Christian Military Wives Blog Central

Our New Site!

2009-07-29T10:50:00.000-07:00

Please be sure to visit our new CHRISTIAN MILITARY WIVES website! There you will find our video/text chat, discussion board, online magazine, blog area and so much more!

See you there!

Great Contest!

2009-07-01T11:01:00.001-07:00

We wanted to pass this wonderful contest on to our members... thank you to Mom4Life.Com for this terrific contest!

Being a mom is a rewarding but tough job! Being a mom in a military family carries with it added blessings and difficulties. We want to honor the MANY sacrifices being made by these behind the scenes heroes around the country and let you know that WE APPRICIATE YOU!

During the month of July any mom that is a military wife or is enlisted herself is encouraged to enter to win this amazing selection of USA made products valued at over $834.00 (shown below)!

The first 30 military wives/moms to enter will automatically win a pair of USA Flag BabyLegs!

Most of us have no idea what it is like to be in your position as a military wife or mother. Please share with us any one or more of the following:

Something that has been really meaningful to you (i.e. this could be something someone has said or did or something someone in your family has done, etc)
Something that you struggle with.
What makes you most proud.
What a particular challenge is for you.
A way that other moms could be a better support.

There are two ways you an share this info with us:

You can create a video and upload it to YouTube and email us a link.
or
Send us an email answering one or more of the questions above along with a photo of you.

We will post the entries on this page and by July 24th. On that date we will open up the voting. Customers, family and friends will be encouraged to come back and vote for the video or story that they want to win. The winner will be chosen on July 31 and announced in our August Newsletter (as well as being contacted personally).

Bebe Bella Designs Minky Chenille Booties
(you choose the color)
Retail price: $20.00

Belmama Bundle
Belmama and Cherub's The Shower Hug, Original Burp Cloths and Wash Cloths Set
You choose colors and size
Retail Price: $79.95

Blush {your topless undershirt}
You choose the size and style
Retail price: $16.99-$20.00

The Diaper Clutch
you choose style
Retail price: $22.99

Cozy Cocoon Body Sock
(you choose the size and style)
Retail price: $26.00-$144.00

Lil'Dressers Drawer Labels for Kids by Mostly Organized Moms
(you choose boy or girl style)
Retail price: $12.99

Melinda G Tee-Shirt Soft-Cup Nursing Bra
(you choose the size)
Retail price: $40.00

My Gooling Body Pillows and Tote by Hedy's Creations
(you choose the style)
Retail price: $39.00

The Nursing Bracelet Feeding Log by Unique Mums
(you choose color)
Retail Price: $29.95-$64.95

Nursing Pillow by Cuddoozle
(you choose fabric)
Retail Price: $64.00

OnTray 2Go Multifunctional Container
(you choose the color)
Retail price: $9.99

Parking Pal Magnetic Hand Print for the Car
(You choose the style)
Retail price: $7.99

Patriotic T-Shirts and Shoulder Lap Creepers by Wholesale Kid
(You choose 3 styles and sizes)
Retail Price: $44.85

Peekaru Ozone™ UV and UVB Protective Baby Carrier Cover
(you choose the color)
Retail price: $44.95

Pinkies & Piggies Personlized Glass Keepsakes Kit
(you personlize)
Retail price: $69.99

Planet Wise Wet/Dry Bag
(Your chose the style)
Retail price: $21.00

SafetyTat™ Quick Stick Write-On! Kids' Temporary Tattoo
6 pack (you choose the style)
Retail price: $9.95

Seat Belt Release Protector
Retail price: $9.99

Stroller Suspenders for Baby's Blanket
Black color
Retail price: $9.99

SwaddleDesisgns Ultimate Receiving Blanket
(Little Star style, you choose red or blue)
Retail price: $23.95

The Cover-Me Nursing Strap
(your choose the style)
Retail price: $12.00

The Love Handle® Child Walking Tether by Liberté Apparel
(You choose the color/style)
Retail price: $48.00-$55.00

Twinkle Baby Bonding Doll
(You choose the fabric/color)
Retail price: $18.00-$24.00

Yaya Blankets Customizable Rag Quilts
(size small with personalization, you customize)
Retail price: $24.95

Christina & Shawn Get Married

2009-06-26T16:06:00.000-07:00

Thursday, July 2, at 8 p.m on TNT. (ET/PT)

After almost five years of being engaged, Christina and Shawn started to think their wedding would never happen. Each time the two Army captains tried to set a date, one them would get shipped overseas to serve in Iraq. Working with the military and the Catholic Church, WEDDING DAY arranged to fly the couple home for a wedding they’ll never forget. The day includes the ceremony at the very church in which Christina’s parents got married; the New York Police Pipe and Drum Corp; a major donation to The Fallen Soldier Fund, a charity close to the couple’s heart; and a chance for Christina to trade in her fatigues for a couture wedding dress.

I've had the privledge of watching this episode before it has been shown on television. Wedding Day is amazing, I am normally not a fan of reality TV... but this show is clean, and uplifting. The entire family can watch it. It's not often, that the entire family can sit down to watch a show on TV... but, be assured - this television show is family friendly!

I know I could not help but tear up a couple of times. Especially when Christine was so emotional when she was told an insurance company would be donating $10,000 in their names to The Fallen Soldier Fund.

Be sure to set your DVR!

Not Forgotten

2009-06-15T08:15:00.000-07:00

I wanted to get this down before it slipped my mind... again. On Memorial day the girls asked why there was a sticker on their calendar. I explained VERY briefly about it. VERY briefly. I really thought they were a little young to "get it". Boy did they prove me wrong. We were driving down the road HOURS later and the oldest asked, "Will Daddy be like the soldiers we think about today? Will he have to die too since he is a soldier?"

Wow. You wanna talk hard? Try answering that one. I did and it brought up more questions, so I explained about freedom. I told them that lots of Mommies and Daddies are soldiers and go far away to fight for us and that Daddy joined so that one day he can take his turn and that will let another Daddy be home with his kids and that is part of the reason why we are so proud of Daddy.

The conversation kept going and has returned over the past few days. Just a random, hard to answer, question every now and then. But yesterday the youngest said, "Mommy, can we go see the soldiers who died for us?" I explained that they would be buried and she said she understood, but wanted to see them anyways. I was amazed.

How many times do we underestimate our children? Obviously I am quite guilty of that. I hope we are all helping raise a generation of children who will want to see "The soldiers who died for us" and that they will understand how blessed we are to live in this country.

Kristen Jeffery

Unspeakable Joy

2009-06-04T19:43:00.000-07:00

Whom having not seen, ye love; in whom, though now ye see him not, yet believing, ye rejoice with joy unspeakable and full of glory: (1 Peter 1:8)

This verse became a precious comfort to me when I was nineteen. I was very lonely, very single, and desperately wanting to be married. While I don’t know that my personal interpretation was exactly God’s intent when He wrote this Scripture, this verse filled me with hope. I knew that God wanted me to be married, but it seemed there were no possibilities in sight. Even though I did not know who my husband would be, I tried to focus on the fact that he was out there, somewhere, and believe in the fact that God would bring us together in His time. While I could not see him, I could begin to love him. It was this hope that gave me joy.

Now I’m a young woman married to a soldier. This verse took on a new meaning to me during this deployment. As military wives we are daily faced with the choice to love someone we cannot see, touch, and sometimes even talk to. The only thing that can sustain us during times of separation is our faith…faith that we will be together again someday soon. And it is this faith that gives us an “unspeakable joy” that allows us to smile even when our husbands are on the other side of the world.

When I turned the calendar to June, my joy-meter skyrocketed. My husband’s return is now eminent and I have begun frenzied homecoming preparations! As I look back over the last eleven months of my life, I am somewhat disappointed. I feel like I could have done so much better than I did, accomplished more, had a better attitude, the list could go on. But one thing I have no doubt about…my faith has been strengthened. I have had a lot of low moments, probably more lows than highs, but I can remember specific times when God did fill me with unspeakable joy, and that joy was directly connected to my belief and faith.

God also gives us this verse as a reminder about the ultimate homecoming awaiting us…when our Saviour will return! Let us not forget to truly love Him even when it seems like we cannot see him.

No matter where you are in your journey as a wife of faith, whether it be just beginning a deployment, in the darkness of the unending middle of the deployment, planning for homecoming, or just living the ever difficult challenges of garrison life … I pray that this verse will be a comfort to you as it has been to me. May God fill you with unspeakable joy!

Written By: Aprille, Proud CMW Member

CMW Weekend Get Away

2009-05-22T10:48:00.000-07:00

Go to Sandy Cove Military Wives Weekend to register online!

Don't forget to check out the 50% scholarship! This means, prices start out at only $90. per person.

Child care is extra... but, well worth it!

Schedule subject to change to better serve you!

Friday
4:00

Registration and Check In
Pools & Hot Tub Open
Gift Shop, Treasure Chest, mini golf, marina, shuffle board, Fitness Center, etc.
4:00-7:00

Chair Massages ($16)
Mary Kay Facials & Pampering
5:30-6:30
Dinner Buffet
6:45-8:45
ClubCove Program for Children
7:00
Session 1: The Song in the Storm - Victoria & Frances
8:45
Snack
9:15
Concert with Frances Drost (Children are invited)
9:00-11:00

Pools and Hot Tub open
Chair Massages ($16)
Mary Kay Services

Saturday
7:00 AM
Water Aerobics with Sue Sabo
8:30
Breakfast Buffet
9:15-12:30
ClubCove Program for Children
9:30
Session 2: Struggle and Temptation - Victoria & Frances
11:00
Beverage Break
11:15
Session 3: Embracing the Military Lifestyle - Diana & Frances
12:30-1:30
Lunch Buffet
1:30

Optional Activities: (See descriptions above)
"Working Out-On Inside Things" Breakout Session by Frances Drost
Crocheted Rag-Rug Workshop ($20)
Massages ($16)
Mary Kay Facials & Pampering
Shuffle Board, Frisbee Golf, Mini Golf, Treasure Chest & Gift Shop open
1:00-5:00

Pools and Hot Tub open
Marina Rock Wall, Zipline, Big Swing
2:45 & 4:15
Ribbon Necklace Craft Workshop ($6)
3:30
Crocheted Rag-Rug Craft Workshop ($20)
5:30-6:30
Dinner Buffet
6:45-8:45
ClubCove Program for Children
7:00
Session 4: Overwhelmed-Regrets and Monotony - Victoria & Frances
8:45
Evening Snack
9:00-11:00

Pools and Hot Tub
Chair Massages ($16)
Mary Kay Services
9:15
Video TBD

Sunday
8:00-10:00 AM
Chair Massages ($16)
8:30-9:30
Breakfast Buffet
9:30
Check Out of Rooms
9:45-11:45
ClubCove Program for Children
10:00

Session 4: The Battle Belongs to the Lord - Victoria & Frances
~ A love offering for Sandy Cove will be taken at this session ~
11:30
Conclusion of conference

If anyone in the North Carolina area is interested in going, we may be able to car pool or shuttle. We need to know how many are interested in attending...
Email: info@christianmilitarywives.com if you are interested in attending this great event!

Memorial Day Weekend

2009-05-22T04:07:00.000-07:00

As we take time to have our BBQs and our get togethers this weekend, let us not forget the soldiers who died on behalf of our country. Let us remember their families, embracing them and letting them know how thankful we are also for their sacrifice.

Christian Military Wives Video

2009-05-20T13:51:00.001-07:00

Thank you, Aprille for putting together this video! :)

Spiritual Warfare And Military Families

2009-05-16T11:09:00.001-07:00

This morning, at church - our district pastor touched base on spiritual warfare. It really has me thinking... we need to have more people praying for Christian Military Wives and the families of those who volunteer for Christian Military Wives.

Every time Christian Military Wives has an advancement, it seems like something goes wrong within our family - causing stress levels to go up.

I didn't connect everything until this morning.

Christian Military Wives now has a pro bono lawyer working for us. He is doing all of the non-profit, 501c3 paper work for us. Shortly after his efforts began, my husband began having more health issues.

Christian Military Wives then had a web development company volunteer to design a fresh, new interactive website... the day that happened - and I began praising God was the day that we found out the Army wanted me to start taking my husband back into work daily (an hour there, an hour back) just for facial accountability. This was a stress to me, because that takes about 3 hours total a day that I feel is wasted. My husband has PTSD and it is aggrivated by the military enviornment, so please pray that the transition of going back to afternoon formation will go smooth for him, as a matter of fact - it would be wonderful if God could arrange it so he can continue on with phone check-in accountability.

There have been other things that have happened to our CMW members - such as marriage problems that are on the increase, parenting challenges, etc. I think this is Satin trying to stick his big nose into things.

Here's where I am now...

I am asking for prayer - our family has been under an enormous amount of stress. Please pray that God will lift our burdens, and that we can feel at peace. It feels so good doing Gods will, and Satin has used that against us. I have tried to pray by myself, but I now realize - we need help with this problem. We need people all around to start really praying for our ministry!

Please pray:

That God will protect our family as well as all CMW members from sickness and stress or any other tries Satin has up his sleeve that we may not even know about
That God places a shield of angels around us, so that we can continue on with His work

I really feel like there is a huge battle going on right now at Fort Bragg and in the military community. Families are breaking every day. Satin knows that the Christian Military Wives organization is out to specifically win military families to Christ - and he's not liking it.

Please pray that Satin will stay away from our military families - that God will open up opportunities to allow Christians to shine as testaments to these families who so much need him.

Sincerely,

Patti K.
Christian Military Wives - Founder

Prayer of Protection

2009-05-15T21:37:00.000-07:00

Dear Lord,

I lift my loved ones up to you. I pray that you would keep us from all harm. Watch over our lives. Watch over our coming and going, both now and forevermore. (Psalm 121:7,8)

Enable us to make you, the Most High, our dwelling. Be our refuge. Don't let any harm befall us, or any disaster come near our home. (Psalm 91:9,10)

Don't let us fear bad news. Make our hearts steadfast, trusting in you. (Psalm 112:7)

Spread your protection over us, Father, because we love your name and rejoice in you. Bless us and surround us with your favor as a shield. (Psalm 5:11)

Enable us to live in safety, and let no one make us afraid. (Ezekiel 34:28)

Cause all of our family members to listen to you. Make us live in safety and be at ease, without fear of harm. (Proverbs 1:33)

Let no weapon formed against us be able to prosper. (Isaiah 54:17)

Send your ministering angels to protect us. (Hebrews 1:14) Send your angels to encamp around us and deliver us. (Psalm 34:7)

Be a wall of fire around us, and our glory within. (Zechariah 2:5)

Be a shield around us. Bestow glory on us, and lift up our heads. (Psalm 3:3)

May we all love you, Lord, our strength. Be our rock, fortress, deliverer, shield, stronghold, and horn of our salvation. May we take refuge in you. (Psalm 18:2)

Please keep your eyes upon us, and be attentive to our prayers. (1 Peter 3:12)

In the name of Jesus we pray,
Amen

Jessica Gerald has been an elementary school teacher for over thirty years, and is the publisher of the website http://www.oldfashionedhomemaking.com.

Helping Single Soldiers at Fort Bragg (NC)

2009-05-12T03:52:00.000-07:00

Fayetteville Cares (Fayetteville NC) is working with a family readiness group to put together gift baskets for approximately 290 single soldiers returning from Iraq. These soldiers normally come back to an "empty" barracks after the deployment. In the barracks, two soldiers share a refrigerator, microwave, and bathroom. Four rooms share a washer and dryer. Our goal is to "stock" the barrack rooms with some basic items.

We are requesting the following items:

* Fast food gift certificates
* Loafs of Bread
* Bottled Water
* Individual bags chips (variety)
* Boxes of single serve cereal
* Plastic silverware
* Laundry Soap
* Boxes of Dryer Fabric Sheets
* Welcome Home Cards/Letters

Items can be dropped off at Single Source on 2919 Breezewood Ave (Behind Taco Bell) (3rd Floor of the Forum Bldg). Drop off between NOW and End of May.

Please contact Kalli Ziegler at 910-867-2276 or Kalli@KalliZiegler.com if you have any questions.

Thanks for your support.

Fayetteville, NC Free Class For Veterans 5/9/09

2009-05-08T17:05:00.000-07:00

FAYETTEVILLE, N.C. – Congressman Larry Kissell (NC-08) will host a Veterans Issues Clinic Saturday, May 9, from 1 p.m. - 3 p.m. at his Fayetteville Congressional office located at 6257 Raeford Rd. Suite 2, Fayetteville, N.C., 28304.

The clinic will address all aspects of Veterans Affairs claims from initial filing through the appeals process and what role the Congressional office can serve in helping veterans with the process. Congressional staff will be available to work with veterans on the issues facing them.

“We owe a debt of gratitude to all the veterans who’ve so gallantly served our country. They have sacrificed so much of themselves to protect and defend the United States,” Kissell said. “This clinic is an opportunity for our office to give them the help they need.”

Craig Kabatchnick, director of Veterans Law Clinic at North Carolina Central University, will be on hand to speak about VA claims. Kabatchnick served as Appellate Attorney, Senior Appellate Attorney, and Associate Special Assistant in the Department of Veterans Affairs, Office of General Counsel, Appellate Litigation Staff Group between 1990 and 1995.

For more information about the Veterans Issues Clinic, please contact the Fayetteville Congressional Office at 910-920-2070.

Free Scholarships For War Wounded Care Givers

2009-05-06T20:04:00.001-07:00

As of January 1, 2009 Operation Life Transformed was awarded 5,000 scholarships for the Computer Literacy Course!

Eligibility: War wounded caregivers, to include the primary caregiver, which could be a parent, grandparent, sibling, aunt or uncle, one scholarship per family.
Active duty members, active duty military spouses, to include the National Guard and Reserves.

Jump start your career by learning on-line,
at your own pace, and in your own home.
Courses are taught in English & Spanish
Scholarships are
completely free,
[no hidden cost] and
provided by Military to Medicine and
Operation Life Transformed.
This is our way of supporting our military
families and the community.
Course Outline
Approximately 70 hours,
self-paced and online
Unit 1-Hardware
Unit 2- Operating Systems
Unit 3-Network
Unit 4-The Internet
Unit 5-Desktop Publishing
Unit 6-Spreadsheets
Unit 7-Databases
Unit 8-Presentations
Unit 9-Web Design

Helping educate today's military spouses, transitioning
veterans, veterans, and war wounded caregivers for tomorrow's workforce.

For more information or to apply for a scholarship, please visit us online at http://lifetransformed.org . Fill out our application and forward all paperwork to students@lifetransformed.org

Visit Operation Life Transformed!

Shelly Won Our April Contest!

2009-05-01T07:16:00.000-07:00

Congradulations to Shelly, she is our April Message Board Contest Winner! She won a $5 gift card to Starbucks!

President's Volunteer Service Awards - 2009

2009-04-26T11:25:00.000-07:00

President Obama has signed a letter of recognition for those qualifying for a presidential service awards. As a result, we are now fulfilling award requests for 2009 service hours. Thank you for your patience as we have managed through this time of transition. We look forward to fulfilling your requests especially as we celebrate National Volunteer Week.

Make sure you check out the main website for more information on how you can earn awards for your volunteer service to Christian Military Wives.

Fayetteville, NC Upcoming Meeting

2009-04-20T14:59:00.001-07:00

Dear Wives of Warriors,

It's time for our next meeting! This Saturday, April 25th at 10:00am-12:00pm. At Manna church in the education building. Please email me the number of children and their ages needing childcare. It is $3.00 per child.

The first hour will be a time of sharing and prayer request, we will be making sandwiches for the homeless the last hour.

If you would like to help with this mission, here is the sign up:

BREAD(2 LOAVES) COLD CUTS(2 PACKS) CHEESE(1 PACK) BAKED GOOD(COOKIES, MUFFINS, OR BROWNIES) Take care and see you all very soon!

Many Blessings,
Melony
melony808@gmail.com

Survey For Military Wives

2009-04-14T07:35:00.000-07:00

Family Of A Vet has an ongoing survey for soldiers who have been diagnosed with TBI or PTSD. Even if you have not been diagnosed, and you think you may have PTSD, TBI or MTBI - there is a survey for you also. If you are married to a soldier who have symtoms or have been diagnosed with PTSD, TBI or MTBI - this survey is for you too.

Family Of A Vet is in the process of working on a congressional packet to send up to Washington DC. Check out their website, they have an array of information that's very helpful.

Happy Easter To The Ladies of CMW

2009-04-10T19:27:00.000-07:00

Happy Easter, ladies!

May God bless you and protect you during this Easter Holiday.

April 8, 2009 Call Of Prayer Day

2009-04-06T03:43:00.000-07:00

Dear friends,

We have been praying together for military families in a prayer initiative that would bring our troops and families through “a persistent war on several fronts”. We would like you to know about a significant event that is being sponsored by the Army Chief of Chaplains next Wednesday, April 8^th. Chaplain (Major General) Douglas L. Carver U.S. Army has issued a proclamation dated 2 March 2009 which calls all of his chaplains to a day of prayer and fasting according to their traditions on that day. Chaplain Carver also cites the Army stand down and training concerning “Suicide Prevention and Awareness” in his call to prayer. We ask you to join the Army chaplaincy in observing this day of prayer and fasting.

We also ask you to pray specifically on that day for a particular soldier. This soldier has demonstrated the effects of PTSD and has shown suicidal indicators. While his name and situation will not be given we ask you to pray for him and his family who are in desperate need of God’s intervention in his life. Their suffering is immense at this time.

Thank you for considering this request. Perhaps, you might ask your church to pray also.

In Christ,

Cal Dunlap Bob Flynn

ACCTS CMF

Executive Director President / CEO

Camp Pendleton, CA Get Togethers

2009-04-05T11:54:00.000-07:00

North Coast Church near Camp Pendleton, CA has a huge military and mil wives ministry! They have monthly breakfasts, small groups that meet weekly, and also help military families in need whenever they can, especially expecting mothers.

If you live in the Camp Pendleton area, I urge you to check out their get togethers... they sound like fun!

Visit, the North Coast Church website for more information.

Footprints In The Sand

2009-03-29T18:38:00.000-07:00

Trusting In God For Your Marriage

2009-03-29T18:31:00.000-07:00

Who are you trusting in when things go wrong in your marriage? Are you trusting in self, or perhaps you go running to family and friends, explaining your side of the story? Some of us go running to therapists, counselors, divorce lawyers, and strangers on the street. But we seldom run to God.

Many of the people we go running to in times of marital troubles aren't equipped in giving us proper advice and guidance. Most of them have had divorces themselves! How can someone fix our marital wounds when they can't fix their own?

Most people mean well when they offer advice but is that advice really what your marriage needs? Family and friends are always bias toward your side of things. Anything you have to say about your spouse will be treated with such bias. Is that what you want, really?

Have you ever gone to the doctor with a certain ailment and the doctor sends you home with medicine to cover up the symptoms with? That's what its like when we go running to family, friends, and counselors. I'm not saying we shouldn't go to counselors, but what I am saying is, have you tried going to the Architect of marriage? Perhaps He can shed some light on your problems - do you think?

Why do people get sick with disease and illness? It is because they are putting something in the body, on a daily basis that it doesn't like. The body is rejecting what it's being given every day. For a healthy body we need to feed it nutritious building foods and then it will begin to heal itself. Whole foods in their pure form are what the body REALLY needs.

It is the same with marriage. Marriages fail because couples in marriage are getting fed lies and deceit from the world, and they believe it! The institution of marriage is rejecting what it is being given on a daily basis. For a healthy marriage we need to make the Designer of marriage a priority in our lives and let Him feed us with His truths. Christ-like principles are what marriage REALLY needs.

Don't treat your marriage like everyone else does. Go to the Inventor of marriage. If you want a chocolate bar, you wouldn't go to the hardware store to get it, would you? Where would you get your chocolate bar? The corner mini mart or the grocery store, right? But you still have to ask this question, where did that chocolate bar come from, originally? It came from the factory, but where did the factory get it? From the cocoa bean!

If it doesn't come from the cocoa bean then its not real chocolate it's a fake. Look for the fruit, or in this case look for the cocoa.

It's impossible to manufacture a REAL chocolate bar without first starting from the cocoa bean. ALL chocolate comes from the cocoa bean it is its source. ALL people come from God He is our Source! Chocolate makes a candy bar, which comes from the cocoa bean. Couples in marriage - a man and a woman, make a marriage, which come from the Creator!

My point? God created and designed marriage. He is the Master Architect! So then why are we not trusting in God for our marriage? All the principles for a healthy, abundant and blessed filled marriage derive from the Source and Creator of marriage God our Lord and Creator of the universe has already given us everything we need to be fulfilled in our marriage.

All you have to do is put those blessings into action, and you do that by trusting in God. Trusting in God takes more than "saying what we're going to do". We actually need to change our way of thinking and attitude and be the people that God created us to be FOR OUR MARRIAGE. It's a personal discovery, really. It's a renewal of heart and mind a transformation.

Angie Lewis is the author of five marriage books offering marriage tips and wisdom filled answers tackling such issues as addiction, adultery, pornography, emotions, beliefs, forgiveness, communication and much, more.

by Angie Lewis

Why Jealousy Hurts So Bad

2009-03-26T04:37:00.000-07:00

Jealousy is a very powerful emotion and if left unattended it can literally wreck havoc in our relationships and marriage. Why do we get jealous of our spouse? Why does jealousy hurt so badly? Jealousy hurts because we feel this emotion usually after our spouse has harmed us in some way. But sometimes we feel jealous for no reason whatsoever and this is very harmful to our relationships.

There are several reasons why we get jealous. Jealousy is a mixture of insecurity, anxiety, and fear. And if we allow this emotion to take precedent in our life we will surely create problems in our marriage and other relationships because of it. To have these feelings can be scary. But did you know that God tells us there is nothing to fear when we put our trust and confidence in Him. God will take fear, jealousy and anxiety away from us.

He said to his disciples, "Why are you so afraid? Do you still have no faith?" (Mark 4:40)

Childhood environment has a lot to do with how we react with our spouse and other people we are involved with. This is one reason why it's crucial for families to stay together and adhere to the proper roles and positions given to them designed by God. God definitely knew what he was doing when he established marriage there is a purpose for each and every person in the family and when we rebel against the design of God we can see the impact of how negative emotions can rule the heart. For instance, if a parent abandoned us when we were little we may carry those feelings over into our relationships with others.

The good news is it does not have to be like this. We can overcome jealousy by learning to put our trust in Christ. When we put our trust in Christ we will automatically trust our spouse. Where is the jealousy? Where is the fear? Where is the anxiety? By learning to give up being in control of our jealousy, we can finally be free of the feelings that make us feel jealous. Why don't have to let jealousy hurt us so bad.

Anger is cruel and fury overwhelming, but who can stand before jealousy?
(Proverbs 27:4)

If our spouse has sinned against the marriage in some way and we are jealous and suspicious of them, then those feelings are justified, but there are ways we can use our emotions in productive ways to bring about a resolve to the marriage dilemma. When we communicate properly about how we feel rather than remain in a defensive mode of character, we can better figure out ways to mend the marriage. Jealousy makes us defensive and we use it to tear down the marriage rather than build it up. But this way is allowing our emotions to control us.

Understand that our emotions don't have to control us. We can be in control of how we use our emotions by realizing the potential of what they can do. Jealousy can bring about many other issues and cause resentment and animosity with the person we are jealous of. This is what we don't want. What we do want is to talk about our feelings with our spouse and come to an amicable solution to resolving the issue of jealousy in an appropriate manner.

The best way to get over jealousy is to express ourselves about why we feel jealous. Don't be afraid to talk about the way you feel and why you feel a certain way. If there is good reason to feel mistrust or suspicious with your spouse find ways through your communication to reestablish trust with them again. Scripture gives us the principles we need to overcome our emotions and move on in a good way with our spouse. Our emotions are ok to have when we don't let them take control over our lives.

We need to pray about it and ask Christ to give us a fresh new look at the issue in the marriage that is causing the jealous emotions. Build the marriage back up by learning to work together in healing and restoration of the marriage, always keeping God in the forefront while respecting one another in all ways.

"Dear children, let us not love with words or tongue but with actions and in truth".
(1 John 3:18)

by Angie Lewis

House Guests

2009-03-24T10:03:00.000-07:00

There is a saying I remember from my teenage years, "When you can't go anywhere else, you can always go home". At the time I thought it meant that after I exhausted my list of fun and exciting places, such as my best friend's house or the mall, then I would head back to my boring house. Now that I am grown and have a home of my own, I can't think of any other place I want to be. In my home I feel safe and comfortable. Home is the one place where I can block out all the unpleasantness of the outside world. It's where I can climb into my warm familiar bed for restful sleep or put my feet on the coffee table and do nothing at all. It's the one place where I can snuggle my husband, daughter and dog to my heart's content. Everything I have come to treasure is in my home.

As a Christian there's another treasure in my home that I far too often forget about. In John 14:23, Jesus tells us, "if anyone loves me, he will obey my teaching. My Father will love him, and we will come to him and make our home with him (NIV). What an awesome but intimidating thought is that? Not only is my ever-faithful dog waiting for me at home, but she's waiting alongside my God and my Jesus. They are waiting to talk with me, comfort me, strengthen me and be a part of my life.

Like any good southern woman, knowing I have house guests causes me to wonder if I have been hospitable enough. No, I don't mean making sure the dust-bunnies are out of sight and that there is plenty of sweet tea and a tasty dessert in the refrigerator (although, those are very important). What gives me pause is wondering if I have shown the most important house guests I will ever have the hospitality They deserve? Ironically, I have to stop and ask myself, is my family's home the first place They want to be, or as if a mirror image of my teenage self, would They prefer to be somewhere, anywhere, more inviting than my home?

Do they avert Their eyes and nervously shuffle Their feet when I speak gruffly to my husband and daughter because I'm in a constant rush when I get home from work? Would my house guests be embarrassed by the television programs we watch? Are they disappointed that meals I prepare for my family do not honor the bodies They gave us?

Most importantly, do I treat Them as I do other house guests, or do I send Them off into the sunroom to wait for me to find a free moment for Them. Do I hurriedly relay the day's events just before bedtime, nodding off before They have a chance to tell me what They have been sitting with the dog, patiently waiting to tell me all day long?

I am confident that I haven't been the best hostess I can be. In fact, I'm pretty sure my dog has been the better hostess. And I am very sure that if I had been treated the way my house guests have been treated, I wouldn't return, no matter how tasty the sweet tea may be. Fortunately, my house guests haven't left yet and today when I push the button on the garage door opener, I will remember to put on my best southern smile, open the back door, pat the dog on the head and greet my house guests with all the hospitality They deserve and desire.

By: Scarlett Far
Scarlett Farr lives with her husband, daughter and dog in Lizella, Georgia.

Love Them Into The Church

2009-03-12T15:07:00.001-07:00

1 John 4:7-12

Sometimes even as Christians we tend to be judgmental or critical of someone who is not a believer or isn't as far in their Christian walk as others. We may look at a person's behavior in scorn. We may not even realize we do it, for we have no intention of hurting them.

Even though my sons have been raised in the church and brought up in a Christian home, at ages seventeen and twenty-one, God is definitely not finished with them yet. They're not perfect. They are also at a vulnerable age where they are questioning their faith, the Bible, and the beliefs which they have been taught.

Thank God, we attend a church that is very kind and tolerant. The truth is preached, but sinners are welcomed, not condemned. I'm so glad, because right now it is an effort to even get them to go to church. If they thought people were going to gossip about them, judge them, or shun them because they are not measuring up, I don't think they would go at all.

This has made me very aware of how I treat people. After all, Christ came to save sinners. He came for the sick, not the well. If we turn away the very people who need him, what a terrible eternal consequence that could have!

So when I see people coming to church, or anywhere for that matter, I try to treat them the way I would want my own sons to be treated. I want to act in love, not rejection.

My mother was right when she always said, "We have to love people into the church."

Prayer

Dear Lord,

Remind us that the very essence of your character is love. Please fill us with your love, so that it becomes the essence of our character, too. May we demonstrate your love to others so that they will be drawn to you, not repulsed by Christianity.

Jessica Gerald
Ladies Ministry Online
"Encouraging and strengthening the Christian Home"

Life Lessons From Pizza

2009-03-03T08:30:00.000-08:00

Read our newest blog, Life Lessons From Pizza - Written by Colleen; CMW Member and Founding Partner from Operation Life Transformed.

Wife of a Soldier, Journey To Faith By Diana Juergens

2009-03-01T05:23:00.000-08:00

When I fell in love with my warrior, I could not fathom how much his profession would impact my world. Little did I know how it would entwine itself around my heart and life. I didn’t fully understand the requirement it would place on me, but thankfully God did. God had a plan and placed a call on my life to be a military spouse....

I had the privilege of meeting Diana Juergens over a year ago, at the Wives of Warriors cell group located at Manna Church in Fayetteville, North Carolina and have kept in contact with her ever since. Diana is a wonderful mentor, outstanding friend and loyal military wife.

Diana Juergens spent five years on active duty as an Army aviator. She has been a military wife for more than twenty years. During this time she has moved ten times and has faced six real-world deployments. She has been the Family Readiness Group Leader at both the company and battalion level and has held positions of leadership in Mothers of Preschoolers (MOPs) and Protestant Women of the Chapel (PWOC). She is the homeschooling mother of eight daughters, ranging in age from 2 to 20 years old. Diana is an avid runner who enjoys running marathons. Her husband is an Army Colonel currently serving an unaccompanied tour in Honduras. Diana lives with her daughters at Ft. Eustis, Virginia.

I encourage you to check out Dianas new released Christian based book about being a military wife.

CLICK HERE to go to her website.

The Fayetteville Observer

2009-02-26T11:00:00.000-08:00

The Fayetteville Observer published an article about CMW today. The article was over all right, but I do want to make a correction.

My husbands troop lost 9 soldiers, not his PLT.

God bless the families of the soldiers who were lost, they are very dear to our hearts.

Sincerely,

Patti R. Katter

Homesick!

2009-02-23T17:38:00.000-08:00

Written By Deirdre (An AF Wife):

I’m in Okinawa, Japan. It’s like paradise here. It’s a sunny day today. Our home is by the ocean and the water is beautiful.....blue and clear. I drive down the street to see palm trees and just think to myself how lucky I am to be here. But, that feeling passes and I start to feel down. I start to miss my friends and family and my hometown, Baltimore, MD, and I start to feel down.

Facebook is supposed to remedy this situation but it doesn’t. I look at pictures of my friends, laugh but then my laughter turns to tears. They are saying funny things online and imagine myself in their presence as they are saying these things. I remember just hanging out with my family with my mother’s hands going through my hair as she brushes it; yes I still get this treatment at 27. Now it’s gone.....well at least until I visit home.

“Girl....sorry correction these are my friends.....GURL, YOU SHOULD BE THANKFUL” I’m told often. Also I hear, “Oh, whatever I’m so over that two years ago, this feeling will pass!!” I feel like screaming to them.........”HELLO PEOPLE....SECOND TOUR OVERSEAS!!!” I scream that “I do miss you guys and I do want to come home."

Well I prayed took this matter before the Lord and he tells me that he would never leave me.......nor forsake me. That he has always known about this and that the plan of me being in overseas for two tours was always in the making. He reminded me of my passion of foreign countries and love for different cultures. I was also able to travel to Spain at 15 funded by a single mother who saved to send me. I had a blast with my friends and vowed to take many trips after Spain.....8 countries later......I still commit to this vow. I grew up with a single mother and I was poor, my family told me I would never have enough money to travel. Well actually they were right......somewhat.....the military actually pays me to travel....it’s even better.

Also, I reminded of the fruits of the spirit which are fruits that are apart of me. These fruits allow compassion and love to overwhelm me. I see people on the streets, the prostitutes and the homeless. The hungry, the unsaved, and unchurched. Also, on base the deployed spouses, the spouses who practically single parents are raising children while mommy or daddy works or the people like me who are far away from home and are homesick; or my husband who comes home from a long day at work to sit, eat my cooking and cuddle. They are the reason that I’m here. They are my ministry.

So yes.......homesickness is a feeling that is normal. And it is something that I have not gotten used to......and something I work through. But I feel as though I called to something here; something bigger than me that is in me....and apart of me.

Hey, there are some bases that are not “cool” and are boring. Not as exotic as Okinawa, but I challenge you all to find your ministry at your base wherever you are. Find the thing that drives you to become closer to the person that he wants you to be. Go where he wants you to do. Take this unique as a military wife and make the most of it.

Kevin Turner - PTSD - Fayetteville, NC Event

2009-02-21T05:48:00.000-08:00

Manna Church on Cliffdale Road - rocks! It's my church, and I love it!

This week, we have been having a slew of missionaries from around the world to come and share their stories.

Kevin Turner has been one of the missionaries visiting our church. He is a radical missionary - he's not afraid of much.

He goes into war torn countries to witness to people.

He has seen unimaginable things - images of death, yet he keeps going for Christ... he knows that salvation is their only hope.

Kevin has not been in the military to my knowledge, however - he has admitted to dealing with PTSD. I talked to him briefly, and he did say he is working on a book about his story and how he deals with PTSD. I cannot wait for this book to come out! Its about time that PTSD is addressed by a Christian who has experienced.

Christ really is the only hope we have... it's great Kevin will be addressing this soon.

Come join us tomorrow morning as we honor Kevin and other missionaries like him.

Read about Kevins amazing story, HERE.

I will keep you posted!

Ft. Bragg Military Order Of The Purple Heart Dinner

2009-02-16T19:51:00.000-08:00

If you do not have your MOPH dinner tickets, be sure to get them while you can. The dinner is 2/27/09.

Email: info@christianmilitarywives.com if you would like to purchase your ticket.

$15 per person

Staying Strong

2009-02-16T08:34:00.000-08:00

Read, Confessions of a Soon To Be Military Wife... in our Staying Strong section. :)

Thank you, Kathryn!

Beanie Babies

2009-02-07T17:27:00.000-08:00

Thank you to Kathryn - she will be sending approximately 40 Beanie Babies to CMW to distribute to military children. :)

CMW Filing Non-Profit Paperwork

2009-02-05T17:50:00.001-08:00

CMW is proud to announce, a wonderful lawyer has offered his services to us... pro-bono.

We are very excited!

Please check back often for updates. :)

Dinner With Those Who Have A Purple Heart

2009-01-24T19:44:00.001-08:00

The Fort Bragg, NC Chapter of the Military Order of the Purple Heart will be having a dinner on February 27 at 6pm on Pope Air Force Base.

Tickets are running $15 each.

The tickets are well worth it! I went last year, and the dinner was fabulous!

Please email me if you would like to purchase tickets. :)\

patti@christianmilitarywives.com

Christmas In July

2009-01-16T18:40:00.001-08:00

We are now collecting Christmas items for some of the US Soldiers in Iraq. We would like to help the Gold Star Moms with their task of putting together themed "Christmas in July" care packages.

If you would like to donate stocking stuffers, please let us know by emailing: info@christianmilitarywives.com - they will be stuffing 18-20 stockings.

On a side note, the Gold Star Moms are also collecting supplies for female soldiers.

Collecting Trial Size Hygiene Supplies

2009-01-16T18:37:00.000-08:00

We are now collecting trial size hygiene items (soaps, shampoos etc) the Gold Star Moms.

The Gold Star Moms are currently trying to put together baskets for those staying at the VA hospital in Fayetteville, NC.

Please email, info@christianmilitarywives.com if you would like to help!

Fort Bragg, USO 5k Run/Walk

2009-01-15T09:06:00.000-08:00

My good friend, Lorie wanted me to pass this information along for you all. Her son was killed in Iraq, and a team of Gold Star Moms will be participating in this. If you would like to join her team, please email info@christianmilitarywives.com

Date:

Saturday, March 07, 2009

Time:

07:30 AM

Venue:

Fayetteville Technical Community College

Address:

Parking Lot # 5, Hull Road
Fayetteville, NC 28303

Brief Description:

This 5K Run/Walk will benefit the Ft. Bragg USO’s facility and outreach programs. Not only is this a fundraiser, but it is an opportunity for the Ft. Bragg and Fayetteville communities to come out and show our support for our local military. As participants, you can choose to walk or run in honor or in memory of service members. Feel free to be creative by making t-shirts or posters to express your gratitude.

Fees:

See Below

Online Registration Closes:

03/06/09 08:59 PM

Website

http://www.uso-nc.org

Race Day Schedule

7:30am - Registration
8:30am - Race Start

Registration Fees

5K Adult Run/Walk - $20
Day of Race - $25
5K 16 & under Run/Walk - $12
Day of Race - $15

Christian Military Wives Now On Facebook!

2009-01-09T15:16:00.000-08:00

CMW now has a Facebook Group you can join. This is not to replace our terrific message board (now sporting over 400 members!) - but it is to help broaden our horizons!

Join The Facebook Group Here!

Vote on MSNBC - In God We Trust?

2009-01-04T11:36:00.000-08:00

Here's your chance to let the media know where the people stand on our Faith in God, as a nation. NBC is taking a poll on "In God We Trust" to stay on our American currency. Please send this to every Christian you Know so they can vote on this important subject. Please do it right away, before NBC takes this off the web page. Poll is still open so you can vote.

CLICK HERE TO VOTE

Please post this on your blogs, your websites and forward it to your friends in email, Facebook - Myspace.

Join Our Weight Loss Group

2008-12-28T15:53:00.001-08:00

FYI, Christian Military Wives has started a new weight loss support group just for military wives! Big thanks to Natalie! :)

Hurry and sign in on our message board to participate in our accountability partner pair up! In doing so, you will be paired with a partner who has to lose a similar amount of weight... you will touch base every day via email, PM or phone. You are encouraged to talk to your partner at least once per week on the phone.

Christian Military Wives Message Board

Military Wives... Win A $30 Gift Card!

2008-12-24T14:54:00.000-08:00

Attention Military Wives:

Visit our message board for a chance to win a $30 gift card to Walmart!

Contest runs from 12/25/08 - 1/31/09.

Dialtone.... The Movie

2008-12-22T17:48:00.001-08:00

Check out the new DVD, Dialtone. You can go to the website, http://www.dialtonemovie.com to order it!

The DVD is only $15 and includes shipping.

I went to school with the producer, Gary... let's help him out in his adventure making Christian films!

I will write a movie review soon... I ordered the DVD today. :)

Sincerely,
Patti K.

San Diego Wives!

2008-12-08T16:13:00.000-08:00

Attention San Diego Wives...

Shadow Mountain Community Church in El Cajon, California (San Diego), has a military wives ministry that meets Tuesday nights for Bible study, prayer, and fellowship (child care is provided). The church’s senior pastor’s wife also hosts two or three gatherings a year at her home, for the military wives. Additionally, we usually have a couple of special events throughout the year, most recently being a military wives tea, featuring a prominent television news figure, herself a Christian wife of a Navy veteran. Our group includes wives of active duty – all branches, all rates and ranks, officers and enlisted.

Director: Donna Pickel

Email: militarywives@shadowmountain.org

Church website: www.shadowmountain.org

Pancakes For Soldiers, McKinney TX

2008-11-25T18:38:00.000-08:00

Operation Once in a Lifetime would like to invite you and your family to a charity breakfast benefiting U.S. Soldiers and their families on Saturday December 6^th from 8 am to 10 pm.

The goal of this breakfast is to raise money to help soldiers get home for the holidays. $10.00 gets you an all you can eat breakfast; pancakes, sausage, bacon and unlimited drinks.

Come meet soldiers from the 4^th Infantry Division from Fort Hood Texas and Soldiers from the U.S. Air Force. Operation Once in a Lifetime will also be collecting toys for soldiers children and Linen (pillows and sheets) for soldiers returning from Iraq in January from the 4^th Infantry Division.

Location: Applebees in McKinney, Texas

1820 W University Dr
McKinney, TX 75069.

CONTACT INFO Patrick Sowers 254-289-3057

Patrick@operationonceinalifetime.com

CMW December Newsletter

2008-11-25T14:39:00.000-08:00

Please be sure to check your inbox for the Christian Military Wives newsletter!

Resources For Vets & Their Families

2008-11-25T14:36:00.000-08:00

Recent studies tell us that nearly a third of veterans who seek care through Veterans Administration (VA) health centers receive mental health diagnoses. With more and more soldiers returning from Iraq and Afghanistan with mental health concerns, NAMI recognizes the need for increased services for veterans and their families. With our Veterans Resources Center, we have attempted to consolidate the most useful online resources. Whether you are looking for information on Posttraumatic Stress Disorder, mental illness, or how to obtain Veterans Administration (VA) benefits, we have tried to provide an extensive list of sites online where you can find that information.

CMW News...

2008-11-24T14:04:00.000-08:00

I hope you enjoy the look of the main site. I have been trying to clean it up a little. :)

Our newsletter will be coming out in less than a week. If you have news you would like to submit, please do so ASAP: info@christianmilitarywives.com

Military RideShare

2008-11-19T13:03:00.000-08:00

This is a fantastic idea! Former US Marine, Jennifer M started a website to revolutionize the way service members travel home for long weekends/leave/base transfers/etc. This free site allows them to log on and find other military members who are traveling in the same direction so they can ride together and save some green.

Check out Military RideShare HERE.

Secret Service Christmas Elves

2008-11-18T08:29:00.000-08:00

Looking for Christmas Elves who want to do good deeds for someone this holiday season.

Please email info@christianmilitarywives.com if you would like to help a military family this holiday season.

Christmas Elves work undercover... we work in secret - we are now recruiting... One great way to send a military the gift of food is going to Commissaries.Com

You may order a gift certificate online or via phone - you may also make your donation anonymous.

Thank You, Sears

2008-11-15T09:13:00.001-08:00

Sears has chosen military families from all over the United States to receive a gift card from their store.

Families may receive up to $500 this Christmas, depending on the amount donors give.

Please go to Sears Wish List for more information.

Earn The Presidential Award, Through Christian Military Wives

2008-11-09T12:28:00.000-08:00

Please be sure to check this out if you would like to volunteer for our organization. Christian Military Wives has partnered with the White House in giving out the Presidential Award.

CLICK HERE to learn more...

Letter From Bob Dees, Major General, US ARMY Retired

2008-11-07T11:17:00.002-08:00

Dear Friends,

Please join us at Military Ministry in honoring those who have and will serve so faithfully in our nation's military uniforms. In reality, where would we be without them? What if our great Veterans had not been at Valley Forge, or Iwo Jima, or the Bulge? Or what if they decided that it was too windy and wet on 6 June 1944... too uncomfortable to unhinge an entire continent from the domination of an evil empire? Fortunately, we do not have to ask that question. Our Veterans were there - they showed up - every time we have needed them. Yes, where would we be without them? - We would not be the Land of the Free and the Home of the Brave. In fact, America is the Land of the Free because of the Brave... those brave Veterans of past, present, and prayerfully the future who lay it all down on our behalf as a free nation.

Apart from the challenges of national economic, political, and cultural landscapes; there is one other national challenge that must not be delegated to the sidelines of our hearts and energies at this time in our nation's history. Our troops and their families desperately need us, more than ever before. As the "exoderm" of our country, they are wounded, bruised, cut on our behalf... and many bleed, die, or return with the hidden wounds of war that strike to their very heart, soul, mind, and spirit. The government is working this hard, but they do not have the capacity or the appropriate spiritual focus to truly address these hidden wounds. Without mobilizing communities and churches across America to address the impacts of combat trauma and particularly Post Traumatic Stress, we simply will break trust with those great military servants who have put it on the line for us. Said another way, the nation who fails to heal the wounds of war is at great peril.

Now that the 2008 national elections are history, let me ask you to cast one more vote.

* VOTE for our troops and their families, for spiritual nurture to guard, guide, and sustain them in the challenging days ahead. They desperately need continued strength, courage, and resilience.
* VOTE to help Military Ministry provide Faith in the Foxhole and Hope on the Home Front for our nation's military and their families.
* VOTE that our "Bridges to Healing" ministry will equip thousands of churches across America to reach combat trauma sufferers and their families with the healing power of God.

Our "time such as this" opportunity is to spiritually strengthen our military and impact our entire nation. Military Ministry needs your prayer support, your physical assistance, and your financial help. We need your VOTE. Our troops and their families will be glad you did!

Bob Dees
Major General, US Army, Retired
Executive Director, CCCI Military Ministry

www.militaryministry.org
1-800-444-6006, Ext 7210
202-468-9208 (cell)

FAITH in the FOXHOLE...
HOPE on the HOME FRONT...
To the ENDS of the EARTH!

Military Wives, Staying Strong

2008-11-06T15:36:00.000-08:00

It's the beginning of the month, you know what that means! New great blog content! Check out our new blogs for this month...

Please visit our Staying Strong blog for great verses on how to have faith in stressful times...

Take the Tithe Test on our Financial Blog...

Learn to pace your housework on our Housekeeping Blog...

Is your marriage on shaky ground? Strengthen your marriage, read the Marriage Relationship Blog...

What you say and do, does impact your children... read our Raising Christian Military Kids Blog...

United Way Of San Antonio, TX Offers Help To Military Families

2008-11-06T15:01:00.001-08:00

211

Combat service in Afghanistan and Iraq is producing critical and unique issues for a new generation of active-duty Air Force, Army, Navy, Marines, Reservists, Texas National Guard members, veterans, and their families.

With an extensive database at their fingertips, United Way 2-1-1 Military Call Specialists help military service members and their loved ones achieve stable and productive lives before, during and after deployment.

• Operates 24 hours a day, seven days a week

• Provides referrals for health and human care services for OEF/OIF military members and their families

- continuously updated with new services
- contains federal, state, county, city services
- private, nonprofit and faith-based services
- contains OEF/OIF specific services

Please visit the United Way of San Antonio and Bexar County website, HERE.

Military Spouse Career Advancement

2008-11-06T14:52:00.000-08:00

The Military Spouse Career Advancement Accounts program (CAA) is giving up to $6,000 for education, training, credentialing and licensing programs to all eligible military spouses at Fort Bragg and Pope Air Force Base.

This is an incredible opportunity to finally get the training and education you need to break into a career that you really love.
Apply for CAA Now.

Resources...

2008-11-04T06:06:00.000-08:00

Christian Military Wives is now featured on the 100 Best Military Resources blog... this blog really does have great resources for military families.

Thank You To Laura Bush

2008-10-27T14:27:00.001-07:00

Many thanks to Laura Bush, for the nice package I received in the mail today. I as well as other military wives truly appreciate all of the wonderful volunteer work you do.

Sincerely,

Patti K.

Diaper Drive; Fort Hood TX

2008-10-14T10:51:00.000-07:00

Operation Once in a Lifetime will be going to Fort Hood this Saturday to drop off linen for soldiers coming home from Iraq. We will also be dropping off diapers, wipes and formula for soldiers in need with kids.

If you like to participate in this drive please drop off linen and diapers to our resale center located at 2540 Ave. K #200 Plano Texas by this Friday or call Patrick Sowers at 254-289-3057.

Wives Of Warriors

2008-10-11T11:07:00.000-07:00

Thank you to the Wives of Warriors group for inviting me to speak at your meeting this morning.

I enjoyed spending time with each and every one of you. Today was such a blessing. I look forward to seeing you all again in two weeks!

Sincerely,

Patti K.

*Wives of Warriors = a small group that meets every other Saturday at Manna Church in Fayetteville, NC. I urge you to check it out if you live in the Fayetteville area. :)

Check out support groups in your area!

2008-10-05T19:39:00.001-07:00

Check out our new support group listing page on CMW!

Get Togethers

Life As We Know It...

2008-10-01T08:21:00.001-07:00

Thanks for sharing this with us Heidi... a reminder that God is in control of everything including finances.

Life, according to ABC is over. with the bailout failing, americans should just run to their homes, pull the shades and sit in the center of the floor rocking back and forth on their backsides. I tried that. it didn't work. I just got some awful rug burns on my hinny reminding me that i''m not five years old anymore...

Read Entire Blog

Savanna, Georgia Get Togethers

2008-09-30T15:21:00.001-07:00

If you are located in or near Savanna, Georgia - please check out Savannah Christian Church for more information on their military ministry.

Fayetteville Meetings Twice A Month

2008-09-30T14:35:00.000-07:00

Anchored In H.O.P.E.

Honor-Oath-Purpose-Encouragement

Offering the One true HOPE

Military Ministry

Anchored in Hope helps military wives find the one true hope that's in Jesus Christ. We are located in Fayetteville NC at Covenant Love Family Church.

Fayetteville is located near Fort Bragg and Pope Air Force Based. We meet on the 2nd and 4th Tuesday night of each month from 7 p.m. to 9 p.m. Childcare is provided. We look forward to seeing you there.

Make Money, Have a Yard Sale

2008-09-25T06:46:00.000-07:00

Kim teaches us how to have a successful yard sale... read more...

Army Wife, Kim - Terrific Writer

2008-09-25T06:43:00.001-07:00

Check out Kims new blogs located in the Staying Strong section... :)

Ten Rules To A Successful Marriage

2008-09-21T08:55:00.000-07:00

Read the Ten Rules To A Successful Marriage on our CMW Relationship Blog. :)

Do You Have Weekly Meetings for Military Wives?

2008-09-20T21:16:00.000-07:00

Please let us know if you have Christian based meetings for military wives in your area.

We are more than happy to post your events!

Email: info@christianmilitarywives.com with your information.

Fort Bragg - Pope Air Force Base Get Together

2008-09-20T13:09:00.001-07:00

Wives Of Warriors meeting, Saturday September 27 at 10am... Manna Church on Cliffdale Road. Be there, or be square.

Fireproof The Movie

2008-09-15T23:06:00.001-07:00

Check out our Entertainment section! You won't be disappointed. Special thanks to our guest writer, Dana Chaffin.

Marriage Relationships

2008-09-15T22:43:00.001-07:00

In our Marriage Relationships Blog...

Check out information on Secondary PTSD. This is a real issue that military wives are dealing with.

Raising Kids...

2008-09-15T22:01:00.000-07:00

Michelle wrote a terrific blog this month! Read it ..HERE..

You go girl! :)

Books for Guatemala

2008-09-06T12:16:00.001-07:00

I have contacted Sharon from Mayan Families (the organization my son and I went down to help in Guatemala), and have had her okay to start a book fair to raise books to send to Mayan Families. Mayan Families will donate the books to schools or children in their area as they see fit.

The book fair begins today, and ends on September 27.

If we can sell at least $500 worth of books, we will then receive 50% in books for free.

Please check out the efair by clicking HERE . You will see MAYAN FAMILIES listed on the right side of the page. Click that link and then continue to shop.

Please pass the word around! Pass the word around. This is your chance to help send books to Guatemala, with no shipping charges to you. I will pay shipping costs in the upcoming shipment! Books start out as little as under $3 a piece on our wish list.

People can either buy books for themselves (and have them shipped to their own homes), or if they click MAYAN FAMILY WISH LIST - those books will be shipped to my house, in return I will send them in the next shipment.

:)

Here's the link:

http://www.nutsaboutbooks.com - be sure to click on MAYAN FAMILIES under active efairs.

Power Of A Praying Parent Online Course

2008-09-03T06:30:00.000-07:00

Coming VERY soon, thanks to Linda and Michelle. :)

Happy Labor Day

2008-08-31T20:14:00.000-07:00

Check It Out!

2008-07-11T05:31:00.001-07:00

Check out our new terrific blog posts...

See what Flat Stanley is doing with Pattie
Read the Summer Time Blues by Stephanie
Kim will sing to you in the Staying Strong blog... or maybe not?

Helping Other Organizations

2008-07-09T05:43:00.000-07:00

We love helping other organizations that help soldiers and their families... we are all in this together! :)

Please check out Operation Life Transformed... :)

Has Your Husband Been Wounded In War?

2008-06-28T19:56:00.000-07:00

Patti shares her experiences... her soldier has a moderate brain injury...

Read:

The FYI On TBI

Staying Strong Blog

2008-06-27T07:18:00.001-07:00

Check out the new blog in the Staying Strong section. :)

Lifting Up Our Military & Their Families.

Mission Possible

2008-06-20T20:11:00.001-07:00

Read about a military family doing more than just "military missions..."

Read this blog by a military wife, as she tells about her mission trip to Guatemala.

Great Book Review

2008-06-20T20:09:00.001-07:00

Looking for a good, encouraging book to read? Check out the newest book review, thanks so much Linda! :)

Entertainment Reviews

Attention Scrapbookers! :)

2008-06-17T06:50:00.000-07:00

Check out the new scrapbook challenge HERE. :)

New Staying Strong Blog

2008-06-10T18:50:00.001-07:00

Check it out! Thanks Kim! :)

Welcome to Michelle, Our newest blogger :)

2008-06-10T18:49:00.001-07:00

Michelle wrote a wonderful blog, Our Children Learn From Us. Please be sure to read it, and comment. :)

Energy Saving Tips

2008-06-05T18:49:00.000-07:00

Read our newest blog... Energy Saving Tips... thank you, Kim! :)

Military Appreciation Day in Fayetteville, NC

2008-06-05T18:45:00.000-07:00

June 14

2-4pm

Lots of Patriotic Freebies
• SwampDog TeamMascots
• Crafts & Activities for the Kids
• Plenty of Prizes

• Military Support Organizations Include:
- Renaissance Day Spa Gift Certificates
- Jewelry from Rhudy's Jewelry Showroom
- Passes to Fantasy Lake Water Park
- Tickets, CDs, and more!
- Army Community Service (ACS)
- Operation Home Front
- 82nd Airborne Wounded Warrior Committee
- Armed Forcez Wingz
- Christian Military Wives
- Bandanas for Bragg and plenty more!
-Cumberland County Bookmobile
-31¢ Ice CreamConesfromBaskin
-RobbinsFree Water & Discounted Concessions

Free Tote Bags for first 350 Military Families

J.P. Riddle Stadium• Legion RoadFayetteville

Directions fromFt. Bragg: Take All American which becomes Owen Drive, right on Southern Ave. which becomes Legion Rd... Stadiumis just ahead on the left!

Staying Strong

2008-05-25T15:59:00.000-07:00

After Deployment blog post in the Staying Strong section. :)

Presidential Service Award Information

2008-05-21T21:20:00.000-07:00

For Immediate Release:
DATE: May 22, 2008

Christian Military Wives joins With President Bush’s Council on Service and Civic Participation to Deliver President’s Volunteer Service Award Prestigious Award Honors Outstanding Commitment to Volunteer Service.

Christian Military Wives today announced it has teamed with the White House to become a Certifying Organization for the PRESIDENT’S VOLUNTEER SERVICE AWARD, a national program recognizing Americans who have demonstrated a sustained commitment to volunteer service. Established in 2003, the AWARD was created by President George W. Bush to give Presidential recognition to individuals, families and groups who meet requirements for volunteer service, measured by the number of service hours performed over 12-months.

Christian Military Wives is one of thousands of organizations and businesses that have joined forces to deliver the PRESIDENT’S VOLUNTEER SERVICE AWARD and honor the volunteers who strengthen our Nation. As a Certifying Organization for the AWARD, Christian Military Wives is responsible for verifying service hours, nominating potential recipients and delivering the AWARD.

“We are extremely proud to recognize our most outstanding volunteers with the PRESIDENT’S VOLUNTEER SERVICE AWARD,” said Patti - founder of Christian Military Wives.

"Volunteers are role models in our community, donating their time, energy and talent to bring us closer together as neighbors and a Nation. The AWARD is our way of thanking these volunteers and inspiring everyone in our community to make volunteering a central part of their lives.”

“Even if you’ve never volunteered before, the PRESIDENT’S VOLUNTEER SERVICE AWARD is within your reach,” Patti said. “There are so many ways to contribute, and every volunteer hour makes a difference in improving the quality of life for others. We encourage everyone to get involved and to bring along your family, friends and neighbors. Together, we can strengthen America – one hour at a time.”

The AWARD is issued by the President’s Council on Service and Civic Participation, a group convened by President George W. Bush to help foster and encourage a culture of volunteer service and civic participation among Americans. Chaired by two-time Super Bowl Champion Darrell Green, with former U.S. Senators Bob Dole and John Glenn as honorary co-chairs, the Council is composed of leaders in government, media, entertainment, business, education, nonprofit and volunteer service organizations and community volunteering.

For more information about volunteering with Christian Military Wives, contact Patti via email: patti@christianmilitarywives.com

For more information on the PRESIDENT’S VOLUNTEER SERVICE AWARD and to find out how to identify additional volunteer opportunities in this area, visit www.presidentialserviceawards.gov or call 1-866-545-5307.

Our Record of Service Key is:

QFM-31599

Patti Off To Guatemala

2008-05-10T12:17:00.001-07:00

Patti is off to Guatemala.

To read about her mission trip, check out her personal blog at Operation Obligation.

Patti of CMW Meets With Oliver North

2008-05-06T21:36:00.001-07:00

More information on this coming soon! :)

One Of Our Members, Wins Award

2008-05-06T21:27:00.000-07:00

Three cheers for Colleen, she met President Bush today - and was given a very elite award of Army Military Spouse of the year!

First we honor an Army wife named Colleen Saffron. In May 2004, Colleen's husband, Terry, who is with us, was severely injured while serving in Iraq. And Colleen learned firsthand the challenges facing the families of wounded warriors. So last year she helped found Operation Life Transformed, which is a non-profit that helps family members and caregivers of our wounded troops get the training they need so they can work from home while caring for their loved ones. To date, Operation Life Transformed has helped more than 30 spouses and caregivers get the funding and support they need for new and flexible careers. One of those she helps is Maria Baez, and she was the mom whose Marine son was paralyzed by a sniper bullet in Fallujah. Here's what Maria said about Operation Life Transformed: "I can't thank you enough for helping me and trusting me, and also for not giving up."

So, Colleen, America can't thank you enough to help our wounded troops and their families, and we're so pleased to have you here at the White House. Stand up.

To read the entire article, please go to: http://www.whitehouse.gov/news/releases/2008/05/20080506-3.html

For more information on Colleens Organization, please visit Operation Life Transformed. This is an outstanding organization Colleen is a huge part of; making it a wonderful success.

Time Out With Lindsey Kane

2008-05-06T21:22:00.000-07:00

Check out the entertainment review blog...

Click Here

Please, leave comments!

2008-04-23T21:35:00.000-07:00

Our wonderful bloggers would LOVE it if you would leave them words of encouragement, and comments on the blogs they write! :)

This will help them see if others are reading - one.. but for another - tell us what you want... things you want to read about, things that interest you! :)

Scrapbookers!

2008-04-19T07:40:00.000-07:00

Pattie has done a wonderful job with her SB Scrapbooking page - check it out! :)

Click Here

Entertainment Reviews

2008-04-19T07:39:00.000-07:00

Yet, another update in our entertainment review section - check it out.

Focus on Disciple & KJ52.

Financial Updates

2008-04-15T09:50:00.000-07:00

Check it out:

Financial

Entertainment Reviews

2008-04-15T09:45:00.000-07:00

New Post in the Entertainment Review Section!

Words by Kim Walker... *must read*

Deborah Klassen To Visit Fayetteville, NC

2008-04-10T05:27:00.000-07:00

Music Artist Lindsey Kane...

2008-04-08T11:59:00.001-07:00

Check out the words of encouragement that Lindsey Kane gives to military wives... read our Entertainment Reviews.

Christian Military Wives Blog Central

Our New Site!

Great Contest!

Christina & Shawn Get Married

Not Forgotten

Unspeakable Joy

CMW Weekend Get Away

Memorial Day Weekend

Christian Military Wives Video

Spiritual Warfare And Military Families

Prayer of Protection

Helping Single Soldiers at Fort Bragg (NC)

Fayetteville, NC Free Class For Veterans 5/9/09

Free Scholarships For War Wounded Care Givers

Shelly Won Our April Contest!

President's Volunteer Service Awards - 2009

Fayetteville, NC Upcoming Meeting

Survey For Military Wives

Happy Easter To The Ladies of CMW

April 8, 2009 Call Of Prayer Day

Camp Pendleton, CA Get Togethers

Footprints In The Sand

Trusting In God For Your Marriage

Why Jealousy Hurts So Bad

House Guests

Love Them Into The Church

Life Lessons From Pizza

Wife of a Soldier, Journey To Faith By Diana Juergens

The Fayetteville Observer

Homesick!

Kevin Turner - PTSD - Fayetteville, NC Event

Ft. Bragg Military Order Of The Purple Heart Dinner

Staying Strong

Beanie Babies

CMW Filing Non-Profit Paperwork

Dinner With Those Who Have A Purple Heart

Christmas In July

Collecting Trial Size Hygiene Supplies

Fort Bragg, USO 5k Run/Walk

Date:

Time:

Venue:

Address:

Brief Description:

Fees:

Online Registration Closes:

Website

Race Day Schedule

Registration Fees

Christian Military Wives Now On Facebook!

Vote on MSNBC - In God We Trust?

Join Our Weight Loss Group

Military Wives... Win A $30 Gift Card!

Dialtone.... The Movie

San Diego Wives!

Pancakes For Soldiers, McKinney TX

CMW December Newsletter

Resources For Vets & Their Families

CMW News...

Military RideShare

Secret Service Christmas Elves

Thank You, Sears

Earn The Presidential Award, Through Christian Military Wives

Letter From Bob Dees, Major General, US ARMY Retired

Military Wives, Staying Strong

United Way Of San Antonio, TX Offers Help To Military Families

Military Spouse Career Advancement

Resources...

Recommended Reading By Mrs. Laura Bush

Thank You To Laura Bush

Diaper Drive; Fort Hood TX

Wives Of Warriors

Check out support groups in your area!

Life As We Know It...

Savanna, Georgia Get Togethers

Fayetteville Meetings Twice A Month

Make Money, Have a Yard Sale

Army Wife, Kim - Terrific Writer

Ten Rules To A Successful Marriage

Do You Have Weekly Meetings for Military Wives?