Austin Faith and Family December 2011

AUSTIN

Faith&Family

FREE

December

Did you "Earn� that Cold?

2011

Head to Heart Restoration Ministry America is unraveling at the seams

STRENGTH FOR THE FAMILY, HOPE FOR THEFaith&Family CITY 1

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AUSTIN

A Multi-generational Foster/Adoptive Camp and Retirement Community

Children Need Adoptive & Foster Homes!

We receive calls day and night for children needing a family. There are many children waiting to be adopted and siblings will be separated if we don’t find a family soon. Reimbursement for care is provided.

Adoption is FREE and children receive FREE insurance and FREE college tuition.

At FamilyLink we have placed over 600 children in loving foster families, but we are having to turn away up to 25 children a day!

We have a vision of a place called Legacy Ranch. Here, children who need a family and are hurting will not be turned away and Seniors will be cherished for their wisdom, love and care they seek to give; a beautiful place of healing and hope where children and seniors can minister to and draw strength from each other.

“Life Matters! with Mariah�

2

Tune in and hear stories that will inspire and encourage you to live out your destiny and purpose!

Get advice on everything from relationships, work, parenting and more!

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Publisher EDCO Media Amanda@AustinFaithandFamily.com 512.584.6888

contents

December 2011

Editor Marcy Lytle Marcy@AustinFaithandFamily.com Art Director Kyle Akers Kyle@AustinFaithandFamily.com

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Advertising Sales Ricca Keepers | 512.550.6508 Ricca@AustinFaithandFamily.com Miranda Bradley | 512.924.3911 Miranda@AustinFaithandFamily.com

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Contributing Writers Marcy Lytle, Ginny Hurley, Mark Trice, John Pound, Erin Osborn, Georganne Schuch, David & Lynn Cherry, Al Jones, Jack Hammans, Gary Sinclair, Laura Bezden, Paul Tsui, Mike Giles, Joe Rodriguez, Ashley Brinkoeter, and Deborah Begley

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 7

12 features

The Studio Kitchen 11

I N N ts

Cover Story: 12 Head to Heart Ministries

Pastoral Counseling with the H eart of G od for the Whole Family

Dental Care 16 Advanced P Y E E

utting

and

ou at

Every Visit

ase

ach

Head to Heart

The “Unsung” Hero of The Christmas Story

uilding

tability

Men 10 ABFew Good R !

reak the

outine

Available at area Taco Bells

ear

nd

Giving

Parenting 17 Practical T ! I’ B

radition

m a

eliever !

Top Ten 18 Ladies A U -D C n

pside

own

hristmas

Cooking 18 Erin’s S P wirled

umpkin

Cream Cheese Squares

to the Max 19 Living H D

ealing

epression

Without Drugs

Hints 21 Helpful T P C

passages Faith&Family

15 Money Y -E

06

Body Life 10 B S

AUSTIN

id ou atch a old ?

Or Did You “Earn” It?

08

4

Indeed 14 Healthy D Y C C

columns Its the Thought that Counts... But the Gifts Really Do Matter

utrition

Journey for Two

ot about

he

erfect

hristmas

Gift

monthly faves 20 Community Calendar 22 Rave Reviews 22 The Source Directory www.AustinFaithandFamily.com

Editor's Note

Just another Christmas...

No Way!

Christmas doesn’t have to be just another holiday, a time of stress, you know…that same routine, year after year. You can never find that perfect gift, your visiting relative still drives you crazy, and money seems to slide out of your wallet faster than a bobsled at the winter games. Christmas can actually be quite pleasant…if you take time to breathe, smell the pine scent of the tree (or the candle, if your tree is artificial), and enjoy every light that twinkles.

And why not sit back and read some stories that are anything but “routine” in their content? In the Head to Heart article, you’ll read about the unsung hero of the Christmas story – and no – it’s not the little drummer boy. Helpful Hints will help you lay aside the search for perfection in your Christmas shopping by offering some great options for your gift-giving. And have you ever considered that at Christmas, it’s NOT really the “thought that counts?” Gifts do matter! Read about this in the Journey for Two article. How about turning your Christmas upside down? It can be done – and be lots of fun!

Read the ideas in the Ladies Top Ten. Whatever your Christmas routine, obviously you don’t want to give up the “reason for the season.” Jesus and his love is definitely why Christmas is so important to Christians! However, even He can become routine if we’re not careful, when we assume He’s present in all of our busy-ness, when actually we haven’t found time to acknowledge Him at all.

Finally, we are very proud of our cover story this month, featuring Head to Heart Ministries, founded by one of our writers, Al Jones, a guy who loves everything Christmas! If you do indeed suffer from the dread of another holiday, the stress of those slippery dollars, or just the blues that settle in when the season is over – Head to Heart is a place that welcomes you – just like you are!

Merry, Merry Christmas to You and Yours!

Marcy Lytle

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Journey for Two

It’s the Thought that Counts But the gifts really do matter When I met David, he

David & Lynn Cherry

was a sharp-dressed man. I rarely saw him outside of a suit and tie. Being a college student steeped in dorm life, I decided that he needed to loosen up a bit. To aid in that process I bought him a sweatshirt (It was a cool sweatshirt from his favorite store.) But throughout our courtship and into our early years of marriage, the only person who ever wore that thing was me. As our boys would say, it was an “epic fail.”

Staff Shoreline Church

marriage process he found gift giving as a prevailing expression of love. Gifts are a visual reminder of the love we share.

Relational giving Gifts that express our unique relationships have longevity. Unlike the sweater on sale at the mall, they last longer than one season. David hit a homerun when he put together a DVD of childhood pictures, videos of family and letters from friends. It celebrated all the significant relationships in my life. I felt cherished by so many people, especially David. This type of gift speaks of intimacy. Look for ways to make a relational connection in your gift giving.

Gifts are a visual

reminder

of the love we share. ” Have you ever done that? Missed the boat entirely when it came to giving a gift to your spouse? With the holidays approaching we thought it would be helpful to share a few of our failures and successes.

Hopefully your Christmas morning will feel a little more like love.

According to Gary Chapman, receiving gifts is one of the Five Love Languages - one of the ways we are wired to express and receive love. In his global study of the love-

Tune In One year I opened a note in my phone and began a list of gift ideas for David. He was making a steak rub and mentioned he had always wanted a pepper grinder with a crank on top. We were out with friends and I overheard him talking about a band from the 80’s they both loved. I made notes. I felt armed with success as I shopped off my list compiled from months of listening. When David opened those simple gifts he knew I had been paying attention. Look for gifts that say, “I know something about you that no one else knows.”

Stay within budget

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Christmas Eve Services 2 3:30 5 and 7P No services Christmas Day Austin Christian Fellowship 6401 River Place Blvd., Austin, TX 78730

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AustinChristianFellowship.org Available at area Taco Bells

David was thrilled with the extravagant gift he had planned of a night on the Riverwalk in San Antonio. He went all out. There were flowers in our hotel room,

a fantastic dinner, and an incredible view from the Concierge Level. Unfortunately, I knew we couldn’t afford it. I struggled to express the joy he was anticipating because all I could think about was how long it was going to take us to pay for the experience. A gift that blows the family budget may be exciting in the moment but can cause future strain. Look for ways to creatively express love while honoring the family finances.

Plan ahead Last minute gift giving may fill boxes but it lacks the impact of careful planning. Our first Christmas as a married couple found us with very little extra. By planning ahead, we were still able to give significant gifts. I wrote a poem for David and my mom helped me frame it. David searched through boxes in our storage shed, found my college diploma and had it framed. Those gifts took time.

Had we waited until the last minute, the gifts would have been socks and a hair bow.

Be intentional this Christmas. Tune in to each other, give gifts that celebrate your relationships, stay within budget, and take the time to plan ahead. Remember the reason we give is because God gave us the gift of his Son. Love gives. Let your gifts reflect the love you share.

Try This Talk about the most meaningful gifts you have exchanged with each other.

What made them special?

Read the Five Love Languages and complete the profiles in the back.

Look for ways to speak love in the language your spouse hears best.

Keep a list of gift ideas throughout the year so the holidays don’t find you filling a quota without clues.

www.AustinFaithandFamily.com

ROBERT M. PHILLIPS

Board Certified Criminal Law Specialist

Robert M. Phillips 2006, 2008 - 2010

Grace Academy Cross Country Wins TCAL State Championship

Texas Monthly “Super Lawyer”

Volleyball Finishes State Runner-Up In just its second season as a

member of the Texas Christian Athletic League (TCAL), Grace Academy won its first State Championship with a brand new girls Cross Country team. On October 15, 2011, new Cross Country coach Todd Hargrove took 5 girls and 2 boys to compete in the TCAL Div 2A State Championships in Waco. The Lady Lions took the team State Championship with outstanding individual performances. In the boys division, though we did not have enough runners to compete at the team level, Grace Academy still brought home both the gold and the silver individual medals. Coach Hargrove had this to say about their performance, “I am really proud of the effort the kids have given this year and glad to see that their hard work has paid off in such a satisfying way. We are looking forward to expanding the team next year so we can have a complete boys team as well.

We’re excited about going back and defending our titles.”

Not to be outdone, the Grace Academy Varsity Volleyball team made their second appearance in the TCAL State Championship Tournament in San Antonio in as many years.

They swept through the Quarterfinal and Semifinal rounds on Friday, October 21st, and put up a good fight in the TCAL Div 1A State Championship game on Saturday, October 22nd.

They ultimately fell short of the title 3 sets to 1 against a very talented Sunnybrook Christian Academy team. Two of our Lady Lion Volleyball players were named All-Tournament.

The Lady Lions will graduate two seniors this year but have a talented core group returning next year.

Follow all of the Grace Academy Lion and Lady Lion news online at www.GraceAcademy-gt.org.

- Ashley Brinkoeter

• AV-Rated, Martindale-Hubbell (Highest Rating Possible) Former Chief Felony Prosecutor, Dallas Co. & Williamson Co. • Over 200 Jury Trials to Date • 3,000 Felony & Misdemeanor Cases Handled • Defense of Federal, State & Juvenile Offenses • 30 Years Experience • Elder, Redeemer Presbyterian Church (P.C.A.) (Board Certified-Criminal Law, Texas Board of Legal Specialization)

401 W. 6th St. Georgetown, TX After 5pm • (512) 751-1926

(512) 930-1926 www.AustinFaithandFamily.com

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The “Unsung Hero” of the Christmas Story

Head-to-Heart

In

recent

years,

my

family has added to its Christmas traditions the viewing of The Nativity Story. One of the things that I appreciate most about that film is its portrayal of Joseph, who has been described as “the unsung hero of the Christmas story.” The Nativity Story gives him the attention he deserves.

Jack Hammans Head to Heart Minsitry www.headtoheart.org

“

As I have reflected on the character of Joseph, as described in Matthew’s account of the first Christmas, I have come to view him as a model of spiritual and emotional maturity. Several years ago when I was preparing a Christmas meditation on Joseph, an Old Testament text popped into my head—Micah 6:8 “He has shown you, O man, what is good. And what does the LORD require of you? To act justly, and to love mercy and to walk humbly with your God.” Joseph exemplified all of the qualities that the prophet Micah said that God is looking for in our lives, qualities of a spiritually and emotionally mature person.

A spiritually and emotionally mature person never seeks justice without at the same time showing mercy. ”

Joseph was a man who desired to act justly.

Matthew describes him as a “righteous man.” A righteous person is committed to always do right. When Joseph learned that Mary, his betrothed wife, was pregnant, he naturally assumed she had been unfaithful to him. As a devout Jew, who desired to act justly, he appealed to the Scriptures, the Torah, to define the right thing for him to do, and it was clear from Deuteronomy 24:1 that he was required to break his betrothal to Mary.

He acted accord-

YOU’RE INVITED!

ing to the light he had, but later when further light from heaven was shone on the situation, he changed course. All along, he was committed to do the right thing.

A spiritually and emotionally mature person is guided by the moral compass of the word of God. Joseph was a man who loved mercy.

Matthew tells us nothing of Joseph’s immediate emotional response to the news that Mary was pregnant. It would have been only natural for him to react with feelings of shock, disappointment, anger, and grief.

But as a mature person, Joseph controlled whatever negative emotions he felt. As he “considered these things,” love for Mary prevailed in his heart. He decided to act mercifully toward her. Although Joseph was devoted to the Law of Moses, he was not a narrow legalist. Had he been, he would have “thrown the book” at her and demanded either that she be stoned for adultery or dragged through a public divorce proceeding. Instead, he had reached a decision to arrange for a private divorce with two witnesses, which would have spared Mary from public shame and humiliation. A spiritually and emotionally person never seeks justice without at the same time showing mercy. To “love mercy” means in part to be forgiving and compassionate to those whom we perceive as our offenders.

Joseph was a man who walked humbly with God. Joseph’s life was not self-centered but God-centered. He was a Godreliant rather than a self-man. He did not take himself too seriously; he took God seriously. Through an angelic appearance in a dream, God revealed to Joseph the true, supernatural cause of her “problem

pregnancy,” and He told him to go through with his original intention to take Mary as his wife. God further instructed Joseph to name the virginally conceived child she was bearing, Jesus. Matthew 1:14, in The Message, says, “He did exactly what God told him to do.” In Matthew 2 we read of two other occasions when God spoke to Joseph through dreams and in each instance, Joseph did exactly what God told him to do.

A spiritually and emotionally mature person consistently seeks and follows God’s direction.

My favorite scene in The Nativity Story is a conversation between Mary and Joseph on their journey to Bethlehem. Mary asks Joseph, “What did the angel say to you?”

He replies, “Do not be afraid.” She says, “Are you afraid?” and he answers, “Yes.” I am sure that Joseph was afraid sometimes, when he felt the weight of the responsibility that had been placed on his shoulders of rearing the Son of God. But he kept walking humbly with God, choosing, as an old hymn says, to “trust and obey.”

Courage is another mark of a spiritually and emotionally mature person. True Christian courage does not mean denying our fear; it means facing the fear and walking through it, clinging to the hand of the One who has promised to never leave or forsake us.

Joseph, the “unsung hero of the Christmas story,” was a mature man of God who desired justice, sought mercy, and walked humbly with God. He was a spiritually and emotionally healthy person.

May God empower us to be the same.

NEXT LUNCHEON:

Luncheon Series

January 3rd 11:30-12:45

Successful people like you are finding it hard to remain positive in these trying times. Want to learn tips and techniques that others are using to be more successful than ever? You’re invited to take a brown bag lunch break on January 3rd from 11:30-12:45 to hear international business consultant Lewis Timberlake tell you why you should “Never Surrender to Fear.”

Bag lunches will be available for $5 but must be reserved in advance by emailing austinpc@att.net. We look forward to seeing you!

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Building Stability

Body Life

Our church building is an unusual type for Texas. It is built on concrete piers that go down some 40 feet to solid bedrock. The rest of the ground on our hillside moves fairly regularly. We have recently had to replace some sidewalks and put in retaining walls, but the building, because it rests on the bedrock, stands strong.

The Book of Hebrews says, “Yet once more I will shake not only the earth, but also the heaven.” (Chapter 12:26-29) The writer goes on to say that He does this so that what can be shaken will be removed, and what can’t be shaken will remain. The writer of Hebrews tells us that His kingdom is that which cannot be shaken. God wants us to build our lives upon Him and His principles so that when the shaking comes we will be able to stand strong.

John Pound Pastor New Hope Community Church

It

certainly

is

an

uncertain time in our nation and world. Jobs, economies, governments, and families appear to be wavering and, in some cases, shaking pretty violently. The Bible warns us that times like this will come. But God doesn’t want us to fear the future. He has a better plan. He can give you and your family a solid foundation.

A Few Good Men

I have recently been meditating on the strength of the Lord. The Psalmist says, “He is a Mighty God!” I have always thought of this in terms of His physical ability to create the universe, etc. But lately I have seen how strong He is mentally (you can’t out-think Him!), emotionally (you won’t catch Him on a down or bad day), and how resolute and strong He is in His will.

Three words come to mind: consistent, insistent, and persistent. I’m not trying to be cute here. What I build my life upon

is the fact that God is consistent in His character, He is insistent on His initiatives, and He is persistent in His plans.

God’s consistency of character demands that we know who He is. The good news is that He does not change. What we learn about Him at a young age is still true in our latter years. We will certainly learn more, but we can always count on Him being the “I AM”.

And knowing Him as He is teaches us how to be and how to live.

God’s insistence on His initiatives dictates that we have courage and faith.

God loves faith and will always put new challenges in our way which require courage. Courage is the faith to begin, to take the first step in something God is calling us to face. When one of my daughters was young, she climbed up on a swing set and was afraid. I went to her and asked her to “jump” a few inches into my arms. She would not do it. At first I felt so sorry for her in her fear, though it was obvious that I could and would catch her.

However, the longer she delayed the more frustrated I got. Soon I was angry at her doubting me. I thought of the times that I had refused to obey God. I realized that I was in essence saying, “No, God, I don’t believe

Break the Routine!

you can do what you say you will do.” I had chosen to stay in my fear instead. It was actually an offense to God who could certainly “catch” me, as well.

God’s persistence in His plan demonstrates His faithfulness. He simply doesn’t give up – He is a mighty God! And if we miss His will the first time, He will bring us around again until we get it right. He doesn’t lower His standards or His expectations for us.

Why is God this way? It is because this is what love is. It hopes all things, believes all things, endures all things…love never fails.

(See I Corinthians 13 for more on God’s kind of love) Do you want to build more stability in your life and in your family? Then build upon the only solid foundation – the consistent, insistent, and persistent God!

by Gary Sinclair http://www.neverquitclimbing.com

options (including football, of course) but we can get in a rut pretty quickly, can’t we?

My two-year-old grandson Liam is at that age where he repeats everything and information is being processed in his little, maturing brain at lightning speed. It’s scary how much he knows.

Many guys eat the same breakfast, wear the same clothes, watch the same TV programs, and follow the same rituals every day. Weekends may provide a slightly different set of

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Having a schedule that doesn’t change can be a security blanket for some guys, especially when other parts of life aren’t working.

I have a favorite theorem that’s probably true: When life is out of control in one area we try to over-control another one. There’s nothing wrong with consistency, and often our dedication to routine can be what helps our home stay together over the long haul.

Many wives appreciate that their husbands through their repetitive nature put gas in the car, mow the lawn, and provide financially.

However, I’d like to challenge us to break out of our mold a bit and surprise our families by doing the unexpected now and then.

How often do you break the routine and take your spouse somewhere out of the ordinary? You may already go on dates, which is great, but are you in a rut on this one too?

Same restaurant, always a dinner and a movie? Try talking with your spouse

and coming up with new things you can do together – not expensive, just unique.

And remember this: Half the fun is in the planning.

How about vacations? Lots of people go to the same lake, resort, or family locale every year. My son has a friend who, when he was growing up, always went to see his grandparents every Christmas and spring.

He told my son later that they never took a real vacation, and the friend was bitter about something that should have been an enjoyable time if it hadn’t been forced on him and his siblings twice a year.

You’ll get similar mileage out of your planning with your kids if you include them in your decisions.

Consider spontaneous surprises. How about planning an only dad knows day, evening, or hour, and letting your spouse and kids simply guess where they’re going? The surprise and anticipation will be just as important as the event.

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Caution! You can’t do this if your family has no margin in which to add a family event, vacation, or special surprise. Too many families have their schedules so jampacked with games, practices, rehearsals, clubs, and church events they don’t have time to do anything out of the ordinary.

Let me tell you – It’s not worth it! The things my kids remember most are not the times we were busiest but the times we did things out of the ordinary . . . together . . . climbing a mountain, looking at the Grand Canyon, singing in the car, or celebrating their baptism.

Men. . . We need to lead the way by realizing there are colors out there for us and our families, beyond green. We can start now to change the routine a little.

And when we figure out how to do that, we’ll bring a richness and fullness into our homes that will last a lifetime.

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The Studio Kitchen

It’s Not about Nutrition

An introduction to a great site for parents Being in the food

business, I’m always looking for good data on the subject of the picky eater. I recently found a great resource at www.itsnotaboutnutrition.com created by Dina R. Rose, Ph.D. Below follows one of many articles from her that I think parents will find extremely useful: The Happy Bite When it comes to fruits and vegetables, what’s your goal? Do you want your kids to like them? Or just to eat them? It sounds like a silly question. You probably want to answer “both.” After all, kids who like fruits and vegetables presumably eat more of them than kids who don’t like fruits and vegetables.

But let’s say you had to pick one goal over the other, which would it be? To help you think about this, let’s turn the question on its head.

If you had to accept only one of the following conditions, which would you prefer? A) Your children like vegetables but eat only one happy bite at dinner.

B) Your children don’t like vegetables but will eat a full serving, usually with your urging.

If you want your children to develop a lifelong habit of eating vegetables, go with answer A: The Happy Bite.

It’s a longterm technique that pays off. The Happy Bite produces: positive associations with food for your kids, a doable eating “assignment, pleasant mealtime interactions between you and your children, and the right lifelong eating habits. The Happy Bite rocks. It’s the no-pressure way to teach your kids the right lifelong habits.

Sadly, most parents go after consumption, not after liking.

A friend recently asked me if my daughter eats salad. The awe and admiration he expressed when I said “yes” turned sour, however, when I elaborated. “She eats a very small spoonful every night, and we only serve her items from the salad that we know she enjoys.” In other words, we lose the lettuce, but pile on the cucumbers, tomatoes, and any other vegetable that has made it into the mix. My friend responded with some version of, “I could get my son to eat salad too if I did it that way. But that’s not really eating salad.” So he gave up trying.

You might feel the same way. You might also want more from your kids. But I’ve got a happy saladeating habit going. My daughter is open to salad because of The Happy Bite. Pressuring her to eat more salad, or to eat more items from the salad, would

ruin the whole thing. Besides, more will come in time.

The nutrition model encourages parents to count bites, but it’s counterproductive. It’s not surprising parents focus on consumption—How else can you comply with the USDA’s recommendation to fill half your kids’ plates with fruits and vegetables?—but it’s a shame. When you push kids to eat more, they usually eat less.

Focusing on consumption distracts parents from their main mission: actively cultivating their children’s appreciation for fruits and vegetables. Liking has to proceed [sic] consumption. Makes sense, right?

But there’s more. By focusing on consumption parents are actually undermining their own efforts. Kids don’t usually develop positive associations with foods

they’ve been forced to eat. In the long run this tactic is a bust.

Happy Bites, however, produce Happy Feelings!

Sometimes less is more. The key to new food acceptance—i.e. to liking—is to focus on exposure, not volume.

It doesn’t matter how much your children eat. What matters is how frequently they eat it. Over time, consumption always increases. (One day your child might even actually order a restaurant salad for dinner!)

In the meantime, remember this: Happy Bites add up. Use them frequently throughout the day and you’ll be surprised by the results you will get.

For more insights like this one, please visit www.itsnotaboutnutrition.com.

- Laura Bezden www.thestudiokitchcen.com

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Cover Story

by Marcy Lytle

Editor of AFF • www.marcylytle.com

Head to Heart Restoration Ministry

Pastoral Counseling with the Heart of God for the Whole Family Baseball, hotdogs, and apple pie

– America has it all, right? Not so, according to the counselors at Head to Heart Restoration Ministries. Al Jones, Jack Hammans, and Tom Coker, all agree that America, if compared to a baseball, is literally unraveling at the seams.

And these three men are Licensed Pastoral Counselors with a passion to stitch up the exposed areas of the heart through prayer and counseling, guided by the Holy Spirit. The Greater Austin area is just a slice of the American pie, and that slice doesn’t quite look like the pie served at Aunt Bee’s table in Mayberry, when Opie and his dad, Andy Griffith, pulled up a seat for dinner. Many are not whistling a happy tune when they arrive at the door of Head to Heart, but after ministry takes place…heavy loads are lifted and the heart is restored.

Al Jones, Ph.D., Director of Head to Heart, says he always had a heart for counseling but felt disqualified.

After arguing with God about his calling, he enrolled in the National Christian Counselors Association program and began his training. Jack Hammans, Associate Pastor at New Hope Community Church in Round Rock, came alongside Al (he was actually Al’s first student!) and Tom Coker joined just a couple of years ago. They form a cord of three counselors, and together they experience a strong bond with each other, and with their heavenly Father.

Head to Heart opened in October of 2005, and moved to its current location in Round Rock in May of this year.

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How does pastoral counseling differ from other counseling services? It’s really a one-of-a-kind offering, where these counselors are “ordained ministers, with a focus on counseling,” says Al. Jack says other licensed counselors use “talk therapy” but Head to Heart adds in that all important ingredient of prayer. They believe that Jesus is the Ultimate Healer, and they point their clients to finding out their identity in Him and to inner healing from all that is broken.

Tom says their faith is an integral part of all that they do.

“It’s not us – it’s God through us.” Jack says he prays before each session, “You direct us by Your counsel.” He adds, “Every session is an exercise in faith.” Many of the clients at Head to Heart report that they have been to sessions elsewhere and never experienced healing like they do after encountering Jesus. Head to Heart sees their ministry as an extension of the local church, helping people when pastors and staff are not equipped, or when churches are simply unable to meet the needs of their people.

Many stories testify to the amazing healing that happens when counseling, with prayer, takes place. Al says one particular lady who had experienced years of abuse was touched

by God and was able to forgive, which she then described as a “weight” being lifted off of her shoulders. Jack had a couple experiencing a horrible situation, full of mistrust and anger, visit him for help. After winning over the husband’s trust, the couple both repented, confessed, and forgave each other, and at one point wanted to “hire” Jack permanently – Available at area Taco Bells

which of course didn’t happen. However, their story had a good ending. Jack told them, “You did the work, with God,” which he says is paramount to experiencing victory over any conflict. And finally, Tom says that sometimes unbelievers show up. He recently led a man to Christ as they visited… and breakthrough occurred.

The counselors at Head to Heart see people for many reasons such as marital conflicts, emotional crises, depression, stress & anxiety issues, behavioral or emotional concerns in children, addictions, abuse, spiritual and religious issues, and more. However, these reasons are not usually the “root” issue. Tom says they are often embedded in rejection or father wounds, or arise out of unforgiveness. Al says many counseling services offer “behavior modification.”

However, he amusingly adds, “You can go to Pets Mart for that.” The root cause has to be addressed in order to cut off the behavior or emotion associated with that root, and Head to Heart focuses on the root.

NCCA (National Christian Counselors Association) is the largest pastoral counselor training program in the nation and Al, Jack, and Tom are all licensed through the NCCA. In addition, Head to Heart is a certified training program for the NCCA. Their cost is much less than found elsewhere among other counseling services. Many churches use Head to Heart as their referral of choice, and some churches even pay for part or all of the counseling for their members. Head www.AustinFaithandFamily.com

to Heart operates as a nonprofit organization and appreciates donations to help cover the costs of their rent and overhead. They keep their counseling fees low enough so that money is not a reason to stay away from experiencing healing and freedom.

Unfortunately, those who are believers are sometimes just as broken as their nonbelieving neighbors. Why is this so? Jack repeats that forgiveness is the key, and the wounds are often tied to childhood issues like rejection, shame, and abandonment. When these types of wounds occur, we often sinfully react and therefore become broken and build up a false identity that can only carry us so far in life. Jack further states that getting people to identify this false self and then connect to God’s purpose is hard – but necessary – for healing to take place.

The number of children who enter into counseling at Head to Heart is growing. Al says that often parents say the children have no trouble at school, or at church – but at home – it’s a different story. Many are experiencing wounds from blended families, or come from schedules that are so regimented and controlled for them, they have no idea what to do when they are alone – and their behavior goes out of control. There are no more Opie’s running the streets of Mayberry, so to speak, because America’s children are not allowed to be children.

We are a performance-based society with a Vitamin G deficiency (“G” stands for “grace.”)

Many feel that counseling is costly and mostly just “talk,” so why pay for that? However, sometimes, especially teens, experience a measure of healing from having someone to listen to them and hear their frustration. The trust issue is a big hurdle to overcome, as those who visit Head to Heart want to feel “safe” as they share their hearts. And still others feel as though they are the “only one” in their shoes, and are too ashamed to share. A few clichés were thrown out as we talked on this subject, such as “Expressing it makes it real,” “The only way out is through,” or “If you can’t feel it you can’t heal it.”

Pastoral counseling at Head to Heart is not formulaic, shares Jack.

It’s Spirit directed. Al says they don’t “look” deep for repressed memories, but rather wait on God to reveal what needs to surface…and healing takes place. As they like to say, “What God reveals he desires to heal.”

It’s the gift It’s the gift It’ s It’s the gift that keeps giving, that keeps giving, that keeps giving, that keeps giving,

and giving, and giving, and giving, and giving, and giving, and giving, and giving, and giving, and giving, and giving, and giving, and giving, and giving, and giving, and giving, and giving, giving... and and giving... and giving...

So, what warning signs can we all see, so that we don’t wait until it’s too late to fix that which is broken, or at least find it very difficult to do so? Tom says that brokenness often precipitates a visit for counseling, but there are some clues that we’re heading for trouble, if we just take notice, early on. When communication gaps appear, or minor happenings begin to pile up into a mountain of unresolved issues… it’s time to seek counseling. Resentment towards those we love, or avoiding their presence is another telltale sign of a need for help. And unresolved grief or loss can be another catalyst for seeking care.

What if you’re in a relationship that’s suffering? It doesn’t matter if the other half of your relationship isn’t willing to go, Tom says you can change and experience healing and health in your emotional being.

And the very thing all three counselors enjoy most about their job?

Has God Seeing people healed and changed, ofcalled course! you

to Heart HeadHead to Heart offersoffers Christian Compassionate Christian HeadCompassionate to Heart offers marriage and individual marriage and individual Compassionate Christian counseling which restores counseling which restores hope hope marriage and individual lifewhich coaching that provides or lifeor coaching that provides counseling restores hope counseling which restores hope Has GodHas God direction in direction in or life coaching that provides called called you to you to or life coaching that provides Has Godthe ministry the ministry the Round the Roundin Has God direction to called you to direction in of Christian of Christian called you to the ministr y the ministry Rock and Rock and Counseling? the Round Counseling?

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Rock and Counseling ?

Counseling?

Heart School Heart School spiritual healing, by becoming more like Christ. They unapologetically Rockt ando Counseling?

Head Head toof Pastoral urge their clients to develop a relationship with the only true Healer of of Pastoral Austin area.

Head Heart School Heartto School

It’s the gift

that keeps giving,

and giving, and giving, and giving, and giving, Austin area.

Counseling Counseling Heart School of Pastoral provides provides training training Counseling of Pastoral and licensure and licensure provides training provides trainingthe Counseling throughthrough the For more information on Head and to Heart Ministries, visit licensure and licensure provides National National training www.headtoheart.org. Or call (512) 733-8000.

They are conveniently through the through the 403 W. Anderson Ave •Rock, Round Rock, Texas 78664 403 W. Anderson Ave • Round Texas 78664 Christian and licensure Christian located just off I-35 in Round Rock at 403 W. Anderson Avenue.

512.733.8000 • www.headtoheart.org 512.733.8000 • www.headtoheart.org National National Counselors Counselors through the 403 W. Anderson Ave • Round Rock, Texas 78664 Christian Christian Association.

Association.

National 512.733.8000 • www.headtoheart.org Counselors Counselors 403 W. Anderson Ave • Round Rock, Texas 78664 Christian www.AustinFaithandFamily.com Faith&Family 13 Available at area Taco Bells Association.

Association.

512.733.8000 • www.headtoheart.org the mind, body, and emotions – Jesus. And when that takes place, it’s of like a homerun, ball out of the park, a standing ovation, as theP one who astoral Counseling is healed runs the bases and finishes with a score!

and giving...

Head to Heart offers Compassionate Christian

AUSTIN

Counselors Association.

Healthy Indeed

Did You Catch a Cold?

Or Did You “Earn” It? I am sure you have heard the phrase “catching a cold.” Have you ever stopped to ponder about whether you really “catch” a cold or “earn” it?

Paul Tsui, N.D. Natural Wellness Round Rock healthyindeed@gmail.com www.healthyindeed.com

“ Healing colds can

be as easy as A-C-B. ”

This article is written for information and education purposes only. It is not to be used as diagnosis, treatment or prescription. The products and information described herein are natural foods which are NOT meant to treat, cure, diagnose, or prevent any disease. Please seek for medical help immediately for any health concerns.

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Faith&Family

Healing colds can be as easy as A-C-B. “A” stands for Activation, meaning during the early phase of cold symptoms, one must right away activate the body’s energy strength to push whatever is causing the irritation out of the system. Follow that up with “C” for Cleansing, to help the body get rid of what is irritating it by opening up the various channels of elimination in the body. Finally, replenish the nutrients the body has lost to fight off the disease and nurse your cellular environment back to a healthy state by Building “B.” ACTIVATE - Pungent herbs such as capsicum, ginger, and horseradish are excellent activating agents to help your body push out the virus and microbes. The world-renowned master herbalist Dr. Christopher has a 200year old herbal combination that is excellently formulated for this purpose. It is called HCP-X or Herbal Composition Powder. It is designed for colds, flu, fever, and other acute ailments. To maximize its activation effect, you may want to brew it into a tea using 2-3 capsules per cup of water. Sip the warm tea frequently throughout the day. Avoid drinking cold water when you are sick. HCP-X may be too strong for little children. I recommend CC-A with Yerba Santa for the same effect on children. Give a small dose (~1/4 to 1/2 teaspoon) every 30 minutes with plenty of water. Adults may take the CC-A formula for the same purpose as well. During this phase, try to avoid eating solid food. Limit yourself to fresh vegetable or fruit juices and/or clear soups (e.g. homemade chicken soup). And don’t forget to drink lots of water.

CLEANSE - To support flushing irritants out of your body, consider cleaning your colon first. By clearing the colon, you might often break a fever and dramatically reduce congestion within minutes. An enema is a quick way of doing this. However, if taking an enema is not your style, there are other ways. Taking digestive enzymes such as Proactazyme Plus or Food Enzymes every hour with plenty of water will help break down material in the intestines and clear the colon within 2-6 hours. Consider also taking bitter herbs such as Goldenseal/Echinacea or Oregon Grape to clear the digestive tract and cool the body system down. Again, do not eat solid food in order to give your digestive system a break during this phase of recovery. And drink lots of water.

BUILD – Once the symptoms of illness have subsided and your energy is returning, you will start eating again. But don’t introduce heavy solid foods right away. Start with soups with meat and work up more solid foods over a 24-hour period. Within 48 hours, you can resume eating regular foods as your symptoms continue to improve. If there is a relapse, then it is an indication that you are moving too fast. Go back to soupbased and juice-based fluids again for at least another 24 hours.

PREVENTION – When it comes to colds and flu, the holistic thought believes it is because your immune system was compromised for some reason. In this weakened state, viruses and foreign microbes in the air (abundant during the cold season) can easily invade your body system and take residence and attack your immune defenses even further.

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We therefore recommend that you keep your internal environment system clean by undergoing a cleanse before the cold/flu season. A liver or colon cleanser would be an excellent starting point. You can further boost your immune system by taking Vitamin D3, Elderberry Defense (a potent Elderberry and D3 combination) or Ultimate Echinacea. We also have Calcium Plus D3, Whole Foods Antioxidant, and Elderberry Immune in delicious chewable form for children.

Keeping your home’s air clean and free of airborne pathogens is also an important part of prevention. There is an air sanitizer on the market that features nanotechnology to produce redundant oxidizers and nano-silver particles to sanitize in-home air by neutralizing and killing airborne pathogens and aeroallergens.

By taking the above steps to heart, you and your family will be able to combat viruses before and during the coming cold/flu season. It is my sincere desire that your immune system is strong throughout this winter season so that you won’t have to “earn” any colds at all.

For more information on how to overcome colds and flu naturally, contact one of our stores – Cedar Park (512-528-0130), Round Rock (512-310-8880).

“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)

www.AustinFaithandFamily.com

Money

by Mark Trice

Year-End Giving

JOIN A COMMUNITY

NOT A GYM

What impact can your family make?

Did

you

know

that

December is one of the busiest months for giving?

“Of course!” you say. It’s the Christmas season after all, and everyone is focused on that perfect gift for their friends and loved ones. But for most churches and non-profit ministries, the last few months of the year will set the tone financially for the coming year. How will your family make an impact for the Lord in 2012 by what you give this month?

I don’t want to bore you with details about how the financial sausage is made, so to speak.

Yet, many Christians don’t realize that the gifts and donations received in 2011 will directly impact the ability of your favorite ministry or church to do what they have been called to do in the next calendar year. The reality is that many churches see donations and tithes stop or slow down in the first few months of the calendar year. Therefore, most ministries have to store up reserves to operate as usual during the slower donation months. If cash reserves are not built up, some ministries cannot operate at full capacity. This could mean reducing or eliminating vital programs or perhaps reducing even more vital staff. Yet many ministries are faced with this challenge each and every year.

The YMCA of Austin has what you need for Fitness, Child Care, Sports, Camp, Group Exercise, Dance, Swimming, Senior Programs, Arts & Humanities & more at 7 area locations in Travis & Hays counties.

Join the Y Dec.26-Jan.31 and

SAVE $48!

PAY NO JOIN FEE & RECEIVE a FREE GIFT*.

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You see, we humans are generally not regular and consistent givers. Of course, I don’t mean YOU in particular…but in general, many Christians are inconsistent in their giving. The World wants us to be generous toward others but only after we have satisfied all of our earthly desires.

For perspective, let’s look at Proverbs 21:26, “Some people are always greedy for more, but the YMCA of Austin December 2011 godly love to give.” We tend to give when we have something left over at the end of the month or end of the year.

Austin Faith ad.indd 1

11/15/2011 1:25:54 PM

Think for a moment about the verse above. It sounds as if giving is fun. Perhaps giving is an experience that is enjoyable or pleasurable? From my own experience, I can tell you that giving is fun because it is exactly what God would want my family to do.

I cannot begin to number the blessings my family has been given, and our giving is simply an acknowledgment of those blessings.

God has provided us a very clear picture for giving. He wants us to Give First, save for the future, and then fund our lifestyle. After giving, do whatever you want with your money exchange gifts with family and friends during the holidays, take a trip, buy a new car - it’s your decision. We see in the Book of John, Chapter 3 that God gave first. He gave us His best.

“For God loved the world so much that he gave his one and only Son…” John 3:16. He gave so much of Himself…sacrificially. All he asks of us is to give a little back of what is already His. I think a prayer of David best illustrates what our attitude toward giving should be. “…everything in the heavens and on earth is yours, O Lord, and this is your kingdom. We adore you as the one who is over all things. Wealth and honor come from you alone, for you rule over everything…Everything we have has come from you and we give you only what you first gave us!” David had it right. Giving is an act of worship.

This is the season we celebrate the birth of our Savior Jesus, the gift God gave to the world.

One great way to celebrate this gift is to give back a little of what we have been given financially.

Make your family’s gifts part of your worship experience this holiday season. Engage your children in the process of giving. Share with them scriptures in the Bible and remind them of the spectacular gift we have been given through Christ. This year, I encourage you to not only give but give generously, even sacrificially, if so led. Your family will be blessed by the worship experience of giving generously. Your family will be blessed by giving back a small portion of what God has already provided.

Have a wonderful and joyous season of giving. Christ the Savior is born! Let’s celebrate by giving. www.AustinFaithandFamily.com

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15

Advanced Dental Care “Putting You at Ease Each and Every Visit” A

soothing

waterfall,

a

beautiful landscape outside a glass window, comfy chairs with desktops to pull out for reading…does this sound like a dentist’s office? I didn’t think so, either. Advanced Dental Care is not your typical cold, smelly, boxed-in dental facility. It’s warm, cozy, and inviting, just as if you were stepping into someone’s home for a nice visit.

Justin Jay D’Abadie knew as a kid that he wanted to be a medical professional; however, he also had a desire to balance family, faith, and work. Being a dentist has allowed him to do just that, and he’s now been in business 34 ½ years, with his business winning awards from Texas Monthly for Super Dentist and Austin Monthly for Top Dentist.

Dr. D’Abadie says the first dental experience one has sets the tone for subsequent visits, so he strives to make that first one a pleasant one. The Advanced Dental Care staff makes every effort to get to know you and your needs, and then they “tailor” their care so that you are comfortable and secure, before any work begins on the teeth.

“Great leadership” makes Advanced Dental Care the place for your dental needs, according to Dr. D’Abadie. “I believe

God has directed me and has come alongside of me. By that discipline in life a great team of people who share a common goal have been joined together.”

When asked what he loves most about his job, Dr. D’Abadie was quick to reply, “Everything!” He loves taking people from their worst circumstances to bring them quick relief, and he enjoys taking a “broken” person and giving them their smile back so they are fully functional once again. He is currently part of Give Back a Smile where he treats victims of domestic violence who have been disfigured, enabling them to reenter the marketplace, gain employment, and walk with confidence.

Early on, Dr. D’Abadie learned what it meant to trust in God with his business. In the economic downturn of the 1980’s he was behind on his mortgage and had to file Chapter 11. Through a series of what seemed to be unfortunate events, D’Abadie developed a business plan, at the same time having to show up in court for a judgment ruling. As he was leaving the courtroom, a counselor stated that “by the grace of God” the outcome was in D’Abadie’s favor, to which D’Abadie asked, “Can I introduce you to God?” D’Abadie states that God is his protector and provider in all things, and everything worked together for good out of that bad situation.

At Advanced Dental Care, patients receive “chair side manners and friendly conversation.” Comfort is the first concern.

Dr. D’Abadie states that we all do the things we want to do, and then there are things we “have” to do…like go to the dentist. It only makes sense to help patients enjoy their dental procedures to make life easier. The idea of dental work brings anxiety to many, but it’s a routine part of life.

And “prevention, prevention, prevention” is the key, according to D’Abadie.

Dr. D’Abadie mentioned the movie The Sound of Music.

Remember the lyrics, “Just a spoonful of sugar makes the medicine go down…?” At Advanced Dental Care, patients might walk in dreading what’s about to “go down,” full of anxiety about the money being spent, the time they are losing from work, and oftentimes fear from past experiences in the dental chair. However, just like that spoonful of sugar, when it’s all said and done, there’s a sweet aftertaste that lingers as the patient leaves… and they don’t mind coming back for more.

Need a new dental home for your family?

Advanced Dental Care is conveniently located at 6500 McNeil Dr. Bldg 1, phone 512-331-1477.

- Marcy Lytle

Pain-Free • Sedation • Drill-Free Fillings Cosmetic • Implants • Invisalign • Bleaching Periodontal Therapy

89

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512-331-1477

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*Includes comprehensive exam, digital bitewing x-rays, custom bleach trays and a tube of gel.

Dr. Justin D’Abadie

Advanced Dental Care is proud to support the mission of Austin Faith & Family 16

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Faith&Family

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www.AustinFaithandFamily.com

Practical Parenting

Tradition! I’m a Believer

by Georgeanne Schuch • www.blog.coffeedogz.com

for gas) and ensures that everyone participates, since we’re crammed in the van together.

We try to share the holiday with someone else. Last year we started what we hope to be a new tradition of spending a weekend in December with friends in San Antonio. We watch stupid Christmas movies, eat a lot, and go to a nativity drive-thru.

I bake Christmas cookies with my children. I save a special afternoon just before Christmas to decorate sugar cookies. Again, the gaudier, the better we like it.

Gaudy seems to be a theme here.

We decorate Thanksgiving weekend so we can enjoy the holiday décor for the whole month of December. One year, though, I was very sick, and we were not able to pull out all of our decorations. The girls were sad about not having at least a Christmas tree, so they improvised by drawing a tree, complete with decorations, on butcher paper and taping it to the wall. It was definitely our most memorable Christmas and one for which we had much to be thankful.

Family traditions are the real

backbone of most holiday celebrations. Suggest even a minor change to a well-set tradition, and you might get kicked right out of the family. Some traditions are, indeed, ingrained in children so tightly that when they are grown and newly married many an argument centers around which family’s tradition is most important. Add children to the mix in a few years; and oh the grief and agony over something as simple as a dinner...

I, for one, am a big believer in traditions. I believe traditions convey more meaning to holidays and other special occasions than any gift possibly can. Some traditions may be more accurately classified as habits, in which case they can be modified to suit the situation. However, even habitual traditions can be very meaningful. We celebrated my mother’s tradition last Christmas with fajitas on Christmas Eve, just as we had for probably the last ten years. The tradition was more for us since she couldn’t eat, but we got our last Christmas pictures with her sharing a favorite meal.

I try to make sure all the girls have Christmas pajamas to wear to bed on Christmas Eve. It makes the pictures in the morning a little classier, or as classy as they can be, with bed-head hair.

Finally, but not least important, we spend quite a bit of time extolling the reason for Christmas. There are several books which follow the Advent season. Our most recent favorite is Jotham’s Journey, a book with about a 10-minute read-aloud per day and discussion questions. This young shepherd’s journey to Bethlehem to meet the Christ-child literally had us hanging on the edge of our seats.

Then, on Christmas morning, we read the Christmas story straight from the books of Matthew and Luke in the Bible.

Having been pregnant through several Christmases, I can’t help but feel a special kinship with Mary. Traveling on a donkey with no public restrooms, eight or so months along, and giving birth in a barn, she certainly deserves a special place in history.

So, this year, instead of focusing on the glitz of Christmas, try planning some fun traditions that make the season special in ways that your family will remember for years and years to come.

Other traditions are sentimental, like couples who always go to a certain restaurant or have a certain dessert for their anniversary. My husband always gets me stargazer lilies because they were in my wedding bouquet. My parents had lemon pound cake every year. Again, sentimental traditions are not worth fighting over, but they are usually very meaningful to the individuals involved.

Regardless of the reasoning behind a tradition, even simple celebrations create special memories for everyone, especially children. I have been guilty over the years of trying to traditionalize the entire Christmas season.

That makes it more of a chore than fun, so I’ve picked some of my favorite activities for this year and hope to make it simply special for my children.

We like to drive around looking at Christmas lights. The more gaudy, the better we like it. This is low cost (except www.AustinFaithandFamily.com

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Faith&Family

17

Ladies Top Ten Tradition

is

what

Christmas is all about, right? Well, what about breaking some traditions and starting something completely off the wall, like hanging your tree upside down, instead of right side up? It’s actually becoming a “trend” to do this in some places. So for all of you who like something a little different, and like to think outside the box (or upside down) here are a few ideas to break tradition and enhance the season!

Lie on your back and look UP – Prepare some hot apple cider ahead of time, and pop a bag of popcorn.

Then take sleeping bags and blankets and lay them out on the hood of your car, or on your driveway. Lie down on your backs and observe a clear winter’s night, and share the Christmas story with your kids.

An Upside Down Christmas

2

Flip-flop your spending – Say you spend $300 on gifts and give $50 to a charity. Consider spending the larger amount on those in need, and the lesser amount on yourselves. Then be creative in your giving and you won’t miss out on a thing!

3

Eat under the table - Do you always have a huge Christmas dinner with a table full of dishes that take hours to make, and you end up too exhausted to enjoy your gifts? Why not turn the experience upside down? Spread out a blanket under the table, picnic style, and serve finger food, while the entire family lies on their stomach to chat and chew.

1

Hang the tree upside down – Floor space. We all need it, right?

Hanging the Christmas tree from a hook screwed into ceiling, upside down, gives your tree a whole new look, and the ornaments actually “hang,” instead of being crooked as they lay on a limb. And because the point of the tree is at the bottom, presents fit neatly stacked for a perfect photo!

8

4

Go underground – Most holiday road trips are made, well, on the road. Traveling to see the grandparents, and then back home again.

Why not consider going underground for a holiday adventure? Visit a cave nearby (In-

ner Space, Natural Bridge Caverns, Cave Without a Name) and see if you can tour it by flashlight or lantern!

5

Upside Down Drawings – Pick a day and gather the family around with markers, pens, pencils, and sketch paper. Draw names, and then proceed to draw the person whose name you’ve drawn – upside down – feet at the top – head at the bottom. Be sure to display your creations in an art showing that evening, with refreshments for everyone.

6

Baked potatoes upside down – Usually we bake our potatoes, cut them open, and start topping them with the good stuff. Offer the family a surprise one evening and place all the toppings on the plate first, then turn the potato upside down to cover them. The meal then becomes an adventure to see what “toppings” are underneath all of that tasty goodness on top.

7

Smile – Did you know it takes 37 muscles to frown, and only 22 to smile? So conserve energy this holiday season and smile more. Disappointed? Depressed? It takes work, but you can train your mouth to turn upwards, and it’s amazing how it also lifts the spirit!

9

Easy upside down cake – Take 1 package mini marshmallows, 1 box any flavor cake mix, and 1 can of pie filling for this sweet dessert. Pour marshmallows into greased 13X9 pan. Prepare cake mix as reads on the box, and pour in the pan. Spread out the pie filling and bake at 350 degrees for 40 minutes.

Cool and serve with whipped cream.

10

Forgive your worst enemy – This upside down activity may be the hardest. The “normal” thing to do when someone has hurt you is to hate that person. Ask for the gift of Christ’s love to enter your heart – the kind of love that forgives enemies – and see if you can turn your heart inside out, upside down, and land in a joyful place this season!

- Marcy Lytle

Erin’s Cooking

by Erin Osborn

Made for the Holidays I

LOVE

CHRISTMAS!

True statement. Everything about it makes me want to smile a bit brighter, laugh a little louder, and cook quite obsessively. You know those “made for the holidays” kind of recipes?

Yes, I’m all into that sort of thing. I’m one of those consumers that marketers know how to influence. Just print a holly berry on that box of Chex cereal and I will make all four of those Chex Mix recipes on the back. You tell me it’ll vamp up my Christmas party by making this specific dessert; I’ll test it 12 different ways to make sure it’s up to Santa Claus standards.

Ho, ho, ho!

Okay, maybe that’s a bit of an exaggeration, but I do look forward to the holiday season all year. I love that it brings family and friends together. I am so thankful that it has created a detour in the normal routine of

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things, as my family plans a trip to Detroit to see my brother for Christmas. My brother is a U.S. Marine stationed in Kingsport, Michigan. Per the circumstances, we don’t get to see him but once or twice a year. What a great excuse to spend Christmas in the snow! I can just picture myself in cozy P.J.s and fuzzy slippers, sipping hot chocolate as the snow falls on the windowsill. Can you say Norman Rockwell? Cheers!

Swirled Pumpkin Cream Cheese Squares 6 tablespoons butter, melted & cooled 1 3/4 cups sugar • 3 large eggs 1 cup canned pumpkin 1 3/4 cups all-purpose flour 1 1/2 teaspoons ground cinnamon 1 teaspoon baking soda

1/2 teaspoon baking powder 1/2 teaspoon ground nutmeg ¼ teaspoon ground cloves 1 package (8 oz.) cream cheese In a bowl, with an electric mixer on medium speed, beat butter and 1 1/2 cups sugar until smooth. Beat in 2 eggs, pumpkin, and 1/3 cup water until well blended, scraping down sides of bowl as needed.

In another bowl, mix flour, cinnamon, baking soda, baking powder, nutmeg and cloves; stir or beat into butter mixture until well blended. Spread batter evenly in a buttered and floured 9x13-inch baking pan.

In a bowl, with an electric mixer on medium speed, beat cream cheese, remaining egg, and remaining 1/4 cup sugar until smooth.

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Drop cream cheese mixture in 24 evenly spaced 1-tablespoon portions over batter.

Pull a knife tip through filling to swirl slightly into batter.

Bake in a 350° oven until center of pumpkin batter (not cream cheese mixture) springs back when touched, about 2530 minutes. Let cool completely in pan, then cut into 24 bars. www.AustinFaithandFamily.com

Living to the Max

Healing Depression without Drugs The Scriptures abound

Dr. Joe Henry Rodriguez Pure Chiropractic Wellness

www.purechiropracticwellness.com

“

drive, changes in appetite, and insulin resistance. There is also mounting evidence that Omega-3 deficiency is linked to depression. “Our brain is made up of Omega-3s, and if you are deficient in them, the cells in your brain malfunction and you are much more likely to become depressed.” (Jonathan Zeuss, The Wisdom of Depression.)

with positive encouragement to combat negative thoughts and depression. One of God’s top priorities for his children is to change their thinking. “Do not conform any longer to the pattern of this world, but be transformed by the renewing of your mind” (Romans 12:2a.) God even tells us what to think about: whatever is true, noble, right, pure, lovely, admirable, excellent, and praiseworthy. We are even commanded to be joyful always in I Thessalonians 5:16. So why do we as Christians, filled with the power of the Spirit and armed to fight spiritual battles (especially the battle for the mind) feel we cannot function without depression medications? Are there other contributing factors we can change before resorting to dangerous anti-depressants which have been found to cause the very problems they are designed to treat?

Today 6 out of 10 Americans are depressed and 3 out of 10 are clinically depressed, with $76 billion in international psychiatric drug sales. It appears a vicious cycle is at work, when people are diagnosed with depression because of a chemical imbalance and then chemical medications are prescribed to restore the brain’s natural complex functions. Surprisingly, chemical imbalance has never been proven as “the cause.” It’s really only a theory.

Robert Spitzer, MD, Professor of Psychiatry at Columbia University, (one of the doctors who wrote The Diagnosis and Statistical Manual of Mental Disorders) admits psychiatric diagnoses of depression, ADHD, etc., are not based on science.

The New England Journal of Medicine reports that anti-depressants were not found to be more effective than placebos. And ironically, the side effects for anti-depressants include

Are there other contributing factors we can change before resorting to dangerous

anti-depressants

which have been found to cause the very problems they are designed to treat?

”

Wellness and prevention care adherents recognize interference as the outside treatments that block the body’s natural chemical production and communication systems, inhibiting healthy expression of tissues and organs, and that living the 5 Essentials removes the interferences which in turn allows the body to heal from “above, down, inside out.”

agitation, anxiety, headache, insomnia, nausea, nervousness, sexual dysfunction, suicidal thoughts, violent behavior, and weight gain, to name many.

Truly understanding that the body produces all the chemicals it needs to function at 100% without the use of man-made substitutes is crucial. B.J. Palmer, the father of chiropractic, through extensive research proposed that all living things have an “inborn intelligence” within their bodies, called Innate Intelligence. The function of Innate Intelligence is to adapt universal forces and matter for use in the body, so that all parts of the body will have coordinated action for mutual benefit. Interference with the transmission of innate forces causes incoordination of “dis-ease” (BJ Palmer’s 33 Principles of Chiropractic). In other words, God intelligently designed the body to express life and function with ease as long as outside negative forces do not interfere. For example, the outside force of stress and the body’s response to stress is to increase the stress hormone, cortisol, which in turn reduces the production of the good-feeling hormone, serotonin. When serotonin is low, melatonin (the sleep hormone) is also low.

Effects are depression, irritability, fatigue, sleeplessness, tension headaches, decreased sex

With the help of the Great Physician get Your 5 Essentials Prescription filled! For the Mind: positively manage stress by not being “anxious about anything, but in everything, by prayer and petition, with thanksgiving, present your requests to God. And the peace of God which transcends all understanding will guard your hearts and your minds in Christ Jesus” (Philippians 4:6-7.)

For the Nervous System: get your spine checked for misalignment and the loss of essential curves, and stay well-adjusted for a lifetime so you can increase transmission of healing and repair. For Quality Nutrition: eliminate sugars and bad grains, eat grassfed meat and wild-caught fish, add good fats, like olive oil and raw nuts, supplement with pure-sourced vitamins and minerals, especially Vitamin D and the correct ratio of Omega 6 to 3, and hydrate with pure water.

For Oxygen and Lean Muscle: get up and move with the MAXT3 12-minute exercise system to increase strength and youthful hormones. For Toxicity and Inflammation: avoid food preservatives, heavy metals such as mercury in vaccinations and flu shots, and refrain from taking prescription medications unless for short-term urgent conditions.

Seek not to become permanently dependent.

Now with your maximized and healthy body, you can fulfill the greatest command of all, to love the Lord your God with all your heart, soul, mind and strength. (Mark 12:30).

May God’s richest blessing in the gift of His Son be yours this Christmas.

Sunday worship 10:55 am • Taize worship on 2nd Sundays 7:30 pm 5206 Balcones Drive • 512.453.6603 hpbcaustin.org www.AustinFaithandFamily.com

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Community

December 2 0 1 1

December 1

FREE MOVIE NIGHT & HEALTHY SNACKS - 6:00p - Watch the Compelling Documentary: Cut, Poison, Burn: In the War on Cancer - Pure Chiropractic Wellness Office, 3107 S. IH35.

December 3

St. John Neumann Gift Shop and Friends Christmas Market will be from 9:00a – 5:00 p in Morris Hall located in the Pastoral Center. FMI please contact us at SJNMarket@gmail.com.

21st Annual St. Thomas More Christmas Bazaar – 10:00a – 7:00 p – Free – STM Catholic Church – 10205 FM 620 North.

Holiday Sing-Along & Downtown Stroll - 6:00p to 9:00p - a FREE familyfriendly event that begins with community caroling at the Capitol. When the caroling ends, the holiday tree in front of the Capitol is lit and participants stroll down Congress Avenue.

December 4

21st Annual St. Thomas More Christmas Bazaar – 9:00a – 3:00 p – Free – STM Catholic Church – 10205 FM 620 North.

Movies in the Park: It’s a Wonderful Life (1947) - 6:00p to 8:30p - Republic Square Park - Join us for our Christmas-themed movie night, with great food vendors and more!

Zilker Holiday Tree Lighting Ceremony - 5:30p - with holiday music and plenty of vendors and fun to be had by children of all ages!

Jingle Bell 5k benefiting MADD - 7:00a - The Domain Shopping Center - benefiting Mothers Against Drunk Driving - a family fun event. There will be a timed run, family fun run and a kids’ run. Each participant will receive a long sleeve t-shirt and jingle bells.

December 5

FREE MAXT3 CLASS, 6:00p -7:00p - Change your hormones in our unique 12-minute work-out! Pure Chiropractic Wellness Office, 3107 S. IH35 #787 - Round Rock.

December 6

FREE COMMUNITY WORKSHOP ON AUTISM: 6:15p – 7:15p - Pure Chiropractic Wellness Office3107 S. IH35 #787, Round Rock.

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December 7

December 11

Grief Share: an encouraging seminar for people facing the holidays after the death of a loved one. The free seminar will be at The Lakeway Church 7:00p – 8:30p. www. lakewaychurch.org.

The Austin Civic Orchestra presents, “Holiday Favorites with Austin Flair” at 3:00p in the Bates Recital Hall. As always, families are encouraged to attend this fun afternoon concert.

Sarah’s Hope — Fertility and Recurrent Miscarriage Support - at the Vitae Clinic in Austin, 1600 W. 38th St., Suite 115.

E-mail SarahsHopeAustin@gmail.com to sign up!

The Lakeway Church would like to invite you and your family to a Service of Remembrance and Hope 2:00p – 2:45p. www.lakewaychurch.org.

December 8

DINNER W/THE DOC @ SALTGRASS STEAKHOUSE, ROUND ROCK, 6:30p – 8:00p - Hosted by Pure Chiropractic Wellness & Dr. Rodriguez – RSVP 512-2469355.

December 9

Ebeneezer’s Journey - 7:00p to 10:00p - Jourdan-Bachman Pioneer Farms.

The classic 1843 story, ‘A Christmas Carol,’ comes alive at our historic sites. Reservations required.

December 10

Breakfast with Santa – 8:00a – 12:00noon - St. John Neumann Catholic Church Morris Hall, 5455 Bee Cave Rd. “A Wonderful Life” with The Biscuit Brothers - at First Evangelical Free Church of Austin - Gingerbread house decorating, ornament making and other activities for the entire family start at 3:00p and Biscuit Brothers will begin at 4:30p.

Luminations - 6:00p - Lady Bird Johnson Wildflower Center - We invite you to enjoy gardens lighted with more than 3,000 luminarias and 5,000 twinkle lights and to listen to music of the season. Admission is free with two canned food items for the Capital Area Food Bank.

Ebeneezer’s Journey - 7:00p to 10:00p - Jourdan-Bachman Pioneer Farms.

The classic 1843 story, ‘A Christmas Carol,’ comes alive at our historic sites. Reservations required.

Walk Through Bethlehem - 10:00a to 3:30p at First United Methodist Church Round Rock - Join us to experience what Bethlehem might have been like at the time of the birth of Jesus.

The Santa Cow is back! Come by the Georgetown Chick-fil-A 5:00p – 7:00 p Georgetown, TX..

“Oh, Come Let Us Adore Him” – 7:00p - Special guest speaker Ennie Hickman from ADORE - St. John Neumann Catholic Church, 5455 Bee Cave Rd. Behold The Lamb Of God Christmas Tour - 7:00p at Grace Covenant Church.

NOEL, An Original Holiday Musical - 2:00p - Austin Waldorf School - a heartwarming story about a little girl who has a big dream, NOEL is filled with a variety of hip hop, jazz, and ballet dances, as well as familiar holiday songs. Children will be singing and dancing in their seats!

December 12

FREE COMMUNITY WORKSHOP: ELIMINATING HOLIDAY STRESS & WEIGHT GAIN, 6:15p-7:15p - Pure Chiropractic Wellness Office -3107 S. IH35 #787, Round Rock.

December 13

ON-LINE WEBINAR: DEPRESSION, 6:00p-7:00p – www.Purechiropracticwellness.com.

December 15

Pediatric Center of Round Rock offers free newborn and prenatal classes every month for new or expectant parents.

Our next free prenatal class will be at 6:00p at the Pediatric Center of Round Rock located at 7700 Cat Hollow Dr.

December 16

Ebeneezer’s Journey - 7:00p to 10:00p - Jourdan-Bachman Pioneer Farms.

The classic 1843 story, ‘A Christmas Carol,’ comes alive at our historic sites. Reservations required.

Ebeneezer’s Journey - 7:00p to 10:00p - Jourdan-Bachman Pioneer Farms.

The classic 1843 story, ‘A Christmas Carol,’ comes alive at our historic sites. Reservations required.

The Santa Cow is back! Come by the Georgetown Chick-fil-A for a FREE picture with the Santa Cow. 5:00p – 7:00 p - Wolf Ranch Shopping Center in Georgetown, TX..

New Covenant Church’s Christmas Musical Drama - 4:00p - Jerry Fay Wilhelm Center in Bastrop. FREE EVENT - but guests are invited to bring nonperishable food item for Bastrop Food Pantry.

December 18

Christmas Pageant – 3:00p - St. John Neumann Catholic Church, 5455 Bee Cave Rd.

December 21

Trans-Siberian Orchestra Winter Tour 2011 - 4:00p at University of Texas Frank Erwin Center - As one of the top selling acts in the world, TSO is an annual tradition not to be missed.

December 22

The Nutcracker - 2:00p at Long Center for the Performing Arts.

December 27

Blanton Holiday Family Day - 7:00p - Blanton Museum of Art. Take an exciting journey through the exhibition El Anatsui: When I Last Wrote to You about Africa, enjoy family games in the galleries, and an art activity to ring in the New Year.

December 28

Mannheim Steamroller - 7:30p at Long Center for the Performing Arts.

December 31

Family New Year’s Eve Extravaganza - 3:00p - Hyatt Regency Lost Pines Resort And Spa - includes a Texas roadhouse barbecue dinner for up to four; access to our carnival-style jamboree; live entertainment and dancing at Firewheel Dancehall; a New Year’s toast and a delicious brunch on New Year’s Day.

December 17

The Artist’s Booth’s Opening Night Event. Celebrations of the Arts. Fun for the whole family. 6:00p – 9:00p. Visit www.

ArtistsBooth.webs.com for tickets and more information.

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Helpful Hints

The Perfect Christmas Gift

It is that time of year when we start shopping and looking for the ‘perfect’ Christmas gift. Sometimes we get it right and other times we end up selecting something that has little purpose or meaning. This month’s Helpful Hints focuses on practical gifts that not only bless the receiver but also local businesses and individuals.

At Christmas this year, how about giving services, rather than “things?”

Hair and beauty services: Everyone gets haircuts and many love manicures. The local stylist can always use the extra work.

Lawn care: The neighborhood high school student that is trying to earn money can be hired to rake leaves or mow.

Car maintenance: A single mom will benefit from an oil change or general car maintenance. Everyone loves a gift of a car wash, cleaning or detailing.

Stamps and greeting cards: We all have times when we need a card or stamp at the last minute. Stop by the local stationary/ card shop and purchase an assortment of cards, then provide stamps to go with them.

House cleaning: Many people are cleaning houses to earn income to meet their family’s needs. A gift of one or two house cleanings is a double blessing.

Family photographs: Family photographs and a personal decorated frame is a great gift, especially for family and friends that do not live in the area.

Date night: Give a couple a night out by providing babysitting and a gift card to a locally owned restaurant.

If you really want to give a gift that goes beyond service, try one of these options: Handmade crafts: Many churches

www.AustinFaithandFamily.com

and organizations hold craft fairs with unique and personal items. Select handmade gifts including soaps, candles, jewelry and toys. Many items can be personalized, letting the receiver know that you selected just for them.

The Christmas season is the one time of year that people everywhere turn their focus towards others. It is a great time to share the greatest gift of love, the Lord Jesus Christ.

Neighborhood Christmas party: Host a simple neighborhood Christmas party. During the time together look for opportunities to share about what Christmas means to you.

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Caroling party: Gather family and friends and go caroling. You can carol in the neighborhood and give out cookies.

Most Christmas carols proclaim the goodness of God. This year, go outside the normal shopping and gift giving by finding ways to bless others, the local economy, and exalt Jesus.

Al H. Jones, Ph.D. Head to Heart Restoration Ministries

www.headtoheart.org

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Rave Reviews

BOOKS

Quick Recommendations WordSpeak His Word, Your Voice

by Laura C. Bower With heartfelt honesty and transparency, Laura Bower shares the struggles and disappointments of her life as a Christian before she experienced communion with the power of the active and living Word. As God opened His mouth and spoke, creation unfolded, mountains were moved, people were healed, miracles were normal, and minds were transformed. Raised in a prosperous pastor’s home, Laura was the good little girl who always did the right thing. Her identity was yet to be established in Christ, and her life echoed an emptiness that she did not understand. In this book, Laura shares some tools she has learned along the way, which are powerful and yet full of practical insight and sensitivity. Each chapter has a simple yet powerful truth, which gives the reader a desire to activate that truth and join the journey. -Ginny Hurley

Nearing Home by Billy Graham Billy Graham is in his nineties now and he tells of his fading strength while standing strong in his latest book, Nearing Home. God is still working in him and through him and though the challenges are real, God is showing himself ever faithful. -Deborah Begley

MUSIC

Christmas music can be a mixed bag. I mean, how often do we need to hear “Joy to the World” with the exact same arrangement? This year, thankfully, there are two holiday releases by artists who love to push musical boundaries, even with Christmas music.

the SOURCE connecting you to what God is doing in Your City

-Children Services

Children at Heart 512.255.3668

www.childrenatheartministries.org 1301 N. Mays St. | Round Rock, TX

Camp Agape 830.385.8916

www.campagapetexas.org

Shape of Behavior Clinic 1.866.437.2165 www.shapeofbehavior.com

Hillside KDO/Preschool www.hillsideKDO.org 512.569.9019

The Settlement Home 512.836.2150 www.settlementhome.org

-Community Services

Round Rock Area Serving Center 512.244.2431 www.ServingCenter.org

Capital Area Food Bank of Texas www.AustinFoodBank.org Hunger is Unacceptable

TobyMac Christmas in Diverse City Bringing his normal funky groove to several classics, TobyMac shows us what Christmas is like in Diverse City. Toby shares the stage with several of his friends, including New Braunfels’ own Leigh Nash on “Christmas This Year,” easily the best song of the bunch.

-Mike Giles

David Crowder*Band Oh For Joy And lastly, before the David Crowder*Band brings us their final album next month, they offer up a fantastic yuletide EP called Oh For Joy. And joy is exactly what is infused in this collection of songs. The band has taken several Christmas classics and made them true worship songs, reminding us why we celebrate Christmas in the first place. And if all this has not convinced you to add this to your Christmas shopping list, just check out the awesome cover, where you can see the nutcracker doppelgangers of each bandmate.

-Mike Giles

Round Rock................................................512.310.1060 Pflugerville......................................................512.538.1152 West Austin................................................512.472.6339 South Austin...............................................512.445.5552 NW/Cedar Park/Leander...................512.250.5021 Eglin....................................................................512.661.8294 Georgetown..................................................512.868.9544 North Central Austin.............................512.453.2273 NE Austin...........................................................512.459.1122 SW Austin...........................................................512.364.6501

Meals on Wheels 512.476.6325

www.mealsonwheelsandmore.org

WMI Thermography

www.wellnessmedicalimaging.com

churches

-Non-Denominational

www 'LIKE' US on Facebook!

-Assembly of God

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GET INVOLVED with

DECEMBER EVENTS December 3

December 7

Fall Commencement 10 a.m. - RiverBend Centre Commencement Speaker

Dan Pruett of Meals on Wheels

[ christmas at concordia ]

December 5

A service of lessons and carols 7 p.m. - Concordia University Texas Building A - Auditorium Presented by the university choir and featuring joseph martin, pianist

7 p.m. - Concordia University Texas Building A - Auditorium

December 17

Concert benefitting Bastrop Wildfire Victims, in partnership with the First Baptist Church of Bastrop.

Men’s and Women’s home Basketball

Features Concordia String Orchestra and guitar Ensembles with special guests from the Austin Music Community

CTX vs. Mississippi College Concordia University Texas Field House - 1 p.m. and 3 p.m.

ADMISSION IS FREE; but cash and gift card donations are being accepted to help affected families

athletics.concordia.edu

JANUARY EVENTS January 12

January 2

Men’s and Women’s home Basketball

Spring term begins

CTX vs. Texas Lutheran Concordia University Texas Field House - 5:30 p.m. athletics.concordia.edu

Concordia University Texas | www.concordia.edu | 512-313-3000 11400 Concordia University Drive | Austin, TX 78726

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