News

Newsletter – February 2025

By Debbie Sorensen Founder Welcoming Words

Well hello there. The good news is, that welcoming words can be a blessing. In this month of Valentine’s and hearts, I want to consider the benefits of passing a sweet, heartfelt blessing along to others. We just don’t know what a fellow human being may be enduring at any given time. 

A cramp in my neck, reminded me of a situation when I was a freshman in High School. A friend named Gary, had his neck broken in an ordinary football game. He eventually was able to walk and live a new, but different life. Not many weeks later, his father had a catastrophic kidney incident and had to start a kidney dialysis program. Back in the mid 60’s, that was a huge deal. Years later, Gary’s oldest son was in a car accident, which left him paralyzed and in a wheelchair. Community and family came together to support these dear folks through the various trials. Gary’s family persevered and kept on keeping on. Their example of faith and character touched many lives far beyond them. Those special folks became part of the blessing of encouraged living, far beyond what anyone could have imagined.

I pray that we will all look beyond our circumstances and take advantage of the ways we can reach out to those around us who need encouragement. Extend a hand to help and bless others. Most of all, keep those on a difficult journey in prayer. 

Here’s a fun way to start a blessing activity. Try this recipe that friends Britta and Sandi shared with me. Then, pass the blessing on!

Blessing Mix

4 c. Bugles: represent the cornucopia, horn of plenty.

4 c. Small Pretzels: represent arms folded in thanks and prayer.

1 c. Candy Corn:  reminds us that during the first winter, the Pilgrims were allowed only a few kernels of corn per day because food was so scarce. 

½ c. seeds/nuts: are the promise of a future harvest if they are planted and well-tended.

½ c. fruit (dried or snacks): is a reminder of the harvest gifts from the land. 

½ c. M & M’s: for memories of those who have blessed our lives.

6-8 Hershey’s Kiss: a reminder of those family and friends who sweeten our lives.

Mix, and divide into zip-lock bags. Copy and place the above Blessing Mix recipe into the bag. Zip it up. Share freely.

Contact: Debbie Sorensen at [email protected]