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Donna Kaufman's "Treasures From My Heart to Yours" May 05 Newsletter

#1 · May 3, 2005, 1:49 pm

Quote from Forum Archives on May 3, 2005, 1:49 pm
Posted by: homenews <homenews@...>
Dear Hope Chest friends,

I am preparing the Mother's Day issue of the Hope Chest to be sent out in a few days. In the meantime, I thought you might enjoy reading "Treasures >From My Heart to Yours" by Donna Kauffman.

Blessings,

Virginia Knowles

www.TheHopeChest.net

Treasures From My Heart to Yours

Free email newsletter reaching over 600 women.

Offering encouragement to mothers, grandmothers and great grandmothers

Editor: Donna Kauffman

Author: Treasures From a Mothers Heart,

The Treasure of Careful Planning--Enjoy the Gift of Organization,

Treasures From a Waiting Heart--Experiencing His Healing Presence

[email protected]

[email protected]

www.djkauffman.com

4123 Kinsman Road

N. Bloomfield, OH 44450

440-693-4070

Volume 3 #5 May 2005

_____________________________________________________________________________

* If you ever send a note to me and I do not respond, please try again. There seem to be kinks in the system.

* To change an email address please send both your old and new address. Thank you.

* This newsletter is from you as well as myself. When you send comments, ideas, suggestions, questions or answers for the newsletter, please tell me if its ok to add your name with your comment. I like to also put in the number of children you have. Thank you.

Gracing Mothers and Daughters With Gifts of Encouragement

In praising or loving a child,

We love and praise not that which is,

But that which we hope for.

Goethe

Did you know that nearly every mother in this country has a dream to see her little girl grow to be wise, successful and godly -- but few see their dreams come true? I believe that one effective method we can use to move toward realizing our dream is lavishing gifts of encouragement into our daughters hearts. Moms and daughters alike are motivated when handed lush boxes filled with encouraging words.

Picture yourself with me in a delicately decorated room. The soft colors display assorted pinks and lavenders. Sitting on tables spread with silky cloths are numerous vases of lavender hyacinths and pink tulips. Among the furnishings several pink and lavender votive candles are aglow, sending forth gentle flames, flickering with warmth. Nestled here and there are various sizes and shapes of finely wrapped gift boxes. Each one is attired in different shades of pink and lavender. All are graced delightfully with bows of many shapes, styles and colors which are mellow and pleasing. Wrapped within the confines of each box are words of encouragement. In this marvelous array of pink and lavender delights, the tulips and hyacinths waft forth soothing, gentle scents.

Tucked among all this quietness, like a bleeding heart, another vase displays a rugged, browned, scraggly hyacinth thats journeyed through weeks of harsh winds, snow storms and hail. Instead of crystal clear water, it was fed murky green grease and slimy oils. The grief of its negligent care has taken its toll. The fragrance is stale, the colors are dismal, the meant to be beautiful blooms are tattered and beaten. Ladies, if a woman, young or old, is not graced with kind words, gentleness and warmth, their spirit also withers and dies. They take on the form of the miserable hyacinth.

Can you pick from the stash of pink and lavender gift boxes a large assortment? Inside each one write encouraging notes to your daughters, mothers, sisters, granddaughters and grandmothers. Write with boldness. Share all the positive thoughts youve ever encountered about each of these favorite women in your life. Take those beautifully wrapped treasures, place the name to whom it belongs under the bow and pass out your pink and lavender boxes.

Gottfried R. VonKronenberger says, Encouragement through praise is the most effective method of getting people to do their best.

Encouraging words bring life. Negative words bring despair. We can pass along beautiful pink and lavender gift boxes, tied up with delightful bows, to all the important ladies in our life--especially our lovely daughters. As we spread the fragrance of encouraging words, well likely find were much closer to seeing the fulfillment of our dreams for their young precious lives.

Your Friend,

Donna

Proverbs 31:26

Mothers Day Sale

Month of May

Books

*Treasures From A Mothers heart: $11.99, four or more $11.00 each. Sale Price: $10.00 ea.

*The Treasure of Careful Planning: $7.99, four or more $7.00 each. Sale Price: $6.50 ea.

*Treasures From a Waiting Heart: $9.50, four or more $8.50 each. Sale Price: $8.50 ea.

Treasures From a Waiting Heart

--Experiencing His Healing Presence

As you follow Donnas candid story of struggle, failure and self effort, you will identify. As you witness the redemption, healing and freedom that the loving Father abundantly poured out on her repentant heart, you will long. Donna shares the priceless treasures she has gathered at the feet of her loving Father, waiting for His healing and the heart transformation she longed for. Read with your heart, read with a hunger. The Fathers arms are open wide. Hope Byler

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Comments From Others:

I just received your book in the mail and scanned through it. It has set my mind in action and I can feel already that I am going to be changed through your book and experiences. Please pray for me as I work through situations in my life and come to know Christ in a deeper and more intimate way then ever before! He has already been at work, and I want to go deeper and more fuller in my love and devotion to Him.

~~~

Thank you from the depths of my closets! I needed the encouragement and practical pointers on decluttering my house from last months newsletter. I just read your book, Treasures From a Waiting Heart, and I so appreciated the inspiration calling me to declutter my heart as well.

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Treasures From a Mothers Heart

Four years ago I sat down to work on my new years goals. I didnt get very far until I felt too ill to continue. The one goal I had written down was that I desired to find a treasure in every day of the new year.

In the evening Bob took me to the hospital. Over the next nine days as I lay wavering between life and death--in my deepest, darkest moments, the word treasures kept surfacing. With that word the Lord brought a special blessing to my drugged mind. I longed to feel well enough to write the treasures down. A few days after I returned home I remembered some of those special messages the Lord had given me while in the hospital. I began to write. Treasures from the present, back through my daughters growing up years, and way back into my childhood flowed from my pen. And many of those treasures had a inspirational message woven in and through the memory.

From that experience my book Treasures From a Mothers Heart was born. Many of the short memory type stories in the book have included a quote, verse of scripture and an inspirational message making it a type of devotional book for mothers.

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Comments From Others:

It was so good to hear and feel your heart come through your book. Thanks for sharing... having the courage... taking the time... being transparent... as you wrote your story. May your book be a blessing to many as it was to me.

~~~

I would recommend your book to any young mother. You had neat ideas when your children were young.

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The Treasure of Careful Planning

This book tells the story of how the Lord met me during a very low time in my early mothering years. The message He unfolded has changed my life from that day until today. Youll learn to determine your purpose for being on this earth, and numerous ideas on organizing your life in a way that youll have more time to accomplish your purpose than you imagined.

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Comments From Others:

I would like to order four copies of The Treasure of Careful Planning. I really enjoyed this book, especially the organized way of doing "spring" cleaning. Trying to clean all at once looks overwhelming to me! I'm still trying to incorporate the ideas into my daily schedule. The rooms I have done give me satisfaction and courage to keep plugging away on the rest.

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You can order my books at [email protected]. Ill send an invoice with your order. You may mail a check or money order when you receive the invoice.

Shipping for one book is $1.50 each. In Canada, $1.75. If you purchase more than one book the shipping cost is less per book.

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From the scriptures -- to memorize

That they may teach the young women to be sober, to love their husbands, to love their children,

to be discreet, chaste, keepers at home, good, obedient to their own husbands,

that the Word of God be not blasphemed.

Titus 2:4,5

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Poem

Please send your poetry about family life and Ill print it.

My Daughter . . . .

by Hope Byler 4/26/05

My Daughter . . .

by Hope Byler

When I was a little girl,

our family picture stood silently

among other treasures

on my parents dresser.

There I was -

braided and freckled,

with uncertain smile.

And today --

I gasp

as I glimpse you

so closely duplicating

that little girl

called me.

No one has so uncannily

shown me myself

as you have . . .

A delightful -

and sometimes dizzying mix -

of feminine graces,

wiles,

notions,

and dreams . . .

you have brought into our home

a touch of heaven.

To watch you blossom

into the flower of womanhood

has captured a place

among the most delightful

of motherhoods joys.

Now a young lady of 16,

your delicate femininity,

unquenchable cheerfulness,

boundless energy,

and most importantly -

your hungry pursuit of God -

cause a glow

in recesses of my heart so deep

that only God can see.

And as Mary,

I keep all these things

and ponder them in my heart,

standing breathless with you

on the brink of life -

waiting to see

what God is up to.

In the warmth of my womb

you experienced

your first safe home. . .

and now,

my daughter,

may you know,

as you step into womanhood,

that there will always remain for you

in the warmth of my heart

another safe home.

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An Encouragement Message, in Music

for busy moms

Raising a Family

You know as mommies, the Lord has given each of us a high and noble calling. But sometimes in the midst of that calling, we are face-to-face with the reality of runny noses, sticky floors, crying babies, and no more energy to do much about it. I know for myself as a mother of 6 children, (with 4 under 5 yrs of age), I have "those days!" Sometimes, the mountain looms awfully large. That's when the encouragement of others who have already walked this way means so much. The understanding of those still walking the same path helps to reassure us that we are still sane. If you are a mommy in the heat of the battle, allow me to introduce you to a brand-new release "Raising a Family" by Mt Stream Melodies. The desire of the busy moms who recorded this tape is to bless and encourage other moms, to lift them up in their calling and grant fresh courage to wives and mommies. I was moved to tears as I listened to these three friends share from their hearts in song. -Doris from Pa

Mt.Stream Melodies, Raising a Family can be ordered from Ken and Marilyn Rutt (717) 626-0428 or contact them at [email protected].

Tapes are $9.50 CD's $12.50 (tax included)

There is a substantial discount when you order a larger amount.

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From the Recipe Box

Back by popular interest

Feel free to send your recipes

Spiced Up Minute Steaks

6 All Beef Minute Steaks

1 T butter

¾ T Old Bay Seasoning

1 ½ tsp Garlic Powder

½ tsp Onion Salt

½ tsp Ground Black Pepper

6 slices of Provolone or American Cheese

1 C of your favorite spaghetti or marinara sauce

Parmesan Cheese (optional)

Combine Old Bay Seasoning, garlic powder, onion salt and black pepper. Lay out minute steaks and lightly sprinkle on seasonings. Melt butter in pan and cook steaks according to package instructions. Drain and lightly pat steaks with paper towel. Lay a piece of cheese on each steak, and then roll them up together. Put in a microwaveable glass dish. Then cut each roll into 3 or 4 pieces. Pour spaghetti or marinara sauce over rolled steaks. Microwave on high until cheese is melted and sauce is heated through. Sprinkle on Parmesan cheese and serve.

Note: Provolone Cheese gives this dish an Italian taste, American cheese gives it a more cheeseburger taste. Experiment with other cheeses. My husband just raved about this dishI had to make it twice that week

Submitted by Lisa G.

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Question for the Month

Please send your questions and responses to [email protected].

The question for this month is:

I have a 29 month old boy who I'm desperately trying to potty train. He doesn't seem to have much interest. I started early - like at 9 months putting him on the potty chair when he got up in the morning and after naps, sometimes he went sometimes not. And I've been increasing the time on the potty ever since. I have no trouble getting him to come sit on the potty, but he hasn't really starting telling me he has to go. I even wore training pants with rubber pants so he could feel when he gets wet, but it doesn't help. I also tried sitting him on the 'big potty'. Any suggestions for motivating him? He does get 4 little M&Ms if he goes on the potty, but that doesn't seem to be much motivation - sometimes he goes and even forgets about the candy afterwards.

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The question for the last two months:

Have you any thoughts on how to get children to stop being territorial? My children are forever saying, "That's mine! Or you didn't ask so you can't use it!" Even if they are not interested in playing with whatever the other person has, they just don't want anyone else to have it--the next day they could care less if got thrown out. It seems to be a control issue or something. It's driving us crazy!! Any help would be appreciated!! Lani, mother of 7

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Answers:

I've been thinking of the "territorial" question and if I'd have an answer, I could have responded before. I'd love to have an answer to help me! There are a few things Ive tried, however, that seem to work some. -------Have them take turns., five minutes each and use a timer.

--If it is an item that a younger sibling could damage, encourage the older child to keep it in a hidden place, out of temptations way. Also works with their individual stash of candy, gum, etc. That's not teaching them to share, but that can be taught as they bring out that "stash" in their own time and sharing is not so forced on them.

--Be a good example and explain to them the joy of sharing our things with our friends as an adult instead of acting stingy as we may feel sometimes. Donna, mother of 4

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Think about your children 10-15 years from now. I really doubt we will ever be sorry we encouraged a child to share and give up his rights/territory. But many a parent has regretted that they didn't enforce kindness more. We live in a world where our rights are protected and promoted, and yet in order to live at peace with others and God we need to be willing to yield those rights. And the younger we learn this, the easier it is. Begin instilling these habits in a one year old, and you will have a tenderhearted, caring individual in adulthood. I know how HARD it can be to discern who needs to share each time, who started the fight, or who's the toy really is. Some tips that I've tried are:

--Setting a timer and taking turns. The one who takes the last turn gets a few minutes more time than the first person. Older ones latch on to this, and realize if they let the other go first, they actually get a little benefit! Sometimes we set the timer three or four times before they get done taking turns with a certain toy. --Another tip (and a hard one too) is consistency. Make it your goal to ALWAYS intervene a fight. Always work through it until they are again at peace.

--Praise them abundantly when you see them sharing and taking turns and getting along.

--Above all, cry out to God for wisdom, every day, every moment, every conflict you face. He has promised to help us train His precious gems! James 5:1 If any of you lack wisdom, let him ask of God, that giveth to all men liberally....and it shall be given him! -Kim, mom of 3

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This problem is that age old sin problem of selfishness which still affects us all and the more we can train it out of our little ones the farther ahead they will be.

--Speak kindness to them often throughout the day ~ "precept upon precept, line upon line as we sit in our house, walk by the way and when we lie down and rise up".

--As you give them a snack say, "You have two crackers and let's share two crackers with the other sibling". --When they play, stay close by to hear their words and interaction--when you hear unkind or selfish words quickly respond actively and proactively by getting involved on the floor and saying let's SHARE this toy, you have it for a turn and then SHARE it with little brother.

--If they selfishly ask or get something and then want to discard it in a few minutes after the fight or control to get it is over, I will often require them to play with it for a set time.

--Show them how to share and to live with an open hand on their things.

--Check ourselves. Are we selfish and unkind in our time, actions or tone of voice with them or our husbands?

--Be diligent and consistently (a very needful thing in my life and home right now with my children is that one word CONSISTENT--if it matters today, make sure that it matters tomorrow)

--Discipline for selfishness and unkindness and you will be greatly rewarded with a loving, happy home.

Carol, mother of 8

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I have a bit of an answer to the statement "That's Mine". We often answer," Yes, that is yours. May they play with it or use it for awhile?" If they forget to ask for it, we remind them to ask for it. It's amazing how often the owner will say yes. Also ask how long can it be used by the other person. (A timer may be useful in returning it on time so that mother doesn't need to watch the clock.) We have certain things that dont need to be shared. It is the items that are extra special to them.

--Having little ones in our home that are slow to learn and speak,( as the two year old we have now) we found it was exciting to hear her say "mine" a few weeks ago. Hearing that she had met another milestone in learning possession was important to us.

--Too many times in bygone years I think I saw the negative more than the positive side of my children's development. Teaching respect to little ones is as important as to older age children. Audrey, Mother of adopted, birth and foster children

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Since I am one of those mothers that likes this section of the newsletter, maybe I had better respond. The reason I don't respond more is because I tend to have some of the same problems and I'm looking for answers from "the rest". I don't think I have any pat answers, but may I make just a few suggestions on

how to get your children to be less territorial? As I was doing my work yesterday this question kept running through my mind. Here are some thoughts that came to me.

I see that you are a mother of seven, so it seems like something the children would get used to.

1) Sometimes it is up to us as parents to enforce this "sharing" habit. Take the child who took this particular item without asking, and discuss with him/her if that is something he likes for his brother/sister to do to him. We can teach the Golden Rule. "Whatsoever ye would that your brother do to you, do you to him also" (paraphrased). "So, if you don't want him to take it without asking, neither should you take it without asking. So, can you right here and now ask if you can play with it?" If the brother says "no" sometimes we as parents need to enforce this "no", teaching them to respect each other's desires. "Not this time. Maybe in a half hour you can." More than likely 'brother' won't care so much in a half hour.

2) If 'sister' always claims "that's mine", there is a time when mother must say, "Okay, daughter, you must learn to share. Now it is time that you let brother play with it." Perhaps you want to set a timer. Setting a timer helps the child to realize this thing is not given to her sibling. It will soon become hers again. I have found timers to be an excellent source for control. If sister makes a fuss and screams or throws a fit, then a "time away" or bedroom talk may be in order.

3) Children must be taught to respect other people's property. Maybe the reason why 'sister' never wants 'brother' to play with her things is because 'brother' is reckless with things. In this case, perhaps the only way he should be allowed to play with it is if he is under your direct supervision. So the lesson(s) here would be to: a) share anyway, and b) to handle other's things carefully.

Children are happiest if they learn to respect each other and learn to share. Happy mothering!!

Elizabeth mother of 5

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We have had ten to thirteen year olds in our home from the city a lot. Since they were not from Christian homes and were taught so very little of what we take for granted, I often felt at a loss to know what to do to keep peace. This is the thing that worked the best for me:

--If the item was their own, they did have the right to have it.

--I tried to praise them very liberally every time they would share.

--If the item was more or less everyone's, and if they were arguing, I would take the item away with the only explanation that this kind of attitude and arguing was not acceptable in our house. I would walk away from the situation and any protesting was to stop. They learned that it was not worth arguing over who had it first or whose turn it was.

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Well, I don't know that I am an expert by any means, but I have raised 7 children (now grown), did licensed daycare for thirty years, and raised a few "strays" here and there over the years.

--My thought is that each child (our own or daycare) that is in our household on a daily basis, needs their "own" stuff. Something that is special just for them. It might be a teddy bear, or something else, but nobody else may play with it without express permission from that child.

--Then there are the things that are to be shared. Sometimes we run into a special toy that everyone wants to play with (at the same time). I used to set a timer, when the buzzer went off it was the next persons' turn. NO ARGUING, and keep it going until everyone had a turn.

--Children just seem to need their own space sometimes, maybe to curl up and read a book, or play dolls, or farm animals (the kind that get caught up in the vacuum cleaner). 🙂 I tried to have nooks and crannies for this at my house. Thats one thing I did, though most people maybe wouldnt. 🙂 Sometimes I had up to 11 children at once. For the older (above toddler) ones I gave them each a blanket or sheet. They spread it in a spot on the floor. That was their "house, barn, garage, campsite, or whatever else they pretended it to be". Nobody invaded someone else's territory. (they did VISIT each other though). Yes it caused a lot of daily laundry and looked awful if someone walked in, but it worked.

--I also had stack bins (could be boxes, plastic potato bins, etc.) with each ones' name on them. That was where gloves, jackets, our pre-school work for the day, etc. went. When they were ready to leave that day they got their stuff from the bin. Nancy Turner [email protected]

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On the question for this month, I was thinking it may be helpful to reaffirm the fact that everything we have belongs to God and that he has just given these things to us as gifts to enjoy for a time. When the children begin to show their possessive spirit a gentle reminder of, "Who do your toys really belong to?" and "Who has given these toys to you to enjoy?" may bring them back to their senses and help them to think more rationally.

~~~~~

Would you believe it? I have a number of more responses to this question.

Theyre wonderful. Ill add them into next months newsletter.

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Treats From Tots

Please send delightful lines from your children to [email protected]

I think I could probably supply you with something every month from the mouth of Tyler (9)! Anyway, here is a touching story that just happened over spring break.

My oldest son went to Florida over spring break. One evening after he had been gone for several days the phone rang pretty late in the evening. Everyone was in bed but my husband and me. I made the comment, "I wonder if that is Chris." About that time a little boy bounded out of bed and headed down the hallway. Sure enough it was Chris calling. My husband was talking to him, and pretty soon he said, "I think someone picked up on another phone. Tyler is that you?" Tyler came around the corner looking rather sheepishly and said, "I just wanted to hear his voice!" When I related the story to Chris later when I was talking to him on the phone, I expected him to laugh. There was just a moment of silence, I think he was even more touched than I was! Janet, mother of 4

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We just had our 4th child Wayne. Two days later my oldest son Japheth (3) noticing that he was always wrapped up in the same white receiving blanket asked me, " Did you grow that blanket too?" Aimee, mother of 4

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One morning I was packing lunches for the school children. I was layering sandwich items on the bread slices, when Ricky (Grade Five) came up to me, sniffed appreciatively, and declared, "Oh, that meat looks so good it has me smellbound." Danette, mother of 4

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Missionary Wives Prayer Line

This months missionary wife is Leona serving the Lord in Romania with her husband Matthew. They have three children, Hadassah (4), Marcus (3) and Jared (5 months).

Her prayer requests are:

1. The grace and power of God to be a Wife and Mother "after God's own heart" .

2. Wisdom to know how to wisely divide my time with our three children (oldest being 4 yrs. old) and at the same time be "there" for thirty (mostly teenage) girls who long to 'belong.

3. Physical strength and energy to meet the daily challenges we face.

4. Understanding to know how to respond to the many questions and needs of the orphanage children. Thank you for caring and praying; it is our Source of Strength and Wisdom.

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I just received your newsletter for the first time and was delighted to see a prayer request for the month for a missionary sister. I wrote her name down with the requests. I'll stick it in my Bible and pray for her nightly. It's nice to feel that you can pray effectively for someone with specific requests. Thank you to these dear ladies for sharing their personal needs. Renee, mother of 6

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From You

Send your hints, tips, comments to [email protected].

Onion Odor ~ After peeling and chopping onions, run your hands under cold water, then rub them back and forth on your chrome faucet for a few seconds. The onion odor will be gone!

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Dishwasher Savings ~ To save on electric and water only run your dishwasher when full. When adding dishes take a handful of baking soda and sprinkle the dishes and bottom of dishwasher to absorb odors. When you run the dishwasher there is no need to add detergent to the first cycle receptacle - only to the 2nd one that stays shut until the second cycle starts. The baking soda will take the place of the detergent in the first cycle.

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These tips came from: (Lois Breneman Editor of Heart to Heart Newsletter designed to) bring godly and practical encouragement to women through creative ideas for the Christian family. You may receive this bimonthly newsletter by sending your name, city, state, country and the name of the person who referred you to "mailto:[email protected]".

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Comments from Newsletter readers

Your last newsletter was so good for me. I forwarded it to lots of friends and family. Arleta, mother of 2

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Booklets

These 6 - 8 page booklets contain past newsletter articles according to their title. In each booklet there is also a poem, hymn, tip, memory verse and/or comments from newsletter readers about the article.

Each booklet sells for $2.00 or mix and match any titles of 4 or more for $1.75. Postage for one booklet is .37. It goes down for each additional booklet.

Again, you may email your order to [email protected]. Ill send an invoice with your order. The booklets I have available so far are as follows:

Rekindling Love

A Holy Place

Filling Love Tanks

Hiding the Word

Back to School

The White Ceramic Nativity

A Waiting Heart

Grumbling or Grateful

Fathers Day

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Until next time. God Bless

Donna Kauffman

4123 Kinsman Road

N. Bloomfield, OH 44450

440-693-4070

[email protected]

[email protected]

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Posted by: homenews <homenews@...>

Dear Hope Chest friends,

I am preparing the Mother's Day issue of the Hope Chest to be sent out in a few days. In the meantime, I thought you might enjoy reading "Treasures >From My Heart to Yours" by Donna Kauffman.

Blessings,

Virginia Knowles

http://www.TheHopeChest.net

Treasures From My Heart to Yours

Free email newsletter reaching over 600 women.

Offering encouragement to mothers, grandmothers and great grandmothers

Editor: Donna Kauffman

Author: Treasures From a Mothers Heart,

The Treasure of Careful Planning--Enjoy the Gift of Organization,

Treasures From a Waiting Heart--Experiencing His Healing Presence

[email protected]

http://www.djkauffman.com

4123 Kinsman Road

N. Bloomfield, OH 44450

440-693-4070

Volume 3 #5 May 2005

_____________________________________________________________________________

* If you ever send a note to me and I do not respond, please try again. There seem to be kinks in the system.

* To change an email address please send both your old and new address. Thank you.

* This newsletter is from you as well as myself. When you send comments, ideas, suggestions, questions or answers for the newsletter, please tell me if its ok to add your name with your comment. I like to also put in the number of children you have. Thank you.

Gracing Mothers and Daughters With Gifts of Encouragement

In praising or loving a child,

We love and praise not that which is,

But that which we hope for.

Goethe

Did you know that nearly every mother in this country has a dream to see her little girl grow to be wise, successful and godly -- but few see their dreams come true? I believe that one effective method we can use to move toward realizing our dream is lavishing gifts of encouragement into our daughters hearts. Moms and daughters alike are motivated when handed lush boxes filled with encouraging words.

Picture yourself with me in a delicately decorated room. The soft colors display assorted pinks and lavenders. Sitting on tables spread with silky cloths are numerous vases of lavender hyacinths and pink tulips. Among the furnishings several pink and lavender votive candles are aglow, sending forth gentle flames, flickering with warmth. Nestled here and there are various sizes and shapes of finely wrapped gift boxes. Each one is attired in different shades of pink and lavender. All are graced delightfully with bows of many shapes, styles and colors which are mellow and pleasing. Wrapped within the confines of each box are words of encouragement. In this marvelous array of pink and lavender delights, the tulips and hyacinths waft forth soothing, gentle scents.

Tucked among all this quietness, like a bleeding heart, another vase displays a rugged, browned, scraggly hyacinth thats journeyed through weeks of harsh winds, snow storms and hail. Instead of crystal clear water, it was fed murky green grease and slimy oils. The grief of its negligent care has taken its toll. The fragrance is stale, the colors are dismal, the meant to be beautiful blooms are tattered and beaten. Ladies, if a woman, young or old, is not graced with kind words, gentleness and warmth, their spirit also withers and dies. They take on the form of the miserable hyacinth.

Can you pick from the stash of pink and lavender gift boxes a large assortment? Inside each one write encouraging notes to your daughters, mothers, sisters, granddaughters and grandmothers. Write with boldness. Share all the positive thoughts youve ever encountered about each of these favorite women in your life. Take those beautifully wrapped treasures, place the name to whom it belongs under the bow and pass out your pink and lavender boxes.

Gottfried R. VonKronenberger says, Encouragement through praise is the most effective method of getting people to do their best.

Encouraging words bring life. Negative words bring despair. We can pass along beautiful pink and lavender gift boxes, tied up with delightful bows, to all the important ladies in our life--especially our lovely daughters. As we spread the fragrance of encouraging words, well likely find were much closer to seeing the fulfillment of our dreams for their young precious lives.

Your Friend,

Donna

Proverbs 31:26

Mothers Day Sale

Month of May

Books

*Treasures From A Mothers heart: $11.99, four or more $11.00 each. Sale Price: $10.00 ea.

*The Treasure of Careful Planning: $7.99, four or more $7.00 each. Sale Price: $6.50 ea.

*Treasures From a Waiting Heart: $9.50, four or more $8.50 each. Sale Price: $8.50 ea.

Treasures From a Waiting Heart

--Experiencing His Healing Presence

As you follow Donnas candid story of struggle, failure and self effort, you will identify. As you witness the redemption, healing and freedom that the loving Father abundantly poured out on her repentant heart, you will long. Donna shares the priceless treasures she has gathered at the feet of her loving Father, waiting for His healing and the heart transformation she longed for. Read with your heart, read with a hunger. The Fathers arms are open wide. Hope Byler

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Comments From Others:

I just received your book in the mail and scanned through it. It has set my mind in action and I can feel already that I am going to be changed through your book and experiences. Please pray for me as I work through situations in my life and come to know Christ in a deeper and more intimate way then ever before! He has already been at work, and I want to go deeper and more fuller in my love and devotion to Him.

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Thank you from the depths of my closets! I needed the encouragement and practical pointers on decluttering my house from last months newsletter. I just read your book, Treasures From a Waiting Heart, and I so appreciated the inspiration calling me to declutter my heart as well.

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Treasures From a Mothers Heart

Four years ago I sat down to work on my new years goals. I didnt get very far until I felt too ill to continue. The one goal I had written down was that I desired to find a treasure in every day of the new year.

In the evening Bob took me to the hospital. Over the next nine days as I lay wavering between life and death--in my deepest, darkest moments, the word treasures kept surfacing. With that word the Lord brought a special blessing to my drugged mind. I longed to feel well enough to write the treasures down. A few days after I returned home I remembered some of those special messages the Lord had given me while in the hospital. I began to write. Treasures from the present, back through my daughters growing up years, and way back into my childhood flowed from my pen. And many of those treasures had a inspirational message woven in and through the memory.

From that experience my book Treasures From a Mothers Heart was born. Many of the short memory type stories in the book have included a quote, verse of scripture and an inspirational message making it a type of devotional book for mothers.

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Comments From Others:

It was so good to hear and feel your heart come through your book. Thanks for sharing... having the courage... taking the time... being transparent... as you wrote your story. May your book be a blessing to many as it was to me.

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I would recommend your book to any young mother. You had neat ideas when your children were young.

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The Treasure of Careful Planning

This book tells the story of how the Lord met me during a very low time in my early mothering years. The message He unfolded has changed my life from that day until today. Youll learn to determine your purpose for being on this earth, and numerous ideas on organizing your life in a way that youll have more time to accomplish your purpose than you imagined.

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Comments From Others:

I would like to order four copies of The Treasure of Careful Planning. I really enjoyed this book, especially the organized way of doing "spring" cleaning. Trying to clean all at once looks overwhelming to me! I'm still trying to incorporate the ideas into my daily schedule. The rooms I have done give me satisfaction and courage to keep plugging away on the rest.

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You can order my books at [email protected]. Ill send an invoice with your order. You may mail a check or money order when you receive the invoice.

Shipping for one book is $1.50 each. In Canada, $1.75. If you purchase more than one book the shipping cost is less per book.

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From the scriptures -- to memorize

That they may teach the young women to be sober, to love their husbands, to love their children,

to be discreet, chaste, keepers at home, good, obedient to their own husbands,

that the Word of God be not blasphemed.

Titus 2:4,5

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Poem

Please send your poetry about family life and Ill print it.

My Daughter . . . .

by Hope Byler 4/26/05

My Daughter . . .

by Hope Byler

When I was a little girl,

our family picture stood silently

among other treasures

on my parents dresser.

There I was -

braided and freckled,

with uncertain smile.

And today --

I gasp

as I glimpse you

so closely duplicating

that little girl

called me.

No one has so uncannily

shown me myself

as you have . . .

A delightful -

and sometimes dizzying mix -

of feminine graces,

wiles,

notions,

and dreams . . .

you have brought into our home

a touch of heaven.

To watch you blossom

into the flower of womanhood

has captured a place

among the most delightful

of motherhoods joys.

Now a young lady of 16,

your delicate femininity,

unquenchable cheerfulness,

boundless energy,

and most importantly -

your hungry pursuit of God -

cause a glow

in recesses of my heart so deep

that only God can see.

And as Mary,

I keep all these things

and ponder them in my heart,

standing breathless with you

on the brink of life -

waiting to see

what God is up to.

In the warmth of my womb

you experienced

your first safe home. . .

and now,

my daughter,

may you know,

as you step into womanhood,

that there will always remain for you

in the warmth of my heart

another safe home.

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An Encouragement Message, in Music

for busy moms

Raising a Family

You know as mommies, the Lord has given each of us a high and noble calling. But sometimes in the midst of that calling, we are face-to-face with the reality of runny noses, sticky floors, crying babies, and no more energy to do much about it. I know for myself as a mother of 6 children, (with 4 under 5 yrs of age), I have "those days!" Sometimes, the mountain looms awfully large. That's when the encouragement of others who have already walked this way means so much. The understanding of those still walking the same path helps to reassure us that we are still sane. If you are a mommy in the heat of the battle, allow me to introduce you to a brand-new release "Raising a Family" by Mt Stream Melodies. The desire of the busy moms who recorded this tape is to bless and encourage other moms, to lift them up in their calling and grant fresh courage to wives and mommies. I was moved to tears as I listened to these three friends share from their hearts in song. -Doris from Pa

Mt.Stream Melodies, Raising a Family can be ordered from Ken and Marilyn Rutt (717) 626-0428 or contact them at [email protected].

Tapes are $9.50 CD's $12.50 (tax included)

There is a substantial discount when you order a larger amount.

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From the Recipe Box

Back by popular interest

Feel free to send your recipes

Spiced Up Minute Steaks

6 All Beef Minute Steaks

1 T butter

¾ T Old Bay Seasoning

1 ½ tsp Garlic Powder

½ tsp Onion Salt

½ tsp Ground Black Pepper

6 slices of Provolone or American Cheese

1 C of your favorite spaghetti or marinara sauce

Parmesan Cheese (optional)

Combine Old Bay Seasoning, garlic powder, onion salt and black pepper. Lay out minute steaks and lightly sprinkle on seasonings. Melt butter in pan and cook steaks according to package instructions. Drain and lightly pat steaks with paper towel. Lay a piece of cheese on each steak, and then roll them up together. Put in a microwaveable glass dish. Then cut each roll into 3 or 4 pieces. Pour spaghetti or marinara sauce over rolled steaks. Microwave on high until cheese is melted and sauce is heated through. Sprinkle on Parmesan cheese and serve.

Note: Provolone Cheese gives this dish an Italian taste, American cheese gives it a more cheeseburger taste. Experiment with other cheeses. My husband just raved about this dishI had to make it twice that week

Submitted by Lisa G.

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Question for the Month

Please send your questions and responses to [email protected].

The question for this month is:

I have a 29 month old boy who I'm desperately trying to potty train. He doesn't seem to have much interest. I started early - like at 9 months putting him on the potty chair when he got up in the morning and after naps, sometimes he went sometimes not. And I've been increasing the time on the potty ever since. I have no trouble getting him to come sit on the potty, but he hasn't really starting telling me he has to go. I even wore training pants with rubber pants so he could feel when he gets wet, but it doesn't help. I also tried sitting him on the 'big potty'. Any suggestions for motivating him? He does get 4 little M&Ms if he goes on the potty, but that doesn't seem to be much motivation - sometimes he goes and even forgets about the candy afterwards.

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The question for the last two months:

Have you any thoughts on how to get children to stop being territorial? My children are forever saying, "That's mine! Or you didn't ask so you can't use it!" Even if they are not interested in playing with whatever the other person has, they just don't want anyone else to have it--the next day they could care less if got thrown out. It seems to be a control issue or something. It's driving us crazy!! Any help would be appreciated!! Lani, mother of 7

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Answers:

I've been thinking of the "territorial" question and if I'd have an answer, I could have responded before. I'd love to have an answer to help me! There are a few things Ive tried, however, that seem to work some. -------Have them take turns., five minutes each and use a timer.

--If it is an item that a younger sibling could damage, encourage the older child to keep it in a hidden place, out of temptations way. Also works with their individual stash of candy, gum, etc. That's not teaching them to share, but that can be taught as they bring out that "stash" in their own time and sharing is not so forced on them.

--Be a good example and explain to them the joy of sharing our things with our friends as an adult instead of acting stingy as we may feel sometimes. Donna, mother of 4

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Think about your children 10-15 years from now. I really doubt we will ever be sorry we encouraged a child to share and give up his rights/territory. But many a parent has regretted that they didn't enforce kindness more. We live in a world where our rights are protected and promoted, and yet in order to live at peace with others and God we need to be willing to yield those rights. And the younger we learn this, the easier it is. Begin instilling these habits in a one year old, and you will have a tenderhearted, caring individual in adulthood. I know how HARD it can be to discern who needs to share each time, who started the fight, or who's the toy really is. Some tips that I've tried are:

--Setting a timer and taking turns. The one who takes the last turn gets a few minutes more time than the first person. Older ones latch on to this, and realize if they let the other go first, they actually get a little benefit! Sometimes we set the timer three or four times before they get done taking turns with a certain toy. --Another tip (and a hard one too) is consistency. Make it your goal to ALWAYS intervene a fight. Always work through it until they are again at peace.

--Praise them abundantly when you see them sharing and taking turns and getting along.

--Above all, cry out to God for wisdom, every day, every moment, every conflict you face. He has promised to help us train His precious gems! James 5:1 If any of you lack wisdom, let him ask of God, that giveth to all men liberally....and it shall be given him! -Kim, mom of 3

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This problem is that age old sin problem of selfishness which still affects us all and the more we can train it out of our little ones the farther ahead they will be.

--Speak kindness to them often throughout the day ~ "precept upon precept, line upon line as we sit in our house, walk by the way and when we lie down and rise up".

--As you give them a snack say, "You have two crackers and let's share two crackers with the other sibling". --When they play, stay close by to hear their words and interaction--when you hear unkind or selfish words quickly respond actively and proactively by getting involved on the floor and saying let's SHARE this toy, you have it for a turn and then SHARE it with little brother.

--If they selfishly ask or get something and then want to discard it in a few minutes after the fight or control to get it is over, I will often require them to play with it for a set time.

--Show them how to share and to live with an open hand on their things.

--Check ourselves. Are we selfish and unkind in our time, actions or tone of voice with them or our husbands?

--Be diligent and consistently (a very needful thing in my life and home right now with my children is that one word CONSISTENT--if it matters today, make sure that it matters tomorrow)

--Discipline for selfishness and unkindness and you will be greatly rewarded with a loving, happy home.

Carol, mother of 8

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I have a bit of an answer to the statement "That's Mine". We often answer," Yes, that is yours. May they play with it or use it for awhile?" If they forget to ask for it, we remind them to ask for it. It's amazing how often the owner will say yes. Also ask how long can it be used by the other person. (A timer may be useful in returning it on time so that mother doesn't need to watch the clock.) We have certain things that dont need to be shared. It is the items that are extra special to them.

--Having little ones in our home that are slow to learn and speak,( as the two year old we have now) we found it was exciting to hear her say "mine" a few weeks ago. Hearing that she had met another milestone in learning possession was important to us.

--Too many times in bygone years I think I saw the negative more than the positive side of my children's development. Teaching respect to little ones is as important as to older age children. Audrey, Mother of adopted, birth and foster children

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Since I am one of those mothers that likes this section of the newsletter, maybe I had better respond. The reason I don't respond more is because I tend to have some of the same problems and I'm looking for answers from "the rest". I don't think I have any pat answers, but may I make just a few suggestions on

how to get your children to be less territorial? As I was doing my work yesterday this question kept running through my mind. Here are some thoughts that came to me.

I see that you are a mother of seven, so it seems like something the children would get used to.

1) Sometimes it is up to us as parents to enforce this "sharing" habit. Take the child who took this particular item without asking, and discuss with him/her if that is something he likes for his brother/sister to do to him. We can teach the Golden Rule. "Whatsoever ye would that your brother do to you, do you to him also" (paraphrased). "So, if you don't want him to take it without asking, neither should you take it without asking. So, can you right here and now ask if you can play with it?" If the brother says "no" sometimes we as parents need to enforce this "no", teaching them to respect each other's desires. "Not this time. Maybe in a half hour you can." More than likely 'brother' won't care so much in a half hour.

2) If 'sister' always claims "that's mine", there is a time when mother must say, "Okay, daughter, you must learn to share. Now it is time that you let brother play with it." Perhaps you want to set a timer. Setting a timer helps the child to realize this thing is not given to her sibling. It will soon become hers again. I have found timers to be an excellent source for control. If sister makes a fuss and screams or throws a fit, then a "time away" or bedroom talk may be in order.

3) Children must be taught to respect other people's property. Maybe the reason why 'sister' never wants 'brother' to play with her things is because 'brother' is reckless with things. In this case, perhaps the only way he should be allowed to play with it is if he is under your direct supervision. So the lesson(s) here would be to: a) share anyway, and b) to handle other's things carefully.

Children are happiest if they learn to respect each other and learn to share. Happy mothering!!

Elizabeth mother of 5

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We have had ten to thirteen year olds in our home from the city a lot. Since they were not from Christian homes and were taught so very little of what we take for granted, I often felt at a loss to know what to do to keep peace. This is the thing that worked the best for me:

--If the item was their own, they did have the right to have it.

--I tried to praise them very liberally every time they would share.

--If the item was more or less everyone's, and if they were arguing, I would take the item away with the only explanation that this kind of attitude and arguing was not acceptable in our house. I would walk away from the situation and any protesting was to stop. They learned that it was not worth arguing over who had it first or whose turn it was.

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Well, I don't know that I am an expert by any means, but I have raised 7 children (now grown), did licensed daycare for thirty years, and raised a few "strays" here and there over the years.

--My thought is that each child (our own or daycare) that is in our household on a daily basis, needs their "own" stuff. Something that is special just for them. It might be a teddy bear, or something else, but nobody else may play with it without express permission from that child.

--Then there are the things that are to be shared. Sometimes we run into a special toy that everyone wants to play with (at the same time). I used to set a timer, when the buzzer went off it was the next persons' turn. NO ARGUING, and keep it going until everyone had a turn.

--Children just seem to need their own space sometimes, maybe to curl up and read a book, or play dolls, or farm animals (the kind that get caught up in the vacuum cleaner). 🙂 I tried to have nooks and crannies for this at my house. Thats one thing I did, though most people maybe wouldnt. 🙂 Sometimes I had up to 11 children at once. For the older (above toddler) ones I gave them each a blanket or sheet. They spread it in a spot on the floor. That was their "house, barn, garage, campsite, or whatever else they pretended it to be". Nobody invaded someone else's territory. (they did VISIT each other though). Yes it caused a lot of daily laundry and looked awful if someone walked in, but it worked.

--I also had stack bins (could be boxes, plastic potato bins, etc.) with each ones' name on them. That was where gloves, jackets, our pre-school work for the day, etc. went. When they were ready to leave that day they got their stuff from the bin. Nancy Turner [email protected]

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On the question for this month, I was thinking it may be helpful to reaffirm the fact that everything we have belongs to God and that he has just given these things to us as gifts to enjoy for a time. When the children begin to show their possessive spirit a gentle reminder of, "Who do your toys really belong to?" and "Who has given these toys to you to enjoy?" may bring them back to their senses and help them to think more rationally.

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Would you believe it? I have a number of more responses to this question.

Theyre wonderful. Ill add them into next months newsletter.

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Treats From Tots

Please send delightful lines from your children to [email protected]

I think I could probably supply you with something every month from the mouth of Tyler (9)! Anyway, here is a touching story that just happened over spring break.

My oldest son went to Florida over spring break. One evening after he had been gone for several days the phone rang pretty late in the evening. Everyone was in bed but my husband and me. I made the comment, "I wonder if that is Chris." About that time a little boy bounded out of bed and headed down the hallway. Sure enough it was Chris calling. My husband was talking to him, and pretty soon he said, "I think someone picked up on another phone. Tyler is that you?" Tyler came around the corner looking rather sheepishly and said, "I just wanted to hear his voice!" When I related the story to Chris later when I was talking to him on the phone, I expected him to laugh. There was just a moment of silence, I think he was even more touched than I was! Janet, mother of 4

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We just had our 4th child Wayne. Two days later my oldest son Japheth (3) noticing that he was always wrapped up in the same white receiving blanket asked me, " Did you grow that blanket too?" Aimee, mother of 4

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One morning I was packing lunches for the school children. I was layering sandwich items on the bread slices, when Ricky (Grade Five) came up to me, sniffed appreciatively, and declared, "Oh, that meat looks so good it has me smellbound." Danette, mother of 4

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Missionary Wives Prayer Line

This months missionary wife is Leona serving the Lord in Romania with her husband Matthew. They have three children, Hadassah (4), Marcus (3) and Jared (5 months).

Her prayer requests are:

1. The grace and power of God to be a Wife and Mother "after God's own heart" .

2. Wisdom to know how to wisely divide my time with our three children (oldest being 4 yrs. old) and at the same time be "there" for thirty (mostly teenage) girls who long to 'belong.

3. Physical strength and energy to meet the daily challenges we face.

4. Understanding to know how to respond to the many questions and needs of the orphanage children. Thank you for caring and praying; it is our Source of Strength and Wisdom.

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I just received your newsletter for the first time and was delighted to see a prayer request for the month for a missionary sister. I wrote her name down with the requests. I'll stick it in my Bible and pray for her nightly. It's nice to feel that you can pray effectively for someone with specific requests. Thank you to these dear ladies for sharing their personal needs. Renee, mother of 6

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From You

Send your hints, tips, comments to [email protected].

Onion Odor ~ After peeling and chopping onions, run your hands under cold water, then rub them back and forth on your chrome faucet for a few seconds. The onion odor will be gone!

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Dishwasher Savings ~ To save on electric and water only run your dishwasher when full. When adding dishes take a handful of baking soda and sprinkle the dishes and bottom of dishwasher to absorb odors. When you run the dishwasher there is no need to add detergent to the first cycle receptacle - only to the 2nd one that stays shut until the second cycle starts. The baking soda will take the place of the detergent in the first cycle.

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These tips came from: (Lois Breneman Editor of Heart to Heart Newsletter designed to) bring godly and practical encouragement to women through creative ideas for the Christian family. You may receive this bimonthly newsletter by sending your name, city, state, country and the name of the person who referred you to "mailto:[email protected]".

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Comments from Newsletter readers

Your last newsletter was so good for me. I forwarded it to lots of friends and family. Arleta, mother of 2

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Booklets

These 6 - 8 page booklets contain past newsletter articles according to their title. In each booklet there is also a poem, hymn, tip, memory verse and/or comments from newsletter readers about the article.

Each booklet sells for $2.00 or mix and match any titles of 4 or more for $1.75. Postage for one booklet is .37. It goes down for each additional booklet.

Again, you may email your order to [email protected]. Ill send an invoice with your order. The booklets I have available so far are as follows:

Rekindling Love

A Holy Place

Filling Love Tanks

Hiding the Word

Back to School

The White Ceramic Nativity

A Waiting Heart

Grumbling or Grateful

Fathers Day

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Until next time. God Bless

Donna Kauffman

4123 Kinsman Road

N. Bloomfield, OH 44450

440-693-4070

[email protected]

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