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Monday, December 24, 2012

Christmas Fun: Stained Glass Jello


I know it's not Tuesday, but I'm pretty sure everybody will be quite busy tomorrow  morning with Christmas {just a guess}.....
and I wanted to post this super easy and pretty addition to your Christmas feast just in case you were still looking for something like that!

I know jello isn't the healthiest thing in the world, but it is tasty, and it brings lots of fun memories with it!

This recipe is also a plus for those of us who live where it is impossible to get Cool Whip or cream cheese, because unlike most jello salads, it doesn't use either one!

This recipe does take a little time in the fridge, so if you want it for tomorrow, get right on it!

Another plus? You can customize this treat to whatever holiday you are celebrating.....
red and green jello in a bundt pan looks like a wreath!
all red jello for Valentines Day!
green and yellow jello for St. Patrick's Day!
red and blue and cut into star shapes for 4th of July!
Plus, you can use up those little packets of jello that always seem to come in care packages!
{Just don't use any older than 1995.....not that I've ever received anything like that!}

Stained Glass Jello

4 reg. boxes jello (colors of your choosing)
1 14-oz. can sweetened condensed milk
2 envelopes unflavored gelatin
water

Dissolve each box of jello with one cup hot water in separate containers (shallow is better).
Chill until firm.
Cut jello into small blocks (or use small cookie cutters) and arrange in 9x13 pan (or pan of your choice).
In separate bowl, dissolve plain gelatin in 1/4 cup cold water.
Add dissolved gelatin to 1 3/4 cup hot water and sweetened condensed milk.
Let cool.
Poor cooled milk mix over jello and chill overnight.

Have a lovely Christmas!

Friday, December 21, 2012

The Wonder of Wonders



It's Christmas!  The Most Wonderful Time of the Year!  I love to hear the Christmas music... I'll hear a certain Christmas song and it transports me back to my childhood,  where I can see the dimly lit living room with the bright Christmas tree in the corner, I can feel the shag carpet beneath my feet, and I can smell the wonderful foods my mother is baking in the kitchen...  So many wonderful memories of years gone by can be brought to the fore-front of my mind just by a familiar Christmas song.  

Another song that always brings back wonderful memories and never fails to bring  tears to my eyes is "The Wonder of Wonders."  My mother would sing this song in church every Christmas.  I can remember her explaining this song to us children and hear her voice as she told the Christmas story.  Her voice would catch and tears would fill her eyes as she told us how the Lord became a child and dwelt among men.  I can just imagine Mary gazing into the precious little face of her newborn son, and the awe that she felt in holding God's Son.  I am still amazed that God loved this world enough to send His son, and He sent his son in the most helpless, vulnerable state... as a newborn baby.  How humbling for the Creator of the Universe to humble himself and become a man, a baby, so he could become The Sacrifice for our sins.  

The Wonder of it all... is that Christ Jesus loved us, loved me enough to become a baby, to live among men, to die and rise again so that everyone has the chance at eternal life in Heaven. 

And you know... when I really think about it... spending Christmas overseas away from friends and family seems like such a small, small price to pay for what Christ has already done for us!  The least we can do is share the Gospel so that everyone has the chance to receive The Greatest Gift!

THE WONDER OF WONDERS

THE WONDER OF WONDERS AS SHE LOOKED ON HIS FACE, 
THAT THIS LITTLE BOY SPOKE THE WORLDS INTO PLACE. 
THE STARS AND THE MOON SHINING BRIGHTLY ON THEM, 
THE EARTH AND THE SUN WERE CREATED BY HIM. 

*CHORUS*

THE WONDER OF WONDERS ,OH HOW COULD IT BE, 
THAT GOD BECAME FLESH AND WAS GIVIN FOR ME. 
THE ALMIGHTY CAME DOWN AND WALKED AMOUNG MEN, 
THE WONDER OF WONDERS, HE DIED FOR MY SINS. 

THE WONDER OF WONDERS AS SHE LOOKED DOWN AND SMILED, 
THAT HE WAS HER MAKER AS WELL AS HER CHILD. 
HE CREATED THE WOMB THAT HAD GIVIN HIM BIRTH. 
HE WAS GOD INCARNATE CAME DOWN TO EARTH. 

THE WONDER OF WONDERS AS SHE HEARD HIS SMALL CRY, 
THAT THIS VOICE HAD THUNDERED ON MT. SINAI. 
THE SMALL HAND SHE HELD SO TENDERLY HAD 
MADE A DRY PATH THROUGH THE MIGHTY RED SEA.

Tuesday, December 18, 2012

Christmas Breakfast: Orange Streusel Coffee Cake


As Christmas is only a week away, you probably have Christmas breakfast all figured out, right?!?
Then again, maybe you are not a planner, and you are still looking for just the right dish....
If that's you, then I've got a recipe for you today!

This coffee cake is deliciously fruity.
It can be made the night before and eaten at room temperature on Christmas morning, or it can be whipped up first thing Christmas morning and be baking while the present-opening is going on!

Orange Streusel Coffee Cake

Cake:
2 c. all-purpose flour
1/2 c. sugar
2 tsp. baking powder
1/2 tsp. salt
1 Tbsp. orange zest
1/2 c. milk
1/2 c. orange juice
1/2 c. oil
1 egg, lightly beaten
1/2 tsp. vanilla extract

Topping:
1/2 c. sugar
1/4 c. flour
2 Tbsp. butter, cut into small pieces
confectioners'/icing sugar for dusting (optional)

Heat oven to 375 degrees.
Grease 9-inch cake pan.
Whisk together flour, sugar, baking powder and salt.
Stir in zest.
Make a well in flour mix.
Pour in milk, orange juice, oil, egg, and vanilla.
Stir until just combined and all dry ingredients are moistened.
Turn into prepared pan.
In small bowl, mix together sugar, flour, and butter until consistency of cornmeal.
Sprinkle evenly over batter.
Bake for 40-45 minutes or until toothpick inserted in center comes out clean.
Allow to cool completely in pan. {If you can wait that long!!!}
Dust with confectioners'/icing sugar, if desired.

Enjoy!


Friday, December 14, 2012

Christ Centered Christmas - Fellowship Fridays


Christmas

'Tis the Season!  It's Christmas, the Most Wonderful time of the Year!  How do YOU celebrate Christmas?  "...and they shall call his name Emmanuel, which being interpreted is, God with us." (Matthew 1:23)

I love this time of year.  I love seeing the joy on everyone's face, I love the excitement in the children's eyes... I love singing the Christmas songs, hearing the Christmas music throughout the house...  I love just about everything about Christmas!  "Glory to God in the highest, and on earth peace, good will toward men." Luke 2:14)

I believe it's important to keep our thoughts centered on Christ at Christmas, it's so easy to get caught up in the flurry of shopping, the hustle and bustle that surrounds this day, but we need to stay focused on the CHRIST in Christmas!  What are some ways that you keep Christ the center of your Christmas?  "For unto you is born this day in the city of David a Saviour, which is Christ the Lord." (Luke 2:11)

I've listed a few ways to share the JOY of Christmas with those around us.  Please feel free to add to this list.  Also, please add ways that you share Christ during Christmas in your country! 

Find a family in need, take gifts of food, clothing or other needed items.  
Visit your neighbors, share Christmas goodies, etc... with them. 
Visit a Hospital to spread some Christmas Cheer!
Invite people over, many are alone and missing family this time of year. 
GIVE!  Do what you can to help those in need. 

"Every man shall give as he is able, according to the blessing of the Lord the God which he hath given thee." (Deuteronomy 17:5) 

"And she shall bring forth a son, and thou shalt call his name JESUS: for he shall save his people from their sins." (Matthew 1:21)




Tuesday, December 11, 2012

Christmas Fun: Buckeyes


Today's treat is another quickie, but, oh, so delicious!

I don't know if these are popular in all parts of the US, but growing up in Michigan, it was certainly not a party without them!

I would advise you to double the batch, because they will go fast!!!

Buckeyes

1 c. creamy peanut butter
1/2 c. butter, softened
2 c. confectioners'/icing sugar
2 c. chocolate bark or chocolate chips

Line baking sheets with waxed paper, set aside.
In a large bowl, beat peanut butter, butter, and sugar until well combined.
Roll into 1-inch balls and place on baking sheets.
If mixture is sticky, wet hands with cold water and continue rolling.
Place baking sheets in freezer for 30 minutes or until balls are firm.
Melt chocolate in microwave or on stove top.
Pierce balls with a toothpick and dip into chocolate 3/4 of the way deep, wiping excess chocolate
on rim of bowl.
Place on waxed paper; repeat with remaining balls.
Return undipped buckeyes to freezer for 10 minutes if they get too soft.
Chill in refrigerator for 45 minutes, until set.

Try not to eat them all in one sitting!!!

{Second Annual} Christmas Blog Hop!

 
It's that time again!
Last year we had a great response for our Christmas Blog Hop,
and I'm excited to do it again.
 
Not sure what to do? 
It's quite simple, just link up any or all of your Christmas posts here.  Show us your Christmas decorations, your tree, your traditions, family photos, holiday baking, anything Christmas related!

To encourage you to link up your posts, I'm hosting a giveaway!  For every (blog post link-up) you will get one entry to win a $25 Amazon Gift Card!!  So if you link up one post, you will get one entry, if you link up three posts, you get three entries!  So, get started!
 
Also, please share the button so others know where to find us so they can join in the fun.
 
 
 
 
 
 
 

Tuesday, December 4, 2012

Christmas Fun: Mints

Now I know that the title of this post doesn't sound too exciting......mints?
But trust me when I say that you have never had mints like these!
This is another one of my Nina's famous recipe.
Everyone who has ever had them has asked for the recipe.
In fact, I'm pretty sure that people invited my family to Christmas parties just so my mom would bring these delicious little confections.
Every year our pastor and his family would come for dinner at our house around Christmas time, and every time he came, his first statement was, "I'll sit next to the mints!"

Most Ghanians are not big sweet-eaters.
As a general rule, they don't like ANY of our Christmas goodies.
But these?
These they like!

Not only are these tasty, they are super-duper easy!
Leaves more time for enjoying them?
Right!

Mints

1/3 c. light corn syrup (can make your own, but they will not set up as well)
1/4 c. butter (NO SUBSTITUTES!)
1 tsp. peppermint extract
1/2 tsp. salt
1 lb. confectioners'/icing sugar
red and green food coloring

Blend corn syrup, butter, extract, and salt together.
Add sugar to mixture.
Divide into two parts and color one half red (which will really look pink!) and the other half green.
Roll into 1-inch balls and place on waxed paper.
Press with thumb (like making thumb print cookies).
Refrigerate until firm.

* If you wish, you could also dip in chocolate!

Monday, December 3, 2012

Christmas Blog Hop Button



 
Here is our button for our second annual Christmas Blog Hop!
 
Would you help spread the word?  Just copy the html code {there on the right} and add it to your blog.   We will be having a fun giveaway next week, and by adding the button you earn an extra entry.  Please plan to join in the fun!

Thursday, November 29, 2012

Cupcakes with sprinkles




Yesterday I made cupcakes with sprinkles for Joseph's 4th birthday. Joseph is Pendo's (our houselady) son. We try to do little things for her kids, so Abby and I frosted some cupcakes and put some colored sprinkles on top. Sprinkles I picked up at Walmart, for next to nothing, during out last trip to the States. They are available here, but cost about $7 for a bottle. Needless to say, with them being that expensive, most Tanzanians have never had them before. It was a special treat for little Joseph and his brothers.

When Pendo arrived to work today she told me how happy Joseph was and how he enjoyed the crunch of the sprinkles. He went from person to person and chewed on them so they could hear them crunching. He wanted to share his joy to all who would listen!

It truly is the small things in life that will bring us joy if we let them. What little things can you find joy in as you look for them? I'd love to read in the comments the things God shows you today. Be like Joseph and share your joy with us!


Wednesday, November 28, 2012

Christmas Countdown Tree {Advent}


This year I was looking for a Christmas advent or countdown for my children.  I wanted it to point them to Christ and help show them the real meaning of Christmas.  I searched pinterest and google, but came up with nothing that I really liked.  I decided to make my own using Scripture passages.  The idea for this is everyday starting December 1, we will turn a card over and read the Scripture on the back.  By December 25, we will have read the entire Christmas story.  I am hoping this will also help my kids to memorize these passages, as well.  It begins with Matthew 1:18-21, then Luke 2:1-20, and ends with Isaiah 9:6. 
 
(If anyone knows how to add a document, I would be more than happy to attach the document to share with others.  Maybe I'll google this today!)

Real Missionary Women...

Through creating a Baptist Missionary Women on Facebook our little group has grown to over 500 missionary ladies from around the world. We have made friends with one another and shared burdens, stories, and laughs to encourage one another. Recently, my family and I had to go without water for two days.  Another missionary lady friend of mine, who I met thanks to our FB page, and I began discussing those missionary life "events" that make us laugh; well, some times after the fact! The moments when we feel like real missionary women!
We asked other missionary ladies to share some of their missionary life moments by finishing the sentence, "Real Missionary Women...." The response was amazing! We all so enjoyed reading one another's answers that we thought we should share them here with you!

Real Missionary Women...

...know how to kill any rodents that crosses her path.

...don't have a home to live in while on furlough.

...are really homeless.

...can sleep anywhere!

...don't always have electricity.

....wear the same clothes days on end to save on washing.

...know that home is where the suitcase is.

...can choke down all sorts of strange foods, and keep a smile while they do so.

...always feel like a foreigner (on their field and when on furlough in the States).

...mix languages and thinks everyone should understand what they are saying.

....know where the clean bathrooms are on every interstate in America.

...eat the bugs.

....don't flush (when they don't have water).

...are language mix masters.

...are recipe substitution whizzes.

...are candle hoarders (for when the electricity is out).

...are machete-wielding wild women.

...play with fire.

..know the difference between "Eastern" and "Western"...toilets that is!

...are roach killers!

...prefer bumpy roads.

...are expert bug-killers and rat catchers.

..."Google" often.

...know how to be the plumber, electrician, nurse, exterminator, professor, music lesson instructor, chef, and laundry maid (by hand).

...have a "backup plan" for the "backup plan.

...learn to not ask too many questions when it comes to foreign food

...can create 15 different dishes out of the same ingredient

...know how to bargain to get the same price that all the nationals get.

...know how to pack!

...prefer the scent of mosquito spray over perfume.

...can make almost anything from scratch.

...can bathe three kids in 1 gallon of water.

.....can tweak ANY recipe.

...use the metric system.

...use a vacuum cleaner for more than just dirt.

...can even get rid of baby bats with a shop vac!

...knows an imported from America food item when she sees one!

...border hop to find the best deals on groceries.

...know what a true meltdown is! When it rains, it pours!!

...carry currency from at least two different countries in their purses just in case!

...know where to find copy cat recipes to favorite meals.

...appreciate toilet paper...or banana leaves.

...search for hours to find recipes for things ladies back home would have a nervous breakdown if they had to make them themselves.

...know how to sing "Let It Snow, Let It Snow, Let It Snow" when it's 100 degrees outside in December.

...wonder if the power will be on all day, so she can use her crock pot.

...try to figure out a way to get the bugs she's just discovered in her precious spice jar out so she doesn't have to throw it away.

...get out of bed in the middle of the night to do laundry when water can be heard pumping into the water tank.

...carry toilet paper in their car.

...buys her meat in the open market early in the morning in order to get it fresh and without too many flies all over it. Then she brings it home and grinds it into mince (ground beef).

...can use an outhouse while wearing her purse around her neck.

...can stand in line at McDonald's and have to ask what certain items are while those around look at her as if she's an alien.

...go ballistic when they get a letter in the mail.

...always carry plastic bags as "trash cans" for baby diapers or whatever might be needed, anti-bacterial wipes for hand washing, and tissues or a big ol' roll of tp in their purses just in case.

...save plastic bags for going shopping.

...carry plastic bags in their purse because they never know when their kids will throw up from carsickness or the food.

...crack eggs open in a separate bowl just in case there's a little "chicky" in it!

...know how to fire up the generator.

...thank God daily for water, electricity and safety.

...buy something if they see it because she may never see it again.

...overhears their kids singing hymns in another language.

...thinks a mosquito is equally as dangerous as a terrorist.

...always carry toilet paper in their purses...or know how to use whatever may be available.

...know how to use squat toilets.

...can use a squat potty on a moving train!

...know where the good toilets are in town.


...shouldn't but can hold out for the one bathroom on the three hour trip that is "safe".

...can use a public bathroom without touching anything, while parking the older children just outside but within earshot, and all while 9 months pregnant!

...have to start to teach their kids to put the TP IN the toilet instead of the trash can!

...can work wonders with three squares of TP.


...(their) children hardly know "Jesus Loves Me" in English but pick another language and they can sing all three stanzas!

...have to teach her kids the English words to hymns before furlough.

...speak at least three languages: their native language, their host country language, and the one their family mixes between the two at home.

...don't even blink when their husband gets excited preaching and invites the whole church over for dinner to keep talking!


...get excited when someone says "How are you" in ENGLISH!


...know you can always add more water to the beans and feed a few more!

...are pretty sure there will be bathtubs and dishwashers in heaven.

...wonder how come they weren't born in their host country as they they cannot imagine living anywhere else except for maybe Cancun or the home department at Sears!

...are just enjoying the journey on their way HOME!

...thinks a great visited with family is a SKYPE date with only one or two Internet troubles.

...squeal when they find someone from their host country on the streets of small town USA! Oh and then they proceed to have 15 minute conversation that only they and their new friend, understand, AND somehow find the strength to endure another 6 months of furlough!

...are always surprised when the food they said "I will NEVER eat that!" actually tastes good!

...have been locked inside their own outhouse...during a thunderstorm... waiting for one of the family to notice her absence.

...know how to clean a dirt floor.

...can either make it, make do, or do without nearly anything.

...are honestly thankful for a hot shower.

...don't take the statement, "You look hot," as a compliment.

...have learned to give thanks for water outages- it means she doesn't need to feel guilty about leaving the dishes overnight!

...have learned to overcome aversions to creepy crawlies so she can protect her kids from them.

...know how to make food stretch for when unexpected company stops by.

...can feed their kids rice for days on end and make it seem fun by allowing them to add their own "toppings".

...smile and wave at the nationals peeking in their windows… and usually ask them in for coffee.

...become overwhelmed with all the craziness in America and can't wait to get "home" to where there aren't so many choices and grocery shopping is a breeze!

...become "out of touch" with many family members, but closer than sisters to their fellow missionary wives.

...may not be able to give you the latest fashion advice, but can give detailed instructions on how to mend clothing and make it last for years until the next furlough.

...take about two weeks on furlough before they remember to speak English everywhere!

...realize we have chosen a life that involves ALWAYS saying goodbye to someone, but still wouldn't trade it for the world!

...are paralyzed every time they go down the cereal aisle at Walmart in the States...and some have been known to pass out when they see their favorite style skirt or blouse in their size in 5 colors on clearance for $6.99 at JC Penney!

...smell all the stuff that comes in a box from the US. It just smells different!

...do a second glance when passing a white person because it HAS to be someone you know.

...can't give a quick answer to the question, "Where are you from?"

...weep over and cherish a gift of scented candles and bath & body trial size lotions and gels!

...after some point stop killing the bugs and chasing the lizards out of their house and just start ignoring/living with them. (Scorpions and ticks are the only exception to this rule). If you don't squash them, you don't have to clean them up!

...wear bug repellent on an evening date with their husband.

...(the ones with boyfriends or fiancees back in the states anyways), say a SKYPE call is a date. And have only been out on a real date twice. The second time is when you get engaged.

...have kids that think white people are weird.

...have kids who think a bathroom with A/C in it is disgusting.

...make their kids use lice shampoo every week...just in case.

...use a lice comb instead of a brush to get tangles and anything else that might be in their hair!

...have memorized the book, "Where There is No Doctor".

...(Mommas) laugh when they overhear their 9-year old daughter admonishing their 4 -year old daughter (while in a bath together) that she had better stop goofing around and really enjoy this bathtub 'cause it will be all showers for the next four years.To which said 4-year old replied that she preferred showers anyway, "cold ones".

...have a thousand great stories for all these hilarious lessons learned on the job.

...drive like maniacs! (if you can't beat 'em, join 'em!)

...learn to take "You're so fat!" as a compliment. (in some countries it really is a compliment!)

...love and appreciate Facebook more than the average person!

...are scared to death of automatic flushing toilets.

...have washed their hair in a river

...regret finding out what was in the soup

...(in the Bush) use bleach like it's goin' out of style!

...bathe their kids AFTER church instead of before!

...always know where to find their children when they are attending services in their home church on furlough...at the water fountain holding up the line while they push the button over and over again to try to figure out where the water is coming from!

...are so thankful for being able to speak a foreign language while on furlough so they can chew out their kids for acting up during a meeting without most people understanding what they said!

...(in cold regions) have children who think air conditioning is the most fascinating thing!

...no longer think that "they all look alike".

...aren't bothered by seeing their husbands holding hands with another man... or by holding hands with your own lady friends!

...think they've died and gone to heaven when they walk into a craft store (A.C. Moore, Michael's, etc.).

...get so overwhelmed when they visit the States that they have a car accident after driving for 4 years accident free in their crazy traffic country (true story!).

...know how to cover up the taste of anything with mashed potatoes (in the States).

...are FLEXIBLE.

...know that bumpers are meant for bumping.

...think it's normal to leave church with lipstick kisses all over their cheek.

...can improvise in almost any situation

...forget how to work a shower properly when they go to the States for a visit, because they are used to using a bath tub instead! (or the opposite)

...can change their menu to suit what food they can find at the store

...can live without hairdressers, shoe shops, dentists, doctors, and schools.

...don't need an oven to bake a cake.

...can make a cake with out eggs.

...can sew on a hand powered sewing machine.

...become nurse and doctor to family and church members.

...can sit for hours on a bench with out a back.

...would have no problems serving in the foreign legion.

...can work quite well in the dark.

...can go from cooking dinner on a stove to outside on a fire in less than ten minutes, when the electricity goes off.

...learn fast what wood burns best and what wood just smokes.

...can sweat in style.

...hope that their children will not enter the kitchen while they are fishing the weevils out of the breakfast oatmeal.

...get choked up when they hear their home country's national anthem - in a much different way than before they went on the foreign field.

...realize their 'problems' on their particular field are so much less than they could have been elsewhere (unless you live 'elsewhere').

...(in third world countries) don't worry about clothing fashion because no one knows or cares what the latest styles are! (a perk, I must say!)

...about to go on furlough start freaking out because now they have to start caring about clothing and hair fashion!

...can NEVER throw away a Zip-lock bag! There are two stacks, the ones that still hold liquids and those that don't.

...know how to stretch a bag of chocolate chips for 6 batches of cookies!

...real missionary women, learn to adapt.

...have to ask people to repeat what they said once they return to the states because they don't understand the accent.

...cry in Walmart. Every. Time.

...buy all the Hershey's syrup they've got, because they don't know when they'll see it again. 

...constantly think in Spanglish because they can't remember their English.

...speak English in the syntax of the foreign language.

...drive like maniacs and get into wrecks because the other driver WAS following traffic laws.

...can't sleep in the States because there are no high fences around the yards.

...can't wait to go home after furlough! 

...can relate to each other across oceans, age differences, languages, and experience levels!

...admire that Mrs. Taylor, Mrs. Judson. Mrs. Carey, Amy Carmichael and many others blazed a trail without kitchen aid mixers, Skype, indoor plumbing, and monthly financial support!

...can be so lonely in a foreign city yet know in their heart they would never choose to leave!

...are crazy & our lives are crazy; but we would not change it for anything!



AND AS ONE MISSIONARY WIFE PUT IT...
Real missionary women, are all the lovely ladies out there, who are willing to decrease so that Christ can increase in their lives.
They are all willing to give up every home comfort and everything familiar to them in order to reach those wonderful people in the countries they are serving in for Christ.



We are REAL MISSIONARY WOMEN and GOD LOVES US!










































Tuesday, November 27, 2012

Christmas Fun: Quick Hot Chocolate Mix

Well, Thanksgiving is over and gone.
No more maple, apple, or pumpkin flavors in this house.
Time for the smells and flavors of Christmas!
First up is a quick hot chocolate mix, because even if it's not cold where you live, drinking hot cocoa is part and parcel of Christmas {in my opinion!}.
This recipe is not only quick, but it can be made ahead of time and be waiting in your cupboards for just the right moment!

Hot Cocoa Mix

4 c. powdered milk
1 c. powdered creamer (if not available, you can skip, but increase milk quantity by 1 cup)
3/4 c. cocoa
1/8 tsp. salt
1-2 c. sugar (your preference)

Mix together and store in a dry place.
When ready to use, add 5 Tbsp. mix to one cup of hot water.
Stir and enjoy!

Tuesday, November 20, 2012

Thanksgiving Recipe Round-Up


I'm sure everyone is busy getting ready for Thanksgiving!
I just thought I'd gather up the recipes you might need this week in one place!

No Stove-Top Stuffing where you live? Never fear! Make your own!

No Thanksgiving is complete without pumpkin desserts!
For those who like tradition ~ pumpkin pie!
And for those who want to branch out? the best pumpkin cake ever!

No Thanksgiving feast is finished without something special to drink ~ try my Nina's Cranberry Punch Recipe!

Have a wonderful time of giving thanks with family and friends, wherever you may be!

Sunday, November 18, 2012

Sunday Scriptures

 
Have a Blessed Sunday
& a Happy Thanksgiving!

Saturday, November 17, 2012

2nd Annual Christmas Blog Hop

I had so much fun looking at your photos last year,
please plan to join us again!
 
(I'll be adding a button soon!)

Tuesday, November 13, 2012

Pumpkin Spice Cake with Brown Sugar Frosting and Caramel Drizzle

    Two weeks ago we started our Fall recipes with Pumpkin Pie.
    Now maybe, though I don't know how this might be possible, you don't like pie.
    {I'm sure I heard an audible gasp somewhere!}
    Just maybe, pie isn't your thing....so you need an alternative.
    And that is what we have here today, an amazing, incredible, out-of-this-world alternative to pumpkin pie!
    May I present to you a Pumpkin Cake?
    Not just any pumpkin cake, though.
    This is a PUMPKIN SPICE CAKE WITH BROWN SUGAR FROSTING AND CARAMEL DRIZZLED ON TOP!!!
    {And yes, I know it's in all caps....that's is because I'm shouting it!}
    This recipe is incredibly delicious and extremely versatile....
    make a beautiful bundt cake for the Thanksgiving table...
    individual bundt cakes for you and your sweetie...
    cupcakes for the kiddos...
    or little sandwich cakes with dipping sauce!
    All of them are delicious!

     
    Pumpkin Spice Cake 
    For the Cake:

    1/2 cup butter, softened to room temperature
    1 cup brown sugar, packed
    2 large eggs, room temperature
    1 cup canned pumpkin (not pumpkin pie mix) or homemade pureed pumpkin
    1 1/2 teaspoons vanilla extract
    2 cups all-purpose flour
    1/4 teaspoon baking powder
    1 teaspoon baking soda
    1/2 teaspoon salt
    1 teaspoon ground cinnamon
    1/2 cup buttermilk, room temperature (can use milk and lemon juice, if needed)

    For the Brown Sugar Frosting:

    1/2 cup brown sugar
    1/4 cup butter
    3 tablespoons milk (preferably whole milk)
    1 teaspoon vanilla extract
    1 cup powdered sugar





       To Make the Cake:
       Preheat the oven to 350°F. 
      Grease pan with oil or non-stick cooking spray then flour the pan. 
      Tap out the excess and set the pan aside. Cream together the butter and sugar until light and fluffy. 
       Scrape down the sides and add the eggs, one at a time, blending and scraping down the sides of the bowl after each addition. When the eggs are fully incorporated, blend in the pumpkin and vanilla. It will look quite curdly, but that is okay! 
       In a separate bowl, whisk together the flour with the rest of the dry ingredients.
       Add about 1/3 of the flour to the butter mixture and blend until incorporated.
       Add 1/2 of the buttermilk and blend in completely. 
      Repeat with another 1/3 of the flour and blend. 
      Finish mixing the batter by adding the final 1/2 of buttermilk, mixing, then adding the final 1/3 of flour. 
      Spoon the cake batter into the prepared pan, gently smooth the top and bake the cake for 12-40 minutes (depending on the pan) or until a toothpick or skewer inserted in the thickest part of the cake comes out clean and the cake springs back when pressed lightly with your finger. 
      Transfer the pan to a cooling rack and let rest for 5 minutes before carefully turning out onto the rack to cool completely. 
       
      To Make the Frosting and Assemble the Cake: 
      Bring the brown sugar, butter, and milk to a boil, whisking constantly. 
      Boil for 1 minute, still whisking constantly. 
      Remove the pan from the heat and add the vanilla extract. 
      Be careful, it will boil up! 
      Gradually whisk in the powdered sugar. 
      Continue whisking it gently until smooth, cooled slightly and thick, about 3-5 minutes. Place the cooled cake on a cake plate or serving platter and immediately pour warm frosting over the cake. 
      Let the frosting rest for 5 minutes, then drizzle with caramel. 
      {Don't have any caramel? Try this!}
      Store leftovers, well covered, at room temperature for up to 3 days. 
       
       

Friday, November 9, 2012

Fellowship Fridays - Thankfulness

To Americans around the world November is the month we celebrate Thanksgiving.  Though we should be thankful year round, it seems that our thoughts become more contemplative and thankful this time of year.  Please share some ways that you help make Thanksgiving special to your family in the country you are serving!

Thursday, November 8, 2012

Are we really living out Christ to our "neighbor?"



Karen and her husband Deon are from South Africa. Deon came here to work as a geologist for a mining company. We met them some months ago when they came through to survey the area. Both of them are Christians. Karen and I enjoy many of the same books. She is creative, and has a heart for people. And they just moved into their home, which is a short walk from our house. 

She invited me over today for a visit. Our conversation was a like a noodle going from one topic to the next. We talked about a book she is writing, books we are reading, art, sewing, and walking out our Christian faith on a daily basis.

Karen told me about a recent incident that occurred while they were staying at a local Hotel which is right on Lake Victoria. Two teenage boys got caught in a storm and drown. One boy's body washed ashore, but the other boy's had not. Deon and Karen tried to help by encouraging the family, buying them something to drink as they sat there hour after hour waiting. Deon even dove into to the tempestuous lake to try and find the body.

There was another two men there that day - both missionaries. They knew of the situation, but didn't do anything. They didn't comfort the family. They didn't pray with them. They just continued on with their day at the beach.

As Karen told me this story I thought to myself, "How often am I that way? How many opportunities to share the love of Christ with someone did I pass up because it wasn't in the box I live in and consider my ministry?" So stop and ask yourself if you have fallen into this trap of not seeing your "neighbor" that is in need, but rather walking right past, minding your own business, or even heading off to do your ministry. 

I would love to get some conversation going about this topic. In what ways are you convicted to change? In what ways have you shared Christ's love with your "neighbor?" What suggestions do you have, or what pitfalls do you warn us of? I think this topic is well worth discussing so we can all do better at living out Christ to those around us, and not just to those we are ministering to.

Monday, November 5, 2012

Missionary Monday ~ A Month of Thanksgiving

 
This month's theme - Thanksgiving
Let's take this month to show our gratefulness to our Lord.
 
Please link up your blog or leave a comment...
 
What are you thankful for?
 
 
 
 

Friday, November 2, 2012

Fellowship Fridays - Thankfulness


30 Days of Thankfulness


This month I've decided to post something (on my blog) I'm thankful for... every day.  If you would like to join us here or on Facebook, please do!  Each day post one (or more) thing(s) you are thankful for.  If you post on your blog please come and link up here every Friday!

I am thankful most of all for salvation.  I am also thankful for the husband and children God has given me.  He's been so good to me.  

 

Tuesday, October 30, 2012

Pumpkin Pie

Since October is almost over and November is knocking at the door,
I figured it was about time to share some Fall recipes.
Fall is my absolute favorite season, but since we don't have it in Ghana,
I just pretend.
I decorate my house with colored leaves and scarecrows and acorns and pine cones and pumpkins, and then I cook anything and everything that makes me think of Fall!
If it smells of cinnamon or apples or pumpkins, it is in!
What shouts Fall better than pumpkin pie?
I'm sure you have a recipe, but trust me when I tell you that this is the best one there is.
Everybody who eats it asks for the recipe.
And not only is it delicious, it is super easy!
My mom swears her mother got it off the back of a can of pumpkin puree.
I've also heard it is the recipe that Martha uses.
Can Martha and my Nina both be wrong???
I don't think so!

Pumpkin Pie

3/4 c. white sugar
1/2 tsp. salt
1 tsp. cinnamon
2 large eggs
2 c. pumpkin puree (NOT pumpkin pie mix!)
      {this can be either homemade or canned}
1 1/2 c. evaporated milk

 1 raw pie shell (your recipe)

 Preheat oven to 425 degrees.
Mix dry ingredients together.
Mix wet ingredients together.
Mix both together.
Pour into shell.
Bake for 15 minutes at 425 degrees.
Reduce heat to 350 degrees and bake for 30-50 minutes (depending on your oven),
or until a knife inserted near center comes out clean.

You may want to cover the edges with tin foil if they start to darken too quickly.

Enjoy with whipped cream or vanilla ice cream!

Monday, October 29, 2012

Missionary Monday ~ Preparing for the Holidays

 
This week's theme - How do you prepare for the holidays?
Do you celebrate thanksgiving?  Do you have family ship favorite Thanksgiving foods?
Have you already started shopping for Chirstmas?
 
 
Next week's theme - Thanksgiving
What are you thankful for?
We will keep this theme throughout the month of November.
 
 

Sunday, October 28, 2012

Friday, October 26, 2012

Fellowship Fridays - Deputation

Deputation

Packing


I questioned the missionary ladies on our Facebook group page about this subject and several of them gave some great tips for packing on deputation or furlough!  PLease feel free to leave any suggestion you may have in the comments below!

We, 3 women and 2 guys have found taking a brown skirt/ suit and a black skirt/ suit and pairing everything with them works well. We also make sure we travel with casual/town clothes because a person never knows what we will get into during the day. Comfy shoes and clothes are always a welcome.  (The Arctic of Canada)

I try to pack for no more than 5 days. When we were in the states on furlough I just began going to the good will stores if I found I needed something. And then I purchased extra and left clothes at our daughter's house for when we return. Hoping just to take a carry on. If one has kids I am sure that is rather difficult because they are always changing in sizes, but I also figured I would just have to wash more often. It gets very tiresome hauling around a lot of luggage. I also took an extra suitcase so if we wanted to bring some things back with us. It is all in how one can plan if there is family that has room to help like with us leaving things to wear behind so we don't have to pack too much it aughta work out great. This is the first time we are trying this but it sounds like it might have possibilities. (Guatemala)

 If you have a one night stay on the way to somewhere..pack a carry-on type suitcase with everyone's change of clothes..and one bag with toiletries..make sure these bags are easily accessible..it's easier to take out one or two bags instead of 10..and then needing to repack the whole van, if it's just a one night stay. One other thing I thought of..if possible, try not to pack your vehicle too tight when you leave to go on the road for a few weeks or months. A lot of churches/individuals will bless you by giving clothes..food..other misc. gifts and you will need some room to pack the extras that you pick up on the way. (India)

My family of 4 travelled in a VW Golf (small car) for the first part of deputation and later a Subaru Impreza (medium size car), so we didn't have a lot of room. I had one bag for all toiletry items and I had one small suitcase that contained pjs, undergarments, one set of clothing for each of us, etc, then when we stayed at a hotel we could just grab the toiletry bag and small suitcase. My kids each had one small suitcase and my husband and I shared a larger suitcase. The kids each had a small crate next to their seats, in it they kept their toys. We also carried clorox wipes and baby wipes. :) All our items for our display table were kept in another small suitcase, and we also had a large wooden display for our table. It was quite cramped, but we made such fond memories in those cars. (Australia)

That sounds like how we packed! And we STILL do the 'one night on the way' both of us in one small suitcase thing when back in the States. One other thing I do yet is roll up one set of socks, tshirt and underwear together so that it is easy to just grab one each a.m. to put on and a bag to fill up as we go for laundry. (Japan)

1. I normally take one black skirt, one white skirt, and one or two denim skirts and multiple shirts and accessories (enough for 5-6 days). 2. If you have room in your vehicle, it can be quite nice to have a hanging bar and put your dress clothes on that rather than folding then in a suitcase and then having to iron them all the time  (Vanuatu)

The longer we were on deputation the fewer bags we ended up taking. You can live without a lot of things when you need to. Our biggest thing was having a small bag for short trips and a larger bag for longer trips. I also prepared an overnight toiletry bag and an extended stay toiletry bag. Flying always messed up our routine because we would cram stuff in our van for extra things. I would only ask my husband how long the next trip would be and what climate. It's best if you can hang you're clothes up and just pick out what you need. There is no way around having a lot of stuff with kids. We usually bought diapers wherever we went to save on room. Somehow everything finds a place or gets taken out. We also had extra plastic bags for trash, then threw it away when we got to our destination. Kept the car so much cleaner. We also had a box just for snacks. My son still thinks your supposed to eat when you get in the car. It will also keep your husband awake! Enjoy the journey and do fun things along the way. (Japan)

Monday, October 22, 2012

Missionary Monday ~ Your Choice

 
This week's theme - Your Choice
That's right, it's your choice!  Link up your favorite post,
or simply link up your blog.  This is a great time to let us know you're here!
 
 
Next Week's Theme - How do you prepare for the holidays?
Share your tips on how you prepare for Thanksgiving and Christmas.
 
 
Have an idea for a weekly theme?  Please leave a comment!
 
 
 
 

Sunday, October 21, 2012

Tuesday, October 16, 2012

Breakfast Time: Breakfast Casserole



Good Morning (Afternoon or Evening)!
Today's breakfast dish is from Joy Gibson who lives in {my favorite city!} New York where her family shares Christ with the Jews.
I've not tried this dish, but it sounds delicious!


BREAKFAST CASSEROLE
1 lb sausage*
6 slices bread, cubed (white works best)
1 cup grated cheese

6 eggs
2 cups milk
1 tsp. salt
1 tsp. dry mustard (or 1/2 tsp mustard)

DIRECTIONS:
Brown sausage and drain.  Beat eggs, milk, salt and mustard until frothy and set aside.  Grease a 9x13 pan.  Cover bottom of pan with bread cubes.  Layer sausage (or other meat/veggies of your choice) next.  Top off with grated cheese.  Lastly, pour the egg mixture evenly over the dish, making sure all sections are moistened.  Cover and refrigerate overnight.  Bake at 350, uncovered, for 40-45 minutes, or until set and lightly browned.

ALTERNATIVES:
Instead of (or along with) the sausage, use 1 lb. of anything you might imagine in an omelet:  Ham, crispy bacon, peppers, mushrooms, green onion, caramelized onions (yum), zucchini, tomatoes, spinach and feta cheese, etc.

Fresh or frozen vegetables work wonderfully, but adjust the seasonings accordingly (there is a lot of sodium in sausage, so the recommended salt above may need a boost if you skip the meat).  I toss fresh veggies with a bit olive oil and Fajita style seasonings—salt, black or cayenne pepper, lemon and  garlic powder.  For brunch,  I’ve even done it with fresh broccoli, and it turned out very quiche-like.  Frozen veggies can go on straight from the freezer (do season, though) and reduce milk to 1 ¾ cup. (I don’t recommend frozen broccoli unless you like it soft.)

SO…pick your favorite fillers, sprinkle on top of the diced bread, cover with cheese, and pour egg mixture on top.  Refrigerate overnight, and pop it in the oven while you get ready for your day.  (Just don’t take too long in the shower!)   Enjoy!!

Thank you, Joy!