Me, Me… Oh My!!! And I Thought We were Just Taking a Cruise…

By Beth Duewel

“The Lord is my rock, my fortress and my deliverer:

My God is my rock, in whom I take refuge…”

(Psalm 18:2)

I woke to the drift of the balmy sea. I’d waited 25 years for an anniversary cruise with my husband, and so my rested body jumped eagerly out of bed before the suns rays pounced on the cabin window.

No lunches to pack. No searching for missing football socks. No scrambling to make the school bus. No,no,no. This day was all about me, mee, meee. Yipeee! Oh and Jerry, too.

I headed to the bathroom to prepare for our first adventure on a tropical island. Of course, I left the light off, giving my honey a few more moments to slumber.

You know in horror movies how you can sense a scary moment looming with mood music and a dark tumultuous scene? And you know how you just want to yell “TURN THE LIGHT ON DUMMY!” and forewarn the innocent victim of impending danger… well, there was none of that.

I marched unknowingly into the miniature bathroom, grabbed my toothbrush, and began brushing my pearly whites with vigor. A few seconds into my regimen the verse from Revelation 3:16 rang true to my taste buds, “…I am about to spit you out of my mouth.” Waaaaay out! I flicked on the light to see a tube of ICY HOT returned to the toothpaste cup. Horrors!!! At that moment I could only assume I rubbed my legs down with toothpaste in the middle of the night.

My tongue was like a lit match. I was one icy-hot mess! Now, since I don’t make a habit of brushing with Icy Hot. And because my mouth was on fire, I started mouthing muffled toothbrush sounds hoping my husband would investigate. He did.

He asked questions I couldn’t answer with a numb tongue. In between rinsing, I declared in foamy manner, “I bwuthed my theeth with Ithee Hot???” For a few brief seconds Jerry refrained from laughing. Obviously, he didn’t get the “all about me” memo I thought I sent out before we departed.

While he stood in the doorway, he professed remorse. And I could tell—through his laugh induced tears—that he was “thruly” sorry. You see, it had been his job to unpack the health and beauty supplies. Too bad he unpacked them in the wrong places.

Then, before I left the tiny cubicle (a cruise ship’s version of a bathroom), I realized I had dropped several tear-filled Kleenex on the floor. When I stooped down to pick them up, however, my bottom-end met the squatty-potty (a cruise ship’s version of a toilet), with such force it was unparallel to any wedgie I’d ever experienced. My lower back ached with pain. It looked like I would need the toothpaste again that night.

With the early morning events, it became very clear the trip was all about me. Yes indeed! All about me killing myself before my toes ever tickled the Caribbean sand. With a sore back and deep-fried taste buds, we headed out for more adventure. Oh, there was more. Much more.

When we stopped at Tortola to take one of our fantastic excursions, I faintly recall the guide warning to watch the tide, that there were no life guards on duty, and some muffling noise about staying away from the dangerous rocks, but my mind was already splashing in the water. On the way down the trail my husband and I could hardly hold ourselves back from an all-out run to the shore.

With no kids underfoot, both of us were eager to have fun. The day was beautiful, not a cloud in the sky. The waves rolled in blue like bubbling whipping cream as people played in the surf between two heaps of massive rock.

We couldn’t wait to get in the water. When we did the temperature was a perfect 85 degrees on a 95 degree day. Finally, we swam out to the invisible barrier that drew a line between the rocks edge and then relaxed and doggy paddled. Ahhh.

Not long into my lounging though I felt a tug on my body, noticing the tide felt a little extra sucky that day. Sucky like when the end of the vacuum hose doesn’t want to let go of my daughter’s extra fluffy sock. That kind of suction. And one look at my husband’s face confirmed my thoughts. We were definitely being pulled out…way out.

I don’t know how much time went by because time seems to blur when you’re in a panic, but I remember waving at people standing on the beach. Then, I remembered there was no lifeguard. That’s when I saw Jerry heading for the rocks.

Now, one thing I am is a rule follower! Even in my fright, I remember the warnings about the rocks. “Stay away” was all I heard in my head to the beat of my own heart pounding. But through the noise and the water plummeting over my head, I saw Jerry hanging onto a rock and yelling for me to swim over. There comes a point in every person’s life they succumb to something greater than themselves. I did. I went for the rock!

Twenty-five years ago I clung to another Rock and asked Jesus Christ to be my Lord and Savior. Gods forgiveness was gracious that day. Because I think it’s pretty clear if left to my own will and selfish ambitions there is a good chance (a very good chance) I wouldn’t survive. Me, me, oh, my!

So, I am praising God for yet another day that He saved me from myself. My wanting to control, my need for comfort, my less than self-less motivations; all like an undertow, slow and unobtrusive at first, but able to carry me places I surely don’t want to go. So I cling to the Rock, cling to faith, and trust that I am “thruly” “thruly” loved.

Going on a Cruise? Remember to Pack these Essentials:

:

• Icy Hot-In a jar marked with a glow in the dark “X.”
• Toothpaste- Large tube for all those aches and pains.
• Watch- One that tells the correct time so you don’t run late catching a taxi and almost miss the boat.
• Extra clothes- In case you miss the boat.
• Extra cash (preferably $1 bills.)- Because the taxi drivers on St. Lucia don’t take credit cards.
• Juicy Fruit gum- To pay the taxi driver just in case you forget to bring enough cash. And just in case you are curious, if you forget your wallet it takes two packs of Juicy Fruit, an apple, $3 and a very gracious taxi driver to get to the beach on St. Lucia. But I’m just guessing. Really. Smile.

Beth Duewel is a freelance writer and speaker living in Ohio with her family. She continues to cling, and bask in the fact that she is "thruly" loved by God. You can send her an email atfourwheelfive@aol.com.

Easy Entertaining Recipes

By LeAnn Rice

Looking for some easy recipes for your next get together? Here are two of my favorites.

Honey Ham Biscuits

1 package Bisquick honey-butter biscuit mix
1 container honey nut or pineapple cream cheese spread
Sliced ham

Prepare the biscuit dough according to package directions. Gently roll out the dough as directed on package. Cut biscuits with 1½-inch biscuit cutter and bake, according to package directions or until golden.

Split the biscuits with a serrated knife and spread both sides with cream cheese. Place ham between layers and sandwich together.

These can be prepared ahead of time and wrapped in foil. Heat in a 350° oven for about 20 minutes or until warmed through.


Icing-In-The-Cake German Chocolate Cake

1 (18.25 oz) German Chocolate Cake Mix
1 (15 oz) Coconut-Pecan Frosting
4 eggs
1/2 cup oil
1 cup water

Preheat oven to 350º. Spray pan with non-stick cooking spray. This can be made in either a 9” x 13” pan or Bundt pan. Baking time is the same on either one.

Mix all ingredients (including the icing), in mixer at medium speed for 2 minutes. Pour into prepared pan and bake 50-60 minutes. Remove from oven to wire rack and allow cooling for 10 minutes. Invert onto serving plate and dust with powdered sugar.

LeAnn Rice shares recipes and menu ideas along with a helping of grace through her food site, www.SheCooks.org. She lives in North Carolina with her teenage son, Nick, who sadly prefers frozen pizza to his mom’s cooking experiments.

I Stopped Giving It All at Christmas

By Lara Krupicka


“Please let me give flowers to my teacher,” my daughter begged that first year we were introduced to Teacher Appreciation Week. But out in my yard the only blooms visible were rows of wilting daffodils.

“Can it wait a few weeks?” I asked. My daughter cried. Within a few minutes, however, I had her excited at the prospect of the bright pink peonies and deep purple irises yet to bloom. More tears were shed that week as she daily recounted the flowers and gifts other children brought for the teacher. But, two weeks later she returned from school bursting to share how her flowers brightened the teacher’s day and her empty vase. That day I learned the value of bucking tradition when it comes to gifts.

If you’re like me, sometime in late October the anxiety begins to build. By Thanksgiving it’s a palpable knot in your stomach, and by mid-December it has become full-out panic. In the name of tradition and expectation we push ourselves to stressful heights during the annual holiday season. And chances are, at the end of each one we vow not to do it again. Yet October rolls around and… stress again. What to do? Change it up! Stop the old, stressful tradition and start a new one. Stop giving gifts to everyone on your list at Christmas. Instead, give your gifts of appreciation to people like your hairdresser, the mailman and yes, the school teacher, at other times of the year. You’ll find that spreading out your gratitude will result in benefits for both your recipients and for you.

Thoughtfulness

You’ll benefit by having the ability to be more thoughtful in choosing your gifts. With a self-imposed, flexible deadline, rather than one dictated by the calendar, you can find space to be creative and considerate. There will be no more last-minute dashes to the store to grab some old something for the doctor or babysitter.
Not only that, but the thoughtfulness becomes more apparent when the gift does not arrive at the traditionally appointed time. A few years ago I started giving teacher gifts during October and November. Having seen the mounds of gifts some teachers receive in December and the less-than-enthusiastic reception they induce behind closed doors, there is no doubt tradition equates with obligation for some people. And that defeats the purpose. My October gifts are separated from the season of obligation, and as such, stand a better chance of being appreciated for their sincerity. Rather than showing up in obligatory fashion, my gifts arrive unannounced, unexpected.

One year, my youngest daughter particularly enjoyed giving her teacher a fall gift. She giggled as we created the padded pumpkin, wrapping a roll of toilet paper (more giggles) in cushy batting and patterned fabric. And she proudly inserted the stick she’d found in our yard in the pumpkin’s top as a “stem”. The next day she stood erect in the line at school, clasping the gift bag to her chest. Later that afternoon, she leaned into my arm as I read the note from the teacher. “Thank you for the adorable pumpkin. It’s the only fall decoration I have for my desk. How thoughtful of you.” It made not only the teacher’s day, but my daughter’s as well.


Focus on the Recipient

Taking the time to think through and act on what would be most meaningful to our beneficiaries can greatly enhance the value of a simple gift. When during the year could they use the appreciation and encouragement the most? What gift or gesture would speak to them personally? Putting the focus on our recipient means watching, listening and learning about them in an effort to truly appreciate them individually. Instead of following our timeline or our “to do” list in a mechanical fashion, we act on a timeframe more suited to those we seek to bless. That speaks volumes. It elevates the value of the gift by virtue of being other-focused.

As church nursery coordinator I saw the need for this in my gifts to the nursery volunteers. I baked them cinnamon rolls in December in a nod to tradition. But then in February, when cabin fever reached its height and the end of the term seemed far away, I gave each of them a gift: an encouraging book I’d selected for specifically for each of them, along with a hand-written note expressing my gratitude. The impact of my timing led one of my volunteers to come thank me for my encouragement to her.

Freedom and Peace

Other rewards for bestowing appreciation gifts outside the frenzy of the winter holidays include freedom and peace. My holiday gift-buying list shrinks by at least a dozen when I shift the timing of my gifts of gratitude. This frees up space for baking, or entertaining, or even shopping for gifts for family members. It reduces the load of holiday preparations to a manageable size. I’m less stressed and it shows in everything I do during December.

We need to rethink giving our gifts of appreciation at Christmas. It may mean explaining to people our intentions, to counter any expectations related Christmas gift-giving traditions. But in doing so, we’ll lighten our own load and open the door to a season of peace and joy. We’ll bring our gifts into an open time frame; one better suited to the needs of those we’re giving to. And we’ll have more time, both for considering the gifts we give to those we appreciate and for those gifts remaining on our list for the holidays.

Why not give yourself a break this year and take appreciation gifts off your holiday “to do” list? You might come off as the best giver ever when you spread out the blessings over the entire year.

Lara Krupicka is a wife and mother to three tween girls. She writes and speaks regularly about gift giving, hospitality, and finding simple ways to live the abundant life Jesus promises us. Lara is also the author of Pampering Gifts: Crafting a Ministry of Treating People Well for Less.

The Hold of Hoarding

By Johanna Tooke

Maybe one of God’s greatest gifts to us is misery and suffering. After all, without them we’d continue to walk obliviously through life as though nothing were wrong. Like any normal human being I was doing my best to avoid undue pain. My strategy was a simple one: Do good, make things look good, and life will be good.

At all costs (literally at times) I wanted to avoid repeating pain or remembrance of it from life’s past. What’s more, I was convinced if I saved anything from my life that had represented a good memory or a happy time, somehow the darker times would fade out with the tangible memory of things from happy times. As if that weren’t enough, I had reasoned by having a passel of possessions I could single-handedly create happy memories.

My strategy was foiled by the time it took to not only keep track of, care for and organize the possessions, but create the happy memories in between. My memories- “instead of happy” were becoming prominently miserable. This problem of mine was hoarding or in kinder terms- excessive saving.

Hoarding had never even been a consideration in my litany of life dilemmas. Among the complaints on my exhaustive list were: never enough time to exercise, a lack of money to buy organizing essentials, a lack of time to organize and have a workable system, a husband who lacked a vision to see the potential behind all of my belongings and moreover a vision of what could be done with them to glorify God. Yes, I had wrapped religion into being a justifiable reason to keep whatever I deemed worthy.

I knew I kept a lot, but I also believed I was honoring God by having the items. When in all reality, I was trying to play God by keeping things and hoping I wouldn’t have to depend on Him for the things “I could handle.”

Since hoarding had never even entered into my conscientiousness, all I knew was I was miserable. Each consecutive day seemed harder then the day prior and circumstances seemed dimmer. Waking up in the morning was stifling and meandering through the day felt more like a convoluted maze. I began feverishly reading self help books on organizing and de-cluttering. Several years later and heaps mounting higher than ever before, I felt hopeless. As I swirled in the abyss of confusion, I called a professional organizer as a final effort.

Without mincing words she told me what my husband had all along, “Whoa you have a lot of stuff.” Okay, so she couldn’t stop exclaiming in between breaths how much I had. Her reaction to my basement sent me reeling. We made a plan to help me stop the influx of stuff and begin the outtake. Once we parted ways, I spent every spare moment doing my best to clean and cull. Bravely I’d pack another box full of things we weren’t using, ready to be hauled off. My efforts seemed to be paying off. Except I noticed instead of experiencing freedom, I was feeling suffocated and smothered by this new lifestyle.

Still determined, I continued to zealously makeover our home. That was until one day I had a stomach ache I couldn’t shake. When the pain was intolerable a visit to the emergency room was in order. A couple of days later in the hospital, I felt as though there was more than a bug that had paid me a visit. I was reminded of Psalm 23:2, “He makes me lie down in green pastures; He leads me beside still waters.” While I didn’t have angels hovering over my hospital bed delivering a message, I encountered a stillness I hadn’t known for some time. Moreover, I had gotten to spend time praying and reading my Bible, disciplines I had abandoned until the house was placed in proper order.

Before I headed home I recommitted myself to be faithful in reading my Bible, journaling and giving God my day before it took off without me. The next morning I flipped open my Bible to the ribbon that held its place in the New Testament. That day’s reading was in Matthew 23. I was caught by the words in verse 26: “Blind Pharisee! First clean the inside of the cup and dish, and then the outside also will be clean.”

“Wait,” I thought, “the Bible does have a thing or two to say about cleaning house.” After calling upon a wiser friend in Christ, I confirmed what I had suspected: I had been cleaning house in precisely the opposite order Jesus had intended. I had been so immersed in scouring, decorating, organizing, and saving ALL for the outside- I had given hardly any thought to the inside. At once I felt relief wash over me with a healthy dose of insufficiency to humbly level me; leveling me to the foot of the cross where my real help could be found.

Three years have passed since my hospital visit. Since then trailer loads of things have backed out of our driveway. As a family we are still vigilantly attempting to live with less. Now, instead of turning only to man’s wisdom to weave my way out of the colossal messes, I turn to God’s Word. Regardless of the battle, we fight with the same weapons. “The weapons we fight with are not the weapons of the world. On the contrary, they have divine power to demolish strongholds.” (2 Corinthians 10:4)

Johanna Tooke lives in Forsyth, Montana with her husband Ryan, and three children: Gracie (10); and twins Royce and Katie (7). In between family, friends and country living, Johanna leads Bible Studies for girls and women. Her hope is to encourage women of all ages in their walk of faith with Jesus Christ. For more on Johanna’s journey, go to www.johannatooke.com.

Editor’s Note: Hoarding can be a sign that an individual needs more help than a book or a friend can provide. If you know someone who hoards, please visit The Institute for Challenging Disorganization (www.challengingdisorganization.org) for resources.

If you need a little extra push to get organized, please consider purchasing one of these two resources by our own Proverbs 31 Ministries writers: “I Used to Be So Organized”
by Glynnis Whitwer and “The Complete Guide to Getting and Staying Organized” by Karen Ehman.

Count Your Blessings

By LeAnn Rice


Give thanks to the Lord, for he is good; his steadfast love endures forever!
(Psalm 118:1)

His steadfast love endures forever! Reason number one to be thankful!

All of us have good days and bad days. It’s part of life. But no matter how bad the bad days are, we can always hold on to this truth: The King is still on the throne and His love is steadfast and true and always. You simply can’t escape it!

As a young widow with a child, I experienced many “bad days” in the past 14 years (especially during the toddler years). There were days when I thought I wouldn’t make it another 24 hours without some help. But God never left my side and, over the years I started to notice the little blessings that each day held.

Whether you are experiencing the loss of a loved one, chronic illness, financial hardship, addiction, marital stress or other painful situations, you can find something to be grateful for each day. Looking for these blessings will refocus your thoughts toward Him, instead of your situation.

Honestly, this hasn’t always been easy. I have had days when all I could find to be grateful for was that the sun was shining or that I could actually get myself out of bed that morning. But, day by day I forced myself to count my blessings and eventually, I started to notice them all around me.

You may not be experiencing a rough patch. You may just be in the midst of a “normal” but hectic life and have a desire to develop an attitude of gratitude. Thanksgiving is a great time to focus on the things we are thankful for and get into the habit of thankfulness! Isn’t it easy to complain about the things that are inconvenient, frustrating, not going our way, etc? Just this week I found myself complaining about my piles of laundry. I should have been grateful that I have running water and a working washer and dryer when so many in our world do not have these items that I take for granted.

What about you? Do you struggle to notice the simple blessings in the midst of your hectic days? Are you experiencing a challenging time and really need to see some “good” right about now?

Here are a few practical ways to count your blessings that may become a new Thanksgiving tradition in your home.

Create a Blessing Box- Make or purchase a simple or ornate box (if you have kids, perhaps they can make and decorate one). Place cute notes or strips of paper, along with a pen, beside the box. Display the box, paper and pen in a location where everyone will see it several times a day. I like to place mine in the center of my kitchen table. At least once each day have everyone in the family write something they have to be grateful for on a strip of paper and place it inside the box. Do this throughout the year and then read the strips together in the weeks leading up to Thanksgiving.

* Keep a Blessing Journal

Keep a journal beside your bed. Before you go to bed each night, write down at least three things that happened to you that day that you are grateful for. It could be as simple and wonderful as a child’s smile or laughter. It could be that you had enough money to fill your gas tank. Maybe a long soaking rain started right after you did some planting. Write down anything that you were grateful for that day. When you are having a rough day, pull out your journal and read through your blessings as a reminder that there is much to be grateful for, even in the midst of life’s challenging circumstances.

* Give a Good Night Blessing

When you tuck your kids in at night, ask them to tell you one good thing about their day. This ends their day on a positive note and gets them in the habit of noticing the blessings. Perhaps, keep a journal beside their beds as well!

* Create a Blessing Chain

You know those paper chains kids make in school? Make one out of blessings! Cut up strips of red and green paper a few weeks before Thanksgiving. Have your kids write down blessings on the strips and then staple together to form a chain. When you decorate your Christmas tree, place your blessing chain on the tree, around the bottom of the tree or on the mantle. Your decorations will be covered in blessings! This makes a great conversation piece, and provides the opportunity to share the Gospel with visitors!

* Make a Blessing Tree

Instead of making a chain out of the strips of paper, punch holes in the strips, tie a pretty ribbon through the hole, and then hang strips of blessings on a tree. You can do this for Thanksgiving or Christmas, just select the color of paper and ribbons to match the occasion! You can even use a large twig with lots of branches as your tree, or a houseplant, or make one on poster paper and tape on your blessings.

* Give a Treasury of God’s Promises

If you know someone who’s going through a difficult time, consider creating a box for them and fill it with God’s promises personalized just for them. Imagine opening the box and reading, “My plan for your future, Gabriel, is filled with hope.” I have created a free template with 100 of God’s promises ready for you to customize. Simply purchase or create a box, personalize the promises, print and cut them into strips, fold the strips and place in the box, and then tie the box with a beautiful ribbon. Perfect gift for any occasion! You can find the free template by visiting www.SheCooks.org and clicking on “Resources.” Scroll down to the middle of the page and you will see the template.

Sweet friends, I pray that your blessings will be too numerous to count and that God will reveal Himself to you in the most unexpected ways.

LeAnn Rice is the Executive Director of Proverbs 31 Ministries. She lives with her 17-year-old son, Nick, and their ornery cat, Angel, in a small town just outside of Charlotte, NC. LeAnn is co-author of the book “Untangling Christmas: Your Go-To Guide for a Hassle-Free Holiday,” an e-book filled with recipes, organization and gift suggestions, as well as tangible outreach ideas and ways to seek our Savior during the holiday. LeAnn shares recipes, grace, and southern hospitality on www.SheCooks.org and hope and inspiration on her site www.AWidowsMight.org.

Simplify Christmas

Looking for ways to simplify your Christmas? Try these ideas from the P31 staff and start making more of the Christmas season--with less.


One way our family simplifies holiday gatherings is to take the potluck approach to dinner. The host family prepares a turkey and/or ham and other family members bring side dishes, desserts and disposable tableware. We organize who is bringing what via email. This takes a lot of pressure off of the host family and spreads the cost and responsibility among everyone.

Janet Burke, Assistant Editor, P31 Woman


My family is very simple in our Christmas outdoor decorating. We might have a wreath and a strand of lights around the door. On Christmas Eve, our home takes on a more traditional decoration: Luminarias. I grew up, and still live, in Arizona. This is a traditional Southwestern tradition that has spread across the country. Here, on Christmas Eve, we line our walkways with paper bags, lit from within by candles sitting in a bit of sand. It’s very simple, but it’s a way to welcome Jesus to our world.

Glynnis Whitwer, Editor, P31 Woman


Until Christmas Eve, nothing goes under the tree except the nativity scene. That way we focus on the true gift of Christmas and… everyone that comes over asks us why there is only a nativity scene under our tree, so it provides an opportunity to share our hearts.

We hang a stocking for Jesus. I ask visitors not to bring gifts but, instead, bring a gift card to a local grocery store. We give the cards to our pastor so he can distribute to needy families during the holidays.

LeAnn Rice, Executive Director

Give the gifts of gold, frankincense, and myrrh. Instead of flooding your family members with gifts in large numbers, focus on quality instead. Narrow your choices down to a few significant items that communicate love, inspire creativity, and encourage growth in Christ.

Adopt the advent calendar. Lengthen your season of celebration by following an advent calendar. Try spreading your special traditions and events over the weeks leading up to and following Christ’s birth, instead of cramming everything into a couple of whirlwind days.

Make it personal. Instead of buying into the commercialization of Christmas, consider which decorations, foods, or gifts you and your family members can make. Discover the joy and satisfaction of being creative together.

Carve out quiet times. Gather your favorite Christmas books and your Bible, and commit to a time of quiet each day. Read a short selection, sip some tea, and slow down long enough to take it all in.

Reach out. What do you do best during the holidays? And what do those close to you do best? Offer to exchange skills to maximize your time and abilities. Allow others to help with things that burden you—and offer your help in areas that light you up.

Don’t overdo it. Make a list of the most cherished parts of your holiday celebration—making sure to get your family’s input. Stick to those things that are truly meaningful and keep you focused on Christ. Allow these to take deeper root in your family’s traditions and let the less significant, distracting things go.

Janine Petry, P31 Woman Editing Team

Last Christmas my husband and I committed to spending less money on the “stuff” of Christmas and spending more time on the “spirit” of it. That meant we needed to get creative about gift giving. Instead of traditional presents, we gave the gift of our presence. We looked at our relationships and decided how we could invest time in each of them. Then we got busy making coupons. I gave my husband coupons for coffee dates, dinner and movie dates, long walks and even some to “get off the computer now!” We made coupons for things like weekly phone calls to long-distance parents, quarterly lunches with out-of-touch siblings and offers to help with home improvements. Our families loved these presents and best of all our gifts kept giving long after the wrappings of Christmas were thrown away. It’s a tradition we plan to continue.

Kelli Regan, P31 Woman Editing Team

It Came Upon a Twilight Clear

By Patsy O’Shea

I have always admired and coveted those beautifully decorated Christmas trees that are in department stores and magazines. The decorations on them are so in sync with their individualized colors and themes. If there are classes on tree decorating or a how-to manual, I haven’t attended the class or read the book.

You see, if I were to describe to you the decorations on my annual Christmas tree, in comparison to those in a department stores, it would be called “Hand-Me Down” There’s no particular color or theme carried throughout my tree.

Most ornaments placed on our tree were given to us as an expression of love. Baby’s First Christmas ornaments, those from cherished girl friends, and ornaments our children made in school as gifts to mom and dad. Then, there are ornaments from friends who have moved far away, but left lasting impressions on our hearts and lives. Each year when I bring out the box of decorations, I sit and reminisce over each ornament and the one who gave it.

But there is one particular ornament that brings tears to my eyes every year. It too has become a part of my special tree ornament collection. It arrived one snowy evening many years ago.

With only one week away until Christmas, my two elementary aged children and I were working furiously in the kitchen making our Christmas cookies. The room could only be described, and remembered by a mother, as a Norman Rockwell moment.

My young children’s faces and hair were dusted with flour. Their little hands and lips showed signs of licks from colored frosting and stuck on sprinkles. Our counters and table held a variety of bowls of cookie dough, and plastic Christmas cutters. Cups of hot chocolate overflowed with mounds of marshmallows. The room itself was filled with Christmas music and the aroma of fresh baked cookies.

During these very nostalgic moments, my door bell rang. I quickly wiped my hands on my apron and I rushed to answer it. As the light went on, I looked down, and to my surprise stood a small little boy. He was holding a flat white box.

The light revealed a worn coat and hat that wouldn’t have been warm enough on that cold, snowy night. As I opened the outer storm door, my eye caught a glimpse of an older model station wagon parked next to our street curb, with its lights dimmed and motor running.

We greeted each other, but before telling me his reason for being there he opened the lid of his box. Inside, on top of white tissue paper, laid neatly placed handmade clear plastic beaded ornaments. They were in the shape of Christmas wreaths. Each one had a red velvet ribbon tied at the bottom. Some were larger than others. Some were all green, while others were crystal clear. Each had a small price tag stuck on it. The smaller ones were $1, the medium were $3, and there was one in the middle. It was the largest and it was $5.

When the boy spoke, he told me that his mother had made each one, and they were selling them to make money to buy Christmas presents. He then pointed to the big one in the middle and said, “This one is the prettiest.”

I was flooded with mixed emotions. I wanted to pick him up and hug him. I wanted to invite him in for cookies and hot chocolate. But, I thought what I really needed to do at that very moment was to show respect that was due and treat his visit to my home as a normal business transaction. For all I knew, this may have been their only means of buying gifts that year.


I agreed to make a purchase. While leaving the door to get money, I noticed the boy turning back to look at the car. Perhaps it was a gesture to say a sale had been made.

Unfortunately, the only cash on hand was a $10 bill. I wanted to buy every one of the ornaments; however I knew a check wouldn’t do. Returning to the door, I made my selections very carefully to equal the money I had. To his delight, I included the prettiest one in the middle.

Each year as I put my tree up and place all my love ornaments, I proudly display the hand made beaded wreaths. I make sure the prettiest one from the middle has a special spot on the tree. All the while, I remember with tears the little boy at the door who came proudly to my home selling his mother’s very special ornaments. This little family brought the true gift of love to my home.

Creative Ideas for Christmas Cards

History of Christmas Cards

Though wood engravers produced prints with religious themes in the European Middle Ages, the first commercial Christmas and New Year’s card was designed in London, England, in 1843. The picture on the front—a family with a small child drinking wine together—turned out to be controversial, but the idea stuck.

John Callcott Horsley (1817—1903), a British narrative painter and a Royal Academician, designed the first Christmas and New Year’s card at the suggestion and request of his friend Sir Henry Cole, who was the first director of the Victoria and Albert Museum. Horsley designed the first Christmas card in 1840, but it did not go on sale until 1843, when one thousand cards were offered for one shilling each. The Christmas
card became very popular, and other artists quickly followed Horsley’s concept.

Early English cards rarely showed winter or religious themes, favoring flowers, fairies, and other fanciful designs in honor of the approach of spring. Humorous and sentimental images of children and animals were popular, as well as increasingly elaborate shapes, decorations, and materials.

Louis Prang was the first printer to offer Christmas cards in America in 1875. The style and extravagance of the cards evolved throughout the twentieth century with changing printing techniques. Patriotic themes were popular during the world wars, and religious themes dominated starting with the 1950s.

The Christmas Card Today

Even though new technologies have caused a serious drop in the number of cards received by households, approximately 1.8 billion cards are sent annually.

Here are some ideas on to incorporate Christmas Cards into your family’s traditions:

The Christmas Letter

In recent years, some families have opted to include a Christmas letter updating friends on the events of the past year. You might choose one person or merge the contributions of all the family members. This is especially easy when done on the computer. Note: It’s best to produce a letter with genuine news—letters that sound like press releases touting family achievements can be tiresome.

The Christmas Photo Postcard

Christmas Idea: Some families have chosen to send a Christmas postcard containing a family photograph and printed greeting. This has become a very popular way of updating friends and family members who live far away with how the family is growing and maturing.


Christmas in January

You might want to consider sending your Christmas letter in January, a current trend. After the hustle and bustle of celebrating is over, there is much more time to thoughtfully create a mail-out of better quality and meaning. Also, there is more time for the recipient to read it at their leisure.

Christmas Card Tree

Create a Christmas card tree by using a hole-puncher to put a hole in the top left corner of the card through both front and back. Tie the card to the tree with a ribbon. You might also want to place a Christmas basket on the coffee table or kitchen counter in which to place cards as they arrive, giving family members a chance to look at them. Handmade, particularly beautiful, and sentimental Christmas cards can be easily maintained in an album with favorite cards from past years.


Excerpted from Everything Christmas by David Bordon and Thomas J. Winters. Copyright © 2010 by David Bordon and Thomas J. Winters. Excerpted by permission of WaterBrook Press, a division of Random House, Inc. All rights reserved. No part of this excerpt may be reproduced or reprinted without permission in writing from the publisher.

About the Authors
David Bordon and Tom Winters are partners in Bordon-Winters, LLC, a book concept and packaging company that produces successful books and gift products. Their previous titles include the 101 Things You Should Do series, especially the popular 101 Things You Should Do Before Going to Heaven.


Click here to purchase the book “Everything Christmas".

Who Makes a Family?

By LeAnn Rice

Between the loss of my husband, Ron, and living on the opposite coast from my parents and in-laws, holidays felt mighty lonely. Empty chairs around the table, fewer stockings hung, and wrapping presents alone made me keenly aware of the smallness of my family of two. But letting people in is not easy for me. Loss and betrayal have resulted in protective walls around my heart. Big ones. Walls to keep me from being hurt again.

For years, I was so afraid of letting anyone in that I found myself completely alone with my sweet little boy who didn’t understand why our home wasn’t filled with family on special occasions and why there were so many empty chairs at our dinner table. I knew I desired our home to be filled with people, laughter and memories, but how could I make that happen?

I didn’t know, but God did. Over the years, God put little cracks in my walls and brought a handful of treasured friends to fill the empty chairs around our table and the voids in our lives.

~ Friends who fill in the gaps when I am unable to pick Nick up from school.

~ Friends who include us in family celebrations.

~ Friends who take care of home repairs that are beyond my capabilities.

~ Friends who let me be “Aunt LeLe” to their children.

~ Friends who notice that Nick needs a positive male role model in his life and someone to hit a tennis ball with.

~ Friends who help with the yard work in our overgrown forest of weeds and leaves.

~ Friends who notice that I don’t always fit in, so they find ways to fit me into their lives.

~ Friends who continue to eat my kitchen experiments no matter how many times I set
off the smoke alarm.

I may not have the life I imagined or hoped for, but it is my life and I am grateful for the blessings of family and friends who love Nick and me and fill in some of the empty spaces in our hearts.

I have to be honest though…I miss the holidays I used to have. Yes, I feel loved when my new “family” gathers for a big Thanksgiving dinner or a Christmas celebration. But, they have families of their own: parents, siblings, or in-laws to visit on Christmas, so our celebration takes place on a different day. Christmas morning comes around and it is still just Nick and me sitting by the tree. Well… except for that spoiled rotten cat of ours.

If you find yourself in the same situation here are a few ideas that I hope will help get you through the holidays:

• Find a family or organization that needs something you can offer. It may be bringing ingredients for Thanksgiving dinner to a family that can’t afford a turkey and fixings. Maybe a family needs help purchasing and wrapping presents for their children who would otherwise have no gifts under their Christmas tree. Collect warm coats, blankets and socks for a homeless shelter. Help a shut-in write and send Christmas cards to friends and family. Simply find a need (and there is always a need) that you are gifted and have a heart for, and fill it.

• See if there are others who will be alone on a holiday and celebrate together. Prepare and serve a “family” meal or have everyone bring a dish to share. Maybe include a silly game to keep the mood lively.

• Volunteer to serve a holiday meal at a local soup kitchen.

I have found that doing for others makes me feel so much better. It takes the focus off of me, and I am blessed to be a blessing to someone else.

Maybe your situation is different. Maybe your home will be filled with family and friends this holiday season. Do you know someone who will be alone? Consider opening your home and heart to include them in your celebration. But please do not be offended if they say “no.” Sometimes it is actually harder to be a part of someone else’s celebration because it brings back memories of what you once had. But, even when I say “no,” it means so much to have been invited…to feel like I matter to someone.

Whether you are alone this holiday season, or you have a house brimming with family, I pray that God reveals Himself to you in a very real and tangible way. May He be all that you need. May He fill every empty space. May He draw you nearer to His heart.

Sweet Blessings,
LeAnn

LeAnn Rice is the Executive Director of Proverbs 31 Ministries. She lives with her 17-year-old son, Nick, and their ornery cat, Angel, in a small town just outside of Charlotte, NC. LeAnn shares hope and inspiration on her site www.AWidowsMight.org and recipes, grace, and southern hospitality on www.SheCooks.org.

Greater Love: An Easter Miracle on Main Street

By MaryBeth Seal


“Greater love has no one than this, than to lay down his life for his friends.” John 15:13


“Mary, can you help us move this weekend?” asked my friend Yola.
With some trepidation I replied, “Of course we can help you move.” Yola was my new friend from work.
I hesitated because it was going to be on Easter weekend and I had a lot of grocery shopping, baking, and meal preparation to do for my family. I was sure it would be a huge inconvenience. “Somehow I’ll manage to do it all,” I told myself. Doing it all myself was a lifelong trap, and I still fall into it more than I like to admit.
This particular holiday, I planned to make an atypical Easter dinner-not the traditional ham, potato salad, and yams we were used to. I discovered a recipe for a unique way to serve sliced ham and turkey, layered with Swiss cheese and spinach. These ingredients would then be baked in the middle of rolled pastry dough. These sliced pinwheels made for a great presentation on a decorative serving platter. I couldn’t wait to get in the kitchen and begin my food art work!
There was one traditional food that I was not going to forgo, and that was the lamb cake. My mother always made lamb cakes as I was growing up, and now I always make one for my own family. It is basically pound cake batter baked in a lamb form pan. After it’s cooled, it would be iced with vanilla frosting and finally smothered with snow white flaked coconut. I would use black jelly beans for the nose and eyes. Carefully placing a red ribbon around its neck, the lamb would be positioned on a bed of Easter grass and become the center piece for our table.
As a child, I thought lamb cakes were cute. As an adult, I understand that Jesus is the Lamb of God; that he was slain for the forgiveness of sin for all mankind, and for me personally. He was the incarnate sacrificial Passover Lamb. The beautiful lamb cake that would be our centerpiece would be broken, slashed and served after our meal.
Soon, the holiday weekend roared in and I charged out the door to go help my friends move. After all, we had the truck, and my husband and our teen son had the muscles. I did my share of carrying boxes down the flight of stairs to the truck and up three flights of stairs to their new apartment.
Later that afternoon upon returning home, my “charge” had expired. I felt like I was wearing a bell diver’s suit. I trudged into my kitchen to begin the preparation for my Easter dinner. My food art work was looking more like hard work. Before starting my list, I had to unload two bags of food that Yola had sent home with me from her place. They were going out of the country for a month, and didn’t want it to be wasted.
As I packed her things into my refrigerator, it was as though I was putting a puzzle together. Yola had no way of knowing of my dinner plans, so this dinner puzzle was quite surprising. I took out a package of sliced ham, then one of sliced turkey, and in the mix, a package of Swiss cheese! To my absolute astonishment, I pulled out a box of freezer pastry dough, just exactly what I needed to make the dinner from the magazine recipe.
Just then there was a knock on our door. My future daughter-in-law stood in the doorway holding a dish on which sat a beautiful lamb cake!
I knew God was blessing us for helping our friends that day. He laid down his life for his friends; and asks us to do the same for others. When we sat down to dinner on that extraordinary Easter Sunday, we enjoyed an amazing “grace,” the grace of a miracle. Our hearts were filled with gratitude.

MaryBeth Seal is a nurse and a She Speaks graduate. Speaking to women’s groups and Bible studies has been part of her ministry as well. “A Life to Overcome” is one her favorite presentations. MaryBeth recently had her first book published “Valley Girl….the Valley of Trouble Leads to a Door of Hope,” and it is available at Amazon.com. MaryBeth can be contacted at mbseal2000@yahoo.com.

Recipes for your Christmas Tea

Provided by Lisa Boalt Richardson

Basic Sweet Scones

2 cups all-purpose flour
1 tablespoon baking powder
½ teaspoon salt
¼ cup sugar
½ teaspoon vanilla
6 tablespoons very cold butter, cut into small pieces
¾ cup heavy whipping cream
Preheat oven to 400 degrees. Place flour, baking powder, salt, and sugar in a large bowl. Cut butter into flour mixture with a pastry cutter or mixer until it looks crumbly. Add vanilla to cream and then pour into flour mixture and mix with hands until it forms a ball. Remove dough from bowl, place on a lightly floured surface, and roll out to about ½-inch thickness. Be careful not to overwork the dough or the scones will become tough. Cut with a 2-inch round cookie cutter. Place on an ungreased cookie sheet and bake for 13 to 15 minutes. Makes approximately 12. (You may use different size cutters but be sure to adjust you cooking time if you do. The larger the size, the longer it needs to cook and vice versa. Serve with jam or lemon curd.


Easy Microwave Chocolate Truffles

A easy way to impress your guests and you palate. You may want to make more and give away as gifts!

½ cup heavy cream
3 T butter cut into chunks
2 T sugar
1 T vanilla
10 oz. good quality bittersweet chocolate (60%) I like Ghirardelli bittersweet chocolate chips. (If not using chips, break up chocolate into small pieces)
½ t salt

Cocoa Mixture
Mix 1/3 cup unsweetened cocoa and 1/3 cup powder sugar together. For a saltier taste add 1/8 t salt.

Microwave cream, butter and sugar in 2 quart microwavable glass bowl on high for 1 ½ minutes. Stir well; heat an additional 1 minute longer or until mixture comes to full boil. Stir in vanilla and chocolate into cream mixture until chocolate is completely melted. Add salt and blend. Chill until firm enough to shape into balls about 3 hours. Shape into 1-inch balls. If desired roll truffles in Cocoa Mixture. Store covered in refrigerator. Makes about 2 dozen.


Lisa Boalt Richardson author of Tea with a Twist is one of the first 15 in the world to graduate from the Specialty Tea Institute with a "Certified Tea Specialist" title. She travels the country speaking at conferences and special events focusing on her culinary arts and specialty tea expertise. She resides in Atlanta with her husband and two children. For more information go to www.lisaknowstea.com.

Recipes used by permission and are a copyrighted by Lisa Boalt Richardson from “Tea with a Twist". Proverbs 31 Ministries is pleased to offer Lisa’s book “Tea with a Twist” for sale. All proceeds benefit the ministry. Click here to order.

Putting Things in Order Before the Holidays

By Glynnis Whitwer

Organizing experts say five minutes of planning can save 30 minutes of doing. I think that’s a pretty good trade off. Unfortunately, I tend to forget that truth and plow ahead with the doing. Inevitably, I end up duplicating efforts, retracing my steps and coming home from the store with nothing for dinner. Yet as we approach the end-of-the-year holidays, I don’t have time for being unorganized.

I want this time of the year to be special for my family and friends. I want to celebrate the birth of Christ in a variety of ways. I want to create margin in my schedule to allow for the unexpected opportunities. I don’t want the demands of everyday to overshadow the call of the divine.

For me, the only way for those goals to be achieved is for me to plan. Planning helps me take care of the extra requirements of the season, so I look upon them with joy instead of resentment.

The best place for me to start is with my home. If I can get my house in order, my time and energy can be freed up to focus on God’s best. I want to focus on things that bring joy, awe, inspiration, fellowship, and blessings to those I love … and myself.

To get organized, I identify my priorities, then plan to address those. Here are some areas of my “home” I’m working on.

Home
· Clear the refrigerator, freezer and cupboards. I like to finish off any leftovers, food items that have been frozen for awhile, and partially full containers, to make room for all the holiday specialties. That means I’ll be intentional in my menu planning.
· Steam clean carpets.
· Washing windows.
· Touch up the front entrance. This will include painting the dinged spots, replacing flowering pots, hanging a new flag, and putting up a holiday wreath.

Decorating
· Schedule a day to decorate the house and the tree with the family. Make it a party with hors d’oeuvres and music!

Cooking
· Plan menus now for special meals.
· Then, watch for sales, using coupons to save money.
· Bake some items and freeze (breads, soups, casseroles)

Clothing
· Review winter clothing supplies. Check and make sure everyone has a winter jackets, gloves, etc. I also check to make sure my children have the required outfits for school band and choir performances. Funny how they outgrow black shoes each year.

Spiritual Needs
· Purchase Advent calendar.
· Purchase or borrow a Christmas devotional to read with family.


Hospitality Needs
· Plan homemade gifts for neighbors/teachers/friends.
· Schedule two or three nights to invite friends over who don’t have family in town.
· Plan a cookie exchange party with girlfriends.
· Schedule a Progressive Dinner with small group.
· Plan a cookie decorating party for children in family and neighborhood. Share the Christmas story through cookies.

I think that’s a good start. But I’ll probably add to that list. Too often I regret what I forget. Hopefully, with some planning, I’ll create more opportunities to experience the presence of Jesus during His birthday season.

Glynnis Whitwer is on staff with Proverbs 31 Ministries, and the editor of the P31 Woman Magazine. She’s also the author of two books, and co-author of four Bible studies. You can review Glynnis’ books here. Glynnis and her husband Tod run two businesses from home, and are the proud parents of five children. To read more about Glynnis, visit her blog at www.GlynnisWhitwer.com.

The Joy of Music in the Holiday Season

by Rebekah Howell

As the temperature drops and the days shorten, many dread the coming winter. In our household this change in the seasons was not accompanied by distress of being cooped up in the house, but anticipation of the coming holiday season. Waking up to a white blanket of snow glistening in the sun filled me with life and energy for the celebration of the coming of our Lord and Savior. One of the most precious ways my family celebrates the birth of our Lord is through the gift of music.
Many people have forgotten the joy of music during the holiday season. As long as I can remember, music has played a significant role in my family’s celebration of Christmas. Every year, we gather together with all of our relatives for the “Ahlquist Family Christmas Sing.” Of course we would share a Swedish dinner together and then gather around the piano where Grandpa would play. My brother and I eagerly watched as his fingers smoothly glided over the keys, not a piece of music in sight. I was sure he had the whole hymn book memorized! The room was filled with joyful varieties of Christmas tunes including old Swedish hymns, the well-known children’s songs, and the dearly loved Christmas carols. As the family has grown over the years, we have not given up on this tradition. In fact, we now have the youngest children dress up and act out the nativity with Christmas carols interspersed among the story. It is one of my most cherished traditions!
Another musical highlight of the Christmas season for my family was Christmas caroling. Because my father was a doctor, he enjoyed taking us down to the nursing home and the hospital. Usually on Christmas Eve or Christmas Day, we would get all bundled up and head over to visit his patients. Whether playing our instruments or simply walking through the halls singing as we went, it was such a delight to share the joy of music with those who had to spend Christmas away from home!
During our first year of marriage, I was excited about developing our own musical Christmas traditions. We lived in a large apartment building in downtown Chicago, so my husband and I decided to host a caroling party. I realized that we hardly knew any of the people that lived in the apartment building, and I wanted a way to share the love of Christ with them. We sent out homemade invitations inviting all of our friends to join us in this musical ministry. I also made fudge and wrapped it up into little gifts for all those we visited. On the night of the party when our guests arrived, we walked from floor to floor Christmas caroling to all who were home. Everyone loved it! Even the night guard was delighted to be serenaded by a group of college students as he sat behind the desk.
No matter where you live, Christmas caroling is a great way to get people together and meet those in your neighborhood that you never seem to cross paths with. Why not invite those you visit to join the group as you go from house to house? And make sure to end the night around a blazing fireplace or with a mug of hot cocoa back at your house! Whether you venture out into the crisp cool night to carol around town or you simply bring the whole family together for a night of singing, it will be a precious treasure in the memories of all who participate!

The Blessing of Christmas

By Julia Howell

Early in the holiday season, right around Thanksgiving time, I always feel a stirring of excitement in my heart. It reminds me of the unbridled joy I felt as a child anticipating the “most wonderful time of the year.” With visions from Southern Living dancing in my head, the decorations come down out of the attic and I begin to plan for our best Christmas ever. Inevitably, however, the Grinch comes along, and before I know it I have lost all sense of the true reason for the season. I find myself lost in a flurry of shopping, Christmas programs, and parties. By the time the last note is sang in the choir program, the last present is wrapped (for which I paid way too much), and the last dish is baked, I cannot help but feel disappointed at the emptiness in my soul.
This year, though, an unexpected phone call and an invitation from the associate pastor at our church became the catalyst of change: “We are in need of another woman to serve as a counselor during the Lighthouse Foundation’s toy store give-away. Are you interested?”
I was already a bit familiar with the work of the Lighthouse Foundation, a local Christian effort that reaches out to the less fortunate children and youth of our community. At Christmas, they arrange for parents who have no means of providing toys for their children to visit a “toy store” and choose gifts. Through an application process, those selected are scheduled a time, prioritized by need, to visit the store. The parents (usually single moms) are taken to a room when they arrive and presented the gospel message. Those who desire more information are separated out of the group and sent to see an invitation counselor—which is where I would serve.
“I’d be glad to!” I heard the words come out of my mouth before I felt the nudge of fear in my heart and my head remembered I would have to take a leave day from work. “But,” I added, “Let me pray about it.” It didn’t take much prayer for me to become convinced this opportunity was God inspired and I agreed to do it—even though my comfort zone was severely threatened.
The morning of the giveaway arrived and we were blessed with unusual spring-like December weather. About eight of us gathered at our church for a van ride to the mission. In a few short minutes, we had left the more opulent area of our town and arrived at a small non-descript metal building in the midst of small non-descript rental housing. No fancy holly wreaths or lavish decorations here. In their place, steel bars secured many of the neighborhood windows. I could not help but marvel at how two vastly different cultures could co-exist only a few miles apart.
We were met at the door by event organizers, briefed, and ushered into a room to begin. Without separate counseling rooms available, each counselor would need to separate themselves from the group and find a place in the room to talk quietly with those sent to us.
In less than five minutes, the first group entered. I noticed Michelle from across the room—a young, blond girl with tearful eyes and stooped shoulders. Even before she was introduced to me, I knew she was the one out of the group God had chosen for me to counsel. We found our “spot” and I tried to place her at ease.
“I have a daughter about your age. May I ask how old you are?” I smiled and gave her a hug, because she looked like she needed someone to show her love. With her hair in a ponytail, she appeared so youthful it was difficult to imagine she was here to get toys for a child of her own.
As we talked, some of her barriers melted away and a flood of pent up sorrow poured forth. I discovered she was indeed my daughter’s age- all of 19-years-old. She shared through sobs that she already had two children under the age of three, and her live-in boyfriend had recently skipped out of town. She had moved in with her single mother who was trying to support them on next to nothing. “I really do want to change,” she assured me, “But I don’t know how. I’ve made such a mess of my life that it seems hopeless.”
By the time we finished our talk Michelle had prayed to surrender her life to Jesus Christ, and she promised to find a church to attend. I smiled as I watched her walk away. No longer stooped, she stood tall and had a new bounce in her step. My own heart soared to new heights. Before the day ended, the Lord allowed me to share Him with four more women who accepted Him as Savior.
Our group sat in contemplative silence as we returned to the church. Funny that I didn’t notice the housing on the way back—my mind was on a baby born in a stable in a “non-descript” section of Bethlehem. The true Blessing of Christmas had come into this world without fanfare or wealth to become our Savior. Each of our group had experienced a blessing today, but the blessing had not been in the giving of ourselves, our time, or anything we had done. The giving of the blessing was all God’s doing; we who had desired to bless others had become the blessed.
Christmas morning arrived and my family gathered around our tree to open gifts. In the midst of all the ohs and ahs as we examined our presents, my thoughts traveled back to Michelle. I wondered how her Christmas morning was going and if her children were excited with their toys. And I wondered if she was rejoicing that her once empty soul was now full of hope, even as I marveled at the joy that filled my own.

Holiday Make-Over Ideas

Reduce post-holiday remorse with these simple substitutions that make traditional holiday dishes more healthful.

Turkey
Choose skinless white meat to lower fat and cholesterol. Opt for a plain bird over a self-basting one.

Turkey Gravy
Skim fat from juices before thickening. Hold the salt, and flavor with herbs.

Stuffing
Replace 1/3 of bread with cut-up vegetables. Reduce amount of butter or margarine used.

Candied Yams
Combine crushed pineapple and yam slices with apple juice; omit margarine, and add a sprinkle of cinnamon.

Fruit Salad
Serve fresh fruit splashed with champagne, or vanilla yogurt in place of high fat fruit gelatin with cream cheese and sour cream.

Cranberry Sauce
Grind fresh cranberries with oranges and apples. Sprinkle with just enough sugar to reduce tartness.

Dinner Rolls
Instead of white bread rolls, serve whole-grain rolls with fruit preserves instead of butter.

Pumpkin Pie
Make pumpkin pie filling with evaporated skim milk and 1/3 less sugar. Substitute baked meringue for crust.




Looking for a homemade gift idea that’s sure to please? Try this great recipe from the book “Homespun Gifts from the Heart.”

Candy Cane Cappuccino

1 cup powdered non-dairy creamer
1 1/3 cups sugar
1 cup instant coffee
1 cup hot cocoa mix
8 regular size candy canes

Blend all ingredients in a blender or food processor until a smooth powder results. Place the mix in a container or bag decorated with a red bow and a small candy cane.

Don’t forget to include a tag with the following information:

Candy Cane Cappuccino

Stir 1 tablespoon of this mix into 1 cup boiling water and enjoy.


Editor’s note: I made this mix last year for Christmas gifts and it was a huge hit! I substituted powdered milk for the non-dairy creamer. The mix went into a Ziploc bag, which was slipped inside of a festive cloth bag. I printed out direction tags and tied them onto the bag with a ribbon. Delicious, easy and fun! This book contains tons of great ideas and tags that you can photocopy. I highly recommend it!

This recipe is an excerpt from the book Homespun Gifts from the Heart, Copyright 2003, Revell Books. Used by permission.


Purchase Homespun Gifts from the Heart from Proverbs 31 Ministries http://shopp31.com/homespunmemoriesfortheheart.aspx

Valentine’s Day Simplified

Venture into any store and you’ll see evidence of another commercialized holiday gone wild! As soon as the Christmas displays are cleaned up, out come the fancy chocolates, flowers, stuffed animals, cards (with or without music of course) and the “can’t live without ‘em” boxer shorts with little hearts.

Is this really what you need to show someone you love them? Of course not! With a little creativity you can make Valentine’s Day special without blowing your budget.

For your husband, or anyone else you would like to feel special this Valentine’s Day, here are some ideas to get you started:
● Frame a special photo

● Make a homemade heart-shaped cake with a special message

● Write a poem, song or a list of “What I Love About You”

● Assemble a small and simple scrap book or photo album

● For your husband, prepare his favorite meal at home complete with candlelight and tablecloth, and arrange for a babysitter if necessary

● Write an “I Love You” message on their car window or leave a note in their vehicle

● Send a special text message or email to the recipient at work

● If you have children, have them create homemade cards for family members

Since Valentine’s Day is all about love, what a great time to share the love of Christ with family, friends and neighbors. This particular holiday can leave people feeling lonely and left out, so take this opportunity to put a smile on their face with homemade cookies or a simple hand-made valentine card.

You're Invited to a Celebration-Don't Miss It!

By Van Walton

Did you know that long before the foundations of the earth were laid, God wrote an invitation, one He personally sent to you and me thousands of years ago? Sounds incredible doesn’t it, but our God who sees a day as a thousand years and a thousand years as a day (2 Peter 3:8) made preparations for a series of celebrations and then invited all who would come.

Passover

God’s Invitation: (Exodus 12:1-13)” The LORD said to Moses and Aaron in Egypt, ‘This month is to be for you the first month, the first month of your year. Tell the whole community of Israel that on the tenth day of this month each man is to take a lamb…’ ” (NIV)

The Event: Passover celebrates escape from slavery in Egypt, marking the point in history when the displaced Jewish nation would begin its return to the Promised Land. God provided an escape for the Hebrew slaves. He said, “I will pass over you. No destructive plague will touch you when I strike Egypt.” (Exodus 12:13b) NIV

Its Significance: Passover commemorates our own liberation. God sent His perfect Lamb who shed His blood on the cross that we would be saved from evil wrongdoing. Once a believer in Christ accepts His offer of salvation, the journey toward heaven begins. Today we walk, like the Hebrews did, in a wilderness. One day, like the Children of Israel, every follower of Christ will step “across the river” and enter into paradise, a perfect promised land.

Jesus is our Passover Lamb. He is The Way to freedom and eternal life!

Feast of Weeks or Pentecost

God’s Invitation: 'From the day after the Sabbath, the day you brought the sheaf of the wave offering, count off seven full weeks. Count off fifty days up to the day after the seventh Sabbath, and then present an offering of new grain to the LORD. (Leviticus 23:15-16) NIV

The Event: In the middle of the summer as harvesting begins God’s children pause to thank Him for the gifts of provision, creation, and the law given on Mt. Sinai.

Its Significance: Jesus taught his disciples that He offers new life by fulfilling the law, not changing it. He spoke of the impossibility of keeping all the commandments and explained that a person who put their faith in Him and His shed blood for the forgiveness of sins would not be bound by the law.

Jesus fills the lives of believers with His Holy Spirit giving us direct access to the Father. “I am going to send you what my Father has promised; but stay in the city until you have been clothed with power from on high." (Luke 24:49) NIV

Feast of Trumpets

God’s Invitation: “On the first day of the seventh month you are to have a day of rest, a sacred assembly commemorated with trumpet blasts.” (Leviticus 16:24) NIV

The Event: Trumpets sound announcing the fall harvest, inviting everyone to the temple.

Its Significance: Jesus will announce His return to earth with the trumpet sound. (1 Thessalonians 4:16) All those who believe in Him are invited to join Him in heaven.

Jesus personally invites us to live with him in heaven.

The Day of Atonement

God’s Invitation: “This is to be a lasting ordinance for you: On the tenth day of the seventh month you must deny yourselves and not do any work—whether native-born or an alien living among you- because on this day atonement will be made for you, to cleanse you. Then, before the LORD, you will be clean from all your sins.” (Leviticus 16: 29-30) NIV

The Event: The day following the Feast of Trumpets is the most solemn day of the year for the Hebrew nation. This is a Holy Day set aside for repentance and forgiveness of sins. During this day the High Priest enters the Holy of Holies within the temple and intercedes for the sins committed during the past year. Because God could not be approached directly, the high priest would make atonement for himself and the repentant people of the nation. (Leviticus l6).

Its Significance: When Jesus died, the veil separating the Holy of Holies from the rest of the temple ripped. This significant event opened the way for personal communion with God, the Father. Today anyone who seeks God will find Him through Jesus who constantly intercedes for our sins.

Jesus is the "new and living way." (Hebrews 7-10) He is our high priest. (Hebrews 7-10)

Feast of Tabernacles

God’s Invitation: “For seven days you must celebrate this festival to honor the Lord your God… This festival will be a time of great joy for all. This festival will be a time of great joy for all!” (Deuteronomy 16:15) NLT

The Event: While the escaped Hebrew slaves wandered in the wilderness, they lived in tents that they took down every time they moved and set up when it came time to camp. In the midst of their camps the priests set up a large tent – the tabernacle. The tabernacle traveled with the pilgrims. It was their place of worship, the place where God resided and could be approached by the priests who interceded for the sins of the people. Tabernacle means to live among. So one could say, “He tabernacled with us. He lived with us.”

Its Significance: The final series of Holy Days included a time when the entire nation would set up booths, tents or huts. For a week entire families camped out in temporary structures as a reminder that God provided for them when they wandered in the wilderness and He lived with them in the tabernacle they carried through the desert. Can you imagine the fun – the giant street party that took place and continues to happen today – when families move outside to celebrate the harvest and thank God for His provisions during the past year!

Jesus is our shelter. He is our refuge. Before He left His disciples, he promised to prepare a permanent dwelling place for His followers so we could live in eternity with the Father. (John 14:2-3)

Purim

One of the happiest days on the Hebrew calendar is the feast of Purim. Honoring victory over the Persians, Purim is observed some time during the month of March.
The heroine of the story is Esther, a beautiful Jewish commoner turned queen. During the time that she lived in the king’s harem, a hateful advisor to the king, plotted to annihilate the Jewish nation that resided in Persia. Mordecai, Esther’s cousin, got wind of the horrendous plan and designed a way to save his fellow countryman. His scheme would not have succeeded without Esther because she had direct access to the king. The story, contained in the book of Esther in the Bible, is full of intrigue and drama culminating in victory for the foreigners.

Hanukah: Festival of Lights

This Jewish Holy Day, Hanukah, which means dedication and is associated with the rededication of the Holy Temple, is celebrated in remembrance of a miracle that took place during a very dark time in Hebrew history. During their occupation the Syrians entered the Holy Temple where the Jews worshiped, defiling the furnishings and contaminating the oil used for special rituals. All but one vial of oil had been made impure. How could they keep the eternal lamp burning without oil? A miracle occurred! The lamp burned for eight days on that one vial of oil. To show their gratitude to God, Hebrew families began a tradition in their homes of lighting small menorahs. Today Hanukah continues to be celebrated during the shortest and darkest of days, commemorating the miracle that kept the lamp in the temple glowing during a historical time of political and spiritual oppression.

Christmas

Christmas is also celebrated during the darkest of seasons. We are reminded that Jesus is the light of the world. His light never burns out. He is The Way, The Truth and The Light.

Christmas, like Purim and Hanukah, is a holiday designed by mankind. No instructions in scripture give directions as to how Jesus’ birthday should be celebrated. Jesus does, however, instruct us to follow Him in a way that our lives would glorify God. So, as you celebrate Christmas, let each day be a Holy Day. May your life magnify God in the highest and bring peace on earth, good will to all. Why not take this moment to rededicate your life to God? Your body becomes His temple when you invite His Holy Spirit to live in your heart.

Van is the Director of Hispanic Ministries and a member of the P31 Speaker Team. She lives in Charlotte and spends part of each year in Missouri. She and her husband celebrate 36 years of marriage, rejoicing in the shared adventure of parenting their two grown sons, and anticipating their journey into the future. Van is the author of a children’s book “From the Pound to the Palace.” In her spare time, she writes and travels.

Blogspot: vanwalton.blogspot.com

Top Ten Ways to Have a Stress-Free Christmas

By Marybeth Whalen

Marybeth is the author of a fantastic e-book entitled “A Recipe For Christmas Joy” ($9.95). This handy resource contains recipes, ideas, encouragement and thoughts on keeping Jesus at the center of your Christmas celebration. This book was designed to help you find that Christmas JOY your heart is longing for. Go to Marybeth’s website to purchase the e-book: www.marybethwhalen.com.


10. Find a Christmas cd that ministers to your soul and play it in your home. I especially like to do this towards the end of the day when I am making dinner! The soothing sounds and Christ-centered lyrics go a long way towards renewing my perspective.

9. Make memories by baking, crafting or engaging in other creative pursuits with your family. Carve out white space to make those memories happen. Remember that if you put just as much effort into the preparations and fun leading up to the day, it takes the stress off the day itself.

8. Prepare and stick to a budget ahead of time. Discuss purchases with your husband and have a team mentality in approaching Christmas. This isn’t a time for fudging on purchases or sneaking and using the credit card. If you don’t have the money to spend, then be honest with people—including your children. Pray that God would provide you economical ways to bless those you love and that He would supernaturally stretch your buying power this year.

7. Celebrate advent in some way. Go to www.advent4evangelicals.blogspot.com for many ideas, or check out the many books of ideas that are out there. This helps everyone in the family to spiritually prepare for Christmas.

6. Be intentional about preparing ahead of time whenever possible. By being intentional about your Christmas and thinking things through, you can accomplish more with less stress. Sit down with your list before you run errands and map out a route to make your time more productive. Double recipes when you cook and use the extras as gifts. Maximize your time whenever possible.

5. Let go of control and embrace whatever the season brings. This Christmas isn’t going to be perfect. Illness, bad attitudes, and disappointment will creep in. Decide now how you are going to handle those things when they happen and allow yourself (and your Christmas) to fall short of your expectations.

4. Say no when you need to. Saying no may be just what your family needs—yet too often we say yes out of guilt. Decide with your family how much is too much and ask them to hold you accountable. Then banish the guilt with the knowledge that your priorities are in order!

3. Enlist your family’s support—especially in the areas that are not your strengths! Delegation is key. I have had my daughter address my Christmas cards for years. She enjoys doing it and I feel liberated!


2. Pray without ceasing. Keep up a running dialogue with your Heavenly Father all through the season. Bookend your day with prayer. Ask Him for whatever you need as the needs arise. Maybe it is an extra measure of forgiveness for that family member you have to see. Maybe it is more patience with your excited, hyper children. Maybe it is the time and energy to accomplish what is on your to-do list. Whatever it is, don’t forget to take it to Him.

1. Put the focus on Christ, not gifts. Make Jesus the center of your celebration, not an after thought. Begin with Him, then plan everything around Him. When you do this, it becomes easier to let go of the stress and “extras” and simply celebrate the gift of Him.


Marybeth Whalen has been married to Curt for 16 years. They are the parents of six children, ranging in age from toddler to teen. Marybeth is a speaker for Proverbs 31 Ministries and writes in her “spare” time. To learn more about Marybeth, go to www.marybethwhalen.com.

CANDY CANE CRUSADERS FOR CHRIST

Looking for a way to reach out to your community during the Christmas season? Here’s a great idea from Renee Myers:

By Renee Myers

A few years ago I became irritated with all the people trying to take Christ out of Christmas. That’s when I became a self-proclaimed Candy Cane Crusader for Christ.

Armed with a purse full of candy canes often tagged with a poem about the candy cane and how it relates to Jesus Christ, I set out each day during December to distribute my goodies to as many people as I can. I give them to the people at registers and drive-up windows, people standing in lines, cranky children, and even to cranky adults. Every time I do I say a cheery, “Merry Christmas!” It’s always fun to see their faces soften into smiles. Children of all ages cheer up when receiving the unexpected treat. Teens seem to get the most excited.

My inspiration to do this began a few years ago when our pastor was appalled to learn that his daughter had been instructed not to say, “Merry Christmas” to customers at the department store where she worked. She was told it might offend some people. Then I started realizing that stores were selling holiday trees not Christmas trees, and the same was true for Christmas lights. Reports started circulating of more businesses instructing employees not to say, “Merry Christmas”. I found myself saddened by these changes and angered by the attempts of society to take Christ out of Christmas.

The very merchants who were enticing us to do our Christmas shopping by spending our Christmas money in their fine establishments were the same merchants trying to denounce the very reason for the season! I decided that something had to be done to keep Christ at the center of our annual celebration of Christmas, and that’s when I became a Candy Cane Crusader for Christ. Employees might not be able to say, “Merry Christmas” to me, but I can say it to them!

In addition to casting out candy canes to those I encounter, I also keep a stash of candy canes tagged with the candy cane poem in our newspaper box, too. Neighbors and those driving by to see our home’s Christmas lights are invited to take the candy canes when they come by. This helps each of us remember that all the lights, decorations, gift-giving and celebrations are in honor of the birth of our precious Lord and Savior, Jesus Christ.

Please join me in becoming a Candy Cane Crusader for Christ, too! All you have to do is prepare candy canes by tagging them with the poem about the candy cane. You can involve children by asking them to help with the tags. Pray over them before you go out each day, asking the Lord to bless those who will receive the candy canes. Then distribute them to as many people as you can throughout the month of December. As you do, be sure to say, “Merry Christmas!”

I order pre-printed tags with this poem from a popular greeting card supplier. You can also make your own tags with the following poem:

The Candy Cane

It’s just a little Christmas treat, but also did you know?
It represents our Savior born so long ago.
The shape is like a “J” to symbolize His name.
The white is for His life, holy without blame.
The stripe of red is for His blood so pure and freely given,
That we might spend eternity with our Lord in heaven!

Renee Myers is a wife, mother of two boys, She Speaks! Graduate, leader of Disciple Bible study, and is active in church women’s groups. You can read more of her work at www.rmyers.wordpress.com.


Other Christmas Outreach Ideas

If you have the gift of hospitality, or would like to cultivate that gift, consider hosting a get-together at your home.

-Christmas cookie baking party- have guests bring recipes and ingredients for their favorite cookies.

-Movie Night- Invite friends over to watch “The Nativity Story.”

-Gift Wrap Gathering- Have fun wrapping gifts together with friends and neighbors.

During this busy season, there are many people in our community who may feel forgotten. Consider reaching out to them with Christ’s love.

-Thank the people that work on the holidays in your community by bringing plates of food to your local fire station, police station or hospital.

-Bring flowers or small gifts to a nursing home in your area and/or sing Christmas carols for residents.

Harvest Blessings

By: Denise Locker

Have you ever wondered how Thanksgiving became a holiday in America? Brush up on history and discover what the Bible says about having a thankful heart.

“Whereas it is the duty of all nations to acknowledge the providence of Almighty God, to obey His will, to be grateful for His benefits, and humbly implore His protection and favor – and Whereas both Houses of Congress have by their joint committee requested me to recommend to the people of the United States a day of public thanksgiving and prayer, to be observed by acknowledging with grateful hearts the many signal favors of Almighty God . . . .”

President George Washington issued this presidential proclamation in 1789 for the purpose of acknowledging thanks to God. I’m very grateful that President Washington set aside a special day to incorporate the giving of thanks into our national mindset and heritage.

The Apostle Paul speaks about thanks-giving as a privilege and an obligation for believers in Colossians 3:12-17: "Therefore, as the elect of God, holy and beloved, put on tender mercies, kindness, humility, meekness, longsuffering; bearing with one another, and forgiving one another, if anyone has a complaint against another; even as Christ forgave you, so you also must do. But above all these things put on love, which is the bond of perfection. And let the peace of God rule in your hearts, to which also you were called in one body; and be thankful. Let the word of Christ dwell in you richly in all wisdom, teaching and admonishing one another in psalms and hymns and spiritual songs, singing with grace in your hearts to the Lord. And whatever you do in word or deed, do all in the name of the Lord Jesus, giving thanks to God the Father through Him."

The idea of being thankful or giving thanks, as expressed here, is to keep on being and becoming thankful as a continuous process of obligation and privilege. Eugene Peterson translates this verse in The Message like this:

Let every detail in your lives – words, actions, whatever – be done in the name of
the Master, Jesus, thanking God the Father every step of the way.

I like the way this same principle is articulated so clearly and plainly in 1 Thessalonians 5:16-18. The author has also added one additional word regarding giving thanks.

Rejoice always; pray without ceasing; in everything give thanks; for this is
God’s will for you in Christ Jesus. (New American Standard Bible.)

In everything give thanks. Now that phrase puts a whole new spin on things! It seems easy to give thanks when you’re enjoying a house full of family, friends, football, and food on Thanksgiving Day. But Paul is telling us to give thanks in everything. That’s a tall order, and “everything” includes a lot of stuff. If I were to be totally honest, there’s a whole lot of stuff I don’t feel thankful for at all! I’m sure you could come up with your own list called, “Stuff I Wouldn’t be Thankful For, Lord.” But in God’s plan for each of us, there is a purpose for everything, the good as well as the not-so-good. Yes, it’s easy to be thankful for every joy and blessing. And yet the Bible tells us that every trial and difficulty, every disappointment and failure, is part of His plan for our life. The difference is that with Him there can be a silver lining for every cloud.

Paul, no stranger to trials himself, tells us that through our purposeful acts of prayer, rejoicing, and giving thanks, especially in difficult or trying times, our very attitudes will be transformed.
Simply by taking this action! Nobody claims it’s easy, but God promises to be with us, no matter what takes place in our lives. It is God’s will that we find joy (that we rejoice always) in thankful prayer in Christ Jesus, in every circumstance of our lives. Out of these difficult situations, we will begin to see God more clearly and be blessed by His abiding peace in our hearts. In the process, we will bless others, finding ways to show kindness and love to one another. No, it’s not easy to give thanks in every circumstance or time of testing. But obedience is not an option when it comes to our life in Christ.

Thou that has given so much to me,
Give one thing more – a grateful heart;
Not thankful when it pleases me,
As if Thy blessings had spare days;
But such a heart, whose pulse may be Thy praise.
~ George Herbert

There is something refreshing and wonderful about being around a person who understands the concept of being grateful. They walk through life differently. The atmosphere around them is energizing. Henry Ward Beecher said, “The unthankful heart . . . discovers no mercies; but let the thankful heart sweep through the day and, as the magnet finds the iron, so it will find, in every hour, some heavenly blessings!”