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There is a new LIVE bible study online that I really encourage everyone to check out. It is directed by Nathan Pearl (Michael Pearl's son from NGJ ministry). They started off with and hour and a half of going into detail about the bible. Starting with Genesis and reading through verse by verse. Then Nathan talked for about 30 min I believe to sum up the whole thing in the "after the bible study" part, they kept the cameras rolling their live feed. It was so informative! It was awesome too, how they had the live chat going on at the same time, so we could all be commenting and discussing "quietly" while watching the live video. I will be watching this every chance I get, and if I miss it they keep them on archive also.

See ya next Sunday 6pm central time, 4pm Pacific time (salem, oregon) @


Home | Contend For Your Faith



Have you viewed them yet? Really great, make sure you do...

30-Day Husband Encouragement Challenge 30

Day Thirty:
"...This is my beloved, and this is my friend..." Song of Solomon 5:16b

Friends can be completely honest with each other, but friendships are strained when truth is not spoken in love. How are you speaking to your beloved? Are you so "used" to him that you don't appreciate the wonder of his friendship? That is your challenge today. Is your sweetheart your best friend? Does he know this? Have you told him, or do you assume he "just knows"?

Friendship is something that is cultivated through the good times and the bad. Friends can share their hearts, but they don't step on each other's hearts. The way to have and be a good friend is to cultivate and celebrate the relationship. As you end this "30-Day Encouragement Challenge," celebrate your friendship with your husband. Get alone and reflect on your beloved friend. Write him a letter, listing the qualities you admire and appreciate about him. If you are creative with words, write and frame a poem about him.

Perhaps you can prepare a special meal, just for the two of you, and read the letter or poem to him. Ask if you can pray for him, and if he is willing, thank God for your love and friendship, asking for His blessing on your home. Encouragement, as you have seen these past 30 days, is a synonym for love in action.
***
How has this challenge changed your heart and life, dear friend? Did God encourage you as you planned ways to encourage your husband? Were there difficult days where you simply needed to trust that God was working? Days when it was hard to leave the results to God? Remember that God is faithful, and He will bless you for your willingness to obey Him. His ways are not our ways, and perhaps He will honor you in ways you do not expect, but one thing is sure - you will never be the same because of your commitment to be more like Christ!

30-Day Husband Encouragement Challenge 29

Day Twenty-nine:
"A prudent man foresees evil, and hides himself; the simple pass on, and are punished." Prov. 27:12

As you near the end of your Encouragement Challenge, take time to think about your husband's responses to the wickedness of the culture, the media, etc. Does your husband recognize and avoid evil? Does he regularly turn his back on pornography, sexual temptations, and the urge to lie and cheat?

This is a valuable character trait. Like Joseph in the Old Testament, who fled from the wicked advances of Potiphar's wife, this takes an understanding that these kinds of sins are first and foremost, sins against God (Gen. 39:9).

Praise your husband when he recognizes and turns his back on wickedness. If you can think of a circumstance where your husband stood for righteousness, remind him of that today-and express your gratitude.

30-Day Husband Encouragement Challenge 28

Day Twenty-eight:
"The fear of the LORD is the instruction of wisdom, and before honor is humility." Prov. 15:33

Sometimes, when we just "know" we are right and our husbands are wrong, it takes great humility to honor them. It is difficult to speak well of our husbands when our own hearts are puffed up with pride.

As part of your Encouragement Challenge today, pray that you will respond to the Lord in faith and humility before you react to your husband. Speak wisely and well, and leave the results to God.

The humility that comes from a right relationship with God - the humility that comes when a man is willing to listen to God and be taught from His Word - is indeed a beautiful quality. Jesus was an example of this kind of humility when he was willing to submit to His Father's will (John 6:38; Matt. 26:39).

Does your husband have that kind of humility? Is he willing to learn from and submit to direction from the Lord? Let your husband know how precious this is to your marriage relationship.

30-Day Husband Encouragement Challenge 27

Day Twenty-seven:
"Be of good courage, and he shall strengthen your heart, all you who hope in the LORD." Ps. 31:24

You have almost completed the "30-Day Encouragement Challenge." Perhaps it has taken you a tremendous amount of courage to speak words of encouragement consistently to your husband. Courage comes as we place our trust in God. Have faith that God will continue to work long after your encouraging words have been shared.

There are lots of "tough guys" in the world, but true courage comes from the Lord. Does your husband exhibit the courage to take an unpopular stand, perhaps even to stand alone against evil? Is he courageous in his faith? Does he work hard to change injustice? Is he a stickler for the truth? Does he protect you or your family from the
attacks of the Enemy?

Psalm 27:14 says this kind of courage comes from "waiting" on the Lord for His strength. If your budget allows, "award" your husband with a medal, trophy, framed picture of a brave knight, or some other token that represents his courage as a man of God. Praise evidences of your husband's courage in protecting you, your marriage, your family, or your home.

30-Day Husband Encouragement Challenge 26

Day Twenty-six:
"And Jesus increased in wisdom and stature, and in favor with God and men." Luke 2:52

If you have faithfully encouraged your husband, you will no doubt have seen some changes in his life...and your own life, as well. Encouragement is a wonderful habit that we hope you will continue for the rest of your life.

The important thing is to keep growing in Christ and obeying the Word of God as you respond to your husband. As you consider today how to bless your husband and not tear him down, think of ways that you can encourage balance in your home.

Jesus led a balanced life. He grew mentally, physically, spiritually, and socially. As you see your husband branching out in these areas, is there a pattern of growth? Is your husband striving for balance in his life? If so, let him know you have noticed, and ask how you can further encourage that balance.

If your husband is out of balance - focusing on one area to the exclusion of the others - consider whether there are things you can do to help restore or create balance in his life. Can you encourage times for sports or exercise? Keep the children quiet for a study time? Invite friends over for dinner? Stimulate his mind?

Be sure you are working toward balance in your own life, as well. Be an example!

30-Day Husband Encouragement Challenge 25

Day Twenty-five:
"...seek peace, and pursue it." Ps. 34:14b
"You will keep him in perfect peace, whose mind is stayed on You, because he trusts in You." Is. 26:3

Before you consider whether these verses describe your husband, consider your own presence in the home. Do you promote an atmosphere of peace, or do critical words often flow from your mouth? Do you struggle with anger? If so, before you continue with your Encouragement Challenge, confess these sinful habits to the Lord, and determine to speak words of peace to your family today.

Does your husband bring an atmosphere of peace into your home? Is his presence a calming influence? Does he bring music, entertainment, books or people into your home that build a sense of serenity? Let him know how much you appreciate this wonderful quality, and support his choices.

If, on the other hand, he is quickly angered or he creates chaos rather than calm, ask God to give you an abundance of the kind of peace that will speak to his heart. Be patient and loving. Create an inviting atmosphere of peace, as much as possible.

30-Day Husband Encouragement Challenge 24

Day Twenty-four:
"And you, fathers, do not provoke your children to wrath, but bring them up in the training and admonition of the Lord." Eph. 6:4

Children can be quite a challenge to the marriage relationship. A wise wife will support her husband's leadership in the home as much as possible, and will praise him for his fathering skills. Negativity makes a man feel like a failure, and may make him to want to give up.

Does your husband discipline your children wisely? Does he show them love and encourage them? Does he take an interest in their activities and dreams? Does he spend time with them? Does he take part in developing their character? Praise him for these important life skills.

If you don't have children - is your husband positive and encouraging around other people's children? Let him know that you have noticed.

If your husband does not experience positive relationships with children, you will needto figure out why. Perhaps he had negative experiences as a child with his own parents, and needs to learn how to respond. Perhaps you can lovingly and patiently show him how to parent - while still maintaining his authority in the home.

30-Day Husband Encouragement Challenge 23

Day Twenty-three:
"Let your speech always be with grace..." Col. 4:6a

You're moving toward the home stretch of your 30-day challenge! Just a reminder of what you've committed: "You can't say anything negative about your husband... to your husband...or to anyone else, about your husband. "Each day, say something that you admire or appreciate
about your husband...to your husband...and to someone else, about your husband! "In all things showing yourself to be a pattern of good works..." Titus 2:7a Does the "30-Day Encouragement Challenge" seem like hard work? Or is it becoming a pleasant exercise in genuine Christ-likeness in your home? You are only scratching the surface of ways to encourage your mate.Is your husband organized? Is he diligent? Is he persistent? These are all related to a pattern of personal disciplines that are worthy of your praise. Affirm him for one or more of these traits that you see in him.

Some men have not developed these qualities because they are naturally more spontaneous. You can praise his spontaneity! Perhaps God has called you alongside to help him with disciplines he has not yet developed - but this does not include nagging. You can keep him organized. Whatever the need, you can be your husband's cheerleader, encouraging him when he wants to give up.

Today... I sewed wool diaper covers (longies)

This is today's project. I have heard so many good things about wool diaper covers that I decided to make some from old sweaters and try them. I went to Value Village with my sister-in-law and bought 4 old sweaters, 2 for her and 2 for me. She was able to make 2 longies and 5 smaller diaper covers. I was able to make 2 longies and 4 diaper covers. We read about these online, it said to "felt" the sweaters before continuing. So we placed each sweater in a pillow case and tied a knot. Threw them in the front loader washer, with a few jeans, mild sun brand powder soap a few drops of Lanolin to help with waterproofing. Turned the cycle on hot, and as long as it goes, at as heavy-dirty setting as I have, to really rough up the sweaters. Then they went in the dryer for a few cycles, and it was perfect for making diaper covers! They were adult women size to start with and young child size when they came out! Definitely looked more like felt now than knit. This helps keep the wetness in and makes for easier laundering later, you don't have to worry so much about "shrinking" them latter LOL. Don't really think its possible at this point.
This is the first one I made. A longie. I started by cutting off the sleeves of the sweater making them square at top, turning one inside out, then putting the right-side-out one inside the wrong-side-out one, just like you make pants, to sew the crotch seam, front to back. Sorry I forgot to take a picture of that one. Then I sewed the feet closed, and added a waistband of elastic. I only rough estimated with all the measurements. It's better to make it a little big, try it on and be able to take it in a little than to make them a little small and it not fit at all.
This is where the sleeve would have been, I just forgot to take a before pic so I folded the longie and put it back where it was. (above)
I cut straight down the middle, top to bottom because it turned out to measure exactly right for me. Then cut straight across to make two little squares. The tan ribbing going to be the waist of the diaper cover.

The two measurements that matter here: around baby's hips, is how wide you want to cut this square (when its open obviously). And with a prefold diaper on, the distance from the baby's belly button, down under crotch, to back. (If you want add 2 inches for elastic waistband.) That in half, is the distance from the tan ribbing to the line straight across the sweater that I cut here. (above)
Then I cut the collar off the sweater, at a curve a few inches away from the tan ribbing. Then cut that in half, making two leg cuffs. Double check the size of baby's thighs here, you can trim off a little if they are way too big. Then I sewed down the side, making it a loop. See how the shoulder of the sweater is a fold, making the other side of the loop.
(above) Then I took the square pieces, sewed a seam down the side. Sew again to reinforce it. And you cant really see by my picture but as I got closer to the waist/ top/tan ribbing I made the seam angle in just by and inch or so to make a slightly smaller waist. If that isn't enough, you can sew elastic waistbands in, or braid a "belt" with yarn and weave it in and out all around the waits. Just look these up on the internet and you'll see lots of example pictures.
(above) I took that seam I just made down the side and "moved it" to the center of my diaper cover, still insideout. then sewed the middle third of the bottom opening, making a crotch of the cover. Then I cut out the leg openings, by making little round cuts up and out from the bottom seam.
Then I turned the leg cuffs right-side-out and placed them inside the cover which is in-side-out, lining up the seams on the leg cuffs with the crotch seam (which goes left to right, the little red line at the bottom of the cover, in the above picture). Then carefully sew around both leg openings, remembering to pull/ keep lots of tension on the material so it will be able to still stretch afterwards.
This is another picture, one for Kailey's baby. Same thing just has longer leg cuffs. I really like this one (above). Looks a little silly, but it is the most practical one we made.
This is a picture of the first 4 I made. Two longies, out of the sleeves of the sweaters, and two regular diaper covers out of the body of the sweater. The cover to the right, I had to use left over strips of the sweater to make the leg cuffs, I just hemmed them and sewed them right in.

I tried the longies on her already and I guess they stay in place better if the legs fit comfortably, not large and baggy. So I'll probably take in the seam down each leg slightly. That and the leg cuffs on the covers are a little small since she was sleeping while we made these, I thought I over estimated, but I'll have to take these out as far as I can, which isn't much, but they'll work or I'll just put them away in storage for later use.

I really like them so far, can't believe how good they work.

Pumpkin Bread

We made so much good food from that one pumpkin. Here is the recipe for the pumpkin bread.


wet ingredients:
2 C pumpkin puree
4 eggs
1 C oil
3 C sugar
2/3 C water

dry ingredients:
3 1/2 C flour
1 1/2 tsp salt
1 tsp ginger
1 tsp cloves
2 tsp cinnamon
2 tsp baking soda
1/2 tsp baking powder
1 tsp allspice

Mix the wet ingredients in one bowl, the dry ingredients in another bowl. Then mix them together. Pour into two greased loaf pans. Bake for 350' for 1 hour.

Pumpkin Cookies

I found this wonderful recipe on Allrecipes.com. It is wonderful. I only swapped out the white flour for wheat flour because I don't have white flour in my house, but you could swap it back if you wanted.

Pumpkin Cookies:

Mix in bowl:
1 C Pumpkin Pured
1 egg
1 tsp vanilla
1 1/2 C sugar
1/2 C brown sugar

Mix in another bowl:
2 1/2 flour
1 tsp baking powder
1 tsp baking soda
2 tsp cinnamon
1/2 tsp cloves, ground
1/2 tsp allspice
1/2 tsp nutmeg
1/2 tsp salt

Mix the two together. Drop by spoonful on cookie sheets. Bake 350' for 15-20 mins.

Recipe has this but they were sweet enough that we didn't need/ want the icing:

Icing:
1 T butter, melted
3 T milk
1 tsp vanilla
2 C powdered sugar

Today...We Cooked Pumpkins (Tuesday)

A good friend of mine gave one of her beautiful pumpkins. We left it outside for the past week or so for decoration, but I noticed that it feels like frost to me outside and we'd better bring it in and cook it up if we were going to get to eat it... yummmy....



So I showed them a different way to cook it, cut it in half. Scoop the seeds out. Peel it, chop it up in to cubes, boil it.
Marcus really enjoyed his job of scooping out the seeds. Which of course we rinsed, dried and are storing for next year's garden. I want to see if they turn out so beautiful for me!
These wonderful boys are growing into such good helpers!! They could do everthing but use the knife to chop them up. They scooped, washed, peeled and cleaned up! I just love noting how much more they can do this year compared to last year :)

So much fun working together, next up I'll tell ya all the yummy things we cooked up from this single wonderful pumpkin.

Today... We raked Leaves (Monday)

David had the day off today and I had no appointments to do with/for the midwife, so we raked leaves today. Lots of fun. The children really enjoyed playing in them more than putting them in the compost pile. David also was smart and threw in "if you help rake a lot of leaves, I'll give you a dollar". That was plenty of motivation for them!!! LOL
The boys thought Victoria would like to play in the pile too, but I think they got a little carried away and almost completely buried her... so I had to explain to them that she probably didn't want to get buried; she probably just liked to play in them :) She was VERY damp from playing in all those cold wet leaves, so I brought her in and gave her a warm bath immediately.

Blue Rose Dress for Victoria

This is the first dress I have ever made. I have done a variety of crafting, crocheting being my favorite, but this is the first time making a dress. I am so proud of it! It has a soft yellow matterial covered in small blue roses, then I lined the ENTIRE thing with light blue material. I figured it was winter time and I'm tired of layering Victoria in so many under clothes. I'd rather just have a few thicker dresses, and only need to put a shirt , tights and bloomers on underneath, rather than 3 shirts, etc.
I've never done a button hole in my life either, there are five going down the front of this. They look so nice! I discovered what 3 more buttons on my sewing machine are for: button holes... LOL.
Then I put a long tie on either side for a pretty bow on the back. The pattern didn't have this but I felt like the dress was way too big and needed to be adjustable, because I also made it floor length on her, so she'll have lots of room to grow! It also asked for a collar in the pattern but I didn't know if I liked it or not so I left it off. I love it!!

What have you been up to? What project have you finished lately, or are close to finishing? I'd love to hear... That was my fun for the month... now back to school and cleaning

Holiday Cleaning time!!!!

I like to always TRY and stay ahead in everything in life. Cleaning is one of those areas. Seeing as Thanksgiving is in two weeks and we are having two big dinners over here at my house: my family and David's family, I decided the smart thing to do would be get all the cleaning done now, before those days. That will be one HUGE less thing to have to do the day before the dinners...


So I will be trying to do one large deep cleaning chore each day for the next week. Today was washing the outside of ALL my kitchen cabinets.


I just used good ol Murphys wood oil soap, the boys helped and we washed and washed till all the splatters came off those dirty cabinets. Waited for that to dry then sprayed with pledge and rubbed that in as the protecting layer. It sure shines now!!! And my whole kitchen smells nice!!!Hard work pays off. The cabinets look GREAT!!!!! Thank you wonderful sons for helping me!!!!

Stripping cloth diapers

Today I stripped all of my cloth diapers. I have never done this before. The most I have done was washing them several times in hot water in the washer machine with no soap. But this IS THE REAL way to do it. I didn't even know about this till yesterday.

I noticed that Victoria was starting to get a diaper rash the past few days, just barely. And my babies NEVER get diaper rashes, I believe I am very aware of what they eat and we avoid all "hot poops" at all cost. :)
So I got online to read about residue build up on cloth diapers and diaper rashes and I learned that even if I use a 1/4 of the recommended amount of store bought soaps I can still be having build up. Most store bought laundry soap leaves residue. And I also learned that if I am not using enough/ the proper amount of store bought soaps my diapers could possibly not be getting all the way clean, which was also true. Her diapers were also giving off a strong ammonia smell, but when I'd change her there wasn't much wetness??? Which was also a sign of soap build up.
ANNNNND.... her diapers were begining to leak only at the legs. So I had all of the symptoms of soap build up on my cloth diapers.... thus the decision to "strip" them.

* leaking at legs
* strong ammonia smell
* diaper rash, unexplained
* using regular store bought laundry soap

1. So I took all of my "happy heinyz" pocket diapers, unstuffed them, and all my extra prefolds, put them in a basket next to the stove.
2. Put BIG pot of water on the stove to boil, turned off heat, removed from hot burner.
3. Put only the amount of diapers in the pot which could be submerged completely in hot water.
4. Stirred and soaked for at least 20 - 30 mins.
5. Dumped the entire pot of hot water and diapers in my front loader washer.
6. Proceeded to wash the load in HOT water, NO SOAP, on my heaviest/ hottest setting with extra rinse.
7. Tossed them in the dryer.

They came out perfect!!! First time they smelled COMPLETELY CLEAN!!! Last night my sweet husband bought me all my "soaps and paper products" for the month since he had just got paid. So I was prepared to change soap brands when we went there. I bought one small box of powders "SUN" brand soap which was stated on that internet site as one of the least buildup-able, residue-leaving soaps. However since I have a font loader I was also told that I can't ever buy those kinds of cheap soaps again. I'm going to try it. I'll keep you posted, let ya know here in the next few days how clean my diapers smell and if she continues to get a rash or if it clears up completely... we'll see.

Kefir

I'll get back to this post. I just wanted to save this picture till tomorrow for my post on comparing store bought milk to fresh raw organic grass fed yellow sweet yummy good milk!!! :)

Sloppy Joes

We made sloppy Joes last night. I have to admit, we are a Manwich family. I have tried making this a few different way and nothing tastes as good as Manwich. I just wanted to share the few ideas that I have to really make this a nicer dinner.


1. I wash and slice potatoes into strips, toss in olive oil, seasoning salt and salt. Broil till brown.
aprx 10mins, stir, 10 more mins.
2. I brown the g.beef and add the can of manwich, plus a little extra ketchup if it seems a little "thick". To this I add some canned/frozen veggies: corn or peas are great.
3. While potatoes are baking, I lay out the buns on a cooking sheet. Pile on the sloppy joe mixture onto the bottom bun.
4. Add lots of yummy shredded cheese to both sides of the bun, top half and on sloppy joe mixture.
5. Put cooked potatoes on bottom rack.
6. Broil the bun tray till cheese is melted ~ apx 3 min, watch closely!

Serve hot! This is a yummy treat for us.... enjoy!

30-Day Husband Encouragement Challenge #22

Day Twenty-two:
"Let your speech always be with grace..." Col. 4:6a

Focus today on how you represent your husband in your home, your church, and your community. In this challenge to encourage, ask: "If all my family and friends knew about my husband came from a filter of what I've said about him, what would they think of my husband?" Do you need to change the filter?

Do you talk positively about your husband to others... or do you complain and criticize? Your speech should reflect 1 Cor. 13 love. Your words should be kind, and should never "rejoice in iniquity" (v. 6). Refrain from listing your husband's faults to others. Satan likes to trick us in this area - be wary of sharing barbed "prayer requests."

Remember, "Love will cover a multitude of sins" (1 Pet. 4:8b). Present your husband before others today in a strong, positive manner. Slip in a "good word" for your spouse. Resist the urge to correct or belittle him in front of others. Some of what you say may come back to him - and you want your words to be sweet, building him up and never tearing him down.

Don't forget: you are always criticizing - or encouraging - before an audience. God hears your conversations when you are alone with your husband in your own home. May your speech be always seasoned with grace.

While you are considering how your speech can reflect the grace of the Lord in your husband's life, don't forget that your words can also encourage others. When you share what God is doing in your life through this "30-Day Encouragement Challenge", others will be blessed. Perhaps other wives will be moved to take up this challenge.

30-Day Husband Encouragement Challenge #21

Day Twenty-one:
"But seek first the kingdom of God and His righteousness, and all these things shall be added to you." Matt. 6:33

If we are living in light of eternity, everything we think, do or say is seen from an eternal perspective. We will someday give an account for our failure to speak words of love and encouragement. Determine today that your words will be sweet and helpful. Does your husband have an eternal perspective that allows him to reject materialism and temporal values? Express your gratefulness for his value system, and praise him for putting eternal things before riches and other things of this world. If this is a problem area for him, consider how you might alter your own value system and live for eternity in front of him, encouraging him to do the same. Only two things will go into eternity...the Word of God and people. Be sure that you are focusing on the right things.

30-Day Husband Encouragement Challenge #20

Day Twenty:
"And be kind one to another, tenderhearted, forgiving one another, just as God in Christ
also forgave you." Eph. 4:32

It's time for some heart examination. As you continue in this 30-day challenge, have you found any roots of bitterness that are contaminating your relationship with your husband? Do you understand that as long as you are unwilling to forgive your husband - by God's grace and in His power - you will not be able to encourage him? Your own resentment will keep getting in the way. Now is the time to deal with any unforgiving attitudes. Forgive him, even as God has forgiven you.

Is your husband a forgiving man? Does he keep short accounts of your problems? Express your thankfulness for such a man.

Does your husband - rightly or wrongly - harbor grudges against you? Again, are there things you need to change, or do you need to ask for his forgiveness for an offense? Help your husband be more forgiving by quickly forgiving him for his mistakes.

30-Day Husband Encouragement Challenge #19

Day Nineteen:
Read this description of a wife's description of her beloved - Song of Solomon 5:10-16 Criticism leaves scars; but encouragement can bring healing. Remember that today as you focus on your "30-Day Encouragement Challenge."

Almost nothing is as devastating to a man as the belief that his wife finds him repulsive. Sadly, many women unwisely criticize their husbands' bodies. Have you ever considered how wonderfully God designed men and women? No matter how a man looks - by the standards of the world - a loving God designed them all, and they are all "beautiful" in His sight. Encourage your husband today by praising his uniqueness.

As you look over your husband's body, from the tip of his toes to his bald or bushy head, thank God that your husband is "wonderfully made," then admire your husband verbally. (Strong arms? Hairy chest? Firm hands? Big feet? Rugged chin? Wide shoulders? Compassionate eyes? Broad smile?)

30-Day Husband Encouragement Challenge #18

Day Eighteen:
"You will show me the path of life. In your presence is fullness of joy...Happy are the people whose God is the LORD!" Ps. 16:11a; 144:15b
"A merry heart does good like medicine..." Prov. 17:22a

It's hard to criticize others when we are enjoying their company. Instead of speaking negatively to your husband today, enjoy him! Encourage him! As you experience fullness of joy with God, share some of that joy with your husband. Does your husband have a playful side? A great sense of humor? Is there a "little boy" that wants to escape from time to time, reflecting the joy in his heart?

This is a wonderful part of who he is, and a great strength. Let him know that you appreciate his joyfulness and his playful spirit. Find opportunities to join him in positive play times.

If your husband can sometimes be overly serious, coax him out occasionally for some play times. It will help him relieve stress and relax.

30-Day Husband Encouragement Challenge #17

Day Seventeen:
"The fear of the LORD is the beginning of wisdom, and the knowledge of the Holy One is understanding." Prov. 9:10

Are you a wise woman? Do you open your mouth with wisdom, as Proverbs 31:26 suggests? As you continue in your 30-day challenge, remember that a wise woman encourages her husband.

Is your husband a "wise man?" Does he have a godly perspective that comes from knowing God and walking with Him in obedience? Does he have a sense of purpose for his life and vision for your home? Tell him how much this means to you. If you are not sure about your husband's vision for your home, ask him, "Honey, what do you want to accomplish with our marriage and home in the years to come?" and "How can I help you accomplish that?" If he does not have a vision, your questions may inspire him to develop one.

If your husband is not walking with God - or perhaps, does not know the Lord - you have the opportunity and responsibility to practice your faith and create a thirst for God. Thank God for giving your husband a place in his heart that only He can fill, and keep praying that he will turn to the Lord to fill that vacuum!

30-Day Husband Encouragement Challenge #16

Day Sixteen:
"And the LORD God said, 'It is not good that man should be alone; I will make him a helper comparable to him." Genesis 2:18

God says that it is not good for man to be alone. But the way some women criticize their mates, the husbands may long for solitude. Be careful today not to criticize your mate, but look for ways to encourage him personally and publicly.

Speaking of communication, does your husband communicate with you? God has made you a companion and helper for your husband, and part of being "one flesh" with him is the privilege of sharing and discussing personal needs and concerns. Thank God for that wonderful gift. Thank your husband for communicating with you.

If your spouse does not communicate as you wish, look for ways that he communicates that are normal for him - smiling at you, nodding his head, even a pleasant "grunt!" - and then thank him for letting you know that he cares. Perhaps he needs to be lovingly taught how to communicate. Be patient with him...and listen when he does speak.

30-Day Husband Encouragement Challenge #15

Day Fifteen:
"But grow in the grace and knowledge of our Lord and Savior Jesus Christ..." 2 Pet.
3:18a

Sometimes we live so close to our spouse that we fail to see him as others do; we only see our husband's faults. But take a step back. Perhaps he is growing spiritually in ways you have failed to appreciate. How can you encourage his growth in a fresh, new way? Remember - your husband is accountable to God for his spiritual development. You are accountable to God to encourage and not hinder that growth.

Can you identify an area of spiritual strength in your husband? Does he pray or read his Bible regularly? Does he like to read about or discuss spiritual matters? Does he go to church with you? Is he a spiritual leader? What do others say about him? If you can identify a specific area, praise him for that.

If not, pray earnestly that God will work in his heart, and watch for signs of spiritual growth in the future.

Can we get TOO comfortable?

I remember a few years ago my grandmother was selling half of her farm and it included the house, to build on and move to the other half of their property. I was too young to understand why someone would do that. I didn't know finances could make life complicated and they needed the money. But when I asked her why? I remember specifically what she said, "because we never want to get too comfortable ". I remember that just sticking out in my mind as so odd, or not making any sense. My goal in life was just the opposite, to get as comfortable as I could. Have lots of fun, get lots of possessions, and experience lots of fun things. It was all about me that mattered the most.Not I reflect back at that, remembering what she said, and I believe I can understand slightly what she ment. That even something that huge in life as moving at that age shouldn't move your focus as to what matters most in life, "God". That should just be viewed as a small inconvenience in the path of life and we need to just move around it and keep going. There is no use of making a big deal about it.

The other, bigger thought I have is that if we have too many possessions, too many "pleasantries", too many fun experiences, we become like the "rich man" in the bible. And what man, having all the riches of his hearts desire, being in need of nothing, is going to want to walk the hard path of life and follow Jesus? what rich man, when the world is in need is going to want to part with any of his riches and bless someone who needs them more? What rich man is going to drop EVERYTHING that he loves so much and want to go home to be with Jesus in the end? You don't just magically stop loving all your possessions when you get old and your life is almost over. You don't just suddenly stop loving everything you have loved your entire life.

We need to always remember to keep God in our focus. Remember that we have needs in life and if they are met then we should be thankful and not take much more than that from life. I challenge you to stop and look at your life today. What do you have in life that is more than you need? You should try to find someone else who could use a blessing and pass on these things so they don't hinder you from loving God or others. So they don't get in the way of what really matters in life.

"Lord, please keep my eyes clear and focused on what is necessary in life. Help me to be able to tell the difference between real needs and pleasantries. Help me to not cling to too much, cluttering up my heart and focus. Help me to teach this lesson to my dear sweet children and not forget it. Help me to never get too comfortable in my daily living. I would rather life be hard and a struggle and be dirt poor; than to be rich and have everything to my heart's content"

Amen!!

Mason Jar "money banks"

We really enjoyed making these. I decided the children were old enough to be responsible for their own money and it was about time to teach them some lessons.

Directions:
1. We started with a mason jar fixed with the lid and ring, per child.
2. Took a kitchen knife and tapped a hole/ slit in the top of each one just big enough for a quarter to fit through.
3. I got a recipe for "wheat paste". Made it and let it cool.
4. Took some strips of any paper and ripped them into smaller strips or pieces.
5. Let the children (with my help) dip the entire strip of paper, both sides, into the "home made glue" and I wiped off the excess with my fingers. Handed them the strips. They laid them all over the surface of the jars, including the bottom, but not covering the money hole.
6. Let them thuroghly dry for a few days, even had to place them in a slightly warm oven ( same temp as rising bread, not very hot at all) to speed up the drying, so they wouldn't mold on me in this cold air.
7. Let them have at painting what ever their little heart desired their bank to look like.

Wheat Paste: 2 c hot water, 1/2 c flour, 1 Tbsp sugar, 1 Tbsp salt (add just a little bit of water to the flour in a pot, till it looks like paste, slowly add remaining water and other two ingr. Heat to a boil. Boil for 1 min. Remove and cool.

TONS OF FUN!!!! We really enjoy this project. Over the next few days I threw in lots of lessons and discussions:
1. What do you think God thinks is wasteful/ necessary.
2. The difference between how different countries waste (Africa vs US vs Mexico etc) on the topic of food & money
3. What it means to be poor vs rich in Gods eyes.
4. Why homeless people sometimes choose to be homeless. Why some people are forced into being homeless. What we can do to help them. What we shouldn't do to help them.
5. What they can do with their money. What is wasteful. What is wise. What is necessary. What God would want them to do with their money.
6. We really went in to detail about wasting food by eating too much vs not eating enough. Throwing it in the garbage vs feeding the leftover to the chickens vs saving it for later. I even got on you tube and showed them a few video clips of Africa children who were in need, while we were being wasteful and they could be using it.

Discussion:
It has been very enriching to discuss thing like this with my children. I decided early on in my mothering I was going to teach them as much as I could about life. What was real. What they could handle learning about we sought out to learn about. I don't feel like I have shown them too much, nor too little. My children are NOT naive or ignorant about much in life... and I'm very please with my parenting in this area....

Raisin Molasses Drop Cookies

We love trying new recipes: this was directly off the raisin box, and we just altered it a ton. Here is what we did:

3/4 c olive oil
1/2 c molasses
1 c honey
1/2 c buttermilk
2 eggs
3 1/2 c flour
1/2 c flax seed meal
1 tsp salt
1 tsp soda
2 tsp cinnamon
1 tsp nutmeg
2 c raisins/ craisins

Cream wet ingredients. Add dry and mix. If it seems a little too wet, then add a little flour/ or too dry then add a little buttermilk. Drop by spoonfuls onto baking sheet. Bake 375* for 10-12 mins.

We loved them!!! Definitely healthy!!

30-Day Husband Encouragement Challenge #14

Day Fourteen:
"The righteous man walks in his integrity..." Prov. 20:7a

Every week there are news reports about men who gave in to temptations and compromised what they said they believed. We hear countless reports about dishonest business dealings, hidden infidelity, and hypocritical leaders. It's so easy to focus on these things and ignore those who are being honest, faithful and genuine. As you continue in the "30-Day Encouragement Challenge," determine to look for ways that your husband stands against the culture.

Is your spouse a man of integrity? Is he fair in his dealings with people? Does he understand the meaning of justice? Is he honest in business? Unhypocritical in his faith? Consider all the ways a man can live in integrity, and praise your husband for one of them. As you have the opportunity - as it is appropriate - share examples of your husband's honesty and integrity with others.
***

Isn't it amazing what the power of encouragement can do in others' lives? So many blessings come to those we love, and our own hearts are encouraged, too. We would love to have you share your encouragement journey with us. What has God been doing in your heart as you have set out to encourage your husband? In your husband's heart? Have others noticed the change? Just click here to tell us:

http://www.reviveourhearts.com/interact/contactus.htm

30-Day Husband Encouragement Challenge #13

Day Thirteen:
"I am my beloved's, and his desire is toward me." Song of Solomon 7:10

The sexual relationship. It's one of those elements - along with money and children - that can derail a marriage through negative comments. Negativity destroys intimacy, but encouragement builds and strengthens the marriage bond. Let's get practical here. Is your husband a "good lover?" Have you told him so? Be specific. Let him know when he pleases you. Most husbands genuinely want to please their wives, especially in this important area of marriage.

In moments of intimacy, do you find your mind wandering? This can change as you focus on something wonderful about your husband. Realize that your husband wants intimacy with you...his desire is toward you.

Does this area of your marriage need some work? Remember that this is a sensitive area for men. Be sure to encourage his lovemaking and masculinity in positive ways.

30-Day Husband Encouragement Challenge #12

Day Twelve:
"With all lowliness and gentleness, with longsuffering, bearing with one another in love."
Eph. 4:2

Part of the difficulty you may face as you continue in this 30-day challenge to encourage your husband is that you really are struggling to find positive things to praise. Perhaps the problem is not with your husband. Have you checked your own heart? Sometimes we get disillusioned because of our own unreasonable or unrealistic expectations (Prov. 13:12). It may not be that our mates are doing something wrong; it's simply that we expect too much in some areas.

Our expectations must be met in God alone, and then we will have the right perspective to ask God for the healing and grace we need to respond to others. How sad that we give more grace to others than to those in our own homes. Today, try to look at your husband through eyes of grace. Verbally thank your husband for what he is already doing.

Victoria Signing "all done"

30-Day Husband Encouragement Challenge #11

Day Eleven:
"Wives, submit to your own husbands, as to the Lord." Eph. 5:22

Women who are constantly negative toward their husbands - especially by speaking evil of them to others - show great disrespect. Determine not to do that today (or ever!). This challenge to encourage is closely connected to submission.

Men respond to women who respect them. What do you respect about your husband? Part of that respect includes submission to his authority. Let your husband know how respecting him makes it easier to submit to his leadership. Show your respect in public by listening to him and smiling at him when he speaks. Place your hand in his as you walk together.

If you feel there is nothing to respect, search harder ...nearly every man has some core characteristic that can be nurtured and respected. In any case, you must still cultivate a submissive spirit to his position of leadership..."as to the Lord."

30-Day Husband Encouragement Challenge #10

Day Ten:
"Behold you are handsome, my beloved! Yes, pleasant!..." Song of Solomon 1:16a

We all crave appreciation. We want to know that we are valued and loved. Early love letters probably reflected our admiration, but if we're not careful, our spouse will forget why we were drawn to him. If you still have any of your old love letters, re-read them for clues to deepen your current level of appreciation for your spouse. When we spend time criticizing our husbands, we lose time that could be spent admiring them. As you consider various ways to encourage your husband, ask, "How can I admire him?"

Does your husband know that you think he is attractive? What was one of the characteristics in your husband that first drew you to him? Was it a physical characteristic, or something else?

Was it his gentle, compassionate eyes? Kindness or concern for others? An easy-going confidence? A steadiness that comes from trusting in the Lord? Strength of character in a culture that lacks integrity? Do you see at least a glimpse of that characteristic in him today? Whatever it is, tell him!

30-Day Husband Encouragement Challenge #9

Day Nine:
"...be swift to hear, slow to speak..." James 1:19b

We are often so busy speaking that we don't take time to listen. We are so quick to offer a comment - negative or positive - that we don't really "hear" our husband's heart. Remember: we have two ears and only one mouth. We need to listen more! As you continue in your 30-day challenge, not speaking negatively and focusing on positive encouragement, hear the Lord's admonition today: "Be swift to hear." If listening is a real problem for you, play a game with yourself. See if you can listen to your husband for one whole day, only speaking when asked a question. If your husband notices the difference, explain that you are learning to listen more-not only to God, but also to him.

One easy way to express admiration for your husband is to ask a question about something he enjoys, and then listen to his response. If it's an area of personal familiarity, keep asking questions until you learn something you didn't know, then tell him, "Wow, I didn't know that!"

30-Day Husband Encouragement Challenge #8

Day Eight:

How are you doing with the "30-Day Encouragement Challenge"? In case you've forgotten, here's the challenge: * You can't say anything negative about your husband ...to your husband...or to anyone else, about your husband. * Say something that you admire or appreciate about your husband...to your husband...and to someone else, about your husband! "...but who can find a faithful man?" Prov. 20:6b


Faithfulness is a wonderful but rare quality today, especially in regard to marriage. Do you understand how important this quality is? Your challenge is to continue to root out all negative speaking, and plant seeds of encouragement instead. You may be amazed at what will grow. Contemporary culture often entices men to be unfaithful to their wedding vows and spiritual commitments. Appreciate your husband's faithfulness - how he is loyal to you. Let him know that you are glad he has "stick-to-it-iveness" in your marriage. Appreciate his faithfulness to God. (If you have an unfaithful husband, this is a difficult area for you.

Pray, speak the truth in love, remain faithful yourself, and discover ways to encourage faithfulness in your mate. The Bible says that husbands may "...be won by the conduct of their wives" [1 Pet. 3:1]. You may also want to seek counsel from a mature, godly individual or couple.)

30-Day Husband Encouragement Challenge #7

Day Seven:
This is David buying kettle corn for the children at the state fair. He is so good to the children and I.


"Do not overwork to be rich; because of your own understanding, cease!...for riches certainly make themselves wings..." Prov. 23:4-5

"That I may cause those who love me to inherit wealth, that I may fill their treasuries." Proverbs 8:21

Money is the root of much marital discord. Ask yourself, "Am I being negative toward my husband in the area of finances?" Determine not to speak evil of your husband in this area. Discover ways to encourage and help him instead.

Does your husband handle finances wisely? Does he make good financial investments, based on biblical principles? Does he have a budget? Does he make wise decisions about purchases - checking many sources before he buys? Is he a good steward of his money before the Lord? Let him know how much you appreciate his strengths in financial matters.

If he is weak in this area, encourage any good decisions that he does make. Perhaps you can help him, if he's open to the idea, by organizing financial files or providing other practical assistance. Or, if he wants you to handle the finances, ask for his input before you make decisions that will affect him.

30-Day Husband Encouragement Challenge #6

Day Six:


"...whatever ye do, do all to the glory of God." 1 Cor. 10:31b Do you recognize and appreciate your husband's creativity? Or do you criticize and demean his efforts? Instead of negativity, determine to be positive. Perhaps you can help your husband see that his efforts are an opportunity to glorify God.

Is your husband the "creative" type? Does he have any artistic gifts? What is that special "knack" he has? Affirm him for his handiwork - a hobby, music, gardening, tinkering with cars, working with wood, etc. Remember: Even if he doesn't measure up to your standards, praise his efforts. If your budget allows, buy him a book or magazine that will continue to encourage his special skill or talent.

If you have a hard time finding his "creative side," understand that men's creativity sometimes is related to their work. Find something he does to make his job run more smoothly or something he does that adds value to his work...and let him know that you have noticed.

Make his day...Praise his accomplishments in public, while he is listening.

30-Day Husband Encouragement Challenge #5

Day Five:

"Let no corrupt communication proceed out of your mouth, but what is good for necessary edification, that it may impart grace to the hearers." Eph. 4:29 Another way to describe the positive side of this "30-Day Encouragement Challenge" is by using the word "edify," which means, "to build up." Negative comments only discourage and tear down. Positive comments encourage and build.

Do you edify your husband before others, adding to his value in their eyes? This is especially important to other family members.

Do you praise your husband to his relatives, and yours? Does your husband's mother know how much you love him? How about your dad? Perhaps you can drop a word of praise into a conversation or letter. Be creative in letting your relatives know that you respect your husband, love him, and support him - in spite of whatever flaws and weaknesses he may have.

30-Day Husband Encouragement Challenge #4

Day Four:

"...let him labor, working with his hands what is good..." Eph. 4:28 We are all accountable for the things we say, both negative and positive words. Have you embraced the challenge to speak only positive things to your husband and to others about him? Here's a suggestion that touches the core of your husband's world.

Some women take their husband's career for granted, and they show it in many ways. Do you "dump" on your husband at the end of the workday, or do you strengthen and encourage him with your words? A wise wife will make her husband feel that she values and appreciates his work. Let him know that you are glad he is a hard worker. Take opportunities to praise his diligence and resourcefulness to others.

If your husband is out of work, unable to work, or refuses to work, you'll need to be more creative. Praise him for a character quality that you see in him that would be a vital part of a successful career - such as persistence, decisiveness, strength, an analytical mind, organizational skills, good with people, good listener, determination, etc.

30-Day Husband Encouragement Challenge #3

Day Three:

"...love suffers long, and is kind..." 1 Cor. 13:4
"And my God shall supply all your need according to His riches in glory by Christ Jesus." Phil. 4:19

Love indeed suffers long and is kind. As you consider your Encouragement Challenge, determine today that you will not say anything negative to or about your husband. Speak kindly to him with words of genuine encouragement.

If your husband is considerate of your needs, let him know that you have noticed. Thank him for his kindness and consideration. Thank the Lord that your husband knows how to be both tough and tender.

Sometimes it's difficult for a man to be gentle, kind or tender - especially if he hasn't had role models in these areas. If he's not a considerate person, appeal to him for help without complaining. Let him know that it's hard for you to handle some things alone. Then, when he moves in to help, don't insist that he do it your way. Be glad that he is responding, and express your gratitude.

Ultimately, you can't expect your husband to make you feel more secure, loved, etc. Remember that only God can meet the deepest needs of your heart.

30-Day Husband Encouragement Challenge #2

Day Two:

"...through love serve one another." Gal. 5:13b

How did you do yesterday with your first day of blessing and encouraging your husband? Was it easy? Was it hard to hold your tongue when you wanted to say something negative? We hope you're off to a good start. (If you blew it, don't give up - start again today!) There are so many practical things you can praise, if you look for them.

(This is the most recent picture I can find of us together, we dont have many of the both of us, but I like this one... He is Telling a story or Joke... He always has something fun to listen to)

Today, find some way that your husband is serving you or your family. Does he help around the house? Take care of the car? Fix things that are broken? If your budget allows, give him a new, small tool with a big bow attached. But make sure he doesn't think it's part of a "Honey Do" list!


Maybe your husband's not a handyman, but does he run errands for you? Let you go first? Take care of you when you are sick? Help you make decisions? Praise him for his willingness to serve others. Let him know that you see his unique service as a great strength.

Today we played Hockey...Hockey is in full season!!!

Today we played Hockey...

I wish I had gotten these way earlier in life!!! This is now our PE for school!!!! Fun Fun!!!

Here are the boys enjoying Isaiah's new hockey set: two nets, 6 sticks, lots of balls. They didn't have a clue how to play so David had to explain a few basic rules. Hit the puck into the OPPOSITE team's goal! LOL not your own. Hockey is rough. Its for big boys. So if you dont want to play feel free to sit with mom and tori, but we are having fun here, no crying allowed :)

David enjoying a moment with Victoria while I get a chance to play. She was so amused by the whole shouting and cheering thing. She is not used to this much noise and commotion!
Here I got a chance to play. Nice hockey field huh? Its the perfect size, and walls all around. But we can only play when David takes this car to work, otherwise it will have to be on the back patio, without walls. And let me tell ya we need these walls, LOL.Boys taking a "jaritos break" we had lots of Mexican sodas left over from the birthday party. They like them a lot. David takes much nicer pictures than me ;)