Ruby for Women, November, 2011 by RUBY magazine

Ruby for Women A voice for every Christian woman November, 2011

Thanksgiving Issue!

â&#x20AC;&#x153;Her worth is far above rubiesâ&#x20AC;? Proverbs: 31:10

Contents November, 2011 www.rubyforwomen.ning.com

November is the month when we all begin to feel the excitement of the upcoming holidays. Thanksgiving is a time when we celebrate family and friends, and it is a time to remember the gifts that God has given us. Our country, our homes, our families, our friends are all blessings for which we give thanks. In this issue of Ruby for Women you will find recipes and crafts to brighten your celebration of the Thanksgiving holiday, as well as articles that will inspire and encourage you through each day of the month. We are so glad you are here to share the joy of Thanksgiving with us, your friends at Ruby for Women! Senior Editor Nina Newton Assistant Editor Amanda Johnson Creative Assistant Katherine Corrigan Family Fun Editor Beth Brubaker Gardening Thomas B. Clarke, Dorothy Homer Devotions Lynn Mosher, Deborah McCarragher Poetry Keith Wallis, Lee E. Shilo

In This Issue . . . Page

Title

Nothing to Steal Nina Newton, Sr. Editor

Season of Thanksgiving Amanda Johnson

Visiting Day on Sunday Deidre Knight

November Book Give-Away “A Christmas Journey Home” by Kathi Macias

Four-Layer Pumpkin Cake Vintage Mama

Thanksgiving: What Does it Mean to You? Deborah McCarragher

Thanksgiving Napkin Rings Vintage Image Craft

Page 7

Page 10

What’s Your Angel IQ? Elizabeth Baker

Introducing Amanda Stephan, Author

Ask Beth Beth Brubaker

Autumn Sky Lee E. Shilo

Holiday Tinnitus Carol Mokry

Page 16

Ruby for Women is an online Christian women’s magazine that offers words of hope, inspiration, and encouragement to women everywhere. Knowing that every woman has a story to tell, we seek to give “voice to every Christian woman,” from all walks of life, of every age, from all around the world. For advertising inquiries, please contact our Advertising Administrator, Angela Morris at amorris@rubyforwomen.com

If you would like to share your story with Ruby for Women, please email our Assistant Editor, Amanda Feature Writers Carol Mokry, Connie Arnold, Heide Johnson, at ajohnson@rubyforwomen.com Also, Louise Wright, Kristin Bridgman, Amy Lignor, Sheila please visit our community website at Watson Kraklow, Scott Henderson, Theresa www.rubyforwomen.ning.com where you can connect Ceniccola, Scarlett Von Gunten, Charlotte Siems, with other women. Yvonne Anderson, Angela Blake Morris, Kausar Ruby for Women Iqbal, Deidre Knight, Elizabeth Baker, Maxine 2731 W 700 N Young, Pauline Creeden Columbia City, IN 46725 1 editor@rubyforwomen.com Quilting Laura Brandt

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Title

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Gardening with Ruby for Women Sponsored by Thomas B. Clarke

Thanksgiving Quilt Decoration Vintage Image Craft

Love from the Prayer Garden: Gentleness Thomas B. Clarke

Thanksgiving with the Family Word Search Beth Brubaker

November Hurry Aunt Dots

Can You Take a Compliment? Maxine Young

Squash and Apple Bake Aunt Dots

Vintage Paper Dolls Vintage Mama

Hot Spiced Cider Maxine Young

Traveling Trust Amanda Johnson

Thanksgiving Food Word Search Beth Brubaker

Stolen Moments in the Gardened Day Keith Wallis

Hot Spiced Cranberry Cider Maxine Young

Introducing Elizabeth Baker, Author

Christmas Monkey Pie Elizabeth Baker

Thanksgiving Crafts and Hospitality Vintage Image Craft

Katherineâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s Corner Book Club Katherine Corrigan

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Page 28 Page 25

Wassail Punch Maxine Young

A Carpet for the King Keith Wallis

Cowboy Caviar Salad Kausar Iqbal

Can You be Thankful for Fleas? Lynn Mosher

Un-buried Treasure Deidre Knight

Introducing Angela De Souza, Author

Walls of Jericho Quilt Block Laura Brandt

Amy Carmichael of Dohnavur Fellowship

Getting a Fresh Thanksgiving Turkey Sheila Kraklow

Hast Thou No Scar? Amy Carmichael

Footprints in the Mud: Leftover Day Beth Brubaker

Hummus Recipe Kausar Iqbal

As If

Word Search Answer Key Beth Brubaker

Word Scramble Answer key Beth Brubaker

Introducing the Ruby for Women Administrative Team

Meet the Ruby for Women Writers

Credits and Copyrights

Keith Wallis 42

Lesson from a Spiderâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s Web Pauline Creeden

Autumn Confetti Salad Vintage Mama

Hot Chai Latte Maxine Young

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http://www.laiseoriginals.com 2

National Novel Writing Month

National Adoption Awareness Month

Peanut Butter Lovers Month

November 1: All Saints Day November 3: Housewife’s Day November 3: Sandwich Day November 5: Book Lovers Day November 8: Young Readers Day November 11: Veteran’s Day November 12: Chicken Soup for the Soul Day November 13: World Kindness Day November 15: Clean your Refrigerator Day

November 16: Button Day November 16: Have a Party with your Bear Day November 17: Homemade Bread Day November 19: National Adoption Day November 20: Universal Children’s Day November 23: Eat a Cranberry Day November 24: THANKSGIVING DAY November 27: Pins and Needles Day November 29: Square Dance Day 3

Nothing to Steal by Nina Newton, Sr. Editor

“The thief comes only to steal and kill and destroy; I have come that they may have life, and have it to the full.” John 10:10 It could be my age. We all get to a place in life where, if we’re paying attention, we discover that “stuff” will never make us happy. Besides that, we learn in Proverbs that “poor” people have no need to fear the thief because they have nothing of value that a thief would want to steal! When we begin to understand where true joy in life comes from, then we also recognize that not only can a thief “steal” our material “stuff,” but if our focus is always on striving for more and more and more “stuff,” that “stuff” actually becomes the thief that “steals and kills and destroys” our joy.

As time goes by, I’ve waded through a bunch of “stuff” and find that I now have far fewer things that need to be dusted and washed . . . . which gives me MORE time for cuddling up and reading with my girls, going for a walk and holding hands with my sweet hubby, writing all of the words and stories that God has put into my heart., and sewing jammies for the grandbabies (more “stuff” for their mamas to wash!) When we realize that all of the material possessions in the universe will not make us happy, and it will not give us the joy that we all seek to discover in life, we finally open our eyes to what TRUE joy and abundant living is all about. Jesus cam not only to save us from the penalty of our sins and redeem us from the bondage and slavery of our old nature, but He came to provide that which no thief can ever steal or destroy.

Of course we all need a certain amount of “stuff” just to survive. We need clothing, and a house, and most of us need a car. We need food . . . but what else do we REALLY need? In the past couple of years, many of us have had to wrestle with that reality in our daily lives. What do we REALLY need? I’ve also leaned that the more “stuff” I have, the more work it takes just to keep up with it all! Seems like whatever comes into our lives, whether it be material possessions or people, it all needs to be painted, dusted, washed, fed, read to, tucked in, kissed and hugged, taken for a walk, or driven somewhere. Now, most of that is a good thing – I’m grateful for the people in my life who need to be hugged and kissed, fed, read to, tucked in, helped with homework, driven to this or that activity. But the other “stuff” just seems to take up my time and attention, that I would usually rather spend on doing something else.

Today I chose to rest in His provision of grace, peace, and confidence that if I obey Him and walk in the pathway that He has put before me, even if I can’t see around the next bend in the road, there will be joy. There will also be bumps along the way, and sometimes I have even been known to fall off the edge of a cliff and wander around in the darkness for a while before I find my way back to the light of His love . . . . but what I have in Him can never be found in more “stuff,” and it is definitely not something that can be taken away. There is no thief powerful enough to destroy that which He 4 gives!

Season of Thanksgiving Amanda Johnson, Assistant Editor

Welcome to the season of Thanksgiving! Thankfulness, of course, is something to celebrate all year, but November is typically the season in which everyone (no matter background or religion) reflects on life and gives thanks for the many blessings in life. It’s also a time of year when people are more receptive to hearing about the love of Christ and our greatest reason to give thanks, which is Christ’s sacrifice on the cross as payment for our sins! Thanksgiving Day serves as a day of remembrance for me. It’s a time to reflect over the past year and the numerous lessons learned, blessings received, and steps of faith taken. It’s an opportunity to praise the Lord specifically for the trials that have stretched my faith and the reminders that He is always with me walking me through each and every day. One of these blessings was the opportunity I had back in October to visit the Gethsemane Prayer Garden, A Garden of Love, located in Syracuse, NY. This is the very garden in which our Ruby for Women contributor and published author Thomas B. Clarke oversees and writes about in this e-zine and in his book “The Garden of Love” (Check it out on Amazon!). I was blessed to meet Tom, tour the garden, and spend some quiet time alone with God in prayer. The garden is such a unique place filled with so many reminders of our loving Heavenly Father.

Many times throughout the Old Testament the Israelites set aside pillars of stones as a reminder to all who pass by that the Lord is a mighty God who protects His people and keeps His promises. One particular example is when the people crossed the Jordan River while transporting the Ark of the Covenant. The Lord God stopped the river from flowing so that the Ark and the people crossed the river on dry ground. The Lord told Joshua to have one member from each of the twelve tribes take a stone from the Jordan and place them together as a memorial of God’s power and might so that future generations would know and believe (Joshua 4:1-8). In 1863, President Abraham Lincoln issued a proclamation officially declaring Thanksgiving Day as a National Holiday and more importantly as a day to give thanks to God for His provisions. “I do therefore invite my fellow citizens in every part of the United States, and also those who are at sea and those who are sojourning in foreign lands, to set apart and observe the last Thursday of November next, as a day of Thanksgiving and Praise to our beneficent Father who dwelleth in the Heavens.” I invite you to join me in setting aside Thanksgiving Day as a day of remembrance of the Lord’s great works and a time to especially give thanks for His provision. I also invite you to join me in dedicating the day as an official memorial stone marking God’s mercy and love not only for us, but also for future generations. “Give thanks to the LORD, for he is good. His love endures forever.” (Psalm 136:1)

Towards the center of the garden there is a pile of stones stacked upon each other. Tom told me these stones were placed by members of the church as a memorial and a reminder of the miraculous way the Lord provided funds for the church’s building, the grounds and of course the garden. 5

Visiting Day on Sunday by Deidre Knight “How was your trip Sara May?” Upon my arrival at the care home, I was informed that grandma was in the bathroom. Knowing it could be a while, I pulled a kitchen chair into the TV room and sat beside grandma’s Lazy-boy to await her return. Above the drone of a football game on the big screen and soft snorting from the sleeping man in the chair next to grandma’s, I could hear a faint intermittent knocking coming from somewhere in the room. I surveyed the room for logical sources as the knock became more insistent. Two other men in the room appeared to be calmly watching the game, no tapping feet (they all wore only socks) or rapping knuckles. When the Packers scored a touchdown the men clapped and hooted, awakening the sleeping one, who sat up with a start. “What? Who’s there? What time is it?” he cried.

“Oh, quite lovely! Tea and crumpets were divine.” She gushed. Returning to my seat by Grandma’s, I gave a bright smile as the caregiver brought my dear one to her Lazy-boy. “Hi, Grandma!” I said cheerily. “Hello.” She replied warily, as one would answer a phone without caller I.D. “How are you today?” I ventured. “Have you seen my Rosie?” she fixed me with a piercing blue stare. “It’s me, Grandma. “ I willed my eyes not to tear up. “I’ve missed you since Wednesday.” “They’re stealing my socks.” She reported.

Suddenly a very loud bang drew my attention to the closet door. On impulse I ran to investigate, yanking open the door to a sweet looking lady in Sunday clothes, complete with a tiny veiled hat perched atop her silver-blue hair. “At last,” she said in her charming English accent. “I’ve been waiting for a car to take me to the bank.” She displayed a beaded handbag hanging on her arm. In one hand she held the shiny white pump that obviously made the final sound. “Here,” I said. “Let me help you with your shoe.” Once I had the shoe back on I suggested she wait somewhere more comfortable. “I’m waiting for a car.” She repeated but allowed me to lead her to the ladies TV room across the kitchen where three women enjoyed a show on the Hallmark channel. As I helped her settle into a vacant easy chair, the other women greeted her warmly.

“Of course they’re not. Who could ever fit your tiny feet?” I reasoned. Caregivers were assisting the others to the dining room table for Sunday supper and I knew they’d come for Grandma soon. “I’ll bring more socks next time, Grandma.” I noted her initials written in indelible ink on the ones she wore. “Is Dallas winning?” she inquired about the game. “It’s the Raiders and the Packers playing now, Grandma.” “I sure love my Cowboys!” she declared with enthusiasm. “I know you do. And your favorite song is Moon River,” I said. 6

“Never heard of it!” she retorted and began to hum the tune.

“Yes Ma’am.” I managed to keep the tears in check till I’d locked the door of the visitor entry.

“Are you ready for supper, Miss Irene?” the caregiver asked.

The caregivers could never explain what was happening to the socks I kept replacing, but after grandma passed away, among her belongings I found a five pound Christmas Popcorn Tin filled with her socks.

“Oh yes!” she exclaimed, offering one of her killer smiles. I kissed her and promised I’d see her on Wednesday. “You tell Rosie I love her, won’t you?”

In time I understood that the tears I cried were for me, for my loss. For by that stage, Grandma truly didn’t know me, but she also didn’t know she didn’t know. For that I am grateful.

November Book Give-Away from Ruby for Women

A Christmas Journey Home by Kathi Macias During Isabella Alcantara’s seventh month of pregnancy, her parents and siblings are murdered in gang- and drug-related violence, simply because their home was targeted by mistake. Isabella knows she was spared only because she now lives in a different location, but she knows too that the same thing could easily happen to her and her husband, Francisco. When her grandfather offers to hire a “coyote” to bring them across the border to America, she agrees. But Francisco and Isabella are abandoned by the coyote and left to die. Francisco then valiantly sacrifices himself to get Isabella to safety. Homeless, nearly penniless, pregnant, and alone, Isabella determines to find a way to honor her promise to her beloved husband. Living on one of the smaller spreads along the Arizona border, Miriam Nelson becomes furious with God and turns from her faith when her border patrol agent husband, David, is killed in a skirmish with drug smugglers. Though her mother and young son do their best to woo her back from the anger and bitterness that have overtaken her, they make little headway. Two widows—one driven by fear and a promise, the other by bitterness and revenge—must make their journeys along different pathways, but with the same destination: a barn full of animals that stands waiting for them on Christmas Eve. Forced to face their personal demons, Isabella and Miriam soon discover a common yearning that will bind them together in a most miraculous way. 7

Yummy Four-Layer Pumpkin Cake Make up this beautiful and delicious Pumpkin Cake for your family’s Thanksgiving dinner and you’ll put a smile on everyone’s face! A sweet twist on the traditional pumpkin pie, this Four-Layer Pumpkin Cake is as pretty as it is yummy. This one just might become the newest family tradition for your Thanksgiving Day! What you need: 1 pkg yellow cake mix (2 layer size) 1 can pumpkin, 15 oz, divided ½ c. milk 1/3 c. oil 4 eggs 1 ½ tsp pumpkin pie spice, divided 1 pkg Philadelphia cream cheese, softened (8 oz.) 1 c. powdered sugar 1 container of Cool Whip Whipped Topping, thawed (8 oz.) ¼ cup caramel ice cream topping ¼ c. chopped Planters pecans Let’s make it! HEAT oven to 350°F. BEAT cake mix, 1 cup pumpkin, milk, oil, eggs and 1 tsp. spice in large bowl with mixer until well blended. Pour into 2 greased and floured 9-inch round pans. BAKE 28 to 30 min. or until toothpick inserted in centers comes out clean. Cool in pans 10 min. Remove from pans to wire racks; cool completely. BEAT cream cheese in medium bowl with mixer until creamy. Add sugar, remaining pumpkin and spice; mix well. Gently stir in COOL WHIP. Cut each cake layer horizontally in half with serrated knife; stack on serving plate, spreading cream cheese filling between layers. (Do not frost top layer.) Drizzle with caramel topping just before serving; top with nuts. Refrigerate leftovers. You can frost the whole cake if you like with any left over frosting Modified from a recipe found at www.betterrecipes.com where you can find other great recipes for Thanksgiving. 8

Thanksgiving – What does it mean to you? by Deborah McCarragher The concept of thanksgiving is as old as civilization itself. Webster defines it as: the act of giving thanks; a prayer expressing gratitude; a public acknowledgment or celebration of divine goodness. As Christians, we acknowledge God’s goodness and provision in our expression of Thanksgiving. God’s Word implores us to give thanks to Him. Both Old and New Testament books of the Bible encourage us to have an attitude of gratitude. Psalm 50:14 tells us to, “Offer to God thanksgiving.” Psalm 95:2 says, “Let us come before His presence with thanksgiving…” The Apostle Paul, in Philippians 4:6 declares, “…in everything by prayer and supplication, with thanksgiving, let your requests be made known to God.” We are to develop and display a grateful heart. Our expression of gratefulness to God is found in our praise of Who God IS. He is El Elyon – The Most High. In Genesis 14, Melchizedek, King of Salem blessed Abram and said, “Blessed be Abram of God Most High [El Elyon], possessor of heaven and earth; and blessed be God Most High, who has delivered your enemies into your hand.” He is the omnipotent God, the one who rules and reigns eternal. He is also Adonai – Lord, Master, and Owner. In Genesis 15, God told Abram he would be his shield and reward. Abram said, “O Lord [Adonai], GOD [Jehovah], what wilt Thou give me, since I am childless?” God was his Lord and Master of all things concerning him. The most sacred name for God is Jehovah GOD (Yahweh). He is the all selfexistent God who spoke everything into being.

In Exodus 3 we see the dialog between Moses and Jehovah as follows: “And God said to Moses, ‘I AM WHO I AM’; and later He said, “The LORD [Jehovah], the God of your fathers, the God of Abraham, the God of Isaac, and the God of Jacob, has sent me to you.” Heartfelt thanksgiving for Who God IS blesses us and blesses Him. We often don’t display thankfulness for those closest to us. Family, friends and co-workers are often short-changed when it comes to giving thanks. We all but forget their worthiness of our expressions of gratefulness. I thank God for my husband who is generous, devoted, trustworthy, and responsible. Thanking God for our children, though not perfect, keeps them at the center of our prayers and praises. Find a friend and thank them for their encouragement or support during a difficult time. Your co-worker may need thanking for the kind comment they shared at your last office meeting. Thank a stranger for their service and dedication to their profession. Thank your pastor or layminister for a message or bible study they shared. Thank your parents for their valuable love and wisdom afforded you over the years. Express your thanksgiving in a tangible way. Express it often – and always in love. Finally, thank Jesus for your salvation. If we had nothing else to be thankful for, that would be sufficient. Oh, how we thank Him for rescuing us from certain destruction and eternal doom. In II Corinthians 9:15 Paul says this, “Thanks be to God for His indescribable gift!” May we continually strive to express that Gift to all we meet. Happy Thanksgiving – May Blessings Abound Always and in All Things! 9

Set your table in vintage style with these easy Thanksgiving Napkin Rings from Vintage Image Craft We got this idea for these Thanksgiving Napkin Rings from an antique pop up book, believe it or not. These vintage-look napkin rings are a simple paper craft that create an eye-catching threedimensional decoration for your holiday table. So simple even older children can make them, but attractive enough that you'll want to save them for next year. The hardest part of this craft for us was choosing the perfect Thanksgiving vintage images. Turkey is a very popular symbol for this all-American holiday, and we found hundreds of illustrated turkeys in all stages of life - and gastronomic after-life. We chose a very traditional turkey, visibly proud of his role. Then we thought, "What about vegetarians?" For you, we chose a vintage image of a very thankful child, bowed over his plate, but with his napkin firmly tied under his chin for what comes next.

Materials for Thanksgiving Napkin Rings • • • • • • • • • •

Vintage images (see below) printed on heavyweight photo paper (one for each napkin). Matting paper. Any medium weight paper will work. We used 4 1/2" X 6 1/2" pieces of red construction paper for each ring (see Tips). Scrap paper. Craft glue or glue stick. Transparent tape. Decorative edge scissors. Scissors or paper cutter. Craft knife. Self-healing cutting mat. Optional embellishments: ribbon, dried wheat or small flowers (see Tips).

Instructions 1. Trim the vintage image with scissors or paper cutter.

2. Cut a 6" X 1/2" strip of scrap paper. Secure the image to a cutting mat. Position the strip of paper vertically down the exact center of the image (2 3/4") and secure it with tape to the mat. With a craft knife, cut around the outline of the turkey, except for the 1/2" at the top and bottom that is covered by the paper strip. 3. Glue the image to a piece of matting paper (we used 4 1/2" X 6 1/2" red construction paper), applying glue around the outside edges only and carefully avoiding the cut-out turkey section. Let the glue dry. 4. With decorative edge scissors, trim the mat around the image, leaving a 1/4" border. 5. Gently curl the image until the short sides slightly overlap in the back, and secure them together with a piece of transparent tape. Adjust the sides of the cut-out turkey until it stands out from the ring. 6. Fold your napkin and roll it into a tight tube. Slide it into the napkin ring, and fluff it up a little. 7. Repeat the above for each guest at your table and wait for the "Where did you get these adorable napkin rings?" comments.

Tips This photo of the "non-turkey" version shows a variation on how you can arrange the napkin. The napkin was tightly accordion-folded, inserted into the ring, and fluffed. â&#x20AC;˘ Any kind of medium-weight paper can be used for the decorative matting paper behind the vintage image. For other parties, we made a set with metallic gold paper to match the flatware, and a set that matched the blue tablecloth. Match the yams, if that's what you want! â&#x20AC;˘ These Thanksgiving napkin rings lend themselves to all sorts of embellishment, if you want to make the project harder. Slip some stalks of dried wheat or dried flowers under the pop up image from both sides. Instead of securing the back with tape, go classy and thread a wide ribbon under the image and tie it in a bow at the back. Add glitter highlights to the picture. Personalize each place setting by leaving a 1/2" mat border below the image and handwriting the guest's name on it. â&#x20AC;˘

Images can also be found at:

http://www.vintageimagecraft.com/support-files/thanksgiving-napkin-rings.pdf 12

Whatâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s Your Angel IQ? by Elizabeth Baker QUESTIONS: 1. Do people become angels when they die? 2. What does an angel look like? 3. Do angels have wings? 4. Can angels sing? 5. Do angels eat? 6. Can you name one angel? 7. Can you name three things angels do? 8. What is the one thing a human must never give an angel? 9. Do humans have Guardian angels? 10. Do angels have feelings? ANSWERS: 1. Do people become angels when they die? No. Angels are one order of created being and humans are another. Humans are born, live, die and are resurrected as humans (Genesis 3:19 & 5:3; Revelation 6:9; I Thessalonians 4:16-18). Angels are not humans, they are sent by God to serve humans who are destined to inherit eternal life (Hebrew 1:13-14). 13

2. What does an angel look like? Adult, human males. On those rare occasions when angels have been seen by humans, they are described as looking like adult, human males (Luke 24:4). While we have no reason to assume they are limited to that form of physical expression, neither do we have any other description given in the Bible. 3. Do angels have wings? No. The Bible specifically states that Seraphim, Cherubim and Living Creatures have wings, but angels probably do not. Although they do move through the air (Daniel 9:20-23), wings are never mentioned. We probably assume wings because every flying thing we know on earth has them, but this is not necessarily true. And, since angels have occasionally been mistaken for adult humans, wings are unlikely—people who saw them would probably have noticed that detail. 4. Can angels sing? No. We often think of angels as making music and refer to them as singing or playing harps, but this is not supported by any biblical text. While angels do praise God by speaking antiphonally, (Revelation 16:5-7) and often announce God’s praise through the spoken word (Luke 2:13-14), harps and singing are not part of their repertoire. 5. Do angels eat? Yes. Angels ate with Abraham (Genesis 18:1-8 & 19:1) and the manna God provided for Israel in the desert is referred to as “angel food” (Psalm 78:25). 6. Give the name of two angels. Gabriel (Daniel 8:16; 9:21; Luke 1:19 & 26) Michael (Daniel 10:15, Jude 1:9)Lucifer (Isaiah 14:12) 7. Can you name three things angels do for people? Deliver messages from God (Judges 13; II Kings 1:3; Zechariah 2:3-4; Mathew 2:13; Acts 10:3-5) Evaluate humans and situations (Genesis 18; Zechariah 1:8-11; Revelation 21:17) 14

Protect individuals (Psalms 91:11; Luke 4:10; Daniel 3:28) Administer justice (Genesis 19; Numbers 22:21-35; II Samuel 24:5-25) Warn of danger (Matthew 2:13-23; Revelation 8:13) Help (Genesis 24:39-40) Guard (Psalm 34:7) 8. What is the one thing a human must never give an angel? Worship. Although seeing an angel in his natural state can be a terrifying experience (I Chronicles 21:20; Isaiah 6), the worship of angels is strictly forbidden (Revelation 22:8-9; Colossians 2:18). Giving worship to an angel is an affront to God. 9. Do humans have Guardian angels? Probably, although the term is never directly used in the Bible. Angels are assigned to particular humans for specific tasks (Acts 12:15; Daniel 10:21; Matthew 18:10). Jesus looked at a group of children and spoke of “their angels” (Matthew 18:10). When the church was surprised by Peter’s release from prison, they first thought it was “his angel” (Acts 12:15). 10. Do angels have feelings? Yes. The Bible refers to heavenly angels as rejoicing (Luke 15:10) and fallen angels as being in pain (Matthew 8:29). In Luke 1:18-19 Gabriel seems to be rather ticked off because Zachariah did not take him at his word. Score Key: Give yourself ten points for each correct answer. Add partial credit if you got some of the answer and feel like giving yourself a break. If you know enough Bible to argue intelligently with any conclusion of the author, add 20 points to your score. 90 – 100

You are an angel expert. Gabriel would be proud!

75 – 89

Very good. Your Guardian is smiling.

60 – 74

Good score. You’ve been studying.

45 – 59

OK, but you might need to dig a little deeper.

30 – 44

Poor—maybe you had an off day.

Below 30

Be careful, Lucifer is watching! 15

Introducing Amanda Stephan, Christian Author “A couple of years ago, I wrote a love letter in fiction form to my children. I had a specific lesson I wanted them to learn. As happens so many times, when we parents or Sunday school teachers try to teach something, eyes glaze over, and ears stop hearing. This is why I wrote a Christian novel. My plan was to print it out and give each of our children a copy of the book. My husband asked me to try to have it published, so I did. The rest is history. See, God didn't call me to be a missionary to an exotic land away from my home. He gave me a mission field right here. This is my purpose for writing. To help spread God's love and message to those who need it.” Amanda’s newest book is “Lonely Hearts,” published through TreasureLine Publishing and now available at Ruby’s Reading Corner on the Ruby for Women blog and on the Ruby community site.

“Lonely Hearts” by Amanda Stephan One lonely mother; two matchmaking kids; three eligible bachelors; and some very yummy apple pie . . . . When widow Becky Callis moves to a new town, she thought it would be easier to start over in a place where she’s not reminded of her dead husband. Her kids, on the other hand, take it as a chance to help their mother start over romantically. The only problem is that there seems to be quite a few eligible bachelors they can chose from! The soon realize it’s easier to find someone to like their mother than it is to figure out which man is best for her. Even though this handsome cowboy is younger than Becky, Scott makes his interest plain and starts courting her almost immediately, to the delight of both kids. Jack and Becky have been friends since childhood. When they’re reunited years after their lives have taken very different paths, this lonely preacher begins to wonder if God has brought her back into his life for a reason. Pearce Morgan is a single parent raising his young daughter. Divorced and disillusioned, an unlikely friendship arises between him and Becky when his shy daughter decides she loves Becky and her kids. Lonely Hearts, a story of second chances, choices, and yummy apple pie was released in October through TreasureLine Publishing. 16

Ask Beth by Beth Brubaker Dear Beth, I'm planning a 'Getting to Know You' party and was wondering if there were any ice breaker games we can play?

--Fun N Games Dear Fun,

2. Pass the Parcel

Yes! There are a few you can try- Just make sure there are some inexpensive 'prizes' for those that win!

You have a gift wrapped in several different layers of wrapping paper. The gift gets handed to one person (you decide who by having people guess a number you're thinking of).

1. What's in your purse? The game starts with a list of things a woman might have in her purse. The idea is to see who has the most unusual items, or the most of a single item. The woman with the highest (or most unusual) item gets a point. The winner is the one with the most points! Ask things like: * A picture with the most people in it * The oldest coin * Highest check number (if they have checkbooks) * The most electronic devices (must have a battery) * The most makeup * The most unusual color of makeup * The heaviest purse * The biggest purse * The most key chains * The most unusual item (there must be a vote on this one) Anything else you can think of can be added to the list, but don't make the list too long this is all for fun!

The person takes off the first layer. Under each layer of paper are instructions (pass to player on the left, the person across from you, pass to the right, third person down) and that person takes off the next layer. The last person to take off the last layer gets the gift! 3. Telegrams A ten to fifteen letter word is passed out (i.e. blackberries) and everyone has to make a telegram using the letters in order. Periods are allowed to break up the message. For example: BLACKBERRIES: Bring Lamp And Chisel. Know Best Entry Route. Rest Is Easy. Sid. Prizes can go to the first to finish, or the funniest telegram! Do you have a question for me? Please send your question with the words 'Ask Beth' in the subject line, to bethatruby@aol.com. I would love to hear from you!

Autumn Sky by Lee E. Shilo

The air was filled with autumn red, of yellow, brown, and green. As I walked along a path of leaves, down to the running stream. I heard the crackling of the ground, with every step I took. And, with every tree I found, it moved, and swayed, and shook. The leaves that fell, were Parsons brown, and broke upon the freezing ground, where other treasures lie. I finally reached the running stream, frozen, in a frozen dream, beneath the autumn sky.

Holiday Tinnitus by Carol Mokry As is the norm in our century-plus old farmhouse a two hour project often takes up the whole day. Such was the case when hubby and I installed a new ceiling fan with light. We struggled and laughed, got frustrated, and stepped out of the clamor more than once to refocus. At the end of the day the fan was finally connected to the power source and firmly mounted to its support. I flipped the 'On' switch and watched as the blades happily twirled on the base. An added bonus was that the lights that no longer flickered with every gyration of the whirligig. But the best part was the sound of silence. Instead of a rickety racket rotation, the only feedback was a serene hum. As I stood there admiring our handiwork, my mind searched for the last time I tuned in to the sound of silence. In this technical age we are surrounded by modern noise. Sirens and signals scream at us. Traffic jams in our head. Cell phones call us to attention. Larger than life flat screens blare across the room and music blooms from tiny buds in our ears. The sound of silence is deafened by noise. In addition to this daily commotion we will also soon suffer from what I call holiday tinnitus â&#x2C6;&#x2019; the ringing of the busiest season of the year. Holiday tinnitus causes silence to compete on two levels. Not only with our media mania, but also with the very season that is meant to bring quiet moments of reflection, thanksgiving, and peace. With the added cacophony of gobbling turkeys, Black Friday, and silver bells, we chance becoming dull to the din around us. We drown out the silence of a leaf dropped from the hands of a maple and become numb to the pure quiet of wax running down the side of a candle. How do we arrange a silent bouquet in the midst of such a clatter? Try snipping off those distractions that deafen the sound of silence; for example, the television, computer, and iPod. Disconnect from your routine. Step over to the other side of prayer and just listen. Grab a notebook and write what you hear. You might be surprised to find that in the absence of noise there is serene feedback. When we consciously snip back the thorny distractions of our lives and step out of the clamor into the quiet presence of God, He is there waiting for us. When we stop long enough to experience the sound of silence He will speak. The voice we hear in the absence of noise will encourage, inspire, and heal us. We will find our self connected to the power source that will support us even in the rickety racket rotation of life and the ringing of holiday tinnitus. 19

Gardening with Ruby for Women This Monthâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s Garden Section is sponsored by:

Thomas B. Clarke - Author of the book entitled A Garden of Love An endearing gift book for the Christian woman who enjoys flowers

Click on the links below to learn more about this and Tomâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s other publications

www.bible-discernments.com or www.prayergardeners.blogspot.com

Thank you Thomas B. Clarke for your generous sponsorship! 20

Love from the Prayer Garden Gentleness by Thomas B. Clarke The lamb’s ear is soft as a satin blouse, the skin of a newborn baby, a cotton ball, a child’s stuffed bunny rabbit, a velvet jacket, or a peach-skin dress – such is the gentleness of the lamb’s ear. Our Christ has that same gentleness and even more – Scriptures call us to demonstrate our love and gentleness in the same way. The ambiance of a garden is not dependent on just one lovely flower, flowing conifer, or curvaceous walkway, but rather on the total effect that the collection suggests. The delphinium can add its elegant stateliness; the Siberian iris its soft grace; the columbine its friendly kindness; and the rose its peaceful splendor. The textures of each soothing, simple, polite, joyous, or gregarious variety help develop the overall aura as do the changing color themes be they bright yellows, deep purples, hot pinks, intense reds, gentle whites, or soft blues. The whole is far greater than the individual parts. The lamb’s ear has exceptionally soft leaves, silvery-gray patches of thick velvet that cover one another with a soothing and restful effect. In the late spring, flower stalks with pink subtle buds reach above the leaves in a simplistic form. The plants are surprisingly aggressive as they take up more territory, which may seem inconsistent when compared to their otherwise gentle character. Or is it that they are attempting to spread their gentleness? Just as the astilbe suggests the humility and gentleness of Christ, so the lamb’s ear can suggest the same should be true for us. Paul wrote to the Ephesians: Always be humble and gentle. Be patient with each other, making allowance for each other’s faults because of your love. Make every effort to keep yourselves united in the Spirit, binding yourselves together with peace (Ephesians 4:2,3). Gentleness, when combined with other attributes such as patience, kindness, goodness, faithfulness, self-control, tenderness, and compassion, helps build the ambiance of love.

Elsie knew that her time on earth was near an end – she had congestive heart failure and her kidneys were shutting down as she lay in her hospital bed with her husband George at her side. At 92 years old, she still had the same sweetness that George remembered when they were first married seventy-one years earlier. Elsie began the conversation, “George, do you remember all those adorable stuffed lambs that I sewed and then gave to the orphanages?” Of course George remembered – how could he forget? Elsie frequently went to an upstairs bedroom that was converted to a sewing room, bringing out the white lambskin-looking plush fabric along with black plush for the nose, ears, and eyes. She first started using cotton balls for the stuffing, but in later years she switched to polyfil because it was nearly as soft and was non-allergenic. The lambs were so huggable, so cuddly, so lovable. Elsie continued, “George, years ago I made a special one for you, bigger than all the others, and I have saved it so I could give it to you now.” He wondered what this was all about but did not say a word because he had mellowed significantly. Her weak voice strained, “Did you ever wonder why I sewed so many lambs?” He nodded; she handed him a large plastic bag. “Just after we were married, my grandmother told me the secret of a happy marriage was to never argue. She taught me to keep quiet in my anger, and to make those adorable little lambs instead. One particular day was very difficult for me, so I prayed to God that he would make you into that soft lamb. Today, George, I can see that you have become what I prayed for. Please accept this gift of my love for you.” Pursue righteousness and a godly life, along with faith, love, perseverance, and gentleness (1 Timothy 6:11). Copyright © 2009 Bible Discernments. Excerpt from A Garden of Love by Thomas B. Clarke, a gift book about love for anyone that enjoys flowers. Tom is also the caretaker of the Gethsemane Prayer Garden in Syracuse, NY – open to the public. A Garden of Love is available on Amazon as well 21 as at www.agardenoflove.com .

Gardening with Aunt Dots November Hurry by Dorothy Kurchak Homer November, it’s either the end of summer gardening hurry or the beginning of holiday celebration hurry. Either way it seems there is always something that needs to be done. I was glad to get out of the garden as my back told me I was overdoing it, but with the advent of Indian summer the lure of being outdoors was irresistible. I’ve noticed the sunsets this fall. I’ve taken a few photos of sunsets and I had to share this one with you. When I see something this beautiful it makes me cry because I’m so thankful for the One who made it. If the frost hasn’t been too severe you’ll be able to make some table arrangements for Thanksgiving or just for your own pleasure. This arrangement was made in an acorn squash. I cut off the top 1/3 and hollowed it out. It’s made with peony leaves, mums and some blackberry lily seeds. Many leaves of plants, other than trees, turn beautiful colors in the fall. Keep an eye out for them and either use in an arrangement or press them for future use, like a picture or on a greeting card. I enjoy making greeting cards with pressed flowers. The office stores make it easy by having pre-folded cards with envelopes. Just glue your flowers or leaves on the front and cover with clear contact paper and write a greeting inside. Your friends will think you’re an artist! My friends sent me this photo of a turkey who wandered into their yard. The turkeys come into their yard to eat the bird seed under the feeder. A mother with several chicks also set up housekeeping under some shrubs in the backyard. They stayed for several days. My friends’ house is surrounded by fields and there is a wooded area nearby. They don’t have a cat or dog so they get more visitors than I. My two cats are good hunters and chase anything that moves. When I was visiting with my friends the other day they gave me an acorn squash. So, I’m giving you a different kind of recipe for squash with apples. With Thanksgiving coming, you’ll have to take something to the family dinner or church supper, so give this one a try. 22

SQUASH AND APPLE BAKE from the kitchen of Aunt Dots 2 pounds butternut or buttercup squash, pared, cut in half with seeds and fiber removed and cut in ½ inch slices ½ cut brown sugar packed ¼ cup melted butter or margarine 1 tablespoon flour 1 teaspoon salt 2 baking apples, cored and cut into ½ inch slices Heat oven to 350. Stir together other ingredients except apples. Arrange squash in ungreased baking dish about 11x7. Top with apples. Sprinkle sugar mixture over top and cover with foil. Bake 50-60 minutes or until squash is tender. This is good as a substitute for sweet potatoes. I keep my seed catalogs from the spring and fall and use my free time in the winter to get to know some new plants. Since I’ll be spending my winters in Florida, I have to get familiar with plants in zone 9, which are totally unfamiliar to me. I do have a mother-in-laws tongue or snake plant which is almost five feet tall and 12 inches wide. This plant grows wild in the South. I would like to take it to Florida, but I’m sure my husband won’t agree to that. I’m hoping to get someone here at home to take care of that plant and a couple others. My son, Chuck, took care of them last winter but he’s in heaven now and unable to help me. I hope to find some plants to place around our new place that will survive the summer there. May you all have a pleasant Thanksgiving with your friends and family. And remember to be thankful to the Lord and grow in your knowledge of Him.

Aunt Dots

Hot Spiced Apple Cider from the kitchen of Maxine Young A classic fall drink that warms through and through! Ingredients

Directions

1/3 cup packed brown sugar 1 teaspoon whole allspice 1 teaspoon whole cloves 2 cinnamon sticks 1/4 teaspoon salt 1 pinch ground nutmeg 8 cups apple cider

Thanksgiving Food Word Search Puzzle by Beth Brubaker Find the hidden words within the grid of letters

Answer Key on page 67

Hot Spiced Cranberry Cider from the kitchen of Maxine Young A slightly tart version of its apple cousin, a nice intro to Thanksgiving

Ingredients 8 cups apple cider 6 cups cranberry juice 1/2 cup packed brown sugar 3 cinnamon sticks 1 teaspoon whole cloves 1 sliced lemon

Directions 1. Bring all ingredients to a boil in a large pot. 2. Reduce heat and simmer for 20 - 30 minutes. 3. Remove spices. 4. Serve hot. ÂŠ 2011 Maxine Young 24

Christmas Monkey Pie by Elizabeth Baker “His name is Ye” Chelsea spoke thoughtfully and tapped her chin as though still processing the strange conversation. “What did you say?” Curtis looked up from his chemistry textbook with weary eyes and for the first time wondered if carrying a full academic load, managing a fast food restaurant, adjusting to a new wife and becoming a Youth Director for Bent Tree Church all within six months might have been a little too much. “You know, like in the Bible. Ye.” “As in, ‘Go ye into all the world?” “Yeah. Like that. Ye.” “Well, I guess in China that’s a perfectly good name for a boy.” “Taiwan,” said his bride. “Taipei, Taiwan to be exact. I looked it up.” As soon as the words were out of Chelsea’s mouth, she wanted to pull them back. She had corrected her husband. Again. During premarital counseling this bad habit had been thoroughly discussed and duly condemned. Now, they were six months past the wedding and she still did it before she thought. She put a finger in her mouth and began to bite the nail, then caught herself and jerked it free. Strange. She never used to bite her nails. Knowing the conversation wasn’t finished, she drew in a breath and summoned another cup of courage from her dwindling supply. “I think we may have another problem.” she said with slow deliberation. Curtis put down his book. Another problem? Great. How could he possibly handle another problem? His life was stretched so thin all he really wanted to do was to run away alone somewhere and sleep for a week.

No, no, that was not quite right. If he ran he would need to take Chelsea. Life without her was unthinkable. He stopped tapping his pencil and looked up ready to listen. “Problem?” “I think so,” she swallowed hard then continued. “Stephanie said that Ye wanted to bring something to the Christmas social.” Curtis continued to look straight at her and finally shrugged encouraging her to continue. “He’ll be bringing a monkey baked in a pie.” “You’re kidding.” The serious expression in her grey/blue eyes was answer enough. Last week, when Stephanie mentioned that an exchange student was sitting next to her in Biology class, he thought it was an excellent opportunity for evangelism and suggested she invite him to the social planned for the weekend before Christmas. That would be a perfect time to introduce a foreigner to Christian customs. The event would be casual, fun and held at the house he and Chelsea recently rented rather than the church. At least, it had seemed like a perfect idea at the time. “How is he going to find a monkey in Florida?” he asked incredulously. “How should I know?” Chelsea could feel the tension rising. “There are all kinds of specialty food stores around. That new Deli by the gas station on Main specializes in food from India. Maybe somebody, somewhere stocks canned monkey.” “Yuck! That’s gross!” Curtis closed his chemistry text and began chewing on the pencil. Stephanie was new to the youth group. She had a blue streak down one side of her hair and five earring holes in one ear with none in the other. The idea of her being friends with an exchange student who enjoyed pies with monkeys baked inside was a distinct possibility. They were both silent a moment. 25

“Do you think we will have to eat any of it?” he ventured. “I don’t know if I can!” his bride responded and shook her head. “I never thought being a youth pastor’s wife would require things like this!” “Maybe you misunderstood,” he suggested hopefully. “Exactly what did Stephanie say?” Chelsea stiffened. She might have a bad habit of correcting him, but he had a way of putting her down without even realizing it. Did he think she was too dumb to hear? “Her exact words were, ‘Ye wants to bring monkey pie.’ She even asked twice if I was sure it would be okay.” “And, you said, ‘yes’?” “What was I supposed to say? Ye helped his uncle cook in a small store in Taipei that stayed open all night and served customers on the street. Stephanie obviously wants to share the dish with the whole youth group and said it would be ‘fun’ to try something new!” “Don’t worry,” Curtis consoled. “If someone needs to eat monkey, it should be me. After all, I am the Youth Pastor, not you.” He sighed. Being a husband certainly involved responsibilities they never told you about in seminary. The last thing Chelsea wanted was a mouth full of monkey pie, but being clearly told that she was second class when it came to ministry was even worse. Curtis watched as a cloud passed over her face and she turned away from him resuming the chore that Stephanie’s call had interrupted. As the vacuum roared its way to life, his wife attacked the floor with a vengeance. What was wrong? She ought to be glad he offered to eat the monkey! Was he not helping enough with household duties? They both carried full loads at college and both had jobs, so he tried to split the chores evenly. Had he missed something? Women were so hard to understand.

The afternoon wore on and each partner in the new marriage drifted toward their own thoughts and personal work. Each nursed wounds given by the other and each prayed. Also, each considered telling the other about the problem. The premarital counselor said it was the thing to do and they did want to do things right. But, before they could make a decision about sharing, the afternoon turned to evening and slowly a different emotion filled up the space between them. It was a quiet but undeniable thing and it washed in like a tide slowly filling up an abandoned cove. The hurts, failures and misunderstandings didn’t melt away. They just didn’t matter so much when the new thing was present. They lay in each other’s arms that night, sleepy and weary from a day with too much work and too little time. “I love you,” he yawned. “I love you back,” she whispered through a sleepy haze. Then, just as the dark edges of sleep rolled over them, Curtis mumbled, “We can figure out about the monkey on Friday.” “Hum-hum,” was her only reply. They had still not decided how to handle the situation when suddenly Friday came on them without warning. Racing home from classes they grabbed the folded clothes from the living room sofa and barely had time to get paper plates and other party supplies on the table before the door bell rang. Soon fifteen teens were filling the house with energy, exaggerated language and hormones. Stephanie and Ye arrived last and were the only ones carrying a dish. “Hey everyone! This is Ye.” Stephanie stuck out her thumb and pointed to the tall, oriental looking boy behind her. “Good evening,” Ye smiled speaking English with a vague mix of British style and hints of oriental tang. When he shook Chelsea’s hand she half expected him to bow.

“Stephanie said it was approved that I should offer this to the hostess.” He held out a round Tupperware carrier with a red handle. “My American host family helped in preparation, but the recipe is one I have made many times with my uncle in Taiwan.”

Monkey Pie from the kitchen of Elizabeth Baker

With reluctant hands Chelsea took the red handle and carefully placed the container between the plastic bottles of soft drinks and the sandwiches she had prepared. She was wondering whether monkey would taste better with tuna or pimento cheese when Ye appeared at her side. “May I help?” he offered. Slipping off the cover he pulled out a plate brimming with what looked like whipped cream. “Monkey Pie,” he explained. “In my uncle’s shop we have sold it for many years. Best combination of bananas, chocolate and peanut butter ever to be eaten by humans.” “Thank you, Ye.” Cutis said slipping his arm around Chelsea’s waist. “It’s always fun to try something new.” She glanced up and opened her mouth with a correction on her tongue, but swallowed it back down. After all, it was Christmas. Sometimes the best gift was when you were wise enough not to say anything at all. Check more short stories and other FREE STUFF on Elizabeth's website, www.ElizabethBakerBooks.com . And, don't miss the bargain package of ten gift booklets with envelopes for $20. They make great gifts for teachers and groups! Elizabeth is an author and retired counselor drawing on thirty-five years of experience helping individuals apply biblical principles to real-life situations. She currently lives in Pittsburg, Texas where she concentrates on her writing. A widow since her mid 30's, Elizabeth has four grown children, fifteen grandchildren, and six great-grands.

Ingredients: 1 box vanilla wafers ¾ cup butter, melted 4 squares baking chocolate 1 cup crunchy peanut butter 4 bananas 2 cups milk 2 (4 oz) packages instant vanilla pudding 2 cups whipped topping ½ cup peanuts, chopped

Let’s make it! Crush vanilla wafers. Add melted butter and mix thoroughly. Press into bottom and sides of pie plate. Bake crust at 350 degrees until golden brown. Cool. Cut bananas in half lengthwise then lengthwise again (quartering) and place in cooled crust. Combine about ¾ of the chocolate chips and peanut butter. Microwave until melted then quickly pour over bananas in pie crust. Pour milk in a bowl, add vanilla pudding and mix well. When thickened, add 1 cup of whipped topping and blend. Pour over chocolate/banana mixture in pie plate. Top with remaining whipped topping and garnish with chopped peanuts and reserved chocolate chips. Chill for at least 3 hours before serving. 27

Mission Possible by Deborah McCarragher Deborah began her journey of creative writing soon after coming to know Jesus Christ as her personal Savior in 1989. She uses her spiritual gifts of encouragement and teaching in her home church. She is also a small business owner of over twenty years. Her primary goal is to share her personal testimony with others while bringing hope and practical help through her book. She and her husband have one married son serving in the US Military. They reside in north Florida. Mission Possible is a unique book in the Christian marketplace. It addresses a subject that is often overlooked and misunderstood. It is a candid look at my struggles and quest to reach my husband for Christ. It applies Scripture and biblical principles to everyday struggles encountered within a spiritually mismatched marriage. Mission Possible won the 2010 Readers Favorite Gold Seal Award for best Christian Non-Fiction book, and was nominated for the Christian Small Publisher’s Assoc. Book of the Year Award in 2009 http://www.Twitter.com/debitsdeb http://www.Facebook.com/Godmissionpossible http://www.Godmissionpossible.blogspot.com

Wassail Punch (non-alcoholic) from the kitchen of Maxine Young Autumn is my very favorite time of year, the colors, the crispness of cool air and the excuse to have a nice warm drink every day! Here is another one of my fall favorites! A traditional spicy, tangy apple cider served at holiday parties – the original includes eggs!

Ingredients 6 cups apple cider 2 cups orange juice Juice of one lemon 6 whole cloves 4 cinnamon sticks 3 star anise 1 tablespoon sugar (or more to your taste) 1/4 tsp ground ginger 1/4 tsp ground nutmeg

Directions In a large pot over low heat (or slow cooker on low heat), combine all ingredients and simmer for 4 - 6 hours or all day. Serve warm.

A Carpet for the King by Keith Wallis Advent announced the carpet is laid; a million gold-brown joys smother colding grasses. Winter hides around the turn of days, its cold beckoning an ambush for fading light. Winds trumpet changes scolding tarrying clouds and spreading the royal mat to forgotten corners. These are not palm leaf welcome hiding bitterness in their greeting. These are bitter days heralding the warmth of Christmas love.

Can You Be Thankful for Fleas? by Lynn Mosher The economy. Foreclosures. Job loss. High prices. Financial turmoil. All these lay heavy on the minds of many right now. So many negative situations come our way. Is it possible to be thankful for those thorns in our sides, those things that interrupt our peaceful living, those things that stab us in the heart, those things that bring us to tears? I know, I know. I can hear you now. “Why in the world should I be thankful for the negative things in my life?” Well, let’s see. If our lives are in God’s hands, then all that comes to us is filtered through His loving fingers and still in His care. So, are we thankful for whatever may come our way? Scripture says… * “No matter what happens, always be thankful, for this is God’s will for you who belong to Christ Jesus.” (1 Thess. 5:18 TLB) * “Let the peace of heart that comes from Christ be always present in your hearts and lives, for this is your responsibility and privilege as members of his body. And always be thankful.” (Col. 3:15 TLB) * “And whatever you do or say, let it be as a representative of the Lord Jesus, and come with Him into the presence of God the Father to give Him your thanks.” (Col. 3:17 TLB) Today, I was reminded of a story in the life of Corrie ten Boom. If you’ve never heard of Corrie, when she was a young, Dutch Christian girl living in Holland, she and her family helped the Jews to escape the Nazis in World War II. Hence, the title of one of her books, The Hiding Place. After being betrayed, the family was imprisoned in two places, one where the father died, which was before Corrie and her sister Betsie were sent to the second place, the notorious concentration camp Ravensbruck near Berlin. Life in this camp was intolerable. For one thing, their cabin was infested was fleas, which fed on the prisoners by biting them constantly. However, Corrie and Betsie managed to have a daily Bible study with the other women, many of whom came to the Lord. At first, they were afraid to conduct these meetings, but, each night, they became bolder, as no guard ever entered their cabin, which baffled them. One night, as they read scripture about praising God for all things, Betsie turned to Corrie and said they were going to praise God for the fleas. Corrie absolutely refused. Betsie insisted and Corrie finally gave in. They all got down on their knees and thanked God for the fleas.

Years later, Corrie found a journal of one of the guards that had stood outside their door. He wrote that he never set foot inside their cabin because it was so infested with fleas. Betsie died while imprisoned. However, when Corrie was eventually released, she found out it had been “a clerical error,” as all the other women her age were killed a week later. Written to the Ephesians by Paul while he was imprisoned, he told them, “…making melody with all your heart to the Lord, at all times and for everything giving thanks in the name of our Lord Jesus Christ to God the Father.” (Eph. 5:19b-20 AMP) Just some thoughts to ponder at this time of year… * For what will I give thanks this year? * Will I be thankful for the “fleas” in my life? * Will I thank God just for things, things that can disappear in the blink of an eye? My job, my house, my family, my friends, my possessions? * Or will I be thankful for all God does in my life, for all the little everyday things as well as the big things? * Will I also be thankful for those things He keeps from entering my life? * Will I be thankful that He is Who He says He is? * Will I be thankful for His grace and mercy, His righteousness and justice, His comfort and peace, His supply and protection, His Word, and His promises, His discipline and justice? With all my heart, I pray for each of you that you will be thankful for the “fleas” in your life and that you have a very blessed Thanksgiving.

Thanksgiving blessings, Lynn Send Out Cards with Danie Bell This holiday season, visit Danie Bell at

Send Out Cards and let her show you how you can send out holiday greetings that are personalized, quick, and easy! https://www.sendoutcards.com/28116/ 31

Walls of Jericho Block #2 for the Bible Block Sampler Sew-Along by Laura Brandt Heb. 11:30 By faith the walls of Jericho fell down, after they were compassed about seven days. For the rest of the story, see Joshua 6! The Walls of Jericho block is #1853 in Barbara Brackman’s Encyclopedia of Pieced Quilt Patterns and #227-3 in Jinny Beyer’s Quilter’s Album of Patchwork Patterns. The block pattern was published by Nancy Cabot in the October 28, 1935 edition of the Chicago Tribune. Please note: all seams are ¼”; final block is 12.5” unfinished Step 1 – Cut your fabric. I’ve used five different fabrics and the templates rather than the rotary cutting instructions. The templates can be found at www.wentworthcountyquiltworks.com as well as at the end of this article.

Step 2 – With the right sides together, place the long edge of a Template D triangle along the corresponding edge of a Template C trapezoid, as shown: Sew along the top edge, using ¼” seam allowance. Press seam. You should now have a two-tone right-angle triangle that corresponds to Template A.

Repeat for the remaining three sets of Template C trapezoids and Template D triangles. You should now have four two-tone Template A-sized triangles.

Step 3 – With right sides together, sew long edge of one new two-tone triangle to long edge of one of the Template A triangles that you cut in Step 1. Press seam. Sew remaining three sets in the same way.

You should now have four 5 ½” squares.

Step 4 – With right sides together, sew a 5 ½ length of Template B sashing to each side of the Template E centre square. Press seams. You should now have a 12.5” sashing strip. Step 5 – With right sides together, sew one of the two remaining 5 ½ “ lengths of sashing to one of the 5 ½ “ squares. Make sure you follow the diagram. Press seams.

Sashing right side together on top of square Sashing sewn to square and seam pressed Step 6 – With right sides together, sew another 5 ½” square to the other side of the sashing strip.

Press seams. You have now completed half of the block.

Step 7 – Repeat steps 5 and 6 to sew the remaining 5 ½” sashing strip to the remaining 5 ½” squares.

Step 8 – Sew the 12 ½” sashing strip to the bottom section. Be sure to align your seams with the centre square.

Step 9 – Sew the top section to the 12 ½” sashing strip, also being careful to align seams. Press block. You are done!

Wentworth County Quiltworks Bible quilt updates and a growing Bible Block-of-the-Month collection Visit Laura and follow along as she creates her Bible Block-of-the-Month Collection! www.wentworthcountyquiltworks.com

Walls of Jericho Block #2 for the Bible Block Sampler Sew-Along by Laura Brandt

Walls of Jericho DIAGRAM #1

Block #2 for the Bible Block Sampler Sew-Along by Laura Brandt DIAGRAM #1 35

Walls of Jericho Block #2 for the Bible Block Sampler Sew-Along by Laura Brandt DIAGRAM #2

Thank you to Laura Brandt of Wentworth County Quiltworks for sharing her Bible Block Sampler with the Ruby for Women community! www.wentworthcountyquiltworks.com 36

Getting a Fresh Thanksgiving Turkey by Sheila Watson Kraklow The menu is set, the grand day of American celebrations is quickly approaching…and it’s your turn to cook the Thanksgiving turkey! Do not fear! Using these tips and suggestions, your turkey will be the best dressed bird ever! The bird: The best choice for any meat is fresh; the fresher the better. Turkey is no exception and even more important today when poultry quality is questionable due to the salmonella dilemma. Go fresh young cook, go fresh! Where do you get a truly fresh turkey, you ask? Go directly to a farm offering live turkeys, pick one out and have them butcher it for you. This sounds strange to you now, but if you will take the time to do this, you will be praised for years to come for the turkey you prepared on that day, I promise! These farmers can be found in the classified ads of most newspapers, on your local Craig’s List or on bulletin boards in your local farmers markets. Make sure you contact them at least 2 weeks in advance to make an appointment. When you go to your meat producer/farm and pick out the bird, chances are that after you pick the bird they will slaughter it then. It’s really quite interesting. You go to the big turkey yard with the farmer’s wife (probably his kids and the dog, too) and you see at least 100 turkeys all happy and healthy and full of good nutritious free range food. You spy one lurking by the water fountain and tell the good woman you’d like that one. She then quickly gallops over to the bird and grabs it by one leg, brings it back to you and says, “Yep, this is a good one, I’d say ‘bout a 15 pounder.” She hands the flopping bird over to the teenager at her side and he saunters off, your bird in tow! Now you are invited into the farmhouse for a cup of coffee while junior takes care of the bird. The kitchen is big and warm and smells like lunch. The coffee is perking and the energetic lady sets coffee mugs, spoons, cream pitcher and the sugar bowl in front of you. She then goes to her pantry and brings forth the most wonderful cinnamon rolls you have ever seen. She places several on a plate and, grinning, she sets them down in front of you. “Have one” she says as she pours you a big mug of real coffee (not drip) and ladles a big thick dollop of cream into your steaming mug! Now, you never drink cream in your coffee, and you never eat cinnamon rolls and you never…oh what the heck, you dig in. The two of you chat for a bit and then your attention is drawn to the door and the young man standing there, with your turkey! 37

“Here's yer bird." He says. And so it is! Your wonderful Thanksgiving turkey, all plucked and cleaned. It’s beautiful! They wrap the turkey in white butcher paper and tie it with string. You pay them and are on your way home. The best scenario would be to cook the turkey the next day, but it will keep nicely in your refrigerator for a couple of days and still be “fresh”. To roast this fine bird: Take the turkey out of the refrigerator and straight to the sink. Open up the cavities and run cold water through it, run cold water over the entire outside of the turkey too. Have a big kitchen towel ready to receive the bird, wrap the towel around the bird and let it sit there a couple of minutes to drain and dry from its bath. The best way to roast any meat is called a “Dry Roast”. This means you add no liquids to the roasting pan. The meat then roasts in its own juices; this produces a wonderfully moist meat and great results. Turn your oven on and set it at 350 degrees F. Take the bird and examine it carefully, pulling any feathers that were left behind, pulling any pinfeathers which may be lodged under the skin. You are looking for anything that you don’t want your guests to be surprised by on their plates. Pull it off, scrape it out and then spank that bird! Seasoning your bird: Salt and pepper and softened real butter are all you need at this point. Use a good quality salt, sea salt or kosher salts are best. Freshly ground pepper too, you weren’t thinking of using the canned stuff, were you? Take a handful of salt and stick your whole hand into the cavity of the bird, sling that salt around in there, same with the pepper. Take the bird now and set it into your roaster pan. Fold back the wing tips and tuck them under the bird, they will form a triangle if you do it right. You might want to truss the bird. Using string you wrap the bird in a length of string and then take it around the wings and around to the ankles doing a double wrap there to secure the legs together, continue back to the wings and after looping it there, cut the string. Tie the ends together in a knot or bow. Lay the turkey into the bottom of the roaster. Take 1/4 cup or so of your softened butter and gently pull up the skin around the body/breast cavity. Put a dollop or two of the butter under that skin there which is the breast. Place the skin down on top of the butter and press it down. Take 1/4 cup more butter and using both hands give your fresh wonderful turkey the rub down it so deserves. Rub the butter over that handsome breast, up over the legs and thighs and then down to the neck area, making sure to butter every inch.

Your turkey is now ready to roast. Place the lid on your roaster and after offering thanks to the One Who made this all possible. Place the whole thing into your preheated oven. Now go watch a movie! Roasting guide: In this article we are referring to an un-stuffed turkey, in a covered roaster. 4-8 lbs: 1 1/2 to 2 hours 8-12 lbs: 2 3/4 to 3 hours 12-14lbs: 3 to 3 3/4 hours 14-18 lbs: 3 3/4 to 4 1/4 hours 18-24 lbs: 4 1/2 to 5 hours. Remove the lid of the roaster for the last 15-20 minutes of roasting to let the skin get crispy and brown. Your turkey is done when the legs feel loose when you wiggle them, and the meat thermometer has reached an internal temperature of at least 150 degrees F. The poultry guides all say to stop roasting at 160 degrees F, but if you take your turkey out of the oven at 160 degrees F it will be over cooked and dry. Take the pan out of the oven at 150 degrees F. Meats continue to cook for a while after they are removed from the heat. Let it sit for 10 minutes and then test for the desired temperature. It will come up after removing from heat. Present your turkey on a platter, surrounded by colorful veggies or fruits. This procedure, no matter how you procure your fresh turkey will work for you. You will win accolades with your wonderfully roasted, moist-meated, and crisp-skinned triumph! I promise!

http://www.etsy.com/shop/keepsakesbykatherine

Footprints in the Mud Leftover Day by Beth Brubaker Thanksgiving is a time where most people make meals big enough to feed a city, much less their own families! Leftovers are usually things to be enjoyed, but after the first day (or twelve) of having the same dishes over and over, there's an understanding as to why turkey is made by most only once a year. The internet has a plethora of recipes for all those 'holiday leftovers'. Turkey salad, turkey soup, turkey sandwiches . . . and it wouldn't surprise me to find turkey pudding or turkey meatloaf online. There are just so many things you can do to remake the feast that is Thanksgiving before you and the family get tired of tasting turkey and mashed potatoes in every meal. After one such feed fest, I sat there contemplating my overstuffed self and wondered where I was going to store all this leftover stuff. The freezer was full, and the refrigerator was about to be filled with all the food we couldn't finish. Even some of the desserts needed to be chilled, if they weren't going to be a flavorful puddle in the middle of the table! Something had to be done. Then God gave me this fantastic idea! I was talking to my neighbors and friends, and they all had different things at their tables during Thanksgiving. The side dishes varied the most, and some had ham instead of turkey. But they all lamented the same

One, they really didn't want to eat the same things over and over. Two, they wished they could invite friends over for what is usually labeled a 'family only' meal. Even if invited, friends couldn't come because of their own family Thanksgiving obligations. My idea would solve both those problems. First, we would set up tables in our dining space to accommodate everyone the day after Thanksgiving. Then have our friends heat up their dishes at home (since most were close by), and bring all of their leftovers, including desserts. We would then sit down to a feast, trying everyone else's food! The day after Thanksgiving was now dubbed by me as Leftover Day. Everyone enjoyed each other's company, and after the meal was over, we donated the rest of the food to the local shelter. And believe me, there was still enough left to feed a lot of people! No more leftovers, no overstuffed fridge, and no messes to clean up afterwards, because everyone ate off of paper plates! The plan went off so well, that when we told our pastor about it, he wanted to do that in the church this year! Who knows? This just might be the beginning of a great new tradition!

things. 40

As If by Keith Wallis As if the rose itself were not beauteous enough; as if its colours did not draw the eye or its scented magnetism entice the nose. As if each crinoline contour were not lure to imagination, the tearful evening sky spends its heart upon this flower. The elixir of life drizzles to the ground; sustaining, feeding. Diamante stipple-rain, pointillistic embellishment, glitters the petal garment. Extravagant God adds another layer to the splendour at no extra cost. 41

Lesson from a Spider’s Web by Pauline Creeden During my morning walk, I felt a prompting in my heart to go stand on this small piece of concrete slab sitting under a tree and to pray for the people that I’d seen during the stroll. As I headed in a straight line to the slab, I ran directly into an unseen spider web. You have to understand that all along this walk I had seen at least ten different spider webs. Orb weavers have this talent for setting up their delicate netting in obtrusive places literally overnight. All along the way, they’d been perfectly visible and easily avoided. Then when I set out to go to a specific spot that I felt a prompting to go to, I ran right into a giant invisible web. Of course, being a female, I freaked out a little bit. Ran my hands through my hair and got the stringy, sticky goop out. I thanked God that the spider was still scurrying around the unbroken portion of the web on the tree branch, likely lamenting its breakage. But even more, I felt my heart sink. I felt like it was a small failure on my part. That maybe the prompting didn’t come from God, since the path wasn’t perfectly cleared of all obstacles. Because narrow is the gate and difficult is the way which leads to life, and there are few who find it. Matthew 7:14 NKJV Immediately, my thoughts received correction. Jesus warned us that the way is difficult. When has anything great come easy? If Christians go about feeling like every problem in the path signifies a bad direction, we’d stay in bed under the covers! So I shrugged off my initial shudder and obediently stood on the concrete block to pray. But it got me thinking, how can we know what is a prompting from God and not a desire of our own making? 1. What would I gain by doing what my heart prompted? If the answer is nothing, than you can be more certain that it’s not a selfish one. 2. Does the prompting align with what I know about God? If the prompting asks you to do something you know God would never ask, then you can be sure it’s not from Him. 3. Will others gain from my obedience? If the answer is yes, it is much more likely that He ordained it. 4. Would Satan have a motive to stop me from being obedient in this? For my prompting in this venture, I had nothing to gain. God would want me to pray, and others would gain from my intercession for them. And yes, Satan has a motive to stop me. So in this particular instance I was right in continuing to be obedient even though an obstacle blocked my way. We all wish God would remove every obstacle from our path, but sometimes the obstacles are there to help us to grow stronger. I pray that I will be obedient when a bigger obstacle arrives. 42

Autumn Confetti Salad from the kitchen of Vintage Mama This is a pretty, colorful salad that is perfect in the autumn and winter months. Using canned fruits, pineapple, mandarin oranges, and Maraschino cherries, it is quick and easy, and really yummy! We have made this salad for many years in our family, so I thought I would share it with you. It makes a beautiful accompaniment to your Thanksgiving table, but it is so simple that you can make it for everyday meals, as well.

Ingredients:

Let’s make it!

1 jar Maraschino cherries 1 can pineapple chunks 1 can Mandarin oranges 10 oz. bag of mini marshmallows 6 – 7 oz. sour cream 1 Tbsp brown sugar ½ c. chopped walnuts

Drain all fruits thoroughly and mix together in a large bowl. Stir in marshmallows. Mix together sour cream, brown sugar, and walnuts. Gently mix the fruit with the sour cream mixture. Serve chilled.

Hot Chai Latte from the kitchen of Maxine Young A tea lover’s dream: spicy, faintly fruity, and comforting

Ingredients (makes 2 cups)

Let’s make it!

1 cup milk 1 cup water 1 large strip of orange peel 1 cardamom pod (or 1/8 tsp ground cardamom) 3 whole cloves 1 (3 inch) cinnamon stick 3 whole black peppercorns 1 pinch ground nutmeg 1 pinch of ground ginger 4 teaspoons white or brown sugar 2 teaspoons black tea leaves

Combine the milk and water in a saucepan over medium-high heat. Warm through. Add all remaining ingredients and bring to a boil Simmer until the tea darkens to your desired shade. Remove spices Serve hot with snacks! 43

Make this Thanksgiving Quilt decoration and give your guests a warm welcome on Thanksgiving Day! from Vintage Image Craft Do you admire quilts - but shiver at the thought of sewing one? Our faux Thanksgiving Quilt has all the plush charm of a primitive quilt, and none of the sewing. The Styrofoam™ company has long promoted this craft technique of tucking fabric into slits in a foam form (called the "quick-tuck" method), but we took it a step further. You print the center fabric panel on your home inkjet printer, and cross stitch a Thanksgiving sentiment to surround it. Alright - first we said no sewing, and then said you have to cross stitch on this Thanksgiving quilt. Cross stitch isn't really sewing in our book. It is needlework. Much more leisurely and there's no sewing machine to figure out. Still, if the cross stitch aspect scares you, you can always imitate the cross stitch design with fabric paint. And we found the cutest little Pilgrim, drawn by Ellen H. Clapsaddle around 1909!

Materials for Thanksgiving Quilt Door Decoration • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • •

Vintage images and templates (FREE PDF download or see below). Print the Pilgrim image on an inkjet fabric sheet (see Tips). Styrofoam™ foam board, 12" X 12" X 1" (see Tips). Aida needlework fabric, 18 count/inch, natural or ecru color (See Tips). Fabric: red micro-print cotton. Four 2 1/2" squares (see Tips). Fabric: gold micro-print cotton. Eight 2 1/2" triangles. Fabric: green micro-print cotton. One 16 1/2" square. Cotton batting: One 3 1/2" square. Embroidery floss, brown (see Tips). Embroidery hoop (at least 8"). Embroidery needle. Embroidery transfer pen. Satin ribbon, 5/8" wide, 6' long. Dark green. Pinking shears. Scissors. Craft knife. Butter knife or flatware knife (with a smooth, non-serrated back edge). Fine-tooth saw or sharp bread knife for cutting the foam. Quilting pins (long pins, with round plastic heads). Straight pins. Glue or hot glue (optional). Black marker pen. 44

Instructions 1. Print two copies of the quilt pattern on plain paper, tape the two halves together to form a 10" square pattern, and pin it in the center of the Styrofoamâ&#x201E;˘ square (1" in from all sides). With a craft knife, cut along all solid pattern lines, 1/2" deep into the foam. Save the paper pattern pieces for cutting the fabric. (These instructions are also printed on the template).

2. Retrace the cut lines on the Styrofoamâ&#x201E;˘ with a black marker.

3. Time to cross stitch! See the tips below for some general guidelines. The word patterns we provided will be your models.

4. The first step is to measure and mark on the Aida fabric where you want to cross stitch your words. Use the embroidery transfer pen to mark four (4) rectangular panels, 7.5" X 2.25". Then, to help you center the words, mark the horizontal and vertical center lines on each panel. If the whole idea of cross stitching gives you hives, you can paint the cross stitch design on plain fabric (see Tips).

5. Put the Aida fabric in the embroidery hoop, to show two full panels. Now, read up on cross stitching as we suggest in the tips below - and start.

6. Remember, this is "counted cross stitch," which means you have to count your stitches to match the pattern. Begin from the center of each panel, horizontally and vertically, so your words are centered. Also note: we cross stitched over two threads on the Aida cloth, skipping every other hole.

7. All done? Did you wash and iron your cross stitching? Great! Now it is time to cut your quilt panels.

8. Begin with your finished cross stitch fabric. Pin each of the four (4) C patterns over the exact center of each cross stitched word (the short side of each trapezoid is at the bottom of each word). Trim around each pattern with pinking shears, leaving a 1/8" border on all sides.

9. Pin the four (4) A patterns to the red print cloth. Pin the eight (8) B patterns to the gold print cloth. Trim around each pattern with pinking shears, leaving a 1/8" border on all sides. Cut a 16 1/2" square of green print cloth for the back and frame.

10. Cut a 3 1/2" square of cotton batting and place it on the center (D) square on the foam.

11. Now for the tucking. Center the Pilgrim image panel over the batting on the center (D) square on the foam. Hold the fabric steady, and with the tip of the butter knife, push the edge of the fabric into the slit in the foam on all four sides and the corners.

12. Continue with the Aida cloth panels. These are heavier fabric, and it is important to keep the fabric centered as you tuck around the sides, as it will tend to pull out of the opposite side as you tuck.

13. Position and tuck in the remaining fabric pieces on the pattern.

14. Lay your green print fabric face down and center your foam square on it. Pull the sides of the fabric up and over the edge of the foam, and tuck the edges into the slits in the foam, leaving the corners until the end. Gather the fabric at the corners and neatly pull it to the front (you may have to trim a little so you have about 1/4" past the slit). Tuck the fabric into the corner slits.

15. To hang your Thanksgiving quilt, center the bottom of the foam on the ribbon, and pin (or glue) the ribbon to the bottom and two sides. Tie the two ribbon ends into a bow, and hang it up! Even our mailman stopped to tell us how impressive this Thanksgiving quilt looks on the front door. Tips Styrofoamâ&#x201E;˘ is only one manufacturer of craft foam shapes - but I've never seen any other brand. Their board shapes come in several sizes. The one we used was labeled 15/16" X 11 15/16" X 17 15/16". We cut it to size with a fine-toothed hacksaw, but a sharp bread knife would work as well. We called our final trimmed size 12" X 12" X 1", which is close enough. There are several ways of printing images onto fabric. We chose the easy method: We bought paper-backed fabric sheets designed for inkjet printers. Joann's has a good satin version called Electric Quilt Printables - Inkjet Cotton Satin Fabric Sheets. You can also make your own fabric sheets for your inkjet printer, if you are so inclined!

* Aida is a stiff, open-weave fabric, created just for embroidery. There are distinct holes at the intersections of the warp and weft threads, making it easy to position your needle. The thread count (18 count/inch) specifies the number of holes in an inch, which determines the size of your cross-stitch design. We chose 18-count, because it resembles burlap, and by cross-stitching over two threads of the cloth, our design came out the right size. * For the colored shapes, we used simple cotton fabric with a small print in colors to coordinate with the Pilgrim image. Iron your fabric before you do any cutting, to eliminate the fold lines. * Here's an important tip about embroidery: Don't imagine that we know anything about it. You are seeing the sum total of our experience right here with this simple cross stitch. Still, there is the outside chance that you know less than us, so here is what we learned from the experience: Do some research. We started with our favorite needlework expert, Victorian Embroidery and Crafts, for the basics of cross stitching.

* An embroidery transfer pen has ink that disappears when you wet or wash the fabric. Very mysterious but wonderful. * Measure your Aida panels carefully, because you don't want to cross stitch everything and then find out your panels are 1/4" too small to tuck in to the pattern. Bigger is better. * Mark the horizontal and vertical center lines on each panel. Cross stitch the letters in the center of the word first: The word "GIVE" was stitched in the order of V, E, I, then G. Count the number of vertical stitches in the first letter, and center it vertically with half the stitches above and half below the center line. * An embroidery hoop is a good thing, although using it may make you feel like someone's old, spinster aunt. The hoop should be wider than your design, so ours was 8". To "hoop" your fabric: Lay the inner ring on the table. Lay your fabric over it, positioning your design in the center of the ring. Place the outer ring on the fabric, and press it down over the inner ring until they are flat against the table, then tighten the outer ring. * This cross stitch pattern is simple, block letters, and the technique is called "counted cross stitch." You don't need a fancy pattern on a grid - you just count the number of stitches you make in each direction to reproduce the design. * Standard embroidery floss comes in skeins about nine yards long. One skein is just enough to do this project - but buy two just in case. * A strand of embroidery floss has six loosely-twisted threads. Cut an 18" length of floss; any longer and you'll be battling knots. You'll use only two threads at a time, so separate two threads from the others and pull apart gently. Once you separate about 5", hold the separated ends with one hand, and slowly run your finger down between the threads, letting them untwist slowly. 48

* An embroidery needle has a very large eye, and you'll bless that fact when you try to thread it with two threads. * Never knot embroidery thread: It leaves a lump under the design. Just leave a tail of thread on the back when you start, and make sure you stitch over it once or twice as you cross stitch. 18" of thread is about enough for a single letter in this pattern, but we often found ourselves ending and starting thread in the middle of a letter. No problem. End by running your needle under a few stitches on the back and snipping it off. Start again by running the needle under a few stitches to hold the thread. * You'll make mistakes. You'll miscount the holes in the Aida fabric. You'll start a letter too low. Proudly cut out your mistakes and do it again. With cross stitch, you really can't get away with imprecision. It shows. * Hand wash your finished piece and iron it dry with a medium iron. This will shrink the weave and tighten your stitches. * If the whole idea of needlework and cross stitching makes your eyes cross, you can imitate the cross stitch design with fabric paint. Start with plain, natural white cotton. Mark out the four 7.5" X 2.25" panels. Lay the cross stitch word patterns on a light table (or tape them to a bright window). Center and tape your fabric panels over each word so you can see the pattern clearly through the fabric. Paint over the cross stitch pattern with brown or black fabric paint or a paint pen, imitating the tiny cross designs. It is cheating, but who's to complain?

http://www.vintageimagecraft.com/support-files/thanksgiving-quilt-images.pdf

Discovery House Publishers Feeding the Soul with the Word of God

Visit Discovery House Publishers at www.dhp.org 50

Thanksgiving with the Family Word Scramble Puzzle by Beth Brubaker

Answer Key on page 68

‘Cause Angels Can’t Sing by Elizabeth Baker Check out all the FREE STUFF when you visit her website at www.elizabethbakerbooks.com

Can You Take a Compliment? by Maxine Young For the longest time, I have had a problem accepting compliments. If someone says something flattering to me or about something I have done, I give one of four responses - I ignore it, I graciously say thank you (not because I believe or accept it, but because it’s the polite thing to do), I claim it isn’t truly good enough as yet, or I quickly try to cover the mistake (because it must be a mistake). This is what I somehow learned was "good manners". If someone makes a mistake, do everything you can to ease the pain of the realization of their error. I started to notice that I didn't even put much thought into responding to compliments anymore; it just became automated to answer with one of the four preapproved responses. Somewhere in my growing up I came to believe that not accepting compliments was a normal thing to do if you wanted to be a liked, sweet, good girl. So, while I was off being a sweet, good girl, I would often simply dismiss someone's compliment. It took a long time for me to realize that not only could it be hurtful to the person who paid the compliment, but it was not exactly confidence boosting for myself, and most alarming to me, in a very subtle way I was also dismissing God. One day as I was thinking of the whole situation, a thought I had never considered came to mind; God created us, and anything good we are able to do is only by His grace; how could I dismiss God’s blessing? The thought really surprised me, but the more I thought of it, the more it made sense. If I have asked the Lord for a blessing on whatever it is He has led me to do, and clearly the blessing has manifested, not by my own feeling, but in someone else’s (which is exactly what I have prayed for - to be a blessing to someone else) isn't my instant dismissal grievous to God?

I never before stopped to think how God must feel when I'm being "gracious" while at the same time refuting His blessing as not being good enough; or contesting His blessing as only being a figment of someone’s imagination – a mistake on their part. I have even gone as far as attempting to disprove the blessing by trying to convince myself that if the person really knew me they would never say such a wonderful thing, and of course there were the times I simply ignored them. Imagine; all of this in an attempt to be a gracious good girl! How must it make God feel as we quickly throw cold water on the spark that He has Lord blessed us with? We don’t even notice putting it out. I wonder how many of us were taught similar ideas and were encouraged to boldly dismiss a compliment feeling that it would be the more gracious thing to do. The Lord can help us to overcome our gracious, “good girl” conditioning. We must first ask in faith and believe that He will help us to respond to compliments in a way which would be pleasing to Him. We should probably also take more time to notice the blessings that God has given and praise Him for them. Perhaps if we took more time to praise, we wouldn’t have enough time to dismiss! I want my new response to a compliment to sound something like "Thank you. It is only by the grace of God”; because it is. © 2011 Maxine Young Read more of Maxine’s articles on her blog, Hope and Writing. http://hopeandwriting.blogspot.com http://vegetarianalmost.tumblr.com 52

Vintage Paper Dolls from the collection of Vintage Mama

Traveling Trust by Amanda Johnson Fall is one of my favorite times of the year here in the U.S. For many years I talked about driving up the New England coast to watch the leaves change into their brilliant shades of orange, red, and yellow. Every time October rolled around I planned an adventurous trip north to see the leaves change and enjoy the refreshing fall air. I always planned, but I never went. By the time November pushed through, I was packing away the dreams and hoping that next year I’d have enough courage to go. This went on for years. The desire to go was so strong I could hardly stand to sit at home, but that’s exactly what I did. Last year, a friend of mine asked what was stopping me from going. I told her I was nervous, scared to travel beyond the familiarity of home. She smiled in understanding, but then pointed out that my inability to move was nothing more than a lack of trust in God’s direction and protection. I thought her words over and realized she was right. God gave me the desire to travel. He blessed me with everything I needed to make the trip. I was choosing to be afraid, to allow fear of the unknown rule my mind, and to sit out and miss one of the most beautiful performances of His creation. Isaiah 26:3-4 says “You (Lord) will keep him in perfect peace, whose mind is stayed on you, because he trusts in You. Trust in the Lord forever, for in the Lord Jehovah is everlasting strength…” The words of Isaiah reminded me that only when I surrender in complete trust will I ever find peace. It was difficult to trust and let go, but I shared my fear with God and prayed for His peace. Once I allowed His peace to fill my thoughts there was no stopping His plans for me. I traveled to New England for the first time in 2010 and I’m proud to share this post was written during my New England trip of October 2011. Praise be to God!

Stolen Moments in the Gardened Day by Keith Wallis

Stolen moments in the gardened day as night stalks the wings, a mystery of grasses whisper the coming raft of unlight.. The weight of moments flavours the taste of life: the sweet of early, the sour of late, the aftertaste of solitary now. But, In the warm waiting instant, in meditation, the enormity of life is of no consequence to the gentle ministering minutiae of eternity.

Introducing Elizabeth Baker, Author Elizabeth Baker, Ph.D. is the author of seven books distributed through traditional publishers. She has thirty-five years experience as a Bible teacher, is a Fellow with the Oxford Society of Scholars and served twelve years as a church counselor. Currently living in Pittsburg, Texas, she is semi-retired dividing her time between grandchildren, gardening and freelance writing. A widow since her mid-30's, Elizabeth has four, fantastic grown children, fifteen remarkable grandchildren, and six amazing great-grands. But, she identifies her greatest joy as helping others apply biblical principles to reallife situations. Licensed as a Professional Counselor with the State of Texas, Elizabeth holds a Master of Arts degree in counseling from Liberty University and a Doctor of Philosophy in Religion and Society from Oxford Graduate School. She has been writing professionally for more than thirty years and enjoys giving occasional seminars to both lay and professional audiences. Check out all the FREE STUFF when you visit her website at www.elizabethbakerbooks.com.

A River of Small Stones by Keith Wallis

A “small stone” is a polished moment of paying proper attention to life. This book of “small stones” was written as a challenge to produce a “stone” a day for a month. www.ariverofsmallstones.blogspot.com

Thanksgiving Crafts and Hospitality from Vintage Image Craft Thanksgiving crafts are all about hospitality: Welcoming decorations for the front door, for the walls and windows, and especially for the table. Oh, and turkeys, turkeys, turkeys. The American Victorians loved Thanksgiving. It became a big 19-century cause, with Sarah Hale (the Victorian Martha Stewart) waging a 36-year campaign to establish a national Thanksgiving holiday. That's why vintage images and clip art from the period strike such a nostalgic tone for us today. Popular Thanksgiving crafts then as now include door decorations, like wreaths, sprays and swags. Winter greenery, dried vines, dried herbs and flowers, Indian corn and fruit are favorite materials - and turkeys are always appropriate. Inside, fresh and dried greenery adds harvest atmosphere and scent. Pumpkins are very appropriate to the holiday, along with fresh or dried gourds and flowers. Decorative images of Pilgrims and depictions of the first Thanksgiving are good craft subjects. Oh, and turkeys. The main focus, of course, is the Thanksgiving table. Handmade place cards, napkin rings, personalized linens, and favors are always a sign of hospitality. The table centerpiece can range from seasonal flowers, like chrysanthemums, to holiday harvest symbols like a cornucopia brimming with miniature pumpkins, gourds, fruits and vegetables. The colors of autumn prevail, with pine cones and dark, spicy candles. Or a turkey will work. However your creativity is expressed, Thanksgiving crafts focus on the beauty and bounty of the season. Making decorative crafts is a wonderful way to make your day with family and friends that much more special.

www.vintageimagecraft.com 57

You are invited to join Katherine’s Corner Book Club At Katherine’s Corner you connect with other book lovers and share a new story every month! Every month Katie will post a new book list and you get to vote for your favorite. Then, together we will read the selected book and discuss it via the Book Club page at Katherine’s Corner blog. Once a month a new book will be chosen and you can leave comments on the Book Club page throughout the month. A new book vote will be posted on the 15th of every month. The Book Club at Katherine’s Corner is a “no obligation” book club! Just read the book with the other members of the club and share your thoughts with one another. Settle in, read along, and leave comments on the book whenever the mood strikes you. Once a month is all the commitment needed. The fun part is that you can make comments throughout the month so you don’t have to keep your thoughts on the book silent until a specific meeting date. If you would like to join the Book Club at Katherine’s Corner, simply visit Katie at www.katherinescorner.com and sign up! Then, if you wan to help promote the book club, you can grab the button code to paste into your blog sidebar. You can find the code and all of the details at Katherine’s Corner.

Cowboy Caviar Salad Dressing

from the kitchen of Kausar Iqbal

Ingredients: Salt to taste One can black-eyed beans One can wholevinegar kernel corn 2 tablespoon 2/3 cup thinly chopped green onions 2/3cup choppedOlive cilantro 1 ½ teaspoon oil ½ lb Roma tomatoes, coarsely chopped 1One firm clove ripe avocado garlic crushed ½ cup olives (green) ½ teaspoon freshly crushed cumin

Dressing: Salt to taste 2 tablespoon vinegar 1 ½ teaspoon Olive oil One clove garlic crushed ½ teaspoon freshly crushed cumin One tablespoon lemon juice One teaspoon black pepper

Directions: lemon juice juice, crushed garlic, crushed cumin, salt, pepper then peel, pit and InOne bowltablespoon mix vinegar, oil, lemon cut avocado into 1/2inch cubes. Add vinegar mixture and mix gently to coat. Drain and rinse beans One teaspoon blackto pepper and corn. Add beans, corn, onion, cilantro and tomatoes avocado, mix gently so all coat well. Add salt to taste. Serve salad with chips as an appetizer. 58

UnUn-Buried Treasure by Diedre Diedre Knight Just as the sun peeked over the Catalina Mountains, Beanie ran out the door to begin his exciting adventure. Dressed for a warm autumn day in the desert, he’d packed a spoon from the kitchen for digging and even brought his water cup along, just in case he got thirsty. He’d carefully planned this day, selecting only three of his most very favorite things to be hidden away in a small tin box forever - just like a Pirate’s treasure! But where should he hide the box? He wondered as he walked. Not in the trunk of his musical car, too easy, he decided. Or in his Fireman House, his friends might find it there. Ah, the fragrant rosemary! But as he reached beneath the large bush to hide the box he was surprised to find something! There was the shiny blue Hot Wheels truck he’d been looking for last week! He happily stashed the truck in his backpack and continued his search for a hiding place. Looking further out in the yard for just the perfect spot, he thought beneath the Ocotillo with its pretty orange blooms might be just right and decided to drive his musical car across the yard to see. He reached into the tin box and took out the key to his car. But up close the Ocotillo didn’t seem like a good idea, he needed to find more shade, Beanie decided.

He wandered by a Bird of a Paradise, passed a young Globe Willow, waded in a meadow of tiny purple flowers and finally sat to rest beneath the shade of a tall Mesquite tree. This was nice, he thought as he took a long drink of water from his cup. He smiled as he leaned back against the trunk of the tree. Feeling just a little hungry, he took a small Tootsie Roll from the tin box and savored the sweetness as he watched a family of Quail walk along the wall. Using the kitchen spoon, Beanie began to dig a hole for his treasure. A yellow butterfly stopped by to watch and birds chattered noisily from branches above. Suddenly a sneaky lizard zipped across his foot and Beanie quickly grabbed a rubber band from the tin box, aimed, fired and - popped himself in the chest! Rats! Turning his attention back to his task he was astonished to see beside the hole he’d been digging lay his tin box, open – and empty! With slight dismay, Beanie realized that he now needed to select more treasures for the tin box. Something special, but not something he might need or miss too much. So much to think about, he mused. But for another time because he’d been called inside for lunch and he was very hungry! Yes, another day. Beanie thought, trotting happily to the porch. Another day, for buried treasure. 59

Introducing The M.O.M System Do you struggle to stay organized? Do you find yourself writing and re-writing lists day after day? Do you struggle to get your children to help around the house? Do you find yourself sounding like a “broken record” constantly repeating to your children what they need to do? Do you find that even if your husband or children offer to help it is easier to just do the work yourself than to explain it to others and coordinate them? If you answered “yes” to any of these questions, then The M.O.M. System is for YOU!

“Become the Household Manager (not the Household Doer)” As the household manager, TheMOMSystem helps you organize your priorities and coordinate various needs and tasks for your family. The lists save you time and energy. Start with TheMOMSystem cards and add your own personalization with details or color coding for specific people, priorities, or tasks you have delegated. This allows you to stay more coordinated and be more efficient, leaving you more time and energy for living life well (not just surviving as you fly from crisis to crisis)! Often I found myself being the “Household Doer” instead of the “Household Manager” — I was trying to be the one doing everything, but kept being overwhelmed by my never-ending “to do” list. TheMOMSystem helps you involve your children in ways that give them clear direction, clear expectations, and clear accountability. TheMOMSystem helps you teach them to be personally responsible for the tasks you assign them and helps you hold them accountable for communicating with you about their responsibilities. TheMOMSystem is also a tool to help you coordinate and communicate with others who interact with your household. Husbands, babysitters and grandparents can become more involved when you use TheMOMSystem to communicate with them. TheMOMSystem promotes you from Household Doer to Household Manager by helping you get better organized, delegate to your family, and communicate with those who interact with your household. To learn more about The M.O.M. System, or to purchase The M.O.M System, please visit www.themomsystem.com See coupon on page 70 for a $5.00 OFF coupon when you purchase two sets of

The M.O.M. System 60

Introducing Angela De Souza, Author Angela is the mother of four, Executive Pastor of D7 Church, author and song writer. Brown in Crawley, she spent all of her childhood in South Africa and now lives in Cheltenham with her Brazilian husband, Eric. Angela has a passion to see people reach their full potential. In particular, she has a heart to see women set free from the lies that the enemy has fed them. She has published many books which cover the issues keeping today’s women from being free and also writes a blog about being a 21st century princess. The King’s Daughters Conference is an annual UK women’s conference hosted by Angela where she continues to explore the theme of being a free woman, as God intended! You can read more about Angela and her ministry at www.d7church.co.uk and there is more information about the King’s Daughters Conference on her website at www.kingsdaughters221.co.UK You can also connect with Angela on her blog at http://kingsdaughters21.blogspot.com or on her personal page in the Ruby for Women community at http://rubyforwomen.ning.com/profile/angelacdesouza

Amy Carmichael of Dohnavur Fellowship: “Amma” to the Children of India God calls each one of us to serve Him in different times and places, and in various ministries. Amy Carmichael was called to serve God in India, caring for the orphans in Hindu temples. Her story is told in a book by Elisabeth Elliot, A Chance to Die, as well as several other older biographies. One of the stories that is told of Amy Carmichael is that as a child she had wished for blue eyes instead of brown: “Amy was born in the small village of Millisle, County Down, Northern Ireland to David and Catherine Carmichael. Her parents were devout Presbyterians and she was the eldest of seven siblings.” As a little girl, she “often prayed that Jesus would change her eye color and was disappointed when it never happened.” Amy also loved to pinch her brother’s cheeks to because he had the prettiest color blue eyes! As she grew up, she regretted those times of hurting her brother, and as an adult, “she realized that, because people from India have brown eyes, she would have had a much more difficult time gaining their acceptance if her eyes had been blue.” Amy’s father died when she was only 18, but Amy’s strong commitment and determination to serve the Lord led her to become the founder of the Welcome Evangelical Church in Belfast: “The Welcome’s story begins with Carmichael in the mid 1880’s starting a Sunday morning class for the ‘Shawlies’, i.e. the mill girls who wore shawls instead of hats, in the church hall of Rosemary Street Presbyterian which proved to be very successful. Amy’s work among the Shawlies grew and grew until they needed a hall to seat 500 people. At this time Amy saw an advertisement in The Christian, by which an iron hall could be erected for £500 that would seat 500 people. A donation of £500 from Miss Kate Mitchell, and a donation of a plot of land from one of the mill owners saw the erection of the first "Welcome Hall" on the corner of Cambrai Street and Heather Street in 1887. Amy continued at the Welcome until she received a call to work among the mill girls of Manchester in 1889 before moving onto missionary work. In many ways she was an unlikely candidate for missionary work. She suffered neuralgia, a disease of the nerves that made her whole body weak and achy and often put her in bed for weeks on end. It was at the Keswick Convention of 1887 that she heard Hudson Taylor, founder of the China Inland Mission speak about missionary life. Soon afterwards, she became convinced of her calling to missionary work. She applied to the China Inland Mission and lived in London at the training house for women, where she met author and missionary to China, Mary Geraldine Guinness, who 62

encouraged her to pursue missionary work. She was ready to sail for Asia at one point, when it was determined that her health made her unfit for the work. She postponed her missionary career with the CIM and decided later to join the Church Missionary Society. Initially Carmichael traveled to Japan for fifteen months, but after a brief period of service in Lanka, she found her lifelong vocation in India. She was commissioned by the Church of England Zenana Mission. Hindu temple children were young girls dedicated to the gods and forced into prostitution to earn money for the priests i.e Devadasi. Much of her work was with young ladies, some of whom were saved from forced prostitution. The organization she founded was known as the Dohnavur Fellowship. Dohnavur is situated in Tamil Nadu, thirty miles from the southern tip of India. The fellowship would become a sanctuary for over one thousand children who would otherwise have faced a bleak future. In an effort to respect Indian culture, members of the organization wore Indian dress and the children were given Indian names. She herself dressed in Indian clothes, dyed her skin with dark coffee, and often traveled long distances on India's hot, dusty roads to save just one child from suffering. While serving in India, Amy received a letter from a young lady who was considering life as a missionary. She asked Amy, "What is missionary life like?" Amy wrote back saying simply,

"Missionary life is simply a chance to die." Carmichael's work also extended to the printed page. She was a prolific writer, producing thirty-five published books including Things as They Are: Mission Work in Southern India (1903), His Thoughts Said . . . His Father Said (1951), If (1953), Edges of His Ways (1955) and God's Missionary (1957). In 1931, Carmichael was badly injured in a fall, which left her bedridden much of the time until her death. She died in India in 1951 at the age of 83. She asked that no stone be put over her grave; instead, the children she had cared for put a bird bath over it with the single inscription "Amma", which means mother in the Tamil. Her biography quotes her as saying:

"One can give without loving, but one cannot love without giving." Her example as a missionary inspired others (including Jim Elliot and his wife Elisabeth Elliot) to pursue a similar vocation.

Hast Thou No Scar?

Hast thou no scar? No hidden scar on foot, or side, or hand? I hear thee sung as mighty in the land, I hear them hail thy bright ascendant star, Hast thou no scar? Hast thou no wound? Yet, I was wounded by the archers, spent. Leaned me against the tree to die, and rent By ravening beasts that compassed me, I swooned: Hast thou no wound? No wound? No scar? Yet as the Master shall the servant be, And pierced are the feet that follow Me; But thine are whole. Can he have followed far Who has no wound nor scar? ~~Amy Carmichael

Books by Amy Carmichael: From Sunrise Land: Letters from Japan, Marshall 1895 Things as they are; mission work in southern India, London: Morgan and Scott (1905) Lotus Buds, London: Morgan and Scott (1912) Ragland, pioneer, Madras: S.P.C.K. Depository (1922) (biography of Thomas Gajetan Ragland) Walker of Tinnevelly, London: Morgan & Scott (1916) (biography of Thomas Walker) Candles in the Dark, Christian Literature Crusade (June 1982) Rose from Brier, Christian Literature Crusade (June 1972) Mimosa: A True Story, CLC Publications (September 2005) If, Christian Literature Crusade (June 1999) Gold Cord, Christian Literature Crusade (June 1957) Edges of His Ways, Fort Washington: Christian Literature Crusade (1955) Mountain Breezes: The Collected Poems of Amy Carmichael, Christian Literature Crusade (August 1999) Whispers of His Power, CLC Publications (June 1993) Thou Givest They Gather, CLC Publications (June 1970) Ploughed Under : The Story of a Little Lover, Society for Promoting Christian Knowledge (SPCK) (1934) Kohila: The Shaping of an Indian Nurse, CLC Publications (July 2002) Sources for this article: Elliot, Elisabeth, A Chance to Die: the Life and Legacy of Amy Carmichael. Grand Rapids, MI: Fleming H. Revell Company, 1987. Wellman, Sam, Amy Carmichael: A Life Abandoned to God. Barbour Publishing, 1998 Bingham, Derick, The Wild-Bird Child: A Life of Amy Carmichael. Ambassador-Emerald International (2004) ISBN 1840301449, ISBN 9781840301441 65

Ruby Pearls for November by Beth Brubaker November 2nd is Look for Circles Day! Have fun with your kids or grandkids, nieces or nephews, looking for circles everywhere in the world around you! November 8th is Young Readers Day! Take your child to the bookstore or library and pick out something to read together! November 15th is Clean Your Refrigerator Day! This should be great fun . . . . find out whatâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s lurking in the back of your refrigerator and if it hasnâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;t been there TOO long, you can have Leftover Day, as well! November 25th is Buy Nothing Day! The day after Thanksgiving, do you really think this is going to work? Except maybe for those of us who hate to go shopping ANY day of the year, this would work out just perfectly!

Would you like to advertise with Ruby for Women? Please contact Angela Morris, Advertising Administrator, at amorris@rubyforwomen.com for all of the details on our new advertising packages. We would be honored to share your family-friendly, home-based business with our readers.

Hummus from the kitchen of Kausar Iqbal Ingredients: 1 cup raw chickpeas or one tin chickpeas 2-3 cloves of garlic 2 tablespoons lemon juice 4 tablespoons roasted sesame seeds 3-4 tablespoons extra virgin olive oil Salt Pepper Directions: Soak the chickpeas overnight and boil them or just add chickpeas from the tin into a food processor, grind the chickpeas, garlic, sesame seeds, lemon juice salt and pepper adding water as needed to get a smooth paste. Then add one tablespoon of oil at a time and blend, it becomes a nice creamy dip. Taste for spices and salt. To serve put the dip in a bowl. Make an indentation in the hummus with back of spoon and drizzle some olive oil. Sprinkle some pepper on top. 66

Thanksgiving Food Word Search Puzzle Answer Key by Beth Brubaker

Ruby for Women is searching for . . . Questions! We need your help! Ruby is looking for questions in the following areas: * “Ask Beth” * “Ask a Silly Question” Can you give us a hand? Please send your questions to Beth Brubaker at bethatruby@aol.com with one of the two titles in the subject line of your email. Your response is very much appreciated! 67

Thanksgiving with the Family Word Scramble Puzzle Answer Key by Beth Brubaker

Hereâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s a great opportunity to discover the benefits of The M.O.M. System! Visit The M.O.M. System website and place your order for two deluxe boxes and get $5.00 off the purchase price. Great for gift-giving for your own mom, your daughter, your girlfriend . . . . or anyone who would like to be a little bit more organized! www.TheMOMSystem.com

Inspired Women Succeed Changing the Face of Success by Jo Ann Fore Inspired Women Succeed redefines success. In this book of courage and hope, you will connect with forty brave-hearted Christian women entrepreneurs who faced unfathomable trials with heroic faith. This passionate group of women authentically shares their life-transforming stories. Breathe in their heartfelt words and experience a rich inspiration woven throughout the book, like an intricate, delicate tapestry. Be inspired as these women discover their life’s passion. Be challenged by their words as you learn to use your own life experiences as a catalyst for success. One common denominator runs deep through these stories: inspiration. This book is about real women doing real life. Our goal is to be transparent, and to offer you that same permission. In some way, each of these women’s stories is a piece of our own. Maybe the circumstances of fallout are not quite the same, but the emotionally expensive lessons are quite similar. What is an inspired woman? An inspired woman is easy to recognize. We are passionate and seek to live life to the fullest. We can be a bit moody; at times, happy and sweet, and other times cranky and tired. We share with people who need us, too often giving our time away. We anticipate problems before they are spoken, and strive to stay strong in troubled times. Inspired women work really hard. We can do surprising, downright amazing things, when pushed. What is success? What scoreboard determines true success? Must we be famous? Rich? Well-credentialed experts? Whether we acknowledge it or not, the way we measure success greatly impacts our lives. As Christian women, our success is inspired from a sense of calling; measured by our loyalty to God in spite of life’s circumstances or outcome. Inspired Women Succeed is a heart song for women; full of faithful, successful women who stepped out. Amazing things happen when women follow their inspiration. For a free download of the first chapter, visit www.inspiredwomensucceed.com. Jo Ann Fore (www.JoAnnFore.com) is an author, writing coach, certified Life Coach, and coauthor, alongside Diane Cunningham (www.DianeCunningham.com) of the book, Inspired Women Succeed. She is passionate about making a difference in the lives of other women. Visit Jo Ann at www.soyouwanttowrite.org. 70

http://shilocom.com/

www.katherinescorner.com This holiday season, let Danie show you how to Send Out Cards that are personalized, quick and easy! https://www.sendoutcards.com/2811/

www.compelling-creations.com/cathiegarnier

A Garden of Love by Thomas B. Clarke A Garden of Love is an experience that takes us deep into the heart of God's love. Using flowers to paint images of Christian love, I would like to take you on a spiritual journey that touched my heart and will hopefully touch yours, revealing the depth of God's love. Thirty flowers are featured in this book, calling us to respond in intimate relationship with the Lord and the fullness of Christian love. Sense how the flowers usher in softness, gentleness, and peace as each precious plant reveals another aspect of grace or kindness, joy or forgiveness, patience or faithfulness. A Garden of Love can be purchased on Tomâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s website at www.bible-discernments.com

Abundant Comfort and Grace Inspirational Poetry by Connie Arnold www.conniearnold.blogspot.com

www.mamaslittletreasures.etsy.com 72

‘Cause Angels Can’t Sing by Elizabeth Baker Order yours today! 10 copies of “Cause Angels Can’t Sing” each booklet contains 5 short stories of faith for the Holidays. Thirty-eight pages to touch your heart and make you smile. Available at www.elizabethbakerbooks.com 10 matching gift envelopes ready for mailing or to tuck under the tree. The perfect holiday remembrance for teachers, coworkers and groups! Each copy of “’Cause Angels Can’t Sing” contains 5 short stories that are sure to put even Grinch in a holiday mood. Stories of romance, humor and drama explore faith and keep the real meaning of Christmas clear. Readers will sympathize with ten-year-old Kadyn as he struggles to separate the real meaning of Christmas from holiday fluff, and laugh as Curtis and Chelsea debate which one of them will eat the monkey pie offered by their Oriental guest. Rene finds new hope as she takes her firstborn home on Christmas Day and Regina is serving wassail, but it comes with an unwelcome attitude. But across town, tears are about to change to romance as Jenise receives a Christmas promise. (Sh-h-h, there’s a secret bonus! The recipe for Monkey Pie is included at the end of each 38-page the booklet!) Order yours today from www.elizabethbakerbooks.com 73

A Friend in Need â&#x20AC;Ś Is there something you need, but just can't seem to find? Are you looking for a recipe, a store location, or the best places to go in a certain area? Do you have an item you would like to give to someone, but no one near you needs it? Send your requests into the magazine (bethatruby@aol.com) with 'A Friend in Need' in the subject line and we'll publish it for you! When making a request, please include a current email address for a direct reply. Those who are answering queries are to correspond to the posted email address directly, and not to the staff of Ruby for Women. Items offered must be free (except for shipping costs, agreed to be paid by the receiving party unless otherwise agreed upon by the giver and receiver). All postal regulations must be followed. Ruby for Women can not be responsible for shipping costs or lost items.

The world is so full of a number of things, I'm sure we should all be as happy as kings!" Treasures can be found everywhere you look, and here at "Tatters to Treasures" we will bring you the best of vintage for your wardrobe and home. www.tatterstotreasures.etsy.com

A Real Change International with Sandi Krakowski Sandi Krakowski, renowned social media coach and founder of A Real Change International, has spent years developing programs that turn small businesses into multi-million dollar companies. Her personal success in the business world has made her coaching sessions, eBooks and online marketing classes extremely popular. If you are looking to make A Real Change in YOUR life, visit Sandi at her website, A Real Change International at www.arealchange.com/blog

DoveQuill Publishing is a grass-roots company created out of our need to have a voice in the mainstream publishing world. DoveQuill Publishing is ever-busy creating family-oriented books, pamphlets, and associated products so we might offer the Christian family high-quality literature and information. Please visit us for all your publishing needs at www.dove-quill-publishing.com

Introducing the Ruby for Women Administrative Team Over the past two years, the ministry of Ruby for Women has grown into a full-time ministry for several women here in the Ruby community. We have been blessed to be able to partner with women from all over the United States in the work of Ruby for Women, and we are currently in the process of adding four new administrators to our team. If you would be interested in joining the Ruby for Women administrative team, please email our assistant editor, Amanda Johnson, at ajohnson@rubyforwomen.com Here are the current members of the Ruby for Women Administrative team: Sr. Editor, Nina Newton Assistant Editor, Amanda Johnson Advertising Administrator, Angela Morris Affiliate Administrator and Pastor at Ruby for Women, Carol Mokry Membership and Communication Administrator, Lynda Thorn Blog and Community Website Assistant, Jackie McMillan Creative Consultant and Graphic Designer, Katherine Corrigan 75

Meet the Ruby for Women Writers Aunt Dots, Master Gardener Aunt Dots has been writing for Ruby for Women since the very beginning. Her love for gardening started early in her life: “I believe I got my love for growing flowers from my mother. She had a large flower garden with annuals and dahlias. I had my first flower garden after I married and we lived in a garden apartment. I planted seeds in a small 4 X 6 plot in front. Then we moved to a house trailer next to my mother where I had annuals.” She now has perennial gardens, rose gardens, grape vines, asparagus, currants, gooseberries, walnut trees, apple trees, and hazelnut trees. In the winter months, Aunt Dots sews, making quilts that she has donated to a Mennonite Relief auction. She has also made hand-made paper and greeting cards with pressed flowers. In her “spare” time, Aunt Dots volunteers two afternoons a week at a nursing home, as well as serving on the mission board at her church and teaching an adult Sunday school class.

Scott Henderson, Vintage Image Crafts Scott is the creator of Vintage Image Crafts, a website where vintage images are the inspiration behind all of the crafts and scrapbooking projects. From the romantic to the whimsical, Victorian and turn-of-the-century illustrations can give your creativity a distinctive touch. These classic illustrations and photographs are rich in color, artistic technique and symbolism. This bygone art captures the essence of life’s highlights - holidays, celebrations and sentiments – vividly. You can find Scott at www.vintageimagecrafts.com

Beth Brubaker, Footprints in the Mud and Ask Beth Beth is the “Family Fun” editor here in the Ruby for Women community. She is a mother of two very active kids whose antics are sprinkled liberally in her columns. She has been married for 13 years to her Knight in Shining Armor, and she is delighted to share with us that they still hold hands in public! Her day job is working as a fabric artist, a homemaker, and a writer. Beth will be writing humorous articles about life in general, puzzles, and an advice column that is based on readers’ questions, as well as sharing hints and tips for everyday life that she comes across in her travels between her laundry room, living room, and kitchen. Don’t miss Beth’s columns in every issue of Ruby for Women! You can read more of Beth’s posts on her blog, “Footprints in the Mud” at www.footprintsinthemudblog.blogspot.com or email her at bethatruby@aol.com

Laura Brandt is the owner of Wentworth County Quiltworks and a child of the King whose one desire is to please the Lord. She quilts and she maintains two blogs, as well as serving as a Moderator at Authorized Version Bible Believers Fellowship forum. She’s also edited books for up-and-coming Christian authors. Visit Laura at her blogs, http://wentworthcountyquiltworks.blogspot.com and http://laurasthoughtsonscripture.blogspot.com, her new quilting website, www.wentworthcountyquiltworks.com or the forum at http://www.avbbf.com 76

Lynn Mosher, Devotions Since the year 2000, Lynn Mosher has lived with fibromyalgia and other physical conditions. During this time, the Lord placed the desire in her heart to write for Him. Now, armed with God’s purpose for her life and a new passion, she reaches out to others to encourage and comfort them through her writing, giving God all the glory. She lives with her husband in their empty nest in Kentucky. On occasion, their three offspring, who have flown the coop, come to visit, accompanied by a son-in-law and three granddaughters. Visit Lynn at her blog, Heading Home, at www.lynnmosher.blogspot.com

Carol Mokry, Affiliate Administrator, Ruby for Women

“Jesus found me 37 years ago and we have been walking together ever since. He has been my help, hope and strength as I have walked through dark miles of trials and adversity. First and foremost I am a woman called to follow Jesus Christ. I am a wife, a mother, a grandmother, and a credentialed minister with the Assemblies of God. It is my relationship with God that has made me who I am today. In all these things I can say if God is for me who can be against me, I am more than a conqueror in Him who loves me!”

Lee E. Shilo, Poetry and Short Stories I live on Vancouver Island, in Victoria, Canada, with my loving wife Elisabeth, paranoid cat, and crazy dog. I enjoy writing Poetry, Children Stories, Fantasy/Fiction, and especially (Believe It Or Not) stories. I have been writing professionally for close to 20 years, and have numerous Published Books / eBooks in that time. At present I am retired, but used to work in the print industry producing Wide Format Displays for Conferences and stuff. As well as being my passion, writing affords me some release of daily frustrations and everyday tensions. www.shilocom.com

Katherine Corrigan, Recipes and Crafts Hello, my name is Katherine. I am an open minded and spiritual person who strives to always maintain a positive attitude and greet each new day with grace, dignity and gratitude. I’m honored to meet you and to call you friend! I am originally from England and now living in the US. I have had the privilege of living in, and visiting, several different countries throughout my lifetime. I hold a rare dual citizenship with the UK and the USA, and I am a proud citizen of both. I work very hard to create designs for my shops and to provide an entertaining and informative website and blog. I hope you’ll stop by. Hugs, Katherine www.madeitforyou.com www.giftsbykatherine.com www.katherinescorner.com

Jennifer Cirka, Crochet Patterns and Recipes Jennifer Cirka, the designer behind Jaybird Designs, is never without a hook and some yarn in her hands! This Crochet Guild of America recognized Professional Crochet Designer has a book of her girls’ sweater designs with Leisure Arts and has been featured in major crochet magazines such as Crochet Today, Interweave Crochet, and Crochet World, with more publications coming out each year! www.jaybirddesigns.com www.jaybirddesigns.blogspot.com www.etsy.com/shop/JaybirdDesigns 77

Theresa Ceniccola

is The Christian Mompreneur, a Mentor to Moms Who are Running a Business that Supports Faith and Family. She empowers entrepreneurial moms to build profitable businesses with wisdom and grace through the Christian Mompreneur Mastermind program and her professional Marketing services, which include copywriting, marketing and strategy consulting and private coaching. The Christian Mompreneur monthly ezine offers inspiration and support for the faith-filled business journey. If you are ready to go the distance in your business while remaining true to your values, sign up for a F.R.E.E. subscription at www.theresaceniccola.com.

Kristin Bridgman I’ve been married to a very sweet, patient, loving man for 29 years. I’ve been a mom to two sons I love with all my heart for 22 years. I’ve been a born again Christian loving the Lord for 36 years. I home schooled for 14 years. I’m just an ordinary woman who lives for an extraordinary God. http://www.ponderingsbykris.blogspot.com

Yvonne Anderson, The Doctor’s Innsite I have been called to teach. It is one of the five-fold ministry gifts with Jesus as the Master Teacher. For a while, I had forgotten that teaching is a ministry. God allowed me to take some time of to regain my focus. I know today that teaching is my ministry and that I am called, anointed, and appointed to this field to further His Kingdom.

Connie Arnold, Poetry

Connie Arnold lives in North Carolina, is married and has two children and three grandchildren. In coping with lupus, fibromyalgia and other difficulties, she has turned to the Lord for inspiration and offers her inspirational poetry to offer encouragement, comfort and hope to others who are suffering. She is the author of Beautiful Moments of Joy and Peace, Abiding Hope and Love, and Abundant Comfort and Grace plus a new 2012 inspirational calendar, Glimpses of Grace. She also writes for children and is the author of Animal Sound Mix-up and has two other children’s books under contract. You can visit Connie at www.conniearnold.webs.com or her blog, www.conniearnold.blogspot.com

Sheila Watson, Kraklow, Guest Writer, DoveQuill Publishers Sheila is the author of several books, including “Nana’s Great BIG Storybook,” and “A Mission for Leedle Burro,” as well as a cookbook filled with her “sassy recipe” articles. Sheila is also the owner of DoveQuill Publishing Company. www.dove-quill-publishing.com

Deborah McCarragher, Devotional Contributor Deborah is the author of a Christian inspirational book for women titled “Mission Possible”. The book addresses living in a spiritually-uneven household. You can visit her website at www.AlabasterBoxPublishing.com for more information about her book.

Amy Lignor, The Write Companion Amy Lignor is the founder of Write Companion. Her blog touches on various subjects important to the industry like the power of social networking for authors, the world of self-publishing and how it’s starting to make the normal way of doing business obsolete, as well as subjects dealing with the art of writing, film, books, the classics, daily life, etc. that will hopefully inspire authors while adding a laugh or two to their day. www.thewritecompanion.com www.thefeatheredquill.com www.HumorOutcasts.com

Maxine Young I was born into a Christian family, attended church every week and Church schools even, but it is now as an adult that I am truly learning how to have a personal relationship with the Lord. You can read more of Maxine’s articles and posts on her blog, Hope and Writing http://hopeandwriting.blogspot.com/

Angela Blake Morris, Advertising Administrator, Ruby for Women I am a fairly new Christian led to Christ by a friend and my daughter’s insistence that we go to church. That began a journey for me that has been awesome and inspiring. I now have my own blog page where we seek to lift up stay-at-home moms and homeschooling families, Chronicles of Christian Moms. http://csahm.webs.com

Charlotte Siems is a home-maker, home manager, T-Tapp Trainer, teacher, speaker and author. Her story of losing over 100 pounds with TTapp has encouraged thousands of people all over the world. She specializes in making home management and T-Tapp "doable" for real people and real life. She is happy to be a wife and mother of twelve children whom she has successfully taught at home for 25 years. Visit Charlotte and read more of her blog posts at www.charlottesiems.com

Scarlett Von Gunten, CEO & Editor of iWoman Magazine. For more information or to contact Scarlett, please visit her at www.iwomanmag.com

Thomas B. Clarke, “A Garden of Love” I am the caretaker of the Gethsemane Prayer Garden in Syracuse, NY, and an author/publisher of Christian books. Both gardening and writing are part-time jobs for me, but they are my heartfelt passion: to help others experience Jesus Christ in a more personal way and to grow in love. www.agardenoflove.com

Keith Wallis, Poetry Keith Wallis is an English poet. He is a senior part of the leadership team of Houghton Regis Baptist church. An engineering designer by trade, he brings a eye for detail as well as faith into his poetry. As well as being ‘poet in residence’ at Ruby ezine, he is a moderator at ChristianWriters.com. His blog of ekphrasic poetry is: http://wordsculptures-keith.blogspot.com/ where you’ll also find links to his books and his other blogs. Married to Val in 1970, he has two sons and three grandsons. The eldest grandson is disabled and cannot communicate verbally. Though not an ‘academic’ (school was a disaster) he was always fond of writing. He began submitting work for publication in the 1980’s after being encouraged by a community writer in residence.

Diedre Knight

is an Arizona native and accomplished writer of fiction for youth and the young at heart. An avid reader, frequent camper, her work often reflects the inspiration gleaned from the southwestern outdoors. Accolades and associations include The Society of Children’s Book Writers and Illustrators, Society of Southwestern Authors, Arizona Mystery Writers, Desert Southwest Chapter of the Alzheimer’s Association, Stories for Children Magazine, Purveyor and contributor of www.streampebbles.fatcow.com website.

Elizabeth Baker is an author and retired counselor drawing on thirty-five years of experience helping individuals apply biblical principles to real-life situations. She currently lives in Pittsburg, Texas where she concentrates on her writing. A widow since her mid 30's, Elizabeth has four grown children, fifteen grandchildren, and six great-grands. You can find Elizabeth’s books at her website at www.elizabethbakerbooks.com

Kausar Iqbal, East World Market and CD Crafts East World Market actively supports arts and crafts in Pakistan. We market creative products by underprivileged women internationally, and help them to become self-sufficient. The artisans on our team come from many small cities across the nation and are trained in a broad range of crafts. By channeling their talents, these artisans have managed to make a viable living for themselves, and have grown in their respective specializations. Now, EWM aims to showcase them actively in the American and international markets. 80

Amanda Johnson, Assistant Editor Amanda has been writing for Ruby for Women for the past year, and she has been a free-lance writer for several years, beginning her writing career as a young teen-ager. She also works for Love Unveiled, a ministry to women in undeveloped countries around the world. Amanda brings experience as well as a passion for ministry to the work of Ruby for Women, and she has a heart for reaching out and touching the hearts and lives of women everywhere. Amanda will be working with all of our writers on their submissions, as well as assisting in keeping the Ruby for Women blog and website up-to-date with new information daily.

Nina Newton, Sr. Editor When all of my four older children were in school, I returned to college as a “nontraditional 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. Gracie is 10 years old and Annie is 8. They were both born in China, and we were able to travel to China two times to bring our daughters home. We live in northern Indiana in a small farming community where I work from my home office. For the past six years I have been designing and creating children’s clothing and various crafts. I began writing ebook patterns for my designs in 2007, and have several patterns available for sale on You Can Make This at www.youcanmakethis.com . I have also been a free-lance writer for many years, writing for two local newspapers when we lived in Michigan. My personal blog is at www.mamaslittletreasures.com where I frequently post tutorials and patterns for crafts and other sewing projects, as well as weekly reflections on life as a woman, wife, mother, and daughter of the King.

We hope you have enjoyed this issue of the Ruby for Women ezine. Please write to us and share your ideas, your recipes and crafts, your poetry and stories, so that we can hare them with all of our wonderful readers here at Ruby for Women. And please visit our community and join us at www.rubyforwomen.ning.com 81

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 for Women may be reproduced, copied, or shared without the permission of the author. Advertising information is available at www.rubyforwomen.com/advertise Questions? Email Nina @ editor@rubyforwomen.com or Amanda @ ajohnson@rubyforwomen.com Ruby for Women is published by rubyforwomen.com All submission inquiries should be directed to Nina Newton, Sr. Editor Ruby for Women editor@rubyforwomen.com or Amanda Johnson, Assistant Editor ajohnson@rubyforwomen.com Advertising inquiries should be directed to Angela Morris at amorris@rubyforwomen.com Graphic design by Jorim http://jorimslist.com/portfolio Web Design and Creative Consultant, Katherine Corrigan of Made It For You www.madeitforyou.com Please visit our community website at www.rubyforwomen.ning.com to see how you can help support the ministry of Ruby for Women. Special thanks to Scott and Martin of Vintage Image Craft for sharing their amazing craft ideas with the Ruby for Women community! The new Ruby for Women banner was created by Katherine Corrigan of Made It For You at www.madeitforyou.com