Laurie Stroud
Living in the Present
Healthy Living Lessons learned from Alcoholics Anonymous can often be applied with advantage by anyone. One such lesson is captured in the common saying, “One day at a time.” Underlying this admonition are two simple realities—we cannot change the past, and we cannot control the future. Also, implied by this slogan is the idea that …
Setting Goals and Boundaries When Your Teenager is Struggling
Parenting Points If your teenager is becoming increasingly irresponsible, you will feel a lot of strong emotions. But, even in the worst of times, there are things you can do to be a positive influence on them. Here are four of the most important is working with them to establish goals and boundaries. 1. Set …
Avoiding Probate with Trusts
Legal Matters Presented by: Bradford & Holliman, Estate Planning “Hindsight is 20/20” and here’s how to avoid a big “gotcha” with revocable living trusts in estate planning. One family was so grateful their mother had created her revocable trust 18 years ago. As the mother’s health worsened, the daughter named as the co-trustee managed her …
IRA and Retirement Plan Limits for 2020 have Increased
Money Matters Presented by: Vision Financial Group,www.vision-financialgroup.com IRA contribution limits. The maximum amount you can contribute to a traditional IRA or a Roth IRA in 2020 is $6,000 (or 100% of your earned income, if less), unchanged from 2019. The maximum catch-up contribution for those ages 50 or older remains at $1,000. You can contribute …
Celebrating 20 Years of Spreading GOOD NEWS!
Publisher’s Note “I have held may thing in my hands, and have lost them all; but whatever I have placed in God’s hands, that I still possess.” Martin Luther Looking back over the last 19 years since the first issue of Birmingham Christian Family magazine was published, I am reminded of the many, many ways …
How to Keep Your Siding in Good Shape this Winter
Our House Brought to you by: Community Partner Hinkle Roofing, www.HinkleRoofing.com With winter now fast approaching, your home and its components should be ready for what the season will bring. The temperature drop can do a number on your roof, replacement windows, and siding. However, they can better withstand the weather if they are well-maintained. …
Reflections on the Existence of God by Richard E. Simmons III
Best Books Does God exist? In his latest book, Reflections on the Existence of God, Richard E. Simmons III answers this question in a series of easy to read, short essays full of fascinating illustrations. The book is the culmination of 25 plus years of research and provides a powerful answer key of sorts for …
Spreading Christmas Cheer
Cover Story Christmas is the perfect time to gather the ones we love close and make memories. Most importantly it’s an opportunity for us to celebrate our Savior’s birth. Enjoy reading about favorite Christmas memories and traditions from these past Birmingham Christian Family (BCF) cover stories and BCF friends! Ruth Graham, Author of  Forgiving My …
Empowered to Serve: Tom McLeod, McLeod Software
Faith at Work If you decide to travel the interstates of Alabama or across the country this holiday season, the chances are excellent that you will encounter an 18-wheeler stamped with the slogan “M-Powered by McLeod Software.” For nearly 35 years, the Birmingham based company has been serving the trucking industry and has established a …
Shop for the Holidays at Home
Legal Matters Presented by: Bradford & Holliman, Estate Planning No, not online shopping. Why not give some of your memorabilia to family and friends now so that you can see their delight? No need to wait until your Will is read. Keep in mind: You will know that it went to exactly the right relative …
