Tip of the Day 6/15/12

99 Days of Summer: Ice Cream is one of the greatest food groups. Yes, some of us consider it a food group. I personally believe all ice cream should contain nuts. Every one has their personal favorites. Ice cream parlors are always coming up with new flavor combinations. Last summer we took a couple of our grandchildren to a yogurt shop where you pay by the ounce. You start out by putting in the flavors of yogurt you want then add all the toppings you want to try from huge dispensers. When the kids were finished building their bowls they had almost $20 worth of yogurt and toppings. Ice cream sundae bars are the perfect summer dinner, in my opinion. It can be healthy, sort of, and still be a blast. Set up a table filled with as many toppings as you can come up with. Be creative, not just the usual sprinkles, syrups, and nuts. Try some fresh herbs and fruits, cereal, pretzels, etc. Healthy cookies and cakes make a great base and stick with just Real vanilla ice cream to build on. Your kids will love you for this "dinner." This is a also a fun "dinner" party for adults.

Word for Today, Secrets: One of my favorite childhood books is, "The Secret Language." It is the story of two young girls in a boarding school who come up with their own language to communicate with each other because they feel left out. My friend, Sharlene, and I tried to come up with our own because it was like a special bond between us. We all have friends that we can communicate with in special ways. As parents we can understand the babbling of our children and spouses can communicate without even speaking. Often I have heard people say, "I have tried to read the Bible, but can't understand it." We are told that God spoke to us "in Son." This is like a secret language if you don't know His Son. "The secret of the Lord is with those who fear (know) Him." Jesus said, "I call you friends." If we acknowledge Jesus as our Savior we are His friend and will understand all He says to us. It will no longer be a "Secret Language."