Ruby summer 2014 by RUBY magazine

Ruby for Women Ruby for Women

A voice for every Christian woman A voice for everyAutumn Christian2013 woman

Summer, 2014

“. . . . her worth is far above rubies.” Proverbs 31:10

Ruby for Women A voice for every Christian woman Summer, 2014

Summertime! A time for fun and relaxation, family and friends. Summer also offers an invitation to pull out your reading list and get caught up on some of your favorite books. Here at Ruby for Women, we offer you an opportunity to connect with others who share your faith, and a place to hear the words of inspiration and encouragement from our writers. We hope you will enjoy this issue of the Ruby for Women magazine. Please visit us at the Ruby blog at www.rubyforwomen.com Senior Editor: Nina Newton Assistant Editor: Amanda Johnson Poetry: Keith Wallis Creative Assistant: Katherine Corrigan Family Fun Editor: Beth Brubaker Gardening: Dorothy Kurchak Devotions: Lynn Mosher Feature Writers: Connie Arnold, Jennifer Workman, Theresa Ceniccola, Mimi Spurlock, Chris Roe, Sharon L. Patterson, Elizabeth Baker, Gloria Doty, Kristi Burchfiel, Yvonne Carson, Angela Morris, Rhea B. Riddle, Amanda Stephan, Tricia Goyer, Michelle Lazurek, Connie Chandler, Kristin Bridgman, Linda M. Crate, Debra Ann Elliott, Corallie Buchanan, Christie Workman, Heather King, Patrice D. Wilkerson, Lanette Kissel, Cindy J. Evans, Brenda Diaz, Donna Comeaux, Sarah Johnson, Meg Manning, Cindy Bailey, Cathy Dyer, Donna McBroom-Theriot, Theresa Begin

In This Issue . . . Page

Title

Pieces of the Truth Nina Newton, Sr. Editor

The Weak are Made Strong Amanda Johnson, Asst. Editor

Father to the Fatherless Jane Hoppe

Celebrate Dad! Vintage Mama

Page 9

Number Block Puzzle Beth Brubaker

Sweet Summer Salsa Recipes Vintage Mama

Summertime Donna Comeaux

Time Flows Keith Wallis

The Curse of Scripture Keith Wallis

This Noble City Sharon L. Patterson

Frugal and Fascinating Decorations for the Home Garden Dorothy Kurchak

Poems from the Heart Beatrice Egnot

Joyful June Giveaway

Page 17

Page 25

Page 26

Ruby for Women is an online Christian women’s magazine that offers words of hope, inspiration, and encouragement to women everywhere. Knowing that every woman has a story to tell, we seek to give a “voice to every Christian woman,” from all walks of life, of every age, from all around the world. For advertising inquiries, please contact Nina Newton at editor@rubyforwomen.com If you would like to share your story with Ruby for Women, please email our Assistant Editor, Amanda Johnson, at ajohnson@rubyforwomen.com Also, please visit our blog at www.rubyforwomen.com where you can connect with other Christian women. Ruby for Women 2731 W 700 N 1 Columbia City, IN 46725 editor@rubyforwomen.com

Page

Title

Linda Au, Author Interview by Beth Brubaker

Through a Mist of Care Lynn Mosher

The Good King Linda M. Crate

Invitation to the Kitchen Table Sharon L. Patterson

We’re All Different Linda M. Crate

Remembering Laughter Linda M. Crate

Stress: It’s a Killer! Christie Workman

The Truest Friend Linda M. Crate

Joy and Peace Brenda Diaz

What Do You See? Jennifer Workman

Build a Better Burger Katherine Corrigan

Ask Beth Beth Brubaker

Page 29

Page 35

Happy Thoughts Double Puzzle Beth Brubaker

Flying Blind Corallie Buchanan

Celebrate Every Day! Emilee from The Bird and the Bicycle

A Seed Connie Chandler

Footprints in the Mud Know Your Enemy! Beth Brubaker

Selfish Ambition Donna Comeaux

Eggah: Egyptian Breakfast Recipe Donna Comeaux

Page 45

Misconceptions Beth Brubaker

Page 61

Page 71

Page 73

Finding and Giving Forgiveness Sharon L. Patterson

DIY Bible Verse Pennant Flag Project Kimber from Sublime Living

Giant Paper Pinwheels Tutorial Melissa from Lulu the Baker

Ruby Pearls Beth Brubaker

That Awkward Phase Cindy Bailey

If You Only Believe Linda M. Crate

Generations Cindy J. Evans

Beautiful Chaos Connie Chandler

For Duncan and Nedra on Their Wedding Day Keith Wallis

Why I Refuse to Step Foot on a Cruise Ship this Summer Aubrey Page

Page 51

The Deer’s Cry Rhea Riddle

More Summer Salsa Recipes Vintage Mama

God’s Fruit Salad Sharon L. Patterson

Material or Spiritual! Lanette Kissel

Number Block Puzzle Answer Key Beth Brubaker

Come Back to Me Lanette Kissel

Happy Thoughts Double Puzzle Answer Key Beth Brubaker

Meet the Ruby Writers

Credits and Copyrights

Page 57

Lynn Mosher, Author Interview by Beth Brubaker

Page 77

Page 83

Ruby for Women Magazine and Blog We want to hear your story, because God has given a voice to every Christian woman.

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

4 http://www.9calendar.com/june-2014-wallpaper-with-calendar

Pieces of the Truth Nina Newton, Sr. Editor “Instead, speaking the truth in love, we will in all things grow up into him who is the Head, that is, Christ.” Ephesians 4:15 (NIV) If you’ve ever questioned yourself, wondering if you really understand God’s Word – especially when all around us we hear the voices of a thousand and one speakers, preachers, teachers, and authors all clamoring for our attention, claiming to speak the “truth,” and they are frequently all saying something different – then you are not alone. If you are a seeker, genuinely desiring to hear God’s voice in the midst of all that clatter, then there will be times when you feel confused. For many years I was the kind of Christian who took everything “to heart.” Every time I heard a missionary message at church, I was pretty sure that God was calling me to be a missionary. But then, the next day I would hear a speaker on the Christian radio station telling me that if I REALLY wanted to honor God, and if I REALLY loved my children, then we would choose to home school . . . . or put our kids in a Christian school . . . . or I would do ten thousand and one other things that would make me a “successful” Christian. It wore me out trying to figure out how to do it all! It’s no wonder I was confused. Not everyone is quite that introspective and sensitive to the words of those around them. Some people seem to be able to shut out the cacophony of voices telling us how to pray, when to pray, for how long to pray, how to read the Bible, when to read the Bible, how long to read the Bible. Some people seem to be able to go along their merry way, never heeding the calls to correction, or reflection, or commitment. It took many years of searching, reading, seeking, and trying everything that came along that promised if I just did “this” or “that” or something else, I would soon discover that everything in my life was in tune with my Heavenly Father.

I was usually exhausted, wondering why all of those “tricks” hadn’t brought peace and joy to my life. I was convinced that someone out there had absolute Truth (with a capital “T”) and if I just slogged through the mud and mire of everyday life long enough, I would find it, too. My problem was not that I was mistaken about the existence of absolute Truth (with a capital “T”), but the roadblock in my mind and in my heart was that I had been convinced that one of those voices out there actually contained total and absolute Truth. But since so many of those voices were saying different things, and most of them even sounded like they really were “right,” I just couldn’t find the Truth that my heart was searching for. Then, one day, I discovered that I had it all wrong. I forgot that, as human beings, we are finite and God is infinite; I forgot that his ways are not our ways, and his thoughts are higher than our thoughts. I suddenly remembered that God alone has and is Absolute Truth – and that for all the good intentions (or not) that motivated all those voices that claimed to be speaking the Truth, I had only been hearing “pieces of truth.” I discovered that I needed to seek the Truth from God, and God alone. I needed to stop running myself ragged, trying to live up to the expectations of this one or that one, or someone else who thought they knew my heart and my mind. Now, I listen and I hear the words from trusted voices; I have learned to shut out some of the “noise” that frequently surrounds me; and I have discovered that I can trust God to reveal to me His 5 Absolute Truth, if I slow down long enough to listen for His whisper in my heart.

The Weak are Made Strong: Women in Power by Amanda Johnson Scripture reading: Judges 4 We read of stories throughout history of women who are seen as little more than servants. It’s taken a long time for women to have their voices heard and to be respected as individuals in society. In fact, it wasn’t until 1920 that women were allowed to vote in the United States on a national level. History is filled with the battle for women’s rights. God never intended for women to be seen as weak or insignificant. We see that in the book of Judges, where God uses two particular women to bring victory to the nation of Israel. During the time between God’s appointed judges and leaders, the people of Israel turned from serving God to worshiping foreign idols. Their disobedience led to a life of oppression under King Jabin’s rule. In their distress, the people of Israel cried out to God asking for Him to send someone to save them. God responds by appointing Deborah as judge.

Two important facts to note: One, Deborah did not mean herself but another woman. Two, Barak didn’t blink. He was OK with that. In fact, after the victory, both Barak and Deborah sang a song about the battle telling everyone exactly what happened (Judges 5). So who is the woman that will defeat Sisera? Her name is Jael and she lives with her husband near King Jabin’s territory. Jael and her people are on friendly terms with Jabin and his people. On the day of the battle, Sisera flees the battlefield and seeks refuge from Jael. She quickly invites him into her tent and provides him with something to drink and a blanket for him to rest on. Too bad for Sisera, Jael is no mere woman. She serves the One True God and she knows what she must do. While Sisera sleeps, Jael drives a tent peg into his temple killing him immediately (Judges 4:17-21). The victory is Jael’s.

Deborah is described as a prophetess and the wife of Lapidoth (Judges 4:4). She is not merely a wife or a prophetess; she is both. As appointed judge, Deborah seeks God’s wisdom in regards to judgment over the people of Israel (Judges 4:5).

Isn’t that amazing? The weak and oppressed are God’s warriors. Thought to be the underdogs, God quickly shows that through His power, the weak are made strong. Through their trust in God, Ehud, Deborah, and Jael were given the victory.

One day, God tells Deborah to call for his servant Barak and inform him that he is to fight against Jabin’s top commander, Sisera. Barak agrees, but with one condition, “If you (Deborah) will go with me, then I will go; but if you will not go with me, I will not go!” (Judges 4:8).

It’s funny how people still act odd towards those who are different, yet time and time again we see that God uses the very people who are different to stand out and change the world.

Deborah agrees to join Barak in war, but warns him “I will surely go with you; nevertheless there will be no glory for you in the journey you are taking, for the Lord will sell Sisera into the hand of a woman” (Judges 4:9).

It doesn’t matter if we’re left-handed, right-handed, male or female. It doesn’t matter what we look like or where we come from. We are all one body under the authority and Lordship of Jesus Christ and through Him we, 6 the weak, are made strong!

Father to the Fatherless Dearest Dad,

by Jane Hoppe

On Father’s Day 2013, I gave you a store-bought card expressing this prayer for you: that God would bless everything you do. Nowadays that is blowing your drippy nose, shooting the wadded tissue into the wastebasket (two points!), rotating your wrists to the beat of whatever music is playing in the Alzheimer’s wing, smiling during wheelchair exercise class, pawing through the contents of your nightstand drawers, dozing outside the nurses’ station with your chin resting on your chest—and kissing your wife of 65 years. Since Father’s Day 2012, God has blessed your jigsaw puzzle and limited conversational abilities and your ability to see beauty in the hallways and courtyards of the nursing home. “This is very beautiful,” you’d say as I wheeled you around. You used to have words to tell Mom she’s beautiful, too, though now you say it with your tired eyes perking up to smile in her direction. A year ago you rarely took your love-blazing eyes off Mom; yesterday you dozed a bit during your Father’s Day party, didn’t say much, and didn’t light up when Mom read your cards to you. Last year you read all your cards aloud to us. This past year, God has gradually gathered more of you to Himself. I feel deep loss as the father I knew slips away from me. I don’t know when our heavenly Father will enfold you in His arms forever. But I know He has blessed us with your kind, cheerful, gentlemanly presence, even as Alzheimer’s disease has diminished your faculties. As your fading fatherhood retreats from me, God’s fatherhood comes more clearly into focus. That is yet another blessing. I no longer have you to practice eye-hand coordination with me in the yard and on the tennis court, to help me with my homework, especially those doggone math story problems. But I notice myself more often seeing God’s fingerprints on my education . . . like putting 2 and 2 together (Aha!) as I study the Bible or French or storytelling techniques, and giving me more opportunities to forgive, for example, when He’s teaching me courage in relationships. God’s fathering has been there all along, but I appreciate it more now, I think.

Dad, you won’t be there to hold my hand next time I’m scared. Remember when you came with me to sign my first mortgage? Sitting at that loan officer’s big mahogany desk, though I was nearly 30, I think I literally clung to your big hand. No, you can’t possibly remember that day—or your funny, perfect, housewarming gift. You bought me a whole set of apple-green plastic hangers to match my new condo’s unbelievably garish apple-green and mirror-silver wallpaper. Probably only God and I, and maybe Mom, remember those things. I get scared now, too, when I speak in public, or know I need to confront someone in love, or make a big decision. I take comfort in knowing my Father God has gone before me in everything; He has prepared my way, will hold my hand, and provide whatever courage and comfort I need. God surprises me with perfect gifts, too, just as you did. One last word. My memory’s eye sees you running barefoot across the den to the tall wooden stand cradling your much explored unabridged dictionary. You loved words and wordplay. When you still lived at home with Mom and I came to your door, you’d invite me in, “Join us; we’ll come apart if you don’t.” After one of your explosive signature sneezes, you’d quip, “Long noses run in our family.” Though I’m not quick-witted enough to wear your punster shoes, I have inherited your word-loving legacy. That Alzheimer’s disease has stolen your words is a cruelty I can hardly bear. As I age and more and more often search for words to complete sentences, I fear this same thief might have commandeered my brain. So as I thank God for you and pray His blessings on everything you do, my dear sweet father, I also pray that our Father of the fatherless will carry me into the future. I have double reasons to celebrate Father’s Day.

Psalm 68:5 “A father to the fatherless, a defender of widows, is God in his holy dwelling.”

Celebrate Dad with this handmade banner card from Vintage Mama’s Cottage Not only is this banner card fun to make, it is a project that you can use up bits and pieces and tiny scraps of ribbons and other fibers, as well as solo vintage buttons and any other ephemera you might have hiding out in the back of your scrapbooking or craft drawer. In addition, it is not only a card that you can send through the mail, is can be displayed year ‘round on a mantle or shelf to remind Dad or Grandpa that they are loved and thought of often. For our Father’s Day Banner Card we chose a color combination of dark red, black, ivory, and brown with a bit of gold rick-rack to give it a little “pop” of color. We also used a few stick-on keys and watches for a masculine look. The paper is scrapbook cardstock that was purchased at Hobby Lobby in the colors we chose. Each piece of the cardstock is 6” X 6” square, but you could use any size you want. Using a square, however, provides a wider base if you want to make a stand-up banner card. Pull out your odds and ends of scrapbooking ephemera, a few ribbons, braids, and buttons and let’s get started making a Father’s Day Banner Card! What you need: * Scrapbooking cardstock, 6” X 6” squares (you can cut your own to this size or use regular scrapbooking paper cut to this size and glued onto a piece of plain cardstock)

* Scraps of ribbon, braid, rick-rack, paper * Vintage buttons, scrapbooking ephemera * Scissors * Glue

* Paper cutter

* Heavy books and tin foil

Let’s make it! Step 1: Begin by deciding which colors and patterns of paper you will be using. Choose twice the number of squares of cardstock that you will need for the word you want to spell (six for Father or seven for Grandpa). Step 2: Glue two pieces of cardstock, back to back, for each letter of your banner card. So, if you want to spell “Father” you will need 12 squares of cardstock and glue them together, two at a time, back to back, to finish with six squares of double thickness cardstock. Cover each square with a piece of tinfoil (to prevent sticking) and weigh down with a heavy book or two and let dry overnight. This is to prevent the cardstock from curling or buckling while it is drying and you will have a nice flat surface to work on for each letter collage. * You can also use regular scrapbook paper, cut to the right size for your banner card letters, and glue one square to either side of a piece of regular cardstock. Use the tinfoil to cover each square and weigh it down with a heavy book so that it will dry flat. Step 4: Print out the letters on plain cardstock to spell out the word for either “Father” or “Grandpa” (or even “Dad” or “Papa” or whatever special name you have in your family for your special Daddy!) You can find lots of alphabet letters at Granny Enchanted’s blog . . . . every style, every season, every color you can imagine! They are all free to print out and use for your craft and scrapbook projects, but be sure to leave a sweet comment and let her know how much you appreciate her generosity. Step 5: Cut out the letters and prepare them to be placed on the cardstock squares: either cut them out completely or if there is a background to each letter that coordinates with your theme, cut around the background. Match each letter of the word you have chosen to one of the cardstock squares. 10

You will want to glue each letter onto a card square before completing the rest of the embellishments. * If you would like to create a “frame” for each letter to make it stand out better on your cardstock squares, simply glue each letter onto a solid color background and cut around the letter leaving a ¼” frame all around.

This is helpful if you have a background card square that might be too “busy” and the frame will bring out the letter so it doesn’t get “lost” in the background pattern.

After you have all of your letters prepared, it is time to line up your cardstock squares in order and glue the letters in place! * For our Father’s Day banner card, we alternated the colors, beginning with a dark red card, then a black card, then another dark red card and so on. You could use all the same color background on your card squares, or you could use a different color for each one. Step 6: After you glue one letter to each cardstock square, you will again want to cover each one with tin foil and weigh it down with a heavy book or two, to be sure that it dries flat. Now it is time to begin to figure out what embellishments you want on each of your cardstock squares. * Try different combinations of braids, ribbons, rick-rack, buttons or gems, vintage pictures or other scrapbook ephemera, including chipboard shapes such as keys, or clocks, or gardening utensils, or fishing images, or anything that your Dad or Grandpa is fond of.

For the first mini-collage with the letter “F,” we made a little medallion using a strip of folded paper (simply fold accordionstyle the entire length of a strip of scrapbook paper and then bring one end around to meet the other, creating a circular medallion – glue the ends together and weigh down until it dries), and then added a vintage button and four strips of narrow black ribbon. With a gold chipboard key and a black and gold tone button, this one was complete! Our second card with the letter “A” features a bottom border created using black satin ribbon and a scrap of gold rick-rack that we found in the bottom of our scrap box. Then a vintage watch face from our scrapbooking stash was added at the upper right side of the letter, and three brown vintage buttons are lined up along the left side of the letter, with the largest button at the top, down to the smallest button on the bottom. The letter “T” is embellished with a strip of wide black rick-rack down the left side of the card and a strip of brown braid across the top, creating a little “corner” where a vintage brown button fits just perfectly! A pewter colored chipboard key stands boldly along the right side of the letter and a vintage black button adds balance to that side of the card.

For the letter “H” we cut a strip of dark red paper and glued it on the right side of the card, and glued a narrow ivory satin ribbon down the center. This made a perfect background for four vintage brown buttons. With the black and white polka dot background, and the writing behind the letter, this card really didn’t need very much more embellishment! One pewter colored watch embellishment was added to the bottom left corner of the letter to balance the design. 12

The letter “E” card has a bottom border of black and white stripes cut from one of the extra cards, and a narrow black satin ribbon strip was glued across the top of that border, as well as along the top of the card. A gold tone chipboard key embellishes the left side of the letter. At the lower right corner we placed a medallion cut from a piece of scrap paper, with a vintage military button in the center.

The final card with the letter “R” has old-fashioned corners cut from scraps of the dark red paper, a strip of wide black rick-rack down the left side of the letter, a pewter-colored chipboard key along the bottom of the letter, and a medallion cut from another piece of scrapbook paper that says “Journey.” A vintage black and rhinestone button finishes this last card just perfectly! Step 7: When you complete the embellishments on each card, it is important that you allow them all to dry overnight. I have found that the best way to dry your cards with the most successful outcome is to place each card between layers of tin foil and weight it down with a heavy book or two. Even if you have a few embellishments that are threedimensional such as buttons or chipboard shapes, a heavy book will weigh it down while it is drying so that it stays more securely in place. Step 8: After all your card squares are embellished and thoroughly dry, it is time to connect them together to make a banner. Begin by punching three holes in the RIGHT side of the first card (do not punch holes in the LEFT side of the first card), using a single-hole punch. 13

Measure the length of the side of the card and divide it evenly so that your three holes are the same distance apart. For instance, if your cards are 6” X 6”, the top hole would be approximately ½” from the top, the middle hole would be at exactly 3” from top and bottom, and the bottom hole would be ½” from the bottom, so that each hole is 2 ½” apart. Then, punch three holes in BOTH sides of the remaining middle card squares, leaving the last card square with holes punched in ONLY the LEFT side. Measure each row of holes to match the card to which it will be connected. Step 9: After all the cards have three holes punched along the sides, you can begin to lace them together with ribbon, twine, or yarn. We used a fuzzy fiber yarn in shades of brown, ivory, gray and black to coordinate with the colors of the cards.

Pull one end of the ribbon or yarn through from the back of the top hole on both cards. Tie a double-knot, making sure that the cards do not overlap (or the banner will not stand up correctly). You want to tie the ribbon or yarn tight enough to hold the cards side-by-side, but not so tight that they overlap. Continue tying ribbon or yarn through each set of holes, connecting one card to the other, until you have them all connected. When you have them all connected you can trim any excess length from the ribbon or yarn if you want to. Stand your banner card on a mantle, creating a little zig-zag design or you can also stand the banner card in a semicircle. 14

Because of the thickness of this card, it cannot be mailed in a regular envelope but you can make a gift envelope out of scrap book paper to match the card, and mail it in a larger, padded envelope.

For more creative, crafty tutorials, please visit Vintage Mamaâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s Cottage

Stop by Room to Breathe for daily inspirational posts at http://heathercking.wordpress.com/

Find great book reviews and so much more at Create with Joy. 15

Number Block Puzzle by Beth Brubaker

Answer key on page 84.

Daily devotions for every day of the month from Kristi Burchfiel

Sweet Summer Salsa Recipes from the Blogosphere by Vintage Mama Every issue of Ruby for Women features seasonal recipes that we have discovered all around the blogosphere. This summer, we found a wide variety of fruit salsa recipes that would make a delightful side-dish to every family meal. Some of the fruit salsas are great with meat, chicken, or fish dishes, and some of them would be the perfect topping to bring a little pizzazz to a simple ice cream dessert. Lots of yummy fruit salsa recipes that not only look delicious, but they are oh-so pretty, too!

Strawberry-Peach Salsa from Stephanie at Keeper of the Home Ingredients • 1 cup peaches (about 2 peaches, roughly chopped) • 2 cups strawberries, stems removed • 3 of a medium green pepper, chopped into large chunks • 1/2 small onion, chopped (white or red onion will work. Red onion provides a stronger flavor) • 2 teaspoons honey • 1/2 – 1 jalapeño pepper (or more, depending on how hot you like your salsa) • 1 teaspoon lemon juice • 2 teaspoons olive oil or avocado oil Makes 2 1/2-3 cups.

Visit Stephanie at “Keeper of the Home” for more seasonal recipes and inspirational blog posts 17

Easy Strawberry Salsa from the kitchen of Amy at “She Wears Many Hats” Amy’s recipe for Easy Strawberry Salsa features a delightful mixture of strawberries, balsamic, vinegar, honey, fresh basil, and lemon zest, combined together to make the perfect summertime salsa. So versatile, this salsa is the perfect accompaniment to any summer picnic, with Cinnamon Sugar Pita Chips, or over your favorite summer dessert. Please visit Amy at “She Wears Many Hats” for this recipe and more summer recipes and lifestyle tips. Image used by permission of Amy at She Wears Many Hats

Strawberry Blueberry Salsa from the kitchen of Stephanie at Eat.Drink.Love This summer fruit salsa is absolutely perfect for your Fourth of July picnic! Sweet and spicy, teamed up with your favorite tortilla chips, and you have a summertime snack or dessert that your whole family will love. Be sure to visit Stephanie at Eat.Drink.Love for more summer recipe ideas. What you need: • 2 cups fresh strawberries, diced • 2 cups fresh blueberries • 1-2 tbs. finely diced jalapeno pepper, seeds removed (feel free to adjust) • 1/3 cup fresh cilantro, chopped • 1 large lime, juiced • salt to taste • tortilla chips

Let’s make it! In a bowl, mix together the strawberries, blueberries, jalapeno pepper, cilantro, and the lime juice until wellcombined. Season with salt. Serve with tortilla chips at room temperature or chilled. This salsa is best served the same day it is made. Yield: 4 cups Prep Time: 15 minutes

Recipe and image used by permission of Stephanie at Eat.Drink.Love

Summertime by Donna Comeaux

One perfect spring day many years ago, a breeze blew caterpillars into my hair and I ran off squealing, hating to touch those creepy crawlers. Knowledge of their metamorphic process escaped me. In their new form, I watched them flutter through the air in brilliant pigments. After many attempts, I’d catch one and hold it on my fingertip as its soft beautiful wings slowly moved back and forth. I delighted in their competition for space with floating dandelions, dust mites, bumblebees, and wasps. I had enough time back then to spontaneously roll up my pant legs on hot summer days, grab a fishing pole, and stand on the edge of a sunny, warm, windy Gulf Coast. Fishing was not only fun, but serious business. A successful catch determined if we had meat for dinner. Crabbing was more of a challenge and proved scary for a nine-year-old. If careless, you’d find yourself in a fit of pain. Careful and you rode home with pride. Two steps off a stoop in any direction in our tiny city and you’d land on the Gulf of Mexico’s upper lip. Late summers provided us with more water than we knew what to do with. It was the season for it. It’d recede in time. However, the rain had a way of slowing us down and keeping us in one place. So, we made time for other fun things—baking cookies, making cool-pops, popcorn balls, and praline pecan candies. If we needed a dollar or two to pay our 4-H Club dues or entry fees for another contest, we’d sell dinners to hungry refinery workers, offshore seamen, beauticians, and shoppers outside the neighborhood market.

When Grandmother wasn’t trying to meet a deadline, she’d teach us to sew pretty dresses to wear to church. In those days, there was no such thing as a CD player, iPad, PC, iTunes, or YouTube. News and music traveled through a 12-inch box that plugged into the wall. If the tuning wasn’t quite right, it crackled or faded in and out. Every Sunday morning, without fail, Grandmother turned up the radio then moved about the kitchen and prepared breakfast. I can still hear the radio flooding our bedroom with the sounds of gospel music. The smell of Grandmother’s hot fluffy biscuits always permeated the air. Cane’s syrup, in its traditional bright yellow can, sat in the middle of her table. Butter and fig preserves not far away. I remember Grandmother’s many desserts—a hot peach cobbler on the cabinet in need of a large scoop of ice cream and a tablespoon. Or what about the scrumptious bread pudding I still haven’t been able to replicate. Granddaddy cut sugarcane from his backyard where we’d sit on the porch swinging our legs, cackling and teasing one another as pure liquid sugar ran down our faces. On hot days, we sat in the grass and ate cold watermelon then engaged in a seed-spitting contest. Other times, we sneaked peaches off Granddaddy’s trees, rubbed them hard against our shorts—our way of cleaning them. We’d open wide then bite down. Disappointed, we’d find worms inside, or worse, they’d be hard and green. Hadn’t Granddaddy 19 warned us to stay away from those peach trees? Hadn’t he warned us they weren’t ripe?

“Fifty years later, I’ve discovered I have lost things with age—patience, time, loved ones, and tender moments meant to be enjoyed the instant God loaned them out.”

If we didn’t get into trouble over the peach trees, he’d scold us for picking figs too early. Granddaddy had two of them. We raided both. I can’t tell you how many times Grandmother made fig preserves and not once did I watch her do so. I wish I had. Though Grandmother was a stay-at-home-mom, she sometimes worked as a maid for what she called “pocket change.” She’d bring clothing home that needed ironing. I watched her scrub stubborn stains on a wash board, hang shirts on the line then mix a powdery substance with water. She dipped the shirts into this glob we have come to know as starch, wrung them, squeezed them into tight balls then placed each one in the refrigerator. Hours later, we took turns ironing shirts to perfection. I was a girly girl—dressed like a princess in secondhand clothes, always neat and clean, proper in speech. I must have taken on the façade of an alien to my younger family members. Once, I turned adventurous and decided to act tomboyish and climb trees. Falling one time too many halted my efforts to mimic those better at this task than I. Instead, I played with dolls, skipped rocks across a creek bed, jumped rope, played a horrible game of marbles, played jacks, made mud cakes, and tried to catch tadpoles in a nearby ditch. I relished competing with my brother to see which one of us could balance on the railroad tracks the longest. After we begged mother to let us go to Grandmother’s for the weekend, at night we’d swing as high as possible to see who’d touch the stars first before one of us went inside wimpy over mosquito bites. Fifty years later, I’ve discovered I have lost things with age—patience, time, loved ones, and tender moments meant to be enjoyed the instant God loaned them out.

The most precious thing I’ve lost is time. A part of me wants more of it. The other part of me is glad I have so little left. My remaining seconds motivate me to ante up and use time wisely. You couldn’t have convinced me of this revelation years ago. I tried to put as much nothingness into my day as possible so I’d officially be a part of that growing society always in need to flaunt their busyness. I’m wiser now. I crave intangible things. Moments. Moments I might take to sink my feet in hot wet sand and not worry about how I look in a bathing suit. Moments I might lie in the grass and blow bubbles and ignore condescending stares. It’d be nice to cut open a fresh watermelon and stand over it and suck in its aroma, remembering the days I never won a seed-spitting contest. As I watch dandelions fly through the air from my home office window, I can’t help but wonder if somewhere out there a child is giggling and laughing and having fun in these early days of summer. Are they playing in the rain, splashing their feet in one puddle of water after another? Are they trying to catch each droplet with the tip of their tongue? Drenched in pool water, have little feet trampled on momma’s new carpet as they tease one another over who’s the best swimmer? Are little ones mesmerized by new zoo animals? Do they try to waddle like baby ducks? Maybe parents have extended the children’s curfew during these hot summer months and have allowed them to chase fireflies with Mason jars. Maybe naughty brothers choose to chase sister with earthworms or snakes they found in the dirt. How many times will you scream at the kids to— Stop running in the house! Oooh, there’s nothing 20 like the sound of children playing in . . . Summertime.

Time flows Time flows like a burning stream over the precipices of urgency, always running out and dashing itself on the rocks. Time is the escapee, on the loose from jail, elusive and dangerous pursued by the hour police unarmed and without handcuffs. Time is the tyrannical dictator making laws that cannot be kept. Time is the lothario seducing with pseudo passion bent on one way satisfaction. Time is only late at the altar or the traffic accident or the deadline. Maybe it is always closing time.

A River of Small Stones by Keith Wallis A beautiful and inspirational book of poetry, perfect for gift-giving for every season of the year! Poems written as â&#x20AC;&#x153;small stones,â&#x20AC;? polished moments of paying proper attention to life Available at www.ariverofstones.blogspot.com

the curse of scripture the curse of scripture and scourge of sin the doomed of heaven and Satan’s kin joins meanwhile in the pain of love those below and those above until the curtain tears in two love from death and death from you. ~ Keith Wallis

Image: One of the ‘stations of the cross’ in Lincoln Cathedral

By Still Waters by Keith Wallis A celebration of life; poems and associated photographs of faith and experience. The light touch of a poet rejoicing in creation. Read more: http://wordsculptures-keith.blogspot.com/p/by-stillwaters.html 22

This Noble City by Sharon L. Patterson It has been almost 28 years ago that my husband and I loaded our three children into our new van and traveled from Texas to Washington, D.C. Our boys were 7, 8, and 9 at the time. Even at such young ages they were in awe of the city. The youngest couldn’t wait to see the Lincoln Memorial. They loved the Capitol and they listened quite patiently to all the things their history teacher mother and military father tried to convey about this noble city. My husband and I marveled at the carvings on the buildings. Nothing of our nation’s beginnings, including its many references to freedom and justice and its relationship to God’s providential blessings had been challenged. The principles had been questioned, revisionists had tried to rewrite our history but the foundations of our laws were still securely based on the 5000 year old Judeo-Christian Ten Commandments. Not long ago, my husband and I visited the noble city and viewed the same buildings, with the same carvings…including the ones on the Supreme Court Building where Moses is the central lawgiver. This last time, however there was quite a cultural struggle over whether or not our laws should be based on those same 5000 year old absolutes of constancy. What once was the solid base for our nation’s laws now seemed to be up against the newer idea of tolerance. Before I proceed much further, I want to explain what I feel “noble” means. I believe it is a quality reflected by frail human beings of sound and proven character (not perfect) who have recognized that to produce lasting works of goodness, they must look to the One who is greater than themselves. As both a lover and teacher of man’s history, I can find no period in the human story that is not flawed. But in history I have found many noble human beings who produced much good…not temporary popular good but good lasting generations beyond their time. I believe part of the noble things they did were because they thought past their time and were concerned with of the care of their fellow and future human beings. Although these noble ones did not always agree with one another, they worked with their differing views to points of commonly held truths that passed the test of time. And they looked further than that. Other governments they studied did not hold all that was needed for this new nation they were intent on forming. 23

The records of the meetings which preceded the writing of the Declaration of Independence and later our Constitution show that they sought God’s divine intervention. Even crusty old Benjamin Franklin, felt the need to pray to the One who governs in human affairs in the heat of creating the foundational document that would govern America. What documents he and the founding fathers produced…lasting ones that stayed the course of our history’s civil and foreign wars; the abolition of slavery and the l00 years it took to change minds to match the laws. The Constitution, in particular lasted - not because its words have changed meaning but because we and the generations behind us have come closer to its original intent so carefully worded by its makers. I have never feared different views as long as there is genuine listening on both sides…so long as noble thoughts prevail. We have always had strong discourse, loud oppositions, demonstrations … that is so human and so American. But it has always taken noble ones among us to steer us back before the brink of total division: those who love truth not based simply on man’s opinions but on tested, time honored truths; those who are not swayed by popularity polls; those who will stay the course on tough decisions; those who care about what will become of our sons’ and daughters’ America. Twenty-eight years ago, my little boys toured the landmarks of their capitol. Since then, they have done much more. They have defended the country whose landmarks they love. My youngest son, a purple heart recipient, now an Apache pilot and instructor has served three tours; our oldest son is an AGR Captain with the Army National Guard who has served in Iraq and will serve a second deployment in 2015. He was called to protect our airports following 9-11. My husband retired twelve years ago as a colonel after 30 years of service in the U.S. Army. I hope to one day take our five grandchildren to tour Washington just as I did my three boys…complete as it is now with its truths sculpted into so many of the landmarks. I hope that neither Moses nor the scriptures upon which our laws were founded will be plastered over. May there continue to be noble ones among us to govern the three branches of our government. If that indeed is the case, then in my next visit to Washington, D.C. I will turn to tell Garrett, Joshua, and Trinity, Corby and Gavin and say “Look, children at this noble city!” And when they ask their Grannah what noble means, I will tell them… 24

Frugal and Fascinating Decorations for the Home Garden by Dorothy Kurchak I really enjoy the beauty of each flower in the garden. It certainly shows the creativity of our Maker. I also discovered that objects or decorations can enhance the beauty of the garden. Some years ago I received a garden catalog that had a “stone tower.” Holes were drilled in stones and a rod was run through them to hold the rocks together. Well, I can’t drill holes in rocks so I just balanced them. It was challenging but fun. Then I gathered all the round stones I could find but there just was no way to get them to balance. So I purchased some cement “glue”, I don’t remember the name of it, and glued them together. My late husband, Mike, was a rock hound. As he walked through the fields he was always looking down. He not only found unusual rocks but also relics from the past such as tiny medicine bottles, a child’s toy flat iron and pieces of old machinery. I also got the idea from a garden magazine on how to make troughs and pots from concrete. (photo). I made this big one by putting some concrete in the bottom of a large plastic box, placing a smaller one on top and filling in around it. It took a few days for the concrete to harden. The local garden centers have started having more succulents for outdoor use. I’m nuts about them! I have some succulents as house plants too. Anyway, the trough looks really great with some plants I bought and hens and chicks that I already had. Now I have to decide where I’ll put it. The smaller trough I made is so full of hens and chicks that they are growing on top of each other. It looks great now but I will have to thin them out one of these days. I bring the concrete containers into the basement for the winter to protect the plants and the container. My basement looks like a greenhouse in winter with all the plants I want to save and the pots. I thank the Lord for all the beautiful flowers and plants He has given us. It’s so much fun to plant, care for and share flowers and plants. May you all have a very pleasant summer!

In Christ, Aunt Dots 25

Poems of the Heart by Beatrice Lewis Egnot Poems of the Heart is written by Beatrice Egnot, a seasoned believer. Bea’s lifelong love of her family as a devoted mother, and her years of touching the hearts and lives of children as a primary school teacher are reflected in her poetry. The joy she has experienced in her relationship with the Lord shines forth as He continues to heal her from suffering a stroke in 2001. “When I first started writing poems, my first child was a senior in high school,” recalls Bea. “You will notice that each poem is about a special person in my life and how I see them. Sometimes the poems are prophetic in nature,” she explains. “You will get to meet all of my wonderful family and friends,” Bea says. “These poems need to be read aloud to be enjoyed fully.” For information about ordering Poems of the Heart, please visit Bea’s website at www.beaegnot.com. You can also purchase a copy of Poems of the Heart directly from Amazon.

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Visit Donna Comeaux at her blog, A Writer First, to read her inspirational posts.

Meet the Ruby Writers Author Interview by Beth Brubaker

Linda Au Hi Linda! Thank you so much for joining us here at Ruby for Women. Please tell us a little about yourself: I’m a mild-mannered proofreader and typesetter by day, and a slightly insane, unevenly gifted writer by night. Well, strike that “mild-mannered” part. That’s a bit of a stretch. My husband, Wayne, and I have been married for nearly 15 years, and we came into this second marriage with six kids between us. They’re all grown now, but at the time we had four teenagers and two younger girls. That was a houseful! We recently moved into a huge restored Victorian semi-mansion, so we’re all ready for the grandkids ... and we’re still waiting. I think we might be the only empty-nesters who moved into a bigger house instead of a smaller one. Can you tell us a bit about your pets? When we got married in ‘99, I brought my beloved Burmese cat, Hershey, into the marriage, much to the chagrin of my feline-despising husband. He allowed it because she was already 14 years old. He figured, “How much longer can an old cat live?” Turns out she lived to be 20, vexing him beyond belief. It’s been nine years since she passed away, and I still miss her. She was that one special pet you never forget. Since then, Wayne and I have compromised on the pet thing: I keep two guinea pigs in my home office, out of sight and mostly out of hearing. (They can wheek pretty loudly if they hear food coming.) They’re Bob and Frid, though really, they should be Felix and Oscar, based on their individual tidiness levels. How do you balance family life, work, and writing? On the edge of a very sharp, very dangerous razor! Seriously, I am just now getting the hang of how to balance these things. My first “job” is still taking care of Wayne, who works insanely long and difficult hours at the nuke plant to keep me in the lifestyle to which I am accustomed (meaning, heat in the winter and food in the fridge). Beyond that, my days play out like this: Mornings, before dawn, I’m up to cook Wayne breakfast and send him off to work. Then I head back to bed until it’s at least light out, feed myself eggs and coffee, and catch up on TV shows I missed the day before. (Currently, I binge-watch episodes of House of Cards on Netflix or make sure I’m caught up with The Walking Dead, Game of Thrones, Justified, or any number of so-not-like-me shows. Don’t judge.) Then I do a few household chores – dishes, laundry, prepping for dinner – and finally hit the shower just before noon. I eat lunch, crash at the desk in my office (after feeding Bob and Frid, who start wheeking as soon as I’m halfway up the steps), and dig in to the half-dozen or so freelance projects I’m juggling at any given time. Or I markup weekly online papers from 19 students I coach for an online writing curriculum.

While bouncing around those projects, I hit Facebook, check social media, update my blog, read writing-related blogs or posts, and generally give my eyes and brain a break. I am certain that there is a disorder called Project A.D.H.D., and that I should be the poster child. Too often, writing seems to fall last on the list of things to do, though I am finally starting to change even that. I find I have to put it smack in the middle of the day in order to be at my best. Mornings are unproductive for writing. Nights can be awesome, but my strange schedule of earlymorning breakfast duty and Wayne’s ever-morphing work schedule keep me from being the night owl I want to be. So, middle of the day works best ... and usually when I leave the house completely, so that I’m not tempted to do another load of laundry or check Facebook one more time. I have a few haunts that work well for writing outside the house, and I trade off among them. How did you first start out as a writer? My third grade teacher told me years ago that she still had a story I wrote for her back in 1969. Something about a horse, I think. That has to be the earliest piece of writing I remember. I realized I wanted to be a writer in sixth grade. By eighth grade I had tried to write my first novel (in one of those “blank book” journals that were just becoming popular back then). Naturally the characters all looked and acted like movie stars I liked or teachers I had crushes on. I still have that ridiculous thing, too. I should burn it. After high school, I went to Carnegie Mellon in Pittsburgh, majoring in creative/professional writing. By my second year, I’d gotten married, and my initial plans of switching to the drama department (I wanted to be a director at that point) fell by the wayside as the kids started coming along. I didn’t write much from that point on ... until I was pregnant with our third child and I was working the overnight shift as an on-call proofreader at a financial press. If we didn’t have any work, we didn’t have to pretend to look busy, so I asked permission to use the old IBM Selectric typewriter I’d seen sitting forlornly on a table in the hallway. I brought my own paper, and by the time I quit that job to have my baby, I had most of my first real novel written. Fast forward a bunch of years – a fourth child, back to having no time to write, then an unforeseen divorce, five years as a ridiculously poor single mom, then a lovely remarriage and the six kids thing in 1999. In 2000, my husband showed me an online writing contest that had several categories, including “Humor and Technology.” I threw together an essay and entered, and promptly forgot about it. Imagine my shock when, a few months later, they called the house to tell me I’d placed first and won $2,000! When I told my husband I’d won (through tears of shock and joy), he calmly said, “Of course you won. That’s why I mentioned it.” From that point on, it’s been really easy to call myself a writer. How does your Christian viewpoint affect your writing? I think it keeps me from writing some really horrific stuff. I toy with the idea of writing gory horror, pointless crazy stuff, and once in a while I have, though it sits on the computer going nowhere. 30

I’m not sure if I’m just working through something or if I let all those Stephen King novels rub off on me. Either way, my faith reins me in. And this year, for the first time, I’m working on a Christian allegory – it’s a little edgier than most might like for their allegories, but hey, I’m getting there. I’ve never felt comfortable writing blatant gospel-presenting fiction. I don’t think I could do it and sound genuine. It would always feel forced coming from me. But if I can capture readers who are looking for a few laughs, and who later on find out I’m a Christian, that’s okay. I’ll work it in there somewhere, even if it’s through interactions with them in other arenas. Since you've been on both sides of the desk, what can you tell other writers to do or not to do when sending in their work to editors and/or publishers? Learn your craft. That includes spelling and grammar – as much of it as you can absorb on your own. A carpenter wouldn’t say he doesn’t need to know how to use a hammer and saw, so why do so many writers think they don’t need to learn how to wield the tools of their trade, words and grammar? Beyond that, it is important also to learn how to use your word processor. Learn how to format properly, and how NOT to format or over-format your manuscript. Look professional. Don’t space over five or six times when you should be using the first-line indent feature. Don’t use Comic Sans 16-point when you should use Times New Roman 12-point. You can write your own stuff any way you want, but once you’re formatting for someone outside yourself, do it right. Some of this stuff sounds obvious, but trust me: To too many writers, it’s apparently not obvious at all. What made you want to be a writer? I have absolutely no idea. I just know that, by fifth grade, I owned my own typewriter, and by sixth grade, I knew I wanted to be a writer. By junior high, I was writing parodies of classic literature with some friends for English class. It was all downhill from there. What do you enjoy writing about? I love writing humor when something funny strikes me. And I love writing fiction when that tagline that gets the story moving is really itching to come out. Approximately how long does it take you to write a book? I’ve written pretty much one novel a year since 2004, the first year I did NaNoWriMo (National Novel Writing Month). I start that year’s novel in November, get that first 50,000 words out that month (as part of NaNoWriMo), and then try to finish the rest by the same time the next year. For a while that worked great! Jerry Jenkins’s Operation First Novel contest came around every year in October. For a bunch of years, I’d finish that NaNo novel and enter it in his contest. (Once I came in the top 20, and once I came in as a top-four runner-up!) 31

Lately I haven’t managed to finish the last few years’ worth of NaNo novels, but we’ve had a lot of upheavals: the big house move, trying to manage a new rental property, adding more freelance work to my day to cover new expenses, etc. It’s only now that I’m back to churning out new material and getting around to finishing older stuff again. Do you have a publisher, or are you self-published? I’m self-published right now. But I’m in a unique position: I’ve done prepress work since the late ‘80s, both typesetting and proofreading. So, self-publishing seemed like a better fit for me than for most people. The only thing I’ve had to hire out has been cover art and design, and I’ve had fun working with those people to get the book covers done. I certainly wouldn’t turn down a traditionally published contract, but I’m not desperate for it anymore. How did you find an illustrator? I went to Elance and was very clear about how I wrote up my proposal. I also took some advice from others who’d used the service, and I found a great cartoonist and a good cover designer. So far it’s worked out well, and the Elance process seems to protect everyone along the way. When your first book came out, how did you market it? Not well enough, I think, though both my humor books are in the black. I would like to do more marketing, but adding that into my day, with that Project A.D.H.D. thing, has been a lot tougher than I would have thought. It’s hard to make time for that when paying freelance work is staring me in the face. Or my husband needs clean work shirts. Or . . . Have you won any other writing awards? In addition to that first contest in 2000, I’ve won a tidy handful of awards at the St. David’s Writers’ Conference, as well as the Writing Success one-day conference in Mercer, Pa. As I mentioned, I’ve also placed twice in the Jerry Jenkins Operation First Novel contest. Then there was that limerick contest put on by a potato salad company that I won in eighth grade. (I won $10 each for two different limericks, and they put them on the local radio station in commercials.) I’m pretty proud of that one, in particular. What advice can you give new writers who have yet to be published? Keep plugging away at it. Never stop trying. Look into all your options in these changing days. Never think you are too good or in too big a hurry to need some sort of editor, copy editor or proofreader. Don’t skip any steps. Be professional. It may take longer to get there, but you’ll be taken a lot more seriously when you arrive. If you had one message to tell the world, what would it be? Always remember you’re unique . . . just like everyone else. Thank you for your time, Linda! The Ruby for Women team wishes you all the best.

http://lindamau.wordpress.com/ 32

The Good King He is the only king i know that gives the subjects of His kingdom free will to follow Him, and though He hopes you choose Him; He will never force your handâ&#x20AC;&#x201D; He is the only king i know that would send His only Son to die a cruel death on a cross to free His subjects of their sins to give them a place at His table; He is the king of glory, a God of mercyâ&#x20AC;&#x201D; but He is also the judge of the wicked, and the strength of Zion yet He gives us a choice doesn't crush us in His palm even though He easily could; i follow him because i chose Him, not because He put my arms in shackles and led me to His court, but because I want to see His face one day when all this world fades away because He is the only power that saves. Everything we know and love will fade away one day to be replaced by days of terror, but when they end He will be waiting for us; telling us to come to His table, but only if we choose to obey. - Linda M. Crate

we're all different Miracles happen and i see Jesus every day in the hearts of those who obey His word, Theyâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;re different and you can see it; sometimes i am jealous but He reminds me i can have just the same so i take a deep breath and remind myself that we all have different gifts and He is choosing to work through me as i work with Him and in His time; patience isn't my strength but i can give his mercy and encouragement, and i will always lend an ear to those that need someone to listen, and i won't judge because too many throw stones without listening; Jesus simply said to sin no more, and so i will not cast any stones because i know i have failed him; tooâ&#x20AC;&#x201D; i will simply help you any way i can, and when i see Jesus in you it makes my heart smile. There are too many devils in this world trying to steal your light away and they will if you let them, so don't you let them only allow Him to carry you when others can't - He is the only friend who will always be true, the only one who will never fail you. - Linda M. Crate

Stress: Itâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s a Killer! by Christie Workman It's been a very hectic and hairy couple of months for my family. I moved into a new home, launched a new business, and began schooling. All this came on top of a new relationship, tackling another full-time job and trying to still do the little things that have to be done each day. Needless to say, I have felt some stress. But as I crept closer to the breaking point one day recently, I remembered something my dad once said to me -- "Stress is only for those that can't handle their circumstances." Apparently, he thought I could handle my circumstances then and I bet he would say the same thing to me now. I, on the other hand, have some doubt about the simplicity behind my dad's advice. Circumstances can be intense and beyond our control. However, I have found that working to balance my mental, emotional and physical well-being is the best way to ensure I am equipped to deal with stress. Physically -- Am I getting enough sleep, eating healthy foods consistently and shedding excess stress and energy through exercise? When I don't sleep well, I respond to stress irrationally and out of emotion. When I fill up on carbs and caffeine, my blood sugar dips and dives and my mood follows right along. When I don't exercise, it all piles up and I toss and turn with so much on my mind.. then I don't sleep well and the whole cycle starts over again. Emotionally -- Do I have an emotional outlet, someone to talk to and a way to refill my person? Emotional outlets are important to keep from suffering emotional outbursts and breakdowns. I find that journaling helps relieve emotional pressure. You may choose to sing, cry, dance, or whatever is that release for you. Do it often, don't wait until you explode. Having that best friend and confidant is important. Share and share often. Refill your person with something that speaks to your soul. Maybe it's a bubble bath, a long walk, reading a book, spending some time alone. Whatever refills your soul is good and will keep you emotionally in check. Mentally -- Am I feeding my mind with positive messages and do I surround myself with positive people? Positive in means positive out. You become like the five people you hang around with the most. Therefore it is of the utmost importance that you avoid negative people who want to bring you down or have nothing positive to say. Remember that all three elements work together to create a healthier, happier you! Don't dismiss the simple steps -- they pack a powerful positive punch! 35

Joy and Peace by Brenda Diaz Summer is the best season of the year for me. The joy of the morning breeze, the brightness of the sun, and the warm feeling of the weather gives me a natural feeling of peace and joy; it simply puts a smile on my face. This is exactly the same feeling I receive when I’m communing with the Lord in prayer. When I first fell in love with the Lord, it happened at a youth retreat when I was a pre-teen. I remember, while in prayer and worship, the intense feeling that I had for the Lord. I remember it so clearly because it was a feeling that I had not ever experienced before and that was the beginning of my relationship with the Lord. My journey began wanting to know the Lord more intimately so I joined a religious organization with the intention of dedicating my life to the Lord and His service, but God’s ways are certainly mysterious because I was led in a different direction. Although my intentions were pure, my flesh was “unsaved” so I allowed myself to be led by what the world had to offer and the price was living a life that was no different than the people of Sodom and Gomorrah (who lived completely against the Lord’s commandments). And yet, how great God is because despite my pride and arrogance, He continued to love me despite me because He knew my heart and He knew that I would come back to Him it was just a matter of time. So at the height of my “success” in life, the Lord took everything away from me …my job, my money and my home. Losing everything gave me perspective. It brought me back to that relationship I had with Him as a young girl. I believe that when I lost everything that was the moment I was “saved”. I became a new person in Christ. “Therefore if any man be in Christ, he is a new creature: old things are passed away; behold, all things are become new.” 2 Corinthian 5:17 The Lord constantly loving me has guided me to choose to follow Him. Making the conscious decision to be obedient to the Lord has brought me a real sense of freedom and peace that no person, place or thing can ever take away from me. The Christian walk for me has not been (and continues not to be) easy because I’m in a constant state of “being emptied” through suffering. And yet, how glorious those sufferings that give me the strength I need to rise above my humanity and grow in spiritual maturity. At the end of the day what’s most important is prayer. It is the key to my walk toward living the life of Jesus. How awesome to have a God who loves me the way He does. He truly is the joy and peace of my life … my summer! All Praise and Glory to You, My Lord!!!!

Build a Better Burger from the Outdoor Kitchen of Katherine’s Corner Now that summer is officially here, Katherine has some grilling tips that will assure you the best burger in the neighborhood! Check out her other cooking tips and recipes at Katherine’s Corner. •

Always grill on a clean grill. Use a stiff wire brush to clean your grill. Wipe clean and then heat your grill while you prepare the meat.

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Try to avoid extremely lean ground beef. Use 80/20burger, it’s perfect on the grill - Low fat beef may dry out while grilling. Ground sirloin is our favorite.

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Seasoning- this is all you! Season your meat well using your favorite seasoning mixture. We use a simple mixture of equal parts garlic powder, onion powder and black pepper mostly.

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Score your meat in the bowl - to keep all of your burgers equal sizes. I mix the burger meat in a large bowl and then using the side of my hand I score the meat into equal sections. Then scoop out the meat in equal portions (about the size of a tennis ball) to create the burger patties. Don’t make your patties too thin (don’t press them flat) Use your hands to “mold” a nice burger shape.

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Divot your burger patty- press a thumb print into the center of the patty (do not go all the way through, only about half way through) this will help to avoid thin edges on your burger. As the burger “shrinks” during grilling the meat will be drawn into the center. This also allows for even cooking. The little divot is great for holding your condiments too.

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Grill your burger with the barbecue lid open/off- you must keep a close watch while grilling burgers. Do not toss on the grill and walk away!

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DO NOT flatten your burgers with a spatula while you are grilling- this squishes out all of the juices that make your burger flavorful and thick.

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Flip -You only need to flip your burger once. Flip when you see the juices starting to pool on the top. Grills have varying temperatures so I can’t say for certain how long this will take for you. It takes about 4 minutes for our grill. Flip and cook for a remaining 4-5 minutes.

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Use a meat thermometer- food safety is a must - use the meat thermometer to make sure your meat reaches 160°.

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Add the Cheese - if you are a cheeseburger fan this is when you do need to close the lid. Place your cheese on the patties and close the lid for about 30 seconds and that should be plenty of time to melt the cheese.

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Rest - let your burgers rest on a plate for about 5 minutes before serving-this lets the juices settle and gives you plenty of time to prepare your buns, too. 37

Happy Thoughts Double Puzzle by Beth Brubaker

ANSWER KEY ON PAGE 84.

Visit Beth Brubaker at her blog, Footprints in the Mud, to read her humorous and inspirational articles on family life, parenting, and her adventures as a Christian 38 wife and mother.

Get Creative! Celebrate Every Day! Fun and crafty ideas for parties, showers, and family gatherings from Emilee at the bird and the bicycle When we discovered Emilee’s blog, the bird and the bicycle, we knew immediately that you would love to see her crafty, creative ideas for a baby shower that she hosted for one of her teacher friends. These ideas are not only great for a baby shower, but with very few modifications, these same celebration ideas would work for any other family or friend get-together you might be planning. Lots of creative inspiration here!

Gorgeous color combination! Coral, mint, and gray all come together in a sweet confection of decorations. The table features tissue paper “puff” balls . . . . .

and this simple yet adorable pinwheel in a Mason jar adds the perfect little touch of whimsy.

Across the front of the table Emilee hung this hand-crafted, color-coordinated pennant banner featuring Baby Mayzie’s name.

An adorable stuffed animal is riding high on a cute little “car” with“wheels” made of rolls of diapers all wrapped up with ribbon.

Emilee made this lovely baby quilt with each piece reflecting the triangular pennant shape used in the banner in the color theme of coral, mint, and gray. Visit Emilee at the bird and the bicycle to see all of the other creative and crafty ideas for this baby shower. Then go on and plan your own summer celebration party! Thank you Emilee for sharing your photos and party ideas with all of us here at Ruby for Women.

Selfish Ambition by Donna Comeaux

Selfish Ambition is a new novel by Donna Comeaux, which is scheduled to be published beginning this fall in the Ruby for Women magazine. Below is the synopsis of Donna’s novel, along with a Middle Eastern recipe for you to try while you await the beginning chapters. We look forward to sharing Selfish Ambition with the readers of Ruby for Women. Shortly after Sherelle Lindsey transmits her dissertation to the head of the Journalism Department at the American University in Cairo (“AUC”), a bomb blasts through her classroom. When she wakes, she’s tied to a chair and wonders if she’s been captured by the Egyptian Army, Egyptian Police, or terrorists. To her surprise, she’s been rescued by Army Special Forces, and Major Laurence “Lennie” Williams is responsible for saving her. How does she thank this wounded soldier? Betrayal. When she and her staff are pressured to come up with fresh stories for the newspaper, she is tempted to expose secrets she found in Major Williams’ apartment concerning an assassination attempt on a European target. Twisted by her aspirations to become editor-inchief, her moral values, and her growing love for Major Williams, Sherelle struggles to come clean.

However, rescuing Sherelle Lindsey out of Cairo ends his career. Losing his wings devastates him until he later encounters this lovely beauty on a Washington, D.C. train. It doesn’t take Lennie long to know he’s in love. But are they compatible? He comes from a large family and is looking forward to starting one of his own. She’s an only child and too self-absorbed and ambitious in her pursuit of landing an editor-in-chief position. Though Lennie can’t explain it, he’s certain God put them together. As a matter of fact, he believes unequivocally that Sherelle saved him instead of the other way around. But can he convince her of that? Or has he misinterpreted God’s message?

Will she choose to ruin Major Williams’ career or will she choose truth and love?

Selfish Ambition is written from both characters’ point of view and makes you a part of the riveting emotional highs and lows of a young couple’s aim to find meaning in life.

For Major Williams, rescuing someone from the throes of danger was not only his job, but also the adrenaline rush he needed to survive a lonely life.

Be sure to watch for the autumn issue of Ruby for Women, where you will be able to read the beginning chapters of Selfish Ambition by 41 Donna Comeaux.

Eggah An Egyptian Breakfast Recipe from Donna Comeaux Eggah is a traditional egg dish in Middle Eastern cuisine, similar to an omelet, made with eggs and stuffed with vegetables and sometimes meat, and cooked until completely firm. It is usually served sliced into rectangles or wedges, and can be served either hot or cold. It is a favorite picnic dish. What you need: • • • • • •

5 eggs Large bunch of leaf parsley, washed and finely chopped 1 onion, chopped Salt and pepper, to taste 2 Tbsp. butter 1 Tbsp. flour

Let’s make it! •

Melt half the butter in a frying pan over low heat, add onion and fry for 5 minutes until caramelized.

•

Add parsley and flour and stir for 1-2 minutes. Remove from heat.

•

In a bowl beat the eggs and season with salt and pepper. Add onion and parsley mixture and stir well to combine.

•

Heat a little butter in a fry pan and pour in a third of the egg mixture. Cook until the bottom is golden before flipping over to cook the other side. Repeat with the remaining egg mixture.

•

This is great served hot with feta cheese and fresh Lebanese bread. Serves: 3 You can also watch the video of making this recipe at: http://dynasegyptiancooking.blogspot.com/2013/09/breakfas t-omelette-mediterranean-way.html

Finding and Giving by Sharon L. Patterson I’ve found a prize beyond worth’s part But the cost has been the surrender of my hurting heart. In the beginning, I would never have guessed what it would take. But now, I know the difference in life it can make. So special this treasure, I chose to gain, It gives inescapable joy and heals unbearable pain. Encased in its richness is that of which it is made, love for which kings a ransom would have paid. Once in grasp I could not set it on a forgotten self, For it has required attention from my innermost self. To gain its wealth, there’s been no huge demand or expensive token, Just three words, “I forgive you” intentionally spoken. Here is the story, about which I write, and share, if I might of the journey on which I set out to find balm for my hurt and peace of mind. The process has been life-long, learning to say, “Forgive me” when I am wrong, and even when I am not, to say that I choose to forgive others anyway. Forgiving things that were justified was not so difficult when I tried; but the hardest concerned cruelty’s intended trick, the kind that turns your insides sick. I was a child at whom others poked fun, about the way I played ball, or the way I would run. As a teen I often found myself in a triangle of friends Yet they preferred each other’s company, often leaving me out in the end. Alone and sad I was left to ponder what about me must be so bad to cause others to leave me out. My, could I ever pout! Oh, the tears I shed upon my martyr’s bed. Then, late at night, while in prayer, I found a Heavenly Father who cared. From Him I learned to deal with hurt and unforgiveness over which I churned. It was easy, too, when unknowingly I caused hurt, as the times, when not thinking, out loud I would blurt 43

Something I didn’t mean to say like, “Why on earth are your wearing THAT today?” But as hurts piled up, the temptation was there to become anguished and encased in despair. A root of bitterness started to grow and I could no longer hide the ugly fruit that began to show. I cast blame all too easily on others, including my father, my sisters, and even my mother. Even a harness came to my face as lines of harshness replaced the freshness that smiles once brought. I felt it was the other person who ought to say, “I’m sorry, please forgive me for causing you such hurt and injury.” The first step of my journey was not so hard; I simply had to cross the yard and extend my apology to a friend I hurt unwillingly. The second step was more of a cost to wait and hope I had not lost the friend I so loved and admired. for truly I desired her forgiving heart. But oh, the smart when she chose to fully close our friendship of many years. Unaccountable, my tears. The greatest cost to my heart nearly ripped it apart for it was from the love of my life. The hurt was like a twisting knife cutting the very life out of me. It almost blinded my ability to see the great lessons learned from those earlier sessions. At that moment, I had to choose to let go and fully lose my hurt, guilt, and unbearable pain that I might be able to love again. I went back to the source from where I learned; I talked to God who was totally concerned with what was happening in my heart’s recesses Where anger and hurt had made their messes. He reminded me of his Son who suffered undeserved hurt so much. No wonder that Jesus alone can touch the pain for which there seems no cure. I said, “Yes” to His love, so warm and sure. And as I forgave, it reached past my brokenness. restoring a heart in pieces with His wholeness. That day I understood that forgiveness is not just for the receiving. Forgiveness brought me life, when I did the giving. As each stage of anger and revenge I released My heart began to increase, and I discovered once again love had become its own dividend.

Make Your Own Giant Paper Pinwheels Tutorial by Melissa of Lulu the Baker This tutorial for Giant Paper Pinwheels was featured at Katherine’s Corner, so we asked permission from Melissa of Lulu the Baker if we could share it with you, the readers of Ruby for Women. We are so grateful to Melissa for her generosity in allowing us to share this tutorial for Giant Paper Pinwheels with you. Please visit Melissa of Lulu the Baker for more creative and inspirational posts, recipes, and craft projects. Materials: • • • • • • • •

12″ square scrapbooking paper, heavy weight, with prints on both sides 3/8″ x 36″ wood dowels Ruler Pencil Scissors thumb tacks a small hole punch a hammer (optional) 45

Steps: 1. Using the ruler, find and mark the very center of a piece of scrapbooking paper. 2. Line the ruler up from the center point to one corner of the paper. Draw a straight line from the center to the corner, making a small mark 3 inches away from the center. Repeat with the other 3 corners.

3. Using the scissors, cut carefully from each corner toward the center, stopping at the small mark you made 3 inches from the center. 4. Using the pencil, poke a hole through the center point. 5. Using the hole punch, punch a small hole in either the left or right half of each corner. Be consistent. Poke holes on either each left half, or each right half. 6. Using a thumb tack, poke a hole about 1/2â&#x20AC;ł from one end of a wood dowel. 7. Thread each corner of the paper with a hole poked in it onto the thumb tack, then put the thumb tack through the center hole in the paper, and then push it into the hole you poked in the dowel. 8. Push the other end of the dowel into the ground, using a hammer to gently tap the top of the dowel if necessary. All done!

That Awkward Phase by Cindy Bailey

A middle-aged actress, apparently feeling a little neglected, recently complained, “Women over 50 become invisible.” Well, I get what she means and have certainly experienced that, but lately I’ve been pretty good at making a spectacle of myself. Depending on your own age, you may either smile, or smirk and roll your eyes at these frequent embarrassing moments when I found myself... ... trying to change the TV channel with my phone or answer the phone with the remote. ...putting a quart of milk in the microwave. ...trying to warm my bowl of soup in the refrigerator. ...referring to Annie as Julie and Julie as Annie or running through the whole list of Julie, Ann, Rob, Ned, before getting to the right one. ...getting my trifocals out of alignment and hitting all the wrong notes on the piano. At church. On Sunday morning. ...incessantly concerning myself (and everyone in hearing distance) with the whereabouts of my keys, purse, phone, coffee cup; fretting over where they are and what they’re doing without me like I used to worry over my girls as toddlers. ...walking around wearing two different shoes, my shirt inside out or backwards, or sporting only one earring (I’m old fashioned; I usually wear TWO, one on each earlobe). Makes me think of how hard I laughed at my mother once because she was walking around with one of the lenses missing from her sunglasses. I’m still laughing about it as I write this, though I feel a chill in the air. I think maybe God is paying me back now. I’ve been known to parade around with a large blob of something I just ate on the front of a white blouse, completely oblivious. It reminds me of this commercial where every time this guy tried to say something, the stain on his tie started mocking him. I used to think that was so funny, but now I pity the poor guy because he did not know where the voice came from. 47

These days, I don’t know where the voices are coming from, either. People are increasingly offering me Kleenex and gum when I’m talking to them. Is it only kindness or is there a hunk of steak on my eyetooth? However bleak it all seems, misery is the spurious tie that binds. I just got off the phone with the church treasurer, also a woman of a certain age. I couldn’t remember if she paid me for last month and she couldn’t remember which “safe place” she put the check. We laughed about it, both secretly relieved that we’re in the same leaky boat. Some medical professional may be reading this, thinking I should be tested for whatever is ailing me, after which he/she could diagnose my condition. But I’ve come to my own scientific conclusion that middle age is the annoying bridge between those olden days when people excused your guffaws because of your youth/inexperience and those golden years when they overlook things because of your age/senility. In other words, there IS no excuse for the middle-aged. People rarely offer you their seat on a crowded bus or allow you to go ahead of them in the grocery line. After all, you might give them a black eye for drawing attention to how old you are. Anyhow, you wouldn’t feel right accepting the offer. It certainly is an awkward phase. And yet. Though I’m without excuse and lately feel like I’m at the back of the bus, I take hope in the story of Jesus simmering his disciples down by telling them that when it’s all said and done, the last shall be FIRST. And I find comfort in those verses that say God welcomes us ALL, male, female, Jew, Gentile, whatever... although I’m not seeing anything specific about people with mismatched shoes or an irrational fear of losing their phone.

Visit Cindy’s Wind at www.cindyswind.blogspot.com

www.GreeneSpeak.com 48

Generations The day I found out Grandpa was dying, I sat, stunned, on the phone. He had been there all my life, watching me as I've grown... My thoughts began to drift . . . remembering a tender time. I could still see the picture kept quietly in my mind. Dad and I were visiting, having driven up to be near. We found Grandpa a little grieved about the growing hair in his ear. My dad, timid and tall, sat close on the sofa seat, delicate at these new duties but willing to tackle the feat. I watched in childlike curiosity at the sweetness of the sight; my dad with such small scissors gently trying to do it right . . . Grandpa sat rather straight in full faith of his serving son, knowing he was in helping hands and the job would get done. Two grown men whom I cherished for many special years suddenly seemed frail, fragile, and it moved me to almost tears. I wondered if one day my big brother would do this for dad, and repeat this loving act of kindness just like my father had . . . The two of them were wrapping up (the scissors went snip, snip) and I felt deeply fortunate to witness the final and caring clip, clip. 49 by Cindy J. Evans

“Beautiful Chaos” by Connie Chandler "Chaos" seems to be our buzz word when it comes to anything related to Youth Night, a weekly teen program I coordinate at a local ministry in Fort Wayne. Whether it involves shaving cream, mousetraps, toilet plungers, lollipops, or basketballs, we always laugh and shake our heads in the end, repeating our most commonly used phrase: “Why did we think that was a good idea?!” Some weeks I think the leaders have a good grasp on what is happening, but most of the time, the moment the kids come in the door, I can feel the chaos rising. Everyone is talking at top volume at once, everyone is moving at top speed at once, and energy levels are so electric that our group of thirty kids could light up the city of Fort Wayne. That kind of energy is hard to find in the American church and in your average Joe-Christian, and I've seen it often frowned upon as reckless behavior that needs to be controlled or contained. But I don't think that's the heart of God - I think he actually creates that energy and allows certain chaos to ensue in order to express how wild and uninhibited is his joy and love for us. I think the true challenge of leaders (and parents) who are invested in teenagers is not to calm them down, but to find out how to channel their energy into good things, things that will positively impact the kids themselves and change the world for the better... things that bring glory to God. In the midst of chaos, the students manage to get their homework done, we get to have great group discussions with the boys and girls separately, they listen to some good music, we play some fun games, and after we lavish hugs and words of encouragement on them, they pile back in the cars, knowing - KNOWING - they are truly loved. In the midst of chaos, they experience Jesus walking with them through math problems, listening to and valuing their opinions, running around a field playing soccer, laughing with them and sharing life to know them more personally, wrapping his arm around their shoulders and telling them they are amazing. Probably any random stranger who peeks in through the window of our ministry house on a Thursday night would shake their head at the obvious ruckus and volume. But even in the midst of that beautiful chaos, God - in all his crazy love - is there. 50

The Deer’s Cry by Rhea Riddle I am standing in the dappled shade of shallow woods. Through the low-hanging branches, I see diamond-like sparkles as ripplets bounce off the partially submerged sand rock in the creek. It slowly winds its way, in no hurry to join a rushing river. I am still…barely breathing; I ignore the tickle by the side of my nose. My elbow is nudging the scaly sycamore, and it holds me steady as I lean toward the scene before me. A young doe is inching her way down the steep bank in this very early morning. She sniffs the air, checking for signs; she slowly turns her head toward me. We are each captured by the others stare, I blink; she is released and turns away; her safety is assured; the water calls and she continues on her downward way. I ponder as sleep evaporates; the dream loses its grasp, and I awaken. This morning, in the aftermath of the vision (?), an old Celtic praise song is compelling me to worship, along the way it leads me to scripture: "As the deer pants for streams of water, so my soul pants for you, my God. My soul thirsts for God, for the living God." Psalms 42:1-2a (NIV) God uses the gentle deer and all nature to bring glory to himself. The background story goes: Saint Patrick composed this powerful prayer in the year 433. He was aware that there was an ambush to try to kill him and his group en route to the King's court. It was during the march that they chanted the sacred Lorica, or The Deer's Cry - later known as St. Patrick's Breastplate. (Ephesians 6: 10-18) As the druids lay in hiding, ready to kill, they saw not Patrick and his men, but a gentle doe followed by twenty fawns. St. Patrick and his men were saved. So, I seek the words and melody that dwell in the chant (transformed to music) of an ancient Irish saint. With modern technology, I find it; I care not that it is delivered on the edge of the unknown. I just give myself to it and allow worship to wash through my ears to the heart of me. In my spirit, I stand with one foot in heaven and in the flesh; one foot is under my computer desk. I praise along with the moving melody, and desire God's protection and presence. "Hear my cry too oh Lord, just as you hear… " 51

"The Deer's Cry." I arise today through the strength of heaven Light of sun, radiance of moon Splendor of fire, speed of lightning Swiftness of wind, depth of the sea Stability of earth, firmness of rock

These words astound me, he is in all nature; he protects, uses, surrounds and blesses me with all he is. "I arise today, through God's strength to pilot me: God's might to uphold me, God's wisdom to guide me, God's eye to look before me, God's ear to hear me, God's word to speak for me, God's hand to guard me, God's way to lie before me, God's shield to protect me, God's host to secure me: against snares of devils, against temptations of vices, against inclinations of nature, against everyone who shall wish me ill, afar and a near, alone and in a crowd." The rendition is hauntingly beautiful; it causes to me be aware; all Godly attributes are blessings, and all nature has God in its heart. God can speak through all he has made or breathed into existence, as man and nature respond. Psalms 19:37-40 "Right at the crest, where Mount Olives begins its descent, the whole crowd of disciples burst into enthusiastic praise over all the mighty works they had witnessed: Blessed is he who comes, the king in God’s name! All’s well in heaven! Glory in the high places! Some Pharisees from the crowd told him, “Teacher, get your disciples under control!” But he said, “If they kept quiet, the stones would do it for them, shouting praise.” (The Message) And there is more… Psalms 19:1-4 (CEV) “The heavens keep telling the wonders of God and the skies declare what he has done. Each day informs the following day; each night announces to the next. They don’t speak a word, and there is never the sound of a voice. Yet their message reaches all the earth, and it travels around the world.” The refrain picks up its intensity. It moves and rolls like a rip tide throwing the ocean to the shoreline and dragging everything back to bury in the deeps…it reflects the never-ending strength of our heavenly Father to protect his own. Again, nature speaks of him. "Christ to protect me today, Christ with me, Christ before me, Christ behind me, Christ in me, Christ beneath me, Christ above me, Christ on my right, Christ on my left, Christ in breadth, Christ in length, Christ in height, Christ in the heart of every man who thinks of me, Christ in the mouth of every man who speaks of me, Christ in every eye that sees me, Christ in every ear that hears me." We are well covered to live this day, the deer and I. Ah, Amen. 52

More Summer Salsa Recipes from All Around the Blogosphere by Vintage Mama Strawberry Salsa has so many variations! In our journeys around the blogosphere, searching for fun summer recipes to share with you, we discovered salsa recipes that are sweet and spicy, with so many different combinations that we just had to share them all with you. All images and recipes are from the linked blogs, where you can find complete recipe directions and lots of other great summer recipe ideas. This first recipe for Strawberry Salsa is from One Hundred Dollars a Month, and it is sweet, spicy, and simple to make, and it looks so pretty in the sparkling white bowl, served with cinnamon chips. Ingredients • 2 1/2 cups fresh strawberries, chopped fresh • 1 cup red pepper, chopped • 1 green onion, chopped • 1/4 cup spinach, sliced thin • 1/4 cup Kraft raspberry poppy seed vinaigrette dressing • 1/8 teaspoon ground pepper • bag of tortilla chips or a box of fancy crackers Directions Toss everything in a bowl, mix well and refrigerate for 2 hours. Serve with tortilla chips or fancy crackers. This recipe for Strawberry Salsa is from Stacey at Real House Moms, and it includes chopped tomato and cilantro. A nice variation on a summer recipe that is fresh, healthy, and tasty! Ingredients • 1½ cups fresh strawberries, chopped • 1½ cups red pepper, chopped • 1 cup green pepper, chopped • 1 cup tomato, seeded and chopped • ¼ cup Anaheim pepper, seeded and chopped • 2 tbsp. fresh cilantro, minced • ½ tsp salt • ¼ tsp pepper • ½ tsp crushed red pepper flakes • 2 tbsp. + 2 tsp honey • 2 tbsp. lemon juice Combine all ingredients together in a bowl, mix well, and serve chilled over fish or chicken, or with cinnamon chips or crackers. 53

Strawberry Mango Salsa from Nichole at Capture the Moment INGREDIENTS: • Carton of red, ripe strawberries • One perfectly ripe mango • Fresh mint • Homemade-style vanilla ice cream INSTRUCTIONS: 1. Finely chop strawberries & mango. Mix in small bowl. Chill for at least 2 hours to allow flavors to meld. 2. To serve, scoop vanilla ice cream into serving dishes. Add 2-3 spoonfuls of salsa on top. Garnish with mint sprig.

Annie’s Fruit Salsa and Cinnamon Chips from All Recipes This summer salsa recipe features lots of different fruits, along with directions for making those yummy Cinnamon Chips that are perfect with all of the fruit salsa recipes. Check out All Recipes for more summer salad and dessert recipes! Ingredients: • • • • •

2 kiwis, peeled and diced 2 Golden Delicious apples – peeled, cored and diced 8 ounces raspberries 1 pound strawberries 2 Tbsp. white sugar

• • • • •

1 Tbsp. brown sugar 3 Tbsp. fruit preserves, any flavor 10 (10”) flour tortillas Butter flavored cooking spray 2 Tbsp. cinnamon sugar

Directions: 1. In a large bowl, thoroughly mix kiwis, Golden Delicious apples, raspberries, strawberries, white sugar, brown sugar and fruit preserves. Cover and chill in the refrigerator at least 15 minutes. 2. Preheat oven to 350 degrees F (175 degrees C). 3. Coat one side of each flour tortilla with butter flavored cooking spray. Cut into wedges and arrange in a single layer on a large baking sheet. Sprinkle wedges with desired amount of cinnamon sugar. Spray again with cooking spray. 4. Bake in the preheated oven 8 to 10 minutes. Repeat with any remaining tortilla wedges. Allow to cool approximately 15 minutes. Serve with chilled fruit mixture. 54

Material or Spiritual? by Lanette Kissel We can choose to live in a material world where we're all about acquiring more stuff. That choice will leave us feeling empty, for that life will never offer us enough. Or we can choose to live in a spiritual world with God the Father as its center, and live our lives according to His will, having His Son, Jesus as our mentor. We can spend our money on the trappings created to entice all the women and men. Or we can choose to extend God's borders by wisely offering Him the required ten. Life shouldn't be about what we've got, but more about what we can give that can help to further the cause for Christ, so others can learn how to joyfully live.

Come Back to Me by Lanette Kissel Your righteous anger can be heard in the beginning crash of thunder. As You view this world's wicked, wanton ways, Your wrath splits the heavens asunder. In the gentle pelting drops of rain, man can feel Your sorrowful tears, as You watch Your people turn away from You, all the more so in recent years. With every breath that You exhale, a soft breeze ripples through the air. Your gentle reminder says, "Come back to Me." "I love you and I will always be there."

Getting to Know the Ruby Writers! Interview with Lynn Mosher by Beth Brubaker Beth: Good morning Lynn! Let's start off with an easy question â&#x20AC;&#x201C; When did you become a Christian? Lynn: Being born into a Christian family, I grew up in the Baptist church. I sang in the youth choir (though I couldn't sing), attended Sunday School, went to church on Wednesday and Sunday nights, though my friend and I sometimes skipped and walked down to the neighborhood drugstore until church was over. However, I committed my heart and sins to the Lord in the summer of 1957 when I was eleven years old and my parents took me on vacation to New York City to attend one of Billy Graham's renowned crusades. Beth: And how long have you been a writer? Lynn: In June of 2000, I was diagnosed with Fibromyalgia. In February 2001, the Lord whispered into my heart to write for Him. Me? Write, Lord? I was skeptical; He was resolute! He led me to write a book I titled Ready or not...Here I Come! It's been a long road and publication should be this summer, as it is stalled right now. He also led me to start a blog and write for many sites. It's all his doing. My passion is now obedience to His call, as well as encouraging and uplifting others - and giving Him all the glory! Beth: You mentioned being diagnosed with Fibromyalgia. Can you explain what that is and how it affects your family life and writing? Lynn: Oh my! To give you a list of all the symptoms would make this a very long answer! In short, it is similar to Chronic Fatigue Syndrome, except the two main symptoms are reversed. Fibromyalgia is characterized by overall chronic, deep body pain and fatigue - it can be disabling. Other symptoms include difficulty in concentration (fibro-fog), headaches, depression, dizziness, and short term memory lapses, as well as sensitivity to light, smell, touch, cold, sound, chemicals, and even weather changes. Arthritis and irritable bowel syndrome are also symptoms. Good sound sleep is rare. When I was first diagnosed, I thought I would be in a wheelchair the rest of my life â&#x20AC;&#x201C; but the Lord allowed some healing to take place. My family has been overwhelmingly supportive. In the beginning, I missed numerous family gatherings, even many Thanksgivings and Christmases. However, now I'm able to attend a majority of the time, even though I am mainly housebound. Writing becomes extremely difficult some days when fibro-fog rolls in. the words do not flow; they ooze out like molasses. Having holes in my memory is extremely embarrassing and frustrating and is definitely a drawback when writing. 57

Beth: What are your favorite things to write about? Lynn: Anything that involves my faith in the Lord and anything He tells me to write. I love bringing New Testament stories to life, allowing readers to feel as if they are right there. Beth: What interested you in writing for Ruby for Women? Lynn: Well, there's a hole-in-the-memory for you - I haven't a clue! I started writing for Ruby before Nina became Senior Editor. I'm sure it was a God-thing. Beth: Where else do you write? Lynn: Weekly at: Crossreads (http://crossreads.com/) Monthly at: The M.O.M. Initiative (http://www.themominitiative.com/) Living Better at 50 (http://livingbetter50.com/) Power to Change (http://powertochange.com/) Daily Signs of Hope (http://dailysignsofhope.com/) Quarterly at: Upgrade With Dawn (http://upgradewithdawn.com/) and of course, Ruby for Women! Beth: Can you tell us a little about your book, Ready or Not, Here I Come? Lynn: Based on the sacred, ancient Hebrew betrothal tradition, the book contains twelve chapters that escort the reader to a personal journey of discovery, insight, and inspiration. Each chapter presents biblical history and ancient customs and mingles them with modern day applications, providing a journey to completeness in Christ. This handbook holds profound, spiritual significance for those believing in the coming Messiah, revealing how to live the Bride-kind of life until the bridegroom returns. Hiding behind the hands of time, Jesus is waiting...waiting to say to His anxious Bride and Church, “Ready or not...here I come!” Beth: Are you working on any other books at the moment? Lynn: I am. I'm working on one temporarily entitled The Journey: The Road Home. It encourages Christians in their path through life as they encounter heartaches, trials, losses, etc., on their pilgrimage to their eternal Home with the Lord. Beth: if there was one thing you would like our readers to know about you, what would it be? Lynn: Wow! At first, I thought this was a difficult question. My answer can only be this: that I love the Lord with all my heart, soul, and strength, that praising Him and glorifying Him in all I say, do, and am is my highest effort - and being obedient to his call in my life. Beth: Thank you so much for your thoughts Lynn! We here at Ruby for Women are truly blessed by your writing! Lynn: Thank you so much Beth. And I pray God's blessings on all who contribute to make Ruby a blessing to others!

58 To read Lynn’s inspirational posts, please visit her blog at www.lynnmosher.com

Through a Mist of Care by Lynn Mosher “Come to Me, all of you who are weary and carry heavy burdens, and I will give you rest.” (Matt. 11:28 NLT) “Come to Me…” Do we heed those words? Do we go to the Lord to drop all our burdens at His feet? Or do we usually carry those heavy loads all by ourselves or lay them on a friend? Or do we give them to the Lord and, then, snatch them back again? Peter said, “Let Him have all your worries and cares, for He is always thinking about you and watching everything that concerns you.” (1 Peter 5:7 TLB) “…all of you who are weary…” Don’t we weary ourselves with worries, even though Jesus gave the command to “not worry about your life”? (Matt. 6:25a NIV) You know how the dictionary defines worry, don’t you? To torment oneself with or suffer from disturbing thoughts, fret, or be in a state of anxiety and uncertainty over actual or potential problems. Hmmm…actual or potential problems. How often do we torment ourselves by fretting over those problems, whether real or the imagined what-ifs? Instead of focusing on the Lord, we permit those worries to divert our focus, causing ourselves more anxiety. “…and carry heavy burdens…” We load ourselves down, and then, what happens? David said, “Therefore my spirit is overwhelmed within me; my heart within me is distressed.” (Ps. 143:4 NKJV) Overwhelmed is defined as to envelop oneself, be feeble or faint, or grow weak. Distressed is defined as to be desolate, grow numb, appalled, devastated, ravaged. 59

David said he was overwhelmed and distressed because “the enemy has persecuted my soul.” (Ps. 143:3a NKJV) Sometimes, we walk around hunched over like a question mark, bent from the burdens we let the enemy pile on us. Allowing worries, whether real or imagined, to envelop us produces a mist of care, concealing our view of our precious Lord. Our path becomes fogged, our spirit suffers, our prayer languishes, and our relationship with the Lord deteriorates. Jesus said, “Will all your worries add a single moment to your life?” No, of course not. “So don’t be anxious about tomorrow.” (Matt. 6:27 TLB, Matt. 6:34a TLB) “…and I will give you rest.” Rest. Refreshment. Such as, “He leads me beside the still waters. He restores my soul.” (Ps. 23:2b-3a NKJV) When we keep our minds focused on the Lord, “[He] will keep in perfect peace all who trust in [Him], all whose thoughts are fixed on [Him]!” (Isa. 26:3 NLT) Do we fix our thoughts on Him or on our worries and cares? Do we release our grasp on them to receive what He offers us? No godly soul ever grew in intimacy with the Lord or gained spiritual sight of His presence by carrying a load of burdens or worries. When difficulties blur our vision of our Beloved, we relinquish the very thing we seek: hearing the whispers of His heart, feeling the comfort of His arms, and knowing the peace of His nearness. Therefore, “Don’t worry about anything; instead, pray about everything; tell God your needs, and don’t forget to thank Him for His answers.” (Phil. 4:6 TLB) Is there a mist of care obstructing your view of your Beloved? Walk through that mist of care and you will see the image of your Beloved with His outstretched arms. Drop your burdens there at His feet. And He will say to you… “Come to Me…and I will give you rest.”

Invitation to the Kitchen Table by Sharon L. Patterson There is a place that is as clear in my memory today as it was when I was a child. I sat there daily some eighteen years before leaving home. We shared many things as a family at that 1950’s chrome kitchen table. Stories were shared along with some of the best cooking ever produced in a cast iron skillet. Correction was made there and it might be before or after Mama’s chocolate sheath cake if my father thought my sisters or I might need it.

“Stories were shared along with some of the best cooking ever produced in a cast iron skillet. Correction was made there and it might be before or after Mama’s chocolate sheath cake if my father thought my sisters or I might need it.”

Life poured out right alongside the milk in our glasses. We were family. There were differences of opinion to be sure, but honor was given where honor was due. Yes, it is a place from then that I can share with you now. I’d like to invite you to the kitchen table. Let’s bring our differing opinions and subject them to minds filled with principles yet open to hear one another. We are still family. I fear we have lost honor for one another because all I seem to hear anymore is one voice drowning out the other in such acrid tones of its own view that the other cannot be heard. Goodness knows we are not all right and we are not all wrong. We have lost our vision of the people, by the people, and for the people. Somehow we have changed that to: of the individual, by the individual, and for the individual. If I remember my history correctly, that can only lead to anarchy. Surely we are not helpless dependents needing to nurse continually at the breast of government, nor are we so self-reliant that we do not need to help one another when needs are greater than provision. What incredible family history we have. We are a rowdy bunch, but we have been able to resolve our differing issues. Remember those who sacrificed lives? They never waited around to be given life. 61

They jumped in with whatever they had. Landed gentlemen fought alongside farmers and then when we won our independence, debated long and hard on how we would rule ourselves. No one would have complete power. It would be spread in different branches with checks and balances. Yes, they gathered around tables and they talked with one another even as the arguments grew heated. But they did not leave until issues were resolved. How I wish we could do that just like my personal family did when we gathered at the kitchen table. We did not need polls to determine where we were or where we were going. In common language, face to face, we shared and we solved many things. Maybe, there is still timeâ&#x20AC;Śat the kitchen table.

â&#x20AC;&#x153;Yes, they gathered around tables and they talked with one another even as the arguments grew heated. But they did not leave until issues were resolved.â&#x20AC;?

remembering laughter by Linda M. Crate we sit in our glass houses hoping we won't break as we throw our stones judging away when we have no right when you laugh at your enemy people don't realize it makes you no better than them, and i'm so sick of the cookie cutter mold the world uses trying to cut me into their image; would much rather be a daughter of God than a child of satan because lies punch holes in the happiness of your future, but the truth preserves your life so i thought i'd rather be different than to fit itâ&#x20AC;&#x201D; everyone's dining on their sorrows, and misery loves company but i rather find joy in simple things remember laughter in my soul.

the truest friend by Linda M. Crate my knight in shining armor - has scars in His hands wore a crown of thorns - died for my sins, and He doesn't ride a white horse, but the powdered ivory feathers of clouds He forgives me when i find it difficult to forgive myself, and you don't need anyone to complete you because He made you complete on your own; so don't feel sad if you are without a spouse because He is always there, and He will never fail you— you can be beautiful and alone there is no shame in that; you can be beautiful and married there is no shame in that for He can use you in His kingdom even broken and bruised - scars can change the world i know His scars changed me— once i wandered lost - an easy victim for the wolves, and now i help Him drive them away by lending an ear, giving an encouraging word; being different in a world where everyone is the same just like He tells us we should be, and though sometimes i fail Him; He doesn't give up on me just encourages me to get up again— He is the only friend you need.

“What Do You See?” I see a Jasper Stone, a Woman of Great Value and Precious to God by Jennifer Workman Have you ever asked yourself this question? Never mind what people may say because they are always trying to compartmentalize you and fit you into their own ideal of who they believe that you are. When I look at myself in the mirror I love what I see, “flaws and all.” I tell myself what the word of God says that “I am fearfully and wonderfully made” (Psalms 139:14), that God has a wonderful plan and future for my life (Jeremiah 29:11), that “I am blessed coming in and blessed going out” (Deuteronomy 28:6), that my worth is “far above rubies” (Proverbs 31:10), that “I am the head and not the tail, above only and not beneath, a lender and not a borrower” (Deuteronomy 28: 12, 13).” We as women of God and people in general, must recognize our significance and that we have been “made in the image and similitude of God” (Genesis 1:27), (James 3:9). God sees us as precious and a very necessary part of creation and that is why in the beginning God created woman from man. God did this because man was alone and he indicated that it wasn't good for man to be alone (Genesis 2:18). As you look around you what do you see? I see many great “jasper stones” that have contributed innumerably to our society and world as a whole! Women are strong and powerful in so many ways and that is why God chose us to be the “givers of life.” Don’t ever let anyone belittle you or devalue your noteworthy contributions to life. It takes extra motivation and drive to be a woman. Women have to be “multitaskers” within the home, “multitaskers” at work and “multitaskers” in life. There is no one set thing that a woman does; we contribute in varying ways from being mothers, wives, nurses, leaders and the “list goes on and on.” And with juggling many tasks simultaneously, we still manage to “look good” and keep the family intact! All of these things are noteworthy and that is why we as women should encourage each other every day because no one “can do it quite like us.” We are precious jasper stones in the eyes of God and invaluable to life. God put us on this earth for a reason and that isn’t to be a “doormat” for someone to walk over, not to act as a harlot or a dumping ground for every man, not to walk behind a man but beside him and to be good leaders, mothers, sisters, friends, colleagues and in all that we do on this earth will help and impact people’s lives for the better and thus give glory to God!

Ask Beth by Beth Brubaker

Dear Beth,

We have fleas! I can't seem to find anything that works well. I really don't want to flea bomb my house, and I'd rather do it without calling an exterminator. I don't like the idea of pesticides all over my house. What do I do?

Fleabait in Boston

Dear Fleabait, We've had fleas twice. Once before we adopted our kitties, and once afterwards. The first time was from dog-sitting (the poor thing was infested), the second time was when we took in some stray kitties. All of them left behind some of their carry-on baggage before moving on. After the dog went home, we found ourselves inundated with fleas. Yet none of the sprays, carpet cleaners or other tactics were working. When my legs started resembling a bad case of prickly heat, I decided it was time to know my enemy better. I searched the internet and delved into the life cycle of the flea. What I found out was surprising. Fleas have a waxy, oily coating on their little parasitic bodies. Once they lose that coating, they dehydrate and die. The same goes for the eggs. Luckily for me I had an economy bottle of Dawn dishwashing liquid on hand and a spray bottle. Dawn has grease cutting agents - and if they can use them on animals to save them from crude oil spills, I can certainly use it to get rid of a flea infestation. All I had to do was find the right water-to-Dawn ratio. It turned out to be one tablespoon of Dawn, to one cup of water. Fill the sprayer until it's full, shake to mix, then after the bubbles go down, spray anything that has carpeting, cushions, or fabric like crazy. Spray the surfaces on top and underneath as well as the carpeting under furniture. Make things damp, but not wet. Do this two to three times a day and the fleas should be gone within three days (if you don't have any pets). If you have pets, spray one room for three days (keeping the animals out of the room). After three days, give your pets one of those â&#x20AC;&#x153;flea kill pillsâ&#x20AC;? that kills fleas within minutes, bathe them, then put them in the flea free room for a few days while you spray down the rest of the house. The fleas should be gone. It pays to know your enemy!

Happy Hunting, Beth 66

Flying Blind: A Lesson from John F. Kennedy, Jr. by Corallie Buchanan On the day of July 16th, 1999, John F. Kennedy, Jr. was killed when the light aircraft he was flying crashed into the Atlantic Ocean off the Massachusetts coast. His wife and sister-in-law were also amongst those who were killed. It was a terrible tragedy that was broadcast both nationally and internationally, and left many people wondering what happened. After intense investigation by the National Transportation Safety Board (NTSB), it was concluded that the crash was caused by “the pilot’s failure to maintain control of his airplane during a descent over water at night, which was a result of spatial disorientation.”

What direction am I facing? What altitude am I at? What other planes are around that might be a threat to this plane? How do I get to safety? Without this vital piece of equipment, he or she will have no way of knowing where their plane is travelling. Without a point of reference to guide them, the pilot quickly (and dangerously) becomes trapped in a web of panic based maneuvers; a state that will ultimately lead to their death. Instrument flying is when your mind gets a grip on the fact that there is vision beyond sight. -- U.S. Navy ‘Approach’ magazine circa W.W.II.

The hazy conditions that existed on the night of the crash were the major contributor to the crash. Other pilots flying that night reported similar conditions.

It appears John F. Kennedy Jr. had his own plan. He thought he knew what he was doing. Whether he consulted his instrument panel or not, we will never know.

The thick fog meant that pilots were unable to establish a visual horizon, therefore making it virtually impossible to know up from down. It is a miracle that there were no more fatal crashes that night.

But if he had, he might have noticed that everything was not okay. Had he found the right answers in time, he might have saved his life and that of his family.

Spatial disorientation is defined as “the inability of a person to correctly determine his body position in space.”1 This phenomenon can occur both in the air, and on the ground. It is typically a temporary state that people experience when their vision is obstructed by either weather conditions, chemical/physical influences (blindfolding), or an accident causing loss of sight. It is a condition in which the person’s perception of reality does not agree with actual reality. This is where the pilot’s instrument panel comes into play. It is here that the pilot can see the cold, hard facts about their plane’s stats.

Life can sometimes feel like we are flying blind. On the outside it can look and feel like we have it all together, like we know where we are going. But if we just stop to look at our inner instrument panel, we might find ourselves going in a completely different direction. This kind of disorientation is exhausting! As human beings, we like to know that we are in control. We feel much more at peace if we can see where we are going. A goal, a plan, a direction. They’re all key elements to our feeling personally secure. Or are they? 67

Just when we think we know where we are going, life throws a spanner in the works. Much like the pilot who encountered the thick fog, we can find ourselves in a situation where we have no idea what to do. Something happens that causes us to lose our orientation. Suddenly everything is not so clear. Maybe it is cancer, or a death in the family. Maybe it is a failed relationship, or some other personal trial we were not expecting. Whatever it is, it leaves us questioning our faith in God. How could God allow this to happen to me? What could I possibly have done to deserve this? Why did God allow this fog to come over my life? In that moment, we lose our focus. What happened to our inner guidance system, the one that reminds us who God is? What do we know is true, deep in our hearts? Isn’t it funny how when life is going well, we have no trouble believing in God and His promises. Yet when hard things come our way, we seem to forget everything we know about God. We ignore our inner instrument panel and just focus on the storm outside. Maybe this is what John F. Kennedy Jr. did. Selfpity is a terrible distraction. Instead of focusing on the instrument panel that was available to him, he panicked. He forgot about everything he knew to be true, and tried to fly on his own merits. We can see how successful that endeavor was! Flying blind only works when we rely on the instrument panel of our plane. Getting through life is only possible when we rely on God’s guidance in our lives, in both the good times and the bad. Think of the missionary who set out with all intentions to bring the name of Christ to the world, only to get there and discover that nobody wanted to hear about it.

The hard conditions, the loneliness, and the despair in realizing that your plans have come to nothing…they all have a purpose. It causes us to ask ourselves, am I relying on my own plans to see me through life? Am I flying my life’s plane based on my vision alone? Have I consulted my inner instrument panel to see whether this is really what God would have me to do? And when we look at the instrument panel and discover that the direction we are travelling is not what we thought, what do we do then? Do we adjust our course so that we are in line with our instrument panel? Or do we take over control of the aircraft, thinking that we are capable of flying this plane on our own? This choice is crucial. It can mean the difference between life and death. Are you going to choose to be guided by God, or your own intuition? The decision is yours. Be aware though, that the choices you make now can impact the rest of your life. And as you learn to fly by God’s guidance, may He bless you abundantly over what you would ever expect! Full time mother and author, Corallie Buchanan is a woman who writes from her heart. Sharing God's message of love and forgiveness, and mentoring other young writers is her passion. Corallie enjoys gardening, reading, and spending time with her family. Corallie is also the author of Watch Out! Godly Women on the Loose, a book which won her the award of Young Australian Christian Writer of the Year in 2007. She has a Bachelor's Degree in Behavioural Studies from the University of Queensland, and a Master's Degree in Divinity from Malyon Baptist 68 Theological College. She lives her with husband and daughter in Brisbane, Australia.

A Seed by Connie Chandler The kingdom of God is like a seed. It began with One Man not impressive to behold - but powerful. He is the fullness of the kingdom of God and He brought that kingdom to earth the kingdom of God is here and now And he lived it out - lived out zoĂŤ demonstrated life as God intended it to be His will on earth as it is in heaven. He sowed himself among us made his dwelling among us planted and rooted himself among us God with us Emmanuel. And then... He spoke truth, He promised peace He brought healing, He offered hope He lavished love. He broke open his life and poured it out so others could live - really live. And what began as an unassuming seed pod - grows. Twelve men listened and responded they followed and obeyed they learned and tried to live the way He did. He said, "Watch and listen This is how we grow, this is how we live." The Living Water flows The Light shines and dispels the darkness and the seed becomes sprouting leaves. Three-hundred more , and then five-thousand from many tribes and tongues were added to the kingdom through the Spirit and Truth.

The word spreads, the gospel enriches and the sprouts become branches men and women shared the stories to study and remember and pattern their lives after the Seed. And branches grow, they thicken they strengthen, they stretch farther and wider the kingdom expands to the ends of the earth. People are amazed that the more they study and live the life of the Seed, the more the seed becomes a tree taller and broader mightier and fuller more beautiful more bounteous more alive than they ever imagined. But the truth is the tree is not more than the Seed it is the Seed the fulfilment and fullness of all the seed contains and holds. It is the outward image and product of the planted and rooted and very much alive seed the Church is the picture and body of Christ living life to the fullest living life as He intended it the kingdom of God on earth here and now a tree a seed.

Footprints in the Mud Know Your Enemy by Beth Brubaker I have a heart for animals. I have two cats that I rescued via a friend, and now they've been with me for four years. Last autumn, I'd found two young kitties in a box in the nearby park, and took them in. They did not get along well with my cats. My boys (who were bigger and stronger) gave these little girls a wide berth, because they were scared of them! Unfortunately I didn't know these rambunctious little girls brought someone else along for the ride. Fleas. By the time I found them a forever home (which was only a few days) my cats started scratching. This wasn't the first time I'd dealt with fleas. The first time was years ago (B.C.- Before Cats) when we were dog-sitting. The poor animal was infested, and though I did my best, he left us with an infested house by the time he went home. Since there was no dog available, the fleas started coming after us. Me especially. A blind person could have read War and Peace by touching my legs - I had that many bites on them. We bought sprays and powders for the rugs, creams for our poor bitten legs, but nothing would get rid of these critters. I didn't want to bomb the place (for I was also going through a hoarding phase), so I decided to look into these vile little creatures to see what I could learn. I learned a lot. Fleas have a waxy, oily coating to keep in moisture. If they lose this coating they dehydrate and die. I rooted through my cleaning supplies, but everything was a bit too harsh for doing what I wanted. Then I saw a commercial for Dawn dishwashing liquid, where they helped animals suffering from oil spills. I had my answer. I also had a big mega bottle of the stuff under my kitchen sink. I knew better than to slather the stuff on my carpets and furniture, though I desperately wanted to! I toyed with the water-to-Dawn ratio (and its effect on vegetable oil) and came up with the right formula for the job. I filled my sprayer and went to work, spraying anything that involved carpeting, cushions or fabric. I did it three times a day every day for three days. The fleas were gone! It wasn't as easy when I had cats, but a couple of flea-kill pills, a sprayed room and some isolation did the trick. I was so glad that I got to know my enemy! Sometimes the enemy is a situation, attitude, or a person. Often times it's the devil himself. But to know your enemy is to defeat your enemy, either by chipping away at a weakness (as in a situation), knowing how to approach and get to know someone (as in an attitude or a person), or knowing what to avoid (like the dude down under). Know your enemy. But also know that God is bigger than any enemy! 71

Misconceptions by Beth Brubaker She sat there by the window, crooked nose pressed to the pane, guarding her possessions with her scowl and with her cane. When one day a stranger came who lived across the way, and stole some purple flowers from her garden-sparsely laid. The woman saw him leaving, precious booty in his grasp. She tried to catch the culprit but the effort made her gasp. Cramped and hurting, she returned, into her darkened house, peering out her window like a cat hunting a mouse. It wasn't long 'till back he came, another man in tow. Her door swept open with a bang, her cane raised for a blow. The man, alarmed, backed up a step, his jaw went wide with shock, The other man had stepped aside else he lose his stock. The woman stopped, cane lowered down and stood in stunned surprise. A vast array of flowerpots, seen through deep wrinkled eyes. The man stepped forward, cautiously explaining why he came, to plant a purple garden outside of her door-frame. Leaned on her cane, her anger gone replaced by salty tears, the ground, so bare, would now be filled with blooms throughout the years. The woman's garden- now full-grown was beautiful and blessed, the two had become lifelong friends from one act of kindness.

Family Summer Challenge: DIY Bible Verse Pennant Flag Project from Kimber of “Sublime Living”

Can you hear the birds chirping? Can you smell the flowers blooming? Summer is upon us. It's the time of year we all look forward to when we can finally get our “Ahhhhhh” on. Our schedules relax a bit. The kids have their eyes fixed on one thing and that is to: PLAY! As much as I am looking forward to this respite, I am also sensing an urgency to press in and grab a hold of God with every ounce of my being. A call to keep our family focused and centered on things with eternal value. This is what spurred on the concept of this project. It began with the idea of each family member picking a verse for our whole family to memorize together. My thought was we would memorize one verse a week. Then God gave me this great picture of the scriptures on a pennant flag garland. So as we each picked our verses I designed a pennant shape on my design software and placed the text along with the keyword each verse represented. 73

Next I printed them out and cut them in actual size so I could trace them onto a white tea towel. You could use any fabric but I like the texture and rough edges of a washed tea towel. It gives it a lil' vintagey feel. I placed the computer printed paper under the tea towel and traced the text underneath onto the tea towel with a sharpie pen. Since this will not need to be washed I didn't need a fabric pen just a regular sharpie pen. As fabric moves and shifts there are bound to be imperfections but I like the character this adds. You will notice in the photo the fabric is longer on top than the paper pattern - I was going to have it go over the top of the banner and around the back - but changed my mind (yeah - go figure) I later trimmed it to the same size as the paper.

Voila - the scripture pennants are ready - now for the colorful backing addition.

Check out the scraps we have on hand, just waiting for a fun project like this! Now for the difficult part - picking which fabrics you want to use with which verses, making sure they coordinate nicely on the garland.

I used pinking shears (because I like the look) and trimmed the fabric about a 1/2" larger than the tea towel panels - except for the top where I had about 1.5 inch larger so I could fold it behind and create a pocket to run the twine through.

Sewing the white panel to the colored backing.

Now it is time to sew across the top back of the flag so there is a secure place to run the twine through.

Here they are all sewn ready to be strung.

I decided to use natural twine. I played with the idea of ribbon, white rope...but decided these would pair nicely with the craft look of the finished product.

I used a safety pin in the twine so that I could easily move the twine through the back pockets of the pennant flags.

And here they are all strung and ready to hang. We hung them in a doorway of our house where we will frequently be reminded to memorize away. The wee ones are SO excited they each have their verse they picked out on display for us to work on. They can't wait to begin. The kids decided we will be starting with the flag on the right and work our way to the left. Don't even ask me, I have no idea and can't begin to tell you how much this goes against my personal wiring - but I LOVE that they are excited and have a plan for our family to work through this together. Hoping this little family project of ours inspires you to channel your inner creativity and make a fun family plan to keep God the focus as you rejuvenate over the summer. -Simply Sublime!

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fâÅÅxÜ ECDG “Unless you walk out into the unknown, the odds of making a profound difference in your life pretty low.” -Tom Peters, Writer and speaker “We must be willing to get rid of the life we've planned, so as to have the life that is waiting for us. -Joseph Campbell “The Ten Commandments aren't prefaced with ‘If you're in the mood.’” - Laura Schlessinger

Visit Connie at www.conniearnold.webs.com or her blog, www.conniearnold.blogspot.com

Check out the creative posts, crafts, and recipes from Kimber at Sublime Living

Visit Kathi Macias at her website for information about her books and her speaking schedule. www.kathimacias.com

if you only believe by Linda M. Crate He is the only power that saves, and so it is in Him that i will trust because money and beauty fade people will betray you, but He will never turn His back on you no matter how many times you run from Him; He'll always be waiting for you to return to Him He is your saving grace, and only through the Son can you reach the Father of the universe; and the Holy Spirit will never let you down, He loves you just as you are even if you're a pillar of strength or a broken vase He has used for you in His kingdom because you are the only you He created, and you have a purpose and a place never give up hope because He can always help you if you only believe.

YÉÜ WâÇvtÇ 9 axwÜt ÉÇ à{x|Ü ãxww|Çz wtç Everything and nothing changes now these vows are done; the ‘overture’ is over the new melody begun. As bread and wine you mingle, histories entwined within eternal love and care of a God who’s here, a God who’s there. Days of passion lie before you, nights of doubt will intervene, romance, in tidal ebb and flow, will hold you in between. Today won’t last forever, through a future yet unclear promise shared in the here and now will dictate the path you steer. I will light a candle for you, so will others here, as the differences between you become the embrace that holds you near. As bread and wine you mingle, twined and intertwined, within eternal love and care of a God who’s here, a God who’s there. ~ Keith Wallis 79

The Early Years by Keith Wallis The poems in this omnibus were written quite a while back. Whilst fairly contemporary at the time, some may well have been written differently today. However, some still remain firm favourites in the author's portfolio. “Coaled” (in Marketplace of Masks) found a new lease on life as a short story (“Clive's Journey”) published by Bewildering Stories (issue 333). Read more: http://wordsculptures-keith.blogspot.com/p/earlyyears.html#ixzz2UywCNQDr

“poems from the pit” by Keith Wallis English poet Keith Wallis is a lifelong resident of Houghton Regis and takes a keen interest in the development of the Chalk Quarry wild life reserve. He's known the area from its days as a major local industry through to its new life as an SSSI wild life reserve. His new book of

‘poems from the pit’ revolves around photographs he’s taken in the quarry over the last two years. It is, however, not what you would expect. It is not nostalgic for a lost past, though a few poems refer to the former days of the quarry, but rather a celebration of now. The words and photographs offer a view that there is beauty even in the ‘detritus’ left behind by industry and the litter discarded by the thoughtless. The poems are all inspired by his photographs but may be a little oblique – often showing a train of thought rather than a description. Sample can be viewed at: http://www.blurb.com/user/store/wordsculptor where you’ll also find his other books. You will also fins Keith’s poetry on the Ruby for Women blog, as well as on his own blog at http://wordsculptures-keith.blogspot.com/ . 80

Why I Refuse to Step Foot on a Cruise Ship this Summer by Aubrey Page I see many of my friends posting pictures on social media. A cruise to the Bahamas. A cruise to Puerto Rico. A cruise to Mexico. Each time I think to myself, “that looks like it would not be enjoyable.” Strange reaction to a picture of a cruise, I know. In my defense, I have spent more time at sea than all of these cruise-taking friends combined. I have sailed all of the “Seven Seas,” forced my way through the Strait of Hormuz against opposition from Iran and Oman, and have carefully navigated my way through the Suez Canal. On one particularly harrowing night, I stood topside on a ship with a satellite phone during high seas and steady rain while crossing through the Strait of Gibraltar. In May of 2013, I left active duty in the United States Navy after four long years stationed on a ship. I crossed the Atlantic Ocean almost half a dozen times and I really could go the rest of my life without doing that again. It may sound adventurous and exciting to cross such a large body of water. Yet, all I can think about is the tormenting, long days at sea travelling west when the days are literally longer, as each day we gain an hour by crossing a new time zone.

Understandably, cruises are enticing to people. Travelling to exotic places on a vessel designed for your comfort while people wait on your beck and call. What’s not to enjoy? However, I have pulled out of port countless times and each time brought me great anxiety. I always left my loved ones behind—my parents, my sister, and my new husband. I felt my heart rip from my chest as we drifted away. I have never felt so much responsibility for causing pain to those I love. Logically, I knew that I was not the one deciding how often the ship left its homeport. I also knew that I made my family proud. But all the goodbyes took an emotional toll on me. My time underway was not enjoyable either. I am quick to tell others about the early wakeups filled with aggressive lists of daily tasks to perform. Hours standing watch on the bridge observing the proximity of other ships seemed endless. Surviving on four hours of sleep gave me a sense of pride. Having a circle of 250 people and a rotating 30-day meal plan month after month was only exhilarating for a short time. Then there was the heat. The cold. All of it filled my head with desires to get off the ship for good. I speak of this often.

But the parts I don’t easily share are the sunrises. The sunsets. Seeing the earth awake slowly. Colors shooting across the sky. Shadows disappearing then reforming only to disappear once again.

The stress of getting my tasks for the day accomplished raises my blood pressure. The exhaustion of working 20-hour work days is too quickly recalled in my memory. I can’t face that quite yet.

I often gloss over how the sea rises and falls. It seems to have its own personality. Some days it grows angry and lowers in sharp protest. At other times, it seems to nap, calm in a glassy sort of way.

I am confident that God will continue to heal my heart and show me that my value is not in my past experiences, but in His love (John 17:4). I know that one day I will miss the sea.

I usually keep quiet when I see lightening on land, but I want to say, “Just imagine a lightning storm at sea!” The most brilliant streaks of light shoot across the sky as if heaven itself is reaching out a hand to us. Rarely do I mention the stars. There are only a few places on earth where you can see the illuminated planets in their full glory. They seem to be showing their true brilliance in a marvelous blanket endlessly outstretched over a black canopy. It’s a breathtaking display. When my eyes capture this amazing view, my heart thanks the Creator (Psalm 121:2). How could you not? Yet, it amazed me how many of my shipmates did not believe in God. Despite my love affair with the sea, I can’t bring myself to step aboard another ship, even a cruise ship. The anxiety of disappointing my family still haunts me.

I will wake one morning and yearn to stand at a ship’s rail and watch the changing colors of the sky. When that day comes, I will be more open to setting sail again. On that day, when I see the lines release the ship from the pier I will focus on praising God for all His beauty and ponder less about my past pain. For I know God can heal all things. ********************************************************** Aubrey is a freelance writer and blogger who enjoys expressing her feelings through the art of writing. As a veteran, she writes on military issues in addition to other articles addressing women's issues, travel, and domestic pursuits. She currently lives with her husband in the historic district of Savannah and they love exploring the beautiful city together.

Becoming the Disciple Whom Jesus Loved: Discover Your Character in God’s Love Story by Michelle S. Lazurek Becoming the Disciple Whom Jesus Loved is available from Ruby’s Reading Corner. 82

God’s Fruit Salad by Sharon L. Patterson In the great banquet hall Gathered together all The World’s hungry brood~ Who wondered at tonight’s menu of food. As the angels brought out the silver tray Only one bowl on top was displayed. Crystal clear, it was easy to see inside Fruit of every kind with nothing to hide. The guests came to the table and found their seat Waiting patiently for what they hoped would be meat. But nothing else came, not one thing more. Just the colorful salad and then water was poured. Stunned, they sat to contemplate The single food served on their plate. Would it be enough to fill Or would they leave and be hungry still? Then, the Lord entered and invited them to dine. Though, quietly, under their breath, a few dared to whine. He blessed it, then picked up a fork to use As the guests continued to muse Then copied the Master Even when their thoughts were of famine’s disaster. His comment, “Isn’t this delicious?” Prompted their flattering response, “Yes…and so nutritious!” They ate the salad whose fruit was mixed With the apples and oranges God had picked. Each was distinctive in its own flavor Combined, it gave a new one to savor. Some preferred the banana to the cherry Others responded favorably to the kiwi and strawberry. What an assortment, indeed Each having grown to ripeness from a tiny seed. As the meal drew to a close, The guests no longer supposed The dinner to be incomplete. Rising to their feet, With bellies full and hearts fuller still It was then the Lord chose to reveal That the fruit just eaten was chosen for a reason Picked from their lives for this ripened season. To be God’s Fruit Salad

Number Block Puzzle Answer Key by Beth Brubaker

Happy Thoughts Double Puzzle Answer Key by Beth Brubaker

her.

http://www.spirituallyunevenmarriage.com

Meet the Ruby for Women Writers Aunt Dots, Master Gardener Aunt Dots has been writing for Ruby for Women since the very beginning. Her love for gardening started early in her life: “I believe I got my love for growing flowers from my mother. She had a large flower garden with annuals and dahlias. I had my first flower garden after I married and we lived in a garden apartment.” She now has perennial gardens, rose gardens, grape vines, asparagus, currants, gooseberries, walnut trees, apple trees, and hazelnut trees. In the winter months, Aunt Dots sews, making quilts that she has donated to a Mennonite Relief auction.

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

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.

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 three 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. After 30 years of working in the medical field and managing other people’s businesses Katherine has her own online shop and graphics business. She never hesitates to contribute to Ruby for Women. She says, “Being part of Ruby for Women is like getting a big hug every day.” Blog http://KatherinesCorner.com Blog Graphics at http://BlogArtByKatherine.com Shop http://KeepsakesByKatherine.etsy.com

Theresa Ceniccola is The Christian Mompreneur, a Mentor to Moms Who are Running a Business that Supports Faith and Family. She empowers entrepreneurial moms to build profitable businesses with wisdom and grace through the Christian Mompreneur Mastermind program and her professional Marketing services, which include copywriting, marketing and strategy consulting and private coaching. www.theresaceniccola.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 to-do 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. Visit Heather at her blog, Room to Breathe. 86

Donna McBroom-Theriot, Writer. Book Reviewer. Southern Lady. My life is like an episode of "I love Lucy!" I'm a writer, book reviewer, and a Southern Lady who loves her Sweet Tea. My blog: My Life. One Story at a Time. I've been writing since 2009. As luck would have it, the very first short story I wrote was published within months of my writing it. This quote pretty much sums me up: "Deep in my heart, I know there’s no promise I’ll be free from trouble in this life. In fact, I’m usually either getting out of trouble, currently in trouble, or about to meet trouble around the next corner." Well, you know the saying, "The road to Hell is paved with good intentions" – that’s usually mine! Join me. It's bound to be a bumpy ride!

Jennifer Workman has been actively involved in Christian Ministry all of her life. As an insightful speaker, she draws heavily upon her background and undergraduate degree in Professional English with a Minor in Television and Radio Broadcasting. As a strong and anointed woman of God, Jennifer possesses the God-given ability to reach out and empower others in different facets of their lives. Contact Jennifer through her website at http://wrtingforlife.webs.com or http://simplvic.webs.com.

Cindy J. Evans is a published poet living in the greater Atlanta area. She enjoys writing, walking, learning about nutrition and doing receptionist work. She also likes attending grand openings, faith-based movies and riding Ferris wheels with her husband, Mark. Full time mother and author, Corallie Buchanan, is a woman who writes from her heart. Corallie writes regularly for the Christian Woman magazine, Australia's premier magazine for Christian women. In addition to her editing her own work, she contributes material to a number of magazines in the US including The Haven Journal, Inspired Women Magazine, and Ruby for Women. Sharing God's message of love and forgiveness, and mentoring other young writers is her passion. Corallie is also the author of Watch Out! Godly Women on the Loose; a book which won her the award of Young Australian Christian Writer of the Year in 2007. She has a Bachelor's Degree in Behavioural Studies from the University of Queensland, and a Master's Degree in Divinity from Malyon Baptist Theological College. She lives her with husband and daughter in Brisbane, Australia. http://www.coralliebuchanan.com.au/

Cindy Bailey of Waynesburg, PA is a longtime writer, journalist, librarian, church musician, wife and mom of two girls who somehow managed to grow up in spite of my general confusion and overall disorganization. I publish my own local newspaper called GreeneSpeak (www.greenespeak.com) which has earned numerous awards from the Pennsylvania NewsMedia Association, and for over 20 years I’ve been writing and publishing my Cindy’s Wind column now on Facebook, and on my blog: www.cindyswind.blogspot.com 87

Theresa Begin writes her blog, Shoestring Elegance, as a means of ministering to other women who are interested in learning to live well, even on a budget. “I began writing my blog, Shoestring Elegance, because I found that living on a tight budget didn’t mean compromising on style or standing.” Theresa’s favorite verse, which guides her writing, is “Nothing is Impossible with God.” (Luke 1:37) Visit Theresa at her blog at http://shoestringelagance.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. One blog is written for www.MOMS.FortWayne.com and is titled “Not Different Enough”. The other blog is www.gettingitright-occasionally.blogspot.com I write freelance articles for magazines and am a contributor to two devotional publications: Living the Gospel Life and Hope-Full Living. I do not believe it is possible to make it through a day without faith and a sense of humor, even in the darkest times and I try to always reflect that in my writing.

Aubrey Page is a freelance writer and blogger who enjoys expressing her feelings through the art of writing. As a veteran, she writes on military issues in addition to other articles addressing women's issues, travel, and domestic pursuits. She currently lives with her husband in the historic district of Savannah and they love exploring the beautiful city together.

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

Brenda Diaz is a Christian and Latina woman who has found her calling being a wife and a mother of two children (When younger, her writings focused on her life’s journey as a woman centering on truth from the perspective of justice and social change. As she’s grown in wisdom, age, and spirit, she now dedicates her life to writing about God as the primary mover in her own life and the life of her marriage and her family. You can visit Brenda on her blog at http://mrsbrendadiaz44.blogspot.com/ 88

My name is Yvonne Carson, CEO/Founder of Empowerlicious Woman ™. Our tagline is “Feeling Good about the Woman Inside.” When a woman feels good from the inside out she exudes confidence, faith, and assurance in who God created her to be, not by the dictates of society. These attributes are needed, among other things, to live an authentic, purpose-driven life and for fulfilling her unique calling in life.

Rhea B. Riddle was born in Kentucky, in a little town on the Ohio River at the time of the famous flood of 1937, which may have contributed to her sense of drama, and to an amplified love of life. A world view influenced by gentle traditions and strong Christian family ties, boosted her desire to reflect the recollections of a willful (though loving) youngster who was filled with longings to explore, to reason, and write of the vibrations of daily living that surrounded her. She hopes to lure you with current life adventures (truth and fiction) as well as draw you to visit a time of “rewound” living!”

Amanda Stephan is a multi-published Christian romance author who loves sharing God’s love with others. A homeschooling mother and stay at home wife, she finds pleasure in many things from sewing, to baseball and karate, to writing. She is currently working on a three book Christian romantic suspense series and resides in Columbia, TN, with her real-life hero husband of 8 years and two children. You can find Amanda at her website http://www.BooksByAmanda.com http://www.thepriceoftrust.com http://www.twitter.com/amandastephan https://www.facebook.com/creativehomemomma

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.

Kristi Burchfiel is an author of devotional and Bible study books, and she is also a contribution writer for Ruby for Women. Her daily devotionals for every day of the month are available on the Ruby for Women community website, as well as the Ruby for Women blog. You can also find her daily devotionals in the Ruby for Women magazine. For more information about the devotional and Bible study books by Kristi Burchfiel, please visit her blog at www.kristiburchfiel.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.

Christie Workman has more than 20 years of writing, developmental coaching and teaching experience. She is a four-time Hoosier State Press Association Award winner with two first-place designations for her editorial feature stories. Originally from Tennessee, Christie now resides in Indiana. www.revisionmagazine.net

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

Linda M. Crate is a Pennsylvanian native born in Pittsburgh, but she was raised in the rural town of Conneautville. She attended and graduated from Edinboro University of Pennsylvania with a degree in English-Literature in 2009. Her poetry, articles, reviews, and short stories have appeared in several journals online and in print. Her poetry chapbook A Mermaid Crashing into Dawn was recently published by Fowlpox Press. Visit Linda online at her Facebook page: www.facebook.com/pages/Linda-M-Crate/129813357119547 Etsy Shop: http://www.etsy.com/people/ravenofthewolf Blog: http://theravensnevermore.blogspot.com/

Jane Hoppe is a freelance editor and writer who creatively shares what she’s learned about work, emotional healing, relationships, and life dreams. She has authored one novel, Beyond Betrayal, and published short stories, nonfiction articles, and personal essays. Learn more at www.janehoppe.com. Read more at www.aquajane-musings.blogspot.com and www.reflectionsoneldercare.com.

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 Writersâ&#x20AC;&#x2122; Tapestry: Where Writing and Life Intertwine http://www.michellelazurek.com

Angela Morris is a free-lance photographer who has been part of the Ruby for Women team since 2012. She is a mom to Clarice, and she loves to write articles for her blog as well as for the Ruby blog. Angela loves to do craft projects with Clarice and they work together as volunteers for a local pet shelter near their home.

Chris Roe is an English poet who was born in the rural county of Norfolk, England in 1948, where he has lived and worked for much of his life. Most of his working career has been spent in the agricultural industry. His love of nature, the countryside and the time spent within the agricultural industry is very much reflected in much of his writing. You can find more of Chrisâ&#x20AC;&#x2122; poetry and his books from his website, Silent Flight Publications.

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 will begin work on her second novel, Taken by Choice, and start writing a collection of short stories in 2014.

Aileen Stewart is “just your average mom. A gum chewing, bubble blowing, shower singing, flower planting, cookie baking, craft making, photo taking, reading, WRITING, kind of mom who loves the Lord, her husband, soon to be eight year old daughter, and crazy cat Max. I have many interests and hobbies, but the two I'm most passionate about are writing and photography. I am a published award winning author of the book Fern Valley - A Collection of Short Stories and an award winning amateur photographer.

Keith Wallis, Poet-in-Residence, 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 ezine, he is a moderator at ChristianWriters.com. His blog of ekphrasic poetry is: http://wordsculptures-keith.blogspot.com/ where you’ll also find links to his books and his other blogs. Married to Val in 1970, he has two sons and three grandsons. The eldest grandson is disabled and cannot communicate verbally. Though not an ‘academic’ (school was a disaster!) he was always fond of writing. He began submitting work for publication in the 1980’s after being encouraged by a community writer in residence.

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

Nina Newton, Sr. Editor When all of my four older children were in school, I returned to college as a “nontraditional student.” Eventually, I earned degrees in Classics and Philosophy, and a graduate degree in Medieval Studies: History of Theology. After teaching at a small community college in Michigan for seven years, my husband and I were blessed with the adoption of our two beautiful daughters, Gracie and Annie. Gracie is 13 years old and Annie is 11. 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 also work at Huntington University, Huntington, Indiana as an adjunct instructor in Biblical and theological studies and writing. My personal blog is at www.mamaslittletreasures.com where I frequently post tutorials and patterns for crafts and other sewing projects, as well as weekly reflections on life as a woman, wife, mother, and daughter of the King. 92

Credits and Copyrights All stories and articles are copyright by the authors. All pictures and images are copyright by the authors and / or have been purchased, used by permission or are in the public domain. If any pictures or images have been used inadvertently, and they do not belong in this publication, please email us and we will immediately remove them. Nothing in this issue of Ruby for Women may be reproduced, copied, or shared without the permission of the author. Advertising information is available at www.rubyforwomen.com/advertise Questions? Email Nina @ editor@rubyforwomen.com or Amanda @ ajohnson@rubyforwomen.com Ruby for Women is published by rubyforwomen.com All submission inquiries should be directed to Nina Newton, Sr. Editor Ruby for Women editor@rubyforwomen.com or Amanda Johnson, Assistant Editor ajohnson@rubyforwomen.com Advertising inquiries should be directed to editor@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 93 Website design by Blog Art by Katherine