My Passion Magazine issue 4 Vol.1

MY
PASSION
MAGAZINE
Cooking
Corner
Recipe Inside!
HENRY | FAYETTE | CLAYTON
Dr. Paulette Stewart
December 2015 - Issue 4 - Vol. 1
Cover and Featured Photos by Vitos St.Rose Photography

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| My Passion - Issue 4 - December 2015
MEDICAL CARE COMES HOME
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Resurgia’s visiting doctors deliver a high-touch approach to mobile medicine (not TeleMedicine) that is refreshingly
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Visit us at www.resurgia.com or Call 1-84House-Doc or email info@resurgia.com to learn more about
Resurgia House Calls Medical Practice and schedule an appointment with our visiting physicians.

My Passion - Issue 4 - December 2015 | 3
MY
PASSION
MAGAZINE
Page 5 Note from the Editor
Page 6 Merry Christmas - Ladies of Grace International
Page 7 Silent Night Holy Night –Connie Brown
Page 8 Anna – Dakota Jones
Page 9 ‘Tis the Season to be Jolly’ –Karla Dennis
Page 10 SSS Brigade Social Security Seniors
Page 11 The Importance of Prayer – Gwen Johnson
Page 12 My Christmas Guardian Angel – Sandra Shock
Page 13 Book Nook
Page 14 Motion Picture Geek – Robey Jones
Page 15 Treasure Seekers
Page 17 The Garden Spot - Poinsettia the Christmas Flower
Page 18 Cooking Corner
Page 20 The Light of the World
Page 22 I’m Dreaming of a White Christmas – Mary Lou Kehoe
Page 23 ‘Tis The Season for Networking’ – Chi Chi Okezie
Page 24 Baby Jack’s Story – Brittany Liberatore
Page 25 Mistletoe at Christmas
Page 26 Judi Cakes
Page 28 Wellness - Dawn Causey
Page 29 The Battle Is Not Yours - Mohammad Bolton
Page 30 Fayette County Christmas Events
Page 32 Henry County Christmas Events
Page 33 Clayton County Christmas Events
Editor-In-Chief/Founder: Dr. Paulette Stewart
Marketing Director: Dakota Jones
Creative Director/Designer: Vitos St. Rose
www.MyPassionMagazine.com
MPM is published quarterly and will focus on local writers, but because we have followers in all
parts of the world, you will be able to read articles that will focus on other cities, states, and nations.

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| My Passion - Issue 4 - December 2015

My Passion - Issue 4 - December 2015 | 5
Find Us: www.mypassionmagazine.com
Email: info@mypassionmagazine.com
Blog: http://drpaulettestewart.com/blog/
Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/mypassionmagazine
Dr. Paulette Stewart
From the Editor's desk:
It is that wonderful time of the year! It seems as
if the Holiday Season got here very fast this year.
Although, the older I get, the faster it comes.
I was reminiscing the other day of my childhood
“Christmas Days.” (Those were the days.) I tried
to remember my best and worst Christmas (that
is, as a child). Let me share with you those two
memories.
The “Best Christmas” ever for me was when I had
just turned six years old. (My birthday is two days
before Christmas – it could have been worst – it
could have been Christmas Day.) All I wanted
for Christmas was a drum set. Guess what, Santa
Claus somehow got that drum set down the chimney
(that we did not have). I was so excited. I
can still remember that it was red. It had a bass
drum, a little side drum, a cymbal, and most importantly,
a set of drums sticks. I was in heaven!
I was the most excited child that Christmas had
ever seen!
My “Worst Christmas” was when I was about
eight years old. I was such a ‘tom-boy’ (no dolls
for me). My two older sisters had bicycles, but
my brother and I did not. My mom took us to
downtown Atlanta (there were no shopping malls
at that time) to see Santa Claus. When it came
my turn to sit on his lap and tell him what I
wanted, I jumped up on his knee, and with all the
confidence in the world, I said, “I want a bicycle.”
Well, I had asked him; therefore, I just knew I
was going to get it. Christmas morning came
and there was only one bicycle – a red boy’s bike.
My brother promptly ran and got on the bike. I
looked around the tree, but no bike for
me. Boy, was I disappointed. I don’t even
remember what else I received. But very
quickly, my mom and dad said that the bike
was for both of us. Well now, I was really
happy because my brother and I were best
friends and we didn’t mind sharing. (I was
such a ‘tom-boy’ and I was glad that it was
a boy’s bike.) We road that bike all over the
place. We were still riding it even after the
handle-bars came off (don’t ask me how, but
we did).
Those were the days! There is just nothing
like family!
It all boils down to this……..Christmas is the
time we celebrate the Birth of Jesus Christ
and I love to celebrate His birth by celebrating
with my family.
Merry Christmas to all the readers of My
Passion Magazine. You have truly given me
a gift this year by supporting this magazine.
I thank you all.

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| My Passion - Issue 4 - December 2015
Ladies of Grace
INTERNATIONAL
Wishes you
a
Merry Christmas
touched with
Passion, Wonder
&
Love

Silent Night,
My Passion - Issue 4 - December 2015 | 7
Holy Night
Silent night, holy night! A very special baby boy was born
this blessed Christmas night!
I often wonder what the sounds and smells were like that
wondrous night at the manger! The stars were shining
bright, and one took on a heavenly illumination that only
a mighty God could have created. This celestial messenger
shone brighter than the fullest harvest moon and the hottest
desert sun combined.
The sheep, cows, and donkeys must have given the night air
a hint of a musty farm smell. The hay and the grass they
fed on most likely had a wonderful earthy and cozy scent.
The crickets and the night birds must have joined the heavenly
host and choir of angels in “Hosanna in the highest,
today our Savior is born.” Nature must have sung its own
sweet lullaby and praise for the little Baby Jesus. I am sure;
every flower bloomed brighter and smelled better. Every
fruit tasted sweeter and the aroma rose to heaven like a fine
heavenly perfume.
A peculiar group of multi-cultural wise men came to bring
gifts to the little baby. They brought spices, oils, ointments,
and gold that were the finest to be found on earth.
This aroma blended with all the other smells of the fruit
and flavors. The air filled with this sweet vapor and rose
up to Heaven as a praise to God for sending the Savior of
the world. The wise men and their multitude of servants
all came from different nations. They were every shade of
browns (light and dark), different traditions, and customs,
but they all had one common goal - to find this little baby.
They did not separate or segregate, but together, they
achieved what they set out to do! They found this special
child and joined each other in praising him as their Savior,
as their King!
The Christmas feast of a multi-cultural family and circle
of friends reminds me of this special day! Flavors and spices
from all over the world from their native lands come
together on this special day. A typical meal at our
house may be turkey, ham, sweet potatoes with greens
(made the African/American Southern style), and I
will bake German/Bavarian Apple-strudel and make a
savory Sauerbraten. These dishes brings our multi-cultural
family together at the table as we celebrate the
birth of the one and only Savior for us all! Our different
shades and flavors create a similar atmosphere as
the three wise men from different corners of the earth
who came to honor the Christ child!
My entire family and I wish you a Merry Christmas
and a wonderful New Year! God bless all of you! This
special Christmas day Jesus was born to later die for
you and me. Yes indeed, He was born, lived, and died
for all of us every shade and flavor of humanity!
Love and peace always Cornelia Brown
Writer/Speaker/Entrepreneur
Advocate for the multi-cultural family and
friends, church, and workplace! To book or for
more information email me at www.cornelia.
brown@yahoo.com or go to my facebook page
All shades and flavors/Cornelia Brown

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| My Passion - Issue 4 - December 2015
Anna
by Dakota Jones
I have experienced two great loves
in my life; my wife first of all,
because if I didn’t mention her
she would kill me, and Anna. My
name is Greg Fitzgerald. I will be
discrete about my age, but will
hint that I’m old enough to receive
a social security check in the mail.
My memories of Anna though,
take place a long time ago, when
my hair wasn’t grey and it wasn’t
as hard to take every morning for
granted. I didn’t realize then that
we are only given so many of them.
Feature your book here today!
my dad holding a big yellow dog by
the collar. Mom was sneezing on the
couch, which we later found out was
due to a dander allergy. I was elated
with joy. My very own dog!
was a skinny northern boy that could
sink in a bathtub. In January, Anna followed
me to my neighbor’s house while
I shoveled snow from their back deck for
some extra money.They had a swimming
pool that had been frozen over for over
a month and appeared to be pretty safe
to walk across. I was in the water before
I took my fourth step onto the ice. The
neighbors’ pool wasn’t that deep, but
boy was it cold. I was frozen in fear and
cold as my head went under the water..
A second splash broke the ice, and I
hoped that my neighbors had seen me
through their window and were coming
to my rescue. But alas, it was my sloppy
wet dog. She somehow managed to push
me to the edge of the pool, and I was
able to pull myself out. We both spent
the next week in bed with the flu, but
we were alive.
I was twelve years old, and it was
my favorite time of year. Snow was
falling, the fireplace was roaring,
and football was live on the radio.
Christmas was in the air and Old
Saint Nick was on his way. I was
an only child, and my parents were
well off enough to spoil me rotten
for big events like Christmas and
birthdays. They usually bought me
model trains, cars, and airplanes.
The year before, I even got a bike!
One thing they couldn’t buy me
though, were friends.
I was a little bit more “reserved”
than the rest of the kids my age,
and because my dad was a part
of the U.S. Army, I had moved
into town from across the country
in the middle of the school year.
Needless to say, friends were slim
pickings for me. That is, until
Anna.
Anna had the biggest brown eyes, and
though there were many occasions that
my dad called her stupid for stealing
food off of the table or digging holes in
the garden, I knew she could see right
through me. Anna was the kind of dog
that walked me to the school bus everyday,
and returned later to walk me
back home. She slept at the foot of my
bed and kept all of the monsters out of
my room. She even saved my life on a
couple of occasions.
Anna was a Labrador retriever, a
natural born swimmer and athlete. I
Anna was not the first good dog this
kid ever had, but she was my best
friend. Because of her go lucky nature,
she enabled me to make friends with
other kids my age. She was always on
my heels, unless someone had food that
she could beg for. I later found out that
my parents had rescued her from the
pound where she would have been put
to sleep that Christmas morning so long
ago. Instead, she became the best gift a
twelve-year-old boy (without a friend)
could have received. It may have seemed
like we saved Anna’s life at first, but in
more ways than one, she saved mine.
I will never forget waking up on
Christmas morning and walking
out to the Christmas tree to find

‘Tis the Season to be
Jolly…
My Passion - Issue 4 - December 2015 | 9
Karla Dennis
It’s the Holiday season for 2015!! Are
you freaking out yet? Where did
this year go? As soon as September
comes, I am ready. I have my Fall
decorations out, I have my Halloween
decorations out, and my Christmas
décor is just waiting to be unleashed!
I love the holidays, but for you it may
be different. You might honestly say,
“I hate the holidays. There aren’t
enough carols or funny holiday movies
to make me jolly!”
Let’s take Halloween for instance;
what’s not to be jolly about a ton
of free candy?! Well, it’s not a jolly
holiday for the kids who can’t go, or
for the kids too sick to go. We can’t
leave out the problem of costumes.
When I was growing up we had to
make our costumes; nothing new and
flashy for us. Who wants to Trick
or Treat in some non-store bought
costume?
Then comes Thanksgiving; once
again, how can a holiday that celebrates
being thankful with a delicious
turkey dinner not be jolly? It’s not
jolly if this was the worst year you
ever had, or maybe you lost someone
close to you. It’s hard to celebrate
with dinner if you don’t have any
food.
Which brings us to Christmas: one of
the biggest holidays of the year. How
can you not be jolly spending time
with your family, giving and receiving
gifts? It’s not so jolly without family
or money to buy gifts. What a horrible
holiday for any kid who wakes
up with no gifts, or for you to wake
up and the person you love is not
with you.
While I truly believe that the holidays
are meant to be jolly, there is
just so much in life that seems to
dim or remove that joy for us. So,
how do we get it back or find the
jolliness again? I believe I have an
answer for you!
As a kid, there was one Christmas
that looked to be horrible. I remember
knowing, but not knowing, that
this Christmas was going to be different.
My parents didn’t have the
money to do Christmas like usual.
I will never forget the joy of waking
up and having presents under
the tree. Years later, we were told
that some families generously donated
presents to our family. I will
never forget that Christmas! I am
so thankful to the people who made
that holiday jolly. Which brings me
to my answer. When you are trying
to make the holidays jolly for others,
it somehow becomes jolly for you.
I love the holidays because of what
you can do for others. My life might
be a mess and there may not be
much to be happy about or worthy
of celebration, but that doesn’t mean
I can’t bring happiness and celebration
to others. I am never jollier during the
holiday season than when I am doing
for others.
So, maybe there is still hope for this
season, let’s make it jolly. For Halloween,
you can go to the children’s
hospital with treats; or on Thanksgiving,
you can provide dinner for a family
who can’t afford it; and for Christmas,
let’s buy gifts for kids and visit senior
citizens. Let’s get lost in doing for
others, because their joy will become
your joy!
‘Tis the season to be jolly…

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| My Passion - Issue 4 - December 2015
S.S.S. Brigade
Social Security Seniors
Christmas is a wonderful time of the
year for many, many reasons. One
good reason is that it is a time for
making “memories.” I cannot remember
any memories of Christmas with
my grandparents. I am sure that we
were actively involved with them at
Christmas, but I just can’t remember
(nor can my siblings remember
anything). I thought about how sad
that is for us and for them.
We have great memories about
Christmas with our mother and dad.
Mother and dad made Christmas a
wonderful time of the year.
When I had my daughter, I wanted
to make memories with her at
Christmas time. So, every Christmas
after the decorations were up,
the cookies were baked (yes, I use to
bake cookies), after the presents were
wrapped and put under the tree, and
Santa Claus was waiting on top of our
house to come down the chimney with
a bag full of gifts for my little “darling”
daughter, my daughter and I (it was
just a girl thing) took Christmas Eve
day to go to the mall and just walk
around, shop, and eat. We took our
time and just enjoyed the moment. This
was a “memory maker.”
Now, I have three grandsons, and for
about ten years, we have been going on
a “Nana’s Christmas Shopping” excursion.
We pick a mall; we pick a hotel;
and we pick two days to go spend time
together shopping, eating, and just
having fun right before Christmas. We
spend one night at the hotel (and that
Christmas Holiday
is always fun).
Our dynamics have changed this year, I now
have a beautiful granddaughter. She will have
her first experience in this excursion (good
luck to her). These are “memory making”
moments.
Let me just say this, even though my daughter
is married and has a family of her own,
we still take time together for our “memory
making” moments at Christmas. This year,
we get to add our granddaughter……..what
fun! How do I afford to do this, I start putting
money away at the first of the year, just
so I can make memories with my family. It is
worth every penny that I spend.
It is never too late to start with your own
“memory making” moments.
Mrs. Oppenheimer, a retiree, decided to get away from the often inclement weather of New York and spend Christmas
in the deep South of the USA. Being unfamiliar with that part of the world, she wandered into a 'restricted'
hotel and said, “Hi. I'm Mrs. Oppenheimer, and I'd like a room for the next week.” “I'm very sorry,” said the
manager, “but all of our rooms are taken.” Just as he said that, a customer came to the desk, and unexpectedly,
checked out. “How lucky,” responded Mrs. Oppenheimer. “Now you have a room for me.” “Look, I'm very sorry,”
said the manager, “but this is a restricted hotel. Jews are not allowed here.” “Jewish! Whaddya mean Jewish! I
happen to be a Catholic,” said Mrs. Oppenheimer. “That takes some believing.” said the manager. “Tell me, who
was the Son of God?” “Jesus,” she replied. “Where was he born?” “In a stable in Bethlehem..... simply because
some Schmuck like you wouldn't rent a room to a Jew.”
Compliments of the Internet

My Passion - Issue 4 - December 2015 | 11
The
Importance of Prayer
Part #4
My prayer is that you have been enjoying
the nuggets of a relationship of prayer with
our heavenly Father as much as I have.
As we begin to come to a close of the year,
I would like to leave you with a few things
that are commanded of us in this relationship:
1. We should have no other Gods before Him.
2. We must study to show ourselves approved a workman, rightly dividing the Word of Truth.
3. Our lives are not our own. We have been bought with a price, the blood of Jesus.
4. The Father is seeking true worshippers; those who will worship in spirit and in truth.
5. Give and it shall be given, give to the Father all that is due Him.
6. Have faith in God.
7. Pray without ceasing.
8. Men ought always to pray and not faint.
9. Lord, teach us to pray.
10. Have faith in God.
11. After this manner, pray Ye.
Take the time to look up these scriptures in your Bible. You may use your Bible dictionary, Concordance,
or Thesaurus. This is your homework.
Out of an effort of study and meditation, I was blessed with this poem:
The Lord’'s Prayer
My Father, who art in Heaven, hallowed be Thy name.
Since the day I met you, my life has not been the same.
Thy Kingdom come, Thy will be done as in Heaven, so be it on earth.
Your name stands above all names, none can match its’ worth.
Give me this day, my daily bread, food for my spirit and my soul.
Oh, how I thirst and hunger, as if after the purest gold.
And forgive all my debts, as I forgive my debtors.
Teach me true forgiveness, as I feast on your love letters.
Lead me not into temptation, but deliver me from evil.
Help me keep my mind stayed on you lest my life becomes upheaveled.
For thine is the Kingdom, the glory, and the power.
And I’m honored to give ecstatic praise in this your finest hour.
Psalmist Gwen Johnson

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| My Passion - Issue 4 - December 2015
My Christmas Guardian Angel
Sandra Shock
This morning I was one of the unfortunate
humans that had to go
to work. I needed to be there by
7:00 am, so I left home at 6:20 am,
giving me plenty of time to get
there by seven. It was still dark
and raining so hard, I could hardly
see the white lines in the street.
Some of the stores and homes had
left their Christmas lights on all
night. They very pretty glittering
in the night rain. I was enjoying
the lights when all of a sudden,
I hit a curb, and sure enough,
busted a tire. So, I drove slowly
to a nearby service station that’s
always opens early. Today, it was
not!
I pulled under one of the covered
bays where you pump gas and
tried to think of what I needed to
do. I didn’t have my mobile phone
with me, and it was still pouring
down rain. The station was closed
and not a sole around, except one
truck two bays down. I got out,
went over to the truck, and looked
in the passenger’s window, but no
one was there. I’m always leery of
doing something like that because
you don’t know who’s good or
bad. I, then, went back to my car
and tried to think what else to do. I
decided to walk to the Waffle House
to call my husband, and as I passed in
front of the truck, I saw a man on the
driver’s side (which I did not see before).
I walked over to him, told him
my circumstances, and asked if he had
a mobile phone that I could borrow to
call home. He looked for
his phone, but could not find it. He
said he would be glad to change the
tire for me, but, I hated for him to get
all wet and nasty. I kept insisting that
I could walk to the Waffle House and
call my husband. He insisted that he
did not mind changing it.
As he was changing the tire, I found
out his name and he worked at the
Correction Center, not too far from
where we were. I decided he was a
good guy if he worked there. He works
the night shift, and every morning,
he came to this service station to
get coffee. He said that they were
usually open at this time, so he was
just waiting. I told him that I did
not see him at first and he said that
he did not even see me looking in
his truck. That’s strange, but you
know……………………you can’t see angels.
When he finished changing the tire, I
tried to pay him for his trouble. He
wouldn’t take anything from me. He
said that one day he might need help.
I asked him if I could at least hug his
neck. He said, “Yes, you can do that.”
I hugged his neck and wished him
a Merry Christmas. I was almost in
tears. He was an angel to me. When I
pulled away, I asked God “to bless my
Guardian Angel.”
We don’t always know why some
things happen. I haven’t had a flat
tire in years and haven’t had one
since. Maybe God was sparing me
from something happening down the
road that day, and for that I am very
thankful.
I do believe in Guardian Angels (not
only at Christmas, but all the time),
and I believe they are watching over
me every day. I believe he was my
Guardian Angel that morning. I believe
God put him there, in that dark,
closed service station, just for me. I
drove back home and got my husband
to take me to work. When we past the
service station, it was all lit up and
running.
THANK YOU GOD FOR MY GUARDIAN ANGEL GOD BLESS YOU

My Passion - Issue 4 - December 2015 | 13
Book Nook
I have so many friends that have written books and they are all such good reads.
However, I have chosen these two books because of the Season. They would be
great gifts to give during the Holidays!
Coffee talk
Daily devotional
Part two
Dr. Cheryl Minter
This is a book of daily devotions that will always lead you to God the Father. It allows you to have intimacy with
the very one who created you and knows you. As you read this book, you will be inspired and encouraged in your
daily life.
You can order this book by going to www.awlc.net
I Love It!
A Christian Woman’s Loving
Thoughts on Marriage
Cornelia Brown
This book is a unique journey that takes a deeper look at marriage. It is a
delightfully funny, yet, passionate way to explore the blessings and struggles of
matrimony by sharing heartfelt anecdotes about her own experiences.
You can order this book by going to www.yahoo.com

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| My Passion - Issue 4 - December 2015
MOTION PICTURE GEEK
by Robey Jones
Ah. Christmas! What a glorious season to be alive. The
decorated trees, the beautiful lights, and the Georgia snow that
we never get. There’s so many reasons to be happy during the
holidays. The number one reason to be thankful is that God
brought His Son into our world. But another amazing tradition
that I love so much is the Christmas movies! There are so many
great Christmas movies out there. So without further ado, here
are some of my favorites!
TOP 9 CHRISTMAS MOVIES TO
WATCH DURING CHRISTMAS!!!
#9 #8 #7
Nobody put’s
Classics in the
Corner.....
except for me!
Old School Christmas
The Grinch A Christmas
Story
#6 #5 #4
Elf
#3
Christmas
Vacation
#2
The Santa
Clause
#1
Unaccompanied
Minors
Miracle On
34 th Street
Rudolph the
Red Nosed
Reindeer
Home
Alone
The Nightmare
Before
Christmas
Home Alone
2
It’s A
Wonderful Life
A Christmas
Carol

Treasure Seekers
The Best Kept Secret in Jonesboro, Georgia
My Passion - Issue 4 - December 2015 | 15
My staff and I are always looking and searching for unique stories of people who have turned their dreams and their passions into
reality. Dakota and I met someone the other day that did just that. Her name is Cheryl Dill. She is one of the owners of “Treasure
Seekers.” This is a store that has everything from the old to the new, from antiques to the modern, furniture, to flowers. In other
words, the store has everything. We
spent an hour in this store looking at
everything. We were intrigued. I saw
things that I had not seen since I was a
little girl. It was such a pleasant experience
that we decided to ask Ms. Cheryl
a few questions about her passion and
her store.
MPM: You said that you and your sisters
started Treasure Seekers together.
Please tell us what caused you guys to
open this store.
Cheryl: Retirement. I know that
sounds strange, but that is the case.
Life's circumstances has brought us full
circle, starting life together under one
roof, and we once again share a home
(sisters are forever friends). Retirement
to most people means it's time to slow
down and enjoy life. We are enjoying
life, but have not slowed down. We
once went on vacation, left the hotel for
a day of play (aka a shopping spree).
When we got back to the hotel the valet
could not park my car (SUV) in the covered
parking lot because we had so much
stuff tied to the top. That was embarrassing,
but only for a second.
MPM: What do you sell at Treasure
Seekers?
Cheryl: That's a hard question because
we will buy just about anything. We have
furniture, glassware, lamps, pictures,
home decor, etc. The most unusual item
we ever bought was a pair of African
headdresses used in ceremonies just because
they were different.
MPM: Do you still have them?
Cheryl: Yes, we still have them. I have
yet to find someone in need of them.
MPM: Where do you get your merchandise?
Cheryl: Aaha! The hunt! Love it! My
favorite part! We like to call it “junktiquing”.
We shop yard sales, auctions, and
estate sales. People sometimes roll up in
trucks or cars full of stuff. There is nothing
more exciting than finding that certain
piece or sometimes a treasure. I love to see
someone else find it also. It is satisfying.
MPM: Are you living out your passion?
Cheryl: Absolutely, I am living my passion!
We have been blessed, for which we
are truly grateful.
Readers, you must go and check out this
unique “treasure.” You will truly enjoy
every moment you spend in the store. You
can find Treasure Seekers at 234 South
Main Street, Jonesboro, GA. https://www.
facebook.com/treasureseekersofjonesboro

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| My Passion - Issue 4 - December 2015

The Garden
My Passion - Issue 4 - December 2015 | 17
Poinsettia, the Christmas plant, is
Spot
popular in many American homes. With
the introduction of long-lasting cultivars,
the popularity of the poinsettia has
increased significantly. It was introduced
to the United States in 1825 by Joel
Robert Poinsett, first U. S. Ambassador
to Mexico who obtained plants from the
wilds of southern Mexico. The common
name for the exotic plant, poinsettia,
came from his last name. Botanically,
the plant is known as Euphorbia
pulcherrima.
There is an old Mexican legend about
how Poinsettia's and Christmas came
together. It goes like this:
There was once a poor Mexican girl
called Pepita who had no present to give
the baby Jesus at the Christmas Eve
Service. As Pepita walked to the chapel
sadly, her cousin Pedro tried to cheer her
up.
“Pepita,” he said "I'm sure that even the
smallest gift, given by someone who loves
him will make Jesus happy."
Pepita didn't know what she could give,
so she picked a small handful of weeds
from the roadside and made them into
a small bouquet. She felt embarrassed
because she could only give this small
present to Jesus. As she walked through
the chapel to the altar, she remembered
what Pedro had said. She began to feel
better, knelt down and put the bouquet
at the bottom of the nativity scene.
Suddenly, the bouquet of weeds burst
into bright red flowers, and everyone
who saw them were sure they had seen
a miracle. From that day on, the bright
red flowers were known as the 'Flores de
Noche Buena', or 'Flowers of the Holy
Night'.
The shape of the poinsettia flower
and leaves are sometimes thought as a
symbol of the Star of Bethlehem which
led the Wise Men to Jesus. The red
colored leaves symbolize the blood of
Christ. The white leaves represent his
purity.
Compliments of the Internet

Cooking
with Melissa Jones
18
| My Passion - Issue 4 - December 2015
I love the Holidays – the decorations, the tree, the gifts, the baking, the special
meals, the surprises for people – I love it all. My parents always made
everything seem magical around the holidays, so I thought it appropriate and
necessary to try and do the same for our family. Rob and I wanted to establish
family traditions and make memories that our children can take with
them all their lives. I have such special memories tucked away in my heart…
and they help make this season so very special to this day.
HERBED PRIME RIB
INGREDIENTS:
2 tbsp dried basil leaves
2 tbsp dried oregano leaves
1 tbsp garlic powder
2 tsp onion powder
1 tsp ground black pepper
1 boneless beef rib roast (5 to 6 lbs.)
1 tbsp oil
1 tsp salt
1. Mix first 5 ingredients in small bowl. Set aside. Place roast on rack in shallow roasting
pan; brush beef with oil. Sprinkle with salt; coat with seasoning mixture.
2. Roast, uncovered, in preheated 350 degrees oven until internal temperature reaches 130
degrees for medium-rare (1 ¾ to 2 ¼ hours = 20 to 22 minutes per pound) or 140 degrees
for medium (2 ¼ to 2 ¾ hours=22 to 25). Begin checking internal temperature of roast with
meat thermometer 30 minutes BEFORE estimated end cook time. When desired temperature
is attained, take out of oven; cover with foil and let stand 15 minutes before carving.
Makes 12 to 14 servings

gCorner
My Passion - Issue 4 - December 2015 | 19
PAUL’S BEST EVER CARROT CAKE
INGREDIENTS:
FOR THE CAKE
2 cups self-rising flour
2 cups sugar
1 ¼ cups vegetable oil
4 eggs, lightly beaten
2 tsp cinnamon
2 cups carrots, grated
FOR THE ICING
16 oz. (2 blocks) cream cheese, room temperature
1 cup Crisco
2 lbs. Confectioners (powdered) sugar
½ cup pecans, chopped and toasted
2 tsp vanilla extract
1. Make the cake: Mix all cake ingredients together and bake at 350 degrees for 30 to 40 minutes or until done.
Cool completely.
2. Make the icing: Beat cream cheese and Crisco together. Add sugar in small amounts until mixture is completely
incorporated; add vanilla and pecans.
Makes 8 to 10 servings
******This recipe makes great cupcakes as well. Just cut the baking time and icing in half. These freeze great,
too!

20
Light
| My Passion - Issue 4 - December
of
2015
the World
Since this is My Passion Magazine’s Christmas issue and this is our main focus, we wanted a cover page
that would be outstanding and represent the Holiday Season. One of the staff members told us about his
neighbor who decorated her home with beautiful trees and lights. After he told us all about her decorations,
I knew that I had to meet her. I made an appointment, and off I went!
I met the most gracious woman that I have ever met. Her name is Dawn McGee. We became friends right
away. I could not help but love her. She invited me into her home and told me about her passion for her
Christmas trees, Christmas lights, and all of her decorations.
She had been decorating her home with one tree or more in each room of her house (even her bathrooms
and hallways) for 25 years. “Of course,” she said, “I didn’t start off with this many trees. I think I have
about 14 or 15 now. I just started off with a few and everything just grew.”
She says that she decorates for herself, for her family, and for the guest that frequent her home during the
Christmas holidays. She said, “I know what the real meaning of Christmas is all about……our dear Savior’s
birth. But, when I am sitting looking at all of my lights, I think about Jesus being the light of the world
and that He really loves me. When He came into this world, His light penetrated the darkness. That
gives me more pleasure than anything else. You see, Jesus is the center of my life.”
She has a name for every tree that she has in her home. Let me just give you the names: Radiant
Red Gallant Gold, Chocolate Delight, The Grinch, Winter’s Palace, Aquamarine, Department 56, Down
Memory Lane, Pretty in Pink, Gingerbread Dreams, Radko Mania, Deep in the Jungle, The Color Purple,
Meadowland Memories, Frosty The Snowman, O Holy Night, and Old Fashion.
Not only does she decorate the inside of her home, but the outside as well.
By allowing My Passion Magazine to publish the pictures of some of her trees, she is allowing us to feel the
real meaning of Christmas through her eyes…..He is the Reason for the Season!

My Passion - Issue 4 - December 2015 | 21

22
| My Passion - Issue 4 - December 2015
I’M DREAMING OF A WHITE CHRISTMAS
Mary Lou Kehoe
It is hard to believe that it has been three years since I took
one of the biggest steps in my life and moved back to Minnesota
where I was born. It was hard leaving my children and
grandchildren and there were many times that I questioned my
decision. I wondered if I had really heard God tell me to move
and could not see how leaving all I had known for so long could
have been the right thing to do. However, now that they have
all moved to Minnesota as well, I can’t help but see that God
had His hand in everything that happened.
My first Christmas with my sister was wonderful and pretty
quiet without the kids. I was quickly brought into the traditions
of her family as well as the family of my brother-in-law.
We baked cookies with my nephews – they roll out the cookie
dough. We had fun parties with lots of food and most of all
great fellowship. They kept me busy so that my mind did not
wander back to what I was missing in Georgia. And of course,
there was snow.
One of the many things I had missed about Minnesota was
snow. Crazy right? I had missed the change of seasons and snow
at Christmas. There is something about the first snow fall of the
winter that is magical. In an instant the brown grass and barren
trees of fall are replaced with a fresh coating of white snow
that brightens up everything. It is a time when I am instantly
reminded of the wonderful world that God created. It is a time
of new beginnings with a promise of new growth come spring. I
quickly realized that that promise did not apply only to nature,
but also to myself.
As God moved to make a way for my daughters and grandchildren
to join me in Minnesota, our family has expanded rapidly.
They have been adopted into a family with aunts, uncles, and
cousins that they did not know, and their lives have been enriched
because of it. My oldest daughter is soon to be married
and a new grandson is on the way! Our lives have been on a
journey that only God could have planned.
Now we all look to the holidays with a great expectation of
snow and the opportunity of seeing a white Christmas. My
wish for all of you this holiday season is that all your Christmases
be white and that you, too, receive the promises of a new
beginning from God. Merry Christmas!

My Passion - Issue 4 - December 2015 | 23
"Tis The Season for Networking"
Holidays are filled with vacations, traveling,
family time, parties etc. It can be so
hectic and overwhelming. But, in the mist
of all these whirlwind of activities, you can
still network like a pro, make great connections,
and establish meaningful relationships.
With that being said, do not use the holidays
as an excuse to have your networking
fall to the way side.
Listed below are helpful tips for networking
during holiday activities.
Work Party
Whether you work for a major company or
a small startup, you will most likely get an
invite to a holiday party. Do not trash your
invitation or skip out early. Make it a point
to attend the event with an agenda in place.
Commit to meeting a few new people or
strengthening existing relationships. Share
your "new year" resolutions or career goals
for advancing. Make introductions with
colleagues or co-workers who may not know
each other. Also, try to organize a time
to meet up outside of work to continue the
camaraderie.
Community / Volunteer Event
The holidays are the perfect times for giving
back and sowing good seeds of hope and
love. If you are volunteering with an organization
or within your community, look
for ways to expand on your efforts. For
example, encourage your family, friends and
co-workers to take part if they are available
and have not in the past. Reach out to the
organizer of the event (if you are not the
organizer) and ask if there is an extra need
that may not necessarily be publicly known.
If you work for a mid-size or large company,
inquire through the appropriate department
about a matching program or making a donation to your charities.
Social Gathering
Perhaps you, your significant other or a friend are invited to a social
holiday party. It is always a fun time to meet new people, talk about
the latest trends and news, as well as sports and entertainment. In
these types of gatherings, the atmosphere is more relaxed and easier
for connecting. While talking and making conversations, you can
find common interests and shared passions. There is an old saying
that people do business with those they like, trust and know. Even
though you may not walk away with any business, you can establish
a premature relation for future business.
Hopefully, these few and practical tips will jumpstart your networking
for the holiday season. Remember networking is a lifestyle and a
tool for success.
Contact: Chi Chi Okezie,
cokezie@snseminars.com, http://www.snseminars.com

24
| My Passion - Issue 4 - December 2015
Baby
Jack’s
Story
Part IV
After Jackson was born and we were left without him, my world turned upside down. Nothing made sense. How
could this happen? Why would God put my body through the exhausting task of growing a baby that was not
going to live? Why would he put the effort into creating a human that would only die shortly after birth? What
is the point of life if you can die after only being alive for two hours?
Which all sounds terrible, I know. And don't misunderstand me here - I will never regret Jackson's existence. I
will never regret carrying him. He is my son and he has changed me forever. I will always be thankful for him
and the opportunity to be his mom. I just wish we could have enjoyed him here with us for a little bit longer.
Determined to find the answer to my question, I scoured my You Version Bible app for a reading plan that
might reveal the purpose of life. I found a quick, five day study plan by John Piper called "God's Glory and Your
Purpose" and figured I would start there. This turned out to be a great choice because John answered my question
on the very first day by declaring this: God created us to display his own glory. (See Isaiah 43:7 & 1 Corinthians
10:31) The point is not to have healthy pregnancies, or healthy babies, or even long lives. Those things
are about us. No, the whole point of every living thing in this world is to display God's perfect, majestic glory.
Our lives are not about us.
Some are only given a couple of hours on earth to fulfill their purpose. The rest of us are given a lifetime. We
have a new chance every waking morning to glorify God. John Piper goes on to say that God is most glorified
through us, when we are most satisfied in him. I am still trying to wrap my mind around all that this implies,
but I do know this: since discovering this truth, my world has been turned right-side up. Things make sense
again. Jackson served his purpose here, and I need to, too.
I don't know what circumstance, or season, or stage of life you might be in. You may already know and live this
idea. But, if you don't, I hope that this truth will transform your life, as it has mine. You want to live life to the
fullest? Enjoy every day? Love life no matter what you are doing? Then live your purpose. You were created to
glorify God. That's it. That's the whole point.
Brittany Liberatore

My Passion - Issue 4 - December 2015 | 25
Story of Mistletoe at Christmas
Nigel's business trip had gone quite well, but he was ready to return home to the warmth of his family. Bristol
airport, on the other hand, had turned a tacky red and green; the loudspeakers blared annoying renditions of once
cherished Christmas carols and ancient pop songs.
Nigel enjoyed Christmas and took it very seriously, and being slightly tired and irritable, he just wanted to get
home. He approached the check-in desk humming a carol quietly to himself in an attempt to keep his spirits up.
He began to check-in his one suitcase when he saw hanging mistletoe. Not real mistletoe, but it was very cheap plastic
with red paint on some of the rounder parts and green paint on some of the flatter and more pointed parts, that
could be taken for mistletoe only in a very surreal type of way.
With a considerable degree of irritation and nowhere else to vent it, he said to the girl at the desk, “Even if we were
married, I would not want to kiss you under such a ghastly mockery of mistletoe.”
“Sir,” replied the attendant politely, “look more closely at where the mistletoe is.”
“Ok,” muttered Nigel, “I see that it's above the luggage scale which is the place you'd have to step forward for a
kiss.”
“That's not why it's there.”
“Ok, I give up. Why is it there?” snapped Nigel irritably.
The attendant quipped: “It's there so you can kiss your luggage good-bye.”
Compliments of Internet
Have the time of your Life!
A cruise! A Resort! A Hotel!
PAYCATION TRAVEL
Elaine Tinsley
Travel Agent
elaineti@bellsouth.net
Earn As You Travel
www.islandschoals.paycation.com
770-710-3866

26
| My Passion - Issue 4 - December 2015
A few months ago, I was in a market in Buckhead. As
I walked through the store, I met a lovely woman who
was giving away samples of her product, Judi Cakes.
I sampled several pieces. They were delicious. She
had made her passion a reality. Her cakes would be the
perfect Christmas gift for those office workers, bosses,
friends, neighbors, etc. You know, the people you really
need to get a nice gift, but don’t know what to get
them. These cakes would be perfect. However, the cakes
are perfect for any occasion.
Judi said that she started her business because of
friends that owned a small local produce market in the
Atlanta area. They were contemplating bringing in new
food products, namely a cake. Judi told them that they
must try her cranberry cream cheese pound cake! To
which they replied, “Bring us a sample!” And we are so
glad that she did. Needless to say, they put it in their
stores.
She said that she had been baking since she was old
enough to stir batter. Her earliest baking memories
go back to about second grade when she made apple
crisps from a very popular 1950s boxed mix. By fifth
grade, she baked from scratch using her mother’s Betty
Crocker Cookbook. Her mother found no joy in cooking
because her family of seven devoured the fruits of
her kitchen labors within minutes of sitting down at the
dinner table.
Judi found that she enjoyed the baby cakes or 4” cakes.
While researching baking pan options, she happened
upon a rectangular pan with six wells for 4” angel food
cakes. It appealed to her as the perfect way to create vendor
samples. After turning out the first baked batter, she
fell in love with the cakes’ irresistible charm. It was adorably
CUTE! It was just the right size to give as a unique
and tasty gift, or treat, without sabotaging anyone’s eating
plan, which so many currently appreciate.
She followed the Weight Watchers eating plan for over
ten years, and understood the importance of moderation.
It seems that the older she got, the more aware
of healthy, all natural, and moderate eating choices she
became. A small sweet indulgence goes a long way now.
Judi Cakes are available in larger 7” and 9” rounds on
her website. During holiday seasons, the 7” can be found
in Whole Foods Markets in the Atlanta area.
She has so many delicious flavors; because of space, they
cannot all be listed. Here are just a few: Apricot, Apple
Caramel, Blueberry Orange, Caramel Sea Salt, Chocolate
Chunk, Cranberry, Ginger Spice, and Lemon with a Hint
of Rosemary, etc.
To find out more about these delicious cakes and how to
order go to her website: www.judicakes.co (Please note
that there is NO “m” at end, it is just co and not com).
A 15% discount is available to Passion Magazine readers
with the code JC15.

My Passion - Issue 4 - December 2015 | 27
My Passion Magazine suggest getting, Dr. Paulette Stewart’s
book, Ladies of Grace, as a Christmas gift! Order today and
receive an autographed copy, just log onto
www.drpaulettestewart.com
Order your book today!

28
| My Passion - Issue 4 - December 2015
Wellness
Dawn Causey
You are what you eat? That's what my doctor says and
there's a lot of truth to that! During the holidays we love
to embellish in our favorite dishes. When incorporating
fruits and vegetables into your diet, it's good to have a
variety from the colors of the "rainbow" and know how
they benefit your health.
Yellow and Orange
Let's begin with our yellows and oranges. Carotenoids
provide the color in these fruits and vegetables. Citrus
fruits such as mangoes, pineapple, carrots, and yellow
squash help boost your immune system and visual properties.
Oranges have antioxidants that help reduce heart
disease and certain types of cancer.
Red, blue, and purple
Red, blue, and purple fruits such as strawberries, blueberries,
and grapes contain antioxidants that reduce cell
damage, cardiovascular disease and age-associated memory
loss. Lycopene provides the red color in tomatoes,
watermelon, and red grapefruit. They, too, can reduce
the risk of many cancers, especially prostate cancer.
Green
Never run from your broccoli, spinach, and green beans!
The chlorophyll that give them their deep green color
helps the skin and helps eliminate toxins from the body.
White
Onions, garlic, potatoes, bananas, and mushrooms are
power packed and can help lower blood pressure and
cholesterol.
As you can see, many fruits and vegetables have overlapping
benefits such as reducing cardiovascular disease and
the risk of developing certain types of cancer. There are
many other benefits of eating foods with various colors
and they also make your meal look very appealing. Be
sure to incorporate these foods into your diet on a daily
basis so that your body can get the vitamins, minerals,
and nutrients needed.
So next time you’re at the farmers market or in the produce
section at your local supermarket, be sure to "taste
the rainbow" and your body will thank you for it!
Dawn Causey
Host of Remarkable Essence WebTV &
Radio Show
Founder of The Essence of a Woman:
Health, Wellness & Empowerment
Conference

My Passion - Issue 4 - December 2015 | 29
THE BATTLE
IS YOURS
Mohammed Bolton
Yolanda Adams eloquently wrote a song entitled, The Battle is Not Yours (It’s the Lord’s). If you get an opportunity,
please listen to it as it will bless your soul. So often, as believers, we fix our lives upon that same theme. Whenever
trials or challenges present themselves, we stand strong on the belief that God will uphold His word and tear
down any stronghold that rises up in our lives. Friends and family, alike, will call or message us that “the battle is
not yours!” And to hammer the point home, they will say, “In Jesus’ name!” You know what I’m talking about. As
a matter of fact, you just remembered the last time you said it or heard it said.
Well, I have news for you today. This battle is absolutely yours! It’s all yours and no one can do it but you. Being
healthy is as challenging as “working out your own salvation.” It’s tougher than the Bar Exam. It’s more taxing
than the Navy Seals training. It’s more exhausting than the Boston Marathon. Simply put, there’s no challenge in
the world that compares to being healthy. It is a 24-hour, 9-days-a-week deal. It has to be a conscious, grueling effort.
That’s my challenge to you today. Look at how far you’ve come on your serendipitous knowledge of fitness. Embrace
that, but let it now be history. Discover something new about yourself. It’s time to discover your creative side in
the kitchen. Ugh! I know some may have said that. No one enjoys eating healthy all the time; however, there are
ways you can do it without it feeling like work. Research foods that are high in fiber, low in carbs and sugars and
tasty. I wouldn’t advise pilfering through the grocery store tasting their fresh vegetables, because that may be a little
more eventful than you’d hope for. But I do want you to try apps like Calorie King, which will help you find foods
that are not cantankerous to your goal. Recipes are everywhere, so share some of your TV time with research. Cook
foods that will last a couple of days so you won’t have to cook every day. Stay away from pasta, breads and sugary
foods/drinks. Keep a journal and feel free to share some of your discoveries and testimonies. You can email me at
loveyourbodybootcamp2012@gmail.com so I can celebrate with you. Until the next time, embrace the battle.

30
| My Passion - Issue 4 - December 2015
Christmas Events 2015
Tri-Counties
Henry, Clayton, Fayette
Fayette County
Downtown Christmas Parade/Tree Lighting/Visit with Santa and Mrs. Claus
JOIN US FOR A BIG DAY on...........
Saturday, December 5, 2015 at the Gazebo on the square and along the sidewalks in Downtown Fayetteville.
The 6th Annual Downtown Christmas Parade starts at 5:00 pm, followed by Fayetteville's Tree Lighting Program
which will start immediately after the parade.

My Passion - Issue 4 - December 2015 | 31
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Happy New Year Merry to you Christmas all. and Happy New Year to you all.

32
| My Passion - Issue 4 - December 2015
Clayton County
Friday, December 11, 2015
YULE LOG CELEBRATION - Join us for an evening outdoors filled with holiday cheer. Enjoy music by the
Morrow and Forest Park High School Orchestras, refreshments, face painting and ornament making. Then follow
a candlelit path through the woods to a bonfire where you will find storyteller, Barry Mann, painting pictures of
holidays past. The evening will be complete with attending children searching a wooded hillside for the fables Yule
Log. This event is FREE and provides a shuttle service from Babb Middle School.
Saturday, December 12, 2015
BRUNCH WITH SANTA - Interact with Santa and enjoy games, arts & crafts, and breakfast from Chickfila from
11am-2pm at Carl Rhodenizer Recreation Center.
Friday, December 18, 2015
CROSS CULTURAL WINTER CELEBRATION - This program will increase awareness of how the holiday season
is celebrated in various cultures, such as Christmas, Hanukah, and Kwanza. Story teller, arts & crafts, games, and
light refreshments will be provided. FREE event from 6:00 to 8:00pm at Virginia Burton Gray Recreation Center.

My Passion - Issue 4 - December 2015 | 33
Henry County
Saturday, December 3, 2015
The City of Locust Grove and Locust Grove Better Hometown will sponsor their annual “Christmas . . . in the
Grove,” on December 3, in Downtown Locust Grove. The free event features a parade, entertainment, food, train
rides, a rock-climbing wall, crafts, and the arrival of Santa via the Locust Grove fire truck. The festivities are from
10:00 a.m. to 2:00 p.m. The Christmas parade begins at 10:00 a.m. Downtown merchants will hold an “open house”
for Christmas gift shopping.
The 3rd Annual Gingerbread House Contest in Hampton is scheduled for Saturday. Deliver your house Thursday or
Friday for judging. All ages welcome. Pre-built houses or build your own houses are allowed. Each house will receive a
ribbon. For more information, call Candy Franklin, Hampton Main Street director at (770) 946-4306.
Saturday, December 12, 2015
Henry County will usher in the holidays with the 7th Annual Heritage Christmas Festival to be held on Saturday, December
12, 2015, from 2:00 to 6:00 p.m.., at Heritage Park in McDonough. The park will be transformed into a festive,
holiday wonderland. Radio Disney will be playing the latest tunes from 2:00 to 4:00 p.m. Heritage Park is located at
101 Lake Dow Road, in McDonough. Call Henry County Parks and Recreation at (770) 288-7300, or visit the web site
at www.hcprd.org.
November 27- December 30, 2015
Holiday Light Spectacular by Christmas Décor
Over 3 million lights! Come drive through winter wonderland! There will be rides, games, and prizes! (To ride you
must purchase a wristband.)

34
| My Passion - Issue 4 - December 2015
www.makeimprints.com
2669 Hwy 42N, McDonough GA 30281
Visit us on the web at: www.pawsandsmiles.com

My Passion - Issue 4 - December 2015 | 35
LawnCare
David Buckner
770-710-9962

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