Firstly, no one in our community battles alone. 

I remember one winter when I was maybe 9 or 10 years old when the power went out for almost two weeks because of an ice storm that hit Berlin, Ohio and its surrounding areas. 

It was a scary and uncertain time but it was one in which the community came together to provide for the needs of one another.

I remember people making sure their friends and neighbors had wood to burn to keep warm. I remember families checking in with one another to make sure everyone had adequate food and supplies.

I remember that even though the entire community shut down that there was this tangible understanding that if a neighbor approached a neighbor with a need - that that need would be met and then some

Secondly, families get creative. 

When I look back, I remember that time with my family so fondly. When you have two weeks together with no electricity, you sure do have to get creative! 

It was an adventure to figure out how to logistically make our food over our wood burning stove - something I had never experienced before. We started with some basics but got incredibly creative and adventurous as the days went on. I even remember my Mom making an entire meal over that stove which was fun to watch but even more fun to eat!

Beyond our adventures in meal creating - we read, we played games, we rested, we joked and we talked. The days were long but we no doubt found creative ways to fill the time we had. 

Thirdly, we get kind to one another. 

Even though we were able to create our own brand of fun, that time together wasn't without its friction. We were a family of four and essentially only had our living room heated by our wood-burning stove which meant for close quarters. 

We had to be willing to be understanding when frustrations arose among each other. We had to give each other grace when emotions or tensions got high. We had to meet each other where we were at and offer kindness and compassion to one another as we each took turns needing it. 

Finally, we get (and stay) thankful.

Our time frozen indoors with no electricity gave us amazing perspective on just how fortunate we are in every day life. It was a somber thing to return to normal because we all realized just how much we took for granted. 

In uncertain times, we have an incredible opportunity to pause, draw close to our community, lean on each other and appreciate all we've been given and all we've worked for. 

You may not live in a small, tight knot community geographically - but you can bring the values of Amish Country Community to wherever you are through whatever your circumstances might be. 

I know that time of the unknown was tough but it was my family and my community and ultimately, our collective will to persevere with excellence, that got us through it. 

That time and those circumstances may have been unique, but the spirit of our community remains intact and for that, I am endlessly grateful! 

General Housekeeping:

As of right now, Berlin Natural Bakery is up and running and doing our very best to bake, pack and ship your orders in a timely manner.

Please know that we have gotten FLOODED with orders so there will likely be delays in getting your order to you. You should receive an email from FedEx when your order ships just please give us a little time to catch up. 

We are so very honored to provide you with your daily bread and - as long as forces beyond our control don't get in our way -  we will continue to do just that. 

All our best from our family to yours, 

Nicole 
The 3rd Generation of Berlin Natural Bakery