Twas the First Night Before Christmas grew out of a desire to tell the Christmas story in an accessible way.
The hope was to allow families to share and enjoy the real story of Christmas while acknowledging that there was once an historical figure who also served Christ by giving to children selflessly.
In our family tradition, we always told our children about Jesus and His birth and earthly ministry. We also explained the history of Santa Claus and included that aspect of the Christmas season as well. That seemed to accomplish the goal of introducing our children to the real meaning of Christmas without the trauma of pretending that the modern idea of Santa is real only to suddenly be disabused of that fantasy when they hear that he is not.
Understanding the Christian roots of the story and incorporating it with our family observances of the holiday made for a well-rounded season of celebration surrounding the birth of our wonderful Lord and Savior, Jesus Christ. It is my hope that your family enjoys adding this to your tradition as well!
Sherrie Stone Graphic Designer 936-449-0138 sskkjj1@gmail.com
Rebecca Goff
Marketing Prayer and Praise Coordinator 713.376.5454 rebecca.goff.07@gmail.com
Joe Martin Sales and Marketing for Crockett and surrounding areas 281-702-1572 joemartinshow@joemartinshow.com
TiMMark Angels.org. facebook.com/WholeKidAndKaboodle/ Find Us Online!
Jerri’s Corner
It’s Not Over
I was so relieved and happy about our recent election results, but it is not over. There is still praying to be done, beseeching God to lift up our President and his cabinet. We need to pray for their protection and for wisdom in every decision they make. Our country was founded on Godly principles and we now have leaders that believe in the constitution and the dream that our founding fathers worked so hard to make a reality, but they will be attacked in every way. Satan will not be happy and will use every means possible to bring them down.
Because my family and friends are 99% conservative Christians, I have not been subject to sadness and mourning but instead extreme joy and thankfulness. Therefore, I feel lifted up and optimistic. Not so with some. I have heard stories of people that voted their beliefs and are ostracized by their families. They are sad, of course, and they also need our prayers. We need to: Pray for our leaders. Pray for our Nation. Pray for people, young and old, rich and poor, educated and non- educated. PRAY, PRAY, PRAY Our country, our very way of life depends on it.
All publications of The Whole Kid and Kaboodle can be viewed on our website: TiMMark Angels.org. and also on our Facebook Page The Whole Kid and Kaboodle. To receive the magazine by mail, submit your address to: jerri42@embarqmail.com.
Reader correspondence and editorial submissions are welcomed and encouraged, but we reserve the right to edit and reject all submissions. Advertisers assume all liability for content in their ad, and Kid and Kaboodle assumes no responsibility for sales or misleading advertisements.
Julio’s Mexican Grill
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Three B’s Bar and Grill
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Kids 3 and under always eat free at Golden Corral with one adult buffet purchase.
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The Value of Homeschooling and Christian Education
by Ray Lacelle
“These commandments that I give you today are to be on your hearts. Impress them on your children. Talk about them when you sit at home and when you walk along the road, when you lie down and when you get up.” (Deuteronomy 6: 6.7 ESV)
In today’s world with its’ ever-changing ethics and ideologies, more and more parents are considering Home School & private Christian School to ensure that their children are taught the essentials of a well-rounded education, combined with the values and ideology which are based upon the Scriptures, providing a Judeo-Christian foundation to their everyday lives.
Some would argue that the scriptures and JudeoChristian values are out-dated and do not relate to today’s culture. Those with such a view would perhaps be surprised to learn that prior to the public school model existing as it does today, America’s first textbook used for 150 years was the New England Primer. Children for generations were taught to read and write while instructing them through the scriptures. The Primer was filled with scriptures, prayers, and important teachings from the Bible, such as The Lord’s Prayer, The Apostle’s Creed, The Ten Commandments and
more. What worked so well for a century and a half has been replaced with a secular mindset. Many, if not most, of our Christian beliefs have been slowly removed from the textbooks that are written for our public school systems. In some cases, history has been intentionally revised with a different narrative which originally wove the God of the Bible into daily life and the basis for the colonists who started what we now know as America. To further emphasize this point, consider how Yale, Harvard, Princeton and other early American Ivy League schools have all seemed to lead in the latest WOKE ideology, yet each of these schools were originally chartered as Schools of Theology, seminaries established to train individuals who were called to preach and teach the Bible. Home School and private Christian school choices provide the greatest flexibility to families desiring to be in control of the belief system in which their child’s education is derived. In 2025, Texas will join many other states in the US to adopt a School Choice voucher program, which will allow parents the choice to use state tax funds, which will be assigned to each Texas child for their education. I hope this article helps you to consider the importance of implementing a Biblical foundation in your child’s education.
Ray Lacelle and his wife Tiffany are the parents of three daughters. He is an author and ordained minister, a radio and video podcast host who is known to teach about prayer. Ray is the principal, administrator & co-founder at Embassy Academy, a private K-12 Christian school in Kingwood, TX. He mentors boys and men assisting them to adopt a lifestyle of servant leadership. Ray is the founder and president of Ambassadors to the Nations, a nonprofit organization he established in 1995, based in The Woodlands, TX. To receive a FREE copy of Ray’s inspirational, patriotic book, MY SACRED FREEDOM, to arrange for Ray to speak to your group, or for more info contact him at: www.ambassadorstothenations.org
El Valor de la Educación en el Hogar y la Educación Cristiana
por Ray Lacelle
“Estos mandamientos que les doy hoy deben estar en sus corazones. Imprímalos en sus hijos. Habla de ellos cuando te sientes en casa y cuando camines por la carretera, cuando te acuestes y cuando te levantes”. (Deuteronomio 6:6.7)
En el mundo de hoy, con su ética e ideologías en constante cambio, cada vez más padres están considerando la educación en el hogar y la escuela cristiana privada para garantizar que sus hijos reciban los elementos esenciales de una educación integral, combinada con los valores y la ideología que se basan en las Escrituras, proporcionando una base judeocristiana a sus vidas cotidianas.
Algunos argumentarían que las escrituras y los valores judeocristianos son anticuados y no se relacionan con la cultura actual. Aquellos con tal punto de vista tal vez se sorprenderían al saber que antes de que existiera el modelo de escuela pública como lo hace hoy, el primer libro de texto utilizado en Estados Unidos durante 150 años fue el New England Primer. Durante generaciones, a los niños se les enseñó a leer y escribir mientras se les instruía a través de las Escrituras. El manual estaba lleno
de escrituras, oraciones y enseñanzas importantes de la Biblia, como el Padre Nuestro, el Credo de los Apóstoles, los Diez Mandamientos y más. Lo que funcionó tan bien durante un siglo y medio ha sido reemplazado por una mentalidad secular. Muchas, si no la mayoría, de nuestras creencias cristianas han sido lentamente eliminadas de los libros de texto que se escriben para nuestros sistemas de escuelas públicas. En algunos casos, la historia ha sido revisada intencionalmente con una narrativa diferente que originalmente entretejió al Dios de la Biblia en la vida cotidiana y la base para los colonos que comenzaron lo que ahora conocemos como América. Para enfatizar aún más este punto, considere cómo Yale, Harvard, Princeton y otras escuelas tempranas de la Ivy League estadounidense parecen liderar la última ideología WOKE, sin embargo, cada una de estas escuelas fue originalmente constituida como Escuelas de Teología, seminarios establecidos para capacitar a personas que estaban llamadas a predicar y enseñar la Biblia.
Las opciones de escuela en el hogar y escuela cristiana privada brindan la mayor flexibilidad a las familias que desean tener el control del sistema de creencias en el que se deriva la educación de sus hijos. En 2025, Texas se unirá a muchos otros estados de los EE. UU. para adoptar un programa de vales de elección escolar, que permitirá a los padres la opción de usar fondos de impuestos estatales, que se asignarán a cada niño de Texas para su educación. Espero que este artículo te ayude a considerar la importancia de implementar un fundamento bíblico en la educación de tu hijo.
Ray Lacelle y su esposa Tiffany son padres de tres hijas. Es autor y ministro ordenado, presentador de podcasts de radio y video que es conocido por enseñar sobre la oración. Ray es el director, administrador y cofundador de Embassy Academy, una escuela cristiana privada K-12 en Kingwood, TX. Es mentor de niños y hombres, ayudándoles a adoptar un estilo de vida de liderazgo de servicio. Ray es el fundador y presidente de Embajadores ante las Naciones, una organización sin fines de lucro que estableció en 1995, con sede en The Woodlands, TX. Para recibir una copia GRATUITA del libro inspirador y patriótico de Ray, MI SAGRADA LIBERTAD, para hacer arreglos para que Ray hable a su grupo, o para obtener más información, comuníquese con él en: www.ambassadorstothenations.org
Discover Your Future at the Generation Park Campus
San Jacinto College’s Generation Park Campus is more than just a place to take classes — it’s a launchpad for your future. Whether you’re looking to start a new career, advance in your current one, or transfer to a four-year university, our campus offers quality education that fits your goals and lifestyle. With small classes, modern facilities, and in-person and online options, we provide a supportive learning environment that makes it easy to earn your degree or certificate.
Generation Park meets the evolving needs of the community. The campus features programs in highdemand fields and emerging technologies, including the upcoming Center for Biotechnology. It also houses the Center of Entrepreneurship, offering resources and mentorship for those wanting to start or grow their own businesses. At Generation Park, you’ll find the resources, support, and opportunities to take your education — and your future — to the next level.
Ready to launch?
Our 57-acre campus near Summerwood and Beltway 8 in northeast Houston is the perfect place to start.
LOCAL PARKS AND ACTIVITIES
Carter Park, Collins Park, Dennis Johnston Park, Jesse h. Jones & nature Center, kiCkerillo-MisCher Preserve, anD PunDt Park
Offers canoe/kayak launches at for those interested in canoeing/kayaking Spring Creek, Cypress Creek, and associated waterways. Reservations are required to use a launch to access Spring Creek, Cypress Creek, or associated waterways. Reservations are not required to use the launch at Kickerillo-Mischer Preserve to access Marshall Lake.
Fishing
Fishing enthusiasts can experience many unique fishing opportunities year-round, with access to fishing in Spring Creek, Cypress Creek, and stocked fishing lakes.
PiCniCs
Offers free picnic pavilions with electricity and grills by reservation only at Burroughs Park, Dennis Johnston Park, Meyer Park, and Spring Creek Park. Jesse Jones Park & Nature Center and Mercer Botanic Gardens also offer free picnic pavilions by reservation only, but electricity is not available at these locations.
Any parks not listed above that offer small picnic pavilions, picnic tables, or grills are available for use without a reservation on first come, first served basis only during normal park hours
Jones Park
Jesse H. Jones Park & Nature Center is a premier 312-acre nature preserve open daily to visitors free of charge. The park features a variety of plant and wildlife species, white sand beaches along Spring Creek, swamps and sloughs with century-old cypress trees, and a pristine floodplain located in a hardwood and pine forest. All features are accessible by over eight miles of paved, handicap-friendly pedestrian trails and several unpaved primitive trails. The Spring Creek Greenway, with over 16 miles of paved trail system along Spring Creek, is also accessible from the park’s Judy Overby Bell Trail and Jones Bender Trail. the Davy CroCkett national Forest
The Davy Crockett National Forest, named for the legendary pioneer, contains more than 160,000 acres of East Texas woodlands, streams, recreation areas, and wildlife habitat. Located in Houston and Trinity Counties,
the forest is centrally located within the Neches and Trinity River basins. The Davy Crockett National
Forest was proclaimed a National Forest by President Franklin Roosevelt on October 15, 1936.Free Tent & RV Camping.
Mission teJas state Park
Enjoy the peace of the Pineywoods and glimpses of the past at Mission Tejas State Park. Midway between Dallas and Houston, the park is at the north end of the Davy Crockett National Forest.
Whether you want to rest or play, you’ll be glad you came!
Hike, Fish, Camp, Nature watch, Explore history, Reserve a group site for your next gathering Davy CroCkett sPring & Brewer Park
Davy Crockett Spring & Brewer Park in Crockett, TX, is a peaceful green space nestled in the heart of the town and is a great place to spend the day with your
family. This park has a playground, picnic tables, and plenty of green space for games and activities. Take a stroll around the park and enjoy the beautiful flowers and trees. And if you’re feeling competitive, challenge your friends to a game of basketball or volleyball.
The Birth of Jesus Christ
Mary, the mother of Jesus Christ was a teen-ager living in Nazareth, a city of Galilee. She was engaged to a man named Joseph and before they came together , the angel Gabriel was sent from God with a message for her. Gabriel came in unto Mary and said “Blessed are you among women, you are highly favored and the Lord is with you. Fear not, for you shall conceive and bring forth a son and you shall call him Jesus. He shall be great and shall be called the Son of the Highest.”
Mary said to the Angel, “How can this be since I know not a man” The angel answered, “The Holy Ghost will come upon you and God will overshadow you therefore the Son of God will be born of you.”
When Mary was found with child of the Holy Ghost, Joseph, being a just man and not willing to make her a public example, thought to put her away privily. While he was thinking on these things, the angel of the Lord appeared to him in a dream saying, “Fear not to take Mary for your wife for that which is conceived in her is of the Holy Ghost” So Joseph did as the angel had bidden him and took Mary for his wife.
In those days, everyone had to travel to his own city of birth to be taxed, so Joseph and Mary traveled to Bethlehem because he was of the house and lineage of David. While they were in Bethlehem, Mary brought forth her first born son, Jesus, and laid him in a manger because there was no room for them in the Inn.
Emi Lynn
Therefore the Lord himself will give you a sign: The virgin will conceive and give birth to a son, and will call him Emmanuel meaning “God with us”
Isaiah 7:14
.At this time there were wise men from the east that came to Jerusalem inquiring “where is he that is born King of the Jews because we have seen His star in the east and have come to worship Him” When they departed, the star which they saw in the east, went before them until it came and stood over the baby, Jesus. When they saw the child with Mary, his mother, they fell down and worshipped Him. They opened their treasures and presented gifts of gold, frankincense, and myrrh. In the same country there were shepherds in the field, keeping watch over their flock. And suddenly the angel of the Lord came upon them and the glory of the Lord shone round about them and they were deeply afraid. The angel said unto them, “Fear not, I bring you good tidings of great joy, which shall be to all people. For unto you is born this day in the city of David, a Saviour which is Christ the Lord.” And suddenly there was with the angel a multitude of heavenly host praising God and saying Glory to God in the highest and on earth peace, good will toward men.
“For a child will be born unto us, a son will be given to us; And the government will rest on His shoulders; And His name will be called Wonderful, Counselor, The Mighty God, The Everlasting Father, The Prince of Peace.”
Main Phone Number: 936-442-7704 Branch Manager: Elaine Taylor 936-522-2792
Humble ISD
welcomes students from throughout the Houston region
Humble ISD, ranked in the top 7 percent of Best School Districts in the nation by Niche, is now accepting students who live throughout the Houston region. Parents who are able to provide transportation may apply to take advantage of all that Humble ISD has to offer. Students
are admitted to elementary, middle, and high schools throughout the 2024-25 school year. The application is available at www.humbleisd.net/open-enrollment.
Innovation drives education at Humble ISD. The district is engaged in a robust school construction and facilityenhancement program that includes new, imaginativelythemed, handicappedaccessible playgrounds at elementary schools; outdoor fitness centers at secondary schools; modernized buildings featuring natural light; inviting collaborative spaces; and career labs.
Humble ISD students benefit from safe learning environments, including a
North Bend Elementary’s “Ski Lodge/ Winter Sports” outdoor play and learn area is a resource for students and the community in Humble ISD
Atascocita Springs Elementary students learn through play on the new Jurassic Park themed outdoor space in Humble ISD.
Humble ISD high schools offer 40 programs of study and 179 CTE courses that provide training in barbering, culinary arts, criminal justice, health sciences, information technology, to name a few. In addition, there are more than 100 Advanced Placement courses, an International Baccalaureate Program, and dual credit classes in partnership with San Jacinto Community College, Lone Star College - Kingwood, and The University of Texas OnRamps program. Students also can participate in JROTC programs from the Army, Navy, Air Force and Marines. With more than 40 job-ready certifications to choose from,
police officer on every campus, an award-winning Humble ISD Police Department, student wellness counselors, and strong family involvement.
Starting in elementary school, Humble ISD students engage in art, music, library, STEM, and physical education in addition to core subjects. A unique offering for middle school students is a Career and Technical Education (CTE) wheel where 6th grade students explore future careers in agriculture, criminal justice, finance, health science, hospitality, information technology, and more.
students can graduate high school and have the skills and credentials to get started on their career right away. Humble ISD students’ SAT scores exceed state and national averages. Humble ISD has some of the most competitive athletics and fine arts programs in the state of Texas, including mariachi and eSports.
Families who are interested in joining a tradition of excellence in academics, athletics, and fine arts are encouraged to apply as out-of-district students today. Spots are limited.
Kingwood Park High School students in Humble ISD dedicate a tiny home to a veteran as part of the Big Heroes, Tiny Homes student-led community collaborative project
Atascocita Middle School students compete in the Top Hat Junior Chef competition in Humble ISD
River Pines Elementary’s Rainforest playground is part of Humble ISD’s “Eat, Play, Learn and Grow” vision
Cleveland ISD Growing and Thriving
Cleveland ISD takes pride in its comprehensive Career Technical Education (CTE) programs. These programs empower students to explore their
interests and develop practical skills in a variety of career clusters. Whether a student aspires to be a skilled tradesperson in Construction or Welding, a culinary artist in Culinary Arts, or a future healthcare professional through Health Science programs, Cleveland ISD offers the resources and support to make those dreams a reality. These CTE programs are designed to give students a competitive edge in their chosen career paths, providing them with the skills and knowledge necessary to excel in today’s job market.
GROWING IN CLEVELAND
The introduction of the Community On Patrol in Schools (C.O.P.S) program is a testament to the district’s dedication to the safety and security of its students. By involving community volunteers in the oversight of school campuses, Cleveland ISD is fostering a strong sense of shared responsibility for safety. These volunteers play a vital role in monitoring various aspects of the school day, ensuring that students can focus on learning in a secure environment. The C.O.P.S program not only enhances safety but also strengthens the bond between the district and the community, creating a supportive and protective educational ecosystem.
Sorcha, the drug detection dog, has quickly become a beloved member of the Cleveland ISD family. With her keen senses and friendly demeanor, she makes the daily campus visits a positive experience for students and staff. Sorcha’s role in the district is essential in ensuring a drugfree environment where students can learn and thrive without
unnecessary distractions. Her presence is a symbol of Cleveland ISD’s proactive approach to maintaining a safe and drug-free school environment, reinforcing the district’s commitment to the well-being of its students.
In summary, Cleveland ISD’s impressive growth, commitment to academic excellence, and dedication to the safety and security of its students make it a standout district in the Texas educational landscape. The success stories of its graduates and the innovative programs in place continue to set high standards for education and provide a nurturing environment for students to flourish. Cleveland ISD is not only growing but thriving, creating a bright future for its students and the community as a whole.
Cleveland ISD is led by Superintendent Stephen W. McCanless. Mr. McCanless is a Native Texan, having been raised in and completing all of his public school years in Channelview ISD. Being from a family of 4 brothers and 5 sisters, McCanless says that education was always a topic of discussion at the dinner table. Mr. McCanless received his Associates Degree in Social Science from San Jacinto College, his Bachelor’s Degree in Literature and Master’s Degree in Education Management, both from University of Houston Clear Lake. McCanless has completed all course work for his Ed.D in Educational Supervision at Lamar University. Mr. McCanless’s philosophy is, “Every child can learn; our job is to support and inspire them in this journey.”
Cleveland ISD is led by Superintendent Stephen W. McCanless. Mr. McCanless is a Native Texan, havingbeenraisedinandcompletingallofhispublicschoolyearsinChannelviewISD.
Being from a family of 4 brothers and 5 sisters, McCanless says that education was always a topic of discussionatthedinnertable.Mr. Science from San Jacinto College, his Bachelor’s Degree in Literature and Master’s Degree in EducationManagement,bothfrom all course work for his Ed.Din Educational Supervision at Lamar University.. Mr. McCanless’s philosophyis,“Everychildcanlearn;ourjobistosupportandinspiretheminthisjourney”.
The Right Plan for Humanity
Deborah Elum, Author & Producer
“Do you want the warranty?” the technician asked, highlighting a potential savings of almost two hundred dollars on my oven repair. The offer sounded good, especially with the added benefit of covering any appliance in my home. I signed up for the plan, confident I had made the right decision. After two months of chasing down someone at the company, I realized that this so-called “warranty plan” would never solve the problem.
I reached out to another appliance company. To my relief, a technician was available that week and came out and fixed the oven. I knew instantly I had made the right choice in switching companies.
The same is true when it comes to finding a solution for the world’s problems. The Bible speaks of hope when our human attempts to “fix” the world has always failed.
God spoke through the Prophet Isaiah His plan in Isaiah 9:6, “For a child will be born to us, a son will be given to us; and the government will rest on His shoulders; and His name will be called Wonderful Counselor, Mighty God, Eternal Father, Prince of Peace.”
When Jesus came into this world, we can trust in the steadfast hope, love, and peace Jesus offers. No matter how often we are faced with problems, the assurance remains: Jesus is the right choice, the ultimate solution and plan for humanity.
Glory to God in the highest, and on earth peace, good will toward men. - Luke 2:14
You can contact Deborah at P.O. Box 1594, Humble, Texas 77347-1594 or calling (281) 878-2062. Listen to Deborah’s Podcast at: https://redcircle.com/shows/changing-your-life-with-the-word Grab a cup of coffee and hold on to your funny bone as a pair of twin sisters put a smile on your face, laughter in your heart, and joy in your soul. This lighthearted comedy about sisterhood, romance, and friendships will leave you thirsting for more. Wake Up and Smell the Coffee! by Deborah Elum. Price $12.95. Available at Amazon.com or LULU. COM.
“A Fabulously Fun Read And Just Downright Hilarious!”
It is Time for a Church Overhaul! The Pastor of Sunnydale Community Church just does not know what to do. He is at his wits end with a church of rowdy ladies, a dysfunctional Deacon Board, and one nosey secretary. A Church with Spots and Wrinkles is a hilarious comedy by Deborah Elum. Price $12.95. Available at Amazon.com or LULU. COM
“Grab a Cup Of Coffee and Hold On To Your Funny Bone!”
Ciera and Friends; How One Community is Building Bonds for Special Needs Families
A parent never forgets the day their child is diagnosed with a disability. They have a label and a name. What now? So many questions to be answered.
How will this affect his future? Will he have friends? Get married? Will she have babies of her own someday? Will he walk? Will she talk?. Unfortunately, most physicians don’t know how to answer those questions.
Raising a child isn’t for the weak in the best of situations. Raising one with the added challenge of special needs can be very stressful. Getting accustomed to the daily demands of a special needs child takes time and organization. We become a combination of mom or dad, nurse, therapist, nutritionist, teacher and health advocate. Marriages can become strained; many even break from stress and anxiety. Add financial struggles from high medical costs and it can be overwhelming. It feels like you’re all alone in this battle, and it’s very difficult to find someone who really understands.
Adding school into a special needs child’s schedule can be extremely challenging. Many children have difficulty with changes of environment, new people, and hours without their support- parent nearby can be overwhelming.
Parents learn very quickly that in order to get their kids’ school needs met, such as specialized equipment, therapy or a personal aid, demands must be made that may not be popular with school administration, who spend their days crunching budget numbers. Giving in isn’t an option if you want them to have every opportunity to be the best they can be.
In the city of Crockett, TX, a few members of the community recognized that these parents and children of all ages should be celebrated. It started with one extremely successful Christmas event in 2020 sponsored by Good Shepherd Fellowship Church and volunteers throughout the county. Families of special needs children of all ages were invited to enjoy the festivities.
The event was so successful the group decided to make it an annual celebration. Last year, Ciera & Friends Support for Families with Special Needs was officially created. In 2023 the group put on a Trunk or Treat, designed a float for the annual Xmas in Crockett Parade, a booth at Xmas on the Square in Crockett, and of course, the big Ciera and Friends Christmas event. The goal is to continue building bonds within the tight-knit community as well as building friendships between the special needs children, their parents and siblings. “It’s important to provide a place for them to participate in fun activities, an environment where moms and dads can support each other and create a community that encourages one another,” says Wendy Dennis, Licensed Vocational Nurse and mother of Ciera, the groups namesake. “Everyone deserves a friend. Someone who understands them, parents and children alike, and every one of these children deserves a community that loves and accepts them for who they are. The truth is these kids are amazing gifts. They teach us a lot more about humanity than we could ever teach them.” explains group member, Marci McLeod
When asked what a group like this can do for families, Morgan Sanders, whose son, Copeland, has Cerebral Palsy, responded, “My hope is that we gain close friendships with
families that are going through the same journeys together. We can learn, understand and advocate for each other while providing mutual support. This group gives me hope for the future and awareness in the community.”
Copelands grandmother, Tonya English, has become a regular figure at the monthly planning meetings, “I got involved to share stories, information and testimonials about our kiddos. Ciera & Friends has such a big heart, always wanting to share and help other kids. We enjoy coming and seeing all the families and enjoying activities together. We’re thankful that we have this program and events for the kids”
From mother Naomi Jent, whose daughter Briana was diagnosed with Seizure Disorder, “My hope is that we teach people how to respond to different types of disabilities, come together as a family with special needs children, and most importantly, build a community that teaches our kids to not let their abilities hold them back from learning new things and reaching their goals,”
Along with Wendy Dennis, the founders of the group include special needs parent and Realtor, Marci McLeod, Special Education teacher in Latexo ISD, Lori May, retired Dental Hygienist and Community Volunteer, Betty Smith and Pastor Leon Wallace of Good Shephard Fellowship Church in Crockett. The group is actively adding more members and hoping to continue to attract more volunteers throughout the county and greater East Texas. “We need all the help we can get with future events”, says Betty Smith
Raising money is a big priority. Having funds for things like medical and adaptive living equipment, therapies not covered by insurance, help with care giving and future scholarships for continuing education will relieve a lot of the hardships for these families.
“You have to start somewhere,” says Marci McLeod. “We can see what this could become and the good we can do for families, and it keeps us energized to continue pushing for the happiness and success of these kids. We may be small now, but together we’re mighty! Anything is possible, and isn’t that the lesson in the end?”
The Group meets monthly at The Haven in downtown Crockett
Join the group on Facebook at Ciera and Friends ciarasfriends24@gmail.com
Lori May 936-204-0284
Ciera & Friends Support for Families with Special Needs is connected with the nonprofit organization, Standing with Crockett. Donations can be made through Standing with Crockett. Please note the group name “Ciera & Friends” on your donations
A CHRISTMAS STORY
“The Man and the Birds”
Well-known radio broadcaster, the late Paul Harvey, told a heartfelt story on air every December that people loved. It portrays why we celebrate the birth of Jesus…the reason for Christmas. What follows is a condensed version of the story. Enjoy!
Once there was a skeptical, non-religious man who just couldn’t swallow the “Jesus story” about God coming to earth as a man. One snowy evening as he sat by the fire reading, he was startled by a loud thud against his house. Then another, and another. He went outside to discover a flock of birds huddled miserably in the snow. Caught in the storm, they had been desperately seeking shelter, and tried to fly into his living room window. His heart went out to the stunned little creatures. He didn’t want to let them lie there and freeze. He thought about his barn. It would provide a warm shelter—if he could direct the birds into it. He opened the barn doors wide and turned on the light. He waited. The birds did not go in. He thought food might entice them, so he sprinkled a trail of bread crumbs on the snow to the doorway of the barn. But the birds continued to flap helplessly in the snow.
He tried catching them. No success. He tried shooing them into the barn, but to his dismay they scattered in every direction except toward the warm, lighted barn.
Then he realized they were afraid of him!
To these helpless small birds he was a huge terrifying creature. “If only I could think of some way to let them know they can trust me, that I’m not trying to hurt them, but help them,” he thought.
But how?
Any move he made seemed to frighten them. They would not follow him.
“If only I could be a bird,” he thought, “and mingle among them and speak their language. Then I could tell them not to be afraid. I could show them the way to the safe, warm barn. But I would have to be one of them, so they could see, hear, and understand.”
In stunned silence he dropped to his knees in the snow . . . “Now I understand,” he whispered, “now I see why you had to do it.”
“For God so loved the world, that he gave his only begotten Son, that whosoever believeth in him should not perish, but have everlasting life” – John 3:16
Paula Enloe worked as a legal assistant for over 25 years and is a certified family law mediator. She is the author of the book “Lessons From My Mirror - Change Begins With Me.” Paula and her husband Noble, began having Bible Studies in their home when Covid-19 restricted public gatherings in church buildings. When their group began to grow, they founded the Family Worship Center of Plum Grove, Texas. In 2022, they moved into a building but continue to keep the home setting inside with couches, tables and chairs. Their motto is “Doing Church Differently”. They count it as their greatest privilege to share the love of Jesus to each person they come in contact with daily.
2025 In A Pickle Festival New Braunfels
Fun, Food, and all things Pickle.
This event is a pickle lover’s dream come true! Indulge in a wide variety of pickled treats, from classic dill pickles to unique pickle-flavored snacks like; pickle pizza, pickle chamoy, pickle snow cones, pickle beer, pickle roasted elote, pickle salsa, pickle cotton candy, freeze dried pickle items, pickle popcorn, and pickled ice cream just to name a few!
Sample delicious pickles from around 25 canning vendors and shop over 100 vendors for pickle-themed merchandise and exciting pickle-themed activities and games for the whole family.
Can you take on some of the biggest pickle lovers in the pickle eating and drinking contest for kids and adults?
Join the pickle canning competition.
And don’t miss out on the pickle pet parade where the best dressed pup gets to take home some exciting prizes!
Come enjoy this community favorite event with local live music by Bluebonnet Basterds, contests, and entertainment throughout the festival!
Event Schedule
11:15- Comal County Senior Citizens Pickle Crowning
12:00- Pickled Pet Parade
12:20- Kids Coloring Contest
1:20- Home Canning Pickle Contest (ALL ENTRIES MUST BE RECEIVED BY 12:20)
Please note we are only accepting 12 ENTRIES for the pickle eating and adult drinking contests.
3:00- Adults Pickle Juice Drinking Contest by Bob’s Pickle Pop’s
4:00- Pickle Toss
Trophies, cash gift cards, and other prizes will be awarded to the top contestants. Please email inquiries to inapicklefestival@gmail.com. For vendor and sponsor information please email inapicklefestival@gmail.com or visit our website for all events and vendor applications at JG-Events.com
