The Journey Magazine, December 2012

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Contents DECEMBER2012

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CONTACT US: M a i l i n g : P O B ox 1 5 0 5 37 | L u f k i n , Texa s 759 1 5 P hys i c a l : 1 1 5 E . S h e p h e rd | L u f k i n , Texa s 759 0 1 936-­634-­7188 | advertise@tjmag.com facebook.com/tjmag twitter.com/tjmeast

11 YOURHOME

37 YOURBODY

12 13 14 16

38 40 42 44

Decor & Design: Handmade Christmas Crafts In the Kitchen: Get Cookie Inspired Your Pantry: Angus Pride Beef Tenderloin Grammy’s Dirt: Composting

Fashion: Holiday Party Dresses Under $50 Makeup Box: Holiday Beauty Buys Under $20 Health: Heartburn: Signs, Symptoms, Relief Life Change: The Rios Family

19 YOURCOMMUNITY

47 YOURCHILD

20 22 24 26 28 32

48 50 51 53 54

Celebration: 40 Years of Ministry On the Scene: Main Street Lufkin Relationships: Holiday Gathering at Granny Smith’s Stretch Marks: This Christmas...

Something Abundant: Momma Mary Inspiring Woman: Nelda Frederick

Pretty Babies Parent Thoughts: More Than Tiny Footsteps Look at Me Birthday Bash: Allie-­Gwyn’s Big Day Why I Love Being a Mom: Natalie Dickerson

Cover Photo by Clay Bostian, Creative Photography

president: Stephanie Oliver managing editor: Beth Johnson | editor@tjmag.com director of sales: Kim Iribarren | kim@tjmag.com marketing consultant: Kevin McCarty | kevin@tjmag.com office manager/accountant: K\iip :XdgY\cc s f]ÔZ\7kadX^%Zfd layout and design: Macy Haffey event photographer: Lisa Crow | lisacrowphotography@gmail.com | www.lisacrowphotography.com event photographer: Morgan Due | www.morgandue.com contributors: Jessica Tinsley Bridges, Felicia Dark, Dr. Gregory DeArmond, Kelly Finnerud, Kathryn Greene, Amy McLeod, Angie Nichols, Melissa Radke, Jane Shepherd, Raegan Cassels Williamson distribution: Lisa Crow, Janet Glover, Jarod Thompson

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Your Home decor & design 12 in the kitchen 13 your pantry 14 grammy’s dirt 16

by Jane Shepherd

YOURHOME | DECOR & DESIGN

hand-made

CHRISTMAS CRAFTS

hristmastime means beautiful decorations, and for most families, it also means many years of hand-made keepsakes.

These childhood creations are priceless. This season, spend time with your little ones creating masterpieces that will be treasures in the years to come. From little, tiny fingers to big, growing hands, these ideas are wonderful for children of all ages!

C

Glue pasta noodles to cardboard shapes. Then, spray them with gold paint.

Take five sticks and glue them into star shapes. Rub glue on them and roll in glitter.

Paint a sheet of paper green.

Roll it into a tree/cone shape. Glue on sequins to decorate the tree.

Use cardboard to make a house.

Cover it with foil and glue tissue paper on top to create the shiny stained-glass look.

Use toilet paper tubes and tissue paper to make the poinsettia and light bulbs.

Decorate gingerbread man cut outs and stitch them together.

Fold and cut decorative paper to make snowflakes.

Cover Styrofoam balls with sequins and beads by pushing a straight pin through the middle of the sequin or bead.

12 / The Journey - December 2012

Jane Shepherd grew up in Diboll. She went to Savannah College of Art and Design and majored in fibers. Shepherd has been teaching for 7 years.

She has one daughter, Hazel, who is in 2nd grade.

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IN THE KITCHEN YOURHOME

get cookie inspired aking is among the most fun, flavorful holiday traditions – and one that brings family and friends together in the kitchen. In fact, nearly 60 percent of home cooks are expected to bake holiday cookies this year.1

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Whether you’re baking gifts for teachers, sweets for a cookie share, or a nibble to enjoy after wrapping gifts, surprise and delight friends and family by taking seasonal favorites and infusing new twists.

“The holidays are marked by cherished baking traditions and enjoying the season’s most-loved flavors and treats, like gingerbread men, sugar cookies, peppermint candies and eggnog,” says Mary Beth Harrington of the McCormick Kitchens. “This season, we’ve taken a favorite recipe, Peppermint Bark, and added a fun, new take to create holidayinspired cookie bars. Layer fudgy brownies with smooth peppermint crème, chocolate glaze and candy cane toppings for these delicious Peppermint Bars.”

PEPPERMINT BARS Prep Time: 15 minutes | Cook Time: 15 minutes | Refrigerate: 30 minutes Makes 36 servings 1 2 1/2 15 1 1/2 1 12

package (21 ounces) fudge brownie mix cups confectioners’ sugar tablespoons butter, softened, divided tablespoons heavy cream teaspoon McCormick Pure Peppermint Extract ounces semi-sweet baking chocolate, coarsely chopped Crushed peppermint candies or candy canes (optional)

For more holiday baking recipes like Spiced Holiday Sugar Cookies and White Chocolate Kissed Gingerbread Cookies, visit www.McCormick.com.

1. Preheat oven to 350°F. Prepare brownie mix as directed on package. Spread in greased foil-lined 15 x 10 x 1-inch baking pan.

Allrecipes.com Measuring Cup, 2011 Holiday Survey Trends

3. Meanwhile, beat confectioners’ sugar, 7 tablespoons butter, cream and peppermint extract in large bowl with electric mixer on medium speed until well blended and smooth. Spread evenly over cooled brownie. Refrigerate 30 minutes.

1

2. Bake 15 minutes or until toothpick inserted into center comes out almost clean. Cool in pan on wire rack.

4. Microwave chocolate and remaining 8 tablespoons (1 stick) butter in large microwave bowl on HIGH 2 minutes or until butter is melted. Stir until chocolate is completely melted.

Spread over top of chilled brownie. Sprinkle with crushed peppermint candies, if desired.

Cut into bars.

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by Amy McLeod, RD, LD

YOURHOME | YOUR PANTRY

celebrate the season with

Angus Pride® Beef Tenderloin f you desire a holiday meal that’s an affair to remember, consider a new family tradition with Angus Pride® Beef Tenderloin. From young to old, friends and family will welcome the rich, buttery flavor of oven roasted beef tenderloin. Prepared correctly, beef tenderloin is fork tender and has an irresistible melt-in-your-mouth beef flavor. For an unforgettable holiday meal, serve Angus Pride® beef tenderloin with sautéed pearl onions and mushrooms, saffron rice, and fresh asparagus with lemon zest.

I

Angus Pride® USDA Choice beef tenderloins are available at select Brookshire Brothers locations. Contact your local Brookshire Brothers

market manager at least a week in advance to ensure availability and to reserve any large orders of this premium cut. USDA Prime ribeyes and top sirloins, along with Angus Pride® USDA Choice ribeyes, T-bones, and strips, are also available. The Holiday Beef Tenderloin recipe is courtesy of Texas Beef Council. The simple fresh asparagus with lemon zest recipe is from my mother, Nancy Nicholson, a fabulous cook and former restaurant owner.

We hope you enjoy these recipes as you celebrate the season.

Cheers to you and your family this Christmas from Brookshire Brothers – A celebration of family and community!

holiday beef tenderloin Ingredients ƌ 1 well-trimmed whole beef tenderloin (4 to 5 lbs.) (Serves 8-10 people) ƌɄ . '/ Seasoning ƌɄ ųƝŴɄ .+ƆɄ - & Ʉ ' &Ʉ+ ++ ƌɄ ŵɄ '*1 .Ʉ" -'$ ƇɄ($) ƌɄ ŴɄ/.+ƆɄ -$ Ʉ/#4( Ʉ' 1 .

Instructions Heat oven to 425°F. Combine seasoning ingredients; press evenly onto all surfaces of beef roast. Place roast on rack in shallow roasting pan. Insert ovenproof meat thermometer so tip is centered in thickest part of beef, not resting in fat. Do not add water or cover. Roast in 425°F oven for 50 to 60 minutes for medium rare; 60 to 70 minutes for medium doneness.

Remove roast when meat thermometer registers 135°F for medium rare; 150°F for medium doneness.

Transfer roast to carving board; tent loosely with aluminum foil. Let stand 15 minutes (temperature will continue to rise about 10°).

Carve roast into think slices and season with salt, as desired. Serve with sautéed pearl onions and mushrooms.

Nutrition Info per serving: (1 serving, 4 oz.) 286 calories; 20 g fat (8 g saturated fat; 8 g monounsaturated fat); 72 mg cholesterol; 183 mg sodium; 4.5 g carbohydrate; 0.6 g fiber; 21 g protein; 2.6 mg niacin; 0.2 mg vitamin B6; 2.1 mcg vitamin B12; 3 mg iron; 19.7 mcg selenium; 3.5 mg zinc.

fresh asparagus with lemon zest 2 2 2

pounds fresh asparagus, rinsed and ends trimmed (about 1 inch) lemons Tablespoons melted butter (optional)

Heat large stock pot of water to a rolling boil, add ¼ tsp. salt. Blanche fresh asparagus for 2-3 minutes. Remove and rinse with cold water. Grate 2 tablespoons lemon rind and sprinkle over asparagus. Drizzle with 2 tablespoons melted butter if desired. Serve immediately.

Amy McLeod, RD, LD is a Registered and Licensed Dietitian and Healthy Living Spokeswoman for Brookshire Brothers.

For products “Approved by Amy,” go to www.brookshirebrothers.com

by Felicia Dark

YOURHOME | GRAMMY’S DIRT

COMPOSTING ith the hustle and bustle of the holidays upon us, the last thing on our mind is gardening. Why not take some time to de-stress, get out in the cool, crisp air and make a compost pile. It is easy to do and not a lot of rules to go with it.

W

Composting is the breakdown of organic matter.

Microorganisms, like fungi and bacteria, turn the compost, by way of decomposition, into rich hummus. It needs moisture, oxygen, and the breakdown of carbons, nitrogen and proteins.

These consists of leaves, shredded paper, shredded wood, hay grass, vegetables, any table scraps, (except meat), egg shells, coffee grounds, tea bags, etc…the smaller the particles, the quicker the break down.

All you need is a large container, wood or plastic will work fine. You can even dig a hole and use it for your compost. It helps if you buy a bag of hummus or garden soil, add a little fertilizer, then start adding your organic matter to that. Keep the compost damp, but not soaking wet.

You will need to turn it about once every week or two, using a pitch fork or rake.

With our mild winters, it is still possible for the microorganisms to breakdown. The organic compost pile might be cool on the outside, but the inside will be warm because the bacteria and fungi are still actively doing their work.

The end result will be well worth your efforts, and you will be able to add the rich hummus to your garden come spring. Happy gardening.

Felicia Dark is an Angelina County Master Gardener.

She is the proud Grammy of 12 grandchildren.

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PLACESANDFACES

Rotary Waffle Bake

18 / The Journey - December 2012

Your Community celebration 20 on the scene 22 relationships 24 stretch marks 26 something abundant 28 inspiring woman 32

Festival of Trees | Museum of East Texas

40 YEARS

of ministry ecent studies show that on average, a pastor will stay at a church for five years. For John and Kathryn Greene, there is nothing “average” about their time at Harmony Hill Baptist Church in Lufkin.

R

In 1972, John was working at a bank in Jacksonville, Texas, while attending seminary. He got a call from M.L. McGee, the pastor of Harmony Hill. A mutual friend had mentioned that John might

asked what I was going to do? Was I going to accept the position? I looked at her and let her know we would both find out together, because I didn’t know what I was supposed to do.” He preached the sermon and walked down in front of the pulpit. He explains, “I hadn’t been saved that long, and I was new to God speaking so strongly to me, but just as clear as God saved me, he told me to accept this position. I opened my mouth, and the words came out; I accept your call as pastor.” From that moment on,

“Not all long pastorates make g reat churches, but g reat churches have long pastorates.”

-W.A. Criswell, Late Pastor of First Baptist Church Dallas

be able to fill in at the pulpit while McGee went in view of a call to another church. In God’s sovereignty, John agreed to fill in, and he and his wife, Kathryn, made the short drive down highway 69 to preach. M.L. McGee ended up accepting another position in Alabama, and Harmony Hill called John Greene to be their pastor. John remembers, “We were driving into Lufkin to preach and Kathryn 20 / The Journey - December 2012

every step in his ministry would be taken in a similar fashion, by faith in God alone.

Forty years later, the members and surrounding community can look at Harmony Hill Baptist Church and see how the hand of God has blessed through the obedience of John Greene. The obedience to stay put, the obedience to make hard decisions, the obedience to stay true to God’s word and His plan.

This past month, the church celebrated the work God has done, both in the community and throughout the world, through the ministry of John and Kathryn Greene.

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CELEBRATION YOURCOMMUNITY

In a message reflecting on his forty years of service, Pastor John reminded his congregation of these things:

–1– Some steps in life are blind faith.

–2– You’ve got to stay for God to make something new. If God is doing something significant in your life, you can’t be all over the map.

John Greene is not finished in his work at Harmony Hill. He explains, “There is a great work God still wants to do at Harmony Hill. This will come through obedience to His will and prayer that seeks His aid.”

Pastor John’s deepest desire has always been to serve the purposes of God in his generation. He says, “Biblical success is not how I look, not what I have or who I know, but it’s who I am. The primary deal is that I’m a man who does what God says to do and I stay at it as long as He tells me to stay.”

–3– There are some things you just have to go through; the test is Lordship.

–4– God wants me to be a success.

John and Kathryn Greene have 2 sons, Kristen and Joel.

Kristen and his wife, Aran live in Lufkin with their 5 children. Joel and his wife, Demea, live in Oklahoma with their 6 children; the youngest two are expected to join their forever family later this year when their adoption Q[ ÅVIT QV 0IQ\Q

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YOURCOMMUNITY | ON THE SCENE

main street lufkin doors to welcome the first group of patrons.

Tara Watson-Watkins with the Convention and Visitors Bureau says, “It is an honor to be a part of the re-birth of our downtown district with the Grand Opening of The Pines Theater. 2013 promises to be a year full of incredible entertainment with nationally renowned entertainers such as Jennifer Holliday, Danny Wright, Michael Martin Murphy, M-Pact, Roslyn Kind and many more. Come join us as we embark on this new journey, not only as a community, but as a state of the art theater that is capable of standing beside the giants such as The Bass Hall, Theater Under the Stars and many more!

We are thrilled to bring another venue to Lufkin and offer our community one more place to experience the arts!”

I

f you have made the drive into downtown Lufkin, you can see and feel the transformation. If you haven’t been through downtown Lufkin lately, you don’t know what you are missing!

The downtown area was once the heart and soul of the city, but slowly began to quiet down as business expanded towards the high traffic area of the “loop” and the growing end of town. When life left the area, it was the beginning of the end for downtown Lufkin. Thankfully, enough people were ready to breathe new life back into those old, dilapidated buildings. Thus, one building at a time, Mark Hicks has been a driving force behind the revitalization project.

“I like to think of downtown as the fountain of youth; it makes people feel young again. It’s an honor to be a part of this; however I cannot take

22 / The Journey - December 2012

the credit alone. Everyone should be excited about this, because everyone makes it work.

From the downtown shop owners to their customers and people that venture downtown for whatever reason, it’s a cycle of commerce that makes this work again,” says Mark Hicks.

To date, there is over 100 different businesses that office in downtown Lufkin, with a growing number becoming retail businesses. Currently, there are over 20 retail businesses. The newest addition, Let Them be Little children’s boutique, opened its doors the week of Thanksgiving.

Little by little, strides are being made to bring life back onto the streets which were at one time, the only destination for all commerce in Lufkin.

The first week of December, downtown Lufkin enjoyed the re-grand opening of the “beauty on the block.” The Pines Theater re-opened her

The future of downtown Lufkin is bright and will only continue to grow. Hotel Angelina will by far be the flagship property. In 2013, there will be the “Restoration Wine Bar” which will offer a professional atmosphere for people to have a drink after work or enjoy live entertainment in the evenings. There will also be a local sandwich shop inside the hotel, as well as the exciting aspect of Loft living.

“Downtown Lufkin is the next big thing. In fact, we can’t finish the retail spaces fast enough.

Thanks to our community, they have pushed downtown back onto the scene and it’s becoming one of the most exciting places for shopping, entertainment and everything historical Lufkin has to offer,” said Mark Hicks.

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by K athryn Greene

YOURCOMMUNITY | RELATIONSHIPS

Holiday Gathering

at Granny S mith’s ne of our family’s favorite times of the year is Thanksgiving at Granny Smith’s house in Hope, Arkansas. However, it is not just a Thanksgiving celebration. It is also a Christmas gathering. I guess you could call it Christmas at Thanksgiving. There are about 30 (give or take one or two) that meet on Thanksgiving Day at my mother’s house. I bring cranberry salad, chocolate chip cake, and 4-layer delight. Marian brings pecan pie, yeast rolls, and chicken and dumplings. Annette picks up ham in northern Arkansas that is the best you have ever eaten – and she usually brings pumpkin pies. My sister-in-law makes a chocolate mouse pie. My two nieces bring broccoli salad and a green bean casserole. Mother makes the chicken dressing and cooks purple hull peas and turnip greens, but our favorite dish of the meal is the fried deer meat.

My mother knows how to get the “wild” taste out of the venison, tenderize the meat, and batter it for frying. It is our absolute favorite! The year there was no fried venison was a sad Thanksgiving/Christmas!

O

On Thanksgiving morning, the kitchen is full with everyone doing their assigned job. My nieces (and anyone else we can coax into helping) stand at the stove frying mounds of meat. It takes a lot for 30 people, and we make sure there is enough left over for an evening sandwich with a roll and meat.

While many of us are cooking, the guys and some of the younger women take all the children down to the school campus and play football. Sometimes it is cold and the children come back with runny noses and cold hands.

Sometimes it is warm and they are all sweated! They love tackling the uncles and running with their cousins. Word comes from the house that it is time to eat.

We all stand around the table holding hands and thanking God for His many blessings over the past year. We all live several miles from each other – northern Arkansas, central Oklahoma, southern Arkansas, and here in East Texas- but all of us are able to give testimony of God’s love and grace wherever we are or whatever we have been

24 / The Journey - December 2012

doing. This year, family members have made trips to Africa, Haiti, and India for the purpose of sharing that there is a God who loves them and desires a relationship with them just like the one that our family shares.

After we have eaten, the children all want to open gifts!

For years, the adults have brought a gift to be numbered and we play a game. The person who draws the #1 gets to go first and then they get to choose at the end of the game if they want to take another gift or keep the one they have. Everyone wants the first number or the last number. Someone is always putting a crazy gift in the mix! Then we sisters always give each other a gift. The guys started getting guy gifts for each other and exchanging them. Now, the grandchildren want in on the giving, so the giving (and receiving) keeps on going. We have a lot of fun. We all get something for mother, and she gives each one of us something. She comes up with some neat things for us: monogrammed napkins, aprons for the guys and girls, towel sets, homemade bags for the children’s toys, etc.

We usually play games that night and get up the next morning for a breakfast of biscuits, eggs, and bacon.

After breakfast, the women get dressed and leave the kids with the guys and go to T-town (Texarkana) to shop!

We try to get back for the guys to go to town to watch a movie! The kids, well they just love being together, jumping on the mini trampoline, playing with dolls, or building “houses” outside with the leaves.

Oh, I forgot we always take pictures on Thanksgiving afternoon after the little ones wake up from a nap. A picture of each family unit is taken, then one of Granny Smith with the siblings and grandchildren. Everyone hates it, but it is a tradition that we dare not skip.

We all look forward to going to Granny Smith’s house! I love to hear my grandchildren (Granny Smith’s great grandchildren) ask, “Is it time to go to Granny Smith’s house yet?” The Holiday Gathering will always be special to our family!

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by Melissa Radke

YOURCOMMUNITY | STRETCH MARKS

this Christmas...

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will focus more on the Story and less on the sales.

I will say “no” to the un-important and “yes” to the important.

I will care far more about baking their favorite cookies and far less about keeping my kitchen clean. I will let them add sprinkles (even though sprinkles get everywhere and you can never get them all up). And when they want to wipe frosting on my nose, (which they want to do every single year) I will let them. And I will laugh right along with them.

I will pull the car over, put it in park and let them look at the Lufkin Industries Rudolph. I will not drive by it at 80 miles per hour while shouting, “No, we have somewhere we need to be!” I will take a breath and watch their faces. And I will stare at it in amazement… just like them.

I will accompany him to boring Christmas parties and functions so that he won’t have to go alone. I will be the person he walks in with and goes home with. I will make him proud, laugh at his jokes and make him feel like the most important person in the room, which won’t be hard, because I think he is.

If I see a cute pair of Christmas pajamas, I will buy them. For me. Just for me. And I will not feel guilty.

I will listen to Justin Bieber’s Christmas album without guilt, shame or any kind of condemnation.

I will tell my family that I love them, that I appreciate them and that I can’t imagine life without them. I will pull them close and hug them.

photograph by Kylie Kristine | kyliekristine.com

I will honor my son who passed away on Christmas day. I will wipe the fallen leaves off his grave and think of the age he would have been.

I will roll over on Christmas morning and hold hands with my best friend. I will kiss him and tell him, “It will be okay,” because when a child dies, it isn’t just the momma who cries. He will kiss me back, and I will feel incredibly blessed. Then I will take a deep breath and run down the hall to see what Santa brought to the children that God gave me to heal the hurt - but not remove the memory.

I will let the wrapping paper fly and the bows get stomped on. I will not walk around with a trash bag saying things like, “Put that in here please….and save that box!” I will not care. I will not care. I will not care.

(Repeat 100x or until I mean it.)

I will take a nap on Christmas Day, maybe even two!

I will make sure my kids know the words to Silent Night, but even more importantly, I will make sure they know the meaning.

I will be early to their Christmas plays so that I am not the mom who has to stand on a chair in the back of the room….again.

I will hold my breath before I open any gift from The Attorney General and hope it’s something I really, really want (GOLDEN RETRIEVER PUPPY! Cough. Cough.) and not the Poncho Fiasco of 2003 all over again. (Y’all really should’ve seen that thing, it was horrible!)

I will fall into a ham induced coma around 3pm. It will be…delightful.

Melissa Radke is married to the best looking man in town, whom she affectionately refers to as The Attorney General. They have two children, Remi and Rocco; you have probably seen their picture in the Most Wanted list at your local schools. She loves movie popcorn, telling her friends what to do with their hair and being the center of attention. You can find her anytime at melissa@lufkin.org or Chik-fil-A. You are encouraged to ask for her autograph. In fact, she insists.

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by Angie Nichols

YOURCOMMUNITY | SOMETHING ABUNDANT

Momma Mary he flutters of the baby inside my womb awoke a new awareness of the precious and fragile life I loved without restraint or condition. The Christmas I spent pregnant, I realized I’d die to save this child one moment’s pain, and my eyes had not yet seen her. That sort of deep love is the miraculous result of motherhood.

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When my only child, Mycah, was born, my mother wrote the story of our family’s female legacy in a journal. It is penned in her familiar hand-writing and laced with old photos of the women of our family-- generations back -- right up to ones of me with baby Mycah. In it, she recounts the stories of each of the women of her childhood, as well as her own story of becoming a widow when my brothers and I were young children. The stories of romance, death, war, deployments, caring for children with special needs, and the Depression tell of strength and faith. Then my mother wrote of her confidence in my ability to be a good mother, as well. When she placed it in my young hands, the journal meant more to me than precious jewels.

When Mycah was diagnosed with leukemia four years later, I was sure I’d break when faced with the magnitude of storms the women of my family faced in previous generations. I feared Mycah wouldn’t live to pass on the love copiously invested by the women of our family before me.

I couldn’t reconcile the plan of a loving God and my only child’s cancer.

The Christmas Mycah underwent aggressive chemotherapy, I spent much time captivated by Mary. Yes, the virgin mother of Jesus. I would have loved to call her up for a mid-morning chat, or better yet, for her to show me how to roll out unleavened bread while telling me all about the day Gabriel called upon her.

The angel said to her, “Do not be afraid, Mary, you have found favor with God. You will be with child and give birth to a son, and you are to give him the name Jesus. He will be great and will be called the Son of the Most High…his kingdom will never end.” (Luke 1:30-33)

Did she wonder if perhaps, Gabriel had the wrong house? The wrong girl? Did she have trouble reconciling God’s plan colliding with her morning chores? With a heart full of questions and possibly a multitude of doubts threatening, Mary sang a song of praise to the Lord. “My soul glorifies the Lord and my spirit rejoices in God my Savior, for he has been mindful of the humble state of his servant. From now on all generations will call me blessed…” (Luke 1:46-48) Mary held the Christ-child in her womb, then in her arms. She watched Him grow and nurtured His curious and loving nature. I am certain she would have died to save Him one moment’s pain.

I can’t begin to comprehend her heartbreak as she stood at the foot of her baby boy’s cross as instead, He died to save her one moment’s condemnation. What child is this? His once tiny, infant hands were pierced by the nails of the world’s sin, and He saved us all.

This past Christmas, my heart was pierced with love -- so profound it caused physical pain -- to watch my mother’s tan, furrowed hands gently cover Mycah’s pudgy, white fingers on the rolling pin while baking pies for our family’s holiday meal. Mom guided Mycah’s hands to just the right pressure for rolling out a beautifully smooth pie crust.

Then she demonstrated how to fold it with the gentleness of one holding a baby bunny and unfurled it into the pie plate. Mycah watched wide-eyed and then practiced her own version until she proved successful in her own right.

That sort of deep love is the miraculous result of Grace. Heaven comes close and meets earth in an explosion of love that breathes life into soul.

And then I know He is here. Emmanuel, God with us. There is so much more than what my eyes see when I get a glimpse of the unseen God of unapproachable light.

Just as I treasure the words my mother penned for Mycah of our family’s heritage, let’s treasure the Scriptures. We will see the handwriting of the God who traced His plan of love from Eve, the mother of all the living, to Mary, the mother of Jesus, to me and you. And like Mary, may we allow our souls to glorify the Lord and rejoice in the unreasonable, gracious love of Christ our Savior--even when we cannot fully understand His plan. I pray the reality of His Holy presence interrupts our daily lives in such a profound way that there are no other words to be said, save, “Blessed is she who has believed that what the Lord has said to her will be accomplished.”

(Luke 1:45)

When the glory of selfless love is reproduced and on display in the members of my family, Christmas comes to live in my very presence.

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 experience the beauty of an abundant life knowing Christ as Bridegroom. She is married to Chris and they have one daughter, Mycah. For more information, visit somethingabundantministries.org

photographed by Lisa Crow

PLACESANDFACES

Diboll Day Parade

Interested in purchasing a photo you see? Visit lisacrowphotography.smugmug.com!

dreams do

come true Bridal Issue January 2013 Reserve your ad spot now.

Call 936.634.7188

Kylie Tyer | photographed by Stephanie Davis

YOURCOMMUNITY | INSPIRING WOMAN

or many years, Nelda Frederick has served others. She is a single mom to three children. She grew up in Nacogdoches, and has worked at Stephen F. Austin State University for the past nineteen years.

F

Nelda has always concentrated her limited resources on her children, working to provide and help them attain a good education. Now, she does the same for her grandchildren.

Nelda could never make her income stretch far enough to help both her family and herself, so she often did without. Nelda has tried to save money to have dental work done, but has always used her “extra” to help others.

Nelda is an extremely dedicated mother and co-worker. Those around her describe her as a sincere, honest friend who has a positive attitude and is always willing to do more than her share. One co-worker says, “Nelda has spent her life serving others; her life focus has never been herself.”

In recent years, Nelda has needed care for her hair, teeth and an updated wardrobe. She always thought these things were out of her reach, until now. A few months ago, Nelda was selected to be the Pineywoods Change

the Dream Team behind the transformation

Your Life Makeover winner, sponsored

by Lehman Eye Center in Nacogdoches.

Many of Nelda’s co-workers and friends wrote letters to nominate her for this award.

Overwhelmingly, those around her were noticing a decline in her self-esteem.

Nelda explains, “Changes in myself had begun to take place that made me feel selfconscious and even withdrawn; this is so different for me and not my normal behavior!” Nelda is used to doing for others and being company to many friends, but her appearance had started holding her back.

One of her co-workers states, “She seems to be changing from her happy, personable self into one who prefers to be in the background.”

Her friends have supported her in this process, because they want her appearance to match her beautiful personality.

Today, Nelda is enjoying the many changes that have taken place in her life. Most importantly, she has her self-confidence back and feels so much better. She says, “I can never repay the team for all they have done for me.

They are just wonderful.” She is exercising daily and getting into a routine of taking care of herself. The reaction from those around Nelda is extremely positive. Everyone on

BEFORE

campus is noticing her new outlook on life and continuing to support her in this journey. She is very excited about what the future holds.

neldafrederick

After “Nelda has spent her life serving others; her life focus has never been herself.”

photographed by Lisa Crow

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Texas State Forest Festival

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Junior League of Lufkin Sustainer Christmas Social

36 / The Journey - December 2012

Your Body fashion 38 makeup box 40 women’s health 42 life change 44

photographed by Morgan Due

by Jessica Tinsley Bridges, Co-creator of joandjessfashionblog.com

YOURBODY | FASHION

5 HOLIDAY PARTY DRESSES UNDER $50 1

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t’s officially holiday party season! This year it’s all about going glam with luxurious fabrics, gorgeous embellishments and a lot of sparkle. Here are 5 holiday dresses to celebrate the season in style for under $50. You can be fabulous this holiday season without blowing your gift-giving budget.

1. This green dress is perfect for holiday mingling with its high-waist & ruffle neckline detail.

You can add a sparkle cardigan for bling and warmth. It’s also available in a red and blue.

Women’s Ruffled Crepe Dresses, Old Navy, $39.80 2. You will turn heads at any party with this sweet dress. The petal detailing is the perfect touch with the cap sleeves and an above-the-knee hem. A sequin clutch and colorful flats will make this outfit look even more festive.

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Jaclyn Smith Cap Sleeve Dress, Kmart, $29.99

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3. This loose-fitting dress is absolutely beautiful, and I can’t believe the gorgeous lace.

Wear this dress with a fancy pair of sparkly tights, and you’re in business.

Skylar Dress, Blithe Boutique, $43 4. I love a beautiful red dress for the holidays. The color and shape of this dress are holiday approved. Add tights and black boots for a fun look.

Merona Tie Waist Shirred V-Neck Dress, Target, $27.99 5. Every woman deserves to shine during the holiday season. This black, sparkly number has a great high waistline with a sash to flatter many shapes.

Bisou Bisou Sequin Dress with Sash, JCP, $45

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 and her sister-in-law, Jo, have their own fashion blog where they share their love of fashion on a budget.

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by Raegan Cassels Williamson

YOURBODY | MAKEUP BOX

HOLIDAY BEAUTY

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absolutely love holiday gift shopping and love all the awesome beauty buys even more. However, I often find that my beauty wants, and sometimes needs, don’t get along too well with my stay-at-home mom budget. So, I found a few budget friendly holiday beauty buys that you can gift or keep for yourself.

The “Fab in a Flash” set by bareMinerals is $18.00. It comes with a mini black volumizing mascara, black waterproof eyeliner, and a sheer pink gloss. You can purchase this at Makeup Junkies inside of Expressive Images.

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The “ Hands of Hope” and “Purity” Ornaments are both $10.00. The “Purity” is a cleanser that takes off face and eye makeup, as well as hydrates your skin. It is a gentle cleanser. The “Hands of Hope” is an amazing hand lotion. It doesn’t leave your hands feeling greasy, but definitely hydrates them very well! You can find these products at Makeup Junkies inside of Expressive Images.

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The “Blinged Palette” is $15.00 and may be purchased at Sephora.com. Keep this jewel-covered compact in your purse and use this versatile collection of flattering, high-payoff formulas to achieve gorgeous day and evening looks. The eight harmonious, blendable shadows come in a range of matte and shimmering shades, and the convenient slide-out drawer features five moisturizing lip colors and a pretty, pink blush. This palette also includes a mini blush brush and a mini, dual-ended shadow and lip brush for easy application on the go. (Info provided by sephora.com)

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The “Studio Pop for Lips” is a great girlfriend gift or stocking stuffer. The set is only $19.00 and includes 5 glosses in Smashbox’s favorite shades. This set may be purchase at Ulta.com.

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The “Candy Cane” Shower gel is $16.00. It’s also a bubble bath, as well as a shampoo, and it smells like candy canes! It’s very refreshing and hydrating.

This can also be purchased at Makeup Junkies inside of Expressive Images.

Raegan Cassels Williamson is a wife, mother, nurse and cosmetic enthusiast. She has put her career on hold to be a mother to her twoyear old son, Legend. In her spare time, she owns her own business, Airbrush Artistry. She specializes in airbrush tanning, airbrush and traditional makeup applications and makeup tutorials.

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Heartburn: Signs, Symptoms, Relief By: Gregory DeArmond, M.D., F.A.C.S.

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ith the holiday season upon us, we will all be eating, drinking and having a great time with family and friends. With all the fun of the holidays, heartburn symptoms can really be a pain.

Twenty percent of Americans – one in five individuals – experience heartburn at least once a week. While it’s common, you shouldn’t take heartburn lightly. Frequent indigestion may indicate a serious health problem known as gastroesophageal reflux disease (GERD) – severe or chronic acid reflux that can lead to complications such as sleep disorders, esophageal bleeding or ulcers and cancer.

Heartburn, or indigestion, is that pain in the chest we feel after overeating. It’s caused by stomach acid backing up into the esophagus, the muscular tube that carries food from the throat to the stomach. Overeating isn’t the only cause of acid reflux. It can also be triggered by medications, exercise, obesity, pregnancy, stress, chronic health conditions – such as asthma, diabetes or a hernia – or even sleeping in certain positions.

The signs and symptoms for heartburn and GERD are similar – the difference is generally the frequency and severity of symptoms. Ʉ

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If your heartburn does not respond to lifestyle changes or medications, your doctor will test for GERD. A few methods commonly used to diagnose GERD include an upper GI exam (x-rays of the upper digestive tract), endoscopy (insertion of a flexible tube down the throat to examine the inside of your esophagus and stomach), or an ambulatory acid probe test (monitoring the timing and frequency of stomach acid flowing back into the esophagus, using a catheter or chip inserted in the esophagus).

Medications for GERD include antacids, which neutralize stomach acid for quick relief, but don’t heal the esophagus, H-2 receptor blockers, which reduce acid production, acting slower but lasting longer than antacids to provide symptoms relief, and proton pump inhibitors, which block acid production and heal the esophagus. These medications are also available through your doctor in prescription-strength versions.

When medications fail to relieve GERD, surgery is usually considered. There are minimally invasive procedures offered at Woodland Heights Medical Center to aid in the relief of GERD symptoms.

The gold standard of GERD surgery is a laparoscopic Nissen fundoplication or Toupet fundoplication, where the upper part of the stomach is used to make a “new valve” at the lower aspect of the esophagus (swallowing tube). Transoral Incisionless Fundoplication (TIF) does not require any incisions and is designed to eliminate heartburn. The TIF using the Esophyx device can produce similar results without incisions. This procedure is the ultimate in minimally invasive surgery in that it is incisionless, which means no scars, less pain, and a faster recovery when compared to other surgical options.

For more information, visit www.WoodlandHeights.net and take the reflux symptom self-test on the Heartburn page.

Heartburn symptoms can be controlled with some simple changes in your daily routine. In addition to controlling your diet and food portions, you can find relief by losing weight, avoiding tight-fitting clothing, quitting smoking, eating slowly, drinking water, and timing your meals at least two to three hours before bedtime, so you’re not going to bed on a full stomach.

42 / The Journey - December 2012

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tjmag.com / 43

YOURBODY | LIFE CHANGE

oni Rios has plenty of motivation to get her family healthy. She has six beautiful children and a family history that is plagued with obesity and weight-related health issues.

After losing so many relatives and nearly losing her mother, she knew she had to get control of her own family’s eating habits.

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Before their “clean eating journey” began, several of her children were already struggling with their weight, and it was starting to effect more than their physical bodies. Joni remembers, “My daughter hated her body and tried to hide herself in baggy clothes and my son had stopped playing sports in fear of his peers making fun of him.”

“I can make time for us to be healthy now, or I will have to make time for us to be sick later.

My kids aren’t junk and shouldn’t be fed junk.”

She started making changes to her meals the first weekend in July, but she went full force with the switch when school started this past fall. Joni abides by two rules when choosing foods for her family: no processed foods and no foods with GMO’s (genetically modified ingredients). She explains, “GMO’s are in almost everything, and in the twenty years they have been in our foods, the rates of cancer, autism, allergies, ADHD, birth defects, learning disorders and many other devastating conditions have greatly increased.”

Some might think that this type of eating requires too much time and preparation for a busy, growing family. Joni says, “Anything that is worth doing is usually hard, but it does get easier!” She has learned to stock her freezer with healthy meals to use when she is stretched for time. She believes that when it comes to food,

the rios family simple is better. Her children have learned to appreciate their new way of eating, some quicker than others. She admits there have been tears shed on both ends, but she has never regretted the changes she has made. She explains, “I have six children and time is limited for me, but you make time for what you know is important. I can make time for us to be healthy now, or I will have to make time for us to be sick later. My kids aren’t junk and shouldn’t be fed junk.”

Through this process, Joni has become passionate about learning how to garden and provide fresh food for her family. She admits that it is hard to find organic produce, so she

is working on creating a 2-acre organic garden for the spring.

She also has plans to build a chicken coop to provide her family with organic eggs.

She originally began her clean eating quest to lose weight, but now it has become a lifestyle. She says, “This is not a diet that you get on to lose weight and then go back to eating whatever; this is just how we eat now.” So far, Joni has lost 27 lbs and dropped 4 clothing sizes. She has more energy and is enjoying shinier hair and skin. Her depression has also subsided. Her children have lost a combined total of 60 lbs and are enjoying sports and a positive self-image.

PLACESANDFACES

Southside Baptist Church Ladies Night

46 / The Journey - December 2012

Your Child pretty babies 48 parent thoughts 50 look at me 51 birthday bash 53 why i love being a mom 54

YOURCHILD | PRETTY BABIES

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1. Camille Renee’ Calda. 1/5/12. Proud Parents: Keith & Kari Calda. 2. Parker Alan Day. 5/25/12. Proud Parents: Patrick & Leslie Day (Lufkin). Proud Grandparents: David & Darlene Allen (Lufkin) / Mike & Jill Carswell (Lufkin). 3. Mia Renee Iribarren. Proud Parents: Rafael & Gina Iribarren. 4. Aspen Brooke McDonald. 1/25/12. Proud Parents: Micheal & Ashley McDonald. Proud Grandparents: Sherry Brooks (Lufkin, TX) / Mac & Tracy McDonald (Lufkin, TX). 5. Hosanna Montelongo. 7/3/12. Proud Parents: Nicole Rhodes & Joe Montelongo. Proud Grandparents: Mark & Candi Rhodes (Lufkin, TX) / Juan & Maria Montelongo (Lufkin, TX). 6. Khloe Lou Morado. 7/27/12. Proud Parents: Francisco & Diana Morado (Diboll, TX). Proud Grandparents: David & Minga Silva (Diboll, TX) / Jesus & Yolanda Castor (Diboll, TX) / Gregorio & Deborah Morado (Corrigan, TX). 7. Braxton Slade Oliver. 9/5/12.

Proud Parents: Dylan & Lacy Oliver. 8. Makenzie Taylor-Faith Steveson. 11/22/11. Proud Parents: Sonya Harper & Matt Steveson. Proud Grandparents: O’Dale & Stephanie Harper / Julie Steveson.

E-­mail Pretty Babies submissions to prettybabies@tjmag.com. Please include the information seen above. Submissions are free of charge.

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by Kelly Finnerud

YOURCHILD | PARENT THOUGHTS

more than tiny footsteps rom the time I was a little girl, I imagined myself growing up to be a cool high-schooler, a smart college student, a beautiful bride, and a mommy with little kids crawling around at my feet. The thing is it never occurred to me to think about what might come next. My kids are not babies and toddlers anymore, and next year all my children will be in elementary school. It’s altogether exciting and scary!

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I had no idea how quickly I’d forget little details of pregnancy and life with babies that were so important while living it. Like how many scoops of formula per ounce of water, how long each eat, play, sleep cycle should be, and the names of products that once were everyday use, like Lansinoh.

(Yep, I had to look that up.) But then I recently babysat an infant and fed him baby food. It all flooded back for a few fleeting moments. I found myself signing, “More?” to him and saying, “Hands down, please.” Words I repeated so many times every day, but sometime, without realizing, it ceased. However, I will never forget how tired I was, and I will always be thankful for a full night’s sleep.

I once read a book where the author talked about no longer hearing the pitter patter of little feet in his home, and I remember thinking how much I dreaded that day.

And here I am now. My boys’ footsteps can hardly be considered pitter patter, and my daughter’s footsteps are usually drowned out by her jabbering or yelling about something. However, I didn’t realize that I’d love this new stage of “more than tiny footsteps” even more. It’s a time where soccer cleats means hearing my son explain how 30% chance of rain on game day means there’s 70% chance of no rain. Slippers in their rooms make me think of how they curl up in their beds at

50 / The Journey - December 2012

night to read to themselves. Tennis shoes with those stinky socks remind me to pray for their time at school every day when they live their lives out from under my wings.

This may sound silly, but I didn’t know how much I’d love my kids at this age!

Before we had children, I led a kindergarten VBS class for a week. I managed it, and we had fun....at least, the kids did. I did not like it one bit. So now while my 1st and 2nd graders seem to be trying to develop their own style of “humor,” (And that’s in quotes, because really, it’s not funny) it’s unbelievable how much I still love them and their friends, too. But please don’t ever ask me to teach young elementary students or preschoolers or babies. It’s just not “my thing.”

I never realized until now how few stayat-home moms there are at this stage in life. I guess I took it for granted that my own mom was always home with us. Last year, many of my friends started going back to work. At first it didn’t seem like a big deal, but then I began to realize how much I miss playgroups and that adult interaction during the day. Surely there are other elementary kids’ mothers at home. Maybe I can’t discuss anymore how many times I’m up nursing each night or what color my baby’s poop is, but I’m still a mom. I still like to drink coffee and talk about parenthood.

I think the biggest surprise to me is not knowing what I’d do AFTER staying home with kids. In thinking about college, I debated between majoring in music and math. My mom always said with music I’d be able to stay home with my young children and teach private lessons, and I enjoy that now. However I never considered what I’d do after my children weren’t quite so young anymore. I was a band director

for a few years before having kids, and I loved it! I’m passionate about students learning to read and understand music and seeing their faces light up when they hear themselves play something they never thought they could. But the hours are longer than regular school hours and often involve Friday nights and Saturdays.

What will I do next year? I don’t know. I love writing ParentThoughts.com, but it sure isn’t going to take my family to Disney World or buy us a newer car. (So watch out local business owners; I just may come knocking on your door looking for work!)

I feel as though I’m entering a great undreamt of territory, which only the Creator has planned. It’s no longer, “What do I want to be when I grow up?” because now I’m all grown up, and my children are headed that way, too. I’m smiling, looking at my past in awe and standing in front of my open future with contentment.

Kelly Finnerud and husband, Ryan, have 3 energetic kids, Aidan (7), Trace (5) and Emmy (3). They have been married 10 years. Ryan is a worship pastor at Grace Bible Church in Nacogdoches, and Kelly has a music education degree and has been a band director in the area until staying home with young children. Kelly writes for ParenThoughts.com, an online resource sharing local activities, parenting stories and anything else kid-related in our area.

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1. Kylee Burton, 6yrs old. 1st tooth (10/15/12). 2. Soccer Girls! 3. Asher & Bennett Hearne. 4. Victoria & Arren. 5. Zoie Driscoll & Maci Ross at Zoie’s rodeo (10/11/12). 6. Chase Driscoll won first place in Hudson fun run (10/06/12). 7. Stella Huckabee, Karli Wilson & Laurel Ainsworth at the Houston Museum of Natural Science. 8. Mike, Courtney, Haylee, and Chance Shumway. 9. Nate Driscoll racing in Houston (10/7/12). 10. State Finalists: Crown Colony Country Club 14U Intermediate junior team tennis players are Abhi Rashiwala, Jace Mahan, Sarah Beth Bates, Caroline Chance, Kristina Johnson, Assistant Head Pro Andres Quijada, and John Ellis.

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Send a photo of your child & information to photos@tjmag.com.

Submissions are free of charge.

photographed by Lisa Crow

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Diboll Day Parade

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|

BIRTHDAY BASH YOURCHILD

Allie-Gwyn’s Big Day llie-Gwyn Wright enjoyed all of her favorite things that made her 4th birthday one to remember. Her mother, Lindsey, says, “Allie Gwyn is obsessed with the movie The Wizard of Oz. So, we wanted to bring it to life for her.”

They started with the invitations. They recreated some of the scenes with a “themed photo shoot.” The party was held at the First Baptist Church Family Life Center, and it was fun for all ages- babies to her grandparents. When guests arrived, they walked down the yellow brick road. The party was complete with photobooth pictures.

Every child left with a personalized thank you card with their picture on it, so they could remember Allie-Gwyn’s special day. There were clowns twisting silly animals and hats. We had a small bounce house for babies (the sign said munchkins only) and a large bounce house for big kids, so no one got hurt. The movie was playing on the stage throughout the party, so the kids felt as if they were in Oz. When the children left, they received a book instead of candy. This was something they could keep and not get cavities.

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YOURCHILD | WHY I LOVE BEING A MOM

NATALIE DICKERSON

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t’s 6 A.M. The alarm goes off and another day begins. I take a deep breath and roll out of bed…

I turn on the shower for my daughter (It is her turn, right?), wake up the other four, start breakfast for all five (plus my husband), go wake them all up, again, make sack lunches while reminding them to finish eating, clear the table, brush teeth, get dressed, feed the dogs, feed the pigs, settle in for Bible lesson, hugs and kisses bye to daddy, out the door and on to school by 7:35! Take another breath…

Off to the gym to teach a fitness class, grocery shopping with my toddler (put that back on the shelf, Jase), back home, read some books together, down for nap (the two year old, not me…never), clean the house, fold laundry, begin preparing supper, back to school to pick up the kids, and rush home for a snack. Gather yourself now…

“Time for chores!” Gather the eggs, start your homework, clean up that mess, stop fighting, off to piano lessons for two, back home to turn off the oven, two more to baseball practice (Hi, Dad) and pick up the others.

Supper, finish homework, baths, brush teeth, prayers. Good night and I love you!

And that was just Tuesday! I love being a Mom, and if you’re one too, you know just how satisfying that frantic description can be. Austin (12), Aaron (10), Tyler (8), Jayden (6), and Jase (2); I’ve been blessed with five fun-loving and excitable kids and a wonderful husband and helper of nearly 14 years! In between baseball, basketball, 4-H, hunting, gymnastics, cross-country and band, I’ve also been blessed with having some time for myself teaching fitness classes at LiveWell every day. I get to be surrounded with other moms and grand moms who are living the same crazy life as me, and if you asked them all, none would trade a minute of it.

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Never has my life found more meaning than since I became a mom. Being a mom helps me not be so selfish, impatient, and petty.

Rarely does a mom have time to think about herself, because she gives her all to her children. My children are my responsibility, because they are precious gifts from God, and who will nurture them, if not me? Children make you a better person, because they are always watching and learning from you.

You have to try even harder to be a good example for them. It is the toughest, yet most satisfying job in the world. I feel lucky to have it, even if the salary is a little low!

a loving husband and a wonderful church family, I always have the support I need to get through the tougher days. It really helps knowing that other moms have times when they, too, lock themselves in the closet for a good cry! At the end of the day, it’s all worth it when my daughter comes to me and asks, “Momma, do you know what I want to be when I grow up?” and I say, “What?” She says, “I want to be a momma like you!” It keeps me going through the crazy days knowing my efforts will have a meaningful impact on the sort of person each of my children chooses to be.

I can remember growing up; all I ever wanted to do was be a mother. I sure got what I asked for! All of my children have different personalities and needs. What works for one doesn’t always work for another, so I am always learning and always on my toes!

It definitely gets exhausting, but with prayer,

Behold, children are a heritage from the Lord, the fruit of the womb a reward. Like arrows in the hand of a warrior are the children of one’s youth. Blessed is the man who fills his quiver with them! ƝƝɄ . '(ɄųŴŹƈŵƝŷ

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Nacogdoches Junior Forum Holiday in the Pines

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