Designed by the Master

I was eight. As was her habit, my mother left me every Saturday night at her friend's house so she could go dancing. Although it often scared me to be alone, I could look forward to her tucking me in and kissing me goodnight. After she left, the scent of her perfume would linger in the air, permeating the whole room. I fell asleep enveloped by her fragrance, and I felt safe. This compilation of ten stories relays how women's influence can permeate a life, just like a lingering perfume. The Bible says: "Thanks be to God, who always leads us in His triumph in Christ, and manifests through us the sweet aroma of the knowledge of Him..." (2 Corinthians 2:14-16). As God's fragrance permeates each believer, and she can in turn disseminate His delicate scent to those around her, bringing opportunities to influence for His glory and honor. K. Ellen Jacobs is a widow, single-mom, grandmother and great-grandmother. She entered college at the age of 50 to pursue a degree in Bible and Psychology. Ellen has served women through Bible Studies, seminars and retreat speaker, and Director of Women's Ministries. She has also ministered as a professional pastoral counselor, college professor, and student adviser. Ellen holds a bachelors degree in psychology and a masters in Counseling Psychology from Chapman University. While teaching full-time at Corban College, Ellen helped develop three degree programs: Family Studies, Youth and Family Studies, and Women's Ministry. She continues teaching part-time and is on staff as a family counselor with her local church, Salem Heights Church. Ellen is a breast cancer survivor of eight years.