On The Cover Contesting Doubts New Column! CHRISTmas Inside A County Jail Women’s Role In 1st Century
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In Every Issue Ask Kat Alexis’s Journal Recipe Corner
Bronze Bow Book Review Christmas When You Were 5 Deck The Halls Christ The Savior Is Born A Collection of Christmas Quotes
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Monkeys? Really?
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Don’t Worry, Be Happy! Be Home For Christmas
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An Article on Evolution
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Photo Credits: Emily M: Cover, 6; Hallie: pgs 19, 20; Amy: pgs 1, 3; Bethany: pg 2, 7; Lydia: pgs 9, 10; Amanda: page 8; Free Stock Photos: pgs 1, 11, 12, 23, 24; DryIcons: pgs 7, 19, 20, 21, 22, 23 1
Letter From The Editor Dear readers, Merry Christmas! I hope that each of you had a wonderful holiday season this year. As we finish up this holiday season, keep in mind the real reason for the season: Jesus. Jesus came down to earth as a baby to save all of us from our sins. Without Jesus we would be nothing. Remember this as you go through the motions of the holidays. Thanks for reading! KyAnn Bloom! Magazine Editor/Manager bloom.editor@yahoo.com
Bloom! Staff 2
The girls that make Bloom! happen Editor/Manager: KyAnn bloom.editor@yahoo.com Writers: Bleah, Emily P, Maria, Grace, Mary Catherine, Kyla, Rachel bloomstaff@yahoo.com Photographers: Hallie, Sally, Amy, Emily M, Bethany, Lydia, Allison bloomstaff@yahoo.com Graphic Designers: Sheree, Becca, Renae, Allison bloomstaff@yahoo.com
Merry
CHRISTmas!
Happy Holidays? By Kyla
There are so many ways to greet people around the ChristmasHappy Holidays, Holiday Greetings, Merry Christmas, Happy Hanukkah, Happy Kwanza, and etcetera. It is difficult to decide which to choose. We all want to be reverent to other’s beliefs and feelings, but as Christians what should we do? I say we should use this special time to spread the light of Jesus, He is the reason for the season, and should be the focus for all celebration. Christmas is what YOU believe in, so just go ahead and wish everyone in your book a Merry CHRISTmas. That is what you are celebrating, Jesus’s- your living savior’s- birthday. So do not be ashamed to testify about our Lord. 2 Timothy 1:8 Stop fretting and trying to decide on which greeting will satisfy everyone- instead send a CHRISTmas card- and make sure everyone knows why you are celebrating. Sing joyous melodies, and dance for the Lord your God, for He sent a savior- Jesus Christ! Merry CHRISTmas to all of our wonderful Bloom readers!
CHRISTmas
By Rachel K. With Christmas fast approaching, it’s easy to get caught up in last minute shopping, planning things to do during time off, and maybe helping to cook that fabulous holiday food. On Christmas morning the only thing most people look forward too is seeing family and finally finding out what’s in those packages that have been under the tree. But, even with all that, I feel like I’m forgetting to talk about something...oh, yeah, What about Christ? Even with His name taking up half of the word, it seems many people forget the Christ in Christmas. We tend to overlook that the holiday’s not really about Santa and Rudolph. It’s His birthday. Imagine for a moment, if you will, that on your next birthday instead of people saying “Happy Birthday!” they said “Merry June 11th! (or whatever day your birthday happens to fall on)” and you get no presents or no cake. Wouldn’t you feel at least slightly forgotten? Like even though it was your day everyone seemed more happy that it was simply that day of the year and refused to acknowledge it as the day you were born? I can’t help but wonder if maybe that’s what He feels like sometimes, or maybe a lot of the time. He has every right to. Christmas wouldn’t exist without Him—that’s a fact that cannot be disputed because the answer’s in the name. So why do we push Him out of the one or two days of the year that we really should be remembering Him? That’s a question I simply can’t answer because the answer’s different for everyone. This year, read the Christmas story, and if you have any imagination whatsoever try to put yourself into the words. Let’s put Christ back in Christmas. 2
“Christmas began in the heart of God. It is complete only when it reaches the heart of man.” How can that happen? We have to open our heart to Him. Without Jesus Christmas, however much celebrated, is non-existent. Instead of saying “Happy Holidays!” just say “Merry Christmas!” Whatever you say you’re most likely going to offend someone even if you try to play it safe. “Merry Christmas” offends non-Christians, and “Happy Holidays” offends those like me who think Christmas should be celebrated as it used to be. On this matter, I think it’s best to go with what He would like to hear.
The Bronze Bow Book Review By Maria H. The Bronze Bow is a historically accurate book of fiction written by Elizabeth George Speare. The setting is in Galilee during the time period of Christ. It is a beautiful example of the mark that Jesus left in so many hearts and lives. Witness how one life was changed by the irresistible impression that is made on a sinner when they look into the all-knowing, loving eyes of Jesus.
suppressing his hatred.
Daniel Bar Jamin had but one all-consuming purpose in life – to revenge the Romans who had invaded their land, crucified his father and uncle, killed his mother and cause so much fear in his sister that she had become possessed of demons. Fleeing from Amalek (to whom he was apprenticed to) he climbed up into the mountains...where Rosh found him. Rosh was a ring-leader in the mountains to a band of men who vowed to someday fight the Romans. But Rosh never seemed in any hurry to fight the Romans and seemed more interested in robbing and raiding their own people. When Simon, Daniels friend persuaded him to come back down to the village to live (after Amalek had died) Daniel found the Romans, who were constantly marching by, to much to handle, and foolishly refrained from
To find out how exactly this tale turns out, request The Bronze Bow from your local library or purchase a copy online. In this stirring tale of Daniel and the King of love, you will be inspired to forgive, and love...even your enemies. 3
BeTrue2U A monthly beauty column by Emily P.
Hands and Face • • • • •
Add almond oil to the dishwater when you’re washing the dishes to keep your hands moisturized. Heat up a cup of milk and soak your hands in it. This will soften them. Put lotion on your face, hands and legs every night to keep from getting dry skin this winter. Don’t over scrub your face. This will make you break out. Gently wash your face two times a day and put lotion on. Smile! This will make you feel and look better.
“Being happy doesn’t mean everything is perfect. It means you’ve decided to look beyond the imperfections.” ~Author Unknown
Make Your Own Hair Spray
• Chop a lemon (or orange for dry hair) and place in pot with 2 cups of water. Boil until half of the initial amount remains. Cool and strain. Put in a spray bottle and put in refrigerator; add one ounce of rubbing alcohol and it will last two weeks out of the refrigerator.
When it Comes to Hair…True or False? •
Rinsing your hair with cold water makes it shiner. True False
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Your hair grows faster in the summer. True False
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Your hair gets used to the same shampoo, so you should switch brands often. True False
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Brushing your hair one hundred strokes will make your hair shiny. True False
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Eating protein will make your hair thicker. True False
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Cutting your hair makes it grow faster. True False 4
Answers
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That’s a True! - Cold water makes the surface of the hair called the cuticle lie flat. This makes your hair shiner. You can also blow dry your hair with the cool setting for the same effect. Most likely False- Some say hair grows quicker when it’s warmer out, but there is no evidence. Hair grows about half an inch every month. Label it False! - If you have a shampoo that works nicely in your hair, you probably can keep using it. Although some conditioners can build up and make your hair dull. So you might want to try a new conditioner. Ooh that’s False! - I know everybody probably has heard that brushing your hair one hundred stokes will make your hair shiner…but that’s not true. Too much brushing roughens your hair and can make it really oily. A few gentle stokes will make your hair shiny. False! - Hair is mostly made of protein, but eating more hamburgers won’t make your hair any thicker. Another False! - Cutting your hair won’t make it grow faster. But trimming the ends of your hair every month will keep your hair healthy. It also will make you hair grow more because it won’t keep splitting off. You are Beautiful…keep smiling!!! “Man looks at the outward appearance, but the Lord looks at the heart.” ~1 Samuel 16:7
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Christmas When You Were 5 Years Old By Grace What did you get for Christmas when you were 5? Can you remember? Maybe it was a dollhouse, a new pair of ice skates, or a baby doll. Probably can’t remember, can you? Or if you do remember, it’s no longer important to you and it probably ended up being a broken piece of useless plastic in less than a year. Although, what you got for Christmas when you were 5 may not be important to you anymore, I bet on that Christmas morning, you counted the minutes until you could burst downstairs and tear open the presents that awaited you under the tree. At the time, they brought you joy, excitement and contentment. What about now? Now I’m not saying there is anything wrong with being excited about Christmas morning and getting presents! I love the magical feeling on Christmas morning as the fire dances in the fireplace and Christmas lights flicker on the tree! But it makes me realize, as I think about the gifts I received so many years ago…where do I look for fulfillment? Where do I look for to find contentment what do I depend on to bring me joy? Did you ever watch Veggie Tale’s Madam Blueberry as a kid? In the popular children’s movie, Madam Blueberry says to herself “If I only that sofa, dish set, etc. then I would be happy.” But soon, her life is full of so many things that weigh her down and she is left more miserable then before. I confess that quite frequently, I act like Madam Blueberry. I say to myself “If only I had that cell phone/iPod/sweater etc. I would be happy and have everything I need”. I also depend on things such as Facebook, blogging, and talking with friends to make me happy. Even going one day without my computer is sadly, a struggle. It simply doesn’t work to look to those things for fulfillment. God created us for Him. To worship Him. Doing what we are created for will fulfill us completely! Putting my time/energy/money/thought life into the things of this world only leaves me more unstaisifed and longing for more stuff. For the love of money is a root of all kinds of evil. Some people, eager for money, have wandered from the faith and pierced themselves with many griefs. 1 Timothy 6:10 Unlike the gift I got at Christmas when I was 5 that I can’t even remember, spending time with Jesus leaves me completely satisfied in His peace that surpasses all understanding, the things of this world will grow strangely dim, and I am complete in the presence of my Savior. Weight is lifted off my shoulders and I am refreshed and free. This Christmas, when the media tells you that you must buy this gift and wear this coat to have a happy Christmas season, step back and spend time thanking your Prince of Peace, Mighty Counselor and Savior. Ask him to give you a Christ-consumed heart and to not lose sight of what is truly important. Merry Christmas! Check out these verses: What good will it be for a man if he gains the whole world, yet forfeits his soul? Matthew 16:26 But godliness with contentment is great gain. For we brought nothing into the world, and we can take nothing out of it. 1 Timothy 6:5-7
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By Mary Catherine
Deck The Halls
Everyone loves a party. And what better reason to party than to celebrate the birth of our Savior, the Lord Jesus Christ? The frigid cold air, the pine scent, and the sparkly lights are only elements of an amazing Christmas. But here are some more fun ideas to throw the ultimate holiday party. {The Perfect Décor} What’s a party without amazing flower arrangements, cool streamers, and other artistic decorations? Well, it’s not a party! These are some fun and simple ways to jazz up your house for Christmas. {Giant Candy} Name one person who doesn’t like Christmas food. I don’t even like fruitcake, but I still eat it sometimes in the spirit of Christmas tradition! But you know what’s even better? Giant Christmas candy, right in your front yard. Just make sure that the squirrels don’t get too hungry. Candy Canes: {Step 1} For this craft, you need old pool noodles. It helps if you have a pool, because the noodles will be retired for the winter anyway. If not, borrow a friend’s pool noodles - or just make the giant peppermints! {Step 2} Buy white crepe paper streamers. Take the end of one and tape it securely to the top of the foam noodle. Begin to wrap the streamer around the noodle at a diagonal slant, like a candy cane. {Step 3} When you have wrapped the entire noodle, it should still be completely straight. To make the top curved like a real candy cane, take the streamer at the end that you just wrapped (note - do not cut off a segment of streamer because you’ll never know how much you’ll need - just wrap straight from the ball of streamers until you’re done) and wrap it around the middle of the noodle, pulling the top in and making it curved. Tape securely. {Note - these are NOT weatherproof. Put them inside on rainy/snowy days} Peppermints: {Step 1} I know that everyone has Frisbees. Take them out of the dusty corners of your garage and put them to use when it’s too cold to throw them in the park! {Step 2} Buy colored plastic or tissue paper and lay out a large square of it using about three layers. Place the Frisbee in the middle of the square and pinch the ends in, so that it looks like a wrapped piece of candy. Tie it off on both ends with string or decorative ribbon. Resist the urge to eat it. 7
{Floral Arrangements} Don’t worry. Holiday flower arrangements are really easy and fun to make, with simple materials that go a long way. {DESERT} When I think of a Christmas dinner or party, this is of course the very first thing that comes to mind. Whether it’s simple decorated sugar cookies or pine tree shaped rice crispie treats, we all eat a lot more sugar during the holidays! {Colored Snowball Cookies} Ingredients 2-1/4 cups flour 1/2 teaspoon baking powder 1/2 teaspoon baking soda 1/2 teaspoon salt 1/4 teaspoon ground nutmeg 1/2 cup vegetable shortening 2 tablespoons soft butter 1 cup sugar 1 large egg 1/3 cup sour cream 1 teaspoon vanilla extract 1 teaspoon grated lemon zest Colored sugar or edible glitter {Step 1} Sift the flour, baking powder, baking soda, salt, and nutmeg into a large mixing bowl. In a separate bowl, mix the shortening and butter. Gradually mix in the sugar. Beat in the egg until blended, then the sour cream, vanilla extract, and lemon zest. {Step 2} With a wooden spoon, stir the dry ingredients into the creamed mixture half at a time, until evenly mixed. Cover the dough with plastic wrap and refrigerate it for 30 to 60 minutes. {Step 3} Shortly before baking heat the oven to 350 degrees. Lightly grease one or two large cookie sheets, or line them with parchment paper. Put the decorative sugar into small bowls. {Step 4} With lightly floured hands, shape the dough into 1-1/2-inch-thick balls. Roll the balls in the colored sugar and place them on the prepared baking sheets spaced about 3 inches apart. Bake the cookies on the center oven rack for 15 to 18 minutes, until they’re a light golden brown. Cool the cookies on the sheet for 2 to 3 minutes. Then use a spatula to transfer them to a wire rack to finish cooling. {The Reason for the Season} Parties are fun. But why do we actually celebrate? Even though we don’t know that December 25th is actually Jesus’ birthday, it’s still the day we set aside. Remember that it isn’t the gifts that count at all, it’s what is always inside our heart - the love of God. Here’s to a cheerful holiday season!
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Christ The Savior Is Born A Collection of Christmas Quotes
By Amy T.
“Let us keep Christmas beautiful Without a thought of greed, That it might live forevermore To fill our every need, That it shall not be just a day, But last a lifetime through, The miracle of Christmastime That brings God close to you.” -Ann Schultz Believe it or not, Christmastime is here. The air is increasingly colder. Some are experiencing snow already. Young children begin to chatter about St. Nicholas. Indeed, many minds are focused on those Oh, I want that for Christmas, too! thoughts. What is often overlooked, however, is that we would have nothing to celebrate- no day to receive presents- if Christ, our Saviour, had not been born. Silent Night, Holy Night, All is calm, All is bright. Round yon virgin, Mother and Child, Holy infant so tender and mild... Christ the Saviour is born, Christ the Savior is born. -Joseph Mohr (translation unknown) These famous words (the words to a well-known Christmas song) illustrate the point: Christ the Saviour is born. Do not be afraid. I bring ye good news of great joy that shall be for all people. Today in the town of David a Saviour hath been born unto you; he is Christ the Lord... Glory to God in the highest, and on earth peace to men on whom his favor rests.” -Luke 2:10b-11,14
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This is why we keep Christmas as a time of laughter and joy and calmness and relaxation and family and friends. A time to become closer to our Father. A time of reverence of our holy Redemptioner, our Messiah, the Son of I Am. A time of worship. A time of love. “Best of all, Christmas means a spirit of love, a time when the love of God and the love of our fellow men should prevail over all hatred and bitterness, a time when our thoughts and deeds and the spirit of our lives manifest the presence.” -Tom Sims This Christmas, let us try to remember why we celebrate it. Let us worship the Lord with service, and loving-kindness to others, and devotion to Him. Let us keep Christmas beautiful without a thought of greed. Christmas is not about presents. Christmas is not about the plentiful food. Christmas is about Jesus. “Christmas in Bethlehem. The ancient dream: a cold, clear night made brilliant by a glorious star, the smell of incense, shepherds and wise men falling to their knees in adoration of the sweet baby, the incarnation of perfect love.” -Lucinda Franks “Where is the one who has been born King of the Jews? We saw his star in the east and have come to worship him.” -Matthew 2:2b “Christmas gift suggestions: To your enemy, forgiveness. To an opponent, tolerance. To a friend, your heart. To a customer, service. To all, charity. To every child, a good example. To yourself, respect.” -Oren Arnold To Jesus, Adoration. Mind you, the Christmas season is still a wonderful and joyous thing, and enjoying this is not a sin. While doing so, however, make sure you spend time in adoration of Him. One more thing. Ask Jesus for opportunity this Christmas: Opportunity to share the love He offers to those who do not have it. “We must tell them that there is no pit so deep that He is not deeper still.” -Betsie ten Boom A final word from Christ Himself... Until now you have not asked for anything in my name. Ask and you will receive, and your joy will be complete. {-John 16:24} God bless you, and have a very merry Christmas!
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Monkeys? Really? An Article On Evolution In Schools By Kyla
Many of us have, or will, eventually endure the dreaded lesson on Darwin’s theory of evolution. I recently, while sitting in US history, was forced to go through (once again) the theory that has swept the nation- that we evolved from monkey. Alright- so the first thing I ask when someone states their belief that we evolved from monkeys is- “How did the monkey get here?” Most often the response is, “Oh, it evolved over time from bacteria.” Alright, swell- there is a theory! Then I respond, “Well where did the bacteria come from? How did it get on Earth?” That is when the science based and very confused student often states, “Two meteors collided in space- it’s the Big Bang Theory.” Fair enough, but then I take it a step further- “How did the meteors get there? Who or what made them?” It honestly can go on and on! But what is the purpose- even if they trace it down to a tiny speck of dust that was floating in outer space 500, 744, 322 BILLION years ago I can still ask, “What/who created that speck?” It is inevitable, the Earth was created by the hands of God- everything is created by something else- a tree is created by a seed- however what made the seed? It is the same concept with evolution. Many claim that their theories can/have been scientifically proven, therefore creation is a total faux coverup for Christians, however the story of creation makes logical sense. Stories such as Noah’s ark that are often disregarded as myth can be proved by fossils and rocks! Logically it makes since that we can find as many fossils as we do- because dinosaurs and other animals would have died around the same time and therefore would be found in a specific type of rock, and layer of Earth- which is exactly the way they are found! Scientists do not realize that they are helping to prove creation while they research evolution. The theory of evolution is purely ridiculous- as said in Genesis 1:27, “So God created man in His own image.” and he sent Jesus down in his own image- therefore proving God is not some big monkey. Help others see the truth so that they will not believe the garbage that is being taught in public schools today. Then, they too may have a relationship with Jesus Christ! Who knows, maybe that next slideshow or lecture on evolution can be switched around to a revolutionary explanation of faith, and your savior. Your school is your mission field… “Do not be frightened or dismayed for the Lord your God is with you…” Joshua 1:9 11
Inside A County Jail By Maria H.
Hello! I would like you to meet Jacob. He is an inmate at the county jail. He is 19 years old, and in jail for his fifth time. Growing up, he had dreams of being a doctor. He said that he never expected to find himself in jail. And then there’s Adam. Also an inmate at the county jail. He is 39 years old, and has a lot of regrets. He has been in jail for 18 years of his life. He said that he never expected to find himself in jail. “While you’re here, I’m your boss. I make all your decisions, you don’t make anyone’s decisions. I decide when you eat and what you eat, where you sleep and when you sleep, everything. Your decision to come to jail was the last decision that you’ll make until you walk out of jail. We never turn off the lights here, There is no privacy and don’t expect to be treated well, this is jail.” Our tour leader definitely had the ability to make it seem very vivid to us. As she rattled off a whole list of things to our tour group (who she had, for the time being, locked up in 5 different jail cells) I couldn’t help but feel the utter hopelessness that pervaded everything about jail. On the wall there was a calender that the last inmate had been checking off the days one by one. If I had to describe in three words what being an inmate there would be like, they would be: cramped, sleepless, and hopeless. Cramped because the cells were so small, maybe 6’ by 8’ with only one cot in them and a toilet and a very small sink. And you didn’t get your own cell either, you would have to share it with a couple other criminals, and what they might do to you, who knows? Sleepless because they never turn the lights off and the cell ‘roommates’ are always ready to play a practical joke on you while your sleeping (the ‘practical jokes’ they told us aren t even mentionable). They said that often new jail inmates won’t even sleep the first couple nights. And hopeless because no one there is there for your good, and often going to jail causes the inmates to lose everything – their job, family, friends, girlfriend, as well as their dignity and reputation. But most of all, I wonder how many lost souls are abiding there. But, by God’s grace, some will be brought to a realization of their sin and seek the Savior. But how will they hear? Sad, yet true. I couldn’t help but wonder how many of them have had contact with Christians who had refrained from telling them the wonderful news of the gospel, I wonder how different it might have been. My purpose for writing this was not to scare or even warn you about jail, but to open your eyes to what jail is like and hopefully challenge, encourage and inspire you to share the gospel more openly. If you will, join me in prayer for these inmates, pray that their eyes would be opened to what they need most desperately: God’s amazing grace that saves even wretches like you and like me. Give thanks for the amazing grace that God has highlighted in your own life! 12
Contesting Doubts
By Mary Catherine
I sat, frustrated, at my desk, readjusting my pencil in my bun/rat’s nest thing of hair. I tapped the keys of my computer. I blew out a puff of air that sent my bangs flying. I had entered a contest for my favorite magazine that month, where I was supposed to compose an essay about what my favorite thing about Christmas was. The prize was a new laptop, and I wanted that thing so bad… I poked my skin with the pencil. It didn’t hurt. I just thought that it might get me thinking. “Macy! Come eat!” Ugh. I closed my notebook. I didn’t want to come eat. I wanted to figure out what to write for the contest. I trotted down the stairs. “So,” my mom said as she set down a plate of spaghetti in front of me. “It seems like this contest is making you a little grumpy.” “No it is not!” I said, annoyed. Then I checked myself. “I mean, no I’m not.” She raised an eyebrow and I sipped my milk without looking up. The next day, I was racking my brain for ideas when I remembered a writing assignment that my Sunday school teacher had handed out to do for fun. Maybe the concept could work for the contest. I rummaged through the Mount Everest sized stack of papers on my desk and pulled out what I was looking for - a printed piece of paper with my church’s logo on it. Write what it means to you that Christ was born to save us. Or maybe it wouldn’t work for a contest. After all, Christian things didn’t win. I used to enter contests from a Christian point of view, and I never won. So why start now? Because you would be spreading my word. I jerked my head up and didn’t doubt a second where the voice was coming from. It was Him. I realized that the whole time I had been brainstorming, what I hadn’t realized was that I already knew what the most important thing about Christmas was to me - I just hadn’t been applying it. I was ashamed of my faith. The next day, I sat down and wrote out a three page essay about the most important aspect of Christmas - the fact that Jesus Christ was born to save us and that he died for our sins around thirty years later. I penned it. I mailed it. I submitted it. I prayed about it. My mom noticed an immediate change in my behavior. I don’t know if I’ll win. All I know is that I shared the gospel with a few members of the magazine staff. And that’s what counts the most to me. Three Months Later I got home from school, avoiding the snow that had fallen overnight and heading to the kitchen for some hot chocolate - a winter staple. 13
My mom had laid out the mail on the kitchen table. I glanced over it, flipping through the bills and advertisements for all of the Christmas toys. Then I saw an envelope with my name on it. It was from the magazine contest that I had entered in September. But it appeared too casual to be a hoorayyou-won letter. I ripped it open. Dear Macy Goldberg, My name is Sterling Havengale. I was hired to scan over each contest entry for our Christmas essay contest. Although your entry did not win, I would like to say that I didn’t just scan it. I read it - through and through. I reread it. It was so moving to me that I went to church the next day and I think I’m going to accept Christ into my heart, like you said. Thank you for helping me out of a tough time in my life. --Sterling
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Ask Kat A monthly advice column for teen/tween girls Lately I haven’t been able to spend any time with my best friend because another person is spending every waking moment with her. What should I do? Dear waiting for my friend, I’m sorry to hear you are having a hard time with your best friend. Having friends can be so tricky sometimes. I had a best friend in 7th grade and she started hanging out with a friend of hers. I was jealous of their time together and secretly hoped they would get in a fight so I could have my best friend back. But the craziest thing happened; I started hanging around the both of them and that girl that I thought was stealing my friend ended up becoming my friend for life. I haven’t talked to my original friend since high school but the friend stealer, well, she was in my wedding. I guess I could tell you that to say you never know what God is up to. Keep your eyes open and be honest with your best friend and yourself. Although it might be hard to admit, you are probably a little jealous of the new relationship that you aren’t a part of. Talk to your best friend. She is your best friend for a reason, she will understand your needs and hopefully the two of you can move forward together. And who knows, maybe this other girl will actually be in your wedding. Okay, so I like this certain boy at my church. How do I keep focused on God and the sermon while I am too busy thinking about this certain boy? Help! Dear Boy Focused, Sigh, I totally understand your dilemma. I too am guilty of focusing on a boy when God is waiting for me to give HIM time. In the ministry I’m in we say, “stop focusing on the problem and focus on the solution”. At times, feelings can be so controlling and overwhelming. If you are at church to connect with God, and you are getting too distracted to do that, you have to find a time when you can connect with God. You can’t change your surroundings at church, and the more you try to ignore the boy, the more you will want to think about him! So my suggestion to you is to try to pay attention as much as you can, but create a time outside of church to spend with God. If your church records the sermons you could listen to them at home. Get in the word and keep a prayer life. There will always be distractions so you have to learn what works for you. The most important part is to keep trying. Keep trying to create that time for just you and God. You won’t regret it and everything else in your life will fall into place as well. 15
I have a problem with criticizing people. I’m always saying: “That girl has such an ugly nose” or things like that. I feel REALLY bad after I say those kinds of things. I know I shouldn’t dwell on the past things... but I feel awful! Please offer me some advice. Dear criticizing without a cause, I am a professional speaker. God has given me a gift to speak and share my life with people. However, with the same mouth that gives hope and encouragement I have been known to also tear people down. I have been in your shoes and it stinks. But there is a way out! Proverbs says, “Whoever derides their neighbor has no sense, but the one who has understanding holds their tongue. Proverbs 11:12” I have found that if I concentrate on God’s word and repeat the scriptures that talk about wisdom in my words and holding my tongue, my thinking starts to change. I suggest you do this. Do a little Bible study and write out the verses that talk about uplifting/loving others and speaking kind words. And when you find yourself wanting to say something about someone else, with all of your might say 3 good things about them. Start to discover God’s love in other people. May these words of my mouth and this meditation of my heart be pleasing in your sight, LORD, my Rock and my Redeemer. Ps. 19:14 Dear Kat, I don’t think they mean to EVERY time, but people keep, like, completely squashing my dreams. I don’t show it but it makes me really sad. I don’t want people to ruin my ambitions and joys, so what do I do??? -Squashed Dear Squashed, Don’t let anyone look down on you because you are young, but set an example for the believers in speech, in conduct, in love, in faith and in purity. 1 Timothy 4:12 As you get older society will tell you to stop dreaming. Never do it. Don’t listen to them. Follow God with all your heart because He can cause you to experience things you can’t imagine. It is people with dreams that find cures for diseases; invent new ways to feed the hungry and push others to love more. No matter what, don’t be discouraged-keep dreaming. Nothing happens unless first we dream. -Carl Sandburg
Submit your questions for Kat at bloommagazine. webs.com or email us at bloom.editor@ yahoo.com today! 16
If you commit yourself to complete purity in every way until you’re married, what do you do about crushes? Dear Crushed, We live in the world, but with Christ we have overcome the world! This is good news because although you might be tempted you are living a life of purity (which is amazingly cool!). Don’t expect to not have feelings. Living a life of purity doesn’t mean that you wont have feelings for the opposite sex. It means that when you do you should be honest with God and allow Him to lead you. This could look different for every relationship you have. God might want you to stay away from certain people for a time and you have to be in God’s will and hearing Him clearly to follow His plan. So I would suggest when you have a crush on someone that you would spend more time with God. Again, having a crush isn’t bad it’s natural! Just stay with God and He will lead you.
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In 1st Century
By Kyla
Women’s Role
Imagine living during the first century, the time of Jesus… as a woman you would not be given as many rights as men, or even slaves. You main purpose in life would be to take care of a family, and a home, and most of all to completely submit to all men- especially your husband. If you lived then, you would have had no right to talk to a man, much less pray to their God. You would be forced to cover your head, and you would not be able to read the Holy word. You wouldn’t even be able to worship. Every time that time of the month came you would be ostracized by men and called “dirty”, how would you like that during your moody time of the month? You would be separated from men and all of your common rights would be gone! Now imagine Jesus- imagine meeting him… Do you know of the story of Mary Magdalene? She had been cured of a disease by Jesus and had led a group of women to him, as the son of man. Mary was a disciple of Jesus. This does not sound strange to us in the 21st century- however this was REVOLUTIONARY in Jesus’ time, especially as a Jew. Men did not treat women as people, but instead as property, but Jesus valued Mary- for who she was, and her dedication to him. During Jesus’ time it would have not have been permitted to allow women to pray or worship publically with men- however Jesus allowed women to become “deaconesses” – a woman “deacon” in the church. Jesus’ acceptance and actions towards women as individuals is directly rebellious. He listened to their opinions, and did not judge them. Unlike social norm of the time the Bible does not portray women as silent serving shadows that have no opinions- and not religion. Rather women play an important role in Jesus’ ministry. God created both men and women, equally- granted they were created for different purposes, however neither could exist without the other- and men in the first century did not view it that way- but JESUS did! Jesus started a revolution, and gave women a role in religion… Jesus helped give sovereignty to both you and me! He showed that women were just as important as men- Jesus is our Savior- in more ways than one! 18
Don’t Worry, Be Happy! By Emily P. You’re heart is pounding. For whatever reason, you’re nervous, worried, and afraid. Maybe you have a speech to give, an instrument to play in front of a crowd, a test to take, someone new to meet, a dentist appointment, whatever it is, it‘s a step out of your comfort zone. You can’t stop thinking of all that could go wrong. What if I mess up on my speech? What if I play a wrong note? What if I fail that test? What will this person think of me? What if the dentist has to drill out all my teeth!?! What if I don’t want to step out of my comfort zone? “It is only when we get out of our comfort zones and begin to live by faith, that we truly see God at work in and though our lives.” ~Rebecca St. James It’s hard to just let go of all your worries. But that’s what you have to do. The Bible tells us over and over and over again, “don’t worry”, “be anxious of nothing”, “don’t be afraid.” Yet, how many times have I kept worrying, even after God told me I don’t have to put myself through that? This has been something I’ve been working on. I find myself worrying all the time about silly little things. But pretty much everything I worry my little head about turns out fine! After I find that out, I wish I hadn’t put myself though all that painful worrying. Time and time again, even after all the times I’ve realized that worrying gets you nowhere, I find myself back in that spot. But God forgives me and continues to tell me, “I will never leave you.” (Joshua 1:5). God cares about all the little insignificant things I am worrying about. God is awesome! But, still I ignore it and say “But God, I’m really nervous about it. I don’t think I can do this.” God wants to walk you through it all the way; whether it’s a small worry or a big worry. This year I did a lot of new things that were out of my comfort zone. It was good for me to step out of my zone and do new, hard things. I went to a Catholic media camp and had to talk in front of a camera, read in front of the group and be in a short interview. I wasn’t sure I was really comfortable with that, but I did it! It was good for me to do something I didn’t think I could do. This quote from Take It from Me, by Molly Buchan says it well. “Be willing to reach out in the very most areas in which you feel the most insecure.” I also used to be a little shy and wrapped up in my own feelings. But the last few years, I’ve really been working on getting out of my comfort zone, and reaching out to others. And you know what? It feels so much better when you start to focus on other people, instead of how you are feeling. I’ve also made a lot of great friends by reaching out. Joy= Jesus, Others, You. “Blessed are those whose strength is in you. Who have set their hearts on pilgrimage.” ~Psalm 84:5 19
Remember that God is ALWAYS with you and He really wants you to tell Him all your fears and worries. He wants you to rest in His love. Some things are out of our control. There’s no use in worrying about it. The Bible says that worrying does not add any time to your life. So why worry? Let God fill you to the top with his peace. Keep calm and carry on! God will not abandon you. He’s our daddy and loves us more then we’ll ever, ever know! Doesn’t that make you want to just jump up and down, dance and smile REALLY big?? =D Isn’t God soooooooooo amazing?!? Here are some Bible verses and quotes that I really like: “Do not be anxious about anything, but in everything by prayer and petition, with thanksgiving, present your requests to God. And the peace of God, which transcends all understanding, will guard your hearts and your minds in Christ Jesus.” ~Philippians 4:6 “I will lie down and sleep in peace, for you alone, O Lord, make me dwell in safety.” ~Psalm 4:8 “Lord, you have been our dwelling place throughout all generations.” ~Psalm 90:1 “Peace I leave with you; my peace I give you. I do not give to you as the world gives. Do not let your hearts be troubled and do not be afraid.” ~John 14:27 “Fear of man will prove to be a snare, but whoever trusts in the Lord is kept safe.” Proverbs 29:25 “Have I not commanded you? Be strong and courageous. Do not be terrified; do not be discouraged, for the Lord your God will be with you wherever you go.” ~ Joshua 1:9 See? There are a lot of bible verses telling you to NOT be afraid or worried! “Be not afraid, I go before you always, come follow me, and I will give you rest.” ~ Hymn by Bob Dufford, SJ. “We would worry less about what others think about us, if we realized how very seldom they do.” ~ Ethel Barrett. (soooo true!) “Each morning when I open my eyes I say to myself: I, not events, have the power to make me happy or unhappy today. I can choose which it shall be. Yesterday is dead, tomorrow hasn’t arrived yet. I have just one day, today, and I’m going to be happy in it.” - Groucho Marx And here are some things I do to calm my anxiety: ·Before you do anything, pray! Remember the bible verses and ask God to calm your fears. ·Tests - (my brother taught me this one) Have a banana and a glass of cold water before your test. Really works! ·A nice cup of hot tea can calm a nervous stomach. I wouldn’t recommend having any caffeinated coffee when you’re nervous. For me, it gives me a stomach ache. ·Try to do something to distract yourself. Watch a movie, write, take a run. ·Know that 99% of the things you worry about, never even happen. ·Don’t worry, be HAPPY! =)=)=) 20
The Crazy, Mixed Up Life of Alexis Marie Fitzpatrick Dear Diary, Thursday Morning Can you believe how close it is to Christmas? I mean, tomorrow is Christmas Eve! I know it sounds a little - okay, a lot - cliché, but it’s totally my favorite holiday. Ever. The weather has been so cold lately. Well, okay - not exactly blizzard - causing weather, but it’s definitely a start. I shouldn’t hope for a white Christmas because that will never happen. Okay, random thoughts aside, the only problem with Christmas is the giving-gifts-to-others part. Don’t get me wrong - I’m not really a selfish person. It’s just that forty-seven dollars doesn’t exactly buy enough gifts for an entire extended family. And to think, in second grade it seemed to go a lot farther. I don’t get paid at the store (isn’t that sad?), so I’m on my own gifts-wise. I’m actually going to the store all day today because we’re having a huge day-before-Christmas-Eve sale and we aren’t open on Sundays. I’ll have to tell you about it when I get back. --Alexis Marie Dear Diary, Thursday Evening If you could smell the chocolate pie that mom is baking for dinner tomorrow (although you’re a diary and shouldn’t by smelling anything), you would probably pass out with delight. Yes, it smells that amazing. But back to my problems. There’s still two days until Christmas, and I haven’t earned any money since this morning. But I got an idea while I was at work… Dawn and I were putting all of the new Christmas fiction on the shelves (how many Christmas books do people write per year? Like, twenty?) and I was explaining my predicament of low funds to her. She’s a great listener - I vent to her all the time. Luckily, she doesn’t really mind. Any other person would have put in earplugs by now. “Isn’t it sad?” I said, stuffing another copy on the shelf behind the dollar-store holiday garland. “There aren’t any jobs out there for teenagers.” She shrugged. “I know what you mean. I had a really hard time earning money when I was your age, especially during the holidays.” “So what did you do?” She shrugged again. “You know what they say - homemade gifts are always the best.” It was my turn to shrug. “That’s a good idea, I guess.” So this afternoon I dug in the back of my closet and pulled out the glass bead set that someone had given me for my ninth birthday. It took a few hours, but I made a blue necklace that matches Mom’s favorite shirt perfectly. For my dad, I had a little bit of a hard time. But I finally found an amazing picture that I had taken of him last year and asked Mom if she could take me to buy a nice frame for it (at least I could afford that). So now I finally have something descent to give both of my parents! For the extended family (a.k.a. grandparents) I took each of their names and made an acrostic out of them - pretty crafty if I do say so myself - then typed them up and framed those, too. So overall - Dawn’s idea worked! Maybe I should make her a necklace too… --Alexis Marie Deuteronomy 16:17 Every man shall give as he is able, according to the blessing of the LORD your God which He has given you. 21
Christmas Recipes
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Be Home For Christmas By Bethany
(Day 1) The day before Christmas Eve Nothing was right. Life wasn’t fair. There were three days ‘till Christmas, and my brother still wasn’t home from Iraq. He left six months ago, promising to be home before Christmas. But he still wasn’t here. My mother was devastated. And she tried to hide it by taking me Christmas shopping. But all I could think was, Who wants to go shopping during Christmas? But, you didn’t know my mother. The woman was a menace. Like right now for example. We were at Wal-Mart, and in the thick of a HUGE crowd. I was pushing. And she was in the cart; with her bullhorn. I stumbled, twisted and shouted as people stepped on my feet. I saw my mother point at the Princeton Watches that were half off. I sped towards them, bumping into people’s hips, earning yells, and glares. My mom was yelling into her bull-horn, telling people to get out of her way, or face her wrath. Most people backed off, but some tried to race us. But, with my maniacal steering skills, they ate our dust. Today was successful. We went home, bags in hand, and tossed them onto the couch. We heated up our supper, and ate in front of the TV, laughing, and pointing at the screen. We turned channels, and fell asleep watching a Christmas movie. *************** (Day 2) Christmas Eve I, like most teenagers on Christmas break, woke up at noon. “’Bout time you woke up.” My mother grouched. “What’s for breakfast?” I asked sleepily, scratching my stomach groggily. “You mean lunch. And, you are on your own for today.” Mom replied. I noticed her fancy outfit. “Going somewhere snazzy?” I asked. “Yes.” She said. “Your great Aunt Margaret has invited me to shop with her today.” I felt my heart sink to my toes. “But-” I spluttered. “Yes, dear. I know its Christmas Eve. I’m sorry.” She apologized. And then she left. I could tell that she was hurting. Even if she didn’t tell me right off from the start. I sat down, thinking of things I could do today. I decided to wrap my presents to mom, and my brother Gregory. As I wrapped, I wondered where Greg was. He wasn’t dead, because the Army People hadn’t called to let us know. Maybe his flight got delayed. When I was done wrapping the presents, I went to my room, not really hungry, and got ready for bed. I got changed and decided to pray. “Dear Lord, Please protect my brother, wherever he is. Dear God, please grant this family a Christmas miracle. My mom is devastated. After we lost Dad, she hung on tighter to Greg, more than ever. Please. We need my brother back. Please keep him safe. Bring him home for good. Amen.” Tears stung my eyes as I climbed into bed, and fell asleep. 23
The middle of the night, (DAY 2)
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I woke with a jolt. It sounded like the back door opening. It couldn’t be Mom, she was already home. I crept out of bed, and grabbed my bat. Like a cat, I slunk down the stair steps, keeping my bat raised. I walked quietly towards the kitchen, preparing myself for war. But what I saw, wasn’t a burglar. I ran forward, dropping my bat on the counter, and fell upon the person in the doorway. I cried and cried, hugging him tighter. “Gregory! Where have you been?” I sobbed. He hugged me back. “My flight got delayed, B.” I felt him shake a little. “I’m so sorry.” I pulled back slightly. “You said you would be home on Christmas!” I protested. “I am.” I could here the smile in his voice. “Look at the clock.” I did. And it was freakishly early on Christmas morning. Greg stepped back. “Look out the door.” He suggested. I did. “It’s snowing!” I whispered. I started with a jolt. “Come on.” I grabbed Gregory’s hand and pulled him up the stairs. We charged into Mom’s room. “Mom!” I shouted. “Look who came home!” She bolted upright. “Darling, what’s-” She choked off. “Gregory?” she whispered. “HeyMom; I told you I’d be home Christmas.” Greg said calmly. We collapsed on Mom’s bed and hugged and cried, and cried and hugged. “Merry Christmas.” I whispered.
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Thanks for reading! I hope you enjoyed the December issue of Bloom! Be prepared for some new changes and an awesome start to 2011 with the 5th issue of Bloom! that releases February 15, 2011. Check our website for more information and updates! As always, we would love to hear your suggestions, comments, and ideas-email us at bloom.editor@yahoo.com! Merry Christmas and Happy New Year’s!
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