tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-22749160566128834142024-03-27T02:11:29.722-07:00The Creative Church Idea AtticUnknownnoreply@blogger.comBlogger40125tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2274916056612883414.post-85546793790865381422012-03-08T20:12:00.002-08:002012-03-08T20:12:20.369-08:00Easter BrunchSeveral years ago (in a small church we pastored) we mixed up the "traditional" Easter basket up (so to speak). We held an early Easter morning service (not quite sunrise, but almost) and then hosted an Easter Brunch. We wound up doing it several years. It was a nice change of pace and fit the needs of our church members. It was a chance for those who didn't live near their families to spend the time with friends and church family. It gave church members an opportunity to invite those who normally wouldn't come to a Sunday morning service (even on Easter). This is also a great idea for a small group or Sunday School class. <br />
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I am posting some of my favorite ideas. Some I've used. Some I'm intending to use. Someday :<)<br />
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<strong>Food</strong><br />
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You can't have an Easter Brunch without the food. I suggest you use the KISS method (Keep It Simple Sweetie). On the other hand, you do want to make it special. I have to say that most years I prepared all the food with a few helpers. I admit it. I do enjoy it. But if I were to be honest I loved the year the Men's Ministry prepared Brunch. I just decorated the tables. Consider "outsourcing" if you need to. Gather those around who love to do this sort of thing and assign certain dishes. <br />
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You can't beat a good <a href="http://bakingbites.com/2009/05/cheesy-egg-casserole/">Egg Casserole.</a> My suggestion would be to make it several smaller pans. Eggs behave better in smaller servings. You don't want crispy edges and runny center. <br />
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You can always go the Cracker Barrel route. This Amish recipe for a <a href="http://allrecipes.com/recipe/amish-breakfast-casserole/detail.aspx" target="_blank">Breakfast Casserole</a> has all those country flavors in one dish. Or just dig out your favorite Hashbrown Casserole and purchase a couple of large hams. <br />
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Maybe you want something sweet. While I enjoy a good pancake breakfast as the next gal, pancakes always aren't as practical if you are trying to serve the multitude (all by yourself). Here is a recipe for a <a href="http://recipesforacrowd.com/oven-baked-french-toast" target="_blank">French Toast Casserole</a> that will serve many and many more. <br />
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If your folks are traditionalists and nothing will do but a good ole fashioned breakfast, here are some tips about making perfect <a href="http://www.gastronommy.com/2010/02/mastering-scrambled-eggs-whether-for.html" target="_blank">scrambled eggs.</a> Set your ladies to making biscuits and gravy and there you go! Here is a good recipe for <a href="http://thepioneerwoman.com/cooking/2007/09/biscuits_and_gr/" target="_blank">Biscuits and Gravy</a> from thepioneerwoman.com. If you can help it don't use gravy from a can. <br />
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And then there are all the extras that a good brunch buffet needs. Muffins, sweet breads, bagels and cream cheese. And don't forget the fresh fruit platter. Here is a good site on <a href="http://www.ellenskitchen.com/bigpots/plan/fruit100.html" target="_blank">preparing fruit trays and fruit salads for a crowd.</a><br />
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If you are like me and appreciate a visual here is a Youtube video I found on preparing a fruit platter. <br />
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And another one.<br />
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After you have your menu planned be sure your church kitchen is stocked with butter, jellies and jams, coffee and tea makings. If you want it to be extra special make a call for some homemade jellies and jams. Folks will be thrilled to pull out their homemade apple butter and strawberry preserves to add to the feast. <br />
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<strong>Table Decor</strong><br />
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I encourage you to look around first and see what you have. I love the idea of putting "hostesses" in charge of a table. They are responsible for decorating their own tables. It is amazing what kind of creativity will burst out of your ladies. But, if you want a cohesive look to your brunch (or you are worried about all that creativity) here are a few general ideas.<br />
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While I have no problem with bunnies and eggs I do my best not to make those things the focus of Easter. I do, however, like this idea of making <a href="http://inspireco.blogspot.com/2010/03/easter-eggs.html" target="_blank">decorative Easter Eggs</a>. I think they would be darling made with photocopied bits of hymns (Amazing Grace, Old Rugged Cross) and tucked into bird nests (which is one of my ideas below).<br />
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<u>The Birds of The Air</u> (this is what I plan on doing in our fellowship hall next week)<br />
Begin by digging up every birdhouse or birdcage you can find. Purchase Bird nests (Hobby Lobby) or <a href="http://www.mommyblessings.com/2010/07/making-magical-birds-nests-with-kids.html" target="_blank">make your own. </a>(how cool is that). You can use ceramic birds (I have some little white ceramic ones I found at Gordman's very inexpensively) and decorative feathers as fillers. I think blue tablecloths would be lovely. I also like the idea of using branches and foliage from the great outdoors. We'll see how that turns out. I don't want a fire hazard. Speaking of fire hazard, I plan on using dozens of little clear votives. <br />
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<u>Behold! The Lamb of God</u><br />
This might be a little more difficult. But put a call out for any sheep or lamb figurines or stuffed animals. <a href="http://familyfun.go.com/crafts/easter-eggs-sheep-egg-661501/" target="_blank">Here is a little craft</a> that would be cute for one of your children's groups to make just for the occasion. You can accent with spring flowers. <a href="http://orientaltrading.com/" target="_blank">Oriental Trading</a> has some pretty cute lambs. Just type <em>lamb</em> in the search box. <br />
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<u>Rejoice!</u><br />
This is all about the party. And fun. <a href="http://www.tipjunkie.com/make-pinwheels/" target="_blank">Make your own pinwheels.</a> You can certainly purchase them, but making your own will allow you to use some pretty cute color combinations. Put your pinwheels in flower pots (stuffed with foam and Easter grass). Use brightly colored table cloths and hang paper lanterns above. Make table runners with butcher paper and let your children's church group write messages of Good News! (He Lives! He's Alive!, etc.)<br />
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<u>Fields of Flowers</u><br />
Invite everyone to bring a vase of flowers from their own gardens. Depending on your location and what's blooming this one could be interesting :<) Right now our Dogwoods are blooming. How pretty would it be to have pitchers of dogwood blossoms set on an Easter table!<br />
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Don't forget about the kids! Take a cue from the restaurants and provide some activity pages for the kids (along with crayons). This site has some nice <a href="http://www.biblestoryprintables.com/BiblePrintablesEaster.html" target="_blank">printable Easter activities.</a><br />
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Hopefully, some of my ideas have sparked some more ideas :<)Unknownnoreply@blogger.com2tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2274916056612883414.post-15346644982499382492011-12-14T13:49:00.000-08:002011-12-14T13:49:04.104-08:00Snowy Mason Jars with Epsom SaltI just found the cutest idea. A few years ago I posted <a href="http://creativechurchideaattic.blogspot.com/2007/11/i-have-done-variety-of-decorating.html">A Snowy Evening</a>. It just gives ideas about decorating your sanctuary and fellowship hall based on Robert Frost's poem "Walking Through the Woods on A Snowy Evening." <br />
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Anyhoo. Today I came across <a href="http://theinspiredroom.net/2009/11/30/easy-diy-christmas-decorating-idea-glittery-epsom-salt-snow/">this</a> idea of using Epsom salt in Mason jars to create snowy candle holder. How cute is that! And how easy! We are having our church Christmas party Sunday evening and I have been fretting over my lack of creative energy. Yay! I have a bag of epsom salts and a box full of empty mason jars. <br />
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Just thought I'd share :<)Unknownnoreply@blogger.com2tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2274916056612883414.post-78222721246375255762011-12-01T18:56:00.001-08:002011-12-01T19:00:28.324-08:00Christmas Outreach Party Coming Up!So I'm planning an outreach party for kids to take place in a few weeks at church. I want to show the newest Veggie Tales Christmas movie on the big screen, crank up our commerical popcorn machine and inflate the bounce house. I also am going to incorporate some of the ideas I posted in my <a href="http://creativechurchideaattic.blogspot.com/2007/11/candy-cane-craze.html">Candy Cane Craze </a>blog, with a few additons with some cute stuff I found on Pinterest. Is anybody else having a Christmas Party for the kids at your church? And what good ideas can you give me. We want to use this as an outreach event as well.Unknownnoreply@blogger.com2tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2274916056612883414.post-71414090374696283432011-11-27T19:48:00.001-08:002011-11-28T18:40:45.224-08:00Christmas Video Storybook TutorialThis post is specifically for Jen :<) She wrote the nicest comment seeking additional instructions concerning my <a href="http://creativechurchideaattic.blogspot.com/2007/11/christmas-program.html">Christmas Video Storybook Idea</a> (scroll down a bit) and I lost the comment somehow! Bad Blogger! I am still learning to navigate my updated Blogger dashboard. It's much easier to use, but I need a redo button...or an undo button. Or maybe a "please clean up my blogging mess" button. <br />
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Anyhoo. Jen asked for a link to one of the Video Storybooks. Unfortunately, I can't find a copy to upload. I will do my best to search some more (I have peoples who might have a copy). I'm sure that I have one (or three) in storage. But until I can track one down and I will at least lay it all out the best I can. <br />
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<strong>1. Decide what video program you want to use</strong>. Or better yet, find a person proficient in some sort of video making program and utilize them. I know Windows Movie Maker is easy to use, but there is nothing easier than good ole Power Point. If you have Photo Shop skills you will be able to do all kinds of wonderful things with your storybook. I have some more thoughts on this further down.<br />
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<strong>2. Pick out a story, book or poem to use</strong>. Be sure that it is not too long or too short. Take into account the number of children you have. You can fill in with teens or adults or even have some children play more than one part if you can. I am going to pretend I am turning the following short story (under #4) into a Video StoryBook. It isn't anything I would use for real, but I can use it to explain my methods (hopefully). <br />
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<strong>3. Go through your story and make a list of characters needed.</strong> This story only has a few. Papa, Mamma, Fred & Jessie. If I had more children than that I could use a few of them as Frost Fairies (in the first paragraph) stars & moon (second paragraph), and the Mouse. In fact, those parts would be good for little kids. Then make a list of the children you have available. If you have more characters than parts, recruit teens, adults or double cast. Assign parts. You won't have to worry about any singing or acting skills...they just need to be willing to get a picture taken.<br />
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<strong>4. Now is the time to sit down with your book and break it up into scenes.</strong><br />
Remember that each scene will be an individual picture. <br />
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<strong>What Happened Christmas Eve </strong><br />
by Oliver Herfold<br />
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(Scene 1) It was Christmas Eve and the frost fairies were busy getting ready for Christmas Day. First of all they spread the loveliest white snow carpet over the rough, bare ground; then they hung the bushes and trees with icicles that flashed like diamonds in the moonlight. Later on, they planned to draw beautiful frost pictures on the window panes, to surprise the little children in the morning. <em><span style="color: #cc0000;">Picture of little girls dressed as fairies hanging icicles on a Christmas Tree. </span></em></div>
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(Scene 2) The stars shone brightly and the moon sent floods of light in every nook and corner. How could any one think of sleeping when there was such a glory outside! <em><span style="color: #cc0000;">Picture of stars and moon.</span></em></div>
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(Scene 3) Jessie and Fred had gone to bed very early so they might be the first to shout "Merry Christmas!" but their eyes would not stay shut."Oh dear! It must be 'most morning," said Fred; "let us creep softly down stairs and maybe we'll catch Santa Claus before he rides off." <em><span style="color: #cc0000;">Picture of Fred and Jessie lying in bed with covers up to their chins looking very excited - If the bed is not doable take a close up on them lying down in sleeping bags. </span></em></div>
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(Scene 4) Hand in hand they tiptoed to the dining-room and peeped out the big window - surely, surely, that was something climbing up the roof of cousin Nellie's house; it must be old Santa. Fred gave a chuckle of delight; to be sure the reindeer were very queer looking objects, and the sleigh such a funny shape, but the children were satisfied. <em><span style="color: #cc0000;">Two Choices: They can be tiptoeing down a flight of stairs or peering out of a window. </span></em></div>
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(Scene 5) The old fir tree, whose high branches almost touched the roof, knew all about those shadows, but it was so old no one could ever understand a word of the many tales it told. <em><span style="color: #cc0000;">Picture of an old tree. </span></em></div>
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(Scene 6) "There's something scratching on the door," whispered Jessie; but it was only a mouse, who had sniffed the delightful odors of the Christmas goodies and was trying his best to find a way into the pantry and test them with his sharp teeth.<em><span style="color: #cc0000;"> Picture of a little mouse.</span></em></div>
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(Scene 7) "Come," said Jessie, "we'll turn to icicles if we stay here much, longer"; so up-stairs they quickly scampered. <em><span style="color: #cc0000;">Picture of the boys scampering back up the stairs. </span></em></div>
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(Scene 8) Papa had been to town on an errand, so it was quite late when he came home. As he was hunting in his pockets for his key, he heard a pitiful cry, and looking down he saw a big, white cat carrying a tiny kitten in her mouth. <span class="printables">"Poor thing," said papa, "you shall come inside till morning." <em><span style="color: #cc0000;">Papa (wearing an overcoat) holding a cat and kitten (this will be trickier, but it can be done!)</span></em></span></div>
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(Scene 9) Santa Claus had been there with the nicest wagon for Fred and a warm, seal-skin cap that lay right in the middle of it. When papa left the room, puss and her kitty were curled up comfortably on the rug singing their sleepy song. <em><span style="color: #cc0000;">Picture of kitty curled up on the rug with a red wagon behind it.</span></em></div>
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<img align="right" height="212" hspace="5" src="http://www.apples4theteacher.com/images/christmas-literature/what-happened-christmas-eve.jpg" vspace="5" width="300" />(Scene 10)The sun was shining brightly in the dining-room window when Jessie and Fred made their appearance; then Fred just laughed with delight, for right in the crown of his new cap lay the cutest white kitten, with big, blue eyes and wee pink nose, while standing close by as if to guard her darling from danger, was good old mother puss. </div>
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"I never had a live Christmas present before," said Fred, "now I know Santa Claus read the letter I threw up the chimney because I told him to bring me a kitten and here it is." <em><span style="color: #cc0000;">Picture of Fred and Jessie sitting in front of the Christmas Tree.</span></em></div>
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(Scene 11)Papa smiled and looked at mamma, and then everybody said "Merry Christmas" at once.<br />
<em><span style="color: #cc0000;">Picture of the whole family smiling in front of the Christmas Tree.</span></em><br />
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<span style="color: black;">Cover and Ending: Don't forget to take a picture of whatever you want at the beginning and the ending of your Storybook. We also used a few pictures for credits (actors, photographer, director, helpers, etc.) and a bloopers section. Everyone always got a big kick out of that. </span><br />
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<span style="color: black;">5. Now that I have my scenes selected I am going to go back and decide on<strong> Props and Costume</strong> materials for each scene. Make a list of what you need and circulate it. You would be surprised what you will be able to come up with using your church family as a resource. Just a little side note: If you are using a story with animals use solid colored sweats and decorate the face with face paint if you don't have the costumes you need.</span><br />
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<strong>6. Set up a photo session</strong>. You will need a good camera or someone who has a good camera and won't mind taking pictures for you. I've been blessed to always have a good photographer in our congregations. What you need to do now is just stage every scene. Make adequate notes while everything is happening. And have a good helper (or three). Just start at Scene 1 and go from there. A word to the wise: You might set up a movie or some other activity in a corner. This process takes longer than a minute and kids get restless.<br />
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<strong>7. Make your movie.</strong> I'm sorry I don't know as much about the technical side of this. I always have someone help me with this...make friends with a Techy. I know I said this before, but having some Photo Shop skills is a blessing. There is also a free photo shop program online called <a href="http://www.gimp.org/">Gimp</a>. You can take things away, add backgrounds, add picture effects. Just be sure to have your scenes the way you want them before inserting them into your slide or movie. Also, pick out some background music and a narrator. I have read the story and had the sound guy play a CD in the background or (my favorite) we pulled out the big guns and recorded someone reading the story. You are able to add music and sound to the Windows Movie Maker. <br />
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8. Make several copies. This might sound a little odd coming from me. After all, I can't seem to find any of my extra copies of the Video Storybooks we have done. But when it counted I knew I had a few on hand. The worst feeling in the world is to have worked so hard on something and then to lose it or have something happen to your computer. One or two years we made extra copies to give to the kids who "stared" in our production. <br />
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I hope this helps. Again, don't hesitate to ask any questions. I will try and help the best I can!</div>Unknownnoreply@blogger.com3tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2274916056612883414.post-47970842202001224012011-11-22T18:03:00.001-08:002011-11-22T18:19:11.298-08:00Leftover MadnessI know it's a bit late to be posting any kind of Thanksgiving ideas, but I wanted to share our church's plans for this year. We are going to be having our church Thanksgiving Dinner the Sunday after Thanksgiving. We are calling it "Leftover Madness." Since my family is traveling out of town on Thanksgiving I already have my pile of decorations ready to take to the church for table decorating. This is also a perfect time to start gathering your decorating supplies for next year. Our local Hobby Lobby had all of their fall decorations 90% this week. I got a ceramic Pilgrim Lady (originally 17.99) for $1.98 (tax included). I saw lots of people with carts full of fall flowers. You can find more Thanksgiving ideas <a href="http://creativechurchideaattic.blogspot.com/2007/10/celebration-of-thanks.html">here</a> at my <a href="http://creativechurchideaattic.blogspot.com/2007/10/celebration-of-thanks.html">Celebration of Thanks</a> post.Unknownnoreply@blogger.com2tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2274916056612883414.post-78263126681145445652011-11-08T05:01:00.000-08:002011-11-08T05:01:11.388-08:00Thanksgiving Bible Lessons Links for Kids & YouthI have been searching around the web for ideas for a special Thanksgiving Event for church for my little group of kids. Here are some of my favorite links for object lessons or devotions. I thought while I was digging I would pass my them along to you! I also have a few games that I will post later when I get them better organized. Don't forget to look at the <a href="http://creativechurchideaattic.blogspot.com/2007/10/thanksgiving-blessing-mix.html">Thanksgiving Blessing Mix </a>idea I have on my blog. <br />
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<a href="http://ministry-to-children.com/thanksgiving-ideas/">http://ministry-to-children.com/thanksgiving-ideas/</a><br />
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<a href="http://www.hem-of-his-garment-bible-study.org/support-files/kids-thanksgiving-bible-study.pdf">http://www.hem-of-his-garment-bible-study.org/support-files/kids-thanksgiving-bible-study.pdf</a><br />
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<a href="http://www.childrensministry.org/articles/andbethankful.htm">http://www.childrensministry.org/articles/andbethankful.htm</a><br />
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<a href="http://www.sundayschoolnetwork.com/lessons-fall-talks.html">http://www.sundayschoolnetwork.com/lessons-fall-talks.html</a><br />
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<a href="http://www.childrensministry.com/articles/5-kernel">http://www.childrensministry.com/articles/5-kernel</a><br />
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<a href="http://www.childrensministry.com/articles/food-harvest">http://www.childrensministry.com/articles/food-harvest</a><br />
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<br />Unknownnoreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2274916056612883414.post-8017476886152190262011-10-26T05:32:00.000-07:002011-10-27T15:11:00.702-07:00A Pumpkin Praise Party!<div style="font-family: inherit;">
I love Pumpkins! And what better time of year to add a bit of Pumpkin Fun to your Children's Program. Many of these activities can be used for multiple ages and activities.</div>
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First of all, let me give just a quick "shout out" to Pinterest. I am a bit addicted. It is a perfect spot for an idea girl like myself. I even have a "Pumpkin Board." </div>
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For those of you who are new to computer and blog navigation, just click on the blue links. They will take you to some pretty cool ideas. </div>
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<span style="font-size: large;"><b><span style="color: orange;">The Message</span></b></span></div>
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First, let's start with the basics. You always need to include a Gospel message in any activity you provide. I have a copy of <a href="http://www.amazon.com/gp/product/1400308461/ref=pd_lpo_k2_dp_sr_1?pf_rd_p=486539851&pf_rd_s=lpo-top-stripe-1&pf_rd_t=201&pf_rd_i=0785277226&pf_rd_m=ATVPDKIKX0DER&pf_rd_r=185SEFNSW85GAGNTXHJP">The Pumpkin Patch Parable.</a></div>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjkCcXMxvSTYo-ruPcrQFiQrKQ4lFw7qJkq9QCns-oLd1_kkDMJh_IvE97qIyQ5_CNiJF6Iy75kk23bw_w-gQQw7bcvvlTbHsipoHl8_jxViyIIfMiVjDyM7hbacpGcyFM8h3rYMpEnM10/s1600/pump75.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="400" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjkCcXMxvSTYo-ruPcrQFiQrKQ4lFw7qJkq9QCns-oLd1_kkDMJh_IvE97qIyQ5_CNiJF6Iy75kk23bw_w-gQQw7bcvvlTbHsipoHl8_jxViyIIfMiVjDyM7hbacpGcyFM8h3rYMpEnM10/s400/pump75.jpg" width="395" /></a></div>
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<b><b>Here is the book's description. </b></b></div>
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This charming story for children illustrates how a loving farmer can
turn a simple pumpkin into a simply glorious sight. Liz Curtis Higgs
weaves a beautiful parable as the farmer picks out a special pumpkin
from his garden, and scoops out all the messy "goo" to make room for his
light to shine from inside. In the same way, God's transforming love
can fill each of our hearts with joy and light. Liz Cutis Higgs
originally created this parable as a way to share the Good News with her
own precious children each harvest season. After 10 years, she has
touched children everywhere! Recommended for ages 3 to 7.</div>
<div style="font-family: inherit;">
<b><b><br /></b></b></div>
<div style="font-family: inherit;">
This poem is a great object lesson to use while carving a pumpkin. </div>
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<br /></div>
<div style="font-family: inherit;">
</div>
<div style="font-family: inherit;">
<b><span style="color: black;">"Pumpkin
Prayer"</span></b><span style="color: black;"><br />
<br />
{cut off top of pumpkin} <br />
Lord, open my mind so I can learn new things about you. <br />
<br />
{remove innards} <br />
Remove the things in my life that don’t please you. <br />
Forgive the wrong things I do and help me to forgive others.<br />
<br />
{cut open eyes} <br />
Open my eyes to see the beauty you’ve made in the world around me. <br />
<br />
{cut out nose} <br />
I’m sorry for the times I’ve turned my nose at the good food you provide.<br />
<br />
{cut out mouth} <br />
Let everything I say please You.<br />
<br />
{light the candle} <br />
Lord, help me show your light to others through the things I do. Amen</span></div>
<div style="font-family: inherit;">
</div>
<div style="font-family: inherit;">
<span style="color: black;">By: Liz Curtis
Higgs</span></div>
<div style="font-family: inherit;">
<span style="color: black;"> </span> </div>
<div style="font-family: inherit;">
<span style="color: black;">Annie's Homepage has this pumpkin lesson <a href="http://www.annieshomepage.com/halloweenlesson.html">here</a>.</span></div>
<div style="font-family: inherit;">
<span style="color: black;"> </span></div>
<div style="font-family: inherit;">
<span style="color: black;">Carve a pumpkin or two using a Christian Theme. <a href="http://www.squidoo.com/christian-pumpkin-carving-patterns">This site </a>has all sorts of free resources. </span></div>
<div style="font-family: inherit;">
<br /></div>
<div style="color: orange; font-family: inherit;">
<span style="font-size: large;"><b>Decorations</b></span></div>
<div style="font-family: inherit;">
<span style="color: black;"> </span></div>
<div style="font-family: inherit;">
<br />
<span style="color: black;">Think Orange! Use orange table cloths, balloons, streamers, etc. Put pumpkins everywhere. </span></div>
<div style="font-family: inherit;">
<br /></div>
<div style="font-family: inherit;">
<span style="color: black;"><a href="http://www.iheartnaptime.net/2011/09/fall-decorating-ideas/?utm_source=feedburner&utm_medium=feed&utm_campaign=Feed%253A+Iheartnaptime1+%2528I+heart+naptime+with+Chocolate+Sundaes%2529&utm_content=Google+Reader">Here</a> are some cute DIY ideas for Fall decorating. You could even use candy pumpkins instead of the candy corn in the large votives shown. </span></div>
<div style="font-family: inherit;">
<span style="color: black;"><br /></span></div>
<div style="font-family: inherit;">
<span style="color: black;">Use white and orange twinkle lights to add extra fun to your space.</span><br />
<br />
<span style="color: black;">I love a mason jar. Here is an idea for a <a href="http://craftathome.com/Instructional/canningpumpkinlight.html">Canning Jar Pumpkin Light</a>. </span></div>
<div style="font-family: inherit;">
<span style="color: black;"><br /></span></div>
<div style="color: orange; font-family: inherit;">
<span style="font-size: large;"><b>Crafty Fun</b></span></div>
<div style="font-family: inherit;">
<span style="color: black;"><br /></span></div>
<div style="font-family: inherit;">
<span style="color: black;">Make this <a href="http://www.sundayschoolkids.com/activities-thanksgiving/standup-pumpkin-instru.htm">stand up pumpkin</a> from Sundayschoolkids.com.</span></div>
<div style="font-family: inherit;">
<br /></div>
<div style="font-family: inherit;">
</div>
<div style="font-family: inherit;">
<span style="color: black;"><a href="http://www.dltk-bible.com/pumpkincarving.htm">Here</a> is a another pumpkin carving prayer with a printout from dltk-bible.com.</span></div>
<div style="font-family: inherit;">
</div>
<div style="font-family: inherit;">
<br /></div>
<div style="font-family: inherit;">
</div>
<div style="font-family: inherit;">
<span style="color: black;">This little <a href="http://daniellesplace.com/html/halloween.html">pumpkin book</a> from daniellesplace.com is really cute. </span></div>
<div style="font-family: inherit;">
</div>
<div style="font-family: inherit;">
<br /></div>
<div style="font-family: inherit;">
<span style="font-size: small;">Set up a Pumpkin Decorating Center. Put small pumpkins and
markers in a center and allow kids to decorate their own mini pumpkins.</span> </div>
<div style="font-family: inherit;">
</div>
<div style="font-family: inherit;">
<br />
The craftyclassroom.com has<a href="http://www.thecraftyclassroom.com/CraftGardenPumpkin.html"> this cute garden pumpkin</a> to make. </div>
<div style="font-family: inherit;">
<br /></div>
<div style="font-family: inherit;">
I found 3 great pumpkin crafts at christianpreschoolprintables.com Here is a <a href="http://www.christianpreschoolprintables.com/Pages/Thanksgiving/PaperBagPumpkinCraft.html">paperbag pumpkin</a>. Or use this <a href="http://www.christianpreschoolprintables.com/Pages/Thanksgiving/PumpkinParableCraft.html">pumpkin parable craf</a>t to go along with your lesson. This Pumpkin Prayer <a href="http://www.christianpreschoolprintables.com/Pages/BibleMinibooks/BibleMinibookPumpkinPrayer.html">minibook</a> is perfect to make and take. </div>
<div style="font-family: inherit;">
<br /></div>
<div style="font-family: inherit;">
Famiyfun.com has this <a href="http://familyfun.go.com/crafts/pumpkin-hat-667899/">pumpkin hat</a> to make. </div>
<div style="font-family: inherit;">
<br /></div>
<div style="color: orange; font-family: inherit;">
<b><span style="font-size: large;">Games, Centers & More</span></b></div>
<div style="font-family: inherit;">
<br /></div>
<div style="font-family: inherit;">
I found this <a href="http://halloween.tipjunkie.com/pop-goes-the-pumpkin-halloween-games/">Pop Goes The Pumpkin Game</a> at tipjunkie.com. I'm going to be using this one for sure this year. </div>
<div style="font-family: inherit;">
</div>
<div style="font-family: inherit;">
<br /></div>
<div style="font-family: inherit;">
<b>Ring the Pumpkin</b></div>
<div style="font-family: inherit;">
</div>
<div style="font-family: inherit;">
Line up three large pumpkins to form a ring toss. Make sure they have stems!
Use embroidery hoops. Mark a throwing line on the floor and take turns trying
to ring a pumpkin stem. Smaller children can attempt to ring an entire large
pumpkin with a hula hoop.</div>
<div style="font-family: inherit;">
</div>
<div style="font-family: inherit;">
<br /></div>
<div style="font-family: inherit;">
<b>Pumpkin Race</b></div>
<div style="font-family: inherit;">
</div>
<div style="font-family: inherit;">
You need two large pumpkins and two sticks. The racers, line up on the
starting line with the pumpkins turned on their sides. The racers use the stick
to roll the pumpkins to the finish line. Be sure to leave plenty of room. The
pumpkins will roll in every direction! For added variety have them use hands
instead of sticks or roll small pumpkins, instead. </div>
<div style="font-family: inherit;">
</div>
<div style="font-family: inherit;">
<br /></div>
<div style="font-family: inherit;">
<b>Pumpkin Bowling</b></div>
<div style="font-family: inherit;">
</div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="font-family: inherit; line-height: normal;">
<span style="font-size: 12pt;">Select several small pumpkins about
four to six inches in diameter. You need extras in case a few split or break. Place
plastic (children's set) of bowling pins several feet away. You could also use
small plastic decorator pumpkins. </span></div>
<div style="font-family: inherit;">
</div>
<div style="font-family: inherit;">
<b><br /></b></div>
<div style="font-family: inherit;">
<b>
</b></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="font-family: inherit;">
<b><span style="font-size: 12pt; line-height: 115%;">Pumpkin
Hot Potato</span></b></div>
<div style="font-family: inherit;">
</div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="font-family: inherit;">
<span style="font-size: 12pt; line-height: 115%;">Play hot
potato with a pumpkin instead of a potato!</span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="font-family: inherit;">
<br /></div>
<div style="font-family: inherit;">
</div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="font-family: inherit;">
<b>Guess the Pumpkins</b></div>
<div style="font-family: inherit;">
</div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="font-family: inherit;">
Fill a jar with those cute little candy pumpkins (usually
found near the candy corn). Have the kids guess how many pumpkins are in the
jar. Be sure to count the pumpkins ahead of time :<)</div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="font-family: inherit;">
<br /></div>
<div style="font-family: inherit;">
</div>
<div style="font-family: inherit;">
<b>Pumpkin Over and Under</b></div>
<div style="font-family: inherit;">
</div>
<div style="font-family: inherit;">
Divide the kids into two teams. Give the front child in the line a small
pumpkin. The first child passes the pumpkin over his head to the child behind
him. The second child passes it between his legs to the next child. The pumpkin
continues to be passed over-under to the last child in line, who runs to the
front of the line with the pumpkin. You can continue until every
child has run to the front of the line with the pumpkin and the first child is
back in front again. </div>
<div style="font-family: inherit;">
</div>
<div style="font-family: inherit;">
<br /></div>
<div style="font-family: inherit;">
<a href="http://www.myhomeideas.com/holidays/how-to/pumpkin-beanbag-toss-10000001843405/">Here</a> is a tutorial on how to make your own Pumpkin Bean Bag Toss. </div>
<div style="font-family: inherit;">
<br /></div>
<div style="font-family: inherit;">
Print out these<a href="http://www.learningtreasures.com/gingham_pumpkin_bingo.htm"> Pumpkin Bingo Card</a>s from learningtreasures.com. Bingo is always fun!</div>
<div style="font-family: inherit;">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="font-family: inherit; line-height: normal;">
<span style="font-size: small;">Make up a recipe or two for Pumpkin Pie playdough. Add pumpkin shaped cookie cutters to the other playdough toys. I have used this recipe for years, whether it be for teaching or at home. </span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="font-family: inherit; line-height: normal;">
<b><span style="font-size: 24pt;"><span style="font-size: small;"><br /></span></span></b></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="font-family: inherit; line-height: normal;">
<span style="font-size: small;"><b>Pumpkin Pie Playdough</b></span></div>
<div style="font-family: inherit;">
</div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="font-family: inherit;">
<span style="font-size: 12pt; line-height: 115%;">This
smells great, so remind small children that it is not for eating.<br />
<br />
5 1/2 cups </span><a href="http://www.recipegoldmine.com/childclay/pumpkin-pie-playdough.html"><span style="color: green; font-size: 12pt; line-height: 115%;">flour</span></a><span style="font-size: 12pt; line-height: 115%;"><br />
2 cups salt<br />
8 teaspoons cream of tartar<br />
3/4 cup vegetable oil<br />
1 (1 1/12 ounce) container pumpkin pie spice<br />
Orange food coloring (2 parts yellow, 1 part red)<br />
4 cups water<br />
<br />
Mix all of the ingredients together. Cook and stir over medium heat until all
lumps disappear. Knead the dough on a floured surface until it is smooth. Store
in an </span><a href="http://www.recipegoldmine.com/childclay/pumpkin-pie-playdough.html"><span style="color: green; font-size: 12pt; line-height: 115%;">airtight container</span></a><span style="font-size: 12pt; line-height: 115%;">.</span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="font-family: inherit;">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="font-family: inherit;">
<span style="font-size: 12pt; line-height: 115%;">Have a <b>pumpkin decorating contest</b>. Before the event, advertise the contest and send home tips, rules and prize information. Allow one pumpkin per family. </span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="font-family: inherit;">
<span style="font-size: 12pt; line-height: 115%;"> </span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="color: orange; font-family: inherit;">
<b><span style="font-size: large;"><span style="line-height: 115%;">Pumpkin Eats</span></span></b></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="color: orange; font-family: inherit;">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="color: orange; font-family: inherit;">
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="http://www.pillsbury.com/recipes/pumpkin-pizzas/8b0b5b34-d336-4b70-b6dd-c0b2097a258e"><img border="0" height="225" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhtVDMsIvuH5JIMmGHQs2SjaYKMkQu5LZunOpD2bYtpMFGj9Q099_odOiLQi1dumVYjAYaEJ4ty09958umBW-xp3SIbYdL2V_gy7D_J0rF1n95wSukMhDYNeCcbM6bMYmF4Gt7NxykEbBk/s400/0fb76da0-70c6-404d-9156-e1f5b5ef2392.jpg" width="400" /></a></div>
<br />
<b><span style="font-size: large;"><span style="line-height: 115%;"><span style="color: black;"><span style="font-size: small;">Pumpkin Pizza</span></span></span></span></b><br />
<span style="font-size: large;"><span style="line-height: 115%;"><span style="color: black;"><span style="font-size: small;"><a href="http://www.pillsbury.com/recipes/pumpkin-pizzas/8b0b5b34-d336-4b70-b6dd-c0b2097a258e">Here </a>is a recipe from Pillsbury.com for little Pumpkin Pizzas. You could easily make this into a large pizza for a crowd. </span></span></span></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="color: orange; font-family: inherit;">
<br />
<div style="color: black;">
Make a <a href="http://www.livinglocurto.com/2011/09/vegetable-trays/">Pumpkin Shaped Veggie tray</a>. You will just go crazy over these veggie tray designs from livinglocturto.com.</div>
</div>
<div style="font-family: inherit;">
<b>Individual Pumpkins</b><br />
<i>(10 servings)</i><br />
3 cups miniature marshmallows<br />
¼ cup margaring<br />
red and yellow food coloring<br />
Apple Cinnamon Cheerios<br />
Vegetable oil cooking spray (Pam)<br />
10 green gumdrops</div>
<div style="font-family: inherit;">
</div>
<div style="font-family: inherit;">
Warm the margarine and the marshmallows in a large pan over low heat until
the marshmallows melt. Use the food coloring to tint the mixture orange.
Gradually fold in the Apple Cinnamon Cheerios. Lightly coat each child’s
fingers with the cooking spray. When the mixture has cooled sufficiently,
give each child ½ cup of the mixture to form into a pumpkin shape. Press the
green gumdrop into the top for a stem. Set on waxed paper until firm.</div>
<div style="font-family: inherit;">
<br /></div>
<div style="font-family: inherit;">
Here is a recipe from teachingheart.com for <a href="http://teachingheart.net/blog/2011/10/easy-pumpkin-pie-in-a-cup/">Individual Pumpkin Pies</a> to make right at the event. </div>
<div style="font-family: inherit;">
<br /></div>
<div style="font-family: inherit;">
Make this <a href="http://quick-dish.tablespoon.com/2010/10/16/recipe-for-pumpkin-dip/">Pumpkin Dip. </a></div>
<div style="font-family: inherit;">
</div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="color: orange; font-family: inherit;">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="color: orange; font-family: inherit;">
<span style="font-size: large;"><span style="line-height: 115%;"><span style="color: black;"><span style="font-size: small;">Rice Krispy Treats are for every occasion! Make these cute <a href="http://3kidsandus.com/2011/easy-pumpkin-rice-krispies-treats-for-halloween/">Krispy pumpkins.</a> </span></span></span></span><b><span style="font-size: large;"><span style="line-height: 115%;"> </span></span></b></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="font-family: inherit;">
<span style="font-size: 12pt; line-height: 115%;"> </span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="color: orange; font-family: inherit;">
<br />
<span style="font-size: large;"><b><span style="line-height: 115%;">The Treat Bag</span></b></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="color: orange; font-family: inherit;">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="color: orange; font-family: inherit;">
<span style="font-size: large;"><span style="line-height: 115%;"><span style="color: black;"><span style="font-size: small;">Send home a little treat bag. You can give this in lieu of handing out candy for prizes or just because. You can purchase treat bags or make your own. I usually design my own treat bag toppers. <a href="http://www.designhousedigital.com/content/blog/how-to-make-hybrid-treat-bag-toppers-halloween-hybrid-tutorial/">Here</a> is a tutorial for one you can make yourself. It uses photoshop, but I don't have photoshop. I use my print shop program or even Microsoft word. One of these days I'll post my own tutorial. :<) You can always just your scrapbooking supplies to make your toppers.</span></span></span></span></div>
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<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="color: orange; font-family: inherit;">
<span style="font-size: large;"><span style="line-height: 115%;"><span style="color: black;"><span style="font-size: small;">Or these<a href="http://www.craftbits.com/project/halloween-treat-bag-paper-bag-pumpkin"> bags</a> would make pretty great treat bags. </span></span></span></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="color: orange; font-family: inherit;">
<span style="font-size: large;"><span style="line-height: 115%;"><span style="color: black;"><span style="font-size: small;"><br />This is an adorable <a href="http://thepaperlandscaper.blogspot.com/2010/09/fall-treat-holder.html">fall treat holder</a> idea. </span></span></span></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="color: orange; font-family: inherit;">
<span style="font-size: large;"><span style="line-height: 115%;"><span style="color: black;"><span style="font-size: small;"><br /></span></span></span></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="color: orange; font-family: inherit;">
<span style="font-size: large;"><span style="line-height: 115%;"><span style="color: black;"><span style="font-size: small;">A easy idea is to stamp or stencil a pumpkin on a plain little lunch sack and then tie with raffia. </span></span></span></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="color: orange; font-family: inherit;">
<span style="font-size: large;"><span style="line-height: 115%;"><span style="color: black;"><span style="font-size: small;"><br /></span></span></span></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="color: orange; font-family: inherit;">
<span style="font-size: large;"><span style="line-height: 115%;"><span style="color: black;"><span style="font-size: small;">You can include: </span></span></span></span></div>
<ul style="font-family: inherit;">
<li><span style="font-size: large;"><span style="line-height: 115%;"><span style="color: black;"><span style="font-size: small;">The Pumpkin Prayer</span></span></span></span></li>
<li><span style="font-size: large;"><span style="line-height: 115%;"><span style="color: black;"><span style="font-size: small;"> candy</span></span></span></span></li>
<li><span style="font-size: large;"><span style="line-height: 115%;"><span style="color: black;"><span style="font-size: small;">Pencils decorated with pumpkins</span></span></span></span></li>
<li><span style="font-size: large;"><span style="line-height: 115%;"><span style="color: black;"><span style="font-size: small;">Make pencil toppers to send home from this tutorial from <a href="http://www.abcteach.com/free/c/craft_pumpkinpenciltop.pdf">abcteach</a>.com. </span></span></span></span></li>
<li><span style="font-size: large;"><span style="line-height: 115%;"><span style="color: black;"><span style="font-size: small;">small toys from the dollar tree </span></span></span></span></li>
</ul>
<ul style="font-family: inherit;">
<li><span style="font-size: large;"><span style="line-height: 115%;"><span style="color: black;"><span style="font-size: small;"> </span></span></span><b><span style="line-height: 115%;"> </span></b></span><span style="font-size: 12pt; line-height: 115%;">When all else fails orientaltrading.com has some great Christian pumpkin items to purchase. I just typed Christian Pumpkin in the search box. It brought up lots of products.</span></li>
</ul>
<div style="font-family: inherit;">
<span style="font-size: 12pt; line-height: 115%;"> </span></div>
<div style="font-family: inherit;">
<span style="font-size: 12pt; line-height: 115%;"> Have a great event! </span></div>
<span style="font-size: 12pt; line-height: 115%;"> </span><br />
<div class="MsoNormal">
</div>Unknownnoreply@blogger.com3tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2274916056612883414.post-11765179309153344382010-12-13T18:01:00.000-08:002010-12-13T18:06:34.437-08:00Here We Come A-Wassailing<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhgykKibc6cAyERDqxjmvjW4GQ2C5XV04ZMFZ-zt1Wt4_-UokehhyK3q0B3HoKZlk_4bHwlwj1CZ4kmb7YAKLxSGK8A4XjmMRMtXM8VKlkiDfMeGIj-xXUidSwZoyCBz6k_IBzZZtb1p9c/s1600/sing.gif" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" n4="true" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhgykKibc6cAyERDqxjmvjW4GQ2C5XV04ZMFZ-zt1Wt4_-UokehhyK3q0B3HoKZlk_4bHwlwj1CZ4kmb7YAKLxSGK8A4XjmMRMtXM8VKlkiDfMeGIj-xXUidSwZoyCBz6k_IBzZZtb1p9c/s1600/sing.gif" /></a></div>I suppose this is a day late and a dollar short for those of you who have already had your church Christmas programs. Our church had it's Christmas Cantata this past weekend. Besides the beautiful music and message, there was such a beautiful atmosphere. And it was made even more sweeter by the youth group serving Wassail and Hot Chocolate in the foyer before the service began. There wasn't a charge...it wasn't a fundraiser. Just bright and eager teens serving church members and visitors alike. It was a special touch for a special morning. <br />
<br />
Just a bit of advice. Our group had cups with lids, which I found to be very practical. I believe they served Hot Chocolate made with mix and Hot Apple Cider instead of Wassail. Wassail is a bit more involved, but has wonderful results.<br />
<br />
<a href="http://www.kathyrmiller.com/wassail.htm">Here </a>is a recipe for <a href="http://www.kathyrmiller.com/wassail.htm">Wassail. </a> It is probably more practical with a larger congregation or group to serve Hot Cider. But it sure is extra special! This would be great to serve at a Christmas Caroling party or small group.Unknownnoreply@blogger.com2tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2274916056612883414.post-40712851136330413782010-11-21T18:45:00.000-08:002010-11-21T18:45:37.148-08:00I've Been Gone For Far Too Long!<span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;">Imagine my surprise one day when I came across my own blog in a Google search for an activity for Children's Church. I will (with great shame) admit that this particular blog has been sadly neglected. I really don't have a good excuse (maybe a few, but nothing life changing). I have a personal blog "There Will Be A $5.00 Charge For Whining" (which you can find the link to on the sidebar) that I am fairly faithful with and this little blog has sat neglected. So you can also imagine how surprised I was to see that I had several followers and many of you had commented. I know how much these kinds of ideas mean to the church planner (of any occasion) and promise to do better to update as I can. I have changed the look a bit and have tried to organize some of posts better. I know I need to go through and test some of the links I have given you...just to be sure they work. Thanks for reading!</span>Unknownnoreply@blogger.com2tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2274916056612883414.post-55449630131751588682008-04-07T19:37:00.000-07:002008-11-18T22:05:14.884-08:00Recipe for My Life History<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEim0rtB_oAGObfO9MscPdRjFs1kTGgQ5a6yiD1BbDDRmeh6Kkvk-P04Ed39_VXoClf5mZL-rYOFOXUDKOPG8dp9Bqy29JrCstjDmn2RKAe7lEwAAY9jBYbSHkr0Xd_tE0h_A9hzAyvNtZg/s1600-h/ktcl1z.gif"><img id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5186699717528091026" style="FLOAT: left; MARGIN: 0px 10px 10px 0px; CURSOR: hand" alt="" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEim0rtB_oAGObfO9MscPdRjFs1kTGgQ5a6yiD1BbDDRmeh6Kkvk-P04Ed39_VXoClf5mZL-rYOFOXUDKOPG8dp9Bqy29JrCstjDmn2RKAe7lEwAAY9jBYbSHkr0Xd_tE0h_A9hzAyvNtZg/s400/ktcl1z.gif" border="0" /></a><br /><div>Once again I have taken an idea from someone else and I'm not sure to attribute it to. This is a wonderful idea for a women's meeting or a family get-together.<br /><br />"RECIPE FOR MY LIFE HISTORY"<br />Combine a generous slice of your life history, a dash of nostalgia, several cups of facts and feelings and 104 deliciously interesting questions. Draw one slip of paper. Take a few minutes to enjoy the memories. Paste or write the question at the top of a blank page. Fill in your answer. Don't worry about your handwriting or spelling - just tell your story. This product was prepared to preserve your life as a message. Enjoy the scrumptious, home-made memories that celebrate something very important - YOU!"<br />Print the following questions on strips of paper and place in the jar:<br />Tell something about each of your children - the personalities, talents, and traits that make them different and special.<br />Describe a favorite vacation of your married years.<br />Tell about home cures or old wives tales: hiccups, toothaches, earaches, or arthritis.<br />Where were you and what were you doing the day the wall came down in Germany (or the coup occurred in USSR or when World War II started or ended)?<br />Describe your wedding dress, bridesmaid dresses, etc. (suit etc, if male.)<br />Write a description of your husband or wife.<br />Tell about your retirement - when, where, what will you do with your time?<br />Describe your mother's wedding dress - what do you know about her wedding?<br />Where did you live as a child - town, country, suburb, etc?<br />What is your greatest joy? Your greatest sorrow?<br />Do you have a favorite author? Who? Why? Tell about your favorite books as a child and as an adult.<br />What do you feel has been the most significant world events that has taken place in your lifetime and why?<br />Describe the most serious illness or accident that you have had.<br />Describe your yard as a child. Did you help with the yardwork?<br />What are your memories --- Draw a diagram if you can.<br />Tell about Family Reunions.<br />Tell about your teen-age social life - your friends, dances, dating, outings, church functions etc.<br />What would you like to be remembered for?<br />Describe your last home as a young couple.<br />How did your father spend his time supporting his family?<br />Tell about exciting experiences as a young woman.<br />Tell about your life as the children left home - new interests, etc. What did you do with the extra time -- new employment, moves, hobbies, etc.<br />Tell about handed-down talents, foods, clothespin dolls, willow whistles, pottery, quilting, whittling, meat drying etc.<br />What lessons did you take as a child? Did you carry any over into adulthood?<br />What were your favorite places to go with your family when you were young?<br />Tell about any ancestors that you know about - name dates, etc. for historical purposes and any stories about them.<br />Tell about anniversaries, celebrations, trips, gifts.<br />What were your fears, expectations, anticipations about getting married?<br />Tell about a special date you had with a boy/girl friend or your fiancée.<br />What is your mother's best trait? Worst? The traits you share?<br />What is your father's best trait? Worst? The traits you share?<br />Give one word on how to live successfully.<br />How do you feel about winning? Losing?<br />Tell a courtship story about your parents - how they met etc... Tell the same about your courtship.<br />Describe a favorite childhood friend and something you did with her or him.<br />Tell about your grandchildren - how many- how did you feel about being a grandparent?<br />Have you met or worked with famous people? Who? Where?<br />How did you become engaged?<br />What is the most wonderful thing that ever happened to you? The worst?<br />What is your child-rearing philosophy?<br />Describe your Sundays as a mother/father or as a child.<br />What can frighten you the most and why?<br />Do you wish you had more sisters or brothers? Why?<br />Tell about your favorite aunt.<br />What is the most exciting place that you have ever been to and why?<br />What was your worst, really embarrassing moment?<br />What games did you play as a child - inside and outside?<br />Where did your grandparents live? What was their home like? Did it have a certain smell or look?<br />Tell about your favorite uncle.<br />Did you have a close relationship with your grandparents? Tell about it.<br />Did you have a bicycle, and what was it like?<br />Tell how, when, where you learned to drive and any memorable experiences.<br />Tell about each of your children's names, birthdate, where, doctors, circumstances surrounding the birth - raising them in the home - problems, joys, etc.<br />How did you like being the oldest, youngest or middle child?<br />What were the advantages or disadvantages?<br />Tell about a frustrating experience that you have had with a car.<br />What is your advice to those younger than you?<br />Were you ever in a drama, speech, sports, pep or glee club? Tell about it. Did you and your father share any interests together - what and why?<br />What is your favorite scripture and why?<br />Describe a childhood Christmas.<br />Describe a typical day in elementary school.<br />What did you do when you were a child that got you in the most trouble, and how did your parents handle it?<br />Tell about your first crush.<br />Did you go camping? Tell about your experiences.<br />How did you feel about school?<br />Do you remember any of your four grandparents? Any greats? What were their names?<br />Tell about your mother: her personality, characteristics, stature, coloring, talents, temperament, family stories about her, her role in your home, etc.<br />What do you fantasize about doing or being?<br />What is your personal secret of happiness?<br />Describe a perfect spring day and activities on that day?<br />What is the most important lesson, message, or advice that you have learned that you might pass on to others?<br />Thinking back, was there a teacher who had a great influence on you?<br />Tell about your own family traditions: Christmas, birthdays, graduation, 4th of July, Halloween, Thanksgiving, Memorial Day, Mothers or Fathers Day, weddings, funerals, hunting etc.<br />Describe a childhood birthday.<br />How did you become engaged?<br />What personality trait do you admire and why?<br />Did you have a favorite TV, radio, program as a child? Tell about it.<br />Did you go to college or have vocational training? Where or when?<br />Did you have a childhood hideout? Tell about it.<br />Tell about a favorite trip or vacation.<br />What is your secret for good health?<br />Describe a childhood Christmas.<br />Did it snow much when you were a child - tell something about it, what did you do?<br />Describe getting a Christmas tree as a child, when did you put it up and decorate it?<br />Tell about your civic or political activities.<br />Write about some places you went with your father.<br />Write about some places that you went with your mother.<br />What do you think about movies - what is your favorite movie and why?<br />If you could be an animal, which one would you choose and why?<br />Describe a typical day during your Junior High years..<br />What kind of extra-curricular activities did you participate in at school?<br />Tell about the houses you lived in childhood - addresses, phone numbers, etc...<br />What do you think brings good or bad luck?<br />Tell about all the places you have worked.<br />Describe your wedding day.<br />What are your food preferences and how did they come about?<br />How did your mother spend her time?<br />Were you responsible for household chores? What were they? Which did you enjoy most/ least?<br />What are your most deeply held values?</div>Unknownnoreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2274916056612883414.post-66489625379767445962008-04-07T19:29:00.000-07:002008-11-18T22:05:15.063-08:00VBS with a Twist<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhiGhj4a9fZx9pTeRHUI_16maGGs2ZqDm9KqFEh6ONS1_6_zRCU9h-yYM_XvzgHVjb03TWAW424mNMt-RLgzcUaC7rQpg92brtl40m3gLzA0h_F-Ic3sESo1CRHRTguhrMIY_0RyKlfHBI/s1600-h/vbs12c.gif"><img id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5186697969476401538" style="FLOAT: left; MARGIN: 0px 10px 10px 0px; CURSOR: hand" alt="" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhiGhj4a9fZx9pTeRHUI_16maGGs2ZqDm9KqFEh6ONS1_6_zRCU9h-yYM_XvzgHVjb03TWAW424mNMt-RLgzcUaC7rQpg92brtl40m3gLzA0h_F-Ic3sESo1CRHRTguhrMIY_0RyKlfHBI/s320/vbs12c.gif" border="0" /></a><br /><div>VBS is a great outreach tool, but boy can it wear you and your church folks out! A few years ago, I did some research on how to make VBS work at our little church. I apologize to whoever posted this in the first place. It has been a long time and I have had this in my "files." Another alternative to the ideas below is to do a month long Wednesday Night VBS that involves the whole church. We actually have done this and enjoyed it. </div><br /><div></div><br /><div>Weekend VBS<br />The weekend VBS schedule is somewhat like the one-day schedule, but with a little more breathing room. This schedule starts on Friday night and continues through Saturday, offering a slower pace. Again, the schedule is demanding for preschoolers and younger children so workers in those age groups need to plan their schedules to allow for the physical needs of their learners.<br />Friday5:30-6:00 pm - Light dinner6:00-6:30 - Worship Rally6:30-8:30 - Day 1<br />Saturday 8:00-8:30 am - Worship Rally8:30-10:30 - Day 210:30-11:00 - Worship Rally11:00-1:00 pm - Day 31:00-1:30 - Lunch1:30-2:00 - Worship Rally2:00-4:00 - Day 44:00-6:00 - Day 56:00 - Dinner/Closing Worship Rally/Family Night</div><br /><div><br />One-Day VBS<br />Hillcrest Baptist Church in Lufkin, Texas is one of several churches that have reported having a one-day VBS. Steve Chandler, VBS director, reports that the church has used the schedule for three years. The change to the one-day VBS schedule was based on the need for volunteer workers and dealing with the busy schedules of today's children. Saturday is the day of choice for most one-day VBSs, though a Sunday could also work. A typical one-day VBS might follow this schedule:<br />8:00 am - Continental breakfast8:30 - Worship Rally (the only Worship Rally of the day)9:00-10:30 - Day 110:30-12:00 - Day 212:00-1:00 pm - Lunch1:00-3:30 - Day 33:30-5:00 - Day 45:00-6:00 - Dinner6:00-7:30 - Day 57:30 - Family Night Celebration<br />Because the schedule for each "day" allows for only an hour and a half, kids will not be able to rotate through all sites each "day." Plan to have Opening and Closing Bible study for children in each "day" and then offer a different rotation option (crafts, music, missions, recreation) in each "day." For instance, music with Day 1, crafts with Day 2, recreation with Day 3, missions with Day 4, crafts (or another rotation site) with Day 5. While the day-long event could be fun and exciting, Steve Chandler says the schedule is difficult for preschoolers and some younger children. </div>Unknownnoreply@blogger.com3tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2274916056612883414.post-63784832139618870402007-11-18T16:24:00.000-08:002011-10-24T08:37:33.557-07:00Thank You For Keeping the Nursery<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgPYDMsYzaxx4fkMFU9f3S10H9MqktH_blPs6OK14rdY8FgWKA1_GvLW5JMcf_U_Zi7Sepf4DnOia36c1NCyQCn4zIOAZQ7FrwcsHlbtI3xcbvMGDSGj9l3OKACo6_sn_tEkeFWeEHnog8/s1600-h/BABY+BEAR+WITH+BOTTLE.JPG"><img alt="" border="0" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5134342704886571938" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgPYDMsYzaxx4fkMFU9f3S10H9MqktH_blPs6OK14rdY8FgWKA1_GvLW5JMcf_U_Zi7Sepf4DnOia36c1NCyQCn4zIOAZQ7FrwcsHlbtI3xcbvMGDSGj9l3OKACo6_sn_tEkeFWeEHnog8/s400/BABY+BEAR+WITH+BOTTLE.JPG" style="cursor: hand; float: left; margin: 0px 10px 10px 0px;" /></a><br />
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Here is a poem I found some time ago online for nursery volunteers. You might attach to a little gift or just print it out on a pretty piece of paper. Take the time to tell them how much you truly appreciate them! Again...(I do this alot!) I am sorry that I cannot give credit to the original author.</div>
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<b><i>Update</i></b>: This poem was written by Lois Turley. You can find the poem <a href="http://www.hopeundivided.com/2009/05/04/thank-you-for-keeping-the-nursery/">here </a>at the author's website. <br />
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Mama left me in the church nursery. </div>
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She said, "You can stay here and play." </div>
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I was so very afraid, but you comforted me. </div>
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And Mama was saved that day. </div>
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At least once a month in the nursery, </div>
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You served God by caring for me</div>
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So Mama could attend church and learn to make </div>
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Our home everything it should be. </div>
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There were those who said, "I'm too busy,"</div>
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Or, "I don't want to miss church today. </div>
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I'm too young. I'm too old. I've done my part.</div>
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The nursery? Please, don't ask me to stay." </div>
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But you said, "No, I'm not too busy. </div>
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I'm just the right age I know. </div>
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I could never do enough for the King that I serve. </div>
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When you need me in the nursery I'll go." </div>
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My life might have been so different </div>
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If you had not answered God's plea </div>
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For workers to serve where the need is so great, </div>
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To care for little people like me. </div>
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Thank you for keeping the nursery. </div>
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Mama taught me to follow Christ, too. </div>
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Many people had a part, but the most special one</div>
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To me will always be you </div>Unknownnoreply@blogger.com6tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2274916056612883414.post-67273213919680910812007-11-17T13:40:00.000-08:002008-11-18T22:05:15.417-08:00Children Go Where I Send Thee<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgWr9WrRRZ2qFXP6mvhrYfqJMSu04_xKsXi2plRUWzxjVWBpRqWb7rgZ4tmtPrqsKwHm1CrFErlMRvCOn6DZb6Ye5aifZgt2Yo8gRKBBRjXrR1rw930mh9aEo3jb7uHUPfTfH3P2cGBazg/s1600-h/arkwnoah.gif"><img id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5133928781708387202" style="FLOAT: left; MARGIN: 0px 10px 10px 0px; CURSOR: hand" alt="" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgWr9WrRRZ2qFXP6mvhrYfqJMSu04_xKsXi2plRUWzxjVWBpRqWb7rgZ4tmtPrqsKwHm1CrFErlMRvCOn6DZb6Ye5aifZgt2Yo8gRKBBRjXrR1rw930mh9aEo3jb7uHUPfTfH3P2cGBazg/s400/arkwnoah.gif" border="0" /></a><br /><div>I wrote this 3 years ago...somethings just don't change!</div><br /><div></div><br /><div>When I was a little girl some of my most favorite memories were of my parents talking about their work as Missionaries in Nicaragua when I was born. It sounded all so romantic. The beautiful people, the tropical countryside. Even the work itself sounded rewarding. I could just imagine teaching little children to read in my thatched hut complete with tikki torches and pineapples. I have done more than my share of fretting throughout the years. Am I truly doing what I was put on the earth to do? Am I missing my calling by clinging to the conveniences our great country has to offer? </div><br /><div><br />Last fall I went on a 3 day Retreat just for women. I had been excited if not apprehensive for weeks. It had been awhile since I had participated in communal living. It was also to be one of the few times I was going to spend the night away from my little boy. At the same time I relished the idea of a few days in such beautiful surroundings. Imagine if you will with me the first time I walked into the dorm and realized that I would be sharing my space for the next few days with 40 women. Not only that, but the beds themselves were bunkbeads with plywood bases and 2 inch mattresses. Immediately I could feel all of the pins and screws in my legs and hips groan. To make matters worse I couldn't sit upright on these beds. I did my fair share of initial fussing. My first fear was that I would fall out of bed and break my other hip. My other concern was that my legs would mold to the plywood and it would take an electric drill and some WD-40 to set me free. Thankfully, my whining was heard by my two nurse friends and one of them pushed two beds together and gave me a double. I felt only momentarily guilty.<br />Around church time another concern was raised. Did I really want to see the bare hinnies of all these women in the dorm? I will be the first to admit that my own figure is far from a happy state of public viewing. I could bring down several small aircraft with just the shine of my bare bum alone. Let me be somewhat more specific. What I witnessed was not a hopeful sight for young women everywhere. I have trouble enough worrying that when I am old my breasts will clear my knees. Right now my body is shaped more like a fluffy, marshmallow puff. When I am old I will be cottage cheese. All that said, most of us kept our disrobing to a bathroom stall. I get enough comments from my 3 year old son.</div><br /><div><br />After a service of refreshing and spiritual renewal we all headed back to our prospective rooms and proceeded to settle down for the night. I noticed right away that the room was stifling hot. One of the ladies got a tool and jimmied down the air conditioner. Herein rose another problem. Most of the women in that room were experiencing menopause, or like me, they are warm all the time and would sleep happily naked in the ice box. Other women in the room had taken to bundling up with four and five blankets. As I blocked out cries of, "turn it off" and "just put on another blanket," I thought of another convenience I had neglected to bring along with me. For most of my life I have depended on the noise and air circulation of a fan to help me sleep. A crutch you say? Absolutely. But it is my crutch and I can't sleep without the lull of a swishing fan blade...winter or summer. For the rest of the night I dozed 10 minutes here, 30 minutes there. Moved from side to side on my plywood mattress and tried to pretend that the concert of snores I was hearing was in fact, a sleek Windmere fan...singing me to sleep.<br />It was at some point in that long night that I decided that next year my group would spend the extra money and stay in the posh new campground hotel on the hill. The one with real beds, a television and an elevator that goes both ways. By the time morning arrived, many more ladies in the room were also making plans to book rooms at the hotel next year.</div><br /><div><br />Despite my lack of comfort and my tendency for whining, I had a wonderful time at this retreat. It was wonderful seeing women from all walks of life come together with a common purpose. To be refreshed. The weekend did confirm something I had been suspecting about myself for quite a number of years. I am High Maintenance! To be truthful, my idea of a “roughing it” is a Motel 6. Camping is my least favorite activity. Air Conditioning one of my most favorite things. Hey, I admit it! God had other things in store for me. One of theme was not sleeping in a thatched hut in darkest Africa. My whining alone would create global tension. </div>Unknownnoreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2274916056612883414.post-5845923777235969582007-11-17T13:21:00.000-08:002008-11-18T22:05:15.589-08:00Snacks<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh-9std0Hom0e6ZvD94U7kZ1hUuZuX2qXtyGQHQHq9X5zDsvoMO5nVaKTQqi-WLC9GXXQ_G5wH4pmqJUCxhtrY3I3E43vnPTMw0t0erjFJ9q73zj8p6Cv5jUD1Ajt67uij0pDxmRg2N0QU/s1600-h/g36-BreadBowlswDips.jpg"><img id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5133926930577482610" style="FLOAT: left; MARGIN: 0px 10px 10px 0px; CURSOR: hand" alt="" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh-9std0Hom0e6ZvD94U7kZ1hUuZuX2qXtyGQHQHq9X5zDsvoMO5nVaKTQqi-WLC9GXXQ_G5wH4pmqJUCxhtrY3I3E43vnPTMw0t0erjFJ9q73zj8p6Cv5jUD1Ajt67uij0pDxmRg2N0QU/s400/g36-BreadBowlswDips.jpg" border="0" /></a><br /><div><strong>Christmas Wassail</strong><br /><br />I love the holidays! There is nothing like sipping something hot by the Christmas Tree watching the lights.<br />2 qts. of apple juice<br />2 cups of orange juice<br />1 cup of lemon juice<br />1 and one-half teaspoon of whole cloves<br />5 cups of pineapple juice<br />Sugar or honey to taste<br />1 cinnamon stick<br /><br />Heat all the ingredients in a large pan or crock-pot. Simmer for 30 minutes. Remove cloves and cinnamon stick. Serve in a crock-pot to keep warm. Light a candle, put on a Christmas CD and enjoy!<br /><br />They do make packaged cider mix that is really tasty and easy, but this recipe is something extra special (and not quite as sugary).</div><br /><div></div><br /><div><strong>Spinach Dip</strong></div><br /><div></div><br /><div>1 (10 oz.) pkg. frozen chopped spinach, thawed (do not use fresh)<br />1 1/2 c. sour cream<br />1 c. mayo<br />1 (4 oz.) pkg. dried vegetable soup mix<br />1 (8 oz.) can water chestnuts, finely chopped<br />3 green onions, finely chopped (I’ve used chives, also)<br />Loaf of round bread ( I used sourdough, but you can use pumpernickle,etc.)<br />Squeeze spinach until dry. In medium bowl, stir together spinach, sour cream and soup mix. Add finely chopped water chestnuts and green onions. Cover and refrigerate 2 hours or overnight. Cut slice from top of round loaf of bread, hollow out loaf to leave shell to contain dip. Use bread removed from shell and top slice to cut into bite size pieces. Butter inside of bread shell, fill loaf with dip and place on platter and surround with bread pieces and/or variety of raw vegetables.</div><br /><div></div><br /><div><strong>Chocolate Fondue</strong><br /></div><br /><div>Now this is a Pampered Chef recipe and I hope I am not infringing on any copyright codes by sharing it with you, but this is one of the most popular party dishes I have ever taken anywhere. Just serve with fresh fruit, marshmallows, cookies or whatever tickles you fancy. I love Pampered Chef and own many of their cookbooks as well as cooking gadgets, serving pieces and other odds and ends I have a rectangle baking stone that I absolutely love!<br />3/4 cup semi-sweet chocolate morsels<br />1 container (8 ounces) frozen whipped topping (thawed)<br />1/2 tsp. cinnamon<br />1/2 rum or vanilla extract (optional)<br />Place chocolate morsels and half of the whipped topping in a small bowl. Microwave, uncovered, on HIGH 1 minute or until chocolate is melted and smooth, stirring after each 20-second interval. Fold in remaining whipped topping, cinnamon, and rum extract, if desired; mix until smooth. Cover; refrigerate at least 30 minutes. To serve, spoon fondue into small bowl.<br />Yield: 2 cups<br /><br /><strong>The Best Ever Cheese Dip<br /></strong></div><br /><div>This is a really good nacho dip. I can’t count how many youth parties and church get-togethers I have been asked to bring this dip. I think the mushroom soup makes the difference-you decide.<br /><br />1 pound of ground beef or sausage, browned and drained<br />1 pound of Velveeta cheese<br />1 can of Rotel<br />1 can of cream of mushroom soup<br /><br />Add all the ingredients to a crock-pot. Set on high and let it cook up, stirring often. It can be cooked quicker in the microwave if you need to, but it isn’t as good. Be sure to turn the crock-pot off or on low. It will burn if you are not carefully. </div><br /><div></div><br /><div><strong>Salsa<br /></strong><br />“Why make salsa when you can buy it at the store,” you say? You have never had this salsa! It was first introduced to us by a family that we knew from Venezuela. I have also seen Martha Stewart make a version of it on her show. We eat buckets of this stuff in the summer time.<br /><br />4-6 tomatoes<br />1 onion<br />2 cloves of garlic<br />Salt<br />Juice of one lemon<br />Optional: green or yellow pepper, cilantro, and oregano<br /><br />Chop up all fresh ingredients in the food processor. Be sure to pulse some of the tomatoes so that you still have some “chunks.” Add the lemon juice and salt to taste.<br /><br />You can eat this stuff with chips, on eggs, over steak. It’s wonderful!</div>Unknownnoreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2274916056612883414.post-87777519466901797562007-11-15T13:14:00.000-08:002008-11-18T22:05:15.971-08:00The Main Dish<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiy4ld8M8qYtCBPvAelBxT4xxa4UQmUqZG7zfsxmiRijRaLBXRezk00kXzBuL5ZQNtQhcQdFsb_l-o6HxPx8LI8FYEwgaAu73bnE93_xWcGigIIJ5mt4dkI-D0It3JrqUcmtZqKxKZKpi4/s1600-h/BRI-033~Lasagna-Posters.jpg"><img id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5133202966595101538" style="FLOAT: right; MARGIN: 0px 0px 10px 10px; CURSOR: hand" alt="" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiy4ld8M8qYtCBPvAelBxT4xxa4UQmUqZG7zfsxmiRijRaLBXRezk00kXzBuL5ZQNtQhcQdFsb_l-o6HxPx8LI8FYEwgaAu73bnE93_xWcGigIIJ5mt4dkI-D0It3JrqUcmtZqKxKZKpi4/s400/BRI-033~Lasagna-Posters.jpg" border="0" /></a><strong>Beef Brisket</strong><br /><div>This is a version of a recipe my dad has used for years to serve the church folks. It is absolutely delicious. These portions are a bit small. I would double them for extra yummieness and use the juices after cooking to make some gravy. I've literally seen folks drool (in a good way) after eating this brisket.<br /><br />4-6 lbs. beef brisket<br />1/2 c. soy sauce<br />1 can beef broth<br />1 T. red wine vinegar<br />1 T.. liquid smoke<br />2 cloves garlic, minced<br /><br />Mix together all of the liquid ingredients together then add to whatever you want to marinate your meat in. We’ve done it in the big cooker pans (you know which one I mean). Marinade meat overnight in refrigerator. Place meat and marinade in oven-proof pan. Cover tightly and bake at 300 degrees for 4-5 hours. The meat should fall apart. </div><br /><div></div><br /><div>P.S. I have a distinct childhood memory concerning this brisket recipe. My parents had assembled pans and pans of brisket and marinated it at home and were in the process of carting it to the church in my mom's car to bake it. Somebody hit a bump and one of the pans went spilling all over the upholstered seats. That car smelled like liquid smoke and vinegar for years afterwards. </div><br /><div></div><br /><div></div><br /><div><strong>Chicken Cordon Bleu</strong> </div><br /><div>This might sound fancy, but this version is fairly simple to make. You can make a sauce out of mushroom soup, sour cream and a little lemon juice, but I think it's fine just like it is.</div><br /><div><br />8 large skinless, boneless chicken breasts (estimate for 2 pieces of chicken per person...we all like chikin')<br />8 slices of Swiss cheese (just don't use that cheap imitation white cheese)<br />8 slices of ham<br />1 egg, beaten<br />1 cup of seasoned flour (just add salt & pepper or some all-purpose seasoning salt or a little bit of parsley)<br />1 cup of breadcrumbs </div><br /><div><br />Put the chicken breasts between two sheets of plastic wrap or in a ziplock bag. Pound with a meat mallet until fairly thin. This should help you relieve some stress.<br />Season the open fillets with salt and black pepper. Place a cheese and ham slice on each fillet. fold the fillet in half to enclose the filling. You can also roll them and “fasten” them with toothpicks. Just be sure to warn folks or make the toothpicks obvious. You don't want anyone to become impaled by a wayward toothpick.<br />Coat each of the fillets in the flour. Dip them in the egg and then roll in the dry crumbs, turning to get an even coat.<br />Bake them in a lightly greased oven dish at 400 degrees for about 40 minutes. Everone will think you are a gourmet cook!</div><br /><div></div><br /><div><strong>Mama Leone's Lasanga</strong> </div><br /><div>No. My mama (or her's either) is not Leone. But she has had Leone's Italian Cookbook since I can remember. I don't think there is a drop of Italian blood flowing through our veins, but I still absolutely love lasagna, ravioli, polenta. I love the rich meaty sauces and garlic...I love garlic. This is our standard "serve to impress" lasagna recipe. It is modified a little...Mama L really did it up. Be sure to give yourself plenty of time. This isn't a throw it together kind of recipe. You could even make it ahead of time and refrigerate just before the "baking" step.</div><br /><div></div><br /><div><strong>Tomato Sauce</strong></div><br /><div>1/2 pound ground beef</div><br /><div>1/2 pound ground pork (though I've been known to use Italian sausage)</div><br /><div>10 fresh parsley springs, leaves only (though just a few shakes of dried parsley will do)</div><br /><div>2 large garlic cloves, mashed</div><br /><div>1/4 cup olive oil</div><br /><div>14 cup of butter (you can do without it if you need to)</div><br /><div>3/4 pound onions, peeled and diced</div><br /><div>1 tsp. salt</div><br /><div>1/2 tsp. ground black pepper</div><br /><div>1 1/2 pounds peeled, chopped tomatoes</div><br /><div>1 small green pepper</div><br /><div>3 T. tomato paste</div><br /><div></div><br /><div>Saute meat, olive oil, butter (yeah right!), & onions in skillet. Add parsley and garlic, salt and pepper and cook for 20 minutes. Ad tomatoes and green pepper and cook for 10 minutes. If you are going to use the meatballs this is where you do it. If you do use them cook for 1 1/2 hours on simmer. If not just cook sauce for another 30 minutes or so. When cooked add the toato paste.</div><br /><div></div><br /><div>Now Mama L's recipe calls for meatballs. You can make these if you want too. I usually don't.</div><br /><div></div><br /><div><strong>Meat Balls</strong></div><br /><div>1 pound ground beef</div><br /><div>1 pound ground pork</div><br /><div>1/2 small garlic clove</div><br /><div>Fresh parsley</div><br /><div>1/2 cup bread crums</div><br /><div>1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese</div><br /><div>1 Lg. egg</div><br /><div>1/2 cup of small raisins (optional, in my opinion)</div><br /><div>1 t. salt</div><br /><div>1/2 tsp black pepper</div><br /><div></div><br /><div>Mix well and form into small balls. You should get about 32.</div><br /><div></div><br /><div>Now Mama L also gives a recipe for making your own lasagna noodles. If you are considering that just quitely turn off your computer and consider taking your guests to the Golden Corral. You don't have to be so fancy (though I will admit I have gone so far as to make my own noddles from time to time...but then again I have issues). Use premade lasagna noodles and cook them according to the directions on the box.</div><br /><div></div><br /><div><strong>Sauce for Top of Lasanga</strong></div><br /><div>Oh yes. Mama has a top, too.</div><br /><div></div><br /><div>2 T. of butter, melted</div><br /><div>2 T. of heavy cream</div><br /><div>3/4 cup of your previously made Tomato Sauce</div><br /><div>2 T. of flour</div><br /><div></div><br /><div>Combine the first 3 ingredients in a sauce pain. Heat. Stir slowly nd add flour.</div><br /><div></div><br /><div><strong>Assembling the Lasagna</strong></div><br /><div></div><br /><div>Do it in this order </div><br /><div>Tomato Sauce</div><br /><div>Cooked Lasanga noodles</div><br /><div>Ricotta Cheese (you will need 2 lbs. total)</div><br /><div>Grated Parmesan cheese (1 1/2 cups total)</div><br /><div></div><br /><div>Do this for about three layers. End with a layer of lasanga noodles and cover with sauce. Cover pan with foil and bake in an 350 degree oven for 20 minutes. Remove the foil and continue baking for about 20 minutes longer. Mama L says that this will serve 8. Yummy!</div><br /><div></div><br /><div><strong>This is my “Mama Leone’s Lasanga Recipe is just too much for me” Lasagna </strong></div><br /><div><strong>Recipe</strong></div><br /><div>1 lb. sweet Italian sausage </div><br /><div>1 Tbsp. olive oil </div><br /><div>1 clove garlic, minced </div><br /><div>1 lb. ground meat </div><br /><div>1 26 oz. jar spaghetti sauce</div><br /><div>1 28 oz. can tomato puree</div><br /><div>2 tsp. Italian seasoning (basil)</div><br /><div>1 tsp. oregano </div><br /><div>1 15 oz. container ricotta cheese </div><br /><div>1/4 c. milk 2 eggs parsley </div><br /><div>1 1 lb. package lasagna noodles</div><br /><div>1 cup of shredded mozzarella cheese</div><br /><div></div><br /><div>Directions:<br />Cook sausage and then add garlic and a little olive oil in a large skillet. Drain.. Add spaghetti sauce, tomato puree, Italian seasoning, and oregano. Simmer to allow flavors to blend, give or take ten minutes.Combine ricotta cheese, eggs, milk in small bowl. Add chopped parsley to taste. Lay lasagna noodles in 9 x 13 pan. Cover with very hot water and allow to stand at least five minutes. I would then take them out and lay on a damp towel while you assemble the lasagna.In a 9 x 13 spread a thin layer of the sauce over the bottom. Arrange one layer of the noodles on the sauce. Spread a thin layer of the ricotta cheese mixture over the noodles. Scatter a layer of sausage over the cheese. Follow with a layer of sauce. Repeat to the top of the baking dish, ending with noodles topped with sauce. Scatter mozzarella over the top. To serve, cover baking dish with foil and bake at 350 degrees about one hour. Remove foil for the last ten minutes of cooking time.<br /></div><br /><div></div>Unknownnoreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2274916056612883414.post-45197095800938792522007-11-15T12:50:00.000-08:002008-11-18T22:05:16.107-08:00New-Comer Fellowship<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh9Bj8l74J1TMi5p0Kp1bs7Q66fdkZ-9DfGQTNPh0iJ4eVaW4g6cWaWMBoS6-HxmJkALfEyknCnwjWJmYfabAcBq89gvJSp-1Sard6Hr-MP5kzSgDJqCSXVoSIbqa-nr5bAT_lJfMcEAoc/s1600-h/Testimonials_shaking_hands.jpg"><img id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5133174950523429714" style="FLOAT: left; MARGIN: 0px 10px 10px 0px; CURSOR: hand" alt="" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh9Bj8l74J1TMi5p0Kp1bs7Q66fdkZ-9DfGQTNPh0iJ4eVaW4g6cWaWMBoS6-HxmJkALfEyknCnwjWJmYfabAcBq89gvJSp-1Sard6Hr-MP5kzSgDJqCSXVoSIbqa-nr5bAT_lJfMcEAoc/s400/Testimonials_shaking_hands.jpg" border="0" /></a> New-Comer fellowships or Dinners are events that allow visitors or new attendees to get to know your pastor and your staff better. They are important because they help connect people to other individuals and to leadership. They are generally are in more intimate settings. There are plenty of options when planning a New-Comer Dinner for your church.<br /><strong><br />How Often?</strong><br />This depends on the size and type of church you have. If you are in a larger church or have a lot of visitors you need to have them as often as you can. A lot of people slip through the cracks. It’s important to make them feel welcome and a part of your group. Some churches have them once a month. You also could consider once a quarter or once every other month.<br /><br /><strong>What type?</strong><br />Again, this depends on your church and basically your gifts. We pastored a small church for a few years where it was easier to host small groups in our home. That is a great option for church plants or even small groups. Dinners are always the best option….everybody likes a free meal. Of course, you can always just serve coffee and dessert. Though I prefer appetizers and snacks to solely dessert. If you have staff assign everyone a appetizer, salad, etc. to bring. I’ve given you some menu ideas on down.<br /><br /><strong>The Invitation<br /></strong>Be sure you make announcements and place it in your bulletin. There might be somebody you miss by just a letter or email invitation only. Plus, open it up to newer visitors. Maybe a family is just visiting your church, but wants to learn more about the church. Make it an open invitation. Call, email, send a card, announce it, stick it in the bulletin and make a flyer to hang on your bulletin boards. You’ll get plenty of attention. Most importantly, just ask somebody. We were “pew sitters” during a difficult time in our lives. We would hear of church events and think “that sounds like fun,” but felt so disconnected that we didn’t make the effort. It would have made a big difference for someone to come to us and say, “please would you…” I never knew how much that makes a difference until I was outside of the loop looking in. <div></div><div><strong>The Decor</strong></div><div>I could go on and on about this, but make sure you make your event look warm and inviting. Nothing too fancy. You might consider decorating seasonally. For spring you could garden themed table decorations (planters, small clean garden tools, pretty garden gloves & flowers). If it is summertime consider using beach decorations (inflatables, beach towels, sunglasses, sand toys). For fall use scarecrows, pumpkins and mums. In winter decorate with snowmen or snowflakes. If you wish to keep it really simple purchase or make decorations that you can use over and over again. I had some really pretty wooden birdhouses I had purchased on year (Hobby Lobby half-price) for a Home Missions convention. I just added some greenery and we had very cute tables. (For the Home Missions convention I added small American flags)<br /><br /><strong>All About Me</strong><br />Make out a fun and non-threatening form for people to fill out at your event. You might make this part of your icebreaker game time. It will give people a chance to let you know a little bit more about themselves. Include a section for prayer needs and any area of interest to get involved in. Don’t make it complicated. People don’t want to feel like they are signing away their first born or anything.<br /><br />Here is a link for some interesting questions to ask.<br /><a href="http://members.tripod.com/~lotsofinfo/">http://members.tripod.com/~lotsofinfo/</a><br /><br /><strong>The Games</strong><br />You need an ice breaker or two to lighten the mood. Keep in mind that these are visitors and might not be comfortable trying to pass an orange along under their chin. Here are a few sites for ice breakers.<br /><br /><a href="http://www.creativeladiesministry.com/icebreakers.html">http://www.creativeladiesministry.com/icebreakers.html</a> - she also has a link at the bottom of the page for other sites<br /><br /><a href="http://www.homefellowshipleaders.com/Homefellowship_Guide/LG/97_icebr1.html">http://www.homefellowshipleaders.com/Homefellowship_Guide/LG/97_icebr1.html</a><br /><br /><a href="http://training-games.com/pdf/40FreeIceBreakers.pdf">http://training-games.com/pdf/40FreeIceBreakers.pdf</a><br /><br /><strong>The Food</strong><br />You should do the best you can. Don’t do potluck. This is an evening just for your guests. They don’t need to stress out about what to bring. If you have a group in your church that does the cooking for functions let them assist you. If you chose to do dessert have your staff bring a dessert or two a piece. Just keep this in mind. You are going to have some folks with health issues. I am diabetic. I cringe every time I am invited to a dessert party. I either don’t get to eat or I spend the night in a sugar coma. I like the snack party idea better if you are not going to serve dinner. Here are some of my favorite menus for a New-Comer Dinner. I have recipes or tips under my recipe label.<br /><br />Lasagna (save your Spaghetti recipe for an all church event – I have a recipes for both on this site!)<br />Salad<br />Garlic Bread<br />Dessert<br /><br />Beef Brisket<br />Smashed Potatoes<br />Green Beans<br />Hot Rolls<br />Dessert<br /><br />Chicken Cordon Bleu<br />Smashed Potatoes or Baked Potatoes<br />Salad<br />Dessert<br /><br /><br /><strong>The Goodies</strong><br />Make sure everyone goes home with something. You can either put together a goodie bag or make your own favors. There are plenty of printable templates for candy bar wrappers, etc. Just add your church information.<br />Here are a list of items you might consider for your goodie bags.<br /><br />Samples of hand lotion, note pads, candy, bookmarks, calendars, pens, magnets, small devotionals, gum<br /><br />Here are a few links for printable favors or other favor ideas.<br /><a href="http://www.creativeladiesministry.com/favors.html">http://www.creativeladiesministry.com/favors.html</a> - love her<br /><br /><a href="http://sawyers-specialties.com/survival-kits/">http://sawyers-specialties.com/survival-kits/</a> has survival kit ideas. Really cute!<br /><br /><a href="http://alenkasprintables.com/free_printables.shtml">http://alenkasprintables.com/free_printables.shtml</a><br /><br /><a href="http://www.primdoodles.com/printables.asp">http://www.primdoodles.com/printables.asp</a><br /><br />Door Prizes<br />Gift certificates from local restaurants, car washes, retail stores, gas stations<br /><br /><a href="http://www.creativeladiesministry.com/doorprizes.PDF">http://www.creativeladiesministry.com/doorprizes.PDF</a> Once again Julia has some wonderful tips and ideas for door prizes.<br /><br /><strong>The Fellowship</strong><br />It is so important for your guests to feel comfortable. If you have staff, mix them up in between the guests. If it is just you and your family consider having another church family involved. Encourage your helpers to be friendly and engaging.<br /><br /><strong>Here is a sample event schedule</strong><br /><br />Opening Prayer<br />Meal<br />Ice Breakers<br />Short Introduction to church, staff, ministries<br />Open Forum (answer any questions)<br />Door Prize Giveaway<br />Closing Prayer<br /><br />The Follow-Up<br />Be sure to send a thank-you card to all your guests. If possible, write out a hand-written note. Though for many people now emails are perfectly expectable. Follow-up with any prayer requests, volunteer services, etc. that they might have indicated on their All About Me form. </div>Unknownnoreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2274916056612883414.post-75204825755321257362007-11-14T12:33:00.000-08:002008-11-18T22:05:16.307-08:00Salads<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEggGooY9YWeh7EMvep5spioe34RRNqv5a1OSERXX5kYRUPmTAkpmjU27xUrUs27Gkb4b889Wf_P8Tb7L7fRVm-tXojIE_6mlxCwX3wLDQfbymTRfvAU1Q2BOrsukW1-gHk18RMagqiGOlA/s1600-h/WR610545.JPG"><img id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5132799305182788738" style="FLOAT: left; MARGIN: 0px 10px 10px 0px; CURSOR: hand" alt="" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEggGooY9YWeh7EMvep5spioe34RRNqv5a1OSERXX5kYRUPmTAkpmjU27xUrUs27Gkb4b889Wf_P8Tb7L7fRVm-tXojIE_6mlxCwX3wLDQfbymTRfvAU1Q2BOrsukW1-gHk18RMagqiGOlA/s400/WR610545.JPG" border="0" /></a><br /><div><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhQd1NiBNogMnJOx94qNSEE62ElOfFIpVMqY4oXhbUHhoJTwpMvU6nvXfKsV0fe4GXvT-Csc5Edlba3S8yNUpFf6dQ8MHnGxPdjgHvsDJsB-Qy4nuz4bWWRzyFNUCqGSMRQpKb70sQZ4zI/s1600-h/toss_salad_wooden_bowl_md_clr.gif"></a><strong>Broccoli Tree Salad </strong><br /><div><em>This recipe probably has a proper name, but this is what my mom always calls it. There are several versions of this recipe. I took what I liked from all of them. I also like to serve this in a clear truffle serving dish I bought at Wal-mart.<br /></em><br />Four cups of raw broccoli<br />One pound of bacon, cooked and crumbled (no bacon bits, please!)<br />¼ cup of green onions, chopped<br />½ cup of golden raisins<br />½ cup of sunflower seeds<br />1 cup of mayo<br />½ cup of sugar<br />½ cup of red wine vinegar<br /><br />Just dump everything into a big bowl. Just be sure you mix your mayo, sugar and vinegar in a separate little bowl first and then add later. Stir everything around really good and refrigerate.</div><div></div><div><strong>Chinese Cabbage Salad</strong><br /><em>I could eat this all by itself. I’ve used this recipe for potlucks, leadership meetings, company meals, & and just because</em>.</div><div><br />1 medium head green cabbage (or Napa cabbage)…I use the already pre-cut coleslaw mix</div><div>2 pkg Ramen noodles (though you can get away with one)</div><div>1 cup of nuts (use almonds, sesame seeds, whatever) </div><div>4-5 green onions, </div><div>sliced1 stick butter or margarine </div><div>DRESSING: </div><div>1/2 Cup vegetable oil (try putting a few drops of sesame oil in)</div><div>1/2 Cup sugar - though if you are sugar conscious try other alternatives (like Splenda) or simply use less sugar.</div><div>1 Tbs Soy Sauce </div><div>1/4 Cup vinegar </div><div>I have also been known to put a bit of the ramen noodle seasoning packet in with it….Just taste and see.</div><div><br />Shred cabbage like you would for coleslaw and add sliced green onions. Place in a large bowl. In a large saute pan, melt the butter or margarine. Crumble ramen noodles in the package. Remove packet of seasoning from the noodles and saute noodles with the slivered almonds and sesame seeds until golden brown. Remove from heat and let cool a few minutes and add to cabbage & onions. Whisk oil, sugar, vinegar and soy sauce in a bowl. Toss with cabbage/noodle mix. Make sure you wait to dress it right before serving it.<br /></div></div>Unknownnoreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2274916056612883414.post-19221159737734907372007-11-14T12:08:00.000-08:002008-11-18T22:05:16.419-08:00Party Hardy<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjwcpRNPelgR8gkJv7YtTWpx__7VtA71YwRdNEPwIOsaa4Z8R3dyviVaoPd6mnSFyY-YvHDlCAfjBXlmEczE3oAb98iKH8dhFlgQmBKsBWdkPribCznBUz28jkWEtUH6MI5tnx1aDPdHs4/s1600-h/ccnewyear7.gif"><img id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5132791479752375394" style="FLOAT: left; MARGIN: 0px 10px 10px 0px; CURSOR: hand" alt="" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjwcpRNPelgR8gkJv7YtTWpx__7VtA71YwRdNEPwIOsaa4Z8R3dyviVaoPd6mnSFyY-YvHDlCAfjBXlmEczE3oAb98iKH8dhFlgQmBKsBWdkPribCznBUz28jkWEtUH6MI5tnx1aDPdHs4/s400/ccnewyear7.gif" border="0" /></a> <strong>The Best Ever Cheese Dip</strong><br /><em>My cheese dip is legendary. When we were youth pastors years ago this dip was requested at every occasion. I think it’s the mushroom soup that makes the difference.</em><br /><br />1 pound of green beef or sausage, browned and drained<br />1 pound of velveeta cheese<br />1 can of rotel<br />1 can of cream of mushroom soup<br /><br />Add all the ingredients to a crockpot. Set it on high and stir often. Just keep a watch on it…it will burn if left unattended for too long.<br /><br /><strong>My Salsa Recipe<br /></strong><em>I used to buy salsa at the store. That was a long time ago. I was first introduced by this kind of salsa by a family that attended our church from Venezuela. Oh my goodness! Years later I saw Martha Stewart make a version of it on her show. She seeded her tomatoes…I leave the seeds in. We could eat buckets of this stuff. It’s oh so fresh!<br /></em><br />4-6 tomatoes<br />1 onion<br />2 cloves of garlic<br />salt to taste<br />Juice of one lemon<br />Optional: green or yellow pepper, cilantro and oregano.<br /><br />Chop up your onions and garlic in your food processor (now is the time to chop a pepper if you are so inclined). Empty the food processor (put your onions, etc. into your bowl). Cut up your tomatoes just a bit and add to the food processor…hitting pulse just a few times (you still want them kind of chunky) Add the tomatoes to the bowl. Then add salt, lemon juice and your herbs. Be sure to taste as you go.Unknownnoreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2274916056612883414.post-47231154658156527062007-11-14T12:03:00.000-08:002007-11-14T12:14:12.103-08:00Casseroles<strong>Corn Casserole</strong><br /><em>I have carried this casserole to sooo many church potluck dinners. In fact, I used to have a pretty enamel casserole dish that was specifically for this dish. Not only is it pretty, but it’s delicious as well.</em><br /><br />2 cans of cream-style corn.<br />1 package of Jiffy corn mix<br />2 beaten eggs<br />1 T. of milk<br />½ cup of onions, chopped<br />¼ cup of butter<br />½ pint of sour cream<br />½ cup of cheddar cheese, shredded<br /><br />Saute chopped onions in butter. Mix corn, muffin mix, eggs and milk in a large casserole. Add onions and mix together. Dot with sour cream and add the grated cheese on top. Bake at 325 for 1 hour. This casserole raises so be sure to use a big casserole dish.<br /><strong><br />Another Corn Casserole</strong><br /><em>This is an old family favorite. You can either bake it or put it in your crockpot.<br /></em><br />½ cup of evaporated milk<br />1 large package of cream cheese<br />3 cups of white shoe peg corn (though you can use any cut corn)<br />1 can of chopped green chili peppers (optional, but a nice addition)<br />Cheese, shredded<br /><br />Mix together cream cheese and milk. Ad corn and peppers and mix together. Pour into a casserole dish and top with shredded cheese. Bake in a 350 oven for about 25 minutes.<br /><br /><strong>Broccoli Corn Casserole</strong><br /><em>Yum.</em><br /><br />1 (10 oz.) frozen chopped broccoli<br />1 small onion, chopped<br />8 oz. carton cottage cheese<br />1 ¼ sticks of margarine or butter<br />4 eggs<br /><br />Melt butter and pour into 9X13 pan. Mix other ingredients together and pour over butter. Bake at 375 for 30 minutes or until brown.<br /><br />Broccoli Tree Salad<br />This recipe probably has a proper name, but this is what my mom always calls it. There are several versions of this recipe. I took what I liked from all of them. I also like to serve this in a clear truffle serving dish I bought at Wal-mart.<br /><br />Four cups of raw broccoli<br />One pound of bacon, cooked and crumbled (no bacon bits, please!)<br />¼ cup of green onions, chopped<br />½ cup of golden raisins<br />½ cup of sunflower seeds<br />1 cup of mayo<br />½ cup of sugar<br />½ cup of red wine vinegar<br /><br />Just dump everything into a big bowl. Just be sure you mix your mayo, sugar and vinegar in a separate little bowl first and then add later. Stir everything around really good and refrigerate.Unknownnoreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2274916056612883414.post-12599279312960204932007-11-14T11:45:00.000-08:002008-11-18T22:05:16.559-08:00Breakfast and Brunch Recipes<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj3r_euTEIUbO19dtcg18rYTNVk7rUAgrxj7Cyw1P_GAMUibPDEXxaohYEqMYHEpPepAjmyZLDYGH0smYR9TcrwlxUqSCs8KOgsUnAS2nwF8Uywc6upcI_Z8LnXRRzxCQWw7jlz3bI-SGs/s1600-h/cutecolorsfee1.gif"><img id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5132789091750558802" style="FLOAT: left; MARGIN: 0px 10px 10px 0px; CURSOR: hand" alt="" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj3r_euTEIUbO19dtcg18rYTNVk7rUAgrxj7Cyw1P_GAMUibPDEXxaohYEqMYHEpPepAjmyZLDYGH0smYR9TcrwlxUqSCs8KOgsUnAS2nwF8Uywc6upcI_Z8LnXRRzxCQWw7jlz3bI-SGs/s400/cutecolorsfee1.gif" border="0" /></a> <strong>Country Breakfast Casserole</strong><br /><em>There are plenty of good breakfast casseroles out there. Some might even be simpler, but I like the extra ingredients.<br /></em><br />2 1/2 cups seasoned croutons<br />1 pound of sausage, though I have used ham or bacon<br />4 eggs<br />2 1/4 cups milk<br />1 (10.75 ounce) can condensed cream of mushroom soup<br />1 (10 ounce) package frozen chopped spinach - thawed,<br />drained and squeezed dry..you can add chopped broccoli instead<br />1 (4.5 ounce) can mushrooms, drained and chopped (optional)<br />2 cups of shredded cheese<br /><br />Spread croutons on bottom of greased 9x13 inch baking dish. Cook up whatever meat you decide to use and spread it out over the croutons.<br />In a large bowl, whisk together eggs and milk until well blended. Stir in soup, spinach, mushrooms, cheeses and mustard. Pour egg mixture over sausage and croutons. Refrigerate overnight.<br />The next morning, preheat oven to 325 degrees F<br />Bake in preheated oven for 50 to 55 minutes or until set and lightly browned on top.<br /><br /><strong>Hashbrown Casserole</strong><br /><em>This is a favorite for any occasion. I guarantee they’ll be asking for more!</em><br /><br /><div>1 package of frozen hashbrowns (shredded or diced will work-I prefer the diced.)<br />1 can of cream of chicken soup<br />1 package of shredded cheddar cheese<br />1 small carton of sour cream<br />½ stick of melted margarine or butter<br />½ onion, chopped<br />Topping (optional): crushed cornflakes, ½ stick of melted margarine<br /><br />Saute the onion in the butter. Mix all the ingredients well in a large bowl. Put into a well-greased 9X13 pan. Cover with topping, if desired. Bake at 350 for 1 hour and 15 minutes.<br /><br /><em>Mom’s Biscuits</em><br />This recipe is a family heirloom. This is actually my great-grandmother’s recipe. She was a pastry cook for a fancy hotel way back when. My grandmother also made them, passing down the recipe to mom and from my mom to me. We don’t bother with canned biscuits. These are simple and delicious! You can even make them extra special around the holidays. Use your cookie cutters…stars, pumpkins, hearts…how fun!<br /><br />2 cups of flour<br />1 tsp. salt<br />4 tsp. of baking powder<br />¼ cup of shortening (cooking oil works, too.)<br />1 cup of milk, give or take<br /><br />Sift dry ingredients together. Mix with shortening and milk. Roll out dough on a floured surface and cut out biscuits. Place on ungreased cookie sheet or pie plate and bake at 450 until brown (not too brown-just a little!)<br /><br />You can top these with anything…jelly, sausage gravy, chicken and noodles…anything!</div>Unknownnoreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2274916056612883414.post-40929285038285605032007-11-12T02:17:00.001-08:002008-11-18T22:05:17.022-08:00Tea For You And Me<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhij27UYk9PFwZmhwvfpGkMKdg8VTUY4M-Qbh88yOccyLPRlO3Y9b9gnHJQ88yAngu-R7Oq5mPCkb7Gx5d5KqQWihr3FuoYl3pcRrXiEUUSYS3gmxkI-AnONWqZskcjIgwV4rmAQy4muR0/s1600-h/teashlfplts.jpg"><img id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5132535268319906546" style="DISPLAY: block; MARGIN: 0px auto 10px; CURSOR: hand; TEXT-ALIGN: center" alt="" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhij27UYk9PFwZmhwvfpGkMKdg8VTUY4M-Qbh88yOccyLPRlO3Y9b9gnHJQ88yAngu-R7Oq5mPCkb7Gx5d5KqQWihr3FuoYl3pcRrXiEUUSYS3gmxkI-AnONWqZskcjIgwV4rmAQy4muR0/s400/teashlfplts.jpg" border="0" /></a> Nothing like a tea party to make us all feel pretty special. You can have your tea party any time of the year. We've had Christmas Teas, Harvest Teas, Valentine's Teas. But the most favorite time of year for a tea party is around Mother's Day. Here are some of my ideas (and a few of some other folks) to create a nice Tea party for all ages! We have even used our Tea Party as a fundraiser. For years, my parents (in particular, my dad) were collectors of vintage china, especially, Homer Laughlin china (you might be familiar with their Fiesta Line....which I love...especially the red stuff (hint, hint). They searched flea markets everywhere for inexpensive, yet pretty and unique tea cups and saucers. We charged $10 for each ticket for our tea party and one of the take home favors was a cup and saucer set. It was a big hit! <div><div><br /><div><strong><span style="font-size:130%;"><em>You’re Invited!</em></span></strong></div><div>*Find some very pretty ceramic tea pots or tea cups at the dollar store. Attach a poem to the handle or make teapot or teacup shapes.</div><br /><div>*Or go to one of the following sites and print off tea bag favors. You can include on them the date and time of your tea party. You can purchase a box of herbal tea inexpensively...it makes a nice little treat.</div><div><a href="http://alenkasprintables.com/teabags.shtml">http://alenkasprintables.com/teabags.shtml</a></div><div><a href="http://www.stampin.com/tips/teabag.htm">http://www.stampin.com/tips/teabag.htm</a> This is a plain template</div><div><a href="http://www.jersgirl.com/temps.html">http://www.jersgirl.com/temps.html</a> more plain templates (in fact, lots and lots of templates!)</div><div><a href="http://www.creativeladiesministry.com/mpteabagspg1.htm">http://www.creativeladiesministry.com/mpteabagspg1.htm</a></div><div> </div><div><strong><span style="font-size:130%;"><em>Tea Poems</em></span></strong></div><div>A little cup of friendship </div><div>With a bag of tea </div><div>When you drink this </div><div>Think of love from me. </div><div><em>-source unknown</em><br /></div><div><em><strong>I'm not sure where I got this poem from</strong></em><br />Tea pot is on, the cups are waiting,<br />Favorite chairs anticipating,<br />No matter what I have to do, </div><div>My friend there's always time for you<br /><strong><em><span style="font-size:130%;"></span></em></strong></div><div><strong><em><span style="font-size:130%;">All the Pretties</span></em></strong></div><div><strong>Focal Point:</strong><br />*A small table and set it up for a child’s tea party, complete with stuffed bears and all. </div><div>*A nice idea for the serving table is to lay down a white cloth and spread twinkle lights all around. Then cover the table with tulle (in any color) bunched up here and there. (don't spread it out flat...you want it to look like airy fluff). Arrange your food (be sure it is presented very nicely) around the table and poke flowers and greenery sprigs here and there. I also like to set up a few boxes (hiding under more tablecloth) for a tiered effect. Consider using a few porcelain decorations, etc. I have a Precious Moments figurine that is of two little girls having tea. I like using it.<br /><br /><strong><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg1OR-Une5x8cZ_sbxkkpgeVNPmlxpChiA0LZ62UhkWVGdGf-9CjJCSu9IrJTb1g9ticmqBrQdhKlJsNyLPvz1q7gmGV7DsUA-ep8f8bHa0yThOpxj1OGV-sAIQWrJTftbFS5BeA1W6IDw/s1600-h/teapotwflowrs1.jpg"><img id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5132534589715073762" style="FLOAT: left; MARGIN: 0px 10px 10px 0px; WIDTH: 224px; CURSOR: hand; HEIGHT: 236px" height="181" alt="" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg1OR-Une5x8cZ_sbxkkpgeVNPmlxpChiA0LZ62UhkWVGdGf-9CjJCSu9IrJTb1g9ticmqBrQdhKlJsNyLPvz1q7gmGV7DsUA-ep8f8bHa0yThOpxj1OGV-sAIQWrJTftbFS5BeA1W6IDw/s320/teapotwflowrs1.jpg" width="162" border="0" /></a>The Tables<br /></strong>*First start by gathering up all the stuff you can find. Tea cups and saucers, linens, anything pretty that you can use.<br /><br />*Consider assigning each table a theme. You can do so by color, flower, or my favorite, kind of herbal tea, herb or anything in between. Let’s say you have a yellow table cloth, and a few cups and saucers with yellow on them. Stick some fresh lemons in a dish, add a few daisies and call that table The Lemon Drop or something of that nature. Do the same with all your other tables. I have done this on a number of occasions. It is a lot of fun for all the gals attending your party.<br /></div><br /><br /><div>*Use a mirrored glass (can be purchased at home improvement stores) for a base in the middle of your table…so pretty!<br />Purchase some little girl dress up items. Tiaras, boas, jewelry, etc. and arrange them in the middle of the tables.<br />*Use fresh flowers and candles in simple glass bowls or goblets. I have also used tea cups themselves as candle holders.<br />*Purchase a set of matching teacups w/ saucers and flipped the cup upside down and placed the saucer on top like a pedestal. Use as a place setting or centerpiece with chocolate kisses. *Another cute idea is to purchase some inexpensive porcelain children's tea sets (the dollar store usually has them). Set up your tea set in the middle of a mirrored tile with bits of ribbon roses or chocolates around it. Give away the tea sets as favors or door prizes.<br /></div><div><strong><span style="font-size:130%;"><em>On the Menu</em></span></strong></div><div><em><strong>Here are a few food ideas. I have included a few recipes.</strong> </em><br />Chicken Salad with Croissants*<br />Quiche<br />Cucumber sandwiches without crusts, PBJ cut with flower cookie cutters and deviled ham.<br />Miniature scones served with clotted cream and strawberry jam, and raspberry tarts (cut pre-rolled pie into circles and pressed into mini muffin pans. Filling was raspberry jello mixed with Cool Whip and topped with a raspberry).<br />Fresh Fruit & Dip*<br />Veggies & Dip (display your veggies in a basket and use a hollowed out cabbage to hold your dip. Angel Food Cake<br />Chocolate Covered Strawberries*<br />Strawberry & Spinach Salad<br />Mini Muffins<br />Lemonade or punch<br />Bonnet cookies*<br />Teapot Cake*<br />And of course, an assortment of herbal teas<br /><strong></strong></div><div><strong>Recipes</strong></div><div><strong>Bonnets</strong> -<em> I think I found this at the Pillsbury website.<br /></em>Makes: 16 bonnets<br />1 roll (16.5 oz) Pillsbury® Create 'n Bake® refrigerated sugar cookies<br />16 lemon or orange mini muffins (from bakery)<br />2 cups vanilla creamy ready-to-spread frosting (from two 1-lb containers)<br />Green and red food color<br />Heat oven to 350°F. Cut cookie dough into 1/2-inch slices. On ungreased cookie sheet, place slices 2 inches apart. Bake 12 to 14 minutes or until edges are light golden brown. Cool 2 minutes; remove from cookie sheet to cooling rack.<br />If necessary, remove papers from muffins. Cut 3/4-inch slice from bottom of each muffin to use for bonnet. Reserve muffin tops for snacking. Spread cut side of each muffin bottom with frosting; attach to cookie, frosting side down. Place bonnets on rack over 15x10x1-inch pan.<br />Place 1/2 cup frosting in resealable food storage plastic bag. Add green food color; squeeze bag until well mixed and desired color.<br />Place remaining frosting in microwavable measuring cup. Microwave on High 30 to 40 seconds or until pourable. DO NOT BOIL. Stir in enough red food color for desired pink color. Pour pink frosting over bonnets in circular motion to cover completely. Reheat frosting as necessary to keep it pourable. Let stand 10 minutes or until set.<br />With small spatula, remove bonnets from rack, smoothing edges of frosting. Cut tiny hole in corner of bag with green frosting. Pipe ribbon of frosting for hatband; add bow design. Make dots and flower designs on each hat as desired.</div><br /><div><strong>Beke’s Famous Chicken Salad</strong><br />1/2 cups diced and chilled, cooked chicken meat<br />1 cup chopped apple<br />1 cup sliced, seedless grapes<br />1/2 cup sliced almonds<br />2 tablespoons chopped fresh parsley<br />1 teaspoon salt<br />1 lemon squeezed<br />½ cup mayonnaise<br />½ cup sour cream<br />DIRECTIONS<br />In your food processor give the chicken a quick whirl.<br />Combine meat, celery, grapes, almonds, parsley, salt, and mayonnaise with whipped cream. Chill.</div><br /><div><strong>Chocolate Covered Strawberries</strong><br />INGREDIENTS<br />16 ounces milk chocolate chips<br />2 tablespoons shortening<br />1 pound fresh strawberries with leaves<br />DIRECTIONS<br />Insert toothpicks into the tops of the strawberries. In a double boiler, melt the chocolate and shortening, stirring occasionally until smooth. Holding them by the toothpicks, dip the strawberries into the chocolate mixture. Turn the strawberries upside down and insert the toothpick into Styrofoam for the chocolate to cool</div><div><strong></strong> </div><div><strong>Beke’s Easy Fruit Dip<br /></strong>1 container of marshmallow cream<br />1 package of cream cheese<br />a little dash of cinnamon or mint, if desired<br />Whirl around in your food processor until well blended then chill.</div><br /><div><strong>Recipe link for teapot cake</strong><br /><a href="http://www.brightideas.com/birthdays/themes/teaparty/cakestreats/c_p_1368_1.jsp">http://www.brightideas.com/birthdays/themes/teaparty/cakestreats/c_p_1368_1.jsp</a></div><br /><div><strong><span style="font-size:130%;"><em>Entertainment</em></span></strong></div><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiOT5kyq-GiVW6ghK7fd3p0EksvSwYxdcW92DR0iLN-5F06DZ5rYG0uCV3eQmE_kb_R7XbBBpCQ2akiZWpEmtV-lpa3b9ZkYQI2gPFehv9-YQuUTu2q88KOcFK6SzNoiespLrU7dZMb2Ek/s1600-h/teacupMemoryLane.jpg"><img id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5131909985506118354" style="FLOAT: left; MARGIN: 0px 10px 10px 0px; CURSOR: hand" height="188" alt="" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiOT5kyq-GiVW6ghK7fd3p0EksvSwYxdcW92DR0iLN-5F06DZ5rYG0uCV3eQmE_kb_R7XbBBpCQ2akiZWpEmtV-lpa3b9ZkYQI2gPFehv9-YQuUTu2q88KOcFK6SzNoiespLrU7dZMb2Ek/s400/teacupMemoryLane.jpg" width="203" border="0" /></a>This is a link for a whole bunch of tea party games. There are organized into types/countries/etc. <a href="http://www.child-tea-party-game-ideas.com/tea-party-games.html">http://www.child-tea-party-game-ideas.com/tea-party-games.html</a><br /><div> </div><div>*Have a special speaker.<br /><br />*Play old fashioned Parlor games<br /><br />*Gather a few craft projects together, such as decorating straw hats or scrapbooking<br /><br />*Have a mother/daughter fashion show</div><br /><div>Some of these ideas, plus more at Creative Ladies Ministries website (link at the end of this post)</div><br /><div><strong><span style="font-size:130%;"><em>Favors and Such</em></span></strong> </div><br /><div>*A special tea gift basket.<br />*Individual Tea cups - Sprinkle candy inside of the tea cups. Wrap with cellophane tied up with ribbons or raffia. </div><div>*Other tea items like tea strainers, special herbal tea or cute little tea spoons</div><div>*candy necklaces, jewel ring pops, bead bracelets, hair clips and bands, play tea sets (for the girls)</div><div> </div><div><strong>Tea Cup Refrigerator Magnet</strong></div><div>One year I cut out tea cups out of scrapbook paper and glued them together leaving a pocket open. I wrote <strong>"My Cup Runneth Over"</strong> on them and inserted a folded paper doily and a bag of tea. I then glued a small magnet on the back. Very cute.</div><div><strong></strong> </div><div><strong>Tea Card</strong> - <strong><em>I'm not sure where I found this idea...possibly at a craft website? </em></strong><br />Materials and Supplies<br />Medium Weight Card Stock Paper: 8-1/2" x 11"<br />Envelopes: 4-3/8" x 5-3/4"<br />Steam-a-Seam sticky back<br />Holiday or other fabric of choice: 6" x 3-1/2" for each cup<br />All-purpose glue<br />Tea bags<br />Water-soluble pen<br />All purpose thread or machine embroidery thread<br />90/14 needle<br />Open toe foot<br />Pattern<br />Important Note: These project instructions are specific to the Brother ULT2001, ULT2002D, ULT2003D sewing machines; however, the project can be adapted for use on other machines.<br />1. Cut the 8-1/2" x 11" card stock paper in half.<br />2. Fold each piece in half to form a card.<br />3. Cut out the oval over the cup area (see pattern).<br />4. Cut a piece of card stock to 5-1/4" x 4". This will cover the stitches and form the pocket on the inside of the card. Note: If you do not have a paper cutter, a rotary cutter will cut the paper very evenly.<br />5. Set up the sewing machine for sewing.<br />6. Select the zigzag stitch (1-10) and set the width to 3.0 and the length to 1.0.<br />7. Trace the cup and saucer on Steam-a-Seam sticky back and press it to the fabric.<br />8. Cut out and clip around the cup handle.<br />9. Place the cup on the card.<br />10. Press the cup in place with an iron.<br />11. Draw lines to form a stitch guide for the cup and saucer.<br />12. Starting at the right hand corner of the cup, sew with a zigzag stitch across the top, down the side, and around the right hand corner of the cup.<br />13. Stitch around the upper edge of pocket oval.<br />14. Cut and tie off threads.<br />15. Place needle at the saucer on the left side, stitch around the saucer and cup handle, and then tie off threads.<br />16. Use all-purpose glue to secure the 4-3/8" x 5-3/4" piece of card stock to the back of the card.<br />17. Finally, sign and date your card on the back.<br />Tip: The needle on the zigzag should be half on the fabric and half on the card. When sewing curves, stop with the needle down and turn the card slowly to obtain a smooth look.</div><div> </div><div><strong><span style="font-size:130%;"><em>Other Resources</em></span></strong></div><br /><div>Go to <a href="http://www.annieshomepage.com/teatime.html">http://www.annieshomepage.com/teatime.html</a></div><br /><div>Julia has some great tea party ideas at:<a href="http://www.creativeladiesministry.com/tealinks.html">http://www.creativeladiesministry.com/tealinks.html</a></div><br /><div>Some I might even taken from her over the years! She has a little bit of everything.</div><br /><div>My one of my favorites artists, Mary Englebreit, has a cute tea party coloring page. Here is the link. <a href="http://www.maryengelbreit.com/FreeFromMe/ColoringPages/teawithfriends.PDF">http://www.maryengelbreit.com/FreeFromMe/ColoringPages/teawithfriends.PDF</a></div><br /><div>Here are some more of Mary's Coloring Pages.</div><br /><div><a href="http://www.maryengelbreit.com/FreeFromMe/ColoringPages.aspx">http://www.maryengelbreit.com/FreeFromMe/ColoringPages.aspx</a></div><br /><div><a href="http://teas2dine4.com/">http://teas2dine4.com/</a> lots and lots of tea links</div></div><br /><br /><div><br /><br /><br /></div><br /><br /><div></div></div>Unknownnoreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2274916056612883414.post-87675831401782346992007-11-12T01:12:00.000-08:002008-11-18T22:05:17.201-08:00Frugal Ways to Decorate the Tables for Christmas<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjcDywbBUVUOaOXZDiy2ZX0h6M3LS9542IuqWxjfIIuErKqaGx2QrGWauTDAqRbPR-8Jzm3Ex23GdmJQ89zjj76aBviF0503xmwti198E4SiKUp4aojvAsEZ3F6fiWofvQ2-ZbrZsHMEsk/s1600-h/varia_christmas_candles2.jpg"><img id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5131893849313987250" style="FLOAT: left; MARGIN: 0px 10px 10px 0px; CURSOR: hand" alt="" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjcDywbBUVUOaOXZDiy2ZX0h6M3LS9542IuqWxjfIIuErKqaGx2QrGWauTDAqRbPR-8Jzm3Ex23GdmJQ89zjj76aBviF0503xmwti198E4SiKUp4aojvAsEZ3F6fiWofvQ2-ZbrZsHMEsk/s400/varia_christmas_candles2.jpg" border="0" /></a><br /><div>I know first hand what a struggle it is to do anything of quality in a church with limited funds. Which by the way is a nice way of putting "we're just broke." Since I've always felt (and I have made myself fairly clear about this) that any efforts put into a church function <span class="blsp-spelling-corrected" id="SPELLING_ERROR_0">would</span> be our best, I wasn't <span class="blsp-spelling-corrected" id="SPELLING_ERROR_1">satisfied</span> with a green sprig here and there in between the salt and pepper shakers. Sometimes it takes a few years to come up with enough of a "stash" of stuff to handle any kind of party, but here are some inexpensive ways to decorate your tables for your Christmas dinner or party. You can also check out my "Snowy Evening Decorating Theme." I plan on posting more like it, but this is as far as I've gotten.<br /><br /><strong>The Table Coverings</strong><br />Party stores have a variety of pretty patterned paper (try saying that 5 times fast) table coverings. You can cut them in half and have instant table runners. Or if they have the big white section down the middle, just cut off the <span class="blsp-spelling-corrected" id="SPELLING_ERROR_2">patterned</span> sides as your runner and use the white section for your food table. Just put the "runner" over a solid color and you have a really pretty table to start with.<br /><br />Another favorite idea of mine is to use wrapping paper to cover your tables. There is a lot of pretty paper. You could even use it as table runners also.<br /><br /><strong>1. Angels We Have Heard on High.</strong><br />Make a plea for all of your angel collectors to come together. Have everyone bring in their angel figurines, etc. and group them into little settings at each table. Be sure to mix them up. Don't put all the angels of the same height together, etc. You can surround them with pillow fluff and a few clear <span class="blsp-spelling-error" id="SPELLING_ERROR_3">votives</span> if you wish so that they appear to be floating in the clouds. You could use these "themed" idea for any kind of Christmas collectible. Stars, Snowmen, etc.<br /><br /><strong>2. Into The woods</strong><br />Make Christmas Candle Logs. We did this one year and used them for several years after that in a variety of ways. This takes a little time, but it's really inexpensive. Have someone cut the logs (make sure they are all of <span class="blsp-spelling-corrected" id="SPELLING_ERROR_4">similar</span> size) in half and plane the bottoms so that they lay flat. Then you will need to drill holes along the top (not quite sure what tool you have to use for that...someone else did it for me) for candles. Make them wide enough to hold long tapers. Decorate the top of your logs with pine greenery, <span class="blsp-spelling-corrected" id="SPELLING_ERROR_5">poinsettias</span>, ribbon, etc. You can get some little flowering <span class="blsp-spelling-corrected" id="SPELLING_ERROR_6">poinsettias</span> or other Christmas greenery pretty inexpensively at <span class="blsp-spelling-error" id="SPELLING_ERROR_7">Wal</span>-mart. We used hot glue and a staple gun. We then added our tapers (in whatever color you choose) and wow! Very pretty table decorations.<br /><br /><strong>3. Jars A Plenty</strong><br />One year we were pretty broke and I wanted to create something special and interesting for the tables. So I gathered Mason Jars (both pints and quarts), purchased some inexpensive starlight mints and some <span class="blsp-spelling-error" id="SPELLING_ERROR_8">tealights</span>. We filled the jars (with various amounts) of starlight mints (both green and red) and added the <span class="blsp-spelling-error" id="SPELLING_ERROR_9">tealights</span>. I wrapped the top of the jar with raffia (you could also use that thin star tinsel or fabric). We then took pine cones that we had rescued from the church yard and more old-fashioned Christmas candy and made a <span class="blsp-spelling-error" id="SPELLING_ERROR_10">tablescape</span>. It was really unique and got lots of attention! You could use any kind of Christmas candy you wanted to...gum drops, whatever.<br /><br /><strong>4. A <span class="blsp-spelling-error" id="SPELLING_ERROR_11">little</span> bit of this and that</strong><br />If you are really in a pinch try using a little bit of this and that. Get some sort of clear glass plate or platter (or whatever color scheme you are trying to go with), a few long candle tapers or one big chunky candle, a few pretty <span class="blsp-spelling-corrected" id="SPELLING_ERROR_12">Christmas</span> bulbs and go cut off some greenery from a nearby evergreen bush or tree. Just check for bugs and be sure not to cut too early...you don't want any kindling! Create a little scene inside your plate or <span class="blsp-spelling-corrected" id="SPELLING_ERROR_13">platter</span> with the candles, bulbs and greenery.<br /><br /><strong>5. Christmas Bulbs</strong><br />And speaking of Christmas Bulbs, one year we had an overabundance of rather abused and neglected bulbs left over from our tree trimming party. We just simply spray painted them to freshen them up and filled a variety of large glass candle holders, bowls, etc. with them. We added some of that thin star tinsel garland woven in amongst them. You can also use some silver or gold tinsel itself.<br /><br /><strong>6. Ill<span class="blsp-spelling-error" id="SPELLING_ERROR_14">uminating</span> Luminaries</strong><br />One year after Christmas our local Hobby Lobby store had marked down their merchandise to a whopping 90% off. I spent just a little money on a lot of stuff. Among my treasures were dozens and dozens of those little paper gift bags. These bags were a little <span class="blsp-spelling-corrected" id="SPELLING_ERROR_15">Victorian</span> looking. The next year when it was time to decorate the tables again for the Church Christmas dinner we pulled these out. We spent an afternoon poking a few holes in them and filling them partly with sand. They became a very pretty addition to our Christmas Tables.<br /><br /><strong>7. Wrap It Up</strong><br />As I stated above, I like using Christmas wrapping paper as table covering, either has a runner or the table covering itself. You can take that idea a bit farther and make the table a big present. Just use some wide ribbon and crisscross both the <span class="blsp-spelling-corrected" id="SPELLING_ERROR_16">height</span> and the width of the table...adding a big bow in the center. You could also wrap a variety of boxes (nothing too big) and make a <span class="blsp-spelling-error" id="SPELLING_ERROR_17">tablescape</span> with wrapped presents, curling ribbon and a few <span class="blsp-spelling-error" id="SPELLING_ERROR_18">votives</span>.<br /><br /><strong>8. Hostess with the <span class="blsp-spelling-error" id="SPELLING_ERROR_19">Mostest</span></strong><br />One unique way to decorate your tables is to enlist the ladies (or fellows) of your church to "adopt" a table. They would be in charge of decorating one table. There are so many ways to make this idea extra special. They could add old family Christmas photos, small favors or treats that are their specialty. Now just a warning to the wise...you know your congregation best. We have had some ladies groups that would have eaten this challenge up. Other's would have been a bit put out. You decide if this idea could work for you...and make it completely <span class="blsp-spelling-error" id="SPELLING_ERROR_20">voluntary</span>.<br /><br />Here is a link to Creative Ladies Ministry. Julia has lots of links and ideas. This particular link is for her "Baking Up Christmas" theme and has some cute decorating ideas.<br /><br /><a href="http://www.creativeladiesministry.com/bakingtheme.html">http://www.creativeladiesministry.com/bakingtheme.html</a></div>Unknownnoreply@blogger.com4tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2274916056612883414.post-35523286269063387002007-11-11T15:04:00.000-08:002008-11-18T22:05:17.318-08:00Jesus Loves You Snow Much!<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgifM6Ex_-sSapLzyyMgeAI1o8t9-ZTjWFaZ74Fw2jsB0XnCmn4d_N3JqdB1rTPZpxkXjwN0dAe75MFG6V9QaE39seBZ6Gfuc1PHBc3ItbceoGPYt8fckWmI_WY1a6j8w2jWyI3Dt1i7vY/s1600-h/snow3.gif"><img id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5131738934138587810" style="FLOAT: left; MARGIN: 0px 10px 10px 0px; CURSOR: hand" alt="" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgifM6Ex_-sSapLzyyMgeAI1o8t9-ZTjWFaZ74Fw2jsB0XnCmn4d_N3JqdB1rTPZpxkXjwN0dAe75MFG6V9QaE39seBZ6Gfuc1PHBc3ItbceoGPYt8fckWmI_WY1a6j8w2jWyI3Dt1i7vY/s400/snow3.gif" border="0" /></a><br /><div>One of our family's favorite holiday themes are snowmen. In fact, one of my husband's favorite movies is (shhh! don't tell anybody) "Frosty the Snowman." Why not have a "Jesus Loves You Snow Much" party as an outreach event. You can show Frosty the Snowman if you are so inclined...or just set up a variety of activities...all based on our favorite snowy friend. I apologize once again if I have taken an idea that someone considers an original one. I have had many of these things for several years.</div><br /><div></div><div><strong><span style="font-size:180%;">Books</span></strong></div><br /><div></div><br /><div><span style="color:#000000;"><strong>A Snowman Named Just Bob</strong> by </span><a href="http://www.amazon.com/exec/obidos/search-handle-url/102-1037199-4627303?%5Fencoding=UTF8&search-type=ss&index=books&field-author=Mark%20Kimball%20Moulton"><span style="color:#000000;">Mark Kimball Moulton</span></a><span style="color:#000000;"> (Author), </span><a href="http://www.amazon.com/exec/obidos/search-handle-url/102-1037199-4627303?%5Fencoding=UTF8&search-type=ss&index=books&field-author=Karen%20Hillard%20Crouch"><span style="color:#000000;">Karen Hillard Crouch</span></a><span style="color:#000000;"> (Illustrator)<br /></span><a href="http://www.amazon.com/Snowgirl-Named-Just-Sue/dp/0824951506/ref=sr_1_4/102-1037199-4627303?ie=UTF8&s=books&qid=1194820449&sr=1-4"><span style="color:#000000;"><strong>A Snowgirl Named Just Sue</strong></span></a><span style="color:#000000;"><br />by Mark Kimball Moulton and Karen Hillard Good</span></div><br /><div></div><br /><div><strong><span style="font-size:180%;">Movies</span></strong></div><br /><div></div><br /><div><em>Frosty the Snowman</em> (though there is an appearance by Santa Clause...so be considerate of how others might feel)</div><br /><div></div><br /><div><strong><span style="font-size:180%;">Games</span></strong></div><br /><div></div><br /><div><strong>Ice Breaker Activity:</strong> (Hah! get it?)</div><br /><div>Half fill a milk carton with colored water. Place in the freezer and when partially frozen, drop in various small toys. After this is frozen add another color of water to fill the carton. Again, let it freeze partially and add more toys. This is one of the best Christmas party ideas and the children love to chip and melt the ice to find the hidden treasure. </div><br /><div></div><br /><div><strong>Marshmallow Sculptures</strong><br />Materials: Marshmallows (mini size and large, Toothpicks or pretzels<br />Create sculptures by using toothpicks or pretzels to hold sculpture in place...have someone judge to see who created the best marshmallow sculpture.</div><br /><div></div><br /><div><strong>Frosty the Snowman</strong></div><br /><div>All you need are two teams and two rolls of toilet paper. Appoint one member of each team to be the snowman. Then see which team can wrap their snowman in toilet paper first.</div><br /><div></div><br /><div>Look at my <strong>Christmas Game Ideas blog</strong>. There is a game there for passing the "snowball."</div><br /><div></div><br /><div><strong>Have a snowball throwing contest</strong>. Using marshmallows (or cotton balls for an even more frustrating time) the kids throw "snowballs" to try and hit a premade target. Lot's of posibilities with this!</div><br /><div></div><br /><div>Bite the bullet and visit Oriental Trading. (I've included a link off to the side) They have lots of games, inflates and more. Lots of time saving help, there.</div><br /><div></div><br /><div><strong><span style="font-size:180%;">Crafts </span></strong></div><br /><div></div><br /><div>The following links have lots of snowman craft sites. All are really cute and worth taking a look at. You can also look at my favorite snowman craft in my blog post "<strong>Christmas Craft Party."</strong></div><br /><div></div><br /><div><a href="http://familycrafts.about.com/od/snowpeople/">http://familycrafts.about.com/od/snowpeople/</a> (lots of links)</div><br /><div></div><br /><div><a href="http://www.allfreecrafts.com/christmas/snow-globe.shtml">http://www.allfreecrafts.com/christmas/snow-globe.shtml</a> (snowglobe instructions)<br /><br /><a href="http://www.billybear4kids.com/holidays/christmas/snowball/instr.htm">http://www.billybear4kids.com/holidays/christmas/snowball/instr.htm</a> (more snowglobe instructions)</div><br /><div></div><br /><div><a href="http://jas.familyfun.go.com/arts-and-crafts?page=CraftDisplay&craftid=11298">http://jas.familyfun.go.com/arts-and-crafts?page=CraftDisplay&craftid=11298</a> (snowman hat)</div><br /><div></div><br /><div><a href="http://crayola.com/">http://crayola.com/</a> (printable activities)<br /><br /><a href="http://www.dltk-holidays.com/winter/index.html">http://www.dltk-holidays.com/winter/index.html</a> (crafts, printables and more)<br /><br /><br />Snowman sayings<br /><a href="http://www.craftsayings.com/sayings/snow.shtml">http://www.craftsayings.com/sayings/snow.shtml</a></div><br /><div></div><br /><div><br /><br /><strong>Snowman Bottle:</strong> </div><br /><div>Fill an empty, clear water bottle with white crepe paper or tissue paper. Replace the top. Cut or gouge out a hole in a styrofoam ball so that the top of the bottle will fit snugly inside. Add a little hot glue, then stick the ball onto the bottle. Cut a hat, mouth, and buttons from black felt. Cut a carrot nose from orange felt. Glue these on as well as two "wiggly" eyes onto the styrofoam ball. Cut out a scarf from red or blue felt. Tie around the neck of the bottle and fringe the ends. If desired, add arms made of brown pipecleaners or real twigs. The pipecleaners can either be glued on, or a tiny hole can be punched in each side and the pipecleaners and /or twigs inserted</div><br /><div></div><br /><div><strong><span style="font-size:180%;">Snowman Snacks</span></strong></div><br /><div></div><br /><div><a href="http://jas.familyfun.go.com/recipefinder/display?id=40573">http://jas.familyfun.go.com/recipefinder/display?id=40573</a><br /><br />crunchy snowmen treats<br /><br /><a href="http://jas.familyfun.go.com/recipefinder/display?id=50093">http://jas.familyfun.go.com/recipefinder/display?id=50093</a><br /><br />frosty the cupcake</div><br /><div></div><br /><div><a href="http://jas.familyfun.go.com/recipefinder/display?id=15248">http://jas.familyfun.go.com/recipefinder/display?id=15248</a><br />snowman cake</div><br /><div></div><br /><div><strong>Snowman Rice Crispy Treats</strong></div><br /><div>I took this straight from about.com<br />INGREDIENTS:<br />3 Tbls Butter or Margarine<br />4 cups Miniature Marshmallows<br />1 tsp Vanilla Extract<br />4 cups Crispy Rice Cereal<br />Frosting<br />Decorating Items (listed below)<br />PREPARATION:<br />Melt butter or margarine over low heat in a large saucepan or in the microwave in a large bowl. Add vanilla and marshmallows. Pop back in the microwave for 30 second intervals until marshmallow are melted, stir between each interval.<br />Or, if making it on the stove, keep over low heat, stirring constantly until marshmallows are melted. Bend well.<br />Add the crispy rice cereal and stir until the cereal is coated.<br /><br />Line a large cookie sheet with wax paper. As soon as the marshmallow is cool enough to touch, rub a little margarine or butter on your hands and form the cereal mixture into balls. Work quickly so your rice cereal mixture stays warm.<br /><br />You will need 2 balls for each snowman. Use about 1 cup of the mixture for the body and 3/4 cup for the head balls. Set your larger ball on the wax paper lined cookie sheet. Place the small ball on top of the larger ball. If necessary, use a dab of frosting to help the 2 balls stick together.<br /><br />Now you are ready to decorate your snowman! Use frosting to help some items stick to the rioce cereal balls better. Here are some suggestions for items to use to give your snowman facial features and more.</div><br /><div>Raisins (eyes, nose, mouth, buttons, etc.)<br />Red Hots (eyes, nose, mouth, buttons, etc.)<br />M and M's (eyes, nose, mouth, buttons, etc.)<br />Chocolate Chips (eyes, nose, mouth, buttons, etc.)<br />Tiny Jelly Beans (eyes, nose, mouth, buttons, etc.)<br />Large Gum Drops (hat)<br />Pretzel Sticks (Arms)<br /><br />Let the snowmen set for a few hours.</div><br /><div></div><br /><div><strong>Vanilla Wafer Snowman</strong></div><br /><div>Decorate vanilla wafers with frosting and items above for a tasty and simple snowman treat.</div><br /><div></div><br /><div><strong>Make Snowman Soup</strong></div><br /><div>I have done this a number of times as gifts for teachers, neighbors, etc. </div><br /><div></div><br /><div>The Soup:<br />1 package hot chocolate mix<br />3 Hershey Kisses<br />15 (or so) marshmallows<br />1 candy cane</div><br /><div></div><br /><div>Put all the items above in a mug (decorated with a snowman of course!) Wrap with plastic wrap or cellophane and attach the following poem.</div><br /><div></div><br /><div>The Poem: </div><br /><div></div><br /><div>Was told you've been real good this year </div><br /><div>Always glad to hear it </div><br /><div>With freezing weather drawing near </div><br /><div>You'll need to warm the spirit </div><br /><div>So here's a little Snowman Soup </div><br /><div>Complete with stirring stick </div><br /><div>Add hot water, sip it slow </div><br /><div>It's sure to do the trick!</div><br /><div></div><br /><div>Here is a printable tag to use with this version.</div><br /><div><a href="http://www.countryheartdesigns.com/snowsoup.html">http://www.countryheartdesigns.com/snowsoup.html</a></div><br /><div></div><br /><div></div><br /><div>Here is another version. This is a cute one, because it labels the marshmallows as freeze-dried snowballs.</div><br /><div><a href="http://www.craftsayings.com/projects/seasonal/winter/snowman_soup/index.shtml">http://www.craftsayings.com/projects/seasonal/winter/snowman_soup/index.shtml</a></div><br /><div></div><br /><div>Another poem you can use.</div><br /><div><strong>Snowman Soup</strong> </div><br /><div>When the weather outside is frightful, Snowman Soup can be delightful. May it warm your spirit and your soul. Let it Snow, Let it Snow, Let it Snow! When you feel a chill or 'burrrrrr', Use the peppermint stick to stir. Add hot water and sip it slow. Let it Snow, Let it Snow, Let it Snow. </div><br /><div></div><br /><div><strong>Polar Ice Cap</strong> </div><br /><div>You'll need Blue Kool-Aid (prepare as directed), ginger ale, vanilla ice cream, clear glasses and straws. Refrigerate the Kool-Aid and ginger ale. Fill a glass almost halfway with the blue Kool-Aid. Add ginger ale almost to the top of the glass. Drop in one big snowball (scoop of vanilla ice cream) and let the kids enjoy their "North Pole" drink with a straw!</div><br /><div></div><br /><div><strong><span style="font-size:180%;">Craft Recipes</span></strong></div><br /><div><strong></strong></div><br /><div><strong>Sparkle Snow Paint</strong><br /><br />1/2 cup flour<br />1/2 cup salt<br />1/2 cup water<br /><br />Mix together and put in a squeeze bottle. Squeeze doughy paint out on to black construction paper. Make anything snowy, snowflakes, snowmen, - we made snow covered mountains with the moon and northern lights. Let dry thoroughly and it will sparkle. May also be painted (when dry) and allowed to dry again. This is a great 3 dimensional effect for snow. </div><br /><div></div><br /><div><strong>Snow Paint</strong><br />Make snow to paint on pictures with this easy recipe:<br />Materials<br />1 cup salt<br />1/2 cup flour<br />3/4 cup water<br />large bowl<br />Light blue construction paper<br />paint brushes<br />Mix all the salt, flour and water in the large bowl. Draw a winter scene on the light blue paper. Then paint the snow on top. When it dries you will see the snow</div><br /><div></div><br /><div><strong>Snowdough Snowmen:</strong> Here's a cool recipe for snowdough: Don't eat it!</div><br /><div>1 cup flour, 1/2 cup salt, 1 cup water, 2 Tbs. Veg. Oil, 1 Tbs. Cream of tartar, 1/3 cup silver glitter, 1/4 cup white powdered tempera paint. </div><br /><div>Mix all ingredients together. Cook over medium heat, stirring until ball is formed. Knead dough until cool. Provide bowls with bits of cloth, paper, beads, pipe cleaners, felt, etc. Have the guests sculpt their own snowdough snowman and decorate it. You can also provide snowflake, snowman and other winter cookie cutters for the kids to experiment with</div><br /><div></div><br /><div><strong><span style="font-size:180%;">Links to Cute Snowman Recipes</span></strong></div><br /><div><a href="http://jas.familyfun.go.com/recipefinder/display?id=15248">http://jas.familyfun.go.com/recipefinder/display?id=15248</a> - A cute snowman cake</div><br /><div></div><br /><div><a href="http://jas.familyfun.go.com/recipefinder/display?id=40573">http://jas.familyfun.go.com/recipefinder/display?id=40573</a><span style="color:#000000;"> crunchy snowmen treats<br /></span></div><br /><div><a href="http://jas.familyfun.go.com/recipefinder/display?id=50093">http://jas.familyfun.go.com/recipefinder/display?id=50093</a>frosty the cupcake<br /><br /></div><br /><div><strong><span style="font-size:180%;">Snowy Decorations</span></strong></div><br /><div></div><br /><div>Check out my Snowy Evening Christmas Decorating Theme blog post for decorating ideas. </div><br /><div></div><br /><div>I would create a focal point of some sort. Maybe make a life-sized snowman out of butcher paper, etc. You can make him 3-day by stuffing him with fluff. Put a Christmas tree or two around him and some pillow fluff. Take everyone's picture with your Snowy Friend! Remember to include the caption "Jesus Loves You Snow Much!."</div><br /><div></div><br /><div>Here are directions for making snowman chair covers. Very cute.</div><br /><div><a href="http://jas.familyfun.go.com/arts-and-crafts?page=CraftDisplay&craftid=11264">http://jas.familyfun.go.com/arts-and-crafts?page=CraftDisplay&craftid=11264</a></div><br /><div></div><br /><div><br /><div><a href="http://www.shindigz.com/catalog.cfm?pgp=3W007I&AID=811160&PID=1306671">http://www.shindigz.com/catalog.cfm?pgp=3W007I&AID=811160&PID=1306671</a> this is a link for a snowflake machine! Absolutely the coolest!</div><br /><div></div><br /><div><a href="http://www.shindigz.com/catalog.cfm?cat=16699&AID=811160&PID=1306671">http://www.shindigz.com/catalog.cfm?cat=16699&AID=811160&PID=1306671</a> All sorts of goodies you can purchase to make your party pretty</div></div><br /><div></div><br /><div>You could also use lots of white and pale blue balloons everywhere. And don't forget twinkle lights!</div><br /><div></div><br /><div><strong><span style="font-size:180%;">Other Ideas (and links)</span></strong></div><br /><div></div><br /><div>Make these favor bags</div><br /><div><a href="http://jas.familyfun.go.com/arts-and-crafts?page=CraftDisplay&craftid=11298">http://jas.familyfun.go.com/arts-and-crafts?page=CraftDisplay&craftid=11298</a></div><br /><div></div><br /><div><a href="http://www.creativeladiesministry.com/snowmen.html">http://www.creativeladiesministry.com/snowmen.html</a><br />Creative Ladies Ministry has a Snow Much Fun page with all sorts of links</div><br /><div></div><br /><div><a href="http://www.dcrafts.com/cgsnowmanlinks.htm">http://www.dcrafts.com/cgsnowmanlinks.htm</a> a page with lots of snowman links.</div><br /><div></div><br /><div>Oriental Trading (again...who can live without them?) have lots of snowman products. They even have ornaments..."Jesus Loves You Snow Much." </div><br /><div></div><br /><div>You could purchase snowman novelities for your favor bags or give the snowman soup to each visitor. </div><br /><div></div><br /><div>Be sure to take your visitors picture by your big snowman (or equivilant) and send them a picture as a reminder of their time at your party. Use it to remind them of your church and activities that are coming up.</div><br /><div></div><br /><div>Have fun!</div>Unknownnoreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2274916056612883414.post-83630464779674028732007-11-11T06:26:00.000-08:002011-12-13T03:42:18.404-08:00Christmas Comes to Detroit LouisOne of the funniest plays I ever saw in church at Christmastime is an oldie, but goody. "Christmas Comes to Detroit Louis” by Bobby G. Wood. I first saw it when I was a teenager and had such good memories about it that I choose to direct it several years later when we were youth pastors. We used every age for the cast. We performed it on a Friday and Saturday night and invited the community. We also served hot chocolate and Christmas treats after the performance. It was a wonderful experience! <a href="http://www.histage.com/playdetails.asp?PID=526">Here</a> is the link to Eldrige Plays and Musicals.Unknownnoreply@blogger.com3tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2274916056612883414.post-35183022495310122912007-11-10T18:21:00.000-08:002008-11-18T22:05:17.461-08:00Snowy Evening Christmas Decorating Theme<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgs98w8PyLVCfX6UJ5wamUyC2RjXAlv0f8vjEAsCI2EJudgJHQQaw-eTho5JPj3zP5HCvJTe0PoukEWUTvToDtS61kFvsIdSsEA3saNvSby7AqJhi3WDFVvESGEDN03bb4uP-2aphmazhs/s1600-h/snowypg.jpg"><img id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5131587454937025170" style="DISPLAY: block; MARGIN: 0px auto 10px; CURSOR: hand; TEXT-ALIGN: center" alt="" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgs98w8PyLVCfX6UJ5wamUyC2RjXAlv0f8vjEAsCI2EJudgJHQQaw-eTho5JPj3zP5HCvJTe0PoukEWUTvToDtS61kFvsIdSsEA3saNvSby7AqJhi3WDFVvESGEDN03bb4uP-2aphmazhs/s400/snowypg.jpg" border="0" /></a><br /><div><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEheqBDsghcgdCpPripqAruNk1JPs6IXVWKWLCd-DlERGupysLkuBHhVV9A3Ih03-gMOMUx6q7p7VB4f_uZZPE4SHbehpi2yLss0J4BJmywiTWLcBZvhZA1bvpM3f5kCqppQQX2yDx8k0Wk/s1600-h/snowypg.jpg"></a><br /><br /><div><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgUYngo3ESFD9QjLMJqxHSUVRGCpKLIhgqhjZsskt7yRCQm9GTET5ttubNmzcrghyphenhyphen8yEh2VmlBvG-M6IC17vTijh2E5g203UZW_EGUfFVia_PpdgmZuDKq_pxqzpGdpfrJFSa1PxPLG1G8/s1600-h/snowypg.jpg"></a>I have done a variety of decorating themes for Christmas in our churches, but my all time favorite theme has to be based on the Robert Frost Poem, “Stopping By Woods On A Snowy Evening.” I know it’s not necessarily based on a Bible theme, but there is something about this poem that speaks of better days…of family and faith. But I love it and it has inspired some beautiful Christmases.<br /><br /><strong>Stopping By Woods On A Snowy Evening</strong><br /><em>Whose woods these are I think I know.</em><br /><em>His house is in the village though;</em><br /><em>He will not see me stopping here</em><br /><em>To watch his woods fill up with snow.</em><br /><em>My little horse must think it queer</em><br /><em>To stop without a farmhouse near</em><br /><em>Between the woods and frozen lake</em><br /><em>The darkest evening of the year.</em><br /><em>He gives his harness bells a shake</em><br /><em>To ask if there is some mistake.</em><br /><em>The only other sound's the sweep</em><br /><em>Of easy wind and downy flake.</em><br /><em>The woods are lovely, dark and deep.</em><br /><em>But I have promises to keep,</em><br /><em>And miles to go before I sleep,</em><br /><em>And miles to go before I sleep.<br /></em><br /><strong>The Sanctuary</strong><br />Some folks have issues with Christmas trees in the sanctuary. I am not one of those folks. I don’t want Santa Clause perched up on the stage, but we have had some really lovely trees that <span class="blsp-spelling-error" id="SPELLING_ERROR_0"><span class="blsp-spelling-error" id="SPELLING_ERROR_0">didn</span></span>’t in anyway suggest the secular side of Christmas. With my Snowy Evening Theme I used my forest of small alpine trees…which we <span class="blsp-spelling-error" id="SPELLING_ERROR_1"><span class="blsp-spelling-error" id="SPELLING_ERROR_1">didn</span></span>’t use as Christmas Trees but as an outdoor scene. I got them at Hobby Lobby or <span class="blsp-spelling-error" id="SPELLING_ERROR_2"><span class="blsp-spelling-error" id="SPELLING_ERROR_2">Michaels</span></span> one year using a 50% off coupon I had printed off line. I got bags and bags of pillow fluff, twinkle lights, yards of pine tree garland, and several packages of snowflake ornaments. I lined the baptistery and basically every available edge with first the pine garland (with white twinkle lights woven through), them piles of pillow fluff and a few snowflakes here and there. I also had some sparkly snow glitter I spread around (though be prepared for a mess when you take it down). I set up the trees in a forest-like setting and covered the area around them with more pillow fluff, snowflakes and glitter. I also added bits of fluff to the branches of the trees. Absolutely gorgeous. I was able to utilize the decorations with my Kid’s Christmas Program too. On the communion table I placed the Nativity Scene. I surrounded it with pillow fluff, white <span class="blsp-spelling-error" id="SPELLING_ERROR_3"><span class="blsp-spelling-error" id="SPELLING_ERROR_3">votives</span></span> and more sparkly. Plus I tucked in a few pine tree picks for some color. I created more snowy ledges throughout the sanctuary It was like walking into a Winter Wonderland. I have done this several years at different churches because it is always such a big hit…and fairly inexpensive to do.<br /><br /><div><br /><br /></div><div></div><div><br /><br /></div><div><strong>The Fellowship Hall and Elsewhere</strong><br />I have often carried my Snowy Evening Theme into the fellowship hall and used it for the Church Christmas Party/Dinner or whatever. One of my favorite things to do at Christmas is to use wrapping paper as table covering. It is pretty much the same width across as the church tables everybody has. With the Snowy Evening Theme I found either fairly woodsy paper (pine cones, trees) or some snowflake patterned paper…depending on my mood and the availability of the paper. Down the center of the tables I put my mirrored tiles (staggered) and more pillow fluff. On the mirrored tiles we put clear glass candle holders with white <span class="blsp-spelling-error" id="SPELLING_ERROR_4"><span class="blsp-spelling-error" id="SPELLING_ERROR_4">votives</span></span> and pine tree picks. We also placed snowflakes throughout the pillow fluff. One year instead of snowflakes I used stars. I found some shiny star boxes at a party store (you can get them in any color….gold and silver would be pretty for Christmas) and created whole <span class="blsp-spelling-error" id="SPELLING_ERROR_5"><span class="blsp-spelling-error" id="SPELLING_ERROR_5">tablescapes</span></span> with pillow fluff, these star boxes, some star cutouts also found at the party store and lots of little white <span class="blsp-spelling-error" id="SPELLING_ERROR_6"><span class="blsp-spelling-error" id="SPELLING_ERROR_6">votives</span></span>. You could even insert an angel or two.<br />For a focal point you could create another wooded forest or make a special scene with a park bench, an old fashioned street lamp and more pillow fluff. It would be really special to find an old sleigh (even a few kid’s sleds). </div><div><br /><br /></div><div></div><div>Here is a link for more snowy evening decorating ideas:</div><div><a href="http://www.creativeladiesministry.com/wintertheme.html">http://www.creativeladiesministry.com/wintertheme.html</a><br /><br /></div><div>If you are doing the whole snowy evening thing....considering giving out snowflakes (or stars) this year. Oriental Trading has some really pretty and inexpensive options.<br />I think I’<span class="blsp-spelling-error" id="SPELLING_ERROR_7"><span class="blsp-spelling-error" id="SPELLING_ERROR_7">ve</span></span> covered it. I am going to attempt to add a few more themes later to my blog.. I have several that we have used and really like.</div></div></div>Unknownnoreply@blogger.com6