Tag Archives: holiday

Gifts Money Cannot Buy

 

 

“And now abide faith, hope, love, these three; but the greatest of these is love.” I Corinthians 13:13 NKJV

As I sit down to pen this article, our town is brimming with people. The Christmas parade has come and gone. Little ones are wired with their tummies and pockets filled with sugary treats. Eager shoppers rush to find perfect gifts for family and friends.

For forty-two years, Russell and I either exchanged gifts or planned a special outing for our anniversary or Christmas. Other times, he brought me gifts when he thought about it (not necessarily for a holiday or anniversary). Often he gave flowers, carefully choosing the container.

Of more value to me than the flowers, were the little cards. The words clearly came from his heart. He seemed to know when I was feeling old or inadequate and had the right words to encourage me. They were his words in his writing; priceless!

If you steal my purse, take all the money (both dollars!), just please leave this card. Seriously, it is one of my most treasured gifts and cannot be replaced. Money can’t buy the tenderness in the words my sweet husband penned in 2016. Eight years later, his final “I love you” was as meaningful as his first.

As you continue your holiday shopping, are you giving the best gifts? Your time? Your attention? Your prayers? Could you take time to write a simple love note to include with your gift? Perhaps you can join me in resolving this year to pen a tiny note to each of our loved ones every month or so.

We are reminded in this season that the Greatest Gift, while free to us, cost God His only Son. Jesus freely gave His life so that we could have forgiveness of sin and be with Him in Heaven. If you have not received this free gift or have someone you are praying for, jot me a note. Eternity is at stake.

May Jesus be more real to you this Christmas than He has ever been.

Love, hugs, and prayers.

Susie

 

Healthy Snack Options for the Holidays

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Healthy Snack Options for the Holidays‘Tis the season for holiday treats. Caring for family and others can get complicated as you work to provide healthy alternatives when the focus seems to be on elaborate, calorie-laden foods.

Here are some ideas for trimming calories and sugar while still providing ready-to-eat snacks. With careful shopping and a little planning ahead, you can be the caregiver in the know!

1. If your situation calls for the familiar fudge and cookie scene, consider the size of servings. Make your fudge thinner and cut smaller cubes. Making other candies and cookies, do the same. This really will make a huge difference for those who just grab a cookie or two as they pass the dish!
2. Consider pop corn as an alternative. Use air-popped corn and drizzle with almond bark while still hot. You can add sliced almonds, crushed peppermint pieces, or chopped dried fruit pieces for variety. Experiment with herbs or cheeses like Parmesan sprinkled on warm popcorn.
3. Keep veggies handy in the refrigerator. Celery sticks with cream cheese or peanut butter make a great snack. Use a low calorie dip or yogurt for your carrot sticks, broccoli, and cauliflower.
4. Don’t forget to use dairy products. Cheese cubes or cheese sticks are a good snack providing calcium and protein. Boiled eggs are another good item to have on hand as a quick snack without adding unwanted calories.
5. Chips are a popular snack but can provide too much sodium and fats. Look for some fabulous newer products such as humus chips (try them before you snub your nose!) or reduced sodium varieties. Note: reduced fat products often have increased sodium so read the labels before buying. Consider fresh salsa as a nutritious dip.

Here are a couple of bonus tips I have found most helpful for our family. First, use foods that take longer to eat; such as an orange that has to be peeled first or nuts that have to be cracked.
The second tip goes with number one above: smaller servings. Think smaller servings in all your snacks like individual pudding or fruit cups or mini tarts with fruit.
Another simple way to cut calories is to use almond bark and add toasted almonds or sunflower seeds and chopped dried fruit. Spread thin and break into small pieces when cool. Soothes the sweet tooth with fewer calories with the addition of nutritious fruit and nuts.

Have a great holiday as you care for others; let me hear your ideas.

Hugs,

Sharing a Blessing and Encouragement for the Season

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Sunbeams bounce off crystal dogwood trees in my front yard as I sit inside by the warm, glowing fireplace. All the colors of the rainbow are captured in bright sparkles on ice-covered branches. A bright red cardinals looks like an ornaments as he lights on icy limbs seeking food. It’s warm and safe inside and I am blessed.

It is not so in every home my letter goes into; and I know that full well. You may realize Christmas has come and you have not had time or energy to accomplish what you wanted for yourself or your loved ones. Some of you are caring for someone who may be difficult at times; or someone failing daily although you do all in your power to help them. Maybe a parent no longer recognizes you and you long for a familiar Christmas hug.

The same winter storm that painted my surroundings with beauty may have left some of you without power or provisions you need. Some may have meager pantries and little warmth for the winter.

Observing the world around us on television or real life, we are led to believe this holiday season is on shopping, spending, getting fancied up for some occasion, decorating and eating, eating, eating. If not careful, we can grow tired, frustrated, and feel abandoned.

I want to spend this few minutes thanking God for you who allow me into your homes each week. We’ll start again in January with some good helps and hints and always a word of encouragement.

I wish I could visit each home and let you know you are appreciated for all you do and you are loved for who you are. There is One whose birth we celebrate this week who loves you more than my words can possibly say. May His peace rule your heart and give you rest.

Contrary to the world’s view, Christmas is about giving, not getting. “For God so loved (you) that He gave His only son … ” The greatest joy of Christmas is in giving.  You show that throughout the year as you give of yourself to care for your family and others. I pray for you to have those around who care for you; appreciate you, offer you the support you need to do your job well.

I know One who will always be there for you; may His unfailing Love fill your life and spill out to those around you. “The Word became human and made his home among us. He was full of unfailing love and faithfulness. And we have seen his glory, the glory of the Father’s one and only Son.” John 1:14

God bless you!

Merry Christmas!

Hugs,

Next letter: shopping tips – stretching your time and money for the next year’s shopping needs!