Kingdom Equity | July 2022

Our Story WHO WE ARE...

From 2007 to 2012 we, the Millers, adopted our first three children, a preschooler on the autism spectrum and two babies with Down syndrome.

We published our first issue of Plain Values in 2012 to highlight Biblical ministries, share the beauty of adoption, and to cultivate anchored community. In 2018 we welcomed our fourth child in a surprise adoption, this time a baby with Mosaic Down syndrome. We homeschool our family and enjoy working together to grow and raise food on our twelve acre homestead.

WHAT WE BELIEVE...

Our values are plain values, steeped in the rich traditions of yesterday. We enjoy the simple things in life. Gathering eggs from the coop, getting our hands in the dirt to grow food, and cooking meals from scratch. Sometimes we sit around a fire and share life. We strive to walk humbly to strengthen authentic relationships with our families and neighbors. And, yes, we have taken a fresh pie to a front porch and surprised a friend… we didn’t even text them before! We just stopped by, walked up the steps, and knocked on the door! Just the way our grandparents used to do on a Sunday evening. They called it living in community.

We seek to serve our neighbors. Plain Values began with a prayer, hoping to play a small role in connecting a child with Down syndrome to his or her forever family. We have checked that box nearly a dozen times in the last ten years, and we will not stop until the orphanages are empty! We will rest in Heaven!

HOW YOU CAN HELP...

Join us as we pursue a more authentic life. By subscribing to Plain Values, a portion of each subscription goes directly to Room to Bloom, our non-profit that supports children with special needs.

Our Team PUBLISHER

OFFICE

WRITERS

Marlin Miller

Nic Stoltzfus, editorial manager

Ferree Hardy, Serving Our Neighbor

Sabrina Schlabach, quality assurance

Darren Gagnon, Whispers of Hope

Bethany Troyer, bookkeeping

Rory Feek, Roots + Wings

Jan Schlabach, customer service

Shawn & Beth Dougherty, Homestead + Roots

Isaac Hershberger, production manager

Joel Salatin, Confessions of a Steward

Seth Yoder, graphic artist

Ferree Hardy, The Widow's Path

ADVERTISING Matt Yoder, sales advisor - Ohio Aaron Stutzman, sales advisor - Michiana + Pennsylvania

AUGUST AD CLOSE

//

July 6, 2022

Elam Stoltzfus, Our Heritage Jim Zumbo, All Things Outdoors

Plain Values is published monthly by Plain Target Marketing, LLC. Please contact us with any questions.

a: PO Box 201 /2106 Main Street, Winesburg, Ohio 44690 // p: (330) 601- 6106 // f: (330) 601- 4099 // e: reachout@plainvalues.com // w: www.plainvalues.com

This publication and its contents are © 2022, Plain Target Marketing, LLC. Individual copyrighted items, trademarks, etc. contained within are the property of their respective copyright holders. No part of this publication may be reproduced or redistributed by any means without authorization from the publisher. Publisher is not responsible for advertisers’ offers, products, or services, and publication neither expresses nor implies an endorsement.

Join us for Porch Time every third Friday from 1:00pm – 4:00pm During this time window, you’re invited to stop by, enjoy a cup of coffee or tea, sit on the porch, and visit for a while. We'd love to get to know you!

2106 Main Street Winesburg, Ohio 44690 3

JULY 2022

contents

July 2022 // Issue 109

serving our neighbor 13

KINGDOM EQUITY The Story of Three Widows Helping Tens, Hundreds, and Thousands words by: Ferree Hardy One of the saddest things about widowhood is when widows (or widowers) assume that their life is finished and that they will never be happy again. But is this true? Are these dear people doomed to an empty future?

simple living 37

HOMESTEAD + ROOTS First Foods column by: Shawn + Beth Dougherty Generation after generation grew up drinking raw milk, and nothing but good came of it. So why does the USDA ban the stuff?

40

CONFESSIONS OF A STEWARD Chicken Familiarity column by: Joel Salatin You will never find a partner more willing to work harder for less than a hen, but you have to appreciate the desires and habits of this partner.

resources 25

BUSINESS SPOTLIGHT Eden Foods

PLAIN VALUES

10

WHISPERS OF HOPE by: Darren Gagnon

4

6

28

ONE MINUTE WITH MARLIN

ON THE COVER

PRAYERS FOR THE NATIONS

Thoughts and ramblings from Marlin Miller, publisher of Plain Values.

Sunflowers, full of seeds for spreading, serve as a reminder of how God uses us.

This month we take a closer look at the country of New Zealand.

community 31

ROOTS + WINGS Lost + Found column by: Rory Feek Each year Rory makes memories by hosting a father/child campout at his home farm... but this year’s campout came with a memory he’d rather not have made.

47

THE WIDOW'S PATH Points of Light and Life column by: Ferree Hardy I don’t know why God made widows, but I do know they are very important to Him. Perhaps they display God’s glory like stars to a dark world.

history 51

OUR HERITAGE Printing the Ausbund

(part seven)

column by: Elam Stoltzfus We continue the Amish Book Committee story in 1994 when Lancaster Press printed an order of 10,000 Ausbunds.

outdoors 55

ALL THINGS OUTDOORS Whitetail Deer column by: Jim Zumbo I’ve always believed that outwitting a wary whitetail buck on his home turf with no help from technology is one of hunting’s greatest accomplishments.

5

JULY 2022

one minute with Marlin

MY MORNING ROUTINE has become a cherished thing. After I'm cleaned up with a good shave, I head to the kitchen to get our coffee brewing. As much as I enjoy a good cup of coffee, it is who I get to share it with that makes it so inviting. Lisa and I have busy lives, and we have learned to relish our own “porch time.” It has become a sacred place for us to slow down. Five feet from our rocking chairs, we watch the wrens as they feed their chicks and listen to their hungry cries. Over by the fence post, we watch the bluebirds tend to their newborns, too. We don’t deserve the wondrous variety of bird life we are surrounded by; in fact, the other day, I made the comment, “I don’t know how someone can deny a Creator after spending time with such a massive variety of birds, and that’s just from our little yard, never mind mountain and sea birds the world over!”

On the rare occasions that the kids sleep in a bit, this gives us the chance to dive deeper into our life together. Sometimes we read the books we’re in the middle of. Other times we talk, plan, and dream out loud. This sacred porch time is a gift where my wife and I can just be

MARLIN MILLER

publisher, always looking for more friends

together and enjoy each other’s presence.

As always, may you find joy in the simple things. //

The morning view from Marlin and Lisa's front porch

PLAIN VALUES

6

7

JULY 2022

PLAIN VALUES

8

9

JULY 2022

whispers of hope

SUPPORT FOR THOSE WHO FOSTER + ADOPT

IZIDOR'S STORY column by: DARREN GAGNON

IZIDOR BECAME AN ORPHAN not long after he was born. He had a minor physical disability and was placed by his mother into a Romanian orphanage. Eleven years later, after the fall of dictator Nicolae Ceaușescu in 1989, he was the first Romanian orphan to be adopted into the United States. He was one of 170,000 orphans Ceaușescu’s government had been housing in absolutely awful institutions around the country.

After he was adopted, Izidor struggled to integrate well into his family, and by the time he was 16, he left home, never to return. Here is an excerpt from an article in The Atlantic in 2020 that shared Izidor’s story:

Unable to process his family’s affection, he just wanted to know where he stood. It was simpler in the orphanage, where either you were being beaten or you weren’t. “I responded better to being smacked around,” Izidor tells me.

“In America, they had ‘rules’ and ‘consequences.’ So much talk. I hated ‘Let’s talk about this.’ As a child, I’d never heard words like ‘You are special’ or ‘You’re our kid.’ Later, if your adoption parents tell you words like that, you feel, Okay, whatever, thanks. I don’t even know what you’re talking about. I don’t know what you want from me, or what I’m supposed to do for you.” When banished to his room, for rudeness or cursing or being mean to the girls, Izidor would stomp up the stairs and blast Romanian music or bang on his door from the inside with his fists or a shoe.

“I’m not a person who can be intimate. It’s hard on a person’s parents, because they show you love and you can’t return it.”

- Izidor, adopted, former Romanian orphan.

PLAIN VALUES

10

4.

As a father of five adopted children, I can

There is no escape for children living in

appreciate the significance of the early parent/child

an abusive home. They have no options for

relationship. In my children and other children who

getting away from their abusers. This forces

have early adversity, I see that they perceive the

the brain to develop coping mechanisms for

world in a very different way than I do. They were all

survival that will likely persist for a lifetime.

abandoned on some level, cast away in brokenness

5.

and pain. Some of them suffered the wrath of violent

They blame themselves. Children who are developing their sense of self will often blame

parents. Others simply were born to parents who were

themselves when bad things happen. They

incapable of caring for them. These early events in

come to believe that the bad things are their

their lives changed them. It changed how they think

fault and that they are inherently bad.

and feel about others, and themselves.

So what can we do to help children overcome

Early childhood adversity or trauma is not easily

trauma? There are two main ways to help the brain of

overcome. The road may be long and challenging to

a child that has been changed from early adversity. We

navigate, and they will need a lot of help along the way.

leverage our relationship with them, and we set up an

But it is a road worthy of the effort, and I am so glad

environment that will keep their brain calm. Children

God chose to allow me to walk alongside my children.

with trauma — who are wired for survival— need to

“Trauma is not what happens to you. Trauma

know they are safe. Setting up the environment so

is what happens inside you because of what

that it is regulated, calm, structured, and consistent is

happens to you.”

helpful for predictability. Avoiding triggers by keeping their world small and not overwhelming them will

– Gabor Matè

help them stay calm. Building meaningful, consistent, nurturing relationships with them— relationships built

Trauma can come in many forms, but here I want

on trust and shared control— will also help.

to focus on complex developmental trauma. This

The best medicine we have for our children is love.

is relational trauma that occurs early in life. Here

In 1 Corinthians, Scripture defines love this way: “Love

are some fundamental principles to consider about

is patient and kind; love does not envy or boast; it is

developmental trauma: 1.

2.

not arrogant or rude. It does not insist on its own way;

It occurs at a very sensitive time in the

it is not irritable or resentful; it does not rejoice at

development of the brain. In the first few years

wrongdoing, but rejoices with the truth. Love bears all

of life, the brain is forming connections at a

things, believes all things, hopes all things, endures

very rapid rate. The brain is normally wired

all things.” When we love our children the way God

for connectedness with a mother, but trauma

intended us to love them, we can give our children with

causes it to be wired for survival.

trauma their best chance to reach their full potential.

The harm is always personal. It is often

To this end, Lost Sparrows is advocating for

referred to as relational trauma. This causes

the worth and potential of every child and working

children

to empower and equip families, caregivers, and

to

struggle

with

interpersonal

communities to love, nurture, and protect vulnerable

relationships. They are scary to them.

3.

children. //

Premeditated betrayal. The very people that should be loving a child are the ones that are causing the trauma. How does a child attach and bond with a caregiver who is inflicting pain and fear?

Darren Gagnon, along with his wife, Stacey, are the founders of Lost Sparrows. They can be reached at P.O. Box 751, Winona Lake, IN 46590.

Learn more about Lost Sparrows at www.lostsparrows.org.

11

JULY 2022

serving our neighbor KINGDOM EQUITY

The Story of Three Widows Helping Tens, Hundreds, and Thousands words by: FERREE HARDY

ONE OF THE SADDEST THINGS about widowhood is when widows (or widowers) assume that their life is finished and that they will never be happy again. But is this true? Are these dear people doomed to an empty future?

Three of my widow friends wondered this also. At first, not one of them could have imagined the new life ahead of her. But God enabled these three not only to live again, but to help tens, hundreds, and thousands of other MIRIAM NEFF

widows find life after loss too.

What made the change? It had to do with using their “Kingdom Equity.”

Have you heard of it? It reminds me of this verse: “As each has received a gift, use it to serve one another, as good stewards of God’s varied grace.” I Peter 4:10.

How can one person help so many others? Let’s see how Kingdom Equity was the catalyst God used. Maybe you and I have some Kingdom Equity too!

GAYLE ROPER

Miriam Neff –Widow Connection Miriam Neff, founder of Widow Connection, thought her life had ended at age 60 when her husband, Bob, went to heaven in 2006. Miriam had cared for him in their home for three years while he battled Lou Gehrig’s disease (ALS). The final four months were especially intense as his care required the attention of three people full-time, but she would gladly do it

LORI BOHNING

all over again.

13

JULY 2022

Miriam visiting with her friends in Malawi, Africa

In the days after the funeral, she felt desperate for God in a way she’d never experienced before. As she sought God, she learned three things over time: 1. We cannot compare ourselves to others; what God has given us is what we use. 2. God will surprise us; He’ll send us to places no one else has been. 3. We need to take action whether we feel ready or not; God will correct, motivate, uplift, and send the people we need to encourage us.

Those three principles comforted her; they also guided her to take a mission trip to Africa.

There, she heard the concept of Kingdom Equity in a unique encounter with a stranger. In her book, Where Do I Go From Here? Bold Living After Unwanted Change, Miriam described the time in Malawi when a stranger came up to her after a presentation she’d made. “Miriam Neff,” he declared, “you are rich in Kingdom Equity.”

Miriam was curious, and in a quiet corner he explained: “…Kingdom Equity is God’s investment in you. Whether positive or negative, events gift you with wisdom, experience, information, and faith. Everything in your life is a part of God building equity (valuable investment) into your life…”

And then, much to her surprise, the man began to list things from Miriam’s background that he saw as God’s gifts to her.

Miriam wrote, “I rapidly took notes, recognizing that I wanted to add to his list. This new perspective cast a different and valuable light on seemingly ordinary qualities and experiences, and even hardships…”

“Kingdom Equity was a precious concept that pieced together what I had often seen as random events in my past. But they were not random. God was investing in me intentionally. He was building Kingdom Equity…”

She reflected on the shift in perspective she had in Malawi. “Under my mosquito net that night with a feeble bedside lamp… I scribbled as long as my tired body would allow. I looked

PLAIN VALUES

14

again at my scribbled notes from our conversation.

Miriam’s latest adventure has been to pioneer

My final entry quoting his words read: ‘You’ve got

a financial ministry for women. She and her

it, Miriam. Now spend it.’”

daughter, Valerie Neff Hogan, recently wrote Wise

1

Miriam marveled at her Kingdom Equity: the

Women Managing Money; Expert Advice on Debt,

sewing and farm skills she learned while growing

Wealth, Budgeting & More. The proceeds from it

up in rural Indiana, parenting four children (two

will increase women’s financial literacy and reach

of them adopted), having three adopted African-

out to even more widows.

American grandchildren, her adventurous “Let’s get at it” spirit, and even her widowhood. As she wrote these things down, she realized that the

Miriam's books may be purchased online or ordered through

things the world valued, like her college degrees,

local bookstores. The following pertain to widows:

her career as a high school counselor, and her

Wise Women Managing Money

husband’s executive position with Moody Radio

Moody Publishers, 2022

Not Alone

Regnery Publishing, 2017

Where Do I Go From Here?

Bold Living After Unwanted Change

"Kingdom Equity is God’s investment in you.

Whether positive or negative, events gift you with wisdom, experience, information, and faith."

Moody Publishers, 2012

From One Widow to Another: Conversations on the New You Moody Publishers, 2009

Widow Connection, Inc. a | PO Box 242, Lake Zurich, IL 60047 w | widowconnection.com

Network, were not what the widows in Malawi needed. They needed money so they wouldn’t starve. This was her chance to use her Kingdom Equity to help these widows. So Miriam taught them how to sew and earn income with the type of non-electric, treadle sewing machines she had first learned on. They needed the hope of knowing Jesus loved them, so she taught them how to know Him as she had desperately learned.

Today, in addition to taking as many foreign mission trips as possible to help more widows learn to sew, Miriam helps widows through her website, speaking engagements, and on her “New Beginnings” radio spot, which is featured five days a week on 1,200 outlets. She’s also written several books that apply to widowhood.

A group of widows in Malawi that Miriam tought to sew 15

JULY 2022

Gale Roper–Widow's Journey Retreat Every eye was on Gayle Roper as she spoke from her heart to over one hundred other widows. Married 47 years, her husband, Chuck, passed away on July 2, 2010, after almost three-and-a-half years of fighting a rare cancer.

“Life goes on, whether we do or not,” she gently, but matter-of-factly, stated at the Widows Journey Retreat in March 2022. Gayle has hosted these weekend retreats since 2015 at Sandy Cove Ministries in North East, Maryland. At this final session, she swept her arms forward to show how our timeline moves forward even though our spouse is gone. “We can keep looking behind us, focusing on the day our husband died,” Gayle stated as she walked backwards, getting closer and closer to toppling over the edge of the platform. Then she spun around to walk forward, adding, “Or we can walk forward toward the end of our timeline where he awaits.” She created a perfect illustration of a widow’s letting-go dilemma. When we don't let go, when we focus intently on our loss, it’s like we look backwards and can’t see what’s ahead.

Sandy Cove Ministries is located on the Chesapeake Bay between Philadelphia and Baltimore. The retreat draws widows from all over the USA. In talking with Gayle about it, we discovered her gifts of Kingdom Equity stemmed from writing.

"In college, she met her husband, Chuck Roper, and they married in 1963. She taught school before they adopted their two sons."

PLAIN VALUES

16

Writing came as a surprise to Gayle. In college,

“For years, I was defined by a four-letter word—

she met her husband, Chuck Roper, and they

'wife.' I was part of an indivisible pair. Chuck and

married in 1963. She taught school before they

Gayle. Gayle and Chuck.

adopted their two sons. But after the boys came

Now there’s only Gayle, and I’m not certain

along, she stayed home with them and took to

who she is supposed to be.”2

writing novels. What started as a hobby blossomed

Widows understand. “She validated everything

to over sixty books in her name, several prestigious

I felt, and that was so healing,” one widow told me.

awards, and speaking at writer’s and women’s

Gayle gave words to the overwhelming emotions of

conferences for the past fifty years.

widowhood and paired each page with Bible verses

Gayle’s books are some of my favorites. I'm

that affirm and impart hope. A Widow’s Journey is

charmed by her humor, quick wit, and colorful

a wonderful book to give to a widow.

settings like the Jersey shore or Lancaster County;

For Gayle, Kingdom Equity played out in

her romances and clever mysteries always provide

a three-stage sequence: her journal writings

satisfying, surprising endings.

became A Widow’s Journey book, and the book led

Yet there’s one book that touched thousands

to Widows Journey retreats. It also showed up in

of widows, and it was the hardest one to write — A

God’s order to her life:

Widow’s Journey: Reflections on Walking Alone. For

•

two years, she journaled short pieces about her

God gifted her to touch hearts with her writing.

feelings as a widow. They weren’t always pretty, but they were always honest.

17

JULY 2022

•

God gifted her to organize large events.

Having been involved with writer’s conferences

Gayle Roper’s books may be purchased online or ordered

most of her life, including directing one

through local bookstores. The following pertains to widows:

at Sandy Cove, she asked this: “Why not

A Widow's Journey:

a conference for widows? We need each

Reflections on Walking Alone

other!” When she approached the Sandy Cove

Harvest House, 2015

directors about hosting a retreat for widows,

Most recent novels:

it was at the same time they were wondering

Shadows on the Sand

how they could serve widows! Her history with

Seaside Seasons–Book Five

them was a perfect match.

•

Sea Change

God gifted her with a vast network of writers

Gayle also writes exclusive books for Annie’s Fiction

and speakers she’d met over the years.

(subscription book service): anniesfiction.com

Inevitably some had become widows. Being

Widow's Journey Retreat

able to draw from this well of friends enriches

•

the widow’s retreat for everyone.

March 3-5, 2023

God also gifted her with her two adopted

p | 800-234-2683 -or- 410-287-5433 w | sandycove.org

sons, her experience as a school teacher, some training in Biblical counseling, and now—even

Gayle Roper

widowhood. She puts these Kingdom Equity shares to use at every Widows Journey Retreat

e | gayle@gayleroper.com w | gayleroper.com

and every time she writes or speaks. Save the date, March 3-5, 2023.

Lori Bohning–Beauty From Ashes But what if you’re not an award-winning writer? What if you’ve never organized a weekend retreat? What if you’re not able to travel to help widows in other countries, or speak on the radio, or give advice about finances? What if you can hardly deal with yourself?

“If the dictionary used pictures as definitions, my face would be next to the word “BROKEN,” said Lori Bohning of New Braunfels, Texas.

In 2011 her husband, Rob, was diagnosed with medullary thyroid cancer. Married seven years at the time, they were living in California, and Rob was given three months to live. He survived for three years instead.

During Rob’s battle with cancer, they moved to Texas to be closer to better treatments. “We needed to move even though neither we nor our finances were ready.” But God helped – their house

PLAIN VALUES

18

(above) Lori Bohning with her son, Andrew, and daughter, Olivia (left) Old photos of the Bohning family before Rob passed away

in California sold as soon as they listed it. Then, upon hearing about their need, complete strangers who are now dear friends offered them a house to

Braunfels.” A hymn from her childhood often

rent in New Braunfels.

played in her thoughts, “Here I Am.” It was her prayer to God, asking Him to use her.

One year after the move, Rob died. Their two

She knew she couldn’t do it by herself, though.

adopted children, Andrew and Olivia, were ages

So she bravely phoned Stand In the Gap, a ministry

nine and six.

“I didn’t know how to do all this. And after

for orphans, widows, and prisoners in Oklahoma.

Rob died, I was on the other side of my worst fear

When Lori asked how she could start a widows group

because he died even though I really believed God

in her town, “Coffee * Cake * Conversation” was what

would heal him.”

she was told. They suggested she make fliers to post

Seeking help, Lori drove over an hour away to a

around town announcing a get-together for widows

widows group in San Antonio. “They were speaking

with the day, place, and time for “Coffee * Cake *

my language.” She saw that she could learn from

Conversation.” They also told her that the crucial

each lady in the group, especially those who’d been

point of the meeting would be to ask the women,

on the journey longer than she.

“What do you need in a widows group?”

Over the next two years, something stirred

At the first meeting, each woman told her

deep in her heart. “I hope that the Lord can use

the same thing: “We need connection with other

me. I want to start something like this in New

widows.” Thus started the first “Beauty from Ashes”

19

JULY 2022

widows group. They’ve been meeting monthly ever

that God never left us; He never left me. I learned

since. When a hospice grief therapist once visited,

that the most beautiful things come out of a storm,

she told Lori, “I’ve never been in a group like that,

and the most power comes from the middle of a

with women who have so much faith and hope.”

storm. It’s absolutely sacred. God used my darkest

Such encouragement fuels Lori to branch out

moments to bring me into something I would have

in other ways. As a Life Forming Growth Coach,

never dreamed of. He taught me that joy isn’t the

she helps people meet their goals and overcome

absence of suffering but the presence of God. He

various challenges. She’s written a curriculum

taught me to not be afraid to pray, ‘Thy will be

to make it easier for widows to start their own

done,’ because it’s the safest place to be. I often

“Beauty from Ashes” groups. Through her website,

asked, ‘Why me, God?’… Now…I ask, ‘Why not me?’

she leads online “Hope for Widows” groups. The

and embrace the gift and battlefield. I have learned

New Braunfels widows stay connected outside of

that His power is exalted in my weakness.”3

their meetings by group texts on their cellphones.

They check on each other, ask for prayer, and plan informal get-togethers and lunches.

Beauty from Ashes

Do you see that Lori, too, is rich in shares of

e | info@beautyfromashesministry.com w | beautyfromashesministry.com

Kingdom Equity? Her most loved gifts from God are her two adopted children. She remembers that even as a child she had a tender heart for the

Lori Bohning Coaching

lonely, for the outsiders, and that too, is her gift.

Widowhood also forms a gift. On her website,

e | loribohning@gmail.com w | loribohning.com

she wrote, “When you go through the battlefield, you understand and see life differently. I learned

Miriam Neff, Gayle Roper, and Lori Bohning did not volunteer to help widows, but once they experienced widowhood themselves, they had to do something. How can only three widows help thousands of other widows? By using their Kingdom Equity. Life did not end the day their husbands died; instead, their new lives began.

What shares of Kingdom Equity do you hold? What gifts has God given you? Some of us have five or ten; others have two or three. Some might have only one. But it’s not what gifts we have, it’s what we do with them. May we all view our Kingdom Equity like Miriam did, writing in her journal in Africa, “You’ve got it…now use it!” // [1] Neff, Miriam. “Kingdom Equity.” Where Do I Go from Here, Moody Publishers, 2012, p. 140-141 [2] Roper, Gayle. A Widow’s Journey: Reflections on Walking Alone, Harvest House Publishers, 2015, p. 6 [3] Bohning, Lori, “About Me,” Beauty from Ashes - Hope for Widows of All Ages, 2022, beautyfromashesministry.com/about/

To learn more about widowhood, order a copy of Postcards from the Widows’ Path—Gleaning Hope and Purpose from the Book of Ruth. It’s a gentle, biblical guide for widows that has many saying, “This is the best I’ve ever read!” Mail a check for $14.99/copy (paperback, 248 pgs.), along with your address to: Ferree Hardy, 76 Grace Ave., Ticonderoga, NY 12883. Please allow 2-3 weeks for delivery. Free shipping for all Plain Values readers!

PLAIN VALUES

20

21

JULY 2022

PLAIN VALUES

22

23

JULY 2022

resources EDEN FOODS

PLAIN VALUES

24

Joyous Revival – Whole Grain INTEREST IN NATURAL FOOD has encouraged a revival of traditional whole grain as food. After dozens of studies, the medical community and U.S. government now acknowledge the irrefutable role of whole grain in health. Appreciation of whole grain food is common again and growing. Real organic whole grain, like Eden Flakes and Eden Müesli are the the correct choice. Whole grain causes the body to burn 25% more calories. They have excellent protein, fiber, vitamins, minerals, antioxidants, and phytonutrients. Whole grain subdues appetite by satisfying longer and more thoroughly. Whole grain assists one’s weight management, while encouraging well-being, mental acuity, and longevity.

Vital Integrity Preserved The three components of whole grain, bran, germ, and endosperm come with multiple phytonutrients necessary for their complete utilization. Real organic Eden Whole Grain and Cereals are pure, natural whole grain. Their vital integrity is maintained.

Thoughtfully grown, handled, and prepared, the nutrients of Eden Flakes and Eden Müesli are encouraged and protected. A full spectrum of rejuvenating nourishment provides needed protein, complex carbohydrates, fiber, vitamins, minerals, and a bounty of critical phytonutrients with essential fats in proper amounts. Eden Flakes and Eden Müesli porridge provide bracing energy, setting a positive tone and a centered disposition for any day.

25

JULY 2022

"Eden Whole Grains and Cereals are delicious, satisfying food."

Enormous Benefit

teeming with processed foods, whole grains are not

Real organic whole grain like Eden Whole Grain,

commonly incorporated into the daily American

Cereals, and Flours are the finest, best tasting whole

diet; but, by omitting them from your diet, you could

grains from sustainable local supply.

be missing out on some enormous health benefits.”

Elizabeth Gilbert of Tufts’ School of Nutrition

Scientists at USDA’s Human Nutrition Research

Science and Policy writes in Tufts’ Nutrition Daily,

Center at Tufts University say, “Whole grain helps

“Grains have received bad press recently. But only

regulate blood sugar by slowing down the conversion

claims that refer to refined grains, those that make

of complex carbohydrates into sugar. In fact, low-

up the ‘typical’ American diet can be considered

glycemic index food such as whole grain reduces

true. When you’re talking about whole grains, it is a

hunger and can help to control weight.” Scientists

whole different story.” She further states, “Not only is

at the Agriculture Research Service completed a

refined grain devoid of several beneficial nutrients,

study of more than 2,000 people and concluded, “At

but its glycemic index is increased. The glycemic

least three or more servings of whole grain everyday

index measures the rate at which carbohydrates

could reduce the chances of developing metabolic

break down into sugar once they are eaten. When

syndrome — a condition marked by a combination of

you eat a food with a high-glycemic index, you will

abdominal obesity, high blood pressure, poor blood

feel less full than if you ate a food with a lower

sugar control, low HDL ‘good’ cholesterol, and high

glycemic index. But not all grain products have a

blood fats.”

high-glycemic index. Whole grain products, and

Dietary Guidelines of the USDA suggest three

other high-fiber foods, have low-glycemic indexes,

servings of whole grain per day. They instruct, “Shift

whereas refined grains, grains that are stripped of

food intake patterns to a more plant-based diet

fiber, have high-glycemic indexes. When grains get

that emphasizes vegetables, cooked dry beans and

‘bad press,’ it is based on the premise that they have

peas, fruits, whole grains, nuts and seeds.” Even the

a high-glycemic index.”

FDA recognizes whole grain — “Diets rich in whole

Elizabeth continues, “Examples of refined grain

grain and other plant foods, and low in total fat,

products made with flour include white breads and

saturated fat, and cholesterol may reduce the risk

other baked goods, pasta, crackers, and white rice,

of heart disease and some cancers.” Also, “Low fat

the majority of a ‘typical’ American diet. Do not be

diets rich in fiber-containing grain products, fruits,

fooled by ‘enriched’ grain products; enrichment

and vegetables may reduce the risk of some types

replaces most of the B vitamins like thiamin, niacin,

of cancer, a disease associated with many factors.”

and riboflavin, but it does not replace any of the

Ancient Whole Grain

fiber, vitamin E, or trace minerals from the bran

PLAIN VALUES

lost in the milling process. Eating a variety of plant

‘Ancient’ or ‘forgotten’ grains are whole grains

foods like fruits, vegetables, and whole grains is an

that have remained free of synthetic genetic change

important part of a healthy diet and offers numerous

for thousands of years. Some of them are millet,

health benefits. Unfortunately, people tend to

quinoa, buckwheat, wild rice, spelt, rye, Khorasan

think of grain as a grain, rather than a refined one

(kamut) wheat, amaranth, teff, einkorn, barley,

versus a whole grain. And since supermarkets are

and emmer. Their ancient appeal is again being

26

appreciated as an excellent, beneficial choice.

Ancient grains are more delicious, nutritious, and strengthening than modern hybrids.

All grain is whole grain when it grows in the field. A husk and hull protect it from weather and pests. They remain whole grain capable of sprouting after dehulling, as long as its bran, germ, and endosperm are intact.

Whole grain is at the core of human nourishment and development.

Gluten free whole grain is common, some are brown rice, millet, quinoa, popcorn, buckwheat, and oats. Others, like spelt and Khorasan (kamut) wheat, have more tolerable water-soluble gluten.

A well-balanced complete food, whole grain has all that is needed for optimal utilization.

Quick Cereal – Hot or Cold Five organic Eden whole grain cereal flakes — Kamut®, Oat, Spelt, Rye, and Brown Rice — are U.S. organic family sourced. They are hulled and rolled into quick cooking versatile flakes. Eden Whole Grain Flakes make excellent porridge after a short cook time. They excel as a thickener for soups and stews, in or on salads, baked goods, granola, and many recipes. For delicious variety, try mixing the different flakes and adding some dried fruit for amazing porridge, superbly satisfying any time of day.

Organic Eden Müesli is three whole grain flakes, three dried fruits, and two seeds — Oat, Rye, Spelt, dried cranberries, raisins, wild lowbush blueberries, roasted pumpkin seed, and raw sunflower seed.

Eden Cinnamon Müesli has organic cinnamon for taste and added value. Müesli is an any-time-of-day meal in Europe, good hot or cold, in baked goods, added to other cereal, and in smoothies. Eden Flakes and Müesli are

kosher and pareve.

Eden Whole Grains and Cereals are delicious, satisfying food. Mix them with other whole grain, when cooked add them to bread dough, pancakes, waffles, and baked goods. Excellent in soup, stew, casseroles, grain dishes, with vegetables as a side or entrée, and they make superb porridge. Quick cooking, they are highly versatile. //

27

JULY 2022

PLAIN VALUES

28

29

JULY 2022

community ROOTS + WINGS

PLAIN VALUES

30

column by:

rory feek

EACH SPRING for the last couple of years, I’ve hosted a father/

lost + found

child campout for the dads and kiddos from the schoolhouse to spend an evening together, getting to know each other better, and making memories that will hopefully last a lifetime. But this year’s campout, held this past Saturday night, came with a memory I’d rather not have made.

We have an ‘outdoor learning area’ behind the schoolhouse nestled beneath some trees, where there is a big fire pit and tiered

July 2022

wood seating. We all met there at 5 pm and began setting up our tents. The kids were so excited. Most of them had been talking about it for weeks, my eight-year-old daughter Indiana included.

"THIS YEAR’S CAMPOUT, HELD THIS PAST SATURDAY NIGHT,

There were six or seven dads this year and about twice as many children, as siblings joined in as well as an extra friend or two.

Eventually, we had a good number of tents all neatly arranged on top of the little hill. And soon a fire was roaring and camp chairs, large and small, were lined all around.

Ms. Rebecca, who runs the school, had purchased most of the

CAME WITH A

food and snacks for the event. Once we got a table or two set up near

MEMORY I’D

visited while the children ate their fill and ran endless circles around

RATHER NOT HAVE MADE."

the camping area, we grilled hotdogs on the fire, and the grownups the area. It was exciting to just be with their friends and their fathers—outside of school. We decided to all take a hayride around the farm before we broke out the s’mores. So, all the children and the dads loaded onto a make-shift hay wagon (without hay), and I climbed into the side-by-side, put it in gear, and we were off.

Rory Feek is a world-class storyteller, songwriter, filmmaker, and New York Times best-selling author. As a musical artist, Rory is one-half of the Grammy-award-winning duo, Joey+Rory. He and his wife Joey toured the world and sold nearly a million records before her untimely passing in March 2016.

31

JULY 2022

We drove around the cemetery where Indy’s Mama’s wooden cross stands, passed the pond, and by the cows grazing in the high grass. Then we crossed over to our neighbor Ted’s farm (who was sitting beside me — his little girl MacKenzie goes to our school too). We made our way through his big field and down a long winding lane he’d recently cut through the woods. The kids were all so happy and screaming every time we hit a big bump. Though it sometimes felt like chaos, I think the dads were having a good time, seeing the pure joy their kids were experiencing, spending an evening outdoors with their friends.

When we got to the end of his property, we found no option to loop back, and had to turn around on the big road in front of Ted’s and my houses. After making sure no cars were coming, we pulled out onto the road and, in less than a minute, turned back into our driveway to finish the long loop and hayride.

As we pulled back into the camping area and the kids all streamed out of the trailer, we dads made our way back to the chairs around the campfire to break out the marshmallows and chocolate bars. I heard some of the children calling for Indy. At first, I thought they were all just playing a game, but their yelling for Indy got louder, and I could see that the kids were spreading out, searching the playground and barnyard. I called over ten-year-old Magnolia and asked what they were doing.

“We’re looking for Indy, Papa,” she said. “She didn’t come with us on the hayride.” My heart sank.

“What do you mean she didn’t come with us?”

I asked.

“She didn’t want to come, so she stayed here,” she answered. “But we don’t see her anywhere.”

She hadn’t even finished talking, and I was running toward the farmhouse calling Indy’s name.

"At first, I thought they were all just playing a game, but their yelling for Indy got louder..."

PLAIN VALUES

Inside there was nothing but quiet and the clock ticking. I checked the concert hall. Nothing. I called into the backfield and towards my sister Marcy’s house. Nothing.

“Where would she have gone?” I kept asking myself. “It’s not like her to go off on her own anywhere.” We had been gone about 30 minutes or

32

As I drove in closer to open the gate, an interior light inside the car came on, and I saw Indiana in the passenger seat and a stranger driving." so, and she may have gotten bored or scared and

As I drove in closer to open the gate, an interior

tried to find us.

light inside the car came on, and I saw Indiana in the passenger seat and a stranger driving.

I jumped in the side-by-side again and took off

“Thank God!”

across the field, retracing our drive, getting more and more nervous because the sun was setting,

I ran around and opened the passenger door. I

getting darker by the minute. Finally, I stopped near

could see that Indy was scared and confused. And

the pond and called for her, terrified as I scanned

she could tell that her Papa was upset.

“She was in my yard…,” the lady said. “She said

the water… “Oh God no…” No answer. I drove past

she had lost her family.”

the cows and to the big shop and bus barn, still

The stranger went on to tell me that she lives

calling her name. Still nothing.

I pulled into my sister Candy’s house and ran

on the other side of the road, in the third trailer

inside, calling for her. My nephew Dalton had been

over the hill and that Indy had crossed the big road

at the fire when we left, and he said he’d seen her walking around the barn but didn’t know where she was. I was back out the door and speeding back

Kids gathered around Indy after she was found

toward the camping area. By now, all the fathers and children were calling for her, spreading out and looking for her. Some of the kids were crying. I drove to the milkhouse to see if she might be there. And just as I pulled up, some headlights pulled into our driveway. It was a black car that I didn’t recognize.

33

JULY 2022

to get to her house. I thought of all the cars and big trucks that speed down the highway at 55 mph or more, and my heart sank again.

"Any other time I would have told Indiana not to ever get in a car with a stranger. However, it is because she did that all is well. How strange life is... how beautiful, difficult, and wonderful it is."

Then she added, “I recognized who she was and brought her home right away.”

I thanked the lady again and again, pulled Indy into my arms, carried her into the milkhouse, and sat down on the couch. With tears in my eyes, I just held her tight, so thankful that she was okay.

“I’m sorry Papa,” she said. “I lost you.” Her face was all dirty, partly from her adventure but also from crying. Her little legs were covered in red scratches where she had been walking through the woods and tall brush to find us.

“Where did you go?” I asked her, knowing that it would be hard for her to explain all that happened and why.

I held her close to me for a long time… neither

campfire. And when we did, she stayed close by

of us speaking. We were both so thankful to be

my side, eating her s’more and watching the other

reunited and the world felt right again.

children play. The other fathers didn’t say much—

“I tried to find you!” she cried. And that was

they didn’t have to. They all knew how frightening

about all she could tell me. Even though she can talk

the experience was and would’ve been if it were one

really well, she’s still learning to remember, tell full

of their kids.

stories, and process bigger thoughts.

A half-hour later, Indy was in our tent, and

“You found me, honey,” I said, running my

all the children gathered around — loving on her,

fingers through her hair. “You found me.”

asking questions, and telling her how happy they

We stayed in the milkhouse together for about

were that she was back. Soon she was asleep, and I

a half-hour before rejoining the group around the

sat by the campfire alone, reflecting on the evening and the memory we’d made and how scared but thankful I was.

Indy and Rory at dinner the next evening

I thought of my wife Joey’s cross that I had driven by twice, what she would think, and how I am in charge of our little one now. I am not just her father, but I’m her lone protector and parent.

As the evening and the fire dwindled, I thought of the kind stranger who brought Indy home. Any other time I would have told Indiana not to ever get in a car with a stranger. However, it is because she did that all is well. How strange life is... how beautiful, difficult, and wonderful it is.

I’m going to spend some time thinking about our camping trip next year. I’m sure we’ll still do it again, but next time I’ll be more careful, more cautious… and much more thankful than ever. //

rory PLAIN VALUES

34

simple living HOMESTEAD + ROOTS

PLAIN VALUES

36

h +r

FIRST FOODS

homestead roots

column by: SHAWN + BETH DOUGHERTY

THE CORN IN THE GARDEN is already more than knee high, and the first planting of green beans has been gracing the supper table for more than a week, so summer must really be here. And even with temperatures in the high eighties making heat-wrinkles over the county road, we're happy to see the seasons advance. Pretty soon there will be okra to fry and tomatoes in our salads. The land is generous in July.

Out in the pasture, this year's crop of calves are no longer the slim, fawn-like creatures they were in April and May. Weeks of rich milk have turned them into sturdy steers and heifers, grazing alongside their mothers in the tall grass, or finding cool spots at the edge of the woods when the sun gets high. Various shades of fawn, brown, and black, their coats are satin-sleek, shiny against the deep green forage. They are the very picture of health.

There is something right about living here, tending these animals and plants, and being rooted in this place. We have never really been interested in taking vacations to Disneyland anyway, which is a good thing, because people who keep livestock can't usually go away for long periods. If you seriously propose to grow your own food, you have to be there to take care of things. Farmers don't find it easy to travel.

This time of year that's no real sacrifice, though. Cooler mornings are good for working in the gardens, and in the heat of the afternoon we might swim in the pond, or pick raspberries at the shady wood's edge. When there's a surplus of milk, we'll make cheese. Curds form quickly in hot weather, the probiotic lactobacilli in the milk being most productive when they are warm.

The biological activity of raw milk­­­ — it comes from the cow complete with its own array of beneficial biota — is one of the things that make it such an ideal health food. Ironically, that same probiotic energy makes people worry about consuming it. Is it safe to eat or drink something that ferments so readily? In fact, doesn't the USDA warn specifically against consuming raw milk?

37

JULY 2022

Dairy Dangers?

It's funny that this perfect food has a less than perfect reputation. Raw — that is, unprocessed — milk is a controlled substance in most of the fifty United States. You can't buy it in the store; in fact, the federal government bans raw milk sales across state

"Generation after generation grew up drinking milk, and nothing but good came of it."

lines. If raw milk is so good for you, why does the USDA issue warnings against drinking it?

Honestly, back when we started milking our own cow, this question really wasn't on our minds!

The sweet milk we were bringing into the house in buckets every day was delicious, and the children were so glad to have all they wanted to drink. Our grandfathers, we knew, had kept dairy cows and raised their large families on farm milk, and we intended to do the same.

Pretty often, though, we encountered people or opinions that were adamantly opposed to our plans.

We discovered that in the state of Ohio, if raw milk was consumed in our house, we were supposed to have a sign, prominently displayed, warning people of this dangerous practice. Yes, really! We knew that medical professionals looked with disapproval on raw milk being given to children. Even some friends and family voiced concern over what they considered an unnecessary risk for our family.

All this over a food that had been in the human diet for thousands of years! How could there be such a difference of opinion?

All Milk is Not Equal Historically, human beings have been consuming

PLAIN VALUES

stored milk in vessels of wood, clay, or even hide.

They weren't worried about germs, but they knew how to use milk in dozens of delicious ways to feed their families year-round, with every stage of fermentation having its appropriate uses. Generation after generation grew up drinking milk, and nothing but good came of it.

So why does the USDA ban the stuff?

Well, a lot has changed in the past couple of centuries, including the ways we keep, feed, and milk dairy cows. Big modern cities require food to be shipped from farther than ever before. Dairies may be literally a thousand times bigger than they used to be. To produce so much milk and ship it long distances, we've turned to mechanization.

Today milk is moved by pipeline, stored and shipped in enormous tanks, and sits on supermarket shelves for days or weeks. All of the large-scale systems used for this work are in near-constant use: when cows are being milked two or three times a day, you can't take apart all the equipment between milkings and give it a good scrubbing.

Instead, it is flushed with caustic chemicals and very hot water to kill residual bacteria.

raw milk since the domestication of the first

But this doesn't always work. Biofilms inside

ruminants. Back then there were no stainless steel

milking equipment can be home to pathogenic

buckets or microfiber filters; our great-great-greats

biota — 'bad bugs,’ like listeria, campylobacter, and

e.coli. Even if these critters didn't make you sick, they would ferment your milk, 'spoil' it, before you had a chance to drink it. This is why store milk is pasteurized, and the same story explains why our home-produced, home-consumed milk doesn't need to be. When the USDA warns against drinking raw milk, they aren't talking about ours.

Actually, clean raw milk from a cow that eats the food God intended for her – grass – is one of the most perfect foods in the world. Think about it: milk is the sole food God created to feed His baby mammals, new life to be nourished by their mothers' dedicated and loving care. Milk's nutritional profile makes it a whole food; its naturally present probiotics make it a health food, too.

So it's no wonder one of our favorite things about keeping a family cow is all the wonderful milk it makes available on the family table. We drink gallons of milk every day, and dairy products like cheese, butter, yogurt, and sour cream feature largely in every meal. And while it is delicious, milk isn't just a food for us; it's a health regimen.

Work of Our Hands Milking time is a quiet, peaceful time on our farm. The cows go willingly into the stanchions. If we are offering a treat of hay or kelp, they tuck in.

We scoot our stools up close; with the zing of milk into the bucket, the sweet smell of fresh milk rises into the air. There's plenty of time to think.

Why do we choose to live this way? One reason, and a very real one, might be that it just feels right.

When we sit down to milk our cows, we're continuing a line of human endeavor that has blessed people for thousands of years, and we're using the same tools, the same methods folks have always used, because they work. We don't need anyone's permission. We don't need electricity or fuel. Just us, the cow, and a few moments of peace.

We're grateful that God has made things this simple. //

Shawn and Beth Dougherty live in eastern Ohio, where their home farm is 17 acres designated by the state as ‘not suitable for agriculture’. Using grass as the primary source of energy, they raise dairy and beef cows, sheep, farm-fed hogs, and a variety of poultry, producing most of their food, and feed, on the farm.

39

JULY 2022

Confessions of a Steward JOEL SALATIN

COLUMN BY:

Chicken Familiarity THINKING LIKE AN ANIMAL is not always easy, especially if you’re trying to think like a chicken. In this article, I want to dive into one of the single biggest tensions in raising farmstead egg-laying chickens, and it all stems from chicken psychology.

Like all animals, chickens love routine. Temple Grandin, maven of animal psychology, points out that animals live only in the moment. Yes, they have memory, but they have no datebook. They never think about what they need to do tomorrow.

Everything is about instant gratification. No chicken ever said to her friends, “That hen is kind of small and timid; let’s let her have first go at the feeder, and the rest of us ladies will join her later.” You’ll never see that happen. Henpecked is a real thing. Sometimes they eat each other. Animals always eat dessert first, they are all bullies, and they don’t like change.

Temple Grandin says chickens live so much in the moment that they notice the color of your hat. They notice what kind of clothes you’re wearing and your facial demeanor. Let it be established once and for all: chickens like routine. They don’t like different. To be sure, they like chasing down worms in different locations, but they’re not thinking about their

PLAIN VALUES

40

simple living CONFESSIONS OF A STEWARD

41

SEPTEMBER 2021 JULY 2022

location; they’re just eating worms. The moment

familiarity. This is an issue on smaller acreages

is all that matters. While chasing down worms,

that want to free-range laying hens. Hens offer

the hen may have no idea she just traversed a

a boatload of benefits, from eating kitchen

hundred yards. Sometimes they look up with

scraps to eliminating ticks to spreading cow

a lost look. Most of the time, they want to be

pies. No farmstead animals work harder to

where they are accustomed.

provide benefits than the lowly hen. But she’s

What that means is that laying hens want a secure home. They don’t want you to change

curious, explorative, and always looking for something familiar.

coops on them. They want to sleep in the same

She’ll range out a couple hundred yards

spot every night. They want to lay eggs in the

from security. Normally that security is where

same place every day. Don’t confuse routine with

her feed, water, nest, and sleeping quarters

discovery. Chickens have unlimited time to scope

are. In smaller acreages, that range might

out new and interesting places. That’s part of

easily cover the entire property. That’s when

their routine, just like a goat’s routine is trying

familiarity kicks in. If you use portable housing,

to figure out a more clever way to escape.

like what I call an eggmobile, you can’t move it

If a chicken finds an enjoyable place, she’ll return to it. Exploration then gives way to

far enough away from familiar territory to keep the hen from going back to a favorite spot.

I do not recommend eggmobiles for acreages under 50 because you can’t move them far enough into unfamiliar territory to break their

"No farmstead animals work harder to provide benefits than the lowly hen. But she’s curious..."

routine of returning to something familiar. And you know what familiar is. It’s the lawnmower handle, the porch swing, the tractor steering wheel. Those are nice roost spots. How about nests? That secluded spot in the corner of the hay barn or a bundle of twine in the back of the shop attract the exploring chicken, and suddenly she has a new familiar routine. The change

42

of nesting place means her caretaker now enjoys an

diaper), and let her generate some world-class compost

Easter egg hunt every day instead of finding the eggs

for you. If you want a portable coop on such a small

in designated nest boxes.

acreage, that’s fine, but it certainly isn’t necessary.

Whenever someone asks me about chickens laying in

While I’m a fan of portable infrastructure, it offers

fencerows and non-nest box areas, I know immediately

diminishing returns at extremely small acreages because

they aren’t moving the eggmobile often enough and

having an all-season design is nearly impossible in most

far enough to make sure that the hen’s only imposed

climates. A portable coop with two feet of snow on the

familiarity is with the eggmobile. If she can wander to

ground isn’t fun to service, and the hens are cold and

a more familiar spot, she’ll gladly walk quite a distance

unhappy too. A nice warm stationary coop with deep

to return to her routine.

bedding is a far more comfortable place to ride out a

This creates a conundrum for the smaller acreage

blizzard. Rather than building a summer and winter coop,

outfit. How do you get the chicken benefits without

therefore, you can put all your effort into one good coop

losing the chicken to her own desires? You can’t afford

strong enough to withstand raccoons and bobcats, snug

to hunt for eggs every day. And you can’t have the hen

enough to handle a blizzard, with enough ventilation

picking any old predator-prone sleeping area. But you

options to be comfortable on hot summer days.

do want her scratching through dung, eating ticks,

If your acreage is larger than five, you probably

grasshoppers, and crickets.

want a summer portable and a winter stationary shelter.

If your acreage is extremely small (under 5 acres),

We use hoop houses for winter. Now back to familiarity.

you don’t gain much advantage from having a portable

Regardless of what you decide to do, by only letting the

coop. Situate a Fort Knox secure coop as near to the

birds out one day a week you can force familiarity on

middle of the acreage as possible, use deep bedding (I’ve

their coop and not compromise it with other momentary

described this in previous columns as a carbonaceous

attractive places. They won’t be exploring around the

43

JULY 2022

PLAIN VALUES

44

farmstead often enough to develop an attraction

wherever you’re working. That adds joy and

to a spot of their choosing. At one day a week,

friendship to your chores.

you can guarantee nonfamiliarity, and the birds

The reason I belabor all this is because small

will return to their coop, whether stationary or

acreage folks more often fantasize about their

portable, to lay eggs and sleep.

50 hens sanitizing their farmstead, scratching

Since our farm is more than 50 acres, we

and pecking contentedly. The reality is lots

can move the eggmobile hundreds of yards at a

of predation, hunting for eggs, and sitting on

time, every day. They never get familiar enough

chicken poop left at the porch swing. Fantasy

with their area to establish a new nesting spot or

turns to frustration, and that’s not good for

new roosting area. They constantly return to the

anyone.

eggmobile because that’s the only thing in their

Numerous entrepreneurs, bless ’em, have

awareness that meets the familiarity criteria.

designed and built little eggmobiles for folks

If we parked it for a week, we’d start having to

with a handful of chickens to enjoy. The heart

hunt for eggs. And we’d find chickens in strange

is sincere, and the desire is good. But chickens

places. By moving it long distances, every day

have a mind of their own, and our fantasies

or two, the birds are in completely unfamiliar

don’t always conform to their realities. On large

surroundings and that keeps them within sight

acreages, eggmobiles work beautifully, and the

distance of the eggmobile because they don’t

chickens’ functionality is a true asset to the

feel comfortable settling down anywhere else.

farming operation.

The key is familiarity. The only way I know to

But small acreages present unique challenges

achieve unfamiliarity in a small acreage situation

and opportunities. Limiting familiarity is the

is to deny the birds access. If you limit their free-

best way I know of to get all the benefits chickens

range exploration to one day a week, they don’t

offer without the negatives. You will never find a

have enough time to get familiar enough with

partner more willing to work harder for less, but

their surroundings to be lured away from their

you have to appreciate the desires and habits of

coop, whether it’s stationary or mobile.

the partner. Providing a working habitat where

When chickens find favorite spots, like your garden or the barn, they definitely want to

you, the ecology, and the chicken can win is the goal. Happy clucking. //

return to it the next chance they get. They aren’t stupid; they know where enjoyable scratching and picking are. They know where the big grubs are. In returning to those spots, they aren’t

Joel's Upcoming Speaking Events

thinking about vulnerability to predators. They aren’t even thinking about vulnerability to rain.

All they care about is the moment.

I recommend the weekly release coincide

July 18-19

Polyface Farms (Intensive Discovery Seminars)

with your outdoor work. Small flocks are more

July 22-23

Polyface Farms (Intensive Discovery Seminars)

vulnerable to aerial predation than large flocks.

July 29-30

Polyface Farms (Intensive Discovery Seminars)

Plan to release the birds to your small acreage

August 25-26

Polyface Farms (Stockman Grass Farmer)

when you’re working in the garden or splitting

Sept. 3

Hudson Valley, NY (Health with Max Kane and Abby Rockefeller)

October 7-8

Front Royal, VA (Homesteaders of America)

October 18-19

Jackson, MS (Stockman Grass Farmer Business School with Steve Kenyon)

October 20-21

Jackson, MS (Stockman Grass Farmer Marketing School with Sheri Salatin)

firewood. You can listen for that telltale hawk screech, and you’ll enjoy the chickens as company. They’ll surely want to hang around

Joel co-owns, with his family, Polyface Farm in Swoope, Virginia. When he’s not on the road speaking, he’s at home on the farm, keeping the callouses on his hands and dirt under his fingernails, mentoring young people, inspiring visitors, and promoting local, regenerative food and farming systems.

45

JULY 2022

community THE WIDOW'S PATH

Light Life Points of

&

column by: FERREE HARDY

PLAIN VALUES

46

DID YOU READ my feature article this month, Kingdom

Cassiopeia, and other familiar constellations stand out

Equity: The Story of Three Widows Helping Tens,

in July. As much as I enjoy star-gazing, though I don’t

Hundreds, and Thousands? I hope you could envision

really know why God made stars, do you?

Miriam Neff, Gayle Roper, and Lori Bohning as I do. If

I don’t know why God made widows, either, but I

so, in your imagination you’d see the first three stars of

do know they are very important to Him. Perhaps they

a velvety, black summer night — points of light that catch

display God’s glory like stars to a dark world. Not only

our attention. And the longer you looked, the more stars

Miriam, Gayle, and Lori — but many other widows (maybe

you would see — the tens, hundreds, and thousands of

YOU!) are a light to their family, church, friends, and

people they’ve reached.

community.

If you are out in a field or camping up in the

There are many surprising glimpses in the Bible

mountains on a moonless night, you’ll behold a breath-

about how important widows are to God. When I was

taking spectacle — countless stars begin to fill the sky

widowed, it never occurred to me that God had so much

dot by dot. Our Milky Way galaxy is a wispy white cloud

to say about widowhood.

of them; the Big Dipper, the Teapot, the “W” shaped 47

JULY 2022

"When I skimmed the sixty-six books listed there, I found only two that were named after women— Ruth (a widow) and Esther (an orphan)."

Did you know that widows fill the Bible from cover

I was amazed — no wonder we need to take care of

to cover, from Genesis to Revelation? You may recall that

widows and orphans! What would happen if we took

Jesus told the parable of the persistent widow or that He

Ruth and Esther out of the Bible? The Bible would be

pointed out the widow who gave her offering of two small

INCOMPLETE! Our world would be incomplete without

coins. He told his disciples that her coins were worth

widows and orphans. It’d be like the night sky without

more than gold because she gave everything she had.

stars.

These stories reveal the very real ways that widows are

The Matthew 1 genealogy of Jesus Christ names five

examples to us even today. I’ve met persistent widows,

women, which is very unusual. (Usually, it’s only men

haven’t you? I’ve met widows who have given everything,

who are named.) These women were Tamar, Rahab,

haven’t you? These ladies shine like stars to me.

Ruth, Bathsheba (the wife of Uriah), and Mary, the

But God mentions widows many more times. In fact,

mother of Jesus. Did you know that most of these ladies

at the founding of the nation of Israel and the beginning

were widowed?

of the church, God instructed His people to pay special

There were dozens of other women who could

attention to them. A very unique command is in Exodus

have been listed in that genealogy, but these five were

22:22, “Do not take advantage of the widow or the

women who refused to become victims. They are forever

fatherless.” This was foundational for Israel! Widows

honored in the lineage of Christ. Did you know that Mary

were important to God!

was most likely a widow? We never read a word about

In Acts 6, we find that widows are the very first

Joseph after Jesus was twelve years old. Did Jesus lose

group that the first Christians were directed to minister

his earthly father when he was a teenager? Scripture

to. Widows were important to God!

doesn’t tell us for certain, but it’s certainly something

And then there’s the book of James. Although

to consider.

it’s towards the end of our Bible, it was actually the

Do you know who the first woman was to tell the

first book written in the New Testament. James 1:27

world about the birth of Jesus? She was an 84-year-old

commands Christians to “look after orphans and widows

widow named Anna. (Luke 2:36-38) Anna’s husband

in their distress…” Widows are important to God!

had died after they’d been married for only seven years.

Why do you suppose widows and orphans were

I’ve found that, like Anna, older widows have amazing

pointed out like that? Have you wondered why we should

stories that the world needs to hear.

look after them? I have, and I recently discovered a clue

Besides the resurrection of Jesus Christ, did you

right on the “Contents” page at the beginning of my

know there were other people raised from the dead in

Bible. When I skimmed the sixty-six books listed there, I

the Bible? The first account in the Old Testament was

found only two that were named after women — Ruth and

when Elijah the prophet raised the son of a widow; the

Esther. Did you know that Ruth was a widow and Esther

first resurrection in the New Testament was when Jesus

was an orphan?

raised the son of a widow. Isn’t it interesting that in

PLAIN VALUES

48

both cases God extended this miraculous power to help

see her faithfulness and undying love. Oh, that we all

a widow first? Someone might object and say that God

could love our spouse like that! When a widow tells us

should have raised the husbands! But God knows what

that life is short, we hear that it must be cherished. She

widows need most.

might claim a broken heart at first, but her message

In the early days of the church, the Apostle Peter

might be that it’s an open vessel that God will fill; we see

raised someone from the dead, a woman named Tabitha,

that eventually, He does. When she has a need, we have

also known as Dorcas. We don’t know if she was a widow,

an opportunity to reach out and obey God. And when

but we do know that she helped widows! (Acts 9:36-43)

a widow smiles or sings, we know that Heaven is filled

Once again, that tells me widows are important to God.

with the glory of her courage and joy, like points of light

You might say that widows are my heroes, and I

in the velvety night.

would agree. When I see widows, I see women whom

What can you learn from the widows you see? Each

God has singled out. They are chosen, beloved, and

one shines important light and life to our dark world.

honored. God takes the weak things of this world to

Don’t miss out on the spectacular view. //

confound the wise.

Each widow has a message that God tells the world

Until next month,

ferree l

through her. She might never know what her message is, or know that she even has one. But that’s because it’s for others to see. Where she sees only loss, we can

To learn more about widowhood, order a copy of Postcards from the Widows’ Path—Gleaning Hope and Purpose from the Book of Ruth. It’s a gentle, biblical guide for widows that has many saying, “This is the best I’ve ever read!” Mail a check for $14.99/copy (paperback, 248 pgs.), along with your address to: Ferree Hardy, 76 Grace Ave., Ticonderoga, NY 12883. Please allow 2-3 weeks for delivery. Free shipping for all Plain Values readers!

49

JULY 2022

history OUR HERITAGE

PLAIN VALUES

50

PA RT S E V E N

Printing the Ausbund ORIGINS column by: ELAM STOLTZFUS

“There are well over two thousand Amish congregations in the Eastern Time Zone, holding worship services every second Sunday. Since the Loblied is always the second of three opening hymns, the beloved, ‘praise song’ is being sung in over a thousand congregations at the same time. An hour later, the song will be repeated in several hundred congregations in the Central Zone, and then, another hour later, in the few congregations in the Mountain Zone.”

– Leroy Beachy, Unser Leit, Anabaptist Historian

WE CONTINUE the Amish Book Committee story in 1994 when Lancaster Press printed an order of 10,000 Ausbunds. The process was nearly seamless for half a century: Lancaster Press printed the books, and they then loaded the printed sheets on pallets and sent them down to the bindery plant in Philadelphia. Here, the pages of the Ausbunds were folded, trimmed, and bound in its classic black cover.

A few months later, in 1995, Lancaster Press had finished with the printing and John Esh placed his routine call to the bindery plant in Philadelphia as he had done for many years. But there was a problem:

(left) The Amish Book Committee record book from June, 1945.

51

JULY 2022

there was no answer on the other end of the line.

Only dead silence. A wrinkle of confusion spread over John’s brow, “What could be happening here?”

This was not a good time for a supply chain disruption. At 10,000 copies, this was the Amish Book Committee’s largest Ausbund printing to date. Demand was high, and orders flowed in from all over the United States and Canada — churches needed new books. Since John Esh couldn’t reach the bindery plant in Philadelphia over the phone, he and Eli King (also on the Committee) hired a driver to take them down to Philadelphia to find out what was going on. When they arrived, they were surprised at what they found: the plant was closed, lights off, locked, and not a person around. No one at the plant had notified the Committee or the printing press that they were going out of business!

"He was amazed at the network for the distribution of the German books, the number of books printed, and how this was all managed solely by the Amish Book Committee."

adjusted their clocks for Daylight Savings Time!

Everyone laughed at this miscommunication, the tension in the room eased, and the men began their business negotiations.

After the men returned to Lancaster, Eli King

Rinck listened carefully as the men explained

reached out to Christian Aid Ministries for help.

their operation and he tried to understand their

They referred him to HeuleGordon Inc., based out of

needs. He was amazed at the network for the

Grand Rapids, Michigan.

distribution of the German books, the number

The president and owner of HeuleGordon, Rinck

of books printed, and how this was all managed

Heule, agreed to fly out to Pennsylvania to meet with

solely by the Amish Book Committee. Rinck agreed

the Amish Book Committee, and they scheduled

to print all six books that the Committee handled:

a day and time to meet. When Rinck walked into

the Heilige Shrift (Holy Bible), the Neues Testament

the room, the Committee was seated around the

(New Testament), the Unparteyisches Gesang-

table. With an unhappy look, one of the Committee

Buch (Impartial Songbook), the Gebet Buch (Prayer

members said to Rinck, “You’re an hour late.” Rinck

Book), Lust=Gärtlein (collection) and the Ausbund.

was confused — how could that be? He wondered if

The

first

order

of

business

that

Rinck

he accidentally wrote the wrong time down on his

recommended was to do a high-quality scan of all

datebook. What a bad way to start a first business

the original books and convert the text to a digital

meeting — an hour late! After some discussion and

format for future printing. By doing this, mistakes

consulting their watches, Rinck found out that he

in the books that had been reprinted for years could

didn’t have the wrong time — the Amish had not

be fixed digitally on a computer.

PLAINPLAIN VALUES VALUES

52 52

Since 1995, HeuleGordon Inc. (later Inner Workings) has printed every edition of the Ausbund and continues to do so today. Let me share some numbers with you: from 1995 to 2021, 308,166 Ausbunds were printed in Grand Rapids, Michigan. With each Ausbund weighing just under 1.2 pounds, the combined weight of these books is roughly 184 tons!

If you were to load all these Ausbunds printed over the last 26 years into trailers hauled by semitrucks (the average semi can haul forty tons), it would take five near-full trailers to haul these books!

In 1940, you could buy an Ausbund for about 30 to 40 cents. At this time, farmers made around a dollar an hour—sometimes less. I was born in the late ‘50s, and we only had one Ausbund for our family. I assume that is all my parents could afford as dairy farmers.

Over the years, wages continued to go up, and now the average wage is $25.20/hour. In 2021, you could buy an Ausbund for $6. Today I own twelve Ausbunds, and a few of them have been in the family

The printing of a new batch of Ausbunds

since the early 1800s. As print costs and gas prices rise, the Committee will have to adjust the price of books in the future, so they aren’t losing money publishing them. However, the Committee remains determined in their goal: keep the Ausbund and other German books affordable for Plain communities.

Next month I will conclude this eight-part series, Origins of the Ausbund. This final story will be about my personal experience witnessing the 2021 Ausbund printing, from driving the Amish Book Committee to Grand Rapids, Michigan —where we saw firsthand how the books are printed — to watching the books be delivered at a Committee member’s warehouse in Lancaster County, Pennsylvania. // Sources: History of the Amish Book Committee; Benuel M. Fisher, research and preface; Stephen F. Stoltzfus Journal & Ledger; Jacob Lapp, financial ledger; Interviews with Eli King and Rinck Heule.

Elam Stoltzfus currently serves as caretaker of the Nicholas Stoltzfus Homestead in (Berks County) Wyomissing, Pennsylvania. In 2018, he traveled to Germany to document the history of the Stoltzfus family—this research is documented in German Lutherans to Pennsylvania Amish: The Stoltzfus Family Story. To order a copy of this book, you can mail a $30 check to Elam Stoltzfus, 1700 Tulpehocken Road, Wyomissing, PA 19610.

53

outdoors ALL THINGS OUTDOORS

PLAIN VALUES

54

—

ALL THINGS OUTDOORS

—

Whitetail Deer column by: JIM ZUMBO

OF ALL THE BIG GAME animals we hunt in America, the whitetail deer is by far the most popular, no close second, with around 11 million hunters pursuing them each year. Whitetails are found in many habitats, from mountainous country in the northeast, mountain hollows and ridges in the south, farmlands and ranches across the country, and the heavily timbered mountains of the northern Rockies. Except for a few states, they can be hunted close to your home, perhaps in your backyard. In many towns and even large cities, they’re known to be pests where they help themselves to landscape shrubbery and vegetable gardens.

55

JULY 2022

Practically every big game hunter who is reading

The whitetail deer is considered to be the wariest of

this has hunted whitetails unless the hunters live in

all big game animals in the country. Their eyes, noses,

areas in the west where they don’t exist. Deer have a

and ears can detect danger a long way away, as many

huge following and fill hunters’ dreams and fantasies,

hunters will attest. Only the savviest woodsmen can

especially in the weeks and days before hunting season.

stalk close to a deer without being discovered. Whitetails

Many hunters plan and scout year-round, planting food

have the ability to outsmart people so often that hunter

crops, putting up trail cams and tree stands, and trying

success can be dismal, even in places that hold decent

their best to pattern deer movements. Other hunters

populations of deer.

aren’t so inclined and simply slip on their hunting boots,

When I was a youngster growing up in upstate New

grab their gun and hunting license, and wander about

York, whitetails were scarce. Usually, only the most

in the woods when hunting season arrives.

persistent and skilled hunters scored. In those days,

Whitetails have come a long way since America

hunters donned heavy red and black checkered wool

was colonized. Prior to pre-European settlement, there

clothes and headed to the woods with their favorite

were an estimated 35 million whitetails in America. As

carbine. There they’d sit on a stump or log near a fresh

pioneers established homesteads and drastically altered

deer trail and hope something would come along. Most

deer habitat, numbers of whitetails began dwindling.

of the time, nothing happened. Many hunters didn’t

Market hunters took a huge toll, and deer were killed for

understand the keen senses of whitetails. If the wind

their meat as well as their hides. Consequently, there

was wrong, the deer would smell the hunters first. If the

were only around 300,000 deer in the country in the

hunter moved, the deer would hear him. If the hunter’s

early 1900s.

clothing stuck out like a sore thumb, the deer would see

The plight of the whitetail and other big game

him. But the hunter who understood deer behavior and

animals was recognized by early conservationists

senses would be the one to consistently fill the freezer

such as Teddy Roosevelt and others who sought

with venison.

to protect these animals that were thought to be

Nowadays, hunters have camouflage clothing to

headed towards extinction. Game laws were enacted,

help blend in with the woods, though orange-colored

habitat enhancement was encouraged, and whitetail

garments are required in most states during firearm

numbers slowly began increasing. Many organizations

seasons because of safety concerns. Archery hunters,

were formed to assist in these wildlife management

on the other hand, are allowed to use camo clothing

programs, and today we can boast of having some 30

because of the need to get closer to the quarry. A

million whitetail deer in America.

variety of scents that mask human odors are available,

PLAIN VALUES

56

either to spray directly on your clothing or to use when washing your hunting clothes. Some hunters paint their faces with colors that match the woods or wear camo masks. The bottom line is to hide as best you can so the deer won’t see you before you can react and raise your firearm or bow.

Tree stands are immensely popular in whitetail country. In fact, many avid hunters have numerous stands in their hunting areas. The effectiveness of being up in a tree is obvious. You’re not only in an elevated position where you can observe the woods below you, but you’re also positioned in a place where deer are not accustomed to looking for danger. They seldom look up, unless you move or make noise. Typically the thermals will waft your scent well over the deer so they can’t smell you.

In my younger days, tree stands were not yet invented. I remember nailing some boards in an old white oak tree about eight feet off the ground. Soon, enterprising individuals began manufacturing tree stands that were called “self climbers.” You could actually slide this contraption in such a way with your arms and feet to inch your way up a tree. Unfortunately, these early climbers were fraught with problems and many hunters unintentionally slid rapidly down the tree, which caused some sores, scrapes, and blood loss,

is typically used. Because deer inhabit very brushy

as well as a promise to never attempt climbing with that

country in many regions, hunters typically hunt from

confounded thing again.

a man-made elevated stand. Corn is spread around

But, as in everything else we use, better and safer

either by hand or automatic feeders, and hunters await

models were invented. Then came the more permanent

the arrival of the quarry. Without the stand and corn,

tree stand, which was a seat and a floor that was solidly

deer would be extremely difficult to see in the brush,

attached to the tree with strong cables. A ladder is

and the necessary harvest of animals would be difficult

attached where you climb up into the stand and wait for

to achieve.

There are other ways to figure out where whitetails

your deer to show up.

Placement of these stands is of paramount

are likely to walk. Bucks will make “scrapes” where they

importance. Obviously, they need to be located where

paw the leaves, twigs, and grass off a small area about

deer are most likely to travel. Since whitetails walk on

as big as a truck tire or a bit larger. The scrape is always

trails, the hunter must determine which trails are the

made under a “licking branch,” which is low enough

most used. Enter the trail camera, simply called a “trail

for the buck to lick and rub his nose and face scent all

cam,” which is attached to trees and aimed at the trails.

over it. This ritual is performed before and during the

When hunters aren’t present, even at night, the cam has

breeding season. It marks the buck’s territory and also

a sensor that can detect motion and will take a picture

lets females know that he’s around. Hunters will observe

of the animal. The hunter can then determine which

these scrape areas from a tree stand.

Bucks also create “rubs” by vigorously rubbing their

tree stands will offer the best chances to score a deer.

In Texas, which has the most whitetails of any state

antlers on a sapling so hard that the bark is peeled off.

with more than a million animals, a different technique

This is also done before and during the breeding season.

57

JULY 2022

When fresh scrapes and rubs are located in one small

Whitetails can also be attracted to your stand by

area, that’s a good sign that at least one buck is visiting

calling them in with a “grunt.” You blow into this call

that spot on a regular basis.

and make sort of a “blat” as a buck would. This imitates

To me, one of the most exciting ways to hunt

a challenging sound and is often rewarded with a buck

whitetails is to “rattle” them in. This technique involves

running towards you to see what new buck is making

taking an antler in each hand and twisting and banging

that sound.

them together loudly, simulating two bucks fighting.

Because whitetail deer are so immensely popular,

Whitetails commonly fight each other, pushing, shoving

hundreds of books and countless articles have been

and heaving each other about with their antlers. It’s a

written about how to hunt them. This article barely

sight to see, and sometimes this battle can be deadly

scratches the surface, but you don’t really have to be a

when bucks lock their antlers so tightly together they

veteran woodsman to score. All it takes is enthusiasm and

can’t break free. Many bucks are found dead with their

patience. You don’t need to have all the high-tech gadgets,

antlers locked together, and it’s not uncommon to see

and I’ve always believed that outwitting a wary whitetail

one of the bucks dead and the other still on its feet.

buck on his home turf with no help from technology is

Very often, deer with locked antlers are freed by game

one of hunting’s greatest accomplishments. //

wardens or individuals who risk injury by cutting one of the antlers with a saw, allowing the animals to run Jim has hunted all fifty states for deer, has fished in most states, has hunted elk

free. The sounds of rattling often entice bucks to run

in all the major western elk states, and has hunted on four continents. He worked

toward you to check out the “battle.” They want to see

for fifteen years as a forester, game warden, and wildlife biologist. Jim draws on these experiences for his monthly column “All Things Outdoors.” For more

who’s in their territory and if a doe in heat might be

information, visit www.jimzumbo.com.

around, only to be collected by a hunter in a tree with a pair of antlers that duped the curious buck. Rattling had its origins in Texas, where it remains extremely popular today. The technique is now used wherever whitetails

PHOTOS FROM OUR READERS

are hunted. I’ve used it in eastern Canada, New England,

We'd love to feature hunting, fishing, and other outdoor photos from our readers in Jim's column. If you'd like to contribute photos, please email them to: reachout@plainvalues.com.

Be sure to include information about your photos so we can include captions.

the Midwest, the South, and Western states. I’ve found that in some places, it takes persistence and patience to draw a buck in.

Hank Schlabach, husband to Sabrina from Plain Values, and his son after harvesting two impressive whitetails on back-to-back days.

PLAIN VALUES

58