A Sneak Peek at the Fun in Store: Celebrate the Family Expo 2025

August 26, 2025 by Laurie Stroud

Special Feature

Grab your family and friends and join us for the 6th Annual Celebrate the Family Expo on Saturday, September 13, 2025 at the Hoover Metropolitan Complex’s Finley Center. Enjoy free family fun, great giveaways, and delicious food while you learn about resources that can help you and your family. Rain or shine this is an event you don’t want to miss. Here is a sneak peek at the fun in store!

Be one of the first 200 families at the Expo and receive a free swag bag filled with lots of handy novelty items, gift cards and coupons from participating sponsors.

Back by popular demand, the ALFA Farmers Celebrity Chef Stage will welcome eight Alabama chefs and food bloggers who will share cooking tips and tricks. A new culinary classic will take the stage every 30 minutes so you will not want to miss it! The incredible lineup includes Danna Standridge, Sue Garrett, Annie McDaniel, Katrina Adams, and more. Find more details here.

Kids Zone. Provided by River of Life Church, children at the Expo will enjoy fun inflatables, games and more! Painted Personalities will provide free face painting, plus balloon twisting courtesy nunu’s balloons from 10am-11am. There will also be many opportunities to meet special mascots including the Chick-fil-A Herd!

When you arrive at the event, you will receive a Birthday Bingo card. Every exhibitor booth will have a special stamp to fill in a square on your bingo card. Fill your card by visiting each booth and be entered to win great prizes!

Opportunity to Give Back. Help us fill the truck! Come to the Expo with gently used clothes, shoes, and household goods to place in Vapor Thrift Store Donation Truck parked at the event and receive a tax donation receipt. Your donations go directly to helping the most impoverished families in the world.

Kevin Derryberry will provide live praise and worship music for the 6th year in a row!

Play with some furry friends and consider adopting a pet from Two by Two Animal Rescue.

Come hungry! Several food trucks will be onsite at the Expo serving delicious food and treats including Lil Bougie Foodie and Southern Coffee and Waffles.

Come to shop! We have added some great merchandise vendors this year that offer unique gift ideas that support ministries and items your family can use at excellent prices.

Special thanks to our Celebrity Chef Stage Sponsor ALFA Farmers, Major Sponsors Children’s of Alabama and the Jimmie Hale Mission and Event Sponsors including Alabama Credit Union, Family Radio, LeafFilter Gutter Protection, and Vulcan Termite & Pest Control.

To find more exciting details about the Celebrate the Family Expo happening on September 13 from 10 a.m. – 2 p.m., visit www.birminghamchristian.com/expo! See you there! †

August 27, 2025August 26, 2025 by Laurie Stroud

Healthy Living

We’re thrilled to introduce a joyful new addition to our Fortify Christian Counseling family—Tara Vines, LPC-S, and her certified therapy dog, Ruthie! Together, this dynamic duo brings a warm and compassionate approach to child and family counseling that blends professional excellence with heart-centered care.

Tara Vines and Ruthie — Tara Vines, LPC-S, and her certified therapy dog, Ruthie are ready to help children process emotions and overcome challenges like anxiety, depression, grief, trauma, ADHD, and school-related struggles.

Tara Vines, LPC, brings more than 25 years of experience and a heart full of compassion to her work with children and families. With degrees from Auburn University and the University of Alabama at Birmingham, she has faithfully served young people in both local schools and the community, offering support through life’s highs and lows. Rooted in her Christian faith and grounded in evidence-based practices, Tara’s approach to counseling is as thoughtful as it is effective. “Kids need to feel safe, connected, and truly seen before they can grow,” she explains. That belief shapes her child-centered, creative counseling style where trust comes first and healing naturally follows.

One of the most beloved members of Tara’s team is Ruthie, a beautiful goldendoodle and certified therapy dog (Pet Partners). Ruthie’s calm and gentle nature puts children at ease and helps create a welcoming, supportive space. Together, Tara and Ruthie offer animal-assisted therapy, a proven method that uses the presence of trained animals to enhance emotional connection and reduce anxiety. Tara uses a blend of cognitive behavioral therapy (CBT) and expressive techniques like play therapy, art therapy, and walk-and-talk sessions, all tailored to fit each child’s unique needs. Her goal is not only to help children process emotions and overcome challenges like anxiety, depression, grief, trauma, ADHD, and school-related struggles—but also to guide parents in understanding their children’s behaviors and building stronger, more nurturing connections at home.

Equally important is Tara’s work with parents. She partners with moms and dads to help them understand their child’s behaviors and develop stronger, more nurturing relationships at home. Her goal is to help children grow in confidence, anchored in who God created them to be, and to empower parents to guide with insight and grace. Tara primarily works with children ages 4 to 13, but she also sees older teens and college-aged young adults on a case-by-case basis. Fortify has other counselors, male and female, who also work with children, teens, and adults. Tara and other licensed counselors are in-network with Blue Cross Blue Shield (BCBS) insurance.

At Fortify, we believe healing is a journey. With Tara and Ruthie, children have a guide who sees their hearts, honors their stories, and helps them flourish.You can meet Tara and Ruthie at the Celebrate the Family Expo on September 13, 2025 and learn more about this dynamic duo.

Watch the video below to learn more about Tara and Ruthie and how they can serve you!

FORTIFY Christian Counseling

205-974-2124

[email protected]

In person in Birmingham
Telehealth Everywhere Else!
For Men, Women, and Children of all Ages
ADHD Testing and Diagnosis
Licensed Counselors accept BCBS-AL

www.FortifyChristianCounseling.com

August 26, 2025 by Laurie Stroud

Healthy Living

In 2017, Margaret Anne Palmer was diagnosed with Wilms Tumor, a form of kidney cancer most commonly found in children. Her tumor was discovered by chance. When Margaret Anne was a baby, she had clogged tear ducts, which made her eyes look like they had pink eye. Doctors said they would place stents when she turned one to open the ducts.

On the day of the procedure, while she was in recovery, the family received a call from the doctors saying they were keeping her longer to monitor her blood pressure. After learning about this, her pediatrician, Kelly McMillian, MD, referred her to a nephrologist. The following day, the nephrologist’s office called to say two doctors had reviewed her case. When they arrived at the hospital, the radiologist told the family that they found a tumor on Margaret Anne’s right kidney and needed to do a CT scan to see if the cancer had spread. It had not. Margaret Anne underwent surgery for a total nephrectomy at Children’s of Alabama, performed by Elizabeth Beierle, MD. “We were fortunate that the tumor hadn’t spread, and she didn’t require chemotherapy or radiation,” added mother Natalie. “Margaret Anne had follow-up scans every three months, and then, after three years, the frequency was reduced to every six months.

But in July 2022, during a routine four-year oncology follow-up with Kimberly Whelan, MD, the radiologist once again came in with shocking news. She’d found another tumor, about the size of a golf ball, on her left kidney. This time, it was considered a second primary cancer, and Margaret Anne’s treatment would be more intensive. Within the week, she had a port placed, and chemotherapy began to shrink the tumor, which she named “Wilma.” She started kindergarten during this time, and despite the challenges, her spirit remained strong. After several rounds of chemotherapy, the tumor had shrunk enough for surgery. In September 2022, the surgeon removed part of her left kidney. “The tumor had been very close to a critical artery, and we were grateful that it was successfully removed. Margaret Anne lost much of her hair, and we had to make the difficult decision to shave her head,” said Natalie. “But with incredible courage, she stood up in front of her kindergarten class to explain why she had done it.”

Margaret Anne’s experience at Children’s was beyond incredible. Dr Beierle was so confident and compassionate about how she was going to approach each surgery. “As a mom and a nurse, my mind was racing with all of the worst possible thoughts. She took time and walked us through all options as well as providing us with the comfort that she had our child’s best interest as her priority too,” explained Natalie. “Dr. Whelan was also very thoughtful during the second diagnosis and let us know that despite Margaret Anne’s situation being unusual, she would make sure to consult with all of her colleagues to ensure we had the best plan moving forward.” Natalie added that Children’s has such an incredible outreach to the patients and families by providing healthcare, support and even the fun activities to help children have something to look forward to during their hospital stay. “I can’t imagine how our lives would have been impacted if we would not have had the privilege of Children’s so close and available. Margaret Anne has had the ability to participate in so many activities affiliated with Children’s of Alabama including Smile-A-Mile and UA Miracle Kids supporting Children’s Miracle Network Hospital.”

Despite everything she’s been through, Margaret Anne continues to shine. She loves cheerleading, tumbling, swimming, and spending time with her friends. The bigger the challenge, the more determined she becomes. She even enjoys reminding her older brother that she’s tough and can handle anything. “Margaret Anne is a strong, resilient girl who clearly has a bigger purpose,” added Natalie. “She continues to inspire those around her, and we’re so grateful to be part of such a wonderful community that provides hope and support to families facing similar challenges.” She hopes to one day cheer for the University of Alabama and become a healthcare professional to help other people.

-Children’s of Alabama

For more patient stories visit www.childrensal.org/child-of-childrens

September 5, 2025August 26, 2025 by Laurie Stroud

bigstock Young Man Having Counselling S 91399352

Healthy Living

Teal Dick, M. Div, LPC-S, is passionate about helping men heal from past pains and grow into stronger people through counseling. Teal brings nearly 30 years of counseling experience and provides a safe place where men can drop their masks and be honest about their struggles.

Real Issues. Teal explains that many men today experience shame, stress, confusion, and other mental health issues and private battles. However, many don’t seek help because of the stigma surrounding therapy. During his counseling sessions, Teal strives to meet his clients where they are and provide a safe space for them to be honest. “There are many different names people identify as today, but one of the baselines I try to get clients to is that they are a child of God,” Teal shares, adding, “Most people I see have forgotten that they are children of God and seek the mirrors outside themselves to fill the empty spaces. They sometimes become lost and disoriented in their living. My goal with clients is to help them remember their true identity and remember how to laugh and play.” Teal has experience treating issues including stress and anxiety, depression, addiction, relationship issues, and family conflicts.

Real Hope. Teal provides therapy by telehealth throughout Alabama. He explains that he believes it’s very important for his clients to get to know him and ask him questions to see if they are a good fit. He appreciates telehealth counseling sessions because they can save time for clients with busy schedules since they don’t travel to an office but instead hop on a Zoom call in the comfort of their home or office. The Still Waters Counseling team is a group of licensed professional therapists, including Teal Dick, who offer Christian counseling for those seeking a faith-integrated approach. Their goal is to make each person who comes to them to feel safe, valued and supported. Still Waters Counseling offers therapy in-person in Mtn. Brook and Madison, Alabama and therapy via telehealth anywhere in Alabama. To learn more, visit www.mystillwaters.org or call 205-825-1423.

Watch the video below to learn more about Teal Dick and what therapy by telehealth looks like. †

August 26, 2025 by Laurie Stroud

Publisher’s Note

As we close out our 25th year of publishing, we invite you to come and celebrate with us at our 6th Annual Celebrate the Family Expo! Saturday September 13, 2025 at the Hoover Met Complex Finley Center. Enjoy fun, free activities from 10 a.m.-2 p.m. while browsing 50 plus exhibits where you will learn about resources right here in our community designed to help meet the spiritual, emotional and physical needs of the family. You’ll also have the opportunity to shop for unique gift items and enjoy a great lunch. See page 10 for a rundown of all the activities including our back by popular demand ALFA Farmers Celebrity Chef Stage featuring a different celebrated Alabama chef every thirty minutes. You can also visit BirminghamChristian.com/Expo for the most up to date schedule.

Special thanks to our Major Sponsors Children’s of Alabama and Jimmie Hale Mission, our Celebrity Chef Stage Sponsor ALFA Farmers and our Event Sponsors Alabama Credit Union, Family Radio, LeafFilter Gutter Protection and Vulcan Termite & Pest Control.

GIVEAWAYS. You don’t want to miss out on our Expo Giveaways! The first 200 families attending will receive an Expo Swag Bag full of novelty items, gift cards and coupons. All attendees will have the opportunity to play Birthday Bingo in Celebration of our 25 Years of spreading Good News. We will give away Bingo prizes throughout the event including gift cards, t-shirts, cases of Bud’s Best Cookies, and so much more.

We look forward to seeing you and your family as we Celebrate the Family & 25 Years of Free Good News!

-Laurie Franklin

Founder, The Christian Family Publication, Inc.

www.BirminghamChristian.com

Facebook: Birmingham Christian Family

Twitter: @cfpBirmingham

Instagram: @cfpbirmingham

Pinterest: @cfpbirmingham

LinkedIn: Birmingham Christian Family

Celebrating 25 Years of Good News!

July 25, 2025 by Laurie Stroud

The Family Pet

“When a stranger sojourns with you in your land, you shall not do him wrong.” Leviticus 19:33

He didn’t come trotting in with fanfare or pedigree papers. He showed up quietly on a stranger’s porch- wounded, weary, and very much in need of a miracle. He appeared like a four-legged wanderer from a Steinbeck novel. Somewhere along the way, this forlorn boy ran into hard times, likely attacked by other dogs, and he bore the wounds to prove it. His name? Sojourn. Because when the good Samaritan who found him went vet to vet, begging for help he couldn’t afford, it was clear this dog’s journey wasn’t meant to end there. He was a soul in transit, heading toward hope, and Two by Two Rescue didn’t hesitate to take him in.

Fast-forward a few months, and Sojourn’s now wearing a grin that says, “I made it!” A touch reserved, yet warm and friendly, he is always up for fun with doggy buddies and soaking up attention. This two-year-old gentleman is ready for snack negotiations, a spot on the couch with his name, and the quiet honor of being someone’s “good boy.” That position? It’s open. Sojourn’s not just hoping you’ll apply to adopt – he’s already saved you the seat beside him!

Two by Two is a faith based, no kill rescue whose mission is to give life to abandoned, abused, stray, and distressed animals. Saving animal lives for more than 20 years, Two by Two operates out of Birmingham, Ala., and has coordinated the rescue and adoption of cats, dogs, horses, and even a few pot-bellied pigs. Two by Two has placed dogs in almost forty states and even a few abroad! Come see us at the Celebrate the Family Expo on September 13, 2025. To learn more about Two by Two visit www.twobytworescue.com. †

August 12, 2025July 25, 2025 by Laurie Stroud

The Home Front

It’s been said that newlyweds and young married couples are “living on love” due to their abundance of love and lack of resources. My David and I have been married for 43 years, and we have truly done that, as I’m sure many of you have. It goes back to our young married days when we had two children and an unexpected change of careers for David.

Being high-school sweethearts, David and I married young. He had a wonderful job, and life was good. He operated a D-9 bulldozer at the coal mines, and I was taking a few classes at the local college while expecting our first child. Then, coal mining went bust, and the company shut down. That event started a winding path to a career change and a relocation for our small family. We now had a three-year-old daughter and a one-year-old son and found ourselves in Montgomery, Ala., with David attending the Montgomery Police Academy. And I must say, we were living on love and a very limited income. I was home with the children, taking care of the household and preparing meals, while David was in training for a new career. I am proud to say that this led to his successful and honorable twenty-one years in law enforcement. But there was a situation that arose where that almost didn’t happen.

David at his swearing in — He now serves in the Alabama House of Representatives, representing the 34th district.

David Standridge faithfully served in law enforcement for 21 years.

I have been told by many that I could “pinch a penny until Lincoln screamed.” This is what trained me to do that: One day, David came home from the Academy and said they had checked his vision, and he could not continue unless he got glasses. We were in a bind. I knew exactly how much I had to spend on groceries for the month to make our meager budget work. And buying his glasses meant that I had very little money for groceries- almost nothing. And we had two little ones to feed. We were too independent to let our family know about this. We were determined to see this through ourselves. I did some praying and figuring on our budget. And I told him, “Let’s go get the glasses. I know what to do.”

So, we went and spent all that grocery money on his glasses. Then, I went to the grocery store and bought the largest bag of potatoes I could find, along with a few other budget stretching necessities. David got paid once a month. So, our little family of four survived for a month on potatoes. Potatoes at every meal. Fried, baked, mashed- every meal. I can still remember the joy of going to the grocery store when that next paycheck came in. And I fixed us a feast that evening. My sweet three-year-old daughter looked at the table and said, “Momma, where are the potatoes?” And with a big smile, I said, “We don’t have to have them today, sweetie. We don’t have to have them.” It was a celebration as we tucked into that meal for sure. We had made it on love and a bag of potatoes. And I still thank the Good Lord for potatoes, perseverance…and love! Please enjoy our favorite potato recipe.

-Danna Standridge

Author of Happiness is Homemade Y’all!

Read her faith story at www.birminghamchristian.com/issues.

For speaking engagements and cooking demonstrations, email [email protected] Join her in the kitchen on @DannaSwannStandridge and @dannastandridge8749

Meet Danna at the Celebrate the Family Expo ALFA Farmers Celebrity Chef Stage at Noon on Saturday September 13, 2025 at the Hoover Met Finley Center.

Our Favorite Mashed Potatoes

Ingredients:

5 lbs potatoes, Yukons or russets

2 to 3 sticks of butter per your taste

1 cup heavy cream

Milk, as needed to thin out if they are too thick

1 cup sour cream

Salt and pepper to taste

Directions:

Wash, peel, and chop potatoes into similar size pieces. Place in a large pan on top of stove. Put enough water into the pan to cover potatoes by 1 inch. Add ½ Tablespoon salt to water. Bring to a boil, then simmer till potatoes are done and fork tender. Drain. Mash potatoes with a potato masher. Add 1 stick butter, heavy cream, sour cream, and salt and pepper. Continue mashing with a potato masher. Add milk in small increments and stir until correct consistency. Taste often and add butter, salt and pepper to taste.

July 25, 2025 by Laurie Stroud

Special Feature

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

Follow: @biblicalmarriageinstitute

August 6, 2025July 25, 2025 by Laurie Stroud

Mission Makers

Brought to you by: Community Partner Sawyer Solutions, www.sawyersolutionsllc.com

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.

Steventhen Holland photo — 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.”

Sav A Life Shelby Gala — 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

July 25, 2025 by Laurie Stroud

Best Books

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.

Heart and Soul Cover image — 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. †

A Sneak Peek at the Fun in Store: Celebrate the Family Expo 2025

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