Blessing Mix

from the kitchen of Stephanie

2 c Bugles brand corn snacks (shaped as a cornucopia, a horn of plenty)
2 c pretzels (represents arms folded in thanks and prayer)
1 c candy corn (during the first winter, the pilgrims were each allotted only 5 kernels of corn per day because food was so scarce)
1c dried or candy fruits (thanksgiving is the celebration of the harvest)
1 c. peanuts or sunflower seeds (seeds represent the potential of a bounteous harvest for the next season if they are planted and well tended)

In a large  bowl mix all ingredients together. Other ingredients such as dry cereals, candies, or marshmallows can also be added. Make this mix as a family and eat while discussing each ingredient and how it relates to Thanksgiving.

Coconut-Pecan Sweet Potatoes

from the kitchen of Jackie

Ingredients
4 pounds sweet potatoes, peeled and cut into chunks
1/2 cup chopped pecans
1/2 cup flaked coconut
1/3 cup sugar
1/3 cup packed brown sugar
1/4 cup reduced-fat butter, melted
1/2 teaspoon ground cinnamon
1/4 teaspoon salt
1/2 teaspoon coconut extract
1/2 teaspoon vanilla extract

Directions
Place sweet potatoes in a 5-qt. slow cooker coated with cooking
spray. Combine the pecans, coconut, sugar, brown sugar, butter,
cinnamon and salt; sprinkle over potatoes.

Cover and cook on low for 4 hours or until potatoes are tender. Stir in extracts. Yield: 12 servings.

Nutrition Facts: 2/3 cup equals 211 calories, 7 g fat (3 g saturated fat), 5 mg cholesterol, 103 mg sodium, 37 g carbohydrate, 3 g fiber, 2 g protein.

“These delicious sweet potatoes cook effortlessly in the slow cooker so you can tend to other things.” Coconut gives this classic dish a new, mouthwatering flavor. Raquel Haggard - Edmond, Oklahoma


12 ServingsPrep: 15 min. Cook: 4 hours