New Year's Day Recipes - Black Eyed Peas and Collard Greens

Looking forward to fun, friendship and fellowship with you all in the coming year.


Here are a couple of recipes for traditional New Year's Day menu items. Enjoy!

Black Eyed Peas

You Will Need:

1 – 1lb Bag Of Black Eyed Peas, Dry
3 – Pieces Of Thick Bacon
2 - Tablespoons Olive Oil
1 – Tablespoon Chopped Onion
1/2 – Teaspoon Garlic Powder
1/4 – Teaspoon Crushed Red Pepper
1/4 - Teaspoon Black Pepper

Directions:

You can pick up a bag of dry blackeyed peas at your local grocery store. Start with a small bag of peas, about 1 pound. This should produce about 5-6 cups of cooked beans.

Sort through your peas removing any defective peas, dirt or debris that may be present. Place the peas in a colander and rinse several times.

After a good rinsing place peas in pot and cover with at least 3 inches of water. Place peas in your refrigerator and soak peas overnight.

After the peas have soaked overnight discard the water. Rinse peas one final time. Place peas into a large pot or dutch oven and cover with two inches of fresh water. Bring water to a boil then add other ingredients. Add lid to your pot and simmer 2 hours until peas are tender. Do not let water cook out. Add additional seasoning to taste if required.

Collard Greens

You Will Need:

Servings Size

• 
  

• 2 -3 medium smoked ham hocks or 2 lbs smoked pork neck bones
• 5 lbs collard greens (If you can't get them fresh, frozen will do.) or 2 -3 bunches collard greens (If you can't get them fresh, frozen will do.)
• 2 teaspoons salt

Directions:

1. Take 2 or 3 smoked ham hocks and put them in a large (6 quart) pot of water. Bring the water to a rolling boil and let it boil for about 1 1/2 hours. Add more water as it boils down. The idea is to boil the ham hocks until they begin to fall apart. You want the ham hocks to be falling apart before you add the collard greens.
2. Take the collard greens and separate the leaves (if fresh). Rinse each leaf individually under cold running water. After you rinse the collard greens thoroughly, stack several leaves on top of each other. Roll these leaves together. Then slice the leaves into thin strips using a cutting board and large knife. Rolling them together speeds up the process as you are slicking through several leaves at once.
3. Add your collard greens to the pot. Since this is a lot of collards, you will need to add them until the pot is full. Then allow them to wilt as they cook - then add more.
4. Add salt, cover and cook for thirty minutes on medium heat. Stir every few minutes to distribute the smoked meat taste evenly.

Wishing you all the best in 2011!

Joy to the World!

Merry Christmas to you and your families!

JOY TO THE WORLD! OUR LORD HAS COME!

How Many Kings? Only One!

Glory to God! Thankful for the gift of His son, Jesus our Savior King!

Luke 2: 1-20

And it came to pass in those days, that there went out a decree from Caesar Augustus, that all the world should be taxed. (And this taxing was first made when Cyrenius was governor of Syria.) And all went to be taxed, everyone into his own city. And Joseph also went up from Galilee, out of the city of Nazareth, into Judaea, unto the city of David, which is called Bethlehem; (because he was of the house and lineage of David) To be taxed with Mary his espoused wife, being great with child. And so it was, that, while they were there, the days were accomplished that she should be delivered. And she brought forth her firstborn son, and wrapped him in swaddling clothes, and laid him in a manger; because there was no room for them in the inn.

And there were in the same country shepherds abiding in the field, keeping watch over their flock by night. And, lo, the angel of the Lord came upon them, and the glory of the Lord shone round about them: and they were sore afraid. And the angel said unto them, Fear not: for, behold, I bring you good tidings of great joy, which shall be to all people. For unto you is born this day in the city of David a Saviour, which is Christ the Lord. And this shall be a sign unto you; Ye shall find the babe wrapped in swaddling clothes, lying in a manger. And suddenly there was with the angel a multitude of the heavenly host praising God, and saying,

"Glory to God in the highest, and on earth peace, good will toward men."

And it came to pass, as the angels were gone away from them into heaven, the shepherds said one to another, Let us now go even unto Bethlehem, and see this thing which is come to pass, which the Lord hath made known unto us. And they came with haste, and found Mary, and Joseph, and the babe lying in a manger. And when they had seen it, they made known abroad the saying which was told them concerning this child. And all they that heard it wondered at those things which were told them by the shepherds. But Mary kept all these things, and pondered them in her heart. And the shepherds returned, glorifying and praising God for all the things that they had heard and seen, as it was told unto them.

Holiday Drink Recipe - Red Hot Cider

Thanks to Chelle for introducing us to Red Hot Apple Cider at the Mud Monkey's!  It's easy and delicious!

 

What You Need:

1 qt. apple cider or juice
1/4 c. red hot candies

 

Directions:

Slowly melt candies in juice, stirring occasionally to prevent sticking. Serve.

The Wright Perspective

Chris and Nichole Wright are members of our church currently serving as missionaries in Accra Ghana.  The following was written by Chris to be shared with family and friends at Christmas.

"The Wright Perspective" 

Its beginning to look a lot like Christmas.  A little different here than what we are used to.  Instead of freezing weather, we are in the 90’s.  I wonder what Santa wears in Africa since it is so hot.  He is coming to our mall next week, so I guess we’ll find out.  That should be an experience. The semester is coming to a close and much is going on at the school.  The school hosted an orphanage for a Christmas dinner put on by the school’s community service club.  The orphanage was from the bush and were children of aids victims.  The children ranged from 2-17 years of age.  The children of the orphanage listed 3 presents they wanted on a piece of paper in the shape of an angel and hung it on a tree.  Families and teachers from the school took an angel and bought the presents for them.  The child we bought for was 14 years of age.  It broke my heart thinking of a 14 year old girl in an orphanage.  How long had she been there?  Did she have any family?  We purchased her gifts and went to the school on the Friday night to welcome the children.  As the children’s names were called out they each went up front to get their presents.   I noticed a wheel chair at the front.   One of the children had requested a new wheelchair.  As this child’s name was called, the workers from the orphanage said she was not able to come because she had just fallen out of her old wheelchair.  They then came to the girl we purchased the gifts for.  She was not there either so we did not get to meet her and see her open her presents or find out more about her.  You see so much poverty and sadness here that sometimes you become numb to it.  As we bought presents for this young girl, it reminded me each one has a story and they are each precious to our Father.  How can we reach these children with your love more Father?  What do you require of us?  Is sending some gifts on Christmas enough?  You left heaven to adopt us as your children.  Should we consider leaving our heaven to do the same?  These are all questions I faced thinking about these orphans. The school continues to grow in numbers and God is working among the teachers and the students.  We have seen 6 students make confessions of their faith this semester.  We continue to pray for the lost in our school.  Although the school is a Christian school, we have many children of various religions represented there.  Because of the education the children receive at AIS the parents are willing to put their children there.  As a result, we have the opportunity to witness to atheists, muslims, Buddhists and various other religious backgrounds. 

Prayer

Please pray for the school as we are looking into the purchase of new land to build.  We currently meet in a house converted into a school.  This was fine when we had 50 students, but now we are up to 190 students and we need much more room.  Oil has been discovered in Ghana and Accra seems to be growing more each year.  

As Accra increases, please pray that AIS will be a light on a hill burning bright for Christ.  Being here in Ghana with these teachers, we soon find out we are not the Hudson Taylors we have always read about.  Feelings get hurt, things are said, and divisions can easily occur.   

Please pray for unity at the school.  Our director often says God works here in spite of us.  And that is the truth.  We are human, but we serve a great God and He overcomes all of our weaknesses and failures. 

January Refreshment

What: Art and Soul Paint party with Katie Toombs.  We will be painting this lovely Cross on canvass:

You do not need to be artistic or creative to do this.  Katie will walk us through each step!

When: January 13, 2010 7:00-10:00

Where: Church Fellowship Hall

Why: Fun & Fellowship


How: Purchase your $20 ticket from at the Welcome Table.  Deadline to purchase tickets is January 5th.  There will be no exceptions to this cut-off date due to the prep-work involved.  If for some reason you will be unable to attend church prior to the January 5th cut-off date and would like to attend, please contact us ASAP and you can mail a check to Stacy prior to January 5th.

Preview of January

Tis the Season for a busy schedule! I hope everyone is having a wonderful Christmas season and remembering the real reason we celebrate!  Jesus is the Reason for the Season!


We have a great Refreshment planned for January!  I know everyone will want to attend.  I am posting this now because of the sign-up time frame.  Please notice that the cut-off for buying your ticket to this Refreshment is January 5th, and because of all the work involved in getting this together we will be unable to accept any late RSVP/ticket purchases.

January's "Refreshment" will be a paint party. We will be painting a cross on a canvas. Katie Toombs is the owner of Art and Soul in Germantown, and conducts parties for small groups, birthday parties, and church groups. You DO NOT have to be an artist to participate. The price is $20.00 and tickets go on sale Sunday, December 19th. The last day to buy tickets will be January 5th. There are NO exceptions to buying tickets later than January 5th because of the prep work for the canvases. The price includes your canvas, paints, and some yummy snacks!!!

We will be painting a cross similar to this at our January Refreshment!

Also in January we will begin sign-ups for Secret Sisters because in February Secret Sisters will Share the Love!  Watch for more information!

Cookie Swap!

Please view the information below regarding our Cookie Swap and then CLICK HERE to RSVP.

We will exchange cookies, visit, and enjoy hot chocolate in the nursery hallway while we watch our kids play in the adjoining rooms.

We kindly request that you bring only homemade cookies or treats. (Please feel free to make some slice n bakes if you are short on time.)

To participate in the cookie swap, please place 3-4 cookies/treats in a bag with the recipe attached. (Try to choose cookies/treats that can transport well! Our best estimate at this time would be to prepare approx. 6 dozen cookies/treats.

**Don't panic! ...remember, you get to take the same amount home for your family to enjoy!)

Click here for 36 awesome Christmas cookie recipes! 

Curl Up in Jesus' Lap

I got this in an email today and thought it was too sweet not to share.  I don't know if the story is true, but the gentle reminder is one we all could use from time to time.

The Nativity Scene was erected in a church yard.  During the night the folks came across this scene. An abandoned dog was looking for a comfortable, protected place to sleep. He chose baby Jesus as his comfort. No one had the heart to send  him away so he was there all night. We should all have the good sense of this dog and curl up in Jesus' lap from time to time.

Women's Ministry December Refreshment:

Broadway Tour of Homes

Thursday, Dec. 16

Meet at church at 6:15 

We will divide into 4 groups and carpool 

to see the Christmas decorations at 4 different homes.

Please sign up at the Ministry Table so we will have enough food at each home for those attending.

Holiday House information

Carol Stroud wanted to pass the following information along to all the REFRESH ladies:

You're Invite to

Holiday House

• Thursday, Dec 09, 2010 • 11:00am - 7:00pm
• 161 Northern Street West
• Hernando, MS 38632
•  901-550-5186      

**Refreshments & Shopping with Local Artists**

Joseph Eckles – Stoneware Offering Unique Hand Thrown Dinnerware & Decorative Pieces

Karen Bartlett – Knitted and Crocheted Baby Items

Gwen Luttrell – Hand Tied Fringe Scarves, Watercolor Paintings & Prints

Pam Turman – Hand Poured Soy Candles, Natural Soaps & Whipped Body Butters

Kyra McEnany – Unique and Eclectic Handbags, Belts & Accessories

Jennifer Holcomb – Whimsical Wear for Kids

Kay Robinson – Femme Fatales Original Artwork Cards

Judy Payne – Hand Made and Painted Ornaments, Stationery & Gifts

Carol Stroud – Precious Metals Fine Silver Jewelry

Rose Sitton – Acrylic Paintings & Prints

Shelly Johnstone – Architectural Photography

Amanda Tidwell – Appliquéd Children’s Clothing, Hair Bows & Accessories

Dawn Edwards - Altered Art & One-of-a-Kind Creations

Sherry Fernandez - Through The Lens Photography

The Candy Cane

I hope everyone had a wonderful Thanksgiving! We have so much to be thankful for... the friendship of the ladies in our Women's Ministry, our wonderful church and all the staff, volunteers and church family, our homes, families, friends, and so much more!

Welcome to the Christmas Season!

Share this story of the Candy Cane's origin with your family, and then make delicious Candy Cane Ice Cream!

Legend of the Candy Cane

According to legend there was a candy maker who wanted to invent a candy that was a witness to Christ.


First of all, he used a hard candy because Christ is the rock of ages. This hard candy was shaped so that it would resemble a “J” for Jesus or, turned upside down, a shepherd’s staff. He made it white to represent the purity of Christ.


Finally a red stripe was added to represent the blood Christ shed for the sins of the world, and three thinner red stripes for the stripes He received on our behalf when the Roman soldiers whipped Him. Sometimes a green stripe is added as a reminder that Jesus is a gift from God.


The flavor of the cane is peppermint, which is similar to hyssop. Hyssop is in the mint family and was used in the Old Testament for purification and sacrifice. Jesus is the pure Lamb of God, come to be a sacrifice for the sins of the world.


So, every time you see a candy cane, remember the message of the candy maker: Jesus is the Christ!


Candy Cane Poem


Jesus Gentle Shepherd, this cane of red and white proclaims the sweet love story, born on Christmas night
This cane, you see, when turned around begins your name of Love and now becomes a symbol of peace proclaimed above
The lively peppermint flavor is the regal gift of spice
The white is your purity and the red your sacrifice


And so this cane reminds us of just how much you care and like your Christmas Gift to us it's meant for all to share.

Candy Cane Ice-Cream

You will need:

1 pint good quality vanilla ice cream

1 teaspoon peppermint extract

4 candy canes, crushed

Directions:

Set the vanilla ice cream on the counter and let it come to room temperature.
Pour it into a mixing bowl and stir in the peppermint extract and crushed candy canes.
Then, return it to the ice-cream container and place it back in the freezer.
Allow to refreeze before serving.
Enjoy!

Mud Monkeys Refreshment Photos

Recipe of the Week - Baked Mac & Cheese

You Will Need:

2 1/2 cups uncooked macaroni
2 1/2 Tablespoons flour
1 1/4 teaspoons salt
Pepper to taste (I use about a teaspoon)
4 Tablespoons margarine
3 cups shredded cheddar cheese
1 cup milk

Directions:

Cook pasta until tender, drain. 

Mix all dry ingredients together, set aside. 

Spray oven safe bowl or dish with cooking spray. 

Place half of macaroni inside. 

Sprinkle half of the flour mixture over top and top with half of the margarine, sliced into small slices. 

Sprinkle 1 1/2 cups cheese over. 

Repeat. 

Pour milk over all. 

Cover with foil and bake at 350 for thirty five minutes. 

Remove foil, bake an additional ten minutes. 

Serve hot.

Update

If you missed Robert Smith from Upside Down Ministries this past weekend you can click here to hear his sermon on line, or many others you may have missed or would like to hear again.  Since Sunday I have been striving to "Be Present" in my life and remember that I have seen God in my yesterdays so I know he'll be there tomorrow, too.

Last night was our Refreshment at Mud Monkeys, and it was a blast!  Mud Monkeys was packed with Broadway Women, food and laughter.  I really enjoyed the opportunity to get to know so many wonderful ladies.  We are so blessed to have so many beautiful, sweet, funny, creative and talented women at Broadway!

Our next Refreshment will be the Broadway Christmas Tour of Homes on December 16th.  Make plans to attend!

Upcoming Events

(Please note, for some reason when "published" this post appears in all caps.  It does not look like this in the editor.  I have tried many times and ways to change this, and will continue to work on it.)

 

Our church is hosting a Parent Conference on Saturday, November 13 from 9:00 am – 12:30 pm. This conference is relevant for parents, grandparents and people who work with children of any ages.  Childcare is provided for babies through 5th grade. The conference is presented by Robert Smith of Upside Down Ministries. He will also be speaking in the Sunday morning service.

 

Also, don't forget our next Refreshment is November 16th 6:30-9:00 at Mud Monkey Pottery.  You can click here to visit the website and see some of the pieces available.  There is a $5 studio fee plus the cost of your pottery.  Tell a friend and bring a snack!

(Bonus) Recipe of the Week - Neiman Marcus Dip

My sister-in-law always makes this dip for family holiday get-togethers, and it's absolutely delicious.

You Will Need:

• 1/4 cup sliced almonds or pecans (optional)
• 4 slices bacon cooked,crumbled and cooled
• 1 cup sharp cheddar cheese, grated
• 1 green onion, sliced thinly
• 1/2 cup mayonnaise

Directions:

Mix all ingredients. Chill for at least 1 hour. The longer it chills, the better it tastes! Serve with Ritz crackers or corn chips.

*NOTE* Add more mayo if mix seems dry. Will moisten as it chills.
Substitute turkey bacon, low-fat mayo and low-fat cheese for a lighter version.

Recipe of the Week - Crescent Bacon-Cheddar Pinwheel Appetizers

There are only 15 days until Thanksgiving!  Check this site out for some great Thanksgiving recipes!

Here's a great little appetizer that can be served all year, but will be great for Thanksgiving for your family and friends to snack on while watching the parade, big games and while waiting for dinner:
 

You Will Need:

·  1 (8 ounce) can Pillsbury® refrigerated crescent dinner rolls or Pillsbury® Crescent Recipe Creations® refrigerated seamless dough sheet

·  2 tablespoons ranch dressing

·  1/4 cup cooked real bacon pieces

·  1/2 cup shredded Cheddar cheese

·  1/4 cup chopped green onions

Directions:

1.   Heat oven to 350 degrees F.

2.   If using crescent rolls: Unroll dough; separate into 2 long rectangles. Press each into 12x4-inch rectangle, firmly pressing perforations to seal. If using dough sheet: Unroll dough; cut lengthwise into 2 long rectangles. Press each into 12x4-inch rectangle.

3.   Spread dressing over each rectangle to edges. Sprinkle each with bacon, Cheddar cheese and onions.

4.   Starting with one short side, roll up each rectangle; press edge to seal. With serrated knife, cut each roll into 8 slices; place cut side down on ungreased cookie sheet.

5.   Bake 12 to 17 minutes or until edges are deep golden brown. Immediately remove from cookie sheet. Serve warm.

Cancer Doesn't Win - Candice Duffy

Candice's parents attend our church. She is a nurse at St. Judes, a wife and mother of four beautiful children.

Recently, a close friend of mine reminded me that in the end...cancer doesn't win. Every now and then, I need to hear that. I need to be reminded that this world is not the end. The things that plague us, the heartache we experience...it's not the end...and those things certainly do NOT win as much as Satan wants to bog me down with that lie.

John 16:33 "In this world you will have trouble. But take heart! I have overcome the world."

I can't tell you the number of times people have said, "I don't know how you work there (St. Jude Children's Research Hospital)." I guess my response to that is found in John 16:33. I work there because I know deep down no matter how many times I have to be reminded, that THIS is NOT the end. The one who made us has already won the battle and this is merely a breath in something more wonderful than our limited minds can even begin to comprehend.

As much as my heart breaks for every family that walks through the doors of the hospital completely unprepared to fight most likely the biggest battle of their lives, I love the opportunity I have to love on those children as if they are my own, to do whatever I can to make this journey a little bit easier.

I've always been the type of person to wear my emotions on my sleeves. As you can imagine, this can be quite a weakness. However, for me I feel it is also my biggest strength. I will never forget the first time I went back to work after having my first child. Everything changed. I wasn't just a nurse any longer. I was a nurse who was also a mother. That one thing changed my entire perspective. And I believe at that moment I became a better nurse. I still struggle when I care for a child who is around the age of one of my children. It's not impossible to let your mind think of the "what if's." What if that was my child lying in the bed? What if my child were fighting this horrible disease? What if I was the one sitting there unable to take this for my child? And then comes the wash of emotion. The desire to scoop up that child and love them and tell them it's gonna be ok...to do the very thing you'd do if it were your own there. I can only imagine the parent's thoughts when they see this crazy nurse snuggling their child :) But you know...When you've had a conversation on talking to angels with a 3 year old, when you've had school aged children ask you if their parents will be ok when they go to heaven, when you've watched a child take his last breath, when you've held a parent and cried with them because you didn't know what else to do, when you've had to answer a parent's worst nightmare question as you listen to a chest with no heartbeat because of a stupid disease that couldn't be stopped....you tend to not care anymore. You just want to give lots and lots of love when it matters most. And then there are those times that one of your first patients messages you on facebook wanting to be your friend and letting you know that they are in college now. You get a random letter in the mail with a picture of a grown, healthy person...who happens to be that little 7 year old you were head over heels for a decade ago. That's how I do what I do...and I love every second of it. And I HATE cancer as much as any one person ever could...but cancer doesn't win...ever.

So as the holiday seasons approach, GIVE THANKS...for your own health, for that of your children. Pray for those who are in the fight of their life right now because trust me, they need it and they cherish it. And most importantly, remember this is NOT the end. Thank you God, this is not the end!

Recipe of the Week - Yummy Sweet Potato Casserole!

First I thought some of you might enjoy Pie Countdown 2010.  It's 25 pie recipes in November counting down to Thanksgiving!

Please send me any Thanksgiving recipes you would like to share with everyone this month!

You Will Need:

Ingredients:

• 4 cups sweet potato, cubed
• 1/2 cup white sugar
• 2 eggs, beaten
• 1/2 teaspoon salt
• 4 tablespoons butter, softened
• 1/2 cup milk
• 1/2 teaspoon vanilla extract
• 1/2 cup packed brown sugar
• 1/3 cup all-purpose flour
• 3 tablespoons butter, softened
• 1/2 cup chopped pecans

Directions:

1. Preheat oven to 325 degrees F (165 degrees C). Put sweet potatoes in a medium saucepan with water to cover. Cook over medium high heat until tender; drain and mash.
2. In a large bowl, mix together the sweet potatoes, sugar, eggs, salt, butter, milk and vanilla. Mix until smooth. Transfer to a 9x13 inch baking dish.
3. In medium bowl, mix the sugar and flour. Cut in the butter until the mixture is coarse. Stir in the pecans. Sprinkle the mixture over the sweet potato mixture.
4. Bake in the preheated oven 30 minutes, or until the topping is lightly brown.

Refreshment Updates

This past Saturday the Broadway Girls participated in the MidSouth Race for the Cure in Germantown, TN with an estimated 19,000 other people in the area.  This has become an annual event for our Women's Ministry, so make sure you watch for it next year!

Our next Refreshment will be November 16th 6:30-9:00 at Mud Monkey Pottery.  You can click here to visit the website and see some of the pieces available.  There is a $5 studio fee plus the cost of your pottery. Stop by the Women’s Ministry table or see Lisa in the church office to pay your studio fee and then you will pay for the pottery you pick out that night.  Tell a friend and bring a snack that night!

Please note - Mud Monkey Pottery's location has changed. 

They are no longer on the corner of Goodman and Tchulahoma. 

 They are now in the Shops at Windstone. 

4850 Goodman Rd, Suite 101, Olive Branch, MS, 38654

(Follow-Up) Recipe of the Week - Pumpkin Bread French Toast!

This just screams, "Yummy Fall-time breakfast!" to me!  Let me know what you think, if you make it! ~angie

You will need:

4 large eggs
2 tablespoons sugar
1 cup whole milk
½ teaspoon vanilla extract
4 tablespoons unsalted butter
4 tablespoons vegetable oil
8 slices of day old pumpkin bread (recipe above), cut into ½-inch thick slices

Directions:

1. Whisk together the eggs and sugar in a large baking dish. Add the milk and vanilla and whisk until combined.

2. Heat 2 tablespoons of the butter and 2 tablespoons of the oil in a large nonstick sauté pan over medium high heat. Dip the pumpkin bread into the egg mixture and soak both sides for about 30 seconds. Place 4 slices of the bread into the pan and cook on both sides until golden brown, about 2 minutes per side. Remove to a platter and repeat with the remaining butter, oil and bread.

Recipe of the Week - Pumpkin Bread

I have actually made this Bobby Flay recipe before (I know there are some really shocked people out there right now).  It turned out great and it was pretty easy to make, too!  There is an amazing follow-up recipe to this that I will post before next week, in case anyone decides to make it this week! ~ angie

 You will need:

• 2 cups AP flour

• 1 teaspoon baking soda

• 1 teaspoon baking powder

• 1 teaspoon cinnamon

• ½ teaspoon nutmeg

• ½ teaspoon ginger

• ½ teaspoon salt

• 1 15 ounce can pumpkin puree

• 1 cup sugar

• 1 stick unsalted butter, melted and cooled

• 2 large eggs

• 2 teaspoons vanilla extract

• 1 cup toasted walnuts or pecans or cranberries, coarsely chopped

Directions:

1.Preheat oven to 350 degrees F. Spray a 9-inch loaf pan with nonstick baking spray. Whisk together flour, baking soda, baking powder, cinnamon, nutmeg, ginger and salt in a large bowl.

2. Whisk together pumpkin puree, sugar, butter, eggs and vanilla in separate large bowl until smooth. Add the flour mixture to the pumpkin mixture and mix until just combined. Fold in the walnuts.
 
3. Scrape the mixture into the prepared pan and bake in the oven until a toothpick inserted into the center comes out with a few moist crumbs. Let cool in the pan for 10 minutes before unmolding onto a wire rack to cool for 1 hour.

 

(Bonus) Recipe of the Week - Roasted Pumpkin Seeds!

You will need:

• 1 1/2 cups raw whole pumpkin seeds
• 2 teaspoons butter, melted
• 1 pinch salt

Directions:

1. Preheat oven to 300 degrees F (150 degrees C).
2. Toss seeds in a bowl with the melted butter and salt. Spread the seeds in a single layer on a baking sheet and bake for about 45 minutes or until golden brown; stir occasionally.

Gifts from God - Angie Palmore

What would you think if you gave your child a gift they refused to use.  It would probably be frustrating and disappointing, to say the least.

Do you ever wonder how God feels when His children refuse to use the gifts He has given them?

As each one has received a gift, minister it to one another, as good stewards of the manifold grace of God. 1 Peter 4:10

"I'm too shy."

"I don't have enough time."

"I don't have any talents or a spiritual gift."

I don't believe that God puts anyone on this Earth without giving them a gift.  Your gift may be your testimony of what God has done in your life.  If you've been saved you have a testimony!  Your gift could also be organization skills, working well with children, teaching, your great smile and outgoing personality, musical abilities.  There are so many possibilities!

Still think you don't have a gift?  Pray.  Ask God to reveal your gift to you.

Know your gift?  Pray.  Ask God to reveal how you can best use your gift to glorify Him.

We can always use more childcare workers, choir members, greeters, security . . . you get the picture. 

What's your gift?

Recipe of the Week - White Chicken Chili

I love fall.  As the weather changes each year I can't wait to make chili to celebrate the chilly weather. This is a very easy recipe, and the results are delicious!

1 pound cooked, chopped chicken
4 cans Northern Beans
1 can corn, drained
1 16 oz. jar salsa (I use mild, but you could spice it up more)
8 oz pepper jack cheese
32 oz carton chicken broth
1 packet of McCormick's White Chicken Chili seasoning mix

Put all ingredients in crock pot and cook for 4 hours (or simmer on stove).

A few tips you may want to consider:

You can use the meat from a rotisserie chicken.
I added a few drops of lemon juice and cut avocado to my bowl of chili, and it added just a hint of flavor that was delicious.

Count Your Blessings - Angie Palmore

I'm thankful to Pastor Tim for reminding me in a recent sermon how important it is to be thankful and to count my blessings one by one. Since that sermon my six year old son Aidan and I have been counting our blessings on the short ride to school each morning by saying all the things we are thankful for. Our days have been so much more positive since starting this. I challenge each of you to count your blessings each day, and include your family if you can.

This song by Kari Jobe is one of my favorites. He really is SO GOOD to us.



This is the day the Lord has made; we will rejoice and be glad in it. Psalm 118:24 NKJV

Recipe of the Week - Hot Ham and Cheese Rollups!

Thanks to Kim Wright for sharing this delicious recipe!

 You will need:

• 1 can refrig. pizza dough 
• 2 tsp. dried basil 
• 4 oz. thinly sliced reduced sodium deli smoked ham 
• 3/4 c. finely shredded mozzerella cheese 
• Cooking spray

Directions:

1. Preheat oven to 400 degrees. 
2. Roll out dough to a 12" square.  
3. Sprinkle w/ basil to 1/2" from edges.  
4. Top with ham slices, sprinkle with cheese to 1/2" from edges.
5. Roll up dough, jelly roll fashion.  
6. Place seam side down on a foil lined baking sheet, coated w/ cooking spray. 
7. Bake at 400 degrees for 20-25 min. or until golden brown. 
8. Cut into 1 1/2" slices.

Yield:  6 servings (serving size=2 roll ups)

WW points:  5/serving

He's Still Speaking - Kim Wright

The following devotion was written by Kim Wright.  She and her husband Larry are members of our church and have nine beautiful children.  

 

He's still speaking...

This morning I was reading in Exodus 3 & 4 about Moses' encounter with God in the burning bush. In this passage, God tells Moses that He has a special task for him. He wants Moses to speak to Pharaoh on behalf of the Israelites. Moses responds that he could never do that! Speaking was not his "gift"...in fact, he was downright terrible at it! God's reply was this: "...Who gave man his mouth? Who makes him deaf or mute? Who gives him sight or makes him blind? Is it not I, the Lord? Now, go; I will help you speak and will teach you what to say." (Exodus 4:11)

Now, I have read this passage many times and chuckled at Moses' lack of confidence. Surely, if God called me to do something, I would respond the right way...right? WRONG! In fact, God has called me to be a wife to my husband and the mother of 9 children. To be honest, I am not very good at it. Organization does not come naturally to me...neither does cooking...or housekeeping...in fact, like Moses, I often tell God that "I can't do this job!"

God gently reminded me this morning through this story that He is the One who made me. He knows my weaknesses. He will help me accomplish what He has called me to do.
"...If anyone serves, he should do it with the strength God provides, so that in all things God may be praised through Jesus Christ..." (I Pet. 4:11)

Recipe of the Week - Chai Tea Mix

You will need:

• 1 cup nonfat dry milk powder
• 1 cup powdered non-dairy creamer
• 1 cup French vanilla flavored powdered non-dairy creamer
• 2 1/2 cups white sugar
• 1 1/2 cups unsweetened instant tea
• 2 teaspoons ground ginger
• 2 teaspoons ground cinnamon
• 1 teaspoon ground cloves
• 1 teaspoon ground cardamom

Directions

1. In a large bowl, combine milk powder, non-dairy creamer, vanilla flavored creamer, sugar and instant tea. Stir in ginger, cinnamon, cloves and cardamom. In a blender or food processor, blend 1 cup at a time, until mixture is the consistency of fine powder.
2. To serve: Stir 2 heaping tablespoons Chai tea mixture into a mug of hot water.

Helpful note:  "Cardamom" is not a necessary ingredient. 

Overwhelmed! - Christie Smith

Christie Smith is a member of our church. She is the mother of five beautiful children.

I woke up at 5am with an overwhelming sense of thankfulness (& I havent had a pain pill since yesterday, so I know its not drug-induced ;). You ever have those days...those moments? Times where everything seems perfect? I remember having those times a lot as a kid. & Ive noticed those times are a lot fewer & far between since I became an "adult". But, is it because my life has become less perfect or is it that my view of life has changed. Without the responsibilities of life, the bills, the chores, the constant questioning of "what am I supposed to be doing with my life?"... without the 'have-to's'... I was able to just live day-by-day, enjoying each day as it came without worrying about tomorrow. I was able to see how God had blessed me, able to truly enjoy my life. So now, with so many more blessings to enjoy, why do those "perfect days" seem to come less often?
I know the answer. I know that its not my life that has changed or become any less perfect. I know that its all in my perspective. I just wish I had better control of that perspective. This is my new mission! Focus more on the perfectness of my life (& yes Mrs. Stephenson, I know that's not an actual word!) Im going to use my own words against myself & stop worrying about the things I can't control. Stop focusing on the things I dont have that I think would make my life better. Thinking back over the last 10 years of my life I can see so much that I've taken for granted, so many opportunities wasted worrying about things that are out of my hands, wishing for things that I thought would make me happier when the truth is God has given me EVERYTHING I need to be truly happy!
I'm sitting here in the early morning hours, overwhelmed at His blessings in my life, holding my 1week old baby girl & wondering what kind of person she will become. Thinking about each one of my kids & amazed at the unique people they are becoming. Thankful for the role God is allowing me to play in their lives, but fully aware that He has more of a role in who they will become than I ever could (thank God for that!)
Today I am thankful for the peace that He has given me and I'm going to try to hang on to this peace with everything I have! Im not going to let the duties of everyday life steal my peace! Because I know if I concentrate on the "what if's" & "have to's" of this life, the list of "what if's" & "have to's" will NEVER end! But, I also know that if I concentrate of everything God has given me, the list of blessings He bestows on me will also NEVER end!!!

The following thought is from Nichole Wright.  She and her husband Chris are members of our church, and are missionaries with NICS (Network of International Christian Schools) in Accra, Ghana.  She and her husband have 5 children.  Nichole teaches British Literature to Seniors at their school.

I was telling Chris last night that we often wonder or ask the question "God what is it to really surrender my life to you, to give up my best so that you can give me the better?" It occurred to me shortly after that we hang onto the lifestyle we have because we believe it is neither good nor bad....just better. We fear that the sacrifice of what God asks of us is to give up our desires realizing not that it is like a child hanging from a window pane trying to escape the fiery room in front of him. He can hear the people down below screaming "let go!" but he can see nothing but the pavement which he fears more than the fire. We all know it requires faith to let go but what we fail to realize as we hang in the balance is that Life for the child hanging is in letting go.

Recipe of the Week - Eclair Cake!

Mrs. Paula made this Eclair Cake for us when we met at her home to plan Refreshments for our Women's Ministry REFRESH, and it was absolutely delicious! 

You will need:

• 2 (3.5 ounce) packages instant vanilla pudding mix
• 1 (8 ounce) container frozen whipped topping, thawed
• 3 cups milk
• 1 (16 ounce) package graham cracker squares
• 1 (16 ounce) package prepared chocolate frosting

Directions

1. In a medium bowl, thoroughly blend the pudding mix, whipped topping, and milk.
2. Arrange a single layer of graham cracker squares in the bottom of a 13x9 inch baking pan. Evenly spread half of the pudding mixture over the crackers. Top with another layer of crackers and the remaining pudding mixture. Top with a final layer of graham crackers.
3. Spread the frosting over the whole cake up to the edges of the pan. Cover, and chill at least 4 hours before serving.

Helpful note: The frosting will be easier to spread if the cake is covered and chilled for about 30 minutes before spreading.

Mrs. Paula's pointer for those of you on Weight Watchers or watching what you eat:

I used RF graham crackers, SF/FF pudding, skim milk, FF Cool Whip, and SF chocolate frosting made with Splenda. I figured it was about 3 points cutting it in 24 slices.

Introducing . . . Refresh!

Ladies, do you feel that as women, you are always pouring yourselves into others-your husband, children, parents, neighbors, friends in need, and others? We often invest ourselves emotionally in others, so much so that we sometimes feel depleted. We long to be refreshed. The Bible promises that “…those who refresh others will themselves be refreshed.” (Prov. 11:25b) This is the heartcry of our Women’s Ministry at Broadway…that those who are spending themselves refreshing others, will come away refreshed emotionally, physically, and spiritually so that they can continue to serve with vigor, recognizing that true refreshment can only come from a thriving relationship in Jesus Christ.

Please come be part of Broadway Baptist Women’s Ministry REFRESH by participating in the upcoming monthly “Refreshments:”

Sat., Oct. 30 – Race for the Cure – Help fight cancer by walking, running, or supporting a participant on the Broadway Girls team. Sign up at http://www.komenmemphis.org/ or see Stacy McSpadden for more information.

Tues., Nov. 16 – 6:30-9:00 – Mississippi Mud Monkey Pottery- purchase $5.00 ticket for studio fee by Nov. 1. You will pay for the pottery when you arrive that night. Take snacks to share.

Thurs., Dec. 16 – Broadway Tour of Homes for Christmas

Thurs., Jan. 13 – Paint Party – Amaze yourself by painting your own masterpiece to hang in your home or give away. $20.00 - includes all supplies

Thurs., Feb. 24 – Secret Sisters Show the Love