Amish Life: When It's Dark or Raining, What Do They Do?

The Amish community is known for its traditional way of life and reliance on manual labor. But what happens when the weather takes a turn for the worse, like when it's dark or raining? Let's dive into the activities and routines of the Amish in such conditions.

Normal Days: Business as Usual

On a rainy day, the Amish continue their daily routines with business as usual. However, during heavy rainstorms, men might find indoor activities more appealing, such as reading books or working on projects in the barn.

Women's Daily Routines

Women in the Amish community have a variety of chores to attend to, especially during the Spring and Summer months when they can accomplish more indoors. They focus on cleaning, cooking, sewing, doing laundry, and taking care of the children. During leisure time, their activities might include reading books, quilting, or playing with the children and engaging in crafts.

Men's Social Activities

Men typically socialize on the front porch, where they read books, discuss the day's events, and sometimes play with the children or work on projects in the barn. On Friday nights, the local Amish community often comes together to spend quality time, such as making homemade ice cream or playing basketball or volleyball indoors. Some barns are even designed with built-in basketball courts to accommodate these activities.

Children's Playtime

Children in the Amish community enjoy a variety of activities, including playing with toys and yard games. On rainy days, they often turn to indoor activities, such as board games, reading, or crafting.

Amish Family Life

Both my boss and my landlord once mentioned to me with a sly look how many children the Amish have. They mentioned that evening activities with the family are preferred over any other entertainment. According to them, spending time with their wives and children in a warm bed is highly valued.

Amish Activities When Dark or Raining

When the weather is dark or rainy, the Amish still have a variety of activities to fill their days:

Reading and Bible Study: Despite not having televisions or computers, the Amish read books and the Bible for spiritual and educational purposes. Crafts and Repairs: Activities like needlepoint, weaving, knitting, and doing repairs on equipment keep them busy and productive. Solar and Lantern Use: To manage lighting, some Amish households use lanterns and have begun to incorporate solar energy as a sustainable alternative. Rain as a Routine: The Amish take rainy weather in stride and continue their daily chores without much disruption.

Conclusion

The Amish lifestyle is characterized by steadfastness, resilience, and a deep connection to nature. Whether it's a sunny day or it's raining, their community remains active and engaged in meaningful activities that align with their values and traditions.