Day Eight
But who can find a faithful man? (Prov. 20:6b)
How are you doing with the "30-Day Encouragement Challenge"? In case you've forgotten, here's the challenge:
 You can't say anything negative about your husband  . . . to your husband . . . or to anyone else, about  your husband.
 Say something that you admire or appreciate about your husband . . . to your husband . . . and to someone else, about your husband!


Faithfulness is a wonderful but rare quality today, especially in regard to marriage. Do you understand how important this quality is? Your challenge is to continue to root out all negative speaking, and plant seeds of encouragement instead. You may be amazed at what will grow. Contemporary culture often entices men to be  unfaithful to their wedding vows and spiritual commitments. Appreciate your husband's faithfulness—how he  is loyal to you. Let him know that you are glad he has "stick-to-it-iveness" in your marriage. Appreciate his faithfulness to God. (If you have an unfaithful husband, this is a difficult area for you. Pray, speak the truth in love, remain faithful yourself, and discover ways to encourage faithfulness in your mate. The Bible says that husbands may "be won by the conduct of their wives" [1 Pet. 3:1]. You may also want to seek counsel from a mature, godly individual or couple.)

                                                                                                                                                                   
Day Nine
Be swift to hear, slow to speak. (James 1:19b)

We are often so busy speaking that we don't take time to listen. We are so quick to offer a comment— negative or positive—that we don't really "hear" our husband's heart. Remember: we have two ears and only  one mouth. We need to listen more! As you continue in your 30-day challenge, not speaking negatively and focusing on positive encouragement, hear the Lord's admonition today: "Be swift to hear." If listening is a real problem for you, play a game with yourself. See if you can listen to your husband for one whole day, only speaking when asked a question. If your husband notices the difference, explain that you are learning to listen more—not only to God, but also to him. One easy way to express admiration for your husband is to ask a question about something he enjoys, and then listen to his response. If it's an area of personal familiarity, keep asking questions until you learn something you didn't know, then tell him, "Wow, I didn't know that!"

                                                                                                                                                                   
Day Ten
Behold you are handsome, my beloved! Yes, pleasant! (Song of Solomon 1:16a)

We all crave appreciation. We want to know that we are valued and loved. Early love letters probably reflected our admiration, but if we're not careful, our spouse will forget why we were drawn to him. If you still have any of your old love letters, re-read them for clues to deepen your current level of appreciation for your spouse. When we spend time criticizing our husbands, we lose time that could be spent admiring them. As you consider various ways to encourage your husband, ask, "How can I admire him?" Does your husband know that you think he is attractive? What was one of the characteristics in your husband that first drew you to him? Was it a physical characteristic, or something else? Was it his gentle, compassionate eyes? Kindness or concern for others? An easy-going confidence? A steadiness that comes from trusting in the Lord? Strength of character in a culture that lacks integrity? Do you see at least a glimpse of that characteristic in him today? Whatever it is, tell him!

                                                                                                                                                                  
Day Eleven
Wives, submit to your own husbands, as to the Lord. (Eph. 5:22)


Women who are constantly negative toward their husbands—especially by speaking evil of them to others—show great disrespect. Determine not to do that today (or ever!). This challenge to encourage is closely connected to submission. Men respond to women who respect them. What do you respect about your  husband? Part of that respect includes submission to his authority. Let your husband know how respecting him makes it easier to submit to his leadership. Show your respect in public by listening to him and smiling at him when he speaks. Place your hand in his as you walk together. If you feel there is nothing to respect, search harder . . . nearly every man has some core characteristic that can be nurtured and respected. In any case, you must still cultivate a submissive spirit to his position of leadership "as to the Lord."

                                                                                                                                                                  
Day Twelve
With all lowliness and gentleness, with longsuffering, bearing with one another in love. (Eph. 4:2)

Part of the difficulty you may face as you continue in this 30-day challenge to encourage your husband is that you really are struggling to find positive things to praise. Perhaps the problem is not with your husband. Have you checked your own heart? Sometimes we get disillusioned because of our own unreasonable or unrealistic expectations (Prov. 13:12). It may not be that our mates are doing something wrong; it's simply that we  expect too much in some areas. Our expectations must be met in God alone, and then we will have the right  perspective to ask God for the healing and grace we need to respond to others. How sad that we give more grace to others than to those in our own homes. Today, try to look at your husband through eyes of grace.  Verbally thank your husband for what he is already doing.

                                                                                                                                                                  
Day Thirteen
I am my beloved's, and his desire is toward me. (Song of Solomon 7:10)


The sexual relationship. It's one of those elements—along with money and children—that can derail a marriage through negative comments. Negativity destroys intimacy, but encouragement builds and strengthens the marriage bond. Let's get practical here. Is your husband a "good lover?" Have you told him so? Be specific. Let him know when he pleases you. Most husbands genuinely want to please their wives, especially in this important area of marriage. In moments of intimacy, do you find your mind wandering? This can change as you focus on something wonderful about your husband. Realize that your husband wants intimacy with you . . . his desire is toward you. Does this area of your marriage need some work? Remember that this is a sensitive area for men. Be sure to encourage his lovemaking and masculinity in positive ways.

                                                                                                                                                                  
Day Fourteen
The righteous man walks in his integrity. (Prov. 20:7a)

Every week there are news reports about men who gave in to temptations and compromised what they said they believed. We hear countless reports about dishonest business dealings, hidden infidelity, and hypocritical leaders. It's so easy to focus on these things and ignore those who are being honest, faithful and genuine. As you continue in the "30-Day Encouragement Challenge," determine to look for ways that your husband stands against the culture. Is your spouse a man of integrity? Is he fair in his dealings with people? Does he understand the meaning of justice? Is he honest in business? Unhypocritical in his faith? Consider all the ways a man can live in integrity, and praise your husband for one of them. As you have the opportunity—as it is appropriate—share examples of your husband's honesty and integrity with others.

                                                                                                                                                                 
Day Fifteen
Grow in the grace and knowledge of our Lord and Savior Jesus Christ.  (2 Pet. 3:18a)

Sometimes we live so close to our spouse that we fail to see him as others do; we only see our husband's faults. But take a step back. Perhaps he is growing spiritually in ways you have failed to appreciate. How can you encourage his growth in a fresh, new way? Remember, your husband is accountable to God for his spiritual development. You are accountable to God to encourage and not hinder that growth. Can you identify an area of spiritual strength in your husband? Does he pray or read his Bible regularly? Does he like to read about or discuss spiritual matters? Does he go to church with you? Is he a spiritual leader? What do others say about him? If you can identify a specific area, praise him for that. If not, pray earnestly that God will work in his heart, and watch for signs of spiritual growth in the future.

                                                                                                                                                                  
Day Sixteen
And the LORD God said, “It is not good that man should be alone; I will make him a helper comparable to him.” (Gen. 2:18)


God says that it is not good for man to be alone. But the way some women criticize their mates, the husbands may long for solitude. Be careful today not to criticize your mate, but look for ways to encourage him personally and publicly. Speaking of communication, does your husband communicate with you? God has made you a companion and helper for your husband, and part of being "one flesh" with him is the privilege of sharing and discussing personal needs and concerns. Thank God for that wonderful gift. Thank your husband for communicating with you. If your spouse does not communicate as you wish, look for ways that he communicates that are normal for him: smiling at you, nodding his head, even a pleasant grunt, and then thank him for letting you know that he cares. Perhaps he needs to be lovingly taught how to communicate. Be patient with him . . . and listen when he does speak.

                                                                                                                                                                  
Day Seventeen
The fear of the LORD is the beginning of wisdom, and the knowledge of the Holy One
is understanding. (Prov. 9:10)
Are you a wise woman? Do you open your mouth with wisdom, as Proverbs 31:26 suggests? As you continue in your 30-day challenge, remember that a wise woman encourages her husband. Is your husband a "wise man?" Does he have a godly perspective that comes from knowing God and walking with Him in obedience? Does he have a sense of purpose for his life and vision for your home? Tell him how much this means to you. If you are not sure about your husband's vision for your home, ask him, "Honey, what do you want to accomplish with our marriage and home in the years to come?" and "How can I help you accomplish that?" If he does not have a vision, your questions may inspire him to develop one. If your husband is not walking with God—or perhaps, does not know the Lord—you have the opportunity and responsibility to practice your faith and create a thirst for God. Thank God for giving your husband a place in his heart that only He can fill, and keep praying that he will turn to the Lord to fill that vacuum!

                                                                                                                                                                   
Day Eighteen
You will show me the path of life. In your presence is fullness of joy . . . Happy are the people whose God is the LORD! (Ps. 16:11a; 144:15b)
A merry heart does good like medicine. (Prov. 17:22a)


It's hard to criticize others when we are enjoying their company. Instead of speaking negatively to your husband today, enjoy him! Encourage him! As you experience fullness of joy with God, share some of that joy with your husband. Does your husband have a playful side? A great sense of humor? Is there a "little boy" that wants to escape from time to time, reflecting the joy in his heart? This is a wonderful part of who he is, and a great strength. Let him know that you appreciate his joyfulness and his playful spirit. Find opportunities to join him in positive play times. If your husband can sometimes be overly serious, coax him out occasionally for some play times. It will help him relieve stress and relax.

                                                                                                                                                                   
Day Nineteen
Read a wife's description of her beloved in Song of Solomon 5:10-16.


Criticism leaves scars; but encouragement can bring healing. Remember that today as you focus on your "30-Day Encouragement Challenge." Almost nothing is as devastating to a man as the belief that his wife finds him repulsive. Sadly, many women unwisely criticize their husbands' bodies. Have you ever considered how wonderfully God designed men and women? No matter how a man looks—by the standards of the world—a loving God designed them all, and they are all "beautiful" in His sight. Encourage your husband today by praising his uniqueness. As you look over your husband's body, from the tip of his toes to his bald or bushy head, thank God that your husband is "wonderfully made," then admire your husband verbally. (Strong arms? Hairy chest? Firm hands? Big feet? Rugged chin? Wide shoulders? Compassionate eyes? Broad smile?)

                                                                                                                                                                   
Day Twenty
And be kind one to another, tenderhearted, forgiving one another, just as God in Christ also forgave you. (Eph. 4:32)


It's time for some heart examination. As you continue in this 30-day challenge, have you found any roots of bitterness that are contaminating your relationship with your husband? Do you understand that as long as you are unwilling to forgive your husband—by God's grace and in His power—you will not be able to encourage him? Your own resentment will keep getting in the way. Now is the time to deal with any unforgiving attitudes. Forgive him, even as God has forgiven you. Is your husband a forgiving man? Does he keep short accounts of our problems? Express your thankfulness for such a man. Does your husband seem to harbor grudges against you? If so, could there be things you need to change? Do you possibly need to ask forgiveness for an offense?

October Challenge

We start our new challenge tomorrow, the 30 Day Husband Encouragement Challenge. Thank you to Revive Our Hearts for the idea and the notes below.


                                                                                                                                                                
Day One
The heart of her husband safely trusts her; so he will have no lack of gain. She does him good and not evil all the days of her life. (Prov. 31:11-12) 

To refresh your memory, here's the 30-Day Encouragement Challenge for the next 30 days:
 You can't say anything negative about your husband  . . . to your husband . . . or to anyone else, about your husband.
 Say something that you admire or appreciate about your husband . . . to your husband . . . and to someone else, about your husband!
To help you get started, have you ever thanked your husband for choosing you above all other women? He found you attractive as a person, and appreciated you. Though many circumstances in your marriage may have changed, let your husband know that you are glad God led you together, and that you want to be a blessing to him for the rest of your marriage. Let him know that he can trust you to be in his corner. One of the best opportunities to express your gratitude is first thing in the morning. How do you greet your husband each morning? Is he confident in your love? Give him a "wake up call" that he'll never forget—a big "I love you" and an "I'm so glad I'm your wife!

                                                                                                                                                                  
Day Two
Through love serve one another. (Gal. 5:13b)


How did you do yesterday with your first day of blessing and encouraging your husband? Was it easy? Was it hard to hold your tongue when you wanted to say something negative? We hope you're off to a good start. (If you blew it, don't give up - start again today!) There are so many practical things you can praise, if you look for them. Today, find some way that your husband is serving you or your family. Does he help around the house? Take care of the car? Fix things that are broken? If your budget allows, give him a new, small tool with a big bow attached. But make sure he doesn't think it's part of a "Honey Do" list! Maybe your husband's not a handyman, but does he run errands for you? Let you go first? Take care of you when you are sick? Help you make decisions? Praise him for his willingness to serve others. Let him know that you see his unique service as a great strength.

                                                                                                                                                                  
Day Three
Love suffers long, and is kind. (1 Cor. 13:4)
And my God shall supply all your need according to His riches in glory by Christ Jesus. (Phil. 4:19)


Love indeed suffers long and is kind. As you consider your Encouragement Challenge, determine today that you will not say anything negative to or about your husband. Speak kindly to him with words of genuine encouragement. If your husband is considerate of your needs, let him know that you have noticed. Thank him for his kindness and consideration. Thank the Lord that your husband knows how to be both tough and tender. Sometimes it's difficult for a man to be gentle, kind or tender—especially if he hasn't had role models in these areas. If he's not a considerate person, appeal to him for help without complaining. Let him know that it's hard for you to handle some things alone. Then, when he moves in to help, don't insist that he do it your way. Be glad that he is responding, and express your gratitude. Ultimately, you can't expect your husband to make you feel more secure, loved, etc. Remember that only God can meet the deepest needs of your heart.

                                                                                                                                                                  
Day Four
Let him labor, working with his hands what is good. (Eph. 4:28b)


We are all accountable for the things we say, both negative and positive words. Have you embraced the challenge to speak only positive things to your husband and to others about him? Here's a suggestion that touches the core of your husband's world. Some women take their husband's career for granted, and they show it in many ways. Do you "dump" on your husband at the end of the workday, or do you strengthen and encourage him with your words? A wise wife will make her husband feel that she values and appreciates his work. Let him know that you are glad he is a hard worker. Take opportunities to praise his diligence and resourcefulness to others. If your husband is out of work, unable to work, or refuses to work, you'll need to be more creative. Praise him for a character quality that you see in him that would be a vital part of a successful career—such as persistence, decisiveness, strength, an analytical mind, organizational skills, good with people, good listener, determination, etc.

                                                                                                                                                                  
Day Five
Let no corrupt communication proceed out of your mouth, but what is good for necessary edification, that it may impart grace to the hearers. (Eph. 4:29)


Another way to describe the positive side of this "30-Day Encouragement Challenge" is by using the word "edify," which means, "to build up." Negative comments only discourage and tear down. Positive comments encourage and build. Do you edify your husband before others, adding to his value in their eyes? This is especially important to other family members. Do you praise your husband to his relatives, and yours? Does your husband's mother know how much you love him? How about your dad? Perhaps you can drop a word of praise into a conversation or letter. Be creative in letting your relatives know that you respect your husband, love him, and support him - in spite of whatever flaws and weaknesses he may have.

                                                                                                                                                                  
Day Six
Whatever ye do, do all to the glory of God. (1 Cor. 10:31b)


Do you recognize and appreciate your husband's creativity? Or do you criticize and demean his efforts? Instead of negativity, determine to be positive. Perhaps you can help your husband see that his efforts are an opportunity to glorify God. Is your husband the "creative" type? Does he have any artistic gifts? What is that special "knack" he has? Affirm him for his handiwork—a hobby, music, gardening, tinkering with cars, working with wood, etc. Remember: Even if he doesn't measure up to your standards, praise his efforts. If your budget allows, buy him a book or magazine that will continue to encourage his special skill or talent. If you have a hard time finding his "creative side," understand that men's creativity sometimes is related to their work. Find something he does to make his job run more smoothly or something he does that adds value to his work . . . and let him know that you have noticed. Make his day . . . Praise his accomplishments in public, while he is listening.


                                                                                                                                                                  
Day Seven
Do not overwork to be rich; because of your own understanding, cease! . . . for riches certainly make themselves wings. (Prov. 23:4-5b)
That I may cause those who love me to inherit wealth, that I may fill their treasuries. (Prov. 8:21)

Money is the root of much marital discord. Ask yourself, "Am I being negative toward my husband in the area of finances?" Determine not to speak evil of your husband in this area. Discover ways to encourage and help him instead. Does your husband handle finances wisely? Does he make good financial investments, based on biblical principles? Does he have a budget? Does he make wise decisions about purchases—checking many sources before he buys? Is he a good steward of his money before the Lord? Let him know how much you appreciate his strengths in financial matters. If he is weak in this area, encourage any good decisions that he does make. Perhaps you can help him, if he's open to the idea, by organizing financial files or providing other practical assistance. Or, if he wants you to handle the finances, ask for his input before you make decisions that will affect him.

Page 1: Ladybug Babies - the beginning...

Well it is the 20th of September and I have made pitifull progress but it is progress none-the-less so I thought I would post anyway. I am doing a ladybug page where you unzip it and there are baby bugs inside - delight - delight! It is probably the page I remember most vividly from my quiet book as a kid. I quickly discovered just how completely unprepared I was to take on this challenge. I have spent the last 2.5 weeks getting a sewing machine, finding fabric, a zipper, interfacing and waiting for a package in the mail from mom with the pattern. Even then I discovered my no name scissors reawakened a thumb injury from grade 11(!). ANYWAY - success is finally on the horizon. Here is my almost finished first baby bug. What do you think?

Page 1- a tool kit

This page is handsewn felt and then I covered thick foam board with felt and used my handy glue gun. I think Dan and I will place bets on how long it will take Levi to break the hammer. :) I still want to put sew Levi's name onto the box and cover the handle of the screwdriver and saw with a more colorful felt.

Blueberry Focaccia

It's blueberry season in the Lower Mainland, so I googled blueberry desserts and searched the images until I found this recipe on Woman's Day Kitchen. My goal was to follow EVERY direction to the tee, but I failed partly because the recipe failed me.

Recipe Ingredients
1⁄2 cup sugar
1 Tbsp grated lemon zest
3 to 3 1⁄2 cups all-purpose flour
1 packet (1⁄4 oz) rapid-rise active dry yeast
3⁄4 tsp salt
1 1⁄4 cups whole milk
1 large egg, lightly beaten
1⁄2 stick (1⁄4 cup) unsalted butter, softened
2 cups blueberries

My dough is resting under the big bowl.

1. Pulse sugar and lemon zest in food processor until zest is finely ground and incorporated into the sugar. In a large bowl, whisk 1⁄3 cup of the lemon sugar, 3 cups of the flour, the yeast and salt until blended.

**I didn't have rapid-rise yeast and Levi was already in bed, so I couldn't run out to the store. SOLUTION: I used my pizza dough yeast, which is also a rapid yeast and from my research the important thing is to remember to mix it into the dry ingredients (no proofing) and then heat liquids to 120 or 130 degrees F.

2. Heat milk in a 2-cup measure in microwave on high 1 1⁄2 minutes, or until temperature registers 130°F onan instant-read thermometer; add to flour mixture with egg and butter. Mix with a rubber spatula until a soft, sticky dough forms; scrape dough onto a floured surface. Using a dough scraper to assist, knead with some of the remaining 1⁄2 cup flour to form a smooth and pliable dough, about 2 minutes. Cover the dough with the mixing bowl; let rest 10 minutes.

Getting ready to RISE!!

3. Line a large baking sheet with parchment paper. Divide dough in half. Working with 1 piece of dough at a time, stretch and pat out on parchment into a 12-in. free-form rectangle, about 1⁄4 in. thick. Scatter with half the blueberries and half of the remaining lemon sugar. On floured surface, pat out and stretch remaining dough slightly larger than the first piece and place over bottom dough. Press edges together and tuck under the loaf. Cover with a sheet of greased plastic wrap. Place baking sheet in a war

*** And this is where the recipe failed me. "Place baking sheet in a war..." I could not find a full form of the recipe anywhere on the website, so decided to place the baking sheet in a warm place for 30min (it is rapid rise yeast).

4. Heat oven to 350°F. With floured fingers, dimple surface of loaf (pierce any bubbling with a knife tip to releaseair pockets). Scatter top of loaf with remaining blueberries and lemon sugar. Bake 25 to 30 minutes until golden brown. Slide focaccia onto a wire rack and cool slightly. Serve warm.

Reviews: It was tasty!! The lemon zest sugar mixture was delicious and I'd love to try this with other fruits and combinations of fruit. It took longer to cook, more like 40 min. And in the future I will probably use regular yeast and see how it goes. Although this is best served warm, it packed up nicely in Dan's lunch this morning and I don't hear him complaining that it isn't warm. :) Another challenge complete!!!!

Peach Melba

Choosing a dessert for this week was a difficult task. After eating many delicious peaches, though, the must-have main ingredient became clear. I chose to make Peach Melba, a recipe I've always heard about but never really knew what it was. Now I know what it is - pure deliciousness.

Ingredients:
3 cups water
3 1/2 cups sugar
1 vanilla pod, split lengthwise
2 Tbsp. lemon juice
8 peaches
3 cups raspberries
1/4 cup confectioners sugar
1 Tbsp. lemon juice
vanilla ice cream


Directions:
Put first 4 ingredients in wide pan and heat to dissolve sugar. Bring to a boil and bubble it for 5 minutes, then turn heat to a fast simmer. Cut peaches in half and take the stones out. Poach peaches in sugar syrup for 2-3 minutes on each side. Put on plate, peel skins & let cool. (If making a day in advance, put in fridge in syrup. If day of, peaches in fridge and syrup in freezer for next time!)
Blend raspberries, sugar and lemon juice in food processor. Sieve to remove seeds. Put in fridge.


To serve:
2 peach halves, 2 scoops of ice cream, raspberry sauce on top

My notes:
This is a good dessert. It's delicious, easy and everything can be done ahead of time! I halved the recipe but next time I'd only do a quarter of the raspberry sauce. A little goes a long way, even if it is also wonderful on yogurt. I also used 1/4 tsp. vanilla extract rather than the vanilla pod. Next time I'd probably also quarter the syrup mixture and just do two poaching processes.

Peach Pie

Pie Crust

• 2 cups all-purpose flour
• 1 teaspoon salt
• 1 cup shortening
• 1/2 cup water

Directions

1. In a large bowl, combine flour and salt. Cut in shortening until mixture resembles coarse crumbs. Stir in water, a little at a time, until mixture forms a ball. Divide dough in half, and shape into balls. Wrap in plastic, and refrigerate for 4 hours or overnight.
2. Roll out dough on a floured counter. Don't over work it. Use as directed in pie recipe.

Pie Filling

• 1 egg, beaten
• 6 cups sliced peeled peaches
• 1/2 cup all-purpose flour
• 1 cup white sugar
• 1/2 teaspoon ground cinnamon
• 2 tablespoons butter

Directions

1. Preheat the oven to 450 degrees F (220 degrees C).
2. Line the bottom and sides of a 9 inch pie plate with one of the pie crusts. Brush with some of the beaten egg to keep the dough from becoming soggy later.
3. Place the sliced peaches in a large bowl. In a separate bowl, mix together the flour, sugar, and cinnamon. Pour over the peaches, and mix gently. Pour into the pie crust, and dot with butter. Cover with the other pie crust, and fold the edges under. Flute the edges to seal or press the edges with the tines of a fork dipped in egg. Brush the remaining egg over the top crust. Cut several slits in the top crust to vent steam.
4. Bake for 10 minutes in the preheated oven, then reduce the heat to 350 degrees F (175 degrees C) and bake for an additional 30 to 35 minutes, until the crust is brown and the juice begins to bubble through the vents. If the edges brown too fast, cover them with strips of aluminum foil about halfway through baking.
   

Inspired by peach season, this week I made a pie. It was my first time making pie, and all things considered, I think it went quite well. I read a lot of the crust recipe reviews and other tips since I was a first timer and the two main tips that kept coming up were to keep things cold (everything... hands, bowl, water, etc) and to not work the dough too much. So, those were the things that I focused on and it seemed to work. The crust turned out very tender and flaky. Next time I may try a butter crust, just for comparison, but I would certainly recommend this recipe. One other helpful tip I read was to leave the pie in the oven after it’s done baking to help thicken the filling, so that it isn’t too runny. I’m not sure how it would have turned out otherwise, but I followed this tip and the inside was perfect. I served it to a friend and my husband, and both gave rave reviews.