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2 • THE JOURNEY • DECEMBER2013
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{This has to be my favorite Christmas picture that I will most likely cherish forever. I love my babies being babies; seeing them at this age. Their innocent giggles and laughter bring a happiness to my heart that makes me want to freeze time!} -Stephanie
DEC2013
&
burlap besties HANDMADE WITH LOVE
A Child’s Heart
Holiday Madness
Fashion Holiday Party Dresses UNDER
$50
On the Cover:
Chancey Sanders cover photo by Morgan Due
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tress or joy?!?!?! I am divided. I love all of the memories my family creates during the holidays, but wow, is it go, go, go! Holidays or no holidays, this is what life is always like for our family of 6. I can not sit down or blink for an instant or I will be late to something or might forget about an appointment all together. And the story is eerily similar to the day ins and day out at TJ MAG & CO. It gets rather hysterical after a while; now we are at the point that we don't laugh any more. We do not stress out. We do not cry. We simply wait for the curve ball and say, "Ok, well, that's unique. Or, oh, we have seen this one before." Regardless of the curve balls we get on a daily or monthly basis, we LOVE what we do! We love bringing the monthly magazine to your hands every month. TJMAG & CO is a very small, small team/ company with a huge job on our plate. It is such a blessing and a ministry to be doing what we do. We love bringing life to the every day people and
stories that you may not know. As the end of 2013 draws near, I'd like to take the time to say thank you to each one of you. Thank you for reading the magazine and breathing life into this monthly publication. Thank you to each and every one of my partners who put in the extremely long hours of blood, sweat, and tears to turn a blob of documents, files, and ideas into a beautiful masterpiece month after month. Thank you to the advertisers who trust and rely on us to spread the message of your business. It is an honor to do what we do and we thank you for giving us the opportunity to share a message worth sharing. Merry Christmas and Happy New Year!
Stephanie oliver
president
Miss Sanders has been dancing since the tender age of 3. When she was 5, her family moved to Lufkin and she began dancing at the Academy of Gymnastics. Chancey has been on Ballet Company for 10 years, Diva Spirit for 2 years, and the Dance Team for 6 years. Outside of the Academy, she has been a school cheerleader for 5 years, a member of National Honor Society, and Youth Coordinator for Haiti Missions at FUMC. Sanders plans to attend Abilene Christian University and major in Art. Chancey says, "This definitely has not been the easiest thing that I've done. There was a lot of hard work that needed to be put in to come out where I am now, but it was all so worth it! It is such an honor to dance as Sugar Plum Fairy in this year's Nutcracker, and I just can't wait to perform! Putting on the costume the other day was simply surreal because there have been so many talented ballerinas that have danced in that very costume, and I get the privilege of wearing it and playing the Sugar Plum Fairy."
13 YOUR HOME 14 18 20 22 24
Home Tour: CASA Tour of Homes Design Tips: Deck the Halls of Your Home in Holiday Cheer Tree Trimming: Tips to Decorate Your Holiday Tree Burlap & Besties: Handmade with Love In the Kitchen: Slow Cooker Pizza Fondue
cover photo by Brittany McBrayer
27 YOUR COMMUNITY 28 34 36 38
EAST 63
Mission Statement: First Baptist Garrison In the News Giving Back: Living Water Equine Services Inspiring Woman: Patricia Heflin
41 YOUR LIFE 42 44 46 48
Something Abundant: Making a List & Checking It Twice Makeup Box: The Best of the Best Mascara Fashion: Holiday Party Dresses Under $50 Review
51 YOUR CHILD 52 54 56 58 60 61
Pretty Babies Creative Mom: Easy Ribbon Christmas Tree Applique At School: A Game Plan for Bullying A Child's Heart: Holiday Madness Look at Me Why I Love Being a Mom: Lia Frost
Tribute: Bill Harrison Christmas Memories: On Earth...Peace Angler of the Year: Darren Roberts Music Notes: The Crossmen Fishing Fun for Everyone: Patriots Challenge Championship Trophy Hunts: Trophy Room
64 66 70 72 74 76
CONTACT US: Mailing: PO Box 150537 | Lufkin, Texas 75915 Physical: 115 E. Shepherd | Lufkin, Texas 75901 936-634-7188 | advertise@tjmag.com facebook.com/tjmag twitter.com/tjmeast
president: Stephanie Oliver /// managing editor: Beth Johnson | editor@tjmag.com staff writer: Angie Nichols /// director of sales: Kim Iribarren | kim@tjmag.com layout and design: Macy Haffey /// event photographer: Lisa Crow | lisacrowphotography@gmail.com event photographer: Morgan Due | www.morgandue.com contributors: Melissa & Tiffani, Jessica Tinsley Bridges, Shanna Crew, Lia Frost, Sabrina Lumpkin, Angie Nichols, Shelly Slaton, Jason Soule, Mona Taylor, Aaron Wilson distribution: Lisa Crow, Janet Glover, Jarod Thompson
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home May the God of hope fill you with all joy and peace as you trust in Him, so that you may overflow with hope by the power of the Holy Spirit. Romans 15:13 14 home tour 18 design tips 20 tree trimming 22 burlap & besties 24 in the kitchen
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HOME TOUR
CASA TOUR OF HOMES
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ou don’t want to miss this year’s CASA Tour of Homes. Five families in the Lufkin community will graciously open up their homes to help you get into the Christmas spirit while supporting a worthwhile cause. As one of CASA of the Pines' (Court Appointed Special Advocates) primary fundraising events, proceeds from the evening will help hurting children in our area. Take a peek at each home below and mark your calendar to buy tickets for this cherished community tradition. For ticket information, contact the CASA office at 936.634.6725. This year’s tour is Thursday, December 5 and is dedicated to Courtney Shumway.
REYNOLDS HOME 8588 FM 1669 | Huntington | 75949
CREW HOME
SINCLAIR HOME
410 House St. | Lufkin | 75904
2181 FM 3258 | Lufkin | 75904
Shanna and Jeremy Crew, along with their children Devon-10, Weston-6, and Evangeline-3, invite you to tour their little bohemian cottage. The 1,800 square foot, 4 bedroom house was built in 1944 and backs up to Chambers Park. Much to their children’s delight, there is a gate in the backyard under a tree arch that gives access to the park. From the kitchen window you can glimpse the Chambers Park Rock house, where Shanna and Jeremy were married in a small ceremony on December 8, 2000.
Kasye and Kevin Sinclair invite you into their home in Hudson, Texas to celebrate the holidays. They recently purchased the 3400 sq ft, 4 bedrooms, 3 1/2 bathroom home on 8 acres in 2011 with the intentions of raising their children in a country setting. Living in Hudson for 14 years now, they have grown to love the community and made friends along the way.
Their house is all about fun, with an eclectic style of quirky colors and junk store finds. Shanna and Jeremy strive to make their environment inspiring and full of wonder where kids can explore, contribute, and participate. With a house full of little artists, Shanna often gives them free reign to pursue their ideas, which is how a hole dug in the back yard by their eldest two is now a thriving pond with a fountain, goldfish, and a turtle. Holidays are always over-the-top, with decorations in every available area. From painted sticks to paper bunting to vintage glass ornaments, even found objects are turned into items of holiday cheer. Their nativity scene usually has the addition of a dinosaur or a giraffe, while not Biblically correct, makes for an adventurous advent. You are invited to take a peek into the vintage 1976 Airstream Camper Shanna is in the process of restoring and visit their awardwinning Castle chicken coop to say hello to the most spoiled backyard chickens in East Texas.
Although the Sinclair’s roots are now firmly settled in Texas, their hearts still remain in Louisiana. Being born and raised in Louisiana, the Fleur-de-lis symbol is highly prevalent in their heritage and showcased in their home. The Fleur-de-lis was once used to represent the royal family of France. During those times, the three leaves were said to represent the three social classes: those who worked, those who fought, and those who prayed. Throughout their home and Christmas décor you will notice many Fleurs-de-lis. The Sinclairs have five uniquely decorated trees in the downstairs rooms. Don’t forget to look upstairs where the children have decorated in their own style including their dollhouse. Also enjoy the various nativities placed throughout each room. As much as the Sinclairs love the Christmas season, they remember the true reason for the season.
Steve and Shirley Reynolds are so excited to share their home with you during this Christmas Season! In 2012, they were blessed to build their dream home on the property where Shirley grew up in Huntington. Tex and Madalyn Allison, Shirley’s parents, purchased the property in 1960. They designed the layout of their home to take advantage of the breathtaking view of a site in front of an old sandstone quarry. Stones from this quarry were used to build the original stone fence at the front of the old Huntington High School, which has since been torn down. The family room features a 21’ ceiling with beautiful Canadian Cedar trusses, stained arched bookcases and a fabulous Austin Stone fireplace, which creates a wonderful location for their 10’ Christmas tree. The tree features over 2000 LED lights adorned with ornaments from their children’s activities and their travels. The stone fireplace makes for a great background for the five hand-embroidered Christmas stockings that were made by Shirley, starting with their first Christmas in 1980. During the Christmas holidays, the Reynolds’ home will be decorated with many festive decorations, but please don’t overlook the two nativity scenes which represent the true reason for the season. The nativity in the dining area features an olive wood Bible given to Shirley’s father by his mother in 1952. The other nativity, displayed in the master bedroom, is one of porcelain and has been lovingly collected over a 30 year period. In coming back to Shirley’s home place, the Reynolds are creating a home with that same sense of “family” for their children and future grandchildren; a place where they will look forward to visiting as much as they enjoyed visiting their grandparents’ places every holiday.
photography by Dawn Armstrong
KASSAW HOME ABNEY HOME 466 Jefferson | Lufkin | 75904 Come and visit the past, what the Abneys lovingly call the Abney Bed and Breakfast, built in 1898 by Dr. Edward Percy. The Abneys bought the estate in 1946 and have owned the property since. The home is overlooked by a gorgeous magnolia tree and two beautiful oaks. The front porch entrance invites visitors to experience the home’s southern charm and remember past Christmas days. Christmas season begins at the Abney home with the green lighted garland and red bows that Paul has mastered throughout the years. Paul and Louise hope you can walk down memory lane as you venture through their home and enjoy their reminiscence of what Christmas means to their family. Each room is decorated with a different theme and several Christmas trees will be throughout the house. Red birds will adorn the formal living area, and “the old timey” room will display some history about Abney & Sons Hardware. The dining room will exhibit their traditional tree and family stockings, and the den will feature nativity scenes. Elves will be dancing in “the blue room,” while cowboys sleep in “the gold room.”
210 Colonial Hill Dr. | Lufkin | 75901 Kim and Todd Kassaw invite you to enjoy the sights and sounds of the Christmas season at their traditional home located at 210 Colonial Hill Drive in Lufkin. Purchased by the Kassaws in 2009, this two-story colonial home has 4 bedrooms, 3 full bathrooms, 2 half-baths, a game room, den, dining room, kitchen with breakfast area and an outdoor snack bar overlooking the swimming pool. Kim is a Christmas enthusiast and has numerous themes and collections that she has expanded over several decades. She and Todd had a Christmas themed wedding 25 years ago, and many of the decorations used at their wedding have been incorporated in various areas around their home. Their favorite collections include Snowmen, German Nutcrackers and Mark Robert’s fairies. The couple decorates 8 trees with different themes and color schemes. Entering through the front door, you are greeted by a lighted garland filled with traditional oversized ornaments designed by Kim’s mother, Kathleen Brown. The trees and decorations throughout the living areas on the main floor are sure to put you in the Christmas spirit! Upstairs you will find 4 additional themed trees and a stair railing garland that glistens. Their son Tanner’s room is home to a sporting and hunting tree while their daughter, Katie, takes a more simplistic approach with a nature themed tree. As you exit out to the backyard, you will notice the bright accents of gold, chartreuse and red throughout the decorations found on the tables, walls and patio furniture.
L: CASA COMMITTEE / R: HOMEOWNERS
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by Sabrina Lumpkin, owner of Bellissima Home
DESIGN TIPS
DECK THE HALLS
of your home in
T
holiday cheer
ransitioning from fall decor to Christmas wonderland is a decorating lover’s dream! Just the thought of dressing up the home for this special holiday stirs childhood memories of hot cocoa, letters to Santa, the joys of those special family traditions and the way our own families decorated and dressed their homes throughout the years. Some enjoy decorating the same way every year and take comfort in that time honored tradition. Others love using some of the same decor year after year, but changing it up a bit and using items, both old and new, in different creative, crafty ways.
One flexible space in holiday decorating is the mantle. Themed mantels have always been popular in holiday home styling and create a decor statement that makes a great impact with minimal effort. Using collections such as snowmen, Santas, angels, or nutcrackers, along with craft materials such as gracefully woven Christmas lights and coordinating festive, wide ribbon, creates a magical mantle display. Weave the ribbon and lights through and around your collection for added effect of continuity.
as we are embracing distressed, natural and vintage styles. Nativity sets in metallic gold, silver and pewter finishes are perfect in various color schemes.
Styling a tabletop for the Christmas holiday can be as simple or elaborate as you wish. Establish your theme and color ensemble and let the creativity flow! The traditional Christmas colors of red, green, white, gold and silver are still favorites, but today’s trends include adding pops of bright color for whimsy and interest. A Christmas wreath laid on top of a large mirror is an easy beginning to a perfect holiday centerpiece. Place a large hurricane lantern candleholder in the center of the wreath for added height and dimension. Again, use your festive ribbon and weave it gracefully through your wreath and around your lantern in soft curls. Hurricane lanterns placed in groups or in a row down the center of a long table make a wonderful decor statement when filled with garland and luxurious, shiny ornaments or candles. Continue your tabletop theme with color coordinating napkins. Choose two napkins of different, yet coordinating colors for each setting. Place one on top of the other, roll together and tie with a beautiful wired ribbon. Wired ribbon is a decorator’s dream as it can be shaped and arranged as desired.
The themed Christmas tree is a fun trend in the holiday decorating industry. The ideas for a themed tree are vast and only limited to the imagination. Be creative by adorning your family’s Christmas tree to suit your family’s lifestyle and personality. Whimsical and fun or natural and serene, there are no limits here! One of the latest trends is to include a second tree in a children’s playroom or other area, decorated in whimsical decor for the little ones. Let those creative juices flow with this one and hang novelty ornaments such as sock monkeys and children’s toys. Place items among the branches such as favorite books.
Another tabletop decor favorite includes a timeless Nativity scene placed in the center of the table. Again, this is beautiful when placed atop a flat mirror. For a natural element, add pinecones, twigs, branches and berry vines, either real or artificial. This rustic style has trended upward in holiday styling over the last few years
Whether your design style this holiday is rustic and natural or traditional and full of classic charm, just remember a home decorated in love and warmth is its greatest feature.
Large canisters or containers, such as the oversized red metal set shown, are a wonderful decorating tool and another great centerpiece starter. The height and size are perfect for beautifully tied bows and shiny ornaments and garland spilling over the top.
A welcoming holiday styled staircase is a decorating opportunity not to be missed! Drape your staircase banisters with festive swags, ribbons and bows in pops of color or natural elements. Add ornaments of various heights and widths for dimension. If the bottom of your staircase is near the entryway of your home, this area is the perfect place to position a welcoming holiday statue such as a nutcracker or Santa figure!
Blessings and Merry Christmas!
Pictured Above: • "Oh Holy Night" Nativity • Tall Harper Red Metal Canisters- Set of 3 • Palmer Lantern • Marquis Silver Finish Scroll Mirror-Set of 2
Found at bellissimahome.com Sabrina Lumpkin is the creator and owner of Bellissima Home, www.bellissimahome.com, an online shopping experience offering hand selected, premium, designer inspired items for the home. Luxury you can afford!
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TREE TRIMMING
by Mona Taylor
tips to decorate your holiday tree
Mona lives in Lufkin and is blessed to be the mother of four loving children, and two precious sons in law. She’s a third grade teacher at Huntington Elementary School where she has taught for 16 years. Mona is scheduling appointments to decorate holiday trees and can be contacted by messaging her on Facebook.
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There’s nothing that sings the holiday spirit quite like the twinkling tree lights seen from the windows of homes during the Christmas season. The time is upon us to begin thinking about decorating your holiday tree. Here are a couple of ideas to this task easier.
Real or artificial?
Garland and Ribbon
When selecting a tree, real or artificial, choose a tree that will fit the room well. Consider the various shapes of trees and the location where you would like to place the tree in the room. When choosing a real tree, inspect it outside of the wrapping before taking it home. A room with small spaces may require a more slender tree as opposed to a fuller tree. Always remember to consider the height of the space.
Garland and ribbon can make your tree look more put together. Remember to wrap the garland loosely to avoid the too tight “sausage” look. Wired edge ribbon is particularly nice when decorating a tree, as well as wide deco mesh and burlap. Anchoring the ribbon a couple of times throughout each layer with a small piece of floral wire will help hold it in place. This is especially the case with a real tree; the longer the tree stands, the more the branches tend to settle and droop.
Let the Lights Shine! Lights set the stage for the rest of the decorations. Most artificial trees are now prelit. When considering lights for your tree, there are “warm” toned and “cool” toned lights, mini lights and lights that have flashing or strobe functions. When purchasing lights for your tree, you should use 1 yard of lights (3 feet) to every vertical foot of tree. For example, you would need 27 feet of lights for a tree that is nine feet tall. Starting with the lowest layer of branches, wrap the lights from the trunk of the tree out to the tip of the branch and back, repeating across that layer of branches while working up the tree. ALWAYS check the lights before installing on your tree and DO SAVE the fuse packages that come in the box. Sometimes a strand of lights can be easily salvaged by replacing the tiny fuse.
Accessorize! Whether going with a theme tree such as “Fishing,” “Family Vacation Memories,” “The Nutcracker,” “Snowmen” or “Rustic Woodland Critters,” ornaments can be as pricey or as inexpensive as you want. Checking end of season sales and planning next year’s tree theme ahead of time is a good way to save money on ornaments. You may want a different theme for every room. A “Spicy Jalapeno” tree or a “Gingerbread Man” tree is fun for the kitchen, while kid’s rooms are a great place to tie in their favorite sports, activities or interests. Begin hanging the larger or centrally themed ornaments first then fill in with the medium and small ornaments. Vary the color and shape of ornaments throughout your tree, and be careful not to neglect those hard to reach areas.
Make sure there is a tree on which the kids can display their favorite keepsake ornaments. With little ones, always allow them to help decorate the tree as much as possible. Those precious little helpers won’t always be little, and their being able to contribute is so important to them.
Dress it up! Add a decorative tree skirt or scrunch fabric under your tree to provide a covering for the trunk and a place to set those pretty packages. You can carry your theme further by coordinating your wrapping to include elements of your theme. If you have a “Beach” themed tree, wrap your gifts in brown craft paper, tie with natural burlap and include a seashell on each package.
Top it off! Add the topper to your tree, anchoring it with a piece of f loral wire so that it doesn’t tip. Sprigs of tree branches and twiggy accessories added to the top make a big statement for your tree. Whether big or small, traditional or wildly contemporary, make your tree a beautiful addition to your home this holiday season.
BURLAP & BESTIES
Handmade with
W
love
ho doesn’t love Christmas, the most wonderful time of the year?! Music, family, celebrating the birth of our Savior, Christmas treats, gaining 5-10 extra pounds, it’s all so magical!
Our f irst project is a great way to display your family’s yearly Christmas picture. It’s simple and can also be inexpensive! Call us hoarders, but many of these supplies we already had on hand. Supplies: large frame (3’ X 2’), 9-12 smaller frames either 5"x7" or 4"x6" (Tif got hers at the dollar store!), Christmas wrapping paper, spray adhesive, matte mod podge, spray paint for smaller frames if desired, free Christmas printables, adhesive Velcro strips, hot glue. 1. Start by cutting your Christmas paper to cover the back of your frame.
FUN PARTY TIP: We love personalizing name cards at everyone’s place setting during dinner parties. It’s such a nice touch! Also, who doesn’t love a party favor to take home? One easy way to do both is creating these fun, personalized snow globes! Supplies: 8oz Baby food jar, matte spray paint, small Christmas decoration, Epsom salt, hot glue, jute or ribbon, paper for tag, marker or stickers. 1. Remove the lid to your jar and spray paint it. 2. Attach your decoration (we used a nutcracker) in the bottom of the jar with a dot of hot glue to hold him in place. 3. Add a few spoonfuls of Epsom salt, and once your lid is dry place it on tight. 4. Wrap with jute or other desired ribbon and attach personalized tag. Each guest will feel so special having their own place at your table and will love taking these snow globes home! Note: Remind them to remove the salt if they plan on storing these in a hot attic after the holiday season is over.
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2. Attach the paper using spray adhesive. Starting at one end, spray a small area and attach part of the paper. Gradually work your way down attaching a small section at a time until all of your paper is attached. 3. Mod podge over the entire surface and allow to dry completely. Repeat with another coat of mod podge, if desired. 4. Spray paint your smaller frames and allow them to dr y completely. We love the Rustoleum gold spray paint from Wal-Mart. It’s cheap, dries really fast and has a great f inish. 5. Fill your frames with your pictures and f ill the empty frames that don’t have pictures yet with great free printables we found online. You can f ind free printables on Pinterest or Google by searching “Free Christmas Chalkboard printables” or other search terms you desire (if you would like the link to the same ones we used just email us!). 6. Cut your Velcro strips about 2 inches, take off the paper backing and apply your hot glue directly to the adhesive to give your frames some reinforcement, then place your Velcro to the back of your smaller frames. 7. Arrange your small frames on your larger frame and attach with hot glue, as well. A small ruler, pencil, and level come in handy at this stage.
by Melissa & Tiffani
Our second project is a Christmas play on a pallet sign. We love the look of pallet signs, and they are so inexpensive and easy to make! You just need a little muscle, or a husband, to get the pallet boards ready to use.
Our final project is one of our favorites, and what grandparent wouldn’t love this special ornament? We love capturing our children’s handprint every chance we get.
Supplies: pallet boards, electric sander (if desired), matte white and red paint, stencils, nails and hammer or screws and drill, heavy duty picture hanging hardware (if desired).
Supplies: ball ornament (we did some in red and blue), white acrylic paint, small sponge brush, black and orange markers, jute or ribbon, empty egg carton, depending on the age of your child you may want to entice your best friend to come over and help!!
1. Detach pallet boards from a pallet, how many boards you take off will depend on how long your pallet is. 2. Cut your pallet boards into the following dimensions: 5”, 10”, 12”, 14”, 16” and 18”. 3. Remove one of the thicker boards in the center of your pallet piece to use as the piece to which you will mount your other boards. This will need to be approximately 29” long. Pallet boards vary in width, so arrange your strips before you cut your back piece to make sure the length is right for you. 4. Use an electric sander, if desired, to sand some of the imperfections out of the wood. 5. Paint wood white and allow to dry completely. 6. Lay out your strips of wood in descending order and stencil on letters with your red paint. 7. If you want to be able to hang your sign, attach a heavy duty picture hanging hardware to the back of your 29” board. 8. Once everything is dry, nail or screw on your strips to the 29” long piece of wood. 9. Use your paint to touch up over your nails/screws.
Melissa is a housewife who loves her husband and son, Ben and Ty, more than anything else on earth. In a previous life, she was a CPA. Her passion for serving Jesus took her and Ben to Africa for two years where, among other things, she learned she can never pack too many crafting supplies. If you want to see a happy girl, give Melissa an old piece of furniture and a paintbrush then stand back and watch the magic happen.
1. Wipe off your ornament with a damp cloth to get it clean and lint free and let it dry. 2. Take your child’s hand and place it on your ornament to get an idea of where you want their palm to go so that you mainly see just the fingers, the bigger the hand the lower on the ball. We recommend that you either put your child in old clothes or no clothes before you start painting! 3. Brush on a thick, even coat of paint onto one child’s hand. 4. Turn your child’s hand facing palm up and place your ornament in their hand and help them place each finger on the ball. We did this when Cullen was 16 months old and it took a number of balls to get it right!! 5. Place your ornament upside down in your egg carton and allow it dry completely before moving on to the next step. 6. Once your paint is dry, get your markers and turn those sweet little fingers into little snowmen. Make sure to write the name and date on your ornament, as well!! 7. Add a little piece of jute or ribbon and your ornament is ready to go on the tree.
Tiffani Brantner is a part-time nurse and student, a constant crafter, party-thrower, "idea-comer-upper", and a richly rewarded wife and mother to Jeff and Cullen. Call her to come and get your old junk, she LOVES it! She'll turn it into something beautiful, create a theme, throw a party around it, and invite you as the guest of honor. You can reach Tiffani day or night at tifandmel@gmail.com.
IN THE KITCHEN
recipe courtesy of GetCrocked.com
SLOW COO KER
PIZZA FONDUE Ingredients: 1 lb. lean ground beef 2 -16oz.cans pizza sauce with cheese 8 oz. grated cheddar cheese 8 oz. grated mozzarella cheese 1 tsp. dried oregano 1/2 tsp. fennel seed (optional) 1 T. cornstarch additional “toppings” of your choice (ex: mushrooms, onions, peppers) tortilla chips, soft tortillas or french bread
Directions: 1. Brown beef in a skillet and drain to remove fat. 2. Combine beef , pizza sauce, and remaining ingredients including your choice of “toppings” except tortilla chips in a 2-3 quart slow cooker. 3. Cover & Crock on LOW for 2-3 hours. (Optional: Top with a few dollops of ricotta cheese the last 30 minutes of cooking.) 4. Serve with tortilla chips, soft tortillas or pieces of french bread for dipping. Happy Crocking!
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PLACES & FACES
Scare on the Square
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community And the angel said unto them, 'Fear not: Behold I bring you good tidings of great joy which will be to all people, Unto you is born this day a Savior which is Christ the Lord.' Luke 2:11 28 mission statement 34 in the news 36 giving back 38 inspiring woman
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MISSION STATEMENT
FIRST BAPTIST GARRISON Loving, Living, Leading...Colossians 1:27
J
eremy Pruitt and his wife, Delanie, accepted the Lord’s call to First Baptist Church Garrison in April of this year. As pastor, Jeremy shares his desire for the gospel to advance throughout the local church, community, nation, and into all the world. He and Delanie are witnessing a growing desire among the congregation to do more mission work both at home and across the globe. On September 20 - 27th, Delanie led a team of local FBC Garrison members (Rial and Cindy Taylor and Christie Stokes) and two others from Alaska on a short term mission to Nicaragua. The Garrison team then joined with other teams from churches across the United States at the base operation of Sonny Holland Evangelism Outreach or SHEO International in Masatepe, Nicaragua. The group organized and coordinated medical clinics, distributed food, and celebrated the Day of the Bible during the seven day trip. SHEO International medical clinics are set up in area churches for several hours to minister and serve
local children and families. Each person who comes to the clinic is able to obtain quality health care and even have prescriptions the doctor prescribes filled on-site free of charge. Patients and family have an opportunity to hear the gospel of Jesus, and each family is given a bag of rice, corn, and beans to take home. FBC Garrison’s team also visited the local garbage dump and landfill. There is a community of people who live at the location in order to salvage items from the garbage to survive. The mission teams distributed hot meals, dry food bags, shoes and clothes to the families. Additionally, they assisted in the weekly feeding program at the SHEO International facility. The ministry feeds about 500 children and elderly each week. FBC Garrison supplied over 3000 meals through the food they gave. They distributed clothes, shoes and hygiene products, as well. The Day of the Bible is a Nicaraguan national holiday celebrating the Word of God. Each city hosts a large event including singing, dancing, and preaching. “Our team brought in the keynote speaker, Dr. Jerry Spencer, for the local holiday festivities,” shares Pruitt.
Delanie shares, “I’ve been to both India and Nicaragua, have done stateside mission work, organized a number of outreach projects, and lead mission committees. I have a heart to see the lost saved. This was my ninth trip to Nicaragua with S.H.E.O International, but this trip was one of the best. The team was of one mind and wanted to do anything to reach the people of Nicaragua. We worked hard and shared the love of Christ with all we saw. The trip was well-organized and the leadership knew what needed to be done,” she adds. Delanie says FBC Garrison’s prayer for this trip is two-fold. “In Nicaragua we hope and pray the seeds of the gospel will grow into souls being saved, and that those who were saved will grow, mature and lead others to Christ. Our prayer for FBC Garrison is that this will be the catalyst to be more active in missions abroad. We hope that by giving members these opportunities, we will become a church that not only gives to missions, but goes on mission. We plan to make these types of opportunities available several times a year with various organizations and to continue our outreach efforts in Garrison, Nacogdoches county, Texas and the U.S.” For more information visit First Baptist Garrison on line. To contact S.H.E.O. International – Nicaragua P. O. Box 265, Clinton, LA, 70722; (225) 683-8389; sheointl@aol.com.
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PLACES & FACES
2013 Cattle Baron's Gala
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IN THE NEWS
1. The Texas Association of School Boards (TASB) elected its 2013-14 off icers during the Association’s recent annual Delegate Assembly and Convention in Dallas. Luf kin ISD Board Member, Andra Self, will serve as president-elect. 2. Woodland Heights Medical Center welcomes Joel Rivera Rodriguez, M.D. to Luf kin. Dr. Rivera Rodriguez is fluent in English and Spanish and is now accepting new patients at his practice, Woodland Heights Internal Medicine located at 10 Medical Center Blvd., Suite B. For more information or to make an appointment, call 936-634-8300.
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3. KINDRED, a Nacogdoches Christian Rock Band wins ETX Music Awards 2013 Christian Artist of the Year. L-R: Cash Hamilton, rhythm guitarist; Dustin Herres, bass guitar; Guiseppe Joey Cefalu, lead guitar; Jacob Hines, drums; Sabrina Toole, vocalist.
4. Senior Courtney Aten was honored by the Student Spotlight of the month at the Luf kin ISD School Board Meeting for her achievement of National Merit Semi-f inalist. L -R: Don Muhlbach, Scott Skelton, Andra Self, Andro Branch, Courtney Aten, Stanley New, Allyson Langston and Dr. Keven Ellis.
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5. Luf kin Community Partners will be hosting their 3rd annual Reindeer Run to be held on Saturday, December 14, 2013 at the Ellen Trout Zoo. The Kids Fun Run begins at 8:00am, and the 5K race begins at 8:30am. For more information, visit www.reindeerrunluf kin.com. 6. Nacogdoches County Chamber of Commerce held a ribbon cutting ceremony for Tutor Doctor, 1329 N. University Dr., Ste. D5, 936-560-HELP(4357), www.tutordoctorofnacogdoches.com. Owners Misty and Tim Owens welcomed sponsors, Chamber members and guests. 7. Nacogdoches County Chamber of Commerce held a ribbon cutting ceremony for the new lighted batting cages at the Youth Baseball Complex made possible by Urgent Doc, 4909 North St., Ste. 202, 936 -560-9898, urgentdoc.com. Dr. Savitha Balakrishna and Dr. Michael Iverson with special guest San Francisco Giants Brandon Belt welcomed sponsors, Chamber members and guests.
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8. Woodland Heights Medical Center recently recognized the Food and Nutrition Services department in honor of Healthcare Foodservice Workers Week. Pictured: Briggitte Powell, Sherrie McSpadden, Bobbie Scott, Marisela Guillen, Linda Nash, Anita Fuller, Romeka Johnson, Katherine Blackburn, Ester Trotty, Jean Simmons, Latonya Austin, Angela Mack, Eddie Loyd, Broderick Lynch, and Angela Larson. Not pictured: Bob Stage, Ranjani Reddy, and Marta Villela. 9. The Junior League of Lufkin named Crystal Thomas as October’s Volunteer of the Month. Photo attached: Crystal Thomas, October VOM (right) Pictured with Michelle Briley, VP of Membership (left) and Emily Parks, JLL President (center).
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10. The Junior League of Luf kin awarded Tyler Pavlic the October Pat on the Back Award for her hard work and dedication to making the 2014 JLL Spring Market, Market with a Mission, a success. Photo attached: Tyler Pavlic (right) September POB with Michelle Briley, VP of Membership and Emily Parks, JLL President. 11. The Junior League of Luf kin is preparing for its 10th Annual Spring Market, which will be held Thursday, March 27 - Saturday, March 29, 2014. Spring Market is the largest fundraiser for the organization and supports the Junior League’s mission of improving the community. Vendor applications are being
34 • THE JOURNEY • DECEMBER2013
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accepted until January 3, 2014. Go to www.juniorleagueof luf kin.org/spring-market for more information and to download the application, or call Kim Graham at 936-208-3012.
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12. Nacogdoches County Chamber of Commerce held a ribbon cutting ceremony for rheumatologist Rogelio Garcia-Cavazos, M.D., 4848 N.E. Stallings Dr., Ste. 205, (936) 568-3364. Dr. Garcia welcomed Chamber members, sponsors and guests. 13. Nacogdoches County Chamber of Commerce held a ribbon cutting ceremony for Newk’s Eatery, 114 North Village Blvd. in North Village Market, (936) 559-8000, newks.com. Owner Cassandra Stokes welcomed Chamber members, sponsors and guests. 14. Nacogdoches County Chamber of Commerce held a ribbon cutting ceremony for Dollheads (a Paul Mitchell focus salon), 406 E. Main St, (936) 371-2617, www. facebook.com/DollheadsSalon. Owner Holly Crawford welcomed sponsors, Chamber members and guests.
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15. Nacogdoches County Chamber of Commerce held a ribbon cutting ceremony for Cheveyo Graphics, 204 Mackechney St., #14, (936) 622-0922, www.cheveyographics.com. Owner Justin Newcomb welcomed Chamber members, sponsors and guests. 16. Nacogdoches County Chamber of Commerce held a ribbon cutting ceremony for Texas Size Bling, 102 North St., (936) 559-5268, www.texasbling.com. Owners Lisa and Rusty Garner welcomed sponsors, Chamber members and guests.
17. Join us for Christmas Cookie Decorating at the Naranjo Museum, sponsored by Grandough Baking Company. Saturday, December 7, 2013 10:00am-4:00pm at the Naranjo Museum of Natural History. $2 per cookie or 5 cookies for $5. For more information, please call (936)-639-3466 or visit www.facebook.com/naranjomuseum or http://www.naranjomuseum.org/. 18. Junior Will Kirby was honored by the Student Spotlight of the month at the Luf kin ISD School Board Meeting for becoming an Eagle Scout with the Boy Scouts of America. L-R: Scott Skelton, Don Muhlbach, Andra Self, Andro Branch, Will Kirby, Stanley New, Allyson Langston and Dr. Keven Ellis. 19. Senior Will Chance was honored by the Student Spotlight of the month at the Luf kin ISD School Board Meeting for his achievement of National Merit Semi-finalist. L-R: Scott Skelton, Don Muhlbach, Andra Self, Andro Branch, (on behalf of Will Chance, his parents Rebecca Chance and Jeff Chance), Stanley New, Allyson Langston and Dr. Keven Ellis.
tjmag.com • 35
out of foster care and are adopted and dealing with past emotional and physical abuses, from single parent homes, or physically handicapped.
GIVING BACK
Carpenter teaches all her students, “There is a chain of command. The horses need to give us two eyes, looking to their rider for instruction and direction. Likewise, our eyes are to be focused on the Lord, where we get our instruction and direction.”
Living Water Equine Services Providing a positive environment for today’s youth
J
oy Carpenter is the founder of Living Water Equine Services located near Lufkin. The non-profit was established in 2008 to teach life skills to children ages five to sixteen through a Christ centered horsemanship program. Carpenter says, “We teach leadership. If you are not leading, who is? And what or who are you following?” Joy, or “Mrs. Joy” as the children call her, runs the programs with a quiet but bold hand. She is unashamed in the God she professes and has a passion for both the children and horses to which she devotes her life. Living Water Equine serves children and families of East Texas through a number of programs throughout the year. During the school year, Living Water teaches life skills through a weekly horsemanship program. Participants are required to help in portions of the teaching process and sometimes prepare short documentation on what they learned and give a presentation on it in front of an audience. They are also required to journal at the end of each session reflecting on what they learned and achieved or what they could have done differently. Each session is one time a week for ninety minutes. About every three months, they have an awards ceremony for the participants who achieved the goals they set. This
Joy says she sees God’s hand has been on her life to bring her to where she is now. “When I was four years old, my dad moved us from Houston to Lufkin and bought us our first horse. In the second grade, I wrote a paper about my future plans to live on a ranch with horses and lots of kids. Then about five years ago, God started opening doors for this ministry. Submitting to God and His plans for me has brought such fulfillment. This ministry is all about helping others find the place where God wants them to be. The horses and the archery are the tools we use.”
Their Christ centered summer camps offer instruction in horsemanship, archery, solar, Dutch oven, and campfire cooking, arts, crafts, swimming, team building games, and fishing. During the summer programs, older youth, who have advanced to a greater level of skill and maturity through the program, help with younger participants. This takes the youth leaders to an even higher level in their leadership, team building, and communication skills.
The best evidence of God’s work through Living Water Equine is the students whose lives are changed for the better. Joy recalls the first day a particular girl came to her. When she got out of the car, she wore a black hoodie, dressed gothic, and was downcast. She said she was atheist, that Jesus did not exist. Joy used Scripture to tell her of God’s plan for her to accept Jesus. She was resistant and very defiant. “I felt so defeated,” Joy said. Through Joy’s intentional teaching with horses, this young girl eventually saw the love, grace and forgiveness that Jesus offers. Joy says, “Two weeks later she told her mom that she wanted to be baptized, and last Sunday I attended her baptismal service.”
Most of Living Water Equine’s participants are youth who love horses and want to learn how to care for and ride them. A number of the participants are at-risk youth, diagnosed autistic, ADD/HD, come
One can easily see that Joy Carpenter joyfully serves a humble Carpenter from Nazareth. Together they have built a f irm foundation of faith and love for many children.
program helps the youth with anger management, fear and trust issues, setting goals, self-control, responsibility, focus, creative thinking, and relating to others.
For more information on weekly programs, summer camps, or to book special events such as birthday parties, cook-outs, mother-daughter riding parties, horse family days, or Mommy and me events (special arrangements and pricing), contact: Living Water Equine Services 11056 FM 326 Lufkin, Texas 75901 (936)-824-2656/(936)-635-8356. You may also help by making financial donations to the address above. Living Water Equine Services is in need of covering a large arena and wants to add a barn with tack room, feed room, and three additional stalls, as well as a new roof or repairs to the existing barn. Any volunteer service or help is welcome.
tjmag.com • 37
INSPIRING WOMAN
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P AT R I C I A H E F L I N
atricia Heflin’s journey began far north of East Texas in Mishawaka, Indiana as the baby of a family of four children. She moved to Texas in 1975 with her first husband. In 1981, she married her soul mate, Wayne, and together they have four children. Although they brought 3 children into their marriage from the beginning, they all grew up under the same roof, so they consider themselves one big, happy family. Amanda is their youngest and the only daughter in their bunch. When Amanda was 16, she gave birth to a beautiful baby girl named Bailey. With the help of her parents, she finished high school and went to college at Stephen F. Austin where she earned her Bachelor’s of Science in Nursing as a Registered Nurse. A few months into her college career, she met a boy named Chad Clifton. They quickly fell in love, and they were married the semester before she graduated from SFA. In 2006, Amanda began working as a nurse at Nacogdoches Memorial
Hospital. Patricia and Wayne were enjoying life as empty-nesters and had just returned home from a motorcycle trip to Savannah, Georgia with 3 other couples. While she was away, Patricia discovered a spot on her breast and it hurt when she pressed on it. Wayne urged her to get it checked out. The night they returned home, Amanda came to visit her parents. Her mom explained her discovery and Amanda confirmed the urgency to seek a doctor’s advice. Amanda remembers, “As soon as I felt it, I immediately told her to make an appointment.” That following Wednesday, Amanda accompanied her mother to the doctor where they were told it was cancer. Amanda says, “I was shocked, because as a nurse I was expecting the doctor to biopsy it to see what it was.” The doctor continued that he was pretty sure it was cancer due to the rapid growth and shape of the tumor. Patricia, Amanda’s mom, broke down immediately. Amanda held it together to ask the doctor every question that she could think. Patricia explains, “I couldn’t get past the word ‘cancer.’ Telling Wayne
was one of the hardest things I’ve ever done. I couldn’t tell my sons; that was left to Amanda.” That night, the family gathered around their mom. Three grown sons, a daughter and a husband gathered around the woman that held their family together and mourned the peaceful, healthy life they had known. Surgery was set for Friday of the same week. Because Patricia had routine mammograms, doctors were able to determine that the sudden appearance of the tumor with this size and shape was most certain cancerous. Due to the size and location of the tumor, Patricia had a partial mastectomy and her lymph nodes were taken from her right side. Surgery went well and the pathology report revealed that while the tumor was malignant, the nodes were not involved. Her off icial diagnosis was stage III Medullary Carcinoma. Dr. Ravidran and doctors at MD Anderson developed a treatment protocol and Patricia underwent 6 rounds of AC chemo followed by 12 rounds of taxin and radiation.
Patricia also suffers from Lupus. Because of this, doctors at MD Anderson felt the best course of action was a full mastectomy instead of such intense radiation. They were afraid her chest would not heal from radiation due to complications with Lupus. Patricia remembers, “I was almost relieved with the decision, because I was afraid of the radiation.” Her treatment and surgery left Patricia more tired than she had ever been, and she felt she couldn’t go through with reconstructive surgery. She says, “I just didn’t think I could go through it. Most days it doesn’t bother me, but there are some days when I really want to dress up; I miss having them.” Throughout her mom’s treatment, Amanda was right by her side helping her as a daughter and nurse. She gave her mom weekly shots and changed her bandages after surgery. Amanda’s journey with her mom was heartbreaking, but her struggles did not end with her mom’s remission of cancer. After Amanda and Chad had been married a couple of years, they started trying to have a baby. They even visited fertility doctors, but after 6 years of marriage Amanda was still not able to get pregnant. Later during that sixth year of marriage, Amanda found Chad in the middle of
a massive heart attack. She performed CPR while her daughter, Bailey, dialed 911. Chad’s death was a shock to everyone and left Amanda a widow at the young age of 29.
hospital, but she knows her mom was by her each day. Amanda says, “My mom did so much for my family during this time. I can’t even imagine life without her, and I don’t want to.”
When she was 31, Amanda found love again. She married Bryan Livingston and was expecting their first baby, a daughter named Brooklyn. When Amanda was twentyseven weeks pregnant, she lost the baby. After delivery, Amanda became severely ill and was placed in ICU. The next day, she was life-flighted to Memorial Herman in Houston. After many days in the hospital, doctors diagnosed her with salmonella poisoning. She was on a ventilator for 9 days and almost lost her life numerous times during her hospitalization. Patricia explains, "It became really real to know what it is like to lose someone you love dearly. I'm sure I was just as scared of losing her then as she was of losing me to cancer." Amanda doesn’t remember much about being in the
Amanda is now back at work after being off for over 3 months. Patricia has been living life cancer free for 7 years. Every year she goes without the cancer reoccurring, the better chance she has of it not coming back at all. This family has seen more than their share of tragedy and suf fering, but they have learned the meaning of family and the art of walking beside each other during difficult times. Both Amanda and Patricia claim they would not be where they are today without the love and support of their family and close friends. Amanda says, “God has really touched our lives and taught us the importance of appreciating everything He has given to us.”
“God has really touched our lives and taught us the importance of appreciating everything He has given to us.”
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PLACES & FACES
Young Professional Network & Brookshire Brothers Wine Tasting
40 • THE JOURNEY • DECEMBER2013
YOU R
life Every good gift and every perfect gift is from above. James 1:17 42 something abundant 44 makeup box 46 fashion 48 review
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SOMETHING ABUNDANT
by Angie Nichols
Making a List and Checking it Twice ‘Tis the season to be... busy.
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ou likely have a “to do” list that looks something like:
• I want my kids to want less and learn to give more.
• Add that darling Pinterest idea to holiday decor.
• I want to love and listen instead of bark orders and buy stuff.
• Pose for the perfect family Christmas card photo. • Volunteer at kids’ school parties.
Those quiet thoughts of soul broke my heart. So I advised a couple of dear friends, on the verge of tears over their full plates, to take a day to:
• Bake the traditional family favorite recipes.
• Stay home and wear pajamas.
• Purchase the perfect gifts, trendy paper, and coordinating ribbon.
• Get in the Word and pray. • Take a nap. • Read a book for fun. I had a hard time going to sleep the night after doling out said counsel thinking of my own Angie’s list. Undone details danced like un-baked sugar plums over my head. While I gave a good speech and offered sound counsel to my frazzled friends, God watched over my actions.
• Don’t forget the teacher, hair stylist, and the mail carrier! In the last week, I heard frazzled friends list off statements like: • I am so busy! • I can’t seem to get it all in! • I’ve got too much to do! • I am so tired! • I’ve lost my mind! I also heard many of the same busy women express a list of quiet heartfelt desires like: • I have a real and heavy desire to slow down. • I want this season to mean something.
The next morning I had my noble ‘to do’ list in hand, but my heart wasn’t in it. Instead the still small voice of my first Love invited me to take my own advice. He asked, “Will you let Me love you? May I tend to you?” “Will you take a break from your normal routine for Me?” • How ridiculous is Love that only requests a chance to serve you for His birthday? • How beautiful is the grace of the Most High God who loves so lavishly, He wants only to wash your weary feet? • How scandalous is this Lord who desires to spend “the season to be jolly” wholly with you, His beloved? So instead of working on my list, I decided to take the time I had set aside for other tasks and I: • Took a long hot bath in the middle of the day. • Read my Bible.
• Engaged in sweet talk with Jesus. • Read a few chapters in a couple of good books. Then I drove to get Mycah from school with a coat over my pajamas. We snuggled in my bed and took a nap until my man called and said he was on his way home from work. We made a fire, lit some candles, ate dinner, laughed and read together. After Mycah went to bed, Chris and I enjoyed the quiet and then…well, I’ll just say I finally got out of my pajamas. Today, I find Jesus blessing the work of my hands and multiplying the time one might feel tempted to see as “lost.” The Son of Man doesn’t allow lost. He came to seek and to save what was lost (Luke 19:10). Don’t be deceived into believing He will not restore and generously replenish what you give to Him (Luke 6:38 ). A quiet spirit is absolutely necessary to complete the activities of greatest worth; and nothing hinders the hidden heavenly forces, through which we receive our greatest successes, as a spirit of unrest and anxiety (Cowman). Busy friend, if you’ve taken the time to read this article, I pray you will take the counsel of a recovering frazzled friend as a gift wrapped in the perfect paper with darling coordinated ribbon: • Care less about what “they” think and more about what He sees. • Whiz right past “merry” and “nice” to touch the hem of Holy. • Sacrifice multitude expectations to please the glorious One. • Be still and know Emmanuel. Learn to let Him love you. When Jesus spoke again to the people, he said, “I am the light of the world. Whoever follows me will never walk in darkness, but will have the light of life.” John 8:12
Angie Nichols is the founder of Something Abundant Ministries, serving women through worship and Biblical teaching and the author of Something Abundant: growing from a child of God to the bride of Christ. Her passion is for women to know the beauty of an abundant life knowing Christ as Bridegroom. She is married to Chris and they have one daughter, Mycah. For more information, to read more or book speaking events, visit: somethingabundantministries.org
MAKEUP BOX
a r a c s a m t s e b e h t f o t s e b E H T
ey el a sh es " I li ke m y a w a y! I co u ld f ly to fe el li ke ! c d r a m a ti T h ic k & , o th e rs h e d - Je ss ic a M ge s Im a E x p re ss iv e
rts e p x e e h t We asked heir TOP 2 to share t CHOICES MASCARA 44 • THE JOURNEY • DECEMBER2013
Ashley Conlon • Aveda Mosscara • Mascara by NovaLash
Amy Jo Looney, Merle Norman Luf kin • Merle Norman Ultra Thick Mascara • Merle Norman Wicked Lash Mascara Jessica Mothershed, Expressive Images • MAC Haute & Naughty • Femme Couture Monster Lash XXL
Kelley Smitherman, BareMinerals • Smashbox Hyperlash • BareMinerals Lash Domination
Raegan Williamson, Airbrush Artistry • Dior Blackout • MAC Zoom Lash
tjmag.com • 45
by Jessica Tinsley Bridges, Creator of jesslea.com
FASHION
holiday party dresses
under
$50
With party season just around the corner, it’s time to turn your attention to finding that perfect party dress, and this year there’s no need to blow your gift-giving budget. When it comes to party dresses, budget buys can still look stylish and festive. Here are 7 holiday dresses for celebrating the season in style for under $50.
9 $39o.9 g lo y
Lux ess Lace Dr JCP
9 $29.9 L o ong
Mossimront Tie Sleeve Ft Dress Shir Target
$44.99
$40
Labworks Ponte Peplum Dress Target
Danny & Nicole Sleeveless Colorblock Dress JCP
$29.99
Mossimo Asymmetrical Colorblock Dress Target
$29.94 ess
ank Dr Ponte Tbbie Red o R in Old Navy
$49&.9N9icole
Danny d Polka Pleate ress Dot D Target
Jessica (Jess) is a 28-year old brunette born and raised in Lufkin. She is in love with fashion and wearing high heels, even though she’s 5’10’’. She graduated from Stephen F. Austin with a Fashion Merchandising degree. She and her husband live in Houston with their 2 dogs, Bella and Bentley. She is an assistant buyer for a department store in Houston, Texas. She has her own fashion blog, Jess Lea where she shares her love for fashion on a budget.
photo by The Silhouette Studio
tjmag.com • 47
REVIEW
SUPPORT SMALL BUSINESS shop small • shop local
Cowboy Fringe Boots Available in Red, Tan, & Black. $120. Downtown Lufkin Pink Leopard Boutique.
Alison & Ivy Monogrammed Jewelry Give the most wanted gift of the season, a custom monogram jewelry piece. These gifts can be given in a necklace, ring, or earrings. Available at Beard Fine Jewelers.
Aveda limited edition gift sets Give Smiles. $19. /// Give Twinkling Eyes. $38. Available Downtown Lufkin at Bella Salon
Lilly Pulitzer Murfee scarf Famous for the beautiful & unique prints, this Lilly Pulitzer Murfee scarf is a cashmere & silk blend. Makes for a perfect gift. $118. Available at Macy May in Downtown Nacogdoches.
Ray Bans Sunglasses make the perfect gift for those hard to buy for teenagers. Pick a pair of Ray Bans or get a gift certificate for them to choose their own style. Available at Nacogdoches Eye Center.
48 • THE JOURNEY • DECEMBER2013
BABY BRACELET A treasured gift for all those little princesses in the house, "Daddy's girl" baby bracelet. $15. Available at Let Them Be Little Childrens Boutique, Downtown Lufkin
pillow One of a kind gifts like this pillow, perfect for every grandmother around! $35. Downtown Lufkin Twisted Sisters.
Butter London A brilliant lux gift this holiday season for your Bezzie Mates. 4 of our most coveted colours in the newly release fashion size, enclosed in the sleek Catwalk Clutch. Includes: Catwalk Clutch, Fashion Size: Queen Vic, Lady Muck, Yummy Mummy, & Teddy Girl. $39. Available at Makeup Junkies in Lufkin.
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PLACES & FACES
2013 Cattle Baron's Gala
50 • THE JOURNEY • DECEMBER2013
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child For to us a child is born, to us a son is given, and the government will be on his shoulders. And he will be called Wonderful Counselor, Mighty God, Everlasting Father, Prince of Peace. Isaiah 9:6 52 pretty babies 54 the creative mom 56 at school 58 a child’s heart 60 look at me 61 why i love being a mom
tjmag.com • 51
PRETTY BABIES 1. Penelope Danielle Amason. 7/8/13. Proud Parents: Cody & Roxana Amason. 2. Lilly Jaymes Hinson. 7/17/13. Proud Parents: Nick & Julie Hinson. Proud Grandparents: Mike & Jeanie Miles / Rod and Reba Squyers. 3. Bryson John. 8/10/13. Proud Parents: Justin & Beka Pope. Proud
Grandparents: Tony & Angee Owens / Marianne Scarborough / Johnny & Melissa Scarborough. 4. Bentlee Tye Kilgore. 9/25/13. Proud Parents: Rocky & Tina Kilgore (Huntington, TX). Proud Grandparents: Robert & Nancy Vick.. 5. Knox McCoy Martin. 7/18/2011. Proud Parents: Joshua & Brittny Martin. Proud Grandparents: Rhaeanne & Jerry Madden (Lufkin, TX) / Greg McMillon (Lufkin, TX) / Robbie & Jenny Martin (Nacogdoches, TX). 6. Lillian Grace Rodriguez. 5 months. Proud Parents: Markos & Jennifer Rodriguez (Huntington, TX). Proud Grandparents: Keith & Mary Stripling (Lufkin, TX) / Sergio & Cherrie Rodriguez (Lufkin, TX) / David Ivy (Nacogdoches, TX). E-mail Pretty Babies submissions to prettybabies@tjmag.com. Please include the information seen above. Submissions are free of charge.
tjmag.com • 53
THE CREATIVE MOM
by Shanna Crew
Easy Ribbon Christmas Tree applique.
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ast year my oldest daughter needed a Holiday outfit for a school program. At the last minute “What? There’s a play? Tonight? In 2 hours?” (as she hands me the note her teacher sent out last week) I realized her red shirt had a huge stain right in the front! With no time to find another shirt, I made a Christmas Tree applique and hot glued it onto the front. I know my seamstress grandmother--who meticulously taught me to sew--- is cringing as she reads this! If you wanted, you could certainly substitute stitching for all the glueing.
While making the demo, I though it might also work as a cute headband. 1. Cut triangle out of felt or fabric desired size. 2. Cut several pieces of ribbon. The length depends on the size tree, for example small tree (like in headband) I used ~2” cuts, for the shirt the ribbon was ~3.5”. I like to mix up patterns and ribbon width, but you can use one style ribbon if you prefer. 3. Fold the ribbon sections in half and add a tiny bit of hot glue, making a loop. Then, starting at the bottom of the triangle, glue loops in place. It’s easier if you do each outside loop first, then fill in the center. That way you can overlap in the middle and still have a clean outer edge. When you get to the very top loop, trim it to a point. 4. (Optional) Take a length of tulle or netting, 1-2” wide x ~24” long, and hot glue on back of triangle. I ruffled mine up a bit (it’s OK if it’s ugly, this won’t show). For the headband, I cut one more felt triangle and glued to the back (just to hide glued tulle). 5. Now, decorate your tree! Use bows, sequins, pom poms, bells, glitter. Just be sure it is securely glued. I also added a dot of hot glue underneath the ribbon loops to make them lay flat after I finished with the decorations. 6. You can either hand stitch your tree onto the shirt, or just hot glue. This can be hand washed and layed flat to dry, but honestly---I simply cut the tree off of the shirt and glue onto a new shirt the next year. They’ve likely gone up a size anyway! For the headband, I used sequin elastic and just measured then glued onto back of felt. You could also use knit or other stretchy fabric.
Shanna Crew left her job training astronauts at NASA to become a full time artist and mom. She is married to her high school sweetheart, Jeremy, who is a local attorney and co-founder of Big Thicket Brewery---Lufkin’s first craft brewery. They have 3 children: Devon, Weston, and Evangeline.
54 • THE JOURNEY • DECEMBER2013
tjmag.com • 55
by Shelly Slaton
AT SCHOOL
A Game Plan for Bullying:
I
A Parent’s Guide
have spent my adult life in the helping professions and have worked with children of all ages, from all walks of life, and with all types of gifts and challenges. Over the last seventeen years, I have been privileged to serve others in a variety of roles - teacher, school counselor, school administrator, and mental health therapist. Over the years, I have worked with children being bullied, those that do the bullying, those that encourage bullying, and those that are mere witnesses to bullying. Regardless of their role in the act, children are impacted by all roles of bullying.
away, avoiding the situation, and staying near adults and other kids. Another strategy includes teaching your child how to stand tall, look the person in the eye, speak in a calm clear voice, and say phrases like, “Stop bothering me,” “Yeah whatever,” or “Get away from me.” Focus on assertive behaviors and not retaliation.
What do parents need to know?
It is important to teach your child how to handle the role of the watcher, witnessing bullying. Again, consider your child’s personality when developing your game plan. Strategies include reporting to a trusted adult, being a friend to the person being bullied, and standing up to the bully.
The easiest way to think about bullying is along a continuum, with the bully on one end and the victim on the opposite end. Between these two points exists the encourager, the watcher, and the protector. Invariably, all our kids participate in bullying in one way or another, and regardless of the role, all kids need support. So, what do we do as parents?
If your child is assertive by nature and prone to take on the role as protector, develop a game plan to help your child stay safe in the situation and not to bully the bully. Teach your child that it is okay to tell the bully, “You are mean,” or “You are wrong,” but be careful to teach your child not to bully in return.
First, I think it is important to know the difference between unkind behavior, normal conflict, and bullying. Part of growing up is learning to get along with others. Let’s face it - kids can be cruel and speak without considering the consequences. Such as the little girl who tells her friend, “You are fat.” Although this is an unkind comment, it is not necessarily bullying. The child would feel remorse and would want to repair the relationship; whereas, bullying elicits little emotion from the bully. Bullying tends to be repetitive in nature and involves a power imbalance. Distinguishing between unkind behaviors and bullying can be difficult, but looking for patterns in behaviors, repetition, and emotional outcomes can help you.
If you suspect your child may be acting as a bully or an encourager of bullying, develop an action plan. Take time to consider the underlying motivation for the behavior. Is your child trying to fit in with a certain group? Is your child struggling in some way--making friends, maintaining grades, struggling with family issues? What are the interactions like between siblings? Consider your child’s natural personality traits. Children that are naturally aggressive, assertive, and competitive can be perceived as a bully. Confront the behavior and tell your child, “I would not let anyone hurt you, and I won’t allow you to hurt anyone else.” Help your child develop other behaviors and ways of coping.
Because all children will experience bullying in a multitude of roles—as bully, encourager, watcher, protector, or victim-throughout childhood, communication is key. Talk to your child daily and really listen! Ask questions that explore feelings and take the time to validate your child’s feelings. Listen for context of events, and if necessary, make notes of time, place, and people involved. Talk to your kids about empathy and teach them to think about how others feel. Communicate clear family expectations for how you expect your children to treat others. Praise your child for treating others with kindness and provide opportunities for your child to “practice” empathy. Part of communication is modeling. Through communication you will know your child’s peers and will be able to monitor your child’s social activities. When others talk to you about your child’s behavior, try to listen with an open heart to what others say and follow up with your child.
Regardless of the role played, as a parent, taking action and not allowing situations to escalate and drag on are important. If you feel you have made every effort on your own, do not hesitate to ask for help and support from other parents, school personnel or mental health professionals.
Developing a game plan will help your child feel confident and prepared. Take into consideration your child’s personality and use strategies that are a “fit” for your child. Teach your child to talk to you always and brainstorm a list of other trusted adults. Some easy strategies to teach your child include walking
Communicating, setting expectations, and developing a proactive game plan will help your child build the self-confidence to deal with unkind behavior and bullying. I believe it is crucial for us all to remember that our children are watching us! The next time you consider yelling at the driver that cuts you off, gossiping about a friend, or calling the umpire an idiot, just remember your child is watching you and learning empathy, compassion, and kindness from you! Shelly Slaton, MA, LPC-S Licensed Professional Counselor Supervisor (2013) Licensed Professional Counselor (2001) SBEC Certified School Superintendent (2013) SBEC Certified School Principal (2004) SBEC Certified School Counselor (1999) SBEC Certified Special Education Teacher (1996)
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by Jason Soule
A CHILD'S HEART
HOLIDAY MADNESS
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t is once again nearing Christmas and you know what that means! Tis the season to run around in a manic attempt to f it in every Christmas tradition that has ever been meaningful in your life while also being guilted by Pinterest into forming new and wildly creative traditions with your family. It is the time of year when we sing songs of peace on earth and good will toward men, but the only “Goodwill” we are thinking about is the place we will f ind a tacky Holiday sweater for the staff Christmas party. We attempt to cram meaningful moments with our children into the slivers of free space on our calendars, and then feel the
You may already be suffering from Holiday Madness if… You plan to prepare three different Turkeys for Christmas dinner because you can’t decide between recipes you saw on Pinterest. You find the perfect tuck-in gift for one person, so you feel obligated to buy eight additional tuck-in gifts to make it “fair” for everyone else. You put off paying your mortgage in order to “afford” Christmas. You compare calendars with your family to schedule a time to relax and drink hot cocoa together. While enjoying hot cocoa with your family you feel a burning urge to take a picture and document it on Instagram. You consider a “Gift Wrapping Evening” to be a fun family activity for your spouse and kids. You buy gifts for people you haven’t spoken to in a year. You are scheduled to attend more Christmas activities than there are days before Christmas. Fortunately, for many overloaded parents, the treatment for Holiday Madness is relatively simple. However, the first step to recovery is admitting that you have a problem. The root of this problem sprouts from a desire to make Christmas special. You have fond memories of Christmases which someone worked hard to make special. So you have reasoned that if a little special is good, a lot of special is better! Unfortunately, that is just not the truth.
need to display them on our Facebook walls as if they were hunting trophies. These are all unfortunate results of a common illness that is sweeping America. The illness begins with good intentions, but rapidly spins out of control. It is exacerbated by the increasing blitz of marketing and social media and weakens the defenses of the average person against wild fits of commercialism. Marriages are damaged, children are disillusioned, and when all has passed, families are left to navigate the wasteland of poor Christmas choices. It is called…Holiday Madness!
Here are a few things to keep in mind this Christmas season to help combat the symptoms of Holiday Madness. Kids Aren’t That Into It: Like everyone else, kids can be drawn into the frenzy of hyper-holiday-commercialism. But what they want more than anything is time to unwind. Ultimately, children are worn out by Christmas hype. Most kids would gladly forgo the latest designer gadget if it meant that mom and dad weren’t stressed and fighting about the mounting credit card bills. Forget About Getting: Because we live in the wealthiest nation during the most prosperous time in history, it is easy to take our lifestyles for granted. If you were to take a one minute walk from where you are standing right now, you would find someone who is struggling to make ends meet. Some may not have eaten today. Others are suffering through personal tragedy that is threatening to tear them apart. They need to know someone cares. They need to see that someone is ready to help. Use some of the creative energy that you planned for your family to meet someone else’s need. Make a plan with your family to creatively and abundantly bless that person. The memory will last much longer than a couple extra gifts under the tree ever would. It’s Not What We’ve Made It: Christmas was never meant to be more than celebration of Jesus Christ. Since Adam first sinned in the Garden of Eden, God had been hatching a plan to win us back from sin. This plan included the gift of Grace, God’s one and only son Jesus. The punishment that Jesus took in our place gives us hope that
one day, when our bodies wear out, our spirit will be united with God forever. That is the greatest gift of all. Nothing under a Christmas tree could ever compare to that. So as Christmas nears and you are preparing your turkeys, or wrapping the final tuck-in gifts, or adding up the credit card bill, don’t forget the reason we celebrate. And in a quiet moment as everyone sips their hot cocoa, take a moment to thank God for the true gifts in your life.
Jason has dedicated his life to teaching kids. During his career he has been a coach, an elementary teacher, a principal and is currently the kid’s pastor at Lufkin First Assembly. He speaks the language of kids and loves to see them grow in Christlike character. He is married to Karli, and they have three beautiful daughters, Haley, Abby, and Olivia. To see more of what he does, visit the KidWorks website at www.lufkinkids.org. You can also reach him by mail at jsoule@lufkin.org.
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LOOK AT ME
LOOK AT ME! brought to you by
Smoothie King of Lufkin 4505 S Medford Dr. (936) 632-5464
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1. The physical education department at Coston Elementary organized a non-perishable food drive for the month of October to help stock the food at the Family Crisis Center. Pictured: Mrs. Barnett (Physical Education) and our Cougar Pride students: Abelardo Villanueva, Gabriela Munoz, Gethsemany Sanchez, Joseph Mesa, Nicholas Shepherd, and Alyssa Willis.
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2. Grace Marshall won 3rd in Job Interview at the McGee Bend District Leadership FFA Contest at Stephen F. Austin State University on 11/4/13. 3. Lufkin High School FFA boys team placed 4th in Farm Skills team at the McGee Bend District Leadership FFA Contest at Stephen F. Austin State University on 11/4/13. L-R: Boys Team: Justin Snyder, Colton Hendrick, Jacob Wood, Luke Ross, Jamarius Woods, Jake Burran.
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4. Coston Elementary School’s Third Grade Outstanding Students for the first nine weeks include: Alana Blow, Susana Delapaz, Adriana Gonzalez, Abagail Morton, Freddy Naranjo, Myrna Ramirez, Hugo Ramos, Adrian Roman, Alondra Sanchez, Rayla Strickland, and Alejandro Vazquez.
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5. Coston Elementary School’s Fourth Grade Outstanding Students for the first nine weeks include: Brittni Brumble (not present), Brandon Cano, Marie Cardozo, Emmanuel Garcia, Melanie Garcia, Mia Guillen, Alejandra Herrera, Joseph Ibarra, Carmela Martinez, Victor Morales, Juan Rodriguez, and Katia Zamora.
6. Coston Elementary School’s Fifth Grade Outstanding Students for the first nine weeks include: Shelby Garrett, Alan Molina, Juanita Molina, Dianara Oseguera, Alexa Ramirez, Victor Rivera, Samantha Saenz, Nicholas Shepherd, Alyssa Willis, and Alicia Zavala. 7. Makayla and Raleigh Mahr. 8. Each nine weeks, students from Coston Elementary are chosen by their teachers as Outstanding Students. Jay Jackson State Farm Insurance generously provides a winner from each grade level with a new bicycle and a safety helmet. Third grader Alana Blow, fourth grader Brandon Cano and fifth grader Samantha Saenz each won a bicycle. Pictured with the students is Mr. Austin Thigpen representing Jay Jackson State Farm Insurance.
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9. Superintendent Dr. LaTonya Goffney with the Lufkin ISD School Board presented plaques of appreciation to three outstanding students for their accomplishments at the October Lufkin ISD School Board Meeting. Marie Nickle (top L) and Cody Carter (R) both received Commended Status on the National Merit Scholarship program, and Tanner Kassaw (bottom L) was recognized for becoming an Eagle Scout and receiving a scholarship from the Great American Rivalry Series for having the highest GPA on the football team.
WHY I LOVE BEING A MOM
L I A F R O ST
“Babies don’t keep..,” those words are so truthful and heartbreaking for any mother. This poem came to mind last week while I was going through my 3-yearold’s closet. While I was admiring each pretty outfit, many of them still with tags on them, preparing to fold and put them away for another lucky toddler, I thought to myself, “Why did I not let her wear this? Was I afraid of her getting cake icing on it at a birthday party or staining it with finger paints or juice at school?” I realized that I will never get to see her in some of these sweet dresses all because I was worried about the small stuff, the stuff that didn’t matter. That icing stain could have been a memory from her very first preschool friend’s birthday party and the finger paint stain could have been from the Mother’s Day picture she painted me earlier this year.
In August 2010, we were blessed with a precious 4 lb baby girl. Of course, I was I ecstatic about becoming a mother for the first time, but also I now had my own real life baby doll to put pretty dresses on and big bows in her hair. When you are expecting or have a newborn, you have people constantly tell you, “Enjoy every minute; it goes by fast!” Even after only three years of being a mom, I see how true those words are. In the beginning, you wonder how you will survive the first few months of sleepless nights, the first time they get sick, the crawling, the walking, and the potty training, but you make it through. Then you are overwhelmed with a feeling of sadness as you realize how fast time flew by. Now it’s time to send them to preschool, and then before you know it, the time will come to send them off to college; if that is the path they choose. Becoming a mother has taught me many things, but I am beginning to see the most important thing of them all is that life is short. I find myself sometimes rushing Allie Jo when we are running errands or walking outside saying, “Come on baby, mama has stuff to do, and we need to get dinner started.” I am learning to slow down and realize that maybe she is admiring that tall tree in the yard, the big clouds in the sky, or smiling at the elderly lady that we passed in the grocery store. Even though it is my job to teach her, I am finding that she is teaching me just as well. My little Allie Jo has taught me to slow down and savor these moments as they are happening around us, and for that I am forever grateful.
life is too short r not to wea your fancy clothes!
So, now I think I will pull out one of Allie Jo’s fancy dresses, take her to our favorite bakery to get the prettiest cupcakes and go sit in the grass and admire all of God’s beauty around us. After all, life is too short not to wear your fancy clothes! tjmag.com • 61
PLACES & FACES
St. Cyprian's Fall Festival
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TRIBUTE
BILL HARRISON: A
round these pineywood parts of East Texas, deer season and Massingill’s Meat Market just can’t be separated. Massingill’s is a full service, old fashioned meat market that has served its customers since 1954, a leader in custom cut wild game processing. The heart and soul of the business and his own blood family, Bill Harrison, the owner of Massingill’s for the past 36 years, personified excellence in service and friendship. But most of all, Mr. Harrison was all about one thing, family.
encouraged the owners of Massingill’s in Luf kin to add custom deer processing to their services. In 1977, Bill and Jan made the leap of faith to buy the original Massingill’s Meat Market from B.G. and Mollie Massingill. They operated the original business location, as well as a second market on Highway 69 South until 1985. At that time, the two business locations were closed and the Harrisons built the existing location, a bigger facility still located at Highway 69 North at Idlewood in Luf kin.
Opening day dawned this year as it does every year. Men, women, and children anticipated the thrill of a hunt and the pride of unloading a prize kill. However, this year on opening day the family and employees of Bill Harrison couldn’t help feel the sting of a deep and profound loss. Their leader and hero died as the result of a tragic motorcycle accident on June 29. The summer’s fresh grief lingered into the fall days, and many who knew Bill found it impossible to imagine a deer season without him.
Through the years Harrison built a lasting legacy within the four walls of his home and his business. Bill and Jan were married 55 years and had two children, a son and a daughter. Donnie Harrison of Tyler and Linda (Harrison) Tinsley of Huntington are now grown with children of their own. Bill often boasted of his three grandchildren, Rachel, Andrew and Brian, always taking a big interest in their lives and activities.
Bill Harrison was born in 1940 in Beaumont, Texas. He married the love of his life, Jan, in May of 1958. Bill spent the early part of his career working for several meat processors, learning about deer processing in Houston markets. Bill 64 • THE JOURNEY • DECEMBER2013
Wife Jan said Bill’s passing has been a loss like none of them have ever experienced. “His greatest legacy is his love for me, his children, and his grandchildren. We were the most important part of his life. He was a good family man,” says Mrs. Harrison. “Dad always said family was everything. He was all about mom and us kids. We always knew we came
FA MILY L EG ACY first, and everybody in the family knew we could count on him,” daughter Linda shared through tears. However, Bill’s commitment to family extended beyond his own relatives. “He never met a stranger. Dad was a father figure to so many, and he went out of his way to help people. If they had troubled backgrounds, he wanted to help them better themselves,” adds Linda. “People came to the funeral and told us he did things for them that we never even knew about.” Bill Harrison had so many friends in business and treated everyone like family. When asked about the single most important impact Harrison had upon him personally, Chris Ward, a long time employee, current operator, and future owner of Massingill’s paused long and heavy. Speaking through tears, Ward credited Mr. Harrison as more than a mentor saying, “He treated me like a dad would treat a son. A lot of kids take for granted what a dad teaches them. I had a good foundation to begin with, and Bill taught me so much about business and life in general. He told me when I first came out here to be sure people accepted me, and then he stayed with me every day to be sure that happened. We ran into a lot of things out here--hurricanes, tornados. We rebuilt it and we were stronger than ever.”
Chris says the current deer season can be described easily in one word, “Busy! We are very blessed. We’ve been up in numbers this season and are working extra hard to accommodate. Things are going strong and we are trying to continue Bill’s legacy. We miss him.” Linda says her dad never failed to see the good side of things. “He believed in living life to its fullest and was always planning the next adventure.” The Harrison family wants to see the Massingill’s business continue to succeed and honor the lessons Bill taught by the way he lived his life. After all, it has been a part of the community for over 50 years in friendly service and reliable quality. “Taking care of customers was Bill’s priority for this place,” says Ward. “As a small business in a small community, we know them by their f irst names. We share life with them and know their families. You don’t get that very often these days. For most businesses, it is just a job, but this business is more like family, and Bill taught us all about the importance of that.”
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CHRISTMAS MEMORIES
I
f my childhood Christmas memories had a soundtrack it would include Nat King Cole crooning, “The Christmas Song,” and a German boys’ choir singing Christmas carols (my mother is German). Those nostalgic tunes would include the cracks and pops of the needle playing those records back in the early 70’s. The room would be lit only with the glow of the Christmas tree lights as I rocked back and forth in that uncomfortable, vinyl rocking chair anxiously waiting for Christmas day. I’m grateful for a childhood Christmas with sights and sounds that I can still remember. I want similar things for my children as well, but I want more. I want my children to know why. Why do we sing? Why do we celebrate? Why was Jesus born? Why did He have to die? We begin f inding answers to these questions at that angelic Baby announcement given in that dark field to those fearful, but faithful shepherds. 66 • THE JOURNEY • DECEMBER2013
“Glory to God in the highest, and on earth peace among those with whom he is pleased!” (Luke 2:14, ESV) I love this text because of the simultaneous activity going on in heaven and earth. First and foremost, we are directed vertically to “the highest” where we see the ultimate purpose in all God does – bringing glory to Himself! Then, we’re directed horizontally to the “earth” to see the greatest work that brings God the greatest glory; that is, His good pleasure in bringing peace to those who were once at war with their Maker. You see, we are all far off and separated because of our sin. We’re even called enemies of God (Romans 5:10; Colossians 1:21). Christ’s death brings the sinner near through faith, from a relationship of war to one of worship. “But now in Christ Jesus you who once were far off have been brought near by the blood of Christ. For he himself is our peace… and has broken down in his f lesh the dividing wall of hostility…” (Ephesians 2:13-14, ESV)
by Aaron Wilson
On Earth...Peace Oh what good news, indeed! This is why we love singing Wesley’s words, “Hark, the herald angels sing, ‘Glory to the newborn King!’ Peace on earth and mercy mild, God and sinners reconciled!” I was that sinner reconciled to God through Christ, and I want my children to know that they are sinners in need of reconciliation. You see, to truly celebrate the birth of Christ, we must remember the death of Christ. Because he came into the world seeking and saving (Luke 19:10; 1 Timothy 1:15), he had to come into the world dying (Romans 5:6-11). Christmastime is such a wonderful opportunity to f lesh out these biblical truths with our children, because it’s when we recognize Christ’s physical birth was necessary for our spiritual birth ( John 3:3). We recognize that God’s Son was sent to deliver us from God’s wrath (Romans 5:9; 1 Thessalonians 1:10).
Aaron is the Pastor to Children and Families at Keltys First Baptist Church. www.keltys.org He and his wife Anita have four children and moved to Luf kin from Arkansas in August 2012. You can read more at Aaron’s blog: www.aaronwilson.org .
Shepherds fearing. Angels proclaiming. Sinners warring. Jesus saving. These are the sights and sounds I want my children to remember.
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PLACES & FACES
Scare on the Square
68 • THE JOURNEY • DECEMBER2013
ANGLER OF THE YEAR
DARREN ROBERTS
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he 2013 Toyota Bassmaster Weekend Series National Championship tournament, operated by American Bass Anglers, was held November 6-9 near Hendersonville, Tennessee. The event featured the top 20 percent of boaters and co-anglers from four regional championships competing for a share of one of the largest paydays for weekend anglers. The anglers competed in one-day divisional events throughout the year as well as a two-day divisional championship. East Texas’ own Darren Roberts won the title of Angler of the Year and earned the right to compete in the National Championship tournament. Roberts qualified for the championship through five qualifying tournaments held between March and September of this year at Sam Rayburn and Toledo Bend.
Passing on the love of nature, the importance of family, and a love for fishing.
The format for this series is a boater/co-angler format in which each boat has a boating competitor and a co-angler competitor fishing from the back of the boat. The pairs are comprised randomly by computer, and boaters fish against all other boaters and the co-angler fishes against all other co-anglers. Total competitors in this series were about 115. Points are given based on place of finish per tournament. The five qualifying tournaments are held throughout the spring, summer and fall seasons, causing the anglers to adapt to different fishing conditions and life-cycle stages of the fish. For example, in the spring the fish are spawning in the shallows and in the heat of the summer they are out in deeper water. Darren Roberts has been tournament fishing for ten years in both 70 • THE JOURNEY • DECEMBER2013
individual and team (or partner) tournaments. He began fishing at a very early age, developing a love and passion for the sport on the White River in Arkansas where his grandparents had a weekend home. Today, Roberts and his wife of eleven years, Carmon, enjoy camping on the weekends. Darren is able to spend quality time with Carmon and their son Case, who will turn four in February, as well as putting in practice time. Darren says he feels fortunate his weekend hobby rewards him (a boat and prize money) and helps fund his expenses. However, he was especially proud to see his son set the hook and reel in his first fish by himself recently. “He loves to go fishing and riding in the boat with me,” says Roberts. “I am also grateful for the friends I have met during my time fishing tournaments. Winning Angler of the Year has really been an important accomplishment for me. There are a lot of great anglers that fish this circuit, and I’m proud to compete against them,” Roberts shares. “I am also thankful for my sponsors who help me along the way. They are BassCat boats, Mercury Motors, and Castaway graphite rods.”
A life of fishing tournaments may sound an envious life. Roberts fishes about fifteen tournaments a year. However, he also holds down an everyday job. He is an outside salesman for United Rentals, but Roberts maintains that one of the biggest enjoyments he experiences in life is fishing in the great outdoors. “You get to see many things that a lot of people don’t see...from sunrises to bald eagles,” says Darren. Passing on the love of nature, the importance of family and a love for fishing is Robert’s primary purpose and the passion of his life.
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MUSIC NOTES
T H E CROS SM E N
T
Bringing a New Look to an Aged Sound
he contrast between their youth and the traditional southern Gospel music they perform make The Crossmen of Luf kin a unique phenomenon in the industry. However, The Crossmen are not a “traditional” southern Gospel quartet. With various talents and a variety of experience, The Crossmen bring a different flare to southern Gospel.
It all began in the summer of 2010 with a song from 1929. Jamie Streetman traveled to summer camp with the Cub Scouts and I’ll Fly Away played on Jamie’s iPod. The song inspired Jamie and he rearranged the famous hymn. Through that experience, God sparked an interest in Jamie to start a southern Gospel group. In October 2011, Jonathan Bryan was asked to join as the Tenor/Lead vocalist. Micah Shaffer joined as the Tenor 1 vocalist one month You can learn more & later. The young men sang as a see concert details at trio for about a year, and then facebook.com/ Spencer Tutt joined the group crossmenministries or as the Bass vocalist. All four www.thecrossmen.com members have two things in common: they share the desire to spread God’s word and are former members of the A. C. Singers, a collegiate show choir in Lufkin. Jamie Streetman’s version of I’ll Fly Away is now a crowd favorite when the group performs. “You will not find many young men singing Southern Gospel Music in the industry. In fact, many young adults are pulled towards secular music for the money and fame. The four of us share one thing in common and that is
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God. We have the same calling to sing, spread the love of Christ, and share the gospel to many,” says Shaffer. The group has come a long way in the one year since they formed. They held over 55 concerts in 2012, sang with two national Gospel groups, The Bowling Family and Brian Free and Assurance. This year they performed at the Liberty Opry in October and booked another Gospel Cruise with Arnie Shipp and the Shipp Family Gospel Cruise Fest for February 2015 (visit www.gospelcruisefest.org for details). They also sing internationally, performing at the Gospel Crusade in Nassau, Bahamas in November of this year. Shaffer adds, “We are continuously reminded that young men our age are not singing southern Gospel. We are not the “norm,” but we stand as a united front for God and follow His command to go into all nations and preach His truth.” The Crossmen aim to offer an enjoyable Christian atmosphere for all ages through real life humor and testimony of what God has done, is doing, and will do for His children. The primary goal for the group is to reach more people each day and spread the gospel of Christ.
THE CROSSMEN Jamie Streetman – Baritone/Lead Jonathan Bryan – Tenor/Lead Micah Shaffer – Tenor I Spencer Tutt – Bass
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FISHING FUN FOR EVERYONE
Patriots Challenge Championship Helps Local Heroes
T
he Patriots Challenge recently held its third annual Open Championship bass fishing tournament at the Jackson Hill Park and Marina on Lake Sam Rayburn. Patriot anglers, Veterans, and active duty military members fished in an effort to help others enjoy the great outdoors. A High School and Youth Division were added this year to increase the fun and excitement for all in attendance.
The Patriots Challenge Championship raises money to benefit three military causes: (1) Jackson Hill’s Outdoor Freedom Network Program provides free stays and fishing trips to active duty military and their families. (2)The Wounded Warrior Association of East Texas provides fishing and hunting trips to Purple Heart and combat wounded military members at Jackson Hill as well as other destinations along the Gulf Coast and across the country. (3) The Honor and Remember Campaign is dedicated to honoring and remembering our military members who sacrificed their lives for our freedoms. “We had so many great moments that made this year’s Patriots Challenge very special,” reported Terry Sympson, the event founder and tournament director. Nearly half of the 60 or so participants in this year’s tournament were active military or veterans. “I really enjoyed seeing the younger anglers bring in so many big fish. The look on young Bradley Rathburn’s face when he won the Lews rod and reel was priceless. He, his grandpa, and dad came by the next day and he had it rigged and ready to go fishing.” “We also really enjoyed Roy James’ reaction to receiving the hand painted saw blade commemorating the Honor and Remember Flag adopted by Texas as our official state symbol for our fallen heroes. Roy has been relentlessly pursuing this goal for the last two years and deserves recognition for his efforts.” The Honor and Remember campaign is a nationwide effort that has been adopted by 16 States. Governor Perry signed the declaration making the Honor and Remember Flag the
official symbol for our Texas fallen this past Memorial Day (more information at www. txhonorandremember.com). Sympson adds, “We were also grateful we were able to get the Patriots Challenge project boat ready to present to William Barth, our local Broaddus Wounded Hero. We are not completely finished yet, but are well on our way to turning the keys over to William. We had ten wounded warriors staying with us, and they all had a great time.” Mark Richards won the loyalty pot that accumulated over the year from the Patriots Challenge Weekend Series tournaments. Mark and his partner Doug Lehman also captured third place in the overall Patriots Division with a nice sack of f ish weighing 15.77 lbs and topped the f ield in Big Bass with a 6.49 lb big girl. Youth Division was won by Bradley Rathburn with his Grandpa Benny Aylor. He received a Lews Speed Stick Rod with a matching Lews Speed Spool Reel. They were able to boat 16.23 lbs including a nice 5.56 pounder. The Heroes Division was won by John Frazier and Ben Read with a total weight of 12.72, while second place in the Patriots Division went to Benny Aylor and Bradley Rathburn with 16.23 lbs. The Patriots Challenge Champions were Scott Burns and Richard Dragulski with a winning weight of 17.58 lbs. “We would like to thank all of our sponsors and participants for making the event such great success, said Connie Sympson of Jackson Hill.” She adds, “It takes a lot of people to make any event successful, but we would like to give special thanks and recognition to Broaddus’ favorite son Donnie Dickerson with Wholesale Electric who spent so many hours helping to raise money and awareness of our efforts. We also want to give a special thanks to Eddie Richards from Autoequation in Houston and an active member of the Fishers of Men Tournament Trail who was the number one contributor for our project boat restoration.”
photography by Kimberly Squires & Terry Sympson
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TROPHY ROOM
TROPHY HUNTS
Blake Slaga, Age 9. First buck, shot 10/27/13 off of Baber Mill Hunting Lease in Huntington.
Jace Spencer's first buck kill. Shot in Nacogdoches County. 8 pt, 17" spread.
Hunter Bullock. 10 pt buck, killed on opening morning at the Pine Ridge Hunting Club near Leggett in Polk County.
Rayce Barrett, 15 yrs old, got his first buck opening morning at Estelle Unit Hunting Club near Huntsville, TX. 13 pt, 13 & 1/4" spread.
2013 East Texas Youth Football “ Fightin’ Irish” Super Bowl Champions. Undefeated Season 10-0. 1st Row: Colby Lister, David Lara, Cameron Lister, Jared Massie, “Cubs” Green. 2nd Row: Jorge Cervantes, Joseph Loyd, Hunter Hicks, Conner Green, Chance Shumway. 3rd Row: Kez Singleton, Ethan Cates, Malcolm Deason, Braylon Holman, Vicente Lara, Bradyn Walker, Christian Crain. 4th Row: Coaches- Quinten Holman, Kim Maxie, Scott Green, Head Coach- Malcolm Deason.
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Chance Shumway. 1st doe.
Campbell Selman, 12 yrs old. Shot 10pt from a distance of 125 yds while hunting in Menard, TX with her dad, Mark Selman.
Cole Corley, 8 yrs old. 8 pt. 11/2/2013.
Neal Warner. Lake Sam Rayburn.
Preston McGuire killed his first deer (2 doe), on private land from a distance of 100 yds using a .223 caliber rifle on his 8th birthday. He was hunting with his dad, Jamie McGuire.
Karley LaForge, 9 yrs old, got her first buck, a 9 pt, on Saturday 10/26 at Anderson Creek Hunting Club with a 243.
Send a photo of your trophy hunt & information to photos@tjmag.com. Submissions are free of charge.
Dale Bounds on opening morning with an 8pt.
Bob Utterback. Sam Rayburn.
David Dykes.
Mike Shumway. Hog hunt in Diboll. (largest 255 lbs)
Kaylei Dykes, 7 yrs old, and her Uncle David. 10 point,
Bombers 9U. 2nd place, Nacogdoches Super Seris Tournament. Front Row L-R: Jacob Lamon, Will Gillen, Jacob Weibe, Kolby Kovar Middle Row L-R: Charlie Deaton, Chip Buchanan, Bosten Oliver, Cooper Knight, Will Stafford Back Row L-R: Clay Oliver, Jeff Buchanan, Ryan Deaton.
Daughter, Taylor Alvis, 9 yrs old & Mom, Cheryl Harrison. Got their first bucks on same weekend (Sat 10/26 & Sun 10/27) at Dollarhide Hunting Club, Diboll, TX.
Rett Smith.
Jeanetta Sneed. 11/3/2013 in Zavalla on private property. 8 pt, 18 3/4 spread, with a green score of 133. This deer was killed with a 243 with a 58 grain hornady bullet at at a distance of 60 yds.
Jacob Lamon, 8 yrs old. Killed doe on 11/2/13 at Chronister Club.
Casey Keen. 10 pt, 146 6/8, 20 1/4 wide. Killed 9/29/13 with bow. Nancy Ann Hunting Club. Polk County.
Mary Grace Polk. 11/2/2013. Houston County. tjmag.com • 77
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80 • THE JOURNEY • DECEMBER2013