Melba's Swap Shop: A Christmas party invitation

They can come whenever they're ready, but should try not to be late. Traditionally, we would specify Dec. 25, but He's always available, so the date is flexible. Oh, and the party place is in your heart. He'll meet you there.

It's not formal. Come as you are. He said something about furnishing new white robes and crowns. Admission is free. He already paid for everyone. We wouldn't have been able to afford it anyhow.

Refreshments will include new wine, bread and something He calls “Living Water,” followed by a supper that promises to be out of this world.

Gift suggestions: Your life. He already has everything else. But wait until you see what He has for you.

Entertainment will be joy, peace, truth, healing, etc. All “G” rated, so bring your children, too.

RSVP: sure to let Him know ahead so He can reserve a spot for you at the table. He's keeping a list of friends for future reference. He calls it the Lamb's Book of Life.

Go ahead and invite all your friends. See you there.

— MARY LEE COLWELL, Red Oak

DEAR MELBA: Mattie Young requested recipes for Christmas Cookies. These are good for Christmas, but they're also good all other times.

In 1962, Elsie Hauptman, a Southwestern Bell Telephone Co. friend, brought “a bunch” of these cookies to work and also shared her recipe. If you don't have Brazil nuts, use more walnuts.

ELSIE'S COOKIES

1/4 pound margarine

3/4 cup brown sugar, packed

1 egg

11/4 cups flour

1/2 teaspoon salt

1/2 teaspoon baking soda

1 cup chopped walnuts

1 cup Brazil nuts