How To Rest on Sunday Sabbath

Over the years I have strived to learn how to truly experience what a sabbath rest could look like in our home. I always knew the Lord was good to provide us such a day (and for some of you, it might not be Sunday, but another day of the week) where our weary souls could rest and refocus ourselves on the Lord.

Here are a few tips to help make Sundays truly a day of rest:

1. Prepare all your clothes the day before. Everything down to shoes, hairbands, tights and socks--this helps so much for large families. Do all the ironing the day before too.

2. Fill the bags. Make sure your diaper bag is stocked with extra clothes and snacks. Did you remember to put your tithe in your purse? Did you pack a bag for coloring books and crayons for the wee ones while they sit in church?

3. Prepare the food---use a crockpot for a hot dinner when you get home.

4. Forget the dishes---and buy paper plates, paper cups and silverware just for this day so everyone can truly have a rest. If you want to use real dishes, you can hold off for cleaning and just soak the dishes until Monday morning.

5. Plan to really rest. Be intentional. Don't fill up the time doing WORK!! Turn you mind away from busyness and meditate on scripture or the preaching you are listening to. Try to fellowship with other families or spend meaningful time as a family.

Our church likes to have a potluck after the end of every service. All of the families bring a dish or two and we enjoy good fellowship for lunch. Sometimes we stay as late as 8pm just hanging out and talking with eachother! I know of other churches who do this too and the fellowship is sweet.

Twice a month our church has a thing called Simple Sundays. I really love this because on this day all the young daughters of the families make a simple meal or soup and help to serve it. Then when everyone is done eating, the fathers and the sons wash dishes and help to clean up. This truly makes for a rest day for the moms and women there and is such a blessing to teach the younger one's to serve in the church.

Now I would like to hear how you celebrate/rest on Sunday's. What tips would you add or idea would you include?

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The Reformation Day Faire 2010

This past weekend my family was thrilled to visit Providence Church once again for their annual Reformation Day Faire. It is a glorious time to learn about the Reformation and hear great speakers teach about reformers who had come before us. This years compelling speakers included Kevin Swanson (pictured above), Marcus Serven and James MacDonald. They all did an excellent job at teaching and sharing the roots and why the Reformation needs to continue.

The two day event highlighted two music concerts by Charlie Zahm, Towne Square, Highland Games, Boffer Wars, Dinner, vendor halls and a Historic Ball.

Here are some pictures:

Here we are on the left--Steve and I, with our sweet friends, Susie and Tony Shock. Notice my dress? That, my friends, is the handiwork of my talented 12 year old daughter Naomi. She made it just in three days and then after that made herself one! I was honored to wear her first costume ever!

A close up!

We stayed with the wonderfully loving Bandy family--the father is a deacon of the church there. I must say--they are the kindest and most hospitable church that I know of and the food they served was simply AMAZING! I'm telling you, I would love to become a member Providence Church just for all the yummy homemade food that they whip up! :) But I honestly can't begin to tell you how I love this church and the people there--so kind, welcoming, hard working and a close knit community with excellent teaching. What else could one ask for?

My boys and their friends just could not wait to begin the boffer wars so they began practicing in the parking lot with their good friend, Zeke!

Here are the boys outside lined up for battle---the boffer wars are a great fun, it's my favorite part of all the events and I love witnessing the boys attacking one another.

Here is some video of the Historic Ball--you might recognize a few faces!

(be sure to turn off the music in the sidebar before viewing)

Everyone had a grand time as you can see!

And here is a clip of Charlie Zahm in concert:

(don't forget to turn off the music in the sidebar again!)

Hope you enjoyed a glimpse into my weekend at the Reformation Day Faire!

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"I Am Woman Hear Me Roar"--The Feminist's Battlecry

Not long ago I taught a woman's Bible study on the topic of Deception and Discernment and wanted to share a bit of that with you:

One of the most infamous and well-known quotes of the century for woman:

"I am woman, hear me roar!"

The world has colorfully painted a picture of what women should look like in today's world. Images are splashed upon the trendy magazines with pictures of women in suits, holding briefcases in heels, dropping off their wee ones to daycare before the stop off at Starbucks for their daily hit of java. Celebrity magazines have their starlets portrayed as loud, scantily clad seductresses with instructional articles encouraging us how to dress and be like them--and who can ignore the mommy magazines that are shouting from the rooftops about how we can have it all.

But I am here to share with you that this is not true. It is lies. It is deception. It has taken me a life time to unlearn these very messages that have bombarded me as women since day one. Happiness and true success is not found in those pursuits, but is found in Christ alone. Instead of living up to this mentality of the "I am woman, hear me roar" generation,  the Christian woman needs to live exactly the opposite. In fact, what she needs to be living out is this:

"I am the Lords, and I come in meekness to exalt Him."

We cannot allow television to set the standard for us. Nor media, or culture or the feminist movement. Have you thought about what is making you discontent lately? There is probably a lie lurking deep inside somewhere. A lie we learned from the world  that we are believing and blindly and tearing down our precious homes in the process.

But we need to be sober because the days are evil. We are called to be sober-minded in Titus 2. We are to build up our homes and we can do that with proper, right thinking. Phillipians 4:8 reminds us...

"Finally, brothers, whatever is true, whatever is noble, whatever is right, whatever is pure, whatever is lovely, whatever is admirable—if anything is excellent or praiseworthy—think about such things."

Women are more easily deceived, so we must be on our guard. The first woman targeted in the Bible was Eve and that is still happening today. We are Eve's daughters, but we must not allow Satan to continue his lies with this generation, because we have learned our lesson.

There are many broken homes and relationships left in the aftermath of those lies today,

but with God we can restore the ruins and build on it the firm foundation

that is not rooted in false worldly philosophies

but from TRUTH found through Jesus Christ alone.

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Feminine Clothing for Lovely Daughters

It is so hard today to find beautiful clothing for our little girls. The mall is filled with clothing that is unfit for lovely young maidens being raised to love the Lord. Thankfully, there are still places where you can buy beautiful patterns to create your own beautiful dresses.

My sweet friend, Mrs. Jennie Chancey, of Sense & Sensibility Patterns has gone through great lengths to bring us gorgeous patterns fit for a princess--

The 1780's Portrait Dress Pattern! 

Here is the front---simply adorable!

And here it is in blue--a back view

Lovely maidens dressed for the ball...

These playful dresses were inspired by classic artwork such as seen above.

What young lady would not love to wear such sweet apparel? 

They are perfect for church, special occasion, tea party or just beautiful for any day!

If you are as smitten as I am with these dresses,
be sure to check out Mrs. Chancey's lovely, feminine and modest patterns at


Sense & Sensibility Patterns.

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The Health for Godly Generations Giveaway Winner Is...

The Health for Godly Generations Giveaway winner is....

Paula Ramm!

Congratulations!!! I will contact you by email with all the details.

Many thanks to all of you who entered, and if you didn't win this time around there will be more wonderful giveaways coming soon---so stay tuned!


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Quiet Your Heart Before The Lord

Be Still.

And Listen.

And Quiet your heart before the Lord today.

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To My Dear Readers...

I have been traveling all weekend but now I am back and have so much that I am looking forward to sharing with you! My family and I visited  The Reformation Day Faire hosted by Providence Church in Peoria, Illinois and as soon as we get a chance to settle back in and catch our breath I will share with you some of the wonderful things I have gleaned from there and some fun pictures. But in the meantime...

 I just wanted to let you know how I so highly value the time you, my dear readers, spend here visiting, commenting and contributing on A Wise Woman Builds Her Home. I have loved interacting with you over the past few years and getting to know you more. I honestly wish that I could personally connect with each and every single one of you--to invite you to my home and share personally with you over a cup of tea and just laugh over life and share our daily struggles. Since that is somewhat impossible, I have taken the effort to make a community for my readers whom are like-minded where they can connect and share, encourage and support one another outside of this blog. A Wise Woman Builds Her Home is on

Facebook

and now also on Twitter

You are welcome to follow us if you are not already and/or share the word with others you know might be interested! Not only will you get updated posts  the minute they are published but you will also get an extra exclusive tidbits of things that I don't publish here.

I also know that life is busy and  your time is precious...so I also invite you to subscribe and get free email updates conveniently sent to your inbox which is a huge time-saver for so many of my readers. Your email is not shared with anyone is kept confidential.

I also highly value your opinion, so if there are any topics that you would like to see more of here,  please leave a comment. Would you like to see more topics on homemaking, mothering, large family dynamics, Proverbs 31 teaching, how to raise sons,  link-ups or something I have not discussed here yet? Also, what do you think could be improved upon?

I would love to know your thoughts, please leave a comment....and thanks so much in advance!

And remember to keep your eyes focused on the Lord as you build up your sacred home this week!

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The Domestic Artist

I am happy to announce that I am going to start what I will call The Domestic Artist section on here on A Wise Woman Builds Her Home. This section will include all things homemaking, feature guest posts like the one we recently did from Miss Jen and do linkups and video while sharing valuable tips to encourage all woman in the forgotten arts of homemaking.

What I want you all to know though as we embark upon this wonderful journey is that this section will not be provided so that we will become discouraged in not having perfect, beautiful homes or perfect homemaking skills--it is here so we may learn from one another and apply our knowledge to richly enhance our own homes. We must understand that being a domestic artist is an entire life's journey--a progress in the making just like everything else.

True homes are made with love, centered with Christ and are focused upon the people that live there. We must be wise when we look to the world's definition of homes when we are bombarded by glossy images of perfect, immaculate homes with all the trendy furniture and latest decor. Those things are certainly nice and desirable but that is not what ultimately makes up a home. We need to keep a balance--striving for an orderly, peaceful and comfortable home but not falling prey to our desires for perfection or pressure from the outside world.

I like this quote Mrs. Chancey shared recently and I am sure many of you will share a sigh of relief upon reading it:

"Clutter is the poetry of our homes. It is an intimate view that is not always perfect--a few dishes in the sink, books piled next to the bed. Everything in its place may give a certain satisfaction, but a lived-in room exudes comfort and warmth." ~ Mary Randolph Carter  


And it also exudes that wonderful fact that a family lives there! This is how I want us to truly look at our homes. Imperfect but yet eternal artwork that is about to be unfolded. A wonderfully exciting place where hearts are knitted and everlasting memories are made. Homes that are lived in by real people!  My heart on this topic can be found here:

The True Test of Home-Making

I am looking forward to beginning this journey with you...

Now if you have any homemaking tips, recipes, skills, decor ideas, money helps, thoughts or just anything having to do with building your home you would like to share go ahead and linkup! We would love to hear and learn from you!

Pumpkin Pancakes...

It is fall time, ya'll! And you know that fall would not be complete without pumpkin pancakes! My sweet friend, Miss Jen, has an amazing pumpkin pancake recipe you won't want to miss:

Pancakes are always delightful~ awww…. but Pumpkin Pancakes are simply amazing.

This is a fun breakfast treat, perfect for mommies and daughters to make together.

{Scrumptious} Pumpkin Pancakes

1 1/4 cups All-Purpose flour
2-3 T. Sugar
2 tsp. Baking powder
1/2 tsp. Cinnamon
1/2 tsp. Ground Ginger
1/2 tsp. Salt
1/8 tsp. Nutmeg
A pinch of Ground Cloves
1 cup Milk
6 T. Pumpkin Puree
2 T. Melted Butter
1 Egg

~Delightful Additions~

Rich Pure Maple Syrup
and
Toasted or Candied Pecans

For a spiced breakfast treat, whisk all-purpose flour; sugar; baking powder;
cinnamon, ground ginger, and salt; nutmeg; and a pinch of ground cloves.

In a separate bowl, stir together milk, pumpkin puree, melted butter, and egg; fold mixture into dry ingredients.

Melt some butter in a skillet over medium heat; pour in 1/4 cup batter for each pancake.
Cook pancakes about 2-3 minutes per side; serve with butter and rich maple syrup.

Enjoy! ~ Makes 8 to 10.

Enjoy….. ♥

Always serve with Love!

Blessings~ Miss Jen

I want you all to welcome Miss Jen to A Wise Woman Builds Her Home! She will be sharing some of her wonderful recipes with us more in the future and I am absolutely sure you will just be thrilled to enjoy them! Here is a little more about this amazing young homemaker:

Miss Jen

Having just turned 19, Jen finds great joy in serving her family from home. She firmly believes that the home is a beautiful canvas for biblical hospitality, servanthood and discipleship.  All aspects of homemaking are on her list of interests including gourmet cooking, baking, calligraphy, sewing and embroidery. She is also inspired by photography, music, theology and biblical womanhood. Miss Jen blogs at Blessed Femina, which she founded in the fall of 2008 to document her blessed life as a daughter/homemaker-in- training and to encourage other women in Biblical femininity. Happily residing in sunny northern California with her parents, it is her greatest desire to live a life depicted in I Corinthians 10:31: “So whether you eat or drink or whatever you do, do it all for the glory of God.”

(This post and all information used was with permission by Miss Jen)

Health for Godly Generations Giveaway!

There are so many books out there today. There are good books and there are bad books but when you find an excellent book you want to share it with the world!

That is how I feel about Health for Godly Generations. I have read many books on nutrition in the past and even from a biblical perspective but I was very impressed with this book and I want to tell you why...

The author of the book, Miss Renee DeGroot, has a passion to see everyone living full, purposeful lives serving the Lord healthfully and abundantly . We cannot do so without understanding how nutrition, food and culture impacts the way we eat and live. The American diet is in a sorry state of decline and we are suffering as a nation for our poor choices!

Here is an excerpt:

"Caring for our bodies by feeding them what God created goes hand-in-hand with taking good care of nature. Often, food companies carelessly exploit what God created, just to hand the consumer a distorted product--distorted from the way God intended. As Christians, we need to take care of the earth, not because its resources are imagined to be steadily diminishing, but because the Lord commands us to take dominion. Proper dominion honor the sovereign Creator. God created all things well; we need to use the earth wisely and skillfully lest our sin destroy it further."

This book gives us an indepth and thorough look at the history of food through the present and does it eloquently through a wonderfully reformational perspective. Here's a peek of just some of the helpful and informative chapters:

Wise Physical Stewardship
For Pleasure and Sustenance
God's Sovereignty over Health
Humanism Addressed
Toward Multiple Generations
Meals for Family Culture
Surrounded by Pollution
Buying What We Believe
Macro-and Micronutrients
Charts for Comparison
Health-Conscious Shopping
Putting It into Practice

I highly recommend this book to all of my readers! This book will help you understand the poor and dangerous state of the foods that we consume on a daily basis and never think twice about that are making us sick. It offers wise and practical solutions for the every day wife, mother, and homemaker---and it just doesn't apply to them but it applies to EVERYONE! Health for Godly Generations is a timely eye opener to helping us all live a better, healthier and longer life!

Health for Godly Generations is currently having a  6% discount on this valuable book at Winepress Books using discount code 067605, which is good only for today, so be sure to visit and check it out.

Now for some FUN--I am so excited to share with you that Miss Renee Degroot is generously giving away her new book to one of my  dear readers! All you have to do is leave your name and your email (if you don't have a blog) to enter---so easy!

For extra entries:

-Share this giveaway on Facebook, Twitter or on your blog.  (2 entries, leave 2 comments)
-Visit the Health for  Godly Generations website and/or blog. (2 entries each, leave 2 comments each)
-Like them on Facebook.  (3 entries, leave 3 comments)
-Sign up for their newsletter. (3 entries, leave 3 comments)
-Buy a copy of Health for Godly Generations. (10 entries, leave 10 comments--makes a great Christmas gift, I might add!)

Hope you win!

Thank you, Miss Renee DeGroot!

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The Winner Is....

The winner of the Patriot's Club Almanac giveaway is...Tanya904!

Congratulations!!!!!  I will contact you today with all the details.

Also, I am still waiting to hear from the winner of the Scentsy Wickless Candles who was Claire Bellington-- please contact me as soon as possible or we will have to select a new winner.

A big thank you to those who entered and if you didn't get a chance to win this time around I have another great giveaway coming up VERY soon! Don't miss it!

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Encouragement for Mothers

Hello, my dear readers, it's a beautiful Monday morning here and I want to encourage you to start your week out being refreshed in His Word, strengthened in His power and encouraged by His spirit.

Know that all you do as a wife and mother is a ministry to the Lord. The cup that you fill, the meal that you make, the socks that you fold and the clothes that you mend. Every single and last bit of it is your kingdom work for Him and counts tremendously.

Here are some encouraging quotes on Motherhood for  you to remind  you of your might impact:

Being a full-time mother is one of the highest salaried jobs in my field, since the payment is pure love.  ~Mildred B. Vermont

I remember my mother's prayers and they have always followed me.  They have clung to me all my life.  ~Abraham Lincoln

The heart of a mother is a deep abyss at the bottom of which you will always find forgiveness.  ~Honoré de Balzac

An ounce of mother is worth a pound of clergy.  ~Spanish Proverb

 A mother is the truest friend we have, when trials heavy and sudden, fall upon us; when adversity takes the place of prosperity; when friends who rejoice with us in our sunshine desert us; when trouble thickens around us, still will she cling to us, and endeavor by her kind precepts and counsels to dissipate the clouds of darkness, and cause peace to return to our hearts.  ~Washington Irving

A little girl, asked where her home was, replied, "where mother is."  ~Keith L. Brooks

One good mother is worth a hundred schoolmasters.  ~George Herbert

I cannot forget my mother.  [S]he is my bridge.  When I needed to get across, she steadied herself long enough for me to run across safely.  ~Renita Weems

Mothers, ask the Lord for wisdom this week as you embark on it. Take each minute to truly relish every moment and try not to hurry through your day to cross off your self-made to do list. Don't be angry because your home is messy or cluttered but know that your family lives there and be thankful for that. Thank Him for everything because without Him you would not be alive.  Slow down and enjoy the many rich blessings the Lord has bestowed upon you and you will have a blessed day!

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 -Thanks for visiting A Wise Woman Builds Her Home! Are you encouraged by what read here? Now you can get free updates sent to your email by subscribing and never miss a post.

(Note: Not all listed sources are necessarily Christian or endorsed.)

Are You A Busybody?

Are you being a busy body?

Are you going to around prying into or meddling into the affairs of others?

We might think that in real life we never are, but how about when we blog or leave comments?

We need to be careful about going from blog to blog leaving unsolicited anonymous comments and meddling into affairs of that which we know nothing of. We need to NOT be busybodies. If you would not say what you wrote in person then do not leave it anonymously on someone's blog. Leaving a comment anonymously shows  that you did not even  have enough courage to put your name to it and also does not allow room for others to respond to you personally which is only right and the mature thing to do.

A godly person should be focused upon the things of the Lord. Helping their family and and minding their own business and doing the Lord's work. If you find yourself doing the opposite you need to reevaluate your priorities and focus. My prayer is that all of us---bloggers included, would be wise in how we act---online and off.

Remember that we are always accountable to God in all that we say, do and even what we blog and comment about. Let us always do all things with integrity knowing that we represent Him and will answer to Him one day.

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Every Good and Perfect Gift

Isn't he just adorable?!

The Simple Stencil offers beautiful stencils like the one pictured above and has many more inspirational quotes and Bible verses for every, and I mean EVERY room of your home to choose from! Go ahead and take a peek.

Not only that but The Simple Stencil  offers custom-made Bible verses that are so fun to create that you can make right on their site using your wall colors and all-- so pick your favorite verse and visit The Simple Stencil for a beautiful gift and a wonderful way to decorate your home!

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 -Would you like to see your product or company advertised on A Wise Woman Builds Her Home? Then click here for more information or contact me at wisewomanads@gmail.com

The Mark of a Foolish Woman

She is not satisfied with the mate God has provided…

Rather than looking to God to fulfill the deepest needs and longings of her heart,

she focuses on what she does not have and looks to others to meet those needs.

Rather than pouring her love, attention, and devotion upon her husband, 

she invests her heart, energy, and efforts in another man, other vain pursuits and material things.

Do not follow the path of the foolish woman!!!!

But learn steadily and faithfully the marks of a wise woman.

And your efforts will be blessed!

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 -Thanks for visiting A Wise Woman Builds Her Home! If you enjoy and are challenged by what you read here you can get free updates sent to your email by subscribing and never miss a post.

14 Marks of A Wise Woman

Today I am sharing 14 marks of a wise woman. She...

• Fears God, Proverbs 31:30.
• “Openeth her mouth with wisdom; and in her tongue is the law of kindness ,” Proverbs 31:26.
• Is content to be a “keeper at home,” Titus 2:5. (This doesn’t mean she never leaves her house, but her focus and the bulk of her attention is on her home and family.)
• Loves her husband and children, Titus 2:4.
• Is focused more on inward character than outward adornment, I Peter 3:3-4.
• Is modestly attired, I Timothy 2:9.
• Is trustworthy, Proverbs 31:11.
• Has a meek and quiet spirit, I Peter 3:4.
• Is industrious, Proverbs 31:13-27.
• Is giving, Proverbs 31:20, Luke 8:3.
• Is discreet, Titus 2:5. (“of a sound mind, sane, in one’s senses, curbing one’s desires and impulses, self-controlled, temperate,”)
• Is chaste, Titus 2:5.(“exciting reverence, venerable, sacred, pure; pure from carnality, chaste, modest; pure from every fault, immaculate; clean”).
• Builds up instead of tearing down, Proverbs 14:1, Ephesians 4:29.
• Is praiseworthy, Proverbs 31:28-31.

Do these marks describe you?

Now if someone asked your husband and children---would they wholeheartedly agree?

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-Thanks for visiting A Wise Woman Builds Her Home! If you like what you read here you can get free updates sent to your email by subscribing and never miss a post.

The Home of Our Childhood

There is music in the word Home.

To the old it brings a bewitching strain from the harp of memory,

to the middle aged it brings up happy thoughts,

while to the young it is a reminder of all that is near and dear to them.

Our hearts turn with unchangeable love and longing

to the dear old home which sheltered us in childhood.

Kind friends may beckon us to newer scenes,

and loving hearts may bind us fast to other pleasant homes;

but we love to return to the home of our childhood.

It may be old and rickety to the eyes of strangers;

the windows may have been broken and patched long ago,

and the floor worn through,

but it is still the old home from out of which we looked at life with hearts full of hope;

building castles which faded long ago.



-Gathered Jewels for the Home Circle, 1880



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 -Thanks for visiting A Wise Woman Builds Her Home! Do you enjoy what you read here? Then subscribe and get free updates sent to your email and never miss a post.

Exciting Patriot's Club Almanac Giveaway!

"It cannot be emphasized too strongly or too often that this great nation was founded not by religionists, but by Christians; not on religions, but on the gospel of Jesus Christ." -Patrick Henry

Here at A Wise Woman Builds Her Home, we strongly believe it is essential to raise up a new generation for the Lord in order to ensure multi-generational faithfulness from our progeny. We know it is critically important to raise godly seed that will take their stand in the day of testing and in order to not make future mistakes we must be knowledgeable of the past.

That's why I would like to introduce a new and exciting way to learn history, using Patriot's Club!

Mothers, if your history curriculum is not working for you, if you just want to add some spice to your school day or just would like an exciting new way to learn history then the Patriot's Club is for you!

Patriot's Club's goal is "to help prevent the triumph of evil by helping parents raise a new generation of True American Patriots. A new generation of young American Patriots who will stand up for Truth, a new generation of young American Patriots who will stand up for Freedom, and a new generation of young American Patriots who will honor God in all they do and say."

Patriot's Club is a convenient program designed for your children (ages 8 and up) to learn about history, through a series of step-by-step cards they print out online. They move up in rank as recruit, private, private first class, corporal , sergeant, and all the way up to patriot, as they complete each card! Cards include such tasks as memory verses, memory quotes, core value lessons, history quizzes (crosswords, word searches, fill in the blank), survival skills points and more. And the best part is the affordable price---a one time membership fee of only $12!

This is a great program for all--homeschoolers, parents with busy schedules and grandparents who would like to sit down and spend quality time with their grandchildren and for those of us who need help in knowing just where to begin teaching history in an exciting and fun way.

They ALSO are now offering a free weekly history challenge with a new and different prize every week!

Now for the FUN--Patriot's Club is generously offering to one of my readers a brand new copy of American Patriot's Almanac: Daily Readings on America as pictured below:

All you need to do to win this fabulous book is leave a comment with your email so we can contact you if you are the winner---it's that simple!

For extra entries:

-Share this giveaway on Facebook, Twitter and/or your blog. (2 entries each, leave 2 comments each)
-Visit Patriot's Club website. (3 entries, leave 3 comments)
-Follow Patriot's Club on Facebook. (4 entries, leave 4 comments)
-Join and become a member of Patriot's Club. (10 entries,  leave 10 comments)

Hope you win!

Thank you Patriot's Club!

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The Five Scariest Things You Can Do This Halloween

My recent post on Halloween including a video of it's origins entitled Should Christians Celebrate Halloween? was viewed by thousands of people and many convictions were shared! Thanks to all who shared great ideas to use this day for evangelism and opportunity as well.

I  recently stumbled upon an article on Facebook yesterday--it is an article by Doug Phillips, President of Vision Forum, entitled:

The Five Scariest Things You Can Do This Halloween

Hope you enjoy!




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The Giveaway Winners Are...

The giveaway winner for Apple Valley Natural Soap is...MaryMc!!!!

 and the giveaway winner for the Scentsy Wickless Candle system set is...Claire Bellington!!!

CONGRATULATIONS!!!  I will need both of you to contact me with you email information as soon as possible. Thank you! And for those of you who have not won yet, you will have another chance VERY soon.

I have a giveaway coming up later today! Stay tuned!

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Should Christians Celebrate Halloween?

It's that time of year again.

Halloween is right around the corner!

I used to celebrate decades ago--that is, until I watched a video on its origins that scared the daylights out of me. I had rented the video at Moody Bookstore as a new Christian when they had a video rental in there and was astonished to learn that there was more to Halloween that meets the eye.

I looked high and low to find that same video to show you but could not find it for the life of me--I also wanted to show it to my children--hopefully I will find it one day to share with them. But I did a little searching on YouTube to see if I could find something similar and thankfully came up with something close to it. It is not anywhere near the professional quality of the one I had seen but contained a similar message.

Now I warn you, reader, there are some images that are disturbing here so if you are under the age of 18 you must get permission to view this. Also, momma's if you are watching this be sure the little ones are not watching over your shoulder or nearby--I don't want them to get scared. I tried to find one that wasn't too scary but yet informative enough to share.

In the past we have used this day to pass out tracts with candy but not to participate in. But then when I had alot of little children they were afraid of the scary costumed trick-or-treaters with bloodstained faces so we stopped a few years back.  I know this is a touchy topic for many and is absolutely not meant to judge others (again, don't get me wrong) who do participate in it,  but to raise some awareness of the origins and share intelligent conversation on the matter. I was curious if you think that the church and Christians should not be participating in this as the creator of this video clearly feels.

 

Let me know what you think--I would love to hear your thoughts!



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Reader Asks About Facebook Campaign

A sweet reader recently wrote me and asked:

"...I have been thinking and praying about this current craze that has hit Facebook and ALOT of Christian woman/girls (and even some youth guys now) participating in the "I like it" purse comments... I am sorry but it sits wrong with me, as did the "bra color" campaign. I know a couple "Christian male perspectives" where given in January when the "bra" thing hit Facebook and they really were spoken with alot of sincerity about the need for awareness but that it does not glorify God when it is sexualized. I really would like to know if Steve has any insight or knows of anyone that does...would love to hear your thoughts as always.."

My personal thoughts? I think as Christian women we need to use discretion and we need to be wise. Having fun or raising awareness about breast cancer is not an issue--it is how we do it that we need to critically evaluate.

I, myself, saw the bra campaigns last year and was concerned. Do we not realize that we should be more careful about sharing private things?  I was encouraged to see many godly men, young and old, speak out as well and share their thoughts on it. I have to say, I felt a bit embarrassed that they even had to address this topic to women and other sisters-in-Christ.

I feel no different about the purse issue either--understanding that it is the same group behind it I was sad to see this going around Facebook again. Even though the question seems innocent---the answers seem suggestive. So I personally would not participate in that knowing the potential damage it could cause. I wouldn't want other men 'accidentally' thinking about me in wrong ways--especially through a Facebook update.

But am I surprised? No---I believe our culture has been so far removed from the teachings of modesty and discretion that many times we tend not think twice about these things. We wouldn't want our brothers to stumble (Romans 14:13) by reading updates about our favorite bra colors or where we "like it" (supposedly a purse). It instantly can conjure up images in the mind that can lead to sin.

Am I judging anyone? No. I, myself, need help in the issues of temptation so I am grateful when an older person speaks out on relevant issues. I cannot walk this Christian walk without the body of Christ helping to sharpen me (Proverbs 27:17) and grateful for guidance along the way because that is just what I am--IMPERFECT!

And as for my husband, Steve.....I  know he feels the same!

Those are my thoughts...hope my answer helps.

Have a blessed day as you seek to serve our Savior--the King!

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Daughters Who Walk With The Lord

I have three beautiful daughters whom I love and cherish.

Teaching my daughters homemaking skills is very important to me. I want them to know how to cook, clean, run and manage a home, care for children, love their husbands and so forth,  but nothing is more important to me than having them walk with the Lord.

There are many daughters out there doing wonderfully virtuous and industrious things, but of all these—if I am not teaching them to walk with the Lord, then I am not doing my job.

We must take the time to invest in and evaluate our daughters spiritual life.

Here are a couple of questions to ask yourself:

1. Does my daughter have a personal Bible time with the Lord?
2. Does my daughter have a prayer time outside of meals where she is praying to Him?
3. Is she engaging in learning more about Him, through Bible study, devotions, books, conversations, godly mentors, etc.
4. Does she seek Him in the course of every day life?
5. Am I modeling this example to my daughters?

It is too easy to measure our daughters by comparing them with other godly daughters that we see out there at church, online, or through friends. But that is an unfair comparison—each daughter will be different and possess different giftings–we should not try to make our daughters fit a preconceived mold or judge them because we think they are not living up to our expectations of what a daughter should be like. God has made them unique, they were beautifully and wonderfully made (Psalm 139:14), they were fashioned by the hands of their loving father our King,  and we should seek to illuminate that to the best of our abilities, not against it.

Yes, we want well-rounded daughters. We desire to raise accomplished daughters, but we cannot forget that our main goal is to raise godly daughters—daughters of the King who will be raised for His mighty purposes.

If we seek these things first, the good things, then the rest will follow.

“But seek first His kingdom and His righteousness, and all these things will be added to you.”

-Matthew 6:33

Have a blessed day as your turn your daughters hearts toward the King!

This post is being featured over at Raising Homemakers today.

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Lovely Fall Scentsy Wickless Candle Giveaway!

Homemaking is a beautiful thing. It is so exciting to be able to go about your day and create a beautiful, peaceful home for each and every single one of our family members. I know that one of the ways that I personally love to do that is by creating an ambiance in the home. I will turn on some low classical music or hymns, turn on some glowing lights and maybe light a candle or two.

As keepers of the home, wives "set the stage" for comfort and hospitality. Fragrance is a big part of this, and a lot of us light scented candles. However, because of the safety factor we limit candle time. But now all that can change-- let me introduce you to Scentsy! Scentsy uses a light bulb to melt  wax cubes in a small plate, making it much safer than an open flame. They also have 80 incredible scents from which to choose that makes a better selection than an air fresheners from the store!

Safety is one of the major benefits of this product. No burning means no smoke in the air. The fragrant wax is chosen because it melts at a lower temperature and won't burn a child if they were to stick their hand in it. The warmer itself feels like a coffee mug when it is hot.

 We got our warmer system kit in the mail and tried it out. I could not believe how wonderful they made my home smell! Fragrance is a powerful thing as it conjures up old memories and new--and with Scentsy you will be glad to know that these fragrances last a LONG time (even after you turn it off), and  is much better than your average candle! The great news  is that it is safer than candles and that is is important if you have lots of little ones like I do. I remember when I used to lament about not being able to use many candles but Scentsy really solves that dilemma. All you need to do is put a few blocks of wax on the top plate, turn it on and enjoy!

There are also small openings on the sides where the light can shine out of and reflect beautifully on the walls, the reflection on ours actually looked heart shaped. Our family likes to dim the light of the room to experience and enjoy the natural, calming ambiance that Scentsy creates.

Scentsy also carries holiday warmers, fragrance foams, room sprays, do-it-yourself kit warmers, Scentsy bars and bricks, and my favorite-the Scentsy Buddy--a stuffed animal for children containing one of Scentsy scents packs inside!

Now, Toni Swayze, who is an Independent Consultant for Scentsy has generously offered a free warmer system to one of my readers! That's right---take a look:

This warmer is just beautiful and oh-so cozy for decorating your home just right in time for fall!  It will also come with three amazing Scentsy bars--Maple Butter, Clarity and Eskimo Kiss that can be reused until the fragrance is gone. Now to enter this giveaway all you have to do is leave a comment and tell me what you like at Toni's Scentsy store. It's that simple!

(U.S participants only please)

(A glimpse of what Scentsy bars look like)

For extra entries:

-Share this fantastic giveaway on Facebook, Twitter or your blog. (2 entries each, leave 2 comments each)
-Sign up for the Scentsy newsletter. (3 entries, leave 3 comments)
-Like Scentsy on Facebook. (4 entries, leave 4 comments)
-Buy something from Toni's Scentsy store. (10 entries, leave 10 comments)

Hope you win!

Thank you, Toni, for introducing us to Scentsy!

***This giveaway is now closed!***

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-If you would like to advertise or have a giveaway on A Wise Woman Builds Her Home you can click here to find out how or email me at wisewomanads@gmail.com

The Tender-Hearted Mom

It is not uncommon to see a mother grab her child in anger in the grocery store or in the church. Even mothers who are normally easy going and tender-hearted can be exasperated beyond belief. Of course, they never have an excuse to sin before God and to sin against their child but they do need help. The older women are to lovingly hold them accountable to be kind and tender-hearted instead of mean and and hard-hearted. Another way the older women can help the younger women to love their children is to remind them to be wise like God.

"But the wisdom from above is first pure, then peaceable, gentle, reasonable, full of mercy and good fruits, unwavering, without hypocrisy. And the seed whose fruit is righteousness is sown in peace by those who make peace.         ( James 3:17-18, emphasis added)

..House rules are often a point of conflict between the children and mothers. They are certainly necessary but it is critical how they are enforced. Sometimes  young mothers become like marine drill sergeants at boot camp. As a result, the rules are enforced in a cruel and hard-hearted way through threats, screaming, yelling, and name calling. It may result in an outwardly compliant child who remembers to make their bed and take off their muddy shoes, but it is also likely to produce a child who is likewise cruel and hard in their heart. Gentleness and mercy are more important than external rules. 

Help the young mothers to be consistent with enforcing house rules but to do it in love.

If they must err, it should be on the side of mercy since "...mercy triumphs over judgment"

(James 2:13)

-Martha Peace, Becoming a Titus 2 Woman 

You can find this great book and other godly resources for the home at Books on the Path.




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A Sneak Peek...

I am so excited! I just saw the cover to the new Vision Forum catalog---take a look:

This new catalog Fight Hard & Hold Fast  will be out this month. It looks quite promising and will be chock full of delights and goodies to strengthen your personal walk and help you adequately disciple your families. Pictured below is the recent catalog in case you haven't had a chance to look at it yet. Just click on the banner below to open the catalog:

The holidays are around the corner and this is where I will probably invest much of my holiday shopping. Vision Forum has played an integral role of shaping our family  and many of the messages I have heard there in the past were simply LIFE CHANGING.

I highly recommend them to anyone who would like to take their walk, families and marriages to the next level!

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