A fashion-conscious crowd waits to cross a busy street during a downpour. Their umbrellas dance against the backdrop of fog-draped buildings like a mosaic of mushrooms in a misty forest. Then, out of nowhere, a cab splashes through a puddle, drenching the unsuspecting group. Similar to merciless cab drivers in rainstorms, life sometimes brings a torrent of challenges into a marriage—a job loss, depression, debilitating sickness, or worse. Is it possible to minimize the stress of gloomy surprises? Here are two strategies couples can use to prepare for rainy days in marriage.
1. Learn from the Ant. Proverbs 30:25 describes ants as “creatures of little strength, yet they store up their food in the summer.” Like the far-sighted ant, astute couples anticipate hazards to marital harmony and prepare accordingly. Try this simple exercise, though it may seem awkward at first.
Discuss undesirable situations that could occur in your marriage or family
Seek the Lord’s wisdom as you review your list (James 1:5)
Create a plan of action for each scenario
While many of your what-ifs may never come to pass, planning for unfavorable events creates an emotional insurance policy against the unexpected.
2. Watch for Early Warnings. People who live in storm-prone regions spring into action when tornado sirens crescendo to ear-piercing decibels. The ominous warning is disturbing for some people and annoying to others, yet it helps save lives. In marriage, signs of trouble may not be as jolting as an alarm. Often, spouses conceal their inner struggles from their partners for months or years. Can you tell when things are not quite right with your spouse? Attentive couples do the following for each other:
Learn intimate details about tendencies, ambitions, likes, and dislikes
Recognize subtle changes in behavior, appetite, and habits
Discuss observations without accusations
Pray with and for one another daily
Proverbs 22:3 advises, “The prudent see danger and take refuge, but the simple keep going and pay the penalty.” Wise couples can avoid needless suffering when they address marital threats before they arrive or before circumstances worsen.
All marriages experience stormy weather from time to time. What separates strong unions from struggling ones is the level of preparedness. Only God knows your marriage forecast. So, seek His guidance when life is sunny, and when storm clouds come, you won’t get caught without an umbrella.
-Dr. Alonza Jones
Teacher, Writer, Speaker
President and Co-founder, Biblical Marriage Institute
You’re invited to join Sav-A-Life Shelby on September 26, 2025 for a powerful night of celebrating the lives of women and children who have been impacted through the ministry. The theme for this year’s Gala is “Look at Us Now.” The night will feature previous clients who will share their stories of hope and life and much more.
Hear from Steventhen Holland during the Look at Us Now Gala on September 26, 2025. He is a national pro-life speaker, worship leader, and the founder of Broken Not Dead Ministries.
About Sav-A-Life Shelby. Executive Director Bobby Lewis explains that the mission of Sav-A-Life Shelby is “to develop a culture of life where abortion is unnecessary and undesirable in Shelby County while offering the hope of the Gospel.” This mission is implemented daily by Sav-A-Life’s two Women First Pregnancy Centers, located in Pelham and Chelsea. Since becoming the Executive Director, Lewis shares that “one of the biggest things I’ve learned is that it’s not just an organization that helps women say yes to carrying their baby. Because we go beyond that and help them after the baby is born.” The ministry offers several parenting classes that clients can attend. They can then earn points that can be used to shop at the Earn While You Learn Boutique. “We do this for two years after the baby is born,” Lewis explains. During his time as Executive Director, Lewis shares that he has witnessed many miraculous stories. “Ladies have come in particularly for an abortion, and then after they take the pregnancy test and meet with our Peer Counselor… they decide to carry their baby.”
The Gala will begin with a punch reception at 6 p.m. Enjoy a powerful night of encouragement and celebration. Reserve your seat at www.shelbygala.org.
Look at Us Now. The Look at Us Now Gala will be held at the Marriott Birmingham on Highway 280. The event begins at 6 p.m. with a Punch Reception followed by the Gala at 7 p.m. What can you expect? “An unforgettable evening including a delicious meal, live entertainment, and a joyful, hope filled atmosphere. We will celebrate 40 years of life-changing ministry through Sav-A-Life Shelby,” Lewis shares. Steventhen Holland will be this year’s keynote speaker. “He is a powerful voice for life and has a remarkable story of redemption that will stir hearts,” Lewis says. The Gala is free to attend, but reservations are required. Visit www.shelbygala.org to reserve your seat.
How to Get Involved. There are many ways you can help Sav-A-Life Shelby impact more lives. Lewis shares that they are always looking for volunteers. You can also donate items such as diapers, wipes, and infant clothing in addition to monetary donations. Visit www.savalifeshelby.org to learn more. Plus, meet the Sav-A-Life Shelby team at the Celebrate the Family Expo on September 13, 2025.
-Melissa Armstrong
Brought to you by: Community Partner, Sawyer Solutions Technology with Care and Compassion • Outsourced I.T. Support • Cyber Security • Help Desk Solutions www.sawyersolutionsllc.com 844-448-7767
Coming this September from Texas author Nancy Lavo is Heart and Soul, the highly anticipated fourth book in the beloved Lone Star Loves series. Set in the charming fictional town of Village Green, this light Southern romance invites readers into a story of second chances, deep reflection, and unexpected love.
Click here to learn more about Heart and Soul by Nancy Lavo.
Noah Speers is on the fast track to become the next senior pastor of one of the largest churches in the South- until he’s abruptly sent to the tiny town of Village Green to assist the elderly local pastor. Frustrated by the seeming stall in his career and questioning his future, Noah finds himself searching for meaning beyond the pulpit.
Enter Dr. Emily Cutler, a newcomer to town with a successful medical practice and a quiet strength. Known for her intelligence and kindness- though rarely for her appearance- Emily is caught off guard when the charismatic celebrity pastor begins spending time with her. While she assumes their budding friendship is temporary, she’s drawn to Noah’s honesty and vulnerability.
As they navigate their individual callings, their connection deepens. Noah begins to question whether the platform he once craved is really God’s plan for him, and Emily must confront insecurities and long-held doubts about her worth. Together, they face difficult choices, unexpected opportunities, and the delicate dance of listening for God’s direction amid life’s noise.
Lavo’s signature blend of warmth, wit, and spiritual insight shines in this gentle romance about finding your place, following your purpose, and opening your heart- even when it feels risky. Perfect for fans of clean romance and small-town charm, Heart and Soul offers readers encouragement and joy wrapped in an engaging love story. Heart and Soul releases September 16, 2025 from Iron Stream Fiction. Preorder now wherever books are sold and fall in love with Village Green all over again. †
1 Thessalonians 5:18 says to “give thanks in all circumstances; for this is God’s will for you in Christ Jesus.” Being thankful means expressing gratitude, having a sense of appreciation, and acknowledging a benefit received or blessing. An attitude of gratitude is personal, positive, powerful, and leads to praise.
Personal. Thanksgiving must be individually expressed. It is not something someone else can do for you. There are three factors for thanksgiving to be complete:
Something to be grateful for
Someone to give thanks to
The act of giving thanks
Positive. Being thankful is extremely positive and optimistic. You can’t be negative and thankful at the same time. Try it, you can’t!
Powerful. Being thankful encourages:
Honesty- Reflecting that life is not all bad- the good outweighs the bad.
Humility- Realizing I can’t take credit for the blessings.
Healthy- Being positive, hopeful, and optimistic contributes to better health.
Happy- a grateful heart leads to a satisfied soul.
Holy- When you are thanking God for His blessings, your focus is on Him.
Leads to Praise. Gratitude to God paves the way for praise, and praise opens the door for worship.
Be encouraged to express appreciation and gratitude to God for His provision, protection, and blessing in all circumstances.
When I left Big Oak Ranch, I was in ninth grade with big dreams of finishing up high school and, later, attending college. However, during my senior year, I was blessed, but quite surprised, to find out that I was pregnant. It felt like my future took a sudden detour, but I was determined to keep moving forward.
Christian is seen here holding her diploma while wearing her “First Generation” stole.
I proudly walked across the field and graduated high school, five months pregnant. My daughter, Addison, arrived in August 2008, which meant I had to postpone starting college until the spring semester of 2009. I enrolled at Southern Union State Community College on a Pell Grant, but like many students, I didn’t take my time there as seriously as I should have. My youngest daughter, Chloey, was born in 2011, and I faced a difficult decision regarding my education. As a single mother without support, I needed to work and care for my children, which meant I had to put my schooling on hold and give up my dream of earning a degree.
Christian and her family celebrating her graduation from Auburn University at Montgomery.
In 2019, I met my very best friend and soulmate. Jaiton and I married in 2021 and started our lives as a family of six. Jaiton encouraged me to start back school, so I eagerly started the process. I was accepted to Auburn University at Montgomery (AUM) and started my journey toward my degree. The week before graduation, I had a stole made for my ceremony that proudly declared, “First Generation.” When Addison asked me what it meant, I explained, “I’m a first-generation student so that you don’t have to be.” She smiled, but I don’t think she fully grasped the weight of what I was saying. On May 10, 2025, I graduated AUM with my bachelor’s in communication with a focus on public relations. I did more than graduate that day. I looked up and said “Thank you, God, for my blessing. Thank you for carrying me so many times. Thank you for allowing me to defeat my Goliath.” You know that cliché saying, “If I can do it, anyone can do it”? It really rings true in my life. I’ve faced many challenges, and I’m here to tell you that no matter where you start or what obstacles you face, you can achieve your dreams. Do not let your past control your future.
Every child is uniquely gifted by God, with talents and abilities that can be used to serve others and bring glory to His name. As parents, one of the most meaningful ways to nurture their spiritual development is by supporting and encouraging their unique spiritual gifts. When we help our children identify their spiritual gifts and begin to see God at work in their own lives, we can help them to “fan into flame” (2 Timothy 1:6 ESV) the gifts that God has given them.
Look for the Expression of Gifts in Everyday Life. Sometimes, spiritual gifts can seem quite ordinary, such as kindness, leadership, mercy, faith, and discernment. Observe your child’s interests, passions, and natural inclinations. Does your child show a heart for helping others? Are they drawn to activities that involve caring for or teaching others? These can be clues to their spiritual gifts in action.
Talk to Your Children About Their Talents and Passions. Encourage open conversations about their talents and spiritual passions. Ask questions such as, “What do you enjoy doing for others?” or “What makes you feel close to God?” Listening carefully shows that you value their feelings and insights. Affirm their efforts and remind them that God has created each of us with unique gifts that are meant to be used for His purposes.
Provide Opportunities for Your Children to Use Their Spiritual Gifts. Using our gifts is the best way to see how God has wired us. Sign your children up for service projects, church ministries, or community outreach activities tailored to their abilities. Whether it’s helping with children’s church, volunteering at a food bank, or participating in a mission trip, these experiences help children develop confidence and understand how their gifts can make a difference.
Encourage Your Children and Celebrate God’s Work Through Their Lives. Praise and encouragement are vital. Celebrate your children’s efforts and remind them that their gifts are purposeful in God’s kingdom. Affirmations like “God has given you a special gift for kindness” or “Your leadership can inspire others” reinforce their identity in Christ.
Model Using Your Spiritual Gifts. Your children are watching you as a model of faith. Let your children see you serving others, praying for discernment, or demonstrating kindness in your daily life. When they observe you actively living out your faith, they are inspired to do the same.
God has gifted all His church, including the youngest members, to serve Him by using their spiritual gifts. Parents have an excellent opportunity to help their kids understand their gifts and employ them in the service of Jesus and His kingdom.
-Dr. Ben Birdsong
Director of European Expansion for First Priority Global Ministries
In addition to the ALFA Farmers Celebrity Chef Stage, there is even more fun to enjoy at the 6th Annual Celebrate the Family Expo. All of the fun takes place rain or shine from 10 a.m. – 2 p.m. on September 13, 2025 at the Finley Center, Hoover Met Complex. The Expo highlights the importance of family and provides an array of activities for kids and adults, exhibits, resources, live music, cooking demos, product samples, food trucks and many freebies for the entire family.
For adults, there will be many resources and vendors at the event plus free giveaways and swag bags for the first 200 families. Swag bags will be filled with different novelty items from participating sponsors.
For children, there will be many free activities provided by River of Life Church including inflatables and games. Plus, opportunities to meet special mascot guests like the Chick-fil-A Herd, free face painting courtesy of Painted Personalities, and balloon twisting by Nunu’s Balloons.
Birmingham Christian Family owner Laurie Franklin says, “We’re happy to be celebrating the completion of 25 years of publishing Birmingham Christian Family magazine and living out our mission of spreading GOOD NEWS. The Expo is a great way for us to invite the entire community to celebrate with us as we share free resources to help them meet their physical, emotional and spiritual needs.”
We hope to see you at the Finley Center, Hoover Met Complex on September 13, 2025. For the most up to date details, visit www.BirminghamChristian.com/Expo!
Get ready to be inspired to grab your apron and cook! The Celebrate the Family Expo on September 13, 2025 will once again welcome Alabama chefs and food bloggers to take the stage and share cooking tips, tricks, and delicious samples on the ALFA Farmers Celebrity Chef Stage hosted by Janice Rogers of WBRC-TV. With eight different chefs and food bloggers sharing some of their favorite tried and true recipes, you will not want to miss one minute! Here is a sneak peek at the exciting lineup.
Schedule for the ALFA Farmers Celebrity Chef Stage
Annie McDaniel of Miss Annie’s Home + Kitchen will take the ALFA Farmers Celebrity Chef Stage at 10 a.m. McDanielhas been known as “Miss Annie” for more than 20 years to local elementary school kids, where she dresses in costume and encourages a love of science. She stumbled upon a new career online where she teaches her followers simple and easy recipes that cater to busy working families. Alongside her husband Darryl, they have been documenting the renovation journey of their century-old home in Alabama. Visit www.birminghamchristian.com/issues to read her faith story.
At 10:30 a.m., the ALFA Farmers Celebrity Chef Stage will welcome Sue Garrett of Mama Sue’s Southern Kitchen. With over one million followers across all of her social media platforms, Mama Sue (Garrett) is quickly becoming everyone’s “Southern Grandma.” She has captured hearts and kitchens with her warm, down-to-earth charm, and of course, her Southern accent. Known for her genuine love of cooking and the Lord, Mama Sue has authored four wonderful cookbooks that offer a treasure trove of Southern recipes passed down through generations. Her cooking videos often include heartfelt Bible verses that offer comfort and inspiration to her followers. These reflections are a testament to her faith and her desire to spread love and faith through her platform. At 72 years young, she is not only a celebrated cook but also a breast cancer survivor, inspiring countless individuals with her resilience and positivity. Married to her high school sweetheart, her life story is a testament to love, faith, and strength. Mama Sue will share more of her inspiring story in our upcoming September issue.
Katrina Adams is a celebrated food blogger, television personality, cookbook author, and Birmingham Christian Family (BCF) contributor who will be on the ALFA Farmers Celebrity Chef Stage at 11 a.m. Adams is known for her irresistible recipes, warm spirit, and signature culinary creativity. As the founder of KMarieKitchen.com, she has built a trusted platform where home cooks find flavorful inspiration, family traditions, and a fresh perspective on everyday meals. Her culinary journey began in her family’s kitchen, watching her mother master the art of cooking with love, intention, and soul. Inspired by those early memories, Adams carries that legacy forward, infusing every dish she creates with heart and heritage. She shares her love for cooking through engaging classes hosted in libraries across Jefferson and Shelby counties, where she encourages home cooks of all ages to experiment, taste, and enjoy the process. Her award-winning Cookie Butter Pie and Lemon Pound Cake have become Birmingham favorites, available at local Piggly Wiggly grocery stores and The Mercantile by Miller. In recognition of her culinary talent and dedication to home cooking, Katrina was recently welcomed into the Taste of Home Community as a Creative Cook, joining a national network of trusted kitchen voices. Adams lives by the motto: “A recipe isn’t a contract — so don’t be afraid to create your own.” This philosophy invites home cooks to explore their creativity, trust their instincts, and make every dish uniquely theirs. From blog to book, pantry to plate- Adams continues to stir up joy, one delicious bite at a time. See her latest BCF recipe here.
Debbie Alice Goldsmith is a mother, wife, entrepreneur, and co-owner of The Lil Bougie Foodie who will be on the ALFA Farmers Celebrity Chef Stage at 11:30 a.m. Goldsmith encountered a life-threatening illness in 2020 when she was diagnosed with a brain tumor and was given two years to live by local physicians. However, she was determined that this was not God’s plan for her life, and she sought medical help outside her resident state. She was able to find a brain surgeon in NY who performed the surgery on the partial resection of the brain tumor that prevented her from consuming meals and beverages. The surgeons successfully removed a portion of the tumor which gave her hope of living once again. She struggled through her recovery, returned home and opened her mobile food truck business with her husband- The Lil Bougie Foodie- in 2020. After launching her business in July, she never stopped believing in her success and remained steadfast to ensure the business would become successful. She uses her story to encourage her customers. She gives them hope through the strength and determination she exhibited during the most difficult period in her life. The Lil Bougie Foodie is known for its delicious menu items including burgers, wings, tacos, and more! Be sure to stop by the The Lil Bougie Foodie food truck during the Expo to try it for yourself!
At 12 p.m., author, social media sensation, and BCF contributor Danna Standridge will be on the ALFA Farmers Celebrity Chef Stage. Standridge is a Southern spark with a storyteller’s soul and a rolling pin in her hand. Whether she’s showing how to whip up biscuits or visiting with her 144,000+ Facebook followers (she calls them her FB family), or checking on the cows on Standridge Farm, Standridge blends warmth, wit, and creativity like a perfect Sunday supper. She’s the cookbook author Time to Eat, Y’all and Happiness is Homemade, Y’all, a culinary teacher with heart, and a hostess of heritage- where every dish tells a story, and every story comes with a smile. Equal parts charm and know-how, she makes you feel like family before the cornbread’s even done. Visit www.birminghamchristian.com/issues to read her faith story. We are also privileged to have her share a great story and recipe every month in the “Home Front” section of Birmingham Christian Family magazine. Click here for her latest.
Catch Hero Doughnuts Chef and Founder Wil Drake on the stage at 12:30 p.m. Drake studied nutrition at Birmingham’s Samford University and has worked as a barista, baker and cake decorator, hustled in a busy BBQ restaurant, flipped burgers, hosted pop-up dinners and spent time in Ireland studying the art of whole animal butchery. He started Hero Doughnuts as a pop-up shop selling his brioche style doughnuts at farmers markets and record stores before partnering with Pihakis Restaurant Group in 2017. The brand has grown from doughnuts to full breakfast plates, lunch specialties, coffee, shakes, and other treats served at eight locations in three states.
John Finney is a husband, father, chef, and owner of Henrietta’s Deli who will be on the ALFA Farmers Celebrity Chef Stage at 1 p.m. After many twists and turns, Finney made the decision to go to culinary school and was immediately immersed in school, recipes, books, and anything food-oriented. In his first year of school, he received the opportunity to stage at one of Frank Stitt’s restaurants. In 2015, Finney graduated with an associate’s degree in applied sciences. While working at Highlands, Finney was part of the staff that won the James Beard for Most Outstanding Restaurant in the United States. Six months after winning the award, he was asked to be the Chef de Cuisine of Chez FonFon. With everything he has learned during his culinary career, he felt it was time to venture out on his own. This dream became a reality when he opened Henrietta’s Deli in Trussville in January. The restaurant makes everything possible in-house, from deli meats, mayos, and everything in between. Finney’s goal is to make the best sandwiches with the best ingredients.
Chef Rose Ousley will take the ALFA Farmers Celebrity Chef Stage at 1:30 p.m. Chef Rose has been in the culinary arts field for almost 50 years and enjoys preparing wonderful meals, decorating cakes, and preparing delicious desserts. Cooking is her passion, and food is her love language! Chef Rose often appears on Talk of Alabama on ABC 33/40 as their guest chef. She is also one of the chefs at The Tower Prayer Church in Leeds and hosts bake sales throughout the year for the Leeds Jane Culbreth Library. One of her desires is to feed the whole world!
A new school year brings a mix of emotions. There’s the excitement of fresh routines, new teachers, and growing independence. But alongside the good, many kids also feel a steady undercurrent of worry. Anxiety often speaks in “what ifs” like: What if I don’t fit in? What if it’s too hard? These thoughts can sneak in and take up an unhelpful place in your child’s thought life.
Situational anxiety is more common than we realize- especially during times of change like the start of a new school year. It doesn’t mean something is terribly wrong with your child. Most of the time, it just means they’re seeing the risk as bigger than it really is- and forgetting not only how capable they are, but also that they don’t face it alone. They have strength within them and support beside them. Signs of anxiety often show up in subtle but persistent ways- tearfulness, restless sleep, irritability, or vague stomachaches with no clear cause. It’s tempting to brush them off as back-to-school jitters, but those symptoms are signals. When we pause to notice and respond, we’re giving our kids the message that what they feel matters- and that they don’t have to manage it alone. Kids don’t always have the words to explain what they’re thinking and feeling. What they need most is your calm, steady, and available presence to help them feel safe and understood. Creating space to talk is a powerful starting point. Instead of jumping in with solutions, ask, “What’s on your mind about going back to school?” Listen with curiosity, not correction. Let them know it’s okay to feel nervous and that you’re there no matter what. You can also anchor those conversations in Truth. Scripture reminds us: “When I am afraid, I put my trust in You” (Psalm 56:3). A short prayer before school or a note tucked into a lunchbox can go a long way. Just knowing that Mom or Dad is thinking of them brings comfort- and a verse can gently remind them of God’s steady presence too. If the anxiety lingers or interferes with daily life- trouble sleeping, avoiding activities, or frequent complaints- it may be time to seek more support. That’s not a failure or something to fear; it’s an invitation to walk together through what’s hard, with wisdom and grace. Back-to-school may bring stress, but it also invites resilience- one conversation, one prayer, one brave step at a time. Some days will go smoothly; others won’t. But your presence and steady support- not perfect answers- make all the difference.
Did you know ovarian cancer is the 5th deadliest cancer among women, accounting for more deaths than any other cancer of the female reproductive system? The American Cancer Society estimates that in 2025, about 22,000 women will be diagnosed with ovarian cancer and over 14,000 women will die from this disease.
Save the date for Together in Teal with the Norma Livingston Ovarian Cancer Foundation on September 14, 2o25 from 2:30 p.m. – 4:30 p.m. at Aldridge Gardens. Guests will enjoy live music, merchandise vendors, and the beautiful release of butterflies!
The signs and symptoms of ovarian cancer are vague or silent, and there is no simple or reliable screening. As a result, only 15% of women are currently diagnosed in the early stages of this disease which is when the five-year survival rate is at its highest. That is why the key to earlier diagnosis is awareness of the subtle signs and symptoms. As the disease progresses, symptoms may include pelvic pain, bloating, difficulty eating, fatigue, unexplained weight gain or weight loss, backaches, painful intercourse, nausea, menstrual abnormalities, and even changes in bowel habits.
The mission of the Norma Livingston Ovarian Cancer Foundation is to raise funds for ovarian cancer research and to increase awareness about the risks, symptoms, and treatments of the disease.
“Unfortunately, a simple and reliable screening method is not currently available for ovarian cancer. A pap smear does not screen for ovarian cancer,” says Ashley Thompson, Executive Director for the Norma Livingston Ovarian Cancer Foundation (NLOCF). “Paying attention to your body, knowing the signs and symptoms, and going to your annual gynecological exam are the best methods for early detection. A woman knows her body best and what is normal for them. If you notice any changes or abnormalities consistent with symptoms of ovarian cancer, contact your doctor right away for an exam.”
September is National Ovarian Cancer Awareness Month. Each September, NLOCF aims to increase understanding of the signs and symptoms of the disease and educate women on the importance of preventive care. On September 14, 2025, NLOCF will host the Together in Teal butterfly release. This event will raise awareness of the silent symptoms of ovarian cancer, remember those who have lost their lives, and honor those who are battling or have beaten ovarian cancer. Taking place at Aldridge Gardens from 2:30 p.m. – 4:30 p.m., the special event will feature live music, educational displays, merchandise vendors and an informative and moving program presented by ovarian cancer researchers and physicians. You will not want to miss the release of 400-600 painted lady and monarch butterflies! For more information about the event, visit www.cureovariancancer.org or contact Ashley Thompson, at [email protected] or 205-999-8021. †
Check out a fun recap of the 2024 Butterfly Release in the video below!
Get MORE Good News!
Join our Free E-newsletter packed with the latest family fun events, great recipes, inspiring stories, and all kinds of resources for you and your family.
-Dr. Alonza Jones
