Cookies Without Sugar; Preparing for Lent

Cookies Without Sugar; Preparing for Lent

Wednesday, February 11, 2026

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Image: Healthy Oatmeal Cookies from The Big Man's World; accessed 10 February 2026

COOKIES WITHOUT SUGAR; PREPARING FOR LENT

     Before I continue with today's post, let me share the link for this recipe. The cookies look so delicious, and you probably have everything in your pantry right now. The cook recommends old fashioned rolled oats, rather than quick cooking oats, but these are easy to find in regular groceries if you check the labels. The recipe does not use refined sugar, eggs, or milk so it is good for people with allergies to those items. It does use peanut butter, so if nut allergies are a concern, sunflower butter can be used. Here's the link:

Big Man's Healthy Oatmeal Cookies

Baked Oatmeal can also be made without refined sugar. Banana Baked Oatmeal 2/21/24

     Next week Lent will begin on Ash Wednesday. More traditional Christian denominations usually observe this season before Easter with some form of reflection on the sacrifice Jesus made to redeem us from our sins. Fasting, that is limiting food, can be a part of this practice. Some people avoid sweets or other pleasures. Although my church fellowship is non-denominational, since at least 2021 our leadership has encouraged some observance, possibly fasting, that will increase our time of prayer and focus on our relationship with Christ. In 2021, I decided that rather than to not do something (that is, not eat a meal or avoid sweets, etc) I would do something extra. At that time, my husband Mike had been on hospice status for a little over 2 years. For one hour daily, I spent time writing short devotionals related to chronic illness and care giving. Those essays were eventually developed into the content for the blog posts when A Map Through The Valley was launched in fall 2023.

     Lent culminates in the Passion Week, the week that begins on Palm Sunday and extends through Good Friday and Easter Sunday. On Good Friday, many churches will have a special service that focuses on the Seven Words spoken by Jesus from the cross. During this season of Lent, it is my goal for the weekly blog posts to highlight the seven words spoken by others to Jesus on the cross. I am just beginning to write the essays, and it is quite a challenge. The Elders of my church will review what I am writing, so that I remain true to the Word. I hope these posts will provide encouragement as well as food for thought.

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Love Languages

Love Languages

Wednesday, February 4, 2026

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Image: Book Cover The 5 Love Languages by Gary Chapman 

Love Languages by Gail K. Kachnycz 3 February 2026

     February has arrived! In our culture, there is an emphasis on Valentine's Day, promoting everything from packs of cards for school age friends to romantic get-aways for couples. Although gift giving is one of the methods of expressing love, there are other ways that do not require a purchase. I took the survey in this book by Gary Chapman and learned that my love languages are gifts of service and words of affirmation. Do you know what your love languages are? I found it very helpful to know. In the context of caregiving, knowing the love language for your loved one can really help him or her feel cared for. There may need to be some adjustments. For example, if your loved one's language is physical touch, but the chronic illness is causing pain, touch may need to be modified, such as holding hands instead of embracing with a full hug. Quality time and attention may require extra patience to allow a person with impaired communication to express himself. Your own love language and that of your loved one may be different. It is important to show love in a way that is meaningful for them. 

Love is patient, love is kind. It does not envy, it does not boast, it is not proud. It does not dishonor others, it is not self-seeking, it is not easily angered, it keeps no record of wrongs. Love does not delight in evil but rejoices in the truth. It always protects, always trusts, always hopes, always perseveres. Love never fails. 1 Corinthians 13:4-8a

for the Father Himself loves you, because you have loved Me, and have believed that I came forth from God. John 16:27

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RECIPE: McCormick French Toast

RECIPE: McCormick French Toast

Wednesday, January 28, 2026

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Image: McCormick French Toast Recipe accessed 21 January 2026

RECIPE: FRENCH TOAST by McCormick Kitchens accessed 21 January 2026

Winter isn’t over! Better keep that French Toast recipe handy. McCormick is a well-known spice company. Their recipe uses the classic vanilla and cinnamon. There are other warm spice combinations you might want to try. How about pumpkin spice? If you are topping the toast with apple compote, perhaps use apple pie spice for a doubly rich flavor. Check out what you have in your cabinet, or the baking section the next time you are in the grocery store. Bon Appetit! 

McCormick Easy French Toast Recipe

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Emergency Preparation #3 Snow

Emergency Preparation #3 Snow

Wednesday, January 21, 2026

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Image: Snowy Neighborhood 14 December 2025 by Gail K. Kachnycz

EMERGENCY PREPARATION #3 SNOW by Gail K. Kachnycz 21 January 2026

     This winter 2025-26 is starting out as a snowy one, with three events already that required clearing snow from cars and walkways. Roads were not plowed quickly, resulting in hazardous driving conditions. This was just practice for the storm we are anticipating this coming Sunday January 25, with 19 to 24 inches of snow predicted. The weather alert on my phone instructs me to implement my plan of preparation. I am inserting the link for Philadelphia Office of Emergency Management. If you do not live in Philadelphia, search your county's government website for emergency management instructions.

Philadelphia Emergency Management/Snow

     The website gives a lot of detailed information related to snow, heating, and travel. Caregivers need to have emergency supplies for their loved one. Here are the links for my previous posts on preparing for emergencies:

Emergency Preparation 25 June 2025

Emergency Preparation #2 Critical Supplies

     Here are a few of my thoughts on preparing for snow.

- Be sure you have a backup plan for loss of electrical power. Battery operated lighting, radio or device for media, and a way to charge your phone. I have used the car phone port to charge my phone during loss of electricity. If you turn on your car to charge the phone, do not keep the car in the garage. Carbon monoxide will seep into the house. Be sure that all devices and medical equipment have a full battery charge. Fill up your car; gas stations require electricity to operate the pumps.

-You may experience loss of internet or phone service. Text messages are sometimes delivered when phone service does not work.

-Have a backup plan for heat. If using kerosene heaters or generators, follow all safety regulations to avoid fire hazard or exposure to carbon monoxide. Be sure there is adequate ventilation and do not operate a generator in a garage (carbon monoxide will seep into the house). If you plan on using a fireplace, be sure the chimney is clean & you know how to operate the flues properly.

-Take precautions so that your water pipes do not freeze. This may mean allowing a small stream of water to flow from a faucet at all times.

-Obtain medications and medical supplies in advance of the storm.

-Obtain supplies for clearing the snow. Have a shovel and kitty litter or some other item to promote friction for your wheels if your car is stuck on ice or snow. Get enough salt for pavements around your house.

-We have a heat pump, so the unit fan operates year round. It does have a defrost mode for the blade, but probably not enough for 24" of snow! If you are in the same situation, check the manual for your unit to learn how to protect it in bad weather. If you can't put your hands on the manual, information is probably available on line, just check the unit for the brand model type & number.

-Stock up on bread, milk, and eggs. These items fly off the shelves before a storm. Everyone must make French Toast when it snows. OK, I am just kidding. But seriously, go food shopping, especially if your loved one requires a special diet. And so you are fully prepared, here is a recipe for French Toast.

McCormick French Toast Recipe

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Life Is Precious

Life Is Precious

Wednesday, January 14, 2026

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Image: Book Cover "Horton Hears A Who!" by Dr. Seuss

Life is Precious; Reprise of Post Published 01/15/2025

Sanctity of Life Sunday is January 18, 2026

A Person's A Person No Matter What by Gail K. Kachnycz January 15, 2025

     "Sanctity of Human Life Sunday" will be celebrated in many churches in January. The event was a response to the Roe v. Wade decision January 22, 1973, which legalized abortion nation-wide in the United States. The Supreme Court decision was revisited and overturned June 24, 2022. However, the need to recognize that each individual is made in the image of God, and to to protect the most vulnerable, is still a challenge.

     Theodore Geisel, AKA "Dr. Seuss," published the book, "Horton Hears A Who!" in 1954, well before Roe v. Wade. However, the theme of the story, "A person's a person, no matter how small," applies to the pro-life cause. In the book, Horton hears a small voice emanating from a dust speck. He believes that there are tiny people living there, worthy of protection. Others, who see and hear nothing, deride Horton and actually try to destroy the speck. But, Horton perseveres, stating, "A person's a person, no matter how small." In the end, he is able to show that the tiny "Who People" really do exist, and those who previously bullied him now join in protecting the tiny population.

     Unborn babies are not the only ones who need advocacy. A woman who views her pregnancy as a crisis also needs help. A person's a person, no matter if we agree with them or not. A person's a person, even if they are not physically complete or strong. A person's a person, no matter if they have mental limitations, or their memory is fading, or they have mental illness. Being a caregiver for the whole person: heart, soul, mind, strength, is difficult. From time to time, we need reminders to recognize the Divine Image in each person, and encouragement to continue the caregiving journey. Our Father God esteems each person as precious, both the one in need, and the caregiver. 

And let us not be weary in well-doing, for in due season we shall reap, if we faint not. Galatians 6:9

Pure and undefiled religion in the sight of our God and Father is this: to visit orphans and widows in their distress, and to keep oneself unstained by the world. James 1:27 

"And you shall love the LORD your God with all your heart, with all your soul, with all your mind, and with all your strength. This is the first commandment. And the second, like it, is this: 'You shall love your neighbor as yourself.' There is no other commandment greater than these." Mark 12:30-31 NKJV

My frame was not hidden from You, When I was made in secret, And skillfully wrought in the lowest parts of the earth. Your eyes saw my substance, being yet unformed. And in Your book they all were written, The days fashioned for me, When as yet there were none of them. How precious also are Your thoughts to me, O God! How great is the sum of them! Psalm 139: 15-17 NKJV

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Happy New Year 2026!

Happy New Year 2026!

Wednesday, January 7, 2026

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HAPPY NEW YEAR 2026! Happy List Making! by Gail K. Kachnycz on 2 January 2026

     Did you make a list of New Year's Resolutions? Did you know that making lists can help bring you a happy new year? It's true! Crossing off completed tasks from a list actually releases dopamine in your brain, giving you a little "hit of happiness."

     Busy caregivers may feel overwhelmed. Just getting through the routine of care each day may seem like enough to accomplish. Making a list can bring a sense of control and orderliness, in itself a positive effect. Lists also reduce decision fatigue, another bonus! 

     I like to set aside some "me time" in January to plan some larger goals or long range projects. Developing the calendar of blog posts is just one example. For a shorter timeframe, I outline a two week schedule and leave room for daily tasks to be filled in. I write this down on a 8x11 page. When I was down-sizing the house, I taped it to the kitchen counter. This kept me organized, reduced decision fatigue, and gave me that mood-lifting dopamine whenever I checked off the box. I also use the "Reminders" app on my phone. Examples for that are things that are time sensitive but not frequent, such as printing the updated car insurance card, scheduling the inspection for the car or maintenance for the heat pump/HVAC. The app has the advantage of the option to send an early reminder, say 1 week (or more) in advance, so there is time to schedule the appointment.

     Here is a link for the full article on the benefits of making lists. I hope it will help you to work smarter, not harder. And, during these dismal winter months, any way to lift our mood is welcome!

https://brainhealthuniversity.com/brain-health-insights/the-brains-love-affair-with-lists-why-organizing-feels-so-satisfying/

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Your Life Is Wonderful, Too!

Your Life Is Wonderful, Too!

Tuesday, December 30, 2025

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Image: Scene from "It's a Wonderful Life;" from Google images, accessed 20 November 2025

Your Life Is Wonderful, Too! by Gail K. Kachnycz on 9 December 2025

     I hope you were able to view "It's A Wonderful Life" during the holidays.

     What scenes resonated with you? Did you worry that George might not get the message and lose Mary to another man? Were you frustrated by Uncle Billy? Did you want to punch Mr. Potter in the nose? The ending is unexpected, a reminder that God's answers to prayer are creative and out of the box. 

     Over the years, I have come to appreciate this film more and more. It touches on deep themes in a creative way: How do our decisions and actions affect others? What is important to us: career or family, fame or faithful service? There is quite a bit of artistic license when it comes to portraying angels, but the prayers that introduce the opening scene are heartfelt petitions rather than rote repetitions. I find it remarkable that this movie was made in Hollywood, rather than by a Christian production company. Here are a few lessons that I see in the film.

     Like George Bailey, caregivers may feel that what we do is not important, or that opportunities pass us by. When Mike was on hospice, I remember feeling like George Bailey on the bridge--that circumstances and finances were going out of control. At those times, we need the prayers that Mary Bailey asked for: urgent requests for God's help made with strong faith. Sometimes, we need others to uphold us when we are feeling weak and drained. It is exactly that fatigue that may prevent us from asking for the very thing we need. I urge you to set up circles of prayer support in advance, so that even when you are desperate, a simple text or message to your prayer partners will initiate prayer support for you. The link below will take you to the post from 2023 on setting up Prayer Circles.

Post on Prayer Circles

     Perhaps the most amazing part of the story for me, is that George Bailey's attitude changed before people donated the money needed for the bank audit. Even though his circumstances had not changed,  and he was still facing prison for bank fraud, he was grateful for his life. He recognized that the people in his life were precious: his wife and children, his brother, his neighbors. He realized that his community was changed for the better because of his actions, although they seemed mundane. In the role as George's guardian Clarence says, "Remember, no man is a failure who has friends," and "Strange, isn't it? each man's life touches so many other lives. And when he isn't around he leaves an awful hole, doesn't he?" Your life matters. Your life impacts others. Your life is wonderful, too. 

     In the end, the kindness and integrity that George had shown over the years is returned to him literally "a thousand fold"-- eight thousand, to be exact. It always kind of irked me that Mr. Potter got away with hiding and essentially stealing the bank deposit money. But, he was thwarted in his attempt to destroy George's reputation and life. That must have tormented Mr. Potter no end. 

     In simple terms, the lesson is this: Prayers are powerful. Prayers can change things, but before they do, prayers change us.

     As the New Year begins, I leave you with a blessing from the movie, when George and Mary open a new home for one of the people who saved at the Bailey Brothers Building and Loan:

"Bread...that this house may never know hunger. Salt...that life may always have flavor. And wine...that joy and prosperity may reign forever."

I am the bread of life; he who comes to Me shall never hunger, and he who believes in Me shall never thirst. John 6:35

He waters the hills from His upper chambers; The earth is satisfied with the fruit of Your works. He causes the grass to grow for the cattle, And vegetation for the service of man, That he may bring forth food from the earth, And wine that makes glad the heart of man, Oil to make his face shine, And bread which strengthens man's heart. Psalm 104: 13-15 NKJV

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