2019 SPRING by Modern Grace Magazine

SPRING 2019

VALUES AND VIEWS You donâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;t have to travel far

THE SELF ESTEEM PROJECT We are all beautiful

SEASONS CHANGE

Rest assured a new season is ahead

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CONTENTS

FROM THE EDITOR working together

CONTRIBUTORS the wonderful people who make it possible

GUILT-FREE “ME TIME” cruelty-free is easier than you think

TIPS FOR FINDING GREAT DEALS with stylist Nicole Brice

HOW TO SURVIVE THE LOUISIANA HEAT Alana Voorhies helps us stay cool

IT’S A TEEN THING highlighting local teens

NEW BEGINNINGS 2 minutes a day to better health

COVER PHOTO: LACI BRICE

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FRESH FOOD, FRESH START Roman Quinn weighs in

“I’M OKAY” say it and mean it

FOOD RECIPES simple southern cooking

VEGAN FOOD RECIPES vegan steak, easy and delicious

THE BOOKCASE take it off the shelf

MAKE A CHOICE it’s all up to you

SEASONS CHANGE rest assured a new season is ahead

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CONTENTS

NATURE’S BACKDROP no budget required

THE SELF ESTEEM PROJECT we are all beautiful

PICTURE LOUISIANA Shreveport-Bossier

VALUES AND VIEWS you don’t have to travel far

LOUISIANA FESTIVALS fun and food for the whole family

MACRAMÉ DIY diy fun for Spring

SEASONAL DÉCOR IDEAS the louisiana farmhouse

SUCCULENTS IN SPRING gardening without land

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F ROM TH E E DITOR

pring is a time of encouragement. It’s a time of renewing. Spring carries the principals that in encouraging growth and in everything working together, we can find beauty and fulfill our calling. Growth in the springtime and throughout the summer is a result of several important factors: protection, food, water, light, and development. Keep in mind while you are enjoying the beautiful wildflowers or watching the trees come back to life that all through the fall and winter the soil was preparing itself for this. Autumn is a favorite season of many, but after the gloriously colored leaves are replaced by

heaps of crunchy brown under barren trees, it can feel desolate. Yet those leaves provide protection to plants and animals. Winter gets a bad rap, but it is winter that produces decomposition of the leaves that provide the much needed nutrients to the soil. February through April showers, are often unwelcome, however it’s those showers that bring the nutrients and sugars to the plants. In Louisiana, some people don’t like the sun or heat, but it’s the sun that brings light, warmth, and provides the energy needed for photosynthesis. Lastly, our insect population is vast and annoying, yet it’s those insects that spread pollination

and develop our vegetation. Everything working together. The separate parts of nature work in an encouraging array of life. If even one part of the system fails, spring would fail. Life would fail. We each play an important role in society, just like all the seasons and elements play in nature. No part is more important than another. When we work together, instead of against each other, we all benefit. The beauty is in playing our own part, and encouraging others so that their parts can thrive also. In my latest blog, titled Women, Are We the Enemy? (michellejester.net) I mention that some women try to bring other women down, mainly due to their own insecurities. Somewhere along the way many women were taught that other women are the enemy; when in fact, the opposite is true. We should be allies to each other, man or woman, in a world full of despair, discouragement, depression, and disappointment. We each have a purpose. Unlike nature, you have a choice to do your part or not. And whether you are the PROTECTION that keeps life safe, the FOOD that feeds the needs, the WATER that carries the food, the LIGHT that yields the process, or the DEVELOPER who builds and transports, your job is important. You are important. Watch spring and be encouraged that you and your role in society are vital. Encourage others so that they can also embrace their individuality and thrive. We need us all. Sincerely,

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CONTRIBUTORS

A LE XIS J ES TE R Creative Director

TAY LOR VOISIN Art Director

N E L DA A R N O L D Food and Home Contributor

M E G H A N AU TI N Lifestyle and Photo Contributor

TA B IT H A B E R A R D Health Contributor

A N N A BOY T E R Vegan Food Contributor

L AC I B R I C E Lifestyle Contributor

NICOLE BRICE Fashion and Lifestyle Contributor

TY BRICE Teen Contributor

T.J. B R U N E R Health Contributor

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T Y RO N E CA L L A H A N Lifestyle and Photo Contributor

J.C. C O K E R Lifestyle and Photo Contributor

CA RO LI N E D I B E N E D E T TO Issue Model

SK YE DIX Teen Contributor

B R IT TA N Y E DWA R D S

J O S I E B LU E E VA N S

Inspirational Contributor

Issue Model

A B BY E FA L K N E R Culture and Photo Contributor

Teen Contributor

K R I S TI W I L LI A M S FO N T E N OT Inspirational Contributor

J E R E M Y G H AWA LY Inspirational Contributor

C U R TI S G R E E N Health and Culture Contributor

CA LY N N GW I N Issue Model

CA M F E H R

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CONTRIBUTORS

LENNSEY HANCHEY Issue Model

T Y H OWA R D Beauty Contributor

E M M A JA M E S Issue Model

L A R RY J E S T E R Reluctant Contributor

DÃ&#x2030; JA J O N E S Fashion Contributor and Stylist

M E RCY J O N E S Lifestyle Contributor

M A RC I K I D D E R Issue Model

DA N I E L L E L AG A R D E Issue Model

T E V I N L A N D RY Lifestyle and Photo Contributor

A M B E R L AV I O L E T T E Culture and Photo Contributor

L AY D E N L E W I S Teen Contributor

A B BY M A N U E L Makeup Artist

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C.J. M I R A N DA Lifestyle Contributor

K AY L A M O RG A N Vegan Food Contributor

PE Y TO N N O R T H Issue Model

RYA N PAC K Issue Model

L AU R E N PA R ROT T Issue Model

LO R A H P O RC H E Photo Contributor

JA E LY N PU R N E L L Issue Model

TI A R A PU R N E L L Financial Health Contributor

RO M A N Q U I N N Health Contributor

T R I S TA N R E I D Lifestyle Contributor

K A IT LY N ROT H K A M Issue Model

K A R E N K . S C OT T Inspirational Contributor

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CONTRIBUTORS

L AY N E E S I M O N E O U X Teen Contributor

SARA SIMONEOUX Inspirational Contributor

C H R I S TI N A S T E WA R T Issue Model

A L A N A VO O R H I E S Fashion Contributor & Stylist

S AVA N N A H WA L L Issue Model

CAY D E N WA L L S Teen Contributor

S E LI N A WAT S O N Food Contributor

A N G E L WAT T S Home and DIY Contributor

Y V E T T E W H IT TI N GTO N Health and Food Contributor

WA LT E R W I L LI A M S Issue Model

K I RS T E N W I N B U S H Home Contributor

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B E AU T Y

FASHION HEALTH FOOD INSPIRE LIFESTYLE CULTURE HOME GARDEN

guilt-free “me time” Alexis Jester

verybody, despite gender or identity, loves to feel pampered! We all deserve at least a few minutes of selfcare to unwind and feel a little love. This issue, Modern Grace wanted to try something a bit different. Instead of only makeup reviews, we wanted to treat the models to a mini spa day! Something as simple as a mask and manicure can really change the trajectory of your week! Every time you see your freshly painted nails, or feel that baby-smooth skin, it’s a reminder to take a deep breath, relax, and look forward to your “me time.” We try to use cruelty-free items (no animal testing) as much as possible. It may take a little bit of effort in our personal life; however it comes with a clear conscience. There are simple ways to check! One way is the Cruelty-Cutter app, just give things at the store a quick scan (and be surprised at the results). Simple as that. So when you have some time to pamper yourself and unwind, it can be totally guilt free! NAILS China Glaze Jordana Wet n Wild

MASKS Freeman SpaScriptions Sand and Sky

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Freeman Cleansing Apple Cider Vinegar Clay Mask + Scrub

Freeman Feeling Beautiful Deep Clearing Seaweed + Sea Salt Mud Mask Scrub Spascriptions Age Defying Metallic Collagen + CoQ10 + Hyaluronic Acid Mask

Spascriptions Glowing Metallic Gold + Manuka Honey + Royal Jelly Mask

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Freeman Purifying Avocado + Oatmeal Clay Mask

Spascriptions Purifying Metallic Charcoal+ Volcanic Ash + Kaolin Clay Mask

Freeman Pore Clearing Volcanic Ash Peel-off Gel Mask for Men

Freeman Anti-Stress Dead Sea Minerals Clay Mask

PHOTOS: ALEXIS JESTER & LORAH PORCHE PHOTOGRAPHY

Freeman Deep Clearing Manuka Honey + Tea Tree Oil Clay Mask + Cleanser

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FA S H I O N

BEAUTY HEALTH FOOD INSPIRE LIFESTYLE CULTURE HOME GARDEN

Tips for Finding Great Deals Nicole Brice

Finding popular brands at phenomenal prices takes time. Don’t rush it. You need to have a gameplan of all the discount retailers/shops you want to peruse along with specifics on what you are looking for prior to starting your quest.

3 4

When shopping for items in thrift stores or stores like TJ Maxx or Marshall’s, this can be a bit of a scavenger hunt. Be prepared to spend some time going through those racks. The same applies for online shopping, too. Set aside time to find what you’re looking for.

It is a marathon to find the really good deals. Blink and they’ll be gone. If you see something, jump on it before someone else can. If you second guess yourself, it won’t be there tomorrow.

When buying items second hand, especially from Ebay or The Real Real, know that you need to zoom in and look at every aspect of the article of clothing as well as reading the description thoroughly. Sellers will disclose any imperfections in the garments and you want to make sure you pay close attention so you’re not blindsided when your item arrives. The Real Real does allow you to return certain items and Ebay does have a money back guarantee, but still pay attention to the small details.

For the sites you know have good deals, be sure to check them and check them often. You could be randomly sitting at the kitchen table eating breakfast and stumble upon a pair brand new pair of Gucci pumps in your size, at an incredible price, when you least expect it.

Know your designers! Know how to spot the authentic items. This mainly applies to thrift store purchases and Ebay. The bigger chain discount retailers always have authentic items as does The Real Real.

Have fun with it and enjoy the quest! You never know what you’ll find. Best of luck! MODERN GRACE

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how to survive the louisiana heat Alana Voorhies /akvoorhies

It’s official. It’s getting hot and humid here in Louisiana and if you’re anything like me, you are less than excited to hang up your favorite leather jacket. But just because its getting hot, doesn’t mean we have to forfeit chic for comfort! We have crawfish boils, barbeques, engagement parties and tailgates to attend and we want to look our best, while keeping our cool. This is why choosing the right fabric is so important. Linen, chambray and cotton are our best friends in these warmer months and are super easy to work into our wardrobe. PHOTOS: CINDY DO PHOTOGRAPHY

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LINEN Linen is magical. This material quickly absorbs and releases your sweat, keeping you cool while keeping sweat stains away.

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COTTON We probably all know by now that cotton is the queen of all fabrics. It is easy to care for, versatile and notably breathable from day to night.

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CHAMBRAY Chambray is denim’s lightweight cousin. It is perfect for those of us who want to wear denim all year long but can’t stand it in the heat.

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PRO TIP: Accessorize with a fun handbag or hat to spruce up your ultra comfy spring or summer outfit!

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PRO TIP: Throw on a sheer, lightweight kimono for some added color and texture!

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It’s a Thing

teen

s w e i v e R k o Bo

Laynee Simoneaux

Cam Fehr

Before I Fall is my favorite book ever. I fell into the plot from the first page. I would take any moment I could to read a few more pages. The story has mature elements that are for older teens, rather than younger, so be aware of that before buying. I related to Samantha as she tried her best to fit in with these “friends” of hers. Sam had to go through the same day, on repeat, until she could fix what had to be done. In the end she realized that kindness and forgiveness can stop the loop of toxic relationships and save someone's life. Lindsay, Elody, and Ally (Sam’s popular friends) were these realistic mean girls who kept on the plastic face, but the author showed us how the masks dropped and we got to see how popularity can hurt. The story did have some slow points since it’s a repeat day, however ended up leaving me with the feeling that I want to be kind to everyone and gave me a sense of how important just one word can change a life. It promotes the idea of second chances, even to people who don’t deserve it. I would give this book a 4½ stars out of 5.

Throughout The Summer Series, there was always something going on and I could barely put them down. In the book, the narrator was the main character, Belly, but every few chapters, they would switch the narrator to another main character depending on what was going on in the situation. I loved this spin on it because it gave me a better understanding of how others felt in the current situation. In the novels, the main character is always stuck in some type of drama. Considering the age I am at, I felt like I understood the book more because I could relate to it so much. Towards the end of the series, there were a lot of hostile characters and it made me very anxious. Every book left you on a cliffhanger, making you assume many different endings, but in the end, I was shocked, but also happy. I would give this series a 5. I absolutely loved the series and loved how it kept me on the edge of my seat. I was sad, happy, angry, anxious, and confused all at the same time, but in a good way and I loved that about the books. MODERN GRACE

s w e i v e R p u Make

"one of the best"

Cam Fehr

Morphe Fluidity Full-Coverage Foundation I was curious when I saw the new Morphe foundation was out. The packaging is very modern, which I love! The color match and the formula are both perfect on my skin. I was very happy to see the wide shade range while looking for my color. Couldn’t ask for a more perfect foundation!

Laynee Simoneaux

"extreme howevleyr"soft,

Yes To Tomatoes Detoxifying Charcoal SnapMASK Stick This face mask is a charcoal wash-off mask. I like the packaging because it is a stick; therefore you are not wasting any product because you simply just rub it on. I chose this product because I’ve heard that charcoal masks work great. But it can hurt if your skin is sensitive. The product made my skin extremely soft, however it also made it dry, so it may not be best for all skin types. My skin is oily around my T-zone with a few dry patches around my nose and chin. 28

MODERN GRACE

" t c e f r e p "

Physicians Formula Butter Bronzer Since Summer is coming up, I wanted to achieve a sun-kissed look. I had heard of The Butter Bronzer and wanted to see if it was worth the hype. It was so blendable and looked so natural. I enjoyed the strong coconut scent, but if you are sensitive to smells I wouldn't suggest it. This one of the best bronzers I've used.

NYX Honey Dew Me Up Primer This primer will give your skin a “dewy” look. I like the packaging because of the container it is stored in. I also like the applicator for the primer. I chose this product over others because it has little “gold flakes” in it and a friend has the same one and really liked it. I like how the product looked on my skin because it did as expected and gave off a “dewy” look. I did not like the fact that it kind of irritated my skin, so it may not be good for all skin types. I have very sensitive skin so most moisturizers and primers do tend to irritate easily.

"it lmooakzeding" a

L’oréal Voluminous Lash Paradise Mascara The mascara is used to give volume to your lashes. The packaging looks good, but after a week or two of using it, the gold label at the top started fading. I chose this product because I have seen several friends use it and it looked amazing on them. The product performed very well on me and made my very long lashes look even longer. My favorite attribute is the applicator because I personally love thick brushes for mascara. One drawback was it tended to clump up sometimes on my eyelashes.

Recipes Layden Lewis

Louisiana Pecan Pie • • • • •

4 eggs ¼ teaspoon salt ¼ cup melted butter 1 ¼ cups light corn syrup 1 ¼ cups firmly packed dark brown sugar • 1 teaspoon vanilla extract • 1 unbaked graham pie shell • 1 cup pecan halves 1. Beat eggs with a wire whisk or fork. 2. Add salt, butter, corn syrup, brown sugar and vanilla. Mix well. 3. Pour mixture into pastry shell. 4. Arrange pecans neatly on top. 5. Bake at 350° for 45-50 minutes. Calories: 304 per serving (8 pieces)

American Lasagna • • • • • • •

2 pounds ground meat 1 onion 1 box lasagna noodles 1 jar spaghetti sauce 16 oz mozzarella cheese 1 pound American cheese (slices) Seasonings: salt, garlic salt, Garlic powder, Italian seasoning

1. Boil noodles until soft, drain and pour cold water over top. 2. Brown ground meat and add chopped onions. Stir until clear. 3. Add spaghetti sauce and seasonings. 4. In a 14.5x11 pan, put a little sauce at bottom and a layer of noodles. 5. Layer with American cheese, mozzarella, and meat sauce. 6. Repeat for another layer and end with a layer of noodles. 7. Sprinkle cheeses on top. 8. Bake for 40 minutes at 375°. Calories: 448 per serving (9 servings)

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H E A LT H

BEAUTY FASHION FOOD INSPIRE LIFESTYLE CULTURE HOME GARDEN

new beginnings

ow that Spring is here, it’s a perfect time to consider positive new habits that we can add to our lives. Perhaps a new daily yoga or meditation practice to help us feel our best or even a new skill that we’ve always wanted to try, like, music or learning a new language. While any new practice can be both beneficial and exciting, it can often be difficult to find the time each day to consistently dedicate to our new endeavor. This often prevents us from sticking with our new practice long enough for it to become a habit. The best of intentions can only carry us so far without a practical strategy to achieve our goals. This is where two of my favorite little brain hacks can save the day. First, enter the Two Minute Rule. Based off of

the idea that a habit must exist before it can be optimized, the Two Minute Rule is as simple as it sounds: Dedicate two minutes at least once a day to your new practice. This may not sound like much but a personal goal of doing two minutes a day of your new activity is much more realistic than trying to carve out a much larger block of time from your already busy schedule. Two minutes of yoga could easily be done after stepping out of bed or two minutes of meditation can be accomplished while simply waiting for your morning coffee to brew. Also, there’s no rule that you can’t repeat your two minutes again or later in the day, if life permits. Second (and this is important!) you must track your success somehow. I personally keep a dry erase calendar on my refrigerator and cross out each

T.J. Bruner

day that I successfully complete the new habit that I’m currently working on. Having a visible measure of success, day after day helps to make a fun little game of creating a new habit while also stimulating the reward center in your brain, an absolute necessity in the formation of any habit. The legendary Jerry Seinfeld credits this technique for his success as a writer and comedian earning the nickname for this method “The Seinfeld Strategy.” Any method of tracking is likely to be fine but you absolutely must track your success. So as you're preparing to “spring” into your new practice (sorry, couldn't help it), put a little thought into how these simple principles can help turn your goals into positive new habits. We can't wait to hear your success! MODERN GRACE

fresh food, fresh start Roman Quinn

hat if I told you that there is a natural way to cure obesity and depression and boost your overall health in general? Living is about learning; therefore practicing a well-planned diet* will help you learn a better, healthier way of life. By being more aware of what you are putting into your body, you will gain control of your overall health. After youâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;ve achieved your health goals, typically you continue to live healthy AND share your experiences with others. I started sharing my journey within the Yoga** and Acroyoga community. I enjoy Yoga; because it helps your mind and body connect in a natural meditative state. Many of us can feel unmotivated, unloved, and depressed. Before I went vegan, I weighed 240 pounds and I hated the person I saw in the mirror every day. I began to do research and began eating fresh fruits and veggies daily instead of snacks and candy. I realized in order to achieve weight loss goals, and to recover from depression, I had to focus on myself and develop self-worth. To sum it all up, remember to always keep an open mind, try new things and never give up. You're in control of your own life and happiness. *Disclaimer: Research and consult a physician before attempting a change in diet or exercise routine. **Some of these poses are advanced poses.

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PHOTOS: ALEXIS JESTER

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“I'm Okay” Yvette Whittington

ver the years I’ve asked myself several questions that I can only assume most people suffering with a mental disorder have asked as well. Will I ever be normal? Will I ever feel like the happy people I see? Is there any way to calm the storm that rages in my mind? Can others see the struggle I sometimes have with what I know makes sense and what my mind thinks makes sense? All of these and more are questions I ask myself most days. When your mind is your own worst enemy it’s hard to separate yourself, because it’s you against you. Mental illness carries a heavy stigma. So, when someone would ask me if I was okay, I would say “I’m okay” to pacify them, while inside I was screaming no

I’m “not okay. It takes courage to push through those times when others don’t understand and simply say “get over it.” After being diagnosed with bi-polar, came fear, but also relief. I knew what I was working with and I knew I couldn’t just get over it, the toxic relationships, the self-loathing and all the years I had wasted I couldn’t get back, but I knew I was finally on the path to being as close to what others consider “normal” as I had ever been. Unfortunately, what drives many, including me, to the psychiatrist from the start is hitting rock bottom. The dark thoughts, the constant battle in my head, the sleepless nights, the analyzation of everything in my life that always ended

up with the negative thoughts. I remember having my first bad day on the medication, it was probably four or five weeks after feeling great, and that day I felt so defeated. This couldn’t be happening again could it? I made an appointment with my psychiatrist that same day. She explained to me that the medicine will only take you so far. You have to do the rest. She taught me some coping skills and although I still have those days, I’ve learned to live with and accept them because I know they will end. Although this disorder is something I will live with until my last breath, I am thankful for my husband and family. It’s not always easy, but now when I say “I’m okay,” I mean it.

IF YOU ARE SEEKING HELP FOR YOURSELF OR A LOVED ONE STRUGGLING WITH ALCOHOL OR SUBSTANCE USE ISSUES AND WISH TO EXPLORE TREATMENT OPTIONS PROVIDED BY AMERICAN ADDICTION CENTERS, INC. (AAC), PLEASE CONTACT OUR HELPLINE. CALL 1-866-306-3026 MODERN GRACE

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FOOD

BEAUTY FASHION HEALTH INSPIRE LIFESTYLE CULTURE HOME GARDEN

Crawfish Pie • • • • • • • • •

1 stick butter 3½ cups seasoning blend 1½ tsp salt 1/2 tsp black pepper 1/2 tsp cayenne pepper 1 Tbsp garlic powder 1/2 cup all-purpose flour 1 tsp chopped parsley 1 cup diced tomatoes (Creole only; omit if Cajun) • 1 lbs peeled crawfish tails • 2 pack of frozen readymade pie crust (4 layers)

1. Preheat the oven to 400°. 2. Remove pie crust and lay out to thaw. 3. Heat butter in a large pot over medium heat. Add seasoning blend, salt, black pepper, cayenne, and garlic powder. Cook for approx. 6 mins until onions are transparent. 4. Add flour, stirring constantly and cook for 6 mins. 5. Add tomatoes (for Creole only) and parsley and cook for 5 mins. 6. Stir in crawfish tails, stirring occasionally, cook for about 8 mins. 7. Lightly dust 2 pie pans with flour and lay out one pie crust layer in each, being sure to press slightly around rim of pans. Fill crust about 2/3 with crawfish filling. 8. Place second layer on top of each pan and use a fork to press rims around the pan together. 9. Bake for 30 mins. 10. Remove pies from oven and let cool 15 mins before serving.

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Louisiana Barbecue Shrimp • • • • • • •

1 lb jumbo shrimp 11/2 Tbsp lemon juice 1/2 cup Worcestershire sauce 1 tsp minced garlic 1 tsp ground black pepper 2 tsp Louisiana Creole seasoning 2 sticks unsalted butter

1. 2. 3. 4. 5.

In large skillet combine all ingredients except butter. Cook on medium-high until shrimp turn pink, approx. 1 1/2 mins. Reduce heat to medium and add butter in cuts. Pour all into bowl or on a raised sided platter. Serve with bread for dipping up barbecue sauce

Fried Pickles • • • • • • • • • •

11/2 cups dill pickle slices 1 egg, whisked with 1/2 Tbsp water 1/2 Tbsp Cajun seasoning ¼ Tbsp black pepper 1/4 cup breadcrumbs 1/4 cup flour 1/3 cup parmesan 1/2 tsp garlic powder Dash of salt Remoulade sauce for dipping

Remoulade Sauce • • • • • • • •

13/4 cups mayonnaise 1/4 cup Creole mustard 11/4 Tbsp paprika 2 tsp Creole seasoning 1 tsp pickle juice 11/2 tsp Tabasco 11/2 tsp horseradish 1 tsp minced garlic

1. Mix all together. 2. Refrigerate and serve well-chilled.

Air Fryer: 1. Pat dry pickle chips with paper towel. 2. Stir together breadcrumbs, flour, parmesan, Cajun seasoning, pepper, and garlic powder in a medium-sized bowl. 3. Dip pickle slices egg mixture, then in breadcrumb/flour mixture. 4. Place in air fryer and bake 9 mins at the highest temperature. 5. Dash with salt and serve immediately with Remoulade sauce for dipping.

Stove Top: 1. Pat dry pickle chips with paper towel. 2. Heat 11/2 inches vegetable oil in a pot over medium-high heat. 3. Mix breadcrumbs, flour, Cajun seasoning, black pepper, parmesan, and egg mixture in a large bowl until smooth. 4. Pour flour mixture into a gallon size Ziplock bag and add half of the pickles. Seal and toss to coat. 5. Add to the oil one at a time and fry until golden brown, approx. 2 minutes 6. Remove with a fryer spoon and drain on paper towels. 7. Repeat with remaining pickles. 8. Dash with salt and serve immediately, with Remoulade sauce on the side for dipping. 38

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Red Beans and Rice • • • • • • •

1 package of kidney beans 6 cups water 1/2 tsp salt 1/2 tsp pepper 1/2 tsp Tony Chachere's 1 Tbsp minced garlic 1 lb meat, preferably sausage

1. 2. 3. 4.

Wash beans well. Put onto boil with lots of water Add salt, pepper, Tony’s, and garlic to taste. Bring to a boil, lower to simmer, cover and cook for a few hours. Stir occasionally and add HOT water if needed. The secret to good red beans is to cook them long enough. If you wash the night before and soak them overnight (cook them in the same water you soak them in) they will cook quicker. When beans are almost done, add cooked sausage or chopped ham. Serve over a steaming bed of rice.

5. 6.

7. 8.

Nelda Arnold

Roast Beef with Vegetables • • • • • • • •

1 Tbsp vegetable oil 3 lb chuck roast 2/3 cup water or beef broth 1 packet McCormick Bag'n Season Pot Roast Seasoning 1 packet Au jus gravy mix Small bag of carrots (baby carrots are best) Bag of small potatoes 1 large onion cut into fours

1. Preheat oven to 350°. 2. In a pan, add vegetable oil and cook roast on medium high heat until all sides are browned. 3. Mix water or broth, and both seasoning packets together. 4. Place roast, vegetables, and seasoning mixture in the bag provided in the Pot Roast seasoning packet and use tie to close loosely. Cut 2 or 3 small holes in top of bag for steam to escape. 5. Place bag on its side (tie facing slightly upward) in a deep pan and bake in oven for 2 to 21/2 hours. MODERN GRACE

Easy and Delicious Chocolate Banana Cake • • • • • •

1 box chocolate cake mix 1/3 cup oil 3 eggs 1 cup water 3 bananas mashed Chocolate slivers or sprinkles

1. 2. 3. 4. 5.

Preheat oven to 350°. Grease and flour a 9×13 pan. Combine cake mix, oil, eggs, and water and fold in bananas. Bake approx. 35 minutes or until a toothpick comes out clean. Cool completely, sprinkle with chocolate slivers and place on plate with a couple of slices of banana.

Nelda Arnold

Lemon Icebox Pie

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• • • • •

1 can sweetened condensed milk 2 egg yolks 3 lemons, squeezed Graham cracker crust ½ bowl Cool Whip

1. 2. 3. 4.

Beat milk, egg yolks, and lemon juice. Fold in Cool Whip. Pour into crust. Chill overnight.

Selina Watson

Velma Joy's Banana Pudding • 3 or 4 eggs • 1 cup sugar • 2 heaping Tbsp all-purpose flour or cornstarch • 3 cups milk • 1 to 1 ½ tsp. vanilla extract • 2 Tbsp butter (optional) • 1 bag of vanilla wafers • 4 or 5 bananas

Yvette Whittington

1. Line a bowl or pan with vanilla wafers. Set aside. 2. Beat eggs with mixer. 3. Add sugar, flour (or cornstarch), and milk. Cook in a heavy pot on medium heat until it thickens, stirring and scraping the bottom constantly. 4. Take pot off heat and add vanilla extract (and butter, if you choose). Stir until vanilla extract is blended in (and butter is completely melted, if used). 5. Peel and slice bananas. Put a layer on top of the vanilla wafers and pour or spoon pudding on top. Continue layering until all pudding is used. 6. Crush a few wafers and sprinkle on top. 7. Refrigerate and cover when cool. *Aunt Linda and I like it best with a piece of cold fried chicken. Sunday dinners with Mother’s fried chicken, potato salad, homemade biscuits, and banana pudding are special memories from our childhood.

Easiest Apple Pie Ever We knew Apple Pie was one of the must have recipes in the Spring issue! However, after trying five different recipes, many hours and variations, we decided the easiest Apple Pie recipe is to buy it from a local bakery or market where they make them fresh. If any readers truly have an easy to make Apple Pie recipe, please email us at: moderngracemag@cox.net

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Italian Pasta Salad

Eggless Quiche Bites • • • • • • • • • •

1½ cups of garbanzo bean flour 2 cups water ½ bag of frozen peppers and onions 1 package of Light Life ground crumbles 2 Tbsp fennel 1 Tbsp garlic powder Salt to taste Pepper to taste 3 handfuls of spinach Sriracha

Kayla Morgan /aggresive_arugula

1. Sautée peppers, onions and meat crumbles in a pan with a drizzle of olive oil. Add seasonings until veggies and meat crumbles have browned a little. Add spinach and finish sautéing until spinach has wilted. 2. In a mixing bowl add flour and water. Whisk together until there are no clumps, then add veggie and meat combo. 3. Oil a muffin pan and scoop mixture into pan. 4. Bake in oven at 375° for 15-20 min or until batter is firm. 5. Drizzle with sriracha (optional). 42

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• • • • • • • • • • • • • •

1 green pepper 1 red pepper 1 orange pepper 1 cucumber 1 red onion 1 cup of shredded carrots 1 can of black olives 1 cup of Italian dressing 1 cup of halved cherry tomatoes 1 can of sliced hearts of palm 3 Tbsp Italian seasoning 1 package of pasta 1-2 cups vegan feta cheese (optional) 1 cup vegan pepperoni (optional)

1. 2. 3. 4.

Boil pasta according to the box instructions. Cut up peppers, cucumber, onion, tomatoes, and hearts of palm. When pasta has cooled off, add all ingredients, and stir. Set in refrigerator to chill for 2 hours.

Kayla Morgan /aggresive_arugula

Vegan Steak • 1/4 tsp black pepper Steak • 1 cup drained chickpeas • 1 Tbsp dijon mustard Kayla Morgan • 1/4 tsp liquid smoke • 1/4 cup nutritional yeast /aggresive_arugula • 1/2 cup vegetable stock • 1 tsp garlic powder • 13/4 cups Vital Wheat Gluten • 1 tsp onion powder Marinade • 1/4 tsp cumin • 1/4 tsp coriander powder • 1/4 cup Braggs Liquid Amino Acid • 1/2 tsp oregano • 1 tsp paprika • 2 Tbsp Braggs Liquid • 3 Tbsp brown sugar Amino Acid • 2 Tbsp tomato paste • 1/2 cup tomato paste • 1/8 tsp liquid smoke • 1 tsp paprika 1. Combine chickpeas, nutritional yeast, garlic powder, onion powder, cumin, coriander powder, oregano, amino acid, tomato paste, paprika, black pepper, dijon mustard, liquid smoke and vegetable stock in a food processor until well-mixed. 2. Transfer to a mixing bowl and add vital wheat gluten. Stir in with a spoon briefly and then mix into a dough with your hands. Knead for 2 minutes. 3. Flatten out the “dough” and cut into 4 equal-sized steaks. Use a potato masher or spatula to flatten the steaks further. 4. Wrap the steaks individually in foil and steam for 25-30 minutes. 5. While steaks are steaming, prepare marinade by whisking all ingredients in a bowl until blended. 6. Unwrap steaks and place into a deep dish. Pour marinade over top and evenly brush. Turn steaks over in marinade a few times. 7. Heat a pan with olive oil and fry steaks, flipping regularly while brushing marinade on until steaks are browned and caramelized.

Watermelon Salad • • • •

1 Watermelon 1 Lime A few bunches of fresh mint Vegan feta cheese (optional)

Kayla Morgan /aggresive_arugula

1. Slice watermelon. 2. Top watermelon with vegan feta cheese, mint, and fresh lime juice.

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INSPIRE

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the bookcase

’m an avoider. It’s in my DNA. I stuff things down and move on, because there’s never time to dwell on or drown in sadness. This is both my greatest strength and weakness—because life is TOUGH. I lost my grandparents, who adopted and raised me, at the age of 18 and 20. I grieved in the moment and then placed it on a shelf—my mental bookcase—and moved on. I became detached in college and lost my way for a while. I recovered, and then in the span of a few years my family experienced a number of tragedies. I lost immediate family members to cancer, drowning, a car accident, a murder-suicide, and my mom to a massive heart attack at forty-seven. I kept allowing myself to grieve only in the moment and quickly pack these losses away. My bookcase became full—there was no room left to stuff things down. Long-bottled-up emotions and grief exploded into my first panic attack and a trip to the ER with what I was certain was a heart attack, even though I was in my early-to-mid twenties. I was married with two small babies, and I was broken—because I never allowed myself to really grieve. I didn’t have time. I had school, then work, and then a family on top of it. There was always too much to do—I never

Sara Simoneaux

felt like I had the “luxury” to succumb to sadness. Here’s what I learned. Shoving things down is a temporary solution, because there’s only so much space before you break. Whether you address things in the moment or you wait five years until your bookcase overflows and crashes down on you, you will at some point have to face all of the hard stuff. I learned to have faith and let go of things beyond my control. I learned that grief becomes heavier the longer you carry it. I learned that forgiveness is a prerequisite to peace. I learned that family isn’t always blood, and blood isn’t always family. I learned that the opinions of others cannot dictate my truth. I learned to fill my bookcase with things that I am thankful for and surround myself with people who bring joy. I learned to focus on all that I have instead of all that’s been lost. I learned to work through the hard stuff instead of avoiding it. I learned to breathe and have faith that no matter the struggle, my God is bigger. Of course I still struggle, but that is life. I still feel anxious, sad, or overwhelmed at times. But now I make a conscious effort to choose gratitude over despair, forgiveness over grudges, and faith over worry. Slowly but surely, I am finding my way.

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Make a Choice L

Karen K. Scott

ife has a way of molding you into the person you’re truly meant to be. Every problem that occurs in your life is simply a test. The tricky thing about life is you have until your time expires to get it right. A couple weeks of ago I was in a mentoring session. There was a group of youth who were either living in foster care, or being raised by their grandparents. None of these kids had the ideal living situation. We’re talking about at-risk, impoverished youth. They were given a fill-in-the-blank poem titled I Am Poem. It was so encouraging to see these young people think highly of themselves. One young man wrote I am loving and special. I wonder if I’ll be a father one day. I hear children laughing. I see a house in a nice neighborhood. I want to help people in need. These children have been dealing with problems out of their control, some homeless at times, and yet they still find a way to hope for a brighter future. How many times has life dealt you a bad hand, a bad day, and you’ve chosen to handle it negatively? Each situation you face is molding you into the person you’re meant to be. The crazy thing is until you pass the test, you’ll keep repeating the lesson. Problems will happen. You may feel like a failure at times. However, the only true failure is giving up. You have to keep at it and hold yourself accountable to you and no one else. The young man who was reading his

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poem later shared that he would not be a result of his parents’ bad decisions. He would be a product of his decision to live his life to the best of his ability. Talk about encouraging! Speaking things into existence. Speaking positive things into your life. Having a positive attitude. These are all tools used to overcome. This young man decided to conquer his problems. This young man knows that his attitude toward life is a direct reflection of his outcome. For the Bible says God will bless you if you don’t give up when your faith is being tested. Never let your problems define you, let them mold you into being a better human, wife, husband, mother, father, brother, sister, or friend. The key to conquering your problems is to share them, remember you’re never alone. Often, we let pride or fear keep us in solitude. Reach out to someone and ask for help. There is a freeing spirit in asking for help. Not only are you being vulnerable, you’re allowing someone else to bless you, help you with your need. This could be as simple as a word of encouragement, reassurance, direction, or a testimony. You could be a blessing by letting someone bless you. Blessed is the man that endureth temptation: for when he is tried, he shall receive the crown of life, which the lord hath promised to them that love him. James 1:12

seasons change

on’t you just love spring! The days are longer, the sun is brighter, and the smell of fresh cut grass is in the air! As the old saying goes, spring is in the air! There always seems to be a sense of anticipation and excitement with winter finally being behind, we look forward to spring ahead of us! New wild flowers in the ditches and new leaves on the trees! From baby birds learning to fly, to pastures filled with baby calves running behind their mommas! There is a newness around every corner! It’s the beautiful way nature reminds us that with every new season comes new changes and new life. Just like the seasons change, so do the seasons we walk through in our personal lives. We leave one season behind us as we make our way into a new season of life. One thing life has taught me is that no matter what season I may be walking through, it will not last forever! We all walk through both good and bad seasons throughout life. When you are walking through a good season, it is hard to imagine life getting any better than this!

Kristi Williams-Fontenot

Life seems to just fall into place! But what about those seasons where life seems to be falling out of place so quickly you feel like it is going to swallow you whole. I know I have had seasons where I feel helpless and hopeless at the same time. Where nothing I do ever feels like it is enough, and my life seems to be crashing down around me. It can truly feel as if I am walking a tightrope while trying to juggle the balls of life at the same time. Let me tell you… I am not athletic in the least bit! I promise you I have fallen off that tightrope and dropped those balls more times than I can even count! To tell you the truth, some seasons are just flat out HARD! Pain is hard. Sorrow is hard. Struggle is hard. You may feel as if this season is never going to end! I can assure you this: IT WILL!! Just like winter turns into spring, so will one season of life turn into another. I think God allows us these seasons of pain to grow us and make us stronger in Him. He wants us to turn to Him and trust Him through these difficult times. He will always make something beautiful and new out of our

pain. It may be something as simple as finding joy in your children’s laughter after they have fought off an illness, or getting the opportunity to talk with an old friend who is there for you as you grieve the loss of a loved one. No matter what you are walking through, know that it is but a season and that something beautiful will come from it. Just like the newness of spring, God will lead you out of the wilderness and into something new! If the season you are in is one of pain, sorrow or struggle, rest assured that a new season is ahead! As Winnie the Pooh once said, “I always get to where I’m going by walking away from where I’ve been.” Don’t spend time focusing on the past! God has equipped you to do great things! Let this season be the beginning of doing just that! “Forget the former things; do not dwell on the past. See, I am doing a new thing! Now it springs up; do you not perceive it? I am making a way in the wilderness and streams in the wasteland.” Isaiah 43:18-19 MODERN GRACE

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Nature's Backdrop

LOCATION: EDGENS FAMILY HOME

pringtime in Louisiana means tons and tons of beautiful flowers, especially wildflowers! For low-budget, DIY spring portraits, simply look around the yard for backdrops. It is easier than you’d think to find high quality props and backgrounds for photos. Wooden deck? Random wildflowers? Solid brick walls? Local or public ponds? PERFECT! If you crop out background items like cars, air units, wires,

etc. it adds that “professional” element to your photos! Make a game out of picking as many wildflowers as possible so that you and/or the kids can lay them out in a small patch of the yard to look like a super lush and colorful field. Don’t be afraid to turn up your saturation just a LITTLE bit to add those pops of Spring color. And remember, HAVE FUN! MODERN GRACE

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the self esteem project

PHOTOS: ADRIANA PORTRAITS /ADRIANAPORTRAITSTUDIO

ecently, a close friend sent me a text that said “Have you heard of this??... It screams your name! Love it!” It included a link that was titled THE SELF ESTEEM PROJECT. This friend knows that I am all about boasting self-esteem and encouraging others, but I have to admit I was automatically leery. I’ve seen many projects and campaigns over the years that targeted women’s selfesteem by using phrases such as: “Be you,” “Go natural,” “Embrace yourself.” And while all of those are great, I always thought they lacked something for me. What did they lack? Well, easily they missed my bottom line: I’m not going to go all natural. I’m a dress-in-a-businesssuit-every-day kind of person. Not because I was “programmed” or “conditioned” to do that, it is simply my style. I have long, blonde, curly hair that I’ve adapted through the years; however, it basically stays the same style. And I love it. Funny thing is, my hair is naturally straight as a board. Not long ago, one post on social media that was shared over one hundred and thirty thousand times said something along the lines of the mothers that actually put their household first are the ones who aren’t always dressed, have their nails done, and have the latest phone. Those are the real women. My first thought was, did I just read that wrong? MODERN GRACE

My response: not truth. I had my nails done, hair done, latest phone, and I am a real woman who put my kids and household first. We should be empowering women, ALL WOMEN, because we’re all real! I made it a point to let my kids know that I was valuable enough to take time for myself also. What this post should’ve said is: Women who don’t have their nails done, hair fixed, and the latest phone are no less perfect than the ones who do! We’re all real women who fight the good fight. So again, when I read the title to the link THE SELF ESTEEM PROJECT, I was leery. Quickly, after clicking into it, I realized this wasn’t going to be the same old story. A Louisiana-based photographer, Adriana Harangus Carrier of Adriana Portraits, started the project to photograph a THOUSAND young girls and “provide them with incredible, celebrity style images that will uplift them and show them that they, too, can be just as gorgeous as the girls on the cover of magazines.” She went on to say on the site,

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“I believe this age range is a critical time in the life of a young girl… This is the age when she will face the most criticism from her peers…” I knew then that I had to meet Adriana. When I first arrived at Adriana Portraits and opened the door, I was met with a soothing scent. It wasn’t overpowering, just warm and soothing. The studio is a classic, open loft style with dark wood flooring and relaxed seating. The entire business screams out for you to simply be comfortable. Once she started talking, her passion for the project poured out of her. She said, “It’s very hard for women to admit to themselves, because we’ve been preached that self-esteem comes from the inside, and that’s good, but that self-esteem can be elevated by how we feel about ourselves physically. What young girls see more often are edited pictures of models looking glamorous. However, then they are told that it ‘doesn’t matter how you look,’ but it does. And there is always going to be a gap if we don’t bridge that with them. Girls are always going to compare themselves with what they see. So, I decided to do this; to

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take pictures of them, and make them look like the cover of a magazine and show them that yes, they are beautiful.” Her final words are what have stuck with me the most, “They are beautiful, and we all are.” Her heart is amazing and I am so thankful for the link that friend sent me. Adriana will be taking pictures of our female Teen Contributors soon, and I will include those in another issue! If you know a young girl between the ages of 7-14 years old who wants to get on the list for THE SELF ESTEEM PROJECT, please email Adriana Portraits: adrianaportraits@gmail.com.

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Abbye Falkner /abbyefalkner

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louisiana

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PHOTOS: LACI BRICE

Values and Views P

eople from Louisiana tend to pride themselves on the same core values: family, food, faith, and friendship. That’s what makes our state so special. Despite graphs, polls, and other “data” that rank our state the lowest in overall well-being (Yahoo-Finance) and highest in stress, somehow our ENTIRE state is as one community. If you move out-of-state, this is always home. Nothing ever fills that bootshaped hole that Louisiana leaves. If you travel around, somehow you always find yourself naturally attracted to people that you find later are other Louisianians. Something magic about our state is that

no matter how polarized we may feel at times, as a state, we are a family. We are a community. Nothing means more to us than our core values... and our amazing views. Sometimes, I think we take for granted how incredibly breathtaking our home can be. We have sunsets that look like watercolor masterpieces. We have Driskill Mountain, Woodriff Falls, Tunica Hills, we have swamps and wetlands, we have major ports, growing metropolitan areas, and we even have our own city that never sleeps! How better to celebrate the beauty of being from Louisiana than to spend a day,

Alexis Jester

or a weekend, here in our own state. We have so many wonders to be found here; yet we are all racing to take a vacation out-of-state! Fairview-Riverside State Park is one of those magnificent gems. Only two miles east of Madisonville, along the Tchefuncte River, is about 100 acres of nature trails, campgrounds, forested wetlands, freshwater fishing, a boat launch, and sites that are awe inspiring. I think we all are guilty of forgetting that a vacation from stress doesn’t have to be a vacation away from our beautiful state. Thanks to Laci Brice for contributing these incredible photos! MODERN GRACE

SPORTSMANâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;S PARADISE CROSSROADS CAJUN COUNTRY PLANTATION COUNTRY GREATER NEW ORLEANS 66

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Louisiana Festivals

SPORTSMAN’S PARADISE • CROSSROADS • CAJUN COUNTRY • PLANTATION COUNTRY • GREATER NEW ORLEANS

New Iberia Azalea Trail Iberia Parish // April 14 Ponchatoula Strawberry Festival Ponchatoula // April 14 Baton Rouge Blues Festival Baton Rouge // April 14 French Quarter Festival New Orleans // April 14 The Original Downtown Lake Charles Crawfish Festival Lake Charles // April 14 Holiday in Dixie Shreveport // April 14 – 21 Jazz Yoga New Orleans & Journey into Yoga New Orleans // April 19

The first Annual Shreveport Stuffed Shrimp Festival Shreveport // April 27 SLIDELL’S CRAWFISH COOK-OFF Slidell // April 27 Angola Prison Spring Rodeo Angola // April 27 - 28th Kiwanis 5K Color Run and Pancake Festival Natchitoches // April 27 Louisiana Earth Day Baton Rouge // April 28 NOLA Crawfish Festival New Orleans // Apr 29 - May 1 Louisiana Pirate Festival Lake Charles // May 2 - May 5

Arts & Culture Experience 2019 Covington // April 20

Thibodaux Firemen’s Fair Thibodaux //May 2 - May 5

Lecompte Pie Festival Lecompte // TBA

May fest Leesville // May 3 - May 4

Festival International de Louisiane Lafayette // April 24-28

Breaux Bridge Crawfish Festival Association Breaux Bridge // May 3 - May 5

New Orleans Jazz & Heritage Festival New Orleans // April 25 - May 5th 34th Annual Étouffée Festival Arnaudville // April 26 2019 Shreveport BBQ Cook-off Shreveport, LA Shreveport // April 26 – 27

Mayhaw Festival Marion // May 3 - May 4 Gusher Days Festival Oil City // May 4 Le Grand Hoorah Festival Ville Platte // May 3 - May 10

2019 Louisiana Forest Festival Winnfield // April 26 - 27

Natchitoches Jazz R&B Festival Natchitoches // May 10 - May 11

Lockport Food Festival Raceland // April 26 – 28

Cochon de Lait Festival Mansura // May 9 - May 12

Shreveport Stuffed Shrimp Festival Shreveport // May 11 Old Metairie Crawfish Festival & Cookoff Metairie // May 11 Cruisin Cajun Country Cruise In New Iberia // May 15 - 18 Gonzales Jambalaya Festival Gonzales // May 17 - 19th La Bonne Terre Festival Houma // May 17 Louisiana Smoked Meat Festival Ville Platte // May 17 - 18 Mudbug Madness Festival Shreveport // May 24 - 26 2nd Annual Baton Rouge Soul Food Festival Baton Rouge // May 25 - May 26 Gheens Bon Mange’ Festival Gheens // June 7 Cajun Heritage Festival Larose // June 7 - 9 Sunflower Trail and Festival Gilliam // June 15 For more information on festivals and fairs in Louisiana, explore these websites: shreveport-bossier.org/event-overview natchitoches.com/annual-events-festivals lafayettetravel.com/events/festivals visitbatonrouge.com/events neworleans.com/things-to-do/festivals louisiana-destinations.com/louisiana-festivals-events-2019 louisianatravel.com MODERN GRACE

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Macrame' DIY Kirsten Winbush

1. 2. 3. 4.

Cut 12 strips of 6 ft rope. Tie all in a knot. Separate into 6 pairs. To each pair, tie basic double knot about an inch down from main knot. 5. Take one strand from each of two adjacent pairs and double knot together. 6. Lay the knots down in a star shape. 7. Twist each pair. 8. Tie another big knot with all strips. 9. Adjust plant within macramĂŠ. 10. Cut off any excess at the bottom of the plant. 11. Burn rope ends to prevent fraying. 12. Hang planter. MODERN GRACE

holiday dĂŠcor ideas Angel Watts /louisianafarmhouse

Decorating for the Spring helps us and our families get into the spirit of renewal!

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GARDEN

BEAUTY FASHION HEALTH FOOD INSPIRE LIFESTYLE CULTURE HOME/DIY

Succulents in Spring

Succulents in spring! They are ready to be cared for and they love to reproduce. With the warm weather you should start watering them twice a month and put them back outside. They are hearty yet you should always research different varieties. For example, Cacti love direct sunlight; aloe plants do not. And no matter if you have a green thumb or not, Succulents will thrive with simple care. Be careful not to overwater, and you should be good. While there are many parts to a garden that you can focus on this spring, we love succulents because you donâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;t have to own land to enjoy them.

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You are

NOT

alone.

On average, one person dies by suicide every 13 hours in Louisiana. In the United States average of 123 suicides per day. Average of 44,965 suicides a year. Only 1 in every 25 attempts, Which means that in America alone, 1,124,125 people attempt to commit suicide each year. Globally, 800,000 suicides every year, one every 40 seconds. Thought to be only 1 in every 20 attempts, Which means around the world 16,000,000 people attempt to commit suicide each year.

CALL THE NATIONAL SUICIDE PREVENTION HOTLINE: 800-273-TALK (8255) OR VISIT ONLINE: WWW.SUICIDEPREVENTIONLIFELINE.ORG info: American Foundation for Suicide Prevention, World Health Organization 76

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2019 SPRING

Articles inside

Seasons Change

Letter from Editor