Hope for Women Fall 2014

Natalie grant takes us to church

Bethany Hamilton

Living a Full Life

scandalous

Olivia Pope Fall Fashions

Debit vs Credit

You’ll never believe the answer!

Slow-Cooker Rescue for Fast Pace Life

Gladys Knight uses her gifts

to bless others visit:hopeforwomenmag.com fall 2014

Understand the Bible, and fall in love with its Author.

The NIV Discover God’s Heart Devotional Bible is a one-year reading Bible that has 312 engaging devotions which help you make the connection between what you read and your relationship with God. You’ll be inspired by devotional segments such as; God’s Story, The King’s Heart and daily insight.

For more information visit zondervan.com or wherever bibles are sold today.

in this issue Vol. 6 No. 4

16

Beauty Profile: Kim Roxie /Lamix Beauty

By TaShae Hedgespeth

20 fashion note: What She’s Wearing Scandalous Fall Fashions

By Vivian Swinson

22 Her Style: Jennifer Lopez Timeless Sense Of Fashion

By Carralyce Buford

It Takes a Church

COVER CREDITS Photographer: Dominick Guillemot

Natalie builds a creative platform that positively displays the fun, the confusion, and the ultimate joys of dating.

features 8

24

Bethany Hamilton

by Brittney Reel

Encouraging women to make healthier choices have passion for life and live for God

By Tonya Dixon

14

Hope to Conceive

Gessie Thompson knew it was for a greater purpose

By Tonya Dixon

28 25 Women Who Inspire 2014 A courageous fortress of women in leadership ByJoanne LeFlore

in every issue 5

Editor’s Page

7

HOPE Mail

Angelia White

24 What Matters Most…

An Interview with Gladys Knight

By Natalie Merrill

We hear from you!

q3 2014 | hopeforwomenmag.com 1

Understand the Bible, and fall in love with its Author.

The NIV Discover God’s Heart Devotional Bible is a one-year reading Bible that has 312 engaging devotions which help you make the connection between what you read and your relationship with God. You’ll be inspired by devotional segments such as; God’s Story, The King’s Heart and daily insight.

For more information visit zondervan.com or wherever bibles are sold today.

in this issue Vol. 6 No. 4

16

Beauty Profile: Kim Roxie /Lamix Beauty

By TaShae Hedgespeth

20 fashion note: What She’s Wearing Scandalous Fall Fashions

By Vivian Swinson

22 Her Style: Jennifer Lopez Timeless Sense Of Fashion

By Carralyce Buford

It Takes a Church

COVER CREDITS Photographer: Dominick Guillemot

Natalie builds a creative platform that positively displays the fun, the confusion, and the ultimate joys of dating.

features 8

24

Bethany Hamilton

by Brittney Reel

Encouraging women to make healthier choices have passion for life and live for God

By Tonya Dixon

14

Hope to Conceive

Gessie Thompson knew it was for a greater purpose

By Tonya Dixon

28 25 Women Who Inspire 2014 A courageous fortress of women in leadership ByJoanne LeFlore

in every issue 5

Editor’s Page

7

HOPE Mail

Angelia White

24 What Matters Most…

An Interview with Gladys Knight

By Natalie Merrill

We hear from you!

q3 2014 | hopeforwomenmag.com 1

in this issue | vol 6

inspire My Eyes 48 Open Accepting His Grace

By Crystal Stine

WHEN SHE IS RESCUED WE ARE THERE TO

beauty 14

11 Best Drugstore Buys Under $11!

By Brandie Gilliam

life

49 Best Way to just Chill Out! Tips on calming down

By Marita Kinney

Finance

20 Education: A Team Support

food 38 Slow-Cooker Rescue for Fast Pace Life

By LeAnn Rice

home 46 Home Transitioning from Summer to Fall with Kim Myles

Develop a winning educational plan

By Chris Bavender

By Vetta Cash

21

Why Debit Is Always Better Than Credit

By Rachel Cruze

Entertainment 35 The Guide

(Best Books, Movies & Music)

By Alissa Rogowski

food 36 Hope, Love, and a Whisk: Breakfast with the Savior Don’t Make Breakfast So Fast

By Tori Winkelman

40 Use Fall to Prepare for End-of-Year Holidays

By Chef Hardette Harris

2 hopeforwomenmag.com | q3 2014

Relationships

HELP

Me & The Girls Hope Bag Mission BENEFITS SURVIVORS RESCUED FROM HUMAN TRAFFICKING

Ask how you can help us fill 1,000 emergency personal care bags for our girls.

Contact us at HOPE@MEANDTHEGIRLS.COM

37 Finding Time for the We Love

By Darlene Schacht

41

The Compassion in Decluttering People

Sometimes the right thing to do is let go

By Sherry Gareis

health 44 The Skinny Confidential

By Alissa Rogowski

45 Use the Best of Fall to Bring Out the Best in You

By Renee Wiggins

“Every woman and girl deserves to feel safe, valuable and beautiful.”

Sharon Hackney-Robinson, CEO & Founder Me & The Girls Alternative Skin Care, LLC Hope, Heart and Beauty / Hope Bag Mission, Director www.meandthegirls.com

in this issue | vol 6

inspire My Eyes 48 Open Accepting His Grace

By Crystal Stine

beauty 14

11 Best Drugstore Buys Under $11!

By Brandie Gilliam

life

49 Best Way to just Chill Out! Tips on calming down

By Marita Kinney

Finance 21

Why Debit Is Always Better Than Credit

food 38 Slow-Cooker Rescue for Fast Pace Life

By LeAnn Rice

home 46 Home Transitioning from Summer to Fall with Kim Myles

By Chris Bavender

By Rachel Cruze

Entertainment

Relationships

35 The Guide

37 Finding Time for the We Love

By Darlene Schacht

(Best Books, Movies & Music)

By Alissa Rogowski

food 36 Hope, Love, and a Whisk: Breakfast with the Savior Don’t Make Breakfast So Fast

By Tori Winkelman

40 Use Fall to Prepare for End-of-Year Holidays

By Chef Hardette Harris

41

The Compassion in Decluttering People

Sometimes the right thing to do is let go

By Sherry Gareis

health 44 The Skinny Confidential

By Alissa Rogowski

45 Use the Best of Fall to Bring Out the Best in You

By Renee Wiggins

2  hopeforwomenmag.com | q3 2014

editor’s page | The Best of You!

WHEN it’s BEYOND our IMAGINATION . . .

WHEN we THINK it’s TOO LATE . . .

WHEN it’s TOO DARK to SEE . . .

The BEST of YOU! Vol. 6 No. 4

CAN WE TRUST A GOD who gives us different answers than we pray for?

Who only fully reveals himself when we look back? Who lets us walk in darkness for months (and sometimes years) at a time? In Finding Faith in the Dark, Laurie Short says yes, and through her story and the stories of others, she reveals a God who is able to transform the dark chapters of our lives into opportunities of grace.

THAT’S WHY YOU have to HOLD ON.

GOD can SHOW UP where you LEAST EXPECT HIM TO BE.

Editor in Chief Angelia L. White

President & Chief Executive Officer Angelia L. White

Creative Director Chandia Brennen

Business & Human Resource Director Tredina Fowlkes

Content Manager Natalie Merrill

Marketing (Contracted) Prosync Consulting Jamila Guyton www.prosyncconsulting.com

deputy Art Designer Joanne Caines

Aministrative & Marketing Assistant Gail Harry, Denise Hurt, Lauren Santee, Chantel White

Copy Editor Tenita Johnson Contributors

Contributors

Chef Hardette Harris, TaShae Hedgespeth, Marita Kinney, Joanna LeFlore, Chef Hardette Harris, Ke’Aundra McIntyre, Brittney Reel, LeAnn Rice, Alissa Rogowski, Darlene Schacht, Vivian Swinson, Renee Wiggins, Tori Winkelman, Crystal Stine

Chef Hardette Harris, TaShae Hedgespeth, Marita Kinney, Joanna LeFlore, Chef Hardette Harris, Ke’Aundra McIntyre, Brittney Reel, LeAnn Rice, Alissa Rogowski, Darlene Schacht, Vivian Swinson, Renee Wiggins,

HOPE FOR WOMEN MAGAZINE LLC P.O. Box 3241, Muncie, Indiana 47307 www.hopeforwomenmag.com HOPE FOR WOMEN IS A REGISTERED TRADEMARK OWNED

BY HOPE FOR WOMEN MAGAZINE LLC COPYRIGHT 2014 cover CREDITS

Photography by Dominick Guillemot

The BEST of YOU

It is officially fall—my favorite time of the year! The leaves are slowly falling and changing colors, children are finally into the swing of things for the new school year, and the smell of pumpkin and spice is all around us.

In addition to fall, this is also the final quarter of the year! That’s right. You’ve got three months to accomplish every goals you set forth to complete when the year began.

This issue of Hope is all about you! As women, we spend so much of our lives pouring into others. If we’re not running the kids to school or extracurricular practices, or running businesses, we’re serving at our local churches or food banks. We so often stretch ourselves so paper thin.

Well, time to take time out for self!

This issue’s theme is “The Best of You.” Inside, we feature It Takes A Church. The new matchmaking show’s host, Dove and Grammy award artist Natalie Grant, graces the cover and shares her heartfelt journey of being a woman of faith in the entertainment industry. Grant is one of the most honored artists in CCM history and is already a five-time GMA (Gospel Music Association) Dove Award winner as “Female Vocalist of the Year.” On pg. 32, in “Get the Look and Make It Scandalicious,” Hope reviews the highly anticipated Olivia Pope collection by The Limited. Exactly what “Scandal” fans need. On pg. 20, pro surfer Bethany Hamilton encourages women to make healthier choices, have passion for life, and live their lives in God. We also had a chance to catch up with the amazing and legendary Gladys Knight, who shares how she uses her gift to bless others (pg.10). Last, but certainly not least, we share the profiles of Hope’s 25 Women Who Inspire 2014.

After thumbing through the page of this issue of Hope, you will certainly be inspired – to start the business that you’ve always wanted to start; to finish writing the book you’ve been working on for the last few years—you know, the one that between work, family, and friends you can’t seem to finish; to treat yourself to a massage or a mani/pedi; or light your favorite scented candle and enjoy an hour of relaxation in the tub. Whatever you do to unwind, de-stress, and let loose, do it!

We are much more effective in helping others when we’ve taken the time to rejuvenate ourselves. If you are tired, overwhelmed, and overworked, you won’t be any good to those around you—or to yourself.

As we prepare to transition into 2015, maximize the most of this final quarter of 2014! It’s not too late to finish what you started. You can do it! I believe in you.

Don’t ever stop hoping!

AVAILABLE WHEREVER BOOKS ARE SOLD. 4 hopeforwomenmag.com | q2 2014

q3 2014 | hopeforwomenmag.com 5

editor’s page | The Best of You!

WHEN it’s BEYOND our IMAGINATION . . .

WHEN we THINK it’s TOO LATE . . .

WHEN it’s TOO DARK to SEE . . .

The BEST of YOU! Vol. 6 No. 4

CAN WE TRUST A GOD who gives us different answers than we pray for?

Who only fully reveals himself when we look back? Who lets us walk in darkness for months (and sometimes years) at a time? In Finding Faith in the Dark, Laurie Short says yes, and through her story and the stories of others, she reveals a God who is able to transform the dark chapters of our lives into opportunities of grace.

THAT’S WHY YOU have to HOLD ON.

GOD can SHOW UP where you LEAST EXPECT HIM TO BE.

Editor in Chief Angelia L. White

President & Chief Executive Officer Angelia L. White

Creative Director Chandia Brennen

Business & Human Resource Director Tredina Fowlkes

Content Manager Natalie Merrill

Marketing (Contracted) Prosync Consulting Jamila Guyton www.prosyncconsulting.com

deputy Art Designer Joanne Caines

Aministrative & Marketing Assistant Gail Harry, Denise Hurt, Lauren Santee, Chantel White

Copy Editor Tenita Johnson Contributors

Contributors

Chef Hardette Harris, TaShae Hedgespeth, Marita Kinney, Joanna LeFlore, Chef Hardette Harris, Ke’Aundra McIntyre, Brittney Reel, LeAnn Rice, Alissa Rogowski, Darlene Schacht, Vivian Swinson, Renee Wiggins, Tori Winkelman, Crystal Stine

Chef Hardette Harris, TaShae Hedgespeth, Marita Kinney, Joanna LeFlore, Chef Hardette Harris, Ke’Aundra McIntyre, Brittney Reel, LeAnn Rice, Alissa Rogowski, Darlene Schacht, Vivian Swinson, Renee Wiggins,

HOPE FOR WOMEN MAGAZINE LLC P.O. Box 3241, Muncie, Indiana 47307 www.hopeforwomenmag.com HOPE FOR WOMEN IS A REGISTERED TRADEMARK OWNED

BY HOPE FOR WOMEN MAGAZINE LLC COPYRIGHT 2014 cover CREDITS

Photography by Dominick Guillemot

The BEST of YOU

It is officially fall—my favorite time of the year! The leaves are slowly falling and changing colors, children are finally into the swing of things for the new school year, and the smell of pumpkin and spice is all around us.

In addition to fall, this is also the final quarter of the year! That’s right. You’ve got three months to accomplish every goals you set forth to complete when the year began.

This issue of Hope is all about you! As women, we spend so much of our lives pouring into others. If we’re not running the kids to school or extracurricular practices, or running businesses, we’re serving at our local churches or food banks. We so often stretch ourselves so paper thin.

Well, time to take time out for self!

This issue’s theme is “The Best of You.” Inside, we feature It Takes A Church. The new matchmaking show’s host, Dove and Grammy award artist Natalie Grant, graces the cover and shares her heartfelt journey of being a woman of faith in the entertainment industry. Grant is one of the most honored artists in CCM history and is already a five-time GMA (Gospel Music Association) Dove Award winner as “Female Vocalist of the Year.” On pg. 32, in “Get the Look and Make It Scandalicious,” Hope reviews the highly anticipated Olivia Pope collection by The Limited. Exactly what “Scandal” fans need. On pg. 20, pro surfer Bethany Hamilton encourages women to make healthier choices, have passion for life, and live their lives in God. We also had a chance to catch up with the amazing and legendary Gladys Knight, who shares how she uses her gift to bless others (pg.10). Last, but certainly not least, we share the profiles of Hope’s 25 Women Who Inspire 2014.

After thumbing through the page of this issue of Hope, you will certainly be inspired – to start the business that you’ve always wanted to start; to finish writing the book you’ve been working on for the last few years—you know, the one that between work, family, and friends you can’t seem to finish; to treat yourself to a massage or a mani/pedi; or light your favorite scented candle and enjoy an hour of relaxation in the tub. Whatever you do to unwind, de-stress, and let loose, do it!

We are much more effective in helping others when we’ve taken the time to rejuvenate ourselves. If you are tired, overwhelmed, and overworked, you won’t be any good to those around you—or to yourself.

As we prepare to transition into 2015, maximize the most of this final quarter of 2014! It’s not too late to finish what you started. You can do it! I believe in you.

Don’t ever stop hoping!

AVAILABLE WHEREVER BOOKS ARE SOLD. 4 hopeforwomenmag.com | q2 2014

q3 2014 | hopeforwomenmag.com 5

“

quote | ERICA CAMBELL Natalie Grant

It isn’t as much a dating show but more saying to the world that we (Christians) are going to show another way to do it.”

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quote | ERICA CAMBELL Natalie Grant

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nyreepress.com

feature | Bethany Hamilton

Bethany Hamilton living a full life by to n ya d i xo n

Bethany Hamilton encourages women to make healthier choices, have passion for life and live a life in God. Oftentimes, a person’s most challenging obstacle in life can become her greatest source of determination and inspiration.

When surfer Bethany Hamilton lost her left arm in 2003 from a vicious, 14-foot tiger shark attack off Kauai’s North Shore in Hawaii, many people were convinced she would forever deny her love of the vast ocean and passion for surfing. Her actions and mentality proved them wrong—only one month after the incident, Hamilton was back doing what she loved. She couldn’t be denied and wouldn’t give up hope for her future as a professional surfer.

In 2007, her hope manifested when she was successfully able to transition from an amateur to a professional athlete. Hamilton has always been one to defy the odds—not only does her hope and determination stem from an unprecedented and exceptionally positive attitude (which her doctors attributed to her complication-free and speedy recovery), but she boldly relies on her faith in God as her ultimate source of strength and peace.

“Surfing was just something I had to get back out there and just do,” Hamilton said. “I could have been extremely fearful and just given it up [after the accident], but I guess just my passion and believing that God had directed my life in that way kept me going. It’s been amazing to see the different changes in my life since then. Just being able to be a light for Christ and share His truth with other people has been worth it all.”

The world has taken notice of her light, as her story has continued to spread. In 2011, her autobiography, Soul Surfer, was made into a major motion picture of the same name. With countless other books, products and events, Bethany uses her platform to showcase her innate talent and gift for surfing, as well as an avenue to encourage others to recognize their self-worths and embrace themselves through lives in Jesus Christ. It’s essentially the reason she wrote her latest book, Body and Soul: A Girls Guide to a Fit, Fun and Fabulous Life.

“I wrote the book to encourage females in their health and overall choices,” Hamilton said. “Body and Soul is not a diet book. Encouraging women in their faith through the book was really important to me. I wanted to let them know that their lives are full in Christ and to remind them that Jesus is the only one who can fulfill their lives through his gift of salvation and forgiveness, and it’s a wonderful and important thing to respect the bodies God has given them—whether it’s through health and fitness or even purity before marriage.”

Though Hamilton shares a bit of her own story of overcoming the odds, she really utilizes the book to encourage women—especially young girls—to do what they love without fear, maintain healthy lifestyles, and allow God to be the main thread woven throughout everything they do. Body and Soul also employs hands-on techniques that stimulate the physical, mental, and spiritual needs of virtually anyone. Readers are invited to write down their goals, feelings, fears, situations, dreams, and everything in between in the attempt to become better people. Hamilton’s book is a personified manual on how she 8 hope | q3 2014

Bethany Hamilton “When life throws crazy curve balls or different struggles—whether physical, spiritual, family, or friends—I just want to remind women that, no matter how they feel, Christ is still there, and His promises are still there for them.”

attempts to live her own life and includes: her own personal faith and fitness journey tidbits; instructions from professional and certified trainer, Dustin Dillbert; motivating and life-affirming scriptures and prayers; and hands-on healthy recipes, meal plans and easy, no-equipment-needed workouts.

Body image and self-awareness is an overriding theme throughout her book and was something Hamilton personally had to overcome; now she wants to encourage other women to do the same. She continues to remain passionate about living out her dreams and inspiring others, and, though she lost a part of her body, she gained a stronger understanding of the person she really is on the inside.

“God loves us just the way we are, no matter what we struggle with or are going through,” she said. “Through Him we can have a full and wonderful life, and though it’s not always going to be easy—you may have your own shark attacks or whatever your life attacks may be—God can overcome anything, and He’s there for us. When life throws crazy curve balls or different struggles—whether physical, spiritual, family, or friends—I just want to remind women that, no matter how they feel, Christ is still there, and His promises are still there for them.”

Hamilton’s line of products, including her new Cobian Sandals, can be found on her website at www.bethanyhamilton.com. She will also be featured in this fall’s upcoming movie release, Dolphin Tale 2. Her book Body and Soul is currently available at all major book retailers. q3 2014 hope 9

feature | Bethany Hamilton

Bethany Hamilton living a full life by to n ya d i xo n

Bethany Hamilton encourages women to make healthier choices, have passion for life and live a life in God. Oftentimes, a person’s most challenging obstacle in life can become her greatest source of determination and inspiration.

When surfer Bethany Hamilton lost her left arm in 2003 from a vicious, 14-foot tiger shark attack off Kauai’s North Shore in Hawaii, many people were convinced she would forever deny her love of the vast ocean and passion for surfing. Her actions and mentality proved them wrong—only one month after the incident, Hamilton was back doing what she loved. She couldn’t be denied and wouldn’t give up hope for her future as a professional surfer.

In 2007, her hope manifested when she was successfully able to transition from an amateur to a professional athlete. Hamilton has always been one to defy the odds—not only does her hope and determination stem from an unprecedented and exceptionally positive attitude (which her doctors attributed to her complication-free and speedy recovery), but she boldly relies on her faith in God as her ultimate source of strength and peace.

“Surfing was just something I had to get back out there and just do,” Hamilton said. “I could have been extremely fearful and just given it up [after the accident], but I guess just my passion and believing that God had directed my life in that way kept me going. It’s been amazing to see the different changes in my life since then. Just being able to be a light for Christ and share His truth with other people has been worth it all.”

The world has taken notice of her light, as her story has continued to spread. In 2011, her autobiography, Soul Surfer, was made into a major motion picture of the same name. With countless other books, products and events, Bethany uses her platform to showcase her innate talent and gift for surfing, as well as an avenue to encourage others to recognize their self-worths and embrace themselves through lives in Jesus Christ. It’s essentially the reason she wrote her latest book, Body and Soul: A Girls Guide to a Fit, Fun and Fabulous Life.

“I wrote the book to encourage females in their health and overall choices,” Hamilton said. “Body and Soul is not a diet book. Encouraging women in their faith through the book was really important to me. I wanted to let them know that their lives are full in Christ and to remind them that Jesus is the only one who can fulfill their lives through his gift of salvation and forgiveness, and it’s a wonderful and important thing to respect the bodies God has given them—whether it’s through health and fitness or even purity before marriage.”

Though Hamilton shares a bit of her own story of overcoming the odds, she really utilizes the book to encourage women—especially young girls—to do what they love without fear, maintain healthy lifestyles, and allow God to be the main thread woven throughout everything they do. Body and Soul also employs hands-on techniques that stimulate the physical, mental, and spiritual needs of virtually anyone. Readers are invited to write down their goals, feelings, fears, situations, dreams, and everything in between in the attempt to become better people. Hamilton’s book is a personified manual on how she 8 hope | q3 2014

Bethany Hamilton “When life throws crazy curve balls or different struggles—whether physical, spiritual, family, or friends—I just want to remind women that, no matter how they feel, Christ is still there, and His promises are still there for them.”

attempts to live her own life and includes: her own personal faith and fitness journey tidbits; instructions from professional and certified trainer, Dustin Dillbert; motivating and life-affirming scriptures and prayers; and hands-on healthy recipes, meal plans and easy, no-equipment-needed workouts.

Body image and self-awareness is an overriding theme throughout her book and was something Hamilton personally had to overcome; now she wants to encourage other women to do the same. She continues to remain passionate about living out her dreams and inspiring others, and, though she lost a part of her body, she gained a stronger understanding of the person she really is on the inside.

“God loves us just the way we are, no matter what we struggle with or are going through,” she said. “Through Him we can have a full and wonderful life, and though it’s not always going to be easy—you may have your own shark attacks or whatever your life attacks may be—God can overcome anything, and He’s there for us. When life throws crazy curve balls or different struggles—whether physical, spiritual, family, or friends—I just want to remind women that, no matter how they feel, Christ is still there, and His promises are still there for them.”

Hamilton’s line of products, including her new Cobian Sandals, can be found on her website at www.bethanyhamilton.com. She will also be featured in this fall’s upcoming movie release, Dolphin Tale 2. Her book Body and Soul is currently available at all major book retailers. q3 2014 hope 9

what matters most

Gladys

But, no matter what stage of life she has been in, Knight has always used music to share her talents with the world. She first started singing in her church choir on Sundays and since then, she’s been using her vocals to bring glory to God. “It’s another way to touch and be in touch with the spirit of the Lord,” Knight said.

“Every day we wake up and take a breath, there’s something more that we need to know about this life and this earth through His gospel. Some people just like the sermon, and some people like just reading the Bible. But for me, through the music, it becomes clear. It becomes so very clear, even though I do all of those other things, as well.”

through gospel music, gladys knight uses her gifts to bless others by n ata l i e m er r i l l

Though Knight has accomplished much throughout her musical career, she says she didn’t know she would be this successful.

After seeing a “jam-packed” venue when she performed at the Hollywood Bowl recently, she said she is taken by surprise by the blessings she has seen while sharing her gifts through gospel music.

“I’m still in awe of things like that happening in my life and around this gifted career that the Lord has blessed me with,” she said. “I just love people, and He has surrounded me with them—an awesome family, awesome fans, and friends.”

Gospel singing sensation Gladys Knight released her latest album, Where My Heart Belongs, in early September—and it’s one more way she is able to use her voice to spread God’s message to others.

Known as the Empress of Soul, Knight has been singing since the age of 4, but says it wasn’t until years later that she understood just how significant this talent of hers could actually be. “[My parents] told us from the beginning, ‘Whatever gifts you have, God gave to you, and you should use them accordingly,’” Knight said.

“And so I grew up with that kind of thing. But not until I was a teenager did I realize that this would probably be my lifelong thing to do.”

After Knight married her husband, using her gifts in music became an

10 hope.com | q3 2014

even more integral part of her life, especially after they started a family together at a young age. It was in her role as a wife and mother that she realized it was time to let her talents shine.

“My husband was a musician, and he was struggling, too—the exceptional musician that he was,” Knight said. “And I woke one day, and I said, ‘You know, you have a way to help your family, your husband, and you’re sitting at home, because you want to be a housekeeper and a mom and take care of the home.’ And that’s when it kind of dawned on me that I should appreciate and respect the gift in a different way than I had been up to that point.”

While Knight used some sounds to appeal to younger generations in her new album, she also stuck to traditional tunes and put things in “familiar territory” for her listeners.

“It’s so necessary for me to do the contemporary gospel things and take it back to the church so they can be exposed to it,” she said.

Knight will continue to use her talents to make sure everyone who hears her music knows what it’s really about.

“Everything I do is a gift from Him, but especially carrying the message where He wants it,” she said.

q3 2014 | hope.com 11

what matters most

Gladys

But, no matter what stage of life she has been in, Knight has always used music to share her talents with the world. She first started singing in her church choir on Sundays and since then, she’s been using her vocals to bring glory to God. “It’s another way to touch and be in touch with the spirit of the Lord,” Knight said.

“Every day we wake up and take a breath, there’s something more that we need to know about this life and this earth through His gospel. Some people just like the sermon, and some people like just reading the Bible. But for me, through the music, it becomes clear. It becomes so very clear, even though I do all of those other things, as well.”

through gospel music, gladys knight uses her gifts to bless others by n ata l i e m er r i l l

Though Knight has accomplished much throughout her musical career, she says she didn’t know she would be this successful.

After seeing a “jam-packed” venue when she performed at the Hollywood Bowl recently, she said she is taken by surprise by the blessings she has seen while sharing her gifts through gospel music.

“I’m still in awe of things like that happening in my life and around this gifted career that the Lord has blessed me with,” she said. “I just love people, and He has surrounded me with them—an awesome family, awesome fans, and friends.”

Gospel singing sensation Gladys Knight released her latest album, Where My Heart Belongs, in early September—and it’s one more way she is able to use her voice to spread God’s message to others.

Known as the Empress of Soul, Knight has been singing since the age of 4, but says it wasn’t until years later that she understood just how significant this talent of hers could actually be. “[My parents] told us from the beginning, ‘Whatever gifts you have, God gave to you, and you should use them accordingly,’” Knight said.

“And so I grew up with that kind of thing. But not until I was a teenager did I realize that this would probably be my lifelong thing to do.”

After Knight married her husband, using her gifts in music became an

10 hope.com | q3 2014

even more integral part of her life, especially after they started a family together at a young age. It was in her role as a wife and mother that she realized it was time to let her talents shine.

“My husband was a musician, and he was struggling, too—the exceptional musician that he was,” Knight said. “And I woke one day, and I said, ‘You know, you have a way to help your family, your husband, and you’re sitting at home, because you want to be a housekeeper and a mom and take care of the home.’ And that’s when it kind of dawned on me that I should appreciate and respect the gift in a different way than I had been up to that point.”

While Knight used some sounds to appeal to younger generations in her new album, she also stuck to traditional tunes and put things in “familiar territory” for her listeners.

“It’s so necessary for me to do the contemporary gospel things and take it back to the church so they can be exposed to it,” she said.

Knight will continue to use her talents to make sure everyone who hears her music knows what it’s really about.

“Everything I do is a gift from Him, but especially carrying the message where He wants it,” she said.

q3 2014 | hope.com 11

Out About

lifestyle | out n about

out n about | lifestyle In August, Creative Director Chandia Brennen attended the launch of Gabriel Cosmetics’ latest makeup collection, “Burlesque,” at the SLS Hotel Beverly Hills in Los Angeles, where makeup artist and founder/CEO of the company, Gabriel DeSantino, made a special guest appearance.

n’

CEO of Gabriel Cosmetics, Gabriel DeSantino

The Hope team was busy this summer having fun at fashion shows, beauty launches, and hanging out on the town with “Oprah’s the Life You Want Weekend.”

Back in July, writer Charne Graham was able to experience the NBCC Fashion House event, which was hosted by J. Alexander Martin, who is one of the founders of FUBU, and Claudia Jordan, who hosts “The Rickey Smiley Morning Show” and most recently joined “The Real Housewives of Atlanta.”

The event was at Chicago’s Y-Bar, and five different lines were displayed at the fashion show, where chic professionals and tastemakers from the city were in attendance.

Getting my makeup done by the founder and owner of @gabrielcosmetic #LOVEhim

With Gabriel, the owner of @gabrielcosmetic today in Beverly Hills for the launch of his new cosmetic line “Burlesque.” On behalf of @hopemag

Finally, capping off the eventful season, Hope’s Editor-at-Large, Cheryl Pullins, took part in “Oprah’s Life You Want Weekend” tour at the Newark, New Jersey Prudential Arena, where she was one among more than 15,000 other attendees.

Oprah Winfrey dazzled and inspired the crowd, introducing them to SoulCycle, an indoor cycling workout that engages and empowers riders in a way that leaves them mentally and physically stronger than when they arrived.

Our Editor-atLarge Cheryl Pullins having fun in O Town at #LifeYouWantNJ

12 hope.com | q3 2014

OPRAH! It’s a brand new day and Hope’s EAL having fun in OTown. #LifeYouWantNJ #Oprah #Day2

q3 2014 | hope.com 13

Out About

lifestyle | out n about

out n about | lifestyle In August, Creative Director Chandia Brennen attended the launch of Gabriel Cosmetics’ latest makeup collection, “Burlesque,” at the SLS Hotel Beverly Hills in Los Angeles, where makeup artist and founder/CEO of the company, Gabriel DeSantino, made a special guest appearance.

n’

CEO of Gabriel Cosmetics, Gabriel DeSantino

The Hope team was busy this summer having fun at fashion shows, beauty launches, and hanging out on the town with “Oprah’s the Life You Want Weekend.”

Back in July, writer Charne Graham was able to experience the NBCC Fashion House event, which was hosted by J. Alexander Martin, who is one of the founders of FUBU, and Claudia Jordan, who hosts “The Rickey Smiley Morning Show” and most recently joined “The Real Housewives of Atlanta.”

The event was at Chicago’s Y-Bar, and five different lines were displayed at the fashion show, where chic professionals and tastemakers from the city were in attendance.

Getting my makeup done by the founder and owner of @gabrielcosmetic #LOVEhim

With Gabriel, the owner of @gabrielcosmetic today in Beverly Hills for the launch of his new cosmetic line “Burlesque.” On behalf of @hopemag

Finally, capping off the eventful season, Hope’s Editor-at-Large, Cheryl Pullins, took part in “Oprah’s Life You Want Weekend” tour at the Newark, New Jersey Prudential Arena, where she was one among more than 15,000 other attendees.

Oprah Winfrey dazzled and inspired the crowd, introducing them to SoulCycle, an indoor cycling workout that engages and empowers riders in a way that leaves them mentally and physically stronger than when they arrived.

Our Editor-atLarge Cheryl Pullins having fun in O Town at #LifeYouWantNJ

12 hope.com | q3 2014

OPRAH! It’s a brand new day and Hope’s EAL having fun in OTown. #LifeYouWantNJ #Oprah #Day2

q3 2014 | hope.com 13

feature | Gessie Thompson

hope to

Conceive

Gessie Thompson didn’t always understand her struggle with fertility, but she always knew it was for a greater purpose. by to n ya d i xo n

oftentimes the dark, winding, unending, confusing, and painful paths in life are simply disguised preludes to glorious and magnificent productions that become treasures of life.

By many accounts, Gessie Thompson and her husband Marc were considered a power couple. They were both enjoying success in their prospective professional lives—Marc an up-and-coming executive, and Gessie a well-respected and highly sought-after brand strategist.

Content with their developing careers, they desired to expand their family—immediately. The decision was simple, but the process would prove to be absolutely, unimaginably difficult.

Something was wrong. While Thompson’s test results showed no signs of conception, she was nevertheless beginning to show signs of pregnancy. All tests indicated she was not pregnant, but her increasingly bulging belly said otherwise. Her situation was perplexing—known for always being fairly petite (she was only 97 pounds when she married in 1998), the drastic change in her body couldn’t be ignored. What was going on?

In 2001, Thompson discovered she had f ibroid tumors. “I had never heard of fibroids before,” she says. “I was alarmed. Didn’t tumors mean cancer?”

She soon learned that her fibroids were benign, as in the case of the majority of women who suffer with the issue. What really rocked the Thompson household was discovering that the fibroids would wage war and make it impossible for her naturally to conceive, carry, and deliver her own child.

14 hope | Q3 2014

Her situation was rather ironic, as her livelihood depended upon her ability to help others birth their visions, yet she was physically incapable of doing the same for herself. It was a conundrum she would wrestle with for the next 10 years and was the beginning of her decision to listen to the voice of hope and pursue her promise of childbirth through faith.

“I was dealing with an epidemic that I had never heard of, and I was asymptomatic other than my belly,” Thompson said. “Who wants to look pregnant but not be pregnant? I found a fertility specialist, but the focus had to be to preserve my uterus so that we could have children.”

A myomectomy (fibroid removal surgery) was scheduled—she would ultimately endure three myomectomies and other complicationsrelated surgeries. In 2008, Thompson successfully conceived through in vitro fertilization. What she hoped for was finally coming to pass, and the joy in her heart was unspea kable. But it was short-lived: weeks later, she miscarried.

A lthough devastated, she k new that pregnanc y was possible. Growing weary of everything from the surgeries to raging hormones to the injections, Thompson sought God for direction. Her window of opportunity seemed to be steadily closing, but she couldn’t give up hope. Following a last ditch round of in vitro, she

feature | Gessie Thompson

hope to

Conceive

Gessie Thompson didn’t always understand her struggle with fertility, but she always knew it was for a greater purpose. by j oa n n a l eflo r e

oftentimes the dark, winding, unending, confusing, and painful paths in life are simply disguised preludes to glorious and magnificent productions that become treasures of life.

By many accounts, Gessie Thompson and her husband Marc were considered a power couple. They were both enjoying success in their prospective professional lives—Marc an up-and-coming executive, and Gessie a well-respected and highly sought-after brand strategist.

Content with their developing careers, they desired to expand their family—immediately. The decision was simple, but the process would prove to be absolutely, unimaginably difficult.

Something was wrong. While Thompson’s test results showed no signs of conception, she was nevertheless beginning to show signs of pregnancy. All tests indicated she was not pregnant, but her increasingly bulging belly said otherwise. Her situation was perplexing—known for always being fairly petite (she was only 97 pounds when she married in 1998), the drastic change in her body couldn’t be ignored. What was going on?

In 2001, Thompson discovered she had f ibroid tumors. “I had never heard of fibroids before,” she says. “I was alarmed. Didn’t tumors mean cancer?”

She soon learned that her fibroids were benign, as in the case of the majority of women who suffer with the issue. What really rocked the Thompson household was discovering that the fibroids would wage war and make it impossible for her naturally to conceive, carry, and deliver her own child.

14 hope | Q3 2014

Her situation was rather ironic, as her livelihood depended upon her ability to help others birth their visions, yet she was physically incapable of doing the same for herself. It was a conundrum she would wrestle with for the next 10 years and was the beginning of her decision to listen to the voice of hope and pursue her promise of childbirth through faith.

“I was dealing with an epidemic that I had never heard of, and I was asymptomatic other than my belly,” Thompson said. “Who wants to look pregnant but not be pregnant? I found a fertility specialist, but the focus had to be to preserve my uterus so that we could have children.”

A myomectomy (fibroid removal surgery) was scheduled—she would ultimately endure three myomectomies and other complicationsrelated surgeries. In 2008, Thompson successfully conceived through in vitro fertilization. What she hoped for was finally coming to pass, and the joy in her heart was unspea kable. But it was short-lived: weeks later, she miscarried.

A lthough devastated, she k new that pregnanc y was possible. Growing weary of everything from the surgeries to raging hormones to the injections, Thompson sought God for direction. Her window of opportunity seemed to be steadily closing, but she couldn’t give up hope. Following a last ditch round of in vitro, she

became pregnant, but at 21 weeks fibroids were yet again threatening her baby’s survival. The doctors were not hopeful and recommended termination. It was a gut punch, but as a person of faith it simply wasn’t an option. Through daily tests, many delivery scares and around-the-clock prayer, at 32 weeks Thompson delivered a tiny, but feisty 2.5-pound baby girl with everything intact. A healthy baby and a healthy mommy. Her treasure was worth her trouble.

In fact, it was her trouble that cleared her vision. Thompson started The Circle of Prayer Group, which is her answer to the things she felt she lacked and would have benefitted from while going through her fertility journey. It’s a group of women who meet and share their testimonies of struggles in the areas of fertility, f ibroids, emotions, marriage, and faith.

“I had people praying for me, but I didn’t have testimonies of people going through the same thing I was going through,” Thompson says. “I didn’t have women to walk with who had been in my shoes. At the end of the day, my greatest obstacle wasn’t the fibroids; it wasn’t the surgeries or the infertility issues, but it was discouragement. If I could stay encouraged I could fight another day.”

Through prayer, God ’s Word, and other resources, Thompson aims to encourage and strengthen other women and families who are facing the same “broken hope” she once did.

“There’s something about not being able to have a child as a woman that does something to you, and you struggle, because it’s supposed to be a natural thing, so you feel less than a woman,” she says. “You struggle with jealousy even though you want to rejoice for others. But how can you do that if you don’t have people around you to elevate your thinking and stir up your hope? That’s why I started The Circle of Prayer.”

Thompson advises others never to quit, regardless of how discouraging things may appear. “You may know how far you’ve come, but you don’t know how close you are,” she says.

Thompson’s new book Hope Beyond Fibroids: Stories of Miracle Babies and the Journey to Motherhood chronicles her story and the testimonies of many others to provide hope and encouragement for women desiring to become mothers. A portion of the proceeds will benefit The White Dress Project, a non-profit organization dedicated to raising funds for research and awareness of uterine fibroids. q3 2014 | hope 15

beauty | Kim Roxie

Love & Makeup in Kindness interview with

Kim Roxie by ta s h a é h ed g e s pe t h

Welcoming the world to healthy and more socially conscious alternatives of makeup Just because you’re wearing makeup doesn’t mean you have to feel made up—rather, you can use products that reveal your authentic beauty.

While attending Clark Atlanta University, Kim Roxie, the creator behind LAMIK Beauty, didn’t have an internship or any prospects after college, so she started working behind a makeup counter. In the wake of rifling through ideas and looking for a part-time job, Kim came across the beloved world of makeup.

HOPE: What was the idea behind starting LAMIK? KR: During my senior year in college, a vision came to me for LAMIK. I’d been doing makeup, and I connected so well with women. But, because I wasn’t good with makeup, the idea was to come up with a line for women who weren’t “makeup people.” [All of the women] I encountered didn’t identify themselves with makeup, very rarely wore makeup, or didn’t consider themselves makeup girls. That’s who I am.

HOPE: Is there a specific type of woman that LAMIK is catered toward?

KR: Definitely for women who are looking for a greener choice, because statistics show that 33 percent of women are looking for ways to go green in their everyday lifestyle. Also, our makeup line speaks to many shades of a woman. I’m a dark-skinned black woman, and when Indian, Hispanic, or Black women see me, they react like, “Oh you gotta have a skin-tone shade for me if you can wear it.” We cater to all women and definitely have a shade for every woman. They have an allegiance to our brand, because we have their specific skin tone.

HOPE: What caused you to launch a green line of products?

KR: I think it’s just about being conscious. It goes back to being able to relate to women and being honest. I think that, for LAMIK, when we find out about something, we try to do something about it, and that’s how we landed on CNN as one of the safest cosmetic companies.

Every day, we look at what’s a success and give out what’s better for the consumer. We try to give them something better and formulate safer products. We are paraben-free, fragrance-free, and talc-free. All of our products are hypoallergenic and include ingredients such as green tea, vitamins C and E, minerals, avocado oil, and others.

16 hope.com | q3 2014

HOPE: What sets L A MIK apart from other well-known beauty brands?

KR: Being relevant to the consumer is very important, because you want to be ahead of the consumer. You don’t want them to find out about something new from another source. For some women, they still don’t know, so it’s a lot of education and equivalent to healthy eating in a way. That’s why, at LAMIK, we stay on top of trends, and you don’t sacrifice anything like color, high pigment, or quality. When women use our products, they’re able to look good and feel good about it at the same time. Understand our philosophy that beauty is revealed, not applied. We don’t do makeovers—we do beauty revelations.

HOPE: Do you look to expand your products and add to the LAMIK collection?

KR: This summer, we recently launched our sports collection and partnered with the WNBA team the Atlanta Dream. The LAMIK sport kit is for the active woman and geared toward women who like to work out and still look good. Also, this fall we’ll be introducing two new lipstick colors, as well as a new blush. We’ll be reintroducing our facial care line, as well as bringing out some new accessories.

More information about L A MIK beauty can be found on its website: www.lamik-beauty.com. You can follow LAMIK on Twitter and Facebook and subscribe to the YouTube channel, as well, LAMIKBeautyTV.

winter 2014 | hope 17

beauty | Kim Roxie

Love & Makeup in Kindness interview with

Kim Roxie by ta s h a é h ed g e s pe t h

Welcoming the world to healthy and more socially conscious alternatives of makeup Just because you’re wearing makeup doesn’t mean you have to feel made up—rather, you can use products that reveal your authentic beauty.

While attending Clark Atlanta University, Kim Roxie, the creator behind LAMIK Beauty, didn’t have an internship or any prospects after college, so she started working behind a makeup counter. In the wake of rifling through ideas and looking for a part-time job, Kim came across the beloved world of makeup.

HOPE: What was the idea behind starting LAMIK? KR: During my senior year in college, a vision came to me for LAMIK. I’d been doing makeup, and I connected so well with women. But, because I wasn’t good with makeup, the idea was to come up with a line for women who weren’t “makeup people.” [All of the women] I encountered didn’t identify themselves with makeup, very rarely wore makeup, or didn’t consider themselves makeup girls. That’s who I am.

HOPE: Is there a specific type of woman that LAMIK is catered toward?

KR: Definitely for women who are looking for a greener choice, because statistics show that 33 percent of women are looking for ways to go green in their everyday lifestyle. Also, our makeup line speaks to many shades of a woman. I’m a dark-skinned black woman, and when Indian, Hispanic, or Black women see me, they react like, “Oh you gotta have a skin-tone shade for me if you can wear it.” We cater to all women and definitely have a shade for every woman. They have an allegiance to our brand, because we have their specific skin tone.

HOPE: What caused you to launch a green line of products?

KR: I think it’s just about being conscious. It goes back to being able to relate to women and being honest. I think that, for LAMIK, when we find out about something, we try to do something about it, and that’s how we landed on CNN as one of the safest cosmetic companies.

Every day, we look at what’s a success and give out what’s better for the consumer. We try to give them something better and formulate safer products. We are paraben-free, fragrance-free, and talc-free. All of our products are hypoallergenic and include ingredients such as green tea, vitamins C and E, minerals, avocado oil, and others.

16 hope.com | q3 2014

HOPE: What sets L A MIK apart from other well-known beauty brands?

KR: Being relevant to the consumer is very important, because you want to be ahead of the consumer. You don’t want them to find out about something new from another source. For some women, they still don’t know, so it’s a lot of education and equivalent to healthy eating in a way. That’s why, at LAMIK, we stay on top of trends, and you don’t sacrifice anything like color, high pigment, or quality. When women use our products, they’re able to look good and feel good about it at the same time. Understand our philosophy that beauty is revealed, not applied. We don’t do makeovers—we do beauty revelations.

HOPE: Do you look to expand your products and add to the LAMIK collection?

KR: This summer, we recently launched our sports collection and partnered with the WNBA team the Atlanta Dream. The LAMIK sport kit is for the active woman and geared toward women who like to work out and still look good. Also, this fall we’ll be introducing two new lipstick colors, as well as a new blush. We’ll be reintroducing our facial care line, as well as bringing out some new accessories.

More information about L A MIK beauty can be found on its website: www.lamik-beauty.com. You can follow LAMIK on Twitter and Facebook and subscribe to the YouTube channel, as well, LAMIKBeautyTV.

winter 2014 | hope 17

11 beauty | fall

Best Drugstore Buys by b r a n d i e g i l l i a m

for less than $11!

Get gorgeous for less this fall and winter with these budget-friendly beauty buys.

Effective and healthy, every one of these delightfully pretty finds rings up for less than $11! Shopping the drugstore beauty aisles has never been more exciting or enticing—and yet felt so responsibly good.

Nubian Heritage Goat’s Milk & Chai Body Lotion A silky, fast-absorbing skin softener and moisturizer made with nourishing Shea Butter, conditioning goat’s milk, and antioxidant chai. The sweet scent of milk and chai warms your senses.

Pacifica Eye Lining Pencil Glides on smoothly and stays put for perfectly lined lids and gorgeous smoky eyes all season. Made with jojoba oil and shea butter along with Vitamin C and E.

Vitamin Shoppe $10.99

Target $10.99

eos Limited Edition Breast Cancer Awareness Collection This special collection includes a limited edition Strawberry Sorbet Smooth Stick Lip Balm, Pomegranate Raspberry Smooth Sphere Lip Balm, and Berry Blossom Hand Lotion. Plus, a portion of the proceeds will benefit breast cancer research.

Walgreens $7.99

Dr. Bronner Rose Bar Soap Cleans skin gently and effectively without dryness or irritation. The creamy lather and“best rose scent ever” will leave you coming back for more.

Certified organic and fair trade. Wrapped in 10 percent hemp-flax/90 percent post-consumer recycled (PCR) paper.

GNC $2.99

EcoTools Naturally Lush Lash System Get naturally lush and beautiful lashes in seconds. Made from the same soft, cruelty-free synthetic materials as the brand’s makeup brushes. Glue is free of harmful chemicals like formaldehyde, parabens, phthalates, and latex.

Shea Moisture Jamaican Black Castor Oil Shampoo Clarifies all hair types while removing product build-up.

Sulfate-free and gentle enough to use daily. Leaves hair soft, shiny, and nourished, and the scalp balanced with apple cider vinegar.

Ulta $5.99

Burt’s Bees Lip Crayon Creamy matte color and moisture-rich wear. The lightweight formula is infused with shea butter, Kendi oil, and jojoba oil for hydrated kissably soft and smooth lips.

CVS $5.99

Target $8.99

Yes To Carrots Nourishing Daily Cream Facial Cleanser Perfect for the colder months of fall and winter or whenever skin needs a moisture boost, this rich creamy cleanser will get the job done. It’s 96 percent natural and made with organic carrots, aloe vera, and shea butter. It even comes in a fragrance-free edition for those with extra sensitive skin.

Walmart $7.97

Organic Wear CC Curl + Care Mascara Curls, lengthens, and adds volume. The trick to this mascara is to use the inside of the brush to curl first and then layer with the outside of the brush for big, beautiful lashes.

Seventh Generation Clean Hand Soap Part of Target’s new Made To Matter Collection. Wash away bacteria naturally with the fresh scent of lemon and tea tree. Comes in an easy-to-use pump bottle.

Target $2.99

Vineyard Hill Naturals Milk & Honey Hand Cream Keep hands soft and moisturized when skin needs it most during the cold weather. The nourishing and calming benefits of milk provide hydration, while honey acts as a natural mild antiseptic. drugstore.com $6.99

Walmart $8.74

18 @hopemag | q3 2014

q3 2014 | @hopemag 19

11 beauty | fall

Best Drugstore Buys by b r a n d i e g i l l i a m

for less than $11!

Get gorgeous for less this fall and winter with these budget-friendly beauty buys.

Effective and healthy, every one of these delightfully pretty finds rings up for less than $11! Shopping the drugstore beauty aisles has never been more exciting or enticing—and yet felt so responsibly good.

Nubian Heritage Goat’s Milk & Chai Body Lotion A silky, fast-absorbing skin softener and moisturizer made with nourishing Shea Butter, conditioning goat’s milk, and antioxidant chai. The sweet scent of milk and chai warms your senses.

Pacifica Eye Lining Pencil Glides on smoothly and stays put for perfectly lined lids and gorgeous smoky eyes all season. Made with jojoba oil and shea butter along with Vitamin C and E.

Vitamin Shoppe $10.99

Target $10.99

eos Limited Edition Breast Cancer Awareness Collection This special collection includes a limited edition Strawberry Sorbet Smooth Stick Lip Balm, Pomegranate Raspberry Smooth Sphere Lip Balm, and Berry Blossom Hand Lotion. Plus, a portion of the proceeds will benefit breast cancer research.

Walgreens $7.99

Dr. Bronner Rose Bar Soap Cleans skin gently and effectively without dryness or irritation. The creamy lather and“best rose scent ever” will leave you coming back for more.

Certified organic and fair trade. Wrapped in 10 percent hemp-flax/90 percent post-consumer recycled (PCR) paper.

GNC $2.99

EcoTools Naturally Lush Lash System Get naturally lush and beautiful lashes in seconds. Made from the same soft, cruelty-free synthetic materials as the brand’s makeup brushes. Glue is free of harmful chemicals like formaldehyde, parabens, phthalates, and latex.

Shea Moisture Jamaican Black Castor Oil Shampoo Clarifies all hair types while removing product build-up.

Sulfate-free and gentle enough to use daily. Leaves hair soft, shiny, and nourished, and the scalp balanced with apple cider vinegar.

Ulta $5.99

Burt’s Bees Lip Crayon Creamy matte color and moisture-rich wear. The lightweight formula is infused with shea butter, Kendi oil, and jojoba oil for hydrated kissably soft and smooth lips.

CVS $5.99

Target $8.99

Yes To Carrots Nourishing Daily Cream Facial Cleanser Perfect for the colder months of fall and winter or whenever skin needs a moisture boost, this rich creamy cleanser will get the job done. It’s 96 percent natural and made with organic carrots, aloe vera, and shea butter. It even comes in a fragrance-free edition for those with extra sensitive skin.

Walmart $7.97

Organic Wear CC Curl + Care Mascara Curls, lengthens, and adds volume. The trick to this mascara is to use the inside of the brush to curl first and then layer with the outside of the brush for big, beautiful lashes.

Seventh Generation Clean Hand Soap Part of Target’s new Made To Matter Collection. Wash away bacteria naturally with the fresh scent of lemon and tea tree. Comes in an easy-to-use pump bottle.

Target $2.99

Vineyard Hill Naturals Milk & Honey Hand Cream Keep hands soft and moisturized when skin needs it most during the cold weather. The nourishing and calming benefits of milk provide hydration, while honey acts as a natural mild antiseptic. drugstore.com $6.99

Walmart $8.74

18 @hopemag | q3 2014

q3 2014 | @hopemag 19

fashion | FALL

kerry washington

“Scandal” fans can now get the look of the TV show’s beloved Olivia Pope

Her Style It’s Handled by v i v i a n s wi n s o n

Turn up your style this fall season while turning heads with looks inspired by Olivia Pope. The possibilities are definitely endless!

On April 5, 2012, America sat glued to the television watching “Scandal,” one of the most highly anticipated TV drama series to hit ABC. America would soon become addicted not only to the plot twists and turns of the show and its characters, but faithful fans would become particularly fascinated with the main character, Olivia Pope, played

by Kerry Washington. As women grew to love her, they also became obsessed with her style, thanks to “Scandal” stylist and costume designer Lyn Paolo. Ladies’ obsession for her style created such a buzz that Washington and Paolo have teamed up with The Limited to recreate the fashion you have come to love—plus you can anticipate a new fall look for the upcoming season.

What seems to be most intriguing is the style contrast between Pope and Washington.

From a corporate conservative flair to a diva’s red carpet or super cute casual hauteness, both ladies will serve your appetite for the perfect fall outfits and accessories. Get the look, and make it scandalicious! You’ve got this! It’s handled!

20 @hopemag | q3 2014

q3 2014 | @hopemag 21

fashion | FALL

kerry washington

“Scandal” fans can now get the look of the TV show’s beloved Olivia Pope

Her Style It’s Handled by v i v i a n s wi n s o n

Turn up your style this fall season while turning heads with looks inspired by Olivia Pope. The possibilities are definitely endless!

On April 5, 2012, America sat glued to the television watching “Scandal,” one of the most highly anticipated TV drama series to hit ABC. America would soon become addicted not only to the plot twists and turns of the show and its characters, but faithful fans would become particularly fascinated with the main character, Olivia Pope, played

by Kerry Washington. As women grew to love her, they also became obsessed with her style, thanks to “Scandal” stylist and costume designer Lyn Paolo. Ladies’ obsession for her style created such a buzz that Washington and Paolo have teamed up with The Limited to recreate the fashion you have come to love—plus you can anticipate a new fall look for the upcoming season.

What seems to be most intriguing is the style contrast between Pope and Washington.

From a corporate conservative flair to a diva’s red carpet or super cute casual hauteness, both ladies will serve your appetite for the perfect fall outfits and accessories. Get the look, and make it scandalicious! You’ve got this! It’s handled!

20 @hopemag | q3 2014

q3 2014 | @hopemag 21

Jennifer Lopez

fashion | FALL

Jenny from the

block by c a r r a lyce b u fo r d

Jennifer Lopez has a timeless sense of fashion that continues to turn heads Trends may come and go, but certain women know how to leave their marks in the fashion world.

Jennifer Lopez has been a style icon for years, and she continues to do so even now with style, grace, and a wow factor. At age 45, she still looks great and is still taking risks when it comes to fashion.

While her Versace dress at the Grammys got the attention of many, her style didn’t just have 15 minutes of fame. We have been able to watch her evolve into a superstar, whether it’s on the big screen, at a concert, or on the red carpet. She has definitely put herself into fashion icon status. Designers such as Zuhair Murad and Valentino have created amazing gowns for that perfect red carpet wow moment that both compliment her amazing body and keep her on the cutting edge of fashion.

Whether it’s everyday casual wear, performance attire, or a sleeker chic look, she does it right and with style and grace.

Photo-shoot to promote her TV series The Fosters.

Valentino at the 2003 Oscar Awards Red Carpet.

This summer, Lopez went back to the fashion powerhouse that made her a red carpet fashion icon at the Haute Couture Fall/Winter 2014-2015 Atelier Versace fashion show at Paris Fashion Week. J. Lo arrived wearing none other than Versace, of course! Adorned with Atelier Versace jewelry, a Versace gown and Versace sandals, she looked just as fabulous in 2014 as she did in 2000.

Times change, people change, and even fashion changes--but Jennifer Lopez’s sense of style has remained the same—daring, feminine, edgy and classic. She’s still Jenny from the block when it comes to the fashion she rocks!

Keep it fabulous, ladies.

22 @hopemag | q3 2014

q3 2014 | @hopemag 23

Jennifer Lopez

fashion | FALL

Jenny from the

block by c a r r a lyce b u fo r d

Jennifer Lopez has a timeless sense of fashion that continues to turn heads Trends may come and go, but certain women know how to leave their marks in the fashion world.

Jennifer Lopez has been a style icon for years, and she continues to do so even now with style, grace, and a wow factor. At age 45, she still looks great and is still taking risks when it comes to fashion.

While her Versace dress at the Grammys got the attention of many, her style didn’t just have 15 minutes of fame. We have been able to watch her evolve into a superstar, whether it’s on the big screen, at a concert, or on the red carpet. She has definitely put herself into fashion icon status. Designers such as Zuhair Murad and Valentino have created amazing gowns for that perfect red carpet wow moment that both compliment her amazing body and keep her on the cutting edge of fashion.

Whether it’s everyday casual wear, performance attire, or a sleeker chic look, she does it right and with style and grace.

Photo-shoot to promote her TV series The Fosters.

Valentino at the 2003 Oscar Awards Red Carpet.

This summer, Lopez went back to the fashion powerhouse that made her a red carpet fashion icon at the Haute Couture Fall/Winter 2014-2015 Atelier Versace fashion show at Paris Fashion Week. J. Lo arrived wearing none other than Versace, of course! Adorned with Atelier Versace jewelry, a Versace gown and Versace sandals, she looked just as fabulous in 2014 as she did in 2000.

Times change, people change, and even fashion changes--but Jennifer Lopez’s sense of style has remained the same—daring, feminine, edgy and classic. She’s still Jenny from the block when it comes to the fashion she rocks!

Keep it fabulous, ladies.

22 @hopemag | q3 2014

q3 2014 | @hopemag 23

what matters most

Every Frugalista’s

MUST-HAVE Fashion for Fall by k e ’au n d r a m ci n t y r e

Each new season brings with it fresh opportunities for you to be a style queen.

Summer is indeed closing in on us like the apocalypse, and it seems like yesterday that we pulled out our maxis, denim shorts, sandals, and swimsuits. In true fashionista form, I know you’re already wondering, “What am I going to wear for this season shift???” The trends for this fall are ALL OVER the place, ranging from Vibrant Colors, Gold Overload, The Edgy Cowboy, Supersized Everything, Wrap Robes, 50 Shades of Gray, and so much more. It sounds like too much variety to handle, but you can put your asthma pumps away, because I’ve compiled a list of the hottest must haves for fall that will save you time, money, and a trip to the fashion emergency room!

The Vintage Life: It’s about all things ‘60s dripped in gold—not just anything from the ‘60s but mini dresses and miniskirts paired with tights or a cute, light jacket.

Frugalista Picks: Michael Kors, Local Consignment Store, Local Thrift Shop

hope.com | q3 2014

Geometrical & Abstract Prints: Loud, bold, and colorful prints will be making a statement in wardrobes everywhere. These prints will maximize those essential pieces that you already have. Think mix and match, living out loud, and standing out.

Frugalista Pick: ASOS.com, Designer Outlets, Arden B, Marciano

Puss in Boots: These are not just your ordinary boots! Tall, knee-high, fur-trimmed, colorful, laced-up, suede, thigh-high, color-blocked—I could go on, but you get the point. Steer clear of the typical black boots, especially riding boots if you want to be the trending topic this season.

Frugalista Pick: DSW, Off Broadway Shoes, Aldo Shoes, Nine West

I m ag e B r a n d i n g E x p e r t o f T h e I m ag e A d d i c t

Fall Season Game Changers

Comfy Sweaters: These Don’t don just any sweater but the oversized sweater that you’d normally run from. This season, these cozy tops are a big hit to accentuate pencil skirts, palazzo pants, and gauchos.

Frugalista Pick: H&M, TJ Maxx, Forever 21

Royalty Robe: Robe coats were one of the biggest hits for fall. Add a robe coat to any style for a lounge look, luxurious flair, layered fabness, or just simply to stay warm.

Frugalista Pick: Burlington Coat Factory….Period!

q3 2014 | hope.com 49

finance | ideas

4

Finance Files:

Work & Career:

Things to Make This

the Best Fall Season of Your Career by n i ch el l e r d own i n g

Why Debit Is Always Better Than Credit by r ach el cr u ze

if you spread a myth around long enough, people will slowly begin accepting it as truth.

Credit cards didn’t exist until the 1950s, and they weren’t widely embraced until the 1970s and 80s. But credit cards and debt are so normal today that it’s hard to imagine a society in which they don’t exist. They have become such a part of our culture that many people just assume that plopping down the credit card to pay for dinner is part of life.

But that’s just not true!

Debit cards offer you all the same benefits of credit cards, and here’s the best part: Debit cards use your money, not the bank’s money!

Now I know what you’re worried about. You’re thinking, What about the safety issues with debit cards?

fall will be here before you know it. the air turns a bit crisp. the trees boast hues of brown, honey and gold tones. comfy sweaters and brushed suede shoes become the norm. these are all the images that come to mind when you think of fall. fall is a time of turning over. We turn from light clothes to heavier clothing, vacations and outdoor adventures to nesting at home and evenings by the fireplace. everything in our everyday lives is a part of the turning process. in the office, new teams are formed, new schedules are made, and client assignments and projects are dispersed. this is a time for regrouping and reassessing as you prepare to plunge back into the corporate world.

But a debit card from a well-known company like Visa or MasterCard will have the same policy about unauthorized charges as credit cards.

Check out the Big Picture – It’s easy to get so caught up in what your department is doing that you lose sight of what the “other half ” is working on. Find out what other departments of the company are working on. Search through the company SharePoint site and read through reports.

Play a PowerPoint presentation. Watch a webinar. Seeing the whole picture of the company helps your focus become clearer when working on projects.

Less stress.

1

2

Feed Your Mind – Every industry has a flood of newsletters, webinars, articles, white papers, and best practice documents that are sent via email or snail mail to you daily or monthly. Enrich your skill set. Dive in! This is the time to etch out at least an hour of your workday to learn something. Your company may also have an internal on-line learning website. Use this time to nourish your mind.

26 hope | Q2 2014

3 4

Review and Revamp - Sometimes the fiscal year of the company is so busy and full that you don’t have time to sit back and look at what you’ve done. Now is a perfect time to slowly review what you’ve completed. Step into fall with a new way of working. Strive to succeed beyond last year’s accomplishments.

Connect in New Ways – With the workload ramping up, the critical element of time is still open.

Connect with co-workers outside of the normal lunch meeting. Meet for a walk during lunch to talk about anything other than work. Instead of coffee, suggest an end-of- theseason ice cream run. Connecting in new ways creates a new bond for team work.

Give yourself time this fall to slow down and launch your career to new heights. This is shaping up to be your best fall season ever!

ideas | finance

So what are some of the benefits of the debit card?

No fees attached. Credit cards bring interest rates, late fees, over-the-limit fees and annual fees—all for the “privilege” of putting something on credit.

With debit cards, all you need to do is keep track of your account balance, and you won’t need to worry about any of that.

When it’s gone, it’s gone! With a credit card, you can spend and spend and spend to your heart’s content—and that might be fun for about a day. But then the bills start rolling in, and the interest charges start piling up. That’s when you get a major buyer’s-remorse hangover. The debit card works just like cash, so if you don’t have it, you can’t use it.

Spending money you don’t have is one outstanding way to add a crazy amount of stress to your life. And with one quick swipe, a credit card will allow you to do just that. Avoid all that stress by keeping your life simple and using the debit card.

One point to remember as well: A debit card works just like cash, but nothing replaces cash when you’re trying to get out of debt.

That’s because you spend less when you use cash. Swiping a card doesn’t have the same “feeling” as plopping down cold, hard cash. It doesn’t hurt as much.

And that goes for a credit card and a debit card.

So if you want to really cut back on your spending, consider going with cash only. You will be amazed at how much you’ll save every month.

But whether you choose cash or debit, you’ll still do a lot better than living off credit cards. Build wealth, not debt.

Q2 2014 | hope 27

finance | ideas

4

Finance Files:

Work & Career:

Things to Make This

the Best Fall Season of Your Career by n i ch el l e r d own i n g

Why Debit Is Always Better Than Credit by r ach el cr u ze

if you spread a myth around long enough, people will slowly begin accepting it as truth.

Credit cards didn’t exist until the 1950s, and they weren’t widely embraced until the 1970s and 80s. But credit cards and debt are so normal today that it’s hard to imagine a society in which they don’t exist. They have become such a part of our culture that many people just assume that plopping down the credit card to pay for dinner is part of life.

But that’s just not true!

Debit cards offer you all the same benefits of credit cards, and here’s the best part: Debit cards use your money, not the bank’s money!

Now I know what you’re worried about. You’re thinking, What about the safety issues with debit cards?

fall will be here before you know it. the air turns a bit crisp. the trees boast hues of brown, honey and gold tones. comfy sweaters and brushed suede shoes become the norm. these are all the images that come to mind when you think of fall. fall is a time of turning over. We turn from light clothes to heavier clothing, vacations and outdoor adventures to nesting at home and evenings by the fireplace. everything in our everyday lives is a part of the turning process. in the office, new teams are formed, new schedules are made, and client assignments and projects are dispersed. this is a time for regrouping and reassessing as you prepare to plunge back into the corporate world.

But a debit card from a well-known company like Visa or MasterCard will have the same policy about unauthorized charges as credit cards.

Check out the Big Picture – It’s easy to get so caught up in what your department is doing that you lose sight of what the “other half ” is working on. Find out what other departments of the company are working on. Search through the company SharePoint site and read through reports.

Play a PowerPoint presentation. Watch a webinar. Seeing the whole picture of the company helps your focus become clearer when working on projects.

Less stress.

1

2

Feed Your Mind – Every industry has a flood of newsletters, webinars, articles, white papers, and best practice documents that are sent via email or snail mail to you daily or monthly. Enrich your skill set. Dive in! This is the time to etch out at least an hour of your workday to learn something. Your company may also have an internal on-line learning website. Use this time to nourish your mind.

26 hope | Q2 2014

3 4

Review and Revamp - Sometimes the fiscal year of the company is so busy and full that you don’t have time to sit back and look at what you’ve done. Now is a perfect time to slowly review what you’ve completed. Step into fall with a new way of working. Strive to succeed beyond last year’s accomplishments.

Connect in New Ways – With the workload ramping up, the critical element of time is still open.

Connect with co-workers outside of the normal lunch meeting. Meet for a walk during lunch to talk about anything other than work. Instead of coffee, suggest an end-of- theseason ice cream run. Connecting in new ways creates a new bond for team work.

Give yourself time this fall to slow down and launch your career to new heights. This is shaping up to be your best fall season ever!

ideas | finance

So what are some of the benefits of the debit card?

No fees attached. Credit cards bring interest rates, late fees, over-the-limit fees and annual fees—all for the “privilege” of putting something on credit.

With debit cards, all you need to do is keep track of your account balance, and you won’t need to worry about any of that.

When it’s gone, it’s gone! With a credit card, you can spend and spend and spend to your heart’s content—and that might be fun for about a day. But then the bills start rolling in, and the interest charges start piling up. That’s when you get a major buyer’s-remorse hangover. The debit card works just like cash, so if you don’t have it, you can’t use it.

Spending money you don’t have is one outstanding way to add a crazy amount of stress to your life. And with one quick swipe, a credit card will allow you to do just that. Avoid all that stress by keeping your life simple and using the debit card.

One point to remember as well: A debit card works just like cash, but nothing replaces cash when you’re trying to get out of debt.

That’s because you spend less when you use cash. Swiping a card doesn’t have the same “feeling” as plopping down cold, hard cash. It doesn’t hurt as much.

And that goes for a credit card and a debit card.

So if you want to really cut back on your spending, consider going with cash only. You will be amazed at how much you’ll save every month.

But whether you choose cash or debit, you’ll still do a lot better than living off credit cards. Build wealth, not debt.

Q2 2014 | hope 27

feature | Women Who Inspire 2014

Angelia White

A courageous fortress of women in

A woman with a dream to create HOPE from the ground up Founder and CEO of Hope for Women Magazine Angelia White started with a dream to build a publication filled with the inspiring stories of Women and their path toward success. As a Ball State University alumna, White has been making strides of her own reaching more than 100,000 subscribers through HOPE’s digital magazine with a fast-growing readership and celebrity access. Through her work, White has managed to connect thousands of women by showcasing the faith-filled missions and lifestyles of ambitious women across the nation.

leadership by j oa n n a l eflo r e

As women who inspire, HOPE wanted to recognize the women with courageous voices. These women exemplify what it takes to speak up and live out their personal dreams. This year we congratulate those women of exceptional faith and empowerment.

Inspiring small business toward success through leadership transformation Inspiring women to transform their lives through leadership coaching, Becky Davis has record experience in corporate and entrepreneurship to pave the course. With over 20 years of leadership experience, Davis shelters her expertise under MVPwork LLC, a consulting and executive coaching firm based in Atlanta, Georgia. She speaks often of her mission to help small businesses grow through leadership training and genuine relationship building. She understands the importance of empowering small business leaders to ensure profit is accomplished with purpose. More importantly, she advocates for the empowerment of women entrepreneurs through a women business breakthrough boot camp.

Accomplished author and motivational speaker, aspiring business owners can keep up with Davis at www.mvpwork.com.

LaKeisha Rainey-Collins Mentoring women to embrace excellence LaKeisha Rainey-Collins, author, ministry leader and founder of Beauty For Ashes, Inc. has been answering the call to mentor women of God since 2012. When she is not leading women into excellence Lakeisha operates LRC Editing, a Christian business writing firm helping small businesses reach writing goals. Her passion for writing has helped her author her first title, “Beautiful Me: 21 Days to Embracing Your Beauty Within” (NyreePress, 2013) in addition to a self-published blog “Sentiments of My Heart.” She has a personal testimony of molestation and depression overcoming her fears through a spiritual relationship with Christ. LaKeisha currently lives Mobile, Alabama with her husband and three sons.

Monica Ware Encouraging young girls to seek fulfillment through faith Monica Ware is secure as a youth mentor and magazine publisher of Be You! Girl magazine. She has worked with youth for more than 20 years seeking to empower them and young girls in particular. Ware’s love of writing began with inspirational poems and newsletters and later led to founding the magazine featured online at beyougirl.com. Ware is not just talking the talk, but walking it having served as a Big Brothers Big Sisters mentor for two decades. Her passion for the success of youth is evident. Ware currently lives with her husband and three sons in Tennessee.

28 hope | Q2 2014

Cameka Smith

Benita Ibrahim

Becky A. Davis

Philanthropic life began with a love for children Philanthropist and North Texas advocate Benita Ibrahim is the founder and director of Beautiful Colors Daycare, offering exceptional education for children for the past 20 years. She created “The Body Method,” a unique curriculum teaching children confidence through handwriting.

Her educational background and love for the family challenges advocacy on behalf of young mothers, women entrepreneurs, and families through her business. She currently sits on the Board of Leadership Council at Northwood University. Benita lives in Arlington, Texas with her husband of 14 years, five children, and six grandchildren.

Ginger Whitley Superwoman success Starting two businesses, a women’s foundation, married while raising six children and pursuing a doctorate degree might be enough for one woman.

Ginger Whitley may exemplify these superwoman characteristics but she is not void of purpose or pleasure as she states her motivation for all of this is to serve others and empower women.

She is a successful entrepreneur receiving many business accolades in virtual staffing solutions through Seeing Angels Two

by Two, LLC, making more than a million dollars in revenue.

In addition, Whitley offers business consulting as the founder of West Georgia Consulting, LLC for Atlanta area businesses.

Irene Garcia Trading fear for compassion by adopting youth It takes a woman of tremendous courage to raise 32 children, which Irene Garcia and her husband Domingo have done willingly in the name of compassion and faith. Irene became a young mother at 15 years old, dealing with anger and self-destruction before eventually turning her life over to faith and forgiveness. She openly confesses in her testimony about witnessing the death of a child, battling drug abuse in her family and healing within her marriage.

Garcia happily lives in Magalia, California with her husband at age 62 still raising their youngest child who is nine years old.

Dr. Daphne McQuarter

Cheryl Action Jackson Pioneering charitable giving to uplift families with food Anyone who crosses the path of Cheryl Action Jackson and the staff of Minnie’s Food Pantry have the honor of receiving a blessing meant to improve the health of families. Jackson’s mission to start a charitable movement through this ministry has provided over 2 million meals to families.

Her selfless efforts stem from personal experiences of homelessness and discontent with the federal support for families. Since inception, Jackson has advocated for hundreds of families resulting in philanthropic and charitable gifts including $30,000 from BET Network and $25,000 from Hillshire Farm.

As Jackson continues to increase awareness, she is committed to continuing a legacy shepherding the hope of those in need.

Rescuing girls from trauma and delivering them to freedom Self-proclaimed “Freedom Chick” and activist, Dr. Daphne McQuarter can make it plain that a happy woman is a free woman. Her wisdom has been shared in large capacity through her non-profit networks Free 2 Be Me and Freedom Chicks, which challenges women to seek healing, as well as emotional and mental liberation. For the past 17 years, McQuarter has also been a dedicated advocate for the rescuing of girls from sex trafficking in the U.S., literally rescuing girls from the streets at 3 a.m. in cities with high trafficking numbers. If no one can prove otherwise, it’s evident that this woman can prove the meaning of a fearless compassion.

Challenging her sisters to lead the nation as fearless business leaders A mbitious entrepreneur Ca mek a Smith has chaperoned her online network as one of Forbes’ listed “Top 10 Entrepreneurial Websites for Women.” Since its founding in 2009, Smith launched the BOSS Network (Bringing Out Successful Sisters) in hopes of igniting a movement of uplifting women in the world of business. Smith also employs philanthropic ef forts by advocating for national health issues like Cervical Cancer and HIV/AIDS awareness. The dedicated speaker and coach currently lives in Chicago, where she inspires women to seek success through leadership development and fostering meaningful relationships in mentorship.

Marala Scott Inspired by Intuition and courageous pursuits Not many women have t he coura ge to sha re traumatizing experiences like having three brain aneurisms. Marala S c o t t i s t h a t t y p e of woman being recognized publicly for such courageous efforts receiving the Congressional Award and honored by Oprah’s Ambassador of Hope in 2009. Scott has two Amazon best sellers and recently published the novel Intuition detailing events inspired by true stories. In addition to being an author, Scott speaks regularly about topics in writing, career consultation and seeking happiness. spring 2014 | hope 29

feature | Women Who Inspire 2014

Angelia White

A courageous fortress of women in

A woman with a dream to create HOPE from the ground up Founder and CEO of Hope for Women Magazine Angelia White started with a dream to build a publication filled with the inspiring stories of Women and their path toward success. As a Ball State University alumna, White has been making strides of her own reaching more than 100,000 subscribers through HOPE’s digital magazine with a fast-growing readership and celebrity access. Through her work, White has managed to connect thousands of women by showcasing the faith-filled missions and lifestyles of ambitious women across the nation.

leadership by j oa n n a l eflo r e

As women who inspire, HOPE wanted to recognize the women with courageous voices. These women exemplify what it takes to speak up and live out their personal dreams. This year we congratulate those women of exceptional faith and empowerment.

Inspiring small business toward success through leadership transformation Inspiring women to transform their lives through leadership coaching, Becky Davis has record experience in corporate and entrepreneurship to pave the course. With over 20 years of leadership experience, Davis shelters her expertise under MVPwork LLC, a consulting and executive coaching firm based in Atlanta, Georgia. She speaks often of her mission to help small businesses grow through leadership training and genuine relationship building. She understands the importance of empowering small business leaders to ensure profit is accomplished with purpose. More importantly, she advocates for the empowerment of women entrepreneurs through a women business breakthrough boot camp.

Accomplished author and motivational speaker, aspiring business owners can keep up with Davis at www.mvpwork.com.

LaKeisha Rainey-Collins Mentoring women to embrace excellence LaKeisha Rainey-Collins, author, ministry leader and founder of Beauty For Ashes, Inc. has been answering the call to mentor women of God since 2012. When she is not leading women into excellence Lakeisha operates LRC Editing, a Christian business writing firm helping small businesses reach writing goals. Her passion for writing has helped her author her first title, “Beautiful Me: 21 Days to Embracing Your Beauty Within” (NyreePress, 2013) in addition to a self-published blog “Sentiments of My Heart.” She has a personal testimony of molestation and depression overcoming her fears through a spiritual relationship with Christ. LaKeisha currently lives Mobile, Alabama with her husband and three sons.

Monica Ware Encouraging young girls to seek fulfillment through faith Monica Ware is secure as a youth mentor and magazine publisher of Be You! Girl magazine. She has worked with youth for more than 20 years seeking to empower them and young girls in particular. Ware’s love of writing began with inspirational poems and newsletters and later led to founding the magazine featured online at beyougirl.com. Ware is not just talking the talk, but walking it having served as a Big Brothers Big Sisters mentor for two decades. Her passion for the success of youth is evident. Ware currently lives with her husband and three sons in Tennessee.

28 hope | Q2 2014

Cameka Smith

Benita Ibrahim

Becky A. Davis

Philanthropic life began with a love for children Philanthropist and North Texas advocate Benita Ibrahim is the founder and director of Beautiful Colors Daycare, offering exceptional education for children for the past 20 years. She created “The Body Method,” a unique curriculum teaching children confidence through handwriting.

Her educational background and love for the family challenges advocacy on behalf of young mothers, women entrepreneurs, and families through her business. She currently sits on the Board of Leadership Council at Northwood University. Benita lives in Arlington, Texas with her husband of 14 years, five children, and six grandchildren.

Ginger Whitley Superwoman success Starting two businesses, a women’s foundation, married while raising six children and pursuing a doctorate degree might be enough for one woman.

Ginger Whitley may exemplify these superwoman characteristics but she is not void of purpose or pleasure as she states her motivation for all of this is to serve others and empower women.

She is a successful entrepreneur receiving many business accolades in virtual staffing solutions through Seeing Angels Two

by Two, LLC, making more than a million dollars in revenue.

In addition, Whitley offers business consulting as the founder of West Georgia Consulting, LLC for Atlanta area businesses.

Irene Garcia Trading fear for compassion by adopting youth It takes a woman of tremendous courage to raise 32 children, which Irene Garcia and her husband Domingo have done willingly in the name of compassion and faith. Irene became a young mother at 15 years old, dealing with anger and self-destruction before eventually turning her life over to faith and forgiveness. She openly confesses in her testimony about witnessing the death of a child, battling drug abuse in her family and healing within her marriage.

Garcia happily lives in Magalia, California with her husband at age 62 still raising their youngest child who is nine years old.

Dr. Daphne McQuarter

Cheryl Action Jackson Pioneering charitable giving to uplift families with food Anyone who crosses the path of Cheryl Action Jackson and the staff of Minnie’s Food Pantry have the honor of receiving a blessing meant to improve the health of families. Jackson’s mission to start a charitable movement through this ministry has provided over 2 million meals to families.

Her selfless efforts stem from personal experiences of homelessness and discontent with the federal support for families. Since inception, Jackson has advocated for hundreds of families resulting in philanthropic and charitable gifts including $30,000 from BET Network and $25,000 from Hillshire Farm.

As Jackson continues to increase awareness, she is committed to continuing a legacy shepherding the hope of those in need.

Rescuing girls from trauma and delivering them to freedom Self-proclaimed “Freedom Chick” and activist, Dr. Daphne McQuarter can make it plain that a happy woman is a free woman. Her wisdom has been shared in large capacity through her non-profit networks Free 2 Be Me and Freedom Chicks, which challenges women to seek healing, as well as emotional and mental liberation. For the past 17 years, McQuarter has also been a dedicated advocate for the rescuing of girls from sex trafficking in the U.S., literally rescuing girls from the streets at 3 a.m. in cities with high trafficking numbers. If no one can prove otherwise, it’s evident that this woman can prove the meaning of a fearless compassion.

Challenging her sisters to lead the nation as fearless business leaders A mbitious entrepreneur Ca mek a Smith has chaperoned her online network as one of Forbes’ listed “Top 10 Entrepreneurial Websites for Women.” Since its founding in 2009, Smith launched the BOSS Network (Bringing Out Successful Sisters) in hopes of igniting a movement of uplifting women in the world of business. Smith also employs philanthropic ef forts by advocating for national health issues like Cervical Cancer and HIV/AIDS awareness. The dedicated speaker and coach currently lives in Chicago, where she inspires women to seek success through leadership development and fostering meaningful relationships in mentorship.

Marala Scott Inspired by Intuition and courageous pursuits Not many women have t he coura ge to sha re traumatizing experiences like having three brain aneurisms. Marala S c o t t i s t h a t t y p e of woman being recognized publicly for such courageous efforts receiving the Congressional Award and honored by Oprah’s Ambassador of Hope in 2009. Scott has two Amazon best sellers and recently published the novel Intuition detailing events inspired by true stories. In addition to being an author, Scott speaks regularly about topics in writing, career consultation and seeking happiness. spring 2014 | hope 29

feature | Women Inspire 2014 HeatherWho L . Tapia Prosperit y coach teaching Heather Palacios

abundant living As prosperity advisor and author, Heather Tapia offers advice from personal experience on the steps toward abundant living. Tapia also founded Purpose for Women International, while hosting t he BlogTa lk radio show “Giving You a Global Voice.”

She labels herself a social entrepreneur due to her founding of several companies focused on improving the mentality of others and their social environment through prosperity-driven training. Since 1998, Tapia’s holistic coaching has helped people monetize their passions in order to improve services and empower others. Her best advice for others seeking prosperity is to discover personal uniqueness and set their mind to performing the best expression of themselves despite obstacles they may encounter.

Kimberly D. Lett, J.D. Social justice ambassador On her blog she ta lk s about controversial issues like public breastfeeding and female prisons, among other issues in culture and society. Kimberly D. Lett, J.D. is also just as courageous as her blog topics, highlighting women who dare to stand boldly for such thought-provoking nodes.

Lett was practicing as a paralegal professionally before dedicating her time to the service of humanity, especially of the feminine construct. She founded floWERS! (focused ladies of Worth, Excellence, Resilience and Strength!), an online community for ambitious women to celebrate diversity and empowerment. Her activism online has engaged followers offering mentorship and advice serving as an ambassador for women-focused social issues.

Stephanie Kirkland

Identifying life’s blueprints in ministry Stephanie M. Kirkland has focused her consulting business on identity life coaching and spiritual development for more than 20 years. She also founded Titus Hall Center for Women, a faith-based learning community for diverse groups of women. She is an accomplished author, ministry leader and speaker touring year round on topics like self-discovery and identifying one’s life blueprint. Kirkland currently lives happily married and the mother of three sons.

30 hope | Q2 2014

Shelby Alexander Griggs

Reflecting on the joys of life, overcoming mental illness Proud servants of the Church at the Glades in Coral Springs, Florida, Heather and her husband Raul proudly raise their family while Heather maintains the online encouragement blog “WondHerful.” For six years she has offered her wisdom and humor to those dealing with mental illness. She constantly repeats a mantra that reminds her of her purpose in faith: “It is always too soon to give up!” If someone is seeking an uplifting post to get them through daily trials, visiting wondherful.com will offer some solace and encouragement for all.

Regina Baker Spiritual life coach and entrepreneur of faith Nicknamed a Direct S a le s R e ne g a d e by the New York Times, Regina Baker is a soughtafter information technology consultant and entrepreneur. Her experiences as a woman of faith and business have led to the position as a Certified Biblical Consultant along with directing the Transformation Radio show on BlogTalkRadio.com. Baker is also author of How to Let Go and Let God, a personal tale of triumph revealing Baker’s emotional struggles with her late husband’s diagnosis of terminal cancer. The book has led to a conference and boot camp series where Baker invites spiritual life coaches to help transform the lives of its attendees.

Dr. Lily L. Jenkins Consulting women in personal success through purpose Dr. Lily Jenkins serves as the vice president and co-founder of the Purpose Development Institute helping all certified coaches fulfill authentic service for their clients. As a Certified Human Behavior Consultant, Jenkins has a proven track record offering 16 years of teaching. She is also the author of nine books and mentors women through her Lady of Purpose Network, which trains women on how to use their purpose to drive personal happiness. Jenkins has pioneered as an ambassador for the Purpose Development message.

She is the contributor to many online networks focused on women entrepreneurship and is happily married living in Atlanta.

Tony Robinson No challenge too big for a woman with intention Tony Robinson is the founder of Well Watered Woman International, a global ministry to empower women through a 31-day challenge.

She is an accomplished author of a prayer journal called the Intentional ACTS of Prayer and the co-host of the online radio show Intimate Conversations on Love, Life and God. Robinson expresses most often about her personal testimony of dealing with autoimmune health disorders and holding a withstanding faith in God. When she is not in ministry or speaking publicly, Robison can be found encouraging women of all ages to seek joy over pain. She has been married for 25 years and is the mother of four faith-filled children.

Women Who Inspire 2014 | feature

Coach and mentor for women of faith Motivational speaker and author Shelby Alexander Griggs is an advocate for passion-driven living through her coaching and mentoring services. Featured on major outlets like USA Today and the Oprah Winfrey Network, Griggs makes a personal attempt to share her testimony while inspiring others to live out their dreams with aggression and determination. Currently author of four books, founder of GALS Inspired, and former board member for the Dallas Network of Career Women, Griggs also reaches people through non-profit service, while being dedicated to motherhood and marriage. If anyone understands what it means to be committed to family and career it’s this woman.

Lynette K. Dutton Taking on the mission to listen to the hearts of others Lynette K. Dutton is the co-pastor with her husband Dr. Joseph Dutton of The Epicenter Church in Forest City, North Carolina. By listening to her heart as a former spiritual leader at The Potter’s House, Dutton answered the call to branch out in 1982 pastoring a new flock. Dutton formerly worked for 20 years in leadership in Corporate America until founding a consulting business offering life and business coaching. Dutton hopes to reach more individuals openly stating her mission to improve the lives of women and couples.

LaTara V. Bussey

Giving up is not an option Dream chasing expert LaTara V. Bussey knows all too well about persevering through a dry season. She is currently an author and the owner of LVB Enterprises offering life coaching and business consulting ministry. She has had several successes in business enterprise as an Amazon best-selling author and excellent sales director for Mary Kay and Avon retail. Prior to her building her own enterprise, Bussey spent over a decade in depression when she lost her business in 1997, experienced homelessness and an abusive marriage. She overcame her dry season by adopting an attitude of a champion and obedience to God. Bussey currently lives in Oklahoma City, Oklahoma.

Dr. Taffy Wilkins Wagner Advocating healthy marriages and financial success Significantly known for her expertise in marriage and financial planning, Dr. Taffy Wagner is the essential authority for counseling happy couples. She has been happily married for 18 years and rightfully treated as an expert being featured by The Wall Street Journal, US News and online blogs. Wagner has success as an entrepreneur and writer owning Money Talk Matters, LLC and authoring three books on finance and healthy marriages. Her practice is well known to give tough advice for couples before they reach the altar. She currently resides in Denver with her husband and twin children.

Terry Grahl Decorating homes into transformative terraces Terry Grahl is in the business of creating memorable moments.

She is the CEO of Enchanted Makeovers with a background in design and decorative arts.

The mission of her visionary organization is to transform shelters for women and children into inspiring environments through healing and a supportive community. In just six years of business, the Society of Decorating Professionals formally recognized her work, having also remodeled dozens of homes for deserving families along the way. Grahl has dedicated her life to inspiring others through her work sharing a significant passion for women. Although she is a successful entrepreneur, Grahl is also a proud wife and mother of four kids.

Manda Hall Making style a worthy excuse for happiness and success Helping women dress with purpose is Manda Hall’s motto as expressed on her popular blog Dress with Purpose. Hall’s dedication to helping women appreciate their beauty has been the focus of her existence since leaving the corporate world and also becoming a full-time family woman. Her audience spans international reach while she encourages self-transformation, personal styling advice and faith driven service. She offers her expertise in the guise of community servant through organizations like The Princess Project San Diego, which offers prom dresses to girls with financial challenges. If anyone is interested in a crash course in style they can certainly satisfy their curiosity through Hall’s social media wardrobe challenges.

Michelle Hargrove Pursuing the restoration of women, hosting signature events New Jersey-based powerhouse and event planning expert Michelle Hargrove is an honest spokeswoman for self-less service. She is most popular for cultivating luxury experiences such as Restoration Weekend, an excursion devoted to rejuvenating women with busy lifestyles.

Hargrove also has a background in large conference planning like the Woman Thou Art Loosed national convention and MegaFest through The Potters House. She continues to channel her vision and legacy as the CEO of M. Hargrove Events and the VC Legacy Foundation. spring 2014 | hope 31

feature | Women Inspire 2014 HeatherWho L . Tapia Prosperit y coach teaching Heather Palacios

abundant living As prosperity advisor and author, Heather Tapia offers advice from personal experience on the steps toward abundant living. Tapia also founded Purpose for Women International, while hosting t he BlogTa lk radio show “Giving You a Global Voice.”

She labels herself a social entrepreneur due to her founding of several companies focused on improving the mentality of others and their social environment through prosperity-driven training. Since 1998, Tapia’s holistic coaching has helped people monetize their passions in order to improve services and empower others. Her best advice for others seeking prosperity is to discover personal uniqueness and set their mind to performing the best expression of themselves despite obstacles they may encounter.

Kimberly D. Lett, J.D. Social justice ambassador On her blog she ta lk s about controversial issues like public breastfeeding and female prisons, among other issues in culture and society. Kimberly D. Lett, J.D. is also just as courageous as her blog topics, highlighting women who dare to stand boldly for such thought-provoking nodes.

Lett was practicing as a paralegal professionally before dedicating her time to the service of humanity, especially of the feminine construct. She founded floWERS! (focused ladies of Worth, Excellence, Resilience and Strength!), an online community for ambitious women to celebrate diversity and empowerment. Her activism online has engaged followers offering mentorship and advice serving as an ambassador for women-focused social issues.

Stephanie Kirkland

Identifying life’s blueprints in ministry Stephanie M. Kirkland has focused her consulting business on identity life coaching and spiritual development for more than 20 years. She also founded Titus Hall Center for Women, a faith-based learning community for diverse groups of women. She is an accomplished author, ministry leader and speaker touring year round on topics like self-discovery and identifying one’s life blueprint. Kirkland currently lives happily married and the mother of three sons.

30 hope | Q2 2014

Shelby Alexander Griggs

Reflecting on the joys of life, overcoming mental illness Proud servants of the Church at the Glades in Coral Springs, Florida, Heather and her husband Raul proudly raise their family while Heather maintains the online encouragement blog “WondHerful.” For six years she has offered her wisdom and humor to those dealing with mental illness. She constantly repeats a mantra that reminds her of her purpose in faith: “It is always too soon to give up!” If someone is seeking an uplifting post to get them through daily trials, visiting wondherful.com will offer some solace and encouragement for all.

Regina Baker Spiritual life coach and entrepreneur of faith Nicknamed a Direct S a le s R e ne g a d e by the New York Times, Regina Baker is a soughtafter information technology consultant and entrepreneur. Her experiences as a woman of faith and business have led to the position as a Certified Biblical Consultant along with directing the Transformation Radio show on BlogTalkRadio.com. Baker is also author of How to Let Go and Let God, a personal tale of triumph revealing Baker’s emotional struggles with her late husband’s diagnosis of terminal cancer. The book has led to a conference and boot camp series where Baker invites spiritual life coaches to help transform the lives of its attendees.

Dr. Lily L. Jenkins Consulting women in personal success through purpose Dr. Lily Jenkins serves as the vice president and co-founder of the Purpose Development Institute helping all certified coaches fulfill authentic service for their clients. As a Certified Human Behavior Consultant, Jenkins has a proven track record offering 16 years of teaching. She is also the author of nine books and mentors women through her Lady of Purpose Network, which trains women on how to use their purpose to drive personal happiness. Jenkins has pioneered as an ambassador for the Purpose Development message.

She is the contributor to many online networks focused on women entrepreneurship and is happily married living in Atlanta.

Tony Robinson No challenge too big for a woman with intention Tony Robinson is the founder of Well Watered Woman International, a global ministry to empower women through a 31-day challenge.

She is an accomplished author of a prayer journal called the Intentional ACTS of Prayer and the co-host of the online radio show Intimate Conversations on Love, Life and God. Robinson expresses most often about her personal testimony of dealing with autoimmune health disorders and holding a withstanding faith in God. When she is not in ministry or speaking publicly, Robison can be found encouraging women of all ages to seek joy over pain. She has been married for 25 years and is the mother of four faith-filled children.

Women Who Inspire 2014 | feature

Coach and mentor for women of faith Motivational speaker and author Shelby Alexander Griggs is an advocate for passion-driven living through her coaching and mentoring services. Featured on major outlets like USA Today and the Oprah Winfrey Network, Griggs makes a personal attempt to share her testimony while inspiring others to live out their dreams with aggression and determination. Currently author of four books, founder of GALS Inspired, and former board member for the Dallas Network of Career Women, Griggs also reaches people through non-profit service, while being dedicated to motherhood and marriage. If anyone understands what it means to be committed to family and career it’s this woman.

Lynette K. Dutton Taking on the mission to listen to the hearts of others Lynette K. Dutton is the co-pastor with her husband Dr. Joseph Dutton of The Epicenter Church in Forest City, North Carolina. By listening to her heart as a former spiritual leader at The Potter’s House, Dutton answered the call to branch out in 1982 pastoring a new flock. Dutton formerly worked for 20 years in leadership in Corporate America until founding a consulting business offering life and business coaching. Dutton hopes to reach more individuals openly stating her mission to improve the lives of women and couples.

LaTara V. Bussey

Giving up is not an option Dream chasing expert LaTara V. Bussey knows all too well about persevering through a dry season. She is currently an author and the owner of LVB Enterprises offering life coaching and business consulting ministry. She has had several successes in business enterprise as an Amazon best-selling author and excellent sales director for Mary Kay and Avon retail. Prior to her building her own enterprise, Bussey spent over a decade in depression when she lost her business in 1997, experienced homelessness and an abusive marriage. She overcame her dry season by adopting an attitude of a champion and obedience to God. Bussey currently lives in Oklahoma City, Oklahoma.

Dr. Taffy Wilkins Wagner Advocating healthy marriages and financial success Significantly known for her expertise in marriage and financial planning, Dr. Taffy Wagner is the essential authority for counseling happy couples. She has been happily married for 18 years and rightfully treated as an expert being featured by The Wall Street Journal, US News and online blogs. Wagner has success as an entrepreneur and writer owning Money Talk Matters, LLC and authoring three books on finance and healthy marriages. Her practice is well known to give tough advice for couples before they reach the altar. She currently resides in Denver with her husband and twin children.

Terry Grahl Decorating homes into transformative terraces Terry Grahl is in the business of creating memorable moments.

She is the CEO of Enchanted Makeovers with a background in design and decorative arts.

The mission of her visionary organization is to transform shelters for women and children into inspiring environments through healing and a supportive community. In just six years of business, the Society of Decorating Professionals formally recognized her work, having also remodeled dozens of homes for deserving families along the way. Grahl has dedicated her life to inspiring others through her work sharing a significant passion for women. Although she is a successful entrepreneur, Grahl is also a proud wife and mother of four kids.

Manda Hall Making style a worthy excuse for happiness and success Helping women dress with purpose is Manda Hall’s motto as expressed on her popular blog Dress with Purpose. Hall’s dedication to helping women appreciate their beauty has been the focus of her existence since leaving the corporate world and also becoming a full-time family woman. Her audience spans international reach while she encourages self-transformation, personal styling advice and faith driven service. She offers her expertise in the guise of community servant through organizations like The Princess Project San Diego, which offers prom dresses to girls with financial challenges. If anyone is interested in a crash course in style they can certainly satisfy their curiosity through Hall’s social media wardrobe challenges.

Michelle Hargrove Pursuing the restoration of women, hosting signature events New Jersey-based powerhouse and event planning expert Michelle Hargrove is an honest spokeswoman for self-less service. She is most popular for cultivating luxury experiences such as Restoration Weekend, an excursion devoted to rejuvenating women with busy lifestyles.

Hargrove also has a background in large conference planning like the Woman Thou Art Loosed national convention and MegaFest through The Potters House. She continues to channel her vision and legacy as the CEO of M. Hargrove Events and the VC Legacy Foundation. spring 2014 | hope 31

cover | Natalie Grant

It Takes a Church

is hosted by multipletime grammy nominee and dove award winner.

Natalie Grant

It Takes

a Church

Being single doesn’t mean you do everything alone—even when it comes to finding true love.

Merriam-Webster dictionary defines the church as a building used for public Christian worship. That definition, however, does not suffice. As I have spent most of my life in the church, I find it hard just to regard church as a physical building. For me, along with many others, church is home. Church is a community. I have often found it true that, whatever one may need, it can be found within the walls of the church. Inspiration and hope are provided throughout the church.

In the sea of big hats that cover seasoned faces, wise counsel can be 32 hope | q3 2014

by b r i t t n e y r eel

found. In the classrooms lined down the hall, youthful girls and boys can be seen learning the truth about life. Hearty prayers, soulful songs, and convicting sermons are all a part of what I know to be church. It is far more than just a building. It is life, and nothing gets more real in life than love.

This is proven true with one of Game Show Network’s newest and highest rating shows, It Takes a Church, an honest and unique series that shows the commitment of churches around the nation to help single individuals in the congregation get a step closer to finding true love. Perhaps you may have felt like people are too nosy about your

love life; however, It Takes a Church portrays the rewarding experiences that come as a result of having a church full of people who are concerned enough about the matters of your heart to do something about it.

Each week during service, a single person in the congregation is completely shocked to know that the entire church, led by the pastor, has conspired to find “the one” for him or her. Each matchmaker stands and introduces who they all believe is perfect for the selected single. Of all the individuals, three contestants are chosen by the church, and one is handpicked as the “pastor’s pick.” Then, the dating games begin.

It Takes a Church is hosted by multiple-time Grammy nominee and Dove Award winner Natalie Grant. With an extensive and very successful music career, Grant never believed hosting would become one of the many hats she wears. With encouragement from her sister, who understands the frustration that comes with being a single in the church, Grant decided that she should indeed host the show. It is the belief and understanding that the church has not done enough to foster the single community that fueled Grant’s passion for the show, thus making her quite the remarkable host. Whereas she isn’t exactly the matchmaker amongst family and friends, she sometimes takes the responsibility as the relationship counselor where she may have to step in and encourage a loved one, often saying, “You better run from that.”

During the season, we saw Grant sing to each congregation and help

the contestants navigate through each phase of the competition. What we did not see was the counsel that she gave them to help make the decision-making process a little easier behind the scenes. She hopes that more of that will be shown in the next season.

“It isn’t as much a dating show but more saying to the world that we (Christians) are going to show another way to do it,” Grant explains, regarding the differences between It Takes a Church and other dating game shows.

It Takes a Church makes no promises—there are no proposals at the end of each episode. Rather, the show provides one date to invite the possibility of finding the perfect one with encouragement and advice from your pastor. The show discusses real issues, including celibacy, single parenting, and long distance relationships and whether or not they can work. The show delivers a certain authenticity that other dating shows that are aired today lack. Grant is pleased that this show represents Christians well but does not alienate others. It is simply a great show that makes real connections, as it was revealed that some of the couples are still dating even now.

Season one ended on a high note at the church pastored by gospel great Hezekiah Walker. This show is unique in that the community got to play matchmaker for the entire season.

Sometimes we get knocked around by love or the illusion of it.

It Takes a Church encourages single people to keep trying, though, because sometimes “a leap of faith can land a lifetime of love.” q3 2014 | hope 33

cover | Natalie Grant

It Takes a Church

is hosted by multipletime grammy nominee and dove award winner.

Natalie Grant

It Takes

a Church

Being single doesn’t mean you do everything alone—even when it comes to finding true love.

Merriam-Webster dictionary defines the church as a building used for public Christian worship. That definition, however, does not suffice. As I have spent most of my life in the church, I find it hard just to regard church as a physical building. For me, along with many others, church is home. Church is a community. I have often found it true that, whatever one may need, it can be found within the walls of the church. Inspiration and hope are provided throughout the church.

In the sea of big hats that cover seasoned faces, wise counsel can be 32 hope | q3 2014

by b r i t t n e y r eel

found. In the classrooms lined down the hall, youthful girls and boys can be seen learning the truth about life. Hearty prayers, soulful songs, and convicting sermons are all a part of what I know to be church. It is far more than just a building. It is life, and nothing gets more real in life than love.

This is proven true with one of Game Show Network’s newest and highest rating shows, It Takes a Church, an honest and unique series that shows the commitment of churches around the nation to help single individuals in the congregation get a step closer to finding true love. Perhaps you may have felt like people are too nosy about your

love life; however, It Takes a Church portrays the rewarding experiences that come as a result of having a church full of people who are concerned enough about the matters of your heart to do something about it.

Each week during service, a single person in the congregation is completely shocked to know that the entire church, led by the pastor, has conspired to find “the one” for him or her. Each matchmaker stands and introduces who they all believe is perfect for the selected single. Of all the individuals, three contestants are chosen by the church, and one is handpicked as the “pastor’s pick.” Then, the dating games begin.

It Takes a Church is hosted by multiple-time Grammy nominee and Dove Award winner Natalie Grant. With an extensive and very successful music career, Grant never believed hosting would become one of the many hats she wears. With encouragement from her sister, who understands the frustration that comes with being a single in the church, Grant decided that she should indeed host the show. It is the belief and understanding that the church has not done enough to foster the single community that fueled Grant’s passion for the show, thus making her quite the remarkable host. Whereas she isn’t exactly the matchmaker amongst family and friends, she sometimes takes the responsibility as the relationship counselor where she may have to step in and encourage a loved one, often saying, “You better run from that.”

During the season, we saw Grant sing to each congregation and help

the contestants navigate through each phase of the competition. What we did not see was the counsel that she gave them to help make the decision-making process a little easier behind the scenes. She hopes that more of that will be shown in the next season.

“It isn’t as much a dating show but more saying to the world that we (Christians) are going to show another way to do it,” Grant explains, regarding the differences between It Takes a Church and other dating game shows.

It Takes a Church makes no promises—there are no proposals at the end of each episode. Rather, the show provides one date to invite the possibility of finding the perfect one with encouragement and advice from your pastor. The show discusses real issues, including celibacy, single parenting, and long distance relationships and whether or not they can work. The show delivers a certain authenticity that other dating shows that are aired today lack. Grant is pleased that this show represents Christians well but does not alienate others. It is simply a great show that makes real connections, as it was revealed that some of the couples are still dating even now.

Season one ended on a high note at the church pastored by gospel great Hezekiah Walker. This show is unique in that the community got to play matchmaker for the entire season.

Sometimes we get knocked around by love or the illusion of it.

It Takes a Church encourages single people to keep trying, though, because sometimes “a leap of faith can land a lifetime of love.” q3 2014 | hope 33

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Saturday 18 10am october 2014 -2pm brebeuf jesuit preparatory school Join us as we officially launch the ‘MENTAL FITNESS IS THE NEW SEXY’ campaign Keynote Speaker: Dr. Nzinga Harrison, respected physician and educator Moderator: Glendal Jones, renowned broadcast journalist Event will also include: • In-depth look at Mental Fitness • Dynamic group of panelists • Yoga and guided meditation • Healthy snacks and more...

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The Best of Everything you need to meet your entertainment-loving needs

Fall by a l i s s a ro g ows k i

As the smoldering days of summer wind down, and the leaves take their annual autumn hues, you’ll be looking for ways to chill out and enjoy the coming cool and easy weather before winter lashes out with ice and snow. Here are all of the good movies, books, and music you can look forward to between September and November to help you enjoy the best of the fall season.

Movies

Any woman who has a thing for romance novels knows that Nicholas Sparks is the king of all things love-related. With classics like The Notebook and Dear John already capturing the hearts of ladies both in print and on screen, it’s no doubt that his novel, The Best of Me will captivate audiences when it hits the big screen on October 16. Starring James Marsden and Michelle Monaghan, the film follows two former high school sweethearts who meet up 20 years after their split that was caused by the woman’s disapproving father. Will their love last this time around? You’ll have to check it out to see what happens, but either way, we’re sure that, just like every other Nicholas Sparks book and film, you’ll be tearing up and feeling those warm fuzzies.

In another book-to-film adaptation, police work to figure out whether or not a husband, who paints his relationship to seem blissful, is actually his wife’s murderer. Gone Girl, the hugely popular novel by Gillian Flynn, is taking to the big screen October 3, with Ben Affleck as the lead. With director David Fincher (Fight Club, Se7en, The Social Network) at the helm of this mystery, you’re sure to be on the edge of your seat until the very end. Whether it’s date night or girls’ night, this one will be the perfect thriller to get you hyped up for Halloween.

Of course, the fall movie schedule wouldn’t be complete without a widely anticipated sequel. On November 21, the third installment of the internationally successful Hunger Games series makes its debut in theaters across the U.S. Based on the novels of the same name, the movies follow Katniss Everdeen, a teenage girl in a futuristic utopian society who is chosen to compete in the annual “Hunger Games,” in which, children and teens fight each other to the death until a sole victor remains. In this third installment, Mockingjay, Katniss and her friends rebel against their government in protest of the Hunger Games. Like the two before it, Mockingjay stars Jennifer Lawrence and Josh Hutcherson. Though the film is adapted from the third and final book in the trilogy, it’s split into two parts, so audiences will only get the first half in the new movie. With the huge success of the first two movies, Mockingjay is sure to be a hit this fall with both audiences and at the box office.

Music

In November, “X Factor” judge Cheryl Cole will release her fourth studio album, titled “Only Human.”

The songstress has been busy over the past couple of years, touring by herself and with the group, Girls Aloud. Taking some time off to spend with her family, Cole decided to let loose a little, prompting the title for her album. Considering how upbeat and catchy her single, “Crazy, Stupid Love” is, we’re sure that the album will be a great way to reminisce on the upcoming cool nights.

With a reputation like hers, there’s no way this album can go wrong. Former Destiny’s Child member Michelle Williams will release her fourth solo album, “Journey to Freedom,” September 9. Williams already released the first single, “Say Yes,” from the album, which features both Beyonce and Kelly Rowland. The album takes Williams back to her gospel roots, with both upbeat, infectious songs and q3 2014 | hope 35

Photo – Alissa Rogowski

let’s get

The Guide (Best Books, Movies & Music) | entertainment

Darlene Schacht | relationships

entertainment |

The Guide (Best Books, Movies & Music)

R&B-flavored hits. You can preorder the album now on Amazon. Go ahead, explore your inner diva and check this one out!

On S e pt e mb er 2 , C a l i f or n i a-b a s e d p op rock favorite Maroon 5 will release its fifth studio album, titled “V.” Maroon 5 had huge commercial success with its previous album, “Overexposed,” and we’re extremely excited to hear what the band has in store this time around.

Produced by a mixture of famous faces, including Max Martin and Ryan Tedder, “V” should have a great mix of catchy beats to compliment singer Adam Levine’s killer vocals. While you’re waiting for the album to drop, check out the single, “Maps,” available on Spotify and iTunes.

Books

If you’re looking for something to pique your interest and keep you busy over the fall months, look no further than David Mitchell’s The Bone Clocks, set for a September 2 release. Author of the novel-turned-film, Cloud Atlas, Mitchell once again brings his mastery of interconnected tales, spinning a story mystery and suspense between two characters. On one hand, 15-year-old Holly, a runaway and hotspot for psychic phenomena, wanders the English countryside before a disappearance shocks and scars her family. On the other, a Cambridge student, a father, and a conflicted writer weave themselves in and out of the story, shaping the events that occur. To find out more and solve the mystery, you can preorder your copy on Amazon.

If you’re looking for something a little scarier, especially around Halloween, be sure to check out Stephen King’s new novel, Revival, set for a November release. His second novel this year, and fourth in the past two years, Revival features a town that becomes infatuated when a new minister and his beautiful wife move in, promising to transform the church and town. When tragedy strikes the town, the minister and his wife are banished. Decades later, a young boy from the town meets the minister again and learns the true meaning of revival. If you’re ready for something along the lines of Nathaniel Hawthorne or Edgar Allen Poe, this one’s for you.

After his international success with The Crimson Petal and the White, Michael Faber is back with a brand new, genre-defying novel, The Book of Strange New Things. In the novel, the main character, Peter, becomes immersed in a new life overseen by a corporation only known as USIC. While working with this new corporation, Peter is separated from his wife, Bea, whose letters back and forth with him become increasingly more desperate. While Bea struggles for survival, and Peter attends to the needs of his new employer, their relationship is tested in ways they would have never expected. Sound interesting? Snatch up your copy and find out what happens when it’s released on October 28.

There you have it—a list complete with all of the things you’ll definitely need to check out between September and November. Your fall season has never looked so entertaining!

36 hope | Q3 2014

Finding Time for the Ones We Love by da r l en e s ch ach t

Time spent with those who matter most to us is never wasted “Mom, can you come with me?” she asked.

It wasn’t easy saying yes; in fact, I desperately wanted to say no. All I needed was to be left alone for a while—so I could get things done, so I could reach my deadlines, so I could have a sense of peace.

But there she was, standing in front of me pleading. “C’mon,” she said. “I don’t like going there alone.”

Technically she wouldn’t be “alone.” There were two cats in the house. All she had to do was cross the street, change the litter box, and pour a little food into their bowls. How difficult could that be?

After some hemming and hawing, I came to the conclusion that, for the most part, the gifts were forgotten.

Ask any of them what we did last summer, and they remember the countless moments that we spent together as a family, including things as simple as our late-night drives.

Those are the moments that count in this life.

Time spent together is one of the best ways to say, “You matter to me.” It means that we’re willing to put our passions aside for the good of another.

Pretty simple really, but my daughter’s a lot like me when it comes to going anywhere solo. She needs a sidekick to remind her she’s not alone in this world. And some days I need a kick in the side to remind me that the loved ones in my family are not interruptions to my otherwise busy life—they are my life.

Growing up, there was basically one major distraction in our house— the television. Although we watched TV together, many people were concerned that this box was separating the family unit. People were glued to their TV sets, and little time was spent communicating with each other. Fast forward 30 years, and we see a different picture. Whether we’re in the car, on the beach, or at the park, we’re surrounded by technology that’s vying for our attention.

I remember when I landed my first job, and $2.70 an hour gave me just enough spending money to keep up with my friends. It was all about me; I couldn’t spend it fast enough. Clothing, magazines, makeup, pizza—I was a well-stocked 16-year-old without a care in the world. Shoes I had; worries, not so much.

But here’s the thing: it’s not really about technology. That’s merely a sign of our time. What we’re really talking about here are priorities and the importance of setting them well.

With a roof over my head and a well-stocked fridge, I didn’t see the need to contribute. Thankfully, somewhere along the lines, maturity and responsibility finally kicked in, and I came to realize that investments are an important part of our lives. Not just the way that we invest our money but, most importantly, how we invest our time. The gift of time is one of the greatest gifts that you can offer your family.

Earlier today I asked my kids, “Do any of you remember what you got for your birthdays last year?”

Sometimes priorities are like a warm blanket on a cool night. Like when you set aside a date night with your husband. Other times, it’s more like walking on a bed of nails. Those are the ones that call us to exercise virtue and to walk in compassionate love. When all you want to do is grab an hour of sleep, and you’re up for the fourth night straight with a colicky infant—that’s a gift unlike any other you could possibly give.

Who can find a virtuous woman? For her price is far above rubies…She looketh well to the ways of her household, and eateth not the bread of idleness.

– Proverbs 31:10&27 q3 2014 | hope 37

Darlene Schacht | relationships

entertainment |

The Guide (Best Books, Movies & Music)

R&B-flavored hits. You can preorder the album now on Amazon. Go ahead, explore your inner diva and check this one out!

On S e pt e mb er 2 , C a l i f or n i a-b a s e d p op rock favorite Maroon 5 will release its fifth studio album, titled “V.” Maroon 5 had huge commercial success with its previous album, “Overexposed,” and we’re extremely excited to hear what the band has in store this time around.

Produced by a mixture of famous faces, including Max Martin and Ryan Tedder, “V” should have a great mix of catchy beats to compliment singer Adam Levine’s killer vocals. While you’re waiting for the album to drop, check out the single, “Maps,” available on Spotify and iTunes.

Books

If you’re looking for something to pique your interest and keep you busy over the fall months, look no further than David Mitchell’s The Bone Clocks, set for a September 2 release. Author of the novel-turned-film, Cloud Atlas, Mitchell once again brings his mastery of interconnected tales, spinning a story mystery and suspense between two characters. On one hand, 15-year-old Holly, a runaway and hotspot for psychic phenomena, wanders the English countryside before a disappearance shocks and scars her family. On the other, a Cambridge student, a father, and a conflicted writer weave themselves in and out of the story, shaping the events that occur. To find out more and solve the mystery, you can preorder your copy on Amazon.

If you’re looking for something a little scarier, especially around Halloween, be sure to check out Stephen King’s new novel, Revival, set for a November release. His second novel this year, and fourth in the past two years, Revival features a town that becomes infatuated when a new minister and his beautiful wife move in, promising to transform the church and town. When tragedy strikes the town, the minister and his wife are banished. Decades later, a young boy from the town meets the minister again and learns the true meaning of revival. If you’re ready for something along the lines of Nathaniel Hawthorne or Edgar Allen Poe, this one’s for you.

After his international success with The Crimson Petal and the White, Michael Faber is back with a brand new, genre-defying novel, The Book of Strange New Things. In the novel, the main character, Peter, becomes immersed in a new life overseen by a corporation only known as USIC. While working with this new corporation, Peter is separated from his wife, Bea, whose letters back and forth with him become increasingly more desperate. While Bea struggles for survival, and Peter attends to the needs of his new employer, their relationship is tested in ways they would have never expected. Sound interesting? Snatch up your copy and find out what happens when it’s released on October 28.

There you have it—a list complete with all of the things you’ll definitely need to check out between September and November. Your fall season has never looked so entertaining!

36 hope | Q3 2014

Finding Time for the Ones We Love by da r l en e s ch ach t

Time spent with those who matter most to us is never wasted “Mom, can you come with me?” she asked.

It wasn’t easy saying yes; in fact, I desperately wanted to say no. All I needed was to be left alone for a while—so I could get things done, so I could reach my deadlines, so I could have a sense of peace.

But there she was, standing in front of me pleading. “C’mon,” she said. “I don’t like going there alone.”

Technically she wouldn’t be “alone.” There were two cats in the house. All she had to do was cross the street, change the litter box, and pour a little food into their bowls. How difficult could that be?

After some hemming and hawing, I came to the conclusion that, for the most part, the gifts were forgotten.

Ask any of them what we did last summer, and they remember the countless moments that we spent together as a family, including things as simple as our late-night drives.

Those are the moments that count in this life.

Time spent together is one of the best ways to say, “You matter to me.” It means that we’re willing to put our passions aside for the good of another.

Pretty simple really, but my daughter’s a lot like me when it comes to going anywhere solo. She needs a sidekick to remind her she’s not alone in this world. And some days I need a kick in the side to remind me that the loved ones in my family are not interruptions to my otherwise busy life—they are my life.

Growing up, there was basically one major distraction in our house— the television. Although we watched TV together, many people were concerned that this box was separating the family unit. People were glued to their TV sets, and little time was spent communicating with each other. Fast forward 30 years, and we see a different picture. Whether we’re in the car, on the beach, or at the park, we’re surrounded by technology that’s vying for our attention.

I remember when I landed my first job, and $2.70 an hour gave me just enough spending money to keep up with my friends. It was all about me; I couldn’t spend it fast enough. Clothing, magazines, makeup, pizza—I was a well-stocked 16-year-old without a care in the world. Shoes I had; worries, not so much.

But here’s the thing: it’s not really about technology. That’s merely a sign of our time. What we’re really talking about here are priorities and the importance of setting them well.

With a roof over my head and a well-stocked fridge, I didn’t see the need to contribute. Thankfully, somewhere along the lines, maturity and responsibility finally kicked in, and I came to realize that investments are an important part of our lives. Not just the way that we invest our money but, most importantly, how we invest our time. The gift of time is one of the greatest gifts that you can offer your family.

Earlier today I asked my kids, “Do any of you remember what you got for your birthdays last year?”

Sometimes priorities are like a warm blanket on a cool night. Like when you set aside a date night with your husband. Other times, it’s more like walking on a bed of nails. Those are the ones that call us to exercise virtue and to walk in compassionate love. When all you want to do is grab an hour of sleep, and you’re up for the fourth night straight with a colicky infant—that’s a gift unlike any other you could possibly give.

Who can find a virtuous woman? For her price is far above rubies…She looketh well to the ways of her household, and eateth not the bread of idleness.

– Proverbs 31:10&27 q3 2014 | hope 37

food | Recipes

Slow-Cooker for FastRescue Paced Life

Just because life seems like it is constantly moving at a rapid pace doesn’t mean your cooking has to do the same. by l e a n n r i ce Just because life seems like it is constantly moving at a rapid pace doesn’t mean your cooking has to do the same.

I love my slow-cooker! Actually, I should say, “I love my slow-cookers,” as I have more than one. I have four of them, all in different sizes, and, while I use them year around, I tend to use them more frequently in the fall months. At that very first crisp evening toward the middle of September, I feel compelled to layer onions, apples, and a pork roast inside one of my slow-cookers so the scent of slow-roasting pork and apples will fill my home with the scent of fall.

With kids heading back to school and schedules filling up with afterschool activities, the crockpot can be your best friend. You’ll be able to get a hot meal on the table AND get to soccer practice on time. And that’s just one of the many benefits of using your slow-cooker (or crockpot) for preparing your meals.

Here are my top 10 reasons for dusting off your slow-cooker: 1. It’s so easy, anyone can use it, so it’s great for a new cook (and makes a perfect gift for a newlywed).

2. It’s economical, as you can use the less expensive cuts of meat that will become tender as they slowly cook.

3. It saves time! You can layer your ingredients in your slow-cooker and place it in the refrigerator overnight. In the morning, simply place the insert into the heating element, and turn it on. It will cook while you shop, clean, work, run errands, play with the kids, etc.

4. It’s a healthy way to prepare food, as it requires little or no added fat for cooking.

5. Super easy cleanup! I use crockpot liners, so all I have to do is remove them then rinse out my crockpot after use. Plus, everything cooks in the one pot.

6. It fills your home with the most amazing fragrance. It’s like you bottled the “Gramma’s house for Sunday supper” smell.

7. If company’s coming and the food is done, you can simply turn the knob to “warm,” and your food will stay perfectly heated without overcooking like it would in the oven.

8. It’s basically burn-proof. Because it cooks at such a low temperature, it’s near impossible to burn a pot roast!

9. It frees your oven so you can bake rolls or a pie while dinner is cooking. This is extra helpful during the busy holiday season.

10. Cooking meals in a crockpot will not heat up your kitchen like cooking in your oven will. For that reason, I use my crockpot quite a lot during the summer months.

38 hope | q3 2014

Here are some of my favorite slow-cooker recipes:

Southern-Style Beef Tips over Rice

I have a thing about rice and brown gravy. Something special happens when you spoon rich beef gravy over rice—it’s like happiness on a fork. It’s one of my favorite comfort foods.

Crockpot Pork with Cabbage and Apples Makes 6-8 servings Ingredients

1 large onion, cut in half and then thinly sliced 2 Granny Smith apples, peeled and sliced Pork sirloin roast, boneless (usually tied in string— remove string before using)—use whatever size works for your family and fits in your crock pot.

32-oz package sauerkraut (in the deli section around prepared foods or the hotdogs) 12-oz container frozen apple juice concentrate, thawed 2 cloves garlic, minced 1/2 cup brown sugar 1/2 teaspoon cayenne pepper

Preparation

PArrange half of the onions and half of the apples in the bottom of your crockpot. Lay roast on top of the onions and apples. Cover with remaining half of onions and apples. Rinse and drain the sauerkraut, and spread over the top of the pork roast. Pour the juice over all. Sprinkle with the minced garlic, brown sugar and cayenne. Set slow-cooker on low, and cook for 8-9 hours or until pork begins to fall apart.

Makes 6-8 servings Ingredients

3 pounds beef tips or stew meat Salt and black pepper 1 onion, peeled and chopped 1 (8-ounce) package sliced fresh mushrooms 1 green bell pepper, seeded and chopped 1 (10.5-ounce) can cream of mushroom soup 2 tablespoons Worcestershire sauce 3 cloves garlic, minced 1/2 cup white wine 1 1/2 cups beef broth 6 cups hot, cooked rice for serving

Slow-Cooker Barbecue

Preparation

Ingredients

Season the beef with salt and pepper, and place in a slow cooker. Top with the onions, mushrooms, and green peppers.

In a medium bowl, whisk together the cream of mushroom soup, onion soup mix, Worcestershire, and garlic until smooth. Whisk in the wine and beef broth until combined, then pour over the beef.

Cover and cook on low for 8-9 hours.

Serve over hot, cooked rice.

Here in the South, we take our barbecue very seriously.

Heated competitions are held throughout the summer months with grill masters proudly presenting their smoky offerings to the judging panel and to hungry, drooling guests. At the risk of being branded a Yankee, I present my Slow-Cooker Barbecue for those of us without a pit in our backyard. It won’t win a grill master contest, but I guarantee it will bring a tear to your eye.

Makes 10 servings 2 medium yellow onions, peeled, cut in half, then sliced 3-pound chuck beef or pork roast 2 (18-ounce) bottles barbecue sauce 1 or 2 jalapeño peppers (if you like spicy barbecue) 10 toasted sesame seed buns Coleslaw (recipe follows), for serving Onion strings (recipe follows), for serving

Preparation

Place half of the onions in the bottom of a slow-cooker. Lay the roast over the onions, then top with the remaining onions.

Pour the barbecue sauce over the onions. If using jalapeños, cut in half, and scrape out the seeds. Tuck them around the roast.

Cover and cook on low for 8 hours or until the meat falls apart easily.

Remove the meat from the slow cooker, and place on a large cutting board. Use two forks to shred the meat. Spoon enough of the barbecue sauce over the meat to moisten.

Serve shredded meat on toasted sesame seed buns with coleslaw and onion strings, if desired.

Coleslaw

The only coleslaw I will eat is the one my mom made when I was growing up. So, of course, her recipe is the only one I make. I made one tiny change to Mom’s recipe by adding a minced shallot. I love this coleslaw so much—it’s the perfect cool and creamy partner to spicy barbeque.

Makes 6-8 servings Ingredients

2 heaping tablespoons mayonnaise 2 tablespoons vegetable oil 4 tablespoons cider vinegar 2 tablespoons sugar 1 shallot, peeled and minced Salt and black pepper to taste 1 head green cabbage 3 carrots

Preparation

In a jar with a tight-fitting lid, combine the mayonnaise, oil, vinegar, sugar, and shallot by shaking until smooth. Season with salt and pepper to taste.

Remove the outer leaves from the head of cabbage, then cut into quarters, and remove the core. Thinly slice quarters to a shredded consistency, and place in a large bowl. Peel and shred the carrots on a box grater and add to the bowl. Pour the dressing over the cabbage mixture, and stir to combine. Cover and let sit in the refrigerator for 1 hour before serving.

Onion Strings Ingredients

Vegetable oil for frying 2 onions or 5–6 shallots 1/2 cup all-purpose flour 1/2 teaspoon salt 1/4 teaspoon black pepper

Preparation

Place a heavy skillet over medium-high heat, and fill with oil to 1/2 inch deep. Bring oil to 375 degrees. (If you don’t have a thermometer, you can test the oil by dropping a pinch of flour into the oil. If it sizzles, the oil is hot enough.)

While the oil heats, peel and thinly slice the onions or shallots.

In a shallow dish combine the flour, salt, and pepper. Add the onions or shallots, breaking into pieces as you toss to coat.

Shake off excess flour as you drop the onions into the hot oil. Fry until crispy, stirring gently only as needed to keep from burning. Drain on paper towels.

q3 2014 | hope 39

food | Recipes

Slow-Cooker for FastRescue Paced Life

Just because life seems like it is constantly moving at a rapid pace doesn’t mean your cooking has to do the same. by l e a n n r i ce Just because life seems like it is constantly moving at a rapid pace doesn’t mean your cooking has to do the same.

I love my slow-cooker! Actually, I should say, “I love my slow-cookers,” as I have more than one. I have four of them, all in different sizes, and, while I use them year around, I tend to use them more frequently in the fall months. At that very first crisp evening toward the middle of September, I feel compelled to layer onions, apples, and a pork roast inside one of my slow-cookers so the scent of slow-roasting pork and apples will fill my home with the scent of fall.

With kids heading back to school and schedules filling up with afterschool activities, the crockpot can be your best friend. You’ll be able to get a hot meal on the table AND get to soccer practice on time. And that’s just one of the many benefits of using your slow-cooker (or crockpot) for preparing your meals.

Here are my top 10 reasons for dusting off your slow-cooker: 1. It’s so easy, anyone can use it, so it’s great for a new cook (and makes a perfect gift for a newlywed).

2. It’s economical, as you can use the less expensive cuts of meat that will become tender as they slowly cook.

3. It saves time! You can layer your ingredients in your slow-cooker and place it in the refrigerator overnight. In the morning, simply place the insert into the heating element, and turn it on. It will cook while you shop, clean, work, run errands, play with the kids, etc.

4. It’s a healthy way to prepare food, as it requires little or no added fat for cooking.

5. Super easy cleanup! I use crockpot liners, so all I have to do is remove them then rinse out my crockpot after use. Plus, everything cooks in the one pot.

6. It fills your home with the most amazing fragrance. It’s like you bottled the “Gramma’s house for Sunday supper” smell.

7. If company’s coming and the food is done, you can simply turn the knob to “warm,” and your food will stay perfectly heated without overcooking like it would in the oven.

8. It’s basically burn-proof. Because it cooks at such a low temperature, it’s near impossible to burn a pot roast!

9. It frees your oven so you can bake rolls or a pie while dinner is cooking. This is extra helpful during the busy holiday season.

10. Cooking meals in a crockpot will not heat up your kitchen like cooking in your oven will. For that reason, I use my crockpot quite a lot during the summer months.

38 hope | q3 2014

Here are some of my favorite slow-cooker recipes:

Southern-Style Beef Tips over Rice

I have a thing about rice and brown gravy. Something special happens when you spoon rich beef gravy over rice—it’s like happiness on a fork. It’s one of my favorite comfort foods.

Crockpot Pork with Cabbage and Apples Makes 6-8 servings Ingredients

1 large onion, cut in half and then thinly sliced 2 Granny Smith apples, peeled and sliced Pork sirloin roast, boneless (usually tied in string— remove string before using)—use whatever size works for your family and fits in your crock pot.

32-oz package sauerkraut (in the deli section around prepared foods or the hotdogs) 12-oz container frozen apple juice concentrate, thawed 2 cloves garlic, minced 1/2 cup brown sugar 1/2 teaspoon cayenne pepper

Preparation

PArrange half of the onions and half of the apples in the bottom of your crockpot. Lay roast on top of the onions and apples. Cover with remaining half of onions and apples. Rinse and drain the sauerkraut, and spread over the top of the pork roast. Pour the juice over all. Sprinkle with the minced garlic, brown sugar and cayenne. Set slow-cooker on low, and cook for 8-9 hours or until pork begins to fall apart.

Makes 6-8 servings Ingredients

3 pounds beef tips or stew meat Salt and black pepper 1 onion, peeled and chopped 1 (8-ounce) package sliced fresh mushrooms 1 green bell pepper, seeded and chopped 1 (10.5-ounce) can cream of mushroom soup 2 tablespoons Worcestershire sauce 3 cloves garlic, minced 1/2 cup white wine 1 1/2 cups beef broth 6 cups hot, cooked rice for serving

Slow-Cooker Barbecue

Preparation

Ingredients

Season the beef with salt and pepper, and place in a slow cooker. Top with the onions, mushrooms, and green peppers.

In a medium bowl, whisk together the cream of mushroom soup, onion soup mix, Worcestershire, and garlic until smooth. Whisk in the wine and beef broth until combined, then pour over the beef.

Cover and cook on low for 8-9 hours.

Serve over hot, cooked rice.

Here in the South, we take our barbecue very seriously.

Heated competitions are held throughout the summer months with grill masters proudly presenting their smoky offerings to the judging panel and to hungry, drooling guests. At the risk of being branded a Yankee, I present my Slow-Cooker Barbecue for those of us without a pit in our backyard. It won’t win a grill master contest, but I guarantee it will bring a tear to your eye.

Makes 10 servings 2 medium yellow onions, peeled, cut in half, then sliced 3-pound chuck beef or pork roast 2 (18-ounce) bottles barbecue sauce 1 or 2 jalapeño peppers (if you like spicy barbecue) 10 toasted sesame seed buns Coleslaw (recipe follows), for serving Onion strings (recipe follows), for serving

Preparation

Place half of the onions in the bottom of a slow-cooker. Lay the roast over the onions, then top with the remaining onions.

Pour the barbecue sauce over the onions. If using jalapeños, cut in half, and scrape out the seeds. Tuck them around the roast.

Cover and cook on low for 8 hours or until the meat falls apart easily.

Remove the meat from the slow cooker, and place on a large cutting board. Use two forks to shred the meat. Spoon enough of the barbecue sauce over the meat to moisten.

Serve shredded meat on toasted sesame seed buns with coleslaw and onion strings, if desired.

Coleslaw

The only coleslaw I will eat is the one my mom made when I was growing up. So, of course, her recipe is the only one I make. I made one tiny change to Mom’s recipe by adding a minced shallot. I love this coleslaw so much—it’s the perfect cool and creamy partner to spicy barbeque.

Makes 6-8 servings Ingredients

2 heaping tablespoons mayonnaise 2 tablespoons vegetable oil 4 tablespoons cider vinegar 2 tablespoons sugar 1 shallot, peeled and minced Salt and black pepper to taste 1 head green cabbage 3 carrots

Preparation

In a jar with a tight-fitting lid, combine the mayonnaise, oil, vinegar, sugar, and shallot by shaking until smooth. Season with salt and pepper to taste.

Remove the outer leaves from the head of cabbage, then cut into quarters, and remove the core. Thinly slice quarters to a shredded consistency, and place in a large bowl. Peel and shred the carrots on a box grater and add to the bowl. Pour the dressing over the cabbage mixture, and stir to combine. Cover and let sit in the refrigerator for 1 hour before serving.

Onion Strings Ingredients

Vegetable oil for frying 2 onions or 5–6 shallots 1/2 cup all-purpose flour 1/2 teaspoon salt 1/4 teaspoon black pepper

Preparation

Place a heavy skillet over medium-high heat, and fill with oil to 1/2 inch deep. Bring oil to 375 degrees. (If you don’t have a thermometer, you can test the oil by dropping a pinch of flour into the oil. If it sizzles, the oil is hot enough.)

While the oil heats, peel and thinly slice the onions or shallots.

In a shallow dish combine the flour, salt, and pepper. Add the onions or shallots, breaking into pieces as you toss to coat.

Shake off excess flour as you drop the onions into the hot oil. Fry until crispy, stirring gently only as needed to keep from burning. Drain on paper towels.

q3 2014 | hope 39

food | holiday

dp relationship | life

Use Fall to Prepare for

End-of-Year Holidays by ch ef h . d. h a r r i s

None of us is quite prepared for the beginning of holiday season in the fall, but we can certainly make efforts to be ready in advance.

Shortly, we will see TV commercials and ads urging us to buy more and do more. Maybe it is too early to think about Thanksgiving, Christmas or Hanukah, and the New Year, but don’t feel like you have to wait to plan those meals and organize your kitchen in preparation.

It is never too early to look at the calendar to choose which holiday you will host this year. If you are feeling ambitious, you can do them all or just one. I suggest no more than two. Planning to host a dinner in your home can be costly, time-consuming, and stressful, to say the least. Here are five things you can do right now to make the process so much easier.

Lastly, organize space in your pantry, cupboards, and drawers for hosting. This one step can save you time and needless stress.

1 2 3 4 5

Make your guest list, and set a limit on the how many people you will invite. Stick to both.

The Compassion in

Decluttering

People If there is any area Declutter Now! is questioned, challenged, or otherwise grilled on most, it’s decluttering people. Just saying it sounds so, well, “non-Christian.” by s h er ry g a r ei s

Decluttering unnecessary material things is applauded. Decluttering excessive financial debt is celebrated. Decluttering unhealthy eating habits is praised. But decluttering a person? It’s just cruel.

Or is it?

Prepare a complete menu, from the appetizers to assorted breads to kids’ beverages. If you start early, you can generate your grocery list and purchase all of the non-perishable items, including paper goods. Make sure they have expiration dates that will take you through the New Year. Designate an area in the pantry for those items, or store in a plastic bin. This way you will not be tempted to grab them for an immediate meal.

I propose there are legitimate reasons to declutter and a loving, compassionate way to carry it out.

Order desserts from your local baker, and put deposits on rental equipment such as chairs and tables.

Oftentimes we know that a relationship is destructive and should be severed, but we sit on the fence of indecision and inaction.

Because you are starting early, this would be an ideal time to choose a recipe you have wanted to make for a long time. It can be labor-intensive with a lot of new cooking techniques and utensils. Starting early gives you the opportunity to test it out a few times on family and friends and also allows you to locate hard-to-find ingredients. By party time you will be able to whiz right through it.

If we are called to declutter out of obedience, and we know what we should do, why are we frequently paralyzed? Our emotions, insecurities, and brokenness overtake our judgment and undermine our efforts. Here are some common excuses we hear:

Budget for assistance in the form of a personal chef for larger gatherings or simply for the help needed to shop, prep meals, or cook side dishes. There are so many ways to utilize a personal chef at holiday time, some more affordable than others. Consider it as an option.

In the book, Declutter Now! Uncovering the Hidden Joy and Freedom in Your Life, which I co-authored with my husband, we share instances where God calls us to declutter relationships. God warns us about being in the “companion of fools” and clearly states that “the way of the wicked will lead us astray.” God has no problem asking us to cut ties with people who are detrimental to our well-being.

“This person is my mother, brother, cousin, etc.”

“I feel sorry for them.”

“The last thing I want to do is hurt their feelings.”

“In spite of the ongoing drama, I’ll miss my friend too much.”

“This person has done so much for me, and I feel indebted to them.”

“I’m going to see this person often, and I don’t want it to be awkward.”

I can’t fault anyone for these sentiments, because I’ve personally experienced all of them at one point or another. I struggle with the same guilt, obligation, pity, and misguided logic, but no good comes from it.

Here are 5 steps to shift from Decluttering Stress to Success!

1. Don’t declutter when you’re angry or upset. We are called, regardless of the circumstance, to speak truth in love. Don’t sabotage the right decision with the wrong approach. Avoid impulsivity and a result you may regret.

2. Base your decision on firsthand facts. Don’t rely on a third party’s word or story, despite how trustworthy he or she appears.

3. Insist on face-to-face communication. In today’s world of technology, truth easily gets lost in translation. Don’t make critical decisions based solely on a text, email, or social media post.

4. Make certain that this person should be decluttered. Sometimes an honest conversation is in order. Other times a shift in relationship status by changing the type and frequency of interaction is enough to do the trick. Prayerfully and thoughtfully consider all options before taking action.

5. Set healthy boundaries, and know when it’s time to pull the trigger and declutter. Is the relationship unhealthy, full of drama, or only maintained because of feelings of guilt or obligation?

When it’s time to protect yourself, it’s time, and there’s no reason to procrastinate.

Which leads to the heart of my message. Don’t procrastinate!

Not only will dragging your feet cause you more harm than good, but there is zero compassion in delaying the inevitable for the other person.

Let’s say, after the fact, you found out that someone didn’t want to associate with you but did so under duress, self-imposed or otherwise.

How would you feel? Where is the compassion in causing someone to feel hurt and possibly embarrassed or ashamed?

There is none.

When decluttering is necessary, take action. Speak truth bathed in love. Demonstrate honesty and strength. Shine your light and witness warmly in spite of the turmoil. Take responsibility, and kindly let them off the hook.

THAT, my friends, is true compassion.

So, ladies, what are we to do?

40 hope | q3 2014

q3 2014 | hope 41

food | holiday

dp relationship | life

Use Fall to Prepare for

End-of-Year Holidays by ch ef h . d. h a r r i s

None of us is quite prepared for the beginning of holiday season in the fall, but we can certainly make efforts to be ready in advance.

Shortly, we will see TV commercials and ads urging us to buy more and do more. Maybe it is too early to think about Thanksgiving, Christmas or Hanukah, and the New Year, but don’t feel like you have to wait to plan those meals and organize your kitchen in preparation.

It is never too early to look at the calendar to choose which holiday you will host this year. If you are feeling ambitious, you can do them all or just one. I suggest no more than two. Planning to host a dinner in your home can be costly, time-consuming, and stressful, to say the least. Here are five things you can do right now to make the process so much easier.

Lastly, organize space in your pantry, cupboards, and drawers for hosting. This one step can save you time and needless stress.

1 2 3 4 5

Make your guest list, and set a limit on the how many people you will invite. Stick to both.

The Compassion in

Decluttering

People If there is any area Declutter Now! is questioned, challenged, or otherwise grilled on most, it’s decluttering people. Just saying it sounds so, well, “non-Christian.” by s h er ry g a r ei s

Decluttering unnecessary material things is applauded. Decluttering excessive financial debt is celebrated. Decluttering unhealthy eating habits is praised. But decluttering a person? It’s just cruel.

Or is it?

Prepare a complete menu, from the appetizers to assorted breads to kids’ beverages. If you start early, you can generate your grocery list and purchase all of the non-perishable items, including paper goods. Make sure they have expiration dates that will take you through the New Year. Designate an area in the pantry for those items, or store in a plastic bin. This way you will not be tempted to grab them for an immediate meal.

I propose there are legitimate reasons to declutter and a loving, compassionate way to carry it out.

Order desserts from your local baker, and put deposits on rental equipment such as chairs and tables.

Oftentimes we know that a relationship is destructive and should be severed, but we sit on the fence of indecision and inaction.

Because you are starting early, this would be an ideal time to choose a recipe you have wanted to make for a long time. It can be labor-intensive with a lot of new cooking techniques and utensils. Starting early gives you the opportunity to test it out a few times on family and friends and also allows you to locate hard-to-find ingredients. By party time you will be able to whiz right through it.

If we are called to declutter out of obedience, and we know what we should do, why are we frequently paralyzed? Our emotions, insecurities, and brokenness overtake our judgment and undermine our efforts. Here are some common excuses we hear:

Budget for assistance in the form of a personal chef for larger gatherings or simply for the help needed to shop, prep meals, or cook side dishes. There are so many ways to utilize a personal chef at holiday time, some more affordable than others. Consider it as an option.

In the book, Declutter Now! Uncovering the Hidden Joy and Freedom in Your Life, which I co-authored with my husband, we share instances where God calls us to declutter relationships. God warns us about being in the “companion of fools” and clearly states that “the way of the wicked will lead us astray.” God has no problem asking us to cut ties with people who are detrimental to our well-being.

“This person is my mother, brother, cousin, etc.”

“I feel sorry for them.”

“The last thing I want to do is hurt their feelings.”

“In spite of the ongoing drama, I’ll miss my friend too much.”

“This person has done so much for me, and I feel indebted to them.”

“I’m going to see this person often, and I don’t want it to be awkward.”

I can’t fault anyone for these sentiments, because I’ve personally experienced all of them at one point or another. I struggle with the same guilt, obligation, pity, and misguided logic, but no good comes from it.

Here are 5 steps to shift from Decluttering Stress to Success!

1. Don’t declutter when you’re angry or upset. We are called, regardless of the circumstance, to speak truth in love. Don’t sabotage the right decision with the wrong approach. Avoid impulsivity and a result you may regret.

2. Base your decision on firsthand facts. Don’t rely on a third party’s word or story, despite how trustworthy he or she appears.

3. Insist on face-to-face communication. In today’s world of technology, truth easily gets lost in translation. Don’t make critical decisions based solely on a text, email, or social media post.

4. Make certain that this person should be decluttered. Sometimes an honest conversation is in order. Other times a shift in relationship status by changing the type and frequency of interaction is enough to do the trick. Prayerfully and thoughtfully consider all options before taking action.

5. Set healthy boundaries, and know when it’s time to pull the trigger and declutter. Is the relationship unhealthy, full of drama, or only maintained because of feelings of guilt or obligation?

When it’s time to protect yourself, it’s time, and there’s no reason to procrastinate.

Which leads to the heart of my message. Don’t procrastinate!

Not only will dragging your feet cause you more harm than good, but there is zero compassion in delaying the inevitable for the other person.

Let’s say, after the fact, you found out that someone didn’t want to associate with you but did so under duress, self-imposed or otherwise.

How would you feel? Where is the compassion in causing someone to feel hurt and possibly embarrassed or ashamed?

There is none.

When decluttering is necessary, take action. Speak truth bathed in love. Demonstrate honesty and strength. Shine your light and witness warmly in spite of the turmoil. Take responsibility, and kindly let them off the hook.

THAT, my friends, is true compassion.

So, ladies, what are we to do?

40 hope | q3 2014

q3 2014 | hope 41

food | Recipes

Lemon Blueberry Bread Pudding

Bread pudding for breakfast, you say? Yes, please!

I can’t stop my mouth from watering when I think about this amazing bread pudding! If you are a big bread pudding fan, you will fall in love with this recipe.

breakfast Don’t Make

Ingredients

So Fast

Mexican Strada Cups

This is a Mexican fiesta in a cup. This is my go-to breakfast recipe, because you just throw everything together and bake it up; it’s as simple as that.

It’s important to slow down and use your morning meals to spend time with your family and with the Lord

Makes 24 servings Ingredients

8 large eggs 1 can creamed corn 2 7-ounce cans of diced green chiles, drained 1 1/2 cups milk 3 1/2 cups sharp cheddar cheese, shredded 1 tablespoon Worcestershire sauce Sour cream, tabasco, and salsa for serving

by to r i wi n k el m a n

Mornings can be hectic, and too often we forget to slow down and start the day with those we love.

It has been said that the kitchen is the heart of the home, and I believe that to be true. Some of my favorite memories are sitting down at the kitchen table with my family. We would talk, laugh, and share stories about our day. In our fast-paced world, it has become rare to sit down around the kitchen table for a meal—we have become accustomed to skipping over family time.

However, something else has also become rare: spending daily quality time with the Lord. God is the true heart of the home, but sometimes we are going so fast and are so busy that we miss out on those special moments with our families and even the quiet moments with the Lord.

Faith, Hope, Love, and a Whisk: Breakfast with the Savior invites you to slow down and spend that quality time with your family and with God. When I started out on this journey, I wanted to combine two of my favorite things: my passion for learning and sharing about Jesus and my love of cooking. Faith, Hope, Love, and a Whisk: Breakfast with the Savior combines those two passions. I chose breakfast specifically, because it starts your morning off right. Before the chaos of the days starts, while you’re waiting for your breakfast to cook in the oven, you can sit down and spend time with the Lord by reading the devotional with your cup of coffee. Not only does this grow your relationship with God, but it also gives you a chance to bring family time back into the picture. When your husband and children wake up, they can sit down at the kitchen table where you can create your own memories as a family.

Family is so important, yet there are many broken homes that are caused by a lack of communication. Breakfast and dinner are often spent around the TV, at the local coffee house on the way to work, in separate rooms, or skipped altogether. Just as Jesus Christ wants us to grow our relationships with Him through prayer and devotion, we should also 42 hope | q3 2014

Preparation

be growing our relationships with our families through spending time together and communicating. God and family go hand-in-hand—these are the relationships that are most important in our lives. Proverbs 14:1 says, “The wise woman builds her house, but the foolish pulls it down with her hands.” Whether we are the caring wife, loving mom, or active career woman, we need to be strong Christian influences in our homes, building our homes up in Christ. Fellowship with one another is the way to do that.

My hope for this book is that women will be able to delve deeper into God’s Word so that they can strengthen their relationships with Jesus Christ, while at the same time bringing their families around the kitchen table to share home-cooked meals and create memories that will draw them closer together.

So, I want to invite you to grab your cup of coffee and have Breakfast with the Savior.

Preheat the oven to 350 degrees.

In a large bowl, whisk together the eggs, creamed corn, green chiles, milk, 2 1/2 cups cheddar cheese, and Worcestershire sauce.

Take your cupcake tin, and coat it well with cooking spray. Then, using either a ladle or a spoon, pour the mixture into each cup, filling it almost to the top; sprinkle the extra cheddar cheese on the top of each cup.

Bake for 45 minutes or until the tops are lightly browned, then let cool for 10 minutes. With a knife, trace the sides on each cup to prevent from sticking, and scoop them out with a spoon. Don’t worry if there is liquid at the bottom of the tin—it is just juice from the green chiles. Makes 24 servings. Serve with salsa, sour cream, and Tabasco. (Note: This can also be made in a 9” x 13” Pyrex dish.)

Pineapple Brunch Punch

The name says it all. I love serving this at brunches, tea parties, special occasions—you name it. It’s a huge hit with kids!

Makes 12 servings Ingredients

48 ounces canned crushed pineapple 48 ounces canned pineapple juice 6 bananas, mashed 1 can frozen concentrated orange juice (16 fluid ounces) 1 can frozen concentrated lemonade (12 fluid ounces) 3 cups sugar

1/2 loaf French bread, cut into 1-inch cubes 12 ounces fresh blueberries 1 quart whole milk 3 eggs, beaten 2 cups Sugar 1 1/2 tablespoons vanilla 3 tablespoons lemon juice 1/4 teaspoon nutmeg 1 teaspoon cinnamon 3 tablespoons unsalted butter, melted Sauce: 1/2 cup butter 1 cup cream (Not heavy cream) 1 cup sugar 1 egg yolk 1 teaspoon vanilla 1/2 tablespoon lemon zest 1 tablespoon lemon juice 1 tablespoon flour

Preparation

Preheat the oven to 350 degrees.

Butter a 9” x 13” Pyrex dish, and layer the bread pieces and blueberries with the last layer being the blueberries.

Pour entire quart of whole milk evenly over the bread, and set aside.

In a small bowl, mix together eggs, sugar, vanilla, lemon juice, nutmeg, cinnamon, and melted butter. Pour over the bread and blueberries, making sure you hit every visible bread cube on the top.

Cover with foil, and bake for 55 minutes to one hour or until lightly brown.

Sauce: While the bread pudding is cooking, whisk all ingredients in a saucepan over medium-to-low heat, stirring rapidly and making sure the egg doesn’t divide into little chunks. As soon as the bread pudding comes out of the oven, immediately pour the sauce over the top. Let sit for 10 to 15 minutes before serving.

10 cups water 6 Ziplock bags, 1 gallon each 6 1-liter bottles of Sprite

Preparation

In a large pot or bowl, mix together the first seven ingredients. Fill three bags half-way, seal out all of the air, and close. Double all of the bags, and freeze upright in the freezer overnight. An hour before your brunch or event, take out one of the gallon bags, place in a punch bowl, and, with a spoon, chop at it to break it into large chunks.

Pour in a whole liter of Sprite, stir, and enjoy! Once the punch gets low, take out another bag, chop it up, and add another liter of Sprite. Serves about 12 people. q3 2014 | hope 43

food | Recipes

Lemon Blueberry Bread Pudding

Bread pudding for breakfast, you say? Yes, please!

I can’t stop my mouth from watering when I think about this amazing bread pudding! If you are a big bread pudding fan, you will fall in love with this recipe.

breakfast Don’t Make

Ingredients

So Fast

Mexican Strada Cups

This is a Mexican fiesta in a cup. This is my go-to breakfast recipe, because you just throw everything together and bake it up; it’s as simple as that.

It’s important to slow down and use your morning meals to spend time with your family and with the Lord

Makes 24 servings Ingredients

8 large eggs 1 can creamed corn 2 7-ounce cans of diced green chiles, drained 1 1/2 cups milk 3 1/2 cups sharp cheddar cheese, shredded 1 tablespoon Worcestershire sauce Sour cream, tabasco, and salsa for serving

by to r i wi n k el m a n

Mornings can be hectic, and too often we forget to slow down and start the day with those we love.

It has been said that the kitchen is the heart of the home, and I believe that to be true. Some of my favorite memories are sitting down at the kitchen table with my family. We would talk, laugh, and share stories about our day. In our fast-paced world, it has become rare to sit down around the kitchen table for a meal—we have become accustomed to skipping over family time.

However, something else has also become rare: spending daily quality time with the Lord. God is the true heart of the home, but sometimes we are going so fast and are so busy that we miss out on those special moments with our families and even the quiet moments with the Lord.

Faith, Hope, Love, and a Whisk: Breakfast with the Savior invites you to slow down and spend that quality time with your family and with God. When I started out on this journey, I wanted to combine two of my favorite things: my passion for learning and sharing about Jesus and my love of cooking. Faith, Hope, Love, and a Whisk: Breakfast with the Savior combines those two passions. I chose breakfast specifically, because it starts your morning off right. Before the chaos of the days starts, while you’re waiting for your breakfast to cook in the oven, you can sit down and spend time with the Lord by reading the devotional with your cup of coffee. Not only does this grow your relationship with God, but it also gives you a chance to bring family time back into the picture. When your husband and children wake up, they can sit down at the kitchen table where you can create your own memories as a family.

Family is so important, yet there are many broken homes that are caused by a lack of communication. Breakfast and dinner are often spent around the TV, at the local coffee house on the way to work, in separate rooms, or skipped altogether. Just as Jesus Christ wants us to grow our relationships with Him through prayer and devotion, we should also 42 hope | q3 2014

Preparation

be growing our relationships with our families through spending time together and communicating. God and family go hand-in-hand—these are the relationships that are most important in our lives. Proverbs 14:1 says, “The wise woman builds her house, but the foolish pulls it down with her hands.” Whether we are the caring wife, loving mom, or active career woman, we need to be strong Christian influences in our homes, building our homes up in Christ. Fellowship with one another is the way to do that.

My hope for this book is that women will be able to delve deeper into God’s Word so that they can strengthen their relationships with Jesus Christ, while at the same time bringing their families around the kitchen table to share home-cooked meals and create memories that will draw them closer together.

So, I want to invite you to grab your cup of coffee and have Breakfast with the Savior.

Preheat the oven to 350 degrees.

In a large bowl, whisk together the eggs, creamed corn, green chiles, milk, 2 1/2 cups cheddar cheese, and Worcestershire sauce.

Take your cupcake tin, and coat it well with cooking spray. Then, using either a ladle or a spoon, pour the mixture into each cup, filling it almost to the top; sprinkle the extra cheddar cheese on the top of each cup.

Bake for 45 minutes or until the tops are lightly browned, then let cool for 10 minutes. With a knife, trace the sides on each cup to prevent from sticking, and scoop them out with a spoon. Don’t worry if there is liquid at the bottom of the tin—it is just juice from the green chiles. Makes 24 servings. Serve with salsa, sour cream, and Tabasco. (Note: This can also be made in a 9” x 13” Pyrex dish.)

Pineapple Brunch Punch

The name says it all. I love serving this at brunches, tea parties, special occasions—you name it. It’s a huge hit with kids!

Makes 12 servings Ingredients

48 ounces canned crushed pineapple 48 ounces canned pineapple juice 6 bananas, mashed 1 can frozen concentrated orange juice (16 fluid ounces) 1 can frozen concentrated lemonade (12 fluid ounces) 3 cups sugar

1/2 loaf French bread, cut into 1-inch cubes 12 ounces fresh blueberries 1 quart whole milk 3 eggs, beaten 2 cups Sugar 1 1/2 tablespoons vanilla 3 tablespoons lemon juice 1/4 teaspoon nutmeg 1 teaspoon cinnamon 3 tablespoons unsalted butter, melted Sauce: 1/2 cup butter 1 cup cream (Not heavy cream) 1 cup sugar 1 egg yolk 1 teaspoon vanilla 1/2 tablespoon lemon zest 1 tablespoon lemon juice 1 tablespoon flour

Preparation

Preheat the oven to 350 degrees.

Butter a 9” x 13” Pyrex dish, and layer the bread pieces and blueberries with the last layer being the blueberries.

Pour entire quart of whole milk evenly over the bread, and set aside.

In a small bowl, mix together eggs, sugar, vanilla, lemon juice, nutmeg, cinnamon, and melted butter. Pour over the bread and blueberries, making sure you hit every visible bread cube on the top.

Cover with foil, and bake for 55 minutes to one hour or until lightly brown.

Sauce: While the bread pudding is cooking, whisk all ingredients in a saucepan over medium-to-low heat, stirring rapidly and making sure the egg doesn’t divide into little chunks. As soon as the bread pudding comes out of the oven, immediately pour the sauce over the top. Let sit for 10 to 15 minutes before serving.

10 cups water 6 Ziplock bags, 1 gallon each 6 1-liter bottles of Sprite

Preparation

In a large pot or bowl, mix together the first seven ingredients. Fill three bags half-way, seal out all of the air, and close. Double all of the bags, and freeze upright in the freezer overnight. An hour before your brunch or event, take out one of the gallon bags, place in a punch bowl, and, with a spoon, chop at it to break it into large chunks.

Pour in a whole liter of Sprite, stir, and enjoy! Once the punch gets low, take out another bag, chop it up, and add another liter of Sprite. Serves about 12 people. q3 2014 | hope 43

health | fitness

Skinny Confidential

e h t

Fitness and beauty guru, Lauryn Evarts’ book, “The Skinny Confidential” aims to help you not only get in shape but also boost your confidence and bring out your best self.

With chapters that give advice on the perfect recipes, workouts, and hair and makeup tips to lead the perfect healthy, balanced lifestyle, this book may just be your new bible. With a subtitle like “A Babe’s Sexy, Sassy Fitness and Lifestyle Guide,” we knew that this one would be something to check out. After reading through everything Evarts had to say about becoming the best “you” possible, we caught up with her to find out more about what inspired her to become a fitness, fashion, and lifestyle role model.

According to Evarts, it all started while she was attending San Diego State University.

“There was a void in the market, because there weren’t many healthy options,” Evarts says. “I decided I wanted to start a platform to connect with women everywhere that encompassed healthy tips, food substations, and easy workouts.”

From that idea, her book, “The Skinny Confidential,” blossomed and turned into a “full lifestyle,” in which she can discuss relationships, travel, skinny cocktails, beauty, recipes, and fitness tips.

Throughout the book, Evarts gets up close and personal, opting out of using a structured format, and instead using the same kind of language you’d use with your best friend. Rather than spilling the straight facts, she lets you in on her weaknesses and guilty pleasures, creating the ideal balance between your weekly conversation with your nutritionist and trainer, and your gossip-filled lunch date with your girlfriends.

bya l i s s a ro g ows k i

to make my own healthy jam.”

While reading, it’s easy to see and feel how much passion Evarts has for helping other people reach their goals. In fact, before she decided to write her lifestyle guide, she earned her nutrition certification at the International Sports Science Association in hopes of become a nutritionist. However, she decided that wasn’t the right fit for her.

“I ultimately decided that I wanted to create a lifestyle brand,” she says about her choice to pursue helping people in all aspects of health. “So, ‘The Skinny Confidential’ was born.”

Along with the workout tips and nutrition tricks that Evarts swears by, she offers up a plethora of products to fall in love with to keep your hair, skin, and appearance as beautiful as the rest of your body. A firm believer in all-natural products, Evarts frequently opts out of using chemical products, and instead chooses to use products such as all-natural soap and grape seed oil. With makeup, though, she says it is best never to skip eyelash primer.

Though her book may be targeted more toward women between the age of 15 and 45, Evarts truly seeks to inspire as many people as she can in all stages of life. She hopes that through her book and her blog of the same name to help others create balanced lives.

body | health

Use the Best of Fall to

Bring Out the Best in You! by r en ee wi g g i n s

As summer fades away, the new season allows for the chance for you to restore your energy and spend time finding the best in yourself.

I love the fall: the air is crisp and cleaner, and the temperature is cooler.

The leaves begin to turn yellow, orange, and red. My mood changes to placid and quiet, and I seem to slow down. As a matter of fact, I study how the weather and the environment change. I like the fall weather, because I can sit on my patio without the mosquitoes or flies brothering me. It is a form of mediation for me to sit quietly and still my mind.

Fall is a reminder of the end of the hot summer days and the beginning of cool, relaxing weather. It is the time of the year to renew, refresh, and rejuvenate your mind, body, and soul.

Even my diet changes, and I eat more comfort foods: soups, winter salads, and sandwiches. The smell of hot tea brewing in the morning re-energizes my body and soul. Spending the weekends sipping hot apple cider or cocoa with friends is about renewing friendships and maintaining old ones.

During the fall, I take online classes to improve my skills—this season is great time to take cooking classes, especially around the holidays.

Think of fall as a season of change and renewal. Sit back and reflect on the prior seasons, and think about how the last few months in the year

will be different. View the best of fall as a reason to bring out the best in you.

Here are some ways to become your best self as autumn settles in: 1. Take classes online or offline 2. Rekindle friendships 3. Register for a charity walk to meet new people and get exercise 4. Get to know your town or city by signing up for a walking or cycling tour 5. Take a bus tour to a nearby city (day or night) with some friends, and have a meal afterward 6. Create and develop a health and wellness plan you can follow into the next year 7. Indulge a hobby or resurrect an interest that you have neglected, or explore a new one One last important task: As you slow down your pace, rev up your commitment to you. After all, you are the best person you will ever know.

If you’re interested in learning more about Evarts and her goals to create a mini “Skinny Confidential” empire, pick up a copy of her book, “The Skinny Confidential,” and start looking out for the other projects that she has up her sleeves, set to be out later this year.

When it comes to giving advice, Evarts provides both sides, sympathizing with your weaknesses but also offering alternatives so that women won’t be inhibited in terms of exercise and eating healthy.

“Running is definitely not the love of my life,” she says about incorporating cardio into your workout routine. “Like, I hate it. I prefer anything that gets my heart rate up. Recently I’ve been loving the Cardio Zone workouts, where you shock your heart rate and take it up and down for 30 minutes.”

While Evarts praises juicing and all of its benefits, she know a juicer can be quite an investment. Throughout her book, she provides other options to those living on tight budgets.

“Eggs are always great,” she says about cheap, healthy eats. “Also, a quick, little tip: I mash berries together with chia seeds 44 @hopemag | q3 2014

winter | hope 45 q2 2014 |2014 @hopemag

health | fitness

Skinny Confidential

e h t

Fitness and beauty guru, Lauryn Evarts’ book, “The Skinny Confidential” aims to help you not only get in shape but also boost your confidence and bring out your best self.

With chapters that give advice on the perfect recipes, workouts, and hair and makeup tips to lead the perfect healthy, balanced lifestyle, this book may just be your new bible. With a subtitle like “A Babe’s Sexy, Sassy Fitness and Lifestyle Guide,” we knew that this one would be something to check out. After reading through everything Evarts had to say about becoming the best “you” possible, we caught up with her to find out more about what inspired her to become a fitness, fashion, and lifestyle role model.

According to Evarts, it all started while she was attending San Diego State University.

“There was a void in the market, because there weren’t many healthy options,” Evarts says. “I decided I wanted to start a platform to connect with women everywhere that encompassed healthy tips, food substations, and easy workouts.”

From that idea, her book, “The Skinny Confidential,” blossomed and turned into a “full lifestyle,” in which she can discuss relationships, travel, skinny cocktails, beauty, recipes, and fitness tips.

Throughout the book, Evarts gets up close and personal, opting out of using a structured format, and instead using the same kind of language you’d use with your best friend. Rather than spilling the straight facts, she lets you in on her weaknesses and guilty pleasures, creating the ideal balance between your weekly conversation with your nutritionist and trainer, and your gossip-filled lunch date with your girlfriends.

bya l i s s a ro g ows k i

to make my own healthy jam.”

While reading, it’s easy to see and feel how much passion Evarts has for helping other people reach their goals. In fact, before she decided to write her lifestyle guide, she earned her nutrition certification at the International Sports Science Association in hopes of become a nutritionist. However, she decided that wasn’t the right fit for her.

“I ultimately decided that I wanted to create a lifestyle brand,” she says about her choice to pursue helping people in all aspects of health. “So, ‘The Skinny Confidential’ was born.”

Along with the workout tips and nutrition tricks that Evarts swears by, she offers up a plethora of products to fall in love with to keep your hair, skin, and appearance as beautiful as the rest of your body. A firm believer in all-natural products, Evarts frequently opts out of using chemical products, and instead chooses to use products such as all-natural soap and grape seed oil. With makeup, though, she says it is best never to skip eyelash primer.

Though her book may be targeted more toward women between the age of 15 and 45, Evarts truly seeks to inspire as many people as she can in all stages of life. She hopes that through her book and her blog of the same name to help others create balanced lives.

body | health

Use the Best of Fall to

Bring Out the Best in You! by r en ee wi g g i n s

As summer fades away, the new season allows for the chance for you to restore your energy and spend time finding the best in yourself.

I love the fall: the air is crisp and cleaner, and the temperature is cooler.

The leaves begin to turn yellow, orange, and red. My mood changes to placid and quiet, and I seem to slow down. As a matter of fact, I study how the weather and the environment change. I like the fall weather, because I can sit on my patio without the mosquitoes or flies brothering me. It is a form of mediation for me to sit quietly and still my mind.

Fall is a reminder of the end of the hot summer days and the beginning of cool, relaxing weather. It is the time of the year to renew, refresh, and rejuvenate your mind, body, and soul.

Even my diet changes, and I eat more comfort foods: soups, winter salads, and sandwiches. The smell of hot tea brewing in the morning re-energizes my body and soul. Spending the weekends sipping hot apple cider or cocoa with friends is about renewing friendships and maintaining old ones.

During the fall, I take online classes to improve my skills—this season is great time to take cooking classes, especially around the holidays.

Think of fall as a season of change and renewal. Sit back and reflect on the prior seasons, and think about how the last few months in the year

will be different. View the best of fall as a reason to bring out the best in you.

Here are some ways to become your best self as autumn settles in: 1. Take classes online or offline 2. Rekindle friendships 3. Register for a charity walk to meet new people and get exercise 4. Get to know your town or city by signing up for a walking or cycling tour 5. Take a bus tour to a nearby city (day or night) with some friends, and have a meal afterward 6. Create and develop a health and wellness plan you can follow into the next year 7. Indulge a hobby or resurrect an interest that you have neglected, or explore a new one One last important task: As you slow down your pace, rev up your commitment to you. After all, you are the best person you will ever know.

If you’re interested in learning more about Evarts and her goals to create a mini “Skinny Confidential” empire, pick up a copy of her book, “The Skinny Confidential,” and start looking out for the other projects that she has up her sleeves, set to be out later this year.

When it comes to giving advice, Evarts provides both sides, sympathizing with your weaknesses but also offering alternatives so that women won’t be inhibited in terms of exercise and eating healthy.

“Running is definitely not the love of my life,” she says about incorporating cardio into your workout routine. “Like, I hate it. I prefer anything that gets my heart rate up. Recently I’ve been loving the Cardio Zone workouts, where you shock your heart rate and take it up and down for 30 minutes.”

While Evarts praises juicing and all of its benefits, she know a juicer can be quite an investment. Throughout her book, she provides other options to those living on tight budgets.

“Eggs are always great,” she says about cheap, healthy eats. “Also, a quick, little tip: I mash berries together with chia seeds 44 @hopemag | q3 2014

winter | hope 45 q2 2014 |2014 @hopemag

Have you ever said you were alright, but you really weren't?

home | Kitchen

Home Transitioning from Summer to Fall

with Kim Myles by ch r i s b av en d er

Learning to be you can take form in every aspect of your life—even in your home décor.

As the summer weather starts to give way to fall’s crisp air, many of us turn our thoughts to changes in our homes. Whether it’s new throw pillows or fresh paint in the bedroom, even small changes can make big differences When it comes to emerging trends for fall colors, decorator Kim Myles— who hosts Home Made Simple on OWN—said you should delete the word “trend” from your vocabulary.

“I’m the wrong woman to ask about trends—I don’t believe in them at all,” Myles said. “I gave up on fashion trends in favor of what works for my body and life, and the same should be true of home décor.”

Myles recommends concentrating more on texture than color in trying to bring about an autumn feel. For instance, using velvet or canvas in place of light, linen curtains is a good starting transition.

“Basically, you want to create a feeling of warmth and coziness in 46 hope | q3 2014

preparation for the change in season,” she said. “Add a vase of branches filled with colorful fall leaves to your entry or mantle for an instant reminder of crisp days to come.”

If incorporating new colors into your home can seem “daunting,” Myles suggests working “bite-sized.”

“If you’re ready to try a new, bold color palette, start with throw pillows,” she said. “They’re inexpensive and easy to switch out in case you don’t end up loving the new hue. If you’re ready to dip your whole leg in versus your toe, then go for a painted panel. Pick a focal wall—in the entryway or behind the sofa, bed or dining table—and mask out a rectangle in the center that takes up three-fourths of the available space. Paint your new color inside that panel, and revel in the change.”

Myles said it’s also a great option for renters who might be leery of the landlord’s reaction.

“Renters should absolutely make a space their ‘own,’ even if they don’t own it,” she said. “Millions of people (including me) rent, and our homes

are no less ‘ours’ because we don’t pay a mortgage. We live our lives, love our families, follow our dreams—all while inhabiting our spaces.”

And Myles doesn’t want the feeling of a rental not bringing the warmth a true home.

“We renters must unite and create spaces that are unapologetically our own, because life is too short for anything less,” she said.

Living this type of “mortgage-free lifestyle” is a common topic for Myles.

“The ‘American Dream’ used to mean that most of us would ‘pair off, purchase and propagate,’ in that order,” Myles said. “But, these days, many of us—from millennials to retirees—are looking around and realizing that we aren’t too keen on being tied to one place with a 30-year fiscal commitment to boot. The mortgage-free lifestyle is about mobility, freedom and choice in a rapidly changing world.”

Myles said renting is a “viable, empowering lifestyle option,” and she likes the flexibility it allocates. Flexibility, she said, should extend to the place you call home, no matter if you own or rent.

“Let go of fear—really,” she advised. “If you are paying someone monthly for the right to live in a space, then guess what? You’re HOME. Make it yours—commit to the space even if that means you start out small.”

Myles suggested using removable wallpaper instead of painting, as tempaper is not only easy to install and remove, but it also comes in appealing patterns, as well. And, she added, making even just a hallway look better is “empowering.”

“Once you take that small step, you’ll be amazed by the difference it makes in how you feel about your home,” she said. “Just claiming one small part in a way that is uniquely ‘you’ will open you up to the possibilities for the rest of your home. I promise—you’ll wonder why you ever waited!”

Myles, who is currently in the middle of filming her fourth season of Home Made Simple, said her own apartment will be featured on the show Apartment Therapy, further showing viewers that she “walks the walk” in her daily living.

“It’s just super exciting to be allowed to spread the gospel of great design and show that it doesn’t have to stressful or expensive, but that you can do small things to create spaces that lift you up,” Myles said.

by

Sonya Visor

www.sonyavisor.com

Available on: and

q2 2014 | hope 47

Have you ever said you were alright, but you really weren't?

home | Kitchen

Home Transitioning from Summer to Fall

with Kim Myles by ch r i s b av en d er

Learning to be you can take form in every aspect of your life—even in your home décor.

As the summer weather starts to give way to fall’s crisp air, many of us turn our thoughts to changes in our homes. Whether it’s new throw pillows or fresh paint in the bedroom, even small changes can make big differences When it comes to emerging trends for fall colors, decorator Kim Myles— who hosts Home Made Simple on OWN—said you should delete the word “trend” from your vocabulary.

“I’m the wrong woman to ask about trends—I don’t believe in them at all,” Myles said. “I gave up on fashion trends in favor of what works for my body and life, and the same should be true of home décor.”

Myles recommends concentrating more on texture than color in trying to bring about an autumn feel. For instance, using velvet or canvas in place of light, linen curtains is a good starting transition.

“Basically, you want to create a feeling of warmth and coziness in 46 hope | q3 2014

preparation for the change in season,” she said. “Add a vase of branches filled with colorful fall leaves to your entry or mantle for an instant reminder of crisp days to come.”

If incorporating new colors into your home can seem “daunting,” Myles suggests working “bite-sized.”

“If you’re ready to try a new, bold color palette, start with throw pillows,” she said. “They’re inexpensive and easy to switch out in case you don’t end up loving the new hue. If you’re ready to dip your whole leg in versus your toe, then go for a painted panel. Pick a focal wall—in the entryway or behind the sofa, bed or dining table—and mask out a rectangle in the center that takes up three-fourths of the available space. Paint your new color inside that panel, and revel in the change.”

Myles said it’s also a great option for renters who might be leery of the landlord’s reaction.

“Renters should absolutely make a space their ‘own,’ even if they don’t own it,” she said. “Millions of people (including me) rent, and our homes

are no less ‘ours’ because we don’t pay a mortgage. We live our lives, love our families, follow our dreams—all while inhabiting our spaces.”

And Myles doesn’t want the feeling of a rental not bringing the warmth a true home.

“We renters must unite and create spaces that are unapologetically our own, because life is too short for anything less,” she said.

Living this type of “mortgage-free lifestyle” is a common topic for Myles.

“The ‘American Dream’ used to mean that most of us would ‘pair off, purchase and propagate,’ in that order,” Myles said. “But, these days, many of us—from millennials to retirees—are looking around and realizing that we aren’t too keen on being tied to one place with a 30-year fiscal commitment to boot. The mortgage-free lifestyle is about mobility, freedom and choice in a rapidly changing world.”

Myles said renting is a “viable, empowering lifestyle option,” and she likes the flexibility it allocates. Flexibility, she said, should extend to the place you call home, no matter if you own or rent.

“Let go of fear—really,” she advised. “If you are paying someone monthly for the right to live in a space, then guess what? You’re HOME. Make it yours—commit to the space even if that means you start out small.”

Myles suggested using removable wallpaper instead of painting, as tempaper is not only easy to install and remove, but it also comes in appealing patterns, as well. And, she added, making even just a hallway look better is “empowering.”

“Once you take that small step, you’ll be amazed by the difference it makes in how you feel about your home,” she said. “Just claiming one small part in a way that is uniquely ‘you’ will open you up to the possibilities for the rest of your home. I promise—you’ll wonder why you ever waited!”

Myles, who is currently in the middle of filming her fourth season of Home Made Simple, said her own apartment will be featured on the show Apartment Therapy, further showing viewers that she “walks the walk” in her daily living.

“It’s just super exciting to be allowed to spread the gospel of great design and show that it doesn’t have to stressful or expensive, but that you can do small things to create spaces that lift you up,” Myles said.

by

Sonya Visor

www.sonyavisor.com

Available on: and

q2 2014 | hope 47

new release from new york t i me s

bestselling author

franCine

riVerS beloved author of Redeeming Love

inspire | happiness

Let the focus be on pursuing Jesus and accepting His grace

When I lost my job at the beginning of 2013, I didn’t think I’d ever feel capable again. It was a year filled with words like fear, worry, anxiety, doubt, and sadness. After years of striving, climbing the corporate ladder, and doing whatever it took to earn the fancy title for my business card, moving from a cubicle to an office, God closed the door.

HC: 978-1-4143-6818-4 $25.99

If I can be honest with myself, and you, He’d been asking me to walk away from that particular “door” for a while, and I’d been too afraid to make the move into the unknown. Striving and considering myself fully capable were much easier than dipping a toe into the waters of something new.

It was in that season of the unknown that God revealed His grace and provision over my life in a way that I’d never experienced before, because my “I can do it on my own” left little room for dependence on Jesus. He did provide—in big ways with friends who trusted me with their work and their time, and in little ways with small gifts of coffee and kind words. But He was also firm with me when I asked Him if I was truly capable of doing any of this work—He said, “No. But I am.”

A tale of temptation, grace, and unconditional love set in the glitz and glamour of golden age Hollywood.

Available at your local bookstore or online.

FrancineRivers.com TYNDALE and Tyndale’s quill logo are registered trademarks of Tyndale House Publishers, Inc. Author photo by Elaina Burdo copyright © 2014. All rights reserved.

46 hope | winter 2014

chill

by crys ta l s t i n e

Life is often full of unexpected twists and turns—but God can use those moments to teach us how to depend on Him completely.

In 2014, I chose the word “capable” to remind me that I’m not, but God is. It was the word that has given me the courage to start something new, fully dependent on God and His grace. I would rather lean on Jesus than go back to a weary life of striving. Now that we’re past the halfway point of the year, “capable” is still very much my word of the year. But it has taken on a new shape, and that word now looks more like grace: • Grace for the days I mess it all up.

• Grace for the days when I don’t have enough in me to pour out one more piece of encouragement for my family after giving it all online.

• Grace for the days I forget that I’m not the one who is capable.

• Grace for this sinner who puts herself first instead of loving her sisters.

• Grace upon grace.

Sometimes a word-girl like myself just needs a little reminder of the gift God has given her. Hung on a wall, sitting on my desk, spelling it out in beautiful design when I forget. Grace. Words matter, and the Word matters.

Today I’m choosing to say “no” to myself and “yes” to Jesus —because He is capable.

Crystal is passionate about living authentically in the beautiful, messy, unfinished parts of life. She encourages women daily as the editorial and marketing manager at (in)courage and through her writing at crystalstine.me. You can connect with her on Twitter and Instagram at @crystalstine.

out!

The Best Ways to

Take a walk Read a book Listen to nature Get some sunlight Journal your thoughts Turn off your cell phone

He made himself an island until something unexpected washed ashore.

by m a r i ta l k i n n e y

Time is valuable, and it’s important that some of your time brings you peace, because you are valuable, too.

Everyday life can become overwhelming, and the need to relax becomes apparent.

The problem remains in the way you chose to take a break from your hectic schedule. Whenever people are stressed out, attitudes and irritably follow—and no one enjoys being around a cranky person. If you find yourself becoming angry with anyone and everyone, chances are you may need to take a chill pill. Taking a vacation seems to be the easiest solution; however, planning for a vacation can end up contributing to even more stress. So what is the best way to chill? First ask yourself these questions: • Would you enjoy being around you?

• Do you over commit?

• Are you easily frustrated?

• How often do you get alone time?

• Are you mean to those around you?

• Do you find yourself complaining often?

• Is it hard for you to relax?

• Do you cope with life instead of living it to the fullest?

If you’re easily irritated, you are not alone, as stress can cause people to become unkind. The key is for you to find balance in your life. Most of us work but forget how to relax. By doing so, we tend to take out our frustrations on the people closest to us. The solution is you. Your body is telling you to relax and regroup.

The best way to chill isn’t in planning long vacations or traveling miles away or spending a large amount of money. I know what you may be thinking: How is that so? Well, don’t get me wrong—I love vacations, traveling, and shopping, but all of those activities can leave you feeling exhausted. It doesn’t take much planning to relax. Actually, it’s encouraged to relax regularly instead of taking an annual vacation. Here are some simple ways to find peace in your everyday life: • • • • • •

A New Novel from Award Winning author Gina Holmes

• • • • • •

Take a break from social media Take a nap Laugh Get a massage Prioritize your daily tasks Create an oasis at home

There are many ways to relax. However, none of them matter if you don’t make the time to do them. Prioritizing your day is essential, and it starts with you. It’s common to put yourself last, but neglecting yourself should never been an option.

After finding time to rest, you will have the energy to become more productive and creative. Doing too much at once will limit your ability, preventing you from reaching your greatest potential. We all get 24 hours in a day, but how you use it is up to you. Life is busy and can leave you feeling burnt out. Who said that you have to wait for a vacation? You can create your own oasis at home. Everyone should have that one special spot where you can breathe and let go of the issues of the day. Your happiness is in the way you value your life. Treat yourself well, and give yourself a break.

ISBN 978 -1 - 4143 - 6642 - 5

inspire | Open My Eyes

hen Holton lost his wife, Adele, in a freak accident, he shut himself off to live a life W of seclusion as an artist of driftwood sculptures.

That is, until twenty-four-year-old Libby knocks on his door, asking for a job and claiming to be a friend of his late wife.

“Holmes creates complex, fully realized characters. . . .

Recommend it to fans of Karen Kingsbury and Kimberla Lawson Roby.” — LibrArY JourNAL on WiNgs of gL Ass Wings of Glass, Crossing Oceans, and other titles by Gina are available at your favorite retailer or at ginaholmes.com TYNDALE and Tyndale’s quill logo are registered trademarks of Tyndale House Publishers, Inc.

new release from new york t i me s

bestselling author

franCine

riVerS beloved author of Redeeming Love

inspire | happiness

Let the focus be on pursuing Jesus and accepting His grace

When I lost my job at the beginning of 2013, I didn’t think I’d ever feel capable again. It was a year filled with words like fear, worry, anxiety, doubt, and sadness. After years of striving, climbing the corporate ladder, and doing whatever it took to earn the fancy title for my business card, moving from a cubicle to an office, God closed the door.

HC: 978-1-4143-6818-4 $25.99

If I can be honest with myself, and you, He’d been asking me to walk away from that particular “door” for a while, and I’d been too afraid to make the move into the unknown. Striving and considering myself fully capable were much easier than dipping a toe into the waters of something new.

It was in that season of the unknown that God revealed His grace and provision over my life in a way that I’d never experienced before, because my “I can do it on my own” left little room for dependence on Jesus. He did provide—in big ways with friends who trusted me with their work and their time, and in little ways with small gifts of coffee and kind words. But He was also firm with me when I asked Him if I was truly capable of doing any of this work—He said, “No. But I am.”

A tale of temptation, grace, and unconditional love set in the glitz and glamour of golden age Hollywood.

Available at your local bookstore or online.

FrancineRivers.com TYNDALE and Tyndale’s quill logo are registered trademarks of Tyndale House Publishers, Inc. Author photo by Elaina Burdo copyright © 2014. All rights reserved.

46 hope | winter 2014

chill

by crys ta l s t i n e

Life is often full of unexpected twists and turns—but God can use those moments to teach us how to depend on Him completely.

In 2014, I chose the word “capable” to remind me that I’m not, but God is. It was the word that has given me the courage to start something new, fully dependent on God and His grace. I would rather lean on Jesus than go back to a weary life of striving. Now that we’re past the halfway point of the year, “capable” is still very much my word of the year. But it has taken on a new shape, and that word now looks more like grace: • Grace for the days I mess it all up.

• Grace for the days when I don’t have enough in me to pour out one more piece of encouragement for my family after giving it all online.

• Grace for the days I forget that I’m not the one who is capable.

• Grace for this sinner who puts herself first instead of loving her sisters.

• Grace upon grace.

Sometimes a word-girl like myself just needs a little reminder of the gift God has given her. Hung on a wall, sitting on my desk, spelling it out in beautiful design when I forget. Grace. Words matter, and the Word matters.

Today I’m choosing to say “no” to myself and “yes” to Jesus —because He is capable.

Crystal is passionate about living authentically in the beautiful, messy, unfinished parts of life. She encourages women daily as the editorial and marketing manager at (in)courage and through her writing at crystalstine.me. You can connect with her on Twitter and Instagram at @crystalstine.

out!

The Best Ways to

Take a walk Read a book Listen to nature Get some sunlight Journal your thoughts Turn off your cell phone

He made himself an island until something unexpected washed ashore.

by m a r i ta l k i n n e y

Time is valuable, and it’s important that some of your time brings you peace, because you are valuable, too.

Everyday life can become overwhelming, and the need to relax becomes apparent.

The problem remains in the way you chose to take a break from your hectic schedule. Whenever people are stressed out, attitudes and irritably follow—and no one enjoys being around a cranky person. If you find yourself becoming angry with anyone and everyone, chances are you may need to take a chill pill. Taking a vacation seems to be the easiest solution; however, planning for a vacation can end up contributing to even more stress. So what is the best way to chill? First ask yourself these questions: • Would you enjoy being around you?

• Do you over commit?

• Are you easily frustrated?

• How often do you get alone time?

• Are you mean to those around you?

• Do you find yourself complaining often?

• Is it hard for you to relax?

• Do you cope with life instead of living it to the fullest?

If you’re easily irritated, you are not alone, as stress can cause people to become unkind. The key is for you to find balance in your life. Most of us work but forget how to relax. By doing so, we tend to take out our frustrations on the people closest to us. The solution is you. Your body is telling you to relax and regroup.

The best way to chill isn’t in planning long vacations or traveling miles away or spending a large amount of money. I know what you may be thinking: How is that so? Well, don’t get me wrong—I love vacations, traveling, and shopping, but all of those activities can leave you feeling exhausted. It doesn’t take much planning to relax. Actually, it’s encouraged to relax regularly instead of taking an annual vacation. Here are some simple ways to find peace in your everyday life: • • • • • •

A New Novel from Award Winning author Gina Holmes

• • • • • •

Take a break from social media Take a nap Laugh Get a massage Prioritize your daily tasks Create an oasis at home

There are many ways to relax. However, none of them matter if you don’t make the time to do them. Prioritizing your day is essential, and it starts with you. It’s common to put yourself last, but neglecting yourself should never been an option.

After finding time to rest, you will have the energy to become more productive and creative. Doing too much at once will limit your ability, preventing you from reaching your greatest potential. We all get 24 hours in a day, but how you use it is up to you. Life is busy and can leave you feeling burnt out. Who said that you have to wait for a vacation? You can create your own oasis at home. Everyone should have that one special spot where you can breathe and let go of the issues of the day. Your happiness is in the way you value your life. Treat yourself well, and give yourself a break.

ISBN 978 -1 - 4143 - 6642 - 5

inspire | Open My Eyes

hen Holton lost his wife, Adele, in a freak accident, he shut himself off to live a life W of seclusion as an artist of driftwood sculptures.

That is, until twenty-four-year-old Libby knocks on his door, asking for a job and claiming to be a friend of his late wife.

“Holmes creates complex, fully realized characters. . . .

Recommend it to fans of Karen Kingsbury and Kimberla Lawson Roby.” — LibrArY JourNAL on WiNgs of gL Ass Wings of Glass, Crossing Oceans, and other titles by Gina are available at your favorite retailer or at ginaholmes.com TYNDALE and Tyndale’s quill logo are registered trademarks of Tyndale House Publishers, Inc.

Listen closely. . .

Jesus

is speaking to your

HEART Envelop your soul in the comforting words of the Savior. He longs for you to hear His special message. . .if you’ll only open your heart, you’ll find: Jesus Speaks When You Are Overwhelmed Jesus Speaks When Your Heart Is Full of Joy Jesus Speaks When You Feel Lonely Jesus Speaks When You Are Hurting

Print and eBook Editions Available Wherever Books Are Sold!

Jesus speaks to your heart. . .every day and in every situation. Listen for His still, small voice, as you ponder these two hundred inspiring readings that are deeply rooted in scripture and written from a heavenly perspective. You’ll come away feeling perfectly loved and blessed!

“We were NEVER MEANT TO WALK THIS ROAD ALONE. If you are struggling in any way, THIS BOOK WAS WRITTEN FOR YOU.” -Liana Laverentz, author of Living on a Prayer, Living with PMDD