When life gives you lemons....

make lemonade, right? We have heard that so many times. In my case, I would make lemon meringue pie, lemon bars, or even lemon cake. So what really happens when you keep getting the lemons, how do you handle it? How do you not question God?
This family has been through so many challenges in one year. Truly, I have learned a new profound appreciation for Job and his patience. I have not been so fortunate in the patience department. So, what I have learned? How have I handled my lemons?
First, I have learned to breathe. Deep inhale, deep exhale. When I am stressed I tense up, I don't relax. This only compounds the problem. By taking that moment, by taking that time, I send up my prayer. "Ok God, I know you are here. What am I learning now? Guide my footeps."
Second, I hug my kids more. We have done a lot to shield them from most of the challenges, but they are so very preceptive. They can see the stress, they can hear it in my voice. So we hug each other all the more. Having those cheerleaders in your corner, make all the difference. But it doesn't have to be children, it could be a friend, a spouse, or a parent. We need to rely on those loved ones around us.
Finally, do something you love. For me, I hit the kitchen. Being there, making something nourishing, just fills my soul. Everything melts away and I become at peace. So put yourself in a time out! Mediate on God's love for you! Yes, you are struggling, but God is making you stronger.
There have a couple events that have inspired this post. On December 1, I learned my mother had breast cancer. That night I was sitting at church for advent service, and a dear friend placed a bag of lemons infront of me. On January 17, my husband was stuck in San Diego with a broken down big rig, and he missed his son's birthday. My sister-in-law came to the party bringing me a bag of lemons. To me, these times reminded me no matter how many lemons you are given, God has given you the ability to turn it into something just awesome and delicious! Trust in HIM, it will taste sweet in the end.

Sweet Lemon Bars
1 c. Butter
1/2 c. Powder Sugar
2 1/3 c. All-Purpose Flour
4 Eggs
2 c. Granulated Sugar
1 t. Grated Lemon Peel
6 T. Lemon Juice
1 t. Baking Powder
Powder Sugar

In a large bowl of an electric mixer, beat butter and the 1/2 cup of powder sugar. Beat until creamy; beat in 2 cups of the flour. Spread the mixture over the bottom of a well-greased 9x13 in pan. Bake in a 350 degree for 20 minutes.
Meanwhile, in a small bowl of mixer, beat eggs until a light yellow color. Gradually add in granualted sugar. until mixture is thick and lemon colored. Add lemon juice, zest, and 1/3 c flour, and baking powder. Beat unitl smooth and everything is well combined.
Pour lemon mixture over prebaked crust and return it to the oven. Bake for another 15 to 20 minutes until the topping is pale golden. Place on a rack to cool. Sift powder sugar over lemon bars. Cut and serve. Makes about 20 bars.