It is impossible to safely drive the grandchildren and simultaneously take photographs, but if I could I would have documented some amazing scenery on Friday’s drive.

First, navigating through the farmlands around Lancaster and spending some time exploring the stores in Intercourse (where we found an exceptional restaurant with great food and first-class service).

Then driving through spectacular views in the Allegheny Mountain system. We experienced sunshine, clouds, and some of the more torrential rainstorms I have seen in a while. Several times we crested a high point to see panoramic views featuring steep hills, craggy peaks, towering clouds, streams of sunlight and pockets of mist filling up the valleys.

Lunch at “The Kling House” restaurant was an island of relaxation in the middle of a long day. The eatery is housed in the family’s historic home and features homemade dishes that the children gave a resounding two thumbs up.

These are great kids, good-hearted and kind. Rebekah and I are grateful to have this time together, exploring new places and learning about the scale, the beauty, the history and depth of America. As another of Suzanne Woods Fisher’s Amish Proverbs puts it:

“Tomorrow’s world will be shaped by what we teach our children today.”

– DEREK