The BEST part of the entire night every kid sitting quietly watching Frozen!
Saturday, April 5, 2014
kids will play...
While the parents go out on a date or go back home and watch HGTV!!! Thank you for letting us play with your kids and fill them full of sugar;-) just kidding!! Here are a few pictures to enjoy! !
Things I Want My Kids to Remember"
We had the privilege of having pastor Pete from Woodcrest Church and his wife Dawn give us a few pointers on raising our children with a godly attitude at our recent meeting! Here they are in case you missed it:
1. Life isn't always fair! (Jeremiah 12:1)
Kids watch how we model when life isn't fair! How do you react to God?
2. Take responsibility for your actions! (Exodus 32:21-24)
This is a sign of courage and maturity...
3. Watch you tongue! (James 3:1-12)
Kids hang onto your every word and sometimes it is the negative words that hurt and stay with them the longest
4. Enjoy life now-not later!! (Ecclesiastes 11:7-10)
Don't wait to invest in your children or spouse take time now and enjoy every moment!
Thursday, January 16, 2014
Beet & Chèvre salad
Beet & Chèvre salad
1/2 package Spring Greens and 1/2 package leafy romaine
1/4 c freeze dried corn
1/4 c julienned beets
1/4 c goat cheese crumbles
1/4 c Craisins
1/4 c candied nuts
Toss with oil and vinegar, or Brianna's poppyseed dressing.
Chocolate Chip-Peanut Butter Bars
Chocolate Chip-Peanut Butter Bars
Base and topping:
2 1/4 C quick oats
1 1/4 C packed brown sugar
1 C flour
1/2 tsp baking soda
1 C butter, softened
Filling:
1 can (14 oz.) sweetened condensed milk
1/4 C peanut butter
1/2 tsp vanilla
1 C semisweet chocolate chips
1/2 C coarsely chopped salted peanuts-optional
1. Heat oven to 350 degrees. Grease 13X9 inch pan with shortening or cooking spray. In a large bowl, beat base and topping ingredients on low speed until crumbly. Reserve 2C crumb mixture for topping. Press remaining mixture evenly into bottom of pan.
2. In a small bowl, mix condensed milk, peanut butter and vanilla until well blended. Pour evenly over base. sprinkle with chocolate chips and peanuts, if desired. Sprinkle reserved crumb mixture over top; press down gently.
3. Bake 25-30 minutes until golden brown. (Center will not be set) Cool completely, about 1 hr. Cut bars to desired size
Saturday, December 21, 2013
The Power of Spoken Blessings
Mentor Mom Devotional by Mary Timmers
In Place of a major life overhaul--an maybe you need it, try using a blessing to bring peace and calm.
God gave this blessing to the Israelites for a good reason. He wanted them to remember it and then USE IT OVER AND OVER. It's an example of w hat a blessing looks like, but we can always come up with our own.
The important thing is to take God and His qualities and personalize them and then place them up to the person you want to receive God's blessing.
One for your child going to sleep at night is:
"Johnny, May God give to you deep and refreshing sleep. May He bring dreams of you walking with Him in beautiful places. May you rest in Him tonight and all day tomorrow. Love and peace be with you as you close your eyes."
These are the last words your child will hear from you before he falls asleep.
Maybe you're thinking "Oh yeah, you don't know my kid. He might hear many more words from me before he finally goes to sleep." :)
Here's my challenge to you. Keep doing this every night. Say a blessing over your children, to your teenager as they go out the door to school, to your husband as he leaves for work, and see how God blesses you and your loved one!
-Mary
Saturday, December 14, 2013
Burlap Christmas Wreath
We all had the chance to get crafty and make a cute burlap wreath for our homes. Here are a few pictures of our moms helping each other and having fun making the wreath. Here is a link to the tutorial in case you missed it:-) Burlap Wreath
This Iis what the wreath looks like!
Sunday, November 17, 2013
Bunco
We enjoyed it so much we have decided to try to do it monthly starting in January. So, mark your calendars for the next night (open to all) which will be January 16th. Courtney Bradshaw has offered to host. More details will come.
Here are a couple pics from the evening as well as the recipe for what I now know are called the official bunco sandwiches.
Baked Ham Sandwiches
Sandwiches:
24 dollar buns
1 lb sliced swiss cheese
1 1/2- 2 lbs sliced honey ham
Sauce:
1 cup butter
2 tsp Worcestershire sauce
2 tsp poppy seeds
4 tsp Brown sugar
Boil sauce and let cool
Place buns in rectangular cake pans (12 in each 9x13)- used 1 1/2-2 slices of ham and 3/4 slice of cheese on each
Spoon cooled sauce over top of sandwiches then cover with tin foil and refrigerate for 4 hours or overnight.
Preheat oven to 325 degrees. Bake for 20 minutes covered with tin foil, then remove and bake for 5 more minutes.
There is a little bit of a variation with this recipe (uses Hawaiian rolls and mustard)
http://www.recipelion.com/Sandwiches/Bunco-Buns
Sunday, October 27, 2013
A Prayer for our Beautiful Mommy Mess'
A Prayer for the Ephesians
14 For this reason I kneel before the Father, 15 from whom every family[a] in heaven and on earth derives its name. 16 I pray that out of his glorious riches he may strengthen you with power through his Spirit in your inner being, 17 so that Christ may dwell in your hearts through faith. And I pray that you, being rooted and established in love, 18 may have power, together with all the Lord’s holy people, to grasp how wide and long and high and deep is the love of Christ, 19 and to know this love that surpasses knowledge—that you may be filled to the measure of all the fullness of God.20 Now to him who is able to do immeasurably more than all we ask or imagine, according to his power that is at work within us, 21 to him be glory in the church and in Christ Jesus throughout all generations, for ever and ever! Amen.
Ephesians 3:14-21
What you want is not always what you need, tune yourself into what God wants to teach you, and you will see what God has in store for you EVERYWHERE!! Remember your mess does not disqualify you from sharing your story. There is hope in every story...even yours!!
Saturday, October 19, 2013
Breakfast Pasta
If you are looking for something different to make for your next family brunch get together or you want to mix it up a bit for breakfast time here is a yummy breakfast pasta you can try that Joanna shared with us at our last MOPS meeting!! ENJOY!!
Breakfast Pasta
Ingredients:
1 lb linguine
3 tablespoons extra virgin olive oil
½ lb baby new potatoes, quartered
1 medium yellow onion, diced
½ red bell pepper, diced
½ green bell pepper, diced
1 tablespoons fresh thyme, minced
1 tablespoon unsalted butter
4 eggs plus 2 egg whites, lightly beaten
2/3 cup cheddar cheese, grated
½ lb bacon, cooked and crumbled
Directions:
1. Place a large pot, filled with water, over medium-high heat and bring to a boil.
2. Once the water has come to a boil, drop the pasta in along with a small handful of salt (about 3 tablespoons).
3. Cook the pasta for 7 to 9 minutes or until al dente, stirring frequently.
4. Drain the pasta, toss with a small amount of oil and set aside.
5. Place the olive oil in a large sauté pan and place over medium heat.
6. Add the potatoes to the pan and season with salt and pepper.
7. Sauté for 5 minutes and add the onion, bell peppers and thyme. Season with salt/pepper and stir.
8. Sauté the mixture for 6 to 8 minutes or until the onions and peppers have softened and the potatoes become fork tender.
9. Pour the mixture into a bowl and set aside.
10. Place the pan back on the stove over medium heat and add the tablespoon of butter.
11. Pour the beaten eggs to the pan and gently scramble for about 2 minutes.
12. Add the cheese and stir. The mixture should still be a partially runny.
13. Add the linguine and potato mixture to the pan and toss together until everything is fully combined and the eggs have cooked through. Season with salt and pepper.
14. Sprinkle the bacon over the pasta and serve hot.
Breakfast PastaIngredients:
1 lb linguine
3 tablespoons extra virgin olive oil
½ lb baby new potatoes, quartered
1 medium yellow onion, diced
½ red bell pepper, diced
½ green bell pepper, diced
1 tablespoons fresh thyme, minced
1 tablespoon unsalted butter
4 eggs plus 2 egg whites, lightly beaten
2/3 cup cheddar cheese, grated
½ lb bacon, cooked and crumbled
Directions:
1. Place a large pot, filled with water, over medium-high heat and bring to a boil.
2. Once the water has come to a boil, drop the pasta in along with a small handful of salt (about 3 tablespoons).
3. Cook the pasta for 7 to 9 minutes or until al dente, stirring frequently.
4. Drain the pasta, toss with a small amount of oil and set aside.
5. Place the olive oil in a large sauté pan and place over medium heat.
6. Add the potatoes to the pan and season with salt and pepper.
7. Sauté for 5 minutes and add the onion, bell peppers and thyme. Season with salt/pepper and stir.
8. Sauté the mixture for 6 to 8 minutes or until the onions and peppers have softened and the potatoes become fork tender.
9. Pour the mixture into a bowl and set aside.
10. Place the pan back on the stove over medium heat and add the tablespoon of butter.
11. Pour the beaten eggs to the pan and gently scramble for about 2 minutes.
12. Add the cheese and stir. The mixture should still be a partially runny.
13. Add the linguine and potato mixture to the pan and toss together until everything is fully combined and the eggs have cooked through. Season with salt and pepper.
14. Sprinkle the bacon over the pasta and serve hot.
Saturday, October 5, 2013
Girlfriends Guide to Friendship
Friends come
and friends go, but a true friend sticks by you like family. Proverbs 18: 24 (The Message): speaker Jen Zick
Signs of a healthy friendship:•You feel loved and accepted as you. You don’t have to prove anything.
•You are comfortable being open and honest with your friend.
•When you think of spending time with this person, you smile.
•Your memories of time spent with this person bring you joy.
•You can be real about your faith, your convictions and values (even if they don’t share the same beliefs).
•Your friendship doesn’t tempt you to sin or compromise your values.
•Your friend protects your confidences, and shares hers with you.
•Your feel like a better, brighter version of yourself when you spend time with this person.
Signs of an unhealthy
relationship
•You feel judged, or that you need to prove yourself (clothes, house, decisions about raising your children, marriage, etc.)
•You hold back on things you’d like to say, because you’re afraid that your friend will be defensive or angry. (Beyond the normal filtering.)
•When you think of spending time with this person, you feel tired. You may create excuses to avoid them.
•Your memories of time spent with this person are dull or regretful.
•You don’t talk about your faith, convictions or values.
•You find yourself in situations or environments that aren’t “true to you” –where you may be tempted to sin or compromise values.
•You can’t trust this person with your confidences.
•You feel like a worn-out, lesser version of yourself when you spend time with this person.
THE MOST IMPORTANT FRIENDSHIP
Is Jesus my BFF?
If you are not sure of your salvation in Jesus, you can be today –It’s
the MOST important decision you’ll ever make. Perhaps you have invited Jesus into
your life, but you have not prioritized your relationship with him. He’s reaching
out to you, but you’ve been drifting away, caught up in your own life. If you
have not made Jesus your BFF, now is the time. Make him #1 on your list of
friends to proactively seek out.
Signs of a healthy friendship:•You feel loved and accepted as you. You don’t have to prove anything.
•You are comfortable being open and honest with your friend.
•When you think of spending time with this person, you smile.
•Your memories of time spent with this person bring you joy.
•You can be real about your faith, your convictions and values (even if they don’t share the same beliefs).
•Your friendship doesn’t tempt you to sin or compromise your values.
•Your friend protects your confidences, and shares hers with you.
•Your feel like a better, brighter version of yourself when you spend time with this person.
•You feel judged, or that you need to prove yourself (clothes, house, decisions about raising your children, marriage, etc.)
•You hold back on things you’d like to say, because you’re afraid that your friend will be defensive or angry. (Beyond the normal filtering.)
•When you think of spending time with this person, you feel tired. You may create excuses to avoid them.
•Your memories of time spent with this person are dull or regretful.
•You don’t talk about your faith, convictions or values.
•You find yourself in situations or environments that aren’t “true to you” –where you may be tempted to sin or compromise values.
•You can’t trust this person with your confidences.
•You feel like a worn-out, lesser version of yourself when you spend time with this person.
THE MOST IMPORTANT FRIENDSHIP
Is Jesus my BFF?
1. Have you invited Jesus into your life and heart, and asked him
to forgive your sins? Are you confident that if you died today, you would spend
eternity with Him in heaven?
2. Do you know his love for you? Do you feel that love alive
inside of you in how you relate to others?
3. Do you make time for Jesus? Are you proactively investing in
your relationship with Him?
4. Have you asked him to be at work in you, and in every one of
your relationships, for His glory?
What friends might God be bringing across your path? What
opportunities might you have to make a Christian connection or minister to a
non-believer in your communities? Make a list of your primary communities below
(MOPS, neighborhood, church, school, workplace, clubs, activities, other). Next
to these items, jot down any actions you feel God is leading you to take to
connect with others (i.e. Invite Jake’s mom to MOPS). If you’re not sure, just
pray that God would lead you and help you to keep an open heart and open eyes.
Friday, August 2, 2013
A Beautiful Mess
Verse: Ephesians 2:10 (New Living Translation)
Addressing the felt needs of moms through this theme:
Moms live in messes. The toys, crumbs, and spit-up are their natural surroundings. Moms often feel like a mess. They are exhausted, under-showered, and hormonal. Their past and present circumstances and decisions can leave them feeling inadequate for God’s love and purposes.
A Beautiful Mess — reminds moms that beauty can come out of their difficult spots. The grime of mothering young children brings the beauty of motherhood. The bruises of life can bring God’s redemption.
Embrace Your Story — reminds moms that their past, present and future can be used for good. God knows where each of us has been, where we are today and has set in motion where we are headed.
Why MOPS?
Woodcrest MOPS exists to encourage, equip and develop every mother of preschoolers to realize her potential as a woman, mother and leader. We strive to develop meaningful relationships through small groups and to share our love of Jesus Christ.Where is MOPS?
Woodcrest MOPS meets at Woodcrest Church in Eagan. You do not have to be a member of Woodcrest Church to be a member of MOPS. All are welcome!525 Cliff Rd
Eagan, MN 55123
Find out more about the church and all the ministries there at Mops of Woodcrest
Join Us!
If you are interested in joining the Woodcrest MOPS group, or if you have additional questions, please contact Krissa Lusk by e-mail at krissaa@hotmail.comSaturday, May 18, 2013
Verses to Reflect On
MOPS 2012-2013
Jeremiah 29:11
“For I know the plans I have for you,” declares the Lord, “plans to prosper you and not to harm you, plans to give you hope and a future.”
Philippians 4:11
I am not saying this because I am in need,
for I have learned to be content whatever the circumstances.
“I can do everything in him who gives me
strength”
You need to persevere so that when you have
done the will of God, you will receive what he has promised.
but those who hope in the Lord will renew their
strength. They will soar on wings like
eagles; they will run and not grow weary, they will walk and not be faint.
Consider it pure joy, my brothers and sisters,
whenever you face trials of many kinds, because you know that the testing of
your faith produces perseverance. Let
perseverance finish its work so that you may be mature and complete, not
lacking anything.
Romans 5:3-4
Not only so, but we also glory in our sufferings,
because we know that suffering produces perseverance; perseverance, character;
and character, hope.
No temptation has overtaken you except what is
common to mankind. And God is faithful;
he will not let you be tempted beyond what you can bear. But, when you are
tempted, he will also provide a way out so that you can endure it.
The Lord replied, “My Presence will go with
you, and I will give you rest.”
I keep my eyes always on the Lord. With him at my right hand, I will not be
shaken.
Hear my cry, O God; listen to my prayer. From the ends of the earth I call to you, I
call as my heart grows faint; lead me to the rock that is higher than I. For you have been my refuge, a strong tower
against my foe.
“Come to me, all you who are weary and
burdened, and I will give you rest. Take
my yoke upon you and learn from me, for I am gentle and humble in heart, and
you will find rest for your soles. For
my yoke is easy and my burden is light.”
Your beauty should not come from outward
adornment, such as elaborate hairstyles and the wearing of gold jewelry or fine
clothes. Rather, it should be that of
your inner self, the unfading beauty of a gentle and quiet spirit, which is of
great worth in God's sight.
“I leave my peace with you. I give my peace to you. I do not give it to you as the world
does. Do not let your hearts be troubled,
and do not be afraid.”
“. . . ask god to fill you with the
knowledge of his will through all the wisdom and understanding that the Spirit
gives, so that you may live a life worthy of the Lord and please Him in every
way
God is our refuge and strength, an ever present
help in trouble”
For I am the Lord; I do not change
Be strong and courageous. Do not fear or be in dread of them, for it is
the Lord your God who goes with you. He
will not leave you or forsake you.
Trust in the Lord with all your heart, and do not
rely on your ways, and he will make your paths straight.
“As far as the east is from the west, so far
has he removed our transgressions from us.”
So do not be afraid, I am with you. Do not be terrified. I am your God. I will make you strong and help you. My powerful right hand will take good care of
you.
Thursday, April 25, 2013
Egg Boats N Salads
Baked Egg Boats
Makes 4
Ingredients:Makes 4
4 demi sourdough baguettes
5 eggs
1/3 cup heavy cream
4 ounces pancetta, finely chopped and fried until crisp
3 ounces gruyere cheese, grated
2 green onions, thinly sliced
salt and pepper to taste
Directions:
1. Preheat oven to 350 degrees F.
2. Cut a deep “V” through the tops of each baguette until about a 1/2 inch to the bottom. Partially unstuff the baguettes. Set aside.
3. Place the eggs and cream into a mixing bowl and lightly beat together. Whisk in the remaining ingredients and lightly season with salt and pepper.
4. Divide and pour the mixture into each baguette boat and place onto a baking sheet.
5. Bake for 20 to 25 minutes or until golden brown, puffed and set in the center. Season with salt and pepper.
6. Allow to cool for about 5 minutes, cut and serve.
2. Cut a deep “V” through the tops of each baguette until about a 1/2 inch to the bottom. Partially unstuff the baguettes. Set aside.
3. Place the eggs and cream into a mixing bowl and lightly beat together. Whisk in the remaining ingredients and lightly season with salt and pepper.
4. Divide and pour the mixture into each baguette boat and place onto a baking sheet.
5. Bake for 20 to 25 minutes or until golden brown, puffed and set in the center. Season with salt and pepper.
6. Allow to cool for about 5 minutes, cut and serve.
Cashew Chicken Salad
Dressing
½ Cup Sour Cream
½ Cup Mayo
½ Cup Miricle Whip
½ Packet Ranch Seasoning
…Mix In A Large Bowl
…Add Dill, Salt & Pepper to Taste
Salad
½ Box Med Shells, Cooked
1 Box Tyson Pre-cooked Chicken
2 Green Onions, Diced
½ Can (Small) Peas
1 ½ Chopped Celery
…Mix Into Large Bowl with Dressings
…Chill Overnight
…Before Serving Top with Paprika and Cashews
Thursday, March 28, 2013
Domestic Diva Devo
Domestic
Diva.
mentor mom devotion by Misty
I
wouldn’t
even
know
how
to
define
that
term.
I
do
like
to
make
meals
for
my
family
from
scratch.
However,
I
am
the
least
crafty
person
I
know.
As
a
matter
of
fact,
when
I
was
a
MOPS
mom,
I
avoided
doing
the
craft.
And
we
had
a
craft
every
week!
I
feel
that
there
is
even
more
pressure
on
moms
to
be
“Pinterest”
moms.
So,
today,
I
thought
we
would
look
at
who
we
are
in
Christ.
These are adapted from a post written by Joyce Meyers:
*We are God’s children for we are born again of the incorruptible seed of the Word of God, which lives and abides forever. (1Peter 1:23)
*We are God’s workmanship, created in Christ to do good works. (Ephesians 2:10)
*We are joint-‐heirs with Christ. (Romans 8:17)
*We are overcomers by the blood of the Lamb and the word of our testimony.
(Revelation 12:11)
*We are a chosen people, a royal priesthood, a holy nation, God’s special possessions, that we may declare praises of Him who called us out of darkness into His wonderful light.
(1 Peter 2:9)
We are royalty. We are princesses, girls! However, I know that we all have insecurities. If you are feeling insecure and unworthy, those are the lies of Satan. Our true identity is in our Creator.
In Genesis, the Bible tells us that Jacob waited seven years to marry Rachel but to him it seemed only like a day because of his love for her. I feel fairly certain that we all have the desire to be loved like that. Whether or not we find that kind of love in this life, we will have a King who loves us desperately and will have an eternity with Him. We are the brides of Christ!
Friday, March 15, 2013
Cinnamon Baked French Toast
recipe from The Pioneer Woman
Thank you Sarah Brass for finding this yummy recipe and giving it a try for our meeting this morning. After the first bite everyone fell in love:) It even made the room smell delish!! A little secret she shared with us at our table is instead of sourdough bread she used wheat bread from the Great Harvest Bread Co!! Enjoy:)
Ingredients
French Toast:
1 loaf Crusty Sourdough Or French Bread8 whole Eggs
2 cups Whole Milk
1/2 cup Whipping (heavy) Cream
3/4 cups Sugar
2 Tablespoons Vanilla Extract
Topping:
1/2 cup All-purpose Flour
1/2 cup Firmly Packed Brown Sugar
1 teaspoon Cinnamon
1/4 teaspoon Salt
1 stick Cold Butter, Cut Into Pieces
Fresh Fruit (optional)
Preparation Instructions
Grease 9 x 13-inch baking pan with butter. Tear bread into chunks (or cut into cubes) and evenly distribute in the pan.
Mix together eggs, milk, cream, sugar, and vanilla. Pour evenly over bread. Cover tightly and store in the fridge several hours or overnight.
In a separate bowl, mix flour, brown sugar, cinnamon, and salt. Add nutmeg if desired. Add butter pieces and but into the dry mixture until mixture resembles fine pebbles. Store in a Ziploc in the fridge.
When you're ready to bake the casserole, preheat oven to 350 degrees. Remove casserole from oven and sprinkle crumb mixture over the top. (If you're using fruit, sprinkle on before the crumb mixture.) Bake for 45 minutes for a softer, more bread pudding texture. Bake 1 hour or more for a firmer, less liquid texture.
Scoop out individual portions. Top with butter and drizzle with maple syrup
Mix together eggs, milk, cream, sugar, and vanilla. Pour evenly over bread. Cover tightly and store in the fridge several hours or overnight.
In a separate bowl, mix flour, brown sugar, cinnamon, and salt. Add nutmeg if desired. Add butter pieces and but into the dry mixture until mixture resembles fine pebbles. Store in a Ziploc in the fridge.
When you're ready to bake the casserole, preheat oven to 350 degrees. Remove casserole from oven and sprinkle crumb mixture over the top. (If you're using fruit, sprinkle on before the crumb mixture.) Bake for 45 minutes for a softer, more bread pudding texture. Bake 1 hour or more for a firmer, less liquid texture.
Scoop out individual portions. Top with butter and drizzle with maple syrup
Make N Take fun!
1 Tbsp chili powder
1/4 tsp garlic powder
1/4 tsp onion powder
1/4 tsp crushed red pepper flakes (we omitted)
1/4 tsp dried oregano
1/2 tsp paprika
1.5 tsp ground cumin
1/2 to 1 tsp sea salt (more or less to taste)
1 tsp black pepper
1. In small bowl, mix all ingredients and store in airtight container. (Or you can mix it together in the container you are going to store it in–just give it a shake!) 2. Add 2 to 3 tablespoons of this mixture plus 1/2 to 3/4 cup of water to one pound of cooked meat (of your choice). Simmer over medium heat, stirring frequently until there is very little liquid left in the pan. 
5 tablespoons dried minced onions
7 teaspoons parsley flakes
4 teaspoons salt
1 teaspoon garlic powder
Mix together and store in an air tight container.
For dressing: Mix 2 tablespoons dry mix with 1 cup mayonnaise and 1 cup buttermilk or sour cream.
For dip: Mix 2 tablespoons dry mix with 2 cups sour cream.
Mix up a few hours before serving, so the flavors all blend.
Hummus
4 garlic cloves
2 cups canned chickpeas, drained, liquid reserved
1 1/2 teaspoons kosher salt
1/3 cup tahini (sesame paste)
6 tablespoons freshly squeezed lemon juice (2 lemons)
2 tablespoons water or liquid from the chickpeas
8 dashes hot sauce (we omitted)
Turn on the food processor fitted with the steel blade and drop the garlic down the feed tube; process until it's minced. Add the rest of the ingredients to the food processor and process until the hummus is coarsely pureed. Taste, for seasoning, and serve chilled or at room temperature.
1 cup grated Fels Naptha Soap
½ cup washing soda
½ cup borax
Mix together and pour into container
For light load, use 1 tablespoon, for heavy or soiled, use 2 tablespoons
Powdered Dishwasher Detergent
Equal parts baking soda and borax
One load = 2 Tbs
¼ cup of oats
¾ cup of coconut oil
few drops of rosemary oil (optional)
1 tbsp of olive oil
Finely grind the oats to a powder/flour consistency and set aside. (You can use a blender, food processor or Magic Bullet type of appliance)
Over a low heat, melt the coconut oil in a pan until it has a liquid consistency.
Add in a few drops of rosemary oil (optional)
Add ground oats in the pan and mix until well blended
Now pour the olive oil into the mixture until blended
Once all the ingredients are mixed, remove from heat and pour into a small storage container. Let it harden for several hours.
Apply to hands and skin as needed.
Monday, March 4, 2013
mentor mom devo Romans 12:15
Romans 12:15 “Rejoice with those who rejoice, weep with those who weep.”
I love being able to celebrate good things happening in a friend’s life. But how can I begin to help a friend who is going through something difficult?
Sometimes it feels easiest to pretend that nothing has happened, to say nothing, do nothing. I can justify it by telling myself that I don’t know what to say and it is probably better to just stay out of it. Has that worked for you? For decades I regretted not saying anything to a classmate whose father had died suddenly. I came to realize that my lack of knowing what to say was much less important than his pain.
A big first step is to listen to what your friend feels comfortable with sharing. Look for a time when the two of you can talk without others around. Instead of asking how she is, try asking how she feels about something. Each of us reacts to things differently. What can be small to one may be a deep grief to another. The important thing is to listen to her, to acknowledge her pain, and to listen without giving answers.
Respect how much she feels like sharing and don’t push for more than she wants to give. Focus on her. Remember that what she shares is private. Ask before sharing with another person. The only exception to this would be if you felt your friend was in danger of hurting herself or another. If you are feeling overwhelmed, it may be appropriate to suggest she get help from a professional. There should be no shame in asking for help.
A hug might be the best thing you could give.
Be sensitive to her. If you have something to share that may be painful for her to hear, let her know the news privately before sharing it in front of a group or sending the news electronically. If you can think of some practical service to offer your friend, and are able to give it, offer. Could she use a meal? Would an hour or two of childcare help? Pick something up at a store? Ask her what would be helpful. Sometimes a short note of encouragement can be wonderful. Take the time to write out a special verse that has encouraged you.
I asked the other mentor moms for any suggestions they might have, and Mary mentioned women like to get stuff and bringing a small gift of something that is your favorite is a practical thing. A gift card, even in a small amount says you took the time and made the effort.
Letting others know you will be praying for them is good, but Mary also had a wonderful suggestion. “Instead of saying ‘I’ll pray for you’, say ‘May I pray for you right now?’ And then do it. This can be scary, especially for people who are not comfortable praying out loud in front of others. But this is the time to get over that and realize what comfort and peace come from hands on, face to face delivering of blessing from God. Make it simple. Be honest. ‘Lord, I’m not so good at praying out loud, but I love______, and I’m asking you to bless her with Your comfort and peace.’ The enemy hates when we do this and would much rather we go away and then forget that we promised to pray. Obedience is stretching, but we need that.”
I’ve realized over the years that I want to make a difference in someone else’s life, but that shouldn’t be my focus. If I am intent on making someone feel better, I’m more focused on myself than them. It is better for me to remember that while God can use me in the life of a friend, He is the only one that can bring healing.
I recently came across a new translation of the Bible called “The Voice” and love how 2 Corinthians 1:3-4 reads. “All praise goes to God, Father of our Lord Jesus, the Anointed One. He is the Father of compassion, the God of all comfort. He consoles us as we endure the pain and hardship of life so that we may draw from His comfort and share it with others in their own struggles.”
As I finish today, I’d like to pray a prayer from Ephesians. “Father, out of Your honorable and glorious riches, strengthen Your people. Fill their souls with the power of Your Spirit so that through faith the Anointed One will reside in their hearts. May love be the rich soil where their lives take root. May it be the bedrock where their lives are founded so that together with all of Your people they will have the power to understand that the love of the Anointed is infinitely long, wide, high, and deep, surpassing everything anyone previously experienced. God, may Your fullness flood through their entire beings. Now to the God who can do so many awe-inspiring things, immeasurable things, things greater than we ever could ask or imagine through the power at work in us, to Him be all glory in the church and in Jesus the Anointed from this generation to the next, forever and ever. Amen.”
I love being able to celebrate good things happening in a friend’s life. But how can I begin to help a friend who is going through something difficult?
Sometimes it feels easiest to pretend that nothing has happened, to say nothing, do nothing. I can justify it by telling myself that I don’t know what to say and it is probably better to just stay out of it. Has that worked for you? For decades I regretted not saying anything to a classmate whose father had died suddenly. I came to realize that my lack of knowing what to say was much less important than his pain.
A big first step is to listen to what your friend feels comfortable with sharing. Look for a time when the two of you can talk without others around. Instead of asking how she is, try asking how she feels about something. Each of us reacts to things differently. What can be small to one may be a deep grief to another. The important thing is to listen to her, to acknowledge her pain, and to listen without giving answers.
Respect how much she feels like sharing and don’t push for more than she wants to give. Focus on her. Remember that what she shares is private. Ask before sharing with another person. The only exception to this would be if you felt your friend was in danger of hurting herself or another. If you are feeling overwhelmed, it may be appropriate to suggest she get help from a professional. There should be no shame in asking for help.
A hug might be the best thing you could give.
Be sensitive to her. If you have something to share that may be painful for her to hear, let her know the news privately before sharing it in front of a group or sending the news electronically. If you can think of some practical service to offer your friend, and are able to give it, offer. Could she use a meal? Would an hour or two of childcare help? Pick something up at a store? Ask her what would be helpful. Sometimes a short note of encouragement can be wonderful. Take the time to write out a special verse that has encouraged you.
I asked the other mentor moms for any suggestions they might have, and Mary mentioned women like to get stuff and bringing a small gift of something that is your favorite is a practical thing. A gift card, even in a small amount says you took the time and made the effort.
Letting others know you will be praying for them is good, but Mary also had a wonderful suggestion. “Instead of saying ‘I’ll pray for you’, say ‘May I pray for you right now?’ And then do it. This can be scary, especially for people who are not comfortable praying out loud in front of others. But this is the time to get over that and realize what comfort and peace come from hands on, face to face delivering of blessing from God. Make it simple. Be honest. ‘Lord, I’m not so good at praying out loud, but I love______, and I’m asking you to bless her with Your comfort and peace.’ The enemy hates when we do this and would much rather we go away and then forget that we promised to pray. Obedience is stretching, but we need that.”
I’ve realized over the years that I want to make a difference in someone else’s life, but that shouldn’t be my focus. If I am intent on making someone feel better, I’m more focused on myself than them. It is better for me to remember that while God can use me in the life of a friend, He is the only one that can bring healing.
I recently came across a new translation of the Bible called “The Voice” and love how 2 Corinthians 1:3-4 reads. “All praise goes to God, Father of our Lord Jesus, the Anointed One. He is the Father of compassion, the God of all comfort. He consoles us as we endure the pain and hardship of life so that we may draw from His comfort and share it with others in their own struggles.”
As I finish today, I’d like to pray a prayer from Ephesians. “Father, out of Your honorable and glorious riches, strengthen Your people. Fill their souls with the power of Your Spirit so that through faith the Anointed One will reside in their hearts. May love be the rich soil where their lives take root. May it be the bedrock where their lives are founded so that together with all of Your people they will have the power to understand that the love of the Anointed is infinitely long, wide, high, and deep, surpassing everything anyone previously experienced. God, may Your fullness flood through their entire beings. Now to the God who can do so many awe-inspiring things, immeasurable things, things greater than we ever could ask or imagine through the power at work in us, to Him be all glory in the church and in Jesus the Anointed from this generation to the next, forever and ever. Amen.”
Friday, March 1, 2013
Spinach Salad with Avocado-Ranch Dressing
Here is the recipe everyone has been raving about from our meeting this morning!! Thank you Amber for making this yummy salad!! She found the recipe from eatingwell.com and said her trick with the dressing was instead of blending the dressing in a blender, she used an emulsifier to make the dressing a little thicker/creamier.
INGREDIENTS
1 ripe avocado, halved and pitted, divided
1/2 cup buttermilk
2 tablespoons chopped fresh dill or 2 teaspoons dried
1 tablespoon white vinegar
1/2 teaspoon garlic powder
1/4 teaspoon salt
1/4 teaspoon freshly ground pepper
1 5- to 6-ounce package baby spinach (about 8 cups)
1 medium red bell pepper, sliced
1 15-ounce can chickpeas, rinsed
PREPERATION
Scoop 1 avocado half into a blender; add buttermilk, dill, vinegar, garlic powder, salt and pepper. Puree until smooth.Cut the remaining avocado half into 1/2-inch chunks. Combine spinach, bell pepper and chickpeas in a large bowl. Add the dressing; toss to coat. Divide among 4salad plates and top with the chopped avocado.
Monday, January 21, 2013
Yummy Desserts
We had a few yummy desserts on Friday and thought they were a must for your recipe box! Enjoy!!
1 c. butterscotch chips
1/2 c. unsalted butter
1-1/2 c. all-purpose flour
Preparation
Raspberry Cappicino Mousse
Ingredients
2-1/2 cups cold milk
1/3 cup Hazelnut flavored instant coffee granules
2 packages (3.4 ounces each) instant vanilla pudding mix
1 carton (16 ounces) frozen whipped topping, thawed, divided
2 loaves (10-3/4 ounces each) frozen pound cake, thawed and cubed
1 ounce semisweet chocolate, grated
2 packs of fresh Raspberries
Directions
In a large bowl, stir milk and coffee granules until dissolved; remove 1/2cup and set aside. Add pudding mixes to the remaining milk mixture; beat on low speed for 2 minutes (mixture will be thick). Fold in half of the whipped topping. Place a third of the cake cubes in a 4-qt. serving or trifle bowl. Layer with a third of the reserved milk mixture, pudding mixture and raspberries, and cover with grated chocolate. Repeat layers twice. Garnish with remaining whipped topping and chocolate. Cover and refrigerate until serving.
Butterscotch Bars with Chocolate and Disappearing Marshmallows
Ingredients
1/2 c. unsalted butter
1-1/2 c. all-purpose flour
2/3 c. packed brown sugar
2 tsp. baking powder
1/2 tsp. salt
1 tsp. pure vanilla extract
2 large eggs
2-1/2 c. mini marshmallows
2 c. semi sweet chocolate chips
Preparation
Preheat oven to 350°. Spray the bottom and sides of a 9'' x 13'' pan with cooking spray and set aside.
In a large sauce pan over medium low heat, melt the butterscotch chips and butter, stirring constantly. Remove from heat to cool.
In a medium bowl, whisk together the flour, brown sugar, baking powder, and salt.
Add vanilla and eggs to the butterscotch mixture and stir well. Then add the flour mixture and stir to combine. Fold in the marshmallows and chocolate chips, just until combined. Spread into prepared pan and bake for 20 to 25 minutes, taking care to not over bake. (I think they're best when just slightly under-baked!) The edges should be browned nicely, and the center not quite set. The bars will firm upon cooling.
Raspberry Cappicino Mousse
Ingredients
2-1/2 cups cold milk
1/3 cup Hazelnut flavored instant coffee granules
2 packages (3.4 ounces each) instant vanilla pudding mix
1 carton (16 ounces) frozen whipped topping, thawed, divided
2 loaves (10-3/4 ounces each) frozen pound cake, thawed and cubed
1 ounce semisweet chocolate, grated
2 packs of fresh Raspberries
Directions
In a large bowl, stir milk and coffee granules until dissolved; remove 1/2cup and set aside. Add pudding mixes to the remaining milk mixture; beat on low speed for 2 minutes (mixture will be thick). Fold in half of the whipped topping. Place a third of the cake cubes in a 4-qt. serving or trifle bowl. Layer with a third of the reserved milk mixture, pudding mixture and raspberries, and cover with grated chocolate. Repeat layers twice. Garnish with remaining whipped topping and chocolate. Cover and refrigerate until serving.
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