About Me

I am the author of the memoir "Why I Left the Amish." In February 2012, I was featured in the PBS documentary "The Amish" that aired on American Experience. I was born and raised in an Amish community in Ohio. Driven by my desire for freedom and more formal education, I broke away from my community –– not once, but twice. I graduated from Smith College in May 2007 with a major in German Studies and a minor in Philosophy. My education has included research on the Amish with Dr. Donald Kraybill and a semester abroad in Germany, where I studied at the University of Hamburg. During my thirty-year inner struggle of coming to terms with my Amish past, I have gleaned a better understanding of myself and my heritage. It is this perspective that I bring to my reflections about Amish.

Sunday, January 1, 2012

Happy New Year! And Winners Chosen

It is now twelve hours into 2012, a brand new year. I look forward to what this year may bring. Here in Western Massachusetts the sun is out, and it is another mild day, which helps shed a bright outlook on what's ahead.

David just drew two names for winners for the books I offered as giveaways. Congratulations to Shelley and Ronnie -- your names were chosen. Shelley and Ronnie, if you'll send me your addresses (salomafurlong[at]gmail[dot]com), I will send your books to you. Shelley, you will receive the book "A Stolen Life" and Ronnie, you will receive "Salt Dancers." Happy reading to you both!

I'd like to extend good wishes to all for a Happy New Year. May you feel gratitude and joy for what is now and may that continue into the new year and beyond, as you hope and dream your future.

Peace and Love to all!

3 comments:

  1. Congrats to Shelley and Ronnie!

    Happy New Year! :)

    ReplyDelete
  2. congrats to shelley and ronnie!
    happy new year to you, too, saloma!

    ReplyDelete
  3. Saloma, Just want to tell you that I've desired a copy of your book ever since it came out. I got it for Christmas and enjoyed reading your account, and I'm waiting for Book 2. I'll not wait so long to buy it! Happy New Year to you and yours.

    ReplyDelete