Keila mentioned that she had always wanted to visit the area. “I’ve been looking forward to a couple of peaceful days away from my studies.”

They stopped at the Bird-in-Hand Bake Shop, and Keila purchased a giant soft pretzel at the large food truck parked to the side of the bakery. All the while, Anna was mindful to be courteous and helpful, hoping she was representing the information center well. As Keila munched on her pretzel, they found themselves discussing Keila’s heavy class load and what it meant to be successful, aside from financial gain. “If I may say so, you seem very content,” Keila remarked.

Anna nodded. “I have lots to be thankful for, including my work.”

“It’s nice for a change, meeting someone doing what they love.”

Anna shared that she believed God had opened the doors for her to get a job as a tour guide in Strasburg.

Keila smiled. “That’s a refreshing way to look at it. A lot of people I know are so caught up in a quest for success that they really don’t take time to consider anything to do with faith. That can’t be good for a person.”

Anna agreed. “What type of major are you pursuing?”

“Gerontology . . . and actually, I’d say it’s pursuing me.” Keila began to share her lifelong desire to assist elderly people in some meaningful way. “Once I have my master’s degree, I want to work as a rehab therapist. I’ve been drawn to older people since I was a kid.”

“Considering how long people live these days compared to decades ago, there must be a real need for people like you.”

“Definitely,” Keila said, smiling at her.

The remainder of the tour was split between an Amish furniture shop, where Keila had an opportunity to talk with an Amish craftsman, and a shop featuring wooden toys. “I have two young nephews to shop for,” she announced to Anna before making some purchases there. “They’re such great boys—I can never resist getting them a little something.”

As they headed back to the information center, Keila thanked Anna for a terrific time and mentioned possibly returning for a different tour in the future. “I’ll have to see when I can come back here again.”

“Do you have family or friends in the area?” Anna asked.

“No, but I wish I did.” Keila laughed a little. “In some ways, I could really go for the tranquil Plain life.”

Anna wondered if all of her clients would be as much fun and as easy to entertain as Keila. She certainly hoped so.