Faith&Family Music Edition
FREE
AUSTIN
SEPTEMBER
2011
StraitMusic
Endured the Worst, and Still Offers the Best
PLUS:
A Christian nightclub that's fun for all Mysteriously, two can become one Instilling the love of music in your children
Please recycle or pass along to a friend
STRENGTH FOR THE FAMILY, HOPE FOR THE CITY
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Available at all HEB, Randalls, & Central Market locations in the Greater Austin area
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Septe mber 2011
Robert & Clint Strait
The Key to Resting in Faith
with Strait Music, An Austin Legend
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Helping Our Kids Through the Hard Times
Faith
contents
9 Body Life:
Resting in Faith--What is the Key?
10 Head to Heart: The Love of the Father
Instilling a Love for Music in Your Children
16
Fa mily
15 Practical Parenting:
Flickers of Fire- Walking with Children Through Hard Times
14 Little Passenger Seats--Don't Buy a Bigger Car!
23 Music is Austin, Austin is Music 23 Club Realm-Transforming the Norm
25 theRESPONSE 25 Rachel Keagy--Style Original 26 Mylon Avery & Silent Road--
Life
31 Ladies Top 10:
Simplify the Stuff
32 Erin's Cooking:
Grade School Flashback
33 Spend Life Well:
5 Things to Do in an Uncertain Economy
Health
35 Living to the Max:
The Wonder of the Nervous System
www.AustinFaithandFamily.com
Salvaging the Home Cooked Meal
17 Journey for Two: So What's a Guy to Do?
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12 Studio Kitchen:
24 child of the Son--
The Benefits of Musical Creativity
18 A Few Good Men:
Bring Back an Old Favorite
Special This Month
16 Helpful Hints:
Mysterious Math
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A Band Built Around the Word
It's All About Connecting
27 Why Jesus? 28 Strait Music--An Austin Legend 34 1equals8--You Can Save a Life
Monthly Favorites
8 The Source Directory 13 Rave Reviews 20 Austin Community Calendar 37 Cityscene
36 Healthy Indeed:
A Good Night's Sleep--An Impossible Dream? Join our growing online community at www.facebook.com/austinfaithandfamily Strength for the Family, Hope for the City
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Publisher 1633 Ministries 501 (c) (3) Info@1633ministries.com 512.584.6888 Editor Marcy Lytle Marcy@AustinFaithandFamily.com Art Director Abby Pound Abby@AustinFaithandFamily.com Advertising Sales Susan Stern| 512.773.3240 Susan@AustinFaithandFamily.com Kaylee Kolditz | 512.917.6984 Kaylee@AustinFaithandFamily.com Miranda Bradley | 512.924.3911 Miranda@AustinFaithandFamily.com Rene Dorsey | 512.573.5532 Rene@AustinFaithandFamily.com Contributing Writers Marcy Lytle, Ginny Hurley, Mark Trice, John Pound, Erin Osborn, Georganne Schuch, David & Lynn Cherry, Tom Coker, Al Jones, Gary Sinclair, Laura Bezden, Paul Tsui, Mike Giles, Joe Rodriguez, Raul Flores, and Deborah Begley COVER PHOTO Mallory Hamling Austin Faith and Family is committed to encouraging individuals in their daily lives by presenting the faith stories of others and providing information that will point every person, at every stage of life, to a deeper, authentic, personal and life-changing encounter with Jesus Christ. Views expressed in Austin Faith & Family do not necessarily represent those of the publisher. Every effort has been made by the Austin Faith & Family staff to ensure accuracy of the publication contents. However, we do not guarantee the accuracy of all information, nor the absences of errors and omissions; hence, no responsibility can be, or is assumed. All Rights Reserved. Copyright 2010 by 1633 Ministries 501 (c) (3). Scripture taken from the Holy Bible, New International Version, copyright 1973, 1978, 1984 by International Bible Society. Used by permission of International Bible Society. Austin Faith & Family PO Box 2496 Round Rock, TX 78680 512.584.6888 (P) 512.501.6760 (F) Austin Faith & Family is published monthly and is available at high traffic locations throughout the metropolitan area. Copies are also available by subscription, $35 for one year. Single issues available for $3 an issue.
Volume 3, Issue 4
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Editor's Note
Stressed? Rest...
I
know I’m biased, but our September issue showcases some great articles. We are just “too blessed to be stressed.” I like that phrase! An old hymn states, “Count your blessings, name them one by one…” If I count one by one, I’ll never finish this note, and you will tire of reading, but I would like to mention some of my favorites this month. “What’s a Guy to Do?” is a great article for the men in our audience, and “Flickers of Fire” offers advice for parents on how to walk with our children through tough times. This is such an encouragement – now that school is underway – for parents to be supportive of our kids! “Resting in Faith” is not only the title of an article, but it’s a good resolution for this school year for all of us. Read, and consider yourself blessed! Our cover story is about an iconic Austin business that has certainly learned to count their blessings – especially after the hardships they have endured. Strait Music is an example of a business “done right” and of how family members can work together and actually enjoy it! We are also highlighting a few musicians in the Austin area, so check them out. Club Realm is a Christian nightclub for all ages, and we’re happy to include information about their new and improved location – right in the heart of Austin! Stress can be high this time of year, with new schedules, expenses for school, and busyness taking its toll. However, if we take the time to relax and read some encouragement from the Word, or from great writers who love the Word, we might realize a place of rest from which we can live each day!
Letters
Marcy Lytle Editor, Austin Faith & Family
Dear Marcy, Thanks so much for including an article about the Conkerr cancer project in your latest issue. I really appreciate your spreading the word about our pillowcase project! I love reading your publication. God bless you! Dr. Jennifer J.
Marcy, I have a great story to tell you. An old friend asked me out for dinner last night. She was devastated and asked God for help, a sign and for encouragement. She works at a doctor's office as an office worker. She said a patient left and called her later. The patient said she was reading a magazine in the waiting room and it had a book recommended in it that she wanted to get (from “Ladies Top Ten.") She asked my friend if she would go look for it in the waiting room. My friend went and found it- It was Austin Faith and Family. She looked for the book review and found it: How to Pray for Your Adult Children by Stormy Omartian, and my name was there as the one suggesting it. The lady said she was going to get it because she was having problems with her son. My friend started crying and told this patient over the phone about her son telling her he had decided he was an atheist, and that she needed the book, too. This patient went out and bought the book for my friend (she did not know her) and brought it to the office later that afternoon with a note of encouragement. My friend was overwhelmed by the love and attention God was giving her. She also felt like she was supposed to call me because we hadn't seen each other in quite a while. We had a great dinner last night, and I got to add that I know YOU - the editor of the magazine. God is faithful...
Hi Marcy, I found your incredible magazine a couple of months ago. It is such a relevant read for all across the Body of Christ. Continued blessings on its outreach; may Christian businesses increase the advertisements to expand the borders of its influence. Sharon P.
Rayeanne O.
the SOURCE
connecting you to what God is doing in Your City
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-Children Services
Children at Heart 512.255.3668
A
www.childrenatheartministries.org 1301 N. Mays St. | Round Rock, TX
Camp Agape 830.385.8916
www.campagapetexas.org
Shape of Behavior Clinic 1.866.437.2165 www.shapeofbehavior.com
Hillside KDO/Preschool www.hillsideKDO.org 512.569.9019
B
The Settlement Home 512.836.2150 www.settlementhome.org
-Community Services C
churches
-Non-Denominational
Round Rock Area Serving Center 512.244.2431
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www.ServingCenter.org
Capital Area Food Bank of Texas www.AustinFoodBank.org
-Assembly of God C
A
-Baptist D B
Main Street Baptist Church 1001 South Main Street Georgetown, TX 78626 512.869-7854 www.msbchurch.com
Hyde Park Baptist Church 3901 Speedway, 78751 www.hpbc.org
E
Solid Rock Baptist Church 608 Ralph Ablanedo Dr., 78748 512.410.7458 pastorsrbc@gmail.com
A Church for the Deaf and Hearing
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Round Rock................................................512.310.1060 Pflugerville......................................................512.538.1152 West Austin................................................512.472.6339 South Austin...............................................512.445.5552 NW/Cedar Park/Leander...................512.250.5021 Eglin....................................................................512.661.8294 Georgetown..................................................512.868.9544 North Central Austin.............................512.453.2273 NE Austin...........................................................512.459.1122 SW Austin...........................................................512.364.6501
Meals on Wheels 512.476.6325
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Faith
Body Life:
Body Life Head to Heart
9 10
Resting In Faith: What is the key?
why it is so precious to God – why He responds to faith. He knows that we are giving Him the most valuable thing we have to give. And trust (faith) will lead us right into His rest. The book of Hebrews gives us a strong, encouraging word: “Therefore, since the promise of entering His rest still stands, let us be careful that none of you be found to have fallen short of it, For we also, have had the gospel preached to us, just as they did; but the message they heard was of no value to them, because those who heard it did not combine it with faith. Now we who have believed have entered that rest.” (Heb. 4:1-3 NIV)
I
t seems so elusive these days. We dream of it, yearn for it, try to plan for it, and even double up on work to make it happen. But when an opportunity for rest comes, whether in a vacation or a simple day off, we either wear ourselves out or anxiously look forward to what we need to get done when we get through “resting.” The simple truth is that without rest of the soul our bodies won’t get much real rest either. Rest isn’t a cessation of activity; it is more about being at total peace with God and life. It’s not the absence of conflict or the end of our work; rest can happen even during the busiest time. Real rest is characterized by freedom from things like anxiety, doubts, fear, rejection, and condemnation. It is being at peace in our minds and hearts. But how do we get there? Where should we look and how will we arrive at such a place? As usual, God has the answer. But most of the time His answers are a little different than what we might think.
yoke is easy and my burden is light.” (Matthew 11:28-30 NASB) Most “seasoned” Christians just read over those verses without thinking how radical they are. Notice that Jesus doesn’t say what most of us might expect Him to say – something like, “If you’re tired and weary, come and lie down in My green pastures, take My heavenly pillow and have a good nap!” No, He says, “Take My yoke.” The yoke is an instrument of work, not sleep. The secret is in to whom we are yoked. Jesus calls us to partner with Him, do life with Him, and enter into His work. He says, “Learn from Me – who I really am; for I am gentle and humble.” He is the restful One we need. Real rest is found in a relationship. And perfect peace is found in a partnership. His yoke has a little thing called grace attached to it. And God’s grace is real stuff – it is His enabling power for us to do His will. And guess what? Being in His will is the most restful place on earth. So He says, “Come, and yoke up with Me – and you shall find rest for your souls.”
Trusting God, His gospel (which means “good news”), and His promises allow us to enter into His rest. It may take some persistence, but releasing our concerns to Him, and standing on His promises is the sure path to peace and rest. And it is not so far away, nor elusive. You can turn to Him right now and enter into His yoke. Go ahead, let go and let God work. Rest in faith. John Pound Pastor, New Hope Community Church
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Now what is the key to receiving this rest? We receive rest the same way we receive anything from God – by faith. Another word for faith is “trust.” It is the currency of our souls, but much more valuable than money. That is why it hurts so much when our trust is betrayed. That is also
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First, He says the way to rest is to work. Say what?! That’s right, work. Listen to Jesus’ own words: “Come to Me all you are weary and heavy laden, and I will give you REST. Take My yoke upon you and learn from Me, for I am gentle and humble in heart; and you shall find rest for your souls. For My
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Faith
Head to Heart
The Love of the Father "You will never amount to anything!” “You are so stupid!” “Why can’t you be more like your brother?”
J
ohnny heard these words often from his father, but they weren’t the only ones he heard. When Johnny made good grades or had a solid performance on the baseball field, his dad was more than willing to let him know how proud he was. In the same breath, however, Dad told Johnny that he could have been better had he only done this or that. Whether positive or negative, Johnny had the same message from his father, “You didn’t perform good enough for my love.” Unfortunately, these are the words many children hear on a daily basis from their parents. The power of these words can cause destruction that carries on for much longer than the moment. They can even impact future generations. These words breed rejection, shame, and low self-worth, which lead to fear and performance-based love. Johnny learned to excel in most everything that he did; however, his motivation came out of fear of not being accepted by his father or anyone else. Even in adulthood, Johnny believed that he had to perform at a certain level to garner approval. As a result, this led to unrealistic perfectionistic standards that he unfortunately passed on to his children. Johnny loves his wife and children, but he never learned to show love without it being hitched to performance. This is what Johnny knew, and this is what he passed on to his children, who very well may pass it on to their children. Generation upon generation can be affected – if the cycle is not broken.
direct impact on how he sees his Heavenly Father. Johnny’s father was authoritarian, and his love was performance based. Johnny in turn believes that he must perform at a certain level in order to please God and receive His love. Because Johnny knows he can’t live up to God’s expectations, he decides that it is much easier to not have a relationship with God at all. Do you see the lie? Our father is supposed to show us unconditional love by making us feel significant, accepted, and secure. Johnny has experienced the opposite of this, believing that his performance makes him significant, acceptable and secure. Here is the truth: The Bible tells us that we are significant. John 1:12 - But as many as received him, to them He gave the right to become children of God, to those who believe in His name. The Bible tells us we are accepted. 1 Corinthians 6:17 – But he who is joined to the Lord is one spirit with Him. The Bible says we are secure. Romans 8:35, 38-40 – Who shall separate us from the love of Christ? Shall tribulation, or distress, or persecution, or famine, or nakedness, or peril, or sword?...For I am persuaded that neither death nor life, nor angels nor principalities nor powers, nor things present nor things to come, nor height nor depth, nor any other created thing, shall be able to separate us from the love of God which is in Christ Jesus our Lord. God loves us despite our flaws and shortcomings, so much that He sent His only Son to die for us. We did nothing to deserve this love. We could never do enough to earn it. The
Old Testament is filled with man’s failure to live up to the law because man’s performance will always fall short. The grace of Jesus, through His death and resurrection, opened up the door of love and acceptance regardless of our performance. Whatever the gap between your earthly father and your Heavenly Father, Jesus can make up the difference. If you have a cycle that needs to be broken, I invite you to experience the love of the Father through Jesus. If you need the help and support of others to move from performance to acceptance, I encourage you to seek help from a loving friend, pastor, or counselor.
Tom Coker Head to Heart Ministry www.headtoheart.org
How do we break the cycle? Many people respond by making oaths that they will never be like their father. Despite their best efforts, they can never meet the standard they have set. Even if they are tremendously successful, the debilitating mindset of not measuring up keeps them feeling worthless and unloved. Healing comes through experiencing the love and grace of our Heavenly Father and embracing the truth of who we are in Christ. This healing starts by knowing the Father. Unfortunately, the way a person perceives his earthly father has a
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Salvaging the Home-Cooked Meal
I
do all the recipe testing and development for my business, The Studio Kitchen. It’s a huge challenge and has given me some new insight into why people have trouble cooking at home. It starts with a good recipe. I start by looking at recipes in cookbooks, magazines, and online. I make copies or print ones that look good and then sort them and plan my cooking. If I need ingredients, I go to the grocery store – and this is the first challenge – shopping takes so much time!
Next, I start cooking and I follow recipes exactly. This is important, because if I find a good one, I need to expand it for my business and I need to know exactly what was used. Here comes the next challenge. I’ve seen websites where people rate entrees. Some are rated very high, but comments say, “I added more mustard,” or “I did not use garlic but added more onions…” So these highly rated recipes are no longer the ones originally published. Only about one out of five recipes I test finally make it to The Studio Kitchen’s menu. It means that 80% of what I prepare does not make the grade! I don’t know of many home cooks who will continue to be inspired after that many failures… One customer wrote to us: “I’ve been coming to The Studio Kitchen for 1 1/2 years now…This summer I had a lapse in judgment. I was off work and thought I could do it on my own. I collected several recipes and off to the store I went. After spending $200 + 8 hours in my kitchen, I made 3 full dinners. I was exhausted. My husband just smiles and wants to know when I’m going back to The Studio Kitchen so he can help with the menu selection…” The world around us has changed. There are so many restaurants and convenience foods that the “home cooked meal” hardly exists in original form. Nowadays people think that when you “open a can of this and a jar of that” the meal is “home cooked.” The truth is people either don’t have the time, the recipe, the need, or the inclination. And that is something I FULLY understand. There are some things that are simply easier to do with the help of a specialist. And for those who don’t have extravagant budgets, that’s why my business is here. If you have a good recipe – cherish it and pass it along. If you have an older family member who loves to cook, learn from them and teach your children. The home cooked meal is fast becoming a lost art, so let’s do what we can to salvage it. We are here to provide it. Laura Bazden The Studio Kitchen
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Divine Strategies for Increase by Steve Backlund
The title describes the premise perfectly, Divine Strategies for Increase. Steve Backlund divides his subject into two main sections. Part one gives 25 truths about spiritual laws, giving scriptural insight into what happens when these laws are violated. In the second part of the book, he shares examples of spiritual laws that are addressed in five ways. Simply written and easily understood, this book gives real answers and understanding to ancient questions about God’s laws and how the law of love supersedes all other laws. Ginny Hurley
The Complete Guide to Bible Translations by Ron Rhodes
If you are a serious student of the Bible or want to be, you might be asking the question, “Which translation should I choose?” Could one give me fresh insight into Scripture? Ron Rhodes goes through each version spelling out the particulars in an easy to read, interesting format. I liked his unbiased approach and I appreciated the simple way he described some very technical concepts of Bible translation. There is so much more to the history and development of our Bible. If you decide to take some time and learn about the version you read, or the one you are considering adding, this book would be a great start. Deborah Begley
Every Falling Tear Matt Hammitt
When Matt (lead singer of Sanctus Real) and his wife Sarah were expecting their last baby, the doctors discovered that he would be born with a serious heart defect. In addition to prayer, Matt turned to music to help his family cope with the challenges and pain they were experiencing. This beautiful album reflects the hope and peace that God provided this family to make it through this tough time. Bowen was born last September, and within a few days, had his first major heart surgery. He is now nearly one and healthy. Every Falling Tear releases September 13. Mike Giles
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little passenger seats Don't Buy a Bigger Car!
W
hat a novel, super, crazy, and resourceful idea… an extra seat for SUV’s for your kids! Little Passenger Seats is a company that makes them, and sells them. So what are they? How do they work? Are they safe? Are they expensive? Those are questions all parents have when first introduced to this innovative solution for those of us who have more children than we do seats in our sport utility vehicles. Russell Edmondson and his wife, Dona, are founders of Little Passenger Seats, and with six grandchildren in their lives, Russell states that his wife wanted to buy a new Landcruiser to accommodate them all “because it has three seats.” However, noting that Landcruisers are costly, Russell offered a compromise. He would buy a Ford Explorer and build an extra seat. And that’s what he did. Almost two decades ago, a Ford dealer saw Russell’s Explorer third row seat and encouraged him to research the market for auxiliary seats for SUV’s. After perfecting their product for sale, Russell states they sold 21 seats, and by 1999 sales moved upward to 1,350 seats! These seats also won awards, such as Central Valley Inventors’ Association People’s Choice Award, and for Business Most Likely to Succeed. So back to our first question…just how do little passenger seats work? They are manufactured specifically for the vehicle in which they are installed. Little Passenger Seats custom makes seats for over 70 different models including the Ford Explorer, Chevy Tahoe, Jeep Cherokee, Toyota 4Runner and Isuzu Trooper. Each seat is handmade, and upholstered to match the interior. Shoulder belts and head rests are offered, as well.
regarding safety, testimonials, how the seats work, and more. These seats are 100% satisfaction guaranteed, and the company even has a program to buy back used seats! And besides all that, Little Passenger Seats still operates a family business, run now by Russell’s son, Eric.
These seats are tested to meet safety standards set forth by the Department of Transportation’s Motor Vehicles Safety Standards. Each seat fits 2-3 children and costs $650 - $1500 depending on how you build up your seat. Convinced, yet? One owner of a Jeep Cherokee states the new seat was “a great purchase…has been very durable and just all around a great investment for our family.” Another family was in a rollover accident and states, “We are pleased to say that our 3rd row seating kept our younger two children safe and secure during the rollover.” And one more satisfied customer states, “I just installed our new seat this weekend, and I have to say I was very impressed and very happy with how smoothly it went. I had been a little nervous about installation, especially drilling holes into my truck's floor, but your instructions and very well designed frame and seat made it go very well. Everything lined up perfectly and the seat appears to be very solidly anchored and safe.” On their website, Little Passenger Seats asks a question and gives the answer, “Outgrowing your SUV? Install a little passenger seat…and get the seating capacity of a minivan.” Also on the website is all of the information for parents to know
By now you’re probably about to re-read this entire article because you can’t believe such an invention exists, one that’s affordable, and one that allows you to save your money you were just about to spend on a bigger car. Visit www.littleseats.com for more information, and purchase your little passenger seat for your little kids who need some comfort and space on your next road trip! Marcy Lytle
The Little Drummer Boy Pre-Buy Through 9/30/11 at LifeWay! This heart-warming tale is based on the story of Ephesians 4:32, which says “Be kind and compassionate to one another, forgiving each other, just as in Christ God forgave you.” The Little Drummer Boy will teach children the true joy of giving, and the real reason behind the season. The movie includes songs from Grammy and Dove Award-winning artists along with a few Christmas classics.
When you pre-buy The Little Drummer Boy you will receive Veggie Tales' St. Nicholas DVD FREE! DVD 005474781 Reg. $14.99
Meet AFF's Sales Rep! Rene Dorsey is author of Life Changers, one of AFF's Newest columns. Her sales experience is quite extensive spanning over 30 years from Real Estate to the Medical Industry. Her vast knowledge
is invaluable to her clients as she knows how to best market their specific industries. She loves helping people and is very involved with the homeless community. Her highest achievement is
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Fa mily Flickers of Fire
Practical Parenting Helpful Hints Journey for Two A Few Good Men
15 16 17 18
Practical Parenting:
Walking with Children Through Hard Times
M
y husband likes to give me pretty jewelry and I like to wear it. We're a great match. However, pretty jewelry is not the basis of our relationship. Like the gold in pretty jewelry, our marriage has been through some tough times, what some might refer to as “tried by fire.” Most things are destroyed by fire. Wood products become ashes, for instance. Gold remains gold. Once it is refined, gold can be melted and re-poured into different forms, but it is always gold. I'm not an expert on refining gold, but, as I understand it, gold goes through many stages, most involving heat, to get to a state where it is pure and usable for fine jewelry. All that to say, our lives are often developed by hardships – fire, if you will. The fire boils up all the ugliness, dross, or impurities in gold, to the surface, to be scooped off. When I fuss at my children for something inconsequential, I see the selfishness in my heart and ask God to scoop it out. With every bit of selfishness that is scooped out, I take on a little more of God's character, which is the gold standard. I wish I could say I am completely unselfish, but I'm afraid selfishness knows no depth. I can say I more often see my attitude for what it is and choose a different reaction. Perhaps one day, when I'm 980, God will have scooped
enough selfishness out of me to make me pure enough to be a piece of costume jewelry. We recently experienced a death in our family. It would have been nice to avoid that heartbreak, but we would have missed the refining God did. The death showed us God's circle of life. We remembered many funny, touching, and painful memories we shared with each other and our loved one. We reminded each other that God's plan is perfect, even when we don't understand it. We talked about trusting God and how we should really celebrate a Christian's passing, rather than mourn it. Without walking through this fire, I and my family would have less understanding of what the end of life means when we face it. Like most parents, I want to protect my children. I teach them not to run with scissors and not to climb on the refrigerator and not to stick their tongue to an icy pole (not much chance of that in Texas!). Regardless of the safe habits I teach them, they will each walk through their own fires. They MUST walk through hardships in order to develop godly character. If I protect them from struggles, they may never know God's faithfulness and kindness and grace as anything more than a Sunday School song.
That doesn't mean I throw them in the deep end and hope they swim. Instead, as trials come up in childhood, my husband and I counsel the children on having a godly attitude and making wise choices. For example, we practice an open email and letter writing policy with my oldest daughter. If we observe an unkind or inappropriate comment from her or a friend, we discuss the comment, talk about how to phrase the comment better or how to address it with the offending friend, and then how to handle the situation better the next time it happens. And it will always happen again. Even these flickers of fire now begin the process of forming godly character in her. If I were to ignore struggles in her very young life by giving her “space,” how would she learn anything…or the right things? I'm not an advocate for leaving things to chance. I prefer to meet growing pains head on. By starting now, I hope my daughter will avoid my mistakes, learn from my experience, and reap the benefits of God's purification process early. She’ll make her own mistakes and have unique refining fires, but she won't suddenly face a blazing forest fire never having experienced a little fire with help. Any parent can be a babysitter and let a child grow up haphazardly. God's plan for Christian parents is to prayerfully support their children while God refines them into his gold standard. For this purpose, don't protect your children from hardship, but rather walk through the fire with them. Georganne Schuch www.blog.coffeedogz.net
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Fa mily
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Helpful Hints
T he Benefits of Musical Creativity
here are many benefits of nurturing musical creativity in children. Participating in a variety of musical forms strengthens the creative, as well as the analytical, parts of the brain. Children who learn to play an instrument tend to have a better ability to solve mathematical equations, understand fractions, and learn multiplication tables. Because musical notation is mathematical, children are better able to transfer the same concepts to their math skills. Memorizing songs and learning lyrics provide an avenue for increasing the skills necessary to memorize concepts important in the classroom and to improve concentration. Children can become better learners through the avenue of music. Singing songs and learning to read music helps with language development, reading, and speaking. The cadence of verbal communication, including timing and vocal inflection, is easy to grasp through singing. The skills easily translate into developing better private and public speaking abilities. As a parent, there are several easy and practical things you can do to instill the love of music in your children. Sing to your children. Even if you do not consider yourself a “good singer,” your children will still think you have a great voice. Research has proven that children respond to music while still in the mother’s womb.
concerts and musicals introduces children to different performers and musical instruments. Provide music lessons. Learning to play a musical instrument or learning to sing has long-term benefits, even if your child does not continue into adulthood. Music teaches children many valuable life skills. Perseverance, problem solving, and time management skills, combined with creative expressions and positive self esteem for their accomplishments, can last a lifetime. Lastly, God loves music! Scripture is full of examples of music for self-expression including psalms of celebration, psalms of lament, music to sooth a tormented mind, and dancing in the streets as a worship offering for God’s powerful hand of deliverance. As Psalm 100: 1 and 2 says, “Make a joyful noise to the Lord, all the earth! Serve the Lord with gladness! Come into his presence with singing!”
Let the music come forth and, together with your children, reap the benefits of creativity!
Al Jones, Ph.D. Head to Heart Ministries www.headtoheart.org
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Dance! Dancing with your children provides a great way to teach movement, timing, and rhythm. Dancing is also an easy and fun form of exercise for both you and your children. Teach your children action songs. Children love action songs. The combination of singing and movement connects the mind with the body. CDs with songs, lyrics, and movement instructions, are a valuable resource for teaching and participating in action songs. Share a variety of musical styles. Children should be exposed to a wide range of musical styles. Pop, classical, country and western, rock, etc. teach children not only the diversity of music but the diversity of people and cultures. Attending
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Journey for Two
Fa mily
Mysterious Math W
hen Jesus walked the Earth, some religious people asked about divorce, and Jesus answered, “For this reason a man will leave his father and mother and be united to his wife, and the two will become one flesh… So they are no longer two, but one...” (Matthew 19) Two become one? God’s math can be a bit mysterious. He is, after all, three in one. The Father, Son and Holy Spirit are One God. 1+1+1=1. Try to define that algorithm. It’s a mystery!
0.5 + 0.5 = 1
1+1=1
This equation seems logical. Two halves come together to form one whole. In the words of Jerry Maguire, “You complete me.” It sounds romantic, but do you really want to be the partial person endlessly searching for your missing half? Couples who adhere to this equation are looking to their spouse to fulfill them. Take it from someone who has tried that approach - humans make terrible saviors!
What? With God’s supernatural math we are all we were meant to be. We don’t bring less than our full self in order to somehow balance the equation, and we are not two people living separate lives. Instead, we are thankful that in his kingdom two whole people join together to become one whole unit. This does not happen overnight. We believe marriage is a pursuit of this oneness.
1+1=2
We like formulas: add this, subtract that, and voila! If only it were that simple. When we look at our journey, we see how our strongest areas of union have come through our most difficult trials. Is that encouraging? Maybe not on the surface, but if you look a little deeper we trust you’ll find hope. Each time we choose to face a tough situation together and each time we choose to talk things out instead of pretending – we take another step toward oneness.
This is good sound math. These couples light the unity candle at their wedding but don’t blow out their own candles. In some areas of our marriage, we see our combined humanity in this equation: two selfish people, two prideful people, and two separate people. Although the product of this equation looks larger, the end result is emptier. It can feel more like 1+1=0.
Oneness
Maybe James was talking to couples when he said: “Consider it pure joy, my brothers and sisters, whenever you face trials of many kinds, because you know that the testing of your faith produces perseverance. Let perseverance finish its work so that you may be mature and complete, not lacking anything.” Know that in every marriage conflict there is potential for growth. As we come together through our challenges we mature. We become complete, not lacking, whole. Mysteriously, two become one.
Try This: Take time to celebrate a trial that brought maturity to your marriage! How do your numbers add up? Check out daveramsey.com/fpu for a Financial Peace University class near you. It is worth the investment. Plan a quiet evening to have an honest conversation about one area in which you feel more like two and less like one.
David & Lynn Cherry Staff, Shoreline Church
www.AustinFaithandFamily.com
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Fa mily
A Few Good Men
R
emember when Hollywood brought us male characters that were tough, in charge, breadwinners, romantic, and loving fathers? Of course, those depictions were idealistic and not very positive toward women. However, most current movies or TV shows today portray men as one or more of the following: a basic idiot, ignorant of the most common things, lazy, incompetent, insensitive to others (especially women), a macho tough guy brute, consumed by his work and/or only interested in beer, TV and sex. These guys are often still single, sometimes after multiple marriages, even into their 40’s and 50’s and yet dating and sleeping with women they either work with or know. While talking about real life like singleness, sexuality, divorce and the like is a step forward in one sense, the suggestion that most men are like those I’ve described is unreal and certainly skewing the perspectives of many. I’d like to suggest a few things we men need to DO, if our role is to be valued, seen in a new light, and if we’re to make a lasting difference in our homes, churches, and communities. First, men must communicate. They talk calmly and graciously to their wives, kids, neighbors and associates. They don’t wait around for others to initiate meaningful conversation. They don’t let being nervous about a situation with their wife or a stage of life their children are in keep them from talking about things that matter, being informed about their worlds, and becoming aware of the culture. They listen well, and they’re even willing to hear hard things about themselves and process
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them rather than becoming defensive. They don’t get action in others by yelling or demanding, but by making their expectations clear and then following up. Second, men must pray. They pray for their spouses, kids, friends, pastors, leaders, etc. Prayer is more than, “God, I need something,” but rather an intimate, ongoing conversation with the Father that includes praise, confession, thanksgiving and specific requests. We men are to be standing in the gap for those we love, and prayer is vital. Third, men must lead. In the past, much male leadership was pictured as domineering, being a know-it-all and not including women’s ideas, perspectives, and wishes. Perhaps we’re still facing a backlash against that in our movies and TV shows. Nonetheless, men still have a key role to play in their homes, churches, and offices when it comes to leadership. God especially gave men the challenge to be out in front of our families, modeling, guiding, initiating ideas and nourishing them. If we’re married, our spouses then should be welcomed into that leadership strategy to see that our home is a place where God is honored and healthy growth is taking place. I believe that when we stand before God and our home and family are evaluated that we men are going to be the first ones talked to. We’re going to be held responsible for how our family turned out. We can’t blame it on our spouse or kids if we didn’t lead well.
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Fourth, men must serve. Walk around the average church on a weekend and you’ll usually find more women than men serving. Churches as a whole often have more women than men, so those numbers aren’t surprising. However, our ministries need to see that men grow in their faith too; they put their Christianity into practice, and can love God just as passionately as women. Think of the modeling that children and students get when they see a man helping in their class or group. Finally, men must love. I mean really love, take their eyes off themselves, their ambitions and personal goals, and radically sacrifice for others. Too many relationships between men and their wives and children are tanking because men gave up on them. So men, are you willing to produce your own male reality show right there in your home, church, office or neighborhood? I hope so. We need to raise a higher banner for manhood, but one held up by love, care, intimate conversation, authenticity, and a passion for God. Gary Sinclair http://www.keepclimbing.net
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Submit calendar entries to Marcy@AustinFaithandFamily.com
by the 15th of the preceding month.
September 3
September 11
Cub Club / Cachorritos - 9:00a to 10:00a at Austin Children's Museum - Cub Club is a program for children ages 0-3yrs and their caregivers.
A WAKE-UP CALL for God’s People – a simulcast featuring Anne Graham Lotz and Joel Rosenberg with the music of Selah, beginning at 6:00p. The Lakeway Church.
Rango - Summer Cinema - 6:00p - family-friendly movie series at Southwest Bistro at the Hyatt Regency - Relax w/ comfy beanbag chairs while ordering off the full menu at Southwest Bistro. 3rd Annual Water 2 Thrive 5K - 9:30a at Dell Diamond, Round Rock - Each participant gets a packet, t-shirt, & also receive a ticket to see the Round Rock Express play the Albuquerque Isotopes.
September 12
Grief Share is a 13-week video series on Tuesdays for those coping with the loss of a loved one - 4:30p The Lakeway Church - Room 205 of Fellowship Center. FMI brent@lakewaychurch. net.
The Beth Moore study group will begin the series, Daniel: Lives of Integrity, Words of Prophecy, meeting Mondays from 12:45p to 2:30p in the Sanctuary. FMI and to register contact Betsye. witcher@gmail.com. The Lakeway Church is located at 2202 Lakeway Blvd., Lakeway.
September 7
Addiction: A Spiritual Journey. This interactive adult class will comprise six consecutive Mondays, from 7:00p -8:30p at The Lakeway Church.
September 8 Community Bible Study for Women is a caring in-depth Bible study available to all. 10:00a to 12:00p on Tuesdays at The Lakeway Church. FMI contact suzymcbs@gmail.com. New Day Children’s Chorus will rehearse Thursdays, from 6:00p – 8:30p. Children 2nd-8th grade are welcome to audition. Contact mark@ lakewaychurch.net to set up an audition time. The Lakeway Church is located at 2202 Lakeway Blvd., Lakeway.
September 10 FamilyLink Foster Care & Adoption Training Classes – for volunteers, mentors, and prospective parents – Austin Ridge Bible Church – Contact kelly@familylinkkids.com for more information, or call 512-233-6464. Second Saturdays are for Families – Austin’s Museum of Art – 12:00p – 4:00p. Rabbit Adoption Day - 1:00p to 4:00p at Petco - Hancock Center, Austin. Are you interested in adding a rabbit to your family? Come meet the bunnies and learn more about adopting a rabbit. Community Health Fair - 10:00a to 2:00p at Bethany Lutheran Church.
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Little Helping Hands 2nd Annual Family FUNdraiser & Beach Party - 1:00p to 4:00p at West Lake Beach.
September 6
Community Night 5:00p to 8:00p at Austin Children's Museum - The Museum stays open late EVERY Wednesday night for families to enjoy our exhibits and Storytime.
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AWANA begins at The Lakeway Church. AWANA clubs are FUN with a purpose – to reach and train kids for Christ through a program of scripture memory, games and awards – for children 3 years old through 8th grade. www.lakewaychurch.org.
Strength for the Family, Hope for the City
MAXT3: Revolutionize your exercise in only 12 minutes…w/the Doc! 6:00p – 7:00p - Pure Chiropractic Wellness, 3107 S. IH35 #787, Round Rock (Target Shopping Center) RSVP 512-2469355.
September 13 Mom to Mom begins at The Lakeway Church - ambiblically-based ministry pairing young moms with experienced mom mentors. 9:30a – 11:30a in the Student & Children’s Center. www. lakewaychurch.org. FREE HCG Weight Loss Class - 6:30p at the Natural Wellness Round Rock, 110 N-IH35 Ste 295. Call 512-310-8880 to confirm your attendance. Seating is limited.
September 15 The Pediatric Center of Round Rock offers free newborn and prenatal classes every month for new or expectant parents. The next free prenatal class will be from 6:00p to 7:00p in Round Rock at 7700 Cat Hollow Dr., #104. Please call (512) 7335437 to register.
September 16 Amy Dillon & Souled Out Ministries invites you to Freedemption Weekend in New Braunfels - Many attendees claim this weekend as a "milestone moment" in their life. Visit http://www. eventbrite.com/event/568729084 to register.
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September 17 MAXT3: Revolutionize your exercise in only 12 minutes…w/the Doc! 9:00a – 10:00a - Pure Chiropractic Wellness, 3107 S. IH35 #787, Round Rock (Target Shopping Center) RSVP 512-2469355.
September 19 Community Workshop: How to build a “Titanium Immune System” & increase natural resistance! 6:15p to 7:15p - Pure Chiropractic Wellness Office, 3107 S. IH-35 #787, Round Rock. RSVP (512) 246-9355.
September 20 FREE HCG Weight Loss Class - 6:30p at the Natural Wellness Cedar Park, 202 Walton Way Ste198. Call 512-528-0130 to confirm your attendance. Seating is limited.
September 22 FREE Class on Beyond Organic Food Delivered Direct to Your Door - 6:30p - Natural Wellness Round Rock, 110 N-IH35 Ste295. Call 512-310-8880 to confirm your attendance.
September 24 FamilyLink Foster Care & Adoption Training Classes – for volunteers, mentors, and prospective parents – Austin Ridge Bible Church – Contact kelly@familylinkkids.com for more information, or call 512-233-6464. The third annual Stop Child Trafficking Now 5K Walk. Join thousands across America to raise awareness and funding to stop this form of modern day slavery. The Austin Walk includes food and fun activities for kids afterwards. 7:30a – 12:00p - The Triangle – Austin. FREE.
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CureSearch for Children's Cancer - Austin Walk - 8:00a to 12:00p at Mueller Lake Park Amphitheater - Join pediatric cancer families, local hospitals, corporate and community teams to raise funds for children's cancer research as well as raising awareness of its devastating effects on children and their families. Splash Party Movie Nights - 9:00p at Deep Eddy Pool, Austin - Enjoy family movies and take a dip in the pool on a hot summer night. All movies begin at dusk. The Naked Foot 5k - 8:30a to 10:30a at Brushy Creek Lake Park - for the entire family benefiting the charity Soles4Souls- bring a pair of shoes to donate and then run in our 1 miler or 5k (barefoot or in shoes). National Hunting and Fishing Day - 8:00a to 1:00p at Old Settlers Park, Round Rock. FREE. Join us and Kids Outdoor Zone - family-oriented event, with fun and educational hands-on activities that everyone will enjoy. International China Concern – Walk the Wall 2011 – A 10km walk for China’s disabled children 9:30a – 12:00p – Hill Country Bible Church - http:// www.walkthewall.org/.
September 25 CASA Superhero Run - 7:00a to 10:00a at The Domain - Be a superhero for abused and neglected children at the 2011 CASA Superhero Run.
September 30 "Living My Life Like its Golden" - Free Women's Leadership Conference. Kick-off Celebration: 7:00p - 9:00p – Elgin Middle School, 1351 North Avenue C. FMI or to register please visit: http:// sites.google.com/site/siscovergirls/. Collide Retreat - a Christian retreat for ACC students. Come connect with other ACC students as we pursue Christ - Sept 30-Oct 2 at Highland Lakes. Cost is $40. FMI visit collideretreat.com.
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www.AustinFaithandFamily.com
his is our second year to highlight music in a special section in our magazine, because we feel that music is the pulse of the heart of our city. And good Christian music beats from the heart of God. Great music lifts the spirit, good lyrics change hearts and minds, and when the two combine into one artist or one song – the impact is eternal. Rather than showcase “big” names in the Christian music arena, we at Austin Faith & Family realize that often the ones who are yet “unknown” are the best! We only have space to highlight a few, but once you read about these artists and their passion for Him, we hope you recognize that Austin is not just a hub of good secular music, but it’s full of Christian artists who have a message to relay – and they do it well.
can play and be heard. And…this place is an event center where families, couples, youth, or groups can come hang out together, in a safe environment that rocks the house! We all know that ACL is Austin City Limits and it’s held each September in Austin. Ticket prices are high, but people will show up from all over – rain or shine – to hear the line-up of bands. So why now show up somewhere in town this month for ACMU – Austin Christian Music Unlimited? Well, that’s not really an event per se, but it could be. Imagine with me what Austin would be like with a huge Christian festival in the park where thousands come to hear. It all starts by supporting local artists like these… Marcy Lytle
Not only are there individuals and groups arising out of our city who want to be “salt and light,” there’s a great venue where these people
Club Realm is a Christ-based/all ages nightclub and entertainment venue. Did you even know Austin had such a place? The club is now in a new location – right in the heart of the city – with two venues! One is a “nightclub” venue that accommodates 500 people, and the other is a major event venue which has two huge concert halls, an “awesome” production theatre, and a massive night lounge. Club Realm is the ONLY true Christian nightclub in Austin. Kevin Flenniken states, “Our quality and shows are the absolute best in Austin, even among the secular venues… We are in a unique position as a truly relevant venue to reach the lost. We show the public (in a real life scenario) a new side of life and present the Gospel/ Christianity in a relatable way. Our goal is to transform the norm, to change perceptions, and bring the focus back to Jesus.” Kevin says Club Realm is “insanely fun and all for the right reasons.” There are awesome shows lined up, and EVERYONE is welcome to come see what it’s like. “This is the perfect place for fellowship,” states Kevin. Club Realm wants to encourage people of all ages to come have a good time, in a safe environment. 6700 Middle Fiskville Rd., Suite 403. They are currently open every Friday night, from 8PM – 12AM and periodic Saturday nights at 6PM.
www.ClubRealm.com www.AustinFaithandFamily.com
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A Band Built Around the Word
T
im and Angela Dolbear, of the band child of the Son, have a new soundtrack called The Garden Key, and state that every song is a “vignette of striking true-to-life experiences.” Angela is the author of the novel The Garden Key, and the songs on the CD follow the main protagonist in the novel (Madeleine) through her spiritual journey. The soundtrack contains “ethereal driving music with a European flavor, worshipful hard rock, and a soaring acoustic live performance.” child of the Son has performed at many live events locally, including the City of Cedar Park’s National Day of Prayer, they have played at Dominican Joe’s Coffee Shop, as well as at the coffee shop It’s a Grind. They also have led worship and performed at many churches, and have rocked “The Gig” on Melrose Avenue in Hollywood, California.
The Dolbears state that all of their songs make up their testimony of God’s work in their lives. “We also try to incorporate Scripture into the lyrics we write. There’s just something powerful about a song that is built around a portion of the Word.” Sometimes people come up after a performance in tears, asking for a copy of the lyrics, and they always oblige. The most requested lyrics come from their song “Whatever” based partly on Philippians 4 “… whatever is true…whatever is right…dwell on these things.” Angela states this song came out of her own attempt to memorize that scripture, and she states, “I guess other people need it too.” At another show, a big “burly” guy was on the front row, and it looked as though he was perhaps dragged there against his will. During the song “Beloved,” a song about Jesus’
unfailing love, Angela noticed tears coming down this man’s face, and she started to get choked up herself. It’s moments like these that inspire the Dolbears to pray for those to whom they minister. Tim and Angela are both accomplished musicians. Tim started out as a shred guitar player at the age of 15, and has played with many well-known musicians, and is a soughtafter professional mixing and mastering engineer. Angela studied voice and is a Bank of America plaque winner in the area of Performing Arts. Together, Tim and Angela own and operate Eclectica Studios, a professional recording facility in Austin, and continue a labor of love of their music ministry, child of the Son. Currently, they lead worship together at Sunrise Fellowship in Round Rock, TX. If the child of the Son band had a motto, they say it would be “Glorify God, or go home.” As they pursue excellence in writing, playing, and singing, they make sure to maintain a healthy prayer life, and lots of time in the Word. Previous releases by this band include Dependence Day (digital only-release) and Never Been to Memphis (collage of music textures and melodies). “My Soul” debuted as “featured new music” on 95.9 FM, the FISH, a premiere radio station in California. “Leap of Faith” and “Change” were both given airplay nationwide. For more information, please contact Angela at (512) 219-0100 or angela@childoftheson. com. The soundtrack is available at www. CloudPillarPublishing.com.
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www.AustinFaithandFamily.com
theRESPONSE
t
heRESPONSE began in 2009 in a worship community based out of Hill Country Bible Church Northwest, with their first album release in 2010 called With One Voice. On their website, it states that this band only cares about one thing: “Creating environments where genuine worship happens.” theRESPONSE is an Austin-based, Christian rock and worship band, and recently won the Creation Northwest 2011 Indie Competition. They were one of only15 bands selected to play at the competition, held in Seattle, Washington
O
in July. Creation is the largest Christian musical festival in the United States, and headliners included Switchfoot, Chris Tomlin, Tenth Avenue North, Newsboys, David Crowder Band, Brandon Heath, and many more. At the invitation of the African Children’s Choir, theRESPONSE also made a trip to Uganda and played a series of concerts with the choir and Uganda’s #1 Christian artist, Wilson Bugembe. Upon their return from Uganda, theRESPONSE played the Texas Tunes into Africa concert in March of 2011, hosted by the stars of Friday
rachel keagy:
n rare occasions, a Christian artist comes along who has such a distinctive voice that the audience is awed upon hearing the first words out of her mouth. Rachel Keagy is one such special talent. Her voice is distinctive. She is no stranger to the Austin music scene where she is known for her beautiful angelic voice, as well as her unique contemporary music, filled with various musical styles, from acoustic to pop gospel, to Latin jazzy soulful flavors. Rachel writes her songs from her hometown of Austin, Texas. Her CDs are produced in a small L.A. studio run by a master musician who hails from Chile, who is a guitarist, pianist, and her father. From this special heritage, God has fed Rachel's soul with a love for music and given her a refreshingly original voice. He has created a uniquely "Rachel" sound to her contemporary Christian music. Out of her heart and mind come words that describe her perfect relationship with Jesus Christ, "Lord, bring me to yourself. I want to be nowhere else."
The band is made up of a group of friends who are passionate about worship that connects people with the Father. Their second CD is due out in fall of 2011. For more information or to book this band, visit http://theresponseworship.com or http://www. reverbnation.com/theresponseworship.
style original
on 2006 Compilation Album Red Compilation of Christian Artists from Austin, Texas released out of AboveGroundsAustin.com. Other accolades include: 2006 GMA-Gospel Music Association in the Rockies Top 3 Vocal Finalist. Song "You
Alone Know" has been on a Christian Radio Weekly Indie Radio Singles Disc. Nominated for a Momentum award with Indieheaven 2007. Rachel has also shared her voice at local radio stations, festivals, churches, and coffee houses all here in Austin. Rachel's open personality and glowing spirit shine in her whole being, allowing her heart for Jesus and people to never go unnoticed. This year Rachel is hard at work writing brand new music and would love for you to be a part of it. You can hear and interact with Rachel at her YouTube channel www.youtube.com/ rachelkeagy. She wants you to fall more in love with the person Jesus Himself when you listen to the music she writes and produces. Independent artists like Rachel write songs, produce their music, and perform for the love of the Lord. It's a calling and a ministry that encourages Christians and brings others to Christ.
Many musical honors Rachel has received have been right here in Austin TX: 2006 and 2008 Top 5 Artist at the Annual 102.3FM The River Austin Artist Showcase. Finalist at Ignition Showcase, Austin 2007. Rachel also appears www.AustinFaithandFamily.com
Night Lights, at Nutty Brown, with Carolyn Wunderland, Guy Forsyth, and the African Children’s Choir.
Together, Rachel and her father have produced many songs to date. Her CD projects titled, Sing it for Him and Masterpiece are available through Itunes and online at her website www. indieheaven.com/artists/rachelkeagy. Strength for the Family, Hope for the City
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MIt's ylon Avery & Silent Road All About Connecting
ylon has always had a deep connection to music. He says it began when he was a kid watching his dad sing in a Southern Gospel Quartet. “The concerts were a blast. I watched four guys tell jokes, introduce the band, and set the tone for the night. They could make the audience laugh or cry before they sang one note,” recalls Mylon. The back and forth banter between singer and audience was fun, but Mylon states that when the talking was over and the music began…something happened. That something was connection. The musicians connected with the audience and everyone connected with God. Mylon describes music this way: “Music connects us to each other. We share common experiences and express them together by singing the same words to the same melody, and for a moment we are no longer alone. Music can also connect us with God. Gifted songwriters write the words we long to say but don’t know how. Anointed musicians create an atmosphere that helps us express ourselves, and the result is a deep connection to our Heavenly Father.” When Mylon Avery and Silent Road play, their goal is to connect. Mylon got his first guitar at age 12, learned a few cords, and hasn’t looked back. He’s played many styles over the years such as Christian rock, church hymns, and contemporary praise and worship, but a few years back as he set out to write some songs for his first solo project, his country roots began to show. Mylon states, “I would sit out on the front porch with my guitar, God would fill my heart with simple country melodies, and the words just came to me. They came from the depths of my heart. They came from my faith, my experiences and my life. These songs are easy to sing because they are the songs of my life.” Mylon feels that connection
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when he sings them. He feels a connection to others who share similar life experiences. He feels a connection to his past and the people who have mattered in his life. He feels a deep connection to his Savior. “The music helps me express to Him how much He means to me. As I look back at all the music I have played, one thing keeps me coming back - the connection.” “Love One Another” was Mylon’s first solo recording with Silent Road backing him up, but he says, “We’ve been playing together for years. Bassists Brian McMurrey has been my band mate for 25 years, and our drummer Jeremy Avery has been playing with us for a decade or more.” Mylon says they love to play the kind of songs you can sing. The kind you can listen to in your car, drive down the highway with the music blasting while you sing along, at the top of your voice. He says, “You could call us Modern Christian Country in the musical style of Keith Urban or Rascal Flatts, but with a distinctly Christian message.” The music isn’t “churchy” but rather expresses the presence and providence of God in everyday life. The band might sing about winning the lost or a hard day at work. The key for Mylon is not God in the obvious but finding God in the everyday things. He says God is just as present in working hard and providing for your family as He is in your devoted prayer or church service. God is at work in your mortgage as well as your ministry. There is no part of your life that He is not engaged in. He says, “I want to help people recognize and connect with Jesus in the simple, everyday things.” And music is one way Mylon Avery can help make that connection. Visit http://www.mylonavery.com/ information.
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more
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Why Jesus? eorge Strait will sing “I Saw God Today” and Carrie Underwood will belt out “Jesus, Take the Wheel.” But the “Why Jesus?” answers from the artists heard on K-LOVE give insight to a personal relationship with Christ. “It’s not a part of my life. It is my life,” Grammy winner TobyMac explains. “When I am having a conversation, I’m thinking about my faith and how it plays a role in that conversation. When I am writing a song, I’m thinking ‘what’s the role of my faith in this?’ All things come out of my faith. My faith is my absolute hope. It’s the truth for my life.” Natalie Grant, a four-time Dove Award female vocalist of the year, says strengthening one’s relationship with Christ requires reading his word, but that she struggles with it. “I wish I could say I do it every day,” Grant says of reading her Bible. “But I don’t. I fail at it so often because I am a mom to twins, and I tour around the country, and I’m a wife, and I have way too many loads of laundry and an empty refrigerator that’s constantly calling on me to go to the grocery store. So I wish I could say I balance it perfectly, but I don’t.” Grant, whose song “Your Great Name” remains one of the most requested songs on K-LOVE, says Christian music is uplifting. “It’s like a medicine,” Grant says. “When I listen to music that has lyrics, they’re powerful reminders of who God is and…that He’s right next to me and He’s holding on to me and He’s never letting go.” Matthew West assures that despite man’s shortcomings, God’s grace is a free gift and can come at any time. His hit “Next Thing You Know,” opens with his salvation story. “I’ll never forget being 13 years old, turning on a TV screen
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looking for a baseball game and finding Billy Graham instead,” West says in his “Why Jesus?” interview. “That feeling in my heart; like scripture says ‘behold I stand at your heart’s door and knock.’ I felt the knocking at that moment. I love telling people the story of how God pursued my heart. Because I hope it will encourage them to know that He’s pursuing them too.” Dove Award male vocalist of the year Chris August explains that building a relationship with Christ is a choice one makes every day. “People feel like it’s this mystic thing and you have to feel it all the time,” August says. “It’s like any other relationship. You talk to God. You listen to God. And when he’s talking to you, be still.” August wrote a song about the reality of Christ. August says. “It’s about being honest and saying ‘look God, I have my doubts.’ But the beautiful thing is that when you have even just a little bit of faith . . . He shows himself.” August explains the importance of Christian music being available to everyone. “K-LOVE is bringing music today into a society that needs it most,” August says. “When everything else is just about the world and looking pretty, we have something that has some substance; some people giving their life to Christ and a station that’s encouraging that.” American Idol veteran Mandisa, who also has enjoyed success on K-LOVE Radio, approached it a little differently. She says fear drove her to become a believer in Christ. Mandisa says, “I was scared of going to hell, so I knew Jesus was the way that wouldn’t happen. But I’ve come to learn that He is so much more than that. He is the reason why I have purpose and hope and a future in my life.”
Strength for the Family, Hope for the City
Peter Furler, who recently embarked on a solo career, talks about Christ coming to set things right and how that message is conveyed through music. “We get signs of it here; we can see it in a painting,” Furler says. “We can hear it in a song. You can hear when people are all singing together.” The message of righting wrongs is explained by West, who admits his own selfishness and how he’s used it to steer his music and his life. “Most recently Jesus has saved me from thinking that my life is all about me,” West says. “He’s opening my eyes to see a world in need the way he sees a world in need. It’s kind of redefining who I am and it’s why I do what I do.” Why Jesus? Who better to ask than the people writing and performing faith-inspired lyrics heard by millions of listeners every day? In the process of exposing their hearts for Christ, it is clear that many of these performers have intentionally distinguished themselves as Christian music artists. Excerpts from the recorded segments are often heard on K-LOVE radio stations all over the country and worldwide on the Internet, and reveal that these artists are as normal as the people next door, with similar fears, concerns, victories and faults. And their songs are a reflection of a lifestyle, rather than a music style. Raul Flores
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Strait Music:
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hey’ve been around almost 50 years now, family members still run the stores, and they are still the local retailer “where customers become friends.” Strait Music Company has staying power, and that power has given them the status of being the #48 music retailer in the nation! How does a business succeed over the span of five decades, through a huge disaster where they almost lost everything, and on to the current economic stress, and still come out on top? We asked Robert Strait and Clint Strait, son and grandson of founder Dan Strait, and their answers are inspiring.
An Au
In 1963, Dan Strait started a franchise in Austin called Strait Piano & Organ, then expanded into guitars and amps, and the rest is history. Strait Music now sells musical instruments of all kinds, and Dan Strait’s children and grandchildren are still working and taking care of business. Robert Strait runs the South Austin location, along with his brother, and his son, and he actually states that all of the employees at both Strait locations are “like family.” The Strait family members are not necessarily musicians, but they’re all business-smart, and it shows. Retired since 1982, Dan Strait has created a legacy of respect, honor, and integrity in the Austin area that extends generation to generation, employee to employee, and employee to customer. Austin area schools benefit from the band/ orchestra music program instigated by the good people at Strait Music. They have a rental/purchase program where parents can rent an instrument, pay a little each month, and that payment goes toward the purchase of the instrument, should the child continue to play. If the child loses interest, the instrument is returned, no questions asked. Clint Strait says he likes to tell parents, who are considering an instrument for their young child, “If they stick with it, you will own the instrument by high school.” Any parent who’s had a child decide they want to play the drums, the flute, the clarinet, or any other musical instrument can see the value in shopping at Strait, since those same children often change their minds many times! Purchasing an instrument up-front can break a parent’s bank, but having the choice of renting with the option to purchase frees up kids that are budding musicians, to explore the possibilities of different musical expressions.
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Robert & Clint Strait of Strait Music
Strength for the Family, Hope for the City
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ustin Legend Like any business that’s been in operation for many years, Strait Music has seen their share of troubles. One of the biggest disasters in Austin, the flood of 1981, just about destroyed their inventory and put them out of business. Their location at that time was on North Lamar, in an area that flooded easily, in torrential rains. Flash floods, common here in Central Texas, came out of nowhere, and as a result, pianos were seen floating down the street in front of their business. Only a few brass instruments were salvaged, with most everything else being swept away. After barely surviving, Strait Music relocated to a spot just up the road at 5th St and West Ave for five years. They sold that property in 2000 and bought an old theater and renovated it, which is now the location of their South Austin location, at Ben White and South Lamar. They also have a north store, at Hwy 183 and Hwy 620. These are two prime locations, for a prime business! Robert Strait says that during this devastating loss, they had no flood insurance, and very few instruments were salvaged. However, when people came to help, and volunteers showed up to assist in the clean-up, the Strait family was impressed and blessed by the “good people” of this city. Austin may have changed over the years, expanding their city limits and growing in population, but Robert Strait says, “It still has the same ‘feel’ as way back then.” There have been ups and downs over the years, but hard times have only made this family-strong company even stronger. “No one else does everything,” states Robert. And “everything” is right. If you can’t find an instrument at Strait, it’s probably not available anywhere.
Besides that, acoustic guitars are popular among current buyers as well. Perhaps Eddie Vedder inspired musicians to take up the ukulele, or Jason Castro, an American idol contestant. Wherever the trend originated, it doesn’t matter. Strait Music is always current, always relevant, and always stocked with the current needs and wishes of parents and their kids, as well as the individual musician looking for that “great buy” and the best instrument to play! Strait Music is also known for their presence at local venues, where they are sponsors. Every Wednesday night, at the Nutty Brown Café in far South Austin, KVET has a free concert series… sponsored by Strait Music. Each Thursday, another free event “Unplugged at the Grove,” hosted by KSGR, takes place at Shady Grove Restaurant, again…sponsored by Strait Music. Clint Strait says Strait Music donates guitars that have been signed by famous musicians to be auctioned off at local charity events, and pointed out a guitar in their office signed by Willie Nelson that is next up to go. Charities in the Austin area also benefit from the kindness of Strait Music. They are very involved in helping Health Alliance for Austin Musicians (HAAM), an organization that provides affordable healthcare to Austin musicians. Local schools receive repaired instruments, which are good as new, for their band students. Kids in a New
Groove is a nonprofit that helps foster children through nurturing their hearts and minds through music, and Strait Music donates numerous instruments to help these at-risk kids. Moody Blues recently played in Austin and Strait Music joined up with the effort, because as Robert Strait put it, “We love giving back.” It says on Strait Music’s website, “Whether you’re in a market to invest in a piano that will last for generations or you just need a concert grand for an evening of fun, Strait Music is Austin’s premier piano headquarters.” This statement sums up the very essence of who Strait Music is in our city. Their employees treat their customers the same, whether they’re spending a little or a lot, and they find these customers the very best instruments to enhance their musical experience, at a price they can afford. Many of the employees at Strait have been with the business for decades, because of the family atmosphere and friendly relations. 2013 will be the 50 year mark for Strait Music, and a business that’s been around that long, still going strong, speaks volumes…even without a note being played. This Austin tradition has endured the worst, and still offers the best. That’s music to all of our ears. Marcy Lytle
Not only does Strait Music sell new musical instruments, but they repair instruments too, and put them right back into the community, so more kids can enjoy. They also work together with Austin School of Music, located right next to them. Austin School of Music sends their students next door to buy their instruments and Strait Music sends their customers to Austin School of Music for lessons. It’s a relationship that works! Clint Strait, one of the 3rd generation family members, says one of the hottest buys right now is the ukulele, a “nationwide fad.” Ukuleles are inexpensive and can be taken anywhere. www.AustinFaithandFamily.com
Strength for the Family, Hope for the City
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Life
Ladies Top 10:
Ladies Top 10 Erin's Cooking Spend Life Well
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Simplify the Stuff I BY MARCY LYTLE
t’s September, and just maybe our hopes for cooler days are about to be realized soon. Perhaps we’ve hit the end of summer sales, and our closets are now full of new “stuff.” We’ve got shoes, clothes, books – oh my! Where to start? With the holidays around the corner, it’s always good to simplify our stuff, and realize how blessed we really are – and then give what we don’t need away to those who will use it as new…all over again. You could have a garage sale, but it’s a lot of work for often little return. Why not consider…
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Shoes – “Boots are made for walking,” right? So if you have boots, shoes, sandals, etc. that are sitting instead of walking, give them away! Bag them all up, call 1-800-SA-TRUCK, and let The Salvation Army come by to get those shoes for someone who will wear them often.
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Toys – What about getting your church and others to come together to host a toy swap? You’ve got time now to plan it for next month, in the park near your church. Pass out flyers, and ask that neighbors bring any gently used toy, and then they can take home toys for their kids – free! Just collect all the toys from every family in your church and have them set up for viewing, playing, and taking! Prom Dresses – These dresses cost a fortune, and are usually worn once! Then they sit in our closets and “yellow” over the years, never to be seen again. Check out Project Princess in Austin where they take gently used prom dresses for the next girl on that special night.
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Clothes – Make sure when you place these in bags that they are not stained, torn, or faded. Those who receive your clothes deserve gently used, but nicely “new.” Maybe you have jeans you’ve worn once because you bought the wrong size, or you have clothes that were given to you that don’t suit your taste. Take time to go through every closet in the house and fold up these clothes for giving. Texas Paralyzed Veterans sends trucks to your door for pick-ups. Dial 1-877-977-0987.
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Books – Did you know that Austin libraries accept book donations? Call your neighborhood library and ask for the criteria and specifications. Books can stay in good condition after many, many eyes have read them, and to purchase a new book can be costly. So go through your shelves, your book bags, and your kids’ reading material they’ve outgrown, and consideration a donation.
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Food – Is your pantry full with canned food that you can spare? Visit the Capital Area Food Bank and see what they do, and perhaps even volunteer on a Saturday. Then go home and load up goods to donate. You will bless a family, and you will be satisfied, as well! Are you enjoying the giving, yet? There’s nothing better! Baby items – There’s a long list of baby necessities that just take up room, once the kids grow up. Strollers, high chairs, cribs, playpens, etc. are stacked up in your garage or in the back of a closet, attracting dust, and taking up space. Consider donating gently used items to Any Baby Can. They appreciate it!
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Cars – Now it’s not sitting in your closet or on a shelf, but maybe you have a car in your garage that’s taking up room you could use for storage. Perhaps it’s a car from a parent who’s no longer driving now, or you’re about to buy a new car, and can afford to give your old one away. Where does one do that? I can’t think of a better recipient that someone in your own church. Is there a single mom struggling to get her teen his first car? Ask around. Strength for the Family, Hope for the City
Electronics– The American Red Cross has a wish list with things like: computer monitors, DVD players, flatscreen TV’s, etc. Check out their list, because it changes and it’s very specific. Electronics usually fill our homes, and some are just “overkill.” Get rid of a couple. You’ll have more space on your desk, and more time to play with your kids and enjoy life.
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Money – Probably the only place money is taking up space is in your wallet, your purse, or maybe in a piggy bank where you keep change. What if you took one month’s savings of change from every member of the family and gave it away? Pay for everything with paper money, and keep the change. You’d be surprised at how quickly it adds up. Who to give it to? Look around, pray about it, and after you’ve changed the coins at the bank for cash, place it in the hand of a person you love. AUSTIN
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Life
Erin's Cooking
Grade School Flashback S
chool is back in session! Welcome back flashing School Zone lights (cell phone use prohibited!) Wave “howdy” to the neighborhood friendly crossing guard! It’s back to packing lunches for the kids & thinking up new bribes for all A’s on your high school kid’s report card. If you like routine, then say goodbye to the chaos of summer. If you don’t like routine, there’s only nine more months until next summer vacation.
Monkey Muffins 2 cans Pillsbury Simply Biscuits (10 biscuits/can) 1 Cup granulated sugar 1 Cup Brown sugar 3 Tbsp. Cinnamon 2 sticks Butter Directions: Preheat oven to 425 degrees. Melt butter in a small bowl in microwave, 45 seconds to 1 minute. In a separate small bowl, mix together sugars and cinnamon. Open cans of biscuits and tear each biscuit into 4 equal balls of dough. Take 5 or 6 balls of dough and dip into butter then roll in sugar mixture until well coated. Using a greased muffin tin, put cluster of dough into one muffin cup. Repeat until all dough is used and every muffin cup is full. Spoon remaining butter over each cluster.
I lived in the same house all through grade school and knew the neighbor kids on the block. In the early days, we would walk, ride or scoot to and from school together every day. My favorite part of the school day was after-school snack time. We kids would share with each other, whether it was a package of Easy Mac or a can of Coke. It was like a kindergarten swap meet, if you can even imagine what that would look like; this for that, yours for mine. On the occasion that my older brother or sister was home with me before my parents came home from work, we would get creative and, well, create. My sister learned how to make Monkey Bread at a friend’s sleepover and brought the recipe home to share. My dad is the grocery shopping, coupon clipper in the family, so our pantry and fridge was always stocked with the necessities – at least the necessities for this recipe. It was such an easy fix that this recipe became a crowd pleaser among the household. Duh! It’s sugar! If it appears to be a little lacking on the nutritious side, you might be right. But, let’s look on the bright side. If it seems like a fun and inexpensive way to get your kids in the kitchen, it is. Most importantly, if you view this recipe as a blank slate in need of your creative modifications, right on. One up me – I dare you! Erin Osborn Cooking Enthusiast
Bake for 15 minutes. Serve warm.
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Strength for the Family, Hope for the City
www.AustinFaithandFamily.com
Spend Life Well
O
ur economy is not so great. The stock market is acting like a roller coaster and there is talk of a double-dip recession. Let’s talk about some things that we all need to do in any economy, but more so when things are uncertain:
Pray for our nation We need to pray for our leaders; that they may seek God’s will for our nation. Pray for our economy; that companies will prosper so that they may employ more workers and invest more capital. Pray for our families, that God will provide and pour his blessings out upon us. And pray that our global economic situation will not only stabilize but prosper; such that there will be less suffering and grief in this world. I believe that only God will provide if we will ask.
Give back As a follower of Christ, giving is an expected part of life. In the New Testament, you will see that Jesus talks about “when we give” not “if we give.” Jesus also talked about giving as an act to glorify God.
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Giving needs to be the first thing we do when we get paid. It helps us remember from where all our blessings come.
Save for the future Life happens. The car will break down, the A/C unit will wear out, and you will need money for things you did not expect. God instructed you to save for a reason….you are going to need it. Make sure the second thing you do after giving is to pay yourself by saving and investing. You can accomplish this by adding to your 401(k), depositing it into the bank, or burying a can in the back yard. But do it now.
Live within your means What am I saying here? Spend less than you make. It’s plain and simple. When we spend more than we make, we go into debt. Take time at the beginning of the month to determine how each and every dollar you earn will be spent (after giving and saving of course!) Don’t let your money control you by not having a spending plan.
Strength for the Family, Hope for the City
Life
Get out of debt Debt is a burden you must kick to the curb. The Bible does not say it is wrong to use debt, but it does issue a clear warning about debt. Proverbs 22:7 states, “The rich rule over the poor, and the borrower becomes the lender’s slave.” You need to be careful when using debt; that it is for the right reasons, not for the purpose of funding your lifestyle. Neither government nor the global economy environment can dictate your family’s success and prosperity. Our Lord is much bigger than that.
Mark Trice
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8: you can save a life
ill they take my organs before I’m actually gone? Can I still have a normal funeral?” Believe it or not, those are two questions many people want answered before they are willing to even consider donating their organs to save the lives of others. Donating organs isn’t usually a topic of conversation at the dinner table, nor is it anything most people about…until someone they love is dying and in need of a transplant. For Tyler Gipson, he was the one in need, and now he wants to help others be blessed – to receive life – such as he’s been given. Tyler Gipson was diagnosed with severe juvenile diabetes at a young age, and was actually the third recipient of the insulin pump. When Tyler turned 30, he cut his foot badly and, being a diabetic, went to the doctor right away. There he learned he had lost 80% of his kidney function; but a kidney transplant alone would not fix his problem. Once again, Tyler was part of a new procedure, this time a dual transplant of the pancreas and the kidney. After 16 hours of surgery, 11 years ago, Tyler woke up with one of his mom’s kidneys, and the pancreas of another donor. He also woke up with a stronger faith in God. As Tyler put it, God slapped his hand and said, “Hey, I’m here and I’ve got your back!” 1equals8, an organization designed to educate and motivate people to become organ donors, was birthed out of this experience Tyler had with
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near death…and then life. Tyler Gipson and his family, together with Carrie Taylor and her family, work together to help people realize how easy it is to be a donor. They also desire to assist those in need of a transplant with practical things like transportation to appointments, assistance with co-pays, etc. The name 1equals8 means one donor can save eight lives. And there are at least 110,000 lives waiting for transplants in our nation at this time. Tyler says he is willing to speak at schools, churches, or anywhere people will listen. “If Tyler’s on the elevator long enough, you’re going to hear about organ donation,” states Crystal, Tyler’s wife. Support is already falling into place for 1equals8, including support from many law firms and CPA’s. Russ Petterman, Director of TLCC (Texas Life Science Collaboration Center), received a liver transplant and is now a big supporter of 1equals8. Tyler also states he welcomes individual phone calls, because he remembers he “had no one to call” with his questions and fears, when he was going through his transplant.
Carrie Taylor, a friend of the Gipsons, became involved with this mission when she witnessed the “healing hands” of God in Tyler’s life. Hearing his story of miraculous provision, she wanted to be a part of the process of informing others about organ donation. She says they have many events on the calendar and invites people to come.
Strength for the Family, Hope for the City
Carrie Taylor and Tyler Gipson Tyler and his wife recently adopted a little girl, and Tyler is feeling great. With a passion in his voice, determination in purpose, and God behind what he’s doing, Tyler knows that organ donation is just one of God’s blessings for others that “needs to happen.” Donating is not scary, and the process is not hard. Visit www.1equals8.com and find all you need to become a part of saving lives and blessing others. Marcy Lytle
www.AustinFaithandFamily.com
Health
Living to the Max Healthy Indeed
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Living to the Max:
The Wonder of the Nervous System
T
he real definition of health begins with the principle that health is our natural state. “In the beginning God created” the human body to be healthy by proclaiming that all of His creation was good. When we believe that we begin life with bodies that are designed and wired to heal, we can make lifestyle changes that put us on the pathway to health and wellness. Even though we know that the mortal must put on the immortal from 1 Corinthians 15:50-53, “flesh and blood cannot inherit the kingdom of God, nor does the perishable inherit the imperishable….For this perishable body must put on the imperishable, and this mortal body must put on immortality,” we can still walk on paths that either move us toward sickness and death or toward healing and life. We are always moving toward one state or another by our lifestyle choices. Learning and incorporating the 5 Essentials of a Maximized Life: max mind, max nerve supply, max quality nutrition, max oxygen and lean muscle, and minimized toxins, allows us to live in cooperation with the natural healing and recuperative powers of our bodies. Every human body requires the same beneficial environmental and lifestyle ingredients that promote health in the body. Similarly, there are ingredients in our environment that are toxic to the body. Because we live in a world full of temptation, danger, and stress, we are in a constant battle between life and death. Body, soul, and spirit become the battleground in this fight. Jesus proclaimed that He came to give us abundant life while the enemy came to “kill, steal, and destroy.” When 90 million suffer from chronic disease in the U.S., we must ask ourselves what is the true cause of sickness and disease in the body, what are the right things to do to enhance our body’s ability to heal from within, and what things do we need to avoid that interfere with the healing process.
Out of the 5 Essentials, having a maximized nerve supply is not the least. Of first importance to our physical bodies is our central nervous system. When two cells come together and God breathes His life into them, they form a body made up of 76 trillion cells all functioning as one (1 Corinthians 12:20.) According to neurology research, it is the brain and spinal cord that begin to develop in the first few days after conception. The nervous system is defined as the “master system” that controls, coordinates, and monitors all systems, glands, organs, tissues, and cells. This amazing system contains approximately 10 billion nerve cells. We are called to consider the wonders of our formation in Psalm 139:13-16, “For you formed my inward parts; you knitted me together in my mother's womb. I praise you, for I am fearfully and wonderfully made. Wonderful are your works; my soul knows it very well. My frame was not hidden from you, when I was being made in secret, intricately woven in the depths of the earth. Your eyes saw my unformed substance; in your book were written, every one of them, the days that were formed for me, when as yet there was none of them.” To further inspire us in considering the “universe within” and caring for our bodies as the temple of God, we can liken the nervous system and its parts to a tree and how it functions to bear fruit, where the brain supplies and receives the information that flows up and down the spinal cord as the stem, through the nerves as the branches, and on to the organs as the fruit receiving life, function, and healing.
Susan is Austin Faith & Family's advertising guru. Her expertise runs deep, with a degree in advertising from UT and 13 years of experience working at ad agencies and radio and TV stations in Dallas and Austin. In her current role at AFF, Susan feels blessed to be able to use her advertising experience
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In view of current medical science and the encouragement of Scripture for wholeness, we may have confidence in a healthcare practice that seeks to remove interferences from the natural healing process, trusting that the body knows how to heal. Dr. Joe Henry Rodriguez Pure Chiropractic Wellness purechiropracticwellness.com
So why are so many people experiencing sickness and pain even at younger and younger ages? Could it be that when the spinal bones are out of alignment, placing pressure on the nerves going to tissues and organs, much like a crimp in a
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Susan Stern
water hose, this is a major factor in the cause of disease and is in fact blocking the body’s ability to communicate and heal? Chiropractic says, “Yes.” A century ago, D.D. Palmer questioned the current state of health in his day and made a wonderful discovery that launched a healing art that works to restore normal function and homeostasis. The pure and simple philosophy of D. D. Palmer’s chiropractic is in keeping with the ultimate purpose, “to connect man physical to man spiritual.” The principled wellness chiropractor values the complex and beautiful design of the body and believes that the tremendous power that made the body also heals the body.
to help faith and family friendly businesses reach a quality audience while supporting the Christcentered mission of the magazine. She lives in East Austin with her husband Todd, daughter Salem, their yellow lab Bentley, and big orange cat Monty.
Strength for the Family, Hope for the City
If you'd like to find out more about advertising your business in AFF, send Susan an email and she'll be glad to help you!
susan@austinfaithandfamily.com AUSTIN
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Health A n
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Healthy Indeed
I mpossible
ne of the most healing and revitalizing experiences we can have on a daily basis is a good night’s sleep, but as many as 20% to 30% of American adults struggle with it regularly. Statistics show that it gets worse as we age. There are about ten million adults currently taking prescription medications to help them sleep, and many more taking over the counter sleep aids. Are you one of them? There are no guaranteed cures to insomnia as far as I know, but below I offer some simple effective natural ways to deal with this important issue. Is Your Bedroom Environment Conducive to Good Sleep? Are your mattress, pillow, bed sheet and cover comfortable? Reduce light sources in the early morning with curtains and eye masks. Adjust the room temperature to match the cover you use during the appropriate season. Experts advise us not to use the bedroom as a part of our office. Help your mind associate the bedroom only with pleasurable experiences and sleep! Got A Sleepy Routine? – Maintaining a regular sleep schedule is important for setting a proper biological clock rhythm. Regular exercise helps deepen sleep, but strenuous exercise should be avoided within 2-3 hours of bed time. Avoid drinking too many fluids before bedtime to minimize bathroom visits. A small cup of hot non-caffeinated drink (for example, a calming tea, such as chamomile, kava kava, valerian, or passion flower) before bedtime may be very helpful. Reading God’s Word is a great way to enter into a restful state of mind.
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D ream ?
Got a Busy Mind that Won’t Shut Off? – Researchers believe that GABA (GammaAminoButyric Acid) may slow the activity of neurons associated with acute agitation, anxiety, panic, pain and possibly even cravings. In short, it may help you get to sleep faster as it prevents neurons from over-stimulating the brain -and nervous system. Serotonin Deficiency? The most common food sources of serotonin are free-range turkey, Omega 3 supplementation or grass-fed beef, fish and chicken. Though not fully understood, scientists have found that proteins taken with vegetables, nuts, milk, beans, peas, avocados or bananas help to increase serotonin levels as well. A hearty evening meal combining meat, vegetables, and fruits high in tryptophan may be the right order for a sound night’s sleep. Melatonin as a Regular Sleep Aid? – Melatonin supplements are now one of the most sought after natural sleep aids because of its non-addictive ability to promote deep sleep. Studies have shown that melatonin helped insomniac individuals fall asleep faster, remain asleep longer, and have greater energy levels when they awoke. It should be used on a short terms to adjust the biological body clock when needed, and should not be used on a long term basis. Prescription & Over-The-Counter Sleeping Pills – The common issue with these drugs is they can easily lead to dependency and addiction. Furthermore, they all have clearly stated contraindications with potential side
Strength for the Family, Hope for the City
effects of anxiety, nausea, drowsiness, depression, irritability, memory loss, panic attacks, paranoia and even hallucinations. Prescription or over-thecounter sleeping aids all have toxicity effects on our bodies. Natural Alternative Sleep Aids – Valerian, passion flower, and hops are three popular and effective nervine and sedative herbs. You can use them individually or in combination in the form of tea, or in encapsulated ready-to-swallow pills (Herbal Sleep). Be mindful that valerian has a distinctive unpleasant odor as it releases its active ingredient. There are many other natural alternative herbs, products and ways to help you sleep better. Don’t hesitate to seek help. More importantly…. “Dear friend, I pray that you may enjoy good health and that all may go well with you, even as your soul is getting along well.” 3 John 1:2 (NIV)
Paul Tsui, N.D.
Natural Wellness Round Rock and Cedar Park healthyindeed@gmail.com www.healthyindeed.com This article is written for information and education purposes only. It is not to be used as diagnosis, treatment or prescription. The products and information described herein are natural foods which are NOT meant to treat, cure, diagnose, or prevent any disease. Please seek for medical help immediately for any health concerns.
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cityscene
Back to School Blessing!
Helping Hands-Austin Organization set up at the Dell Diamond in Round Rock on Saturday, August 13, to give away clothes, books, shoes, and school supplies. LaKissa Bright created this organization with the goal of giving to children in need - free of charge.
LaKissa Bright (right)
Long lines await their turn to receive
Volunteers hold signs to indicate sizes
www.helpinghandsaustin.org | 512-310-1733
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