WEEK SIX: TAKING OFF THE OLD

So, what did we learn in this week's meeting? DO NOT, I REPEAT, DO NOT GO TO WALMART!! (I guess you had to be there...)

We had yet another great time together in week six of our life group. I can really see relationships building and the Holy Spirit moving among our group and I am so grateful to the Lord, and to our church leaders for following the Lord's vision for our church in starting these life groups. If you have not joined one yet, I strongly urge you to! We have plenty of options for all ages and interests - check out the list of groups by CLICKING HERE. For more information you can email or call the church office using the information found by CLICKING HERE.

So, getting back to our awesome 'Tis So Sweet group, here are some pictures from this week's meeting, which was filled with food & fellowship:

Left to right:
Laura "Poppin' Parmesan Potatoes" McInish
Meghan "Succulent Strawberry Pretzel Salad" Handley
Julie "I'm Bringin' Sexy Back" Conn
Melissa "Tasty Turkey Rolls" Loats
Janet "Heavenly Ham Crescents" Posey a.k.a Janet "First-Class Fudge" Posey

Y-U-M. It felt like Thanksgiving dinner at our house. Needless to say, my husband was really excited to sample the leftovers.

This week in our discussion, we looked at Chapter 5: Taking Off the Old. Here are a few highlights (combination of excerpts from Kelly Minter's book and our discussion):

• In order to grow in biblical virtues, we must first go through the process of dying to our old selves. Think of it like a sculptor. A sculptor's perfect masterpiece lies within a block of stone. In order to uncover the desired image, the sculptor must take away the excess in all the right places.
• God works on our hearts in different ways and at different times. Sometimes he gives us a little extra virtue at a moment's notice in a certain situation. But sometimes, it can take an agonizing long time for a virtue to become evident in our lives and in our hearts through the Holy Spirit. Trust that God's timing is perfect.
• The Bible is clear about what ungodly characteristics we should remove from our lives. This is why scripture study, meditation and prayer are so vital to our spiritual health.
• We also need family and friends to hold us accountable for our actions and words. Proverbs 27:6 reminds us that wounds from a friend are much better than kisses from an enemy. That's why I'm so thankful for this group of women. To hold me accountable and encourage me.

We also looked ahead to the list of virtues that we will cover starting next week and discussed which particular ones (not an all inclusive list) that we personally find ourselves struggling with the most: forgiveness, peace, kindness, humility, compassion, patience, and joy.


I would like to make a quick disclaimer before I post the recipes of the week: Some of the photos below are Googled or Pinterested (is that a word? it is now...). I took the pictures so quickly on my phone that some didn't turn out well.

And now...I present...the RECIPES OF THE WEEK!!

PARMESAN POTATOES
Contributed by: Laura McInish

1 stick of butter, melted
Approx. 6 medium potatoes, peeled and cubed
1/4 cup flour
1/2 cup parmesan cheese, grated
Salt & pepper to taste
Paprika for garnish

Pour flour, parmesan cheese, salt & pepper in a large gallon bag and mix. Add potatoes and shake to coat. Pour butter in a 9x13 casserole dish & stir in potatoes. Lay in a single layer and sprinkle paprika over top of potatoes. Bake 1 hour at 350 uncovered.
Approx. 1 hr 30 mins; Serves 8-10


STRAWBERRY PRETZEL SALAD
Contributed by: Meghan Handley

1 - 8 oz can crushed pineapple
2 - 10 oz pkgs frozen strawberries
2 - 3 oz pkgs strawberry gelatin dessert mix
1 - 8 oz container Cool Whip
1 - 8 oz pkg cream cheese
2 cups crushed pretzels
3/4 cup sugar
3 tbsp sugar
3/4 cup melted butter
2 cups boiling water

Preheat oven to 400 degrees. For the crust, mix the pretzels, butter, and 3 tablespoons of sugar. Press this mixture into a 9x13-inch pan and bake for 7 minutes. Set aside and allow to cool. In a mixing bowl, beat together the cream cheese and 3/4 cup of sugar. Fold in the Cool Whip, and spread over the cooled crust. Refrigerate until well chilled. In a small bowl, dissolve the gelatin in the boiling water, and allow to cool slightly. Add the strawberries and pineapple, and pour over the cream cheese mixture. Refrigerate until serving time.
Approx. 45 mins; Serves 8-10


HAM & CHEESE CRESCENT ROLLS
Contributed by: Janet Posey

1 pkg crescent rolls
Lunch meat of your choice (Janet used ham)
Shredded cheese of your choice (Janet used cheddar)

Roll out crescent rolls & place a piece of smoked ham lunch meat on each then sprinkle with grated cheddar cheese. Roll up each crescent roll & place on baking sheet & cook at 350 until done (approx. 12 mins).
Approx. 20 mins; Serves 8-10


PEANUT BUTTER FUDGE
Also contributed by: Janet Posey

2 cups sugar
3 tbsp butter
1 cup pet milk
12 oz peanut butter
1 tsp vanilla flavoring
1 cup miniature marshmallows

In a heavy sauce pan mix sugar, butter, and pet milk. Bring to a boil (stir constantly) let it boil for 5 minutes. Reduce to low heat and add remaining ingredients. Mix well. Pour into a buttered pan. Chill & serve.
Approx. 20 mins; Serves 8-10


TINY TURKEYS
Contributed by: Melissa Loats

Rolls
Mesquite turkey
Provolone cheese
Honey mustard
Horseradish

Mix honey mustard and horseradish together and spread on rolls. Add turkey and cheese and bake until cheese melts.
Approx. 15 mins; Servings vary


TUNA SANDWICHES
Contributed by: Julie Conn

4 - 5 oz cans tuna
3/4 cup mayonnaise
4 slices bread
1 egg
Tomato, sliced (optional)
Lettuce (optional)
Cheese of choice (optional - Julie prefers provolone)
Salt & pepper to taste

Season tuna and shape into patties as you would a hamburger. Spray a non-stick skillet and spoon patties into skillet. Fry on each side for 3-4 minutes. Serve on bread with tomato and cheese. Lettuce optional.
Approx. 25 mins; Serves 6-8


BACON N' SWISS DIP (a.k.a. "Crack" dip)
Contributed by: Mallory Bradley/Bree Anne Maria Consuelos

8 oz cream cheese, softened
1/2 cup mayonnaise
1 1/2 cups shredded swiss cheese
Crumbled Ritz crackers
Crumbled bacon bits (I just bought the pkg that's already cooked and crumbled and it was fine)
Cracker of choice to serve with (I preferred Wheat Thins or Ritz)

Mix well: cream cheese, mayo, swiss cheese, and most of the bacon crumbles (reserve some to put on top) and place in an oven safe dish. Top with crumbled Ritz crackers and reserved bacon crumbles. Bake at 350 for approx. 20 mins (uncovered) or until it starts bubbling/browning.
Approx. 45 mins; Serves 6-8
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I leave you tonight with two things:

1. A picture of Buddy.
Sunday night I told everyone that one of Buddy's little quirks is that sometimes he will "cheek" his food if he doesn't want to eat it and we will find little piles of food randomly around the house. Well, Monday night, I busted him leaving a pile of food in our bedroom.

2. The word of God.

Last Sunday, the sermon was on "rest" and Wednesday night in bible study we talked about the dragon of "busyness" that can consume our lives and damage relationships. It is so easy to let Satan creep into our lives and distract us from what the Lord calls us to do. Often times we get so busy - even doing good things for others or church activities - that we find ourselves falling away from our personal relationship with the Lord. We struggle to squeeze in time for prayer, scripture reading, meditation, and also may miss an opportunity to see the Lord's vision for our lives because we are too busy making our own path.

Tonight, as I write from the peaceful beaches of Gulf Shores, I want to just meditate on this verse:

"He says, 'Be still, and know that I am God;
I will be exalted among the nations,
I will be exalted in the earth.'"

Psalm 46:10

WEEK FIVE: DEARLY LOVED

So far we have had five weeks of Tis So Sweet life group meetings on Sunday nights. Five. You would think that by now I would understand that I should NOT wait until the last minute to review the chapter, make my dish, and clean the house. Yet, every Sunday afternoon around 2:00, you will find me sitting on the couch thinking, "I could probably squeeze a quick nap in before I have to go to the grocery store and clean." Why do I do this to myself? I don't know...but this week I definitely learned my lesson.

I started cleaning the house up around 2:30 when I suddenly noticed that the deadbolt was locked on the front door. Usually this would be no big deal, but my husband was on a boat somewhere on Logan Martin and he had the only key. Panic mode set in. The first thing that popped in my head was "Oh no! This means I'll have to let everyone in through the garage!" If you could only see my garage and how messy it is you would understand the feeling of anxiety that came over me...my face and ears started getting hot, heart racing, palms sweating. I only had 2.5 hours to go to the grocery store, make my dish, finish cleaning the inside of the house, and clean the garage enough to make it somewhat presentable. I immediately got to work. I made the quickest trip to Publix you've ever seen, whipped up my dish, got to work on the house, and as I was scurrying through, vacuuming and feeling as stressed out and overwhelmed as I have been in a while, it all of a sudden hit me.

Who cares?!? God does not care what my house looks like. God loves me for who I am and I am righteous in His sight. Sundays are supposed to be pleasant and enjoyable and I do not want to be in this kind of mood when everyone gets here. So I stopped, gave thanks to God for His unconditional love, asked that He help me put on the virtues of Christ that we have been studying in Colossians, and all of a sudden it hit me like a ton of bricks..."They don't have to come through the garage, they can just come around the back!" DUH!

And just like that, all was well in the Bradley household. I just swept off the back porch, ran the lawn mower over the strip of grass on the side of the house, and unlocked the gate. We had a fabulous time gathering together and fellowshipping with one another this week.

We even had some special guests! Meet Caleb and Camdyn Nichols!

Marian and Rachael hanging out with the twins

(L to R) Laura, Taishira, Jamija, Marian, Janet, and Meghan chatting in the kitchen

(L to R) Taishira & Tamija

(L to R) Laura, Marian, Camdyn, Janet (who is holding Caleb, but you can't see him due to my awful photography skills...sorry!), Rachael, & Meghan

Best friends who, thankfully, look & act just like our moms!

(L to R) Sharon, Meghan, Marian, and me

And of course we also had some yummy recipes this week, which I will get to very shortly.

 

So, going back to my story, I started off our discussion time by fessing up to the way I (embarassingly) acted that afternoon during my panic attack and shared how my virtues were definitely tested. I had officially failed the test, but thankfully didn't let it go too far before realizing that none of it matters in the long run.

Another lady shared a story of how her virtues were tested this week which made me feel better. It's awesome to know that WHEN (not IF) our virtues are tested, we have one another to lean on for encouragement and accountability.

We also talked a little about Chapter 4, which focuses on the "dearly loved" part of Colossians 3:12: "Therefore, as God's chosen people, holy and dearly loved, clothe yourselves with compassion, kindness, humility, gentleness, and patience."

• In this chapter, the author talks about how the "dearly loved" or "beloved" (depending on translation) as it is used here is derived from the Greek verb agapao, meaning "to have a preference for, wish well, regard the welfare of...the love which led Christ, in procuring human salvation, to undergo sufferings and death."
• So now we understand that when God talks about His love for us, it is not to be taken lighly. He doesn't just throw around the word love like we do everyday when we say "Oh I just love those shoes!" No. He dearly loves us. So much so that He sent His only son to come off the throne of Heaven and down to earth to be betrayed, mocked, spat upon, beaten, and crucified. To take the punishment for us. To be the ultimate sacrifice for our sins.
• Sometimes we may not fully understand, in our hearts, God's deep and unconditional love for us. It's okay to ask God to show you. Matthew 7:7-8 says "Ask and it will be given to you; seek and you will find; knock and the door will be opened to you. For everyone who asks receives; the one who seeks finds; and to the one who knocks, the door will be opened."
• When God's love is evident to us, when we are confident in it, it makes us more eager to embody these biblical virtues, to proudly "wear" these Christlike characteristics, because we trust the ways in which God has called us to live.

And now, ladies and gentlemen, I present to you...the recipes of the week!!

ICE CREAM SANDWICH SUNDAE

Contributed by: Laura McInish

1 box of 12 ice cream sandwiches (your flavor of choice)

1 large vanilla cool whip (or regular if you can't find the vanilla)

1 bottle Magic Shell chocolate fudge

1/2 cup chopped pecans, if desired

Lay out the ice cream sandwiches in the bottom of a 9x13 casserole dish. Top sandwiches with cool whip. Drizzle Magic Shell chocolote fudge over top of cool whip. If desired, sprinkle with chopped pecans or other topping of choice. Place in freezer until ready to serve.

Approx. 15 mins; Serves 10-12

BROCCOLI CORNBREAD

Contributed by: Marian Dodson

2 pkgs Jiffy muffin mix

1 - 10 oz pkg broccoli (finely chopped and unthawed)

10 oz low fat cottage cheese

1 small onion, finely chopped

4 eggs (use only 1 yellow & just the whites of the other 3)

1 stick low fat margarine, melted

1 tbsp sugar, optional

Mix all ingredients well and place in a greased 9x13 dish or pan. Bake at 350 for 55-60 minutes. Cool and cut into squares.

Approx. 1.5 hrs; Serves 10-12

BANANA PUDDING

Contributed by: Meghan Handley

8 oz sour cream

8 oz cool whip (thawed)
5 oz vanilla instant pudding
3 cups whole milk
1 package of Nilla wafers
4 peeled and sliced bananas

Mix milk and pudding mix. Stir in sour cream. Fold in cool whip. Layer into bowl: Wafers, Pudding mix, Banana slices. Repeat. Repeat.

Approx. 30 mins; Serves 12-15

DIRTY RICE

Contributed by: Sharon Evans

1 pound hot sausage

14 oz can chicken broth
1/2 cup rice
1 tsp minced onion

Brown sausage in a large skillet, breaking up as you brown. Stir in broth, rice and minced onion. Cover and simmer for 20 minutes.

Approx. 30 mins; Serves 8-10

LADIES' DELIGHT

Contributed by: Janet Posey 

1 lb ground beef

1/2 tsp minced garlic
1 tsp salt
1 tsp sugar
Pepper to taste
2 cans tomato sauce

Brown beef, pour off excess grease. Add garlic, salt, pepper, sugar, and tomato sauce. Cover and simmer about 15 minutes.

5 scallions (spring onions)
1 pkg 8oz egg noodles
1 - 3oz pkg cream cheese
1 - 8oz carton sour cream
Grated cheddar cheese

Cook noodles and drain. Chop part of tops and part of bottoms of scallions finely. Mix onions with cream cheese and sour cream. Grease baking dish lightly. Put layers of noodles, meat sauce, sour cream mixture and grated cheese, ending with grated cheese on top. Usually enough for 2 layers. Bake at 350 for 20 minutes to heat thoroughly & melt cheese. Best mixed the day before then heated through before serving.

Approx. 1.5 hrs; Serves 10-12

BERRIES & CREAM CHEESE MONKEY BREAD

Contributed by: Rachael Nichols

2 - 11 oz pkgs Pillsbury Thin Crust Pizza Dough (22 ounces total)

½ cup strawberries

½ cup blueberries

3 tbsp sugar

1 - 8 oz pkg cream cheese, room temperature

    

Preheat oven to 350 degrees. Spray an 11-inch spring-form pan with cooking spray and set aside.       

Place all berries, cream cheese, and 1 tablespoon of sugar into the bowl of a food processor and process until smooth (about 1 - 2 minutes). Lightly flour a surface, and roll out both pieces of Pillsbury Thin Crust Pizza Dough, side by side. Spread both dough pieces evenly with the cream cheese mixture, leaving a 2-inch border of dough around the cream cheese. Roll up both dough sections into a log -- jelly-roll style. Trim off the ends of each roll to make them neat, and then, cut each roll into 15 1-inch pieces. Place each piece of dough into prepared round or bundt pan, placing them side-by-side in concentric circles until entire pan is filled. Sprinkle dough with remaining 2 tablespoons of sugar and bake for 35 minutes or until bread is lightly golden. Serve immediately.

Approx. 50 mins; Serves 10-12



OREO DIRT CAKE
Contributed by: Mallory Bradley/Chip's grandmother

1 bag of Oreos, crushed
8 oz cream cheese, softened
1/4 cup butter, melted

1 cup powdered sugar

3 cups milk

2 small pkgs instant vanilla pudding mix

1/2 tsp vanilla extract

12 oz Cool Whip, thawed

Mix together all ingredients except Oreos in a large mixing bowl (I actually used my beaters on low and it worked well). Layer cream cheese mix and Oreos in a trifle dish or large bowl. Chill and serve.

Approx. 30 mins; Serves 12-15

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I leave you tonight with two things:

1. A picture of Buddy crashed on the bed after everyone left

2. The word of God. Ephesians 4:29-32 says "Do not let any unwholesome talk come out of your mouths, but only what is helpful for building others up according to their needs, that it may benefit those who listen. And do not grieve the Holy Spirit of God, with whom you were sealed for the day of redemption. Get rid of all bitterness, rage and anger, brawling and slander, along with every form of malice. Be kind and compassionate to one another, forgiving each other, just as in Christ God forgave you."

Lord, help me to dwell on your word this week and in the weeks to come when my virtues are tested. Lord, help me understand your deep love for me. Thank you for the love you have shown this world by sending your Son to die for our sins. And thank you for saving me from an eternity apart from you.

WEEK FOUR: HOLY

**REMINDER: STARTING NEXT WEEK (9/16) WE ARE MOVING UP THE TIME TO 5:00

Did you know that research shows that in America, 1 out of every 6 statements in an average conversation is encouraging versus discouraging? Proverbs 11:25 tells us that "he who refreshes others will himself be refreshed" and that could not prove more true than here in our Tis So Sweet group! I am so thankful to have these sweet ladies encourage me each Sunday and this week was no different.

Joining us this week, we have (left to right):
Melissa, Meghan, Janet, Misty, Julie, Taishira...

And Rachael :)

And, as expected, we had some delightful dishes!!

But before we delve into the yummy recipes of the week, I'd like to highlight a few things that we touched on during our discussion time. This week, we looked at Chapter 3 of Kelly Minter's "The Fitting Room" which highlights the "holy" part of Colossians 3:12 - "Therefore, as God’s chosen people, holy and dearly loved, clothe yourselves with compassion, kindness, humility, gentleness and patience."

• Ephesians 2:8-9 says, "For it is by grace you have been saved, through faith—and this is not from yourselves, it is the gift of God— not by works, so that no one can boast." Aren't we thankful that it is only by God's grace that we are saved? And not by our works? Praise God for that!!
• God's love for us is unconditional. There is nothing we can do to "gain His approval" or become holy enough to make Him love us. He already does.
• We have been made holy in God's eyes through the bloodshed of Jesus Christ. He was the ultimate sacrifice that made us righteous in God's sight. It's by Jesus's actions--His death and resurrection--that we are holy, not by our own actions.
• And since we have been made holy through His sacrifice, we have the privilege of being a light in a dark world. Of living out the virtues mentioned in Colossians. It's not that we have to because we are Christians, but that we get to.
• Sometimes when we are in a situation where our virtues are tested (ex: if we're in a group of people that are gossiping about another person), the best thing to do is just walk away from it. Actions speak louder than words and our choice not to participate in the gossip shows that we do not condone it.
• Are the words that we speak encouraging, uplifting, and reflective of the Holy Spirit that lives inside of us? Remember to THINK before you speak. Ask yourself, "Is what I'm about to say:
• T - True?
• H - Helpful?
• I - Inspiring?
• N - Necessary?
• K - Kind?"

And now, for the part you've all been waiting for...drumroll please...the recipes of the week!

DUMP CAKE
Contributed by: Melissa Loats

2 cans apple pie filling

1 box yellow cake mix
2 sticks butter

In a 9x13 cake pan (ungreased), dump in 2 cans of apple pie filling, then yellow cake mix on top of pie filling. Next, slice butter into parts and place evenly on top of cake mix. Bake on 350 for 50 minutes or longer for desired brownness.
Approx. 1 hour; Serves 10-12

CHEESY CHICKEN DIP

Contributed by: Meghan Handley

2 - 8 oz packages cream cheese

2 - 10 oz cans of chicken

1 - 8 oz ranch dressing

2 cups shredded cheese

Melt cream cheese, ranch and 1 cup shredded cheese until soft and creamy. Shred chicken and add to mix. Pour into baking dish. Lightly cover with remainder of shredded cheese. Bake at 375 for 15 minutes. Serve with pita chips.

Approx. 20 mins; Serves 10-12



TOUCHDOWN TACO DIP
Contributed by: Janet Posey

1 - 16oz can refried beans

8 oz sour cream

8 oz cream cheese

2 tablespoons taco seasoning

2 garlic cloves minced

½ cup grated cheddar cheese

1 medium tomato seeded & diced

1 can ripe olives sliced

2 green onions chopped

Tostitos Scoops (preferred)

Spread can of refried beans in bottom of casserole dish.  Blend together with mixer the sour cream, cream cheese, taco seasoning, & minced garlic.  Spread evenly on top of beans. Top with cheddar cheese, tomatoes, sliced olives, & green onions.  Cook at 350 for 15-20 minutes. Serve with Tostitos scoops.
Approx. 30 mins; Serves 10-12


STRAWBERRY CUPCAKES
Contributed by: Misty Dawn



*Misty gave us 3 choices of frosting (L to R): Lemonade (included in the recipe), cream cheese or chocolate

CUPCAKES:
18.25 oz box white cake mix
3 oz box strawberry gelatin
15 oz (mine was 16 oz and it was fine) package frozen strawberries in sugar syrup, thawed and pureed
4 eggs
1/2 cup vegetable oil
1/4 cup water

FROSTING:
2 sticks butter
3 cups powdered sugar
1/3 cup sweetened lemonade mix (Misty used Country Time)
2-3 Tablespoons water

Preheat oven to 350. Line 24 muffin tins with cupcake liners and set aside. In the bowl of a mixer, stir together cake mix and gelatin powder. Add pureed strawberries, eggs, oil, and water. Beat on low speed until just combined, then increase speed to medium and beat until batter is smooth. Fill cupcake tins about 2/3 full, and bake for about 20 minutes or until tops spring back when lightly touched. Cool on a cooling rack. Make frosting: In the bowl of a mixer, beat butter until smooth. Add powdered sugar and lemonade powder and beat on low until just combined. Add 2 Tablespoons water and increase speed to medium high, beating for about 2 minutes, until fluffy and smooth. If frosting is too thick, add another tablespoon of water. Frost cupcakes, and serve!
Approx. 45 mins; Makes 24 cupcakes


PEACH CREPES
Contributed by: Julie Conn

Pancake mix
Cream cheese, whipped
Powdered sugar
Sugar
Peaches
Cinnamon
**Ingredient measurements according to preference

Make pancakes according to box, but make them thinner than you usually would. Mix whipped cream cheese and powdered sugar together to make filling. Mix peaches, cinnamon, sugar, and whipped cream cheese. Spread filling on crepe, top with peach mixture, roll up. Pour more peach mixture on top and sprinkle with powdered sugar.
Approx. 30 mins; Serves 8-10


CHICKEN PUFFS
Contributed by: Rachael Nichols

*Rachael's note: All these quantities are approximate~I just kind of mix until it tastes right!

2 chicken breasts
2 - 8 oz cans Pillsbury refrigerated crescent rolls
1 small onion, finely chopped
6 oz cream cheese (3/4 of an 8 oz. block), softened
1 tsp salt
1/2 tsp pepper
1 clove garlic, minced
Optional: You may also want to add 1/2 cup sour cream, 1/2 cup shredded cheddar, and anything else that sounds good!

Boil the chicken breasts and shred. Mix all other ingredients except for the crescent rolls. Unroll crescent rolls and divide each of the 16 triangles (8 per can) in half. Place a spoonful of the chicken mixture on each triangle and then fold the sides up to enclose the chicken mixture. Bake at 350 for 10-12 minutes.

 *Additional note: When Rachael serves these as a meal, she does not divide the triangles.  She uses two whole triangles to make one very large puff.
Approx. 30 mins; Makes 16 mini puffs or 8 regular size


REDNECK CAVIAR
Contributed by: Mallory Bradley

1 can black-eyed peas, drained
1 can black beans, drained
1 can diced tomatoes, drained
1 can shoepeg corn, drained
1 - 4 oz can diced jalapenos, drained
1 onion, chopped
1 bell pepper, chopped
1/4 cup Zesty Italian dressing
1 tsp garlic salt
Tostitos Scoops

Mix all ingredients together, chill overnight, and serve with Tostitos Scoops.
Approx. 15 mins; Serves 10-12

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I leave you tonight with two things:

1. A picture of Buddy hoping that a crumb would fall off the food table Sunday night :)

2. The word of God. I would like to go back and revisit the verse that I mentioned in the beginning as I have been trying to meditate on it this week.

Proverbs 11:25 says "...he whoever refreshes others will himself be refreshed." This was the sermon that Brother Bruce preached on and the Lord really spoke to my heart. Have I encouraged someone else this week? My husband, my family, a friend, a coworker? What's my ratio in an average conversation? Is it 1:6?

Lord, please make me more conscious of the words that I speak. In every moment, help me to be quick to listen and slow to speak. Let the words that I say be a reflection of my heart and the Holy Spirit that lives inside me. Thank you for the words you spoke on my heart this week. Help me to dwell on them.

WEEK THREE: CHOSEN

I'm going to admit that I was a little nervous about having 'Tis So Sweet meet on Labor Day weekend. I was afraid no one would show up. I had this nightmare that it would just be me, Buddy, and my BF Meghan sitting around eating a ton of food (which in reality is no different than any other weekend, but you get my point...).

We ended up having a great turnout that of course consisted of delicious dishes and fabulous fellowship. We had some new faces, and a couple of people that we missed and look forward to catching up with next week. I love these ladies so much and feel so blessed to be a part of this group.

I definitely failed in getting pictures of everyone that was there (sorry!), but we had 12 ladies this week, which made for some great discussion time...that obviously happened after we stuffed ourselves with all the great food (refer to sample plate below).



Before I get to the part that I know you all are drooling over (the recipes), I want to briefly share some of the highlights of our discussion time:

• We all desire to be chosen. We long for friendship, love, acceptance. God knows our deepest desires and as we read through Psalm 139 this week, I realized that I am already chosen. I am a sinner, saved by the blood of Jesus that he willingly shed for me on the cross, and chosen by God as His daughter.
• The thought of God's love for His children should not be diminished or shrunken down by our limited human minds. As Rachael put it, she has five children and each time she is about to have another one she thinks, "How can I love another child more than I already love the ones I have?" But somehow, she does. It's like her love multiplies. And God's love for all His children is unfathomable.
• "Before a word is on my tongue you, Lord, know it completely." - Psalm 139:4. Well if that's not a scary thought, I don't know what is. Scary because I can't hide my thoughts from God. My deepest, innermost thoughts that, sometimes, I even try to hide from myself. Yet it is immensely comforting to realize how much my God, my heavenly Father, knows and loves me. He knew me before He formed me, and I cannot flee from Him. When I try to run away from God, He is there. He is always there...waiting for me to come running back to Him when I realize that I'm lost without Him.
• As we continue through "The Fitting Room" and begin to explore each of the virtues in Colossians 3:12, let's make it our prayer to the Lord - everyday - that we allow Him to mold and shape us so that when our virtues are tested (when we really need compassion or kindness), that it would truly come from the inside out. Let's pray that we become less and God becomes more. That we "let go and let God."

And now, for the part you've all been waiting for...THE RECIPES OF THE WEEK!
*Note, again, this will be a mix between real pictures and Googled images due to some of the pictures not doing the recipe real justice.

POTATO CAKES

Contributed by: Rachael Nichols

1 package instant mashed potatoes (or approx. 3-4 cups leftover mashed potatoes per Rachael)

2/3 cup colby jack cheese, grated

1 1/2 cups panko bread crumbs

1 large egg

2 tbsp chives, chopped

Make mashed potatoes according to package. Mix all ingredients in a large bowl. Scoop out portions and form into patties according to your preference (Rachael's were about 1 inch thick and 2 inches across). Place patties in a large, greased skillet on med/high heat. Cook about 3-4 at a time for approx. 1-2 minutes on each side. **If you’re using a pan/skillet with a cover, put the lid on when you’re cooking each side. This will trap the heat and cook the patties all the way around, even on the edges. Serve warm with sour cream and bacon bits.

Approx. 30 mins; Serves 8-10

HEATH BAR FRUIT DIP

Contributed by: Meghan Handley & Audra McCartney

*They both made the same dip. Meghan served with red & green apples; Audra served with strawberries and pineapple. From personal experience, I can tell you that this dip is phenomenal with whatever fruit you choose :)



1 - 8 oz package cream cheese

1/2 cup brown sugar

1/4 cup powdered sugar

1 tsp vanilla

2/3 cup Heath bar crumbles

Mix all ingredients and serve with fruit of choice.

Approx. 10 mins; Serves 8-10


SAUSAGE & CHEESE BISCUITS
Contributed by: Melissa Loats

1 lb. pork sausage

1/2 cup shredded cheddar cheese
1/2 onion, chopped
2 1/4 cup biscuit mix (Bisquick)
1 cup milk

Brown and drain sausage. Place biscuit mix, cheese & onion in large bowl. Mix thoroughly, then add sausage and milk. Mixture should be sticky & moist. Drop by tablespoons onto ungreased cookie sheet. Bake at 400 degrees for 5 to 8 minutes, or until lightly brown. Keep in plastic bag in freezer or refrigerator. Take out as many as needed.
Approx. 25 mins; Serves 10-12

BACON RANCH CHEDDAR PINWHEELS

Contributed by: Misty Dawn

1 - 8 oz package cream cheese

1/2 cup real bacon bits

1/4 cup shredded cheddar cheese

2 tbsp ranch dressing

1 package crescent rolls

Mix first four ingredients well in large bowl. Separate crescents into two rectangles and flatten with rolling pin. Spread cheese mixture onto crescent rolls and roll into two tight rolls. Place in freezer for 15 mins. and then slice into 1/2 inch slices. Bake at 350 for 15 minutes.

Approx. 45 mins; Serves 10-12

MAMA'S MACARONI CASSEROLE

Contributed by: Marian Dodson - a.k.a. My mama :)

1 cup elbow macaroni

1/2 cup chopped onions

1/2 cup chopped bell pepper

1 small jar mushrooms - drained and chopped

1 cup chopped tomatoes

1 stick butter

1 can cream of mushroom or cream of chicken soup (your preference)

1/2 cup shredded cheddar cheese

Boil macaroni approx. 5 mins. Drain, place back in pot and add onion, bell pepper, mushrooms, and tomatoes. Cook over medium heat 15 mins. Remove from heat and mix in butter & soup. Place mixture in a casserole dish, then cover with shredded cheese. Bake at 350 for 1 hour COVERED.

*I put covered in all caps, because one time I made this and did not cover it and it burned on top...whoops!

Approx. 1.5 hours; Serves 10-12

BEAN POT CHOCOLATE CAKE

Contributed by: Sharon Evans

1 cake mix of choice

Eggs

Cooking oil

Water

1 can frosting of choice

Pour cake mix, eggs, oil, and water (as directed on cake mix box) into bean pot (must be a microwaveable pot) and stir until well blended.

*NOTE: In case you're as clueless as I am and have no idea what a "bean pot" is...here you go:

Drop frosting in spoonfuls over top of mixture. Place lid on top and cook in microwave for 9 minutes. Serve warm with ice cream, and be sure to scoop to the bottom of pot when serving to get all of the gooey frosting.

Approx. 15 mins; Serves 10-12

KEY LIME PIE

Contributed by: Jessica Everett

2 Keebler graham cracker pie crusts

9 egg yolks
1/4 cup sugar
1 1/2 cups key lime juice
3 cans sweetened condensed milk

Combine all ingredients, pour into pie crust. Bake at 350 for approx. 20 minutes or until no longer jiggly in the middle. Makes 2 pies, approx 8 slices each. Can use remaining egg whites to make a meringue for the top, but Jessica says her family prefers a whipped topping (she brought Redi-Whip to top the slices with and, from personal experience, it was great!).

Approx. 45 mins; Makes 2 pies (1 pie serves 8-10)

CHICKEN CORN CHOWDER

Contributed by: Mallory Bradley

1 can cream of chicken soup

1 can cream of potato soup

1 1/2 cup milk

1 - 4 oz can chopped green chiles

1 can Mexicorn

2 cups chopped cooked chicken (I prefer 1 package Oscar Meyer Southwest flavored cooked chicken)

2 cups shredded sharp cheddar cheese

Combine all ingredients (except cheese) in large pot and place on medium heat until warm (approx. 20 mins). Remove from heat & add cheese. Stir until melted.

Approx. 25 mins; Serves 6-8

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I leave you tonight with two things:

1. A picture of Buddy from Sunday afternoon. He was waiting by the window for all the ladies from our Tis So Sweet group to come and see him :)

2. The word of God. This week, we looked closely at Psalm 139. Here is one of my favorite excerpts: "Search me, God, and know my heart; test me and know my anxious thoughts. See if there is any offensive way in me, and lead me in the way everlasting." What a powerful prayer to the Lord Almighty. To the God who created the universe, the sun and the planets, the birds and the beasts, yet the same God who knows the number of hairs on my head. To ask Him to search me and test me? Wow.

Lord, I cannot comprehend your deep love for me. I cannot understand your intimate knowledge of me; that you know my innermost thoughts before I even think them...but I accept that you do. I accept that you love me unconditionally. That you have chosen me to be your daughter no matter how many times I fail you. Lord, I thank you for who you are and I thank you for your grace and mercy. I lift this song and prayer up to you: "And on that day when my strength is failing, the end draws near and my time has come, still my soul will sing Your praise unending...ten thousand years and then forevermore. Bless the Lord, O my soul, O my soul, worship His holy name. Sing like never before, O my soul, I'll worship Your holy name."