Sis. Ruth Nichols, wife of VP Rev. Don Nichols, has been a Pastor's wife for over 30 years, and has a true heart for those in Ministry.

You will love her insights as she draws from her many years in pastoral work. 

She is the mother of 3 children, and is also a registered nurse.

                  CHRISTMAS!!!

 

While driving through town with one of my grandchildren the other night, I became overwhelmed with joy as we looked at the lights and the decorations that were beautifully displayed!  I exclaimed to my granddaughter that every light and decoration was truly a celebration of the birth of Jesus.  That may not be the intention of the one who placed the décor, but in reality, if it had not been for the birth of Christ, there would be no Christmas!

    It has been interesting listening in on conversations about Christmas.  One interview was asking children if they knew what Christmas was about.  Most answers included “getting presents”, with about one out of ten mentioning that it was “Jesus’ birthday”.  Some commented that it was a happy time, or a time for love and peace.  When we think of Christmas, it evokes thoughts and memories of family and traditions.  We think of lots of food, spiral hams, sweet potato casserole, trays of cookies, cheese balls, eggnog, homemade fruit cake and pecan pie!  We think of family!  Lots of chattering children, grandchildren and great-grandchildren will be gathering “home”, at Mom’s, to celebrate the special day!  Christmas is a time for making memories and building family ties.

    Christmas time certainly can be hectic and stressful!  There are extra physical stresses causing fatigue, economic difficulties, and seasonal emotional stresses that can cause depression.  The absence of loved ones, family misunderstandings and unfulfilled expectations can add to holiday stress.   These are all very real and can be very painful.  During this season, we need to be sensitive to those who are suffering due to any of these additional stresses.  

    If you are feeling “stressed” due to your own unfulfilled expectations, reach out and touch someone less fortunate and remember the true meaning of this special season of the year…Jesus Christ, the Savior is born!!!!

   Holiday Favorite Recipes

Peanut Clusters – (Nora McNamer, Leah Plemmons great-grandmother’s recipe)

6oz. chocolate chips and 6 oz. butterscotch chips

¼ c. creamy peanut butter

Melt above in a double boiler.

Add 3 c. salted or 2 c. dry roasted peanuts. Drop on waxed paper.

(I use all chocolate chips and melt very briefly in the microwave.)

Pecan Pie – (our family favorite-recipe from Karo Syrup bottle)

1 c. Karo Light Corn Syrup

3 eggs

1 c. sugar

2 Tbsp. butter, melted

1 tsp. vanilla extract

1-1/2 c. pecan, 6 oz.  ( I use halves)

1 unbaked pie crust

Whisk eggs then add corn syrup, sugar, cooled butter and vanilla extract.  Mix in pecans, making sure they are well coated, and pour into pie shell.  Bake at 350 degrees for 60-70 minutes.  Cool 2 hours before serving. 

Ham Loaf (Cheryl Barnt, Lima PHC Missionary President)

2 lbs, fresh pork

2 lbs. smoked ham (pork and ham need to be ground together)

2 c. crushed graham crackers

½ c. milk

2 eggs

Mix all ingredients above well.  Shape into 2 loaves and bake at 325 for ½ hr.  Pour off any grease.  Pour sauce over loaves and bake at 350 for another 40 minutes.

Sauce for ham loaf:

1 c. ketchup

1 c. brown sugar

¼ c. vinegar

¼ c. water

1 Tbsp. mustard

Quick and Easy Cheese Ball

2 – 8 oz. packages cream cheese softened

1 – 1 oz. pkg. ranch dressing mix

2 ½ cups shredded Cheddar cheese (may substitute Colby or Monterey Jack)

1 ½ c. chopped pecans (may substitute bacon bits or pistachios)

Mix softened cream cheese with dressing mix and Cheddar cheese.  Shape into ball and roll in pecans.  Cover and refrigerate until read to serve.  Serve with vegetable or wheat crackers. 

Blessings to each of you this Christmas!

Ruth Nichols

December, 2012