By Ardis Stenbakken – Loveland, Colorado … A cold winter night is the ideal time to enjoy hearty winter soups, and Melanie Goetz recently demonstrated not only how to prepare two soups, but also how to make a salad and some simple crackers—a complete meal!
Fifty-three men and women, including nine children and eight community members not associated with the church, gathered in the community center of the Campion church on January 28 to learn about these soups, along with the salad and crackers, and to taste them as well. All were invited to attend future events coming to the church.
During the demonstration, giveaways, were followed by a drawing for Habits That Heal books and information was given on where to buy the specialty ingredients locally. Goetz explained the health benefits of the various components used such as the butternut squash and the peanut butter and ginger, along with the benefits of certain kitchen appliances and gadgets.
Another lesson Goetz talked about that she learned from her mother is the importance of serving size in weight control, something even more important than worrying about or counting calories.
Cana (7) and Micahl (5) helped their mom demonstrate making the crackers, just as they enjoy doing at home. Melanie Goetz shared how, as a young person, she “lived in the kitchen,” helping her mom. That is how she learned to cook. She wants her children to know how to cook healthy meals as well. In fact, she recommends that all children learn to cook even if it adds work to the clean-up process. She believes it is worth it.
–Ardis Stenbakken is Campion Church communication director; photo supplied.
