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!
It starts with a sale on crayons in aisle five- and suddenly, we’re spiraling. Lunchboxes, carpool calendars, school forms, snack sign-ups, and the dreaded “parent portal login.” Back-to-school season: that magical time when excitement collides with exhaustion… usually by mid-August.
Whether you’re a parent, a teacher, or just someone trying to dodge the glue-stick display at Target, this season can stir up a storm of stress. And if we’re honest, most of us try to handle it all in our own strength- armed with color-coded planners and a prayer whispered between drop-offs. But here’s the truth: God never asked us to carry the full weight of this season alone. He offers something better. “Come to me, all of you who are weary and carry heavy burdens, and I will give you rest” (Matthew 11:28, NLT).
Rest? During back-to-school chaos? Is that even allowed? Yes. Yes, it is. But it may require releasing the pressure we put on ourselves. That Pinterest-perfect lunch? Your kid is trading it for someone’s fruit snacks anyway. The first-day photo with matching outfits? Wonderful- if it happens. But it’s not the benchmark for Godly parenting. The flawless classroom? Bonus points, not a Biblical mandate. God’s not grading your performance this semester… He’s offering peace in the midst of the mess. The same God who guided Moses through the wilderness can help you navigate supply lists, sleep schedules, and school-year stress.
So, what if this year, instead of striving for control, we practiced surrender? What if we paused long enough to pray before we planned? What if we let grace cover the gaps our energy can’t? And if the pressure is heavier than a few deep breaths and a verse can lift- let’s talk about it. Anxiety, burnout, mental overload- it’s okay to need support. God never called us to hustle our way to holiness. He calls us to walk with Him- even through the school pickup line.
Feeling the strain as the year ramps up? You’re not alone. Reach out to schedule a counseling session and discover how to move forward with peace, purpose, and maybe even a little laughter.
In the video below, Dr. Jerra Dooley talks about practical steps you can take to walk in peace during the back-to-school season.
Bay’s first few days of school were usually smooth sailing. She marched confidently into kindergarten and even more proudly into first grade, plastic purse slung over her shoulder beside her mismatched backpack. Her smile beamed, and she strutted up the sidewalk like she owned the school. As she marched from the truck toward the school, she’d often collect a group of little girls around her, buzzing like bees around a hive, and they’d all pour through the school doors together.
Walt and Hannah Merrell are seen here with their daughter Bay at her graduation from Ole Miss. Bay will head to Charleston this fall to attend grad school at the College of Charleston.
Each morning, we’d ride 20 minutes to school- just the two of us. It started as a convenience- her school was near my office- but it quickly became sacred. We talked, laughed, sang, and bonded. I played the music of my childhood and beyond from a scratched-up first-generation iPod. She learned every word to “Brown Eyed Girl,” belted out “Cheeseburger in Paradise,” and loved the Crabb Family. But our song- the one that belonged to just us- was Rod Stewart’s “Have I Told You Lately.” I’d sing it to her at night, and in the mornings, we’d hold hands and sing it in the truck, off-key and full-hearted. She knew the words were more than lyrics. They were love.
Then came second grade. Our pediatrician once told us that deep-thinking children come to understand the reality of evil in the world somewhere between second and fourth grade. For Bay, that awakening arrived quietly, then suddenly. One morning on the ride to school, she didn’t seem herself. Her hand squeezed mine a little tighter as we drove toward town. She didn’t sing, not even to the “good songs.” When I asked if she was okay, she said, “I’m fine”- her two-word distress call I now know too well. As we inched forward in the school drop-off line, she grew more anxious. When we reached the front, she whispered, “Daddy, I don’t want to go. Let me come to work with you. Please?” Her hands cupped mine, and her eyes pleaded. I froze. I knew I needed to make her go… for to do otherwise would promote anxiety for the morrow. But as her ‘deddy,’ I wanted to fix whatever hurt she had and avoid more of the same. Seeing my conflict, a kind teacher gently coaxed her out, saying, “It’s okay, Dad. I’ve got her.” But I’ll never forget the way she looked at me as the door shut- eyes locked on mine, hand reaching. She cried all the way to the school doors, her neck craning back to watch me drive off. I cried all the way to work.
Walt and Hannah traveled to Ole Miss for game day fun with Bay.
That scenario played out for weeks. Her pleas turned sharper. “Why won’t you let me stay with you?” “Why are you leaving me?” Her tears tore me up. And every time I had to drive away, I did so with a heavy heart, praying I hadn’t failed her. I told my wife, Hannah, I didn’t know how much longer I could take it. She reassured me- ‘You’re doing the right thing’- but it still hurt. And she was right. Thankfully, Bay did work through this bout of separation anxiety. And she grew. In fact, her strength blossomed. And I soon realized the best thing I could do was let her face the hard things of life, while trusting the One who walks beside her. For even in my absence, He is with her.
Now, years later, as I type this, Bay is preparing to leave home again to attend graduate school at the College of Charleston and all I can do is hum Rod Stewart and remember. “Have I told you lately that I love you…” I used to think those tearful school mornings were some of the hardest days I’d ever experienced. I was wrong. Letting her go now- watching her become her own lion, brave and bold- this is harder. But I know she’s ready. I am reminded that He goes with her… and He tells her every day that He loves her. I suppose, in truth, my prayer now is more about me being ready… and I pray that I am. “Be strong and courageous. Do not be afraid or discouraged, for the Lord your God will be with you wherever you go.” Joshua 1:9
-Walt Merrell
A Christian Outdoorsman who writes of his adventures with his family, with the hope that others might be inspired and encouraged to embrace God’s tapestry, otherwise known as the great outdoors, as a means of finding Common Ground. You can follow him at Shepherding Outdoors on FB, YT and IG and at shepherdingoutdoors.com. His most recent book is available at shepherdingbook.com. Read his faith story at www.BirminghamChristian.com.
TO SAY THANK YOU for reading and supporting the businesses and organizations that advertise with Birmingham Christian Family(BCF) and make spreading Good News possible we have TWO Great Giveaways this month.
#1 A Family Four Packs of tickets to Alabama Adventure Amusement Park & Splash Adventure Water Park
To enter, simply LIKE and COMMENT on the Giveaway Post on Birmingham Christian Family’s Instagram @cfpbirmingham.
Offer ends Tuesday 8/12/25. Winner announced 8/13/25 on Instagram so be sure to FOLLOW our page @cfpbirmingham.
#2 Two Winners! Each receive a $25 Gift Card to Henrietta’s Deli in Trussville- home of Chef John Finney who will be on stage at the Celebrate the Family Expo Saturday September 13, 2025. Click here for more details.
Offer ends Tuesday 8/26/25. Winners announced 8/27/25 on the Facebook Giveaway Post. So be sure to FOLLOW our Facebook page.
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