Party Potatoes

I've been asked to share a recipe that my mom and daughter have made quite often. This version of mashed potatoes is quite tasty, and I hope you enjoy it.

Party Potatoes

4 cups instant potato flakes
6 Tb. butter or margarine
1 tsp. salt
1 cup milk and 4 cups water
1 (8 oz.) pkg. cream cheese, softened
1 (8 oz.) carton sour cream
1 tsp. garlic powder or seasoned salt (we use garlic powder)
salt and pepper to taste

Toppings:
grated cheddar cheese
chives
bacon bits

Bring milk, water, butter, and salt just to boiling. Add potato flakes and mix well. Add cream cheese, sour cream, and seasonings. Place in 9x13 pan and refrigerate overnight. Remove and add any or all of the toppings. Bake at 350* for 30 minutes (uncovered).

Recipe from: High Street Baptist Church, Springfield, MO, 60th Anniversary Cookbook , submitted by Mary Zongker Boschen

Brent's Orange Julius

Oppressive heat seems to be on the mind of everyone in the midwest. 100+ temps all week long with no real end in sight. I joked to our pastor that he should preach on hell during these temperatures. "If you think it's hot here, you don't want to go there". Of course, we were joking, but it will be a lot hotter, and you DON'T have to go there. A way was made for us, and His name is Jesus.

How do I segue from that to a frozen orange drink? By saying STAY COOL in these hot conditions. Seems like everyone likes a nice cold drink on a hot day.

Our son-in-law shared his recipe with us for an Orange Julius-type drink. Thought I would share it with you. We like to stick the cups in the freezer until it's almost frozen. Enjoy!

Brent's Oriange Julius

1/2 can (12 oz) orange juice concentrate

1 cup water

1 cup milk

1/2 cup sugar

1 tsp. vanilla

10 ice cubes

Blend in blender. Pour into cups. Makes 4 - 8oz servings.

Recipe from: Brent Longenecker

Notes: Tastes really good when (mostly) frozen.