Marian Beaman
Memoir Author & Storyteller
Stories of faith, family, and a life that moved from Plain to Fancy.
Welcome — this is a place my memories find meaning. I spent my first 24 years as a Mennonite girl in Lancaster County, Pennsylvania (the Plain), before moving south to Charlotte, North Carolina, and eventually settling in Jacksonville, Florida (the Fancy).
Every other Wednesday I post a new story about faith, nostalgia, and the family ties that bind us together.
Marian’s Memoirs
Mennonite Daughter:
The Story of a Plain Girl
This is where it all starts — a childhood shaped by tradition inside a strict Lancaster County Mennonite community. It’s an inside look at what that world actually felt like: the expectations, the faith, and the quiet work of figuring out who you are underneath the plain dress and the plain rules. Stories with treasured family photos and a family tree shape the memoir.
My Checkered Life:
A Marriage Memoir
Built around a quilt metaphor, this book looks at what fifty-plus years of marriage actually looks like up close — culture clashes, a travel trailer disaster, tight money, and learning how to fight fair. There are old diaries in here, family recipes, restored photos. It’s as much a love story as it is a record of two people figuring out how to build a life together.
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Latest Reflections & Reviews
Coffee, Tea, or Shake – What’s in Your Breakfast Cup?
"I don't drink coffee," Alex said. "Then who drinks coffee at your house?" I replied, eying the coffee-themed plaques on her kitchen wall. Her quick answer, "Oh, Andy does, and I liked organizing the coffee display on my wall." (This on a visit to friend Alexandra and...
Riveting Reads? Maybe, Maybe Not
My book reviews are getting shorter and shorter. Why is that? you ask. One reason could be this----I review every book I read. I think ir's a good idea to condense my reviews. I hope it's good for you too, dear reader. Here are a few book covers and...
Trip Tidbits: Behind the Scenes
Dazzling sights and sounds, succulent cuisine, ringing bells and Adriatic breezes. Those were my recollections from our cruise to the Mediterranean in April 2026. Now, in early June, I'm reflecting on our travel to eastern Europe from a different perspective, the trip...
About Marian Longenecker Beaman
I’m a writer, a former teacher, and a speaker. I love words— and especially the connection they make possible. Whether you’ve been reading for years or just found me today, I’m glad you’re here.
Got a story of your own, or want to set up a book club talk? I’d love to hear from you..