Feb 10 2009
Between Bird-in-Hand and Mount Joy: Intercourse, Pennsylvania
Tucked between the towns of Bird-in-Hand and Mount Joy lies the quiet little town in Lancaster County, Pennsylvania named Intercourse.
I had a great time in Intercourse last fall, although instead of climbing Mount Joy, we toured around looking at Amish farms, beautiful handmade quilts and trying not to get in the way of all of the Amish buggies on the road.
What was most amazing to me in Amish Country was how the modern and old-fashioned ways collide. On Sunday morning there were so many horse-drawn buggies on the road on the way to church, you got a clear picture of just how many Amish families were living in the area.
I bought a beautiful quilt here in Amish Country and when I tried to tell the woman how great her work was, she blushed, looked down and could barely say thank you. I’m all for not being boastful or too prideful, but the way the women were unable to take any pride in their work at all was a bit unsettling.
After a few days in Amish County, we were ready to come home. I needed my internet connection and other creature comforts. Sometimes I wish things were more simple like with the Amish but then I realize, I’d have to milk cows, sew clothes and be a baby machine for my family. I’m good. Computer, internet, grocery stores, online bill paying, electricity, running water. Really, I’ll keep it.
