Countrified Hicks

Update on Ronny & Memorizing Memory Verses

2026-05-15T17:20:46.515-05:00

As most of you know, Ronny is autistic. He is now 21 and besides being autistic he is also suffers from agoraphobia. I am now bedbound due to my Multiple Sclerosis now and he usually will not go anywhere without me anyway so he is pretty much confined a home now too.

Brandon my 28-year-old son is my primary caregiver. Most of you probably remember that he, Brandon, is also a preacher. Brandon leads our family prayer every evening and does sermons online that he shares here on my blog and on YouTube. That way he can still preach the word of God and share it with the masses.

Because Ronny is home all the time, I recently began doing Sunday school lessons for him. It’s actually just in the early weeks but we are enjoying it and I think it’s gonna be a real blessing to him and me both.

But about four months ago, I started giving Ronny a memory verse, one at a time, to memorize. I really wasn’t sure how that was going to work out but he’s done remarkably well and has been enjoying them. Right now he has memorized 10 memory verses and he recites them twice a day. Once in the morning and once in the evening.

If you have been wanting your child to memorize some memory verses, or you need to start memorizing memory verses, I will list the ones that we started off with, and it would be a good starting point for you. I’m enjoying doing this with Ronny because when I was a child, I knew a ton of memory versus but through the years I have forgotten a lot of of them so this has gotten me to re-memorize these verses.

It’s super important to memorize Bible verses because it provides you an arsenal to fight the enemy with. Remember when Jesus was in the desert, He fought Satan by countering with scripture to Satan and that’s how He won. That’s how He overcomes Satan and beat him.

Here are the list of Bible verses Ronny learned. I listed each one on an index card.

He went over him in the morning and night and once he totally had the verse memorized, I put the date on the back and he started learning the memory verse.

1. John 3:16 “ for God, so loved the world, that he gave his only begotten son, that he whatsoever believe it’s in him, should not perish, but have everlasting life.”

2. James 1:17 “ Every good gift comes from God.”

3. 1 John 4:19 “ We love because He first loved us.”

4. Joshua 24:15 “ As for me and my house, we will serve the Lord.”

5. Isaiah 41:10 “ I do not need to be afraid because God is with me.”

6. Philippians 4:4 “ Rejoice in the Lord always; again, I say rejoice!”

7. Philippians4:13 “ I can do all things through Christ, who strengthens me.”

8. James 4:7 “ Submit yourselves to God. Resist the devil and he will flee from you.”

9. 1 John 4:8b “God is love.”

10. Luke 6:31 “Treat people the same way you want them to treat you.”

11. Psalm 150:6 “Let everything that has breath, praise the Lord.”

Click here: Ronny and one of his paintings.

Ronny sells his paintings at small private showing and on eBay. All of his work is one of a kind. If you click the above link, it will take you to one of his pieces and from there, you can buy it or see some of his other. You can always comment here if you’re interested in something in particular.

Link to Ronny’s Art on eBay

Another another piece for sale on eBay

Another piece of art for sale

Even if you’re not in the market to buy art, please go check it out. We are trying to sell the art to help Ronny. If you at least give it a look, it will help his morale. He also makes bookmarks for $5 dollars apiece, if you’re interested, just let us know.

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Gravitt Prayer Pot Co

2026-05-09T17:03:00.000-05:00

✨ Simple Use Directions:

Directions:
Add contents to a small pot with 2–3 cups of water.
Simmer gently on low heat.
Add water as needed and enjoy the aroma throughout the day.

For aromatic use only. Do not consume.

After using, cover and place in the refrigerator for future use. This can be used 3 to 4 more times per bag.

The Easter Story

2026-04-05T06:00:00.003-05:00

This is the reading of the Easter story from Luke 23:33-56 on through Luke 24:1-53. It is from the NASB and there is no preaching other than the straight reading of the Easter story. It is God’s written word and it’s perfect as it is so he just does the reading. Enjoy it and have a blessed Easter and the rest of the year.

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Getting More Out of Reading Your Bible

2026-03-15T06:00:00.001-05:00

This is a short sermon by my son, which encourages you to read your Bible in a more effective way. I hope you will be blessed by it.

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Our Blog- https://countrifiedhicks.com/ Instagram- / countrifiedhicks Twitter- https://twitter.com/#%21/MelodyGravitt Pinterest- / melodyahol Email- gravittfamilyof5@aol.com

Our Dog Chrissy

2026-03-02T14:09:00.001-06:00

My oldest son’s dog is a Great Pyrenees named Chrissy. Chrissy is a really really good dog. We got her when she was almost 6 weeks old and she is now 8 1/2.

When she was younger, Chrissy would eat pretty much any good dog food that we put in front of her. But in the past year, she has become really picky. She got where she wouldn’t hardly eat anything. We tried all sorts of different high-quality foods of different brands and she would just turn her nose up to it. Then we started trying the fresh dog food and she would eat it a time or two and then she wouldn’t eat it either.

We finally tried Spot and Tango and I’m so glad that we did. She loves it. It’s the first time in a long time that she has been excited about meal time. She eats every last bite and is eating more than she has in a long time. She has been on Spot and Tango for about eight months now. We can see a big difference in her. Her coat is shiny and pretty. She has more energy. Overall, she’s just a happier dog. I would highly recommend you try it out. If you use my link, you will get 70% off your first order. I think if you try it, your dog will be happy too. Click here: My referral link

~~~Our Links and contact info~~~

Our Blog- https://countrifiedhicks.com/ Instagram- / countrifiedhicks Twitter- https://twitter.com/#%21/MelodyGravitt Pinterest- / melodyahol Email- gravittfamilyof5@aol.com

Moments with Melody #1

2026-02-21T16:37:00.002-06:00

Moments with Melody is going to be a recurring video series. I have been on this earth for 58 years and feel like I have a bit of knowledge to share with y’all. I will share tips and tricks from the kitchen and in your household. I will answer questions. I will talk about sustainability and other things. If you have any questions, leave them in the comments. I look forward to hearing from you.

~~~Our Links and contact info~~~

Our Blog- https://countrifiedhicks.com/ Instagram- / countrifiedhicks Twitter- https://twitter.com/#%21/MelodyGravitt Pinterest- / melodyahol Email- gravittfamilyof5@aol.com

Hello All!

2026-02-11T14:58:00.010-06:00

Hello everybody. I hope everyone’s been doing OK. I know it’s been a bit since I’ve written. Most know that I’ve been on hospice care and I’m now bedridden due to my multiple sclerosis and my other ailments. Well, I am still on hospice care, I will probably remain on hospice care due to my chronic pain and hospice is needed to help control that pain, but I am actually doing so much better. Here is a picture of me at my worst.

That was taken February 3, 2025. I was in really bad shape and it wasn’t for prayers and the care of my son, who was and is still, my primary caretaker, I wouldn’t be here today.

Here are some pictures of what I look like now.

As you can tell, I have put on some weight and I actually look a lot healthier. I appreciate everybody who stood by my side and for everybody’s prayers.

I’m also very thankful that this blog has continued to grow even though I haven’t posted as much. I still gain new followers every month and I’m glad that people still find my content relevant. I know that the world is so unstable now and I think that’s why people are wanting to learn how to make their own bread and learn how to be more sustainable and I know my blog is a great way to do that. As always, I welcome comments and suggestions.

And for all of you all who follow my son‘s ministry, here is an another sermon that he has done recently.

Have a blessed rest of your week and weekend!

~~~Our Links and contact info~~~

Our Blog- https://countrifiedhicks.com/ Instagram- / countrifiedhicks Twitter- https://twitter.com/#%21/MelodyGravitt Pinterest- / melodyahol Email- gravittfamilyof5@aol.com

The Christmas Story Like Never Before

2025-12-27T18:15:00.004-06:00

This is my son who is not only a preacher but is also my caregiver. I do believe this is his best sermon/lesson yet. Listen carefully, I am sure you”ll get something out of this lesson.

~~~Our Links and contact info~~~

Our Blog- https://countrifiedhicks.com/ Instagram- / countrifiedhicks Twitter- https://twitter.com/#%21/MelodyGravitt Pinterest- / melodyahol Email- gravittfamilyof5@aol.com

It’s Not Always About Our Feelings

2025-10-05T06:30:00.001-05:00

This is a short sermon/Bible lesson by my son over a biblical misconceptions. Please take a time to view it. If you have any comments, be sure to leave them on the YouTube. And please leave any comments here also. We would love for you to be a subscriber to our YouTube channel. It would really help us out. We hope you enjoy it and are blessed by it. Thank you and have a blessed week.

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Understanding “Judge Not Lest You Be Judged”

2025-09-28T06:00:00.001-05:00

A great Bible lesson over a subject that is often misunderstood that causes a lot of issues. Be sure to subscribe to our channel and leave any comments that you might have.

Is the Word of God Your Guiding Light?

2025-09-11T08:00:00.001-05:00

When God Shows You Favor

2025-06-11T08:00:00.001-05:00

This is Brandon‘s newest sermon. It is less than 10 minutes long and discusses how to react or not to react when God shows you favor. I hope you enjoy and if you have any questions, comments, or suggestions for further sermons, please let me.

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Ronny My Austic Son

2025-05-17T06:30:00.001-05:00

Many of you know that my youngest son Ronny, who is 20, is 100% disabled due to autism. He is a kind and gentle soul. I am very lucky that he is verbal and so very sweet. One of his passions now is art. And as you may know, art by people with autism is highly valued, and Ronny has only put up a very few pieces of his work to be sold because he usually wants to keep every PC creates. I don’t really blame him, they’re beautiful. This is only his third piece of art that he is willing to sell And so I am sharing it with you all. Do you give you an opportunity to own one of his pieces of art.

It is up on eBay and here’s the listing. https://www.ebay.com/itm/365603308801

Believing in the Power of Prayer

2025-05-15T08:00:00.001-05:00

Here is Brandon’s newest Bible lesson/sermon. It is a very powerful lesson on believing in the power of prayer. He talks about how it’s not just about praying it’s about believing in what you’re saying also. If you have any questions or you enjoy this video please leave a comment down below and be sure to follow us.

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The True Gospel.

2025-04-30T08:00:00.000-05:00

Brandon’s newest sermon/Bible lesson. It is a short 13 minutes. Go view it and be blessed.

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Forgetting Our Lessons

2025-04-06T08:00:00.002-05:00

I am so proud of our 27 year-old son. Not only is he a preacher, he is also my caregiver. I have been on hospice for nearly a year now. Nurses come twice a week, but Brandon does my care not only five days a week, but also majority of the care on the days, the nurses come too. Since he is my caregiver and has to be here with me 24/7 He is not preaching at a church right now. Instead, he is writing short Bible lessons/sermons that we share on YouTube. This way he can reach a broader and larger amount of people today’s short lesson is over, forgetting our lessons. Please enjoy and subscribe to not only my blog, but please subscribe to our YouTube channel. You’ll be updated every time he does a new sermon. Each one is less than 10 minutes so it would not take up much of your day and could really replenish your cup..

Questioning God

2025-04-05T08:00:00.001-05:00

This is the longest Bible lesson/sermon in the series at just over 8 1/2 minutes. He does these lessons and under 10 minutes because most people don’t have a lot of time in their day. He created these lessons to spread the word of God. This lesson is over, questioning God and the importance of following God, despite having those questions. Many people have questions regarding God’s will. in this video shows that even if you have questions, the most important thing is to continuously follow God, despite having those questions.

I hope you have enjoyed this. Please share it to spread the Word. Also consider following this blog and our YouTube channel. be blessed.

Don’t Grow Weary

2025-04-04T08:00:00.001-05:00

Here is another Bible lesson/sermon. It’s just barely over six minutes, so watch it and enjoy a cup of coffee. It’s entitled do not grow weary of doing good. It’s just basically reminding us Christians that we should never stop doing good. We need to fight the good fight. Yes you can rest but never should stop.

If you’re enjoying these lessons, be sure to subscribe to this channel and her YouTube channel.

Mental Purity

2025-04-03T13:31:00.000-05:00

Today’s Bible lesson is over mental purity and how we should keep our hearts and minds pure. This Bible lesson/sermon is less than eight minutes. Listening to the studies is a perfect way to start or end your day. Please consider following our YouTube channel and this blog. All my love….

“A” is for Autism, Color Block Painting by Autistic Painter

2025-03-15T08:00:00.008-05:00

This is a painting by my youngest son who is 100% disabled caused due to autism. He does many different styles of painting, but his niche is color block painting. This is an original painting that is hand painted. I love the vibrant colors that he chose. Paintings by autistic people are in high demand. This is one of a kind painting that will NOT be duplicated or replicated in any shape, way, or form.

It is only $75. Click on the link down below to find it on eBay.

It is a large painting, measuring 11“ x 14“. It comes with a certificate of authenticity and is signed by the artist. Since paintings by professional autistic artist, like Ronny, their value will only increase in time. It would look great in an office, living room, Dan, or any place you see fit. Be sure to grab this one up before it’s too late. A portion of the sale will be going to the Autism Society of America.

https://www.ebay.com/itm/365461350205

Five minute Bible lesson

2025-03-04T22:04:00.001-06:00

Here is a great five minute sermon/Bible lesson. It’s really informative and talks about how the book of God can be misused. Be sure to check it out. If you have any comments, please list them below and if you have a few minutes, be sure to follow our YouTube channel.

How to Make a Classic Christmas Rainbow Poke Cake

2022-12-17T06:00:00.004-06:00

This recipe has been around for a LONG time and to me, it never goes out of style. It is colorful, festive, moist and utterly delicious. Not to mention, really easy to make. Be sure to whip one up this year for your family and friends.

1 pkg. super moist white cake mix

8 oz. tub whipped topping, such as Cool-Whip or make yourown

3 oz. pkg. raspberry Jell-O

3 oz. pkg. lime Jell-O

2 c. boiling water

Red and green sprinkles, optional

Prepare the cake mix according to directions. Pour the batter into a 9”x13” cake pan. Bake as directed and allow the cake to cool for about 25-30 minutes.

As the cake is cooling, mix up the raspberry Jell-O in a bowl with one cup of the boiling water and stir until completely dissolved. Do the same with the lime Jell-O. Using the handle of a wooden spoon, poke holes evenly on the cake in rows. Spoon the raspberry Jell-O over the cake in one row and then repeat the same with the lime Jell-O in the next row. Continue alternating the rows. Refrigerate the cake for 3-4 hours.

Once the cake has been refrigerated for at least 3 hours, remove and top with Cool-Whip. Sprinkle on some red and green sprinkles, cut and enjoy. It’s always a huge hit.

Some of our other favorite dessert recipes include: Old Fashioned Potato Candy, the Classic Sugar Cookie, and a Dirty Snow Cake. What is your favorite Christmas dessert?

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Creamy & Delicious Chicken Stew

2022-12-04T06:00:00.001-06:00

This recipe is classic comfort food. It is easy to make and tastes great with some homemade biscuits.

It’s a meal unto itself with juicy chicken, potatoes, onions and more. It’s one of my all-time favorite meals (along with beef stew).

3 c. milk
1 c. sour cream
4 boneless and skinless chicken breasts, cooked and cut into bite sized pieces
4 large potatoes, diced
1 small onion, diced
1 can carrots
1 can green beans
2 batches of cream of chicken soup or 2 cans (10.5 oz.) store-bought
1 T. butter
2T. olive oil
1 T. Italian seasoning
2 T. ranch dressing mix or 1 envelope of store-bought
½ tsp. rosemary
½ tsp. thyme
½ tsp. celery seed
½ tsp. pepper

Melt your butter in a large soup pot over medium heat. Add in the chicken, pepper and Italian seasoning. Stir in the vegetables and sauté until the onions are translucent.

Now add in the olive oil. Stir in the rest of the ingredients. Cook over medium-low heat for about 45 minutes or until the potatoes are tender.

Serves 6. This recipe provides about 50 carbs per serving.

Be sure to check out some of my other great soup recipes including: Ham & Potato Soup, Homemade Chili, and Ham & Beans Soup.

If you give this recipe a try, please take a picture of it and tag me on Instagram @countrifiedhicks and use the hashtag #countrifiedhicks so I don't miss seeing your post!

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Mexican Bean Soup Mix in a Jar

2022-11-26T06:00:00.001-06:00

This mix makes a really delicious and hearty soup that is perfect any time of the year. It is bursting with flavor and is easy on your pocketbook. It is also great to take on camping trips and it freezes well too.

3/4 c dried pinto beans
3/4 c. navy beans
3/4 c. kidney beans
3/4 c. black beans
1 c. small cut pasta
1/2 c. rice
4 chicken bouillon cubes
2 T. dehydrated onion
2 T. parsley flakes
1 T. chili powder
2 tsp. cumin
1 tsp. oregano

Layer the beans into a quart jar. Place the pasta in a small baggie. Place the rice into another small baggie. Put the rest of the ingredients into a 3rd small baggie. Place baggies into jar with the beans.

To make the soup:

Rinse the beans and place them into a heavy bottomed soup pot with 8 cups of water. Bring to a boil. Once they start to boil, turn off the stove and remove the pot from heat Put a lid on the pot and let it sit for an hour.

Once the hour has elapsed, drain the beans and put them back into the pot. Add in 8 cups of water and the contents of the 3rd baggie (spices, etc.). Bring to a boil, reduce heat and simmer for an hour with a lid on the pot. The beans should be tender at this point. If not, allow them to simmer a bit longer.

Once the beans are tender, stir in the rice and cover and simmer about 15 minutes. Now stir in the pasta and 1/2 cup of water. Uncover the pot Cook for 10 minutes. Serve and enjoy.

If you give this recipe a try, please take a picture of it and tag me on Instagram @countrifiedhicks and use the hashtag #countrifiedhicks so I don't miss seeing your post!

Be sure to check out some of my other soup mix in a jar recipes: Rainbow Soup Mix in a Jar, Chicken and Rice Soup Mix in a Jar, Potato Soup Mix in a Jar, and Barley & Lentil Soup Mix in a Jar!

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Classic Cranberry Salad Recipe

2022-11-21T06:00:00.001-06:00

This cranberry salad is a perfect holiday side dish. It is sweet and creamy and is a family favorite. Even people who generally do not like cranberries love this salad.

· 12 oz. fresh or frozen cranberries

· 20 oz. crushed pineapples, drained

· 3 c. mini marshmallows

· 1 c. whipped topping (homemade or similar to Cool Whip)

· 1 c. chopped pecans

· ½ c. sugar

Place the cranberries into your blender or food processor and pulse until they are chopped up. Pour the chopped cranberries into a large bowl and add in the pineapples and stir. Stir in the whipped topping, pecans and sugar. Fold in the marshmallows and refrigerate for 2-3 hours before serving.

Other dishes that we love to serve around the holidays include: Au Gratin Potatoes, Cranberry Chutney, soft Pumpkin cookies and Pumpkin Sheet Cake.

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