July 2011 Metro Christian Living

Christmas in July The Five Unlove

Languages MISSISSIPPI CRAFT CENTER Peru Paper SALTCompany & LIGHT Art that BuildsCompany the Kingdom Peru Paper

Patriotic Dishes

Art&Soul

TWELVE ARTISTS SHARE THEIR PASSION & FAITH

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contents JULY 2011

metro ®

columns 11 The Way I see it Breath of life

12 Salt & Light Peru Paper – Art that builds the kingdom

16 All in the Family The five unlove languages

20 HomeWorks Creative couponing, Part 2

21 Modern Motherhood To hoard or not to hoard

36 Let’s Talk it Over Comfort my people!

38 The Think Tank What is your unique ability?

feature

40 Family Focus

24

41 Legal Advice

Your vacation, friend or enemy?

Art & Soul

The problem with shortcuts

Twelve Artists Share Their Passion & Faith

43 Education Connection Prep women’s basketball team headed to Guatemala

22

departments 14 Christian Commerce Center Persnickety

18 Fresh Finds

12

Christmas in July

22 Food For Thought Patriotic dishes

33 Healthy Living Fitness boot camp

34 Welcome Home Fancy walls

35 Our Daily Bread

38

16

How do you keep the faith?

39 Living my Call Dr. Sam Gore honors veterans

42 This is my Story The light at the end of the tunnel

44 Rave Reviews Books, movies and music

➺ 6 JULY 2011 ❘ Metro Christian Living

What’s Coming Next Month?

Juanita Sims Doty

in every issue 8 45 46 46

Editor’s Letter Event Calendar Quips & Quotes Ad Directory

Volume 6, Number 2 Publisher: MHS Publications, Inc., Member, M.I.P.A. Editor: Marilyn Tinnin marilyn@metrochristianliving.com Administrative Assistant: Carol Rodgers carol@metrochristianliving.com Art Direction/Graphic Design Sandra K. Goff Graphic Production Assistant Kate Thomas Sales Marilyn Tinnin, Heather May, Jen Sampson Contributing Writers: Wayne Barber, Lydia Bolen, Dr. John L. Cox, Julia Daily, Susan Deaver, Brenda Gail Foster, Cathy Haynie, William B. Howell, Robin O’Bryant, Aubrey Prince, Susan E. Richardson, Kate Thomas, Tammy Thomas, Martin Willoughby, Andy Wimberly Cover Art Kate Thomas Distribution Assistants: Laura Blackledge, Kim Roberts, Carol Rodgers, Rachel Schulte, Jerri Strickland, Priscilla Sullivan, Tim Waldon, Bob Whatley

Metro Christian Living is committed to encouraging individuals in their daily lives by presenting the faith stories of others and by providing information that will point every person, at every stage of life, to a deeper, authentic, personal, and life changing encounter with Jesus Christ. Views expressed in Metro Christian Living do not necessarily represent those of the publisher. Every effort has been made by the Metro Christian Living staff to insure accuracy of the publication contents. However, we do not guarantee the accuracy of all information nor the absence of errors and omissions; hence, no responsibility can be or is assumed. All Rights Reserved.

Copyright 2008 by Metro Christian Living, Inc. Scripture taken from the Holy Bible, New International Version, copyright 1973, 1978, 1984 by International Bible Society. Used by permission of International Bible Society.

Metro Christian Living is published monthly and is available at high traffic locations throughout the metropolitan area. Copies are also available by subscription, $29 for one year.

Single issues available for $3 an issue.

POSTMASTER: Send change of address to Metro Christian Living, 573 Highway 51 North, Suite C, Ridgeland, MS 39157, phone number 601-790-9076.

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➺editor’s letter Arts, Hearts, and Callings For with you is the Fountain of Life In your light do we see light. – Psalm 36:9

I

Lord of beauty, thine ❝ the splendor shown in earth and sky and sea, burning sun and moonlight tender, hill and river, flower and tree: lest we fail our praise to render touch our eyes that they may see.

❞

– Cyril A. Alington

8 JULY 2011 ❘ Metro Christian Living

suppose I was in the first wave of preschoolers who tuned in on a daily basis to Captain Kangaroo—and if you don’t know who Captain Kangaroo is, keep it to yourself. My favorite segment of his show was the moment he pulled out the scissors, paste, construction paper and crayons and led the viewer through a creative process to some finished masterpiece. I transformed many an oatmeal carton or shoebox into a treasure.

While I explored my creativity with the Captain, my friends attended kindergarten. My mother refused to send me saying she thought it would stifle my creativity and she didn’t think my social skills needed enhancing. Unfortunately, my artistic skills did not advance much beyond Captain Kangaroo. I made a “C” on a first grade drawing. It crushed me, and I gave up any childhood artistic dreams when the Robin I drew was mistaken for a gorilla wearing an orange vest.

Even so, I have always been drawn to beautiful art. Art, like music, is a language that communicates without words. It almost seeps into our hearts and souls leaving something permanent there. Creating art and enjoying art...two of the most life-giving pursuits on this earth as well as an intimate connection with our Creator who gives us “soul eyes” to see and discerning hearts to grasp His imprint in the subject depicted on canvas, in clay, or captured by a skilled photographer.

In the interviews with this month’s featured artists, I realized they shared in common a sense of being “called” to artistic endeavor. No matter what their individual journeys, they each have moments and seasons when it would be impossible NOT to create. Such an intense drive is, to them, an act of obedience in reply to God’s prompting. I loved their individual thoughts and their willingness to be so open with us. I doubt you can read anyone’s frank answers without sensing an ongoing dialogue with the One who gave each a special artistic gift.

The “Art and Soul” theme continues in our Salt and Light feature on the Peru Paper Company, an entrepreneurial endeavor that grew out of a craft project Grace Bateman Green thought would be a onetime activity. She was working with a ladies church group during a summer mission trip when God gave her a unique idea. Don’t you love the way God surprises us by opening doors we did not even know were there and then allows us to be vessels He uses?

Dr. Samuel Gore, the beloved artist, sculptor, and head of the Mississippi College art department for 59 years, shares his latest creation with us and how appropriate it is for our July issue. A veteran’s memorial bronze casting for the Clinton Visitor’s Center won’t be complete until 2012, but the half finished masterpiece will already touch every patriotic fiber of your being.

Tammy Thomas, my new fitness friend, writes the first of two articles on the popular trend called “Boot Camp.” As one of her more challenging students, let me testify that it works and that she has more patience than Job himself.

There are some months I would compare the magazine to a suitcase so full that it will barely close. Such is the case with July’s issue. It gives me great pleasure to invite you to read cover to cover! From recipes to advice to inspiration—there is something within these pages to brighten your day and give you reason to find joy in your journey.

Happy July. Y Marilyn H. Tinnin, Publisher and Editor marilyn@metrochristianliving.com

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➺

the way i see it

BREATH OF LIFE distinctively remember being a new parent and bringing my first child home from the hospital. What an incredible feeling! I was both excited and terrified. This little person was my responsibility. I can’t count how many times in those early years that I would put my hand on her chest and make sure she was still breathing. Sure, it was paranoia, but bad things can happen. I had heard scary stories of infants suddenly stopping breathing. No book can really prepare you for that feeling when you need reassurance that your precious child is alive and well.

Most of us don’t think much about our breathing. The average person takes about 15 breaths a minute or 21,600 breaths a day. We do it unconsciously. This life-giving process goes on from our first gasp of air as a newborn until our dying breath. In the Bible, the word ruach is used to describe wind, breath, and spirit. As it relates to God, this term is used to describe the Spirit of God (Gen. 1:2, Job 33:4). As it relates to people, we see in Ezekiel 37:5, that, “This is what the Sovereign Lord says to these bones: I will make breath enter you and you will come to life.” Similarly, Job described to his friends “the breath of God” in his nostrils (Job 27:3).

For me, one of the challenges of a life of faith is the invisible nature of it. We serve an invisible God. The Holy Spirit is a mysterious aspect of the Trinity that is formless and shapeless. I can see how ancient people fell into building statutes and idols to worship.

They were searching for the invisible God and fell into idolatry. Today, we don’t build many golden calves, but we do have plenty of potential distracting idols for our hearts whether it’s materialism, money, etc. It is easy for us to feel disconnected from the divine. In our daily life we eat, we sleep, we work— maybe play a little. Sometimes life can feel like the film Groundhog Day in which star Bill Murray repeats the same day over and over.

Even though much of life may be routine, we can experience the divine in our daily lives.

As followers of Christ, we have the Spirit of God in us (John 14:16-17). We are reborn in

I

Christ of the Spirit (John 3:3-8). There is great assurance in this. However, we can become disconnected from these truths. We can go through the motions of life. We may be “saved”, but we may not be living to our full potential as adopted sons and daughters of Christ. Are we truly living as if our bodies are God’s temple (1 Cor. 3:16)? Are we living bold lives of faith because we are empowered through the Holy Spirit (Ephesians 3:20)?

In the midst of our busy daily schedules, we often don’t make the time to be still in the presence of God. I believe that the evil one likes to keep us overly busy and distracted.

Perhaps, we can start to be still more and reflect on the Spirit of God which is in us. In those moments of stillness, maybe we can listen to the quiet sound of our breathing and reflect on God who gives us life and hope.

While we each have breath in us, hopefully we will not waste our days, but live in the promise and joy of our salvation. Y Martin E. Willoughby, Jr. is Chief Operating Officer of Butler Snow Advisory Services, LLC located in Ridgeland. He and his wife Nicki have two children, Ally and Trey, and live in Madison. metrochristianliving.com ❘ JULY 2011 11

➺salt & light

by MARILYN TINNIN

Art that Builds the Kingdom hen Grace Bateman Greene was a very little girl, she happened to view a World Vision documentary on poverty and hunger in third world countries. “God really laid it on my heart even then to do what I could to alleviate poverty,” she says.

Throughout her childhood she dreamed of being a missionary, and she took her first mission trip to Peru while still in high school.

She fell in love with the Peruvian people and was profoundly moved by the creativity and work ethic of the women who struggled to provide for their families in a culture with few opportunities.

Grace completed her undergraduate degree in Social Work and Spanish from Mississippi College in 2004 Her first job after graduation was a summer stint teaching English with Peru Mission. While there she met a British missionary who had begun a project with the Peruvian women teaching them to make recycled paper and create stationery that could be sold. Grace was eager to learn the skill.

With her initial investment of her own $100, Grace purchased supplies and taught a group of ladies she was working with how to make the paper, design greeting cards and package them. The first 100 cards sold quickly and the ladies were so thrilled with what they had accomplished that they begged Grace to let them do more.

From that initial craft project Peru Paper was born and has grown “organically,” as Grace puts it. She returned to the United States with samples, showed them to friends and got great feedback. In October,

W

12 JULY 2011 ❘ Metro Christian Living

2009, she opened the web-store on line, and by 2010 she began to ship wholesale to numerous stores across the country. At the present time, Peru Paper can be purchased in fifteen states and in the District of Columbia, Australia, and Canada. It seems that everywhere Grace takes it, it sells itself.

At the present time, Grace has enlisted the help of a Peruvian businessman who helps with the Peruvian side of the business. There are fifteen full time employees who produce the cards. This small business enables these women to make a living and to do it from their homes while being with their children. The ladies are independent contractors and Grace purchases their wares on a piece by piece basis.

Grace never dreamed the opportunities this entrepreneurial step of faith would bring her way. Her first goal was to make life better for the Peruvian women, but the ripples in the pond have gone farther than she ever imagined. As she travels to markets and craft shows, the paper is always a conversation starter that opens a door to the gospel right in the midst of the secular world.

Go to www.perupaper.com and learn more. Grace is a frequent speaker for church groups and civic clubs. Y

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➺christian commerce corner

by MARILYN TINNIN

and debutantes. I’m from Morton, a hill country town of pine timber and chicks of a different type. She is a combination of beauty, grace, and “cool”. I’m a nerd, as both of our children freely and convincingly affirm.

I told Randy I loved her on the second date, and asked her to marry me on the third. Though all who knew me were surprised that she would, I was more surprised than anyone. We were married 10 months after we met, and will celebrate our 40th anniversary this month.

Our daughter, Ali Dinkins, was born a couple of years later. Our son, B.C. Rogers III, was born some 3 years after Ali. They are the greatest blessing God has given us, and added to that are their spouses. Some men complain and gripe about their kids choices in marriage. I could not love my son-in-law, John Dinkins, or my daughter-in-law, Kim Jensen Rogers, more. They are blessings on blessings.

Kim and B.C. have been married for 16 months, with no children as of yet. Yes, I have to admit there has been some subtle encouragement from the in-laws on both sides. But God knows when that should happen. Ali and John, in expression of a strong alternate position, have 4 children: Bonner (Bo), McNeil (Bull), Coleman (Cole), and Weathersby (Webbie). They know very well that Grandy and Papa love them. Blessings on blessings.

When did you get into retail and why the specific niche you chose?

Interview with Ben Rogers, owner of Persnickety Tell me a little about your background (hometown, college, and family).

Except for a short time after college and marriage, I’ve lived in the same block in Morton all my life. I can’t imagine anyone having a more loving and nurturing childhood. I don’t remember ever being disappointed by my parents, nor a time when they did not deserve my respect – which was not an option regardless.

I joined the First Baptist Church of Morton when I was 7, and became saved by grace through faith alone in Christ alone when I was 13.

I graduated from Morton High School (1965), and from Mississippi College with a BS in economics (1969). I enlisted in the Mississippi National Guard shortly after graduation, and transferred to the Army Reserve in 1970.

Randy and I were married in 1971. She was an Ole Miss Rebel and in the Delta Delta Delta sorority. I was an MC Choctaw when there could be no parties on campus (except punch and cake), much less social fraternities. She’s from Greenwood, a Delta city of cotton 14 JULY 2011 ❘ Metro Christian Living

We’ve been in retail for some 11 years. But I’m afraid you’ve made an incorrect assumption: “chose.” I guess it would be nice to talk about how we formulated this grand strategic plan to pursue the unfulfilled demand in the retail environment of central Mississippi.

But unfortunately, that’s not the way it happened. There were no formal business plans, goals, or even expectations. You see, we were in the LP gas business and peddled a few grills and gas logs occasionally. We also had a hardware store. Some other folks, probably with strategic plans for their businesses, were growing their hardware sales faster than we were. You may have heard of them: Walmart, Home Depot, Lowe’s? We were in the wrong league. So we closed the hardware store and had an empty building. So we moved in a few grills and fireplaces. Then we thought: if someone wants some gas logs they might buy a mantle, and if they buy a mantle they might buy a picture for over the mantle and some candlesticks to put on the mantle, and if they like their gas logs, they might want to buy a chair to sit in front of the fire place, and if they were sitting on the chair in front of the fire place they might buy a rug… So there you have it. That was our grand plan. Those who claim to know what they are doing in business call it cross-selling.

At some point along this chain of related items fell appliances. So we became Viking dealers, and then Wolf-SubZero dealers, and then many others. During this time of growth, not to be confused with our current economic environment, we were presented the opportunity to expand to the Madison market with the purchase of Persnickety. Seemed like the thing to do, so we accepted. Then we were presented the opportunity to expand our appliance sales to a store devoted primarily to that alone. Persnickety Kitchens opened in the worst of times: October of 2009. In spite of our lack of strategic acumen, all is well. There are a couple of good reasons for this. First, we have a tremendous staff of dedicated and devoted people. We

love them like family. Other than the staff, God deserves the credit.

We would not, and could not, have been here without Him. He knows we know this, and we know He knows this.

Looking back on our relatively short history in retail, it seems that it all just happened. The way it all happened, we believe God did it.

We were not smart enough to do all that has been done. So many things fell into place that we didn’t even know we needed. We were not aggressive enough to pursue our wonderful and qualified staff, all of whom approached us wanting to help us out. I’m not saying we’re totally dumb or lazy, but we honestly don’t deserve any accolades for all that has happened and the people that continue to make it happen. Blessings on blessings.

What are your keys to a successful business?

Matthew 6:33 – But seek first his kingdom and his righteousness, and all these things will be given to you as well. (NIV) Luke 10:27 – He answered, “Love the Lord your God with all your heart and with all your soul and with all your strength and with all your mind’ and, ‘Love your neighbor as yourself.’” (NIV)

How do you employ your Christian faith in the workplace?

The two verses above have no exclusion for the “workplace” of our lives. It seems to be at best unfaithful, and probably rebellious to God, to seek the knowledge of God’s word for the purpose of applying it to only some areas of our lives. It also seems inconsistent for us to exercise an unconditional and impersonal love for our fellow man in one area of our life and not in all areas of our lives.

Our workplace should only be a technical term to refer to that part of our lives in which we work, but not used to isolate that area into a place with different standards, a different focus, and different mental attitudes. Since we are interacting with people while in the workplace; the responsibilities we have related to our fellow man in every other area of our life are also true of our place of work.

Further, our responsibilities to God are certainly not abrogated while we are at work. The standards for all areas in life are the same because the focus is the same: the person of our Lord Jesus Christ.

Those standards are for the believer in Jesus Christ to be oriented to the character and will of God, resulting in a mental attitude of humility and service. Y

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➺all in the family

by DR JOHN L. COX

The Five

UNLOVE LANGUAGES

Y

You know that book that everybody read a few years back, The Five Love Languages? It helped married people learn to communicate better by identifying the “language” in which they and their spouse best experienced love. Maybe it’s acts of service that make you smile. Maybe it’s words of encouragement. (And of course, you married someone with a DIFFERENT love language than yours. In fact, you probably married someone who desperately needs the ONE love language you find hardest to speak!)

Well, what about the “unlove” languages? What are the ways we speak that communicate love the WORST! Though most people differ in their love language, almost everyone commonly shares the “unlove” languages, and nobody has a favorite….they all stink! Let’s look at the ways we can be the most unloving in our language in our relationships.

SHAME Our first way to really communicate unloving things to someone is to shame them. Shame says, “I want to scorn you and make you feel really bad for being fallen, and, of course, I would never act the way YOU do.”

Of course, it’s legit to be a truth teller, calling out someone for their hurtful or irresponsible behavior, but I like to recommend that people do that in a “Just the facts, Ma’am” manner. “I experience you doing xyz, and that is hurtful to me.” Or – “I’m not sure you realize it, but you keep doing abc and that really pushes me away from you.” Those are factual statements that confront someone with hurtful choices, not shaming statements that parade their “badness” for all to see.

people say that someone in their lives has done something that “deserves” anger. Well, certainly it is legitimate to FEEL angry at painful things, but we are called upon to “Be angry but sin not.” What that means is that we can communicate our feelings (“I’ve got to let you know that that made me feel SO angry,”) but we need to set limits on the parts of us that want to be hurtful and demeaning to others with our anger.

VICTIMHOOD This is a more subtle kind of unlove language. Victimhood is when we respond to a painful situation by being pitiful and “wounded.” Instead of being strong and facing conflict with someone, we go passive and make it very clear that we have been mistreated. This is unloving because it doesn’t take responsibility for helping resolve the problem. It just throws it back on the “perp” and forces them to take all the responsibility to repair things. If your loved one likes to play the victim, (and you have any codependent tendencies) you will easily be sucked into this ploy and find yourself falling all over yourself to try and make them feel all better again. This is the last thing they need. Instead, invite them to talk to you about the problem. Until then, communicate that you are willing to wait.

SARCASM

HURTFUL ANGER

Our final unlove language is sarcasm (there are plenty more, but five seemed like a good number to start with). Sarcasm is another form of indirectness in dealing with conflict. Instead of confronting the person in a straightforward way, sarcasm appears to let an injury go, but them brings it up, booby-trap style, later on. You hear about another conflict someone has and say something like, “Well, I don’t know why they would be upset with YOU….you NEVER do anything wrong!” Or we make snide comments like, “Be sure and forget the things on my shopping list, like you always do.” If someone barbs you with sarcasm, simply ask them a direct question, “Are you angry with me about forgetting your shopping list in the past?” Now they have to actually own it, or decide to let it go.

We are all sinners, and we need no training in relating poorly, but use this list is to help you find the ways you may be relating in an unloving way to those around you. Y

There is a difference between communicating that you are angry and “acting angrily.” Hurtful anger is when we DO our anger to someone…when we “Let ‘em have it” emotionally. Lots of times, hurtful anger involves shaming and attacking someone else. I sometimes hear

Dr. John L. Cox is a clinical psychologist in private practice in Jackson. He also serves as the Visiting Director of Spiritual Development at Intown Presbyterian Church in Atlanta, Georgia.

To contact Dr. Cox, please call 601-352-7398.

WITHDRAWAL Another way to be unloving is to disappear. Lots of people respond to difficulties in their relationships by sending the message that “If you are going to act that way, I don’t like you anymore and am going to disconnect from you.” Certainly it is acceptable to call for a “time out” from someone if they are being hurtful, but withdrawal has a bite to it. It says, “I’m going to punish you for your wrongdoing by depriving you in the worst way…you will be deprived of Moi! (No. Please, anything but that!) Withdrawal is a kind of game playing. It is manipulative. Instead, I encourage folks to be honest and forthright if there is a problem and to make themselves available for working it out.

16 JULY 2011 ❘ Metro Christian Living

INDIVIDUAL Trauma Abuse Self-esteem

Attachment Issues Personality Disorders Identity

MARRIAGE Intimacy Enrichment Adultery Grown Apart

Divorce Recovery Communication Lack of Understanding Knowing Each Other

FAMILY Boundaries Listening Conflict

Children Issues Understanding Expressing

JANIE’S CREDENTIALS M.A., M.F.T., M.Div., EDMR Trained, Hypnosis Training Clinical Member of Marriage & Family Counseling Twenty Years of Christian Counseling

solving problems building relationships growing stronger

Set up an Appointment or Inquiry

jppillow@aol.com (Email) 601.829.9644 (Phone)

HE A LT HC A R E f o r w o m e n b y w o m e n.

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metrochristianliving.com ❘ JULY 2011 17

➺fresh finds

by JULIA DAILY

Christmas in July at the

Mississippi Craft Center isitors from all over the world descend upon the Mississippi Craft Center during the summer travel months. Join them as the Christmas in July Celebration kicks off as soon as the 4th of July Celebration is completed. An Old-Fashioned 4th of July Celebration takes place at the Center on Saturday, July 2nd, from 10:00 a.m. - 4:00 p.m. No charge to the general public.

Hamburgers will be available for purchase from 11:00 a.m.

- 2:00 p.m. See craft demonstrations and the Mississippi Band of Choctaw Indians will perform traditional dances and stickball practices.

Then, discover why ornaments are not just for the holidays! July 4-31 features holiday creations by the most talented regional artisans. Begin your collections for the holidays while the selection is great! For more details, call 601-856-7546 or visit www.mscrafts.org. Y

V

1

2 3 5 4

1

Basket II

by Marilyn Diehl

Whether you need a basket for holiday cards, magazines or gifts of fruit, displaying anything in this beautifully handcrafted one will delight your family and friends. Created by Marilyn Diehl, Exhibiting Member of the Craftsmen’s Guild of Mississippi, this one and others are on display at the Mississippi Craft Center.

2

Southern Fired Glass Snowman

by Pyllis Tackitt

Baby, it’s HOT outside, so come inside the Mississippi Craft Center and pick up a snowman platter for the holidays. This adorable glass platter was created by Phyllis Tackitt of Southern Fired Glass and is available at the Gallery at the Mississippi Craft Center.

18 JULY 2011 ❘ Metro Christian Living

3

Hark! Rug

by Lisanne Miller

4

Bird ii

by Elizabeth Robinson

5

Fountain Drop Flower

by Donna Davis

Hear the rushing water of the Hark! The heralded angels Hear the flutter of wings! fountain and see the glass sing! What a wonderful way Holiday birds have flown into to incorporate angels into the Mississippi Craft Center. See flowers sparkle in the sunlight.

This handcrafted fountain by your home. This handElizabeth Robinson’s newest hooked rug by Lisanne Miller flock of glass birds. Available at Exhibiting Member of the Craftsmen’s Guild of Mississippi will bring joy into your life. the Mississippi Craft Center See it and others at the Gallery at Fondren Corner or the Donna Davis will be the centerpiece of your backyard.

Mississippi Craft Center.

Mississippi Craft Center.

This unique fountain may be viewed at the Mississippi Craft Center.

Welcomes Dr. Philip L. Chustz • Board certified cardiologist • Jackson native with a medical degree from the University of Mississippi Medical Center

• 970 Lakeland Drive Jackson, MS 39216 of Christ Covenant School is to partner with Christian parents in teaching, training, and equipping their children academically and spiritually so they will be able to love the Lord, to think biblically, and to glorify God in every area of life.

752 Pear Orchard Rd | Ridgeland, MS 39157 www.christcovenantschool.net 601.978.2272

601-982-7850

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“Your Heart is Our Specialty”

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601.352.3632 metrochristianliving.com ❘ JULY 2011 19

➺homeworks

by CATHY HAYNIE

CREATIVE COUPONING ✂ Last month we took a look at the basics of couponing and how your family might save half or more off of groceries and household products. The

key to couponing is not just using a few coupons here and there to save a few dollars but instead, buying items before your family needs them and buying them at a significantly reduced cost. This is accomplished by “stacking” a great store sale with coupons. Last month we covered the 5 basics of couponing and this month we will look at 7 tips to make you more efficient in the process.

1 2

Organize your coupons in a binder that zips closed. Using items like sheet protectors, baseball card

holders, and pocket dividers help you sort and see what you have available.

Make clipping more efficient. If you buy multiple

papers with coupon inserts, take the inserts apart and stack like pages. Staple and cut with a paper cutter. Use a marker to divide a poster into a grid with each section labeled just like your binder sections. This gives you a place to sort cut coupons and easily put them into your binder after clipping.

3

Know coupon policies and how to use coupons at each store you shop, even placing copies for each store in your binder. Policies differ and can be

confusing- not just to you but sometimes to your checker too! Did you know that most stores allow you to match a buy one get one free sale with a buy one get one free coupon making both items free? Most stores also allow you to use a buy one get one free coupon and a second money off coupon on the purchase of the two items. That is extreme couponing!

♥ Volunteers are the heart of hospice

OPPORTUNITIES INCLUDE: ♥ Assisted Living/Nursing Home visits ♥ Professional Volunteers ♥ ♥ ♥

(cosmetology, music, counseling) Pet Therapy using a certified pet Office support Special projects (woodworking, baking cookies, crafts)

If you would like to become our next volunteer, please call Jeffery Myers at

601-503-3077

www.odsyhealth.com 20 JULY 2011 ❘ Metro Christian Living

4

Don’t just scan store flyers, study them, looking at each item to find your best deals.

Use the store’s website to view their weekly ad. Clicking on an item places it on a printable list. After you print the list, mark items with the coupons you will use. This allows you to have a shopping list that details the sale even if it is not marked well in the store. Place a store flyer in your cart for reference as well.

5

Get a rain check if an item is sold out. Cut the info from the store ad and staple it to the rain check to reduce confusion later. The best thing about a rain check is the chance to find more coupons for that item (and many rain checks don’t expire or have quantity limits).

6

Organize your transactions. Pulling coupons ahead of time and placing them in envelopes or a zipper pencil pouch saves you time and makes check out easier. Because drug stores print cash back reward certificates on many items, you will want to do more than one transaction to utilize these rewards and save the most. Organize multiple transactions in separate envelopes with your list on the outside and coupons inside of each envelope.

7

Watch it on YouTube. There are many coupon how-to videos available, even taking you inside specific stores to show you how its done. For example, thekrazycouonlady.com has a video on shopping at Walgreens that shows you how to use envelopes for multiple transactions, and southernsavers.com will take you right into Kroger to show you how to organize with recyclable bags to take advantage of the common “mega event.”

I hope you will learn more about couponing by visiting the Internet and talking to others. If you are interested in hosting a class for a group, contact me at the email address below. Couponing will save you significant money, and you will never run out of toilet paper again! Y Cathy Haynie and her husband Jack have three children and live in Madison. Cathy is the Headmaster of Christ Covenant School in Ridgeland. She occasionally speaks to groups on Honoring God in the Home, Managing the Busy Life, and Balancing Work and Home.

Contact her at chaynie@christcovenantschool.net.

modern motherhood

by ROBIN O’BRYANT

TO HOARD OR NOT TO HOARD Every afternoon I drag my kids and their backpacks out of the car, and we come inside for a snack. As the girls eat, drink and talk with each other I begin the arduous task of going through the piles of paper they bring home. I “Oooo,” and “Ahhh” in all the right places. We talk about how they could have done something better, and I set aside extra special achievements for my husband to look at when he comes home and then I wait.

I wait for the girls to finish their snack, and leave the room before hurrying to the trash can. I dig down underneath whatever refuse lies on top and start stuffing sheets in the trash.

I am a horrible person, I think. What is wrong with me? What type of mother throws away her child’s preschool and kindergarten work? And if I feel guilty about it doesn’t that mean it’s wrong?

I hear footsteps and drop the lid to the trash can, panicked. I hurry back to my perch in the corner of the kitchen and casually lean against the counter as my four-year-old walks into the room eyeing me suspiciously.

“Hey, Emma…what, um, what are you doing?” I ask nervously.

“I’m just frowing my trash away,” she holds up an empty yogurt container.

“Oh, I’ll do that for you!” I snatch her garbage out of her hand and quickly throw it in the trash before she can see in the can.

She eyes me warily as she backs out of the room. I smile widely and wave before collapsing on the counter as the adrenaline wears off. That was close.

I was chopping vegetables for dinner when I heard it.

“MOMMA!” Aubrey, my six-year-old wailed, “Who threw my work away??”

Uh oh.

“Um… I don’t know honey. It must have been an accident.”

Aubrey dug her papers out spilling onion skins onto the floor. “I worked so hard on this Momma! You have to keep it!”

While she stacked her food-stained papers on the counter, I feebly tried to explain to her that I can’t keep everything she brings home. We simply don’t have room for it all.

“Aubrey, if I kept it all we wouldn’t be able to walk through our house.

There would be stacks, and stacks and stacks of papers everywhere. It’s like this show called ‘Hoarders.’ The people on the show don’t throw anything away and their houses are disgusting. There is trash and there are bugs everywhere and they have to have somebody come to their house to clean it out and take away truck loads of garbage just so they can live in it.”

Aubrey’s mouth fell open as I talked.

“And I don’t throw it all away. I keep the extra special stuff you make.”

I said, pulling out a new pink file box full of all the things I couldn’t stand

to see buried under onion peels and carrot shavings. Aubrey and Emma each have a box full of finger-paintings, handprints and pages with their name written clearly for the first time. Sadie, my preschool drop-out, is only two-years-old, but her box holds mementos of her dark and stormy past: disciplinary slips from her preschool for biting.

It has become easier since “the talk” with Aubrey to throw away extraneous paper work she brings home but it wasn’t until my best friend posted on Facebook that I realized I wasn’t alone. Lizzie had had “the talk” with her son and explained to him that unless they wanted to be on “Hoarders” they had to let some things go. Comments poured in, one Greenwood, mother wrote that her son won’t let her throw anything away, “He is so offended if he sees it in the garbage. So I pile it up, save it for after bedtime and walk it all to the alley.”

As it began to dawn on me that I wasn’t alone, my shame begin to lift and I realized I was probably sitting on The Learning Channel’s next hit reality show, “Little People Big Hoarders.” I could see it in my mind.

Houses stacked floor to ceiling with alphabet sheets, finger paintings and popsicle stick jewelry boxes. Nervous parents darting down darkened alleyways digging through trash cans whilst repeatedly looking over their shoulders, praying their children don’t catch them.

I could see myself sitting on a couch, talking directly to the camera, “I don’t know how we ended up here, I’m just glad I’m not alone.” Y Robin O’Bryant is a wife, stay-at-home-mother to three daughters, author, humor columnist and speaker. She thanks God for the days she is successfully able to multi-task. Read her blog at www.robinschicks.com or contact her via email at robinschicks@gmail.com. metrochristianliving.com ❘ JULY 2011 21

➺food for thought

“My food,” said Jesus, “is to do the will of Him that sent me, and to finish His work.”

by LYDIA BOLEN

J

– John 4:34

Patriotic Dishes

uly is America’s patriotic time of year. This is the time

we celebrate July 4th, our country’s birthday. There are many foods that remind me of this celebration. Most fun patriotic foods are red, white and blue…the colors of our American flag. You can get patriotic with

COMEBACK SAUCE/DRESSING I found this recipe in The Clarion-Ledger years ago. It comes from Robert St. John, our own Mississippi favorite chef and writer. He writes that Mississippi has one sauce that is original. One sauce that puts us on the culinary map. It is the sauce we can truly call our own… Comeback Sauce. This sauce can be used as a salad dressing, a dip for fried onion rings, fried pickles, or even fried mushrooms. You will know why it has this name when you eat it…you will always want to “Come back” for more.

1 1/2 1/2 1/2 1/2 3 2 1 1 1 1 1/2 1

cup mayonnaise cup ketchup cup chili sauce cup vegetable oil cup yellow onion, grated tablespoons lemon juice tablespoons garlic, minced tablespoon paprika tablespoon water tablespoon Worcestershire teaspoon pepper teaspoon dry mustard teaspoon salt

themed breakfasts, lunches, dinners and snacks. Try some colorful recipes for fun all month long. Enjoy my Blueberry Buttermilk Pancakes, delicious old-fashioned Potato Salad, and our Mississippi favorite….Comeback Sauce.

BLUEBERRY BUTTERMILK PANCAKES

OLD FASHIONED POTATO SALAD

DRY INGREDIENTS 2 cups all purpose flour 1/2 teaspoon salt 1/2 teaspoon baking powder 1/2 teaspoon baking soda 2 tablespoons sugar 2 large eggs 1/2 cup buttermilk 1 cup milk 3 tablespoons warm melted butter 1 cup fresh blueberries 1 tablespoon of butter Mix the dry ingredients in a bowl. Mix the eggs, milk and buttermilk in a separate bowl.

Add the wet ingredients into the dry ingredients.

Mix until the batter just comes together. Add the melted butter. Mix lightly. Fold in the blueberries. Heat a griddle to medium high heat.

Oil the pan with the tablespoon of butter. Ladle the pancake batter onto the griddle to the desired size. Serves 3 to 4.

Serve immediately with warm butter, maple syrup, or blueberry syrup.

2 pounds red skin potatoes (cook with skins on) 3 boiled eggs, chopped and cubed 1/2 cup celery, chopped 1/4 cup chopped green onion 1/2 cup sweet pickle relish 1 tablespoon prepared mustard 1/2 cup mayonnaise, more if needed Course salt to taste Ground black pepper to taste 1 teaspoon celery seed Place potatoes in a saucepan and cover with water; bring to a boil. Reduce heat and cook for 20-25 minutes or until tender. Drain. Let potatoes cool, then remove skins. Chop potatoes into chunks. Place potatoes in a large bowl; add chopped eggs, celery and onions.

In a small bowl, combine the remaining ingredients. Pour over potato mixture and toss with a rubber spatula to coat. Garnish with fresh chopped parsley or traditional paprika. Cover and refrigerate for several hours before serving.

Serves 6 to 8.

Combine all ingredients in a food processor and mix well. Yield: 3 1/2 cups.

Remember to make memories through the kitchen...“the heartbeat of the home”. Go to my blog at www.lydiasapron.blogspot.com or email me at lbbolen@gmail.com.

22 JULY 2011 ❘ Metro Christian Living

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What message do you hope to share through your art?

No painter can capture the true beauty of God’s creation. To even give the viewer a sense of time and place is truly gratifying.

Do you have a teacher or mentor that inspired your creative talent?

In my small hometown of Pickens, we had a teacher, Melvin Worthey who taught us to draw and paint in pastels in fifth and sixth grade.

Do you have a website?

Gracebuchanan.com

Is there anything else you would like to add?

I am thankful for the many blessings in my life and hope to use the gift of art to inspire others.

Kathryn Wiggins Early Spring

Grace Buchanan Grace Buchanan grew up in a family where artists were abundant. She never remembers a time that art was not part of her life. “Expressing oneself through art is an ongoing learning process.”

“The thickness of my paintings with the innocence of wobbly hand-drawn lines reflect the emotions of reconciliation, closeness, and familiarity. I want the viewer to feel a sense of calm in the rhythms, exhibiting the continuity of a long-established place to call home.”

What did you want to be when you grew up?

What is your medium?

I always wanted to be an artist. Most of my childhood was spent drawing imaginatively. I started out drawing mermaids and fairies, then that moved to copying illustrations from my books. I did not know I would be an abstract painter because I had never really looked at abstract art when I was a child. I just knew I liked the feeling of painting images and it was natural for me to want to emulate the illustrations in my favorite books.

I paint in oils primarily.

What’s your medium?

What is your favorite subject?

I paint with oil and watercolors. They are very different from each other, but I enjoy exploring those differences. Watercolor is fresh and quick, and makes for lots of variation in one shape. Oil painting is much heavier but is very good for texture, which is why I like it for portraying tapestries or woven materials.

What did you want to be when you grew up?

A mother. I wanted six children just like my mother.

Lately I have done mostly landscapes—Mississippi related—but I love still life and figurative work, too.

Was there a moment when you knew this was your purpose and passion?

I remember having a deep desire to learn all I could about painting and this can only come with hard work and study.

Where and when do you feel the most creative?

In my studio or painting in plein air.

24 JULY 2011 ❘ Metro Christian Living

What’s your favorite subject?

The subjects of my work are quilts, coziness, repetition, and nostalgia. I enjoy making work that makes one think of home and domestic life. My art is inspired by quilts and folk art, for both their texture and repetitive nature.

Julie McCartney “…there was never a moment that I knew my purpose was to be an artist. It was just always who I was.”

What did you want to be when you grew up?

Being an artist was my top choice since as early as I can remember. It was as if it was never a question what I would be. However, my back up plan was to be either an archeologist, a veterinarian or a race car driver. My husband says I make a great race car driver!

What’s your medium?

Oil.

What’s your favorite subject?

My absolute favorite is people. I do love landscape and still life, though.

What gives you inspiration?

That Shall Never Run Dry

Was there a moment when you knew this was your purpose and passion?

I knew I wanted to pursue painting seriously when I was in college. I remember loving painting in my figure painting class; that was where I learned the most about color and how it works together when I was painting the model in class. From there, I began putting colors together without a figure in the painting, and that is when I knew this was my passion.

What gives you inspiration?

My grandmother’s quilts were an unsuspecting inspiration for my work.

She always made beautiful quilts, but I never thought about them as an inspiration until she gave me a colorful baby quilt that made me want to paint every time I looked at it. I painted a watercolor that was structured like her quilt and a series was born. Quilts, cultural artifacts (the more ancient, the better), trees and the local landscapes - all of this contributes to my work.

What message do you hope to share through your art?

How light illuminates a subject and can make anything beautiful. God is the ultimate artist and I am honored that He let me be a little bit like Him in that way. He inspires me. His Creation is breath-taking.

Where and when do you feel the most creative?

I feel the most creative when I am outside and when I am observing nature in beautiful light. I especially love late afternoon light.

What message do you hope to share through your art?

I would love to know that my art helped someone see a beauty in God’s Creation that they might have otherwise missed.

What do you enjoy most about creating your art?

I love the study of light and color out of doors. I enjoy the actual process of trying to get the color relationships as accurate as possible so as to represent my subject with as much truth as I can. I love the study part.

If you could describe your art in one word, what would it be?

Realistic

Do you have a mentor or teacher that inspired your creative talent?

In my early days as an artist, Dorothy See and the faculty at Mississippi

I don’t really have a ‘message’ that I’m sharing, but I believe it is important for Christian artists to create quality work that improves a broken world with images of beauty and truth.

What do you enjoy most about creating your art?

I most enjoy those moments where I’m really sure of myself and able to move quickly through a painting. That is when creating is the most fun, when a plan is well executed. There are some times when a painting is presenting a challenge, and while that is a difficulty and sometimes a setback, I also enjoy working through that.

If you could describe your art in one word, what would it be?

Warm

Do you have a mentor or teacher that inspired your creative talent?

I loved taking art lessons from Ruth Kimbrough when I was young; I would say she helped me recognize my creative talent. In college, Jeffrey Haupt was a key professor who was able to push me to a higher level of art making. But nearly every teacher and professor influenced me to improve; I had some especially good ones at Mississippi State University.

Do you have a website? www.kathrynwiggins.com

The Garner Children metrochristianliving.com ❘ JULY 2011 25

College, including Steve Glaze and Sam Gore, mentored me. Now, I am studying the Henry Hensche approach to painting and Camille Przewodek, Dale Axelrod, and Sammy Britt have been huge inspirations for me.

Do you have a website? www.juliemccartney.com

Is there anything else you would like to share?

Yes. Henry Hensche was a modern master painter and teacher who led a very important movement in art from the mid 1900’s until his death in 1992. I think that anyone interested in art should be aware of him and his contribution to art history. I believe he has eclipsed even Monet in his contributions to art. One can learn about him through the Hensche Foundation at www.HenryHenscheFoundation.org or through the Henry Hensche group site on Face book.

Was there a moment when you knew this was your purpose and passion?

I think in every person’s life there is a powerful experience that leads them to know that “This is it…this is what you are meant to do.” Even though we may not be able to pursue that purpose, that passion at that time because there are four babies to feed and nurture, clothe and educate, if you truly own it, it will come to be.

What gives you inspiration?

I am inspired everyday by the beauty of this earth. Even with the horrors of floods and wreckage of tornados, I am inspired by the goodness of mankind, the flowers in the thorns and the reminder that we take so much for granted.”

Where and when do you feel the most creative?

I feel the most creative when I have been away from painting, and the “need” to paint is so compelling that I can’t sleep for thinking about it.”

If you could describe your art in one word, what would it be?

Describing art in one word is not a fair question, but I will try to answer with one word, regardless. “Tango.” Quoting from my early watercolor teacher, John Gaddis, watercolor painting is much like a Tango. There is a need for control and a need for spontaneity, and knowing when to stop during the dance is not easy.

Do you have a mentor or teacher that inspired your creative talent?

I have studied on my own, with friends and some of the finest teachers from around the world, but the first artist who inspired me as a very young person and inspires me still to this very day is Bob Coleman, who allowed me to watch over his shoulder as he painted in Yazoo City. His murals were on every building that someone would let him paint on. To this day he is, and will always be, my mentor.

Do you have a website? hopecarrart.com

Is there anything else you would like to share?

And My Sheep Know Me

There is nothing left to say except for the gratefulness that I have for my husband Jody for always encouraging me in every possible way and for giving me a reassurance, in his words and in his actions, that anything is possible.

Hope Carr “My favorite subject is whatever captures my attention at any given moment. I get as excited about painting a landscape as I do a rooster.

The subjects are unlimited and I see them with a new eye every day. It just depends on which one stands out at the moment and grabs hold and says, ‘Paint ME!’”

What did you want to be when you grew up?

There was never any question in my mind that I would not be an artist at some point in my life. One of my very first special Christmas gifts was an easel of my very own, and since there were three other siblings, something of my very own was really special. I dressed up in an apron and stood there for hours creating my masterpieces.

What’s your medium?

My main medium is watercolor, but on occasions I love to paint with acrylics. I will also use pastels on top of watercolor at times. I am always trying something new to experiment, but watercolor—I will always come back to it.

26 JULY 2011 ❘ Metro Christian Living

Brent Funderburk Brent Funderburk, Professor of Art at Mississippi State University, was also the official artist for the 2010 International Ballet Competition. “Growing up as a twin, most of my time was spent with my brother Mike, now an architect. Together we made right/left brained wholes in the sandbox and on paper. I always was/wanted to continue to be what adults now call “artist.”

What is your medium?

Watercolor—but have mixed it with many others—including acrylic, drawing, photography, words, music.

What gives you inspiration?

I am inspired by the daily appearance, as if on cue, of new phenomena

Kate Thomas Kate Thomas’s creativity didn’t find its venue until she had already completed one college degree. As her on-line store continues to bring her fans from all around the country, Kate is still honing her skills through attending design conferences with renowned graphic artists.

What did you want to be when you grew up?

I wanted to be a lot of things. The main one was to be the star of Broadway. I also went through phases of wanting to become an archeologist, librarian, teacher, and singer.

What’s your medium?

That would be my Bic Z4 .5 mm writing pen and my sketchbook.

What’s your favorite subject?

As generic as it may sound, I love flowers. You can convey everything in a flower—passion, pain, joy, hope, innocence, happiness.

Was there a moment when you knew this was your purpose and passion?

Today in nature and its exact correspondence with what I am looking for/need.

Often I step over it or upon it and look back it, crushed, and, only then, realize. Trying to catch or (or slow down to!) my Faith’s reply.

What message do you hope to share with your art?

I am so weary of didactic symbolism and iconic messages that are conceived by the writer/artist and aimed at some bullseye. If I can love, with all my being, the color/shape harmony that is almost beautiful just beyond me, and pitch it just within visible perception, it will be enough.

Yes. I was 26 years old working in the corporate offices of a bank in Downtown Jackson. If I started to explain what I was doing there, you’d fall asleep. Completely boring! I was so unhappy. I knew I was really creative, and I knew I needed a change. It just took me a few months to figure out what the change was going to be. So I decided to go back to school. I moved up to Starkville to Mississippi State in fall of 2007 to pursue my degree in Graphic Design. It took 3 and 1/2 years to get my degree. I knew that it was my passion when I decided to rollover my 401K, and become a poor college student again. I had asked myself the

What do you most enjoy about creating your art?

I do love the never-the-same collisions of fluid color as paint colludes with paper, hand(tool), and air. I wander in the balance between control and acquiescence in the painting. This drama is never quite learned; keeps me interested! I can’t do the same thing twice; sheer dread!

If you could describe your art in one word, what would it be?

Luminosity

Do you have a mentor or teacher that inspired your creative talent?

Edward Reep is (at 92) a master teacher and painter. WWII combat artist, Guggenheim Fellow. In my first college design class (East Carolina University School of Art) he kicked my sorry self into gear when I thought I knew it all. His book, The Content of Watercolor is not a “how to” book but a philosophical preparation for the artist’s life.

Do you have a website? www.brentfunderburk.com

Is there anything you would like to add?

I must report that Jesus Christ, the human being, the artist, and the Divine, is the vital force glimmering elusively throughout the color/shape continuum as I fumble/dance toward the fulfillment. For Him, I hope to be a translucent (note I did not say transparent!) medium. He said, “Let YOUR light shine before all men, that they can see your good work, and glorify the Father in Heaven,” YOUR light.

Joyful Joyful metrochristianliving.com ❘ JULY 2011 27

questions “What do you want to do when you retire?” and “What kind of work will you do for free?” Life is too short and precious to spend it wasting away on mediocre. That’s what I was doing. It didn’t make financial sense to go back to school, but I know NOW that I would rather be poor and happy, than rich and unfulfilled.

What gives you inspiration?

I’m very inspired by all types of folk art. I love how raw and wild it can be. Folk art originates in the home, not from a fancy art school. Common everyday people wanted to make their homes a little bit prettier. They were untrained. That’s what I love. They just happened upon these brilliant color combinations and beautiful compositions. I’m currently looking and reading books on quilts, Oriental rugs, and Russian textiles.

Where and when do you feel the most creative?

I go through spurts of it, so if I get to go to a museum to see some amazing art, or I meet someone that really inspires me, I usually go home and start working. Then I need either coffee or a Diet Coke and some good music.

What message do you hope to share through your art?

I hope to share happiness and a return to naivety. I know that’s what I need. My mentor Brent Funderburk told me “Artists are always trying to heal our eyes.” And he also told me “For your art to be universal, then you have to go deeper into your own understanding.” Those are very true words. I’ve started to understand people respond to my work when I’m honest with my work. I do use a lot of old hymns in my work, so I do hope I spread the Gospel in that little way.

What’s your medium?

What do you enjoy most about creating your art?

My favorite subject is always whatever I am working on—birds, landscapes , or still lifes.

I don’t really have something I enjoy the most. I just love it all. I love thinking over an idea, sometimes I think on it for a year before I start it.

If you could describe your art in one word, what would it be?

Balloons (and if I could make it two words - yellow balloons).

Do you have a mentor or teacher that inspired your creative talent?

I have two teachers that really have inspired me. I took Brent Funderburk for two watercolor classes at Mississippi State. He’s one of those people I always want to have a pen and paper in my hand when I’m around him, because there are going to be several things I am going to write down. He will tell me something in passing, and I will spend three months thinking about it. “What yellow is your yellow?” and “We need to live like we are loved.” The other teacher is one of my graphic design teachers Jamie Mixon. She always says to me “You can do this.” And she really pushes and challenges me.

Do you have a website?

LittleThingsStudio.com and online shop LittleThingsStudio.Etsy.com

Zinnia Sunflower with Persimmons

I paint only in oils at the present.

What is your favorite subject?

Was there a moment when you knew this was your purpose and passion?

I began systematic weekly lessons when I was five years old. Through this routine I grew to anticipate my time in the studio with great joy.

There I found a way to express myself without speaking. Through this process from kindergarten through high school, I learned the history of Art and I made a conscious decision to be a part of this ongoing fluid movement called Art. I studied art at MSCW and graduated in Art from Ole Miss.

What gives you inspiration?

I draw inspiration from my environment, the life that is all around me, the birds, the flowers, the light on the pavement—God allows me to reflect His Glory as best I can in attempting to capture it on canvas

What message do you hope to share through your art?

I pray that the viewer can see the Light and the Glory of the Lord revealed in my life and the joy I have in painting His world.

What do you enjoy most about creating your art?

I enjoy knowing that I am called to be an artist. The Lord gave me any talent I may have and I am to use it to glorify Him in all I do.

Lisa Paris The artistic genes run strong in the Paris family as Lisa’s late mother was an artist and her two daughters are artists in their own right. “I always wanted a big family with lots of family type activity.

Painting has become just that in our family. It is a joy to be able to share the time in the studio creating with my two daughters. Even my husband and son help in the art—they are our best critics— and they do have a good eye!”

28 JULY 2011 ❘ Metro Christian Living

If you could describe your art in one word, what would it be?

Joyful.

Do you have a mentor or teacher that inspired your creative talent?

My mentor is the Creator Himself. It is a precious opportunity to commune with Him while I am in the studio. Time flies by as the time in the studio is very worshipful for me.

Do you have a website?

Yes. www.lisaparis.com

Vivian Paris Vivian is only 17 and is a student at Jackson Prep.

The winner of numerous awards through the Scholastic Arts Competition, her work has already been featured on the cover of the National Catalogue that presents the winners. Her artwork was also selected for the Scholastic School calendar that was sent to each public high school art department in the United States. The very unassuming Vivian says, “I have no clue what I want to be when I grow up, but I know art will play a fun role in my career.”

What is your medium?

My medium is primarily oil, but I like to have fun with acrylic.

Roadway

What’s your favorite subject?

My favorite subjects come from pictures I take. That way, I know what and where I am painting, and I know the story behind the painting.

When you paint a picture with a good memory behind the canvas, the painting turns out with more creativity and life.

What message do you hope to share through your art?

What I love to share the most through my art is the joy I have when I am done. I want people to see my art and see what joy it brought me. When I find that someone enjoys my work, it makes me feel that I have accomplished my goal.

Rachel Marie Paris Rachel, who is Vivian’s big sister, is currently finishing her Masters Degree in Psychology. Her painting is and will always be something she enjoys “on the side.” However, like her mom and her sister, she is an in-demand artist around the metro area.

What’s your medium?

I paint in oils, watercolors, and acrylics. I prefer oils, but since they are more expensive and take more patience, I’ve done more work with acrylics lately.

What gives you inspiration?

I find inspiration from a variety of sources: in architecture, pictures, music, nature. Often, I feel inspired after noticing a different tint of blue in the sky or some unexpected color in a sunset…I think it’s one of those funny things about having that creative gene- you never know what will strike your fancy and make you want to paint.

What message do you hope to share in your art?

I’m not sure if I am established enough to have a strong message to share, but if I could pick something for folks to take away from seeing some of my work it would be that there is great beauty in imperfection.

What do you enjoy most about creating art?

Bright colors and thick paint make me happy! I think there is incredible therapeutic value in creating art. I know for certain that it has been a delightful form of stress relief while I have made my way through grad school!

Do you have a mentor or teacher that inspired your creative talent?

That’s easy! My mom. My mom is the one who encouraged me to paint and has made it easy for me to keep up the habit. I don’t know how much of the creativity is hereditary, but I think about my mother and her mother a lot when I paint.

Tree metrochristianliving.com ❘ JULY 2011 29

Joel Brown with Brown’s Fine Art, who took me on as one of his artists and his only photographer at the time. Mark Hinkle, a photographer who has more talent in his fingernail than I have in my whole body.

Do you have a website? www.dbaart.com

Do you have anything else you would like to share?

You promised me that if I would do this interview that I could explain my trepidation in being interviewed in a Christian magazine. I want anyone reading this who doesn’t know me to know that in the words of Gregg Allman, “I’m no angel.” I fail daily and the reason I strongly believe in God is because there is no other entity other than God that would have the patience to continue to forgive a wretch like me. If you do know me…you already knew that.

Tupelo Gum

David Adams “I didn’t even own a camera when I was involved in a photo shoot of my family for an advertising campaign. Although I wasn’t asked to be involved, I couldn’t help it. I just got it.”

What’s your medium?

Digital Photography

What’s your favorite subject?

If I had all the time in the world, I would predominately take landscapes.

That is where I feel like I am better at conveying the magnificence of God’s creation. But then I will have the Mom of one of the baseball players tell me that no one has ever been able to catch that smile that is the essence of his personality. I don’t know why because the beauty of that smile is as obvious to me as the sun coming up on flooded timber in the Mississippi Delta. Even if I have never met that child, when he or she finally breaks that smile, I usually pick it up immediately as who they are. That’s the one I try to send to the parent.

What gives you inspiration?

The quiet of the early morning, the remorse over the end of another beautiful day as the sun sets, laughter of a child, and bills.

Aspens with Turquoise

What message do you hope to share through your art?

That the beauty of God’s work is all around us and that in a world that demands we not take our eyes away from a smart phone, we keep walking right past it. That we have to slow down and take the time to be outside in the woods or field first thing in the morning or that we might have to leave work an hour early to see the smile on our children’s face at that baseball game. I hope that seeing my photography will create a yearning to return (if for a moment) to the simplicity of God’s creation of us and for us.

Do you have a mentor or teacher that inspired your creative talent?

Four people come to mind immediately. My wife—for telling me that she truly thought I could be good at anything I tried and for being the backbone of my team sports photography. Sells Newman with First South Farm Credit Union, my first corporate customer who stumbled upon that first set of pictures I ever took and used them in his marketing campaign.

30 JULY 2011 ❘ Metro Christian Living

Carol Sneed “It is really a blessing to paint, enjoy it, and then have people buy my art. I hope the energy and pleasure that went into creating my art will be transferred to the viewer.”

What’s your medium?

Oil.

What’s your favorite subject?

I love painting abstracts and also landscapes with Aspen trees. I also love painting city scenes and interiors in a stylized, abstract fashion.

Was there a moment when you knew this was your purpose and passion?

When I retired from Interior Design, my creative energy was bursting to surface somehow. Inspired on family vacations out west, while riding horses through meadows of waist-high wild flowers, scrubby sage, and rocky terrain, I memorized every detail and realized that painting was my outlet. Attending local art classes and workshops taught by nationallynoted artists gave me a jump-start and I was hooked!

What gives you inspiration?

I am overwhelmingly inspired by nature. There is a God-given color scheme in every venue, every animal, every insect, and every leaf!

Where and when do you feel the most creative?

While I am painting, I feel the most creative when I am relaxed and just going with the flow, letting my instincts take over.

What do you enjoy most about creating your art?

I especially enjoy mixing any colors I want and putting them together. I am loving getting to paint the sort of artwork that I searched for on design jobs. I feel that now I have the best of both worlds. I have been painting commissions for people who need certain sizes or colors. After commissioning my, a person is under no obligation to buy the painting.

This frees us both up. I can do my best work, and they are not locked in.

Do you have a mentor or teacher that inspired your creative talent?

Not one. There have been many who have given me gems to get me from one stage to the next. I continue to learn through studying the work of those I have admired throughout history.

Do you have a website?

Carolsneed.com

Carole Bailey “Beauty is in the eye of the beholder, and our world has paintings everywhere you look. But you have to teach yourself to see them, and to see color.”

What did you want to be when you grew up?

I wanted to be a writer, but have always loved art since I was a little girl. My mother was an artist…She instilled in me a love and an appreciation for all mediums and art of many kinds. I think growing up in that environment made me take it for granted until I moved away and realized how special it really was.

What is your medium?

I love oils. I love their texture and their forgiving nature. I love their depth of color, their richness and everything about them.

What’s your favorite subject?

I would have to say landscapes are my favorite, and I especially love sunsets and sunrises. I love the combination of the mood they can reflect, the lights and darks, and the colors that I can only try to duplicate because they came originally from God. He is the master artist of all!

Countryside Poppies

Was there a moment when you knew this was your purpose and passion?

I put off painting for a very long time, even though I would always draw with a pencil and gravitated toward art galleries as a hobby. Then I decided on Mother’s Day one year that I wanted to paint a painting. So I went to my mother’s studio, sat down and did it in a couple of hours. It was an imaginary landscape that I still own. From that moment on, I have continued to paint places I’ve been or I’d love to go visit, and scenes that hit my senses and passion…When I actually started painting in my 30’s, I only did it to help support non-profit organizations. I felt it was a way for me to make a contribution in a small way. Even today, most of my paintings can only be found in non profit fundraisers or commissions. Someday I hope to paint full time. I guess time will tell!

What gives you inspiration?

Being with other artists inspires me. I love my art class that I’ve taken from Bob Tompkins. He’s an amazing teacher, and when I have a problem with a painting, he always knows what to tell me. Nature inspires me—the real colors of the seasons, which I sometimes embellish. Flowers and God’s creations are always inspiring.

Is there anything else you would like to share?

Just that I’m humbled to be asked to share my faith with my art. I do feel closer to God when I’m painting, even when I get frustrated. Not that He likes my frustration, but that’s when I learn. Some paintings are a definite learning process, but when I get in the zone, everything clicks and it’s truly one of my favorite things I do. God’s creations are so exquisite, and I can only try to paint them as beautifully as He has created. That’s my goal. Y

metrochristianliving.com ❘ JULY 2011 31

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healthy living

by TAMMY THOMAS (PART 1 OF 2)

FITNESS BOOT CAMPS

Offer Direction and Results For Your Fitness Success

ith the public’s heightened awareness of the benefits of participating in a fitness boot camp, more people are flocking to them to address their health and fitness needs. Whether you’re looking for fun workouts for the long haul, or you just want to give yourself a jump start, fitness boot camps offer a challenging and motivating way to get into shape and meet other people just like yourself, from beginner to advanced. As with anything in life, achieving your goal will take lots of determination, dedication, and desire (you have to work for it). If you are seeking to achieve a higher level of fitness, a fitness boot camp is for you.

W

So what is a fitness boot camp? It’s a group fitness program designed to mimic strenuous physical fitness training formerly only employed by military and law enforcement officials. Many boot camps today offer programs designed to improve strength and conditioning, and speed and agility training for sports. In short ... it’s no joke! Boot camps are extremely effective for getting you into shape pronto! Some boot camps are held for definite time periods of 2-12 weeks, while other boot camps are held continuously on a monthly basis.

So Why Are Fitness Boot Camps a Surefire Way To Ultimate Fitness?

MOTIVATION Oftentimes, once people start thinking about the health they want, it isn’t long before they start to think about all the obstacles in their path, and soon, they’ve talked their way out of God’s best. Your boot camp instructor is your mentor and guide to ensure that you stick to your exercise regime. You’ll be pushed beyond your perceived limits and exceed the goals you have set for yourself. The boot camp environment keeps you focused on your goals and is dedicated to keeping you on track. In general, even the most non-athletically minded people will push themselves on their own when they’re in a group. That’s human nature.

PRICE Hiring a fitness professional is a wise investment of time and money.

However, hiring a personal trainer for private one-on-one sessions can cost from $40.00 - $65.00 per session in Mississippi, racking up as much as $780 per month. On the other hand, the price for 4-5 days per week of a fitness boot camp ranges from $9 - $20 per session and $150-$265 per month. Better yet, boot camps often offer special deals to entice new customers.

RESULTS - BOOT CAMPS WORK Fat loss is the number one sought after goal of boot campers. Muscle trickery is key. These programs cram a lot of exercises and calorie burning into a short time frame. Picture this: thirty to forty-five minutes of maximal exercise exertion designed to burn mega calories boot camp style by working practically every muscle in a short period of time. Your body fat melts away, while gaining muscle mass and increasing

metabolism, which in turn leaves you with increased ability to burn even more calories while lounging around during the remainder of your day.

CAMARADERIE At the forefront of boot camp popularity is the ability to break away from the daily isolation and stress of the corporate grind. A dose of social interaction and encouragement from your peers can work wonders.

Additionally, participants often compete against each other and guide each other through the workouts.

Not only are our bodies a gift from God, our bodies belong to God, and we are to honor Him in how we treat them. “...You are a temple of God, and the Spirit of God dwells in you. If any man destroys the temple of God, God will destroy him, for the temple of God is holy, and that is what you are.” 1 Corinthians 3:16-17. Build your body for victory with Jesus by enrolling in a fitness boot camp today.

Stay tuned for Part 2 next month. Y

Tammy Thomas, owner of MS Fitness Pro, LLC in Ridgeland, is a certified personal trainer, boot camp instructor, and motivational speaker. Tammy has recently pioneered fitness adventure camps in Mississippi. She holds a law degree from The University of Oklahoma College of Law and a Fitness Management degree from Mississippi State University. She thanks God for the special gifts and amazing works that He has done in her life. Read her new blog at http://www.msfitnesspro.com, http://www.jacksonbootcamppros.com, or contact via email at: tammy@msfitnesspro.com to sign up for her bi-monthly newsletter. metrochristianliving.com ❘ JULY 2011 33

➺welcome home

by KATE THOMAS

Fancy Walls I

wanted to share with you a few inexpensive ways to hang art. Doing the traditional frame job can get quite pricey, oftentimes exceeding the cost of the art itself, especially if it’s a print. And you and I both know what’s going to happen to the piece if you do not hang it right after you buy it— build up dust in a corner and eventually end up in a garage sale, or get thrown away because it got torn or bent when you were moving it! I am speaking from a lot of personal experience on that one. Here are four ideas I wanted to share to hopefully help you take charge of that pile of stuff and make your walls fancy.

1

YARN & CLOTHESPINS. This is my new favorite way to hang prints and posters. Go to your local craft store (or even Walmart!) and buy some fabulous bright yarn. Then grab some craft paint to use on some clothespins. You can string the yarn between two nails and clothespin the paper. OR you can do my personal favorite and hang prints straight down from one nail on a string. (See the JOY picture for example.) And the great thing is you don’t have to stick with just yarn.

What if you used some unexpected material like old computer or phone cords?

2

MOUNTING ON WOOD PANELS. This is a super easy and sleek way to hang work. (See the example of the “Come Thou Fount” print mounted on wood.)

You can find wooden panels made just for hanging art. All you have to do is attach the print or photo with spray adhesive to the panel. (If you are going to use spray adhesive, go outside to use it! Do not need to expose yourself to those fumes!) On finding wood, you could just go to your local hardware store and prepare the wood yourself, but I suggest making it easy on yourself and finding them online. They already have them cut into standard sizes and there is a cutout on the back ready for your to hang. You can find them at www.Plywerk.com or on www.DickBlick.com.

34 JULY 2011 ❘ Metro Christian Living

3

LEDGES. Instead of putting a canvas into a frame, just prop it against a ledge. This can be a freestanding ledge that you buy from a store, or it can be the top of a table or bookshelf. It can also make a really eye catching grouping with hanging work beside it.

4

COAT HANGERS. This might sound a bit out there, but this is a really unique way to hang art. You just use clothespins to attach the work, or you buy hangers with clips. You could even paint the hangers for a little extra sass. Y

by SUSAN DEAVER

➺

our daily bread

How Do You Keep

THE FAITH? T

his column is for sharing our faith with other readers. Sharing with and serving others changes us and reminds us that our time on earth is about much more than our own needs. To share your story or favorite scripture, please e-mail us at info@metrochristianliving.com.

Adults with

ADHD • Tired of procrastinating?

• Overlooking details?

• Having problems starting and finishing tasks?

• Underestimating the time it takes to complete tasks?

• Not feeling organized?

• Struggling to finish tasks on time?

• Having difficulty prioritizing?

• Achieving a healthy life balance?

Juanita M. Powell “I keep the faith by trusting the Lord. Trust in the Lord with all thine heart and lean not unto thine own understanding, In all thy ways acknowledge Him and He shall direct your path.

Be not wise in thine own eyes. Fear the lord and depart from evil (Proverbs 3:5-7).

This is a favorite verse yet it has taken me years and a closer walk with Jesus to understand it. When I was younger, I depended on my mother’s faith and trusted only a little bit. I was depressed for many years during and after the breakup of my marriage. Medicine and therapy helped, but it was trust in God in those situations which I had no control over that brought me out of depression. God will and can take what is painful and use it for good (Romans 8:28). While raising my sons as a divorced mother, my faith continued to grow. Then the empty nest came and I was alone. I dreaded staying alone and was very dissatisfied with my life. I began to trust Him more because He has never proved to be untrustworthy. When I couldn’t see what or why something was happening in my life at that present moment, in due time I could see and understand that things had been worked out for my good.

Through much study, encouragement from friends and family, I’ve learned to walk daily with the Lord, trusting Him daily, hourly, as needed. I will continue to trust Jesus in good times as well as bad times, with little problems as well as big problems.

I have learned that trust in Jesus’ power will produce a faith that conquers fear and leaves little room for doubt or discouragement.”

Y

Juanita M. Powell is a data control clerk at the MS State Department of Health.

Suzanne B. Russell, LPC; PLLC Licensed Professional Counselor As a LIFE COACH for adults with ADHD I had much success in helping adults with ADHD reach career and/or academic goals and improve the quality of relationships. I also provide diagnosis of ADHD and a direct referral to a medical professional with NO psychological evaluation necessary.

ij 665 Highway 51 North, Suite C Ridgeland, MS 39157

601.707.7355 Monday-Thursday: 9am to 5pm Friday: 9am to 12 noon

ij “Be devoted to one another in brotherly love.

Honor one another above yourselves.”

– Romans 12:10

Email: suzanne.russell09@yahoo.com Accept all major insurance companies and credit cards and have after hours appointments available. metrochristianliving.com ❘ JULY 2011 35

â&#x17E;şletâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s talk it over COMFORT MY PEOPLE!

by DR. CHARLES BOUDREAUX

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s a counselor one of the most enjoyable aspects of my work with people is God working through me to bring His comfort to the hurting. I love the scripture passage in Isaiah (40:1) where God is instructing the prophets or priests to provide words of consolation to His people who are in captivity in Babylon. God wants His people to know that the end of their captivity is coming, that brighter and happier days will follow in accordance with the unchanging promises of a faithful Godâ&#x20AC;&#x201D;promises of complete and eternal deliverance. I can only imagine how comforting that good news of deliverance was.

God wants to comfort us with that same good news. God has provided deliverance for us. By the self-sacrificial death of Jesus on the cross our sin guilt has been paid for, our lives have been redeemed, and we have the promise of eternal life with God in heaven. We have the promise of the Lordâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s continual presence, peace and power to live daily in victory and joy. Great news! Still many of Godâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s children still live in emotional and spiritual captivity. Why? A true story I recently read about a missionary couple living in a jungle might help us understand why. One day an enormous snakeâ&#x20AC;&#x201D;much longer than a manâ&#x20AC;&#x201D;slithered through this coupleâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s open front door and into the kitchen of their home.

When we are going Terrified, they ran outside to get help. One of the locals came to the rescue bringing a large machete. He calmly through the agony of walked into the house and chopped the head off the snake lifeâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s problems the with one swift chop. The man walked out of the house and temptation may be to assured the missionaries that the snake had indeed been defeated. However, he warned that it would take a while for despair. Instead, we would do well to the snake to realize that it was dead. (A snakeâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s neurology and blood flow are such that it can take considerable time remember that Satan for it to stop moving even after decapitation.) is a goner!

As the missionaries waited outside, the snake thrashed about, smashing furniture and flailing against walls and windows, until its body finally understood that it no longer had a head. Sweating in the heat, the missionaries felt frustrated and sickened but also grateful that the snakeâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s rampage wouldnâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;t last forever.

Satan is like that snake. Jesus has already crushed the serpentâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s head, and his days to bother us wonâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;t last forever. In the meantime heâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s going to do some damage. We are in the thrashing time, a season characterized by our continuing to do damage to each other and ourselves. When we are going through the agony of lifeâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s problems the temptation may be to despair. Instead, we would do well to remember that Satan is a goner! We can take comfort in the knowledge that though for a while we wrestle with the brokenness that plagues the world and ourselves, we can face our addictions and afflictions with an assurance that we are living slowly but surely into the healing already obtained on the Cross. There is still a waiting. In some cases the healing may not come in fullness until we are face-to-face with our Victorâ&#x20AC;&#x201D;but come it will. Guaranteed!

The author of the story asks: What does this mean for us now? One of the mysteries of living in Godâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s plan is that although the end of the story has already been determined, somehow He is still using us to write it. Because Jesus lives in us through His Spirit, we are called not just to anticipate the overcoming but also to be part of bringing it to fruition. We are called to carry the comforting good news of deliverance to the hurting. We are called to be healers-to fight poverty, oppression, greed, and maliceâ&#x20AC;&#x201D;in the world and in our own spirits. We are invited to live in light of the reality that greater by far is the living God who is within us than the dead snake thrashing about in this world! Y Dr. Charles A Boudreaux Associate Pastor of Counseling First Baptist Church Jackson Clinical Supervisor Summit Counseling.

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➺the think tank

by ANDY WIMBERLY

What is Your Unique Ability?

Are you using it? Do you even know what is? present? Or, in the many and numerous things and projects that you are involved in, do you ever feel frustrated and/or confused, worried if you are up to the task, if you measure up to others?

In every area of our lives, whether it is teaching, writing, gardening, selling, preaching, exercising, leading, cleaning and on and on; we will do it in one of four ways:

Incompetent - Competent - Excellent - Unique Ability.

“It’s been said that our potential is God’s gift to us, and what we do with it is our gift to Him. But at the same time, our potential is probably our greatest untapped resource. Henry Ford said, “There is no man living who isn’t capable of doing more than he thinks he can do.” We have nearly limitless potential, yet too few ever try to reach it.

Why? The answer lies in this: We can do anything, but we can’t do everything. Many people let everyone around them decide their agenda in life. As a result, they never really find their purpose in life. They become a jack-of-all-trades, master of none—rather than a jack-of-few-trades, focused on one”. (Maxwell, John C. (2008) 365 Days of Insight) I call GOD’s special gift Your Unique Ability. Unique Ability is something that you love doing and can do better than most anyone else on the planet. I have spent the last twenty years attending, studying, learning, reading and thinking on what makes a person unique; in other words, valuable to his organization, his church, his boss. I want to give all the credit to my friends Dan Sullivan of the Strategic Coach in Toronto and Dan Taylor, inventor of the Parent Care Solution and also to two rather famous speakers and authors John Maxwell and Max Lucado, who don’t know me from Adam’s house cat, but I read them each and every day. Most days I am able to operate my life in the area of my strengths and gifts (I said most days). Staying in your lane, knowing what GOD has gifted you to do is what I call Your Unique Ability.

OK Andy, how do I find out what my Unique Ability is and why is it important to know and use my Unique Ability? QUESTION: Do you ever find yourself dreading going to the office or school or some other required assignment or duty you’ve committed to? Or do ever find yourself bored with your job/duty/assignment? Are you ever anxious about your job security or hoping that you won’t be called on to publicly teach, pray or

38 JULY 2011 ❘ Metro Christian Living

Let’s drill down a little deeper: Incompetent – low level of ability, no fun, routine, you are terrible at it.

Your feelings when in this level—confusion, stress, frustration.

Competent – Fairly good skill level but you remain average.

Your feelings when in this level—anxious, worry and fear of competition.

Excellent – High level of skill but no passion. Your feelings when in this level—boredom, no excitement.

Unique Ability – You love doing it, have superior ability doing it, people notice it and value it.

The more you do it the better you get at it.

People come just watch you do it and even ask for you to teach them how you do it.

Want to figure out your Unique Ability? Try this fun exercise. Read your life backwards. Huh? Go back in time. Think back to your first job, back to college days, and then back to high school, then all the way back when you were a kid. What really turned your crank? Rang your bell?

Made you laugh? Gave you goose pimples?

What could you spend hours and hours doing? Try to recapture your old passion and enthusiasm. Find the things in your life, job, church, family that fit you and ‘“Ta Da” you’re on your way to finding Your Unique Ability.

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Wimberly and Associates are Financial Advisors and business/life coaches. Call 601-982-8000 or contact Hilliary@thediscoveryprocess.com or Wendy@thediscoveryprocess.com

by MARILYN TINNIN

➺

living my call

DR. SAM GORE HONORS VETERANS If a picture is worth a thousand words, then Dr. Sam Gore’s sculpture is worth much more. The 83 year-old legend epitomizes the words “Christian artist.” He says, “I am accountable as an artist to my Creator for stewardship of life, gift, career and concept of Art.” Dr. Gore served as Chairman of the Mississippi College Art Department for 59 years, and although he no longer has that title, it is impossible to call him “retired.”

His latest work in progress is a commission from the City of Clinton to create a Veteran’s Tribute which will be located at the Clinton Visitor Center on Pinehaven Road. The seven and a half foot bronze masterpiece, “Fallen Comrade,” is scheduled to be unveiled on Veteran’s Day in November, 2012 and will be dedicated to all Clinton veterans.

The soldiers depicted represent two hometown Clinton boys, lifelong friends who joined the Marines right out of high school. Joe Albritton and Homer Ainsworth were called up during the Korean conflict. When Homer was killed, Joe carried his friend’s body through enemy lines determined to have him buried at home.

Dr. Gore is a perfectionist. The detail in this partially finished work is amazing. The life-like outline of the human form, straining beneath the weight of his buddy is a moving reminder of the sacrifice, honor, and courage of our military heroes.

When the clay sculpture is finished, Dr. Gore will enclose it in a telephone-booth kind of custom made structure, pack it in dry ice, and transport it by truck to the Lugar Foundry near Memphis. There are several more steps in the process called Bronze Casting. The statue is expected to weigh about 1500 pounds when complete.

How many hours will Dr. Gore have put in

Dr. Sam Gore spends hours in the each day in the heat molding the clay and being sure that every detail is exactly life-like.

by the time the completed statue takes its place beside the Visitor’s Center?

He has no idea. “I don’t count hours,” he says in his softspoken drawl. “Some of the hours I spend just thinking.”

The Veteran’s Tribute Committee, chaired by Mayor Rosemary Aultman and Mrs. Jacque Tharp are raising $40,000 for the project.

Contributions are tax deductible. Donations can be given to honor a veteran or an active military person. A recognition plaque will list all who make a contribution of $500 or more.

Contact Jacque Tharp at 601 946 7484 for additional information. Y metrochristianliving.com ❘ JULY 2011 39

➺family focus

by WAYNE BARBER

Your Vacation, Friend or Enemy?

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veryone needs a friend who encourages their Christian walk, sows into their family and helps them with financial wisdom. A vacation should be a friend that helps with all of the above. However, it is often quite the opposite.

Let’s look at faith building first. This year I had the opportunity to visit the Smithsonian Museum in D.C. One of the first sights was a film room where children were encouraged to hug their “relatives” (apes) molded randomly onto the benches in the room while watching a movie on evolution. Now while my relatives are not perfect, I have none that resemble apes. This same year we visited the Creation Museum in Petersburg, Kentucky. There I saw parents exposing their children to the truth of God’s Word in the most well done (scientifically and biblically) museum I have seen in our nation. Similarly this year we visited with the Christian Commission in Gettysburg with John Wega and his family to learn truth about Christian history. There there was Russ Miller of Creation Ministries who showed us the proof of the Biblical account of Creation and Flood at the Grand Canyon. A wise parent can creatively use a vacation to build the faith of their children and grandchildren.

Next, let’s think about how good a friend your vacation is to your

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family. Even though in my youth we took a couple of big expensive vacations, one all the way to California, these are not great memories. My brother and I agree that the best memories are the many weeks spent at Roosevelt State Park (40 miles from home) in a cabin with our family and no TV, but lost of time fishing, visiting with other families and eating fresh caught fish on the porch.

Polling my own four kids about vacation memories it was not the shows in Branson that cost $200 for a family of six but the $75.00 all day canoe trip down the Buffalo River was their best memory. Neither was it costly tickets to Six Flags or Disney World that were the highlights of vacations, but again the outdoor activities where we had fun together. It was not the super expensive hotels, but the laughs about the “resort” Dad got a bargain on, which for obvious reasons will not be in the next issue of Condé Nast travels.

Then consider what financial wisdom is your family learning from their family vacations. Are they learning how to enjoy what they can afford? Are they learning “it is more blessed to give than receive?” Think about a mission vacation with other families to another nation or just to a place in our own state or nation where people need help. My brother just took his grandchildren on a mission church building project this year. At ages nine and thirteen, they can’t wait to go back next year. Think how many people go on vacations they can’t afford, really don’t enjoy and have a little or no benefit to their faith, walk, or their family only to come home and have to spend the next year working hard to pay off “the trip.”

Know anyone like that?

A little creative thinking, some advice from wise families, memories from the past and prayerful planning could help you find a friendly vacation, one that builds your family’s love for each other and our creation and Savior, without financial stress or waste. Y Wayne Barber is founder of Purpose Driven Tours, a Jackson based motor coach tour company, bringing adults from 10 states and 100 towns together for life changing tours of the U.S. He is a graduate of Jackson Public Schools, MS College and has earned his DTIS certificate from Purdue University.

legal advice

by WILLIAM B. HOWELL

The Problem with SHORTCUTS ome people like shortcuts. It makes them feel smart. That is, when the shortcut works. But some shortcuts not only don’t work, but can leave you worse than before. Not a very good feeling. And that is often true when trying to get your assets to your children after you are gone. By way of example: friends of mine told me the other day that a “financial person” had advised them to name beneficiaries on all their investments and life insurance, including using a P.O.D. (“Payable on Death”) designation on all checking and savings accounts and CDs. And there was an added comment: “We were told not to put our assets into a Living Trust.” But there was no explanation as to why not. Very interesting.

So what’s wrong with that suggestion of just naming a beneficiary? It may work. But the problem we see so often is that when the time comes for your adult child to receive the asset (after your death), the child may then be under the threat of a lawsuit, a divorce, or even have been forced into bankruptcy. Then the asset you wanted them to have may instead go to some stranger who is their creditor, or even to their exspouse and his or her new spouse. Is that really

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what you want? I doubt it.

And then there is the situation in which your child has unfortunately become addicted to drugs or alcohol, and is unable to manage his or her finances effectively, or possibly not even hold a job. Would their inheritance last them very long under those circumstances? And what about the adult child who works hard, is sober and industrious, but spends more each month than he or she earns (maybe with the help of a spouse with similar tendencies)?

Instead of just giving your assets blindly and unconditionally based on some future event (such as your death) with no protection for what the situation of your beneficiary may be at that time, you could instead easily have the asset pass through your Living Trust in which you have added a “spendthrift” provision to protect the inheritance from the possibility of loss at the time you child is to take the asset. The purpose of the spendthrift provision is to allow the asset (whatever it may be) to be held by the Trustee of your Living Trust and not distributed to your heir if at the time a distribution is to be made the heir is faced with one of these situations which may threaten loss of the asset. There are very few

exceptions to the protection provided by a good spendthrift provision in your Living Trust. Of course you may include a similar provision in a Last Will and Testament, but it then results in what is called a testamentary trust, and this testamentary trust will only come into existence as a part of the probate of your Will in the Chancery Court.

How long may the Trustee hold the asset in the Living Trust under this protective provision? The best expression is one you have heard most of your life: “Until the coast is clear.” Until the danger has passed.

There is one more consideration that weighs heavily against just naming a child as a beneficiary: what if at the time you pass away and the asset is to be given to your child, he or she is no longer living? It is entirely possible that you may not be able to make such a change in beneficiary at the time such becomes necessary. In some arrangements the asset will pass to the estate of your child, and that could result in it going to your child’s surviving spouse, maybe even bypassing your grandchildren. Regardless of how tempting a quick “shortcut” plan may be, avoid it if you can.

And your family will thank you for it. Y

You have worked hard for it.

WHY THROW IT AWAY? We are all living longer. But we are not all going to be in good health, or aware of our families, or both. Then what happens? Someone has to take over. The question is: Will this be someone you chose? And will it be outside of court or in court? The same with the distribution of your assets after you pass away: In court or out of court? The choice is yours. What about protecting your assets from lawsuits, or a child’s inheritance from a divorce? And will most of your hard-earned savings go to the nursing home? Or have you planned? Here are a few ideas for you to consider:

Living Trust – Allows the person you choose to take over for you in the event of your incapacity, without any court involvement. At your death the person you have chosen makes the distribution of your assets the way you have instructed in your Living Trust, and to do so promptly, inexpensively and privately, without going through probate in the court.

Asset Protection – Lawsuits are filed every day. If you get sued, are your assets protected? They can be, and probably should be.

Also, the divorce rate has never been higher than it is today. Will your child’s divorce cause them to lose half of what you leave them after you are gone? Not if you plan now. The level of protection (or not) is up to you.

Nursing Home Planning – Don’t qualify for long term care insurance, or can’t fit it in your budget? You don’t have to spend everything that you have in order to become eligible for nursing home benefits. There are legal and ethical ways for you to save well over half of your assets in most cases, even if you are already in the nursing home.

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National Academy of Elder Law Attorneys metrochristianliving.com ❘ JULY 2011 41

➺this is my story

by BRENDA GAIL FOSTER

The Light at the End of the Tunnel God gave this story to me as an example for those who have suffered extreme pain: the pain of losing a loved one—a spouse or a child unexpectedly; the knowledge of finding out that your child has been horrifically raped by someone you have trusted and loved; or something else just as devastatingly difficult.

Life in this world is very, very difficult and we are not promised that things will always be fine. For that reason, I am going to share my little story with you in the hope that it will help your heart to heal.

A devastating incident is like going into a tunnel. Out of nowhere, there appears a very awful event, which propels you into a very dark tunnel quickly. The road through the tunnel may seem dark, difficult and long, but as you progress through the tunnel, in the distance there is the slightest glimmer of a dim light. As you continue to walk, the light gradually becomes brighter and brighter and bigger and bigger—until the exit of the tunnel is very near. You can see the bright sunshine streaming in and soon, as you leave your dark place, the tunnel is behind you and you are in the warmth and bright lights of the glorious sunshine. Healing is a process. Healing takes time.

A dark tunnel appears in our lives sometimes, but there is always an end to the tunnel if we keep walking toward the light and don’t stop going forward. Healing is a process. I repeat this to you” Healing is a process. Keep walking. Don’t stop walking. Don’t look back, except to remember that you are an over comer of the darkness. Remember, you are an over comer and with your overcoming, there is renewed strength, responsibility, and empowerment to do something that will make a difference in the lives of others like you.

Somewhere, sometime, there will be someone who needs a mentor, a leader, or a friend to take their hand and walk with them through the dark tunnel in their own life. Be strong. Be good to yourself. Be good and kind to others.

Remember the darkness, only because you love the light. We are all in a battle for our lives, but

Summit Recovery Ministries Jeffrey “Bryan” Hickman, LPC Licensed Professional Counselor Individual Counseling Couples and Family Counseling Addiction Counseling Mood and Anxiety Disturbances Compulsive Disorders Men’s Issues Faith Based Counseling

I initially utilize motivational and behavioral based approaches in counseling, but will employ other methodologies as clients need them. Spiritual Health is the core necessity for a mentally healthy individual and is a primary emphasis to me personally as well as in my practice. My clients have a high success rate applying techniques in blending spiritual health and clinically proven practices. jeffrey.hickman76@gmail.com 513 Keywood Circle • Flowood, MS 39232 (601) 933-1136 Office • (601) 906-0224 Cell 42 JULY 2011 ❘ Metro Christian Living

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we are overcomes and we will survive the dark times, because we have seen—and we do know (all too well) what glorious light means to us all.

You, oh God, keep my lamp burning: my God can turn darkness into light. Psalm 18:28

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Brenda Gail Foster is the Family Advocate at the Mississippi children’s Advocacy Center, a non-profit organization serving children who have been physically or sexually abused, suffered neglect, or are witnesses to violence. She works with the families while the forensic interviewers work with children. She also has begun a support group for non-offending caregivers. She dedicates this story to them and to all others who are suffering from heartache in the hopes that God will touch their souls and restore them to wholeness.

education connection

by AUBREY PRINCE

Prep Women’s Basketball Team Headed to Guatemala he Bible is very clear lesson of “team” and to “deny self” that if you focus your starts taking shape and it’s been heart on God in great to watch w the girls grow everything you do, He will through it all when they’re involved transform you into a person in something bigger than that stands out in the world. themselves.

Amanda Hatch fits this mold, a Soon the reality of living with young woman who is Guatemalan host families under the interested in the things of God direction of local missionaries, for her life and her family plus eating the local food and interacting she happened to be pretty with townspeople will tie talented on the basketball everything together for the young court, first at Leake Academy ladies. Coach Hatch is excited to and then at Mississippi see how this year’s participants will College. Now in her fourth exhibit a stronger understanding of year at Jackson Prep and “service” in their lives. In addition, second as Prep’s Head an attitude of spiritual boldness Women’s Basketball coach, comes to the surface for many and From left back: Head Coach Amanda Hatch, Clint Hatch, Sidney Lampton, Emily Amanda is sharing with her she’s watching to see the impact of Russell, Laurel Bane, Olivia McKinley, Evans Horsely, Laura Lee Smith, Assistant team the understanding that a Coach Laurie Wyatt, Adam Wyatt; Front: Elizabeth Wade, Maison Lowery, Ann the trip play out over the upcoming Walton Stringer walk with Christ is not only for season and school year.

Sundays. It’s played out in On a personal note, one of the everyday life, on and off the team members, Maison Lowery is court, when you’re alone or the youngest daughter of Mack and with others in this country or abroad. most is way beyond anything they’ve ever done Melissa Lowery. Melissa worked for me right Following the example set by the Prep Boy’s and it is a great opportunity to learn more about when she was just out of college and it’s been a Basketball team, juniors and seniors from the what it means to truly trust God. true blessing to see her grow in stature with women’s squad will go on their second short In preparation for the trip, each team Christ and become a Godly example to the next term mission trip to Guatemala this month. member has had to earn the money needed to generation. Parenting is never easy but the Wearing uniforms that read “Embajadores del fund everything. Coach Hatch said “This is the reward is great. And the reward is not over yet, Deportes” (Sports Ambassadors), the girls will first step for the girls to learn that a walk with one day they will hear, “Well done good and have the opportunity to be just that and share Christ will cost them and involve effort!” They faithful!” Y the love of Christ through sports camps, team quickly start to recognize though that this new Aubrey Prince is the President of clinics and visits to orphanages. At least once focus not only pays off with a deeper Immerseme, a firm dedicated to during the week each young woman will be able relationship with Christ, it also creates a unique Advancing your Message at to share her personal testimony in front of large bond between each of them that could never be Immerseme.com groups using an interpreter. The experience for achieved in the gym. Coach Hatch says the

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metrochristianliving.com ❘ JULY 2011 43

➺rave reviews BOOKS

MUSIC

Susan’s PICKS Reviewed by Susan E. Richardson Summer is here with vacations and Vacation Bible School. Long days can mean cookouts and camping or extra time at home. Younger children may appreciate new books to spark thought and creativity. Visit Mama Bear, Little Cub, and the rest of the family at the North Pole with Lisa Tawn Bergren’s God Gave us the World and then explore further with The Dragon and the Turtle Go On Safari by Donita K. Paul and Evangeline Denmark.

When Little Cub visits the “Bears Around the World” exhibit, she is astonished to learn that bears live in other places and have different colored fur. Why, she asks, don’t all bears live in the snow and have white fur? Mama Bear gently explains that God designed different kinds of places and bears to show how big and creative He is. God cares for His world and we should, too.

Move from Polar bears to the African plains with Padraig the dragon and his friend Roger the turtle. Their overnight campout begins with food and fun, but scary noises allow their imaginations to run wild. By working together, the two encourage each other and reach their goal of spending the whole night outside.

The illustration style in each title matches the story tone well.

Either book makes a good starting point for parental discussion or play experiences. Have your own backyard safari or pretend to visit bears around the world then expand on the life lessons built in to the plot.

Susan E. Richardson is a writer, critique reader, and former Christian retailer with a passion for meeting people’s needs through the written word. You can reach her through her website www.nextlevelcritiques.com.

“I Believe” by Judahseed Three friends were enlisted as a worship team in their small Mississippi hometown back in 2001. They discovered such harmony (pardon the pun) in their friendship, values, and, yes, their music that it was clear from the start there was something bigger than Wednesday night church going on here. Van, Mike, and Russ evolved into a three man band called Judahseed, and their word of mouth reviews spread all around. Before long they were getting requests far beyond the city limits of Crystal Springs.

Their first album, released in 2010, is a compilation of ten original songs, all written by the trio and, as Russ says, “all about Jesus.”

Their sound is their own, but if I had to make a comparison I would say they remind me of Alabama…with a gospel twist and a touch of Blues. It’s hard to pick a favorite in the mix, but I will tell you all of them are going to make their way to my ipod for frequent shuffle.

Judahseed was nominated for “New Artists of the Year” in 2010 by the Inspirational Country Music awards. Russ explains that although they did not win, they did not lose either. “When you’re spreading the gospel, winning or losing has no place.”

You can find out more about Judahseed at www.Judahseed.com or by e-mailing Russ at Russ@judahseed.com. Y

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events calendar

July 11-17 Get your nine irons out and start practicing you swing because it is that time of year again. The Viking Classic, named as “Best of” at PGA Tour Tournament Advisory Council Meetings, is coming to the Annandale Golf Club in Madison. For tickets and information call 601-898-4653 or visit www.vikingclassic.com

MIZE July 15-16 Watermelons are in season and what better way to enjoy the flavors of summer than at the Mississippi Watermelon Festival located in downtown Mize at City Park. Watermelon seed-spitting contest, greased watermelon race and watermelon eating contest are just a few of the activities planned for the day. For additional information visit www.mswatermelonfestival.com

RIDGELAND July 11 & 18 Indian Cycle at 677 S. Pear Orchard will be the meeting place for their Group

will be a great way to support local businesses while enjoying a family outing. For more information, call 601359-1159.

JACKSON

July 16 What better way to cool off than with a visit to the The Jackson Zoo’s Ice Cream Safari. Visit the animals and enjoy “animal flavored” ice cream, such as Chinchilla Vanilla, Beary Cherry, and Cheetah Chip cookie Dough. For more information call 601-352-2580 Y

Every Saturday in July 8:00 a.m. -2:00 p.m.

The Greater Belhaven Market in conjunction with the Mississippi Farmer’s Market is the place to find the freshest vegetables, local art and interesting jewelry all under one roof. The market

WHAT’S GOING ON? Headline for this The New Testament Missionary Baptist Church is located on Holmes Avenue in the Georgetown community of Jackson where all the signs of blight and poverty cover the landscape. Dr. Paul Braddy has pastored at New Testament for eight years and he has a great desire to restore hope and bring healing to the neighborhood.

The congregation recently purchased a large vacant building across the street from the church. The abandoned building had become an “unsafe haven to the criminal elements” and “a source of fear to the neighborhood.” What once housed the Triple C Body Shop is going to be transformed into a community center providing day care for seniors and children, GED classes, tutoring, and a food pantry. There will also be a community room that can be used for meetings, receptions, and faith-based activities.

On May 21, the church hosted a daylong event called “Take Back Our Community.”

The event began with a parade and included food, entertainment, speeches, and children’s activities.

Dr. Braddy and the New Testament members are committed to demonstrating the power of the gospel to the Georgetown community. Y

metrochristianliving.com ❘ JULY 2011 45

JULY 2011

MADISON

Bike Ride. The fun and exercise begins at 6:00 p.m. and is geared towards the recreational cycler to the competitive. For additional information call 601-956-8383

➺quips & quotes

ADVERTISING INDEX

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Cut out the scriptures and quotes and place them around your home for daily encouragement!

✂

“Behold, I am coming soon! My reward is with me, and I will give to everyone according to what he has done. I am the Alpha and the Omega, the First and the Last, the Beginning and the End.” – Revelation 22:12-13

“Where liberty dwells, there is my country.”

– Benjamin Franklin

“All Scripture is God-breathed and is useful for teaching, rebuking, correcting and training in righteousness so that the man of God may be thoroughly equipped for every good work.”

– 2 Timothy 3:16-17

“How great are his signs, how mighty his wonders! His kingdom is an eternal kingdom; his dominion endures from generation to generation.”

“Freedom is never given, it is won.”

– Unknown

– Daniel 4:3

Liberty means responsibility. That is why most men dread it.

– George Bernard Shaw

Caseville Manor 24/7 Private Care House k Nurse owned and operated k Background check available k Private Room/Bath 3482 Hwy. 550 West • Wesson, Mississippi

Quiet country setting near Homochitto National Forest NURSE OR CNA ON DUTY 24 HOURS NURSE ON CALL 24 HOURS

601-823-0922 PRIVATE PAY ONLY!

NORTH STATE ANIMAL & BIRD HOSPITAL 5208 North State Street • Jackson, MS 39206

601-982-8261 Dr. Adrian Whittington Dr. Jeb Cade Dr. Melissa McLendon OFFICE HOURS: Monday-Friday: 7:30 am - 6:00 pm Saturday: 8:00 am - 12:00 pm Sunday: Boarding only 5:00 pm - 6:00 pm

Boarding & Grooming Services Available

46 JULY 2011 ❘ Metro Christian Living

“You can't expect abundance to work in just one direction. If the tide only came in we would all drown.”

– Unknown

“You have to love a nation that celebrates its independence every July 4, not with a parade of guns, tanks, and soldiers who file by the White House in a show of strength and muscle, but with family picnics where kids throw Frisbees, the potato salad gets iffy, and the flies die from happiness. You may think you have overeaten, but it is patriotism.”

– Erma Bombeck

ADVERTISER

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A+ Tutoring ..................................................15 Alternative & Disputes Resolution ..............23 Belhaven University......................................36 Belhaven Graduate & Online Program .......39 Biaggi’s .........................................................34 Brenda Travis Sitter Service .........................46 Butler Snow ....................................................7 Callaway’s Yard & Garden............................13 Canton Academy .........................................39 Caseyville Manor..........................................46 Christ Covenant School ...............................19 Clinton Chamber of Commerce ..................10 CMMC ............................................................4 Dr. McMasters ..............................................44 Easely Amused.............................................42 East Lakeland OBGYN.................................17 Energy Insulation..........................................40 Environment Masters ...................................47 Eye Care Professionals.................................48 Farm Bureau Insurance ................................23 First Presbyterian Day School......................32 French Camp................................................37 Fresh-Way Produce ......................................37 GI Associates..................................................9 Grantham Poole CPAs .................................19 Highland Village ...........................................37 Inflatable Kingdom.......................................37 Jackson Academy School ..............................2 Jackson Heart Clinic.....................................19 Jackson Preparatory School ........................23 Janie Pillow Counselor.................................17 Jeffrey Hickman............................................42 Lifeway Christian Stores...............................23 Maine’s Best Kept Secret.............................23 Miskelly’s.........................................................3 Mississippi Craft Center...............................32 North State Animal Hospital........................46 Odyssey Hospice..........................................20 Persnickety Kitchens ....................................11 Phil Bryant.......................................................7 Regions Bank................................................15 Sitters, LLC ...................................................39 Star 93.5 .......................................................47 Stegall Imagery ............................................43 Summit Counseling......................................42 Sunnybrook Estates........................................2 Suzanne Russell, LPC ...................................35 Tate Reeves ..................................................13 Tinnin Imports ................................................5 William B. Howell .........................................41 Woman’s Hospital ........................................10 Wright & Ferguson Funeral Home ..............19 Written in Stone, LLC...................................34 For more information on our advertisers visit www.metrochristianliving.com

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g n o S t h g i l t Spo ay.... of the d

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www.star93fm.com metrochristianliving.com ❘ JULY 2011 47