free
APRIL 2016
The
GENTLENESS ISSUE
April 2016
LADYLOWCOUNTRY.COM
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Capturing Life’s Most Precious Moments Family • New Born • Maternity • Kids • Senior • Weddings • Prom
706-817-6195 • www.alliefloydphotography.com • alliefphotography@gmail.com 2 LADYLOWCOUNTRY.COM April 2016
2016 Summer Dance Camps Each of our child tested Camps offer fun dressing up, learning ballet, creative movement, creative drama, eating a healthy snack, craft time, all with a performance on Friday. All New Activities in each camp!! Back by Popular Demand: Princess Dance Camps Designed so that every child is a princess Ages: 3-6 • Only $90/week Monday-Friday • 9am-12 Choose from two camps: Princess Camp One, June 20-24: Themed with the classic princesses Princess Camp Two, June 13-17 or August 1-5: Themed with newer princesses (Space is limited and fills up quickly) Fairy Tale Ballet Camp : July 25-29 • 9am-12 • Ages: 5-8 • Only $90/week Dress up and dance a story of your favorite fairy and princess roles in famous ballets like: Cinderella, The Sleeping Beauty, Coppelia, The Firebird, Swan Lake and many more.
51 Riverwalk Blvd. • Suite C • Ridgeland, SC 29946 (Behind Livingoods) 843-540-5491 • petedelt@hargray.com
www.OkatieYouthBallet.com April 2016
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From the Publisher
TERRI BILOTTA Publisher 843-290-5093 terri@ladylowcountry.com ladylowcountry.com
Where to Find Lady Lowcountry AUNT LAURIE’S 11 Barton’s Run in Bluffton at Studio B BLUFFTON LASH LOUNGE 4376 Bluffton Parkway, Bluffton COLIGNY PLAZA North Forest Beach Drive, Hilton Head CONNIE TAMBURRI HAIR SALON 4376 Bluffton Parkway
Welcome to Lady Lowcountry! WELCOME TO THE SECOND ISSUE of Lady Lowcountry, the faith-based magazine for ladies of all ages and stages of life. The magazine is about local ladies in the Lowcountry telling their stories of faith trials and joys. Lady Lowcountry is about the daily reads keeping us turning the pages each day of the month to work out, be inspired, or plan our meals. So please repay the advertisers by seeking them out for a visit, because without them Lady Lowcountry magazine would not exist. So enjoy Lady Lowcountry’s Gentleness issue, and know that you are reading something that is sure to change lives. Or as we have been hearing all over town, “a much needed publication.”
TERRI BILOTTA
terri@ladylowcountry.com
CURVES OF BLUFFTON 365 Red Cedar Street #302 Bluffton HEALTH SMART 67 Towne Dr Bluffton
YOU’RE INVITED
April Magazine Party
HILTON HEAD LAKES 356 Lakeside Blvd, Hardeeville
10 a.m. - 12 p.m., April 30th at Holiday Inn Express in Bluffton
LOWCOUNTRY ACCOUNTING 11 Palmetto Parkway Suite 105, Hilton Head LE COOKERY The Village at Wexford, Hilton Head MERLE NORMAN Sheridan Park Suite 21, Bluffton MAMEEM AND MAUDIE 7 Lawton Street, Bluffton MAUI TEETH WHITENING 37 New Orleans Road Suite B, Hilton Head JOCELYN’S NEXX FAZE HAIR SALON 103 Okatie Center Blvd N, Okatie OKATIE YOUTH BALLET 51 Riverwalk Blvd, Ridgeland
Bring the entire family to Lady Lowcountry Magazine’s April launch party. Come shop at our advertisers’ booths, watch fashion shows, hair shows, makeovers, and enjoy learning about new products and services for the Spring. Be a part of everything that is new and exciting for this month’s launch party. Help us kick off this month’s fashion issue in style.
BEHIND THE SCENES
PAUL’S OPTICAL The Village at Wexford, Hilton Head POWERHOUSE GYM 1530 Fording Island Road, Bluffton STOKES BROWN TOYOTA 100 Fording Island Rd, Bluffton SUNLESS SOLUTIONS 4376 Bluffton Parkway SUPERIOR HEATING AND AIR 36 Persimmon Rd Unit 202, Bluffton HOLIDAY INN EXPRESS 36 Bluffton Road, Bluffton EDWARD JONES INVESTMENTS, DANIELLE JEFFCOAT 1536 Fording Island Road Ste 208, Bluffton
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April 2016
ALLIE FLOYD Allie Floyd is a local photographer in South Carolina. She specializes in families on the beach, one-of-a-kind seniors, babies and children and teens.
HEATHER BRAGG Heather Bragg, art director, owns the full-service creative firm Bragg Media with her husband, Mike Bragg.
HEIDI DALY Heidi Daly is a licensed esthetics instructor and makeup artist who has been a Hilton Head Island resident for over 31 years.
SONJA GRIFFIN EVANS Sonja is an international Cultural Gullah Artist born and raised in Beaufort, South Carolina.
Table of Contents
12
APRIL 2016
34
Meaningful Mainstays
Faithful Features
15 Lady’s Quiet Time:
10 Cherish the Children:
Help prepare for trials big or small while finding peace in all things.
Working at a nursery is more than a job for Charlene Marshall
21 Workout Calendar:
16 Embracing Personal Change:
29 Daily Bread:
22 Valentine for Africa:
Easy-to-do exercises and in the convenience of your own home. Try some of our tasty Strawberry recipes this Spring.
Two local writers share their journey to forgiveness in their new book Working with orphans has been special to the owner of J Banks Design
VOLUME 1 • ISSUE 2
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Find Lady Lowcountry on Facebook & Twitter © COPYRIGHT 2016 All rights reserved by copyright. Lady Lowcountry Magazine is published monthly. While we have made every effort to ensure information contained herein is accurate, no warranty implied or otherwise is made. This magazine or parts thereof must not be reproduced in any form without written permission from the publisher. The publisher does not make any representations as to opinions and facts.
He made the storm be still, and the waves of the sea were hushed. ~ PSALM 107
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P R E S E N TS
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a Southern Celebration of Food
SATURDAY, APRIL 9, 2016 11:00 AM TO 5:00 PM
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843-757-1010 or visit TASTEOFBLUFFTON.COM for more information
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M E D IA S P O N S O R S: Event made possible with help from: Advanced Intergrated Controls, Timeless Interiors, Michael DeVito - Fred Maiden Insurance, Superior Aire
ATTENTION LADY LOWCOUNTRY READERS! Enter for your chance to be a featured makeover in Lady Lowcountry Magazine. Here’s how: First, visit as many stores listed below as possible by the 27th of April. Second, ask the business representative to sign and date their allotted space below. Third, snap a photo and email us at terri@ladylowcountry.com or bring to the launch party on April 30th for a chance to win a free makeover and professional photo session with Allie Floyd Photography. Then look for your before and after shot in the May issue of Lady Lowcountry. Good luck!
AUNT LAURIE’S Visit website in the shopping section for a code to receive signature credit.
BLUFFTON LASH LOUNGE Studios on the Parkway 4376 Bluffton Pkwy Suite 102 Bethany James, 843-368-7711 Jenifer Williams, 843-290-1192
PAUL’S OPTICAL
495 Buckwalter Pkwy Bluffton, SC 29910 843-706-2000 www.crossschools.org
HEALTHSMART OF BLUFFTON 67 Towne Drive Bluffton, SC 29910 843-815-5525 www.healthsmartbluffton.com
CURVES OF BLUFFTON 365 Red Cedar St #302 Bluffton, SC 29910 843-706-2844 www.curves.com
LE COOKERY The Village at Wexford 1000 William Hilton Pkwy Hilton Head Island, SC 29928 843-785-7171 www.lecookeryusa.com
TRAVELS
CONNIE TAMBURRI HAIR STUDIO
The Village at Wexford 1000 William Hilton Pkwy, 843-686-4522 www.paulsopticalhhi.com
Studios on the Parkway 4376 Bluffton Pkwy Suite 102 843-290-9292 www.ConnieTamburri.com
www.auntlauries.com
CROSS SCHOOLS
Lad
EDWARD JONES
SUNLESS SOLUTIONS
Danielle B Jeffcoat, AAMS® Financial Advisor 1536 Fording Island Rd Ste 208 Hilton Head Island, SC 29926 843-815-4054
Spray Tan Boutique Studios on the Parkway 4376 Bluffton Pkwy Suite 102 843-338-0010
LOWCOUNTRY ACCOUNTING SERVICES
MAMEEM & MAUDIE 7 Lawton Street Old Town Bluffton 843-757-0786 www.mameemandmaudie.com
11 Palmetto Pkwy, Suite 105 Hilton Head Island, SC 29926 706-877-3574 www.lowcountryaccounting.com
JOCELYN’S NEXX FAZE
MERLE NORMAN
MAUI WHITENING
OKATIE YOUTH BALLET
S.C. 170, Next Door to Ashley Home Furniture 843-705-2050
70 Pennington Dr. Village At Sheridan Park, Suite 21 Bluffton, SC 29910 843-815-5412
37 New Orleans Road, Suite B Hilton Head Island, SC 843-715-3038
51 Riverwalk Blvd. 3 Suite C Ridgeland, SC 29946 843-540-5491 www.OkatieYouthBallet.com
COLIGNY PLAZA One North Forest Beach Drive at Coligny Circle 843-842-6050 www.colignyplaza.com
STOKES BROWN TOYOTA
SUPERIOR AIR
100 Fording Island Rd. Bluffton, SC 29910 888-994-0079 stokesbrowntoyotahiltonhead.com
36 Persimmon Rd. Unit 202 Bluffton SC, 29910 844-334-3584 www.Superior.AC
Coligny Plaza shops Rita’s Barber Stylist Coligny Hardware Best Gift Idea EVER Airbrush Creations HHI Cell Phone Taste of America H.H Embroidery ANA Puzzle Carolina Tasting Room Black Market Minerals
Coligny Kite & Flag Co. Traveling Chic Boutique Sweet Carolina Cupcakes Hilton Head Candy Co. The French Kiss Bakery Mingles (and Christmas too) Stu’s Surfside Subs & Suds Hot Daddy’s Sauce & Oil, Co. Hilton Head Sunglasses Temporary Henna Tattoos
Bennali’s Billy’s Beach Club Bikes & Things Blue Moon Camp Hilton Head Chico’s Del Sol Francesca’s Collections Fresh Produce
Frosty’s Closet Island Girl Jamaican Me Crazy Quiet Storm Soma Sun & Sand Tee Hut Tropical Styles The Bird’s Nest
Coligny Theatre Big Bamboo Coligny Deli & Grill The Ice Cream Cone Earle of Sandwich Frosty Frog Café Frozen Moo Gringo’s Diner House of Jerky
Island Fudge Shoppe Caretta Coffee Market Street Café Piggly Wiggly Rita’s Italian Ice Roller’s Liquors Skillets Grill & Café Steamers Seafood Subway
Vine Coastal Sunglasses Boomerang Toys The Shell Shop Wax & Beyond The Bird’s Nest The Kangaroo Express The Cutting Room Hair & Co.
A furry kind of
THERAPY
by LAURIE BROWN IT’S HARD TO BELIEVE Aunt Laurie’s was launched a little over a year ago. The days and weeks blur together as I busily learn the ins and outs of running my own business. I really wouldn’t want it any other way, and I recommend it to anyone with the dream of entrepreneurship. Just be ready for hard work and challenges, both physically and mentally. I love meeting new people, learning new things, helping people, being busy, working, and going to church. I do try to learn something new every day. As I think about the year past, I’ve actually learned a lot. For example; networking and how important it is in business, morning is my most productive time of day, social media, importance of counting my blessings (I always knew that, just reinforced), driving and navigating the Lowcountry, how much I underestimated my husband’s organizational skills, my body does change after 55, and how much I love being outside and having feeling the sunshine on my face! I’ve learned there are so many awesome women business owners in the Lowcountry as well. One of the most important things I am continually learning is the prevalence of disabilities in our communities. Having a passion for helping people with disabilities is the driving force behind Aunt Laurie’s, but I must admit I don’t know specific details about about the topic. I just know I want and need to help. Did you know April is National Autism Awareness Month? Another interesting fact I’ve learned in my research. Awareness, action, inclusion, acceptance, and appreciation is the theme. Nearly a quarter century ago, the Autism Society launched a nationwide effort to promote autism awareness, inclusion and self-determination for all, and assure that each person with ASD is provided the opportunity to achieve the highest possible quality of life. This year they want to go beyond simply promoting autism awareness to encouraging friends and collaborators to become partners in movement toward acceptance and appreciation. Site: http:// www.autism-society.org/ I recently was honored to be asked to join the Action for Autism Board of Directors. Working to learn more about the mission and how I can help, I am learning the eye-opening statistics and now see the growing importance of getting involved to help the families, schools, and caregivers. Please visit our website to learn more about the organization https://www.afastl.org/. We are planning a few upcoming events as well, including a run/walk and another trivia night. Autism spectrum disorder (ASD) and autism are both general terms for a group of complex disorders of brain development. These disorders are characterized, in varying degrees, by difficulties in social interaction, verbal and nonverbal communication and repetitive behaviors. I’ve have learned Autism is treatable 8
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and pray to God we can figure out this complex challenge. Children do not “outgrow” autism, but studies show that early diagnosis and intervention lead to significantly improved outcomes. Site: https://www.afastl.org/. While new statistics are frequently available, Autism statistics from the U.S. Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) identify around 1 in 68 American children as on the autism spectrum–a ten-fold increase in prevalence in 40 years. Careful research shows that this increase is only partly explained by improved diagnosis and awareness. Studies also show that autism is four to five times more common among boys than girls. I recently was blessed to meet an awesome women who runs Autism, Inc. in Bluffton. Dr. Lorrie Spencer invited me and Trapper to make a visit to her Bluffton facility. Autism, Inc. opened about 8 years ago and helps around 60 children from ages 2-18 yrs. in Beaufort County. Assisting and consulting with social and behavior skills, as well as cognitive skills and language, Autism, Inc. is helping to make a difference in our community. Please visit the website to learn more: http://www.autisminc.net/about-us. html. To get involved, join The Autism Giving Tree and Autism, Inc. at their upcoming carnival on April 24th for games, food and fun being held at the Lowcountry Kitchen in Bluffton. Trapper and I had a wonderful time with all the children and staff at Autism, Inc. Trapper was a little nervous and so were the kids at first, but after a few minutes everyone settled down.
One little boy was just so happy to be able to hold Trapper’s leash all by himself as we all walked around the building. By the end of our visit, another boy finally had the courage to pet Trapper ever so lightly on his back…a huge accomplishment as he wouldn’t get near him when we first arrived! Since Trapper is a certified Therapy Dog, we also visit local libraries typically on a monthly basis. He patiently sits with the children, and they read out loud to him. He is quite a large animal, so sometimes he scares the kids. By the end of the session, he is getting hugs, his paw held, and kisses! HealthDay News states a new research review finds for children with autism, trained dogs may offer not only a furry friend, but some therapeutic benefits, too. There is a “substantial body of evidence” that dogs act as “social catalysts,” even encouraging adults to be a little friendlier to each other, said senior researcher Francesca Cirulli1, of the National Institute of Health in Rome, Italy. And the few studies that have focused on kids with autism suggest the same is true for them. Redefer and Goodman2 observed that, following the introduction of a friendly dog into a therapeutic session, seriously withdrawn children with ASD showed a sharp increase in the frequency of both verbal and nonverbal social behaviors; this increase was directed
toward the dog and the therapist and was paralleled by a decrease in children’s withdrawal. Martin and Farnum observed children’s social behavior when they were interacting with a live dog. These authors found that children were less distracted, exhibited a more playful mood, and were more aware of their social environment when in the presence of the therapy dog. Furthermore, verbal interactions were stimulated by the presence of the animal: Children were more likely to talk to the dog, engaging the therapist in discussions regarding the animal, and speaking less about topics unrelated to the therapeutic protocol during the dog condition.3 People have long turned to animals as a way to help with health conditions or disabilities — either as part of formal therapy or to offer everyday assistance (such as guide dogs for the blind). After my research and reading these articles, Aunt Laurie’s is even more proud to work with Leaders Dogs for the Blind, Heroes on Horseback, Action for Autism, Autism, Inc., The Chocolate Spectrum, ScentsAbility, Inc. and all the other awesome organizations we support! I also learned that not enough research has been done about therapy dogs and developmental disabilities. Hmm… maybe Aunt Laurie has a good Doctorate dissertation topic now?
1. Alessandra Berry, Marta Borgi, Nadia Francia, Enrico Alleva, and Francesca Cirulli. The Journal of Alternative and Complementary Medicine. February 2013, 19(2): 73-80. doi:10.1089/acm.2011.0835. 2. Redefer LA, Goodman JF. Brief report: Pet-facilitated therapy with autistic children. J Autism Dev Disord 1989;19:461–467.
3. Martin F, Farnum J. Animal-assisted therapy for children with pervasive developmental disorders. West J Nurs Res 2002;24:657–670.
Love is in the Air... www.AuntLauries.com 843-940-7116
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Not just another gift basket. Our gift baskets give back. Everyone has a special day, special person, or special celebration… why not send an Aunt Laurie’s gift basket?
Gifts That Give Back. Gifts That Make a Difference. Gifts for all Occasions. April 2016
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CHERISH
your babies
Working in a nursery gives this Lowcountry woman a chance to enjoy and nurture children every day by CHARLENE MARSHALL I WAS BORN IN VAN BUREN, a small town in northern Maine. My husband and I moved here from Maine seven years ago. I have three children, ages 31, 28 and 26. I also have three incredible grandkids ages 7, 5 and 2. I have been employed at Lowcountry Day for six years. During this time I have taken care of over 100 infants and have had the opportunity to see some of my first children graduate to kindergarten. Each and every one of these children are a choice gift from God. There is no greater joy than to be with these little ones. My grandchildren live in Idaho and I only get to see them once a year so being around children every day is a blessing I cherish. I like to sing to the children to make them smile. I love seeing their personalities develop and the excitement in their eyes when they discover a new toy or a new sound. Sometimes I care for my graduated babies’ younger siblings. That is when the big brothers and sisters come by my room to say hello. It is so much fun to see them feeling all grown up being happy and confident. Parents today struggle with the demands of a busy life. Many parents use technology to entertain their children. I hope that the excitement about new technology doesn’t take the place of personal interaction in the family. Nothing can replace settling down with a good book and reading to these little babies at bedtime. Even playing simple games bring so much joy into their eyes. Sometimes technology can be good but not if it replaces one on one interaction. Some folks might think that working in a nursery is just feeding, rocking, and diapering little babies. There is so much more.
I get to comfort them when they need it and be a part of their little lives every day. I help them discover their world and their capabilities. Every day becomes a miracle and I get to be a witness of it. For anyone who is getting ready to have a child you need to know that you are about to have your life changed dramatically but having a child will be the greatest thing to ever happen to you. There may be days that are overwhelming. Don’t forget to trust in God and ask for help when you need it. You will discover that He has placed people in your path, like family and caregivers who might have experiences or a helping hand to lighten the load. We sometimes live life at a hectic pace. When we rush through life we sometimes miss the moments we should be treasuring. Our children are the source of the love, joy, and wonderment that God wants us to enjoy. They are a reminder of how much God really loves us. Take time to slow down every day and embrace your children and each day that the Lord has given you.
Some folks might think that working in a nursery is just feeding, rocking, and diapering little babies. There is so much more. 10
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Prom? Senior Portraits? Wedding?
Your Whiter Smile Awaits! 37 New Orleans Road, Suite B, Orleans Plaza | Hilton Head Island, SC
843-715-3038 Like us on Facebook at Maui Whitening Hilton Head! www.mauiwhiteninghhi.com
Studios on the Parkway
Sunless Solutions
Spray Tan Boutique 843.338.0010 sunlesssolutionshhi@gmail.com
4376 Bluffton Parkway Suite 102
Bluffton Lash Lounge Bethany James, 843.368.7711 Jenifer Williams, 843.290.1192 blufftonlashlounge@gmail.com
Connie Tamburri Hair Studio 843.290.9292 www.ConnieTamburri.com
April 2016
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MAKE-UP MAKEOVER
Sponsored by
MERLE NORMAN
BEFORE
PHOTOS BY ALLIE FLOYD
FOR LEILANI’S MAKEOVER, we started with a clean face. To make sure her face was oil/residue free, we used Delicate Balance toner. Starting with a clean/toned face is very important. We started her makeover by concealing her hereditary dark circles with dual action concealer (in light). We used our Primer Plus very lightly to help the foundation go on smoother and minimize pores. The foundation we used (Lasting in the color: cream) is a non-transferable foundation that is perfect for special occasions for any skin type or every day for normal to oily skin. We used Ultra Powder Foundation in Ultra Ivory just to set the foundation by using a brush instead of the sponge that it comes with. It’s also great to keep in your purse for touchups during the day/evening. To give her eyebrows a little more definition, we used our powder eyebrow pencil in Soft Blonde. Before we applied eye shadow, we prepped the eyes with our eye shadow primer. The primer moisturizes the lids, keeps the eye color from creasing or fading, and makes the colors really pop! We used four eye shadow colors. First, on the lid only, we used Lavender Ice. Then in the crease with an upward motion, we used Buff. Next we used Oyster at the brow bone for a highlighter. Finally, to add drama, we used Aubergine in the outer 12
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corner. We also used Aubergine as a liner on the lower lid in the outer third of the eye only. The rest of the lower lid is lined with Lavender Ice; blending in with the Aubergine. Then lower water line is lined with our Cream waterproof eye liner in Black and the upper eye is lined using a Soft touch waterproof eye liner pencil in Blackout. The mascara we used is our newest mascara. It is called Fatlash and it does exactly what the name says. Lashes love this new mascara! We lightly used a bronzer in a “3” motion going from her temples to cheeks to jawline to give her a slight sun glistened look. The bronzer used is called Poolside. For her cheeks, we used our new liquid blush in Bloomin’ from the apple of the cheek — blending softly towards the top of her ears. To add a pop of a slightly different color on the cheeks, we used our powder blush in Razzle Dazzle just on the apple of the cheeks. Then we used our limited edition highlighter in All-aGlow on the temples and above the blush to give a soft radiant glow. On her lips, we used a long wearing liquid lipcolor in Drama Queen. To add a slight glisten, we added a drop of our Lip Polish in Razzle Dazzle just to the center of the bottom lip. To set the look, we used our Expert Touch Finishing Spray to help all of the makeup stay fresher, longer.
HAVE YOUR
Christopher Barr Photography 2012. © 2013 Merle Norman Cosmetics, Inc.
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Don’t be a
JUDGER THE ART OF NOT JUDGING. We live in a world full of judges. Although we know we are not supposed to judge we have slang sayings about judging. My favorite is, she thinks she’s all that and a bag of chips. I’m sorry, but I do think that’s funny. But seriously we watch television that tell us it’s just fine to judge people. Our music, clothes, hair, makeup,our cars, even our jewelry puts us into categories for the judgemental person. Nothing and nobody is safe. For the person that is being judged, here is your verse for the day: Romans 12:2 “Don’t be conformed to this world, but be transformed by renewing your mind, so that you may prove what is the good and acceptable and perfect will of God.” Which basically says mind your business, don’t worry about anybody else. Focus on God and His plan for you. He’s got you. So now that you understand where your heart should be when you feel someone or a group of someones judgemental eye staring down at you. Stay on His path. Keep your focus. You are fine. Enough said. Let’s look at YOUR judging side. Yes I said you. Get real — we all catch ourselves judging sometimes. Unfortunately it’s something we are kind of born into. Luke 6:37 “Do not judge, and you will not be judged. Do not condemn, and you will not be condemned. Forgive and you will be forgiven.” Now, Jesus is not saying anything goes either. We live in a world of laws. If someone is breaking the speed limit and gets a ticket, they might not like it, but they broke the law. Now to make it simple. If someone is driving down the road going the speed limit and they get stopped and are given a ticket because they looked like a person that was going to speed, well that’s a no-brainer — JUDGING. Passing judgement based solely on a person’s appearance is wrong. John 7:24 says it is foolish to jump to conclusions before investigating the facts. The facts are we can’t see someone’s heart, or understand their motives. So when you hear the words, she thinks or she feels, how exactly do you know that? Even if someone tells you how she thinks or feels, it’s best to let her say for herself how she thinks and feels in a conversation with somebody else. Titus 3:2 says Harsh, unforgiving judgement is wrong. We are always to be GENTLE toward everyone. So, my friend, get tough, stay the path of Christ. Do a self check. Keep trying to be the person you were created to be. Remember we ALL mess up from time to time, but don’t give up. Get back on track. Don’t be a judger and don’t worry about those that are. Hopefuly they’ll come around some day. 14
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APRIL
Money troubles, job problems, school issues, relationship conflicts and health issues can steal joy and take away peace. Daily quiet time can help prepare for trials big or small while finding peace in all things.
1
To speak evil of no one, to avoid quarreling, to be gentle, and to show perfect courtesy toward all people. TITUS 3:2
10 Remind them to be submissive
2
A soft word turns away wrath, but a harsh word stirs up anger. PROVERBS 15:1
11 you, that you love one another; just
Know this, my beloved brothers, let every person be quick to hear, slow to speak, slow to anger, for the anger of man does not produce the righteousness of God. JAMES 1:19-20
12 kinds of evil. 1 TIMOTHY 6:10
3
4 5
6
7
8
9
With all humility and gentleness, with patience, bearing with one another in love. EPHESIANS 4:2 Love is patient and kind, love does not envy or boast, it is not arrogant or rude. It does not insist on its own way, it is not irritable or resentful. 1 CORINTHIANS 13:4-5
to rulers and authorities, to be obedient, to be ready for every good work. TITUS 3:1
A new commandment I give to
as I have loved you. JOHN 13:34 The love of money is the root of all
13
14
Do not be conformed to this world, but be transformed by the renewal of your mind, that by testing you may discern what is the will of God. ROMANS 12:2 Speak the truth in love EPHESIANS 4:15 Whoever meddles in a quarrel not
15 his own is like one who pulls a passing dogs ears. PROVERBS 26:17
For lack of wood the fire goes out, and where there is no whisperer, quarreling ceases. PROVERBS 26:20
But we were gentle among you like a nursing mother taking care of her own children. 1 THESSALONIANS 2:7
16
But as for you, Man of God, Pursue righteousness, godliness, faith, love, steadfastness, gentleness. 1 TIMOTHY 6:11
17 judgement on one another, instead,
Gentleness, self -control; against such things there is no law. GALATIANS 5:23 He has told you, what is good; and what does the Lord require of you but to do justice, and to love kindness, and to walk humbly with God. MICAH 6:8
Therefore let us stop passing
make up your mind not to put a stumbling block or obstacle in the way of a brother or sister. ROMANS 14:13
18
Therefore as we have opportunity, let us do good to all people, especially to those who belong to the family of believers. GALATIANS 6:10
20 Love is not rude, it is not selfish, it is not easily angered, it keeps no record of wrongs. 1 CORINTHIANS
Dear children, let us not love with
21 words or tongue, but with actions and in truth. 1 JOHN 3:18 Love must be sincere. Hate was
22 is evil, cling to what is good. ROMANS 12:9
Love your neighbor as yourself.
23 There is no commandment greater than this. MARK 12:31 Be completely humble and gentle,
24 be patient, bearing with one
another in love. EPHESIANS 4:2 Hatred stirs up conflict, but
25 love covers over all wrongs. PROVERBS 10:12
Whoever pursues righteousness
26 and love finds life, prosperity and honor. PROVERBS 21:21 Commit to the Lord whatever
27 you do, and He will establish your plans. PROVERBS 16:3 Blessed are the peacemakers for
28 they will be called children of God. MATTHEW 5:9 When I am afraid I put my trust in
29 you. PSALM 56:3
May He give you all the desires of
30 your heart and make all of your plans succeed. PSALM 20:4
Do unto others as you would have
19 done to you. LUKE 6:31
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ROSE CARLIN (LEFT) AND KAREN LUNDBLAD SHOW OFF COPIES OF THEIR BOOK.
from
BITTER to BETTER “EMBRACE THE A.R.T. of Forgiveness & Repentance” is a recently published book by two local Bluffton authors, Rose Carlin and Karen Lundblad. Originally from Pittsburgh, PA, these long time friends met 20 years ago when their daughters were second grade classmates. They started talking then and both admit they haven’t stopped yet. For the past two years, this first time author duo has been sequestered in a “writing cave” for a season of intense focus as they prepared this inspirational message for publication. Rose and Karen agree that their endless hours of labor were worth the effort as their “baby” was birthed. They received much encouragement and many prayers from family, friends, and pastors to deliver a “how-to” forgive manual because the need was great. The FedEx driver who delivered the first 1,000 copies confirmed this need. As she unloaded box after box and asked the title of the book, she immediately took out her wallet wanting to be the very first to buy a copy. She said, “Keep the change because this message needs to get out there!”
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Cutting through empty clichés like ‘forgive and forget’ and the oversimplified advice ‘let it go’ they provide obtainable and sustainable solutions for the areas of your life where it has been hard to forgive. “Embrace the A.R.T. of Forgiveness and Repentance” is a dual story. You will read of Rose’s victory over disease, divorce, and personal destruction. As she invited God into her forgiveness equation, her health was restored, her relationships, and her future. Her story is only one of the many true stories contained in the book. You will also read the story of a 3-step prayer that has brought life changing transformation to thousands of people. Prayer scripts are provided for immediate use when an offense occurs. Why? Because the authors believe that knowledge without an opportunity for application is like a car without fuel — it gets you nowhere. The prayer scripts are the fuel for a successful transformational journey from Bitter to Better. The prayers extinguish the damaging effects of bitterness and anger on your health and in your relationships that occurs when you get offended, disappointed, rejected, embarrassed, abandoned, hurt, mad, or even just aggravated. The authors present their book as a “tool of transformation” as they provide detailed explanations for the three major action steps of the prayer, identified by the easy to remember acronym ART. Cutting through empty clichés like “forgive and forget” and the over simplified advice “let it go” they provide obtainable and sustainable solutions for the areas of your life where it has been hard to forgive. Supported by over 200 scriptural references, 60 inspirational quotes, and powerful real stories, they invite you to join them as they guide you on a forgiveness journey you will never regret. Rose and Karen pray that you will be inspired to make Forgiveness & Repentance a work of ART in your life. As founders of Embrace the ART ministries, a 501c3 established to ignite a revival of forgiveness, they are committed to educate, equip, and encourage readers, small group studies, and conference attendees to Embrace the heart of God and Choose2 Forgive. Order your copy today at: www.embracetheart.org.
Celebrate Spring with Lady Lowcountry! The April launch party for Lady Lowcountry magazine will be held from 10 a.m. to noon Saturday,April 30th at the Holiday Inn Express in Bluffton.
EVENT DETAILS Like us at Lady Lowcountry on Facebook to learn more about this event.The day will be filled with fashion shows, hair shows, makeup shows, jewelry shows, educational talks and demonstrations from our advertisers. Learn new techniques.Try out new products. Find out what’s new for Spring.
ENTER TO WIN! Lady Lowcountry’s fashion extravaganza begins when you receive your magazine and ends April 27th. See our Lady Travels page to enter the contest for April. Come to the launch party — the winner, or winners, will be announced there and on Lady Lowcountry magazine on Facebook.The grand winner will be featured in the May issue of Lady Lowcountry magazine. Have fun! We look forward to seeing you at the April launch.
April 2016
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ACTIVE in Body & Spirit
Name: Mitzi Hawley How long in area: 4 years Professional experience: Flight Attendant for American Airlines in my early 20s. Married and was a Stay at Home Mom for 18 years. Divorced and went back into the workforce. Became a receptionist for an Optical Place. Later went to work at a Lumber Company and did Human Resources — mainly working with health insurance. Why did you move here? Husband retired from the Commonwealth of PA after 32 years and we wanted to come south to get out of the cold and snow and soak up the sunshine. I was raised in Texas and a southern girl at heart. Why are you fit now? Mainly swimming and tennis but I also golf. Fitness journey: Have been swimming since I was 3 years old and love being in water more than anywhere. Have struggled with my weight all my life! and have been on a roller-coaster with my weight for as long as I can remember! I have lost and regained 20 - 30 pounds at least 5 times. Not to mention the 10-15 pounds constantly over my life. Started Weight Watchers on July 31st (3rd time) 6 years ago — this time determined to maintain — or in other words change my eating habits. Have kept the weight off even when my lifestyle changed and we retired here. Keep track of my points and stay accountable — it is easy now...it has become a way of life not a diet — I always watched what I ate and tried to make good choices but until you research it you think certain foods are good and healthy and you are making a good choice BUT once I went to WW meetings and weighed in every week and totally got on board (not just the diet part) did I even realize most of the choices I was making were wrong and I thought I was sacrificing! when I could have been eating the things I really wanted just had to know which were which and how much was a portion. Lifestyle now/fitness routine: I swim laps 3-5 times a week. (72 lengths = 1 mile) I do synchronized swimming with a group in Sun City and it is the most enjoyable thing I do! I have learned tennis in the last year and love it more than golf and if I can not be in the pool I prefer to be on the tennis court! Love doing drills and playing games! I have never played before and can not believe how much I love it! I still enjoy playing golf and actually I enjoy it more now that I am not 18
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April 2016
PHOTOS BY TOM KORBUTT
stressing myself out over trying to get my handicap down! I learned golf when I moved here 4 years ago and now really enjoy playing socially. What keeps you going? The more I do the better I feel!!! The healthier I am the stronger I feel. I feel the best I have felt in years! I have time to do more exercise and play all the time now that I am retired. Who do you attribute this to? Everyone that encourages me! Learning from the past... Results of healthy lifestyle spiritually/physically: I have great peace and joy! I have a personal relationship with the Lord Jesus Christ and it keeps me from extreme highs and lows for the most part. I love studying the bible and its practical application in my life. I love to share that with others...I love to tell the story! And I love daily devotions that keep me focused there! I like sharing in small groups with people who want to learn and share — not speak “Christianize” but get “real” and share and grow with one another. I am always learning new things about myself and others and am so glad God is still stretching me and growing and teaching me! Encouraging words for others on life’s journey spiritually/physically: No matter what circumstances you find yourself in the only thing you have control over is your attitude. Others are watching. You can not change others but you can change yourself...you can not mend your broken heart but God can - Ps. 23:3 He restores my soul…And he really does do that! I am living proof! Keep it simple and move forward! Learn from the past but do not stay there! or hold on to the things that will keep you from living this moment with joy and peace... Challenge to take action for others this new year: Be a better listener and encourager — this has been a work in progress for many years!
NEW 30 minute classes including: Exercises to improve balance, stability and core strength Strength training focusing on arms, core and legs NEW 30 minuteMovements classes including: designed
to both NEW 30 minute classes including: stretch and strengthen Exercises to improve balance, stability and core yourstrength muscles Exercises to improve balance, 30 minute classes including: Strength NEW training focusing on stability and core strength Total body workouts N arms, coreExercises and legs to improve balance, moEvW es with Jillian Michaels stability and core strength Strength training focusing on Movements designed to both arms,training core and legson stretch andStrength strengthen focusing your muscles arms, core and legs
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Bluffton, SC 29910 Movements designed OUR ENROLLMENT FEE! *to both * Enrollment fee and monthly fees vary by location. Offer expires 12/31/15 and requires joining same day as 8 4 3 . 7 0 6 . 2 8 4 4 first visit for a minimum 12-month recurring billing contract. Valid for new Curves members only. Not valid stretch and strengthen with any other offer or discount. Valid at participating location only. Classes and Jillian Michaels workouts * Enrollment fee and monthly fees vary by location. Offer expires 12/31/15 and requires joining same day as by location and only offered at participating locations. No cash value. firstscheduled visit for a minimum 12-month recurring billing contract. Valid for new Curves members only. Not valid your muscles with any other offer or discount. Valid at participating location only. Classes and Jillian Michaels workouts (
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Total body workouts N April 2016 LADYLOWCOUNTRY.COM moEvW es with Jillian Michaels
first visit for a minimum 12-month recurring billing contract. Valid for new Curves members only. Not valid ) © 2015 CURVES INTERNATIONAL, INC. ( 1501 with any other offer or discount. Valid at participating location only. Classes and Jillian Michaels workouts scheduled by location and only offered at participating locations. No cash value. © 2015 CURVES INTERNATIONAL, INC. ( 1501 )
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Holiday Inn Holiday Express Inn &Express Suites &&Suites Holiday Inn Express Suites Hilton Head Hilton at Bluffton Head Hilton HeadatatBluffton Bluffton 35 Bluffton Road 3535Bluffton BlufftonRoad Road Bluffton, South Carolina Bluffton, 29910 South Bluffton, SouthCarolina Carolina29910 29910 (843) 757www.hiexpress.com/blufftonsc -2002 (843)757757-2002 www.hiexpress.com/blufftonsc www.hiexpress.com/blufftonsc 757-2002 (843) 757 757
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menities & Services Amenities Amenities& &Services Services What’ ’s Nearby What’ ’s’sNearby What’ Nearby What What What Free Hot Breakfast Free BarHot Bar Free HotBreakfast Breakfast Bar .Heyward House .Heyward .HeywardHouse House Free WIFI Free FreeWIFI WIFI.Hilton Head Beaches .Hilton Beaches .HiltonHead Head Beaches Business Center Business BusinessCenter Center ) .IJGA(Special Rate ) ) .IJGA (Special Rate .IJGA (Special Rate Fitness Center Fitness FitnessCenter Center .USC Beaufort .USC .USCBeaufort Beaufort Outdoor Pool Outdoor OutdoorPool Pool .Hospitals .Hospitals .Hospitals Pet Friendly Pet PetFriendly Friendly Parris Island Parris ParrisIsland Island
at’ ’s’sNearby What’ Nearby at’s Nearby What’ What What Don’ Don’ ’t Without Don’ ’Leave t LeaveBluffton BlufftonWithout Without Don’t Leave Bluffton Don Don arget & Starbucks .Target .Target& &Starbucks Starbucks .Harbor Town Lighthouse .Harbor .HarborTown TownLighthouse Lighthouse anger Outlets 1.Tanger &.Tanger 2 (80+stores) Outlets Outlets1 1& &2 2(80+stores) (80+stores) .Dolphin Cruise .Dolphin .DolphinCruise Cruise im N Nicks BBQ .Jim .JimN NNicks NicksBBQ BBQ .Outlet Shopping .Outlet .OutletShopping Shopping Giuseppi’s Pizza.Giuseppi’s &.Giuseppi’s Pasta Pizza Pizza& &Pasta Pasta .Historic Tours .Historic .HistoricTours Tours he Brick Chicken .The Brick Chicken .The Brick Chicken .Bicycling the island .Bicycling .Bicyclingthe theisland island ersey Mikes .Jersey .JerseyMikes Mikes .Sunset sails .Sunset .Sunsetsails sails Dick’s Sporting .Goods Dick’s . Dick’sSporting SportingGoods Goods
April 2016
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15 squats, 20 curls, 10 triceps plus 5 more
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15 squats, 20 curls, 10 triceps plus 5 more
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15 squats, 15 20 curls, 5 triceps Halfway there. How are you feeling? Listen to your body.
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Each time you work your muscles remember to relax and stretch and cool down before showering. You did a great job. Keep up the good work!
15 squats, 20 curls, 10 triceps plus 5 more
15 squats, 20 20 curls, 10 triceps Ten days to go. You are doing great. Stay on the path.
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Last month Jenn Schmidt worked your lower body. Are you still feeling the burn? If you missed it, you can look on Lady Lowcountry facebook to see what she did last month.This month we want you to continue working your lower body and add your upper body. Are you ready for the challenge? Your upper body, especially your arms, are very important to keep fit. Strengthening and toning your arms will not just make you look better in sleeveless clothing but make you feel better and stronger, not to mention the circulation and metabolism benefits. OK, ready? Stand feet shoulder width apart to protect lower back, slow and controlled movements, don’t hold your breath — breathe , breathe.These can be done empty handed, with a can of veggies in each hand or weights.Your preference.
April MOVIN’ ON UP
10 squats, 20 curls
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WORKOUT PLAN
Dail
VALENTINE for Africa by JONI VANDERSLICE MY HUSBAND, DR. RICK VANDERSLICE, first went to Africa with our church, St. Lukes of Hilton Head in 2006. He fell in love with the people of Tanzania and the entire experience. Through God’s hand, he was able to practice medicine and loved serving the people there. He continued to go each year with the St. Lukes group. He asked me to go and after some cajoling, I joined him on a trip in 2009. I also left Tanzania with the same heart for the country and the people. Through a friendship with Archbishop Valentine Mokiwa, we were able to see the ministries of the Anglican Diocese and to hear of the vision that God had given him to serve the orphans of Dar es Salaam. We left Tanzania with the goal of building an orphanage planted in our hearts as well. This past July, we saw our dream become a reality as the Valentine Children’s Home opened with 19 children, age 3-7. Some were abandoned as children, lost their parents in childbirth, to Malaria, AIDS or other diseases. They came to us
without any structure in their life. Living with these children are 3 “Mamas,” the caregivers for the children, who have gently guided these children, creating a structure, normalcy, and a loving environment in which they can flourish. A teacher is with them daily, teaching them English, readying them for school outside their home. Meanwhile, the children have formed a community, a family and have grown beyond our expectations. Local people, businesses, and churches have gotten involved, making these children feel like a blessed part of the greater community. Our local Van Landingham Rotary club spearheaded an initiative, along with many other rotary clubs in SC and a rotary club in Dar es Salaam as well, to build a deep filtered well for the property. A chickenry has been built where chickens are grown, sold, and provide protein for the children. Goats for milk, mango trees and crops that are tended by the children are also a part of the daily life at the Valentine Children’s Home.
Joni Vanderslice is co-founder of The Valentine Project, and President and Owner of J Banks Design 22
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April 2016
The connection that I have and my family has with these children is far beyond anything that I could have ever imagined. When we are lauded for this work, I can only think of how blessed we are that God has given us this opportunity and of the many instance in which he opened doors which we never could have opened. Our lives will never be the same because of these people and these children. We long to see them and cherish every photo and story that is sent to us. With two teenage daughters, it is beyond a delight to see the purpose and faith that this process and these children have given them. They accompanied us on a trip in 2011. On this trip, they visited orphanages with us, distraught over the fact that adoption is not an option in Tanzania and that the government does not support orphanages. One of my daughters connected with a young girl named Loveness at one of the orphanages. They played the entire time that we were visiting and she did not want to leave her, crying as we left. We could not stay in touch with Loveness, but she became Grace’s heart for orphans. When we arrived this past summer for the opening, we learned that our local committee in Africa, who had chosen the children for The Valentine’s Home, had chosen Loveness‌the very girl that we had met in 2011. They did not know of this connection. We all knew at that moment that God knew this all along and used this to show us his compassion and his sovereign plan for all time. We are looking forward to returning this summer to see these children, along with a team of approximately 30 people. We will have a Vacation Bible School for the children and a Sports Camp. We are now beginning work on an infirmary building and hope to continue with another home for 20 additional children by fall.
www.valentineproject.org April 2016
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S P E C I A L
P R O M O T I O N A L
E D I T O R I A L
Give Your Investment Portfolio a ‘Spring Cleaning’ Now that spring has officially sprung, you might look around your home and decide it’s time for some sprucing up. But you don’t have to confine your efforts to your house and yard — you can also engage in a little “spring cleaning” in your investment portfolio. Here are a few suggestions for doing just that: • “Dust off” your investment strategy. Dusting is a big part of spring cleaning. Light fixtures, shelves, windowsills — they can all acquire layers of dust and grime that need to be whisked away. And if you’ve left your investment strategy unexamined for a long period, it too may need to be “dusted off” and reevaluated. Over time, your financial goals, family situation and even risk tolerance can change, so it’s a good idea to review your overall strategy to make sure it’s still appropriate for your needs. • Get rid of “clutter.” Once you start tidying up your house, you might be surprised at all the “duplicates” you find — a broom in a bedroom, another broom in the laundry room, a third in the garage, and so on. Just as you probably don’t need multiple brooms, so you may find that you have many versions of the same type of investment in your portfolio. If you own too many of the same investment, and a market downturn affects that particular asset, your portfolio could take a big hit. You may be better off by selling some of the too-similar investments and using the proceeds to diversify your holdings. (However, while diversification can reduce the impact of volatility on your portfolio, it can’t guarantee profits or protect against loss.) • Remove “stains” on your portfolio. As you clean your carpets and furniture, you might notice some stains that should be removed. And
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April 2016
when you look through your portfolio, you might find some “stains” in the form of chronically underperforming investments. Instead of holding on to these vehicles with the hope that they will eventually turn around, you might consider selling them and using the proceeds to purchase new investments, which can help fill any gaps you may have in your holdings. • Consolidate your accounts. Have you ever discovered a stapler in one drawer, a roll of tape in the linen closet and a bunch of marking pens on your desk? All these items may be useful, but for the sake of efficiency (and to cut down on frustrating searches), you might want to consolidate them in one place. And you could do something similar with your investments. Specifically, if you have some stocks here, a couple of certificates of deposits there, and some IRAs at still another place, you might consider consolidating them with one financial services provider. With all your investments in one place, you could possibly reduce the fees and paperwork associated with maintaining your accounts. And when you eventually start taking withdrawals from your IRA and 401(k), you may find it easier to calculate these required distributions if they’re coming from just one place. But just as importantly, when you consolidate your investments with one provider, you may find it easier to follow a single, unified investment strategy. So, there you have them — some spring cleaning ideas to help you update and energize your investment portfolio. And you won’t even need a dustpan. This article was written by Edward Jones.
S P E C I A L
P R O M O T I O N A L
E D I T O R I A L
If Your Taxes Aren’t Done Yet, Keep These Upcoming Dates in Mind by
JENNIFER MONTERO
Owner of Lowcountry Accounting Services It is that wonderful time of year when spring is in the air but we are all running around trying to make sure our taxes are completed on time. Some important dates to know: • Corporation taxes are due by March 15th, 2016. • Personal taxes are due by April 18th, 2016. • Extensions are also due on these days if you are unable to complete your tax returns. Extensions allow you 6 additional months to get everything filed. No need to worry — Accounting Services of the Lowcountry is available to assist you with extensions or your tax needs. If you have any questions please feel free to contact me at 843384-4909. As always, we are here to help you with no commitment to file with our office. We are here to answer all of your tax or bookkeeping questions.
TAX
TIME
Personal Taxes Business Taxes Payroll Taxes Sales Tax Other Monthly/Quarterly Taxes Bookkeeping Payroll Quickbooks Training And Much More!
11 Palmetto Pkwy, Suite 105 • Hilton Head Island, SC 29926
706-877-3574 LOWCOUNTRYACCSERVICES@GMAIL.COM | WWW.LOWCOUNTRYACCOUNTING.COM April 2016
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COUNTDOWN
to your big day
by HEIDI DALY
EVERY LITTLE GIRL DREAMS of a fairytale wedding. In order to achieve this, it takes a lot of planning! The most important job is getting the bride ready. It is extremely crucial to be organized when it comes to the personal grooming side of the equation. Planning for this begins 3 months prior to the wedding to ensure everything is perfectly executed. 3 MONTHS 1) A nutritional plan, including ample amounts of water. Equation for water intake: your body weight divided in half equals the number of ounces of water. Eg: 130 pounds divided by 2 = 65 ounces of water a day.
Heidi Daly is a Licensed Esthetics Instructor and Makeup Artist who has been a Hilton Head Island resident for over 31 years. 26
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2) Facials! In order to get your skin in optimum condition, locate a licensed esthetician who has a good reputation. Once you have found one, work with them to establish your skin care goals. You may want to be aggressive in the beginning and work towards a more gentle treatment schedule to nurture the skin. The therapist may begin with a good chemical peel and Dermaplaning (this is a manual exfoliation which removes the top layer of dead skin and also removes the “peach fuzz”, allowing a better base for makeup). Your therapist may suggest a April 2016
good home regimen, complete with an effective eye treatment to ensure your eyes aren’t puffy or have dark circles. Don’t neglect your lips! You want them to be smooth for the “I Do” kiss. I suggest equal amounts of avocado oil and raw sugar mixed into a paste and gently rubbed on your lips and rinsed off at bedtime. 3) Consult/Trial with Stylist and Makeup artist? Be sure to bring pictures of ideas so they have a good understanding of what you are looking for. Airbrush makeup is the most resilient, lasting up to 40 hours and waterproof as well as smudge proof and provides a flawless look. You may want to get lash extensions or simply use band lashes the day of. You may also want to purchase the shade of lipstick so you will have it for touch ups. Photograph your trial hair and makeup!
1 DAY 1) Get your manicure and pedicure 2) Get a massage 1 MONTH 1) Get Injectables and Botox to ensure there is no swelling or bruising and the effects are maximized. 2) Trial spray tan. Remember, you are looking for a “glow” and not a dark tan! The white of the dress actually reflects the light and makes you appear a little darker, so keep it natural looking. 2 WEEKS 1) Final hair appointment for cut, color and highlights. Don’t forget to get your groom in at this time as well! 2) Break in your wedding shoes so you don’t get blisters 3) Confirm hair and makeup appointments for day of wedding
1 WEEK 1) Final facial and waxing. Eyebrow waxing can cause swelling and redness, so it is best to do it now. 2) Teeth Whitening, for that beautiful “Mrs.” Smile 3) Cut down on salty foods and alcohol to reduce bloating. 4) Water, water, water! 2 DAYS 1) Spray tan. Remember to exfoliate and shave prior, not wear any lotions or deodorant and wear dark, loose clothing.
3) If a breakout should occur, puncture a Tylenol gel cap and administer to blemish. If the area is inflamed and red in the morning, place a drop of Visine to the area and use a good concealer THE BIG DAY! 1) Eat a healthy breakfast to sustain you 2) Use cold green tea bags on your eyes for 10 minutes to eliminate puffiness and dark circles. 3) Wear a button down shirt/robe so as not to disturb makeup/hairstyle 4) Get your makeup and hair done at least 4 hours before the wedding 5) Congratulations Mrs.!! April 2016
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Cooking Couture
For the Kitchen
Serving Your Kitchen and Tabletop Needs 843-785-7171
The Village of Wexford 3B, Hilton Head Island, South Carolina 29928 www.lecookeryusa.com Mon-Sat: 10:00 am - 6:00 pm
hargray
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April 2016
Strawberry
SWEETNESS Treat yourself to something delicious this Spring by LORENA BEST
Strawberry season came a little early this year. OK, maybe just for one week at Ottawa Farms this past February before one last final freeze. But seriously, what a treat to take the short drive over and pick a bucket full of sweet red ripe berries to share. My mom and I couldn’t help but pop them into our mouths as we washed them in our kitchen sink. Dreaming of March and April when more local berries would be plentiful. This month I’m sharing our family recipes for strawberry bread and pie that bring back memories of picking strawberries in my parents’ overgrown patch. How I took for granted of all those berries. I recall telling my parents that I was tired of the daily pickings. But my mom always said just think of all the wonderful things I’ll make with them.
Best Strawberry Bread Makes 2 loaves 3 c. flour 1 t. baking soda 1t. salt 1 T. cinnamon 2 c. sugar 4 eggs 1 ¼ c. oil 2 ½ c. sliced strawberries 1 c. chopped pecans Preheat oven 350°F. Mix dry ingredients together in a bowl. Add eggs and oil. Next, stir in strawberries and pecans. Spray bread pans with non-stick cooking oil and dust with flour. Pour batter into pans. Bake 1 hour.
Dail BREAD
Stuffed Chicken & Melted Strawberries
Strawberry-Basil Salad with Fried Goat Cheese
Serves 4
Serves 4
3 c. halved strawberries 2 T. balsamic vinegar ¼ c. stawberry jam salt and pepper 4 boneless chicken breasts 3 oz white cheddar cheese 8 large basil leaves 1 T. olive oil 2 cloves minced garlic Preheat oven to 400°F. In small saucepan combine strawberries, vinegar, jam, salt and pepper. Bring to boil then simmer until thickened. Keep warm on low heat, stirring as needed. Next, cut a horizontal pocket in each chicken breast. Slice cheese and stuff a layer in each pocket, followed by a layer of basil. Secure pockets closed using wood toothpicks. Sprinkle with salt and pepper. In large cast iron or ovenproof skillet, saute garlic in oil for 30 seconds. Add chicken and brown each side for 3 minutes. Transfer to oven, baking 10 minutes. Plate chicken on a bed of fresh spinach drizzled with melted strawberries.
10 ½ oz. fresh goat cheese 2 beaten eggs 2 T. water 1/3 c. flour 1 c. panko crumbs salt and pepper 3-4 T. vegetable oil 2 c. sliced strawberries 12 torn basil leaves sliced almonds for garnish chopped chives for garnish lettuce Create an assembly station with 3 shallow bowls. 1st bowl with flour, salt and pepper. 2nd bowl with beaten eggs, and 3rd bowl with panko. Slice goat cheese. Coat slices in flour, dip in beaten egg, then lastly press into panko to coat. In large skillet, heat oil to sizzling med-high. Fry approx. 2 minutes on each side. Drain on paper towel. To compose salad: Arrange lettuce, strawberries, almonds, chives, and basil on plates with goat cheese rounds on top. Drizzle with your favorite vinaigrette, such as balsamic or raspberry.
Lorena Best is a local Realtor for Keller Williams
April 2016
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S P E C I A L
P R O M O T I O N A L
E D I T O R I A L
‘Tis the Season for Lowcountry Allergies by LENORE LYONS KOSTOPOULOS HHC AADP — HealthSmart Ahh, spring time. The days are getting longer and the cold of winter is behind us. It’s a sweet interim before the heat of summer. Plant life is flowering and blooming all over. The bees are getting busy with their pollination activities and they seem to the only ones who are loving the pollen. Oh, that pollen! Besides covering our windows, cars and even the streets with a greenish yellow film, pollen allergies may be making you miserable. So many people are coming into HealthSmart with complaints such as: scratchy throat, watery eyes, runny nose, sinus pressure and cough. It can be a trying time for an allergy sufferer, ruining an otherwise beautiful season. So, what are non-drug options to help prevent and alleviate allergy symptoms? Local raw honey has been found by many to be helpful, about a spoon every day. It’s not known exactly how it works, but it’s
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suspected the small amounts of pollen in it assist to naturally develop immunity. Raw honey is overall very good for the immune system no matter what’s ailing you and helps alleviate sore throats and coughs. Bee pollen is another option. Besides being a powerhouse of a natural vitamin, containing almost every nutrient we need, taking small amounts has found to be beneficial during pollen season, as well as being an all around tonic and great for energy. The thing is, it’s best to start taking the honey and bee pollen 4 to 6 weeks BEFORE the pollen season starts, not wait until you start having the reaction. The same thing goes for the natural anti-histamines such as: the herb nettles (comes as tea, tincture or in in capsules); the bioflavonoids quercetin and bromelain; the superfood spirulina and vitamin C. So if you’re suffering this year, plan to start earlier next in your supplementation regimen for best results. What to do when you have symptoms already? The above remedies are still help-
ful and a saline nasal spray or neti pot is a good idea to wash out your nasal passages. We have a wonderful new herbal product called Breathe Free from a company called Rootology which will work fast to open up your nasal passage and alleviate uncomfortable symptoms. It’s good for all kinds of environmental allergies, including dust and pet dander. Good quality organic unpasteurized apple cider vinegar, such as Braggs, helps to reduce mucous production and cleanse your body. A great drink is a spoon of apple cider vinegar and spoon of local honey in water with a sprinkle of cinnamon. If you’re skeptical about how it might taste, try one of our cold Braggs drinks. Note: While all the remedies mentioned are generally safe, everyone needs to do their own due diligence when taking any new remedy, especially those with serious health issues or pregnant women. Mention this ad for a free sample of Breathe Easy while supplies last.
Monthl MESSAGE
Becoming
GENTLE by TERRI BILOTTA
Gentleness is not the way we speak or the clothes we wear but who we are inside.
THE THEME FOR APRIL IS GENTLENESS. We also have fashion week during the month. The following scripture is perfect: 1 Peter 3:3 Your beauty should not come from outward adornment, such as elaborate hairstyles and wearing gold jewelry or fine clothes. Rather, it should be that of your inner self, the unfading beauty of a gentle and quiet spirit, which is of great worth in God’s sight. So I love fashion, hair and jewelry. I love pretty things and it is okay. This scripture tells us not to place so much value on the outside that we forget the inside. To put it another way, who wants a beautifully wrapped birthday gift that is empty? So it’s awesome to want to look your best and enjoy pretty things. Colossians 3:23 says whatever you do, work at it with all your heart, as working for the Lord. So it’s important to look your best on the outside, and most importantly on the inside. This brings us to GENTLENESS. I have never thought of myself as gentle spirited. I am loud, outspoken and opinionated. I am aggressive at times… should I continue? I guess what I am saying is I am far from being gentle. So as a person that wants to grow closer to Christ, I started studying the definition of a gentle spirit. I learned my definition of gentle was all wrong. For starters I learned I needed to be slow to anger, hold my tongue, and not be argumentative. I set out to transform my life. I was going to be gentle, but it seemed the more I knew about being gentle, the more I saw myself fail. Day after day, failure. Gentleness did not come naturally for me. That’s when it hit me. I can read the Bible like a recipe book for successful admission into heaven or I can ask for the author of the book to take my hand and walk with me and guide me on my path. It’s working, although I fall off the path quite frequently. Regardless of where I am, the path is always there and my Lord waits there with outstretched arms. So enjoy this April issue of gentleness with fashion week as we journey together through life. We hope to see you at our advertisers during the month and during fashion week. Keep checking on Facebook for an updated schedule for the launch party and fashion day. God bless, Terri
PHOTOS BY ANN RAMEY April 2016
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ATTENTION SHOPPERS: You could be chosen as a featured makeover in Lady Lowcountry Magazine. Here’s how: 1.) Visit as many of Coligny Plaza’s shops as possible by April 27th. 2.) Ask the business representative to sign and date in the space below. 3.) Snap a photo and email it to terri@ ladylowcountry.com or bring this to the magazine’s monthly launch party on April 30th for a chance to win a free makeover and professional photo session with Allie Floyd Photography.
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1 Bennali’s 23 Frozen Moo 44 Mingles (and Christmas too) Store 2 Billy’s Beach Club/Bikes & Things 24 Hilton Head Candy Co. 45 Hot Daddy’s Sauce & Oil, Co. 3 Blue Moon 25 Gringo’s Diner 46 Boomerang Toys 4 Camp Hilton Head 26 House of Jerky 47 The Shell Shop Store Signature 5 Chico’s 27 Island Fudge Shoppe 48 Wax & Beyond 6 Del Sol 28 Caretta Coffee 49 The Bird’s Nest 7 Francesca’s Collections 29 Market Street Café 50 The Kangaroo Express 8 Fresh Produce 30 Piggly Wiggly 51 The Cutting Room 9 Frosty’s Closet 31 Rita’s Italian Ice 52 Hair & Co. Store 10 Island Girl 32 Roller’s Liquors 53 Traveling Chic Boutique 11 Jamaican Me Crazy 33 Skillets Grill & Café 54 Rita’s Barber Stylist 12 Quiet Storm 34 Steamers Seafood 55 Coligny Hardware Store Signature 13 Soma 35 Stu’s Surfside Subs & Suds Kiosk 1 Best Gift Idea EVER 14 Sun & Sand 36 Subway Kiosk 2 Best Gift Idea EVER 15 Tee Hut 37 Sweet Carolina Cupcakes Kiosk 4 Hilton Head Sunglasses 16 Tropical Styles 38 The French Kiss Bakery Kiosk 5 Temporary Henna Tattoos 17 Coligny Theatre 39 Vine Kiosk 6 Airbrush Creations 18 Big Bamboo 42 Carolina Tasting Room Kiosk 8present HHI Cellcoupon Phone Store urchase. Must at time of purchase. 20 Coligny Deli & Grill/The IceMust Cream Cone 40 Black Market Minerals present coupon at time purchase. Kiosk 9 of Taste of America 21 Earle of Sandwich 42 Coastal Sunglasses ovies Series. Not valid during Second Sunday’s Movies Series. .Kiosk esah uMovies p Embroidery fo emit tSeries. a nopuoc tneserp tsuM 10crH.H. Second Sunday’s 22 Frosty Frog Café Not 43 Coligny Kite & Flag Mustvalid presentduring coupon at time ofCo.purchase. 6/1/16. .seirKiosk eS s11eivANA oMPuzzle sExpires ’yadnuS dnoceS gnirud dStore ilavSignature toN
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LADIES LAW of the
KEEPING OUR COMMUNITY SAFE and orderly takes a lot of work, and Lady Lowcountry magazine has a deep appreciation for the commitment and sacrifice our area’s police officers and Sheriff’s deputies give to make the Lowcountry a great place to live. We had the pleasure to chat with several police women recently. Sgt. Laura Rutland, Sgt. Kelly Heany, Officer Lauren Brown, Officer Lindsey Gibson and Officer Carissa Branson shared their thoughts on working in law enforcement.
PICTURED: OFFICER LAUREN BROWN 34
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Q: What is it like when you tell other women who don’t know you yet about your career? Sgt. Laura Rutland: Typically they are surprised, and then I usually get asked, “You aren’t scared?” or “like, an actual officer on patrol?” In my response I have to withhold all sarcasm and explain yes, I’m a real police officer. Officer Lauren Brown: When asked what I do for a living I respond by telling them I work for the Bluffton Police Dept. Their response after that is usually “Oh, are you a dispatcher?” When I tell them what I do they are usually very surprised and say “wow I couldn’t do that, you must be brave”. Officer Lindsey Gibson: I can’t say I have had many discrepancies or negative responses towards my career, the majority of women have expressed excitement and enthusiasm as there is still a pre conceived notion about females in law enforcement. Sgt. Kelly Heany: When women ask me what I do for my career and I tell them I’m a police officer they seem excited to find out what it is like and most of them follow up with “I’ve always thought about doing it.” Officer Carissa Branson: At first, they might be a little surprised. It’s hard to tell whether they’re surprised because I’m a short, blonde female (and that’s not the image they have in their head for a police officer) or because I’m just like any other person to talk to (and, for some reason, they expected some other type of personality). I’ve definitely seen an improvement in people’s reactions, they’re much more comfortable with giving female officers the respect and authority that they’ve earned. Kids, however, are the funniest; “Are you a real police officer???”…. I sure am.
Sgt. Kelly Heaney
Q: What made you decide to get into law enforcement? Sgt. Rutland: I have always enjoyed the investigative side of law enforcement. I had quite the imagination growing up and used to make believe a crime and solve it. I also enjoy crime scene investigation and not all police officers have the patience for the tediousness that it involves but I could spend all day putting the pieces of the puzzle together. Officer Brown: I have been interested in law enforcement since middle school. It’s something I was always interested in and I knew this is what I wanted to do. Officer Gibson: Ever since I was five years old I wanted to be a police officer. I remember dressing up like one and playing cops and robbers with my older brother. For me it wasn’t hard to make the decision to protect and serve. Sgt. Heany: I began my career in public service back in 1996 when I became employed by Beaufort County and worked as a 911 dispatcher. I worked in dispatch for about 3 years which is where my interest sparked into becoming a police officer. Being a dispatcher is an extremely stressful job, you answer 911 calls and direct officers to where they need to go. Sometimes those calls involved children and would certainly awaken that motherly instinct inside of you. Even though I knew the officers did their very best to get to the calls in a timely manner I still had in the back of my mind “you can get there quicker!” So in March of 2000 I became a sheriff deputy with Beaufort County Sheriff’s Office. Officer Branson: My coworkers, hands down. I used to work at
Sgt. Laura Rutland
a police department while I was making my way through college and it was an awesome job; I loved going to work. I then worked in another field and quickly realized that it’s your coworkers and management that will make or break your experience at a job. I absolutely love the men and women I work with. I trust them, I respect them. And they are just really cool people, on and off the job. Q: What was the most difficult thing you had to get used to about being a police officer? Sgt. Rutland: The most difficult thing was having to grow up really fast. All of a sudden at the age of 22 I was thrown in to situations where I was telling people three times my age how to behave like responsible adults. Officer Brown: Moving dead deer off the road. I remember the first time I was asked to move a deer from the road and I thought it was a joke. I didn’t realize that was part of the job. Switching from day shift to night shift took some time to get used to at first. Officer Gibson: This question is tough for me. I can’t say I have had a difficult time getting used to being a police officer due to having such passion towards my career however it is very difficult to hear and see the negativity towards Law Enforcement. continued on next page
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Sgt. Heany: When I started in law enforcement I weighed 105 lbs. Most people don’t realize how much the gear weighs on an average but it weighs approximately 19.5 lbs. I also had a difficult time eating at night while working a 6pm – 6am shift so it was difficult for me to keep weight on. Officer Branson: Being nosy and assertive in your questions and actions. You grow up being told “Don’t ask that, it’s rude!” But, as a police officer, you have to ask certain things that are personal, uncomfortable, or just taboo to ask. I have to ask women how old they are. I have to know if two people are sexually involved (for Domestic Violence cases). I also have to be assertive in my actions. If a call warrants it, I have to enter homes without being invited. I have to search people’s cars and possessions, often with them staring at me as I do it. I have to search people, and that comes with its own share of awkwardness. Q: What is an average day like? Sgt. Rutland: Unpredictable. I never know what kind of call is going to come over the radio so you have to be ready for anything. Officer Brown: No day is the same on patrol. Some days we may have a few minor calls and other days we are slammed with calls back to back. You never really know what a day is going to entail. I am currently a School resource Officer so my days are a little more predictable. I am about to attend lunch, assemblies, recess, and read or teach to classes. I spend most of my day interacting with the students and staff. Officer Gibson: As I have learned average and policing never really go hand and hand with one another. This is not a typical 8-5 job and you are never doing the same thing every day which makes it a very unique job. Someone once told me being a police officer is like having a front seat to the best show on earth, you see people at their best and at their worse, you are who they call when they need assistance, help or someone to talk too, you are a counselor, a protector, a teacher or a lesson learned. Sgt. Heany: First of all there is no such thing as an average day in law enforcement which is why I believe people enjoy this career so much and can’t do anything else. It is what has kept me doing it for the last 16 years. No day is ever the same. Officer Branson: That’s the best part, there’s no average day! One day, I’m being pulled to call after call and don’t get a chance to eat for twelve hours. Another day, I’m just waiting for something to happen, somewhere to go. Some days I can just drive around and do proactive patrols of neighborhoods and businesses, putting my face out there and letting people know we’re around to help, if they ever need it. If somebody cuts me off or speeds past me on my off days, I’ll probably be conducting traffic enforcement my next day at work. Q: What is a common misconception about police officers? Sgt. Rutland: That we feel as though we are better than the citizens we serve. We’re really all the same as you, but because of the sometimes dangerous and tragic things we have to see and deal with we are closer than your average employees. My co-worker may have to tie a tourniquet around my leg to save my life one day. 36
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Officer Carissa Branson
Officer Brown: That we are jerks and don’t like to have fun. Some of my best memories since moving to Bluffton are from the police department. We like to have fun while working and make the best out of shifts together, especially on a slow night shift. Also, many people think we have a quota to meet on tickets, which is not true. If I stop a car it’s because that person was doing something I found to be dangerous and needed to be aware of that. If I just responded to a bad traffic collision because someone was speeding, I am more likely to stop speeder on that same road so that another collision does not occur. We see a lot of terrible situations and we do our best to keep those from happening again even if that means giving traffic tickets or looking for and arresting those driving under the influence. We want to keep everyone as safe as possible. Officer Gibson: We eat donuts and drink coffee or people see us as “Just because you have a badge and a gun you think you can do whatever I want.” I believe in today’s society there is more of a misconception of police officers than understanding and relating to us. Sgt. Heany: I would have to say a common misconception about police officers is that we all eat donuts! LOL. I think most people don’t understand how busy officers get in their daily duties and how many meals we tend to miss out on. Crime doesn’t stop at noon so we can all break for lunch so when you see an officer eating a donut it’s probably not our food of choice at that moment. Officer Branson: Right now, there are so many misconceptions about police officers and it breaks my heart. We’re not out to hurt people or abuse our power (most days it’s hard to believe that we have power with the way we’re treated). We don’t single people out just to get them into trouble. We want to keep people safe and, at least in my mind, I believe that enforcing our state’s and municipality’s laws is the way to keep people safe. I’m not at your house to harass you, I’m there because somebody called me and told me that I was needed. I’m not trying to bind you up on traffic fines (no, we don’t make commission), I’m trying to show you that the traffic law you violated could break a lot more than your wallet.
Officer Lauren Brown
Officer Lindsey Gibson
Q: Will you share some rewarding moments you have had while on the Bluffton police force?
than they realize. I’ve also been really lucky to have gotten involved in some awesome community programs (mostly involving kids) and those are also extremely fun and also rewarding. Being a good role model for kids is one of my favourite things about this job.
Sgt. Rutland: The most rewarding part of being on the Bluffton Police force has been gaining a whole other family. They have been an amazing support system while I dealt with military deployments of my spouse, and for us starting a family. Officer Brown: I started Bluffton’s Annual toy drive. The second year was the most rewarding. I was able to deliver hundreds of toys to children who weren’t going to get much for the holidays. The looks on their faces, the hugs I received and the pictures they wanted to take with us was so rewarding. If I could do something every day to get that same reaction I would. Being a School resource Officer at a Pre-K through 8th grade school I am able to interact with the younger kids a lot. If I know they are struggling with something I will sit down with them and help them. Officer Gibson: There have been several rewarding moments in my career thus far. One of my biggest goals is to come home every day or night feeling as though I made some sort of difference. Sgt. Heany: The most rewarding moment I recall is having two teenagers walk up to me while working downtown Bluffton. This moment actually came to me when I was seriously considering changing my career. You see, I had worked a case involving the two girls when they were young and it involved something that no child should ever experience. The girls walked up to me, and said “Do you remember us?” I looked at them for a moment and I did remember them by name even after it had been several years. The two girls thanked me and told me “You made it so we never had to go back there and we wanted to thank you”. That is when I knew in my heart that I was doing what I was supposed to be doing and would never be happy doing anything else. So here is my THANK YOU to those girls for keeping my head straight and staying on my path to continue helping others through what should only ever happen in a nightmare. Officer Branson: Every time somebody thanks me for helping them or for being a police officer, It’s a really good feeling. It means a lot more
Q: How do you balance family life with work life? Sgt. Rutland: You don’t really. I just try and make up for my absence on days off. I’ll take my kids to the park, or out for ice cream. I basically put everything else on hold and make sure I give them all my attention. Officer Brown: During night shift it is difficult to have a social life. Day shift is not so bad. I am single with no kids so that makes the scheduling a lot easier. Officer Gibson: Shift work, working holidays, staying on late calls, call outs etc. this all affects family life so balancing the two is very important and can be difficult at times. For me it hasn’t been as tough because my family is always first and is the most important thing to me. When I’m able to spend time with my family I cherish it and embrace every moment I have with them. Sgt. Heany: Balancing family life with work life is probably one of the most difficult things to deal with. In this profession the doors are never closed, it’s a business that operates 24 hours a day 7 days a week, and we stay open every holiday. My career has been very difficult on my children because I couldn’t always be there for those moments every parent shouldn’t miss. Even after all these years and now that my children are grown I still have my regrets about missing out on so much. Officer Branson: Not very well…being a police officer is 24/7 and it defines me in many ways. Just ask my husband! I can’t drive anywhere without calling out traffic violations or being recognized by somebody. As important as it is to leave work at work, it’s also really difficult. A rough day at work often follows me home. But doing something rewarding at work means I’ve done something rewarding with my life, and that makes up for it! continued on next page April 2016
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Q: What are some things you would like people to know about being law-abiding citizens? Sgt. Rutland: That it’s easy. I never understand why people choose to break the law, life is so much easier if we all just do what we’re supposed to and be responsible adults. Officer Brown: I have more respect for those who own up to their mistakes and do what they are supposed to do. Everyone makes mistakes but being able to admit that goes a long way for me. Officer Gibson: Just because we enforce the laws does not mean we have the right to break them. We are law abiding citizens just like everyone else. If we broke the laws and did not abide by them how can we enforce them, that’s hypocritical and would ruin your credibility and integrity not only towards yourself or department but towards society as a whole. Sgt. Heany: Don’t set yourself up to be an easy victim, make sure your valuables are out of sight and your doors are locked. Be aware of your surroundings, if you see something that doesn’t look right report it. If you witness a crime or have knowledge of a crime speak up and be heard. There are bad people out there and you speaking up may save a life. Officer Branson: I highly encourage the practice! But really, I don’t believe that people are either law abiding or criminals. We have career criminals in Bluffton, yes absolutely. But all people make mistakes; people have bad days. I get called on your really bad days. But I have to treat a first-time offender like anybody else. Please be understanding that I have to do my job. Q: What are some things you would like people to know about police officers that just happen to be women? Sgt. Rutland: That we are just like our male counter parts but can be better communicators. Female police officers tend to do better talking a subject down. I don’t like to divide us though and prefer we be viewed the same as male police officers. We don’t appreciate being called “baby” “sweetheart” or being told we’re “too pretty to be a police officer.” I mean, really? Officer Brown: We are the same as the male officers. We have learned to hold our own and to handle whatever situation we are faced with. We are also really good at calming down a situation before it gets out of hand. Most people respond very well to female officers. Officer Gibson: We are no different than others. We all go to work and provide for our families. Sgt. Heany: “Girls can do everything boys can do better!” LOL Officer Branson: There’s truly no generalized difference between male and female officers. Every officer has their own personality, so sometimes a person may feel more comfortable talking to a female officer, and another may feel more comfortable talking to a male. We also each have our own special abilities, regardless of gender. I know several females that are vicious fighters, and I know several men that are the calmest, most understanding people (officers or not) I’ve ever met. Another similarity: like the guys, female officers hate being called “Sweety”, “Hunny”, or “Cutie” (yes, people have called me that when I’m in uniform). When I’m in uniform, I’m a police officer first, female second. I expect to be treated as such. 38
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PICTURED: OFFICER LINDSEY GIBSON COACHES THE BLUFFTON JUNIOR VARSITY GIRLS BASKETBALL TEAM
Q: Will you share an interesting days experience with the readers? Sgt. Rutland: We received a call there was a small white pony running in and out of traffic in the roadway. It was one of those, “yeah, right” type of calls. I was wrong, there really was a small white pony running around. After about 45 minutes of trying to catch him we finally caught him. It turned out that his owners did not want him so I made a lot of phone calls and found a nice lady willing to open her farm to him until he could find a permanent home. I always enjoy happy endings. Sgt. Heany: I will never forget my first day on the shooting range. It just happened to be the first time I ever shot a gun, let alone despite my size having to shoot a shotgun. I gained the nickname “recoil” on the range because of the kick you get when firing a shotgun. Officer Branson: Every day is interesting, in its own way. Like I mentioned, the best part of this job is the variation each day we come into work. I’ve had shifts where I come in, get a couple of sporadic calls but nothing very interesting, and then, with half an hour to go in my shift, an armed robbery or some other hot call comes out. Talk about going from 0 to 100! It may be 4:00am but, when that call comes out, we’re all wide awake, ready to work and do what we have to do. Those are the calls and shifts I remember most, the ones that make me scared, excited, and proud at what I do all at once. I couldn’t imagine doing anything else.
S P E C I A L
P R O M O T I O N A L
E D I T O R I A L
Superior Helps HVAC Systems and Those in Need Coming home to a comfortably conditioned home at the end of a long day is nice! Imagine not having that privilege. This is why Superior Heating & Air, Inc, has decided to offer an awesome, and simple, way to give back. Most churches and synagogues need funds to help others in need. By choosing Superior, your much needed funds can be utilized to assist others in our community that are less fortunate. Starting April 1, for every customer, new and old, who chooses to invest in our maintenance program, completes a repair/service call, or equipment/ductwork replacement, and mentions this article, will be donating a percentage of their proceeds to the local congregational ministry of choice. So, now that you know to call Superior for your heating and air needs, let’s explore when to call. Ideally, before you come home from a long hot day to no air conditioning. Prevention is worth its weight in gold! A maintenance should be scheduled with Superior every 6 months. What does a maintenance visit include?
At Superior we change your filter, flush and clear your condensate lines, inspect all electrical connections and components, inspect your ductwork, check refrigerant pressures, check all system functions and safety, and complete a detailed inspection report, for your records. We will also provide a list of any recommendations, if necessary, that are found during our maintenance visit. At Superior, we want to be sure you are aware of the condition of your system and to keep it in good working order during the heating and cooling season. To ensure your HVAC system is ready for the long hot summer, preventative maintenance is the best way to catch any issues prior to them becoming a problem and your system being down. A maintenance does not guarantee that your system will not have any issues but it will assist in preventing many types of service calls you could potentially have — which saves you money! Also, having your system maintained keeps your equipment warranty valid. Without a regular maintenance on your HVAC system you void your warranty. You have
invested in your comfort, it is important to maintain your manufacturer’s and/or extended warranty. So, let’s say you have not signed up for a Superior maintenance program and you come home to find that it is cooler outside than inside your home. Don’t panic! We understand. You can call us anytime and our 24 hour response team will be there to help you and your family get back to cooling or heating as quickly as possible. At Superior Heating & Air, we are local and we are family, just like you. We want the best for our community, our customers, and our loved ones. You can rest easy knowing that you have had a part in helping others. By choosing us, you are choosing to be a part of our Superior family. A family that is going to make a difference in our community, together! We have kept our Superior family warm and toasty in the winter and nicely chilled in the summer for over 16 years. We welcome any calls, questions, or concerns you may have and we would love to make you a part of our Superior family.
Servicing All Brands
We Never Close 24-Hour Service with no overtime fees
Schedule a repair
Get a precision tune-up
843-682-2665
Book a free estimate
www.Superior.AC April 2016
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Motivated
YOUNG LEADER by LISA RICHARDSON South Coastal FCA WITH A LIST OF ACHIEVEMENTS like captain of Varsity Cheerleading and Basketball, Homecoming Court, National Honor Society, Mayor’s Youth in Service Award Winner, just to name a few, you might think Madeleine McDonald, would be prideful and boastful; but that is far from the person you’ll find this senior at Hilton Head Preparatory School to be. A Bluffton resident all her life, Maddie, as her friends call her, is a true Lowcountry Lady. She turns 18 just in time to vote for our country’s next leader this November. Having watched Maddie in action in some of her leadership roles, and with the presidential election on the horizon, I asked her how she strives to be good leader and what motivates her. “I try to be a leader by example. I’m (usually!) not the loudest or the most opinionated in the group, but find myself often in leadership roles because others know I will listen to everyone’s opinion and ideas, give careful and thoughtful consideration and then, gently guide. I was so inspired by the speakers/leaders that participated in the Chamber of Commerce Junior Leadership Program and work to put the leadership qualities I learned during that program into practice in my every day activities. I choose to have friends whom will encourage, lift up, and treat others with kindness.” “I am motivated by approval and appreciation from those I admire. Among those are my parents, Mark and Nanette McDonald, as well as many of the incredible teachers and mentors that I’ve been blessed to know. I am motivated by the idea of rising to the challenge and the sense of accomplishment that comes from achieving what others didn’t think was possible.” The Bible tells us that nothing is impossible with God (Luke 1:37). Something Maddie takes to heart. Faith is a main factor in her life. She doesn’t hide nor boast about it, but uses it as another way to guide her life and influence others.
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“I start and end my day with prayers of gratitude. I find myself throughout the day having an internal dialogue about where my faith should lead me. When I am faced with decisions, I use His word to face those issues with grace.” Which also happens to be her middle name. Maddie is a leader at her school for the Fellowship of Christian Athletes group, where she helps to lead prayer and devotions to encourage her fellow classmates to use God’s Word as a guide in their lives. I asked why she thinks teens struggle or why some put up road blocks when it comes to trusting in God. “I believe some teens are intimidated by the idea of God and HIS word. They view His doctrine as a stringent set of rules that can be frightening; they feel like they can never measure up to what they believe is asked of them from God. So, instead of failing, they reject.” “Some of the struggles teens face today involve social media, an entitlement mentality, substance abuse, and body image.” These are areas they can learn to navigate and overcome if they use God’s word to help instead of what their friends (sometimes hurtful and misguided words are). After graduation this May, Maddie plans on attending college. “I want to embrace all the opportunities that college has to offer in the hopes of finding a career path that I’m passionate about. Long term, I want to have a loving family and be successful in every sense of His word.” And of course, the age old question for this teen: If you had the opportunity to meet any one individual, who would it be and what would you ask them? For her, it is Angelina Jolie. “I admire her dedication to humanitarian work and would tell her that she is a true inspiration to other girls/women trying to create lives that have real meaning.”
INSPIRED EDUCATION Where Success Begins.
Congratulations Lady Stingrays! The entire Cross Schools Community of students, parents, and staff celebrates our girls’ basketball team! Our Lady Stingrays completed an undefeated season, including winning first place in the Ret Thomas “Shoot for the Cure” Basketball Championship and the St. Francis Catholic School Knights of Columbus Tip Off Classic.
Built Upon a Foundation of Excellence
MIND • CHARACTER • SPIRIT
Standing on a firm foundation of Christian values, Cross Schools encourages all-around excellence from academics to athletics, and community service. We are focused on building mind, character, and spirit in our students, from 18 months through 8th grade.
Now Accepting Fall Enrollment Applications
If you would like to learn more about Cross Schools and the opportunities available for your children, please visit our website at CrossSchools.org or contact our Directors of Admission, Alison Howard (Preschool) or Jen Kronimus (Kindergarten-8th Grade).
Admissions: Preschool: Alison Howard (A.Howard@CrossSchools.org) | Kindergarten-8th Grade: Jen Kronimus (J.Kronimus@CrossSchools.org)
495 Buckwalter Parkway, Bluffton, SC 29910 • (843) 706-2000 WWW.CROSSSCHOOLS.ORG
DOING IT ALL with God at her side
PHOTO BY ALLIE FLOYD
AVA KERSTEN IS A JACK OF ALL TRADES in the talent department! She can sing. She can play the violin. She can pirouette in circles around you. She’s a great student! But her biggest accomplishment to date is her displayed love of Jesus and showing His lost people that vision of unconditional love. Ava was born and spent her early childhood outside of Savannah, GA. Her mother, Stephanie Kersten, recognized that Ava was a very gifted child as young as two months old. Her babble was mature as her gaze was intentional. She seemed to know that she was destined for big things. In first grade, her mother relocated to Bluffton, SC and Ava’s love for ballet and the performing arts heightened. She attended Hilton Head Dance School for three years, which furthered her already established career in dance (since the age of 3). Showing an interest in violin, she started lessons a year ago and has excelled! Her violin teacher, Na You, is an award winning violinist and has been teaching lessons for over thirty years and currently plays with Hilton head Symphony Orchestra. Mrs. You is a very encouraging, devoted teacher who uses whimsical tactics and playful tunes to keep kids engaged during their lessons and also provides them with incentive-based prizes for a job well 42
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done. This has been very helpful in Ava’s growth as a violinist AND her walk with God. It is important to read your Bible and have faith in yourself and others. Ava attends the AMES Academy in Pritchardville and is a very determined student. She is an avid reader and loves almost every category of books! She asked for a Bible two Christmas’s ago and does a devotional every night before bedtime. Her favorite verse is Matthew 6:25-34, “…do not worry about your life…but seek first His kingdom and His righteousness, and all these things [food, water, clothes] will be given to you.” Ava is a do-gooder, people pleaser, teacher’s pet and all around good girl who doesn’t like to disappoint or be in trouble. This verse helps alleviate her worries! Her Christ-centered approach to life has also helped her with guiding her friends through troubled times and given them encouragement. Her family is very proud! Besides staying busy with school activities, Honors Choir and violin, Ava likes being home with her new puppy, Sandy Kate and her cat, Indigo (who inspires much of her artwork). Some of her favorite things are Mexican food, Littlest Pet Shops and crafts. She spends a lot of time playing with her baby cousin, Ronan, and seeing her family in Georgia.
Mameem & Maudie has just the thing to brighten up your Spring!
7 Lawton Street, Old Town Bluffton Open 10-5:30, Monday - Saturday Like us on Facebook
(843) 757-0786 www.mameemandmaudie.com
Unique gifts & fashions for women, men, infants and toddlers, as well as nostalgic & artisan candies and chocolates. We’re now serving tea & coffee so stop by and grab a cup while you browse.
Seasonal clearance specials PLUS exciting new arrivals for Spring.
A CROWN to my Husband or
ROTTENNESS
to his Bones?
by MICA KIANETSKI I SAT ON THE BED IN DEVASTATION with tears rolling down my face after I heard the words “I don’t love you anymore and I don’t know if I ever loved you.” My husband of three years and best friend was ending our marriage. We had dated for six years, on and off, prior to getting married and I thought it would never end. Until one day he decided he wasn’t happy anymore. How could he do that to me, I thought? We moved forward with the divorce. Time ticked and I began to heal. As I was healing, I looked at myself to ask “why?” I began to see that I was a terrible wife and I certainly was not following God’s commands for how a wife should be. I realized that I was not a crown to my husband, but was rottenness to his bones. I was selfish, rude, disrespectful and demanding. I had to have things my way. I did not consider him or honor him. This list could go on and on, actually. I saw that I was ugly and certainly did not want to stay that way. Proverbs 3:12 “The Lord corrects those he loves.” Discipline hurts! Looking at my failure and my ugly behavior hurt. But, I believe it will save me from another failed marriage. I’m so thankful for a God of second chances. He brought a wonderful man into my life, who treats me like a queen. Now I get an opportunity to be his crown. Wow, God, you mean you trust me with this incredible man? He’s so handsome, funny, smart, strong and kind. I don’t deserve him, but I will give it all I’ve got. This goal requires me to “put on” some new behaviors and for me it’s a daily effort. Proverbs 12:4 “An excellent wife is a crown to her husband; but she who shames him is as rottenness in his bones.” How can I be an excellent wife? Obviously this list can go on and on. But, I have chosen some examples out of scripture. Philippians 2: 3-4 “Do nothing out of selfish ambition or vain conceit. Rather, in humility value others above yourselves, not looking to your own interests but each of you to the interests of the others.” An excellent wife is kind and respectful. She is careful not to put her husband down, but is intentional in building him up. Ephesians 4:29 “Don’t say anything that would hurt another person, but only say what is helpful for building up according to their need, that it may benefit those who hear.”
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PICKING UP the Pieces by ERIN PICKERING ADULTERY. It cuts into the fragile and vulnerable places of the heart causing indescribable pain and trauma. It annihilates trust, destroys self-esteem and severs the bonds of love with the cold steel blade of betrayal. It is only a loved one, who was trusted with the deepest joys, fears, hopes and dreams that can hurt another so deeply. Porn, which by the way is adultery, can hurt just as deeply. It was the winter of 2012, only a year and half of marriage in, and I found myself barely able to breath, to think straight, and comprehend what my husband at the time had just told me: He was a Porn Addict and had been struggling with it before we were married and during. I will never forget that day. That day my life changed. I got out of the car, walked up the three flights of stairs, went into the bedroom closed the door, grabbed my phone, went into the closet and called my parents. My mom picked up, at the other end of the phone and I couldn’t speak. I fell apart crying with deep, heart rending sobs, repeating my name “Mom..Mom..Mom he is a Porn Addict. He has cheated on me….” The pain pouring out of me was more than I ever thought I would experience in a lifetime. At that moment I realized how much a person’s choices, lying and actions can inflicted an enormous amount of damage. All I wanted to do was run — and run to the ends of the earth. I wanted Peace… Not this storm that was raging. In the following weeks our marriage was like a category five hurricane. I would be OK one moment, and then something would trigger in an emotion and I would either start crying or go off on a burst of anger.
The married life I thought I was going to have was gone. Life became a volatile emotional roller coaster that I couldn’t fix, and in fact my presence made it worse; all I had to do was have him look at me and I felt dirty, and was tortured with the reminder of what he’d done. He couldn’t comfort me because he was the one who’d hurt me, and when he touched me physically, even if it was just holding hands, it was as if he was rubbing salt in the wound. What had happened? Peace? Where was the Lord? Why couldn’t I hear Him? These questions rattled around in my head like a section of a piece of music set on repeat. We had tried therapy, but it wasn’t helping. Therapy revealed that his problem wasn’t recent; he was 12 when he started looking at it. 17 years? The more I learned about this man, the darker my world got. I had married a stranger. My mother gave me a bible study called One in a Million by Pricilla Shirer. It was perfect for the storm. The study focuses on the following God in the wilderness after escaping Egypt. In those days, weeks and months, I clung to the Word like never before. I grasped the Lord’s hand with all my strength and decided not matter what I was going to stick by Him. I ignored what everyone else was telling me, because their voices just became loud clanging symbols in my head. I was learning the truth of Psalm 46: “Be still and know that I (He is) am God.” Eventually during the study, I came upon a passage that I grappled with for days. “The Lord our God said to us... ‘You have stayed long enough at this mountain. Turn and take your journey, and go.” (Deuteronomy 1:6-7). I realized in that moment, I was about to embark on a journey that was going to be alone, with God. My life was in shambles and I needed a fresh start. I relocated to South Carolina (home) and began the insurmountable task of rebuilding a life. I kept a journal, when I was down in the valley. I wrote everyday, full of thoughts, scriptures, and emotional rambles. There are times I pull one out and re-read the entries. Not to relive a painful experience, but to be reminded of how far God has brought me and that God is and was the Peace in the midst of the storm. My life today is blessed beyond measure. After a divorce, and being alone with God, Last year on Oct. 17th, 2015 at 5:30 pm I walked down the aisle for a second time. I walked towards a man, who was beyond anything I could have ever expected. There are times in our life, when have two choices to make. Let the storm or the impossible mountain overwhelm us, or we can set our eyes on Him, and experience the true meaning of His name Jehovah Shalom (the God of Peace). Personally, I choose to fix my eyes on Him. I choose to focus on the one, who even the wind and the waves obey His command. If you need peace in your life, I challenge you to fix your eyes on Him. When you do you will be amazed at what happens: You will look back and see God’s strength and His calming hand. You will experience a peace that will resonate and take root in your soul. April 2016
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A LOVE Worth Fighting For by LORI UNDERWOOD
MOST PEOPLE who go through the things in their marriage that my husband and I have been through, do not stick around in the same house to see who will be the last one standing. However, we were not always in a position for one of us to leave and go somewhere else to stay. At one point, I was in college, not working, with a nine year old to think about and 3000 miles away from any family so leaving definitely wasn’t an option. We would pass in the hallway each day and I would see his behavior unfolding all around me and, yes, ladies, I would do exactly what all of you would have done and that was to give him a piece of my mind with all the advice I could muster up letting him know how wrong he was and how he needed to change. I realized eventually that the more I talked, the worse he got and the more he pushed away. My quiet time started with learning how not to REACT to the things my husband said or did, but to RESPOND to them. One of my mentors told me that as much as I wanted my husband to change, God was more interested right now in seeing ME change the way I handled each situation and, in turn, the change in me would be the catalyst to HIS possible change. As hard as it was, even in the midst of terrible events, I learned to not lash back, or speak ill OF him or TO him. I even went one step further. I began to talk about him out loud when no one was around as if he was already the husband that God and I wanted him to be! (Romans 4:17) Proverbs 18:21 says, “Death and life are in the power of the tongue.” How true that is. I’m sure all of us were taught as a child if we cannot say something nice just don’t say anything at all. Our actions and behaviors are built upon what we think and what we say and what others say about us and to us. Once I really got that, I began to speak life, peace, joy, and healing into him and our marriage. There were times when I was so mad or hurt that I couldn’t say anything good so I said nothing at all. To be honest, sometimes saying nothing when someone acts crazy to you is scarier to them than if you fought back! They don’t know what to do when that happens!
PHOTO BY ALLIE FLOYD
I realized eventually that the more I talked, the worse he got and the more he pushed away. 46
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The last thing I’ll point out is that I had to be very careful not to share my story with just anyone. I wanted to make sure I was listening to God’s instruction and not people’s, sometimes misguided, advice in the name of love. It’s not something I learned overnight and it’s not something you stop learning. It’s a lifelong process. I would love to tell you that when I finally learned how to keep quiet that everything began to turn around immediately… but I can’t! Stay tuned for the next chapter!
Livingstone Ngong giving her all for
THE LORD
PHOTO BY ALLIE FLOYD
“WE ARE A SEED and we must die before there can be a harvest—that’s a beautiful thing.” Livingstone Ngong’s biggest desire in life has always been to never stop growing in The Lord and she prides herself in allowing Him to shape her in all of challenges that life throws at her. After all, that’s what dying to yourself is, right? — allowing The Lord to do as he pleases with our lives even when our carnal flesh says otherwise. Livingstone continually speaks these truths over herself every day and believes that in order for her to remain transparent and humbled before The Lord she has to continue to fight to put God and others before her own wants and needs. Born in Yaoundé, Cameroon, at a very young age she was introduced to the power of prayer and devotion. Her God-fearing and selfless parents paved the way and stirred her to desire to walk in obedience and fear of The Lord at a very young age. “Seeing my parents sacrifice their time fasting and seeking The Lord moved me, they were either working or spending time in prayer, they desired God with everything they had and I wanted that same passion.” Through the commitment in her parents’ lives, Livingstone was privileged to see where faithfulness could take her. “I remember one time when I was younger my brother needed soccer cleats, that night my mother had a dream that someone came to our home and sure enough the next day we were sitting outside and that same man from her dream came to our door and dropped off cleats for my brother.”
by JODI-ANN FISHER
“Dying to yourself is preferring others and the things of The Lord above my own wants, I haven’t fully mastered it but its something that I want to continue to walk out.” One of the most important ways that Livingstone dies to herself daily is committing to spend time in prayer and in the word every single day. “It’s never the same routine but I always fight for time with God throughout my day. Some days before I get out of bed I read my bible and pray, sometimes I turn on worship music at work (although not everybody has that luxury) sometimes I sit at the piano and worship, and sometimes it is in my car—but however I do it and whenever I do it, it still remains a priority.” “I’m not perfect, some days I miss it and when I feel the drawing I usually pull out my phone and jump into the word. I notice that when I don’t spend time with The Lord my thinking is more selfish and I feel my flesh arising. I start to compare myself to other people and battle with doubt — but I have come to the conclusion that time with The Lord shouldn’t be optional, it’s something that all believers should fight to pursue because intimacy with God brings forth wisdom to all areas of our lives and The passion to keep going.” “But seek first the kingdom of God and his righteousness, and all of these things will be added unto you.” — Matthew 6:33 “This verse is important to me because reminds me to intentionally look for The Lord in every situation to train my eyes to look for him in everything that I encounter — I trust him.”
Jodi-Ann Fisher moved to the Bluffton area after graduating from South Carolina School of Leadership. She attends Christian Renewal Church in Hilton Head Island, SC, and her heart is to lead people into true freedom through intercession and outreach. April 2016
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Sonja Griffin Evans is an international Cultural Gullah Artist born and raised in Beaufort, South Carolina.
Finding My TRUE PURPOSE by SONJA GRIFFIN EVANS
THERE COMES A TIME IN OUR LIVES when we begin to ask; ‘What’s my purpose?’ ”Why am I here?” These are questions signifying we are ready to explore our spiritual journeys. On our quest to finding the answers; we travel near and far, hoping to unveil the secrets which lie within all of us. Finding our purpose is essential to our very being. It allows our inner “little” light to shine brightly. When we discover our purpose, it gives us a feeling of being complete and whole. Just the mere thought of knowing that we have found the very reason why we were created, gives us a sense of inner peace. I am simply a Gullah cultural artist; created for the purpose of creating art to be used to direct people to Jesus Christ, a mere tool to inspire people to develop a personal relationship with Him. If we don’t know where we’ve come from, how can we possibly know where we’re going and how can we fulfill our life’s mission? Knowing who you are and whose you are is very important in purpose seeking and answering your calling. John the Baptist knew who he was. He was sent to fulfill a mission. John knew his purpose. He came to prepare the way for Jesus Christ. He was merely a voice of one crying in the wilderness. In the words of the prophet Isaiah, John was to “Make straight the way of the Lord.” What a great day in John 1:29! John the Baptist sees Jesus coming towards him and he says, “Behold the Lamb of God, who takes away the sin of the world!” He was faithful to God in fulfilling his purpose. He successfully fulfilled his mission. John prepared the way for Jesus Christ. His teachings continue to lead people to Jesus. While traveling along my spiritual journey, there are many things, events, people and places that have played integral roles in helping me to find my true purpose. I believe they were light houses positioned by God to help guide my way. The exploration of seeking purpose, teaches us how to walk by faith. Eventually, coming into the realization, that everything is in Divine Order. Our success in 48
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discovering that which we seek is based upon rather or not we follow the pathway that is laid before us. As I am fulfilling my life’s mission, I am always reminded of how important it is to not fail to entertain strangers; for at that very moment I may be entertaining angels. People strategically placed by God to bless me, or people to be blessed by God, through me. By doing so, I have met many diverse, genuine and caring people; travelers who are also journeying along life’s precious highways. It makes us realize everyone and everything has a story, a testimony of “How Great Thou Art!” The Bible says we need to have Christian fellowship so we can worship God with other believers and be taught His Word for our spiritual growth. Through fellowship believers can love one another, encourage one another, be kind and compassionate to one another, ‘spur’ one another, serve one another, instruct one another and honor one another. There are many destinations that I have experienced on my spiritual quest and would suggest you visit. ‘Destinations’ that have inspired me to give life to their stories, through my art. ‘Places’ that have spurred me to learn the art of life and led me on the path of truth. This is a goal which is the longing of every soul. While on site, I try to create art that reflect God’s point of view. Painting stories that have not only taught humanity, but have given an example to humanity, by their lives. Immortalizing with my paint brush, the divinity, an expression of the soul; which help me to find my purpose. Places that not only renewed my mind, which we should strive to do daily, but also helped me to answer my ‘Divine Calling’. Inspiring destinations, drenched in historical pearls of wisdom, which helped to unlock my inner light and understand my purpose. We are to tell people about Jesus Christ and “make disciples of all the nations.” This is why we are here. This is our purpose. Our seeking is truly about finding our gifts to carry out our Divine Purpose. Please join me on my spiritual journey monthly.
Time to be Seen? Carrying a wide Range of Eyewear
PAUL CILLI, LDO OPTICIAN More than 35 Years of Experience
843-686-4522
1000 WILLIAM HILTON PKWY • SUITE F-5 VILLAGE AT WEXFORD HILTON HEAD ISLAND, SC
About THE
COVER
GAYLE MILLER WATERCOLOR MAESTRO
PHOTO BY EDITH WOOD
WITH CONFIDENT BRUSH STROKES Gayle Miller tickles our imaginations with her fun and unique take. About Gayle’s paintings one of her admirers points out “Life would be that much more dull for the rest of us without Gayle’s art. There’s so much joy in watching the playful dance with style, color and emotion.” Gayle received her undergraduate degree in Business Administration and Management from the University of Maryland, but her favorite classes were drawing and graphic arts. As an adult her professional worlds of medicine and insurance took her to Washington DC, Maryland and California where her love of art brought her to Apparel Arts of San Francisco. At AASF, Gayle delved into clothing design and patterning. She found a second creative outlet – watercolor painting. She took watercolor classes in San Mateo, CA and Bloomington, IL, experienced plein air painting with Myna Wacknov in Brugge, Belgium, and worked with many talented teachers in Bloomington where she was involved in two art salons at the Eaton Gallery. She co-founded Inside Out: Accessible Art, a Bloomington, IL co-op gallery. Since relocating to the Lowcountry Gayle has been very involved in the art community, joining All About Art in Sun City, she is the Vice President of All About Art, as well as the Society of Bluffton Artist, SOBA where she is a board member. Her work is also shown the Art League of Hilton Head and the Beaufort Art Association. 50
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