Healing Hearts with Helping Hands

Sometimes I just don't know what to do or say.  I'm socially awkward.  Especially around death or around people that are grieving.  It is something that I'm working on, as I want to be a blessing to those around me.

As usual, Lorrie Flem, helps me out.

As usual, Lorrie doesn't just give us vague notions of how to be a blessing.  This book is FULL of ideas to help us help others during their time of deepest need.  She gives us the words to write, the words to say, the actions to take. 

Since food can be such a blessing at this time, some of Lorrie's focus (but not ALL) is on how to take food, what food to take, AND she includes recipes for several easy to serve items that should be universal hits. 

The ideas in this book are very useful in a variety of other situations as well; new baby, sick family member, etc.  I loved the ideas for care packages that can be made for friends that are going to the hospital to help family members or for treatments themselves. 

Lorrie ends this book with scripture to reinforce our desires to bless others.  I just can't say enough good things about this resource.  I feel more confident in my ability to help others now :)

This book is available now at Eternal Encouragement for $3.50, or as a Kindle download from Amazon for $3.99.  However, May 1-3 it will be available from Amazon for $0.99!  So be patient and get it then :)  And don't forget that you don't have to actually have a kindle to read kindle books (I have a kindle yet still read mostly from my Droid phone).  If you need more information about that, you can read HERE.

Need more encouragement or know someone else who does?  You can get Lorrie's Eternal Encouragement magazine for free!!!!!

***I received this product for free in exchange for a fair review as part of the Gabby Moms review program.***

Chores: Many Hands Make Light Work AND a Giveaway

Housework

Nobody likes it.  I mean really?  Maybe you enjoy it, but I don't.  Over the years I have learned that it is a necessary evil and I have come to enjoy the routine of it and the order that is the result......I will never love scrubbing the toliets or bathtubs or cleaning up little people's rooms.  I don't do it perfectly.  I probably don't even do it well but I do the best I can with what I have.  I have come to accept that my best is enough.

Part of housework, or maybe home management, is chores.  Chores are the housework done by little people.  Oh, how I struggled the first few years to get my older 2 children to do chores.  I finally resorted to paying them.  Now that they are older they do better.  Now I am training the little ones. 

This month I was asked to review Chores: Many Hands Make Light of the Work for the May review as part of the Gabby Moms blogging program.  This isn't a book or an audio.  It is a bundle.....4 audios and 6 e-books, all pertaining to the topic of chores.  Chores for you and chores for your children.  How to get chores done.  How to encourage others to do their chores.  Efficient ways to get things done.  Lorrie also discusses the Biblical basis behind chores and our attitudes regarding work.

Here is a list of everything that is included in this bundle:
Audios:
God Blesses This House, but He Doesn't Clean It
God Blesses This House, but He Doesn't Organize It
12 Super Simple Time Saving Tips
Cheerful Children and Challenging Chores

E-books:
Neat and Tidy, Tried and True Organization Tips
Turn Housework Into Fun and Games
Teach Your Kids How to Clean a Kitchen
Teach Your Kids How to Clean a Bathroom
Keep it Clean and Toxin Free
DIY Cleaning Supplies

All this is available from www.eternalencouragment.com for $24.97

Tidbits that I took away from this bundle:
**We are blessed that we need help - God has blessed us abundantly with our home, possessions and family!
**Give children guidelines BEFORE they start
**Make every minute of the day count
**I LOVE the marble chore reward method.....I guess you will have to get the bundle to see what I am talking about :)

NOW.......I have a giveaway for you :)  YOU can get a copy of this bundle for yourself.  To enter go HERE and leave a comment before May 31st and one winner will be selected and notified via email.

I received this product as part of the Gabby Moms review program in exchange for an honest and fair review.

12 Super Simple Time Saving Tips for Moms

Have you been reading along with me lately?  If you have, I'm sure you have noticed that I've been a bit frazzled.  I guess I forgot how crazy life was with 2 littles.....and then add in the activities and needs of 2 teenagers!  I am catching myself as I run in circles.  lol  I needed a little encouragement this week (did you read Hacked?????)

Anyway, this is what I've been listening to:

Let me start off by saying that I am eternally grateful to the inventor of mp3.  I WISH had I time to sit down and read a book (I keep adding things to my poor kindle).  Right NOW, I don't.  So I loved that this was something that I could listen to while doing other things.....like cleaning up lipstick (but I digress).

I have read ALL the organizing, home management books out there (before the babies were born, when I still had time to read).  I have gleaned a few good tidbits here and there that managed to stick.  Listening to Lorrie, however, made me believe that I COULD figure this whole thing out.  She doesn't demand that I do things her way.  She doesn't give me a one-size-fits-all schedule.  She encourages me to make my priorities my priorities and keep my eyes on the prize. 

I especially appreciated her encouragement to do the little things first.  I hate how I have a million things that need done and most of them take less than 5 minutes.  But there they sit on my to-do list, waiting for me.  I do find that my days go much more nicely when I spend the first 15 minutes doing those little jobs.  THEN I can tackle a bigger job.  AND I feel like I have done something, even if those 15 minutes are the only things that get marked off. 

I also appreciate Lorrie's reminder to take things as they come.  My priorities for my day need to revolve around my God, my husband and my children.  That might mean that I get the laundry done, bless hubby with his favorite supper and cookies and do lots of reading/game playing with the babies.  If that's all that gets done, I have had a banner day!  My priorities were my priorities, and in the end that is what matters each day.  This is a season.  In a few years there won't be any more lipstick episodes or stories to read. 

Thank you Lorrie for reminding me of that!

Let Lorrie share her heart with you!  You can get 12 Super Simple Time Saving Tips for Moms at Eternal Encouragment.com for $6.97 and can start listening right away!  Trust me, you will be glad that you did.

***I received this product for free in exchange for a fair review as part of the Gabby Moms program.***

A Little Bit of Sunshine on a Busy Day

Hi guys! (or girls....probably girls lol)  I could apologize, again, for the length of time between blog posts, but honestly....here's the deal......I'm a wife and mommy first.  I stay pretty busy (gasp!  but you are a stay-at-home-mom, we all know they don't do much!) homeschooling Greg and occassionally Bear, trying to maintain order in a house full of children, love and read to Abby......I have meals to prepare and laundry to wash and homework to grade or help with.  All the normal wife and mother stuff.  I also work outside of our home 2 days a week.  If I have any free time I love to knit, sew, read and write.  Honestly though, the writing tends to be at the bottom of the list.  I LOVE to write, but for me writing requires quiet.....and that just doesn't happen here. Today happens to be a semi-quiet day :)

I read all the time.  For me reading doesn't require quiet.  I have the ability to tune the kids out sometimes :)  I love little encouraging articles that I can read in a minute or 5 and take something from to apply to my current situation.  You may wonder what magazine I prefer.....it isn't a magazine (well, I do love the magazine, but this is quicker).....it is the Eternal Encouragment e-newsletter written and produced by Lorrie Flem. 

I jotted down some of January's topics (the newsletter comes to your email box every Thursday):
**I can do all things.......let God do what I can't (I needed this, I tend to think that I can do EVERYTHING - but that's probably another blog post)
**Stick-to-it-Ness.....interruptions happen, how to embrace them and keep things moving in your life
**Are you missing God's treasures......an encouragement to read and study the Old Testament stories and characters
**Happiness......happiness is a journey not a destination
**recipes....hamburger bun pizza, chicken divan
**coupons for Lorrie's products......you don't want to miss the great stuff Lorrie has in her shop.  Take a gander around here for a while for more reviews of Lorrie's stuff.  I LOVE Lorrie's stuff :)

I know you are waiting for the most important part........its FREE!  Yes, free.  Not a free trial.  Not a free 6 month subscription.  FREE.  As in, get your fingers clicking, what are you waiting for, FREE.  Got it?  So what are you waiting for?  When you subscribe you will get a free ebook Organizing Happiness and on Thursday you will get a newsletter directly to your email box.  Go HERE and scroll about halfway down the page to sign up. 

Love ya all and hope that you have a wonderful weekend!

******I received this newsletter for free and you can too :)  This review is an honest opinion of my thoughts as part of the Gabby Moms review program.

2011 Gabby Moms Program - A Year in Review

As most of you know by now, I have been a member of the Eternal Encouragement Gabby Moms program during the pilot year, 2011.  I thought I would share a little about my experience and share what I have learned throughout the past year...........

I came to The Gabby Moms program as a "seasoned reviewer".  I've been reviewing homeschool products for TEACH magazine (now Eternal Encouragment) for years.  I was also a member of the 1st year TOS Homeschool Crew and still occassionally do reviews for The Old Schoolhouse Magazine.  I also review books through the Blogging for Books program (as you can tell I LOVE to read and learn).  With all that "experience" under my belt, I have to say that The Gabby Moms program has been the most encouraging group of ladies that I have ever worked with.  The products were GREAT, however, I was most blessed by the group of encouraging ladies that I could be in instant contact with (through email and facebook).  I spoke with Cindy and Lorrie Flem via telephone over the last year and came away encouraged, refreshed and ready to give another day a good shot.

The products that Lorrie offers through Eternal Encouragement are encouraging, down in the trenches products.  Lorrie doesn't speak of lofty objectives or philosophical theories.  She writes or talks about mothering, being a wife, managing a home and speaks as one that has done these things and has experience about how to be the best wife and mother that you can be.  I can honestly say that I have been blessed by every single product that I have received and that God, in His timing, always managed to send the product that I most needed at that time.  This program has never been a burden because I was reading/listening/reviewing something that was directly applicable to MY life.  What a blessing!!!!!

So, that's my experience as part of the 2011 Gabby Moms program.  I am so thankful to be able to say that I will be a part of the 2012 Gabby Moms program as well.  Please come back and look forward with me for what Lorrie has to share with us in the upcoming year :) 

Welcome Home, Daddy

Ever since I was a little girl, I have loved to get mail.  Now, as an adult, it is mainly bills or mundane things but I still encourage my boys to go down to the mailbox and get the mail for me.  I love catalogs, letter and freebies that I request.  I was "extra blessed" last week to recieve this in the mail:

Welcome Home, Daddy by Lorrie Flem is my Gabby Moms review product for October.  Available at Eternal Encouragement for $17.97, this book is packed with ways to make your home special.  I thought that this quote from chapter 12 summed up the whole book fairly well:

Life without the hope of eternal life is like dinner with only food.  By focusing on the objective of eating, without any regard for the other things that make it so much better, we miss something wonderful. (Lorrie Flem)

Lorrie encourages women in so many different ways in this book......mealtime, child training, prayer life, family devotion, family celebrations, family ministry, hospitality, encouraging our husbands......she touches on EVERYTHING that a wife or mother deals with on a daily basis.  Going further than just "doing what we should", Lorrie wants us to do all the little things that make life special and make memories with our families.

I have highlighted in my copy many things that I am going to go back and ponder on and try to implement in my family.  Here are some of the things you will find:

Since we are each allotted the same amount of time, the differences are in how we spend it, what we choose to spend it on, and what we have to show for our time investment.  Even though God never gives us more than 24 hours in a day, we can certainly choose how we spend the hours He does give us.  (Lorrie Flem, chapter 4)

As the mother, we have the distinct honor and responsibility of setting the tone of our home. (Lorrie Flem, chapter 3)

No matter what you may be waiting on God for, it can seem like He takes a very long time.  We have to realize that if we have a spirit of resistance, we really can't wait properly.  We often don't understand that God is in the waiting.  He is waiting alongside us.  That is a wonderful, calming, and quieting principle in our lives.  (Lorrie Flem, chapter 9)

This is a wonderful book for new wives, older mothers and everyone in between.  If you want to see what others have said about it, be sure to check out The Gabby Moms website or www.eternalencouragement.com.

Also, would YOU like to be a Gabby Mom?  You can sign up for the 2012 group HERE

***I received this book free for a fair and honest review as part of the Gabby Moms review program. ***

The 5 R's Bundle - Part 2

Last month I talked to you about Lorrie Flem's bundle - Godly Womanhood: The 5 R's for Homeschool Moms.  Last month I detailed the 1st 2 topics and this month I am going to focus on the last 3 topics. 

As usual, Lorrie touches my heart at just the right time.  In fact, I have decided that I will be printing out all 5 ebooks and putting them in a binder for safe keeping.  The topics are so encouraging, timely and necessary for a godly woman.

Refine: From Homekeeping 101 to Graduating with Honors leads us through the day-to-day of being a manager of our homes.  We are managers aren't we?  I like that.....a manager.....that sounds good :)  Lorrie leads us through 7 homekeeping teachings:

1.  Plan to Manage

2.  Plan to Improve

3.  Plan to Start Strong

4.  Plan to Do It First

5.  Plan to Bless Others

6.  Plan to Feed

7.  Plan to Clean

As always, Lorrie keeps it real and gives real-life guidance on managing our homes.  Spending time with God, Before Breakfast Jobs and clearing clutter are all topics she touches on before bringing it around to my ATTITUDE.  We've talked about that before and it is a work in progress.  Thanks Lorrie!

Rejuvenate: What to Do When Abel is Raising Cain details the topic of child-raising.  Consistency is the key!  Lorrie talks about how the Bible discusses discipline.  I think I am going to start a study about that.......

Never leaving us alone, Lorrie gives real-life examples about how she handles discipline problems in her home.

Rest: Give It Up and Get It All wasn't what I expected.  I was "hoping" that Lorrie would give a list of things that she does when she needs some rest, away time, preferably once a week or more.  I wanted the validation that what I do deserves a break and could someone please back me up on that?!?!?!  I guess not :(  Lorrie gives us so much more though.  I feel encouraged to rest through serving, arranging my priorities to match God's.  I need to lean on God and when I just can't do it anymore, I shouldn't soak in a hot bathtub, I should run to Him and soak Him up....seeking His wonderful wisdom about the things that I am dealing with.  I've done that this week and I can honestly say that I feel better than I ever would after an hour at Starbucks.  **I LOVE Starbucks though and think it is a fanastic treat to hang out there, but I don't "deserve" such a treat just because .  The only thing that can completely restore me is time with God!**

I can't begin to express how much good stuff there was in these 5 topics.  I plan to reread these teachings frequently to remind me to keep my focus on God!  Check out www.eternalencouragement.com to see The 5 R's Bundle (5 ebooks, 5 mp3 audios starting at $24.97) and other great products that Lorrie has there.  If you're not convinced head over and see what the other Gabby Moms have to say too!

****I received this product for free in exchange for an honest review through the Gabby Moms program.***

Godly Womanhood: 5 R's for Godly Womanhood

I've been saying all along that God has been working through this Gabby Moms program to teach and encourage me this last year.  (YOU can share in this teaching, encouragement and sharing also....more on that later)  Just 3 weeks ago, I was searching the internet for Bible study helps.  2 days later I opened Godly Womanhood: 5 R's for Godly Womanhood; a bundle of great products from Lorrie Flem.

The first topic that Lorrie covers is Refresh: A Woman Who Kneels Before the Throne Can Stand Before Anyone.  Timely, eh?    In listening to this audio (also featuring Cindy Rushton) or reading the ebook you will be introduced to the Pregnant BBs and the Pregnant M&Ms......Bible Reading, Bible Study, Memorization, Meditation and Prayer (just read/listen and you will get it!). 

Lorrie doesn't just tell you to DO it....she tells you HOW she does it.  A busy homeschool mom of many, Lorrie give advice and suggestions for when to have quiet time, how to have quiet time and the benefits of doing so. 

Lorrie's advice has really impacted my quiet time.  I found her suggestions practical and was so blessed by her many "this is how I do it" tips.  I NEED to hear how others do it.  Maybe you aren't like me, but if you are, you will love this - Lorrie even shares the scent of her table side candle :)

The 2nd topic that Lorrie tackles is ReKindle: Red Hot is So Cool.  I have to say that this was the most indepth, tactful discussion of marriage and intimacy that I have ever heard/read.  Gleaning from God's word, Lorrie explains the role of a wife and gives practical advice for pretty much all the problems that could possibly come up in that area.  Let me say that a little effort in this area can go a LONG way :)  I couldn't agree more when Lorrie said that sometimes you have to act first and the attitude/desire will come later.

Now, there are 3 more topics in this bundle!!!!!! We will tackle them next month.  I can't wait to share them with you.  If you can't wait to hear more, the 5 R's bundle is available HERE for $24.97.

Have you been blessed by my Gabby Mom reviews?  I hope that you have been blessed just as much as I have been blessed by the products.  Lorrie has a HUGE vision for Godly Womanhood and I feel privileged to be able to learn from her.  If you would also like the opportunity to recieve great products for FREE in return for your honest review (by blog, facebook, twitter, etc), Lorrie would love to have you join the Gabby Mom program.  There is an application process that can get you started HERE.

If you would like to learn more about Lorrie Flem and Eternal Encouragement Magazine, check them out at www.eternalencouragement.com  Want more info about The Gabby Moms?  Head on over to www.thegabbymoms.com  and see what others have to say about this product and others that Lorrie has shared with us. 

***I received this product in return for an honest review from the Gabby Moms program***

Attitude Counts

You know how I like to keep it real here, don't ya? 

I've had a bad attitude all week.  Last week anyway.  If you follow along on my little blog or facebook, you know that the last 2 weeks have been miserable.  I always thought that after a while I would be immune to emotional attacks, but every one hurts just as much as the one before (and when they come in quick succession it is worse!). 

In retaliation, I've pulled away.  Away from my wonderful husband, away from my adorable children, my church family and friends and away from my sphere, my home.  I've been grouchy. (Why shouldn't I, everything is terrible!)  I've neglected the house. (Who cares, the kids make it messy and nobody wants to help me clean it up.  Nobody wants to buy it anyway!)  I've neglected my children.  (They don't care if they eat junk and watch TV all day, so why should I?)  And my darling husband. (Why isn't he doing something about this????)

See?  Nasty, terrible, horrible attitude.  As I'm sure you've read in previous posts, I do realize that I have much to be thankful for.  I try to see joy in all my trials.  Sometimes my attitude gets the better of me though.  I'm working on it....always working on it.

I sometimes think that Lorrie and God must talk about me.  It always seems that she has just the right words of encouragement just when I need it (and since I got this product several weeks ago, she must be able to see in the future too! - just joking :))
I've been listening to 2 mp3s lately;   12 Keys to a Queenly Castle and Attitude Adjustments.  Lorrie doesn't mince words.  She is adament (and she is correct!) that my attitude is MY choice.  I have learned over the last year that I can't control what other people do but I can control how I respond - I CAN control my attitude - about everything!  My circumstances don't control me.  Although I may not be able to actively change them at this time I CAN control my attitudes and actions regarding those circumstances.

In 12 Keys to a Queenly Castle Lorrie reminds me of my God-given role, my sphere of influence and the mandate that God has given me to raise, teach and train my children.  She begins by reminding me to treat my husband as a king deserves to be treated (whether I think he deserves it or not! - mine does :)).  Then she moves on to my home, my children and showing hospitality.

Attitude Adjustments uses the alphabet to give 26 "reminders" about how I have the ability to change my attitude, how God wants my attitude to be and the rewards of a joyful attitude (and obedience to God). 

These are great Mp3s!  They are available at Eternal Encouragement starting at $6.95 (and are available as a hard CD also). 

Even better, Lorrie has offered to bless a reader of a Gabby Moms blog with a FREE Mp3!

To enter:
1. Go to EE link to choose MP3 file they want to win
2. Go to The Gabby Moms blog where June's review links are posted and comment
a. which blog they read about the giveaway (Miss Carie at Living, Loving and Learning with the Lord!)
b. name of MP3 file they want if chosen as winner
c. email contact info
3. Winner will be chosen on Saturday, June 18th via random.org.
4. Winner will be notified by email to contact info left in comments
5. Winner will have 48 hours to respond to claim prize or an alternate winner will be chosen

You control your attitude, don't let your attitude control you, your family and your home!

***I received these items for an honest review from the Gabby Moms program.

To Have and To Hold

I remember my wedding day perfectly.  So full of expectation and promise.

Our marriage got off to a rocky start.  I knew that my husband-to-be was the one, even though we had only dated 3 months before he proposed.  My parents hated him.  Therefore, they refused to support or help with our wedding.  I laugh when I see the wedding statistics on TV......we spent less than $500 total on our wedding.  I had a beautiful dress ($100 on clearance at the bridal boutique), my soon to be sister in law was my maid of honor and her dress cost $25 (also on clearance at the bridal boutique).  A flower girl dress that matched perfectly was found at a resale shop and 3 tuxedos were rented ($50 a piece).  $50 for a simple cake, a few dollars for serving silverware and toasting glasses. Norman's aunt did my flowers.  I had wrote every single wedding invitation and we didn't have a dinner or dance.  We were married on a beautiful 60 degree January day 3 months after Norman proposed. 

Once our wedding was over, I breathed a sigh of relief.  There.  It was over.  No more dealing with my angry parents, trying to iron out the details of a wedding at 18 alone.  No more hoping, wishing, planning and praying.  We were married and could start our lives together.

I wish it had been that easy.  My husband had ongoing medical problems that ended up with a visit to a heart specialist and heart cath in Springfield.  He lost his job due to missing work while hospitalized.  We lived with his mother (now that I am older and wiser I can say she was a saint for tolerating me!).  We argued, we fought and there were some days I wondered if we would ever make it.

The next few years were much of the same, except we added a beautiful baby boy to the mix.  We would go for months without any problems at all and then BAM, we would seem to have way more than our fair share of problems.  I am ashamed to say that our marriage was on the brink of destruction and most of it was probably due to my poor attitude.

I began studying biblical womanhood, and God's design for marriage.  I prayed, a lot.  God changed me.  I am by no means perfect, but it always warms my heart when I hear my wonderful husband say, "We don't every really fight."  We do disagree occassionally but are wise enough now to work it out.  Patience is a virtue in marriage :) 

Anyway, I say all this to introduce you to Lorrie Flem's marriage bundle, To Have and To Hold.

This bundle contains:

Audios

• 5R's Session 2 - Rekindle
• One Life to Live, One Man to Love

• E-Books
  • Loving Your Knight in Shining Armor Even When He Doesn't Shine
  • Roadmap to a Marvelous Marriage
  • Marriage Tidbits to Treasure
  • Quotes Not Quibbles
  • Marriage Report

• E-Booklet
  • 31 Daily Biblical Prayers for Wives to Pray for Their Husbands
  • Encouragement Report
  • Don't Settle 
  • SHIMLY
  • What God Says about Marriage
  • 75 Inexpensive Romantic Rut
  • It Happened One Afternoon

• Magazine Back Issues
  • 2001 Summer Issue TEACH Magazine "Loving Your Husband"
  • 2009 Spring Issue TEACH Magazine "Marriages Made Marvelous"

This is a $100 value and can be purchased from Eternal Encouragement starting at $39.95.


I wish that I had this 16 years ago!  I suppose this is the information that was passed from mother to daughter 100 years ago, but since that is very rarely the case now, I am so glad that Lorrie was willing to come alongside so many of us and show us the way marriage really should (and CAN) be!


And if you STILL haven't ordered your subscription to Eternal Encouragement Magazine, you will notice that there are 2 back issues of TEACH included in your bundle price.  Even being married so many years (LOL) I learned so many things about my attitude and they way I could be handling things that I hadn't thought of before. 


Remember the only person you can change in your marriage is YOU!  Sometimes that is all it takes.  Stop by http://www.eternalencouragement.com/ for more information.  If you want to hear more, head on over to Gabby Moms to see what other wives have to say as well.


***I received this product for free in exchange for an honest review from Gabby Moms and Eternal Encouragement Magazine.***

Eternal Encouragement Magazine

Meet Lorrie Flem, Head Mama of Eternal Encouragment Magazine.  I'm sure you've heard me talking about her before.  See what she's reading?

And here is the newest issue (Spring 2011) of Eternal Encouragment Magazine You've heard me talk about TEACH Magazine before haven't you?  I think I mentioned that they have a new name - Eternal Encouragment.  Let me share a little of Lorrie's heart about why she changed the name.....

"It all started with a note from a friend suggesting that I think about changing the name of the magazine so that all women would realize this magazine was for them, and not just for homemakers and moms.  After much time with the Lord, He led me to understand that just like TEACH had never been about homeschooling, neither was it about homemaking.  I was drop-jaw stunned! Yet I realized it was true - of course it's true - this IS God we're talking about.  So then, what were we about?  He instantly brought my own words to me: looking more like Jesus every day.  We are a magazine all about encouraging.  Encouraging marriages and mothering, homemaking and homeschooling, child training and cooking, and all other aspects of a women's life.  In short, we are about godly encouragment!"

Doesn't that just sound wonderful?  I can't begin to express to you how much TEACH magazine and now Eternal Encouragement magazine has impacted my life.

Wednesday I had to take my dear little Sadie to have her hair done (groomed).  While I waited I went to Starbucks for a treat, sat in a comfy armchair there and soaked up the spring 2011 issue of Eternal Encouragment magazine.  Some of the articles that challenged me the most where:

• Are You Contagious?
• Do You Want to be Your Daughter's Best Friend?
• No Matter What Time It is, God is Still God
• Be a Grace Dispenser

This is just a small sampling of the current articles.  Just a little dab of the encouragement that YOU can receive in your mailbox. 

Although the encouragment has remained the same, the size has changed.  Eternal Encouragment is smaller, 5x7 ish size that fits perfectly in your purse or Bible case. I love the new size!

If you want to see what others are saying about Eternal Encouragment Magazine, head on over to the Gabby Moms and see how Lorrie has blessed other women, just like you!  When you decide that you need some of this encouragement as well, head on over to http://www.eternalencouragement.com/ and check it out.  A one year subscription starts at $25.97 (4 issues as year). 

"I received this product for honest review from Eternal Encouragement Magazine as a part of The Gabby Moms blogging program. All opinions expressed are solely my own."

Need a Shot?

What do you think of when you hear the word shot?

A painful shot in the arm or elsewhere???  Keep in mind that this shot is full of healing medicine......

Or how about this -

What about a shot of coffee early in the morning?  Does that give you just the boost of energy you need to get going for the day?

How about a shot of help, encouragement or experience?  I want that!

Today, I want to introduce you to the Encouragement Membership Program.  Doesn't that sound helpful?  Developed by Lorrie Flem of Eternal Encouragment Magazine, this program was created to help you!  Each month, a subscriber to this program will receive a "Super Shot"; 4 products (audio, video or textual) that Lorrie has created to help you dig deeply into a problem or concern that you might be having.  By focusing on that one area for a short period of time, you can learn what God's will is for you in that area and learn from His leading and direction.....Lorrie just guides the way!

I had the wonderful opportunity to check out A Super Shot of Preventing Parenting Pits.  Let's just say, Oh My!  I was momentarily overwhelmed by all the great information this bundle contained.  I plugged along though and was so surprised to be learning so much; and my children were too!  Just wait till you hear the CRIJ rhyme for kids :) 

Each Super Shot contains 4 products that are exclusive to THIS program.  Nothing that you have seen before from Lorrie!  The videos are similar to the Chick Flicks for Moms but longer, more like a mini workshop.  The Super Shot I reviewed also contains a new book by Lorrie, Consistency, Consistency, Consistency.  Now remember, each month you get a different Super Shot, with 4 products each and the cost is only $7.97 a month!  Can you believe it?  I couldn't, but it is true :) AND if you subscribe to the Encouragement Membership Program before April 1, 2011 (when the site goes live) your price will only be $6.97 a month for the lifetime of you membership (NO FOOLING!). 

As I said, the site doesn't go live until April 1st so make sure to keep checking back at http://www.eternalencouragment.com/ and HERE for all the latest news and information.  This will be both healthy and energizing for you :)


***I received this product free as part of The Gabby Moms review program :)

Encouraging Moments Newsletter

During the wiping, washing, sweeping, cleaning, folding, diapering, reading, loving and living sometimes I just need a break.  If it is Thursday, I look for Encouraging Moments Newsletter. 

You have heard me rant on and on over the years about TEACH magazine, right?  And you read the post about the new name, Eternal Encouragement?  Well, Lorrie has more for you!  Each Thursday Lorrie will send Encouraging Moments Newsletter to your email box FREE.  Yes, I said FREE.

Encouraging Moments is short but packed FULL of all kinds of goodies to encourage a mother's heart.  The issue I just finished reading discussed spiritual strongholds.  As always, Lorrie turns to God's Word to guide, direct and encourage.  

Also, Lorrie is on Facebook (who isn't????).  Tidbits from the weeks facebook discussion are available, as well as a link to Lorrie's facebook page. 

Upcoming dates to me Lorrie LIVE are listed as well.  Be sure to check and see if she is in your area - you don't want to miss it!  That is my dream!!!!!!!

Possibly the coolest thing in the newsletter is Chick Flicks for Mom.

During a quiet moment in your day, you can sit down and listen to Lorrie talk from her heart.  Honestly, these "flicks" are just like sitting at the kitchen table with Lorrie.  You can even submit questions or topics that you would like Lorrie to discuss and she will try to cover them in the future.  I think this is the best use of YouTube so far!  Lorrie covers all the bases with topics including homemaking, mommy-hood and marriage.

In case all the above isn't enough, a Timely Tip article from another reader is included.  I was encouraged this week by the testimonal about getting out of debt from Annie Herrick.  And finally, there is a link to subscribe to Eternal Encouragment Magazine (in case you haven't done so already - what are you waiting for???)

Subscribing to this FREE resource is soooo easy.....just go to http://www.homemakingwithteach.com/ and look for the box in the right hand corner.  It just takes seconds and the benefits are very worth it.

Also, head on over to http://www.thegabbymoms.com/ to see what others are saying about this wonderful resource.

****“I am reviewing Encouraging Moments as an official member of The Gabby Moms blogging program for Eternal Encouragement magazine.  I did not receive compensation for this post and all opinions are solely my own.



True Treasures: 10 Years of TEACH Magazine

As most of you know, I've been in a dark place lately.  A couple of weeks ago, my wonderful husband recognized that I needed a break and sent me to town with some "mad" money to hang out by myself.  I grabbed a book before I left......True Treasures:  10 Years of TEACH Magazine by Lorrie Flem.  Once in town, I went straight to Starbucks, ordered a large Caramel Macchiato and sank down in a huge armchair with my book.  I only made it 2 pages before tears were flowing down my cheeks. 

Homemakers know that staying home all day is hard work.  I realize that the rest of the world believes that we are all sitting around eating chocolate and watching soap operas (I do eat chocolate, but not all day.  I do not watch soap operas, wouldn't even if I did have time).  Each day I am mom, wife, cleaning lady, teacher, pretend doctor, bottle holder, diaper changer, remote control wielder, laundry washer/dryer/folder/putter-awayer, train track builder.....the list goes on and on.  While doing all those things, I am giving advice, prayfully answering questions, kissing real booboos and giving pieces of my heart to everyone I meet.  So much goes out of me every day.....it is like "the force" is leaving my body.  God's love is the force and I am thankful that I am here to administer His grace, mercy and love to those around me....but sometimes I get empty.  Sometimes I get so dry that I can't soak up God's word on my own.  I need a human touch.  Frequently, TEACH magazine and Lorrie Flem have been that human touch.  Lorrie and those that share with her, use real life experience and God's words to encourage and lead those of us who are seeking back to godly womanhood.

True Treasures is the BEST of the first 10 years of TEACH magazine.  The articles are laid out on 2 page spreads; short little tidbits to help even the busiest of wife/mother.  She has divided the articles into sections so that you can quickly find the encouragement you are looking for.  Parenting, marriage, mothering, homemaking and serving others are all addressed.  I honestly believe that it would be impossible to come away from this book without having received encouragement.

True Treasures is available for $19.97 at http://www.homemakingwithteach.com/ .  While you are there, check out the other wonderful resources that Lorrie offers.  Also, please note that TEACH Magazine is changing names.  It is the same wonderful resource, with a more fitting name I believe.......Eternal Encouragement Magazine.  Use coupon code GabbyMoms to get $4 off True Treasures :)

If you want to read what others think about this wonderful publication, feel free to check out The Gabby Moms to see other reviews written by homemakers just like you!

***Disclaimer: I received this product for honest review from TEACH magazine as part of The Gabby Moms blogging program.  All opinions expressed are solely my own.

Lots Going On

As usual, there has been a lot going on here.  I suppose I can quit saying that when I am dead.  Anyway, I am very thankful to have been HOME a lot this winter.  I have kept the "running" to a minimum and stayed in the house.  Some of that was due to the depression that I have been under, some a conscious decision that I have made. 

I remember when I was a new mom, early in our marriage.....I hated to stay home.  I would find excuses to go anywhere....shopping, my mom's, the park, a friend's....sometimes we would just drive around aimlessly.  In the evenings we would drive to town, eat fast food and wander walmart.  It seemed so lonely and depressing at home. 

I realize now that some of that was due to my attitude.  Some of it was due to marital and financial problems we were having at the time.  Some was due to depression.  Some was due to my laziness....I didn't want to clean, cook or "deal" with these babies.  If I wasn't home, then the problem could be ignored for the most part. 

God placed many wonderful, godly people (mostly women) in my life around the time that Greg was born.  I can honestly say that their guidance helped keep our marriage together, introduced me to homeschooling and brought my heart back around to my home and family.  God is good!  I wish many days that I had learned more during that first year of marriage, when we didn't have children.  I wish that I hadn't wasted so many years when I could have made better memories for my children.  BUT, I praise God every day that I am where I am now.  I can understand some of the struggles others are having and no matter how "bad" things get, I know that God is here, He is working, ever present in my life and family.  He has brought us a long way so I know that nothing is too big for Him to handle.

One of the godly women that was placed in my path was Mrs Lorrie Flem, editor of TEACH magazine.  TEACH isn't a magazine about homeschooling, but about mothering, godly womanhood and homemaking.  An occasional article about homeschooling will be found in it's pages, as homeschooling is a big part of mentoring in our children's lives. 

I can't hardly believe that TEACH has been publishing for 10 years!  I must have found Lorrie early on, but it still doesn't seem like it has been that long :)  Please, if you are looking for godly encouragment on your role as wife, mother, and woman of God, check out TEACH.....their magazine has a new name....Eternal Encouragement.  I think that is fitting, as Lorrie gives encouragement about the things that have eternal implications in your life, my life and the lives of our families.  Anyway, I will be reviewing True Treasures: 10 Years of TEACH magazine later this week.  Please come back and see what this wonderful publication has to offer YOU!

A Gabby Mom

Just a heads up (to anyone that cares) - I have been selected as a Gabby Mom for 2011 by TEACH magazine.  I will be given products of interest to homeschoolers/homemakers/moms to check out, use and the reviews will be posted here on my blog.  I should be receiving my first item soon so keep an eye out to see what I've been up to. 

And if you don't know about Lorrie Flem or TEACH magazine, you can see what all the fuss is about HERE.  Lorrie has some of the most outstanding homemaking products/articles/advice I have ever heard.  This is great stuff and I know that you will be thankful that you checked it out.