July 2018 ruby

God Borrowed My Cell Phone

by Lisa J. Radcliff The Price of Freedom

by Norma C. Mezoe Ode to Summertime

by Cynthia Knisley

Create Your Own DIY Patriotic Blocks

by Donna Powell

RUBY Magazine

In This Issue of RUBY

Your voice, your story JULY, 2018 www.rubyforwomen.com

Betsy Ross: Patriots, Petticoats, and Providential History, Part 1

by Kathryn Ross

Summer has arrived with longer days, vacations, family time, and celebrating our nation’s birthday. In the July issue of RUBY magazine you will discover fun facts about our nation’s symbols, as well as a story about Betsy Ross and our first flag.

Patriotic crafts and poetry, along with a fun kids’ story and a bit of history about the Oregon Trail will offer a great opportunity to teach the children about our country.

We would love to have you join us in the RUBY community, now on Facebook, so it is really easy for you to connect with us. Here’s the link: https://www.facebook.com/rubyforwomen/ Hope to see you there!

Symbols of Freedom to Celebrate the Fourth of July

by Nina Newton

Teaching Kids about Independence

by Jehn Kubiak

Senior Editor: Nina Newton Editorial Assistant: Theresa Begin Feature Writers: Sharon L. Patterson, Norma C. Mezoe, Shara Bueler-Repka, Lisa J. Radcliff, Jehn Kubiak, Nancy Frantel, Se Johnson, Carol Peterson, Kathryn Ross, Donna Powell, Sharmelle Olson, Gloria Doty, Cynthia Knisley, Miriam Jacob, Krista Lynn Campbell

Knee High By the Fourth of July

by Gloria Doty

Credits and Copyrights All stories and articles are copyright by the authors.

All pictures and images are copyright by the authors and / or have been purchased, used by permission or are in the public domain. If any pictures or images have been used inadvertently, and they do not belong in this publication, please email us and we will immediately remove them.

Nothing in this issue of RUBY magazine may be reproduced, copied, or shared without the permission of the author.

Advertising information is available by contacting us at editor@rubyforwomen.com Questions? Email Nina @ editor@rubyforwomen.com RUBY magazine is published by CreativeLife All submission inquiries should be directed to: Nina Newton, Sr. Editor RUBY magazine editor@rubyforwomen.com

Creating beautiful designs and dĂŠcor for your graceful home

Visit Graceful Home Studio for inspirational, seasonal, and holiday home dĂŠcor items that will reflect the grace and joy of family life in your home.

Looking to the Future, Remembering the Past Handmade and refashioned garments and accessories from Tatters to Treasures

Don’t forget to visit

RUBY’S Reading Corner where you will find familyfriendly books for your whole family

The Magnolia Series

by Gloria Doty is available from RUBY’S Reading Corner Just released!

The Cougar and the Cowboy Book #1 in the Cowboy Dreaming Series

by Gloria Doty is now available from RUBY’S Reading Corner

How’s your summer reading list coming along?

The Art of Letting Go Nina Newton, Sr. Editor “What are you holding in your hands that you can’t let go?” I heard a recent sermon that asked this question. The conclusion was that we need to learn to hold everything that is in our hands loosely. This was a particularly poignant message as we had to “let go” of one of our friends from our church family just the other day. An unexpected relinquishment of a husband, father, grandfather, and great-grandfather who had been ill for quite some time, but things seemed to be getting better for him.

As I put my arms around his wife and she collapsed into broken sobs of despair, I realized again that one day we will all need to “let go” of everything we hold in our hands and in our hearts. If we have our God to hold on to, and know that He is holding on to us, we can walk through those times of “letting go” a bit easier . . . although it will always be a time of great pain and sorrow, but we are not without hope.

In the midst of our days on earth, in the face of loss, we will all journey through the valley of grief and agony of spirit. That is normal, and grief has its own time line. If we love deeply we will grieve deeply over the loss of those we hold dear to our hearts. I have heard, and experienced in my own small way, that “love becomes a wound that bleeds.” You know this is true if you have lost someone who is a part of your very being, your soul, and your self.

But we know from God’s Word that this life on earth is only temporary and that those who have believed and trusted the Lord Jesus Christ for forgiveness and salvation, will live eternally in His presence. There is coming a day when all tears shall be dried, there will be no more sorrow, no more pain, and no more death. But that is hard to imagine in our moments of deepest grief.

Today, I choose to focus on what God has given and not on what other people have taken away. I choose to hold tightly to His promises for restoration, redemption, and salvation. And I choose to accept the reality that I must develop the “art of letting go.”

I’ve often said, “If I was going to die of a broken heart, that would have happened a long time ago,” but in truth I believe that people can actually die from a broken heart. In the midst of the most crushing grief, we must remember that God will uphold us through it all, and He will give us hope so that we can learn to live again, to love again, and to seek His blessings. It is not easy, but it is possible.

Another area of life (not at all like the loss of a loved one) in which we might need to develop the “art of letting go” is in the realm of earthly possessions. In this era of the “new” concept of “minimalism,” we are encouraged to get rid of everything in our lives that hold us back from truly appreciating and enjoying a peaceful, quiet existence.

The reality is that people have lived without an overabundance of material possessions throughout history. Many people, even today, live without the basic necessities of life. They struggle to find food, water, clothing, and shelter. When given the opportunity, we should consider sharing out of our abundance with those in need. There are many ways to do that, through charitable giving to volunteering at a local homeless shelter, to sponsoring a child in a third-world country, to adopting or providing foster care for orphans, among others.

But we can only do that if we learn the “art of letting go.” For some of us that begins right here at home, taking time and investing the energy needed to “let go” of some of the excess “stuff” in our homes, the hurtful resentments and grudges from an unforgiving heart, and the overwhelming time commitments that many of us struggle with.

I know some of you are thinking right now about the scene in “Frozen” where we are reminded to “Let it go.” But this is serious business! It’s time to reevaluate all of those things that are in our hands that we think we can’t live without. We need to examine our commitments, our values, and our possessions and turn it all over to God to do with as He chooses. We need to give Him our time, our finances, our possessions, our heart, our family, our home, and our whole being. If we let it go, God will redeem it, just as He did with Job: The LORD blessed the latter part of Job’s life more than the first . . .

So, this week as we are sorting through piles of accumulated stuff that somehow finds its way into our house – when we moved into this house lots of boxes of “stuff” were just piled up in the garage waiting for the day when we would finally get around to looking at it again – I am reminded that I need to work on developing the “art of letting go.” After all, if all that “stuff” has been sitting in a box in the back of the garage for two years, what are the chances that I will EVER actually, really, truly NEED it?

And on closer inspection, I need to look into my heart and I’m sure I’ll find plenty of “stuff” in there that I need to get rid of, too. I’m pretty convinced that getting rid of excess baggage, either in our homes or in our hearts, will bring a sense of peace or order that will then be a good place for us to seek God’s presence, where we can hear His voice, and we can learn to depend on Him, and trust Him for the inevitable day when we will need to face more difficult losses.

Can we let it go? If we start now to clear out everything that is distracting us from seeking and walking with God, when that day comes, we will be so much better prepared to let our most treasured possession go, knowing God will keep His promises and although we might be “struck down . . . but we are not destroyed.” How are you doing on letting go? It’s not easy, but you will truly find God’s presence in the quiet, even in those moments of deepest despair, and you will know that He offers hope to the broken hearted.

I wish for you this summer, and all year long, the joy of His presence and the peace of His promises. I wish you times of reflection and heart-examination, and I wish for you the courage and the determination to “let go” of everything that is hindering you as you strive to walk with Him every day.

And I wish for you the comfort and courage that only comes from God when you are going through those times of loss . . . that you would be able to “let go” and know that even when you feel as if your heart is being ripped from your chest, God will carry you. You are not alone.

Betsy Ross: Patriots, Petticoats, and Providential History, Part 1

by Kathryn Ross

As we mark the defining moment in history celebrated on July 4, 1776, when 55 men burdened with the responsibility to decide the course of America—tyranny or liberty; monarchy or independence—it is important to remember their decisions were not made lightly or in their own power.

They each acknowledged the providence of God in their crucial time. They sought to follow His Will to whatever end it might be, out of obedience to what they understood as biblical principles of liberty and justice.

Their choices produced a Constitutional Republic governmental system that had never been seen in the world. A Judeo-Christian, entrepreneurial capitalist society of self-governed people who grew to become the greatest nation in world history, impacting all nations with the proliferation of God’s Word and the principles of freedom.

Patriots, all.

And many of those patriots wore petticoats.

Meet Betsy Ross, a young woman providently placed and prepared by God to serve her nation in a critical time.

Her story reminds us to be ever ready to answer God's call to play our part in His providential plan for our lives, and the lives He has called us to impact with our choices and actions.

Not since the inception of our Republic has this call been so vital, as our Republic is under full assault by its enemies to destroy it from within and supplant it with the very opposite of freedom—a socialist regime.

Welcome to Betsy’s world: The bell in the Christ Church tower called the colonists to worship through the crisp winter air in early January. John and Betsy Ross slid into their pew across the aisle from General Washington’s empty box with a reverent nod in its direction. News of his battle in Boston on New Year’s Day had reached Philadelphia.

The year 1776, ushered in with canon and musket fire, promised more of the same to come. Escalating tensions with England produced challenges on all fronts for American colonists and the Ross’ were no exception.

The couple, married barely four years, enjoyed precious little time together as husband and wife with the rumblings of war and independence troubling their bliss.

In fact, to make ends meet, John was forced to join the Pennsylvania militia once their upholstery shop felt the financial impact of scarce materials and job competition because of the war.

But, on the Lord’s Day hope supplants fear.

Civilians, officers, and enlisted gather as one family to worship He who commands Heaven’s armies.

Class distinctions dissipate when saints gather to pray. In the throes of revolutionary unrest, petitions of both the high-born and the low-born rage fervent.

Every word from every lip avails much.

Christ Church, centered on the street a block from the Ross’ home in one direction and the government meeting house in the other, filled to overflow when members of the Continental Congress gathered to govern in Philadelphia.

Suffering mortal wounds in an ammunitions storehouse explosion, Betsy’s hopes for a happilyever-after life with him, shattered to pieces. A widow at age 24, she remained to navigate a tenuous future alone, taking any work related to needle and thread.

Battle losses prior to an actual declaration of war increased throughout the colonies—especially in the New England states. Representative John Adams of the Massachusetts colony, a fire-brand advocate for independence, made quite a name for himself in the congressional debates.

New England saw more than its share of confrontations, becoming a hot-bed of dissention due to the influx of taxes required, and freedoms stripped, from the colonists there. Redcoat armies took violent stands to quell the masses. The scene played out with more regularity, spreading like a plague throughout the colonies.

On New Year’s Day in 1776, during the Siege of Boston, George Washington became acutely aware of the need to fly a new flag for the colonist’s cause in the skirmish. Whether Congress agreed that they were at war or not, the fact remained—battle lines were drawn. In the turmoil, the colonial rebels needed a rallying symbol under which to fight.

Image via Wikipedia

On Sunday morning, statesmen sought the Lord’s wisdom for the historic decisions they had the responsibility to make. Betsy glanced about the congregation recognizing many distinguished men destined for immortalization in history books.

The colonists, seeking to live peaceable lives under an oppressive rule, spiraled toward a historic moment from which there would be no turning back.

The crisis of birth to bring forth new life is not simply the domain of women. Nations are birthed through crisis, too.

She breathed a silent prayer on their behalf. They carried a great burden. With a loving squeeze of John’s hand, she met his eyes, betraying in her weak smile a sense of pride mingled with fear, then turned her attention to the hymn book.

And in just such a critical moment of history, a widowed young woman would soon make a lasting mark in the birth of a nation through divine providential circumstances.

Patriots, citizens, soldiers, and seamstresses raised their voices as one in praise and petition to the strains of Amazing Grace.

John and Betsy never shared a pew or sang in worship together again.

Within a fortnight that January, while Congress argued secession from the tyrannical government over-reach, exorbitant taxes, and crushing regulations of the English king, John Ross became an early casualty of a war yet to be formally declared.

In February, General Washington arrived in Philadelphia to discuss the need for the colonies' standard under which to muster the troops. A number of flags existed, raised by colonists as part of the campaign towards revolution.

For instance, the popular image of a rattlesnake captioned with the challenging tag line “Don’t Tread on Me” effectively stirred crowds to the purpose.

But, emotionally charged mantras and imagery seemed hardly appropriate for a united battlefield banner.

A new flag must be designed to distinctly represent all thirteen colonies banded together for independence. This would set the colonists apart from the British Union Jack in battle and become a new nation’s patriotic emblem.

To the purpose, the Continental Congress designated a Secret Flag Committee made up of General Washington; Robert Morris, the wealthiest man in the colonies; and George Ross, John and Betsy’s uncle. By spring, they drafted an idea for the colors and design—red, white, and blue, in stars and stripes.

“But, who can fashion such a thing?” Washington asked.

It had been a couple of months since George Ross lost his nephew in the explosion. He knew Betsy’s skill and her need for work. He also knew her to be a patriot.

“Perhaps we raise the subject of the flag on the pretext of a condolence visit from her uncle and his two friends. In daylight. To avoid suspicion.”

Loyalists to the crown were prevalent in Philadelphia. Spies might be the harmless neighbor next door. John Ross’ tragic death appeared as an advantage now, shielding a military meeting behind the veil of a social sympathy call.

On an early spring day in May, Betsy sat in her front room mending petticoats when she heard a gentle rap on the door. She slid her needle into the fabric to keep her place and set the sewing aside to see who may have come to call.

“Uncle George!” she smiled with delight and a reverent curtsy. “How kind of you to visit.” The last time Uncle George came to her door was shortly after the news of her husband’s death.

Image via History.com

“I think my niece, Betsy Ross, at the upholstery shop across from Christ Church may be of use there.” he suggested.

“You’ve had her mend and fashion some of your shirts, General.”

Washington nodded. He knew the quality of her work, and from Sunday worship was aware she had recently lost her husband to the cause. The committee agreed. Washington, Morris, and George Ross would pay a visit to Betsy Ross.

Their errand involved some risk should news of their plan fall into British hands. They chanced arrest for treason, putting Betsy in harm’s way, and had every reason to be concerned for secrecy and stealth in meeting.

“The good mistress has lost her husband of late,” said Morris.

She weakened for a moment, remembering the few days she tried to nurse John through his wounds to no avail. Uncle George had always been charitable to her. She spoke with him last when they laid John to rest in the Christ Church cemetery.

Blinking the sun from her eyes, she strained to see the two men standing behind him. A cloud drifted into place to cover the mid-day glare, allowing her to focus on the familiar faces of General Washington and Mr. Morris, men of note and accomplishment.

Something told her this was not a mere social call with her uncle. A business call, perhaps? Swiftly, she ushered them into her home.

Light pleasantries exchanged between the lady and her visitors, with formal greetings and condolences paid as planned. Betsy shrank in the presence of the three dignitaries.

They brought no parcel of clothes for mending. What could their mission be? To simply offer condolences? Surely not. Was the General in the habit of such a thing with so many militia families having experienced similar losses in Philadelphia?

Furtive glances passed between the men before the General nodded. “We shall get straight to the business, Mrs. Ross.” He spoke with a soft, yet commanding voice, motioning her to sit. She did so.

“You see, Betsy, dear,” started Uncle George, “We have need of your services. Your needle and thread.”

Watch for Part Two of Patriots, Petticoats, and Providential History in the August issue of RUBY Magazine! To learn more about Betsy Ross and the Betsy Ross House Museum, visit http://historicphiladelphia.org/betsy-rosshouse/history/ Listen to a dramatization of the whole story on The Writer’s Reverie Podcast, by Kathryn Ross at www.thewritersreverie.com. Click Podcasts on the menu bar and scroll down to access Patriots, Petticoats, and Providential History.

Betsy relaxed. “Oh. I see. You have some uniforms, perhaps, that need mending? General Washington, more ruffles for your shirts?”

“Not quite uniforms. And, no—no ruffles this time.”

General Washington drew a small sheet of paper from his inner overcoat pocket and unfolded it on the table next to Betsy. “A flag, Mrs. Ross. A battle flag.”

Scuffling sounds in the street, just outside the front door, hushed the group with a palatable tension.

Betsy’s hand rose to her lips, stifling a gasp.

General Washington motioned for silence. He crept along the wall towards the window, shielding himself, to investigate the source of the noise.

Might spies have followed General Washington to her doorstep? Had the war Betsy feared for so long come to her own home?

Now accepting submissions for the

AUGUST 2018 issue of

RUBY magazine Visit the RUBY blog for all the details www.rubyforwomen.com/submissions

Create Your Own DIY Patriotic Blocks

by Donna Powell Our home has a lot of patriotic themed décor. Not only because I love the combination of red, white and blue together, but because my husband is a veteran.

Over the last twenty seven years of marriage, we have slowly collected patriotic artwork and décor with battle scenes of historic civil war battles, paratroopers, and our latest is a special edition print for the 278th Army Calvary Regiment which he served with in Iraq.

We display these things because it is so much more than just being an Army veteran, but it stems from a love of God, our country and honor for those who have served before him.

I love to decorate our home for the warmer summer months with little touches of red, white and blue.

Not only can you leave them up from Memorial Day until Labor Day, but they also provide a festive touch to regular family gatherings.

This month I have embarked on a creative endeavor to make a patriotic themed project for each week during the month.. A few are quick and easy projects but a couple require a bit more time, for instance, the Four Sided Patriotic Blocks I worked on this week.

For this project you will need:      

Artminds™ Whittler’s Kit Acrylic paints in Navy, White, and Red Painters Pens in Navy, White, Red and Silver Craft brushes in various sizes Vinyl letters and stickers if desired PolyAcrylic top coat in semi-gloss

I chose the Artminds™ Whittler’s Kit because it comes with three precut wood blocks in different sizes. No cutting or sawing required for three different sizes of blocks to stack together. I painted each block entirely in one color of the red, white or blue. I found that this took several coats to get a nice paint cover.

The next step is entirely up to you. I chose to use a method of creating the words for the blocks on my computer, printing them out and then cutting out each individual word as a template. Using colored chalk on the back of the word template, I then traced over the original side with a pencil on the wood to leave a chalk image of the word to fill in with paint.

This method is fairly easy but took much longer than I had planned. And it did not give me clean crisp lines for the letters that I wanted. But I had already committed myself too far in to this process to change it at the last minute. If I ever make a set for another holiday or for inspiration, I will shop for

vinyl letters in different fonts and colors to stick to the blocks. This would also be less time consuming than painting each individual letter and word.

I chose to create four sides to each block to be able to create several different patriotic sayings to display and change as I liked throughout the summer months.

“Pray for our Troops” “God Bless America” “Pray for America” “God for America” “Faith Family Freedom” “Home of the Brave” “Pray for Freedom” “God Bless our Troops” Any combination of words and sayings can be painted on each side of the blocks. The trick is to plan them out beforehand on which side of the block so that you get the words in the right order when stacked.

I can already imagine making a set of these blocks with portions of Bible verses or daily reminders of God’s love, faithfulness and provision. Every day you can rearrange the blocks for new inspiration.

I may leave this set of blocks out all year!

For more inspirational articles and creative inspiration, visit Donna at Modern on Monticello

Vintage Mama’s Book Shoppe * DIY Home Décor * Gardening * Parenting *Christian Fiction * Family Life http://vintagemamascottage.com/vintage-mamas-bookshoppe/

The Price of Freedom

by Norma C. Mezoe The gray uniform of the Confederacy hung in the display case in the Civil War museum. The left leg had been cut away high above the knee. Nearby was a picture of the soldier who had worn the uniform.

Only nineteen years of age, his face was almost child-like. His stature was slender and boyish.

Image via Wikipedia

How his mother’s heart must have ached as she hugged her son and said, “Good-bye.” Her burning desire was to hold on to him and prevent him from leaving the relative safety of their simple country home. But she knew she had to release him to do what he believed was his duty.

The young man’s father stood nearby; hands in pockets and his head bowed low. He wanted to tell his son how much he loved him, but the words could not push past the lump sticking in his throat.

Finally, he thrust out his hand and clasped his son’s hand…firmly, but yet gently. His grasp spoke of the love he could not speak.

Then off marched the son, along with others of his small village. Mom and Dad watched the road until he was long out of sight. Then, gathering up the broken pieces of their hearts, they returned home to resume a semblance of living.

Far away, battles raged. Often brother fought against brother; each man believing his convictions were the right ones. Then came the battle of Chancellorsville. Robert E. Lee led the Confederacy against the Union. Dressed in his grey woolen uniform, the nineteen year old joined his comrades in fighting the enemy. But a bullet found its mark, shattering the young man’s thigh.

Taken to a makeshift operating room, his leg was amputated. The surgery was futile. After much pain and endless suffering, the young soldier died. Mom and Dad would wait hopelessly for their son to return home.

Now, the uniform hanging in the museum is mute evidence of the tragedies of war and of homes torn apart by battles.

Throughout the history of America, wars have been fought to gain and to preserve our freedom.

Many men and women have given their lives in order to insure that our liberty will remain. Others have suffered injuries and will carry the result of these throughout their lives. The sacrifices have been numberless throughout the history of our beautiful land. We are thankful and indebted to each of these individuals.

As Christians celebrate on the Fourth of July, we are blessed with two kinds of freedom. Not only do we observe our country’s independence, we can also be thankful for the freedom Jesus Christ gives.

Because of his suffering, dying and resurrection, we have been given an eternal freedom that can never be taken away.

As our families gather for picnics and cookouts, fireworks and parades, may we pause to give heartfelt thanks to those who have sacrificed for America’s freedom and to Jesus Christ for his sacrificial gift of spiritual freedom.

Independence Day Blessings

by Sharmelle Olson Our troops are in every corner of the world trying to protect our country where we live.

With this going on we are not in a dream world; not everyone in this battle can outlive their battle to help the world.

We wish our troops could come home safe and sound, but sadly, some will sacrifice their lives.

They lay at rest interred in holy ground and leave behind their kids and grieving wives.

It falls to us to honor them today, remember what they gave and humbly pray.

Symbols of Freedom to Celebrate the Fourth of July

by Nina Newton As we celebrate our nation’s birthday this month, I thought it would be fun and interesting to learn a bit more about some of the history behind the symbols that represent America. So, while the rest of the world throws a party, I decided to open up a book and discover some fascinating facts about our national symbols.

I guess I thought that, growing up in America, I knew all about the Statue of Liberty, the American Flag, the Liberty Bell, the Declaration of Independence . . . . but I was always kind of curious about ol’ Uncle Sam. So I started reading, and researching, and Googling and found some pretty interesting stuff. Did you know all about these symbols?

The History and Symbolism of the American Flag from Celebrating Holidays “A thoughtful mind when it sees a nation’s flag, sees not the flag, but the nation itself. And whatever may be its symbols, its insignia, he reads chiefly in the flag, the government, the principles, the truths, the history that belongs to the nation that sets it forth. The American flag has been a symbol of Liberty and men rejoiced in it.”

— Henry Ward Beecher This article features a brief history of the various flags that have been symbolic of our nation throughout its history: Early American Flags, Grand Union, The First Official Flag, The Betsy Ross Flag, The Star Spangled Banner, and The Stars and Stripes, as well as a reference to the Pledge of Allegiance. It was really interesting to see the development of our flag through different periods of history and begin to understand a bit more about what our flag has represented to Americans over the decades. You can read more at Celebrating Holidays.

Fun Facts about the 4th of July from A Merry Mom Among the many interesting facts that I discovered about America’s “birthday” on this website, is this detail that I’m sure I read about somewhere along the line but had forgotten: “Despite the U.S. declaration of its freedom in 1776, the Revolutionary War continued until the British surrendered after the Siege of Yorktown on October 19, 1781.The Treaty of Paris was later signed by representatives from the United States and Great Britain on September 3, 1783 to mark the official end of the conflict.

Stop by A Merry Mom to read even more fun facts about the 4th of July!

Declaration of Independence image via The National Archives.

The Story of the Statue of Liberty from the Liberty Ellis Foundation Here’s one more symbol of America that I thought I knew all about . . . until I read the actual history of the Statue of Liberty from the Liberty Ellis Foundation website. I knew that it was a gift from France but there is much more to the story of the creation, transport, building, and symbolism that is quite fascination.

You can read all about it on the Liberty Ellis Foundation website.

Image via US Immigration

The History and Symbolism of the Liberty Bell from Celebrating Holidays Most people have grown up believing that immediately following the signing of the Declaration of Independence, news of freedom was proclaimed by the ringing of the Liberty Bell in the steeple of the Philadelphia State House.

This legend has been traced back to a 1847 fictional story written by George Lippard for The Saturday Currier in which an elderly bellman waits in the State House steeple for word as to whether or not Congress will declare independence.

As the old man begins to doubt Congress’ resolve, his grandson, who had been eavesdropping at the doors of the State House, yells, “Ring, Grandfather! Ring!”

Apparently this is a great story, but according to this website, that’s not quite the way it happened. But the Liberty Bell is such a powerful symbol of American freedom and independence, that it is still held in high esteem by all Americans. Read the rest of the story at Celebrating Holidays.

The History and Symbolism of Uncle Sam from Celebrating Holidays “The first recorded account of how the nickname came to be associated with Sam Wilson appeared in the Book of the Navy (1842).The author, John Frost, recalls having read the story elsewhere, most likely in a newspaper, but the source has not been found. The story follows.

During the war of 1812, an army contractor by the name of Elbert Anderson of New York traveled to Troy to purchase barrels of pork and beef from the Wilson meat company. Sam Wilson oversaw a large number of workers who were busily moving barrels for the army. The barrels were apparently marked E.A. – U.S., and when one of the workers asked another fellow employ the meaning of the initials, he was told that they must stand for Elbert Anderson and “Uncle Sam” (clearly a reference to his boss). The joke stuck, and as many of these workers ended up serving in the war, they carried the story with them.” (John Frost, The Book of the Navy, D. Appleton & Co., 1842, pp. 297-298).

According to Celebrating Holidays, this is the original account of “Uncle Sam,” but there is so much more to the story!

“Tradition holds that the name “Uncle Sam” is connected to a real person by the name of Sam Wilson. Born in Arlington, Massachusetts, in 1768, most of Sam’s childhood would have been during the Revolutionary War. Around 1789, Sam moved to Troy and became a prominent business man who was active in political affairs.”

Image via Library of Congress

You can read the rest of the story, including some fascinating historical research into the origin of “Uncle Sam” on the Celebrating Holidays website.

The History and Symbolism of the Bald Eagle from Celebrating Holidays “The Bald Eagle became a national emblem of the United States on June 20, 1782, the day the design was chosen for the Great Seal of our country. The magnificent creature can now be found with outstretched wings on coins, bills, and stamps”.

There is so much more to all of these stories, and if you are interested in reading more, please visit the websites that are linked to and below each image.

I really learned a lot about these symbols that we see so prominently displayed, especially on the Fourth of July. What are you going to be doing this year on the Fourth? We celebrate our country every day of the year, and we are truly grateful to God for the privilege of living in “the home of the free because of the brave.”

Thank you to all who have served our nation, to keep us safe from all those who would seek to harm us. God bless America!

Knee High By the Fourth of July

by Gloria Doty

When I was growing up on a small farm in the Midwest, I often heard the term “knee high by the fourth of July.” It was used as a measurement for the corn growing in the field.

If it had been planted late due to some weather issues, it might not be that height. If the spring was conducive to early planting, the stalks could reach well above the farmer’s knees by the holiday.

As a young child, I didn’t fully understand the concept but I knew where my knees were and wanting to make my Daddy happy, I would walk to the edge of the cornfield to see if the young sprouts were achieving their expected growth rate.

When I could feel the tickle of the dark green leaves near my knees, I remember running to the house to give the good news about the height of the plants.

My very wise father thanked me for my efforts while he stood beside me to point out the difference in his knees and my knees.

Then he asked me, “Gloria, whose knees do you think we should use to measure the corn?” I was very confused. Did it matter whose knees?

Apparently, it did but I didn’t know why.

I'm an adult now and I do understand the term in relation to the corn plants.

It is simply a loose measurement for the farmer to estimate if his crop will mature in a timely manner or if he needs to start praying for an extended fall so the corn can be harvested before winter snows arrive.

As I drove down country roads, past the lush green cornfields, I contemplated growth in my life and others. Does God have a measuring stick to see if we are maturing in our faith in a timely manner or if we are falling way behind?

Do we need to be knee high by a specific age?

The floods and droughts that affect the corn can be compared to the problems and catastrophes we encounter daily. Each person may have the seeds of God’s word planted at different seasons in their life.

We do not have to concern ourselves with “measuring up” by a certain age or time period. God loves us and continues to nurture our growth regardless of when the first seeds were planted or how difficult the growing conditions have been. He is the Lord of the Harvest.

11 For as the earth brings forth its sprouts, and as a garden causes what is sown in it to sprout up, so the Lord GOD will cause righteousness and praise to sprout up before all the nations.

Isaiah 61:11 (ESV)

A Work in Progress

by Norma C. Mezoe

And we know that in all things God works for the good of those who love him, who have been called according to his purpose. –Romans 8:28 (NIV) An artist gathers his paints, brushes and other supplies. He stands before a blank canvas, picks up a brush and begins painting.

His first efforts may look like a total mess; just a bunch of blobs of paint strewn on the canvas. To an onlooker, it seems the artist may as well throw his work away because it doesn’t make any sense.

But the artist has a vision of what the finished painting will look like and he continues using his brushes to paint strokes and colors of various sizes and colors. The painting is plainly a work in progress.

Christians are also a work in progress and only God knows the end result of each individual.

Sometimes he paints with wide strokes of joy but other times the strokes are black and gray and bring heartache and pain.

Often, we may want to snatch the brush from our Creator’s hand and paint our own life. But God has a plan for each of us and he cannot fulfill it if we won’t allow him full control in our wills and our lives.

Prayer: Guiding Father, please help us to accept the strokes of your brush as you paint your plans for our lives. Amen.

RUBY’S Reading Corner for family-friendly, seasonal, and holiday books and home décor. http://rubyforwomen.com/rubys-reading-corner-2/

Kids’ Korner Kids’ Korner is a monthly resource featuring short stories, book reviews, puzzles, and coloring pages created by some of our RUBY writers. So call the kids and grandkids, and share the Kids’

Korner fun with them!

Celebrating the Oregon Trail

by Carol Peterson Back in 1843 the Oregon Provisional Legislature set aside low-cost land to people wanting to move to Oregon. This year, the State of Oregon celebrates the 175th anniversary of those pioneers who moved to Oregon from the East Coast and Midwest. The route those early pioneers took is called “The Oregon Trail.”

The pioneers loaded up their furniture, clothing and food into wagons covered with cloth. The wagons were called prairie schooners and were about the size of a minivan. They were pulled by horses, mules or oxen and were very heavy.

Things were especially hard when the wagons traveled over mountains. Sometimes the animals needed a rest, but if they stopped, the heavy wagon might pull them back down the mountain. So, pioneers would lead animals part way up the mountain and then tie the wagon to trees, so the animals could rest before heading back up the mountain.

Sometimes the trail was filled with boulders. The pioneers would unhook the animals and take them to the top of the hill. Then the men tied ropes to the wagon and lifted it up the hill.

Once the wagon reached the top of the hill, there was a danger that it might slip and run over the animals pulling it. Also, pioneers made sure that only one wagon went down the mountain at a time so there was no danger of one wagon crashing into the wagon in front.

If you were heading west along the Oregon Trail and could only bring one small item with you, what would you bring? Why is that one item so important to you?

Draw a picture of you and your family in a covered wagon heading west.

Celebrating the Oregon Trail Coloring Page

Find more FREE printable American history coloring pages at Patriotic Coloring Pages

The Game

by Shara Bueler-Repka Melissa swung upside down on the pull-up bar.

Jada, Mateo, and I hung out on the swings and a picnic bench.

“Sherry Scary!” Melissa sneered.

“I’m bored,” Melissa grumbled.

“Sherry Smelly!” Mateo chimed in.

“Me too,” I sighed.

“That doesn’t even rhyme, Mateo,” scolded Melissa.

Melissa suddenly swung off the bar. “I’ve got an idea!” she announced. We perked up.

Mateo rolled his eyes.

“Hairy Sherry!” Jada teased.

“Pick?” Jada wrinkled her nose. “What’s that?”

Sherry stared from one to the other of us, her socalled friends, confused at this undeserved attack.

We laughed and headed for the swings.

“Well, I kind of made it up. We choose someone at random to ‘pick’ on. It won’t be like they’re not our friend or anything. We’ll only be playing.”

Day after day, the game continued. And day after day, the taunts grew more intense. We stomped away from her when she tried to talk to us.

Mateo shook his head. “I don’t know. That doesn’t sound very nice.”

We never invited her to hang out or play. We even rejected her membership in our secret clubhouse in the trees.

“Let’s play a game called ‘pick,’” she said.

“Oh, come on,” Melissa coaxed. “What’s the harm?

We’ll know we’re kidding, and it’ll only be for a little while.” Melissa narrowed her eyes at us. “Then we’ll tell that person we were just joking around.”

The more Melissa talked, the more we listened. This might be pretty fun, I thought. After all, it’s only a game.

The gang of us eyed our target—Sherry Palmer, quietly playing with her best friend. She smiled as we approached, but her soft, bright blue eyes widened as the taunts flew.

One afternoon, I watched Sherry during homeroom and winced as she cringed at the recess bell. She hurried out the door and ran to a quiet corner of the playground. My heart ached.

“This isn’t just a silly game,” I confided to Mateo as I dug my toes in the sand under the swing.

“Yeah, no kidding,” Mateo agreed, leaning on the climbing wall. “Melissa is a bully, but we let ourselves be duped into her idea. How do we quit?”

“No clue. And will Melissa, or even Jada, ‘pick’ us if we go against them?”

Mateo nervously tapped his toe on the ‘Welcome’ mat.

“Whew, I hope not!” Mateo frowned. “But remember what our youth leader taught? He said the Bible teaches us that we’re to treat others how we want to be treated.” (See Matthew 7:12)

My knees knocked as I forced my hand toward the doorbell.

“Oh, man,” I groaned. “We sure blew that one!”

Maybe they’re not home. I relaxed a little.

Mateo plopped down on the swing next to mine.

“Well, he also said if we are truly sorry and stop our hurtful behavior, Jesus will forgive us and help us make it right.”

Click. Swoosh. The door swung open, and Mrs. Palmer towered over us, eyes glaring.

“We need some big-time help,” I decided. “Let’s pray.” I grabbed Mateo’s hand, and the words gushed out: “Dear Jesus, please forgive us for being sucked into this stupid game. Give us the courage to stand up to Melissa and quit.”

Ding-Dong. Silence.

“Mrs. Palmer, may we please speak to Sherry?”

Mateo blurted.

“I don’t think that’s such a hot idea, right now,” she bristled.

“We’re here to apologize for the way we treated her.

We are so sorry,” I cried.

I choked backed tears. “And please help Sherry to forgive us for hurting her.”

Mrs. Palmer’s eyes softened, and she leaned against the doorframe.

We glanced up and spotted Melissa and Jada.

Seizing the opportunity, we confronted them.

I heard gentle footsteps echoing down the hallway.

“Melissa, this game we’ve been playing is so wrong on so many levels,” Mateo said.

Melissa smirked and looked away. Jada’s face flushed as red as a ripe tomato, and she stared at the ground.

I took a deep breath. “We’re done playing this game.” Then I cringed, anticipating some kind of punch. But surprisingly, Melissa just shrugged and walked off. Jada’s shoulders slumped as she turned and trudged after Melissa. Mateo and I breathed a sigh of relief.

Sherry appeared at her mom’s side. Her eyes widened with worry.

The apologies poured out from Mateo and me to our friend. As we explained the whole story, Sherry nodded and swiped away a tear.

It took a while for her to trust us again, but Mateo and I learned that Jesus has a way of healing hurts when we are willing to ask for forgiveness.

“Hey,” Mateo said, “if we start being nice to Sherry again, maybe she’ll forgive us and we can forget about this whole stinky mess.”

“Well,” I replied, “great idea, but Sherry missed school today.”

The following morning, Sherry’s empty chair stood as an accusation of what we had done. A sick feeling swirled in the pit of my stomach. Is she coming back? I wondered. Hot tears welled up and slid down my cheeks. This is our fault. But what can we do? ********************* The late afternoon sun zeroed in like a spotlight on the huge wooden name sign looming over the front door—‘Palmer’.

Find more FREE clip art at My Cute Graphics

Ode to Summertime

by Cynthia Knisley

The ants go marching two by two, the little one stops to tie his shoe………eight by eight, the little one stops to fasten the gate…... This is a great camp song that engages young children while hiking on a summer day.

They enjoy the rhyme and wait eagerly to hear the final line. The rhythm matches their stride, and the progression of numbers encourages them to keep up the pace and reach their destination----a resting log, a large flat rock by a stream, a clearing in the meadow, and of course a tasty snack. I love singing this song with my grandchildren while we explore the outdoor world.

As the jingle depicts, ants do like to march along, and they do quite a bit of exploring, but they are not always welcome. Last week quite an army of them appeared in my kitchen. Yikes! Luckily, I recalled the tip once offered by a fellow-shopper at the grocery store. The ants were abundant that year. While desperately trying to avoid ant traps, the old-fashioned kind that are filled with a chemical powder and that I hesitate to place anywhere in my “food haven,” I finally asked a total stranger for advice.

Her magic formula was bay leaf. She shared my desire to not introduce chemicals into the kitchen and assured me that her solution works! I found a large bag of bay leaf in the international section of the store, reasonably priced, and hurried home to begin an anti-ant campaign. The herb seemed to help when scattered along the back edges of counters and in corners of the floor where ants had made their entrance.

Persistent chaps still made it to my countertop, however. It was time for strategy # two. This involved sprinkling corn meal on the counters and in the corners, a grain that particularly attracts ants. Within hours a group of black moving dots assembled, but the next day there was not an ant to be seen!

Evidently the little critters eat the grains of corn meal, which then swell up inside their tiny tummies and make them ill. Enough said about that. The corn meal trick, like bay leaf, is non-chemical and easy to clean up in a day or two.

Lately, the use of oils has enjoyed a renaissance for solving nearly every problem a person could encounter from mood changes to nasal congestion. My daughter reports that a blend of cinnamon bark oil, clove bud oil, citrus peel oil, rosemary leaf oil, and eucalyptus oil works well to deter ants. A sophisticated concoction for sure …. but my guess is that a simplified version would work also.

When the next ant army marches in, why not try a sprinkling of ground cinnamon right out of the container, a few crushed whole cloves, and grated orange peel around the kitchen. At the least, it will smell festive!

Another thought: I would avoid singing that cute song in the house, if possible. The ants lurking outside may consider it an open invitation! ******************************************************** Here find my version of the above-referenced children’s song. It’s fun to create new rhymes as well.

The ants go marching one by one, hurrah, hurrah. (repeat) The ants go marching one by one.

The little one stops to have some fun.

And they all go marching down, to the ground, To get out of the rain, bum, bum, bum. …two by two…The little one stops to tie his shoe. …three by three…The little one stops to climb a tree. …four by four…The little stops to shut the door. …five by five…The little one stops to see a bee hive… …six by six…The little one stops to pick up sticks. …seven by seven…The little one stops to peek up at heaven. …eight by eight…The little one stops to climb the gate. …nine by nine…The little one stops to read a sign. …ten by ten…The little one stops to look at a wren.

For inspirational and creative articles, visit Theresa Begin on her blog, Shoestring Elegance.

Summer Vacation

by Nancy Frantel I remember how much fun summer vacations were as a child.

Some of you may ask, “Are you sure they were all fun?” This question forces me to confess certain trips provided more joy than others.

However, I try to remember vacations which resulted in the most smiles. Number one–the beach.

A vacation wasn’t always guaranteed. My father worked long hours as owner of a farm equipment store. Spring and summer were the busiest times, which required working six days a week.

If a farmer’s tractor broke down during planting or harvesting, dad opened up on his day off. He understood the farmers needed help.

But he also knew the importance of spending time with his family. I guess even as a child, I saw how my father needed a break.

The beach topped the list of his favorite place to relax. While my mother wouldn’t have chosen this location, my two brothers and I approved. She knew the value of honoring her husband’s decision, and started packing a week ahead of the trip.

With the station wagon packed full of beach gear (umbrella, chairs, and floats), it’s a miracle my dad could see out his rear-view mirror. Add the kid’s back seat activity of arguing and shoving, and I’m not sure how we reached our destination without incident.

Upon arrival, we checked into an old motel. We stayed there every visit. I remember dad speaking politely to the clerks, and how they provided a clean, well sort of clean, room.

But as kids, the room didn’t matter. We would be spending most of our time swimming. After this activity, our room wouldn’t be clean very long.

“Let’s go dad. I want to get in the water.”

We all chimed in when one sibling expressed urgency through a dramatic, “I want to go noooooooow!”

While this doesn’t sound like fun yet, our parents knew the long (to us) trip required releasing pent-up energy soon.

Seeing our increased excitement, mother told us to put on our bathing suits.

“Yeah, finally!”

While walking towards the beach, the salty ocean breeze enhanced our senses. We tried to run, but each time mother shouted, “Walk!” So my brothers and I shuffle ran, dragging our feet to pretend walk.

(We left dad behind to bring the beach umbrella, chairs, blankets, and floats. Sorry about that dad.)

When we reached the walkway through the sand dunes, we charged towards our goal. Laughter and my “girl squeal” filled the air. I’m sure mother smiled, watching her children race towards the foamy surf.

The first child to reach the water screamed, “Brrrrr! Why is it so cold?’”

After a few seconds, excitement erased any memory of our concern. Soon we splashed each other, resulting in squeals, then changing to laughter.

Under mother’s watchful eye, we ran in and out of the water, and back and forth on the beach.

Soon dad arrived. He barely had time to place the beach gear down, before my brothers and I raced to grab the best float.

- youngest, I lost all the time. Yep, pretty sure I always As the lost. But it didn’t matter. I was with my family, and had smiles to prove it.

Dad started enjoying his vacation when his feet touched the water.

As a child, I didn’t understand how God’s blessing of parents who loved us resulted in fun for our family. I learned to praise Him for those moments, and countless more.

Thank you God for the gift of family, the ability to smile, laugh, and love.

“This is the day that the Lord has made; let us rejoice and be glad in it.” Psalm 118:24 (NRSV) “…it is God’s gift that all should eat and drink and take pleasure in all their toil. I know that whatever God does endures forever; nothing can be added to it, nor anything taken from it; God has done this, so that all should stand in awe before him.” Ecclesiastes 3:13-14 (NRSV)

A Passionate Hope Hannah’s Story

by Jill Eileen Smith Series: Daughters of the Promised Land Book review by Miriam Jacob Can one childless woman’s prayers change the world?

Hannah and her husband, Elkanah loved each other deeply.

They also loved God fervently. Passionately longing for restoration, they prayed for a deliverer.

But as the long, wearisome years passed, nothing changed for the better. As Hannah was barren, Elkanah married Peninnah, who quickly bore children and cruelly taunted Hannah mercilessly.

Hannah’s tearful prayers went unanswered. Would Hannah’s devotion and kindness amount to nothing? Will God answer her heart’s cries and agonizing pleas?

In the dusty streets of Shiloh, Jill Eileen Smith vividly brings to life a story of hope, patience, and deliverance. Even the most broken and irretrievably lost of all relationships can be mercifully restored

by God’s benevolent love.

A Passionate Hope is a novel about redeeming love, steeped in dramatic historical detail about real people, large as life, who suffering agonizing heartache, cry out to God and are transformed by the miracle of grace.

Impeccable research and vivid prose brings the characters of the Bible to life. The themes of heartache, saving grace, fiery faith, redemption, and healing are excitingly interwoven into a dramatic finish. This is a well-drawn love story with wistful imaginings and soulful heart cries.

Jill Eileen Smith writes intriguing, spirit-filled fiction, about inspiring women of sterling character, drawn from the dusty margins of Biblical history, to illuminate their achievements like the sun shining in full strength. Her richly detailed settings and gift of graphic description give readers a strong sense of what life was really like in ancient Israel.

You can find more inspiring book reviews by Miriam Jacob on her website.

A Passionate Hope: Hannah’s Story by Jill Eileen Smith is available from RUBY’S Reading Corner.

His name tag read, Trainee. Not Bob or Jim, just Trainee. My heart ached for him as the line snaked through the small Post Office. Slow and unsure, Trainee stopped and asked advice from his supervisor. When I approached the counter, he apologized for the wait and explained his in-training status. I nodded my head as I recalled nameless memories.

A few years earlier, I returned as a substitute teacher at a local Christian school. Eager to begin, I checked into the elementary office and gathered my lanyard.

The green paper tucked inside the plastic sleeve read: SUBSTITUTE. Not Mrs. Campbell, just SUBSTITUTE, in all capital letters. To me, it said: Kick Me. My enthusiasm popped like a balloon. Was it necessary to declare my substitute status? The students and staff would recognize me as the fill-in teacher. Frustrated and dejected, I walked to my classroom with my scarlet word dangling from my neck. Hello, my name is Substitute.

Trainee and Substitute were nameless to others. But, when I accepted Jesus as my Lord and Savior, my namelessness vanished. My new names, written in the precious blood of Jesus Christ, are sprinkled throughout His love letter.

Friend. I no longer call you servants, because a servant does not know his master’s business.

Instead, I have called you friends, for everything that I learned from my Father I have made known to you. John 15:15 (NIV) Heir. Now if we are children, then we are heirs—heirs of God and co-heirs with Christ, if indeed we share in his sufferings in order that we may also share in his glory. Romans 8:17 (NIV) Daughter. And, I will be a Father to you, and you will be my sons and daughters, says the Lord Almighty. 2 Corinthians 6:18 (NIV) A New Creation. Therefore, if anyone is in Christ, the new creation has come: The old has gone, the new is here! 2 Corinthians 5:17 (NIV) My encounter with Trainee reminded me how the enemy desires to strip us of our names and identities. He deceives us into believing we live in anonymity. God Almighty says otherwise.

The Good Shepherd knows His sheep by name. I am the good shepherd; I know my sheep and my sheep know me. John 10:14 (NIV) We are never nameless to God. He knows us and calls us by name: friend, heir, daughter, new creation.

What an honor to wear name tags identifying who we are and whose we are!

Hello, my name is Krista, Beloved and Redeemed. Hello, my name is Krista, A Sheep of the Good Shepherd. I am nameless no more and neither are you.

On the Fourth of July, families look forward to fireworks and festivities––but how often do they take the time to commemorate the sacrifice our founding fathers, current troops, and even other people around the world have made? Although adults may understand those sacrifices, kids may only see the holiday as a chance to eat hamburgers, play in the pool, and watch a good lights show.

Although younger children may not understand important historical details, teaching them doesn’t have to become a difficult task. First, have them watch kid-friendly documentaries about America’s early history. A great resource is The American Revolution for Kids by Janis Herbert.

Teaching Kids about Independence

by Jehn Kubiak

For those who don’t have TVs or want to restrict media time, buy a picture book that will help them learn about important documents from the American Revolution and Colonial America––see The Best Children’s Books for a list of books organized by time period.

Next, you can have little lessons each morning–– before or after breakfast––about an important historical figure, such as Thomas Jefferson.

Ducksters offers a few easy-to-read biographies. After introducing key leaders, teach them about historical events and make a game out of it.

If your kids are allowed to use the computer, try an interactive game, such as BrainPop’s Sortify: American Revolution quiz. One child can play on their own, or all the kids can gather around the screen and help each other out.

Another fun thing you can try is writing a script for the kids to act out––if they’re old enough to understand history, you can even invite them to participate. This way, they can learn about historical events––such as the signing of the Declaration of Independence––without reading a textbook.

Parents who don’t enjoy writing can resource Scholastic’s read-aloud play of The Boston Massacre, which is free for a limited time.

Even though the holiday celebrates America’s freedom from England, the holiday also commemorates current troops.

If you have a troop member in the family or know someone who has served in the U.S. Armed Forces, invite them over for dinner and ask them to tell the kids what freedom means to them.

In addition, they can tell the kids about the costs required for freedom and about the importance of the holiday.

Want to really test the kids’ knowledge? Take them on an internet scavenger hunt, courtesy of Teachers Gone Wild. During this game, the kids develop research skills as they look for newspaper articles and read other online resources.

All these are indoor activities, but you can also create your own scavenger hunt and get the kids outside. Print out draw items used during the When theyRevolution finish, teach each American onthem indexabout cards.

Theitem’s best way purpose.

For instance, tell them soldiers recorded to do this is by making a list of terms and having thoughts theirorday diaries and drums were them findabout pictures, theinreverse. used to give signals for the soldiers.

Revere's Ride Source: National Archives Teaching kids about the American Revolution doesn’t have to become a regimented exercise–– introduce a little fun so they enjoy and internalize the material. Due to this, they may truly appreciate the significance of the Fourth of July.

What I Love Best About America

by Sharon L. Patterson What I love best about America: Her Story…

Unparalleled: Born out of the struggle of tyrannical tension and the insatiable desire for freedom at every level of human existence.

Her People…

Inclusive: Populated from many countries: compiled of every ethnicity: collected from diverse social strata from the poor, the wealthy and everyone in between: composed of different religious conviction and political persuasions.

Her Purpose…

Influential: Leading the world in the strength of courageous compassion bordered by laws built on convictions of justice and equality of opportunity for all her people and those she influences internationally.

Her Principles…

Just: Founded on uncompromised truth as well as the ideals of mercy and justice for all taken from the time tested Judeo-Christian book of wisdom-the Bible.

Her Government…

Democratic: Representing her people through elected officials who operate the democratic republic through 3 branches of purposefully divided, yet wisely safe-guarded power (legislative, judicial, and executive).

Her Land…

Diverse: Displays the majesty of mountains; includes the expanse of oceans, gulfs, and islands; stuns with the beauty of plains and desert welcoming citizen and visitor alike to partake of her gorgeous smorgasbord of sights.

Her Flag…

Representative: Waving her vibrant red stripes that speak of selfless acts of bloodied heroism against the pure white promises to be a country of liberty and justice for all within her 50 star-studded states while remaining loyal as the blue field on which they are displayed.

What I love best about America: Everything…

Mine: Celebrating her story of freedom; sharing life with my fellow citizens: as we live out our purpose among the nations of the world to promote just principles through a representative democratic form of government that works.

I travel as often as possible from mountain to desert, from plain to the ocean and just like many of you, I will put out my flag this July 4th, grateful of its heritage, prayerful and hopeful of its future.

Happy 242nd Birthday America!

Total Commitment

by Norma C. Mezoe

A chicken and a pig were discussing how kind the farmer had been to them. “Let’s do something to show our gratitude,” suggested the chicken. “We’ll provide ham and eggs for the farmer.”

“That’s fine for you,” exclaimed the pig. “For you, that’s only a donation. But for me, that’s total commitment!”

God calls every Christian to commit our lives to him, not half-heartedly, but totally in all areas. Are we willing to obey and allow God to work his plan for us?

Prayer: Lord Jesus, you who made a total commitment for humanity, please help us to be totally committed to you. Amen.

God Borrowed My Cell Phone

by Lisa J. Radcliff

It was shaping up to be a vacation to remember.

Three families of friends at two lakeside cabins in Maine. As I unpacked, I breathed in deeply, closing my eyes, and letting the aroma of the fir trees fill my nostrils.

“Dad was having chest pain and trouble breathing.

Mom and Terri took him to the hospital. Mom said to ask you to drive Josh and me there.”

We spent every summer vacation at our little cabin in these woods. But this year, we were sharing it with friends. I could hardly wait for the fun to begin.

I dressed hastily. She had a cell phone, so I left mine on the table. My three boys were asleep in the loft. I roused my oldest, 17-year-old Jason, and told him what was going on and that I left my cell on the table in case he needed it.

One of my best friends owned the cabin next door to ours. Terri and her family were already unpacked and enjoying the lake in their kayaks. My other bestie, Susan, and her family were on their way, making the trek from Pennsylvania, taking the scenic route.

Thirty minutes later, we walked through the doors of a quiet, empty ER. I told a nurse who we were there to see. She stole a strange glance at another nurse and quietly said, “I’ll get his wife for you.” Susan appeared, wiping her eyes, Terri walking behind her. Both are nurses; their faces were hard to read.

They had stopped at a few towns along the way and enjoyed the typical coastal Maine fare—lobster.

Susan took her children’s hands and said, “Your father had a heart attack. He stopped breathing on our way here.”

I almost cancelled this trip when I learned that my husband wouldn’t be able to join us because of work. He insisted the boys and I go and enjoy ourselves.

Once we arrived at the cabin, I was so glad we decided to come. It is my happy place, where I can completely relax. My heart soared even higher when I saw Susan’s Airstream backing down Terri’s driveway.

Over the first few days, the kids were having a great time together. They biked, kayaked, swam, fished, played cards, squeezed every ounce of activity from every day.

The men were getting projects done, and the ladies were loving the time spent laughing, relaxing, and shopping in Bar Harbor!

Then everything changed. I was sound asleep when Susan’s daughter Juli burst through the door at 3:00 a.m. “Juli, what’s wrong?”

She choked back tears and continued, “Terri and I did CPR along the side of the road and called an ambulance. There was nothing they could do. Dad didn’t make it.”

Nineteen-year-old Juli screamed and collapsed to the floor. Seventeen-year-old Josh’s face crumbled as tears flowed down.

The ER seemed to be tipping or was it me? I couldn’t believe what I was hearing. Susan was supposed to say, “Your father had a heart attack, but he’s doing OK now.”

After we had a chance to sit down and take in what had happened, Josh and Juli went to see their dad and say goodbye.

My sweet friend was a rock. I will never forget what she said to her kids in that ER, “This is part of God’s plan. He is not surprised by it, and he will help us through it.” I love this woman.

We got back to camp around 5:00 a.m. The boys were still sleeping. I grabbed my phone from the table, went outside to the dock where the reception was better, and dialed my home phone number.

My husband answered, sounding concerned. “What happened? What’s wrong?”

Through tears, I squeaked out, “Gary’s dead.”

He said, “I knew something was wrong when you called at 4:00 a.m.”

“I didn’t call. I didn’t have my phone with me, but 4:00 a.m. is exactly when Susan was telling us Gary died.” I told him the rest of the story.

He said, “At 4:00 a.m. the phone rang, but no one was on the other end. Since I am on call, I dialed *69. It was your number.

I tried to call back, but no one answered. I knew you wouldn’t be calling at that time unless something was very wrong.

So, since I couldn’t reach you, I just started praying for you and whatever was going on there.”

“Keep praying. We have a lot of things to work out.”

I hung up and quizzically looked at my phone.

I thought maybe Jason had made the call. But once he was awake, and I told him what had happened, I asked him about the phone.

“Did you call Dad after I left?”

“No, I went back to sleep. I didn’t even come downstairs.”

I looked at the call log – there was no call made from my phone at 4:00 a.m. Yet someone had called my house, woke my husband, and burdened him to pray.

There was only one answer. God borrowed my cell phone—it was an emergency, after all. For the first time that day, I felt the peace of God wash over me.

Why should I be surprised? He can use whatever means he wants to accomplish his purposes.

He could have woken my husband another way, but by using my phone, he showed just how involved he was at that moment in the lives of his children who needed him. His smallest expressions of love are sometimes the greatest.

“And the peace of God, which surpasses all understanding, will guard your hearts and your minds in Christ Jesus.” Philippians 4:7

He'll Always Be Near

by Norma C. Mezoe Through every heartache, sorrow and care...

God promises his children he will always be near....

He will never leave them to struggle alone… for he loves his children and calls them his own.

Authentic Chicken Parmesan Recipe from Jen Reviews

Course Main Course Cuisine Italian Prep Time 20 minutes Cook Time 1 hour Total Time 1 hour 20 minutes Servings 2

Ingredients  2-3 Chicken Breasts  Fresh mozzarella cheese ball  1 cup all-purpose flour  1 cup bread crumbs  3 Tbsp parmesan cheese  3 eggs  ¼ cup vegetable oil  1 box of thin spaghetti noodles  Fresh Parsley Marinara Sauce  2 garlic cloves  3 Tbsp olive oil  1 28 oz can of crushed tomatoes  ⅓ cup red wine  1 Tbsp fresh oregano  1 Tbsp fresh basil  Salt and pepper

Instructions 1. Heat olive oil over medium heat in a large saucepan.

Add thinly sliced garlic cloves and saute for 1-2 minutes.

2. Add red wine to the pan and let it simmer for an additional minute.

3. Combine crushed tomatoes, oregano, and basil with the garlic mixture. Let simmer over low heat for 30-45 minutes.

4. Butterfly the chicken breast by making a horizontal slice halfway without cutting completely through the breast.

5. Fill separate baking trays with flour, egg wash, and bread crumbs. Mix parmesan cheese into bread crumbs. First cover the chicken with flour, then egg wash, and finish it with a thick coating of bread crumbs.

6. Heat oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Cook the chicken until golden brown on one side and flip.

7. Once both sides are sufficiently fried, remove from the pan and place in a baking tray. Cover with marinara sauce and sliced mozzarella cheese. Bake in the oven at 350°F for 20-30 minutes or until the cheese is completely melted.

8. Remove from the oven and serve over a plate of cooked noodles, top with freshly chopped parsley and enjoy!

For step-by-step directions for making Authentic Chicken Parmesan please visit Jen Reviews

Some days it is just TOO hot to cook! On those days you don’t even feel like eating, unless it is something like watermelon or ice cream.

Here are a few cool, creamy yogurt recipes that you can make in the early morning or late in the evening after the sun goes down to be ready for the next morning. Why not try yogurt the next time it is just TOO hot to cook?

How to make your own Yogurt at Home from I’m Addicted to Cooking

Greek Yogurt vs.

Regular Yogurt: What’s the Difference? from Food TV

Strawberry Frozen Yogurt from Simply Recipes

Berry and Honey Yogurt Popsicles from Cookie and Kate

Strawberry Greek Yogurt Popsicles from Housewife Ecclectic

Yogurt Lime Sorbet from Bonappetit All images and recipes are the property of the original websites. RUBY magazine does not own any of the images in this article and they are used only as part of a featured collection. To find any of the original articles, please visit the websites which are linked to each image.

RUBY magazine is now available in print!

Every issue of RUBY magazine can now be purchased as a print publication.

To purchase RUBY magazine in print, please visit the RUBY blog at www.rubyforwomen.com where you will find the link for each issue.

The Hannah Experience: When Nothing seems to be Producing the Desired Effect

by Jennifer Workman “This book extends inspiration to every bibliophile to press forward in prayer and trust God unequivocally despite what they may encounter in life and trust that God is the way and that he will ultimately supply their needs and bring them to their final destination at the appointed time.”

Now available from RUBY’S Reading Corner

Road Trip of Delusion by Jean Ann Williams is available from

RUBY’S Reading Corner

Be watching for the

AUGUST 2018 issue of

RUBY magazine Available August 1, 2018 on the

RUBY blog www.rubyforwomen.com

Shopping for books to add to your summer reading list?

Come on over to

RUBY’S Reading Corner where you will find family-friendly, inspirational books, devotionals, Bibles, Christian fiction, biographies, children’s books, and so much more!

RUBY’S Reading Corner http://rubyforwomen.com/rubys-reading-corner-2/

Creating beautiful designs and décor for your graceful home

Visit Graceful Home Studio for inspirational, seasonal, and holiday home décor items that will reflect the grace and joy of family life in your home.

Ruby Writing Team Sharon Patterson, retired educator, career military wife, and leader in women's ministry, has written inspirational encouragement in various forms from greeting cards to short stories, poetry, and Bible studies for over thirty years. She has authored three books, and is a contributing author for several of the Chicken Soup for the Soul books. She and her husband Garry live in Round Rock, Texas. They have three sons and five grandchildren.

Theresa Begin lives in Northern California, where she was born and raised. She is a Christian who loves her family and says, “I have been blessed with the world’s best parents!” She has three sisters and one brother, as well as 16 beautiful nieces and nephews who “mean the world to me!” She is “differently-abled,” and chooses not to allow her limitations to define her life. She loves to write and share her various projects on her blog, “Shoestring Elegance,” which came about as she discovered that living on a tight budget did not mean compromising on style. “Nothing is impossible with God.” Luke 1:37 NLT

Shara Bueler-Repka is enjoying life as a singer/songwriter/recording artist, freelance writer, and award-winning author. She and her husband, Bruce, live in their living quarters horse trailer and call “home” wherever their rig is parked. Their mailbase, however, is Hallettsville, Texas. She also loves riding/ministering with her husband and their horses (aka The Boys) in the backcountry and writing about God’s grace in the various adventures on the trail less-traveled. Join the fun and be encouraged on their website: www.ponyexpressministry.com and her blog: www.trailtails.blogspot.com, or come for a visit on Facebook.

Carol Peterson, Author

My mission as a writer is to educate, entertain and inspire–children, their teachers and parents, other writers, and readers of all genres.

As a children’s writer I try to “Make Learning Fun” by helping busy teachers address curriculum accountability standards, and encouraging other writers to do the same.

You can connect with Carol at her blog, Carol Peterson, Author Carol is a member of the Ruby Book Review Team.

Writer-speaker, Kathryn Ross is Pageant Wagon Publishing—igniting God’s Word and biblical principles as a vibrant light of literacy and learning in the life of your Christian family. Inspired by the stillness of birdsong, silent reflection, antiques, and teatime, she filters her love of history, classic literature, and the arts through God’s Word, to inform her words. Her passion to equip women and families in developing a Family Literacy Lifestyle produces readers and thinkers who can engage the world from a biblical worldview. In addition, she mentors authors as a book shepherd, assisting them in the development, editing, design, and production of the book God has called them to write. Miss Kathy blogs and podcasts at www.thewritersreverie.com and www.pageantwagonpublishing.com

Jehn Kubiak is a Biola University journalism graduate and current pastoral care and counseling major at the Talbot School of Theology. She is a San Diego native who enjoys distance swimming, coffee, dogs, and painting. She loves researching and writing about people, sports, activities, and more.

Norma C. Mezoe began writing after a crisis in her life. She has been a published writer for thirty years. Her writing has appeared in books, devotionals, take-home papers and magazines. She lives in the tiny town of Sandborn, Indiana where she is active in her church as clerk, teacher and bulletin maker. Contact at: normacm@tds.net

Lisa Radcliff is a writer, speaker, women's Bible study teacher, and a 35-year volunteer youth worker, residing in Pennsburg, PA. She is a wife, mom, and mommom who loves God's Word but also loves football, chocolate, shoes, and Maine.

Her hobbies include quilting, shopping, cooking, and raising Seeing Eye puppies.

You can reach her at lisajradcliff@gmail.com.

Nancy Frantel lives in Virginia, and is a published author of three history books, public speaker and researcher. Prior to becoming a writer she worked in corporate management. A “life interruption” injury in 2010 limited her ability to work as a writer. In 2017, she attended several Christian writing conferences, and felt led to start over in a different genre. Her goal is to write inspirational and encouraging stories based on her experiences, lessons learned by trusting God, and individuals He provides along the way.

Se Johnson writes, photographs and gardens from her home near the tidal marshes of the Delaware Bay. Her work is inspired by the glory of God’s creation and the nuances of light in life, from that of literal sunshine to the shadow-dispelling joy of serving her Creator. Herding three cats, two children and a husband, keeps her busy between editing flowerbeds and weeding paragraphs. She is the editor of 'Garden Cumberland', a gardener’s resource that encourages others to find their hearts in the sunshine and soil of South Jersey. https://www.facebook.com/GardenCumberland

Krista Lynn Campbell lives in Pennsylvania with her husband of 35 years. She serves as a child advocate with Compassion International, and has recently entered the joyful world of grandparenthood. Her big loves in life are Jesus, family, and football. You can visit Krista Lynn on her blog at www.kristalynncampbell.com

Cynthia Knisley After years as a “stay-at-home” mom, Cynthia enjoyed a fulfilling second career as a high school language teacher and curriculum developer.

Recently, she took a leap of faith and left the classroom in order to devote more time to family---aging parents, adult children, and lively young grandchildren. Her home is in West Chester, PA, where she plays classical music, bakes bread, and tends a “secret garden.” A novice blogger, she welcomes you to her posts at faithtofigs@myblog.com.

Gloria Doty is a published Christian author, writer and speaker. She has published a non-fiction book, a devotion book, a series of fiction romance books and several children's picture books. Gloria has 5 adult children and 13 grandchildren. She has recently re-married and she and her husband reside in Fort Wayne, IN.

Sharmelle Olson is a graphic artist and designer, photographer and poet. She loves to share her poems in the Ruby for Women community magazine. Shar is also an administrator for Ruby for Women Ministries and enjoys helping out around the community and making new friends there. She has been writing poetry and taking photographs since elementary school, and started doing graphic art and design work in the early 2000s. Shar has four children, two of whom are twins. Her first daughter is 21, her son is 15, and her twin daughters are 14.

Donna Powell is a Christian wife and mother, and a Certified Interior Designer. After leaving a demanding career to take care of her father, Donna now spends most of her time blogging about home decor and renovating her mid-century modern home located in the hills of East Tennessee. Her blog can be found at www.modernonmonticello.com She has been married to Brian for 27 years, an Army veteran and Physician Assistant working in Neurosurgery. Donna and Brian have two grown children. When they aren't renovating their rental property or planning a future in flipping houses, they also take in abused and rescue animals and currently have four dogs, a cat, and a rabbit.

Miriam Jacob is a reviewer at Oxford Academic, Oxford University Press; a blog reviewer at Revell Reads, Baker Publishing Group; member of the Bible Gateway Blogger Grid, Christian Authors Network and Ruby Book Review Team; Google Scholar and Researcher at Academia.edu; ebook author and poet; top reviewer at NetGalley, Christian Book Distributors, Barnes and Noble, Google Books and Goodreads. Miriam is a reviewer at Tyndale House Publishers; Moody Press; Barbour Books; Harvest House; New Hope Publishers; Penguin; HarperCollins Christian; Abingdon Press; WaterBrook & Multnomah; and Discovery House.

Miriam's articles and poems are published at Blogger, Faithwriters, PoemHunter, ProBoards, Weebly and WordPress. Her writings are published on her two blogs at www.miriamjacob.wordpress.com & www.authorsforchrist.blogspot.com

Nina Newton, Sr. Editor:

When my four older children were in school, I returned to college as a “non-traditional student.” Eventually, I earned degrees in Classics and Philosophy, and a graduate degree in Medieval Studies: History of Theology. After teaching at a small community college in Michigan for seven years, my husband and I were blessed with the adoption of our two beautiful daughters, Gracie and Annie. We live in northern Indiana in a small farming community where I work on RUBY magazine in my home office. I have worked for several years offering my handmade and refashioned garments and accessories in a local boutique under the creative name of “Vintage Mama’s Cottage.” My personal blog is at www.vintagemamascottage.com

RUBY magazine is published by CreativeLife