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Biblical Activities and Coloring Pages Book 2 is here!

Amazing biblical activities and coloring pages are better than ever in Patches’ Book II, Farmland Adventures!

For instance, contributing artists include a child seven years old. Also, a 22yr old college guy, and a retired teacher (not saying her age!)

Therefore, you can consider Patches’ Farmland Adventures for all ages. There is something to challenge thinking and encourage talents.

Farmland Adventures is packed with adventures. Jesus comes alive in the pages as Patches the turtle “talks” about each drawing or puzzle. Plus, there are added puzzles, never before seen!

It has been exciting to receive entries to the contest for this book. I am amazed at the talent of the very youngest artists. In fact, as I write this column, I am preparing to go visit a set of 8 year old twins who entered the contest. You will want to check out their drawings in the book.

Also, exciting to me, is taking on the role of Patches as I write little stories about each drawing or puzzle. I’m beginning to feel like Patches the Turtle as I comment on the book!

Here’s the really fun part. Patches has already told me (well, maybe I told Patches) about book III. Seriously! Book III will be on Friendships … wow! So, click here to get book one and book two so you’ll be really acquainted with Patches.

Serving Jesus with our talents is always fun. It’s also challenging and inspiring at the same time. The absolute goal for Patches and for me is to make Jesus known. Jesus is REAL! He wants to live in the hearts of every boy and girl. I am praying to that end as I serve Him with the talents and abilities He has entrusted me with.

I will be looking forward to hearing from you. Let me know your favorite drawing or puzzle.

Hugs,

Finding Your Passion Can Change Your Life

Finding your passion can seriously change your life. What drives you? What keeps you going when life throws curves?

We have developed some great friendships in our community and in the churches we have served for nearly 20 years. We continue to be amazed at what we still learn about those we’ve grown to love.

Recently, we were invited to Ron and Diana’s home after church to view some beautiful paintings. Of course, we were also there to enjoy a delicious home-cooked meal, complete with a carry-out bag for later!

Through the years, we’ve watched as Brother Ron had to give up his work, much of his driving, and many of his outside activities. Often his memory fails him. And yet, we have watched him stay at peace with himself and the world. At times I personally questioned how he could lose so much and yet be such a positive influence on others.

His wife explained, concerning his paintings, that she is continually on the lookout for anything large enough to put a brush to. Pictured above are a few of his paintings on old saws that adorn the outside of their home.

Inside, Ron proudly showed us his very own “man cave,” well-equipped with an assortment of brushes, trowels, paints, etc. Their walls are a virtual art gallery, displaying beautiful paintings of every size and subject.

Since each visitor is encouraged to choose a painting to take home, we each chose one which he readily autographed for us.

We never knew he had a passion for painting. He can get in his room and create to his heart’s content. Just him and his Heavenly Father communing for hours as he works. He is at peace with His Lord and with himself. He spreads joy with his endearing smile and thoughtful words.

I have to ask you? Do you know what your passion is? What is it that fulfills the God-given urges inside you? What brings you peace in the midst of your storms?

What is it that you really would like to do if you had the time? I suggest you make the time … just a little now and then and stir up that passion. It will bring a smile to your heart and spread out into a hungry world.

Hugs,

One of my passions is sketching, which I’ve not done of late. Patches Book II is finished; soon to be shipped! It will feature THREE of my sketches. Praise the Lord for His goodness to this old gal!

Fresh Summer Salsa Ideas and Recipes

Pineapple filled with Fruit Salsa ready for Cinnamon Pita Chips

The Spanish word for any sauce is Salsa. We typically think of tomato salsa or picante with chips.

But wait! There is a new group of salsas on the horizon. Let’s explore some fresh summer salsa ideas and recipes made with fresh garden produce; dips to main dishes.

Most are low in calories, little or no fat, and loaded with minerals and vitamins; ready for mealtime or snacks, the variety is endless.

Enjoy more fresh foods with your family. Don’t miss the links with recipes for 22 fresh fruit and veggie salsas and more! You won’t believe what they call salsa.

Vegetable ideas: bell peppers-any color-seeded, radishes, red cabbage (cut small), purple onion, zucchini, roasted corn (off the cob), green peas, Roma tomatoes-seeded. Hint: cut all veggies small. Score cucumbers with fork, cut in half lengthwise, spoon out seeds and pulp, cut into strips, chop.

Fruits: any meaty fruit such as cantaloupe, honey dew melon, mango, peaches, apples, fresh pineapple, avocado, berries, grapes.

Liquids: olive oil, vinegar (red wine or apple cider), concentrated orange juice, lemon or lime juice (and zest).

Seasonings: finely chopped fresh herbs such as cilantro, parsley, basil; ranch or other pkg. seasonings to taste. Need help choosing herbs and seasonings? Click here.

Add protein to veggie salsa for main dish: black, garbanzo or red kidney beans (rinse and drain), nuts, crumbled bacon, grilled chicken, shredded smoked beef or pork.

For black bean/avacado salsa, mango salsa, dill pickle salsa, watermelon salsa, and dozens more to tantalize your taste buds, click here.

If that’s not enough, here is more! Click here for 22 more fresh fruit and veggie salsas. Prepare to be amazed!

Happy eating!

Hugs,

Please let me hear your favorite recipes.