Season’s greetings to all.
We hope you are enjoying a good week and embracing the last month of the year.
December is the month with many celebrations. We have things to do, places to go and people to talk to as we grasp the thought of the holiday season. I enjoy the music. Something about Christmas music brings memories of my childhood home, parents and family that we learned to cherish growing up.
I hope you will take time to listen to the words, theme, rhythm and dynamics of the Christmas carols and hymns and feel the spirit and the reason for the season, if you may.
Of course, you will hear at least one Christmas sermon. Other than music, there are Christmas stories, parades, parties, plays, games, social gatherings and other festivities to enjoy. The holiday season is the time to reflect on true joy, peace, hope and love that the coming of the Christ child makes possible for each and every one. Enjoy!
Well, our neighbors are in the holiday spirit, with more decorations and lights brightening the community. Our community will be shining bright in certain places! You just wait or come see!
The Saturday storms and overnight tornadoes in the Southeast made us watchful as they passed on their path damaging, destroying and causing deaths to some individuals and families in middle Tennessee.
The suburban neighborhood in Madison, Tennessee, is about 15 miles from my hometown, Gallatin. There were no fatalities, but my brothers said they (people in Gallatin) were shaken for about 15 minutes as they took cover while all the terrible disturbance was going through.
Lest we forget, let us remember in prayer, thoughts and concerns, those who are experiencing difficult times.
I got out my recipe and made the four pie crusts. I thought of one of the homemakers, Ms. Mary Alice Grant, who appreciated and liked this recipe. It became her favorite, too. Anytime I use this recipe, she comes to mind.
Reggie always asks, “Oh Mother, did you make the pastry? You know we like yours better.” It is fun to make your own pastry when you can. I learned. It’s nice to trim the fluted edge from the bought tin pie crust. You don’t have to worry about a burnt trim, and the pastry makes a smoother and cleaner edge, with or without meringue. Some, of course, don’t eat the top edge anyway.
One or two pies I bake will be pecan, and maybe I will try the mincemeat pie now that it’s been many years since I thought about making one. Not sure who likes minced meat pie. It’s really good, super sweet with beef suet, dried fruit (apple, candied orange/lemon peel), spices, molasses, water and pectin. You should try it for a different or new dessert this year.
You can make your own mixture or buy the mix. I buy a mix and add extra chopped apples. My parents always added chopped apples for a milder taste, or maybe to expand the mixture.
Family, friends, festivities and food seem to be ongoing for more than just Christmas Day. I’m mindful, of course, about diabetic people sticking to a meal plan.
I have always considered my planning with foods comfortable for diabetics. It’s more challenging for the woman if she is diabetic and also responsible for the meal planning.
However, the diabetic person is responsible for what he or she chooses. Here’s a few suggestions:
» Eat close to your usual times to keep blood sugar steady. This is my first rule at home, with my husband in mind. If a meal is served later than normal, eat a small snack and then a little less at dinner.
» It’s OK to eat a sweet treat, but cut back on other carbs (like potato, bread) during meals.
» Don’t skip meals to save up for a feast. It will be that much harder to manage your blood sugar, and you’ll really be hungry and may overeat.
» Sugar needs protein (to eat on), so be careful just eating a piece of pie or cake when you want it. It’s best to eat shortly after a meal or along with a meal that includes protein.
» When blood sugar is low, a sweet drink and peanut butter cracker or peanut butter graham cracker with some milk are good choices.
» Diabetics know that alcohol is to be avoided or maybe limited. It can lower blood sugar and interact with diabetes medications.
Our community sends congratulations as we welcome Mr. and Mrs. Van Brazil to Blue Cane/Mitchell Lake community. Pastor Rickey Garvin, Table of Life Ministry, performed the marriage ceremony for Regina and Van Sunday, Dec. 3. Regina is the daughter of our neighbor and friend, Ms. Rosie Barber Sims. Best wishes!
Enjoy life. Be blessed.
