MERRY CHRISTMAS

What is the true meaning of Christmas?
The true meaning of Christmas is love. Christmas-true-meaning

LIVE

Life is so precious, we could never get yesterday back.  As I think about the loved ones that I've lost, I have many should of, would of, could of moments.  Find ways to enjoy every moment, make it count.  Take time to cherish moments with your spouse, and loved ones.  Many times we get caught up in the rat race of every day life, if we're not careful time will past before having a chance of living and enjoying life.  

8 Sex Questions You’re Too Embarrassed to Ask

Hmmm!  Take a look.....8-Sex-Questions-You-re-Too-Embarrassed-to-Ask

EYE CANDY

Working with all guys every day, made me come to the realization that most men always want to look at an attractive female.  Although all the guys are married, you can image some of the conversation that takes place in our computer lab. 

Why I Cheated on My Husband

Well! Another informative article I thought I would share, take what you can learn, and disregard the rest!  why-I-cheated-on-my-husband.

Four Secrets to a Hotter Marriage

Thought I would share this article I read on MSN.

Four-secrets-to-a-hotter-marriage

OTHER INFLUENCES

You never know what people are going through; I spoke to A gentlemen last evening when dropping my daughter off to her dance class at church. As we were walking, he just continued talking and just wanted to let me know how much he loves GOD, in spite of his recent breakup with his yearlong girlfriend. He continued to share how he knows she let others influence their breakup, sharing details continually with her co-workers about their relationship, and eventually it took a toll and she told him he could never take good care of her.

Success

Do you realize you have the power to be successful?  Make up in your mind that you have the power to have a successful life.  A lot of times we allow, others and circumstances to dictate our success.   My faith and determination has allow me to make up in my mind, that I will be successful.  What about you?  Let's get focused!

LIVE IN THE NOW

Choose to live on purpose.  Live in the now, tomorrow isn't promised to anyone.  So choose to LOVE, LIVE & FORGIVE Now....

Ultimate Proposal

Click Ultimate Proposal to see elaborate proposal....

Embarrassment maybe a blessing

Sometimes it's necessary to share your uncomfortable situations with someone else.  Something you may think is embarrassing for you, may actually help someone else that may be dealing with that same situation. You will know if you will need to share, the opportunity will present itself. How did you deal with losing a house, job, or maybe loved one.... Have you ever thought you may have gone through something to make you stronger and help someone else...

ENJOY EVERY MOMENT

Learn how to enjoy every second of the day, do you realize you'll never get it back.  As I come upon the 2nd anniversary of my mother's death, I wish I could re-live many of the moments we shared.  Wishing I took more time to enjoy the time I spent with her.  As I proceed with life, I'm learning how to make every moment count.  Being mindful not to rush the time at work, or in traffic.  When I look at my kids, how fast they have grown, searching for memories when they were younger.  Slow down, and enjoy life.   

ADDITON TO MY DAILY PRAYER

"FATHER GOD, THANK YOU FOR MY LOVELY HANDSOME HUSBAND, THANK YOU FOR KEEPING MY EYES STAYED ON HIM, LET US CONTINUE TO LOVE EACH OTHER UNCONDITIONALLY, LUSTING ONLY AFTER ONE ANOTHER,THANK YOU FOR DIRECTING OUR PATHS, AND TEACHING US HOW TO TRAIN UP THE CHILDREN YOU BLESSED US WITH. THANK YOU, LORD FOR CONTINUING TO BE THE CENTER OF OUR JOY, PEACE AND HAPPINESS, FOR WITHOUT YOU FIRST IN OUR LIVES, WE KNOW THAT WE ARE NOTHING. IN JESUS NAME AMEN.... 

REMEMBERING 911

Hmmmm Anniversary Time....

Wow after twenty something years, you would think I would have something in mind... I want to plan a quick memorable wedding anniversary in about 2 weeks....

Surprised Fiancée

OMG- Oh My Goodness!  Groom surprises Fiancée with wedding.    Check out Operation white cake.

Women need to feel loved, and men need to feel respected

Focus on family website list great articles for building healthy biblical relationships.  When you have a moment join me in reading the complete series.  The Love and Respect Principle

School, School, School

Well, it's that time again, for my children to go back to school.  Although, they're excited, I have to adjust back to getting up earlier, more traffic, going to school functions meeting etc.   Paying money for every little thing, some times I wonder if it would be better to home school or work 2 extra jobs to pay tuition for private school.  Not to mention I keep putting off what I started almost a year ago.  Just think I would be almost done with my MBA... Well, I'm still holding on to it's never too late...

Teach me your ways

Yes!  It's one of those days, I think we all have them.... I love my groom but, sometimes he knows how to get on my nerves.  After all these years of marriage, I'm still not use to the way he communicates when he's upset with me.  Dear GOD, please teach my husband how to communicate with his lovely, beautiful gorgeous wife.  And also, GOD please don't forget to teach me how to respond with a quiet spirit...I'm asking Lord, to teach me your ways....

Kissing Game

Do you greet your spouse with a kiss, or give a kiss before bed time, or when either one of you are leaving the house?  Challenge yourself to give your spouse several kisses a day. 

It's amazing how we can go through a day without kissing our love ones, not to mention our spouse. Do you remember the first time you had butterflies in your stomach when kissing your spouse?  Make it a game count how many kisses you receive back.  Give a passionate kiss on your way out the door, that will give your spouse something to think about all day.  Kiss your spouse on the neck, ear lope, or cheek.  We need to return back to the kissing scene, when we made such a big deal out of kissing in our dating stages....Make it fun, and desirable...Kiss, Kiss, Kiss.....

SELF CHECK

Lately, I've had to perform a self check on how I've been feeling lately.  You see, my groom has been spending a lot of time and money on a hobby he's acquired the last couple of years.  Although I'm grateful he's found pleasure in something that isn't harmful to himself or our marriage, I found myself thinking... Hmmm, he's not happy with his career, we're not getting any younger, and you know what I'm thinking.....He could be spending more time doing something else.   I've been trying to think of ways he could make money with this hobby of flying remote control helicopters.  I just came to the conclusion that I need to concentrate on ways I can make my career more fulfilling.  He works hard at many other things to let his hobby get in the way.  I must admit, I love travelling to the R/C Helicopter events.... Maybe one day, he'll discover a way to make money doing his hobby.

Your Spouse Chose you

I love this post I read over at Marriage Works, it reminded me how me and my groom came together and still going strong twenty something years later.   Check out this post your-spouse-chose-you-honor-that-choice.

Influrence Him with your Life

Wow I came across this post that really said what I was thinking  The Generous Wife.

HAPPY 4TH OF JULY

            HAPPY 4TH OF JULY, CELEBRATING THE DECLARATION OF INDEPENDENCE!

Just A Thought

I stumbled over a note I wrote in March, I thought it would be something good to share!! "Why is it that we work so hard to get our spouse’s attention, and when we get it, we either slack off, or lose the drive to keep it coming, until we don’t receive it anymore?  To only start the process over again, or is it just me?"   

DAY DREAMING

It's just amazing how fast life is going by.  I could remember how I imaged how marrying my high school sweetheart would be.  The turn out is so different than I dreamed, both good and bad.  As I remember many of the letters I wrote to my sweetheart while he was away in the military, I still would love to have that relationship with him, that we were the most important thing that mattered to each other(GOD FIRST).  Instead of living vicariously through movies, books, and other relationships, I want my own dream marriage. 

Father's Day Hmmmm

Okay wives, let's do it up for the fathers in our lives.  One thing about my groom he is an awesome Dad, sometimes I think he's a better father than husband (LOL).  I am so thankful, and proud that he is a good father to our 4 children.  I would love to take him out to dinner, but I guess I'm so good of a cook that he would rather me cook him dinner (Darn).  So the kids and I will plan special day for him...What are some of your plans for Fathers Day?

Comment from last post- anticipating needs

As Selena over at The Marriage Lounge commented on the last post, I decided to use as my next post. Like Selena indicated “It is a very selfless act to make it your priority to pursue the needs of your spouse. It is my intention to do this often but sometimes the "selfish flesh" will rise up. However, I have learned that the more you focus on the needs of your spouse or "consider your spouse over yourself" (Philippians 2: 1-4), the happier you are. Great topic!

Yes indeed, prayer helps with accomplishing this selfless act. I sometimes, think about someone who I honor and respect highly (my bishop, or a celebrity, or the president) and put my groom on the same pedestal, still working on doing this when my groom irritate my nerves! LOL

ANTICIPATING NEEDS

Do you anticipate your spouse’s needs (wants)?  I must admit that I do, but I wasn't all the time. You know, I do for my children, and I do go beyond at my job.  As I thought about this, why don't I do this consistently for the main person that I vowed to love forever?  After all I was created for him (Gen 2:21) his happiness will be mine.  I can still hear Bunny Wilson say, that you have to get off the self track and get on the servant track and score points for GOD, as she spoke at our women's conference.  As you see many of my post have been geared in the direction of concentrating on my spouse, and that's because I've made him a priority. I want to please GOD, and also have heaven on earth with my spouse.  What are your thoughts? Please comment..

FANTASY

Hmmm do you know your spouse’s sexual fantasy? At one point of our marriage I was afraid to know, I thought it would be something out of the ordinary or would cause me to be too uncomfortable. However, we share the same morals and I trust my groom, knowing he wouldn't ask anything that goes against our Christian values ex :( threesome). How many of you know that there are many other women willing to fulfill your spouse's sexual fantasy.

HONOR

In case you need a refresher, as I often do!  Review is necessary.  Honor is another word that is losing value in the world. 

COMMITMENT

What does commitment means to you?  When you repeated your wedding vows, did you really agree to put your spouse's needs above your own?  Society seems to have a problem with the word commitment.  Many relationships suffer from selfishness.  However, once we commit to one another, our spouse's needs should come first.  Just think of the fulfillment you will receive once you sacrifice your personal rights to satisfy your spouse.  In which, your spouse will want to do the same for you.

Start praying effectively for your spouse today

After reading a post from a blog I follow, I thought I would share this awesome Spouse Prayer Template!

THANKFULNESS

As I take a look at my life I Thank GOD for every moment that he has allowed me to experience.  Of course, there are many things that I could complain about, however I realize my life could be alot worse.  Join me in taking time out to enjoy every moment of your life, knowing everything happens for a reason.  Try to look a each situation and take the positive out of that situation, knowing that every situation is to make you stronger.   I look forward to living  Live on purpose, choose to be happy.  Just remember GOD only gives you what you can bare.... Celebrate Life....

HAPPY MEMORIAL DAY

Thank a military person today for all that they have done.   No one can really understand what these men and women have sacrificed, the memories they will past down to next generation.  Our country isn't perfect but it still is the most wonderful place to live. We have so many freedoms that we take for granted and many of these are because of the men and women who have sacrificed to make it so.  Today—give thanks, as you're enjoying  BBQ and family.  To my Handsome Groom, thank you for the years you sacrificed as a Marine....

Why Complain?

Wow! I was just reminded when reading another blog, of a scripture I use to carry around in my purse on a 3x5 index card.  Out of sight out of mind. "  Do all things without murmurings and disputings." (Philippians 2:14). This scripture is simple but deep.  Do you realize how much you complain?  I have to be mindful of this scripture, because I do find myself complaining more often then not.  And I do have to admit, I've learned how to not argue as much with my groom, however the key word in the scripture is ALL.   If you think about it, is it worth complaining, does it really do any good?  What can you do in your power to change it?  Action speaks louder then words. 

Simple Disagreement

Time management, well as soon as I think I might have it down, I go and add something else.  And guess what suffers, the not so fun things, like washing and folding clothes.  Or cooking everyday, my groom and I had a heated disagreement Tuesday evening.  Well, pretty much he felt I should have cooked, but I cooked the day before which should have lasted for Tuesday.  Anyway, once I got home, I did log on the computer for awhile (problem #1). 

5 Bad Relationship Habit to Dump

Interesting article listed on yahoo.

Marty Friedman, author of Straight Talk for Men About Marriage, to discuss how to recognize — and get rid of — these bad habits so your love life can prosper. Read more on 5 bad relationship habits to dump.

APPRECIATION

How was your mother's day?  As I was reading other blogs, it was surprising how many women didn't feel appreciated on mother's day.  Then I start looking back on some of the years I didn't.  It goes back to you get what you give.  One of the ladies indicated her 2 teenage daughters seem to have forgotten, or did they?  I know teenagers are some what selfish, but they also mimic what they see. We as parents set an example (expectations) for our children, did they see you appreciate your mother, or husband on father's day? The real underline meaning is, do your children see you and your spouse appreciate each other overall?  Why would it change on a commerical day that the world has setup as Mother's Day.   

stay-up-instead-of-going-to-bed-angry

Good information, very well said, had to share this information, most of us can't sleep when we're angry anyway stay-up-instead-of-going-to-bed-angry.

Is your house a home

The women of the house is a important role.  We are to set the tone and environment of our homes.  If you think about it, we are ministers of our homes.  We minister to our families five senses daily, starting with food, clean house, our appearance,and conversation.  Is your house a home? Do you think your spouse is rushing to come to your home, or would he rather be in someone else's.  It's meaning to the old saying a way to a man's heart is through his stomach, cook more often, there are plenty of quick recipes. Take time out daily to tidy up clutter, and take a extra moment to look nice for your spouse. One thing I know about my groom is he loves to be appreciated, and loves affection.  Definitely don't forget your tone, your spouse will be rushing home to hear your voice. Your home should be fit for a king, a safe haven from the stress of the world. 

MY ROYAL MARRIAGE

My royal marriage, well, in my eyes!  LOL... As I got ready for work Friday morning, I watched Will and Kate's royal wedding.  It was amazing, all the people out on the streets, the huge church etc.  I was really impressed at how spiritual the wedding vows were.  Although I wouldn't want all the attention that they're getting, it made me remember our special day.  I'm thankful for my groom who I have known for more than half my life, and the fact that we're both in it for life.  We both know without GOD, it's impossible for us.   Although we didn't get married in a church, we made a commitment to GOD and each other. 

We may not be viewed as royalty by the world, but in GOD's kingdom we are.  Ladies we have to be mindful that we are to honor and respect our kings.  If you feel your husband isn't a king yet than(Speak those things that be not as though they were)Romans 4:17. 

Five Top skills for Happy Relationships

Here is an interesting article! Take a moment to read, it's very helpful information that would improve any relationship. Click on FIVE TOP SKILLS PROVEN TO ENTICE YOUR MATE TO LOVE AND RESPECT YOU. 

Happy Resurrection

HE LIVES

Matthew 28:6 the angel declared "He is not here: for he is risen

John 20:29: "Because you have seen me, you have believed; blessed are those who have not seen and yet have believed."

Spontaneous

For some reason my groom thought I would be ready willing and alert to bond with him at 3:30 in the morning(not the 1st time).  Is it something that wakes them up to be ready to go.  If I'm in a deep sleep (snoring) why would he think I'm ready to bond.  I'm all about compromise, at least let me be up and get my mind ready.  Is that too much to ask or is it me?   I mean for me, before bed time would have been ideal, but he fell asleep downstairs on the couch.     Am I being too selfish, is he?  Please feel free to comment.

Body Language

Many times body language speaks louder than words.  It been said that researcher indicate that 93% of our communications is nonverbal.  I read that your body language conveys more of what's in your heart, in which your spouse will react more to your body language than your words.  Your facial expressions, voice tone, eye contact, gesture, body movement and touch all plays a huge role in communicating.  Good communication means successful relationship.  Use body language to show your spouse meaningful love.  It's been said actions speaks louder than words...

Fix Yourself

Do you spend more time complaining and pointing out things that are wrong with your spouse?  Is everything everybody else's fault never yours?  Well, I'm here to tell you.  Stop and take a look at yourself...please know that you can't fix your spouse or anyone else.  You have to make changes yourself, and maybe what you're trying to change in your spouse will change.  Only the person you're trying to fix can decide to change, not you trying to make them change.  I bet there is a lot you can change about yourself.....

Little things

Wow, it's the little things that makes the difference.  My groom has always been very handy when it comes to home and auto repairs.  Today, yes a weekday, he decided to change the oil in 2 of our vehicles.  I wanted to relax on the couch for a moment (exhausting day at work).  After about 30 minutes, I went outside to check on him.  I stayed and watched him, handed him whatever he needed.  He gave me a couple of kisses out of the blue.  He was just happy that I kept him company and conversated with him.  Wow! It's the little things, who knew....

Dinner & a Movie

My groom decided that we should go out to dinner, it was nice to see he took the initiative to suggest. Other plans were made for the kids.  We were back home by 8pm, we popped in a movie and cuddled.  Something so plain and simple turned out to be a great time of bonding and discussion of future plans.  Please share some of your date night experiences.

TEAM WORK MAKES THE DREAM WORK

This topic is a great one to discuss with your spouse, read more at a blog I follow http://marriagelounge.blogspot.com/.

Your Words

Sticks and stones may break my bones, but words WILL never hurt me!  When it comes to your spouse and/or love ones, words can be affective.  Be very mindful of what you say to your love ones, you can never take it back.  It is very easy to say something you really didn't mean during a heated discussion, just remember life and death is in the power of the tongue(prov 18:21).  Why would you want to say something to your spouse that you know would deeply hurt them, this is someone you committed to love forever and should be on the same team.  Try communicating at a time that no one is upset, or have a family meeting where everyone can be involved.  Remember no one is a mind reader, you also have to realize no one is exactly like you.    

In Sickness and Health

This is awesome I had to share this.....click on http://mymarriageworks.org/ to read today's post. 

Procrastination

Why do we put off things that we know we need to do.  Why not do the least favorite thing first to get it out of the way?  I’ve been asking myself that for years.   I’m at the age now, that organization is a must, my patience is very limited.  In order to tackle procrastination, you must be organized.   List the least favorite task first the sooner completed the better you will feel about accomplishing the task.

LOOK IN THE MIRROR

Take a good overall look at yourself.  Would you marry you?  If the answer is no, then what would you change to make yourself worthy of marriage?  If you wouldn't marry someone like you, then should you expect your spouse too?  Our vows do state "for better or for worst" however are you doing your very best to improve and maintain yourself?  Many times we become selfish and forget to take the extra time to look attractive for our spouse, or be conscious of our health, or even improve our knowledge.  Your self worth adds value to you, and your family. 

TRIGGERS

Are you aware of what your triggers are, what easily upsets you?  Do you know what your spouse’s triggers are?  If you are conscious of what pet peeves you and your spouse have, you will be better equipped to manage your reaction.

Circle of Influence

Be mindful of the company you keep. It's been said that birds of a feather flock together. If you're constantly hanging around someone who is always negative, lazy, or complaining, more than likely you will start doing the same. Surround yourself with positive married couples that you can learn from, that share the same morales.

If your husband is constantly hanging with a friend\relative that is known to cheat on his wife, subconsciously your husband may think it's okay. Or if your girlfriend is always shopping and living beyond her means, you may be tempted to as well. Sometimes you can encourage and help others(if they want help), but are you willing to do that? Or, you may be the one that need the help, so you need to have someone positive to keep you on track and tell you the truth.

You also have to be mindful of what your watching and listening too. Again we still have choices, we can decide who we're letting in our thoughts, marriage, around our kids, our overall circle.

CHOICES

No matter what life throws our way, we still have choices. Women definitely have a controlling desire, and throughout life this far I've learned I can not control everything.  In the begining of our marriage I wanted to be in control.  For some reason I didn't think my groom was capable of making all of the wise decisions. 
 He wanted to make me happy so he allowed me to do many things my way.    

An Eye Opener

Wives, I had a wake up call… Since I’ve been on a mission to spruce up my marriage, all of a sudden it seems like people in my circle are experiencing marriage issues. What worked back in the day… isn’t cutting it these days. See, our husbands are finding out they have options… Well they may have known, but haven’t acted on them. These women are making it hard for them to resist.

BONDING

In case you haven't realized it yet, love making is one of the major ways of bonding with your husband.  I haven't always felt that way, and definitely have to be mindful to enjoy many times.  It's amazing how men are equipped with an internal clock that every 72 hours he's looking to bond with you. 
Marriage is a compromise, and bonding with my groom keeps peace in my household.  When he's satisfied, I've learned that he goes out of his way to satisfy me.  The stronger the bond, the stronger the marriage.   

The bad thing about a good wife

Wow! I attended a conference today, and one of the speakers spoke about Leadership, and how it was so imperative to lead by listening.  He spoke about growing your staff and making sure everyone is constantly learning.  What stuck out to me is when he gave an analogy, "The bad thing about a good wife". A good wife knows everything about her husband, his job, his likes, what he need.  However, the speaker goes on to say.  The good wife becomes comfortable, like some employees, they don't know what you want but know what you need.  When the position is mastered, we get complacent and is not keeping up with the changes that are going on around us. He said, the good wife may know everything about what her husband need, but failed to pay attention to the fact that her husband's wants changed years ago.  That is why it is easy for a husband to leave a 20 year marriage for another women who may know nothing about him, but is eager to listen and learn with the right voice.  Also easy for you to be replaced on your job, a new employee will be excited to come to work everyday.   Definitely have to pay attention!  Wow...

DATING

Do you remember how it was when you first started dating your spouse? We can never go back to the past, but we can start courting our spouse again. We have to take time out like we did in the beginning, to impress each other. Planning is the key, I was able to snag a great deal on hotel a month in advance. We both were able to take off from work; we had a family friend come over to stay with kids. I had my groom drop me off to check in Hotel, while he parked the vehicle; I rushed up to our room and decorated a little. I packed snacks, and wine etc. It was great, because he had to call me to get the room number, he was very surprised. We also worked out together in the weight room, walked downtown holding hands, and reminisced.