55 UNIQUE SEWING AND CRAFT SECRETS

55 UNIQUE SEWING AND CRAFT SECRETS
Copyright Knowledge Box Publications

1. To Open that Stuck Zipper: Rub the teeth with a bar of soap or spray with shaving cream.
2. An Ideal Pin Cushion: Use a bar of soap. Makes sewing easier and needle just slides through hard material.
3. To Unwrinkle Plastic Materials: Heat ironing board with iron, lay material on board, then smooth with hands.
4. Neat and Easy Needle Threading: Dip tip of needle in clear nail polish and let dry.
5. How to Remove Scorches: Wet scorched area and cover with cornstarch, then brush off when dry.
6. Lengthen Life of Wooden Clothes Pins: Boil them in a salt solution.
7. A Neat String Dispenser: Nail a funnel to the wall and pull string out of bottom of funnel.
8. Tips on Storing Plastic Curtains: Sprinkle talcum powder between the layers as you go.
9. Basting Made Easy: Just tape then sew around the pieces of tape.
10. How to Revive Old Clothing: Shave those fluffs off with a safety razor.
11. Make an Emergency Clothes Brush: Wrap a piece of tape around the hand, sticky side out.
12. Stop Clothes Catching on Wooden Hangers: Put a coat of clear nail polish over splinters and rough edges.
13. A Needle Sharpening Pin Cushion: Use steel wool to fill your cushion.
14. Quick Needle Sharpening Trick: Rub needle against an emery board.
15. Make a Good Yarn Preserver: Wrap yarn around a moth ball for storage.
16. Handy Tip for Cutting Fur: Use a razor blade on back of fur when cutting and you will not cut any hair.
17. Tips on Sewing Slippery Material: Stick a piece of waxed paper in seam, pull away when finished.
18. Easy Pickup of Needle Spills: Use a small magnet.
19. Excellent Knitting Tip: Keep ball of yarn in nylon stocking - will flow out free of tangles.
20. How to Get Rid of Shiny Pants: Make a solution of one part vinegar to four parts water. Soak a cloth in solution, wring out, place over pants and press lightly.
21. When You Need Heavy Duty Thread: Use dental floss.
22. Make a Handy Tape Measure Holder: Wind tape around an old adhesive tape spool.
23. Prevent Nylon from Yellowing: Add baking soda to your wash and rinse water.
24. Make a Perfect Sock Darner: Pull socks over a light bulb - makes it easier.
25. Restore Velvet Like New: Brush good, then hang in a steamy bathroom.
26. How to Get Rid of Knots on Sweaters: Rub lightly with a piece of sandpaper.
27. How to Remove Lint from Wool: Use a damp sponge and touch lightly.
28. Caring for Leather: Brush with skim milk every three months.
29. Repair Scuffed Patent Leather: Cover with same color polish, let dry; then cover with clear nail polish.
30. Repair Cracking Patent Leather: Before each wearing, rub briskly with your hand, then a soft cloth.
31. How to Soften Leather Shoes: Sponge with black coffee.
32. Create Rainbow Colors for Bottles and Vases: Use floating art colors available from most paint stores. Take a pail and fill it with water, then put a few drops of several different art colors on top of water. You can now take any article you wish and dip down through the colors slowly back and forth. Great for decorating above items, tye-dye shirts, etc.
33. To Protect Your Sewing Bag: Stick the point of your closed scissors into a cork.
34. Neat Pin and Needle Container: Save those stick deodorant containers. They work great!
35. Renew those Worn Out Blankets: Sew cloth on both sides and you have a new quilt.
36. To Ensure the Sections of Material Cut from a Pattern are Accurate: First press the sections before laying them to be cut.
37. Breath Life into Those Worn Lingerie Items: Machine stitch over small breaks.
38. Keep Needles Rust Free: Stick them straight into a bar of soap.
39. Money Making Craft Business You Can Start Today with Low Overhead: Try making seat cushions. In many cases you will be able to beat the high prices charged in stores. Try selling for
50% less.
40. Eliminate the Old Hemline in Your Wool Clothes: When lowering, sponge with vinegar, then press.
41. Save Repair Bills on Your Sewing Machine: Try oiling and delinting first before sending out for costly repairs.
42. Handy Substitute for Hemline Chalk: A bar of soap works fine.
43. Prevent Your Thread from Knotting when Basting: Tie a knot in the thread before snipping off.
44. Remove Stains from Suede: First rub with a emery board, then leave in a steamy shower or apply light steam from your iron.
45. Remove Grease From Valuable Silks: Rub in baby powder and let stand several days, then brush out. Powder should absorb the grease.
46. Tip on Ironing Ruffles: Always iron these on the wrong side and from the edge in.
47. Handy Tip for Ironing Skirt Hems: Always make sure hems are fully dry. Iron from bottom to top, not side to side. Iron with the grain of the fabric.
48. To Iron Embroidered Items: Lay right side down on a terry cloth and press out.
49. Don't Pop Your Button: Cover them with a spoon while ironing.
50. Ironing Seer Sucker: If you ever have to do so, on the wrong side only.
51. Fast Easy Way to Remove Lint: Put your garment on the fluff cycle in dryer for a few moments.
52. Handy Tip for Filling Steam Irons: Your old squeeze bottles work great!
53. Quickie Iron Tip: Place Reynolds Wrap under the ironing board cover. Heats up faster and cuts your time in half.
54. Patchwork Tip: Before your sew a patch on any washable garment, be sure to wash the patch once to avoid shrinkage.
55. Cool Folding Tip: After ironing, be sure to let the garments cool completely before storing.

Victory: What Do You Really Want? Go and Get it, and Don't Forget God!

We all want to prosper in this life. Most times when we hear the word "prosper," we think of finances. Prosperity is actually a word that means "wholeness ~ nothing missing and nothing broken." We should absolutely want financial prosperity (and God wants that for us too, in order that we might have what we need, and also be a blessing to others), but we need to make sure we take care of our health.

What good is all the money in the world if you don't have your health?

When it's put like that, most people say, "yes, that's true." Then WHY don't more people put a priority on their health? Because most people are more concerned about money.

"Wisdom and money can get you almost anything, but only wisdom can save your life." Ecclesiastes 7:12

Wisdom for health is to eat what God gave us for food, in form that's healthy for the body!

"Beloved, I pray that you may prosper in all things and be in health, just as your soul prospers." 3 John 1:2

God wants you to do well (prosper) in all areas of your life, and as you think right, you will be able to do well in each area. Think about that! If we think right, we will take right actions, and our lives are much better.

Hosea 4:6 "My people perish for lack of knowledge."

Is there an area of your life that isn't going so well? If so, what are you lacking knowledge of?

If it's health you want, then go after it. Get knowledge and understanding so you can do or apply what you learn. Stay with it until you see results, and keep going. Then it will become a way of life for you.

If it's in the area of finances and business, go after it. Stay with it until you see results. Same scenario.

If it's how to have better relationships, go after it. Stay with it until you see results. Same scenario.

Remember this: Knowledge is NOT power. It's APPLYING that knowledge that makes the knowledge powerful.

In all these things that you are seeking knowledge about, go to God's Word FIRST and THEN seek our godly people that will give you godly counsel, that are experts in the areas that you need help with. This is the way to get the right results you want more quickly!

Lastly, don't forget that it is God that gives you the power to get wealth. He sustains your very breath. Don't leave Him out. Be sure to honor Him with your substance. He will bless you more. It's His law. When you give, you receive, and you receive more. Blessings will pour in. Keep God first in all you do!

My new book, "IT CAN BE DONE: You Can Live in Victory 24/7" goes into much more detail about all of these things, is very easy to read and understand, and gives you practical steps that you can start to implement the day you read it!

Lisa Buldo, Holistic Health Counselor, Biblical Health Coach, Author, Speaker, and Founder of Natural Whole Health, LLC. If you're ready to jumpstart your health, get your F*R*E*E tips now at www.LisaBuldo.com.

© 2009 Lisa Buldo, HHC/Natural Whole Health, LLC.

Make Your Husband a Priority

It’s a challenge to keep up with all the needs in a busy household. As you’re deciding what to tackle, who becomes a higher priority—your kids, or your husband? The Bible speaks to that question.*

I wish young women knew how to reverence and adore their husbands, to protect their reputations, and to affirm them in public. Men blossom when you do that.

If you are a married woman, loving your husband is the number-one way that you demonstrate your commitment to sound doctrine.

Loving your husband means enjoying him. It means being his friend, taking pleasure in him

Listen to or read more from “Make Your Husband a Priority”

Letting God Shape Your Husband

Don’t bother with today’s message if you have a perfect marriage. But if you need solid advice on honoring God through an imperfect marriage, dig in.*

The best marriage is nothing more than two sinners continually humbling themselves and knowing how to get to the cross to find the grace of God.

Your husband’s strengths and weaknesses are exactly what God knew you needed for you to become the woman God wanted you to be.

It's your job to love your husband; it's God’s job to change him.

Listen to or read more from “Letting God Shape Your Husband”

On Prayer - Inspirational Quote

Pray, then let go. The answer comes only after the big pause of letting go. - itakeoffthemask.com

"To whom shall we go?"

"You do not want to leave too, do you?" Jesus asked the Twelve. Simon Peter answered him, "Lord, to whom shall we go? You have the words of eternal life. We believe and know that you are the Holy One of God."John 6:67-69

"To whom shall we go?" When you think about it, Peter's question here is more of a declaration. Peter knew Jesus was the only one who was able to give meaning to life. And he knew there was no better place for him to be.

Peter wasn't perfect. He had his shortcomings. But when it came down to it, Peter recognized that Jesus was greater than anything or anyone else. And he was willing to put aside all his doubts and continue following the one he had seen work miracles and change lives.

When you are faced with doubts in your life and think you may want to bail on Jesus, take a moment to ask yourself what Peter asked. "To whom shall I go?" Take inventory of what God has done in your life. And realize that no matter what circumstances or problems you may be facing, that Jesus is the only one who can help you overcome them.

(Thanks to Ed Young Ministries)

Book Review - The Noticer‏

Thanks to Thomas Nelson, I am able to share another book review with you!

The Noticer

Sometimes, All A Person Needs Is A Little Perspective

By Andy Andrews

This review is straight from the Thomas Nelson website, as I simply could not write a better description of this book - this review says it all:

"Perhaps no one knows what hitting rock bottom feels like better than author of The Traveler's Gift, Andy Andrews. Once homeless, directionless and living under a pier, Andrews is now a best-selling author and an in-demand speaker for U.S. presidents, top corporations, celebrities, and the U.S. military. With his latest book, The Noticer, releasing the week of April 27th, Andrews draws on his own remarkable true story to reveal the healing power of perspective."

A new story of common wisdom from the bestselling author of The Traveler's Gift

Orange Beach, Alabama is a simple town filled with simple people. But like all humans on the planet, the good folks of Orange Beach have their share of problems - marriages teetering on the brink of divorce, young adults giving up on life, business people on the verge of bankruptcy, as well as the many other obstacles that life seems to dish out to the masses.

Fortunately, when things look the darkest - a mysterious man named Jones has a miraculous way of showing up. An elderly man with white hair, of indiscriminate age and race, wearing blue jeans, a white T-shirt and leather flip flops carrying a battered old suitcase, Jones is a unique soul. Communicating what he calls "a little perspective," Jones explains that he has been given a gift of noticing things that others miss. "Your time on this earth is a gift to be used wisely," he says. "Don't squander your words or your thoughts. Consider even the simplest action you take, for your lives matter beyondmeasure…and they matter forever."

Jones speaks to that part in everyone that is yearning to understand why things happen and what we can do about it. Like The Traveler's Gift, The Noticer is a unique narrative is a blend of fiction, allegory, and inspiration. Gifted storyteller Andy Andrews helps us see how becoming a "noticer" just might change a person's life forever.

Visit http://www.thenoticerproject.com/ for more information about "The Noticer Project."
Also, launching April 7th, "The Noticer Project" is a worldwide movement to "notice" the five most influential people in your life - one of the core messages of The Noticer. Noticing those five people can be as private (just a letter or email) or as public (posting to your blog or Facebook page) as you choose, but the movement is meant to encourage us to step outside our busy schedules and avoid waiting until a wedding, graduation, or even funeral to take notice of the special, influential people in our lives.

Check out these videos featuring Andy Andrews and The Noticer:
Why am I the Wayward
Why am I the Lover Lost
Why am I the Worrier
Why am I the Lustful Youth
Why am I the Workaholic
Why am I the Useless
Full Length

1 Minute Bible for Men - "Peter - Captured by Conscience"

Peter - Captured by Conscience
Selections from Luke 22

When they had lit a fire in the middle of the courtyard and sat down together, Peter sat among them. When a servant saw him sitting in the firelight, and looked closely at him, she said, "This man was with Him too." But he denied it: "Woman, I don't know Him!" After a little while, someone else saw him and said, "You're one of them too! ... This man was certainly with Him, since he's also a Galilean." But Peter said, "Man, I don't know what you're talking about!" Immediately, while he was still speaking, a rooster crowed. Then the Lord turned and looked at Peter.... And he went outside and wept bitterly.

Peter honestly didn't see it coming. Looking back, he's not even sure it would have mattered. He was just weakened by the fear, by the confusion, by the snap in Christ's voice after Peter had taken a sharp-edged swipe at that arresting officer. Could Jesus ever forgive him?
There is guilt. And then there is conviction. Guilt depresses, defeats, demoralizes. Conviction motivates and redirects. Guilt is a seed planted strategically by the devil that crops up at the most unexpected times to remind us how pathetic we are. Conviction is an uncommon gift from the Holy Spirit that may come wrapped in sandpaper and burn all the way down. But its purpose is to redeem, to restore, to renew. Embrace conviction - sandpaper and all. It's God's patient way of giving us another chance.

Look At It This Way ...I think of Peter, who denied Jesus not once, but three times. How easy it would have been for Jesus to treat Peter bitterly, to make him feel as small as he had acted. But Jesus didn't say a word. Is that because Jesus understood how easy it is for us to betray even our best intentions when we're over-whelmed by insecurity and fear? Was that the bro-kenness Jesus saw in Peter? Someone might suggest that surely there must have been cruelty in Jesus' eyes when "the Lord turned and looked straight at Peter." We all know those "looks that can kill." Had Jesus' glance been a look of cruelty, Peter might never have been salvaged. Instead, what Peter saw was a knowing look of disappointment: disappointment, because love hopes for the very best; knowing, because love recognizes human frailty. Isn't that the way God works in our own lives? No one loves us more. And he loves us despite the fact that he knows us inside out. Instead of rebuking us cruelly, he gives us that knowing look of disappointment - and calls us higher. - F. LaGard Smith

A Final Thought:God knows how sick you are of that same old sin. He knows how badly you want to get beyond it. He knows it's more weakness than wickedness. And he's here to help you up.

(Thanks to LifeWay Christian Resources)

I Just Love How God Speaks To Us....

I'm sure you haven't missed any of the relationship posts I've made while waiting on Honey Bear to come home...well, tonight..I needed just a little something. Wasn't sure what 'it' was, just that it was something...

So, as I clean up old emails, I had forgotten I saved this one link and when I opened it up, here's the message it was: (It matches my recent posts to a tee!)

1 Peter 3 (New Living Translation)
1 Peter 3

Wives
1 In the same way, you wives must accept the authority of your husbands. Then, even if some refuse to obey the Good News, your godly lives will speak to them without any words. They will be won over 2 by observing your pure and reverent lives.
3 Don’t be concerned about the outward beauty of fancy hairstyles, expensive jewelry, or beautiful clothes. 4 You should clothe yourselves instead with the beauty that comes from within, the unfading beauty of a gentle and quiet spirit, which is so precious to God. 5 This is how the holy women of old made themselves beautiful. They trusted God and accepted the authority of their husbands. 6 For instance, Sarah obeyed her husband, Abraham, and called him her master. You are her daughters when you do what is right without fear of what your husbands might do

Husbands
7 In the same way, you husbands must give honor to your wives. Treat your wife with understanding as you live together. She may be weaker than you are, but she is your equal partner in God’s gift of new life. Treat her as you should so your prayers will not be hindered.

All Christians
8 Finally, all of you should be of one mind. Sympathize with each other. Love each other as brothers and sisters.[a] Be tenderhearted, and keep a humble attitude. 9 Don’t repay evil for evil. Don’t retaliate with insults when people insult you. Instead, pay them back with a blessing. That is what God has called you to do, and he will bless you for it. 10 For the Scriptures say,

“If you want to enjoy life
and see many happy days,
keep your tongue from speaking evil
and your lips from telling lies.
11 Turn away from evil and do good.
Search for peace, and work to maintain it.
12 The eyes of the Lord watch over those who do right,
and his ears are open to their prayers.
But the Lord turns his face
against those who do evil.”[b]

Suffering for Doing Good
13 Now, who will want to harm you if you are eager to do good? 14 But even if you suffer for doing what is right, God will reward you for it. So don’t worry or be afraid of their threats. 15 Instead, you must worship Christ as Lord of your life. And if someone asks about your Christian hope, always be ready to explain it. 16 But do this in a gentle and respectful way.[c] Keep your conscience clear. Then if people speak against you, they will be ashamed when they see what a good life you live because you belong to Christ. 17 Remember, it is better to suffer for doing good, if that is what God wants, than to suffer for doing wrong!
18 Christ suffered[d] for our sins once for all time. He never sinned, but he died for sinners to bring you safely home to God. He suffered physical death, but he was raised to life in the Spirit.[e]
19 So he went and preached to the spirits in prison—20 those who disobeyed God long ago when God waited patiently while Noah was building his boat. Only eight people were saved from drowning in that terrible flood.[f] 21 And that water is a picture of baptism, which now saves you, not by removing dirt from your body, but as a response to God from[g] a clean conscience. It is effective because of the resurrection of Jesus Christ.
22 Now Christ has gone to heaven. He is seated in the place of honor next to God, and all the angels and authorities and powers accept his authority.

Footnotes:
1 Peter 3:8 Greek Show brotherly love.
1 Peter 3:12 Ps 34:12-16.
1 Peter 3:16 Some English translations put this sentence in verse 15.
1 Peter 3:18 Some manuscripts read died.
1 Peter 3:18 Or in spirit.
1 Peter 3:20 Greek saved through water.
1 Peter 3:21 Or as an appeal to God for.

Criss-Cross Coasters

Criss-Cross Coasters

FREE Pattern of the Day

Check back daily, as it's only available for one day and changes daily

Forgiveness is the fragrance

“Forgiveness is the fragrance the violet sheds on the heel that has crushed it.“~ Mark Twain

100 Ways You Can Love Your Husband HIS Way

100 Ways You Can Love Your Husband HIS Way

Communication breakers and builders

Ways we can change in communicating successfully with our men:

Communication breakers:

Defensiveness
Defensiveness seems to be the hardest thing for a woman to see in herself. It comes from an attitude that says "My way is the best way." We don't listen to what our husband has to say. Instead, we formulate our response while he is speaking. When he is finished, we defend our position instead of taking to heart what he has said. This type of behavior exposes our pride and arrogance. Proverbs 18:2 says "A fool finds no pleasure understanding but delights in airing his own opinions."

Beating around the bush
Hint, hint, hint. "He should know how he hurt me. It's obvious!" We expect our mate to figure out what it is that has us upset instead of being venerable and sharing how we are hurt. This type of behavior is a form of control and manipulation born out of our attempt to protect ourselves from being hurt further. "He doesn't care about me!" We therefore feel justified in making him miserable as we play this guessing game to make him prove he really does care. Ephesians 4:15 says, "Instead, speaking the truth in love, we will in all things grow up into him who is the Head, that is, Christ." We will become more mature and be closer with our spouse if we practice speaking the truth in love.

Complaining
Philippians 2: 14-15 says, "Do everything without complaining or arguing, so that you may become blameless and pure, children of God without fault in a crooked and depraved generation, in which you shine like stars in the universe". Proverbs 21:9 says, "Better to live in a desert than with a quarrelsome and ill-tempered wife". Proverbs 12: 18-19 says, "Reckless words pierce like an arrow, but the tongue of the wise brings healing".

Stuffing
He says something that hurts your feelings and then, because he's done the same thing a thousand times before, without any regard for how it makes you feel, you decide to give up and harden your heart. "He doesn't care so why should I even bother talking to him about it". We bury the hurt and it festers inside us. Eventually it has to come out and when it does, look out. Mount Vesuvius has nothing on you! "In your anger do not sin: Do not let the sun go down while you are still angry, and do not give the devil a foothold". Ephesians 4: 26-27.

Communication builders:

Prayer
Great communication begins with our relationship with God. No one can help your marriage change if you are not willing to take your needs to the Lord. No advice, no marriage book, no counselor, and no self-help book can change your marriage if you don't pray. Begin by praying every day for God to give you both the wisdom to understand each other better and to communicate in a way that is pleasing to Him. Pray together if your husband is willing. When you pray together, you both get a chance to hear what is on the other's heart; what they are struggling with, what they are thankful for and what their hopes and dreams are. There is no better way to get close to your spouse than to pray together. 1 Thessalonians 5:16. "Be joyful always, pray continually."

Showing Respect
Ephesians 5: 33b says, "and the wife must respect her husband." That doesn't mean that you respect him only if he respects you first. That means that you respect your husband in thought (the heart), word (your speech) and deed (your actions).
How you say something, your tone, speaks volumes about what is really in your heart. You'd be surprised at what you communicate with your voice inflection. If you are angry, bitter, or frustrated, it is bound to come through in your tone of voice. If you are not sure how you sound, try this experiment. Put a tape recorder in a room where you and your husband converse most often and forget it is on. Then play it back to see how you sound. It can be a real eye opener.
Proverbs 16:24 says, "Pleasant words are a honeycomb, sweet to the soul and healing to the bones".
The words you say can also damage your relationship. It can be the little things you say to your husband on a daily basis or that one big blow up that causes deep hurt and regret. If you are prone to saying things in anger, know this, it only takes a moment to say something you will regret for the rest of your life. Take a moment to go into another room and pray. Pray for patience, restraint, compassion and a gentle spirit. Proverbs 13:3 says, "He who guards his lips guards his life, but he who speaks rashly will come to ruin." Proverbs 25:11. "A word aptly spoken is like apples of gold in settings of silver."
Listen to what your husband says; listen to hear. The longer we are married the less we seem to listen to really hear and understand what our spouse has to say. Don't let the kids, the television or your housework distract you. Focus on him when he is talking. Get clarification. Repeat back to him what you understood him to say.

Timing
Timing is another essential component to communication. Here are some things to avoid. Don't try to discuss something with your husband right before being romantic, or as he's going to work or coming home from work. You'd be surprised at how many women try to do this. Also, be considerate about when you choose to discuss important matters with your husband. If you want your husband's undivided attention, don't do it when he's watching his favorite program. Choose the time to convey your message wisely

Building him up.
Practice complimenting your husband. Even if he says it doesn't matter, let him how great he looks. Compliment him as he goes out the door to work and when he gets dressed up to go on a date with you. You appreciate it when he tells you that you look nice, so does he; even if he doesn't admit it.
Practice verbal appreciation. Men were designed by God to take care of their families. Make sure you let him know often that you appreciate how hard he works and how he looks after the affairs of the family. Thank him for the everyday things he does. Don't take him for granted.
Ephesians 4:29. "Do not let any unwholesome talk come out of your mouths, but only what is helpful for building others up according to their needs, that it may benefit those who listen."

The way in which you communicate can make or break your relationship. If you don't put an effort forth to communicate in a godly way with your husband, you will be distant from each other. As the Bible teaches us, we reap what we sow. What are you sewing in your communication?

Garden Craft: Plant Markers Free Pattern Download

Garden Craft: Plant Markers Free Pattern Download

Great Man Rhyme...

It’s when you’re most tired and you need to dig down deep to your last reserves of strength.
We’ve all probably had moments in our life when things got so tough, we just wanted to throw our hands up and quit. But it’s precisely in those times when have to grit our teeth and keeping going on. Quitting is the easy thing to do. It’s the keep-going-on that’s hard. But it’s taking the hard way that makes you a man.

The Quitter
By: Robert Service

When you’re lost in the Wild, and you’re scared as a child,And Death looks you bang in the eye,And you’re sore as a boil, it’s according to HoyleTo cock your revolver and . . . die.But the Code of a Man says: “Fight all you can,”And self-dissolution is barred.In hunger and woe, oh, it’s easy to blow . . .It’s the hell-served-for-breakfast that’s hard.

“You’re sick of the game!” Well, now, that’s a shame.You’re young and you’re brave and you’re bright.“You’ve had a raw deal!” I know-but don’t squeal,Buck up, do your damnedest, and fight.It’s the plugging away that will win you the day,So don’t be a piker, old pard!Just draw on your grit; it’s so easy to quit:It’s the keeping-your-chin-up that’s hard.

It’s easy to cry that you’re beaten-and die;It’s easy to crawfish and crawl;But to fight and to fight when hope’s out of sight-Why, that’s the best game of them all!And though you come out of each grueling bout,All broken and beaten and scarred,Just have one more try-it’s dead easy to die,It’s the keeping-on-living that’s hard.

(Thanks to The Art of Manliness )

A Woman's Full Obedience to her Husband

http://members.tripod.com/puritan55/id26.htm

Respect your Husband...

I was so happy to see that I am not the only woman out there who beleives that the number one rule in any successful home/marriage is Respect. We need to stop demanding, asking, seeking, etc to GET respect - instead, give respect and in the long run, he will shower you with respect. I know, I know...but seriously, it is God's way and His way works!

I found this post Respect your Husband and she made a really good comment that I am posting if only for my own reminder: "You may be thinking that your husband has to earn your respect. His position as the man you chose to be your husband entitles him to that respect."

She's 100% right - no matter how they treat you, lovingly or horribly; no matter how much money the make, prince or pauper or somewhere in between; no matter if they are a dishwasher or a CEO or anything in between - you chose him, and more importantly, HE CHOSE YOU and that's all that our focus should be on: Submit as unto the Lord

Proverbs 14:1 The wise woman builds her house, but with her own hands the foolish one tears hers down.

Ephesians 5:33 However, each one of you also must love his wife as he loves himself, and the wife must respect her husband.

Just my take on things...

Book Review - Jesus Calling: Enjoying Peace in His Presence

Special thanks again to Thomas Nelson for this opportunity to review yet another amazing book!

Author Sarah Young took her prayer journal and decided to share it with the world - her experiences of listening to Jesus speak to her. We all have a special connection with our Lord and how He chooses to speak to us, and I am so thankful for this little book, which would be a blessing to add to your personal library, as well as, give as a gift.

The very first day I read this book, I opened to that days date and I have no idea what YEAR she wrote her personal notes in, but that particular day, what I read was exactly what I longed to hear from our Father.

Maybe that's the purpose of this book, Jesus Calling, to not be the answer, but to be a voice above our own. I love how the entries are faith impacted enough to lft you during the day, and I also love how it's dated just by the month and date, no year attached - It feels more personal.

I truly appreciate an author like this who shares from their own experience where true knowledge and wisdom come. We can only give what we, ourselves, have gained. Sarah's personal one on one time with our Lord has been spread world wide due to the benefit her little notes written from what she claims to be, Jesus talking to her in her own prayer time.

It's wonderfully written, hardcover, beautiful and impactful!

What We Can't See...

What We Can't See
24 Apr 2009 Marybeth Whalen
"'Don't be afraid,' the prophet answered. 'Those who are with us are more than those who are with them.' And Elisha prayed, 'O Lord, open his eyes so he may see.'" II Kings 6:16-17a (NIV)

Have you ever asked God to help you see what He's up to in the spiritual realm?

In II Kings 6:15-17, the prophet Elisha prays for his servant to be able to see beyond his circumstances. They are surrounded by a great army and the odds look to be overwhelmingly against them. He asks God to show the servant what is taking place beyond what the eye can see. The servant's eyes are opened to a supernatural realm and he is able to see the Lord's armies gathered to fight on their behalf. Elisha knew his servant was feeling hopeless and simply needed a different perspective.

We need eyes to see just like that servant did. Make no mistake, we are fighting a war. As Christians, we must suit up every day and face another battle. We have an enemy who wants to defeat us. And some days it seems like he gets the victory. We look around at the failing economy, the fractured families, and the fast pace of our lives and feel that the odds are overwhelmingly against us. We grow weary and feel like giving up.

In those moments we need to stop worrying and pray for a new vision. We need to ask God to change our perspective so that we can look past what we can see to what He is taking care of in the unseen. We need to remember to trust Him and to ask Him to help us see His activity—no matter how overwhelmed and unworthy we may feel. God sees us and He will send help when we need it.

The odds are never stacked against us because God is waging a battle we can't see. I love that He is always fighting on our behalf, even when we don't see it—and especially when we need it the most.

Dear Lord, please help me to remember that You are fighting even when I don't see it. Help me to have a vision for what You do daily on my behalf and not grow discouraged by the battles I face. In Jesus' Name, Amen.

This Is Love...

As the Lord has spoken to me many times in the past two weeks, this message really came home for me...

I raised a son who thought of me as his inspiration, I was his idol (in a good way) - when he had papers to write for school as to whom he looked up to, etc., he always chose me. His notes were on the hard work I did, how I loved him as is, no exception, how I'd get out of 'mom mode' and just be an honest to goodness friend. I cherish this about him. No matter him being 22 now, no matter his financial or work situation - just no matter what, I am his, what is the word I'm looking for? Heavens, I can't put my finger on it, but anyway, it has nothing at all with what I bought him, where I took him, etc...it has to do with my honest unconditional love for him. I was there, always. When I was out of mom mode, I was his non-judgemental friend. He told me everything, he accepted ME all the time and with him looking up to me so greatly, there ARE times I feel so pushed to the edge of dissappointing him, but I never do, he STILL admires me...nice..right?

Well, the relationship I have always had with him is the kind I want with EVERYONE in my life. I wish I had it. I read this today and it IS so true. This IS love, this IS the way I loved him and he loved me...this is exactly the description of a battle I've been dealing with, wishing with all my heart, to get it back, to keep it...and never lose it. It's hard to hold onto this truth, this fact...in today's society, when so many people don't get it...this is me, who 'I' am, and I admit to losing it, but am giving it my ALL to regain and retain it, always!

This is Love
23 Apr 2009Renee Swope
"This is love: not that we loved God, but that he loved us and sent his Son as an atoning sacrifice for our sins." 1 John 4:10 (NIV)

I was driving my son to school one morning when out of the blue I started wondering what makes him feel loved. I assumed it was when I buy him something, or when I make his favorite food, or when I let him have a friend over. Basically, I figured he feels most loved when I give him what He wants.

I decided to ask him. "Andrew, what makes you feel loved?

"He sat there quietly, thinking. Then he blurted out a surprising answer.

"THIS!"

"This?" I asked.

"Yeah, Mom. This. You being with me. You driving me to school and talking to me about my day. You telling me you'll be there when I get home. That makes me feel loved. Thanks, Mom. I love you, bye!" And he hopped out of the car.

This is love?

You mean I don't have to run out and buy something? Me being there for him is love? Even after I was harsh with my words yesterday prompting him to ask if I was mad about something. Still, this is love?

As I drove away, I wondered if God were to ask me what makes me feel loved, what would I say? Immediately my heart whispered, "Lord, this is love. You asking and caring. You being there. You keeping Your promises like You said You would."

This is love.
• A promise that is kept.
• A place that is certain.
• Someone who asks.
• Someone who listens.
• Someone who is present again and again.

We are loved. We don't have to wait for God to show it. He already has! He sent His Son so that we could know Him in an intimate relationship. Then promised He'd always be there for us, and He is. He is present and listening. Asking and caring. No matter what we are going through today, we can live in His love. And we can love from the overflow of being loved. We can know and rely on God's promises and presence, and be made complete in Him.

This is love.

Dear Lord, thank You that You first loved us. Remind us and embrace us and pour out on us Your perfect, completing and unfailing love today. As we think of those we love, and the ways we want to be loved, remind us that we are Yours and we are loved! In Jesus' Name, Amen.

A Huge List Of Conditions To Cure Naturally...

I am a carb addict - always have been. When I was younger, it gave me power to accomplish an incredible amount of work, always crashing into a deep sleep. As I'm getting older, it's almost immediately after any carb overload that I litterally fall into a carb coma - that's what Honey Bear and me call it, because no matter how hard you or I try to wake me up, I am totally and completely out of it - I cannot wake up or stay awake - even for an emergency!

This has caused a serious yeast problem for me....Garlic is an excellent cure, or at least limiter to it, but due to finances, I haven't been able to take anything for this problem and am now, again, paying the price of being a carb addict. Not only with my weight (as one of Honey Bears' aunts said in spanish one day - she's as wide as a fridgedare!)

Anyway, I found this store with some natural help: Red Barn Natural Grocery which stated natural ways to cure and limit this problem. There's a whole array of conditions they have natural cures for.

Give it a look through, you might find something interesting there.

More Eco-Friendly Ideas

30 Painless Ways to Go Green
Find Organic Markets in Your State
Make Your Own Grocery Tote

You Know....Kids Can Be The Miracle Our Day Needed...

I was sitting here, trying to connect to God, reach Honey Bear and break out of my 'stuck' mode...well, it took the pull on my heart to call my 22 year old son to bring me the answer I have actually been running into time and again on the net this morning....

He told me to show my good side, that people want to be around the good sided person...that everything WILL work out... and it's this good side, that I've been desperately seeking for days! This is just a shortened version of what he said, but at the time, it was exaclty what I needed (not expected), to hear...

How awesome God answers our prayers!!

Bring Him Home!

Do you beleive God talks to us in some way to lead us or guide us? I do.... this is an article I had read quite a while ago and had forgotten about it. For about a week now, it's really been on my mind on how I'd really like to read it agan - I missed it for some odd reason. Well, as I was surfing this morning, lo and behold, here it is: Bring Him Home! It's a great read to anyone who tells you something or someone is impossible - I don't know, I just read it and cried, and feel good that I re-found it...

What does it mean to love someone?

Written by ANGELA DECOTEAU

Do you promise to love, honor and obey, as long as you both shall live? A wedding service always reminds us of the promises we made on our own wedding day, doesn’t it? But what does it mean to love someone? Romantic novelists tell us that love is a whirlwind of shared joy and happiness, intermingled with hearty doses of nights out on the town, candle lit dinners for two, and heart pounding love letters. Psychologists tell us that to love someone is to spend “quality” time together and “communicate.”

All these things are good and surely couples who practice them have experienced a better relationship. But what if you are unequally yoked to an unbeliever? What if your spouse doesn’t act lovingly toward you? What if, right now, the Lord is blessing you with children and you can’t afford to, or have little energy left to pursue the fun dating activities that originally brought you together? Sadly, many couples, when faced with these types of growing pains, feel as though they have “fallen out of love”, seek a separation and ultimately divorce.

God, however, looks at love differently. Biblical love is a verb, a word that indicates action, rather than a noun which would indicate a feeling. We are to lay down our desires for those of another. One pastor put it, “Doing what is best for someone else regardless of the cost to self.”

Many married couples in Biblical times did not even know each other before marriage. Isaac and Rebekah, for example, lived many miles from each other. Others, such as Moses and Zipporah or Jacob and Leah were not even drawn together by a common bond or goal. When Jesus beseeched husbands and wives to love each other, He was not encouraging them to ignite the old flame through whirlwind nights on the town. He was, instead, encouraging us to “be” loving.

1 Corinthians 13 shows us love by God’s standards. It tells us that expressing agape or God’s love is a greater virtue than syrupy speech, indicating that verbalizing love is never as effective as “doing” love. It gives examples of how much greater love is than having exuberant spiritual gifts or giving of your life and possessions in selfless sacrifices.

Love is patient--even when you feel like forcefully expressing yourself.

Love is kind--even when others are not nice to you and you really want to retaliate.

Love is not jealous--especially when hubby comes home too tired to listen after giving all of his energy and time to work and you feel you are going unnoticed.

Love does not brag--even when you want to tell the world about your accomplishments.

Love is not arrogant--but is instead humble, assuming others to be right when they correct us.

Love does not act unbecoming--even when being rude and overbearing would allow you to get your way.

Love does not seek her own--even when it is profitable for you to do so.

Love is not easily provoked--even when you’ve been changing dirty diapers all day and your husband comes home irritated from a long day at work.

Love does not take into account wrong suffered--even when it seems every one is against you or you are openly attacked.

Love does not rejoice in unrighteousness--even when it seems that the other person deserved the ill treatment.

Love rejoices in the truth--even when it seems easier and more beneficial to lie or mislead.

Love bears all things--even when disappointments seem overwhelming.

Love believes all things--even when you’ve been hurt and don’t feel like trusting anyone.

Love hopes all things--even though your visions have been dimmed by years of disappointments.

Love endures all things--especially when you think you can’t endure the people or the circumstances in your life anymore.

Love never fails--even when you feel overwhelmed and your situation seems hopeless.

Love will not crumble when placed in stressful or difficult situations, but instead, remains selflessly faithful, even to the point of death.

ANGELA DECOTEAU
St. Amant, Louisiana, USA

16 real-world ways to help nature all year

Here's how to befriend butterflies and bees, build soil, save water, make a healthy home, and more.
Lose your lawn
Make compost
Choose a better way to clean
Befriend bees
Catch and save the rain
Get all 16 ideas

About Avocados - Grow Your Own Tree

Don't throw out that seed! You can grow a beautiful houseplant or even your own tree following these simple steps.

Wash the seed. Using three toothpicks, suspend it broad end down over a water-filled glass to cover about an inch of the seed.
Put it in a warm place out of direct sunlight and replenish water as needed. You should see roots and stem sprout in about two to six weeks.
When the stem is six to seven inches long, cut it back to about three inches.
When the roots are thick and the stem has leafed out again, plant it in a rich humus soil in a 10-1/2" diameter pot, leaving the seed half exposed.
Give it frequent, light waterings with an occasional deep soak. Generally, the soil should be moist but not saturated. Yellowing leaves are a sign of over-watering; let the plant dry out for a few days.
The more sunlight, the better.
If leaves turn brown and fry at the tips, too much salt has accumulated in the soil. Let water run freely into the pot and drain for several minutes.
When the stem is 12 inches high, cut it back to 6 inches to encourage the growth of new shoots.
Don't expect your house plant to bear fruit. Although this does occur occasionally, it usually requires grafting. A plant grown from seed will take anywhere from five to 13 years to flower and bear fruit. Fruit on trees grown from seeds are seldom good to eat.

Avocados in the Home Garden
California Avocado trees are one of the most popular tropical fruit trees used in landscaping in zones 9, 10 and 11. They like soil ph of 6 to 6.5. It is a shallow rooted tree that needs good aeration and does best when mulched with coarse material such as redwood bark or other woody mulch about 2" in diameter. Use about 1/3 cubic yard per tree, but keep it about 6 to 8 inches away from the trunk. Plant in a non-lawn area with full sun, protected from wind and frost. The ideal time to plant is March through June. During summer there is risk of sun damage since young trees can't take up water very well.
The hole should be as deep as the root ball and just a bit wider. Gently place the root ball in the hole taking care not to disturb the delicate root system. If the ball is root-bound, carefully loosen up the soil around the edge and clip away any roots that are going in circles. Back fill the hole with soil. Do not use gravel or potting mix.
The major nutrients needed by avocado trees are nitrogen, phosphorus and potassium (NPK) in a 7-4-2 fertilizer and zinc. Feed young trees 1/3 to 1/2 pound of actual nitrogen per tree per year, spread out over several applications if you like.
When watering, it is best to soak the soil well, then allow it to dry out somewhat before watering again. At planting, the tree can hold about 2 gallons of water. Depending on the weather, your tree may need a gallon of water a day along the coast. Typically, trees need to be watered two to three times a week. A mature tree will take about 20 gallons of water a day.
This information was provided by Dr. Mary Lu Arpaia, Extension Subtropical Horticulturist, Kearney Agriculture Center, Parlier, CA. and Dr. Ben Faber, Farm Advisor, Soils and Water, Avocados and Subtropicals, Ventura County, CA. For more information about avocado horticulture, visit http://www.ucavo.ucr.edu.

Free Books - Gutenberg Project

There are over 28,000 free books in the Project Gutenberg Online Book Catalog.

It's Easy Being Green...

30 simple Earth-friendly tips from wholeliving.com.
Get the Tips

ANTIOXIDANTS, THEY’RE A PART OF LIFE

Did you know the very act of eating increases oxidative stress in your body – which is an attack on your cells from rogue molecules called free radicals? For this reason, maintaining high levels of antioxidants that protect your blood is key to living healthy on Atkins. Read more about antioxidants, including how to shop for them in the grocery, in a new article from our resident nutritionist Colette Heimowitz.

I Heard Something Awesome On TV This Morning....

For a change, something GOOD off the boob tube -

"When God created the earth, he counted it all good, except one thing..." (and this is so true if you recall in Genesis), ..."He said it was not good for man to be alone"

How awesomely true this is....makes me want to be the best woman, wife, and mother I can be - being Honey Bears dream come true!

Seeing As I'm On A Relationship Role Here, I've Got A Post Reminder...

That I too, needed to reaffirm to myself:

Becoming The Woman Of Our Man's Dreams...

Becoming the woman of his dreams won't happen until we decide we would rather win his heart than win the battle, do right than be right, give more than get more, wrap our arms around him instead of wrap him around our little finger. Becoming the woman of his dreams involves sacrifice. It involves respecting him as a man and a leader, adoring him as the one who makes your heart skip a beat, initiating intimate friendship through creating commonalities, safeguarding your home by putting him second only to God, encouraging him in his pursuits and dreams, and sexually fulfilling him. Many times this means denying ourselves and putting our man's needs above our own.

How true these words are!!

Book Review - Put Your Dream To The Test

Dr. John Maxwell, author of this awesome book: Put Your Dreams To The Test, has devised yet another way for you to reach your dreams. We all have what works and we all know what doesn't - Dr. Maxwell has designed ten questions to ask yourself, to Put Your Dreams To The Test:

· The Ownership Question
· The Clarity Question
· The Reality Question
· The Passion Question
· The Pathway Question
· The People Question
· The Cost Question
· The Tenacity Question
· The Fulfillment Question
· The Significance Question

Now mind you, like I said, we all have our own ways, ideas and inspirations, but it doesn't hurt to learn something new - maybe one person found an area of success where we've find a dead end. What ever way you find to successfully reach your dreams, run with it!

This is an easy read, short, to the point and helps you to find your path to the answers.

Don't dismiss your dreams, don't allow situations or circumstances to deter you - no matter how hard that can be sometimes - from achieving your dreams. Just know that what ever dreams are forever in your heart, that for some 'odd' reason, you can't shake them, know beyond a shadow of a doubt that they are yours, for you to pursue and not quit!

This is an excellent book to give as a gift or to add to your personal library. He did a very good job at not only writing it, but pinpointing the specifics.

"...wherever you are, whatever you are doing, this new book will absolutely and positively transform your view of leadership and the dream for YOUR life that God wants to share and develop in YOU."

Special thanks to Thomas Nelson for this wonderful opportunity to review another amazing book!

Be Appreciative...

Be Appreciative

Successful people are thankful and appreciative. Appreciative people have a “charisma” to them. Their ability to value acts of kindness inspires us and makes us want to perform accordingly. Find ways to express your appreciation for what you are given… verbally, often, generously, considerately, and quickly.

“In every thing give thanks: for this is the will of God in Christ Jesus concerning you.” (1 Thessalonians 5:18)

Guy Clark, Stuff That Works Lyrics...

There' a reason to ths post, as I normally don't post lyrics...

Well, I took a lot in prayer, felt better for it, have had many blessings and answers, and that's always a good thing, actually, it's the best medicine that heals any wounds....

Anyway, after taking a walk, I come back to find that there are two movies on tv - one, is Honey Bears favorites (watch it because I love him) and the other, I never have watched from beginning to end....I stopped on this channel AGAIN, when this really cool song was playing in the background...it's The Rookie, with Dennis Quaid.

The song is by Guy Clark, Stuff That Works Lyrics:

Kinda says a lot to me right now:

I got an ol’ blue shirt And it suits me just fine I like the way it feels So I wear it all the time I got an old guitar It won’t ever stay in tune I like the way it sounds In a dark and empty room
I got an ol’ pair of boots And they fit just right I can work all day And I can dance all night I got an ol’ used car And it runs just like a top I get the feelin’ it ain’t Ever gonna stop

Chorus
Stuff that works, stuff that holds up The kind of stuff you don’t hang on the wall Stuff that’s real, stuff you feel The kind of stuff you reach for when you fall
I got a pretty good friend Who’s seen me at my worst He can’t tell if I’m a blessing Or a curse But he always shows up When the chips are down That’s the kind of stuff I like to be around

Chorus

I got a woman I love She’s crazy and paints like God She’s got a playground sense of justice She won’t take odds I got a tattoo with her name Right through my soul I think everything she touches Turns to gold

Chorus

Actually, ALL the music in this movie is really good, this song just stuck out there with me...hmmmm :-)

In case you haven't watched it, although it IS an older movie, it's about a man, his dream, a wife that supports his dream, and one big amazing marriage! Great movie about two people who got it right despite the negatives, circumstances, situations, other people's opinions, etc. !

Free Craft Projects and Needlework Patterns

Variety of craft projects to make for every crafting interest. Needlework patterns and crafts for kids too

Instructions for Placemat Tote

Printable Version
Materials Needed:
2 placemats
2- 50" pieces of cotton webbing
fabric to get 2 pockets 9" by 8"
2- 18" long, 5/8" wide grosgrain for ties

Free Quilting Patterns - Quilt in a Day

Free Quilting Patterns - Quilt in a Day

Kindly contributed by: Linda Maison
Here is a quickie quilting project for making a patchwork quilt.
Size: 16" x 102"

What you need: 3/4 yd. of 9 different fabrics; 5 3/4 yds. of fabric for backing; 10 yds. bias binding, 1" wide; scraps of synthetic 4 ply yarn; thread; puffy quilt batt.
What to do:
1. Wash and iron all fabrics.
2. Cut twelve 9" squares from each 3/4 yd. of fabric.
3. Lay the squares out on the floor to form a pleasing pattern. Make 12 horizontal rows of 9 blocks each.
4. Sew the blocks together with 1/4" seams. Press. Join the rows together. Press.
5. Cut the backing fabric in half crosswise. Remove the selvages. Join the two pieces together along one side with a 1/4" seam. Press.
6. Layer the quilt top (right side up), batting, and backing (right side down). Baste the three layers together.
7. To tie quilt, thread yarn needle with a double strand of yarn. Stitch through the corner of each block, tying a square knot on top of the quilt.
8. Trim batting and backing even with the top. Apply bias binding to the top of the quilt. Fold over to the back and blind-stitch in place with matching thread.

Make Your Own Oven Mitts and Fingertip Mitts

Oven Mitts and Fingertip Mitts

These two mitts styles are easy to make and pretty quick, too.
Download the pattern as a .pdf
Click here for text-only printable instructions.
For a set of full oven mitts, you need 1/2 yard of the following: outer fabric, lining fabric, cotton batting, mylar/poly batting (can substitute with an additional 1/2 yard of cotton batting). It's best to print out the pattern and take it to the fabric store with you to make sure you get enough. You also need a package of double-fold extra wide bias tape and thread to match the fabric and bias tape..For the fingertip mitts, you need less than 1/4 yard of outer fabric, lining, cotton batting and mylar/poly batting. Also, you need a package of double fold bias tape and thread to match the bias tape.

God conquers only what we yield to Him...

God conquers only what we yield to Him -
Read Isaiah 40:31

The Message: 27-31Why would you ever complain, O Jacob, or, whine, Israel, saying,"God has lost track of me. He doesn't care what happens to me"?Don't you know anything? Haven't you been listening?God doesn't come and go. God lasts. He's Creator of all you can see or imagine.He doesn't get tired out, doesn't pause to catch his breath. And he knows everything, inside and out.He energizes those who get tired, gives fresh strength to dropouts.For even young people tire and drop out, young folk in their prime stumble and fall.But those who wait upon God get fresh strength. They spread their wings and soar like eagles,They run and don't get tired, they walk and don't lag behind.

Learn To Crochet or Knit With Lions Brand Yarn

Learn to Crochet
You can learn to crochet by following our simple, illustrated step-by-step instructions and by the end of chapter 4, you'll be on your way. Instructions are also available in French and Spanish
Learn to Knit
You can learn to knit by following our simple, illustrated step-by-step instructions and by the end of chapter 2, you'll be knitting. Instructions are also available in French and Spanish.
Stitch Finder
With nearly 100 knit and crochet stitches, this section helps you learn an unfamiliar stitch for a pattern or create your own design utilizing a selection of stitches from this library. Choose from a variety of edgings, crochet motifs, lace stitches, cables and more.
Video
Learn special techniques like knitting with Ruffles or using a knitting machine by watching our video lessons.

Great is his faithfulness;....

Great is his faithfulness; his mercies begin afresh each day. Lamentations 3:23

Once God has forgiven you, he doesn't keep track of your sins. What great news! That means you have a clean slate each and every day. And you are greeted by God's warm smile every morning.

For more information, visit NewLivingTranslation.com
Taken from the Living Water Calendar © 2002 by Tyndale House Publishers, Inc. All rights reserved.

Find Some Great Relationship Articles Here...

I just found this forum that has some great, Godly, womanly articles to read:
http://chinese-school.netfirms.com/forums/submit-articles-vf18.html

MARRIAGE; Caring Enough To Listen = COMMUNICATION Part II

GREAT communication message:

An emotionally safe marriage establishes a foundation of trust. Your partner is supposed to be your helpmate. Someone to help and encourage each other to improve. Someone to tell you when you are wrong. Someone to allow you some space, or room to think when needed. Someone to learn to love you the way God defines love. Marriage was meant to be a safe place to grow spiritually, mentally and emotionally. This is why God has given us healthy boundaries. Jesus died so we might truly experience God’s love. God is the only One that really knows how to love unconditionally. This is why it is important to consult Him often. No one is ever right about everything. Life is too short. God is quite clear about some things. Choosing to do otherwise will always cause some type of conflict. Our lives are supposed to be centered around God and His principles. It is very important to personally study and know His Word! When you know that you have stepped outside of those boundaries. Repent! Get back on track! If you have an addictive nature get help! God is able to keep you from falling! Never want to be right just for the sake of being right. This only hinders your relationship as well as your own personal growth.

Do not seek out someone to support you when you are wrong. This is one of the biggest problems in relationships. There are too many people who are willing to support wrong. This may give you some immediate self gratification. But in the long run, it really just weakens you and will eventually erode the moral fibers of your relationship. You really are being the bigger person to simply just admit when you are wrong. It is not always an issue of right or wrong. Sometimes you just do not agree. Sometimes you just feel quite strongly about something. But it has not manifested in a way that you can explain it or define it. This is when patience is developed. In its abstract stage just wait until “a little more paint gets on the canvas”. This is why your relationship with the Lord is so very important! God really does know, in His time He will help you and guide you, when you allow Him. Remember His idea of Marriage is having a “helpmeet”. That has not changed. It is very important that you develop your personal intimate relationship with the Lord. Trusting Him will further help you to effectively communicate to your spouse or whoever.

Read the rest of this here

101 Ways To Tell Your Husband, "I Love You"

101 Ways To Tell Your Husband, "I Love You"
Here are just a few highlights from the article:

PLAY A GAME TOGETHER Have fun doing things together such as playing board games, riding bumper boats, or playing miniature golf. Just remember, if he should get the best of you, don't tackle him unless you're laughing!

SHOW APPRECIATION When your husband works hard, or does something for you, let him know you appreciate him.

MAKE YOUR HOME HIS REFUGE Let your home be a haven were your husband can retreat from the stresses of life. Do your best to make it a pleasant environment.

LAUGH AT HIS ANTICS Don't let the little things that your husband does get on your nerves. If you think about it, some of these things may have been what attracted you to him! He just wouldn't be the same if he didn't do these things.

PRAY FOR HIM Ask God to give him that extra boost to make everything OK. Let your husband hear you pray too. This will let him know that when you can't make it right, you'll ask someone who can.

TAKE A WALK OR A HIKE TOGETHER Let nature set the mood for romance! Talk, listen, and hold hands.

DON'T EXPECT HIM TO READ YOUR MIND If there is something you want your husband to know about you, tell him. Don't expect him to just know what you're thinking or what you need.

LAUGH TOGETHER Forget your adults for awhile, and just act silly together. Also, if something should go awry, try to find some humor in it somewhere. This will also reduce the stress of the situation.

GIVE HIM THE BENEFIT OF THE DOUBT Don't jump to conclusions if your husband has said or done something questionable. Give him the chance to explain before you pass judgement.

LET HIM BE THE MAN OF THE HOUSE Although this is growing increasingly unpopular, it does still work. Just because your husband is in charge of the household doesn't mean that you can't share your opinions, it just means he's captain of the team.

SAY, "I'M SORRY" Although you may not want to admit it, there will be times when you're in the wrong. Maybe you've said something hurtful or done something insensitive. Never have too much pride to tell him you're sorry.

LET BYGONES BE BYGONES If your husband has done or said something to hurt you, forgive him. Don't keep bringing up the past every time you get into a disagreement, especially if he has shown remorse.

BE HONEST Don't hide things from your husband. Be open and transparent. This will help him trust you more.

BRAG ON HIM IN FRONT OF HIS FRIENDS Men naturally rely on boost in their ego now and then in order to stay confident. Let him hear you tell others about the great things he says and does.

BE DEVOTED TO HIM One of the greatest gifts that you could ever give your husband is your true faithfulness. This includes physically, emotionally, and in your thoughts. If you're struggling with temptation, nip it in the bud. Tell him your feelings in a sensitive and loving way. Don't bottle anything up, this is asking for disaster.

TRUST HIM Too many times wives just sit around and wait for their husbands to do something wrong. Cut him some slack and dare to believe in him.

LET HIM WIN It is inevitable, even in healthy marriages, to argue occasionally. What would it really hurt to just let him win? At least you wouldn't be arguing.

DON'T GO TO BED MAD Although you've probably heard this one for years, and it may have been your grandmother's first marriage advice to you, it is still true. Going to bed hurt or angry keeps feelings under the surface. When you wake up you don't want to continue the argument, so you you hold in your frustrations and they begin to mount. It's best to talk everything out, and fall asleep in each other's arms.

BE HIS BEST FRIEND Let him feel confident that you'll always be there when needs to talk, to laugh, or even cry. Let him be free to be himself at all times and stick with him through the thick and thin.

CHERISH THE SMALL THINGS Concentrate on the way he walks, the way he talks, his smile, or the way he says your name. These are really more important than you think, and no one can do it quite like him.

WORK ON YOUR WAYS It's easy to see and point out flaws in your husband, but if you're honest, you'll realize that you haven't earned a halo yet. Try to work on your own shortcomings and make yourself a better person.

DON'T BE A PESSIMIST Try not to focus too much on the negative. Keep a positive outlook in your marriage.

DON'T RUB IT IN IF YOU'RE RIGHT If you've disagreed on something and it turns out that you were right, don't gloat about it and throw it in his face.

TALK ABOUT HIS INTERESTS Bring up a subject that interests him and listen to him talk. Even if the subject doesn't interest you, enjoy watching him as he gets stirred up over the topic.

DOTE ON HIM Pick a night and wait on him hand and foot. Draw him a bath, fix his plate for him, and anything else that you can dream up!

JUST SAY IT Make it a point to say the words I love you every single day, and mean it.

Dr. Denise’s 10 Tips to Help You Stop Emotional Overeating!

Dr. Denise’s 10 Tips to Help You Stop Emotional Overeating!
“Below are ten tips that I distribute to people struggling with emotional eating issues. Taking care of our bodies, minds, spirits and emotions are all crucial to feeling balanced, healthy and joyful and to stopping overeating. I am particularly excited to include the use of the new Bach Flower Emotional Eating Kit. I have seen many people correct unhealthy behaviors and finally, after years of frustration and little success, establish healthy habits and stop emotional overeating. After 25 years in practice I am excited to report that this kit provides the missing link!”

1. CHOOSE THE HEALTHIEST FOODS YOU CAN FIND TO TRULY NOURISH YOUR BODY – You need protein, vegetables, complex carbohydrates (whole grains, veggies) and some healthy fat every single day. Drink lots of pure, non-chlorinated, filtered water. Becoming dehydrated affects all your body systems and your emotions. You will feel more balanced emotionally when you are caring for your physical needs.

2. USE BACH FLOWER REMEDIES – Bach now has a fabulous and effective emotional eating kit. It includes three remedies that directly address the core issues involved in emotional eating. These are crab apple (which helps you like and appreciate your body), cherry plum (which helps you stay in control) and chestnut bud which helps you learn from your mistakes and make permanent changes). You take 2 drops of each remedy 4 times per day directly into your mouth or in your favorite beverage. You can even put the drops on your pulse points and absorb them!

3. MOVE YOUR BODY, CHOOSE ACTIVITIES THAT YOU ENJOY – You don’t have to exercise for hours at a time. Do less and enjoy feeling better as you become stronger, more relaxed and more emotionally balanced.

4. EXPRESS YOUR FEELINGS – No one knows what’s going on inside of you if you don’t tell them. Holding your feelings in leads to emotional, spiritual and physical distress… and is likely to lead you to the cookie jar.

5. MAKE AS MANY SELF-LOVING CHOICES AS YOU CAN – Do this every day and in every area of your life! You will be happier and more content and less likely to develop those emotional food cravings.

6. GIVE YOURSELF QUIET TIME – We all need rest and peaceful time to check in with ourselves. Use deep breathing, meditation or some form of quiet introspection every day. We are often so busy doing that we forget to just “be.” If we don’t do this, we forget ourselves, we don’t meet our own needs and end up feeling resentful and using food to soothe those angry feelings.

7. SPEND TIME IN NATURE – We are all a part of the world around us, not separate from it. Relax outdoors, feel the sun and the rain, the warm and the cool. Notice the stars and breathe deeply.

8. NURTURE YOUR SPIRIT – Be creative, laugh, play, hug someone. Stop taking life so seriously. We are all still children – only in bigger bodies. Be child-like. Get some art materials, some clay or just walk on the grass in your bare feet.

9. APPRECIATE YOURSELF – This is your job. Others are too busy to make your happiness and well being their mission. If you have expectations that others will meet your needs (and they might sometimes…) you will likely be disappointed more often than not.

10. ALWAYS REMEMBER THERE ARE NO MISTAKES ONLY LESSONS – and whatever you do, NEVER UNDER ANY CIRCUMSTANCES BEAT YOURSELF UP. This will only make things worse. We are all perfect, yet it is not the human way to behave perfectly at all times. If you beat yourself up, you will feel BAD and sugars and simple carbohydrates will scream out for your attention.

Love: Feeling or Commitment?

Love: Feeling or Commitment?
Written by Steve Popoola on February 16th, 2009

Movie producers creatively represent love as something which brings a man and a woman together. In many cases, there are so many reasons why these two people should not be together. It could be differences in race, colour, religion or parental bias. In a number of cases, the main characters have reasons to hate each other and ensure that they let the other person know that they could never have reason to relate together as friends. Being romantically involved would be just imagining the impossible.

Then something happens. Fate brings them together and suddenly, the feelings they never knew was there comes to the surface. They struggle with it over and over again, until they can’t fight it anymore and then they come to realize that they love each other deeply. Thus, an unlikely relationship is born. Together they fight all opposition and cling to each other and somehow, they win at the end. Not all the romantic movies end happily. Take for instance the movie, ‘Titanic’. The guy freezes to death while ensuring that his lover survives.

It is images like this that people remember during St Valentines day, which has by the way, been heavily commercialized just like Christmas and Easter. A lot of stories had been passed down over the years about the origin of St Valentine’s day but I read recently, that a Catholic Priest in Rome said that the Saint which should be venerated on February 14th should be St Francis and not St Valentine.

But is love really a feeling as portrayed by these movies? As Christians, our instructional manual is the Bible. Although sometimes love is used with reference to feelings, yet it is not merely a feeling. Love is the Bible portrays it, is an action born out of a commitment.

‘For God so loved the world that he gave his one and only Son, that whoever believes in him shall not perish but have eternal life’ (John 3;16)

Let us look at the first part, ‘God loved the world’. I do not think that God liked what he saw in the world. In fact, the Bible says that when God saw the evil that man did, He wished that He had never created man. God however did not undo what He had created, rather, He made a commitment in the second part of that verse, ‘that He gave His one and only Son’

Jesus told the disciples, ‘A new commandment I give unto you, That ye love one another; as I have loved you, that ye also love one another. By this shall all men know that ye are my disciples, if ye have love one to another’ (John 13:34,35)

In essence, Jesus is saying, your actions will show people that you love one another! It is not the rapturous look on your face or the loving words; these are good and they have their place, but it is in the commitment!

Ask a couple who have been together for 20 or 30 years, what has kept them together. It is commitment. The feelings are good but the glue that cements a relationship, is the commitment. When you are committed to a person, you do everything to ensure that person’s well being, even when you don’t feel like doing so.

As Christians, let us have a genuine understanding of what love is and let us not be carried away by the world’s definition of love. The world’s kind of love is fake, transient and deceptive. God’s kind of love however, is deep, genuine and can be relied upon.

God loves you and so do I.© Biblepraise Fellowship Online, February 2009
Steve Popoola is the editor of Biblepraise Newsletter and the webmaster of Biblepraise Fellowship Online at http://www.biblepraise.org. British by birth, He currently resides in Lagos, Nigeria with wife Maris and their children; Praise, Stephanie and Precious. He works in the IT department of a bank. He presently serves as Church Secretary and Heads the Music Ministry in his local church . He loves to encourage and inspire through speaking forums. He is the Moderator/Editor of Biblepraise Newsletter. He can be reached through His email address, steve@biblepraise.org

Winners...

Winners are losers who got up and gave it one more try.
Dennis DeYoung

What A Great Statement About Home...

Home is that place from which, when a man has departed, he is a wanderer until he returns...

-Sir William Blackstone

I sure do mis Honey Bear...

Eukanuba Product Review

Be a pet product reviewer!

The Good Wife Award...

Here is another excellent article to read. I've snipped it to just the highlights to save space, but I truly find great words of wisom here:

Dr. Carle C. Zimmerman of Harvard University and the Rev. Lucius F. Cervantes of St. Louis University surveyed 60,000 families for their new book, “Successful American Families.” As part of their findings, the two social scientists reported:
“While we have more broken families, we also have many more good ones. These good families are increasing and getting better."

Clearly, a cornerstone of the successful family is the wife.
Just what are the criteria for a “good” wife? Each family is unique and has its own pattern and problems. But by and large, the estimable wife often has some basic characteristics. In a cross-section survey of 20 leading marital-relations advisers among member agencies of the Family Service Association of America, we have gathered a consensus of their views on the subject.

The following points, not necessarily in order of importance for every couple, may guide young wives just starting out in family life, and give other women a better perspective on their own role:

1. The good wife, grown-up enough to give as well as to receive, has the capacity to provide her husband with emotional support when needed.
She is sensitive to his feelings and moods. When he is preoccupied by tensions outside the home, she knows he is not rejecting her. If he needs praise, she’s able to offer it. In crises, she stands by him: if he loses his job or fails in a venture, she doesn’t blame him entirely, but puts on a good face and does all she can to see him through the ordeal.
She understands his impulses even though she may disapprove of his behavior.

2. To be able to give her husband emotional support, the good wife develops her own potentialities as a human being.
She fulfills herself as a person and still pulls her oar as a wife. At the same time, she grows along with her husband, expanding her horizons with his and broadening her interests as he moves ahead. She is able to keep pace with him. adjusting to the many and various changes and emotional cycles in their love.

3. Her expectations of what her husband can do are realistic.

4. The good wife shares her husband’s goals, fitting them to her own.
She is willing to wait patiently for the ultimate rewards. In attaining these objectives, she shares responsibilities as well as pleasures and problems.

5. Through the warmth of her affection, the good wife helps keep their love alive.
She sends him off with a kiss in the morning and greets him as fondly when he returns. To her, physical love is a symbol of devotion rather than an end in itself, and she is aware that such physical need is usually greater in the male. The considerate wife lets her mate know that she finds him desirable, and never makes him feel inadequate as a male.

6. The good wife has a deep, abiding, confident faith in the man she has married.
She wants others to respect him as she does. In a group conversation, she permits him to take the lead and shouldn’t interrupt him constantly or spoil his joke - She avoids criticizing him in public. Nor does she disparage associates and friends he admires. She follows an open-door policy for them in her heart even if she finds them dull or sometimes dependable. She may compromise gracefully, however, by not seeing them too often.

7. While she enjoys her husband’s companionship, the good wife doesn’t become too dependent on it.
Respecting his need for occasional privacy, she learns when to keep quiet if she’s aware he is upset or uncommunicative. If he’d rather read or watch a ball game on television, she avoids disturbing him with idle chatter. While family unity is desirable, she doesn’t force him into “togetherness.” If her husband invites her to join him in golf, fishing, or bowling and she’s interested, she’ll go along for the comradeship. But if he prefers some social time with other men, and she senses that she shouldn’t intrude, the good wife doesn’t consider this a personal affront. She knows she doesn’t have to be in her husband’s corner every moment of his free time.

8. Considering homemaking her profession, she enjoys being a capable household manager.
Home should be more than a place for her husband to hang his hat. he should find pleasure in returning to it each day. She makes every effort to keep their home reasonably cheerful, a restful haven. Meals are enticing in variety. Unless he’s willing to do such household chores as washing dishes or changing diapers, she does not insist on it Although he can help around the house, her mate isn’t converted into a “mother substitute.” If she has a part-time career or full-time job, it doesn’t take priority in her life, and her own work should not become more important to her than his.

9. Conflicts are normal in marriage, and the astute wife doesn’t let tensions pile up; she works them out as they come along.
Above all, she must be able to communicate her feelings and respect her husband’s, though they may differ. She tries to find out what’s “eating” her mate, concedes that his viewpoint may be reasonable and opens the way to discussion and compromise. When she knows the “sore spots” in his personality, she avoids the temptation to strike at them. If she has a grievance herself, she tries to choose the right time and place to air it, limiting her arguments to relevant facts. Above all, she retains her sense of humor and sense of proportion.

Naturally, no one wife is likely to fit all these criteria for the ever-loving spouse. Nor does anything less than these criteria necessarily make a woman a “defective” wife. Obviously, the characteristics of American families vary widely, and no outsider can say what is best for each couple. But this can serve as a guide to women who wish to evaluate their own role, and to husbands who may now awaken to the fact that their mates may well merit at the very least a symbolic “good wife” award.

Taken from The Salisbury Times. Salisbury, Maryland. December 18, 1960

Words Of Wifely Wisdom...

I am doing some research and it seems I post more to this blog then to the webpage: Be The Heart Of Your Home , but I ran across this nifty note that really touched home with me. I am posting it here because, you know...when you really think about it, about your men, don't these statements make sense and WORK?!

Words Of Wifely Wisdom…
…from that ever-dependable source of domestic knowledge, Dorothy Dix.

DEAR DOROTHY DIX: Not long ago you published an article in your column entitled “What makes a man a good husband?” Will you please write a companion piece to it on “What makes a woman a good wife?”W. J. MAC M., JR.

ANSWER: Well, taking it by and large, I think it takes a larger assortment of virtues and more know-how to make a woman a good wife than it does to make a man a good husband. It is a harder job, with more angles to it, and hence more difficult to give satisfaction. It’s like beauty.

Husbands expect their wives to keep young and good-looking, but wives don’t expect their husbands to maintain their boyish figures and keep their hair.
But, coming down to brass tacks, I think that the thing that goes farthest towards making a woman a good wife is for her to be easy to live with. That is the virtue above all other virtues that every husband desires in his wife. He wants a wife who, in the words of the old poet, is to his faults blind, to his virtues very kind.

Next, I would rate a sense of humor as a “must” among wifely virtues. Every marriage is bound to have a lot of ups and downs in it. No husband is without his aggravating peculiarities, no children are not at times little pests. There are sickness and hard times in practically every family. But the ideal wife is the woman who can laugh things off, instead of having hysterics over them; who furns a smiling face on life and bucks her family up with her own courage.

A good wife is a woman who makes a career of wifehood. She takes it on the level. She doesn’t expect her husband to be something that he is not and never can be. She knows all his faults and defects, but she never re-proaches him with them. She makes of her love a cloak that hides his imperfections from others.

The woman who is a good wife Is a good provider. She is a good cook and feeds her family well and wisely. Her house is always tidy and a place of rest and peace.In a word, it sums up to this: The good wife is a woman who tries as hard to make a success of being a wife as she would at any other profession.

(I bolded the text that I truly beleive)