We’ve had some cold rainy days. They’re the kind that go to the bone and chills. We do need the rain because we are behind on the average rainfall.

I had a pleasant surprise on Thursday when Sue Hall called and said Mike was coming to sing for Vera Plasters, my 102-year-old neighbor, and for me to meet them there. I was so excited to go and see Mike, Sue and Hody. Mrs. Plasters was looking pretty and ready for some singing and guitar playing. Mike sang a lot of songs and Vera was clapping her hands and smiling, enjoying them all.

Sue always makes soup when they go out on Thursdays. This time it was her famous potato soup and she had me a bowl. It is so delicious. Thanks for including me.

Mary Ann called from D.C. and told me all the happenings there. That day they were getting ready to pass out food in a bag lunch to the homeless. I wish I could have been there to help do that. On Sunday mornings they have coffee and doughnuts for the homeless. I love to hear her talk about the ministry for the homeless and wish I could be there helping. There’s a lot to do in Patrick.

Pastor Marion came to church on Sunday dressed in his bib overalls. At first, I thought it was “Farmer Brown.” His message was about digging out the well. All of us have a few things we need to dig out of the well and throw in the trash. It was a wheelbarrow full when he was done. It was very good.

It was nice to go to Charles and Gloria Biggs’ home for lunch on Sunday—always good to be with the Martin clan. Thanks for your hospitality.

The church food ministry was so blessed on Monday to get two big boxes of winter socks, thanks to a special lady, and baby socks from The Jesus House. The people really appreciated that. Also, thanks to Pastor Marion for getting pintos, onions and potatoes at Wood’s Produce.

Love and prayers to my neighbor, “Miss Caroline.” I pray you are doing better. Take care my dear friend.

“Miss Claudine” says she really appreciates all the sunshine she can get. It seems that lately there have been a lot of cloudy, rainy days.

I’m sure David Woodall will like the photo this week. He likes the dog photos. So do I.

I was so sorry to hear of Clyde Ratliff’s death. He always visited me at the store, and later at home as long as he was able. My love and heartfelt sympathy go to the family.

What a tragedy, another body found over Lovers’ Leap and that brings so much sadness to the family.

Remember: the recipe for unity isn’t complicated but it takes commitment, perseverance, and love.

Roast beef revival for leftovers: In a skillet, heat hickory smoke barbecue sauce with a little water and brown sugar, then add thin slices of leftover roast beef. Once it’s heated well, serve on buns.

BARBEQUE

LIMA BEANS

2 Tbsp. butter

2 medium onions

2 Tbsp. vinegar

2 Tbsp. brown sugar

2 Tbsp. flour

1 1/2 cups tomato juice

1/2 cup water

Fry onions in butter, add vinegar, sugar and flour. Mix well. Add tomato juice and water. Cook limas 5 to 10 minutes. Add to sauce and bake for 30 minutes. Fry ham cubes with onions if desired.

(From Amish Cooking in Lancaster, Pa.)

Food for thought

The Lord not only hears our prayers but values them, especially when we are humble and sincere.