The student in this entry has asked in 2012 that his identity be hidden for Internet security reasons. We are using his initials instead.
Like most of our host families, E.'s wanted to show their student Pennsylvania Dutch country in Lancaster County. Here's what E.'s host mom, Carrie, wrote about their foray into Dutchland.
"E. and our family traveled earlier this week to Manheim, Pennsylvania, to visit Root's Farmers Market. E. spent all morning shopping for unique souvenirs for his friends and family at the giant outdoor Flea Market. He surprised host sister Devyn with his excellent talent at negotiating a better price with the vendors.
"He saw many Amish and Mennonite people selling their delicious fruits, vegetables, meats, and homemade sweets. He saw lots of horse-drawn buggies and was surprised to see the Amish children using foot powered scooters for transportation (they are bicycles with the pedal and chain removed, as is the Amish custom).
"We went to Bird-in-Hand Restaurant and Bakery for a smorgasboard lunch (a huge buffet filled with Pennsylvania Dutch food)! E. tried the birch "beer" soda but decided that he preferred plain water to drink with his meal. He did find that he really likes apple butter spread on his bread.
E., left, tries some Pennsylvania Dutch food
with host sister Devyn and friend.
"At the Intercourse Canning Company, E. got to sample lots of Pennsylvania Dutch food like chow-chow, peanut butter schmeir, and different jellies and jams. He picked out some treats for family back home!
"The next day, E. was off to Hersheypark to ride amusements with Devyn and some of her friends, and they also are meeting Antoine and his host family. They will visit the Hershey outlet stores as E. tells us that he loves to shop. Ray and I plan to stay home and get the camper packed for our upcoming trip to Niagara Falls and Quebec."
