Sisters by the Sea, page 9
Gel food coloring
Boil sugar, water, and corn syrup in small saucepan over medium-high heat. Heat mixture to 300 degrees, using a candy thermometer to check temperature regularly. Remove sugar mixture from heat, add extract, and mix well. Add 2 to 4 drops of food coloring to sugar mixture. Use rubber spatula to thoroughly mix in coloring.
Carefully transfer mixture from saucepan into liquid measuring cup. Allow bubbles to settle for about 15 seconds. Use caution when transferring, as sugar mixture will be hot.
Carefully pour sugar mixture into shell-shaped candy molds. Allow sugar to harden at room temperature for 30 minutes. Once hardened, carefully remove sugar seashells from candy molds. If desired, spray seashells with color mist to add a shiny coating. Edible glitter adds a nice touch to shells as well.
New York Times bestselling and award-winning author Wanda E. Brunstetter is one of the founders of the Amish fiction genre. She has written over one hundred books translated into different languages. With over 12 million copies sold, Wanda’s stories consistently earn spots on the nation’s most prestigious bestseller lists and have received numerous awards.
Wanda’s ancestors were part of the Anabaptist faith, and her novels are based on personal research intended to accurately portray the Amish way of life. Her books are well read and trusted by many Amish, who credit her with giving readers a deeper understanding of the Amish people and their customs.
When Wanda visits her Amish friends, she finds herself drawn to their peaceful lifestyle, sincerity, and close family ties. Wanda enjoys photography, ventriloquism, gardening, bird-watching, beachcombing, and spending time with her family. She and her husband, Richard, have been blessed with two grown children, six grandchildren, and two great-grandchildren.
To learn more about Wanda and her books, visit her website at www.wandabrunstetter.com.
The Beach Ball
JEAN BRUNSTETTER
Chapter 1
Sarasota, Florida
Violet Lambright walked barefoot along the sidewalk to the mailbox on this fall day. Living for over a month in sunny Florida had its perks. Unlike being in the country back in Middlebury, Leora and John lived in a smoothly paved neighborhood. Back home, Violet had to walk down her parents’ rough gravel driveway, trying to avoid stepping in horse droppings. Even though many other Amish lived here in Sarasota, none of them used horses and buggies for transportation, as they were not allowed on the roads.
After opening the mailbox, Violet thumbed through the mail. Most were addressed to her sister and husband, but Violet spotted a letter in the mix addressed to her. She clenched the envelope. It’s from Mom. I don’t really want to read it—especially when she brings up that I need to come back home.
The last time Violet spoke on the phone with her parents, they’d pressed her on the issue of her staying true to her Amish roots. She had listened to Mom and Dad express their desires for her life, but her own heart didn’t line up with their intentions.
Coming back into the house, she set the mail on the kitchen table and went to the refrigerator for a bottle of water. It was wonderful living with her sister and brother-in-law. They were both easy to get along with, their home was nice, and it was just a few blocks from the village of Pinecraft. Violet had her own room, and she had a new job at a restaurant that was affiliated with the one back home where she’d worked previously.
Getting to the restaurant each day appealed to her, just like back home. Violet had driven her car from Middlebury to her sister’s place in a couple of days. Her parents weren’t happy about her driving by herself and had tried to talk Violet out of it. But she stood strong in her decision to go it alone and follow the path she’d chosen. She had her cell phone to use, which she’d gotten while living at home. Violet reassured her folks that she’d leave messages on their answering machine, updating them on the progress of the trip. She’d had an uneventful time driving to Florida, and that was fine with Violet. Her compact car had done well, and she was able to carry most of the items she had wanted to bring from home to live with her sister.
Since moving to Florida, Violet had worn more English attire and put her Amish dresses in the back of the closet. It felt nice to wear shorts and a cute shirt, like most of the Floridians did.
Leora was patient with her, and she appreciated it. Violet enjoyed the freedom of trying out new things, like painting her fingernails and wearing makeup. She had thought about getting her long hair redone into a short new style. Violet made an appointment, but she just had the split ends removed and then had the stylist add some subtle highlights. She enjoyed her fresh, new look, and Leora said she thought it looked nice too.
Today was her day off from work, and the weather was gorgeous. It was easy to take all of this nice, warm sunshine for granted. Back home, the weather was cold, and they’d get good rains this time of the year. Violet didn’t miss that weather at all. It was hard to beat living here.
She had been helping her sister with washing the clothes and setting the clean, damp loads in a laundry basket for Leora. Her sister was out back hanging up the laundry Violet had washed. She would be coming in soon to see the mail on the table. And since she knew the situation between her parents and Violet, Leora would probably urge her to read the one from Mom.
Violet thought back to when she’d dated a fellow in Middlebury who wasn’t Amish. When her mother and father found out, the relationship was discouraged. So Violet broke up with him and dated one of the Plain boys. But she craved her independence and not having to be told how her future should be.
She set the water bottle down and stared at Mom’s letter. I’d like to live my life the way I want and experience the freedom to choose.
Leora came in with the laundry basket and looked toward the table. “I see we’ve gotten some mail.”
“We did, and one is from Mom.”
“Is it to you or me?”
“It’s for me.” She frowned. “I have a feeling she’ll start up again about my life choices.”
Leora hurried to the laundry room, then returned without the basket. “She loves you and only wants what’s best for you. Just open the letter, and you’ll know what Mom has to say.”
Violet watched her sister head out of the room. I know Leora is right, but it doesn’t make this any easier.
Violet sighed, reluctantly opened the letter, and took a seat on the sofa.
Dear Violet,
I hope you, Leora, and John are doing well. We’re all doing fine here. Are you enjoying your new job? I hope you’re not working too hard. What have you been up to? I’d like to know what’s new. Dad and I miss you. The last time we talked, things seemed a little strained. We wish you’d reconsider and come back home. There are some real nice Amish fellows here and in the nearby communities. We wish you’d give joining the church more thought.
I’ll try to change the topic now. I’ve been sewing a couple of new dresses and can’t wait to wear them. Your daed is busy working at the machine shop and seems to never run out of work, which is a blessing. When he’s home having some downtime, he’s often out on the front porch watching the birds in our yard.
We got a new kitten. It’s cute, has tiger stripes, and is a blackish-gray color. She came from a litter of the neighbor’s cat down the road. Since we could use a new barn cat around here, it seemed fitting.
Your sisters are doing well and keeping busy. They asked me to say hi and said that you need to stay in touch with them.
Take care, and please give what I’ve said about coming back home and joining the church some thought.
Love, Mom
Violet held the letter, not saying a word. Mom’s not done with expressing her feelings about how I should live my life.
Leora came in and took a seat across from her. “Did Mom have much to say from home?”
“Not a lot. She brought up the topic of me coming home again, and dating some of the Amish boys there. She’s still urging me to join the church.”
“I can tell by the tone of your voice that you’re not happy about her views.”
“I’m not. It really bothers me that she doesn’t understand how I feel. Our mother got to choose her path in life, and you have also chosen yours. Now it’s my turn to go out and pursue my dreams.”
“I see your point, and in time, our mamm will also. Just be patient with her and dad. When you’ve laid out your priorities and accomplished them, we will all understand and acknowledge them.”
Violet smiled. “I hope so, Sister. It’s nice to have you in my corner.”
“No problem.” Leora looked at the clock hanging on the wall. “Since you are not working today and will be here for supper…”
“I’ll help prepare the meal. What are we having this evening?”
Leora shifted in the chair. “Thought we could make something easy. How about a chicken-and-rice casserole?”
“That sounds tasty.” Violet glanced at the letter. “There’s a guy I’m interested in whose sister works at the restaurant. It’s Anne Yoder’s brother. He’s about my age.
Leora’s brows shot up. “Really?”
“I know you’re surprised that I’m thinking about dating an Amish fellow, but it’s only for fun.”
“Mom will be pleased to hear about that. She may even think you’ll change your mind about straying from the faith.”
Violet smiled. “I’m going to take this one day at a time and see how things go.”
“Now, let’s go into the kitchen and get the food ready for supper.” Leora rose from the chair.
“I’ll be there in a minute.” Violet got up and gave her sister a hug, then took the letter to her room, placing it in the top drawer of the dresser. She would have to decide whether to respond to Mom with a note or give her a call. It would be less stressful to write a quick letter than to speak to her directly.
Violet sat at the dinner table with Leora and John, enjoying the meal. John looked content eating what they’d made. Besides the casserole, there were seasoned green beans, homemade biscuits, and pickled beets.
John raked his fingers through his brown beard. “That was a tasty meal, Fraa, and I can’t wait for dessert.”
“I’m glad you enjoyed it,” his wife replied.
John turned to Violet. “Your sister says you heard from your mother today in a letter. How are things there?”
“Mom says everyone is fine.”
He smiled. “That’s good.”
“They have a new addition, a barn cat. Mom sounded happy about that.”
“That’s one thing we don’t need around here is a barn katz.”
“I agree.” She looked at Leora. “There’s an apple pie for dessert if everyone is ready.”
“I could handle a slice after we get some of this put away.”
“That does sound good.” John gave a nod. “And maybe a hot cup of kaffe to go with it.”
“After we clear the dishes and get things cleaned up, I’ll brew the coffee to go with dessert.” Leora placed her napkin on the plate.
Violet stood and began clearing the dishes. There was plenty of casserole left over for tomorrow night. She sat the heavy dish on the stove top to let it continue to cool before putting it in the refrigerator. Leora soon joined her, and John headed to the living room to relax.
Violet thought about Levi Yoder. He was cute, and she’d seen him riding on his motorcycle, which intrigued her. Anne, from the restaurant, was Levi’s sister, and she had told her all about him. Violet thought it would be fun to give this fellow a try and see what would happen. She wished she could keep her dating Levi a secret so her folks wouldn’t find out about it. Leora’s comment about Mom seemed spot-on. Violet was sure their mother would be quick to hope that her dating an Amish boy could mean they’d get their way. At least Leora wouldn’t be trying to push Violet into a relationship with him just because he was Plain. She was ever so grateful that she lived with her sister and not back at home at this point. Tomorrow, if Anne was working during her shift, she would ask her about the possibility of going on a date with Levi.
The restaurant had been busy at lunch, and it was full for supper too. Violet waited on her assigned tables, taking orders and bringing out the guests’ food. If anyone needed a way to get exercise, this job would fit the bill. Violet had even noticed that she slept better on her workdays due to keeping so busy.
During her break, Anne came over to where Violet sat. “How’s it going?”
“Not bad. I’m glad it’s my break time. My feet are appreciating that I’m sitting right now.”
Anne laughed. “I’ll be happy for my break in a half hour.”
Violet wasn’t sure how to approach the topic of dating Anne’s brother. She felt awkward, and her body tensed up at the idea of asking about meeting Levi. Come on, Violet. It’s easy. Just like ripping off a Band-Aid.
Anne tilted her head. “By the way, my brother would still like to meet you. Would you be available after work to see him?”
Feeling a sense of relief, Violet nodded vigorously. “Sure, that would be fine.”
“Okay, I’ll give Levi a call during my break and let him know to come by,” Anne said before heading back to work.
Violet was a little nervous about meeting Levi but figured it might be fun. She wondered how things would play out. Well, in just a few hours, she would know.
Chapter 2
It won’t be long and I’ll be meeting Levi. Violet finished her shift and headed off to freshen up in the ladies’ room. Once inside, a glance at the mirror showed her shiny face and creased eye shadow could use some attention. Violet rummaged through her big purse for the pink flamingo cosmetic bag and a brush. Once she’d dug them out, it didn’t take long to refresh her look and fix the long, brown ponytail she sported.
I hope I look okay. Violet checked the time on her smartphone, wondering when Levi would arrive. Her muscles twitched at the thought of meeting Levi for the first time. It was one thing to casually chat about him with Anne, but entirely another thing to be seeing and talking to him in person.
Violet stepped back from the mirror, gave a quick check of her clothes, and took off her name tag, setting it inside her handbag. I suppose I’m ready now. She slid the big bag onto her shoulder. It’s time for me to head out.
Violet exited the ladies’ room, hurrying back over to the restaurant. She saw Anne standing by one of the tables with her cute blond brother. Violet had seen him come in before to visit with his sister. She joined them and stood quietly, rubbing her arm.
Anne turned to Violet and smiled. “Let me introduce you two. Violet, this is my brother, Levi Yoder, and Levi, this is my coworker, Violet Lambright.”
“Nice to meet you.” Levi grinned, revealing a pair of cute dimples.
“It’s nice to meet you too.” Violet’s face warmed.
“Since I still have a few tables to clean, why don’t you two sit and visit for a while?”
They looked at each other and then back at Anne. Violet spoke first. “That would be fine.”
Levi gave a nod. “Sounds good to me.”
Anne hurried off to clean tables. Levi grabbed a chair across from Violet and took a seat. “My sister said you’re Amish.”
She sat. “Yes, I am, but as you can see, I’m enjoying the English world.” Violet gestured to the blouse and maxi skirt she wore.
“Me too, and it’s been great just wearing T-shirts and jeans. I’ve been living here since the spring and found a job at the hotel near this restaurant. It’s good work, but I’ll be looking forward to going back home, probably by next spring. How ‘bout you?”
Violet shook her head. “I’m not in any hurry to go back to Indiana. In fact, I am planning to stay here in sunny Florida.”
“Really?” His brows lowered. “It’s okay here, but it’s not like being in Goshen. Besides, my real future awaits me there. I’m planning to join the church sometime next year. My father wants me to work at his shop back home along with my older brother. And I’m sure Daed will want one of us to take over his business someday.”
“That sounds like a good plan.” She fiddled with her purse strap. “I like working at this restaurant because it’s a lot like the one back home. It’s been a good fit for me. To be honest, I was ready to leave Middlebury and start a new adventure. Even driving myself here shows how much I wanted to get started with something different.”
He nodded while rubbing his chin. “I had a car for a short time back home, but I like having the motorcycle here to get around on. It’s a lot more fun. Sometimes my sister lets me drive her car when she’s not using it.”
Violet tilted her head. “Does Anne plan on staying here after you’ve gone back home to Indiana?”
“She’s not sure yet, but I have a feeling she’ll end up coming back to Goshen.” Levi paused. “If Anne stayed here, she’d miss the four seasons. I would especially miss the fall, with all the intense colors the trees offer.”
“They are pretty, but the downside is all the raking. That isn’t my favorite thing to do.”
They continued to visit, sharing about their families and the communities they were from. It didn’t take long to become familiar with each other’s Amish roots. Sometimes though, as he spoke, Levi would throw in some Pennsylvania Dutch words or even full sentences. Violet wasn’t thrilled with that aspect because she was determined to be English. She continued to speak strictly English and wondered if he was just goofing around. If so, she hoped he would quit doing that.
When Violet returned to her sister’s house that evening, she went to her room and put her things away. Her first meeting with Levi had gone well, and in a couple of days, they’d be going out on a date. Violet looked forward to that. He would be coming by the house to pick her up after work. Since she wasn’t as familiar with the area as Levi, maybe he’d show her some new places.
