Also, I think it’s time to share with you just what happened between Josh and me back before I came here. No one except Josh knows that I was the one who broke things off. I was heartbroken, like I told you, but things couldn’t go on as they were. Josh had privately told me that he wasn’t sure he could be Amish for life—he’d actually had a few discussions with Evan about that, all without anyone else knowing, Josh said. I’m sure that’ll come as a surprise to you, too.

Difficult as it was to break up with him, how could we keep courting once I was aware of his true feelings? And many of the youth—and maybe even you—probably thought I took this job so far from home because I was jilted. Between you and me, I still do care for Josh, but I’ll have to get over him sooner or later. There just isn’t a way forward for us.

With Baptism Sunday coming up soon, just know that it makes me sad to miss out on witnessing you make your lifelong vow to God and the church. And, honestly, I wish I could follow through with the instruction and be baptized alongside you, like we’d always planned, instead of waiting till I return home. Even so, I do believe I did the right thing by coming to help Carolyn and the children, who’ve become nearly like family to me.

Every day I read the verses we were studying in baptism class, and I pray faithfully, too, so don’t worry that my time here is pulling me away from the People.

You’ll also be happy to hear that little Bobby can say the Lord’s Prayer without help now. And he’s been teaching it to his mother and wee sisters. I’ve taught him to sing “Jesus Loves the Little Children,” too.

Ellie’s face broke into a smile. “That’s wunnerbaar,” she said out loud.

By the way, Carolyn has been very respectful about the fact that I’m Plain—she’s never asked me to dress fancy, and the children don’t seem to mind, either. Can you imagine me in Englischers’ clothing? I certainly can’t!

I also want you to know that I can definitely get away for a Thanksgiving visit—if only for a few days. Carolyn’s parents are traveling from Tennessee to celebrate with her and the children here, so I’ll be free to come home, at last! I’m afraid it’ll be hard to leave again, though.