The Journey - February

February 2010

Your child’stonsils

carla poageInspIrIng

Young Woman

Inspiring Woman

30 Minutepower pump

Gabriella Roberts

Ask The Doc

giving backgrIefshare

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2 / The Journey - February 2010

Contents Fe b r u a r y 2 0 1 0

Your HomeAt Home: ReFResH youR nest 6

LAndmARks: HARdemAn House 8

HomesteAd: bLind dAte 9

Home touR: FAwn cottAge 10

in tHe kitcHen: substitutions 12

LAndscAping: cAmeLLiAs 14

simpLe soLutions: oRgAnize youR woRkspAce 15

enteRtAin in styLe: steAm oven 17

Your communitYHot spot: cHARity bALL 20

business spotLigHt: mHset 22

business connections: expAnd youR HoRizons 23

LuFkin cHAmbeR oF commeRce 24

nAcogdocHes cHAmbeR oF commeRce 26

cALendAR 28

pLAces And FAces 30

giving bAck: gRieFsHARe 36

inspiRing young womAn: cARLA poAge 38

inspiRing womAn: gAbRieLLA RobeRts 41

Your LifeHALL oF FAme Hubbies 44

pRetty bAbies 45

giRLs gRoup: teAm LuFkin 46

youR wALLet: income tAx cHAnges 47

weddings 48

ReLAtionsHips: Let me HAve tHe wHeeL 50

educAtion: AngeLA duncAn 51

Your BodYFitness: 30 minute poweR pump 54

HeALtH: cARdiovAscuLAR HeALtH 55

FAsHion: woRk out 56

beAuty: do you need to detox 57

Your cHiLdAsk tHe doc: youR cHiLd’s tonsiLs 62

cHiLd’s pLAy: emmA gRAce And LAke 64

kids konnect 66

tReAts And eAts: Love At FiRst bite 67

FAmiLy suppoRt: 68

wHy i Love being A mom: sAndi HunteR 69

Review 70

jouRney mARket 71

pARting Advice 72

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distruButionJa n e t G lov e r

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Injuries & Illnesses

Antibiotics & Shots

On-Site Digital X-Ray

Urgent Asthma & Allergy Treatment

Lacerations & Broken Bones

Urgent On-Site Lab

Lufkin 634-DOCS (3627)

Between Sam’s andTractor Supply

Livingston 888-634-DOCS (3627)

On 190 AcrossWalmart


What a fun issue to put together! It has really motivated me to get up and get my heart pumping. Of course, when we hear February—we naturally think of Valentine’s Day, which is always fun to enjoy. But, we need to remember to take care of our own hearts, minds, bodies, and spirit; not only for ourselves, but also for those loved ones we so look forward to spending Valentine’s with! Which is always fun to enjoy; but we need to care of our own hearts, our mind, body, and spirit. Not just for ourselves, but for all those loved ones we so look forward to spending Valentines with. This is our Healthy You issue. We filled the pages with articles to give you more healthy information as well as great advertisers who want you to be healthy. I hope you get a little energy

Welcome

stepHanie oLiverpResident & editoR

News

census 2010Find out more by visiting www.census.gov or nedco.org

Rodeo QueenDon’t forget to turn in your application for Rodeo Queen. The deadline is February 12, 2010. We look forward to a great Angelina County Benefit Rodeo with the Lion’s Club. Get your application from your school counselor’s office. The contest is open to seniors in Angelina County involved with 4-H, FFA, and/or High School Rodeo. For more information, call 936.635.7369.

Is your favorite location out of magazines? Email us for more [email protected]

2010 deep east texas association of buildeRsexecutive boaRd President Mike Hineman, Vice President Celia Alvarez, Secretary/Treasurer Pat Foley, Daphne Holliday, Kenneth Lambert, Rick Renfro, Jeb Stringer, Jack Greene, Kent Walker, Melvin Linton, Hal Hunt, and John Bryan.

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HomeYour


A As the saying goes, there’s no place like home. People are always looking for

ways to make their home a more enjoyable living space.

“Rather than flipping homes, like people did when the housing market was strong, we’re seeing more and more families embracing what they already have,” says Bob Maricich, president and CEO of World Market Center Las Vegas. “The idea of refreshing one’s environment, even in the smallest ways, can have a restorative power and transform a house to a home.”

Home furnishing experts say that it’s important to recognize that it’s the littlest things that matter when you’re making enhancements to your home. Simple touches of a new sofa or end table, rug, or even a decorative lamp shade will create a different look and feel for a room or space. This is a small lifestyle change and not an unobtainable luxury.

Timeless TrendsNancy Robinson and Julie M. Smith, of Nine Muses Media, have put together some timeless trends that will help you visualize and explore the possibilities for updating your home.

Calm YourselfLiving with a neutral interior palette is like being enveloped by a cloud. Get the look by blanketing rooms in the softest neutral shades: cream, mocha

and, most especially (and perhaps surprisingly), gray. “A dash of a neutral metallic accent, such as silver, adds a welcome sparkle,” said Robinson. “It’s like sunlight peeking through the clouds.”

Distressed to ImpressModern Country is ageless and exudes a comforting charm that takes imperfection to new heights. Natural finishes, heavily distressed surfaces, reclaimed woods, rattan, wicker and other natural textures are livable finishes for busy families. And the look fits farmhouse style or urban loft with equal ease.

Ethnic InspirationFar-reaching global influences are no longer far flung. Ethnic inspired fabrics are turning up in American homes. “The organic patterns, vibrant color palettes and handcrafted looks create an aura of sophisticated warmth,” said Smith. What to look for: motifs inspired by traditional African design; susani patterns from Central Asia; ikats and batiks from Indonesia; and handblocked woodprints from India.

Power PlayA smaller footprint, lighter weight and better performance are important purchase considerations when buying a new laptop. The same things matter when buying home office furniture. In fact, Robinson and Smith note that as laptops have become the most popular home

computing choice among consumers, so, too, have writing tables and petite desks moved to the fore. Unlike their executive suite predecessors, these modestly scaled workstations don’t take up an entire room. Instead, they slip easily into most interiors, providing needed workspace without taking up too much space — or too much money.

Seeing Black and WhiteThe go-to item in your closet may be the little black (or white, depending on season) dress. In home furnishings, it’s the combination of the two that offers the most impact. It’s twice the look in one great product, and it never goes out of style. Smith and Robinson say to consider making a statement with a black and white combo in bedding ensembles, window treatments, wallpaper, or upholstery fabric.

Refreshing your nest doesn’t have to be out of reach. With a few simple changes, it’s possible to fall in love with your home all over again.

For more inspiration and tips, visit HomeYet.com.

Tips for Choosing Furniture

Measure, measure, measure! Too many people don’t measure their rooms, doorways and stairways before buying a furniture piece. Make sure it will not only fit in the room, but will fit through all the doorways it takes to get into the room.

At home/ Your Home

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Color Trial: Just because you like the color in the showroom doesn’t mean you’ll like it in your house. Lighting and surrounding elements can change a color drastically. Get color swatches and live with them for a few days before making a final decision.

Reality Check: Think through how this piece of furniture will be used and who will be using it. Small children, pets, shoes on the ottoman, snacking in front of the TV — they all can cause wear and tear on furniture. Light colored fabrics, delicate construction and fine finishes might just have to give way to more practical concerns.

Imperfections can be the perfect accent. Interior by Regina-Andrew Design.

Smaller desks pack big benefits. Origins laptop desk by aspenhome.

Black and white never goes out of style.Côte de Rhône bedding ensemble by Amity Home.

A dash of silver adds sparkle. Star chest, table and chairs by Bolier & Co.


lAndmArksThe Hardeman House

/ Your Home

T The Hardeman House, built in 1892, is listed on the National Register of Historic

Places and is situated on Old Washington Square, a “center” in Nacogdoches that is much

older than the town square. The Caddo Indians established the area as a ceremonial site between 1250 A.D. and 1450 A.D. One of their mortuary mounds remains today on Mound Street, which is 1/2 block east of the Hardeman House. Another mound, located on the Hardeman House property, was excavated in the 1930’s.

In 1845, Haden Edwards, Charles S. Taylor, and J. R. Arnold promised 2.5 acres next to the Hardeman House to the City of Nacogdoches to erect a building for the Nacogdoches University, which was chartered at the time. The modified Grecian structure, built in 1858, was the first nonsectarian university established during the Republic of Texas and the only building chartered by the Republic that is still standing.

Robert Lee Hardeman, a descendant of an early pioneering family of Texas, built his one-story home at the corner of Church and Arnold Streets in 1892. In 1912, Hardeman commissioned prominent architect Dietrich Rulfs to enlarge

the house, adding a second story, a wraparound gallery, new siding, and interior. Mr. Rulfs also designed and built 15 other turn-of-the-century homes and churches located in the neighborhood surrounding the Hardeman House.

Lee and Ida Hardeman had three children: Homer, Gladys, and Curtis. Gladys never married and lived in the home until just prior to her death in 1980.

In more recent years, the house has been home to an antique shop and a bed and breakfast. The Hardeman House is currently owned by Phillip and Linda Foshee, both lifetime residents of Nacogdoches and alumni of Stephen F. Austin State University, who are eager to share their knowledge of the area.

Source: www.hardemanhouse.com

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C Custom window treatments such as blinds, shades and draperies can add a whole new feel to a room while controlling light and adding privacy. They are

an easy way to change the look of a room; however, with the vast choices available it can be tricky choosing just the right coverings for your window and room.

Get your matchmaking started by understanding the “personality traits” of these popular options:Cellular (or honeycomb) shades get their name from unique air-trapping “cells” that expand and contract like an accordion when open and closed. When open, the accordion-like cells create an air barrier between the shade and the window, providing a cushion of insulation. “Cellular shades can significantly reduce energy loss,” said Bryan Nicklas, Director of Custom Marketing for Levolor, “providing a fashionable way to save on energy bills and maintain comfortable indoor temperatures in any season.” Several cellular shade fabric options are available, in many colors and with varying degrees of privacy.—Sheer fabrics softly filter light and allow vision from inside and outside.—Woven fabric cellular shades provide more privacy than sheers. Slight details and shapes are visible through these fabrics.—To really control light, such as in a bedroom, look for a Blockout shade. “The Levolor Evening Star Blockout shades can control up to 99 percent of light,” said Nicklas. “They also provide excellent insulation.”

Wood and faux wood blinds are known for the warmth, beauty and stylish looks they bring to both the inside and outside of a home. Wood blinds allow precision light control through tilt and lift ability, and with a wide range of finishes available, it is easy to coordinate with existing wood finishes such as furniture, cabinets and flooring.

Roman shades blend fabric for the timeless silhouette of drapery with the performance qualities of a traditional shade, adding rich texture, depth and a dramatic presentation to any window.

Roller shades bring contemporary yet classic styles in a variety of fabrics and screens, with opacities ranging from sheer to complete light block out. They add simple lines and sophisticated style for any number of living spaces.

Have a Fear of Commitment?If you’re not sure what type of window treatment to purchase, many Web sites offer free sample swatches. For example, at Levolor.com, you can order up to 10 free swatches with delivery to your door. Seeing what your window coverings will look like in your room can be a test run for a long-lasting relationship between your window and its perfect match.

No Strings AttachedLooking for a way to create a clean, streamlined appearance? Choose the cordless option. It’s a great way to avoid dangling cords that clutter your view and also offer a safer option for homes with children and pets. The cordless option is offered on a variety of products, so make sure to check for availability before committing.

homesteAdBlind Date - Fixing up your Windows


home tourFawn Cottage

/ Your Home

T The home of Linda Sisk, which she very appropriately named Fawn Cottage, is an English Cottage. Gary Stripling was the builder for the home and Alva

Kingham was the interior decorator. As you enter the home, you know every inch of the home was well planned and thought out. Fawn Cottage is a 3200 sq ft, 3 bedroom, 3½ bath with game room.

The home is adorned with regency, French style reproductions, including old French light sconces, French style chandeliers in the dinning room and kitchen, and a hand carved regency mirror. Many of her favorite pieces include For edge books and antebellum fairy lamp. The For edge books are a leather bound book which at first glance looks like the pages are gold trimmed. But, when you press at an angle, there is a different English scene that appears.

The beautiful custom kitchen is one of a kind. At first sight, you see the custom armoire style refrigerator and pantry center. The kitchen is stocked with state of the art appliances: Fisher-Paykel dishwasher drawers, Wolf subzero integrated fridge and freezer, built in drawer microwave, and Wolf warming drawer, and complete with kitchen garages to hide counter appliances. You cannot walk into the kitchen without noticing the beautiful “Grape Harvest” frieze above the oven hood.

The backyard adds the finishing touches to Fawn Cottage. It is complete with five outdoor “rooms” and two patios. The rooms include a meditation garden, fire pit area, outdoor kitchen, hummingbird and butterfly garden, and sitting area.

Just one step into this relaxing home, and you’ll feel as though you’ve stepped into a true English cottage. Linda Sisk’s attention to detail and enthusiasm for the English cottage style are evidenced in this one-of-a-kind East Texas retreat!

“I want to do right by my parents And with PineCrest I can.”

- PineCrest family member

When your loved one’s needs can no longer be met at home, turn to the caring, professional staff at PineCrest.

We offer:

• Round-the-clock Medicare Certified Skilled Nursing

• Three levels of Memory Support Care in secure home-like settings

• Spacious private and semi-private accommodations

• Private duty staff available through PineCrest’s licensed Home Health Agency

Contact Juli Cook or Amanda Scarborough

to schedule a tour.

936-634-1054

AL #000424HC #000235


In the kItchen/ Your Home

H“They saved my life.”

Lufkin | (936) 631-6789 | memorialhealth.org

Stories FROM THE heart.

Quick and Easy Substitions

How many times have you been preparing a dish or meal and realized that you were out of one of the main ingredients? Many times, I am sure. This is one of

the most frustrating things that can happen during cooking, especially if you live in the country and can’t quickly run to the store and get the ingredient that you need. To help you out in any future instance such as this, I have gathered up some quick and easy substitutions that you can use in place of those missing ingredients.

Ingredient

Baking Powder

Butter

Ketchup

Chocolate

Cornstarch

Cracker Crumbs

Dry Mustard

Self Rising Flour

Fresh Herbs

Butter Milk

Whole Milk

Brown Sugar

Powdered Sugar

Tomato Juice

Red Wine

White Wine

Quantity

1 tsp.

1 cup

1 cup

1 square

1 tbsp.

3/4 cup

1 tsp.

1 cup

1 tbsp.

1 cup

1 cup

1/2 cup

1 cup

1 cup

Any amount

Any amount

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Anna Lee grew up right here in East Texas in the wonderful town of Center. While growing up, she was very much involved in her local 4-H club participating in projects from foods and nutrition, showing chickens in the infamous Poultry Festival, and riding in the Shelby County mounted drill team, played on her High School Golf team, and worked at her parent’s family business, Boles Feed Company. Anna completed a Bachelors degree in Family and Consumer Sciences at SFA, Master’s degree in Family Studies at Texas Woman’s University. Anna and her husband, Justin, live in Nacogdoches. Anna is currently is working at Shelby Savings Bank.

Quantity

1 tsp.

1 cup

1 cup

1 square

1 tbsp.

3/4 cup

1 tsp.

1 cup

1 tbsp.

1 cup

1 cup

1/2 cup

1 cup

1 cup

Any amount

Any amount

Substitute

1/4 tsp. baking soda + 1/2 tsp. cream of tartar

1 cup margarine or 1 cup vegetable shortening (baking only)

1 cup tomato sauce + 1/2 cup sugar + 2 tbs. vinegar

3-4 tbsp. cocoa + 1 tbsp. butter

2 tbsp. flour

1 cup bread crumbs

1 tbsp. prepared mustard

1 cup all-purpose flour, 1/2 tsp. salt & 1 tsp. baking powder

1 tsp. dried herbs

1 tbsp. lemon juice + enough regular milk to make 1 cup

1/2 cup evaporated milk + 1/2 cup water

2 tbsp. molasses in 1/2 cup granulated sugar

1 cup granulated sugar + 1 tsp. cornstarch

1/2 cup tomato suace + 1/2 cup water

the same amount of cranberry or grape juice

the same amount of apple or white grape juice

ClAndscApIngCamellias -By Elaine Cameron

Camellia japonica bushes are in full bloom, adding a bright spot of color to

the otherwise dreary winter landscape. I have loved camellias since I first saw them in

South Carolina, when I moved there one January many years ago. The eye popping colors of the camellia blooms made an impression on this girl from Michigan. I have plans to add several to my landscape soon.

Its glossy green leaves and winter blooms, beautiful enough for the most elegant table settings, have made the camellia a Southern favorite since the mid-nineteenth century. The beauty of the flowers rivals that of the rose, while the attractive foliage makes the camellia a desirable landscape specimen.

Camellia japonica, a native of China, blooms from December until mid-March in shades from white to red. Varieties with single, semi-double or double flowers are available. It grows slowly and will reach five to fifteen feet tall, making it an ideal specimen shrub; or several can be grouped as a screen. Camellia sasanqua, a native of Japan, is usually a smaller shrub that blooms from October until mid-January. It tolerates colder temperatures than the japonicas and is easier to grow. There are dwarf varieties of Camellia sasanqua available, making it useful for foundation or border plantings. If you plant both japonica and sasanqua, you will have fresh flowers available from October through March.

We have ideal conditions for camellias in East Texas. They thrive in well-drained acid soil in the light shade of tall pine trees. They need some sun to flower, so morning sun and afternoon shade is best. Choose a site that is protected from cold winter winds to protect the winter blossoms. Before planting, prepare the soil by mixing in generous amount of organic matter such as

compost or composted pine bark. Camellias should be planted from October through March so they can establish healthy root systems before the summer heat.Plant camellias at the same level they were growing in the nursery pot and make the hole three times as wide. If your soil is heavy clay, plant it high, raising the planting area with additional soil. Follow the directions on the nursery tag for spacing. Camellia japonicas grow slowly but they become a large shrub at maturity. Pay close attention to soil moisture and water as needed. This is especially important the first year or two until the shrub is well established.

My neighbor has planted several specimens of Camellia japonica, azaleas, dogwood and spring flowering bulbs under pine trees making his front yard, a showplace from winter through spring. The camellias have matured into large shrubs and tree forms. He mulches his woodland garden with pine straw and leaves, which conserves moisture and controls weeds while giving it a natural look. Our rainfall provides adequate moisture most

of the year, and he supplements that with deep watering in the hot dry months of summer. After they finish blooming, he feeds them with a water soluble fertilizer for acid loving plants.

Camellias are available in area nurseries. A camellia bush would make an ideal Valentine gift for your favorite gardener, and you will have flowers for romantic dinners for many years to come!

February means it is time to celebrate Valentine ’s Day as well as prepare for spring gardening. It is time to plant trees and shrubs, prune roses, plant potatoes, plan a vegetable garden, and build a raised bed. For articles on these topics, visit the Angelina Master Gardeners website at go-lufkin.com/mastergardeners. Angelina Master Gardeners are propagating plants for their annual plant sale which will be held on April 10 at the Farmer’s Market. For gardening, lawn care or yard care questions, contact the Angelina County Extension Office at 2201 South Medford Drive (in front of the Farmer’s Market) or call 936.632.8239.

/ Your Home

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W

sImple solutIonsEasy Ways to Organize Your Workspace

Whether you have a home office or just a small corner that

serves as the family work station, keeping it organized is key to getting

things done. These simple tips will help clear out the clutter and make the most of your space.

• Supplies and Demand. From paper clips to reams of paper, everything needs a place to go. Dumping it all into one drawer doesn’t really help you find things when you need them.

• Prefab drawer organizers don’t always fit the drawer sizes you have, so make your own. Use small containers such as mini loaf pans, small plastic baskets or other small square or rectangle tins and boxes. They’ll hold paper clips, thumbtacks, stamps, sticky note pads and plenty of other small desk items.

• For desktop storage, use jars, small vases or decorated cans to hold pens and pencils. They’re small and can add an interesting visual element to your work space. Cut Cord Clutter. There’s

nothing like a tangle of electrical cords to make an area seem even more cluttered.

• Wireless Charging Station. To tame the cords needed to charge up electronic devices, go wireless instead. Powermat helps eliminate dead batteries,

constant plugging/unplugging, loss of chargers and tangled wires. With real-time wireless charging for phones, games, music players and other popular electronic devices, Powermat allows users to charge multiple devices simultaneously, charging as fast as or faster than the device’s charger. It

sImple solutIonsContinued

/ Your Home

senses when the device is fully charged, and stops sending power so that it not only saves energy, but protects from overcharging.

The Powermat system pairs an ultra-thin mat with a sleek receiver that attaches to each device, enabling users to simply drop and charge. Custom receivers are available for the iPhone, iPod, Nintendo DS and Blackberry devices. These and over one thousand other devices may be charged using the convenient Powercube, a universal receiver that comes standard with every Powermat. Available in Portable or Home & Office versions, Powermat makes a great gift for any anyone looking to de-clutter their home or office. The Powermat’s suggested retail price is $99.99 for mats and $29.99 - $39.99 for receivers. Visit www.powermat.com for more information.

• Go Vertical. Why spread out if you can spread up? Look for ways to take advantage of any vertical space you may have.• Even one wall shelf can add some much needed storage space. • Put up a wall-mounted message center, or create one with a small bulletin board, a write-on board, and a wall file.• Stack equipment, but don’t cover up any venting. Use small chair-leg protectors as spacers in between to let air circulate and prevent overheating.

It doesn’t take much – and it doesn’t have to cost much – to get your workspace organized. A few simple fixes and you’re on your way to a more productive day.

Courtesy of Family Features

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IentertAIn In styleMiele Steam Oven - A Must Have Appliance

In this day and age when we’re all trying to eat healthy, one of the biggest

detriments in our mission to achieve a vitamin filled diet and a smaller waistline is a

simple thing. Time and money. Working long hours and getting home at 6 p.m. in the evening (as many working families tend to) leads to quite a few nights of ordering pizza, getting takeout, etc. along with purchasing microwavable dinners. This is one of the main reasons why many of us are overweight and why losing weight has become so difficult. It seems too difficult to get home, change, and then prepare a healthy meal for our families. Thanks to Miele, this is no longer the case. The DG4080 has taken all the guesswork out of preparing healthy foods and is far and away one of the most revolutionary products I have ever seen. I have personally been through quite a few demonstrations with this product and eaten quite a few meals that are made in it, and over the course of this article, I will explain to you and give you examples that will hopefully lead you to want to own this product. The hefty price tag (approximately $2500) this unit has is a turnoff for customers and salespeople alike who are unfamiliar with the wonders that this item possesses. Walk into most retail appliance showrooms and you’ll have no idea what this item can do because many of them don’t have it hooked up. You can see it, you can touch it, but unless you can see how it works, you can’t appreciate what a difference it will make in the way you prepare your meals. Did I mention that you can prepare a healthy meal in around 10 minutes?

While I know you’re excited to get started, we’ll talk about the tangible uses for this item in another article. In the meantime, let me let me start by telling you a bit about what it comes with and how it operates. To get started, we’ll discuss the installation of this product. It’s a 24-inch wide electric appliance which is set up to be built-in, and does required a dedicated 240V line, which may be difficult if you’re installing it into an existing kitchen and don’t readily have access to your junction box. However, I highly recommend having a qualified electrician carefully read the installation instructions and review the electrical requirements for this item when running the electrical line to the location where you’re installing this product. I would say that the vast majority of service calls I have seen for this product have involved problems with the incoming line with not enough power, or a similar electrical issue. There’s nothing worse to have a technician come to your home to service a product, only to find out that the problem was caused by an incorrect installation. For best results, it’s recommended that you hire a factory authorized Miele technician for the installation of this product for two reasons. The first is that they will check to make sure that all the requirements are meant to ensure the proper functionality of this oven. The second reason is that an authorized Miele installer will also add an additional warranty to your product. One benefit to this product is it doesn’t need to be installed near a

water source, as it has its own water reservoir which you’ll fill each time you wish to use it. You’ll also need to simply empty it when you’re finished. The unit comes with 3 perforated stainless steel pans, 1 solid stainless steel drip pan, and 1 stainless steel wire rack. These pans are what you will use when preparing food inside this oven, and you can order additional ones from Miele once you get comfortable with the function of this product and begin making your own recipes in this oven.

entertAIn In styleContinued

The functionality of this unit is very simple. Like their wall ovens, Miele has incorporated their “Masterchef” food menu system, which makes using this product unbelievably simple. All you do is simply select the type of food you wish to cook, and the unit sets itself automatically to your preferences. One interesting thing about this unit is that for vegetables, the cooking time is exactly the same, regardless of whether or not they are fresh or frozen. All you do is select the “desired tenderness” (how crispy or soft you’d like them to be) and the unit adjusts the time accordingly. Once you get comfortable with this unit, you’ll also notice that you’re able to cook multiple types of food at the same time with no crossover of flavors. In other words, if you’re cooking carrots and broccoli (provided they’re being cooked in separate trays), the carrots won’t taste like broccoli and the broccoli won’t taste like carrots. This is because the unit is a “convection” steam oven, which prevents this from happening. Now that we’ve got you started, the next article will outline examples of how you can make some healthy meals in a short period of time for your family.

For more information on the Miele Steam Oven, contact Morrison Supply by calling 936.632.7444.

/ Your Home

tjmag.com / 19CommuNITYYour


Lhot spots

Looking for a great way to spend Valentines this year? Look no further. The Junior League of Lufkin’s annual Charity Ball is your Hot Spot for February.

The annual event will be an elegant evening that you and your valentine will not want to miss.

With this being the event’s 34th year, the luxurious Tuscan theme properly named Bella Sera (A Beautiful Evening) will offer you everything beautiful!

More important than the food, atmosphere, and great friends is why this group has put together such an exquisite event. There is a group of fifteen ladies, all members of The Junior League of Lufkin (JLL), that have worked tirelessly for a year crossing their T’s and dotting their I’s all for something bigger than the ball. All the money raised from ticket sales, raffle tickets sales, auction items, along with the sales of various

special items—go right back to helping the projects the organization serves.

This event is an annual fundraiser to help with many community service projects in Angelina County. Samie Montes, Charity Ball Chair, says, “This is the heart behind why each of us has put blood, sweat, and tears into making this event a success. We want

to raise as much money as possible.” The focus behind JLL is to educate and empower women and children. This can be seen through many of the projects the League has a hand in throughout the county.

One of the signature projects of the League is the School Supply and Backpack project. A majority of the funds raised will go to this one project. $15,000 dollars is set aside annually to buy supplies which are hand delivered to school counselors’ offices throughout Angelina County. The counselor’s office is a huge detail in the whole event. Why? That way when parents realize they do not have the funds available to get supplies for their children (or students arrive on the first day of school without any supplies), students can very discretely receive supplies.

The School Supplies and Backpacks are just one of the many projects the League supports. Some League members volunteer their time to partner with Prevent Blindness and perform eye screenings on over 3,000 Angelina County students. Lorelle Coleman, VP of Community Projects, shares, “The eye screening we perform could be the only way some students get the help they need. The students in need of a more thorough check and possibly glasses are then referred to an optometrist.”

Charity Ball

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A newer League project is called Family Nights. The event’s purpose is to bring families together. A warm meal is served at local elementary schools throughout the year along with informative presentations for the parents and children. Other League projects are Career Conference which provides all of the Lufkin Middle School 8th graders a glimpse of the “real world.” Camp Get Fit and Kids in the Kitchen is an initiative to get kids moving and teach them healthy food choices. Along with these projects, the League partners throughout the year to fund non- profit agencies that tie in with their mission.

Tierney states, “The Ball is a vehicle to raise funds so that we may continue the work in our community. It is through community participation and support that the Junior League is able to make a difference in our area, and impact the lives of numerous women and children. As a League, we look forward to donating more financial assistance and countless volunteer hours as an investment in this wonderful place we call home!”

This list of projects is just a glimpse of what the women of JLL offer to the community. In order to offer the funding it takes to operate these projects, the League needs the help of citizens of the community, local businesses and agencies.

The Bella Sera Ball is your chance to help the mission of The Junior League of Lufkin. The hardworking committee has worked tirelessly to bring you an elegant evening with the Billie Ledbetter Orchestra on tap to perform. As always, the ball will have one of a kind auction items such as Spring Training with Brandon Belt, a Pandora Charm Bracelet with ten charms, a Boggy Slough hunt, and many more.

If you are unable to attend the event, you can donate by purchasing a raffle ticket with wonderful items such as a Rolex watch, Winchester rifle, Plasma TV, groceries from Brookshire Brothers, and a Canon Powershot digital camera. There is also a casual Pre-Ball event if you would like to see the décor and partake in a fun night out which will include a wine tasting.

Bella Sera, JLL’s Charity Ball, will offer an enchanting evening, but more importantly you know you are helping a wonderful cause making Angelina County a stronger community. Make plans to attend the event. For reservations call 414-2289 or email [email protected]

Special Thanks need to be given to all the Junior League of Lufkin’s Helping Hands donors: Brookshire Brothers; Memorial Health Systems; First Bank and Trust; DP

Solutions; Bettye & Murphy George Foundation; Johnson Pools & Spas; Caldwell & Loper Custom Homes; The Journey/East Magazine; The Plunk Law Group LLC; Lufkin Industries; Woodland Heights Medical Center; Bancorp South; Lufkin Dealers Auto Auction; The Center for Sight; Winston & Denman Timber; Children’s Clinic of Lufkin, P.A.; Winston Land & Cattle; Commercial Bank of Texas; Zeleskey, Cornelius, Hallmark, Roper, & Hicks, L.L.P.; Alexander, Lankford, & Hiers, Inc.; Angelina Hardwood Sales--Trey & Brigettee Henderson; Bartlett, Baggett, & Shands Ins.; Borgfeld & White, P.C.; Broford Corp.; Troy T. Coleman, M.D.; Dream Homes & Drafting; DreamWorks Anesthesia; Elliot Electric Supply; Forester Group, Inc.; Hesters & Sanders Architecture; Huxley Bay Marina; Morgan Insurance Agency; The Advanced Financial Group; Law Office of Jason S. Armstrong; Whataburger; Angelina Savings Bank; Deaton Law Firm; Alvis-Brookshire & Associates, Merrill Lynch; Mary K. Grum; Dr. Fred & Lisa Griffin; Wayne & Lisa Haglund; Mary Martha Henderson; Liz Jeffrey; Lynda Langston; Carolin & Raymond Sanders; Virginia H. Winston; Wright Buick Pontiac GMC--Kim Wright; Dot Brookshire; Anita Caraway; Rebecca Chance; Jean Dillahunty; Llewellyn Frazier; Andrea Friesen; Kim Kassaw; Kathy Martin; Taylor & Theresa McKewen; Nancy H. Reily; Janice Ann Rowe; Patti Smithhart; Ellen Sorrell; Thalia Tierney; and Jetta Koch Westerholm.


MBusIness spotlIghtMemorial Health System of East Texas

Memorial Health System of East Texas is comprised of four hospitals

across East Texas—they are located in Lufkin, San Augustine, Livingston, and there

is a Memorial Specialty Hospital.

According to Marketing Director, Yana Ogletree, “We are the largest health care system in the deep East Texas area. Memorial Health System of East Texas is a private, not-for-profit hospital that provides care to almost a quarter of a million patients each year. Since its inception in 1949, Memorial Health System has paved the way for quality, innovative health care in East Texas.”

The health system offers many services to the community, including the specialty hospital, Arthur Temple Sr. Regional Cancer Center, the Horace C. Polk Regional Diabetes Center, and Wound and Hyperbaric Therapy. The specialty hospital is the only rural long-term acute care facility within the area. Ogletree states, “MHSET is founded and funded by the people it serves.”

The most exciting piece of all the services offered is the new state of the art Heart and Stroke Center. This 106,000 square foot facility is home to East Texas’ first center dedicated specifically to care for the heart and stroke needs of the community. Prior to The Cardiovascular & Stroke Center of East Texas opening their doors, many would choose to leave town to receive the treatment they needed. That is exactly what the highly trained staff of surgeons, physicians, specialists, nurses and technicians had in mind—to keep patients close to home.

According to Bryant Krenek, President & CEO of Memorial Health System of East Texas, the Cardiovascular & Stroke Center houses the latest

in evidence-based design that includes energy efficient mechanical and electrical systems, space planning that is patient centered, wide use of natural lighting, and staff area design concepts that have proven to reduce staff fatigue and improve overall patient outcomes.

The spacious Cardiovascular & Stroke Center is home to a new and expanded emergency department, which has 23 exam rooms with 3 major trauma rooms. An additional 6 existing exam rooms are available for overflow, for a total of 32 rooms. Admitting and registration for the new Center includes x-ray and lab services, allowing patients to stay within the Center for all admissions requirements. The new intensive care unit also doubled in size from the previous beds available, now at 24 rooms.

“This is an exciting time for East Texas as we continue to position the area as a regional health care hub,” said Krenek. From the hospital’s professional staff of talented heart surgeons, cardiologists and neurologists to its highly skilled nurses and patient care technicians, East Texans can stay close to home for all their health care needs.”

The Cardiovascular & Stroke Center of East Texas is the area’s first dedicated heart and stroke care facility.

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BusIness connectIonsExpand Your Horizons

E The American Association of University Women is a group of hard

working volunteers that have big hearts. This organization successfully hosts an annual

event known as Expanding Your Horizons. After research by the national level of AAUW, they found there was a lack of women going into fields in mathematics and science. They also found girls performed equally to boys in those subjects until middle school.

This year, the event will celebrate its 16th year. Kathryn Robertson states, “Last year was our largest year, based on attendance, with over 550 girls.” Expanding Your Horizons is an event for girls in grades sixth through eighth. It is a career-oriented workshop.

According to Robertson, the girls arrive at Stephen F. Austin State University, attend three workshops, one general session, and have lunch at the University Center. The entire event has an emphasis on math and science.

The event is one that is supported by the generosity of local businesses and individuals. SFASU is also an important partner in making

this event a success. Attendees pay a small fee for lunch and a t-shirt.

It is important that AAUW continues this event year after year. “We want to encourage girls to plan early to attend college and take courses in high school that will help them. We also want to show girls what careers are out there,” explains Robertson.

The feedback from the event is nothing but positive! Last year, the opening speaker for the event was Dr. Sarah Canterbuy. She works in the Biology Department at SFA. Dr. Canterbuy is originally from Chireno and attended Expanding Your Horizons as a girl. She went on to attend SFA and received a Ph.D. from Texas A & M. This years keynote speaker is Dolapo Sokunbi. Sukunbi is a PreAP Biology student who is now a senior pre-med student at Rice. She attended EYH as a student, and her mother Dr. Modupe Sokunbi has been a faithful and popular presenter for years.

Michelle Williams, a member of the EYH committee, says, “There are many positives comments from the girls, sponsors, and parents.”

Without a group of women giving their time, talents, and energy, events like Expanding Your Horizons would not be possible. Mark your calendar for February 13 for this wonderful event. To learn more, contact Kathryn Robertson at [email protected]

Photo: left to right: Michelle Williams, Kathryn Robertson, Donna Heeney, Donna Christopher, and Linda Black


Ribbon CuttingsLightning Auto Sales Tire & Equipment held a Ribbon Cutting on Wednesday, December 16th.

Located at 901 S. Timberland Drive at the corner of Timberland and Tulane, Lightning Tire specializes in tires, wheels, and pickup truck accessories. They have a variety of used vehicles, new and used motorcycles, and ATV’s in stock. Helmets and accessories in different sizes and styles are available, too. Pictured are owners Ed and Cathy George, their staff, and members of the Lufkin/Angelia County Chamber of Commerce Diplomats team.

Cellular One of East Texas celebrated their Grand Opening with a Ribbon Cutting on Thursday, January 7th. Located at 3057 S. John Redditt Drive in Lufkin, Cellular One specializes in wireless phones and services. Stop by or call at 936-637-7561 and see what they can do for you! Pictured are Store Manager Tim Alvey and staff and members of the Lufkin/Angelina County Chamber of Commerce.

Twin City Orthotics and Prosthetics celebrated their Grand Opening with a Ribbon Cutting on Tuesday, January 12th. Twin City Orthotics and Prosthetics is located at 1607 W. Frank Ave., Suite 111. They specialize in prosthetics, orthotics, shoes for diabetics, and mastectomy fittings. They build artificial limbs right there in the office from taking precise measurements during the fitting process. Pictured are owners Brooks Raney and Lauren Wlazlowski, along

with members of the Lufkin/Angelina County Chamber of Commerce Diplomats team.

Rose Nail & Spa held a Ribbon Cutting on Wednesday, January 13th. Rose Nail & Spa is a professional nail care salon that offers solar nails, tips overlay, nail designs, refills, manicures, spa pedicures, waxing, and facial massage. They are located at 103 N. Brentwood Dr. Suite #300 in the Wal-Mart shopping center. Call them at 936.632.2200 for an appointment today! Walk-ins are welcome. Pictured are the owners and staff of Rose Nail & Spa and members of the Lufkin/Angelina County Chamber of Commerce Diplomats team.

AngelInA countychAmBer of commerce

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AngelInA countychAmBer of commerce

nAcogdoches countychAmBer of commerceChamber and SFA Athletics plan to Cram the Coliseum Get free tickets for Cram the Coliseum events. Go by the Chamber, 2516 North Street, or ask a Chamber member for tickets to these two SFA basketball games:• 7 p.m., Wednesday, Feb. 24. Ladyjacks vs. Texas State .• 2 p.m., Saturday, Feb. 27. Lumberjacks vs. Corpus Christie.Both games played in SFA’s William R. Johnson Coliseum, North University Drive“If you’re a little dribblers coach or a children’s group leader or youth group leader, this is the perfect opportunity to enjoy a university athletic event for free,” Athletics Assistant Director John Branch said. “We’re looking for record-setting numbers for these games.”

New look for Chamber Web siteThe Chamber of Commerce website has a fresh-for-2010 look to complement the 2010 directory and map.

Michele Peck with Point A Media said the Chamber Web site’s calendar is worth 30 seconds of viewing for every person, every day.

“If you’re involved in planning an event, the very first item on your ‘to do list’ should be checking the Chamber’s event calendar for conflicts,” Peck said. “Then post your event details on the calendar for all to see.”

Site visitors who subscribe to the Chamber’s free RSS feeds will receive updated news and registration information delivered directly to their desktops, PDAs, or phones.Find these Chamber links - Twitter, Facebook, NacBlog Shop Nac First, online photo album - and more.

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Ribbon Cuttings | celeBrAtIng good thIngs In BusInessG.O.D.T.E.L. Ministries New facility, 620 Jordan St . Directors June and Nancy Gentry, Missions Director Royce Olive, ph: 569-7914.

Nacogdoches County Democratic PartyNew office, 901 E. Main St .Chairman Stephen Wright, ph: 462-1210.

Shine SalonNew business, 105 Upton St .Owner Bradley Pollard, ph: 559-9309.

MoRe ChaMbeR events Check the online calendar at www.Nacogdoches.org for details.Ribbon Cutting, Women’s Shelter of East Texas. 4 p.m., Friday, Feb. 5.Ribbon Cutting, Cowboy Custom Golf Carts. 11:30 a.m., Tuesday, Feb. 9.Lone Star Legislative Summit . Evening reception on Feb. 17. Summit sessions on Feb. 18.Ribbon Cutting, Practitioners on the Go. 11:45 a.m., Tuesday, Feb. 23.Ribbon Cutting, Signature Smiles. 1:30 p.m., Thursday, Feb. 25.Fourth Friday Luncheon. Speaker James Thompson, SFA Board of Regents Chairman and Mayor of Sugarland.

nAcogdoches countychAmBer of commerce

Always know the latest Nacogdoches newsTwitter.com/NacChamber - Twitter updates for Chamber.

Twitter.com/TxBlueberryFest - Twitter updates for Texas Blueberry Festival.

www.Nacogdoches.org - The Nacogdoches County Chamber Web site is also a great place to find a community event! Online calendar (submit your events, too), links to the Chamber events photo albums, Shop Nac First and NacBlog sites, and more!


February 2010 cAlendAr of events

2 Black History Month ExhibitionAngelina Center for the Arts – 936-633-5359

4 Arbor Day Tree Seedling Give-a-wayLufkin Mall Parking Lot – 936-632-5326

5SFA Planetarium – Marsquest$2; 7 p.m.(12, 26,March 5) Contact: SFA Planetarium at (936) 468-3009

5Secret Keeper Girl7:00 p.m. - 9:00 p.m.For info call: Crystal BradsherOak Grove Baptist ChurchGirls today face pressures earlier than their mothers did. Live Event offers Moms proventools to coach their 8-12 year-old girls into meaningful friendships, true beauty, biblicalmodesty and vibrant purity.936-569-0756

6Farmer’s MarketNacogdochesShop for homemade and homegrown items. Over 25 vendors sell everything from fresh produce to locally handcrafted items. Browse at your leisure, enjoy the music and get acquainted with your neighbors who are also looking for just the right bargain. FREE8 a.m.-NoonEvery Wednesday and Saturday107 Pearl Street (Old Hitch Lot—corner of West Main and Pearl Streets)Contact: Nacogdoches Farmer’s Market at (936) 559-2507http://farmermktnac.blogspot.com

6Creative Art SaturdayNacogdoches2 p.m.The Cole Art Center, 329 E. Main St.Contact: The Cole Art Center at (936) 468-6407www.art.sfasu.edu

6-7 Region V High School Rodeo George H. Henderson Jr. Exposition Center – 936-637-3976

7Lamp-Lite Theatre “Oklahoma”NacogdochesRodgers and Hammerstein’s Great American Musical! Set in Oklahoma Territory outside the town of Claremore in 1906, it tells the story of cowboy Curly McLain and his romance with farm girl Laurey Williams. $15 adult, $12 senior, $8 student/child2:00 p.m. Contact: Lamp-Lite Theatre at (936) 564-8300 www.lamplitetheatre.org

9 Fun in the Forest After Dark Texas Forestry Museum - 936-632-9535

12Jazz on the PatioNacogdoches Enjoy live jazz music on The Patio at the Hotel Fredonia.FREE; 7:00 p.m.(19, 26, March 5, 12, 19, 26)200 N. Fredonia St.Contact: Hotel Fredonia at (936) 564-1234www.hotelfredonia.com

1334th Annual Junior League of Lufkin Charity BallBella Sera (A Beautiful Evening)7:00p.m. Lufkin Civic CenterFor ticket reservations call 414-2289 or email [email protected]

13-14Millard’s Flea MarketNacogdochesHunt for treasures from dawn to dusk every second weekend of the month. Located on the east side of U.S. 59 just north of Nacogdoches at 6020 North Street. For more information, call (936) 564-4490.FREE; From dawn until dusk6020 North Street

15GriefShare Seminar and support group for those grieving the death of someone close to them Weekly meetings on Mondays 5:30-7:00 pm Lufkin’s First Baptist Church (2nd Street Parlor Entrance). For more information, call Joy Rich at 936-676-3121.

15-19 61st Annual Angelina County Youth FairGeorge H. Henderson Jr. Exposition Center – 936-634-6644

16How Children with Autism Think and How we can help ThemPresented by Dr. Ginger KelsoBurke Center 6:30-8:30Seating is limited. Register by Feb 8.936.639.1141

18PRAY! Nacogdoches 407 E. Hospital Street Open to anyone would like to come pray for Nacogdoches.Call Tonya for more information at 615-4109

182010 Les Reeves Lecture Series “Celia Jones Sister’s Bulb Farm”NacogdochesContact: SFA Ag Department at (936) 468-1863www.ag.sfasu.edu

20-21Nacogdoches Trade DaysNacogdoches Trade Days is set on 20 acres in the “oldest town in Texas”. We have approximately 300 spaces available and invite the sale of a wide variety of merchandise. Shoppers enjoy ample parking, paved walkways, clean restrooms, and food concessions on premises. We make every effort to provide a fun, family atmosphere and draw shoppers from several surrounding counties. FREEFrom dawn until dusk;1304 N.W. Stallings Drive (Loop 224)

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Send us your events at [email protected]. Submission deadline is the 15th of the month prior to publication.

(January 15th for the February issue)In order for your event to be included please list all ofthe following:

Date, Event Name, Brief Description, Event Location, Time, and Contact.

Contact: Nacogdoches Trade Days at (936)-675-4099; www.nacogdochestradedays.net

22Changing The Path Autism Support Group6:00 p.m.Saint Cyprian’s Episcopal Church, Lufkin Childcare provided if neededRSVP:Tennessee Love; 936 414-2767 [email protected]

25Comedy Night Nacogdoches Featuring Scott White$8 pre sale $10 at the doorDoors open at 7 p.m., show starts at 8 p.m.Hotel Fredonia, 200 N. Fredonia St.Contact: Hotel Fredonia at (936) 564-1234www.hotelfredonia.org

26PineKnot Music Co-OpNacogdoches8 p.m.Millard’s Crossing Historic Village, 6020 North St.Contact: PineKnot Music Co-Op at (936) 552-7462www.pineknotmusic.com

27 Bull Bash George H. Henderson Jr. Exposition Center – 936-637-3976

mArch 20102-6SFA Fine Arts-“A Raisin in the Sun”NacogdochesJoin SFA Fine Arts for Lorraine Hansberry’s A Raisin in the Sun, the first play written by a black woman to be produced on Broadway. Set in the 1950s on the South Side of Chicago, it is the story of the dreams every member of the Younger household is struggling to attain. Allen Oster directs.$18 adult, $12 senior, $6 student7:30 p.m.SFA Turner Auditorium, 2222 Alumni Dr.Contact: SFA Box Office at (935) 468-6407www.finearts.sfasu.edu

2-6SFA Fine Arts-“American Ballet II”Nacogdoches

Hand-picked from around the world by the artistic staff of American Ballet Theatre, these 14 dancers (ages 16 to 20) present a varied repertoire that is rooted in classical ballet but also includes premieres of new choreographers. Single tickets: $35 for A seating, $29 for B seating and $17.50 for C seating.7:30 p.m.SFA Turner Auditorium, 2222 Alumni Dr.Contact: SFA Box Office at (935) 468-6407www.finearts.sfasu.edu

5First Friday Cruise NightsNacogdochesJoin us in historic downtown Nacogdoches, and shop late till eight! Participating downtown merchants will stay open from 5-8 p.m. for all of your shopping needs.FREE5 p.m. to 8 p.m.March 5Downtown NacogdochesContact: Nacogdoches Main Street at (936) [email protected]

5-62010 Relay for LifeNacogdoches7 p.m.-7 a.m.March 5-6Nacogdoches Expo CenterContact: (936) 552-4254

6Creative Art SaturdayNacogdoches2 p.m.March 6The Cole Art Center, 329 E. Main St.Contact: The Cole Art Center at (936) 468-6407www.art.sfasu.edu

61st Saturday Sidewalk SaleNacogdochesJoin us the first Saturday of the month for a variety of unique and specialty items all at your fingertips. FREE10 a.m.March 6Downtown NacogdochesContact: Nacogdoches Main Street at (936) [email protected]


Yo u r Co m m u n i t Y / / Your CommuNITY

Places FacesPASSIoNATe PurSuIT

Shades of Grace • Piney Woods Country Club • January 14, 2010 • Nacogdoches

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BrIDAL FAIr A-1 Party Rentals • Lufkin Civic Center • January 10, 2010 • Lufkin


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KurTH memorIAL LIBrArY GALA January 23, 2010 • Lufkin

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RUNAWAY BUNNY Angelina Arts Alliance • Temple Theater

January 16, 2010 • Lufkin

FourTH FrIDAY Nacogdoches Chamber of Commerce

Hotel Fredonia • January 22, 2010 • Nacogdoches


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CHAmBer BANQueTAngelina Chamber of Commerce • Lufkin Civic Center • January 28, 2010

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UPWARD BASKETBALLFirst United Methodist Church • Lufkin

gIvIng BAckGriefShare

Losing a loved one is one thing that no one hopes to ever experience. Unfortunately,

it is a part of life so all of us have to cope with at some point. Losing a loved one sooner than

expected is an even more of a tragedy to try to cope with. Regardless of your personal circumstance, there is a new group lending a hand and offering a shoulder. GriefShare will meet every Monday from 5:30-7 p.m. for 13 weeks beginning February 15.

This group began because of the tremendous loss three women have experienced. Joy Rich lost her daughter Shea in a car accident. Martha Chandler lost her son Reich to cancer. Barbara Mathis lost her daughter Lauralyn to cancer. All three of these mothers lost their children much earlier than they ever imagined.

Joy remembers, “Martha heard about Griefshare, looked into it and ordered the information. She then opened her home and invited Barbara and me, along with a few others. It was just a small intimate group in her home.”

Martha Chandler heard about the group from a friend who had a great loss. The friend joined Griefshare in her hometown and began to share the daily devotional with her. Little by little, Martha began to see there was a network of help.

“Grief is very isolating. In grief, we tend to think that no one can possibly know or understand the depth of what we feel. In a sense, that is true, because each loss is unique to the individual. But to be in a group with others who have suffered great loss offers an opportunity to share and to understand we are not alone, and that there is life and growth through grief,” said Chandler.

Grief Share is a seminar and support group for those who are grieving the death of someone close. The intimate group that first met realized that there was a lot that can be gained from the information. “We now want to open it to any and everyone who has lost a loved one. We want to do what we can to help others who are grieving. These sessions give great direction and guidance in the grieving process,” said Rich

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Barbara Mathis adds, “This might be someone’s only outlet to grieve. I have Peyton and we do help each other, but sometimes I think it is too painful for him to discuss. GriefShare gives me another outlet.”

“We can never know, in this earthly life, why sad happenings come to us. But I believe that God puts each of us here to help one another, to bring something good out of what we humans determine to be bad. Martha has been a wonderful support to me. Her son and my daughter went to heaven within two months of one another,” said Mathis.

Joy shares, “Losing my daughter is, without a doubt, the most difficult thing I have ever had to deal with. Offering GriefShare to the community is important to me because it allows me to give back what has been given to me. It helped me, and I want any and everyone who needs help to have the same opportunity. In going through GriefShare, I learned there is no way around grief, except straight through it. It helped me to understand that grieving is a process and everyone grieves differently.”

Barbara, Joy, and Martha want everyone to know that it is never too early or too late to seek help--the timing must be God’s timing for each individual.

GriefShare will be held every Monday 5:30 to 7:00 pm beginning February 15 thru May 10th (13 weeks). The meetings will be held at Lufkin’s First Baptist Church (2nd Street Parlor Entrance). It is non-denominational and everyone is welcome. There is no pre-registration required and if anyone should have any questions they can contact Joy at 936-676-3121, Martha Chandler at 936-632-1614, or Barbara Mathis at 936-634-6253.


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CCarla Poage

Carla Poage is having to endure something she never planned for.

Carla had a life very similar to many other women. She is a wife, a mother of two

energetic boys, a teacher, a friend, a daughter. This past year, she has been really tested and put under circumstances that a normal 31 year old does not has to face.

Carla was born and raised in Lufkin. She met her husband while they were both attending SFA. Carla married Frederick Poage and they have two boys, Bryton, 5, and Brodyn, 2. Carla says, “We absolutely love to spend time with our family and friends and go to church. Fred’s Dad pastors Clawson Assembly of God.”

Life was normal for the Poage family up until this May. The family got the wonderful news that Fred was accepted into the Medical Sciences program at the University of North Texas Health Science Center. “We moved to Fort Worth so Fred could attend medical school starting in this fall.” Upon the move, Carla began applying for teaching jobs. All summer she was on the hunt. It wasn’t until the first day of school that she signed a contract with Eagle Mountain Saginaw ISD. Carla started teaching freshman biology in the Fort Worth area.

“Thank the Lord I was able to get a job and have insurance. I did not know what the future held, but God did.”

This past July, Carla had to have her gall bladder removed and an ovarian cyst drained. Not too long after in August, she began having

abdominal pain. She finally went to see a gastrointestinal specialist in September. Her physician immediately sent her to get a CT.

Carla recalls, “Thirty minutes after my CT, my doctor called me on my cell phone and said the CT showed an 11 cm mass in my pelvic region. He sent me that very minute to the hospital to get a biopsy.”

It was not too long before Carla received the news. The biopsy came back positive for ovarian cancer.

“My doctor said it was highly unusual for a 31 year old to have this type of cancer. It is usually seen only in women who are in their late 40’s to early 50’s. I was stunned,” said Carla.

Carla strength and support system immediately came into play. “In the hospital, after being diagnosed with ovarian cancer, I realized that this would be a battle that I would have to fight. I began searching for battles in the Bible. Through scripture I found that this battle was not mine, but the Lord’s. And if I continued to seek Him in prayer and the Word, that God would fight this battle for me. 2 Chr 20:15 states, “Be not afraid nor dismayed by reason of this great multitude; for the battle is not yours, but God’s,” Carla stated.

A few days after her diagnosis, she was introduced to Dr. Bruce Fine at Medical City Hospital in Dallas. He was able to perform

surgery immediately. Dr. Fine would be able to tell Carla and her family what stage the cancer was in right after surgery. The actual surgery started at 7p.m. and lasted until 11 p.m. The reports indicated the cancer had spread to Carla’s entire abdominal area. The cancer did not spread to into her organs or chest, so it was staged at 3C ovarian cancer.

Six weeks later, she began chemotherapy.

The regimen Dr. Fine had in mind for Carla was very hard. “He said that only one of his patients has been able to finish all six rounds.” The regimen consisted of Intravenous Taxol into her veins on Day 1, Intraperitoneal Cavity Cisplatin on Day 2 into her peritoneal cavity, and Intraperitoneal Cavity Taxol on Day 8 into

her peritoneal cavity. Then, on Day 21, it starts all over again. Carla said, ”I do this six times. All my praise to the Lord, I just finished

my fifth round and I have just one more to go this month. After my sixth round, I begin maintenance chemotherapy in March.”

Her maintenance consists of Intravenous Taxol once a month for one year. The doctor reassured her that it will be “a piece of cake” compared to the last six months.

“The last five months have been very hard and I have gotten through them only through His Word and prayer first of all (Psalm 103 :1-5 Bless the Lord, O my soul: and all that is within me, bless his holy name. Bless the Lord, O my soul, and forget not all his benefits: Who forgiveth all thine iniquities; who healeth all thy diseases; Who redeemeth thy life from

Inspiring Young Woman


destruction; who crowneth thee with loving kindness and tender mercies; Who satisifieth thy mouth with good things; so that thy youth is renewed like the eagle’s.), and second because of the support from my family and friends. My family, especially my mother, Nina Lewis, and my father, Dr. Carlton Lewis, have been by my side, taking care of me and our two boys while allowing Fred to continue school at UNTHSC. My mother-in-law Tina and my two grandmothers Grace and Geneva have also come to Fort Worth to help, as well as other members of my

family. My husband through this has shown me unconditional, devoted love and support while studying for hours on end and doing fantastic in school,” said Carla.

Today, five months later, she is remains steadfast. Carla explains, “From the very beginning of this

battle five months ago I have known that I have been called and chosen by God to be a testimony for Him through this battle with cancer and beyond it. Because of these afflictions that I have had, I can better understand another’s pain and suffering of similar magnitude. I am here for people who are going through or will go through

the same to let them know that through His Word and prayer you can get through anything.”

Inspiring Woman


G Gabriella Roberts has mastered her craft in the

“Art of Survival.” Like many other women, her past has shaped

her present. God has placed her in situations in her life journey so she could put her words into action and help other women.

She moved to East Texas after a move with her family. Gabriella says she did not know that she would later call the Pineywoods her home. She soon met her husband in a Dojo (place of practice) in Nacogdoches called Matzukaze Budo (Wind through the Pines). She immediately fell in love with Martial Arts.

Being the only woman in the class only fueled her drive to do her very best. Roberts jokes, “After all, I was with men twice my size!” It was that experience that allowed Roberts to realize that Martial Arts was beneficial not only to protect our bodies, but also to strengthen our minds.

Roberts and her husband soon went on to become instructors. “This was my way to give back to the community and I wanted women to understand and change their perception of Martial Arts.” Many women seem to think martial arts is hard on the body or mind. According to Roberts, it is the complete opposite.

She exclaims,” This is when my passion began!”

Helping women gave her the opportunity to work with many body types and experience many angles. Working specifically with women gave her the opportunity to fine tune the craft and

teaching for the needs of women. “I was able to apply the comments and concerns of my female students,” said Roberts. Roberts has continued to develop her skills for over ten years. Gabriella Roberts currently holds the highest rank under the founder of the Mushnin Budo system- -a Fourth Degree Black-Belt.

A short while after starting her women-only classes, Roberts created “Art of Survival.” Because she came from an abusive background, her passion for Martial Arts, and the many years spent training women, she wanted to create a program designed specifically for women. “Art of Survival accommodates working women and busy Moms that are tight on time, giving women the “meat” of defense from the first lesson, I incorporate straight to the point technique with mental and spiritual preparation.”

Roberts says the three most important elements to know are: do not get complacent (prevention), stay calm in any situation, and listen to your instinct.

“I cannot preach enough about preventing of attack, but if you are put in the situation with no control of your own--all women need to know how to react. You have to be trained on how to perceive an attack and deal with the adrenaline rush that comes with the reaction. In order to react with a calm mind, it is important to practice the reaction by repetition,” said Roberts.

Roberts has a system to stay in a healthy body. “My routine consists of equipping myself with the full armor of God from the time I open my eyes to visually placing the armor on, while

I am getting dressed. It mentally prepares you for the day. (Ephesians 6:13-17.) You have to be consistent with an exercise routine on a weekly basis. Keep it balanced with good cardio /strength training, as well as Martial Arts training at least twice a week. You will have the energy, the time, and the desire to live a healthy lifestyle.” She also reminds us to look at our own experience for strength. “It is healthy to look back into your past for reminders of the strengths and weaknesses that you have endured.”

Art of Survival and Gabriella Roberts want to help strengthen women in East Texas to be of sound mind, body, and spirit. If you are interested in having her speak to a group or schedule private lessons, she can be reached at (936)240-0713 or [email protected]. She also has a training DVD of techniques at attacksurvival.com

Gabriella Roberts Inspiring Woman

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LIFeYour


hall of faMe hubbies

I married my best friend on April 23, 1994. Wow - what a whirlwind the last 16 years have been! My husband’s job in radio often requires lots of long hours and I think the community sometimes forgets that he is first and foremost a husband and father. For example, we spent our first anniversary at a fishing tournament...and that has pretty much set the precedent for much of our marriage. Despite his dedication to his career, Danny is the most wonderful husband and father. He jumps through hoops to make it to baseball, soccer, and basketball games, as well as track meets and dance recitals. Danny also has a romantic side, although he tries to hide it. Sixteen years ago Danny forgot to bring “our song” (“I’d Be a Rich Man” by Steve Warner) to our wedding reception. It was supposed to be the song for our first dance as husband and wife. I was disappointed, but it didn’t spoil our wedding. Unbeknownst to me, a few years ago Danny decided to try and get in contact with Steve Warner and ask him to record a personalized version of the song just for me. This past Christmas morning, I opened a box with a plain CD in it. “To be played at midnight on New Year’s” was written on the cover. So, at midnight, January 1, 2010, he popped in the CD and Steve Warner dedicated “I’d Be a Rich Man” to me! We had a “first dance” all over again in the middle of our friend’s living room floor. Danny Merrell is a man of strong faith and I am so proud that God saw fit to bring us together. He dedicates each day to God, family, and community. Our beautiful children, Chandler - 13, Chase - 10, and Cullen - 5, are so blessed to have him for a father and I am privileged to share my life with him.

Glenda Merrell

My Husband, Chad Collins, is an amazing father and husband. We have been married for 4 years and have a beautiful daughter Kaitlyn (21 months). Chad is the head boys’ basketball coach for Wells ISD and has an indescribable passion for the game. Chad is more than a father, he is a dad. He is a very Christian man and I thank God everyday for bringing us together. We love you,Kacie and Kaitlyn Collins

Chad Collins

Danny Merrell

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Pretty Babies1.

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GAGE CUTTER TERRY | MARCH 2, 2009PROUD PARENTS: JAKE TERRY & PAIGE STONEGRANDPARENTS: DAVID & TERRI TERRY, KIP & TINA STONEHUNTINGTON

LANGsToN GRACE ARRiNGToN | JUNE 3, 2009 PROUD PARENTS: PATRICK AND KACI ARRINGTON LUFKIN

HUTsoN GAUGE CLARk | DECEMBER 18, 2009PROUD PARENTS: SHANE AND SAPPHIRA CLARK OF HUDSONGRANDPARENTS: GARY AND ANNETTE HUTSON, RITA AND JOE KING AND SKIP CLARK.

AbiGAiL MosLEY | AUGUST 21, 2009PROUD PARENTS: THOMAS AND SAMANTHA MOSLEYLUFKIN

pEYToN ALExis MCbRidE | DECEMBER 7,2009 PROUD PARENTS: CHIP AND CANDYCE MCBRIDEGRANDPARENTS: JERRY AND FRANK

ANNiE CARoLiNE sTEwART | NOVEMBER 21, 2009PROUD PARENTS: JOSH & AMY STEWARTGRANDPARENTS: RICHARD & JACKIE WILLIAMSGUY STEWART, PAM STEWART

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We cover everything from top to…you know.

www.woodlandheights.net

C h o o s e W e l l .

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T This Girls Group began as a group of individuals who found out they had the

same mission. These women all registered for the “nation’s premier winter marathon,”

according to the marathon’s website. This event pulls participants from nearly all 50 states along with many foreign countries. Each woman had a different goal and reason for signing up to race. Eventually, they connected with each other and decided to become “TEAM LUFKIN.”

This group of girls representing Lufkin joined over 30,000 other people on January 17, 2010, running the Chevron Houston Marathon and the Aramco Half Marathon. The team includes: Stephanie Cook, Robin Flournoy, Lisa Flounoy, Renee Robertson, Daryl Latham, Julianne Greak, and Monica Hailey. Everyone except for Stephanie Cook ran the half marathon, while Cook chose to run the full marathon.

Each woman had something different in mind, but the encouraging part for the group was that there was a group working toward the same goal.

Julianne Greak explains, ”My brother encouraged me last June to run the half marathon. At the time of our conversation, the most distance I had run was 2 miles, and I had only been running for 3 weeks. I didn’t think it was possible for me to even consider running a half marathon. So I started training and trained for 12 weeks prior to the Houston marathon.”

Another member, Stephanie Cook, stated, “I have always walked or jogged for exercise, but never imagined I would run a marathon. When you are training it is such a feeling of accomplishment as you watch your mileage increase each week. Each week you push yourself a little farther than you did before. In our fast paced world, life as a wife, mother, and employee can sometimes seem

overwhelming. When you hit the road, you have a few hours to escape the demands of life and enjoy some time alone or with a great friend. I began running half marathons about 3 years ago when Robin suggested we run the Houston Half. We missed the registration deadline that year, so we ran the Tyler Half instead. We have been training and running together since that time.”

All the women have their personal reasons for running. This group alone, not to mention the 30,000 other participants, have a wide range of backgrounds--some are stay at home moms, one is a US District Attorney, another a pharmaceutical rep, and one a pharmacist. Regardless of their backgrounds, runners enjoy the time, the peace, and the relaxation. But they also enjoy setting goals and working towards a new goal.

Lisa Flournoy jokes, “Training for a half-marathon gives me a goal to work toward. It makes me push myself to run farther and faster than I would otherwise. I’m already thinking about where and when I want to run next. A half-marathon for me is sort of like the saying about a having a baby: if you remembered the pain, you wouldn’t do it again!”

All of them have said they do want to train and run another race. But, more than that--they all agree that taking time out for something they personally enjoy makes them all a better wife, mom, and friend. Daryl Latham said, “My husband can tell the difference when I don’t get to make time to run.” Monica Hailey agrees,saying, “I am a better mother after making time for a good run.”

“Running is important to me because it has helped build my confidence and self-esteem. It gives me a feeling of empowerment knowing that I have set a personal goal and achieved it. Another huge benefit of running for me is that it provides stress relief,” explained Robin Flournoy.

Renee Robertson said, “Running is such a wonderful way for me to re-connect and have some ‘thinking’ time. I think women should make time to get out and exercise even if you’re not running and you just have a good friend to get out and walk with. Enjoying God’s beautiful creation is one of the reasons I like running so much.”

Each woman uses her running time to benefit herself, whether it is physically, emotionally, or mentally. In today’s faced paced hectic world, it gets harder and harder to carve out time for you. TEAM LUFKIN has learned it is all worth the effort!

/ Your LIFe

gIrls groupTeam Lufkin

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Eyour wAlletWhat you don’t know about income tax changes can cost you...

By Tammy Boyd Every year changes are made to

the income tax code. This year is no exception. The changes for 2009 are

numerous. Now, more than ever before, it pays to be aware of tax laws. What you don’t know could cost you. Taking advantage of new and expanded credits can help you increase your income tax refund. Let’s look at a few of them.

First Time Homebuyers Credit is extended and expanded to include long time residents.

The deadline for purchasing a home and qualifying for the First Time Homebuyers Credit has been extended to April 30, 2010. If a buyer enters into a binding contract to purchase a home by April 30, 2010, they have until June 30, 2010, to settle the purchase. Long time residents, who did not qualify before, could now possibly qualify for a credit of up to $6500 when purchasing a home.

Increased income limits allow more households to qualify for Earned Income Tax Credit.

In previous years, EITC was allowed for up to two children when claiming the credit. Now, taxpayers are allowed to claim up to three children. The income limits for investment income and total income have also increased, which will allow more taxpayers to qualify for EITC.

Credits for higher education expenses have changed.

The American Opportunity Credit has expanded the benefits of the Hope Credit. While the Hope Credit is limited to only the first two years of college, the American Opportunity Credit can be claimed for the first four years of post-secondary education. The American Opportunity Credit can be up to $2500, which is $700 more than the Hope Credit. Portions of it can also be refundable.

Property taxes paid can still be added to your standard deduction.

Before last year, if you used the standard deduction instead of itemizing your deductions, paying property taxes did not affect your tax return. Beginning with your 2008 return, the amount you pay in property taxes, up to $500 for individuals or $1000 for married filing jointly, can be added to your standard deduction amount, which reduces your taxable income.

Sales tax for new vehicle purchases can be added to your standard deduction.

If you purchased a new vehicle between February 16, 2009, and December 31, 2009, it is possible you could add the sales tax paid to your standard deduction. The addition is limited to the first $49,500 of the purchase price. Vehicles that qualify include many cars, light trucks, motorcycles, and motor homes.

As with any tax credit or deduction, there are qualifications and limits with each of these. Your tax preparer should be familiar with the details and can help you determine which credits are best for you. He or she can help you minimize the amount of tax you pay and maximize any refundable credits for which you qualify.

Tammy Boyd is the senior preparer at Karber-Boyd Tax Service, located at 210 Largent in Lufkin. She is a member of the National Association of Tax Professionals. For more information or documentation concerning any of these changes, feel free to contact her at 936-634-2434 or email her at [email protected].

Wedding Bells

48 / The Journey - January 2010

Do you have an engagement, bridal, or wedding photo you would like to share with The Journey? Email your photo to [email protected]

Kristen Elizabeth Badders & Shannon Carl ConklinMarried December 18, 2009at Vintage Villas in Austin, TexasRon Parks Photographywww.ronparksphotography.com

Dr. and Mrs. James Caskey of Lufkin announce the engagementand approaching marriage of their daughter, Angela KatherineCaskey of Galveston, to Brian Mark Hafernick of Bryan, son ofMr. and Mrs. Mark Hafernick of Diboll. The wedding is plannedfor Saturday, May 15, 2010 at First Christian Church of Lufkin.

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Bridgette Tvrz and John StottWedding date: May 22, 2010Sam Rayburn, TxPhotographer: Melinda Ratcliff

Leah Jones and Scott TomezMarried: January 16, 2010Lufkin, Texas


TrelAtIonshIps“Just let me have the wheel” - By Kathryn Greene

There have been many control issues that I have struggled with during my life.

I would hold people at arm’s length because I did not want then to come too close. I had the

fear that I might get emotionally hurt. I didn’t like to take physical risks either because of the fear of getting hurt. The thought of skiing next to a cliff and then jumping over for the black hill ride down is not even in my brain files! I remember as a little girl I always wanted my entire family home when it got dark – I wanted us all together. I wanted to make sure that we were all safe. I have often wondered where all that insecurity and fear came from.

When I was a teenager, my dad was diagnosed with rheumatoid arthritis. The arthritis was very crippling for him. He had it from the time he was 34 years old until he died at the age of 64. The disease never went into remission – he was always hurting. There were many nights I would cry myself to sleep because I could do nothing to help ease his pain. I felt so out of control.

I have had friends in crisis because of a rebellious child, bankruptcy, the loss of a home, the news of a terminal illness, or the sudden death of a family member. What do you say or do? How can you help to take away their hurt? Words seem so frivolous at the time of the crisis. I have felt very out of control during those times.

I have often heard said that being in control is an illusion. Just when you think you have all your ducks in a row, one gets a mind of his own and does his own thing. Or one of the ducks stops suddenly and all the others pile on top. Or, life is like trying to line up a bunch of marbles – they keep moving on you. These statements are so true!

How do I stop this need to control? The opposite of anxiety is contentment. Contentment comes from learning that God is the One in control. The

one thing that steals our contentment more than anything else is trying circumstances. We crumble and lose our sense of satisfaction and peace when we allow our circumstances to victimize us. The way that we make it through trying circumstances is to have an eternal perspective. This is not the end of the story here on this earth. Any circumstance you face is only temporary. There are a couple of verses in the Bible that the writer, Paul, wrote that speak to my heart: “I have learned how to get along happily whether I have much or little. I know how to live on almost nothing or with everything. I have learned the secret of contentment in every situation, whether it be a full stomach or hunger, plenty or want; for I can do everything God asks me to with the help of Christ who gives me the strength and power.” (Philippians 4:11-13 LB)

Dr. John McArthur in his book, Anxiety Attacked, wrote this:You’ll learn contentment when you’ve stood in the valley of the shadow of death, when you’ve been at the brink, when you can’t resolve your problems, when you can’t eliminate the conflict, when you can’t fix your marriage, when you can’t do anything about the kids, when you can’t change your work environment, when you’re unable to fight the disease that’s wracking your body. That’s when you’ll turn to God and find the strength to get through the situation.

The reason most of us don’t experience contentment is because we demand

our world to be exactly the way we want it to be. We want everything to fit into its neat little compartment and when it doesn’t, we lose our sense of emotional and spiritual balance.Contentment comes when we realize God is the One in control whether He does a miracle or whether He orchestrates circumstances to accomplish His plan. His promise is: “All that is happening to us is working for our good if we love God and are fitting into His plans.” (Romans 8:28 LB)

I believe the resolution to my control issue is to move over and let God have the steering wheel. He knows where I am going and how to get me there – I can trust Him that He does all things well. He said He would never leave me or forsake me. I am not exempt from the issues of life, but I know Someone who will walk with me – and sometimes carry me.

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educAtIon Angela Duncan - Teacher of the Month

Mrs. Angela Duncan is this month’s Teacher of the Month. Angelina County is so blessed to have wonderful women in the teacher pool in schools all across the county! Angela is a kindergarten

teacher in the brand new kindergarten wing at Huntington. She also has a drive and passion for Destination Imagination. Mrs. Duncan is a wonderful example of inspiration and love in the classroom. Thank you for all you do, Mrs. Duncan!

TJM: Tell us about you?AD: I am a born and raised Lufkinite! I thought that I would go to college and find someone to marry from somewhere exotic, or at least out of the county, but that was not the plan! I ended up marrying Billy Jack Duncan , who grew up practically around the corner from me! Together we have 2 special, interesting, and wonderful boys; Brennan, 14 and Barrett, 10. We are members of “Angel of Joy Lutheran Church.” When my oldest son was an infant, he was diagnosed with leukemia and had to have a bone marrow transplant at age 2 1/2. All decisions within my life hinge upon that experience. Life is fragile, precious, and not to be taken for granted. I look at each child I teach with this outlook. I graduated from Lufkin High School in 1987 and then moved on to Angelina College for 2 years, and then graduated from SFA in ‘91. I have great memories from all 3 places! I know that I could gone farther from home, but AC allowed me to really try my wings and perform with AC singers, and have lead roles in about 3 theater productions! Those memories are very special to me and I hope to always have music and theater a part of my life in some way!


TJM: Who influenced you to become a teacher?AD: No one really. It is something that I just prepared for from the very beginning of my school career. I did have teachers that I can still remember their kindness and enthusiasm. I remember Jan Morgan at Slack, and how she let me have a solo in the Christmas musical. Music was always a highlight for me! I remember Darlene Letney, who put up with my insecurities as a middle schooler, (and who, by the way, is now my son’s 8th grade science teacher). And I am thankful to have been taught by “Mrs. Pat” Baldwin at Angelina College! Her love of the theater and her students is still very inspiring!

TJM: What keeps you going as a teacher?AD: Little things happen just about every day that reinforce my decision to teach. Coming back from Thanksgiving and having a child say that they missed me at Thanksgiving.... like I should share a place at the table with them. When I get a hug, or they say “I love you, Mrs. Duncan.” Or, when I see the light come on and they can use their creativity to write a story independently! There are so many warm moments if you pay attention closely enough.

TJM: Tell us about Destination Imagination.AD: I was introduced to DI when my oldest son Brennan started kindergarten. My good friend Bambi Spurgeon discovered the program at a GT conference and brought it back to our district. I loved the excitement that the children get by bringing their ideas to life. I love that DI incorporates all of the different education disciplines and combines them with performance and the arts. Nine years may seem like a long time to be involved with something as time consuming as DI, but to me it is as much a joy as a necessity.

TJM: What do you want people to know about DI?AD: I want everyone to understand that all children can benefit from the skills they develop being involved in DI. I have watched children reach out of their comfort zone and blossom because of the experience. It is not an exclusive event. It is a wonderful way for a child who desperately needs the challenge, as well as the student who has a limited experience base. It fosters creativity, and develops confidence and the ability to think for yourself! Sometimes we get so busy in the classroom and test scores that we forget how important it is to be creative and let children be creative! Creativity doesn’t fit neatly into a box, but can have beautiful results.

TJM: Last words?AD: I think that to sum up my philosophy on education, I would have to say that I value the uniqueness in each child. I want them to leave my classroom with a love for learning and an ability to think outside the box - along with the basics! Every child is somebody’s baby and I want to love them and value them the way that I hope my boys are treated in the classroom!

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BoDYYour


T The American College of Sports and Medicine recommends resistance

strength training three days a week for at least 30 minutes, along with cardiovascular

activities (walking, swimming, treadmills ,etc) four days a week for at least 30 minutes. Start slow and listen to your body. It might be best to start with one set of each exercise at first, then build up to three sets for a full 30 minute workout. Let’s not forget nutrition! Healthy, smart eating choices are also an essential component of maintaining and building a healthy, lean body.

Wide-leg squats: Stand in a wide stance with toes out at an angle. Knees need to stay aligned with your toes, so don’t go out too far. Bend the knees and lower into a squat, keeping knees in line with toes, abs contracted and

back straight - push up to start without locking the knees and repeat. Add weights in hands to increase resistance ( 1 to 3 sets of 8 reps)

Static lunges: Stand in split stance with feet about 3 feet apart. Keeping your torso straight, bend knees and lower body towards the floor without allowing front knee to bend over the toe (you should see the tip of your shoe). Push through the heel to come back up without locking the knees and repeat. Add weights in hands to increase resistance ( 1 to 3 sets of 8 reps)

One-armed row: Hold a weight in the right hand and prop the left hand on the left thigh for support as you bend over (back flat and abs in), hanging the weight

down towards the floor. Squeeze the back to pull the elbow up in a rowing motion until it is level with the torso, lower the weight and repeat. Switch sides. ( 1 to 3 sets of 8 reps )

Lateral raise: Stand with feet hip-width apart, holding dumbbells in front of thighs with the palms facing each other. Keep a slight bend in the elbows to protect the joints and lift the arms out to the sides, just to shoulder level. Lower the weights and repeat. (1 to 3 sets of 8 reps)

Hammer curls: Stand with feet hip-width apart, holding dumbbells with the palms facing in. Squeeze the bicep to curl the weights towards the shoulders, keeping the elbows stationary. Slowly lower the weights, keeping a slight bend in the elbows at the bottom and repeat. (1 to 3 sets of 8 reps)

Tricep extensions: Sit on a chair and hold a dumbbell in both hands (hold on the top of the weight) with arms extended overhead, elbows next to ears, arms straight. Bend elbows and slowly lower weight behind you until elbows are at 90-degrees. Keep the elbows in and right next to

ears--contract the back of the arms to extend the arms overhead again and repeat. (1 to 3 sets of 8 reps)

Seated rotation for abs: Sit with good posture holding a dumbbell in front of chest. Keeping the abs contracted, rotate the torso to the right while keeping the hips and legs facing forward. Contract abs to bring the weight back to center and then rotate to the left and repeat. (1 to 3 sets of 8 reps)

Push-ups on the knees: On all fours with hands a bit wider than the shoulders, walk the knees back a bit in order to lean your weight on the hands and flatten the back from the head down to the back of the knees. Pull the abs in and, keeping back

straight, bend the elbows and lower body towards the floor until elbows are at 90-degree angles. Push back up and repeat (1 set of 12)

Superhumans: Begin on hands and knees with the back straight and the abs pulled in. Lift the right arm up until it is level with the body and, at the same time, lift the left leg up and straighten it until it is parallel to the floor. Hold the pose for 15 seconds and repeat on the other side. Take your time…this exercise will challenge your balance! (Build up to 30 seconds on each side)

Get fit will be offering a Free One Hour “Resistance Strength Training Workshop” session on Wednesday, March 3rd, at 5:30 pm at the WHMC Affinity Center on 302 Medical Park Drive. For more information contact Connie Reeves, CPT at [email protected] or 936/674-7775

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fItness 101Beginners “30 Minute Power Pump” - By Connie Reeves, CPT

/ Your BoDY

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Cwomen’s heAlthWomen and Cardiovascular Diseases

Cardiovascular disease, which includes heart disease, hypertension and stroke, is

just a man’s disease, right? Wrong!

The number one killer of women in the United States, and one that more than half a million women die from annually is cardiovascular disease. Often referred to as heart disease, cardiovascular disease is more encompassing term that describes a variety of problems affecting the heart and circulatory system. The four most common types of cardiovascular disease are heart disease (which includes heart attack), stroke, high blood pressure, and heart failure. In all, cardiovascular disease includes more than 60 disorders, affects over 70 million Americans, and accounts for nearly 40 percent of deaths each year.

Most people are surprised to learn that heart attacks are twice as deadly in women as in men. Thirty-eight percent of female heart attack victims will die within one year of the attack. Experts speculate that higher mortality rates among women may be because women are less likely to seek or receive treatment early. Studies suggest that, on the average, women take 2-4 hours longer than men to respond to heart attack symptoms. This delay in receiving care can impact survivability because some newer treatments work best within the first hour after onset of pain or discomfort.

Historically, women have not been involved in as many heart disease research studies as men. Until recently, not much was known about prevention and treatment specifically for women. Researchers, however, have now discovered that men and women respond differently to heart disease treatments and medications. Though women are often more ill than men after a heart attack, they are less likely to receive aggressive

clot-busting treatment. Also, following a heart attack, women are half as likely as men to undergo cardiac rehabilitation.

As with breast cancer, prevention and early detection are the best strategies to identify problems early when they are most treatable. Annual preventative care should include screenings for cardiovascular diseases. In addition, making healthy choices can help minimize your risk. The American Heart Association recommends five strategies that women should follow to help prevent cardiovascular disease: 1. Don’t smoke: Not smoking is the best way to prevent heart disease. In the United States, 30 percent of heart disease deaths are related to smoking. 2. Exercise: The risk for cardiovascular disease decreases 30 to 50 percent when one is active. On average, a person should strive for 30 to 60 minutes of exercise most days of the week. Women can gauge their activity level by using a pedometer and tracking their steps. A person should log 10,000 steps a day, which translates

into five miles. Women often struggle with finding time to go to the gym, but exercising by walking on a treadmill or taking the stairs instead of the elevator can be just as beneficial. 3. Eat a heart-healthy diet: Eating five to ten servings a day of fruits, vegetables, grains and legumes all contribute to cardiovascular disease prevention. Limit saturated fat, which is found in beef, butter, cheese, milk, coconut and palm oil.4. Maintain a healthy weight: Excess weight can lead to high blood pressure, high cholesterol and diabetes – all of which can lead to heart disease. 5. Regular check-ups: Women should get their blood pressure checked and have a lipids test regularly. A lipids test measures the level of cholesterol and triglycerides (fatty acids) in the blood.

Understanding your risks and maintaining a heart healthy lifestyle is the best way to prevent cardiovascular disease. For more information on annual screenings, talk with your family physician. If you don’t have a regular doctor, call 699-CARE for a physician referral.

Also, please join Woodland Height’s Healthy Woman members for a Wine and Dark Chocolate event on February 17, 2010, at 6 pm. Dr. Bachireddy, Cardiologist, will discuss Woman and Heart Disease: Understanding Risk and Prevention. This event is free to the public, but space is limited. Call 699-CARE to register.

By: Ravinder Bachireddy, MD, Cardiologist


L

Mesh Skort by Old NavyThe skort is perfect for the tennis court, workout, or running a quick errand.

Harem PantInspired by eastern flare, these pants were designed for yoga enthusiasts. But, the designers know it is a pant that will be worn outside of class at the park, picking up kids, anywhere comfort is required! Available at Athleta.com

Compression ClothingA new addition to the market is more compression wear. Compression items

offer to wick away sweat from your body and keep you as dry as possible.

Yellowman TankYellowman has partnered with Athleta to offer you the same artistic elements on fitness wear. This tank is a fitted style with wicking fabric. The tattoo pattern adds detail so it is able to cross over as a stylish tank when you’re done with your w o r k o u t . Available at Athleta.com

Hitch Skirt CapriOne of the best fashion designs this season! This offers you the flexibility to go for a run, workout, and then pick

up lunch. The skirt Capri is a two in one piece that is very breathable. Available only on athleta.com

/ Your LIFe

fAshIonWork Out

Long gone are the days of putting on a scrungy t-shirt and a pair of old shorts when you headed to the gym. Today, designers and retail outlets have

embraced the market for fitness fashion. There are so many women with different lifestyles, whether it is a working woman working out during lunch, a stay at home

mom running right before she meets friends for lunch, or yoga enthusiasts—and there is fashionable clothing for all the above. Here are some of the newest designs and FASHIONS FOR 2010.

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S Sluggish all the time? Having breakouts? Feeling joint pain? Experiencing digestive

problems? Straying from your healthy eating habits lately? Want to jump start your weight loss

program?

You may consider a Detox program.

From the junk food and preservatives we eat to the chemicals we use to clean our homes and bodies, to our own body’s physiology, we are exposed to different impurities that can compromise our best health. In one day you may ingest excessive caffeine, cigarette smoke, refined sugars, saturated fats. You may encounter a host of petrochemicals at your home, office and outdoor parks. You may use soaps and shampoos with high levels of toxins. You may create excess hormones due to high stress. In fact, if you could peek inside your body you would find fire-retardant chemicals, heavy metals, pesticides, plastic particles, and dozens of other residues of modern life.

The human body has an amazing natural detoxification system that can eliminate and neutralize toxins through the liver, colon, kidneys, intestines, lungs, lymph and skin. However, when this system is compromised, impurities are not properly filtered and every cell in the body could be adversely affected. Chemicals that cannot be detoxified get stored in your liver, bones, fat and other tissues.

Symptoms such as unexplained fatigue, accelerated aging, sluggish elimination, irritated skin, allergies or low-grade infections; bags under the eyes; a distended stomach even if the rest of your body is thin; menstrual difficulties; or mental confusion may mean you would benefit from detoxing.

A detoxification program is basically cleansing the blood. Although easier said than done, it is critical to your health to cut out the impurities you know are doing you harm.

There are marketed and natural pathways to detoxing products that can help make you feel lighter and

jump start a weight loss program. Many last for seven days. This is recommended because it takes the body some time to cleanse the blood. Only use products with a trusted reputation for quality, and look for milk thistle, buckthorn, and other herbs known to encourage gentle elimination and soothe irritation of the intestines.

Arbonne International provides a 7-Day Body Cleanse that relies on marine botanicals which provide minerals and antioxidant support, protecting cells from the harmful effects of free radicals. The system also has an herbal complex designed to cleanse and strengthen the natural elimination systems of your body.

The medical profession ranges in its recommendations for using Detox programs. Many recognize the health benefits of a “spring cleaning” to the point of recommending regular monthly or quarterly detoxification, while some point to the difficulty measuring results from systems designed to cleanse. It is clear that detoxing is not right for everyone, especially nursing mothers, children, patients with chronic degenerative diseases, cancer, tuberculosis, or patients on medications that need to accumulate in your system to be effective. If you are being treated for a medical condition, you should consult with your physician before beginning a detoxification program.

Emily Goodwin has been an Arbonne Independent Consultant for over three years. She is proud to represent a Health and Wellness company that focuses on creating products that are Pure, Safe and Beneficial and control stress levels. Your body releases hormones in response to stress that in high doses, can create toxins and slow down detoxification enzymes in the liver. There are a number of ways to release stress from exercise to quiet time.

BeAutyDo You Need Detox? - By Emily Goodwin


Weight loss surgery helped Brenda

regain her health ... and her smile.

SM

Choose Well.

Obesity was robbing Brenda McMullen of her health. Fortunately she found a hospital that had the vision to establish an advanced Bariatric Center. The Bariatric Center at Woodland Heights can help you find hope and discover a whole new – and healthier – you.

Join Darry Meyer, D.O., and Greg DeArmond, M.D., for a FREE informational seminar to discuss the LAP-BAND® procedure. Surgical weight loss is not for everyone, but if you are 100 pounds or more overweight, it may be right for you. Call 936-634-0568 today for a reservation.

Monday, March 1, 6 p.m.WHMC Second Floor Classroom

Seating is limited, so register today. Feel free to bring a guest or support person.

46781_WHMC_Bari_8_375x10_875c.indd 1 2/1/10 3:35 PM

E Every year as the ball drops and a new year begins, millions of Americans

promise themselves they are going to lead healthy lives and lose weight. For

Carol Cassidy, a Lufkin resident, the desire to shed excess pounds was there, but her diets and exercise didn’t produce results. “At 253 pounds, I was severely overweight,” said Cassidy. “I tried diets and exercise, but nothing seemed to work. I was unhappy, had very low self-esteem, and my diabetes and blood pressure were out of control.”

Unfortunately, Carol’s story is not unique. According to the Centers for Disease Control (CDC), over 67 percent of American adults are either overweight or obese. And, being overweight or obese can increase your risk of having major health problems as well as significantly impact quality of life.“I couldn’t do simple tasks – like walking up and down stairs – without being completely out of breath,” said Cassidy. “I huffed and puffed all the time. It took me two or three days to clean my house.”

While diet and exercise are the best way to lose weight, many adults – like Carol – have tried and still can’t shed the excess pounds. For these individuals, bariatric surgery might be an option. Bariatric surgery refers to surgical procedures

used to shrink the size of the stomach, which limits the amount of food the patient can eat.

“After attending a seminar hosted by Angelina Surgical Associates, I decided to try LAP BAND surgery,”

explained Cassidy. “Now, my current weight is 183 pounds. I can clean my house in 3 or 4 hours and shop all day.”

The least invasive bariatric surgery technique is gastric banding, which is commonly called LAP BAND surgery. During this procedure, a silicon band is placed around the upper part of the stomach and saline injections are used to adjust the tightness of the band. Shrinking the stomach helps patients feel fuller quicker and with less food. Unlike other surgical procedures for obesity, LAP BAND surgery does not result in permanent changes to your stomach or your intestines. This means, if medically necessary, the band can be removed.

“There are many different factors your doctor will consider before recommending LAP BAND surgery,” said Dr. Darry Meyer, Board Certified Bariatric Surgeon. “LAP BAND surgery is only for people with severe obesity who have already made serious attempts to lose weight.” Clinically, being overweight or obese is defined as having a body mass index (BMI) above a certain healthy range. A mathematical ratio of weight to height, BMI is a good indicator of potential health risks associated with being overweight. Morbid obesity, however, is defined as being 100 pounds or more above your ideal body weight or having a BMI of 40 or greater. Bariatric surgery is an option for people who are morbidly obese and cannot lose weight by traditional means.

“LAP BAND surgery is part of a comprehensive approach to weight loss that includes lifestyle modification, diet and exercise,”explained Dr. Gregory DeArmond, Board Certified Bariatric Surgeon. “This surgery does make you feel fuller with less food, but it doesn’t eliminate the desire to eat. In addition, this is not a cosmetic procedure and is intended to help people who are

severely overweight to improve their quality of life and reduce the risk of certain diseases.”

“In addition to diet, I now exercise and walk four days a week,” explained Cassidy. “My husband loves it too because he sees how successful this has been and he really encourages me.”

If you are considering weight loss surgery, speak with a qualified physician about your risks, potential benefits and expectations. For more information on LAP BAND surgery, attend a free informational seminar on Monday, March 1, 2010, at Woodland Heights Medical Center. The seminar will be conducted by the Bariatric Surgery Center at Angelina Surgical Associates and will begin at 6 pm. This seminar is free to the public, but space is limited. Please call (936) 634-0568 for more information or to reserve your seat.

lAp BAnd surgeryOne Woman’s Story

tjmag.com / 59

Weight loss surgery helped Brenda

regain her health ... and her smile.

SM

Choose Well.

Obesity was robbing Brenda McMullen of her health. Fortunately she found a hospital that had the vision to establish an advanced Bariatric Center. The Bariatric Center at Woodland Heights can help you find hope and discover a whole new – and healthier – you.

Join Darry Meyer, D.O., and Greg DeArmond, M.D., for a FREE informational seminar to discuss the LAP-BAND® procedure. Surgical weight loss is not for everyone, but if you are 100 pounds or more overweight, it may be right for you. Call 936-634-0568 today for a reservation.

Monday, March 1, 6 p.m.WHMC Second Floor Classroom

Seating is limited, so register today. Feel free to bring a guest or support person.

46781_WHMC_Bari_8_375x10_875c.indd 1 2/1/10 3:35 PM

tjmag.com / 61

PhotograPh taken by lisa crow

CHILDYour


Ask the docyour child’s tonsils | by dr. gregory hyde

For parents, their child’s tonsils can be on one end of the spectrum or the either; tonsils either reek havoc on your child’s health or tonsils are only read about in a storybook. There are many aspects that tonsils can have on child’s well being. Years ago, tonsillectomies were a very common practice for adolescent children. However, that has changed in recent years. Dr. Gregory Hyde, specializing in Otolaryngology, Head, & Neck Surgery and Otolaryngic Allergies, gives us more information about your child’s tonsils.

The role tonsils play in the body.The tonsils and adenoids are modified lymph nodes, part of the immune system. They play a role in monitoring environmental elements coming into the body through the nose and mouth. By design, they have clefts and pockets in the tissue to collect foreign material so that it can be presented to the developing immune system. This allows the developing immune system to determine what is foreign to it. This process likely is completed after the first few months of life. After that time, the pockets and clefts can trap food particles and bacteria, causing chronic infection. The chronic inflammation and stimulation to the immune system that results causes the tonsils and/or adenoids to enlarge. This can lead to problems with frequent acute infections, airway obstruction, snoring, mouth breathing, sleep disorders, problems with swallowing and speech, frequent ear infections, and sinusitis. Long term problems can result in improper development of the bones of the face resulting in malocclusion of the teeth and permanent narrowing of the airway.

Flags to signal tonsils are a problem for your childThe first recommendation for considering tonsillectomy for infection is three or more bouts of tonsillitis in a year.

If the tonsils and adenoids are enlarged, but not infected, documented problems with facial growth,

malocclusion of the teeth with development of a crossbite (upper teeth closing inside the lower teeth) and a high arched palate is another indication for surgery.

Periodic fevers and failure to thrive are additional reasons to consider a tonsillectomy and adenoidectomy. The airway problems caused by enlarged tonsils and adenoids can disrupt normal sleep stages. During the deepest stage of sleep, known as delta sleep, growth hormone is secreted by the brain. Fifty percent of more of a child’s sleep pattern is usually delta sleep. Airway obstruction can keep people from reaching delta sleep and result in growth hormone deficiencies. Studies have shown that there is a significant growth spurt which usually occurs for about 6 months after enlarged tonsils and adenoids are removed in children.

Sleep apnea and sleep disordered breathing (SDB) are additional indications to remove enlarged tonsils and adenoids. Loud snoring, mouth breathing, frequent nightmares, sleep talking and walking, frequent awakenings during the night, excessive daytime sleepiness and bed wetting are all symptoms of SDB. These symptoms can persist on into adulthood. If untreated, problems with depression, headaches, obesity, heart disease, high blood pressure, and increased risk of stroke and dementia will result.

There are other additional problems associated with enlarged tonsils and adenoids such as problems with speech development and diction, difficulties swallowing or dysphagia, chronic gastric reflux, frequent ear infections, sinusitis, ADD and ADHD.

Window of opportunity If there are problems with facial and dental growth and development related to chronic airway obstruction and mouth breathing, the sooner the problem is corrected, the better. Waiting until adolescent years, when most of the facial growth and development is complete, will usually require extensive orthodontia and even oral surgery for correction. Early correction, while the face and skull are still growing, can allow growth patterns to “catch up” and lessen the need for additional corrective measures.

Risks and Benefits. One of the main risks of tonsillectomy has been bleeding after the surgery. Tonsillectomy techniques that use high temperature thermal energy like electrocautery or lasers to control bleeding during the procedure result in burned tissue being left behind in the bed of the wound. The burnt tissue goes on to die and slough off 7-10 days after the surgery. This will frequently open up a new wound with active bleeding that can be life threatening. I prefer to use a low temperature technique called “plasma coblation”. Ionized plasma is generated in a drop of salt water which causes the molecules of the tonsils and adenoids to fly apart and disintegrate. The process works at about 40-50 degrees centigrade (about half of boiling temperature compared to 400-700 centigrade for electrocautery and lasers). There

/ Your CHILD

Do you have a topic you would like to learn more about regarding children’s health? Send us your questions and ideas and we will find a local professional to answer your questions. Email us at [email protected].

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is no burn left on the remaining tissues. Consequently, there is much less pain after surgery, more rapid healing and return to normal diet and activity, and much less risk of bleeding. In the nearly six years I have been using plasma coblation, post-operative bleeding has been almost non-existent.

The benefits of tonsillectomy are avoidance of the long-term problems. Some people are concerned about “loss of immune function” when the tonsils are removed. There have been prospective studies with thousands of patients which have shown no negative immunological effects from the removal of tonsils and/or adenoids. The studies have shown that most individuals are actually healthier with fewer sick days, etc.

What to expect. Most pediatric parents make comments like, “they are a completely different child” or “why didn’t we do this sooner”. Two weeks after the surgery, you can already tell they look healthier. Their complexion is not as pale, the dark circles are fading from under their eyes, and they usually appear more calm, rested, and happy.

Why the change.Opinions cycle throughout society. The same is true in medicine. When I was growing up, nearly 50 years ago, there were very few antibiotics and tonsillectomies were very common. I had one. It was one of the worst experiences of my childhood. The anesthetic techniques were primitive and risky. With the development of modern antibiotics, fewer tonsillectomies were done. However, now that we have multi-drug resistant bacteria, safer anesthetic techniques, and the recognition of the role enlarged tonsils play in sleep apnea and behavioral disorders, the pendulum may shift back to more tonsillectomies. Also the development of technologies like plasma-coblation which reduce the risks of bleeding and pain have allowed me to offer this procedure to my patients with confidence that it won’t be one of their worst medical experiences.

For More information, contact Dr. Gregory E. Hyde by calling 936-560-2600 or at his office 1018 N. Mound St, Ste 103, Nacogdoches.


child’s plAyemma grace & laKe van norman

Lake Van Norman has a cowboy room to grow in. He is only two, but his mom had his big boy room in mind when designing the nursery. Kasey Van Norman says, “I just made it where he could easily transition from baby to boy! Painting stripes on a wall is no easy task, but I think it totally gives the room character!”

Emma Grace loves her vintage chic room. At 4 years old, Emma Grace is a girly girl and her room definitely reflects that. “I went with a ‘vintage’ theme for her room,” said Kasey, “I shopped flea markets & garage sales to decorate her room with old plates, old dresses, etc. I used an old lampshade to make the faux chandelier above her bed.”

/ Your CHILD

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Kasey chose to paint the walls with a small 5 inch shelf that separates the paint colors 3/4 the way up the wall. Using the green allowed her to make the girly pink ‘POP!’ In the bathroom, she hot glued daisies all over one wall! She says, “SO FUN having a girl!”

These two rooms have so much color and creativity!


/ Yo u r C h i l D

kids konnectwhat is your favorite healthy meal?

Lauren BashamAge 8Lufkin, “My favorite is roasted chicken and fruit salad”

Ethan BashamAge 2Lufkin“Chocolate!”

CarsonAge 5Lufkin “I like apples, but they have to be the red ones”

Nathan PattersonNacogdoches“Baked Salmon”

Avery Neal Huntington“Sandwiches”

Chloe MitchellHuntington“Ice Cream”

Does your child have a craft, hobby, or interest that they would like to share with other kids their age? Tell us about it by emailing us at [email protected]. Your child might be featured in a future issue of The Journey!

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treAts And eAtsCupid’s day calls for yummy desserts that say “you’re special” at first sight and first bite! With a few easy techniques, four year-round favorites — butter cookies, fruit-filled chocolate shells, brownies and cupcakes — become delicious and doable Valentine treats.

For additional ideas for Valentine’s celebrations, or to order baking and decorating supplies, visit www.wilton.com.

love at first bite

Got A crush on you cupcAkesMakes 24 cupcakes Bake cupcakes — any favorite flavor — in colorful Valentine-inspired baking cups. Ice with white decorator icing and top with red and pink sugar-coated heart-shaped cookies (or icing decorations) for a flirty finish. Sugar Cookie Dough (1/2 of the prepared dough) Red and Pink Colored Sugars 1 can (16 ounces) White Decorator Icing 1 package (18.25 ounces) yellow or other favorite flavor cake mix Water, oil and eggs to prepare mix

Preheat oven to 400°F. On lightly floured surface, roll cookie dough into a circle about 12 inches in diameter and 1/8 inch thick. Using nesting heart cookie cutters, cut 2 sizes small hearts, dipping cutter in flour before each use; sprinkle with colored sugars. Bake cookies on ungreased cookie sheet 6 to 7 minutes or until cookies are lightly browned. Cool cookies completely. Layer small and large cookies with icing between.

Reduce oven temperature to 350°F. Place Sweetheart Bandana baking cups in standard muffin pan. Prepare cake mix following package directions. Fill cups 2/3 full; bake 17 to 19 minutes or until toothpick inserted in center comes out clean. Cool cupcakes completely. Ice cooled cupcakes with icing; insert cookies, mounding additional icing if necessary.

Convenience Tip: Substitute Hearts Remembered Icing Decorations for cookies to top cupcakes.

VAlentine Brownie pointsMakes about 6 browniesBrownie hearts, dressed in pink and white swirls and love notes, definitely score points with cupid. Cut a pan of brownies into heart shapes with a cookie cutter, then cover with decadent fudge icing. Use cookie icing to add messages, swirls and other decorative touches.

1 package (about 20 ounces) brownie mix (13 x 9-inch size) Water, oil and eggs to make mix 1 can (16 ounces) Brownie Fudge Icing Pink and White Cookie Icing Heart-shaped chocolate candy (optional)

Bake brownies in baking pan following package directions. Cool completely.

Using Comfort Grip Heart Cutter, cut shapes from cooled brownie; ice with Fudge Icing. Heat Cookie Icing following package instructions; add message, outlines, swirls and other decorations to top of brownie hearts. If desired, add candy.

Step-by-step tips: http://www.bakedecoratecelebrate.com/techniques/printwriting.cfm


/ Yo u r C h i l D

fAmily supportquestions for counselors

Question: I feel like my family is going in a million different directions. I know part of it is because of the stage we are in with our kids having soccer, dance, homework, etc...What is the best way to achieve balance and know when our lives are too busy? We have three active children--when we are doing too much?

Answer:You’ve heard the saying, “Put your money where your mouth is”? Well, what about, “Put your time where your values are”? If you actually added the time each member spends each day on their various activities, would your family’s actions show your actual values? This sounds a little harsh, and, of course sleep & work (school for the kids) will be two of the larger areas of time spent, but what about the rest of our waking hours? Are they spent on TV, computer, cell phones, sports, spiritual, etc.? Each is important in a full, well rounded life, but where is there time to fit in the importance of each other? *(Society has developed into a place where so much is available so easily, perhaps too easily. And it’s easy to get distracted from our core values.)*

Perhaps you’ve heard of filling a bucket with rocks, then pebbles, then sand? Most of us see that more CAN be fit in. But if we placed the sand in first, would there be room for the rocks? And what if the rocks represent our core values? So, my suggestion is to prioritize. Have a good discussion with your spouse about what you want to teach your children, and leave time for the ongoing need for nurturing your spouse! Bottom line? Often in therapy a teen with “depression” or a couple with “marriage problems” comes in for help. Guess what the real issue is? The sand got in before the rocks, or “things” got in the way of connecting and the ongoing need to nurture our relationships. So, my advice is to place the important things in first: schedule daily time to connect as a family around the dinner table, schedule weekly family fun nights, and schedule weekly date nights. Then if there’s time left over, take the kids to soccer, but let those activities be the sand.

Donna Martinez, LPC

Would you like a professional opinion about one of your questions? Send your questions to [email protected]

/ Your CHILD

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why i loVe BeinG A momby sandi hunter

There are so many reasons why I love being a mom. Let me count the ways. But then I started really thinking about my journey to motherhood….. and I’m going to take you waaaaaay back! I remember sitting in the school cafeteria with my girl friends in the late 70’s and early 80’s. Yes, I do mean big hair and light blue and green eye shadow! I was all about it! We would talk about how we wished our life would be as we entered adulthood and marriage. My goal was to be married by the time I was 22, have two kids by the time I was 28, the house, and the white picket fence. Well, being that I made a couple of bad boyfriend choices and one bad husband choice, my best laid plans were delayed a bit. The delays were worth it, though.

I firmly believe that God gives us “trials” so that we appreciate the “gifts” he has in store us. I did finally meet the man of my dreams--I married my husband Brad when I was 28. As you can see, my time line is off just a smidge.

Life in was going great! We both had good jobs. We were DINKS. (Dual Income No Kids) And guess what!? We had decided we were not going to have kids. Why?! We were foot loose and fancy free.

Then we thought maybe we should rethink this baby thing. So we did, and almost as quickly as we had decided, we were pregnant! After a routine doctor’s visit and an ultrasound, there was no heart beat--and in an instant, our short-lived dreams of being parents was gone. I was pregnant one minute and I wasn’t the next. I remember asking God how he could let this happen. It wasn’t long before we were pregnant again.

Somewhere in there, I had a routine blood test called the Tri-test. We were in for my weekly check up when the doctor came in and told us that the Tri-test had come back abnormal. He said there was a possibility that our baby could have Downs Syndrome. We would have to have an ultra sound to shed some light and there were markers that they would check to give some indication

as to what the situation was. The ultra sound results were not as conclusive as they would have hoped for them to be, so we had an amniocentesis, which would give us conclusive results. Now, let me say this, it would not have mattered what those test results were. This baby was a gift from God! But I had to know! Finally, we found out things were clear. We were having a

healthy baby boy!

Remember those trials God put us through. They make his “gifts” to us so much sweeter!

But now, to the real objective of this story. I said all that to say that the thing I love most about being a Mom is probably that it is the closest we come to know how God feels about us. His love is unconditional. As mamas, we know the love for our babies is unconditional. We would do anything for them.

I treasure the sound of his voice calling me Mommy. We have this thing we do called “Late Nights.” Skyler and I are night owls, Brad is not. So we stay up late, watch TV sit in the middle of our pantry on stools and decide which snacks we want to eat. I love it when he says, “Let’s have a late night.” I love it when he asks me to come “snug” with him. I love our nightly routine of saying “good night”. “I love you mommy, I love

you Skyler, LOU, LOU, (short for “love you”) BKITW (Best kid in the world) BMITW (Best mom in the world) See ya mañana!”

I can’t wait to experience all the adventures that motherhood has in store for me in the future. If you’ve done the math, my ideal plan for life didn’t go exactly as I had planned (I was 34 when I had Skyler), but I wouldn’t change one single thing. I married the man of my dreams who I call “my white picket fence”, and I have the BKITW.

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the revIewyoplait fRuit smoothiesToo busy to grab a snack or eat breakfast? Yoplait had you in mind with this new frozen smoothie. This is a great way to get your fruit intake and enjoy a healthy snack. All you do is add milk and blend! You can find these delicious products in the frozen juice section at all your Brookshire Brother locations.

acai beRRySmoothie King has more than just smoothies to provide! They offer a full line of supplements, vitamins, and healthy snack alternatives. The Acai Berry is “the” super fruit of the year. We all know about eating our daily fruits and vegetables, but Acai Berry offers more than the norm. This formula is a cleanse and flush system that provides digestive tract cleansing, weight loss, less bloating, and possibly even a flatter abdomen. Visit your local Smoothie King in the Southloop Crossing next to Old Navy.

wii fit plusGaming Systems are not just for the kids anymore! With Wii Fit, you will either be competing for control over the system with your children or you will get them excited and have them join you in a few great minutes of heart pumping exercise. Whether you are trying to work a certain part of your body or just looking to tone your overall physique, there is a specific regimen of activities just for you. Everyone has different fitness needs, and with My Wii Fit Plus, every experience with Wii Fit Plus can be unique, too! Go to the website to find out more! www.wiifit.com

the lean body woRkoutFrom the popular fitness magazine Women’s Health comes The Lean Body Workout. The package offers a training program and the tools needed for a leaner body. The equipment provided is a stability ball, resistance tubes, a weighted ball, and a jump rope. There is a step by step guide that gives you the exercises to perform with the equipment. This will give you no reason to not exercise, as you have something at home to get your heart rate pumping! Available now at Academy Sports + Outdoors.


Parting Advice:

As an Aesthetician, I am biased in saying that distressing with facials and massage are vital for a long life!! Strong spiritual beliefs and family connections along with going to Curves have kept me on track. I realized when falling on the ice a while back, resistance training and calcium have

kept my bones strong! Bike riding with my son on a sunny day has added a freer, more fun element to exercise. For the New Year.... keep on moving!

Caroline HurstNacogdoches

What I enjoy doing most for my health is taking a few minutes each day to find a quiet spot, clear my mind of my “to do “ list and just breathe. It gives me that little taste of peace that I need each day to help me find balance in my hectic life. If that quiet spot happens to be a bathtub filled with bubbles with candles all around and soothing music, even better!

Melanie RichmondNacogdoches

Since I love to eat and I hate to exercise, the thing I enjoy the most that I do for my health is getting a massage as often as I can. It is relaxing and

helps me relieve a lot of stress that my body carries around. I feel more relaxed and my body feels so much better after I gotten a massage--it takes away my aches and pains so I can keep on going.

Dr. Kimberly ProcellNacogdoches

I don’t exercise like I should, but I do try to eat right. (at least most of the time).

Dr. Melanie Rushing-SaldanaLufkin

What is one thing you enjoy doing most for your health?

The Journey - February

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