THE
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magazine an original since 2005
H O HM OE M TEO U E L E B H R A A L T RO U| RL E| T S' SP OC T I G T T |E K| I LDOSC AC LO RT N E ER N T AG G I E
O W N E D
A N D
O PER AT E D
Don’t let varicose veins come between you and your life. If you experience pressure, pain, swelling, heaviness or restlessness in your legs, it may be due to venous disease. Left untreated, venous diseases such as varicose veins can lead to blood clots, skin ulcerations and other serious complications.
David Sees, M.D. Board-Certified in Cardiothoracic Surgery
To treat venous disease, David Sees, M.D., uses minimally invasive procedures, which can be easier and result in less pain for patients. In addition, there is usually less swelling, heaviness and restlessness after the procedure. To schedule an appointment, call 936-249-0682.
WHCardiac.com Member of the Medical Staff at Woodland Heights Medical Center. Woodland Heights Medical Center is owned in part by physicians. Patient results may vary. Consult your physician about the benefits and risks of any surgical procedure or treatment.
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J U LY ART CAMP
4 6
Art Camp classes are open for children ages 4 to 14 throughout the summer months. Sessions are offered in both the morning and the afternoon and participants pre-register for the courses of their choice. For more information, visit the Museum of East Texas website.
INDEPENDENCE DAY "Life, liberty, and the pursuit of happiness" is a familiar saying, but did you know those words were originally written on on July 4, 1776 in one of the most celebrated documents in modern history—the U.S. Declaration of Independence? So get your grill ready, watch a fireworks show, and sing the national anthem, because it’s the Fourth of July!
JURASSIC PARK Join us at the Pines Theater, July 6th, as we celebrate the 25th anniversary of the 1993 hit movie, Jurassic Park. The movie is about huge advancements in scientific technology that enabled a mogul to create an island full of living dinosaurs. John Hammond invites four individuals, along with his two grandchildren, to join him at Jurassic Park. But, does everything go according to plan? You will have to come watch to find out. See you there!
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NATIONAL HOT DOG DAY
National Hot Dog Day is a celebration of grilled wieners and toasted buns. Whether you are at the ballpark, cooking out in your backyard or on the lake for a fun weekend, this is the iconic go to food. So grab your friends on this day and celebrate this comfort food that has been around for decades.
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MAIN STREET MARKET DAYS
22
PARENTS' DAY
Join us for our monthly market in downtown Lufkin. First Street will be closed to through traffic and the streets will be lined with vendors! Come shop and browse with our local downtown merchants and vendors from all across Texas. For more information about Main Street Market Days, please call 936-6330359.
Most of us would be lost without our parents. That’s why it’s good that we have a day set aside especially for them, National Parents’ Day, celebrated on the fourth Sunday in July. National Parents’ Day wasn’t established until 1994 when the President signed a Congressional Resolution “recognizing, uplifting, and supporting the role of parents in bringing up their children.”
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a l e t te r fro m th e
OW N E R
'
IN V I L Y S GET B U ' or GET B U S Y DYIN . -
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ta ble of
CON T E N T S features
home
community
34 SPOTLIGHT
12 HOME TOUR
32 20 QUESTIONS
6 9 PLACES & FACES
20 IN THE KITCHEN
38 WISDOM FROM THE WORD
24 TIPS & TRICKS
42 LOCAL TALENT
26 LET'S GET FIT
The Journey Magazine is available free of charge each month per reader. Mail service of The Journey Magazine may be purchased for $50 for 12 issues. Mail check to: The Journey Magazine, P.O. Box 150351, Luf kin, TX, 75915, or contact kogden@luf kinjourneymagazine.com
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ta ble of | C O N T E N T S
sports & outdoors
family
50 GANDY NOTES
89 NATURE'S EYE
54 KIDS' CORNER
TEXAS OUTDOOR EVENTS WATER SAFETY
6 0 EVERYTHING ELSE 6 4 SELF LOVE
reader showcase
84 YOUR CHALLENGE 85 YOUR JOURNEY
FLOAT TRIP NWTF NEWS AROUND THE CAMPFIRE
THE
magazine an original since 2005
OW N E R & D I R E C TO R :
Kim Ogden
kogden@lufkinjourneymagazine.com M A NAG I N G E D I TO R :
Beth Johnson beth@lufkinjourneymagazine.com
C OV E R A N D F E AT U R E S P H O T O G R A P H Y:
Lisa Crow
L AY O U T D E S I G N & A D V E RT I S I N G D E S I G N :
Kelly Hudman
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CONTRIBUTORS:
Kris Ball Dale Bounds Emily Courtney/Nature's Eye Angela Gandy Barbara Gilbreath Kate Rudasill Aaron Wilson
C O N TA C T U S : Mailing:
P.O. Box 150351 Lufkin, Texas 75915
Physical:
1302 East Lufkin Avenue Lufkin, Texas 75901 936-366-5463
Online:
facebook.com/thejourneymagazine instagram.com/thejourneymagazine www.lufkinjourneymagazine.com
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a l e t te r fro m th e
E DI T O R When the routine and schedule of the school year end, I tend to compile huge lists of everything that I would like to accomplish during the summer. You know, all those things that we don’t have time to do during the school year, making photo books, organizing recipes, cleaning out the closets, etc. However, I have two spirited, young girls who have dreams of lazy mornings, water sprinklers and endless adventure. Now I'm not saying you should completely throw out order. Anyone who knows me understands that I believe all homes thrive on structure. We still have our morning chores and daily independent reading time, but I’m being intentional about remembering to have fun this summer. I have a friend who has a hula girl in her van, and I’ve always admired that little gal constantly swinging back and forth. No matter how many times I see it, I always grin. (Thanks, Chrissy!) I decided that would be a great constant reminder for me, so I got my own hula girl. I went with a f lamingo instead of an actual girl, because that just f its me better. Meet Lola. She’s our summer mascot, and my girls and I decided that she’s going to remind us that no matter what the day holds, we should celebrate and have fun. It’s only July, and we’ve already had enough fun to f ill an entire summer. From tubing behind the boat to zip lining, to sliding down water slides at camp to dancing in recitals, we’ve smiled, laughed and loved a lot. We’ve also read some fabulous books and had some very relaxing days. I hope you’re taking the time to have fun and enjoy each day. It passes by so quickly; don’t waste any opportunity to smile big and make memories! All the way home,
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H OM E T O U R | I N T H E K I T C H E N | T I P S & T R I C K S | L E T ' S G E T F I T
wel co m e | H O M E
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the
T H E LOV E S A N D T H E W H I T E S welcome us to the beach Tennessee Love gives us a tour of the beautiful front row beach house, Amazing Grace. Located on Crystal Beach, this vacation home was a joint venture between the Love and White families.
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home | H O M E
T O U R
Bruce has been fortunate to be invited to the DeVore family vacation since 1994, and I started coming several years later. Crystal Beach is an amazing place to vacation, and each time we visited, Bruce was constantly scouting for real estate. When Ike hit Crystal head on, there were many opportunities for people who wanted to rebuild. Kevin and Beth found an amazing deal and bought a few lots and built several homes. Over time, Bruce and Kevin got together to collaborate on a front row lot. When we started this project, we hoped to f inish it in a few months. Hurricane Harvey delayed f inishing the home; it seems all subcontractors in Texas are in Houston restoring homes. It took longer, but we are happy with the end result.
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Beth and Kevin chose the backsplash. We think it is cool, too. It draws you into the kitchen. There are two refrigerators as well as a full-size washer and dryer. We also included a lift for carrying luggage and groceries. The big deck has amazing views; on the second level deck, you can see for miles both ways. The home is close to the Big Store, so the location is extremely convenient. Our goal in designing the home was to have the most functional front row home with seven bedrooms and f ive baths.
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home | H O M E
T O U R
Beth and Kevin have built several houses, and they all looked fresh, clean and relaxing. We duplicated what had been done before with a little of our own twist. It was a group effort with Beth leading the way. Bruce and Kevin did most of the layout with a little help from Mike Hineman of Dream Homes. There are a lot of beds in the home; we f igured if we sleep them, they will come. These homes are expensive to rent, so we might as well accommodate as many folks as we can to ensure the cost is as economical as we can make it.
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home | H O M E
T O U R
The bunk beds are very unique. They are all Kevin's designs. He has some real 'wood geek' to him. The beds are named 'The Battleship Texas', 'HHS Bounty', 'Yellow Submarine' and one other famous ship of destruction. He built them, and Bruce f inished them out. There were plenty of aching bones and muscles as they crammed into the bunks staining and painting them. It took a while, but they are pleased with the outcome.
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Beth and Kevin have the 'where to buy' down to a science. We recommend you hire them to decorate your home. They have about 50 websites bookmarked. Kevin made the dinner table and sofa table. After some convincing, Kevin let Bruce stain and f inish it out. It is an amazing table and end piece full of character and East Texas oak, dragged to the beach. Kevin broke his f inger carrying it upstairs, so he should get all the credit. We love the outcome and don't know much of anything we would change if we were to do it again. I will say, it's much easier to decorate a beach house than my own home, because Beth did all the work! If you'd like to rent our home, check out swedesrealestate.com or call them at 409-684-3345. You can also email us at rentals@dpsol.com
Protecting them is a big decision... Go with Texas’s biggest broker.
59 South • higginbotham.net • 936-634-2291 JOURNEY_July2018.indd 19
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AS AMERICAN AS
Apple Pie
from
Kate Rudasill’s Kitchen
N E 22001188 20 | J U LY
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FLAKY HOMEMADE PIE CRUST INGREDIENTS2 ½ cups all purpose flour ½ teaspoon salt 2 tablespoons white sugar 12 tablespoons (1 ½ sticks) salted butter, frozen ½ cup vegetable shortening, frozen ¼ cup vodka 4-6 tablespoons ice water
This would be a fun activity to do with the whole family. Don't forget the icecream!
DIRECTIONSIn a large bowl, mix flour, salt, and sugar until combined. With a hand held cheese grater and working quickly, grate frozen butter and shortening into the flour mixture. With a pastry blender, a fork, or the tips of your fingers, quickly work the butter and shortening into the flour until it looks crumbly like damp sand. Add the vodka and 2-3 tablespoons of ice water. Use a fork and gently mix until the dough begins to hold together. Add 2-3 more tablespoons of ice water, 1 tablespoon at a time, if the dough is too dry and will not stick together. Divide pie dough in half, form into discs, cover with plastic wrap or place in a plastic storage bag. Refrigerate for at least 1 hour before rolling. NOTESDo not handle the dough too much or your hands will warm it and start to melt the butter, resulting in a less-flaky crust. Wrapped in an air-tight plastic baggie or several layers of plastic wrap, a disk of this pie dough may be stored in the freezer for up to 3 months. Thaw in the refrigerator for a day or two before rolling out.
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home | I N
T H E
K I T C H E N
APPLE PIE FILLING INGREDIENTS6-8 medium/large apples, peeled, cored, and thinly sliced (about 6-7 cups) (I use a mixture of Granny Smith, Honeycrisp, and Pink Lady apples, but several apple varieties are fantastic for pies!) ½ cup brown sugar ½ cup white sugar 2 tablespoons all purpose f lour ½ cup heavy cream 2 tablespoons Mexican vanilla extract 1 lemon, zested and juiced ½ teaspoon cinnamon ½ teaspoon apple pie spice 1/8 teaspoon salt
APPLE PIE DIRECTIONSPreheat oven to 425°F. Roll one disc of chilled pie dough to f it a 9 inch, deep-dish pie plate. Lightly f lour your work surface and rolling pin. Roll out the disk of dough from the center moving outward, turning it a quarter turn and repeating until the diameter of the whole crust is about 4 inches larger than the pie pan. If dough begins to tear or split, use your f ingers to pinch it back together. Place bottom crust in pie plate. Roll out second disc of pie dough for top crust and place in refrigerator to stay cold. In a small bowl, mix brown sugar, white sugar, f lour, heavy cream, vanilla extract, lemon zest, lemon juice, cinnamon, apple pie spice, and salt until smooth. 22 | J U LY 2 0 1 8
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Place sliced apples in a large bowl and add sugar/cream mixture. Mix well with your hands or a large spoon so that every apple slice is coated with the mixture. Add apple slices to bottom crust using your hands or a slotted spoon and discard any remaining cream mixture. Arrange slices in layers, heaping them in the center of the pie. Carefully transfer the top crust to the pie. Using the back of a knife or a pair of scissors, trim the edges of the dough to ½ inch. Pinch the dough seam together to seal and use a fork or your f ingers to add a decorative edge. Make several small slits in the top crust to allow steam to escape. Place pie plate on a rimmed baking sheet to catch any leaks. Bake pie at 425°F for 15-20 minutes or until the edges of the crust are golden brown. Remove pie from the oven and place a strip of aluminum foil around the edges to prevent the crust from burning. Reduce the oven temperature to 375°F and continue baking for 45 minutes – 1 hour, or until top of pie crust is golden brown and apples are tender. Let the pie cool for 30-45 minutes before serving.
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F lowers
home | T I P S
&
T R I C K S
As Texans, we know first hand that Southern summers are no laughing matter. As the midday mercury rises, we tend to find relief indoors and away from the harsh sun. However, we aren’t the only ones feeling the heat. Indoor f lower arrangements tend to feel the stress of summer, as well. Here are a few indoor f lower hacks that will keep your f lowering friends feeling the love.
CUT THE STEMS OF YOUR FLOWERS AT A 45-DEGREE ANGLE,ONE INCH FROM THE BOTTOM. This instantly increases the surface area for water intake, so your f lowers will be well hydrated. CREATE A VODKA + TEASPOON OF SUGAR CONCOCTION TO KEEP YOUR FLOWERS LOOKING FLAWLESS LONGER. Adding several drops of vodka and a teaspoon of white sugar to the water in your vase will delay wilting. When the f lowers do begin to die, add a shot of straight vodka into the water and the stems will stand up straight again for a day or two. DROP A PENNY IN YOUR VASE TO KEEP YOUR FLOWER WATER FRESH LONGER. The copper in pennies works as an acidif ier, which helps prevent fungus or bacteria from growing. SIDE NOTE: Look for pennies minted before 1982, since they contain more copper and will keep your arrangement looking amazing a couple of days longer. AN ASPIRIN A DAY KEEPS THE WILTING AWAY. It’s a tried-and-true way to keep roses and other cut f lowers fresh longer: Put a crushed aspirin in the water before adding your f lowers. Also, changing the vase water every few days keep your stems healthy. WHEN ALL ELSE FAILS, TRY THE FRIDGE! We love to be cool and your f lowers do as well. If room allows, put your arrangement in the fridge while you sleep. It seems such a simple solution, but will help keep your f lowers fresh for almost a week.
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Photo credit - EDGAR AMARO 27 | T H E J O U R N E Y M AG A Z I N E
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h o m e | LE T ' S GE T F I T In the Fall of 2017 LIONHEART expanded, opening the doors to their boutique f itness studio, FIT30, and welcoming Fitness Instructors Miranda Meyer and Carmen Moreland to their family. FIT30 classes are not your average fitness class. • 30 minute classes designed to get you in peak physical condition, quickly. • Classes maintain an intimate size to ensure that student’s are provided with support and motivation. • Offered f ive days per week, students can expect a mix of HIIT (High Intensity Interval Training), circuit, cardio and weight training. • Nutritional support is provided, helping to build a lean body and tight core. • Student ages range from 20-60 and beyond, offering a home to anyone; whether a long-time f itness buff looking for the best in Luf kin, or someone just beginning their f itness journey and looking to keep up with their family’s active lifestyle. Instructors Stephanie Abbott and Tristin Mitchell will have you training like a fighter in LIONHEART’s Cardio Kickboxing classes. These classes are included in every membership. This heart pumping class will have you shedding pounds and sculpting your body without even knowing you’re working out!
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Full class schedules can be found on their website, on the MINDBODY app, or drop by their location, located on the West Loop in Lufkin for full details. A variety of additional services are offered: • Nutrition Support: Licensed Dietitians on staff to help you develop a nutritional plan to support you in attaining your fitness goals. • Personal Training Packages: o Certified Personal Trainers available to provide one-on-one training. o Private training packages provided with various Muay Thai and Krav Maga instructors. • Krav Maga: with a staff certified through the United States Krav Maga Association, this effective, modern and dynamic self-defense and fighting system is practical and intuitive • Lionheart Kids Programs: children as young as 4 can begin classes that focus on basic martial arts skills, discipline, age appropriate personal protection; building hand-eye coordination, balance, focus, and physical fitness. • Women’s Self-defense Seminars • Private Self-defense Parties/Events for Birthdays, Graduations, Women’s Groups, etc. FOR MORE INFORMATION CONTACT Angela Russell 936.225.0761, Miranda Meyer 936.414.4985 and Carmen Moreland 936.414.3350
JOURNEY READERS MENTION THIS STORY TO TRY YOUR INTRODUCTORY FIT30 CLASS FOR FREE.
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by a medical professional* in 30 minutes – or less. And, with a team of dedicated medical specialists, we can provide a lot more care, if you need it. The 30-Minutes-Or-Less E.R. Service Pledge – only at Woodland Heights Medical Center.
WoodlandHeights.net
PRESENTED BY -
2 0 Q U E S T ION S | S P O T LIGH T | W I S D OM F ROM T H E WO R D | L O C A L TA L E N T *Medical professionals may include physicians, physician assistants and nurse practitioners. Woodland Heights Medical Center is directly or indirectly owned by a partnership that proudly includes physician owners, including certain members of the hospital’s medical staff.
a l o ving | C O M M U N I T Y 96873_WHMC_ERpldg_8_375x10_875c.indd 1
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Photo credit - Suzy Childers
SHIP (SHELTER THE HOMELESS INTERNATIONAL PROJECTS) IS A NON-PROFIT 501 (C)(3) ORGANIZATION THAT IS COMMITTED TO PROVIDING CLEAN, SAFE DWELLINGS AND OFFERING FOOD, HUMANITARIAN AID, AND EDUCATIONAL OPPORTUNITIES TO CHILDREN AND FAMILIES IN AN IMPOVERISHED NEIGHBORHOOD IN EL SALVADOR.
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co m mu ni ty | 20 QUESTIONS
twenty questions -WITH-
R AY A N N BA K E R Vice President at Texas State Bank in Lufkin
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1
WHAT SONG ALWAYS MAKES YOU HAPPY WHEN YOU HEAR IT?
Betty Crocker
or Duncan Hines?
Duncan Hines
3 HAPPY BIRTHDAY What is your nickname from your husband?
7
Now Kim, we both know you cannot print that in your magazine!!!
WHO
IS YOUR CELEBRITY CRUSH?
GEORGE STRAIT
15
What is something you say that people would consider "your saying"?
HELLO GORGEOUS!!!
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If you could be any animal in the world, what would you be?
A bird because I love to listen to them sing!!!
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4
DEFINITELY SUNSET
Your purse is on fire and you can only save one thing. What would it be?
GET MY LIPSTICK!
12
What would you tell your 18 year-old self?
GET A COLLEGE EDUCATION, WORK HARD AND DREAM BIG!!!
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WHAT
IS YOUR GO-TO CHICK FLICK?
STEEL MAGNOLIAS
If you had to describe yourself in one word, what would it be?
OUTGOING
What is your motto in life?
What is your favorite midnight snack?
Midnight snack... Girl, I am asleep at midnight!!!
6
SUNRISE or SUNSET?
"IF I CAN GET MY DRESS ON, MY WEIGHT IS UNDER CONTROL." DOLLY PARTON
9
What was the last thing you bought online?
SHOES!
13
If you could have dinner with three people (dead or alive), who would it be?
GOD, MY MOM AND MY AUNT MARY.
17
What was the last gift you gave someone?
A BAG OF GOODIES FOR MY 5 YEAR OLDS MOVING UP IN SUNDAY SCHOOL
Favorite words of wisdom? "IF YOUR ACTIONS CREATE A LEGACY THAT INSPIRES OTHERS TO DREAM MORE, LEARN MORE, DO MORE AND BECOME MORE, THEN, YOU ARE AN EXCELLENT LEADER." DOLLY PARTON
I F YO U W E R E D O L L Y PA RTO N F O R A DA Y, W H AT WO U L D YO U D O ?
BE SURE IT WAS A DAY WOMEN'S NETWORKING HAD A LUNCHEON SO I COULD GO AND MEET RAY ANN BAKER. I HEAR SHE QUOTES ME A LOT!!!
14
If you could hire an actress to play you in a movie, who would it be?
ABSOLUTELY DOLLY PARTON! I give you a warthog as a gift. What do you name it?
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It would depend on if it was a boy or girl warthog? A boy: Pumbaa A girl: Peaches
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c o m m u n i ty | S P O T LIGH T
Melissa
This month we welcome back an old friend to The Journey magazine, Melissa Radke. For several years Melissa delighted our readers with her monthly column entitled Stretch Marks. In Stretch Marks Melissa would bemoan the trials of parenting, relationships, budgeting, parenting, makeup, swimwear, and did we mention - parenting? But in 2015 everything in Melissa’s world would be turned upside down after she returned home from a night of Mexican food with her best friend (we’ll let her explain.) Before you could say “internet sensation” Stretch Marks had to take a back seat when she could no longer keep up with her schedule (her words!) or our deadlines (our words!) Always a friend to The Journey – and one of our biggest cheerleaders – we were able to sit down with Melissa and catch up on what she has been doing and why this month she will watch one of her dreams come true.
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Well, do you miss Stretch Marks as much as we do? Hmmm…Do y’all miss me turning in my articles written on a napkin from Chick-f il-a a week late because I forgot it was due? I didn’t think so.
So, let ’s start from the beginning. What happened in October of 2015? It was a Monday night and I was meeting my bff at Los Jarritos for some queso. These three guys walked in all wearing camo and I remember saying to her, “Dang. It’s Red Ribbon week this week and I need to go buy some camo and tye dye for my kids to wear.” And she said, “Now there’s a funny video!” So I took her suggestion. I went home, hopped up on my counter top and made a video about Red Ribbon week. We uploaded it onto Facebook the next morning and I went to work. By that night I had over one million views. The next morning? Two million. We knew lightening had struck. I can assure you, if I had known 100 million people would end up watching it, I would’ve worn a bra! That video completely changed the trajectory of my life. I even held meetings with the Red Ribbon Organization on how they could improve this week for our local school systems. Nice people!
When you say it has “changed your life…” When I posted that video I had a public Facebook page with 3,000 followers. Today I have a social media following of over 325,000. My videos have been on Today.com, Usweekly,com, written about in the Dallas Morning News and the Sydney Herald, even North Korea Times – yeah, you heard that right. It’s been nuts! With a social platform of that size, though, it isn’t relegated to just silly videos. I have been able to travel and speak to people across the country, which is what I studied my whole life to do! I have always loved public speaking and had hoped to make a career out of it; speaking and singing were always my heart.
Was writing? Writing was my dream. In other words, I hoped one day to do it, but I never dreamed anyone would actually PAY me to do it! Or PAY to read it. I was in a Sunday School class one time and the icebreaker question was, “Where do you see yourself in 10 years?” and I said that my dream would be having a book signing in a Barnes & Noble with a line wrapped around the store. This month I will go on a 10 city book tour, several of which are in a Barnes & Noble. That Sunday School class was ten years ago this August! Can you believe that?
So from that lit tle Red Ribbon Week video came a book? In a way, yes. Because of the popularity of the RR video I started putting out more videos and one of them, entitled Eat Cake. Be Brave, which has been seen almost 2 million times, made its way to the desk of an editor at the 2nd largest book publisher in the world. They called me for a meeting and I f lew to New York and met with them. This month, Eat Cake. Be Brave, will be released on July 17. It is a big fat check mark on my bucket list!
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c o m m u n i ty | S P O T LIGH T
What is the book about? I like to say that the book is about how all the years of my life led up to the one that changed it. But people always look at me like, whatareyoutalkingabout? So, I’ll just tell you that it’s the story of how a small-town Luf kin girl grew up hearing “no” a whole lot. And she believed it. Until she didn’t. And when she decided that no one got to decide for her, when she decided that God created her to be more than what man had told her she would be, when she decided that weight wouldn’t def ine her and loss wouldn’t break her and rejection wouldn’t end her, her life changed forever. And it’s how yours can, too!
Wow! Your life has done a 180. Do you give all the credit to that lit tle video? No. I give all the credit to a big God. I decided when I was nine years old that I would spend the rest of my life living and serving God in whatever capacity He asked. I spent 25 years of my life working, singing, speaking, writing, trusting, praying and paying my dues. None of this is a f luke. The video wasn’t “lightening in a bottle” it was God using something as crazy as a viral video to set my course. And I was ready!
Anything else crazy going on with you that you’d like us to know about? I don’t think so.
So even if there are rumors and whispers of some sort of reality show coming to town… I would plead the f ifth if I knew what that meant! I will just say that life in my house is very loud and unpredictable and funny and I’ve thought I needed a show for years! FINALLY SOMEONE IN AMERICA IS LISTENING TO ME! I would love for it to be true, and I would love for it to star my family and my town. I love both, very much.
You are a Lufkin girl. Dyed in the wool! And proud of it.
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So no moving to bigger cities or greener pastures? Uhhhhh, no. I was standing beside two women the other day who spoke negatively about this town and I prayed God would help me not punch them in the nose! This town has always been kind to me. It has loved me well. I love walking in to Ray’s and knowing 90% of everyone in there. I love knowing if my kids are bad there are 1,000 mommas who will text me about it. I can assure you that if a reality show ever happens in my life these things you can count on: My mother will be the break-out star, Luf kin will be represented well or I won’t do it, and I will never be seen in a bathing suit. I give you my word, America!
IF YOU WOULD LIKE TO ORDER A COPY OF EAT CAKE. BE BRAVE. VISIT YOUR FAVORITE ONLINE RETAILER OR ABSOLUTE FICTION IN LUFKIN. TO LEARN MORE ABOUT MELISSA CHECK OUT WWW.MELISSARADKE.COM, WWW. EATCAKEBEBRAVE.COM OR LISTEN TO HER WEEKLY ON HER HILARIOUS PODCAST ENTITLED - WWW.ORDINARYPEOPLEORDINARYTHINGS.COM MELISSA ALSO INVITES YOU TO COME OUT, BUY A COPY OF THE BOOK, HAVE HER SIGN IT AND HUG HER NECK AT HER LUFKIN BOOK RELEASE PARTY AT RESTORATION WINE BAR ON MONDAY, JULY 23RD. SHE SUGGESTS YOU BRING YOUR FRIENDS, ORDER THE BLUE CHIPS AND STAY TO SAY HELLO. SHE WOULD LOVE TO MEET YOU!
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TALKING YOURSELF OUT OF
SPIRITUAL DEPRESSION: The path from depressed to deep rest.
PSALM 42-43 Written by - AARON WILSON
Have you ever been depressed - so down that you’ve
QUESTIONS TO DI AGNOSE SPIRIT UAL
spent days and nights in non-stop cr y ing? Have
DEPRESSION
you been so laid low that you cannot get back up?
Do you ever feel that your soul has been
Have you ever been knocked down by life, barely gotten back on your feet only to be knocked right back down again, wave after wave of trouble? Be encouraged - you are in good company! I’m not at all mak ing light of your trials, but these are the exact same experiences the psalmist had. A nd instead of collapsing in sorrow, he counseled his soul. In Psalms 42 and 43, we’ll learn from him how to both diagnose and deal with spiritual depression. Psalms 42 and 43 most likely were written as one psalm. Both together really read much like a song. You see 3 stanzas (v v. 42:1- 4; 6 -10; 43:1- 4) with a repeating chorus (v v. 42:5, 11; and 43:5). The stanzas build upon one another, but the chorus remains steady. But notice - the verses express the symptoms of the problems. A nd the chorus is the solution to the problems. The chorus is the cure for the discouragement, depression, distance, and defeat the psalmist is feeling. We’re going to look at the three stanzas f irst, and then conclude by examining the chorus.
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deser ted? The psalmist beg ins with an honest admission of feeling absent from God: he thirsts, he weeps, he eats his tears, he pours out his soul, and he remembers. The barrage of words shows the intensit y of the soul. We can all easily picture a deer panting, with tong ue wagg ing, after a drink of water. This is what our soul needs. A nd it’s a leg itimate need. His thirst isn’t merely for more… it’s for anything… he’s parched! He has now lost all appetite for food. The only food he had to eat was his own tears. Have you ever been so discouraged
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you don’t want to eat? To make it even worse, his
is too wise to be mistaken. A nd when we cannot
enemies mock and add insult to injur y, ask ing,
trace His hand, we must trust His heart.” Notice, despite all the hurt, the psalmist still
“W here is your God?”
addresses God as his “rock.” This is a precious
He then remembers former worship. You see,
example of frustration ask ing in faith, and
look ing back can be helpful, only if it drives you
confusion ask ing with conf idence. We should
for ward, only if you remember that because this
always have this song of steadfast love play ing in
is how it once was, this is what it again can be.
our hearts, even though it may play in a minor key.
He is remembering the festive joy of worshiping with other believers - something we often take for
Does your soul feel like it is defenseless?
granted!
Mov ing into Psalm 43, we see the last description as one of defenselessness, so the psalmist asks for
Beloved, we’re not to reminisce in vain of our past
justice. A nd he mourns (an echo from 42:9). But
glor y days, but instead remember by faith his glor y
he’s not without direction. His request for light and
displayed in our lives through his tender care over
truth (v v. 3 - 4) remove any doubt of the darkness
the years. He will never leave you or forsake you
and deceit he was experiencing. W hen people walk
( Hebrews 13:5).
in darkness, they need light. W hen people walk in deceit, they need truth. A nd then – only then – do
Do you ever feel like your soul is d rowning?
we come to the holy hill. Perhaps this holy hill is
The psalmist clearly admits to being cast down.
a long ing for heaven, but if not, it’s a desire for
His version of the great hymn is, “It is not well
the closest thing – worship in God’s temple with
with my soul!” He’s hurting. I hope you see that
God’s people. I hope you see the value in cor porate
there is no false piet y here. The psalmist (and the
worship - even when you don’t feel like getting out
psalms) never tr y to paint a Pollyanna picture of
of bed.
life. They’re not patting us on the back say ing, “Aw, it’s ok.” No, they’re putting their arm around us and say ing, “It’s not ok. But it will be.” The imager y then moves from desertion to drowning. Just like the relentless waves on a beach, his troubles overtake him repeatedly. He gets back up, only to be knocked down again.
DIRECTIONS FOR DEALING WITH SPIRIT UAL DEPRESSION Self-Diag nostic Questions We beg in dealing with spiritual depression by ask ing self-diagnostic questions. So far, we’ve seen the psalmist speak to his audience and directly to God. But here in this repeated chorus the psalmist
Is God still here?
is talk ing to someone else. W ho? He is talk ing to
Is he still involved? Absolutely! In fact, he may even be sending the waves ( Jonah 2:3; cf. 119:75)! Charles Spurgeon reminds us, “God is too good to be unk ind and He
himself – his own soul! This self-talk is crucial to the cure of being downcast and discouraged. He beg ins by ask ing himself two diagnostic questions:
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c o m m u n i t y | W I S D OM F ROM T H E WO R D
The 1st question: Soul, why a re you cast
If you were to put a stethoscope up to the soul of
down?
the cast down, this is what you would hear. Oh, one
To be cast down is to be brought low, to melt
might look calm on the outside, but there is chaos
away, to have the arrogance knocked out of you.
on the inside. It is not well with their soul. Does
The phrase is used of sheep when they’ve toppled
your soul sound like this, my friend?
over onto their backs and cannot right themselves without help ( like a turtle turned over on its shell).
SELF-DIRECTED COUNSEL
It happens when a sheep lies down for rest on its side. W hen grav it y shifts, and the feet no longer
The next direction we go to get out of our spiritual
touch the ground, panic beg ins. The internal gasses
slump is to g ive ourselves counsel. We can
build up and blood f low backs up. Even the fattest
summarize this counsel in a word: hope. Bible hope
and healthiest sheep were at risk. If the sheep isn’t
is not the same as the way we often use hope. Bible
helped onto his feet soon, he will die. Therefore,
hope is not a wish. “I hope I get that promotion!”
it’s so important for a shepherd to always look over
or “I hope I win the door prize!” Human hope says,
his f lock. If one goes missing, the shepherd must go
“Maybe I will, maybe I won’t... f ingers crossed!”
searching ( Luke 15:4).
Bible hope is quite the opposite – it is a conf ident expectation. Hope is waiting for God to act and
The parallels to the Christian life are easy to see.
knowing that he will. Bible hope says, “You are
W hether we’re weak and wandering away from our
my God,” in anticipation of the fulf illment of the
Shepherd or full, fat and feasting reg ularly on his
promises even when help is far of f.
word, when prov idence knocks us on our back, we need restoring ( Psalm 23:3).
Hope also doesn’t always g ive us all the answers we may want. It doesn’t explain all the questions, like,
The 2nd question: Soul, why a re you in
“W hy God?” and “W here are you, God?” W hat
tur moil within me?
hope does, however, is point us to a Person.
If being “cast down” is the f ig urative way to
The psalmist’s hope is in God, particularly His
describe the position of the soul, being in “turmoil”
work of salvation. W hy? Because it puts things in
is the way to describe the disposition of the soul.
perspective. God can deliver from any suf fering.
In other words, think of “cast down” as what the
Yet the greatest deliverance from the deepest
soul looks like. “Turmoil” then, is what the soul
suf fering cannot compare to the deepest deliverance
sounds like. It is a strong word emphasizing unrest,
from the greatest sins. So, how do I hope in God
commotion, strong feeling, or noise. It’s even used
amid suf fering? I remember how God has saved
to describe agonizing moaning.
me from my greatest suf fering: my own sin and rebellion against him. Oh, beloved soul, put your hope in God!
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Aaron Wilson is the Pastor of Administration and Families at Keltys First Baptist Church in Luf kin, Texas. He has served in various ministries from children to adults for over 20 years. He also served for seven years with the national radio broadcast of Revive Our Hearts (Nancy Demoss Woglemuth). Aaron received his BS in Bible from Central Baptist College and is currently pursuing his Mdiv at the BMA Theological Seminary in Jacksonville, Texas. Aaron and his wife, Anita, have four children and enjoy reading, photography, collecting vintage games & toys, being outdoors, and cheering for the Arkansas Razorbacks.
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dancing stars with the
2018
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t
he American Cancer Society in Lufkin had the pleasure of hosting
Dancing with the Stars East Texas on Friday, May 11th at the Pitser Garrison Convention Center in Lufkin. This was a one-of-a-kind evening, featuring great food, spectacular entertainment, dancing, and so much more. Spectators were encouraged to spin, tango, or waltz their way into an elegant evening of community support benefiting the American Cancer Society, specifically Relay for Life of Angelina County. Esteemed members of Angelina County took part in this charity event to showcase their dance moves. Local Stars and Dancers partnered together to create unique and entertaining performances. All costumes and performances were original, designed and choreographed by the couples who participated. There is no denying that Angelina County has a tremendous amount of talent. Special thanks to all the couples who truly made this event extraordinary: Amanda Skinner & Jason Skinner, Hilary Walker & Curtis Murphy, Robbie Kuykendall & John Mark Lowery, Stephanie Abbott & Mike Love, Justin Walker & Kim Ogden, Rudy Flores & Dr. Latonya Goffney, Jake Mumm & Andrea Self, Ashleigh Williams Benton & Wheel Crawford, Casey Adams & Casey Oates Adams. Ashleigh and Wheel walked away with this year’s glimmer ball trophy. The winning number combined gymnastics, theatrics, and traditional country dancing with a modern flair. Wheel and Ashleigh are both Lufkin natives. Ashleigh is the owner of Tall Timbers Gymnastics and Wheel is a retired Postmaster. We were especially honored to have Wheel participate this year because in 2004 he was diagnosed with cancer. Because of early detection, he is cancer free and proud to be a cancer SURVIVOR. While this event was incredibly entertaining, it also was an excellent opportunity to let our community know about the American Cancer Society and the mission behind the organization. Cancer survivors were recognized, the importance of research was emphasized, and the community was introduced to one of our newest, most exciting resources Hope Lodge. People from all walks of life were in attendance and enjoyed the performances and atmosphere while giving back to an excellent cause. We are pleased to announce we have successfully raised over $60,000 and donations continue to come. The community embraced this endeavor and made it a huge success. It is very thrilling, yet humbling to be part of such a giving community that sees the need and the value of cancer research and springs into action. Dancing with the Stars East Texas successfully brought awareness and support to the mission of the American Cancer Society. We would like to thank everyone who was involved in this event. So many individuals, businesses, schools, and organizations gave selflessly of their
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f a m i ly | L O C A L
T A L E N T
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time, money, and other resources to make this event one to remember. Having such a gracious community makes events like this possible and memorable. Thanks to the support of communities like ours, the American Cancer Society saves lives by helping people stay well and get well, by finding cures, and by fighting back against cancer. The American Cancer Society is working to finish the fight against every cancer in every community. We are the largest private, not-for-profit funder of cancer research in the United States, investing more than $4 billion since 1946. Thanks in part to our contributions, more than 1.5 million lives have been saved in the US in the past two decades. We are anxiously awaiting Dancing with the East Texas Stars 2019. Mark your calendars, as this event is currently scheduled to take place Friday, May 10, 2019. Continue to follow our Facebook page and website for more information on ticket sales, couples, and more. (Relay For Life of Angelina County and our www. dancingwiththestarseasttexas.org) We hope to see you there!
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h o m e | L O CA L TA L E N T
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G A N D Y N O T E S | K I D S ' C O R N E R | E V E RY T H I N G E L S E | C O A C H A S H L E Y
tim e | F A M I L Y
ARTWORK BY SUZY LOU CHILDERS
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S
Written by - ANGELA GANDY
7:15 A M - Ma x x’s a larm clock goes of f ( Wish I could sleep that late on a work day) 7:20 - 7:45 A M - Ma x x gets dressed and leaves for work 7:50 A M - I f ina l ly doze back of f to sleep 8:20 A M - The boys wake up 8:21 A M - “Mom ma, we're hungr y. Make us breakfast.” 8:30 A M - “How much longer unt il you get up, Mom ma?” (If I could sleep for more than 20 m inute inter va ls, I would a lready be up) 8:40 -9:00 A M - Shower, Cof fee, Breakfast 9:10 A M - “W hat are we going to do today, Mom ma?” 9:15 -11:15 A M - SURV I VA L MODE (Including “No, you can't eat another snack,” and “No, no more YouTube Videos,” and the infamous “Stop annoying your brother!”) 11:20 -11:50 A M - Lunch (Ha l leluyer - the kids act like I've star ved them a l l morning) 11:55 A M - Is it too early for w ine? 12:00 -2:00 PM - SURV I VA L MODE (Repeat same act iv it ies from earlier that morning, on ly w ith a litt le more frustrat ion in my voice) 2:05 - 4:00 PM - Nap/Mov ie Time (For Reed and Mom ma. Brex x is like his Daddy...somehow he doesn't need as much sleep as we do) 4:05 PM - “W hen's Daddy com ing home?” 4:20 PM - “W hat's for dinner?” 4:45 PM - “Can we watch YouTube on your phone?” 5:00 PM - “Boys! Help me clean up the house!” (Never m ind the fact that we've had a l l day for this) 5:15 PM - Finish line! Ma x x, tag...you're it.
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A typical summer day in our life looks like this. Please tell me I'm not the only one who is sea rching for something to f ill my children's days. While we a re all for jet-setting on a vacation, that's not feasible for ever y day this summer. There will be days that we have nothing to do - no plans, no vacations, no play dates. For these days, I have sought out activities we can do together and cleverly named them my “Summer Sanity Savers”.
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GO TO THE LIBRARY Did y'a l l know a librar y card at Kurth Memoria l Librar y is free if you live in A ngelina Count y? Have I been liv ing under a rock?! I just learned this. I w ill tota l ly go let them play games, check out books, and have stor y t ime! A nd I can even check out some books for me … to you know, read in my “spare t ime” that I have so much of.
GO TO THE MOVIES A nother fun “Did you know” quest ion - Did you know that ever y Tuesday at the Cinemark Theater in Luf kin, you can watch a kid-friendly PG Mov ie for J UST $1 per t icket? It's true. I just looked up the schedule on their website (Hey, Cinemark. I'l l send you an invoice for the advert ising I just gave you). Mov ies include Boss Baby, The Lego Ninjago Mov ie, My L itt le Pony, and The Emoji Mov ie.
GO TO THE ZOO I'm sure I don't have any shocking news about the zoo that you don't a lready know, but I mean, come on. W hy wouldn't you go to The El len Trout Zoo? For less than $40 bucks, you can see the anima ls, ride the Z&OO Railroad, play on the playground, and maybe even get a litt le treat from the g ift shop. That's a ful l day's worth of fun there!
GO TO SPLASH KINGDOM WATERPARK I litera l ly just had a conversat ion w ith Ma x x the other night on whether we should just get season passes. We may or may not live there this sum mer. How cool is it that we have a waterpark just 20 m inutes away? I mean, I like Schlitterbahn and a l l, but I a lso like a short hop and skip over the river to Splash K ingdom.
GO TO THE KITCHEN TABLE A fter you've exhausted a l l your money and t ime, you need to a l l sit around together at the kitchen table. For us, we don't do this enough and when we do, it's so precious. I have big goa ls of complet ing organizat iona l projects at the table w ith my boys; I need to sort out a l l their art work, pictures, and cert if icates throughout the year. I a lso plan to cont inue reading and writ ing w ith them throughout the sum mer - something I hope their teachers w il l appreciate. A nd f ina l ly, per Ma x x's request, I w il l cook dinner and have it ready when he gets home (a lthough ever yone knows he's rea l ly a better cook).
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I didn't know about the $1 movie promotion for kids at Cinemark! I will def initely be participating in this!
Angela is a multi-tasking wife and mother of two boys who keep her on her toes. She loves a good story and enjoys writing. You can contact her at angelagandy@gmail.com.
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- FEATU RI NG -
COOL CATS There are so many fabulous kids doing amazing things! Do you know a Cool Cat who needs to be recognized? Email the details to kogden@lufkinjourneymagazine.com and you just might see them featured here.
LET'SLOL
WORD FI N D AN D MORE !
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U M M
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RED FL AG WHITE SUMMER
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F IREWORKS PARADE BLUE HOT
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Tristan Jason Minguez has been spelling since he was in 2nd grade. He loves studying the root words, origins, and history behind the words. After winning the homeschool spelling bee in our area this year, he was invited to be a participant at the prestigious Scripps National Spelling bee in our nation's captial. There were 516 spellers from all over the country; he was 1 of 29 homeschoolers. He placed 42nd overall! Congratulations, Tristan! He will be coaching the homeschool spelling team next year; we can't wait to see what the future holds for Tristan.
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FRUIT POPS
1 cup of your favorite flavor of yogurt ½ cup of fresh fruit 1 squirt of honey Put all the ingredients into the blender. Blend until smooth. Pour the mixture into a popsicle mold or into small 5 oz. paper cups. If you’re using paper cups, cover each cup with foil and push a wooden craft stick through the center down into the mixture. Freeze for at least 5 hours.
LET'S
LOL!
W H AT D O YO U C A L L A M A G IC O W L?
3.
2.
L L A’S ? T G E TS A A H T K C U A D YO U C A L L W H AT D O
WHAT DO YOU CALL A DROID THAT TAKES THE LONG WAY AROUND?
2 . A WISE QUACKER 3. R2 DETOUR JOURNEY_July2018.indd 58
ANS WER S - 1. HOO DINI
1.
W H A TA HOOT!
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se t o N - D r.' s A F E T Y T I P S
W AT E R
ys e , alwa yo u a r ld o ow atter h ent. 1. N o itmh an adult pres w fir st. swim r feet e wate h t r e t ays en ys 2 . Alw e , alwa the lak ’re a stro ng t a e ’r if yo u n yo u 3. Whliefe jacket, even a we ar er. floats swim m le s an d ide d o o n l ro v po o do n’t p ee d e mber, 4. Relimfe jackets. Theyyou up if you n ld o ’t h are n t to su ppor e n o ug h n if e r ! E ve e it. swim m tic g c n a o r r ays p e a st can alw rn to b a u e o L y , 5. sso n s had le yo u’ve etter. b e m co a n d be
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FUN IN THE WATER SPRINKLER: Gather your friends and make a circle around the water sprinkler. Turn it on and play duck, duck, goose. Turn on the water sprinkler and play frisbee back and forth across the water.
Give everyone a cup of the same size. Turn on the water sprinkler and see who can fill up their cup first without touching the sprinkler.
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Two good friends WRIT TEN BY
KRIS BALL
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I
recently had the pleasure of attending a couple of
I was fortunate enough to go to baseball camp twice
graduation ceremonies. That’s just one more thing to
when it came to town, between the ages of 8 -10.
enjoy about this time of year. They had a senior day
must remember, there was no social media or internet
at our church which was very moving, young men and
when I was a kid, so any camp around the small town
women starting new adventures out in the world. There
of 13,000 people had to be advertised in the paper or
were a couple that had joined the United States Armed
by word of mouth. I remember that there was an ad
forces, several that were going to various universities
in the paper that my mother cut out for me. It was an
around the country, and even a couple that were staying
ad for a traveling baseball camp that came around by
here local. No matter what they had decided to do, it
the name of Doyle Baseball Camp. It was made up
was cool watching their families and friends pray over
of two or three brothers that had played major league
them and encourage them. They were showing baby
baseball, along with a local ex major leaguer named
pictures of each of the seniors on the monitors, and all
Ernie McAnally. Blake Doyle was the head coach at
I could think about was how fast that probably went by
the camp. His brothers, Denny and Brian, were there
for those parents. I realize how fast it’s going by for
to help and coach with him. All of them had some
me…it’s f lying by!
success in the majors, and Blake went on to be the
You
My wife and I were blessed with attending a kindergarten
hitting coach for the Rockies from 2013-2016.
graduation and a pre-k promotion.
They were both
These four men that were at the camp as instructors were
wonderful ceremonies at two of the best schools in the
seasoned veterans of baseball and the fundamentals of
state of Texas. Brett’s ceremony at Dunbar was on a
the game. These men were coaches. The camp lasted
Thursday morning, and his summer off icially started
two and a half days and consisted of f ielding and hitting
as soon as he got that kindergarten diploma. Luke is
drills. Then half a day was devoted to pitching for the
four, and his summer never stops. He’s on permanent
kids that wanted to be pitchers. I don’t remember too
spring break. My wife works at the preschool that Luke
much about the drills or the exercises that we did while
attends, so he will just continue to go to school with
the camp was happening. The memory that sticks with
his mother throughout the summer. Brett, on the other
me vividly was the talk that Blake Doyle had with us
hand, has an action packed, adventure laced summer
right before we were dismissed.
to never forget.
The camp let out at noon on the third day, so Blake
A month back, Leslie and I began to discuss what camps
called us all to the bleachers to take a seat right before
we thought Brett would enjoy this summer as several
our parents started showing up. I remember sitting in
are newly available to him since turning six. There was
the bleachers surrounded by friends, probably 50-75
Zoo Camp, Vacation Bible School, and then a baseball
kids, and Mr. Doyle standing on the ground walking
camp…wait, what?
in front of us. I remember him telling us that baseball
Baseball camp???
That’s right
friends; he’s old enough for baseball camp.
had nothing to do with the score and that it never does.
Camps of any kind during the summer are exciting,
He told us that baseball had to with integrity, honesty,
but baseball camp brings one certain story to my
and building friendships that last long after the f inal
mind. I grew up in Mt. Pleasant, Texas in the 80’s
pitch is thrown. He looked at us in the bleachers and
and 90’s, and baseball camp wasn’t something that
said, “You boys are all friends here, correct?” Most of
was always available or affordable for us growing up.
us smiled and nodded, some giggled. He said, “Raise
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f a m i ly | E V E R Y T H I N G
E L S E . . .
your hand if you have more than 10 real good friends.” Of course, we all raised our hands. He said, “Man, look at you boys. How many of those friends would do anything in the world for you? How many of those friends would tell you that they loved you? Now, how many of those are related to you?” Heads turned and we giggled, mostly missing the point he was making. He went on to say that if we have f ive friends, true friends that we would do anything for, and they would do anything for us, that we should consider ourselves fortunate. Someone asked, “How many friends you got coach?” Very quickly he snapped, “Two. I have two friends that I would give the world for. I have many acquaintances, but I have two friends.” That’s stuck with me for almost 30 years. I realized that Blake Doyle was more than just a seasoned baseball coach. He was a seasoned man, a mentor for little boys and young men all over the country. He was teaching more than baseball for two and a half days. He was teaching life lessons. His statement rings true in my mind today. I have lots of acquaintances. There are tons of people that we see in public that we shake hands with, people at church that we are friendly with, people on social media that we call friends. But how many of them would let you move in with them if your family fell on hard times? How many of them would drive you to your doctor’s appointments in Houston on a Monday? How many would raise your children if tragedy fell upon your family? I have two. Two people that I’m not blood related to, that without a shadow of a doubt, would raise my two boys just like they were their own if something happened to me and Leslie. Two men that would gladly take my family into their homes if we could no longer afford ours. Two men with whom I openly talk about feelings, family, and God. They know my secrets, they know my hardships, and they love me because of them, not despite them. I don’t have to talk to these people every day, or even weekly. The seasons of our lives are different. We are interested in different things, our families are at different stages, but our relationship is always exactly where I think it is. Every time we can really visit, I learn that God is working in their lives as well as mine, sometimes in the exact same way. “Friend” is a word that is thrown around loosely and is
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often associated with a certain status. Being popular and well liked is way too important in our lives, especially our children. I wish I could have understood what Coach Doyle was saying that day when I was a little boy, but I’m glad I understand it now. I’m glad to have friends that I can count on, and they can count on me. My family can count on me now. All that is the by-product of the ultimate friendship that has developed in my life.
My friendship with the
Father, the Creator of the Universe. John 15: 13-16 “You are my friends if you do what I command. I no longer call you servants, because a servant does not know his master’s business. Instead, I have called you friends, for everything that I learned from my Father I have made known to you. You did not choose me, but I chose you and appointed you so that you might go and bear fruit—fruit that will last—and so that whatever you ask in my name the Father will give you.” Friendships, even the best ones, they come and go. Our relationship with the Father last for all of eternity. I wonder if Coach Doyle meant to teach me that 28 years ago?
Kris Ball grew up in Mt. Pleasant, Texas but has called Luf kin his home for the past 20 years. He is a graduate of Stephen F. Austin State University. He brief ly toured as the Ringmaster for the Ringling Brothers Barnum & Bailey circus. He was disbarred from the circus community after supporting the efforts to continue with live elephant performances. Kris has been married to his lovely wife, Leslie for 12 years. They have two boys, Brett who is 6 and Luke who is 4. In his spare time, he enjoys farming, hunting and coaching t-ball.
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SELF
LOVE O
nce. Twice. Three times a lady. In the third year of Enough:
A Self Love Campaign, women that are beautiful both inside and out prove that the outside world should never dull the sparkle that resides within you. It all started over some girl talk. About 3 1 /2 years ago my friend, Sue Ann, and I were chit chatting about how many labels we as women have…normally more negatives than positives. At her persistence I finally agreed 6 months later to go on an adventure of finding 10 women who would write on a poster board something that someone had labeled them with and then something they knew for sure about themselves and photograph them to share via Facebook. (All photographs would be Photoshop free…figured if we are going to let these women be so raw, might as well be raw in every form.) In theory, this seemed simple enough. I quickly realized that women could so easily write the negative. When it came to a positive, the pens started tapping, the palms started sweating, the nervous giggles came out, the stares off into the abyss…it always took them longer for the positives. I also quickly learned that 10 women would turn into 11, 12, 13…and before I knew it, 17 women. Each sharing their story in hopes that other women would see their realness and know they weren’t the only ones who felt life had kicked them down. So I photographed the inaugural group, posted them to Facebook and within 24 hours I had hundreds of emails, comments, messages, texts all saying the same thing…they saw themselves in each of these women. This is when I knew this was going to be so much more than just a few ladies and some poster boards. So I started a list of women for the next year’s campaign and photographed 37 women last year. I continued this year and photographed even more than the 2 previous years, and I know as the years go by this will grow…because if you didn’t know, we make plans and God laughs…like big ol’ belly chuckle laughs…a lot. This lil’ project was not meant to be one and done. He has showed up in each and everyone of these women’s posters, their facial expressions, the light in their eyes when they show me their positive. He has come through and flipped the switch on so many…It’s as if when they flip the poster over to the positive and their eyes go from dull to gleaming, God says, “LET THERE BE LIGHT!” So I decided from that point on I would pair this campaign with some sort of community fundraiser. This year’s charity of choice is The Pregnancy Help Center and the event paired with this is the Be Yourself! Free Yourself! A night of ladies learning how to love who you are, because of who you are. This will be Friday, July 27th @ 7:30PM at The Silo in Luf kin. From the speakers, food, musical performances, to the fashion show, everyone involved has been a part of the self love
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campaign in some way! Speakers include: Annette Lee, Ashley Berry, Sonia Bonner and Jennifer Miranda. Tomé will provide dinner and we will have raffles from various local businesses, musical performances and a fashion show. Tickets are $45 a piece for this ladies night out. My mission with this event is to not just raise money for The Pregnancy Help Center (which is a bonus to this event), but to act as a night of empowerment for women from all walks of life, to let them know that light can shine after the darkness. You aren’t what the world says, you aren’t your experiences, your setbacks, your mistakes… you are enough. In a world where we are constantly being saturated with negativity, I want to be part of the flooding social media and our community with real women, real life issues and real life value. I want these women to see their value. I feel so honored to share each of their stories.
SHE IS MORE PRECIOUS THAN RUBIES; NOTHING YOU DESIRE CAN COMPARE WITH HER.
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P L A C E S & FA C E S
| R E A D E R S HOWC A S E | C H A L L E N GE | YO U R JO U R N E Y
re a d e r | S H O W C A S E
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PLACES
&
FACES L H S A LU M N I , H E A R T I N S T I T U T E O F E A S T T E X A S , LU F K I N L I T T L E L E A G U E A L L - S T A R S T O U R N A M E N T & N E C H E S R I V E R R E N D E Z VO U S
( P L A C E S & FA C E S P H O T O S P R O V I D E D B Y L I S A C R O W )
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p l a c e s & f a c e s | L H S A LU M N I
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O n May 8 t h , t h e Lu f k i n Hi g h Sc h o o l A l u m n i A s s o c i a t i o n a w a r d e d 1 4 1 s c h o l a r s h ip s t o t a l i n g $ 1 4 1 , 0 0 0 t o t h e L H S c l a s s o f 2 0 1 8 . T h i s s e t a n e w r e c o r d f o r s c h o l a r s h ip s a w a r d e d . O v e r t h e p a s t 3 3 y e a rs , t h e L HS A l u m n i A s s o c i a t i o n h a s a w a r d e d 2 , 3 1 2 s c h o l a r s h ip s t o s e n i o r s a n d g r a d u a t e s o f L u f k i n H i g h Sch o o l w i th a m o n e t a ry v a lu e of $ 2 , 2 6 7 , 865 .
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p l a c e s & f a c e s | L H S A LU M N I
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p l a c e s & f a c e s | L H S A LU M N I
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p l a ces & fa ces | H E A RT I N S T I T U T E OF E A S T T E X A S
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The Heart Institute of East Texas received a grant from Boston Scientific that enabled them to provide education regarding risk factors and prevention of cardiovascular diseases. There were over 375 people that attended with 48 vendors. Dr. Bachireddy said “This health fair is a perfect example how all health care professionals can work as a team to improve the health of the local communities. Our goal at the Heart Institute of East Texas has always been to build healthy communities. I sincerely want to thank all the healthcare professionals who participated in this successful and historic health fair.�
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p l a c e s & f a c e s | LU F K I N L I T T L E L E A G U E A L L - S T A R S T O U R N A M E N T
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p l a c e s & f a c e s | N E C H E S R I V E R R E N D E Z VO U S
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H o s t e d a n n u a l ly b y t h e A n g e l i n a Co u n t y C h a m b e r o f Co m m e r c e , t h i s u n i q u e 1 0 m i l e c a n o e t r ip d o w n t h e Ne c h e s R i v e r i s f u n f o r e v e r y o n e ! Pa r t i c ip a n t s c a n r e l a x a n d e nj o y t h e b e a u t i f u l s c e n i c s u r r o u n d i n g s a n d w i l d l i f e o r o b s e r v e t h e n u m e r o u s b i r d s , s q u i r re l s , w i l d h o g s , a n d a l l i g a t o rs . T h i s y e a r i s t h e 2 0 t h y e a r fo r t h i s e x c i t i n g A n g e l i n a Co u n t y e v e n t .
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vide a lot more care, if you need it.
ss E.R. Service Pledge – only at Woodland Heights Medical Center.
SUMMER 101:
*Medical professionals may include physicians, physician assistants and nurse practitioners. or indirectly owned by a partnership that proudly includes physician owners, including certain members of the hospital’s medical staff.
TIPS TO AVOID A SUMMERTIME ER VISIT WHETHER YOU ARE TRAVELING THE TEXAS ROADS TO SEE THE 4/5/17 BEACHES AND LAKES OR JUST HAVING A STAYCATION AT HOME, HERE A FEW TIPS TO HELP KEEP YOU AND YOUR LOVED ONES OUT OF THE EMERGENCY ROOM THIS SUMMER.
10:09 AM
H YDRATION, H YDRATION, H YDRATION • Start your day drinking water instead of coffee or tea. • Hydrate with juicy fruits and vegetables with high water content. • Drink before you feel thirsty. • Take “cool-down” breaks—for every one hour working or playing outside take a f ifteen minute “cool-down” break. • For those summer time baseball/softball players—have athletes gradually acclimatize to heat and humidity. • Use sunscreen with an SPF of 15 or higher that protects against UVA and UVB rays. Generously apply every two hours and after swimming or sweating.
THE HEAT IS ON • Heat Illness—Heat cramps, muscle, leg pain, spasms, cramping. Move to a cool place, drink water or sports drinks. • Call 911 or go to the Emergency Room if symptoms last more than an hour or if you have heart problems or are on a lowsodium diet. • Heat Exhaustion—heavy sweating; cold, clammy skin; nausea; vomiting; muscle cramps; dizziness; headache are signs of heat exhaustion. Move to a cool place, apply cool cloths or water to the body, sip water. Call 911 or go to the Emergency Room if vomiting, symptoms worsen or if they last more than an hour. • Heatstroke—THIS IS A MEDICAL EMERGENCY Symptoms include red, hot, dry or damp skin; rapid pulse; headache; confusion; dizziness; nausea; fainting. Call 911 immediately. Move yourself or the affected person to a cool place; apply cool water or cloths to the skin. Do not give anything to drink unless directed by 911.
ARRIVE ALIVE • Arrive to your summertime location safely by not being a distractive driver. Sending or reading a text takes your eyes off the road for 5 seconds. At 55 mph, that's like driving the length of an entire football f ield with your eyes closed. There are three main types of distractions: - Visual — taking your eyes off the road - Manual — taking your hands off the wheel - Cognitive — taking your mind off what you’re doing
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re a d e r ' s | S HOWCA S E
Congratulations to Ray Polk for his induction into the Angelina County Exposition Wall of Honor!
• South Loop Crossing • 4605 S Medford Dr • (936) 632-2333
Congratulations to Angelina & Neches River Authority on the groundbreaking of their new central off ice and laboratory!
Congratulations to ASAP Roof ing Nacogdoches on their ribbon cutting! We loved hearing about their business and their FREE services. For more information, visit their website at asaproof ingnacogdoches.com
Congratulations to the 36th graduating class from Leadership Luf kin!
With over 20 years of experience and a growing crew of service specialists, you can trust Bentley's AC with your residential or commercial projects in Luf kin, TX. They are located at 3112 South John Redditt Drive in Luf kin. Call them for a free consultation at (936) 671-2395.
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your | C H A L L E N G E
T he Cha ll en ge"Just slow d ow n .
Slow d ow n yo ur
t hin g . a e r b r u o y n ow d w lo sp eech . S g . Slow d ow n n ki al w r u o y n ow d w Slo is slow er, h t t le d n a , g in t a e r u yo yo ur m in d . e m fu r e p e ac p r ie stead Just slow d ow n ..."
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BURANO ISLAND, ITALY - REAGAN JORDAN, EMILY JORDAN AND SETH JORDAN
ARE YOU A PRO OR JUST A HOBBYIST? SHARE YOUR BEST PHOTOGRAPHY WITH US AND GIVE YOUR JOURNEY SOME EXPOSURE. SELECTED PHOTOGRAPHS WILL APPEAR IN THE JOURNEY MAGAZINE. PLEASE SEND YOUR HIGH RESOLUTION (300 DPI) IMAGES TO
kkhudman@yahoo.com
INCLUDE YOUR NAME, CONTACT INFORMATION AND ANY TITLE YOU WISH TO GIVE YOUR PHOTO. WE WANT TO PUBLISH YOUR JOURNEY IN THE BEST MAGAZINE!
BLUEBERRY PICKING AT RAMSEY BLUEBERRY FARM (LUFKIN) - BY KATIE STEWART FRUITY PEBBLE DONUTS IN CINCINNATI! - BY TIFFANI BRANTNER
HERE'S TO A GREAT SUMMER - BY JANNA PARTIN
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KICKING OFF SUMMER WITH RELAY! - BY CHASITY BOATMAN
ORANGE BEACH, ALABAMA - BY TASHA BROWN HAMILTON CAPRI, ITALY - BY ASHLEY SELF RELAY FOR LIFE SUMMER KICK-OFF BINGO! - BY CHELSEY GLENN
SUMMERTIME SHENANIGANS - BY LESLIE BALL
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Congratulations
C L ASS O F 2018
Nineteen members of the class of 2018 started their education at St. Cyprian’s. We celebrate their accomplishments, including those of Valedictorian Garrett Croley and Salutatorian Sarah Handley, both of Hudson, and Salutatorian Allison Todd of Lufkin. With your solid education foundation, we know all of you are prepared to serve and lead.
Front: (l-r) Avery Sanders, Kendall Jackson, Kerstin Andrews, Kelbi Winters, Kaelyn Winters, Daryn Overdorf Back: (l-r) Allison Todd, Anna McCauley, Garrett Croley, Megan Hudson, Julia Glass, Seth Jordan, Ian Greer, Alexandria Tatum, Jackson Treadwell, Addie Liles, Preston Loggins, Sarah Handley, Ryan Morris
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(936) 632-1720 1115 South John Redditt Lufkin, Texas 75904 saintcyprians.org
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Prese n ts :
T EX AS OUT D O OR EV ENT S | WATER SAFETY | FLOAT T RI P | N WT F | A ROU N D TH E CAM PFI R E
sp o r t s & | OU T D O OR S
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TEXAS
J U LY O U T D O O R E V E N T S
sp o r t s & o u t d o o r s | T E X A S O U T D O O R E V E N T S
Texas state parks host a wide range of activities throughout the year. We’ve gathered a few here, but be sure to check out the TPWD online calendar for a full list of events across the state. You can also f ind more information on specif ic times, maps/directions, and contact info. Visit https://tpwd.texas.gov/calendar
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JULY 5 Reading with a Ranger - Lake Bob Sandlin State Park Come join us for a nature themed tour through literature!
JULY 7 Dutch Oven Cooking - Daingerfield State Come join the Dutch Oven D.O.G.s for great food and fellowship the first Saturday of the month.
JULY 7 Build-A-Gator Family Workshop - Huntsville State Park Help Ranger Pick turn an audience member into an alligator!
JULY 14 Media Bass Fishing Tournament - Lake Tawakoni State Park For more information about the tournament please contact our office at 903-560-7123.
JULY 14 Stagecoach Saturday - Fanthorp Inn State Historic Site Travel back to 1850 aboard a mule-drawn stagecoach!
JULY 14 Yoga in the Woods - Huntsville State Park Join us for a relaxing afternoon of Yoga in the woods.
JULY 14 Night Sky Party - Lake Whitney State Park Come out and view the new moon at our Night Sky Party.
JULY 21 Guided Canoe Trip - Martin Dies, Jr. State Park Want to go out on a canoe, but not sure how to get started? Join a park guide for a fun paddling adventure.
JULY 21 Junior Angler Class - Mansfield, TX – Oliver Nature Park Youth ages 6-16 years old can learn about fishing.
JULY 28: Ranger Led Hikes - Lake Bob Sandlin State Park Enjoy nature with a Ranger led hike!
JULY 28: First Catch Center - Fort Worth Region – Kennedale, TX (Sonora Park) Bring the family to learn the basics of fishing through fun, hands-on activities.
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Water Safety It seems the most popular activities in a Texas summer revolve around water. Spending a day on the pontoon with the party crowd, fishing your favorite state park lake, swimming in that secluded creek only you your
sp o r t s & o u t d o o r s | WATER SAFETY
closest friends know about… Anything to try and keep cool, right? Texas has abundant opportunities for water sports and fun of all kinds, and the best way to keep it fun is to keep it safe. It’s easy for water activities to become dangerous, but it’s even easier to always practice water safety.
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The Texas Parks and Wildlife Department recommends these few simple tips: WEAR A LIFE JACKET LEARN HOW TO SWIM CLOSELY SUPERVISE CHILDREN USE THE IGNITION SAFETY SWITCH ON BOATS TAKE BOATER EDUCATION Just like with anything else, don’t take for granted that an accident will never happen. Stay alert and aware when around water, and respect it as the force of nature it is. Get out and enjoy all of the beautiful rivers, lakes, creeks, waterfalls, reservoirs and other incredible water features this great state has to offer, and stay cool and safe this summer!
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FLOAT T R IP WRITTEN by - Emily Courtney
sp o r t s & o u t d o o r s | F L O AT T R I P
I
t was one of the most serene nights
relaxing wavy sound as it laps up on the
of my life. I had wondered how it would
sand. There’s a refreshing breeze blowing
feel to sleep on a sandbar, whether the sand
in off the river.
would provide the cushiony bed I imagined
bushes and trees you can hear crickets
it would in my head. I have napped on many
chirping and owls hooting and all other
a beach in my time, but this was different.
manner of night critters talking to each
The sand wasn’t as cushiony, and sleeping
other and going about their night business.
on it an entire night was a much bigger
The entire scene around you is lit up by the
commitment than an hour or two. But I
soft, silvery-yellow glow of moonlight, and
didn’t care. I had definitely slept on harder
there is shadow and mystery everywhere.
ground. The feeling of euphoria washing
You lie there breathing the river air and
over me from my present circumstance,
wonder if there’s an alligator swimming
reminiscence of the day behind me, and
by right about now. How cool would that
anticipation of the day ahead blurred out
be? Just keep on swimming big guy. Your
any feelings of being uncomfortable, hot,
mind begins to reminisce on what an
or exhausted. I did have one small anxiety
amazing day you just had f loating in with
gnawing at the edge of my consciousness,
your buddies and enjoying time on the
though. The particular sandbar on which
river. You settle into the sand beneath you,
I was currently committed to spending my
let your senses soak in your surroundings,
night was shrinking every moment, as the
and drift off to sleep.
All around you in the
nightly rising of the tide crept up its banks. The shelf of sandy bank was already a
Partly, we just wanted to find out if we
shadow of its typical self, as the river was
could do it.
up due to recent heavy rainfall. So, when
course, was just spending time on the
my companions and I decided to set up
river and camping, but we also wanted to
camp there for the night, we did so with
challenge ourselves to see if we could pack
little to no certainty that the rising river
everything we would need for a night’s
wouldn’t reach our tents during the night.
camp in a kayak, spend a day f loating and
Through my euphoric cloud I occasionally
fishing, and keep it dry, survive a night on
would peek out my mesh window to check
a sandbar, sans campground luxuries, with
how much closer the water line had slinked
enough energy and gusto to paddle back
toward me. None of this may sound very
out to civilization the next day.
serene, but if you’re thinking that, you
summer, two friends and I picked out an
probably have never spent a night on a
11-mile stretch of slowly meandering river
sandbar.
and struck out. All three of us are fairly
That water that’s creeping nearer and
backpackers, so packing light had proven
nearer to your tent is making the most
to be a challenge on previous excursions.
Most of our motivation, of
So, last
experienced campers, but not necessarily
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sp o r t s & o u t d o o r s | F L O AT T R I P
The year before we spent an entire two-
light for just one night, but to consider
week road trip unable to see out of the
fitting a tent, sleeping gear, and food, at
back windshield due to the mass of bags
minimum, in a kayak, it’s actually not so
and gear filling the back of the car. I’ll
easy, especially if you don’t already own
go ahead and admit that I’m definitely the
ultralight backpacking gear.
most challenged in this area, and neither of my companions were much to blame
We all arrived at the boat launch with our
for that situation. However, a kayak was
minimal gear, and to our mutual delight
absolutely the smallest allotment of space
we all were able to fit our essentials, plus
any of us had ever allowed ourselves for
some non-essentials, into our kayaks.
packing camping gear, so we were excited
Challenge: dominated. We were pleased
to take on the challenge. It may not really
with ourselves and ready for the fun part;
seem like much of a challenge to pack that
f loating and fishing our way down river
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and finding a sandbar where we could chill, picnic,
ten minutes. It was going to be a great day. My
and set up camp. With the river being as high as
companions fished, I f loated. When I didn’t have to
it was, there was some level of uncertainty within
paddle, all of my energy was focused on achieving
the party about actually finding a sandbar that
maximum relaxation, which was fairly easy, with
was still exposed enough to have space for tents. If
the sun shining, cool water at my fingertips, and
we didn’t come across a suitable one, Plan B was
wilderness surrounding me. We stopped at a couple
paddling all the way through to the pull out spot and
of sandbars throughout the day, but didn’t feel like
camping there, which we weren’t sure we’d be able
any of them were just right, so we decided to gamble
to reach before dark. A lot of unknown variables,
and keep moving, hoping we’d come across the right
but luckily everyone involved in this endeavor is of
one further down river. Around mid afternoon we
the perspective that these types of situations just
finally did. I don’t think any of us were completely
keep life interesting. So we shoved off and began
sure of it at first, but we knew it was better than
our journey. We saw an alligator within the first
any of the others that we’d seen; more exposed,
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sp o r t s & o u t d o o r s | F L O AT T R I P
f latter, higher slope. We stopped to swim
I woke up the next morning and vaguely
there for a while and had a snack while
thought to check if my clothes were dry.
we talked it over, and finally decided to
They were. As my mind stumbled out of
commit. This would be our home for the
the fog of sleep I sat up and peeked out
night.
the window. The water was several feet from my tent.
I needn’t have worried.
We unpacked our gear and set up our
I could hear voices.
tents, then set about preparing our meals
were up already.
before dark.
My companions
Knowing them, the
We had a leisurely dinner
overachievers were probably fishing. I put
and sat up and talked into the night about
on my fresh change of clothes and exited
things that never come up in every day
my tent to see what they were up to. As I
conversations. We finally all succumbed
approached them, it looked like they were
to the exhaustion of the day and retired
huddled examining a fish one of them had
to our tents.
I spent my blissful night
caught. I was wrong. They were actually
reveling in our victory of having packed
examining a treble hook that was caught
well and reached a suitable sandbar, and
in one of their legs. She had caught a huge
soaking up the splendor of the natural
carp, which promptly upon landing shook
wonders around me, and trying to not
violently and threw the hook, sending it as
think too much about the water slowly
a projectile into her thigh. As I walked up
approaching my tent.
to this situation and realized what I was seeing, a wave of mild panic ran over me,
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and for a split second I wondered why no one else
that half of the paddle quicker. We reached the pull
was panicking, and then I remembered that these
out spot with no fainting spells or further injuries.
were probably the two calmest people on the planet.
Kayaking 6 leisurely miles with a treble hook stuck
They were simply discussing how they might go
in her leg, fishing and laughing all the way, is one
about trying to remove the hook, very matter-of-
of the grittiest displays of toughness I’ve ever
factly. Apparently this incident had happened quite
witnessed.
some minutes ago and the discussion was not fresh
room where they removed the hook.
when I joined it. We discussed and attempted some
definitely an unexpected twist in our adventure, but
basic hook removal methods, but due to the angle
not the sort we thought we might have.
of the hook and the tools we had on hand, none of
This trip has become one of my favorite memories
them were successful. The removal attempts were
with these friends. Partly because of how much fun
beginning to cause more pain than just leaving the
we had, partly because of the blissful experience
hook be, so that’s what she decided to do. There
of the night on the sandbar and partly because of
were few other options, as the only way to medical
the joy of accomplishing something we weren’t sure
help was paddling out as originally planned. She
we could. We haven’t had a chance to take another
convinced us she could make it, so we packed up
trip like this since, but we’re hoping to plan another
and headed on our way.
one in the near future. If you’ve never challenged
She finally made it to an emergency That was
yourself to pack your camping gear into a kayak, She insisted we take our time and enjoy the day,
you should try it sometime.
even though we knew she was in pain. We did fish
spent a night on a sandbar, I highly recommend it.
And if you’ve never
and f loat a bit along the way, but definitely made
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MAKING A DIFFERENCE... Remembering the Pineywoods NWTF conservation legacy of Aubrey Luce Jr. by DALE BOUNDS
On April 11, 2018 we
exceeded
lost our friend Aubrey
grossing
Luce Jr. after a lengthy
This put the PNWTFC
illness. In 2008, I met
#3 in the U.S. and top
Aubrey when I went
gun in Texas.
on a duck hunt in Polk
It
County with him and
power of one volunteer.
Jimmy Horton. Aubrey
The
asked me a thousand
surpassed
questions
the
every year since, three
NWTF
of which Aubrey was
(PNWTFC)
still serving as banquet
about
Pineywoods
sp o r t s & o u t d o o r s | N W T F
Chapter and
what
doing.
On
we the
is
goal
$135,000.
amazing PNWTFC
were
chairman.
way
According
home, Aubrey told me
our
that
to
the has goal
Texas
State NWTF President,
he would like to be on
Craig White, “Aubrey
our committee and help.
also served on the Texas State NWTF Board of
Aubrey was true to his word and we started a
Directors and added his valuable input to every
friendship and a partnership that yielded great
discussion brought before the board. He was an avid
dividends for conservation in Texas NWTF. His
turkey hunter and outdoorsman who participated
added efforts helped propel the PNWTF to some
in many East Texas Turkey releases as seen in this
top awards at the NWTF National Conventions in
2015 Eastern Wild Turkey release on the Angelina
Nashville, Tennessee and Texas NWTF Awards
National Forest."
events.
The Pineywoods NWTF Committee named its
Aubrey sold tickets to his many friends telling
Annual Scholarship after Aubrey in 2014. On
them about the NWTF mission of “Saving the
July 28, the 30th annual 2018 Pineywoods NWTF
Habitat and Saving the Hunter" Heritage.
Hunting Banquet held in Luf kin, Texas will give
He volunteered to be the PNWTF banquet
two scholarships
chairman in 2009 and our event grossed $57,000.
LaRoe in honor of Aubrey Luce.
The next year, 2010, we set a new PNWTF record
Contact: Pineywoods NWTF President Richard
of $87,000 with Aubrey as our banquet chairman.
Capps 936 366 1877 or email him at rmcwild@
The committee set a 2011 goal of raising $100,000.
yahoo.com. Gun Tickets will be available before
Michael Waddell was our special guest, and we
the banquet.
to Hunter Linton and Emily
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G
D
D & G O OD F R
IE
N
D
S
O
O
O FO
There’s nothing quite like gathering around a campfire to share stories and experiences from our time outdoors. We’d like to invite you to share your stories with us here by submitting photos of you and your loved ones enjoying the outdoors. Whether they’re snaps from a weekend camping trip, proof of a conquered hike, or a trophy shot of your kid with their first fish, we want to see them!
sp o r t s & o u t d o o r s | A R O U N D T H E C A M P F I R E
We know there’s a great community of outdoors enthusiasts in East Texas, and we’d love to see what you’re up to! Submit photos on our Facebook page, or post on Instagram using the hashtag #journeyout, and we’ll choose the best to print here every month!
HIKING AT GLEN CANYON DAM, ARIZONA - BY JASON SKINNER
"KAYAKING BUDDIES" -BY AARON SNYDER
SUBMIT PHOTOS ON OUR FACEBOOK PAGE, OR POST ON INSTAGRAM USING THE HASHTAG #JOURNEYOUT, AND WE’LL CHOOSE THE BEST TO PRINT HERE EVERY MONTH!
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Don’t let varicose veins come between you and your life. If you experience pressure, pain, swelling, heaviness or restlessness in your legs, it may be due to venous disease. Left untreated, venous diseases such as varicose veins can lead to blood clots, skin ulcerations and other serious complications.
David Sees, M.D. Board-Certified in Cardiothoracic Surgery
To treat venous disease, David Sees, M.D., uses minimally invasive procedures, which can be easier and result in less pain for patients. In addition, there is usually less swelling, heaviness and restlessness after the procedure. To schedule an appointment, call 936-249-0682.
WHCardiac.com Member of the Medical Staff at Woodland Heights Medical Center. Woodland Heights Medical Center is owned in part by physicians. Patient results may vary. Consult your physician about the benefits and risks of any surgical procedure or treatment.
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