Thursday, May 31, 2012

Friday Five - June 1st

It's time for the Friday Five, and here are five of my favorites from around the web:

1.This is Lennon 12 and Maisy 8 singing their version of Jason Mraz's I Won't Give Up. These girls are truly amazing. The Stella sisters :) When I saw their talent, I knew it was something that I had to share!




2. $2.99 or Less - 299orLess.net

I hope you don't mind if I share a link of my own? I just opened a second website called $2.99 or Less that offers affordable Christian eBooks. I thought it would be a great place to showcase authors while offering readers a great deal. All eBooks are $2.99 or less, and I'll be adding as many freebies as I can! 

If you want to receive regular updates, sign up to have them delivered to your inbox. There's a subscriber's form in the right-hand sidebar. 








3. Strawberry Jell-o Poke Hole Cake - Allergy Free

Doesn't this look like a delicious treat for summer? Yum!


4. Joy Sings "The Itsy Bitsy Spider." 

Grace Full Mama encourages women to give up on trying to do what everyone else is doing and embrace your God given talents. It's a good read for women who tend to compare. What's your thing?


5. Raspberry-Coconut Popsicles


With real fruit accompanied by naturally sweet coconut milk and honey, this is a homemade treat you can feel great about serving your kids. Or yourself. And you don't need popsicle molds to make them either, since these ones are made in dixie cups. Brilliant!


Raspberry coconut popsicles Raspberry Coconut Popsicles: Bring on the Summer!


You are loved by an almighty God,

Darlene

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Printable Calendar for June

The printable calendar is ready for June! The page has the month at a glance, plus the following sections to write in:
  • To Do's - Things you need to do today
  • Hope To Do's - Additional things you'd like to do if time permits
  • Prayer Requests 
  • Reminders 
  • Bible Reading - What you plan to read in the Bible or a verse that comes to mind
  • Groceries
  • Thinking Ahead - Goals or future commitments
  • People to Call
Each page is intended for daily use, therefore I'd recommend printing off several at a time.

And if you haven't checked it out yet, take a look at my weekly housekeeping schedule. It's a great way to get the house clean and keep it looking that way!

If you would like to view or download the printable,
just click the link below the image. (Original is a full-sized page).

If you are an email subscriber, and have trouble viewing the links, click through to the website at: Time-Warp Wife.

You are loved by an almighty God,

Darlene

If you'd like to leave a comment, visit Time-Warp Wife on facebook: Click here

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Check out The Good Wife's Guide, now available in paperback.

Wednesday, May 30, 2012

The Heart of Simplicity - Book Review

The Heart of Simplicity:
Foundations For Christian Homemaking

From the hearts of over a dozen Christian women…to yours





I was handed a copy of this eBook a few weeks ago when one of the contributing authors asked me if I'd be willing to review it. Knowing that Jennifer Ross was involved I was interested enough to at least check it out. I already enjoy her blog and I loved her homemaking DVD, which is why this book intrigued me, and besides that I recognized a few of the other writers as well.

First off, I have to say that whoever chose the writing team for this project is brilliant. She knows talent when she sees it and after reading through the book, so do I. In every chapter I found myself clicking through links to see who the author was.

I started highlighting some of my favorite parts, and when all was said and done I was left with little more than a yellow manuscript. I couldn't possibly share them all with you, but I will share a few of my favorite lines:

When we realize that we must come to the end of ourselves to gain through Him, our vision is clear, our strength is renewed, and our joy is made full. Homemaking truly is a beautiful calling that brings joy beyond words.


Men tend to have a great need to be respected and the Scriptures are very clear that wives must respect their husbands. The way we behave from day to day with our husbands says a lot about our love for them.

The issue here is not “his role vs. my role.” It’s forgetting that even though we fill different roles within the marriage, we need to fill those roles in such a way that our lives are intertwined with each other, instead of running next to each other, like parallel lines.


Our homes should be places of rest and security. In a hostile and busy world, marriage should be a sanctuary. The culture we live in has abandoned the sanctity of marriage, largely because we have abandoned God and His heart for marriage.

As mothers, our hope is to be clothed in strength for the coming days. As I age and the influence of my life continues on into my children and their children and their children’s children, my hope is that they will know their grandmother trusted in the Lord and had a heart towards heaven. 


And my favorite...


Instead of just raising “good little kids,” I pray that we will raise dangerous men and daring daughters who will expand the kingdom of God. Our kids are like arrows . . . but they need to be sharpened and aimed and released . . . so they can hit God’s bulls-eye mark.

From the Website...

Today’s typical lifestyle is marked by busyness, consumerism, and stress. We, as women, often complain that there’s not enough time to “do it all.”

Do we suffer from a lack of time? No. We suffer from a lack of eternal perspective.

How we invest our time on earth will impact eternity in a million ways. Join over a dozen Christian women as we learn how to simplify our lives from the inside out and build homemaking foundations focused on Christ.

When we are faithful to focus on what is truly essential in our homemaking, we can build an eternal legacy... one simple day at a time.

Find out more about the book and meet the writers at, The Heart of Simplicity:


You are loved by an almighty God,

Darlene

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Monday, May 28, 2012

God Equips Those He Calls


"God Doesn't Call the Equipped
He Equips Those He Calls."
~ Author Unknown

If you saw Women Living Well's post the other day you might have read that a few bloggers, including myself were approached by a production company who is interested in the possibility of doing a TV show or a documentary. At this point we're only in the "talking/thinking" stages. Whether anything will actually come of it is for God to decide. Where He leads I'll follow.

When the letter came in asking whether I'd consider the possibility, I brushed it off the same way I brushed off an interview from a New York magazine the week before until they approached me again. My first reaction was that it couldn't possibly be serious, and the second was that I'm inadequate to take on a task of this magnitude. About a week and a half ago the phone rang--it was them. They were indeed serious. After an hour long conversation they wanted to proceed to a Skype interview.

At this point I was impressed to leave the door open, but at the same time I had resolved that I didn't have it in me to do this, after all, I'm an average, middle-aged mom from the prairie. What could they possibly want with me? I'm not skinny enough, I'm not young enough, I'm not pretty enough, I'm not confident enough, I'm not experienced enough, I'm not eloquent enough... and the list goes on...

Friday afternoon I felt compelled to open my daily devotion. The feeling was stronger than it is most days--much stronger--I couldn't help but wonder if God was trying to tell me something. After reading it through I knew that He was.
God Calling May 25th

There will be no limit to what you can accomplish. Realize that. Never relinquish any task or give up the thought of any task because it seems beyond your power, only if you see it is not My Will for you. This I command you.

Think of the tiny snowdrop-shoot in the hard ground. No certainty even that when it has forced its weary way up, sunlight and warmth will greet it.

What a task beyond its power that must seem. But the inner urge of Life within the seed compelling it, it carries out that task. The Kingdom of Heaven is like unto this.
The bottom line in all of this is that I've learned an important life lesson: my strength doesn't lie in human wisdom, but in God's power alone. This life isn't about me it's about Him. It doesn't matter whether I'm skinny enough, young enough, pretty enough, confident enough, experienced enough, or eloquent enough, all that matters is that I'm ready and willing to be used as He desires to lead. Whether that means He calls me to further consider this or He leads me in a brand new direction tomorrow I must learn that's it's no longer I that liveth, but Christ that liveth in me.

You know what girl? That same message is here for you too. Don't ever let this world get you down. If you have put your faith in Jesus Christ, you are a vessel of an almighty God who is able to bring you to and through any situation that you come across. Whether a task is big or small, be ready and willing to answer His call.

Since Paul says it so much better than I ever could, I'd love to close with his words:
And so it was with me, brothers and sisters. When I came to you, I did not come with eloquence or human wisdom as I proclaimed to you the testimony about God. For I resolved to know nothing while I was with you except Jesus Christ and him crucified.

I came to you in weakness with great fear and trembling. My message and my preaching were not with wise and persuasive words, but with a demonstration of the Spirit’s power, so that your faith might not rest on human wisdom, but on God’s power. ~ 1 Corinthians 2:1-5, NIV


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, recipes, etc.

All you have to do is enter the direct link from your post into the linky tool below!

I'd also like to ask you to link back here with the Titus 2sday code (below) so that other bloggers can join in too!

You are loved by an almighty God,

Darlene

If you'd like to leave a comment, join in the conversation on facebook: Click here

Author of The Good Wife's Guide, available as an eBook or paperback.

Sunday, May 27, 2012

Quick 'N Easy Pasta Salad






Blessed is the home
of a woman who joyfully serves,
offering gifts
by the work of her hands.


When I'm asked to bring a salad to dinner, my first choice is usually my "Quick 'N Easy Pasta Salad." I have to say that it's one of my family's top five when it comes to the dishes I make, and the best thing is that it's probably the easiest dish to make too.

With a little help from my kids who enjoy washing veggies, chopping tomatoes and crumbling cheese, we can have this salad made in the time it takes to boil the pasta!

Ingredients:  

4 C dry fusili noodles (more if you want a larger salad)
1 C red pepper
1 green pepper
½ C red onion
2 cups of broccoli florets
3 tomatoes
500 ml feta cheese (because we like lots)
1 Bottle of Kraft Zesty Italian Dressing

Procedure:

Boil the pasta.

While the pasta is cooking, wash and chop your vegetables and put them into a large bowl.

Once the pasta is done, rinse with cool water and add to the vegetables. If pasta isn't completely cool, refrigerate for about 20 minutes before adding the feta.

Drain the feta, and crumble into the salad.

Toss all ingredients together.

Add salad dressing to taste just before serving.

Note: Some people prefer to add the dressing and let it sit n the fridge for a while. I prefer to add it just before or while serving.

Hope you and your family enjoy!

You are loved by an almighty God,

Darlene

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Thursday, May 24, 2012

Friday Five! May 25th

It's a new week, and here are five of my favorites from around the web:

1. Knot No-Hem Shorts - Crafty Critique

Add some style to Bermuda shorts with Crafty Critique's Knot-No Hem tutorial. I love how cute these are!

These are SO EASY to make. Right after posting the blog I grabbed a pair of Madison's jeans and I was done in 30 minutes from start to finish.




I started having this strange feeling that something wasn’t right. I had my husband’s password to his account (because we trust each other and wanted to be accountable) on Facebook. So about 11:30am during the weekday(with a strong feeling), I logged on his account and looked at his messages. What I didn’t realize was he was chatting with her right then! I stopped breathing for a second, I felt my whole world spin out of control. Read more...


3. Mini Cherry Pies - How Adorable are These?

After taking a look at these mini cherry pies, my mind started to wander... apple pie, pumpkin pie, coconut cream pie... the possibilities are endless. I definitely want to try making mini coconut cream! 

Visit What You Giveaway You Keep for a recipe and tutorial on these babies!


4. Father's Day Cookies - Somewhat Simple

Somewhat Simple offers a few creative ideas for making Father's Day Cookies. So cute!


5. Humbling the Grumbling - Cross Moms

I am realizing that when I do clean up the house and cook dinner, etc… and I don’t receive the “praises,” I tend to exude a tit-for-tat attitude, and I take on a selfish tone when someone asks me to do something for them. I then justify my response by thinking that I’m not going to raise any lazy children who won’t do for themselves! If they’re not going to help me—huh! I’m not going to help them.

But here is where the frying pan recently whacked me over the head: Read more...



You are loved by an almighty God,

Darlene

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5 Ways to Resist Temptation


The other day I got to talking to a married friend and young mother who told me that she was recently approached by an ex-boyfriend who wrote her a heart-felt letter. If that isn’t temptation wrapped in a bow and handed to her on a silver platter, I don’t know what is. But I do know that this happens more often than women are willing to admit. Social networking has opened the door to behind-the-scenes communication and easy access to temptation unlike anything we've seen before.

She isn’t the only woman who recently told me this. The next day I heard a similar story--the names were changed, but the details and the storm of emotions she felt resembled that of the other. Satan knows our weak spot and too often it’s found in matters of the heart.

The initial temptation is an external one, but the lies we start to tell ourselves are internal, and that’s why we need to protect our thoughts before they become action that we live to regret.

Desiring a closer walk with the Lord, both women have made a conscious decision to turn their back on the past and move forward. Praise God for their faithfulness!

I got to thinking about the sacrifice that they’ve made and the reward that God gives to those who diligently seek Him with a pure heart.
For before he [Enoch] was taken, he was commended as one who pleased God. And without faith it is impossible to please God, because anyone who comes to him must believe that he exists and that he rewards those who earnestly seek him. ~ Hebrews 11:5b-6
I think it’s important to emphasize the words in verse six, “He rewards those…” so that we don’t seek our reward from this world. Let me explain…

We often hear of people who make decisions like this but later they start to question whether that decision was the right one or not. If you give up the chance to be with a handsome, charming man, then start to notice that your husband is really getting on your nerves or isn’t quite as attractive as he once was, you might ask yourself. “What is the point? I’ve given up so much, but I’ve received nothing in return.”

The problem with that scenario—if it should happen, and I pray that it doesn’t—is that we are looking to our husbands for our reward, not our Lord. GOD is the one who graciously rewards those who diligently seek Him, not this world.

A biblical account of this is found in Genesis chapter 39 where Joseph refused the advances of Potipher’s wife. Out of respect to his master and to God, Joseph fled temptation and left. As a result of his loyalty, he was imprisoned by Potipher himself. But notice this portion of scripture:
But while Joseph was there in the prison, the LORD was with him; he showed him kindness and granted him favor in the eyes of the prison warden. So the warden put Joseph in charge of all those held in the prison, and he was made responsible for all that was done there. The warden paid no attention to anything under Joseph’s care, because the LORD was with Joseph and gave him success in whatever he did. ~ Genesis 39:20b-23, NIV
See where I’m going with this? When we look for the praise of others we aren't keen on sensing God's presence. When our eyes are closed to the spiritual world, we don’t notice His favor upon us. And finally, when we look to the world for reward, we don’t see the gracious reward that the Lord is already placing before us.

While we're all dealing with differing temptations in our life. Let's look at five ways we can resist it:
  1. Recognize sin when you see it lurking. Don't toy with it.
  2. Flee temptation as soon as you realize that you are being drawn away.
  3. Study the Bible regularly so that you are equipped to destroy the lies with truth.
  4. Pray asking God to take the temptation away, and if possible confide in friend who will lift you up in prayer and keep you accountable.
  5. Keep a safe distance between you and those things or people that you view as a potential temptation. Or if you must keep them close as in the case of a working relationship, keep your communication out in the open.
You are loved by an almighty God,

Darlene

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Tuesday, May 22, 2012

31 Ways to Inspire Your Children


  1. Choose your battles wisely ~ give patience where patience is due, and continually ask God for wisdom in discipline.
  2. While your children are growing, pray often for their salvation, as the prophet Isaiah wrote, "Drop down, ye heavens, from above, and let the skies pour down righteousness: let the earth open, and let them bring forth salvation, and let righteousness spring up together; I the LORD have created it." ~ Isaiah 45:8
  3. Give children age appropriate responsibilities teaching them to care for the things God gives us.
  4. Each child is individual; pray that God will help you in developing that individual character.
  5. Listen to how your children speak, and encourage them to choose words wisely at school and at home. It’s important to teach them to bridle their tongue.
  6. Set standards for your children as you teach them the importance of modest dress. They should represent themselves as holy and acceptable unto God.
  7. Never forget to tell your children you’re proud of them. Don’t assume that they already know how you feel.
  8. Teach your child to tithe by suggesting that they take one tenth of their allowance to put aside for church offering. Also teach them that we can give in additional ways such as donating old toys and clothes to the poor.
  9. Pray often that your children will long to please God, and that they will desire to walk in His ways as the Psalmist wrote, "More to be desired are they than gold, yea, than much fine gold, sweeter also than honey and the honeycomb." ~ Psalm 19:10
  10. Pray over your children while they are sleeping. With a heart like Hannah, give them over to God.
  11. Start notebooks for each of your children, and together journal the changing world around us. Take note of the tiniest detail in God’s creation. Babies. Snowflakes. Lady Bugs…
  12. Keep a running list of prayer requests and pray together as a family often.
  13. Bible reading is a wonderful way to spend time together as a family. Make it a routine in your home.
  14. Visit relatives often to show children the value of relationships.
  15. Choose a character from the Bible and after reading the story together discuss how that message relates to your child today.
  16. Give time to your children each day. The time you give makes the words you speak of more value to them.
  17. Bring your children to church and help them seek out ways to get involved.
  18. Be an example to your children of one who loves her neighbor as herself through random acts of kindness. Lend a helping hand to a busy neighbor, or take time out of a busy day to simply say hello.
  19. Try counting the stars on a clear night to show your child how vast God’s creation is.
  20. Laughter is medicine for the soul ~ laugh often with your children.
  21. Smile often, and let kindness be a cloak you wear as an example to your children.
  22. Don’t just tell your children that you love them ~ tell them what you love about them.
  23. Pray for purity in the hearts of your children, and the renewing of their spirit as the Psalmist wrote, "Create in me a clean heart, O God, and renew a right spirit within me." ~ Psalm 51:10
  24. Take opportunities to give thanks by taking turns around the dinner table to express what you are thankful for.
  25. Encourage praise reports and prayer requests on a regular basis. 
  26. Be an example to your children in the way that you love and honor your husband.
  27. Enlighten your children to the world around them by supporting missions and teaching them that there is a world both hungry for food and hungry for God. Pray that they will have a heart for missions.
  28. Take opportunities to hug your children often, to hold their hands, or to rest an assuring hand on their shoulder.
  29. Show your children that you appreciate them by doing something special just for them, like making their favorite meal, or taking them out for an ice cream.
  30. As you watch your child grow, pray for meekness in that young spirit--a spirit that will grow in the likeness of Christ. As Paul wrote to the Ephesians in chapter 4:2, "With all lowliness and meekness, with longsuffering, forbearing one another in love."
  31. Make it a habit to learn scripture together. Children learn best from example. 

You are loved by an almighty God,

Darlene

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      Our Simple Farm




Monday, May 21, 2012

Love Worth Fighting For - And a Titus 2sday Link Up!

This is one of my favorite mini-sermons by Kirk Cameron. Because it's a recap of his "Love Worth Fighting For" event, the video is only 7 minutes long, but it's definitely got some encouraging words for marriages today! I like that he addresses the problem of a sinful heart as being the root of marital problems.




Here are a few of the quotes I pulled from it:

I know that the God who designed the universe also designed marriage.

God speaks with authority on every topic including marriage, and His advice trumps Oprahs every time!

We can struggle with trying to fix our marriage problems, but if we don't first address the problem with the human heart, all the advice is worthless. The Bible says, "The heart is deceitful above all things and desperately wicked," and it's only God who can transform that sinful heart.

People run to Dr. Phil, Dr. Laura and Dr. Ruth about their marriage problems, but the problem isn't as much a problem of communication, or emotions or physicality, as much as it's a problem of the soul. And there's only one qualified Soul Doctor in the universe. His name is Jesus Christ, and He's the first doctor that we should go to with our marriage problems because it's all rooted in the problem of a selfish sinful heart.

Once we get a new heart with new desires through conversion, we can start applying the principles of God's Word.

In marriage we're either moving increasingly toward selfishness and demanding to have things our way which leads to separateness in our relationship or we're surrendering ourselves to the Lord, not demanding our way. But saying, "Lord may your will be done," which leads to togetherness with our spouse.

Instead of asking God to change our spouse so that we can have our marriage our way, we say, "God I'm asking you to give my spouse a new me--change me. And please use me as a vessel of healing in my relationship."

We need to attack sin with great determination and cut it off like a vipers head. And the primary way we do that is by asking God to transform the desires of our heart. And we do that at the cross.

[At the cross of repentance] We develop a love for God and our spouse that is so great that it empowers us to leave our secret sins behind and pursue this God that first loved us.

Visit: http://loveworthfightingfor.com/


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, recipes, etc.

All you have to do is enter the direct link from your post into the linky tool below!

I'd also like to ask you to link back here with the Titus 2sday code (below) so that other bloggers can join in too!

You are loved by an almighty God,

Darlene

If you'd like to leave a comment, join in the conversation on facebook: Click here

Author of The Good Wife's Guide, available as an eBook or paperback.


How To Stay Focused - And a Free Printable!

A recent question, and one that I'm frequently asked is, "How can I stay focused?" It's really funny that people ask me this question because I'm one of the most unfocused people I know. 


But one thing I've learned in this life is that the areas in which I struggle the most, are the areas which I have studied the most, because I'm determined to overcome my struggles. Focus is one of them. It's also something that two of my children have struggled with but we find ways to stay on track. 


One of my favorite ways to stay focused is to put on music when I'm working. Did you know that music is a natural stimulant? It's amazing how quickly we get our work done when everyone is humming along to a song.  


Another way that I stay focused is following lists. If you haven't noticed by now, I'm a list lady. I have to write everything down, and then I usually have to write a note reminding myself to check what I've written down. *wink*

I'll tell you this, any day I follow a "to-do" list, I get twice the work done than I do on days that I don't. Not only do I get more work done, but completing and checking things off of a list gives me a feeling of accomplishment. I love looking back to see everything I've accomplished. It's much better than looking ahead to see how much there is yet to do, isn't it? 

So for all of you unfocused women out there, I've created a printable with you in mind. This one is a "To-Do Today" page that helps you get on track and stay on track. 

What you see below is a sample of the printable. If you click the link below it, you can view and download the  high resolution image. 


You are loved by an almighty God,

Darlene
Author of The Good Wife's Guide: Embracing Your Role as a Help Meet

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Friday, May 18, 2012

We Bumped Up the Flexi Clip Giveaway!


Since the Lilla Rose giveaway has been such a great success, Sue Ellen just sent me a note offering 2 extra Flexi Clips to my readers!! Woohoo!!

Just to make sure that email subscribers get this notification in time, and have a chance to enter, I've extended the giveaway one extra day.

If you haven't entered yet, go here and get your entry in, but hurry, because this giveaway will close soon.

Thanks, Sue Ellen!!

Click here to find the original post and giveaway.

You are loved by an almighty God,

Darlene
Author of The Good Wife's Guide: Embracing Your Role as a Help Meet

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Thursday, May 17, 2012

12 Simple Tips For Relationship Bliss

How do we make our relationship work?

One of the most common questions we hear is, "How do we make our relationship work?" The answers are complicated, varied, and, after a while, can start to sound like muddled platitudes. But these common place sayings get repeated because they work. With this in mind, we pulled together 12 cliches that, in fact, reveal simple, tried-and-true advice for having a healthy, happy relationship.


1. Mind your manners. "Please," "thank you" and "you're welcome," can go a long way in helping your partner remember that you respect and love him and don't take him for granted.

2. Variety is the spice of life. Studies have shown that dullness can lead to dissatisfaction with a relationship. Trying something new can be as simple as visiting an unfamiliar restaurant or as grand as a backpacking trip through Sri Lanka. Discoveries you make together will keep you feeling close.

3. The couple that plays together, stays together. Find a sport or hobby that you both love (no, watching TV does not count) and make that a priority in your relationship. Camping, biking, building model trains... whatever it is, find something you enjoy doing together.

4. Fight right. In order to have productive arguments, keep these rules in mind. Don't call your spouse names. When things get really tough, take a break from the argument. Let the other person finish his/her sentences. Don't initiate a discussion when you're angry


5. I'll scratch your back if you scratch mine. No one likes demands (unless you're in a BDSM role play), but everyone can appreciate a compromise. If you want your lover to do something and you're not sure he'll be agreeable, the quickest way to avoid a confrontation is to sweeten the deal. For example: "Sure, I'll watch Monday Night Football if you take me to see the next movie of my choice."

6. Two heads are better than one. Being in a relationship basically means you've made a merger; you've not only joined assets but inherited the other's problems as well. Rather than looking at his problems as merely his own, tackle them together. For example, if he's gaining weight, rather than pushing him to diet on his own, enroll in an exercise program together.


8. Sound it out. It other words: communicate! Talking out the tough subjects—money, religion, fidelity, raising kids—will not be the most fun you've had, but it'll be valuable


9. Laughter is the best medicine. Learn to laugh at yourself and at silly mistakes. If he throws your $300 cashmere sweater in the dryer, laughing it off is, in the long run, better than getting angry. It's is just a $300 cashmere sweater, not the end of the world.

10. Keep your eyes on the prize. Yes, he forgot your co-worker's name for the tenth time, but it probably doesn't mean he doesn't care about you. If you keep your perspective fixed on the goal—to be in a happy, functioning partnership—you're less likely to get tangled up in every minor annoyance. Remember, you both want the same thing.

11. Quitters never win. Find a ritual and keep it alive, no matter what. Whether it's always kissing each other good night, renewing wedding vows every year, sleeping in as late as you want once a month or committing to having sex once a week, pick something that makes you both feel good and stick to it, even when you're tempted to skip. 

12. When the going gets tough, the tough get going... to therapy. Studies show that couples who seek counseling during rocky periods are more successful in resolving their issues than those who don't. Whether its from a religious figure, counselor or mental health professional, getting an expert to help sort out strife is as wise as forgoing self-installation and hiring a plumber to put in a new sink.

Wednesday, May 16, 2012

These Hands


I tiptoed my way toward the crib hoping to steal one last look before going to sleep. Crumpled up in his bed like a kitten slept the little man who was placed in my care. This baby, though only a few months old had already been through the valley of the shadow of death, but by the grace of God he lives—by the stripes of our Savior he’s healed. With such a marvelous glory before me I couldn’t help but to brush his cheek with my hand before leaving.

Standing outside in the hall, I looked down at the palm of my hand, still feeling his warmth. This hand was a familiar one that I had seen somewhere before—adorned with a simple wedding band, marked with a touch of arthritis, and clothed with lines and creases liken to roads of years traveled—what I recognized were the hands of a mother.

A vintage suitcase marked with stamps collected through journeys, my hands have traveled to far away places. Now bursting with riches they can hardly contain, these hands hold a treasure of memories locked deep inside.

They held my own mother’s arms that pulled up my trousers, while I felt the warmth of her breath on my neck. They curiously turned the handle to peer at my father while he undressed for the shower—yes, the same hand that stifled a giggle as I ran from his voice. They held their first cup of milk careful to not spill a drop, and later their first glass of Coke as the bubbles jumped from the cup.

My hands have waved high in the air, hoping that one would be seen and be heard. They've held the hands of fair maidens in the kingdom of friendship. They held the hand of new love, and took another in marriage. They've placed coins in the hands of the poor, and received coin when times have been rough. They’ve felt the coldness of death and the warmth of a newborn’s first grasp. They've reached out in the dark to give and get love.

They've pushed the back of a swing that soared through the air, and tied the laces on skates making sure that each leg was tight. They've learned to hold on and let go.

Then I see a different pair of hands, but unlike mine, they've been scarred from the journey. These hands have held his mother’s arms as he felt the warmth of her breath on his neck. They've been used to stifle a giggle and place coins in the hand of the poor. They've held hands of royal princes in the kingdom of God. They've reached out in the dark to give love, and bring life. They felt the coldness of death and the power of life. These hands are familiar ones that I can only imagine to see—the hands of a Savior—my Jesus.

My little man, Graham is twelve years old now. Living and breathing against all the odds. I have seen him so near to death that a team of doctors rushed to his crib late at night, and the same child so near to the glory of God that his face reflected the light.

Herein lies the power of life—the hands of a savior—my Jesus.
But he was wounded for our transgressions, he was bruised for our iniquities: the chastisement of our peace was upon him; and with his stripes we are healed. Isaiah 53:5

You are loved by an almighty God,

Darlene

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Tuesday, May 15, 2012

Lilla Rose Review and a Giveaway!!


Some days having a teenage daughter is kind of like having my own Barbie doll. Last week we were out shopping for her graduation dress and the next day we were doing hair-dos. Maddy's gotten to that age now where she not only likes to have her hair done, she wants to experiment with mine too.

When Sue Ellen Hale offered to send us one of her "flexi clips" from the Lilla Rose collection to review, Madison was checking the mailbox every day after school! To tell you the truth, I was expecting a pretty barrette, but because the clip is so flexible I discovered that it's so much more. We LOVE ours.

Before I even had a chance to put it in Madison's hair, she was in the bathroom creating a style. Here's a photo of Madison wearing the clip with our Pug Bailey looking over her shoulder. Thank you, Sue Ellen!


If you'd like to see other hairstyles, check out Sue Ellen's Lilla Rose page on Facebook. And here is a video that helps women choose the best size for them. Notice "Tika's" hair at 3:17. Wow!





Do you want to win one? If so please enter using the Rafflecopter gadget below. Subscribers, please click through to the website to access it.

You can gain entry points in a number of ways:

Visit the Lila Rose Website 2 pts
Like Sue Ellen's Lilla Rose Page on facebook 2 pts
Sign up for her free Lilla Rose newsletter  2 pts
Subscribe to Time-Warp Wife 2 pts


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You are loved by an almighty God,

Darlene

If you'd like to leave a comment, visit Time-Warp Wife on facebook: Click here

If you would like to have Time-Warp Wife delivered to your inbox daily, simply click here: Subscribe to Time-Warp Wife

Read my book, The Good Wife's Guide: Embracing Your Role as a Help Meet - eBook version is only $2.99!


Monday, May 14, 2012

Perogi Recipe


Have I told you lately how incredible my 14-yr-old daughter is? She went grocery shopping after school so that she could cook a meal for some friends of ours. They've dealt with a few tragedies over the past couple of weeks, and she wanted to show them some love. (Our love and prayers are with you, Kenny family).

Sure I thought of bringing them a meal too, but the truth is that I was tired from a busy day. Grocery shopping and extra cooking wasn't all that appealing to me. I suggested that it might be a better idea to wait for another day, but Madison was insistent on taking care of it all, and doing it today. Some days I wish I was more like her.

Here's the thing... she could have chosen to make a simple dessert or casserole, but instead she chose one of the most time consuming recipes I know of--homemade perogies.

Perogies are a very popular dish for Canadians, and from what I understand many of my American readers have never heard of them yet. Out here, they are about as popular as Pizza.

Because they take a while to make from scratch most people just pick up a bag of frozen perogis at the supermarket. That's easy and affordable, but anyone who likes perogis knows that nothing beats homemade.

Want to try making them yourself? I thought some of you might, so I'm posting the recipe along with an easy tutorial for you.

It's a great dish for moms and daughters to make together. Yeah, Madison wanted to do it herself, but I pitched in and helped where I could. We had a great time working together and I'll venture to guess you will too!


Perogies - Makes about 24


Ingredients


Dough: 

2 cups of flour
1/2 t. salt
3/4 cups cold water
2 tsp. vinegar
1/2 egg beaten
2 tsp oil

Filling: 

2 Potatoes
1/2 medium onion coarsely chopped
1/2 medium onion finely chopped
3 strips of bacon (optional)
1/2 cup of grated cheese
Salt and Pepper to taste

Suggested Toppings:

Sour cream
Onions fried in butter

Directions for filling:

Bring two cups of water to boil in a medium-sized pot. While you are waiting for the water, peel and quarter potatoes. Rinse. Finely chop the first half of the onion.


Add the potatoes and the finely chopped onion to the boiling water. Note: This is only the first 1/2 of the onion. Cover, reduce heat to medium, and continue to boil gently until the potatoes are tender (check with a fork).


Drain the potatoes and onion and mash them while they are still hot.

Chop the bacon into small pieces, and coarsely chop the remaining half onion. Fry the bacon, then add the onion adding a little oil to the pan if necessary or if you are omitting the bacon. Continue frying until the onions are caramelized. Add this mixture to the mashed potatoes. Also add grated cheese, salt and pepper. Mash well.


Directions for Dough:

Put the flour in a large mixing bowl. Add water, vinegar, oil and egg. Mix well. You can add a little extra water if necessary, but if so be careful not to add much. Very little is best.

Knead the dough mixture on a floured counter top until the texture is smooth, not sticky.


Roll out the dough on the counter, then use a small glass to cut circles. Once all of the circles are cut, gather up the remaining dough, roll it out again and continue to cut circles. 


Once all of the circles are cut out, stuff them with the potato mixture and fold into half circles. See the video below for specific instructions.










Finally put a large pot of water on the stove and bring it to a boil. Add the perogies to the boiling water and cook them until they float to the top.

Drain and serve with sour cream.


You are loved by an almighty God,

Darlene

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Author of The Good Wife's Guide, now available in paperback.



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Sunday, May 13, 2012

Why Marriage is Like a GPS


Last summer my family and I took a road trip across the country to Banff, Alberta. Thankfully before leaving home my husband picked up a GPS for the van. After using it to navigate through the city of Calgary, I couldn't imagine travelling without it. It was able to direct us right from our driveway at home to the front door of our hotel without barely a hitch.

We did however have one evening that proved to be interesting. We were out searching for a Mexican restaurant, and I don't know if Michael was tired or Calgary was that confusing, but it seemed that he missed every turn we were supposed to take. The minute we missed a turn the voice on the GPS systems said, "recalculating." And recalculate it did, about a dozen times before we finally arrived at the restaurant where we discovered a "Closed" sign. It was time to get back in the van and recalculate things yet again.

This morning at church someone pointed out how marriage is like a GPS system. Most people go into marriage with their idea of what things should look like, and how life will pan out. In fact one of the most exciting things that you can do with your partner is discuss your hopes and dreams for the future. 

How many kids do you want to have? Where do you want to live? At what age do you want to retire?

These are some the of things that you program into your GPS system as you save and plan for the future. The problem--if you can even call it a problem--is that your life is constantly recalculating the paths that you take. Things rarely to never turn out exactly the way that we planned because it's impossible to see past today. All we are given is this moment, tomorrow belongs to the Lord.  Are you flexible enough to let Him lead the way?

To me being flexible is synonymous with being content. A content woman brings glory to her husband, while trusting God for their future. While a discontent woman is the equivalent of a nagging GPS. Imagine for a moment if instead of happily recalculating the journey for you, a voice came over the system complaining, nagging, and reminding you of the fact that you missed every turn. How long do you think you'd listen to it before turning the volume off or tossing it out of the window?

Recalculating only becomes a problem when we stop trusting God with our future. We have a choice--we can either enjoy the twists and the turns in the road, or we can complain that life isn't all that we hoped for.
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

You are loved by an almighty God,

Darlene

If you'd like to leave a comment, visit Time-Warp Wife on facebook: Click here

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Check out my book, The Good Wife's Guide: Embracing Your Role as a Help Meet

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I'm over at Roo Mag today sharing a post called, "Living a Sacrificial Life:"

In Reshaping it All, there is a chapter called, "Meekness isn't a Weakness," and in that chapter Candace and I talk about the character of Jesus Christ and His outstanding ability to bridle his anger. From this we can take an example from Jesus who went to the cross like a sheep to the slaughter.

We aren’t called to defend ourselves--we are called to defend our God and His Word. Read more...

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Friday, May 11, 2012

Give Him a Night to Remember


Romantic Game for Lovers

As exciting as your love life has been since you first got together, often times after a few years the spark needs to be rekindled. If you and your lover have gotten into a sexual rut, you can spice up the sex by using role play games to get him hot all over again, and it's much simpler than you think to do. Want to do something special for your lover that he's not expecting? Role play is the most adventurous way to excite and tantalize him on a special night, so for Valentines Day, your anniversary, or just for fun, set up a night to remember using this step by step guide for the fantasy of picking up a stranger in a bar:

Start by making reservations at a hotel near the bar, and then leave exciting little notes around the house to tell him what to do. The first one should be some where he will see it as soon as he comes home. It should read something along the lines of simply “I have a surprise for you in the bedroom."
When he goes into the bedroom, leave a note on the bed saying “someone wants to meet you. Look in the closet." In the closet, a note pinned to his favorite shirt-or yours- reads “Wear this after you take a shower."
In the bathroom, there is a note on the shower curtain. “Go to the (insert name of bar here at time)." By now he's probably wondering what you have in store for him, and he's excited about the prospect of a surprise. Wear his favorite sexy dress and make sure you're sitting where he can't see you when he gets to the bar, but sit somewhere that you can see the door so you'll know when he comes in-keep the other vultures at bay by telling them you're waiting for someone. Have a couple drinks and think about what you've got planned for the evening. Relax and have fun.
When your lover gets to the bar, side up to him, pretending you don't know him. Ask them something like-"Want to buy a lady a drink?" you can flirt a little with the other guys, or do whatever comes naturally to the two of you, he may get into the spirit of the game right away, recognizing it for what it is, but make sure you both don't do anything that will arouse suspicion or jealousy later, that's not what this is about. Continue the game until you decide to leave together.
As he walks you to the car, tell him you've reserved a room. You can have the room ready with massage oils, sex toys, champagne, and chocolates, anything you've thought of to make the night memorable. Strip him and give him a massage, take a shower together, and draw out the night any way your imagination takes you.


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