The Team
Jerri Bankston CEO/Owner/Publisher/Editor 281-703-7742 jerri42@embarqmail.com
Sherrie Stone Graphic Designer 936-449-0138 sskkjj1@gmail.com
Rebecca Goff
Marketing Prayer and Praise Coordinator 713.376.5454 rebecca.goff.07@gmail.com
Joe Martin
Sales and Marketing for Crockett and surrounding areas 281-702-1572 joemartinshow@joemartinshow.com
TiMMark Angels.org. facebook.com/WholeKidAndKaboodle/ Find Us Online!
Spring 2025
Table of Contents
Jerri’s Corner
AGAIN…….THIS IS REALLY SCARY
I remember being afraid to buy my grandson a Maga hat, scared that someone would attack him. That was so awful having to be afraid of simply saying “Make America Great Again”. I thought it was all over.
So I was on facebook so I could promote prayer and praise on the 1st Fridays and add some posts to TiMMark Angels and as always can’t resist reading the first few items in my feed. A friend on facebook that I am associated with through a Church made a post which follows exactly.
“Are we ok with Elon Musk having access to our government computers? Are we ok with Musk having access to our National Security? Are we ok with Musk having access to all of our financial information? Also having access tor sensitive government information? This is wrong and it is unconstitutional!! Our government is about to be held hostage to a foreign born megalomaniac. This is crazy! Are you paying attention???”
So my reaction: Seeing as how others are privy to all of this as I’m sure China knows all about it, and the fact that there is so much corruption in our government and we are most assuredly in the end times, I responded this way.
On The Cover
Tucker, ZaZa and Eleanor won’t graduate from the same high school but feel certain they will all graduate Cum Laude.
All publications of The Whole Kid and Kaboodle can be viewed on our website: TiMMark Angels.org. and also on our Facebook Page The Whole Kid and Kaboodle. To receive the magazine by mail, submit your address to: jerri42@embarqmail.com.
Reader correspondence and editorial submissions are welcomed and encouraged, but we reserve the right to edit and reject all submissions. Advertisers assume all liability for content in their ad, and Kid and Kaboodle assumes no responsibility for sales or misleading advertisements.
“I’m paying attention happy to get rid of the corruption in our government. Trusting God to lead the people he’s put in charge. “ A person that I do not know and definitely does not know me replied to my comment. Here it is word for word.
“Listen Lady, God is not by any means ordaining this foolishness. This is a test for the true ppl of faith. We have to believe and have faith that Satan will never win. Sometimes we stray so far away from God as a nation God has to spank us. This is our spanking. O but the God I serve sits high and looks low and all you racist, bigoted, awful ppl will have hell to pay. May God have mercy on you all.” She continued with some illustrations of eating beans and cornbread as if the rest of us don’t. She directed me to get in my prayer closet and pray. She ended with “no one can say they know the Lord and treat ppl like this.”
So please re-read my comment and see if you can come up with something that makes me racist, bigoted and awful and not sure how she knows how I treat people which actually is very good. I love everyone but may have a little trouble with someone so hateful. This is so sad. I need prayer and we all need to pray for one another.
Julio’s Mexican Grill
33418 Egypt Ln,ste A,Magnolia, TX 77354 kids eat free with purchase of adult meal
Freebirds World Burrito free meals to kids under 12 with the purchase of an adult entree. Maximum two free kids meals per order.
Lubys
Free Kids Combos, All day Wednesday and Saturday from 11am to close.
Three B’s Bar and Grill
Kings Crossing - 4590 Kingwood Dr., Kingwood Tuesdays, 3 – 10 PM – 12 and under. Kids meal Only with purchase of adult entree.
IHop Humble
Sunday-Saturday 4 – 10 PM
Jason’s Deli’s Tuesdays
Texas
Denny’s
Tuesdays and Saturdays – 4 PM – 10 PM
Kingwood - 22671 Eastex Fwy, Kingwood, TX 77339 1314 & 59 Porter, Texas 242 & 59 - 23412 TX-242, New Caney, TX 77357
Dickey’s Pit Barbeque Kingwood
Sundays
Golden Corral
Kids 3 and under always eat free at Golden Corral with one adult buffet purchase.
IT’Z FAMILY FOOD & FUN,
18355 Tomball Pkwy, KIDS EAT FREE THURSDAY , one free personal pizza with the purchase of a regular adult meal purchase. does not include drinks
Dinner 7 nights a week
Brunch Saturday and Sunday 11 - 3
�� Welcome to TIMMARK Angels! ��
At TIMMARK Angels, we believe that every child deserves the opportunity to feel loved, supported, and encouraged—especially those facing developmental challenges like Autism, Down Syndrome, and hearing impairments. But for many of these children, hope is hard to come by
�� Your
Generosity Can Change a Life ��
Every day, families struggle to find the resources and support they need to help their children thrive. That’s where TIMMARK Angels steps in. With your donation, we can support their dreams. When you donate , you are directly supporting these families. Your generosity helps us provide resources, educational programs, and a network of hope for the children and their parents
�� Every Donation Makes a Big Impact �� ✨ No matter how big or small ✨
Supporting TiMMark publications/the whole Kid Kaboodle magazine and the book ministry is another way for you to show your support.
We believe in the power of the written word to uplift and inspire families. Through our publication, The Whole Kid and Kaboodle Magazine, we provide good, helpful, and wholesome information while promoting faith and family values.
We invite you to partner with us as a sponsor of The Whole Kid and Kaboodle Magazine! By becoming a sponsor, you will not only align your brand with our values but also make a tangible impact in the lives of children and families in need.
Here’s how your sponsorship can help:
��Reach a Targeted Audience: Connect with parents, grandparents, and families seeking family-friendly content.
��Enhance Brand Visibility: Gain increased exposure through strategic logo placement and advertisements within the magazine.
��Support the Community: Your support enables us to provide valuable resources, events, scholarships, and educational programs for deserving individuals.
We have various sponsorship packages tailored to different levels of support, and we’re open to customizing a package to fit your specific marketing goals and budget.
For sponsorship opportunities please contact:
Jerri Bankston, Executive Director/Publisher at: jerri42@embarqmail.com.
#TIMMARKAngels #inspiration #hope #supportFamilies
#autismawareness #downsyndrome #hearingimpairments #faithandfamily #sponsorship #TheWholeKidAndKaboodle
�� Check Out Emi Lynn’s Inspiring Book! ��
We are excited to share that Jerri Bankston, the founder of TiMMark Angels, has written a powerful and inspiring book under her pen name, “Emi Lynn,” titled “God, You Must Think I’m Crazy.”
In this heartfelt memoir, Emi Lynn shares her journey of faith, resilience, and determination as she navigates the challenges of life and the mission of TiMMark Angels.
Prayer Still Works!
By Shalonda McFarland - Author, Speaker, Gospel Recording Artist
Prayer is how we talk to God. Reading his word, the Bible, is how He talks to us. These are two ways we have communication with God, our Father. When we are consistent with these two things, we develop a deeper relationship with Him.
Purpose of Prayer-Prayer shows our dependence on Our Father, and our trust in Him. He already knows what we need but he wants us to be involved in the process.
Privilege of Prayer-When Jesus freely died on the cross for humanity’s sins, he gave us access to come to God directly. When the curtain in the temple was torn from top to bottom, it symbolized the end to the need of a middle man to get to God. We no longer need a priest to go to God on our behalf, we have direct access to talk to our Father anytime we want. That is a blessing!
Pattern of Prayer-We pray TO the Father, IN the name of Jesus Christ his son, BY Holy Spirit, the third person of the Triune God. There is no pattern you need to follow when you talk to your Father, but to help you gather your thoughts, and structure your prayer so you can remain focused, it may be helpful to think of the acronym A.C.T.S. - Adoration, Confession, Thanksgiving, and Supplication (asking God to supply something). To remember the acronym, think of the book of the bible The ACTS of the Apostles and let A.C.T.S. help guide your prayers.
Persistent in Prayer-Just because you pray, doesn’t mean you will see every prayer answered immediately. Some things you’ll have to keep praying about, but know He hears you every time you pray. He wants you to trust His will, and His timing with everything you ask, and with every answer He gives.
Parameters of Prayer-Note, as said earlier, prayer is a privilege, but it is not a right. Prayer is reserved for those who have accepted Jesus Christ as their savior, which means they are Saved. For the unsaved, the only prayer God hears is the prayer of repentance unto salvation. Once a person accepts the free gift of salvation, then they can enjoy the privilege of prayer.
To learn more about the Power of Prayer, Peace in Prayer, see the prayers Jesus himself prayed, and so much more, get your copy of Praying with Purpose, a Foundational Guide to Effective Prayer, on Amazon.com.
To learn more about Shalonda, visit her website ShalondaMcFarland.com and choose your next read by following Shalonda’s author page on Amazon.com at the QR code below
Their playful wish causes them to swap bodies! Get ready for a hilarious read about a pastor and his female secretary. Get your copy of Sunday Swap at Amazon.com.
Ready to take your prayers to the next level? Get your copy of Praying with Purpose or Praying with Purpose - Over My Pastor, at Amazon.com.
¡La oración sigue funcionando!
Por Shalonda McFarland - Autora, Oradora, Artista de Gospel La oración es la forma en que hablamos con Dios. La lectura de su palabra, la Biblia, es la forma en que Él nos habla. Estas son dos formas en que tenemos comunicación con Dios, nuestro Padre. Cuando somos consistentes con estas dos cosas, desarrollamos una relación más profunda con Él.
Propósito de la oración: la oración muestra nuestra dependencia de Nuestro Padre y nuestra confianza en Él. Él ya sabe lo que necesitamos, pero quiere que nos involucremos en el proceso.
Privilegio de la oración: Cuando Jesús murió libremente en la cruz por los pecados de la humanidad, nos dio acceso para venir a Dios directamente. Cuando la cortina del templo se rasgó de arriba abajo, simbolizó el fin de la necesidad de un intermediario para llegar a Dios. Ya no necesitamos un sacerdote que vaya a Dios en nuestro nombre, tenemos acceso directo para hablar con nuestro Padre cuando queramos. ¡Eso es una bendición!
Oramos al Padre, en el nombre de Jesucristo su hijo, por el Espíritu Santo, la tercera persona del Dios Trino. No hay un patrón que debas seguir cuando hables con tu Padre, pero para ayudarte a ordenar tus pensamientos y estructurar tu oración para que puedas permanecer enfocado, puede ser útil pensar en el acrónimo A.C.T.S. - Adoración, Confesión, Acción de Gracias y Súplica (pedirle a Dios que suplique algo). Para recordar el acrónimo, piense en el libro de la biblia Los Hechos de los Apóstoles y deje que A.C.T.S. guíe sus oraciones.
Persistencia en la oración: El hecho de que ores no significa que verás cada oración contestada de inmediato. Hay cosas por las que tendrás que seguir orando, pero debes saber que Él te escucha cada vez que oras. Él quiere que confíes en Su voluntad y en Su tiempo con todo lo que pidas, y con cada respuesta que Él da.
Nota: Como se dijo anteriormente, la oración es un privilegio, pero no es un derecho. La oración está reservada para aquellos que han aceptado a Jesucristo como su salvador, lo que significa que son salvos. Para los que no son salvos, la única oración que Dios escucha es la oración de arrepentimiento para salvación. Una vez que una persona acepta el regalo gratuito de la salvación, entonces puede disfrutar del privilegio de la oración.
Para aprender más sobre el Poder de la Oración, la Paz en la Oración, ver las oraciones que Jesús mismo oró, y mucho más, obtenga su copia de Orar con Propósito, una Guía Fundamental para la Oración Efectiva, en Amazon.com.
Para obtener más información sobre Shalonda, visite su sitio web ShalondaMcFarland.com y elija su próxima lectura siguiendo la página de autor de Shalonda en Amazon.com en el código QR a continuación.
¡Su deseo juguetón hace que intercambien cuerpos! Prepárate para una lectura hilarante sobre un pastor y su secretaria. Consigue tu copia de Sunday Swap en Amazon.com.
¿Listo para llevar tus oraciones al siguiente nivel? Obtenga su copia de Orando con Propósito u Orando con Propósito - A través de Mi Pastor, en Amazon.com.
Monster Truck Wars Crosby Far and Rodeo
Discover Your Future at the Generation Park Campus
San Jacinto College’s Generation Park Campus is more than just a place to take classes — it’s a launchpad for your future. Whether you’re looking to start a new career, advance in your current one, or transfer to a four-year university, our campus offers quality education that fits your goals and lifestyle. With small classes, modern facilities, and in-person and online options, we provide a supportive learning environment that makes it easy to earn your degree or certificate.
Generation Park meets the evolving needs of the community. The campus features programs in highdemand fields and emerging technologies, including the upcoming Center for Biotechnology. It also houses the Center of Entrepreneurship, offering resources and mentorship for those wanting to start or grow their own businesses. At Generation Park, you’ll find the resources, support, and opportunities to take your education — and your future — to the next level.
Ready to launch?
Our 57-acre campus near Summerwood and Beltway 8 in northeast Houston is the perfect place to start.
LOCAL PARKS AND ACTIVITIES
Carter Park, Collins Park, Dennis Johnston Park, Jesse h. Jones & nature Center, kiCkerillo-MisCher Preserve, anD PunDt Park
Offers canoe/kayak launches at for those interested in canoeing/kayaking Spring Creek, Cypress Creek, and associated waterways. Reservations are required to use a launch to access Spring Creek, Cypress Creek, or associated waterways. Reservations are not required to use the launch at Kickerillo-Mischer Preserve to access Marshall Lake.
Fishing
Fishing enthusiasts can experience many unique fishing opportunities year-round, with access to fishing in Spring Creek, Cypress Creek, and stocked fishing lakes.
PiCniCs
Offers free picnic pavilions with electricity and grills by reservation only at Burroughs Park, Dennis Johnston Park, Meyer Park, and Spring Creek Park. Jesse Jones Park & Nature Center and Mercer Botanic Gardens also offer free picnic pavilions by reservation only, but electricity is not available at these locations.
Any parks not listed above that offer small picnic pavilions, picnic tables, or grills are available for use without a reservation on first come, first served basis only during normal park hours
Jones Park
Jesse H. Jones Park & Nature Center is a premier 312-acre nature preserve open daily to visitors free of charge. The park features a variety of plant and wildlife species, white sand beaches along Spring Creek, swamps and sloughs with century-old cypress trees, and a pristine floodplain located in a hardwood and pine forest. All features are accessible by over eight miles of paved, handicap-friendly pedestrian trails and several unpaved primitive trails. The Spring Creek Greenway, with over 16 miles of paved trail system along Spring Creek, is also accessible from the park’s Judy Overby Bell Trail and Jones Bender Trail. the Davy CroCkett national
Forest
The Davy Crockett National Forest, named for the legendary pioneer, contains more than 160,000 acres of East Texas woodlands, streams, recreation areas, and wildlife habitat. Located in Houston and Trinity Counties,
the forest is centrally located within the Neches and Trinity River basins. The Davy Crockett National
Forest was proclaimed a National Forest by President Franklin Roosevelt on October 15, 1936.Free Tent & RV Camping.
Mission teJas state Park
Enjoy the peace of the Pineywoods and glimpses of the past at Mission Tejas State Park. Midway between Dallas and Houston, the park is at the north end of the Davy Crockett National Forest.
Whether you want to rest or play, you’ll be glad you came!
Hike, Fish, Camp, Nature watch, Explore history, Reserve a group site for your next gathering Davy CroCkett sPring & Brewer Park
Davy Crockett Spring & Brewer Park in Crockett, TX, is a peaceful green space nestled in the heart of the town and is a great place to spend the day with your
family. This park has a playground, picnic tables, and plenty of green space for games and activities. Take a stroll around the park and enjoy the beautiful flowers and trees. And if you’re feeling competitive, challenge your friends to a game of basketball or volleyball.
REGISTER TODAY!
COLLEGE. CLOSE TO HOME.
Explore the many workforce programs and degree plans that Lone Star College-Kingwood offers!
Polysomnography (Starting in Fall!)
Healthcare
Visual Communication
Engineering
Teaching
Fire Science
Computers & Networking
Process Technology
Welding & HVAC
Police Academy
And more!
Friday, May 30, 2025 l Crockett High all day - Crockett High School
Thursday, May 22, 2025 | Humble Civic Center
7 p.m. - Guy M. Sconzo Early College High School
Friday, May 23, 2025 | NRG Stadium
8 p.m. - Atascocita High School
Saturday, May 24, 2025 | NRG Stadium
9 a.m. - Summer Creek High School
12:30 p.m. - Humble High School
4 p.m. - Kingwood Park High School
7:30 p.m. - Kingwood High School
May 21 2025 l New Caney High School 7:00 PM - New Caney High School
May 31, 2025 l Sam Houston State University, Bernard G. Johnson Coliseum, 1964 Bobby K. Marks Drive, Huntsville, TX
10a.m. - Splendora High School
Friday, May 25, 2025 Class of 2025
Neches Federal Credit Union Arena at the Montagne Center located at Lamar University
3:00 PM! - Cleveland High School
Saturday, May 24, 2025 I Reed Arena (on Texas A&M campus) College Station, TX
6:00 p.m. - Magnolia High 8:00 PM - Magnolia West
Saturday, May 24, 2025
LAKE HOUSTON AREA LIBRARIES
Atascocita Branch Library
19520 Pinehurst Trail Dr, Atascocita, TX 77346
Hours: Mon. 11a-6p / Tue. 10a-8p / Wed. 10a-6p
Thu. 10a-8p / Fri. 1p-6p / Sat. 10a-5p
Phone: (832) 927-5560
Octavia Fields Branch Library
1503 S Houston Ave, Humble, TX 77338
Hours: Mon. 11a-8p / Tues 10a - 6p / Wed 10a - 8p
Thurs 10a - 6p / Fri 1p - 6p / Sat 10a - 5p
Phone: (832) 927-5500
Kingwood Branch Library
4400 Bens View Ln, Kingwood, TX 77339
Hours: Mon. 10am-8pm / Tues.10am-8pm / Wed. 10am-8pm
Thurs. 10am-9pm / Fri, 1pm-6pm / Sat. 10am-5pm
Phone: (832) 927-7830
http://www.hcpl.net/location/kingwood-branch-library
Hours: Monday: 9am - 8pm
Tuesday - Thursday: 9am - 6pm
Friday - Saturday: 9am - 5pm
Main Phone Number: 936-442-7704 Branch Manager: Elaine Taylor 936-522-2792
Humble ISD
welcomes students from throughout the Houston region
Humble ISD, ranked in the top 7 percent of Best School Districts in the nation by Niche, is now accepting students who live throughout the Houston region. Parents who are able to provide transportation may apply to take advantage of all that Humble ISD has to offer. Students
are admitted to elementary, middle, and high schools throughout the 2024-25 school year. The application is available at www.humbleisd.net/open-enrollment.
Innovation drives education at Humble ISD. The district is engaged in a robust school construction and facilityenhancement program that includes new, imaginativelythemed, handicappedaccessible playgrounds at elementary schools; outdoor fitness centers at secondary schools; modernized buildings featuring natural light; inviting collaborative spaces; and career labs.
Humble ISD students benefit from safe learning environments, including a
North Bend Elementary’s “Ski Lodge/ Winter Sports” outdoor play and learn area is a resource for students and the community in Humble ISD
Atascocita Springs Elementary students learn through play on the new Jurassic Park themed outdoor space in Humble ISD.
Humble ISD high schools offer 40 programs of study and 179 CTE courses that provide training in barbering, culinary arts, criminal justice, health sciences, information technology, to name a few. In addition, there are more than 100 Advanced Placement courses, an International Baccalaureate Program, and dual credit classes in partnership with San Jacinto Community College, Lone Star College - Kingwood, and The University of Texas OnRamps program. Students also can participate in JROTC programs from the Army, Navy, Air Force and Marines. With more than 40 job-ready certifications to choose from,
police officer on every campus, an award-winning Humble ISD Police Department, student wellness counselors, and strong family involvement.
Starting in elementary school, Humble ISD students engage in art, music, library, STEM, and physical education in addition to core subjects. A unique offering for middle school students is a Career and Technical Education (CTE) wheel where 6th grade students explore future careers in agriculture, criminal justice, finance, health science, hospitality, information technology, and more.
students can graduate high school and have the skills and credentials to get started on their career right away. Humble ISD students’ SAT scores exceed state and national averages. Humble ISD has some of the most competitive athletics and fine arts programs in the state of Texas, including mariachi and eSports.
Families who are interested in joining a tradition of excellence in academics, athletics, and fine arts are encouraged to apply as out-of-district students today. Spots are limited.
Kingwood Park High School students in Humble ISD dedicate a tiny home to a veteran as part of the Big Heroes, Tiny Homes student-led community collaborative project
Atascocita Middle School students compete in the Top Hat Junior Chef competition in Humble ISD
River Pines Elementary’s Rainforest playground is part of Humble ISD’s “Eat, Play, Learn and Grow” vision
Cleveland ISD Growing and Thriving
Cleveland ISD takes pride in its comprehensive Career Technical Education (CTE) programs. These programs empower students to explore their
interests and develop practical skills in a variety of career clusters. Whether a student aspires to be a skilled tradesperson in Construction or Welding, a culinary artist in Culinary Arts, or a future healthcare professional through Health Science programs, Cleveland ISD offers the resources and support to make those dreams a reality. These CTE programs are designed to give students a competitive edge in their chosen career paths, providing them with the skills and knowledge necessary to excel in today’s job market.
GROWING IN CLEVELAND
The introduction of the Community On Patrol in Schools (C.O.P.S) program is a testament to the district’s dedication to the safety and security of its students. By involving community volunteers in the oversight of school campuses, Cleveland ISD is fostering a strong sense of shared responsibility for safety. These volunteers play a vital role in monitoring various aspects of the school day, ensuring that students can focus on learning in a secure environment. The C.O.P.S program not only enhances safety but also strengthens the bond between the district and the community, creating a supportive and protective educational ecosystem.
Sorcha, the drug detection dog, has quickly become a beloved member of the Cleveland ISD family. With her keen senses and friendly demeanor, she makes the daily campus visits a positive experience for students and staff. Sorcha’s role in the district is essential in ensuring a drugfree environment where students can learn and thrive without
unnecessary distractions. Her presence is a symbol of Cleveland ISD’s proactive approach to maintaining a safe and drug-free school environment, reinforcing the district’s commitment to the well-being of its students.
In summary, Cleveland ISD’s impressive growth, commitment to academic excellence, and dedication to the safety and security of its students make it a standout district in the Texas educational landscape. The success stories of its graduates and the innovative programs in place continue to set high standards for education and provide a nurturing environment for students to flourish. Cleveland ISD is not only growing but thriving, creating a bright future for its students and the community as a whole.
Cleveland ISD is led by Superintendent Stephen W. McCanless. Mr. McCanless is a Native Texan, having been raised in and completing all of his public school years in Channelview ISD. Being from a family of 4 brothers and 5 sisters, McCanless says that education was always a topic of discussion at the dinner table. Mr. McCanless received his Associates Degree in Social Science from San Jacinto College, his Bachelor’s Degree in Literature and Master’s Degree in Education Management, both from University of Houston Clear Lake. McCanless has completed all course work for his Ed.D in Educational Supervision at Lamar University. Mr. McCanless’s philosophy is, “Every child can learn; our job is to support and inspire them in this journey.”
Cleveland ISD is led by Superintendent Stephen W. McCanless. Mr. McCanless is a Native Texan, havingbeenraisedinandcompletingallofhispublicschoolyearsinChannelviewISD.
Being from a family of 4 brothers and 5 sisters, McCanless says that education was always a topic of discussionatthedinnertable.Mr. Science from San Jacinto College, his Bachelor’s Degree in Literature and Master’s Degree in EducationManagement,bothfrom all course work for his Ed.Din Educational Supervision at Lamar University.. Mr. McCanless’s philosophyis,“Everychildcanlearn;ourjobistosupportandinspiretheminthisjourney”.
Rebuilding Broken Relationships
Deborah Elum, Author & Producer
Jean experienced a deep sense of betrayal when a pipe burst, flooding her home. A place filled with cherished memories had turned into a scene of devastation. To make matters worse, her husband, Greg had recently undergone surgery and was in no condition to help with the repairs.
The couple now facing a financial hardship, reached out to their children, hoping for some assistance. Their children all financially secure, chose not to help in any way.
This decision left Jean feeling abandoned by those she had always supported and cared for. It was several years before the couple was finally able to restore their home. Through determination and hard work, the journey to making it livable again was long, marked by countless sacrifices.
Then, an unexpected situation arose when one of their children needed a place to stay. The same house their children had refused to help repair was now seen as a place of refuge in their time of need. Initially, Jean felt a mixture of anger, hurt, and disbelief. It seemed unfair that one of her children would come to her for help after refusing to extend a helping hand when she needed it
Nevertheless, Jean decided to put aside her feelings of betrayal and allow her child back into her home. In choosing forgiveness over resentment, Jean demonstrated remarkable love and strength, guided by God’s words in:
1 Corinthians 13:4-5: Love is patient and kind. Love is not jealous or boastful or proud or rude. It does not demand its own way. It is not irritable, and it keeps no record of being wronged.
Jean’s journey from betrayal to redemption is an inspiration, showing that in the face of adversity, we can choose to be better, not bitter. Her actions mirrored Jesus’s selfless love through His life and death. Just as Jesus sacrificed Himself to forgive our sins, Jean chose forgiveness over resentment.
This Easter season, as we celebrate Jesus’ resurrection, let us also reflect on how we can follow His teachings in our lives, extending forgiveness and compassion to those around us. Love can triumph over past grievances. By following the example of Jesus, we can receive healing from the wounds of the past and rebuild broken relationships.
You can contact Deborah at P.O. Box 1594, Humble, Texas 77347-1594 or calling (281) 570-4947. Listen to Deborah’s Podcast at: https://redcircle.com/shows/changing-your-life-with-the-word
“A Fabulously Fun Read And Just Downright Hilarious!”
It is Time for a Church Overhaul! The Pastor of Sunnydale Community Church just does not know what to do. He is at his wits end with a church of rowdy ladies, a dysfunctional Deacon Board, and one nosey secretary. A Church with Spots and Wrinkles is a hilarious comedy by Deborah Elum. Price $12.95. Available at Amazon.com or LULU. COM
“Grab a Cup Of Coffee and Hold On To Your Funny Bone!”
Grab a cup of coffee and hold on to your funny bone as a pair of twin sisters put a smile on your face, laughter in your heart, and joy in your soul. This lighthearted comedy about sisterhood, romance, and friendships will leave you thirsting for more. Wake Up and Smell the Coffee! by Deborah Elum. Price $12.95. Available at Amazon.com or LULU. COM.
“Much More Than A Song”
By JoAnn Breitling and Joe Martin
MY HUSBAND SAM and I had been married for 13 years in 1982. We had four beautiful daughters when we learned I was expecting again. We both worked in government jobs. Sam was a police officer. I was a mail carrier. Our lives were busy and hectic at times, but we would not have had it any other way.
March of 1983, labor started ten days early. I had just stopped working two days before! Our last baby had come so quickly, she was born in the hallway of the hospital! But it was perfectly timed for a December birth, when there is no room at the inn.
This labor was different. It was longer. I sensed something was not right. It was kind of a gut feeling. Finally, just after noon, our son arrived! Yes, finally! We had a baby boy! We named him Samuel Matthew, and we would call him “Matthew”. He was our “gift of God.”
It was almost two full days before we learned that Matthew had Down syndrome. We had so many questions. There was no Google or Wikipedia---there was not even an internet to go to! We reached out to other parents that met in person and in homes. That is how networks of Down syndrome parents first connected. Sam and I realized that our lives were changed forever. We did not realize how deeply they were changed. Matthew taught us more about the true meaning of life what was really important that we could have ever learned on our own. He almost died during an open heart surgery…..Thank God he didn’t, and our faith was strengthened. Before we knew it, he had two younger sisters! With seven children, our lives became even busier. It was now necessary for me to work for both the income and medical insurance.
As a mail carrier, I walked ten miles a day. And yes, in all kinds of weather. The long walks became almost a spiritual time for me. One day, words to a song about Matthew began to come to me, I could not get to my postal jeep soon enough where I began to write down the words! All that I had to write on was a napkin from lunch. I began to scribble on the napkin and the title came to me…….”A Special Child”!
Although all of our daughters played musical instruments, none of them knew how to put my words to music. “A Special Child” was a dream that was put on a shelf, and forgotten…. for decades.
By 2013, Sam and I had both retired. Four of our daughters were married. We had 13 grandchildren! Suddenly, our youngest daughter got engaged. She lived 260 miles away! How would I ever plan a wedding with that distance? Like a divine intervention, doors began to open. We had the chance to move 260 miles and be parents of the bride, while another daughter and her family were excited to move into our family home. Sam was hesitant but finally we took a leap of faith and started a new life in Kingwood, Texas. Sam loved to meet people. He would ride his motorcycle to Starbucks every morning. It was on
Matt & Sam (Dad)
Brietling Family.
one of these days that Sam met the amazing and very talented Joe Martin.
Joe Martin wrote, Sam and I met through the love of motorcycles. Several of us so to speak “Bikers” met Saturdays and Sundays and then though the week at Starbucks, Kingwood Texas.
One morning Sam handed me an envelope and said take it with you. Said my wife wrote the words can you put it to music. Hadn’t yet looked at it but I told my friend, sure. Guess it was several months before I got around to it but finally changed a few words, added a chorus and put it to music.
The song JoAnn wrote had a certain flair about it. I understood it as we have a son Jason now 52 that was diagnosed as mildly impaired which wasn’t put that way back in the 70’s. I call all
people, with Downs syndrome, Autism, etc. “Special Needs Kids.”
“A Special Child” different than most of my songs as I write Comedy, Satire, controversial songs political
Matthew birthday
in nature. Joann captured all special needs kids in the lyrics besides Matthew, therefore, I’d say it’s a “Tribute to all Special Needs Kids.” It tickled me JoAnn said she wrote the words on a napkin. Some of the most incredible songs, inventive ideas or any thoughts are written on scrap pieces of paper, napkins or anything writable hence the Berne Convention came about.
JoAnn Breitling wrote: It was a warm Spring day when we drove to meet Joe and his wife Carol in his music studio, and we heard the song come to life for the first time! What a thrill it was! It was better than I could have ever imagined. Joe’s talent combined with his love for his son Jason, my son Matthew, and all children with special needs is what makes this song a success. I was truly humbled that an artist as talented as Joe Martin had agreed to put music to my words, bringing my story to life. My dream was now a reality!
Joe Martin’s expertise in the music business as Recording Artist, Singer/ Songwriter spans many years traveling the 48 states, Canada, Thule Greenland. He played the Golden Nugget several years in the 60’s and lived there from 87 to 92. He has played with many notables, Charlie Pride when “Snakes Crawl at Night”, Ray Sharpe “Linda Lou,” The Champs “Tequila,” Oliver “Jean,” O.C. Smith “Little Green Apples,” The Cowsils and Louie Nye. He has some of his songs being played in 17 countries and Japanese TV and another that’s the theme song for group called Women In Trucking that aires on SirusXM Radio.. He has done many radio commercials that aired on several AM station through-out the Houston area.
The song, “A Special Child” can be listend to on his you tube channel https://youtu.be/aZM-w_kcIAE It is a tribute to ALL special needs kids.
Joe Martin and his wife now live in Crockett Texas bringing this magazine, “The Whole Kid and Kaboodle” with him as Sales and Marketing Director for Crockett and surrounding areas. If you wish to get in touch send email to joemartinshow@joemartinshow.com
Carol & Jason
THE MAN IN THE ARENA
I’ve lost almost 300 games. 26 times, I’ve been trusted to take the game winning shot and missed. I’ve failed over and over and over again in my life. And that is why I succeed.” ― Michael Jordan
Have you ever felt the sting of criticism in pursuing your dreams, especially when you’re giving it your all? In our age of social media, we are surrounded by critiques about what went wrong, who is to blame, and how things could have been done better. But we should never let negative criticism hinder us from reaching our goals.
Last year, our family flew to Las Vegas to watch a friend of the family who had qualified for the National Finals Rodeo to compete in the Team Roping event. It was an exciting time for us all, knowing Tanner had secured a place at the most prestigious rodeo event in the United States to compete against the best in the sport. It took a lot of hard work and endless practice to get there. Even with blisters on his hands from a rope burn in one of his competitions, he persevered. His team did not place in the final competition, but he could walk away proud of what he had achieved through perseverance and dedication to his dream. It reminded me of the quote from a speech from Theodore Roosevelt: “It is not the critic who counts… the credit belongs to the man who is actually in the arena, whose face is marred by dust and sweat and blood; who strives valiantly; who errs, who comes short again and again… who at the best knows in the end the triumph of high achievement, and who at the worst, if he fails, at least fails while daring greatly.”
Being in the arena means making yourself vulnerable. It means taking risks, facing potential failures, and sometimes becoming a target for criticism. However, it’s also the only way to achieve something meaningful. Every missed throw, every mistake, becomes an opportunity to learn and grow. Whether it is a personal setback, a financial hurdle, or a twist of fate that threatens to knock us off course, we have to dust ourselves off, climb back onto the horse, and nod for the gate to open once more. If you find yourself yearning for something more but afraid to make a change, or desiring to pursue a dream, I encourage you to take that first step. Challenge yourself, embrace vulnerability, and always remember: the true hero is the one actively battling in the arena.
Paula Enloe worked as a legal assistant for over 25 years and is a certified family law mediator. She is the author of the book “Lessons From My Mirror - Change Begins With Me.” Paula and her husband Noble, began having Bible Studies in their home when Covid-19 restricted public gatherings in church buildings. When their group began to grow, they founded the Family Worship Center of Plum Grove, Texas. In 2022, they moved into a building but continue to keep the home setting inside with couches, tables and chairs. Their motto is “Doing Church Differently”. They count it as their greatest privilege to share the love of Jesus to each person they come in contact with daily.
2025 In A Pickle Festival New Braunfels
Fun, Food, and all things Pickle.
This event is a pickle lover’s dream come true! Indulge in a wide variety of pickled treats, from classic dill pickles to unique pickle-flavored snacks like; pickle pizza, pickle chamoy, pickle snow cones, pickle beer, pickle roasted elote, pickle salsa, pickle cotton candy, freeze dried pickle items, pickle popcorn, and pickled ice cream just to name a few!
Sample delicious pickles from around 25 canning vendors and shop over 100 vendors for pickle-themed merchandise and exciting pickle-themed activities and games for the whole family.
Can you take on some of the biggest pickle lovers in the pickle eating and drinking contest for kids and adults?
Join the pickle canning competition.
And don’t miss out on the pickle pet parade where the best dressed pup gets to take home some exciting prizes!
Come enjoy this community favorite event with local live music by Bluebonnet Basterds, contests, and entertainment throughout the festival!
Event Schedule
11:15- Comal County Senior Citizens Pickle Crowning
12:00- Pickled Pet Parade
12:20- Kids Coloring Contest
1:20- Home Canning Pickle Contest (ALL ENTRIES MUST BE RECEIVED BY 12:20)
1:40- Kids Pickle Eating Contest Sponsored by: Rico’s (Ages 8-16)
2:00- Kids Pickle Juice Drinking Contest by Bob’s Pickle Pop’s (all ages welcome)
2:30- Adults Pickle Eating Contest Sponsored by: Rico’s (17 and up)
Please note we are only accepting 12 ENTRIES for the pickle eating and adult drinking contests.
3:00- Adults Pickle Juice Drinking Contest by Bob’s Pickle Pop’s
4:00- Pickle Toss
Trophies, cash gift cards, and other prizes will be awarded to the top contestants. Please email inquiries to inapicklefestival@gmail.com. For vendor and sponsor information please email inapicklefestival@gmail.com or visit our website for all events and vendor applications at JG-Events.com
March 15th 11am - 5pm. A pickle
In a Pickle Festival / New Braunfels!
