Austin Faith & Family August by Lee Eddins

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Faith&Family august

2011

SAM ACHO "called to be a leader in the locker room and in the city"

Tips for Packing Healthy School Lunches

Surviving a Family Road Trip

YOU CAN Overcome Depression

Dos & Don'ts

for Back to School

Please recycle or pass along to a friend

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August 2011 How Far Teamwork Can Take You

Sam Acho

is called to the game

7 Tips for Packing Healthy Lunches

Faith

contents

9 Body Life:

Along the Way: The Gift of Showing Up

Head to Heart: The Church and Depression Part 2

Diet & Nutrition: Natural Remedies for Constipation

Healthy Indeed: Back to School Already?

Fa mily

Practical Parenting: Family Road Trip

Living to the Max: The 5 Essentials of Maximized Living

Special This Month

18 A Few Good Men:

BACK TO SCHOOL Assumptions: Don't Make Them

19 Journey for Two:

It's In the Bag: Packing Healthy School Lunches

16 22

Preparing for Middle School

Tweet Hour of Prayer

Health

It Takes a Team!

What Twitter Can Do for Our Prayer Lives

10 Ways to Be Prepared for the School Year

The Family Universe

Life

25 Ladies Top 10:

School Serenity

26 Erin's Cooking:

Cover Story: Sam Acho, Fully Convinced

24 Plan a Little, Save a Lot! 38 Teen Court: A Jury of Their Peers

The Simple Life

27 Life Changers:

Under the Hood Angel

Getting the Most Out of Your Life www.AustinFaithandFamily.com

28 Spend Life Well:

Back to School and Your Family's Finances

8 32 20 30

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Monthly Favorites The Source Directory

20 Words: School Year Resolutions Austin Community Calendar Rave Reviews AUSTIN

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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 Miranda Bradley | 512.924.3911 Miranda@AustinFaithandFamily.com Rene Dorsey | 512.573.5532 Rene@AustinFaithandFamily.com Contributing Writers Marcy Lytle, Trent Peng, Kie Bowman, Ginny Hurley, Mark Trice, John Pound, Erin Osborn, Georganne Schuch, David & Lynn Cherry, Jack Hammans, Al Jones, Gary Sinclair, Rene Dorsey, Laura Bezden, Paul Tsui, Mike Giles, Joe Rodriguez, Miranda Bradley, Camille Peeples 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 3

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Editor's Note Take 5

think August must be one of the busiest months of the year for everyone. If you have kids, you’re preparing for back-to-school. If your kids are grown, you might be planning one more trip before the fall to escape the summer heat, and if you’re single and still in college, you definitely are busy getting that schedule nailed down, or scurrying to squeeze in another week of fun before you hit the books! So now that we know you’re all busy, let me encourage you to make the time to read, to feed your soul. Busy-ness adds stress to our bodies, minds, and spirits, and sometimes all it takes is a good read that speaks rest and encouragement, to give us strength for our daily lives. I may be biased, but I think our writers put out some great articles each month. Check out “Tweet Hour of Prayer” and see how to effectively use social media in your prayer life! And even though our children consume most of our free time, couples are reminded that it’s the marriage that is the key to a healthy family in “The Family Universe” article. Are you planning a weekend road trip with the kids before classes begin? Before you do, read the Practical Parenting article for some great tips on how to survive in the car. We’ve also included some great back-to-school “food for thought” – so check out every page in this month’s issue! Ever thought of making school year resolutions? If the dog days of summer have you feeling hot and blue, if the endless list of things you thought you’d get done this summer is still staring you in the face, or if you are overwhelmed with life at the moment – take five. Take five minutes to read one story. And do this often. Keep the August issue of Austin Faith & Family out in full view so that it’s there for you, like the comfort of a cool glass of iced tea when the sun is setting on yet another day…

Letters Hi, I am a big fan of your magazine and read it cover to cover. I find strength and encouragement along with great information! I especially like everything from the opening of the first page to the end of the last page! Lisa M.

Marcy Lytle Editor, Austin Faith & Family

Dear Marcy, Thank you for your interest and your continual commitment to Christ and excellence in your publication. Camille P.

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Faith

Body Life Along the Way Head to Heart

9 10 12

Body Life:

It Takes a Team!

’m an old Dallas Mavericks fan. I like the Spurs, too, but I usually get most excited about whoever is winning. I know that’s not a great trait, but I’m just being honest with you – I like to hang around winners! This year the Dallas team won the NBA Championship by beating out three great young stars on the Miami Heat. I have to admit, when I first saw this year’s Mavs team I thought, “This looks like a bunch of OLD all-stars from about 8-10 years ago!” Many of them had either failed at a shot at winning the championship in the past, or had just worked hard on teams that never made it. But none had won it before. They weren’t the most talented and they didn’t have the youngest bodies. The one trait that this team had, perhaps from their years of experience, was that they knew how to play as a team. The evidence was the amount of passing they did, working unselfishly as a team, until someone had a good, clear shot at the basket. God is all about teams. In fact HE is a TEAM! The Trinity is made up of three persons living together in perfect unity. They have the same mind, heart, and will – they are three in one. They have designed us to live the same way, and one day we will live in perfect unity with them. So He knows team. And He knows that for us to function well in this life, we have to do it as a team. Every worthwhile endeavor in life will at some point involve a team. God has created us not for independence, but for interdependence. We are made to be dependent on Him and interdependent on one another. It is an eternal pattern.

righteousness (doing things God’s way) can be developed. • Real community can take place on a team – life-long relationships can grow there. But we have to do it God’s way or we can end up with harmful and ineffective experiences. No doubt, most of us have experienced enough of that.

The Bible is full of examples of teams. In the Garden of Eden it was Adam and Eve – with a third member of the team – God himself. In Egypt, it was Moses and Aaron. God was there, too. (Get the picture?)In the wilderness it was Moses and Joshua. Jesus sent out his disciples two by two (with the accompanying Holy Spirit.) In Acts 13 the Holy Spirit called Barnabas and Paul to go out as a team of apostles. It was Paul and Silas in the jail. And there are many others. Healthy teams have many benefits: • • •

•

They provide places where we can multiply our effectiveness by working with others. They offer good opportunities for growth and development. Good teams yield to the strengths of their individual members and cover their weaknesses. In fact, really good teams provide places of safety where trust is developed and confidentiality is maintained. Collaboration replaces competition in God’s kind of teams, and a whole culture of

Maybe it’s time for you to join a team. BTW, if you’re married, you’re already on one! Do you run your family like a team, yielding to each other’s strengths and covering each other in areas of weakness? Things sure go a lot better when you do. You can even see your older children as members of the team, giving them opportunity to contribute. They have gifts, too, that are beyond just taking out the trash. Most of them really enjoy contributing in a meaningful way. Perhaps you need to join a team at a local church, working with others to expand God’s kingdom in our culture. Pray about it and choose carefully. Don’t be afraid to give it some time. Just because someone is a great person doesn’t mean they will be a good fit on a particular team. Find the one that is right for you. Don’t isolate – participate! God loves it when we work together for Him and His way. He loves team!

John Pound Pastor, New Hope Community Church

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Faith

Along the Way

The Gift of Showing Up

here were you in ’72? Richard Nixon was the President, the Vietnam War was raging, and the country still had a draft. And Jeff Mellinger was a 19-year old construction worker in Eugene, Oregon. That year, like thousands of others before him, Jeff received his draft notice. He didn’t want to go to the army, but for him there was no choice. That was nearly 40 years ago and now Command Sargent Major Jeffrey Mellinger is retiring. The thing that makes this particular soldier’s retirement unique is that draft notice from 1972. Jeff Mellinger is the last active duty soldier ever drafted who is still in the army. Others were drafted after him, but all of them have since left the military by now. Jeff Mellinger stayed. His story is remarkable, not because of his 3700 parachute jumps or his service in Iraq, but because he stayed with it for so long. He is the last of his kind. Sometimes in life, success is measured by how willing we are to continue on and not give up.

Persistence is a theme that inspires us. Whether it is the story of Christopher Columbus sailing west, even when conventional maritime wisdom said he would sail over the edge of the earth’s flat surface, or Cal Ripken Jr.’s amazing streak of playing a record 2,632 consecutive games as a Major League Baseball player, those who refuse to quit remind us we can do more. Their example teaches us the value of “showing up.” In other words, persistent people “show up” continually and do what is expected of them. Earlier this summer, a weird coincidence made national news when two former Disneyland coworkers died within a day of each other in different states, living by then, separate, unrelated lives. Betty Taylor was 91 years old, living in Washington State, when she died only one day after her former co-worker Wally Boag, age 90, died in Santa Monica, California. The two had starred in the roles of “Slue Foot Sue” and “Pecos Bill” in what the Guinness Book of World Records listed as the longest running stage show in entertainment history. The

show, called Golden Horseshoe Revue, never earned the stars Academy Awards. These stars weren’t well known like actors on television or in movies. Wally Boag was a former vaudeville performer who, in 1955, agreed to a two-week contract with Walt Disney. The comedic role he originated of “Pecos Bill” lasted until his retirement in 1982. By that time, Boag had taken the stage three times a day for almost 30 years logging almost 40,000 performances. His co-star, Betty Taylor, was a drummer in a musical group in Los Angeles in 1956. She auditioned as a singer and dancer with Disneyland, eventually playing the role of “Slue Foot Sue” five days a week, three times a day for 30 years in almost 45,000 performances! Those two had “the gift of showing up.” I was once reminded of Paul’s words in Ephesians 6:13, “Therefore put on the full armor of God, so that when the day of evil comes, you may be able to stand your ground, and after you have done everything, to stand.” The one who reminded me confidently said, “There’s something to be said for just standing.” Do you have a job you don’t enjoy? Are there problems at home? Does it ever seem like it would be easier to just give up? No doubt in some cases a career change is the best option. In some situations, family dynamics cannot be ignored. Often, however, the best thing in the work place or in the family is the need for more, not less, reliability and persistence even in the face of difficult and demanding conditions. Maybe you cannot count on the people around you, but you can be a person everyone else can count on. In order to reap the best benefits in life, consistency and persistence are always preferred over the alternatives. With persistence in doing the right thing, you can give “the gift of showing up.”

Dr. Kie Bowman Pastor, Hyde Park Baptist Church

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Faith

Along the Way

Part 2

n last month’s article I began to address the issue of depression in the Body of Christ. I myself experienced an episode of major depression in 1994, and have had a few less severe bouts of it in the years since. From my own experience of this emotional illness, I describe it as “solitary confinement of the soul.” Like solitary confinement in a literal prison, major depression is: · Involuntary—no one asks to be thrown into the dungeon of clinical depression. It is very damaging to say to someone who has plucked up the courage to admit to being depressed, “You shouldn’t feel that way,” because the depression sufferer really can’t help it. · Isolating—a depressed person feels emotionally disconnected even from their closest family members or friends. They feel condemned forever to an existence of terrifying loneliness. The psychic pain can become so intense that a person becomes obsessed with “dark thoughts” of death or suicide. · Incapacitating—depression slows down the mental processes so much that it seems that one’s thoughts are “moving through molasses.” A depressed person may feel so physically lethargic that it requires strength of effort to do mundane daily tasks like combing his hair or brushing her teeth. Depression shuts down the “joy center” of the brain so that a person is incapable of experiencing the simple pleasures of life. Because depression is a common and growing problem among Christians (including pastors) in our culture, it is imperative that the stigma so long attached to it in the church be eradicated. I believe there are four major requirements for overcoming the stigma of depression in the church. I

mentioned three in my last article: (1) dispelling the myth that real Christians can’t be depressed; (2) educating Christians about the symptoms of depression; (3) educating Christians about the causes of depression. The fourth requirement for overcoming the stigma of depression in the church is the educating of Christians about how its sufferers can experience healing. Christians who are showing symptoms of clinical depression should be encouraged to consult with a doctor to determine if they need to be temporarily treated with anti-depressant medication, which can help stabilize the emotions. During the last 20 years, research into brain chemistry has produced a group of highly specific antidepressant drugs that have few side-effects, are not addictive, and work quickly to alleviate the symptoms of depression. Like many other Christians, I was at first extremely reluctant to seek medical help for my depression. When I finally saw a Christian psychiatrist, he compassionately listened to my description of my condition, quickly diagnosed it, and prescribed medication, which within a few weeks stabilized my moods and reactivated the “joy center” of my brain. Christian sufferers of depression should be no less willing to seek medical treatment for it than for migraine headaches, arthritis, or diabetes.

It is essential to understand that merely treating the symptoms of chemical imbalance in a case of depression will not result in long term recovery. Medical treatment with appropriate medication must be combined with scripturally based and Spirit directed ministry to deal with the underlying emotional and relationship causes of depression. In my own situation, there were several unacknowledged problems that the Enemy used to set me up for depression: generational curses, childhood emotional wounds, repressed grief over some significant losses in my life, and ministry addiction. I learned that victory in the battle with depression often requires employing a two-front strategy: on the one front – medical help, and on the other front – spiritual help, through pastoral counseling and inner healing ministry. The role of Christian friends in the treatment of a depressed believer is vitally important. Every depressed person needs the kind of friend described by Joyce Hurggett: “…someone who does not tire of listening to their main topic of conversation—themselves. Someone who will assure them that even though they, the listener, my have nothing useful to say, they are prepared to stay in the darkness with the person suffering from depression until they emerge eventually from the tunnel’s end.” Through the darkest days of my major depression, there were two Christians whose concern and prayers were indispensable in my recovery. From my experience of depression, I learned that it can be (to borrow a phrase from C.S. Lewis) “a severe mercy” of God, through which he brings deep healing to wounds of our soul hidden to ourselves and equips us to be more effective wounded healers of others in the Body of Christ. Jack Hammans Head to Heart Ministries www.headtoheart.org

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O T K C A B L O O H C S

Assumptions: Don't S

ome parents send their kids to public school and assume their kids are being taken care of, protected, and given good material to learn. Other parents opt for Christian private schools and assume since Bible is a course taught there, the kids will get plenty of spiritual nourishment and grow up to be fine Christians. And still many parents choose to home school, assuming if their kids are protected and kept from “the world,” then these children will be models for all other children in behavior, intellect, and character. However, it would be wise to examine our assumptions from time to time. I’m a strong advocate of one parent being home with the children when they arrive home from school. I also think it’s a good idea for the parent to be the driver, not the grown-up on the bus. And it’s ultimately the parent who is responsible for making sure their child gets to school and learns in a good environment. Teachers can’t make this happen. Public schools don’t have the staff to “care” for each child like he is their own, but YOU do. You are the parent. Watch over the friends that “hang out” with your son, read the books that are assigned to your daughter, with your daughter, so you can be aware of objectionable material, and by all means be around at the end of the day and during dinner, so conversations can be started and heard. I had kids go to both Christian private school and public school. Christian schools can be great, but again – it’s not the teacher’s job to enhance your child’s spiritual growth. That’s YOUR job, and you are to be the example. If you assume your child will mature spiritually from reading the Bible in class, quoting cool sayings from the classics, and feeding on high morality, you may be in for a surprise – IF you are not providing the

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foundation from which all other learning sprouts. Your kids need to hear you discuss the scripture with them, they need prayer time for needs, and praise time for blessings, and they need just as much protection and awareness as offered by the parent of a public school kid. Christian schools might provide excellent teaching, but that is only one aspect of learning, and only one aspect of education.

Home School is popular. Some parents keep their kids home out of strong conviction, which is admirable. Some are afraid of what’s “out there” and they feel they must protect their children from the evil lurking in the hallways at public schools. And I’ve observed that some parents home school because it’s the “thing to do,” and the parents themselves are undisciplined, so the kids and the family suffer. Home schooling can be great, IF it’s done correctly, and IF it’s what’s right for YOUR family. However, sometimes kids can become isolated from other children and lonely, some children will “act out” because they are not stimulated enough, and yet others can develop Strength for the Family, Hope for the City

Make Them an attitude that they are “set apart” and therefore, somehow better than other kids. This is not what we want, is it? It’s never wise to say ALL kids should attend public school, because there are too many variables. Some schools are just unsafe, or have extreme discipline problems. However, it is wise to pray about it, ask God where your kids fit, and then trust him to provide good friends, good teachers, and a pleasant experience. But YOU need to be there to make sure this happens. It’s not mandatory that Christian kids attend Christian schools. Christian schools are great, and if you’ve prayed about it (and can afford the tuition), and this is where your child lands – then go for it. However, don’t let “religion” and bible courses take the place of living in a “relationship” with Christ in front of them, and with them. And finally, not everyone can home school, nor do some parents desire to be with their kids all day long. It’s just out of the question! But some do, and it works out just perfectly – FOR THEM. However, it’s vitally important, for the health of the child, to keep him connected with friends, make him aware of others, and invite neighbor kids over to play, WITHOUT judgment. The best observation I’ve made is that when kids from home, private, and public school connect together – and they all appreciate the strengths and differences that each one brings to the group – that itself is indicative of good parenting and it makes for good kids. That’s an education worth striving for. Marcy Lytle

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IT'S IN THE BAG

PACKING HEALTHY SCHOOL LUNCHES

chool mornings can be hectic. I’m guilty of slapping together a peanut butter and jelly sandwich, tossing it in a paper bag with some chips, and calling it lunch. And, while that’s not terrible on occasion, it’s certainly not the healthy meal I had planned for my child when I decided to forgo the usually fatty cafeteria lunch for “homemade.” That’s why I started researching ideas early. I stumbled over a few really nice ideas that I plan to keep stuck on my refrigerator for those days when I feel less than motivated to provide the healthier alternative. These are easy, healthy options for kids of all ages.

Keep It Simple, Silly – In searching for other choices besides PB&J, I often find that I am overdoing it just a little. I seem to gravitate to one extreme or the other – either overly simple or overly complicated. Somewhere in between is just fine for my 7-year old, and my 3-year old toddler. So, moms, keep it simple but interesting, and you’ll do just fine!

Protein-Packed – Because I have two boys, I know how much energy they burn. They need to have options besides the old peanut butter standby to give them the kind of stamina they need throughout the day. Try a cheese stick with a small cup of tuna salad. Or sliced meat and veggies in a pita pocket is a quick and tasty sandwich alternative. If you have to use peanut butter, do so as a dipping sauce for apples, or even celery. Quick. Easy. And simple!

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Planning Ahead – This is where I fail miserably. I just can’t seem to tear myself away from Modern Family long enough to focus the five minutes it takes to prepare my kids’ meals ahead of time. But if I do, then I save myself a lot of headaches and trouble in the mornings. Not to mention, I have more time to spend loving on the little cherubs before they head out the door. So, I’m vowing to make a change. This year I will make Sunday my preparation days. Filling plastic containers with yogurt and fruit takes just a snap, and I can store these in the fridge. Each day, one container makes it into the lunchbox with very little hassle. Another idea is to pack and freeze peas, green beans, or corn in small containers. These will thaw in time to make a healthful, not to mention delightful, snack.

Heat ‘n Serve – It’s hard to imagine in the thick of summer’s heat, but the cold days are coming. For those, I plan to make enough dinner on Sunday to separate into lunch leftovers for the kids. These can be heated quickly in the morning and placed in a thermos so they are ready when my kids are. Some thermos containers are now made like bowls with a hidden spoon compartment so everything is easily accessible and packs away nicely.

Viva Veggies – Luckily, my kids both love carrots with Ranch dressing. Packing these together along with my yogurt selections varies the menu a bit, but allows for ease of packing. Pick your child’s favorite vegetable and pair it with dressing. Just a hint: everything goes with Ranch!

Chill Out – Since we will be suffering with more hot days well into October, let’s make sure we have some cold options on hand. A smoothie in a thermos makes for a delicious lunchtime treat. Pair it with wheat crackers, sliced cheese, turkey, and a small dessert item, and we’ve got one heck of a meal!

Fast Fix – While all of these ideas don’t take too much time or effort, you always need those uber-quick fixes. Save these for Fridays. Make them fun. If you have pizza on Thursday, save a slice and put it in your child’s lunch. Pasta in fun shapes makes for an easy meal, especially if paired with a yummy dressing for dipping. Preparing healthy lunches for your school-age child doesn’t have to be grueling or even time consuming. With a few helpful ideas in your back pocket, you’ll be the star of the lunchroom, or, at least your child will be. And the best part? You don’t have to give up your PB&J standby altogether.

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Miranda Bradley

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Preparing for Middle School Shop Together

Include your tween in back to school shopping trips. Allowing them choices in schools supplies and new school clothes helps them feel more independent. You can use shopping for school as a teachable moment regarding money. If there is a set amount of money that can be spent on new school clothes, you can help them make wise choices that fit your budget. It is also helpful to purchase extra school supplies to use throughout the year. This can prevent the late evening run to the store when they need a poster board or markers for a project due the next morning.

or the pre-teen or tween, the idea of moving from elementary school to middle school is filled with excitement, fear, and many mixed emotions. As a parent, you can help your tween prepare for the challenges of the middle school change.

Address Your Child’s Fears about Middle School Talk with your tween about middle school and the new school year with enthusiasm and excitement. The fears that they face may seem insignificant to you, but they are very real to them. They worry about finding their classes, opening their locker, dressing in gym class, and new school rules. Allow them the opportunity to express what they are feeling. Discuss many of the changes that come with middle school, as peer pressure, homework, and responsibilities all increase.

Visit the School Most schools are open for several weeks prior to the start of the school year. Take time to contact the school for a tour. You and a staff member

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can show your tween the classrooms, cafeteria, gymnasium, restrooms, etc. If your child’s schedule is available, you can tour the school by walking through their day. If your tween walks or rides the bus to school, make sure they are comfortable with the route and know how to contact someone for help in the case of an emergency.

Establish a Routine A week or so before school starts reestablish set curfews and bedtimes. Although your child is growing older, he or she still needs between 9 and 10 hours of sleep a night. Adequate sleep increases ability to focus during the day. Help your tween become more organized with the upcoming school routine by establishing a family calendar. A detailed calendar that includes the times for school, homework, and activities will help with decision making. Show them how to use a day planner to track homework assignments. Remember to also allow time for independence, relaxation, and friends.

Talk About Bullying Bullying tends to peak in the sixth grade. Take time to talk to your tween about bullying. Reassure them that telling you or a teacher if they are being bullied is OK. As a parent, learn the signs of bullying so that if necessary, you can quickly take action. With some planning, clear communication, and enthusiasm, your tween will be well prepared when the first bell rings.

Al Jones, Ph.D.

Head to Heart Ministries www.headtoheart.org

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Practical Parenting:

Fa mily

Practical Parenting A Few Good Men Journey for Two

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Family Road Trip... Surviving in the Car S

ummer is the time for traveling. Many families take vacations and generally do more driving during the summer. This summer we took what should have been a 12 hour trip to another state. I say should have been, because it didn't come even close to 12 hours. However, we survived, and now I have a few tips for other families on road trips. First, pack snacks. There is no telling how old the snacks are in some gas stations. They really should dust more often. And why pay for water? We don't drink sodas, and honestly, is it wise to give a child a sugar-laden drink in a confined space? So, a cooler is standard equipment on our long trips. We pack milk for the toddlers, water bottles for the rest of us, and non-crumbly, non-mushy, and non-meltable snacks, which limits our picks. Snack crackers are favorites, not chips. Fruit bars are good, but granola bars usually crumble too much; and we take already cut fruit, like strawberries, pineapple, and blueberries. Pack small cups to serve the fruit. I forgot that, and paid for it during

Saturday, August 20 2:00-4:00pm Austin Faith & Family's Editor

Marcy Lytle

will be selling her family devotional book Catching Fireflies.

the post-trip cleanup. Don't include chocolate or yogurt unless you want the kids to fingerpaint the windows. I'll pass. If you don't want to stop for a meal, make sandwiches in advance. Peanut butter and jelly are my favorite. They are still edible when mushed, as often happens in a cooler. Second, prepare for bathroom stops. I hate public bathrooms, but there is no way around them on a road trip. When we stop, everyone goes whether they “need” to or not. Nothing is more infuriating than having someone suddenly need to stop 30 minutes after the last stop. My standard phrase is “Hold it.” It takes a long time for five children to go to the bathroom. I send them two by two, an older one with a younger one, to reduce the amount of playing that usually occurs in the bathroom. Really, what is so fascinating about a bathroom? While I ask if everyone washed their hands, I still pass around the hand sanitizer back in the car. I inherited my bathroom phobia from my mother (and that’s all I have to say about that!) Third, plan some form of distraction or entertainment. My husband threatens to put out of the car any child who asks, “Are we there yet?” more than 50 times. He has actually stopped on the side of the road to emphasize his point, though he wasn't really going to put the child out...I think. One time we took a portable DVD player with movies. This isn't my favorite form of distraction on a long trip because a movie only lasts about 70 minutes and requires human intervention between selections. Additionally, it is difficult to station the screen in a van where everyone can see it well. Sound is another problem. One of our children has low hearing and no one else really wants the sound to blow them out of the car just for her. Instead, we are addicted to audiobooks. One year we took several Hank, The Cowdog recordings, which is a dangerous selection. I almost wrecked us from laughing so hard at Hank's description of

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a calving. I realize not everyone would find it as humorous as I did, but if you know dogs and cows, well, it was pretty funny. This year we took Swiss Family Robinson. I don't think I've ever read the entire book because it was long, very long. But we loved it. Many classics, such as this, are in the public domain and can be downloaded for free from librivox.org. One tip, if you download an audiobook to your MP3 player, make sure the shuffle feature is turned off. The chapters flow better that way. Finally, you may already know this, but all children are not born travelers. The volume of a screaming child increases with each echo in an enclosed car. We all tried various ways to calm the beast, but she struggled the entire trip. The more tired she got, the more irritable she became. Instead of crying herself to sleep, she became hyped up more. Might I suggest ear plugs? I would have paid a premium for a pair. I don't have a good tip for this problem except a lot of prayer and patience. I have to give her the benefit of the doubt. It was her first long car ride, and we had various problems that complicated the trip. I hope she does better next time…but I plan on bringing those ear plugs, just in case. Traveling with children requires lots of planning and a little flexibility. Plan for the basics and keep your cool. Georganne Schuch www.blog.coffeedogz.net

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Fa mily tweet hour of prayer A Few Good Men

ey guys, when you think of Facebook, Twitter, Myspace and other social media do you get excited or panic? Do you want to know more or do you wish they all would just disappear? Does the touchy-feely part of people’s comments fire you up or make you want to throw up? Whatever your response, those communication vehicles are likely here to stay. Sure, they will probably evolve, change names, join forces, or spawn new concepts we haven't thought about as yet, but people will continue to use them. And yes, people misuse them, overuse them and abuse them. But there’s an opportunity here in social media that we men would be wise to consider and which would likely grow us spiritually in the process. Have you ever considered using a Facebook or Twitter feed as a prayer guide? Think about it. Many of the postings are related to what’s going on in people’s lives. Some of it of course is just fun and silly. A lot of items are plain annoying. But many of the comments are prayer requests, people seeking help, or friends looking for wisdom. As a result, during the past few months I have started to regularly pray for people that I connect with on my pages. Some of them specifically ask for prayer about something in their lives. However, I pray for others as I see or hear about the events going on in their world. They tell me about their child going to college, their trip to Florida, a new ministry opportunity, or a family celebration. Others have more dire issues such as family matters, cancer, or a job loss. Whether people share too much information or not isn’t really

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the issue. As Christ followers and friends, we can certainly pray. I have two Twitter accounts these days both comprised of largely non-Christians and people I don’t know. My Keep Climbing Twitter page (@hopeclimber) gets a lot of posts about people who are hurting, have terminal illnesses, or are simply discouraged because life is hard. Almost daily I get to respond to someone and just let them know I’m praying, and invariably I get a response of “Thanks!” I have never heard someone say, “Please don’t pray for me.” When I see their name or situation, I pray for them right then. The prayer doesn’t need to be long but it’s important. Where it’s appropriate I pass it on to others, which expands the prayer impact. In fact, there may be no better way right now to grow a prayer project by multiplication than through social media. In addition, my willingness to pray for them has allowed me entrance into the world of hundreds of people who I don't even know but who are encouraged and will perhaps consider Christ, because I pray. Think of the prayer impact there would be if just 50,000 people made online praying a priority! Imagine what could happen if men’s groups used Facebook to share requests that the group was willing to make more public! What if some techsavvy men were willing to think of new ways to use social media to help people pray for others in their own communities, workplaces, churches, and cities? What if prayer literally spread around the world in new ways, because instead of the social media “junk” out there, people saw a movement of men praying for each other and for others? Think of how the verse “Pray without ceasing” would take on new meaning as people stopped

in the middle of their social media surfing and prayed. The possibilities are endless and almost mindboggling. However, it will take a few good men to get the process to the next level. It will mean that more of us guys will need to get serious (not obsessive) about using social media, especially if we don’t like it. It will require a significant group of men to take the lead on this, promote it in their workplaces, homes, small groups, and churches in general. If you’re new at it just, start with one site – Facebook or Twitter – or whatever. Sign up and get going. Learn the lingo. It’s not hard. It will also take some church leaders to rally other church leaders to teach their people to do the same and turn an essentially secular idea into another vehicle that our creative God can use for good. So get started. Share this article with someone you know. The world is waiting for us to pray. God knows we all need it.

Gary Sinclair http://www.keepclimbing.net

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Journey for Two

Fa mily

lanet earth rotates around the sun, an established fact of astronomy. But in 1633 Italian scientist Galileo was labeled a heretic for his support of the sun-centered model. In fact, he spent his last years under house arrest for challenging the earth-centered world of Aristotle. We have some earth shaking news for your family universe. As much as it appears to be so, the family does not revolve around the children. Your marriage is central to the health of the family.

The Black Hole There is a vacuum, more powerful than any black hole at the center of your family. If you do not give priority to your marriage, something else will take that place. It could be a career, or accumulation, but most often it will be the children. I admit it feels noble. I remember as a new mom thinking, “My baby is helpless, completely dependent on me, and my husband is a grown up. He is perfectly capable of fixing his own dinner.” It sounded right. It made sense. But left uncontested, this mindset will truly warp the family as God designed it. If adjustments are not made, Mom and Dad will soon be living in parallel, but separate worlds.

Little Suns Granted, when a child is first born into a family, he/she takes on a prominent role. Children are a gift. God calls them a reward (Psalm 127:3). As infants, those sweet gifts require much of our energy and focus. We wouldn’t have it any other way. But there comes a day when we need to break free of their orbit! Honestly, I think this may be easier for husbands. Perhaps the nurturing nucleus of a woman pulls her like gravity toward a child-centered life. Society doesn’t help much. No one praises the parents who choose date night

over dance lessons. We celebrate, commend, and create three minute video clips for parents who stay up all night cleaning bathrooms and sleeping in the van while their future Olympian is at the gym. I always feel like a pathetic parent during the Olympics…but then I wonder…do gold medal hopes sustain a marriage?

A Strong Core In Ephesians 5 we read about the importance of marital unity. Two do not become one without great intention. Later Paul instructs children to obey and honor their parents. It’s easy to see God’s chain of command. Of course in chapter 1 we read that WE are God’s children…adopted as his sons and daughters through Jesus Christ. The family is built on the foundation of His love. It is strengthened when we follow His design. We make it a point to tell our boys that it is in their best interest that Dad and Mom are deeply connected. We also offer our future baby-sitting assistance when our sons become the parents needing to get away!

Shooting Stars In Kid CEO, Ed Young defines parenting as “the process of teaching and training your children

to leave.” Our goal is to equip them for life on their own. We wonder how many empty-nesters struggle to get reacquainted after 20 years of kid-centered living. Imagine a couple driving home from dropping their baby off at college with nothing to say to each other. We hope to avoid those awkward silences. We want to celebrate our children launching into the world without wondering what we’ll have in common when they’re gone. We know that now is the time to build a life that we will enjoy sharing for generations to come. It’s easy to love our children. We have this innate ability to welcome them into our world. We choose to love our mate and we honor that choice by valuing our marriage as the central relationship of the family universe. We secure the future of our family when we invest in our marriage.

Try this: Take a brutal analysis of your schedule. Are the kids’ activities taking over any hope of time together? Prioritize your marriage on the family calendar. Build a shared life outside of parenting by trying new things together, just the two of you! With all this talk about the universe, black holes and stars…call a babysitter, pack a picnic and plan a cheap date stargazing! Download a monthly guide at skymaps.com.

David & Lynn Cherry Staff, Shoreline Church

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Submit calendar entries to Marcy@AustinFaithandFamily.com

by the 15th of the preceding month. August 1

August 9

Vacation Bible School - Shake It Up Cafe 9:00a to 12:00p at Manchaca United Methodist Church, Manchaca. In this exciting week, your kids will explore the Bible as an exciting cookbook filled with recipes for living out God's Word.

August 10

Mighty Fine Date Night - from 6:00p - 10:00p hosted by Committed.net at Mighty Fine - Arbor Walk, Sunset Valley, University Oaks. Join us at any Mighty Fine restaurant every Monday night in August and learn how to love again! Enjoy a couples date night, good food, special gifts, etc.

August 13

Christian Art Summer Program - 8:00p at Christian Aunts and Uncles, Youth Summer Program, Austin. Christian Aunts and Uncles will hold their signature Summer Art Program to foster spiritual wisdom by using the arts. Participants will have a unique art project each week for 10 weeks.

August 2

Family Link Kids - We are having CPR and 1st Aid Certification Class from 6:30p - 9:00p in our Austin office! FamilyLink volunteer orientation from 5:30p - 6:30p the same day.

August 3

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. Admission is by donation.

August 4

Fairy Tale Threads – Come shop for children’s toys, clothes and gear at this 5-day event – Old Settlers Association, 3300 Palm Valley Blvd in Round Rock - benefits the Round rock Area Serving Center – nonprofits are invited to join! www.fairytalethreads.com.

August 6

Kid’s Summer Paint-Out Day at the Austin Zoo! 10:30a to 12:00p at Austin Zoo. Come have some cool summer fun with your kids on our Summer Paint-out Day. Events include a walking tour with artist/photographer, Debra Barton; then back to the Education Building to paint a picture of the animals. Safety Fair at Highland Mall – 11a to 3p - Learn about safety by community experts in a fun and interactive environment. Explore a variety of safety vehicles, visit a fire house; take a CPR lesson and much more.

August 7

August 8

Mighty Fine Date Night - from 6:00p to 10:00p hosted by Committed.net - Mighty Fine - Arbor Walk, Sunset Valley, University Oaks. Join us at any Mighty Fine restaurant every Monday night in August and learn how to love again! Enjoy a couples date night, good food, special gifts, etc.

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Strength for the Family, Hope for the City

FREE HCG Weight Loss Class - Discover this amazing diet. The 1 1/2 hour class will be fun and interactive, taught by a Naturopathic Doctor - 6:30p at the Natural Wellness Round Rock, 110 N-IH35 Ste295. Please call to register 512-3108880. 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. Admission is by donation. Faith in Action Caregivers – Georgetown, celebrating 10 years of service, invites you to “AN ENCHANTED EVENING,” a fundraising Dance and Silent Auction, from 7:00p to 10:00p, in the Sun City Ballroom located at 2 Texas Drive, music by the David Kautz band. Tickets are available for $15 from the office (868-9544) for this evening of fun and magic benefitting FIAC-G services for our senior neighbors. Second Saturdays are for Families - 12:00p to 4:00p at Austin Museum of Art. Price: Families $10, Member Families $5 Phone: (512) 495-9224 Drop in and create! And don’t forget to visit our handson FamilyLab, open regular Museum hours! See www.amoa.org for activities and special guests. Summer Marketplace All Mall Hours - Shop "all things Austin" at the Highland Mall Summer Marketplace! Purchase a variety of handcrafted items by local artists from jewelry to woodwork to stationery. Enjoy music and family activities while supporting local artists.

August 14

Join the Austin Symphony Orchestra for free "Concerts in the Park" held at Hartman Concert Park in front of the Long Center City Terrace, Sunday evenings at 7:30p. For additional information, go to austinsymphony.org or call 512376-6064. Summer Marketplace All Mall Hours - Shop "all things Austin" at the Highland Mall Summer Marketplace! Purchase a variety of handcrafted items by local artists from jewelry to woodwork to stationery. Enjoy music and family activities while supporting local artists.

August 15

Mighty Fine Date Night - from 6:00pm to 10:00pm hosted by Committed.net - Mighty Fine - Arbor Walk, Sunset Valley, University Oaks, Austin. Join us at any Mighty Fine restaurant every Monday night in August and learn how to love again! Enjoy a couples date night, good food, special gifts, etc. Maximized Living Toxicity Workshop, 6:00p to 7:00p at Pure Chiropractic Wellness, 3107 S. IH35, #787, Round Rock. RSVP to (512) 246-9355.

August 16

WEBINAR - HOUSEHOLD PRODUCTS from 6:00p to 7:00p. Register on-line at purechiropracticwellness.com to listen to this important information. www.AustinFaithandFamily.com

FREE HCG Weight Loss Class – Discover this amazing diet plan. The 1 ½ hour class will be fun and interactive, taught by a Naturopathic Doctor - 6:30p at the Natural Wellness Cedar Park, 202 Walton Way Suite 198, Cedar Park. Please call to register 512-528-0130.

August 17

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. Admission is by donation.

August 18

The Pediatric Center of Round Rock offers free newborn and prenatal classes for expectant parents 6:00p to 7:00p at 7700 Cat Hollow #104. The classes include information on what to expect at delivery, breastfeeding, newborn screening immunizations and much more important information about caring for your infant. FREE. Please call (512) 733-5437 to register. JuniorBibleQuiz (JBQ) information meeting - 7:00p to 8:30p at The Church of Glad Tidings. Open to K-6, the children meet with other teams for a fun and exciting quizzing match where two teams of quizzers try to get the first shot at the answer. The quizzing is exciting and the fellowship is friendly.

PATIENT APPRECIATION DAY - BACK TO SCHOOL, 7:00a to10:00a & 3:15p to 5:15p. Patients, please donate school supplies and bring them to the office for our local School Supply Drive. Also, your guests will receive special new patient exams at Pure Chiropractic Wellness, 3107 S. IH-35, #787, Round Rock.

August 23

Concordia University’s Welcome Party - Open to the entire community – 4:00p to 8:00p - Food, music and vendors; free event for CTX students, faculty, staff and the local community at the Field House gym. Contact John Adams 512-313-4307 FMI.

August 24

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. Admission is by donation.

August 25

JuniorBibleQuiz (JBQ) information meeting - 7:00p to 8:30p at Dripping Springs United Methodist. Open to K-6, the children meet with other teams for a fun and exciting quizzing match where two teams of quizzers try to get the first shot at the answer. The quizzing is exciting and the fellowship is friendly.

Student Night at Highland Mall - 5:00p to 9:00p - Gear up for Back to School with a fashion Show, music, games and entertainment by the Austin Variety Show, School of Rock and Austin Cheer Factory. Middle school and High School students receive a free goody bag with a student ID or canned foods while supplies last and are entered to win raffle prizes!

August 27

DINNER WITH THE DOC AT SALTGRASS STEAKHOUSE IN ROUND ROCK 6:30p to 8:00p. Dinner is on us for any person who calls the office to RSVP from Austin Faith and Family Magazine. Dr. Rodriguez will share more about the 5 Essentials. Call 512-246-9355 to reserve your spot.

Safari Brunch and Help Support the Austin Zoo! 10:00a to 12:00p at Mansion at Judges' Hill Restaurant, Austin. Price: $50 per person Phone: (512) 288-1490.

August 20

Book signing – AFF’s own editor, Marcy Lytle, will be hosting a book signing at Lifeway Christian Bookstore from 2:00p to 4:00p. Come by and get a signed copy of her book Catching Fireflies. And while you’re there, pick up a copy of Austin Faith & Family too!

August 21

August 22

Mighty Fine Date Night - from 6:00p to 10:00p hosted by Committed.net - Mighty Fine - Arbor Walk, Sunset Valley, University Oaks, Austin. Join us at any Mighty Fine restaurant every Monday night in August and learn how to love again! Enjoy a couples date night, good food, special gifts, etc. www.AustinFaithandFamily.com

Bat Fest - 1:00p to Sunday, Aug 28 12:00a at Congress Avenue Bridge, Austin - Will feature Arts, Crafts, Music, Food, Bat Watching, Children's Activities, and Educational Displays. Rapunzel - 10:00a to 12:00p at Scottish Rite Children's Theatre, Austin.

August 28

August 29

August 31

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. Admission is by donation.

Strength for the Family, Hope for the City

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Faith&Family 21

There were 85 students in his graduating class at the high school Sam Acho attended in Dallas. He played for a football team that was classified even lower than 1A. When he found out he was coming to The University of Texas, such a huge school and a stark contrast from where he’d been going, many told him, “You’ll be lost!” However, Sam Acho was anything but lost in the four years he played as Defensive End for the Longhorns at the University of Texas here in Austin. His faith enabled him, the work he put forth paid off, and the friends he kept around him sustained him.

and his homework in school - along with temptations that come from just being in college - Sam says he knows he is “called to be a leader in the locker room and in the city.” And he further added that he sees this as an “opportunity,” not an “obstacle.” To keep his faith, Sam says it’s all about community and having guys around you who can “pray with you” and to whom you can be “accountable” to on a day-to-day basis. He states, “You become like those you hang out with,” so it’s important to hang around other believers.

Sam Acho is the third child of four, with two sisters older, and one younger brother – Emmanuel Acho – also a football player at the University of Texas. Sam attended St. Mark’s, a college prep school that headed students off to the Ivy League schools. However, after coaches recruited him, Sam started at the University of Texas where he was in the Honors Business School. When we met with Sam, he was just days from walking the stage to receive his college diploma. He was also in town raising awareness and making preparations for a huge fundraiser for his parents’ ministry, Living Hope Ministries, an organization that takes medical personnel to Nigeria to give free medical care.

Sam shared a cool story with us about a time when he was backing up Brian Orakpo, during a practice, and really wanted to “step up” and look good. However, the more he tried, the more he kept messing up. Then he read Romans 4:20 “Yet he did not waver through unbelief regarding the promise of God, but was strengthened in his faith and gave glory to God” and wrote it down on a note card and placed it on a wall in his room. He states he was “fully convinced” of God’s promises to him, and was determined not to “waver.” Over the next month, his performance on the field just kept improving, as the Word became a reality in his play!

As we visited with Sam across a dining room table, his enthusiasm and spirit were actually contagious. It was obvious from the smile on his face that he loved talking about the reason behind all of his success – Christ. Sam also credited his dad as being a “hero” in his life that he admires, as his dad is a pastor and psychologist, and a great business man. Playing for a college football team such as the Longhorns has its advantages, for sure. But Sam states that “having that pedestal from which to be a light for my city and state” is the highest advantage of all. Even with pressure to balance football practice

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Sam is currently reading Psalm 73:28 that states (paraphrased), “The presence of the Lord is my good.” This reminds him that whether he’s injured or healthy, playing in a game or sitting the bench, or even playing sports at all, being with God is all that matters. And furthermore, being on a team is just a great platform from which to talk about your passion – your love for Christ – because you have an audience who listens to what you have to say and who sees what you do. Sam shared that when he arrived at UT as a freshman, he thought maybe he would be redshirted his first year. However, he was called into a game against TCU and his very first play was coming in on 2nd down, where he sacked the quarterback. Acho was excited and pumped, ready to show the coach what he could do as the game progressed to 3rd down. However, he heard a voice from the sidelines calling him, “Acho, you’re out!” What? He couldn’t stay and show his stuff? The coach did congratulate his play, but then put back in the “stars of the game” while Acho waited his turn to play again. He says it was humbling, but a great memory and a valuable learning experience. Sam Acho is just like anyone else, and he loves accolades received from a game well played. However, he says the best compliments come from friends who say things like, “Hey, that’s cool – you remembered my name.” (He remembered mine too, after our interview.) Another friend on Facebook posted a message that he came to know Christ because of Sam’s influence on him. Sam loves that being a believer makes him “different,” a follower on a “narrow path,” maybe an “outcast,” all of which is awesome to not be just “part of a crowd.” AFF wanted to know more about Living Hope Ministries, the ministry in which Sam Acho’s entire family is involved. The founders are Sam’s parents, Mr. and Mrs. Sonny Acho. They were “heartbroken” after traveling to their home country of Nigeria, noticing that many were dying “due to a lack of simple over the counter medications.” As they prayed, several medical people in their local church began going with them on trips to Nigeria, and then medical supplies were also donated. One of the goals of LHM is to build a local medical hospital to improve the health of the patients in need. LHM is a 501 (c) (3) nonprofit organization out of Dallas, Texas, and has been providing medical care and medicine to Africa since

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Sam Acho with a few Nigerian children on a medical mission trip. Photo credit: Danny Smith & McCombs Today

2008, sharing Christ with those they serve. For more information on Living Hope Ministries, visit http://www. livinghopeministries.us/. Sam and his family make trips to Nigeria often, and Sam has even taken teammates with him to serve at the present Isuikwato General Hospital, which is just really a compound where people come for medical assistance. While there, they all manage the crowds, help transport patients, bring bags of medicine, etc. The need for a real hospital with staff and medical equipment is great. Sam actually won a great award recently and we were in the crowd at the Orange/White game when he received it. It is the Campbell Trophy Award, “awarded by the National Football Foundation that is given to the American college football player with the best combination of academics, community service, and on-field performance. It is considered by many to be the ‘Academic Heisman.’”[1] However, when we asked Sam about his most memorable college moment, winning this award wasn’t it. It was hanging out with his friends, playing charades. Sure, running through the tunnel at the beginning of a game was a great thrill, but getting to know his teammates and friends a little bit better topped it all. What does the future hold for Sam Acho? He has been drafted by the Arizona Cardinals to play linebacker this next season. He’s learning the drills, working out in the weight room, and hoping to get to know the guys he will be playing with soon. We asked, “So what’s your greatest accomplishment?” His answer was simple, “I hope it’s still to come.” We’ll be watching and waiting… Marcy Lytle

Acho credits the strength of his faith in part to a community of guys who keep him "accountable" on a day-to-day basis. www.AustinFaithandFamily.com

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Plan a Little, Save a Lot! T

here is a very charming older couple who visits my business, The Studio Kitchen, to assemble their own food for cooking at home. They’ve been coming for years – usually on a Saturday morning. He owns a huge construction company and she works for a teacher’s association. In talking to them, my husband (who likes to fly) found out that the man’s company has a corporate Jet and a Beachcraft King Air – “for shorter field landings and take off…” “Each one of these planes cost several millions of dollars,” my husband explained to me.

When she arrived, a few minutes later, my husband chatted with her about how they enjoy our food. “We love this place,” she said. “We saved over $5,000 in restaurant meals during the first year we came here. I know. I have a spreadsheet on it…” she went on to explain. She was clearly very passionate about it. “I printed it off and

If you live several hours from the nearest grocery store, chances are you may take a bit of time to plan your meals and shopping. But living in an urban environment, it is easy for the planning to drop out. There are so many choices close at hand. Many people don’t even think about dinner until they arrive home. By then it is just so easy to say “I don’t feel like cooking. Let’s go out…” And so it goes.

This couple is very well off, or to put it more bluntly, “They’re rich!” Yes, they can probably afford to have a personal chef prepare all of their meals – yet they come to me? My husband explained that one day the husband arrived a few minutes before his wife did. My husband swiped the man’s credit card and printed the slip for him to sign. As he tried to print the second slip, the machine jammed. “Can you make me a photocopy of this charge slip?” the man wanted to know. “You know how my wife is. She tracks everything! She’s going to need a copy.” So that is what we did.

Wow!? “Can that be right?” I wondered. So I did the math: $5,000 divided by 12 months = $416 per month. Let’s assume they spend $35 per meal including a tip, which is 11.9 meals per month. That works out to three restaurant meals per week. I know of many people who eat out more often than that! So, yes, her numbers add up.

showed my husband,” she said. “I keep on telling other people about this and many just don’t seem to get it. People just charge things to their credit cards and they have no idea where the money is going. I like to go to Italy with my friends and what I save here more than pays for my trips!”

So set yourself a goal. What can you do with an extra, say $3,000 in your pocket a year from now? Follow these simple steps: 1. Make a firm commitment to shop for groceries once a week only. 2. Go to www.thesudiokitchen.com and order 12-14 entrees and the suggested sides. (This will qualify you for free delivery or a bulk discount if you come pick it up.) You will receive an e-mail listing what you ordered. 3. Go to www.mealplanner.net and print off the Ultimate Grocery Shopping List. 4. Grab a calendar and plan out your dinners from The Studio Kitchen. 5. Use the grocery shopping list to plan your breakfast, lunch and snack purchases. 6. Stick to your list when you do your shopping. 7. Plan on eating out once a week. Make it a special occasion. 8. Pull out your credit card statements for the last 3-6 months and create a spreadsheet of your restaurant expenses. Keep track of it going forward. Repeat these steps and let me know how it goes! You can email me at laura.bezden@ thestudiokitchen.com. Plan a little. Save a lot. You can do it! Laura Bazden The Studio Kitchen

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Life

Ladies Top 10 Erin's Cooking Life Changers Spend Life Well

25 26 27 28

School BYSerenity MARCY LYTLE S Ladies Top 10:

chool starts later this month, and whether you’re a mom, an aunt, or just a friend, I’m sure you know children who are starting back to classes. There are ways to make the school year less stressful, less scary, and more tolerable…and even maybe enjoyable! Seriously, having children of school age brings a whole set of issues for which we need wisdom on how to approach them, how to manage them, and how to keep our children safe, under our wings, and yet teach them to fly. Here are my ten tips:

DON’T fill up every spare minute with extracurricular activities. School takes up most of the day. Your children will be fine if they just enjoy their life at home, with maybe one or two outside interests. Give them time to play, think, read and create, apart from team sports, clubs, and the next “new” thing. DO have family night, at least once a week…or more. Make sure there is a scheduled time (it won’t “just happen” if it’s not on the calendar) for the family to spend an hour or two talking, perhaps having a devotional time, complimenting each other, etc. Make this appointment with your kids a priority.

DO eat dinner together. This is nothing new. We’ve read it, we’ve heard it – but do we do it? Dinner doesn’t have to be fancy. What does matter is that you and your kids dine together at a table, and not in front of the television, in the car, or at different times throughout the evening. There’s something special about the dinner table. Find it.

DON’T assume that school knows best. If your child is assigned a book list from which to choose a book to read, go with them to the library and read the synopsis of each one. Make sure to teach them how to guard their minds from bad input. Most teachers will work with parents if there is objectionable reading material, if you just ask.

DO make your house the hub after school or on weekends. Make your home inviting to your kids’ friends. If they feel welcome, they know your rules, and you show them attention and love, your kids and their friends will want your place to be where they “hang out.” This requires that you be there, that you care, and that you are aware of what they’re doing, and who they’re doing it with.

DO listen to your kids and what they have to say. If they seem moody, depressed, upset, or angry, let them talk. It may seem trivial and “childish” to you, but if you listen without judgment, and pray with them, often these things work themselves out. Just listening can give insight into their world, what matters to them, and how their heart works.

DO make your kids accountable. Teach them how to budget their time. If they are assigned a 400-page book to read in four weeks, that means they need to read 100 pages each week. It’s simple math. Make them show you their homework “to do” list and mark off each assignment with them, as it’s completed. This teaches them skills for a lifetime of discipline and reward.

DON’T try to be a “supermom” or “superwoman.” All moms, whether you’re single, you work outside the home or inside the home, you have one kid or four kids, need help. It might be a simple phone call to a friend; it might be an hour to yourself, or a ride for your kids because you can’t be in five places at once. Ask for help.

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DON’T let teenagers skip out on their youth group activities at church. Joining a club that keeps teens away from their friends at church, friends who encourage and support them, only makes them feel awkward when they return. And sometimes, they never return. It may sound old-fashioned – but keep church a priority.

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DON’T grow weary in welldoing. Your kids are only on loan to you for a very short time and the time you spend on your knees, in the car, on the playing field, behind the kitchen sink, or sitting up late at night trying to figure out that last math problem, will be over before you know it. Hug your kids. Let them know they are loved… always and forever. AUSTIN

Faith&Family

Life

Erin's Cooking

The Simple Life I’ve spent a good portion of my life savings this summer on sunblock and Aloe Vera lotion, as a lot of my time was spent at the pool or lake. It’s these numerous low-key outings that add up to a memorable summer.

Straw-spberry Bread Spread 1 lb. fresh Strawberries 1 pint of fresh Raspberries Juice of 1 Lemon 1 Tbsp. Raspberry Balsamic Vinegar Directions: In a large saucepan, mash together strawberries, raspberries, lemon juice and vinegar. Cook over high heat until softened, 2 to 4 minutes.

Last summer, however, was kind of dull for me. Neither of my jobs was too exciting and I knew they would not last long. I didn’t have many friends because I didn’t put much effort in finding any. But to make sure it appeared as though I was making an effort, I took online classes towards a degree I wasn’t even sure I wanted to pursue anymore. I made myself believe that I would drone on through nothing more than a mediocre life. I did what I could to get by, nothing more. My idea of the simple life was skewed. I was so wrapped up in taking it easy that I became so bored with myself. The simple life is simply living while doing the things you enjoy. Being employed full time makes it easy to live the simple life according to my own definition. Down time is coveted and even in that time, I believe in being productive. Some call it being a workaholic, but that implies that someone gets left behind. Surround yourself with people to come alongside you. Take the time to see them and their potential. Hebrews 3:13 says “But encourage one another daily, as long as it is called Today…” Like this recipe, life doesn’t have to be complicated. It only takes a couple ingredients to create something that can be used in many different ways. Find your recipe for a simple life and then simply live to be an encouragement to a couple of fruits…I mean friends.

Serve over grilled or toasted bread and in desserts, or use to layer yogurt parfaits.

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Erin Osborn Cooking Enthusiast

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Life Changers

UNDER THE HOOD Angel R

ecently I had an experience that I am sure many would agree to be most unpleasant. My car broke down on Mopac Highway, during traffic. I managed to get my car pulled over to a side street, and I had no idea what to do. I sat in my car and cried, mostly out of frustration and some out of fear. Being a single mother, I do not have a husband to go to for important pieces of advice such as what do I do about my car. However, it was that moment when I realized I did have someone to turn to, so I prayed. God brought to my mind to call my mechanic.

Since I moved to Austin, I have been blessed to meet some of the most amazing people, and my mechanic is one of them. He told me to just wait and said, “I am sending you some help.” He then took care of everything! Once my car was in his shop, he and his wife decided they wanted to do even more. They fixed my car and wouldn’t take a penny from me.

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Life

I left the shop again in tears, but this time they were tears of thankfulness and praise. I instantly thought of a verse, Sing praises to God and to his name! Sing loud praises to him who rides the clouds. His name is the Lord rejoices in his presence! Father to the fatherless, defender of widows this is God, whose dwelling is holy. -Psalm 68:4-5 I realized that single mothers do, in fact, have someone to take care of them. God sends angels, just like my mechanic, to take of those who do not have a helper. I cannot even begin to tell you how this “Under the Hood” angel’s generosity and love made me feel so secure and so safe, as a single mom on the side of the road in need of help.

Rene Dorsey

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Life

Spend Life Well

Back to School

& Your Family's Finances

You don't need to break the bank...

s Dad, one thing I have noticed is that my kids grow about 10 times faster during the summer as compared to during the school year. Anything that fits at the end of May is mysteriously too small come August. Time for back to school shopping for clothes and school supplies. Back to School time can be a stress on the family spending plan but it does not have to be that way. Follow some of these tips and you most likely can feel good about having stayed on track.

Have a plan In Proverbs, we are reminded that planning is a wise action to undertake and this is no different for Back to School. As you consider what your children need for school, create a quick list of some basic staple items (e.g. jeans, tennis shoes) that might be needed. Don’t forget to pull out last fall’s clothes in early August to see if anything still fits or can be handed-down to another child. What a blessing that can be! Take an honest look at what you’ve already set aside for school clothes and supplies. The list may be general in nature, but you will get an idea of needs. Determine the dollar amount for each child as you begin to establish your spending plan. If you haven’t saved, plan to do that throughout the next year. Remember, just like Christmas, back to school happens each year.

Don’t give in to pressure Kiddie pressure that is. You were good at convincing your parents that you “needed” or “had to have” a particular item of clothing or accessory and your children are good at persuasion as well.

I remember one Back to School shopping spree with my mom. I “had to have” a pair of yellow Converse HiTops. Did I need them for basketball practice? No… .I needed them to go with a pair Fuchsia pants and matching shirt that looked like it was in an accident at the Paisley factory. My mom saw the logic I spewed from my adolescent mouth and helped me purchase the shoes (my clothing budget was blown on the pants). Or perhaps, she got a good chuckle at seeing how ridiculous I looked. Thank the Lord I did not really care for parachute pants. My point here is that whether your child is 5 or 17, he knows how to push your emotional buttons when it comes to buying things. But, you are the adult and parent. As hard as it is to ignore the grumbling and whining, you have to keep your Back to School expenses in check. That is why having a plan helps. You stick to the plan and you can fend off the subversive attacks from those little family members who are not paying your bills.

Involve your kids One way to help manage the tactics of your children is to involve them in the process. Depending on their age, you will vary the level of independence you give them in this. If they are a responsible teenager, you might put some of the funds into a checking account for them use to purchase the things they need. Be sure to set clear expectations and help them identify what all the money will need to buy. If they are younger, you might consider simply pointing out the choice to spend more on just one “must have” shirt or being able to buy two shirts that are actually equally as nice.

learn the lesson of consequences. As long as you’ve set clear expectations up front, you can feel good about sticking with your spending plan and setting the example for your child.

Take advantage of sales tax holidays If you live in Texas, you need to remember August 19-21, 2011 as sales-tax holidays. For a full list of school supplies and clothing eligible for exemption, check out: www.window.state.tx.us/taxinfo/ taxpubs/tx98_490/tx98_490.html. Most items on the list that are priced under $100 are exempt from sales tax, saving you about $8 for every $100 you spend. But be sure you check the Comptroller’s website before you head out shopping.

Giving back will kick off the school year on a great note We all have our long list of “needs” for back-to-school time, yet there are plenty of children whose needs are far greater than we can imagine. They may not be focused on back-to-school, but rather daily survival, so school supplies may be out of reach. We are told throughout the Bible to care for those in need. Why not also teach our children a valuable spiritual lesson by challenging them (and us) to also give back by buying some things for others if we have the means? Check with your local church to see if they are having a backpack or school supply drive. Have a great start to the new school year!

Now keep in mind that your child might choose to spend the higher amount on the “must have” tennis shoes rather than purchase several pairs of shoes. If the item itself meets your approval and you’ve pointed out the consequence of not having the money for other purchases, you might actually find that either (a) they wear the shoes every day and are thrilled to pieces filled with confidence or (b) they

Mark Trice

Meet AFF's SALES REP! Miranda Bradley is the author of Blessed Are the Jesus Chicks (Smyth & Helwys), a practical guide for the working Christian mom. She also owns BCreative, a communications consulting

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firm focused on marketing for nonprofits and small businesses. She lives in Georgetown with her husband and two (stinky but sweet) boys.

If you'd like to find out more about advertising your business in AFF, send Miranda an email and she'll be glad to help you!

miranda@austinfaithandfamily.com

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The Great Trail Ride:

Meeting God in the Wide Open Spaces

by Jack Terry

I stumbled upon a treasure in a tiny store off the square in Brenham, Texas. The Great Trail Ride drew my attention and I couldn’t keep from handling the beautiful pictures and reading the highlighted words from its pages. Jack Terry is a magnificent artist who captures the essence of God’s creation like few artists today. Among incredible depictions of America’s cowboys and days on the trail, the author quotes his honored Grandfather and explains the truths of the Christian life from their relationship. Using scripture and great tales of adventures in Texas and throughout the west, Jack Terry sends the reader along on the trail. Terry says, “American cowboys may be the world’s foremost experts on contentment. It is an unwritten code they live by.” Then he continues to share his experiences while riding with real cattlemen across the country. Encouragement and integrity flow from every page and I, for one, want to join Jack Terry on that trail. Ginny Hurley

Veggie Tales:

Princess and the Pop Star Does the grass always seem greener on the other side of the fence? The latest Veggie Tales DVD, Princess and the Pop Star, tells the story of two girls from two very different walks of life, but with a very similar problem. They don’t really appreciate the blessings God has given them, nor really embrace the talents He has blessed them with. In the Veggie Tales retelling of the classic Prince and the Pauper story, farm girl Princess Poppyseed and rock star Vanna Bananan (both played by Laura Carrot) end up switching lives. It all seems great at first: Princess gets to perform concerts and be pampered right and left, while Vanna finally has a chance to do real-life things and be around people who genuinely care about her. Both learn in the end that God put them right where they belong and they are uniquely situated to serve Him. Princess and the Pop Star will be in stores on August 16. Mike Giles

A Voice in the Wind by Francine Rivers

What better way to spend a long, hot summer than with a good fiction series full of unforgettable characters and riveting drama? I had read enough of Francine Rivers’ work to know that I wouldn’t be disappointed; and the first book in the series, “Marks of a Lion,” really delivers. A Voice in the Wind begins with adolescent Hadassah witnessing the fall of Jerusalem and the death of her family. Taken captive and shipped to Rome, she finds herself on a voyage of danger and selfdiscovery. Rivers vividly describes Rome with its melting pot of culture and toleration of any kind of behavior in such an excellent way you can’t help but get her point that our present day world is not much different. Gracefully weaving Scripture through Hadassah’s words, the reader can see how God is working in every character’s life proving again that storytelling with strong spiritual purpose can enrich our faith walk. A beautifully written story of how God will work through the simplest of His followers in the worst of situations for the salvation of many. On to Book Two! Deborah Begley LifeWay Christian Store

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t’s that time again where we get fired up to start off the new school year on the right foot and maintain those grades we have always dreamed of. Unlike New Year’s resolutions that traditionally last about 24 to 48 hours, School Year resolutions typically have more endurance, lasting all the way through that first round of exams. So what does it take to start strong and finish strong each semester? How much does one’s personal life impact his academic life? And what does it take to go from an average student to someone companies are anxious to recruit? I believe there are two key areas every student must be willing to resolve to use, in order to accomplish these goals: your relationship with Christ, and your character. Your spiritual life absolutely influences your academic performance. The captain of a ship has a difficult time maneuvering in the fog, and that is exactly what it is like to be enrolled in school but have no bearing on how these courses are going to impact your eternal destiny. Is your performance in Algebra really going to matter in the long run? Seems like the answer would be no, but what if I were to tell you that’s wrong? I think your performance in even the most trivial of electives has great bearing on not just your eternity but the eternity of those around you too; and here’s why. God gives his children small tasks in an effort to develop their faith, trust, and obedience. He gave Joseph visions of greatness, then started him off as a slave and graduated him to prisoner, before eventually promoting him years later to a place of great honor and influence. He gave David the farm while his brothers were off to war, and he gave Esther the role of a servant before she became queen. The point is that our performance in what may seem like the trivial or mundane parts of life are an indication of our future performance in tasks of greater importance. God recognizes this, even if we don’t.

The more we pursue Christ, the more the point of our life comes into focus. Jesus begins to fill us with passions and purposes we never had. Some call this “holy ambition,” which is a fancy way of saying God just lit a fire under your butt and you are finally ready to drop a bomb on complacency in your life. The challenge is

SCHOOL

20 Words:

New Year Resolutions

to resolve to see things like homework, class participation, note taking, and attendance as the small tasks God is giving you to test whether or not you are ready for something more significant in life. You fail here; you will fail in the other areas too. There are no shortcuts.

In regards to the second key, I do believe that developing your relationship with God also develops your character. But grades are often a more direct reflection of many aspects of one’s character, more times than not. It’s not the grade itself as much as it is what it takes to achieve the grade that indicates character. When coursework gets difficult, will you fold under pressure? When life happens and your personal life is a mess, will you still have the discipline to focus on your studies? Will you have the humility to ask for tutoring? Will you develop the skills needed to balance work, personal, and school loads? Can you say no to the flesh in order to maintain a more proper focus, day in and day out?

You see, the truth is that your grades are reflecting more than just your knowledge in a particular subject. Grades indicate the character that you developed along the way in order to overcome adversity and still come out on top. These are the kinds of folks companies are eager to hire, those that have been through battle and have come out victors. It’s not just victory in academics either. The same self discipline it took to stay home and study on Friday and Saturday night is the same self discipline it will take to

not chase after the American dream and instead pour your life into mending a broken world. You won’t FEEL like sharing the gospel most of the time, just like you don’t FEEL like studying, but that is what you are here on earth for. You may not desire to reach out to others who are different from you in order to show them Christ’s love, just like you didn’t desire to reach out for help on that project or in that class. But you did it, because you knew it was what needed to be done. I think you get the point. The spiritual influences the academic and vice versa.

God is very Mr. Miyagi-like in his ways. Things that on the surface appear to have no eternal value actually do. So I exhort you this new school year to write down your resolutions and show them to others who will hold you accountable. Remember, there really is something much greater at stake here than your academic career, so keep your eyes fixed on that which has eternal value and let this school year be the training ground that God desires it to be.

Joe Elliot Youth & Young Adult Minister Northwest Fellowship

20 Words has a dual meaning--it speaks to an audience in their 20s while highlighting 20 words that send a message.

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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raising three children, one of whom is currently serving in Iraq. Call her and let her help you take your business to the next level.

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Health

Living to the Max Diet & Nutrition Healthy Indeed

35 36 37

Living to the Max:

The 5 Essentials of a Maximized Life and allergies. The true principles of nutrition that have sustained human life for thousands of years are not hard to follow once you understand the third Essential, Maximized Quality Nutrients. Do you like honey? Don’t eat too much of it, or it will make you sick! (Proverbs 25:16 NLT)

ow do you know if you’re healthy or not? The standard answer is, “Symptoms.” You are considered to be sick when you experience symptoms, and if you don’t you must be healthy. The American health care system mostly serves a symptom-based, reactive paradigm boiling down to “wait until something is wrong, and then treat it with a pill, potion, shot, or surgery to remove the diseased parts. Today, the two leading diseases in the U.S. are heart disease and cancer. Both are happening in the body long before you “feel” any symptoms. Alarmingly, in Death by Medicine, written by five medical doctors, the medical system is now the leading cause of death from unnecessary surgery, medication and hospital errors, infections and adverse reactions. Could it be that if the disease doesn’t kill you, the treatment might? We must begin to understand that God did not create us to be diseased and overly dependent on medications. We need to transform our paradigm. Why are we placing more faith in man healing us from the “outside in” than God healing us from the “inside out?” God tells us in 1 John 4:4, “You, dear children, are from God and have overcome them, because the One who is in you is greater than the one who is in the world.” The pure wellness paradigm consists of The 5 Essentials that bring optimal well-being so that you can live to your God-given potential. The first Essential, Maximized Mind, is paramount in

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being able to apply the other four. Many times we create mental suicide by our own negative thinking. If someone told you, “You can’t, so why try?” or said, “It’s genetic and you can’t do anything about it,” 20,000 times for five years, what would you believe? Usually, the person telling you these things is YOU. The words you say are the seeds you sow and “life and death are in the power of the tongue.” It is a Biblical principle that you reap what you sow! With a renewed mindset, you can successfully harvest a maximized lifestyle. Health, defined by The World Health Organization, is “the state of an organism when it functions optimally without evidence of disease or abnormality.” Key is FUNCTION. What to a Maximized Nerve Supply actually controls all function in the body? It is the brain communicating through the nerves. Misalignments in the spine block the life flow to all cells and organs of the body. A misaligned spine is common because of the physical, emotional, and chemical stresses we experience in our bodies every day. In fact, the correct curve in the neck should be about 45 degrees. This critical Essential should not be ignored to live at your highest health potential. Our standard American diet, S.A.D., consists of man-made foods that are high in sugars, chemically altered, and filled with bad fats and preservatives. Foods by God are alive and loaded with nutrients: everything our “body by God” needs. As a result, we are reaping the consequences of obesity, diabetes, high cholesterol, high blood pressure, Strength for the Family, Hope for the City

To have Maximized Oxygen and Lean Muscle, you can exercise in a more efficient way! It’s called MAXT3. Workouts are done in only 12 minutes a day, three times per week. Now everyone is without excuse. The science behind this type of workout impacts the production of the hormones that build muscle, burn fat even after the workout, and create heart health. Our modern, sedentary lifestyle has turned people into fat-building, muscle-burning machines instead of fat-burning, muscle-building bodies. Truly God has created our bodies to heal and to detoxify themselves. However, between the 25 million pills that we consume per hour and the 80,000 chemicals used in medications, vaccines, foods, and beauty and cleaning products, there is no question that we are poisoned! Could toxicity be the culprit behind many of today’s incurable diseases? Toxins affect our bodies at the cellular level, by being stored in the cells and decreasing the body’s ability to produce the strongest antioxidant, glutathione. Through the fifth Essential, Minimized Toxins, your body has a fighting chance. The 5 Essentials all working together are vital for a life of healthy longevity. Put your health back into your own hands by learning and putting the 5 Essentials into practice . “A prudent person foresees the danger ahead and takes precautions. The simple go blindly on and suffer the consequences." Proverbs 27:12 NLT Dr. Joe Henry Rodriguez Pure Chiropractic Wellness purechiropracticwellness.com

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Health

Diet & Nutrition

Natural Remedies

for Constipation

everal physiological functions are substantive for survival, and they are proper disintegration and assimilation of food, plus adequate elimination of waste materials. In our modern world, however, these processes are anything but proper. In the many patients I interviewed, there were very few who did not complain of gastrointestinal complaints, such as acid reflux, indigestion, diarrhea, and constipation. The emphasis here is on constipation, because the inability to eliminate wastes from your body leaves the body in a toxic state, as many of the bound toxins ready to be excreted are reabsorbed instead.

bowel movement. Choline can be found in eggs, animal livers, soy lecithin, or in supplement form, by itself, or as part of Lecithin. Beets are another good choice as they contain large amount of Betaine, and consumption of one in the evening can help with elimination the next morning. In terms of plants or herbs that aid bowel movement, fenugreek seeds are good. Fenugreek has high fiber content that can increase bulk in the stool, and it creates mucilage which helps lubricate the bowel. Also beneficial are collisonia roots, which increase circulation in the bowel, and of course, psyllium husk (main ingredient of Metamucil), which supply plenty of fiber. Finally, donâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;t forget to drink a lot of water, including one big cold glass in the morning.

There are many possible causes of constipation. The most commonly known by the public is lack of fiber intake. However, there are many patients who do not improve with taking more fiber from fruits and vegetables or psyllium husk. I am presenting an often overlooked cause of constipation, and the natural remedies that help ameliorate constipation.

movement, and foods that encourage gallbladder contractility can improve bowel movement and decrease constipation.

One often overlooked or unknown factor to proper elimination is the gallbladder reflex. Physiologically, when the gall bladder contracts to release bile for the digestion of fats, it triggers bowel movement as a reflex action. This is an intelligent process because elimination of wastes should follow digestion and absorption of food. Therefore, lack of proper gallbladder movement can lead to decreased bowel

This is why drinking coffee or Early Grey tea in the morning often helps with elimination, because caffeine can stimulate gallbladder contraction. Another helpful aid is Choline, which is a nutritional substance essential for the transport of cholesterol and fats from the liver, and is implicated for gallbladder and liver health. Its metabolite, Betaine, is known to encourage bile flow, and thus facilitates

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These natural measures should help ensure regular bowel movements to improve your health. Dr. Trent Peng Chiropractor & Nutritionist

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Healthy Indeed

Back to School Already?

Health

S i m p l e W e l l n e ss P r e pa r at i o n T i p s

ust the thought of going back to school can give you a headache as parents. I know, because I am one. Your child’s health should rightfully be a top priority, hence the timing of this article - to help you and your kids get ahead of the game.

March, 2010 showed that up to 27% of children’s daily calories come from snacks. They concluded that our children are snacking not for satiety’s sake but because the snacks are abundantly available everywhere. The same study showed children are consuming less fruit and more salty snacks, candies, juice and soft drinks – essentially junk food – with little to no nutrient value. Is it any wonder that childhood obesity is at an epidemical and alarming level?

Get Back To Routine – One of the fun parts of the summer is to enjoy the relaxed lifestyle and spontaneity, with watermelon, barbeque, and ice-cream. But once school starts, tight structure and time constraints come into play. This imposes stress on every member of the family. A transition period with a gradual increase in structure and routine a couple of weeks before the actual class start date can help everyone to ease into the school routine. Rest Well –A lack of sleep can affect brain activity, impair motor skills, decrease performance and even alter emotions. Insufficient rest disrupts the hormones that regulate glucose metabolism and appetite. Without sleep, healing is slowed, immunity is impaired, energy is drained, and mental fatigue and depression begin to set in. A 2006 study of 1,600 adolescents found that one in four high school students falls asleep in class at least once a week. Children ages 5 to 12 should sleep for 10 to 11 hours a night, adolescents 9 to 10 hours, and a solid 7 to 8 hours for adults. No supplement, stimulant, or diet will make up for lack of sleep. It would be wise to have schoolbound children establish their school-day sleep routine at least one week before classes start. If you are tired but having trouble sleeping consider Herbal Sleep, 5-HTP, or Traditional Chinese Medicine (TCM) formula Nervous Fatigue. Eat a Nutritious Breakfast – While carbohydrates are a part of the nutrients we need, donuts, white bread, many boxed cereals, juices, and even coffee, will not do the job. Protein needs to be a major key component of your breakfast, because it breaks down to amino acids which your brain uses as neurotransmitters. Additionally, proteins are a great source of energy that lasts

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Avoid soda drinks and salty, high-calorie prepackaged snack foods. Replace milk or juice with servings of fresh fruit or vegetables, and grains and nuts instead. Finally, as parents, model good snacking behavior for your children by helping yourself to healthy food and snacks daily!

much longer than simple carbohydrates. Protein is best taken at breakfast, because your stomach’s hydrochloric acid is highest to help digestion. Some may ask, “Are you talking about the oily sausages, processed hams, and bacon?” If you mean from a processed package of feedlot cow/ pork raised on commercial feed, the answer is NO – simply because of their final “denatured” state and the harmful additives in them. However, if it is organic, or preferably “grass fed” animals, they are not only pure and nutritious, they are delicious. When protein from animal sources is not a desirable option, there are plenty of excellent botanical alternatives that are great for breakfast. Spirulina, chlorella, or blue-green algae supplements found individually or together in the Super Algae product are excellent for breakfast. Protein powders from the whey, soy, rice, or other sources all may work as well.

“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.

Have Healthy Snacks –Young children have small stomachs. As a result, they cannot get all the nutrients they need through regular meals alone. Snacks therefore do play a role in healthy eating. A study published in Health Affairs on

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T E E N

C O U R T :

A Jury of Their Peers

“A

ll rise! The Williamson County YMCA Teen Court is now in session. The Honorable Judge Owen Stroud presiding,” the bailiff announces, to bring the courtroom into order. The judge sits at the bench and says, “You may be seated. Thank you for being here today. The defendant in each case has been found guilty of an offense, and today’s Teen Court will determine their sentence…” Although this sounds like the opening of a normal court proceeding, it is the beginning of a remarkable judicial program, the Williamson County YMCA Teen Court, which was founded by Judge Edna Staudt and works in partnership with the Greater Williamson County YMCA, Twin Lakes Branch. The program’s goals are to assist teenage offenders to assume responsibility for their behavior and learn from their decisions without having a juvenile court record; the program seeks to provide defendants with a positive experience in the judicial system, to promote their self-worth, motivate their self-improvement, and involve the community in the juvenile court process by providing them with a jury of their peers.

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Twice a month, teenagers between the ages of 13 and 18 come to the courtroom to participate in Teen Court, but not all participants are defendants. The majority are student volunteers from Austin, Cedar Park, Leander, and Liberty Hill, who are instructed in the positions of the courtroom so they can participate in the trials. Every participant has the opportunity to be trained as a juror, court clerk, bailiff, prosecutor, defense attorney, or judge. They are taught by Judge Staudt and attorneys from the Fowler Law Firm and Cofty Law, as well as by visiting police officers. The sponsors and coordinators of Teen Court are always thrilled to see new faces in the courtroom. They enjoy working with new participants and truly believe that Teen Court impacts their lives. “Teen Court provides students with tremendous insight into the Criminal Justice System and enhances their communication and critical thinking skills, enabling them to perform more effectively in their colleges and careers,” said Judge Staudt. However, the accomplished senior judges with their years of accumulated experience and

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expertise are equally important to the program. Teen Court had six senior judges graduate this past year. On Monday, July 18th, Judge Staudt, attorneys representing the Fowler Law Firm and Cofty Law, and sponsors from the Twin Lakes YMCA gathered in Judge Staudt’s courtroom to honor these graduates for their service and dedication. The senior judges were presented with a personalized gavel, pin, and certificate for their outstanding accomplishments. “We are delighted to be honoring these six students who have devoted their time and energy so successfully to Teen Court,” said Judge Staudt. The schedule for 2011-2012 and additional information can be found at www.wilco.org or www.ymcagwc.org. Camille Peeples

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