The Journey Magazine October 2012

CATARACT, GLAUCOMA & RETINA CONSULTANTS OF EAST TEXAS

BENCHMARK OPTICAL

Welcome

O

ctober is such a fun-filled month. Fall is officially in the air, and the “cooler” weather brings lots of fun events to attend. For many, it is also a reminder of something that has hit so many of us and our loved ones- breast cancer. Even if you have not encountered breast cancer first hand, every woman is endeared to those who have battled this horrible monster. After all, women understand that our breasts are a part of the fabric of who we are.

Everything doctors say centers around “early detection, early detection!” So, as October rolls around, it is so important for you to be reminded to take care of yourself and your loved ones. Fear of the unknown keeps many people, not just women, far away from the doctor’s office. This year, let’s come together and encourage each other to take care of ourselves and always see the doctor for regular checkups.

Mammograms save lives, and it is never too early to start. Breast cancer does not discriminate against age; It affects the young and old.

If we stay up to date on our health and do what we can to take care of our bodies, then when October rolls around and fall blows in, we can sit back and take in the autumn air. As women, it is natural for us to put ourselves at the bottom of the list so we can take care of everyone else around us. In order for us to take care of our loved ones, we have to put ourselves on the list, too. When we do, we will be able to enjoy the laughter and fun with our children and grandchildren.

As October rolls around, call and ask about a mammogram, but don’t forget to kick the leaves, enjoy the cooler autumn weather and wear pink!

Stephanie oliver

Lisa Crow Photography

president

Free Gift with Purchase For the Month of October Receive a PANDORA single pink leather bracelet (a $45 US retail value) with your purchase of$85 or more of PANDORA jewelry.* *Good while supplies last, limit one per customer.

Charms shown on bracelet are sold separately.

See our store for details.

2002 S. First Street Lufkin, TX 75901 936.637.2848

CHECK US OUT WWW.TJMAG.COM

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CONTENTS | OCTOBER2012 YOURHOME

11

Home Tour: The Ross Home Decor & Design: Pumpkins Galore In the Kitchen: Guilt Free Treats Your Pantry: Have Your Health

12 16 18 20

YOURCOMMUNITY

21

Hometown Talent: Beautiful Things Did You Know?

Calendar Inspiring Woman: Temple Rodriguez

YOURLIFE Breast Cancer Tribute Girls Group: Heels to Heal Relationships: I Lost My Best Friend!

Stretch Marks: The Dirtiest Word

CATTLEBARON’S GALA YOURBODY Fashion: Falling Into Fall Fashion Makeup Box: Pretty in Pink Health: Breast Cancer Screening Can Save Lives Fitness: Zumba Beauty: Permanent Cosmetics

YOURCHILD Pretty Babies Parent Thoughts: Rules of the Road Look at Me Birthday Bash: Why I Love Being a Mom: Jo Crenshaw

22 28 30 32

43 36

35 36 38 40 42

43 47

28

48 50 51 52 54

Jan M Memorial oore Celebratio n N

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by Hunt Stone & Fireplace Journey & Magazine

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57 58 60 61 62 64

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Name Phone E-mail

50 Stephanie Oliver President Beth Johnson | editor@tjmag.com Managing Editor Kim Iribarren | kim@tjmag.com Director of Sales Kevin McCarty | kevin@tjmag.com Marketing Consultant Terry Campbell | office@tjmag.com Office Manager/Accountant Macy Haffey Layout and Design Lisa Crow | lisacrowphotography@gmail.com www.lisacrowphotography.com Event Photographer Morgan Due www.morgandue.com Event Photographer

Contributors Jessica Tinsley Bridges Kelly Finnerud Kathryn Greene Amy McLeod Melissa Radke Jennifer Stevens Raegan Cassels Williamson

32

Contact Us: Mailing: P O B ox 1 5 0 5 37 L u f k i n , Tex a s 75 9 1 5

Distribution Lisa Crow Janet Glover Jarod Thompson Cover Photo by Morgan Due

P h ys i c a l : 1 1 5 E . S h e p h e rd L u f k i n , Tex a s 75 9 0 1 936-634-7188 advertise@tjmag.com facebook.com/tjmag twitter.com/tjmeast

Lufkin Plastic Surgery William D. Strinden, M.D. Dr. William Strinden is a board certified Plastic, Reconstructive, and Hand Surgeon. He has been in practice for over twenty years since opening his practice in 1988. Dr. Strinden performs many cosmetic procedures such as tummy tucks, liposuction, breast enhancements, nose revision, facelifts, and more.

He also performs numerous reconstructive procedures such as skin cancer removal, scar revision, carpal tunnel surgery, tendon repairs, would closures, and more.

According to Dr. Strinden, “Our goal is to provide excellent surgery of a quality expected in a major medical center, but delivered with personal attention.”

Safety, privacy, and affordability are the top concerns of the entire staff at Lufkin Plastic Surgery. Every patient is treated with kindness and the utmost professionalism. You can come in to visit the office and discuss your needs, knowing your visit and information is confidential. You can view actual photographs of the procedures you are interested in and receive price quotes competitive with any plastic surgery center in Texas.

Dr. William Strinden is a member of the American Society of Plastic Surgeons, certified by the American Board of Plastic Surgeons and the American Board of Surgery. The office surgery center is accredited by the Joint Commission.

For a comprehensive list of services and procedures, call Dr. Strinden’s office. An initial cosmetic consultation appointment can be arranged to go over which procedure would be the best for you.

116 Christie Drive | Lufkin, TX 75904 | 936.637.1145 | lufkinplasticsurgery.com

Locally owned & operated.

We have been serving East Texan’s home healthcare needs since 1997.

Lufkin: 4123 Ted Trout Dr 936-634-6240 Nacogdoches: 4635 North East Stallings Dr 936-560-4663

Ghosts & goblins don’t scare me. I survived breast cancer!

-Owner: Kathy Brown

1810 West Frank Lufkin, TX 75904

936.639.5259 www.ferrarashvac.com

www.AngelinaHomeHealth.com

Be good to yourself Remember... it’s your choice!

TACLA001365C

Southloop Crossing Shopping Center Lufkin | Next to Old Navy 936-632-5465

Your Home home tour 12 decor & design 16 in the kitchen 18 your pantry 20

Beautiful Things • Wrapped Around My Pinky

YOURHOME | HOME TOUR

the Ross Home

W

ith 30 acres to play and roam, Jeremy, Amy, Collin, and Macy love the land they call home. Their 4 bedroom, 3 bath home is 3300 square feet. They love to gather and play with friends around the pool, in the large shop, on the fishing piers, in the treehouse, racing around the motocross track, or hanging out by the pond. This active family of four has plenty to keep them busy.

12 / The Journey - October 2012

Meet Mrs. Susie Carroway, the NEW Owner of Alene’s Florist.

Alene’ s Florist

Open House

November 10th, 9:00 am to 3:00 pm

Same great team.

Back Row (left to right): Donna Dorman, Laura Capps, Dee Hearnsberger, Lisa Mason, Shirley Kirk Front Row (left to right): Carol Vines, Susie Carroway

Same great designs.

Flowers 7 days a week.

Alene's Florist 1206 S Chestnut St, Lufkin, TX 75901 (936) 637-1337

YOURHOME | DECOR & DESIGN

pumpkins

P

galore

umpkins are a fall staple! Why not add a little fun to the pumpkins? You can paint, glue, glitter and cut. The ideas are endless. Here are a few that caught our eye.

READY®

SPF 20 Foundation *Available in 20 skin-baring shades

1905 Tulane Drive, Lufkin

In The Fashion District, Next to Home Depot

(936) 634-1500

tjmag.com / 17

YOURHOME | IN THE KITCHEN

A

s the holiday season rolls around, the sugar and fat intake will soon skyrocket. One of the kids’ favorite days of the year is “Candyfest”, AKA Halloween. Over the years, parents have tried to get creative and adjust all the candy associated with Halloween by replacing it with apple slices, pretzels, goldfish and others of the like. Atkinson Candy Company, located right in the heart of East Texas for over four generations, has three alternatives for Halloween candy.

Peppermint Twist, Chick-O-Stick, and Peanut Butter Bars are all

GUILT FREE TREAT sugar and gluten free. Today, more than ever, there is a rise in gluten allergy. The list of treats and snacks are very slim for those allergic to gluten. They will be happy to know there are three more treats you can add to the list!

So this Halloween and holiday season, remember to look for the delicious Chick-O- Stick, Peppermint Twist, and Peanut Butter Bar to satisfy your sweet tooth cravings.

POWER

OF PINK

© 2012 Vera Bradley Designs, Inc.

OUTSTANDING ACADEMICS

PINEYWOODS COMMUNITY ACADEMY

College Preparatory Charter School Accredited Through Texas Education Agency

• PCA is a comprehensive free public charter school serving students in grades PreK-12th grade.

• PARAMUS Early College High School students grades 9-12 take Dual Credit courses at Angelina College and can earn up to 60 college hours or an Associate’s Degree.

• PARAMUS is the only ECHS designated by the Texas Education Agency in the greater Angelina County area.

OUTSTANDING ACTIVITIES • UIL District 23 1A sports at the Junior High, Junior Varsity and Varsity levels including boys and girls basketball, track, cross country, golf, and tennis.

• UIL Academics, Destination Imagination, and Robotics activities elementary through high school.

• Award winning choral music and theater program.

OUTSTANDING ADVANTAGES • Class sizes of 20 students or less provide individualized instruction and a student-centered approach.

• $ 4.5 million dollar building expansion project slated to begin in Summer, 2012.

602 S. Raguet • Lufkin • 936-634-5515 • www.pineywoodsacademy.org

by Amy McLeod, RD, LD

YOURHOME | YOUR PANTRY

HAVE YOUR HEALTH: A CANCER PREVENTION PLAN

A

s Ralph Waldo Emerson put it, “The first wealth is health.” If we don’t have our health, we lose out on living our best life.

Although some disease and illness just happen, many diseases, including cancer, occur due to an unhealthy lifestyle.

According to the American Cancer Society, one- third of Americans die from cancer each year due to poor diet and lack of physical activity. If you need some encouragement to eat better and exercise more – take notice. The American Cancer Society shares these recommendations to reduce your risk for developing cancer and help you live longer and better.

GET TO AND MAINTAIN A HEALTHY WEIGHT. Be as lean as possible throughout life without being underweight.

Avoid excess weight gain at all ages. Losing even a small amount of weight has health benefits.

BE PHYSICALLY ACTIVE AND MOVE! Adults: 150 minutes of moderate intensity or 75 minutes of vigorous intensity each week, spread throughout the week.

Children and teens: Get at least 1 hour of moderate or vigorous intensity activity each day, with vigorous activity on at least 3 days each week.

Limit sedentary behavior, such as sitting, lying down, or screen time.

EAT A HEALTHY DIET WITH AN EMPHASIS ON PLANT FOODS. Choose foods and drinks in amounts that help you get to a healthy weight. Use portion control.

Limit sugary drinks and sports drinks.

Limit processed meat, which can be high in nitrates. Also limit red meat, eating it no more than 3 servings per week.

Eat at least 2 ½ cups of vegetables and fruits each day; the more color the better. Fresh is best, but frozen is just as nutritious. Canned is also a good choice.

Choose whole grains instead of refined grain products. Choose whole foods more often than processed foods.

If you drink alcohol, limit your intake to 1 per day for women and 2 per day for men.

(2012, January 11). ACS Guidelines on Nutrition and Physical Activity for Cancer Prevention. Retrieved August 6, from http://cancer.org/healthy.

Nutrition Resources for Those with Cancer American Cancer Society Complete Guide to Nutrition for Cancer Survivors: Eating Well, Staying Well During and After Cancer Abby S. Bloch, PhD, RD, Barbara Grant, MS, RD, CSO, LD, Kathryn K. Hamilton, MA, RD, CDN, CSO, and Cynthia A. Thomson, PhD, RD The Cancer-Fighting Kitchen: Nourishing, Big-Flavor Recipes for Cancer Treatment and Recovery Rebecca Katz and Mat Edelson 20 / The Journey - October 2012

The Whole-Food Guide for Breast Cancer Survivors: A Nutritional Approach to Preventing Recurrence (The New Harbinger WholeBody Healing Series) Edward Bauman, MEd, PhD, Helayne Waldman, MS, EdD, and Donald I. Abrams, MD

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

Your Community hometown talent 22 did you know 28 calendar 30 inspiring woman 32

Memorial Health System of East Texas Staff

YOURCOMMUNITY | HOMETOWN TALENT

Y

Beautiful Things. vette Alverson’s love of paint began at the age of thirteen when she stripped the paint off an old red, white and blue dresser from her brothers’ room and painted it to match her own room’s 1972 black and lemon yellow palette. Forty years later, her business, Beautiful Things out of the Dust, was born.

I found color inspiration in things that I love, such as old pieces of furniture, fabrics, and memories that have made indelible images in my mind. I used all of it to create my palette. One is a pink tone called, “Wrapped Around My Pinky”, which reminds me of the calamine lotion dotted all over us as kids at our family farm and used as an antidote for chigger bites. Another is “Orange You Gorgeous” and it is a tribute to my grandmother’s signature coral lipstick.

The blue, called “Knox Three Times” is the color of our grandson, Knox’s eyes.

“Vanilla Paper” is what my second grade students call Manila paper.

“A breast cancer diagnosis for me, coupled with my best friend’s death from lung cancer all in the same year, sent me searching for beauty in the midst of pain. Anne Frank said, ‘I don’t think of all the misery, but of the beauty that still remains.’ After undergoing a mastectomy with reconstruction, and seeing my friend through a battle with cancer that ravaged her body before it took her life, I was still confident that there had to be good in all of it.

I began to paint everything I sold with my own chalk finish paint, and it wasn’t long before customers at the sales wanted to buy the paint for their own projects. Packaging chalk finish paint in pints reduced the cost and allowed customers to purchase just enough for an average project. It has been very popular with our clients and has also done well at the Round Top Antiques Weekend. In August, my Etsy shop, SaleAtTheBarn, was launched so that the chalk finish paint could be purchased online.

There is a song by the band, Gungor, called Beautiful Things and it speaks of beauty being created out of the dust. One of the lines says, ‘You make beautiful things out of the dust, You make beautiful things out of us.’ When I heard it, it became a turning point in my life and redirected my focus.

The Sale at the Barn has become a monthly venue to sell furniture and paint, and we have expanded to include vendors outdoors.

I have years of background in painted finishes and even had a faux finish painting business for awhile. I knew it was a gift from God, but didn’t exactly understand another aspect of it. I found I could escape to our barn, isolate myself from the outside stresses and tune into my Creator. I discovered it was worship for me.

I began to collect, restore, and up-cycle furniture pieces to be re-loved by someone new. They were old, cracked and dusty; castoffs and misfits that were no longer desirable, found in barns, homes, trash piles, Goodwill, and garages. But looking past the imperfections, I saw the beauty of each piece.

Each one was unique and loved.

My husband, Clay (and best half of this team) hauled them to our barn, where he glued, nailed and sanded, making the broken parts sturdy again. Then I got to work using my paint to transform the piece into a new creation that was solid, beautiful and ready to be used again.

As we would chip away at a particularly hard piece, I would think about how God has to sometimes chip away at me to get the results He’s looking for.

He finds us when we are undesirable; dusty misfits and castoffs in homes, barns, trash piles, Goodwill and garages. He lovingly restores our broken parts, recreating us as beautiful things.

Our first Beautiful Things Furniture sale was in June of 2011, upstairs in the downtown loft of our daughters’ clothing boutique. Each time we had a sale, the demand was greater and the inventory grew. We quickly outgrew the space, and my best half said he had moved his last armoire up the stairs to the loft. So we moved to our barn at 601 S. Bynum and began having monthly sales there.

In the early stages of the business, I started with paint off the shelf from various home improvement centers, and although it looked fine, I preferred the look and patina I could achieve with paint that had a chalk finish. I bought some and loved using it, but it was quite expensive. I researched all the ways to make my own recipe of chalk finish paint using ready- made paint formulas. After spending a great deal of cash on test supplies, along with hours of trying different ratios of additives, I found what I consider to be the perfect paint with the perfect finish for my reclaimed pieces.

22 / The Journey - October 2012

Persevering the past couple of years has led me to the realization that every moment is precious and time should be spent with those you love, doing what you love. I have been given an opportunity for great joy, and hope that I will be able to continue to grow the business that has changed my perspective of what success is.

The next sale is set for Saturday, October 20 from 9am-5pm. Interested vendors can contact Yvette at saleatthebarn@gmail.com

tjmag.com / 23

BIG BUCK CONTEST load your gun & aim to win

• Brought to you by East Magazine, Ross Motorsports, Hammer Equipment, & Grogan Clean Care • Thousands of dollars in prizes!

• FREE TO ENTER • Registration sign up is going on now through January 4th, 2013 at sponsoring locations (must be signed up 48 hours prior to submitting buck) • Must be killed in following counties by legal means: Angelina, Nacogdoches, Polk, Houston, Panola, Rusk, San Augustine, Shelby, or Trinity • This includes archery, muzzleloader, and general seasons • Prizes awarded for each of the following winners: Overall, Archery, and Youth (ages 10-17) • Once entered, must take photo at Ross Motorsports in front of contest banner and email to Kevin@tjmag.com to submit buck • Top 10 entries will be scored by a panel of certified B&C and TBGAA scorers at the end of the contest. Winners determined by gross B&C score.

• See complete official rules for contest when signing up at sponsoring locations or at tjmag.com

PLACESANDFACES

Lufkin High School Lil Cheer

tjmag.com / 25

YOURCOMMUNITY | DID YOU KNOW?

DID YOU KNOW? Register your husband and children for our 1st Annual Big Buck Contest.

Register at any participating location: Ross Motorsports, Grogan Clean Care, Hammer Equipment, or EAST Magazine.

The contest is absolutely free. You can go online at www.tjmag.com for the contest rules.

Susan Harris was recognized as the Volunteer of the Month from The Junior League of Lufkin.

Happy 3 year Anniversary to Rebecca Welch and Macy May!

Be sure to like The Journey facebook and be in the know about our Hump Day Giveaways!

Our winners have won- $50 gift card for Smoothie King, massage from Connie and Crew, 1 month tanning from Texas Tanners, and many more prizes!

Like us today to win!

Nacogdoches Pediatric Dentistry will be hosting their annual Halloween Candy Buyback. Dr. Criss will purchase any upopened candy from trick or treaters up to the age of 16 for $1 per pound. All candy collected will be shipped to Operation Gratitude to fill up thousands of care packages for troops overseas. Candy will be collected at Nacogdoches Pediatric Dentistry (1602 East Starr Ave Suite 203, Nacogdoches, TX 75961) from 2 to 6 P.M. on November 1st. For more information visit us on-line at www.nackidsdentist.com.

Jan Moore tion Celebra Memorial ork Trip see

Memorial Hospital is selling raffle tickets with a lot of great prizes for the Power of Pink luncheon! Tickets are available now. The money raised goes back to indigent patients who cannot afford medical care.

New Y l Stay and Ticket to , Hote Air Fare Michael Roundtrip Kelly and Live! with

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Name Phone E-mail

Air Conditioning & Heating Services: HVAC Equipment Installation Emergency Service / HVAC Repair Preventative Maintenance / Service Agreements Geothermal Services Home Performance Evaluation Commercial HVAC Factory Trained Technicians 24 Hour Service

Visit our NEW office at 918 E. Denman Ave. in Lufkin!

(936) 639-1668 | www.mcwilliamsandson.com

FREE WHATABURGER

速

with the purchase of a medium drink & medium fry

On your next visit, please present this coupon when ordering. Offer not good with any other offer. No subsittutions. Void where prohibited. Excludes add-ons. Limit 1 per customer. Price and participation may vary. This coupon is void in the event of any sale or transfer. Offer expires 12/31/2012.

YOURCOMMUNITY | CALENDAR

calendar of events

6

The Ugly Duckling & The Tortoise and the Hare

By Lightwire Theater at the Temple Theater on the Angelina College Campus. 2:30 – 3:30. Best for ages 5-9. Children, $5. Adults $10. For more information, call the box office at 936.633.5454 or visit www.angelinaarts.org

Free Dyslexia Awareness Breakfast

Reformation Sunday

6

St. Cyprian’s Episcopal School.

8:30-10:30. RSVP: 632-1720

First Presbyterian Church will celebrate their Scottish roots with bagpiper Jimmy Mitchell and shortbread cookies. Dr. Brian Wiggins will be conducting the worship service beginning at 10:45 at 607 Jane-way (off South First Street behind Peltier Chevrolet). For more information call 936-634-6711.

3rd Annual Lufkin’s Bistro Downtown Lufkin from 7-10pm. Tickets $30 per person or $300 for a reserved table for 8.

For more information, call 936.633.0349 or www.visitlufkin.com

6-12

Fine Forgiveness Week Judy B. McDonald Public Library in Nacogdoches. This is a week of fine amnesty for those who return overdue library books in good condition. Fees 10 years or older will also be forgiven. For those with current library fines or lost books less than 10 years old, 50% of fees may be forgiven, or patrons may choose to donate $20 to The Boys and Girls Club to have those fees waived. Please note that materials must be returned in person to a library staff member. For more information, please call the library at 559-2970 or visit the website at http://npl.sfasu.edu

10-14

19

20

City of Lufkin Heritage Festival The Lufkin Civic Center. Activities begin at 10 :00am. Free Admission. For more information, call 936.633.0205.

25

Denim & Diamonds Annual fundraising event for the Pregnancy Help Center of Lufkin. For more information, call 936.632.9292.

27

Pumpkin Party The Museum of East Texas. 1:00-3:00pm.

Decorate a pumpkin and enjoy a variety of Halloween activities. Free admission. Children under 12 must be accompanied by a parent or guardian. For more information, call 936.639.4434

27

Pineywoods Fair

Scare on the Square

The Nacogdoches Exposition Center. For more information, call 936.564.0849

Downtown Nacogdoches. 4:00-7:00pm.

Children and parents are invited to enjoy a variety of Halloween activities. For more information, contact 936.559.2573

12 & 13

Monster Mania The George H. Henderson, Jr. Exposition Center in Lufkin. Begins at 7:30pm both nights. For more information, visit www.teammotorjam.com

13

3rd Annual Pineywoods Cattle Baron’s Gala The Moore Farm in Pollok, Texas.

Proceeds benefit cancer awareness.

For more information, contact the American Cancer Society at 936.634.2883 or visit www.pineywoodscattlebaronsgala.org

27

Octoberfest Angel of Joy Lutheran church from 10 - 5.

Enjoy German food and an oompah band coming in from Germany.

28

31

Downtown Trick or Treat in Lufkin.

Children are invited downtown to trick or treat at various businesses. 3:00-5:00pm. For more information, call 936.633.0205

11/1

Nacogdoches Pediatric Dentistry 1st Annual Candy Buy Back Dr. Jennifer Criss and the staff of Nacogdoches Pediatric Dentistry are hosting their 1st Annual Halloween Candy Buyback. After Halloween, Dr. Jennifer Criss will purchase unopened candy from trick-or-treaters up to the age of 16 for $1 per pound. All candy collected will be shipped to Operation Gratitude to fill up thousands of care packages for troops overseas.

Candy will be collected at Nacogdoches Pediatric Dentistry located at 1602 East Starr Ave Suite 203, Nacogdoches, TX 75961 from 2:00 to 6:00 P.M. For more information visit us on-line at www.NacKidsDentist.com or e-mail us at media.crissdds@gmail.com.

11/2-11/3

Winter Bazaar Hosted by Harmony Christian School. Friday 4-7pm and Saturday 10-2 at the Life Outreach Center, located on the corner of Feagin and Loop 287. Shop various vendors for all of your holiday needs. Free Admission. For vendor information, contact 936.632.1905 or visit www.harmonychristianschool.org

To submit your event for the November issue, email your event to calendar@tjmag.com by October 20th.

only at

NOW CARRYING (936) 564-3937 • Se Habla Español

3208 N. University Drive • Nacogdoches www.nacogdocheseyeassociates.com Hours: M-T-W & F 8-5:30, Th 8-7, 1st & 3rd Sat. 9-12

Dr. Rushing | Dr. Saldaña | Dr. Risner

YOURCOMMUNITY | INSPIRING WOMAN

TEMPLE RODRIGUEZ “Be strong and courageous. Do not be afraid or discouraged. For the Lord your God is with you wherever you go.” Joshua 1:9

T

emple Rodriguez was born and raised in Nacogdoches and is proud to still be giving back to her childhood community. She is the daughter of Robert and Lynda Greer, the founders and owners of Greer’s, a complete residential and commercial interior store on the brick streets of downtown Nacogdoches.

She and her two sisters, Tyane and Terri, enjoyed growing up in a close-knit community. While attending Nacogdoches High School, Temple was active in many organizations; she was a cheerleader, served on student council, and was a class officer.

After graduating in 1984, she attended Texas A&M. In 1989, she graduated with her degree in kinesiology and began teaching history and physical education in Woden. She also coached varsity softball and assisted in coaching basketball.

In 1996, Temple married Gilbert Rodriguez.

The couple knew they wanted to have children, but the journey became difficult when they experienced 3 miscarriages over a 2 ½ year span. In God’s timing, she became pregnant and decided to leave her career of teaching and coaching. In November 1999, Temple and Gilbert welcomed their son, Grayson, into their family.

Temple began working with her parents at Greer’s. She was familiar with the business of design, having worked many Saturdays, summers and holidays. Thirteen years later, she still loves every minute of working in the family business.

To the outside world, everything seems great for the Rodriguez family now, but everyone has their battles; no one is ex-

empt. Here, in her own words, is the story of Temple’s battle with breast cancer.

My extended family is very large. A lot of people laugh and say that I am related to most of Nacogdoches County. My mother had 2 brothers, Paul and Bill Kendrick, both of whom we lost to cancer. Both she and her sister, Betty Perry, have had cancer.

Those 4 siblings had 13 children. Of those 13, we have lost 3 to cancer; Jana Kendrick Hughey, Jeff Kendrick, and Terri Gehrmann. My sister, Terri, passed away 2 years ago from a twelve year battle with breast cancer. Three more of us are cancer survivors; Karla Kendrick Anders, Jerri Perry Turner, and myself.

Because of our family’s history with cancer, M.D. Anderson wanted to do a study on us. Thankfully, I was put into the breast cancer study, and I went to Houston to begin the process. I knew something was troublesome when they kept re-taking mammogram pictures. After the third time they made me re-take them, they could tell I was getting anxious. Finally, they thought they had enough pictures, and they sent me home. It was a very nerve-racking day.

I came home to Nacogdoches and went about my daily routines. One afternoon when I checked the mail, I received a letter from MD Anderson requesting I return for more mammograms. Instantly, I had a bad feeling in the pit of my stomach. I put the letter on the table next to my husband and said, “This can’t be good.” I kept living life and going about my routines. After all, I had a 7-year old that needed his mother.

I went back for more mammograms. I stood there in the flattering hospital gown

and asked them to show me on the screen what had them so concerned. The nurse pointed out a tiny area of very small dots.

For lack of a better description, they looked like 7 grains of sand. I had a biopsy and went home to await the results.

I was in the shop sitting across from my sister, Terri, who also worked at Greer’s, when the phone rang. I answered the phone like always, and this is what I remember hearing. “This is Stephanie, Dr. Merik’s scheduling nurse. I am calling you to go over the biopsy results. We usually do this in office, but since you are out of town, I felt a call would be better. You have incitu carcinoma...barely a stage one.” From that moment on, all I could hear was blah, blah, blah...kind of like what Charlie Brown’s teacher sounds like. I wrote it down on a paper for my sister to read, and she just took the phone from me. At this point, Terri had been fighting breast cancer for 9 years. She was always a take charge king of girl, and she gladly handled the phone conversation for me.

I sat there kind of numb. I couldn’t believe it. After all my family had been through, all the days of bad reports we had received, I honestly couldn’t believe it.

My sister took down the details and hung up the phone. She sat back down across from me and reassured me the cancer was found very early, and I needed to face it head on. I didn’t cry. I took a deep breath and said, “Okay, I can deal with everything but telling Mom and Pops. I just can’t give them any more bad news.

You have to tell them for me.” Our family had dealt with so much sadness; I couldn’t find the words to say.

photography by Morgan Due

“So we fix our eyes not on what is seen, but on what is unseen, since what is seen is temporary, but what is unseen is eternal.�

-2 Corinthians 4:18

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YOURCOMMUNITY | INSPIRING WOMAN

Both of my sisters accompanied me to my next appointment. My doctor wanted to do a partial mastectomy. The margins were not cleared and they were going to have to do it again. It was at that time that I decided to be aggressive and do a double mastectomy with reconstruction, even though my cancer was only in one breast. Some of my friends and family questioned the aggressive decision.

My sister had been through such a long and horrible fight that being aggressive is what I had to do for peace of mind.

After having time to digest the news of being told you have cancer, it hits you like a ton of bricks. I was putting up a strong front during the day. My son had seen what his aunt was enduring. He knew what cancer could do, and I didn’t want him to be scared. I had to be strong, but at night I would lay awake worrying. Satan would definitely try to scare me with all sorts of thoughts. I would think, “It is going to be worse than they think, and I could die. Grayson won’t remember me.” I would just lay there and cry. I realized it was out of

my control. I had to get a hold of myself and find peace. I took a deep breath and prayed, “Dear God, this is bigger than me. This is out of my control, and I have to give this burden to you.” Every time I got scared, I prayed that prayer, and every time, almost immediately, I could feel Him wrap His arms around me and lift me up. Even today, if something worries me, that is the prayer I pray.

In February 2007, I had a double mastectomy.

It took 16 hours. My husband stayed the first night and then my sister, Tyane, stayed the next 4 days. She was a drill sergeant. You should have heard her making me walk those halls dragging the IV pole. I am so thankful she was there for me. The doctor said I would not feel well for a very long time. Another doctor told me that I would probably not have any more children. He said, “You will win the lottery twice before you have another child.

You had a hard time in your early thirties to have the child you have. At almost 42 years old, it won’t happen.” I was fine with that, but God had different plans. Nearly one year to

that date, I had our second son, Garner. He is such a blessing.

I have the best friends and family as my support group. They were wonderful, and I will NEVER be able to repay them for all that was done for me. I had friends who picked my child up from school every day, organized meals being brought to my home, set up support pages online and even changed my dressings and drain tubes. They went above and beyond. My husband had to clean my incisions twice a day, and this labor of love took him over 45 minutes each time. He took so much care as he meticulously looked over each one of my 12 incisions.

My mom cooked endless meals and watched my son. I am not good at being helpless, but during this journey, that is exactly what I was.

When I think about my future, I know it is bright. I still make regular trips to MD Anderson, but only as a preventative measure. My future is bright because of my family, friends and faith, and when it comes down to it, that’s really all anyone has. I am so blessed.

Your Life breast cancer tribute 36 girls group 38 relationships 40 stretch marks 42

Hairstylist, Sabrina Sutherland • Elegant Images | photographed by Morgan Due

YOURLIFE | BREAST CANCER TRIBUTE Yvette Alverson Our mom, Yvette Alverson, won her battle against breast cancer in 2010. She is the bravest, strongest, most amazing woman of God we know, and we thank Him every day for her! –Tyler, Jessica & Tori

Nene Curry My mom is my hero.

She is the strongest person I know, and cancer just proved it once again. She battled and beat breast cancer three years ago, and I am thrilled to say she is cancer free today!!

I love you Mama.

-Chrissy Smith

Susan Nichols This is Susan Nichols. She had battled breast cancer for two years before she lost her battle in November 2011 at the age of 47. She was a loving mother, daughter, wonderful sister, passionate Mimi, amazing mother-in-law and caring friend.

She was loved by many and will be missed by all.

-Marliese Jackson, daughter-in-law

Coy Jo Martin You are an inspiration to us all! We are so thankful to have you as our mother, grandmother and great-grandmother! We love you! Love, Your family

Jennie Freeman Jennie is an amazingly strong woman. The past few years have been rough for her, but she has remained positive. She courageously battled chemo & radiation, and is now cancer free! She’s an incredible & caring mother, wife, Grams and friend, & we’re very blessed to have her in our lives! Love, Your Family

Terri Gehrmann Terri passed away in March of 2010 after 11 long years of battling cancer. She was a blessing to everyone around her.

Her faith was greater than anyone I have ever known. Her love for the Lord was admirable and I know she is now celebrating with Him in Heaven.

- Courtney Gehrmann

tjmag.com / 37

YOURLIFE | GIRLS GROUP

L&S FLOOR WORKS INC

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With L & S Floor Works, the possibilities are endless. We have a complete line of floor coverings, ceramic tile, stone and more to meet your individual style. Whether casual, contemporary, traditional, etc, we can bring to life whatever you imagine.

We offer that "personal touch" from an experienced staff that you can't get from one of the big box stores. Do you have an idea, but not the time or decorator touch to make it happen? We can design a room that you will love. We encourage you to come and visit our showroom and browse our vast line of products.

L & S Floor Works has been serving Deep East Texas for 15 years. We are proud to offer quality products and dependable craftsmanship.

Located in the heart of the PineyWoods, L & S is your complete flooring center.

Mention this ad, & we will donate 1% of your purchase price to American Cancer Society for the entire month of October.

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H

HEELS to HEAL

eels to Heal is a group of women birthed out of love, pain, and a shared bond.

needing to raise as much with fewer team members, they raised about $20,000 for the Dallas 3-day. That year, the Dallas event raised over $7 million.

“In 2010, Angie Lowery, Martha Vines, and I joined a team named Pink Pavement Princesses, primarily because of Angie’s friend, Sherri Foster, who had been diagnosed with breast cancer. At about the same time, my sister, Leslie Cooper, was also diagnosed and was battling the disease,” said Jonan Derric.

This year, they raised $30,000 for the Dallas 3-Day. Of course there are new members that wanted to be a part of this wonderful event, along with a few veterans: Martha Vines, Kym Bowen, Lisa Perry, Cheryl Ball, Tonja Greenfield, Pam Lowery, Natilee James, Wendy Pyle, Brooke Maddux and Jonan Derrick.

The Pink Pavement Princesses was made up of twentyfour ladies, mostly from the Hemphill area. Some were actual breast cancer survivors, like Sherri, and others were personally touched by the disease in some way.

Derrick says, “That year we raised money to walk in the Susan G Komen 3-day in Dallas by selling t-shirts and BBQ, hosting a softball tournament and skeet shoot and having the first $5000 steak dinner. We raised over $50,000 that year.”

Through the experience, Angie, Martha and Jonan became great friends that year. Now they joke about being “blister sisters,” but really it’s no joke.

At the 3-day walk in 2010, they slept in pink tents in Dallas. Derrick says, “There’s something to be said about friendship when you get into camp after walking 19 miles and find that they have put up your tent for you. They practically lead you to dinner and point you to the 18-wheelers that house the showers. Completely exhausted, we laid down to sleep in the 30 degree weather. Needless to say, it was an experience! We told ourselves that if someone could go through the trenches of diagnosis, chemo, radiation, nausea, painful days and night, etc., then we could walk a few miles.”

This experience has created a very deep bond.

Team leader Jonan Derrick’s heartfelt rendition of the 3-day walk, “It is extremely painful and is a great commitment. Then I think to myself there’s something about seeing the ladies who are survivors, the people who have been personally affected by breast cancer.

The inspiration you get from the ones who walk that shouldn’t, because they are not physically able.

Between rest stops and pit stops during the walk, there are cheer stations. The people at those cheer stations are unbelievable!! They thank you for walking and encourage you to keep going. When I would approach a cheer station, I would prepare myself to try and keep my emotions in check. Those cheer stations would put clouds under my feet and lift me up so high I felt like I was being spiritually pushed to keep going. It would give me the drive and determination I needed to make it. I can only imagine what my sister went through when she started her journey to beat breast cancer. At first, the determination to do it after diagnosis, then the pain comes during the journey. Then, the cheer stations full of people who supported her would lift her up, giving her a sense of clouds under her feet, and it would supply her with the determination to keep going. She did it. She’s a survivor!”

Heels to Heal will take part of the 2012 Susan G.Komen 3-day in Dallas on November 2-4.

In 2011, the ladies decided to create a new team in the Lufkin/Nacogdoches area. That is where “Heels to Heal” began. That year, the teammates were Kym Bowen, Kate Vines, Lisa Perry, Cheryl Ball, Angie Lowery, Martha Vines, and Jonan Derrick. In 2011, not

(Left): Cheryl & Lisa, on the walk last year. Everyone carried some sort of pack that held what they might need for the day.

(Middle): This picture was taken at closing ceremonies last year. All who walk get a t-shirt, as you see the ladies wearing. If you are a survivor, your t-shirt is pink. Jennifer Leuschner, Lisa Perry, & Cheryl Ball. (Right): This is a picture of this year’s team with the winner of our $5000 giveaway. L to R- Pam Lowery, Brooke Maddux, Jonan Derrick, Wendy Pyle, Lisa Perry, Brian Warner, Natilee James, Cheryl Ball, Kym Bowen, Martha Vines. Not pictured: Tonja Greenfield.

PLACESANDFACES

Naranjo Museum of Natural History Grand Opening

tjmag.com / 39

NEVER LOSE

SIGHT OF FINDING

a cure

by Kathryn Greene

YOURLIFE | RELATIONSHIPS

I Lost My Best Friend!

F

or us women, we find it refreshing to spend time with friends eating lunch together at our favorite tea room, doing some “retail therapy”, hanging out at the coffee shop after the kids have been put to bed, laughing together over the silliest things, playing “bunko”, going to a “chick flick”, cooking together, taking the kids to the park, and the list goes on. We love spending time with friends. Some friends are friends for life, and some cross our path for a short time, but stay in our heart forever. Some friends we may not see very often, but we can pick up right where we left off the last time we saw each other.

You are considered a very “wealthy” person if you have one true friend. Many people have not known that blessing. I think about the qualities of a friend; a friend is someone you connect with, you trust with your heart – your secrets, they accept you, flaws and all, and they are there no matter what! The Bible says a friend is someone who sticks closer than a brother! A true friend tells you the truth even when it hurts. They come alongside you when you are going through a loss or difficult time and give you a shoulder to lean on and/or cry on. You cannot buy a friend – even on Craig’s list! True friendship is a rare find and needs to be carefully protected.

I am sure that you have heard the cliché or even said it yourself, “You look like you lost your best friend!” What does that look like? To have lost a relationship with a person like the one I described above, you would probably look like you were grieving over the loss of a very significant person in you life. I am sure there would be a lot of tears, a very sad countenance, and days filled with feelings of depression.

There are times that friendships do end suddenly without warning. They may end over frivolous things, like each person’s child getting into a scuffle and one parent over reacts while the other parent cannot forgive. A friendship may end and you never know the real reason behind it. Sometimes, friends part ways when one person’s life events become so traumatic that the other person finds it too difficult to persevere in the relationship. Some friendships experience betrayal of some kind, making it too difficult to continue the meaningful friendship they had together.

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It is so hard to get past those types of breaks in a friendship. There are a lot of losses, other than death, that we need to give ourselves permission over which to grieve. This would be one of those losses. First of all, give yourself permission to grieve. If you don’t, you will harbor hurt in your heart for a long, long time. Take time to journal your thoughts and feelings; it helps to get them out of your mind and on paper. Find a safe place to just cry your heart out! Then you need to offer forgiveness for what they did to you. You may say, “They didn’t ask for my forgiveness.”

However, you do it in your heart even if you never have the opportunity to verbally offer it to them. You want to keep from becoming bitter, because bitterness is like yeast to a batter – it spreads and affects the whole. When bitterness takes root in your heart, it turns into anger and affects not only your attitude and outlook on life, but everyone around you. The natural feeling is to think that you will never have another close friend! Thinking this makes you the dealing with feelings of aloneness and isolation. The one who hurt you will go on living life. You will be missing out on the joy of other relationships. Give yourself some time to get back on your emotional feet, and then open up the eyes of your heart to someone with whom you can have a meaningful relationship. They need to be someone of integrity, with your same values, and who can lift you up rather than pull you down.

You can’t control others! Some people will eventually hurt you, but there are many who will always love you and be a good friend.

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by Melissa Radke

YOURLIFE | STRETCH MARKS

I

the dirtiest word ’m teaching my kids about words. There are “good” words, like “thank you”, “please” and “sorry.” And there are bad words, like “stupid”, “hate” and “ugly.” It makes me think of when I was growing up. Words were relegated to those two groupings back then, too. Good words and bad words.

Words you used when grandma came to visit.

Words you learned on the school bus.

But then I got older and good words and bad words took on a whole new meaning, didn’t they?

For those looking at that EPT test, “positive” became a good word. For those about to walk down the aisle, “married” became a good word. For those of us who are fortunate enough to have it, “love” is a beautiful word. But when we get older it seems to me like the good words get “gooder” and the bad words get “badder”.

I hate the word divorce. I loathe the word addiction. And I despise the word adultery.

But the word that seems the dirtiest of all? Cancer.

There it is. A six letter word. But it’s enough to stop traffic, isn’t it? It’s enough to make a medical waiting room full of people sit silently and anxiously. It’s enough to make a person feel a bone-rattling fear. It’s enough to make people fall to their knees, throw their head in their hands, and hold their loved ones tighter.

What other word is so ugly? I can’t think of one.

I have been affected by cancer twice in my life, and both times were with my mother. Soon after my mom was diagnosed with kidney cancer, they found a lump in her breast. I was much younger than I am now, and I dealt with the word “cancer” like a lot of 17 and 18 year olds; I tossed my hair, ran to my room and wrote down in my journal how this would affect me. I also became part of a small percentage of people in this world who have a loved one diagnosed with cancer – not once, but twice – and they live to tell about it. Blessed, indeed.

But then I got older and I started noticing that cancer creeps in to every one of our lives in some form or fashion.

Then it was my girlfriend; my stunningly gorgeous girlfriend with long, thick, brown hair and big brown eyes. She had a mole that looked peculiar. All her hair went away and her eyes sunk deep down into her head, and the girl that was once known for her beauty became known, instead, for her strength.

Then it was my cousin, Randy, my IDOL growing up as a child. She taught me how to sunbathe with baby oil and gave me my first taste of listening to Prince. She was everything I wanted to be. Now she wakes up sick and weak, and the hair I used to spend hours trying to emulate is shorter now, and thinner. She’s just as beautiful – if not more so – than she ever was.

Then it was my Pastor’s wife in Tennessee. She thought she had the flu. She didn’t. Now she sits in chemotherapy once a week while her husband sits beside her, at times stopping to tie the shoe of the elderly woman next to them, who sits there with cancer. All alone.

And now it is my best friend Janet’s, sister, Jaime. Jaime, who grew up just a few years younger than me. Jaime, who sat a few rows up from me at church my whole life. Jaime, who always won Bible quiz games and knew every answer to every Sunday school question. Jaime, who could recite the books of the Bible before me (and by “before me” I mean, she could recite them at 12 and I still can’t.) Jaime, who graduated from college and without a spouse, a car or a care in the world, left everything she knew and moved to China, because the people there meant more to her than her comfort here. Jaime, who married a missionary and committed her life to something bigger and greater than most of us ever will, fulfilling the needs of others. Jaime, who came home because of a lump she found in her breast. Jaime, who sat in every doctor’s appointment at MD Anderson asking, “When can we go back to China?” Jaime, who at the time of this writing, is fighting cancer in the worst and ugliest way.

And once again the word “cancer” becomes the dirtiest, foulest, meanest word I’ve ever heard. It happens to the good and the not so good.

It happens to the youngest and the oldest, the honest and the dishonest. It is no respecter of persons and sometimes the harder you fight, the meaner it becomes. Just ask Jaime.

Just ask all the families who have spent hours around a bedside.

Who have held their wives hands during a chemo session.

Or have tied the shoes of a weakened soldier.

Ask the women who have shaved their heads and still looked stunning.

Who have thrown up all morning and hosted a child’s birthday party all afternoon.

Ask the women who have won. Think about the women who have lost.

And today, as your children climb off the bus and you hear a word or two slip out of their mouth, discipline them. But then silently pray that the word they just spoke is the dirtiest word that they will ever have to learn in their sweet little lifetime.

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

In fact, she insists.

Photo courtesy of Images by Becki

The Moore family is thrilled to host this year’s Pineywoods Cattle Baron’s Gala. Cancer has affected this family, and it is a cause in which they are all involved. With its rolling pasture land, sparkling lake, and quaint farmhouse, the Moore Farm paints a pastoral scene. It is a place where several generations of Moore family members have spent time fishing, swimming, and enjoying family get-togethers. The farm was purchased by Moore Brothers Construction in 1956. The original purchase was for 50 acres. In 1957, an additional 160 acres were bought, with more added over the years. Now, the Moore Farm boasts 375 acres. As a working farm in Pollok, it is home to Moore Angus Farm, a cattle business established in 1964 by Lloyd Moore. The business is now a partnership between Raymond Moore and his son, Brian.

tjmag.com / 43

CAS EY JAME S

44 / The Journey - October 2012

tjmag.com / 45

46 / The Journey - October 2012

Photo courtesy of Images by Becki

Your Body fashion 48 makeup box 50 women’s health 51 fitness 52 beauty 54

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

YOURBODY | FASHION

1

falling into

FALL FASHION

F

all is one of my favorite seasons, both in terms of weather (it’s not 100 degrees anymore) and fashion. When I think of fall, I think of crisp leaves beneath my tall knee-high boots, earthy colored tops, dark skinny jeans and warm sweaters. Here are 5 of my favorite and most wearable fall 2012 fashion trends.

2

1. Burgundy It’s rich, romantic and very flattering on almost anyone. Burgundy is everywhere this fall, from scarves and handbags to lips and nails. This rich color will look good in anything: a skirt, top, sweater, heels, jeans or pants.

2. Animal Prints The animal print trend continues and comes in many forms from zebra to cheetah to leopard to snake. You can pull off this trend on any piece of your outfit. I love this look on accessories, such as shoes, handbags and belts. If you’re not into actually wearing an animal print, simply add a touch by tying a small animal print scarf onto the strap of your handbag.

3. Sweaters Everyone loves cozy sweaters. This fall’s warmand-fuzzy knits come in a variety of colors and patterns. Try pairing an oversized sweater in an earthy, fall hue (burgundy, olive, brown, cream) with skinny jeans and ballet flats.

4 3

4. Black and Blue This is for sure the ‘IT’ color combo for fall.

This season, cobalt blue is a stylish alternative to navy. Try this look with black pants and a blue chiffon top, or if you already have blue pants just add a black blazer.

5. Knee-High Boots Knee-high boots look awesome with almost any outfit. They are a classic staple for fall and winter, and they are so versatile. Popular this season in leather and suede, knee-high boots will look great with a skirt, tucked into jeans or with an oversized knit sweater. These are a ‘must-have’ for seasons to come. Best of all, this is a look that never goes out of style.

48 / The Journey - October 2012

5

Jessica (Jess) is a 28-year old brunette born and raised in Lufkin. She is in love with fashion and wearing high heels, even though she’s 5’10’’. She graduated from Stephen F. Austin with a Fashion Merchandising degree. She and her husband live in Houston with their 2 dogs, Bella and Bentley. She is an assistant buyer for a department store in Houston, Texas. She and her sister-in-law, Jo, have their own fashion blog

where they share their love of fashion on a budget.

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YOURBODY | MAKEUP BOX

pretty in pink

T

his month, you can show your support and help raise awareness for breast cancer by purchasing these fabulous products from companies who are donating the proceeds towards the fight.

Pretty Pink Pout by Estee Lauder $25.00 purchased from Belk or esteelauder.com Estee Lauder Pink Ribbon Collection is a trio of lipsticks in a chic clutch. Estee Lauder will donate $500,000 from the sales of its Pink Ribbon Collection to the Breast Cancer Research Foundation.

Painted Pink by OPI $8.50 purchased from Expressive Images or opi.com Great for any mani or pedi, this pale pink polish, with just a hint of shimmer, is just what you need to support the cure. Created exclusively for the Susan G. Komen foundation, OPI will be donating $25,000 to the charity.

Brush Set by Sonia Kashuk $12.00 at Target Stores or target.com This stylish set is perfect for travel or every day use. The mini set comes with four essential brushes designed by make-up artist Sonia Kashuk, a breast cancer survivor.

Fifteen percent of the purchase price benefits the Breast Cancer Research Fund.

Kenra Spray 25 – Super Hold Finishing Spray $24.00 at local salons This super all-day hold and fast-drying formula is the perfect finish for any style. It imparts maximum volume and control and provides excellent humidity resistance. Kenra pledges to donate $25,000 to City of Hope, a leading research and treatment institution for cancer.

Pink Pop-up Travel Brush $10.00 at sephora.com This brush is designed to fit neatly in your purse, making it a perfect travel companion, with proceeds going towards a good cause. The compact opens to reveal a mirror and pop-up brush inside.

You can read more about all of these products and the foundations they are benefitting at www.harpersbazaar.com Raegan Cassels Williamson is a wife, mother, nurse and cosmetic enthusiast. She has put her career on hold to be a mother to her two-year old son, Legend. In her spare time, she owns her own business, Airbrush Artistry. She specializes in airbrush tanning, airbrush and traditional makeup applications and makeup tutorials.

50 / The Journey - October 2012

by Jennifer Stevens

WOMEN’S HEALTH

| YOURBODY

Breast Cancer Screening can Save Lives

O

ctober is National Breast Cancer Awareness Month and the perfect time to discuss the importance of mammography. Because breast cancer is often detectable in its early stages when there’s a good chance for a cure, breast cancer screening is essential to early detection.

Most significantly, mammography is an important line of defense against breast cancer, because it can identify tumors even before they can be felt.

According to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention, aside from non-melanoma skin cancer, breast cancer is the most common cancer among women in the United States. It is also one of the leading causes of cancer death among women of all races. In 2008, the most recent year numbers are available, 210,203 women in the United States were diagnosed with breast cancer, and 40,589 women died from the disease.

The National Cancer Institute recommends that women age 40 or older have screening mammograms every 1 to 2 years. If a woman is at high risk for developing breast cancer, her doctor may recommend screening at a younger age, along with additional imaging studies Woodland Heights Medical Center is proud to offer a variety of breast cancer screening techniques and is Accredited in Breast Ultrasound by the American College of Radiology.

Screening and Diagnostic Mammography A conventional screening mammogram is a low-dose X-ray test that creates images of breast tissue so doctors can check for lesions or other abnormalities. The x-ray images make it possible to detect tumors that cannot be felt and can find microcalcifications, tiny deposits of calcium that sometimes indicate the presence of breast cancer.

A mammogram used to check for breast cancer after a lump or other sign or symptom of the disease has appeared is called a diagnostic mammogram. Besides a lump, signs of breast cancer can include breast pain, thickening of the skin of the breast, nipple discharge, or a change in breast size or shape; however, these signs may also be signs of benign or non-cancerous breast conditions.

Digital Mammography The Diagnostic Center at Woodland Heights provides women who undergo routine mammograms up-to-date diagnostic technology through the use of digital mammography.

While digital imaging feels almost identical to conventional mammography, its benefits are a shorter exam times than traditional mammograms and less chance that patients will be called back for repeat exams.

Digital images tend to provide doctors with better visibility of the breast, chest wall and dense breast tissue. Through computer-aided technology, radiologists are able to enhance certain areas of the digital images to get a more precise picture of a patient’s condition.

The digital images can also be stored electronically and later retrieved to share with other doctors, if needed in the future.

To minimize any discomfort of the mammogram, Woodland Heights offers soft foam pads which serve as a cushion between a woman’s breast and the mammography machine, resulting in a warmer and more comfortable mammogram. Although compression is still required, the pads provide an extra level of cushion for the patient.

Digital Computer-Aided Detection To supplement this diagnostic technology, Woodland Heights has a digital computer-aided detection (CAD) system which highlights common characteristics of breast cancer, including masses, clusters of microcalcifications and breast tissue changes.

Breast MRI Magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) of the breast is a test often used to detect breast cancer and other abnormalities in the breast. It is intended to be used in addition to a mammogram or another breast-imaging test. The MRI can capture multiple pictures of the breasts. Once the computer combines those images, it generates very detailed pictures.

A breast MRI is performed when a doctor needs more information than a mammogram, ultrasound, or clinical breast exam can provide.

It is often used for a woman who has a high risk of breast cancer, has a suspicious area on her mammogram, or when a lump can be felt in the breast, but not detectable on a mammogram or ultrasound.

For women with private insurance, the cost of screening mammograms is usually covered without copayments or deductibles, but women should contact their mammography facility or health insurance company for confirmation. In addition, Medicare pays for annual screening mammograms for all female Medicare beneficiaries age 40 or older.

The professionals at Woodland Heights are ready to provide the breast screening technique that is appropriate for the individual woman. Call 936-637-8514 to make your appointment. Visit www.WoodlandHeights.net to learn more about the breast screening options. For more information on various breast diseases and conditions, the anatomy of the breasts, other screening tools and more, visit www.WoodlandHeights.net, choose the “Health Resources” tab and type “Breast Health” in the search box. © Copyright 2012 - Community Health Systems Professional Services Corporation.

These articles are for use by CHS-affiliated hospitals only.

Make your mammogram appointment during the month of October & receive a FREE gift!

YOURBODY | FITNESS

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ne of the best attributes our community shares is that we are a very giving and service oriented group of people. Everyone likes to do their part and pitch in wherever they can. “Party in Pink” is a perfect example.

Rudy Flores, local Zumba Instructor, has put together a Breast Cancer Awareness Zumbathon, “Party in Pink.” This year was his second annual event. The first annual gathering brought in over $2000.00, all of which was given to the Susan G. Komen for the Cure foundation. The money was raised through event sponsorship and local participants.

Flores and Zumba participants wanted to do it again this year.

Rudy says, “This is not only a way to raise money for the cure, but to promote awareness amongst our community. Participants dance and work out, but more importantly, they will get the opportunity to listen to breast cancer survivors share their courageous battle with cancer. ” Zumbathon is taking the nation by storm.

Women are having fun while losing inches.

Flores thought this would be a great way to incorporate fun, giving, and health. This year

was the event’s second annual, but he looks to the future for many more years.

tors alternate leading the group. All instructors donate their time.

“Party in Pink” encourages all who participate to wear pink from head to toe and be ready to Zumba for three hours. This is a fun way to get in shape with a high energy workout!

Through the three hour event, multiple instruc-

Flores has a goal to exceed $2000 and to double what they raised last year. For more information on how to get involved with next year’s Party in Pink, local Zumba classes, or for a fundraiser, contact Rudy Flores, 639-3141.

American Glass Company New Residential & Commercial Construction 800 University Drive Nacogdoches, TX 75961 Ph: 936-569-0819 | Fax: 936-569-0291 Emergency: 936-564-4937 Todd Hargis, Owner

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tjmag.com / 53

YOURBODY | BEAUTY

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PERMANENT COSMETICS

hen it comes to beauty needs, permanent cosmetics is an option for many women.. It is a way for women to have the look and feel of wearing makeup without having to apply and reapply day in and day out.

Lynanne Alsbrooks, with Permanent Cosmetics by Lynanne, offers these services to the East Texas area.

She began her business in 2003. Permanent Cosmetics includes: brows, eyeliner and lips, and lash perm and tint. Lynanne says, “Over the years I’ve also trained in a number of paramedical applications including areola restoration and tattoo removal.” The newest addition to her services is eyelash extensions.

There are so many reasons why Lynanne loves doing what she does.

“My favorite service is always the service that makes my client most happy. I mean, when I complete a service for a client that helps the client get ready quicker in the morning, or my favorite reason is, when it helps the client feel better about their self. I think when a person feels like they look good, it makes the person feel better. I love to see them smile and hear how much they love the makeup.”

One client says, “It is so refreshing to wake up in the morning and have your eyeliner, brows and eyelashes on. I couldn’t think of anything better to help get through the already difficult time of ‘middle age’ than to have makeup permanently placed on my face.”

One important service she offers is “Areola Restoration.” This is one many breast cancer survivors often use. “It’s also very fulfilling to help a woman by restoring an areola after mastectomy and reconstruction. Areola restoration is the last step in restoring a woman’s breast, as close as possible, to what it was before mastectomy. Many women also benefit from permanent cosmetics after cancer treatments, because of hair loss. I love being able to help a person feel whole again after cancer and treatments,” said Lynanne Alsbrooks.

Lynanne was able to learn more about repigmentation while doing research for her mother. Her mother stopped growing brows due to years of over tweezing. She later developed a condition that made her right hand shake and was unable to draw on her brows. While researching, Lynanne realized that there weren’t many people in the area doing permanent cosmetics. Lynanne also realized from the research that repigmenatation is a form of art. “I hear from clients that they do not want their makeup to look like magic marker. I strive to have the makeup look natural, not harsh.”

“Every woman should splurge on the service that would benefit her most.” It is important to choose the permanent cosmetic technician that is licensed and properly trained. For more information on Permanent Cosmetics by Lynanne, call 936-631-1755.

BEFORE

AFTER

permanent brows

Lynanne Alsbrooks, Owner | photograph by Lisa Crow

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First Day of School

Joshua- 2nd Grade Herty Elementary

Dalton 5th Grade

Presley Reese McWilliams- Kindergarten Diboll Elementary

Adriana Gonzalez- 2nd Grade

Emmerson Jackson, 6 yrs- 1st Grade

56 / The Journey - October 2012

Ray Williams, 5 yrs- Kindergarten Diboll Elementary

Keegan Nash, 5 yrs- Pre-K4 Diboll Primary

Jackson- 4K at St. Cyprian’s and Jacob- 2nd Grade at Burley Primary

Barrett Youngblood- 3K St. Cyprians

Grant Stafford, 4 yrs- PACK Kurth Primary

Stella Huckabee, 9 yrs- 4th Grade Central Elementary

Your Child pretty babies 58 parent thoughts 60 look at me 61 birthday bash 62 why i love being a mom 64

YOURCHILD | PRETTY BABIES 3

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1. Matthew Charles Brooks. 8/21/12. Proud Parents: Randall & Stacy Brooks. Proud Grandparents: Don & Amanda Ridgeway.

2. Dallee Alise DeLaFosse. 5/3/11. Proud Parents: Jay & Emily DeLaFosse (Pollok). Proud Grandparents: Danny & Necy Anders (Pollok) / Charles & Linda DeLaFosse (Hudson & Corrigan). 3. Cage James Eby. 7/12/12. Proud Parents: Jimmy & Kasey Eby (Hudson, TX). Proud Grandparents: Dennis & Phil Eby (Nacogdoches, TX) / Melinda Smith (Noble, OK). 4. Skylar Paige Fira.

11/17/11. Proud Parents: Anthony & Alise Fira (Lufkin, TX). Proud Grandparents: Harry & Tina Priesmeyer (Wharton, TX) / Maria French (Wharton, TX) / Eloy R. Fira (Wharton, TX). 5. Hayden Marie Markle. 4/17/12. Proud Parents: Tyler & Nicole Markle (Diboll, TX). Proud Grandparents: Cheryl & Kenneth Bomar (Diboll, TX) / Becky & John Nichols (Ava, MO). 6. Channing Elizabeth Pollard. 8/14/12. Proud Parents: Michael & Michelle Pollard (Garrison, TX). 7. Leelan Alexander Sandoval. 7/3/12.

Proud Parents: David & Melanie Sandoval (Hudson, TX). Proud Grandparents: Richard & Rena Sandoval (Diboll, TX) / Mike & Heidi Murphrey (Hudson, TX). 8. Axel Sotelo. 6/20/12. Proud Parents: Karina & Diego Sotelo (Lufkin, TX). Proud Grandparents: Adriana & Leandro Orta (Lufkin, TX) / Lupita & Rafael Sotelo (Delicias, CH, Mexico).

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

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tjmag.com / 59

by Kelly Finnerud

YOURCHILD | PARENT THOUGHTS

rules of the road Here is the law:The Texas Car Seat Law

requires that all children who are less than eight years old and less than 57 inches (4’9”) MUST be properly secured in a safety restraint system (car seat or booster seat) AND all restraint systems must be installed and used per the manufacturer’s instructions. In other words, if a child is 57 inches or taller, he is not required by law to use a child safety seat system, even if he is younger than eight years old. Children at least 57 inches or ages eight and up (including adults) must be secured by a seat belt provided that the child is occupying a seat equipped with a safety belt.

These laws, however, are bare minimums in terms of safety.

Here are current recommendations: For your infant and young toddler: New recommendations state that children should remain rear-facing until at least age 2, but preferably longer until they’ve reached their convertible car seat’s height or weight limit.

Children under age two are 75% less likely to be killed or suffer severe injuries in a crash if they are riding rear-facing. If a baby is riding in an infant– only seat (usually has a handle and detachable base) it should be replaced with a rear–facing convertible seat before the baby reaches the maximum weight specified (22-35 pounds) or if the top of the head is within an inch of the top edge of the seat. Read your car seat’s manual to see specifications for your seat. Most babies outgrow the typical infant–only seat before they are one year old, but they are not ready for a forward–facing seat. New convertible seats available today allow children to remain rear facing until they weigh 30-45 pounds, depending on the model. Babies have heavy heads and fragile necks, even babies with strong neck muscles and good head control.

If the baby is facing forward in a frontal crash, the most common and most severe type, the body is held back by the straps, but the head is not. The head is thrust forward, stretching the neck and the easily injured spinal cord. Older children in forward–facing safety seats or safety belts may end up with temporary neck injuries or fractures that will heal, but a baby’s neck bones actually separate during a crash, which can allow the spinal cord to be ripped apart. In contrast, when a child rides facing the rear, the whole body - head, neck, and torso - is cradled by the back of the safety seat in a frontal crash.

For your preschooler: Once your child outgrows the rear-facing car seat, he is ready to travel in a forward-facing car seat with a harness until he or 60 / The Journey - October 2012

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realize it’s important to keep my kids safely restrained in our car, but I hear one thing from my pediatrician and something different from safety websites. I honestly have NO idea what the Texas law even says. So I met with a sweet friend, who happens to be a Certified Child Passenger Safety Technician, in hopes she could shed some light on the matter. Amy Armer is passionate about safe car seat use and was more than happy to help clear my muddled brain!

she reaches the car seat manufacturer’s set height or weight limit. The chest clip must be armpit level and the shoulder straps snug. If you can pinch a shoulder strap, it’s not snug. Whether you’re using the lower anchors or the seatbelt for installation, the top tether is very important when your child restraint is forward facing, as it can reduce forward head movement up to 8 inches.

It’s also important to note that car seats usually expire after about 6 years from manufacture.

There may be a use-by date molded into the plastic or on a sticker on the back of the seat. If not, check with the manufacturer. That seat you bought for your firstborn probably isn’t safe for your 3rd child.

Cut the straps and throw it out!

For your child: Once your child outgrows the forward-facing car seat with a harness, it’s time to travel in a booster seat, but still in the back seat. Some younger children may outgrow the limit of the forward-facing car seat with a harness, but may not be ready to stay seated properly in a booster seat using the lap and shoulder belt. If this is the case look for a car seat with a higher size limits.

If you can answer “Yes” to ALL the statements below, your child is okay to use a booster: • There is a shoulder AND lap belt where the child sits.

• The child is at least 40 pounds.

• The child is at least 4 years old.

• The child can sit still the entire trip: without leaning, sitting on their knees, putting shoulder belt under their arm or behind their back, etc.

The 5-Step Test • Does the child sit all the way back against the auto seat?

• Do the child’s knees bend comfortably at the edge of the auto seat?

• Does the belt cross the shoulder between the neck and arm?

• Is the lap belt as low as possible, touching the thighs?

• Can the child stay seated like this for the whole trip?

Make sure to perform the 5-Step Test for every vehicle that your child rides in. They may pass in some cars but not others. Many children will not be able to pass this test until age 10-12 despite the fact that Texas law allows them to ride without a booster at age 8.

After your child passes the 5-Step Test, it is recommended that children under the age of 13 remain properly restrained in a back seat.

Everyone should be buckled up, at all times and on every trip. By wearing your safety belt, you not only protect yourself, you also protect other people inside the vehicle. Unrestrained passengers become projectiles in a crash and can hit other passengers (with thousands of pounds of force). Restrained passengers are up to two times more likely to die if ONE person in the car is unrestrained.

Hopefully this has cleared up the information for you. For citations, graphics, and to find out how to get help from a Certified Child Passenger Safety Technician, visit ParentThoughts.com.

• The child can sit with their back against the booster seat, or against the vehicle seat for a backless booster, with knees bending comfortably at the front edge of the seat.

A booster seat positions the vehicle’s safety belt properly on a child by making sure the lap belt rests on the child’s lap, over the strong hip bones and nowhere near the soft belly. When a child rides on a booster, he must use the vehicle’s shoulder AND lap belt across him. It’s extremely important for kids to ride in boosters, because a child’s bone structure is too small and underdeveloped to keep the safety belt in the proper place during a crash. A 4-8 year old child riding in a booster is 59% less likely to be injured in a crash than a 4-8 year old wearing a safety belt alone.

When can my child stop using a booster?

Do not stop using a booster seat unless you can answer “yes” to ALL of the questions listed here - no matter how tall, how heavy, or how old he or she is!

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

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1. Summer Archery Camp at St. Cyprian’s School. Afternoon Session (L-R): Front: Grace Love, Gabriel Love, Zachary Lumpkin. 2nd Row: Garrett Croley, Jayden Holt, Sebastian Gonzales, Ty Thomason, Jack Hester, J. Lopez, JT Hebert, Winston Hebert. Back: Coach Susanne Lively, Nolan Craft, Zachery Trotter, Isaac Gonzales, Hannah Holt, Murphy McDermott, Julia Glass, Allison Todd and Coach Amanda Gentry 2. Kaydi Joa Allison Smith gets her driver’s license!! 3. Summer Archery Camp at St. Cyprian’s School. Morning Session Picture: (L-R): Front: Rohan Sohini, Michael Rasmussen, Russell Reid, Bella Alldred, Kylie Ridings, Bryson Zbylot. 2nd Row: Jake Barrett, Reagan Zbylot, Madelynn Zbylot, Michah Douglas, Hannah Slusher, Autumn Greene, Lindsay Murphy, Dylan Murphy, Kristen Robertson. Back Row: Coach Susanne Lively, Avery Durrett, Jake DeVore, Hunter McCall, Lauren Slusher, Austin Green, Andy Durrett, Charlotte Powell, Coach Amanda Gentry. Not pictured: Matthew Denman 4. Abby Crisp, 2, might be our youngest reader! Thanks for supporting The Journey Magazine, Abby! 5. Payton Nance and Christy Hill. 6. 11u Grand Slam National World Series Champions. Panama City Beach, Florida 2012. Coaches: Rip Smith, Scott Green. Front Row Cole Thompson, Carlos Oliophant, Marcos Broom, Evan Pate, Ryan Pate. Back Row: Tanner Green, Luis Rodriquez, Carson Hopper, Jacob Davis, Rowan Arrant, Bailey Smith.

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Send a photo of your child & information to photos@tjmag.com. Submissions are free of charge.

Pediatric Dentistry of East Texas is offering FREE Bleaching Trays!!

Please call for details.

1218 Ellis Avenue • Lufkin, TX • (936) 634-6119 • dentistryforkids.net

YOURCHILD | BIRTHDAY BASH

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livia wants to be a chef when she grows up. She has been a long time fan of the television show, “Cupcake Wars.” She is always in the kitchen cooking, decorating, and wanting to be graded on her presentations. Since Morrison Supply rents out the showroom, Valena, Olivia’s mom, thought it would be the perfect location! Melissa Raley, with Morrison Supply, was a judge and Olivia’s big brother,

62 / The Journey - October 2012

Olivia turns 9!

TJ, was also a judge. Her dad, Aunt Roxann and sister-in-law, Morgan, helped each team. The girls were able to choose the type of cake mix and a huge variety of toppings. Each team had to do a presentation to the judges describing their choices. The left over cupcakes were taken to Olivia’s Great Uncle Roy, who shares her birthday, and to Aunt Glenda Spradley, who live in Pinecrest.

Breathing shouldn’t be a chore.

Secondhand smoke hurts the young, the old and ever yone in between. It’s known to cause lung cancer, emphysema and heart disease. Children can develop asthma and pneumonia. The good news? It’s preventable. Protect yourself and those around you from secondhand smoke. Share the air, not the smoke.

936-634-9308

tjmag.com / 63

YOURCHILD | WHY I LOVE BEING A MOM

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JO CRENSHAW s it the peanut butter on my sandwich or in my hair that I frequent so often? Then… I ponder the question as I peel gum out of my hair with the baby oil I just used to slather the last bit of what I think I might get in the summer sun! Summer is over and School is already in session.

Living with two adventurous young boys, Lawson (6) and Liam (3) proves to have its many challenges (oops) discoveries, in our world!

People ask me all the time, “Don’t they grow up so fast? You turn around and your kids are eighteen.” Well, for me and my husband, we had children a little later in life. Doing so, you are definitely used to managing your own way. Learning to give up your free time, sacrifice that time, and actually enjoying it, IS loving being a mom! I NEVER take for granted the quality time I get to spend with each of my children every day. I love being a mom because I love nurturing their growth and seeing their confidence and creativity.

Watching them grow from sweet baby boys…smiling…crawling…to my “Mess” (oops)...I mean “Amazing” three year old and “Inventive” six year old brings total joy to my world. With my young kids, I love to see them discover something new or figure out how something works (and they like to do that on a daily basis!).

Things sometimes don’t come so easy. Our first child was in and out of the hospital and the Children’s Clinic for the first three years with severe GERD (acid reflux). It humbled me to be taught, life proven of course, that as we watched our child with his reflux and choking, I had to be patient and grateful for the milestones he had overcome.

One of the most endearing reasons I love being a mom is that during this time, I learned that in spite of my being an ICU nurse and educator, God was still in control of every situation. I love being a mom because it humbles me to be taught and reminded every day that God is in control.

So, it isn’t the peanut butter or the gum that ever concerns this ole’ hair…wouldn’t change it for the world. It’s the real quality time, feeling humbled, discovering, nurturing, growing together time that makes why I love being a mom.

And with patience and gratefulness for every single day, I love being a mom, because I am a better version of myself because of my children.

-One wife, mother, professional nurse artist, musician, kind-at-heart yeah, that’s me… Jo Crenshaw

First Day of School

John Ellis (14)- 9th Grade at LHS. Kati & Jacob Ellis (16)- 11th Grade at LHS.

Jansen Harrell, 4 yrs (and little brother, Tripp!)

Laurel Ainsworth- 5th Grade Bonner Elementary, Mrs. Lankford’s Class

Kassidy Brown, 15 yrs

Madison Lumbley, 5 yrs- Kindergarten

Madeline McCollum, 8 yrs- 3rd Grade.

Beth Anne McCollum, 5 yrs- Kindergarten.

Miranda- Kindergarten

Emma McGuire- 4th Grade, Preston McGuire- 1st Grade.

Huntington ISD

Charlotte, 6 yrs- 1st Grade. Caroline, 13 yrs- 8th Grade.

Charlie, 7 yrs- 2nd Grade.

Cooper Knight, 7 yrs

Kenedee Burns