May 2010

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MAY 2010

10

IDEAS to

get organized

MOMMA’S LESSON ON COVETING

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2 MAY 2010 ❘ Metro Christian Living

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contents MAY 2010

®

in this issue 10 The Way I See It Momma’s lesson on coveting

13 Growing Pains Grads

18 Cause & Effect Construction zone: women at work

22 Women of the Bible 26 Living My Call Communicating the heart of God to his people

30 This Is My Story The SilverFox link for peace of mind

32 Our Daily Bread

features

17

How do you keep the faith?

Special Feature

lifestyle

God’s garden

20

14 Homeworks

Cover Story

10 Ideas to get organized

Celebrating Women of strength

19 Healthy Living Clear the air

24 Legal Advice For caregivers, writing it down is essential

14

25 Food For Thought Celebrations

27 Let’s Talk It Over A Mother’s greatest mission

33

28 Welcome Home A place of refreshment and renewal

31 Money Talks Role models

33 Fresh Finds Magnificent moms & great grads

25 28

every issue 6 Letter from the Editor 9 From the Readers What’s the best advice your mom ever gave you?

What’s Coming Next Month Carey Casey, CEO of the National Center for Fathering

4 MAY 2010 ❘ Metro Christian Living

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34 Rave Reviews 35 Event Collage Stewpot & Heartworks

36 Summer Camp Directory 38 Quips & Quotes 38 Ad Directory

Volume 4, Number 12 Publisher: MHS Publications, Inc., Member, M.I.P.A. Editor: Marilyn Tinnin marilyn@metrochristianliving.com Associate Editor: Christi B. Steckel christi@metrochristianliving.com Administrative Assistant: Carol Rodgers carol@metrochristianliving.com Contributing Writers: Lydia Bolen, Rochelle Culp, Susan Deaver, Cathy Haynie, William B. Howell, Blake Larson, J. Randall Mascagni, Susan E. Richardson, Lee Smith, Julie Whitehead, Martin E. Willoughby Jr., Art Direction/Graphic Design: Sandra K. Goff Cover Photography: Stegall Imagery Sales: Marilyn Tinnin, Christi B. Steckel, Distribution Assistants: Laura Blackledge, Hal Hall, Kim Roberts, Rachel Schulte, Jerri Strickland and Bob Whatley

Metro Christian Living is committed to encouraging individuals in their daily lives by presenting the faith stories of others and by 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 Metro Christian Living do not necessarily represent those of the publisher. Every effort has been made by the Metro Christian Living staff to insure accuracy of the publication contents. However, we do not guarantee the accuracy of all information nor the absence of errors and omissions; hence, no responsibility can be or is assumed. All Rights Reserved. Copyright 2008 by Metro Christian Living, Inc. Scripture taken from the Holy Bible, New International Version, copyright 1973, 1978, 1984 by International Bible Society. Used by permission of International Bible Society.

Metro Christian Living is published monthly and is available at high traffic locations throughout the metropolitan area. Copies are also available by subscription, $29 for one year. Single issues available for $3 an issue. POSTMASTER: Send change of address to Metro Christian Living, 573 Highway 51 North, Suite C, Ridgeland, MS 39157, phone number 601-790-9076. M I P A Mississippi Independent Publishers' Alliance

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➺editor’s letter by MARILYN TINNIN

For Today is the Day the Lord has Made

“C As this is our “Women Edition”, I went back to drag out one of my all time favorite girl books. I guess I read it more than ten years ago, Strong Women, Soft Hearts by Paula Rinehart, but I checked and it is still in print. It is the kind of book I keep returning to again and again.

❝

It’s not that I mind dropping the earth suit façade…I just don’t want to leave the party yet!

❞

6 MAY 2010 ❘ Metro Christian Living

“Come now, you who say, “Today or tomorrow we will go to such and such a town and spend a year there, doing business and making money. Yet you do not even know what tomorrow will bring. What is your life? For you are a mist that appears for a little while and then vanishes. Instead you ought to say, “If the Lord wishes, we will live and do this or that. As it is, you boast in your arrogance; all such boasting is evil.” – James 4:13-16 I am sure the picture to the left is throwing you off and you are wondering why Marilyn (my mom) is lying in a hospital bed getting her picture taken. Well, she is not posing for the latest Belk pajama ad. Unfortunately, we had yet another tragedy strike. The first week of April I was packing for the beach, wondering if anyone made a form of liposuction I could drink, and how I was going to get a spray tan since I was going to go to dinner as soon as I got to the beach. (You can’t shower for 4 hours after those things and you smell awful!). In a matter of minutes, I received a phone call from a friend letting me know my mom was in the Emergency Room. “Bleeding on the brain” is about all we knew. My pale body, post thyroid surgery weight and thoughts of playing in the sand didn’t really mean a whole lot anymore Long story short, the month of April consisted of headaches, collapsing in a parking lot, a brain aneurysm, ICU, brain surgeries, naps in waiting room, strokes, meltdowns, tears, joys, uncertainty, family bonding and much more. In the midst of the above, I learned a very big lesson that I would like to share with you, my mom’s readers. I can only imagine what she will write about when she is feeling better, but here’s my biggie. Life is Fragile. People say that, but the words were cliché for me until I realized how close I was to losing my mother. I had my brush with death several years ago due to an infection, but I was so drugged up that I didn’t know what was going on. When you are sitting across from a physician when he is explaining the details of your mother’s illness, the critical circumstances, the risks of such a surgery, you begin to think of all the things you wish you had said or had not said. You question, “What if she never comes back to this hospital room?” I thought, “I should have paid more attention to her when she was in town two weeks ago, I should have done this, that, etc.” James tried to remind us of this frailty and brevity of life in James 4:13-16. Some of us have not learned the value of serving the Lord today and we may not have tomorrow to get our lives right with God. We need to use today to say the words we need to say to our loved ones. We need to treat each other the way we want to be treated, not assuming that we are granted time with these people tomorrow. Rather than assuming we will have more time for God and families later, we need to assume that all we have is today. Life is fragile and our time on this earth is short. Let us maximize our time so that we will not regret the life we lived. Y Betsy Smith

EDITOR’S NOTE: Dear Readers, April was quite a ride. Living in the future tense of the magazine world is harder than ever right now. I have contributed very little to this issue although I have been high maintenance for my staff, my family, and my friends. Nothing like a brush with death to re-align one’s perspective on what matters and what does not! I wish I could say I am forever cured of shallow worries over things like dog hair and puppy prints all over the house, gray roots that cry for color, and the constant challenge of too much to do and too little time. But I’m not. I will fall into the same old traps because as long as I wear skin, I will be fighting the tendency to forget that I am an eternal spiritual being having a temporary human experience rather than the other way around. It’s not that I mind dropping the earth suit façade…I just don’t want to leave the party yet! I am glad to be alive, glad for another fresh start in life—seems fitting that my recent health crisis occurred right here at Easter—a time of redemption and resurrection—kind of like the ultimate “do-over.” Many thanks to Christi Steckel and all of our contributing writers who have gone the extra mile this month. I am a very blessed lady with an incredible family and many incredible friends. Y

Marilyn H. Tinnin, Publisher and Editor marilyn@metrochristianliving.com

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Celebrating National Nurses Week MAY 6-12, 2010 Here’s what our patients’ families are saying about our nurses: (quotes taken from our family satisfaction surveys) “ My dad’s nurse was great.”

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8 MAY 2010 ❘ Metro Christian Living

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from our readers We asked MCL readers,

“What is the best advice your mother ever gave you?” “My mother has always placed a heavy emphasis on faith and education and cultivated both as a former professor turned stay at home mom. Getting a high school diploma let alone a college degree was not easy but both parents impressed on me the pricelessness on both. I finally got the message and am eternally grateful to both.”

UP, don’t go! The empty wagon makes the most noise. Pretty IS as pretty DOES. Jan Flowers

Julie Brown Colston

“Speak up for yourself, because no one else will. Win with honey; not vinegar.” Suzanna McMahan

Stephen McDill

“My mother always told me-”Cast your bread upon the waters and it will come back to you”. Truly the blessings go to the giver/servant!”

“One that now I’m of a more advanced age and can appreciate...’Remember you will always be judged by the company you keep!’” Sara Claire Hathorn Green

Barbie Scales

“It is always better to tell the truth!” “My Mamaw Ponder used to say “Haste makes waste” and it’s so true! And my Momma told me to choose a spouse carefully because you can’t change them!”

“Treat others the way you want to be treated! Also, “pick your battles”, let him win sometimes, it makes them feel good!”

Paula Barnett Prisock

“No white shoes after Labor Day!” Martha Marshall

Alynda Ponder

“Don’t slouch. Stand up straight.” “There were SO MANY...You lie down with the dogs, you get up with the fleas...If you can’t go

Vicki Downs Brocato

“Always be sure footed. It keeps you from falling on your face and making a fool of yourself.” Rhonda Walker Parker

“Not sure it was advice, but it was gift. Always giving me the choice, my mom had me in dance, baton and modeling classes and competitions starting at an early age. Because of these experiences, in front of judges and audiences, an admitted introvert learned to get out on the stage and hide my fear. The resulting experiences, successes and opportunities helped to make me who I am today, and all because my mom made the options available for me.” Stacy Holmes King

Q

reader’s respond Never end a sentence with a preposition and remember you were not put on this earth to please yourself.

“I just received your magazine with its new “face-lift”. I really like it. Your articles were great, too—from the practical to the encouraging. Good job.” Judi Brown

Marilyn Tinnin, MCL Editor & Publisher

Even with raising four girls (including my twin sister and I), my mom always found time to give. She taught me so much about serving others and loving unconditionally. She also taught me how to find a good sale! But the best advice she has given me is simple, Let go and Let God.

“I love the new look of the magazine! The glossy pages are great. Our ad really “pops” as they say on all the home decorating shows I watch! You’ve come a long way since the first magazine. You should be so proud of yourself! Way to go!” Janet Ellis

“Love it! At first I thought it was new Christian magazine in circulation!” Danielle Williams Ziegler

Christi B. Steckel, MCL Associate Editor

My mother, Betty Savelle, is not only an incredible mother, but also a very dear friend. Mom is patient, loving, gentle, hard working and has a gift for opening her home to friends and family. Through her example, she has taught me to be the mother and wife I should be. Carol Rodgers, MCL Administrative Assistant

“I really like it! Took this month’s copy to my niece who was visiting from Franklin, TN and another to my Mama in Laurel, MS...they love it too!” Rhonda Walker Parker

“It looks wonderful! It IS wonderful! I always enjoy it, and look forward to each new issue!” Jan Flowers

Q

metrochristianliving.com ❘ MAY 2010 9

âžşthe way i see it by MARTIN E. WILLOUGHBY, JR.

Momma’s Lesson on Coveting

“As for me and my house, we will serve the Lord.� Joshua 24:15

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M

y father was a pitcher in the New York Yankee minor league system in the 1960’s. He had a teammate named Johnny that was also a pitcher. Even though they were on the same team, Johnny would secretly root for the other pitchers to lose. He didn’t want them to show him up. He wanted to be the star. If my Dad or the other pitchers had a good game, he was very insincere in his praise. As we approach Mother’s Day, I have been reflecting on some of pearls of wisdom that my mother shared with me as a child. I distinctly remember her teaching me about Johnny, and how I should be happy for others in their success. I think I was probably a sore loser so I must have needed a lot of remedial instruction on this point. What she was really teaching me about was the sin of coveting. Whether you call it envy, greed, or coveting, we all fall into this trap from time to time. I believe that God knew that we would struggle with this and so HE included it in the 10 Commandments (Exodus 20:17). In today’s day we often call this “keeping up with Joneses.� This desire to fit in and define ourselves on the social hierarchy may peak somewhere in the teen years, but it certainly does not go away. How do we really feel when our neighbors move to a much bigger house? What are our thoughts when our friends buy a fancy new car? Are we really happy for our co-workers when they get the big promotion? How about when the other kid is the star of the baseball team while our child rides the bench? What about when our friends all retire, but we have to keep working as hard as ever?

I am not saying being a competitive person is a bad thing. However, the subtle pressure to have more stuff and define ourselves by our success can be a major stumbling block in our faith journey. In bullfighting, the matador uses the red cape to distract the bull while he slowly kills him. Similarly, I think Satan uses our coveting to distract us from what really matters. We get consumed in our consumption and then lose the eternal perspective. The good news is that in Christ we have hope. Jesus told the disciples in John 6:27 “Do not work for the food which perishes, but for the food which endures to eternal life, which the Son of Man will give to you, for on Him the Father, God, has set His seal.� We have an eternal chapter to our lives. We are not finite creatures even though we live a lot like we are. We have the opportunity to be nourished with the food of eternal life. While we can sometimes control our outward actions, it is our inner thought life that is so challenging on this issue. It is only when we fix our eyes on our true treasure and have a sense of our eternal destination does the temptation of coveting ease its grip. Hopefully, we can all avoid Satan’s manipulation on this issue and be content with who we are in Christ and genuinely happy for others in their journey in life. Otherwise, somebody’s momma may be teaching him or her about how to avoid people like us one day. Y Martin E. Willoughby Jr. is an attorney/business consultant with Willoughby Law Group, PLLC located in Ridgeland. He and his wife Nicki have two children, Ally and Trey, and live in Madison.

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Protecting futures. One generation at a time. >QI>KB>G<> HI>G MH >O>KRHG> DBG=>K<:FIL :K> ?HK IK>&D MH *LM @K:=>KL :=O>GMNK> <:FIL :K> ?HK +G= MH .MA @K:=>KL :<:=>FB<% >GKB<AF>GM% :G= LIHKML <:FIL ?HK *LM MAKHN@A *+MA @K:=>KL MA> K>:=BG@ <EBGB< BL ?HK *LM MAKHN@A -MA @K:=>KL PBMA =RLE>QB: HK HMA>K K>:=BG@&K>E:M>= =>?B<B>G<B>L

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growing pains

T

by BAXTER HOGUE

Guidance for the GRADUATE

TAKE A REALITY CHECK. In recent years roughly 50% of entering college freshman will not be at the school they are entering as a freshman by their junior year. Many will not be in school anywhere come junior year and will most likely be in adult programs ten or fifteen years down the road. There are many reasons for this current trend and a Google search will unearth numerous studies citing a plethora of reasonable explanations; however, today I would like to focus on one: choices. The person you are right now reading this article is the sum total of your family history, your personal history, your genetic makeup, your environment, your values, beliefs, hopes, dreams and your unfolding God-given purpose. Much of your life to this point has been chosen for you. Of course it was you that chose to do or not to do what was put before you, but nevertheless in many ways you did not set the table. The great news for you is the “chosen for you” time is coming to an end and you are entering into the time of “your own choosing”. Your departure to college and entrance into young adulthood means you will now be making

most of your choices.You will be crafting your own future. And yes, ultimately you will be responsible for the intended and unintended consequences of those choices. I encourage you to not underestimate the power of this responsibility. Your power to choose is your greatest ability. And the influence you have over the choices today will impact what choices you have five years from now. As I write this I get the feeling this may sound overwhelming or perhaps even a little threatening. That is not my intention. I simply want to highlight and emphasize the importance of your ability to choose and to offer a word of encouragement. You are not alone. That seen and unseen presence that has guided you to where you are today will be there tomorrow. You absolutely do not have to figure things out by yourself. I implore you to seek out guides. Find mentors. Search out people that you admire. I believe these are the people God uses to guide and assist us in figuring out how to navigate the ship of our lives. If you find yourself sitting in a room with a group of friends that you do not look up to or admire then you are in

the wrong room. Bind yourself to values and beliefs that challenge you to be a better person. Don’t escape or run from hard choices. If you need help, find it. If you feel lost tell someone that’s not. Call home. And most importantly trust God to direct your paths (commit to memory Proverbs 3:5-6). Now what happens if you make some bad choices and your path becomes uncertain? For parents it gets pretty scary here because there is not a clear answer. My best advice would be to find someone who has walked that path and listen. Find that mentor, that guide, that person who speaks to you and let God go to work. Listen closely. There is truly an art to growing up. It takes tremendous grace, faith and guidance. Y Baxter Hogue and his wife, Courtney, have two children and live in Clinton. Baxter is the Clinical Director of Imagine Behavioral Health, an outpatient counseling facility for adolescents, young adults and adults located on Lakeland in The Quarter. Contact him at baxterh@imagineiop.com

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601-978-2272 www.ChristCovenantSchool.net A ministry of Pear Orchard Presbyterian Church metrochristianliving.com ❘ MAY 2010 13

➺homeworks by CATHY HAYNIE

10

to IDEAS GET ORGANIZED

Use items you already own to help you get organized! Shop in your home first. This is a good philosophy to embrace these days. It works to stretch your grocery dollars or clothing allowance. Need something to wear for Friday night? Shop in your own closet first. Can’t decide what to fix for dinner? You could get more than one more day’s worth of meals out of that pantry. Feeling unorganized? Look around your home for products that sort and store things. Everything from envelopes to suitcases to baskets and bowls offer you storage. Here are 10 products to help you organize areas in your home or work. Most of these, you will have on hand and others, well, maybe you should. Aunt Bea’s pretty tea cups might be just what you need to sort your office supplies or that big basket on top of your refrigerator? Perfect for gift wrap supplies!

❋ Baskets

offer organization for cleaning supplies, gift wrap items, incoming mail, magazines and reading material, office supplies, and of course, a picnic.

❋ Trays

neatly sort makeup, jewelry, toiletries, and those items by the door. For a nice decorating look, place a large plastic tray on the floor next to the door to even hold boots or shoes.

❋ Boxes of all types can help you organize photos, DVD’s, first aid supplies, and more.

❋ Clear vinyl shoe bags

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offer storage you can sort and see for winter wear, craft supplies, stockings and scarves, toys, or a teen’s toiletry items.

❋ Tea Cups, jars, or small bowls

all offer solutions to sort common items, whether paper clips, colored pencils, markers, rubber bands, or cooking utensils.

❋ Label Makers

help everyone know what’s what and give a professional look to your storage.

❋ Framed bulletin boards will dress up your everyday lists and reminders. Find a large, old frame that you like and purchase cork board for a great organizing station.

❋ Post-it products are simple organizing tools. Make a note on a post it note for a date to add to your electronic calendar or an item for your to do list, or write a reminder and post it on the mirror for tomorrow’s doctor appointment. Post-it also makes plastic removable tabs to label a file or to be able to see just what all is in that stack of white papers on your counter.

❋ Tote Bags

help you grab and go with exercise gear, swimming pool items, quiet time or Bible Study materials, sports gear, or home to work items. Install a row of coat hooks for easy organizing.

❋ Lazy Susan or a plastic spinning tray is a great way to store more than spices. Stack and spin trays help you easily find medicines, toiletries, and craft supplies. Y

REALTOR 6265 Pear Orchard Road, Jackson, MS 39211

Business: 601-956-2020 Cell: 601-946-1410 • Fax: 601-956-2621 14 MAY 2010 ❘ Metro Christian Living

Cathy Haynie and her husband Jack have three children and live in Madison. Cathy is the Headmaster of Christ Covenant School in Ridgeland. She occasionally speaks to groups on Honoring God in the Home, Managing the Busy Life, and Balancing Work and Home. Contact her at chaynie@christcovenantschool.net.

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First Presbyterian Day School 1390 North State Street | Jackson, MS 39202 601.355.1731 | www.fpds.org

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special feature by CHRISTI B. STECKEL

God’s garden

HGHGHG A community garden is growing relationships in Christ.

“I planted, you watered, but God was causing the growth. So then neither the one who plants nor the one who waters is anything, but God who causes the growth. Now he who plants and he who waters are one; but each will receive his own reward according to his own labor.” – 1 Corinthians 3:6-8 After spending 27 years living, sharing, and growing in Vicksburg, high school sweethearts Mike and Toby Burnett packed up their bags and moved east. Mike, who worked for Ergon for 30 years, spent the last ten years commuting to the offices on Lakeland, but after too many sweet teas to stay awake, Toby realized it was time to make a move. It was difficult to leave behind their hometown church and their deep-rooted friendships, but they were determined to follow down the path the Lord had laid before them. Now when the Burnetts commit to something, they go all the way or as Mike describes he “takes a sledge hammer to crack a walnut”. They wanted to find a way to get involved right away and find opportunities to serve in their church In May of 2008, their small group decided to take the opportunity to serve at the Perkins Center. Their needs called for sheet rock and cleanup - the Burnetts were on it. After building their home in Vicksburg, they came with experience and excitement for change. However, moments after the group got started Mike disappeared. This master Gardener had found his way behind the Antioch house where he envisioned a garden for the community. With a green thumb from his mother and an education from the master gardening program offered through the Department of Agriculture county extension office, Mike brought hours, days, and years of experience. He took his sledge hammer approach and introduced himself to Wayne Perkins, son of Dr. John Perkins. He took him aside and told him of an idea he had seen done in Tanzania through an agricultural missionary, Dennis McCall. Mike would help start a garden that the Perkins community members could work, call their own and directly benefit from. Wayne liked the idea and Mike got to work. They would call it God’s Garden. Three months later the small group was back to the Perkins Center building two raised bed gardens full of broccoli, collards, squash and cabbage. For the Burnetts this was the opportunity they were looking for, “The primary reason it worked was they were doing everything with a Christian influence. It seemed like a prime scenario and community to go into and teach them not only how to grow their own food, but utilize it,” shares Mike. The small seed of service began to grow into much more. A team of

mothers from the center began tending the gardens and taking full responsibility. Mike and a few others continued to stop by and oversee the progression. One day they had twenty-one children from the after-school program at the Perkins Center come out to help and Mike, the Master Gardner had to relinquish control and chuckle at the “variety garden” the kids were planting. But in those moments it became clear, this was not about the food, it was about the fellowship. “It’s an ongoing process in teaching them something that is very applicable to everyday living, but the whole purpose is to develop relationships, share Christ with them and see Christ in action; to see us having interest in them and in their community.” Like that variety garden, communities began to grow together. During the Shine ‘09 event, a service day in Jackson for area churches, Dr. John Perkins observed all that was going on and pulled Mike aside, “He started walking away from everyone and I thought “oh no, what’s gone wrong?” When we got down to the garden he said I just want to tell you, I think this is great and the most important thing is not the garden, but the relationships you’re developing with us. To me, that’s the purpose.” Since then God’s Garden continues to grow in a way that brings glory to God. Willie Rivers, who owns Rivers Nursery, supplied the plants for that spring garden and he continues to visit frequently, tending to the garden and cultivating relationships. “It’s been nice to see church members take ownership as well as the Perkins Center community take ownership in it. That to me becomes the most successful thing, regardless how much food it produces, we now have folks from two different communities sharing with one another and developing relationships,” Mike shares. In the last year, the Perkin’s Center has opened God’s Garden to the entire neighborhood community and the gardens continue to multiply with eight raised beds and an herb garden in the works. Volunteers are always needed to assist more people in starting a garden that helps the community to reduce their grocery bills, increase the use of vegetables in their diets and grow relationships in Christ. As Mike reflects, “If we can get enough people interested in participating, it [God’s Garden] could grow as big as God allows it to grow and I think that could be huge, if we submit and just be there to be His workers.” It is evident through God’s Garden that the common need of food has brought together communities to share in the eternal need of Jesus Christ. If you would like to get involved with God’s Garden contact Mike Burnett at (601) 992-5353 or mdburnett@comcast.net. To learn more about the Perkins Center visit www.jmpf.org or call (601) 354-1563. Y

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metrochristianliving.com ❘ MAY 2010 17

➺cause & effect

z Y

by JULIE STRAW

CONSTRUCTION ZONE

Women at Work

T

The sound of power saws and hammers pounding nails rang out from Winter Street in Jackson’s Battlefield Park neighborhood. Those who approached to hear what all the noise was about would probably have expected to see tough men handling the tools. Instead it was a group of women sporting pony tails and tool belts. With sawdust in their hair and sweat on their brows, together they are building a house. “These 30 or so women volunteers are putting in the effort to volunteer and it’s great. Women work just as hard as men on the site,” said Habitat for Humanity/ Metro Jackson (HFH/MJ) Development Director Susan Wolfe. For the 13th year female volunteers will raise walls for the annual HFH/MJ Women Build. For four weekends ladies of all ages and walks of life will meet to complete the home in time for Mother’s Day. The homeowner is also a woman and single mother of four. “It is like love and support. I could not ask for anything else. It shows our empowerment, that we can do it,” smiled Katrisa Coleman. Coleman and her children, seventeen-year-old Dion, sixteen-year-old Candace, seven-year-old Kyia and five- year-old Marques, are overcrowded in a three bedroom apartment in west Jackson. She dreamed about homeownership, but thought it was out of reach until she found Habitat for Humanity.

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Since its inception in 1986, HFH/MJ has housed 464 families. The Christian organization builds and sells affordable houses at no interest to low income families. The goal is to eliminate poverty housing, but the Habitat homes have also transformed neighborhoods in Jackson’s inner city. “It doesn’t matter where you stay in the state of Mississippi. It is everyone’s capital so everyone should be concerned about what goes on here. We’re excited about it, but the whole city and state should be excited,” said Kathy Johnson, Jackson Mayor Harvey Johnson’s wife. “We want everyone to have safe, affordable, decent housing here in the city of Jackson and we’re doing it one house at a time.” The entire Coleman family is handson with the project, helping log the 250 hours of “sweat equity” needed to build their five-bedroom home. Coleman was able to customize details of the house from the color, eggplant, to the front porch, welcoming white columns. “This is a blessing. Right now we’re in a small apartment and the kids share rooms. Soon they can have a room of their own,” shared Coleman. To mark the first build day, tools were set down and women paused to say a blessing over the site. Sidney Harper, Congressman Gregg Harper’s wife, read from Galatians 6:9-10, “Let us not become weary in doing good, for at the proper time we will reap a harvest if we do not give up. Therefore, as we have opportunity, let us do good to all people, especially to those who belong to the family of believers.” “I just think this is a wonderful Christian organization. Habitat for Humanity does so much for worthy families like Ms. Coleman,” said Harper. On May 7th, the construction noise will stop again and the home will be dedicated, as the Coleman family begins their new life in their new home. Y Julie Straw has been working as a reporter at WLBT in Jackson for nearly four years. You can also catch her anchoring Sunday nights on Channel 3.

c

CLEAR THE AIR

healthy living by C. ROCHELLE CULP

STOP SMOKING and start living a healthy life for you and your family.

F

For many kids, Mother’s Day means taking mom out to breakfast, giving her a gift, or just saying thanks. On this special day for moms, we should also remember that a terrific way to celebrate Mother’s Day might be to pledge to give moms who currently smoke the kind of loving support, encouragement and information that could help them to be tobacco-free before Mother’s Day next year. In the United States, more than 20 million adult women currently smoke, putting them at risk for heart attacks, strokes, lung cancer, emphysema and other life-threatening illnesses. Lung cancer is a leading cancer killer among women, and smoking is attributable for 90% of these deaths. Smoking also accounts for one of every five deaths from heart disease, the overall leading cause of death among women. When women quit smoking, they improve their own health as well as the health of the people around them. Mothers who give up smoking improve the likelihood that their children will grow-up to be tobacco-free and lead much longer and much healthier lives. Moms who smoke can celebrate Mother’s Day by quitting, and all moms, whether or not they smoke, can celebrate Mother’s Day by taking a number of effective actions to protect their kids from becoming another one of the tobacco industry’s addicted customers and victims. Even if they smoke, what moms say, how they act, and the values they communicate through their words and deeds have an enormous influence on whether or not their kids smoke. And all moms, smokers and nonsmokers alike, can also do a lot to protect their kids from secondhand smoke.

How can you protect your child from secondhand smoke? c If you smoke, quit smoking—or at least keep trying. Talk to your doctor or call the Mississippi Tobacco Quitline 1-800-QUIT-NOW (1-800-7848669).

c Don’t let anyone smoke in your home. Make sure anyone who smokes only does so outside, away from open doors and windows. If you smoke, wear a “smoking shirt,” and remove it before coming into contact with your child, especially infants—and never smoke while holding, feeding, or bathing your child. And remember, smoking residues in a home (or car) can cause harm even when smoking is no longer taking place.

c Never smoke in the car, especially when your child is a passenger. c Avoid leaving your child with someone who smokes or in smoky environments. Ask about smoking and smoke-free rules and practices when evaluating daycare centers or babysitters, or even when leaving your kids at other people’s homes. And try to make sure that your child does not take a job in a restaurant or other location that allows smoking.

c Support strong federal, state, and local smoke-free laws. c Participate in World No Tobacco Day on May 31, 2010. Visit www.who.int/tobacco for additional information.

An estimated 22 million children aged 3-11 years and 18 million youth aged 12-19 years are exposed to secondhand smoke every year. Secondhand smoke contains more than 250 chemicals known to be toxic or carcinogenic (cancer-causing). Babies exposed to secondhand smoke face a higher risk of sudden infant death syndrome (SIDS) and a range of other serious health and developmental problems, and exposed older children have increased rates of lower respiratory infections, ear infections, and asthma. Exposure to cigarette smoke during childhood may lead to the development of cancer

during adulthood. It can also prolong and worsen numerous medical conditions, including pneumonia, bronchitis, croup, laryngitis, bronchiolitis, asthma, flu, ear infections, colds, sinus infections, sore throats, and eye irritation, leading to increased school absenteeism, emergency room visits, and hospitalizations. Y For additional Information contact C. Rochelle Culp, Program Director Mississippi Tobacco-Free Coalition of Madison, Yazoo and Holmes Counties (601) 420-2414 rochelle.culp@healthymiss.org. Information provided by Campaign for Tobacco-Free Kids.

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June 12 | Saturday | 9 a.m. Custom cars, street rods, muscle cars, classic motorcycles, and trucks.

Downtown Concerts Two outdoor concerts in the heart of downtown. August 6 | Friday | 6 p.m.

Sept. 18 | Saturday | 6 p.m.

The evening of Bikes, Blues & Bayous

The evening of 300 Oaks Road Race

www.MainStreetGreenwood.com metrochristianliving.com ❘ MAY 2010 19

➺cover story

by CHRISTI B. STECKEL and MARILYN H. TINNIN

“S

trong Women come in all ages, races, and walks of life. They may not be well known

and no two may be alike, but all Strong Women have one thing in common: simply observing their lives inspires us to be better people…” Ginger Cocke, Director of Corporate Communications MS Baptist Health Systems. 2010 marks the tenth anniversary for Baptist Health Systems Celebration of Strong Women. Over the last decade 45 women have been selected from hundreds of nominations from friends and family who have been touched by ordinary women who live extra-ordinary lives. Few strong women ever see themselves that way. There are five categories of winners, each personifying a trait that most of us recognize around us every day in a friend or a co-worker. DEFENDER: One who Women seem to be, by nature, champions the cause of a nurturers. Each category has its disadvantaged person or own specific nurture component. group. Ginger, who has coordinated the program for Baptist with help LEADER: One who from the Godwin Group and inspires others to take action LoveCom notes that each year is for a common good. different. Although the stories vary, the themes don’t. MENTOR: One who “In every category something invests herself in helping happened in that woman’s life another as a counselor, role that made them want to reach model, helper or encourager. out to others. The amazing thing is that the winners selected are PERSEVERANCE: living their mission in life and One who has overcome pernone of them are striving for sonal adversity. recognition or ever see themselves as touching so many other PROMISE: A young women.” woman aged 14-18 who demonstrates a commitment to high personal standards.

20 MAY 2010 ❘ Metro Christian Living

{perseverance

Rachel Blackledge

}

2009 Recipient of Strong Woman Award for Perseverance

“For Rachel, May 22, 2005, began as a sunny day full of promise. A senior at Madison Central, she was looking forward to graduating with honors before studying graphic design at Samford University. That afternoon, everything changed in an instant. She and three friends were involved in a water-skiing accident. Rachel’s right leg was severed at the knee and her friend Lanie was killed. Rachel spent three weeks in the hospital, followed by months of tough physical therapy, a series of awkward prosthetics, and grief for her friend. As she healed, she began to see all she’d been through not just as a tragedy, but an opportunity. ‘After awhile,’ she said, ‘you begin looking for the doors God is opening.” – Marlo Kilpatrick

Of all the things you want to show up as your unique character, what is the single most significant? I would have to say joy. And I don’t mean for this to be synonymous with happiness. I have always thought that happiness is a fleeting emotion...but JOY is a unique characteristic in that regardless of what life is throwing at you; there is an underlying peace that lets you know it’s all going to work out What is your favorite scripture and why it is meaningful to you? I go through phases of favorite scriptures because I relate to different ones at different stages in my life. Right now, one of my favorites is John 16:33 “I have told you these things, so that in me you may have peace. In this world you will have trouble. But take heart! I have overcome the world.”

Tell me how your adversity taught you a new meaning of perseverance? Prior to losing my leg, I don’t think I had ever really been forced to truly persevere in anything other than long lines at TJMAX. Through my particular adversity, however, I was forced to rely on God’s strength within me to persevere physically, mentally, and emotionally, knowing that He had ultimately prepared me and gone before me in this. I would never mean that to sound cliché’, but for anyone that has ever been to a place of complete desperation, you know that the strength to keep going isn’t anything you can muster up by yourself! How do you hope your work in physical therapy will serve as a mission field to others battling with physical setbacks? I am really excited about being able to use physical therapy as an outlet to encourage other people who are struggling with their own physical setbacks. I think it’s going to be really cool to wake up every day and go to a job where I can honestly relate, at least to some degree, to what the individuals around me are struggling with. I am hoping that I will have the opportunity to work with other amputees in some form or fashion, and to assure them that if I can do it, then there’s no doubt in my mind that they can as well!

{

defender

Pam Dollar

}

2008 Recipient of Strong Woman Award for Defender

“Pam Dollar is a defender of the voiceless. Being the mother of a child with autism, she has taken on the heartfelt duty of advocating for not only other children with autism, but also all disabilities. Pam currently serves as Director of the MSPTI (Mississippi Parent Training and Information Center). She advocates for improved services and programs for people with disabilities on a state and national level and has for nearly two decades. – Leah A. Price

What does “Strong woman” mean to you? To me it means hanging in there when “the waters are rough”, persevering through trials and coming out on the other side able to weather the next storm with even more resilience. It also means not being afraid to ask for help and support from others when you need it. We are all interdependent and need each other at times and that’s OK. Having the support of others is a blessing. Did you have a role model or did you find yourself seeing a need and just giving yourself to it? I’ve had a wonderful role model in a dear friend, Mandy Rogers. Mandy has two children with disabilities and I thank God every day that He placed me in her path 15 years ago when our children attended Magnolia Speech School together. She still serves as my “go to” person on special education issues, health issues with my son (she’s a nurse) and has always been there for me even when I just need a shoulder to cry on.

God, to them who are the called according to his purpose.” Romans 8:28 (KJV) Having a son with autism has taught me that even though I may not be able to see it “in the moment”, God has a plan, much bigger than my own, and everything that happens in my life is to achieve his purpose for me. Through my son’s disability I’ve been able to achieve things that would not have been possible without the experience of parenting a child with a disability. It is truly the greatest gift I’ve ever been given. God has taught me tolerance, acceptance and compassion at levels that simply weren’t present in my life before. Through this experience he has shaped and molded me into a vessel which can be used to help others and minister to them…to make lasting changes in the lives of people with disabilities and in the way the world sees and responds to them.

What is the single most significant trait you would like to be in your character? Faithful. The quality of being faithful is defined as loyal, full of faith or trust; firmly and resolutely sticking with a person, group, cause, belief, or idea, without waver. I want to be faithful to the mission God has for my life. Tell us a little about your own faith story. I was raised going to church from the time I was born. I have wonderful parents who are both people of great faith. They made sure I had a strong foundation in God by taking me to church and living examples in their daily lives. I gave my heart to Jesus at a very young age and was always active in my church. However, I didn’t really learn what true faith was until my son was diagnosed with autism. How does God have a role in creating a “strong woman?” He gives us the gift of life experiences which afford us opportunities to grow and develop character traits which help us evolve into the people he needs us to be to achieve his purpose for our lives.

{mentor

Georgina Felder

}

2009 Recipient of Strong Woman Award for Mentor

“I met Georgina Felder in 2001 when I began dating her son. The way he spoke of her made her sound like some type of superhero, and I said to myself, ‘This is a woman I’ve got to meet!’ Now she is a wonderful mother-in-law, and counselor all wrapped into one. A pastor’s wife, devoted mother and grandmother and professional executive assistant, she still finds time to counsel single mothers, young girls who may have lost their way, and family members. She started a marriage ministry in our church that has been the guiding light for many of our young couples. She is not the type of person to teach one thing and practice another. I truly believe her duty as a role model is one of the reasons my own marriage has been such a success.” – Celeste Fleming-Felder

What is your favorite Bible verse and why? “And we know that all things work together for good to them that love

metrochristianliving.com ❘ MAY 2010 21

What comes to your mind when you think “strong woman?” A woman that is full of purpose, virtuous as stated in the Bible, (Proverbs 31:10), passionate, determined, confident and patient. Who were your role models? My grandmother, being the matriarch of the family with her patience, faith in God and ability to see the deeper meaning in life; my mother, for her great compassion and charitable heart; my eldest sister, for her confidence and determination; and my church mothers, for their faithfulness and guidance. Each one of these women has displayed some portion of strength in their character. What is your favorite Bible verse and why is it meaningful to you? Philippians 4:13 – This verse has no limits. It encourages you that through Christ, the impossible can be made possible. What is the single most important character trait you would like to be remembered for? A legacy of helping others is what I would like to be remembered for. To sum it up in one word- Support, which encompasses a myriad of ways that one can help others. A little about your faith story and how you began to do the things that made others think of you as a “strong” woman? The strength of my life comes from being a Pastor’s wife. His ministry became my ministry—which involves helping others. The more that I started dealing with people, the more challenging it became. There are a lot of people in the world who encounter all types of situations in life that require the compassion and help from someone else. Together, my husband and I began holding marriage and family counseling seminars and workshops. Then we discovered we had more single parents than married ones, so we started a singles ministry. It was not for just dating or finding the right mate, but it was more geared to how to cope with real life and its real situations. Then we discovered an even greater need that involved helping our young people. This is where the mentor ministry became more prevalent. For me it was not about age, gender, etc, just people. So I became engaged in meeting the need, no matter what the demand. What would you want other women to know about strength? It is about the power to endure. Strength requires endurance, virtue, patience, and will power. I encourage women to hang in there, be strong, even when it seems as if you cannot make it. Your faith will take you through.

Women of the Bible ● MIRIAM Miriam, meaning “lady” was the sister of Moses during the time of Ramses II. As the Hebrew population grew, the Pharaoh sent an order to the midwives to kill all male babies born by a Hebrew woman. Through Miriam’s courage and ingenuity she managed to save her brother from certain death and, through him, send the Exodus into motion. Exodus 2:1-10

● RACHEL Rachel was the bride of Jacob, son of Isaac and Rebekah. Their great love story describes the foundation of the twelve tribes of Israel. After asking and waiting for God’s perfect

22 MAY 2010 ❘ Metro Christian Living

{

promise

Amber Jackson

2008 Recipient of Strong Woman Award for Promise

}

“Amber has devoted her high school years to volunteering in the community and in helping others. She has been a Junior Volunteer at Rankin Medical Center for three years, participates in the Susan G. Komen Foundation’s “Race for a Cure,” spearheads a large amount of community service for Pearl High School—including collecting donations for Pearl’s Battered Women and Children’s Shelter and Blair E. Batson—and much more. She has spent many Saturdays volunteering at the homeless shelter and at campus and community clean-up campaigns. She tirelessly gives of herself, maintains good grades and attendance in school, and works after school and summers. Making a difference is what is important to Amber. She absolutely believes that one person at a time can make a difference.” – Melissa B. Jackson

What is your favorite Bible verse and why? My favorite Bible verse is Matthew 7:16, which states “Therefore, whatever you want men to do to you, do also to them, for this is the Law and the Prophets.” In other words, do unto others as you would have them do unto you. I believe that if everyone would follow this statement then the world would be a much kinder place. Of all the things you want to define your character, what is the single most important and why? I would like for my character to be defined by my service to the community and by helping others. I would like for people to see and lead by example. What part does God play in your ambitions as a Strong Woman? God has played all the parts in my ambitions as a Strong Woman. He placed me on this earth with a mission in mind. He gave me two wonderful parents who have encouraged me to help others and work hard to get somewhere in life and to continue to help the people in my community. He has provided me with encouragement and has given me the ambition to do everything that I set my mind to. My real passion is helping to provide food

by CAROL RODGERS

timing she bore Jacob two sons—Joseph and Benjamin. Genesis 29:1-30

● ELIZABETH Elizabeth is Eli-sheba meaning “God’s promise”. She was a woman of blameless reputation, kinswoman of Mary of Nazareth, and mother to John the Baptist. Elizabeth remained barren until late in life testifying to the fact that her impending pregnancy was a miracle from God. Luke 1:5-25

● DEBORAH Deborah was the fourth and only female judge of Israel. She possessed special abilities as a mediator, advisor, and counselor and when

called to lead was able to plan, direct, and delegate. Her story reminds us that God chooses leaders by his standards, not ours. Judges 4, 5

● MARY OF NAZARETH Mary, mother of Jesus, was a young virgin girl in her teens when she was visited by the angel Gabriel to be told that she would bring into this world our Savior, the Lord Jesus Christ. Mary’s heart was one of submission, humility, introspection, and obedience. Christ’s birth was the fulfillment of God’s promise to Abraham to be merciful to God’s people forever! Luke 1:26-56

to people who would otherwise be without. The amazing management at Kroger has helped me to hold many canned food drives for both the homeless and for some of the unfortunate people in the community. I also enjoy raising money for St. Jude and helping out in any way that I can.

{leadership

Dot Ward

}

2003 Recipient of Strong Woman Award for Leadership

“She is persistent and dedicated to the causes that she holds dear. She mentors youth, defends the rights and liberties we have as Americans through her editorial writing in the local newspapers; and builds hope for the future by being a role model to others. She is a member of the NSDAR, Past President of the Salvation Army Women’s Auxiliary, Jackson Ballet Guild, Hinds County Lawyers’ Wives, and Jackson Preparatory School PTA. She is a Charter Member and former board member of the Metropolitan Crime Commission and a Board Member of Keep Mississippi Beautiful and a Volunteer Reader on the Radio Reading Service. It is the “little things� that my mom does in her day-to-day living that truly reflect her leadership. She bakes cakes and pies for those who are ill, takes in the stray dog on the side of the highway and adopts it as a family pet. She is a leader in all of her endeavors and has touched the hearts of so many Mississippians through her unselfish acts of kindness. – Erwin C. Ward, Jr.

What comes to your mind when you think “Strong woman? Isaiah 40:31 “But they that wait upon the Lord shall renew their strength; they shall mount up with wings as eagles; they shall run, and not be weary; and they shall walk, and not faint.â€? No one lives a life that is spared from disappointment, sorrow, pain, or loss. Each of us has some adversity to face, but a strong woman “rises up with wings as eaglesâ€? and with an unshakable faith in God, perseveres to meet the challenges of life whatever they may be. Our strength is renewed if we wait upon the Lord. What is your favorite Bible verse and why? “Trust in the Lord with all your heart and lean not on your own understanding; in all thy ways acknowledge him, and he will direct your paths.â€? Prov. 3:5-6 What is the single most important character trait you would like to be remembered for? I can’t think of a single most desirable trait of my character‌but I am dependable. I’m also true to my word and usually will go the extra mile.

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A little about your faith story and how you began to do the things that made others think of you as a “strongâ€? woman? I have a number of young friends‌just starting families or juggling family responsibilities with a career. Having traveled the road before them, I can offer encouragement and counsel. How do you see your future as a Godly and a strong woman? I consider myself blessed. I’ve never doubted for a minute that I was not a child of God’s and while I’ve not always lived up to the example set by his Son, I’ve tried. But the best part of “tryingâ€? is the knowledge that even when I fail, He loves me and will never forsake me.

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(Dot’s book, Everyone Should Have an Opinion‌.Here’s Mine is a compilation of over 200 op-ed columns and letters-to-the-editor she wrote over the past 35 years.) Y metrochristianliving.com â?˜ MAY 2010 23

➺legal advice by WILLIAM B. HOWELL

For Caregivers, Writing it Down is Essential You had a busy life before. We all do. Where will you find the time to take If the day ever comes that you are called upon to become a on these new obligations? You will, because you have to. But having as much caregiver, whether it be for a parent or your spouse, you will likeas possible in writing will be a great aid to handling those hectic time ly feel at the very least overwhelmed if not completely lost. What demands. Many people find that a notebook that you can jot things down as do you do first? Many times these situations begin with an emergency. Who they come to your attention would be very helpful. would you call other than 911? Do you know the phone number of the docAnd don’t forget those minimal legal documents that you need in order tors or even the names of the doctors that have given treatment in the past to have authority to act on behalf of the person for whom you are giv(and who has the medical records)? ing care. At a minimum you are going to need a good advance In an emergency situation, when you get to the hospital directive with HIPAA provisions. This latter set there will be a lot of questions to be answered. There is Having it in writing is healthcare of letters refers to the federal medical privacy regulathe medical history to be given, possibly information essential for you and for tions that may well interfere with your ability to give about any prior surgeries and approximately when good care decisions for your loved one, especially if you they took place, are there any allergies involved and if the well-being of the one are prevented from communicating on their behalf. so, what type. The question is: Do you know? Have And you will need a good and thorough durable power of you asked about these issues when you had the opportuyou care about. attorney that gives you the necessary specific authority to act nity? in business matters as well. But even a well written power of attorEven when there is not an emergency, there will be numerous ney may not be honored. Then you are left with only the alternative of going additional demands upon your time. There will be the inevitable doctors’ to court for authority. A living trust could be more effective. appointments to be kept, prescriptions to be filled or refilled, caregivers to Writing is essential. Having it in writing is essential for you and for the be scheduled, and you have probably taken over paying the bills and they well-being of the one you care about. It will pay dividends in your peace of have to be attended to in a timely manner. Again, you need to know the mind as well as your efficiency in caring if you spend just a little time and information regarding these various obligations as well as where the finanput as much as you can in writing. Y cial accounts are located and who has access to them. If your loved one is in the hospital rather than ambulatory, your presence will be required for William B. Howell is a member of the National Academy of Elder Law Attorneys comfort, for decision making, and to try to keep informed of what the progand practices law in Ridgeland. nosis may be.

鵻鵼

鵻鵼

You have worked hard for it. WHY THROW IT AWAY? We are all living longer. But we are not all going to be in good health, or aware of our families, or both. Then what happens? Someone has to take over. The question is: Will this be someone you chose? And will it be outside of court or in court? The same with the distribution of your assets after you pass away: In court or out of court? The choice is yours. What about protecting your assets from lawsuits, or a child’s inheritance from a divorce? And will most of your hard-earned savings go to the nursing home? Or have you planned? Here are a few ideas for you to consider:

Living Trust – Allows the person you choose to take over for you in the event of your incapacity, without any court involvement. At your death the person you have chosen makes the distribution of your assets the way you have instructed in your Living Trust, and to do so promptly, inexpensively and privately, without going through probate in the court.

Asset Protection – Lawsuits are filed every day. If you get sued, are your assets protected? They can be, and probably should be. Also, the divorce rate has never been higher than it is today. Will your child’s divorce cause them to lose half of what you leave them after you are gone? Not if you plan now. The level of protection (or not) is up to you. Nursing Home Planning – Don’t qualify for long term care insurance, or can’t fit it in your budget? You don’t have to spend everything that you have in order to become eligible for nursing home benefits. There are legal and ethical ways for you to save well over half of your assets in most cases, even if you are already in the nursing home. Hear Mr. Howell on the radio

Tuesdays 8:35 am WJNT NewsTalk 1180 24 MAY 2010 ❘ Metro Christian Living

THE LAW FIRM OF

WILLIAM B. HOWELL, LTD. 406 Orchard Park • Ridgeland, Mississippi (601) 978-1700 or (800) 839-7857

National Academy of Elder Law Attorneys

food for thought by LYDIA BOLEN

Celebrations The month of May is a special time filled with many celebrations. For that reason, I chose my cousin’s family recipe for chicken spaghetti to serve for your Mother’s day meal, or those many family gatherings for graduation events. This casserole can be made ahead and freezes well. To accompany the chicken spaghetti, try something different and pre-

pare some roasted carrots. They are beautiful and so easy. Yeast rolls can round off a perfect meal and dessert can be a good old-fashioned lemon icebox pie. These special times fill our calendars, and we all enjoy anticipation of these upcoming events. This year delight your family with a delicious home cooked meal!

CHICKEN SPAGHETTI 1 5 or 6 pound hen or 6 chicken breasts (bone in) 1 large onion, 1 green pepper, 1 yellow pepper, 4 stalks celery, chopped Several cloves garlic, minced 1 box vermicelli, angel hair, or very thin spaghetti 1 can cream mushroom soup

1can cream chicken soup 1 can rotel tomatoes 1 can sliced black olives 8 ounce extra sharp cheese, grated Salt and pepper to taste

Season chicken with Tony Chachere’s seasoning. Boil the chicken breasts in a large pot. Save stock! Debone the chicken after cooled, and cut into pieces. In a cup of stock, sauté all the chopped vegetables. Cook pasta in the saved stock. (cook one box) Combine (in a large mixing bowl) the cut chicken, pasta, vegetables, soups, rotel, olives and cheese. Salt and pepper to taste. Mix all together, and put in 2 greased 9 by 13 Pyrex dishes. Put extra grated cheese on top. Heat at 350 or 375 degrees until bubbly. Can freeze before cooking.

LEMON ICE BOX PIE GRAHAM CRACKER CRUST 1 2/3 cups graham cracker crumbs 1/4 cup granulated sugar 8 tablespoons (1 stick) butter, melted

MERINGUE 2 to 4 large egg whites 6 tablespoons confectioners’ sugar 1/4 teaspoon cream of tartar

PIE FILLING 1 (14 oz.) can sweetened condensed milk 2 large egg yolks 1/2 cup fresh squeezed lemon juice 1 to 2 teaspoons lemon zest

Heat oven to 375 degrees and position rack in the middle. In a medium bowl, blend together the crumbs, sugar and butter using a handheld mixer until incorporated. (Or blend in a food processor). Scrape the mixture into a 9-inch pie pan. Use the back of a spoon press the mixture into the base and up the sides of the pie pan. Bake 8 to 10 minutes until golden brown. Cool slightly. Reduce heat to 325 degrees. In a mixing bowl, whisk by hand the condensed milk, the egg yolks, lemon juice and lemon zest until smooth. Evenly distribute into graham cracker pie crust. To make the meringue, place the egg whites in the bowl of an electric mixer fitted with the whisk attachment. Beat on low speed until combined. Then increase to high, beating until frothy. Add cream of tartar and confectioners’ sugar, 1 tablespoon at a time. Beat a total of 10 minutes. Spread meringue over the lemon pie filling. Bake 15 minutes or until the meringue is lightly brown. Let cool 30 minutes, then refrigerate until ready to eat. Makes 8 servings.

ROASTED CARROTS 12 carrots (or a bag of organic) Fresh thyme (fresh is best in this dish) 1/4 cup olive oil

Cut the tops off the carrots. Cut all the carrots into a uniform size for even cooking. Split each carrot down the middle to make more slices. Lay carrots out on a sheet pan and drizzle with olive oil. Make sure they are coated well. Season carrots with salt and pepper. Lastly, sprinkle with fresh thyme. Roast in 400 degree oven for 35-40 minutes. Can be served and topped off with chopped green onions if desired. Another fun variation: Omit the Thyme. Toss with crumbled feta cheese after roasting.

Remember to make memories through the kitchen…. “the heartbeat of the home”! Go to my blog for more recipes and email me anytime you have questions. www.lydiasapron.blogspot.com or lbbolen@gmail.com Y metrochristianliving.com ❘ MAY 2010 25

➺living my call by SUSAN DEAVER

Communicating

the Heart of God to His People

“Give thanks to the Lord, for He is good. His love endures forever.” – Psalm 136:2

SHEILA WALSH is a remarkably gifted singer, author, speaker, worship leader, and television personality. Through her music, writing, and speaking, she inspires others to love Jesus and accept that God loves us—forever. It is her passion in life to communicate the heart of God to his people. This multi-talented native of Scotland explains she spends about 30 weekends a year on the road because “This is where God has called me and I love the call.” Her husband and teenage son come with her when they can and for Walsh, that “just makes the journey even more special.” For the past fourteen years Walsh has been a featured speaker with the Women of Faith (WOF) organization, whose conferences draw arena-sized sellout crowds from coast to coast. “I love the authenticity and grace that the WOF platform extends to their audience,” explains Walsh. “We say to women, ‘Come as you are, come to the throne of grace.’” In addition to WOF conferences, Walsh does her own events for about half the year—such as the one she will host on June 12th, at Lakeshore Congregational Methodist Church in Byram. She enjoys these smaller venues because they give her “a wonderful opportunity to get more involved with a local church and spend more time with a smaller group of women.” Walsh loves to teach and says these events allow her to take time to “unpack an issue such as trust.” “Learning to trust changes everything,” Walsh states. “No matter how painful the transformation, you will not regret a moment lived, tear shed or fear faced along the way. There is a world of breathtaking wonder wrapped up in trusting God with everything you have and everything you are.” In her newest book, Beautiful Things Happen When A Woman Trusts God, Walsh encourages women to walk away from “the fears and trials” that hold them back in life and “to trust God loves them exactly where they are and in any circumstance.” “Women try to do it all, be the best Christian, the best mother, the best wife, etc. They put overwhelming pressure on themselves,” says Walsh, who has spoken and written openly about her own experiences with depression. “For years I tried to please everyone and it nearly killed me. It

❝

I don’t think that God calls any of us to be Wonder Woman, but He does want us to know that He has made us wonderful!

❞

is such a destructive pattern,” she continues. “I don’t think that God calls any of us to be Wonder Woman, but He does want us to know that He has made us wonderful!” Walsh is also working toward a Masters Divinity degree in Women’s Ministry. “I love the process of learning and I love to study and grow. I think when you have the tremendous privilege of speaking to over four million women with Women of Faith you want to be able to pass on as much as you can.” Walsh’s unique speaking style combines honesty, vulnerability and humor rooted in her passion for God’s Word. She believes, “We are all on a journey in this life; we have no choice on that front, but we are either growing or shrinking inside. We are either becoming more fully the woman that God knows us to be or becoming less recognizable daily.” Every morning Walsh gets up and prays the same prayer: “Father, I don’t know where you are going today but wherever it is, I’m coming with you.” She prays that prayer because she knows the safest place to be is where Jesus is. It won’t always look like it, she says, but it is. As Christians we are taught that inviting God into our daily lives with prayer is exactly what He wants. He will hear our call because we are His children. He will never leave us because His love endures forever. Y Susan Deaver is a freelance writer. She and her husband Mac live in Madison and are members of Christ United Methodist Church in Jackson. Contact Susan at sldeaver@comcast.net.

P.O. Box 3042 Ridgeland, MS 39158

601.420.2414 26 MAY 2010 ❘ Metro Christian Living

I

❋

❋ A Mother’s Greatest Mission

have lived with two extraordinary mothers in my life…my mother and my wife. Both of these special ladies are full of love, full of Christ, and desire to be to the best mothers they can be. As I have observed both of them, I have learned that being a mother is no easy task. Mothers live under a canopy of extreme pressure today. They are bombarded with messages of, “work and volunteer more,” “exercise and lose more,” “pray and study more,” “cook and clean more,” “dress-up and give more,” and, well...this list never ends. The pressures a mother lives under can be as numerous as the sources of those pressures. These pressures can come from our world, from husbands, from children, from friends, from media and yes, sometimes even the church. The ultimate message that can be received is, “You are not measuring up and need to do more to be great, to be loved, to be effective.” I recently sat with a weeping mother who shared that she lives with discouragement most of the time and feels like an unfit mom. With these types of messages, is there any wonder why? As I thought about the greatest mission a mother could have, I thought about several possible missions that are great. One may argue that the greatest mission is for a mother to not lose sight of who she is as an individual. After all, God has uniquely designed and gifted her beyond being a mother. Still some may say that a mother’s greatest mission is to maintain balance by recognizing the other parts of her life that need attention for her to stay healthy; i.e., her marriage, her friendships, her spiritual life, etc. Still

let’s talk it over

there are some who would contend that mothers, along with fathers, need to provide an environment for their kids that would encourage the “right” kinds of friendships, education, church and athletic experiences. After all, who doesn’t want to raise a confident and well-rounded child who is prepared to succeed in the world? While all of these missions are good, I feel that there is one greater, one that can keep a mother anchored when the world around her is screaming “Do more!” The greatest mission any mother can have is to prepare her children for adoption. Let me explain. In everything we say and do as parents, it should be our chief goal to point our children to the ultimate Parent in God. Write it down, you are going to fail at times. You will not always have all of the answers. There will even be times when you will hurt your child and not even know you are doing it. As a mother (and father), one of the greatest things we can do for our kids is to own who we are and to constantly send the message to our children that there is One who wants to “adopt” them. There is One who will never let them down. God is the ultimate Parent! I believe when mothers and fathers embrace this as their greatest mission, the rest of our parenting duties seem to fall into proper perspective. Here are some helpful ideas to consider in preparing your child to be parented by God. Lee Smith is a Licensed Professional Counselor at Summit Counseling. He has been married for 10 years and has two children, living in the Madison area and attending Pinelake Church.

Imagine Behavioral Health Structured Specialty Programs (IOP) for Adolescents and Young Adults We work with young people and their families experiencing severe distress as a result of substance abuse, depression, anxiety, anger and other destructive behaviors. All of our services are performed or supervised by board certified psychiatrists and master’s level clinicians. We accept private insurance and provide scholarships to those in need.

(601) 982-5376 • www.imagineiop.com

by LEE SMITH

☺ Ask your children to forgive you when you miss the mark as their parent. Let them know that you forgive them when they mess up. Let these times be teachable moments in which you discuss God’s love, grace and forgiveness.

☺ Look for ways for your family to serve others (widows, single moms, hospitals, homeless shelters, etc.) At the end of each day, ask your child what they did today for someone else.

☺ Listen to your child. Send the message to them that they are important and worth being listened to. Remind them that God wants to hear from them too.

☺ Pick a scripture each week that the family will work together to memorize. Let each person in the family take turns contributing a new verse each week. Play a game around the dinner table each night to see who has it memorized.

☺ Encourage children to surprise their siblings by doing chores for them.

☺ Read devotions and pray with your children. Ask how you can be praying for your children better. Depending on their age, ask them what God is teaching them or what Bible verses have spoken to them lately. If the child is older, allow them to lead the family devotion from time to time.

☺ Give greater affirmation when you see them love and serve than when they hit a homerun. Brag on them in front of others for the way they serve and love people.

☺ Above all, remember that the best way for a child to learn to love God is to be around two parents who are in love with Him. Let them catch you praying and studying His word. Be ready to share with them how His love is changing you. Y

Professional DRUMMER 40+ years of experience Now accepting limited number of new students. For more information call

(601)-940-8775 metrochristianliving.com ❘ MAY 2010 27

➺welcome home by CHRISTI B. STECKEL

① CRAFT ROOM

A PLACE OF

④

Refreshment and Renewal Drop kids off at school, laundry, work, lunch, volunteer, car-pool, homework, cook, clean, bedtime…are you thirsty? Find time in your day to refresh your soul—to simply sit, read the bible, create, or visit with friends. The following rooms are places of refreshment that you can create in your home!

⑤

③ ② 1. Frame a cork board or chalk board to keep items that inspire you out in the open.

ORGANIZE YOUR SPACE

①

1. A place for creative refreshment should be a welcoming place. Keep chaos out and organization in.

2. Use a collection of bottles as a decorative detail for your bookcases.

2. Start the day with the Creator.

② ③

favorite coffee or tea by your side.

4. Keep creative supplies ready to use so you know what you have when you’re ready to start that sewing or art project.

3. Keep your favorite candy nearby just for you!

⑤

4. Think in threes to mainstream your organized look.

5. Use different types of boxes and pots from around your house to hold all of your creative supplies.

28 MAY 2010 ❘ Metro Christian Living

3. Always have your

④

5. Play music and browse the web for ideas or just keep up with old friends.

QUIET TIME 1. Start your day refreshed in the word of God.

GIFT SHOP

④

2. Keep a notebook at your side to write down your thoughts and scriptures.

⑤

3. Position yourself next to a window so you can take in the view. 4. Make it your space by decorating with special pieces that just make you happy.

②

Apple Annie’s

③

Silver and Glass Beads $4.95! Bracelets * Earrings * Rings * Key chains (fits Pandora jewelry)

rs u o y e Creattoday!

①

5. Put those feet up and relax in a comfortable chair.

601.992.9925 www.appleanniesgiftshop.com OPEN: Tuesday–Friday: 10:00 a.m.–5:30 p.m. Saturday: 10:00 a.m.–4:00 p.m. ON GRANTS FERRY AT THE RESERVOIR

BACK PORCH

①

1. Invite a friend

③

over to share the sunshine and a focused conversation while the kids are at school.

2. Surround yourself with flowers and trees that fill your space and your mood with goodness.

3. Repurpose art that you don’t have a place for in your house and bring it outside to enjoy!

②

4. Stay refreshed with your favorite ice cold soda.

④

Sheila Walsh Nationally acclaimed Christian speaker, vocalist and author is coming to: Lakeshore Congregational Methodist Church

SATURDAY, JUNE 12, 2010 9:00 a.m. – 3:00 p.m. For tickets call

601.373.0294 6880 Siwell Road • Byram, MS metrochristianliving.com ❘ MAY 2010 29

➺this is my story by MARILYN TINNIN

The SilverFox Link for Peace of Mind It can be a very unsettling feeling to telephone your widowed mom, age 75, and get no answer. Suddenly your day is disrupted by the frantic steps you take to see that Mom is ok. The “sandwich generation” term evolved to define the millions of adults sandwiched between aging parents and their own children. If you haven’t personally experienced the challenges faced by this demographic, it won’t take long for you to find someone who has. Ridgeland based, Silver Fox Communications, LLC recently launched a product to address this very audience. Actually an amazing miniature telephone worn by the user, SilverFox Link™ allows the user to receive incoming calls or to place a call for assistance from both inside and outside the home. The innovation provides the senior at home the independence which they desire while also bringing peace of mind to those who care for them. Owen P. Lalor, founder and CEO of Silver Fox, explains the unique features that set this product apart. While medical alert products have been on the market for a number of years, they are all designed to help you AFTER an accident or fall. SilverFox Link™ actually provides benefit BEFORE an accident by reducing the risk of a fall. There is no longer a reason to rush across a room to answer a ringing telephone. Unlike other

medical alert devices, SilverFox Link™ will work even outside the home making it ideal for those who enjoy gardening or sitting outside on the porch or the patio. You have likely seen the commercial of the lady who has “fallen and can’t get up.” She typically presses a button activating a speaker phone somewhere in the house. Although she may be able to hear an operator who’s come on the line from the speaker phone two rooms away, that operator likely can’t hear her if she is lying on the floor in another room. With SilverFox Link she could let the operator know she is in trouble but instead of sending an ambulance, she’d just like her neighbor to come and help her up. In its simplest form, SilverFox Link is a phone, watch, and connection to family, friends, and caregivers. The fact that it is incredibly simple to operate is also a plus. There are no confusing button sequences, blinking lights, or complex operating instructions. The monitoring service of SilverFox Link™ is available 24 hours per day, 7 days per week, 365 days a year. With a squeeze of the buttons the operator is there to answer and to secure the appropriate assistance. Family, caregivers and seniors can find information at www.silverfoxlink.com or may visit one of several Durable Medical Equipment providers in the market to learn more about SilverFox Link.™ Y

Rex B. Williams, M.D.

Board Certified in Pain Management Diplomate, American Board of Anesthesiology Specializing in the treatment of pain associated with various spinal disorders. The staff of Pain Management Consultants, P.L.L.C pride themselves in the knowledge and implementation of the latest interventional procedures for the treatment and management of spinal pain.

West Tower, St. Dominic’s Medical Offices 971 Lakeland Dr., Suite 1060 • Jackson, MS 39216

601-982-4644 A P P O I N T M E N T S M A D E B Y D O C TO R R E F E R R A L 30 MAY 2010 ❘ Metro Christian Living

money talks by J. RANDALL MASCAGNI

ROLE MODELS W

ith May offering a celebration of Mother’s Day, I can’t help but to stop and think of two ladies who played very key roles in my life—my mother and my grandmother. I sometimes wonder what they would say if they knew how they shaped my interests and even my career. I guess Mom was like most mothers back then, the “Chief Purchasing Officer� for the household. She handled our home’s day-to-day tasks, cared for my sick brother (including managing all his expensive medication), as well as balancing the family checkbook. And like most other women of her day, she tried very hard to spend within the amount of money my father gave her each week to sustain the household. If there was something left over to invest, my father handled that. Mom had no interest in long-term investing. But after my father passed, she managed to live within her means without spending her principal, maintained zero debt, and always paid in cash. The only credit she ever used was a gas card when she might find herself out of town and not wanting to pay in cash. And what’s more, she was

also generous and enjoyed giving special gifts. God also gives us grandmothers—each a gift from heaven. Most would say I had my grandmother wrapped around my finger, and some would even say I was “spoiled.� That’s probably true, but she taught me so much about life, including finances. Take, for example, the penny scale in my grandfather’s barbershop which she delegated to my management at a very young age. Or the opportunity she gave me to pick up pecans in their backyard to make a little spending money. Being a child, I really didn’t need the money, but the small opportunity to have some pocket change—and the opportunity to save it—accomplished something that affected me so much later. After her passing, while cleaning out the house she and my grandfather shared, I found they were on the “envelope� budget system. They had an envelope for every expense category, even their tithe to the church. That simple system, from more than 50 years ago, is probably still the best personal budget system today. Like my mother, my grandmother was generous and enjoyed giving little unexpected gifts.

And some gifts she gave me, she must have known how valuable they would later become. God can use the little, sometimes simple, mundane times in your life to mold you for later in life. So how can we pass on positive morals, constructive values, and thoughtful money habits to the next generation? Well, I have learned that sometimes it’s the little, simple lessons that can matter the most in life. Looking back I realize that each of their situations taught me so much. Even today I can relate so well to my lady clients as we work to provide financial planning and investment advice that’s catered to their special needs. So my hat’s off to all the Moms and Grandmas out there doing the very important work for their families—work that we sometimes don’t even realize the importance of until years down the road. Happy Mother’s Day! Y J. Randall Mascagni, MBA, CFPŽ is President of Mascagni & Company, Inc., Financial and Investment Advisor contact him at randy@mascagni.com or (601)

925-8099.

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metrochristianliving.com â?˜ MAY 2010 31

➺our daily bread by SUSAN DEAVER

THE FAITH?

How Do You Keep

T

his column is for sharing our faith with other readers. Sharing with—and serving others changes us and reminds us that our time on earth is about much more than our own needs. Please email us at info@metrochristianliving.com.

“Be devoted to one another in brotherly love. Honor one another above yourselves.”

Eric Smith

Wanda Pitts One word keeps me balanced and in faith; REMEMBER which means to keep in mind and think of again and again. In the good times, in the hard and difficult times, I remember that God is Faithful. I remember that our relationship is personal and that I have the privilege to call Him, Father. I remember that the One who called me is completely dependable (Faithful) and if He said it, he’ll do it! (1 Thessalonians 5:24 MSG). I remember that all things work together for good to them that love God, to them who are called to His purpose. I remember that I can hope in God and wait expectantly for him. I remember that He is the Rock that is higher than I. I remember that I can call on Him and that He will answer. I remember that I can run to Him, come to Him, lean and depend on Him. I remember that He knows my name and that He first loved me and chose me. I remember that I can cast all my cares upon Him for He cares for me. I remember that He is the Most High God, the True and Living God, the All Wise and Powerful God. I remember what He has already done for me and that He is the Only God for Me. I REMEMBER!

This column exists to share our faith with others, which I am extremely humbled to do. I have to be honest, faith can be challenging, but the Christian journey without taking steps of faith is pretty empty. The book of James says that faith without action is dead, so faith is clearly more than just a mental belief—it is action! I recently had a great test of my faith when God called me to leave the comfort of a ministry position at a great church to start a new church. It became very clear that God was calling me to leave my staff position and take the steps of faith to start North Ridge Church in the Northeast Jackson/South Ridgeland area. Taking this step of faith has really stretched me, but I know that if I did not take it, I would be missing God’s will. I have been reminded that authentic faith is about taking risks to advance the Kingdom of God. I believe that if Christ followers would commit to take steps of faith, God would do great things. The Bible teaches that the harvest is plentiful, but the workers are few! What is God calling you to risk for the Kingdom?

Susan Deaver is a freelance writer. She and her husband Mac live in Madison and are members of Christ United Methodist Church in Jackson. Contact Susan at sldeaver@comcast.net.

Summit Recovery Ministries

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INTENSIVE COUNSELING PROGRAMS (ICP) For individuals and families from a Christian perspective • • • • • • • • • •

Behavioral Problems Anger Management Depression/Dealing with Loss Self-Esteem Social & Life Skills/Problem-Solving Skills/Goal Setting/Communication Skills Family Dynamics/Emotional Healing Assertiveness Training Drug/Alcohol Abuse/Dependency Eating Disorders/Self Harm Pornography/Sexual Addiction/Sexual Identity

BRANDON 209 Woodgate Dr. South Brandon, MS 39042

601-824-4405 www.venableglass.com 32 MAY 2010 ❘ Metro Christian Living

– Romans 12:10

601.949.1949 www.counselingministry.com

fresh finds by CHRISTI B. STECKEL

Magnificent Moms O! How Cute – Moms always need a place to keep their lists. Give her this cute magnetic board for her prayers lists. ($11.95)

Fresh-Way – Simple and thoughtful, get mom a fresh & colorful geranium plant. ($14)

Persnickety – Add to her collection of crosses with beautiful initial crosses by Hinkle Creek Pottery. ($12.50) She will wear this John Wind Initial bracelet everyday! (starting at $22.50)

Monkey Charms – Liven up mom’s wardrobe with these snazzy zebra cross earrings. ($8.99)

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Apple Annie’s – Mom will love wearing this beautiful statement jewelry. (starting at $26.95)

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Sympa

Tay Morgan Designs – The perfect gift, inspirational stationery for mom! (starting at $6.95)

Great Grads Keep it together in this personalized shower caddy. $9.95 O! How Cute – She won’t misplace her towel in the dorms with this adorable initial beach or bath towel. ($28.00)

Apple Annie’s – The dorm room showers won’t seem so bad with this cute towel wrap dress! $22.95 (monogramming available)

Persnickety – Show your loyalty with reclaimed college letters by Stillwater ($36)

Game Room Gallery – Every guy can use a dart board for his dorm! (starting at $49.99)

This frame is a great way to remember those high school friends and memories. $13.95

Monkey Charms – Send her off to college in style with this personalized cosmetic bag. Comes in multiple styles. (starting at $3.99)

metrochristianliving.com ❘ MAY 2010 33

➺rave reviews BOOKS

Susan’s PICK No More Christian Nice Girl Reviewed by Susan E. Richardson

If you took a second look at this book’s title, you’re not alone. Nice often tops the list of how Christian women think they should behave. However, authors Paul Coughlin and Jennifer D. Degler argue that being a Christian Nice Girl means being dishonest in relationships, denying true feelings, and giving in rather than standing up in tough situations. Instead, God’s Good Women speak the truth in love, set proper boundaries, and live following Jesus. The authors begin by challenging readers to look more deeply than “gentle Jesus, meek and mild.” While Jesus was both loving and kind, He did not back away from confrontation when necessary. Being an authentic follower of Christ means reflecting both His tenderness and His firmness. Gender differences were God’s idea, so the authors look at some of the ways these play into development. Society then adds a “sugar and spice and everything nice” expectation that promotes false niceness rather than Godly courage. Instead of helping women break free, church culture often adds expectations that lead more to niceness. So how does being nice instead of good cripple women? The authors devote chapters to areas like friendships and family, dating, marriage, sex, and work. In each they show that the underlying patterns of false niceness work against having full, healthy relationships and being like Christ. If you’re ready to stop being nice and start being one of God’s Good Women, pick up a copy of No More Christian Nice Girl. Y Susan E. Richardson is a writer, critique reader, and former Christian retailer with a passion for meeting people’s needs through the written word. You can reach her through her website www.nextlevelcritiques.com.

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34 MAY 2010 ❘ Metro Christian Living

Forecasts and Faith Five Keys to Weathering the Storms of Life Reviewed by Marilyn Tinnin WLBT’s chief meteorologist Barbie Bassett comes across as the real All American girl next door. That’s because she is. As a wife, a mother (who home-schools), a volunteer, and a lady who successfully wears more hats than I can count, Barbie shares an inside view of who she is and what she values most in her new book, Forecasts and Faith, Five Keys to Weathering the Storms of Life. Available at Lemuria and on Amazon.com, you will find Barbie’s story is refreshing, honest, and filled with personal stories that stir your own reflections. A great Mother’s Day idea!

Y

FILMS

Letters to God Reviewed by Julie Whitehead In the movie Letters to God, Brady McDaniels (played by Jeffery Johnson) takes a mail route whose customers include a lady eight months pregnant with a husband in Iraq, a very big and friendly dog, a crusty curmudgeon, and a single mother whose youngest son has brain cancer. Tyler, the child with cancer, puts letters addressed to God in the postal box every day with prayers for his family members and friends, questions he wants God to answer, and observations he’s made on life. Brady, a war veteran who had turned to alcohol for solace, becomes involved in the life of the neighborhood and its church in a very meaningful way through Tyler’s letters. The child actors, Tanner Maguire (who plays Tyler), Bailee Madison (playing Tyler’s best friend Samantha), and C. J. Amari (playing Alex) steal the show from the adults with a wonderful mix of hilarity and vulnerability as they navigate the difficult emotional territory the movie works to explore. Very young children may not possess the sophistication to process all the themes in this movie, but older children and adults should certainly be able to understand the movie’s action and message. It’s a real tear-jerker of a movie, so have your tissues handy. Rated PG. Y Julie Whitehead of Brandon has been a mother since 1996 and a freelance writer since 2000. She was given a Mississippi Press Association award for her work in 2006.

➺

event collage

Stewpot & HeARTworks at Work

R

ecently the StewPot cafeteria and library received a fresh and much needed renovation! HeARTWorks, an independent art ministry at Stewpot, was having difficulty transporting art supplies to and from Stewpot, so through a grant application they were awarded a $6000 grant from Home Depot to help build new shelving for supplies and give the entire space new life! Over 50 volunteers helped to build new supply cabinets, lay new flooring, painted walls, and replaced picnic tables. Y

There’s a new way to WAKE UP in the mornings!

Russ and Traci—Just Horsing Around

Russ and Traci Weekdays 7 a.m. – 9 a.m.

www.STAR93FM.com metrochristianliving.com ❘ MAY 2010 35

MAY

➺summer camp directory Camp of the Rising Son Camp of the Rising Son has 30 years of experience providing adventure, fun, time outdoors, friendships, and the opportunity to learn and grow in a safe, caring, Christcentered setting! Our Rising Son Adventures programs for teens offer Rafting Adventures, Horse Camp, Astronomy Camp, and a Leadership Training Program. Join us this summer—visit www.campoftherisingson.com today! Camp Windover Camp Windhover is an American Camp Association accredited independent camp, located near Crystal Springs, MS that keeps the fun quotient high. Seven to fourteenyear-old boys and girls blob, trampoline, and zip into a spring-fed lake; play drums, guitar, and sports; trail ride on horses and bikes, dance, act, and much more. Counselors-inTraining 15-17 (must apply) receive leadership training and work with counselors. Oneweek and two-week sessions run June 13July 17. Visit www.campwindhover.com for the 2010 schedule or call (601) 892-3282. Jackson Academy Join us for a summer filled with adventure! You can dig in the dirt or sail the seas on the Jolly Raider. Learn robotic technology or brush up on math and English. Sharpen your athletic skills or create crafty works of art. There are adventures available for ages 4-18. Camps are led by the Jackson Academy teaching and coaching staffs and

local artists. Join us at Jackson Academy for a Summer of Adventure! Call for details and registration forms. Contact Lynn Green at (601) 364-5763 or lkgreen@jacksonacademy.org. Jackson Prep Come experience the fun at Jackson Prep this summer! Here’s a glimpse of what you might find:A wide variety of camps, over 20 in all, ranging from Calligraphy to Chess to Cheerleading, Caring instructors passionate about their camps, A fun way to make new friends. See you at Prep! Call Cindy Brooks at (601) 939-8611 ext 251 for more information. Jason Griffin Taekwondo & Jiu-Jitsu This summer be the next KARATE KID at Jason Griffin’s Taekwondo Academy! Unlimited classes available Monday-Saturday for you to pick and choose the ones you like best. You can pick Summer A (June) Summer B (July) or train all summer! Sign up before June 5th and GET A FREE TICKET TO SEE THE KARATE KID! Call (601) 977-9000 Ridgeland and (601) 824-0058 Brandon to reserve your spot on the mat today! Spaces are limited...CALL TODAY! Professional Drum Lessons Beat the heat with private drum lessons from professional drummer Doug Thomas. With over 40 years of experience he teaches all ages, second graders to

adults! Contact him today to reserve a spot (601) 940-8775. St. Andrews School Summer is a time to be creative, sharpen skills, and explore hidden talents; but mostly it is time to have FUN! Our programs are open to everyone. Kindercamp (pre3-rising 1st) and Adventure Camp (rising 2-rising 5th) are filled with weekly activities and After Care is also available. Other classes and programs include robotics, theater, all sports, computer, Chess USA, SAT/ACT Test Prep, and academic review. We are even offering adult classes this year as well. Visit gosaints.org for a complete list and register on-line or email Candy Woolverton at woolvertonca@gosaints.org. Twin Lakes Twin Lakes Summer Camp in Florence, MS is a “family favorite� for over 10 years. Twin Lakes offers Overnight Camps for ages 6-12 and Day Camps for ages 5-10 with a Biblical emphasis throughout each day and quality summer staff members to care for your children. Exciting activities include challenge course, horses, archery, kayaking, 155-foot waterslide, water trampoline, and more! Contact us for a camp golf cart tour. www.twinlakescamp.org or (601) 845-6858.

Y

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Wright & Ferguson Funeral Home Parkway Memorial Cemetery

JACKSON

RIDGELAND

CLINTON

RAYMOND

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persnickety is … the best place to find a gift in Mississippi.*

Peter’s Pottery The Good Earth Pottery Annieglass Jay Strongwater Mary Rose Young

Moni Pottery Simon Pearce Riedel Thymes

Niven Morgan Herend Casafina Vietri Seda France

*according to Mississippi Magazine voters

2078 Main Street, Madison, MS 39110 • 601-853-9595 metrochristianliving.com ❘ MAY 2010 37

➺quips & quotes God walls the sea with sand. God clears the air with storms. God warms the earth with snow.He exalts us to heaven by the stumbling-block of the cross.

ADVERTISING INDEX

“Enemy occupied territory - that is what this world is. Christianity is the story of how the rightful king has landed; you might say landed in disguise, and is calling us all to take part in a great campaign in sabotage.” – C.S. Lewis

“No man has a good enough memory to be a successful liar.”

– Christopher Wordsworth

– Abraham Lincoln

As for God, his way is perfect; the word of the LORD is flawless. He is a shield for all who take refuge in him. – Psalm 18:30

“There is no cure for laziness, but a large family helps.” - Herbert V. Prochnow

He that followeth after righteousness and mercy findeth life, righteousness, and honor.

– Proverbs 21:21

Counsel is mine, and sound wisdom: I am understanding; I have strength. – Proverbs 8:14

Now therefore go, and I will be with thy mouth, and teach thee what thou shalt say.

Blessed is the people that know the joyful sound: they shall walk, O Lord, in the light of thy countenance.

– Exodus 4:12

– Psalm 89:15

“A man may study because his brain is hungry for knowledge. But he prays because his soul is hungry for God.” – Leonard Ravenhill

As a prisoner of the Lord, then, I urge you to live a life worthy of the calling you have received. Be completely humble and gentle; be patient, bearing with one another in love. Make every effort to keep the unity of the Spirit through the bond of peace. There is one body and one Spirit—just as you were called to one hope when you were called—one Lord, one faith, one baptism. One God and Father of all who is over all and through all and in all. – Ephesians 4:1-4

NORTH STATE ANIMAL & BIRD HOSPITAL 5208 North State Street • Jackson, MS 39206

601-982-8261 Dr. Adrian Whittington Dr. Jeb Cade Dr. Melissa McLendon OFFICE HOURS: Monday-Friday: 7:30 am - 6:00 pm Saturday: 8:00 am - 12:00 pm Sunday: Boarding only 5:00 pm - 6:00 pm

Boarding & Grooming Services Available

38 MAY 2010 ❘ Metro Christian Living

ADVERTISER PAGE Apple Annie’s...................................................29 Ashford Eye Clinic............................................31 Baptist Health Systems ......................................5 Belhaven University..........................................36 Belhaven University Graduate & Online Program.............................................23 Camp of the Rising Son...................................11 Carr, Riggs & Ingram........................................13 Cellular South.....................................................3 Christ Covenant School ...................................13 City of Clinton ....................................................8 Drum Lessons...................................................27 East Lakeland OB-GYN......................................2 Energy Insulation..............................................10 Environment Masters .........................................8 First Presbyterian Day School..........................16 Flowood Chamber of Commerce ...................11 Fresh Way Produce ..........................................11 Game Room Gallery ........................................10 Grantham Poole...............................................37 Healthy Mississippi...........................................26 Highland Village ...............................................16 Imagine Behavioral Health Services ................27 Jackson Academy ..............................................2 Jackson Prep ....................................................15 Jazzy Dancer ....................................................19 Mascagni ..........................................................12 Maine’s Best Kept Secret.................................34 Maine Street Greenwood ................................19 Medtronic.........................................................39 Mississippi College ..........................................15 Mitz Designs.....................................................38 Monkey Charms ...............................................23 North State Animal Hospital ...........................38 O! How Cute Gift Market ................................11 Odyssey Health Care .........................................7 Pain Management Consultants .......................30 Payne Realty.....................................................14 Pennsylvania Life ..............................................31 Persnickety .......................................................37 Pilates Studio ...................................................16 Sheila Walsh .....................................................29 St. Andrews ......................................................12 Stegall Imagery ................................................37 Sitters, LLC .......................................................32 Southern Farm Bureau.....................................16 Summit Counseling..........................................32 Tinnin Imports ..................................................18 Trio....................................................................40 Venable Glass...................................................32 William B. Howell .............................................24 WHJT Start 93.5...............................................35 Wright & Ferguson ..........................................37 For more information on our advertisers visit www.metrochristianliving.com

PRISCILLA’S STORY Osteoporosis is a disease that causes bone to become weak and susceptible to fracture. Of the 10 million Americans with this disease, 80% are women, and having a mother with osteoporosis puts a daughter particularly at risk. Priscilla Turner, 67, of Memphis, TN knows this risk all too well. Her 90-year-old mother, Jewell Fondren, suffers from osteoporosis (a disease that causes bone to become weak and susceptible to fracture). Over the past 30 years, Jewell has experienced a hip fracture, spinal fractures, and has a hunched back that may have been caused by multiple spinal fractures. Jewell, who lives with her daughter, has difficulty walking, cannot bend, and finds her clothes don’t fit well because of her hunched back. Two years ago, Priscilla seemed to be heading toward the same fate as her mother when she suffered from back pain. Priscilla went to see her doctor and discovered she had a spinal fracture. She was also diagnosed with osteopenia or low bone mineral density that can lead to osteoporosis. “I just thought I was getting older,” she said. “I didn’t know my bones were breaking, but when my doctor told me I had a spinal fracture, I was very surprised.” Like Priscilla, the estimated 44 million Americans at risk for osteoporosis are often unaware that they have the disease until they break a bone, according to the National Osteoporosis Foundation (NOF), sponsors of National Osteoporosis Awareness and Prevention Month. However, today more information is known about the risk factors for osteoporosis and fractures. If you have a low bone mineral density coupled with one or more other risk factors, you are at increased risk of having an osteoporosis-related fracture over the next 10 years, according to a recent publication by the World Health Organization (WHO). These risk factors include a previous fracture, a parent who has had a hip fracture, smoking, taking steroid medications, drinking three or more glasses of alcohol daily, and suffering from rheumatoid arthritis or from a disorder strongly associated with osteoporosis. Less was known about osteoporosis years ago when Priscilla’s mother was prescribed pain pills and bed rest to manage her osteoporosis-related spinal fractures. Treatments are now available to help strengthen bones, and new procedures have been developed to repair spinal fractures. When Priscilla experienced her spinal fracture, her primary care physician referred her to orthopaedic surgeon Dr. Edward Pratt* of the Memphis Spine Center, who treated her spinal fracture with balloon kyphoplasty. Balloon kyphoplasty is a minimally invasive procedure that can reduce back pain and correct the deformity caused by a spinal fracture. Small balloons are inserted and inflated in the fractured area of the spine to restore it back to its normal shape. After the balloons are deflated and removed, the cavity that has been created is filled with special bone cement, creating an internal cast.

“Osteoporosis has kept Mama from being as mobile as I knew her years ago,” Priscilla said. “Her movements are restricted. She cannot bend nor do many activities around the house. Her walking is limited.” When Priscilla experienced her second spinal fracture in 2007 and her activities became restricted due to the back pain, she decided to take action to avoid her mother’s fate. She again had her fracture repaired with balloon kyphoplasty and now exercises regularly and takes prescription drugs and calcium supplements to prevent more bone loss. “Today I do everything,” she said. “We have a two-story home, and I am always going up and down the steps, and I couldn’t do that before the (balloon kyphoplasty) procedures because of my back pain. I am also gardening again. I walk two miles a day and work out on weight machines. I am a very active person. I don’t sit.” The National Osteoporosis Foundation estimates that one in two women and one in four men over age 50 will experience an osteoporosis-related fracture in their lifetime. Dr. Pratt believes that efforts like National Osteoporosis Prevention and Awareness Month are helping to raise much needed awareness of the risks and treatments for osteoporosis and related fractures. “The world is beginning to gradually wake up and see that osteoporosis is a problem and that the best way to treat it is to stay ahead of it,” says Dr. Pratt. To learn more about osteoporosis, visit the National Osteoporosis Foundation at www. nof.org. For more information about spinal fractures, take the risk assessment, go to www.spinalfracture.com. *Paid consultant of Medtronic Although the complication rate with KYPHON® Balloon Kyphoplasty has been demonstrated to be low, as with most surgical procedures, there are risks associated with the procedure, including serious complications. This procedure is not for everyone. A prescription is required. Please consult your physician for a full discussion of risks and whether this procedure is right for you. For more information please call Medtronic at 1-888-645-4444 and/or visit www.kyphon.com.

If you’re over 50 or have osteoporosis, it’s important that you don’t ignore your back pain. It may signal a spinal fracture. See your doctor right away if you think you may have one.

TAKE CHARGE Don’t turn your back on back pain.

Spinal fractures can be repaired if diagnosed. KYPHON® Balloon Kyphoplasty is a minimally invasive treatment for spinal fractures that can correct vertebral body deformity, reduce pain and improve patient quality of life.

before

balloon kyphoplasty

after

For more information on balloon kyphoplasty or to find a local physician performing the procedure, call 800-652-2221 or visit www.kyphon.com Although the complication rate with KYPHON® Balloon Kyphoplasty has been demonstrated to be low, as with most surgical procedures, there are risks associated with the procedure, including serious complications. This procedure is not for everyone. A prescription is required. Please consult your physician for a full discussion of risks and whether this procedure is right for you. © 2008 Medtronic Spine LLC. All Rights Reserved.

MEDTRONIC Spinal and Biologics Business 1221 Crossman Avenue Sunnyvale, CA 94089 USA Tel: (408) 548-6500 16003152_002 [01]

Priscilla is exceedingly close to her mother. They spend afternoons on their parlor couch, reminiscing about their years together or sitting quietly as Priscilla reads and her mother knits. However, she knows that she does not want to suffer the same fate as her mother. metrochristianliving.com ❘ MAY 2010 39

(FU SFBEZ GPS TVNNFS XJUI CVZ POF get one free laser hair removal! (consultation required) Don’t forget Gift CertiďŹ cates make the perfect gift for Mother’s Day!

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