God delights in blessing us with unexpected gifts. Gifts that always seem to come at the perfect time. An encouraging email from a friend, an extra long hug from your spouse, just enough ice cream left in the freezer to satisfy a craving... So it should be no surprise that I received one today.
To use the cliche, "in these tough economic times," Eric and I are finding ourselves cutting back on more and more things. Eric being in the new construction field and everyone knowing that business is not booming can understand our situation. Long gone are the trips to restaurants, the trips to Target and the "trips" in general. Though we are thankful God has continued to provide Eric with a job the financial stresses are still obvious. God continues to take care of us but today He gave us a little extra.
As we all joke, "well, I hope there's a check in the mail" I thought just that this morning as I decided to check our mail a little early. I went to the box and pulled out what appeared to be a bunch of junk mail. Unexcited about the mail I tossed it on the counter then noticed a small blue envelope had fallen out. I picked the envelope up and turned it over to see the tell-tale sign of a letter from my mom; My name and address printed on the envelope by a typewriter. I open the card and found a simple note from her along with a "gift" in the form of a check. No real reason, just a prompting by God for her to bless her daughter with an unexpected gift.
The tears fell (been doing a lot of that lately...) then the ugly cry began. My mom had no idea what a blessing she had just been to me and my family. Here was an opportunity for the extras. The extra help with groceries, with gas or for a much needed night out and alone with my husband. Thank you Lord for blessing me through my mother and thank you mom for obeying God's prompting. I love you.
A recipe that won't wipe out your time or bank account is what's for dinner tonight: Creamy Crock Pot Chicken with shells and broccoli.
Creamy Crock Pot Chicken with Macaroni Shells
4-6 boneless, skinless chicken breasts
2 tbsp dry Italian salad dressing mix (save the rest for next time)
4 tbsp butter, melted
6 oz cream cheese, cubed
1 small onion, chopped
1 can cream of mushroom soup
1/2 cup water
8 oz macaroni shells
Place chicken, Italian dressing mix and melted butter in crock pot and cook over low heat for 6 hours. About 30 minutes before chicken is done, mix soup, cream cheese, water and onion in a saucepan and cook over medium heat until smooth. Pour over chicken in crock pot. Cover and continue to cook while pasta is prepared according to package directions. Serve chicken mixture over shells (or rice if preferred) with steamed broccoli and fresh fruit. Enjoy.
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