holidays Archives -

Entering a friend’s room in a care facility, I cheerfully clutched my fresh-picked daffodil bouquet. The sweet lady in bed was not able to go outside and enjoy the magnificence of springtime’s arrival and I was sure my small gift would brighten her drab room.

I was in complete awe as I entered her room; I felt I walked into a spring garden. Residents and staff had decorated each resident’s room with colorful spring posters and pretty flower cut-outs. Streamers of bright ribbons adorned pictures on the walls and bows accented the lamps and such. Not only did spring’s arrival permeated each room, the holiday atmosphere grew as each employee joyfully greeted visitors.

One of the staff told me they celebrate each month with all the vigor they can muster. “Not a one of us, after all, is promised a tomorrow! We simply must do all we can do today to celebrate the goodness of God.” Wow! That profound comment was food for thought!

I recall holidays when we were caring for Mother. We hurriedly put out an appropriate card and flower of some sort as holidays came and went and seasons changed. I may have even decorated a cupcake or two. But, to celebrate each day like this? No, not at all.

The truth is, spring has sprung! Easter is here! We have much to celebrate, not the least of which is A Risen Savior! How better to spread the Good News of New Life than to splash color around your home; at least in the room occupied by the home-bound. Give them and your family something new to gaze upon. Add life and interest to your home.

Celebrate family! Celebrate life!

I pray for you, dear friend, that you find rest when you are weary. I pray you find resources to meet your needs and those in your care. I pray you find courage and hope for the days ahead.

Most of all, I pray as Easter approaches, that you know the Savior that rose from the grave that day and offered His free gift of Eternal Life and Hope to all who would receive it. Happy Easter! Blessings and hugs to each of you.

Thanks for dropping by; leave a note and I’ll answer. Share with friends so they will sign up for my newsletter (box at the top right of the page). You can help me be an encourager to those who need a weekly hug. Blessings.

Winter arrived over night and ushered in another busy holiday season. Caring for our family and others can leave us unprepared to cope with menu changes . A warm bowl of healthy soup could be just what the doctor ordered to help get us through another season.

Knowing we were stretched for time and energy, a friend stopped by this week with a huge pot of freshly made chicken noodle soup. It was so good and so simple, I asked for the recipe to share with you. Beginning with rotisserie chicken and frozen noodles, this dish is easily adapted to individual tastes and dietary needs.

Following the recipe, I will give you some great ideas for the other half of the chicken plus suggestions to add variety to the soup.

Our local store had large rotisserie chickens on sale this week so I purchased several for the freezer. Choose plump, freshly cooked chickens and use or refrigerate right away.

Basic Recipe

½ rotisserie chicken, boned and cubed

16 oz pkg. frozen noodles

1 package frozen mixed vegetables

1 can cream of chicken soup

Add water as needed for extra broth

Add onion flakes, salt, and pepper to taste

Prepare noodles according to package directions. Add additional ingredients and cook slowly until vegetables are soft.

Suggestions: top with grated cheese and oyster crackers; use canned veggies instead of frozen; use dried noodles if preferred; add garlic powder or freshly ground pepper for variety richer taste. The variations are endless with this recipe, a great staple on a cold winter’s day.

Freeze the other half of the chicken if you aren’t going to use it in a couple of days. When ready, heat and serve with a baked potato, salad, and vegetable or fruit for a wholesome meal. Slice leftover chicken for sandwiches. Heat with barbeque sauce and serve with fries for a tasty lunch. Extra broth made from boiling the bones and scraps adds more flavor and nutrition to your soups or casserole dishes.

A personal note: I have found items such as this chicken to be time-savers for me without having to turn to boxed foods or prepared meals. The meat is fresh and can be used in a variety of healthy ways. Let me hear from you; what works for you in your busy kitchen as you care for others?

Hugs,

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