Sweet Silver Ranch

It was the evening of the Italian Feast and the smells emanating from the kitchen were just too much. Garlic, oregano, and basil nearly knocked Abbey down. She had to get in and see what was happening. "Frieda, is it alright if I watch the preparation for tonight's meal?"
"Oh absolutely, it is almost impossible to keep me out of the dining room or kitchen. Come with me, we'll get you an apron and you can do whatever makes you happy." Frieda chimed.

Suddenly, as they passed into the main dining room it had become an Italian Cafe. Small round red globes with candles, parmesan and red pepper shakers sat atop tables with wine bottles, (although they appeared to be non-alcoholic), Il Divo singing over the speakers, there were gondolas sitting in a man made mylar formed stream, and dangling grape vines, Italian maps and pictures on every wall, Huge gazebo shelters separated the tables and made it appear very romantic, as if you had entered a Tuscan garden. Over some of the tables, there appeared stars in the sky, (actually small twinkling lights over the booths and gazebos).

Abbey questioned, "Now how in the world did you do all of this?"
"We've been doing this for some time. We've collected lots of stuff over the years, and we simply move things around for our theme nights. Tonight will be lasagna, fettuccini, linguini, and pizza pie for the kiddos. We have tiramisu and even our own gelato. It is fun isn't it?" Frieda responded.

Abbey asked for clarification about the gelato, Frieda explained that it was a very special Italian ice cream. Really, the only way to eat it was in Italy, but they made a pretty good replica of it for Georgia. Abbey asked, "Why so much effort? Surely, a good meal, and a nice place to stay are sufficient?"

Frieda looked as though the thought had never occurred to her. Finally she said, "Abbey darlin', God gives us gifts. Mine are hospitality, encouragement, and serving. When God gifts us, He does not do so for our pleasure. he does it for his glory. These people who lead our churches, literally, give of themselves constantly. They give with very little thanks, few rewards and at the greatest possible expense. Now, if God is going to let me serve them for a week or two. I must do it to the best of my abilities. I must praise my God with everything that I have in the way that He designed me to…all I know is that I want to make Him smile!"