Time-Warp Wife - Empowering Wives to Joyfully Serve

Friday Five! May 25th

noreply@blogger.com (Darlene Schacht) — Fri, 25 May 2012 02:49:00 +0000

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.

2. The Unveiled Wife - How Facebook Almost Destroyed My Marriage

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

noreply@blogger.com (Darlene Schacht) — Thu, 24 May 2012 07:13:00 +0000

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:

Recognize sin when you see it lurking. Don't toy with it.
Flee temptation as soon as you realize that you are being drawn away.
Study the Bible regularly so that you are equipped to destroy the lies with truth.
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.
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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31 Ways to Inspire Your Children

noreply@blogger.com (Darlene Schacht) — Wed, 23 May 2012 01:06:00 +0000

Choose your battles wisely ~ give patience where patience is due, and continually ask God for wisdom in discipline.
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
Give children age appropriate responsibilities teaching them to care for the things God gives us.
Each child is individual; pray that God will help you in developing that individual character.
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.
Set standards for your children as you teach them the importance of modest dress. They should represent themselves as holy and acceptable unto God.
Never forget to tell your children you’re proud of them. Don’t assume that they already know how you feel.
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.
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
Pray over your children while they are sleeping. With a heart like Hannah, give them over to God.
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…
Keep a running list of prayer requests and pray together as a family often.
Bible reading is a wonderful way to spend time together as a family. Make it a routine in your home.
Visit relatives often to show children the value of relationships.
Choose a character from the Bible and after reading the story together discuss how that message relates to your child today.
Give time to your children each day. The time you give makes the words you speak of more value to them.
Bring your children to church and help them seek out ways to get involved.
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.
Try counting the stars on a clear night to show your child how vast God’s creation is.
Laughter is medicine for the soul ~ laugh often with your children.
Smile often, and let kindness be a cloak you wear as an example to your children.
Don’t just tell your children that you love them ~ tell them what you love about them.
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
Take opportunities to give thanks by taking turns around the dinner table to express what you are thankful for.
Encourage praise reports and prayer requests on a regular basis.
Be an example to your children in the way that you love and honor your husband.
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.
Take opportunities to hug your children often, to hold their hands, or to rest an assuring hand on their shoulder.
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.
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."
Make it a habit to learn scripture together. Children learn best from example.

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

noreply@blogger.com (Darlene Schacht) — Tue, 22 May 2012 00:40:00 +0000

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!

noreply@blogger.com (Darlene Schacht) — Mon, 21 May 2012 08:43:00 +0000

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.

Click here to download the "To-Do Today" Printable

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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We Bumped Up the Flexi Clip Giveaway!

noreply@blogger.com (Darlene Schacht) — Fri, 18 May 2012 17:25:00 +0000

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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These Hands

noreply@blogger.com (Darlene Schacht) — Thu, 17 May 2012 04:51:00 +0000

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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Lilla Rose Review and a Giveaway!!

noreply@blogger.com (Darlene Schacht) — Wed, 16 May 2012 04:02:00 +0000

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

a Rafflecopter giveaway

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

Perogi Recipe

noreply@blogger.com (Darlene Schacht) — Tue, 15 May 2012 03:08:00 +0000

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

If you'd like to leave a comment, join in the conversation on facebook: Click here
Author of The Good Wife's Guide, now available in paperback.

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Why Marriage is Like a GPS

noreply@blogger.com (Darlene Schacht) — Mon, 14 May 2012 04:57:00 +0000

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...

In participation with:

Friday Five! May 10th

noreply@blogger.com (Darlene Schacht) — Fri, 11 May 2012 01:15:00 +0000

Here are five of my favorites from around the web!

1. Easy and Oh-So-Cute Nightgown Tutorial

Everyday Chaos says, "These are so easy, it's embarrassing."

I like easy, especially when easy is spelled a-d-o-r-a-b-l-e!

2. Re-Purpose Little Girls Jeans - Or Just Pretty Them Up for the Summer!

Tonya Staab offers and easy and creative way to dress up and old pair of jeans.

3. Tapestry of the Mundane - Where Do you Get Your Beauty Tips?

A post about inner beauty, the temptations we face, and the importance of teaching our daughters where true beauty lies. Read more... Tapestry of the Mundane

4. Good Morning Girls - Summer Session

There are a lot of new and exciting things happening over at Good Morning Girls. They are about to embark on a a 14-week series in the Proverbs 31 eBook! Click on the book cover image to get all of the details.

5. Hands Free Mama - How to Miss a Childhood

Hands free mama shares a post about how modern technology is robbing us of intentional time spent with our children.

That's it for this weeks pics. Hope you enjoyed them!

The Story of Ian and Larissa

noreply@blogger.com (Darlene Schacht) — Wed, 09 May 2012 18:42:00 +0000

I know that I just shared a video with you the other day, and I don't normally share two in one week, in fact I rarely post two in one month. But this video is too good to let it pass by without sharing it with you!!

Seriously, wow!

Thank you to Sarah of Joy-Filled Days for sharing it with me!

This is Ian and Larissa and this is their love story...

Email Subscribers: If you have trouble viewing this video, please click through to the website.

Ian and Larissa's blog: Pray for Ian

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

The Sensational Scent of Prayer - eBook Giveaway!

noreply@blogger.com (Darlene Schacht) — Wed, 09 May 2012 04:28:00 +0000

When Rachel Wojnarowski sent me an advance copy of her ebook The Sensational Scent of Prayer, I knew that I wouldn't be disappointed. I was right. I was already a fan of her writing through her blog, and this book is every bit as good!

What I like most about the eBook is that it's rooted in scripture--the story of Hannah to be exact. The Sensational Scent of Prayer reads like a story, while at the same time it offers you a biblical study on the topic of prayer. Rachel's use of imagery is vivid, bringing you back in time to a place where you are standing next to Hannah herself feeling the joy and the sorrow she felt.

Rachel also brings the reader into her own life where she relates the reader while offering practical application.

Another point to mention is that the foreword is written by a writer and fellow blogger that I admire, Karen Ehman of Proverbs 31 Ministries.

This is one book you'll want on your Kindle!

Want to win a copy? Rachel has offered four copies to readers of Time-Warp Wife!!

Enter through the Rafflecopter gadget below.

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You are loved by an almighty God,

Darlene

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Banana-Strawberry Ice Pops - And a Titus 2sday Linkup!

noreply@blogger.com (Darlene Schacht) — Tue, 08 May 2012 01:02:00 +0000

A recipe from my archives

While Maddy and I were out shopping we came across a box of frozen pop molds. Since it's been far too long since I've made them, I decided to buy a package and try them.

Looking at the variety of kits they had, I couldn't help but remember the days when my sister and I used to make them with nothing but a plastic cup and a metal spoon. We'd freeze Kool-Aid or orange juice--whatever we had, but as little kids we didn't venture to try anything else.

Today I ventured.

Using our fruit smoothie recipe, the kids and I made a batch of healthy "Banana-Strawberry Ice Pops." They are so easy to make, and so delicious I'll share the recipe with you:

Ingredients:

Banana

Strawberries

Pinapple

Red Grapes

Ice

about 1/2 cup of juice, skim milk, or yogurt

Unfortunately I don't measure, I just toss in whatever I like. Sometimes I'll even add seedless watermelon--yum!

Combine the fruit in the blender

Add ice. I get to put my ice on top, isn't that cool?

Blend until smooth and then pour into pop molds.

Note: Don't fill them to the top as the frozen mixture will expand.

Place pops into the freezer until solid,
and reward your workers with a cold drink!

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

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

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

Christ-Centered Relationships

noreply@blogger.com (Darlene Schacht) — Mon, 07 May 2012 03:43:00 +0000

I'm still writing up a storm over here, so blogging will slow down a bit for a short time. But I'll still be around.

Sonya from Becoming a Strong Woman of God shared this video the other day. It is a sermon by Francis and Lisa Chan on having a Christ-centered relationship. They bring up some points that aren't often addressed, and definitely helps to put things in perspective. I love their incredible wisdom!

It's almost an hour long, but it's so worth the time if you can put some aside.Francis Chan always is!

If you can't see this video, please click through to the website

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

Friday Five - & a Giveaway from Blessings Unlimited!

noreply@blogger.com (Darlene Schacht) — Fri, 04 May 2012 03:22:00 +0000

Here are a few of my favorites from around the web. Enjoy!

1. Blessings Unlimited

A few weeks ago, Marci Ferrell introduced me to the online store of "Blessings Unlimited." Immediately I was drawn to the "Grace & Gratitude" apron--isn't it adorable? The message, "A grateful soul is truly blessed," is scrolled just underneath the waistband. I love it! And guess what? She's sending me one!

Marci has also offered to give one of my readers an item from the store valued up to fifty dollars. If you'd like to enter the draw, see details below the image. And don't forget to click on the image as well to browse the store. I absolutely love the items they carry, and if you love decor that brings the message of faith into your home, you will love it too!

Visit Blessings Unlimited by Marci on Facebook.

Subscribers: Please note that the Rafflecopter gadget doesn't normally function well via email, so you will probably see some strange code below. Please click through to my blog to enter the giveaway.

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2. Sisters in Bloom

Sisters in Bloom is a group blog created for women who need other women. Their motto is "growing together... connecting hearts... creating community." Visit their site:

3. 35 Random Acts of Kindness You Can Do With Your Children

If you have kids, this post is a must read! How a mom spent her birthday doing 35 random acts of kindness with her two children. So cute!

4. Keepin' it Real

One of the things I like most about this blogger is that she's real. She's always faith-focused and at the same time she makes me laugh--constantly with her snarky remarks. Gina says, "I believe that is how God has led me to share. I am not a teacher. God is. I am a Child of God who desires to talk about and live life with others."

5. Organizing Your Master Bathroom - Good Housekeeping

When I think of "bathroom" I always think of cleaning, but rarely do I get in there and organize. For the most part it's probably because I never had any good ideas--until now. Good housekeeping offers five creative tips to getting the bathroom into ship shape.

P.S. When you get there, check out the use of the paper clip holder--too cute!

Free Printable!! Daily Chore Chart

noreply@blogger.com (Darlene Schacht) — Thu, 03 May 2012 07:08:00 +0000

I've wanted to create a chore chart for a while that works for both readers and their children. I decided not to fill in the description section because I know that we all have different routines. So the best thing for me to do was to leave the description area blank for you to fill in on your own.

I did however want to divide the chart into three sections: Morning, Afternoon, and Evening. I have one set of chores (or to-do's) for my children in the morning and a completely different set in the early evening, and then again a few more before bed, therefore having three sections allows us to organize the time nicely.

When I say "chores" I'm including routines that I like to write down for my kids--and you might too--like brushing their teeth, getting their homework together, putting their breakfast dishes in the sink, etc.

If you'd like to save paper, you can use one sheet for two weeks by putting two smaller X's under each day of the week.

Below is an image of the chore chart. If you'd like to print a full-sized copy, just click on the image or the link below it to access the PDF.

*Also available is a grey-scale version for those who want to save colored ink.

Click here to view and print a PDF copy of the chore chart

Click here for the grey-scale version of the same chart

If you like this, you might also check out my daily housekeeping schedule and printable.

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."

Free Printable - Daily Housekeeping Schedule

noreply@blogger.com (Darlene Schacht) — Wed, 02 May 2012 05:46:00 +0000

For those of you who follow my daily housekeeping schedule, I have created a free printable for your fridge or home-maintenance binder. This one is created at 200 dpi so that the image will be a clear and crisp print.

There isn't enough space on one page to put as detailed a schedule as the original schedule, but this one is good for those who want a quick reference.

Click the image below to view or print the high resolution image and you will be taken to the larger version of the PDF file. This is my gift to you for 2012. Enjoy!

(Below the image is also a link to a grayscale version of the image for those without color printers).

P.S. If you like this printable, please share the link with your friends. Thanks!

Click here for a grayscale version of the schedule

This letter came in as I was posting the schedule. Awesome!...

I am from a small town in British Columbia. I came across your blog through a mother-to-mother group on facebook. I was reading your blog and I stumbled apon your cleaning routine. At first I was taken back, but the more I read the more it seamed do able.

Well I tried your 53 steps to a cleaner bathroom and my bathroom looks great. I also washed the walls from top to bottom. My husband was very impressed.

I just wanted to let you know that your blog has helped me get a hold of my messy house and helped me feel proud of it. It's by no means perfect but that's life! I just felt the need to write you and let you know how much I apperciate your words of wisdom. My mother has told me many of the same things, but reading it in your blog sparked something inside me. I just thought I would share this with you.

Blessings

New Mother

On a Writing Break, Will Return Soon

noreply@blogger.com (Darlene Schacht) — Tue, 01 May 2012 17:44:00 +0000

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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Read The Good Wife's Guide: Embracing Your Role as a Help Meet

Printable Calendar for May

noreply@blogger.com (Darlene Schacht) — Tue, 01 May 2012 06:22:00 +0000

The printable calendar is ready for May! 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).

Printable Calendar for May 2012

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.

How to Build a Long-Lasting Yoke ~ And a Titus 2sday Link Up!

noreply@blogger.com (Darlene Schacht) — Tue, 01 May 2012 02:03:00 +0000

When he spends eight hours
tearing down and building a fence,
it’s like I do, too...
I just love the one flesh concept!
~ Ree, aka The Pioneer Woman

In Mark 10 verse nine, Jesus says, “What therefore God hath joined together, let not man put asunder.” The word "asunder" here means to divide or come between.

Certainly we understand that people shouldn’t come between a husband and wife, but do we stop to consider the gravity of the separations we cause? Any number of things can come between a husband and wife such as pride, selfishness, anger, lust, bitterness, deceit, and greed. When left to fester they further separate a man from the love of his wife.

God didn’t intend for married people to live as though they were still single, but rather that they would embrace the partnership of marriage which unites men and women as one.

And the two will become one flesh. So they are no longer two, but one flesh.. ~ Mark 10:8, NIV

Looking again at verse nine, we see the word “joined.” The Greek word for joined is syzeugnymi, meaning “to fasten to one yoke.”

In order to harness the power of oxen, farmers have been using wooden beams, known as yokes, to pair the oxen together. Not only does it give them twice the strength that one ox would, but it’s designed to keep the pair from going their separate ways.

How does one go about building this yoke?

“The oxen are going to be completely dependent on this piece of equipment throughout their work. If it breaks, it could endanger the people with the oxen and the oxen themselves. It will be under great stress when the oxen are full grown, weighing perhaps a ton each, and are pulling with all their strength on this yoke. So it is definitely worth the trouble to make it in the best possible way.” (International Society for Cow Protection)

In the same way the yoke that we have as a couple is an essential part of keeping our family together. That warning resonates with me, as I consider the potential pain we can cause should our yoke come apart. The minute that we let anyone or anything come between us, we are weakening that bond of unity that’s ordained by God.

So how do we avoid separation, and keep the unity in tact? We work to do this in a number of ways, all of which have to do with patience, understanding, kindness, and all things pertaining to Godly love.

Give up your pride and make the first move toward reconciliation, even if it feels like you’re always the one making peace. This doesn’t mean that you’re weak. Humility is a sign of strength.
Put away all selfishness and consider the desires of your family. Prioritize them over a desire to please yourself.
Control your anger. Every word that you say and every temper tantrum you have can be controlled. Choose your words and actions wisely.
Avoid lust at all costs. Don’t put yourself in a position where you are vulnerable to men or which you may cause them to lust.
Be willing to give up your time for family time. Of course it’s good to have both, but ensure that you keep a healthy balance, don’t let the scale tip.
Give up the desire to be lazy. If your house is messy tidy it up before sitting on the phone with a friend. If your idea of a healthy meal is a burger and fries, then take a little extra time to shop for wholesome ingredients so that you’re taking care of the physical needs of your family.

Remember, there are times when your yoke will come under great stress. So it’s definitely worth your trouble to build it in the best possible way!

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!

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The Virtue of Self-Control

noreply@blogger.com (Darlene Schacht) — Fri, 27 Apr 2012 06:13:00 +0000

When we think of virtuous women we often picture them as being loving, generous and kind; women who reach their hand out to the poor, lead their children in faith, and provide food for their family. What I tend to overlook when examining the lives of virtuous women is that they also exhibit a high level of self-control.

Reading Proverbs 31 with that in mind, I can't help but notice that, She riseth also while it is yet night, and giveth meat to her household. (v. 15).

I'm not a morning person so I can't begin to tell you just how impressed I am with that! I'm sure if I was sitting down to have tea with her I'd ask, "What? You get up at what time?!"

Getting up is one thing, but what we're really talking about here is the virtue of self-control. We're all a work-in-progress as we strive to put will over want. Whether it be appetite, over-spending, laziness or losing our temper, we all benefit when we exercise the virtue of self-control.

For this very reason, make every effort to add to your faith goodness; and to goodness, knowledge; and to knowledge, self-control; and to self-control, perseverance; and to perseverance, godliness; and to godliness, mutual affection; and to mutual affection, love. ~ 2 Peter 1:5-7, NIV

Notice that word in the verse above? Effort. I have good intentions, in fact if good intentions were one dollar bills I'd be a bazillionaire, but I have to say that intentions haven't been enough to make a difference in my life. If we want to kick up our lives a notch, we must be willing to put in the effort to exercise self-control.

If you value a clean home, do the leg work it takes to get there. If you value your faith, then nurture that faith by opening your Bible more often and taking time out to pray. If you value your marriage, actively work on your relationship.

Whatever it is that you're struggling with, make every effort to be self-controlled. That's when you'll notice results!

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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Visit me at The Better Mom where I'm sharing an article called, "Chivalry is Not Dead--Yet!"

Ezer Kenegdo - A Help Meet

noreply@blogger.com (Darlene Schacht) — Wed, 25 Apr 2012 06:28:00 +0000

As many of you know, the title of my book is The Good Wife's Guide: Embracing Your Role as a Help Meet. A few readers have kindly approached me to point out that the subtitle might have a typo.

"Shouldn't the word be help mate?" They ask. And as much as I like the word "mate," the answer is "no." It's actually not a typo it's a biblical term found in Genesis chapter two:

"And the LORD God said, It is not good that the man should be alone; I will make him an help meet for him." ~ Genesis 2:18, KJV

So what exactly is a help meet? She is his "ezer kenegdo."

Looking to the Hebrew text we see the word `ezer (Strong's H5828) which means, a helper or an aid and the second part of the word "meet" is 'kenegdo,' meaning suitable.

What's interesting to note is that the same word is found several times throughout the Old Testament when describing God as our helper.

Ye that fear the LORD, trust in the LORD: he [is] their help and their shield. ~ Psalm 115:11

But the incredibly interesting part about this is that in nearly every reference where this term is used, God is coming to the rescue where He protects His people and defeats the enemy.

Reading these passages I couldn't help but wonder if my purpose in being a help meet ran deeper than merely doing the dishes and folding his socks. Could it be that my purpose is to fight alongside my husband in battle? To pray for him, to encourage him in his walk of faith and to exemplify a strong faith of my own?

Don't get me wrong, Titus 2 calls me to encourage you to be a good keeper of your home, so don't put down the Swiffer Duster just yet! But being a good keeper of the home includes watching over the affairs of your family--in other words "guarding the castle from attack."

What I'm suggesting here is that we make a conscious effort to nurture our husbands spiritually through prayer and edification.

Suit up for battle by putting on the armor of God, so that you will be equipped to not only help him, but to help your children in their time of need.

The complete armor of God is found in Ephesians chapter six (and I hope you take time to read it) but here are two of the verses that particularly stand out to me as I consider the ways in which our families come under attack.

Above all, taking the shield of faith, wherewith ye shall be able to quench all the fiery darts of the wicked. (v.16)

Our husbands, our children, and we ourselves are constantly faced with negative messages. When we are standing strong in faith, we are prepared to quench each and every one with wisdom and strength from the Lord. This is why it's so important that we stand guard over our heart and those that we love.

Praying always with all prayer and supplication in the Spirit, and watching thereunto with all perseverance and supplication for all saints; (v.18)

Love is a Gift - Not a Swap of Emotions - And a Titus 2sday Linkup!

noreply@blogger.com (Darlene Schacht) — Tue, 24 Apr 2012 05:26:00 +0000

My marriage is wonderful, and my husband is incredible, but let me also say that our relationship isn’t perfect—it takes work. There have been some rough patches and some days when he didn't seem all that "wonderful" to me, and I will venture to guess that he's felt the same way.

Love is like an oak tree that, when nurtured and watered, takes root. We have storms that leave us feeling confused and miserable, but we put effort into seeing them through, because both Michael and I know that with each passing season those roots are growing beyond what our senses observe.

Like most young couples, we started out eager yet unprepared. I was a young bride believing that love was give and take, and that a 50/50 partnership was ideal. As long as I was willing to meet Michael halfway on everything, we’d be just fine. But experience soon taught me that unless I was willing to give 100 percent of myself to this marriage, without expectation of return, my gift of love was little more than a swap of emotions.

Love is a gift, and if we hand over a gift with one hand open while the other is closed, the gift is lost in exchange. Marriage isn’t a barter system, and love isn’t a currency.

It’s exercising patience when your husband’s habits are grating on every one of your nerves
It’s kindness when your partner is grumpy
It’s being humble enough to lose an argument when you feel that you’re right
It’s holding your temper when he says something in anger
It’s protecting his reputation from your own tongue
It’s trusting in his capabilities to handle a difficult task
It’s standing strong in difficult times

The question then would be, Why are we planting seeds without an expectation of return?

The answer is because we aren't planting them for the sake of our husbands or for ourselves, we plant them for the sake of our Lord who loved us before we loved Him, and who gave His life freely while we were yet sinners. Love like that doesn't carry an expectation, but it does carry a hope.

Sow your seed in the morning, and at evening let your hands not be idle, for you do not know which will succeed, whether this or that, or whether both will do equally well.~ Ecclesiastes 11:6, NIV

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,

When We're Not Getting the Attention We Need

noreply@blogger.com (Darlene Schacht) — Mon, 23 Apr 2012 03:44:00 +0000

Drawn from my archives
Like most other women I recognize love when my husbands pays attention to me. I love it when Michael walks through the door and straight into my arms. He does that every single day of the week. I also like it when he kisses me on the cheek and tucks me in before heading off to work in the wee hours of the morning. It’s his way of expressing his love.

If you’re not getting the desired attention you need from your husband, it’s likely that you’ll search out other ways to fill that space. Some women take to shopping thinking that more “things” will bring them peace. Others spend countless hours socializing on the net, or filling their face with food, and for some the unfortunate alternative is finding another man.

Each one is tempted when, by his own evil desire, he is dragged away and enticed. Then, after desire has conceived, it gives birth to sin; and sin, when it is full-grown, gives birth to death. ~ James 1:14-15, (NIV)

That is a strong verse, but when we consider that only 63% of American children grow up with both biological parents¹, it’s time to seek out a cure for this epidemic.

Remember the story of the Samaritan woman who came to draw water? It’s found in John chapter 4. While the disciples were out grocery shopping (yeah, they were grocery shopping—check it out), Jesus met a woman at the well, and asked her for a drink. He knew that this particular woman had a void inside her that led her to thirst for something more in her life. It moved her to return to the same proverbial well time and again hoping to fill her pain with something that would last—something that would quench her thirst, until finally He came offering an everlasting well of hope.

It’s possible that this void resulted in failed marriages time and again, since we know she had five. One can only guess, but we do know that the same Spirit of life in Christ Jesus is there for us too.

Earthly things can fill the void for a moment, maybe even a few years, but when we are quenched by the Spirit of comfort we’re satisfied from within. When one experiences a spiritual satisfaction there’s no longer a need return to the well time and again.

A bad marriage can feel like a spiritual vacuum at times, since weak relationships create that constant need to be filled. That’s a great thing when you enter into a deeper relationship with Christ. Not such a good thing when we run into the arms of another man.

We’re complicated beings, aren’t we? The simple solution is to replace our wants with His (more of you, Lord—less of me), and in doing so we enrich our marriage. Because God has ordained wives to be ministers in our home, the love of God becomes a strong foundation on which to rebuild.

It’s one thing to stick to a marriage because you feel that it’s your duty as a wife and mother, but it’s an entirely better thing when we purpose to add virtue to our lives.

Flee the evil desires of youth, and pursue righteousness, faith, love and peace, along with those who call on the Lord out of a pure heart. ~ 2 Timothy 2:22, (NIV)

A noble woman is an attractive force, ladies. I know it, you know it, and so do our husbands. Put God first in your life, seek righteousness in all that you do, and let He who offers an everlasting well of hope become your all-in all!

¹National Marriage Project at Rutgers University.

You are loved by an almighty God,

Darlene

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