Pressing Toward the Goal at Big Oak Ranch

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Simon family

Miracle Moments

Brought to you by: Molly Maid of Birmingham, www.mollymaid.com/birmingham

“Therefore if you have any encouragement from being united with Christ, if any comfort from his love, if any common sharing in the Spirit, if any tenderness and compassion, then make my joy complete by being like-minded, having the same love, being one in spirit and of one mind.” Philippians 2:1-2

Tyson & Abbie Simon
Tyson and Abbie Simon have served as houseparents with Big Oak Ranch for five years.

It was early in our marriage when we recognized we had a heart for serving children. Throughout our time working in youth and family ministry, we saw how the framework of a home can directly impact a child, and we wanted to be a part of providing one that works as a unit in the hope that children would one day replicate that unit. 

In searching for a way to serve in this capacity, our neighbors, who were volunteer resource parents at Big Oak Ranch, recommended houseparenting to us. We knew that was a door that only God could have opened – to be placed in an environment that fully reflects what is dear to our hearts. The community that Big Oak produces is what we value most. 

Simon family
To learn more about houseparenting with Big Oak Ranch, click here.

Every day, our children see a group of believers all working toward the same goal. They see that family can be such an important blessing and that joy can be found in who God has placed around us because we were not created to do this life alone. And on the most challenging days, through these friendships, God reminds us of His unwavering love – the kind of love that doesn’t relent or detach but seeks the opportunity to meet us right where we are. As houseparents, this is the example we have the honor of sharing with our children. There will always be things we don’t quite understand and difficult questions we can’t fully answer, but we find rest in knowing that our children are covered by God, and they first belong to Him.

-Tyson & Abbie Simon

Big Oak Boys’ Ranch Houseparents

Miracle Moments

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0624 You Can See Him

Best Books

In an uncertain world, children need God more than ever. In her latest book, You Can See Him, Little Eyes Looking at a Big God, Birmingham author Anna Nash, known affectionately as “Nanna Anna,” draws upon her extensive experience as an author, speaker, and teacher to address the challenge of conveying the complexities of faith to young minds. 

Anna Nash with grandchildren
Author Anna Nash loves to help people find God’s calling in life and spend time with her grandchildren. She is a life coach and the director of the non-profit ministry Beacon People.

Fueled by her own experiences as a grandmother and a lifelong fascination with children, Nash offers a captivating narrative that effortlessly intertwines simplicity with profound truths. Through vibrant illustrations by Birmingham artist, Jane Lazenby, and carefully crafted storytelling, You Can See Him not only introduces children to the wonders of God but also equips parents, educators, and caregivers with a valuable resource for fostering faith and curiosity in the next generation. 

Anna Nash and Jane Lazenby
Anna Nash is seen here with friend and book illustrator Jane Lazenby.

You Can See Him weaves together words and pictures in childlike language to help children see God through fresh eyes and tender hearts. The children’s book encourages readers to recognize God in relatable ways. While the book’s primary audience is children, its universal messages resonate with readers of all ages. Fifty pages of creative words and colorful pictures provide opportunities for both grownups and children to look and see God in magnified ways through the simple, personal everyday life of a child. You Can See Him launches June 1, 2024. For details on surrounding events such as book signings and children’s gatherings to celebrate, visit  www.annanash.net. †

 

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0624 12 ways

Best Books 

Embrace the Youthful Spirit at Any Age. As you face the mirror each day, do you meet an older version of yourself? It’s a familiar journey, one where we acknowledge that we’re not as young as we once were, yet not quite ready to embrace being old. But what if there was a way to traverse this path with grace and vitality?

12 Ways to Age Gracefully cover
12 Ways to Age Gracefully author Susan Neal is an RN with an MBA and MHS who combines her passion for health and her faith to guide others toward wellness. 

The good news is you can slow down time. By making the right choices, you can look and feel younger. You don’t have to spend a fortune on products either; simply learn and implement the tools needed to move gracefully and joyfully through your senior years. By making simple lifestyle changes, you’ll look and feel better. Discover how to choose vitality over disease; joy over depression; youthfulness over listlessness. 12 Ways to Age Gracefully will empower you to:

  • boost your energy levels,
  •  improve senior brain health,
  • learn how to feel better about yourself, 
  • develop better stress management, and
  • fulfill your God-appointed purpose with renewed vigor.

What path will you choose? Discover the secrets to not just feeling better but also looking fantastic as you do so! Visit shop.ironstreammedia.com to learn more. †

 

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father and son reading together

Parenting Points

Father’s Day is a special occasion to honor and celebrate fathers’ significant role in the lives of their children and families. Beyond providing for their physical needs, fathers serve as spiritual leaders and role models, guiding their children in faith and character development. 

Father as Spiritual Leader. Fathers are called to lead their families with wisdom, love, and integrity, serving as spiritual shepherds who point their children towards God. Through their words, actions, and example, fathers can instill faith, compassion, and forgiveness in their children, laying a solid foundation for their spiritual growth and development.

Father as Example. One of the most powerful ways fathers influence their children’s faith is through their example. When fathers prioritize their relationship with God, engage in prayer and scripture reading, and demonstrate love and kindness towards others, they set a powerful example for their children. These everyday acts of faithfulness leave a lasting impression on their children’s hearts and minds, shaping their understanding of God and His love for them.

Father as Nurturer of Spiritual Growth. Fathers have a unique opportunity to nurture their children’s spiritual growth by creating a home environment conducive to faith development. Whether through family devotions, meaningful conversations about faith, or attending church together, fathers can actively engage in their children’s spiritual journey, helping them grow in their relationship with God and understanding His word.

Father as Loving Leader. Above all, fathers are called to lead with love—a love that reflects the unconditional love of our Heavenly Father. Through their love and support, fathers provide a safe and nurturing environment where their children can flourish and grow in faith. They offer guidance, encouragement, and grace, embodying the love and compassion of Christ in their roles as fathers.

As we celebrate Father’s Day, let us take the time to honor and express gratitude for the fathers in our lives. Whether biological fathers, stepfathers, grandfathers, or spiritual father figures, let us recognize their invaluable contributions to our families and lives. 

Ben Birdsong-Dr. Ben Birdsong

Writer, Speaker, and Minister

www.benbirdsong.com 

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Couple sitting together

Special Feature

Were you ever convinced something was true only to discover you were mistaken? For instance, you wave at a friend. She ignores you. “She must be upset with me,” you assume. As you get closer, you realize it is not her. The Oxford Learner’s Dictionary defines assumption as “a belief or feeling that something is true or that something will happen, although there is no proof.” Couples may find themselves at odds when they jump to conclusions and make judgments before communicating with their spouse. When assumptions overtake a marriage, they create division rather than unity.

Speculation. Playing the guessing game may lead to intriguing clues. However, this approach can be flawed if it is based on opinions, not facts. This game produces:

  • Disappointment 
  • Closed-mindedness
  • Physical barriers
  • Resentment 
  • Heartache 

Assumptions can arise from day-to-day interactions. Ben is convinced Misty lost his car keys because she has a track record of being forgetful. Linda accuses Ray of eating the last slice of cake because she saw him peering into the refrigerator last night. Moments like these can be frustrating yet trivial.

Clarification. Whatever the context, assumptions can lead to confusion and conflict. Steven Covey writes, “We simply assume that the way we see things is the way they really are or the way they should be. And our attitudes and behaviors grow out of these assumptions.” Resist the temptation to resolve that your assumptions are true without proof. Rather, strive to understand the other person’s viewpoint. A reasonable strategy is to discuss matters with an open mind. Ask questions. Avoid jumping to conclusions. Realize you could be mistaken and admit when you are wrong. Share your concerns with respect and seek clarity. John 7:51 states, “Does our law condemn a man without first hearing him to find out what he has been doing?” 

Avoiding assumptions means giving your spouse the benefit of the doubt, though circumstances seem to confirm your unproven suspicions. It means asking “what” questions rather than “why” questions. Assuming can trigger bad feelings and distrust. More importantly, it can ruin your marriage. Expect the best and get the complete story first. James 1:19 says, “Everyone should be quick to listen, slow to speak, and slow to become angry.” Imagine all the blessings your marriage will have when you trust, love, and respect each other. Your reward will be peace of mind and contentment.

-Vanessa M. Jones

Vice President & Co-founder of Biblical Marriage Institute

BiblicalMarriageInstitute.org

@biblicalmarriageinstitute

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June 2024 Giveaways

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 Family Four Packs of tickets to Alabama Adventure Amusement Park & Splash Adventure Water Park.

Enter on both Facebook & Instagram to double your chances!   

Ala Splash FEATUREInstagram. To enter, simply LIKE and COMMENT on the Giveaway Post on Birmingham Christian Family’s Instagram @cfpbirmingham. 

For EXTRA ENTRIES:

Facebook. To enter simply LIKE and COMMENT on the Giveaway Post on Birmingham Christian Family’s Facebook @Birmingham Christian Family. 

For EXTRA ENTRIES:

Offers end Thursday 6/20/24. Winners announced 6/21/24 on Instagram and Facebook so be sure to FOLLOW our Instagram @cfpbirmingham and Facebook @BirminghamChristianFamily pages.

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Steve and Becky Webster

Publisher’s Note

Back in 2002, the late Steve Webster found a recipe in Birmingham Christian Family that led to what his wife Becky describes as one of his many “random acts of kindness.” You see, back then Becky was working very hard balancing a career as a pediatrician and being a mom to three young children. Steve had been in a serious accident and for an extended period of time was limited in what he could do to help out, but he did even while recuperating. One evening after Becky had had a very long day at work, Steve surprised her with a special cake- a Chocolate Covered Cherry Cake. He’d cut out the recipe for the cake from the February 2002 issue of Birmingham Christian Family magazine and told her he decided it was “just what she needed.” The family enjoyed the cake so much it became a tradition to have it at all kinds of family celebrations including birthdays. “My kids don’t like chocolate covered cherries, but they love this cake,” exclaims Becky. “The only change we made was to double the delicious frosting!” 

Chocolate Covered Cherry Cake in 2002 magazine
Find the recipe here along with several other recipes for sweet treats.
Steve and Becky Webster
A recipe Steve Webster found in Birmingham Christian Family more than 20 years ago, led to an act of kindness his wife Becky will always treasure.

After Steve passed away several years ago, Becky’s daughter Whitney helped her update her kitchen. While going through a pile of papers, they discovered the Chocolate Covered Cherry Cake recipe Steve had cut out of the magazine. The family had long since memorized the recipe and no longer needed a copy to mix it up, but Whitney decided it was worth keeping. She put it in a frame for Becky to enjoy as a memory of how Steve Webster lived his life loving his family.

Becky shared this story with me when I spoke recently in Trussville on the topic of  “Communicating for Christ.” She explained how Steve lived that out in so many ways- including his Chocolate Covered Cherry Cakes. I’m reminded of what Mother Teresa once said, “Not all of us can do great things but we can do small things with great love.”

Laurie Stroud Franklin-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 24 Years of Good News!

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bigstock Young mother applying protecti 294941008

Healthy Living

Community Partner Badge 24 YearsBrought to you by: Community Partner Compact, compact2020.com

Summer is here and that means fun in the sun! Whether your favorite summer activity is swimming, hiking, playing in the sand at the beach, or more, staying healthy and safe in the Alabama summer heat is the goal. While you and your family are enjoying increased time outdoors, there are some safety tips you should implement to keep everyone safe, healthy and enjoying the summer days. Here are four safety tips: 

Boy drinking water1. When outside, make sure to stay hydrated.

2. Use sunscreen to protect yourself from the sun.

3. When swimming, make sure to never swim alone and take proper breaks to avoid fatigue.

4. When traveling the roads this summer, be mindful of increased traffic.

Let’s take a closer look at the importance of safety tips one and two. Whether you are vacationing or enjoying outside activities, focus on staying hydrated in the summer heat. Dehydration and heat stroke can happen quickly and without warning. Left untreated, these can lead to major health problems. 

Sunburns can quickly put a damper on summer fun. Did you know repeated sunburns can increase the risk of skin cancer? Make sure to apply sunscreen before any outdoor activities you have planned. If you will be outside for an extended period of time, be sure to reapply often. Remember, you should always take breaks from the sun and find a nice cool shade to enjoy. 

To read other articles like this one, visit www.BirminghamChristian.com/COMPACT. †

Did you know COMPACT offers free prevention, intervention, and education for Shelby County students and parents on difficult topics and issues like substance misuse, truancy, behavioral issues, and more? Click to fill out a referral form.

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Jefferson's Food

Special Feature

Whether you are looking for a family friendly restaurant to visit or a space to host a reunion or party, Jefferson’s Hoover, is a great local option. Restaurant Manager Lauren Grisham explains that they like to describe Jefferson’s as a family friendly sports restaurant. “Our focus is a fun, family-friendly environment with food that everyone craves. We’re the place that will please the whole family when mom stops on her way home from work,” Grisham says adding that kids eat free on Sundays.

Lauren Grisham
Restaurant manager Lauren Grisham enjoys continuing the family legacy at Jefferson’s, which is located at 4524 Southlake Parkway Suite 20, Hoover, 35244.

The very first Jefferson’s opened in Jacksonville, Ala. in 1991. Soon after Grisham’s father, Glynn, opened several other Jefferson’s locations and purchased the Hoover franchise in 2020. Grisham attended Jacksonville State University (JSU) and spent many hours in the original Jefferson’s location. “My family owns the Hoover restaurant and I operate it. I never thought when I was attending JSU and eating at Jefferson’s all the time, my life would be Jefferson’s. But here we are,” Grisham reflects. Since the restaurant is family-owned and operated, there is a big focus on being a family destination. With a large menu, there is something for everyone in the family to enjoy. “We’re known for our wings and oysters, but our chicken tenders also have a fanbase of their own,” Grisham shares. Also available are burgers, salads, wraps, seafood, sandwiches, and more. She adds that their burgers are hand-pattied every morning, and the chicken tenders and shrimp are hand-breaded. “Our food is noticeably fresh and never frozen.” Grisham emphasizes that the Jefferson’s team realizes that everyone has a busy schedule and that they strive to give customers fast and friendly service. “People don’t have a lot of time. Everybody’s on a schedule and we strive to get our lunch out in 20 minutes or less.”

Jefferson's food options
Pictured here are just a few of the menu options available at Jefferson’s in Hoover. To browse their full menu, visit www.jeffersons.com/hoover.

In addition to a spacious dining room, Jefferson’s also has a separate room to accommodate larger groups. “Our party room can be used for events, graduation parties, birthday parties, showers, engagement parties, class reunions, and more,” Grisham explains adding that “the event room is free to use but we ask that you eat with Jefferson’s.” The restaurant also has a large catering menu. Food can be catered in the party room, delivered off-site or ready for you to pick up to take with you. “We know that people are entertaining larger groups these days. Even if you’re hosting at home, Jefferson’s can help out with the cooking so you can focus on enjoying your company.” If you want to dine in, grab a meal to go, or host a gathering, Jefferson’s is ready to serve you. Located off Valleydale Road in Hoover, the restaurant is open daily from 10:30 a.m. – 9 p.m. To learn more, visit www.jeffersons.com/hoover.

Watch the video below to learn about the history of Jefferson’s and more.

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Washington Hall at American Village

A select group of high school students from around Alabama will learn more about leadership, civics, and U.S. history during the Trojan Patriot Academy this summer, presented by Troy University and American Village.

This five-night camp, set for June 9-14, 2024, is designed to expose students to leadership practices and ideals through the lens of the Founding Fathers. Participants will spend the first two days at the beautiful Troy University campus in Troy, learning about servant leadership, followed by a trip to Montgomery to meet state leaders, tour the statehouse, and learn about Civil Rights during a stop at the Rosa Parks Museum.

American Village and Troy UniversityThe camp will end with a stay at American Village in Montevallo, where students will take part in an immersive educational experience, getting a first-hand look at the leadership principles that shaped America’s founding. This unique experience will allow students to connect with other young leaders from around the state and grow as citizens ready to make a positive impact.

• Deadline to Apply: June 1, 2024
• Potential Scholarship Opportunities to Attend Troy University
• 20 Community Development Hours
• Selected Students May Participate Free of Charge (includes travel, lodging and meals)*

*participants must be dropped off at Troy University on Monday and picked up Friday at American Village

For more information, please contact Val Crofts, [email protected].

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