The Journey

MARCH 2019

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HOM E T OU R | I N T H E K I T C H E N | W I SD OM F ROM T H E WOR D | AG G I E

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FIRST DAY OF SPRING Spring officially begins with the Spring Equinox. Enjoy the increasing sunlight hours with earlier dawns and later sunsets.

Time for baseball, gardening, warmer temperatures and sun.

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THE ALAMO AT THE PINES THEATER The Daughters of the Republic of Texas Chapter will be showing the classic movie “The Alamo” at The Pines Theater on March 2, Texas Independence Day. All proceeds go to the DRT scholarship fund benefitting graduating seniors.

Show begins at 7pm and tickets are $5. To purchase, please call 936-366-0298.

ASH WEDNESDAY Each year, Ash Wednesday marks the beginning of Lent and is always 46 days before Easter Sunday. Lent is a 40-day season (not counting Sundays) marked by repentance, fasting, reflection, and celebration. The 40-days represents Christ’s time of temptation in the wilderness, where he fasted and where Satan tempted him. Lent asks believers to set aside a time each year for similar fasting, marking an intentional season of focus on Christ’s life, ministry, sacrifice, and resurrection.

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DAYLIGHT SAVINGS TIME Spring Forward! While we may lose an hour of sleep, we gain an extra hour of sunlight for our day. Go make it a great day knowing warmer temperatures are almost here!

ST. PATRICK'S DAY Saint Patrick's Day is held in honor of Saint Patrick, the missionary who brought Christianity to the Irish people in the 400's AD. Did you know that over 34 million Americans are of Irish descent? That's almost nine times the population of Ireland!

THE MOSAIC CENTER HEARTS FOR HOPE DINNER & AUCTION The Mosaic Center will host their annual Hearts for Hope Dinner and Fundraiser on Tuesday, March 26, at the Pitser Garrison Convention Center located in downtown Luf kin. Come enjoy an evening of great food and entertainment while supporting The Mosaic Center of Luf kin, an education center that provides a hand up, not a hand out to the women of Angelina County. For more information call (936) 6395068 or visit our website mosaiccenter.org.

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Corner of Loop 287 and HWY 59 South | 936.637.2848

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a l e t te r fro m th e

E DI T OR Who doesn’t love spring? The f lowers are starting to bloom, the days are getting longer, and there are little teasers of the warmer weather that will soon be here to stay. I think it’s easy to just quickly appreciate the changes and keep on marching through the year. However, I want to be intentional about enjoying every transition of the year…even if it means taking an entire afternoon just to walk in an open f ield and notice each little thing around me.

I know I’ve said this often, but it’s so true – I think there are very specif ic lessons God intended us to learn through the changing of the seasons. But in order to grasp them all, we must be still and pay attention to the world around us.

This year, don’t miss it. Don’t miss watching those beautiful f lowers go from bud to bloom.

Don’t skip by the caterpillar just to admire the butterf ly. Pause and appreciate the transition; learn from it. Then take a minute to share those lessons with someone else. May we all enjoy each day to the fullest this spring!

All

the Way Home,

Beth

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CONT food & design

family

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HOME TOUR

GA N DY NOT E S

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IN THE KITCHEN

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L E T ' S C E L E BR AT E

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TIPS

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REAL LIFE

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E NTS community

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2 0 QUE STIONS

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SPOTLIGHT

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W I SD OM F ROM T H E WOR D

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WO ODL A N D H EIGH T S

OUTDOOR EVENTS

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E AT OU T D O OR S

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THE

magazine 'n a t u r e b a s e d l ife'

The Journey Magazine is available free of charge each month per reader. Mail service of The Journey Magazine may be purchased for $15 for 12 issues. Mail check to: The Journey Magazine, P.O. Box 150351, Luf kin, TX, 75915, or contact kogden@luf kinjourneymagazine.com.

OWNER & DIRECTOR: Kim Ogden kogden@lufkinjourneymagazine.com MANAGING EDITOR: Beth Johnson beth@lufkinjourneymagazine.com L AY O U T & A DV E RT I S I N G D E S I G N : Kelly Hudman kkhudman@yahoo.com F E A T U R E S P H O T O G R A P H Y: Lisa Crow CONTRIBUTORS: Emily Courtney/Nature's Eye Erin Cuccio Chris DeVore Amber Floyd Angela Gandy Javier Huerta Britany Vinson/Tomé Catering C O N TAC T U S : Mailing: P.O. Box 150351 Physical: 106 E. Lufkin Avenue Lufkin, Texas 75901 936-366-5463 Online: facebook.com/thejourneymagazine instagram.com/thejourneymagazine www.lufkinjourneymagazine.com

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a l e t te r fro m th e

OW N E R “Mommy.”

The sound of that word jolted me from my sleep at 3am. I rolled over and came face to face with the shadow of my eight-year-old standing next to my bed.

“What’s wrong Bug?” “I’m seeing things, but I’m not dreaming. I’m wideawake.”

“Baby, you’re just having bad dreams, it’s okay. Go back to sleep.”

“I can’t mom, I’m scared. Will you come scratch my back while I go to sleep?”

I whispered to the little negotiator that of course I would, and reluctantly pushed the covers away and quietly followed him back to his room. He climbed into his bed all the while explaining his dream to me and how there wasn’t any chance he could fall back asleep.

“Man I’m glad you’re in here Mom.” “Me too Bug,” I whispered. “Me too.”

The truth is, I wasn’t. I was groggy, yawning, my mind wandering through the next day’s to-do list. I felt sure I would be awake now until my alarm went off and I’d have to SPARK multiple times throughout the day to stay focused. I was internally griping.

“Mom?” “Yes baby?”

“I love you. Thanks.”

And with that, he was out like a light. I stood there scratching his little back, listening to his breathing slow and feeling his body relax into the sheets. I realized right then that this was a moment I would miss one day. One night will be the last night he comes to me when he’s scared. One day will be the last day he asks to hold my hand. One day will be the last moment he calls me mommy. One day that sweet child will be a full-grown man who will have a family of his own to take care of. One day this child will be no more.

I stood there in the dark just a bit longer grateful that “one day” wasn’t here yet. One day was still a day away for both of us. For now, he still needed me. For now, I’m still the comfort he seeks. One day can wait… I’ve got more back scratching to do.

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H OM E T O U R | I N T H E K I T C H E N | L E T ' S C E L E B R AT E | T I P S & T R I C K S

F O O D & D E S I G N

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L AC E Y & BL A K E

M A RT I N welcome us home

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P hoto C r ed it - LISA CROW March2019.indd 13

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T O U R

I’ve always been inspired by the “farmhouse” style although that word really irks me; something so

timeless shouldn’t have a label. Things with labels

tend to fade, and I pray this timeless look never will!

I think back to my family’s old farm: the gables,

the shutters, the old wood f loors, shiplap and all of the land to run around on. I want that for my kids.

Those are some of the best memories I’ve ever had.

I’d be lying if I said Joanna Gaines didn’t inspire me. I love that she has built such an empire with something that’s been around forever. She just took the gem and polished it up a bit. When I was diagnosed with cancer, I’d be down from

treatment and wouldn’t have the energy to do much of anything. I would occupy my time with “Fixer Upper” during the day until the kids got out of school. It was my medicine! The minimal approach of our home def initely stemmed from her clean style.

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I’ve always anticipated the day that I could host holidays for my family and parties for our kids and their friends and kept that in mind when designing the space. Our favorite room would have to be the dining room. No matter the size of the house we’ve lived in, we always ate there and always will. It’s a place to disconnect from the outside and connect with each other at the end of the day. We pray, eat, and then make it back up to look like no one ever touched it!

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T O U R

I love the warmth that brick offers to the interior of a home, so I added a full gabled white washed brick wall in the kitchen as well as on the f ireplace at the opposite end of the room. A part of me loves the industrial style, so I feel like it gave me my f ix when paired with the brass picture lights. The brick we used is Acme Brick: Safford.

The beams throughout the house are my best-kept secret that I’m actually pretty proud of, so I will share! THEY’RE FAUX! Faux beams are cost eff icient and easier to handle for whoever is installing them. They come in various styles (mine of which are “handhewn”) and can be stained. Maddux Lumber here in Luf kin found these for me.

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We do get to experience a bit of the

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wilderness with deer, hogs and the

T O U R

occasional pesky possum. We also get some surprise visits on our pond from the ducks that pass through. We currently have a pet pig, Millie Pie Martin, two rabbits, two cats, Dolly Martin the dachshund and lots of land for any future animals!

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This house is a dream come true for us. I took pride in the design of this home because it was OURS. The whole property is something we set a goal for 10 years ago and with a lot of work, praying and dedication, WE EARNED IT. The house could burn down tomorrow, but the fact that we were blessed enough to be able to do something like this is pretty cool to us. God is good!

Protecting them is a big decision...

Go with Texas’s biggest broker.

59 South • higginbotham.net • 936-634-2291 March2019.indd 19

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T H E

K I T C H E N

FRUIT Pizza > CRUST INGREDIENTS 1/2 cup sugar 1/2 cup butter 1 egg yolk 1 tsp vanilla 1 cup of flour

ORANGE Julius > INGREDIENTS 6oz can of frozen orange juice 1 cup of milk 1 cup of water ½ cup sugar 1 tsp. vanilla Ice Cubes

DIRECTIONS Combine, juice, milk, water, sugar, and vanilla in blender containers.

Start adding ice cubes and continue until mixture is slushy.

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FROSTING LAYER 8 oz package cream cheese 1 cup powdered sugar

FRUIT IDEAS Apples Bananas Blueberries Grapes Kiwi Fruit Mango chunks Peaches Raspberries Strawberries

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BAKING INSTRUCTIONS For crust, cream butter and sugar together.

Mix in eggs and vanilla and beat well.

Form dough into a large ball and wrap in plastic wrap.

Refrigerate for 1 hour.

With a rolling pin, roll dough out in a large circle and gently place on a pizza pan or stone sprayed with non-stick cooking spray or greased. You can also use your hands to press the dough evenly on the pizza pan or stone.

Bake at 375 degrees for 12-15 minutes. Pull out of the oven when the edges and top start to lightly brown.

Let cool completely.

FROSTING TIME! Mix cream cheese and powdered sugar together until smooth. If you want a sweeter frosting, you can add more powdered sugar.

Spread on cooled sugar cookie crust.

Wash and slice fruit and decorate away!

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QUICHE Your Way > INGREDIENTS 10-inch pie crust 10 eggs whisked 1 cup of heavy cream Salt & pepper or other seasoning to taste

FILLING IDEAS: Cheese Bell pepper Onions Tomatoes Spinach Bacon Sausage Jalapenos

DIRECTIONS Preheat oven to 350°.

Mix eggs, cream, and all filling ingredients together.

Pour into pie crust.

Put in oven for about 30-45 minutes or until eggs are cooked through & pie crust is firm.

Top with shredded cheese.

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TWISTED Pasta Salad INGREDIENTS 1 pound of tri-colored spiral pasta 16oz bottle of zesty Italian dressing 2 cups of sliced cherry tomatoes 1 cup diced cucumbers 1 cup sliced sweet peppers 1 cup of blanched & diced asparagus 1 cup of shredded carrots Optional: small cooked shrimp

DIRECTIONS Cook pasta in a pot of salted boiling water until al dente. Rinse under cold water and drain.

Combine pasta & prepared vegetables in a bowl. Once together, pour salad dressing over pasta mixture.

Toss everything together & refrigerate overnight.

"I know the plans I have for you, for good and not for evil, to give you a future and a hope. " Jeremiah 29:11. "My only power and success comes from God." 2 Corinthians 3:5.

Chef Britany Vinson, founder of TomĂŠ Catering, has stood on those scriptures for the past 14 years. Through TomĂŠ, Britany strives to fulfill her purpose by adding a twist to ordinary foods, making special days extraordinary, and positively impacting lives for the sake of Jesus Christ.

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C E L E B R A T E

B g n i r r e p a k S e t a r b e l e LUFKIN, TE X AS C SPRING BREAK AT THE MUSEUM OF EAST TEXAS Join the MET staff for a week of fun! Ages 5 and up are invited to attend Spring Break at the MET – a week of learning about various artists, walking through art history and creating new, fun art projects everyday. This is a FREE event for

all in attendance. Children 12 and under must be accompanied by an adult, 13

and up may attend with no parent. Mon-Fri, 10am to 4pm, Sat-Sun 1pm to 4pm.

Please call the Museum of East Texas for more information at (936) 639 – 4434.

ELLEN TROUT ZOO Lions, tigers and bears oh my! With over 800 animals to observe, the Ellen Trout Zoo provides the perfect setting for an outdoor family adventure. Open every day

of the week from 9am to 5pm and budget friendly, the zoo offers other activities as well including fishing in Ellen Trout Lake (fishing license required), a train

ride on the Z&OO Railroad ($2 cash per person required, no cards accepted),

trail walking, playgrounds, a covered pavilion and eagle watching. A gift shop is located inside the zoo complete with drinks and snacks for everyone.

BOYS & GIRLS CLUB OF LUFKIN Get your swim on! The Boys & Girls club of Lufkin will have their facility open 8am to 5pm (1st Grade through 12th Grade) during March 11th-15th. The cost

per child for the week is $20 check/money order (MEMBERS' RATE) or $30 check/ money order, per child (NON-MEMBERS). Kids attending the Spring Break camp will receive breakfast, lunch and will have the opportunity for concessions in the afternoon.

Please call the B&G Club for more information at (936) 632 – 3301.

NARANJO MUSEUM OF NATURAL HISTORY A DINO-mite adventure awaits Spring Breakers at the Naranjo Museum of Natural History in Lufkin! From March 11th to the 15th, the museum will host

a variety of Spring Break activities such as slime making, storybook reading, crafts, hands-on projects and more! For a complete list of daily dino adventures, please visit the museum on the website, www.naranjomuseum.org, on their

Facebook page, or call them at (936) 639 – 3466.

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KURTH MEMORIAL LIBRARY The Kurth Memorial Library will be hosting Spring Breakers during their

Spring Break Programming, beginning Friday, March 8th through the afternoon of Friday, March 15th. Their week’s activities include: MOVIES

CRAFTING

3/8

The Bee Movie (2pm)

3/11

Inside Out (2pm)

“Can I Join Your Club?”

Quacking (11am)

3/12

Monsters Inc. (2pm)

“A Perfect Day” Lemonade Craft (11am)

3/13

Hotel for Dogs (2pm)

“Creepy Pair of Underwear!”

Paper Underwear Craft (11am)

3/14

Emperor's New Groove

“The Bad Seed” Bird Feeder Craft (11am)

3/15

Wreck-it-Ralph

“Dragons Love Tacos” Paper Plate Taco Craft (11am)

For more information & questions, please call the library information desk at (936) 630-0566.

OTHER THINGS TO DO:

Walk/bike the Azalea Trail

Visit our local movie theaters Cinemark 12

Lufkin Mall 9

Lufkin Parks

Chambers Park

Grace Dunne Richardson Kiwanis Park Jones Park Herty

Kit McConnico

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f I’d rather be phishing Written By: JAVIER HORTA

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With all the technology we are surrounded by daily, it is very easy to get tricked into a scam. Email, text, phone, click here, click there... it never stops. I find it fitting with this being a nature magazine that we write an article on fishing.

Just kidding. I meant phishing with a “p-h”.

Phishing is defined as “the fraudulent practice of sending emails purporting to be from reputable companies in order to induce individuals to reveal personal information, such as passwords and credit card numbers.”

Be very careful with your email! With all the junk we receive, it is very easy to be distracted and just start clicking. When you receive an email from Amazon or Chase Bank - just as an example - make sure that it is from a legitimate email address. Always look at the details of the email address. Typically, they will look real except for a small difference EX AMPLESaler t @chase824.com amazon_securit y@hotmail.com If the email were truly from Chase, it would not have the number 824 in the address. Amazon is more sophisticated than to use their Hotmail account! Delete, delete, delete! These large companies do not use free email services (Hotmail or Gmail or Yahoo Mail) to communicate important information to you, the customer.

If you do happen to get distracted and click on the email or a link in the email, it’s not the end of the world. Again, this link will usually lead to a website that will look official but the address in your web browser will have some differentiations of the actual website. This website will ask you for your login and password. At this point, STOP! Once you enter your password, the scam artists can access your information and cause major chaos in your life.

Javier is a loving husband, an optimistic father and a grateful son of God and his parents. He has been accused of having too much energy, smiling entirely too much and being too passionate of his Fighting Texas Aggies – Class of 2000.

He spends his time helping people troubleshoot computers, copiers and printers as the owner of Innovative Office Systems.

Feel free to reach him at jhorta@ ioslufkin.com or 936-633-6550.

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There are millions of these email attacks happening daily. Now even in your most comfortable settings is when you must be the most careful. Our phones are small computers with tons of personal information and with text messages that are also phishing, it creates a dangerous situation. My wife has had several messages from Chase telling her that her card is suspended and to call an 800 number. Do not give out any information. Always call the 800 number on your account or credit card, never call the one on your text or email. It may take a few extra minutes to verify what is going on, but those few minutes are much less of a burden then the months of headaches it could cause.

Be careful out on the internet and use the advice above to avoid any “phishing” accidents.

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Visual Arts Studio

Students who study art are

4x

MORE LIKELY to be recognized for

academic achievement

While studying vocabulary, artist techniques, and art history, students are receiving the many benefits of art education including: • • • • • • • •

motor development language and social development improved decision making and self-worth visual learning problem solving critical thinking advancing creativity and inventiveness increased cultural awareness and world interpretation

Art projects are displayed throughout the year in our Art Gallery as well as during our STEAM Showcase.

Enroll now for the 2019-20 school year.

Grades Pre-K3 through 8th. Private tours available.

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(936) 632-1720 1115 South John Redditt Lufkin, Texas 75904 For the latest school news: Visit saintcyprians.org Follow us on Facebook

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GA N DY NO T E S | K I D S ' COR N E R | R E A L LI F E

FA M I LY

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THESE ARE THE DAYS

Written by -

ANGELA GANDY

I read a recent post on Facebook of a mom who went from excitement about waking her kids up each day to exhaustion by bedtime and every emotion in between. I can relate to her so much. In fact, judging from the shares on my Facebook feed, I have a lot of friends who can relate too! Tired Grandma, Overachieving Mom, Coach Dad, Life-saving Aunt, Fun Sister, Devoted Teacher, and anyone else who participates in a child's life, this one is for you.

BRAND NEW

Congratulations! You have a new bundle of joy around! Have you realized yet the double meaning in bundle? They are a tiny bundle, but you spend a bundle (or should I say several bundles) of money on them! I know you're being hit from every angle with parenting advice, mom-shaming, “Here, let me show you what to do in this situation” advice, so I'm doing the opposite here. I don't want to give you advice. Rather, I want to give you permission. It is OKAY to stop and breathe. It is OKAY to have a date night. It is OKAY to not make your baby food. It is OKAY to nurse, or not. It is OKAY to use regular diapers, or cloth. It is GOOD to be okay. You'll never be perfect. Welcome to parenthood.

Terrible 2s… 3s… 4s…

“You won't believe what my baby boy did today!”

“I'm sure it was something cute, because he only does adorable things!”

“No. He smeared poop on the wall.”

Does that sound crazy to you? If it does, stop reading now. I think this should serve as your birth control for the month. If it doesn't, know that I am raising a glass to you right now! You, brave warrior, are the real MVP. We potty train children! Make a superhero movie about that. But besides that, we also wean kids from pacifiers, teach them to eat on their own, train them to dress themselves, match their shoes, learn their names, act right in daycare… the list goes on. Again, I'm not here to offer up unwanted advice, but to allow you to feel normal in that you'll never have this whole parenting thing figured out. And at some point during this phase, you think you do, but then you get the poop conversation. (Reread it for effect - it works as well the second time, if not better than the first.)

God Bless a Primary Teacher Years

Can we say a quick “Amen” for all the Pre-K, Kindergarten, 1st, and 2nd grade teachers? Everyone should watch these angels in action for a few hours. Just go eat lunch with your kids, or go to their next class party. I am amazed at how they teach these tiny humans how to be responsible, write their names, count, learn the alphabet, walk in a line, be nice to friends, share, spell, learn math facts, do science experiments, memorize the pledge of allegiance and national anthem. Was that list long and exhausting? Now you know how your child's day is at school.

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COMING OF AGE

B. O. Body hair.

Pimples… oh my! Working at a middle school campus gives me an entirely different perspective than I used to have on this. Although my own children haven't made it here yet, I can share a lot of stories from my 7th grade classroom. The smells, get a Scentsy. The hormones, teach them how to deal. The laziness, tell them success isn't free. The opposite sex, make them wait. The academics, stress the importance.

The sports, support them. These years are critical. May the odds be ever in your favor (and the wine be ever stocked)!

“CLASS OF…”

As soon as your baby makes it to their freshman year of high school, the countdown will commence. You remember the feeling...looking up to the sophomore class, wishing you were driving too. Then, wishing you could attend junior/senior prom. And finally, spending every day wishing it was your last “last” of senior year… only to countdown to the days, minutes, and hours left in the only place you've known as school for the last 12 years. If advice is what you want from this section, I have none. I do, however, want to cover you and your family in prayer as you start to let go of your pride and joy as they enter the world.

FOREVER MY BABY YOU'LL BE

You did it. You raised a self-sufficient adult. 18 years went by in a flash.

How did you do it? What was your secret? Does it matter now that you you planned every party on Pinterest? Do you wish you could go back and dress your kids in only brand name clothes? I hope these questions pale in comparison to the questions you're probably facing now on FAFSA applications, student housing, and out-of-state tuition. Don't blink, or the next eighteen years will go by just as fast as the first.

Angela is a multi-tasking wife and mother of two boys who keep her on her toes. She loves a good story and enjoys writing.

The days are long, but the years are short for those raising our future leaders. Give us a break when we look like crap from not showering for 36 hours or when we just got yelled at by a raging 13-year old. We're human, and we all need a little love and a whole lotta Jesus.

Xoxo,

Angela

You can contact her at angelagandy@gmail.com.

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ELSE E V E RY T H I N G p l a ces & fa ces |

R E T T E B E M I T Y M MANAGING Wr itte n by - KR IS

BA LL

s e i t i r o i r P My - God - Family - Health

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In nce 5. ma is o for per d Lu ke wh boys, Brett who is 7 an yea rs. They have two chi ng t-b all . coa d an ng nti mi ng , hu spa re time, he enjoys far

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star ted to peak out in March already. The sun has It’s hard to believe that we are the cold nights. day in bet ween the rain and m war nal asio occ an is re and the ht, then twelve hours It can be in the 20’s one nig Our weather here is so funny. for any thing. I shining. I wouldn’t trade it sun the h wit s 60’ the in it’s later the idea of Spring ther that comes with it. I love love Eas t Texas and the wea I love the holidays rnoons back. So, as much as afte my ting get and g chin approa almost in the rearview mirror. and winter, I’m glad they are er day. How another ut jus t that ver y thing the oth Leslie and I were talking abo to the most about the t we are looking forward winter has passed and wha vacation plans galore. ed about resolutions and upcoming months. We talk s until summer. ool, counting down the day How we leaped back into sch e more active, maybe tion that I wanted to becom I had this New Year’s resolu pas t December and ing. I mean, I turned 39 this star t working out or someth cult! I dug some old has never been more diffi keeping this boyish figure s. I star ted watching threw them around a few day weight s out of the barn and to one of the fitness had a friend invite me up n eve I in. aga ke inta b my car it. It felt good being enough to join. I did enjoy centers to see if I liked it t all of this was a ouraged it also. She though enc e wif My ve! acti the st among t this might jus t be a t joining the gym for fear tha great idea. I decided agains e a gym membership. . I mean, it takes time to hav ugh thro ng goi was I se pha k, what’s the point in or so, three to five times a wee If you can’t devote the hour having a membership? . She asked, “What on bet ween Leslie and I was sati ver con the re whe t’s tha So don’t think I’d have the that gym?” I replied, “I jus t did you decide about joining in the fire of life. Brett I already had so many irons nt. poi d vali a de ma I e.” tim nth and I’d have two ketball season. Another mo was right in the middle of bas to work and jus t being eball, not to mention going bas gue lea e littl g yin pla s boy g out was going to fall t of the week. I guess workin a Dad and a husband the res enough time. eduling and there not being by the wayside, a victim of sch all woke up about ten mal until one morning we nor as ed tinu con k wee The in everything we did was chaotic. We were rushed minutes late. The morning wing our boots on and to brushing our teeth, thro , ast akf bre our ing eat from way to Dunbar, I realized fway around the loop on my driving to school. About hal g, I had neglected to In all the rush of that mornin . ing eth som n otte forg I had pray.

rning. Then I quietly pull k that I like to read each mo I have a daily reflection boo minutes. Leslie has ppear from this world for a few disa and t shu r doo et clos the face and hands on the t I kneel beside, res ting my a foot stool in the closet tha pray for His will, not God’s guidance in my day and for ask I n whe t’s Tha p. ste t firs t morning that I forgot on the way to drop Brett off tha mine, to be done. I realized

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ELSE E V E RY T H I N G p l a ces & fa ces |

an m f o t r a e h e h 't

ut b , y a w s i h s n a pl

s e h s i l b a st e d r the Lo his steps.'

P roverbs

16:9

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morning.” That was the “I jus t didn’t have time this to do that. I said out loud, ining about not having week I found myself compla second time that par ticular time for something. utes before I went that morning, I took 5-10 min Once I made it to my office e is, God isn’t making You see, the thing about tim inside to spend with God. wild. Oil companies grow in the garden or in the any more of it. Time does not as it is, is the most utiful Gulf of Mexico. Time, don’t drill for time in the bea rything is after it. It’s sess, and everyone and eve valuable asset that we pos that there are 24 hours e, that is the key. The fact what I allow to have my tim ld. How I spend it has e I was brought into this wor in a day hadn’t changed sinc changed drastically.

usually rushed in the I spend my evenings. I’m I star ted thinking about how to the animals and pick ore dark so that I can tend afternoon to get home bef e fish food out for the s. I might try to throw a littl up the eggs from the chicken se to help Brett with t left. Then it’s up to the hou fish if I have enough sun ligh After we eat, it’s shower h the laundr y and dinner. his homework or Leslie wit e, it’s bumping 8:30 When this is all said and don time for me and the boys. ep by 9 pm, and I lay n. The boys are usually asle and time to star t winding dow Then we star t all over watching TV until 10 or 10:30. awake reading the news or the nex t morning.

spend reading the news r to an hour and a half that I But did you notice that hou day. I make time for sure to squeeze that into my or watching TV? I’m always at 5am to work out? an hour earlier, then woke up that. But what if I went to bed ions, pray, and then get e to shower, read my reflect I’d be home in plenty of tim e, you jus t have to find it.

My point is that there is tim ready for work and school. life receive the most most important things in my I have to make sure that the time devoted to them. my health, my job all need time. My children, my wife, with God. I’ve got to find time to spend Las t and cer tainly not least, easiest. You see, you time for God should be the If I’m being honest, finding time with Him. He’s or an appointment to spend don’t need a membership er ask you to leave a conversation. God will nev never too bus y for a quick God works. We are with you later. That’s not how message and he will try to get longs for those few children should be mine, God God’s priority. Jus t like my s my undivided attention. minutes a day where he get changing my New Year’s flying by at my house. I’m Life is so bus y. It’s literally e bet ter. I’m going to I’m going to manage my tim resolution three months in. k. I’m going to make , ins tead of washing my truc play catch when the boys ask up on time, so that I can re active. I’m going to wake time to work out and be mo t God has an extra few with God. I’m pretty sure tha spend an extra few minutes ns his way, but the Lord 16:9 “The heart of man pla minutes for me. Proverbs establishes his steps.”

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- FEATU RI NG -

COOL CATS There are so many fabulous kids doing amazing things!

Do you know a Cool Cat who needs to be recognized?

Email the details to kogden@lufkinjourneymagazine.com and you just might see them featured here.

LET'SLOL

WORD FI N D AN D MORE !

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H ello Spring | | | |

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Start

finish

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Tyler Lufkin Lady Panthers, who beat John TITLE TIME! Congratulations to the ol Scho dle Mid in Lufk the on um Gymnasi 53-33 on Senior Night in Panther in Pack Lady the to ugh district! Good luck campus to complete a 14-0 run thro ISD) KIN LUF MS/ Y ADA the playoffs! (PH OTO BY AND

g n i R E W O P em March2019.indd 39

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DEVILED EGG CHICKS DirectionsPlace eggs in a saucepan and cover with water about 1 1/2 inches.

Bring to a boil and boil for 10 minutes.

Remove pan from heat and let sit for 10 minutes.

Rinse eggs under cold running water for 1 minute.

Crack egg shells and carefully peel under cool running water.

Cut a thin slice off the bottom of each egg so it is flat and stands up.

Cut the top off each egg about 1/3 of the way down, making sure to go through the yolk and the center is exposed.

Carefully remove the yolks from both parts of the eggs, then place them in a bowl.

Mash yolks with a fork and add mayonnaise, vinegar, mustard, salt, and pepper and mix until well combined.

Transfer filling to a piping bag or use a plastic bag and snip off a corner.

Pipe egg yolk mixture into the egg whites, using enough filling to go over the top so there is room for a face.

Cut 6 beaks and 12 feet out of the carrot. Cut out 12 eyes from the olives.

Decorate the face and place the feet under each chick.

Put the egg white tops onto each chick to make it look like they are peeking out of the egg.

LET'S

2.

DOES FEBRUARY LIKE MARCH?

WHAT’S IRISH AND COMES OUT IN SPRING?

HOW EXCITED WAS THE GARDENER ABOUT SPRING?

4.

WHAT DO YOU CALL A RABBIT WITH FLEES?

4. Bugs Bunny March2019.indd 40

1.

6 eggs 1â „4 cup mayonnaise 1 tsp white vinegar 1 tsp yellow mustard salt, to taste black pepper, to taste 1 carrot, for decoration 1 black olive, for decoration

1. N o, b u t A p r il M a y 2. P a d d y O' Fur n i t ur e 3. S o e xc i t e d h e w e t h i s p l a n t s .

3.

L O L!

Ingredients-

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SPRING

is in the air!

ALLERGIES TEND TO RUN IN FAMILIES. IF A PARENT HAS AN ALLERGY, THERE IS A HIGHER CHANCE THAT HIS OR HER CHILD ALSO WILL HAVE ALLERGIES. THIS RISK INCREASES IF BOTH PARENTS ARE ALLERGIC. If your child has an allergic condition, try the following: Close windows during pollen season, especially on dry, windy days when pollen counts are high.

Keep the house clean and dry to reduce mold and dust mites.

Avoid having pets and indoor plants.

Avoid those things that you know cause allergic reactions in your child.

Prevent anyone from smoking anywhere near your child, especially in your home and car.

See your pediatrician for safe and effective medicine that can be used to alleviate or prevent allergy symptoms.

Get

MOVIN G

Put a SPRING in your step with these easy stretches!

- TOE TOUCH -

Sit on the ground with legs straight in front and touch your toes. Count to 10.

- NECK HALF CIRCLES -

Roll neck slowly forward from shoulder to shoulder. Do this 10 times.

- SHOULDER CIRCLES -

Shrug your shoulders and rotate them forward and down in a circle. Do this 10 times.

- REACH FOR THE STARS -

Reach up as high as you can while standing on your tiptoes.

- CHILD’S POSE -

Get on your knees with feet together.

Sit on your heels and bend your body forward until the forehead touches the ground.

Bring your arms around to each side of body, resting with your palms facing towards the sky.

Hold for 30 seconds.

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co m mu ni ty | REAL LIFE

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our foundation is firm Written by E R I N C U C C I O

It was 3am.

The alarm went off, but it didn’t wake me. I had been awake listening to the sound of the rain for hours.

Tears filled my eyes and streamed down my face knowing that my sweet husband was going to have to leave for work, and I would be left alone-- in the middle of the woods, in the middle of a state that was brand new, in a muddy mess of a driveway and yard that I was certain would keep me trapped forever.

I know it might seem dramatic. But later that morning, when I called to confirm that I had gotten out okay, I could hear the relief on the other end of the line that let me know I wasn’t being entirely over the top.

We had just moved hours away from everything and everyone that we knew. In hindsight that was still very much our current reality, we stared in the face of the realization that we were pretty bold (crazy?) to move not only to somewhere entirely new, but to somewhere on the backside of nowhere that was in dire need of lots of work and settling.

I could see the stress in sweet husband’s eyes. He had brought me here, and I knew he was desperate to find a solution. But we were getting rain without relief, and there seemed to be no immediate solution.

After driving through it, despite the mud and ruts, the base was hard. And one day, in preparing to leave and seeing my concern, he grabbed my shoulders and said, “I know. I know it’s a mess. But under the mud, the foundation is firm. It’s going to be okay.”

From that point on, each time I would leave, I would look at the mud and know that underneath, the foundation was hard. When I would feel my truck start to slip, I would keep calm and wait for it to catch on the hard base. I would purposefully take my mind off of the surface circumstances and put my confidence in the firm foundation.

And each and every time, I found myself resting on the firm foundation.

We’d moved from rural. This was primitive.

In life, we will often have times where circumstances are not favorable. We will be caught staring at situations that seem muddy and messy and may leave us feeling trapped. When this happens, and it is a guarantee it will, we have to be able to trust that our foundation is firm.

And yet it was our own little diamond in the rough. We felt confident we’d made the right step, but I would be lying if I said I didn’t cry often the first couple of weeks as it required military grade strategy each day to plan my escape through the disaster of mud and mess that was our driveway.

We must be able to put our trust in the fact that we have built a base that is strong enough to catch us when we want to slip in our current mess. We have to have done the groundwork that will ensure our safety when all that we can see looks grim.

There were horrible ruts. There was thick mud. There were white knuckles gripping the steering wheel. Prayers whispered. Breath held. Every single time. The thing was, I knew that it wouldn’t be like this forever. I knew the rain would stop. I knew it would get better. But in the meantime, day in and day out, would I make it through?

It is only then can we hold to hope, knowing that we will stand firm despite our setbacks and that we will persevere despite our peril. So when the storms of life come along and want to leave us battered and without relief, we can rest knowing that we will not be shaken. Because no matter what we are facing on the surface, our foundation is firm.

Erin Cuccio is a wife, mother to three sons, writer, speaker, and daughter of the King. After nearly a decade as an educator, she retired to her true passion– Secretary of Internal Affairs at the Cuccio Household. Today, she spends her time raising her sons with a heart after Christ and supporting her husband in his many entrepreneurial endeavors while embracing the grand adventure to which God has called them. She is a published columnist, contributing writer for several online sites, and author for her personal blog (www.erincuccio.com).

Erin delights in connecting with women by speaking wherever God opens the door. Her heart is to deliver a scripturally sound message wrapped in relevance and revelation for women of all ages. She has seen God’s faithfulness in joy and in tragedy, and has learned that in all things, He is good.

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PRESENTED BY -

C

2 0 QU E S T ION S | S P O T LIGH T | W I S D OM F ROM T H E WOR D

COM M U N I T Y

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co m mu ni ty | 20 QUESTIONS

TWENTY QUESTIONS -with-

TED LOVETT LUFKIN FIRE CHIEF

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1

W H AT I S Y O U R FAV O R I T E MIDNIGHT SNACK?

Cashews IF YOU COULD HIRE ANY ACTOR TO PLAY YOU IN A MOVIE, WHO WOULD IT BE? SAM ELLIOTT, NEED I EXPLAIN?

What is your motto in life?

3

I GAVE MY DAUGHTER A MICHAEL KORS WATCH

Yogi the Bear or Smokey the Bear?

Don’t sweat the small stuff; it’s all small stuff.

15

What would you tell your 18 year-old self?

DON’T MAK E THE SAME MISTAK ES MORE THAN ONCE!

18

WHAT IS THE LAST THING YOU BOUGHT ONLINE?

HOT TUB CHEMICALS

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6

What song always makes you happy when you hear it?

SIMPLE MAN

If you had to describe yourself in one word, what would it be?

SIMPLE

9

YO U R T RU C K I S ON FIRE A N D YO U C A N O N LY S AV E O N E T H I N G. W H AT WO U L D I T BE?

Who would you have narrate your life?

MY SISTER

WHY SMOKEY OF COURSE!

12 CARRIE UNDERWOOD

BEACH

What was the last gift you gave someone?

7

Who is your celebrity crush?

4

Mountains or Beach?

My Maui Jims!

14

Favorite words of wisdom?

JUST BECAUSE YOU CAN, SHOULD YOU?

16

13

What is your go-to guy movie?

HOW HOT DOES IT REALLY GET?

SMOKIN’ HOT!

AMERICAN GRAFFITI

17

If you could have dinner with three people (dead or alive), who would it be?

MY MOTHER, MY AUNT BESSIE, AND MY GRANDMOTHER… ALL DECEASED

Backdraft or Only The Brave?

ONLY THE BRAVE If you could be any animal in the world, what would you be?

20

I GIVE YOU A DALMATIAN AS A GIFT. WHAT DO YOU NAME IT?

KIM

DOLPHIN 2/11/19 1:34 PM

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I

Imagine how you might feel knowing everything you love is being taken away and all you are given is a flimsy trash bag to carry all your belongings.

Bags of Love is seeking to make this practice a thing of the past.

Bags of Love is a non-profit organization that provides bags for every child going into a foster system in our local community and surrounding regions. They provide duffel bags that include a few items such as blankets, toiletries, small Bibles for all age children that will help make these difficult times a little easier on these sweet children.

Hallie Hatthorn was taken away from her mother at 7 years old and given a trash bag and 5 minutes to gather her life. At 29 she bought 2 duffle bags online to use as gym bags, and then she remembered how she would have loved to have that duffel bag as a child having to leave her home and all her belongings.

In that moment, she realized that she could impact foster children and help bring a little stability in a very unstable time. Each duffle bag bears the verse Psalms 27:10, “Though my father and mother forsake me, the Lord will receive me.” When Hallie was in her second foster home, an elderly neighbor gave her a Bible and post-it note with that verse typed on it. That verse has been close to her heart ever since.

Hallie’s past is helping her change the future for many children. She says, “This is a very traumatic time in the child’s life, and they need to feel valued as more than a trash bag. They are our future, and they will remember this day just like I did.”

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c o m m u n i ty | S P O T LIGH T

Since 2016, over 3,000 bags have been handed out throughout Texas and a few more states. Bags of love is a 501C3 non-profit who gladly accepts donations. Every penny donated goes straight to their cause, there are no paid positions in the organizations.

You can learn more

about their work at

bagsoflovecharity.org.

GIVE TO BAGS OF LOVE! • Make a monetary donation to their account at Angelina Federal Credit Union

• Take donation items to the UPS store in Lufkin:

Conditioner

Travel blanket

Shampoo

Soap

Tooth brush and tooth paste

BABY TRAVEL SIZE shampoo, soap, tooth brush, lotion, baby oil, powder etc.

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c o m m u n i t y | W I S D OM F ROM T H E WO R D

I'm Listening, Lord Written by C H R I S D E V O R E

Luke 3:15-17, 21-22

Jesus knew where this was going to end, but he was committed to his

in their hearts concerning John, whether he might be the Messiah,

Finally, Jesus took this step of obedience to identify with us, with the

As the people were filled with expectation, and all were questioning John answered all of them by saying, "I baptize you with water; but

one who is more powerful than I is coming; I am not worthy to untie

the thong of his sandals. He will baptize you with the Holy Spirit and fire. His winnowing fork is in his hand, to clear his threshing floor and to gather the wheat into his granary; but the chaff he will burn with unquenchable fire."

Now when all the people were baptized,

calling and obedient to God.

people he came to save. His baptism symbolized our baptism into His righteousness, dying with Him and rising free from sin and able to walk in the newness of life.

Humility, commitment, and identification: that's really what baptism is

all about. But what does that mean for me and you? To be sure, there are incredible benefits to following Jesus:

unreserved acceptance, limitless love,

an important moment in His life. In

JOHN ANSWERED THEM ALL, “I BAPTIZE YOU WITH WATER. BUT ONE WHO IS MORE POWERFUL THAN I WILL COME, THE STRAPS OF WHOSE SANDALS I AM NOT WORTHY TO UNTIE. HE WILL BAPTIZE YOU WITH THE HOLY SPIRIT AND FIRE.

even protests saying that he should be

LUKE 3:16

for them, to teach about Jesus, to help

and when Jesus also had been baptized and was praying, the heaven was

opened, and the Holy Spirit descended upon him in bodily form like a dove. And

a voice came from heaven, "You are my Son, the Beloved; with you I am well pleased."

Luke’s story also raises the question, why would Jesus himself need to be

baptized? All four Gospels include the

story of Jesus’ baptism, so it is clearly Matthew’s version of the event, John

baptized by Jesus, not the other way

God's grace, forgiveness for all our sins,

and purpose in life. Those are powerful

benefits to following Him. But following

Christ is more than the benefits we receive; it is also a great responsibility.

The call God issues to each of us isn’t just a one-time thing that happened

years ago. He calls us by name, every day, to turn to Him and to trust Him

to guide us along the right path. God calls us to do his work. He calls us to

be powerful and positive influences

in the lives of those around us. To pray those around us grow in faith and love,

around. But Jesus responds, saying, “…it is proper for us in this way to

to worship together, and to help others realize that God loves them and

There are a few reasons why it was “proper” for Him to be baptized

grandparents, uncles, aunts and friends and to encourage our children

fulfill all righteousness.”

by John. Jesus’ baptism is one of humility. It’s obedience to God. His obedience began with his coming to earth as baby in a manger and

it ends with his crucifixion. In between his birth and his death, Jesus is always obedient to God and the purpose to which he’s been called.

His baptism, like ours, is also one of commitment. This was the

beginning of Jesus’ public ministry. He’s about to embark on His great work, his calling, and it’s appropriate that he is recognized by John.

John was “the voice in the wilderness” who Isaiah prophesized about.

that he wants them to trust Him. God calls all of us to be good parents, to be followers of Jesus.

When God calls ordinary people like us to be his disciples, to invite others to come and see Jesus, to do acts of love and kindness, to be

Christian parents, grandparents, friends, co-workers, to be active and faithful members of the church, or whatever it might be that God calls us to do, I pray that my response, our response to God would be the same as young Samuel who said when God called, "I’m listening, Lord.

What do you want me to do?"

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Chris has been married to his lovely wife Robyn for 22 years and has two awesome kids, Jake (17) and Halle (12) and two rambunctious fur babies, Chloe and Lexi. Although a Lufkin transplant, he has called this place home for 11 years. Chris is a student of the Word of God and a member of St. Cyprian’s Episcopal Church where is currently an aspirant to the diaconate.

He loves anything outdoors and has competed in four Ironman Triathlon competitions across the United States.

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CATCHING RAYS FOR BETTER HEALTH Cold gloomy days will soon be gone and we can look forward to spring and sunshine. Don’t be afraid to toss your quilt on the grass for a spring picnic and take in a little sunlight. Kind of like a mini-vacation but also doing your body some good. Just relax and soak up a little sunshine, your mood and body will thank you.

Studies show that sunshine prompts production of vitamin D, a powerhouse when it comes to health rewards. Taking a supplement to emulate that sunny feeling is not exactly like the real thing so do your homework and enjoy a little sunshine.

Here are some proven benefits of sunshine according to Michael Holick, M.D., director of the Heliotherapy, Light, and Skin Research Center at Boston University Medical Center.

1. BETTER MOOD Sunlight trips the release of serotonin and endorphins, hormones associated with happier mood and less depression.

2. DEEPER SLEEP Getting sun exposure during the day also puts you on track for more effective production of melatonin, the hormone that helps sleep. Your body is more eff icient at recognizing when it's evening after receiving some sunshine-fueled input during the day.

3. LOWER BLOOD PRESSURE When sunlight touches skin, a compound called nitric oxide is released into the blood vessels, a process that brings blood pressure levels down—which can lower the risks of heart attack and stroke.

4. REDUCED RISK OF SOME CANCERS While sunlight brings increased chances of skin cancer, a number of studies have shown associations between sun exposure and lower risks of colorectal, prostate, and breast cancer, as well as non-Hodgkin's lymphoma. Credit vitamin D for those wins.

5. STRONGER BONES Appropriate levels of vitamin D also keep your bones healthy.

6. POTENTIAL WEIGHT LOSS One study found that the higher your vitamin D levels were before starting a weight reduction plan, the more likely you were to succeed.

HOW TO GET THE SUN YOU NEED—SAFELY In general, target about 10 to 20 minutes of exposure on non-sun screened skin every day.

It's much better to have a small amount of sun time daily rather than a sun binge on a single day, which might cause sunburn.

If you're gradually increasing your sunshine time, be sure to also up your awareness of sun-related damage. Keep an eye on moles and blemishes, and check out any changes that seem notable.

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Need an easy, yummy recipe to take on a picnic? Try this Tuscan Pasta Salad recipe from therecipecritic.com.

INGREDIENTS 16 ounce bowtie pasta, cooked and drained in cold water 1, 7 ounce jar sun-dried tomatoes in oil, drained 1 red bell pepper, diced 1, 6.5 ounce can sliced olives 1 cup spinach ¼ cup basil, chopped ½ cup grated parmesan cheese

DRESSING ¾ cup olive oil 2 tablespoons white vinegar 2 tablespoons water 1 teaspoon salt 1 teaspoon sugar 1 teaspoon dry oregano 1 teaspoon dry basil 1 clove garlic black pepper to taste

INSTRUCTIONS In a large bowl combine pasta, sundried tomatoes, bell pepper, olives, spinach, basil, and parmesan cheese.

Toss until combined.

TO MAKE THE DRESSING In a small bowl whisk olive oil, vinegar, water, salt, sugar, oregano, basil, garlic and salt and pepper.

Drizzle the dressing over the pasta salad and serve.

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& PLACES

FACES

9 9 T H A N N UA L C H A M B E R B A N Q U E T , B B B T O RC H AWA R D S , LU F K I N I S D G R A N T S H O WC A S E , J U N IO R AC H I E V E M E N T D O D G E B A L L T O U R N E Y

&

A NGE LI NA COLLE GE LE A DE R S H I P CON F E R E NC E

( P L A C E S & FA C E S P H O T O S P R O V I D E D B Y L I S A C R O W A N D VA L E N A S P R A D L E Y )

59 | T H E J O U R N E Y M AG A Z I N E

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p l a c e s & f a c e s | 9 9 T H A N N UA L C H A M B E R B A N Q U E T

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The Lufkin/Angelina County Chamber of Commerce celebrated 99 years of service to our community during their annual banquet held at the Pitser Garrison Convention Center on January 24, 2019. The evening was filled with music, dinner, laughter and an awards ceremony. Afterwards, guests were invited to “walk through 100 years of history” and were treated to a gallery of images from Lufkin’s past.

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p l a c e s & f a c e s | B B B T O RC H AWA R D S

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The Better Business Bureau Torch Awards for Marketplace Ethics competition recognizes exemplary businesses that demonstrate ethical behavior and integrity in all aspects of operations. McWilliams & Son was award the prestigious 2018 BBB Torch Award in January of 2019.

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p l a c e s & f a c e s | LU F K I N I S D G R A N T S H O WC A S E

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Each year, Lufkin ISD teachers are awarded special grants for showing innovation in the classroom. On Thursday, Jan 31st, Lufkin ISD held a Grant Showcase allowing students, teachers, and potential donors to see how donations directly impact students at Lufkin ISD. Projects from varying grade levels were presented to guests throughout the evening. The Grant Showcase was held at the Pitser Garrison Convention Center and was free to the public.

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p l a c e s & f a c e s | LU F K I N I S D G R A N T S H O WC A S E

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p l a c e s & f a c e s | J U N IO R AC H I E V E M E N T D O D G E B A L L T O U R N E Y

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On February 5th, local businesses came out in support of Junior Achievement of Angelina County's Adults Take Hijinx Dodgeball Tournament. The double-elimination tourney helped raise money for JA's mission of providing financial literacy, work readiness, and entrepreneurial programs to Angelina County students.

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p l a c e s & f a c e s | J U N IO R AC H I E V E M E N T D O D G E B A L L T O U R N E Y

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p l a c e s & f a c e s | J U N IO R AC H I E V E M E N T D O D G E B A L L T O U R N E Y

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p l a c e s & f a c e s | A NGE LI NA COLLE GE LE A DE R S H I P CON F E R E NC E

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Angelina College hosted its 2nd Annual Nonprofit Leadership Center Conference on February 6th and 7th to educate, encourage and inspire emerging and tenured leaders for the unique challenges of the nonprofit sector.

This 2-day conference provided training in the best practices and essentials of leading and managing a nonprofit.

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T o.

our advertisers

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re a d e r ' s | S HOWCA S E

• South Loop Crossing • 4605 S Medford Dr • (936) 632-2333

Looking for a place for friends/family to stay when they’re visiting Lufkin? Look no further than the newly remodeled Best Western Plus Crown Colony Inn & Suites in Lufkin.

The rooms are gorgeous and the staff is amazing! They’ve earned a Red Carpet Salute! Book at stay with them by calling (936) 634-3481.

We are doing double-backhand springs over Tall Timbers Gymnastics’ new, beautiful building! Go by and visit Ashley and her staff at 101 N John Redditt Drive, Lufkin, or give them a call at (936) 632-0001.

Well HOT DOG...look who joined the Chamber! It was a beautiful and sunny morning for a ribbon cutting at Wienerschnitzel! They have so much more than just hotdogs. They have hamburgers, chicken sandwiches, pastrami sandwiches, jalapeno poppers, ice cream and more. Stop by for lunch today and say hello to the owners!

101 N Brentwood Drive, Lufkin.

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your | C H A L L E N G E

Faith tells me,

NO MATTER WHAT LIES AHEAD OF ME,

GOD IS ALREADY THERE.

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ARE YOU A PRO OR JUST A HOBBYIST? SHARE YOUR BEST PHOTOGR APHY WITH US A ND GIVE YOUR JOURNEY SOME EXPOSURE. SELECTED PHOTOGR APHS WILL APPEAR IN THE JOURNEY MAGAZINE. PLEASE SEND YOUR HIGH RESOLUTION (300 DPI) IMAGES TO kkhudman@yahoo.com INCLUDE YOUR NAME, CONTACT INFORMATION AND ANY TITLE YOU WISH TO GIVE YOUR PHOTO. WE WANT TO PUBLISH YOUR JOURNEY IN THE BEST MAGAZINE!

WOODLAND HEIGHTS SENIOR CIRCLE MAKING HEART PILLOWS FOR HEART SURGERY PATIENTS! - BY AMANDA ANDERSON

STILL HAVING FUN TOGETHER AFTER ALL THESE YEARS - BY RUSSELL STRBAN

SO PROUD OF OUR GRACIE AND HARD WORK OVER ALL THESE YEARS. WE LOVE YOU! - JUDY WINGER

WE LOVE OTIS!! - BY SOUTHERN HAVEN VET CLINIC & PET RETREAT

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BRONSON WAS ON FIRE WITH HIS FISHING SKILLS - BY SUSIE CARROWAY

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LUFKIN PANTHER BLACKOUT GAME - BY MELISSA JORDAN

FIRST PLACE, MIXED DOUBLES, AT HORSESHOE BAY - BY DAWN SHAPAKA

CECE LOPEZ AND XAVIER WILLIAMS, TWO LOCAL HIGH SCHOOL SWEETHEART GRADUATES FROM PINEYWOODS ACADEMY, ENJOYING THE SNOW IN ROCHESTER INSTITUTE OF TECHNOLOGY, NY - BY MURIEL DOYLE

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A DADDY DAUGHTER WINTER BALL DANCE -BY YESENIA HINOJOSA

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W O R T H T H E WA I T | B A C K YA R D B A S I C S | O U T D O O R E V E N T S | E AT O U T D O O R S

J

JOU R N EY OUT D O ORS

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WORTH the

WAIT WRITTEN BY - AMBER FLOYD

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o u t d o o rs | W O R T H

T H E

WA I T

I was 21 when I went on my first turkey hunt and I refuse to believe that there will ever be a last hunt for me. My husband Floyd introduced me to turkey hunting in college. I had grown up in a family where hunting was sitting in a deer stand overlooking a food plot. I didn’t know what to expect with turkey hunting, but I was hooked from hunt number one. I had never experienced anything as thrilling. The next 11 years would take me on memorable hunts where I experienced things I never thought possible. I’ve seen birds walk within a few feet of me without spooking.

I’ve hiked in the Black Hills of South Dakota, with bands of snow blanketing my gun barrel. I’ve built friendships and shared memories that you can’t get in a movie theater or coffee shop. Of all the memories and miles I’ve logged, March 25, 2018 will remain one of those hunts that rises to the top. To tell the truth – I still get the jitters thinking about it.

Everything in nature has its own rhythm and timing, and my time had finally arrived. Floyd and I spent three days hunting with our friend Taylor on the public lands surrounding our old college town. On our final morning we hiked along a dirt road as it drizzled rain. Taylor heard a distant gobble and we set a more deliberate pace until we arrived at the perfect place to set up. As I sat alone looking out from a slash pile on a ridge, Floyd and Taylor felt a world away, concealed in a bend in that massive pile of logging debris.

From my left came a pair of jakes, giving soft purrs of contentment as they approached our decoys. A noisy hen yelped from the hardwood bottom below.

The jakes went in and out of strut right in front of me. Finally, one let out a gobble that echoed down through the bottom. Turkeys immediately scrambled up the hill. I soon saw before me five jakes and three hens and an aggressive clash ensued. The jakes made the biggest commotion I’d ever heard in the turkey woods as birds jumped and f logged one another with their spurs. Amidst the fighting jakes appeared the most magnificent gobbler. With a beard pouring out from a barrel chest, the lone gobbler crested the

hill and without hesitation began gobbling, strutting, and pushing that ball of fighting jakes towards me.

With gun ready, I watched in amazement as the f lock amassed mere yards in front of me. I knew I would likely have a very limited window to shoot the mature tom without injuring the other birds.

Finally the gobbler worked his way into the center of the f lock, stood up proudly and outstretched his wings, giving me the perfect opportunity. As my 20-gauge sent an explosion of pellets towards that turkey I couldn’t believe what had just happened. I put my safety back on and set my gun down; my husband ran up and lifted me off the ground; and Taylor ran to the bird. There were smiles all around. Not only was the situation unbelievable, the bird was as well.

The gobbler weighed 21.5 pounds and sported 1-7/16” spurs and a 10-1/4” beard. This turkey had survived at least three previous hunting seasons, predators, and the other hazards of the wild.

Although harvesting a legal bird was my goal, the conditions surrounding this hunt – good friends, a thrilling display, and a trophy-class bird on public land - made it all the sweeter. Our celebration was tempered by a great respect for the turkey. As much as we’d like to think it was our great skill that had brought this bird to us, we were most likely helped along by a healthy dose of luck.

I can’t say why it took me 12 years to harvest a bird.

I’m sure I could think of many excuses. Truth be told, I think it’s just the way it was meant to be. I find it a great reminder that regardless of the activity, dedicating your time to pursue your passion is essential. When it comes to hunting, the reward of time spent in the woods can’t be replaced with any new technology or gadget. Turkey hunting is about getting in the woods and having an interaction with a wild, intelligent animal. It’s about all the other things you notice walking through the woods on a cool spring day, from the first buckeye blooming to wood thrushes singing. While it may not always take 12 years to harvest a wild turkey, it does take dedication,

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confidence, and perseverance.

I harvested my second bird just a few weeks later while hunting alone on some local public land. It was a special hunt as it was my first bird harvested completely by myself. As good as these accomplishments feel, I

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continue to set new goals and I hope a grand slam is in my future. With each turkey season I learn more about myself and the turkeys I hunt, and I ref lect on how much it has given me, including confidence, friendships, and lasting life lessons.

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A DE R R A M IE of t he A C H UNT Written by - E M I LY C O U R T N E Y

To most hunters, time with friends and family at deer camp or in the duck blind is the quintessential expression of the camaraderie of the hunt. The phrase conjures up images of camo-clad buddies around the hearth of a weathered hunting cabin, or groups knee-deep in f looded timber, proudly displaying full straps of green heads. While these experiences certainly exemplify the camaraderie of the hunt, there is another that requires and creates just as strong of a kinship, but somehow seems to be less thought of in this way. Any turkey hunter will tell you, their hunting companions are some of their closest and most trusted friends. You don’t take someone in the turkey woods with you otherwise. There are many turkey hunters who are staunch soloists, probably precisely for this reason. However, by a large majority, turkey hunting is a team sport, and it takes an unbelievable level of cooperation for a pair or group of hunters to outsmart a bird and f ire off a successful shot.

Turkey hunters are a breed all their own. Once exposed to its thrill and challenge, most newcomers f ind it to be an incurable fever. They become consumed by every aspect of hunting wild turkeys, from their ecology and biology, to mastering calling, to managing their habitat.

Every hunter

counts down to their favorite season, but there’s something different about the single-mindedness of turkey hunters. They plan with the intensity and precision of a general preparing for war, and their hunting buddies are their brothers in arms. They have to trust each other, be able to anticipate each other’s moves, will walk miles of woods together, and suffer heartbreak and defeat together.

Knowing that these hunters share a bond like this makes it curious that turkey season doesn’t seem to share in the lore of camaraderie surrounding deer or duck camp. The connection that occurs during the hunt manifesting in a gathering of food and fellowship in between hunts.

Although it

doesn’t seem to be as universal of a thing, we know turkey camp does exist, because we had one for ourselves last spring at the King Ranch in South Texas. The camaraderie of the hunt was strong, as we had seasoned turkey killers introducing one hunter to his f irst turkey hunting experience. He killed his f irst (and second) turkey, and there was plenty of other action to go around as well. We came together under the shade of ancient oaks to cook for lunch what we killed that day, and share in the fellowship of our mutual accomplishment. Hopefully this can serve as inspiration to let the camaraderie of the hunt carry over to your spring season.

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o u t d o o rs

B A C K Y A R D

B A S I C S

of the

Last spring, we included a feature highlighting the role of Texas as the major

migration route for Monarch butterflies, and also gave some tips about enhancing pollinator habitat in your own backyard. Monarchs migrate

south to overwintering grounds in Mexico each fall, and return north in

the spring. That time is approaching again, and the returning butterflies will have a chance to use your backyard gardens! Some dedicated Monarch watchers and citizen scientists are predicting that this could be one of the largest spring migrations seen in years, so it’s a great time to be on the lookout!

If you really want to join in the fun, consider helping track the migration by reporting sightings to Journey North (journeynorth.org), a large citizen

science organization dedicated to reporting and mapping wildlife sightings and migrations across the country. There’s a simple online form where you

can report the location and time of your sighting, and even include a photo

if you’re lucky enough to snap one! This can be a great activity to do with your kids, and Journey North even has special resources for educators and

class groups. Organizations like this and the private citizens that make it up are responsible for much of the information we have about wildlife and their seasonal movements.

If you haven’t created your backyard butterfly sanctuary just yet, it’s never too late to start! This spring can be your planting season for including

some milkweeds and other pollinator-friendly plants in your garden. And don’t worry, you can always head out to your local state park for a Monarch sighting!

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OU T D O OR EV EN T S M A RCH 2019 E V EN T S C A L ENDA R

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TEXAS

Here in East Texas, we just happen to be living amidst some of the best outdoor recreational opportunities in the country. This is partly due to our own gorgeous state, but also partly because we happen to be neighbors with states that call themselves “Sportsman’s Paradise” and “The Natural State”. This puts us in prime position for all the outdoor fun anyone could handle. Check out these few places and events we’ve gathered here, and drop by the website of each individual state for a more comprehensive calendar!

Visit tpwd.texas.gov for more info and registration.

STATE PARK EVENTS MARCH 2:

TEXAS WILDLIFE & WOODLANDS EXPO – CONROE, TX (LONE STAR COLLEGE MONTGOMERY)

Play for a Day! Learn for a Lifetime! Free hands-on event for families to learn about the natural environment and our overall health. This event brings experts from the natural resources for live demonstrations and hands on application. Don’t miss the Family Adventure Zone where youth can participate in archery, kayaking, fishing, digging in the dirt with earthworms, make a birdhouse and much more.

Join Ranger Amy to learn how to watercolor nature scenes.

Registration required.

MARCH 9:

ON THE TRAIL WITH THE BUFFALO SOLDIERS – CADDO LAKE STATE PARK

Join the Buffalo Soldiers at Caddo Lake State Park for interactive games, historical interpretation, outdoor skills, and fun for audiences of all ages. Explore our Buffalo Solider camp, and listen to stories about the lives of these trail blazing soldiers—view displays of artifacts and tools, discover how to track an animal, learn Native American skills, or even play a round of early frontier baseball!

MARCH 12:

SPRING CAMP FISHING DAY – JESSE H. JONES PARK AND NATURE CENTER (HUMBLE, TX)

Youth ages 8-16 can learn the enjoyment of fishing during our Spring Breakout. TPWD Certified Instructors will introduce students to basic fishing skills, including knot tying, fish ID and habitat, and fishing regulations.

Students should wear closed toe shoes that you don't mind getting dirty. Dress for the weather and bring a sack lunch. After the class portion the students will have the opportunity to fish. Rod/ reel, tackle and bait are provided or you can bring your own gear.

Pre-registration is required and reservations will begin on Wednesday, Feb 28,2019 at 8:00 AM.

MARCH 6:

HOMESCHOOL PROGRAM, WATERCOLOR NATURE SCENES – MARTIN DIES, JR. STATE PARK

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MARCH 19:

BIRDING FOR BEGINNERS – CADDO LAKE STATE PARK Join us for an introduction to birding! You will learn binocular and bird ID tips, followed by a hike where we’ll play a game to practice your new skills.

MARCH 23:

TEXAS FIN-FUR CON – TEXAS FRESHWATER FISHERIES CENTER (ATHENS, TX) Texas Fin-Fur-Con, our annual Merit Badge University, gives Boy Scouts the opportunity to complete requirements for a variety of outdoor-related merit badges. Registration will be through the Circle Ten Council website.

OTHER EVENTS

reservoir. If you’ve ever wanted to explore the eastern shore of this beautiful system of lakes, Louisiana maintains two state parks here, North Toledo Bend and South Toledo Bend. They are two of the most scenic and visited parks in the state, and are both an hour and half drive from Lufkin.

Many other parks host a wide range of activities and events, and there is plenty of outdoor recreation to be found outside the park system as well.

Part of our border with Louisiana is made up of the expansive and extremely popular Toledo Bend

GUIDED CANOE TOUR – CHICOT STATE PARK, VILLE PLATTE A ranger-led guided tour of Chicot Lake and the surrounding park grounds. For more information call 888.677.6100

MARCH 15:

GHOST SHIPS ON THE MISSISSIPPI – PORT HUDSON STATE HISTORIC SITE, JACKSON

Experience the Anniversary of Battle of Port Hudson by a ranger-led evening walk to Fort Desperate and tell of bizarre and ghostly battlefield stories. After the walk, the staff will conduct a special night-time firing of the always popular 42-pounder cannon, then we move to the pond where the night-time deadly navy assault will be recreated and the destruction of the USS Mississippi will be witnessed using the model gunboat fleet.

For more information call 888.677.3400

AZALEA TRAIL – NACOGDOCHES, TX

LOUISIANA

MARCH 23:

Visit louisianatravel.com for more info on individual events.

MARCH - APRIL:

Travel to Nacogdoches, the Garden Capital of Texas, to view the largest azalea garden in the state. With more than 7,000 azaleas, the Ruby M. Mize Azalea Garden located on the campus of Stephen F. Austin State University boasts spring color like nowhere else. While here, take time to drive the scenic Azalea Trail that stretches throughout gorgeous parts of the city.

All materials will be provided, and participants can take their creations home. Regular Park Fees apply. For more information call 888.677.7853

ARK ANSAS

The Arkansas wilderness is famous for it’s natural beauty. If you’re looking for a little different scenery to explore for a long weekend, you might find it here.

There are ample opportunities for all types of outdoor recreation at Arkansas state parks, as well as fun and educational family activities. Visit arkansasstateparks. com for more information on individual events.

MARCH 1-2:

ANNUAL OUTDOOR SKILLS WEEKEND – DAISY STATE PARK (KIRBY, AR)

MARCH 17: WEAVE IT OR LEAVE IT – FORT ST. JEAN BAPTISTE STATE HISTORIC SITE, NATCHITOCHES Participants will learn how to make a drawstring change pouch.

Discover how fun playing outdoors can be while sharpening your skill sets at Daisy State Park!

Throughout the weekend, we will offer various workshops to help you learn new outdoor skills. On the final day of the event you’ll have the opportunity to show off your new skill set by participating in a friendly challenge with other participants. This weekend is sure to be lots of fun for the entire family!

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MARCH 2:

3-D ARCHERY TOURNAMENT – RICK EVANS GRANDVIEW PRAIRIE CONSERVATION EDUCATION CENTER (COLUMBUS, AR)

Bring the family and brush up your skills or learn a new sport.

Awards will be given to the first three places in each division.

Call Caleb Coulter, 870- 8268193, to register or for more information.

MARCH 8:

MAKE YOUR OWN TURKEY CALL AND TURKEY HUNTING BASICS – JANET HUCKABEE ARKANSAS RIVER VALLEY NATURE CENTER (FORT SMITH, AR) Learn to make and use a turkey call. Leave with your own slate call to attract your next gobbler.

All materials provided. Registration is required. Call 479-4523993 to register or for more information.

MARCH 15-17:

JONQUIL FESTIVAL – HISTORIC WASHINGTON STATE PARK (WASHINGTON, AR) Create memories and celebrate a tradition at Historic Washington State Park. This three-day festival heralds the arrival of spring in Southwest Arkansas! Thousands of jonquils welcome craftspeople, entertainers, and visitors to the town of Historic Washington.

Unique crafts and delicious foods are just part of the attractions.

Tours of the park, historic homes, and museums are available at regular price.

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o u t d o o rs | E A T

O U T D O O R S

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Grilled

SEAFOOD BOIL Preparation Time: 30 minutes Cooking Time: 15 minutes Serves: 4

INGREDIENTS 2 fish fillets (any lean, white fish of choice, such as red snapper, tilapia, catfish, or bass) 1 lb uncooked shrimp 1 lb small red potatoes, quartered 4 ears corn, halved 1 medium yellow onion, sliced thin Extra virgin olive oil Cajun seasoning lemon salt and pepper, to taste

DIRECTIONS Divide the fish, shrimp, potatoes, onion, and corn into four foil packets. Drizzle with olive oil, and add as much Cajun seasoning and salt/ pepper as desired. Squeeze a sprinkle of lemon juice over each packet and fold to close.

Place packets on a medium-high grill and cook for about 15 minutes, or until fish is flaky, and potatoes and tender.

Multiply this recipe to serve to your favorite group of people, on your favorite porch, on the first warm spring day!

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HOM E T OU R | I N T H E K I T C H E N | W I SD OM F ROM T H E WOR D | AG G I E

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O PER AT E D

JOURNEY OUTDOORS