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4 • THE JOURNEY • MAY2013

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his issue is another great first for us. We are excited to salute the men and women who do so much for our community.

Some of my favorite memories were my first years of marriage when Clay was a police officer. It was quite entertaining, a definite learning experience, and a new found appreciation for civil service that will never leave me. I often see and hear comments about police officers being jerks. And just like anyone else in this world, no one is perfect; they, too, make mistakes. However, their 8 to 5 job, 6pm-6am shift, or Midnight to 10am shift, is them putting their life on the line. Every time they put on their badge, they have no idea what could happen

during that shift. They deal with the things the everyday people do not want to deal with, which in turn, keep us safe at night.

One very poignant memory is when we lost our dear friend. He was literally Clay's partner in crime. Whether they were pulling a prank on their Lieutenant or chasing down a criminal, those two were always in it together. Trey Hutchison transferred from the Lufkin Police Department to the Bossier City Police Department. Trey was responding to a 911 hang up call. His call of duty was to put on his badge; his duty was to respond to that call. He took on a duty from which he would never return back home. Trey's life was cut way too short. Like I said, civil service men and women will always have an appreciation like no other from our family. My kids know who heroes really are, not Spiderman or Batman. They are the ones that put on their badges for us every single day and night.

In the world we live in today, with all the crazy crime and radicals that we are seeing more and more of on the evening news, there is a new found appreciation for those who have accepted the call of duty: police officers, fire-fighters, EMT, or military personnel.

I think whenever you see these men and women in the grocery store, on the street, or doing their job—‘thank you’ can never be said enough. Not only to them, but also their family and loved ones who support what they do!

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Stephanie oliverpresident

YOUR HOMEHome Tour: A Bald Hill RetreatDecor & Design: Boxes of LoveIn the Kitchen: Firehouse MealYour Pantry: May is Party Time

YOUR COMMUNITYCommunity Leader: Beverly Baker Calendar: Upcoming EventsInspiring Woman: Stefani Willmon

YOUR LIFESomething Abundant: A Heroic Legacy of FaithRelationships: Called to ServiceFashion: Spring 2013 TrendsWomen's Health: Poetry with a Purpose

YOUR CHILDPretty BabiesParent Thoughts: Teaching Our Children to Honor HeroesLook at MeBirthday Bash: Girls Just Want to Have Fun!

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CONTACT US:Mailing: PO Box 150537 | Lufkin, Texas 75915

Physical: 115 E. Shepherd | Lufkin, Texas 75901936-634-7188 | advertise@tjmag.com

facebook.com/tjmag twitter.com/tjmeast

president: Stephanie Oliver managing editor: Beth Johnson | editor@tjmag.com director of sales: Kim Iribarren | kim@tjmag.com administrative assistant: Coran Fuqua | office@tjmag.com layout and design: Macy Haffey

event photographer: Lisa Crow | lisacrowphotography@gmail.com event photographer: Morgan Due | www.morgandue.comcontributors: Jessica Tinsley Bridges, Kelly Finnerud, Coran Fuqua, Kathryn Greene,Amy McLeod, Angie Nichols distribution: Lisa Crow, Janet Glover, Jarod Thompson

Cover Photo byMorgan Due

MAY

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Retail Boutique, Parties & Makeovers105 Miles Way, Ste 300 • Lufkin

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YOUR HOME14 home tour • 16 decor & design • 18 in the kitchen • 20 your pantry

Thank you, R obert and Connie!

At Home Design Construction, we offer complete homebuilding and remodeling services. Whether you arelooking to build or to remodel, give us a call. We can doyour complete project from drafting to completion.

SOME OF OUR SERVICES INCLUDE:3-D computer drafting, new construction, green building,room additions, remodeling, kitchen makeovers, bathroommakeovers, wood f looring, tile, stone, painting and roofing

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Thank you, R obert and Connie!

At Home Design Construction, we offer complete homebuilding and remodeling services. Whether you arelooking to build or to remodel, give us a call. We can doyour complete project from drafting to completion.

SOME OF OUR SERVICES INCLUDE:3-D computer drafting, new construction, green building,room additions, remodeling, kitchen makeovers, bathroommakeovers, wood f looring, tile, stone, painting and roofing

“Helping You Build Your Dream”

HOME DESIGNCONSTRUCTION

FEATURED SUPPLIERS

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Tyler, Texas

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A Bald Hill Retreathis beautifully secluded homestead of Connie and Robert is located in Bald Hill. They have recently built

their dream home on 13 acres. The custom 3 bedroom, 3 bath home is 3600 square feet. The feel of the home is a beautiful retreat because of the serenity of the woods and being in the middle of 13 private acres. The open concept of the home with large open windows and large kitchen adds to that retreat feel; everyone can feel connected whether inside or out.

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BOXES OF LOVE

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Coran Fuqua was born and raised in Lufkin. In 2009 she married a U.S. Marine and spent the next 3 years living in the Mojave Desert of California on a Marine Corps base. She says given the opportunity, she would go back in California in a heartbeat. She has a passion for crafting, design, all things Military (especially Marine Corps), and shopping on a budget! Coran and her husband, Randell, currently reside in Lufkin with their fur-child, Cooper.

remember the day like it was yesterday. In October of 2009, I watched as my husband of barely 3 months checked out his rifle, got on a bus, and headed to Afghanistan to war. It was in the first few weeks of our first deployment I discovered the art of care packaging. I knew my husband was doing his job, what he was

trained to do. But what was I to do? How could I help? I quickly learned what he needed. He needed love, support, and a taste of home, in the form of a box. Now, almost 4 years and 2 tours in Afghanistan later, I still love sending care packages to our friends who are still serving. Want to send boxes of your own but not sure where to start or what to do? Consider this your care package survival guide!

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Beef JerkyGum Raman NoodlesVienna Sausages / spamLittle Debbie SnacksDrink Mixes (water bottle sized)Chips (single serve size)

Candy small bottled juices / sport drinksBoot Socks and UnderwearTravel size toiletriesProtein Bars Sunscreen and Lip BalmIndividual packs of Tylenol / Asprin

Card GamesShort Devotionals / BooksTuna Packets with CrackersLetters, Magazines, news clippings, picturesBaby Wipes Multivitamins

What can I send? Try some of these tried and true Battlefield Favorites:

How do I send it?The United States Postal Service has a great program with their Flat Rate Boxes. Their largest size flat rate box will ship for around $14.00, regardless of weight! Once you have your box, you will need to fill out a customs form. First time filling one out? No problem, ask your mail clerk and they will assist you. UPS and FedEx will not ship to FPO/AP addresses.

I want to send packages, but I don’t know anyone currently serving. No problem! There is a chain of websites called AnyMarine/AnySol-dier/AnyAirman, etc. that have lists of service men and women registered to receive mail. Fill out a short form and you will be emailed a name and address of a service member currently deployed. It’s that simple! There is also a care package ministry at Denman Avenue Baptist Church in Lufkin. Each month they try and send anywhere from 15-20 boxes to assorted troops overseas. This ministry is run strictly on donations. Email kevin@dabconline.org for more information on how you can help.

Care Package DO’s:• DO take the time to decorate your box! It is fun, and the guys enjoy it! Make it a theme box! Holidays, seasons, sports teams, etc. Decorate it in that theme and fill it with corresponding goodies! • DO stuff that box as full as possible! If you're using a Flat Rate Box, you can ship up to 70 Lbs for one flat price! • DO seal the box properly! These boxes travel the world before they make their final destination. Plain packing tape doesn’t always cut it. Duct tape works wonders! • DO color code your boxes! Use duct tape to seal your boxes? Use the same color every time! It helps them pick out their boxes at mail call! (I ALWAYS used hot pink, he could always pick out my boxes and get to his mail faster than everyone else!) • DO send enough to share! There are so many of our service members who don’t have the love and support from family back home. Send enough to go around, no one should be left out! • DO put anything that might melt/bust in a Ziploc bag! Shampoo, deodorant, juice, lip balm, etc. It needs to go in a baggie. No one wants melted deodorant and busted shampoo all over their snacks!

Care Package DONT’S:• DON'T send anything too big. Chances are, his storage is very limited. Small pictures, drawings and cards are perfect. But other than that, stick to food. They want that more than anything else! • DON'T forget the vitamins! Chances are he does not have a well balanced diet while deployed. There’s not an abundance of fresh fruits and veggies while deployed. Multivitamins are a great addition to any package! • DON'T forget his friends. Spread the love. It’s the least you can do. • DON'T skip a week. If you commit to send a box each week, do it. One week skipped means he is the one at mail call with no mail.

tjmag.com • 17

Angelina County Benefit Rodeo

PLACES & FACES

GRILLED CHICKEN TERIYAKI WRAP

Ingredients:

Chicken breast Head of lettuce Pineapple rounds Blue agave or honey Soy Sauce Red onion Roma tomato Bacon Swiss Cheese, optional

Instructions:

Mix some blue Agave or honey with soy sauce and marinate the chicken breast that has been punctured several times with a fork. Add the pineapple slices and some juice to the marinade. Let marinate for at least an hour. Grill the chicken on the barbeque until done. Also grill the pineapple slices for a few minutes on each side. Cook the bacon and slice the tomato and onion for topping. Wrap your burger in the lettuce leaves.

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tjmag.com • 19

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20 • THE JOURNEY • MAY2013

Amy McLeod, RD, LD is a registered dietitian and Healthy Living Spokeswoman

for Brookshire Brothers.

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by Amy McLeod, RD, LD

Here’s a perfect option for a semi-homemade and easy party

appetizer.

Black Bean, Sweet Corn and Tomato Salsa

Ingredients 1 tablespoon lime juice

1 tablespoon ground black pepper 1 tablespoon cilantro

15.5 ounce jar Tostitos® Restaurant Style Salsa1/2 cup black beans

1/2 cup corn (frozen or roasted)1 tablespoon hot sauce

1 ounce Tostitos® Scoops!® Tortilla Chips

Nutrition Information for 1 Tbsp. Salsa and 1 ounce of chips:

155 calories, 7 grams Total Fat, 320 mg sodium, 2 grams Carbohydrate

Source: Frito-Lay North America, Inc. ©2013.

MAY IS PARTY TIMESome Tips to Keep You Eating Mindfully

uring the month of May, the calendar quickly fills up with social events such as graduation parties, cookouts and reunions. Parties are a great way to catch up with friends and family, but throughout all of that talking and laughing, we sometimes don’t pay attention to what and how much we’re eating and drinking. Here are tips for party guests and hosts to keep in mind to keep portions in check while celebrating!

TIPS FOR THE GUEST:

• Prior to the party, eat a snack containing protein and fiber. If you arrive at the party hungry, you are more likely to overindulge. Pre-party snack ideas are cheese and whole grain crackers or fruit and a cup of yogurt.

• Look at the entire table before putting anything on your plate. Make the decision ahead of time about what you want to eat and how much.

• Practice mindful eating. Chew slowly and savor the flavor, taste and texture. Pay attention to feeling full.

• Do not eat directly out of the serving dish. Put everything on your plate, even foods that you can grab by hand, like nuts and chips.

• Don’t stand right where the food is being served. Plate your portions, find a seat and only go back for more if you are truly hungry.

TIPS FOR THE HOST:

• Downsize your dishes. The fact is, bigger plates and bowls hold more food. It’s not about policing how much food your guests take, but it’s about helping them control portion size. This will save on food costs, too!

• Save snacking for the party: As you prepare foods, it’s easy to eat as you go. It’s okay to taste as you cook for flavoring purposes, but try not to eat more than you need. Have cut up raw vegetables and fruit for a healthy snack as you prepare.

• Set up stations. Don’t put all of the food and drinks in one area – or guests are likely to form a traffic jam. Instead, offer a few different food stations throughout your home to encourage mingling.

• Serve dressings and sauces on the side. This allows guests to choose how much they would like.

• Dessert time. Mini desserts are quite popular and allow your guests to get a bite of several desserts without all the added calories. Mini desserts are also easy for younger guests to manage. Offer a variety of mini-cupcakes or bite-sized brownies with different toppings. They will be sure to satisfy any sweet tooth and keep portion control in check.

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YOUR COMMUNITY22 community leader • 24 calendar • 26 inspiring woman

22 • THE JOURNEY • MAY2013

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t’s that job you know someone has to do, but like most, you put it out of sight and out of mind. A probation officer is very much needed in today’s court system. More importantly, for our neighbors and our children, we need probation officers to help our community be a better and

safer place to live.

Beverly Baker has taken on this role, and she is doing her part as a probation officer. Not only does she daily perform her job with excellence, but seeks to use it to make a difference each day.

According to Beverly, she was a “later bloomer.” She didn’t know what she wanted to be when she grew up until she was in her mid twenties; it was then she went to college to study social work. She was 32 when she graduated college and had a passion and drive for her future.

Baker’s director, Rodney Thompson, says, “While other students chose ‘softer’ agencies in which to complete their practicum, Beverly wanted to work full time in the field of criminal justice. She began her full-time, unpaid internship in the spring semester of 2000 and was assigned to assist with a specialized Chemically Dependent Caseload. Before her internship ended, she had proven herself to be competent, energetic, and fearless for change among her challenging clientele. When she graduated, she was hired by the department and became a full time community supervision officer.”

Beverly has been with the department for the last 12 years and has loved every day. “It is always busy and there is never a dull moment. We see offenders twice a month. My role is to ‘make sure offenders comply with terms and conditions set forth by the court and keep the public safe.’ But really, I am their mom, banker, and counselor, whatever they need.”

Having to be their banker and counselor is not a disgruntled added duty for Baker. She is happy to take on whatever role an offender needs. Beverly remembers, “One time I was visiting one of my clients and she was telling me she could never work at a restaurant because she didn’t know how to count change. Right then and there, I emptied all the change out of my purse and we began counting and practicing counting change.”

Baker explains that all of her offenders are basically the same. “There are a lot of good people on probation who have made bad choices.” One of her best examples of this is a 40 year old female named Trish. She used methamphetamines for approximately 15 years; she was homeless and owned nothing but her little dog. Trish was placed on probation for three different charges, possession, manufacturing, and distributing methamphetamines. She went to a ninety day treatment program and then was placed in 6 months aftercare. Baker says, “When she reported to me after she was released from

county jail and 90 days inpatient, I did not recognize her. This female was ready to be sober and wanted a future besides methamphetamines. She moved in with her parents, was sober almost two years and her mom passed away. She maintained her sobriety, worked her program. After 2 years clean, I went and presented her with her two year chip at AA/NA. After 3 ½ years on probation, I took her in front of Judge White and he granted her early termination because she had done so well and maintained her sobriety. She had changed the people she hung around, the places she went, and the things she chose to do. She came and spoke to my DWI Intervention classes and told her story to help others. She continues to tell her story to reach out and help others. Last year I attended her wedding. She is living proof that you can get off of methamphetamines or any other drug as long as you want it bad enough, and she did. She has been off of probation since 2010. She is a wonderful example of what makes my job so worthwhile.”

The passion and drive Beverly Baker brings to her role every day is why she was awarded the 2012 Line Officer of the Year. This was a great honor to a very deserving leader who makes a difference every day.

BEVERLY BAKER

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Beverly Baker and her husband, Steve Baker, who is Sergeant of Diboll Police Department.

tjmag.com • 23

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CongratulationsClass of 2013!

To submit your event for the June issue, email your event to calendar@tjmag.com by May 20th.

UPCOMING EVENTS

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5/11Jump, Jive and Wail: A 1940’s Hangar Dance, USO Style

At the Angelina County Airport from 6pm-11pm. Proceeds benefit the Texas Forestry Museum. For more information, call 936.632.9535 or visit www.treetexas.com.

5/183rd Annual Summer Fest Texas Music Festival

and Brookshire Brother’s Backyard BBQ Cook-Off

Downtown Lufkin. A BBQ Cook-off, an all-new Battle of the Bands competition and Classic Jimmy Buffett songs from the nationally- touring, tribute band—Son of

a Sailor. For more information, visit www.easttexassummerfest.com or call 936.633.0349

5/18Be a Charitabull!

Stop by Bullritos for lunch... proceeds benefit the Winnie Berry HSAC.

5/19First Annual Winnie Berry Dog Show

12 Noon. Family friendly event. Pet dogs are just as awesome as show dogs! Show your dog or a shelter dog. Call 936-639-1880 or visit www.

AngelinaCountyHumaneSociety.org

6/6Diabetes Support Group

At Memorial Health System of Lufkin Community Room A from 12-1pm. Cost is $5 and includes lunch. For more information, call 936.639.7585

6/21Dog Days Of Summer Charitable Golf Tournament

Benefits the Winnie Berry Humane Society. Personal sponsorships and four man teams available. Call 936-639-1880 for details.

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tjmag.com • 25

26 • THE JOURNEY • MAY2013

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photography by Morgan Due

STEFANI WILLMONome of the best love stories begin with, “We were high school sweethearts…” Such is true of Stefani and Eric Willmon. Stefani was born in Lufkin, and she, her parents and her sisters still live in Lufkin today.

When she was in high school, Stefani met Eric and she remembers, “He was the most genuine, caring person.” They were married on March 16, 1991. Two years later, Carter was born and Chloe followed in 1997. When their children were young, they focused on raising them to put God first and serve others. Stefani finished college when Carter was 2. She began work at Woodland Heights and has worked there for nearly 18 years.

Eric worked for the Lufkin Police Department for over 10 years. He enjoyed serving his community and was a top notch officer. They raised their children in Providence Baptist Church. She says, “We saw both of our children follow Christ as their Savior, and at that point we thought we had it all.”

In 2011, Eric had not been feeling well; he was more tired than usual and often had a low-grade temperature. Stefani, being a nurse, sent him to the doctor with a ‘to-do’ list. The doctor ran a battery of tests and everything came back normal. Soon after, Eric noticed his arm and neck were very swollen. He went to the hospital, and a chest x-ray revealed a large mass in his chest cavity around the heart in the great vessels. He also had a blood clot and the mass was pressing on his vessels. He was transferred to Methodist in Houston and began a 10 day hospital admission to determine exactly what was wrong. Doctors performed a biopsy to determine the exact diagnosis.

On March 15, 2011, just one day before his twenty year wedding anniversary, Eric was diagnosed with cancer, stage 3B Hodgkin’s Lymphoma. He had a large primary mass and several other spots. On day 10 in the hospital, Eric received his first chemo treatment. Stefani remembers, “We went home and decided we could deal with this; we would do what we had to do.” Hodgkin’s Lym-phoma is one of the most treatable forms of cancer. It was their son’s senior year in high school and the family prepared to see Eric through 5 months of chemo therapy. Throughout this time, Eric was extremely involved with Carter and Chloe. Stefani says,”His family was his life. He was all about his family. Many times, he would get a chemo treatment and go directly to a game, sick and with a fever.”

Eric continued to work for the Lufkin Police. Stefani recounts, “The Lufkin police were wonderful. They made a position and let him work when he could, but when he couldn’t they were okay. I can’t say enough good things about them.”

At the two month follow up, Eric’s PET scan showed the cancer was gone. He continued chemo and radiation as planned. One month before he finished chemo, Eric developed an irregular heartbeat, which was a side effect of his medication. He was admitted to Woodland Heights where they converted his heart with medication.

Eric finished treatment and was ready to resume his normal routine. He continued to have atrial fibrillation. Doctors tried different medications, but it wasn’t going away. It began to interfere with his everyday life, and he wasn’t feeling well. He was referred to a heart doctor in Houston. Under the suggestion of the doctor, Eric underwent a cardiac ablation to permanently relieve the atrial fibrillation.

Eric and Stefani returned to Houston 4 weeks later for a follow-up with the cardiologist. He was pleased with Eric’s progress. On the same day, they saw the radiation oncologist and everything was looking good.

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28 • THE JOURNEY • MAY2013

They returned home to Lufkin, and God had completely orches-trated the events of the evening, giving Stefani, Carter and Chloe time with Eric that would become their precious, final conversations with him. Eric and Stefani stopped to buy groceries for Carter, something they didn’t always do. Stefani texted Carter and told him he needed to stop by the house that evening for his groceries. Once home, Chloe needed notebook paper for a school project and Eric went to get it. Stefani had the opportunity to tell Eric, “You are such a good dad.” Stefani remembers, “He looked at me and thanked me for going to the doctor with him. It was odd for him to tell me this, but I remember the compliment well.”

The next morning at 5:00 a.m., Stefani was getting dressed to head to work at Woodland Heights. Eric came in shaking. He was freezing cold and his arm was going numb. He asked Stefani to call 911. Once at the hospital, Eric was incoherent. In the hours that followed, he had multiple scans to determine what was causing him to be so sick, so fast. His body temperature rose to 105 degrees and doctors put him on a ventilator.

Doctors called his cardiologist in Houston, and he immediately knew what had happened. Eric had a very rare complication to the cardiac ablation, atrial esophageal fistula. He was life-flighted to Houston and emergency surgery was performed to put a stent in his esophagus. The complication from the ablation had caused his heart and esophagus to grow together, and a hole had formed between his esophagus and the atrium of his heart. When he would swallow air, it went from his esophagus straight to his heart, then to his brain. Bacteria from his saliva had entered that hole in his heart and there was now an infection in his bloodstream.

This rare complication has only been seen in 3 other patients at the hospital and none of them survived it. Stefani says, “We still had a little hope, but we didn’t know the extent of his brain injury.” There was a possibility of another surgery, but doctors weren’t sure he would wake up to perform it. An EEG showed that the ‘CPU’ in his brain had been badly damaged; if he ever woke up, he would never be the same. He would never communicate, work or care for himself. Stefani says, “Eric dying was not my biggest fear, because I knew where he was going. My biggest fear was him surviving and living with no quality of life.”

Eric never woke up in the hospital. After watching him deteriorate for 2 weeks, Stefani, along with Carter and Chloe, decided to unplug the machines that were keeping Eric alive. Stefani remembers, “I prayed for God to take him immediately, and he did. I knew I had made the right decision. For the first time in 2 weeks, I could breathe. God took him at his perfect time.”

Throughout Eric’s hospital stay, Stefani was never alone. Her mother or one of her sisters was always with her. The com-munity reached out with benefit fundraisers and provided meals and financial support. Stefani says, “The community prayed so hard for Eric, and when he died, I was so worried people would lose their faith because they were asking God to heal him. In my mind, Eric was healed with the ultimate healing, so our prayers were answered.”

The hours following Eric’s death were a foreshadowing of how this great community would pay tribute to his life and service. An ambulance picked up his body that was draped in an American flag and escorted by the honor guard. On the way home, Stefani and her children followed behind the ambulance and police units, with lights on the entire way. From county to county, the entire way from Houston to Lufkin, sheriff ’s departments and police officers were standing on the side of the road saluting Eric. Stefani remembers, “This support helped us so much.”

Eric’s life was celebrated as a true hero. On the day of his funeral, bagpipes played, the honor guard saluted and the life-flight heli-copter flew overhead.

This April, Stefani and her children honored the first anniversary of Eric’s home going. The year before his death was hard. Stefani explains, “Cancer is the best and worst thing that happens to you. It changes you both ways. It helped me to see the good in God and the good in people. I see the urgency to help those in need, and I want to help others.”

Going through a long illness can put a strain on a family and marriage. Stefani says, “I had gotten very discouraged with the financial strain, long hospital stays, and being the one to do everything.” She reminds those struggling that it’s important to let others help you. She says, “I had someone tell me to allow others to help me. Don’t feel guilty when someone wants to help. You will rob them of a blessing if you don’t let them.”

This journey has taught Stefani many things, but one is certain; she has had to lean on her faith in God to make it through. She says, “I don’t know how anyone makes it though anything like this without God. Every situation in life will teach you something if you allow it to; God will take care of you if you allow Him to.”

Stefani continues to honor Eric’s life. She notices the small things in the world around her: a rainbow, a gentle breeze, or a bird chirping. Eric loved the outdoors, and when she witnesses these things, she feels close to him. God gives her these moments, and she is grateful for the tender ways He has led her down this path in her life.

Today, Stefani is learning to focus on God and follow after the plans He has for in these days. Carter is a sophomore at Stephen F. Austin in Nacogdoches and Chloe is a freshman at Hudson High School where she is a cheerleader. They are learning each day how to be a family of three, how to serve others in their pain and how to keep carrying on the legacy of a great man.

tjmag.com • 29

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YOUR LIFE32 something abundant • 34 relationships • 40 fashion • 42 health

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by Angie Nichols

Angie Nichols is the founder of Something Abundant Ministries, serving women through worship and Biblical teaching and the author of Something Abundant: growing from a child of God to the bride of Christ. Her passion is for women to know the beauty of an abundant life knowing Christ as Bridegroom. She is married to Chris and they have one daughter, Mycah. For more informa-tion, visit: somethingabundantministries.org

f the legacy of heroes is the inheritance of a great example, I have two great ones to aspire toward--my mother and her dad, my “Pawpaw”.

These are the words of my mother (Barbara Adams) in honor of her father’s heroic life of service to God, country, and family:

“Growing up, my parents were my comfortable place. I was an only child, and dad served in

the U.S. Air Force. Members of our extended family often teased me about appearing in Webster’s Unabridged. “Babs, if you look up ‘daddy’s girl,’ your picture will be on the page!”

I married right after high school, and my parents retired to Texas soon after. My husband and I were married fifteen years when he was killed in a plane crash. We had three children, and the youngest was only five. Life after that offered up more than enough challenge. But my dad’s optimism and support helped fill the void in our family. Dad accompanied me to a thousand ball-games, took my little girl to father-daughter banquets and led the standing ovations after the kids’ band concerts.

My father developed Rheumatoid Arthritis in his early fifties; it crippled his hands but never his spirit. Diagnosed with the same disease in my mid-forties, I watched him long enough to accept the difficulties ahead without fear. He still produced all kinds of wonderful articles in his wood shop.

Then one day, materializing without forewarning, my indefatigable father realized he no longer understood how to program his VCR. A small thing

really, but not to a man who once worked on nuclear missiles. He also developed a constant backache.

I sent many prayers heavenward throughout my life concerning my father. As a small girl, watching him leave the house in his smart Air Force uniform, they usually centered on his safe return. There were prayers asking for his pain to ease when the arthritis kept him up all night, and prayers of thanksgiving for his presence in our lives. But my most fervent request concentrated upon his death, that his strong spirit not be subject to the indignity of a disabling disease. Was my prayer for him, I often wondered, or for me?

In everyone’s life, words are spoken that stop the normal flow of time. These words found me one evening after dad was admitted to the hospital. The back pain was increasing and he needed some relief. A routine chest x-ray showed cancer.

Fear enveloped me as I became caregiver to the one who cared for me all my life. My invincible father knew the sure outcome of his disease, as did the entire family. His body surely dying, the hero was alive and well. As usual, daddy helped me build what was needed to overcome the impending dread. A tremendous husband, father, grandfather and friend, his family and friends returned his love many times over. He led us gently through those last days and commanded we follow with our heads up, facing fear head on.

So on that last day, a day I forbade myself to consider throughout my life, I was not fearful. Just the three of us again, he was leaving, and mom and I knew it. I held one beautiful misshapen hand and mom held the other. We told him how much we loved him and we would see him again soon.

On a sunny spring day, the honor guard precisely folded the symbol of the country he loved. The detail leader placed it in my mother’s hands and offered this statement: “On behalf of the President of the United States, the Depart-ment of the Air Force and a grateful nation, we offer this flag for the faithful and dedicated service of Chief Master Sergeant Billy Donald Law.” Riflemen fired the customary twenty-one rounds of tribute, and “Taps” washed over my senses. I listened for the first time in the manner it was meant to be heard, “Go to sleep, peaceful sleep, may the soldier, God to keep.”

His physical presence was gone, but I soon realized he was not. My comfortable place was there still. I saw him in my children’s smiles, my changing hands, my mother’s heart; too many places to recount. I touch the things he made and feel him there, listen to his advice in my mind, and know the way he would have me go.”

“...if only your descendants are careful in all they do to walk before me faithfully as you have done.” --God, 1 Kings 8:25

To the descendants of the greatest generation, we have much to attain in the legacy we’ve been handed. And much need in our days for heroism. To those who set high the standard of service to God, country, and family, we are thankful and pray your example will strengthen us for the tasks at hand.

A HEROIC LEGACY OF FAITHThe legacy of heroes is the memory of a great name and the inheritance of a great example. --Benjamin Disraeli

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tjmag.com • 33

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Contact us at (936) 637-3547 formore information on ticket sales.

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34 • THE JOURNEY • MAY2013

Called to ServiceRE

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hen I think about all of the service men and women in our country, my heart is touched by their willingness to protect our nation, whether it is through one of the armed forces, as a policeman, as a fireman, or any other service organization. Personally, it has been difficult for me to imagine releasing my husband or one of my sons to enter one of these service organizations because of the dangerous situations they could be in. I have the

ultimate respect for all of those who are willing to put their life on the line to protect you and me.

As a woman, I am impressed with the women who “stand by their man” to be an emotional and physical support for them. I have talked with some women to get their viewpoint on the role they play as their loved one serves in some special way. It amazed me how they have managed their emotions and feelings in very similar ways.

“Matt and I believe we are doing what God has called us to do, and we have chosen to stay positive,” said Mandi Ramsey. Matt Ramsey was deployed to Afghanistan in January. His wife, Mandi, was pregnant with their first child. Many have remarked to Mandi how they feel sorry for her having to be alone having this baby. Mandi explains, “I do not want pity. When you think of us, pray for us. I believe Matt is making the biggest sacrifice! I have family and friends who help me and are encouragers for me. As an officer, Matt cannot be as effective as he wants to be without experiencing deployment. As his wife, I cannot be a support for the wives until I have experienced my husband being gone and risking his life daily. We are so blessed to have Skype. Matt and I were the only ones in the delivery room during our daughter’s birth (except the nurses and doctors) – all made possible through Skype. We talk to each other just about every day by the means of great technology. You can Facebook Matt and send messages: thinking of you, praying for you, words of encouragement, etc. This service is a choice that we made believing this is God’s plan for us. I cling to the scripture, ‘Do not be anxious about anything, but in every situation, by prayer and petition, with thanksgiving, present your requests to God’.” (Philippians 4:6)

My heart was so blessed to hear Mandi, such a young lady, speak so maturely about their desire to not only serve their country, but also serve the Lord with a willing heart.

“God gave me peace about Travis being a fireman,” said Pam Kirtley. Travis Kirtley is a relatively new fireman for the Lufkin Fire Department. To know your young son is putting his life in danger can be a challenge for any mother. Pam has chosen to believe that this is God’s plan for her son. “I get concerned about him when he is tired and situations are difficult, but I know that he is doing what God designed him to do.” She continues, “I have learned when I hear a siren to begin to pray for the safety of the ones involved, as well as the caretakers. I use to just wonder who was hurt or what has someone done, but now the siren is a signal to begin praying. There is an undeniable peace when you know that you know your loved one is doing what God has called them to do. That doesn’t mean that they may not be hurt in some way, but I can trust in God’s plan for their life.”

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Matthew & Mandi Ramsey

Travis Kirtley

tjmag.com • 35

by Kathryn Greene

“I believe a ‘good’ police officer is ordained by God (Romans 13:1-5),” said Lanette Sanches. “Because I believe that God has given my husband, Greg, the passion to be a public servant, I have a mutual respect and understanding of his position. God has given me a peace in knowing that if his life was taken in the line of duty, I would see him again because he has a personal relationship with Jesus. I certainly pray for his safety – I can’t imagine doing life without him. But, my peace comes because I believe he is doing exactly what God created him to do. I desire for believers to pray a hedge of protection around all our law enforcement officers, because I know prayer can change situations and give calmness to stressful situations.”

There is a distinct common thread between these ladies; they know the person in service to their community and country is doing what God had planned for them, and this gives them peace. Someone said, “The safest place on earth is in the center of God’s will. It may not be what you or I would call safe! It is doing what God wants you to do!” Each of these ladies realized they had a choice, to submit to God’s leadership and experience peace or fight it and be miserable.

I asked, “How can we as a Christian family and community support you?”

Prayer was first – pray for God’s wisdom, guidance, and protection.

Second, give words of encouragement. We all realize what they are doing is hard, but an arm around the shoulder and an uplifting word means a great deal to all of them.

Third, find ways to physically give them encouragement: Face-book them, get an email address or a physical address.

Fourth, the way that the law enforcement officer works, the job responsibility of the enlisted service person, or the schedule of the fireman can be very hard on his wife. “She may feel like a single mom many times with the full responsibility of the discipline and care of the children,” said Taunya Vicknair, the wife of DPS Officer Tripp Vicknair. “It would be encouraging to the wife for people to take notice of the family’s needs when the husband is absent.”

Life is too difficult for any of us to do it all alone. These wives have learned to lean on the only true source of peace in this crazy world in which we live. The verse that Mandi Ramsey quoted from in Philippians 4 is followed by verse 7, “And the peace of God, which transcends all understanding, will guard your hearts and your minds in Christ Jesus.” Another verse these ladies are living by is Isaiah 26:3, “You will keep in perfect peace those whose minds are steadfast, because they trust in you.”

A special “salute” to those who have responded to a call to service!

Above: Greg Sanches. Below : the Vicknair Family

36 • THE JOURNEY • MAY2013

March of Dimes

PLACES & FACES

tjmag.com • 37

Freedom. The pain in Charlotte Newman’s knees was so severe that she couldn’t make plans without considering how far she’d have to walk and whether there would be stairs. “My quality of life really suffered,” she said. That’s when Charlotte decided to have knee replacements at Woodland Heights Medical Center. “Dr. Jackson Wagnon and the staff were compassionate and accommodating. The rehab team was wonderful. And today, I have no pain, no limp – and no hesitation to go out and enjoy life!”

Woodland Heights Medical Center is the only hospital in Lufkin with national accreditation from The Joint Commission for both hip and knee replacement. It recognizes our dedication to continuous compliance with the group’s state-of-the-art standards. Learn more about our advanced orthopedic care at WoodlandHeights.net.

Jackson Wagnon, M.D., is an Independent Member of the Medical Staff of Woodland Heights Medical Center. Woodland Heights Medical Center is directly or indirectly owned by a partnership that proudly includes physician owners, including certain members of the hospital’s medical staff.

“I don’t have to plan my life around knee pain anymore.”

505 S. John Redditt Dr. • Lufkin936-699-CARE

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tjmag.com • 39

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Jessica (Jess) is a 28-year old brunette born and raised in Lufkin. She is in love with fashion and wearing high heels, even though she’s 5’10’’. She graduated from Stephen F. Austin with a Fashion Merchandising degree. She and her husband live in Houston with their 2 dogs, Bella and Bentley. She is an assistant buyer for a department store in Houston, Texas. She and her sister-in-law, Jo, have their own fashion blog where they share their love of fashion on a budget.

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SPRING 2013 TRENDSWhile most people look forward to flowers blooming and sunshine during spring, for me--- it’s all about the shoes. Finally my feet get the chance to slip into sandals and strappy wedges.

This spring, I’m loving all the fun and colorful shoe trends.

Ankle Strap Sandals A huge trend for spring is the very feminine and simple ankle strap heel. I love this look paired with skinny pants and a basic top such as a button down. They’re fun and flirty, but can also make your outfit look instantly polished.

Cork Wedges Wedges are an outfit staple for the spring and summer seasons. Wedges can dress up or down an outfit. They can go with your favorite T-shirt and jeans to be classy or casual. The brightly colored wedges are so fun and a great way to add color to any outfit.

Gladiators Flat gladiator sandals are practical and comfortable, but will also make all of your outfits stylish this season. They will look great with a springy dress, shorts or skinny jeans. This season you will see the gladiator in plenty of bright colors, with studs and a wide variety of prints and materials.

Platform Sandals If you are a self-confident fashionista, platform sandals are a must-have item for your closet. Platform sandals come in a wide range of styles, textures and colors, so you will surely find a pair that you love. They have heels, but they are comfortable all day long. These statement fashion items can transform an everyday outfit into something dramatic and fabulous.

Floral Pumps There’s hardly anything more feminine than a great pair of heels, but add the floral print in the mix, and you get sophisticated style. Floral patterns are surprisingly versatile. Whether it’s a classic little black dress or a pair of boyfriend jeans, you can wear them with practically anything in your closet.

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tjmag.com • 41

Junior League of Lufkin Spring MarketPLACES & FACES

1st Place"I love you daddy"

by Lily Camarillo, Lufkin Middle School recipient of a Woodland Heights gift bag, a $100 Visa gift card, a new Coca Cola backpack & a Kindle Fire

Upon his heart, an attack so great, Throbbing pain that keeps him awake.

The pain shooting through his arm, the sweating anxiously raised alarm.

Too young to be on his way, the first thing I do is begin to pray: Father, Son, Holy Spirit, Amen.

I rush to the hospital with him and to the emergency room we fled.

As I heard the long sudden beep, I started to weep.

The doctor had done well, he did his very best. I love you daddy, Rest in Peace.

2nd Place"Keep the Beat"

by Elizabeth Draper, Central Junior High recipient of a Woodland Heights gift bag & a $100 Visa gift card

My heart keeps me going from my head to my feet. It helps me live, laugh and play with each and every beat.

My mom is special and she means the world to me. She tries everyday to be healthy as can be

We’ve joined together to watch what we eat, so both our hearts will continue to beat.

My mother’s heart is a work of art – her heart has loved me right from the start.

3rd Place“Sunshine”

by Noah Cole of Hudson Middle School recipient of a Woodland Heights gift bag & a $100 Visa gift card

You have always called me your Sunshine. But did you know that you were also mine?

At the end of the song for which I got my name – it reads “please don’t take my sunshine away”

If you don’t take care of your heart’s condition, one day my sunshine might got missing.

If your light goes out, so does mine, I will no longer be anyone’s Sunshine.

We can help one another, my lovely mother.

For if your heart does not improve, it’s you that I will lose.

You are a great mother and you are mine. Sincerely – you’re sunshine.

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(L-R) 1. 1st Place: Grand Prize winner of the Poetry with Purpose contest is Lily Camarillo of Lufkin Middle School. Presenting the award is Christie Maddux and Jennifer Stevens of Woodland Heights Medical Center. Also pictured is Mrs. Satterwhite of Lufkin Middle School. Lily’s poem was titled “I love you daddy.” 2. 2nd Place: Elizabeth Draper of Central Junior High is the second place overall winner in the Woodland Heights Poetry with Purpose contest. Photographed are Central Junior High Principal, Adam Ivy, Christie Maddux, Elizabeth Draper, and Jennifer Stevens. Elizabeth’s poem was titled “Keep the Beat.” 3. 3rd Place: Noah Cole of Hudson Middle School is the third place overall winner in the Woodland Heights Poetry with Purpose contest. Photographed are Noah Cole and Jane Fischer of Hudson Middle School. Making the presentation is Christie Maddux and Jennifer Stevens of Woodland Heights Medical Center. His poem was titled “Sunshine.” 4. HG Temple Junior High – Hanna Phillips was the class winner from HG Temple Junior High. Hanna’s poem was titled “Your Heart.” 5. Pineywoods – The class winner from Pineywoods Community Academy was Micole Jackson. Her poem was titled “Special Heart.”

Poetry with a PurposeWoodland Heights Medical Center recently held their annual poetry contest for local 6th grade students. The poems were written for the WHMC annual Women in Red event. These are the top 3 poems chosen by a panel of judges.

YOUR CHILD44 pretty babies • 46 parent thoughts • 47 look at me 49 birthday bash

photographed by Morgan Due

E-mail Pretty Babies submissions to prettybabies@tjmag.com. Please include the information seen above. Submissions are free of charge.

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Committed.

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1. Kenzley Kay Antley. 9/25/2012. Proud Parents: David & Ashley Antley. Proud Grandparents: Shawn & Wendy Dulaney / Anita Coleman / the late Lisa Figueroa (All of Diboll, TX). 2. Paisley Aeryn Arnold. 1/11/13. Proud Parents: Michael & Lindsey Arnold. 3. Alexa Nevaeh Bañuelos. 3/5/13. Proud Parents: Jadi Mandujano & David Bañuelos (Lufkin, TX). Proud Grandparents: Victor & Leticia Mandujano (Lufkin, TX) / David & Maria Bañuelos (Diboll, TX). 4. Isabella Bermudez. 3/18/13. Proud Parents: Rodolfo Bermudez & Mireya Cabrera (Lufkin, TX). Proud Grandparents: Gisela & Carlos Tovar (Lufkin,TX) / Emerenciana & Raul Cabrera (Lufkin,TX). 5. Enzo Burton Buttacavoli. 7/12/12. Proud Parents: Matthew & Kiley Buttacavoli (Wylie, TX). 6. Tiyah Zahnique Ligon-Jones. 12/12/12. Proud Parents: La Tisha Davis & Dwight Ligon. Proud Grandparents: Edna Ligon (Diboll, TX) / Dwight & Carol Jones (Houston, TX). 7. Ronan Wayne Murphy. 6/25/12. Proud Parents: Darin & Amber Murphy. Proud Grandparents: Denise Havener (Lufkin, TX) / Patricia Phillips & Mike Murphy (Livingston, TX). 8. Jason Andres Zapata. 8/19/12. Proud Parents: Alberto & Krystina Zapata. Proud Grandparents: Norma & Ernesto Berreles (Lufkin, TX) / Octavio & Angelica Velazquez (Lufkin, TX) / Francisco & Maria Zapata (Lufkin, TX).

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Kelly Finnerud and husband, Ryan, have 3 energetic kids, Aidan (8), Trace (6) and Emmy (4). They have been married 10 years. Ryan is a worship pastor at Grace Bible Church in Nacogdoches, and Kelly has a music education degree and has been a band director in the area until staying home with young children. Kelly writes for ParentThoughts.com, an online resource sharing local activities, parenting stories and anything else kid-related in our area.

by Kelly Finnerud

think if you were to ask my children what freedom means, they’d say getting to eat candy whenever they want, staying up as late as they would like, and buying every single Beyblade known to man. (Though I think we may already own them all.) For me as an adult, it means being able

to make my own choices: where I want to live, who I want to worship, and what I want to say and learn to do. Unlike my children, I realize someone has to protect those freedoms.

As a parent, I strive to give my children a place to be free, a place where they can be themselves. But as all of you parents know, that comes with a cost to us, like making sure our doors are locked and staying vigilant about what and who is coming into our home. And when my kids aren’t at home, their teachers work hard to give them a safe place to freely learn and play.

I teach our children to say thank you when something is done for them. That means saying thank you to me and their teachers. But I know I haven’t explained the importance of thanking our troops, and I sure don’t set a good example here. When we pass someone in uniform, I might occasionally mutter to my kids, “You know, you really should thank him/her,” and we continue on our merry way. So why don’t I stop and speak up? Because honestly, the military is something I know very little about. I’m afraid they’ll ask me a question and make me feel ignorant. I’m afraid they’ll start talking about their time served. I’m afraid they might not have military ties and they’re just dressing that way. (What? Combat boots and long pants aren’t in style anymore?)

Whichever excuse I use, it’s a pitiful one, and I’m teaching my kids that the men and women who willingly devote their lives to our freedom are not important.

So what can I do?

• We can send a package or handwritten letter to service members. Sites like anysoldier.com make it easy!

• We can teach them about the 5 branches of the military. Help our kids identify each uniform, and watch for them worn in public.

• We can teach them about our nation’s history and our rights. HistoryForKids.org has a lot of this already put into kid-talk.

• Remind them that even though The Avengers may not exist outside the TV screen, we do have real-life heroes.

• We can let them watch us just walk up and say, “Thank you for your service.”

To the soldiers who have dedicated their lives and the lives of their families to serving our country, here’s a big, sincere Thank You!

I

Teaching our Children to Honor Heroes

tjmag.com • 47

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LOOK AT ME!1. Aniyah Richardson, 6. Parents are Shell and Furlose Criswell. Aniyah attends Peavy Primary in Hudson, & she plays softball for the Lipsticks. 2. Students at St. Cyprian’s Episcopal School donated new and gently used books to Will Chance’s book collection program called Books That Benefit. (L-R): Andrew Adams, Anson Adams, Keilah Nerren, Kylie Ridings, Bailey Thomas, Bethany Nerren with Mr. Will Chance in the back. 3. Diboll Junior High competed in the District One Act Play competition in Carthage and took 2nd place overall, with several individual awards, including Outstanding Technical Crew – Juan Gonzalez, All Star Cast Honorable Mention – Jo Lynn Baker and Paula Whitehead, All Star Cast – Kallen Treadway, and Best Actor – Alec Reyes. The event sponsors from the junior high were Rebecca Adair, Lisa Heath, Tina Terrell, and Deanna Willmann. This is everyone that participated including cast, crew and sponsors. 4. Diboll Junior High competed in the District One Act Play competition in Carthage and took 2nd place overall, with several indi-vidual awards. (L-R): Alec Reyes, Sean Myers, Paula Whitehead, Kallen Treadway, Sarah Hambrick, and Jo Lynn Baker 5. Kindergarten student, Nickolas Hodges, holds his 7-year-old Yorkshire Terrier, Kaytee, in his arms at the Kindergarten Pet Show at St. Cyprian’s Episcopal School. 6. 2013-2014 Panther Pride Officers (L-R): Lt. Candyce Martin, Lt. Claire Corley, Capt. Jordan Verner, Lt. Jahmia Durham, Lt. Kassidy Eberlan. 7. Alexsandra Flores, 14, made the varsity softball team as a freshman for the Lufkin Lady Panthers. We are so proud of her and we know that all her hard work and dedication is going to pay-off. Love, mom & dad! 8. Zavalla Seniors 2013! 9. Chyna Criswell (17months old) is Baby Miss Winterfare. Parent are Shell and Furlose Criswell.

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Women in Red

PLACES & FACES

Interested in purchasing a photo you see? Visit lisacrowphotography.smugmug.com!

photographed by Lisa Crow

tjmag.com • 49

great birthday bash for girls of all ages- Club Tabby! Augustina and Josefa invited a few of their friends to celebrate! All their friends enjoyed makeovers, complete with polished nails, makeup, and hair do's. Then

they all had a little fun dressing up, singing karaoke, and dancing on the stage. Club Tabby was a great place to celebrate turning 7 and 5. The only problem is, every little girl is always eager to go back and have more fun!

(*Club Tabby is located in Lufkin behind Buffalo Wild Wings. 936.632.3475)

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Girls Just Want to Have Fun!

50 • THE JOURNEY • MAY2013

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tjmag.com • 51

Elegant ImagesS A L O N

Top (L-R): Stylist: Sabrina Sutherland, Nail Tech: Julie Childers, Stylist: Dana Swearingen, Stylist/Owner: Heather Smith, Stylist: Wendy Rojo, Stylist: Jaime Davis, Massage Therapist: Jessica Davis. Bottom (L-R): Stylist: Chelsey Gibson,

Stylist: Natalie Oates, Stylist: Angie Foisie.

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* Massages by appointment | * Nails by appointment

{ Glitz and Glamour Boutique }Located inside salon | Alyson Baker, owner

139 E. Denman Ave | Lufkin, Tx 75901 | (936) 637-2001 | Like us on

52 • THE JOURNEY • MAY2013