The Beauty of the Seasons

I thank God every year for fall and winter. I believe it’s His way of slowing me down from the hustle and bustle of life. I appreciate the beauty of the leaves changing color, curling up in my favorite chair with a soft blanket and a mug of Hot Cocoa or the very first snowfall that is so enchanting. Darkness falls earlier and the colder air finds me seeking the warmth of my home more often. It is during those moments of stillness and rest that I hear my Father speak the most clearly.

As soon as I see the very first signs of fall this is what I bake:

Orange Pumpkin Bread
2/3 C. shortening
2 2/3 C. sugar
4 eggs
3 1/3 C. flour
2 tsp. baking soda
½ tsp. baking powder
1 ½ tsp. salt
1 tsp. cinnamon
1 tsp. cloves
1 (16oz.) can pumpkin
2/3 C. water
¼ C. orange juice
2 tsp. orange zest

Cream shortening; gradually add sugar. Beat on medium speed. Add eggs, one at a time, beating well after each addition. Add orange zest, juice, and water. Combine flour and next five ingredients. Add to creamed mixture, alternating dry ingredients with pumpkin. Beginning and ending with flour mixture. Spoon batter into two greased and floured 9x5x3 inch loaf pans. Bake at 350 degrees for 1 hour 10 minutes or until toothpick comes out clean.

Nichole Richardson