A Lasagna Of Love 7/6/2021

 Good Morning,

The old coffee maker might be on it's last leg. It took a little longer for my Door County Peanut Butter Crunch Coffee to brew. But finally a cup has come forth and it is time to write. 

I had a surgical procedure performed 8 days ago and it is taking it's sweet time to heal. I would have to say that this one has slowed me down more than I thought it would. I am getting better day by day , but not fast enough for me. My mind looks at a chore and says you can do this and my body is arguing with my mind saying oh no you can't .

This past week we have been gifted with desserts, ham, and last night we dined on a pan of lasagna. All of these were given to us by people we love and who love us in return. We are doing fine and this is not a plea for assistance. It is a statement of thanks to God for good friends, who are faithful to God and follow His word and are an example of God's love sent in human form.

James 2 14-17 What does it profit my brethren, if someone says he has faith but does not have works? Can faith save him? 15. If a brother or sister is naked and is destitute of daily food, 16. and one of you says to them, "depart in peace, be warmed and filled," but you do not give them the thing which are need for the body, what does it profit? Thus also faith by itself, if it does not have works is dead. 

This is however a challenge to all to celebrate Christmas in July. Think about the Christmas cards sent out, the change you dropped into the red bucket, the old people you visited and sang to at Christmas. Many restrictions have been lifted now and I witnessed crowded parks and streets for the Fourth of July. There are still lonely people, hurting people, disabled people and some who could use a pot of soup, a pan of lasagna, an ice cream cone all year round. A card sent out with some kind words of encouragement is a nice way to say we love you. 

I saw God at work this week and it came in the form of people, extending blessings to us. Friends, we are fine and managing quite well. But I am thankful for what God sent. 

Love to all. Keep your faith fired up. 

Marty

Bruschetta 

In July?

Ingredients

FOR THE TOMATOES

4 tbsp. extra-virgin olive oil

2 cloves garlic, thinly sliced

4 large tomatoes, diced

1/4 c. thinly sliced basil

2 tbsp. balsamic vinegar 

1 tsp. salt

Pinch of crushed red pepper flakes

FOR THE BREAD

1 large baguette, sliced ¼" thick on the bias

Extra-virgin olive oil, for brushing

2 cloves garlic, halved

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DIRECTIONS

1. Make marinated tomatoes: In a medium skillet over medium-low heat, heat oil. Add garlic and cook until lightly golden, 2 to 4 minutes, then remove from heat and let cool.
2. In a large bowl, toss together tomatoes, basil, vinegar, salt, and red pepper flakes. Add garlic and oil from skillet and toss to combine. Let marinate for at least 30 minutes.
3. Meanwhile, toast bread: Preheat oven to 400°. Brush bread on both sides lightly with oil and place on large baking sheet. Toast bread until golden, 10 to 15 minutes, turning halfway through. Let bread cool for 5 minutes, then rub tops of bread with halved garlic cloves.
4. Spoon tomatoes on top of bread just before serving.