Ruby february 2016

Ruby for Women January, 2016 “A voice for every Christian woman”

Ruby for Women A voice for every Christian woman FEBRUARY, 2016 www.rubyforwomen.com

February gives us a special opportunity to tell the people in our lives that we love them. Here at Ruby for Women, we want to let YOU know how much we appreciate you and your support for the ministry of Ruby. Please visit us on the Ruby blog at http://www,rubyforwomen.com and let us know how we can be an encouragement to you today!

We would love to hear from you. Contact us at editor@rubyforwomen.com Senior Editor: Nina Newton

In This Issue . . .

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Title

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Is it spring yet?

Nina Newton, Sr. Editor

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Footprints in the Mud: How to Train a Human Beth Brubaker, Asst. Editor

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A House of Cards Jewell Utt

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Dressed Stones Joan Leotta

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Voice Prompts at the Pearly Gates Mary Dolan Flaherty

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True Love Frances Gregory Pasch

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Sweet Inspirations for Valentine’s Day Vintage mama

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Check the Temperature Puzzle Beth Brubaker

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Picking Up God’s Pennies Sharon L. Patterson

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Snow Out of Season Christy Brunke

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Another Place Rhea B. Riddle

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Page 7

Page 15

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Ruby for Women is an online Christian women’s magazine that offers words of hope, inspiration, and Assistant Editor: Beth Brubaker encouragement to women everywhere. Knowing that every woman has a story to tell, we seek to give a Poet-in-Residence: Keith Wallis “voice to every Christian woman,” from all walks of life, Feature Writers: Lynn Mosher, Katherine Corrigan, of every age, from all around the world.

Sharon L. Patterson, Carol Peterson, Gloria Doty, Sarah Johnson, Miriam Jacob, Michelle Lazurek, For advertising inquiries, please contact Nina Newton Cynthia Knisley, Heather King, Lanette Kissel, Donna at editor@rubyforwomen.com B. Comeaux, Linda McKee, Connie Arnold, Ifeoma If you would like to share your story with Ruby for Samuel, Alisha Ritchie, Kathleen Katt Luce, Mia Women, please email our Assistant Editor, Beth DeBruyne, Joan Leotta, Connie Arnold, Cindy J. Brubaker at bethaatruby@aol.com Also, please visit Evans, Ifeoma Samuel, Jonathan Lawrence, Jewell our blog at www.rubyforwomen.com where you can Utt, Frances Gregory Pasch, Amy Lignor, Rejetta connect with other Christian women.

Morse, Norma Mezoe, Kathryn Ross, Rhea B. 1 Ruby for Women Riddle, Mary Dolan Flaherty, Jean Ann Williams 65 S. Niles St. Columbia City, IN 46725 editor@rubyforwomen.com

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Title

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Kids’ Korner Sharon L. Patterson

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Things that Really Matter Kathleen Katt Luce

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The Snowflake Jewell Utt

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Winter Trees Rejetta Morse

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Stepping into the Unknown Lynn Mosher

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Just Claire Jean Ann Williams

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Your Little is More than Enough Ifeoma Samuel

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Because I Like You! Puzzle Beth Brubaker

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Bring a Cowboy Home Gloria Doty

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Belonging . . . .

Sharon L. Patterson

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Teacher Power Kathleen Katt Luce

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The Infinite Air

by Fiona Kidman Book Review by Miriam Jacob

Page

49

Check the Temperature Puzzle Answer Key Beth Brubaker

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Because I Like You! Puzzle Answer Key Beth Brubaker

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Sign of Affection Puzzle Answer Key Beth Brubaker

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Meet the Ruby Writers Credits and copyrights

Page 43

Page 47

Page 35

Rediscover Traditional Fiber Arts at Vintage Mama’s Cottage

Page 36

Mitzy & the Trouble with Bubbles Aaron Field

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Im-possible or Him-possible?

Cindy J. Evans

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Little Girl Mended Niki Krauss

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Happily Never After Jonathan Lawrence

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Carol’s Book Club Carol Peterson

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Sign of Affection Puzzle Beth Brubaker The Gatekeeper’s Key Kathryn Ross

With Faith Like Hers Bible study series Carol Peterson

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43

47

Page 23

Page 32

Title

Page 38

2 Page 41

Jean Ann Williams, author of Just Claire and God’s Mercies after Suicide

Ruby for Women Magazine and Blog You have a story to tell and we want to hear it! God has given a voice to every Christian woman and we celebrate YOUR voice.

Please visit us at the

Ruby for Women blog and share your story with us! * * * *

Inspirational posts Featured bloggers FREE seasonal online magazine Crafts, recipes, poetry, and stories We would love to hear from you!

www.rubyforwomen.com

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Find FREE printable calendars from Curio 000000000000000000000000000000000000000000000000000000

Is it spring yet?

Nina Newton, Sr. Editor This winter seemed like it was going to be one of those mild winters when we get an occasional snow storm that blows through and leaves an inch or two of heavy, wet snow on the grass and trees. But frequently when that happens, it all melts before it can do too much damage. Things were going along quite pleasantly right up to Christmas.

Our girls were even complaining that we didn’t have any snow on the ground for Christmas, and in all the little shops on Main Street I was hearing how business was down this year because there was no snow, and people just didn’t seem to be “in the mood.” All around us we could only see bare, black branches against the moody, dark gray sky, and dead brown grass speckled with mud puddles.

Occasionally, on a little rise that didn’t receive much sunlight, there would be patches of dirty snow that really seemed to be even more dismal than if we had piles and piles of bright white snow, glistening in the sunshine.

Christmas came and went, and then winter finally came to Our Town. It didn’t last long, for which we were grateful, but we got a double dose of cold, snow, and wind. It was so cold that some days it was challenging to work, my hands would be freezing while I was trying to sew or work on the computer.

And the wind! We could hear it howling outside the bedroom windows at night, but thankfully we were all tucked up in our cozy, warm house. With a fireplace. And fuzzy blankets and slippers.

So I was not surprised when, the first week of January, everyone at our house started to come down with a cough, sore throat, sniffles, and ear ache. It happens every year, and we try to fight it off as best we can with preventative measures, but still this year it arrived with even more energy than in recent years.

One of our girls missed over a week of school, the other one was mostly just miserable for a few days, but I found myself rather incapacitated for almost two weeks. Between a fever and cough, sore throat and ear ache, it was all I could do to get through a day and take care of those necessary responsibilities that come with being a mother.

In the midst of all that misery, there were other activities that had to be attended to, including a wedding reception for some of our closest friends, for one thing, that happened to be planned for our house. It all worked out OK because these friends are the kind we all need . . . . they can just pop on over and even if I’m wiped out in my jammies on the couch, they just pitch in and fix supper, or hang out with the girls, or do whatever needs to be done to make life a bit easier. I’m grateful for friend like that!

Today, however, I’m ready for spring. I don’t really mind winter, but all the stuff that comes with it can be rather annoying. It’s time for the sunshine to come back, for the days to be warm enough to take a walk around the blog, and it’s time for weather that beckons my girls outside on an afternoon to shoot hoops or toss a volley ball around. So I can catch up on all the projects that I couldn’t do in January. I know it is only February, but I’m really hoping it is almost spring!

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Footprints in the Mud: How to Train a Human

by Beth Brubaker, Assistant Editor I was challenged to make up a joke using this as the first line: ‘A Pastor, a Rabbi and a German Shepherd walk into a religious book store…’ So I did.

A Pastor, a Rabbi and a German Shepherd walk into a religious book store. The pastor and rabbi get into a debate over their Scriptures while the dog watches with keen interest.

As the debate ensued, the dog got up, pulled a copy of the Bible and the Torah from the shelves, and then trotted towards the cashier. The men, perplexed by the dog’s actions agreed to pay for the tomes.

The dog sat with his bag of new purchases, wagging his tail happily. “Why would a dog want a copy of the Bible and the Torah?” the pastor asked the rabbi.

Before the rabbi could answer, the dog replied “I knew there were books on dog training, but I never knew there were books to train people!”

Yes, I really did make that joke up.

Some guy referred to me and my friend as a dog once, to which I asked my friend “Does that mean we can bite him?” She shook her head and replied “NahWe’d probably get rabies anyway.”

At first I was insulted by his caustic remark; but I started thinking…is being a dog really all that bad?

Maybe not the way that guy had meant it, but I like to think outside the yard. Let’s look at how God treats us versus training a dog.

God wants us to be obedient. We are not.

Sometimes He needs to swat us on the nose with a newspaper to get the point across and behave. He doesn’t give treats until we listen.

God wants us to learn. If we keep doing the wrong things - or acting wrong in the same situation - He might just bring that situation back to us over and over again until we get it right.

Dogs love unconditionally. Dogs love you no matter what, if they are trained to love. But people? Not so much.

We tend to have the unconditional love grow out of us when we grow up, because the world is a big ol’ bowl of gourmet doggie food. I think that’s why kids and dogs get along so well. They’re almost the same, except for the fur and tails.

God is trying to train us to walk with Him, and all we do is pull on the leash and pee on His leg. But does God give us up for adoption? Nope. He breaks out the Wet Wipes and starts the training session all over again. All because He loves us.

God wants us to be like little kids. Follow him when He calls, do what He says, and listen when He speaks. Maybe He made dogs as an example for us. I’d like to think He did. So the next time someone calls me a dog, instead of biting him, I’ll say ‘Thanks!’

Though I sorely would love to pee on his leg…but I’d rather not get God’s newspaper across my nose, thank you very much!

Visit Beth Brubaker at Footprints in the Mud to read her humorous, inspirational posts. 6

A House of Cards

by Jewell Utt

By wisdom a house is built, and through understanding it is established; through knowledge its rooms are filled with rare and beautiful treasures. Proverbs 24:3-4 (NIV) It's raining again. Gray clouds cast darkness over my typically sun-filled space. I'm sensitive to the imposing shadow. It dims my glow.

A quick scan of the room reveals intention. Intricate designs, loving notes, precious faces, and treasured books coexist with a symphony of trickling water, Beethoven, and bird songs. Each trinket and sound a reminder of family, friends, and experiences.

Amid the beauty is a black rock. I keep it as a reminder that ugly exists. It symbolizes people, places, and circumstances that brought darkness into my world. I can focus on the black rock: dredging up past hurts, regrets, and unfortunate relationships. Or I can reflect on the blessings that surround me.

"God is light, in Him there is no darkness at all." 1John 1:5. We can depend on the storms of life to pay regular visits, but we have a powerful refuge in God. When we seek to be in His presence, we are certain to gain His light. Wisdom is found when we regularly visit the hidden places He provides.

Matthew 7:24-27 says, “Therefore everyone who hears these words of mine and puts them into practice is like a wise man who built his house on the rock. The rain came down, the streams rose, and the winds blew and beat against that house; yet it did not fall, because it had its foundation on the rock. But everyone who hears these words of mine and does not put them into practice is like a foolish man who built his house on sand. The rain came down, the streams rose, and the winds blew and beat against that house, and it fell with a great crash.�

A house of cards is fragile, crumbling due to the slightest change. When we practice the presence of God, we build our house on His solid foundation, firm and secure. We can stand.

Ugly Happens. Expect it. Stay alert.

Establish your house on the rare and beautiful treasures found in Scripture. Being in His presence is an intentional pursuit. Winter blues? His light will brighten your outlook.

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Dressed Stones

by Joan Leotta Lifting each stone from the ground I inspect its size and shape preparing it to fit with its fellows.

I chip, pound, hammer round so each stone will slide into its rightful place building my poem-the bridge linking my heart to yours.

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Voice Prompts at the Pearly Gates

by Mary Dolan Flaherty Flinging my arm over to slap the snooze button, my hand hits air.

Where did my night table go? And why is music playing through the alarm clock? My eyes feel like they’ve been sewn shut, and my brain is fuzzy. It’s more than morning fog; it’s like I’m in another dimension. Here but not here. Like I’m having trouble leaving one place to be completely in another.

The music grows louder as I attempt to rouse myself from this state of suspended slumber. "Holy! Holy! Holy! Worthy is the Lamb!" I hear a million voices, yet it sounds like one. They’re all singing the same melody, yet I count four...no...six...no...eightpart harmony. Maybe more.

I can’t name the notes I’ve never heard - notes as high as birdsong and as low as thunder. The sound reverberates inside me like an earthquake, erupting into my senses like a volcano and rushing through me like a waterfall. At the same time, it is like a whisper, a silent call beckoning me out of my confusion.

The weight lifts from my eyes, and they flutter a few times before fully opening. Colors like I’ve never seen are above me, around me and beneath me. Hundreds, maybe thousands, maybe more.

Colors I cannot name, because they are unlike anything I’ve ever seen. Clear, vibrant, multi-dimensional.

My senses are multiplied and more pronounced. I want to touch every color because somehow, it seems as if I can, yet I don’t want to move in case the beauty disappears. The urge to explore wins.

Swinging around to put my feet on the floor, I’m surprised to find there is none. The fear of falling--like I so often dream of-momentarily takes over, and I instinctively flap my arms out to the sides. Next thing I know, I’m--well--hovering. Checking my arms for wings, I see there are none.

Not surprising. I never thought I’d make angel status up here. Or do you have to earn them, like Clarence did in It’s a Wonderful Life? I was hoping that the striving to earn would be over once I got here. Then again, maybe you don’t become an angel. Maybe God made angels and humans to be separate beings.

While I’m pondering this, I notice that I’m moving. I’ve always had a habit of walking when I think. I wouldn’t call this walking, nor is it flying. It’s more like being on a scooter or something--but without9 the scooter--weightless and effortless. It feels kind of cool, so I start tooling around in the clouds.

Until I run smack up against a gate--a pair of them actually. I think it’s The Gates--the pearly ones. Unmanned. I look around and see only clouds. Not a soul anywhere. I always assumed there would be a line.

Am I really the only one who's died in the last...? I look at my watch--the hands are spinning around. Oh, that's right, no time up here. I think about becoming impatient, and then remember that I'm in Heaven. The impatience never comes.

I notice a sign hanging from one of the bars: "Sorry, we are closed. Gone fishing. For assistance, please pick up the phone on the wall. Pete."

Closed? Well, I suppose even Saint Peter needs some time off.

Still trying to get used to this new way of moving, I fly-scoot over to the wall, lifting the phone off its receiver. Am I supposed to press any buttons? A voice that sounds all too much like the computerized ones back on earth greets me.

“Welcome to Heaven. For English, press one. Para Español, marque numero dos.”

Are you kidding me? Are you sure this is Heaven? Because if I have to go through all of this, I must be in Hell! Yet, out of habit, I press the number one on the keypad.

The voice continues. “Please listen carefully as our options have changed.”

There are options? I thought this would be a guided tour with a definite destination. I didn’t know I’d be left to fend for myself.

And if the options have changed, does that mean the requirements for entry have changed? My heart beats faster. Oh! I didn’t know I’d still have a beating heart in Heaven.

“If you know your party's extension, enter it now.”

I'm not sure who I'm even supposed to be talking to. Saint Peter would be the obvious choice, but his sign made it clear that he was unavailable. Maybe I should just go directly to God. Surely, He'll know what to do. Eh, He's probably too busy to deal with my little problem.

“For Saint Peter, press or say ‘One.’ Well, that’s not really an option at the moment.

“To speak with any of the other disciples, press or say, ‘Two.’ If they’re anything like they were on earth, they’re probably out together on this fishing trip. So that’s out too.

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“For accounts payable, press or say ‘Three.’ For an update on your status, press or say, ‘Four.’ For technical support or help setting up your cloud player, press or say, ‘Five.’ To speak with an account specialist, press or say, ‘Six.’ To go back to the main menu, press or say, ‘Seven.’”

I am simply dumbfounded. I wasn’t prepared for this. And just like in my terrestrial home, there is no direct way to the Head Honcho.

Naturally.

Then I remember a trick I used all the time “back home.” I press 0.

Then press it again. And again. Three times, since that’s supposed to be a good, lucky number.

“I’m sorry, that is not a valid option.” Computer Intercessor repeats the options again. No Operator option. I guess there is no way to get around the system up here. Unsure of who I need to speak with or what I need to do next, I hold the phone like a dummy, waiting for the next voice prompt.

“I'm sorry, I didn't catch that. Let's try something different. Please enter your account number.”

I have an account number?

"I don't know." Then, out of habit, "Speak to a representative."

“Okay, speak to a representative. Before I transfer you, I'll need to know a little bit about why you're calling. I can understand complete sentences, so go ahead and tell me in a few words. For instance, you can say, ‘I need to update my list of sins,’ or ‘I'm having trouble with my connection to God.’ Go ahead and speak your reason for calling now.”

“I...uh...I..eh...uh,” Oh darn, the tripping over my words thing hasn't gone away here. I thought we were supposed to have perfect bodies. I look down at mine.

"Huh, not half bad."

“I didn't catch that. Did you say, "’I'm half bad’?” If yes, please press or say “One” for Purgatory, or “Two” to be directed to the hotline to Hell. If no, press three or say, “No.” "NO! NO! I'm not bad! I'm a good person. Really!" I frantically press three repeatedly. I've lived a good life as a good person who did good things, and one wrong voice prompt could send me to Hell?

11 “Sorry, my mistake. Let's try again. Tell me why you're calling.”

"Help, please. I just want to get into heaven."

“Okay, Billing. Is that right?”

I sigh. Communication is no better here than on earth.

Wait...Billing? What on earth--or should I say, what in Heaven--is Billing? Now I’m curious.

“Yes, that’s right. Please transfer me to Billing.”

“Okay, transferring now. This call may be monitored or recorded for quality assurance and training purposes.”

Monitored and recorded? Uh-oh. Does that mean it can be used against me in the future, like in court?

What if God brings it up when I stand before him? Oh, I should have just hung up and waited for Saint Peter to get back? After all, I’m in no hurry. I do have eternity.

As I wait, I expect to hear the standard 32-bar smooth jazz loop play over and over as hold music, but instead, that 8-part “Holy, Holy, Holy” song fills my ears, and I find myself singing along and forgetting why I'm even on the phone.

Suddenly a voice interrupts the music. It's soft, like a summer quilt and quiet, like a stony brook in the deepest woods. I have to concentrate to hear it.

"Hello Beloved. How can I help you?" For some reason, I get a lump in my throat and tears fill my eyes.

"Is this...is this...God?" "It is the Holy Spirit. I heard your cry for help. I'm here."

I'm not sure how to proceed. I don't trust myself to speak and I'm afraid to say anything because His voice is so soothing, so full of love and concern and kindness. Even though He didn’t call me by name, it’s as if the word, Beloved is my name. I want to hear more.

Before I can think, I blurt out, “Is this the Billing department?”

Really? I have to spend eternity with my foot in my mouth? Then I hear a soft chuckle. A chuckle? Is the Holy Spirit laughing at me?

“Beloved.” There it is again. Everything bubbles up to the surface when He calls me that. No one has ever called me beloved.

“You have a zero balance.”

“Huh?” “You have a zero balance. Your debt has been paid in full.”

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Is this what everyone on earth was talking about? Do none of the good deeds I did matter? Is it really as simple as accepting his forgiveness? Did Jesus really give his life up so I could have mine?

Did his death erase my debt to sin? How could I have failed to recognize such a marvelous gift? How could I have lived such a selfish and tumultuous life when there was a better way?

Somehow, in the stillness, in the whispers, it becomes deeply personal. As if He can hear my thoughts, the Holy Spirit breaks through the quiet. "If you were the only one on earth, I would have done it just for you."

"I...I...wait..I thought…”

“Beloved.”

“Jesus.”

The phone goes silent, and the gates swing open. Jesus, my Savior, my Redeemer, my Beloved, stands on the other side holding out his nail-scarred hand to me. "Come," He says. "I will show you great and unsearchable things you do not know."

I try to move forward, but fall on my knees on the way. My body convulses as I weep rivers of tears.

They fall through the clouds as rain. All of my deeds, both good and bad pass before me in a nanosecond. Yet, none of it seems to matter. Here is my Savior, standing before me, offering forgiveness for the bad I've done and the good I failed to do. He embodies the acceptance I craved and the love I so desperately desired all of my earthly days. All I need to do is take His hand. It really is that simple.

As I rise from the ashes of my former self, my mind is now clear and unhindered by doubt, and it occurs to me that I could have bypassed all of those voice prompts and just called on the name of Jesus. I wish I'd known that on earth. Maybe my life would have been different. Maybe the lives of those I encountered would have been different. But it's never too late.

With unrestrained abandon I run to the open arms of my Savior, and He embraces me.

"Welcome home, Beloved."

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True Love

by Frances Gregory Pasch

What comes to mind when you think of Valentine’s Day? A dozen long stemmed red roses, wrapped in cellophane, tied with a satin bow? Chocolates in a red, heart-shaped box, trimmed with lace around the edges?

A beautiful valentine, expressing the choicest words in an extra special way? There are many different ways of showing love.

My husband, Jim, knows that I cherish carnations, so on Valentine’s Day he often buys me two dozen red and white ones. The sharp contrast of the colors always brightens my home. Jim’s thoughtfulness brightens my heart.

God wants us to enjoy gifts and expressions of love from those who care for us, but we must never put anything or anyone above Him. He wants to be the center of attraction in our lives.

Because of that, the most important thing to dwell on is His love for us— love that far surpasses tokens of human love.

Words of love and thanksgiving to Christ should be our first priority, not only on Valentine’s Day, but every day! Such a small gesture, considering the great price He paid for us.

Flowers and candy are perishable, but Christ’s death on the cross is a gift that lasts forever.

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Sweetheart Valentine’s Day Creative Inspiration In every issue of the Ruby for Women magazine, we search all over the blogosphere to find inspirational and creative ideas to share with our readers. We know that many of our readers love to cook and bake, especially for holidays or seasonal celebrations.

And many of our readers are artists and crafters, so we are always looking for beautiful, fun, easy, and inexpensive ideas to inspire you to create something for your home or family.

This month, as we celebrate Valentine’s Day, there are so many creative projects to choose from! Here are just a few of the beautiful, crafty DIY projects and recipes we found. Please be sure to visit the blogs / websites where the original tutorial or recipe can be found . . . . and be sure to tell them that Ruby sent you!

Pink Velvet Cupcakes in a Jar from HoosierHomemade.com Of course, as soon as I realized that Liz from HoosierHomemade is (obviously!) from Indiana, too, I knew that her amazing recipes would be, well, amazing! Everything on her blog is beautiful, including her recipes, decorating and DIY ideas, and especially her gorgeous cupcakes.

These pretty Valentine’s Day cupcakes are not only easy to make and oh-so-pretty, but they are super simple to give as a gift or to transport to your next family gathering our church carry in supper.

You can find the recipe at HoosierHomemade, and while you are there, check out all the other creative inspiration just waiting for you.

Vintage Button Snowflakes from Crafts for All Seasons By early February, we are all anticipating spring! But the truth is that we still have several more weeks of winter, and we might as well celebrate SNOW . . . so when we discovered these adorable button snowflakes, it just seemed like the perfect project for a cozy Crafternoon.

So simple, but so charming, these snowflakes are made from Popsicle sticks and vintage buttons. Just add glue! Complete instructions for the button snowflakes, along with lots of other creative projects, can be found at Crafts for All Seasons.

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Valentine Red Velvet Brownies from The Best Desert Recipes What would Valentine’s Day be without something RED??? Red Velvet Cake is one of our favorites, made from scratch (which takes kind of a long time, at least for the frosting recipe we’ve been using for a long time!), so it just makes sense that there are all kinds of variations on this tried-and-true favorite.

These Valentine Red Velvet Brownies are so festive, and they look scrumptious. Between the brownie layer on the bottom, the creamy frosting in the middle, and the red candies on the top, you will have the perfect Valentine’s Day desert. Check out the recipe at The Best Desert Recipes.

Valentine Heart Button Wreath from Holiday Crafts and Creations I suppose because I have jars and jars of vintage buttons (and lots of new buttons, too!) all of these crafts with buttons just seem to call my name. But isn’t this one cute?

Another super-duper simple and inexpensive craft to do in an afternoon, with the kids or grandkids, this heart-shaped wreath is made from a cardboard heart shape covered with felt, and then lots of buttons in shades of red, pink, white, and purple glued all over.

Find the complete tutorial on the Holiday Crafts and Creations website.

Strawberry White Chocolate Cake Mix Cookies from Mom on Time Out The kids will love these cookies! And they are made using a cake mix, so you all can make up a batch together.

Wouldn’t it be fun to send a pretty box filled with these cookies for a school Valentine’s Day party? Or take them to your next Bible study or church carry-in? The recipe can be found on the Mom on Time Out blog.

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Check the Temperature Puzzle

by Beth Brubaker

Answer Key on page 49.

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Picking up God’s Pennies

by Sharon L. Patterson

The sun picks up a glow on the pavement. I stoop down to pick up the cause of the glow that secured my attention…a penny. “It is a bit battered,” I think to myself. But then, so many of them I have picked up seem to have a nick here or there.

I chuckle to myself as I remember the question my son asked when he was younger, “Mom, why on earth would you bother to pick up a penny?

Now, if it was a dollar bill that would be worth it, but a penny?”

Of course, I seized that moment oh so long ago to tell him that there would be no dollar bill if there were no penny. That is where every dollar’s worth begins. We cannot count without beginning with one.

I have picked them up all my life that spans some six decades now. A better reason than my explanation to my young son prompts my obsession with lost pennies.

One day, a few years ago, God spoke to my heart as I was stooping to pick up a lost penny.

He said, “Sharon, you pick up my pennies.”

As a mother, I experienced times when one of my sons who had some physical and emotional developmental problems due to a wrong diagnosis at twenty months old was thought to have less potential.

He often fell into the cracks of available programs because he did not meet the right criterion. He has taught me new depths about worth as God sees it versus how mankind sees it.

As a minister to women, I have been so privileged to participate with the Lord in showing those He points out to me what He thinks about them.

It contrasts greatly with what they have either felt about themselves or had mirrored to them by treatment from others.

Some of the women I have prayed with first thought their nicks and scars rendered them valueless. When the presence of a loving Heavenly Father shines on them, the glow of their worth emerges every time.

I smiled for I knew what He meant. It has been my life’s calling to see the worth that is in a soul created by God.

As a lost penny that God picked up many years ago through the loving hands of caring Christian mentors and friends, I have understood His value of me.

As a teacher, I could see the great potential in students others would have regarded as insignificant because they had nicks in their behavior or personality.

It was the love He had placed in their hearts that stooped to pick me up, count me worthy, and patiently wait for me to see it, too.

When I looked further than the scarred surface, I often found precious things that were not visible at the surface level.

So, my obsession to pick up God’s pennies goes on. I will remember every time I stoop to pick up 19 a lost one on the ground.

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Another Place

by Rhea B. Riddle

Light, space, zest—that’s God! So, with him on my side I’m fearless, afraid of no one and nothing.

Psalms 27:1(The Message Version) The ominous clouds crawled and clawed their way across the rain swollen sky. Each had a name they bore with a frown and a grimace reflected in their metallic darkness. The leaders were Terror, Angst, and Mercilessness; they were taking their time, staking a claim, and overwhelming the earth as they strafed the valley below.

Just over the horizon, there was a streak of light not yet enveloped by the looming storm, it too had a name: “Word of God!" to some It appeared weak, and timid, and seemed to have no will to claim the sky, but to others it shone as "Promise," and they waited for deliverance. The storm raged on.

I, the watcher sit in a protected place, a place of study, thought and excitement. A place of waiting, and so, I wait...pinned by my held breath and expectations. My emotions; reined tight, my desires are chained, I have no fear. I unfetter my faith, and knowledge rides on the wind as I breathed deeply of this uncreated time and wonder when God will awaken me from this unique dream.

Even when the way goes through Death Valley, I’m not afraid When you walk at my side.

Your trusty shepherd’s crook Makes me feel secure. Psalm 23:4

(MSG)

From this place where I watch the heavens; time has no meaning. Even here my mind and heart are open and I crave a word, "the Word." It will carry me over, past, or through the storm, destroying personal clouds that I call by their given names.

One day he and his disciples got in a boat.

“Let’s cross the lake,” he said. And off they went. It was smooth sailing, and he fell asleep. A terrific storm came up suddenly on the lake. Water poured in, and they were about to capsize. They woke Jesus: “Master, Master, we’re going to drown!”

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Getting to his feet, he told the wind, “Silence!” and the waves, “Quiet down!” They did it. The lake became smooth as glass.

Then he said to his disciples, “Why can’t you trust me?” They were in absolute awe, staggered and stammering, “Who is this, anyway? He calls out to the winds and sea, and they do what he tells them!” Luke 8:23-25 (MSG) I experience a sense of calmness, and as I look, I see the gloomy clouds are still present, but there has been a change in their names. Now they answer to Overrated, Powerless, and Temporary. Their sting is gone; they still appear on the scene, but are quickly fading. I glance toward the growing light, although it is brighter than the sun I cannot turn away. I am drawn; I plead, "Cover me!"

For I am God, your very own God, who stirs up the sea and whips up the waves, named God-of-theAngel-Armies. I teach you how to talk, word by word, and personally watch over you, even while I’m unfurling the skies, setting earth on solid foundations, and greeting Zion: ‘Welcome, my people!’

Isaiah 51: 16 (MSG) I become aware, and began to stir; the "place" becomes my sofa where I take my afternoon naps.

Again I beg, "Oh please, don't let me lose it."

"Lose what?" He questions…

"Time; the time I am drawn to Your word. Time, time when I experience You in ordinary and in extraordinary places!"

"Well, that would be up to you, I will meet you anywhere, in storms or when calm, but I exist in timelessness, you live in time. I manage your eternity; you are free to manage your “time.”

I am wide awake! I have much to ponder...

His powerful Word is sharp as a surgeon’s scalpel, cutting through everything, whether doubt or defense, laying us open to listen and obey. Nothing and no one is impervious to God’s Word. We can’t get away from it—no matter what. Hebrews 4: 12 (MSG)

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Kids’ Korner

by Carol Peterson

Thank You, Lord, for Everything

By P.J. Lyons Illustrated by Tim Warnes Book Review by Carol Peterson A great way to begin the New Year is with gratitude. Thank You, Lord, For Everything, written by P.J. Lyons; illustrated by Tim Warnes (2015, Zonderkidz) will help with that.

This board book is perfect for very young children. The simple rhymed verses and colorful illustrations of a baby bear and his family take the child through a day. Each activity, from springing out of bed to picnicking in the forest share ways a child can be thankful, and remind them to Whom they should be thankful.

Excerpt from Thank You, Lord, for Everything: Love surrounds you, beauty, too.

Notice how God blesses you!

Clap your hands, shout and sing: Thank you, Lord, for everything.

A comfortable and relaxing rhyme tells the story of God’s great blessings in this padded cover board book. P.J. Lyons’ engaging text and Tim Warnes’ playful illustrations remind readers how much they have to be thankful for.

A lovely Christian reminder.

Thank You, Lord, for Everything is now available from Ruby’s Reading Corner.

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Things that Really Matter

by Kathleen Katt Luce There are some fun women I've known for years. Every few months we get together for lunch or dinner, often in one of our homes. Yesterday it was my turn.

My husband had a meeting so I'd have the house to myself. The girls were to arrive at 6:30 for a dinner of turkey chili and for my vegan friends, a hearty mushroom soup.

It was 5:50 PM when I picked up the large pot of chili and tripped! Chili splashed twenty feet across the room splattering our light-colored carpet, the upholstered furniture and even high up on three walls. Unbelievable!

My husband was still home and suggested we call someone to steam clean it all--tomorrow.

Tomorrow? The tomatoes and chili powder were beginning to stain the carpet now!

I immediately grabbed two buckets--one for dumping what I could scrape up from the carpet and sofa.

The other I filled with water and a little ammonia. Two friends arrived early and immediately began helping. Incredibly, by 6:30 most of the room was somewhat presentable. I quickly added a can of chili beans to what was left. Fortunately there was plenty of mushroom soup.

What I noticed about myself was my calmness. I kept thinking, "It's just carpet. It's just furniture. We can always repaint the walls. It could be worse. I'm not injured." Incredibly, I was able to smile and laugh and thank God. I had peace the entire evening.

One gal has a husband who is gravely ill. Although this group does not usually pray before we eat, I went ahead and prayed, thanking God for our meal and for our friendship. I also prayed for our friend's husband and for her strength in caring for him. She was appreciative.

When everyone left I went back to cleaning. Where were the stains? There were none! This morning we discovered more beans on the carpet and two sofa pillows with large splotches of dried chili. I spot-cleaned them and this evening they had dried without a stain! How extraordinary! Thank You Lord!

Why did this happen? Was this a test? Did I pass? I do know God filled me with a supernatural kind of peace and joy. If it was a test, then I think I passed--because God helped me.

For I am convinced that neither death nor life, neither angels nor demons, neither the present nor the future, nor any powers, neither height nor depth, nor anything else in all creation, will be able to separate us from the love of God that is in Christ Jesus our Lord. Romans 8:38-39

. . . nothing will be able to separate us from the love of God that is in Christ Jesus our Lord.

Romans 8:39

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The Snowflake

by Jewell Utt I look upon the falling snow Each tender flake unique Together they can make a scene As bright as winter's peak Alone they simply melt away No fluff they leave behind To gather up a snowball fight Or make a snowman shine Each reminds me of our lives Unique in every way We carry hopes and dreams around Throughout our daily fray We marvel at the universe Awesome in design Contrasted to the fragile flake Amazed we must resign God made us for community The snowflake is our guide Alone we cannot give as much As teamwork will incline Many hands make work a breeze For gifts in team adorn Can impact generations for The Lord of hosts is born 25

Winter Trees

by Rejetta Morse The trees stand in the snow with no distress And while they rest, their strong faith never fails.

They keep their bare arms lifted high in praise Although the strong winds blow –their faith prevails!

They suffer cuts from carpenters for wood And burning pains from blazing fires a-roar And chipping pains from chisel, saw, and axe, And evergreens are cut for their décor.

Sometimes the weight gets heavy and they feel A hopelessness that rips their hearts with tears.

The flurries give them much more weight to bear In their deep suffering - faith reappears!

A man named Jesus came from Galilee.

He bled and suffered on a tree and died.

He bore your burdens on the rugged cross At Calvary – where he was glorified.

Matthew 11:28 Come to me, all you who are weary and burdened, and I will give you rest.

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Stepping into the Unknown

by Lynn Mosher A new Year. A new beginning. A new unknown territory.

A scary journey at times. I wonder...will I have the courage to step out into the unknown as Abraham did...

“He went without knowing where he was going.”

(Heb. 11:8b NLT) As I stand here with my toes on the threshold of the New Year, positioned on the border of unknown territory, I know that God knows where He and I are going.

Do I then go forward in faith’s victory to possess this New Year...or remain frozen in victim’s defeat, allowing it to possess me? A myriad of challenges will confront me each day. How will I handle them?

As Jesus once said to a man whom He was about to heal, “Step forward.” (Mark 3:3b NKJV) Will I step forward believing and trusting for the answer to that which I need, remembering what God has done for me in the past? Or will I hang back in the shadows afraid to move ahead, forgetting God’s providence?

Just as God told Isaiah, He says you and me, “Remember the things I have done in the past. For I alone am God! I am God, and there is none like Me.” (Is. 46:9 NLT) God will again make His provisions available in the New Year for it is in His plan for each of us. He says, “I have it all planned out—plans to take care of you, not abandon you, plans to give you the future you hope for.” (Jer. 29:11 Msg) However, His plan will only unfold daily, as we trust Him for each step. As God led every step of the Israelites’ journey to the new land, so He still leads us today. When we take those wobbly steps into the unknown, what will this new land hold for us?

We may encounter... * joys unspeakable * smooth paths of guidance * lush pastures of provision * varied hilltop experiences * spiritual blessings in abundance

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However, we may also encounter... * desert dryness * valley mists and fogs * wilderness wanderings * gremlins hiding behind bushes * paths with potholes and pitfalls * steep uphill climbs and dangerous downhill slides Challenges will meet us at every turn; some easier to handle than others. But God will work in all the ups and downs of those trials, heartaches, and blessings.

He does this for us because of His compassion and mercy. Jeremiah tells us, “Yet there is one ray of hope: His compassion never ends. It is only the Lord’s mercies that have kept us from complete destruction.

Great is His faithfulness; His loving-kindness begins afresh each day.”

(Lam. 3:21-23 TLB) Be assured that no matter what happens on your journey this year, He is the source of your fresh mercies every morning. He will never fail you. He will walk by your side along each rocky bend in the road and carry you through each heartache and loss.

God will see you through to the end of next year. Will you live as Abraham...“By faith he dwelt in the land of promise as in a foreign country.” (Heb. 11:9a NKJV) We live our outward days on earth as in a foreign country, for we abide in God’s Kingdom of promise within us. Therefore, each day brings a new threshold into eternity. How can we not welcome it with willing feet and open arms?

I am ready to step into the journey of each new day of this year, greeting each one in faith and with God’s mercy.

How about you? Are you ready? How will you greet the challenges of your new journey?

I’m finishing this post with a different twist...a quote from Dr. Seuss, with one word change...

“You’re off to Great Places!

Today is your day!

Your [journey] is waiting, So...get on your way!”

May each day, though filled with a trial, bring you a smile and a blessing!

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New from author Jean Ann Williams

Just Claire ClaireLee’s life changes when she must take charge of her siblings and depressed mother, and she finds relief in the lies she tells herself and others.

Frightened by the changes in Mama, ClaireLee just knows she’ll catch her illness like a cold or flu that hangs on through winter. Deciding she needs to reinvent herself, she sets out to impress a group of popular girls.

At the slip of an untruth, she deceives her way into the Lavender Girls Club. Her best friend Belinda will not be caught with the likes of such shallow puddles.

ClaireLee drifts further from honesty, her friend, and a broken mother’s love, until one very public night.

The spotlight is on her, and she finds her courage and faces the truth and then she saves a life.

Just Claire is now available from Amazon.

Also by Jean Ann Williams

God’s Mercies after Suicide: Blessings Woven through a Mother’s Heart Jean Ann Williams is a writer and the author of God's Mercies after Suicide: Blessings Woven through a Mother's Heart, a devotional book written following the death of her son, Joshua. You can connect with Jean Ann on one of her blogs: http://joshuamom.blogspot.com/ http://jeanannwilliams.blogspot.com/

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Your Little is More than Enough

by Ifeoma Samuel My Sunday school kids were preparing for a presentation at church. My plate was full, I wasn’t making Sunday services. My studies had taken another turn more work load more deadlines more demands apart from family obligations.

The little in your hand is great in the sight of God

There were lots of ideas rolling in but implementing is another kettle of fish.

God did put it there in the first place. He knows what you need and has placed them in you.

“Lord, I feel I am not doing enough. I wish I had time to do more for my kids”.

You don’t lack anything because he says we are complete in Him.

My strained time was taking a toll on parents support, too. I was inadequately prepared for the presentation.

As long as we dwell in His presence, He fills up our emptiness, He saturates our void.

To my surprise, the kids don’t see it this way. They were working hard on their memory verses and somehow my absence initiated a drive to impress me with their recitations when they get the chance.

That little is important to His Kingdom Your little is more than enough

All we need to do is to embed ourselves in Him so He can use us the way He wants for His glory.

We feel inadequate when we want to achieve all without Him.

I am proud of my Sunday school kids. Not only did they do well, they taught me a lesson.

He magnifies the little in our hand when we open up our hearts and surrender it to Him.

Many times we wonder if what we have is good enough or if we can actually measure up. The feeling of being inadequate may deter us for actually pursuing our God- given dreams.

You don’t have to wait to become so great before you start what He has set for you.

God-given dreams?

Do you give in to thoughts like you are not gifted enough for His use? My kids showed me how God uses even our inadequacies so we can fully rely on Him.

God can use that little in our hand to save a city.

Just like on the day David trusted God as he held those little stones. We too can trust God as we hold our gifts in our hands ready to put them to good use.

God can use the gifts he has given us to do wonders.

You don’t have to wait to be some great speaker or mentor or teacher or so and so person to be fit for the Master’s use.

Don’t say you have nothing

Consider our body parts: not all can be the eyes or the nose or the mouth or even our internal organs.

When one part of your body doesn’t function well, our whole body feels it too. I Corinthians 12:17

Don’t say what you have ain’t useful

Now can you see that the little in your hand is useful, valuable and great priced?

Finally, know that Your Little is More Than 30 Enough

Don’t say who will notice

Just show up as David did, Be diligent, Do your little with joy.

Because I Like You! Puzzle

by Beth Brubaker Find the hidden words within the grid of letters

Answer key on page 50

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Bring a Cowboy Home

by Gloria Doty Relationships are never easy, especially when everything seems to be conspiring against you.

Louisa Crowder is a successful businesswoman from Chicago. When she meets Cal Frasier, a handsome rancher from Magnolia, Texas, it feels like someone’s lit a match on a forest fire. The only problem: Everything seems to stand in their way.

With the opinions and objections of their adult children, their totally different lifestyles, secrets from their pasts, and their completely opposite views of their faith in Jesus Christ, can Louisa and Cal fan the flames and find happiness, or are their obstacles too insurmountable to overcome?

Gloria Doty is a published Christian writer, author, speaker and blogger. She has 5 children, 13 grandchildren and 7 greatgrandchildren. She currently lives in Fort Wayne, Indiana with her adult autistic daughter, 1 dog and 2 cats. She has had various occupations and experiences in her lifetime. She writes about the lessons learned at: www.gettingitrightoccasionally.blogspot.com and www.writingbygloria.com Her recently published book, Not Different Enough, tells the everyday experiences of life with her daughter, Kalisha, and their 30-year journey with autism, Asperger’s and intellectual disabilities.

She has published a book of devotions with her sister, Jeanette Dall, titled: A Bouquet of Devotions.

She has been published in various magazines and is a regular contributor to the quarterly devotional Hope-Full Living, as well as a member of the Ruby Blogger Team and a regular contributor to the Ruby for Women magazine.

Gloria‘s latest book is the first in a series of three contemporary Christian romance novels. Bring a Cowboy Home is now available from Ruby’s Reading Corner.

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Belonging…

by Sharon L. Patterson While studying, my train of thought was interrupted as I heard God’s directive to search the meaning of a particular word: “I want you to understand much deeper than you do right now What it means to ‘belong’ and just exactly how I made it possible over two thousand years ago With the display of love my Son died to show.

He bought you back from the world’s dark way.

You see, I bought you with a price you could never pay So that by faith, through grace you forever belong To my kingdom where my righteousness trumps all wrong.”

Although I knew the truth of what He was revealing to me, As my study ended, I grasped it to a much fuller degree.

From Webster’s and Oxford’s dictionaries, I searched the meaning: Through the layers of definitions my spirit was gleaning: To belong is “to fit in, be suited to, to be rightly placed in a specific position…”

I read on like a firebrand on a top priority mission…

“To have a home, acceptance and affiliation; Closeness, rapport, fellowship and integration.

To be in the hands of, to be a member of a particular group, Rightly assigned, in relation to a member, or simply said, in the loop!”

I finished the study with new insights and spiritual keys That literally brought me to my knees In praise Of the phrase Found in 1 John 4:4: “But you belong to God, dear children…forevermore!”

I am in a relation to the First, the Foremost member, May I never forget and always remember The price of admission to belong to God’s family That, Jesus, my Father’s Son purchased for me.

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Teacher Power

by Kathleen Katt Luce When I was 15, our high school had over a dozen YMCA clubs on campus; I belonged to one. Whether we were male or female, we still belonged to the Young Men's Christian Association. I used to wonder about that, but apparently no one else did. I also used to wonder why there was nothing Christian about our Christian club.

My older sister had challenged me to begin reading the Bible and I did. I became intrigued with Matthew 24—about the last days. Wow! Why had I never heard about this before?

As a teenager, I was shy and lacked confidence. Yet I suddenly felt compelled to bring my Bible to the next YMCA meeting. I bravely raised my hand and proposed that since we are a Christian club, it might be good to do something Christian once in a while. I explained that I’d read something interesting in the Bible and wanted to share it.

I began reading aloud at Matthew 24:5-14. “Nation will rise against nation.” I paused here and said that we have an abundance of wars in the world right now!

“There will be famines and earthquakes.” I paused again and reminded them of the terrible famines in Africa and the increasing earthquakes that are stronger now than any in recorded history. I continued this way until the end of the passage. While speaking, I noticed the room become quiet. The girls were listening.

When the meeting ended, our club adviser Mrs. Smith took me aside. She told me something that was instrumental in shaping my life: “I see leadership qualities in you, Kathleen. Tonight when you spoke, you had everyone’s attention. I can see you someday becoming a public servant or a good teacher.”

I don’t remember what I said in response, but I’m sure it was weak.

Truthfully, I was astounded! She never knew how much her words impacted me—and I began shedding my shyness that night. To this day, I deeply regret that I never told her.

Therefore encourage one another and build each other up…

1Thessalonians 5:11 For many will come in my name, claiming, ‘I am the Messiah,’ and will deceive many. You will hear of wars and rumors of wars, but see to it that you are not alarmed. Such things must happen, but the end is still to come. Nation will rise against nation, and kingdom against kingdom. There will be famines and earthquakes in various places.

All these are the beginning of birth pains. “Then you will be handed over to be persecuted and put to death, and you will be hated by all nations because of me. At that time many will turn away from the faith and will betray and hate each other, and many false prophets will appear and deceive many people.

Matthew 24:5-11

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The Infinite Air

by Fiona Kidman Book Review by Miriam Jacob Fiona Kidman’s enthralling novel delves into the life of the brave, beautiful and enigmatic Jean Batten, one of the world’s greatest aviators. Here is the incredible story of the rise and fall of the ‘Garbo of the Skies.’

It is a fascinating account of early aviation and of fame enshrouded in secrecy. An international icon in the 1930’s and the epitome of adventure, daring and exploration, Jean Batten made a number of heroic solo flights across the world.

In 1934, she broke Amy Johnson’s record of the flight time between England and Australia by six days. The next year, she became the first woman to make the return flight. In 1936, she made the first ever direct flight between England and New Zealand, followed by the fastest ever trans-Tasman flight.

It is ironic that the Second World War ended Jean’s daring flights. She suddenly disappeared to the Caribbean, only to die later in obscurity in Majorca, where she was buried in a pauper’s grave.

This is her winged story of flight The Infinite Air

by Fiona Kidman Gallic Books Aardvark Bureau ISBN 978-1-910709-08-5 © March 6, 2016 The Infinite Air by Fiona Kidman is now available from Ruby’s Reading Corner.

Miriam Jacob is a member of the Ruby Blogger Team as well as a regular contributor to the Ruby for Women magazine as a member of our Book Review Team.

She blogs at Miriam Jacob’s Portfolio as well as Authors for Christ where you can read her poetry as well as her other book reviews.

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NEW from author Aaron Field

Mitzy & the Trouble with Bubbles

A special gift for the readers of

Join the fun of Mitzy's first adventure! Mitzy and her little brother Mika learn that a few bubbles can go a long way.

Ruby for Women

$10 OFF your purchase of Mitzy & the Trouble with Bubbles Use discount code KK76B8SC when you order Mitzi & the Trouble with Bubbles https://www.createspace.com/6009964

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Im-possible or Him-possible?

by Cindy Evans With me, in my flesh, it's impossible in the natural, but with Him, in His power, it's Him-possible, supernatural!

With me, in my strength, it's only weak and broken, with Him, the Almighty, it's done if He's spoken!

With me, in my efforts, there's no guarantee, but with Him, it's promised and done perfectly!

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Little Girl Mended

by Niki Krauss No little girl should ever have to learn about sexual abuse at the hands of her father. But I did, and I survived. This is my story. Little Girl Mended is both a story of abuse and a story of redemption, spanning more than fifty years. From the loss of innocence at age seven, through ten-plus years of abuse, fortyfive years of silence, and finally—well into my fifties—coming to understand that healing is possible.

My walk through recovery coincided with a deepening of my relationship with Jesus Christ.

Through that relationship I came to experience the Father’s love—a love I couldn’t fully understand while viewing everything through the distorted lens of incest. In this first-person narrative, I examine painful memories and difficult emotions, allowing myself to feel for the first time in my life.

As I grapple with shattering hurt and long-buried pain, I come to realize there can be no healing without surrender. It’s not in my strength that I find healing, but in my complete surrender to Jesus Christ. The power found in the pages of Little Girl Mended is there for you, too—whatever the circumstances of your own life’s story. Come along and claim it.

Niki Krauss is a Yankee by birth, a Southerner by choice, and a joy-filled lover of Jesus by grace. After twenty-four years of moving around the country as the wife of a Marine Corps aviator, she and her husband of forty years have settled in Charleston, South Carolina.

Niki is the former assistant editor for the Marine Corps Gazette, the professional journal of the United States Marine Corps, where she wielded her red pen for fifteen years.

As a sexual abuse survivor herself, her most recent passion is leading faith-based support groups for women survivors of childhood sexual abuse. Connect with Niki at http://www.nikikrauss.com.

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Happily Never After Part One: Introduction

by Jonathan Lawrence Editor’s Note: This article is the first in a series written by a husband and father, who has had the courage to share his true story of marital struggles. Our prayer is that his words and his story will be a blessing to our readers, and be a reminder that God can take all of our broken pieces and bring hope, restoration, and redemption if we trust Him with our hearts.

I grew up watching Disney movies. I held the vision in my head of the perfect happy ending to my own story – grow up, meet the perfect girl/princess, fall in love, get married, start a family, and of course live happily ever after.

Oh yes, I can’t leave out the Christian side to my story since I grew up in the church. I was a Sunday morning, Sunday evening, Wednesday AWANA church kid in the Evangelical Free denomination. So if I were to add something else to my ‘happily ever after’ dream, I’d need to include an unfaltering commitment to Jesus in everything I ever did. …and now for a dash of sinfulness and a bit of reality…

That event began to lay the foundation for my perception of relationships. Even though my parents loved each other and modeled a supportive marriage, my first relationship twisted and warped the lens through which I not only viewed the world, but my own value as a person as well.

Over the next three years, I experienced several more monumental moments of betrayal, tragedy, and heartbreak, some of which included the permanent and life-long debilitating mental breakdown of my dad, a long-term Christian girlfriend (with whom I did not sleep with) cheating on me, the death of my mom, as well as getting kicked out of church.

Let’s fast-forward 12 long years from the time of my birth until I crossed the threshold of adolescence. It was sometime in early January 1987, just a few months before my 13th birthday. That was when I met “V.”

Oh wait, I can’t forget to mention the overwhelming feelings of disconnect, loss, and abandonment that became more present as an adopted child who’s adopted parents were no longer around. I was a 16 year old boy, hurting, lost, and desperate to fill the empty achiness inside through sexual promiscuity, and other less-than-honorable activities.

“V” was a girl who lived in a group home. “V” was a girl who showed interest in me. That’s about all an adolescent boy needs to fall in “love.” I was smitten with raging hormones that convinced me I was truly and without question, in love. “V” had seen quite a bit of things I hadn’t in my sheltered life.

I changed schools after all I’d experienced. I was hoping to get a new start. At my new school (a notable school for the performing arts), I not only found a place of belonging amongst the artsy types, I also met my wife.

Even though I expressed to “V” that I wanted to save myself for marriage, she persisted and persuaded me to eventually give up my virginity. I justified my actions by convincing myself that we would stay together and get married.

She and I hit it off from the moment we first met. We became instant best friends and were inseparable. I couldn’t imagine living my life without her. Within one year of meeting her, we were engaged. She was 16, and I was 17.

Less than one full week after I crossed the point of no return, I actually caught “V” in the act with another boy from our school. I was completely crushed. The word, ‘devastation’ merely scratches the surface of a complex whirlpool of emotions.

It sounds lovely, doesn’t it? This could almost be the ending to a Disney-esque ‘happily ever after.’ Boy was sad. Boy meets girl. Girl makes him happy. Boy asks girl to marry him. She says ‘yes.’ They live39 happily ever after.

Let’s remember for a moment the sobering reality of all I’d been through prior to meeting my wife. There were too many wounds, scars, issues, and baggage for me to step into the role of husband and actually function the way God designed a husband to function.

First and foremost, God designed a husband and wife to no longer function as two separate individuals, but rather to become “one” (Gen 2:24, Mk 10:8). This oneness not only manifests itself through the act of physical intimacy, but also through the unity of heart, mind, and purpose.

Furthermore, a husband carries an incredible responsibility to give up his own life for his wife, “just as Christ loved the church and gave himself up for her” (Eph 5:25).

I wasn’t in any condition to fully love, commit to, protect, or to sacrificially give up my own needs, wants, or desires for those of my wife. I also wasn’t in any position to objectively analyze the situation and recommend therapy to myself before tying the knot.

Once we were married, the shadows and pain from my past quickly surfaced. Being married didn’t fill the deep-rooted emptiness. My feelings of self-loathing became overwhelming at times.

What I saw before me couldn’t be argued with. I saw Jesus looking me in the eyes, and His voice said, “My grace is sufficient for you, for my power is made perfect in weakness” (2 Cor 12:9).

There were some things that helped to mask, but certainly not to fill or heal the pain. Some of those things were situational, and some of them were intentional: changing jobs, starting college, getting pregnant with our first child, moving to Los Angeles to pursue unattainable dreams, and even extramarital affairs.

Yes, I have been unfaithful to my wife several times in our marriage.

That’s not even the worst part. The worst part is that I was so consumed with inner rage and self-hatred that I wanted to destroy my marriage. Did I actually love my wife? Yes. I loved her deeply, but I couldn’t (or didn’t know how) to face my past, fully surrender to the healing power of God’s grace, or to even break the cycle of temporary masks to my pain.

This all came to a breaking point in the late spring of 2014. I filed for divorce. If I couldn’t get my wife to hate me like I hated myself, I was going to set her free. I requested that we go together to see her counselor. It was there in that semi-trendy, semiserene, semi-sterile office that I confessed to my most recent affairs. At that point, she only knew of one.

I wanted and expected a backlash of epic proportions. I was ready for all of the insults, namecalling, and possibly emotional violence that you see every day on any number of “reality TV” or trash TV talk shows.

What I saw before me couldn’t be argued with. I saw Jesus looking me in the eyes, and His voice said, “My grace is sufficient for you, for my power is made perfect in weakness” (2 Cor 12:9).

No, I didn’t literally see Jesus sitting in the place of my wife. But the grace and forgiveness she gave to me was because of Him. His power was made perfect in the weakness of my wife. I delivered a potentially fatal blow to the love of my life. I betrayed you. I cheated on you. Even still, she was able to offer forgiveness. She told me that she was willing to do whatever it would take to fix things.

There are many details I’ve left out – so much of the healing process, but I want to share this point with you: There is hope for you. I also wanted to express that while I didn’t personally experience a fairy tale ending with happiness, no marriage is blissful.

Happily Ever After is truly an impossibility. There will be good times as well as seasons that are challenging. In spite of that, we are called to experience joy in all situations (Jas 1:2-4). There is hope for your marriage. Our God is a God of grace, healing, and restoration.

40 You can follow our journey here: http://forgivencheater.blogspot.com/

Snow out of Season

by Christy Brunke Book Review by Carol Peterson Snow out of Season by Christy Brunke (2015 Mountain View Books) poses the question: what would the world be like if a person had never been born? This story shares the lives of two pregnant women and explores their circumstances, following their decision-making process of whether or not to terminate their pregnancies.

The characters of the two women in the book, Shannon and Leslie are well developed. We get to understand their feelings, desires and pain which helps the reader appreciate their struggle with the decision they have to make. Shannon, a young mother still suffering the death of an infant daughter, discovers she is pregnant again with a Down’s syndrome baby. Leslie, a high school senior struggles as her dream of becoming a professional ballerina begins to materialize just as she learns she faces being a teen mother alone.

This Christian book explores the abortion issue without being preachy. While the central crisis in each woman’s life is the decision of whether or not to abort a child, the book’s theme is how each person’s life affects other people’s lives in ways we might not expect.

The writing of this novel is beautiful and expressive. It is definitely not a “light read,” but is well worth the time spent in the reading. It would make a great selection for a book club for the thoughts and conversation the story would encourage.

Carol Peterson, Author My mission as a writer is to educate, entertain and inspire–children, their teachers and parents, other writers, and readers of all genres. As a children’s writer I try to “Make Learning Fun” by helping busy teachers address curriculum accountability standards, and encouraging other writers to do the same.

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

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Signs of Affection Puzzle

by Beth Brubaker

Answer Key on page 51.

Visit Mary Dolan Flaherty at SonRise Insights where you can read more of her inspirational and humorous posts.

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The Word for the Year, Part 2: The Gatekeeper’s Key

by Kathryn Ross The gates of 2016 have swung open and we are moving swiftly forward into the fray of all its promise and potential—for both good and evil. If you remember from last month, I left my reading audience with a cliffhanger after summarizing the past few years of adopting “words” as goals to achieve or challenges to conquer.

My Word for 2015 had been Unbridled Joy. But after a very vexing year of work, health, and wealth related difficulties, deep inside, I felt very little Joy. Let alone Unbridled Joy. In fact, I fought fear, anxiety, confusion, indecision, despair, and failure.

But, on the day after Christmas, I read a line in a book titled Jesus: Man of Joy, by Sherwood E. Wirt, which presented an astounding perspective that ignited my understanding with fresh insight. First, a couple of verses that have always been familiar to me:

The book of Job tells us that when the creation took place/shape, the morning stars sang together and "all the sons of God shouted for joy" (Job 38:7) . . .

So God . . . brought creation into existence and continues to sustain it. He did all this for His own pleasure, because He desired to do it. Not for power, not for glory, but for joy.

Jesus: Man of Joy, by Sherwood E. Wirt, pages 24-25 In this light, I saw something that completely transformed my thinking and affirmed how I'd spent the last twelve months. In truth, 2015 was fraught with much conflict, unrest, anxiety, heavy heart, and struggle, with few gains in comparison to expectations. The field of my hopes and dreams seemed to be blocked by a looming gate—closed.

How I wish I had the key!

The heavens declare the glory of God, and the firmament shows His handiwork.

Psalm 19:1 Oh, Lord . . . thou hast created all things and for Thy pleasure they were created.

Revelation 4 Then, the author's commentary, setting these Scriptures into relation one to another. And, to my searching heart: . . . deep within the heart of God is a joy expressing itself in His mighty acts of creation.

We humble mortals, when we are in a creative mood, easily recognize the presence of joy that comes along with our own creativity. Not for nothing did God make us in His image and likeness!

This resulted in an overriding sense of melancholy, often guilt, and a temptation on occasion to despair.

It's a problem many creatives have.

Augustine writes in his Confessions that in his search for God he went to the "crawling things" of the sea and asked them to tell something about God. In response they all cried out with a loud voice, "He made us!"

And, that's the point. I am a CREATIVE. My brooding melancholy, in its season, is quite a good friend to me when I go into my creative den. Deeper wells are dug and better work is accomplished43 for it being there.

To that end, in doing a bit of inventory, I realized that I'd spent 2015 in a frenzy of creativity including the launching of a new website, publishing of a picture book and audio book, marketing of same and beginning the work on the second in that book series, starting another book series, activity within a writer’s critique group and mentoring other writers, learning how to and producing monthly podcasts, and staying active with my handcrafted mixed media arts.

I had believed myself to have failed miserably walking out JOY last year, let alone Unbridled Joy. Thankfully, I have been redeemed in my way of thinking, cleansed by God's Word and Mr. Wirt's insightful commentary.

Yes—it was a very creative year. In fact, you might say it was a year of UNBRIDLED creativity.

Creativity unleashed!

The answer came swiftly—if not unexpectedly: GO. Go Forth!

Even so, all creative endeavors come with much work and stress and the paradox of being both exhilarating and frightening at the same time. Crisis and chaos come with creative territories. And so does joy!

Joy is one with the creative process. God's Word tells us that it is. He defines it to be so as He models it in Scripture, consistently taking great pleasure in His own creative process.

How I choose to see this past year's accomplishments in relation to this truth, and my goal to walk in Unbridled Joy, is key: 

The FACT of accomplished creative endeavors versus the FEELING of conflict, chaos, and melancholy with anxiety



Creativity is stressful. Creativity is joyful.



Creativity comes with crisis. Creativity comes with pleasure.



Unbridled Joy equals Unleashed Creativity.

It is much like the JOY set before Jesus. The Creator of the universe endured the crisis and chaos of the cross in the creative act of salvation— securing our New Life in Christ.

The creative act of salvation was Jesus' joy and pleasure to provide! A creative act that came with overwhelming crisis and chaos.

I did, indeed, walk through 2015 with Unbridled Joy. After a flood of grateful tears and a literal jumping for joy, I just had to ask: "So, Lord, what's my word for 2016?"

Once again, I was tempted to question with unbelief. Go? Forward? But it seems there are always so many closed gates blocking my way. And I haven’t got the key to open them so I can go forth.

It is a daunting invitation to “go”. Shrinking back is much safer.

But, a verse from Isaiah gives me God’s grace to be going on with: You shall go out with joy and be led forth with peace. The mountains and the hills will break forth before you. They’ll be shouts of joy and all the trees of the field will clap their hands.

There are Fields of Dreams we all have for our new year. I’ve been meditating on my desire to sojourn there, finally holding within my grasp the many things I have been praying for. The locked gates are plentiful, though, and discouragement tempts me to shrink back.

But, there is no faith in that place.

We all come into a new year in this same way, and need to find gatekeepers to cheer us onto the field to which we’re called. I have many goals and challenges to face this year in my calling as a writer, weaving words with power to transform lives.

The Gatekeeper of my Life has charged me to “go” forth. Can I believe that mountains and hills of obstacles will be turned to praise? That opportunities will loom before me?

I believe the answer is YES! In all these things I can go forth in joy, with peace, as I trust in the Lord 44 and not shrink back.

Thinking on these things stirred creative juices into story as I considered how important gatekeepers are. Who they may be. How they can impact my life. Where they might be found. The words flowed freely and The Gatekeeper’s Key was poured out onto paper.

Then—recorded as my January/February podcast.

Here’s a snippet: One day, Weaver ventures into the marketplace where words and tapestries are traded. There, in the midst of so many tales, stands the Gatekeeper. The Master StoryWeaver himself!

But, do not go forward without petitioning the Gatekeeper of your year to open wide the opportunities that lay ahead. Unknown as they may be, the Gatekeeper has the key.

I invite you to visit me at The Writer’s Reverie blog and enjoy this dramatized short story, listening carefully to where you might fit into this story. I’m a writer. But, you can substitute our leading lady’s calling with any hope, dream, or ambition of your own.

Other eager weavers reach out to him in a flood of their tales. Some limp about, tripping over their words for all the loose threads and yarns, falling flat on the ground before him.

Others push and shove, assertively staking a claim by his side, petitioning for a key that they might know the opportunities on the other side of the gate.

But, the treasuries therein are not to be toyed with sloppily, and the gate’s portal not to be opened to mere aggressors. The Gatekeeper knows the worth of each tapestry laid before him and allows only those who would prove themselves worthy of the key to have access. By invitation . . .

When I am invited to GO, by the Gatekeeper of my life, I am invited to seize the treasuries and supplies in God’s house. He invites me to pass through the gate, crossing the threshold of my portal to potential—the field of my hopes and dreams . . . and God’s will for my life.

Are you seeking gatekeepers for your ambitions this year? Are you seeking The Gatekeeper for the Key to walk in what He has called you to?

The Gatekeeper’s Key metaphorically explores the dilemma we all face when challenged with the charge to "go" forward into a year filled with a balance of opportunity and the fearful unknown.

Then, once you’ve listened to the audio version, drop by Pageant Wagon Publishing and SUBSCRIBE to claim your FREE e-book version of the story, including in-depth study notes, challenge questions, and journal prompts.

My prayer for you is that you’ll take possession of the Gatekeeper’s key in your own life, and boldly cross the threshold of the portal to your potential this year—in joy, with peace, all good things, and 45 beauty.

T

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With Faith Like Hers Bible Study Series

by Carol Peterson

With Faith Like Hers Bible Study Series by Carol Peterson now available from Ruby’s Reading Corner.

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Visit Katherine’s Corner for monthly giveaways, weekly blog hops, recipes, and crafts

Anchor of Promise, a support and educational blog for parents with hurting and troubled teens.

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Check the Temperature Puzzle Answer Key

by Beth Brubaker

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Because I Like You! Puzzle Answer Key

by Beth Brubaker

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Signs of Affection Puzzle Answer Key

by Beth Brubaker

Visit Lynn Mosher on her blog to read her daily devotional and inspirational posts.

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Meet the Ruby for Women Writers Miriam Jacob is an author and poet in cyberspace, having published a series of E-Books at Lulu.com. She is a book reviewer at CHRISTIAN BOOK DISTRIBUTORS, BARNES AND NOBLE, GOOGLE BOOKS and HARPER COLLINS CHRISTIAN PUBLISHING (BookLook Bloggers). She writes reviews for Christian books, in the categories of literary fiction, non-fiction, poetry and politics.

Her articles and book reviews are published on her blog: “AUTHORS FOR CHRIST” Miriam is a member of the Ruby Book Review Team.

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, at http://lynnmosher.com

Katherine Corrigan, Recipes and Crafts Katherine is a blogger at Katherine’s Corner, an artist, designer, tea drinker and hug giver. She has been a contributor to Ruby for Women for five years. She is originally from England. But she has lived in the USA since 1975. She holds a rare dual citizenship with the UK and the USA and is a proud citizen of both. She greets each day with grace, dignity and gratitude. Thanking God for her strength as she continues to encourage others and moves forward despite her physical challenges. She is happily married and has five grandchildren.

Blog http://KatherinesCorner.com Blog Graphics at http://BlogArtByKatherine.com Shop http://KeepsakesByKatherine.etsy.com

Lanette Kissel lives in southern Indiana with her adopted Yorkie-Poo, Benjy. She enjoys singing in her huge choir at Crossroads Christian Church. She has been a freelance writer of Christian/Inspirational poetry for twelve years. Recently, she has been writing Inspirational articles and essays, as well as devotions.

Her work has appeared in: Mature Living Magazine, Purpose, Live, The War Cry, The Lutheran Journal, The Catholic Yearbook, Silver Wings, Inspired Women Magazine, and others.

Norma C. Mezoe began writing after a crisis in her life.

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

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Rejetta Morse enjoys writing poetry so she can write about God and how He speaks through nature. Writing poetry is a new found purpose and hobby she discovered over recent years which brings her joy, peace, and encouragement. She also enjoys reading poetry and is working to learn more about the craft of poetry. She spends her free time singing with her church choir and listening to gospel music, watching biographical movies, and encouraging other people.

Carol Peterson, Author My mission as a writer is to educate, entertain and inspire– children, their teachers and parents, other writers, and readers of all genres. As a children’s writer I try to “Make Learning Fun” by helping busy teachers address curriculum accountability standards, and encouraging other writers to do the same. You can connect with Carol at her blog, Carol Peterson, Author Carol is a member of the Ruby Book Review Team.

Jewell Utt has served in church leadership for over twenty years. She is the director of a local food pantry and the women’s ministry leader at her church. Her desire is to encourage women through writing, speaking and music. Jewell is a resource speaker for schools, churches, and women's events. She has been married for thirty-four years and has three grown sons. Contact her at: jewellutt@yahoo.com visit her website at: www.jewellutt.com.

Connie Chandler lives in a Hobbit Hole in Fort Wayne, Indiana, where she teaches and serves in international refugee ministry. She loves studying the Bible, trying new things, listening to stories, going on adventures, and drinking hot tea. She sits in a wheelchair because she has a disability that weakens her muscles but not her spirit. She shares the stories of God’s strength and faithfulness in her life on her blog: conniesbowlofcherries.blogspot.com.

Gloria Doty: I am a mother of 5 and grandmother of 13. I have owned a catering business, and a Grade A goat dairy. I have managed a restaurant, worked in retail and was Dir. of Children’s’ Ministries for a large church for 10 years. I have been writing since I was in third grade. I currently write 2 blogs about my youngest daughter, Kalisha, and our journey together through the world of mild mental retardation, autism and Aspergers.

Gloria blogs at www.gettingitright-occasionally.blogspot.com

Amy Lignor is the bestselling author of the YA/Inspirational series "The Angel Chronicles," as well as the adventure series, "Tallent and Lowery." The Editorin-Chief of Hallowed Ink Press as well as Suspense Magazine, Amy is a lover of historical research, libraries, and literary works.

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Sharon Patterson, retired educator, career military wife, and leader in women's ministry, has written inspirational encouragement in various forms from greeting cards to short stories, poetry, and Bible studies for over thirty years. She has authored three books: A Soldier's Strength from the Psalms (2007); Healing for the Holes in Our Souls(2008); and Where Is Happy?(2011). She is a contributing author for Chicken Soup for the Soul: A Book of Miracles and Chicken Soup for the Soul: Answered Prayer; also Gettin' Old Ain't for Wimps (Karen O'Connor,2004) and Special Strength for Special Parents (Nina Fuller, 2006).

She and her husband Garry live in Round Rock, Texas. They have three sons and five grandchildren.

Melissa Zelniker-Presser

lives with her wonderful husband Shlomi and their three children Avery, Collin and Meadow in South Florida. Melissa was born and raised in a Jewish home and later found Jesus at the age of 35. Shlomi, an Israeli Jew, was not far behind, finding the Lord shortly thereafter. Both Melissa and Shlomi are practicing attorneys in the criminal justice field. Their journey is one of brokenness, mercy and redemption. You can read her blog posts at Work for the Cause Not the Applause.

Donna Comeaux resides in Tulsa, Oklahoma with her husband, Glenn.

Together, they have two children and five grandchildren. She draws inspiration from her life, the life of others, the news, and her wild and vivid imagination.

She is a freelance writer and has written several poems for funerals and weddings, and is in the process of editing her first completed family saga, White Castle. She wrote her second novel, Taken by Choice, and a short story, Selfish Ambition, in 2014.

Michelle S. Lazurek has been a pastor's wife for over twelve years. Whether it is through writing counseling material, organizing ladies retreats or mentoring women in her church, Michelle considers each day an opportunity to find her place in God's story. In 2007, Michelle and her husband Joe planted Praxis Church.

Michelle holds a Master's degree in Counseling and Human Relations from Liberty University. She has two beautiful children: Caleb and Leah. Michelle provides tips for busy writers on her blog The Writers’ Tapestry: Where Writing and Life Intertwine http://www.michellelazurek.com

Alisha Ritchie is a wife, mother of two wonderful children, Physical Therapy Assistant by profession, and dedicated church member and Sunday School teacher. She resides in the small town of Stanfield, North Carolina, where she enjoys writing, spending time with her children, and ministering to others through her work and small group Bible studies. You can read other devotions she has written on www.christiandevotions.us.

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Stacy Flury is mom to two grown daughters, the youngest of which is homeschooled and will graduate next year. She has been married for 32 years and lives in New Jersey.

In addition to being a wife and a mom, Stacy is the writer of the blog Anchor of Promise, a support and educational blog for parents with hurting and troubled teens. She is currently writing her first book, Anchor in the Parenting Storms: Survival Devotions for Parents with Teens in Crisis.

Kathleen Katt Luce is a registered nurse, married, the mother of two and grandmother of seven. It brings her great joy to share Christ with the lost and lonely. Over the years she's learned a great deal while facilitating Bible studies. She's found herself on college and university campuses, the beach, the streets, the hospital, the jail and the facility for incarcerated teens, sharing God’s message of love. She is also an online missionary with Global Media Outreach. She has seen countless lives transformed when people turn away from sin and turn to Jesus. The changes God makes are real and lasting.

She writes a blog: www.kathleensfaithwalk.com

Ifeoma Samuel is privileged to be a Woman after God’s heart and is happily married to her sweet heart Obiora Samuel. She is the author of the new book My 30 Days Journey To a Fulfilled Life. You can find her blogging regularly at Purposeful and Meaningful You can also connect with her on Pinterest, Google+ and on Facebook.

Cindy Knisley I have been an educator for 24 years in a suburban Philadelphia high school, I have always enjoyed language and writing. Teaching German and Latin trained me to respect the nuances of structure and story as well as the power of words. Three years ago I felt called by God to leave the work I loved in order to support my aging parents. My home is in West Chester, PA, where I tend a "secret garden," enjoy my grandchildren, attend church, and write.

Kathleen McCauley has been an active retreat leader for over 25 years.

She received her professional training as a Campus Minister and retreat leader at the University of Dayton. Kathleen enjoys working with adults in their cultivation of spirituality and personal growth. Prior to her work as a Career Counselor at Neumann University, Kathleen served as a Resident Minister for eight years at St. Joseph’s University and seven additional years giving retreats for local churches and community groups. You can contact Kathleen to learn more about her retreat work at kathleenmccauley1@msn.com

Mary Dolan Flaherty is a quirky gal who loves to encourage people and make them laugh. She writes and speaks with self-deprecating humor and transparency, saying what most people think but won’t admit. She lives in New Jersey with her husband, whom she affectionately calls Hubbles, and has two grown children and two grand-dogs. Mary enjoys hiking, theatre, music, gardening, and traveling and can be found blogging at 56 SonRiseInsights.blogspot.com.

Heather King is a wife to a wonderful husband and a mom to three beautiful girls. A former English teacher, she now lives a life of doing dishes, folding laundry, finding lost toys and mending scraped knees. She treks to the grocery store more times a week than she’d like and struggles to keep up with chores, appointments and the todo list that refreshes itself day after day. In addition to all that, she’s the worship leader at her church in Virginia, a Bible study teacher and women’s ministry leader.

You can find her blogging about these times with God at her devotional site: Room To Breathe: http://heathercking.wordpress.com/

Kathryn Ross is an enrichment artist, writer, speaker, and independent publisher at Pageant Wagon Publishing with a mission is to nurture the seeds of all good things, innocence, and beauty in the human heart. Her books and storytelling programs engage young and old with dramatic flair.

Many of Miss Kathy’s inspirational works and discipleship tools are designed to minister to all ages—all at the same time. She lives with her bookseller husband, a storyteller in his own right, and two literary cats. Inspired by the stillness of birdsong and silent reflection, teatime, God’s Word, classic literature, and the arts inform her words with a splash of old world elegance.

Timeless truths leap from the page and the stage through Pageant Wagon Publishing and Productions. Weekly doses of enriching words and images stir the heart through her blog at The Writer’s Reverie.

Joan Leotta has been playing with words since childhood. She is a poet, essayist, journalist, playwright, and author of several books both fiction and nonfiction for children and adults. She is also a performer and gives one-woman shows on historic figures and spoken word folklore shows as well as teaching writing and storytelling.

Joan lives in Calabash, NC where she walks the beach with husband, Joe. www.joanleotta.wordpress.com and https://www.facebook.com/pages/Joan-LeottaAuthor-and-Story-Performer/188479350973

Frances Gregory Pasch’s devotions and poems have been published in devotional booklets, magazines, and Sunday school papers since 1985. Her writing has also appeared in several dozen compilations. Her book, Double Vision: Seeing God in Everyday Life Through Devotions and Poetry is available on Amazon.

Frances has been leading a women’s Christian writers group since 1991. You can contact her at www.francesgregorypasch.com.

Sarah Johnson writes, photographs and gardens from her home near the tidal marshes of the Delaware Bay. Her work is inspired by the glory of God’s creation and the nuances of light in life, from that of literal sunshine to the shadow-dispelling joy of serving her Creator. Herding three cats, two children and a husband, keeps her busy between editing flowerbeds and weeding paragraphs. She is the editor of 'Garden Cumberland', a gardeners resource that encourages others to find their hearts in the sunshine and soil of South Jersey. https://www.facebook.com/GardenCumberland 57

Keith Wallis, Poet-in-Residence 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 an eye for detail as well as faith into his poetry. As well as being ‘poet in residence’ at Ruby magazine, 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.

Beth Brubaker, Assistant Editor Beth is a humorist poet and songwriter, and her day jobs include homemaking, writing, and paper and fabric arts.

Beth has been a Christian since her early twenties, and has been married to her "Knight In Dented Armor" since 1997. She is the mother of two teenage children and two cats (she still hasn't told the cats they were adopted...Shh!) Her oldest child has Asperger’s, which helps her see things a little differently through his eyes.

Beth's passion is the written word, and is developing ways of sharing her brand of humor with the world through poems, songs and stories. She enjoys sharing her struggles and experiences with others, to encourage them to find their own passions and attain what they want out of life- and to find joy and humor along the way.

Don't miss Beth's columns and puzzles in every issue of Ruby for Women! You can read Beth's posts on her blog Footprints in the Mud at http://footprintsinthemudblog.blogspot.com or emails her at bethatruby@aol.com.

Nina Newton, Sr. Editor When all of my four older children were in school, I returned to college as a “non-traditional student.” Eventually, I earned degrees in Classics and Philosophy, and a graduate degree in Medieval Studies: History of Theology.

After teaching at a small community college in Michigan for seven years, my husband and I were blessed with the adoption of our two beautiful daughters, Gracie and Annie. Gracie is 14 years old and Annie is 13.

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 on Ruby for Women in my home office.

I have worked for several years offering my handmade and refashioned garments and accessories in a local boutique under the creative name of “Vintage Mama’s Cottage.” My personal blog is at www.mamaslittletreasures.com 58

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 by contacting us at editor@rubyforwomen.com Questions? Email Nina @ editor@rubyforwomen.com or Beth @ bethatruby@aol.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 Beth Brubaker, Assistant Editor bethatruby@aol.com Advertising inquiries should be directed to connie@rubyforwomen.com Creative Consultant, Katherine Corrigan of Blog Art by Katherine http://katherinescorner.com/blog-art/

Please visit the Ruby for Women blog for information about submissions, advertising, or to read previous issues of the Ruby for Women magazine. www.rubyforwomen Website design by Blog Art by Katherine

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