The Journey Magazine Nov 09

November 2009

Kasey Van Norman

inspiring woman

HOME TOUR

Casa Tour

of Homes Georgann McClain Inspiring Young Woman

2009

Holiday Gift Guide

tjmag.com / 1

Contents

November 2009

Your Home At Home: All in the family 8 Landmarks: tchoupitoulas 10 Homestead: buying land 11 home tour: casa tour of homes 12 In the Kitchen: quick thanksgiving tips 14 Landscaping: planning the home landscape 16 Your community business spotlight: wisteria hideaway 18 Business Connections: j.p. mcdonald 19 lufkin Chamber of Commerce 20 Nacogdoches Chamber of Commerce 22 Calendar 24 Places and Faces 26 Giving Back: hospice 29 Inspiring young woman: georgann mcclain 32

Stephanie Oliver P r e s i d e n t a n d E d i to r Michelle Briley d i r e c to r o f s a l e s Kay Hendricks sales executive Courtney conerly l ayo u t a n d d e s i g n Kristie Huddleston graphic designer alison thornton w w w.t h o r n to n - p h oto g r a p h y. c o m C o v e r p h oto g r a p h e r Lisa crow w w w. s p e c i a l e v e n t s t x . c o m e v e n t a n d co n t r i b u t i n g p h oto g r a p h e r allyson langston c o p y e d i to r

inspiring woman: kasey van norman 34

Susan childers web designer

Your Life

Contributors

Hall of Fame Hubbies 38 Pretty Babies 39 Girls Group: order of the eastern star 40 your wallet: count your blessings part 1 41 weddings 42 Relationships: Will the real ? standup 44 education: jamie mahan, teacher of the month 45 Your Body Fitness 101: 6 ways anyone can lose a few pounds 48 fashion: Winter trends 49

K at h ry n G r e e n e J u l i e C a st l e b e r ry E m i ly Pa r k s Anna Lee L i s a Co p e n A my Au st e n Jaco b M a b i l l e

Distrubution

Ja n e t G lov e r e m i ly ko l k kari spurgeon co lto n r aw l s lu f k i n au d r e y o d o m n aco g d o c h e s C h r i s sy l av i o l e t t e l i v i n g sto n

Beauty: common foods that help prevent wrinkles 50 Women’s Health: 5 natural common cold beaters 51 Review: Holiday gift guide 52 journey market 55 parting advice 56

Advertisment Information The journey PO Box 150537 Lufkin, Tx 75915 936-635-7369 advertise@tjmag.com

follow us on Twitter! twitter.com/journeymag

2 / The Journey - November 2009

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Welcome The time of year we have all been waiting for has finally arrived. It almost seems like the holidays are our internal alarm clock that says, “another year is about to officially fly by!” We are about to close the books on another year of memories. How great is it to look back and think of all the great memories you and your family have been able to share.

One of the greatest joys is to hear it from children. When my children are playing around the house or we are eating in a restaurant, something will trigger a memory and they say, “mommy, remember when we…” It is fun to hear what stands out to them or the things they remember most. More than anything, it makes me laugh to hear how they saw it in their eyes and reinterpret the event.

Even though we can soon cross out 2009 as another year gone by, thankfully, the upcoming holidays also mean time well spent with our families and loved ones. For some, it can still be hectic and crazy (I’m talking you--you early morning, day after Thanksgiving crazy shoppers!), but it is that stillness of not working, not doing business, not rushing off to school and work in the morning, and knowing that Thanksgiving day or weekend is all about family.

In addition to my immediate family, The Journey is a part of my family. This last year has been an exciting year! We have been involved with many new events and programs, and have met a lot more faces! There have been a lot of changes with the magazine, and because of that we have made new friends. The circle keeps growing and growing. One new feature and person we can get to know is our Teacher of the Month. I know we are all thankful for the teachers who love and teach our children everyday. They do an amazing job!

As we embark on this month focused on giving thanks, be mindful of all the things surrounding us that God has blessed us with. There is so much we take for granted and overlook.

This Thanksgiving, I am thankful for many, many blessings from God. But, I am especially grateful for every one of you who read and share your stories. You are what makes our community great!

Thankful Heart. Happy November.

Now, our God, we give you thanks, and praise your glorious name. I Chronicles 29:11

Stephanie oliver president & editor

4 / The Journey - November 2009

News

The Journey would like to announce a new member to our team. We are excited to welcome Kay Hendricks as our newest Sales Executive. Kay grew up in Lufkin, graduated from Lufkin High School and has lived in Lufkin all of her life. She has been married to Joe for 7 years. They have three daughters, one son, and one precious granddaughter. Kay enjoys spending time with her family, spoiling and pampering her dogs, and backyard landscaping projects with her husband.

She comes with many years of sales experience, so many of you may already know her. She is a true asset to our team and we are very excited for everyone to meet her! Welcome, Kay!

lu f k in m a ll Looking for a great place for a birthday party? Lufkin Mall has party rooms available.

Call today to reserve a room for your next party. 936.639.1249

coats fo r k ids Imagine not having a coat to put on this winter or knowing you do not have the money to purchase coats for the family this year. Elite Cleaners in Lufkin is doing something so you can help. Drop off a new or gently used coat to any Elite Cleaners location. They will dry clean it and then donate it to someone in need of a winter coat.

bu ck ner c irc le o f angels This group of women will sell hand painted ornaments to benefit single mothers.

The ornaments are beautiful and unique and are sold for $10 each. Buckner Family Place provides single parents with safe, affordable housing and child care as they receive their degrees in higher education from Angelina College. Parents are also provided with individual and group counseling, parent and life skills training and job readiness preparation. To learn more about the Buckner Circle of Angels fundraiser or to purchase a Christmas ornament, please call 936-637-3300. To learn more about Buckner, visit www.buckner.org.

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Director’s Chair As I have gotten older, one thing that I have really grown to appreciate is the different personalities of people. What a boring world it would be if we were all alike! I have the wonderful opportunity of meeting new people every day. Upon introduction, I always try to remember the saying, “You never have a second chance to make a first impression.”

Have you ever met those types of people that never seem to have anything positive to say? Just being around them begins to bring you down as well? Sure, we all have bad days. Who doesn’t need a good “pity party” every now and then? However, I think it is so important for us to realize how truly blessed we really are! God has a wonderful way of snapping me back into reality when I start to feel sorry for myself. Seems like on the days I feel the world is against me, He places someone in my path who is in a much more difficult situation than myself, and I realize things could be a lot worse. I heard a speaker say that if you have the privilege to own a book and are able to read that book, you are wealthy compared to millions of other people around the world. Wow! We really have so much to be thankful for.

I have started this simple practice to help me count the blessings in my life. When I wake up in the morning, before I even get out of bed, I make a mental list of five things I have to be thankful for.

Some mornings my list is the only thing that gets me out of bed, particularly on those mornings when my little one has been up and down all night.

A sample list: 1. I have a healthy, precious little boy.

2. My parents are alive and well.

3. I have not nagged my husband so much that he has thrown in the towel and moved to another state.

4. I can eat a hamburger without worrying about my cholesterol.

5. My miniature Yorkie may finally be getting the concept she needs to potty outside.

My list often flows from the serious to the ridiculous, but every morning the result is the same: I begin the day with a reminder of all the ways my life could be less than it is, and I feel so grateful. I challenge you this month: take a moment out of the hustle-bustle of the holiday preparations and make your own list of thanks. It will not get Thanksgiving dinner on the table any faster or help you with your shopping, but it will improve your outlook on life all the same.

Happy Thanksgiving,

michelle briley director of sales

6 / The Journey - November 2009

Your Home tjmag.com / 7

/ Yo u r H o m e

at home

all in the family | by julie castleberry

Some of my fondest childhood memories are

Now I literally have her expertise

the times I spent at my grandmother’s farm

at my fingertips.

in Whitney, Texas. Whitney is a little town

Rooms contains chapters that

near Dallas where my mother grew up with

are organized by rooms, and here

her mother, father, older sister, and younger

are a few of my favorite excerpts

brother. My Aunt Sissy and her family lived

from the book.

Glamorous

in Hillsboro, Texas, just a few minutes drive away, and it is there that I visited with my two

1.

cousins and had a wonderful time. My oldest

halls.

cousin, Jan, was truly my “idol”. I admired

“If every house tells a story, each

everything about her. She was beautiful and

entry hall is an opening chapter.

it didn’t take long for me to realize that she

…bold choices pay tremendous

had a great sense of style and fashion. She

dividends in entry halls.

would let me stand in her closet for hours

chances, and never, never allow

looking through her wardrobe, and she didn’t

these spaces to bore!”

Creating

interesting

entry

Take

even consider me a little “pest” when I asked to visit with her while she was getting ready

2.

Creating

luxurious

for her dates. (She is 10 years older than me.)

incorporating an area rug.

living

rooms

by

“The selection of a wonderful rug is one of Over the past 30 years, Jan has built an

the most important decisions made early in

enormous design business, and her works have

the design process. Very often, people wish

been published in countless popular magazines

to use smaller rugs in order to show more

including Southern Accents, Veranda, In Style

of their wood or stone floors, but they are

Home, and many more. House Beautiful named

always pleased when they see the effect of a

her one of America’s Top 125 Interior Designers

larger rug in the space.”

in 2003. Besides designing and marketing her own line of furniture that is showcased in the

3. Paint choices for your home.

most famous design showrooms from Los

“Do not use wallpaper in living rooms. One

Angeles to New York, Jan has recently found

should always insist on extremely smooth

the time to write a book entitled Glamorous

walls. Greens are a classic choice in public

Rooms which can be found on shelves this

spaces. Blues are soothing, and yellow, while

month from the New York-based publishing

too active a color for bedrooms, can be just

company Abrams books. It is an absolutely

right in a living room, where its cheeriness is

magnificent coffee table book filled with

desirable. Platinums and grays are underused.

incredible photographs documenting 25 years

They actually create an incredibly luxurious

of Jan’s designing career.

atmosphere. Deeper colors than these are better reserved for powder rooms, entry halls,

Before the writing of her book, I have

libraries, and studies.”

consulted with Jan on many occasions and received a wealth of design tips that I have

4. Fabric and lighting selections for your

incorporated in my own clients’ homes.

rooms.

8 / The Journey - November 2009

“Don’t be too cautious or worried about fabric selections, fearing accidents and spills.

These rooms should be designed for luxury.

Mix textures and styles liberally. Make good eye-level lighting a priority. Nothing is more important.”

5. The elements of any well-decorated room.

“There’s no need to match… This is the art of the mix, which is truly the art of great design.”

6. Creating incredible bedrooms.

“Beds should envelope, feel warm and cozy, and have the best linens one can afford.

Using too many (decorative pillows) creates an outdated look. Absurdly puffy duvets that look to be over a foot deep are not luxurious; they are simply flamboyant and must be avoided. Ostentation is never a substitute for true comfort and fine taste.”

Glamorous Rooms, written by my cousin, Jan Showers, is sure to become a classic for anyone who has a passion for great interior design.

tjmag.com / 9

/ Yo u r H o m e

landmarks Tchoupitoulas

Looking for delicious piece of history to visit?

Today the pressed

Tchoupitoulas is your place! (Pronounced

tin

Chop-a-Tule-as.)

floor,

roof,

cement

doors,

and

window frames are This building, originally built in 1920, has

all

been vacant since 1954. In 2002, Patsy Lucas

1920 building. When

decided she wanted to open a restaurant in

parts of the building

the location, and she learned there was a lot of

have to be replaced,

work to do. Tchoupitoulas opened its doors in

it is replaced with

late 2004. After a couple of years into it, Patsy

pieces

decided running a restaurant was not for her.

time period when

Then the current owner, Richard Park former

possible.

original to the

from

that

General Manager of Spring Creek Country Club, purchased the business.

The best part of this landmark building is that

the weather permits. It is a great change of

is has great food inside! Tchoupitoulas is a

scenery and offers a delicious meal.

The building was originally a general

steakhouse that only serves Angus Beef. Park

merchandise store. There was also living

says, “We cut our steaks ourselves, and buy

Tchoupitoulas is available for private parties,

quarters above the store on the second

our vegetables from local farmers to insure

rehearsal dinners, weddings in the courtyard,

story. According to research and old maps of

fresh quality. Our desserts are the finest, and

anniversaries, special event dinners, or any

Crockett, the eastern border of the restaurant

all are made here in house daily. The menu has

celebration.

was named Tchoupitoulas Street. That is

been expanded to include the ‘Best Chicken

where the name of the restaurant came from.

Fried Steak’ anywhere in the area and we also

To visit this historic landmark, the steakhouse is

The name Tchoupitoulas is a Choctaw Indian

feature a variety of chicken and fish entrees.”

open for lunch on Wed, Thur. and Fri., between 11 and 2 p.m. and dinners are on Thurs, Fri. and

word meaning River People.

The ambiance of the restaurant comes from

Sat., between 4:45 and 9:00 p.m. Reservations

The restoration project was very meticulous to

the historic walls that surround it. There is

are not required, but are accepted.

keep as many of the original pieces as possible.

also a beautiful courtyard to dine in when

10 / The Journey - November 2009

Homestead buying land?

Buying land can be a scary thing.

There

are

many

aspects to consider before you

purchase

land.

One

expert in the field, Michael Sessions, poses questions for you to consider and tips on purchasing land.

Michael

Sessions

says,

“Purchasing land can be a complicated process. Most land buyers fall into one of three categories: land to build a residence, a recreational property, or

fall into the flood plain. Flood insurance is

investment property. Some buyers may fit

expensive.

two or all of these categories. No matter what the objective is, the following items need to

5. Restrictions and Covenants that may

be considered when evaluating a property.�

have been filed on the property should be researched before you purchase.

1. Utilities – Do not assume a property has electricity and water or to get them run to

6. Minerals- Buyers should research who

a property is a simple matter of calling the

owns the minerals on a property and what

utility company. Running electricity to a

land owner rights are when there is no mineral

property or from where it stops on a property

interest with the land.

to a house site can easily run 10 to 20 thousand. The average cost of drilling a well

7. Easements- Buyers need make sure that

is 3 to 6 thousand.

they have access to a property and be aware of all easements that run across the property

2. Survey- Most property will have to be surveyed Talk to a surveyor before you agree

8. Timber- Talk to a Forester to find out the

upon a price to pay for the property. Surveys

value of the trees on a property.

can be expensive.

For more information on purchasing land, 3. Financing - talk to your lender before you

contact

find the perfect piece of land. Lenders may

Country Real Estate at 936.875.2905

Michael

Sessions

with

Timber

require 10 to 20 percent down on raw land.

4. Flood Plain- Look at county and state maps to make sure the property or the portion of the property you want to build on does not tjmag.com / 11

/ Yo u r Hom e

home tour casa tour of homes december 3, 2009

Karen & Rodney Howell 158 Magnolia Bend Lufkin, Texas Located in the Autumn Lakes development in Hudson, the Howell’s custom Country French design at 156 Magnolia Bend is an original design by local firm Hesters and Sanders Architecture. Completed in 2008, this custom 4 bedroom, 3 ½ bath home was constructed by Pat and Randy Stewart of Stewart Construction, Nacogdoches. Custom entry doors open to reveal an elegant, yet comfortable home with arched openings, handscraped maple floors, warm earth-tone colors and an eclectic array of furnishings and fabrics. The Howell’s have designed their Christmas décor to blend with the character and personality of the home and its owners. Her own original Christmas tree designs will delight you and warm your Christmas heart.

Cowboy and the Princess Ranch 720 Morris Road Burke, Texas East meets west at the Cowboy and the Princess Ranch. These two epicures have found a comfortably pleasing way to come together. Throughout the Ranch, there is constant blending of the rugged ole west where anything goes and the proper correctness of the Eastern families. Hence the array of eclectic tastes in this two-story Victorian home.

The wrap around veranda lends itself to volumes of skirts and petticoats or, just as easily, the clank of spurs on its planks. Many guests throughout the year come to enjoy the excitement of cowboy activities, of horses and cattle, and then retreat to the veranda for tea, whether iced or hot with a spot of milk and sugar.

As you enjoy the lights and decorations, you may also feel the love of the Lord in this home.

Deidra & Raymond Fore 162 Haylie Way Lufkin, Texas Welcome to The Purple House owned by Raymond and Deidra Fore. Built by the Fores and Robert Barbe Construction in 1987 with an addition in 1994, the house constantly changes because Raymond and Deidra are do-it-yourself people who always have a project going. Though small in size, it’s big in offbeat style with art, color, and creativity.

Raymond has painted walls pink, gray, black, green, yellow, orange, purple, blue, and even white. He has tiled bath counters and floors, a unique mosaic tile floor, and a quirky fireplace front. Deidra likes to shop everywhere from Gipson Girl to Target. She also proudly owns possessions that belonged to her mother and that were given to her by friends. Holiday decorating includes purple Christmas trees, a pink fantasy tree, and a lime green tree and decorations. The master bedroom has a “Dream” theme with four-year-old granddaughter Chloe as inspiration. Come see the Fores for a merry and bright Christmas celebration!

Casa Tour of Homes is an annual fundraising event to benefit Casa of the Pines. Tickets are available at each home for $10. This is a one day event from 2 p.m. - 8 p.m.

12 / The Journey - November 2009

Southern Stables Bed & Breakfast Dave and Lori Overdorf 3500 North Medford Drive Lufkin, Texas This two story Colonial Style home stands majestically in the middle of 130 acres of beautiful rolling pastures right on Loop 287. Built in 1966 by Texas State Senator Ottis Lock, this home still remains one of the most recognized homes in Lufkin. As you drive along the 750 ft driveway to the house, your eye tends to gaze across the pastures at the view, barely noticing the home until suddenly you are in front and realize the four pillars of the front porch are much larger than you thought. Upon entering this 6 bedroom, 4 ½ bath home, you will notice a tasteful western décor throughout, and each room has a different western theme. On the lower level, the sitting room and breakfast room feature a Knotty Pine tongue and groove paneling from trees taken from off the property. The cowhide upholstery and accents have some real eye appeal. Don’t forget to look at what Christmas favorite might be playing in the Theater. The tour doesn’t stop there! When you’re done with the house, meander down across the cattle guard toward the barn. On your way, you will see our Winter Wonderland in the Garden Room. A favorite stop for Santa is our Outhouse, and at the barn, you will find Santa’s favorite Longhorns getting ready for Christmas. May God Bless you and your family during this Christmas Season!

Carolyn & Cal Tipton 6111 West State Hwy 103 Lufkin, Texas The home of Cal and Carolyn Tipton is a “Texas House” (also called a “breezeway” or “dog-run house” or “dogtrot house”). It was built in 2005 by Mr. Tipton and designed after much study by Carolyn. These houses were built in the middle of the 19th century by country people looking for easy construction with efficiency in mind. They often had very few windows and were positioned to make use of the breeze. Many times through the years, porches were closed in and the houses were updated to meet the modern needs, but the basic structure stayed the same. This house takes the best of that world and brings it to the future. This Texas house is no different than any other 19th century house of its time at Christmas. The decorations are what ever can be found in the East Texas woods and fields. The Christmas tree also keeps its tradition. Glass balls were introduced in the late 1800’s by F.W. Woolworth. The more glass balls you had on your tree, the higher your status in the community. Join us to see how Christmas’ past were celebrated.

tjmag.com / 13

In the Kitchen

quick thanksgiving tips | by anna boles lee

When we think about Thanksgiving, there are a few things that will always come to mind: food, family, deer hunting, and then more food.

Thanksgiving is a wonderful holiday in that it is a time to not only spend

pumpkin bread pudding with brown sugar-yogurt sauce

with our closest friends and family, but to give thanks to God for all of the wonderful things he has blessed us with.

Whenever preparing the foods to take to Thanksgiving dinner or lunch, it is very important that it tastes delicious and is the talk of the table….. seeing that all of the family will be there to critique it. To make sure that your foods are yummy to everyone’s tummies, here are a few quick tips to make your dish a winner at your Thanksgiving meal.

• If preparing meat or poultry or a meat or poultry casserole, be sure to use a meat thermometer to measure for proper doneness. Temperature should be at least 165.

• When making pies, if you want a flaky crust, the ingredients/dough must be cold to start with and remain cold until cooking time.

• To make a meringue: Using an electric mixer, beat 3 egg whites until soft peaks form; beat in ¼ c. sugar, 1 tbsp. at a time. Continue beating until the sugar dissolves and the mixture is stiff. Spoon meringue onto pie, forming peaks with spatula. Make sure the meringue touches the crust all around. Bake 5-10 minutes.

• Selecting and preparing potatoes – Choose firm, plump potatoes. If buying a bag of potatoes, avoid bags that seem to have moisture in them.

Thoroughly wash potatoes before use.

Here are a few helpful websites to help you plan and prepare the perfect Thanksgiving feast: • http://www.butterball.com/tips-how-tos/tips/thanksgiving-guide • http://www.foodnetwork.com/thanksgiving/package/index.html • http://www.southernliving.com/food/holidays-occasions/ • http://familyfun.go.com/thanksgiving/thanksgiving-kids-table-fun/

Ingredients • 12 slices cracked or whole-wheat bread, cut into cubes (12 cups) • 1 cup sweetened dried cranberries, chopped • 2 cans (12 fluid ounces each) Nestlé Carnation Evaporated Lowfat 2% Milk • 1 can (15 ounces) Libby’s 100% Pure Pumpkin • 1 cup refrigerated egg substitute or 4 large eggs, slightly beaten • 1 cup packed brown sugar • 1 teaspoon vanilla extract • 2 teaspoons pumpkin pie spice • 1/4 teaspoon salt • Brown Sugar-Yogurt Sauce (recipe follows) Preparation 1. For Bread Pudding: PREHEAT oven to 350°F. Grease 13 x 9-inch baking dish.

2. COMBINE bread and cranberries in large bowl. Combine evaporated milk, pumpkin, egg substitute, sugar, vanilla extract, pumpkin pie spice and salt in medium bowl. Pour egg mixture over bread mixture; stir. Pour mixture into prepared baking dish; let stand for

Anna Lee grew up right here in East Texas in the wonderful town of Center. While

10 minutes.

growing up, she was very much involved in her local 4-H club participating in

3. BAKE for 45 to 55 minutes or until knife inserted in center comes

projects from foods and nutrition, showing chickens in

out clean. Serve warm with Brown Sugar-Yogurt Sauce.

the infamous Poultry Festival, and riding in the Shelby

4. For Brown Sugar-Yogurt Sauce: COMBINE 2 containers (6 ounces

County mounted drill team, played on her High School Golf team, and worked at her parent’s family business, Boles Feed Company. Anna completed a Bachelors degree in Family and Consumer Sciences at SFA, Master’s degree in Family Studies at Texas Woman’s University. Anna and her husband, Justin, live in Nacogdoches. Anna is currently is working at Shelby Savings Bank.

14 / The Journey - November 2009

each) or 1 1/2 cups nonfat plain yogurt and 3 tablespoons packed brown sugar in small bowl.

holiday calendar of events calendar of events

Quick sweet potato pie with honey walnut topping

Saturday, Nov. 21 - Lighting of Rudolph

Children 11 and under are invited to celebrate the moment with milk and cookies at 5 p.m. *While supplies last.

Saturday, Nov. 21 - Visits with Santa

Share your wishes with Santa at his Winter Wonderland through December 24.

Friday, Nov. 27 - Shop with us!

The first 300 shoppers lined up in center court at 7 a.m. will receive a holiday goody bag.

Ingredients

Saturday, Nov. 28 - Story time with Santa

• 1 (15-ounce) can sweet potatoes, drained and mashed, or 1 cup cooked and

Enjoy Story time with Santa every Saturday through December 19 at 10 a.m.

mashed fresh sweet potatoes • 1/3 cup light brown sugar

Sunday, Dec. 6 - Pet Photo Night

• 1/2 teaspoon ground cinnamon

K-9 friends and fluffy felines are invited to visit Santa from 6 - 8 p.m.

Mall

• 1 tablespoon canola oil • 2 eggs

When you want to taste, touch, hug and hold…experience

• 1/3 cup evaporated skimmed milk • 1 teaspoon vanilla extract Honey-Walnut Topping

Cookie Crust

• 1/4 cup light brown sugar

• 1 cup all-purpose flour

• 1 tablespoon canola oil

• 1/2 cup confectioners’ sugar

• 2 tablespoon honey

• Dash salt

• 3/4 cup coarsely chopped walnuts

• 1/4 cup canola oil

4600 South Medford Drive, Lufkin | www.lufkinmall.com | 936-639-1249

GK DEVELOPMENT,

gift certificates available!

INC.

GK Development, Inc. Properties

www.lufkinmall.com

• 1 egg • 1 tablespoon milk

1. Preheat oven to 350°F. In mixing bowl, beat together sweet potatoes, brown sugar, cinnamon, canola oil and eggs. Gradually add milk, beating until creamy. Pour into Cookie Crust. Bake 40 to 45 minutes, or until pie is set. When done, remove pie from oven and spread Honey-Walnut Topping evenly over top. Return to oven and broil until topping is bubbly and golden brown. Watch carefully.

2. Honey-Walnut Topping - This broiled honey nut topping is the perfect finish to the pie.

3. In medium non-stick pot, combine brown sugar, canola oil and honey.

Cook over low heat until sugar dissolves, stirring constantly. Add walnuts and stir until well-coated.

4. Cookie Crust - No rolling required, and this recipe can be used for roll-out cookies, too.

5. Sift flour, sugar and salt together into large bowl. In separate small bowl, whisk together canola oil, egg and milk. Pour liquid ingredients over dry ingredients and quickly stir together, just until combined. Spoon mixture into 9-inch pie plate and press onto bottom and up sides of plate. Add filling. tjmag.com / 15

Landscaping

planning the home landscape |by william C. welch extension landscape horticulturist A well-designed landscape is a pleasure to the

•

family, enhances a community, and adds to

environment

the property’s resale value. Landscape design

the site including

involves much more than placing trees, shrubs,

the view in and

and other plants on the property. It is an art

around the site. The

which deals with conscious arrangement or

ecology of the site

organization of outdoor space for human

should be carefully

satisfaction and enjoyment. Some of its major

analyzed since it is

goals include:

an important design

• Organizing and developing the site for

determinant.

Analyzing

the of

maximum use and pleasure.

• Creating a visual relationship between the

Not all landscaping improves the appearance of

house and the site.

a building. The work of an insensitive designer

• Reducing landscape maintenance to a

can subdue a building, conceal important

practical level.

features or contradict the architect’s intent.

Good landscape design can significantly

Americans spend tremendous amounts of money

improve the building’s appearance by adding

“landscaping” their businesses, homes, streets,

warmth, livability and personality. It can also

parks, schools, etc. Much of this money is wasted,

relate a building to its site and environment

however, because of little or no planning. People

and give it the desired degree of dominance.

cannot understand how to landscape until they know why they landscape. There are several

Growth and change separate landscape designs

reasons why people “landscape”: some think it

from other arts. Most works of art such as

improves the appearance of their place; others

architecture, sculpture, and painting look their

like to grow plants; still others just want their

best when new. Landscape designs, however,

place to look pretty. Too often these landscapes

are at their worst when new and improve with

dominate rather than serve. Masses of plants or

age. A well-designed landscape will seldom look

other materials in the landscape may take up a

the same any two months of the year.

large portion of the space and leave little room for people.

The temptation to begin planting immediately is almost overwhelming. Whether you are

Then how does the designer arrange space

landscaping a newly-built home or redesigning

so that people will find it useful, beautiful,

an existing landscape, the results will be

meaningful, and functional? His methods

much more satisfying if you plan first. Ideally,

include:

you should consult a professional landscape

• Observing and analyzing the habits of the

architect on planning, but you can produce

people who will be using the space, including

good results if you follow these steps.

their needs, desires and how much space each of their activities requires.

For a step by step guide, visit,

• Studying past methods.

http://aggie-horticulture.tamu.edu/extension/

• Surveying available materials to solve design

homelandscape/home.html

requirements.

16 / The Journey - November 2009

Your community boykin springs | photo by lisa crow tjmag.com / 17

Business Spotlight wisteria hideaway

Small business is

for about three years on business.” That couple

what makes East

from Alabama, Bonnie and Bryce Glick, sing

Texas

thrive.

Wisteria Hideaway praises. They knew what it

Anyone who has

was like to have to be away from home and if

opened their own

they had to spend the night away, they wanted

business knows

to it to be somewhere that had the true feel of

the anticipation to make the first year, the fifth

home. “Ron and Brenda really take the time to

year, and beyond. Wisteria Hideaway has made

make it personal and get to know you and what

all of those years plus some. This year they

you need. While you are there, you always get

celebrate their ten year anniversary.

to know and meet other guests. There was one time some members of a band were staying the

A lot has happened over the years, but more

night, and we listened to them play their violin

importantly there have been many new

in the living room,” said Mrs. Glick.

friendships formed.

In the last year, Wisteria Hideaway has added Brenda Anderson-Cole remembers when she

a new outdoor building to accommodate

first saw the property. “The property was on

outdoor events. They call the new building

the market and I became curious about the

Anderson Hall. It makes the grounds even

house and the possibilities of making a bed and

more beautiful.

breakfast. It needed some cosmetic work and updates.”

The best part of the whole property is when the wisterias are in bloom. The lavender color

They

purchased

the

property

and

the

covers the ground.

renovations began. “We removed carpets to expose the pine and hard wood floors. We

Because the home is nestled back on the

painted both inside and out for a fresh look and

property, it is easy to forget about this beautiful

to maintain the upkeep necessary to preserve

Bed and Breakfast. But one stroll thru the

an old home,” said Cole.

property will not be forgotten. You will be ready for a guest or visitor so you can let them

After ten years of new people coming and

enjoy the experience Wisteria Hideaway has

going, resting their heads and making Wisteria

to offer. One of the best parts is the delicious

Hideaway home away from home, the Coles

breakfast that Brenda creates herself!

have enjoyed getting to meet every guest. When you ask Ron and Brenda what the best part of the business is, they say, hands down, meeting new friends. “We keep in touch with a great deal of our repeat guests. We have made great friends with a lady and her husband that is originally from Lufkin.

For several years now we visit them in their home in Plano. Another couple, from Alabama, stayed with us monthly 18 / The Journey - November 2009

Business Connections j.p. mcdonald

The far reaching magnitude of these exhibits, along with the programs and lectures, will not be known until years later when we can see and hear stories of the thousands of school children that recall touring the gallery when they “were” children.

The Museum of East Texas is passionate about introducing children and their families to the world of the arts. McDonald states, “It is the goal of the Museum, through its educational programs,

to

preserve

our

collections,

promote history, art, cultural understanding, and enrichment through the many exhibitions and educational programming presented In 1972, a group of women worked tirelessly to

The Museum is privileged to be the recipient

create the Museum of East Texas. After a fire

of a large collection of historic photographs,

in 1969 at St. Cyprian’s Church, then located at

regional artifacts, textiles, decorative arts,

Second and Paul, the church decided to move to

and art by renowned Texas, American, Latin

a new location and the property was acquired

American, and European artists. Many of these

by the City of Lufkin. The women of the Lufkin

have been included in scholarly texts, books, and

Service League, assisted by interested citizens

traveling exhibitions. “According to our beloved

and the City of Lufkin, transformed the old

curator, the late Nancy Croom Wilson, the

church location into the Lufkin Historical and

photographic collections number over 100,000

Creative Arts Center, which opened in 1976. In

prints and negatives that span 100 years of local

1985, the board officially changed the name of

to regional history,” shared McDonald.

The Museum is honored to present JOHN

Decades later, the Museum still stands strong,

JAMES AUDUON: American Artist and

just as its founders dreamed. J.P. McDonald

Naturalist until January 19, 2010. This

has served as the Museum’s Executive Director

exhibition traces Audubon’s life (1785-1851)

since 1991. She is proud to say, “As we enter

and development as an artist and features

our 34th year, the Museum continues to move

original paintings, drawings and personal

forward in visual arts education, humanities,

artifacts. It presents over sixty of the Double

and educational programming.”

Elephant Folio, hand colored copperplate engravings from the Birds of America. Along

J.P.’s mother, paternal grandmother, and great-

with JOHN JAMES AUDUBON, the Museum

aunt deeply influenced her by exposing her to

offers

the world of art and culture. “I was lucky that my

McCall’s Birding Notebook Sketched in

mother was a great adventurer who had a keen

Thread; Mimi Hoppe Wolf’s Birds and Other

curiosity and made certain I was introduced to

Creatures of North America; and Angelina

culture through travel, museums, ballet, and

Photographic Association’s Birds.

other

exhibitions:

young people through school tours, outreach, traveling trunks, visiting artist and scholars, and other public programs, the Museum becomes a working partner along with the schools, businesses, and corporations in improving our East Texas region.”

East Texas is blessed to have J.P. McDonald continue the vision and dream of the founding members of the Museum of East Texas. The opportunities are endless for the community

the building to the Museum of East Texas.

three

each year. By building a solid audience of

Jeanelle

to get involved—from serving as a volunteer in a variety of capacities to financial support through a membership, you can become a part of the Museum family.

All exhibitions and programs are free to public and close Tuesday, January 19, 2010.

For information and a calendar of events, visit www.metlufkin.org or call 936.639.4434 During the Audubon exhibit, Museum hours are 9 a.m. to 5 p.m. Monday – Friday, 10 a.m. to 5 p.m. Saturday, and 1 to 5 p.m. Sunday.

December 19-23, the Museum will be open until 8 p.m.

music,” McDonald explained. tjmag.com / 19

angelina County Chamber of Commerce Vanity Full Service Salon & Tanning celebrated their grand opening with a ribbon cutting on Tuesday, September 22nd. Vanity will be the first full service salon ever in Diboll.

They currently offer tanning, nail and pedicure services, and salon services. They will soon offer spray-on tanning and multiple-level tanning beds. Pictured are: Co-Owners Jessica and Deborah Tipton and staff. Also pictured are members of the Lufkin/Angelina County Chamber of Commerce Diplomats team.

St. Cyprians Episcopal School held a Ribbon Cutting on Tuesday, September 22nd to celebrate the new renovations to the school. Visitors were given tours of the school and were told about the programs available to the students.

Pictured is: Head of School Brinn Williford, Rev. Art Callaham, students and staff of St. Cyprians Episcopal School, and members of the Lufkin/ Angelina County Chamber of Commerce Diplomats team.

Walmart celebrated more than 12 weeks worth of renovations with a Re-Grand Opening on Wednesday, September 30th. The store has received a facelift in several areas, including the outside color scheme, inside decor, signage and the store’s logo. Several aisles have been rearranged to better group products by genre, such as food and groceries, toiletries, household items, sports, and auto supplies. From the left are: Barbara Sharp, Laverne Deering, Olga Clark, Lily Andrews and Penny Gonzalez. Sharp, Deering and Clark have been with the company since Walmart came to Lufkin in 1976.

20 / The Journey - November 2009

angelina County Chamber of Commerce Harmony Christian School celebrated their new facilities and playground with a ribbon cutting on Friday, September 25th. Renovations to the school started in May, and were completed just in time for school this fall. The new building will place all the students together. The school renovations have also provided a designated area for school administration on the first floor of their new building. Pictured are Flo Davis, school administrator and staff; Senior Pastor Dr. John Greene and Executive Pastor Donnie Griggs; Todd Kassaw, board president of the Chamber of Commerce and members of Lufkin/Angelina County Chamber of Commerce Diplomats team.

Memorial Health System of East Texas introduced its new Cardiovascular & Stroke Center to the public with a ribbon-cutting ceremony and open house on Tuesday, September 29th. The facility will work in conjunction with the Methodist Health System of Houston to provide state-of-the-art care to East Texans.

The center has created 60 new jobs in the Lufkin community and patients will began to move in at the end of October. Pictured from the left are: David Hearne, Jerry Huffman, Wes Suiter, Terry Elliot, Mario Estrello, Les Leach, Dr. Ravinder Bachireddy, Patricia McKenzie, Dr. Abraham F. Cheriyan, Jack Gorden, Jim McReynolds, Bryant Krenek, Jay Shands, Buddy Temple, W. Temple Webber, Wayne Corley and Buddy Zeagler.

Chamber Academy wants your Opinion What type of business classes are you interested in?

• Social Networking • Quickbooks • Building a Business Plan • Websites • Advertising/Marketing Email your answer to lmatthews@lufkintexas.org or call the Chamber at 936.634.6644 tjmag.com / 21

NACOGDOCHES County Chamber of Commerce Alive After Five Law firm partners Travis Clardy, Jeff Davis, Drew Knowles and their staff are pleased to invite all to visit the newly remodeled offices. Join them at the Chamber’s after-business-hours mixer, Alive After Five, 5:30 to 7 p.m., Thursday, Nov. 19, at 209 E. Main St. Make new business contacts and enjoy an evening of good food and fun in Nacogdoches historic downtown district.

Fourth Friday Luncheon TxDOT district engineer Dennis R. Cooley will give an East Texas Transportation Update at Fourth Friday Luncheon, noon to 1 p.m., Dec. 4 at Hotel Fredonia. Registration is required. Contact the chamber for more information.

Ribbon Cutting celebrations Heart to Heart Cardiovascular Assoc.

Dr. Gary A. Barkocy 4848 N.E. Stallings Dr., Ste. 103 (936) 560-4327 Wildflower Jan Tracy, owner 413 E. Main St. (936) 552-6406.

Advanced Surgical Associates of East Texas / Colon & Rectal Clinic of East Texas Gregory McClain, MD/CEO 617 Russell Blvd.

(936) 205-5900 Oculofacial Plastic Surgery, PLLC Dr. Jon Caster, owner 1105 N. University Dr., Ste. 102 (936) 560-5437.

Alpha Phi Omega Joshua Moore, president 2424 Pecan St., Ste. 101 (936) 645-7985.

Nacogdoches County United Way Gary Lee Ashcraft, executive director (936) 679-6465.

22 / The Journey - November 2009

NACOGDOCHES County Chamber of Commerce Special Find Antiques and Collectibles Jerry Graham, owner 411 E. Main St .

(936) 564-0075.

Nacogdoches High School Information Central Library and Multimedia Dr. Rodney Hutto, superintendent 4310 Appleby Sand Rd. (936) 569-5000.

join the next Ribbon Cutting event: 11:30 a.m., Thursday, Nov. 5 The Dragonfly Gift Shop and Gallery 134 N. Mound St . , (936) 558-7200 New addition to downtown nursery.

Chamber education program receives state honor The Texas Chamber of Commerce Executives honored the Nacogdoches County Chamber of Commerce for its NOBLE (Nacogdoches County Opportunity for a Better Learning Experience) program. NOBLE received an Education Award “In recognition of the design and implementation of the best new Chamber of Commerce program in Texas .” Chamber President/CEO Bruce Partain accepted the award plaque at the TCCE Volunteer Conference on Oct. 9 in Austin .

Find everything online at www.nacogdoches.org

Contact the Chamber for the exclusive, members-only Web badge, left, for your web site!

Membership listings – All Chamber members with contact information. Search by name or category.

Community Events Calendar - View events and submit your business, organization, church, school, etc. events for Nacogdoches ’ only all-inclusive community event calendar.

Hot News - Be informed! Know what the Chamber is doing.

Register - Important information forms and registration fliers posted for your convenience.

NacBlog - Share your opinions. Read and comment on hot topics at NacBlog.

Shop Nac First - Go to the site that promotes thinking globally, shopping locally.

Event photos and video - Find the links to view online photo albums and the Chamber’s video channel.

tjmag.com / 23

november 2009 Calendar of Events 5 Salute to Healthcare Banquet Lufkin Pitser Garrison Civic Center: 936-634-6644 6 First Friday Cruise Nights 5 - 8 p.m For info call: 559-2573 Downtown Nacogdoches 7 Speak up for Kids 5K and Fun Run/Walk 9 a.m.; benefiting Casa of Deep East Texas For info call: Maria Gutierrez, 936-560-4711 Pecan Park, 728 E Starr Ave $10 for kids, $20 adults 7 1st Saturday Sidewalk Sale Downtown Nacogdoches 10 a.m. - 5 p.m.

For info call: 559-2573 7 SFA Lumberjack Football vs. Nicholls 6 p.m.

Lumberjack Stadium 468-JACK 7 First Friday “Holiday Open House Extravaganza” 5 - 8 p.m.

For info call: 559-2573 Downtown Nac Check out all of the great holiday finds at all of our downtown merchants: Shop late till 8 and be the first to snag great holiday merchandise!

7 Farmers Market 8 a.m.

107 Pearl Street

24 / The Journey - November 2009

7 Dish and Spoon Kids and Teens Cooking Contest 11:30 a.m.

For info call: 559-2970 Nacogdoches Public Library The Nacogdoches Public Library is hosting the 4th annual The Dish & The Spoon Cooking Contest for children and teens ages 4 - 18.

Food categories are salad/appetizer, entrée and dessert. Contestants will compete in age groups of 4 - 7, 8 - 13 and 14 - 18.

7 Live Music on the Patio 7:30 - 10:30 p.m.

The Hotel Fredonia 564-1234 7 Hospice in the Pines Annual Memorial Walk Joe W. Elliott House: 936-632-1514 7 Texas Gold Star Opry Lufkin Pitser Garrison Civic Center: 936-564-2279 7 Birding with Susie Lower Ellen Trout Park: 936-639-4434 8 Dr. Heinz Gaylord Lecture: “A Sample of East Texas Fungi” 2 p.m. at the Museum of East Texas: 936-639-4434 13-15 Millard’s Flea Market Dawn to Dusk 6020 North Street 936-564-4490

14-30 Fall Foliage Trail Drive through east Texas and discover the amazing colors of fall. We are home to some of the most beautiful fall foliage in the country. Why not make your drive complete with a stop in the Oldest Town in Texas? Stop by or call the Nacogdoches Visitors Center for a detailed map.

14 Tour De Nac 7.8 53 and 27.8 mile ride; 888-Oldest-Town 14 24th Annual Downtown Art Walk 10 a.m.–3 p.m. and 6 p.m.- 9 p.m.

Downtown Nacogdoches Join in with our local galleries to help celebrate artists from around the world. List of participating galleries available at the Visitors Center, 200 E. Main 14 Nacogdoches Public Library “Bedknobs & Broomsticks” Rated G 12:00 p.m.

FREE 936-559-2970 14 Lufkin Landscape Task Force Annual Gala Lufkin Civic Center 936-632-5413 14 Birding with Louis Debetaz and Carroll Moore Kurth Lake Adults Only 8 a.m. to noon.

Reservations Required. Email louisdebetaz@ suddenlink.net to make your reservation.

15 Gina Donovan lecture: “Birds and Bottomlands” 2 p.m. at the Museum of East Texas: 936-639-4434

16 The Evan Bradford Memorial Golf Tournament (benefitting The March of Dimes) Crown Colony. For more information please call 936-639-4557 17 The Dinner Party at Hotel Fredonia 6:30 p.m.

For info call: 936-564-1234 19 AC Swinging Roadrunner Jazz Band and ACC Big Band Angelina College – Hudgins Hall Auditorium: 936-633-5233 19 Holiday in the Pines Market- One HIP Night Hotel Fredonia $20.00 (includes 2 day pass); 6:30-9 p.m.

Tickets available at Regions Bank, Bancorp South, House of Traditions, Commercial Bank and The Cottage and in Lufkin at Beard Fine Jewelers and The Garden Gate.

19 Nacogdoches Public Library “American Girl, Chrissa Stands Strong 12 p.m.

FREE 936-559-2970 19 Joe Hamrick lecture: “John James Audubon: His Art, Family, and Life” 7 p.m. at the Museum of East Texas.

936-639-4434 20 Holiday in the Pines Market Shopping 11 am - 8 pm The Hotel Fredonia $4 presale $6 at the door 21 Holiday in the Pines Market Shopping 9 am - 5 pm The Hotel Fredonia $4 presale $6 at the door

21-22 Jingle Bells and Candy Cane Holiday Market Temple Civic Center in Diboll Sat. from 9 a.m. -4 p.m.

Sun. from 1-5pm Admission is free, but all patrons are encouraged to bring an unwrapped toy for the Angle Tree mission of the Salvation Army.

21 Nacogdoches Public Library “Oliver and Company” Rated G 12 p.m.

FREE 936-559-2970 21 Nine Flags Festival Lighting Ceremony Downtown Nacogdoches 6 - 9 p.m.

21 Birding with Jim Neal & Cliff Shackelford 8 a.m. at Ellen Trout Park 936-639-4434 21 Santa’s Arrival Lufkin Mall 936-639-1249.

21 Rudolph the Red Nosed Pumping Unit Lighting Lufkin Mall 936-639-1249 21- December 24 Visits with Santa Lufkin Mall 936-639-1249 27 – January 4 “Festival of Trees” Museum of East Texas 936-639-4434 28 Story Time with Santa Lufkin Mall (936) 639-1249. (Dec 5, 12, 19) December 3-Annual Christmas Parade Downtown Lufkin 936-633-0205 December 5-Santa Claus Express The Texas Forestry Museum 936-632-9535

Send us your events at Calendar@tjmag.com Submission deadline is the 15th of the month prior to publication.

(November 15th for the December issue) In order for your event to be included please list all ofthe following: Date, Event Name, Brief Description, Event Location, Time, and Contact.

tjmag.com / 25

Yo u r Co m m u n i ty /

places and faces taylor lowery the lodge

September 27, 2009 Lufkin

tutle race

ellen trout lake October 3, 2009 Lufkin

26 / The Journey - November 2009

simply PINK

pineywoods country club October 1, 2009 Nacogdoches

alive after five suddenlink

October 15, 2009 Nacogdoches

wisteria hideaway 10th anniversary October 18, 2009 Lufkin

tjmag.com / 27

power of pink lufkin civic center

October 15, 2009 Lufkin

nacagdoches chamber banquet hotel fredonia

September 29, 2009 Nacogdoches

28 / The Journey - November 2009

/ Your Commu ni ty

macy may ribbon cutting October 20, 2009 Nacogdoches

Pumpkin Party museum of east texas

October 24, 2009 Lufkin

JON HART trunkshow

adair boutique October 23, 2009 Nacogdoches

tjmag.com / 29

Giving Back hospice

Many people have a vague or incomplete understanding of the wonderful work and ministry of Hospice in the Pines.

Hospice care becomes a viable option

when a patient has been diagnosed with an incurable life-limiting disease and would rather seek comfort measures. Hospice in the Pines is a team of nurses, nurse aides, social workers, chaplains, and volunteers that address the physical, emotional, and spiritual pain that is often associated with a life-limiting illness.

These services are available 24 hours a day, 7 days per week. Normal operating hours are from 8:00 a.m. to 5:00 p.m. Any needs outside of the normal operating hours are addressed by the hospice on-call team. Hospice in the Pines also has a five-bed inpatient unit, which allows patients meeting criteria to receive hospice care in an inpatient setting. The Hospice inpatient unit is staffed 24 hours per day 7 days per week with a team of onsite hospice nurses. In addition to care in the inpatient setting, Hospice in the Pines offers its services in private homes, assisted living centers, and nursing homes. This exceptional care is primarily funded through Medicare, Medicaid, and private insurance. The Medicare and Medicaid hospice benefit offers durable medical equipment and supplies, medications that are required for the pain and symptom management of the life-limiting illness, and hospice care staff; which are all provided under this benefit with no additional out of pocket expense. Since Hospice in the Pines is a non-profit organization, no patient is denied services if they lack a payer source.

Oftentimes, the phrase “they have called in hospice” carries a negative connotation, but Hospice in the Pines offers a plethora of support and resources during a difficult time for patients and their families. Hospice in the Pines has been very effective in assisting patient and families to reconcile broken relationships, baptisms, complete marriage ceremonies, and accomplish a variety of life goals.

In fact, many who have utilized the Hospice in the Pines services share the common statement of “I wish we would have known about you all sooner.”

The major concern with Hospice in the Pines is 38.6% of our annual census expire within 7 days. The national average demonstrates 31% died or were discharged in 7 days while 31.1% terminate services after 180 days or more. Thus, the 30 / The Journey - November 2009

underutilization and delayed use of hospice services continues to be a problem that plagues hospice programs across the nation. Hospice in the Pines would like patients and families to know that it is never too soon to make contact with Hospice in the Pines for questions or to determine eligibility for services.

What distinguishes Hospice in the Pines from other organizations? First, Hospice in the Pines is a community based organization that has a wealth of experience in hospice care since its inception in 1986. Secondly, Hospice in the Pines is an organization that participates with the community and makes every attempt to give back to the communities that it serves.

If you are looking for someone to care for you and your family during a time that care is most needed, choose Hospice in the Pines. When we enter this world, we are surrounded by love, friends, family, and care. Don’t you think we deserve the same when we leave?

tjmag.com / 31

Inspiring Young Woman

Georgann McClain

The minute she arrived into this world- it was obvious to all of those

Born and raised in Nacogdoches, she is a product of what East Texas

around her that she was going to be a strong person. The day Georgann

is all about; a small town, close knit community. She is in the middle

McClain was born at 26 weeks, she weighed one pound 10 ounces and

of her senior year at Nacogdoches High School. This is the moment

was 13 inches long. It was a very emotional roll coaster for her mother

so many young girls look forward to in their life. Georgann has mixed

especially, but looking past all of it now, Georgann is a very driven and

emotions. “I am excited about graduating this year and looking

talented young woman.

forward to living away from home, but I am also going to miss the life

32 / The Journey - November 2009

/ F e at ur e s

Rodeo, Key Club President,

more importantly, my leadership.”

Grace Bible Youth Group, and is concurrently enrolled

Georgann acknowledges the importance of

at SFA.

mentors and role models in her life. There were many people she named that have been

Known

I have always known. All my friends that I see

to

her

family

by her side at different points in her life. But

as “Georgie,” her mom,

one in particular gave her advice that she

Belinda Mclain says, “I am

has remembered and kept with her- Micki

often amazed myself, not

Gunter, her riding coach. “She taught me so

by the number of things

much. Micki is a go getter and always told me

she is able to do well; but

that I cannot give up. Not just on riding or my

by her faith.

lessons- but with life in general. She told me

She is so

grounded in her faith and

to always write my goals down.”

at a level that some people

Georgann Mclain has a lot ahead of her. She

don’t find until they are

looks forward to deciding between attending

old or possibly never. She

Texas Tech and Texas A&M. Depending on the

is a wonderful gift that our

university, she plans on majoring in nursing

Lord allowed us to know

or accounting.

and love.”

in the halls everyday- it is really sad to think that I might not ever see them again.”

Many of the positions she has held have been in leadership positions. The positions not

Georgann has taken full advantage of what the

only carry the importance of leadership, but

community, NISD, and many organizations

that of high responsibility. Georgann says, “I

in Nacogdoches have to offer during the

have really enjoyed what I have learned over

years of her “growing up.” She has been very

the years. For instance, growing up I always

involved in extracurricular activities. The

wanted to be a part of the Heritage Festival,

most inspiring part of her is not the activities

so I could wear the white dress and makeup,

she participated in nor the positions she has

etc…But this year I learned so much more.

held- but her upstanding character and the

It really taught me a lot about myself along

role model she is for her peers and young girls

with the life skills it teaches you. Then, being

that look up to her.

the drill team captain is fun and challenging at the same time. I am the captain of 11 girls.

This year Georgeann is the Drill Team Captain at

We have to deal with the every day drama

Nacogdoches High School. At this past Heritage

and bickering, and we have to work through

Festival, she was named “Lady in Waiting.”

those situations together. And I have learned

Along with these two high accolades, she also is

a lot just by being a captain and seeing how

involved with Student Council, FFA, High School

different girls respond to leadership, but

tjmag.com / 33

Inspiring Women Kasey Van Norman As I pray and ponder over this article, the word “inspiring” seems to be on a repetitious loop in my head.

Inspiring…Inspiring?

I

immediately begin to chuckle under my breath as I heave a dramatic

Named

God by

sigh and the tears begin to threaten my intricately painted mascara.

I think to myself, “Of all people, I am the least inspiring person I know.”

Within the walls of this

self-doubting and unworthy shell of flesh, there lie many dark and dingy caves of sin. And although these treacherous caves have been boarded up for some time now, I live each and every day with the knowledge of what lies buried deep beneath the NO TRESPASSING sign. myself

To even begin to consider “inspiring”

would

be

hypocrisy in its greatest moment.

And although my person, the flesh of Kasey is nothing to boast about, I currently carry with me THE MOST INSPRING experience and truth ever told since the creation of man. That’s right. I may not personally be inspiring, but the transforming power that dwells within my being is inspiring beyond the comprehension of the human mind. And I encourage all of us to ponder the following question for ourselves: suppose I am wrong in my position.

34 / The Journey - November 2009

Suppose there

is no all-consuming power, no

transformation, no Creator and Sustainer, no

and

Community

eighteen, Kasey found herself completely

sacrificial Son of God. To that supposition I

Counseling. (This was simply due to the fact

independent from her family; working three

say; “Well then, I am wrong.” If my entire life

that I changed my major seven times and had

jobs, living on her own, and putting herself

is built on a fictional eternity, then, when it is

extra hours to earn multiple degrees. You

through college.

my time…I will simply die. I will be buried in

might say I struggled with “who God wanted

the dirt, and my existence soon forgotten by

me to be”)! She graduated with her Masters in

A Christian since the age of nine, Kasey

future generations.

2005, and had a baby girl three months later.

loved the Lord and desired His will for her

a

Masters

degree

in

Kasey now teaches music at the Fredonia

life throughout the many treacherous hikes

BUT…what if I am NOT wrong?

Hill Baptist Academy, takes care of her home

she journeyed along the way. Because the

What if I am correct in my belief of this

and children, and is working to launch her

Lord desired the very best for His child, He

supernatural, life-changing power? What if

new teaching ministry, Beautiful Adventure,

brought her into a relationship with the exact

there truly IS more to this brief existence and

with the release of her first published book,

man she never imagined would love her. At

the path beyond death than you have ever had

Named By God.

the age of 22, she was married to the one God

BUT!!!

the courage to imagine? It’s the “what-ifs” in our life that should consume our attention!

gave to her, and gave birth to her first child at “Wow…this girl seems like she’s got it all

the age of 24.

together,” some might say. And for much of To give you a brief background, I am what us

my adult life I did wear the shiny mask of

From the outside, Kasey’s life has seen its

local “Nacogdochians” call a B.I.N. – Born

perfection upon appearance. I desired for

fair share of suffering, but for the most part,

In Nac! As a third generation B.I.N., I would

others to look at my life and see a well put-

her life has been full of success, ministry, and

say that I am fairly acquainted with the East

together person, with a well put-together

Godly friendships. But on the inside…a war

Texas area and its unique heritage. My home

family.

You know that shiny mask I’m

was being waged within her restless mind.

will always have the fresh smell of pine and

referring to, right? I’m the one who stood in

And as if her past battle wounds were not deep

the old-time feel of downtown at Christmas.

the closet for hours trying to find the perfect

enough, she decided to wage war on those

But if I am honest, my heart is somewhere far

outfit for church, and then yelled at my

closest to her through weapons of lying and

away from the comforts of small town, and

husband for something insignificant because

betrayal. As though standing on the outside

yearns to be elsewhere; somewhere in the

I couldn’t find the perfect outfit for church,

looking in, Kasey began a downward climb

remote villages of Africa, prayer-walking in

and THEN threw my kids in the car and

into a dark pit of sin. And waiting for her at

the streets…or somewhere in a mountainous

yelled at them because I settled for a less than

the bottom, was none other than the “roaring

encampment, playing with and loving on

perfect outfit for church…and then, once I

lion” himself, Satan (1 Peter 5:8).

special needs children…or maybe somewhere

huffed and puffed my way through the church

in the dark and dingy inner-city, leading

doors and the greeter asked me, “How are you

For me to be writing this article only eight

prostitutes and drug-dealers to the Lord.

today, Kasey?” I would simply turn OFF the

months ago would have been hypocritical and

real me, put on my shiny mask, flash him a

dishonoring to God. I loved the Lord with all

smile, and say, “I’m doing FANTASTIC!”

my heart, but I was unwilling to truly believe

Only the Lord knows where my journey will lead, but for today, He has given me the role

He could love me in the entirety of what I

of wife and mother as my first priority. I have

Therefore, may I now present the not so

longed for. Therefore, instead of giving over

been married to the finest cowboy a girl could

shiny, (mask-off ), profile of Kasey: Kasey’s

my entire being to the Lord, I kept several

ever want for the past seven years. And I have

parents were divorced when she was thirteen.

fleshly pieces back for myself.

the honor and privilege of raising two of the

Due to the broken home, her father was

most precious treasures I will ever know--

primarily absent from her life, and as Kasey

At this point you are hopefully asking; “So…

Emma Grace and Lake,1.

began to mature, she longed for the love

what changed?” “What significant experience

and encouragement of a man.

Kasey was

made you transform from simply testing the

The pristine and clean resume profile of Kasey

raped at the age of fifteen, and instead of

water to leaping in head first?” That question

Porter Van Norman would read as follows:

reacting in fear of the opposite sex, Kasey

is easily answered with one word…LOVE.

Kasey attended Nacogdoches High School,

felt damaged beyond repair, and of no future

where she participated in choir and theater,

value to a good, Christian man. Therefore,

In Luke, chapter 7, verses 36-50, Jesus

graduating in 1998. Kasey then went on to

she sought security and worth in the eyes of

introduces us to a woman. This woman is

attend Stephen F. Austin State University,

any relationship that would have her. She

not considered by scholars to be a Biblical

where she began as a vocal performance

struggled with bulimia, cutting, and hours in

giant. In fact, the Scripture does not even

major, and ended up with two undergraduate

front of the mirror striving to make herself

give us her name. But, of all the characters

degrees in Communication and Psychology,

more physically appealing. At the age of

who grace the pages of the Word of God, it is tjmag.com / 35

to this woman I most relate. Here’s what we

because we think we are better off outside the

me, it is a work of healing and restoration

DO know about this woman: she is described

water. We have no idea the adventure that

for a sinner such as I. You see, I could not

as sinful, and she attempts to bring Jesus a

awaits us when we choose to throw ourselves

effectively write about being in a pit of sin,

bottle of perfume. But, before she can find

into the unknown depths below.

had I not lingered there myself. And I could

her composure to even approach Him, she

not effectively write about the transforming

finds herself kneeling before Him, weeping

When I finally chose to place my hands into

power available through the blood-shed of

so intensely, the tears drip onto His feet. To

the pierced palms of Jesus; when I chose to

Christ, had I not been washed in that blood

this, she immediately begins to wipe the tears

look straight into His glorious face and focus

myself. Oh sure, people want to hold you

with her hair, as she kisses His wet feet. That

completely on Him; when I chose to BELIEVE

back. Naysayers and onlookers want you to sit

night, the religious leaders stood in shock and

that I am “fearfully and wonderfully made”

in the corner for an extended amount of time

began hurling insults and judgment at the

by the Creator of this universe (Psalm

and think about what you’ve done. But I have

past sin of this woman; how could she dare

139); it was then, in that moment…I was

come to the decision that to do so would be a

approach the Son of God with such an ugly

TRANSFORMED! And it was in that time

mockery of the cross. For those tempted to let

past in tow?

with my Savior that I began to write! I have

the gossipers of this world bring them down,

always loved telling stories, either through

repeat Hebrews 10:22 to yourself as many

But you see, Jesus already knew the details of

drama or song, but I had never put serious

times as it takes to sink in: “let us draw near

her past before she ever approached Him, and

pen to paper as to the amazing truths being

to God with a sincere heart in full assurance of

He also sensed her intense brokenness before

shown to me by the Lord. I found myself

faith, having our hearts sprinkled to cleanse

Him. In verse 47, I picture the tender hands

writing down everything!

I began going

us from a guilty conscience and having our

of Jesus reaching down to this sobbing and

back in time. Back to my years as a child,

bodies washed with pure water.” It should

broken pile of flesh, lifting up her chin so that

my mistakes as a teenager, my insecurities

absolutely blow us away that our God not

her eyes might look into His grace-filled face,

within my friendships and my marriage, my

only desires to forgive our sin, He also desires

as He says to her, “your many sins have been

self-doubt as a mother; and I just started

to remove from us the guilt of that sin.

forgiven--for you have loved much.”

writing.

I wrote everything the Lord has

shown me, taught me, and challenged me

It is completely outside of my realm of

What pulled me out of my pit of self-

with. I found myself being more vulnerable

understanding that God has allowed a broken

fear, self-doubt, and insecurity, was the

and transparent with my past sin than ever

mess such as myself to publish a book and begin

incomprehensible LOVE of the Lord. And

before. I found myself addicted to writing

a teaching/speaking ministry in His name.

what transformed me, was the POWER

and reading God’s Word. I would spend hours

that love offers! 1 Peter 4:8 tells us that it

in front of the computer each day, before the

So…what about you?

is “LOVE which covers over a multitude of

sun would rise, and after my family was in

destiny? Are you “throwing off everything

sins.” Ephesians 3:17-20 tells us that if we

bed; just me and God…putting my heart on

that hinders you and running the race set for

allow God’s unexplainable love to consume

paper. Within three months, I had compiled

you with your eyes fixated on the author and

us, we will be filled with the fullness of Him,

a six week journey--my journey.

perfector of your faith (Heb. 12:1-2)?” As for

as well as receive “immeasurably more than we could ever ask or imagine!”

me, God is teaching me to take each day as it Fresh out of a stronghold of sin, the Lord

comes. And each day, I desire to be willing to

showed Himself to me. My writing was the

live in complete abandon to His purposes.

You see, Christ doesn’t say, “If you will trust

Lord’s healing instrument for my weak and

me, I might grant you love; or if you work

wounded soul. I had no idea where the words

really hard and act really good, then I will love

were coming from, because I most assuredly

you.” NO! He tells us that if we will choose to

had not the wisdom nor years to write such

love as He does, and to also believe in the love

truth. And that’s when I knew it was Him.

He alone offers, He will promise to literally

And for the first time in a long time, I believed

blow us away with what He has in store for

HIM. Oh yes, I have always loved and believer

our lives. The problem in our world today is

in my God, but when He began using my

that far too many people are quick to believe

fingers and thoughts as an outpouring of His

IN a God, but do not BELIEVE God. We walk

Spirit, I BELIEVED Him in a big way!

around depressed, anxious, fearful, doubting,

“Named By God” is a daily devotional and

questioning, worrying, and insecure, simply

interactive study for the reader, but for

36 / The Journey - November 2009

Are you living your

You can pick up a copy of “Named by God” at the Good Book in Nacogdoches or by visiting, www. kaseyvannorman.com. A special event presented

by Kasey Van Norman and Beautiful Adventure Ministries will take place on Saturday, November 14th from 5:00 to 8:00 PM at Fredonia Hill Baptist Church, UNVEILED 2009. This is a free event for all ladies experience what the surrounding communities have to offer as far as physical renewal, while informing you on the Biblical steps of heart renewal. Kasey is also available for speaking engagements, teaching sessions, and conferences. To learn more about Beautiful Adventure Ministries, visit her website.

Your Life Christ episcopal school pumpkin patch | photo by kristie huddleston

tjmag.com / 37

Hall of fame hubbies Jim Smith

Over the last 19 years, Jim has learned the fine art of being a great husband. We have survived some hard times on many levels. We have also been blessed beyond measure with countless sweet times, lots of laughs, and a beautiful family. He loves the Lord in a deep, quiet way, and is humble enough to trust Him completely. He is engaged in home life, active in our children’s lives, and helpful around the house. I am grateful to spend my life with him.

Alison Smith

Jared Sowell Jared Sowell and I have been married for 7 years and have been blessed with two beautiful children, Kailey (4) and Camden (2). Jared is a Lufkin firefighter and in his off time he is a San Augustine volunteer fireman. Jared loves to help people and for that and everything he does for us, he is our HERO. He always has time to do something fun and special with the kids. Jared is more than just a father, he is a daddy in every sense of the word. Jared’s kids are his heart--he even stays home with the kids on his days off when I am at work. On top of everything else, he always has time for me and always makes me feel so loved and cherished .Jared is a wonderful Christian man and I thank God everyday for bringing us together.

Christy Sowell

Please submit your Hall of Famer to halloffame@tjmag.com. Be sure to include a photo with 75 words telling us about your husband. Do not forget to list your children or grandchildren’s names if you would like to include them.

38 / The Journey - November 2009

/ YOUR LIFE

Pretty Babies 1.

Caden Alsbrooks June 9, 2009 Proud Parents: Tiffany and Chase Alsbrooks Proud Grandparents: Kathy and Danny Alsbrooks, Barbara and Jack Frankens Lufkin

2.

Addisyn Platt December 18, 2008 Proud Parents: Stacey and Jesse Platt Corrigan

3.

Dawson Lee Green April 24, 2009 Proud Parents: Memory & Dorsey Green Proud Grandparents: Kim & Bill Stanaland, Katherine & Dorsey Sr. Green Nacogdoches

4.

Presley Morgan Maddux August 12, 2009 Proud Parents: Amber and Macon Maddux Proud Grandparents: Brenda and W.F. Maddux, Lisa and Dennis Shoemaker Lufkin

5.

Blair Elizabeth Scudder October 11, 2008 Proud Parents: Meredith and Christian Scudder Lufkin

1.

2.

3.

4.

5.

We cover everything from top to‌you know.

C h o o s e We l l . www.woodlandheights.net tjmag.com / 39 40883_WHMC_7_375x3_4C.indd 1

2/17/09 6:06:20 PM

/ YOUR LIFE

Girls Group

order of the eastern star

Order of the Eastern Star is a part of Masonic organizations and is the largest fraternal organization in the world to which both women and men may belong.

Worldwide, there are

approximately 1 million members under the General Grand Chapter.

While this is an Order composed of people of deep spiritual convictions, it is open to all faiths, except those of no faith. The personal welfare of our members is vital to all of those in the Eastern Star, and it is considered a privilege to help another member whenever we can.

In the United States alone, Masonic organizations give $1.5 million a day to charities.

“OES is important to me because each generation in my family has continuously been a part of Masonry for at least 300 years,” said Terri Thompson-Sayler. “On my mother’s side of the family, her uncle traced his grandfathers to 1702 in Virginia through Masonic membership records. I felt it was very important to carry on this family tradition. So far, I am the only one to do so in my generation of the family on either side. My father is the only one in his generation to be a part of Masonic Life.

Terri Thompson-Sayler adds, “It’s all about helping others within and outside of the Order.

I believe it is possible to pay it forward, I will never be able to really repay everyone who has helped me over the years, but I can be kind to others and help whenever and wherever possible. The Order of the Eastern Star gives me an avenue to fulfill that promise I made to one of my mentors years ago.”

“The companionship of others, reaching out to those in need, and friendship of other OES men and women is why I joined,” said Bobbie 40 / The Journey - November 2009

Williams, Worthy Matron #428. Williams recently received her 25-year pin. She also added, “It is great being able to see the younger women grow, be willing to help others, and be concerned about the welfare of others, thus benefiting the community around them through a caring, sharing, and non-profit organization.”

The Nacogdoches Chapter has about 100 members. There are eleven chapters in our local district, which is part of the Grand Chapter of Texas. Many of the members are a part of the organization because of the focus on the betterment of the community and society around us, helping to make the world a better place everyday.

The focus is a non-profit

benevolent group which helps others.

This year, OES Nacogdoches #428 donated supplies to area schools, is helping collect coats for kids and adults, plus they continuously find ways to help the elderly in our community. In the past, they have helped the Masons with a place to cool off during the Blueberry Festival at the Milam Lodge #2, the second oldest Masonic Lodge in Texas, in the Oldest Town in Texas.

Sources: http://www.grandchapteroftexasoes.org/faq.asp http://www.easternstar.org/aboutoes.htm

Your Wallet count your blessings part 1

Are you ever burdened with a load of care? Does the cross seem heavy you are called to bear? Count your many blessings, every doubt will fly, And you will keep singing as the days go by.

Johnson Oatman, Jr. 1897 hymn

It’s the time of

grateful for? What sounds are precious to

and say to yourself, “Divine Love blesses and

year

you? For inspiration, search Susan Boyle on

multiplies all that I have, all that I give, and all

youtube.com.

that I receive.”

difficult for those

Day 2 Turtle Doves: Doves are the symbol

Day 6 Geese a Laying: The distant cry of geese

experiencing

for peace. What creates peace and serenity in

reminds us of another approaching season. As

job and money losses. Despite your financial

your life? Do that today instead of listening to

we gather the corn and prepare our winter

situation, it is important to be grateful. And

the negative media. That’s one secret of having

gardens, be thankful for the earth’s natural

the more grateful you are, the more blessings

peace about your money.

cycles. Bless nature.

we

pause

to give thanks.

This

may

be

you receive.

Day 3 French Hens: For your meal, not only

The next 6 Days of Christmas will be featured

In the spirit of the upcoming holiday season,

thank the hens for laying the eggs; but also

in the December issue.

here is “The 12 Days Before Christmas”

thank the farmer, the truck driver, and the

blessings countdown to guide you in the

store clerk responsible for placing the eggs on

Want to learn more? Join the Wealth Wise

mindset of gratefulness. Record your thoughts

the grocery shelf.

Woman’s E-class “Creating Perfect Harmony

each day in a special notebook. At the end of the

with Money” on Saturday, December 12 at

twelfth day, re-read each day, combined with

Day 4 Calling Birds: When’s the last time

11:00 am CDT. Call 800-289-8149 or email

your notes. Do you see the joy, the abundance,

you “called” on your friends? Take the time to

MariJoHarding@WealthWiseWoman.org.

and the riches in your life despite your present

connect with someone special. Record how you

financial situation?

feel and how thankful you are for this person.

You are experiencing

gratitude and its ability to “make every doubt fly and keep you singing as the days (holidays

Day 5 Golden Rings: Despite the losses in

that is) go by.”

your retirement and savings accounts, bless your money. The way you relate to money

Day 1 Partridge in a Pear Tree: What does

dictates the way you feel about your life. When

a partridge do? It sings. What music are you

you exchange money, “see” it providing good

MariJo Harding is a Financial Advisor Coach who ministers to women by helping them create a true financial peace of mind based on what women really want, while aligning their true purpose of money with their spending and investing decisions. She has a Masters

Degree in Social Work (MSW), which enables her to understand the emotional and psychological needs of female investors. She is the author of the forthcoming book, Becoming a Wealth Wise Woman: A Secret Recipe with Seven Special Ingredients. www.WealthWiseWoman.org MariJoHarding@WealthWiseWoman.org 713-899-4104 tjmag.com / 41

/ YOUR LIFE

Wedding Bells

Amy Nowak & Brent Howard September 26, 2009 Wisteria Hideaway Photographer Becki Basham

Paul & Elizabeth Shepherd Wedding date: September 19, 2009 in Curacao, Netherlands Antilles Reception date: October 10,2009 in Cochino Lodge Kennard,Tx Jasper, Texas Photographer Trecia Johnson

Do you have an engagement, bridal, or wedding photo you would like to share with The Journey? Email your photo to weddings@tjmag.com

42 / The Journey - November 2009

Stephanie Moore and Jack Knox Wedding Date: November 7, 2009 First Christian Church, Lufkin

Jacquelyn and Brady Franks May 23, 2009 Saint Cyprian’s Episcopal Church Reception held at Wisteria Hideaway Bed & Breakfast

tjmag.com / 43

/ YOUR LIFE

Relationships

Will the real ? standup? | by kathryn greene I know many of you don’t remember the

that survival

television show “To Tell the Truth” (1966- ).

mode.

My parents told me about the show – I can’t be

can’t rescue everyone, they can’t protect

old enough to remember it! (Ha! Ha!) You can

everyone, and they can no longer be someone

Google “To Tell the Truth” and see show clips

that God did not design them to be.

They

– it is fun to watch how the three contestants claiming to all be the same person can deceive

The truth found in God’s Word says that you

the panel of judges. I wonder how many of

are deeply loved, fully pleasing, and totally

you are deceivers by being that person who is

accepted by Him. As you study God’s Word and

masking your real self.

experience loving relationships with people who know these truths, you will begin to gain

I was leading a class this week with a group

an understanding of the way God values you.

of ladies who are tired of masking and trying

When you trust Christ and experience new

to be someone that God did not make them

life, forgiveness, and love, your life will begin

to be. Many of them (as well as many of us)

to change. You will need to put yourself in

have bought into the lie that we have to please

relationships that will encourage you to feel

certain people or do certain things in order

what you may have suppressed for all those

to have significance and feel good about our

earlier years. To begin releasing your old

self. Believing that lie and acting in ways that

self-concept, you need to begin to base your

are not the real will yield unwanted results.

self-worth on God’s opinion of you and trust

You can’t live a life of deception. There will

in Him to accomplish this change in your life.

come a time you can no longer play the game

Then, the real you can stand up!

– the mask will fall off and the real you will be revealed. And, you won’t necessarily pick the

Truth Card

time or place that will happen.

(From The Search for Significance

by Robert McGee)

Do you know the real you? I find that so many have “lost” their identity. They have

Because of Christ’s redemption,

grown up in an environment of fighting and

I am a new creation of infinite worth.

rejection where they were made to feel like

I am deeply loved,

they could not do anything right. They never

I am completely forgiven,

felt like they measured up to the perceived

I am fully pleasing,

standard. Feelings of failure can result from

I am totally accepted by God.

abuse and neglect or many other things. As

I am absolutely complete in Christ.

a result, patterns of survival take over and many times the person’s true identity gets

When my performance reflects my new

lost. A child might appear to be happy, even

identity in Christ,

funny, definitely the center of attention so

that reflection is dynamically unique.

that the dysfunction of the family is covered

44 / The Journey - November 2009

up. A child might take on the role of a parent

There has never been another person like me

to keep the family intact in the presence of the

in the history of mankind,

dysfunctional behavior of one of the parents.

nor will there ever be.

Later in life (around the age of 30-something)

God has made me an original, one of a kind, a

they find themselves not able to continue in

special person.

Education

jamie mahan - teacher of the month Introducing our first Teacher of the Month!

Jamie Mahan

is like no other teacher I have ever met!

Her energy and her

connection with her students are magical! She really encourages her students to have fun and “let loose” while learning. Don’t get me wrong though--there is a “no excuses” side to her as well.

She definitely practices tough love. This teaches kids so much, especially responsibility for their own actions. Each time I visit her classroom it is like a pep rally for learning. Oh, and did I mention she is my son’s teacher?

TJM: Tell us about you?

JM: I have been happily married to my husband John for 17 years. We have two sons, Judd (15) and Jace (11). We teach the Middle School boys and girls Sunday School class at Southside Baptist Church. I’m currently the Lufkin Panther Mother’s Club Vice President. GO PACK! I teach Gifted and Talented Second graders at Dunbar Primary as well as serve as the PACE Parent Liaison. I am currently in my 19th year of teaching and I love it just as much today as the day I greeted my very first group of students.

TJM: Why did you decide to become a teacher?

JM: I think I decided I wanted to be a teacher after my first day of kindergarten. As soon as I got home from school most days, I would sit my younger brother down to teach him what all I had learned that day at school.

I know God has given me a passion for young children and their parents.

TJM: What do you like most about teaching?

JM: What I like most about teaching is getting to meet so many people each year. I really try to build relationships that will last for years, not for just the year I have the students. I also love to see the spark in a student’s eyes when they have mastered something or they get so excited about learning

November is NatioNal Diabetes moNth

Diabetes...Live with it.

The registered nurses and dietitians at the Horace C. Polk Jr. Diabetes Center can develop an individualized treatment plan that is designed just for you.

• Education • Meal Planning • Medication • Self-Monitoring • Exercise • Stress Management • Adult support group • Cooking classes

something new that they come back the next day with information they have gathered about the new subject all on their own. One other thing I love about teaching is the fact that I get to continually learn something new almost each and every day.

To learn more about the Horace C. Polk Jr. Diabetes Center, please call (936) 639-7585 or (800) 553-7776.

tjmag.com / 45

Visit us online at memorialhealth.org

Education continued

TJM: What is the most important thing parents can do with their child at home to enhance his/her educational experience?

JM: There are so many important things parents can do to enhance their child’s educational experience. Your child is a gift and you are responsible for making sure they have everything they need to be successful.

Three very important things- 1st, don’t over schedule your child. I limit my personal children to one extracurricular activity at a time. I have had numerous students physically drained at school because of all the extra activities they are involved in after school. Kids need to be kids!

Limit their TV and computer time. The main thing is to have fun with your little one. They don’t stay little long!

2nd, start a routine at night during the school year. Kiddos need routines! Give them time to play, get a little fresh air and burn some energy off then have a place set up for them to get their homework done. ALWAYS check their Go Home Folders for notes and homework. Make sure they get plenty of rest! Kids in primary and elementary need to be in bed somewhere between 8:00 and 9:00 each night, depending on their age.

3rd, have lots of dialogue with your child (a large vocabulary is very important!). Read, read, and read to and with your child EACH night. Play board games (this builds lots of math concepts)!

TJM: Share with us a fun fall educational activity we can do with our kids at home?

JM: A couple of fun fall educational activities I have up my sleeve are: take your family to one of our local Fried Chicken restaurants and save a chicken leg bone or two. When you get home, make sure all of the meat is cleaned off and put the bone in a jar full of vinegar. After several days, take the bone out, and you’ll have a bendable bone! Pretty cool! Ask lots of questions about how they think the bone became bendable. Oh--I almost forgot one of my favorite little fun things! If you pack a lunch for your little loved one, pack them an orange, but first take a Sharpie and draw a jack-o-lantern face on it. Voila--a miniature pumpkin!

Do you have a teacher that should be recognized as Teacher of the Month? Send us an email and tell us about her! editor@tjmag.com

46 / The Journey - November 2009

your BODY photo by lisa crow

tjmag.com / 47

/ YOUR BODY

fitness 101

6 ways anyone can lose a few pounds | by Lisa Copen Switch to Sugar-Free Sodas

Get a Pedometer

According to the American Dietetic Association,

It’s actually a fun way to watch the calories you

eliminating soda alone could help you lose 11

burn. 1000 steps equals 50 calories burned, so

Watching TV=16 calories

pounds per year, and the less you drink, the less

wear it on your errands and it just may motivate

Passenger in car=16 calories

you will crave it. Consider soda a splurge, like

you to add a few extra steps to your daily

(50+ if your teen is driving)

a dessert, and choose the low-calorie options.

routine. For under $20 you can get one that has

Kneeling in prayer=16 calories

Coca Cola recently released Diet Coke with

an automatic voice tell you how many calories

Taking a bath=24 calories

Splenda, which is considered a better option

you’ve burned and informs you when you’ve

Talking on phone=24 calories

than aspartame to many weight watchers, as

met your exercise goals.

Family picnic (without

well as Coke Zero, which tastes a lot like Coca

19 ways to burn calories in 15 minutes!

arguing)=24 calories Get More Sleep

Computer work=24 calories

According to many studies, just one week of

Pumping gas=32 calories

Eat a Salad First

sleep deprivation reduces the production of

Making Beds=32 calories

In a 2004 study published in the Journal of

the growth hormone that helps control the

Grocery shopping=37 calories

the American Dietetic Association, Dr. Rolls

body’s proportion of muscle to fat. When the

Dusting=40 calories

reports that women on average ate 7 percent

body produces less of this hormone, there is a

Clearing dishes from table=

less pasta if they first had one and one half cups

tendency for the body to store fat.

40 calories

Cola, but without the sugar.

of salad with reduced fat or non-fat dressing. If

Stretching=40 calories

only her name wasn’t Dr. Rolls!

Picking flowers=48 calories Walking 3 mph=52 calories Vacuuming=56 calories Carrying infant=56 calories Hula dancing=71 calories Jogging in water=127 calories * Based on a female, age 45, 5’4”, 140 lbs.

Buy Controlled Servings of Food

Lisa’s adoption books make the perfect

Okay, so if you have to snack, spend the extra few

personalized gift for an adopting family. See

cents on the new 100-calories packs of cookies

http://www.scrapbookmyadoption.com

Drink Water

or crackers, the small cans of cola that are just

albums, transparency overlays, digital files or

Few people get enough water and certain

100 calories, or the mini-bags of popcorn. The

embellishments to make it simple to have a

medications

beautiful lifebook your friend will treasure.

more

calories are easy to keep track of and you won’t

dehydrated. If you want to burn more calories,

can

make

you

even

be tempted to overeat. Just don’t open that

drink it chilled. One gallon of ice water will

second bag!

help you burn 200 calories more than if it was room temperature. You burn about 1 calorie per ounce of chilled water that you drink. Always have bottles of water with you, especially in the car on hot days. You’ll be less likely to run through a drive through and get a soda.

48 / The Journey - November 2009

for

Article Source: http://www.faithwriters.comCHRISTIAN WRITERS

/ YOUR BODY

Fashion winter trends

Fashion not only changes from year to year, but every few months with the seasons. One minute, it is spring and yellow is the must have color in your wardrobe. Then, all of a sudden, it is winter and purple is the must have color!

If you are not a fashionista covergirl, here are eight ways to incorporate the new winter looks into your wardrobe.

1. Cuffs and Bangles. Accessorizing is key to any outfit.

This year, cuffs and bangles are a great way to add a simple trend to your outfit. They add a little more flare to a simple outfit.

2. Belts. Accentuating the waist is still a popular trend, regardless of the season. Winterize the belt by the color or texture.

3. Boots. Ankle boots and knee high boots are in season. They are very versatile to go casual with jeans or dress up with a cute and fun dress.

4. Coats. With winter comes coats. Find a fashion piece that you can add to your wardrobe. Choosing a fun pattern or a winter white will definitely stand out.

5. Grey and Purple. The colors for the season are grey and purple! You don’t have to go all out and get wardrobe pieces in both colors. Find easy ways to add the color of your choice into your wardrobe with scarves, jewelry, a shirt, or sweater.

6. Bomber Jacket. Something fun and little edgy for most is the bomber jacket. This is a great way to add a little pizzazz to all the casual days matched up with jeans.

7. Skinny Jeans. You have seen them around now for a while and they are still here. This is a simple yet trendy way to try out the fashion trends. Who doesn’t like a pair of jeans? Go out and try them on--who knows? You just might fall in love with them!

8. Leggings and Tunics. For many, the thought of wearing leggings is very frightening. The good news is there is a style just for you. Open any retail shopping catalog and there are many different outfits and looks and tailored to different age groups. The look is great for a casual, comfy look or paired with heels or boots for a night out.

tjmag.com / 49

/ YOUR BODY

beauty

common foods that help prevent wrinkles | by amy austen You are what you

These foods that help prevent wrinkles get their

eat, right? This is

power from their rich colors and tend to be more

probably one of

powerful when eaten raw. The only exception is

the oldest phrases

tomatoes, which tend to have more antioxidants

in the English

after cooking.

language, but it still remains true.

Healthy Fats

What you eat will

It doesn’t seem like fat would be anywhere near

not only end up

a list of healthy foods that help prevent wrinkles,

on your hips, but

but every organ in the body relies upon fat sources

it will make an

to function properly. That includes the skin!

appearance on your face as well! It turns out there are quite a few foods that help prevent wrinkles,

The trick is to eat healthy fats which do not clog

and they are not as distasteful or boring as you

your arteries and leave a greasy fill over your

may think.

pores. Some of the healthy foods that prevent wrinkles by providing essential fats include:

It is true that most of the foods that are really good for the human body are anything but appetizing.

* Salmon

Yet, when it comes to foods that prevent wrinkles

* Almonds

and keep the skin youthful and radiant, the

* Olive Oil

common foods on this list are quite delicious.

Even better, they are easily found in your local

Salmon in particular is one of the most

supermarket and you probably already eat some

beneficial foods that help prevent wrinkles

of them from time to time.

because it also combats a variety of other problems within the body.

Antioxidants You have probably heard a lot about the benefits of

The best tip you can ever receive for keeping

getting antioxidants into the body for weight loss

your skin tight, youthful, and blemish free is to

and overall health benefits, but this is one of the

take care of your body as a whole. Get in shape

best things you can do for your skin as well. Most

and eat for nourishment, not satisfaction, and

of the foods that help prevent wrinkles happen to

you will not only have clear skin, but you will feel

be very rich in antioxidants of some sort, which

your best as well.

will help nourish and replenish the skin so it fights off the signs of aging such as wrinkles, lines,

Visit

sagging, and sun spots.

discover effective foods that help prevent wrinkles

http://www.soft-clear-skin.com/

and

and diminish fine lines, dry skin, and other signs Some of the most common foods that prevent

of aging.

wrinkles by pumping your body full of antioxidants include:

About The Author

* Leafy green vegetables such as spinach and kale

Amy is a passionate advocate for effective skin

* Dark orange colored vegetables such as carrots,

care products. Visit her site at http://www.soft-

orange peppers, and squash

clear-skin.com to find out more about skin care

* Dark, rich colored berries such as blueberries,

solutions that work.

raspberries, and dark purple grapes 50 / The Journey - November 2009 * Tomatoes

Women’s Health 5 natural common cold beaters | by jacob mabille

The aptly named common cold hits nearly every

Vitamin C

Elderberry Extracts

one of us on a regular basis and once a single

It may sound like

Elderberries may look harmless, but to the cold

family member has it, it can spread quickly

something

your

virus they are far from it. It is a powerful antiviral

and viciously. While the cold itself is relatively

mom

your

as well as being a highly effective disease fighter.

harmless, it still presents almost crippling

grandmother would

As an antiviral, it can help to stave off the actual

symptoms. The common misconception is

try to convince you

infection causing the cold, and its disease fighting

that you can fight a cold, essentially getting on

of, but it is widely

properties strengthen and rejuvenate the

with your life and trying to ignore the problem.

believed

be

immune system. Elderberry and blueberries are

This is much more likely to prolong the agony

true. However, too

among the best varieties of fruit a cold sufferer

as opposed to beating it. In preference to

much vitamin C

can eat for these very reasons.

turning to the pharmacist, there are natural

can cause diarrhea

ways to reduce the recovery time and relieve

and possible even

The Immune Systems Role

the nagging symptoms of a cold.

or

to

kidneystones.Many

You have probably noticed that almost all of

proponents of vitamin C as a cold remedy would

these remedies are strongly based around

Rest

argue that 1,000mg every hour is not damaging

strengthening the immune system. This is

The misconception that exercise will help to

and will help to reduce the time a person suffers

because there is essentially no cure for the

sweat out a cold is misleading. The body needs to

from a cold. However, it has been medically

common cold and we are forced to rely on our

be able to fight the cold infection and by exercising

proven that 250mg has the same positive effects

bodies to fend off the infection. In order to do

or being excessively active, you are reducing its

as any larger dose with fewer and less severe

this, the immune system needs to be as strong as

capability to do this. Resting allows the body to

side effects. The best way to obtain this level of

possible and the stronger it is, the less suffering

fully combat the cold virus. The immune system

vitamin C is through fruit juices because this also

will be required.

and various immune functions within the body

provides a good source of extra fluid.

are strengthened or generated during sleep. It is these that will help your body beat the cold.

Jacob Mabille writes for Health Guides & Garlic

Articles where you can find more health tips

Garlic is another age old herbal remedy for

and related articles.

Water

colds. It helps to strengthen the immune system

When suffering from a cold, the body is

and is also a good antiviral. Putting garlic in

susceptible to becoming dehydrated. In order

meals will help to prevent colds and can also

to prevent this,

reduce the suffering time of patients. The best

it

way to consume the garlic is freshly ground and

is

absolutely

essential

that

raw. Many people would find this a struggle,

sufferers

drink

especially because a lot of people eat as many

plentyofwater.The

as three or four cloves as soon as they show

recommended

symptoms of a cold.

eight

glasses

of water a day is

the

absolute

minimum that you should be aiming to

drink

when

suffering from a cold. For this reason, water can help to further strengthen the immune system and subsequently beat the infection. tjmag.com / 51

52 / The Journey - November 2009

tjmag.com / 53

54 / The Journey - November 2009

409 E. Main St. Nacogdoches, Texas 936-560-1488

tjmag.com / 55

Parting Advice: 1. What was a memorable thank you gift or gesture you received?

2. What is your favorite thing to give or do as a thank you.

3. What is the best way individuals can show their gratitude?

The nicest thing someone can do for me to show gratitude is as old fashioned as it gets: a handwritten note!

I love personal mail and when it’s an unexpected note of appreciation, it’s especially sweet. My good friend Joy Fredrick literally counts her blessings with a twist from the legend of the pilgrims’ early Thanksgiving.

Wrap up five kernels of corn for each member present at your Thanksgiving feast and ask them to say five things they are thankful for this year. It might be a little “corny,” but it’s a fun way to get your friends and family talking!

Susan Childers Lufkin

1) The most memorable thank you gift I have received was a lovely little book filled with inspirations named Be Happy, my sweet friend had written a heartfelt inscription which I cherish.

2) My favorite thing to give is a gratitude journal, with the first entry being from me expressing my sincere thanks. The gratitude journal is a place to record things you are grateful for that happen each day. On a really bad day it may be simply “breathing”, but as you go on, you will realize you are picking up on sweet unnoticed things that happen everyday. It isn’t hard and won’t take long, but can change your whole outlook on life.

3) If all else fails, there is nothing like a sincere note on quality stationery. In today’s fast-paced world with e-mail, Facebook, and Twitter, the hand-written note is an endangered species. And who doesn’t LOVE receiving a letter in the mail. So get out that fun stationery and take a few minutes to make someone’s day.

Rebecca Welch Nacogdoches

I love to give magazine subscriptions (specific to their interest) or something homemade. I usually bake my famous Buttermilk Pies as thank yous to folks - especially at this time of year! It’s not unusual for my double ovens to hold 4 pies at once, and I’ve turned out as many as 20 in one day!!! When I wasn’t working and had more time, I would crochet an afghan in the colors specific to someone’s home décor! Just taking a little time to acknowledge someone is what’s important, and it doesn’t have to cost a lot of money! I’m a firm believer in hand writing a thank you note--not just sending an email (although this is the age of instant gratification).

If I had to think back to a memorable “thank you” that I received, it would be something that was totally unexpected-- something that I would not do or buy for myself on a regular basis--some kind of indulgence like a massage or flowers! The “surprise” is the key! I LOVE thank yous! We all need to do it more often!!

Kathy McGough Nacogdoches 56 / The Journey - November 2009