inspiring today’s teen
spring 2012
Why It’s Not Cool to Gossip
678.520.4617 / red-door-design.com
inside
this issue In Every Issue 3 10 11 13 15 17 18 25 28 35 74
Editor’s Letter From the Mailbag True Advice Books We Love Real Girl at the Movies Delectable Delights Crafty Corner Healthy Girl Outdoor Adventures Music Review Real Girl Art
Features 20 30 32 38 40 50 58 64 66 68 71
Meet the Teen Advisory Board Celebrate Earth Day Spring Accessories Kiss the Frog? Promapalooza Spring Fashion Libby Story Style Happy 100th, Girl Scouts! Cyber bullying Gossip: Harmless or Hateful? International Justice Mission Getting Real: Being All You Were Created to Be
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I N S P I R I N G
T O D A Y ’ S
T E E N
Publisher & Editor-in-Chief Elizabeth Bennett Assistant Editors Jill Marceau Erin McGough
Dr. David Henry, D. M. D. 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
Contributing Writers Erin Taylor Ally Ringer Niki Carter Lindsay Brett Emily Shanblatt Jenna Correll Suzanne McDonough Neesha Roberts Jenny Wernly Joy Allen Jessica DeHart Art Director Stephanie McGill (Red Door Design) Graphic Design Intern Caroline Brock Photography Erin Fults Heather Bryant Fashion Stylist Assistant Camie Crowe
Real Girl Magazine P.O. Box 2267 Clinton, MS 30960 601-529-7933
Spring is here! The grass is greener, flowers are blooming and the sun is shining! Our staff has been working diligently to produce a wonderful spring issue and we think you’ll like it. Some highlights in this issue include fun fashion and accessories, celebrating 100 years of Girl Scouts, learning why it’s not cool to gossip and Enter the Uniquely You Contest! prom festivities.
Write an essay entitled “What Makes Me Unique,”and you can win a photo shoot to be on the cover of the Fall 2012 Issue, a feature article written about you and a special gift basket filled great stuff! See all the details on page16.
This spring I am thinking about my ten year high school reunion which is right around the corner. I graduated from high school in May 2002 and am looking forward to seeing old friends and making new ones as we gather to celebrate. What are your plans, hopes and dreams for the summer? Are you planning to attend or work at a summer camp? What is your favorite camp memory? Write us and it could be in the upcoming summer issue!
We hope you enjoy reading this issue of Real Girl Magazine. Share it with friends and send us your thoughts, art, and poetry. Don’t forget to enter the Uniquely You Contest. You could win the opportunity to be on the cover of our fall issue and more! We need all submissions by June 26, 2012. Enjoy your spring!
Elizabeth Bennett Editor-in-Chief 3
by eriN FULtS
YOU ACORn
beautiful 2013
SENIOR
portraits
memories
unique
fun crea tive
601.460.0548 A C O R n S T u D i O P H O T O. C O M
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Real girl contributors and statistics, hoping to indirectly serve the scheduled castes and schedules tribes by analyzing and evaluating outcomes—and what a joy it has been! In her spare time she enjoys journaling, running, and good coffee.
Jessica DeHart was born and raised in Atlanta, Georgia. She married a wonderful man and together they have 3 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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Although Neesha Roberts wasn’t raised in Mobile, Alabama; she lived there longer than any other place (8 years) so she is a self-proclaimed Mobilian! Originally from Anniston, Alabama Neesha ventured to Mobile to attend the University of Mobile, (Go Rams!) where she obtained a BA in Theology. Her time at UM was life-changing as she engaged in academic discussion and spiritual accountability; it was such a powerful and formative four years for her, laying a solid foundation for future endeavors. Upon graduation, Neesha began to sense a calling to issues of human rights and social justice issues—and so far, her current commitment to this calling is embedded in her decision to pursue a MS degree in Community Counseling at the University of South Alabama and a fellowship with International Justice Mission. Right now she is embracing her first real-world work experience as an Aftercare Fellow in India where she is doing program development
Jenna Correll is a child of God and princess of the King. She is from Charleston, South Carolina and loves to write, read and sing. She has been a Real Girl since 2001 when she stood up to a bully who was making fun of other girls. Jenna used to care what others around her thought, but realized early that they didn’t matter. All that mattered was what her parents, God and herself thought about her. She loves softball, football, swimming, hats, shoes and scarves. Her ambition is to write a book. Jenna loves giving advice, seeking the Lord and being a Real Girl. She is a senior at Mississippi College and is studying public relations and journalism.
Lindsay Brett teaches theatre,
character ed and English as a Second Language in a middle school in Tupelo, Mississippi. 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! 7
Real girl contributors enjoys sewing and taking pictures of life around her. She dreams of going to Hawaii, running a marathon, and having a clean house. She and her husband are table leaders for Morrison Heights Baptist Church’s college program, The Path. Sarah Margaret Wade is
Kelli Lambert lives in
Lexington, Kentucky with her husband Josh and dog Zeke. Kelli teaches 9th grade English at Lexington Christian Academy as well as coaches the LCA cheerleading squad. Her life’s mission is to represent Christ in everything she does and challenge young ladies to be “real girls.”
Erin Taylor lives in Clinton, Mississippi with her wonderful husband Steve and adorable twin daughters Holland and June. She graduated from Mississippi College with a Bachelor’s degree and a Master’s degree in Education. After working as a teacher for six years, she is happy to have the opportunity to stay at home with her babies. Erin 8
Katelyn Wheaton is a blogger, crafter, and search engine optimizer living in Denver, Colorado. She loves to make things, share things, and meet new friends in the blogosphere through her craft blog Ninth & Bird. She’s always been a crafty person, but Ninth & Bird began with her desire to learn web design. After she designed her blog and started sharing projects, it became such an addiction! She loves teaching people how to make something on their own and spread ideas, creativity and inspiration to all her readers. She would love for you to join her in her community of crafters! Follow the her on Facebook, Twitter, Bloglovin and Pinterest.
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from Birmingham, Alabama and is a registered Professional Art Therapist (ATR) and an Associate Licensed Counselor (ALC). She earned her Bachelor of Arts (BA) in Fine Art and Interior Design from Samford University while minoring in psychology. Sarah Margaret received a Masters of Education (M.Ed.) in Counseling and Personnel Services with a concentration in Art Therapy from the University of Louisville in 2009. She is currently employed as Program Coordinator and Art Therapist for VSA Alabama, a non-profit with a mission to serve children and adults with disabilities and chronic illnesses through the arts. As an Art Therapist, she works with all ages, skill levels, & a variety of populations, including seniors with Alzheimer’s & dementia and children & adults with cognitive and developmental disabilities. Sarah Margaret enjoys creating and expressing through a variety of art media including watercolors, acrylics and fabric.
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.
Ally Ringer lives in Lexington, Kentucky with her wonderful husband, Eric. She graduated from the University of Kentucky with a degree in Community Communications and Leadership Development. Ally loves baking and cooking, and enjoys entertaining friends and family over a great meal. She also enjoys spending evenings with her husband playing competitive rounds of Scrabble.
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
Emily Shanblatt is originally from East Lansing, Michigan. She currently resides in Asheville, North Carolina, where she is a kayaking instructor for Girls at Play. She discovered whitewater paddling about five years ago, and has been pursuing kayaking as a personal endeavor as well as a career ever since. She loves to travel, and is always amazed at the wild and remote places rivers take her. Emily grew up attending an all girls wilderness adventure camp, and truly understands the power of sisterhood and female camaraderie. When she’s not on the river or writing for various blogs, Emily is often found mountain biking or playing soccer.
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.
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Dear Editor, I love your magazine! Is this just an online magazine or are you doing a print version? I would love to get a subscription for my teenage niece. Thanks for creating this magazine! — Christi
Dear Editor, I’m Ralyn! I was really interested in your magazine I thought it was full of good advice and fun things! When you were talking to us, you said that there was an essay writing contest and I was wondering- how do I enter that? — Ralyn Hi Ralyn, We are so glad you enjoyed reading the debut issue! The essay writing contest is our first annual contest called Uniquely You. It is going to be really fun! All you have to do to enter is simply write an essay about what makes you unique and fill out the contest entry form which can be found at www. realgirlmag.com. Then send us your essay, the entry form, $5 and a picture of you to enter. I hope to read your essay soon!
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Hi Christi, Thanks for writing us! Real Girl Magazine is currently an online magazine. However, we are working towards making subscriptions available for individuals such as your niece as well as bulk subscriptions for groups like schools and churches. Check the website for more information about subscription opportunities. The more readers, the better so help spread the word! Dear Editor, Wow! Your magazine is so needed in today’s world. I love it! — Jessica Dear Jessica, We are so glad you love it and appreciate your support and encouragement! Real Girl Magazine exists because we believe strongly in the mission of providing a positive and healthy alternative to what is on the market for young women today. Thanks for reading and share us with your friends!
Do you have a question, comment or suggestion about this issue? What would you like to see in future issues? We would love to hear from you!! Send your letters to: contact@realgirlmag.com or Real Girl Magazine, P.O. Box 2267 Clinton, MS 39060.
Ask Jackie
What do you do when a friend is in trouble? —Haley, age 13
First you must ask yourself a couple of questions. 1. Is this a life or death issue? If so, you must tell an adult or someone who can help. 2. Listen. God gave us two ears and one mouth for a reason. Many times people don’t want our opinion; they want our ears and a shoulder. 3. Help them see past the trouble. Give solutions and help them see life past the issue. Sometimes when we are overwhelmed by a situation, we become blinded by it. It’s like looking at a mountain and being unable to see the other side. Your job is to help them see that this too shall pass. For example, if your friend is pregnant, help her understand that she can be a great mother and life is not over. In fact, you could help her find services that help teen mothers. 4. Remind them that scripture teaches us that with every temptation, God creates a way out. How do you overcome anger? —Maria, age 14
Whew, this one is tough. First, what is the source of the anger? We have to get to the bottom of it. It’s like if you have a virus.
You can take meds, etc. that treat the symptoms but you have to take care of the virus before the actual problem is resolved. Next, remember that your body is experiencing a very tough time right now. Your hormones are changing, body is changing, emotions, etc. It’s very normal to experience bouts of anger when going through puberty. It’s important for us to find an outlet for our energy. I like to take a walk to clear my head. Sometimes, if I’m angry I’ll go serve someone who is less fortunate. It helps me put things into perspective. You can always use a journal, pray, write music, paint/draw, exercise, etc. We weren’t created to hold all of the emotions we experience. We must have an outlet.
Why can’t girls ask guys out or to dances? —Silent Mouse, age 13
Wow, that’s a good question. Much of the reason why girls don’t ask guys to dances is culture and tradition. Traditionally, it hasn’t been viewed as ladylike to ask out a guy. The tradition is probably based in the view that the man is to be the pursuer of the woman. By asking out a guy, we “seem” forward and as if we are not letting him grow into his “manhood” by
true advice pursuing us. However, if you’re really passionate about this issue, you can always organize a “Sadie Hawkins” style dance where girls ask the guys. You could also develop a “sweetheart” banquet or formal dance where it centered around girls asking guys. How do you tell people about Jesus? —Theresa, age 13
First, the most important thing you can do is to spend time with Jesus yourself. By doing so, your private life will be reflected in your public life. Your own life will become a walking Bible. So, first we tell them with our lives. Jesus was talking to the disciples and told them that others would know that these guys were His by the way they loved people. No one will listen to what we say if they watch our lives contradict what Jesus teaches. Next, pray for the Holy Spirit to open an opportunity for you to share. When that happens, you can just begin to talk about what a difference God has made in your life. Just be real and tell them your story. We basically want them to realize that they and everyone else are just like us — people who aren’t perfect. Because our sin separated us from God, His Son came to earth in the form of a man. He came to die, yes, but he also came to teach us how to live like Jesus and to live a life at peace with God. He then gave up His life, was killed, buried, and rose from the grave. So, let’s review: Be real, love will get their attention, pray for an opportunity, share what Jesus has done for you personally and share the Gospel message. 11
I N G P I R I N S
S A Y ’ T O D
N T E E
Announcing
R eal Girl Magazine is hitting the road this summer! If you live around Tuscaloosa, Birmingham and Atlanta then come meet us, get the latest issue of the magazine and more! Check the website for details! Tuscaloosa, Alabama Tuesday June 5 To be announced Birmingham, Alabama Wednesday June 6 To be announced Atlanta, Georgia Thursday & Friday June 7-8 Girl Scouts of Greater Atlanta Girl Talk Sponsored by
Books We Love by Erin Taylor
Most girls like to hear someone say, “How pretty!” or “You look beautiful!” I think it is part of who we are as women. In their book Captivating: Discovering the Secret of a Woman’s Soul husband and wife John and Stasi Eldredge explore the depths of the heart of a woman—both old and young. It is their desire for readers to embark on a journey to discover their true hearts, to understand that they all are captivating. The couple dives into topics ranging from seeking adventure, feeling wounded, longing for attention, and
feeling beautiful and how each of these can be satisfied through a relationship with Jesus Christ. “Do you see me? Am I captivating? Do I have a beauty all my own?” These are the questions the authors believe every young woman struggles with. When the world tells us that beauty is what matters, what makes a person special, team Eldredge offers that beauty goes far, far deeper than one’s skin. Beauty can be found in every person. Stasi notes, “We desire to possess a beauty that is worth
pursuing, worth fighting for, a beauty that is core to who we truly are. We want beauty that can be seen; beauty that can be felt; beauty that affects others; a beauty all our own to unveil.” Within the pages of Captivating she offers some woman-towoman sentiments of her own struggles to feel beautiful, wanted, needed, important. Through trials of fear and bitterness, Stasi discusses how she questioned her beauty and ability to be her true self. Again and again the Eldridges return to the one answer to the questions that trouble the hearts of women: a personal relationship with Jesus. These pages are filled with Biblical truths about the heart of a woman--how women can overcome past hurts from mothers, fathers, boyfriends; how a woman can seek and give forgiveness to those who have wronged her; how a woman can find and embrace her own unique beauty that is there waiting to be unveiled. Captivating: Discovering the Secret of a Woman’s Soul, is a book worth reading. Regardless of the reader’s age or stage in life, within the pages of this book lies relevant advice to living life as a woman who embraces her true beauty, a woman who is captivating. 13
Make up and hair by
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Real Girl at the Movies by Niki Carter
Disney continues to produce beautiful renderings of classic stories, the most recent including Rapunzel in Tangled and a modern twist on the frog prince in The Princess and the Frog. The exciting worlds of happily ever after are making their way into your television’s regularly scheduled programming, too! In the past year ABC has produced the mysterious and fantastical show Once Upon a Time, where all the fairytale characters you know and love are trapped in modernday Storybrooke, Maine, by Snow White’s wicked step-mother, Regina. You need only flip the channel to NBC to watch the recently debuted show Grimm, a crime drama series which brings
storybook characters to life in the real world. With the renewal of the fantasy genre, it’s no surprise that this summer Universal Pictures is releasing Snow White and the Huntsman, scheduled to be in theaters June 1. Charlize Theron plays the wicked Queen Ravenna whose evil knows no limits, especially when her Mirror alerts her to the fair Snow White (Kristen Stewart) as destined to rule the kingdom. Chris Hemsworth (Thor) is the mercenary huntsman employed to put an end to Snow and cut out her heart. The cast of this film is star-studded, also including Sam Claflin as the Prince (Pirates of the Caribbean: On Stranger Tides),
IanMcShane (also of Pirates as well as Kung Fu Panda), and Vincent Regan (Clash of the Titans). I predict that one of the most difficult obstacles for this movie is seeing Kristen Stewart in a role other than the Twilight Series. Sure, she has acted in other roles, but it’s still difficult to see her as anyone other than Bella Swan, especially in the fantasy genre. Yet, her role in this film is not the traditional Snow White from the classic story. Snow White is a brave warrior who is being trained to vanquish the evil queen, a refreshing deviation from the stories where women sit pretty at the sidelines waiting for somebody to step in and do the dirty work for them. I am optimistic that Stewart can create a fresh image for Snow. Ever since I was a little girl, my favorite characters in this story have been the dwarves! I was pleased to discover that they will be in this summer film even if they aren’t primary characters. Also, don’t be too attached to their Disney names, for they go by the names of Beith, Coll, Gort, Nion, Muir, Duir and Broch... where’s Sleepy and, my personal favorite, Grumpy? If the trailer is any indication, Snow White and the Huntsman will capture the senses with vivid cinematography and amazing special effects. In one sense this movie is similar to the original Brothers Grimm version” it is edgy and packed with adventure! This movie should definitely provide a fun trip to the theater. I hope to see you Real Girls there! 15
I N S P I R I N G
T O D A Y ’ S
T E E N
Enter the Uniquely You Contest!
You can win a photo shoot to be on the cover of the Fall 2012 issue, a feature article written about you and a special gift basket filled great stuff! To enter the contest simply fill out the entry form, include a picture of you, an essay entitled “What Makes Me Unique,” and $5. The essay should be at least one page and no more than five. All entries must be postmarked by June 26, 2012. Mail your entries to: Real Girl Magazine, LLC P.O. Box 2267 Clinton, MS 39060 *The winner must be able to provide their own transportation to Jackson, Mississippi for the photo shoot which will take place summer 2012.
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Delectable Delights
yum!
by Ally Ringer
fruit pizza
ss fat cream ckage 1/3 le pa 1 h, ug do okie ated sugar co (sliced) 1 roll refriger vorite fruits fa ur yo r, ga su p cheese, ½ cu individual ie dough into ok co e ic ix Sl F. s okies cool, m to 350 degree While the co e. ag Preheat oven ck pa t . Fros the cted on until smooth bake as dire er ix m ic tr cookies and ec ed sliced ith an el p with assort and sugar w To se . ee ng ti ch os m fr ea cr eam cheese s with the cr cooled cookie ! fruits. Enjoy
fruit pizza is one of my favorite de
sser ts of all time!
If we are truly being honest here, I might even choose fruit piz refreshing and deligh za over chocolate. It tful and can be as exc is iting as you make it! simple. Some of my It is also incredibly favorite fruits to use are blueberries, strawberr kiwi, pineapple, and ies, raspberries, clementines. As far as decorating goes, I alw little artistic with my ays try to get a fruit placement. Patte rns, color schemes, sha a result, I’m generall pes, the works. As y still decorating my first cookie after my two or three. If food friends have consume is art, this is my maste d rpiece. I daresay it’s ugly fruit pizza, thoug impossible to make h. If you are looking an for a simple treat to further. This is a perfe feed a crowd, look no ct DIY dessert for a ge t together with your friends. 17
Crafty Corner
f r a c s t r i h s t d e l c y c e R by Katelyn
Wheaton
Gather a few old t-shirts you don’t wear anymore. You can thrift them or buy new — but choose thin, soft (preferably worn out) t-shirts. Find two t-shirts of different colors that go well together.
. Lay the shirt flat on the table or floor
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Cut 1 1/2 inch strips, remove the hemmed edges. Cut them as long as possible; I went from the bottom of the front of the shirt all the way to the end of the back on some pieces. Obviously you won’t be able to do that for all of them, but the varied lengths are okay. Use fabric scissors if you have them!
shirt and save them for Cut off the sleeves of the final wrapping! end. I used them for the
the
Organize the strips by length and gently pull on them. When you do this they naturally curl in on themselves.
NOW GET CREATIVE! Start piecing the strips together the way you want your scarf to look. Twist them, Braid them and mix the colors. You could add beads or old jewelry to dress it up even more. Lay your design on the table and secure it with small ribbons of t-shirt scraps (don’t worry that they’re showing; you’ll cover them up with the final wrapping).
Tie together , trim ends, and wrap with the ex cess sleeve fabric you Use a need saved. le and thre ad to secure end wrap o the n; covering all of the ty knotting to ing and keep the sc a rf together also create . This s a smooth back for yo And Ta-Da u r neck. h! You’re d one! 19
Meet the Girls Madeline Tatyana Ni’A
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on our
Gabie
Kristen
Teen Advisory Board! Brittany
Tiara
Hannah Sara
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Meet the girls on our first ever Teen Advisory Board! These girls live in the Jackson, MS area and are representing the South well! In the future, we will have girls on our Teen Advisory Board from the North, East, and West too. Watch out for how you can be a part of the Teen Advisory Board no matter where you live!
e
derson, 18, 12th grad
Brittany Hen
“You must have the drive in order to reach your dream.”
Madeline Hall, ay “Every d t a given no is a gift, d smile an so right, t e rg never fo .” h g u la to
14, 9th grade “Therefore, do not worry abou t tomorrow, for tomorrow will worry about itself. Each day has enough trouble of its own.” (M atthew 6:34 )
GracePratt, 17, 11th grade
Kristen Simmons, 15, 9th grade “I’m ready to inspire girls with my unique perspective.” 22
“I’m so happy to be a part of the teen board of Real Girl Magazine because I know I will be able to make a positive difference in the lives of young girls.”
Hannah Finch, 16, 11th grade
Gabie A
rceo, 15, 10th
Tiara Usher, 18, 12th grade grade
“I can do all things through Christ who strengthens me.” (Phillipians 4:13)
e “Having th elp e able to h b to ty ili ab give d n a my age other girls l out is a tota my advice privilege.”
“Just because you have your feet firmly planted on the ground doesn’t mean you shouldn’t keep reaching for the ground.”
“If being you is too different, then maybe everyone else is a little too similar! God makes everyone a little bit quirky for a reason, and let’s face it; wouldn’t the world be so boring if He didn’t?”
Madeline Cook, 13, 7th grade
Sara Waldbauer, 14, 8th grade
Tatyana L
“Live for today, learn from yesterday and dream my tomorrow!”
yles, 17, 11th
Ni’A
h grade
s, 17, 11t Jone
grade
“Never go a day without smiling. You might miss out on a beautiful smile. Beauty is in the eye of the beholder.” 23
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.
What is a healthy body by today’s standards?
Healthy Girl
Health Matters
by Suzanne McDonough, PhD
Studies have shown if a young person elects to not be on a school sport team, his or her physical activity and exercise declines dramatically after grade school. In view of that, adolescence is an immensely important time for the development of consistent patterns of good exercise habits and behaviors that will last a lifetime and provide a myriad of both short- and long-term benefits. So, let’s get started. First, let’s define “healthy body”. A person with a healthy body is relatively free of disease, able to energetically perform his or her work, and do normal, age-appropriate activities. This is not to say a healthy person never gets sick or does not have any physical conditions or diseases. It simply means that a healthy body (one maintained by leading a physically active life, eating nutritious food, and getting the needed exercise) will sway the odds in its favor to remain free of disease and capable of performing the mental and physical tasks we ask of it. Also, having a “healthy body” does not mean you have to be pencil thin or “model skinny”. Quite the contrary! As my college-aged daughter says, “Strong is the new skinny.” So, how much activity does a healthy teenager, need? The American College of Sports Medicine and Surgeon General recommend at least 60 minutes of planned exercise/physical activity- preferably every day. This means that in addition to your regular activities, (unless you are playing a competitive sport and practicing every day) you need to regularly be physically working your body to a level that makes you break a sweat and makes your heart beat faster than when you are just walking. With all your school, extracurricular, and social activities, you may wonder, “How in the world do I get in all those minutes?” To begin with, you can start by being as physically active as you can possibly be at school. That’s right, you can offer to run errands for your teachers
In today’s culture everything is actionpacked and fast-paced… except humans. We value high-speed internet access, action movies with car chases, fastacting medications, instant messaging, and Minute Rice, but experts say humans, including our youth, are much more sedentary and slow-paced than in generations past. Whether it is due to more technology, more cars, more food, or genetics, we need to actively do something about all this physical inactivity. Adolescence can be a very physically challenging time; void of the much needed “daily dose” of physical activity and exercise.
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and get permission to walk in your gym, in the hallways, or around the lunchroom during lunchtime. It doesn’t hurt to ask. (Come to think of it, you can get in a few minutes just finding the right person to ask.) Another good tip: take a stand! — always stand when After getting home you can. If you are waiting in line and there are several from school, avoid chairs in which to sit, ask if it is okay for you to stand. heading straight to Standing burns many more calories than sitting and the snack cabinet or improves your posture by keeping your back strong. refrigerator. Often So what about after school? After getting home from we eat snacks out of school, avoid heading straight to the snack cabinet or habit, rather than a refrigerator. Often we eat snacks out of habit, rather than real need to nourish a real need to nourish our bodies. Before grabbing a quick our bodies. bite, ask “am I actually hungry?” If so, make a wise choice. My favorites are fresh fruit or carrot sticks and hummus. Many parents like for their teenagers to finish homework right away. If this is the case at your house, consider asking your parents for permission to do your homework when there is no daylight left or offer to do your homework right after dinner. If your parents allow it, use your daylight hours wisely by finding an activity you like to do and get to it. It’s great to walk with friends, and it meets the body’s physical need for activity and our need to socialize. Ask your parents or friends to walk around the neighborhood, or meet at a local walking track or at a school track, usually around the football field. Recently, schools have begun The number and length of time you hold these positions depends on your current level of physical fitness. As you become more comfortable with these exercises, challenge yourself to hold the position a few more seconds or do a couple more repetitions.
Side Bridge
Lie on your side with your legs together and straight. Support your body weight with your forearm or a straight arm. Lift your torso to a straight body position by contracting your abdominal and back muscles. Hold this position for a number of seconds or slowly drop the hip to the mat and lift it back up for repeated repetitions
Modified Side Bridge 26
opening their tracks in the early evening so parents and kids can enjoy walking together. Most local communities have sport fields and green spaces that sometimes have a paved route around the park. These are all great resources for helping you, your family, and your friends maintain healthy bodies. Plus, it’s usually FREE! Try to set up regular meeting times and encourage each other to walk on a regular basis. Getting into the habit of exercising with friends is a great way to build friendships, as well as your muscles. If walking isn’t your “thing”, or if you just want to shake things up a little, you can do fitness videos or play Wii/Nintendo/Xbox. Just make sure you’re playing a “physically active” game that really makes you work pretty hard. The necessity for more physical activity in the teenager category and adolescence is profound. More that 20% of the people in those age categories have an unhealthy body weight. Physical activity and exercise are two ways to combat this problem. It’s also important to include some strength training and core abdominal exercises into your routine. Here are some exercises you can do at home — even while you are watching television! Now get moving girls, and keep those bodies healthy!
Question for next time: Can teenagers safely lift weights in the same way that adults can?
Suzanne McDonough is an Assistant Professor, Mississippi College, ACSM Health and Fitness Specialist
Abdominal Curl-up
Lie on your back on a mat with your arms by your side, palms flat on the mat, elbows straight and fingers extended. Bend your knees at a 90-degree angle. Curl your head and upper back upward, reaching your arms forward along the mat reaching for your ankles. Keep your feet and buttocks on the mat. Repeat 10 times for 4 sets.
tip Plank
Lie on your stomach and support yourself in plank position (with the forearms or hands) by contracting your trunk muscles so that your neck, back, and hips are completely straight. Your forearms or hands should be under your chest and placed slightly wider than shoulder width. Hold this position from 5-30 seconds, increasing your duration as you gain muscular endurance. 27
Outdoor Adventures
Social pressures of middle and high school drove me towards this goal as well. I had to play soccer, not just because I wanted to become a pro, but more so because that’s what all my friends did. Soccer was just as much a social time as it was training for my wishful future career. Middle and high school sports can create intense and strong social networks. Social status is often even categorized by weather you’re a cheerleader or in the band, or on a varsity team versus JV. But when I got to college, I realized there was much more to who I was than my teenage soccer dreams and social status. I was always drawn to the outdoors, and when I moved down south to North Carolina for college, it was natural that I became active in the outdoor program. Every day I walked past a big wooden shed, filled with plastic boats. I inquired about this mysterious spot on campus, and discovered there was an active group of student kayakers. After some detective work figuring out who these “kayakers” were, I got to know them, and one day, asked to go out kayaking with them.
When I was a teenager, I wanted to be a professional soccer player. I remember watching the 1999 World Cup when the US women’s team beat China, and Brandi Chastain ripped off her shirt and fell to her knees crying out a scream of glory, creating one of the most iconic moments in women’s sports history. It put chills down my spine, and reminded me that’s what I wanted to do when I grew up.
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From my first day on the river, I knew I was hooked. I felt like I was a natural, my boat and I were one, like the river and I moved in sync, and let me pass safely that day because this was something I was meant to do. I began kayaking all the time. I’d practice in the swimming pool, in the pond, even in my sleep. My learning curve was steep, and I wanted to get really good at this new endeavor, not only because it was one of the most fun activities I’d ever taken part in, but being on the river gave me a sense of fulfillment I’d never experienced before. I wished I had discovered this magical sport sooner. That first season I spent on the river was nearly 5 years ago, and kayaking is now an important and crucial aspect of my life. It’s how I spend my free time, why I live where I do, and teaching kayaking is now what I do for a living. When I look back onto my teenage soccer dreams, I can’t help but think, if only I had been a kayaker back then. My dreams would have been different, but equally as ambitious. My friends might have been different, but equally as loving. My character would have developed differently, but with the same moral outcomes. Kayaking provides not only adrenaline filled excitement but also that internal rush of pure joy and of feeling alive. Being in the outdoors offers peace and tranquility, and while kayaking, I’m also able to take in the beautiful scenery and appreciate the natural world around me. The river is a powerful place, and moving with and through the current and rapids feels like a finely coordinated dance. Developing the skills to feel this flow in more challenging and technical rapids is what makes kayaking so addictive and challenging. The sport is always pushing me to improve my skills, my confidence, and my values like perseverance, determination, and attentiveness. What I’m getting at here, is that it’s easy to stay “in the box” and partake in the traditional activities and sports our schools and towns provide. Social pressures of fitting in and being in the right crowd sway our decisions to participate in certain activities as well. But not every girl is meant to stay in those boxes. Every girl is unique, and there is an activity out there which will call to you the way kayaking has called to me. Trying new things is how we learn about ourselves best, and how we open new horizons and opportunities. Something strange and different like kayaking can be intimidating, but it doesn’t have to be. To get involved in the sport, look into pool sessions nearby at a local YMCA or community pool. Search the internet for a local paddling club, or group of people who paddle the river together. The most important part of kayaking is safety, so always go with someone else, and always wear the proper safety gear. So get out there and try something new! Experience the joy of kayaking and satisfaction of spending time on a river!
Girls at Play is a small company based in Asheville, North Carolina. They teach kayaking clinics and provide private instruction specifically designed for women. While mostly in the Southeast U.S., they also run trips to Costa Rica and Idaho throughout the year. Becoming involved with Girls at Play is a fabulous way to get introduced to the sport! No matter your age, experience, or level of athleticism, Girls at Play will teach you everything you need to know to get started, and will provide a safe, fun, and empowering day on the river! To learn more visit www. watergirlsatplay.com and “like” them on Facebook at www.facebook.com/ girlsatplay.
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There are so many ways you can celebrate Earth Day this year! You can start by recycling daily and organizing an Earth Day event in your city. Check out our great ideas 4 Call a school for an Earth Day Celebration!
1 Put together a light bulb
drive in your community. Collect old incandescent light bulbs and give away (or sell at a discounted price) energy-efficient, compact fluorescent light bulbs.
2Organize an Earth Day hike, walk, run, swim or bike ride.
3 Organize a
? The garbage in a landfill stays for a for about 30 years. More than 1/3 of all energy is used by people at home.
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or community center and offer to build and plant a vegetable garden for them and help maintain it throughout the year. Coordinate with local companies to request supply and service donations.
meeting with local government officials to learn about how they take environmental issues into consideration when managing your region.
Most families throw away about 88 pounds of plastic every year.
Approximately 5 million tons of oil produced in the world each ear ends up in the ocean.
14 billion pounds of trash is dumped into the ocean every year. Each person throws away approximately four pounds of garbage every day.
5 Organize an e-waste
tion
ma infor th e r o e Ear m for ize th
recycling drive. Collect old computers, televisions and other electronic equipment from your community and find somewhere to recycle them.
l Mobi ams t the progr e r o abou ly and m , simp aign work t e -2012 camp N y Day h-da t h r t a r e / Ea y.org with g. rthda a e ay.or d t i h t r vis a ct.e and a Call your local Parks Department and offer to plan a park clean-up or plant trees.
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The energy we save when we recycle one glass bottle is enough to light a traditional light bulb for four hours. It takes 90% less energy to recycle aluminum cans than to make new ones.
5 billion aluminum cans are used each year. We each use about 12,000 gallons of water every year.
The amount of wood and paper we throw away is enough to heat 50 million homes for 20 years. Every ton of paper that is recycled saves 17 trees.
84 percent of all household waste can be recycled.
Plastics take 500 years to break down, aluminum cans take 500 years, organic materials, take 6 months, and cotton, rags, and paper take 6 months. 1/3 of all water is used to flush the toilet.
Approximately only 10 percent of every landfill can be cleaned up.
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tists r A g n i m Up & Co d iscovere
A O No
d Magazine Real Girl issippi t at Miss n e v e n a r, NOA at Decembe t s a p is h et College t able to g n e e b ’t n ave and we h ce! heads sin r u o f o t them ou th Bennett by Elizabe
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Real Girl Magazine enjoyed NOA so
much that we knew we needed to tell all the Real Girls
in the world about them. Spend a few
minutes getting to know the girls in the band.
NOA is a trio from Brandon, Mississippi and consists of Candylee, 13; Taylor, 14; and Addie, 14. They love to perform together and bring joy to people’s hearts through their singing and their infectious smiles. The girls are not new to singing and performing. In fact, they’ve been singing in show choir since the fourth grade. They officially began performing together as a group in the summer of 2011, and sing together in their school’s showchoir. They compete against different schools, and enjoy the friendly competition against each other for solos. You might be wondering why they are called NOA. Well, NOA means “love in motion” in Italian. It is a continuous love that keeps going and going. Candylee, Taylor and Addie are as close as sisters, but each has her own musical style. Candylee is an alto and is the Broadway type, and likes oldies, blues and country. She grew up singing “You are My Sunshine” 36
at senior adult luncheons and nursing homes when she was younger. Taylor is a soprano and likes contemporary Christian, Phantom of the Opera, and classical, as well as songs in different languages. Addie is an alto and metzer soprano, and likes to belt out strong tunes. Addie enjoys pop, rock and the Jonas Brothers. NOA owes much of their success to their family and friends. When they practice, they pick out their own harmonies and their parents step in and help. Lauren Woodward, who helps with Brandon Middle School and High School’s show choirs, assists as their vocal coach. NOA are musicians with meaning. Their faith inspires their music and they say it is all about the message. They cover many popular, contemporary Christian songs they’ve heard on K-Love, adding their own harmony. Candylee and Taylor are also in the process of writing original songs. NOA has been compared to sounding like Point of Grace. The girls of NOA want others to know that God put it on their hearts to sing, and they want to encourage people to go with God’s plan. They say that they would love the opportunity to be able to collaborate with another encouraging group, the Christian girl band Barlow Girl. “That would be awesome,” said Candylee. “The biggest way you can get to teenagers is through music. I love the smiles
and reaching people. Give them music and it lets them get the message,” added Taylor. Candylee, Taylor and Addie each have people in their lives whom they admire. Taylor’s role model is her choir director’s wife, who helped her be comfortable on stage and with her voice. Addie looks up to her mom. “My mom used to sing a lot with her sister. She taught me to harmonize and helped with shows. I want to be just like her,” said Addie. Candylee looks up to her older sister, who started playing the guitar and encouraged her to play the guitar as well. School is a top priority for the girls, but when they’re not at school or singing they enjoy a variety of activities. Candylee plays the guitar consistently. Taylor likes art, poetry and photography. She also enjoys reading the Christy Miller series by her favorite author Robin Jones Gunn. Addie loves listening to music, and Her favorite song is “100 More Years” by Francesca Baticelli. She said, “Whenever I feel I like this guy, I listen to that song.” Addie also enjoys reading mysteries, fantasy and Cinderella-type stories on her Kindle. In the future, Addie plans to learn how to play the drums and bass guitar. The girls of NOA have some great advice for their fans, especially teens. When it comes to dating and boys, Candylee said, “Girls don’t need to settle
for boys that are at the bottom of their standards. They can always shoot higher. There are ‘Prince Charmings’ out there. I think girls should pray about everything. Don’t get involved with guys until we are ready to be married. If you don’t see yourself marrying that guy then you don’t need to date. A kiss is something very special. Girls think that you can’t be friends with guys. You don’t want to grow up too fast.” She continued, “Middle school is hard. Everyone needs to put it in God’s way. God is your Dad. I just talk to him like He’s my best friend.” “We don’t have to be afraid of anything because He is God of the Universe. Stop trying to make your own decisions. You need to do it God’s way. He’ll protect you. Everything happens for a reason,” said Taylor.
You’ll have to act fast if you want to be the first among your friends to be into NOA! In February, they sang patriotic songs for Daughters of the American Revolution at the Hilton in Ridgeland, MS, where they got to meet Lance Bass, formerly of ’N Sync. This summer, NOA will sing at the Annual Fourth of July Celebration at Necaise Crossing Ballpark on the Mississippi Gulf Coast. The featured speaker is American Family Radio’s J.J. Jasper and about 4,000 people are expected to attend. NOA has a bright future and we can’t wait to see where they are headed! They are currently working on their first CD, which is sure to be amazing! You can find more information about NOA on Facebook and Twitter.
NOA is Candylee,
Taylor and Addie, and they are
musicians with meaning. Their
faith inspires their music and they
p
say it is all about the message.
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Discovering the Real Prince Charming
by Joy Allen 38
From Disney movies to England’s most famous bride, princesses are everywhere these days.
Growing up, my sister, Eva, and I loved to pretend we were princesses. We would dress up in my mother’s old dresses, pile plastic beads around our necks, and raid our mother’s makeup. The finishing touch, of course, was a sparkly tiara. Eva and I were both convinced that somewhere in a far and distant land there were two princes just waiting for us. We were meant to be princesses; we just knew it. As I’ve gotten older, I’ve noticed the princess phenomenon has remained a constant part of our society. Little girls continue to dress up in pretty dresses, throw princess parties, and play elaborate games centered on Prince Charming. When Prince William married Kate Middleton last spring, millions of people from around the world tuned into their televisions to watch the ceremony. I suspect women young and old were imagining what it would be like to be a real princess and to have their very own fairytale come true. I believe there are many good things about the princess mentality. Princesses realize their beauty and self-worth. Princesses are kind and seek to serve others around them. Princesses are brave and fight for what they believe in. There is, however, one element of the princess fantasy which can be dangerous. In every fairytale, a princess is not complete until she finds her Prince Charming. Prince Charming is everything she’s ever wanted. He’s handsome, smart, and he usually saves her from someone who wants to hurt her. He’s absolutely perfect for her in every way and once they find each other, they live happily ever after. When we seek to find Prince Charming for ourselves, the results can be devastating. Girls may spend their time sadly waiting for their prince to come instead of enjoying the life God has given them. We may choose to be in unhealthy or unhappy relationships because we are afraid of being alone. We will easily expect way too much from an ordinary man when we want him to be Prince Charming, and these unreal expectations have led to many failed relationships and marriages. Prince Charming, however, can find us if we know what it is we are really looking for. We want to be loved, to feel beautiful, to feel safe, to be valued, and to be rescued from our ordinary lives. There is only one man who has ever done this and will ever do this: Jesus. He loves you perfectly, completely and He always will. So let’s rejoice in our beauty. Let’s enjoy all the unique ways we have been created and seek to love others with the same love we have been given. Let’s stand up for ourselves and what we believe in. We are princesses and our Prince Charming has found us. Our Happily Ever After can start today! 39
by Kelli Vinson
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photography by Erin Fults
styling by Camie Crowe
makeup by Kosmos
Magazine s, billboard s, comme tell us exa rcials, mo ctly what p vies, and e rom shou ven our fr where a gu ld look lik iends y sweeps y e: a fairyta le o u p o ri ff n your feet in cess night whisks yo u around your perfe the dance ct dress an and celeb fl oor. After, d ration. Ho there will wever, the be drinkin completely truth is, o g ften this n different w ig h h e t n lo p o la ks yed out in My junior real life. year, a bo y who I ha to prom a d liked for nd I was th a while, ask rilled. Fla ed me he was dan sh forward cing with to p ro m n a ight and nother gir talked to m l the entire e and I en time. He b d e d arely up dancin entire nig g with som ht. Even th e friends th o u g h I was dancin e distracted g with frie by my bro nds, I was ken heart around th a s I watche e floor wit d him dan h his new ce equally ig in terest. Aft nored as I e r p ro m tr I was ied to stay bonfire. I preoccup was out of ied aroun m da y element a just be my nd I wasn’t self. able to My senior prom, I ha d learned a guy frien my lesson d and I de and c id ed to go to big group gether wit of friends. ha The press I could be ure was off myself. Th a nd ere were n and we ha o expecta d a blast. A tions fter prom, friend’s h we went to ouse and p a layed board and watch games, lau ed movies. ghed, The point is, make p rom what be. Roman you want it s 12:2 say to s, “Do no to this worl your mind t b e conform d, but be tr , that by te ed ansformed sting you m is good an by the ren ay discern d acceptab e w a l of w h at is the w le and perf this world ill of God, ect.” Jesu . Without w h s a c t alls us to b fear, be yo e different is good an urself and from d acceptab h a v e fu n in a way le. Often ti where our that you k mes prom beliefs and now can be the st a one night ndards are If you thin o te f th st e e d. And wh year k about it, at is it reall the night o man and d y for? f fun and ro ress should mance, da be left for want it an ncing, the your wedd d don’t be perfect in g day! Make a shamed to friend. Be p ro g m o w w ith a grou hat you silly, be fu p of girlfri n, be girly the standa ends or ju and be yo rds of this st a u rself! Do world, bu not be con own way in t b e e fi x n c ed by eptional in the name every way of Jesus C , paving yo hrist. ur
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“There is a bit of insanity in dancing that does
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everyone a great deal of good.”
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d he ially oun T 2 “ ffic s ar 1 20 as o out the , 1 w c g y 3 irl” irl S rtyin . photography by Heather Bryant r a G e G a t u d p ra n e Ja f th , an be leb It’s hard to believe that it’s been Beth Messer, Director of the On ar o hed will ce 100 years since Juliette Gordon Girl Scout Leader Experience Ye unc orld ar to Low started this incredible at the Girl Scouts of Greater la e w ye nnett organization that was designed Atlanta, and Jordan Fessehaie, to build courage, confidence and a fifteen year old Girl Scout in th ole th Be character in girls — the essential Atlanta. Beth has worked for the wh Elizabe by
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elements of girl power! Whether you’re a Girl Scout or not, you’ll enjoy reading about
Girl Scouts for 25 years. She has worked in a variety of positions including camp director,
volunteer, etc. She started working for Girl Scouts parttime when she was in college at the University of Georgia. When Beth is not working with Girl Scouts, she enjoys riding horses. She lives on a farm and loves to do educational farm programs with the animals she raises. Beth
is also a herpetologist, which means she studies and keeps reptiles such as snakes, turtles and lizards. Not only is Girl Scouts fun, but as Beth explains, “Girl Scouts teaches you how to be truly prepared, which is a real life skill. Selling cookies, outdoor skills,
working as a team and how to prepare my own meals all laid a foundation for my life. I tried a lot of activities such as archery, swimming and horseback riding.” One of Beth’s favorite parts of Girl Scouts is summer camp. She said that after a week at camp, girls are more mature and have 59
better social skills, and that Girl Scout camp helps girls grow and develop independently or with a buddy. Girl Scouts in middle and high school get to travel and do intensive sessions on horseback riding, sailing, biking, or wilderness survival. Beth works with girls to develop programs and train leaders. She explained that a key component of Girl Scouts is developing strong leaders with a sense of self, true leadership skills that will grow over the years, and positive character. Did you know that 80% of women in leadership were Girl Scouts? “That’s because in Girl Scouts they develop skills like critical thinking and cooperation,” said Beth. Exciting new skills are gained when Girl Scouts earn badges. These include Financial Literacy, Cookie Business, Skill Building, and Legacy badges. Legacy badges categories include first aid, cooking, citizen athlete, arts, and naturalist. The Financial Literacy and Cookie Business badges teach girls how 60
to manage money. They learn how they earn, spend, save and share (philanthropy). While working for the cooking badge, the younger Girl Scouts do a simple snack while the older Girl Scouts, such as the Ambassadors, have a dinner party. The cornerstone of Girl Scouts is using their time, treasure and talents to make the world a better place. One Girl Scout troop in Atlanta gave a donation to an animal shelter. In addition, they made a field trip to a llama farm, learned about wool and bought a llama for a family in Peru. Girl Scouts do at least four community service projects a year. With around 3,000 troops in Girl Scouts of Greater Atlanta alone, that’s a lot of community service! Beth dished on one famous part of Girl Scouting — uniforms! “It has been interesting to see Girl Scouts evolve over time. Boy Scouts look the same. Girls are more concerned over their badges and uniforms and keeping it contemporary. It was voted last year to change the GS uniform
to khaki bottoms, white top and a sash or vest,” said Beth. We agree with Beth that the frequent updates have kept Girl Scouts looking fresh and modern. “On the national front there is a generational leadership for girls. We are working on moving forward to have better equality so girls have equal opportunities for leadership. Men and women have different leadership styles. Men are command and control, more directive; while women are more about cooperation and collaboration. Bring awareness that the type of leadership is needed in government, business and education,” noted Beth. The Girl Scouts of Greater Atlanta has great reasons to be proud these days! About one hundred girls in 10th through 12th grade won their Gold Award on March 25 at the Gold Award Ceremony Celebration. The Gold Award is the highest award you can get in Girl Scouts and is equivalent to the rank of Eagle Scouts in Boy Scouts. Many girls received scholarship money
by winning their Gold Award. And, if girls decide to enter the military, they automatically get advanced one rank if they’ve earned the Gold Award. Congrats, girls! Way to go! Beth gave us some great advice about leadership. “I think there are a lot of things offered with Girl Scouts. It is still an activity that builds core values and friendships that will last a girl the rest of her life. Girls thrive in a single sex environment. I know from my own experience how valuable it can be.” At the end of our chat, Beth gave us some great advice. “I want to tell girls to be comfortable with who you are. You are a leader. Find that natural leader within you,” she said. One of Beth’s favorite Girl Scout Memories was when her Junior Girl Scout Troop went on a weekend camping trip. Her troop had 30 seventh grade girls, called Cadettes, and 4 adult leaders. The girls planned all the meals themselves. They drove to camp on a Friday night and realized they had forgotten part of the food, but the leaders did not solve the problem for them. Instead, the girls completely reworked the menu! They were proud of themselves for solving the problem, and how to think quickly when plan A gets changed to plan B. Another time, when she was 11 years old and in 6th grade, her troop did a fashion show for younger girls at a local Mall. Beth wore a bikini, which was more modest than today’s bikinis since it was the 70’s, but still showed a lot of skin. The hair and makeup person told her she was too pale
so they bought QT (Quicktan) at Woolworth’s, an old department store. After it was on for about 10 minutes she looked like a leopard, but the makeup artist applied makeup to where the spots were. Beth was holding a beach ball as she walked down the runway and had to be very careful with all the makeup and tanning stuff that was on her. Despite the last minute leopard problem, they had a lot of fun and the show was such a success that her troop made it in the newspaper!
Meet Jordan Jordan Fessehaie is 15 years old and in the tenth grade at the Magnet School of International Studies at North Cobb High School in Kennesaw, Georgia. She has been a Girl Scout for ten years and is in Troop 23214. Jordan likes Girl Scouts because she is able to experience new adventures. Last year she traveled to Cataloochee, North Carolina to go snow skiing with her troop. Jordan attended the Girl Scout Summit in February. It was a weekend spent at camp with other Girl Scouts planning what the troops will do for the year. It is an important leadership position in the Girl Scouts and is like being on the board. Jordan really enjoys the opportunity she has to be a leader. Jordan also loves being a
cheerleader for football and basketball games. She’s working on doing back handsprings so she can make Varsity. She also likes the culinary arts and loves trying crazy new recipes. Through Girl Scouts, Jordan met the Vice President of Marriott Hotel and has been able to do an internship with Chef Janne Salvo, who is the chef of Briza, the restaurant at the Marriott Hotel in Atlanta and was a former Top Chef contestant. Jordan has begun a culinary mentorship with her and gets to prepare appetizers as well as experience the excitement of working backstage in a hotel kitchen. On April 15th, Jordan will be creating a five course Girl Scout themed dinner. “We are trying to do Juliette Low foods. For instance, she was born and raised in Savannah and Savannah is famous for foods such as shrimp, crab, peaches etc. The dinner will be served to people on the Leadership Committee, a representative from the Trefoil Guild, a representative from the Gold Award Alliance, a representative from the Renaissance Hotel and a Girl Scout Director,” said Jordan. Although Jordan is learning more elaborate culinary dishes at the Renaissance Hotel, her favorite thing to make at camp is a cake using a box oven. They get a cardboard box and foil, put charcoal in it and bake a cake. At home she likes learning how to make bread. “There are simply ingredients but you can make something really complex.” She also likes cupcakes and decorating. 61
In addition to all of her activities, Jordan travels all around the world because she has a goal to perform a service project on every continent before she graduates from high school. “I make sure that wherever I go I take the Girl Scout story with me and set a good example, even in different cultures,” says Jordan. How does Jordan have time for it all? According to her, it is time management. “Have an organized schedule. Be dedicated to everything. Work hard. I have learned organization through Girl Scouts.” RG:Tell us why girls should join the Girl Scouts. JF: “Because they would get the opportunities that other organizations don’t give you — fun, adventure, camping, selling cookies, earning badges, getting to meet with other girls around your age group and making friends.” She said, “Everybody who is a girl should be a part of Girl Scouts because it is an adventure and it is really fun.” Well, Jordan, we agree! Girl Scouts Rock!
Q& A
RG: What was it like to speak the Girl Scouts Alumnae event? JF: I was one of five Girl Scouts who spoke in front of alumni. We met the CEO of Girl Scouts and were able to see what Girl Scout alumni groups are doing and learn where they are going. Alumni enjoyed being involved in clubs that involve the Girl Scouts. We got to see an authentic Girl Scouts uniform from 1912 which was really cool because it wasn’t a replica. 62
RG: What are your favorite and least favorite subjects in school? JF: My favorite subject is math because it is most useful in the real world and my least favorite subject is social studies/history. RG: Where do you want to go to college? JF: As far away from Georgia as possible — probably Western California or New England. I want to study hospitality management or hotel management and minor in mathematics. RG: What do you think is the biggest challenge teen girls face today? JF: Being goal-oriented. It is important for people to have a goal and accomplish it. Some people have goals, but don’t set them high. Having realistic goals and perseverance to reach them to make a difference in society is important. RG: Who do you admire and why? JF: Raven Simone. She is wellrounded and a positive influence. Also, my mom — she is dedicated and hard working.
RG: What are your thoughts on magazines? JF: I like magazines. Getting information and looking at pictures, it’s a good mix. Books don’t have pictures. Magazines are more up to date. They are short, sweet, to the point. They cover many subjects in one bounded periodical. I would like to see arts and crafts and recipes in a magazine. I like to be creative. RG: Would you rather get your magazine as an online magazine or print? JF: PRINT! I like to get mail in the mailbox. Mail is usually for the parents so it is very exciting to get something fun and special in the mail.
We agree with Beth and Jordan that Girl Scouts is a fun way to learn new skills and become a stronger, more confident girl! To find a troop near you, visit www.girlscouts.org/ councilfinder.
April 27, 2012 Canfield Camporee Canfield, Ohio This is an all Council Camporee at county fairgrounds from Friday evening until Sunday morning. Single day participation on Saturday is also available. This will include fire and friendship circles, camping for troops and families, archery, camp skills, crafts, historical displays and performances, entertainment, food for purchase and more. April 28, 2012 Great Outdoors Expo Morrow, Georgia Environmental leadership expo, everything green, cooking green, recycling May 19, 2012 Camp Sing Along This is a fun day for Girl Scouts and volunteers filled with making S’mores, singing songs and going on a camp tour.
Pine Acres, Pine Valley, Camp Meriweather, Camp Misty Mountain, Camp Timber Ridge — Georgia. June 7, 2012 Writing Workshop for Junior Girl Scouts Mableton, Georgia Come for an afternoon of fun as the editor of Real Girl Magazine helps you discover the joys of creative writing! June 9, 2012 Rock the Mall Washington, DC Girl Scouts from across the country will come together and lift their voices. Girl Scouts will gather at the National Mall drawing Crowds of 250,000 in a sing-along. June 22-23, 2012 New Jersey Science Center Concert and Fireworks Liberty State Park, New Jersey Girl Scouts of Central & Southern New Jersey in partnership with Jersey Shore Inc., Heart of New Jersey and Northern New Jersey will jointly host the state wide event at Liberty State Park. Highlights of the two day event- include a Saturday night concert where crowds could reach up to 40,000, fireworks, and sleepovers in the Liberty Park Science Center and Ferry Terminal. June 25-30, 2012 Centennial Camporee Fort Stewart, Georgia Girl Scouts of Historic Georgia has formed a partnership with the Georgia Garrison Training Center at Fort Stewart to host a National Camporee to celebrate the 100th Anniversary! The Camporee
will hold a wide range of educational experiences and skill-building activities for girls with a focus on STEM and challenge/teambuilding programs, such as geocaching, astronomy, robotics, engineering, rifelry, photography and much more. There will also be opportunities to experience the traditional activities that Girl Scouts have honed and enjoyed for nearly 100 years; archery, compass skills, signal, semaphore, Morse code, map reading, outdoor cooking, craft making, song shares, campfires, swaps, nature studies and, of course, S’mores!
Girl Scout Events
April 14, 2012 Campsites to Megabytes: A Celebration of 100 Years of Girl Scouting Clyde Muse Center Pearl, Mississippi Celebrate 100 years of Girl Scouting with a day jam-packed full of fun and excitement. The event will include a live on-stage presentation of Girl Scouting through the decades as well as a performance by Hayley Orrantia, rising star of The X Factor. After the performances, explore dozens of booths with hands-on fun at every station. Cost: $5 per person
July 1, 2012 Healthy Living Expo — Eat, Play, Girl Scout Duluth, Georgia Girl’s fitness, social relationships, cyber bullying and much more! July 12-17, 2012 WAGGGS Girls World Forum Chicago, Illinois The Girls’ World Forum (GWF) is the third and final event in a series of forums that are part of the World Association of Girl Guide and Girl Scouts (WAGGGS) global centenary celebrations. The World Forums, hosted by Girl Guiding UK in 2010 and the World Centers in 2011, have already engaged more than 250 young women in discussions of the WAGGGS Global Action Theme, girls worldwide say “Together We Can Change Our World,” which address the United Nations Millennium Development Goals (MDGs).
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By Jenna Cor
Cyber Bullying We have all heard the phrase, “Sticks and stones may break my bones, but words will never hurt me.� This is a very untrue statement, and anyone who has ever been bullied knows it.
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Online bullying, called cyber bullying, happens when teens use the Internet, cell phones, or other devices to send or post texts or images intended to hurt or embarrass another person. Cyber bullying is a problem that affects almost half of all American teens. Cyber bullying can be random, but it often comes from a person the victim knows. The most common targets are often children and adolescents. The best way to respond to a bully is not at all, but it can be difficult to avoid defending oneself. To be technical, the National Crime Prevention Council defines cyber bullying as [the process of] “using the Internet, cell phones or other devices to send or post texts or images intended to hurt or embarrass another person.” Cyber bullying refers to any harassment that occurs via the Internet, cell phones or other devices. Communication technology is used to intentionally harm others through hostile behavior such as sending text messages and posting ugly comments on the Internet. Cyber bullying could be limited to posting rumors or gossips about a person in the Internet bringing about hatred in other’s minds; or it may go to the extent of personally identifying victims and publishing
materials severely defaming and humiliating them. It is because of these traumatic experiences that cases have been made against Internet bullying, but there were no laws against it because of the first amendment’s guarantee of the freedom of speech. However, it took the suicide of a thirteen year-old girl for legislation to be put in place to maneuver around the freedom of speech clause. Hopefully this loop hole will help victims of cyber bullying in the future. Megan Meier Cyber Bullying Prevention Act amends the federal criminal code to impose criminal penalties on anyone who transmits in interstate or foreign commerce a communication intended to coerce, intimidate, harass, or cause substantial emotional distress to another person, using electronic means to support severe, repeated, and hostile behavior. On October 17th, 2006, Megan Meier, thirteen years-old at the time, received a message from “Josh Evans” telling her that the world would be better off without her in it. Megan, who had developed feelings for Josh, although she never met him, was devastated by his words. She was found dead a short while later in her bedroom closet. Megan hung herself.
Megan had been the object of emotionally harmful messages on a MySpace page. Lori Drew, the mother of a former friend of Megan’s, created a fake MySpace account in the name of “Josh Evans” and posed as a 16-yearold boy to humiliate Megan because Drew heard that Megan may have been spreading rumors about Drew’s daughter. Drew, who, together with her daughter, created the “boy” to find out how Megan felt about her daughter, among other things. Drew was arrested in 2008 for violations of the Computer Fraud and Abuse Act but was acquitted in 2009. Drew was indicted and convicted on three misdemeanor charges but then a federal judge overturned the guilty verdicts and issued a directed acquittal on the three charges. This is just one example of an outcome from cyber bullying. If you have not seen the ABC Family movie, “Cyberbully,” watch it. Get educated and think twice before you send a hateful message. Words hurt.
for more infor mation visit g.org in y l l u rb e b y c p sto 65
By Jenny Wernly
This is called gossip. Gossip means talking about people behind their backs. It may involve personal details or facts that would be embarrassing for the people being talked about, and it often includes exaggeration or twisting of facts. I am often tempted to complain about someone who annoys me, but this is gossip as well. It’s gossip when you claim you’re concerned about someone but share private information to explain why. It’s even gossip when you listen to others do it, because you’re participating in the spread of 66
confidential information. Turn on the television or glance at the magazine shelves and it seems like so much of what people read or discuss is gossip. Many people claim that they’re just having harmless conversations or sharing stories, but is this true? Is gossip no big deal? A simple Google search with the word gossip brings up articles about mistrust, hurt feelings, broken friendships, and damaged reputations. The Bible lists gossip with other serious vices: “discord, jealousy, fits of rage, selfish ambition, slander, gossip, arrogance and disorder” (2 Corinthians 12:20). That’s not a list I want my name on! In the same theme, Romans 1:29 describes people who don’t
know God as people who “have become filled with every kind of wickedness, evil, greed and depravity. They are full of envy, murder, strife, deceit and malice. They are gossips.” Gossip is listed with murder. It doesn’t sound so harmless to me. I believe gossip is a big deal. It‘s a big deal because gossip is basically violence with words. Almost everyone can recall a time someone hurt her through gossiping, and most can also remember saying things that shouldn’t have been said as well. Proverbs says “The words of a gossip are like choice morsels; they go down to the inmost parts” (26:22). This verse means that gossip affects us deeply, and its wounds stick with us. It’s hard to forget a juicy detail about someone else, whether it’s true or not, and it’s hard to restore your own reputation when people know you as a person who can’t keep a secret. Another problem with gossip is that it’s is a waste of time. When you’re gossiping, you’re not creating lasting bonds with other people. You’re not practicing focusing on the positive elements of others’ personalities. Gossip creates a negative environment in which people are afraid to be honest about themselves. If you are listening to a gossip, there’s a good chance the gossiper will talk about you when you’re not there as well. It’s hard to be real when you know you’re talking to a person who can’t keep a secret. Gossip feeds the lie that others are not worthy of love. Gossiping, or even listening
to gossip, creates a habit of criticism. The more you do it, the more you start to notice the weaknesses of others. It’s subtle at first, but the more you practice sharing intimate or unflattering details about other people, the more you will become a judgmental person. The Bible says “Do to others as you would have them do to you” (Luke 6:31). Wouldn’t you rather be a trustworthy friend who is known for her encouraging words? Maybe you’re saying, “Okay! Okay! But how do I stop gossiping?”
Practically Speaking
With God’s help, try to create a habit of pausing before you talk about another person. Follow the classic advice to think before you speak. Ask yourself if you are saying something you would be willing to say with that person present. Think about whether your words will benefit anyone who is listening. Would you
Spiritually Speaking
You can’t stop gossiping with your own strength. You know this deep down, don’t you? You try to muster up enough energy to stop doing something you know is wrong, but you fail, over and over. There’s a reason gossip is so widespread, and that reason is that sin is easy. It’s enticing and tricky, and we join in without even realizing we are. The Bible says that “out of the overflow of the heart the mouth speaks” (Matthew 12:34), so our wicked hearts spill out into our words. You need God. There is good news though. He wants to help you become a new person who doesn’t gossip. I John says, “If we confess our sins, he is faithful and just to forgive our sins and to cleanse us from all unrighteousness.” (1:9). Confess to Jesus that you gossip. Ask Him to help you. Tell Him you need Him to rescue you from gossip and all of your terrible thoughts and actions.
want the same detail shared about you? Get in the habit of focusing on others’ positive qualities. Practice compliments. Stop filling your mind with gossip, even if it’s about television characters or celebrities. Choose friends who avoid meaningless chatter, and if gossip does come up with a group of friends, don’t be afraid to say, “Hey, maybe we shouldn’t be talking about her when she’s not here.” Become the kind of friend who is known for her ability to keep secrets and who always has a kind word to say. Remember Proverbs 11:13: “A gossip betrays a confidence, but a trustworthy person keeps a secret.” 67
Human Rights Modern-day Slavery by Neesha Roberts
When most of us think of slavery, we think of something that our great great great grandparents lived through, but it still exists today. There are an estimated 27 million slaves in the world today—more than any other time in history (Bales, Disposable
People). Yes, even more than the transatlantic slave trade that took place between1450 and 1900 when over 11,000,000 African people were enslaved and exported all over the world for work. To put it into perspective, 27 million is more than the
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number of people who live in all of Australia! Can you imagine an entire continent in slavery?! Most can’t. To think that it exists today is, well, inconceivable. But it’s true: slavery exists in our time. The good news is there are organizations that exist to help the marginalized and voiceless. But before we talk about one of them, called international Justice Mission, I think a good place to start is to learn more about one type of slavery that exists called forced labor slavery. Defining Forced Labor Slavery
Today, slavery looks different in different parts of the world. In India, forced labor is the primary type of modern-day slavery. (Note: other types of slavery exist in India but it is not being addressed here — stay tuned to learn more!). In the transatlantic slave trade the majority of people were forced to work in sugar plantations, and beyond this, they worked for coffee plantations, mines, domestic labor, cotton fields, and
construction. But in India, you will find slaves in a different type of work: they are found in rice mills, rock quarries, and brick kilns. Forced labor slavery, also called bonded labor, involves the use of deception or coercion to employ someone, usually an entire family, who is unknowingly entering a hostile employment opportunity that will rob them of their everyday freedom to live life on their own terms. This bondage is justified by a loan taken by the family that’s often needed for medical treatment, a funeral, a wedding, or other immediate needs. It’s the family’s understanding that they will be able to repay the loan with the wages earned at the facility. But in reality, the loan becomes the price of their bondage. Once they take the loan and move to the facility the owner exploits them. By paying them less than minimum wage and adding exorbitant interest fees, it is impossible to repay the loan. On top of that, they are not allowed to leave — very much like in the confines of a prison — and they’re not allowed to work at another place of their choice. Often they endure physical
and verbal abuse as well. The entire family undergoes harsh treatment, medical neglect, derogatory slander from the owner, and children are not allowed to attend school. Let’s learn from Girija’s story, a young girl whose family was trapped in bonded labor just a few years ago. One Family’s Story
Girija, 15, dreamt of becoming a doctor one day — but she knew life in the rock quarry would prohibit that from happening. Her brother, Viswanathan, 13, wanted to become a policeman. They had dreams — but no hope of seeing them fulfilled in the rock quarry — a place where hope was squelched since their parents, Venkatesh and Sumathi, had been forced to live and work at the quarry. After eight years of labor, in 2009 a government official was notified of the bondage of Venkatesh’s family and several other families and immediately he sought the help of International Justice Mission to conduct an investigation. International Justice Mission (IJM) is a human rights agency that brings rescue to victims of slavery, sexual exploitation and other forms of violent oppression. IJM lawyers, investigators and aftercare professionals work with local officials to secure immediate victim rescue and aftercare, to prosecute perpetrators and to
ensure that public justice systems — police, courts and laws — effectively protect the poor. Together they soon discovered the owners were powerful people: one was a former state-level politician. The investigation revealed the presence of two connected quarries controlled by different owners, making rescue doubly dangerous. Now they would need to conduct two operations simultaneously while also hoping for no tip-off since the owners had great power within the community. On March 6, 2009, IJM and local government authorities rescued 13 families from slavery. Today those families are still free. Immediately following rescue IJM enrolled all 13 families into the aftercare program where they were equipped to live in freedom. While in bondage all decisions were made for them, so upon rescue they are in great need to learn how to be independent again. The aftercare department focuses the trainings on basic life skills that empower them with the knowledge they need to thrive in their communities and to prevent future economic exploitation. Girija and her brother enjoy the life they were meant to live: a life of autonomy, a life free to
pursue education, to play with their friends, and to dream of a hope-filled future. Now they are in school pursuing their dreams. Venkatesh and his wife Sumathi are proud of their children for studying and now their children’s dreams of becoming a doctor and a police officer are not impossible. As a family, they remain in freedom today and are continuing to enjoy their independence to create a life for themselves free from violent oppression. Girija and her family represent just one story of millions that still await rescue. Many families are walking in freedom today, but millions still need help. Now that you know about forced labor slavery — Spread the word! Learn more about IJM and what they do for the vulnerable at www.ijm.org. 69
The Lost Daughter of Easa by J. L. Mulvihill
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
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
Being all You were Created to Be By Jessica DeHart
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Art & Poetry Submissions Wanted!
R eal Girl Magazine is a place to express your creativity! Send your poetry or a photo of your artwork to us, and it could be featured in the next issue! Send everything to: Real Girl Magazine, LLC P.O. Box 2267 Clinton, MS 39060 or submissions@realgirlmag.com *Materials containing profanity or unwholesome images will not be accepted.
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Getting Real
Why was it so hard to be myself? Who was I, really? I hadn’t a clue. All I knew was I kept trying to get everyone to like me so I could like myself better. That never worked. So I became a
world-class people pleaser (also known as a doormat). I also tried being perfect by being Pollyanna positive. These things didn’t work either. The truth was, I had turned into a fake--a horribly, unhappy and insecure fake. That stupid voice inside of me kept whispering, “You don’t matter. They’ll never like you no matter what you do.” I was lost. I was lonely. I felt empty. That voice inside got louder, demanding, “Who are you anyway?” I had to find out. I had to find me. I needed answers. To find answers, I did what I always did best. I wrote. I journaled relentlessly. I wrote questions like, Who am I? What is so great about me? Why do I matter? Why am I alive in this time in history? Eventually my hand wrote the most important question of all, What is my purpose, God? Surely I had a purpose… we all do, right? Okay, sure. God knows me well. He knows I like puzzles and figuring things out. So I guess when I asked Him what my purpose was He chose not to tell me, not everything that is. Instead, He only gave me a riddle. I had to figure out the rest of the puzzle on my own. God’s riddle came to me one day over a bowl of Lucky
Being All You Were Created to Be
Charms. That’s when I heard a voice inside whisper, “Your purpose is where your gifts and dreams meet the world’s needs.” “Huh?” I whispered back. That voice got a little louder, “Your purpose is where your gifts and dreams meet the world’s needs.” “Wow…okay.” I got chill bumps. Oh good! Now I had a puzzle to solve! I mattered and I had to figure out why. Being a fake was a long, long time ago. Since then, I discovered some mighty powerful truths about myself and everyone else in the world. The biggest truth was that our purpose is where our gifts and dreams meet the world’s needs. I now know that each one of us has a unique package of gifts and dreams that no one else will ever have. We were born at exactly the right time and in the right place. We possess something truly great that the world needs now. As I began to fulfill my purpose, my insecurities began to disappear. Self-confidence came naturally. I spent more time growing my greatness and less time worrying about my weaknesses. I thought more about my journey and less about what others thought of me. I discovered self love when I discovered my innate worth. When I started journeying down my own important road in life all of a sudden really cool things that seemed like lucky coincidences began to happen. Doors opened for me, resources came my way, fantastic opportunities showed up, the
words on a billboard right in my neighborhood were the perfect title to my new book, and a song on the radio gave me the inspiration I needed. When you commit to your purpose, it’s like the whole world commits with you and helps you become all you were created to be. It’s like magic! There are no such things as lucky coincidences. It’s all God, and it’s all good. You matter to this world. It’s up to you to solve your own purpose puzzle. This is the first of five new articles in a series called Getting Real created by Real Girl Magazine. Through this series you will discover your purpose and become empowered to be all you are truly meant to be. In the next issue, available in July, you will Discover Your Gifts & Talents. Next up in the October issue, you will Create Your Dreams & Aspirations and imagine your potential as you Celebrate Your 35th Birthday Party. Then, in the January 2013 issue, Real Girl Magazine will finish the series by helping you Design Your Purpose Plan. Partner with a friend or create a Real Girl group to work together and have fun as you discover your greatness. You’ll be so glad you did! The illustration on page 71 is an acrylic painting created by Sarah Margaret Wade. It is entitled Unshackled Joy and embodies the notion that joy and freedom follow when we surrender ourselves to Christ’s Kingship, love and sovereignty as seen in Matthew 11:28-30 and Psalm 55:22.
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Real Girl Art