inspiring today’s teen
Summer
2012
Discover Discover your Gifts Gifts your & Talents! Talents! & Live Life Life Live to the the Fullest Fullest to How to to be be How Stylish & & Stylish Modest Modest Meet Ali Ali & & Meet Christina Christina
plus
5 great books to read this summer
Tired of reading lame-o “news” about celebrities?
Do you think there is more to life than fashion?
Then subscribe to Real Girl Magazine today!
Go to www.realgirlmag.com to subscribe!
I N S P I R I N G
T O D A Y ’ S
T E E N
Real Girl Magazine is positive, encouraging and uplifting! Each issue focuses on meaningful topics and celebrates being yourself.
inside this issue In Every Issue Editor’s Letter 1 From the Mailbag 6 Real Girl at the Movies 8 Crafty Corner 10 Everyday Advice 14 Healthy Girl 30 Outdoor Adventures 36 Books We Love 37 Delectable Delights 40 Music to our Ears 44 Creative Cats 59
Features 9 Summer Skincare 17 Summer Fun with Friends 21 Getting Real: Gifts and Talents 38 Living Life to The Fullest 42 Volunteering: Make a Difference 43 Summer Reading Picks 45 Relating to Parents 46 Summer Tour Spotlight 48 Singing Sisters 54 Back to School 56 My Best Friend 62 Summer Modesty
Publisher & Editor-in-Chief
Elizabeth Bennett
Assistant Editor
Jonathan Bennett
Contributing Writers
Art Director Graphic Design Intern Photography
Joy Allen Sophia Bayles Lindsay Brett Niki Carter Rebecca Campbell Jessica DeHart Jordan Fessehaie Kelley Hendricks Gabrielle Jones Suzanne McDonough Alyssa Shull Emily Suddath Laura Titre Jenny Wernly Grace Butt Caroline Brock Merianne Dietrich Real Girl Magazine P.O. Box 2267 Clinton, MS 39060 www.realgirlmag.com Facebook.com/realgirlmag @realgirlmag
Š 2012 All Rights Reserved
dear readers, Writing has always been a joy for me. I have a box filled with journals that I have kept since elementary school. English was always my favorite subject and I have always loved reading and writing. My love for writing and art led me to study those things later on in college.
What do you love to do? What are you passionate about? In this issue, our Getting Real column is about discovering your gifts and talents. Every person has a special gift or talent that can be used the rest of her life. Check out this great article on page 25. You can download this Getting Real activity from our web site to do on your own or with a group of friends.
Elizabeth Bennett Editor-in-Chief
Also, writer Alyssa Shull tells you how to be stylish and modest at the same time. She gives you a plethora of tips and ideas on how to make this happen. See page 67 to discover summer modesty. In June, we hit the road and went to Birmingham and Atlanta for our Real Girl Summer Tour. We met a lot of people along the way & spread the word about Real Girl Magazine. Thanks to Girls Inc. of Central Alabama, Canaan Baptist Church in Birmingham, Girl Talk in Atlanta for your hospitality. Thanks Floyd & Baird Engineering for being the official sponsor of the summer tour! Have a great summer!
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contributors Alyssa Shull is a pastor and speaker with a heart to see girls
and women know their beauty and how to walk in purity. She is the founder of The Pink Lid a purity conference for teen girls. She is also the host of Skunks TV, a national youth show. Alyssa graduated in 2008 from Oral Roberts University with a degree in Multi-Media Productions. Find out more about Alyssa at www. shullmi.com.
Emily Suddath was born and raised in Mobile, Alabama but
made her way to the Pacific Northwest three years ago. She lived in the Seattle area while working at SAMBICA and now currently lives near San Francisco with her husband and son. She enjoys reading books, exercising and traveling. Emily claims to be an avid “googler” and loves to google everything!
Gabriele Jones resides in beautiful Gulf Shores, Alabama
with her handsome husband Daniel and energetic 5-year old son. She loves a full plate and stays very busy maintaining family, friends, school, work and her position as a future director for Mary Kay Cosmetics. When Gabriele is not working, she lives reading, writing, cooking and couponing. Her desire is to enrich women’s lives, no matter what she is doing. Bringing the love, joy and hope of our God into the lives of others is a priority for her.
Becca Campbell is a recent graduate from Louisiana State
University with a Master’s in Elementary Education. This summer marks one year that she has been married to her best friend, Chad. She enjoys cooking, crafting for their home, taking walks and visiting new places. She is currently looking for a teaching position where she can motivate girls and boys to be real to themselves! You can check out more about her at onemanyextras. wordpress.com.
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Sofia Bayle is a Honduran born, Christ redeemed, national
certified counselor whose passion has been to use psychology as a bridge of understanding between teens and adults. Writing for Real Girl Magazine is one of the ways she does it.
Jordan Fessehaie is a rising 11th grader at North Cobb High
School in Kennesaw, Georgia. She loves to cook and mentors with Chef Janine Falvo at Briza Restaurant at the Marriott Renaissance Hotel in Atlanta, Georgia.
Laura Titre is a music educator from Northern Colorado and
is currently finishing her Master’s degree in Music Education. When she is not making music, she enjoys hiking, crafts, reading and staying up late with her roommates watching Downtown Abbey.
Jessica DeHart was born and raised in Atlanta, Georgia. She
married a wonderful man and together they have three teenage sons, and a lovely mutt named Hampton. In 2007, Jessica began A Brilliant Life Foundation to help people live strong lives and reach their potential. She has written curriculum for nonprofits such as Big Brothers Big Sisters and The Girl Scouts. She also enjoys teaching in wonderful schools and organizations such as Boys & Girls Clubs, The Ron Clark Academy, the Atlanta Girls’ School, Atlanta Youth Academies, The Seaside Neighborhood School, Coretta Scott King Women’s Leadership Academy and 21st Century Leaders. Check her out on the web at www.abrilliantlife.org. When Jessica isn’t teaching or writing, she loves being with her family and friends as well as reading and running.
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contributors Lindsay Brett teaches theatre, character ed and English as a
Second Language in a public middle school. She studied Spanish, Sociology, and Communication at Mississippi State University and holds a Masters Degree in TESOL from Regent University. Lindsay has served as a youth minister for eight years and travels speaking and teaching drama workshops. Gladys, Lindsay’s alter ego, was created as a teaching tool in both church and school settings. Currently, Gladys makes character education videos for the school in which she uses her eccentric personality and idiosyncrasies to teach life lessons. Gladys feels everyday she wakes to a blank canvas to which she is able to apply the massive amount of make-up to decorate and create the masterpiece. Lindsay, on the other hand, just loves sweet tea.
Joy Allen grew up in Gordo, Alabama and is a graduate of the
University of South Alabama and the University of Southern Mississippi. She married her husband, Jared, in 2007 and now lives as a Navy wife on a beautiful island in the Pacific Northwest. She enjoys teaching, good fellowship with good friends and loving on her beautiful baby girl.
Elizabeth Bennett was born in Sherman, Texas, moved to
Salem, Oregon with her family for a few years, and then spent most of her life in the great state of Alabama. Some of her favorite summers were spent working at camps in North Carolina and Washington. Elizabeth graduated in December 2007 from the University of South Alabama, majoring in print journalism and minoring in art. In 2008 she moved to Mississippi to be a news reporter and met the man who became her husband. She has lived in Clinton, Mississippi since marrying in 2010. Since she was a teenager, Elizabeth dreamed of starting a magazine to inspire teen girls. She is currently editor-in-chief of Real Girl Magazine and in her spare time loves to travel, enjoys good conversation with friends and loves to paint and write.
Niki Carter is a book-lover and librarian originally from
Elizabethtown, Kentucky but is now living in Mississippi. By day she is a student pursuing her Master of Art in Biblical Studies and a librarian and by night she is at the movie theater or playing with her pet hamster, Mr. Toast. Some of her favorite life experiences include traveling to foreign countries and sharing the love of Jesus to people of different cultures and languages. She loves being a Real Girl and meeting other Real Girls too!
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Jenny Wernly grew up in Gaithersburg, Maryland but now
lives in Milton, Florida. She has an English degree from Davidson College and a Masters of Education from Wake Forest University. As she followed her husband’s Navy career around the country, she had the opportunity to teach English in four states. However, now her English teaching involves more Dr. Suess and less Shakespeare as she is home raising her two fun and crazy young daughters.
Suzanne McDonough is from Kosciusko, Mississippi.
She graduated from Millsaps College with a Bachelor degree in Business Administration, from Mississippi State University with a Master of Science in Exercise Physiology and from the University of Mississippi with a PhD in Exercise Physiology and Health Promotion. She is married to Clay and has two college age children, Addie and Walker. She lives in Clinton, Mississippi and has been a professor at Mississippi College in the Kinesiology Department for five years.
Kelley Hendricks is an Alabama native who is currently
earning her Master’s Degree in School Counseling. She hopes to one day work in a low-income urban high school, where she will encourage teens to stay in school and to pursue higher education or any other career goal they may have. Her special interests include working with gifted students, multi-cultural counseling and putting an end to school bullying. Kelley has had the opportunity to study abroad in South Korea this summer and is excited to share some of the many things that she learned in the next issue!
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from the
mailbag
Dear Real Girl Magazine, I LOVE your magazine!! How do I subscribe to it? —Hallie
Dear Hallie, We are glad you love it! To subscribe to Real Girl Magazine, simply go to: www. realgirlmag.com. There is a subscription form you can download from the website and mail in with a check. It’s only $20 to get every issue delivered to your mailbox for a year! Subscribe by September 3rd so your subscription can begin with the fall issue! Dear Real Girl Mag, I love your magazine! I read a lot, but never magazines. I disliked magazines for a long time because they were so shallow and worthless. They had zero appeal to me because they had nothing I was looking for or they were just gross to look at and filled with gossip and hate. My sister told me about your magazine and I thought, “Oh great, another feel good, watered down, Christian magazine.” My sister bought it and gave it to me. It surprised me with how many things in it I really liked. I liked all of it! I convinced my mother to read it and she was in
agreement. I showed it to all my friends and my mom’s friends. We are even thinking of getting a girls group together to do the “Getting Real” column together. I cannot wait for your next issue and I hope you are able to print it! —Sarah Dear Sarah, Thanks for your many compliments and sharing the spring issue with your friends! Getting a group together to do the “Getting Real” column is a great idea. That’s why it was created- so it could be something fun you can do and learn things about yourself. This summer issue is online only; however, the fall issue will be in print. Subscribe today so you don’t miss out!
Hate us, love us or want more of us? What do you want to see in future issues of Real Girl Magazine? Send your questions and comments to: contact@realgirlmag.com
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Discover the Secret Behind the Story of Ruth. In the simple story of Ruth, there is a secret hidden from the casual reader. The key to unlocking the secret is found just below the surface and yields a deep vein of rich Biblical revelation. Allan Butt has discovered this secret and reveals it to his readers. It is fresh material which will forever change the way you read the Book of Ruth. Visit www.almondbranchministries.com or www.amazon.com to purchase
real girl at the movies
by Niki Carter
a summer sweet
Summer can be a whirlwind time of traveling and adventure for many, but if you’re like me, you might find yourself in the comfort of your own home for several weeks. Why not make the most of a stay-cation? Calling all film buffs, silver-screen specialists and movie mavens: summer break is a great time to watch old favorites and catch up on a few films you may have missed the first time around. One of my favorite movies to revisit is the Oscarnominated Chocolat (PG-13), based on a book of the same title by Joanne Harris. Set in the late 1950’s in a quaint French village in need of some excitement, this tale is as deliciously spun as the name suggests. One day the exotic Vianne Rocher (Juliette Binoche) and her young daughter mysteriously arrive at the town of Lansquenet and open a chocolate store among a humble community that has never experienced the decadence of regularly8
available treats. What the town can’t predict is the way the newcomers reinvigorate the town with more than just sweets, challenging the townspeople’s hospitality and sense of propriety. Vianne has a knack for determining every customer’s favorite chocolate treat, serving it up with grace and an offer of friendship. Making friends in a small, tight-knit community is not always easy, but Vianne is generally resilient and determined to win over the folks with her irresistible products. The town also becomes a temporary home to a band of traveling gypsies led by Roux (Johnny Depp), a handsome visitor who has many times felt the sting of being an outsider. As his friendship with Vianne develops despite the disapproval of many town leaders who despise the gypsies, individuals in the town are forced to analyze their own prejudices and decide if they will extend kindness
and decency to Roux’s rag-tag group. Many relationships in Lansquenet are tested and permanently change all because of the excitement of Vianne’s chocolate paradise. Chocolat is a feast for the senses. The rich cinematography brings the town to life and the abundance of chocolate will make the mouth water. (Perhaps this movie is best viewed with a supply of your own favorite chocolate treat!) The town is idyllic and the boat parties with the gypsies might inspire your own music party. The shining quality of the movie, beyond the all-star cast and the lively story, are the themes of love, friendship and
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The rich cinematography brings the town to life and the abundance of chocolate will make the mouth water.
”
acceptance, taught through the scrumptious medium of chocolate. Chocolat is a magical movie that, like any good treat, is worth sharing with a friend or two. Chocolat is available for rent on iTunes in both HD and standard definition.
summer skin care
THE GIRL WITH THE
PORCELAIN SKIN
by Gabriel Jones She really didn’t fit into our high-school setting. She was porcelain white and her giant sun hat stuck out like a sore thumb. Dark sunglasses shielded her eyes and she truly looked as if she was a famous actress lost amongst our high school. In reality, she was thought of as awkward. Every day she would take her beach bag filled with all sorts of unusual things and she would sit outside, not to bask in the sun but rather to sit under a giant shade tree. To put the icing on the cake, she would lather herself up with SPF 30 just for our short 20-minute lunch break. How often do you see yourself portrayed as the woman above? If I had to guess you probably desire the complete opposite. In fact, sunscreen is probably the furthest thing from your mind as you lay in the tanning bed for two extra minutes just to obtain that sought after golden glow. It seems throughout most of our young adult life we have everything dictated to us…how to look, what to wear, who to date, what our future should be. Out of all those things, we are often groomed to believe that a tan makes us more beautiful, appear wealthier and somehow
brings us to a place of social acceptance. What we are not told is that tanning comes with consequences. Overexposure to the sun or the ultraviolet (UV) rays your body is exposed to in a tanning bed can cause series health issues. Health issues can include skin cancer, eye damage and even immune suppression. Melanoma is the most dangerous form of skin cancer that is caused from excessive exposure to UV rays. Understanding the risks of overexposure and taking the necessary steps to prevent damage is vital, especially at a young age. I encourage you to put skin care on the top of your “to do” list this summer. Here are some things you can do to get a bronze finish without putting yourself at risk. Tan Gradually— Instead of lying out all day or in a tanning bed with no sunscreen in hopes for an instant tan, focus on tanning gradually. Wear tanning oil or lotion with SPF to prevent burning and minimize length of time in the sun or in a tanning bed.
•
sunscreens only protect against the UVB rays. These rays are the ones that burn you and are stronger in the summer. UVA rays, which will cause wrinkles, are in effect all year long and are common even when the sun is not shining. I recommend the use of Mary Kay Sun Care Sunscreen Broad Spectrum or Banana Boat Ultra Defense Broad Spectrum. Try Self-Tanners—A great way to get the golden glow and protect you from the sun is to use a self-tanner. These are typically found in lotions that also help moisturize your skin and keep it healthy. Self-tanning lotion can be purchased at any drugstore. A few of my favorites are Vaseline’s Healthy Body Glow, Hawaiian Tropic’s Island Radiance Self-Tanner, Jergen’s Natural Glow and Mary Kay’s Subtle Tanning Lotion. Looking back to the beginning of this article, our porcelain white diva may have had the right idea. Whatever look you may be going for, remember to be smart in the sun!
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•
Use Broad Spectrum Sunscreen—Make sure your sun-screen is “broad” spectrum meaning it protects against UVA and UVB rays. Several
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crafty corner
y k n chuOmbre
by Becca Campbell
necklace
Ombre is a color effect that makes items
look faded from a bold color on any material. It’s a color effect that is in style for the summer and with this DIY necklace you’ll be looking hip for under $10! I purchased the paints and chain and already had the other items. Total cost for craft would be around $15-20, but don’t forget to get a Hobby Lobby coupon for the Mod Podge! www.hobbylobby.com
Step One
what you w ill need 2 pac
ks of wood en beads (two differen t sizes) 1 gold chain necklace 1 bottle of w hite acrylic paint 1 bottle of co lored acryli c paint (Choose a co lor that’s YO U!) Mod Podge (Matte) Toothpicks 2 paper pla tes 1 small pain t brush
r Decide how you want you and like k loo necklace layout to te. pla er pap lay them on a
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Step two
mark numbers On a separate plate arker that m with a permanent any beads your m w ho correspond to necklace will be.
Step three
nt onto each section, Pour a small amount of pai of room to add white making sure there is plenty play with the colors to in paint and mix. Now beg a small amount of on your pallet by adding white to each number.
to bead #1.
d any white paint Hint: Do not adfu bers get ll-color. As the num That will be your bead ite paint. The final higher, add more wh lor. co ite with a hint of should be almost wh
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Step four
Play around with the paints, and don’t be afraid to add more white! Use toothp icks to mix in the small area. M ake sure that your colors are ge tting lighter as th e shade moves, and if you need to , make more num bers on the plate to create diffe rent options. For my necklace I skipped a few of th e colors because I didn’t like the way it turned out. When you’re read y to paint, use the brush to pain t ONE bead at a tim e. When that bead is finished, rinse and wipe yo ur brush off.
STEP FIVE
d put on a second painted, go back an Once all beads are ve rich color. e sure your beads ha coat. This will mak u finish a second yo e es from the tim ut in m ten t ou ab Wait t brush to spread a ad and use the pain coat on the last be ad. Don’t worry, it Podge onto each be thin layer of Mod int from getting helps protect the pa will dry clear! This onto your skin.
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have dried, Once the beads be strung to y they are read Wear with n! ai ch onto your a summery a funky print or re all set! u’ blouse, and yo
be you be bold y be craft
everyday advice
ask JACKIE How far can a girl go with her boyfriend, whether it is kissing or sex? —need to know
Song of Solomon states that we shouldn’t awaken love before it is time. Why? Sex is like fire. In the right context, it provides comfort, warmth, purifies and is life giving. On the other hand, if it is used inappropriately, it destroys homes, life giving vegetation, etc. There have to boundaries for everything—it is security. God gave sex to his people so that inside those boundaries can be the very things fire can do in the right situation. Those boundaries are provided by a marriage that has been vowed before God and man, as well as a legally binding contract. We can’t handle it outside of it because there’s no security. It actually destroys us. As to how far we can go...I wouldn’t do anything with someone that I couldn’t do in front of others. God gave you one body. Treat it as the temple of the Holy Spirit. You are not an animal as our culture teaches us. Guys can control themselves and must do so. If we allow our “feelings” or hormones to drive our actions then do we love our brother as ourselves or are we being selfish and fulfilling our own needs? Do we love his future wife as a sister in Christ? Remember, you can NEVER solve an emotional issue with a physical answer. Don’t be Esau who lost his entire future because of one moment of desiring something so much 14
that he was willing to forfeit everything. Instead of focusing on how far we can go...focus on what other dimensions you can get to know about them. What are his dreams, fears, etc? Remember, great friendships make great marriages. The physical part is only a portion.
Why are guys so stupid? —smarty pants supreme Yes, we are definitely the
smarter, more compassionate, prettier, more hygienic, and fashionable of the two. Of course, we knew that. We are wired differently and yes it does drive us crazy. Think, if we were both alike would there be a need for both us? We each have strengths and weaknesses. Many guys think linear and logically. They are not driven by emotions. Unfortunately, they can’t read our minds or interpret our hidden signals. It’s like a house. The guy provides the frame which is sturdy and sometimes hollow. We add the decor. We are much more complicated and it is hard for them understand our complexity when they operate more like a robot. What do we do? Surely God knew what HE was doing when he created us differently. So, we must find that person who can help strengthen your weakness while you do the same for him. If you love to shop, maybe you should look for a guy who can budget well. This way you don’t spend the rest of your life in financial turmoil. Don’t look at them as
stupid but as someone with a different set of strengths. We have enough drama! What would we do if guys had as much drama as us..whew.
Why are girls always attracted to guys who are absolutely no good for them? —just wondering in Mobile, Alabama Sometimes, our brokenness
blinds us to our value. So, insecure guys prey on girls who they can control so that they don’t have to worry about the girl cheating on him. We are attracted to what we think we aren’t. They then brainwash the girl into thinking she can’t do any better so that she won’t try to leave him. Remember though, you can’t change a guy and never take a guy on as a project to fulfill some need in you. If you are a “fixer”, be very careful. You don’t need to ever “fix” the person you are dating or plan to marry. He should be your “helpmate”. He can’t change for you! He must change for him. A broken him and whole you will leave you miserable.
Why does it always make girls feel better to talk about each other? -love to talk in Louisiana One word ladies:
INSECURITY. We must control that tongue. A truly happy girl who is at peace will only want the best for others. She will not be in competition with others because she is
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happy with herself and leaves nothing to prove. Let me hear the words you speak, you will show me how you feel about you. Building someone up is not putting yourself down. Likewise, putting someone down doesn’t build you up. On the other hand, building someone up will actually build you up. Try it. See if you don’t feel a little better after saying something nice when you had the opportunity to speak ill of someone. Additionally, it’s a cultural thing...girls hear other girls talk about each other so that you think it’s the norm. Break the cycle. Rise above it. Do what others can’t—tame your tongue.
Send your questions to:
askjackie@realgirlmag.com
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FRIEND ”Ais someone
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DARE to be yourself. FRANK CRANE
” summer pics
“From the rising of the sun the same, the Lord’s name is high above all nations a heavens.” Psalm 113:3-4
n unto the going down of e is to be praised. The Lord and His glory above the
Getting
Real by Jessica DeHart
gifts being all you were
D
o you feel like you have to be good at everything you do? Do you secretly wish to be perfect? Many girls your age feel this way, driven by competitive pressures. Fortunately, the truth is you weren’t born to be good at everything, and you certainly weren’t meant to be perfect! Nope. No one was. It is time to cut yourself some slack. You were called to do a handful of things exceptionally well. Those things are your gifts. We use our gifts to fulfill our purpose. Your purpose is where your gifts and dreams meet the world’s needs. So now you have a puzzle to solve! You need to discover your purpose. Let’s begin by understanding gifts. What is a gift? A gift is a talent, strength, or something you do better than most people. We all have many gifts. Has anyone ever said to you, “You make that look easy,” Or “You’re a natural at that!”? Chances are, they were talking about one of your gifts. How did you get your gifts? According to Marcus Buckingham, New York Times bestselling author of Now, Discover Your Strengths, we acquire all of our gifts by age sixteen. Sixty days before you were born, your brain started connecting billions and billions of neurons in your brain. These connections are called “synapses.” By the time you’re sixteen, half of those synaptic connections will fade away because they are weak connections that you don’t need. No worries though, that
created to be
is the way it is supposed to be. The synapses that remain connected in your brain are your wonderful gifts. No one in the history of the world will ever have your same package of gifts. You are that special and necessary. Putting your gifts to work is how you can add unique value and make the world a better place. So how do you know when you’re using your gifts? When you are using your gifts, you: • Feel connected to the world • Are energized • Feel happy • Are highly focused Have you ever been in your room and your mom barges in screaming, “Don’t you hear me? I’ve been yelling your name for 15 minutes!” She is so red-faced mad but you really never heard her. Well chances are, you didn’t hear her because you were so absorbed in one of your gifts. So what are your gifts? Think back to when you were younger. That is a fabulous place to start! Did you know that when you were four, five, six, maybe even ten years old, you used your gifts most of your free time? You naturally gravitated toward them. That is just what we humans do. Today you are so busy with chores, responsibilities, activities, choir practice, homework, sports and other activities that, unfortunately, give you little free time to enjoy your gifts. 21
So think back , what was your absolute favorite thing to do when you were younger?
Why did you like this activity so much? In other words, what innate gifts could you have been nurturing while enjoying this activity?
Did you ever make up a game? If so, why you liked it so much? What was your favorite part of the game? In other words, what gifts could you have been honing as you played this game?
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What was your favorite T V show or T V channel to watch when you were younger? Any idea why it was so interesting to you? Did you ever have a collection? If so, what was the collection? What interest or gift do you think that collection represents? When you were younger, did you win any contests or awards for doing something well? If so, what is it you did so well?
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Now think about today. Put a check by
any gifts that describe you. Now if you have to think to yourself, “Do I love puzzles?” Then you probably shouldn’t check the Loves Puzzles box. But when you come across a gift and it’s like, “Oh yea, I Enjoy Cooking!” then be sure to check that box. Go for it!
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A good communicator Good at encouraging others
Fast runner Good eye-hand coordination
Positive Organized
Knows a lot of trivia A leader
Smart A trendsetter Extremely honest Loves writing Great storyteller A tinkerer Loves to study other cultures Enjoys cooking Has a good sense of direction Good at follow through Physically strong Loves playing sports Loves puzzles Loves the outdoors Flexible Efficient Loves helping people A great musician Has a good memory A good guesser Good at numbers or facts Observant A good listener A people person A good planner Creative Makes up songs
Good at organizing things Invents things Good memory Funny Good at public speaking Strong intuition Loves reading Good caregiver Loves selling things Good problem solver Can throw far Animal lover Interested in other people’s lives Kind Always knows current news stories Thoughtful Good at keeping other people’s secrets Easily understands computers Loves to build things Loves to take things apart Loves to garden Good direction follower Loves traveling Loves to teach others Very polite Loves exercising Good predictor
Good ear for music
Good sense of what is right & wrong Good eye for detail Athletic
More about today.
Whether we realize it or not, we play a role in our families. Some us are the caregiver, entertainer, organizer, the honest one that tells it like it is, planner, peacemaker, nurturing compassionate one, comedian or the person that holds everyone accountable? These are just some of the many roles we may play.
What is the role you play in your family? What role do you play in your circle of friends?
Since sometimes we don’t see our own greatness, take the time to ask a few people - your best friend, teacher, coach, parent, aunt, neighbor or a loved one“What do I do better than most people?� You may be surprised of their answer. Write their answers below.
What is your easiest class in school?
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If you have free time on Saturday mornings, what would you chose to do? What clubs, sports or extra activities do you love to do?
Have you won any awards in middle school or high school for doing something well?
What is your favorite type of show on T V?
You have written down so many gifts of yours! Did you know you were so talented? It is okay if some of the answers repeated, as that is a sure sign that you are noticing a gift.
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To wrap up your gifts,
look at the Gift Categories listed below. Most gifts fall into these categories. Check the 2 or 3 boxes that describe you best.
A Nature or Animal Lover Verbal, Speaker, Good With Words Mathematical, Logical Visual, Spatial Athletic, Physically Able Musical A People Person
It is important to have a strong sense of self and know where your talents lie. Using your gifts is where you’ll find your successes in life and how you will make the world a better place someday. By focusing on your talents and gifts, you can spend less time competing for prizes and attention in areas where you stand little chance of success. By investing time in your strengths, you can get more done and reduce the pressures of our life and enjoy your time more. You aren’t supposed to be anyone but you. Wonderful you! You are that special and necessary. Do what you’re good at and don’t worry about the other stuff! Let your greatness shine for all the world to see. In the next issue you can take the next step in realizing your purpose by discovering your dreams!
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Tired of reading lame-o “news� about
celebrities? Do you think there is more to life than fashion? Then subscribe to Real Girl Magazine today!
Go to www.realgirlmag.com
to subscribe!
Real Girl Magazine is positive,
encouraging and uplifting! Each issue focuses on meaningful topics and celebrates being yourself.
I N S P I R I N G
T O D A Y ’ S
T E E N
healthy girl
H T L A HE s
by Suzanne McDonough, PhD
r e t t a m
Can teenagers safely participate in weight training and strength training? weight training: The use of dumbbells, barbells or machines against resistance
strength training: Using various methods of
applying resistance to movement to increase one’s ability to exert or resist force. You can use free weights, machines, body weight, or elastic rubber tubing to do strength training. Twenty-five years ago experts did not advise weight training and lifting weights by teenagers for two main reasons. One reason was that teens just didn’t need it. Teenagers of the 1970’s and before were a fairly active group, which provided adequate strength and muscle development and kept excess weight gain low. However, the average teenager now lives a relatively sedentary lifestyle, causing teens, on average, to be three times as overweight as teenagers of the 1970’s. As a result of inactivity and overweight status, today’s teens need specific weight and strength training to compensate for their sedentary lifestyles. The other reasons experts did not make weight training recommendations were the risk of overtraining 30
muscles, damaging growth plates in the bones, and injuring the joint. All risks that have been shown to be untrue and are now considered outdated myths. Basically, all credible organizations (American College of Sports Medicine (ACSM), American Academy of Pediatrics, American Orthopedic Society for Sports Medicine and the National Strength and Conditioning Association) now ignore these old-fashioned myths and support weight and strength training for teens. In fact, with the increased sitting time and less active lifestyles of teens, the ACSM now recommends it! Supported by multiple studies, ACSM now states that teens can safely participate in weight/strength training, as long as it is not on consecutive days and the
weights are not too heavy. ACSM further advises that light weights, rubber tubing, and using your own body weight are seen as effective tools for improving overall physical strength and muscular tone. Because teens respond differently to weight training than adults, there are a few things to consider when deciding on a strength and conditioning plan. First, physical development occurs at different rates in teenagers. Depending on genetics, sport participation, and motivation, weight lifting can have a wide variety of results on your body, especially your physical appearance. Due to these vastly varying effects, you should not compare your results with other teens. Monitor you own improvements and use the mirror test. Do your muscles look more toned and have a smoother appearance? Most teenagers I talk to are worried about getting “too” big and losing flexibility. Proper strength and weight training by a teenager will rarely result in very large muscles. What properly trained teens do report is greater feeling of strength and reduced body fat. As far as the
“
Proper strength and weight training by a teenager will rarely result in very large muscles. What properly trained teens do report is greater feeling of strength and reduced body fat. risk of decreased flexibility, most teens do not report this problem provided they are not trying to follow adult guidelines for weight training or lifting inappropriately heavy weight. If you remain concerned about flexibility, I recommend participation in some flexibility and stretching exercises to complement your strength and weight training. (We’ll tackle these exercises in the next issue of Real Girl.) Second, your weight training program needs to be tailored to your own goals. For instance, if you want to have toned arms and more muscular calves, then you must perform movements specifically for that area of your body. If you have access to a gym, ask them about a physical fitness assessment, body composition analysis, and a workout plan. Most gyms will provide these services for a nominal fee. A professionally tailored workout plan can be your ticket to the results you want and your body needs. However, professional plans are not absolutely necessary, as you can perform a self-assessment of your areas of strength and opportunities for improvement, and with a little research, can develop your own workout plan. Also, most toning exercises can be learned and performed at home, sometimes even while watching television. There is also the option of renting or
�
buying exercise videos that are specifically for teens, which provide professional guidance often at a fraction of the cost professional services. The choices are endless at big box department stores and through online video streaming. Finally, please note that weight training is not just for looks. Weight training improves your metabolism, increases your sense of wellbeing, and improves things like agility and balance. So even though weight training might improve your outward appearance, the main improvements are on the inside. Now, for some specific recommendations to guide you in your strength building mission. Weight training is best done supervised by a professional. However, sometimes it is impossible to have access to a trained health and fitness professional with expertise and experience training teens. So, I have picked out a few exercises that target specific areas of the body that most teenage girls will be able to complete at home or with limited supervision. There is a little fitness recommendation acronym with which I want you to become familiar and commit to memory. It is called the FITTE Principle. It is as follows:
F = Frequency (no more than 2 X per week, not on consecutive days) I = Intensity (not too heavy; i.e., less that 5 pound dumbbells for most exercises) T = Time (less than 20 minutes) T = Type (upper body vs. lower body muscles) E = Enjoyment (have fun!) Included in this recommendation is the necessity of properly warming up by walking or jogging in place for at least five minutes before conducting the exercises and having at least five minutes to stretch and cool down after your weight training session. Therefore, an allotment of around thirty minutes two times per week will be ample time to get results from these exercises. Be sure to include your abdominal core work described and shown in the spring issue of REAL GIRL to complement your strength goals. The following photos and descriptions include modifications if you do not have the recommended equipment. Summertime is a great time for self-evaluation, workout development, and exercise implementation. Without the demands of school work and school related obligations, most of you have some free time in summer, so make the most of it and get FITTE!
31
healthy girl
UPPER BODY WORKOUT
Bicep curls
(3 sets of 10 repetitions) Stand with your feet shoulder width apart with palms facing upward and lift weights towards your chest (not touching your chest), lower slowly towards your upper thighs and repeat.
Triceps Extensions
(3 sets of 10 repetitions) Bend at the hips, put one hand on same side leg and extend dumbbell to near full extension and repeat.
Push-ups
(As many as you can) Lie on your stomach, flex elbows and rise to your hands and toes. Slowly lower your body until it nearly touches the floor. Repeat. If this is too hard, get on your knees and keep your lower body on the floor.
32
LOWER BODY WORKOUT Chair squats
(3 sets of 10) Stand with feet shoulder width apart and toes slightly pointed out. Tuck your tummy in. Slowly sit down until your upper thighs almost form a right angle. Rise and repeat. You can place a chair behind you and nearly sit down and then rise up and repeat.
Standing calf raises (3 sets of 10) Stand shoulder width apart with feet flat on the floor. Place chair in front of you for balance and rise up on your toes and back down to feet flat and repeat.
Lunges
(3 sets of 10) Stand with your hands shoulder width apart. Step forward with one leg allowing the back leg to drop to nearly parallel with the floor. Step back and repeat with other leg. Keep tummy tucked and back straight and repeat.
Recommended but not required equipment: •3-5 pound dumbbells •Resistive band
Cautionary Notes: 1. Always warm-up before weight training 2. Perform exercises smoothly – no swinging 3. Rest between sets 4. Do not hold your breath during exercises 5. Never lift very heavy weights 6. Always cool down after any exercise
NEXT TIME Flexibility - Do I really need it?
33
The Lost Daughter of Easa
Dr. David Henry, D. M. D.
by J. L. Mulvihill After falling through a portal, seventeenyear-old Elsie Lind awakens with amnesia and lost in a forest. She must draw on her instincts of self-preservation to escape ravenous wild beasts, goblins, demons, and a dark witch who knows the secret of her past. Locked deep within Elsie’s mind are haunting dreams and childhood memories that hold the key to her survival. She is now in the battle of her life; the struggle to claim her identity. However, bad choices and trusting in the wrong sort of guidance leave her a criminal on the run. Now, in this medieval realm where magic influences technology and beings of folklore are as real as the demons they fight, an ancient threat endangers the entire land. Her struggle allies her with two brothers conflicting with their own character flaws and dislike for each other. Between these three unlikely companions, an evil must be stopped before its power takes hold of Authora and The Lost Daughter of Easa.
www.elsielind.com
Dr. William L. Boteler, D. D. S.
GENERAL DENTISTRY 5935 Highway 18 West Jackson, MS 39209 Accepting new patients, Call for your appointment today!
(601) 922-7028
About the book Blueprints of Sir Michael, a book written primarily for Michael Joseph Jackson’s fans, discusses MJJ’s journey from his birthplace of Gary, Indiana, “Moonwalking” all the way to his worldwide stardom years. The story concludes with the end of the journey for this unmatched performer, the King of Pop. You can order Blueprints of Sir Michael through Ingram’s Books from the publisher at www.authorhouse.com, at Pentimento Books or at the Clinton Visitor Center.
AuthorHouse ISBN-10: 1449092640 ISBN-13: 978-1449092641 www.blueprintsofsirmichael.com
Join us for Worship Sunday | 10:45 AM
3000 Hampstead Blvd Clinton, MS 39056 601.924.562 Sunday | 9:00 & 10:45 AM, 6:00 PM Wednesday | 6:00 PM www.morrisonheights.org Morrison Heights Baptist Church exists to proclaim the greatness of God through Jesus Christ as the eternal hope of all peoples.
outdoor adventures
by Emily Suddath
When was the last time you got out and explored one of our nation’s national parks? If you’re lucky enough to live in the Pacific Northwest, or even visit it, you’ll notice that several national parks, national monuments, and the like are almost everywhere you turn. That of course makes exploring easy! You don’t have to be an experienced hiker to enjoy getting outside, and don’t worry, you don’t have to own a fanny pack either (unless you want to get one, that’s fine too)! Get ready to plan your family’s next vacation! In Washington State you’ll find beautiful Mount Rainier National Park. Would you believe that the mountain you see once you get there is actually an active volcano? It is, even if it doesn’t look like one. This volcano is
s mah Fall
Multono
covered in snow, surrounded by lush green trees, and blanketed with wildflowers. The park has several beautiful places to look and explore. If you have a camera handy, be sure to snap some shots of the awesome views available at this park. If you visit Mount Ranier with your family, you’ll have a blast checking out all of the things to do here, as well as see! Sometimes you don’t have to even leave the car- though you’ll probably not stay inside the car for long if you want to take a good picture! 36
Mt. Ranier National Park
Just east of Washington is Glacier National Park in Montana. If riding horses is your thing, you should be sure to check out the horseback tours of this beautiful part of the country. What a unique experience! There are also over 700 miles of hiking trails available in Glacier, but don’t try to conquer them all at once. You’ll appreciate the beautiful blue Lake McDonald and also the vintage red buses that allow you to tour the sights without driving. In Oregon, you’ll find that this state is very, very green. While not all of the state is covered in green Evergreen trees, it sure will seem like it once you arrive there. Right outside of Portland is the Columbia River Gorge National Scenic Area. If you enjoy seeing waterfalls upon waterfalls, you’ll really enjoy the Columbia River Gorge. The most famous waterfall in this region is Multnomah Falls. Walk up a path and you’ll eventually find yourself on a cross bridge that is right in front of a raging waterfall. It is an awesome experience and something you’ll probably never forget. Around these waterfalls are several scenic points of interest. Just follow the roads in the area and you’ll be sure to see waterfalls to the left and right of you. You may even see some people getting married—the town that the majority of the falls are
located in is called Bridal Veil. Makes sense, right? Lastly, Yosemite National Park is located in Northern California, about four hours away from San Francisco. If your family has ever mentioned going to Yosemite, get excited! Yosemite is one of the most beautiful areas of the United States. There are several high mountainous rocks here, one of which is called Half Dome. Ever look at the logo on a The North Face jacket? The person who designed the logo based it off of Half Dome, which is found inside of Yosemite. You don’t have to be a rock climber or ark a al P ion
at eN
t emi Yos
geologist to enjoy the park’s rocky landscape though. You can tour Yosemite by bus and see the beautiful waterfalls, trees, and wildlife that the park has to offer. If you visit in winter, be prepared to ski, but if you visit in the spring, get excited about all of the park’s waterfalls that will come to life once the snow begins to melt.
books we love by Jenny Wernly
If you’re looking for a fun summer read that will inspire you, entertain you, and make you think about family, friendships, and what it means to belong, this novel is it. Mare’s War, by Tanita S. Davis, has two storylines. In the present, the novel follows two sisters on a road trip with their grandmother Mare, who is anything but ordinary with a sports car, fake nails, and stiletto heels. As they drive across the country, teenagers Tavia and Tali learn details about their grandmother’s past role in the African American Battalion of the Women’s Army Corps in World War II. When Mare arrives at army training, she comments, “The U.S. Army is just not ready for all of these women up in here.” She gives details that are both funny and shocking
about the daily lives of women soldiers in the 1940s. However, the novel is not a “war story” – there aren’t battle scenes or gory details about blood and guts. Instead, Mare’s War focuses on the ways people handle challenge and change. You’ll read quickly, curious about how Mare’s life experiences in the war will affect her granddaughters, who are just learning about this part of Mare’s life.
ters, and I have a hunch you’ll find someone who reminds you a bit of yourself. You might identify with Tavia and Tali, the teenage sisters who are more than a little annoyed to be traveling with their grandmother instead of hanging out with their friends during summer vacation. The more they hear of their grandmother’s past, the more the sisters are forced to re-evaluate their judgments about Mare and think about the kind of women they want to become. Perhaps you will identify with Mare, who feels confused about her purpose until she joins the army at seventeen and finds herself with a whole new and strange community. Her tone is hilarious, but also vulnerable, and you get inside her head as she struggles with homesickness and fear and the complicated role of being an African American woman in a man’s army. You won’t be able to help admiring the bravery
Mare’s War focuses on “ the ways people handle
”
challenge and change. The novel alternates between the two stories in the past and present. It weaves common feelings and experiences together that transcend their time periods: responsibility for a younger sibling, the challenge of learning to drive, insecurity in a new place, and the realization that relatives often have surprising wisdom to share. You’ll like these charac-
and loyalty that she develops in all kinds of unpredictable situations. Mare’s War explores a wide range of themes in a readable and often humorous way. Start your summer relaxation by curling up with this novel; you won’t be sorry.
37
the time
KEEP IT
to the
know who you are a beautiful
LIFE
by
set
and fullest do it HEIDI CHEATHAM
B
eing a teenager can be such an exciting time of life, but it can also bring many challenges. These challenges that come your way can take away the enjoyment of living the full life that you were created to live if you’re not ready for them. God has made a way to help you with all that comes your way. The secret is just looking to Him for direction that He is so gladly ready to give. If you are interested in how to look to God for direction in order to live out the full life He created you for, here are some tips that will help you on the journey. It will take effort, but it’s so worth it!
First, know who you are!
You are a beautiful creation of God. He made you with a plan and purpose. Psalm 139:14, “I am fearfully and wonderfully made…” This verse is talking about you, as well! God made you wonderfully. He made you with certain gifts and abilities that you can use for Him. If you like to sing, do it for him. If you like to dance, do it for him and be an example for God on your dance team. If you like to blog, do it as a chance to write about Him. If you have a fun personality, use it to get to know others and then you can encourage them and point them to God.
Then, keep it simple!
In the Bible there was a man who was trying to ask Jesus tricky questions. Of course he couldn’t trick Jesus but he tried anyway. In Matthew 22:36-37, the man asked what the greatest commandment was (in other words, 38
SIMPLE
are
with GOD
for
time
direction
god spend
living
you
look to
CREATION
OF GOD
he was asking what’s the one thing I need to focus on the most in life to please God?) and Jesus had the answer. He said that the one thing that was the most important thing in life is to, “Love the Lord your God with all you heart and with all your soul and with all your mind. This is the first and greatest commandment…” So, focus on that one thing each and every day… loving God. Love Him with all that you are and everything else will fall into place. Give Him all of your heart, give Him all of your mind. Actually give Him all of you.
spend time with God
Also, . This is part of loving Him with all that you are. In order to love Him, you have to spend time with him to get to know Him. Part of spending time with God is prayer, and prayer is not meant to be hard. It’s simple. Just talk to God about everything that’s on your mind. He’s listening and He cares for you. Also, when you spend time with God, make sure you have a Bible to read that you can actually understand. There are different versions that have the same meaning, but use different words to communicate the same message. You get to choose the version that works for you. I would recommend the NLT (New Living Translation) or the NIV (New International Version). Choose your version and get started on reading. If you don’t know where to start, start reading in the book of John and read one chapter a day and then keep going from there.
“that
enjoy the life
One last thing about spending time with God is to guard that special daily time like it’s a date. It’s easy to let the time slip away if you don’t plan and set a certain time aside. You’ll look up and your day will be gone and that special time will never have happened. Just set the time and do it. If you miss a time, just start over the next day. And last, but not least… find Christian friends. It’s so important to have teen friends that will help you grow in your walk with God, sharing that common bond. Get involved in a church youth group as you can all grow together and have a lot of fun doing it. Remember, take all of this one day at a time and enjoy the life that God has created you for — a life of knowing Him and loving Him. He gives the fullest life and with Him, you will not be disappointed.
GOD has created you for
— a life
of knowing
and loving
HIM
HE GIVES
life the fullest
be“ and with him you will not
disappointed!
After reading this you may wonder more about how to have a relationship with God. Know that He has made a way for you to know Him through sending His son, Jesus, to die for your sins. All you have to do is believe and accept this gift. 2 Corinthians 5:21 explains it well by saying, “For God made Christ, who never sinned, to be the offering for our sin, so that we could be made right with God through Christ.” Romans 10:13 explains how to respond as it states, “For everyone who calls on the name of the LORD will be saved.” If you would like to pray to God and receive Christ as your Savior, you can do it right now, just call out to Him. If you have made this decision to believe and follow Christ we would love to know!
delectable delights by Jordan Fessehaie
georgia peaches & cream rangoons Ingredients
1 can (15 oz.) of peaches I package (8 oz.) of cream cheese (do not allow to reach room temperature) wonton wrappers vegetable oil confectioners’ sugar
1.
2.
Drain peaches and slice into 1/4” pieces
3.
Cut up cold cream cheese into 1/4” pieces Lay wonton wrappers out flat
4.
Divide the peaches and cream cheese evenly among the wonton wrappers 40
5. Roll wontons vertically to close and press edges with fork to seal
7.
6.
Heat oil to 350 degrees
Carefully place wontons in hot oil
9.
8.
when they have reached a light brown, cooked color, remove from oil drain on paper towel or wire cooling rack
10.
sprinkle with powdered sugar while still hot for an extra kick of sweetness, drizzle with caramel sauce
enjoy!
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Make a Difference
a
re you bored this summer and tired of watching reruns on TV? Has the surfing the internet and having your eyes glued to a screen made you feel like a zombie? If you’re looking for some real fun and want to make a difference, then find somewhere to volunteer. Volunteering is an excellent way to give back to your community while learning new things about yourself. It provides valuable opportunities to gain experiences in a potential occupational field, gain knowledge of useful skills, and meet some cool, new people. Do you love animals? Have you thought about being a veterinarian or farmer? An animal shelter may be just the place for you. Many animal shelters need volunteers to walk, clean, and train the dogs and cats. You’ll get all the love and fun of having pets without having to be stuck with all the vet bills. Have you ever thought about becoming teacher? Do you enjoy kids? Ask your local schools and churches if they have any summer camps that need helpers for their programs. There are also many children who could also benefit from tutoring during the summer. Thinking about becoming a nurse or a doctor? Then, consider volunteering at your local hospital or nursing home and brighten up the lives of the people who are staying there. You can learn a lot about the healthcare field while observing what goes on in a hospital.
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VolunTEEN Nation is a great organization to check out. Contact them to see how you can volunteer where you live! info@volunteennation.org (314) 467-8336 *put this info. About VolunTEEN Nation in a box or special area.
great Other
volunteer opportunities include: — Hold conversation group for people who don’t speak English as their first language — Help out at your local library. — Ask your elderly neighbors if they need any help running errands or taking care of their yards. — Host a car wash or bake sale to benefit your favorite charity. — Go to your City Hall and volunteer to help with any upcoming events. I hope you’ve gotten some ideas for fun ways to spend your summer while serving others around you. Volunteering your time is a decision you won’t regret. Plus, you’ll make memories and form friendships that will last long after your summer is over!
& Start Volunteering
By Joy Allen
Summer Reading Picks SOUL SURFER DEVOTIONS by Jenny Wernly
by Bethany Hamilton
Want to hear some thoughts from a professional surfer about prayer, faith, peer pressure and other common issues? Bethany Hamilton’s devotional, geared for teenagers; shares wisdom she’s gained as she’s navigated many challenges, including losing one of her arms.
the
jerk magnet
by Melody Carlson
Do you wonder how to be yourself around someone you like, or how to choose a crush worthy of your attention? Should guys even be your focus? What is important and unique about you? How can you find an identity when there are so many lies out there about what really matters? If any of these thoughts sound familiar, you’ll enjoy reading this novel about Chelsea as she tries to figure it all out and you’ll probably even learn something about yourself in the process.
Green’s Not Your Best Color
by Mieka Phillips
This book includes thoughts about topics that you or someone you know has surely dealt with – fear, perfectionism, eating disorders and more. Perhaps you’ll find wisdom for your life in subjects such as “Ugly Grudges” or “Anytime Now, God.” Each reflection is followed with questions to help you think about how you deal with each of the topics in your relationships.
MEAN GIRLS by Haley Dimarco
If you have questions about popularity, quality friendships, or you are wondering how to deal with a “beauty turned beast,” this book will give you Biblical advice about handling each of those challenges. 43
y p p SO Ha
music to our ears by Laura Titre
Of Monsters and Men: My Head is an Animal
Brought together by happenstance to enter a battle-of-the-bands competition in their native country of Iceland, the six members of the folk-indie pop group Of Monsters and Men have brought their enigmatic music to the United States. Their instrument line-up includes acoustic guitars, percussion, piano, accordion, and trumpet to go with both male and female voices. Inspired by storytelling and the wintry countryside of Iceland, the group performs original works that are raw and beautifully composed. To get an idea of their unique sound, envision the fictional imagery reminiscent of
the book “Where the Wild Things Are” with poignant folk portraits of the Nordic island. Threaded with the title of the album, “My Head is an Animal,” each song sketches a distinctive tale alongside strands of oceanic, woodsy, and animal-like themes that are left to the listener to interpret. With occasional stomps, clapping, shouts of “Hey!” and singing the melodies using the syllable “la,” the group simulates old-world, singsong sounds as in the piece “From Finner.” Unlike some indie pop groups, the poetic duet of lead singers Nanna Bryndís Hilmarsdóttir and Ragnar Þórhallsson pervade the music, adding a subtle romance and tasteful whimsy to the lyrics, whether singing in unison or skillfully alternating their voices, heard in the song “Yellow Light.” From the feel-good beat of the hit “Little Talks” to the wistful and meditative solitude of “Slow and Steady,” Of Monsters and Men delicately invites listeners to feel an array of emotions, whether peaceful, frightened, soothed, energized, saddened or mystified. No matter the song, this is an album that is splendidly woven and executed with a contagious jubilance--“We are far from home, but we’re so happy.”
RELATING by Kelley Hendricks
It is not uncommon for parents and their teens to dispute over things like rules, responsibilities, privacy, and curfews that seem to limit your freedom.
S
ummer is here and that means it is time to make exciting plans. Instead of tests and homework, you can anticipate much more free time to have fun, relax, and enjoy yourself without having to worry about your grades. You may have a fun vacation with your family to look forward to, or even a summer camp that you can’t wait to attend. Regardless of what you have in store for this summer, you can guarantee one thing for sure: You are going to be spending a lot more time with your parents. Parents can be tricky. This is true at any age, but especially when you are a teenager. While you are maturing and becoming more of an adult, you may feel that your parents continue to treat you like a child, because in their mind, you still are one. This can be very frustrating. It is not uncommon for parents and their teens to dispute over things like rules, responsibilities, privacy, and curfews that seem to limit your freedom. These arguments can be detrimental to your relationship with your parents, and oftentimes they can lead to some serious consequences. And who wants to be grounded the whole summer over a fight with your parents? Parents have vivid imaginations. When you ask them if you can “go to a party,” they might conjure up all sorts of scenarios that may not even be close to the truth. Just remember that they were teenagers once upon a time too.
to Parents
Although there are differences between your generations, they are not exactly clueless about what it is like to be your age. Also, parents tend to watch the news regularly, and they very well may know of some serious dangers that naturally would not come to your mind. No matter how old you are, you are their child, and they are always going to be somewhat protective of your safety. This is human nature, and it makes it a little easier to understand why their first response always seems to be “NO” when you ask them to do things. To combat this, try voluntarily giving them information about where you want to go. Tell them who you will be with, and what you think will happen once you get there. Being up front with your parents can be used to reduce their fears and will help them trust you to make good decisions at that party. In general, people do not like to argue, particularly with their loved ones, which makes avoiding disagreements that much easier if you know what to do. Resolving conflict is a skill, but preventing conflict is a true talent. With practice, you will be able to make your life much easier and happier for both you and your parents. If you are willing to compromise, your parents may be more inclined to negotiate with you than you may think. Some of the easiest ways to do this are through open and honest communication, being responsible, and earning your parents’ trust. Above all else, remember that when you behave like an adult, you will more than likely be treated like one as well.
Canaan Baptist C hurch
Girl’s I nc. of Centra l Alaba ma
Real Girl Magazi
Pr o
ine Summer Tour
jec
tI ns ide Ou t
—
Gi
rl
Ta lk
June 6 -8, 20 12
Singing
Sisters By Elizabeth Bennett
D
id you know that cystic fibrosis is a life threatening genetic lung disease that affects about 30,000 children and adults in the U.S? About 1,000 new cases of cystic fibrosis are diagnosed each year and more than 70% of patients are diagnosed by age two. The predicted median age of survival for a person with CF is in the late 30s. Those are all startling facts. I had the opportunity to talk to Ali and Christina, two young ladies with CF and loads of talent. They have strong voices and huge hearts. What I learned about them put a smile on my face! Ali, 22, and Christina, 15, are sisters with CF who inspire others through their songs. The sisters are ordinary girls with extraordinary voices. Ali goes to Brigham Young University Idaho and is majoring in Broadcast Journalism. She hopes to be an anchor 48
on Good Morning America one day. Christina is a tenth grader at nearby Idaho Falls High School. She goes to school half a day and stays busy with traveling to perform at different events. Their mom is a singing teacher so music has been enrooted in them. Ali and Christina have discovered that they find strength in their voices. In 2009, Ali and Christina sang at the funeral of their older sister, April, who battled CF for years. In 2010, Ali and Christina sang together as finalists on NBC’s America’s Got Talent. They were excited to be on the show because music has always been a part of their lives and they had a message to share . Their message is that even though there are challenges, such as living with cystic fibrosis, you do not have to let your challenges define you or hold you back from pursuing your dreams. Ali and Christina inspire young women to
persevere no matter what. After being on the show, they wrote and recorded an inspiring song to raise awareness about cystic fibrosis. The song is called Something About Me and is about the girls’ experience living with cystic fibrosis . Dr. Susanna McColley is their doctor. She is a pediatrician certified in pediatric pulmonology. She is also the head of the Division of Pulmonary Medicine and director of the Cystic Fibrosis Center at the Children’s Memorial Medical Center in Chicago. Dr. McColley’s curiosity for CF was first sparked when she was growing up next door to her neighbor who had CF. The cause of CF was unknown when she first began studying it. “CF is an inherited disease that causes abnormalities in transmitted cells. There have been many advances since I was a young doctor. A lot of research going on now is to treat it at a cellular level. We are working on creating drugs that can modify the disease. My goals are for patients with CF to have a normal life expectancy. My personal dream is for faster and less burdensome treatments. Christina’s current treatment is 45 to 50 minutes, twice a day,” said Dr. McColley. Ali and Christina inspire a plethora of people, including their doctor. “It is inspiring to see Ali and Christina excel at such a young age. The main messages in their songs are positive, uplifting and inspiring. Working with CF patients has put things in perspective for me. When I look at little life problems, it’s not a big deal. I can’t complain about stuff like being stuck in traffic,” said Dr. McColley . “CF isn’t a very well known disease,” says Ali. “It can be fatal. We want to make CF stand for “’cure found.’” We ended our conversation with some words of wisdom from Dr. McColley, Ali and Christina. Dr. McColley said, “Take care of yourself whether you have a chronic illness or not. Take good care of
your body. It’s the only body you are going to have. There is something special about you. When you are feeling down or alone or sad, just remember that. Because you have a lot to offer the world and the world has a lot to offer you.”
Ali talked about the problem of bullying today and encouraged us to help stand against it. She said, “A huge issue facing a lot of young girls and boys today is being bullied. We all can live up to our potential and stand up for other people. Actually, one of the songs on our CD is about bullying. We just finished filming a music video for the song called “The Same Way ” and it is on YouTube . We got to film it in our hometown and all the actors in the video have been victims of bullying. I think bullying needs to be solved and we all need to be an advocate of it.” Christina wants real girls to “follow your dreams and be yourself. Always have a positive attitude about everything and never let anyone get you down.” Ali and Christina are two exceptional young ladies. You can log onto www. CFvoice.com to get a free download of Ali & Christina’s song Something About Me. The song will inspire you to have a positive attitude even throughout obstacles and not give up! 49
summer pics
“You
LEARN
something
every day if you
PAY ATTENTION.” Ray LeBlond
My BEST FRIEND By Sophia Bayles
The last two years of junior college had proven to me that friendship was not my thing. So as I opened the door to my brand new dorm room I dreaded who my roommate was going to be. The name on the door read Darka Miric. As I attempted to imagine what a girl named Darka would be like I could have never imagined the amazing friend this girl would be. Darka Miric was born in Bosnia which is a southeastern European country on the Balkan Peninsula. During Darka’s childhood, Bosnia was involved in a war that resulted in the creation of Bosnia-Herzegovina, Croatia, and Serbia from what was formerly Yugoslavia. During the war, approximately 100,000 to 110,000 people were killed and 2.2 million displaced. Those who were not displaced were left to rebuild their lives. Darka’s mother not only rebuilt but dreamt a brighter future for her children. In her dream, her daughters would be successful classical guitar players. Mrs. Miric started Darka and Tanja on their classical path by enrolling them in music school as early as age 8. From that early age the sisters went to two schools at the same time. In the morning they would go to regular elementary school, and in the afternoon they would attend elementary music school. Attending two schools meant that some days Darka and Tanja would be in school from 7:30 am to 7:30 pm. Not only did they 56
attend school, but they were also required to practice their guitar lessons. The only time for practice was 4:15 am which gave them two hours before it was time for school again. About their second year of high school in 2000, Mrs. Miric read an article in Croatian Magazine about the most successful Croatians in the USA. There, she found out about a classical guitar duo, Dr. Miroslav Loncar and his wife Natasa Klasinc-Loncar. Mrs. Miric decided to write Dr. Loncar a letter explaining their situation. Darka still does not know what her mother wrote, but Dr. Loncar gave the Mirics a call all the way from the USA! The call was a big deal for them. Growing up in Bosnia during the war when it wasn’t considered wise to look forward to the future, Darka learned (wrongly) to not think about tomorrow. Dr. Loncar wanted Darka and her sister to come to his summer school that he conducts every year in Karlovac, Croatia. The Mirics were able to attend, and they both liked Dr. Loncar very much. That was their first time to attend any summer school, as well as the first time to hear a professional guitar recital. Dr. Loncar liked their playing and asked if they would like to study with him in the USA. Darka could not believe it. She had not received great encouragement from her previous guitar teacher to continue with guitar. Nonetheless, of course they said agreed, but in the back of her mind, she dismissed it as totally impossible.
“Darka is the kind of friend anyone would be BLESSED to have.”
In many ways the idea of impossibility and God’s power to overcome such has been a theme in Darka’s and even my own life. In her life Darka has seen how God pushes us to make us into new creatures. Even though it does not feel good at the time, and she would gladly escape it, God causes us to grow and mature for our own good. Darka did not want to come to America. She did not want to study with a new professor, but God in His grace brought her here, and she would not change her situation for anything. Through her experiences, Darka can see how God has given her family and friends she could have never, ever chosen. Darka would like for young girls to know that you live in your own circumstances and God has put you there for a reason. Today, both Darka and Tanja have continued their academic and musical achievement by earning advanced music degrees at Southern Methodist University, and are currently working on their doctorates in music at the University of Minnesota. Both Darka and her sister have endured a long and at times hurtful journey to get to where they are. Despite the tragedies Darka and Tanja have experienced, they have become very talented classical guitar players. Darka’s talent, however, is not why she became my best friend or why she is a real girl. Darka is a real girl and my closest friend because she is authentic, genuine, accept-
ing, merciful, and loving. With Darka you see her great heart and get her best. It would not be surprising if Darka had grown up to be a self-centered, arrogant, and uncaring individual. Instead, Darka is the kind of friend anyone would be blessed to have. As her roommate I had days when I was less than likeable, but on those days her unconditional love for me was strongest. The good in me was possibly easy to support. However, she was able to love me even through my difficult times. Very few of us have the talent my dearest friend has. Fewer still have grown up in the middle of a war that threatens to destroy her country and challenges her sense of safety. And yet we can be such unkind, resentful, self-centered, and fake creatures. Despite the hardships Darka endured since early in her life, she chose real acceptance and friendship. I want to reflect my Creator the way my best friend reflects hers.
57
“Learning is a treasure that will follow its owners everywhere.� Chinese Proverb
creative cats
Tempest By: Audrey Hall, age 17 What is my life, but a crazy tempest, A cloud broiling with rain, thunder, The occasional wild lightning. My heart is tied to the sky, Like the kite that yearns, To fly with free wings again. Thunder is my battle cry, Rain is my many tears, Lightening is my fleeting joy. Sun is my heart’s pure shine, Moon is my soul’s delight, Stars are my guiding light. Forever and always.
Do you want to see your art or poetry in the next issue? Send it to us at: creativecat@realgirlmag.com
59
R E SU M M
modesty by Alyssa
Shull
I
walked into Forever 21 and my eyes were drawn to the bikinis on display. Next to that were the skin tight skirts and those shorts that let everything hang out. Knowing I no longer wear those clothes I waltzed to the other sections of the store. But, my mind drifted to the thousands of teen girls buying those clothes (or lack thereof clothes) and my heart broke. If girls only knew the truth of what they were wearing and the effect it had then things would be different. 1 Timothy 2:9 says, “I want women to show their beauty by dressing in appropriate clothes that are modest and respectable.” So how do you dress modest and respectable in today’s culture? Especially with the variety of clothes they are selling in the stores. Now being modest doesn’t mean you can’t be stylish. In fact, I think you can be modest and stylish at the same time! How you ask? Wear long skirts and turtlenecks… 62
maybe not. Ever since I can remember I have been into style. In high school I would not even wear the same outfit within a month. I love being in style and wearing only what’s “in style.” And guess what? I am in style and modest. Ok, so how to be in style and stay modest…here we go: Let’s start with crop tops. These are the cute tops that are cut off at your midsection. I have so many of these shirts, I love how fun they are! I live in Miami, Florida and I can’t even begin to tell you how many girls I have seen wear these wrong. They wear the crop top without the tank top (yes, stomachs hanging out for all to see). Tank tops are an essential piece to my wardrobe. I have them in every color and style. I even have three black tanks and three white tanks just in case they are dirty. I always have one ready. I wear tank tops underneath everything. It’s my extra protection. So, to make crop tops
modest, throw a tank top underneath. Next up, let’s talk about cleavage. Let’s all be honest here, if a female is showing off her cleavage, you look. Not because you want to, but because she is offering it for all to see. It says in 1 Corinthians 10:32, “Don't cause others to stumble, whether they are Jewish, Greek, or members of God's church.” I take that passage to mean this: do your part to help someone NOT fall into sin. As a woman I strive to not portray my body in a way that would cause someone to lust. I believe when a woman purposefully shows her cleavage it sends out the message, “Hey here are my boobs, I want you to notice I have them.” If our goal is to get men to notice our body then our affection is in the wrong direction. We are not acting in love. We are acting in selfishness and our attempt is to bring attention to ourselves and not to God. As a believer we should never use our bodies to cause our brothers in Christ to sin. If you didn’t already know this… MEN ARE VERY VISUAL. It is the way God made them. Men are more visual and women are more emotional. As women of God, let’s make a conscience choice to not cause our brothers in Christ to stumble. Let’s not show off our breasts. Those are for your husband’s eyes only. Even if you’re not married yet they are for your future husband. So, how do you tell if you have cleavage? Bend over in front of the mirror and see if you can see your cleavage. If you can, put on a tank top and make sure it is high enough on your chest that it covers you. Summertime calls for skirts and dresses. Dresses are so fun and I wear them almost every other day in the summer. But, you have to make sure that the dress you are wearing isn’t revealing too much leg. The cut of the skirt or dress is what you should take into consideration before wearing it out in public.
The whole trend with wearing just a tee and leggings is majorly inappropriate. Leggings are for under clothes, not to be the clothes. They are extra protection not the only protection. First is length. Your skirt or dress should be long enough that if you were to bend over you don’t have to worry about your butt showing. Second is tightness. Your skirt shouldn’t be so tight that it shows every curve of your hips and butt. Third is material, make sure you can’t see your underwear line and that if the wind was to catch your skirt it wouldn’t fly up. A great way to solve the skirt and dress problem is another extra protection called leggings. I wear leggings under almost all my skirts and dresses (they come in almost every color). That way I don’t have to worry when bending over, wind blowing, walking upstairs, etc. Yet with leggings, make sure your butt is covered. The whole trend with wearing just a tee and leggings is majorly inappropriate. Leggings are for under clothes, not to be the clothes. They are extra protection not the only protection. Let’s talk shorts. In high school I was on the worship team at church and one hot summer day I came to Wednesday night youth group in short shorts. I had always worn short shorts and never thought anything of it. That night a leader pulled me off to the side and said ‘Alyssa your shorts are too short and I don’t want you up there on the stage because guys would be looking at your legs instead of worshipping God.’ At first I was so offended, but then it sunk in. I never saw it that way before. I always wore short 63
shorts because it was summertime and hot. I never even thought about what it did to guys. My advice with short shorts is: stretch your arms down the side of your legs and where your middle finger is on your thigh that should be the length of your shorts. Bras, Bras, Bras. Bras are so important in the summer. The type of bra that you wear with your tops makes a huge difference. Because showing your hot pink or leopard print bra straps totally gives of the wrong impression. There is an awesome bra that you can get at almost any bra store. It’s a strapless bra with changeable straps. It can be a razor back, regular, or one shoulder. I highly recommend getting one that way you save yourself from revealing undergarments. Another clothing trend to watch out for is clothing with suggestive meanings. Shirts with words across the chest that imply sexual meaning is something to steer clear of. For example, Nike’s Just Do It! across your chest, or I Am The American Dream. Also, corset tops are being sold as standalone tops to wear. But corset tops or lingerie tops are supposed to be between a man and his wife and not for everyone else to see. Summertime means POOL PARTIES! So for my next piece of summer modesty advice I have a serious question for you. Would you walk into a crowd of people and strip down to your bra and panties? Probably not, so why do we think it’s ok to wear bikinis in front of people? It shows the same amount of skin, it’s just made out of a different material. It is our culture that believes bikinis are socially okay and not a big deal. It’s simply what we wear to the pool. I disagree with this thought. There are many beliefs in the world that we as Christians should not embrace. We are in the world and not of it. Our bodies are not our own. They were bought at a price. It says in 1 Corinthians 6:20 “you were bought at a price. Therefore honor God with your body.” This body isn’t
something I can just do whatever I want with. I need to be honoring God with everything I do, and that includes the way I dress. You may be reading this, rolling your eyes, and thinking I am totally old school. But for the first 22 years of my life all I wore were bikinis. It wasn’t until he Holy Spirit convicted me three years ago that I started wearing bathing suits that had more coverage. So, if you are thinking I’m a crazy lady, take it to prayer, and ask God if a bikini is something you should be wearing or not. My husband and I asked ourselves once, “Will there be bikinis in the throne room of God?” Again, we are commanded not to cause someone to sin. The purpose of a bikini is either to look sexy or get a good tan. I don’t think either excuse is a good reason if it keeps men in bondage to lust. My advice is, get a non-revealing tankini or a one piece. Make sure you breasts, stomach and butt are well covered. Also, make sure the cut is not sensual. When you dress in a revealing way, you are saying to guys that you want them to see what you have to offer. This reality happens whether you mean to or not. Also you will usually just attract guys who want your body and not care about you personally. You want a man who will respect you and your body. The man you truly want will honor your body and not want you to show it off to everyone. The bottom line is this; look at yourself in the mirror before you walk out the door, and ask yourself, “Am I honoring God with this outfit?” I do this every day. There is no minimum or maximum age for modesty. It applies to all women.
So ladies, YOU CAN BE STYLISH & MODEST!
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