As November sweeps Lake View with its autumnal charm and cozy ambiance, we embark on a month dedicated to gratitude. This is the perfect time to reflect on the many blessings that surround us and to celebrate the spirit of thankfulness that defines our community. In this post, we invite you to join us in a month of gratitude that will warm your hearts and tantalize your taste buds.

The Power of Gratitude

Gratitude is a force that can transform our lives and strengthen the bonds within our community. Lake View has always been known for its close-knit neighborhood and the kindness that residents extend to one another. In November, let’s make a conscious effort to express our appreciation for the people, moments, and experiences that enrich our lives.

The Gratitude Jar

An easy way to practice gratitude is by starting a Gratitude Jar. Place a jar in a prominent location at home and encourage your family to write down something they are thankful for each day. As the jar fills up, take time to read and share these notes of gratitude, reminding us of the beauty in our everyday lives.

Sharing Our Gratitude

We also encourage you to take the opportunity to share your gratitude with those who make a positive impact on your life. Consider sending heartfelt notes or small tokens of appreciation to local heroes, teachers, healthcare workers, or anyone who has touched your heart. Lake View is full of unsung heroes who deserve recognition for their contributions.

A Recipe for Gratitude: Apple Crisp

To add a touch of culinary delight to our month of gratitude, we offer a comforting and delicious recipe for Apple Crisp. This delightful dessert is a perfect blend of warmth and sweetness, making it an ideal treat for autumn evenings.

Ingredients:

• 6 cups of sliced, peeled apples (about 6-8 apples)
• 1 tablespoon lemon juice
• 1/2 cup granulated sugar
• 1 teaspoon ground cinnamon
• 1/2 teaspoon ground nutmeg
• 1 cup old-fashioned rolled oats
• 1/2 cup all-purpose flour
• 1/2 cup brown sugar
• 1/2 cup (1 stick) unsalted butter, cold and diced

Instructions:

1. Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease a 9×9-inch baking dish.
2. In a large mixing bowl, combine the sliced apples, lemon juice, granulated sugar, cinnamon, and nutmeg. Toss to coat the apples evenly, then transfer them to the prepared baking dish.
3. In another bowl, combine the oats, flour, and brown sugar. Add the cold, diced butter and use a pastry cutter or your fingers to work the butter into the dry ingredients until the mixture resembles coarse crumbs.
4. Sprinkle the oat mixture evenly over the apples in the baking dish.
5. Bake in the preheated oven for 40-45 minutes or until the topping is golden brown and the apples are tender.
6. Allow the Apple Crisp to cool slightly, then serve it warm. You can enjoy it as is or add a scoop of vanilla ice cream for an extra treat.

This Apple Crisp is a delightful way to celebrate the flavors of autumn while appreciating the simple joys in life. As you savor this delicious dessert, take a moment to reflect on the many things you are thankful for in your community and beyond.

In Lake View, we are grateful for our shared experiences and the connections that make our town unique. Let’s make this November a memorable month of gratitude as we nurture the bonds that unite us.