Laurie Stroud
Share Hope & Let It Simmer
Special Feature Sometimes you just have to let things simmer a while… Not too many years back, I had the opportunity to travel with a few other men to Mexico City on a very specific mission trip. We ‘gringos’ were all heavily invested in the mission work of addiction recovery. Experts, some might say, in …
Diamond: A True Gem of a Dog
The Family Pet Traditionally, diamonds symbolize eternal love, and this aptly named gal pal is no exception! Meet Diamond, a two-year-old darling whose sparkle goes far beyond her name. Described by her foster family as “the happiest, cuddliest girl in the world,” she’s the kind of companion who turns everyday moments into something special. Whether …
The FBI National Academy & a Backwoods Deputy Sheriff from Alabama
The Home Front David and I married young, had a family, and happily raised our family and managed careers. While I was home raising the children, David was pursuing his career in law enforcement. As a deputy sheriff in Blount County, David worked his way up the ladder from deputy sheriff to supervisor to investigator …
The Perfect Storm for Spring Pests: Why You’ll See More Bugs in May
Our House During an April downpour, a surplus of bugs in May is probably the last thing on your mind. However, you’re more likely to have more pest problems on your property after April showers than before. Wet, rainy climates are ideal environments for many insects because moisture supports their survival and growth throughout their …
Q&A with Pastor Tony Barber of Church on the Bluff
Church Leaders Each month, Birmingham Christian Family highlights a local church leader who is making a difference in our community. Church on the Bluff’s Pastor Tony Barber has been leading the Bluff Park congregation for nearly 20 years but felt the call to preach when he was just 12 years old. 1. What did your …
Called to Help Make Mission Trips Move Smoothly
Special Feature Whether its sending people on trips across the globe or gallivanting throughout the United States, Laura Heidt has spent more than 23 years helping make travel dreams come true. Owner and operator of LH Custom Travel Insurance Services, Heidt has spent her time considering the safety of her clients as they go on their own adventures. …
A Season of Sending at Still Waters Counseling and Education Center
Healthy Living Brought to you by: Community Partner Still Waters Counseling & Education Center, www.mystillwaters.org This spring, the first two development interns for Still Waters Counseling and Education Center will graduate from Samford University. Madeline Solis and Milly Criswell are leaving their internships with lessons and experience that they will carry with them into their …
Creating More Space for Life Change: The Foundry Farm
Mission Makers The Foundry Ministries recently received a $1 million Appalachian Regional Commission (ARC) grant to construct an 11,400 square foot multipurpose building at The Foundry Farm in Cullman County, Ala. The new building will enable The Foundry to expand its ability to serve individuals battling substance abuse toward lasting life change by increasing capacity …
A Bright Future at Big Oak Ranch
Miracle Moments Brought to you by: Community Partner Molly Maid of Birmingham, www.mollymaid.com/birmingham “For I know the plans I have for you,” declares the Lord, “plans to prosper you and not to harm you, plans to give you hope and a future.” Jeremiah 29:11 Big Oak Ranch provides children in need of a chance with solid, …
