Tuesday, August 24

Amish Country

There are many perks to being married to Shawn.  A big perk is his incredible vacation planning skills.  I make sure laundry is done and suitcases get packed, otherwise I just jump in the truck and trust that Shawn has the rest all under control.  Nice!!

This vacation was tons of time on the road and many nights in all different lodging.  If it was a one night stay... Shawn was sure the hotel had the 2 ever important necessities... a pool and continental breakfast.

When we stayed somewhere for more than one night, Shawn really did his homework.
While in Palmyra, we stayed at a 5 star hotel and spa... so fun.  But I did have to laugh one day when I realized that not one other hotel guest was wearing flip flops... the Callahan footwear of choice.

My favorite places to stay are Bed and Breakfasts.  I prefer the ones that have separate Guest Houses, the perfect blend of having our own space but still the intimacy of staying on someone's property.
Well, Shawn did it again... he found us the perfect B&B to stay at while in Lancaster County, PA.
I loved this property, it was owned by a couple that were former Amish... they still very much enjoy a simple life but they do utilize modern amenities.  They were beautiful hosts!

This is the side yard of the Main House... I hope our weeping willows grow up to be as dramatic as these. 
We stayed in one of the two guest houses, ours was called the guest loft.  The loft was located on the upper level of their carriage house.  Very similar to what our loft will provide in our future B&B.
Below is a picture of this darling window that was part of our loft.  This is the only photo I got of the loft, ugh.
We were all 5 able to fit comfortable in the loft.
The second guest house on the property was this darling guest cottage.
The inside was so tiny but quaint... we took a peak because we just couldn't help ourselves :)
Literally there was a bed, claw foot tub, and two comfy chairs and a small table.  The perfect getaway for a couple... which later that day a cutey couple did arrive to take advantage of this cottage.
And you know what I really loved about these guest houses?  No tvs, no phones, no internet... just peace and quiet and beautiful surroundings... the kids relaxed, they played in the pool, and played games the whole time we were here... I just can't tell you how fun it was!
This sure got me to thinkin'.  What if we built a small cottage out by our future pond?!!  If we built a Guest Cottage out in the pasture by the pond... we could leave it very simple, a good choice for those that truly want to 'escape' from busy lives.  Creative juices are flowing.  Never mind that the B&B is on indefinite 'hold'... this girl can still dream about what may be someday, can't I?
Below is the arbor between the Carriage House and Main House.  It is shaded all day and such a great place to relax.

Ty thought he was too big to climb up into this treehouse... but I barely had enough restraint to not go up there myself! Oh my, oh dear, this was cute!!
While in Lancaster County, we were quite lazy and leisurely picked activities as they peaked our interests.
We did a buggy ride through the surrounding farms.
Amish School House
The Oldest standing Amish Homestead... still has the stone plate that dates 1782.
We also rode a open car train that took us between small towns.
The view of the countryside and Amish farms is breathtaking.  It is a strong point of the Amish religion to keep their properties immaculately maintained... and since we live on a tiny farm ourselves... it was amazing to us how they keep the smallest details of their properties manicured and all that without using modern equipment.
The train makes a stop mid trip at a picnic area and play ground.  So we thought ahead and grabbed picnic lunches from a local deli and hopped off the train to eat and play.
Can I just say that our youngest is nigh impossible to keep shoes on.  The boy has feet of steel, nothing phases him, but it does cause his mom to fuss when the boy shows up barefoot all.the.time!!
We all were pretty exhausted after our site seeing trip.
I love this part of the country.  This is my second time here and I hope to come back many more times.  I just slow down more here than anywhere else we have vacationed... I credit the influence of the Amish people, their slower pace is addictive and I am thankful for it!  
Next Stop :  Home Sweet Home... and I guess it is a wonderful sign that even after an amazing vacation, there is still no place quite as wonderful as our home.

4 comments:

Anonymous said...

What a beautiful B&B! Love their landscape and many textures. I have never been to Amish country, but sure would love to one day. You made it look and sound wonderful!

MrsMama said...

Oooo, what a great place! Sometimes unplugging is just what you need. Love the photos - especially your son sleeping as the cornfields go by.

BTW, I love Amish country, especially Amish cooking! And yes, definitely put a little cabin/shed/KOA Kamping Kabin by your pond and let me know when it's ready for company! :)

Wendy said...

I saw where you commented on Craftaholics Annonymous that you were from Alabama, so I had to come read your blog! :)

Saw an Auburn shirt in this entry, so I thought I'd tell you that if you're ever looking for a good Bed & Breakfast in Auburn...try the Crenshaw House! My parents, my cousins, grandparents, and myself stayed there the night before my wedding and it was FANTASTIC!! :)

Brandie Lyon said...

Thanks for the post. I want to go there someday. I've been reading the Beverly Lewis books for years,and would love to go see the places in person.