Eicher Family Embraces Winter with Sledding, Birthdays, and Carrot Cake

As Groundhog Day predicts more winter, the Eicher family finds joy in the season's activities and celebrations.

Published on Feb. 8, 2026

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The Eicher family in Indiana is embracing the extended winter predicted by Groundhog Day, with the children enjoying sled rides, the family celebrating several birthdays, and the matriarch sharing a comforting carrot cake recipe from her cookbook. Despite the cold weather, the family is finding ways to make the most of the season.

Why it matters

The story highlights how one Amish family is maintaining a positive outlook and creating joyful moments during the long winter months, a time that can be challenging for those with health conditions like muscular dystrophy. It also showcases the importance of family, traditions, and community in the Amish way of life.

The details

The Eicher family has been taking advantage of the snowy weather, with the children enjoying sled rides pulled by the family's horse, Buddy. The family is also celebrating several birthdays this month, including those of Joanna, Grace, Andrea, and Mose. The matriarch, Lovina, is grateful for the help of her friend Ruth and is baking a special carrot cake recipe from her cookbook to mark the occasions.

  • Groundhog Day predicted six more weeks of winter.
  • Joanna's birthday is on February 4.
  • Grace's birthday is on February 6.
  • Andrea's 4th birthday is on February 14.
  • Mose's birthday was on February 5.

The players

Lovina Eicher

The matriarch of the Eicher family who is sharing the story of her family's winter activities and celebrations.

Joe Eicher

Lovina's husband, who wishes they had kept one of the horse-drawn sleighs they used to own.

Buddy

The Eicher family's horse that is good at pulling the sled and knows to stop when the sled is empty.

Ruth

Lovina's special friend who does a lot to support her and encourage her to continue writing her column.

Allison

A 6-year-old child in the Eicher family who is worried her teacher won't remember her name after the weather-related school closures.

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What they’re saying

“Allison starts giggling, rolls her eyes and said, "No, Grandma doesn't bake you a birthday cake. She gives you a BIRTHDAY GIFT!”

— Allison

“Recently when the children were off school for over a week due to the weather Allison was pretty scared that teacher Brooklyn would not remember their names when they came back to school. She is quite the little talker.”

— Lovina Eicher

What’s next

The judge in the case will decide on Tuesday whether or not to allow Walker Reed Quinn out on bail.

The takeaway

This story highlights how the Eicher family is finding joy and embracing the winter season through family traditions, celebrations, and the simple pleasures of sledding and baking. Despite the challenges of the cold weather, their resilience and close-knit community provide comfort and support.