No Pictures, Please. Amish Country
Hello again all! After spending two beautiful weeks back in Washington while Justin was home on leave I am back on the Hope and Courage road once more. The past few days have been spent enjoying all Indiana has to offer. Our first stop in Indiana was at the Yogi Bear RV Park where we were just in time to see everyone’s trailers outfitted with Christmas decorations for the camp-wide “Christmas in July” celebration. Other features of the camp include weekly “Care Bear” movie nights, family dances, the daily pledge of allegiance with Yogi Bear himself, and a very strict speed limit of 5 ½ mph. It is quite a circus out here to say the least. It was a lot of fun and the park even gave us a free night of lodging because they appreciated our mission. So now we can say Hope and Courage is proudly supported by Yogi Bear. Sweet.
From there, we made our way to Goshen, Indiana where this current blog is being typed. We have been blessed multiple times over while in this town. For one, we have connected with Vic and Marie Stoltzfus, whose ties to my family run back all the way to Ohio. Vic was the pastor at the Mennonite church in North Lima, Ohio where my dad first started attending Sunday School. Vic really took my dad’s dad under wing and provided him with a lot of resources and support to help him beat his alcoholism. He and Marie also allowed Aunt Jeanne to live with their family while she attended Goshen College. They have been a real blessing to our family for years and have continued to do so by opening up their hearts and home to us yet again.
Two days ago, we had a real treat (especially for Mom and Chanel) when the Stoltzfuses took us to visit some Amish friends on their farm. We only intended to pop in and say hello, but they took a liking to us and insisted we stick around for longer fellowship. We wound up chatting for three hours with Elma and Perry and their two youngest children, Rosemary (12) and Kenneth (10) on their beautifully manicured farm that has been owned and farmed by Perry’s family since the 1860s. We were able to tour their farm, garden, and home; get a ride on a horse and buggy; watch the children ride horses bareback; and Chanel was even given her very own Amish dress to keep. But the best part was the candid conversations we were able to share. We shared with them our mission of the ride while they answered our questions about Amish beliefs, values, and lifestyle. Essentially we determined that we are both after the same thing: doing what is best for our family while glorifying the kingdom of God. Talking with them and experiencing their lifestyle – even if just for a few warm evening hours – was such a welcomed get-a-way from the busy, distraction-filled world in which we typically run around.
One comment made by Perry really stood out to me; he said, “Sometimes I feel as though we – the Amish – contribute nothing to our country. We hear so much about problems and conflicts out there, but it’s as if we do nothing to help.” As much as I respect Perry, though, I completely disagree. They contribute more than they even realize. They teach us to put God and His will above all else. They give us a pure glimpse of what it means to be a family and how vital it is to maintain that. They show us it is okay to slow down. They remind us that the world does not revolve around cell-phone reception towers. They grow some of our finest produce. And every now and the, if you are fortunate enough, they may give you the impromptu three-hour vacation on their lawn that you did not even know you desperately needed. So the next time you pass through Amish country, do not just point out their bonnets and snap pictures of their buggies, shake a hand, make a friend, and learn something. They are not just tourist attractions; they are the calming eye of the storm that is America.
On that note I am going to sign off and dare you to take a cue from our old-fashioned neighbors and do something bold: check your email and weather updates one last time and then shut off your computer for the rest of the evening (and no that does not mean you should just rush to retrieve the internet from your cell phone). I then urge you to go one step further and think about that one person you have really been meaning to communicate with lately and invest your time in him or her. I guarantee you will feel more rewarded doing that than you will winning spider solitaire.
Cheers,
Nicole
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Reflections on the hope and journey message to College Mennonite Church in Goshen and other special times. Bob’s sermon was received with much appreciation, with laughter and with reverence for the God of hope and courage. I read recently, when we lead with weakness rather than strength, we led God be the strong one. God was strong among us and with our youth. Parents sent a letter of appreciation for what happened to the high school folks. And some sermons are what we do and who we are, not just what we say. Bob’s family, Darla, Nicole, Grant and Chanel with dear Aunt Jeanne were a living witness to God’s goodness. I’ve taken many gusts to the Amish farm, Nicole mentioned. Something very special happened there that evening. I seldom have felt such love and appreciation flowing all around the two family circles. Ten year old Chanel and Amish Rosemary are now pen pals. Much more could be said but I just want to say thanks for this ride across America, for the sacrifice involved and the power of overcoming the real handicaps that Bob mentioned: prejudice, addiction, low self esteem or whatever keeps us from being the beautiful people God intended for us to be. Thanks Mortimer family. Just one more thought. It was easy to recognize something precious in people who now have overcome and are nationally known. The right response to their ministry is to get close to someone like I remember Bob’s father was years ago. It isn’t fashionable or cool to have financially stressed (poor) friends who struggle with addictions. But they are the ones who need someone who brings caring and support in the tough times. Vic Stoltzfus, president emeritus Goshen College and friend of the Mortimers. (Grandpa Vic to Chanel)
Happy Birthday Bob!!!!!!!!!! I hope you weren’t trying to keep it a secret that July 25 is your birthday because by writing this I am telling alot of people. I’m at work and I just ate some Tillamook Marionberry Pie ice cream in your honor. Sorry I haven’t written in awhile. Listening to you on the radio and reading the blog is a great way to feel connected to all of you. I think of you all as ambassadors of good will. We miss you guys here at home but what you are doing is so great. Well I better get back to work. Love to everyone.
Reenie
Hey Brother,
Another Golden Year gone by on the road to Glory, and what a road you’re on! Happy Birthday little brother. There’s a verse on my calendar this month that I read every day. Today seems like a good day to share it with you. “They that wait upon the Lord shall renew their strength; they shall mount up with wings as eagles, they shall run, and not be weary; they shall walk, and not faint. Isaiah 40:31 Love you, Tom
I love reading all the blogs of your trip and adventures. It all brings a smile to my face! Our prayers continue to be with you. Thank you!!
Cathy
Oh Bob…forgot it was your birthday. However, you’re in good company because I’ve overlooked everyone else’s birthday so far! I’ll give you tons of hugs and kisses at the Hollis Reunion next weekend…on second thought, we both know that probably won’t happen! See you soon.
Char (oh and Frank too)
Wonderful update! You will not belevie it, but I was in that same trailer park (with Christmas in July) when I took my team across America in 2005! I can still see the place, the wagon driven by Santa and being pulled by a tractor…amazing! Keep up the GREAT work and please remind me where to find an updates schedule (your dad sent one) so I can see if I can at least run into you on the road. Many blessing to you and your wonderful family. Gary Earl
Happy Birthday, Bob. It was a pleasure having you here in Goshen and a real blessing hearing you preach. I love your Handy Cap. I was bring the crew back from Goldenrod Gardens on the Tuesday following the Sunday you were here and you and a couple other bikes were just turning the corner at U.S. 20 and S.R. 13 south of Middlebury. God bless you, God stregthen you, God keep you safe as you continue your journey. You should be arriving in North Lima soon. Blessings, Dan Steiner
I am back home in Wa. now preparing for the marriage of
our son, Robby to Marlo Berger which will take place on
August 9, 2008! As I reflect on the past 10 weeks, I have many memories of the presence of The Spirit as we
interacted with people across this beautiful country. When I think of the 3 hour visit that we had with the loving Nisley family, this verse comes to mind:
Matthew 18:20, “For where two or three are gathered together in My name, there am I in the midst of them.”
I have enjoyed a lot of love and laughter with your family and look forward to joining you again on August 11, 2008. Your Message and Faithful service in the little things has brought many hearts to God and I look forward to supporting you as you continue this Journey of
Hope and Courage across America. Your Loving sister, sister-in-law and aunt, Jeanne
Hello!
Where are you today?! I last checked in when you were in MN and I was hoping to catch you when you were in the north part of Indiana…in the middle-to-western part?!?! But now…you may be well beyond into Ohio!!!
I wrote to Bob a few months back re: a friend who was hit by a train as a 16 year old (after being “overserved” after a wedding reception) and he lost one leg and had some minor, minor brain damage, but is unable to work…is a 40-something who lives with his parents and wanted him to come see you at the nearest church meeting that you would be attending?!!
You are all an inspiration. May God richly bless ALL of you!!! Wishing you safe and meaningful travels!
Sheryl
Where is the Mortimer Team? Need an up date soon. Hope all is well. Herd you all were home for a wedding, true or not? God Bless, later.
Hi Mortimer family!
I want you to know you were a tremendous encouragement to me these last few weeks. I didn’t think I could ride the Courage Classic, but thinking of how all of you are going clear across the nation made we realize that I can do a three day trip. When things got rough, I kept thinking of Bob and Doug cycling along without legs…so you have been the wind under my wings! It is exciting to see how God has led you into so many life changing and life enhancing conversations. We love you and look forward to your coming home!
Marlys
Is this this Sunday your at North Lima, Ohio? We’re thinking of you. God speed, Dan
Hi Darla. Happy Birthday! We trust all is well with you guys. Been looking for another update so we can keep track of where you are. God bless you. Love, Peg and Homer
Happy Birthday Darla,
It was good to see you all, if only for a few hours. We hope your trip back was a smooth one and you’re ready to get on the road again. Say hello to everyone in Ohio for me and I’ll be watching for an update. Love, Reenie
I do not think I’ve seen this described that way before. You actually have cleared this up for me. Thanks!