The Whole Kid and Kaboodle Winter 2021

E FR E

Winter 2021

KE TA ON E

An Activity and Resource Guide for Families Is Fear Attacking You or Are You Attacking Fear? pg 10 ¿El miedo te está atacando o estás atacando tu miedo? pg 11

Magnolia pg 8 Much More Than A Song pg 32

ATASCOCITA • FALL CREEK • HUMBLE • HUFFMAN • KINGWOOD • PORTER • NEW CANEY • ROMAN FOREST • SPLENDORA • CLEVELAND • MAGNOLIA • SUMMERWOOD kid-and-kaboodle.com

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Right Size. Right Location.

Right Mortgage?

Whether purchasing a new home or remodeling your existing home, Derisse is ready to help open doors to your new dream house. Derisse will be there every step of the way and ensure you get the right loan for your project or new home purchase.

To learn more, talk to Derisse Plant today!

Derisse Plant Mortgage Lender | NMLS# 1775121 281-318-4607 | DPlant@ff n.com Cell 281-733-4272 | derissep@comcast.net 24080 Highway 59 N Ste 100 Kingwood, TX 77339

Kid-and-Kaboodle.com 3

The Team Fall 2021

Jerri Bankston

CEO/Owner/Publisher/Editor

Table of Contents

Jerri’s Corner

Kids Eat Free....................................................6

Our sunset is coming

Magnolia...........................................................8

I was reflecting on this beautiful sunrise in Hot Springs, Arkansas

Is Fear Attacking You or Are You Attacking Fear............................................................10-11 Local Events page..........................................12 Local Parks and Activities ......................... 14

Sherrie Stone Graphic Designer

MISD: Magnolia Develops Leaders............16 The Birth of Jesus Christ...............................18 SISD: Continues to Persevere......................20 HISD: Fun Events For Your Family.............22 The Problem: Depression.............................24

Rebecca Goff

Sales and Marketing

Jesus is the Savior..........................................30 Much More Than A Song.............................32 Lessons from my mirror...............................34

Advertise with Us!

Contact us to reserve your ad in this publication.

On the Cover

The beautiful little cowgirl is Brylee. Her grandparents are Carl and Lisa Cox , Tammy Baker and Robert Smitherman from Milam County as well as grandmother Sheila Bankston, Lovelady and grandfather Larry Bankston who resides in the Porter area.

The couple in the snow are Justin and Rachael. Justin graduated from Kingwood High and Rachael is from Louisiana. They both reside in Dallas at the present.

The two loving brothers are Wrenly and Wryder. They are the grandsons of W.T. Wilkinson of Summerwood.

Pam and Tony Wiggs and Phyllis and Charlie Martin of Atascocita.

Find Us Online!

Kid-and-Kaboodle.com facebook.com/WholeKidAndKaboodle/

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Jerri Bankston 281-703-7742 jerri42@embarqmail.com

A TiMMark Publication

All publications of The Whole Kid and Kaboodle can be viewed on our website: kid-and-kaboodle.com

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.

and the thought came to me that we will all have our personal sunset one day. Maybe it will come while you are still alive on this earth “For the Lord himself will descend from heaven with a cry of command, with the voice of an archangel, and with the sound of the trumpet of God. And the dead in Christ will rise first.

Then we who are alive, who are left, will be caught up together with them in the clouds to meet the Lord in the air, and so we will always be with the Lord.” 1st Thessalonians 4:1617. Or, if the Lord tarries you may experience death of the body that your spirit presently dwells in. Either way, it will be a glorious reunion with our Savior. I love the words from this beautiful hymn “ What a day that will be when my Jesus I shall see. When I look upon His face, the one who saved me by His Grace and He takes me by the hand and leads me to the promised land, what a day, glorious day that will be.

JUST BE READY

Kid-and-Kaboodle.com 5

KIDS EAT FREE!

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.

Marsala’s Italian Grill

12 and under. Kids meal Only with purchase of adult entree.

Tuesdays, 3 – 10 PM. Atascocita - 5324 Atascocita Road, Atascocita, TX 77346

IHop Humble

Sunday-Saturday 4 – 10 PM

Jason’s Deli’s Tuesdays

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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

La Casita, Porter

Monday and Tuesday with purchase of adult meal

Hectors Mexican Restaurant Sundays and Tuesdays – 10 and under

Dickey’s Pit Barbeque Kingwood

Sundays

Danell Fields, Licensed Agent

MS C.C.C. CLMS CHMS ALBS ABR SRS TACS

Home and Lifestyle Contributor LocalMeA.com- The Best of Local “Dropping in with Danell” D e s i g n e d Re a l t y G ro u p C o m m e rc i a l D i v i s i o n Re s i d e n t i a l Re a l t o r 832-776-4407 25419 FM 2100 Huf fman, TX 77336 (832) 392-5644 (m) (281) 324-1300 (o) danellfields@gmail.com

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Magnolia

Story and Photographs by Bonnie McKenna

On the southernmost corner of the lush, green Piney Woods is one of the small towns that reflect the friendliness of Texas and welcomes visitors throughout the year, Magnolia.

The town was established in 1840 when Montgomery County extended its southern boundary to Spring Creek. Initially, the area was known as Mink. In 1908 the city was officially renamed, Magnolia. The commerce of the town revolved around several large sawmills, cotton, and farms.

The city grew along the route of the Northern Huntsville Railroad, and Magnolia became a shipping center for lumber, cattle, and farm products.

Things to Do: Unity Park is a 30-acre combination of a wildlife preserve and a municipal park. The Williams Pavilion hosts several annual events throughout the year and is available for private use. The Park also maintains a skateboard park, splash pad, tennis courts, and a playground for children. For birding enthusiasts, the Park has well-maintained pathways and lookout points for optimal viewing.

The Stroll is a popular half-mile, tree-shaded walking path in the heart of Magnolia’s Town Center. At the north end of the trail is the newly refurbished Sullivan Park and the Farmers Market. Every Saturday, 3050 vendors meet to sell local products and crafts. The Park hosts many community events throughout the year The Depot is Magnolia’s iconic link to its railroad history.

The Depot is a beautiful example of depot architecture in the glory days of train travel.

The interior of the main room displays exposed wooden trusses, plank flooring, and sliding freight doors. In 2005, due to Highway expansion, The Depot was moved to a new location directly across from the railroad tracks without compromising its historic integrity.

Members of the Magnolia Historical Society maintain and operate The Depot and sponsor the annual Halloween and Christmas events.

The Depot is also available for numerous civic and private parties.

Depot Day happens every year in April.

Vendors, craft booths, food, auctions, and entertainment make for a great time for residents and visitors alike to enjoy the friendliness of Magnolia.

The Annual Christmas Parade, the Hometown Christmas event, will be held this year, on December 4, at 5:30 p.m., there will be vendors, visits from Santa, and activities for children.

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Texas Renaissance Festival. Each year, Magnolia, the Official Host City, welcomes hundreds of thousands of visitors from around the world to the Texas Renaissance Festival.

The festival comes alive for nine themed weekends starting from October to November.

Put this on your calendar for 2022 and come early. The Texas Renaissance Festival opens at 9:00 a.m. with the boom from a cannon echoing through the trees. The King and Queen declare the festival open, and the visitors standing outside the gates yell out a mighty “Hazzah!” as they enter the magical kingdom. The festival closes with a fireworks display each night at 8:00 p.m.

The easiest route to Magnolia from the New Caney Splendora area is to take Texas 99 (Grand Parkway) to State Highway 249 until the Magnolia turn-off or from Porter or Kingwood take FM 1314 to 242. Follow 242 to 1488, go left and that will take you into Magnolia. Or if you are traveling from Humble or further south take Beltway 8 to 249 into Magnolia.

Magnolia is definitely a place that the entire family can enjoy.

Bonnie McKenna is the co-editor of Scuba H2O Adventure Magazine, focusing on travel and environmental issues. Her experiences include being a stringer and a travel photojournalist for Houston Community Newspapers, The Tribune, and The Houston Chronicle.

She has been traveling all of her life and likes to tell you “ I have often thought I was born in a car during a road trip.” After college, she joined the Peace Corps in Thailand as a parasitologist, lived in the highlands of Viet Nam, returned home, and became an international flight attendant for Continental/United Airlines.

As a retired flight attendant, she is still flying the world’s oceans, freelancing stories, and exploring the world with her cameras above and below the water. She is a member of the North American Travel Journalists Association, International Travel Writers & Photographers Alliance, and the Texas Photographic Society.

Bonnie is a pure delight and is sure to wake up your desire to “get on the road”

Our motto,

“Service Above Self” Our mission,

To be an integral part of the community.

Meetings held every Tuesday at noon at: Magnolia Event Center, 11659 FM 1488 in Magnolia.

Guests are always welcome to attend, no RSVP needed!

Guest speakers each week.

Learn more at https://www.magnoliarotaryclub.org

Kid-and-Kaboodle.com 9

Is fear attacking you or are you attacking your fear? by: Robert Stokes

We are seeing a growing number of people living in fear- a constant state of confusion about the present and anxiety about the future. But followers of Jesus have been equipped to combat those fears and commissioned to tell others about true and lasting peace. In a time of great fear and confusion, the Word of God offers us great hope!

People are fearful of what they do not understand and of what they cannot control. Confusion leads to anxiety, anxiety makes us feel helpless, and helplessness can lead to despair and fear. Fear is the most effective tool for an enemy to use- fearful people are easily distracted and controlled. The Bible tells us that the enemy of our souls comes “…only to steal, kill, and destroy…” (John 10:10). But if we keep reading, we find great hope: “I have come that they may have life, and have it more abundant.” Belief and trust in Jesus is the remedy to our fear.

“For God has not given us a spirit of fearfulness, but one of power, love, and sound judgment.” 2 Timothy 1:7 When we place our belief, hope, faith, and trust in Jesus, His Spirit comes to live in us. We are given everything we need for abundant life- free from fear and anxiety. Over and over again, the Word of God comforts us with reminders: not to worry (Matthew 6:25-27), not to be anxious (Philippians 4:6-7), not to fear (Isaiah 41:10). When the Bible tells us, “Do not fear,” it means we are not to allow anxiety or fretfulness to rule our lives or take root in our hearts.

We are not to be people of panic and anxiety- we are to be people of faith. The Biblical command do not fear does not negate the need for prudence and caution in this world. Believers can learn how to act in faith in order to recognize misplaced fear from rational fear. That’s where the promise of a “sound mind” and “sound judgment” comes in. When we are grounded in faith in God, we can lean into His Spirit especially in times of uncertainty. May we allow that God-given power over fear and His great love for us to become our focus. And may we encourage those around us with reminders of His love and provision.

Robert and his wife Kim have been a part of the Magnolia Cowboy Church ministry family for over four years now. Kim is the Women’s Ministry Coordinator. They have been married 39 years and have a daughter Brittany married to Dante, a second daughter Blake married to Jordan, a son Bryce, and one spoiled grandbaby, Avery. Their favorite vacation spot is on a beach almost anywhere. Robert will tell you that his salvation is the greatest gift he has been given and the verse that describes his ministry is I Corinthians 1:1-13. Kim loves turquoise, flamingos, and her time with Avery.

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¿El miedo te está atacando o estás atacando tu miedo? by: Robert Stokes

Estamos viendo un número creciente de personas que viven con miedo, un estado constante de confusión sobre el presente y ansiedad sobre el futuro.

Pero seguidores de Jesús ha sido equipado para combatir esos temores y comisionado para contar otros sobre la paz verdadera y duradera. En un momento de gran temor y confusión, ¡la Palabra de Dios nos ofrece una gran esperanza!

Las personas tienen miedo de lo que no entienden y de lo que no pueden. control. La confusión conduce a la ansiedad, la ansiedad nos hace sentir impotentes, y la impotencia puede llevar a la desesperación y el miedo. El miedo es la herramienta más efectiva para un enemigo para usar: las personas temerosas se distraen y controlan fácilmente. El La Biblia nos dice que el enemigo de nuestras almas viene “... solo para robar, matar y destruir ...” (Juan 10:10).

Pero si seguimos leyendo, encontramos una gran esperanza: “Tengo vengan para que tengan vida, y la tengan más abundante”.

Creencia y confianza en Jesús es el remedio a nuestro temor.

“Porque Dios no nos ha dado un espíritu de temor, sino uno de poder, amor y buen juicio”. 2 Timoteo 1:7 Cuando ponemos nuestra creencia, esperanza, fe y confianza en Jesús, Su Espíritu viene a vive en nosotros. Se nos da todo lo que necesitamos para una vida abundante, libre de miedo y ansiedad. Una y otra vez,la Palabra de Dios nos consuela con recordatorios: no preocuparse (Mateo 6:25-27), no estar ansioso (Filipenses) 4:6-7), no temer (Isaías 41:10).

Cuando la Biblia nos dice: “No temas”, significa que no debemos permitir que la ansiedad o la inquietud gobiernen nuestras vidas o echen raíces. en nuestros corazones. No debemos ser personas de pánico y ansiedad, debemos ser personas de fe. El mandamiento bíblico de no temer no niega la necesidad por prudencia y cautela en este mundo. Los creyentes pueden aprender a actuar con fe con el fin de reconocer el miedo fuera de lugar del miedo racional. Ahí es donde e la promesa de una “mente sana” y un “buen juicio” entra. Cuando somos Basados en la fe en Dios, podemos apoyarnos en Su Espíritu, especialmente en tiempos de incertidumbre. Que permitamos ese poder dado por Dios sobre el temor y Su gran amor para que nos convivamos en nuestro foco.

Y que podamos animar a los que nos rodean con recordatorios de Su amor y provisión.

Robert y su esposa Kim han sido parte de la familia del ministerio Magnolia Cowboy Church durante más de cuatro años. Kim es la Coordinadora del Ministerio de la Mujer. Han estado casados 39 años y tienen una hija Brittany casada con Dante, una segunda hija Blake casada con Jordan, un hijo Bryce y un nieto mimado, Avery.

Su lugar de vacaciones favorito está en una playa en casi cualquier lugar. Roberto te dirá que su salvación es el regalo más grande que se le ha dado y el versículo que describe su ministerio es I Corintios 1:1-13. A Kim le encanta el turquesa, los flamencos y su tiempo con Avery.

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EVENTS December 03

05 Sun, Dec 5th and Dec 19th, 11 AM – 3 PM Sweet Magnolia Pickins Year Round Farmers And Artisans Market 1st, 3rd and 5th Sundays, 11:00am - 3:00pm Location:18850 FM 1488, Magnolia, TX 77355 Corner of FM1488 and FM1774, Next to Walgreens

www.SweetMagnoliaPickins.net

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A Holiday to Remember Market Days FRIDAY, DECEMBER 10, 5 PM – 10 PM, New Caney,

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Christmas at Big rivers DECEMBER 3, 6 PM – 10 PM, New Caney

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Kingwood Holiday Market Sun, Dec. 12th 1 – 5 PM Town Ctr Pk, 8 N Main St

1st Annual Christmas Market Dec. 4th 4 – 11 PM 9768 Research Forest Dr. Magnolia

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JLC Polar Express Day 2021!!

Dec. 14th 9 AM – 12 PM Courageous Christian Academy, 21519 W Wallis Dr Porter

EVENTS 18

January 17

Family Christmas Play at Faith UMC of Spring Dec. 18th 5 – 6 PM

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Ghosts of Christmas Past Ghost Walk DECEMBER 18, 417 Gentry, Spring

28th Annual MLK Grande Parade Midtown Houston Mon, Jan. 17th 10 AM – 12 PM The Haven Community Church Dec 19, 11:30 AM – 2:00 PM 315 Gentry St, Spring,

The Magic of Christmas Christmas Parade of Lights Sat Dec. 4th 11:30 PM 19450 Unity Park Drive, Magnolia,

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February 1st - 4th

Christmas Day Worship Service Sat, 11 AM Lamb of God Lutheran Church Humble

30 Dog Gone Fun New Years Bash!

Dec 30, 2021 – Jan 3, 2022 26310 Dobbin-Huffsmith Rd Magnolia

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FRIDAY NIGHT LIGHTS Dec 31, 2021 – Jan 1, 2022 Speedsportz Racing Park, 23050 Speed St New Caney

Humble Livestock Show and Rodeo February 1st -4th

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The Drowsy Chaperone Crighton Theatre 234 N. Main St ConroeFeb 11 - 27

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LOCAL PARKS AND ACTIVITIES

Due to precautions related to Coronavirus (COVID-19), some Precinct 4 programs and activities may be curtailed, postponed, or canceled. Please check with the appropriate venues and sponsors before making plans.

Precinct 4 Parks

Spring Creek Park Offers free camping to the public, offers full hookup tent and RV campsites. Primitive camping is also available exclusively to nonprofit groups at Fritsche Park and Kickerillo-Mischer Preserve.

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 in a Precinct 4 Park 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.

Precinct 4 does not rent or sell canoes or kayaks, but offers free canoeing activities on a regular basis through Trails As Parks (TAP) events Fishing Fishing enthusiasts can experience many unique fishing opportunities year-round in Precinct 4, with access to fishing in Spring Creek, Cypress Creek, and stocked fishing lakes. Precinct 4 does not rent or sell fishing equipment, but offers free fishing activities on a regular basis through Trails As Parks (TAP) events.

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

BURROUGHS PARK, TOMBALL

Holiday Wonderland December 04, 4:00 pm-8:00 pm.

Fun for the entire family. Festive activities including snow, crafts, a petting zoo, holiday lights

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Nutcracker Under the Stars December 18 6:00 pm-8:00 pm Step into the magical world of The Nutcracker as Clara and the Nutcracker Prince battle the Mouse King and travel through enchanting lands.

JESSE H. JONES PARK & NATURE CENTER, HUMBLE

Tour De Jones Saturday, December 4, 9:00 AM to 12:00 PM Bring your bike to Jones Park! The first 150 kids can get fitted for a free helmet courtesy of Safe Kids of Greater Houston and Texas Children’s Hospital, and everyone gets a free bike tune up from Kingwood Bike Shop.. All ages. Helmets required. No reservations.

An Old-Fashioned Christmas Saturday, December 11, 3:00 PM to 6:00 PM Experience the traditions of earlier times as the homestead comes to life with 19th-century holiday customs. Enjoy music, a holiday craft, wassail, cookies, and an early visit from Saint Nicholas.

Reservations are not required.

Second Saturday Settlers: Blacksmithing Saturday, January 8, 1:00 PM to 3:00 PM Come watch blacksmiths transform raw metal into useful items and learn about Texas settler daily chores at the Redbud Hill Homestead. Reservations are required beginning December 30, 2021.

Pioneer Campfire Saturday, January 8, 5:00 PM to 6:00 PM Spend an evening around the campfire with acclaimed actress and storyteller Jean Donatto Reservations required beginning Wednesday December 29, 2021.

Catch Center Event Saturday, January 22, 8:30 AM to 2:00 PM All equipment is provided. Please bring a sack lunch. Ages 8+. Reservations required beginning Wednesday January 5, 2022.

Homestead Heritage Day Held annually the second Saturday of February.

The Redbud Hill Homestead comes alive with oldfashioned, hands-on activities for kids, period reenactments, and a bustling, filled-to-the-brim day complete with re-enactors, historians, and volunteers

HEATHER GARZA HG Tax & Financial Services 19506 Highway 59 N, STE 330 | Humble, TX 77338 Phone (281) 446-8002 | www.hgtaxservice.com

We do the Max to decrease your Tax!

SERVICES: Tax Preparation & Planning, Payroll Services, Bookkeeping, Financial Planning

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Superintendent Dr. Todd Stephens had the vision to create a unique learning opportunity for future leaders and develop a program for junior-level students to learn about government leadership and how to be leaders of their community. The Magnolia ISD Student Leadership Program was founded in 2012 and continues today to develop young leaders.

The district's commitment to this program fosters these young leaders to develop a passion for making a difference and how each one of them can make an impact in their community. The leadership program focuses on leadership development, the civic awareness of local, county, and state government processes, profit and nonprofit leadership, Fortune 500 business coach, and etiquette.

Their senior year focuses on a capstone project, which usually involved getting students and staff to register to vote along with a service day in Magnolia. MISD Serves Day is a district-wide community service project for students, staff, parents, and volunteers to come together and engage in numerous projects to meet the needs of our community.

U.S. Congressman Kevin Brady has been a part of this program and shared his story about the importance of giving back to the community. He stated, “If I can leave you with one piece of advice, it would be to be independent, be optimistic, have faith in God, and give back to the community in which you live.”

www.magnoliaisd.org

Dr. Todd Stephens has been with Magnolia Independent School District since 1999 and was named Superintendent in 2009. Prior to being named Superintendent, he served as the Assistant Superintendent of Magnolia ISD with responsibilities for the supervision of the District’s Curriculum and Instruction Department as well as Leadership Development within the District. Dr. Stephens has 39 years of experience in education, serving 22 of those years in Magnolia.

Dr. Stephens grew up in Temple, Texas, and was a product of the Temple Independent School District. Upon graduation from Temple High School, he attended Abilene Christian University where he earned a BS in Education.

He continued his education and earned a Master of Education Degree from Tarleton State University (TSU) in 1997. While at TSU, he served as a member of the initial cohort group of the New Century Educational Leadership Program (NCELP) at Tarleton State University.

In 2007, he received a Doctorate in Educational Leadership from Prairie View A&M University. During his postgraduate studies at Prairie View, he was a member of the first doctoral cohort in educational leadership at Prairie View A&M University.

Dr. Stephens and his wife, Becky, live in Magnolia and have been married since 1981. They attend Conroe Church of Christ. Becky is a retired teacher. They have two children, Sam (graduate of Sam Houston State University) and Holly (graduate of Texas Tech University).

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Area Champion Band • State Board of Education Student Hero • FFA Show • National Letters of Intent • Cheer State Champions • 24 IB Graduates • Superior Financial Accountability Rating • 17 College Board Recognitions • Curbside Meals • Football & Volleyball District Champions • Bond Refunding $28.5 Million • National Merit Scholars • 165 District AP Scholars • State Qualifying Cross Country • Area Champion Band • State Board of Education Student Hero • FFA Show • National Letters of Intent • Cheer State Champions • 24 IB Graduates • Superior Financial Accountability Rating • 17 College Board Recognitions • Curbside Meals • Football & Volleyball District Champions • Bond Refunding $28.5 Million • National Merit Scholars • 165 District AP Scholars • State Qualifying Cross Country • Area Champion Band • State Board of Education Student Hero • FFA Show • National Letters of Intent • Cheer State Champions • 24 IB Graduates • Superior Financial Accountability Rating • 17 College Board Recognitions • Curbside Meals • Football & Volleyball District Champions • Bond Refunding $28.5 Million • National Merit Scholars • 165 District AP Scholars • State Qualifying Cross Country • Area Champion Band • State Board of Education Student Hero • FFA Show • National Letters of Intent • Cheer State Champions • 24 IB Graduates • Superior Financial Accountability Rating • 17 College Board Recognitions • Curbside Meals • Football & Volleyball District Champions • Bond Refunding $28.5 Million • National Merit Scholars • 165 District AP Scholars • State Qualifying Cross Country • Area Champion Band • State Board of Education Student Hero • FFA Show • 17 College 17 College Board Recognitions • Cheer State Champions • 24 IB GraduFinancial Accountability Rating • 17 College Board gnitions • Curbside Meals • Football & Volleyball District Champions • Bond Refunding $28.5 Million • National Merit Scholars • 165 District AP Scholars • State Qualifying Cross Country • Area Champion Band • State Education Student • FFA Show • National Letters of Intent • Cheer State Champions • 24 IB Graduates • Superior Financial Accountability Rating • 17 College Board Recognitions • Curbside Meals • Football & Volleyball District Champions • Bond Refunding $28.5 Million • National Merit Scholars • 165 District AP Scholars • State Qualifying Cross Country • Area Champion Band • State Board of Education Student Hero • FFA Show • National Letters of Intent • Cheer State Champions • 24 IB Graduates • Superior Financial Accountability Rating • 17 College Board Recogni • Football & Volleyball District Champions • Bond Refunding $28.5 Million • National Merit Scholars • 165 District AP Scholars Area Champion Band • State Qualifying Cross Country • State Bof Education Student Hero • FFA Show • National Letters of Intent • Cheer State Champions • 24 IB Graduates • Superior Financial Accountability Rating • 17 College Board Recognitions • Curbside Meals • Football & Volleyball District Champions • Bond Refunding $28.5 Million • National Merit Scholars • 165 District AP Scholars • State Qualifying Cross Country • Area Champion Band • State Education Student Hero • Superior Financial Accountability Rating • Cheer State Champions • 24 IB Graduates • Superior Financial Accountability Rating • 17 College Board Recognitions • Curbside Meals • Football & Volleyball District Champions • Bond Refunding $28.5 Million • National Merit Scholars • 165 District AP Scholars • State Qualifying Cross Country • Area Champion Band • State Board of Education Student Hero • FFA Show • National Letters of Intent • Cheer State Champions • 24 IB Graduates • Superior Financial Accountability Rating • 17 College Board Recognitions • Curbside Meals • Football & Volleyball District Champions • Bond Refunding $28.5 Million • National Merit Scholars • 165 District AP Scholars • State Qualifying Cross Country • Area Champion Band • State Board of Education Student Hero • FFA Show • National Letters of Intent • Cheer State Champions • 24 IB Graduates • Superior Financial Accountability Rating • 17 College Board Recognitions • Curbside Meals • Football & Volleyball District Champions • Bond Refunding $28.5 Million • National Merit Scholars • 165 District AP Scholars • State Qualifying Cross Country • Area Champion Band • State Board of Education Student Hero • FFA Show • National Letters of Intent • Cheer State Champions • 24 IB Graduates • Superior Financial Accountability Rating • 17 College Board Recognitions • Curbside Meals • Football & Volleyball District Champions • Bond Refunding $28.5 Million • National Merit Scholars • 165 District AP Scholars • State Qualifying Cross Country

Dedicated to be the best District in the State of Texas.

MobileStageHouston.com Stage Rentals – 361-563-5501

Events, backyard parties, graduations, weddings, etc.

Come for the coffee.

Stay for the friendship HeBrews Coffee in Magnolia is a faith and family coffee company that offers ethically sourced, locally roasted, and fair trade coffee.

Coffee With a Purpose MON - FRI 7:30 AM - 2 PM SAT 8 AM - 1 PM Closed Sunday 33130 Magnolia Cir Suite B +1 (832) 642-0786 https://hebrewslocalcoffee.com/about-us/

Kid-and-Kaboodle.com 17

The Birth of Jesus Christ

Emi Lynn

Therefore the Lord himself will give you a sign: The virgin will conceive and give birth to a son, and will call him Emmanuel meaning “God with us” Isaiah 7:14

Mary, the mother of Jesus Christ was a teen-ager living in Nazareth, a city of Galilee. She was engaged to a man named Joseph and before they came together , the angel Gabriel was sent from God with a message for her. Gabriel came in unto Mary and said “Blessed are you among women, you are highly favored and the Lord is with you. Fear not, for you shall conceive and bring forth a son and you shall call him Jesus. He shall be great and shall be called the Son of the Highest.”

Mary said to the Angel, “How can this be since I know not a man” The angel answered, “The Holy Ghost will come upon you and God will overshadow you therefore the Son of God will be born of you.”

When Mary was found with child of the Holy Ghost, Joseph, being a just man and not willing to make her a public example, thought to put her away privily. While he was thinking on these things, the angel of the Lord appeared to him in a dream saying, “Fear not to take Mary for your wife for that which is conceived in her is of the Holy Ghost” So Joseph did as the angel had bidden him and took Mary for his wife.

In those days, everyone had to travel to his own city of birth to be taxed, so Joseph and Mary traveled to Bethlehem because he was of the house and lineage of David. While they were in Bethlehem, Mary brought forth her first born son, Jesus, and laid him in a manger because there was no room for them in the Inn. .At this time there were wise men from the east that came to Jerusalem inquiring “where is he that is born King of the Jews because we have seen His star in the east and have come to worship Him” When they departed, the star which they saw in the east, went before them until it came and stood over the baby, Jesus. When they saw the child with Mary, his mother, they fell down and worshipped Him. They opened their treasures and presented gifts of gold, frankincense, and myrrh.

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In the same country there were shepherds in the field, keeping watch over their flock. And suddenly the angel of the Lord came upon them and the glory of the Lord shone round about them and they were deeply afraid. The angel said unto them, “Fear not, I bring you good tidings of great joy, which shall be to all people. For unto you is born this day in the city of David, a Saviour which is Christ the Lord.” And suddenly there was with the angel a multitude of heavenly host praising God and saying Glory to God in the highest and on earth peace, good will toward men.

“For a child will be born unto us, a son will be given to us; And the government will rest on His shoulders; And His name will be called Wonderful, Counselor, The Mighty God, The Everlasting Father, The Prince of Peace.”

Isaiah 9:6

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Splendora ISD Continues to Persevere

Dr. Jeff Burke, Splendora ISD Superintendent

While the 2021-22 school year did not start as we anticipated, with the COVID-19 Delta variant disrupting our schools tremendously, I am proud of our staff, students, and community for weathering this crisis and persevering. We have completed our first nine weeks, and have seen tremendous success across our district, with many of our extra and co-curricular programs

earning awards and accolades or advancing to the playoffs. It is a true testament to the spirit of the Splendora ISD community that we pull together and do what is best for our students.

Our new Auto Paint and Body program, under the direction of Derek Dugger, is experiencing great success, and we are excited about the future of this program, and the future contributions of our students who are enrolled.

The next few years will be very exciting for our district, as we are experiencing tremendous growth, with approximately 9 different developments underway in Splendora ISD. This growth will require us to construct new campus facilities in the future, and over the next few months, we will begin our community committee process to help shape our next bond, slated for November of 2022. We are excited to welcome our new families to Splendora ISD, and we are thankful that so many are choosing Splendora ISD for their students’ school experience and for employment.

As Superintendent of Schools, I continue to remain honored to serve this school district and this community and look forward to what lies ahead. Although the growth will be challenging, it presents an opportunity for Splendora ISD to continue serving students, who will become the leaders of tomorrow, and it is our job to continue furthering our democracy. Public education always has been and remains the best avenue in which to do this. I am thankful for all the support provided by our community and county and look forward to sharing more of the exciting things happening in our wonderful district. We continue to cultivate exceptional people!

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Fun events for your family January 27 - February 5 There are many fun, exciting events and activities during the Humble Rodeo and BBQ Cook-Off Booths, Games, and Rides

BBQ Cook-Off Team Contest, Live Music, Vendor Booths, Family Activities, Auction of BBQ Pits Built by Humble ISD Students Humble ISD School Board and Administrators are among those who contributed funds to buy student animals at auction.

Ninety percent of the money from the sale goes back to the student to help fund their animal for next year, or toward their future plans after high school. Pictured above, from left, are Isabella Crawford and Jacob Martinez of Atascocita High School, Trustee Robert Sitton, Superintendent Dr. Elizabeth Fagen, former Trustee Lori Twomey, Sofi Hanania of Atascocita High School, Trustee Nancy Morrison and Planet Ford Community Relations Director Heather Elkin at the 2021 auction. Buyers contributed more than $260,000 to student animal projects in 2021.

www.humbleisd.net/livestockshow The 75th Humble Livestock Auction is dedicated to Lynette Calfee, a former Humble ISD teacher and assistant principal who helped open Atascocita Middle School. For years she helped with the rodeo and livestock show, even after her sons graduated. She was a member of the Stampede Association and was a founding member of the Education Foundation’s Rodeo and Cook-Off Committee.

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7 events co-sanctioned by the United Professional Rodeo Association and Cowboy’s Professional Rodeo Association with Live Concerts following the Rodeo The Humble Rodeo and the BBQ Cook-Off benefit the Humble ISD Education Foundation.

Visit www.humblerodeo.com for ticket information.

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The Problem: Depression.

The Solution: Jesus Christ.

by Dr. Alan Kitay Depression is the number one emotional disorder in America.

Broken, unhappy homes and waisted lives are many timers the result of unfettered depression.

Rising suicide rates, especially among the young, show the final end to which depression takes people. It is a condition marked by extended periods and feelings of dejection, rejection, or unmet expectations. This usually results in despondency, cessation of activity, hopelessness, and apathy. Mood swings are frequent and apathy prevalent.

Depression in the Bible: In the Bible there are four causes of depression: rejection, fear, powerlessness, and sin: Let’s look at some examples in the Bible.

Rejection (Gen. 4:3-7): 3] And in process of time it came to pass, that Cain brought of the fruit of the ground an offering unto the Lord. [4] And Abel, he also brought of the firstlings of his flock and of the fat thereof. And the Lord had respect unto Abel and to his offering: [5] But unto Cain and to his offering he had not respect. And Cain was very wroth, and his countenance fell. [6] And the Lord said unto Cain, Why art thou wroth? and why is thy countenance fallen? [7] If thou doest well, shalt thou not be accepted? and if thou doest not well, sin lieth at the door. And unto thee shall be his desire, and thou shalt rule over him.

Fear (1 Kings 19: 1 Ki: 19:2-4) [Jezebel, enraged that Elijah had ordered the death of her priests of Baal, threatened to put Elijah to death] …Then Jezebel sent a messenger unto Elijah, saying, So let the gods do to me, and more also, if I make not thy life as the life of one of them by to morrow about this time. [3] And when he saw that, he arose, and went for his life, and came to Beer-sheba, which belongeth to Judah, and left his servant there. [4] But he himself went a day’s journey into the wilderness, and came and sat down under a juniper tree: and he requested for himself that he might die; and said, It is enough; now, O Lord, take away my life; for I am not better than my fathers.

Powerlessness (Neh. 2:1-5) ) And it came to pass in the month Nisan, in the twentieth year of Artaxerxes the king, that wine was before him: and I took up the wine, and gave it unto the king.

Now I had not been beforetime sad in his presence. [2] Wherefore the king said unto me, Why is thy countenance sad, seeing thou art not sick? this is nothing else but sorrow of heart. Then I was very sore afraid, [3] And said unto the king, Let the king live for ever: why should not my countenance be sad, when the city, the place of my fathers’ sepulchres, lieth waste, and the gates thereof are consumed with fire? [4]Then the king said unto me, For what dost thou make request? So I prayed to the God of heaven. [5] And I said unto the king, If it please the king, and if thy servant have found favour in thy sight, that thou wouldest send me unto Judah, unto the city of my fathers’ sepulchres, that I may build it.

Sin (Psalm 38:1-4) A Psalm of David, to bring to remembrance. O Lord, rebuke me not in thy wrath: neither chasten me in thy hot displeasure. [2] For thine arrows stick fast in me, and thy hand presseth me sore. [3] There is no soundness in my flesh because of thine anger; neither is there any rest in my bones because of my sin. [4] For mine iniquities are gone over mine head: as an heavy burden they are too heavy for me.

The Good News: There are many instances where people suffered from depression in the Bible.

The scriptures expressing feelings of depression and anxiety contain very important Biblical wisdom, because they help us understand that this problem is not new to mankind. The only

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thing new is the means most often used to treat it; pills. The good news in the Bible teaching about depression is that there is hope for those overwhelmed by the issues of life. There is a different way of viewing calamity and/or the problems that sometimes consume us. There is a way out of the dungeon of depression.

What to Do: Do not put removal of Depression as your goal…rather make your goal the desire to please God and restore broken relationships. Here are some steps you can take: 1.

Identify the real problem and not the symptom 2.

Identify when the problem started 3.

Identify un-Biblical thoughts, words, or actions 4.

Refuse to withdraw into isolation 5.

Behave Biblically in spite of feelings 6.

Reflect on the events and see them from God’s perspective 7.

Pray and Praise God. 8.

Avoid self-pity and complaining.

9.

Understand your Hope and Standing in Christ 10.

Do daily tasks with renewed concentration 11.

Work out a specific plan to deal with the problems And remember, Jesus said, (John 14:18) “ I will not leave you comfortless: I will come to you. “

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Jim is Retiring Jim Carson, Vice President and Chief Operating Officer of the Greater Cleveland Chamber of Commerce announced he will be retiring in December of 2021. Under Jim’s tenure, and a very engaged, hard working boards of directors over the past six years, the Chamber has become a financially strong organization and a leader in the greater Cleveland area. Jim has held Chamber memberships, committee, and board positions in several Chambers over the years.

A native of New Jersey and a veteran of the U.S. Navy, Jim has been married to his wife Christina for over 55 years. He has two married sons and 4 granddaughters. Jim’s diverse business background helped develop his business acumen. Upon leaving the Navy he spent over five years in the Banking industry as Vice President and Branch Manager. Due to health issues of their youngest son, their family relocated to Tucson, Arizona. Jim began his sales career in the telephone-interconnect industry and other direct sales. He spent 25 years int the transportation industry including Armored Car, Courier, Air Freight, Hot Shot, and logistics distribution in positions of General Manager, Director of Safety, VP of Operations and VP of Marketing. He also has executive management, sales and financial experience in property management, computer software development, car washes, assisted living, fitness centers, advertising, food service and other retail. In addition to owning and/or managing several restaurants, Jim has consulted for new start-ups, acquisitions, and financially distressed companies.

Although Jim was born in New Jersey, he’s lived in Pennsylvania, New York, Rhode Island, Arizona, California, and Texas. He’s proud to say he’s lived in Texas longer than anywhere else.

Even though he’s not a native—he’s not bashful telling folks that “he’s here by choice!”

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LAKE HOUSTON AREA

LIBRARIES Atascocita Branch Library 19520 Pinehurst Trail Dr, Atascocita, TX 77346 Hours: Mon. 11a-8p / Tue. 1p-9p / 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: Mond 1p-7p / Tues 10a - 9p / Wed 10a - 7p Thurs 10a - 9p / Fri 1p - 6p / Sat 10a - 5p Phone: (832) 927-5500

Kingwood Branch Library 4400 Bens View Ln, Kingwood, TX 77339 Hours: Monday, 1pm-9pm / Tues.10am-6pm / Wed. 10am-9pm Thurs. 10am-9pm / Fri, 10am-6pm / Sat. 10am-5pm Phone: (832) 927-7830 http://www.hcpl.net/location/kingwood-branch-library

In accordance with Harris County's efforts to stop the spread of the Coronavirus, all Harris County Public Library branches will remain closed to the public at this time.

Contactless Curbside Holds Pick-up is available at all HCPL locations 28 Kid-and-Kaboodle.com

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Jesus is the Saviour of the Whole World

by: Deborah Elum, Author & Speaker

I thought to myself, I don’t believe that they are still out of my favorite tomato juice and olive oil brand. This is the third week in a row. Once again, the grocery store was experiencing a shortage of some of my favorite items.

Shortages are affecting almost every area of our lives. There are shortages of police officers, truck and bus drivers, teachers, and even nurses. Shortages are not just impacting us in our own communities. It is a worldwide problem.

In Luke 2:13-14, the Bible shares how Jesus was born to help a world filled with shortages. “And suddenly there was with the angel a multitude of the heavenly host praising God, and saying, Glory to God in the highest, and on earth peace, good will toward men.”

In Jesus, there is an abundance of joy, peace, love, hope, and provisions. On one occasion, after He blessed five loaves of bread and two fish, Jesus fed over five thousand men, besides women and children. A woman suffering from hemorrhages for twelve years touched the hem of His garment, and she was immediately healed.

Jesus forgave another woman of her sins and told her to go and sin no more.

As we celebrate Jesus’ birth and the New Year, we thank God who sent Jesus, the Saviour of the world, who can solve the world’s problems.

“For unto us a child is born, unto us a son is given: and the government shall be upon his shoulder: and his name shall be called Wonderful, Counselor, The mighty God, The everlasting Father, The Prince of Peace.” Isaiah 9:6 Listen to Deborah’s Podcast at: https://redcircle.com/shows/changing-your-life-with-the-word

Children will love this charming rhyme and humorous read-aloud picture book! When Miss McDoogle gets ready for bed, she wiggles her toes and nods her head. Kids will giggle along with this perfect read-aloud story of the quirky Miss McDoogle and her cat, Jingles. Available at Amazon.com. Paperback 30 Kid-and-Kaboodle.com

You never know what Mommy will do next especially when she is behind the wheel! Slow Down Mommy is a picture book filled with hilarious fun as readers go on a wild ride with crazy twists and turns. Available at Walmart.com, Amazon.com, and BarnesandNoble.com.

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“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 and what was important than 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 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

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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 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 through the week at Starbucks in Kingwood Texas.

One morning Sam handed me an envelope and said take it with you. My wife wrote the words.

Can you put it to music? 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 48 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” was different than most of my songs. 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 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 such notables as 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 songs being played in 17 countries and Japanese TV and another that’s the theme song for a group called Women In Trucking that airs on SirusXM Radio. He has many radio commercials as well.

This article and the song, “A Special Child” is a tribute to ALL special needs kids.

Kid-and-Kaboodle.com 33

With Changing Seasons Comes New Beginnings Recently, our granddaughter’s high school agriculture class was studying the aging of trees. She asked Noble to bring home a cross section of a tree, or “tree cookie” from one of his land clearing projects for her class. Of course, for his granddaughter, he took the time to find several for her. She sent us a picture of her classmates enjoying the hands-on experience of counting the rings to find each tree’s age.

They learned that each year a tree forms new cells, arranged in circles called annual growth rings.

These rings show the amount of wood produced during one growing season. These rings can tell us how old the tree is, and what the weather was like during each year of the tree’s life.

Many factors affect the way a tree grows. Drought, excessive rain, fire, insects, lack of sunlight, all leave their mark on a tree’s annual growth rings. Life can be hard for a tree and for us at times.

Perhaps you’re going through a painful or lonely season right now.

Recognize that it is a season, that it is where God has you right now, and that God wants to use everything in this season to keep you moving toward His purpose for your life.

When you have difficult seasons, think of the trees. When the temperature begins to drop, while the tree is not showing growth and looks dead above ground, the roots are hard at work, preparing for the springtime. While its dormant, roots still seek out and soak up water and tend to extend further, creating a better, stronger base. This means that every winter, its trunk is growing thicker and stronger to support the tree when it flushes again in spring. Every time a change occurs in your life, you are embarking on a journey of new growth.

Rev. Robert Schuller said, “Never cut a tree down in the wintertime.” Meaning to never make a negative decision in the low time in your life. It may just be one of your growing seasons. Just as winter gives way to spring, there are better days ahead. Be your best as you go through it, and you will get to where you want to be.

Like the growth rings on a tree, everyone has a story. It could be a story of dreams, friendship, hope, survival or even death. And every story is worth telling. But more than that, it’s worth living. Step into the New Year with the intention of appreciating all the goodness around you. Make changes in your life, move forward, and keep growing.

And he shall be like a tree planted by the rivers of water, that bringeth forth his fruit in his season. - Psalms 1:3 Paula Enloe is a wife, mother, and grandmother. She has been a paralegal for over 25 years and is a certified family mediator. She and her husband, Noble, speak and minister to churches testifying of how God brought them healing into their home and their marriage, after he was diagnosed with Stage IV Non-Hodgkin’s Lymphoma in 2016. They count it as their greatest privilege to share the healing and transformational power of the Name of Jesus to each person they come in contact with daily.

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CAUTION

COLD WEATHER AHEAD

Ainsley Grace, granddaughter of Diane Self Bullock.