Barbecue gathering had it all

Last Sunday was a joyous family event, rich with meaning and spiritual symbolism as family and friends gathered to witness the baptism of our grandson, Derek.

After a beautiful ceremony at Lord of Life Lutheran Church, we all gathered for a barbecue celebration at Tim and Lisa's home. Lots of good food was enjoyed by all as we sat outdoors and enjoyed the warm, sunny day.

This week, I would like to share with you a few of the yummy recipes that were served.

Jackie's Cold Crab Dip

8 ounces crab surimi seafood chunks

1 medium onion, diced

1 stick celery, diced

1 can black olives, sliced

8 ounces cheddar cheese, shredded

Enough mayonnaise to moisten

1 heaping teaspoon Miracle Whip

Combine all ingredients in a medium bowl. Mix well. Chill and serve over Ritz crackers.

Fudgy Caramel

Ice Cream Dessert

12 ice cream sandwiches

1 jar hot fudge topping

1 1/2 cups dry roasted peanuts

Vanilla ice cream, sliced

1 jar caramel topping

1 1/2 cups Spanish peanuts

8 ounces Cool Whip

Place ice cream sandwiches in the bottom of a 9x13-inch cake pan. Spread jar of hot fudge topping on top of sandwiches. Sprinkle with dry roasted peanuts. Place a layer of ice cream slices about 3/4 inch thick over peanuts. Spread with jar of caramel topping. Sprinkle with Spanish peanuts. Spread Cool Whip over the top of the peanuts. Cover and chill overnight. Cut into slices and serve with a cherry on top.

Calico Beans

2 cans lima beans or butter beans

1 can kidney beans

1 can pork and beans

1 medium onion, chopped

1/2 pound bacon

1/2 pound hamburger

1/2 cup ketchup

3/4 cup brown sugar

1 teaspoon prepared mustard

1 teaspoon vinegar

1 teaspoon salt

Saut onions, bacon and hamburger until slightly cooked. Add beans and remaining ingredients. Bake 1 1/2 hours at 375 degrees. Add more liquid if necessary. I like to mix it all together and put in the crockpot for a few hours.

GARY'S TIP: You can freeze buttermilk before it spoils. Just pour in one cup portions in sealable plastic freezer bags. When you need buttermilk again, just thaw a package.

FOOD FOR THOUGHT: The language of friendship is not words by meanings.