TJMAG // DEC 2016 by Suzy Childers

EXCLUSIVE:

| C H

A DK INSON & K ING FA MILIE S

GIFT GU ID E

2017's CINNA MON ROLL S

CHR ISTM A S

Wonderland

HOME

COMMUNITY

LIFE & STYLE

GROWING UP

New Guns

BUSINESS

SPORTS & OUTDOORS

YOUR

LASIK JOURNEY

STARTS HERE LEHMANN EYE CENTER

$500 Holiday savings 5300 North Street  Nacogdoches, TX 75965  LehmannEyeCenter.com  800-753-3846  936-569-8278

PRE SI DE NT'S O F F I CE hen this time of year rolls around, you either look forward to it like a kid on Christmas Eve night or dread it like you dread waiting for a phone call from your accountant with the amount you owe in taxes. There is that saying I love so much, ' Today is a good day to have a good day'. Even if you are dreading the holidays, why not have the outlook of having a good day! You can easily get lost in the parties, plays and programs, lunches, gifts, and fundraisers. You can let that consume you or you can put your heart in the right place by visiting a nursing home, adopting a family, or working the Lufkin Dream Center's Christmas feed. There's something about asking a child who will not open Christmas gifts on Christmas morning what they want for Christmas and having the tell you they cannot think of a thing. It really puts things into perspective. It really humbles you and reminds you of the Christmas spirit. It's not about wants and needs. It's about being Jesus to someone. It's about loving your neighbor. It's about teaching our children it is better to give than receive. That is what makes me look forward to the holiday season. The holidays are a time where you can easily get wrapped up in the busyness, or you can use it as a time of giving.. May you know the fullness and absolute wonders of His love this Christmas! We love you! STEPHANIE OLIVER

PRESIDENT

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CO NTE NTS

12 24 HOME 12

HOME TOUR

IN THE KITCHEN

GREEN THUMB

LIFE & DESIGN

BURLAP & BESTIES

OH CHRISTMAS TREE

COMMUNITY 32

ADKINSON STORY

211 HOUSE MARKET

FAVORITE THINGS GIFT GUIDE

ALEX SHAW

THE DEBNEY HOUSE

DIY ESSENTIALS

AUTHORS

STRETCH MARKS

SOMETHING ABUNDANT

48 I DO

44 PLACES & FACES

LIFE

CO NTE NTS

GROWING UP 60

CHILDREN'S CLINIC

HUNTINGTON HS

LOOK AT ME

PRETTY BABIES

80 president: Stephanie Oliver managing editor: Beth Johnson editor@tjmag.com staff writer: Cami Rhome

BUSINESS

editorial photographer: Rikki Trotti

#GIRLBOSS

event photographer: Lisa Crow

LEADERSHIP

#HOMEGROWN

RIBBON CUTTINGS

POLITICS

SPORTS & OUTDOORS 84

JOSH TOMLIN #43

NATURE'S EYE

"MAN STUFF" GIFT GUIDE

EVANS BROS

TROPHY PAGE

layout and design: Samantha Miller contributors:

Tiffani Brantner Crown of Thorns/Brenda hubbard Stella Watson Melissa Radke Melissa Stokes Angie Nichols Majal Minguez Spring and Prince Cory Ryan Jarrod Anderson Natures Eye/ Emily Courtney

distribution: Elizabeth Bernius

Lufkin, Texas 75915

Physical: 115 E. Shepherd

Lufkin, Texas 75901 936-634-7188 advertise@tjmag.com facebook.com/tjmag twitter.com/tjmeast

CHR ISTM AS

Wonderland | photo credit LISA CROW PHOTOGRAPHY

B R I G H T

Kaylee Sullivan is the owner of The Pink Leopard in downtown Lufkin. Her fashion and personality light up any room, especially in her own

home.

Kaylee's

bachelorette pad is a perfect reflection of her, but especially during the Christmas season.Â

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TJM AG &CO // H O M E

M ER RY

H O M E TO U R

EEP L S TO

S NU G G L E IN AND FAL AL A TO S L EEP

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TJM AG &CO //H O M E

W ELCO M E

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H O M E

WAR M & COZ Y

H O M E TO U R

TJM AG &CO //H O M E

CLAWFO OT CHRIST M AS

The excitement of children at Christmas is indescribable.

oy. Won J . de ish

Beyond Ordinar y. Extraordinar y.

MERRY CHRISTMAS

Private tours available. Call 936-632-1720. 1115 S. John Redditt Dr. • Lufkin, TX • saintcyprians.org

I N TH E KI TCH E N

with Debney House's JENN MIRANDA

My cinnamon rolls are a unanimous fall favorite amongst the tribe. Don't be intimidated by the task of rolling the dough. The only thing that matters is that each roll has a sizable ooeygooey center.Â Am I right?

CINNA MO N

ROLLS

1 qt whole m ilk 1 cup ca nola oi l 1 cup suga r 4 1/2 teas poon ac tive dr y yeast 9 cups al l-pur pose flour 1 heaping teas poon ba ki ng powder 1 sc ant teas poon ba ki ng soda 1 heaping tables po on sa lt 4 st ic ks melted br ow n butter* 2 cups suga r Cin na mon to spri nk le

RECIPE:

ROLL S

FROSTING

1 ba g powdered su ga r (get the good st uff. You ca n ta ste the di fference.) 1/2 - 3/4 cup who le m ilk 1/4 cup brow n sa lted butter For ma ke ah ea d rolls - assembl e rolls an d po p tightly cove red pa n in to freezer be fore secon d ris e. W he n rea dy to ba ke , rem ove fro m fre ezer an d allow to th aw on coun ter be fore ba ki ng.

Preheat oven to 375Â°.

I lik e to use di sposab le pi e pa ns for this rec ipe.

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FA L L FAVOR I T E For the dough, heat the milk canola oil and sugar in a sauce pan over medium heat, stirring occasionally until the ingredients are incorporated completely. Allow to cool to warm (not room temperature) and then sprinkle yeast on top of milk mixture. Allow to yeast to sit for a few minutes before beginning next step. Add 8 cups of f lour (remember to reserve one cup). Stir with wooden spoon until dough just begins to combine. Cover and set aside to rise for one hour. Pour slightly less than 1 cup of the melted brown butter and spread over surface of dough with your fingers. They're the best tools in your kitchen! Combine cinnamon and sugar and sprinkle the mixture generously over your butter slathered dough, remembering the edge closest to you will be the center, so don't be stingy with the good stuff now! Beginning at the edge of the dough closest to you, curl the dough up and over itself, away from you, forming the center of your roll. I like to work from left to right, gently rolling and tucking as I go. Don't worry about the ooze that seems to be getting everywhere. That's the universal sign for cinnamon bliss. Continue rolling the dough, being careful to keep it tight, until you have one long cinnamon roll. Gently slice log into 1/2" pieces. Each log should yield about 24 rolls. Pour 1 tablespoon of melted brown butter in each pan and swirl to cover bottom. (I use disposable pie pans when preparing this recipe for gift giving.) Gently

place each roll in your buttered pan, being careful not to over crowd. Each pan holds 7 - 9 rolls. Cover with clean towel and place in warm area to rise for about 30 minutes. Repeat the entire process with second half of dough. Remove cover from pans and place in oven. Bake for 15 to 18 minutes, or until golden. Do not overcook. While the rolls are in the oven, make your icing. In a large bowl add the powdered sugar, 1/2 cup of milk and melted brown butter. Whisk well. If icing is too thick, add more milk slowly until desired thinness is achieved. Remove pans from oven and add icing immediately, making sure to cover each roll well. They're fantastic out of the oven, but only get better as they sit.

* To make brown butter, begin melting butter over medium heat. Listen carefully and you will hear the water begin to evaporate. Once the butter begins to foam, stir occasionally to observe its color. Your butter will progress from yellow to a caramel brown. Watch it very carefully to prevent burning. Once you smell that delicious nutty aroma, remove from pan and cool slightly before adding to icing mixture.

Jen Miranda owns and operates the Debney House with her husband Marc in Jasper, Texas. The Debney House is 163 years old and rich with history. The Debney House is open Tuesday - Saturday. For more information visit their Facebook or call 832-385-4962.

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TJM AG &CO //H O M E

s ' n n e J

G RE E N TH U M B

with Crown of Thorns Nursery

C R OW N O F T H O R NS | THE CHRIST PLANT | When going into business, my wife Brenda and I were searching for a name for the nursery we purchased from Rex Lowery. After much thought she came up with Crown of Thorns Nursery. This was actually named after a plant that we both love and grow at the nursery. Crown of thorns is a succulent and comes in many sizes, colors and leaf variations. This plant is very easy to grow for those who don’t have a green thumb; you simply water when soil is dry and make sure to give it bright sun or light. The plant simulates the Crown that our Lord Jesus Christ was forced to wear during his crucifixion. It is also known as “The Christ Plant” and the f lowers almost look like drops of blood. Every time we sell one of these plants, we enjoy sharing the story of Christ and His sacrifice for each of us. We share what God did in sending His Son for us so that if we believe in Him we will have everlasting life. The crown of thorns plant allows us the opportunity to share with our customers so they can share with others. Something as small as an unusual plant may be the pivoting moment for someone searching. If you ever have the opportunity to purchase a crown of thorns plant, do it, either here at Crown of Thorns Nursery or wherever you can find one. They are very easy to keep and give you an opportunity to talk about our Lord with your friends and family. We appreciate your business and hope you stop by and take a look at these beautiful plants. Be blessed and have a M E R R Y C H R I S T M A S . B R E N DA

H U B BA R D

R E EC E

Merry Christmas! Merry Christmas! from from Davis Insurance Davis Insurance Protecting Your Greatest Investments Since 1949

3110 South First St. • Lufkin, Texas 75901 • 936-634-2291

DavisDifference.com

LI F E & DE SI G N

SIMPLY H O L I DAY

E ASY

D ECO R AT ING

It’s mid-December and you still haven’t found time to bring down the boxes of holiday décor from the attic? Not to worry! Here are 5 simple ideas that allow you to use what you have to add a special Christmas touch to your home… all in under 10 minutes!

D I Y G A R L A N D Clip branches from the Christmas tree to create a last-minute garland. Place the garland anywhere that people will gather – around the bar, on the mantel, down the center of the table. The more garland, the better!

Hello. I’m Claire, an interior stylist living in Austin, TX with my husband, Parker. I’m the blogger and business owner behind Claire Brody Designs. I specialize in providing unique and one of a kind spaces on an affordable budget.

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TJM AG &CO //H O M E

U S E

W H AT

YO U H AV E Add a bowl of festive fruit that you already have like cranberries or oranges. Pick fresh f lowers and bring them in. Get creative!

G E T T H E K I D S I N VO LV E D Have the kids create “Christmas” art and place it in the frames around the house. If you are having a dinner party, have the kids get creative and make the name cards. Guests will love the special touch!

I N CO R P O R AT E B AS K E TS Use baskets as decor to house holiday related items like garland, ornaments, small gifts, etc.

H A N G O R N A M E N TS . . . E V E RYW H E R E ! Ornaments aren’t limited to the Christmas tree. If you are hosting a dinner, hang ornaments from the chandelier over the dining table for a special touch.

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B U RLAP & B E STI E S

Updated

HOL IDAY

Everyone is crazy for that “Fixer Upper” look this season, and you can easily incorporate it into your holiday decor, as well! Don’t just throw out your outdated decorations; try to give them new life!

C H AL K B OAR D

C R O C K POT

Make serving a little more fun by painting your crockpot!! We already had a mini crockpot that was a little sad looking, but you could easily find one at an estate or garage sale. [FIRST] we cleaned our crockpot really well and then took a sharpie and wrote on the underneath side the “off-lowhigh” knob positions. [NEXT] we used painter's tape around the parts we didn’t want to paint and then we applied our chalkboard paint with a foam brush. Make sure to remove your tape while your paint is still wet! [ONCE] our paint dried, we used a damp paper towel to wipe off any paint that found its way onto our knob and handles. It wipes off plastic really easily, so if you don’t have painter's tape don’t let that stop you! [NOW] mix up some yummy dip for your party and make your guests drool over it. They won't believe how cute your crockpot is!

C HRISTM AS UPDAT E

TR E E

The Christmas trees we used in our olive bucket and large crock looked outdated (their original pots were old and sad) before they got placed in their new homes. Now they are right on trend!

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• • • • •

O F

JOY

Set of 4 indoor window shutters Picture hanging hardware Hammer Wood cutout of word of your choice Greenery of choice

This was the perfect touch to my holiday decor! And bonus...I can exchange the 'joy' for other holiday decor throughout the year!

[FIRST] I spotted these beautiful shutters at Bloom in the Luf kin Farmers Market and couldn't resist them! They were already painted which made me even happier! [NEXT] I put some saw tooth picture hangers on the back and hung them on the wall. [THEN] I attached fishing line to my word, which I found in the dollar spot at Target. I left the fishing line long and untied on one side so I could adjust the length to where I wanted it. [LAST] I stuck some greenery on the top and bottom and called it a day!

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. 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.

TJM AG &CO //H O M E

SI G N

O H CH RI STM AS TRE E !

OH , CHR I

TM A S

M I L L E R FA M I LY

With the beaches empty, hermit crabs roaming, gulls crying, shore birds dancing over the sand, and the soothing sound of waves rolling in, we set-up our Christmas tree. The tree isn't expensive or large. The ornaments are simple yet special; depending on the beach we're camped at our shell ornaments change - it's a surprise every year. We keep the gifts minimal and wrapped in Brookshire Brothers paper grocery bags. Our annual Christmas on the coast is an intimate, nature-filled time for our little family. We embrace the simplicity and serenity of nature during what's usually a stressful time of year.

SA M A N T HA M I L L E R

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D ECORATED BY SHEILA FOR FRANK ENS FA M I LY

CO U RTN EY T H O RN TON

CO N N I E

L AC E Y

WELLS

LUC E

W E L L S

REESA K INGHAM

FA M I LY

Every ornament commemorates a special event in our lives that began our first year of marriage. My mom started the tradition of giving us a special ornament each year and continued as my children were born. I also kept the tradition up with my children and now each grandchild. Some ornaments are gifts from friends, others are from trips we were on, and some that had special meaning as to being significant to a special occasion or event that year. I make sure for the grandchildren each year that it is something that has been significant to each child and I write a short story and date it for them to look back on when they are grown. I turn on the lights first thing in the morning and they are the last lights out at night. We all love Christmas and thoroughly enjoy talking about the ornaments each year. Merry Christmas!

REESA K INGH AM

COURTNEY C O N E R LY HAMBY (follow @Hamby Home Decor)

LINDSEY WARNER

O H CH RI STM AS TRE E !

PA I G E

FA M I LY Our tree is simple and small, but still beautiful. It's the first piece of holiday cheer my husband and I bought together 7 years ago and is still in perfect shape. It has lasted through two toddlers and several moves - we don't plan to retire it any time soon! Merry Christmas!

CHEL SI E PA I G E

H A N E Y FA M I LY

This tree is at my fiancĂŠ, Patrick's, house. It is so special to me because it is our first Christmas tree to buy and decorate together! There's never a shortage of coke bottles in the Haney family, so we threw those in there as well!

TJM AG &CO //H O M E

SAVA N N A H G OLDEN

| photo credit RIKKI TROTTI PHOTOGRAPHY

ADKI NSO N & KI NG FAM I LI E S

SE A SONS

THE

GR IEV ING

GI V ING

A D K I N SON

K ING

FAMILIES

On August 16, 2016 a huge piece of East Texas was taken. The Lanita and Gary Adkinson Family went on a family vacation to Colorado. Gary, Lanita, their son in law, Ryan King, and their son, Bryson were in a terrible Razr accident. Ryan and Bryson were killed in the accident. Gary was seriously injured. Lanita had life threatening injuries, but has since made a lot of progress and is now home.

TJM AG &CO //CO M M U NI TY " W E K N OW RYA N A N D B RYS O N A R E M O R E ALIVE T HAN EVER . We are hurting here because we miss them so much, but Christ's promises tell us they are with Him and are more than okay. It hurts so much to lose your better half and your brother, but I keep telling myself to choose joy, daily. The biggest help for us would be continued prayers for peace and comfort. Both Ryan and Bryson loved Christmas so much, and it will be a difficult time for us as we experience the holiday without them for the first time. For us, it's sad to think about the kids not having their daddies for Christmas. Prayers for all the little ones would be much appreciated, too. They are doing better, but still having a hard time understanding. We would really like to thank our community for standing behind us and lifting us up in every way imaginable. We feel so blessed to live in such an awesome place that believes in coming together to hold one another up. If we had lived anywhere else, I don't believe we would have received anywhere near the amount of help we did here. I've never been so proud to be a part of this community," Brittany King.

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ADKI NSO N & KI NG FAM I LI E S

RYA N

BR I T TA N Y

A DK I NSON-K I NG

Ryan King was married to Brittany and the pastor of Holly Springs Baptist Church. They have two sons, Beckham and Britton. Holly was married to Bryson. They have one daughter, Kennedy.

" I b el ieve Rya n a nd Br yson l ive d t hei r l ive s to t he f u l le st . We a re proud of t he i nc re d ible ex a mple s t hey were to a l l a nd st r ive to l ive honor able l ive s a s wel l . I t h i n k t hei r l ive s a re such a repre s ent at ion of Ch r i st 's love for u s ."

From the outside looking in, I know everyone is amazed at the two young women in the center of the storm, Brittany and Holly. They are the picture of strength, compassion, faith, joy, and trust. To see their faith lived out minute by minute, day by day, week by week brings so much strength and comfort to everyone around them. There have been so many reassuring moments for them that God has them in the palm of their hand. "From the beginning the Lord has given us little blessings that let us know how much we are loved. I know that He will continue to hold us even when we feel the world is crashing in on us," said Brittany. One blessing is Brittany and Holly live right next door to each other. Brittany said, "Holly and Bryson bought a house. Not too long after, a house was being built next door. Bryson said to me, ‘You and Ryan should buy that house.’ I thought, ‘Does my brother really want me to live next door to him?’ It didn't take much convincing because I thought it was a great idea." God is good to take care of those details knowing Holly and Brittany would need each other. "As much as I hate that we are both going through this because it means we lost both boys, there's not a person out there that understands me any better than my sister-in-law." "I believe Ryan and Bryson lived their lives to the fullest. We are proud of the incredible examples they were to all and strive to live honorable lives, as well. I think their lives are such a representation of Christ's love for us. This tragedy is such proof that we are not promised tomorrow. When we set out for Colorado, we had no idea we would be returning without our husbands. You always hear of stories and never expect it to be you, but this made us realize the urgency in making every second of your life count," Brittany King.

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TJM AG &CO // CO M M U NI TY BRYSON

HOL LY

A DK I NSON

Holly Adkinson says, "Honestly I think the biggest thing we pray that will come out of this testimony we have been given is to basically realize that God is all knowing and in control of every detail of our lives. We just pray this will bring so many closer to Christ and deeper in their faith. God has shown us so much. I feel like our eyes can finally see the ‘bigger picture’ of life and how in control God is. He literally is the reason we can keep going each day and has giving us such precious reminders that he is here walking down this journey with us. I feel like our faith is more deeply rooted than it has ever been, and we are so very thankful for that. The missing of the boys will never go away, but I know we both feel so blessed to have been married to such amazing men. We are thankful for the lives we both have been given. Even though we never dreamed this would happen to us, we will continue to praise God for all that He does." Through this tragedy, Holly and Brittany have had to wear many hats. Daughter, Sister, Wife, Friend, but most importantly mom. Being Beckham, Britton, and Kennady’s mom has pushed them through this. Kids do not understand rest, quiet, relax, or thinking time. All they know is to go full speed ahead. In those moments, their father's lives can be seen in their eyes, in their actions, and in their words. Brittany said, "Ryan's podcasts from Holly Springs Baptist Church are so helpful to me and comforting to know my boys will have them in the future. His last sermon series, Elevate, has given many a new perspective on life, and it makes me so happy God gave him that message on his way out."

"A s much a s I h ate t h at we a re b ot h goi n g t h rough t h i s b e c au s e it me a n s we lo st b ot h b oys , t here's not a p er son out t here t h a n u nder st a nd s me a ny b et ter t h a n my si ster-i n-l aw."

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211 H O U SE M ARKE T

211 House Market is primarily an online store. TheÂ signs come in 6 standard sizes. They consist of stained wood frames and basic fabric canvas. Multiple designs are available. Tifah's initial vision when starting the market was all custom signs made to order.

There is always a full stock of our standard sizes and designs in Bloom or you can order from the website, www.211housemarket.com. If you are interested in consulting for custom orders contact info@211housemarket.com.Â

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The idea of 211 House Market came from a lot of encouragement from the people around them. "We created items for our home, due to convenience and originality. We honestly never thought of posting these things or creating them for others. However, after continuous flattering and humbling comments, the idea of creating and selling began to form."

TJM AG &CO // CO M M U NI TY

Some of God's greatest blessings in life arrive unplanned. Alex and Tifah Fleniken are two very busy individuals. During the day, she is a registered nurse at Luf kin Middle School. Alex is full time at both New Life Luf kin, where he has served as the Worship pastor for the past 11 years, and at Real Graphics, where he works alongside his brother Chris (no they are not twins). Tifah has a great, creative eye. As they were making their house a home, she and her husband would create things for their house to be a reflection of them. Little by little, a new business venture was being born.

The Fleniken's chose 211 House Market for the name of the company. "Our first house was a rent home located at 211 House Street. This was an older home and needed much tender love and care, but we didn’t mind. In this home, we actually tapped into our creative home décor line and tried to make the space God had given us as nice as possible. When we moved out of 211 House Street into our current home, my sisterin-law, Emily Fleniken, created a beautifully framed illustrated image of “211”, as we called it. I cried. It is still one of the most treasured things I own today." In August of 2016, the journey for 211 House Market began. They worked with Real Graphics creating a website along with other marketing techniques. Saturday, October 1, 2016 the website, Facebook page, and Instagram page all went live. On this same day, Bloom, began to carry their signs. "Bloom approached us about carrying them 7 days prior. The timing was only God’s grace and favor."

"In my home we have a custom sign that actually covers an entire wall. It is as big as what would fit through my front door. It truly is a piece of art to me, and one of my most favorite pieces in my home. Although standard designs and sizes can be found online and in Bloom, we have a passion to work with the imagination of people who love home décor and have specific sign ideas. I have consulted with several people who have really caught our vision and have requested very custom pieces. A large wedding reception menu is an example of one, as well as another floor to ceiling wall piece like described earlier in my home. These projects are very rewarding and so unique. My husband and I make these signs homemade, in our garage, almost daily. We are thankful for this opportunity God has given us to not only create things we love together, but to bring extra income to our family, as well."

FAVO RI TE TH I NG S - G I F T G U I DE

GIFT G U I D E

SPRING & PRINCE Capriblue Candle

THE VERY THING Kendra Scott Drusy Necklace

THE PINK LEOPARD Metallic Corkcicle

MILLER'S POINT

Burbon & Bowties Bracelet

MARTERES TEA ROOM Gallon of Almond Tea

CROWN.JULES.STITCHING@GMAIL.COM Custom Family Cross Stitch

BLOOM

211 House Market Sign

TJM AG &CO // CO M M U NI TY DERMATOLOGY ASSOC. OF NAC WARTHAN DERMATOLOGY DR. HAFERNICK DR. TODD

M&S PHARMACY BedStu Booties

Facials

NAC EYE ASSOCIATES Gold-framed Polarized RayBans

CAVANAUGHS

Seiko Silver Ladies Watch SKY737

JOHNSONS FURNITURE

Bridgewater Candle

BEARDS

John Hardy Gem Bracelet

COBURNS

Yeti Hopper 12, Soft-sided Cooler

ALE X SH AW

I G AV E YO U

YO U G AV E M E M I N E

"We're excited for the future and for the newest little Shaw. We know it will bring us such joy. That alone makes our life exciting, and now we look forward to another day. We know one day this life will be over and we'll see Dane again, and that alone gives us hope. We hope as this child grows up that they will know and love their brother as if he was here with us."

You may recognize the name Alex Shaw for her photography skills. In 2013, the unthinkable happened. Her son, Dane, and her mother died in a house fire. The last three years have been a long road. Although nothing will ever take that hurt away, the Shaws now have a little more joy in their lives. Alex found out in August that she and her husband, Justin, are expecting a child. "When Dane passed, I said I didn't know if I could ever love another child like I love him. I wasn't sure if I ever wanted another one. But as a couple of years passed, we decided we wanted to try again."

Alex shares, "I plan to parent the same as I did Dane. The only thing I'll do different is take more time off work. When Dane was younger I had just started photography, so I was working 24/7 to get it off the ground. After he passed, that was my biggest regret. I should have slowed down and spent that extra few hours outside or at the park with him instead of editing. I'll definitely take more time for family. I know how precious time is, and I'll spend the rest of my life making it up to Dane by spending as much time with this child as I can. The quote that says, 'I gave you life, but really you gave me mine,' makes me think of Dane, because he gave me a wonderful life. It's a life worth while, and I know he'll have a huge part in the next chapter of our life."

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DE B NE Y H O U SE

There is a staple to the town of Jasper known as

The Gingerbread Trail.

It was a seasonal Christmas boutique. The couple who owned it would welcome people into their home to shop. Â People would come from miles around to shop at The Gingerbread Trail. The time had come for them to sell. A couple by the name of Marc and Jen Miranda thought this could be a perfect fit for them.Â

163 YEARS The Debney House is open Tuesday - Saturday. For more information visit their Facebook or call 832-385-4962.

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Jen married and had children. Their family lived on Tiki Island when Hurricane Ike hit and evacuated to Lake Sam Rayburn. "After the storm passed, we did not have much to return to. Marc and I found ourselves deciding that we had landed in the place we wanted to raise our family. The idea of giving our four girls small town roots resonated with us, and we made the decision to stay." “I can't say that I ever dreamed of being a retail business owner; I'm known more for my cooking skills. While the kitchen is where I am comfortable, where I feel the most like "me", I also love being surrounded by beautiful things. I'm delighted when something is not only beautiful to look at, but also useful in a utilitarian way. I have always had a penchant for finding beautiful things, and when I find something I love I want to share it with the people I love. My husband, or ‘sweet feller’ as I like to call him, suggested that we open a store with

the beautiful things I find so that my tribe can also have the same beautiful things. While it is not nearly as much fun as giving items away, it does come closer to paying for our girls' educations." The Miranda's decided to purchase The Gingerbread Trail, but knew opening their home was not a good fit for their family. The search began for the perfect spot. That is when they found the Debney House. "We knew that this was the place, and as we placed an offer. We prayed asking for God to bless this adventure, and if it was the spot for us I promised myself and God that I would work as hard as I could. God has certainly held my feet to the fire on that one.” The Debney House is 163 years old and is rich with history. Mrs. Debney was someone who loved to love. Jen shares, “If anything, that is the cry of my heart; it's healing hurting people and loving them to freedom.” From the stories that have been shared, Mrs. Debney had the same heart for others. She made a home that welcomed people through time and history, loving them back to freedom and restoration. The Mirandas want to continue that legacy. “If there is any legacy worth leaving behind, it is the legacy of love, and The Debney house is full of love and laughter. It is truly the perfect fit for The Gingerbread Trail, myself, and the entire Miranda family.”

TJM AG &CO // CO M M U NI TY

en grew up in the river bottoms of Plum Grove, Texas. Those river banks and dirt roads are where she learned the importance of having roots and wings, the necessity of childhood friendships, and to be fearless, even when failure is the most likely possibility. After she graduated high school without a plan, she has not had one since. "I've always been a g ypsy at heart and just wanted to be somewhere that offered more - anything."

TOAST

TJM AG&CO // PLAC E S & FACE S

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DENI M

TJ M AG &CO //PLACES & FACES

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DI A M O N DS

CATTL E

BARON 'S

GALA

2016

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TJMAG&CO //PLAC E S & FAC E S

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TJ MAG &CO // I DO

Please submit your bridal, wedding or anniversary digital photo to be published free of charge to photo@tjmag.com.

[TOP L-TO-R] BROOKE + RANDALL MARTIN October 22, 2016, Photographer Laurie Cordray Photography, Southern Bliss, Nacogdoches. ZACH WATSON + MORGAN BERGER. LESLIE MICHELE + JACOB DAVID PATTERSON October 22, 2016, El Rancho Verde in the Pines, Photo by Kylie White, Dress custom Martina Laina pearl embellished lace gown. [BOTTOM L-TO-R] CHANDLER + ADAM LOWTHER October 22, 2016, at the home of Beverly and Tom Havard (the Bride's grandparents), Photographer: Samantha Paul, Makeup: Amy Jo Loony, Hair: Cassie Mallon. KATY + KEVIN GENTRY October 22, 2016, Shelton's Place, Photographer: Sarah Harbuck, Harbuck and Co., Hair: Brenda Weaver, Makeup: Ashley Conlon, Wedding Coordinator: Connie Wells. [OPPOSITE] KATY GENTRY Photographer: Sarah Harbuck, Harbuck and Co.

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Your life, Your style.

MR 2 9 16 / M R 2892

ESSENTIAL OIL WORKSHOPS: Healing Oils of the Bible { January 13 } 6pm, Friday Begin the New Year with this Bible study and learn about the 12 essential oils directly mentioned in the Scriptures. Then, make and take a ‘Believe’ roll on, ‘Sacred Mountain’ roll on and ‘Abundance’ air spray! Just Add Oils { January 21 } 1pm, Saturday Make and Take a laundry detergent, foaming hand soap and household cleaner. Be My Valentine { February 3 & 10 } 6pm, Friday

Proud to serve the East Texas Region!

For Ladies Only!!! This class is a girlfriend’s guide to using essential oils between the sheets. Learn the top Oils for Romance for him and for her!!! Make and Take natural lubes, inner thigh potions, and love stroking oil base! Wink! Hello OILS!

Specializing in: • General dermatology • Skin cancer prevention and treatment • Cosmetic dermatology

Michaela Overturf, MD

Call and schedule today:

936-585-7700 3611 North Street, Suite 140 Nacogdoches, Texas 75965 Dermatologynac.com

{ February 18 } 1pm, Saturday Whether you just got started or thinking about infusing your life with essential oils, this class is a great first step in learning the basics of essential oil, usage guidelines and safety precautions.

Majal Minguez and her family live in Lufkin. Her youngest son is on the Autism Spectrum. In their journey to recover him from Autism, the family has learned that detoxifying his body and their house are major pieces of the puzzle to Autism Recovery. Want to register for workshops? All workshops are held at Oil Drops DIY shop at 911 Ellis Avenue in Lufkin. Want more information? Follow on Facebook at “WhollyMerry Majal Minguez” or reach me at whollymerry@yahoo.com or 936.634.4282.

Christmas and winter are the perfect times to SPRUCE up your home! The Blue Spruce conifer is the most symmetrical of trees to use for a Christmas tree. It has a scent that is physically grounding, refreshing and calming. In our home, we SPRUCE UP by enjoying an essential oil, distilled from the branches, needles and twigs of the Idaho Blue Spruce. As this tree stands tall and withstands extremely harsh weather conditions, the fragrance of this exquisite

essential oil provides a deep sense of peace and security … allowing us to stand tall and be courageous as we ponder and seek our life’s purpose for the new year!

Physically, this magnificent oil helps with muscle aches, supports bone function, helps balance male hormones, aids in muscle relaxation and improves libido.

Idaho Blue Spruce is my top oil of choice for Emotional Trauma Clearing. Applied topically on your forehead or below the belly button, it can release emotional blocks and deep-seated emotional trauma.

I am so thankful that God has provided this oil to support our health and well-being; this will be a perfect addition to your essential oil collection. Merry Christmas and remember to SPRUCE IT UP this year and the years to come!

SPRUCE IT UP MUSCLE RUB 2 tbsp. organic coconut oil 10 drops Young Living Idaho Blue Spruce essential oil 10 drops Young Living Copaiba essential oil 2 oz. glass salve container

(Melt coconut oil over low heat. Add Idaho Blue Spruce and Copaiba essential oils. Mix well. Set aside and cool until the mixture returns to solid state. Apply on sore and achy muscles 2x a day or as needed.)

TIPS: • Add 3-4 drops of Idaho Blue Spruce to ½ cup Epsom salt, and add this mixture to your bath tub to sooth achy muscles. • Diffuse 4-6 drops of Idaho Blue Spruce for a woodsy, refreshing scent. • Add 10-20 drops of Idaho Blue Spruce to a 10ml roll on bottle, then fill the rest of the bottle with almond oil. This is a great roll on to use for emotional support or as a cover scent when you

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TJM AG &CO // LI F E

S PRUC E

WRI TTE N TALE NT

Written TA L E N T

B R E N T

COMPTON This is my first book. The idea was giving to me by Mary Lynn Baxter. I was at Livewell Athletic Club one day working out and she approached me and highly recommended that I write my story because not a lot of people get the opportunity to share this type of miraculous story. The writing part all together took me about 5-6 months and roughly another few weeks to get it all organized. I started writing my story at the beginning of 2007 but I got busy with work and other things in life and did not write for many years. Finally in 2014 I decided that I needed to finish writing because I knew that my story needed to be heard and shared with as many people as possible. The publishing part went really quick. It took a totally of 3-4 months from the editing process to having the cover made and ready for reading.

What I would like the community to know about my story is that it can give hope to everyone. Those who are struggling with marriages, relationships, spiritual warfare, alcohol, depression, or even loss of child can find God's love and hope for them through my story. My book is available to purchase at Livewell Athletic Club or you can email me directly to get a copy: comptonb@centralisd.com What I love most about writing this book is the impact I know it will have on everyone. Anyone from all walks of life can gain something very positive from this easy read. I'm really not sure if I'm going to write another book yet. Honestly, I never thought that I would have a first book to share with the world, but I am so thankful that God spared my life to be able to have a story to share.

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TJM AG &CO // LI F E

K ARE N

NO RTON

I wrote and self-published “Connections” in 2014. It was re-published in 2015 by Tate Publishing and given a new title of “Connections Second Edition.” This is a daily devotional that helps the reader read the entire Bible through in a year in chronological order. Its purpose is to help the reader fall in love with God’s Word, learn to self-fed, and take personal responsibility for their own spiritual growth and maturity.

Jamie’s story. They loved her story (the verbal version) and wanted it! So they took “Connections” and made it their own and gave me a contract on “Mom, Our family has lived in Lufkin since 1982. God’s Got This.” It took me about three Our daughters, Jamie and Janet, and one half years to compile and graduated from Lufkin High School. organize the numerous notes and journal Jamie was a missionary in a Communist entries and actually write “Mom, God’s country in Northern Asia for twelve years Got This.” It has only recently been where she taught college level English. released nationally. Our youngest daughter is Janet Yancey, wife to Lead Pastor Jeremy Yancey of I want the reader of “Mom, God’s Got Timber Creek Church, formerly Lufkin This” to understand what an awesome First Assembly. Janet is also Director of God we serve, that He is faithful and true Physician Recruitment at CHI St. Luke’s to His Word, and that His grace is always Health Memorial Hospital. sufficient even when we walk through the I knew I would write a book about Jamie’s divine healing when she was first diagnosed with breast cancer in the spring of 2011. I have journaled since our daughters were toddlers. I began documenting extensively Jamie’s journey through breast cancer. She died eighteen months later on November 17, 2012, at the age of 36. She was healed but not in the way we had prayed. I knew there would still be a book about her amazing life, her faith and trust in God, and our amazing and faithful God who walked with our family through every moment of her life, illness, death, and grief journey. He has turned this mother’s mourning into joy. I attempted to begin putting together tons of notes and journal entries from my own personal journals as well as from many of Jamie’s personal journals in January of 2014. It was too difficult. It was impossible to write through massive amounts of tears. That is when God gave me the idea to write “Connections.” I met with a “for real” publisher in April of 2015 (Tate Publishing) about publishing

valley of the shadow of death. I want the reader to be challenged to fulfill God’s purpose for their life, even as Jamie did (Acts 13:36). I want people to know that God heals the broken hearted, He will walk with us through the grief journey, and that He will turn our mourning into joy. He never makes a mistake, and He really does know how to bring beauty from ashes (Isaiah 61:3). Jamie’s legacy continues through scholarships in her memory enabling students to complete their education, students who exemplify that same call of God on their lives to go into closed countries to teach English in order to be a light to students who would otherwise never have the opportunity to know Jesus Christ. Pre-release sales and reviews of “Mom, God’s Got This” have been outstanding. Readers comment every day what a blessing the book is to their lives.

“Connections Second Edition” and “Mom, God’s Got This” are the results of my obedience to God. I have said all of my life (until almost six years ago) that I would never write a book. It just seemed

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like too much work! But God changed that. He enabled me to write both of these books. It has truly been rewarding to see how God is using these two books to help people know Him better. God has also given me an idea for another book, one on marriage. My husband Gene and I have been married over forty four years, and we have taught many marriage classes over the years. God has truly blessed us with a wonderful marriage and helped us raise two beautiful daughters. So I’m currently making notes and collecting ideas for book number three. I invite you to visit my website at www.karennorton. com for more information about our family and what God is doing in our lives. I am an ordained Assemblies of God minister and enjoy preaching from the pulpit as well as speaking at ladies groups and any other opportunities God gives me. You may contact me at Karen@lufkin.org.

WRI TTE N TALE NT

APRIL

H OUSTON This is my first book entitled “From Damaged to Destined: Pit to the Palace.” It’s a 3-part series on Passion, Purpose, and Provision. It took me a year to write this book. Being that it’s my first, the process was tedious. Lots of corrections, late nights, early mornings, praying nights, editing on what I thought should go and what shouldn’t and then waiting on God to change the entire script. The final months I learned to listen to God and it finally flowed with ease. I chose an editor out of Chicago, who I believe God sent, because she knew perfectly how and what I was trying and needed to express. I went with xulonpress publishing because they are a Christian publishing company for first-time authors. I designed the book cover to go through the process of being a damaged rose to a beautiful, purposefilled rose. I chose a rose because women are like a rose, delicate but resilient. We are soft, yet strong and thrive because of our thorny outer covering, and at times like a rose we go through a stripping process that is damaging, yet purposed for us to fulfill our intended destiny. I was inspired to write this book after my family and I lost everything we had in a house fire. It was Monday afternoon the week of Resurrection Sunday my life changed drastically. I stood there watching my house engulfed in a ball of black smoke. This damaging moment exposed emotions I’ve unknowingly been harboring like anger in my heart, selfishness of being inconvenienced of MY life’s plans, and bewilderment of believing I was being punished…again. It happened out of the blue like a swift punch in the gut. It hurt badly and the familiar feeling of this type of blow surfaced to the point of remembering similar unexpected damaging moments. What God was really doing was pushing me toward my purpose and telling me He needed me to heal… for real. To tell my true feelings of the damaging moments and pits, and through my writing I would begin to heal. Not only am I going to heal, but others who read about my journey will begin to heal as well. Through writing this book, healing in my heart, mind, and soul took place. My intent is that others will read my truth and begin their own personal healing journey.

Writing has become therapeutic to me and has brought about a great understanding of God plans and purpose. This book is seven chapters and the other two will be the same. Seven is the number of completion and these chapters are to be dealt with strategically aligned with God’s divine purpose. Notes are placed at the end of each book so that you will do a personal or group study for enrichment and growth. I didn’t want to wait for a book deal. I didn’t write this book to plump up my bank account. I wrote this book for a unique group of individuals(men and women, young and old) that are thirsty for more and have an inner pull that’s driving them to want more out of their own life. But most importantly I wrote this for those who have experienced or are experiencing blows that have literally taken your breath away. Something so unexpected and unexplaineable it damaged you. From Damaged to Destined is meant to inspire you to keep pressing forward during times of adversity. This book is meant to push you to succeed through the ultimate tests, and to help give you strength to birth your dreams and deny the grave your gifts. I’ve intertwined Joseph’s journey with my own journey to allow you to take a glimpse of God’s glory through listening to His voice, heeding His nudges, and walking in faith. I believe nothing is happenstance and nothing is accidental. God’s purpose is intentional and directional. The places we go, the people we meet, the children we have, the children we don’t have, the husband or wife we get, the husbands or wives we decide to give back, the opportunities placed before us, the open doors, the closed doors, and yes, even the mistakes we make….everything pushes us toward God’s personally designed plan to fulfill His promise.

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TJM AG &CO // LI F E

ANG IE

N I C H OLS W I TH

A M Y

G RI GG

A Bride of Christ in Generation XYZ by Angie Nichols with Amy Grigg This is Angie Nichols' second book. Something Abundant: growing from a child of God to the bride of Christ is an award-winning Bible study published in 2013. The first book by Angie introduced readers to lessons on growing up from a child of God to what Scripture refers to as the bride of Christ. After teaching the concepts of the book and listening to feedback from women who now see themselves as the unique and powerful beloved of Jesus, Angie discovered they had more questions. For example, "What does living as a 'bride of Christ' look like in present society which faces challenges and temptations unknown to previous generations?" and "How do I recognize the Kingdom of God in my ordinary days and operate in the power of heaven when all my eyes see are my messy bun and crow's feet?" It was those sort of questions that inspired this second book. It expands on the practicality of the principles introduced in Something Abundant and encourages readers in the day-to-day living as Bride in the current age. It took just over two years to write, revise, and edit the book. "Thankfully, I had help from many others, too. Amy Grigg wrote the portions of each chapter that help readers make the content personal. Several amazing women (and even a few good men) contributed short testimonies to help illustrate the teaching of the chapters, as well," said Nichols. Publishing took about another six months from submitting the manuscript to its release date.

As our world faces greater temptations and more perilous challenges, many children of God operate in the limited power of devout girls. However, through an intimate oneness with Jesus, there is good pleasure for your life and access to incredible influence over the generation in which you were born as a mature Bride. This book highlights the timeless truth of Scripture and offers realistic application for a wide range of ever-changing issues (beyond marriage and motherhood) that women face today. Like beginning a bridal chamber relationship with Jesus, influencing those in your circle in truth and love, nurturing healthy friendships, protecting those in your care from the damaging lies of our culture, navigating difficult relationships, and knowing when to leave them. "I can't say that I love writing. I love when I'm done writing. For me, writing is somewhat of a cleansing or an exercise (neither activity is something I particularly enjoy). It's often uncomfortable (and sometimes downright painful) wrestling with the issues in my mind and the circumstances of my life in order to put what I'm discovering in my heart into words. However, like cleaning or exercising, I feel great when it's over; in hindsight, writing is always a thrilling (sometimes terrifying) experience for me. I will write more books if I feel God leading me. He's really the One motivating and spurring me in my writing. If He isn't in my product or process, it isn't worth reading anyway," Angie says.

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â&#x20AC;&#x153;Ultimately, my prayer for this book is that readers begin to discover for themselves the love letter written on their heart by the Author and Perfecter of faith. I hope they see their story as a one-of-a-kind epic and pass it on to the sons and daughters of the next generations. May we be a legacy of a happily ever after that never ends, in Christ alone."

written by Melissa Radke

SCRATCH M ARKS

Let there be

Peace on Earth

A N D L E T I T BE G I N W I T H M E .

I walked slowly through the LAX airport. It was shoulder to shoulder in the security check. Heck, it was crowded boarding the plane. It was crowded heading down to the baggage claim. But I guess such is life in one of the world's busiest airports. "It'll get less crowded once I'm out of here. Once I'm in the clean, fresh air I'll be able to think and breathe and slow down," I thought to myself. Clearly, I don't get to Los Angeles very much.

•

There's nothing slow about it.

•

The traffic is bumper to bumper.

•

The streets are clogged.

•

The buildings line up - one right after the other.

•

The people are everywhere.

I checked into a hotel. I flung my bag - and myself - on the bed. I opened up the curtains and looked out at a city that never stops. I ate at a restaurant where people were practically sitting on top of each other. I went to a Target for a curling iron at midnight and still had to wait in line. I crashed that night from exhaustion, but woke up with a mission. Sure, my day would be busy. I was there on business and not much time for anything else, but I made this decision: Today, I will look at faces. Not landmarks or screens, not billboards or emails. I will look at people. They might be moving so fast they are a blur, but I will at least try!

MY H O P E T H I S CHR I ST M AS

is that I do not convince you of my side or your side or your left, my right. I just hope that I slow down enough to see peace on earth, good will to all men. If even for just a season. Heck, I'll take a day! A day when we look at each other's eyes and less at each other's throats.

Here is what I saw. Literally. Not figuratively to make this article poignant, but here is literally what I saw... •

I saw a mom running down the street with three kids screaming, "We're going to be late. Hurry, Adam! No we cannot go slower! They will leave without us!"

•

I saw a man in fatigues getting up after a nights sleep, rubbing his eyes, not fully rested, from his bed on the same sidewalk the Mom had just run down.

•

I saw protestors and news crews and cameras.

•

I saw two skateboarders get into a fight while their "friend" recorded it on his phone.

•

I saw an American flag and a Christian flag and a rainbow flag and a Girl Scouts flag and they all billowed in the wind never imagining that the mere sight of them could make grown men snarl and bite their tongues. (Except maybe the Girl Scout flag.)

•

I saw blacks and whites and Muslims and Hispanics. (Once I even saw them all eating at the same Inand-Out burger, and interestingly enough, the earth did not open up and swallow us whole!)

•

I saw shoppers on Rodeo Drive carrying so many bags they could barely hold them, and yet, they weren't smiling.

•

And I saw children playing in fenced in playgrounds, running and laughing with no regard for the world around them and the state of our union.

•

I saw happy faces. And hurried faces. Sad faces. And angry faces. But at least, I saw faces.

•

Not bumper stickers. Or "I voted" stickers. I didn't see Instagram snaps. Or Facebook opinions.

•

I didn't look at red hats or 'I'm With Her' sweatshirts. No. On this day, I tried to see more.

Melissa Radke is a wife, a mom, a public speaker, a writer and a terrible listener. She enjoys long car rides with her kids, folding laundry and being ironic. She is deathly afraid of flossing and group texts. You can find her on facebook or at:

melissa@lufkin.org

SO M E TH I NG AB U NDANT

written by Angie Nichols

"You thrill me, LORD, with all you have done for me! I sing for joy because of what you have done" (Psalm 92:4, NLT).

TH R ILL

Back in June, while working to finish the book we co-authored, the Lord arranged for my ministry partner, Amy and me to spend a week near Santa Barbara, California on a beautiful property used as a refuge for rescued wild horses. For a week's worth of mornings, we heard the rolling lush hills thundering with hooves of wild mares returned to freedom. The untamed woods surrounding our cottage held fruit trees dripping with ripe abundance which we ate till our stomachs ached. Just a few miles down the hidden road was a beach with a cliffed shoreline that made my dreams of Beulah land seem 'meh.' We got permission to visit a picturesque vineyard tucked into the mountains just a mile in the other direction and enjoyed a personal private tour of the ranch with the billionaire landowner who exuded the manners, hospitality, and generosity of a southern gentleman. At one point, Amy had to pull the car over, barely out of sight from our new friends, so we could laugh in a full-out bliss attack that lasted a solid fifteen minutes. The wine was exquisite, the views magnificent, the food succulent, and the people heaven-sent. God provided for our transportation and accommodations in undeniable and unbelievable ways. Our children were entertained

OF and well cared for back home while we traveled, ate, drank, and slept like royalty. Even the music that played on the car radio accompanied the wild romance of our time away with the Lord. We scream-sung with the windows rolled down, cruising the Pacific Coast Highway in new realization of God's faithfulness to keep the promises He made us when we were in such dark places we wanted to die. The Glory of Christ we tasted during our time in Santa Barbara was not worth comparing to all the tears we collectively cried over our children, their cancers, our ministry, or any other thing up to that point. We knew we were obnoxiously spoiled brats, and we didn't care. Jesus is that good, and we were that happy. Understand, we did not deserve a single moment of that week's pleasure. Neither Amy nor I would make a claim that we were being rewarded or blessed because of merit. Please. No. What I do know is that the week was undeniably gifted us by God, and by God's hand alone we received it like two kids on Christmas morning, saying "Yaaaassss!" to every thrill of His hope. Over and over, we kept saying, "Why would anyone not want Jesus? Why do people run from Him, deny Him? Why does anyone say 'no' to this life"?

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TJM AG &CO // LI F E

Last night, as I drove past houses lit with the colors of the Christmas season, Amy called and gave me the newest details of her son's recent cancer recurrence. If someone is passing out tickets to a week in paradise, everybody wants one. But what about when death hands out brain tumors? The most wonderful time of the year finds many overwhelmed by the weary world. Do we still rejoice? Do we have room in our hearts for Jesus when the news is bad? When it makes you fall on your knees? Is Christ's thrill of hope in a Holy night two thousand years ago still enough for the mom who holds her teenage son and tries to comfort him in a disappointment few can comprehend? Do we still want Jesus now? Wouldn't it make sense to deny His power? How do we live His life when the night is dark and the way is through the valley? At His birth, only a few smelly shepherds witnessed a lowly, Holy King's arrival (Luke 2). When Jesus healed the sick and fed the hungry, people crowded around Him by the thousands ( John 6). At His cross, a handful of women and one disciple remained ( John 19). One glorious day, a multitude of every tongue and nation will surround His throne (Revelation 7). "If there is anywhere on earth a lover of God is always kept safe from falling, I know nothing of it, for it was not shown to me. But this was shown--that in falling and rising again we are always kept in that same precious love. Between God and the [truly regenerated] soul there is ultimately no between." Julian of Norwich

I would never speak for my friend, Amy. Especially not in this current season. But I know her heart enough to know her hope is still and will always be for a new and glorious morn. Last night on the phone, our conversation was heavy, but she said, "He is enough. He is always enough." My soul felt its worth. Weary soul, this I know, as surely as I knew it that summer evening of sweet bliss. In any high and every low, Jesus is always the only reason for rejoicing. Christmas is still about are And God's workmanship, a Holy night divine "For in ourwedays. a lover of Jesus finds created in alone. ChristDear Jesusbride, to dofallgood her every thrill of hope in Him on your works, which knees. He will lift you in due time. God Those prepared who hope in in the advance for us to do" Lord will rise up and soar again {1 Peter 5:6, Isaiah 40:31}. (Ephesians 2:10).

Angie Nichols is the founder of Something Abundant Ministries, serving women through worship, ministry, 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 Angieâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s blog, or book speaking events visit:

somethingabundantministries.org

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I'M

SICK with Dr. Cristina Graves

Winter is a wonderful time of the year. It also creates an environment that allows for rapid spread of wintertime illnesses. The last thing a busy parent needs is sick children or worse, becoming sick yourself. So what can you do to alleviate this stress? Below are some of the most common winter childhood illnesses and tips on ways to manage them.

GET YOUR FLU SHOT! Influenza is

responsible for hundreds of deaths each year. To avoid and even combat the flu, follow these easy measures - Rule #1: Always wash your hands and use hand sanitizer. Rule #2: If you become ill, stay home so you will not further spread the illness.

Managing Common Wintertime Childhood Illnesses

BRONCHIOLITIS Cause: Infection and inflammation in the small airways of the lungs. It is typically the result of a viral infection with the most common virus being RSV (respiratory syncytial virus). Signs and Symptoms: Congestion, cough with or without fever. Older, healthy children often have cold like symptoms. Younger children tend to be sicker, and young infants or chronically ill children can suffer from severe symptoms which can include difficulty breathing and dehydration.

Prevention: Wash hands or use hand sanitizer. Cover your cough and sneezes. It is spread by droplets and direct contact with the virus and can live on surfaces for as long as 6 hours. Treatment: Supportive care. This means that there is not a cure for the virus. In young children, using humidifiers, elevating the head while sleeping, using nasal saline with suction of the nose are the only things parents can do at home. If a child has trouble with formula or milk, your doctor may recommend pedialyte to keep them hydrated.

Older children can take over the counter medications although many of these are not very helpful when symptoms are at their peak. When to seek medical attention: If a child’s breathing appears “labored” see your pediatrician. Signs of labored breathing include rapid breathing, pulling around the ribs or complaints of shortness of breath. Watch for signs of dehydration. If an infant is unable to drink due to symptoms and has a decrease in wet diapers, dry mouth or lethargy then seek medical attention.

Cause: Influenza is the result the flu virus which has multiple types and strains.

and off of fever medicines 24 hours before returning to school to prevent spread.

Signs and Symptoms: Fever, chills, cough, body or muscle aches, congestion, headache, fatigue, sore throat and occasionally vomiting and diarrhea.

Treatment: Much of the treatment consists of symptomatic care. Fever and pain reducing medications can provide relief if the patient is able to take these types of medications. There are antiviral medications that your pediatrician can prescribe. It is recommended that you consult with your pediatrician to find out if antiviral therapy is appropriate for your child as well as for other members of the family.

Prevention: Get your flu shot in the early fall- this is your best prevention. Wash hands or use hand sanitizer regularly. Influenza is contagious a day prior to a person developing symptoms and will continue to be contagious up to a week after their symptoms develop. It is spread by the droplets of a person coughing or sneezing or direct contact with the virus. Your child should be fever free

When to seek medical attention: Young infants should always seek medical attention for fever immediately. If there is opportunity

for treatment with antiviral medications, then you will want to see your pediatrician early as possible. Generally, antiviral medications are not useful if started 48 hours after the onset of symptoms. Most cases of flu will last several days to 2 weeks. If your child has fever lasting more than a week, worsening symptoms, difficulty breathing or signs of dehydration, then you should seek immediate medical attention. Young children and chronically ill children are more susceptible to secondary infections from the flu virus which include ear infections and pneumonia. If it is suspected that your child is developing one of these, then see your pediatrician.

THE COMMON COLD

Signs and Symptoms: Runny nose that may even be green, congestion, coughing, watery eyes, sore throat and occasionally mild fever. Symptoms typically last 7-10 days.

Treatment: Symptomatic care. Humidifiers, nasal saline and suctioning of the nose are useful in young children. Older children can use over the counter medications for symptomatic relief. Antibiotics won’t help a cold. It will typically run its course over 7 to 10 days.

Prevention: Wash hands and use hand sanitizer.

When to seek medical attention: If symptoms last longer than 10 days

Cause: Colds are caused by one of many viruses.

The

Healthy Children, Healthy Communities

Healthy ti e s Children, Healthy Communi

Café D c

or there are signs of a secondary infection, such as an ear infection then take your child to their pediatrician. Infants are most susceptible to complications such as dehydration and secondary infection. If there is a fever, it is usually at the beginning of the illness but if fever sets in later during the course of the cold, it may indicate a secondary infection.

Tuesday, December 13 9:15 am - 10:15 am

Dr. Cristina Graves of the Children’s Clinic invites The

parents of newborns and toddlers to join her the

second Tuesday of every month for informational meetings at Standpipe Coffee House. Free to all new parents.

Call the Children’s Clinic at 634-2214 and press 202 to sign up.

Managing Kids Common Wintertime Illnesses

The

Sponsored by: Healthy Children, Healthy Communities

www.thechildrenscliniclufkin.com

TJM AG &CO // G ROW I NG U P

INFLUENZA

H U NTI NGTO N DE V I L'S WARE H O U SE

HU N T IN GTON HIGH SC HOOL

Huntington High School is on the cutting edge. It was so cutting edge, the students had no idea what they were in for. "We all got put into Mrs. Cook's virtual business class not knowing what it was. On the first day of school Mrs. Cook gave an overview of what a virtual business was. She gave us a blank canvas, and as a class we formed Devil’s Warehouse. We got to decide what we wanted to sell, what we would call our business, and we got to put ourselves in departments based on our skills and interests. As a class, we voted on four managers that would lead each department. We have a production team, website team, sales team, and a marketing team. Mrs. Cook has pushed us and challenged us to achieve success as well as forced us to work together as classmates and coworkers. The school has never had anything like this, not a store or even an online store. The students are excited to see how the business grows. "It’s neat to think we were the class that started it all." The students started off selling shirts, foam fingers and hats.

Then they decided it was time to expand. Soon the online store had decals and monograms, as well as frameable prints. All the money made through the business is reinvested in the business. The class' next goal is to buy a heat press to make their own shirts. Mr. Stover, Huntington High School principal, was not only a believer in this very unique class, but the students. "Our principal allowed us to take out a loan from the school to get started. We are working on paying off our loan before we buy a ton of new inventory." “Mrs. Cook had a dream of a very successful virtual business. She taught us how to produce, design, and market our business. We also learned how to work together. We started with the idea of building an empire, thus devils warehouse was born. It has been an amazing learning experience and we have become a family. It’s definitely been a once in a lifetime opportunity. Mrs. Cook is here to guide us, but our managers get to help make decisions and lead each department in the right direction! We had a few weeks where we didn’t sell any items. Mrs. Cook forced us to brainstorm ideas of products we could sell that would be a hit. She jokingly told us that if this were a real business, we would all be out of job! It motivated us to start selling prints and monograms.”

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TJM AG &CO // G ROW I NG U P

S H OP ON LI N E

devilswarehouse408.wixsite.com

LO O K AT M E

PEAVY PRIMARY STUDENTS OF THE MONTH

Pre-K "Students of the Month" for the month of November: Makenzie Jones, Jaylen Bell, James Gardiner, Ella Kate Brown, and Angel Canada.

CENTRAL 4H

Smoothie King • 4505 S Medford Dr. • (936) 632-5464 • Like us on

Central 4H had a Community Service Day to help Central High School organize and stock their Food Pantry and Clothes Closet. Not sure if you have a place in The Journey for this type of photos, but if so, we would love to show off our chapter.

Kindergarten "Students of the Month" for the month of November:Chloe Robinson, Micah Ibarra, Anthony Castillo, Kynlee Pitts, Ace Garbe, Preston Goff, Sladyn Wise, Andres Rodriguez, Avery Hutto, and Collin Fulce.

Left to right: Maci Rice, President, Kenzie Warner, Secretary, Monica Starovic, High School Pricipal, Hayley Eldridge, Reporter, and Garrett Rice, Member

1st Grade "Students of the Month" for the month of November:Brady Frankens, Caleb Smith, Liam Crenshaw, Kya Poage, Kali French, Addison Stewart, Athalia Herrera, Gladys Vega, Isabella Navarro, and Andrea Avila.

2nd Grade "Students of the Month" for the month of November: Ricardo Macias, Adrian Solis, Ashton Harris, Stacy Moreno, Nicholas Nash, Cameron Dinger, Martin Serna, Riley Dunn,Brooklyn Rainoshek, Josie Walkoviak, and Emma Kurvin. Not pictured is Luis Vega.

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65 | TJ M AG .CO M

PRE TTY B AB I E S

Preslynn Marie Claunch September 21, 2016 Parents: Dustin & Cassia Claunch Grandparents: Kelly & Mark Woody Gary & Kathy Claunch Joe & Kittie Addison

William Kyle Hay September 21, 2016 Parents: Kyle and Kristen Hay Brothers & Sisters: Caleb, Morgan, Scarlett, Anna Claire, Francesca, Adam & Joel Grandparents: Tom Flournoy Scott & LaNell Hay Barb Flournoy

Prepared for your little bundle with specialty care. Your newborn is a miracle. So rest easy knowing that if your little one needs a higher level of care, the regionâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s only Level II Neonatal Intensive Care Unit (NICU) is here to help them get a healthy start. And should you need high-risk pregnancy care, weâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;re also home to a Maternal-Fetal Medicine Clinic. Schedule a tour of our birthing center today. Call 936-637-8660.

Trained, caring staff Adeline Elise Johnson May 12, 2016 Parents: Paul & Heather Johnson Grandparents: Lynn & Lesia Golden Larry & Sandra Thompson Ben Johnson

Jentry Jade Green April 20, 2016 Parents: Jace & Jade Green Grandparents: Kelly Pinner & Eric Hunt

Spacious private labor and delivery suites Skilled OB/GYN physicians Free childbirth and infant feeding classes 24/7 neonatology coverage and on-site transport team

E-mail Pretty Babies submissions to: prettybabies@tjmag.com. Please include name, date of birth, parents & grandparents.

Submissions are free of charge.

505 South John Redditt Drive, Lufkin, TX 75904 WoodlandHeights.net Woodland Heights Medical Center is owned in part by physicians.

" A N Y DAU G H T E R O F M I N E W I L L K NOW H OW T O D R I V E A N Y T H I NG O N L A N D , WAT E R O R I N T H E A I R . " Deanne Wallace remembers her mother saying those words when she was 10. Even at 10, Wallace remembers that empowering statement.From that point on, she knew one day she would learn to fly. "I fell in love after the very first lesson and never considered another career path." When Deanne was 15, her mother died in a plane crash where she was the pilot. When she turned 17, she asked a local flight instructor how to get started. "The desire to fly was twofold at that time. First, the statement my mom had made when I was younger still hung in my mind, flying had been something I had looked forward to growing up, and I knew she would not have accepted fear of the circumstances of her death as an excuse for me to not follow through. Second, I had tried for two years to come to grips with the "why" of her death and the only thing left to do was to learn for myself what happened, how it happened, and what, if anything, could have been done differently to prevent it. Of course, the only way in my mind to reconcile all of those questions was to do it myself and, in the process, learn how to teach others to fly safely. " That initial certification, a private pilot license took 4 months. Additional certifications and ratings required to fly commercially and to become a flight instructor took two years from start to finish, while completing college. She graduated Auburn University with a bachelors in aviation management. Followed that up with a Master of Aeronautical Science fom Embry Riddle Aeronautical. Today, 19 years later, she has been a pilot. "I love everything about being a pilot! I love the people I get to meet, the places I get to see, and the different types of aircraft I get to fly. Flying is both challenging and rewarding and each flight is unique in some way. I see the most spectacular sunrises and sunsets, get to experience places many people never get to see, and meet some amazing people along the way."

TJM AG &CO // B U SI NE SS 69 | TJ M AG .CO M

| photo credit RIKKI TROTTI

"I love everything about being a pilot!"

#G I RLB OSS

Wallace is the Executive Director at Harold's House, a local Children's Advocacy Center. She still manages to fly quite a bit as a contract pilot for local businesses and private individuals. To date, she has accumulated a little over 4000 hours of flight time in many types of single-engine prop aircraft, seaplanes, & multi-engine jet aircraft and have flown to 30 states & the Bahamas.4000 is a lot of hours. But there is still something on her list. "Despite the years and hours I have spent in an aircraft, I have never been in a helicopter. That is something I would love to learn to fly one day.

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71 | TJ M AG .CO M

| photo credit RIKKI TROTTI

LE ADE RSH I P

Dana Smithart S I LV E R

S P IKE

N O M I NAT I O N

Dana is a graduate of the 1988-1989 Leadership Lufkin class. For many years, she was active in the Junior League of Lufkin. During her 11 years in the League, she served as Provisional Trainer, Charity Ball Chair, Placement Chair, President-Elect, President, and Parliamentarian. As a mother of two boys, she was active in whatever projects or schools in which they were involved. She was an active member of the Brandon PTK and saw the need for playground equipment. By the end of the school year, it became a reality. In addition, she was instrumental in the completion of several other projects there including a walking track in front of the school. Her vision and determination will allow generations of students to enjoy the benefits of these improvements. When her children became middle school age, she began assisting there, as well. As PTK President at Lufkin Middle School, she oversaw a three year fund raising goal of $15,000. Many improvements to Lufkin Middle School were made. Because of her love for children and education, she also served on the TriEthnic committee for LISD, Treasurer for the Football Mother’s Club, Lufkin

ISD Task Force, and Chairman of LHS Project Celebration. An active member of Lufkin’s First United Methodist Church, Dana helps wherever she is needed. She is a member of the Praise Ladies Sunday School class and helps coordinate meals for those in need. She has also served on numerous committees including Altar/Sanctuary decorations, Women’s luncheon, assistance with Back to School at Anderson Elementary, etc. Wherever there is a need, she is willing to help. In addition, Dana has served on the Cattle Baron’s Gala committee since its inception seven years ago. In her tenure on the committee, she has served in a variety of roles and has helped raise awareness and hundreds of thousands of dollars for the American Cancer Society. Dana has also served on the United Way Budget Committee for the past several years. She loves being a part of the committee and helping these organizations receive their much needed funding. As a former Chamber employee, Dana has worked tirelessly on Chamber functions, as well. She has assisted the Expo Party for many years. In addition, she has helped coordinate the Leadership Lufkin program for the past four years. She loves working with Lufkin’s finest future leaders and getting to know each of them individually. I am proud to call her my friend, but even prouder of all she has done for our community. She is very deserving of the Silver Spike Award.

TJM AG &CO // B U SI NE SS

he Leadership Lufkin program has launched many wonderful volunteers. One of the best volunteers that Lufkin is fortunate to have is my friend, Dana Smithhart. Without question, Dana is one of the most dedicated, organized, and willing volunteers I have ever met.

#H O M E G ROW N

D R . R U CKMAN TH E

G I FT

O F

SI G HT

Dr. Richard Ruckman returned to the Sigotoka area of Fiji as part of the Benevolent Mission International to perform eye surgery. All of the care was free to the needy of this region. 753 eye exams, 540 pairs of glasses, and 65 surgeries were performed in six days.

# HOMEGROWN

When Dr. Ruckman moved to

routine eye care to surgical

Dr. Ruckman and the staff at The

Lufkin in the late 1970’s, he not only

procedures.

Center For Sight truly make a

wanted to open his own practice, he wanted to make Lufkin his home. For the last 35 years, Dr. Ruckman and The Center For Sight have served the people of Angelina County with quality service and a personal touch.

As the practice has grown, so has the staff. Currently, The Center For Sight has 6 doctors, certified ophthalmic technicians, certified opticians and many RN’s and staff members

with

additional

certifications and degrees for their

The Center For Sight opened in

specialty. They are proficient in their

1981 with 2 employees in one small

field and committed to providing

practice. Over the years, it has

the highest quality service to their

expanded into two clinics, two

patients. Dr. Ruckman has always

optical shops, and an ambulatory

encouraged his staff to attend

surgical center in Lufkin and

education courses or pursue a

Livingston with over 40 employees.

degree, even if it means the

They offer a variety of services from

employee will leave the practice.

76 | G I F T S & G I V I N G 2 0 1 6

difference in the lives of their patients. One individual says “Almost every week, I have someone from the community mention how Dr. Ruckman ‘saved’ beyond what

serves nationally as a teacher with

the eye care need”. He never hesitates

the

to sacrifice time or money to help a

Ophthalmology and the American

patient in need.

Society of Cataract and Refractive

The Center For Sight is not only committed to their patients but to the community as well. Many of the staff, including Dr. Ruckman, are involved

local

Academy

Surgery. Internationally, he serves as a medical missionary performing cataract surgeries in places like Belize and Fiji.

service

He has been described as a “pioneer

organizations, medical groups, and

in his field” and a “top notch

boards. As a practice, The Center

ophthalmologist”. One individual

For

many

says “his character of generosity is

organizations through sponsorship

what makes him an amazing doctor”.

Sight

American

supports

and scholarships. From little league teams to the Angelina Arts Alliance, Dr. Ruckman believes in diversifying contributions among a variety of organizations and charities. He also

We congratulate Dr. Richard Ruckman and The Center For Sight’s team on being the 2016 Division II Small Business of the Year.

TJM AG &CO // B U SI NE SS

was expected to be conscientious of

RI B B O N CU TTI NG S

LU F K I N C H A M B E R R I B B ON C U T T I NG S

M. Wesley & Associates Real Estate

PO LI TI CS

T R AV I S C L A R DY TEXAS STATE REPRESENTATIVE I want to begin by thanking you for your support, your prayers, and your votes! I am honored to continue to serve the people of Cherokee, Nacogdoches, and Rusk counties, and now that the election is behind us, we can build on our accomplishments of the past two sessions and continue our work in the 85th Texas Legislature. Though the campaign took much of the spotlight the last few months, we continued our work throughout the District assisting our constituents by acting as a liaison between our citizens and their state government, and by visiting with people around the District to discuss their concerns and issues to address in the next session. Arbor Day at Millard's Crossing

I have had many opportunities to share the rich resources and natural beauty of District 11 with those who are not familiar with our part of the world. I celebrated Texas Arbor Day at Millard's Crossing in Nacogdoches where students planted trees as a legacy for the next 300 years. Mr. Tom Boggus, director of Texas A&M Forest Service, declared the Garden Capital to be a Tree City, also. (photo 1) Several of my state government colleagues joined me at the Governor’s Small Business Forum and Texas Forest Country Economic Summit. This event recognizes East Texas’ small businesses, the backbone of our regional economy, and offered great information for business owners and leaders as we look ahead to the economic development of East Texas. It was also great to welcome Tracye McDaniel, President and CEO of Texas Economic Development Corp., back to Nacogdoches. And of course, we’re always pleased to have Senator Nichols join us. (photo 2) I enjoyed visiting with our public school teachers who asked some good questions and gave me feedback about education priorities for me to voice on their behalf in Austin. The future of Texas will be determined by how successful we are today in providing the next generation of Texans with the opportunity to receive a quality education.

Nacogdoches Country Retired Teachers Association

Veteran's Day

While the security of our future is of vital importance, we must also protect and honor those who contributed their lives to build it. I met with the Texas Retired Teachers Association at their recent meeting (3) to discuss ways to secure their future. Though words are inadequate to fully repay their courage and devotion to duty, we honored the service and sacrifice of our veterans at the Henderson VFW. (4) My priorities for District 11 include public education funding, promoting construction of Lake Columbia, and addressing public safety and mental health needs. From a statewide perspective, I'll work on strengthening border security, improving the quality of both public and higher education, and making sure we address state needs while balancing the budget. In January, I will return to Austin to make sure the Lone Star State, and especially House District 11, remains bold and bright. In the meantime, my wife Judy and I thank you for your support and we wish you the happiest of holidays!

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TRENT ASHBY TEXAS STATE REPRESENTATIVE As we continue through the holiday season and with the 85th Legislative Session just over a month away, I'm reminded of how much I cherish the time with my family and friends. Over the course of this Fall, I've enjoyed attending community events where I've been able to visit with so many of you about issues that have caught your attention. I look forward to continuing these kinds of conversations as session approaches, but for now here's a holiday reminder and an update from your Capitol in Austin.Â HOLIDAY GIVING

During the hustle and bustle of the holidays, we often times get so overwhelmed in preparing for our own festivities that we lose sight of the importance in giving back to those who need it most. While many of us will enjoy food and family this holiday season, so many others in our community will struggle just to stay warm and put food on the table. In the weeks to come, I hope you'll make it a priority to help others in need by donating to a local charity or food drive in your community. Should you need any assistance in finding a food bank, clothing drive, or other options for charitable giving, please call my office for help finding local options in House District 57. HOUSE INTERIM CHARGE: HUMAN SERVICES

Following the theme of helping those in need, we close our examination of interim reports with a look into the House Committee on Human Services. The Committee is interested in reducing the amount of child abuse and child fatality cases, as they relate to the state's foster care system. More specifically, the Committee aims to answer questions such as what prevention measures are most effective, which policies may be antiquated, and what should be changed to ensure that the safety of children takes precedent over all other priorities. Moreover, the Committee has studied what other states have done to increase the number of foster families and families willing to adopt children in need. Â The Committee members are also interested in addressing Texas' rapidly growing population. As our state's inhabitants continue to age, it is particularly important that we have the right facilities and programs in place to serve our senior citizens. With this in mind, the Committee will provide the Legislature with feedback on how to meet the demands of a rising elderly population after reviewing current state programs, looking over available options for living services, and studying the ten year anticipated growth rate. The mobile office will be suspended until after the holidays, but as always, please feel free to visit us in our District office at 2915 Atkinson Dr. in Lufkin should you need assistance. Additionally, you can always reach us in our District office at 936) 634-2762 or our Capitol office at (512) 463-0508.

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5.90 5.65 5.45 5.44 5.27 5.02 5.00

LOWEST BB PER 9.0IP

1. Addie Joss (1908) 2. Josh Tomlin (2016) 3. Josh Tomlin (2011) 4. Bill Bernhard (2013) 5. Addie Joss (1909) 6. Greg Swindell (1991)

.83 1.03 1.14 1.14 1.15 1.17

MAJOR LEAGUE LEADERS, 2016 SO-to-WALK RATIO

1. Porcello (BOS) 2. Tomlin (CLE) 3. Sale (CHW) 4. Scherzer (WSH) 5. Syndergaard (NYM) 6. Bumgarner (SFG)

5.906 5.900 5.178 5.071 5.070 4.648

2016 AMERICAN LEAGUE RANKINGS Category Rank # WHIP 11th 1.19 SO/BB ratio 2nd 5.9 Baserunners/9IP 11th 10.86 BB per 9.0IP 1st 1.03 On-base% alld 8th .291 Run Support 15th 5.12 HR all'd 2nd 36

TJM AG &CO // SPO RTS & O U TDO O RS

1. Josh Tomlin (2016) 2. CC Sabathia (2007) 3. Greg Swindell (1991) 4.Corey Kluber (2015) 5. Corey Kulber (2014) 6. Carlos Carrasco (2015) 7. Cliff Lee (2008)

INDIANS CLUB HISTORY

| photo credit CLEVELAND INDIANS

INDIANS CLUB HISTORY

STRIKEOUT-TO-WALK RATIO

"The chances of someone making it to the big leagues are something astronomical. Age: 32, born October 19, 1984 in Tyler, TX Attended: Whitehouse High School, Angelina College, and Texas Tech Univ. Resides: Whitehouse, TX Position: Pitcher Bats: R Throws: R Height: 6-1 Weight: 190 ML Service: 6 + 033 Contract Status: Signed thru 2017 with a 2018 club option Acquired: Selected by Cleveland in the 19th round (581st overall) in the 2006 First-Year Player Draft.

It's hard to look at a player at the Junior College level and say he is going to make it. Mainly because they all have the potential. It's a matter of everything lining up at the right time," says Angelina Baseball Coach Jeff Livin.Â During his time at Angelina College, he was a pitcher. "When he was here, he was our number 3 pitcher. Our number 1 made it. Number 2 tried minor leagues, but eventually that was over. You want good for all of your guys. So much of a player's potential comes from things I have nothing to do with. He came to me with a strong foundation. He always had

86 | G I F T S & G I V I N G 2 0 1 6

a tremendous work ethic, and he had his head on straight, always had his priorities right. He had a great family with great support." Coach Livin has had the opportunity to coach a vast number of athletes. Five of his former players have gone on to play in the MLB. "Am I surprised? No. Am I proud?Y Yes. Josh has mastered the art of doing what he needs to do at the right time. Back in August, there was a time he was in a slump. I sent him a text to encourage him. I told him to stick with it and do not stay down. He replied with, 'I am going to prove to them I need to be out there.'

"Anytime Josh faces a challenge, he has always stepped up to it," Coach Livin.

NATU RE 'S E Y E

written by Emily Courtney

L W on g THE

“ …sitting s t i l l i n t he s ha dow, l e t your ga m e fi nd you,

o r pass by w i t hout s us pi c i on; for t hi s i s t he b e s t way to hunt, w he t he r one i s a ft e r ga m e or onl y a b e tt e r

k now l e dg e of t he ways of b i rd and b e as t .”

88 | G I F T S & G I V I N G 2 0 1 6

pr ofound r eve r e nce a n d

fas c i nat i on for w i l dl i fe , t hat

com p e l s m e t o watc h a bi t

l ong e r b e for e r e a c hi ng fo r m y w e ap on .

I H AV E A N O L D B O O K

on my shelf, a very old book with a rusty red cover, scarred and stained from past readers’ hands and coffee cups, with faded gold lettering on the spine and yellowed pages that smell of dust and age. It’s a collection of essays by William J. Long, titled “Ways of Wood Folk.” Published in 1899, the book details his observations of various wild creatures at home in their wild places. The writing makes it clear that the author was a woodsman, more comfortable in the wild than anywhere else. He was insatiably curious about the world around him and its inhabitants, and seemingly more interested in the lives of wild animals than those of his fellow humans. During his time spent outdoors finding and watching wildlife, it seems his longing to grow in knowledge and understanding of these creatures often overruled his desire to make a meal or trophy of them. His words have sparked my own curiosity about wood folk and inspired me to pay a little closer attention in the woods. Reading something written so long ago always makes me wonder what the world, and life in it, were like back then. Long conveys such accounts of his ramblings in wild places that it would seem they were much easier to come by in his time than they are now. It seems as if the animals, the wilderness, and the people were all a bit wilder then. He frequented secluded spots where he could watch the feeding, breeding, and brood rearing behaviors of wildlife as they actually occurred. It’s difficult to find places like this now, where wild animals feel at home enough to carry on their daily routines without constantly being on guard against human intrusion. Long records observations of and encounters with a wide range of creatures; from catching crows robbing songbird nests, to studying beavers in the midst of construction, to watching a bull moose react to a hunter’s call. He would sacrifice the hope of a lynx pelt to watch the predator hunt. He would forego sleep to watch rabbits frolic in a moonlit clearing. He would devote an entire day to the study of a fox’s meal planning habits. Every encounter was a learning experience, and every animal had some lesson to teach, secret to share, or unique mannerism to display.

He devotes two separate chapters specifically to the habits of waterfowl. As a class of game animal, waterfowl seem to captivate their hunters to a degree unmatched by any other predator-prey relationship. Within the hunting community, you would be hard pressed to find a group that is more obsessed with their prey and the pursuit of it. Long was an occasional duck hunter, but much more frequent observer. He made such a study of the physiology, biology, and behavior of ducks that his knowledge of them could easily match or surpass that of the most seasoned professor. In one chapter he chronicles a day where he lies on his stomach in a muddy marsh, concealed by reeds, for hours on end, observing a flock of black ducks as they swam, fed, and slept inches from his face. These days, waterfowlers, or indeed any hunters, rarely reach that level of understanding about their prey. Most never even make an attempt at that degree of intimacy. The great irony here is that because of his familiarity with them, he could have hunted them more effectively than anyone, but seemed to shoot one only out of absolute necessity, when he needed something to take back to camp for his supper. Long’s attitude toward wildlife and hunting often makes me reevaluate my own. My past pursuits in the woods have rarely looked like his; they don’t mirror his patience or deep desire for understanding. Simply by reading his accounts, I have learned more about the “ways” of the game I pursue than through all of my personal experiences with them. I think all hunters could benefit from his example of seeking a deeper understanding of wild things. Through my attempt at doing so, I have developed a more profound reverence and fascination for wildlife that compels me to watch a bit longer before reaching for my weapon.

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TJM AG &CO // SPO RTS & O U TDO O RS

I have deve l op e d a m or e

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Sometimes, you need to keep things dry, cold, hot, or all three.Â Engel drybox/coolers are perfect for keeping food fresh, for storing sensitive electrical equipment, cameras, medical supplies or safety equipment. They float and can be used as a ditch bag.

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Costa Eyewear We love this Blackfin USA Limited Edition.

MILLER'S POINT OUTFITTERS Collegiate accessories from Millers Point. Money clips, wallets, belts, key fobs.

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Available at Bloom or their website. We are proud to introduce our beard oil/beard combo set. Great for gifts, now whether your buying it for yourself is up to you. Features our 1oz. oil and 2 oz. balm. Available in all four scents as well as unscented, available at lufkinbeardcompany.com and in Bloom.

E VANS B ROS. credit NRA | B. Gil Horman

A FIRST LOOK

^LWRC International AR Rifles After winning a coveted NRA Golden Bullseye award for its IC-A5 rifle this year, LWRC InternationalÂ is ready to trot out several new models for 2017 including the 16" barrel IC-DI in 300 BLK and the 8.5" barrel SIX8-PSD chambered in 6.8 SPC II. The NiCorr cold hammer forged 20" heavy barrel features full length spiraling flutes and a 20-postion adjustable gas block for sub MOA accuracy. The LWRCI advanced trigger guard protects a Geissele SSA 2-stage precision trigger. This platform also sports a Surefire SFMB sound suppressor adapter, Skirmish back-up iron sights, an UBR Gen2 Adjustable stock and a Magpul MOE+ grip.

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Avidity Arms PD10 9 mm PistolÂ Avidity Arms, a new division of Eagle Imports, is preparing to launch a new 9 mm pistol called the PD10, which has been designed by Rob Pincus, founder of the I.C.E training system and the Personal Defense Network. Intended for use as a concealed-carry pistol, this slim, polymer-framed single-stack 9 mm offers a practical sight system, a smooth trigger pull, a short accessory rail and a comfortable grip. It accepts readily available Colt-style 1911 10-round magazines and will safely fire +P ammunition.

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Century Arms TP9 SF Elite and Elite-S Pistols Century Arms continues to grow its Canik defensive pistol offerings with the new TP9 SF Elite and Elite-S polymer frame striker fired 9 mm semi-automatics. In addition to the trigger safety lever of the Elite model, the Elite-S has a manual safety that swings up to block the trigger from cycling. Both models have slides with Tungsten Grey Cerakote applied over phosphate for a handsome two-tone finish. The Warren Tactical fiber optic sights are mounted using industry standard dovetail cuts that are compatible with a variety of aftermarket sights. Features include an improved single-action trigger, match-grade barrel, reversible magazine catch, loaded chamber indicator and striker status indicator.

E VANS B ROS.

^ Winchester Repeating Arms For 2017, the legendary brass receiver "Yellow Boy" tubular magazine 1866 Short Rifle (top) will be available chambered in .44-40 Win. and .38 Spl. The brightly polished brass receiver, crescent buttplate and fore-end cap enjoy the company of Grade 1 American walnut furniture with a straight grip for the shoulder stock. The sight system includes a Marble Arms folding-ladder rear sight and a gold-bead front sight.

^Legacy Sports International Bolt-Action Riflesâ&#x20AC;¨ Legacy Sports International is ready to expand the options available to fans of extreme long-range shooting sports with the new series of HCR Howa Chassis Rifles. The chassis is precisely crafted from 6061-T6 aircraft grade aluminum to free float the customerâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s choice of 20", 22" and 24" Standard or Heavy contour barrels. The open fore-end accepts MLOK accessories and attachments.

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Savage Arms A17 & A22LR Rifle Savage Arms is preparing several new offerings for 2017. The new A22LR chambered in .22 Long Rifle is the third caliber to be offered in the â&#x20AC;&#x153;Aâ&#x20AC;? series of semi-automatic rimfire rifles. The A17, which was also the first semiautomatic to successfully fire the 17 HMR rimfire cartridge, earning a Golden Bullseye award. The A22 chambered in .22 Mag. which landed on the market earlier in 2016. Now customers will be able to enjoy the A series features while saving money on ammunition. The A22LRs features include an excellent AccuTrigger, steel receiver, adjustable sights, polymer stock and a removable 10-round magazine.

Other features include a Howa HACT 2-stage trigger, Ergo MSR grip, 6-position buffer tube, Luth-AR MBA-3 shoulder stock and a 10-round ACCURATE-MAG AIstyle magazine. Caliber options include .204 Ruger, .223 Rem., .243 Win., 6.5 Creedmoor, 7 mm-08 Rem. and .308 Win.

TRO PH Y RO O M

Lake Nac, 9.1lbs Shannon Hale.

Keith Socia 8pt Motley county.

Cooper Perry killed 12 pt Nov 5 in Kingsland, TX.

Rylie Due killed her first deer. A four in Kingsland, TX

Jaxon Williams and my husband is Matt Williams

Charlotte Deaton First deer Deaton Ranch Trinity County

Ryan Deaton 6x6 Elk Gila Mountains New Mexico.

Charlie Deaton 6 1/2 year old, 11 point buck Deaton Ranch Trinity County.

Paula Fugate first deer killed in Johnson City - 8 pt.

Susan Waggonner with a good non-typical, central Texas 10pt. Guided by Joey Waggonner.

Emma Rasberry, 8, 9 points, Mason, Tx.

Wesley Waggonner with a Rio Grand Turkey with a 11 1/4" beard, killed in central Texas.

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TRO PH Y RO O M

Zachary Smith 17 1/4 inch spread 8 point Killed in Groveton, TX.

10 point, 160 lbs, 15.5 inches wide, scored 128 7/8, Forest Lake Hunting Club in Spurger, TX with a 260 rifle on 10/30/16.

Marty Pigg.

Stacey Widner, Kingsland, TX,

First time bow kill. 17 year old Kadie Beth Wisener Lufkin, TX.

Jill Carswell, 130, 8 point, Cypress Lake Hunting Club.

Jacob Lamon, 10/29 8pt. Chronister Club Cherokee County.

Jake Slaten (9), right, and Kolt Larsen (9) left, kill a family of turkeys in South Texas.

1st Buck w/ a Bow, 6-1/2 Yr Old 8 Point, Polk County TX.

4 1/5 year old 6X5 250 pound mule deer. He shot it on a ranch in Lamesa Texas with his 7mm 08 rifle.

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