January, 2014

forever

January- February 2014

HIS His

princess

{created by girls- for girls}

Living Christmas

Everyday

p. 7

Celebrate

p.34

January&February2013

Inthisissue:

Opening: - New Word - Note From Elesa - Meet the Staff

{Forever His Princess} Christmas Everyday

{Live, Laugh & Style} Recipe’s- havin’ fun in the kitchen: How We live in: Bonners Ferry, Idaho

Encouragement for Everyday Struggles

Christmas Chills

His Princess

To travel the world: Paris

Identifying God’s Infinite Gifts

Story Corner

Behind the Mirror

I love Photography!

What is Christmas to you?

{Life & Impact} Mission Update: Liberia

{Closing} Magazine Update Spring Issue Credits Contact Us!

Extra’s: - 2014- here we come!

- Featured Blogger!

- Christmas Carol

Coming soon:: The Team Shares!

New

Word Sapient \SAY-pee-unt\ Adj.

Meaning:

possessing or expressing great wisdom

Example: Kara regarded her teacher as sapient on matters pertaining to both school and life, and she listened carefully to her advice whenever it was offered.

A Note From Elesa When I don’t

measure up To much in this life: I know I am a

treasure

In the arms of Jesus.

Wow‌ how fast these years fly by! It seems like just yesterday that I was that ten-year old on the plane, flying into an unknown territory in Africa -to the land of cannibals; ones who eat you; to the land of snakes, lizards, heat-year-round, and everything scary that you can imagine.

But now I am accustomed to all that. I no longer am scared spitless of snakes (ok, not as bad :) And I am thinking of flying back into a somewhat unknown and scary territory in the next year.

What changes life brings!

I hope that whatever comes your way this next year, you will grow closer to God. May you go with God! -Elesa

Team

Meet our

Elisa Knicely::

Editor and designer

Elisa started Forever His Princess in late 2010 with her love of writing. Her goal for the magazine is to glorify God- and give everyday encouragement for girls of many ages. She loves: the color red, being outside with her wonderful camera, hot chocolate on cold days, and meeting new people. More than anything she wants to serve God with all her heart mind and strength. Have a personal question? Email at- elisaknicely@gmail.com.

Elesa Stoltzfus::

Co-editor and co- designer

I live in Africa, and God has taught me many things through my experiences. Since I became codesigner, I have loved it! I also love my little second graders, all the little black children around me, and especially my camera. My desire is that what I do can make an impact for God! If you want to contact me, my email address is elesarose@gmail.com.

Living-

Christmas

everyday

T

he air is frosty and crisp, sucking the air from my lungs with every breath, my heart pounding with the rhythm of my stride. Sun hides behind the ridge of empty trees, tree with hungry arms reaching toward light, while the meadow below bows stiffened with frost. I am striding to my goal-hurrying toward that which gives me an anchor my day.

There, where the lane dips and curves, just before it swings out of sight among overhanging limbs is the huge culvert.

And rippling through that empty expanse is the liquid, living thing that brings a smile to my lips every morning. Not living- as in breathing, pulsing heart, warm blood. But living, as in moving, liquid sound, babbling words that are no words yet shouting out its message to me in a quiet continual murmur. Here, at the bottom of the hill, is a water course, a tiny riverlet, a baby creek that chuckles its way along our meadow, gurgling under the fallen apple tree, rippling over black stones before disappearing into the huge culvert, then slipping out the other side under barb wire fence, rambling on to disappear around the curve into pasture clipped close by placid cows.

When times are harsh, and words cut and dig, this quiet murmuring goes on.

When in my house on the hill I rush from one task to the next, this water ripples on at the same steady pace. Like the heartbeat of my Father, it holds out its melody for me, asking me to reach out and experience Him, and find the immense calm that pervades the Throne Room where He dwells. That is what my heart has sought on my morning pilgrimage.

Do I wish for Christmas every day?

Then I will open my heart to the Child, The Stream of joy that flows within my soul, and invite Him to flow through me. Today. This moment.

I give myself to His flowing, and I tell Him to give me the word to go. To stop. To speak. To remain silent. The words I hear from His lips today are myGloria in excelsis Deo— my Christmas Every Day.

By: Judy Yoder I pause. Stillness. I capture the moment.

No birds yet awake. No stars linger to gaze. But I am hearing that ties me to Something as unchanging and unending and adventuresome as this baby stream.

Christmas every day is the perception that he is the air around me, in the soul within me, working out his will and His way, forming me into a new person. A me that will emerge at the moment of death—spirit beautiful, untainted by flesh’s imperfections, wounds and scars. A spirit that will emerge developed to the exact degree that I have chosen his way. And followed Him. And hungered for Him.

Christmas every day is hungering for fellowship between His heart and mine, The sense of His hand upon mine, His yoke across my neck. His being born in me today, he is being brought to completeness as I bend when he bends, I break when he says, I dissolve when he asks it, I become firm as he stiffens my will.

Encouragement For Everyday Struggles Finding Contentment

Philippians 4:12 I know what it is to be in need, and I know what it is to have plenty, I have learned the secret of being content in any and every situation, whether well fed or hungry, whether living in plenty or in want, I can do everything through him who gives me strength

This verse applies so much to my life—not because I have the perfect outlook (I totally do not) but I have had times when I felt like I had everything I needed. Then I had so many times when everything just seemed like it was just taken away from me and I felt like my world was crashing down. I found that part of getting through every situation is only done by getting through it with God’s continual help and focusing just day by day. Looking up to Him and saying “Lord, I cannot do this on my own; I need your help.” I truly don’t know how many times I have said that prayer to God before to help me overcome things and get through them. Even though I prayed those words does not mean in any way that things went perfectly or went how I wanted them to, nut God had a plan and it went according to His. And that is all that matters!

If you feel like you are in a hard time right now and you just need to feel content with where you are- let me tell you that you won’t find it without God. We all need God’s help to find contentment in this world.

People will not bring true contentment to us; items will not bring contentment, neither will fame- It may leave us feeling content for a few moments, but that will quickly fade.

True contentment comes from God and by asking Him to help supply your needs. It is often hard to feel happy and satisfied with the lives we live and remain feeling happy, we constantly want more and more....more friends, more popularity, more time....it never ends. Lately I've been just trying to rush through the days to get them over-with at college. I have to remind myself to use the time I have here as a purpose and fill my days with meaning and impact!

One thing I have found true though is looking to the past and all that God has accomplished with my life so far and being able to trust Him with the present. Knowing He will supply my needs and bring along the friends, popularity, and time I need to fulfill here on earth. Don’t go seeking contentment in things of this world or people‌ look to God with your struggles and worries. He will help you and not forsake you! He loves you and delights in you!! He loves to hear from you and is always there! If you are trying to find contentment in this world, it is possible you won’t find it here.

We were not made to stay here on this earth, we are just passing through! But, one way I find the most lasting contentment is by helping others and encouraging them. Find something in your life that will last for eternity and that you enjoy, and do it! It may help bring happiness into your life and others!

About the Author I am Britt, a 20 year old college student in the process of getting a bachelor's degree in Graphic Design.

I was born and raised in a Christian family and became saved when I was 7 years old (a few months after my dad passed away). I think when he died, I realized that I wanted to go where he was and I was thinking about where I might go if I died. There have been many ups and downs along the way from then until now, but through those hard times it has truly brought me closer to God. I believe that if I never went through the things I had faced in the past that it truly wouldn't have made me the person I am today. I have often wondered where I would be without God or the trials I have faced.

Check out my blog at:

encouragementforeverydayst ruggles.blogspot.com

His

Princess {Pursing Deeper Intimacy with the Father}

Ask Me Anything and

Seek After ME Iam all powerful, and I am preparing you for something significant in My

“Yes, ask anything in my name- and I will do it!”

John 14:14

eternal plan. Don’t be afraid to dream big just because of past disappointments. Remember, it wasn’t your faith Me that failed you, it was your faith in people that caused the pain of broken dreams. I am your His Princess is taken from the book: His Princess- “love letters from your King”,

by Sherri Rose Shepherd.

King, and I can do anything you ask in My name. King David started out as a small shepherd boy, but had faith big enough to kill a giant. I am just as real today in yo- as I was back then.

So ask Me, obey Me, and seek Me with all your heart, mind and strength.

And then watch My promises to you come to pass in my perfect time.

I will wait for you as long as it takes.

There is nothing that pleases Me more than when you, my princess, seek after me. Like a lonely traveler seeking shelter from a storm, come to Me. Take comfort under My roof.

Find security within My walls. Let Me be your hiding place. That is what I created you for. You were never meant to wander the cold, lonely streets of life alone. So seek Me in the morning, and seek Me throughout the day and into the evening. Pursue Me with all your heart. When you do, you will find more than shelter. You will find a place to lay down your burdens and rest. You will also discover that I have been pursuing you all along.

Love, Your King and Answer to Everything.

Identifying

God’s infinite

Gifts

::Learning From Africans By: Elesa Stoltzfus

Thanksgiving {in Africa}:: ________________________________________________

Thanksgiving:: a time when you thank God for all He has given to you; a time when the leaves are {supposed} to turn orange, red, and yellow, but don’t in Africa; a time to eat turkey and pumpkin pie {valuable like gold because of the price}; a time when you gather with your friends and neighbors {on the CAM compound} to just downright have a day off from the normal days.

This thanksgiving, I realize what infinite blessings I have… with a heart full of this realization, I praise God. I have the assurance of a dry bed at night, which many of my friends here do not have. They get up in the middle of the night, with rain seeping in through the door and roof, to set up barricades that water cannot pass through. Whoa… what blessings we have!!! And as for meds? I have the full assurance of medications if I get sick. Here- my

friends worry where the money will come from to buy meds. Ok, wait, never mind the definitely not sterile government hospitals that are free of charge.

And what about your family? Most likely they’re all at home with you and if not, you know exactly where they are. Why are we so privileged, while some don’t even know if their family members are still alive? And these Africans are happy… they still love God. They realize who God really is: that he wants to give us things to make us happy. He delights in our joy.

So, why don’t you take delight in those really, really small things? Let those teeny-weeny blessings be delighted in. Let God know you truly are thankful for all that he has given you- big and small. You’ve got everything you need +…. So what could be better that thanking God?

-------------------------------------

Nothing taken for granted; Everything received with gratitude; everything passed on with grace.

-------------------------------------

Do you have a topic you would like to share or even your story?

We would love to hear it!

Behind the Mirror {Looking at the inward beauty of a woman- rather than the outward}

Photography- Elesa Stoltzfus

“

A note from Elisa:

God loves you just as you are. As people who have been created by God, we are infinitely precious to Him because we are His creation. Regardless of our outward appearance, we are all made with that spiritual potential to relate directly to Him, spirit to Spirit……You may not look so favorably on your outward appearance, but when God looks at you, He sees His beautiful daughter. While God cares deeply about our own personal struggles with our outward appearances, whatever they may be, He cares even more for you. Your outward appearance does not change God’s acceptance of you, and it certainly does not change the way He feels about you.

”

As girls- its so easy to look at the outward appearance and base our lives off of it.

We could easily tend to chatonize other girls from outward appearance- and make their lives just miserable because they don't fit in our standards.

Its important to remember that God made us unique- and special. And its in the inside that counts. Cultivating the gift of love and hospitality- as we grow older and being a servant is what God looks at. It really falls down to if you are seeking the approval of other girls or of God. I know it can be so easy to remember for our friends approvalbut Gods is much more important!

“The most beautiful people we have known are those who have known defeat, known suffering, known struggle, known loss, and have found their way out of the depths. These persons have an appreciation, a sensitivity, and an understanding of life that fills them with compassion, gentleness, and a deep loving concern. Beautiful people do not just happen.”

“For Attractive lips, speak words of kindness.

For lovely eyes, seek out the good in people.

For a slim figure, share your food with the hungry.

For beautiful hair, let a child run their fingers through it once a day.

For poise, walk with the knowledge that you never walk alone.

In next Issue::

“Friends by Inward Beauty”

Christmas Carol:

Written by: Judy Yoder

A lowly band of horses,

plodding, heads down along

the eastern slope of ridge, riders on their backs leaning forward wearily to catch the first glimpse of the town hugging the slope in the afternoon sun. Ah, there it was--simple worn walls, small houses stacked helter-skelter, tight against another, narrow, winding streets, It was Christmas eve one hundred and fifty years ago and Mr. Brooks, the tall, dignified minister in the middle of the travelers could think of no more fitting place to be than looking down upon the very town where the mystery of God in the flesh had been born. He took a deep breath and gazed.

Across fields dotted with sheep came the call of men, herding their flocks slowly toward caves in the hills where they would spend the night. Brooks gathered his reins tighter in his hands and his blue eyes narrowed. Here, surely even where they stood, the heavenly angels had appeared and haunting, beautiful music had wafted across darkened hills.

From the west, sun-slanted shadows fell across Bethlehem’s house roofs and the dome of the Holy Church of the Nativity where Brook’s group was heading. The minister felt his heart quickening. The time of the newborn cry was surely heard not in the quiet bleating of sparse flocks, but in the midst of clamor of strangers running short of food, of lodging, running out of up-tight householders, streets crowded with folk bedding down on people’s doorsteps, soldiers on guard to make sure strangers made their way peacefully to the census booth on the edge of town.

An hour later Brooks sat in the evening service, watching the ritual of leading those attending through the night hours into Christmas morning. It was 3 am before the service was over and he stumbled out to make his way to bed waiting for him for the night.

O little child of Bethlehem, descend to us we pray, The next day the travelers were hurried elsewhere, Cast out our sin and enter in, be born in us today, but the memory of moon-lit Bethlehem caught in a We hear he Christmas angels, the great, glad tidings tell, circle of hills, caves flickering with lantern light, and oh come to us, abide with us, our Lord Immanuel! streets holding strangers, stole often into the minister’s mind and one Christmas season, some years later, he sat at his desk in Boston and words Brooks stood up and held the piece of paper in flowed from his pen. … his hands. He would see if his friend, the organist, could put these simple words to a melody- one they could use at the Christmas program at O little town of Bethlehem, how still we see thee lie, the… Episcopal church where he served. He Above thy deep and dreamless sleep, the silent stars go by, stepped out into the street, hurrying to his yet in thy dark street shineth, the everlasting light. friend’s door, and the man promised to give it a The hopes and fears of all the years, are met in thee tonight. try.

Brooks sat back in his chair and looked sadly our across the dark streets of Boston. The War between the States had just come an end, and there was much suffering and bitterness yet in the hears of men. Brooks sighed. How much we need the Child of Christmas to be born- not far –away Bethlehem but in our own hearts. Yes, how much America needed

One day went by. And then another. Yet nothing came. When brooks stopped by to see what the organist had created, had nothing to show him. Mr. Brooks bowed respectfully, but he turned home, disappointed. Tomorrow was Christmas day.

Then, it came. In the middle of the night, the organist was awakened by the invisible sound of melody-and he lit a candle, scribbled furiously onto paper before it left his memory. He held the paper at arm’s length him in the flickering How silently, how silently, the wondrous gift is given, Yet God imparts to human hearts the blessings of His heaven…. light-in awe of what had occurred. And the next No ear may hear His coming, yet in this world of sin, morning the song was sung at the Christmas Where meek souls will receive Him still, the dear Christ enters program at the Episcopal church on the snowin. covered street.

He dipped his pen in ink and hurried on. the peace of the Christ child this Christmas season.

His pen began to write again.

He is THE CHILD, being born in us each new day, and He is THE LORD, holding us—His small, contented child. The epiphany of mysteries.

The gift of Bethlehem being lived out in our hearts.

Today-every day we bow our heads and ask the living Christ to enter in and be born with in is a day of birthing, a day of new ness of life coming to steal into our consciousness and bring us to a state of peace. And where was this gift of peace given? In the glitter and gauze of glamorous ceremony; in the quiet reverent solitude of monastery? No. In the rush hour of deadlines and hectic unmoral schedules. In towns being mobbed with strangers, bodies aching with fatigue and nerves worn thin.

Unfitting, you say? But what better place to give the Prince of Peace than in a place where He is needed.

To stressed souls, He brings release.

To tense minds, he brings the reminder that He decrees time by His upraised arm. To weary bodies, He brings the rest that comes from knowing He carries His Children within the palm of his hand.

He is THE CHILD, being born in us each new day, and He is THE LORD, holding us—His small, contented child. The epiphany of mysteries. The gift of Bethlehem being lived out in our hearts.

4 hot drinks!

Havin’ fun in the kitchen

ecipes

Ah, winter is upon us, people! And while snowball fights, sledding, ice skating and walking in a winter wonderland can be everything that is lovely, it can also be insanely cold. I know that when I am outside in this winter weather for more than an hour; I basically turn into an icicle.

Nothing is better than drinking a warm cup of hot chocolate after being outside in the dreary winter weather that has graced us with its presence, but after a while, the same old recipe can get a bit dull. I’ve searched far and wide to find some of the most creative and tasty hot chocolate recipes to warm up even the coldest of hearts.

Citrus Cider Makes: 13 servings Serving Size: 6 oz.

Prep: 10 min.

ingredients 2 quarts apple cider or apple juice 1 cup orange juice* 1/2 cup lemon juice* 1/4 cup honey 8 inches stick cinnamon, broken 8 whole cloves 3 slices fresh ginger

Tip: 

If you squeeze fresh oranges and lemons for the juice, use a vegetable peeler to cut several wide strips of peel from the fruit, avoiding the white pith underneath. Add the peel to the spice bag.

directions 1.In a 3 1/2- to 4-quart slow cooker, combine cider, orange juice, lemon juice, and honey. Stir to dissolve honey.

2.For a spice bag, cut a 6-inch square from a double thickness of 100%-cotton cheesecloth. Place cinnamon, cloves, and ginger in the center of the cloth. Bring the corners together and tie closed with 100%-cotton kitchen string. Add spice bag to slow cooker.

3.Cover; cook on low-heat setting for 5 to 6 hours or on high-heat setting for 2 1/2 to 3 hours. Remove the spice bag and discard.

Hot Chocolate Makes: 12 servings Serving Size: ½ cup Prep: 15 min. ingredients 4 cups milk 2 cups half-and-half 1 1/2 cups semisweet chocolate pieces 1 teaspoon instant espresso coffee powder 1 teaspoon ground cinnamon 1/2 teaspoon ground chipotle chile pepper Sweetened whipped cream (optional) Ground cinnamon (optional) directions 1.In a 3 1/2- to 4-quart slow cooker, combine milk, half-and-half, chocolate pieces, coffee powder, 1 teaspoon cinnamon, and ground chipotle chile pepper.

2.Cover; cook on low-heat setting for 4 hours or on high-heat setting for 2 hours, whisking vigorously once halfway through cooking time. Whisk well before serving. If desired, garnish each serving with whipped cream and sprinkle with cinnamon.

Mulled Cranberry Punch

Makes: 12 servings Serving Size: 6 oz.

Prep: 15 min. ingredients 1 orange 8 inches stick cinnamon, broken 8 whole cloves 4 whole allspice 132 ounce bottle cranberry juice 111 1/2 ounce can frozen white grape-raspberry juice concentrate 4 cups water directions 1.Use a vegetable peeler to remove several 2- to 3-inch-long sections of orange peel from the orange, avoiding the white pith underneath. Juice the orange.

2.For a spice bag, cut a 6-inch square from a double thickness of 100%-cotton cheesecloth. Place orange peel, cinnamon, cloves, and allspice in the center of the square. Bring the corners together and tie closed with 100%-cotton kitchen string.

3.In a 3 1/2- to 4-quart slow cooker, combine cranberry juice, juice concentrate, the water, orange juice, and spice bag.

4.Cover; cook on low-heat setting for 4 to 6 hours or on high-heat setting for 2 to 2 1/2 hours. Remove spice bag

Peanut Butter

Cocoa

Makes: 9 servings Serving Size: 8 oz.

Prep: 10 min. ingredients 1 cup instant milk chocolate or chocolate fudge cocoa mix 8 cups hot water 3/4 cup chocolate-flavored syrup 1/4 cup creamy peanut butter 1 1/2 teaspoons vanilla directions 1.Place cocoa mix in a 3-1/2- or 4-quart slow cooker. Carefully stir in hot water. Stir in chocolate-flavored syrup.

2.Cover and cook on low-heat setting for 3 to 4 hours or on high-heat setting for 1-1/2 to 2 hours. Whisk in peanut butter and vanilla until smooth. Ladle cocoa into mugs. Makes 9 (8-ounce) servings.

Drink Tips: 

Take Your Time

Never let the milk boil when making hot chocolate. Heat it slowly until just steaming to prevent lumps or a skin from forming.



Plan Ahead

Mix several large pitchers of the basic ingredients of your punchbowl drink in advance. The last few steps can be done in smaller batches as needed.

From the Readers’ Perspective:

Bonners Ferry, Idaho

-Aleah Litterell

Bonners Ferry, Idaho Idaho is a beautiful place...with fresh air, mountains, and oh-,so many trees!

Although winter is harsh and cold and I don't particularly like winter...the summers are perfect and I would never want to move away from my home!

My name is Aleah Litterell and I am 13 years old. I have 5 other siblings than myself and we live �off the grid"meaning....we have no microwave, no dryer, and no dish washer.(that's pretty much what it means.) We live on the very tip of Idaho a forty-five minute drive and you'll find yourself in Canada.

Our closest neighbors are our Grandparents who live 1/2 a mile from us Moyie Springs-my hometown it is so tiny many times it doesn't even make it on the maps. It consists mainly of three buildings ,a gas station ,a bar, and a lumber mill, so ya pretty small. We mainly shop in a bigger town than Moyie springs but is still a small town

called Bonners Ferry. I go to our church school at which my dad teaches, it is called K.V.M.S(Kootenai Valley Mennonite Church)with an average of 75 students .Oh, and for

the record I HATE softball, there is no point in playing and there never

the record I HATE softball, there is no point in playing and there never will be! If you've never been out to Idaho you should come, I could take you swimming in a cold, rushing river, I could take you hiking, we could pick gallons of huckleberries, we could even go mushroom hunting ,Soooooo if you ever make your way to the northwest swing into Idaho!

;

Blogger

: http://stoltzfusphotography.wordpress.com/

I’m Andrea Stoltzfus from Perry NY, and I love photography and designing. A gorgeous sunset, full moon, a beautiful flower, sun’s morning rays, or a cute little child is all it takes for me to run for the camera. I love doing formal photo shoots, or casually taking pictures at home or wherever I am Designing is also something I love to do. Invitation, greeting cards, pictures, etc. I also mount my pictures on a board which makes for a beautiful plaque to display. If you are interested in purchasing any of my work, having something designed, or if you would like for me to do a photo shoot for you, you can contact me at andrea1998@frontiernet.net. My prayer is that God alone would be honored and glorified and His’ kingdom would be advanced.

Christmas chills Christmas through Elisa’s eyes

I absolutely love Christmas time! The beautiful Christmas music , the snow flakes that fall from the skies, the joy of family and, of course, you can't forget, cuddling up to the fire with a book and hot chocolate.

Christmas is nothing but joyfulness- a joy that can't be put into words, a joy of the coming of the Savior.

As we approach the season, our lives are nothing but busy. Preparing gifts for our loved ones and eagerly awaiting the arrival of Christmas day.

Its almost difficult to understand the magnitude of joy that centers around the season, That even in the middle of summer can one be excited of the special month.

As Christians- Christmas should be ever so much more special. Rejoicing in the birth of our Savior who came to this world for us. His love so great, that he would die for us.

When I think of Christmas- my train of thought gets lost in a whirlwind of memories, excitement and opportunity- I guess you could call it:

Christmas Chills: Christmas is filled with smells, sights, and soundsmany of which trigger a memory that isn't forgotten.

Candy canes The beautiful shepherd staff, comes in many different tastes and fragrances. It can be used as a centerpiece {seen in December, 2013 issue}and simply is a sweet part of Christmas- that can never be forgotten!

Christmas Music What is better than Christmas music playing while family celebrates togetherness? Christmas music encouraging you on, while baking your Christmas cookies‌. Being the music lover as I am- Christmas isn’t Christmas without Music.

Christmas cookies What would Christmas be without Christmas cookies!? The smell of sweet sugar and icing plastered on the table- the little children chatting about their hard worked creation.{and Christmas music in the background!} Even though they hardly last till after Christmas- the effort and fun is all worth it!

Snow* And the snow! I must admit, I don't like the cold- but snow with the cold is pretty perfect.

Snowball fights and sledding!

(God must have had so much fun creating snow!) To those of you who don't have snow- I think I’ll just sit here and cry for youbecause Christmas NEEDS snow.

Family The love if family goes so well with Christmas- that with out them its like brushing your teeth without tooth paste.

BAD. Family plays such a big role in Christmas. Dad reading the Christmas story- your little sister squealing in delight...

What I have written is just a few of the many

Christmas Chills what are yours?.

What is Christmas TO YOU?

::Christmas described by our readers

How do you Describe Christmas?

How does it make you feel?

Well Christmas is kinda hard to describe! I love Christmas is usually a very happy time where we the cinnamon smell when you walk into the door of a store and the bustle of christmas can remember what Jesus did for us. He went through so much for us so we--sinners--could be shoppers. I think Christmas is such a joyful forgiven! All through December, I get a feeling of season. Although I might describe this years festive happiness. I think overall, Christmas Christmas as scary since my brother's girlfriend makes me feel loved and blessed! will most likely be spending it with us for the first -Harmoni Ropp time. You can't help but feel happy and giving when you're buying Christmas gifts for your Christmas makes me feel happy and cheerful. family. :) It makes me feel loved yet so unworthy Carols are so beautiful and I often enjoy singing of all the wonderful presents I get! –MariElla them months after Christmas is over.

Reinford -Andrea Martin

Our Readers Share: First Christmas Andrea Martin This will be my first Christmas without my grandpa. A first Christmas without his boisterous laugh, his hilarious stories.

A first Christmas Eve for my grandma to sit by the fire, alone. A first Christmas without his strong presence, leading the family on. See...last year, December (2012) my dear grandpa passed away, after suffering from lung cancer for about 3 months. He suffered horribly near the end. It was so sad to watch. He just pleaded with his Jesus to take him HOME. Home to Heaven was where my grandpa longed to me. Finally, 3 days after a prayer-filled Christmas, my grandpa went to be with his Lord, finally at peace. I don't really remember much about that Christmas. Just that I was sad. I was sad for family, who was watching my grandpa suffer. I was sad for my aunts/uncles/cousins out of state who weren't here to hold his hand in his final hours. I felt sad for my grandma, who's strong faith in God and many prayers were the only things that kept her going. I felt most sadness for my grandpa. I hate to see suffering, and his was terrible.

As the family and out-of-staters gathered for the viewing and funeral I watched as they hugged and comforted each other. I also observed them slowly, hesitantly laughing again, sharing jokes and memories of Grandpa. As the months passed, the pain grew less in my family, and in my heart, healing began to take place. The memories of him in his hospital bed (at their house, he was never at the hospital) began to fade, and older, beautiful memories began to take their place. Memories of his stories, which he could hardly finish sometimes for laughing. He would throw back his head and roar and everybody around the table would burst into laughter without knowing the joke. My family was very tight-knit and my grandpa was the head, the rock of the family.

There were other firsts beside this first Christmas; the first family reunion, their first anniversary, grandma's first birthday by herself. The first Easter, the first Valentine's Day. This Christmas, our first without our grandpa, will be hard, but we will cling to our hope that he is without suffering in Heaven. That we will see him someday again. And through the ashes of death, a beautiful Christmas will arrive.

For us, the first Christmas without him. But for him, his first Christmas in the Presence of his Lord. He will spend his Christmas with the very Reason for Christmas. And in that hope, we will have a wonderful first Christmas.

If Only They Could Talk!

Septembers issue: “What is the little girl saying?”

Readers Response: “I’ m trying to whisper a secret to you!” – Denise Amstutz “Can I have a ride?” – Macy Sheaman “What on earth is that thing!?”- Sierra Zehr “Can we give more than one?’”- Regan Strite “Mama! He’s HUGE!” -Harmoni Ropp “Mommy, look at those big ears!” –Connie Zimmerman "Whoa you're really tall! Is it because your Mama made you eat all your vegetables?!" –Jessica Ann “Wow you are very fat, and very tall.” –Tara Danner

And the next: What is the dog thinking?

We love to hear your response! Send in your answer!

Celebrate 2014

Bring some optimism in the year! Start the new year out with a empty jar! When something you are thankful for happens write it down and put it in the jar! The next year what wonderful things happened.

All you need is a few different colors/flavors of KoolAid. This time around, I used red, green, & blue. You make the KoolAid according to package directions & then pour some of it into ice trays – a different ice tray for each color. As the ice cubes melt, the ‘potion’ will turn cool colors & change flavors too!

Life should not only be lived, It should be

celebrated.

Fun Party Hats!

Total Time 1 hourAges all-ages

You can count on our shiny hats to make the ideal toppers for a New Year's party, but there's no reason to confine them to the countdown. Tailor the decorations to the mood and theme of your holiday party: glue on large menorah-shaped sequins (available at party supply stores) or festoon the hats with mini candy canes. Note: not all these materials are required to make each hat.

What you'll need 

Metallic poster board



Scissors



Double-sided foam tape



Thumbtack



Soft elastic thread (22 inches long)



2 large paper clips



Shiny metallic pipe cleaners



Duct tape



Shiny metallic pom-poms

How to make it 1. To make a cone-shaped hat, cut a semicircle with a 14-inch diameter from the poster board. Roll it into a cone, adjust its size to fit the child, and seal the seam with doublesided foam tape.

2.

To make a chin strap, use the thumbtack to poke a hole through each side of the hat near the bottom, thread one end of the elastic through each hole, and knot a few times to secure it.

3. To make a headband-style hat, cut out a strip of poster board about 26 inches long and 3 to 7 inches wide (depending on your design). Cut a decorative design along one edge of the strip, fit it around the child's forehead, and secure the seam with two large paper clips.

4. To decorate the hats, wrap pipe cleaners around pom-poms to make antennae or coil them around a pen to make spirals. To attach a pipe cleaner decoration to the hat, use the thumbtack to poke a hole through the hat, push 1 inch of the pipe cleaner through the hole to the inside of the hat, and duct-tape it down. Attach pompoms to the hat with double-sided foam tape.

Traveling into the land of:

Paris

Discover

Paris

Discover Paris, the most beautiful city on the planet! Who hasn't dreamt of wandering along the quays of the Seine River, of strolling across some of its most famous bridges, or meandering through l’Île Saint-Louis and its romantic, narrow streets.

As the capital city of France, Paris is also the most heavily populated. Inhabited since prehistoric times (4000BC), the city displays the footprints of its history. From the GalloRoman period, when Paris was called Lutèce, up until now in the times of modern construction, Paris is updating itself constantly, whilst always keeping its spirit in its beauty.

Intellectuals, painters, writers and musicians from Montmartre, Montparnasse and Saint-Germain-des-Prés and all across the globe have expressed their love for 'the City of Lights'. The city has a vast cultural heritage, a rich history and an artistic life with many festivals and mythical cabarets such as the Moulin Rouge. All this together will make your travel experience both enjoyable and enlightening.

The French capital is one of the most important tourist destinations in the world; 27 million people travel to Paris each year. Numerous sightseeing tours are offered to see theplaces to visit in Paris, the dozens of prestigious museums, such as The Louvre, the most visited in the world. Amongst its 280 monuments and mythical spots are the majestic ChampsÉlysées avenue and the Eiffel Tower. The Eiffel Tower overlooks the entire city and offers a view of the Champ-deMars and the Notre Dame cathedral in Paris, a Gothic masterpiece. Furthermore, historical parks like the Tuileries or the Luxembourg Gardens bring beauty to Paris with their open green spaces. Take advantage of Pariscityvision's quality of service to visit Paris, known as Gray Line Paris, and recognized as the local expert of Gray Line network. The French capital is an unforgettable town.

Paris population: 2.211 million (2008) Paris, capital of France Tourist Rate: 30 Million per year

"Most visited city in the world"

Unforgettable town!

Paris Recipe

Crab cone with cilantro Crab and coriander are paired in this delicious recipe and the addition of ginger and a citrus vinaigrette give a flavor burst.

Serves: 8

Preparation time: 20 minutes In this recipe:

  

brik pastry sheets crab meat cilantro (coriander) candied ginger



1. Crab and cilantro: Peel the bell peppers, remove the white membranes and seeds from the insides then cut into a brunoise. Peel the pear and cut into a brunoise. Cut candied ginger into a brunoise.

Combine the crab meat with the different brunoises et refrigerate.

Prepare citrus vinaigrette: Make a vinaigrette with the orange and lime juices and the olive oil.

2. Pre-heat the oven to 160°C. 3. Cone: Make 8 cone shapes out of aluminum paper. Trim each brik pastry sheet into a 8 cm by 5 cm rectangle; then cut each diagonally to make triangles. Brush with melted butter, roll around the aluminum cones to form cone shapes and bake in the oven for about 8 minutes. Cool on a rack.

Carefully remove from the aluminum cones To serve: Dress the crab-brunoise with the vinaigrette, add the finely chopped fresh cilantro and fill the cones just before serving. Decorate with the micro greens as desired.

bell pepper Principal ingredients 4 brik pastry sheets (warka dough) 50 g butter, melted Crab and cilantro 250 g crab meat 20 g green bell pepper 20 g yellow bell pepper 20 g red bell pepper 20 g pear 10 g candied ginger Citrus vinaigrette 1 tbsp orange juice 1 tbsp lime juice 3 tbsp olive oil 10 g cilantro (coriander), chopped Decoration 1 packet greens Apple Blossom 1 packet micro greens Ghoa cress

Story Corner Clean Blood

The day is over, you are driving home. You tune in your radio. You hear a little blurb about a little village in India where some villagers have died suddenly, strangely, of a flu that has never been seen before. It's not influenza, but three or four fellows are dead, and it's kind of interesting.

They're sending some doctors over there to investigate it.

You don't think much about it, but on Sunday, coming home from church, you hear another radio spot. Only they say it's not three villagers, it's 30,000 villagers in the back hills of this particular area of India, and it's on TV that night. CNN runs a little blurb; people are heading there from the disease center in Atlanta because this disease strain has never been seen before.

By Monday morning when you get up, it's the lead story.

For it's not just India; it's Pakistan, Afghanistan, Iran, and before you know it, you're hearing this story everywhere and they have coined it now as "the mystery flu". The President has made some comment that he and everyone are praying and hoping that all will go well over there. But everyone is wondering, "How are we going to contain it?"

That's when the President of France makes an announcement that shocks Europe. He is closing their borders. No flights from India, Pakistan, or any of the countries where this thing has been seen.

That night you are watching a little bit of CNN before going to bed. Your jaw hits your chest when a weeping woman is translated from a French news program into English: "There's a man lying in a hospital in Paris dying of the mystery flu. "It has come to Europe. Panic strikes. As best they can tell, once you get it, you have it for a week and you don't know it. Then you have four days of unbelievable symptoms. Then you die. Britain closes it's borders, but it's too late. South Hampton, Liverpool, North Hampton, and it's Tuesday morning when the President of the United States makes the following announcement: "Due to a national security risk, all flights to and from Europe and Asia have been canceled. If your loved ones are overseas, I'm sorry.

They cannot come back until we find a cure for this thing."

Within four days our nation has been plunged into an unbelievable fear. People are selling little masks for your face. People are talking about what if it comes to this country, and preachers on Tuesday are saying, "It's the scourge of God. "It's Wednesday night and you are at a church prayer meeting when somebody runs in from the parking lot and says, "Turn on a radio, turn on a radio."

While the church listens to a little transistor radio with a microphone stuck up to it, the announcement is made," Two women are lying in a Long Island hospital dying from the mystery flu." Within hours it seems, this thing just sweeps across the country.

People are working around the clock trying to find an antidote. Nothing is working. California, Oregon, Arizona, Florida, Massachusetts. It's as though it's just sweeping in from the borders. Then, all of a sudden the news comes out. The code has been broken. A cure can be found. A vaccine can be made. It's going to take the blood of somebody who hasn't been infected, and so, sure enough, all through the Midwest, through all those channels of emergency broadcasting, everyone is asked to do one simple thing: "Go to your downtown hospital and have your blood type taken. That's all we ask of you. When you hear the sirens go off in your neighborhood, please make your way quickly, quietly, and safely to the hospitals." Sure enough, when you and your family get down there late on that Friday night, there is a long line, and they've got nurses and doctors coming out and pricking fingers and taking blood and putting labels on it.

Your wife and your kids are out there, and they take your blood type and they say, "Wait here in the parking lot and if we call your name, you can be dismissed and go home."

You stand around scared with your neighbors, wondering what in the world is going on, and that this is the end of the world. Suddenly a young man comes running out of the hospital screaming. He's yelling a name and waving a clipboard. What? He yells it again! And your son tugs on your jacket and says, "Daddy, that's me." Before you know it, they have grabbed your boy. "Wait a minute, hold it!" And they say, "It's okay, his blood is clean. His blood is pure.

We want to make sure he doesn't have the disease. We think he has got the right type."

Five tense minutes later, out come the doctors and nurses, crying and hugging one another some are even laughing.

It's the first time you have seen anybody laugh in a week, and an old doctor walks up to you and says, "Thank you, sir. Your son's blood type is perfect. It's clean, it is pure, and we can make the vaccine." As the word begins to spread all across that parking lot full of folks, people are screaming and praying and laughing and crying.

But then the gray-haired doctor pulls you and your wife aside and says, "May we see you for a moment? We didn't realize that the donor would be a minor and we need. . . we need you to sign a consent form." You begin to sign and then you see that the number of pints of blood to be taken is empty. "H-h-h-how many pints?" And that is when the old doctor's smile fades and he says, "We had no idea it would be a little child. We weren't prepared. We need it all!" "But but..." "You don't understand. We are talking about the world here. Please sign. We - we need it all - we need it all!" "But can't you give him a transfusion?" "If we had clean blood we would. Can you sign? Would you sign?" In numb silence you do. Then they say, "Would you like to have a moment with him before we begin?"

Can you walk back? Can you walk back to that room where he sits on a table saying, "Daddy? Mommy? What's going on?" Can you take his hands and say, "Son, your mommy and I love you, and we would never ever let anything happen to you that didn't just have to be.

Do you understand that?" And when that old doctor comes back in and says, "I'm sorry, we've - we've got to get started. People all over the world are dying." Can you leave? Can you walk out while he is saying, "Dad? Mom? Dad? Why - why have you forsaken me?"

And then next week, when they have the ceremony to honor your son, and some folks sleep through it, and some folks don't even come because they go to the lake, and some folks come with a pretentious smile and just pretend to care. Would you want to jump up and say, "MY SON DIED! DON'T YOU CARE?" Is that what God is saying? "MY SON DIED. DON'T YOU KNOW HOW MUCH I CARE?" "Father, seeing it from your eyes breaks our hearts. Maybe now we begin to comprehend the great love you have for us. Amen "

-- Author Unknown

The man who wanted to move the mountain began with the small stones.

-Chinese proverb

Sheer Joy-Oh the sheer joy of it!

Living with Thee, God of the universe, Lord of a tree, Maker of mountains, Lover of me!

Oh the sheer joy of it!

Breathing Thy air, Morning is dawning, Gone every care, All the world's singing, "God's everywhere."

Oh the sheer joy of it!

Working with God, Running His errands, Waiting His nod, Building His heaven, On common sod.

Oh the sheer joy of it!

Ever to be Living in glory, Living with Thee!

Lord of tommorrow, Lover of me!

-Ralph Spaulding Cushman Contributed by MariElla Reinford

I love Photography! | {The Readers Share Their Love With Photography!}

Trina Swartzentruber Laura Danner

Sylvia Yoder

Breanna Reinford

Andrea Stoltzfus

MariElla Reinford

As we have therefore opportunity, let us do good unto all men, especially unto them who are of the household of faith.

Galatians 6:10

_______________________ As most of you know, my name is Elesa and I live in Liberia, West Africa with my family. I enjoy it, though it definitely comes with its struggles. We are here with Christian Aid Ministries (CAM). The base in Liberia was established in 1999 as an INGO, and they work in close collaboration with the office of CAM in Ohio. CAM in Ohio oversees work in over 30 countries. Our goal and desire as a team is to bring the Gospel of Jesus Christ to a lost and dying world. Presently there are three families, two single men, and two single girls that live on the compound here. We also have quite a few natives working with us. Our team travels all over the country of Liberia to deliver food, agriculture tools, medicines, and building supplies to orphanages, communities and clinics. Our aid comes on container ships from the USA warehouse.

‌to bring the Gospel of Jesus Christ to a lost and dying world.

In our AGRICULTURE program, we distribute tools, seeds, and fertilizer to the needy farmers. Our Agriculture director sets up tools banks—a group of farmers who collaborate together, using supplies for CAM. We also distribute FOOD CARTONS to the elderly people, widows, or handicapped. In the box are food essentials such as rice, beans, flour, and oil.

Our MEDICAL PROGRAM supplies free medicines to approximately 36 clinics and two hospitals on a monthly basis.

We also supply milk for malnourished children and babies.

We also have a SPECIAL NEEDS program. This provides help to people in crisis.

In the HOPE-FOR-THEHANDICAPPED program, we help the handicapped by supplying wheelchairs, crutches, housing, and other aid.

In our ORPHAN SPONSORSHIP program, we provide food, clothing, medicines, Christian literature, and some schooling costs for 1,587 children at approximately 42 orphanages and 974 children in 17 churches.

When we first came to Liberia, we were assigned the medical program. One year later, they asked us to take up being the director of the orphan sponsorship program. We really enjoy it, for it gives us a chance to get to know and interact with many youth and children. I love it because i get the interaction with children, which I love. Sometimes the staff here on the compound (3 families, 2 single guys, and 2 girls) goes to an orphanage for a day to have a fun day for the children. We bowl with cups full of miscellaneous items.

Sometimes there are small inflatable balls, pencils, erasers, crayons, candy, bubbles, about anything that children love. They throw a soccer ball at the cups and see if they can at least knock down one. We play games with them, do face painting, and most times listen to them sing.

We have an annual youth retreat for the youth ages 15-19. We teach them, have a singing competition, Bible quiz, and of course, eat and recreate.

I also enjoy going and passing out baby bundles at hospitals. We take literature and bundles of baby clothes, cloth diapers, blankets, and etc. And, it’s not usually a problem to get into the ICU here. That’s one thing I enjoy doing. They love what they get, and are very grateful. Some go to the hospital with not clothes for the baby, so you get to dress the baby first!

God has promised to us that: “… it shall not return unto me void…” We are only planting the seeds! If you want to know how to help; prayer is the most appreciated thing!

So shall my word be that goeth forth out of my mouth:

return unto me Void, but it shall accomplish that

it shall not

not

which I please, and it shall prosper in the thing whereto I sent it.

-Isaiah 55:11

Ending Note Girls; Every time this time of year comes around I simply cannot contain myself. The decorations, the Christmas cheer, the wonderful music, the hot chocolate and snow.... but most of all the celebration of the birth of Christ. I hope you have been as blessed with some of the article's in this issue as I have.

You wouldnt believe it, but this magazine has been through so much! And with out my wonderful coeditor you wouldn't be done looking at this issue.

Because of schoolwork and busy schedules it looks like we will have a issue every other month. Hopefully we can be more relaxed and take our time to make the issue more enjoyable. This also means that our deadline will be sooner than normal- and we will rely on your wonderful contributions!

We are also looking for a full-time photographer(s) that would be willing to stage props and that has experience. We would love to rely more on the photographer rather than the internet. If you are interested we would love to hear from you.

And for those who love crafts- we would love for you to try out crafts we send to you- and take pictures of your finished project!

We have reached our 70 mark with subscribers! Since September we have had 12. I especially want to thank each of you who took the time to forward the magazine to your friends. We certainly wouldn't be here with out you.

This is just a beginning to our new design. As you know we hope to make our issues more creative and God centered. We would love to hear your response to our new design- and any new ideas that come to mind!

We wish you a very happy New Year of 2014!

With LoveElisa

Spring IssueMarch, 2014

Topics: - Squished in Small Place - My Testimony - Readers Share: My sister and I

New Sections: - The Team Shares - Get to Know Me

Extra features will be shown in issue Note: Some sections may be taken out and replaced because lack of materials

Deadline: February, 14

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