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NOVEMBER 2016
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INSPIRATION FOR EVERYDAY LIVING
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Des M oi nes & S u r ro u n d i n g C o m m u n i t i e s
www.simplygoodmagazine.com
JOIN US ON OUR JOURNEY…
With Tips for Living Wholeheartedly & Stories to Keep You Looking Up
Unlock the Magic…
Merry BE
&
Bright
Phone
and experience the charm of Pella, Iowa
Be inspired by decorations throughout and a Christmas tree filled with a variety of “Chrismoose on the Loose” at Thistles Flower Shop in Pella, Iowa. Signed copies of the first edition of A Chrismoose Mystery are available for purchase and a companion product is available in limited supply for “adoption.” ABOUT THE AUTHOR: Lois Vermeer, a former school teacher, is the wife of 48 years to Bob, mother of Dan, Heidi, and Allison, and grandma to nine “Blessings.” Her purchase of Thistles Flower Shop in Pella, Iowa, inspired her first children’s book, A Chrismoose Mystery. ABOUT THE ILLUSTRATOR: Joe Hox grew up on a farm where he helped with lots of cattle and pigs but never saw one moose. Joe now lives with his wife and their three children in Pella, Iowa, where he enjoys teaching art and filling up sketch books. This is his first children’s book.
For more information, call (641) 628-9360 or visit thistlesflowership.com. Book sale proceeds will go to the Pella Christian Grade School Expansion Fund. Supplies are limited, so reserve your copy now for holiday gifts.
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INSPIRATION
You will be enriched in every way so that you can be generous on every occasion, and through us your generosity will result in thanksgiving to God. This service that you perform is not only supplying the needs of the Lord’s people but is also overflowing in many expressions of thanks to God. —2 Corinthians 9:11, 12
If you concentrate on finding whatever is good in every situation, you will discover that your life will suddenly be filled with gratitude, a feeling that nurtures the soul.
―Harold Kushner
‌for everyday living
Simply Good Magazine invites you to join us on a journey of discovery as we connect local people and their inspirational stories to share within our community. PUBLISHER Becky Johnston, CCO Becky@SimplyGoodMagazine.com CONTRIBUTORS Amanda Marsh, Art Director Craig Light, Community Outreach CREATISTA/Shutterstock.com Keith McIntyre/Shutterstock.com Rob Crandall/Shutterstock.com Militarist/Shutterstock.com Megan Rochelle Photography Dan Welk, Click! Photography Jeff Felton, greenmonoclephotography.com Shutterstock.com ADVISORY COUNCIL Michael Carver, CCIM Vice President—NAI Optimum Vernon Delpesce, President, Vedco, Inc. Angela (Williams) Jackson, Owner The Great Frame Up Donald F. Lamberti, Founder Casey’s Corporation Jeramy Landauer, President
EXPLORE 10 The One Brain Wellness Weekend…Hosted By Erin Kiernan and Sonya Heitshusan Leading With Power… Men Balancing Life, Career and Family
Landauer Publishing
THRIVE 22
Greg McCall, Owner—Clean Des Moines
in
Mike Schreurs, CEO—Strategic America Heidi Vermeer-Quist, Psy.D.
Bev Wood—Simply Good Connections
For Kids: Kindergarten to College and Beyond…Welcome Them Home with Cinnamon
Holy Bible, New International Version® NIV® Copyright ©1973, 1978, 1984, 2011 by Biblica, Inc.® Used by permission. All rights reserved worldwide.
Rock Your Metabolism This Holiday Season…A Simple Strategy for Busy Women
Simply Good Media LLC Urbandale, Iowa 50323 (515) 554-2700
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© 2016 Simply Good Media, LLC November 2016
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Inspiration for Everyday Living
SHINE 32 Honoring America’s Heroes… With America's Family Coaches Making Life Better For Everyone… Foster Group’s Commitment to Community Involvement
A SIMPLY GOOD WELCOME… From the Editors
Many of us have heard of the wonderful work of Blessman Ministries in South Africa as they care for thousands of children orphaned by AIDS. For many years, Dr. Jim Blessman practiced in Des Moines before he and his wife, Beth caught the vision for bringing the Good News and life-giving food and optical care to those less fortunate in other parts of the world.
ALICIA ECONOMOS Author, Speaker, Coach WOW! Wholehearted Living LLC Alicia Economos is the founder and director of “WOW! Wholehearted Living.” Drawing from twenty-plus years of working with clients, Alicia is also a sought after speaker. Audiences benefit from her insights, heartfelt enthusiasm as well as Alicia’s surprisingly simple approach to living wholeheartedly. Alicia’s books and coaching series include thought-provoking and empowering tools that can help women gain freedom and peace in their own lives.
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Alicia snapped the photo below, with Dr. Blessman, just before he returned to Africa. She will be sharing the inspiring work of the many local volunteers who serve with Blessman Ministries in our Holiday issue. Isaiah 52:7 says, “How beautiful are the feet of those who bring good news, who proclaim peace, who bring good tidings, who proclaim salvation, who say to Zion, ‘Your God reigns!’” This fall, as you walk through the stories and inspirational quips we’ve shared, think about how you could use your own feet to spread the Good News. Perhaps that means sharing an article from this issue, gifting friends or family with a subscription or delivering dinner for someone in need. It might simply be offering a smile and warm greeting to someone in a coffee shop who could use the light of Christ that shines out from you to brighten their day. As you fully embrace that Good News, you will be lit up from the inside out. And again, Jesus’ own words are very clear, “Don’t keep a light under a basket. Instead, put it on a lampstand so all can see it. In the same way, let your light shine before men, so they may see your good deeds and glorify your father in Heaven.” (Matthew 5:15)
Yours for the Journey, Alicia Economos & Becky Johnston
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BECKY JOHNSTON Chief Creative Officer Simply Good Media LLC With more than 40 years of publishing experience, Rebecca Wayne Johnston (Becky) creates books, magazines, and branded editorial products from concept to completion. With a degree in journalism from Drake University, she draws upon many years of hands-on editorial development— from senior magazine editor for Better Homes and Gardens Special Interest Publications to Landauer Publishing and as a founding partner of BeInspired Network.
A STRANGER’S FOOT IN THE DOOR… Brought Thanksgiving Dinner to Our Family
By Katie Little
To say that Tony Robbins' life started off rocky would be an understatement. But instead of letting these challenges hinder his success, they are a core part of what's fueled him to become a best-selling author, self-made millionaire and philanthropist.
In an interview with CNBC, Robbins recalled getting chased out of the house with a knife by his mother when he was 17 and being physically abused by her as a child. “If my mom had been the mother I thought I wanted, I wouldn't be as driven; I wouldn't be as hungry,” he said. “I wouldn't have suffered, so I probably wouldn't have cared about other people's suffering as much as I do. And it made me obsessed with wanting to understand people and help create change.” Instead of feeling sorry for himself, the author of books such as “Money: Master the Game” and “Awaken the Giant Within” turned his early life setbacks into a springboard for growth. “I was a kid and my alcoholic parents were fighting. My father, a metal tools salesman, lacked confidence in his ability to be a good provider, and my mom enjoyed making it clear that he wasn’t. It was Thanksgiving and we had no dinner. I remember that there was a knock at the door, and I answered to find a tall man holding a box of food, an uncooked turkey in a roasting pan at his feet. I had no idea where it came from, but I was elated. But all my dad saw was a handout. ‘We don’t take charity,’ he barked, and went to shut the door. But the man stuck out his foot. ‘Someone wants you to have this,’ he said. ‘Don’t let your ego get in the way of taking care of your family.’ My father took the meal and slammed the door without thanking him. I cooked the turkey, and that night we ate like kings. My father left us a few days later. That experience taught me the power of a
stranger’s concern, and it set off a ripple effect. When I was 17, I asked my local church for the names of two families in need. I had saved enough money from my janitorial job to buy groceries and deliver them anonymously. The next year, I fed four families. Then eight. As my career grew, did my ability to provide. I know the joy of giving as both the recipient and the provider. You don’t have to be rich to buy someone a meal. That Thanksgiving delivery changed my future, and turned the worst time of my life—my dad leaving—into the best time, because it taught me who I didn’t want to become...and who I did.” Editor’s Note: After growing up in a household where food was scarce, Tony Robbins went on to make the largest donation from an individual ever to Feeding America, which provides 100 million meals to hungry Americans through its network of 200 local food banks.
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UNLEASH THE POSSIBILITIES
In wisdom gathered over time I have found that every experience is a form of exploration.” —Ansel Adams
STEP INTO THE MESSINESS OF YOUR OWN LIFE… Present Over Perfect By Shauna Niequist
Reviewed By Alicia Economos Founder/Director of WOW! Wholehearted Living
Women will find the advice hits closest to home. Niequist’s latest book is her most satisfying blend of mindfulness, scripture, and self-help to date, offering readers the blueprint for a life lived in the real instead of the ideal. —Publishers Weekly
What might it feel like, if you learned to give up the drug of busy and pleasing others? What if, instead, you were to take hold of a deeper connection—with yourself, with God and with other people? In a world of addiction to being busy and obsessing over image, many women find themselves exhausted, disillusioned and disconnected. Author Shauna Niequist offers another way of living—with a simpler, slower and more meaningful approach. In this phenomenal book—maybe one of my top two favorites of all time—Shauna shares stories of her own; as a woman, wife, mother and writer, she provides insight into the disappointment and loneliness we can all feel as we live with comparison and the need to prove our worth. She helps the reader to see that we can be so busy pursuing things we think will bring us happiness, that we fail to realize they haven’t delivered— and never will. Shauna is gut-wrenchingly honest about her own experiences, which is so refreshing. In turn, she invites you to step into the messiness of your own life, and her stories provide the inspiration and courage to do so. In summary, Shauna invites you to consider letting go of what may have initially seemed good, in order to make room for “great”—the life God has in store for each one of us; letting go of perfect, and instead, choosing to be present.
ABOUT THE AUTHOR: Shauna Niequist is a best-selling author of books including Cold Tangerines, Bittersweet, and Bread & Wine. Shauna grew up in Barrington, Illinois, and then studied English and French Literature at Westmont College in Santa Barbara. She is married to Aaron Niequist, a pianist, songwriter and worship leader at Willow Creek Community Church. Shauna and Aaron live in the suburbs of Chicago with their sons, Henry and Mac.
P.S. After reading this book, among other things, I bought myself a pair of beautiful, comfortable pajamas. (After reading the book, you’ll understand why.)
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WOW! WHOLEHEARTED LIVING…
Using Your LEGS to Enjoy a Wholehearted Holiday
If you were asked what you want to remember from the upcoming holidays, would it be stress-filled days searching endlessly for the perfect gift for everyone? Will you hope for snapshots of yourself looking frazzled, having too many things to do? What if, instead, you used your “LEGS,” to have a more enjoyable holiday season?
ABOUT THE AUTHOR: Alicia Economos is the founder and director of Wholehearted Living and the Wholehearted Coaching Certification Program. Alicia is the author of three books and the Wholehearted Bible study. She is a sought-after speaker who is regularly featured in Simply Good magazine, sharing simple but effective tips for living wholeheartedly. Drawing from her twenty-plus years of coaching experience, Alicia shares the simple steps to gain healthy relationships with God, yourself and others. With a fast-paced, interactive and often humorous approach, she shares empowering tools that can help you experience peace, confidence and joy in your own life.
L: Let go of unrealistic expectations. Do you or your family really need perfectly decorated cookies, or presents that look like they were wrapped by Martha Stewart? Maybe these are unrealistic expectations that rob you of peace.
E: Excel at listening. One of the greatest gifts we can give another person is the gift of listening—and that means listening with our undivided attention. Due to constant interruptions, giving someone your complete attention can be a valuable gift. G: Give encouragement. This time of year tends to make all of us feel tired and stretched beyond our limits. Therefore, especially at the holidays, speak words that provide affirmation and encouragement—to others and to yourself!
S: Simplify. Have you stopped to consider the fact that you’re an adult—one who has the ability to make wise choices about what she will and will not do? So, why not choose to do less? Choose to buy less.
If you’re willing to simplify your holidays, you might be surprised at how much more you could enjoy them. Just remember, to enjoy the holidays wholeheartedly, use your LEGS!
Today’s Tip: Consider ignoring the phrase “not good enough,” and instead focusing on the truth: I am enough, exactly as I am. I have nothing to hide, nothing to fear, nothing to prove and nothing to lose.
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THE ONE BRAIN WELLNESS WEEKEND… Hosted By Erin Kiernan and Sonya Heitshusan
At Honey Creek Resort, women had opportunity to work out, as well as time to enjoy the gorgeous grounds and scenery. If you haven’t been there, you’re missing out on a gem. Author, Speaker and Heart Coach, Alicia Economos, helped participants relate life to a fun and successful road trip. She emphasized the importance of having the following: A “vehicle” that’s in good working order and well-maintained. Fuel in the tank. Clarity about your destination, and, directions to help you get there. Participants embraced their current status: feeling stuck in neutral, lost on another detour, or that they need to go in the body shop for some work! In the road trip of life, we’ve all encountered road bumps and some unexpected detours. Learning to live wholeheartedly means we can have a peace
Erin Kiernan, Alicia Economos and Sonya Heitshusan Photos provided by: Jeff Felton, greenmonoclephotography.com
Reviewed By the Editors of Simply Good Magazine
and joy, despite any circumstances—including the twists and turns along the way. With over 3 decades of experience in the health and fitness industry Alicia shared the 3 secrets to living wholeheartedly: Silence your inner critic. Discover and celebrate who you are. Pursue your purpose with passion.
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The Adventure…
It all ends and begins with my feet. Where will I go? Where will they take me? I don’t know. It all started in my head or maybe it was my heart. Was it the chicken or the egg? It’s so hard to tell apart. Either way, it did begin. I saw a man who was different from his inside-out. I heard words that casted truth with no trace of doubt. My ears listened and heard, then my head was filled with thoughts and words. And they grew. My heart got involved…beating stronger, growing bigger, filling in fullness, feeling deeply, birthing passion, then blooming joy. A sense of knowing and feeling of belonging. Rightness. Oneness. Wholeness. A desire grew. I needed to not sit, but do. I needed to no longer just think and read. I needed to become. I needed to be. In order to be, I needed to do, so my hands started working and love transformed and grew. And there I was. No longer able to take a seat…I needed to move not just my hands, but now my feet. I needed to share and spread the Good News. I needed to go out and love because that is what a heart was meant to do. It’s what it does. So let’s go feet. Get on your shoes. We have lives to save and hearts to renew. Time to make a difference. Create a loving beat. It all starts somewhere, but it will truly end and begin with the movement of my feet. —Stephanie Geiger
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A JOURNEY OF THE HEART…
From California Sunshine to Four Season in Iowa By Cathy McCall
Looking back on how my life changed in an instant from wife and mom to widow and mom reminds me of the story of the widow Naomi and her daughter-in-law, Ruth who followed God’s leading to a strange and foreign land. The journey from sunny California to four seasons of much less sun and lots more of wind, rain, snow and ice in Iowa was certainly as challenging a transition as that of Naomi and Ruth.
The chain of events for this unexpected journey began on September 7, 2000 with the call that my husband and father of our three sons had been killed in a fiery crash on the freeway near our home in Orange County. It was early in the morning and Bobby was a strong, 42-year-old construction project manager on his way to work in his pick up truck. On that day when my world seemed to collapse, God sent the pastoral team from Chuck Swindoll’s First Evangelical Free Church in Fullerton to my home to pray and comfort me in my grief. It was a beautiful September day and we walked through the gate that led to my backyard where the pastors formed a circle for prayer. Suddenly, someone noticed that despite the clear skies all around, a light rain had fallen on our prayer circle that was followed by a rainbow that spanned the blue sky overhead. For me, it was God’s sign that he would walk with me through this valley and I would never be alone. While my faith was tested on a daily basis as I navigated through the many challenges of finding myself suddenly a single parent, I always believed that God would provide for my emotional needs as well as my physical needs. As a widow in mid-life, for me that meant a husband and companion whose first priority was serving God. I claimed Romans 8:28 as the verse that would carry me through the next seven years of widowhood: “And we know that in all things God works for the good of those who love him, who have been called according to his purpose.”
During those long seven years, halfway across the country in the heartland of Iowa, business owner, Greg McCall was slowly rebuilding his life after a previous marriage. For much of that time, neither of us dated and when we finally did—me in California and Greg in Iowa—we experienced dating disasters. Through many long years of patiently waiting, that call came just as unexpectedly as the first call that changed the course of my life forever. I knew from that first phone call that God said, “This is the man for you.” Greg was interested, but not fully sure, until we met on his first trip to California. After that, I flew to Iowa and we were engaged. We realized that God had orchestrated every moment of our introduction, courtship and eventual marriage on May 12, 2007. Our friends had prayed for a “Ruth” for Greg and a “Boaz” for me. I’m thankful each day for the sorrow and joy of the unexpected blessing that brought me to Iowa.
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LEADING WITH POWER…
Men Balancing Life, Career and Family By Greg McCall Men of Impact of Des Moines lwpdsm.org
Thursday, November 10th: Andy Wyatt, Founder and CEO of Cornerstone Capital Management “Without Leadership, Nothing Happens”
ANDY WYATT, Founder and CEO Cornerstone Capital Management
SAVE THE DATE: On Thursday, December 8th, join with other men leading with power and Randy McPherson, the founder of Abra Collision Centers and self-described “serial entrepreneur” as he presents “Number One Key to Success: Fail Often!”
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On Thursday, November 10th, join with other men leading with power for work and life inspiration from Andy Wyatt. Be inspired by Andy as he shares his life experiences and personal testimony that have impacted many lives. He is the founder and CEO of Cornerstone Capital Management, a research-driven, global equity specialist dedicated to superior performance and an exceptional client experience. For more information or to R.S.V.P. for the upcoming Power Lunch call (515) 577-4341, visit lwpdsm.org or email info@lwpdsm.org.
Power Lunch with Andy Wyatt
Thursday, November 10th • 11:45–1:00pm Holiday Inn Downtown at Mercy Campus • 1050 6th Avenue Top of the Tower • Des Moines • Free Parking
SIMP LY G O OD | N O VEM B ER 2016 | SI M PLY G OO D M AG AZ I N E. C OM |
AUTUMN MEMORIES…
Adding Our Own Love, Joy & Beauty to the Changing Seasons of Life By Joseph J. Mazzella There were a hundred hints of Autumn in the wind when I took my dogs outside one morning. The air was cooler and drier than it had been for months. The Queen Anne’s Lace and Black Eyed Susan’s seemed to be shivering in the late September sun. Our puppy, Fluffy was carrying around a freshly fallen leaf in his mouth. Overhead a flock of ducks seemed to be debating whether or not it was time to head south. I breathed in deep and smiled. This was my favorite time of the year. I closed my eyes for a moment and was amazed when a thousand Autumn memories mixed and mingled in my mind. I was a four year old carrying an armful of colorful leaves into the house to give to my Mom. I was a young boy riding my bike down a hill with the wind whistling past my face. I was standing on the football field before practice laughing with my friends. I was riding the school bus watching the changing leaves with my lunch box on my lap. I was walking in the woods wondering why some leaves turn a rich red, while others turn a brilliant yellow and still others turn an awe inspiring orange. I was a young dad pushing my son and daughter on the swings at the schoolyard on a Saturday afternoon. I was raking a crunchy carpet of Maple and Oak leaves into a pile in my Dad’s front yard so my niece and nephew could jump in them. I was walking around a local lake with my children taking in the fall colors and wondering why the prettiest season seemed to be the shortest. I was sitting on my back porch drinking tea, thanking God for another glorious Autumn afternoon and wondering if in Heaven it was Autumn all of the time. As I bathed my mind in these memories I looked forward to another wonderful Autumn here and thanked our Heavenly Father for this special season. I remembered what Ralph Waldo Emerson had once said: "Beauty is God’s handwriting." I wondered too if God had a special pen just for Autumn. We are all traveling through time in this world. We are all strolling through sweet seasons in this life. We are all creating memories every moment of everyday. May we always take the time then to appreciate all of God’s wonders. May we always take the time to add our own love, joy, and beauty to them.
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NAVIGATING THE BLENDED… “Yours, Mine and Ours” Holidays
By Jean Holthaus, LISW, MSW Pine Rest Christian Mental Health Services Pella Clinic Therapist and Manager
Four Parents, Sixteen Grandparents, Ten Christmas Celebrations, Split Holiday Vacation…While this could be some strange rendition of “The Twelve Days of Christmas” it actually represents the challenging reality blended families face. The holidays add stress every family must navigate, but those stressors multiply exponentially within blended families.
One step-mother described it as “attempting to hit a moving target.” But while the holidays create unusual and stressful circumstances for blended families, they also offer unique opportunities to bond around both new and well-established traditions. By taking some practical steps, blended families can enjoy a holiday season filled with peace and wonderful memories while simultaneously minimizing any stress, conflict, and pain experienced. Five strategies for minimizing the “Yours, Mine and Ours” blended family holiday stress include:
Jean Holthaus, LISW is a Licensed Independent Social Worker. She is currently a practicing therapist and clinic manager at Pine Rest Christian Mental Health’s Pella Clinic.
Pella Clinic 2611 Washington Street Pella, Iowa 50219 (641) 628-9599
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1. Plan…Plan…Patiently Plan. Adults and children within blended families must have a clear understanding of what is going to happen as far ahead of time as possible. Spontaneity can and should occur, but children (and adults) become more anxious when plans are not clearly established. The National Stepfamily Resource Center (formerly the Stepfamily Association of America) advocates for parents to plan, communicate with former spouses and relatives, and put travel plans and itineraries in writing for children and adults involved so everyone knows what to expect. This is particularly important if parents have remarried because children may not have a place that feels like home. Understanding where they will be and what they will do while they are there helps children feel they are included and belong.
2. Communicate and then…Communicate Again. Communicate openly with former spouses, new partners and all children involved about both holiday plans and gift buying. Children are relieved when the adults in their lives demonstrate civility and respect toward one another. While the behavior of others is never within your control, conflict can be minimized by making the children’s needs the priority and working to remain calm and in control of your own behavior regardless of the behavior of others. If children will be attending multiple holiday celebrations, communicating about proposed menus and dinner times creates a more enjoyable experience. Coordinating gifts purchased to avoid duplication is extremely important so children don’t have to negotiate uncomfortable situations.
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It is also important to communicate about how and when children will have down time and how to pace things to avoid overwhelming them. Including all children (both step and biological) in as many activities as possible is important and requires open communication so schedules remain manageable for everyone involved. 3. Something Old and Something New. Holidays don’t have to be done “The way we’ve always done it.” Combining old and new traditions is important. Talk about what traditions are important to each individual and be particularly sensitive to anyone sharing this holiday with the family for the first time. Don’t assume stepparents want to go along with the way things have always been done without having input. Keep traditions which fit and establish new traditions honoring changes. Remember what the holidays signify within the family and prioritize activities which best fit this meaning. The holiday frenzy causes many to forget both the meaning of the holidays and the fact that what matters most to children is what happens the other 364 days of the year. Hectic schedules can cause parents to neglect simple activities communicating love and keeping the family connected. Hugs, family fun times, bedtime stories, and meals together create connectedness and should remain priorities.
4. Equity Matters. Step-parents and step-grandparents did not chose all members of the new family configuration, but should welcome, embrace and love every member of the family…even prickly adolescents who say they “hate” the new family. Children watch how others within the family are treated, so strive for equality in time and in gift giving. Step-parents and stepchildren should choose gifts that feel appropriate to their unique relationship. Grandparents, step-grandparents and extended family should be encouraged to be equitable in gift giving to all biological and stepchildren present.
5. Talk about Feelings. No matter how long ago the family structure shifted, children struggle with loss. Being with Mom means not being with Dad and often feels disloyal. Be sensitive to children’s losses and give them permission to have conflicting feelings. Listen, hug and reassure them through their expressions of sadness, anger or “wishes” that things were different. Give children permission to enjoy both households and be clear that you will be okay while they are away from you. This frees children from loyalty binds and from feeling responsible for your well-being. Navigating your blended family through the holidays can feel like making your way through a field of landmines at times. However, by implementing these strategies, many of the land mines can be removed and the potential to enjoy time as a family increases substantially. SI MP LY G O OD | N O V EM BE R 20 16 | SI M PLY G OO D M AG AZ I N E. C OM |
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MANY HANDS FOR HAITI…
Many Hands for Haiti: Local Hands. Global Hearts. Transformed Lives. If you have ever struggled with the question of how to help developing countries like Haiti, you are not alone. Many in these nations face malnutrition, unemployment, and poverty. But, that is where organizations like Many Hands for Haiti (MH4H) are making a huge impact and they are making it simple for you to help.
Tim Brand, the executive leader of MH4H and President of The Mango Tree and Many Hands Thrift Market, has been involved in Haiti since 1998. Tim received his B.A. in Computer Information Systems from Central College and his Masters in Management from University of Phoenix. Tim is married to Catie, with two children: Abbie and AJ.
www.mh4h.org www.manyhandsthrift.com /ManyHandsForHaiti (641) 629-6633
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“We believe God has called us to transform lives of children, families, and communities in Haiti through the presence of Jesus Christ. We seek a nation transformed from the inside out,” shares Tim Brand, Executive Leader for MH4H. Since 1998, God has placed on Tim’s heart a call to serve the people of Haiti. And since then, God has grown MH4H in amazing ways. In 2016, MH4H has been able to provide over 1.4 million meals, sponsor over 300 children, build over 700 safe homes for 4,000 people in rural areas, provide 120 P.E.T. carts to the lame, and create over 7,000 day jobs for locals. And that’s just the beginning. “This level of community development builds an amazing trust with people. They see we are willing to walk with them in their day-to-day struggles. They see the gospel in action.” With MH4H running multiple programs on the ground in Haiti, many in the local community are being supported in ways they never dreamed possible. “Many Hands for Haiti coming to Haiti was like water that never stopped flowing. Everyone has benefited,” shared Elvéus, father of a sponsored child. And that flowing water comes from Christ, the provider of living water. (John 4:14)
“In the work we are called to do, we want to be the hands and feet of Christ. To share the gospel in both word and deed. The gospel needs to be central to all we do, it is life,” explains Tim Brand. One way that MH4H helps to support their life-transforming work in Haiti is through their Many Hands Thrift Market stores, which help generate profits that are used to these life-giving programs. “People ask us, ‘How can I help when the problem is so large?’ We started our thrift stores to answer this question, by giving people ways to make an impact.” Many Hands Thrift Market provides opportunities for people from the local community to get involved and make a difference, without making the trip to Haiti. 100% of the proceeds generated by these stores go to support work in Haiti, where parents like Elvéus and his kids benefit directly. “We understand that not everyone can come to Haiti. Our thrift stores provide people with opportunities to share in shining the light of the gospel. By volunteering, giving back through our Local Impact Program, or even just simply donating unwanted items, lives are transformed. Every dollar raised makes a difference between life and death for families in Haiti,” shares Tim Brand.
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simply
thrive
BODY, MIND & SPIRIT
My mission in life is not merely to survive, but to thrive; and to do so with some passion, some compassion, some humor, and some style. —Maya Angelou
ENJOY HEALTHY EATING FOR LIFE…
With Easy, Delicious Recipes From the Daniel Plan Signature Chefs Based on The Daniel Plan book, The Daniel Plan Cookbook: 40 Days to a Healthier Life is a beautiful four-color cookbook filled with more than 100 delicious, Daniel Plan-approved recipes that offer an abundance of options to bring healthy cooking into your kitchen.
No boring drinks or bland entrées here. Get ready to enjoy appetizing, inviting, clean, simple meals to share in community with your friends and family. Healthy cooking can be easy and delicious, and The Daniel Plan Cookbook is the mouthwatering companion to The Daniel Plan book and The Daniel Plan Journal to help transform your health in the most headturning way imaginably— from the inside out. The foundational principle for Daniel Plan eating is one of abundance, not deprivation. This is not a diet; it’s a plan you adopt for the rest of your life. It’s a new way to live. Pastor Rick Warren recruited three nationally known doctors—Daniel Amen, M.D.; Mark Hyman, M.D.; and Mehmet Oz, M.D.—to coach him in getting healthy and help design the Daniel Plan. All three doctors graciously volunteered their expertise and time for free because they care about our health. Pastor Rick Warren shares, “In this cookbook you will find a menu of American classics that don’t compromise taste and that will help you live healthier and give you energy to fulfill your God-given purpose.”
SI MP LY G O OD | N O V EM BE R 20 16 | SI M PLY G OO D M AG AZ I N E. C OM |
MEALTIME CELEBRATIONS: Through The Daniel Plan, we believe we get well in community; it’s our “secret sauce.” So the most ingredient in all your recipes are the people you choose to share them with. We have made getting together for a Daniel Plan-style potluck or party a breeze with fun menus and themes. You’ll discover the healing power of dining in community. Here’s a sample theme: The Daniel Plan Brunch offers the best of both worlds: a little sweet and a little savory. • Berry Protein Smoothie (page 78) or Very Cherry Smoothie (page 77) • Gluten-Free Pumpkin Waffles (page 73) • Garden Patch Omelet (page 67) • Cobb Salad (page 117) or Shrimp Salad Spring Rolls (page 176)
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A JOURNEY OF FAITH… I Will Never Leave You
Naomi Loses Her Husband and Sons
In the days when the judges ruled, there was a famine in the land. So a man from Bethlehem in Judah, together with his wife and two sons, went to live for a while in the country of Moab. The man’s name was Elimelek, his wife’s name was Naomi.… Now Elimelek, Naomi’s husband, died, and she was left with her two sons. They married Moabite women, one named Orpah and the other Ruth. After they had lived there about ten years, both Mahlon and Kilion also died, and Naomi was left without her two sons and her husband. When Naomi heard in Moab that the Lord had come to the aid of his people by providing food for them, she and her daughters-in-law prepared to return home from there. With her two daughters-in-law she left the place where she had been living and set out on the road that would take them back to the land of Judah. Then Naomi said to her two daughters-in-law, “Go back, each of you, to your mother’s home. May the Lord show you kindness. Then she kissed them goodbye and they wept aloud. Then Orpah kissed her mother-in-law goodbye, but Ruth clung to her. “Look,” said Naomi, “your sister-in-law is going back to her people and her gods. Go back with her.” But Ruth replied, “Don’t urge me to leave you or to turn back from you. Where you go I will go, and where you stay I will stay. Your people will be my people and your God my God. Where you die I will die, and there I will be buried. May the Lord deal with me, be it ever so severely, if even death separates you and me.” When Naomi realized that Ruth was determined to go with her, she stopped urging her. So the two women went on until they came to Bethlehem.… So Naomi returned from Moab accompanied by Ruth the Moabite, her daughter-in-law, arriving in Bethlehem as the barley harvest was beginning.
Ruth Meets Boaz in the Grain Field
Now Naomi had a relative on her husband’s side, a man of standing from the clan of Elimelek, whose name was Boaz. And Ruth the Moabite said to Naomi, “Let me go to the fields and pick up the leftover grain behind anyone in whose eyes I find favor.” Naomi said to her, “Go ahead, my daughter.” So she went out, entered a field and began to glean behind the harvesters. As it turned out, she was working in a field belonging to Boaz, who was from the clan of Elimelek. Just then Boaz arrived from Bethlehem and greeted the harvesters, “The Lord be with you!” “The Lord bless you!” they answered. Boaz asked the overseer of his harvesters, “Who does that young woman belong to?” The overseer replied, “She is the Moabite who came back from Moab with Naomi. She said, ‘Please let me glean and gather among the sheaves behind the harvesters.’ She came into the field and has remained here from morning till now, except for a short rest in the shelter.” So Boaz said to Ruth, “My daughter, listen to me. Don’t go and glean in another field and don’t go away from here. Stay here with the women who work for me. Watch the field where the men are harvesting, and follow along after the women. I have told the men not to lay a hand on you. And whenever you are thirsty, go and get a drink from the water jars the men have filled.” At this, she bowed down with her face to the ground. She asked him, “Why have I found such favor in your eyes that you notice me—a foreigner?” Boaz replied, “I’ve been told all about what you have done for your mother-in-law since the death of your husband— how you left your father and mother and your homeland and came to live with a people you did not know before. May the Lord repay you for what you have done. May you be richly rewarded by the Lord, the God of Israel, under whose wings you have come to take refuge.”
FOR KIDS: KINDERGARTEN TO COLLEGE AND BEYOND… Welcome Them Home with Cinnamon
By Kathryn Kinley, LMT, NCTM, CRDP Compassionate Spirit Therapies yldist.com/vibrantoils
Nothing makes a home more welcoming than the warm, sweet scent of cinnamon. Misting cinnamon oil in the air or baking it in your favorite traditional recipes will make them feel “at home” instantly!
Kathryn Kinley earned degrees from Iowa State University and Buena Vista University. After 17 years in credit management for Fortune 500 companies, and following 5 mission trips to a special needs orphanage near Montego Bay, Jamaica, Kathryn determined her calling was to be more “hands on” in ministering to those who hurt. In 2006 she achieved National Board Certification in Therapeutic Massage, followed shortly thereafter by certification in the use of therapeutic grade essential oils. Kathryn has a thriving private practice in West Des Moines, Iowa. She enjoys offering her loyal clients the experience of “Transcending to Vibrant Health.”
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Cinnamon comes from an evergreen tree that is part of the laurel family. Cinnamon oil is an excellent source of manganese, which plays an important role in collagen production, making this mineral important for everyday skin health. Adding a tiny drop of cinnamon oil to ¼ cup or more coconut oil will provide a warm smelling balm for your wind-whipped skin, giving you an autumn glow! If you prefer to ingest it, you can dilute 1–2 drops of Cinnamon Vitality™ with vegetable oil in a vegetarian gel capsule and take as a dietary supplement to support your radiant skin as well as regular digestion, and help maintain a healthy immune system. My favorite way to infuse cinnamon’s compounds and warm, inspiring fragrance in my home is to diffuse several drops of Young Living’s® Thieves™ Essential Oil Blend (containing cinnamon, clove, eucalyptus, rosemary, and lemon) along with a few drops of YL’s Orange Essential Oil in my diffusers scattered about in the kitchen, baths, and play room. Guests think I have been baking all day!! And speaking of baking….using an essential oil that is FDA approved for ingestion, such as the Young Living Vitality™ line, skyrockets the nutritional punch of your favorite recipes to new heights! When ingested, the substances in cinnamon oil have been shown to help promote healthy blood viscosity and help maintain healthy blood sugar levels. Seasoning a high carb food with cinnamon oil can help lessen its impact on your blood sugar levels, by improving our cells’ ability to absorb and use glucose from the blood and slowing the rate at which the stomach empties after meals, reducing the rise in blood sugar after eating. Cinnamon oil’s compounds also provide nutritional support for joint mobility and cartilage formation, as well as ligament, muscle, and bone health. These statements have not been evaluated by the FDA. Information provided here is for educational purposes only. It is not for diagnostic or prescriptive use or to be construed as instruction on how to diagnose, cure, treat or prevent any condition, illness or disease. If you have a health challenge, see the health care professional of your choice.
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CINNAMON APPLE POWER BITES…
Healthy, Gluten Free, Vegan, Power Bites That Taste Just Like Apple Pie! By Kathryn Kinley, LMT, NCTM, CRDP Compassionate Spirit Therapies yldist.com/vibrantoils Cinnamon Bark Vitality ™ is your secret weapon in the kitchen. If your recipe calls for ground cinnamon, Cinnamon Bark Vitality™ Essential Oil is very easily substituted. But please remember, therapeutic grade essential oils are much more potent than flavoring grade. So “start low and go slow,” beginning with just a toothpick dipped into the oil and swirled into your recipe. The perfect partner to anything apple, add Cinnamon Bark Vitality™ to applesauce, apple juice, or apple pie to create a scrumptious fruit-and-spice fusion. You’ll find Cinnamon Bark Essential and Vitality Oils’ transformative power so versatile that you’ll want to make sure these oils are always close at hand in the kitchen, bath, and every room of your safe, warm, welcoming home!
Ingredients: 1 c. dried apples (not freeze dried) 1/2 c. medjool dates, pits removed 1/2 c. unsalted dry roasted almonds 1/2 c. old fashioned gluten-free oats 1 tbsp. Grade B maple syrup 1/8 tsp. allspice
Directions:
1. Soak the dates in hot water for 10 minutes.
2. Add all of the ingredients to a food processor or high speed blender and blend until the mixture turns into a paste or dough like consistency.
3. Scoop out heaping tablespoons of the mixture and roll into balls.
1+ drops Cinnamon Bark Vitality™ Essential Oil (“Start Low and Add Slow!”) 2 tbsp. water, add more if needed
4. Store the energy bites in an airtight container in the refrigerator or freezer.
SI MP LY G O OD | N O V EM BE R 20 16 | SI M PLY G OO D M AG AZ I N E. C OM |
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KIM’S COACHING FOR CHAMPIONS… Where Compassion Meets Control
By Kim Cosgriff resultsbykim.us
Kim Cosgriff is the founder, CEO and Coach of Results by Kim for Weightloss, serving clients locally in UrbandaleWest, Johnston-Grimes and Ankeny. Since 2001, Kim has guided hundreds to success in their weightloss journey through her unique coaching style of “compassion meets control.” Born and raised in Johnston, Iowa where she resides along with her parents, grown children and grandchildren, Kim is a strong advocate of service to the local community.
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Growing up in Johnston, Iowa with a pony in my grandfather’s back yard was a kid’s dream, where I spent a great deal of my childhood. Little did I know at the time that my love for horses would one day lead to being a World Champion! As an adult and parent, Iowa’s long winters and short summers became a challenge as eating became more of a habit than an exercise in self control. I discovered that to “get off the couch and Kim and Trump will be competing for a world title on November 16th in Oklahoma City. You can watch it by live streaming, go to AQHA 2016 out of the house,” I World Live Streaming to watch the 2016 stallions compete. needed to find something to do that I loved and enjoyed. Raising and showing horses became my passion that led to World Championships. The championship Palamino that I showed is appropriately named “Coach.” I’m shown here with my show horse we named “Trump,” because as a colt his forelock had an unusual swoosh to it that resembled his namesake’s. Over the years, the more time I spent with my show horse Coach, the more I realized how important it is to find a fulfilling hobby or interest that can often become a passion. At Results by Kim, we encourage our clients to get out and find something they love or try something new as well. As part of our coaching program, we go beyond merely counting calories to helping clients with everything from grocery shopping to learning how to make the restaurant menu fit their new lifestyle. For an introductory consultation, call (515) 278-8446; check us out on Facebook: Results by Kim Cosgriff or visit www.ResultsbyKim.US. We look forward to seeing less of you every week on the scale!
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A CHRISMOOSE MYSTERY…
Finding and Keeping the True Treasure of Christmas “Kaboom!” A deliveryman dropped a mysterious box on the doorstep. It sat outside the back door of a flower shop called Thistles, in the little town of Pella, Iowa.
So begins the charming Christmas-themed tale of a mysterious box that brought the Chrismoose Family to a flower shop filled with wreaths and ribbons, bells, and bright garlands. Before the Master Designer, who sewed them in his workshop, shipped them off to their next adventure, he had reminded them, “It is ever so important to look for the true treasure of Christmas wherever we find ourselves when we go out into the world.” By day, the Chrismoose Family are quiet and still as part of the holiday display. However, when the shop closes for the evening, the last light is turned out and no humans are around, something magical happens. These whimsical moose come to life and enjoy freedom, frolicking and adventure…leading to a
great discovery—in more ways than one! For families and children of all ages (including their parents!) A Chrismoose Mystery will serve as a delightful reminder to find and keep the True Treasure of Christmas and enjoy this enduring tradition—year after year!
Editor's Note: For the holidays, be inspired by decorations throughout and a Christmas tree filled with a variety of “Chrismoose on the Loose” at Thistles Flower Shop in Pella, Iowa. Signed copies of the first edition of A Chrismoose Mystery are available for purchase and a companion product is available in limited supply for “adoption.” For more information, call (641) 628-9360 or visit thistlesflowership.com. Book sale proceeds will go to the Pella Christian Grade School Expansion Fund. Supplies are limited, so reserve your copy now for holiday gift giving. SI MP LY G O OD | N O V EM BE R 20 16 | SI M PLY G OO D M AG AZ I N E. C OM |
ABOUT THE AUTHOR: Lois Vermeer, a former school teacher, is the wife of 48 years to Bob, mother of Dan, Heidi, and Allison, and grandma to nine “Blessings.” Her purchase of Thistles Flower Shop in Pella, Iowa, inspired her first children’s book, A Chrismoose Mystery.
ABOUT THE ILLUSTRATOR: Joe Hox grew up on a farm where he helped with lots of cattle and pigs but never saw one moose. Joe now lives with his wife and their three children in Pella, Iowa, where he enjoys teaching art and filling up sketch books. This is his first children’s book.
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ROCK YOUR METABOLISM THIS HOLIDAY SEASON… A Simple Strategy for Busy Women
By Kelly Timmerman Kelly Timmerman Nutrition kellytimmerman.com
Are you anxious about the holidays, believing weight gain is just around the corner? I imagine we’ve all been there at some point. However, there is another option and it’s easier than you might think.
Kelly Timmerman is an Author, Speaker, Nutritionist and Cancer Conqueror who has coached everyone from soccer moms to Olympic athletes and executives. Kelly passionately empowers busy people to get their body back by making healthy eating SIMPLE and DOABLE for life. Kelly’s coaching has been featured on CNN Headline News.
Here is a simple strategy to help busy women rock your metabolism during the holidays. Eat like a BABY! We were always meant to eat like a baby! Babies eat when they are hungry, stop when they are full, and eat a balance of proteins, fats and carbs. I call this “eating in 3’s.” Eating in 3’s means always pairing a complete protein, a healthy fat and nutritious carb. Eating in 3’s balances your blood sugar and ROCKS your metabolism. It also burns fat and eliminates sugar cravings. YES! It does all of that! Another thing babies do is eat fairly often. If you can go longer than 3 hours without feeling a sense of hunger, you’ve likely stunted your metabolism. To get it revved up again, start eating in 3’s. When you eat in 3’s, every 3 hours (in the right portions) you will balance your blood sugar. This in turn, gives you more energy and fewer cravings. Now that’s what I would call Happy Holidays! When it comes to alcohol, be smart. If you choose to consume alcohol during the holidays, remember the basics of Eating in 3’s. Alcohol breaks down to sugar and spikes your blood sugar. However, you can minimize the damage by pairing it with protein and even some healthy fat (shrimp and a little cheese, for example). Enjoy the holidays with confidence, knowing how to rock your metabolism.
Protein Dip with Apples
Because this snack has a good balance of protein, fat and carbs, this will keep your blood sugar stable and metabolism rockin!
Directions:
1. Mix 1 scoop of high-quality protein powder (chocolate or vanilla) with 3 tbsp. water and 1 tbsp. peanut butter.
kellytimmerman.com
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2. Serve with 3 oz. apple slices.
SIMP LY G O OD | N O VEM B ER 2016 | SI M PLY G OO D M AG AZ I N E. C OM |
SKINNY ORANGE CHICKEN… For More Energy & Fewer Cravings
By Kelly Timmerman Kelly Timmerman Nutrition kellytimmerman.com
Ingredients: 1 lb. chicken breast, cubed, and cooked 2 tbsp. coconut oil or toasted sesame oil 4 cloves garlic, minced 2/3 c. orange juice
This recipe has a good balance of protein, fat, and carbs. —Recipe created by Alex Curtis.
Directions:
1. In a skillet, combine oil, spices, orange juice, and soy sauce. Simmer over medium-high heat until reduced for about 8-10 minutes. Should look like thick syrup (add 1 tsp of cornstarch if not thickening and whisk until thick.) 2. Add cooked chicken; stir until heated.
1/3 c. Tamari or low-sodium soy sauce Pinch cayenne powder 1⁄2 tsp. ground ginger 2 tsp. sesame seeds, for garnish Broccoli or stir fry vegetable mix
3. In a separate skillet, stir-fry veggies w/small amount of oil, salt, and pepper until heated. 4. To serve, spoon chicken over vegetables and sprinkle with sesame seeds.
For information about classes and upcoming events, visit my website kellytimmerman.com. For nutrition tips and recipes, I invite you to “Like” my Facebook Page: Kelly Timmerman Nutrition. SI MP LY G O OD | N O V EM BE R 20 16 | SI M PLY G OO D M AG AZ I N E. C OM |
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simply
shine
CREATE YOUR OWN SUNSHINE
Be yourself. Above all, let who you are, what you are, what you believe shine through every sentence you write, every piece you finish. —John Jakes
BOOK REVIEW…
A Marine’s Promise to God: A Memoir of Vietnam By David L. Ray A Marine’s Promise to God, by David L. Ray follows the author on his tour of Vietnam in 1970, through more than ten near-death experiences—during which he never even received a wound. He was the squad point man, notorious for being the most dangerous combat role. The marines around him were wounded and killed, but Ray survived by the power of prayer and the promise he to made to God, which he has done his best to keep. As Ray chronicles his path to joining the Marines and discovering the chaos of the life of a Marine grunt in Vietnam, he introduces readers to his experiences of life with his company and in the bush. David L. Ray is a living example of the power of prayer, divine protection, and overworked guardian angels. Time after time, when the shooting and explosions had stopped, Ray realized that not only was he still alive, but he hadn’t even been hit. To this day, he has never forgotten what God did for him—and he has never forgotten his friends who fell while serving their country.
THE PROMISE: This book is a testimony to the power of prayer. To be a “grunt” (infantry) in the jungles of Vietnam with the Seventh Marines was a very dangerous proposition. To make matters worse, I was to be the squad point man for about six months. While I was in Vietnam, there was some heavy duty praying going on by myself and back home there were the prayers of my mother and father—Ruth and Bill Ray—my brother and sisters, aunts and uncles, cousins and fellow members of my home church, the Martin City Baptist Church. It has since been my understanding that during the Wednesday night prayer meetings there, the members always had me in their prayers. To make a promise to God, you have to remember that God has known for eternity exactly what we were going to do our entire life. To make a hollow promise to God is the promise made by a fool. But I made a promise to Him that if He would get me through my tour of Vietnam alive, I WOULD NEVER, EVER FORGET. SI MP LY G O OD | N O V EM BE R 20 16 | SI M PLY G OO D M AG AZ I N E. C OM |
ABOUT THE AUTHOR: After playing two seasons of college football, David L. Ray joined the United States Marine Corps in May of 1969. He survived his tour of Vietnam, inspiring his writing, and then returned to Northwest Missouri State and graduated. Still active in his career as a manufacturer’s representative, Ray and his wife have two children and live in Fort Dodge, Iowa.
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THE SUMMER OF 69’…
I Knew In The Back Of My Mind That This Could Be The Last Summer Of My Life Excerpted from A Marine’s Promise to God By David L. Ray
I joined the Marines in mid May 1969 on the 90 day delay plan, which meant I wouldn’t have to go to boot camp until mid August. It was my intent to live life to the fullest for those three months—to have fun with friends and family, while working two jobs.
In August, my brother Gary and I headed off to western Oklahoma to get with friends of ours—the Whitakers. Paul was the minister of church on the Cheyenne Indian Reservation and had been our minister at the Martin City Baptist Church in Kansas City, MO. After a few days, I headed out alone to San Antonio, TX to visit relatives. It was over 110 degrees, so without regular air conditioning I was using 4/80 air conditioning (4 windows down/80 miles an hour). In San Antonio, my cousin Jim Ray and I had some good times that included some drag races. He had a Chevy Chevelle with a 396 CI engine and I had a 1965 Plymouth Belvedere with a 383 CI engine and a big Hurst floor shift. We were fairly evenly matched and I am not sure we ever declared which car was the best.
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During those three months I was trying to live life to the fullest. I knew in the back of my mind that this could be the last summer of my life. By the grace of God it wasn’t, but for several Marine friends of mine, who I was going to meet over the next several months, the summer of 1969 would be their last summer to ever spend with family and friends. One comment: The Marine Corps is a volunteer force (founded November 10, 1775) and to join the Marines during the Vietnam War, especially in the mid to late sixties, was undisputable patriotism. This patriotism obviously includes the career Marines who chose to remain in the Corps. Semper Fi, Marines!
YOU KNOW YOU’RE A MARINE GRUNT (INFANTRY) WHEN…
• You have been wearing the same unlaundered clothes 24/7 for a couple of months. • You haven’t slept in a bed for several months.
• You haven’t shaved for a few days and neither have the sergeants.
• You wash your clothes in the river while you’re still wearing them. • Your boots have never seen polish.
• Your palms have nicotine stains from cupping your cigarette after dark. • You shave out of the steel pot of your helmet.
• You use little balls of C-4 plastic explosive to heat your C Rations.
• You keep from 400 to 600 rounds (bullets) of ammunition with you.
• Your closest companion 24/7 is your rifle.
• You haven’t had a cold drink in almost 2 months.
• Your pack and other gear they have you carrying weigh as much as your older sister.
• All they’ve given you to eat for a couple of months are C Rations and a can of Dinty Moore stew from home is to die for.
• You know it wasn’t a straw that broke the camel’s back but it was a can of machine gun ammo.
• The guys who have showers and beds to sleep in are at the Bob Hope show and you’re still in the jungle.
SI MP LY G O OD | N O V EM BE R 20 16 | SI M PLY G OO D M AG AZ I N E. C OM |
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HONORING AMERICA’S HEROES… With America's Family Coaches By Dr. Gary and Barb Rosberg
As children of fathers who served in World War II, Barb and I learned to honor our country, the flag, and most important, those who risk their lives to protect all of us.
And we’re proud to answer the call through our military marriage ministry: Honoring America’s Heroes. Since 2006, Barb and I have been blessed to help meet the unique needs military families experience before, during and after deployment. More recent, we’ve been working with service men and women wounded in Iraq and Afghanistan and have learned two things: The suffering and pain doesn’t end with the multiple surgeries most of them encounter. They deserve everything we, as grateful citizens, can give to them. What if we could see the marriages of these heroes grow deeper in the midst of strain and loss? What if you could know that your investment in one or more of these deserving families could bring life-changing resources and coaching to those who have served and sacrificed for you? We have 20 heroic soldiers and their wives who have taken the Oath of protecting our country and paid the price. Two of the families are Gold Star families who paid the ultimate price; the loss of their Green Beret husbands. The other 18 heroes suffer with varying degrees of PTSD and physical disabilities ranging from amputations, burns, traumatic brain injuries, blindness and loss of mobility. These 20 couples represent 13 states. Eighteen couples were together with us during 2016 and the additional two couples are ready to join their fellow veterans when the trumpet sounds. We have prayed with and for them, coached them, listened, laughed, cried with some, and come to a conclusion that just because they may not walk or see or be able to put on the uniform to be the soldier they want to be; their soldier’s heart is alive and well in each of them. Their lives are different today due to their injuries and we are asking you to join with us to serve them, so they know their service will not be forgotten. They are more than survivors of some of the most incredible wounds you can imagine: they are victors and they are stepping into fight for their marriages with their caregiving wives who have also paid a significant price for our freedom. Please take a few moments to read about two military families we’re already working with and prayerfully consider supporting them, and others like them, with a donation and/or attending our November 10th dinner. Guard your hearts,
Dr. Gary and Barb Rosberg 36
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Editor’s Note: Please RSVP as soon as possible for the Remembering Our Heroes Fundraising Dinner. Space is limited. Call or text their office: 515.334.7482 or email: info@afcoaches.com SI MP LY G O OD | N O V EM BE R 20 16 | SI M PLY G OO D M AG AZ I N E. C OM |
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Sgt. Derick Hurt, U.S. Army
Self-proclaimed country boy, Derick Hurt grew up as an avid athlete in Greenfield, Missouri. His family has a long tradition of military service, and in 2000, Derick enlisted in the United States Army. Just three short years later he would discover the cost of freedom. On the evening of September 13, 2003, while on patrol in Mosul, Iraq, Derick’s unit was ambushed by insurgents with rocket-propelled grenades and small-arms fire. Derick was driving the rear Humvee when a grenade was thrown inside landing between his feet. In a daze, he bailed out of the truck and landed facedown on the sidewalk. His right leg was blown off below the knee. The left leg suffered significant tissue loss, the heel bone was exposed and more than a dozen pieces of shrapnel were embedded in the bottom of his foot. He spent more than a year in Walter Reed Army Medical Center and underwent more than 20 surgeries before coming home and eventually deciding to have the left leg amputated as well. Derick was awarded the Purple Heart, the Army Commendation Medal and the Army Achievement Medal for his service. Derick, his wife Stefanie, daughter Isabella and son Wyatt have moved into their new, fully adaptable home back in Derick’s hometown. He works for the Missouri Department of Natural Resources and serves in his community and on several committees for his church.
“Gary Rosberg helped us see Christ in each other, resolve conflict and remove stumbling blocks in our lives. We are truly grateful for him.” —Sgt. Derick Hurt, U.S. Army
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“I was lost in the dark…Grasping at anything and everything. This amazing couple helped me have the AHA! moments that shed some guiding light back into my marriage, and into my rocky relationship with God and the church.” —SSG Edward S. Matayka, U.S. Army
SSG Edward S. Matayka, U.S. Army
Edward Matayka grew up in Chicago, Illinois. As a child, he enjoyed computers, soccer, target pistol and rifle shooting, and a variety of outdoor activities. Edward was working two dead-end jobs and feeling directionless when he met a recruiter at a 7-Eleven. A day later he enlisted in the army, and by August of 1999, he had graduated basic training in Fort Sill, Oklahoma. On July 2, 2010, Edward’s company went out for evening patrol of the Bagram security zone in Afghanistan. At about 1:00 am, an IED went off underneath the MATV, hitting a seam in the under armor. The driver, who was sitting directly in front of Edward, was killed instantly. As a result of the blast, Edward’s left leg was traumatically amputated, and the right was badly damaged. The National Guard rushed his wife Karen to him within four hours of the blast, and she never left his side. After more than 23 surgeries, Edward is now a double amputee, with traumatic brain injury, Cauda Equina syndrome, multiple lumbar fractures resulting in a spinal fusion, left upper arm spasticity and left side visual neglect. Presently, Edward has therapy seven days a week, resulting in their relocation to Bandera, Texas.
“The Rosbergs have truly enhanced the readiness of the United States Military forces. Tens of thousands of soldiers have been helped.” —Brigadier General Martin L. Graber, United States Army National Guard (ARNG), Retired They’ve Sacrificed So Much For Your Freedom. What Can You Do For Them?
America’s Family Coaches cannot impact every wounded warrior who has experienced limb loss, traumatic brain injury, life-threatening burns and/or PTSD. But we can help a number of wounded warrior couples from the general military service as well as Special Forces Operations. You have an opportunity to support the brave men and women of our military by providing the funds needed to offer practical coaching through programming and other events, as well as marriage resources to help them grow and stay connected. 160 S. 68th Street, Suite 1212 • West Des Moines, Iowa 50266 (888) 608-COACH • HonoringAmericasHeroes.org
SI MP LY G O OD | N O V EM BE R 20 16 | SI M PLY G OO D M AG AZ I N E. C OM |
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A SOFT LANDING…
For Unexpected Challenges By Jenny Condon, Executive Director InnerVisions Health Care ivhcare.org
What happens if your teenage daughter gets pregnant? What about your 22-year old granddaughter? What now? InnerVisions Health Care exists to be a “soft place to fall” for these young women who find themselves unexpectedly pregnant. Founded in 2011, we've helped thousands of clients in a compassionate and nonjudgmental way by offering the following medical resources: • pregnancy testing and counseling • ultrasounds
JENNY CONDON Executive Director DR. GREG MCKERNON Medical Director MELANIE FROYEN Assistant Director
• referrals for OB Care and social services • abortion information
• STD risk assessments
• STD testing, diagnosis, and treatment • sexual integrity workshops
• post-abortive healing workshops
JENNY CLINE Director of Nursing BRYAN GONZALEZ Director of Development
1355 50th Street Suite 400A West Des Moines, Iowa info@ivhcare.org ivhcare.org (515) 440-2273
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While we don't perform or refer for abortions, we want to give our clients (who are often at-risk and abortion-minded) as much information as possible so they can make the most informed and life-affirming decisions for themselves and their families. In a little over 5 years, more than 429 women have chosen parenting or adoption! That's 429 more babies in the local community because of our life-saving ministry! Since all of our programs and services are free, we rely on the generosity of our friends for fundraising and underwriting. But we also heavily rely on volunteers to donate their time and talents. In 2015 alone, our nurses and receptionists volunteered more than 2550 hours of their time to the clinic! Call us today if you're interested in serving the clients at InnerVisions Health Care. You won't be disappointed by the impact you make on the lives of young people in our community!
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GIVING THANKS…
In All Circumstances
By Heidi Vermeer-Quist, Psy.D. Author, Gardening Your Life Series
Grief presents a great challenge during the holidays of Thanksgiving and Christmas. Big losses may take years to work through the cycle of grief or loss—especially the loss of a child.
ABOUT THE AUTHOR… Heidi Vermeer-Quist, Psy.D. is a licensed clinical psychologist as well as a wife, mother, musician and family business consultant. (vqconsult.com) In 2002, Heidi helped to establish the Des Moines Clinic for Pine Rest Christian Mental Health Services that has grown into a fully-staffed outpatient mental health clinic. Heidi is the author of Gardening Your Life, a three-phase growth group rooted in solid Christian teaching.
a personal growth
a personal growth
series
series
a personal growth series
Books One and Two of this personal growth series are available from the author at: gardeningyourlife@gmail.com
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Two women close to me, lost their young sons to terminal illnesses. One boy lost a year-long battle with cancer at the age of 4 ½ and the other died suddenly as the result of a fever at 19 months old. In the midst of their grief, these mothers gained wisdom and graciously shared two golden nuggets with others: • Be thankful and don’t take small things for granted. See God’s blessings in the details and in unexpected ways. • Draw strength from social and spiritual support. Never go it alone. Stay close to one another and to our one sure thing—a God who loves and provides for us. Speaking from my own experience, at the gravesite following the funeral of a young cousin, the most profound and yet somehow painfully comforting moment came at the close of the ceremony with the Christian classic, the Doxology. Praise God from Whom all blessings flow; Praise Him all creatures here below; Praise Him above ye heavenly host; Praise Father, Son, and Holy Ghost. Amen.
In Matthew 5, Jesus states, “Blessed are those who mourn for they will be comforted.” In the biblical text, “comforted” also means “fortified.” Could it be that through our mourning and grief God promises to rebuild and fortify us? Reflect on that for a moment. Fortified. Does this mean that as we work through our grief, we may become stronger? In my experience, working through my own grief and walking alongside so many people dealing with intense grief, the answer is YES. Is the process enjoyable? Not really—though there are moments of joy to be shared as you grieve with God and others…it can be heart wrenching. But we can often get to a place of thanksgiving IN the loss. We can see that silver lining, especially if we step back and look at the loss and beyond the loss itself and gaze into what “new” thing may be happening. As you think ahead to this Thanksgiving, what words of wisdom do you want to hold on to? Consider sharing some of these with your loved ones this season. Conversations like this may make for a very rich Thanksgiving indeed. Be joyful always, pray continually, give thanks in all circumstances…for this is your spiritual act of worship.
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THE DOXOLOGY…Praise God From Whom All Blessings Flow By Sharon Hall This hymn, known as the Doxology, is one of the most beloved hymns. The word “doxology” is derived from the Greek words “doxa” (glory) and “logos” (word)—a word of glory: Praise God from whom all blessings flow; Praise him, all creatures here below; Praise him above, ye heavenly host; Praise Father, Son, and Holy Ghost.
Bishop Thomas Ken was born in Berkhamsted, England in July of 1637 at a time when there was great upheaval in England in regards to the Church and the Monarchy—an English civil war. His father Thomas was an attorney in the Court of Common Pleas and his mother’s name was Martha. Martha died when Thomas was only four years old. His half-sister Anne, thirty years old and married to Izaak Walton (author of The Compleat Angler), took fourteen year-old Thomas into her family after their father died. In 1652 Thomas entered Winchester College, where he was an exemplary student. In 1656 he entered Oxford and was ordained in 1662. After a decade of several pastorates, he returned to Winchester College to serve in various capacities, including chaplain to the bishop. He also composed poems, prayers and hymns, some of which would later be published in a book entitled “Manual of Prayers”. He also wrote hymns for his students to mark the passing of a day: Morning Hymn, Evening Hymn and Midnight Hymn. Thomas would rise each morning to sing the Morning Hymn before putting on his clothes. There were ten stanzas and it ended with the four lines we now know as the Doxology. Similarly, the Evening Hymn had six stanzas followed by the Doxology ending. In 1679, Thomas was appointed by Charles II as chaplain to Princess Mary, wife of William of Orange.
Thomas Ken continued to write hymns until his death in 1711. His hymns, especially the Doxology, influenced countless people. George Whitfield remarked that Thomas Ken’s hymns were of great benefit to his soul at the age of ten. Other stories related in Illustrated History of Hymns: An impressive scene occurred in 1858, at Andover, where they were having a great gathering at the collegiate dinner table. Unexpectedly it was announced that the telegraphic cable across the ocean was successful, when, it is said that “a thousand gentlemen spontaneously arose, and sang the soul inspiring strain: “Praise God, from whom all blessings flow.” Such was the boldness and conviction of Bishop Thomas Ken. It is said that not many (if any) of his sermons are remembered, but the Doxology became one of the most powerful anthems of the Church.
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SAFE WATER INTERNATIONAL MINISTRIES (S.W.I.M.)… Bringing Safe Water to Schools and Disaster Relief Worldwide
By Earl Ratcliff, President Safe Water International Ministries swimforhim.org
The Foster Group reaches thousands of people with safe water and living water through their gifts of time and resources. Once again, the employees of the Foster Group donated their time and money to help Safe Water International Ministries (SWIM) to build hand-held Chlorine Producing Units (CPU’s) to save lives. Each CPU generates enough chlorine to provide safe drinking water for thousands of people a day. In many of the countries, 7 out of every 10 children die from bad drinking water. In villages where the CPU is being used, mortality has dropped to 1 out of 10. When the Foster Group first heard about SWIM in September of 2014, the Ebola outbreak in West Africa had reportedly already taken the lives of 4,900 people. No one could predict where the deadly disease would strike next. Reports were coming in that the situation in Liberia was so dire that treatment facilities of ten did not have space available for people needing emergency aid.
Almost immediately, the Foster Group employees responded to the crisis by offering space in the basement of their offices along with their hearts and hands to 44
help SWIM assemble life-saving chlorine producing units for an overnight shipment to the Franciscan Workers who were strategically located in Liberia. They were ready and waiting to make massive amounts of chlorine to put in backpacks for disinfection and the destruction of the deadly Ebola disease. The second sponsored CPU build by the Foster Group again targets providing safe and living water to thousands of Africans in Uganda, Kenya and the Democratic Republic of Congo. Board member David Spencer recently returned from these countries where he helped organize the distribution of CPU’s and chlorine. David reports, “When we go out to do a CPU placement, we share some scripture, teach from the Word and share the gospel. In an August meeting, we witnessed 7 testimonies of salvation and other workings of God to save people’s lives through safe water.” SWIM’s vision for “Sharing Christ’s love through water and his Word” is accomplished with no employees, seven volunteer board members, a trailer and volunteers like the Foster Group employees. If you, your place of work or your church group would like to sponsor a CPU build to save lives and share the living water, please call Earl Ratcliff at (641) 629-6280 or email chlorine.4.all@gmail.com.
S.W.I.M.
P.O. Box 543 • Oskaloosa, IA 52577
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LIBERIA Fight Against Ebola
• Donated CPUs have gone to Liberia with the United States Centers For Disease Control and Prevention to create disinfectant in the fight against Ebola.
• Others have gone to Franciscan Works, Rick’s Institute and Christian Alliance for Missions and Church Planting.
!
www.swimforhim.info
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GRATEFUL FOR WATER…
Something for Which to Say Fervent Grace By Trevor Huddleston Bishop of Masai
It is lovely, from time to time, to have a glimpse of the meaning of the old courtesies of Africa. A group of youngsters had come to our mission on a Saturday morning to ask for a football. They had started early, and it was hot and they were thirsty. So I gave them some water.
As each one took the cup, he went down on one knee and drank it, kneeling. I asked, “Is it your custom to kneel when you drink water?” Their leader replied, “Ndiyo! Kwa Shukrani” (Yes—it is thanksgiving). For in their land water is life, something for which to say fervent grace. For what are you most thankful this Thanksgiving? —Adapted from Guideposts Plus
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MAKING LIFE BETTER FOR EVERYONE…
Foster Group’s Commitment to Community Involvement
Foster Group understands the value of giving back to one’s community. That’s why they are active in a number of sponsorships with organizations that are working to make life better for everyone. Hands-on community service projects for Foster Group employees include donating time and money to Meals from the Heartland. In October, the Foster Group’s employees generously gave of their time and money to help Safe Water International Ministries (SWIM) build hand-held Chlorine Producing Units (CPU’s) to save lives.
Some of Foster Group’s partners are in the medical field, some are devoted to philanthropy in general, and all are just as committed to our communities and our country. From its founding in 1989 by Jerry Foster, Foster Group (originally Retirement & Investment Advisors, Inc.) has been committed to helping a wide variety of investors achieve successful lifetime financial experiences. Foster Group is a privately-held, independent, fee-only investment and wealth management firm headquartered in West Des Moines, Iowa with a second regional office in Omaha, Nebraska. The 14
shareholders are all current employees active in the firm and representing multiple age groups, intentionally selected to ensure that the level of service clients receive today can be delivered and improved upon for generations to come. In 1992, Foster Group made the transition to a fee-only firm, enabling clients to have confidence that the advice being given was always in their best interest and free of conflicts of interest that may arise when associated with other forms of compensation. More recently, Foster Group has been honored with the Charles Schwab Best-in-Business IMPACT Award™ (2012) while CNBC ranked Foster Group as 13th in the nation (out of 28,000) in their 2014 inaugural list of Top Fee-Only Wealth Management Firms. Foster Group has always encouraged clients to consider integrating generosity into investment and financial plans. Since 2010, Foster Group has enjoyed facilitating over $20 million of financial gifts on behalf of clients.
6601 Westown Parkway, Suite #100 West Des Moines, Iowa 50266 (p) 515-226-9000 • (f) 515-224-4970 • (866) 242-7629 www.fostergrp.com/simplygood
simply
dream
GREATER THINGS AWAIT YOU