The Minute Magazine March April 2017

March/April 2017 Volume 12, Issue 2

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Life

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Skills, Tips, & Tricks Balance a Budget Shop Smarter Cook a Real Meal Dress to Impress 1

LOCATIONS LOCATIONS ARCADIA (318) 263-8477 ARCADIA LOCATIONS (318) 263-8477 ATHENS (318) 258-3123 ARCADIA ATHENS (318) 263-8477 258-3123 BOSSIER (318) 752-2727 ATHENS BOSSIER (318) 258-3123 752-2727 GIBSLAND (318) 843-6228 BOSSIER GIBSLAND (318) 752-2727 843-6228 HOMER (318) 927-5075 GIBSLAND HOMER 843-6228 (318) 927-5075 MINDEN (318) 371-9910 HOMER MINDEN (318) 927-5075 (318) 371-9910 SHREVEPORT (318) 688-7005 MINDEN SHREVEPORT (318) 371-9910 688-7005 SIBLEY (318) 371-9465 SHREVEPORT SIBLEY (318) 688-7005 371-9465

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Signature-based debit card transactions are transactions where you do not enter your pin to process the transaction. Transactions include online transactions, ‘point of sale’ transactions where you choose credit or ask for the transaction to be processed as a credit or where you sign to authorize the transaction rather than enter your PIN. Only transactions received by GBT as a signature based debit card transaction will qualify © 2016, Gibsland Bank and Trust. All rights reserved. for cash back. Transactions must post to and clear your account during the statement cycle. No cash will be earned on debit card transactions where your PIN is used or any other type of electronic transactions. Cash rewards will be credited to the account the day after the statement drops.

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© 2016, Gibslanddebit Bankcard and transactions Trust. All rights Signature-based arereserved. transactions where you do not enter your pin to process the transaction. Transactions include online transactions, ‘point of sale’ transactions where you choose credit or ask for the transaction to be processed as a credit or where you sign to authorize the transaction rather than enter your PIN. Only transactions received by GBT as a signature based debit card transaction will qualify for cash back. Transactions must post to and clear your account during the statement cycle. No cash will be earned on debit card transactions where your PIN is used or any other type of electronic transactions. Cash rewards will be credited to the account the day after the statement drops. © 2016, Gibsland Bank and Trust. All rights reserved.

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magazine TIFFANY BYRAM

Owner/Publisher/Editor/Graphics/Layout

VICKI CASKEY Sales Manager SHANNON LEWIS Sales Rep FEATURE WRITERS

Leslie Albritton Heather McHorter Bailey Tiffany Byram Beth Fontenot MOCO Sara McDaniel Judith Roberts Lilli Rojas Steven Smith

JENNY REYNOLDS Founder

Office Phone: 504.390.2585 Ad Sales: 318.548.2693 Address: P.O. Box 961, Belle Chasse, LA 70037

7 Put Your Oxygen Mask on First

Melanie Groves & Brian Russell of MoCo

10 Roasted Chicken and Polenta

Heather McHorter Bailey, Social Bites

13 Shop Smarter Beth Fontenot 16 Budgeting Boss Tiffany Byram 20 Home Remedies Leslie Albritton 23 Sharp Dressed Man Steven Smith 24 Think Small Judith Roberts 28 Free Money Sara McDaniel 31 Life of Influence Lilli Rojas

FIND US ONLINE!

For a list of locations near you, or to catch up on past issues, like us on Facebook or visit

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The Minute Magazine is distributed throughout Caddo, Bossier, Claiborne, Bienville, Ouachita, Webster, & Lincoln Parishes in Louisiana. They are FREE for you to enjoy.

Take some to your friends, relatives or anyone else who needs a refreshing, enlightening “minute.�

Copyright 2017. All rights reserved. No part of this magazine may be copied or reproduced without permission. The Minute Magazine cannot be responsible for unsolicited materials.

The editorial content of The Minute is prepared in accordance with the highest standards of journalistic accuracy. Readers are cautioned, however, not to use any information from the magazine as a substitute for expert opinion, technical information or advice. The Minute cannot be responsible for negligent acts, errors and omissions. The opinions expressed in The Minute are those of our writers and do not necessarily reflect the views of the publisher.

The publisher has the right to accept or reject any advertising and / or editorial submitted.

Sara Enloe Winnie Griggs Yvette Hardy Wesley Harris Penny Jones Ashley Maddox Sara McDaniel Jason McReynolds Kathy B. Nelson Rachel Pardue Rosemary Thomas Darla Upton

M

omma Bear Byram here. I've been thinking lately about how to prepare my boys for the day they leave home. I should probably mention that they are ages 3, 2 and new but ask any mother and they will tell you those kids grow up quick as a flash. Any day now they will be off to college and in dire need of "the essentials". I'm not talking about shampoo and toilet paper... I'm referring to those little life skills the world automatically assumes we already know how to do.

Maybe one day our school systems realize knowing how to balance a budget is just as important as memorizing the periodic table. And that teaching little things like making eye contact when you speak to someone and holding the door open can actually be pretty big. We are working on "Please" and "Thank You" at my house so please enjoy this issue of The Minute Magazine and thank you for picking up a copy.

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Simply Southern Cottage written by Sara McDaniel

Watching Dry Bones Come Alive

H

ave you ever had the opportunity to watch dry bones come alive? I’m guessing not physically as Ezekiel witnessed in Chapter 37 of his book, but hopefully you’ve figuratively experienced something dead and dry being brought back to life! If you’ve never been a part of such a story, it’s an AMAZING experience, ESPECIALLY if the Lord allows the dry bones to be yours!

Back in 2009, I was forced to enter my own valley of dry bones. Everywhere where I looked, I saw hopelessness, devastation and no way out. I spent hours on my face crying out before the Lord, begging Him to remove the yoke placed upon me. You see, prior to 2009, my life was storybook (or so I thought).

I had a successful career, my dream home, Caribbean vacations and was married to my college sweetheart. All of the things that *matter* in life, right?! So when I entered the valley of dry bones, I thought my life was over. Everything I knew to be true was suddenly dead and voraciously stripped away.

For years and years, residents of the Minden Historic Residential District watched as the bones of my little cottage became more and more fragile, eventually to the point of drying up with rot and decay. The paint slowly started to chip and peel away. Timbers gave way to elements and the cottage began to crumble from underneath.

Pests invaded the home and took up residency. A slow water leak penetrated the roof and the damage appeared irreversible. The windows seemed to slide from their sills. Another hopeless situation. Another house lost to the elements. More dry bones.

“So I spoke the message as he commanded me, and breath came into their bodies. They all came to life and stood up on their feet.” Ezekiel 37:10 But our Lord has the power to speak LIFE into dry bones! Ezekiel watched dry bones slowly arise from the dust, become covered with muscles and tendons and eventually breathe in oxygen. Over a period of time, the Lord renewed and restored my dry bones

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and led me to a cottage in a similar state.

Both had been abandoned and neglected. Both deteriorated to the point of complete loss. Yet, something interesting gradually unfolded. It didn’t happen overnight. It wasn’t easy. But dry bones once again inhaled the sweet breath of life!

I can’t tell you the exact date it happened for me. But what I can tell you is that each day, I was determined to put one foot in front of the other. Sometimes that meant two steps forward and one step back. But that’s still progress! And slowly but surely, life was breathed into my dry bones. As my story unfolded and new bones were revealed, a glorious restoration story began to take shape!

Isn’t that true of my story also? When a life crisis blindsided me and threatened my very existence, I fell back on the firm foundation laid so strongly by my parents during my formative years--good bones. I was broken much like my old cottage. And like the layers of wallpaper were peeled away from the shiplap, layers of hurt, embarrassment and shame were ripped away to reveal new life in me!

The dry bones of my life AND my cottage are alive! Still lots of work to be done on both, but the journey to full restoration has begun! The glorious unfolding is yet to be revealed. And just as a miracle happened right before the eyes of Ezekiel, life is being breathed, once again, into these dry bones.

And on that cold December day back in 2014, when I found my story personified in a simple, white cottage with dry bones, I knew I had to do everything possible to rescue it. It was a long, arduous process, but in September 2016, the cottage became mine. Its dry bones didn’t scare me in the least and honestly made me want it even more!

It’s been six months since closing, and the restoration work has really ramped up. A few “bones” needed to be repaired.

Some needed to be fully replaced.

The interior demolition revealed layers upon layers of wallpaper nailed on top of beautiful shiplap. Rotted floors and water damaged ceilings have been stripped away. Interestingly enough, as contractors work on the cottage, I keep hearing the words, “It has good bones.

It has good bones.”

Hi there! I’m Sara! Home renovation is my passion.

This columm documents the renovation process of my 1926 Louisiana cottage. Some would have chosen to it tear down, seeing no hope or future for a home in such terrible condition. Not me! I see resilience and charm hidden beneath the rot, decay and neglect. Much like my home, I too have been devastated and broken down. This cottage will personify beauty from the ashes…my ashes. Join me as I reclaim and restore both my life and my home. You can connect with Sara at: SimplySara.com or SimplySouthernCottage.com.

Pu t Y o u r O x y ge n Mask on First

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henever you fly on an airplane, there is one set of instructions that everyone has to hear. They sound like this: "Oxygen and the air pressure are always being monitored. In the event of a decompression, an oxygen mask will automatically appear in front of you. To start the flow of oxygen, pull the mask towards you. Place it firmly over your nose and mouth, secure the elastic band behind your head, and breathe normally. Although the bag does not inflate, oxygen is flowing to the mask. If you are traveling with a child or someone who requires assistance, secure your mask on first, and then assist the other person. Keep your mask on until a uniformed crew member advises you to remove it."

healthier if you are living an unhealthy lifestyle. As Ron Edmondson says, "The healthier you are – physically, emotionally, spiritually, and relationally – the more health you can bring to the team. Just like on the airplane, you can’t help your team if you are having trouble breathing on your own." You have to take care of yourself in order to be able to consistently take care of others.

Did you notice that you are always instructed to secure your mask first?

Throughout this week, remember that we all breathe different psychological oxygen. What helps you "breathe"? What energizes you and gives you "fresh air"?

In today's busy world, this is a great reminder to all of us to continually renew ourselves. If you aren’t taking care of yourself, you can’t continue to live at the level needed to help your team be successful.

You certainly can’t lead a team to be

With your family and with any other area of life, you cannot give what you do not have. Think about it. If your cup is empty, there will be nothing overflowing to share with others. Continually strengthen yourself so you can refresh others. You can't pour from an empty cup!

Use Your Gifts!

Written by Melanie Massey Groves and Brian Russell with MoCo: Leadership, Strengths, and Company Culture Coaching

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a fresh perspective from rosemary's kitchen

written by Rosemary Thomas Things change. People change. Times change.

Attitudes change.

Seasons change.

S

pring has sprung and that makes me Oh. So. Happy. Should I be happy all the time and not let the number on the thermometer dictate my mood? Probably. Perhaps I am not as emotionally evolved as some, but I get cranky in the wintertime. Gray skies and cold weather do not agree with my constitution, so this time of the year I become almost euphoric.

I could wax philosophic about new beginnings and growth and resurrection of the long forgotten, or I could just say that I practically wet my pants with excitement when I see the shoots of a lily that I had forgotten was even there or when I discover new growth on a baby oak tree I planted from an acorn and had long since given up for dead.

I could talk about symbolic metaphors but maybe I should just try to explain the joy I experience when I can walk outside bare-footed. No doubt there are philosophical lessons in all of the traditional symbols of springtime, but for now I am just focused on the simplest of reactions when I smell a sweet olive or hear a tree frog for the first time in many months or really notice the limey-green color of new growth on the maple tree.

Of course… without winter, I doubt I would be squealing with delight at every little sign of spring. So for that, I suppose I should be grateful to winter. And I must admit I did enjoy the fireplace, my fuzzy slippers and hot chocolate during the past several months. I suppose I will miss having soup several nights a week and soaking in the hot tub when it is near freezing outside. However, fuzzy slippers just can’t compete with spring. Radishes are coming on and the other vegetables will be planted in just a few short weeks. I cannot wait for some sautéed snow peas and

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baby Kale. I cannot wait to turn over a spade of dirt and see the wriggling of huge earthworms. I cannot wait for the girls (hens) to start laying again. I love having sweet narcissus and daffodils in every room of the house and I love that it doesn’t get dark at 5:00 in the afternoon and I love fresh lettuce from the garden and the smell of dirt and watching baby birds and hearing frogs and checking on the baby chicks and a thousand other springtime delights.

• 1/3 cup Pignoli (Pine Nuts). Use pine nuts only if you have unlimited financial resources because those suckers are ridiculously expensive. Use walnuts if you are poor like me.

• 3/4 tsp each kosher salt and fresh ground black pepper (not trying to be all fancy-pants here, but fresh ground black pepper as opposed to that fine powder stuff you get in a square can really does make a difference. Throw the can away already. Seriously.)

So, with a begrudging nod to Old Man Winter, I embrace spring with arms wide open and relish all this season has to offer.

OK – Cook your pasta until al dente.

If using more than one type of pasta, cook it separately as they may cook at different rates. Drain it and throw it in a large bowl and toss it with the olive oil.

Cool it to room temperature.

Go Forth - make some fresh spring food and stay outside and listen to the birds.

Be grateful that we live in a part of the world where spring comes so early. Go buy some baby chicks at the co-op (or at least just go and look at them). Plant a pot of herbs. Hang up a bird house.

Take a walk at the park. All too soon we will be complaining about the heat.

Enjoy this most delightful of seasons.

----------------------------------------------------

Pasta, Pesto, and Peas

This is adapted from a recipe by Ina Garten. That gal can cook now.

• 3/4 pound Fusilli Pasta (corkscrew) • 3/4 pound Bow Tie Pasta *Honestly any type of pasta will work • 1/4 cup Olive Oil • 1 1/2 cups Basil Pesto (buy or prepare your own) • Fresh Spinach – about 9 ounces – sauté in a tiny bit of EVOO and chop up. Drain it well. You will end up with about 1 cup of spinach (Or – use 1 10oz package frozen chopped spinach – thaw and squeeze the dickens out of it).

• 3 Tablespoons Fresh Lemon Juice • 1 1/4 cups Mayo (use some good stuff here – not any cheap, low fat stuff) • 1/2 cup Real Parmesan Cheese • 1 1/2 cup Peas (fresh if you can – but otherwise frozen will work just fine – thaw them first)

Puree the pesto, spinach and lemon juice in a food processor. Add the mayo and puree again. Now – mix up this green goodness with your cooled pasta, then stir in the peas, parmesan, nuts and salt and pepper. Serve it at room temperature.

Put some in a big bowl with a slab of hearty crusty bread shoved in the side of the bowl. Grab a fork and a glass of wine and go sit outside. Leave your phone in the house. Say a prayer of gratitude. Listen…. Look around….

Take a deep breathe.

Enjoy Spring.

----------------------------------------------------

Rosemary Thomas is an avid cook and gardener who enjoys the challenge of owning Rosemary's Kitchen in Ruston and working with her daughter.

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Roasted C hicken with C ranberry Re d Wine Demi-Glace and Polenta DIRECTIONS:

Start by making a mixture of olive oil, white wine, balsamic vinegar, salt, pepper, and minced garlic, rosemary, and parsley. Rub the chicken with the mixture, salt and pepper. Bake the chicken at 350 degrees for 1.5 hours, until it's fully cooked.

Then turn oven on broil ( 500 degrees ) for 5-10 to get skin nice and crisp.

Next, boil 8 cups of chicken stock (and/or water), season with salt, then slowly add 2 cups of polenta (stirring constantly). When all of your polenta has been added, reduce the heat, and continue stirring (10-15 minutes) until your polenta has a silky texture, and it has a slight sheen. It will be a thin! It will thicken up over time When the polenta is done, remove it from the heat, stir in butter, and cheese, and season with salt and pepper. Taste the polenta to check the flavor, and add salt, pepper, and cheese as needed.

When you’re chicken is done, allow it to rest for 15 to 20 minutes, and begin your sauce. Strain your pan drippings into a pan, along with reduced chicken stock, red wine, and fresh cranberries and reduce it over high heat. When your sauce is about the right consistency and the cranberries have opened up, add a bit of balsamic vinegar and honey, then reduce the heat, add a bit of butter, and stir it until it’s fully incorporated. Season with salt and pepper. It’s also important to taste repeatedly at this stage, because this is where you’ll get your seasoning right (add salt, pepper, and lemon juice as needed).

Serve your chicken over your polenta, spoon on your sauce, add some chopped basil, and enjoy.

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INGREDIENTS: • 4 Chicken Quarters • Garlic • Lemon • Flour (optional) • Basil

POLENTA

• 2 cups Polenta • 8 cups Chicken Stock or Water • 1/2 cup Asiago Cheese (Soft or Grated Mozzarella, etc) • 1/2 cup Parmesan Cheese • 2 Tbsp Butter

MARINADE

• 2 Tbsp Olive Oil • 2 Tbsp White Wine • 1 Tbsp Balsamic Vinegar • 2 Cloves Minced Garlic • 2 Sprigs Minced Rosemary • 1/4 cup Chopped Parsley

SAUCE

• 2 cups of Reduced Chicken Stock (this should be highly reduced, and it’s best to start with 6 or more cups of regular stock, then reduce it down to 2) • 1/2 cup of Red Wine • 1/2 Tbsp Balsamic Vinegar • 2 Tbsp Butter • 1 cup Fresh Cranberries • 1/4 cup Honey

RECIPES PRESENTED BY

Heather McHorter Bailey OWNER OF SOCIAL BITES OF RUSTON

Pa n Seared As paragus INGREDIENTS:

• 20 Whole Asparagus Spears • 1 Tbsp Butter • 1 Clove Garlic, Minced

DIRECTIONS

In a skillet, melt butter and add the garlic. Drop in asparagus spears and saute the spears for approximately 10 minutes, turning them with tongs so that all the sides get coated with the butter/garlic. The asparagus is done when it starts to brown slightly and is still firm. The garlic will also start browning. Remove from heat, dish up and serve.

P ea r , Pecan , Feta & C r a n berry S al a d INGREDIENTS:

FOR THE DRESSING • 2 tsp Dijon Mustard • 1/4 cup Apple Cider Vinegar • 1/4 cup Pure Maple Syrup • 1/4 cup Extra-virgin Olive Oil • 1 Small Shallot, Finely Diced (or Substitute Red Onion) FOR THE CANDIED NUT TOPPING • 1/2 cup Walnuts or Pecans, Roughly Chopped • 2 Tbsp Granulated Sugar • 1 Tbsp Butter FOR THE SALAD • 2 cups Arugula • 2 cups Spinach • 1/2 Medium Red Onion, Sliced Thinly • 2 Bosc Pears, Sliced Thinly • 1/2 cup Dried Cranberries • 1/2 cup Crumbled Feta Cheese

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DIRECTIONS

• FOR THE DRESSING • Using a mason jar or container with lid, add all ingredients and shake. Easiest method!

• Alternatively you can combine all ingredients except the shallot and olive oil in bowl and whisk well to combine. Slowly drizzle in olive oil to emulsify. Add in shallot and stir.

• FOR THE CANDIED WALNUTS • Place butter, nuts and sugar in a skillet over medium heat, stirring constantly until the sugar dissolves into a light brown liquid and coats the walnuts/ pecans . Remove them from skillet, and spread them out on a sheet of aluminum foil to cool.

• TO ASSEMBLE THE SALAD • In large bowl, add the arugula,spinach and toss.

• Divide among plates and layer 4 slices of pear over each and a few red onion slices. Sprinkle 1 tablespoon (each) of walnuts/pecans and dried cranberries over each salad and some crumbled feta cheese. Drizzle with dressing.

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blissful chaos written by Yvette Hardy

What Every Southern Momma Teaches their Young

T

here are a few things in life that everyone should know. There are also a few things that we Southern mommas like to make sure to pass down to our babes. Unfortunately, the majority of these really important things are NOT taught in school. Also unfortunate is the fact that some of these things could be classified as “common sense” and well, common sense isn’t so common anymore! So here is a feeble attempt to touch on some things that, I for one, think we all should learn!

Good Manners…. Oh my! I could go on forever on this one! Here in the south, we pride ourselves on good manners.

And we still believe in the importance of saying “yes ma’am and no sir”. I believe there are some states that tend to think this is not rude. We do. Please…when in Rome….

In addition, calling older people by their first names with NO MR. OR MRS. preceding! Really? My momma would turn over in her grave!! Then there is the thing about getting up to give someone older your seat. CHILDREN, PLEASE GET YOUR HEAD OUT OF YOUR VIDEO GAME, SNAP-CHAT, SOCIAL MEDIA AND GET UP FOR AN ADULT TO SIT!!! Oh, I’m sorry. Am I speaking loudly? Forgive me. It could be a little soap box of mine!

Say thank-you when someone holds the door open for you. Hold the door open for others. Write thank-you notes.

A few more little gems to live by… Don’t take what isn’t yours. If the clerk gives you too much money back, return it.

She will probably have to pay it back to balance her register. Play fair. Treat others how you want to be treated.

Especially the waitress!

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How to make a Roux….Well, every good southern cook knows how to make a roux. You start with a black iron skillet or dutch oven, heat your oil (approximately 3/4 to 1 cup), add your flour (approximately 1 to 1 1/2 cups) and whisk until blended well and the color and consistency you desire.

Some people prefer a light caramel colored roux and some like darker.

This is NOT the time to walk away from your concoction. Continue stirring. You MUST NOT LET THE ROUX BURN. And it will! If it does, throw it out and start over. There is no remedy for burnt roux! At this point, if making a great southern dish, like gumbo, or crawfish etoufee or shrimp creole, you would add your Trinity…which brings me to my next point….

What is the Trinity….well, we probably all know in the Spiritual realm it means the Father, the Son, and the Holy Spirit.

But in the South we speak of the trinity in terms of onions, bell peppers, and celery. It's the stuff that goes in most southern dishes! Can I get a Hallellujah?

Another thing in the south that we tend to take for granted is our manner of speaking without really saying what we mean. To us our language is crystal clear, but to some who may not have grown up around it, there could be some confusion. We like to mask our true feelings about someone with phrases that seem, well, a bit nicer. For example, when we say “bless her heart”

what we probably meant is “poor thing, she’s dumb as a doornail, but she sure is pretty”. It usually nullifies some insult or cruelty. However, it can actually be meant as sympathy felt for someone.

Like, “bless her heart, she just lost her grandma”, meaning, “poor girl, this is going to be hard on her”.

Then there are others like “she’s not fat, just big-boned” (she’s a big ole girl, probably big parents), “running around like a chicken with its head cut off” or “busy as a cat on a hot tin roof” (busy). To speak of laziness we would say “wouldn’t hit a lick at a snake,” or “going around by Aunt Laura’s house” means taking your time to get there, as in telling a story. Someone that may have demonstrated some foolish actions may be characterized as “if his brains were gasoline, it wouldn’t be enough to prime a piss-ant’s motorscooter” or “his butters done slid off his biscuit”. “Can’t make a silk purse out of a sow’s ear” meaning, you are what you are, don’t try to be more than that!

“Madder than an old wet hen” (oh, she mad).

Unfortunately, I’m outta space and time and can’t go on…but oh how I’d love to.

Hopefully, this issue will be enlightening to some, funny for others and a good laugh to us all! And bless your heart for reading it!

----------------------------------------------------

Yvette is a mom to 3 brown-eyed beauties, a wife to a hard-working "Louisiana oil-man," a sister to two crazy gals, an aunt to many, and a child of the One True King.

These are just some of the titles she holds humbly, and near & dear to her heart. She's still chasing a few dreams (even at her age), and trying to live intentionally! Yvette is a lover of all things old, southern hospitality, a gypsy at heart and happy in boots or heels! She is a nurse and the owner of Fashion on the Fly online boutique with a mobile fashion truck on the way.

SHOP SMARTER

F O R YO U R G R O C E R I E S Written by Beth Fontenot, MS, RD, LDN

Rule 4: Full Belly

D

o you find yourself making a trip to the grocery store every day for something? Do you wander aimlessly through the store just throwing whatever appeals to you in your cart? Do you run in to get one thing and come out with bags of groceries? If so, you need a lesson in savvy grocery shopping, and I’m here to help.

To do a better job of buying groceries, there are a few fundamental rules you need to follow. Not only will they save you money, but you will eat healthier, too.

Don’t shop for groceries when you’re hungry or you’ll find yourself tossing things in your cart that you wouldn’t buy if your stomach wasn’t dictating your choices. If necessary, eat a small snack before shopping for food.

Shopping with a rumbling tummy not only affects how much you buy, but it affects the type of foods you purchase.

It’s only when you get home and unload your purchases that you realize the unhealthy choices you made. Then you and your family are stuck eating those unhealthy purchases, which makes the impact of shopping while hungry more significant than the immediate higher cost at the register.

Rule 5: Resist Temptation

Rule 1: Food Pyramid

Rule #5 - Limit yourself to one trip to the grocery store each week. Yes. One! Every time you go to the store for just one or two items, it’s highly likely that you will walk out with goodies you just couldn’t resist. To help reduce the number of trips to the store, keep the grocery list in a place where family members can add items they need.

Let it be known that there will be only one trip to the store each week.

Rule 2: Have a Plan

Grocery stores are designed to tempt you to buy things you don’t need, so the more trips you make to the store (and through the store), the more money you are likely to spend. Studies show that after 30 minutes, every additional minute costs you one dollar.

Familiarize yourself with the Dietary Guidelines for Americans so you know what should be on your shopping list. In a nutshell, fruits, vegetables, whole grains, lean meats, nuts, dried beans and peas, and dairy foods should be staples on your list. In other words, choose “real” food over the stuff that comes in packages and boxes.

Decide what you are going to eat for the week, make a list, and stick to it. Organize your list by the aisles of the store where you shop. This will keep you from backtracking through the store when you forget something, increasing the likelihood that you will pick up items that aren’t on your list. You might even want to develop a master list to use every time you shop.

There are no exceptions to your list unless you legitimately forgot a needed item. A shopping list can get you in and out of the grocery store more quickly, save you money, eliminate food waste, and help you stick to a healthy eating plan. And once you’ve made your list, don’t take off to the store without it.

Rule 3: Perimeter

Spend most of your time in the perimeter of the store.

This is where the lower-calorie, fresh foods like fruits, vegetables, dairy, meat, eggs, and fish are typically placed. Try to avoid the center aisles as much as possible since processed and junk foods tend to lurk there. Not only are many of these foods high in sugar, fat, and salt, but their convenience adds to your final tab when you check out.

The center aisles of the store aren’t completely without merit though. Look for breakfast cereals made from whole grains and contain at least four grams of fiber per serving. Choose low-sodium versions of canned foods.

Toss a bag of dry beans in your cart for a cheap, highly nutritious meal. Pick up some unsalted nuts for snacks.

Choose whole grain crackers and pasta. Try to cruise on past all those conveniently boxed or frozen dinners.

Thinking ahead, planning menus, and making lists all take time – time that everyone is short on. But it’s time well spent when it comes to saving money and protecting your and your family’s health.

If you need help getting started, look for free downloadable menu planning and grocery list templates on the Internet or create one for yourself that fits your lifestyle.

-------------------------------------------------------------------------Beth Fontenot is a registered and licensed dietitian/ nutritionist who divides her time between the swamps of south Louisiana and the piney woods of north Louisiana. Though she’s been known to indulge in a certain Texas brand of ice cream or a fried seafood dinner, she does believe that good nutrition is the foundation of a healthy lifestyle.

Recommended App:

Keep forgetting your grocery list? Use this handy app and you'll never leave it behind again. It's the best way to create and share a grocery shopping list and organize your recipes.

13

strangers at my

coffeepot

written by Darla Upton

The Great Knuckle Draggers Divide

I

used to think laundry would be the thing that would one day divide us.

The ability to fold a fitted sheet, iron a shirt and hang clothes fresh from the dryer would be the equivalent of having a thumb.

When I learned people were out there getting dressed out of a hamper because folding and hanging was just too much, I believed laundry would be the evolutionary divide.

That was before I heard how ya'll were out there getting dinner ready.

Now I realize it won't be laundry, but meal planning, that will have some of us moving forward while others stay behind. The cave men either knuckle dragged or they stood upright and walked. Meal planning has some of you looking like knuckle draggers.

I have a friend that has three kids. Each kid at a different campus; each kid in a different after school activity. She works full time; so does her husband.

She also lives in the country. So, after school, instead of driving back and forth, she would hang out at my house waiting to pick up this kid from that activity and waiting on another. One night as she was leaving with one to pick up another I asked her what they were having for dinner. She shrugged and said they'd probably have cereal.

My first thought was possibly the kids were having some awful, kid, frozen nuggets and rather than eat kid food she was opting for cereal. Seeing my confusion she explained, "It is too late to run to the store on the way home. I just need to pick up the last one and get them home."

Perfectly understandable. Happens to all of us. Haven't been shopping and

14

ain't got two things in the pantry that go together! We've all been there. It can't always be gourmet; sometimes you just have to feed them. Cereal counts as feeding them.

But it wasn't a week after that my friend was leaving my house again and stated they had to go pick up dinner on the way home. Thinking she was referring to a restaurant pick up, I asked what she was going to get, expecting to hear goodies from a local eatery. Instead she said, "I don't know yet. We'll figure it out when we get to Brookshire's."

My wrinkled brow had her adding, "I don't really plan meals like you," as her daughter interjected the sordid details that they go to the store almost every night for dinner.

I couldn't believe it, "Did you have a mama? Does she know this is how you get dinner taken care of? What is the phone number for your closest aunt?"

She laughed but explained I was just as mind boggling to her. Like, working from home and having only one child came with a dry erase board for menu making and a free grocery store list making app.

The following week during one of our visits while waiting on a kid, I tried to depart some wisdom to her and explain the crockpot was a great way to have a meal waiting. Come to find out she was aware of the crockpot. In some colorful language she wondered if I

was aware of how impossible it would be to get a crockpot ready while also getting dogs out, kids up, husband out, and herself ready for work. She did not want to hear my suggestion of getting up just a tad earlier to make meal prep happen. In fact, she again used some pretty colorful language to explain to me getting up any earlier was not an option.

I know you've heard some people just do things different and no one way to do something is the right way. Well, someone told you that to make you feel better about the messed up way you were doing something.

Many times I showed her recipes, websites and apps to help her. I knew she wasn't listening to a single word.

I'd tell her boxed dinners and nightly grocery runs caused higher food bills, higher sodium and sugar intake, and higher anxiety in friends witnessing it.

She didn't care.

Apparently, a great many of you don't care. You're just too busy to plan a menu, buy groceries or do laundry correctly. Knuckle draggers. All of you. I bet you don't even try to fold a fitted sheet. No menu, nothing in your pantry and a wadded up sheet in your linen closet. Ya'll don't deserve those thumbs you have. I hope ya'll learn something in this issue. I don't want to see ya'll not make it. I'm rooting for you to stand upright!

--------------------------------------------------

Darla lives in Jefferson, Texas, where she raises her son, Atticus Gregory, with her significant other, Hugh Lewis II. She lived a decade in NC and a short time in Houston.

Eventually she returned to her hometown of Texarkana, where she met Hugh while working at the Texarkana Gazette. When they met, Hugh was also the owner of the McKay House Bed & Breakfast. After 10 years in the B&B business they quit. Now, they live in a historic downtown building with a yorkie, a great dane puppy, two cats and a tween son. And vodka and a typewriter. darlam8472@yahoo.com

facebook.com/ visitjeffersontexas

903-665-3733

Stressed O ut?

N

eed a Brea k?

get back on

Track

with a wee kend in

Jefferson

Upcoming Events 6th Annual Route 49 Rally & BBQ Cook-Off March 17th-18th History, Haunts & Legends Spring Event April 1st Outlaws National Classic Car Show April 14th-16th AHRMA International Vintage Motocross April 20th-23rd

www.visitjeffersontexas.com

15

Written by

Tiffany Byram

Show Your

Money

Who's Boss A budget is telling your money where to go instead of wondering where it went.

Building A Personal Budget

Dave Ramsey

Sample Budget Breakdown AUTO & TRANSPORT AUTO INSURANCE AUTO PAYMENT GAS

BILLS & UTILITIES

MOBILE PHONE TV / INTERNET UTILITIES / INSURANCES

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MORTGAGE/RENT SAVINGS SHOPPING

CLOTHING HOBBIES HOME DECOR MISC. SHOPPING

HEALTH & FITNESS GYM PHARMACY DOCTOR HAIR

KIDS STUFF

SUPPLIES / ACTIVITIES DAYCARE / BABYSITTING

ENTERTAINMENT FOOD & DINING DINING OUT GROCERIES

GIFTS & DONATIONS

GIFTS / PARTY SUPPLIES TITHES

Y

Grow Your Savings

our path to financial freedom starts here. Creating a personal budget is one of the first steps to getting your finances in order. Once you have developed a budget you can watch where your money is going. And you can control it. This is important if you want to grow your wealth and invest in your future through savings and retirement plans.

Spending more than you make is a surefire way to wreck your budget, your credit, and your life. Sometimes we do it on purpose. Other times we do it simply because we don't pay attention to where our money is going. Let's fix that.

FIND YOUR MOTIVATION

Christmas, New Car, Buying a Home, Vacation, Kid's College Fund. Maybe you want to build an emergency cushion for unexpected expenses or job loss. Having a goal makes it easier to hold on to your hard earned money because you can see a tangible reward. If a new car is the target, cutting back on all those impulse buys might get easier.

WHAT'S YOUR INCOME?

Include all of the ways you consistently make money. Take the total amount earned and subtract any taxes that must be paid. You now have your total monthly income.

WHAT DO YOU SPEND?

Where does your money go? List EVERYTHING. Categorizing can help you get organized but you must account for every penny spent. If this task seems overwhelming we have a technology tip: Download an app called Mint. It links all of your bank account and credit cards to one easily managed system. Mint can automatically categorize transactions for you.

GET OUT OF DEBT

Pay debt first and then transition your money over to savings. It doesn't make sense to have savings when you're paying a high interest rate on a long standing credit card bill.

WHAT'S FIXED

SAVINGS ACCOUNT

Review your list of expenses and break them down into the areas you can and can't live without. Monthly commitments like food, rent, insurance, utilities, phone, internet, etc. would fall into this category. After you name all of your fixed expenses, add them together to get your total monthly fixed expense budget.

You need to separate your savings from your checking so that there is no chance you will unintentionally spend it. Look for an interestbearing savings account to make a little bit extra.

BREAK IT DOWN

MOMENT OF TRUTH

For each savings goal (Christmas, Car) figure out how much you will budget each month. For example: If you want to save $1,200 for Christmas you will need to put away $100 a month. Keep a running excel sheet of your monthly savings deposit with a breakdown of exactly how much money goes to each savings goal.

Income minus fixed expenses equals flexible spending. If you have $0 or a negative number you are living above your means. You will need to reduce your expenses or increase your income. Got money left? Way to go!

FLEXIBLE EXPENSES

Go back through your original spending list and look for expenditures you can live without. It's also important to pay attention to the small transactions. $15 here and there doesn't seem like a budget buster but having multiple blips in your account activity can really put a dent into staying within your means.

We Recommend:

WATCH YOUR MONEY

The point of building a budget is to pay watch where your money is going. It's not a one and done concept. But it will get easier. You're in this for the long haul. Now let's move on to savings.

Beware of little expenses; a small leak will sink a great ship.

Benjamin Franklin

17

ice cream & other things that should be discussed

written by Ashley Maddox

So Your Doctor Ordered an Imaging Exam

I

work at a hospital as a radiologic technologist. I perform xray and CT (CAT scan) examinations for outpatients, inpatients, and patients from the Emergency Room. These exams can be stressful for patients. It is my job to help to alleviate some of that stress. I thought I would share some tips for everyone to help make your imaging exams more enjoyable.

1. Be Informed!

What does this mean? This means when I ask you why you are having your exam you don’t say “I don’t know.

My doctor ordered it.” This is always the wrong answer. It is your doctor’s responsibility to explain why they are ordering any test and to answer any questions you may have about the test. If they don’t want to answer your questions you may need a new doctor.

I usually know why you are having the test because I have your doctor’s order and they have put a diagnosis.

However, all doctors are human and they do make mistakes. Doctors see many patients every day and while technology has made it easier to document patient interactions it has not completely eliminated mistakes.

I may have an order for a right foot xray but you have pain in your left hand. Mistakes happen and you need to be sure exactly what exam you are supposed to have done.

You should also feel free to ask your imaging technologist any questions you may have. It is our job to explain your exam to you and address all of your concerns. While I can do a CT scan of your brain in less than 3 minutes, I don’t mind answering questions about the test for 10 or 15. Patients have the right to have all of their questions answered and concerns addressed.

18

Once you have all the information, you can refuse to have an imaging exam!

What?!?!?! That’s right. Write that down.

Whether you are at your doctor’s office, in the hospital, or in the emergency room you can refuse a test. If at any time a patient believes that they should not have a test they can refuse to have that test. Sometimes doctors order imaging exams that a patient may feel is not necessary. You can always refuse at any point. I have had patients decide while in the radiology department that they don’t want their test done and that’s okay. It’s always the patient’s decision.

2. Please Listen!

A lot of my job involves having people take their clothes off. Yep, we spend a lot of time having people get almost naked. It is a time consuming process because for some reason, patients don’t like having a complete stranger tell them to take their pants, shirt, bra, etc off. However, there is a reason.

Metal can cause artifacts on our images that result in us having to repeat an exam because the radiologist (doctor who reads imaging exams) can’t see everything they need to see.

It’s funny though because even though people don’t like taking their clothes off, 9 out of 10 times they take off more than they need to or expose more than they should. For example: I asked a patient to remove everything from the waist up including her shirt, bra, and

necklace and to put the gown on with the opening to the back. The patient walked out of the dressing room with the gown on correctly but her pants off and her bra still on. I asked her why she took her pants off. She said “You told me to take everything off.” Nope, nope, nope. Another patients was covered from the waist down with a sheet and asked to pull their jeans down to their knees and keep their underwear up.

Everything came down. Sigh.

Don’t get me wrong. I’ve seen everything at some point and nothing fazes or offends me but for your own dignity, please listen to changing instructions because I don’t want to see more than I need to. No matter how cute you are.

3. Please leave your attitude/anger at home Believe it or not, sometimes patients come to the radiology department angry. The issue may be because their doctor ordered a test last minute, there was an issue with the patient’s insurance, or maybe you’re just having a bad day. I understand but it’s still not my fault. I am going to do everything to get you in and out as quick as I can but I can’t control what else has happened to you. Remember, I’m probably going to make you take your clothes off so you may not want to make me mad.

----------------------------------------------------

Ashley is originally from North Louisiana but now resides in New Orleans, Louisiana. Her experiences growing up in the country and being transplanted to the big city give her a unique perspective into life's quirks and hilarities. She is active in the New Orleans lifestyle and she has a great group of friends from which to draw her inspiration. She is a member of the Krewe of Nyx, attends numerous Mardi Gras Balls, runs, and enjoys reading and ice cream. She is married to her loving husband Jerry (who may or may not have written this bio).

headlines & hemlines written by Rachel Pardue

How to Plan a Vacation Worth Rembering

A

t times when I was planning spring break, I felt like I was back in highschool at prom where we changed outfits for pictures, went to dinner an hour away, pictures again, and then promptly spent one hour at the dance in expensive dresses that not one of us has touched since.

Nothing about prom is practical. I went for the experience, for the right of passage, for the moment when I looked around the cheesy limo all my friends insisted on renting and caught myself smiling because I realized I wanted to remember how I felt at that moment in time before it was gone forever.

When planning your next vacation why not make it a trip that’ll be worth remembering? That way when you're 90 and left to preoccupy your time you'll have memories of more than just a run of the mill beach resort stay.

In this spirit, I rallied my most adventurous friends and we decided to hike Machhu Piccu. We will be hiking the trail the Inca’s created in the 1400’s.

This four day three night trek through and up the Andes Mountains will take us to lost ancient civilizations that can only be reached after days of travel on foot.

This kind of vacation can’t be booked through a travel agent and requires a lot of independent research and gutfollowing. Here’s how to do it:

Rally the troops:

I firmly believe that travelling either brings out the best or the worst in a person. On an adventurous vacation that requires risk-taking, thinking on your toes, and running on minimum hours of sleep, only invite the people who will keep the overall energy of the group up and positive. No matter how amazing of a vacation you have planned, no one can enjoy it while Joe

keeps griping and googling directions to the closest Mc Donalds.

Do your research:

Spontaneity is amazing until you land in a foreign country with no transportation from the airport in the middle of a slum where you keep seeing billboards advertising to be aware of a disease that you’re pretty sure you forgot to get the vaccination for. To clarify, it is completely okay to go to countries that have slums and diseases (believe it or not America has these things too), but just as you wouldn’t walk through the ninth ward alone at night, you need to be aware of your surroundings wherever you decide to travel.

Make lists not iteneraries:

In the type of travel where the goal is to experience a new culture and an entirely new side of yourself, you can’t be on a minute by minute schedule. Make a list of places you have to see before you leave but then let the day happen naturally and be open to changes when the opportunity presents itself. Also know the difference between a tourist trap and just an amazing landmark of the country. A tourist trap is a false representation of a country’s culture or way of life that charges gringos three times more for an inauthentic experience (think Epcot). However, I’ve lived in Boston for two years now and I would still walk the Freedom Trail anyday. Many locals havent done it because its “too touristy” but standing in the untouched places where our nation’s independence was formed through acts of faith and rebellion is

amazing, and if you skip that, you’re just crazy.

Take vidoes:

On my last trip to Costa Rica, I exchanged my camera for a go pro.

Because it’s waterproof and has many mounting options, I have video of me and my childhood bestfriend swimming to the base of a waterfall after riding horseback through the rainforest. I have footage of ziplining across an active volcano. More importantly, however, I have video of my mom and dad smiling and laughing to each other after my moms fish fell off the hook when we were deep sea fishing. I have a video of my big brother swimming underwater with a school of fish and popping his head above water grinning at me from ear to ear like we were 8 years old again.

I have video of my family hugging and waving goodbye on the last night of the trip that once again made me incredibly grateful to be blessed with these people and this life. After editing all of the video clips into one cohesive video to a song that perfectly fit the mood of our trip, I can watch it when I’m alone and snowed in my apartment and for those two minutes and thirty seconds I’m back with my family in paradise.

Just remember to experience your trip through your eyes and not the eye of the lens.

And if all of this sounds awful, book that resort on the beach. Who doesn't love some sunshine and a margarita.

Watch my Costa Rica video on facebook @RachelMariePardue

Rachel Pardue is a recent graduate of Cedar Creek School in Ruston, LA. Rachel is an aspiring entrepreneur who is studying business at Babson College outside of Boston, MA. Babson is ranked as the #1 School for Entrepreneurship in the nation, and Rachel is attending as a Center for Women’s Entrepreneurial Leadership Scholar.

19

Home

Remedies & Hacks

H

ere are a few of my favorite old fashioned home remedies and hacks. Some of them I am sure are “old wives tales”; although modern science has proved many of these to have a legitimate scientific evidence for being effective. These tips have been gleaned from a variety of sources, but mostly from childhood memories of my mother and grandmother, the first doctors seen before going to a real M.D.

H e alth Tips & Tric ks •

The amazing aloe vera plant is Mother Nature’s first aid kit. The gel inside the leaves contain an array of healing properties. Burns, sunburns, minor cuts, psoriasis and other skin conditions can all be treated by chopping off a nice, thick stalk and squeezing the gel directly onto affected area. The slimly substance contains vitamins and is an antibacterial that accelerates the healing process.

•

Beat insomnia by eating a hand full of cherries or drinking a cup of tart cherry juice before bedtime.

Cherries are jam-packed with melatonin, the same hormone created by the body to regulate sleep.

20

Wr it te n by Le sl ie A l br it t on

•

Revive tired and puffy eyes with a black tea bag. Dip the bag in a cup of hot water for several minutes then use the bag as an eye compress. Black tea has astringent elements that can help deflate and tighten under eye bags.

Wac ky H ac ks •

Place a bar of soap between the bottom sheet and mattress pad to prevent restless leg syndrome.

•

Cut any type of potato in half and rub the cut side under armpits to stop excessive perspiration.

•

To repel mosquitoes sit in a tub full of vinegar before venturing out. Mosquitoes will not be the only thing you’ll be repelling.

•

Wear a bracelet made of copper for mild relief of arthritis.

•

Placing a pencil between your teeth is said to stop tension headaches.

•

Remove a wart by placing a piece of duct tape on the wart and leaving it on for five days.

K i tchen Kna cks

•

A teaspoon of sugar swallowed dry can stop hiccups in minutes.

•

The freshness of eggs can be tested by placing them in a large bowl of cold water, if they float do not use them.

•

To treat ringworms apply castor oil twice a day to infected area.

•

Easily remove eggshells from hard-boiled eggs by quickly rinsing the eggs in cold water after they are boiled.

•

Pungent body odor can be treated by talking a bath in vodka laden water to rid odorous smells.

•

A few drops of lemon juice added to simmering rice will keep the grains separated.

•

•

When baking bread, a small dish of water in the oven will keep the crust from getting too hard or brown.

Here's a good one to end on: Dropping a few drops of urine (yes, you read that right) into your ear can cure an earache. If you do try this you should probably reread the previous tip.

•

To avoid teary eyes when cutting onions, cut them under cold running water or briefly place them in the freezer before cutting.

•

Instant potatoes help thicken soups and stews.

•

Control greasy cabinets by mixing two tablespoons of Dawn dish soap with two cups of warm water and wipe down.

•

Gum tangled hair can be combed through with ease by simply spraying the gummed-up hair with WD-40.

•

Treat a fever blister by soaking a cotton ball in cold whole milk and apply directly on blister. Whole milk contains calcium and immunoglobulins, which helps fight the virus that causes fever blisters.

•

To soothe a sore throat, gargle twice a day with pressed garlic mixed with one glass of warm water. Fresh garlic juice contains antimicrobial properties that fight pain causing bacteria.

•

Relieve the itchiness of poison ivy by soaking in a bath tub filled with warm water and one cup of baking soda. Baking soda has a soothing effect due to its anti-inflammatory properties.

Hopefully some of these tips will be of use to you, or maybe you got a chuckle or two from reading the more bizarre ones.

Just remember, if all else fails, there is always the tried and true life’s problem solvers of WD-40 and duct tape. If it doesn’t move and should, use the WD-40. If it shouldn’t move and does, use the duct tape.

---------------------------------------------------------------------------------Leslie Albritton is a simple girl living in a country world.

She is married to Brent and lives on a small farm in Farmerville with their daughter Nicole. They raise mini donkeys, mini horses and mini goats, hence the "small" farm. A runner, biker and kayaker she enjoys all things outdoors, especially the furry and four legged kind.

21

the journey written by Jason McReynolds

The #1 Life Hack

I

love to watch Youtube videos that show you how to make life easier.

There’s a Russian guy (I don’t think he’s really Russian) that will show you how to get Cheetos from a bag without getting the orange stuff all over the back of your hands. I have 3 kids. This is handy. There’s a video that gives 6 life hacks with straws but they’re really just arts and crafts tips. We’re big watermelon people in my house so we love the “how-to-easily-cut-watermelon” hacks, although they seem to take 4x longer when I try them. You can find almost anything online now. I repair my own vehicles simply because someone online has showed me that it’s possible to do it myself! Those have saved me a TON of money.

There are a lot of other important life skills out there. I had some really great ideas for this article. These were the ones that were vetoed by my wife and editor. They’re such girls... literally.

“5 ways to Eliminate Someone Using Just Your Thumb.” I came close to begging to write this one. It would have been awesome! "How to Field Dress a Kangaroo.” They look cuddly but they have the claws of velociraptors! “How to Survive in the Woods Alone for 3 Days Without Anything but a Knife.”

Probably more suited for an alpha-male magazine. If you’d like to see any of those articles in the future please email the magazine and I can do my I told you so dance. Sooooo, I’m left with the only one that couldn’t possibly get vetoed. But you’re in luck because it’s the one life hack that destroys all other life hacks. This life skill is the only one that really matters. What is it, you ask?

Go to my website, pay $19.99, and find out! I’m just kidding.

22

Matthew 6:33 is one of my favorite verses in the bible. “But seek first his kingdom and his righteousness, and all these things will be given to you as well.” The paragraph that this verse is in is talking about worry and anxiety.

How will we eat? How will we have money for clothes? For me, I primarily worry about finances. My wife worries about our children’s health. These are all common worries. But verse 33 tells us the best life skill of all. The life skill of seeking God extends beyond this life to our eternal life. That’s why it beats all other life skills. If we go after God, He will take care of us. In fact, if we go after God we don’t have to do anything else! Now, I’m not saying we quit our job and move to Belize. Jesus isn’t saying that we don’t have to put forth effort. God tells us we need to work. But when we spend time with our Heavenly Father and obey Him in our efforts, we’ll never have to worry about anything ever again because He’ll take care of us no matter what.

I realize this sounds like pie-in-the-sky thinking but what does God not have control over? I’ll wait….. Can’t come up with anything can you? Ok, so if Jesus says God will take care of you when you are seeking after Him what should we do? Seek after Him. He’ll take care of everything else.

Around the college and professional ranks of football there has been a mantra that has emerged in the last

decade – “Do Your Job”. It’s on banners in practice facilities. It’s on stickers in the back of lockers. It’s everywhere. It sounds simple but a football player’s job is actually complex. Each play involves multiple tasks and actions and they are expected to perform these duties with flawlessness to help advance the team.

As a follower of Christ we have it so much easier. We have one job. ONE! We are to go after Jesus hard. We are to spend more time with Him than with our tv. We are to know Him deeper each day. If Jesus was beaten, whipped, nailed to a cross, and stabbed with a spear on the day of His crucifixion (just so I can be with Him forever by the way), I think I can spend a little more time getting to know Him better and trying to understand the depth of His love.

Giving your life over to Jesus is the life hack that opens up your eternity to Heaven. It’s the most important life skill because you’ll know who He is before you actually see Him face-to-face. No fake Russian Youtuber is going to tell you this but it’s true. Focus on Jesus and He’ll take care of everything else, even those guys that you might want to eliminate with your thumbs... did I mention that I really want to write that article?

----------------------------------------------------

Jason McReynolds is the pastor of New Orleans Community Church.

He and his wife, Liev, have two boys and one little girl. Jason enjoys hanging out with his family and friends, watching and/ or playing any kind of sports, and taking his wife out on dates. To learn more about him, or NOCC, visit: www.neworleanscommunitychurch.com

Sharp Dressed Man

Written by Steven Smith We’ve all heard the phrase “You will never get a second chance to make a first impression”. As cliché as that saying is, it still rings true.

Psychologists say that it takes only one-tenth of a second to make a judgement about someone based on our first impression of them. Although over time you can change your impression of someone based on additional information you receive about their personality or character, the first impression is still a very important factor when it comes to how we perceive other people.

As far as first impressions go, the way we dress can be the easiest way to give a good first impression, yet for some reason, some people, men especially, seem to care less about the way they dress.

Now, this is the point where I could put millennials or hipsters on blast for not dressing well or wearing nothing but joggers and tank tops, like most people would do. But seeing as I myself am a millennial, and admittingly a bit biased, I’m not going to do that. I think that this is a cross-generational issue that effects men of all ages. Just take a visit to the closest Walmart or mall and you’ll know what I’m talking about.

So why is dressing well so important? Does being a sloppy dresser versus being a sharp dresser really have an effect? Psychologists say yes. Multiple studies show that people who dress nicer are seen as “more confident, successful, flexible, and a higher earner.” And it’s not just other people; the clothes we wear also affect our self-image.

Dressing well can make us more confident and improve our self-esteem. One study even found that wearing a Superman shirt increased people’s perception about the amount of weight they could lift and wearing a white lab coat could increase a person’s mental agility.

The problem, I think, is most guys think that dressing well is out of their reach. They think, “I don’t have enough money to dress nice,” or “If I dress up people will think I’m stuck up or snooty.”. But that simply isn’t true. The truth is that dressing well can be affordable and very easy to do, all it takes is a little time and effort.

A widely-used excuse for dressing well is that it’s too expensive and most men don’t want to spend money on fancy clothes when they can buy cheap clothes that work just as well. Fortunately, thanks to end-of-season sales and thrift stores, looking good doesn’t have to break the bank. Being a high school history teacher, I know all about tight budgets. Some of my favorite wardrobe pieces have come from consignment shops and buying off of last-season’s clearance racks.

The hardest part is often knowing where to start. Most men have all of the components for a nice wardrobe in their closet already, but don’t know how to put it all together, so here are some tips to jump-start a more-professional and good-looking wardrobe.

SUITS

Most guys only have a suit or two, and that’s all you really need. A black suit is great for more formal events and a blue, navy, or grey suit can fit almost every other occasion. No matter the style or the color of the suit, the most important thing about a suit is making sure that it fits well. Most proper men’s stores have in-house tailors that work to make sure your suit will fit properly. If you buy a suit off the rack, you can always take it to a local tailor, and they will be able to hem it in the right places so that it fits great and makes you look your best.

Blazers & Sportscoats

A blazer or a sportscoat can take a blah outfit and make it look better and more professional. The great thing about blazers is the freedom you have to express yourself. A grey or tweed blazer can match almost all outfits, but you could also branch out to more colorful or patterned coats. Just make sure to keep the colors and patterns subtle. You don’t want to look like a newscaster from the 1970’s. I’m looking at you Ron Burgundy.

SHIRTS

One of the easiest ways to make an outfit look better is to upgrade your shirt. Having a few formal dress shirts is always good idea, especially a white shirt or two. Having less-formal button ups is what you should wear for most occasions. Just like blazers, patterns and colors are great for shirts, but don’t go too crazy. If a shirt has 5 different colors, rhinestones, large graphics, skulls or anything else you might find on anything Ed Hardy branded, it’s best to avoid those. Also, I’m not a huge fan of polo shirts, but they can also be worn well in moderation.

PANTS

This is the one area where I think most men today have the biggest trouble with. Now, I’m about to say something that will be controversial with some men, so please don’t get too mad with me. Jeans do not need to be worn at every event. There, I said it. There are way too many guys that think the pinnacle of fashion is a “nice” pair of jeans. Every man should invest in some nice pairs of chinos in various shades.

As for jeans, a dark wash is the best. And just like the rest of the wardrobe, it’s always better to go for slim, form-fitting pants. They will shape your legs better and can make you look slimmer.

SHOES

Again, here I go with the controversial statements. Tennis shoes belong on the running track. Cowboy and work boots belong in a field. A nice pair of canvas or leather botas, loafers, or oxfords can take a sloppy outfit and make it look sharp. Even a nice pair of canvas sneakers can work, but keep the Nikes and Reeboks confined to exercise time.

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Written by Judith Roberts

Photo Credit: Brian Blakely SPEAK Magazine

Above: Lauren & Aaron Jennings 24

Right: Chamie Thornton

“I haven’t thought once, ‘Man, I miss that. I need to buy another one,’” Chamie said. uston resident Bethany Cox has a self-proclaimed connection with tiny houses – and she joked that it has something to do with her petite body frame.

“I find tiny houses cute,” she said. “Cute things make me happy.”

Bethany, like many Americans now, is fascinated with the Tiny House Movement, a surge toward minimalism and living in a house smaller than some studio apartments.

Bethany said she could see herself living in a modern designed tiny home with an open floor plan, clean lines and tidy corners.

“This Tiny House Movement has become special to me because it encourages that sense of minimalism and redirects home owners to find peace in nature and human independence apart from all the stuff,” she said. “As a single woman, I have never really felt the need to accrue too many pieces of furniture, knick-knacks or random items that tend to create clutter. Honestly, I feel the transition from my current 1,100 sq. ft. home to a modest 300 sq. ft. tiny house on wheels wouldn't be as drastic of a change for me as it would for most people with spouses or families.”

The family issue came up for West Monroe residents Matt and Chamie Thornton, who, along with their three children, are moving into a tiny house – just under 400 square feet.

“We wanted to have a reason to get rid of stuff and to simplify,” Chamie said. “We felt we were focusing our time on things and not people.”

Matt and Chamie said they received a lot of “Are you kidding?” reactions from friends and family when they said they wanted to go tiny.

“Now it’s more of, ‘I wish we could do that,’” Chamie said.

“They think they can’t get rid of their stuff.”

The Thorntons said out of all of their personal belongings they had discarded, they hadn’t missed anything.

The couple said the kids were excited about the new house.

“When we started this adventure, Matt and I strongly felt that God was telling us to stop focusing on the things we had and instead focus on the people in our lives,” Chamie wrote on her blog, thetinytruth.com. “After a lot of talking, thinking, and most importantly praying, we are actually going back to where we started -- the true tiny house. We have picked a model and are working with a local salesman to order just what we want. I'm sure it will be a crazy -- and sometimes frustrating -- ride, but in the end I am sure there will be enough laughter, joy and love in that little house to overshadow all of the trials.”

Aaron and Lauren Jennings, of Farmerville, are known in north Louisiana for their business, Jennings Apiaries, which sells everything from honey to lotion to honeycomb necklaces.

Thoreau and the idea of a simple lifestyle influenced both of them, even before they married.

“I was drawn to that simple, minimalist lifestyle,” Lauren said.

“That was a goal. We both wanted that.”

When the two got engaged, they said they started looking at creating a new, full life in a tiny house.

“I started looking at tiny houses in ’08, in all sorts of different versions – cargo crates, trailers,” Aaron said. “Ultimately, what worked for us was a portable building. We had the shell. We didn’t build the exterior shell, but we did everything inside.”

Their house is 200 square feet, and the Jennings said the most shocked reaction they receive is often when they explain to people their bathroom is outside.

“We have a five gallon hot water tank (for the shower),” Aaron said. “It lasts about five minutes.”

This tiny house will not be their final destination, though. The Jennings have been exploring other options, such as a Yurt, which is a portable, round, sturdy tent. The Yurt they’ve been eying would be more than triple the size of their current home – a whopping 752 square feet.

“It’ll be very open,” Aaron said. “I like the openness of it. I think I’d always want to live in something small. You don’t gather so many things.”

Lauren said she spent a lot of time as a kid camping and spending time outdoors, and she knew she wanted that life as an adult.

“I wanted all these things, but I didn’t know they were possible,” she said.

Experience tiny. ______________________________________ Judith Roberts is a journalism instructor at Louisiana Tech University and a born and raised Louisianan. She is an alumna of Tech, Grambling State, and the University of Southern Mississippi. She and her husband Kyle have one gorgeous and feisty child, Alice, and they are members of Temple Baptist Church. Judith has run three half marathons and also enjoys reading and writing -- but not arithmetic.

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penny for your thoughts written by Penny Jones The Wind Whispers of Praise

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he wind whispers through the trees, as the excitement is felt tangibly within the air. All is beautiful. The pungent smell of flowers ride the wind as it teasingly plays with the swaying moss. This silver moss waves gently in the breeze, as it robes the mighty oaks whose strength stands the testament of time beckoning the travelers to come beneath their shade. Lily white azaleas display their grandeur as they sweepingly beckon the couple to walk within their fragrant path. Life is good, it is bright with promise, and hope is substantially obvious. It was a day to be remembered, it was a day that had been prepared for…it was my wedding day. Under the hanging moss, with flowers in full bloom, and on the banks of Lake Peigneur I pledged my life to an amazing man.

As little girls we dream of the day we will wed. What our dress will look like, what type of cake we will have, and how many layers it will hold. Yet, most importantly we always dream of who will be waiting at the end of the aisle for us.

Who is to be the one that pursues us so relentlessly and with such gentleness that we give our heart into his hands?

Though in my dreams the picture was always hazy, on this day it was as clear as day. By the grace of God I had found the one to whom I wished to pledge my life. I wanted no other, and dreamed of no other. For by the providential hand of God our paths had crossed, and were soon to become aligned as one. As I slipped into a satin white grown that could only be fastened and unclasped with tender hands as it had twentyseven buttons down the back. I waited in anticipation to give all I had away, as my Father joyfully handed me to the man who had won my heart.

What do your wedding plans look like?

Maybe you have had your day, and you are currently journeying together. Did your path start how you wished? Was it in celebration…was it in haste… was

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it in joy..? I hope dear reader that it was all you wished it to be. There is one wedding that was not consummated in love, but grew into it. May this story bring you encouragement, for you see we are all journeying in life. May your journey be full of God’s unending grace.

So as you recount your story ask God to let you see it through his perspective.

Leah, the one whose name means weary, found a “Place of Praise”.

“She conceived again, and when she gave birth to a son she said, ‘This time I will praise the Lord.’ So she named him Judah. Then she stopped having children.” (Genesis 29:35) Slowly tears of pain rolled down.

Sounds of anguish were felt, but ever so quietly hidden within the depth of her heart. Her dreams were mixed with fears of rejections. Hopes of being wanted, desired, and loved were fading away as preparations came for the next days of life. Loneliness seemed to be the only companion near her. Again overlooked. Misery… will it ever go away she wondered.

Leah faced rejection when after her wedding night her husband Jacob was more concerned about getting his “right” bride, while not realizing the blessing standing beside him. Did she dream of a man who would come pursue her and rescue her? One who was handsome, full of integrity, and whose home she would feel cherished and safe in? The right position to start a family with. We may never know her exact thoughts, but as women we can reflect upon and imagine what she encountered. She lived within a culture that determined the oldest would wed first. (Genesis 29:26) She watched as a man worked his heart out for her sister, but it seemed no one would do the same for her. Then she was to marry this man, Jacob, who desired her sister. What were the emotions running through her the night she wed him? Did Leah ponder in her heart, will he desire me and want me? More importantly will he decide to choose me, and what was the look on Jacob’s face, when he realized it was not his “Rachel”?

God saw her pain in all this and allowed her to conceive. *First, Reuben. “It is because the Lord has seen my misery.” *Simeon- “Because the Lord heard that I am not loved…” *Judah- “This time I will praise the Lord” (Genesis 29:32-35) In the midst of her grief, he gave her life.

There are times in this journey that when all seems dark, it actually is not. Life is standing right in front of us, and though the pain may seem to have darkened our perspective for a while “in all things we are to give thanks.”(1 Thessalonians 5:18) God took a situation that failed every women’s dreams, but used her story to encourage millions. And I like to believe Jacob realized his blessing for it was by her side that he asked to be laid to rest. Our stories may not all start out in the best circumstances, but we must run our race. For it is how we finish that counts. Leah and Jacob ran their race, and in death were laid to rest together.

Run Dear One. Run for life is precious and in the darkest moments remember the Son’s rays of hope will come. For even in darkness God is there. This season will pass, but while you are in the midst of it. Find your place of praise! *Note: The place described on my wedding day is the beautiful location of Jefferson Island also known as Rip Van Wrinkle Gardens in New Iberia, Louisiana. More information can be found at ripvanwinklegardens.com.

Happy Anniversary to my husband of 7 years!

---------------------------------------------------Penny Jones was born and raised in Louisiana, and finds joy in the history of this unique state. She holds a degree in English from the University of Kansas CityMissouri.

www.bienvillechamber.org info@bienvilleparish.org

(318) 263-9897 Follow Us:

EVENTS Bienville Beard Busters March 23rd

SLABTOWN

March 31st - April 1st

Bonnie & Clyde Festival May 19th & 20th

Sponsorship & Tickets on sale now for our Annual Chamber Banquet on April 17th with Guest Speaker, Lt. Governor, Billy Nungesser.

AREA ATTRACTIONS

Bonnie & Clyde Trade Days March 17,18,19 April14,15,16 May12,13,14

Driskill Mountain

Highest Point in Louisiana

Trails End Golf Course

Dr. Pallavi Shirsat

Nephrology Internal Medicine

MINDEN MEDICAL CENTER IS PLEASED TO WELCOME OUR NEWEST PHYSICIAN

Patients with kidney conditions have a new ally and hope in Dr. Pallavi Shirsat. One of the newest members of the Minden Medical Center staff, Dr. Shirsat specializes in NEPHROLOGY, treating kidney patients of all ages with hypertension and kidney diseases. Dr. Shirsat will also establish an inpatient dialysis unit at MMC, providing excellent care, for acute dialysis patients while they are hospitalized.

INTERNAL MEDICINE, she enjoys the challenge of working on complex medical cases, with the goal of making patients’ lives easier. By being on top of their illnesses, listening, and addressing all of their Dr. Shirsat is accepting new patients at Minden Nephrology & Hypertension located at 102 Monroe Street, Suite B in Minden.

Appointments may be made by calling (318) 382-7290.

PROFESSIONAL MEMBERSHIP American Society of Nephrology National Kidney Foundation EDUCATION MEDICAL SCHOOL Lokmanya Tilak Municipal Medical College Mumbai, India

INTERNAL MEDICINE & PEDIATRICS INTERNSHIP & RESIDENCY University Health Shreveport, LA NEPHROLOGY FELLOWSHIP University Health Shreveport, LA

PERSONAL Dr. Shirsat grew up in Nasik, Maharashtra, India and enjoys traveling and spending time with her husband, Kunal, who is also an Internal Medicine Physician and Hospitalist in Bossier City and their son Aansh.

www.mindenmedicalcenter.com #1 Medical Plaza | Minden, LA 71055 | (318) 377-2321

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6

Written By Sara McDaniel

Ways to Get Rebates, Rewards and Even FREE Money RIGHT NOW! D

id you know there are some EASY ways you can earn quick cash right now? With just a little effort, you can easily put your purchases to work for you, generating rebates, loyalty points and even free products. Here are six easy ways to recognize additional financial resources right away!

1. Online Rebate Programs

If you shop online and aren’t participating in an online rebate program, you are leaving money on the table. Sites such as CouponCabin and Ebates receive a commission from leading retailers for referring you to their website. Rather than pocket 100% of the commission, they share the commission with you, giving back a percentage of your total purchase. You can choose to get a quarterly check or Paypal deposit. HOWEVER, if you choose to load your rebate onto a gift card (i.e. Ulta, Amazon, Walmart, etc.), you will often get an additional bonus ON TOP OF the rebate you have already earned! Right now, if you sign up for Ebates, you’ll receive $10 FREE just for signing up! No strings attached. Here’s a custom (affiliate) link to get you started: https://tinyurl.com/minutemag

2. Couponing

Reality TV has glamorized “couponing” and some DIE HARD couponers have it down to a science. But if you play your cards right, you too can save big bucks. CVS is a GREAT place to coupon. If you have a CVS ExtraCare card, you receive 2% cash back on all your purchases (in the form of quarterly ExtraBucks). You can also stack CVS and manufacturer’s coupons for additional savings (adding up to free or greatly reduced items). And, be sure to watch for extra ExtraBucks on items where you are stacking CVS and manufacturer’s coupons. The goal is to make couponing work for you to save you money. It's not spending more on things you don't need just because they are almost free.

3. Loyalty Programs

Retailers want you to spend money on their brand. They WANT you to be loyal. Therefore, it makes perfect sense to reward you for spending your dollars with them (over a competitor).

Oftentimes, retailers will provide an immediate incentive when you sign up for their loyalty program (i.e. an instant use coupon, a free item, etc.). Then, in turn for spending your money with them, you’re awarded points you can exchange for free products or discounted items. Some of my favorite loyalty retailers are Office Depot, Panera Bread, Johnny Carino’s, Jason’s Deli, Starbucks and Landry’s. These retailers all offer significant value in return for loyalty to their brand. It makes sense to shop with them, in exchange for small rewards as a thank you. The travel industry is no exception. Airlines and hotels want you to be loyal. Points earned can be exchanged for free flights and hotel stays. And don’t forget the VIP treatment you’ll receive as a loyal customer. Sometimes that’s worth more than any free item.

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4. Money Saving Apps

Never walk into a retailer without first checking for a coupon in the Coupon Sherpa app (free download). Most major retailers will have some type of coupon present within the Sherpa. You simply pull up the coupon and the cashier either scans it OR enters the code from the coupon into the register. And VOILA! Instant savings! Shopkick is another easy to use app that helps you save and earn money. Shopkick awards points for scanning barcodes of items (for market research purposes).

They will even give you FREE points for simply walking into a retailer! You exchange the earned points for gift cards to your favorite retailers. That’s FREE money! Also, be sure to check out the Walmart Savings Catcher app or Ibotta for additional opportunities to save.

5. Accumulate Credit Card Points

Whoa! Before you go all Dave Ramsey on me, hear me out.

First and foremost, a credit card must be treated responsibly and MUST be paid off EVERY month. So this little trick will only work if you are disciplined enough to do so. Most credit card companies entice you with a low or 0% interest rate for a set period of time. They also may extend bonus points at sign up.

In addition, in order to keep you as a loyal customer, most will give you points (or a percentage back of your purchases) you can exchange for other goods or services. Personally, I use my credit card for almost every purchase I make. Anything from gasoline, to groceries, to utilities, to travel and even my tithe goes on my credit card. And at the end of the month, I pay it off in full without exception. In exchange, I rack up an enormous amount of points each year I usually redeem for free airplane tickets. Did you catch that? FREE! If you aren’t able to pay your card off in full every month, DO NOT DO THIS. Sure you may earn anywhere from 1%-3% back in cash or points, but if you are paying ANY interest at all, this is a lose-lose deal and you will not come out ahead. When you pay interest, you are actually paying for your rewards.

6. Interest-Based Checking/Savings Accounts Don’t allow banks to use your money for free! Make them pay you for the privilege of using your hard earned cash.

Always think about how to put your money to work for you!

Any checking or savings accounts you have should pay you SOMETHING for the use of your money. Granted, rates are extremely low on these accounts, but a penny saved is a penny earned, no? Some money earned is better than NO money earned. Bankrate.com is an excellent source to research and compare rates.

There are many other tips and tricks you can use to save money, but these six are some of my tried and true! If you have other suggestions, we’d love for you to share them on The Minute Magazine Facebook Page!

redeemed &

free indeed written by Sara Enloe

The Golden Rule: Something Gold Can Stay

T

he police officer looked at me incredulously for a few beats. His eyes widened, and he seemed a little confused. He smiled sheepishly before looking away, dismissing our first and only interaction with a polite swipe of his hand.

"No, that's ok...you don't have to do that," he insisted.

If he knew me, he would know I am not easily deterred.

"I would really like to pay for your lunch. Please. As a thank you for your service." I grinned widely and raised my eyebrows, imploring him to accept.

He chuckled. "Ok. Thank you."

A sound grabbed our attention, and we turned to see a woman with tears in her eyes.

"I've been working here for years and I've never seen anyone buy a stranger's lunch before!"

One would think her comment would have warmed my heart, but it actually made me a little sad. Why, you may ask? Because we were in a Subway.

I saw a police officer standing in line behind me, and I imagined what his life was like. Was he married? Did he have children?

What kind of sacrifices does he make to keep my city safe? How often is he in a life-threatening situation? Does he know that people care? I felt a rush of gratitude, so I told him I wanted to pay for his sub.

Live Music

And that surprised him- a guy who probably has been a police officer for decades. It shocked the sandwich artist working behind the counter. I could feel other people looking at me like I had suddenly sprouted a second head. I walked out with one thought running through my head- showing kindness to strangers should never elicit that type of reaction.

ON THE PATIO

Remember the life lessons your parents taught you growing up? I remember them telling me to share, to never touch the stove, and to look both ways before crossing the street. I also remember them teaching me about the Golden Rule. To paraphrase Matthew 7:12, you should "do unto others as you would have them do unto you." If we all treated others as we would like to be treated, why should my blessing a stranger be so startling?

Like us on Facebook to stay up to date on Specials & Entertainment facebook.com/lAFOGATATEXMEXGRILL

While this story seems like a way to publicly toot my own horn, I am writing this because I am concerned. I think we need to step up, America. Let's stop arguing about everything we disagree on and start to build each other up. We have to remember wherever we go as a country, we go there together. Let's CHOOSE to walk in love.

Fluent in Spanish and meow-ing, Sara Enloe is a Jesus-lovin' cat lady who traded Michigan winters for Florida sunshine. You can find her writing, singing, or laughing at herself. Follow her on Instagram: @quitesimplysara

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Speak It!

written by Kathy B. Nelson

How to Know When to Hold 'Em & When to Fold 'Em

I

b. Use cautions in your freedom I Cor. 8:9-13

f we weren’t all flawed individuals we would never need this “How to” lesson that the Lord taught me around twenty years ago. I longed to be taught how to process disagreements and differing opinions within a church, known as ‘the body of Christ’.

Sometimes people who love each other disagree and then resolve to agree to disagree. However, sometimes those disagreements can become so intense that it is difficult to see through the fog of emotions and hurt and confusion.

We need more wisdom than what we have, we need more insight than we are aware of and we need more love than we are capable of giving. That’s why we need a power and an authority greater than ourselves. These three concepts have proven to be a steady source of peace and power for me. I hope they will be that helpful for you as well.

c. Humbling yourself for God’s purposes - I Cor. 9:19-23

Before you make a stand for something, or speak out for a cause, ask yourself these three “P” questions:

1. Past experience - "last time it was a flop"

1. Is this a PRECEPT of scripture?

Commands of scripture should always be incorporated into the body of Christ, the local church. Some examples are: a. Greatest Commandment – Matthew 22:37-40 b. Witness, Baptize & Teach Matthew 28:19 (bap. Luke 3:21) c. Obedience - 2 John 4-6

2. Is this based on a PRINCIPLE of scripture?

Your idea/plan reflects the intentions of the scripture. a. How you share your faith with others Acts 8:30-34

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3. Is this based on a personal PREFERENCE? What you personally prefer; your opinion about something This is where our churches seem to have the greatest conflicts, unfortunately.

Romans 14:1 A caution for dealing with “arguable matters."

These issues should not violate questions 1 or 2, but are open for discussion…

Your preference or opinion may be based on:

2. Tradition - we have always done it like this; our legacy 3. Cultural trends - music, generational differences, clothing 4. Present circumstances - work on Sunday, daylight savings time, age of children, health, community needs…

These are not BAD things, necessarily, just "arguable”. Decisions can be made with these preferences in mind, but must be kept in perspective. These are not the ones you want to be the “hill that we die on”. They are not, and should not, be worth risking harmony, peace, relationships and bringing shame to the cause of Christ. Why elevate our personal opinions and preferences over the precepts and principles of God’s word?

My prayer is that this equipping tool is an encouragement to you. May your church and all the fellowship of the saints be blessed because you are a source of strength, help and discernment in the grand decisions that are made in your congregation. In the words of that great theologian, Kenny Rogers, others will see that you ‘know when to hold ‘em and know when to fold ‘em.”

“Let us hold tightly without wavering to the hope we affirm, for God can be trusted to keep his promise. Let us think of ways to motivate one another to acts of love and good works. And let us not neglect our meeting together, as some people do, but encourage one another, especially now that the day of his return is drawing near.”

Hebrews 10:23-25 ----------------------------------------------------

Kathy is an author and speaker that loves to bring a word of encouragement to anyone that will listen. Founder of Speak It Ministries, she has been sharing her faith and teaching God's Word for over 30 years. She is a wife, sister, mom and Mimi to some great people and loves spending time with each of them. You can follow her on FaceBook, Twitter @cckahy, Goodreads and Wordpress. She is best described by having a desire to live life, love people and laugh out loud.

Co ach D on nie B armore

L iv i n g a L if e o f In f l ue nc e Writ ten by C edar C r e e k S e n i or L i l l i Roj a s Coach Barmore is a history and civics teacher at Cedar Creek School. He was born in Ruston, Louisiana

in 1946 and grew up there. As a child, Coach Barmore never planned to become a teacher because his mom was an english teacher and he did not want to follow her footsteps.

When he went to college, his major was history but he didn't know what he was going to do with a history degree since getting a PhD or going to law school didn't appeal to him. His senior year in college he finally decided to get a degree in education. When he first started teaching, he taught at Dubach for a year. His supervisor moved to Cedar Creek and called him to tell him to come teach at Cedar Creek.

Coach Barmore said he felt like God was calling him into the ministry and so he had the "desire to be a positive influence" on as many lives as possible. In the middle of his teaching career, he spent three years as a youth minister. He went back to Cedar Creek to continue his teaching path. Since he felt like God was calling him into the ministry, he thought as a teacher he could talk to many students about God. Coach Barmore is also the leader for the FCA (Fellowship of Future Christian Athletes) program at Cedar Creek.

Coach Barmore begin to notice the shaking in his hands in 2016 during the school year. He was diagnosed with Parkinson's in June. He told me, "Nothing has changed much. It's difficult trying to learn to do things with my left hand that I'm used to doing with my right." His school schedule lets him go home early where he can take

his daily nap because he gets tired. He likes to paint during his free time; he also likes to read.

Coach Barmore has been teaching for forty-four years and has greatly influenced the lives of many people and students. I am so very thankful to have him as a mentor for my last two years of high school. I hope to follow in his footsteps and influence the lives of others as he influenced mine.

---------------------------------------------------------------------------------Parkinson's is a chronic and slowly progressive movement disorder- systems worsen over time. Parkinson's usually starts with a tremor, a nervous disorder that causes rhythmic shaking, in one hand; other symptoms include difficultly standing, slow movement, impaired voice, etc. Although there is no cure for Parkinson's, there are treatment options such as medications and surgery that can help control the symptoms. There are many strategies people who are diagnosed with the disease can take to live well with Parkinson's such as managing medication and nutrition, being involved in activities that benefit those, being apart of support groups, and so on. According to the Parkinson's Disease Foundation, approximately one million people in the United States live with Parkinson's disease.

Pictured: Cedar Creek Senior Lilli Rojas with her mentor Coach Barmore

April is , Parkinson s Awareness Month

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bringing back

the past

written by Wesley Harris

food, an amount equal to all commercial production of fresh vegetables.

WIN THE FOOD WAR WITH A “VICTORY GARDEN” 1943. The world was at war. The needs of the American military diverted resources once devoted to building cars and feeding families to the war effort. People dutifully supported the fight by purchasing bonds, recycling scrap metal, volunteering, and knitting socks for soldiers.

With much of the country’s processed food shipped overseas to feed millions of troops, the government established a rationing system to distribute sugar, eggs, milk, butter, coffee, meat, and canned goods. Labor and transportation shortages complicated moving produce to market. To ensure sufficient food for Americans still at home, the government encouraged “Victory Gardens.”

While generations of rural families raised their own food, this was a new undertaking for city dwellers. Nearly 20 million Americans planted gardens in backyards, empty lots and building rooftops. Children cultivated small plots at schools within the shadows of city skyscrapers.

Magazines like the Saturday Evening Post and Life ran stories on Victory Gardens. Women's magazines printed instructions on growing and preserving garden produce. Home canning of fruits and vegetables was promoted to save commercially-canned goods for the troops. In 1943, families bought 315,000 pressure cookers to prepare food for canning compared to 66,000 in 1942.

During World War II, Americans planted more than 20 million Victory Gardens, producing nine to ten million tons of

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Today, the idea of growing our own food seems foreign to our modern lifestyle.

With a fast food joint on practically every corner, even trips to the grocery store seem old-fashioned. We are on the second or perhaps third generation of Americans who rely on someone else to prepare their food, with little idea what it contains or how it affects their bodies.

Although you have no need to garden to compensate for rationing or to demonstrate your patriotism, plenty of other reasons exist. If you have concerns about pesticide use and foodborne illnesses like salmonella, fresh vegetables from your own garden may allay your fears. A family garden presents an opportunity to teach kids food does not just appear in grocery stores and restaurants. As an outdoor classroom away from video games and smartphones, the garden teaches children self-reliance while they engage in a worthwhile family endeavor. Fresh fruits and vegetables possess many healthy advantages over store-bought processed foods. If those aren’t enough reasons, consider the high prices of restaurant fare and the not-so-fresh produce at your local supermarket.

in Louisiana soil. Whether you have a large backyard or just room for a few pots, make this the year you enjoy homegrown, fresh food. A few pennies in seeds will produce more food than your family can eat.

Help is readily available. Check out the Louisiana Vegetable Planting Guide at www.lsuagcenter.com. It is an excellent manual on when to plant, how deep to place seeds, and how to space plants.

The LSU AgCenter county agent in your parish can answer your questions.

Among the easiest vegetables to grow in full sunshine are peas, beans, squash, and okra. Some crops require more space like corn, cantaloupes, and watermelons. Some leafy greens like cabbage, mustard, and spinach prefer the cooler fall months and don’t grow well in Louisiana’s hot summers.

You can win the food war by growing your own Victory Garden.

---------------------------------------------------Photo: Typical WWII Victory Garden Propganda Poster ----------------------------------------------------

Spring planting time is upon us and anyone can grow a Victory Garden.

Many delicious vegetables grow easily

Wesley Harris is a native of Ruston. Among his books are FISH OUT OF WATER: Nazi Submariners as POWs in North Louisiana during World War II and GREETINGS FROM RUSTON: A Post Card History of Ruston, Louisiana, available from amazon.com. Check out his Louisiana history blog at http://diggingthepast.blogspot.com. He can be contacted at campruston@gmail.com.

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a novel approach written by Winnie Griggs The Art Of Backstory – Part VIII

T

his is the eighth installment in my series on Weaving Backstory Into Your Work. In previous articles I discussed what backstory is, what and how much to include in your manuscript, and when to include it. I’ve also discussed five methods you can use, namely Omniscient Narration, Flashbacks, Prologues, Introspection and Dialogue.

Today I’m discussing Implication.

There are two ways you can use Implication to weave in backstory.

•

•

Self Implication – To hint at backstory from the way a character reacts to a particular stimulus.

For instance, if a woman flinches whenever a particular character is near, your reader immediately suspects there is some dark history between the two.

Third Party Implication - This is the flip side of Self-Implication.

It’s where you hint at a character’s backstory based on how other characters react to him/her.

Using Implication requires a deft touch - too subtle and your reader may miss the cues, too heavy-handed and you risk making the reader feel spoon-fed.

But when done well, Implication allows the reader to deduce information about the character’s past on their own. And it provides an impetus for the reader to turn the pages to see if she has guessed correctly.

Here’s an example of Self-Implication from my book The Christmas Journey.

Set-up: The hero and heroine have just faced down a pair of bullies and are getting acquainted. The heroine, by the way, runs a livery and dresses like a man.

Squaring her shoulders, she turned to the gent who’d introduced himself as Ryland Lassiter. “Looks like I owe you an apology, Mister. And a big thank you to boot.” She thrust out her hand, not sure if he’d take it after the way she’d lit into him.

But he seemed willing to let it go.

Taking her hand, he gave a short bow

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before releasing it. Well, wasn’t he a fancy-mannered gent?

“Apology accepted. And there’s no need for thanks. It’s you who saved the day. Miss...” He cocked his head to one side with a questioning smile.

“Wylie. Josephine Wylie. But everyone calls me Jo.” “Well, Miss Wylie, I’m glad I could be of service.”

Miss Wylie - she couldn’t remember the last time someone had called her that.

Certainly not since her pa died and she took over the livery.

She was suddenly very aware of how unladylike she looked in her overalls and boots. Certainly not like any of the prim and proper misses a fancy gent like him must be used to.

As you can see, in this passage we get a glimpse of her self-image which is tied to the kind of life she’s led up to this point in the story.

This next example is from my book Something More.

It’s an example of the second type of implication, one that hints at backstory through other character’s reaction to your protagonist.

Set up: The heroine has arrived at her destination via stagecoach and is about to disembark.

She picked up the basket that served as Poppy’s carrier, tightened her hold on her parasol, and shifted forward.

Moving to the door as if it were heaven’s gate itself, she barely avoided a tumble when the coach lurched and then stilled again.

“Ooof!”

She turned to apologize to the passenger she’d inadvertently jabbed with her parasol. “Mr. Jenkins, I’m so–-” “Watch out!”

Elthia pivoted, this time carefully pointing her parasol toward the floor.

“Oh dear, Miss Simms, I didn’t mean–-” The matronly woman gave her a tight smile as she straightened her tipsilyangled hat. “No worries, dear. This is your stop, isn’t it? You just go on.

Don’t want to keep whoever’s meeting you waiting.”

“But–-” “No, really, just go on.”

Elthia looked around. Several other passengers were enthusiastically nodding. Really, this was the nicest group of people. Especially considering the fuss Poppy had made with his yipping eagerness to get to know the other passengers.

She gave them all a big smile, then stepped through the door, ready to begin her new life.

Elthia obviously thinks everyone is just being friendly and is clueless to the undercurrents. But hopefully, through the other characters’ words and actions, the reader understands just what kind of irritations she and her dog visited on her companions during the long coach ride.

That’s it for our discussion of Implication.

Next time I’ll wrap up this series with a discussion on the use of Description to reveal Backstory.

Remember, revelation of Backstory is most effective when it both unveils the past and adds to the present situation.

Winnie Griggs grew up in south Louisiana in an undeveloped area her friends thought of as the back of beyond. She and her siblings spent many an hour exploring the overgrown land around her home, cutting jungle trails, building forts and frontier camps, and looking for pirate ships on the nearby bayou. Once she ‘grew up’ she began capturing those wonderful adventures in the pages of her notebooks. Now a multi-published, award winning author, Winnie feels blessed to be able to share her stories with readers through her published books. You can learn more about Winnie at www.winniegriggs.com or connect with her at www.facebook.com/WinnieGriggs.Author

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