7 March 2009
by 
49 CommentsBy
Yes, you read that title right. I’m confessing that I’m living on an Amish farm…. I know you’ve wondered where I have been, why posts haven’t been published as often as they used to, and why the juicing ebooks are still on hold. So, now you know why: I’m living on an Amish farm–without electricity! Amazing, eh?
Check out the windmill. Isn’t it beautiful?
Photo Copyright 2009 HealingwithJuices.com All Rights Reserved
Freelancing is pretty crazy on an Amish farm. Cherish your office. Seriously. 
I’ve somehow managed to get my assignments in on time, though.
If you’re thinking this is crazy, imagine how I feel. I still can’t comprehend the fact that I’m actually living in an Amish-built house on an Amish farm–without electricity. Did I mention there’s no electricity? Well, the Amish don’t wire their homes. There’s no plug ends, no light switches, no super duper easy and convenient modern amenities…
So, here’s the million dollar question: why? Why would I give up convenience? That’s what you want to know, right? Well, haven’t you ever wished you could sit on an old-fashioned porch in the country where life is simple, days are quiet, and you can sip iced tea while watching the clothes gently sway this way and that on a clothes line like your grandmother talked about? Have you dreamt of lessening your carbon footprint, doing more to preserve the environment, and living as green as you possibly can?
I realize this life isn’t for everyone. Some days I think it isn’t for me either. But for all the sacrifices, there are so many more rewards. Yes, sometimes I think I’d pay a million dollars for a plug end if I had that much money to spare. Other days I realize how truly blessed I am and wouldn’t trade my life–missing plug ends and all!–for all the money or anything in the world.
Your second question is probably: so, how do you get on the Internet; how do you charge your laptop? (Okay, that’s TWO questions.) Well, there’s an answer for them, too! For the Internet, I use a USB modem. It is limited, though, so sites like YouTube really gobble up the usage I’m allowed. And I charge my laptop compliments of solar panels and/or wind generators. Yes, the sun and wind are awesome resources and although it still blows my mind that the sun and wind can charge a panel and travel through a wire to then juice my laptop up with energy so I can continue writing and blogging, I’m forever grateful that it’s possible! It’s almost like magic, really.
There you have it. This is my confession. And, let me tell you… Amish living is HARD WORK!! The Amish community is fascinating, though–and yes, horses and buggies are to and fro all the time!
What’s that? You wish you could read even more about life on an Amish farm? Really? You’re in luck! A new blog is in the works. It’ll document day-to-day events on an Amish farm. I’ll be sharing the link here when it’s live. Be sure to subscribe (see the end of this post or the top of the sidebar to your left, for subscription options) so you can be one of the first to visit!
In writing news…
I have a couple of stories in the latest Uncle John’s Bathroom Reader: Uncle John’s Certified Organic Bathroom Reader
by clicking on the previous title, the book below or the link following it.
(Available for pre-order HERE.)
Next time, we’ll get back on topic with raw juices, smoothies, and juice fasting–promise!
Don’t miss out on upcoming posts! Be sure to subscribe to Healing with Juices’ Feed for free updates. You can get free updates to your email as well (sign up here). You’ll receive inspiration, juice and smoothie recipes, and juice fasting tips and encouragement to help keep you motivated toward your ultimate health–and more personal posts about stuff that’s going on in my life.
Thoughts? What’s going through your mind right now? Spill the beans!
Wow, What can I say.
I’m proud, envious, curious.
Good for you, Michele.
I hope the simple life is livin’ large for ya.
George
Tumblemooses last blog post..E-book review: Get an Agent Guide
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Thanks, George! I know you’ll love the “Amish blog”.
You’ll be rolling when you read the posts that are planned.
Yeah, the simple life is quite complicated sometimes, though. It isn’t easy, but it sure is rewarding.
*smiles*
Michele
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Michele,
This is fascinating. One of my clients lived among the Amish (not actually on an Amish farm but in the community and she got to know the Amish and their lifestyle). That was many years ago, but I don’t think their lifestyle has changed in the meantime. My client devoted a chapter in her nonfiction Christian book to living with the Amish, and I found it fascinating.
I’m eager to follow your blog. Hope you will link to it from Writing the Cyber Highway as I’m subscribed to that one.
One question (okay, two): Are you Amish? If not, how do you get to live among them?
Lillie Ammanns last blog post..Books We Love Readers Scavenger Hunt
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Hi, Lillie!
Yes, it is pretty fascinating. Reading this post after I wrote it, I could hardly believe I was reading something about my own life.
That’s pretty neat about your client and her book. What’s the name of that book, if you don’t mind me asking?
Yes, I’ll be sharing the link on my writing blog as well as my website: http://www.micheletune.com. I’ll link to it from all my sites.
To answer your last question(s): No, I’m not Amish. I get to live among them because one of their farms went up for sale. I don’t want to spill the beans just yet (the story is a fun one!) because I’ll be writing about it on the Amish blog. So, for now, I’ll just say that.
It is a pretty rare occurrence for the Amish to sell to the “English” as they call us, though, so I count the opportunity as a major blessing in my book!
*smiles*
Michele
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Living on an Amish farm seems amazing!
But it’s hard to imagine going through life without electricity! I went two weeks without it during Hurricane Ike. But in some way, it does seem better.
No noisy TVs. No cell phone beeps. No neighbor’s house lights blinking on and off. Just peace on a farm! I guess I could use that.
: )
Sometimes we get so caught up in television or ipods and cell phones that we don’t have time to do anything else. I think we all could use that kind of peace from time to time.
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Hi, Ariell!
It is amazing. Yeah, it is difficult at times but it is a lot more serene. Actually, you can have a TV–it’s powered by sun/wind. Isn’t that cool?!
Peace is good.
Thanks for stopping by!
Michele
P.S. And I’m so thankful you made it through Hurricane Ike in good health and in one piece!
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hey if this makes you happy,go for it.
mike golchs last blog post..in the glutton for punishment catagory:
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Michele,
How awesome that you are living on an Amish farm. When I was young, my grandparents had no electricity or modern conveniences on the farm. They did have a car, but no tractors or any of the modern conveniences that we have today. Yes, the work is hard but the lifestyle is fabulous.
Take care and drop me an email when you can. I miss hearing from you.
Blessings,
Mary
Marys last blog post..Happy 175th Birthday, Toronto!
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Thank you, Mike.
Michele
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Hi, Mary!
Yes, it is awesome. I remember my grandmother’s stories about living without electricity, burning coal, and so much more. I know she’d be astounded–and very proud–if she were still alive to see this.
Absolutely, the lifestyle is fabulous.
You take care, too! Hope all is well with you and your family.
Michele
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Don’t they make you work hard? Is this permanent? Miss your updates. Understand why now – no juice.
Cheers!
>> Ted <<
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LOL
Ted, I’m not living with the Amish in their house, I’m living on an Amish farm that an Amish family left and sold–in an Amish community.
But, yes, it’s a lot of work!
Michele
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Hi Michele,
Wow,I have been wondering where you were? Now I know.I bet it is peaceful and very different from city life.I am proud for you. Well take care.God bless you.sheree
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Hi Sheree & Wilma,
Yes, now you know!
It is peaceful and very different. Hard, but serene and such a blessing.
You take care as well!
Blessings,
Michele
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Michele,
My client’s book is On the Wings of the Wind: A Journey to Faith by Patricia Eytcheson Taylor and the Reverend Doctor James C. Taylor. Pat and her first husband lived in the Amish community early in their marriage. The book is available on their Web site: onthewingsofthewind.com and Amazon.
I’m looking forward to your story.
Lillie Ammanns last blog post..Books We Love Readers Scavenger Hunt
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Thank you for the information, Lillie! I’m going to go check it out.
The new blog is in the works, and is being designed, but I’ll update everyone as soon as I can.
Michele
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Wow, Michele! What a fascinating experience you must be having. Sounds like it might make a good memoir someday (“My Life Among the Amish”). My dad actually grew up in Amish country. Though his family is NOT Amish, many of his father’s neighbors and patients were, so they had a hitching post in front of the house, since they had small doctor’s office attached.
Susans last blog post..Guest Post: How to Cure Your Writer’s Block
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Yes, it is quite a fascinating experience.
I’d love to write a memoir someday!
Wow, your dad grew up in Amish country–awesome! I’m not Amish either, but it is so cool to live among them. Yes, there’s a hitching post in front of my house, too. It’ll always stay there to show the Amish they’re welcome.
Michele
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You HAVE to tell me more about your solar equipment – I’m definitely interested!
My brother owns an older Amish farm. He put electric in, but it’s still mighty nice to just sit on a porch and watch the world go by. In fact, of all the regrets from my divorce, losing that porch and the swing are right up there at the top.
Loris last blog post..Self-inflicted Depression
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Yeah, there isn’t quite anything in the world like a porch. A porch swing, or any swing, is just magical, isn’t it? I remember when I was a little girl and the school days were so long. I would fantasize about getting home and going over to grandma’s house (she lived next door) to sit on the swing with her and ponder life together. She had a porch swing and a swing on a frame in the backyard. Those were such nice times! I love strolling down memory lane and thinking of those talks with grandma!
I hope you get another porch swing soon, Lori–you deserve it!!
Ah, the solar equipment. There’ll be details on the Amish blog but there’s solar panels mounted onto the windmill’s frame and then there are two small wind generators mounted on top of the barn. A lot of folks think energy can come from the windmill itself (the Amish one) but that isn’t the case (from what I’ve learned so far). Here’s why: The Amish windmill is set up to pump water up from the ground. Its blades are big and clunky and although they can turn pretty fast, they’re not built smooth and in with such a design to produce power like the other wind generators are.
Anyway, thanks for stopping by. Your visits are always appreciated!
*smiles*
Michele
Micheles last blog post..Open Thread: Do You Paste the Freelance Gig Ad You’re Applying For Into Your Email?
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Michele, you were not kidding, this is one great secret life!
Faith and natural food are big parts of my life and I am fascinated by the simplicity of the Amish lifestyle. They have no debt, make wonderful natural foods, and have a deep commitment to faith, family and community – hard not to admire all of those things. I can’t wait to learn more about the story. What an exciting story!
Karen Swims last blog post..Lazy or Creative?
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Michele! I am SO thrilled to read this! I have always had a love for the Amish community – Amish fiction is some of my favorite. I will so follow that blog when you have it up and running!
May you be blessed with all you’re doing right now. *hugs*
Janna Qualmans last blog post..I Appreciate You
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Karen: No, I wasn’t kidding.
I’ve been living secretly among the Amish–secretly to cyber world, not the Amish. lol They don’t like debt, that’s for sure. And the way they work together and help one another is amazing. The buggies are cool, too. 
It is exciting! (Exhausting, but exciting.) 
Thanks for stopping by!
*smiles*
Michele
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Janna! Thanks! I’ve always been fascinated with the Amish, too. I’m trying to squeeze in time for the Amish blog, so I’ll do my best to share it as soon as I can.
Thanks for visiting!! And I appreciate your kind words.
*smiles*
Michele
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Wonderful post. Beautifully written.
It really does sound intriguing, living on an Amish farm without electricity. I can definitely see that it would have benefits. As well as drawbacks.
But perhaps more benefits.
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Bamboo, thank you for your kind words! I appreciate it.
It is intriguing and difficult and wonderful and hard and a blessing all at the same time. I wouldn’t trade the experience, but it isn’t for everyone.
Yes, lots of benefits!
*smiles*
Michele
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I find this incredible, Michele, and I definitely can’t wait till you launch the new blog. I’d love to follow your Amish adventures. Looking forward to that very much!
Melissa Donovans last blog post..Website Copywriting Special: Order Three, Get One Free
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It is pretty incredible, Melissa. I still can’t believe it myself most days–it’s just that crazy!
I can’t promise a certain date that the blog will be ready but I’m hoping within the next few weeks it will be. I promise to share the minute it’s up and running!
Michele
Micheles last blog post..Flip Ultra Video Camcorder Contest!!!
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I just found your web site, and wow! What a story. It must be interesting to be living truly unhooked. I do cherish my office, but you’ve made me realize just how much!
I’m putting together a raw blog carnival, and I’d love for you to participate! You can learn how to join in here:
http://www.rawfoodswitch.com/raw-food-carnival/
Best of luck with your adventures!
Joyfully,
Nathalie
Nathalie Lussiers last blog post..Eating Raw Food In The Winter
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Hi, Nathalie. Thanks for stopping by! Yes, living like this is truly interesting.
Offices are nice, though. lol
Hmmm… I’ll go over and check out that raw blog carnival. I’ve never participated in a blog carnival (although lots of people have said I should!). So, I may just have to go for it!
Thanks so much!
*smiles*
Michele
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Michele, you never cease to amaze me! What I’m wondering is how this all came about ? What a super experience – and so much to write about!
Beccas last blog post..My Month
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Hi, Becca!
First of all, thanks for the kind words and compliment! Well, actually it’s a really funny story how this farm came about–and I’m sorry but I’m saving it for the launch of the Amish blog. But, it’ll be worth the wait, I assure you!
Yes, so much to write about… I know I’ll have stories to write until I’m a wrinkled, old lady! LOL
*smiles*
Michele
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More than the electricity…which IS a biggie…what about running water for, say, a bathroom? *S*
(I’m such a wimp.)
JenNippss last blog post..Is It May Yet?
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Hey, Jen!
Well, yes, electricity is most certainly a biggie!
As for running water, there wasn’t any in the house when I got here–the Amish don’t put any running water in their homes; they carry water from the well that the windmill pumps up (by wind power). It’s quite an amazing lifestyle. I can’t really explain it all here in the comments but I assure you, the homesteading blog I’m working on will show photos, video, and articles that explain in detail–with a huge sense of humor!!–how all this is happening.
Oh, almost forgot… just to clarify, no, there was no indoor plumbing when I got here–it’s a work-in-progress. I was fortunate enough to inherit a three-seater outhouse, though. Ah, the joys of living green!! LOL
Thanks for stopping by!
*smiles*
Michele
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Hi Michelle,
It’s wonderful you’re new journey. Of course, when I was growing up we just called living like that “poor”.
But, honestly – I grew up around a large Amish community and their values and committment are more than just something to talk about.
The discipline and patience required builds character. Something lacking in today’s hyperconsumer world. Keep us posted and let us know how goat and cow milking goes? (Yes, it’s not as easy as it looks!)
blessings,
julia
julia ward – a BLINDING heart – a writer’s blog – http://www.ablindingheart.com
check out my latest post:
So you want to… Become Stupid
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WOW!!! All I can say is…WOW!!
Maybe… HOW? How is it you found your way to living among the community? You are too cute girl. I bet it’s hard work!!
Good for you!!
Grandys last blog post..Psychic Friend I’m NOT
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Hey, Julia!!! It’s been ages, girl!!! How are you??? Yeah, the Amish community is just super amazing. I still can’t believe how they all come together and work together and accomplish SO much without the convenience everyone else is used to.
Oh, as for now… I’m not milking cows or goats. For one, I don’t have a cow or goat, and also, I don’t drink cow’s milk anyway.
Thanks for stopping by! I just found your comment recently when I went through the spam. I guess it got stuck in there ’cause of the link–sorry!!
*smiles and hugs*
Michele
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Hey, Grandy!
You’re too funny! How? Well, I’m saving that answer for the homesteading blog–but you’ll think it’s worth the wait, I’m sure!!
Thanks for coming by. You’re always a blast!
*smiles and hugs*
Michele
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Hi Michelle,
You should write a book about this new life. I played with Amish children when my mom went to her chiropractor’s office and I always felt so humbled. Their spirits are so full of grace and love.
Your heart will never be the same after this!
As for the milking thing – another benefit of raw juices ay? But I will admit the little goats are fun to play with!
Keep us in the loop!
blessings,
julia
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Hey, Julia!
Yeah, I’m sure someday I’ll write a book about it all–or maybe several! LOL I’m sure there’ll be tons of adventures to share for years to come.
Oh, my heart already isn’t the same. Living like the Amish is quite different–and exhausting!
Yeah, raw juices… Well, I’m going to go ahead and post on here about the new farm critters: a baby goat (that has to be bottle fed) will be joining the other farm critters soon!
I will definitely keep y’all in the loop!
*smiles*
Michele
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Wow, yet another thing we have in common. I lived on an amish farm in my senior year of high school for six weeks. That was long enough for me, thanks. Don’t know if I’d feel differently today or not. I still live within a 20 minute drive of “Amish country” and I sure do enjoy the fresh produce in their farm stands in the summer.
earthmothers last blog post..An Evolving Journey Back To Health
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EarthMother, that is amazing!! Thanks for sharing that tidbit. Wow, you actually lived with the Amish, in their home?? I’m actually living on an Amish farm that they sold because they were moving out of state. Oh, I can’t even wait for those produce stands. Of course, I’ll have my own garden here, too!
Thanks so much for stopping by! I do hope you’ll stop back by…. I’m gearing up for more contests soon!!!
*smiles*
Michele
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WOW. I am envious! That sounds magical. Is the Amish blog up? Do you still live on the farm (since I realize I’m commenting almost a year after this post…)? How does juicing reconcile with all that?
Boy that’s so cool. There are many Amish farms here in upstate NY and I always love driving by them. Thanks for linking my blog, by the way! I look forward to reading more about your adventures.
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Raw Juice Girl Reply:
February 4th, 2010 at 10:43 am
Hi, Kati! Thanks for stopping by.
The Amish blog is not up yet. My apologies for that but it’s on delay as life has taken over. It’s been on the back burner for a while now but we are going to make an extra effort to get it up and running sometime in 2010.
As for juicing, before moving to the Amish farm, I was juicing DAILY. After moving here, I haven’t been able to do that. I have completed a 30-day juice fast since living here – which was quite the challenge because the “kitchen” isn’t a “normal” kitchen and doesn’t have cabinets, counters, etc. We do have water to the house now (yes, there was NO water, sinks, plumbing, etc., in the house when I moved here – the Amish don’t live that way). Anyway, I do have a kitchen sink now but the kitchen is still not in a shape that I’m motivated to juice daily yet. I do feel another juice fast coming on; not sure when I’ll make that happen.
And, yes, I’m still living here.
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