2 Your Hometown Magazine
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4 Your Hometown Magazine
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8 Your Hometown Magazine
Issue 6 2012
f e at u r e s The Great Outdoors
12
On The Cover Profile
18
The Bookstack Blog
38
A Healthy Second Chance
40
Tiny Changes
42
K-Life
44
One Day Of Service
46
Angel Flight
53
Living In Wholeness: Decluttering
46
60
“Cherish your human connections - your relationships with friends and family.”
d e pa r t m e n t s
— Barbara Bush Publisher’s Note
11
Fashion Fun
20
Living In Searcy
24
We The People
30
Hope...Believe
48
Health
54
Over The Counter
56
Out And About
58
Dinner & A Magazine
62
Games & Puzzles
64
24
On the Cover Nathan King Photo by George Dillin 501-268-9304 SearcyLiving.com 9
Publisher Christine Walker Art Director & Webmaster Garrett Johnson Graphic Assistant Ikey Ray Customer Service Stephanie McInturff Editorial Assistant Cherie Sewell Makeover Coordinator Christine Locke Special Project Coordinator Hannah Elliott Public Relations Associate Jennifer Jones Contributing Independent Photographers Kimberly Brackins (501)279-1515 George Dillin (501)268-9304 Cassie Jones (501)230-0539 Roxy Creative (501)593-6866 Candace Skarda (501)281-6297 Homan Photography (501)268-2844 Taylor Howard Photography (870)917-8012 Feature Writers Cecelia Wilson Cassie Jones Erica Brooks
Searcy Living Locally Owned and Operated 812 South Main Street Searcy, AR 72143 searcyliving@yahoo.com (501) 368-0095 SearcyLiving.com For subscription information go to SearcyLiving.com
Copyright 2012 Shark Promotions LLC. Searcy Living, Cabot Living, and Your Hometown Magazine are trademarks of Shark Promotions. All rights reserved. Ownership, rights, and logos are property of their respected businesses. No part may be reproduced without written permission. Shark Promotions LLC is not responsible for claims, misprints, discrepancies, advice of any kind, or content in advertisements or editorials, but will rectify errors in forthcoming issues.
Copyright Š 2012 Shark Promotions LLC
Searcy Living Magazine is a subsidiary of Shark Promotions LLC.
10 Your Hometown Magazine
Adventures Last year I ziplined for the first time. The year before I fell in love with kayaking. Just barely into this new year, I can’t help but wonder, what’s next? But, I am even more excited to see what new and inspiring adventures you have to share with our staff and this community. Thank you for sharing with us for the past eleven years. We look forward to publishing your adventures for many years to come. Thanks as always for reading Searcy Living. :)
Thank you for reading Searcy Living!
The Great Outdoors
A Healthy Second Chance
On The Cover Profile
“The beauty of Creation is everywhere.”
“There is nothing more invigorating to me than to be able to help someone with what they’re doing and then have them come back in a few weeks and tell me how it’s changed their life.”
“The feeling of satisfaction after hard work is something you can’t get anywhere else.”
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Article & Photos by Warren Watkins (Unless noted)
The inspiring power of the outdoors has drawn men from the Searcy area to put down their remote controls, pick up a gun or a fishing rod and head out into the world of nature. These are not mere passing fancies, but lifetime interests in fishing, hunting and breathing the fresh air outside of the four walls of home. One day when Larry Lewis, 62, of Searcy, was 17 years old he headed to the Patrick Air Force Base pier near his home near Cocoa Beach on Florida’s east coast, hoping to hook a stringer of sea bass that he could sell to a local fish shop for a few extra bucks. It was favorite place for Lewis, a place where he could escape to the sunshine and sand, a place where he once met three of the original seven Mercury astronauts – John Glenn even gave Lewis his rod one day. “After school we’d go out on the pier and fish,” Lewis reminisced recently. On that particular afternoon Lewis was anxious to get his fish and then head home because he was due to babysit that evening. Nature has a way of changing our plans. Suddenly the six-foot blonde, suntanned teen felt a huge tug on his saltwater rod and reel; he had hooked a giant sting-ray. Over four decades after that memorable fish hit his bait, Lewis is still hooked on the great outdoors and has established a fishing guide service, Bass Safari, that caters to clients that want to have the true bass experience on Arkansas lakes. Bass Safari also reaches out to youngsters who Lewis wants to introduce to the joy of fishing. A retired school administrator, Lewis often competes in tournaments sponsored by the Bass Anglers Sportsman’s Society. Sponsored by Crain Corporation, Lewis has won $5,000 to $10,000 in some tournaments and often competes against his son. “He has the unfair edge because he knows everything I taught him, plus everything he’s learned,” Lewis said. “These young guys are dominating it.” In some tournaments men are paired off with “sons” to introduce them to fishing. 12 Your Hometown Magazine
“You’d be surprised how many kids I’ve introduced to tournament fishing,” Lewis said. It’s no surprise that Lewis passes on his love of fishing to youngsters, because he was introduced to the sport the same way by Boy Scout leaders and his then-99-year-old grandfather, Carl Vandiver. “He took me crappie fishing,” Lewis said. “He went fishing at the age of 100 with his son, Jimmy Vandiver. He was getting weak but he didn’t want to come in. He was one of those old fashioned grandparents every kid loves to have.” His grandpa even had a fisherman’s sense of competition. “He would mark the side of the boat to show how many he had caught,” Lewis said. “He was a tough old codger. He’d have one hand sculling and with the other be holding a cane pole.” Sculling is the art of paddling a flat-bottomed boat with a short paddle by leaning over close to the water from the end of the boat. Being on the water means being close to his Creator, Lewis believes, and tells of a moment when he was about to launch a boat with a friend. “That was 25 years ago and I thought, ‘This is the way God meant it to be,’” Lewis said of his thoughts. “It just does feel right, doesn’t it?” Lewis’ favorite fishing spot? “The ocean,” Lewis said. “I still take a group of friends to Panama City Beach every year.” “It’s a tough sport,” Lewis said. “If I’m not fishin’ I’m at Health Corp gym working out. You’ve got to stay in shape.” And how did that story turn out where he hooked the giant stingray while fishing from a Florida pier 45 years ago? “I fought him for 21 hours,” Lewis said. “I hooked him at 4 p.m. and landed him at 1 p.m. the next day.” The sting-ray was a Florida State Record at 325 lbs. Journalists from Life and Sports Afield magazines were in town by coincidence and covered the event. “I had just finished reading, ‘The Old Man and the Sea,’ and someone remarked, ‘Well, this is the young man and the sea,’” Lewis said.
 Larry Lewis of Searcy brought in this bass on the lower Little Red River, just inside the Searcy City Limits, in October.
Lewis is quick to pass on tips to other bass fishermen: your seasonal patterns; they vary with water temperatures. the windiest bank you can find. Pretty blue-sky days are the worst for fishing, even though it is nice out there in the boat. A novice will head for a cove, but a good fisherman will be going up and down on the waves and loading the boat with fish. your bait by looking for schools of bait fish near the bank. The bass are going to be under that bait.
 Larry Lewis and the giant sting ray. (Submitted Photo)
SearcyLiving.com 13
my dad. I caught the only fish that day,” Mitchell said. “Nobody “That’s when I’m really me,” the tall fisherman with a pony knew about trout fishing then.” Using canned corn as bait amazed the Arkansans who had to tail said as he pushed his jet-powered boat from the dock, “when I learn a new type of fishing after the river was changed from a get back outdoors.” warm-water Ozark stream to a cold trout fishery. You may have seen him on “Talking Outdoors” with Steve His dad was an avid quail hunter. “Wild Man” Wilson or on “Stars of the Hunt,” but David Mitchell, “We’d go out early in the morning,” Mitchell said, “then come 54, of Letona says he’s just “the old mountain man” now. He’s back in the evening and Momma spent a lifetime getting in would cook the quail up with and out of boats on the icy white gravy and cathead biscuits. waters of the Little Red River, That’s still the best, for me.” climbing the chilly mountains Lately Mitchell’s been spending in the morning, of Colorado and videoing his a lot of time on the Mississippi then come back in the evening and Momma would fellow hunters and fishermen River in search of the world record for television shows from here cook the quail up with white gravy and cathead catfish caught on a fly rod, most to Africa. In fact, he’s the only biscuits. That’s still the best, for me. days coming in with 300 lbs. of wildlife photographer to film a fish. hunter completing two turkey He’s been to Africa twice on — David Mitchell “Grand Slams” (one of each of safari. the four subspecies of turkey in Mitchell has a unique way of the U.S.), traveling 9,000 miles getting kids to open up when he’s in 60 days to do so. In his 30teaching them to fish. year career guiding in Colorado, “I tell them, ‘It’s time to eat worms,’ and I show them the worms,” Mitchell has bagged elk, mule deer and bear, even hauling his Mitchell said. “I pick one out and say, ‘I got mine, now you get video equipment up the Rockies. yours.’ Then I’ll eat mine. I don’t chew them up but just swallow Mitchell works with Hope Outdoors, an organization dedicated ‘em whole. Then I tell them it’s time for them to eat theirs.” to introducing challenged youngsters to hunting and fishing, also Asked how he would describe the flavor of a worm, Mitchell participating in Lindsey Resort’s Youth Outdoor Retreat. answers quickly. “Tastes like chicken.” “What my granddad taught me is what I teach kids,” Mitchell “This reconnects me back to my childhood,” Mitchell said as he said. stood in his boat and wet a hook in the Little Red, where he guides His first fishing trips were on Lake Conway. out of Lindsey’s near Heber Springs. “I shot my first squirrel at the “We’d slide the boat into the back of a pickup and we’d take RC age of four. It’s a reconnection with my heritage.” Colas, Moon Pies and pork and beans,” Mitchell said. “Dad would As a teen Mitchell hunted deer frequently with his family, even scull the boat and smoke his pipe and fish. If I was tired I’d lay nicknaming one big, elusive buck “Big Foot.” The camaraderie in down and sleep in the bottom of the boat. We’d come back with a hunting camps is unique, according Mitchell. cooler full of bass and bream and crappie.” “It’s the anticipation of the hunt,” Mitchell said, trying to Mitchell attended the dedication of the Greer’s Ferry Dam by describe his love for the outdoors, “being so excited you can’t go President Kennedy. to sleep at night. It’s my life.” “My first time on the Little Red, I was 12 years old and went with
Honeybee, an Australian Shepherd, took her human, David Mitchell of Letona, trout fishing on the Little Red River.
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While lots of learning goes on at Harding University in Searcy, one teacher has as much of an eye on what’s going on outside the classroom windows as any of his antsy students. Dr. Jimmy Behel, a professor in the College of Business, loves to throw down his books, papers and pens and head into the outdoors in search of crappie, ducks and turkey. He spends time bow hunting for deer and even heads south after redfish in Louisiana’s saltwater marshes. “I was raised in rural north Alabama,” Behel said. “I suppose when I was a kid that’s all I was able to do is spend time in the woods, because I had no siblings except for a sister that was six years older. I entertained myself by being out in the woods. I suppose that’s when I began to appreciate the outdoors.” Academics brought Behel to Searcy in 1967, but he soon discovered that this was a wonderful area for hunting and fishing. “I really enjoyed the fact that the rural area was so sparsely populated and there are lots of opportunities for hunting and fishing,” Behel said. “I love the fact that here in Searcy you can be deer hunting, duck hunting or crappie fishing in a matter of minutes from downtown Searcy. That’s nice. Not having to travel far or fight traffic to get there makes it something I can do in a very efficient manner.” Behel hunted deer for the first time here because the deer population in his home community had been decimated. It has since rebounded. “For 20 years I quail hunted and had bird dogs, until the quail began to disappear” Behel said. “But when the population of quail got so low, I started turkey hunting in the Ouachita National Forest in the late 70’s and now the turkey population has spilled over into Ozark National Forest and into our area.” Springtime is turkey hunting time, Behel said. “One thing I enjoy about outdoor activities for the most part is it’s pretty much an independent activity,” Behel said, “you don’t have to rely on an organization or coordinating with a lot of people. I’ve always liked the independent nature of it.” Behel has fished many areas around the state and enjoys stream fishing, having fished the length of the Buffalo National River and Crooked Creek catching smallmouth. “The Little Red River is a national treasure, a wonderful fishery for rainbows and browns,” Behel said. There’s little anxiety in the woods for him, Behel said. “I feel very experienced in the outdoors, because I’m not a young man any longer,” Behel said. “I feel as comfortable in the woods as anywhere. I sort of consider that as home, and I enjoy traversing the woods and seeing a lot of different areas, different land forms. I enjoy a lot about the outdoors other than the hunting and fishing. I enjoy seeing lots of different plants and non-game species of animals. It’s always a welcome change to leave the classroom or going to meetings and then being able to go out into the outdoors.” Any kind of weather is good for the outdoors, Behel said. “I enjoy the cold weather in the outdoors as well as the warm weather,” Behel said. “I might have an opportunity to go out on any day of the year. In the fall, when bow season comes in and the rut comes in, even if it’s just an hour or so before dark, I enjoy going then. It’s very do-able.” that here in Searcy you can be deer hunting, duck hunting or crappie fishing in a matter of minutes from downtown Searcy. — Dr. Jimmy Behel SearcyLiving.com 15
Passing it on to the next generation is part of Behel’s experience as well. “From time to time I’ve taken students hunting and fishing,” Behel said. “Most of the time it’s somebody that already has an interest. Sometimes I take a kid who might not have had an opportunity to go because no one in their family has the knowledge to do it. For many years back in the ‘70s I worked at Camp Dakota and I’d take them on float trips. I’ve always enjoyed sharing my interests with the younger guys.” The beauty of Creation is everywhere, Behel said. “I’m a Christian and I’m very cognizant of the fact that I see
God everywhere, and probably in the most pristine form in nature. I’ve always felt like outdoor activities were pristine in concept,” Behel said. “I find it very refreshing and rejuvenating to be able to go out where it’s quiet, even if it’s for just an hour every day. It gives a person time to think quietly without a lot of interruptions. I think it is very rewarding for most people being in that type of setting, away from the hubbub that goes on all the time. It certainly has value beyond the recreational aspect. “I’ve always found it relaxing because it’s just me and the outdoors,” Behel said.
Only four months after heart surgery Jimmy Vandiver climbed 30 feet into this deer stand to bow hunt. He says sometimes he just studies his Sunday School lesson up there.
her first fish, that was, ‘Wow!’ – better than if I had Born in Jasmine on the edge of Raft Creek, Jimmy caught a world record.” The boys to whom he taught the Bible at First Vandiver has seen his preferences for outdoor Baptist Church were naturally among his outdoor enjoyment change over his 79 years. “It’s an old family tradition,” Vandiver said. “My students, too. “One time I had my Sunday School class of ninth dad, Carl Vandiver, hunted everything. He took me grade boys in my boat up at Greer’s Ferry Lake,” duck hunting when I was very young.” Without the benefit of modern insulated boots, Vandiver said. “I said, ‘Boys, fish near that treetop.’ young Jimmy wore only rubber boots while sitting But I threw my bait behind the boat and caught the only three-pound crappie I’ve ever caught in on a log, his feet in foot-deep water. “I would take one foot at a time out of the water Arkansas.” Vandiver said one boy, Clint Aclin, would mess up and prop it up on a log because my feet were so cold,” Vandiver said. “When the ducks came in I Vandiver’s hair on Sundays at church, so Vandiver told him, “I’ll get you could hardly get for that.” my safety off in “So we were all dove time.” hunting once and I told At one time the boys, ‘Now when beautiful in God’s creation than these beautiful ducks he was obsessed we get ready to go with squirrel coming down through the timber. I’ll give you a signal hunting. and we’ll all quietly “For 17 years — Jimmy Vandiver get in the truck. Don’t I killed my limit tell Clint,’” Vandiver of eight every said. “I gave them the time I went on a morning hunt,” Vandiver said. “I was relieved the day signal and they all got in the truck, but Clint saw us I failed to kill my limit. I killed only seven. I started and came running up as we were pulling away. Each time he almost caught up with us I’d pull away again. losing my interest, although I still do it today.” The beauty of nature is awe-inspiring for Vandiver. I hollered back at him, ‘Clint, I told you that you “I love the trees,” Vandiver said. “The bigger they messed up my hair too many times.’” Joey Cunningham, another of the boys Vandiver are the more pristine it is to me.” taught, is now retired from the U.S. Army and a Respect for nature is also important. “I will not shoot a deer any more unless it’s one I senior civilian leader at the Pentagon . “I told the boys to keep shooting at a deer after they want for meat,” Vandiver said. “It doesn’t bother me to not kill a deer because I’ll just sit out there and hit it the first time, if it were still moving,” Vandiver enjoy. Sometimes I study my Sunday School lesson.” said. “So we were deer hunting once and I heard Joey In 2012, shortly after quadruple bypass surgery, shoot, ‘Bang!’ Then in a moment I heard more shots Vandiver was out in the woods again, climbing into in rapid succession, ‘Bang! Bang! Bang! Bang!’ I guess the deer had twitched some after it fell from deer stands. Like other avid sportsmen, Vandiver has introduced that first shot and Joey did what I told him to.” These days Vandiver’s favorite outdoor activity is generations of young people to the outdoors, and he duck hunting. heads up the annual Optimist Kids Fishing Derby. “There’s nothing any more beautiful in God’s “I enjoy watching the kids,” Vandiver said. “When I got my little granddaughter out there and she caught creation than these beautiful ducks coming down through the timber,” Vandiver said. 16 Your Hometown Magazine
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Nathan King
Photos by George Dillin
“I see a lot of people my age that seem more interested in video games and don’t really know what they want to do with their life, but that’s not me. I’m not one to sit around; I want to see the world. I’ve learned a lot of stuff out here, working hard, that you wouldn’t learn in the classroom or anywhere else. To me, hard work is the biggest thing you can do for yourself. I enjoy working hard then getting to see something come out of it. The feeling of satisfaction after hard work is something you can’t get anywhere else.”
1967 Chesnutt 206 The plane belongs to Nathan’s father and grandfather. It is a 1967 Chesnutt 206 Model. Nathan tries to fly a couple of times a week, but sometimes, due to other commitments, is unable. Nathan received his Private Pilot Certification in September 2012. He began working on certification in 2009 and has over 100 hours flying time. He likes the freedom of flying. “I enjoy being a couple miles above everything, and getting the bird’s eye view. It gives me a whole new perspective.”
Peterbilt 18 Wheeler This is one of four 18-wheeler trucks his family owns. They use the trucks for harvesting rice and soybeans; taking the harvest from the field to the granaries. Occasionally they may take rice or soybeans in storage to processing facilities or driers. Nathan appreciates the power of the big trucks, and, as harvest time can be stressful, he enjoys driving them, especially when the air conditioner is working.
1985 Big Red 250 ES Honda The 3-wheeler is a 1985 Big Red 250 ES Honda. Nathan has four similar to this one, as he enjoys collecting and restoring them. He gets 3-wheelers that have been sitting for years and run or look like junk, then works on them and makes them run and look like new. He values the 3-wheelers because they are rare to a certain degree now, and are not seen around as much. Nathan said there is a nostalgic feeling and factor with the 3-wheelers, and they can give him a little more challenge than a 4-wheeler. “Plus it’s a Honda, so I can beat it up and it still runs great and lasts a long time.” 18 Your Hometown Magazine
Hustler Amphibious All-Terrain-Vehicle
This is a Hustler Amphibious All-Terrain-Vehicle. The original, from the factory, was a Model 945-HK. It was made by a manufacturer in Jonesboro in the early 1980s. There is now a First Security Bank where the old factory stood. The Amphibious ATVs are usually not seen much in the south but are used more in the north in the snow. “A lot of people may think this is an Argo, but it is not. Argos are made in Canada.” It is basically like a plastic tub that steers like a bobcat motor. “It was sitting on the edge of a field for more than ten years, so I asked a guy about it and he gave it to me, since it probably would just sit there until they hauled it to the junkyard. I redesigned the internal parts to make it easier to use, and updated it so you could get maintenance parts. I strengthened everything, rebuilt the transmission and frame. I basically rebuilt the whole thing. I enjoy reconstruction and put about a year and a half of work into the ATV.”
John Deere Model 8310R Tractor The John Deere tractor, Model 8310R, is a 2012; one of the newest tractors the family owns. “It’s one of the tractors we use and we use it for everything from spring tillage and planting to putting up levees.”
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fashion
Fun
Before
20 Your Hometown Magazine
We are so grateful for all our generous sponsors. Many thanks to April Robertson at Salon Milan, Doris Yates at Cosmetic Studio, and Abby Miller of Hays for giving Morgan a beautiful day! Portrait credit: Christine Walker of Searcy Living.
Sponsors
Christine Locke Makeover Coordinator
3005 E. Race St. • Searcy (501) 268-0800
In the Heart & Soul Plaza 1623 E. Beebe-Capps • Searcy (501) 279-2526
In the Town & Country Plaza 207 N. Poplar • Searcy (501) 268-7035 SearcyLiving.com 21
22 Your Hometown Magazine
SearcyLiving.com 23
Story and Photos by Hannah Elliott IN SEARCY
Faith Home Family
While walking through the home of Hugh and Stephanie Kleypas, I kept thinking of a very popular social site called Pinterest. The home is modest with old and new furnishings that complement the style of the dĂŠcor. Many areas that Stephanie decorated incorporate various pieces that she has picked up from flea markets, thrift stores and other places. Her creative way of displaying items made every area in a room put you at ease.
24 Your Hometown Magazine
The
K leypas
Family
The living room and dining room are the most formal, but the placement of lamps, trays, baskets, photo frames, books, pillows and other items gives the rooms an atmosphere that is relaxed. The tranquility extends through the windows of the living room with a serene view of the back patio and yard. The kitchen also has the same type of atmosphere, with lamps and candles placed on counters and the table. The fabric Stephanie used for curtains in the kitchen is old burlap coffee bags, picked up from a local coffee roaster. She has unique tablemats made of leather with a patchwork pattern. The Master bedroom is simple, with a less traditional headboard and side tables. There is one more traditional side table, with the other being a small suitcase on top of a suitcase rack. Old family pictures are displayed on top of the dresser next to an old glass bottle with bracelets looped over the neck.
 The tranquility extends through the windows of the living room with the serene view of the back patio and yard. SearcyLiving.com 25
The fabric Stephanie used for curtains in the kitchen is old burlap coffee bags, picked up from a local coffee roaster.
The kitchen has a serene atmosphere, with lamps and candles placed on counters and the table.
“The
The tablemats are made of leather with a patchwork pattern.
Kleypas home is the kind of home that you can walk into and feel like you belong.”
26 Your Hometown Magazine
The spare room is decorated with rustic furniture and ornamental items. There are old snow shoes over the headboard of the bed and ice skates hanging from the strings over the dresser mirror. A small artificial pine tree decorated with family pictures in little frames sits in an old wooden box on the dresser. Down the hall, filled with framed family pictures, are the boys’ rooms. Their rooms are the least like the rest of the home, as they reflect more the interests of the boys. Nate’s room is decorated in a Dallas Cowboys football team theme while Ryan’s has a comfortable and laid back feel. The back patio offers several areas for seating. The patio is surrounded by plants, including vines, bushes, and herbs in pots, facilitating a serene setting. Beyond the patio is the in-ground pool and a small garden. Landscaping is scattered around the pool as well as the large wooden deck attached to the garage. The garage has a leisure room in the back for watching movies, with a restroom built in that doubles as a tornado safe room. The Kleypas home is the kind of home that you can walk into and feel like you belong. It’s easy to envision life being shared with friends, family, and visitors in and out of the home on a regular basis. The family is welcoming and there is an underlying feeling of contentment among them. The simple yet creative way the home is decorated reflects the temperate nature of the family; that being their faith is what gives them fullness in life.
The Master bedroom is simple with a less traditional headboard and side tables. There is one more traditional side table, with the other being a small suitcase on top of a suitcase rack.
Old family pictures are displayed on top of the dresser next to an old glass bottle with bracelets looped over the neck.
SearcyLiving.com 27
Friends Family Heart Ryan’s room has a comfortable and laid back feel.
Nate’s room is decorated in a Dallas Cowboys theme.
The spare room is decorated with rustic furniture and ornamental items. There are old snow shoes over the headboard of the bed and ice skates hanging from the strings over the dresser mirror.
28 Your Hometown Magazine
The patio is surrounded by plants, including vines, bushes, and herbs in pots, facilitating a serene setting.
Beyond the patio is the in-ground pool and a garden.
The garage has a leisure room in the back for watching movies, with a restroom built in that doubles as a tornado safe room.
Go to SearcyLiving.com to see more home galleries! SearcyLiving.com 29
Wesson Wins at Arkansas State Fair Jessica Wesson of Searcy won the Reserve Grand Champion Commercial Yearling Ewe and the Reserve Grand Champion Breeding Sheep Showmanship awards at the 2012 Arkansas State Fair. She received two Rosettes and two Champion banners. Jessica was the breeder for her winning ewe, named Darla. Jessica is a member of White County 4-H and attends eighth grade at Ahlf Junior High School in Searcy. Her parents are Sherri and Kyle Sanders and Jeremy and Sandra Wesson of Searcy.
“ to go all out for them. Have great dreams and dare to live them. Have tremendous expectations and believe in them.” — Norman Vincent Peale
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Junior Auxiliary to Host Annual Charity Benefit to Enhance the Lives of Children in White County JA’s Annual Charity Benefit will be held February 23, 2013 at 6:30 p.m. at the Searcy Country Club located at 2729 West Country Club Road. This year’s theme is “Naturally Made in Arkansas” and JA will feature Arkansas made items in the silent and live auctions. Mr. Reynie and Mrs. Ann Rutledge will be honored as the 2013 King and Queen of the Benefit Ball. Mrs. Rutledge is a Life Member of Junior Auxiliary of Searcy and Mr. Rutledge is the Chairman of First Security Bankcorp. “As Junior Auxiliary members we help children with caring and compassion that pours out into our seven projects. Our mission is to meet the needs of children and their families by sharing our time, talents, leadership and the money we raise each year at our Charity Benefit,”said JA Finance Chair Ashley Harvey. Some of the items for the silent and live auctions are: a ride on the Crain’s plane to a Razorback baseball game and dinner for two, 2-night fishing trip with cabin on the Little Red River, tickets to Arkansas Travelers and NWA Naturals games, a party on a houseboat on Greers Ferry Lake, an art party with Kelly Vanhook from Second Saturday Studio, and much more. There will be a large buffet and a live band (Boom Kinetic). For more information on ticket prices and where to purchase tickets, please send an email to junior.auxiliary@yahoo.com, send a message on Facebook or text (501) 400-0778. Junior Auxiliary of Searcy is a 501(c)3 non-profit organization whose purpose is to render charitable services which are beneficial to the general public, with particular emphasis on children. JA projects are designed to fulfill the virtues of Charity, Youth, Health, Community Service, and Leadership in members and those it serves. JA believes that by caring today we build character for tomorrow.
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Searcy Public Schools Teacher of the Year, Cheryl Simmons, receives her Regional Teacher of the Year award from Governor Mike Beebe and Education Commissioner Dr. Tom Kimbrell.
Students from the Business Club at Arkansas State UniversitySearcy, a technical campus of ASU-Beebe, visited the Greystone Branch of Centennial Bank in Cabot recently. Branch Manager Michelle Rogers gave the students a tour of the bank and provided valuable employment information for careers in the banking field. Rogers (left) is pictured with students (left to right) Savanna Fowler of Weiner, Elaine English of Bald Knob, Marissa Smith of Judsonia, and Karen Osborn, Shana Honse, Ardith Minneweather, and Amanda Upchurch, all of Searcy. The students are pursuing technical certificates in office occupations, which prepare students for various entry-level business careers. Students complete classes in computer software, along with actual on-the-job training experiences 32 Your Hometown Magazine
Ireland, Mexico, Germany, Puerto Rico, Holland, Italy, Scotland, Philippines, Belize, India, Vietnam, Spain... Fifth Annual
International Food Fest & Silent Auction Go to SearcyLiving.com for event date. St. James Parish Hall – 1102 Pioneer Rd, Searcy Advance Tickets: $8.00 - At the door: $10.00 Children 6 and under Free Silent Auction Items will be listed in the Daily Citizen Raffle for Four CASH Prizes: $1000 • $500 • $250 • $250
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Forty-eight Searcy High School students have been named to the All-Region Choir, and four were chosen as alternates. Pictured are All-Region members (front) Courtney Mowdy, Laurel Fitts, Victoria Pulliam, Adelyn Havens, Charity Barnes, Alana Niederbrach, Rachel McCready, Lawrence Maizon, James Brewer, Osvaldo Perez, Taylor Touchet, Yuli Sosa, Kenna Daggett, Sadie Henson, Dianna Bartilson , (center) Kayla Skalinder, Marlee Bennett, Allie Wilbourn, Anna Barnes, Taylor Sledge, Carissa Snow, Kristen Meeker, Jackson Wilson, Adam Moore, Cory Wright, Austin Shaw, Cole Sanders, Tyler Touchet, Jacob Stewart, Kennedy Turley, Kara Treadwell, Emily Dunn, (back) Hannah Stewart, Brooke Bailey, Logan Davis, Emily Parker, Maegan Franklin, Reagan Feltrop, Katherine Jimerson, Neale Zeringue, Hal Niederbrach, Tyler Norris, Jordan McGrath, Jordan Ladyman, Travis Cloutier, Morgan Pruitt, Ashley McCord, Lizzie Bailey, (not pictured) Catherine Duncan, Molly Wheat, AJ Maizon, and Michel Hamby.
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The Bookstack Blog he Bookstack Blog was born of imagination and parental problem solving. Sierra and Khya Carson, two homeschooled sisters, wanted desperately to participate in social media. Their mother wanted desperately to instill a love for reading and writing. The answer to everyone’s frustration came in the form of a blog. The girls would write book reviews as they completed their reading and Mom would allow them to post their reviews to their very own blog, which the girls named using their imaginations and an online Thesaurus. The blog went live in May, accompanied by its very own Facebook page. There you will find inspiring quotes, book reviews, and the occasional give-away! Though they will not be granted permission for their own social media profiles for some time, they can still participate in social media in a healthy and exciting way. The girls are responsible for typing their reviews, making corrections after Mom plays editor, and posting them to
The Cricket in Times Square
both the blog and the website. Status updates on the facebook page are allowed and encouraged. The sisters have invited other children to send in their reviews and have even featured contributing authors on their website. Plans for the future include interviews with authors and a book club for kids. If you are interested in becoming a contributing author for The Bookstack Blog or would like to get your child involved, email info@thebookstackblog.com. Happy Reading! Note: The girls have chosen pen names for their blog. Sierra is known as “Rockin’ Robin” and Khya is known as “Little Sunshine”.
by George Selden
The Cricket In Times Square is a book about an adventurous, musical cricket from Connecticut. While Chester searches for food at a hometown picnic, he ends up on a train headed to New York City! When the train stops at Times Square, the excitement begins! Chester meets a family who owns a newsstand, a mouse who has an eye for talent, and a friendly cat while in Times Square, but are his new friends and his show schedule enough for Chester the Cricket to be truly happy? I really enjoyed reading about Times Square and hope to visit NYC one day soon. I definitely recommend The Cricket in Times Square! — Little Sunshine, age 9 38 Your Hometown Magazine
thebookstackblog.blogspot.com www.thebookstackblog.com facebook.com/thebookstackblog
Adam of the Road by Elizabeth Janet Gray
Adam of the Road by Elizabeth Janet Gray is a historical fiction book about a boy named Adam and all of his adventures. Adam is eleven, and has pretty well raised himself. Adam’s father is a minstrel in London. When Adam was old enough, he was able to travel across London with his dad, Roger. Adam’s closest friend is his dog Nick. Along the way Adam meets many people and makes lots of new friends, but when Adam loses both Roger and Nick, how will they find each other again? I would recommend this book to anyone over the age of eight. I loved Adam’s personality! He was such a good spirit and always had his head held high. This character and I are close to the same age and it is hard to imagine dealing with the things Adam faced in his journey. As a young minstrel there is a lot of music involved in his job. I love music and sing all of the time! This book is definitely my favorite so far and I will always love it. — Rockin’ Robin, age 10
Valentine’s Day: Chocolate covered strawberries, decorated cookies, handmade gourmet chocolates, and cupcakes are some of the things we will have available on Valentine’s Day for your special ones. We are now taking orders, but will also have some extras available in store that day. Sassy Sweets • 405 N. Walnut • 501-278-5463
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Story and Photos By Hannah Elliott
Myers had the ideal life. She was the Executive Manager at a car dealership S andi in North Little Rock, making great money, and yet, completely unknown to her, she was
dying. Not only was she unaware of how her life was drastically about to be changed, but what also eluded her was that she could have taken measures in her own hands to prevent what was about to come. On Easter Sunday 2008, Sandi had a heart attack in her home. “I hadn’t been feeling good all weekend, and I didn’t know I was having a heart attack.” Sandi did not have all the typical symptoms, so she didn’t even go to the hospital. “I just lay on the couch and didn’t do much.” Sandi said she couldn’t get comfortable or even stand up, and though her heart beat was rapid she didn’t have any pain. The next day some of Sandi’s friends came and took her to the emergency room. It was then that the doctors told her she had experienced a heart attack caused by stress. She was very fortunate to not have any blockage, but was put on several medications for high blood pressure, triglycerides, and high cholesterol, as well as an antidepressant. Sandi didn’t know that she had been doing everything wrong. Due to her high stress job with 14-16 hour days, 6 days a week and dealing with traffic during her commute to Little Rock, she was eating fast food all the time, not getting enough exercise, drinking diet sodas, and consuming a lot of sugar and caffeine. “I was a chocoholic. I kept a 5 pound bag of candy in my desk for myself and employees; sometimes that would be my lunch. I drank a lot of diet soda.” The heart attack was a wakeup call for Sandi and she knew something had to Sandi shared some symptoms and indications change. “I felt like God had a different plan for me.” Knowing that she had to of poor health that she has seen the most have a job to pay bills, she decided to leave her job at the dealership anyway, while sitting in during counseling sessions. because her health was more important. She was working on her house at the time and would drive past the Natural Food Store on her way to Lowe’s to get • Fatigue: # 1 Issue materials. One day she noticed a sign at the food store that said they were hiring • Digestive Problems: #2 Issue a full-time position. She stopped to get an application and later returned for an • Depression: #3 Issue interview with Perry Ambrose and Cas Rifkin, the store owners at that time. • Chronic Infections all over the body “They didn’t want to hire me; they said I wouldn’t stay. I convinced them that I • Arthritis would stay and begged for the job.” • Fibromyalgia Sandi didn’t have any experience working in a health food store but began doing a lot of reading and research after she was hired. She also spent time • Diabetes reading about all the harmful side effects of the medications she was on and • Hormone issues made the choice herself to stop taking all of her meds. She does not recommend • Heart disease that to others, as it was a personal decision she made for herself. She started • High blood pressure taking supplements and vitamins to combat her symptoms naturally. Within a • ADD & ADHD month to 6 weeks of doing this, she was well on the road to feeling better; “The better I felt the more determined I was.” • Tourrette’s Syndrome (in kids and adults) 40 Your Hometown Magazine
Even more, Sandi cut out sugar, sweeteners and artificial sweeteners and started taking probiotics as she learned that all healing begins in the digestive system. “I still love chocolate, but I eat dark chocolate with 85% or more cocoa because it has very little sugar and takes a lot less to satisfy a chocolate craving.” She said she only uses Stevia, though there are a few other sweeteners that are low on the glycemic index. “I try to eat a lot of raw vegetables, and I use coconut oil to cook with and flavor as a replacement for corn or vegetable oil. I also use olive oil.” She eliminated fast food, though she does go out for an occasional treat as she stated the well known tip, “All things in moderation. I did have a piece of pecan pie on Thanksgiving Day, but I can’t afford to indulge in that every day.” Since working at the store, Sandi’s health has improved immensely. She has lost about 20 pounds, and except for the occasional routine checkup, she doesn’t have a need to go to the doctor anymore. “Most things I can take care of naturally.” Sandi’s dentist is even amazed at how well she is now. “My gums used to be inflamed, and really my entire body was full of inflammation. My dentist said my skin was gray, my gums were bad and he said to me, “You were so full of inflammation. You were dying.” Two years ago, Perry called Sandi into the office and informed her that he was selling the Natural Food Store to her. Sandi took ownership of the store January 1, 2012, and Perry stayed on as a counselor 2 or 3 days a week, officially retiring December 31st. She has been training under him for 4 years and is highly involved in nutrition counseling. Sandi is so grateful for her health now and emphasized how very important it is to have a spiritual connection as a part of whole health. God did have a different plan for her life and it is evident today. “w I love showing them what they can do for themselves and what diet they can do; how they can stay away from certain things and it alters their life so much that they feel compelled to share their own story.”
Other tips Sandi learned through her journey: • • • •
All healing starts in the digestive system - when you get this healed you can eliminate a lot of your symptoms. Sugar feeds and makes the following worse: - Inflammation - Arthritis - Kidney infection - Candida (can manifest as sinus, joints, stomach, bronchial)
Diet Soda can actually make you gain weight.
To help cut back on sugar intake - most people who refrain from sugar for about 2 months will notice that the sugar cravings subside and that they don’t want it all the time.
“
more invigorating to me than to be able to help someone with what they’re doing and then have them come back in a few weeks and tell me how it’s changed their life.” — Sandi Myers
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Go to bed ½ hour earlier and wake up ½ earlier than usual.
Go to your favorite store to pick out a journal and start writing.
Read at least 15 minutes a day.
Organize your junk drawer.
Have a daily quiet time.
Start an exercise program for 15 minutes a day.
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Get together with friends at least once a month. Start a Debt Reduction Plan.
Write out an evening routine that will prepare you for the next day.
Have a family night to play games, eat together, or do something fun as a family.
By Beth Dargis of the My Simpler Life blog. www.mysimplerlife.com
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“Having thus a fond affection for you, we were well pleased to impart to you not only the Gospel of God, but also our own lives, because you had become very dear to us.” -I Thessalonians 2:8
K-Life is a community-wide, interdenominational
Christian ministry of discipleship and fellowship for youth and their families. Through a variety of activities (weekly clubs, small group Bible studies, and monthly events), K-Life kids grow in their faith and have lots of fun in the process. They learn that following Christ and discovering His plan for their life is the most exciting adventure of all and that they can count on friendship and support from leaders and peers who care. K-Life works alongside churches and families in the community to teach and encourage kids to be strong in the Lord in spite of all the negative pressures they face as teenagers. As parents, one of the most important things we can do for our children is encourage them to build positive, Godly relationships. By doing this, kids are better equipped to withstand the negative peer pressure so prevalent in today’s youth culture. The heartbeat of K-Life lies in the ability to build relationships with kids and bring the content of God's word to bear on those relationships. Our desire is that kids would choose to participate in one of our small groups led by our staff and volunteer leaders. The purpose of these groups is for kids to gain a greater knowledge of God's Word, build Godly relationships with peers, and have access to a mentoring leader to come alongside them as they navigate those difficult adolescent years. Supporting and surrounding our small group strategy are the more visible components of our ministry: weekly club meetings, activities, events, and retreats. Weekly meetings consist of songs, games, skits, and talks that contain a lesson with a relevant life application from the Bible. Please visit the K-Life website for more information at http:// searcy.klife.com/index.php 44 Your Hometown Magazine
STAFF Josh Monroe Originally from Milwaukee, Wisconsin, Josh Monroe graduated from Harding University in 2010 with a BA in Oral Communications and a minor in Youth Ministry. After graduating, he spent a year teaching High School and Middle School History and Bible at Christian Academy of Greater St. Louis in St. Louis, Missouri. Last year Josh lived in Montrouis, Haiti, serving the Canaan Christian Community as a teacher and men's facilitator for the boys in the orphanage. Josh's favorite pastimes include softball, disc golf, and anything sci-fi or fantasy related, specifically (but not limited to) Star Wars. This is Josh's first year working for K-Life. Josh can be reached at (262) 707-5194 or by email at josh.monroe@klife.com Beki Martin Beki Martin started working for Searcy K-Life this past August as the Women’s Director. Beki is originally from Tahlequah, Oklahoma, and graduated from the University of Arkansas in Fayetteville in May 2012 with her Bachelor’s in Communication. Throughout her college career Beki was involved as a small group leader and summer intern in church youth groups. It was through those experiences that she discovered her passion for impacting a youth culture for Christ, and ultimately was led to a career in the youth ministry. She is so excited to be at Searcy K-Life, and to see what the Lord has in store for the youth of our city. Beki can be reached by email at beki.martin@klife.com Giving To K-Life K-Life Ministries depends entirely (100%) on the generous charitable support of our friends and partners who join with us in desiring to impact a young generation for Jesus Christ. Your gift to our ministry is greatly appreciated! If you would be willing to contribute to K-Life, donations can be mailed to: K-Life, P.O. Box 1772, Searcy, AR 72145 or you can donate electronically by visiting the K-Life website.
Super K (5th & 6th grade) Meets every Thursday after school 3:15-4:30 Jr. High (7th & 8th grade) Meets every Tuesday evening 7:00-8:30 Sr. High (9th-12th grade) Meets every Monday evening 7:00-8:30 All Clubs meet at the K-Life house (new location) located at 810 N. Elm in Searcy. Schedule & Location for Small Groups TBD – Please visit the website for small group information. http://searcy.klife.com/index.php SearcyLiving.com 45
White County 4H White County 4H participated in a “one day of service” community service project. Many clubs throughout the county participated. Although 4H is about helping the community all the time, this was one day that was chosen to all go out and make an impact in different ways. Our club, the Westside Clovers, chose to pick up trash at Berryhill Park. Even though it was the first cold day of the season, we had a great number of dedicated kids show up to participate. 4H does so much to teach our children about the ways their positive actions can have such a great impact on our community. The 4 H’s in 4H stand for Head, Heart, Hands and Health. They are the four values members work on through fun and engaging programs.
• Head - Managing and thinking. • Heart - Relating and caring. • Hands - Giving and working. • Health - Being and living.
If anyone is interested in finding a club in your area, please contact Amy Heck or Morgan Canter at the White County Cooperative Extension office 501-2685394.
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1000!
The Searcy Living Foster Care Boutique is simply a room we have dedicated in the Searcy Living business office. Our awesome Searcy Living readers bring in donations and DHS case workers and foster parents get what they need for foster and disadvantaged children at no cost. Our office is located at 812 S. Main Street in Searcy. We welcome gently used or new items. Thank you, Searcy, for your generosity and time spent to support the Foster Care Boutique!
We do our best to provide “shopping” bags for the foster parents and case workers so they can fill it up for every child. This also helps us keep up with approximately how many children are being served. So far we have gone through over 1,000 bags in nearly three years! Thanks to you for helping!!!
A special thanks to Oakdale Nursing Home for their donation!
Miranda Miller, Morgan Miller, Brecklin Webber, Hynleigh Webber, Meredith Webber, Lindsey Webber Collected from friends for Meredith's Birthday.
Camera Shy Donors: MOPS- Mothers of Preschool Students Tiger Club Den 1 Pack 98 Mother’s Day Out at First Baptist Church 3,4, & 5 year old classes
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Special Thanks to Bradford Senior Beta’s Sock Drive!
Needed Items for the Foster Care Boutique: • Baby Shampoo • Hair Brushes • Volunteers to sort (no need to call for appointment, just stop by the Searcy Living office during volunteer hours between 1pm and 5pm.)
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Thanks for the donation from the 16th Section Union Church Sunday School! Back Row: Taylor McGaha, Ashlynn McCoy, & Christin Crawford Middle: Josey Jackson and Jude Jackson Sitting: Connor Shaw and John Curtis Jordan
Thank you to Bikers for Foster Kids for the awesome diaper donation.
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ASU - Searcy Nursing Students spent an afternoon organizing the Foster Care Boutique.
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I've always been told, "You can't have your cake and eat I gotten myself into? My wife and I
it too." I think I have found a way around that old saying. Back in early 2001 I started taking flying lessons. My older brother had been a pilot for several years, taking me places and showing me the wonder of aviation. After the kids got older I was able finally to start taking lessons myself, starting in a Cessna 152. My instructor told me it would be harder for me as I was starting out later in life. I laughed, but later I found out she was right. Did I mention my instructor was a lady? That's right. And I can't tell you how many times I got my hand slapped for not demonstrating the correct procedure. Training for my private pilot license took several months. Flying several times a week till finally I passed my check ride and obtained my private pilot license. Wow! Now I could fly by myself anywhere. Did I mention that my wife started taking instruction at the same time? She also obtained her private pilot license. We made many trips, for vacation, for fun and for lunch or dinner. During this time I also obtained my instrument rating and my muti-engine rating. Stopping at an airport for fuel one day, I came across a brochure for Angel Flight. Angel Flight South Central encourages pilots to volunteer their time and aircraft to help transport those in need of critical medical treatment which otherwise would be unavailable to them. The volunteer pilots provide this transportation at no cost to the patients or passengers. I thought what a great way to enjoy flying and at the same time be able to help make a difference in the lives of others. After checking the Angel Flight web site for the qualifications to become a volunteer pilot, I eagerly signed up. After receiving approval, I signed up for my first mission. The day of the flight was a day filled with anticipation and fear. What have
awaited the connecting flight bringing our passenger to the Searcy airport. Once the plane landed, we greeted our passenger and prepared for take off. Our leg of the flight would last about 2 hours. During the flight we were able to get to know our passenger. Our hearts melted as their story unfolded. The countless trips to the doctor for tests, chemo, checkups and more tests. All the while keeping a positive outlook on the future. We saw this time and time again with every passenger we flew. I am so appreciative of the many life lessons learned from the passengers we have flown. I have gained far more than I have ever given during my time with Angel Flight. So, to those Lyn and I have flown, I say thank you. Flying is addictive and so is helping others. Can you have your cake and eat it too? The answer is yes. Now give me another big slice! To find out how to volunteer, or if you or someone you know can benefit from the services Angel Flight South Central provides, go to www.angelflightsc.org. Do it today, you'll be glad you did.
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The Number One Ingredient for Health Improvement in 2013 In over 24 years of practice, one of the amazing things that I have observed is the ability for virtually anybody to improve their health status. Regardless of genetics or age, most individuals can see an improvement in their physical health, which is a tribute to the design of the human body. In my early years of practice, I read accounts from several different doctors that would talk about knowing which patients were more likely to improve their health and those that were more than likely not going to improve. There was generally no explanation that they gave other than stating the fact. As I proceeded in practice, I observed patients that improved and those that in times did not improve and found one of the key ingredients to improving one’s health status. You may want to sit down and brace yourself when I give you the key ingredient to improving your health. What is that key ingredient? Desire! Wishing or wanting something is not good enough. There is an old saying that says, “If wishes were horses, beggars would ride.” It takes more than a wish or a want to improve your health. It takes a strong burning desire. An attitude that says I will do whatever it takes at any cost to achieve what I want to achieve. When the doctor says it can’t be done, it’s impossible, or we have never seen this happen before, my money is on the person with a strong desire. A strong desire will find answers when there are none, a story that shows up in the movie theaters years later sparked by strong desire. So now it is your turn. Are you ready to change your health in 2013? You can start by a strong desire and visualizing what it is you want to obtain. One of the greatest joys in practice is being able to observe a patient with a strong desire that we attach a game plan to and watch them change. It is a beautiful sight.
Let us help you have a healthier 2013!
Dr. Tim Kamerman is the founder of The Chiropractic Care Clinic on Hawkins Drive in Searcy. If you have any questions, comments, or would like to schedule an appointment with Dr. Kamerman, please call (501) 268-2273.
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OVER THE COUNTER Harding University Center for Drug and Health Information
Proper Insulin Use and Storage Article by William Doles - Dr. of Pharmacy Candidate 2013 Rodney Richmond, RPh, MS, FASCP, Faculty and Director of Center
Currently about 1 in 10 Arkansas residents have been diagnosed with diabetes. Of these people, many will require daily insulin injections to control their blood sugar. Insulin is a chemical found in our bodies that allows us to use the sugar that we eat. If we do not have enough insulin, or our bodies become resistant to it, dangerous problems can occur including coma, seizures, blindness, and death. That is why it is so important that insulin be properly stored, handled, and injected so that it works exactly as designed. Insulin is very sensitive to temperature, so unopened vials should remain in the refrigerator until they are first used. You should also always check the expiration date on every vial of insulin before using it. Most vials of insulin are good for one month after the first use, but may range from 14 days to 42 days, so speak to your pharmacist about your specific brand of insulin you use. One common mistake seen is that patients will leave their insulin in the car, but this can be very dangerous. Insulin is broken down by high heat or extreme cold, so be sure to store any opened vials of insulin at room temperature. I encourage all diabetic patients to speak with their pharmacist about the proper storage and use of their insulin, because it is truly a life and death issue.
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Send us your photos: SearcyLivingPhotos@yahoo.com
Show your support for life and help raise money at the same time! Purchase an Official Choose Life Arkansas License Plate for the rear of your car. You can obtain one through direct purchase from the Department of Finance and Administration. Let’s make the readership of Searcy Living the BIGGEST supporters for life in the state!
“
By all the means you can. In all the ways you can. In all the places you can. At all the times you can. To all the people you can. As long as ever you can.” — John Wesley
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Hey guys, had to take this picture while in Haiti this past trip. One of our favorite kids, Joel, was representing Searcy Living... Y’all have gone Global. Thanks for all you do and the message you are getting out in the community!
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One of my greatest passions is to see people come to live in complete wholeness. It is a desire of my heart to share this passion, because I know it changes lives. I see the benefits of wellness in our whole makeup: that is physical, mental and spiritual being. I love to see others alive; the spark of life that flickers in their eyes and radiates from their inner self. When we are well in one area, it spreads to the rest of our being. Knowing that many factors can have an effect on our wellness makes simplifying our lives at home important. Life can be chaotic and busy so having a home that is inviting to you and company enhances the quality of life. I enjoy having time to invest in enriching others lives as well as my own. I know the wellbeing of others is improved due to the ripple effect that occurs from the wholeness I experience. I have always been good at organizing and keeping spaces clean, but through the process of moving several times and living a busy lifestyle, I found it hard to keep up with housework and projects I wanted to do. It came to the point where I would be so busy that when I was home, the last thing I wanted to do was tackle tasks that seemed too large to complete in a couple of hours. This is not a way I wanted to live, so I searched for ways to simplify my life at home. I found two different blogs that stood out to me and I wanted to share them. The blog that Kelly has (imperfecthomemaking.com) was my main inspiration for the decorative side of organizing. She put an emphasis on making space in the home feel pretty because it would be easier to keep organized. I love how she talks about clutter (because it can look different for everyone): “Clutter is the stuff that is keeping our homes from being what we need them to be. Clutter is too much and too many. Too many toys. Too many clothes. Too many things to do on a Saturday morning. Clutter complicates life without adding anything to it.” “Clutter is the meaningless getting in the way of the meaningful.” Kelly encourages using items that are sentimental, not just storing them in a closet where there is a chance they could be destroyed by water damage, or eaten by mice. There is a post she shares about a friend who lost her grandmother’s pristine linens because mice ate them. While some of the ways she organizes may be too radical for everyone, I still appreciate her ideas and it spurred me to do something that worked better for my home. After all, everyone has different styles and different systems. When I finished the 31 days to an organized home, I began looking at another blog to help maintain the work I had just done. Beth, a certified family manager coach, has the blog, mysimplerlife.com. The main item I pulled from this site is her 12 month Declutter and Organize Calendar. She has realistic ways of keeping a home decluttered and organized by doing one simple item every day. In addition to consistently working on making your home organized, she also breaks up the days every week with an activity that adds to the quality of life. Whether it is taking a walk in nature, taking a nap, reading a novel, reflecting, spending time with family, or doing something for you, she makes a point to bring inspiration into your life. Recently I joined several friends in having a huge garage sale. One friend came to my house to help price items and transport them to the site of the sale. While we were working and visiting, I mentioned my journey of decluttering and my friend laughed and replied, “Oh yeah, because your house is so cluttered!” I thought to myself, “Success!” The feeling of accomplishment was worth all the hard work and months of preparation! Provides a 31 day calendar (Kelly) 60 Your Hometown Magazine
Pretty spaces are fun to keep tidy. Have less stuff than you have room for. If every space is filled, your whole system will break down the first time you come home with something new. You don’t need expensive organizing tools in order to have an organized home.
Provides a 12 month calendar with daily tips of organizing your home and improving your quality of life. (Beth)
Photo credits www.imperfecthomemaking.com for all article pictures.
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Santa Fe Slow Cooker Chicken
If you have a slow cooker and only a few minutes early in the day to prepare for dinner later that same day, this is the recipe you’ve been waiting for. When I tried this recipe for the first time I had my doubts about it being worth eating, much less sharing with friends. Boy, was I surprised! The chicken just falls apart similar to shredded chicken once it’s cooked. Go buy a bag of organic tortilla chips to serve with this and that’s all you’ll need. It’ll be perfect if we have more snow! (Gluten free if served with gluten free tortilla chips!)
place 1 pound frozen boneless skinless chicken breasts (organic if possible) 1 can organic black beans, drained 1 can organic whole kernel corn, drained 1 medium jar of your favorite salsa (homemade, hot, mild...whatever!) 4 ounces cream cheese
Place frozen chicken breasts in the slow cooker and top with the drained beans, corn, and salsa.
cook
Cover and cook on high for 4 to 6 hours or on low for 8 to 10 hours.
add
Add cream cheese and allow it to soften a few minutes then stir all the ingredients.
enjoy
Serve with tortilla chips. Serves 4 to 6. Tanya Turner Leckie’s cookbook Cartwheels In The Kitchen, is available at Wear It’s At, Midnight Oil Coffee House, Harding University Bookstore, on eBay, and by contacting her at lazydaygourmet@sbcglobal.net
You can find more recipes on SearcyLiving.com!
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ACROSS 3. Wiley Blansett volunteers in this organization. 7. What is the meaningless getting in the way of the meaningful? 8. What is a ministry for youth? 10. Sandi Myers says all healing starts in this system. 11. The Kleypas home is the kind of home where you feel like you_____ . 12. Naturally made in _____. 13. Nathan King is satisfied by this.
Riddles
DOWN 1. Chemical found in our bodies to allow us to use sugar. 2. What is said to be the key ingredient to health? 4. Head, heart, hands and _____. 5. This giant was a Florida State Record. 6. Start a _____ reduction plan. 9. The Bookstack Blog is the answer for 2 kids desperately wanting to participate in this media.
STUMPED? Get the answers, play games, download wallpaper and tons more online at SearcyLiving.com!
The more of them you take, the more you leave behind. What are they?
What fastens two people yet touches only one? 64 Your Hometown Magazine
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66 Your Hometown Magazine
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