The weekend is coming to a close, and a regular week will begin.  I hope everyone has had a good time, good rest, good time with family and friends.

I am looking forward to going to church this morning.  My Pastor and his family went to W. Va. for the holiday, and he will come back with lots to tell.  He is originally from there and had never lived anywhere else until he was called to our church.  We love him and his family and feel God sent them to us at just the right time.  His sister and her family have just moved here, and they are hoping they can get their parents to move as well.


I will begin my Christmas shopping - online mind you, tomorrow, and since I don't have that much to buy any more, it wont be difficult.  I already have gifts for 2 people bought and here.  The adults in our family buy one $20.00 unisex gift.  We play the chinese exchange, draw numbers and you can take a gift with that number on it, or take a gift away from someone that has already got one, if you want it instead!  Jim and I buy something small for each child.  That's it!



If you are tired of leftovers, here is a really good crock pot soup recipe for the cold days to come.

Crock pot Potato Soup

Ingredients:

1 (30 oz.) bag frozen hash-brown potatoes (I use the squared, southern style)

2 (14 oz.) cans chicken broth

1 (10.75 oz.) can cream of chicken soup

1/2c chopped onion

1/3 tsp. ground black pepper

1 (8oz) package cream cheese (softened)

Garnish: minced green onion

Directions:

1. In a slow cooker, combine potatoes, broth, soup, onion, and pepper. 

2. Cover, and cook on low for 5 hours.

3. Stir in cream cheese, cook 30 minutes, stirring occasionally, until combined. 

4. Garnish with green onion, or shredded cheese, chives, bacon bits, sour cream, etc. Then serve with crackers or bread. 

This is probably my favorite Christmas song among the newer ones.  I love all the oldies, but this always touches my heart.  I dont know why, but it brings a tear to my eyes...every time I hear it.  Hope you enjoy too!