Here it is the middle of November. Time is passing and winter is coming upon us. The leaves are still pretty here but coming down fast.

The Veterans’  Day parade was really nice with the Patrick County High School Band and JROTC. Several veterans were riding in antique cars and trucks. It was very good, weather wise and beautiful sunshine. It always brings tears to my eyes.

I was so sorry to hear of the death of Fred Smart. I always loved to see him and his wife Nancy when they came to All Seasons  when I worked there. Heartfelt sympathy and prayers go out to the family.

Jerry and Rhonda Morgan came for a short visit the other Friday. They thought I lived way out in the boondocks but I told them all about my good neighbors here on Old Mill Road and I’m close to everything. Jerry had picked me out three snowman vests.

“Miss Claudine” Wood enjoyed a visit from Gary Wood and they had a good time talking.

Everyone at the soup kitchen was all excited on Tuesday when I went to pick up my clients’ soup. They were planning their Thanksgiving meal that’s to be delivered next week. Everyone loved the good vegetable soup they made with all fresh veggies from their garden. They froze a lot of them.

My sweet little neighbor, Vera Plasters, turned 102 years old on November 15. She has a great sense of humor. It makes my day when I see her every week. I love you very much, my dear lady and God bless.

It was so good to see Pastor Barry McGhee again. He can keep you laughing. We don’t laugh enough these days. It was the most people laughing I ever saw.

Thanks to all the nice people who brought an abundance of canned goods, cereals, mixes and cooking to the food ministry on Wednesday. It really came at a good time.

Iva Jane Hubbard on the Mountain View Road, Meadows of Dan, really made Miss Claudine Wood happy when she visited.

Thanks to the men’s ministry at church for the delicious meal on Wednesday night. It’s always my favorite – chicken patty, mashed potatoes, roll and some delicious cooked apples. I appreciate all of you very much.

Pumpkin pie hint – Nutella Chocolate Chip Pie: spread 1/4 cup Nutella over bottom of pie shell. Then sprinkle with 1/4 cup mini chocolate chips. Top with filling. Bake as directed 1 hour 10 minutes or until set.

BEST EVER PUMPKIN PIE

Half of 11 oz. pkg. pie crust mix

1 can (15 oz.) pumpkin

1 can (12 oz.) evaporated milk

2 eggs

1/2 cup granulated sugar

1/4 cup packed light brown sugar

2 tsp. grated peeled ginger

1 tsp. ground cinnamon

1/4 tsp. nutmeg

Preheat oven to 375 degrees. Coat 9-inch pie pan with cooking spray. Prepare pie crust, mix according to directions for 1 crust. On floured surface, roll out dough into 12 inches around. Fit into pan, trim and flute edge. Chill for 30 minutes.

In a large bowl, whisk together pumpkin, evaporated milk, eggs, sugars and the spices. Pour into crust. Bake on hot baking sheet for one hour or until center is set. Cool. Makes 8 servings.

Food for thought: Better a stormy day with the Lord than a sunny one far from him.