Thursday, July 31, 2008
Good News! Good news!
Jamie got a call yesterday from the realtor who is selling the house in Dacusville. They decided to accept our offer! Yeah! I am so excited, happy, thrilled, etc...(you get the picture) We went over to the house last night so Jamie could look at the creek after the rain, and while we were there, we met a couple who lives down the road. They are very sweet..and happened to be the cousin of Austin's football coach (Brian) Another family who lives on the next road over is Steve and Julie from Decree, which are long time friends of ours. Julie's mother and my grandmother are cousins, and we also graduated together. They are a truly awesome family. They have three great kids that my kids can't wait to play with! I am praying that the sell of our house goes forward without any problems. The appraiser comes out today and then they will do a home inspection. Please pray that everything goes well with that...After we actually close on our house, alot of stress will be relieved from Jamie. I was reluctant to post anything about the house, because things have been so crazy, but I am too excited not to! :-) Lord willing, everything will go through and we will have our house sold and be in the other by the end of Aug. Have a great day and please keep praying! Thank you to everyone who prays for our family.
Wednesday, July 30, 2008
Tuesday, July 29, 2008
For Ladies only.. PMDD
Premenstrual dysphoric disorder or PMDD is a condition associated with severe emotional and physical problems that are linked closely to the menstrual cycle. Symptoms occur regularly in the second half of the cycle and end when menstruation begins or shortly thereafter. PMDD is not just a new name for premenstrual syndrome (PMS), a condition that affects as many as 75% of menstruating women. It is, however, considered to be a very severe form of PMS that affects about 5% of menstruating women. Both PMDD and PMS share symptoms in common that include depression, anxiety, tension, irritability and moodiness. What sets PMDD apart is its severity. Women with PMDD find that it has a very disruptive effect on their lives. Please read on to get more information about PMDD -- what it is, how it is diagnosed and how it is treated.
I am one of the 5%..if you are too, please let me know, so that we can pray for each other. I choose not to take meds for this. I have in the past, but do not like the side effects. Please join me in prayer for the women who suffer from this.
If you don't have it, it may be hard for you to understand,but trust me, it is REAL. The main difference in PMDD and PMS, is that is completely disrupts your life for about 10 days after ovulation. When the menstrual cycle begins, the symptoms start to go away.
For more info click here
Thanks for reading, and for your prayers
I am one of the 5%..if you are too, please let me know, so that we can pray for each other. I choose not to take meds for this. I have in the past, but do not like the side effects. Please join me in prayer for the women who suffer from this.
If you don't have it, it may be hard for you to understand,but trust me, it is REAL. The main difference in PMDD and PMS, is that is completely disrupts your life for about 10 days after ovulation. When the menstrual cycle begins, the symptoms start to go away.
For more info click here
Thanks for reading, and for your prayers
Saturday, July 26, 2008
I am praying to become a Prairie Muffin
1) Prairie Muffins are committed to obeying God's law in every area of life, as they are aware of its application to their lives and circumstances.
2) Prairie Muffins are helpmeets to their husbands, seeking creative and practical ways to further their husbands' callings and aid them in their dominion responsibilities.
3) Prairie Muffins are aware that God is in control of their ability to conceive and bear children, and they are content to allow Him to bless them as He chooses in this area.
4) Prairie Muffins seek to conform themselves to the image of God by not chafing at the trials and afflictions which He brings to them, but thankfully submitting to His loving providence as He makes them fit for heaven
.5) Prairie Muffins improve their intellect and knowledge as they have opportunity, first by seeking wisdom from God's word, then by reading good books and other materials which help them to make informed opinions about a wide variety of subjects.
6) Prairie Muffins dress modestly and in a feminine manner.
7) Prairie Muffins protect the innocence of their children, until such a time their children are mature enough to be exposed to potentially-harmful cultural influences.
8) Prairie Muffins are creative, learning new skills and working with their hands to provide items of beauty as well as utility for their families.
9) Prairie Muffins do not reflect badly on their husbands by neglecting their appearance; they work with the clay God has given, molding it into an attractive package for the pleasure of their husbands.
10) Prairie Muffins are patient and forbearing, not responding rashly to slights, perceived or real.
11) Prairie Muffins own aprons and they know how to use them
.12) Prairie Muffins prefer others above themselves, seeking to serve God by serving others, especially members of their own household.
13) Prairie Muffins practice hospitality, graciously, even when their home is not as perfect as they would like.
14) Prairie Muffins have a sense of humor, even in the midst of trials.
15) Prairie Muffins do not become paralyzed by fears and worries; rather, they see God's loving hand in all their circumstances.
16) Prairie Muffins are accomplished at organizing and delegating.
17) Prairie Muffins place their husbands' needs and desires above other obligations, arranging their schedules and responsibilities so that they do not neglect the one who provides for and protects them and their children.
18) Prairie Muffins are fiercely submissive to God and to their husbands.
19) Prairie Muffins appreciate godly role models, such as Anne Bradstreet, Elizabeth Prentiss and Elisabeth Elliot. They do not idolize Laura Ingalls Wilder (Little House on the Prairie) or Louisa May Alcott (Little Women); while they may enjoy aspects of home life presented in their books, PMs understand that the latent humanism and feminism in these stories and in the lives of these women is not worthy of emulation.
20) Prairie Muffins make significant economic contributions to their households in many ways. They are careful with the hard-earned money that their husbands bring home, wisely weighing expenditures to ensure that they stretch the dollars as far as they can go, without being parsimonious. They also may help their husbands in their husbands' callings or bring money into their households through homecentered business under their husbands' authority, as long as that activity does not detract from their very important homekeeping duties
.21) Prairie Muffins recognize that all good gifts come from the Father of Lights (James 1:17) and they also realize their privileged position as "home despot," thus they are grateful to God and their husbands for enabling them to engage in the wonderful role of homekeeper.
22) Prairie Muffins try to maintain a peaceful environment for their families by keeping their voices quiet and their tones gentle as much as possible.
23) While Prairie Muffins seek to have a multitude of wise counselors, they are careful not to elevate mere men and women to a position where they are tempted to idolize those whom they admire. They also are aware that all have weaknesses, and they accept this reality without discarding the good teaching of those godly people who may occasionally stumble in their weakness or with whom we sometimes must disagree.
24) It is not possible to fit Prairie Muffins into a box. They come in many shapes, sizes and flavors, they have a variety of talents and interests. All their pursuits, however, are weighed to see if they are pleasing to God and done in obedience to His will as revealed in His word.
25) Prairie Muffins are tough on themselves, but forgiving of the faults and differences of others, without sacrificing their commitment to truth and righteousness. This is sometimes a difficult balance, but one which Prairie Muffins strive to keep.
26) While they often may feel like they have split personalities because of the many hats they must wear, Prairie Muffins do have their feet firmly planted in two worlds: the now and the not yet. In the now, they must deal with the realities and disappointments of everyday life, praying for daily wisdom and walking by faith, not by sight, as God providentially directs their steps. In the not yet, they strive for the biblical ideals by which they determine the direction of their lives, understanding that they may fall short of these ideals as they struggle with their flesh and their circumstances, but trusting that God will honor their humble obedience with a more mature faith and the blessings that come from both the struggle and the obedience, in this life and in the next.
27) The letter "P" at the beginning of their names should be the only similarity between Prairie Mufffins and Pharisees. Never should the Prairie Muffin haughtily pray, "Thank God I am not like that...(fill in the blank)." Rather, she should always say, "There, but for the grace of God, go I." This is not to say that obedience to God's law is not important, however. Prairie Muffins gratefully accept the yoke that Christ places on them, and they seek to have the mind of Christ with the godly perspective which sees the burdens of our Lord as truly light; He is the One who gives us strength to carry those burdens, and He is even the One who carries them.
28) Prairie Muffins mind their own business. While that business may include encouraging other women "to love their husbands, to love their children, to be sensible, pure, workers at home, kind, being subject to their own husbands, so that the word of God will not be dishonored," it most emphatically excludes encouraging other women to run ahead of or resist the authority of their husbands or elders in pursuit of any PM distinctive.
29) Prairie Muffins are open to correction from proper authorities. They are responsible to submit to their own husbands, to their elders, and ultimately to God. If rebuked by these authorites a PM should receive such correction gracefully and gratefully. If rebuked by others, she should take the concern to her proper authorities.
30) "Home, Sweet Home" is more than just a sentimental saying for the Prairie Muffin. Her home is the center of the Prairie Muffin's activities. Of course, she needs to occasionally go away from home to engage in various activities related to her calling, but her focus is on making home a haven for her husband and children and using it to glorify God in whatever ministry to others He may call her. She is content in her home and does not see it as a prison from which she constantly must escape. She wisely rules over her domain by keeping busy in her full-time calling as homekeeper. Chocolate bon-bons may be a rare indulgence, but Prairie Muffins don't have the time or inclination to waste their lives on soap operas or other inane and inappropriate entertainment.
31) While Prairie Muffins try to be women who make plans and stick with them, so that they use their time wisely and reach the goals they and their Prairie Dawgs have determined for their families, they also know they must be flexible and be prepared to meet whatever circumstances fall into their laps, sometimes at a moment's notice, responding with grace and calm.
32) Though we abhor the idea of women being involved in the military and fighting battles which men are commanded to fight, Prairie Muffins recognize that there is a real battle in which they are on the front lines: the battle of the seed of the woman against the seed of the serpent. In this most-important conflict, we gratefully serve King Jesus in the capacity He has given us, waving our wooden spoons and rallying our children to stand alongside us in the battle, training them to be mighty warriors in the defense and furthering of God's kingdom.
33) Prairie Muffins are not clingy, they are clinging. There are many things in this world that it is tempting to grasp, even good things such as our homes, our marriages and our children. Our hands need to be firmly planted in the Savior's hand, not clinging to those things which are good gifts from Him, but clinging to His will for our lives. When those good things are sometimes taken away, we must accept what is better, knowing that our loving Father wants what is best for us.
34) A Prairie Muffin is generously affectionate with her children (and husband!), lavishing hugs and kisses on each one as a reminder of how precious they are to her.
35) This society worships rugged individualists, and lone ranger Christians are often the rule rather than the exception. While we know that it is becoming more difficult to find family-friendly and biblically-based churches, Prairie Muffins reject the notion that commitment to a local church is optional. We affirm the importance of the church in our families' lives, and we willingly submit to its leaders. It is our desire to raise children who are life-long worshipers in the pew and future leaders of strong churches.
36) Prairie Muffins are happy to be girls—they rejoice in the distinctives which God sovereignly bestowed on them which make them feminine. They are also happy that their husbands are masculine, and they do not diminish that masculinity by harping on habits which emanate from the fact that boys will be boys, even when they grow up. In addition, Prairie Muffins are careful not to use their feminine, hormotional weaknesses to excuse sinful attitudes and actions, but learn to depend more and more on God's grace and strength in the midst of any monthly trials.
37) Prairie Muffins may go against the flow, but they also know how to roll with the flow. Living moment by moment, day by day, season by season, they don't depend on present circumstances to dictate their direction in life. Circumstances change constantly, so Prairie Muffins hang tightly onto the Father's hand while they ride out the waves of life that ebb and flow past their doors. 38) The chief end of the Prairie Muffin is to glorify God and enjoy Him forever. Because she is not her own, but belongs to her faithful Savior Jesus Christ, she understands her responsibility to please Him in all she does, looking to His holy, inerrant Word for guidance in everything pertaining to life and godliness. As a Berean, she measures all she reads and hears against that plumbline, and she purposes to gratefully obey God's law, in His strength, because Jesus, the second person of the Trinity, said, "If you love Me, keep my commandments" (John 14:15). We understand that nothing we do will merit our salvation—that is only given through the imputation of Christ's righteousness to us—but serving our Lord is part of our sanctification. The Bible has some very specific things to say to women regarding their God-given role, and Prairie Muffins take those divinely-ordained distinctions very seriously.
39) Aware that they are being watched, rather than becoming paranoid—or annoyed—Prairie Muffins are employed* in setting a good example for those who have their eyes on them. We in no way wish to endorse adopting masks to hide the real "you," but we firmly believe that what is on the inside will show through, so we suggest remembering that there is no hiding the real you from those who know you best, i.e., your family. By God's grace we will continue to work on cleaning up our act, being that good example, knowing that "more attention our children pay to what we do than what we say."
40) The women who will have the greatest impact on the world, those who will have the greatest influence on history, are those "well-behaved" women who faithfully serve God in their daily lives, seeking His approval rather than the world's admiration. Prairie Muffins know that while engaging in the kingdom-building work in their homes of loving, training and disciplining their children, the world may not express its approval, but it will be turned upside down.
41) Self-fulfillment is not a motivation for the Prairie Muffin. As time flies by, she senses the urgency for living a "real" life, really living life for eternity. Our goal should be to please ourselves less and please God more: our pleasure should be pleasing God.
42) We are reminded in Proverbs 10:19, "In the multitude of words sin is not lacking, but he who restrains his lips is wise." Prairie Muffins must refrain from being mouthy, including online. It is not our place to always set everyone straight or tell everything we know. In fact, Proverbs also warns us not to answer a fool according to his folly (Proverbs 26:4), so pray for wisdom before unleashing your opinions like any fool with a keyboard. This entreaty to restraint particularly applies to battles of which you have no part. She who has ears to hear, read carefully the admonitions of the great Puritan preacher, Matthew Poole, on the issue of detraction, an admonition that is never more timely though written hundreds of years ago. Then go back to Proverbs, starting with chapter one, because if you want to be a Proverbs 31 woman, then that's the place to begin
43) There are many good things that Prairie Muffins love: their husbands, their children, their churches. But most of all, Prairie Muffins love their Lord and Savior Jesus Christ, and though those other treasures are precious, they hold them lightly, trusting in God's providence regarding even those most prized possessions, knowing that to hold them too tightly would be replacing them with God in their affections, and that would be idolatry.
44) As we pour out our lives in service to God and our families, we do not measure success by the visible return on that investment, as if we are accountants keeping record on a balance sheet. In the economy of God's kingdom, our sacrifices are of great value, even though we may not see all the benefits now, or even in this life. We mustn't regret any effort given in service to our Savior, and we ought to follow the example of Paul who rejoiced to be "poured out as a drink offering" (II Timothy 4:6), knowing that in pouring himself out on the sacrifice and service of the faith of others, he did not labor in vain (Phillipians 2:16-17).
45) All things exist for the glory of God, even those small things which the world ignores or despises. Prairie Muffins, however, know they should not despise the "day of small things," and they gladly serve their God in tasks great and small, not for the glory they can gain for themselves, but for the joy of bringing glory to Him who has given them everything. Whether cooking yet another meal, folding yet another basket of laundry, or quelling yet another childish tiff, God is pleased with our faithful and cheerful service, and He promises to reward us with greater responsibility and joy (Matthew 25:21)
.46) A Prairie Muffin knows that excuses are unbecoming and low. She is able to take responsibility for her actions, and she doesn't cover up her sin when she stumbles. She wholeheartedly embraces the entirety of God's Word and lives in obedience to it all to the best of her ability, with His help, grateful that "His mercies are new every morning" (Lamentations 3:23). She may be an ordinary woman whose faith is sometimes halting, but she serves an extraordinary God whose faithfulness is great and who will enable her to do great things in His service.
47) Rather than acting like victims when trials come—and they will—Prairie Muffins act like victors in the midst of suffering, knowing that God sovereignly ordains their circumstances for their benefit and His glory. So no whining, excuses, or finger pointing, but be comforted and strengthened by God, knowing that you will one day have opportunity to help others with the comfort wherewith you were comforted.
48) Looking at the greener garden on the other side of the fence is very tempting. Prairie Muffins know, however, that what the world considers mundane—the serving they do in their homes among their families—is no less important than ministries or occupations which might seem to be more noble, but are outside their sphere of sovereignty. Instead, they look with new eyes at the important work in front of them, and they gladly dig in and show their children, their husbands, and the watching world, that getting their hands dirty in their own back yards is a glorious thing, especially when the redeeming work of making beauty out of that jungle finally bears fruit.
49) Though there are those who would portray the life of a Prairie Muffin as dreary drudgery, not meant for those elite women who are truly "gifted," we know that there is a wealth of riches to be found when we embrace this home-centered calling. There are many aspects of life at home which are mundane, repetitious, and sometimes unpleasant. The same is true of any job, even those which receive a weekly paycheck. But the privileges and important responsibilities of work anchored in home responsibilities soon outshine the difficulties which are really opportunities given by God for our benefit and sanctification. We are blessed to be at home where so much productivity takes place.
50) Prairie Muffins have been forgiven much, so they must forgive others. Our burden of sin was left at the cross, but it's a good idea to frequently go back to the cross and look at what we have left there to remember the great love by which our Savior purchased our pardon. That keeps our grievances in perspective and makes it easier to be patient with the offenses of others.
2) Prairie Muffins are helpmeets to their husbands, seeking creative and practical ways to further their husbands' callings and aid them in their dominion responsibilities.
3) Prairie Muffins are aware that God is in control of their ability to conceive and bear children, and they are content to allow Him to bless them as He chooses in this area.
4) Prairie Muffins seek to conform themselves to the image of God by not chafing at the trials and afflictions which He brings to them, but thankfully submitting to His loving providence as He makes them fit for heaven
.5) Prairie Muffins improve their intellect and knowledge as they have opportunity, first by seeking wisdom from God's word, then by reading good books and other materials which help them to make informed opinions about a wide variety of subjects.
6) Prairie Muffins dress modestly and in a feminine manner.
7) Prairie Muffins protect the innocence of their children, until such a time their children are mature enough to be exposed to potentially-harmful cultural influences.
8) Prairie Muffins are creative, learning new skills and working with their hands to provide items of beauty as well as utility for their families.
9) Prairie Muffins do not reflect badly on their husbands by neglecting their appearance; they work with the clay God has given, molding it into an attractive package for the pleasure of their husbands.
10) Prairie Muffins are patient and forbearing, not responding rashly to slights, perceived or real.
11) Prairie Muffins own aprons and they know how to use them
.12) Prairie Muffins prefer others above themselves, seeking to serve God by serving others, especially members of their own household.
13) Prairie Muffins practice hospitality, graciously, even when their home is not as perfect as they would like.
14) Prairie Muffins have a sense of humor, even in the midst of trials.
15) Prairie Muffins do not become paralyzed by fears and worries; rather, they see God's loving hand in all their circumstances.
16) Prairie Muffins are accomplished at organizing and delegating.
17) Prairie Muffins place their husbands' needs and desires above other obligations, arranging their schedules and responsibilities so that they do not neglect the one who provides for and protects them and their children.
18) Prairie Muffins are fiercely submissive to God and to their husbands.
19) Prairie Muffins appreciate godly role models, such as Anne Bradstreet, Elizabeth Prentiss and Elisabeth Elliot. They do not idolize Laura Ingalls Wilder (Little House on the Prairie) or Louisa May Alcott (Little Women); while they may enjoy aspects of home life presented in their books, PMs understand that the latent humanism and feminism in these stories and in the lives of these women is not worthy of emulation.
20) Prairie Muffins make significant economic contributions to their households in many ways. They are careful with the hard-earned money that their husbands bring home, wisely weighing expenditures to ensure that they stretch the dollars as far as they can go, without being parsimonious. They also may help their husbands in their husbands' callings or bring money into their households through homecentered business under their husbands' authority, as long as that activity does not detract from their very important homekeeping duties
.21) Prairie Muffins recognize that all good gifts come from the Father of Lights (James 1:17) and they also realize their privileged position as "home despot," thus they are grateful to God and their husbands for enabling them to engage in the wonderful role of homekeeper.
22) Prairie Muffins try to maintain a peaceful environment for their families by keeping their voices quiet and their tones gentle as much as possible.
23) While Prairie Muffins seek to have a multitude of wise counselors, they are careful not to elevate mere men and women to a position where they are tempted to idolize those whom they admire. They also are aware that all have weaknesses, and they accept this reality without discarding the good teaching of those godly people who may occasionally stumble in their weakness or with whom we sometimes must disagree.
24) It is not possible to fit Prairie Muffins into a box. They come in many shapes, sizes and flavors, they have a variety of talents and interests. All their pursuits, however, are weighed to see if they are pleasing to God and done in obedience to His will as revealed in His word.
25) Prairie Muffins are tough on themselves, but forgiving of the faults and differences of others, without sacrificing their commitment to truth and righteousness. This is sometimes a difficult balance, but one which Prairie Muffins strive to keep.
26) While they often may feel like they have split personalities because of the many hats they must wear, Prairie Muffins do have their feet firmly planted in two worlds: the now and the not yet. In the now, they must deal with the realities and disappointments of everyday life, praying for daily wisdom and walking by faith, not by sight, as God providentially directs their steps. In the not yet, they strive for the biblical ideals by which they determine the direction of their lives, understanding that they may fall short of these ideals as they struggle with their flesh and their circumstances, but trusting that God will honor their humble obedience with a more mature faith and the blessings that come from both the struggle and the obedience, in this life and in the next.
27) The letter "P" at the beginning of their names should be the only similarity between Prairie Mufffins and Pharisees. Never should the Prairie Muffin haughtily pray, "Thank God I am not like that...(fill in the blank)." Rather, she should always say, "There, but for the grace of God, go I." This is not to say that obedience to God's law is not important, however. Prairie Muffins gratefully accept the yoke that Christ places on them, and they seek to have the mind of Christ with the godly perspective which sees the burdens of our Lord as truly light; He is the One who gives us strength to carry those burdens, and He is even the One who carries them.
28) Prairie Muffins mind their own business. While that business may include encouraging other women "to love their husbands, to love their children, to be sensible, pure, workers at home, kind, being subject to their own husbands, so that the word of God will not be dishonored," it most emphatically excludes encouraging other women to run ahead of or resist the authority of their husbands or elders in pursuit of any PM distinctive.
29) Prairie Muffins are open to correction from proper authorities. They are responsible to submit to their own husbands, to their elders, and ultimately to God. If rebuked by these authorites a PM should receive such correction gracefully and gratefully. If rebuked by others, she should take the concern to her proper authorities.
30) "Home, Sweet Home" is more than just a sentimental saying for the Prairie Muffin. Her home is the center of the Prairie Muffin's activities. Of course, she needs to occasionally go away from home to engage in various activities related to her calling, but her focus is on making home a haven for her husband and children and using it to glorify God in whatever ministry to others He may call her. She is content in her home and does not see it as a prison from which she constantly must escape. She wisely rules over her domain by keeping busy in her full-time calling as homekeeper. Chocolate bon-bons may be a rare indulgence, but Prairie Muffins don't have the time or inclination to waste their lives on soap operas or other inane and inappropriate entertainment.
31) While Prairie Muffins try to be women who make plans and stick with them, so that they use their time wisely and reach the goals they and their Prairie Dawgs have determined for their families, they also know they must be flexible and be prepared to meet whatever circumstances fall into their laps, sometimes at a moment's notice, responding with grace and calm.
32) Though we abhor the idea of women being involved in the military and fighting battles which men are commanded to fight, Prairie Muffins recognize that there is a real battle in which they are on the front lines: the battle of the seed of the woman against the seed of the serpent. In this most-important conflict, we gratefully serve King Jesus in the capacity He has given us, waving our wooden spoons and rallying our children to stand alongside us in the battle, training them to be mighty warriors in the defense and furthering of God's kingdom.
33) Prairie Muffins are not clingy, they are clinging. There are many things in this world that it is tempting to grasp, even good things such as our homes, our marriages and our children. Our hands need to be firmly planted in the Savior's hand, not clinging to those things which are good gifts from Him, but clinging to His will for our lives. When those good things are sometimes taken away, we must accept what is better, knowing that our loving Father wants what is best for us.
34) A Prairie Muffin is generously affectionate with her children (and husband!), lavishing hugs and kisses on each one as a reminder of how precious they are to her.
35) This society worships rugged individualists, and lone ranger Christians are often the rule rather than the exception. While we know that it is becoming more difficult to find family-friendly and biblically-based churches, Prairie Muffins reject the notion that commitment to a local church is optional. We affirm the importance of the church in our families' lives, and we willingly submit to its leaders. It is our desire to raise children who are life-long worshipers in the pew and future leaders of strong churches.
36) Prairie Muffins are happy to be girls—they rejoice in the distinctives which God sovereignly bestowed on them which make them feminine. They are also happy that their husbands are masculine, and they do not diminish that masculinity by harping on habits which emanate from the fact that boys will be boys, even when they grow up. In addition, Prairie Muffins are careful not to use their feminine, hormotional weaknesses to excuse sinful attitudes and actions, but learn to depend more and more on God's grace and strength in the midst of any monthly trials.
37) Prairie Muffins may go against the flow, but they also know how to roll with the flow. Living moment by moment, day by day, season by season, they don't depend on present circumstances to dictate their direction in life. Circumstances change constantly, so Prairie Muffins hang tightly onto the Father's hand while they ride out the waves of life that ebb and flow past their doors. 38) The chief end of the Prairie Muffin is to glorify God and enjoy Him forever. Because she is not her own, but belongs to her faithful Savior Jesus Christ, she understands her responsibility to please Him in all she does, looking to His holy, inerrant Word for guidance in everything pertaining to life and godliness. As a Berean, she measures all she reads and hears against that plumbline, and she purposes to gratefully obey God's law, in His strength, because Jesus, the second person of the Trinity, said, "If you love Me, keep my commandments" (John 14:15). We understand that nothing we do will merit our salvation—that is only given through the imputation of Christ's righteousness to us—but serving our Lord is part of our sanctification. The Bible has some very specific things to say to women regarding their God-given role, and Prairie Muffins take those divinely-ordained distinctions very seriously.
39) Aware that they are being watched, rather than becoming paranoid—or annoyed—Prairie Muffins are employed* in setting a good example for those who have their eyes on them. We in no way wish to endorse adopting masks to hide the real "you," but we firmly believe that what is on the inside will show through, so we suggest remembering that there is no hiding the real you from those who know you best, i.e., your family. By God's grace we will continue to work on cleaning up our act, being that good example, knowing that "more attention our children pay to what we do than what we say."
40) The women who will have the greatest impact on the world, those who will have the greatest influence on history, are those "well-behaved" women who faithfully serve God in their daily lives, seeking His approval rather than the world's admiration. Prairie Muffins know that while engaging in the kingdom-building work in their homes of loving, training and disciplining their children, the world may not express its approval, but it will be turned upside down.
41) Self-fulfillment is not a motivation for the Prairie Muffin. As time flies by, she senses the urgency for living a "real" life, really living life for eternity. Our goal should be to please ourselves less and please God more: our pleasure should be pleasing God.
42) We are reminded in Proverbs 10:19, "In the multitude of words sin is not lacking, but he who restrains his lips is wise." Prairie Muffins must refrain from being mouthy, including online. It is not our place to always set everyone straight or tell everything we know. In fact, Proverbs also warns us not to answer a fool according to his folly (Proverbs 26:4), so pray for wisdom before unleashing your opinions like any fool with a keyboard. This entreaty to restraint particularly applies to battles of which you have no part. She who has ears to hear, read carefully the admonitions of the great Puritan preacher, Matthew Poole, on the issue of detraction, an admonition that is never more timely though written hundreds of years ago. Then go back to Proverbs, starting with chapter one, because if you want to be a Proverbs 31 woman, then that's the place to begin
43) There are many good things that Prairie Muffins love: their husbands, their children, their churches. But most of all, Prairie Muffins love their Lord and Savior Jesus Christ, and though those other treasures are precious, they hold them lightly, trusting in God's providence regarding even those most prized possessions, knowing that to hold them too tightly would be replacing them with God in their affections, and that would be idolatry.
44) As we pour out our lives in service to God and our families, we do not measure success by the visible return on that investment, as if we are accountants keeping record on a balance sheet. In the economy of God's kingdom, our sacrifices are of great value, even though we may not see all the benefits now, or even in this life. We mustn't regret any effort given in service to our Savior, and we ought to follow the example of Paul who rejoiced to be "poured out as a drink offering" (II Timothy 4:6), knowing that in pouring himself out on the sacrifice and service of the faith of others, he did not labor in vain (Phillipians 2:16-17).
45) All things exist for the glory of God, even those small things which the world ignores or despises. Prairie Muffins, however, know they should not despise the "day of small things," and they gladly serve their God in tasks great and small, not for the glory they can gain for themselves, but for the joy of bringing glory to Him who has given them everything. Whether cooking yet another meal, folding yet another basket of laundry, or quelling yet another childish tiff, God is pleased with our faithful and cheerful service, and He promises to reward us with greater responsibility and joy (Matthew 25:21)
.46) A Prairie Muffin knows that excuses are unbecoming and low. She is able to take responsibility for her actions, and she doesn't cover up her sin when she stumbles. She wholeheartedly embraces the entirety of God's Word and lives in obedience to it all to the best of her ability, with His help, grateful that "His mercies are new every morning" (Lamentations 3:23). She may be an ordinary woman whose faith is sometimes halting, but she serves an extraordinary God whose faithfulness is great and who will enable her to do great things in His service.
47) Rather than acting like victims when trials come—and they will—Prairie Muffins act like victors in the midst of suffering, knowing that God sovereignly ordains their circumstances for their benefit and His glory. So no whining, excuses, or finger pointing, but be comforted and strengthened by God, knowing that you will one day have opportunity to help others with the comfort wherewith you were comforted.
48) Looking at the greener garden on the other side of the fence is very tempting. Prairie Muffins know, however, that what the world considers mundane—the serving they do in their homes among their families—is no less important than ministries or occupations which might seem to be more noble, but are outside their sphere of sovereignty. Instead, they look with new eyes at the important work in front of them, and they gladly dig in and show their children, their husbands, and the watching world, that getting their hands dirty in their own back yards is a glorious thing, especially when the redeeming work of making beauty out of that jungle finally bears fruit.
49) Though there are those who would portray the life of a Prairie Muffin as dreary drudgery, not meant for those elite women who are truly "gifted," we know that there is a wealth of riches to be found when we embrace this home-centered calling. There are many aspects of life at home which are mundane, repetitious, and sometimes unpleasant. The same is true of any job, even those which receive a weekly paycheck. But the privileges and important responsibilities of work anchored in home responsibilities soon outshine the difficulties which are really opportunities given by God for our benefit and sanctification. We are blessed to be at home where so much productivity takes place.
50) Prairie Muffins have been forgiven much, so they must forgive others. Our burden of sin was left at the cross, but it's a good idea to frequently go back to the cross and look at what we have left there to remember the great love by which our Savior purchased our pardon. That keeps our grievances in perspective and makes it easier to be patient with the offenses of others.
Friday, July 25, 2008
Not Moving
I have very sad news..the contract fell through on our house, and our offer was not accepted on the house we were looking at. But on the bright side, I know where I will be when it is time to start home schooling! I am pretty sure we are going to take our house off the market for now. So I am sooo ready to bring my stuff back in the house. I am ready for my house to be MY home again. My husband says that it all happened the way it did for a reason, and I am sure it did..it is just hard to understand right now. I guess women are alot more emotional than men. Sometimes we just don't see eye to eye on things, but I do respect his decision and his place as the head of our household. I know that God has a plan for us, and maybe teaching us patience is part of the plan. I feel like God keeps whispering to me that He can see ahead of me..maybe He Is trying to tell me something..I don't know. I am disappointed in the ways things went, but I will get over it..life goes on. I have a beautiful family..a wonderful hard working husband, and so many other things to be thankful for. Thank you for all of your prayers, and I hope everyone has a wonderful weekend.
Great Salad
INGREDIENTS:
Note: Try to get all of the below organic, if you can. Most Super Wal-Marts will carry all or some of the below in organic form.
8 large leaves of Romaine lettuce, chopped or torn into a more edible size
1/5 cup or less of chopped onion
1 carrot, peeled and chopped
1 stalk of celery, chopped
Several thin slices of cucumber, diced
1 teaspoon of Dijon mustard
2 tablespoons of red wine vinegar
1/2 cup extra virgin olive oil
HOW TO MAKE IT:
1) Mix all vegetable ingredients in a large salad bowl
2) In a small, separate bowl, put in the Dijon mustard, and mix in the red wine vinegar
3) Slowly pour and stir the olive oil into the Dijon and red wine vinegar. You may find it easiest to mix this with a fork
4) Mix liquid mixture into the vegetables, and viola, you have your salad. :-)
Note: Try to get all of the below organic, if you can. Most Super Wal-Marts will carry all or some of the below in organic form.
8 large leaves of Romaine lettuce, chopped or torn into a more edible size
1/5 cup or less of chopped onion
1 carrot, peeled and chopped
1 stalk of celery, chopped
Several thin slices of cucumber, diced
1 teaspoon of Dijon mustard
2 tablespoons of red wine vinegar
1/2 cup extra virgin olive oil
HOW TO MAKE IT:
1) Mix all vegetable ingredients in a large salad bowl
2) In a small, separate bowl, put in the Dijon mustard, and mix in the red wine vinegar
3) Slowly pour and stir the olive oil into the Dijon and red wine vinegar. You may find it easiest to mix this with a fork
4) Mix liquid mixture into the vegetables, and viola, you have your salad. :-)
Thursday, July 24, 2008
Looking for a home
Here are a few pics of the house we are looking at now...I am trying very hard not to get attached this time until things are more sure..Have a great day.
Wednesday, July 23, 2008
50 uses for vinegar
From weirdfacts.com
Kill grass on walks and driveways.
Kill weeds. Spray full strength on growth until plants have starved.
Increase soil acidity. In hard water: one gallon of tap water for watering rhododendrums, gardenias, or azaleas.
Deter ants. Spray vinegar around doors, appliances, and along other areas where ants are known.
Polish car chrome. Apply full strength.
Remove skunk odor from a dog. Rub fur with full strength vinegar; rinse.
Keep cats away. Sprinkle vinegar on areas you don't want the cat walking, sleeping, or scratching on.
Keep dogs from scratching his ears. Use a clean, soft cloth dipped in diluted vinegar.
Keep chickens from pecking each other. Put a little in their drinking water.
Tenderize meat. Soak in vinegar over night.
Freshen vegetables. Soak wilted vegetables in 2 cups of water and a tablespoon of vinegar.
Boil better eggs. Add 2 tablespoons to water before boiling eggs. Keeps them from cracking.
Soothe a bee or jellyfish sting. Dot the irritation with vinegar and relieve itching.
Relieve sunburn. Lightly rub white vinegar; you may have to reapply.
Condition hair. Add a tablespoon of vinegar to dissolve sticky residue left by shampoo.
Relieve dry and itchy skin. Add 2 tablespoons to bath water.
Fight dandruff. After shampooing, rinse with vinegar and 2 cups of warm water.
Soothe a sore throat. Put a teaspoon of vinegar in a glass of water. Gargle and then swallow.
Treat sinus infections and chest colds. Add 1/4 cup or more vinegar to the vaporizer.
Feel good. A teaspoon of apple cider vinegar in a glass of water, with a bit of honey added for flavor, will take the edge off your appetite and give you an overall healthy feeling.
Deodorize the kitchen drain. Pour a cup down the drain once a week. Let stand 30 minutes and then flush with cold water.
Eliminate onion odor. Rub on your fingers before and after slicing.
Clean and disinfect wood cutting boards. Wipe with full strength vinegar.
Remove fruit stains from hands. Rub with vinegar.
Cut grease and odor on dishes. Add a tablespoon of vinegar to hot soapy water.
Clean a teapot. Boil a mixture of water and vinegar in the teapot. Wipe away the grime.
Freshen a lunchbox. Soak a piece of bread in vinegar and let it sit in the lunchbox over night.
Clean the refrigerator. Wash with a solution of equal parts water and vinegar.
Unclog a drain. Pour a handful of baking soda down the drain and add 1/2 cup of vinegar. Rinse with hot water.
Clean and deodorize the garbage disposal. Make vinegar ice cubes and feed them down the disposal. After grinding, run cold water through
Clean and deodorize jars. Rinse mayonnaise, peanut butter, and mustard jars with vinegar when empty.
Clean the dishwasher. Run a cup of vinegar through the whole cycle once a month to reduce soap build up on the inner mechanisms and on glassware.
Clean stainless steel. Wipe with a vinegar dampened cloth.
Clean china and fine glassware. Add a cup of vinegar to a sink of warm water. Gently dip the glass or china in the solution and let dry.
Get stains out of pots. Fill pot with a solution of 3 tablespoons of vinegar to a pint of water. Boil until stain loosens and can be washed away.
Clean the microwave. Boil a solution of 1/4 cup of vinegar and 1 cup of water in the microwave. Will loosen splattered on food and deodorize.
Dissolve rust from bolts and other metals. Soak in full strength vinegar.
Get rid of cooking smells. Let simmer a small pot of vinegar and water solution.
Unclog steam iron. Pour equal amounts of vinegar and water into the iron's water chamber.
Turn to steam and leave the iron on for 5 minutes in an upright position. Then unplug and allow to cool. Any loose particles should come out when you empty the water.
Clean a scorched iron plate. Heat equal parts vinegar and salt in a small pan. Rub solution on the cooled iron surface to remove dark or burned stains.
Get rid of lint in clothes. Add 1/2 cup of vinegar to the rinse cycle.
Keep colors from running. Immerse clothes in full strength vinegar before washing.
Freshen up the washing machine. Periodically, pour a cup of vinegar in the machine and let in run through a regular cycle (no clothes added). Will dissolve soap residue.
Brighten fabric colors. Add a 1/2 cup vinegar to the rinse cycle.
Take grease off suede. Dip a toothbrush in vinegar and gently brush over grease spot.
Remove tough stains. Gently rub on fruit, jam, mustard, coffee, tea. Then wash as usual.
Get smoke smell out of clothes. Add a cup of vinegar to a bath tub of hot water. Hang clothes above the steam.
Remove decals. Brush with a couple coats of vinegar. Allow to soak in. Wash off.
Clean eyeglasses. Wipe each lens with a drop of vinegar.
Freshen cut flowers. Add 2 tablespoons vinegar and 1 teaspoon sugar for each quart of water.
Kill grass on walks and driveways.
Kill weeds. Spray full strength on growth until plants have starved.
Increase soil acidity. In hard water: one gallon of tap water for watering rhododendrums, gardenias, or azaleas.
Deter ants. Spray vinegar around doors, appliances, and along other areas where ants are known.
Polish car chrome. Apply full strength.
Remove skunk odor from a dog. Rub fur with full strength vinegar; rinse.
Keep cats away. Sprinkle vinegar on areas you don't want the cat walking, sleeping, or scratching on.
Keep dogs from scratching his ears. Use a clean, soft cloth dipped in diluted vinegar.
Keep chickens from pecking each other. Put a little in their drinking water.
Tenderize meat. Soak in vinegar over night.
Freshen vegetables. Soak wilted vegetables in 2 cups of water and a tablespoon of vinegar.
Boil better eggs. Add 2 tablespoons to water before boiling eggs. Keeps them from cracking.
Soothe a bee or jellyfish sting. Dot the irritation with vinegar and relieve itching.
Relieve sunburn. Lightly rub white vinegar; you may have to reapply.
Condition hair. Add a tablespoon of vinegar to dissolve sticky residue left by shampoo.
Relieve dry and itchy skin. Add 2 tablespoons to bath water.
Fight dandruff. After shampooing, rinse with vinegar and 2 cups of warm water.
Soothe a sore throat. Put a teaspoon of vinegar in a glass of water. Gargle and then swallow.
Treat sinus infections and chest colds. Add 1/4 cup or more vinegar to the vaporizer.
Feel good. A teaspoon of apple cider vinegar in a glass of water, with a bit of honey added for flavor, will take the edge off your appetite and give you an overall healthy feeling.
Deodorize the kitchen drain. Pour a cup down the drain once a week. Let stand 30 minutes and then flush with cold water.
Eliminate onion odor. Rub on your fingers before and after slicing.
Clean and disinfect wood cutting boards. Wipe with full strength vinegar.
Remove fruit stains from hands. Rub with vinegar.
Cut grease and odor on dishes. Add a tablespoon of vinegar to hot soapy water.
Clean a teapot. Boil a mixture of water and vinegar in the teapot. Wipe away the grime.
Freshen a lunchbox. Soak a piece of bread in vinegar and let it sit in the lunchbox over night.
Clean the refrigerator. Wash with a solution of equal parts water and vinegar.
Unclog a drain. Pour a handful of baking soda down the drain and add 1/2 cup of vinegar. Rinse with hot water.
Clean and deodorize the garbage disposal. Make vinegar ice cubes and feed them down the disposal. After grinding, run cold water through
Clean and deodorize jars. Rinse mayonnaise, peanut butter, and mustard jars with vinegar when empty.
Clean the dishwasher. Run a cup of vinegar through the whole cycle once a month to reduce soap build up on the inner mechanisms and on glassware.
Clean stainless steel. Wipe with a vinegar dampened cloth.
Clean china and fine glassware. Add a cup of vinegar to a sink of warm water. Gently dip the glass or china in the solution and let dry.
Get stains out of pots. Fill pot with a solution of 3 tablespoons of vinegar to a pint of water. Boil until stain loosens and can be washed away.
Clean the microwave. Boil a solution of 1/4 cup of vinegar and 1 cup of water in the microwave. Will loosen splattered on food and deodorize.
Dissolve rust from bolts and other metals. Soak in full strength vinegar.
Get rid of cooking smells. Let simmer a small pot of vinegar and water solution.
Unclog steam iron. Pour equal amounts of vinegar and water into the iron's water chamber.
Turn to steam and leave the iron on for 5 minutes in an upright position. Then unplug and allow to cool. Any loose particles should come out when you empty the water.
Clean a scorched iron plate. Heat equal parts vinegar and salt in a small pan. Rub solution on the cooled iron surface to remove dark or burned stains.
Get rid of lint in clothes. Add 1/2 cup of vinegar to the rinse cycle.
Keep colors from running. Immerse clothes in full strength vinegar before washing.
Freshen up the washing machine. Periodically, pour a cup of vinegar in the machine and let in run through a regular cycle (no clothes added). Will dissolve soap residue.
Brighten fabric colors. Add a 1/2 cup vinegar to the rinse cycle.
Take grease off suede. Dip a toothbrush in vinegar and gently brush over grease spot.
Remove tough stains. Gently rub on fruit, jam, mustard, coffee, tea. Then wash as usual.
Get smoke smell out of clothes. Add a cup of vinegar to a bath tub of hot water. Hang clothes above the steam.
Remove decals. Brush with a couple coats of vinegar. Allow to soak in. Wash off.
Clean eyeglasses. Wipe each lens with a drop of vinegar.
Freshen cut flowers. Add 2 tablespoons vinegar and 1 teaspoon sugar for each quart of water.
Monday, July 21, 2008
House update
It has been a very busy weekend..I think we drove around the world..For those who don't know, we are NOT getting the house that we wanted. It didn't work out. I guess the Lord had other plans for us. We have been looking for another house all weekend, and finally found something that we are interested in. It is still country, just not out as far. My son could still play football, so it does have its advantages. He really wants to play, so that was good news to him.The house has a pool, so the kids will be happy. I love the inside of the house..the master bedroom is great! It is a split level house and the master is down the stairs. It has a fireplace in that room! :-) It has lots of closets and cable is actually an option for Internet....it would not have been at the other house. We are praying about it, so if the Lord has led us here, then it will work out. Please help us pray and I hope you all have a wonderful day!
Deut. 6:5-7
5 And thou shalt love the LORD thy God with all thine heart, and with all thy soul, and with all thy might. 6 And these words, which I command thee this day, shall be in thine heart: 7 And thou shalt teach them diligently unto thy children, and shalt talk of them when thou sittest in thine house, and when thou walkest by the way, and when thou liest down, and when thou risest up
Sunday, July 20, 2008
How to Make Homemade Buttermilk
How to Make Homemade Buttermilk
EQUIPMENT NEEDED
- a 1 quart mason jar
INGREDIENTS NEEDED
- Whole milk (store bought is fine, but don't use "ultra-pasteurized." Whole pasteurized and homogenized milk is fine, and so is whole raw milk.)
- 2 tablespoons of a previous made batch of buttermilk, or two tablespoons of store bought buttermilk (this is your starter)
HOW TO MAKE IT
1. Put two tablespoons of store bought or homemade buttermilk into a 1 quart mason jar.
2. Then fill the mason jar up with whole milk.
3. Seal the jar, and shake it well.
4. Place the jar into a dark kitchen cupboard, and leave it there for 12-20 hours.
5. After 12-20 hours, shake the jar and place it into the fridge. After it has cooled in the fridge, you have official buttermilk.
It may end up being a lot thicker than store bought.
This will be used to make whole wheat pancakes..so stay tuned for that tomorrow.Have a great day with your family! God bless!
EQUIPMENT NEEDED
- a 1 quart mason jar
INGREDIENTS NEEDED
- Whole milk (store bought is fine, but don't use "ultra-pasteurized." Whole pasteurized and homogenized milk is fine, and so is whole raw milk.)
- 2 tablespoons of a previous made batch of buttermilk, or two tablespoons of store bought buttermilk (this is your starter)
HOW TO MAKE IT
1. Put two tablespoons of store bought or homemade buttermilk into a 1 quart mason jar.
2. Then fill the mason jar up with whole milk.
3. Seal the jar, and shake it well.
4. Place the jar into a dark kitchen cupboard, and leave it there for 12-20 hours.
5. After 12-20 hours, shake the jar and place it into the fridge. After it has cooled in the fridge, you have official buttermilk.
It may end up being a lot thicker than store bought.
This will be used to make whole wheat pancakes..so stay tuned for that tomorrow.Have a great day with your family! God bless!
Saturday, July 19, 2008
Friday, July 18, 2008
What is a lady?
This is from Candy's website.
A lady doesn't nag or complain to her husband:It is better to dwell in the wilderness, than with a contentious and an angry woman. -Proverbs 21:19
A continual dropping in a very rainy day and a contentious woman are alike. -Proverbs 27:15
She is a keeper of her home and submits to her husband:To be discreet, chaste, keepers at home, good, obedient to their own husbands, that the word of God be not blasphemed. -Titus 2:5
She chastens, trains, and keeps her children with her:
The rod and reproof give wisdom: but a child left to himself bringeth his mother to shame. -Proverbs 29:15
She wears beautiful, flowing, modest clothes (like dresses):
In like manner also, that women adorn themselves in modest apparel [katastole], with shamefacedness and sobriety; not with broided hair, or gold, or pearls, or costly array; -1 Timothy 2:9
Katastole - long, flowing garment. (Pants are generally not long and flowing)
She does not partake in gossip, tale bearing, slander, or other forms of frowardness of the tongue:
Thou shalt not go up and down as a talebearer among thy people: neither shalt thou stand against the blood of thy neighbour; I am the LORD. -Leviticus 19:16
Where no wood is, there the fire goeth out: so where there is no talebearer, the strife ceaseth. -Proverbs 26:20
The lips of the righteous know what is acceptable: but the mouth of the wicked speaketh frowardness. -Proverbs 10:32
A lady wears beautiful clothing that draws attention to her face and countenance. She takes her job of taking care of her husband, children, and house very seriously, and does her best to bless them, as if she were doing her domestic duties for the Lord Himself.She is not idle, for she knows that idle time leads to idol time. She instills this principle into her children as well.
A lady knows that nobody and no day is perfect. She greets each day as a brand new day, with brand new unknowns. She looks to the Lord as her source of peace, comfort, joy, and wisdom, and faces each day with a smile, knowing that her Redeemer liveth, and He careth for her.
Thursday, July 17, 2008
Good morning!
Good Morning! Here is my update...we have a contract in on our house, so hopefully it will all go smoothly and the sale will go through. As far as I know, we are getting the house in Pickens. My husband is going to add a couple of rooms to it right away to get the appraisal up. We are headed to the dentist this morning, so I have started some quick bread for breakfast,fed my sour dough starter, made tea, loaded the dishwasher, and drank my coffee. Our realtor wants us to stay "show ready" for another week or so, so I have to have the house clean before we head to the dentist.
We are trying to think of some cute, CHEAP ideas to decorate Alexis bedroom at the new house..any one want to share? (comments would be appreciated:-) One thing we are going to do is string a clothes line across and use different color pins to hang her pictures. I found this idea on the web yesterday. We need some ideas for a head board for the bed and also some way to store clothes other than the typical dresser etc..She loves color, so please share your ideas.
I hope all is going well with all of you and hope you have a great day! God bless!
We are trying to think of some cute, CHEAP ideas to decorate Alexis bedroom at the new house..any one want to share? (comments would be appreciated:-) One thing we are going to do is string a clothes line across and use different color pins to hang her pictures. I found this idea on the web yesterday. We need some ideas for a head board for the bed and also some way to store clothes other than the typical dresser etc..She loves color, so please share your ideas.
I hope all is going well with all of you and hope you have a great day! God bless!
Wednesday, July 16, 2008
Proverbs 31
The Virtuous Wife
10 Who can find a virtuous wife?
For her worth is far above rubies.
11 The heart of her husband safely trusts her;
So he will have no lack of gain.
12 She does him good and not evil
All the days of her life.
13 She seeks wool and flax,
And willingly works with her hands.
14 She is like the merchant ships,
She brings her food from afar.
15 She also rises while it is yet night,
And provides food for her household,
And a portion for her maidservants.
16 She considers a field and buys it;
From her profits she plants a vineyard.
17 She girds herself with strength,
And strengthens her arms.
18 She perceives that her merchandise is good,
And her lamp does not go out by night.
19 She stretches out her hands to the distaff,
And her hand holds the spindle.
20 She extends her hand to the poor,
Yes, she reaches out her hands to the needy.
21 She is not afraid of snow for her household,
For all her household is clothed with scarlet.
22 She makes tapestry for herself;
Her clothing is fine linen and purple.
23 Her husband is known in the gates,
When he sits among the elders of the land.
24 She makes linen garments and sells them,
And supplies sashes for the merchants.
25 Strength and honor are her clothing;
She shall rejoice in time to come.
26 She opens her mouth with wisdom,
And on her tongue is the law of kindness.
27 She watches over the ways of her household,
And does not eat the bread of idleness.
28 Her children rise up and call her blessed;
Her husband also, and he praises her:
29 “ Many daughters have done well,
But you excel them all.”
30 Charm is deceitful and beauty is passing,
But a woman who fears the LORD, she shall be praised.
31 Give her of the fruit of her hands,
And let her own works praise her in the gates
10 Who can find a virtuous wife?
For her worth is far above rubies.
11 The heart of her husband safely trusts her;
So he will have no lack of gain.
12 She does him good and not evil
All the days of her life.
13 She seeks wool and flax,
And willingly works with her hands.
14 She is like the merchant ships,
She brings her food from afar.
15 She also rises while it is yet night,
And provides food for her household,
And a portion for her maidservants.
16 She considers a field and buys it;
From her profits she plants a vineyard.
17 She girds herself with strength,
And strengthens her arms.
18 She perceives that her merchandise is good,
And her lamp does not go out by night.
19 She stretches out her hands to the distaff,
And her hand holds the spindle.
20 She extends her hand to the poor,
Yes, she reaches out her hands to the needy.
21 She is not afraid of snow for her household,
For all her household is clothed with scarlet.
22 She makes tapestry for herself;
Her clothing is fine linen and purple.
23 Her husband is known in the gates,
When he sits among the elders of the land.
24 She makes linen garments and sells them,
And supplies sashes for the merchants.
25 Strength and honor are her clothing;
She shall rejoice in time to come.
26 She opens her mouth with wisdom,
And on her tongue is the law of kindness.
27 She watches over the ways of her household,
And does not eat the bread of idleness.
28 Her children rise up and call her blessed;
Her husband also, and he praises her:
29 “ Many daughters have done well,
But you excel them all.”
30 Charm is deceitful and beauty is passing,
But a woman who fears the LORD, she shall be praised.
31 Give her of the fruit of her hands,
And let her own works praise her in the gates
Tuesday, July 15, 2008
Quick update
Good Morning! We just got home from vacation, and I just wanted to quickly update on what's going on..It has been a busy weekend. We left last Thursday to go to Pigeon Forge, and we got home last night around nine. We went to Dollywood,went shopping, rode go carts, and played laser tag..etc..and ate and ate, and ate..:-) It is definitely time to go on a diet! We had a great time, but it is really good to be home..my bed felt great last night. Anyway, we have had an offer on our house and I think we have almost came to an agreement, and I am almost positive that Jamie has found a way for us to get the house we were wanting to buy. I am so excited about the new house! I will keep you posted on how that is going..but for now, I have to get busy unpacking and getting things back in order! My Kombucha has been brewing for way too long, so I am going to get that poured up now. Have a great day!
Thursday, July 10, 2008
Scriptures for the Christian Wife/Homemaker
To be sober, to love their husbands, to love
their children, To be discreet, chaste, keepers at
home, good, obedient to their own husbands,
that the word of God be not blasphemed. –
Titus 2:4b-5
She looketh well to the ways of her household,
and eateth not the bread of idleness. Her
children arise up, and call her blessed; her
husband also, and he praiseth her. –Proverbs
31:27-28
But I would have you know, that the head of
every man is Christ; and the head of the woman is
the man; and the head of Christ is God. –1
Corinthians 11:3
There is neither Jew nor Greek, there is neither
bond nor free, there is neither male nor female: for
ye are all one in Christ Jesus. -Galatians 3:28
Be sober, be vigilant; because your adversary the
devil, as a roaring lion, walketh about, seeking
whom he may devour -1 Peter 5:8
The fear of the LORD is the beginning of
knowledge: but fools despise wisdom and
instruction. –Proverbs 1:7
Put away from thee a froward mouth, and perverse
lips put far from thee. –Proverbs 4:24
Behold, we put bits in the horses' mouths, that
they may obey us; and we turn about their whole
body. Behold also the ships, which though they be
so great, and are driven of fierce winds, yet are
they turned about with a very small helm,
whithersoever the governor listeth. Even so the
tongue is a little member, and boasteth great
things. Behold, how great a matter a little fire
kindleth! And the tongue is a fire, a world of
iniquity: so is the tongue among our members, that
it defileth the whole body, and setteth on fire the
course of nature; and it is set on fire of hell. For
every kind of beasts, and of birds, and of serpents,
and of things in the sea, is tamed, and hath been
tamed of mankind: But the tongue can no man
tame; it is an unruly evil, full of deadly poison.
Therewith bless we God, even the Father; and
therewith curse we men, which are made after the
similitude of God. Out of the same mouth
proceedeth blessing and cursing. My brethren, these
things ought not so to be. Doth a fountain send
forth at the same place sweet water and bitter?
Can the fig tree, my brethren, bear olive berries?
either a vine, figs? so can no fountain both yield
salt water and fresh. Who is a wise man and
endued with knowledge among you? let him shew
out of a good conversation his works with
meekness of wisdom. But if ye have bitter envying
and strife in your hearts, glory not, and lie not
against the truth. This wisdom descendeth not
from above, but is earthly, sensual, devilish. For
where envying and strife is, there is confusion and
every evil work. But the wisdom that is from above
is first pure, then peaceable, gentle, and easy to be
intreated, full of mercy and good fruits, without
partiality, and without hypocrisy. And the fruit of
righteousness is sown in peace of them that make
peace. –James 3:3-18
But let it be the hidden man of the heart, in that
which is not corruptible, even the ornament of a
meek and quiet spirit, which is in the sight of God
of great price. –1 Peter 3:4
Casting down imaginations, and every high thing
that exalteth itself against the knowledge of God,
and bringing into captivity every thought to the
obedience of Christ; -2 Corinthians 10:5
These six things doth the LORD hate: yea, seven
are an abomination unto him: A proud look, a
lying tongue, and hands that shed innocent blood,
An heart that deviseth wicked imaginations, feet
that be swift in running to mischief, A false
witness that speaketh lies, and he that soweth
discord among brethren. -Proverbs 6:16-19
She looketh well to the ways of her household,
and eateth not the bread of idleness. Her
children arise up, and call her blessed; her
husband also, and he praiseth her. –Proverbs
31:27-28
their children, To be discreet, chaste, keepers at
home, good, obedient to their own husbands,
that the word of God be not blasphemed. –
Titus 2:4b-5
She looketh well to the ways of her household,
and eateth not the bread of idleness. Her
children arise up, and call her blessed; her
husband also, and he praiseth her. –Proverbs
31:27-28
But I would have you know, that the head of
every man is Christ; and the head of the woman is
the man; and the head of Christ is God. –1
Corinthians 11:3
There is neither Jew nor Greek, there is neither
bond nor free, there is neither male nor female: for
ye are all one in Christ Jesus. -Galatians 3:28
Be sober, be vigilant; because your adversary the
devil, as a roaring lion, walketh about, seeking
whom he may devour -1 Peter 5:8
The fear of the LORD is the beginning of
knowledge: but fools despise wisdom and
instruction. –Proverbs 1:7
Put away from thee a froward mouth, and perverse
lips put far from thee. –Proverbs 4:24
Behold, we put bits in the horses' mouths, that
they may obey us; and we turn about their whole
body. Behold also the ships, which though they be
so great, and are driven of fierce winds, yet are
they turned about with a very small helm,
whithersoever the governor listeth. Even so the
tongue is a little member, and boasteth great
things. Behold, how great a matter a little fire
kindleth! And the tongue is a fire, a world of
iniquity: so is the tongue among our members, that
it defileth the whole body, and setteth on fire the
course of nature; and it is set on fire of hell. For
every kind of beasts, and of birds, and of serpents,
and of things in the sea, is tamed, and hath been
tamed of mankind: But the tongue can no man
tame; it is an unruly evil, full of deadly poison.
Therewith bless we God, even the Father; and
therewith curse we men, which are made after the
similitude of God. Out of the same mouth
proceedeth blessing and cursing. My brethren, these
things ought not so to be. Doth a fountain send
forth at the same place sweet water and bitter?
Can the fig tree, my brethren, bear olive berries?
either a vine, figs? so can no fountain both yield
salt water and fresh. Who is a wise man and
endued with knowledge among you? let him shew
out of a good conversation his works with
meekness of wisdom. But if ye have bitter envying
and strife in your hearts, glory not, and lie not
against the truth. This wisdom descendeth not
from above, but is earthly, sensual, devilish. For
where envying and strife is, there is confusion and
every evil work. But the wisdom that is from above
is first pure, then peaceable, gentle, and easy to be
intreated, full of mercy and good fruits, without
partiality, and without hypocrisy. And the fruit of
righteousness is sown in peace of them that make
peace. –James 3:3-18
But let it be the hidden man of the heart, in that
which is not corruptible, even the ornament of a
meek and quiet spirit, which is in the sight of God
of great price. –1 Peter 3:4
Casting down imaginations, and every high thing
that exalteth itself against the knowledge of God,
and bringing into captivity every thought to the
obedience of Christ; -2 Corinthians 10:5
These six things doth the LORD hate: yea, seven
are an abomination unto him: A proud look, a
lying tongue, and hands that shed innocent blood,
An heart that deviseth wicked imaginations, feet
that be swift in running to mischief, A false
witness that speaketh lies, and he that soweth
discord among brethren. -Proverbs 6:16-19
She looketh well to the ways of her household,
and eateth not the bread of idleness. Her
children arise up, and call her blessed; her
husband also, and he praiseth her. –Proverbs
31:27-28
Wednesday, July 9, 2008
Paula Deen's cream biscuits
2 cups self-rising flour (I use white lily)
1 1/2 cups heavy whipping cream
1 Tbs. sugar
Preheat oven 450-500 (according to how hot your oven REALLY gets)
Sift flour into a medium bowl, add sugar stir,
add cream, stir until dough forms a ball (no more than you have to)
Turn dough onto floured surface
fold dough in half and knead 5-7 times, adding just enough flour to keep the dough from sticking to your hands. Gently roll our dough to 1/2" thickness (if using a rolling pin, roll criss cross, not just straight back and forth)
With biscuit cutter, coated with flour, cut dough into biscuits, and place on baking sheet that has been coated with crisco or cooking spray.
Bake for 10 minutes or until golden brown
Optional- Brush with melted butter when finished, serve with honey..mmm...good
For best results, use an aluminum cookiet sheet (keeps the bottoms of biscuits from turning dark)
Advice from flylady
FlyLady's Eleven Commandments
Keep your sink clean and shiny.
Get dressed every morning, even if you don’t feel like it. Don’t forget your lace-up shoes.
Do your morning and before bedtime routine everyday.
Don’t allow yourself to be sidetracked by the computer.
Pick up after yourself. If you get it out, put it away.
Don’t try to do two projects at once. ONE JOB AT A TIME.
Don’t pull out more than you can put back in one hour.
Do something for yourself everyday, maybe every morning and night.
Work as fast as you can to get the job done. This will give you more time to play later.
Smile even when you don’t feel like it. It is contagious. Make your mind up to be happy and you will be.
Don’t forget to laugh everyday. Pamper yourself, you deserve it.
Keep your sink clean and shiny.
Get dressed every morning, even if you don’t feel like it. Don’t forget your lace-up shoes.
Do your morning and before bedtime routine everyday.
Don’t allow yourself to be sidetracked by the computer.
Pick up after yourself. If you get it out, put it away.
Don’t try to do two projects at once. ONE JOB AT A TIME.
Don’t pull out more than you can put back in one hour.
Do something for yourself everyday, maybe every morning and night.
Work as fast as you can to get the job done. This will give you more time to play later.
Smile even when you don’t feel like it. It is contagious. Make your mind up to be happy and you will be.
Don’t forget to laugh everyday. Pamper yourself, you deserve it.
Tuesday, July 8, 2008
Cream cheese and whey
This is how I learned to make cream cheese and whey from Candy's blog
INGREDIENTS
4 cups of natural full fat (not low fat or fat-free) plain Yoghurt (this can be homemade, or store bought)
EQUIPMENT
- A juice container
- A small strainer with a handle that can sit on top of the juice container
- Some potato sack (can be purchased in the dish towel section at Wal-Mart)
- Plastic wrap
HOW TO MAKE IT
1. Place the strainer over the juice container, and put the potato sack over the strainer.
2. Put the yoghurt onto the potato sack that's in the strainer over the juice container.
3. Place plastic wrap over the top of the yoghurt to prevent contamination, then put the whole contraption into the fridge.
4. Wait 24 hours, then remove the contraption from the fridge. In the juice container will be some yellowish whey, and in the potato sack in the strainer will be cream cheese. :-P
Essentially, you just separated the whey from the cream in the yoghurt. :-)
I usually put the cream cheese in a small container, and it sits on a shelf in the fridge. I pour the whey into a mason jar, and it sits on the top shelf in the fridge. I use the cream cheese on bread quite often, and I use the whey in food preparation a lot.
INGREDIENTS
4 cups of natural full fat (not low fat or fat-free) plain Yoghurt (this can be homemade, or store bought)
EQUIPMENT
- A juice container
- A small strainer with a handle that can sit on top of the juice container
- Some potato sack (can be purchased in the dish towel section at Wal-Mart)
- Plastic wrap
HOW TO MAKE IT
1. Place the strainer over the juice container, and put the potato sack over the strainer.
2. Put the yoghurt onto the potato sack that's in the strainer over the juice container.
3. Place plastic wrap over the top of the yoghurt to prevent contamination, then put the whole contraption into the fridge.
4. Wait 24 hours, then remove the contraption from the fridge. In the juice container will be some yellowish whey, and in the potato sack in the strainer will be cream cheese. :-P
Essentially, you just separated the whey from the cream in the yoghurt. :-)
I usually put the cream cheese in a small container, and it sits on a shelf in the fridge. I pour the whey into a mason jar, and it sits on the top shelf in the fridge. I use the cream cheese on bread quite often, and I use the whey in food preparation a lot.
Why Doesn't God Answer?
Why Doesn't God Answer?
Not long ago I heard a story about a young man and an old preacher. The young man had lost his job and didn't know which way to turn. So he went to see the old preacher.
Pacing about the preacher's study, the young man ranted about his problem. Finally he clenched his fist and shouted, "I've begged God to say something to help me. Tell me, Preacher, why doesn't God answer?"
The old preacher, who sat across the room, spoke something in reply--something so hushed it was indistinguishable. The young man stepped across the room. "What did you say?" he asked.
The preacher repeated himself, but again in a tone as soft as a whisper. So the young man moved closer until he was leaning on the preacher's chair. "Sorry," he said. "I still didn't hear you." With their heads bent together, the old preacher spoke once more. "God sometimes whispers," he said, "so we will move closer to hear Him."
This time the young man heard and he understood. We all want God's voice to thunder through the air with the answer to our problem. But God's is the still, small voice. . .the gentle whisper.
Perhaps there's a reason. Nothing draws human focus quite like a whisper. God's whisper means I must stop my ranting and move close to Him, until my head is bent together with His. And then, as I listen, I will find my answer. Better still, I find myself closer to God.
Not long ago I heard a story about a young man and an old preacher. The young man had lost his job and didn't know which way to turn. So he went to see the old preacher.
Pacing about the preacher's study, the young man ranted about his problem. Finally he clenched his fist and shouted, "I've begged God to say something to help me. Tell me, Preacher, why doesn't God answer?"
The old preacher, who sat across the room, spoke something in reply--something so hushed it was indistinguishable. The young man stepped across the room. "What did you say?" he asked.
The preacher repeated himself, but again in a tone as soft as a whisper. So the young man moved closer until he was leaning on the preacher's chair. "Sorry," he said. "I still didn't hear you." With their heads bent together, the old preacher spoke once more. "God sometimes whispers," he said, "so we will move closer to hear Him."
This time the young man heard and he understood. We all want God's voice to thunder through the air with the answer to our problem. But God's is the still, small voice. . .the gentle whisper.
Perhaps there's a reason. Nothing draws human focus quite like a whisper. God's whisper means I must stop my ranting and move close to Him, until my head is bent together with His. And then, as I listen, I will find my answer. Better still, I find myself closer to God.
Monday, July 7, 2008
Being A Mother
Being A Mother
We are sitting at lunch when my daughter casually mentions that she and her husband are thinking of "starting a family."
"We're taking a survey," she says, half-joking. "Do you think I should have a baby?"
"It will change your life," I say, carefully keeping my tone neutral. "I know," she says, "no more sleeping in on weekends, no more spontaneous vacations...."
But that is not what I meant at all. I look at my daughter, trying to decide what to tell her. I want her to know what she will never learn in childbirth classes. I want to tell her that the physical wounds of child bearing will heal, but that becoming a mother will leave her with an emotional wound so raw that she will forever be vulnerable.
I consider warning her that she will never again read a newspaper without asking "What if that had been MY child?" That every plane crash, every house fire will haunt her. That when she sees pictures of starving children, she will wonder if anything could be worse than watching your child die.
I look at her carefully manicured nails and stylish suit and think that no matter how sophisticated she is, becoming a mother will reduce her to the primitive level of a bear protecting her cub. That an urgent call of "Mom!" will cause her to drop a souffle or her best crystal without a moment's hesitation.
I feel I should warn her that no matter how many years she has invested in her career, she will be professionally derailed by motherhood. She might arrange for childcare, but one day she will be going into an important business meeting and she will think of her baby's sweet smell. She will have to use every ounce of her discipline to keep from running home, just to make sure her baby is all right.
I want my daughter to know that everyday decisions will no longer be routine. That a five year old boy's desire to go to the men's room rather than the women's at McDonald's will become a major dilemma. That right there, in the midst of clattering trays and screaming children, issues of independence and gender identity will be weighed against the prospect that a child molester may be lurking in that restroom. However decisive she may be at the office, she will second-guess herself constantly as a mother.
Looking at my attractive daughter, I want to assure her that eventually she will shed the pounds of pregnancy, but she will never feel the same about herself. That her life, now so important, will be of less value to her once she has a child. That she would give it up in a moment to save her offspring, but will also begin to hope for more years -- not to accomplish her own dreams, but to watch her child accomplish theirs.
I want her to know that a cesarean scar or shiny stretch marks will become badges of honor. My daughter's relationship with her husband will change, but not in the way she thinks. I wish she could understand how much more you can love a man who is careful to powder the baby or who never hesitates to play with his child. I think she should know that she will fall in love with him again for reasons she would now find very unromantic.
I wish my daughter could sense the bond she will feel with women throughout history who have tried to stop war, prejudice and drunk driving. I hope she will understand why I can think rationally about most issues, but become temporarily insane when I discuss the threat of nuclear war to my children's future.
I want to describe to my daughter the exhilaration of seeing your child learn to ride a bike. I want to capture for her the belly laugh of a baby who is touching the soft fur of a dog or a cat for the first time. I want her to taste the joy that is so real, it actually hurts.
My daughter's quizzical look makes me realize that tears have formed in my eyes. "You'll never regret it," I finally say. Then I reach across the table, squeeze my daughter's hand and offer a silent prayer for her, and for me, and for all of the mere mortal women who stumble their way into this most wonderful of callings. This blessed gift from God . . . that of being a Mother.
Author Unknown
Thursday, July 3, 2008
House Blues
I need everyone's prayers. ...the house business is not going as well as hoped for. We are having a hard time coming to an agreement...(with the seller) I have really gotten attached to the beauty of the land. Please help us pray that God's will will be done. Thanks..Have a great fourth!
Wednesday, July 2, 2008
This was a great post from another blogger..
http://www.homeschoolblogger.com/HisAbidingLove/509676/
HELP MEET CHEAT SHEET
1. Refuse to miss a day of Bible Reading
Do not read in front of your husband – keep it private so that you don’t appear
more spiritual.
2. Pray before reading your Bible, “Open my eyes, Lord.”
3. Teach the Word to your children
4. Make a commitment to prayer.
5. Make a habit of prayer.
6. Acknowledge any sin God reveals to you and confess it to the Lord.
7. Pray for your husband.
8. Pray for your children.
9. Seek to know your God-given role as a wife and mother.
Find books, sermons on CD or DVD and study and meditate on God’s Word and
the teachings that apply to the most important things in your life: being a wife
and mother!
10. Keep a song of praise in your heart at all times.
11. Keep a prayer in your mind at all times.
“Lord, be with me at work at this moment and let me be a testimony.”
“Lord, give me the energy to joyfully do my job for just five more minutes.”
“Lord, thank you for the home you have provided me.”
“Lord, thank you for this hot running water.”
“Lord, thank you for a husband and children. Help me to be the wife and mother
You want me to be.”
“Lord, bless my child and help her to grow to be a strong Christian.”
“Lord, bless my husband wherever he is at this moment.”
“Lord, I am so angry right now, I’m just going to tell you about it.”
“Lord, I am so hurt right now, I’m just going to tell you about it.”
12. Study and know your husband.
13. Be a servant to your husband.
"Let me get that! (water, keys, coat, shoes, seconds at dinner, ketchup, dessert, the
remote, a snack, a tool, etc.)"
Keep his clothes clean and put away so that they are easy to find.
Keep his “area” neat (favorite chair, desk, his side of the bed, his toiletries)
14. Follow his leadership at the slightest opportunity (where to eat out, how to handle a home
situation, whether or not to go somewhere, whether or not to buy something, what to
watch on TV, how to fix something, etc.)
15. Readily accept his advice for any situation and acknowledge that it is good advice, and
thank him for it.
16. Don’t be contentious or resistant to him in your spirit.
17. Don’t embarrass your husband (your speech, appearance, behavior, neglect of your
family or home)
18. Prepare for his arrival each day (make sure his first perception of the house is that it is
clean—even if it’s only the entry way and the area where he sits to relax, have a smile on
your face, freshen your hair, clothes, or make-up, have the children clean and occupied,
and have a smile on your face.)
19. Never belittle him or make cutting remarks of any kind, even in jest.
20. Speak a sincere word of praise or appreciation whenever possible:
“I don’t understand how you can fix a car like that. I’m completely clueless.”
“Thank you for fixing that. I’m so fortunate to have a husband who can do that.”
“Absolutely you made the right decision.”
“You are absolutely right.”
“You couldn’t have handled that (work situation, etc.) better.
“That was very smart.”
“That was totally the right thing to do.”
21. Meet his gaze showing your love and acceptance of him—do not avert your eyes to show
your hurt or disapproval and to punish him.
22. Respond readily to his physical affection.
Do not be stiff when receiving a hug or a kiss.
Do not resist sexual advances: Pray instead. God will provide the grace.
23. Offer a warm hug, a warm smile, and an unexpected kiss of approval and appreciation.
24. Do not be financially independent. Let him control the finances.
Even if you have always controlled and balanced the checkbook, start checking
with him on budget amounts and spending decisions. Immediately concede to his
input of any kind.
Look for every opportunity to praise his wise financial decisions.
Do not spend his money foolishly—make sure he never has to worry about how
his wife will spend his money.
Check with him on any purchase that is not a necessity.
Do not argue or resist his financial decisions, even if you know they are bad ones.
Pray instead. (Your silence and support is actually more powerful of an influence
—try it and you will see!)
Remember that whatever decision your husband makes, it is God’s will for you.
Your resistance and interference will actually cause more problems.
25. Do not take matters into your own hands. Defer to your husband’s decisions whenever
possible.
26. Do not be your husband’s conscience.
27. Do not nag. Ever. It is never a life or death matter.
28. Show loyalty to him at all times.
Never seek counsel outside of him without his approval.
29. Encourage and wholeheartedly support any idea or goal he shares with you.
30. Listen with your eyes, your ears, and be aware of your body language. It doesn’t matter
how busy you are. He cannot talk forever. Stop and listen and show him he is important
to you and that you support him.
31. Share his excitement over anything.
32. Laugh at his jokes
33. Look at him with admiration when he is around his peers to inspire their respect. (It is
your job from the Lord to reverence him and to make him look good at all times.)
34. Always seek to make him look successful.
35. Spend the time and effort needed on your appearance because it shows you reverence
your husband.
36. Dress to please your husband.
37. Dress modestly so he does not worry that you may be trying to attract other men.
38. Remember what your husband likes:
Cook his favorite meals.
Keep his favorite snacks handy.
Keep his favorite beverages handy.
Keep his remote handy and the batteries working.
Wear clothing you know he likes on you.
Wear your hair the way you know he likes.
Wear a perfume you know he likes.
39. Care for your clothes and his clothes. Eliminate unused clothes.
40. Create order in his environment (one step at a time is fine)
Organize the bathroom cabinets
Organize his socks and underwear and keep it that way.
Make a permanent and tidy place for his pocket stuff (wallet, keys, change,
receipts, screws, batteries, business cards).
Keep track of his “stuff” however you can
41. Keep the home free of clutter
42. Train your children to be neat, clean and organized
43. Keep a meek and quiet spirit
44. Do not speak in anger
45. Stop a backbiting tongue by silence (Proverbs 26:20)
46. Ask your husband your spiritual questions.
47. Expect nothing from him (put all your expectation for fulfillment on the Lord, especially
in moments where you feel empty or alone)
48. Do not have the “marriage is teamwork and you’re not pulling your share” attitude. YOU
commit 100% to your husband, regardless of how you think he is performing (you will
only answer to God in the end for the kind of wife you were to your husband).
49. Learn to prioritize (quick prayers often clear up moments or days of confusion).
50. Organize one drawer, shelf, or area a day until your home has a place for everything and
everything in its place—then keep it there.
51. Train the children so that they make him proud.
52. Train the children to love him and respect him.
53. Never say a bad word about your husband to your children. Don’t even suggest in any
way to them that he is not the “dad” he should be.
54. Do not try to solve any of his problems without his consent.
55. Overlook his faults.
56. Overlook his little mistakes.
57. Overlook his big mistakes.
58. Forgive any offense that hurts you as quickly as you can (urgent prayer will take care of
this—pray until you feel your anger subside and your pleasure in your husband return.
At first this may take a few days. After a while, you will cut it to a few hours. With
continued practice, you will be able to forgive, with prayer and God’s help, within a few
minutes to a few seconds)
59. Remember DAILY back to the beginning of your relationship and all the things that
attracted you to him. Recall the smiles you had for him them and smile them all again.
60. Stop for one minute and thank the Lord for your husband.
61. Pray for God to bless your husband as the leader of your home and as the provider for
your family.
62. Smile.
63. Laugh.
64. Have joy.
65. Be lighthearted and create a lighthearted mood in your home.
66. Make him proud of his home, his wife, and his children.
67. Make sure that he would be proud to invite his boss to dinner.
68. Ask him for advice whenever you can, and always take it seriously—and tell him what
good advice it is.
69. When he tells you about his work, tell him how good he is at his job, in his position, and
praise his strengths at work (his leadership, his diligence, his honesty, his integrity).
70. Try to make all your words positive.
71. Never talk bad about his friends or coworkers. Do not affirm when he talks bad about
someone. You can nod sympathetically, but do not verbally agree.
72. Do not be negative.
73. Keep your speech clean and pretty—becoming to a lovely wife with a sweet spirit.
74. Do not correct him. Especially in front of others. Let it go unless your life is on the line.
75. Do not criticize him about anything. Not even about a shirt, how his hair looks, how he
spends his time, what he spent his money on, or…anything.
76. Pray for God’s strength and grace whenever—WHENEVER—you feel tired, angry, or
that you just can’t do it. Even if it means praying 2,000 times a day. All you have to say
is one word, “HELP!” He will.
77. Pray for God to reveal to you the opportunity to do something on this list whenever
possible.
http://www.homeschoolblogger.com/HisAbidingLove/509676/
HELP MEET CHEAT SHEET
1. Refuse to miss a day of Bible Reading
Do not read in front of your husband – keep it private so that you don’t appear
more spiritual.
2. Pray before reading your Bible, “Open my eyes, Lord.”
3. Teach the Word to your children
4. Make a commitment to prayer.
5. Make a habit of prayer.
6. Acknowledge any sin God reveals to you and confess it to the Lord.
7. Pray for your husband.
8. Pray for your children.
9. Seek to know your God-given role as a wife and mother.
Find books, sermons on CD or DVD and study and meditate on God’s Word and
the teachings that apply to the most important things in your life: being a wife
and mother!
10. Keep a song of praise in your heart at all times.
11. Keep a prayer in your mind at all times.
“Lord, be with me at work at this moment and let me be a testimony.”
“Lord, give me the energy to joyfully do my job for just five more minutes.”
“Lord, thank you for the home you have provided me.”
“Lord, thank you for this hot running water.”
“Lord, thank you for a husband and children. Help me to be the wife and mother
You want me to be.”
“Lord, bless my child and help her to grow to be a strong Christian.”
“Lord, bless my husband wherever he is at this moment.”
“Lord, I am so angry right now, I’m just going to tell you about it.”
“Lord, I am so hurt right now, I’m just going to tell you about it.”
12. Study and know your husband.
13. Be a servant to your husband.
"Let me get that! (water, keys, coat, shoes, seconds at dinner, ketchup, dessert, the
remote, a snack, a tool, etc.)"
Keep his clothes clean and put away so that they are easy to find.
Keep his “area” neat (favorite chair, desk, his side of the bed, his toiletries)
14. Follow his leadership at the slightest opportunity (where to eat out, how to handle a home
situation, whether or not to go somewhere, whether or not to buy something, what to
watch on TV, how to fix something, etc.)
15. Readily accept his advice for any situation and acknowledge that it is good advice, and
thank him for it.
16. Don’t be contentious or resistant to him in your spirit.
17. Don’t embarrass your husband (your speech, appearance, behavior, neglect of your
family or home)
18. Prepare for his arrival each day (make sure his first perception of the house is that it is
clean—even if it’s only the entry way and the area where he sits to relax, have a smile on
your face, freshen your hair, clothes, or make-up, have the children clean and occupied,
and have a smile on your face.)
19. Never belittle him or make cutting remarks of any kind, even in jest.
20. Speak a sincere word of praise or appreciation whenever possible:
“I don’t understand how you can fix a car like that. I’m completely clueless.”
“Thank you for fixing that. I’m so fortunate to have a husband who can do that.”
“Absolutely you made the right decision.”
“You are absolutely right.”
“You couldn’t have handled that (work situation, etc.) better.
“That was very smart.”
“That was totally the right thing to do.”
21. Meet his gaze showing your love and acceptance of him—do not avert your eyes to show
your hurt or disapproval and to punish him.
22. Respond readily to his physical affection.
Do not be stiff when receiving a hug or a kiss.
Do not resist sexual advances: Pray instead. God will provide the grace.
23. Offer a warm hug, a warm smile, and an unexpected kiss of approval and appreciation.
24. Do not be financially independent. Let him control the finances.
Even if you have always controlled and balanced the checkbook, start checking
with him on budget amounts and spending decisions. Immediately concede to his
input of any kind.
Look for every opportunity to praise his wise financial decisions.
Do not spend his money foolishly—make sure he never has to worry about how
his wife will spend his money.
Check with him on any purchase that is not a necessity.
Do not argue or resist his financial decisions, even if you know they are bad ones.
Pray instead. (Your silence and support is actually more powerful of an influence
—try it and you will see!)
Remember that whatever decision your husband makes, it is God’s will for you.
Your resistance and interference will actually cause more problems.
25. Do not take matters into your own hands. Defer to your husband’s decisions whenever
possible.
26. Do not be your husband’s conscience.
27. Do not nag. Ever. It is never a life or death matter.
28. Show loyalty to him at all times.
Never seek counsel outside of him without his approval.
29. Encourage and wholeheartedly support any idea or goal he shares with you.
30. Listen with your eyes, your ears, and be aware of your body language. It doesn’t matter
how busy you are. He cannot talk forever. Stop and listen and show him he is important
to you and that you support him.
31. Share his excitement over anything.
32. Laugh at his jokes
33. Look at him with admiration when he is around his peers to inspire their respect. (It is
your job from the Lord to reverence him and to make him look good at all times.)
34. Always seek to make him look successful.
35. Spend the time and effort needed on your appearance because it shows you reverence
your husband.
36. Dress to please your husband.
37. Dress modestly so he does not worry that you may be trying to attract other men.
38. Remember what your husband likes:
Cook his favorite meals.
Keep his favorite snacks handy.
Keep his favorite beverages handy.
Keep his remote handy and the batteries working.
Wear clothing you know he likes on you.
Wear your hair the way you know he likes.
Wear a perfume you know he likes.
39. Care for your clothes and his clothes. Eliminate unused clothes.
40. Create order in his environment (one step at a time is fine)
Organize the bathroom cabinets
Organize his socks and underwear and keep it that way.
Make a permanent and tidy place for his pocket stuff (wallet, keys, change,
receipts, screws, batteries, business cards).
Keep track of his “stuff” however you can
41. Keep the home free of clutter
42. Train your children to be neat, clean and organized
43. Keep a meek and quiet spirit
44. Do not speak in anger
45. Stop a backbiting tongue by silence (Proverbs 26:20)
46. Ask your husband your spiritual questions.
47. Expect nothing from him (put all your expectation for fulfillment on the Lord, especially
in moments where you feel empty or alone)
48. Do not have the “marriage is teamwork and you’re not pulling your share” attitude. YOU
commit 100% to your husband, regardless of how you think he is performing (you will
only answer to God in the end for the kind of wife you were to your husband).
49. Learn to prioritize (quick prayers often clear up moments or days of confusion).
50. Organize one drawer, shelf, or area a day until your home has a place for everything and
everything in its place—then keep it there.
51. Train the children so that they make him proud.
52. Train the children to love him and respect him.
53. Never say a bad word about your husband to your children. Don’t even suggest in any
way to them that he is not the “dad” he should be.
54. Do not try to solve any of his problems without his consent.
55. Overlook his faults.
56. Overlook his little mistakes.
57. Overlook his big mistakes.
58. Forgive any offense that hurts you as quickly as you can (urgent prayer will take care of
this—pray until you feel your anger subside and your pleasure in your husband return.
At first this may take a few days. After a while, you will cut it to a few hours. With
continued practice, you will be able to forgive, with prayer and God’s help, within a few
minutes to a few seconds)
59. Remember DAILY back to the beginning of your relationship and all the things that
attracted you to him. Recall the smiles you had for him them and smile them all again.
60. Stop for one minute and thank the Lord for your husband.
61. Pray for God to bless your husband as the leader of your home and as the provider for
your family.
62. Smile.
63. Laugh.
64. Have joy.
65. Be lighthearted and create a lighthearted mood in your home.
66. Make him proud of his home, his wife, and his children.
67. Make sure that he would be proud to invite his boss to dinner.
68. Ask him for advice whenever you can, and always take it seriously—and tell him what
good advice it is.
69. When he tells you about his work, tell him how good he is at his job, in his position, and
praise his strengths at work (his leadership, his diligence, his honesty, his integrity).
70. Try to make all your words positive.
71. Never talk bad about his friends or coworkers. Do not affirm when he talks bad about
someone. You can nod sympathetically, but do not verbally agree.
72. Do not be negative.
73. Keep your speech clean and pretty—becoming to a lovely wife with a sweet spirit.
74. Do not correct him. Especially in front of others. Let it go unless your life is on the line.
75. Do not criticize him about anything. Not even about a shirt, how his hair looks, how he
spends his time, what he spent his money on, or…anything.
76. Pray for God’s strength and grace whenever—WHENEVER—you feel tired, angry, or
that you just can’t do it. Even if it means praying 2,000 times a day. All you have to say
is one word, “HELP!” He will.
77. Pray for God to reveal to you the opportunity to do something on this list whenever
possible.
Tuesday, July 1, 2008
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