Friday, September 30, 2011

Packing for Relevant11? Here is a checklist...


Below is a list of most of the things you will need to pack for Relevant. As well, there are a few things that won't apply to everyone. Print it off check it twice before leaving.

Am I missing anything? If so please leave a comment and let me know.
  • Relevant ticket
  • Bible
  • Notebook
  • Pen
  • A Family Photo
  • Passport
  • Extra tickets such as Sally Clarkson's breakfast, etc.
  • US spending money (for us out-of-towners)
  • ID
  • Business Cards
  • Favorite book
  • Cell phone
  • Cell phone charger
  • Laptop
  • Laptop Charger
  • Medication/Vitamins
  • Gravol
  • Tampons
  • Shaver
  • Deodorant
  • Tooth brush
  • Tooth paste
  • Shampoo
  • Conditioner
  • Additional Hair Products
  • Razor
  • Hair dryer
  • Straightening Iron
  • Makeup
  • Eye makeup remover
  • Pajamas
  • 2 Brassieres, my Dear!
  • 4 Panties
  • Warm Hooded Sweatshirt
  • Dress shoes
  • Comfy Shoes
  • Enough Clothes for 6 Months
  • An Awesome Attitude!

You are loved by an almighty God,

Darlene

For comments or questions, contact me at:
darlene[at]darleneschacht.net

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Thursday, September 29, 2011

Printable Calendar for October

Here is a direct link to October's calendar, ladies! Click here

And as always, the link to the collection of printables is in the links bar above.

You are loved by an almighty God,

Darlene

For comments or questions, contact me at:
darlene[at]darleneschacht.net

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Wednesday, September 28, 2011

It's a New Day - Candace Cameron Bure


Back in April I posted a blog about a busy and blessed week I was having. Candace Cameron Bure and her husband Val were in Winnipeg and I had the privilege of sitting in on the taping of "It's a New Day," a Christian program hosted by Williard Thiessen and his family.

As you can imagine it was an exciting day, and I've been waiting for the show to air ever since.

The wait is over because the show airs today!

If you don't get "It's a New Day" in your area, you can still catch the show because they have posted it online as well.

I'm very excited to present it to you. Hope you enjoy! (Click the image above to watch the show.)

You are loved by an almighty God,

Darlene

For comments or questions, contact me at:
darlene[at]darleneschacht.net

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Divorce May Lead to Baldness in Women

Photo used under Creative Commons from romytetue 

By Nigel Lawson 

Two studies released yesterday reveal stress from divorce may lead to baldness in women.  The studies, conducted at Case Western Reserve University, examined 66 male and 84 female pairs of identical twins with similar hairlines.  Dr. Bahman Guyuron, head of the study, found that high stress situations such as divorce, death of a spouse, caring for many children, and high blood pressure may be the link to hair loss in women.  

Find out more about the results of this study on men and women in "The Stress of Divorce, Writ on Women's Heads," at Time.Com, and post your comments.

Monday, September 26, 2011

The Art of Kindness and a Titus 2sday Link-up!


Welcoming guest blogger, Joii from www.afullday.com

I’d like to thank Darlene for allowing me to post today. She is showing me great kindness and it humbles my heart.

I grew up as a PK (preacher’s kid). I think it’s safe to say that I have heard thousands of sermons preached by my father. What a blessing! It is so funny how I can recall so many of my dad’s sermon titles, even to this day. One of them was called, “The Art of Kindness.” I thought that would be a perfect title for today’s post.

I love sitting at the feet of Jesus and learning about submission and service to my husband. We have an awesome marriage, but these lessons are making it even sweeter. One of the ways to walk in submission and service is to be kind.

And be ye kind one to another, tenderhearted, forgiving one another, even as God for Christ's sake hath forgiven you.” ~ Ephesians 4:32, KJV

Let’s jump into this pool of kindness. Let’s lay back, close our eyes and float in it...

Okay…ready? Let’s go!

When I think of the "art” of something, I think about the mastery of it. I think about the study of it. This isn’t a passive thing. The art of kindness should be intentional and well thought out. Don’t hold it out for special occasions. Think about showing kindness every day!

I ask, “What does the art of kindness look like?” One of the ways to operate in the art of kindness is to be deliberate about it:
  • Find out from the Lord what makes your mate feel loved, blessed and appreciated.

  • Study and learn what makes them smile. Really take the time to investigate.

  • Don’t fall into the trick of doing for them, what would bless you.

  • Know their “love language.” For example, my Sweetness showing me kindness might be him sending me a single rose with a note. That would be nice for him in return, but getting him a single cupcake from his favorite bakery and a note would be better. (smile)
Developing the art of kindness in our marriages can help keep Jesus in and sin out. As we honor and submit by mastering the art of kindness, the Lord will anoint us to continue this cycle that I’ve heard called the “Blessing Circle.” As you bless your husband, he will bless you and you both will bless the Lord.

Our God has a plan for healthy, stable, loving and sweet marriages. Follow His instructions, and you cannot go wrong. So I say, as Paul did in Ephesians, “And be ye kind one to another…”

Meet Joii:
Joii Cooper is a follower of Christ, who is happily married and a full life lover. She has recently delved into the blogosphere with her blog, "A Full Day," which celebrates living life to the fullest. Joii loves speaking to women about Jesus and how to live abundant lives in Him.

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Today and every Tuesday, I want to invite bloggers to link-up any blog posts that will encourage women to joyfully live out their roles as wives and keepers of their homes I'm looking for posts on marriage, parenting, housekeeping, or recipes.

1. Enter the direct link from your post into the linky tool below!

2. Please link back here with the {TITUS 2}SDAYS code (below) so that other bloggers can join in too!

3. Enjoy each other's fellowship, and have fun!



Sunday, September 25, 2011

When the Man you Love is Unkind


I often write about biblical submission, and by the tone of your feedback, I can’t help but notice that most of your husbands are attentive, sensitive and kind men like mine. Praise God!

But at the same time I understand what a sacrifice and struggle it is for women who are living with men that ignore them, disrespect them, and show little care for them. I’ve experienced it first hand and I’ve seen it taking place in other marriages.

I remember going for dinner at a friend’s house one evening. We were sitting around the table having tea while she finished preparing the meal. I suppose that some cheese or a little grease dripped onto an element—whatever happened was enough to set off both the smoke alarm and her husband’s temper.

Standing on a chair trying to remove the batteries he held back nothing to convey his frustration. “What kind of a cook are you?!” was one of a few insults he threw her way that evening.

And while he grumbled and complained, I couldn’t help but feel the heat that rose in her cheeks and sense the pounding of her tender heart.

Before I go any further I want to point out that the purpose of this post is to address the issue of an unkind husband--not one that is habitually abusive. I’ve been in a situation where my face was held down to the kitchen floor while I was ordered to lick it clean. With that in mind, I want to be sensitive to the difference between someone being abused and husbands that are unkind and uncaring. It is not my intention to minimize the serious issue of abuse, and as I’ve pointed out in a previous post, “submission isn’t permission” to abuse.

I’m talking about grumpy, arrogant, selfish and distant husbands. I’m also talking about those husbands who are wonderful for the most part, but have their moments that drive us insane.

What hope do we have? And how does scripture address this issue?

Wisdom can be gleaned from Peter who provides instruction for Christians in their relationships with both unsaved and difficult people.

Live such good lives among the pagans [non-Christians] that, though they accuse you of doing wrong, they may see your good deeds and glorify God on the day he visits us.
~ 1 Peter 2:12, NIV

Wives, in the same way be submissive to your husbands so that, if any of them do not believe the word, they may be won over without words by the behavior of their wives.
~ 1 Peter 3:1, NIV

Did you catch that? We’ve read the scriptures that tell us to submit to our husbands, but here Peter is instructing women to be submissive to unbelieving husbands in particular. It’s important to note this because being submissive to someone who is gentle and kind is easy, but being submissive to someone who frustrates you requires patience and sacrifice on your part.

Whether it’s in our home or our workplace, Peter addresses this very issue saying that it is commendable when we bear suffering for the sake of our faith. Why? Because true love is not only patient and kind, it doesn’t get angry when others do it wrong. It bears all things, always hopes and always perseveres (paraphrased from 1 Corinthians 13).

When we love the way God loves we walk by the Spirit in obedience to our faith. That obedience is a gift that we offer our Lord.

For it is commendable if someone bears up under the pain of unjust suffering because they are conscious of God.
~ 1 Peter 2:19, NIV

God's love took Him to the cross. Where does your love take you?

You are loved by an almighty God,

Darlene

For comments or questions, contact me at:
darlene[at]darleneschacht.net

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In participation with:


Secrets Your Wife May be Keeping!

Photo used under Creative Commons from carl clasio


by Nigel Lawson

If you think all is going well in your marriage, beware!  A new book by Iris Krasnow reveals some interesting insights into what secrets wives may be keeping from their spouse.  The book, The Secret Lives of Wives: Women Share What It Really Takes To Stay Married, scheduled for release in October, is based on interviews of 200 women reflecting on the institution of marriage (pun definitely intended)! 


Her article, The Fine Line Between Marriage and Divorce, in the Huffington Post, includes some pretty racy marital secrets involving gardeners, farm animals, and swingers. Read the article for yourself, and post your comments below.

Thursday, September 22, 2011

I Am Second - Jason Castro


Jason Castro was always my favorite American Idol. So when I came accross these "I Am Second" videos, I was so blessed to see him among them.

You are loved by an almighty God,

Darlene

For comments or questions, contact me at:
darlene[at]darleneschacht.net

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Hawaiian Meatballs

Image from Google Images

Meatball Mixture

2 lbs. ground beef
3 eggs
2 cups of Rice Krispies, crushed crackers, or bread crumbs (I used Rice Krispies)
1 1/2 tsp. ginger
salt and pepper

To be Added to Browned Meatballs:

13.5 oz can of unsweetened pineapple chunks (put juice aside)
1 large green pepper
1 Red pepper for color (optional and pretty)

The Tangy Sauce

1 cup of brown sugar
2 Tbls. cornstarch
2/3 cup of vinegar
2 Tbls. Soy sauce
Juice from the can of pineapples above


Making the Meatballs:

Mix the meatball ingredients together and blend well with your hands. Get in there and squish it all together. It's your chance to play!

Place on cookie sheets and broil on high heat for about five minutes to brown them. This gets your cookie sheets all dirty and makes a big mess, but all of the extra work is worth making an awesome meal for your family I say! (But let's be real, I rarely say that - LOL)

Once they are brown roll them off of the pans into a roaster. Add the pineapple chunks (set the juice aside) and also add the chopped green peppers chopped.

Turn the oven to 350 degrees.

Quickly wash up your pans because it's easiest to wash them right away.

Preparing the Sauce

Mix the brown sugar and cornstarch in a medium sized pot. Make sure that the two are mixed together well, then you can add your vinegar, soy sauce, and pineapple juice. Turn the element to high heat and mix it until it comes to a boil. It should thicken as soon as it boils.

Note: If you over cook cornstarch, it tends to thicken and then unthicken again. So remove from heat as soon as it thickens. It will be obviously thicker suddenly.

Pour the sauce over the meatballs. Toss the meatballs in the sauce and then place in the oven.

Bake at 350 degrees for about 45 minutes.

When you take them out of the oven always break a meatball open to see that it's cooked inside.

Serve with rice. Enjoy!!


You are loved by an almighty God,

Darlene

For comments or questions, contact me at:
darlene[at]darleneschacht.net

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Tuesday, September 20, 2011

Where to Stand in a Storm


When Michael and I had our deck built, we picked up a pergola to sit on top of it. If you don’t know what a pergola is, basically it is four pillars that hold up a row of beams, which act as a type of roof. It doesn’t keep out the rain or the sun, but it’s a great system for growing vines that will eventually hang over our heads. I love it.

It’s was standing all summer without a problem, so I figured that all was good—until one day that is. When I walked into the kitchen, I heard an unrecognizable sound booming from the back yard.

“The pergola!” I screamed to Michael--who I’m so thankful was sitting in the living room, rather than putting in a day at work. “The pergola!”

It was all I could think to say as I saw this enormous structure make it's way down to rest on our patio table.

Within seconds, Michael, our neighbor, and I were hoisting the pillars all back in place. It was windy, but we had seen far worse winds over the summer. I have no idea why the pergola decided to come down on this particular day, and then threaten to come down over and over again as I witnessed it sway in the wind.

Immediately Michael shot out the door en route to the lumberyard. He had put off fastening it to the deck since he didn’t have the required screws, but now we had no choice--it had to be fastened. My daughter Madison and I were left to hold the pillars, just to ensure it didn’t come down again.

It had been a very long time since I felt my heart beating as fast as it was that day. Every time a gust of wind shook the structure I feared it would come down once again. My legs were shaking as were my arms, but I stood there holding the pillar as best that I could. Then I did what I always do in situations like this—I called my dad. One of the kids brought the cordless phone to the pillar, and with shaky hands I dialed his number.*

It’s nice that my parents live close by, especially when toilets are overflowing, ovens catch on fire, or pergolas are swaying in the wind. Dad was there within ten minutes, sitting on a chair propped up against a pillar while I leaned on a table propped up against another. Dad is always calm in a storm. Always. There’s just something about that man that doesn’t sway him when tragedy hits, even in those moments when it hits real hard. I can always rely on him to calm my nerves and to guide Michael and I through difficult times. It’s a gift I suppose, that not only reminds me that I’m safe because he’s there, but also the fact that most of all that I’m safe in this world because I have a heavenly Father who I can find refuge in through every storm of my life.

God is our refuge and strength, a very present help in trouble. Therefore will not we fear, though the earth be removed, and though the mountains be carried into the midst of the sea; Though the waters thereof roar and be troubled, though the mountains shake with the swelling thereof. Selah. ~ Psalm 46:1-3

In time, those vines will grow, adding shade to our yard, and protection from the sun. I look forward to those days--abiding in the vine, as I fellowship in the cool of the day, with my Lord.

*This article was written about two years ago--before my dad got sick. It's interesting to look back at this article I wrote then and see how Dad prepared me to face each storm. Even this one--his struggle with cancer.

Read more articles about my dad here.

You are loved by an almighty God,

Darlene

For comments or questions, contact me at:
darlene[at]darleneschacht.net

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Monday, September 19, 2011

When He Doesn't Love You Back


I received a letter the other day from a reader who said that she put everything she could into loving her husband and working on their marriage, but it wasn’t enough. Despite all of her effort, he wanted to end their relationship.

Where does that leave us? What can we do?

Read my thoughts on this article at "The Better Mom" where you'll find me blogging monthly:



You are loved by an almighty God,

Darlene

For comments or questions, contact me at:
darlene[at]darleneschacht.net

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Saturday, September 17, 2011

My New Hobby


(posting the code for those who requested it)

One of my favorite pastimes (next to reading) is artwork--especially with Photoshop.

I've always been a doodler, so when I started seeing word-art everywhere I turned I decided to give it a try. Who knew there could be so much beauty in type!

This is my first little creation.

You are loved by an almighty God,

Darlene

For comments or questions, contact me at:
darlene[at]darleneschacht.net

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Pat Robertson Forgets " 'Til Death Do Us Part." It Must Be Early Signs Of Alzheimer's

Photo used under Creative Commons from Digital Shotgun


By Nigel Lawson

Well, Pat Robertson once again stuns the nation by announcing on his 700 Club that Alzheimer's disease is a valid reason for divorce.  This past Tuesday, a gentleman phoned in to relate his concern about a friend whose wife was in the later stages of Alzheimer's.  The caller stated his friend was, "bitter at God for allowing his wife to be in that condition, and now he's started seeing another woman." 


Robertson responded, "I hate Alzheimer's. It is one of the most awful things, because here's the loved one - this is the woman or man that you have loved for 20, 30, 40 years, and suddenly that person is gone."  He continued, "I know it sounds cruel..., but if he's going to do something, he should divorce her and start all over again."

If that wasn't shocking enough, what followed would knock anyone off their chair. When asked by his co-host if his words contradict the marriage vow "'Til death do us part," Roberson responded, "[Alzheimer's] is a kind of death." 

First of all, one wonders if the 700 Club was formed by people who scored 700 on their SAT. What was Pat Robertson thinking?  Not only did he embarrass theologians across the country, but he enraged families affected by this dreadful disease.  Dealing with Alzheimer's is challenging for any family.  Add a divorce announcement condoned by a religious leader to that situation, and you can kiss the sanctity of the family unit goodbye.

Divorce is not a decision made on a whim.  In our fast moving internet society, instant gratification is king.  Our immediate needs can be met within minutes and even seconds.  If  I wish to know what my friends are doing at this moment, I can follow them on Twitter or Facebook.  Want to watch a movie?  I can stream a full length film in a matter of seconds.  Craving pizza?  I can have that delivered to my front door in "thirty minutes or less" without leaving my couch.  Divorce should not be treated in the same manner.  It is too important a decision to be made in the blink of an eye and a click of a button.

The latest Census Bureau reports that divorce rates in the United States have slightly decrease, but divorce rates among baby boomers are triple that of their parents. This "Gray Divorce," is a new phenomenon which sees couples splitting after 20 or more years of marriage.  I definitely won't be surprised if there is an increase of Gray Divorce over the next few years due to Pat Robertson's irresponsibility. 















Friday, September 16, 2011

Links

Bloggers/Friends:


A Contributing Author at These Sites:



More to come soon...

Thursday, September 15, 2011

Bolognese - The Best Sauce Yet!


"Bolognese" - that's a word we never used growing up. The only name my family had for it was spaghetti sauce. In recent years I discovered that "bolognese" is the correct name for it, and that the dish originated from Bologna, Italy--thus the name. (A little useless fact I'm throwing out there.)

Anyone can make spaghetti sauce, in fact it's one of the first meals that I ever learned to cook. But after 23 years I realized that I wasn't making it as well as I could be and so I tweaked the recipe a few months back. A few small changes have made a big difference in the taste, and my family LOVES it!

Spaghetti Bolognese

1 pound of extra lean ground beef
2 chopped tomatoes
1 cup of fresh mushrooms - sliced (optional)
1 clove of garlic - minced
1 medium onion - chopped
2 Tb. basil
1 Tb. oregano
1 Tb. of powdered beef stock (this is my secret weapon!)
salt and pepper to taste
400 ml tomato sauce (average sized can)
150 ml tomato paste (tiny can)

And of course I always double the recipe!

Brown the grown beef. Add the chopped tomatoes, garlic, onion, basil, oregano, beef stalk, salt and pepper (also mushrooms if you like) - continue to brown for a bit. I brown it until the tomatoes look cooked.

Add the tomato sauce and the tomato paste. Note that I have only added a small can of tomato paste. This is because the flavor is very strong. Really the only reason I use it is to thicken the sauce.

Simmer on medium low for about 30 minutes.

Serve over cooked spaghetti noodles.

You are loved by an almighty God,

Darlene

For comments or questions, contact me at:
darlene[at]darleneschacht.net

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Looking for a great recipe to make this weekend? Check out, "Feasting in Fellowship Fridays" at Comfy in the Kitchen:

Wednesday, September 14, 2011

5 Questions to Ask When Making Decisions


It's September which means that all of the clubs, the cell groups, the Sunday School classes and the regular programming starts up at church. This is the season when "sign-up sheet at the back" is used at the end of every paragraph in every church in every city around the world. It's also a time that I enjoy because I get to choose what new things I'll be involved in.

Cell groups... Sunday school... Church camp... Women's Conferences... Teaching... Leading... Speaking... Cooking... Helping... Which activities do I choose, and which ones do I step back from?

To be honest, I'm the kind of person that wants to sign my name on every page. I'd love to be involved and sometimes I wish there were ten of me to go around.

Michael on the other hand wisely steps back and says, "Maybe we should think about this, Darlene," because he knows that there aren't ten of me. In fact with four kids, there's barely one of me some days.

Sometimes I get so caught up in the thrill of opportunity that I forget to take my ideas to God. Bad move. After all isn't He the one who knows my agenda better than anyone else?

Now listen, you who say, “Today or tomorrow we will go to this or that city, spend a year there, carry on business and make money.” Why, you do not even know what will happen tomorrow. What is your life? You are a mist that appears for a little while and then vanishes. Instead, you ought to say, “If it is the Lord’s will, we will live and do this or that.” ~James 4:13-15, NIV

Looking at that verse, I don’t believe that James is discouraging us from planning for the future. What he's encouraging us to do is to put our will in the hands of God, boast in Him alone, and follow His lead.

But how can we possibly know God’s will for our lives if we don’t take things to Him in prayer? If we don’t read the Word? We won't, unless something stands in our way.

I’m reminded of Balaam in Numbers chapter 22. God clearly instructed Balaam not to go to the Israelites, but after being enticed to do so he sets off on his journey to curse them. When his donkey saw the angel of the Lord standing in their path with a sword drawn in his hand, the donkey turned away and refused to go forward. After being punished by Balaam, the donkey turned another way, but the angel of the Lord stood in his path yet again. Penned in, the donkey threw herself against the wall, crushing Balaam’s foot.

Finally with no way left to turn, the donkey fell down, and the Bible tells us that Balaam’s anger was kindled so that he struck the animal with his staff. That’s when God miraculously opened the mouth of the donkey who said, “What have I done unto thee, that thou hast smitten me these three times?

Have you ever been in situations where you set out to do something and there’s a barricade at every turn? Sometimes this means that we need to press on and overcome those obstacles, but there are times when God has no other choice than to protect us from the choices we’ve made.

The question is how do we know if we’re following God’s will or following our own?

When faced with important decisions the first question we need to ask is, Will this be pleasing to God? In Balaam’s situation it was crystal clear that God had instructed him not to go. In the same way, when we are making decisions many of the answers might be clearly spelled out in scripture. By developing good Bible study habits we learn those principles and draw from them when we have decisions to make.

A prayer life is also important as it leads us to bring our concerns to the Lord and allows Him to speak to our hearts. There will be times when the answer comes to us in a miraculous way such as a word of encouragement from a prayer buddy, but often times God will speak to your conscience, and when He does you’ll have a sense of peace about the choice that you make.

You might say to yourself, "Well of course, teaching Sunday School is God's will--that's a no-brainer!" But the real question is this, Is it God's will for you?

Finally, if your desire is in line with the will of God, but you are still unsure if it’s the best thing to do, then dig a little deeper and ask yourself these five questions:
  1. If I take this on am I spreading myself too thin?

  2. Will this distract me from serving the Lord or will it encourage my walk?

  3. Will it take too much time away from my key priorities such as my husband and my children? Or is it a comfortable fit?

  4. What is the purpose of me doing this?

  5. Is this decision one that would glorify God?
Asking these questions might help give you clarification and a new sense of focus.

You are loved by an almighty God,

Darlene

For comments or questions, contact me at:
darlene[at]darleneschacht.net

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Tuesday, September 13, 2011

A Time Of Happiness, Yet Sad

Today I am feeling quite melancholy. I don't think that I have felt this down in a while, and it's not about infidelity this time around.... while I have been working hard at getting my life back, settling into a nice comfortable spot without my ex, learning that life can REALLY be great, I am facing the fact that our little girl is now a bonified adult....she is now 18. The child support stopped and her waiting by the window watching for her daddy to come visit is also gone. She is a beautiful self-sufficient young lady, confident and loving, fiesty and sweet. I have taught her how to do her banking, savings, washing her own laundry, cooking and how to put God first in her life. I have also shown her how to be able to live life happily, with or without a man to support her. I am a very proud mother, but time seems to have a way of speeding itself up quickly as she got older. Our beautiful daughter will be going off to boot camp in 6 more days.  Yes, she joined the Navy. She will study to be a hospital corpsman ( like a Dr or nurse) and I am happy for her. For all the times that I worried about my ex not showing up for visits, for all the times I worried about him making a bad impression on our family by tearing it apart, I sit here today, confident in the fact that she is a strong young woman, and will be able to find a young man who will treat her good in life, when it comes that time. I know this is an exciting time in her life, but I know my heart will ache when she walks out the door. I wished I knew how my ex was feeling about this, but we rarely see him anymore....is it sight out of mind ? Perhaps he's moved on for good, and that's a good thing. I am happy today that I no longer have to deal with his infidelity, but sad that our family had to break apart because of it. For those of you who are diligently trying to work out your marriage, know that it IS possible but it takes time, and lots of it.

Monday, September 12, 2011

6 Ways to Build Up Our Husbands - And a Titus 2sday Linkup!


Last night I noticed a little water on the kitchen floor by the sink, which is par for the course considering that most days Nathaniel spills far more than he drinks. But when I noticed a bulging box of Cascade under the sink this afternoon and another puddle of water beneath my feet I knew we had a leak somewhere that had to be fixed.

It wasn't too serious, but enough of a drip that I stood on towels to wash dishes and changed my socks once or twice.

The sound of Michael tinkering in the kitchen after dinner was music to my ears. I wondered if he might be too tired or too busy to get to it this evening, but since we both know that water can cause permanent damage if it's left to soak, he wanted to get it repaired right away.

Looking at the scriptures I'm reminded of yet another damaging drip--a contentious woman.

A continual dripping on a very rainy day
And a contentious woman are alike;
~ Proverbs 27:15

Contention appears in a number of ways including opposing, nagging, arguing, challenging, belittling, and competing. And why do we do it? Because somehow we think that by nagging him we're encouraging our husbands to be a better person.

It seems to makes sense at the time, but the truth is that many of our husbands--and many wives for that matter--have fragile egos that should be handled with care and respect.

In the same way that a leaky faucet can cause permanent damage, our words if left unchecked can damage our relationships and cause cause resentment to grow. I can't imagine what the state of my kitchen would be if we let that faucet leak for 10 years, but in some marriages that's what's happening. Sometimes the damage appears surmountable. Giving up--they walk away.

If this problem is going on in our marriage, we need to get in there and immediately start to make changes that work to build up our husbands rather than tearing them down. Certainly it takes the work of two people to form a strong marriage bond, but my advice to you is that we concentrate on our share of the work and leave them to do theirs.

Here are six ways we can start building up our husbands today:
  1. Listen to what he has to say so that you will recognize what's on his heart.

  2. Make an effort to be as cheerful as you were when you were engaged to be married.

  3. Ignore his faults and focus on his strong points by taking note of them.

  4. Compliment him for the way that he looks and the good things that he does like working hard for the family.

  5. See him for who he is, not who you want him to be.

  6. Be slow to anger. Relay your frustration with love, respect, and a cool head.
You are loved by an almighty God,


Darlene

For comments or questions, contact me at:
darlene[at]darleneschacht.net

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Sunday, September 11, 2011

Rhubarb Muffins Guaranteed to Bring Out the Martha In You!

(Image from Google Images)

A few years back I had the most amazing rhubarb patch in my back yard. It was well established, and there was no way I wanted that beautiful plant to go to waste. Every fall I would cut it down, chop it up, and freeze it in sandwich bags. Portioning the bags to 2 cups each made baking easy for me.

Now, before I go on, let me say--I am not an amazing baker by any stretch of the imagination. I can cook, but as far as baking goes--fail--UNTIL I got this "Rhubarb Muffin" recipe a few years back. Earlier today my friend Christy asked me to email it to her, so I decided to share it with all of you at the same time.

This recipe is so easy, yet so delicious, that it's guaranteed to bring out the Martha in you! Bake them for your husband and he'll be raving about you for a week--make that two!

Rhubarb Muffins
(makes 12)

1 1/2 cups of sugar
1/2 cup of butter
2 eggs
3 cups of flour
1 tsp. baking powder
2 cups of chopped rhubarb

Scoop into muffin tins (you'll notice that the mixture is very dry--that's normal) and press them in a little. No paper liners required.

Bake at 350 for 35 minutes.

Optional: Once in a while I'll throw a handful of raspberries in too, if I have them around.

Thank you for our food, Dear Lord. May the gifts from our stove, be used to glorify You, blessing the hearts of family and friends through the joyful work of our hands.

You are loved by an almighty God,

Darlene

For comments or questions, contact me at:
darlene[at]darleneschacht.net

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Saturday, September 10, 2011

The Winners of the Reshaping it All Giveaway Announced!

Thank you to everyone that participated in the Reshaping it All giveaway that took place this past week.

I have randomly chosen five winners through the tool at Random.org, and those winners are:

Bonnie
blchambers.acaec@yahoo dot com

Country Girl
countryroadsleadme dot gmail.com

Brandy
notsoaveragemama dot com

C.C. Almon
http://www.thealmons.com/ccblog/

Susan (Comment - Sept. 5 at 9:21)

Winners, please send me your mailing address and I will have a copy of the book sent out to you. And if you want me to autograph it, then also please note that in your email to me.

darlene[at]darleneschacht.net

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Wednesday, September 7, 2011

Words of Assurance


Dear Darlene,

I am about to turn 33 weeks pregnant and I know I will have to have a c-section. I have had two before plus one myomectomy. I am getting very nervous as I dislike the surgery (every aspect: spinal block, risk of infection, unable to move legs, pain afterwards, feeling helpless and vulnerable, fear).

I put my trust in God when deciding to try once more but I am not biblically well educated enough to have scripture to mediate on for this journey. I hope you can help me as I would like to face this with God's word in my mind.

Sincerely,

Mommy in Waiting



Dear Mommy in Waiting,

As I started to search the scriptures for you I found so many that were comforting. But since I don't have space to put all 66 books of the Bible in one post *wink* I'll give you a few that I felt will minister in your situation and offer you assurance that God is with you through every step of this journey.

"For I know the plans I have for you," declares the LORD, "plans to prosper you and not to harm you, plans to give you hope and a future."
~ Jeremiah 29:11

For you created my inmost being; you knit me together in my mother’s womb. I praise you because I am fearfully and wonderfully made; your works are wonderful, I know that full well.

My frame was not hidden from you when I was made in the secret place, when I was woven together in the depths of the earth. Your eyes saw my unformed body; all the days ordained for me were written in your book before one of them came to be.
How precious to me are your thoughts, God! How vast is the sum of them! Were I to count them, they would outnumber the grains of sand— when I awake, I am still with you.
~ Psalm 139:13-18

I love how verse 18 reads, "When I awake, I am still with you." Remember those words, and hold on to them when you go into surgery. He will be there like a good friend who waits at your bedside.

I'd actually recommend reading all of Psalm 139 because there are so many words of comfort found there. Maybe you can take a highlighter and mark some of them to meditate on, or jot some of them down in a notebook.

And finally, I'd like to suggest Psalm 23.

The LORD is my shepherd,I shall not be in want.
He makes me lie down in green pastures,
he leads me beside quiet waters, He restores my soul.
He guides me in paths of righteousness for his name's sake.
Even though I walk through the valley of the shadow of death,
I will fear no evil, for you are with me;
your rod and your staff, they comfort me.
You prepare a table before me in the presence of my enemies.
You anoint my head with oil; my cup overflows.
Surely goodness and love will follow me all the days of my life,
and I will dwell in the house of the LORD forever.

Praying that this pregnancy and your stay in the hospital will be a blessing until the time of celebration comes!

You are loved by an almighty God,

Darlene

For comments or questions, contact me at:
darlene[at]darleneschacht.net

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Sunday, September 4, 2011

Website Launch and a Reshaping it All Giveaway!!

Since I've recently launched a new design here at Time-Warp Wife, I thought it would be a good time to host a giveaway, And guess what? I have five copies of Reshaping it All: Motivation for Physical and Spiritual Fitness by Candace Cameron Bure (co-authored by me) to give away!

Reshaping it All inspires women to embrace a healthier lifestyle by moving faith to the forefront, making wise choices, and finding their worth in the eyes of God. Candace shares a candid account of her struggle with food and ultimately her healthy outlook on weight despite the toothpick-thin expectations of Hollywood.

More than a testimony, here is a motivational tool that will put readers on the right track and keep them there. In addition to practical advice, Candace offers a biblical perspective on appetite and self control that provides encouragement to women, guiding them toward freedom.

I recommend this read for anyone who is struggling with weight control, but I also recommend it to those who are trying to give up bad habits like caffeine or sugar addiction. There are so many biblical principles to be gleaned from this book. If you're looking to reshape areas of your life but lack motivation--pick it up.

Would you like to win a copy?

There are a few ways that you can enter for a chance to win. Or you can do all them and have multiple entries!
  • Facebook, Tweet or Blog about Time-Warp Wife

  • Facebook, Tweet or Blog about Reshaping it All
    http://tinyurl.com/3lkc74g (here's the Amazon URL)

  • Invite a friend to enter this giveaway
*For each entry, leave your name in the comment section below, and make sure that I have a way of contacting you.*

I will randomly choose five winners from the comment section below (yes comments are open!) and announce those winners on Saturday, Sept. 10, 2011, so ensure that you enter before midnight on Friday!

Click here to leave a comment

This is open to residents of Canada and the US only. Sorry!

You are loved by an almighty God,

Darlene

For comments or questions, contact me at:
darlene[at]darleneschacht.net

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Four, no, Make that Five Ways to Control Envy


And I saw that all toil and all achievement spring from one person’s envy of another. This too is meaningless, a chasing after the wind. Fools fold their hands and ruin themselves. Better one handful with tranquility than two handfuls with toil and chasing after the wind. ~ Ecclesiastes 4:4-6
Reading this passage of scripture, I got to wondering what motivates me to write. What motivates me to blog? I couldn't help but wonder if that scripture is a gentle reminder to keep my envy in check.

Anytime we're motivated by jealousy we're merely chasing the wind, because those things that we seek outside of God's will for our lives can't fulfill us; they simply leave us empty and craving for more. Common sense will tell us that the wind can never be harnessed neither can a lust for this world.

Most writers desire to publish a book, most women would love the opportunity to write with a celebrity, and nearly every author I know hopes that their book will be a best-seller. Having accomplished all three of those things, I can tell you that they haven't satisfied my desire for greater achievement. I'm still the same blogger I was six years ago, with a desire to publish a book, but the minute I take my focus off of the purpose of my ministry, I naturally desire more.

Jealousy is a dangerous thing that can creep up unnoticed in any area of our life. It brings on stress, a feeling of inadequacy, and sadly it takes our eyes off of our Father's will for our lives. That's why it's so important to always keep it in check.

What if your blog brings in 10 readers a day, and you notice that "A Holy Experience" is attracting thousands? Does that mean that Ann Voskamp is doing something that you should be doing better? Does this tell you that a black template might be your thing? Or that you should change the style of your writing? Should you tweet more? Write more? Comment more?

What it should tell you is that God is blessing you in His own way. Follow His lead--which might be an entirely different path--and that's where you'll discover authentic success.

Many trainers believe that blinders (also known as winkers) are beneficial to race horses because they encourage the animal to pay attention to the race ahead. One of the biggest distractions in a race can be the crowd, another would be the other contestants.

In much the same way, we are far more productive when we focus on the plan ahead rather than checking out the competition and the crowds that they draw.

By controlling our envy, we can focus our energy in four ways:
  • Focus on God's will for your life and seek to serve Him
  • Realize the gifts that you have been given
  • Do not compare yourselves with others
  • Be aware of the dangers of envy and avoid any sign of it
With that said I should add one more given to us in a letter from Paul to the Philippians. I always consider this the "one thing I do" piece of advice. It's valuable!


One thing I do: Forgetting what is behind and straining toward what is ahead, I press on toward the goal to win the prize for which God has called me heavenward in Christ Jesus.
~ Philippians 3:14b-15, NIV
You are loved by an almighty God,

Darlene

For comments or questions, contact me at:
darlene[at]darleneschacht.net

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Saturday, September 3, 2011

New Look, New Button, and Comments are Open!

After a year of blogging here, I decided that it was time to freshen up the look a bit. I definitely wanted a design that reflects "joy" since my hope is that we joyfully serve our families while we seek to worship the Lord.



I've also opened up comments so that I can get to know all of you better. I hope that the comment section will provide a place of encouragement to all who visit.



Finally, I have changed the button of my blog, so if you would like the code, or would like to replace the code you have, it is posted below.


I have some exciting projects posts lined up for the near future. Can't wait to tell you all about that soon.



Have a great weekend!



You are loved by an almighty God,



Darlene



For comments or questions, contact me at:

darlene[at]darleneschacht.net



Find Time-Warp Wife on facebook: Click here



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Friday, September 2, 2011

Protecting Your Credit From Fraudulent Use

I just wonder sometimes if I didn't have any close friends or family to help me with financial questions and such after the split up....what would I have done? One very important thing  is to maintain good credit ratings. Not only does that mean starting up new credit, and maintaining your old credit but making sure it stays in good standing.  I am talking about identity theft protection as well. I know, in my situation, I had some of my ex's credit on my own report when my name wasn't even on his card. I had to keep up with it. It was not easy getting it all straightened out, but I finally did. Identity Hawk is a website that can help those who are needing help with credit, as far as showing where you might have some risk to your identity and can show you how to strenghten areas so that you don't have anyone else trying to use your name or credit.

Thursday, September 1, 2011

Gotta See This One! Wow!!





Four men, one calling: to serve and protect. When tragedy strikes home, these men are left wrestling with their hopes, their fears, their faith, and their fathering.



Protecting the streets is second nature. Raising their children in a God-honoring way? That's courageous.



In theaters September 30th. Can't wait!



You are loved by an almighty God,



Darlene



For comments or questions, contact me at:

darlene[at]darleneschacht.net



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Amendment to October Calendar

If you downloaded my printables for September and October, please note that October's calendar had an error in it, and I have uploaded a new image. Sorry for the inconvenience, and thanks to the reader who pointed it out!



You are loved by an almighty God,



Darlene



For comments or questions, contact me at:

darlene[at]darleneschacht.net



Find Time-Warp Wife on facebook: Click here



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