Laurie Stroud
A Backache, a Silo, a Pigeon, & a Doctor
The Home Front When my youngest child, Joshua, was a teenager, he volunteered at a veterinarian clinic. He adored animals of all kinds. Joshua also worked hard building houses with his Grandaddy Jack and helping on the family farm. While enjoying my quiet time with the Lord one day and sipping my coffee with real …
4 Christian Essentials
Encouraging Word An essential is something that is absolutely necessary. Psalm 100 mentions four characteristics that are necessary for the Christian. 1. The first essential mentioned in Psalm 100:1-2 is joy. The dictionary defines joy as completely happy or blessed. A Biblical definition is “the confident assurance of God’s presence.” There is a difference between …
A Vivid Legacy at Mountain Brook Presbyterian Church
Special Feature Growing up, the stained glass windows at Mountain Brook Presbyterian Church (MBPC) were as iconic an image of home to me as the Old Mill House across from Jemison Park. I attended preschool at MBPC, and my children attend today. I remember being small, sitting in the chapel and staring up at the …
One of a Kind Gifts for Everyone
Christmas Gift Guide 2025 Piddlin Art & Antique is the perfect blend of old and new items. Art, antiques, jewelry, home décor, gifts and pottery items are just some of the many things you’ll find while browsing through the store. Piddlin Art & Antique in Vestavia is the home of many vendors that all have …
Volunteers Make a Lasting Impact with United Way’s Meals on Wheels
Mission Makers United Way’s Meals on Wheels volunteers are making a big impact in the Birmingham area each day. The Meals on Wheels community is “dedicated to improving the lives of homebound seniors and disabled individuals throughout Jefferson County by delivering meals and hope to those who are unable to fulfill their own nutritional needs.” Meet …
Holiday Glam: Red, Texture & Effortless Shine
Fashion For You Every December, one color takes center stage and never fails to make an entrance—red. From cozy sweaters with festive wording to sleek trousers or a simple pop through accessories, red is always the statement shade of the season. It’s vibrant, classic, and instantly puts you in the holiday spirit. Whether you’re dressing …
WBRC-TV Sheldon Haygood’s Path of Perseverance
Cover Story The enthusiastic shout of “Sideline!” is one that so many of us equate with WBRC-TV’s Sheldon Haygood, co-anchor and sideline reporter of the longstanding and ever popular “Sideline” Friday night high school football show. Behind all that enthusiasm, Haygood struggled with major health issues that attempted to sideline his 30 plus sports and …
Holiday Season ER Tips from Baptist Health
Healthy Living The holiday season is a time we all get to enjoy being with family and friends, giving thanks for our blessings and indulging in our favorite holiday treats. While you are celebrating, please be aware of the most common types of holiday injuries and how you can protect yourself and others from a trip to the …
How to Defuse Fiery Conversations in Marriage
Healthy Living The words spewed out like a volcanic eruption, “Just leave me alone!” David’s outburst leaves his wife, Lisa, frozen in confusion. After all, she only asked about his day. Lisa retorts, “Fine! Forgive me for trying to be a loving wife!” What Lisa did not know was that David had just lost his …
Strong on the Outside, Struggling Inside
Healthy Living If you’re like many people, you’ve learned to smile through the stress, show up for everyone else, and keep life running smoothly — even when your heart feels heavy. You tell yourself, I just need to push through a little longer, but deep down, you know something has to change. The truth is, …
