Happy Saturday! In case you missed it, we implemented Stay-at-Home Saturday last week. If you would like to know the background, click here. Here are this week's Mommy Marketing Moment, TNT Tip and Savory Smackerel. Enjoy!

Mommy Marketing Moment
Today's Mommy Marketing Moment features our own Aundrea and her home based company, Zerbert Baby. Zerbert Baby is committed to producing attractive and highly functional selections of boutique style burp cloths, blankees, bibs and bags. One unique thing about ordering from Zerbert Baby is that each order is custom and you are able to design your product via a 123 selction process of assorted designs and textured material. Aundrea has also ventured into making appliqued T's and onesies which are not yet on her website but I'm sure she'd be glad to share options with you if you are interested and contact her via the site.

Now, who wants a ZERBERT?!?!? Ha. Ha. How can you hear that sentence and not just grin from ear to ear remembering playful childhood memories? Clever name, huh? Let's hear it for Zerbert Baby!

TNT TIP
Allison (AKA dalli) says:

WD-40 gets crayon off of walls quickly and easily. NOT that I condone coloring the walls, but with little ones it DOES happen sooner or later.

Thank you, Allison! I know this tip will most definitely come in handy. You get two extra entries in our GIVEAWAY for sharing with us.


Ladies, we want to hear from YOU. Be sure to help your sisters out and send us YOUR tried n' true household tips (TNT Tip). Email them to us at roofwithaview@gmail.com


Savory Smackerel
After a few weeks of some tasty lunch options, we thought it would be fun to break out a breakfast favorite. This easy to make recipe comes from The New Firefighter's Cookbook , and are whipped up in the home of Aundrea (aka Zerbert Baby). She mentioned that whether she makes them for breakfast or dinner they are a crowd pleaser. Double the recipe to ensure extras, and to give your kids a quick and filling breakfast for a couple of days. She also cuts up frozen strawberries (which are a lot cheaper than fresh) to make a yummy topping.

Firehouse Pancakes

Servings: 4-6

• 1 1/3 cups milk
• 2 eggs, slightly beaten
• 1 stick (1/2 cup) butter, melted
• 2 cups sifted all -purpose flour
• 1 cup confectioners' sugar
• 4 tablespoons baking powder
• 1/2 teaspoon salt
• Vegetable oil

Mix the milk, eggs, and butter in a small bowl. In another bowl, combine the flour, sugar, baking powder, and salt. Stir the milk mixture into the flour mixture until moistened.

Heat a lightly oiled griddle until hot. Spoon the mixture onto the griddle by ¼ cups and cook until bubbles appear evenly over the top of each pancake. Turn; cook on the second side until golden. Repeat until all the batter is used up.

Nick Santimauro
Ladder 166, F.D.N.Y.

Click here to print a copy of Firehouse Pancakes!

Friday Free-for-all: Fabric Fixes for Decorating on a Budget

Well, I decided it was time to share some of my wonderful secrets of decorating with fabrics. I feel that you can totally change the way a room feels with new curtains, pillows, placemats, and cushions! All of these items can be created the semi - homemade way with these tips.

First fabric can be found cheap if you know where to go and what to look for. First of all you can check out your local Wal-Mart and they carry fabric and will even give you free information on creating some items. They also carry my favorite, Liquid Stitch. This is for those of you that do not have a sewing machine. The second place I love is Mary Jo's fabric store that is located in Gastonia, North Carolina. You can shop online at http://www.maryjos.com/. Make sure to look under Limited Editions. You can find fabric for $3.50 a yard!!!


Spice Up Your Current Curtains -

You can create a custom look to store bought curtains by adding fabric to the bottom of the existing panels. So easy!!!! You find a coordinating fabric and measure to the floor and add two inches for a hem allowance. If you have a sewing machine you can stitch this new fabric right on the bottom in a matter of minutes. Place fabric at bottom of panel and leave 1/2 inch seam allowance on both sides. Fold, iron, and stitch the sides and do the same on the bottom seam. The just stitch the piece of fabric to the panel and there you go! An entire new look with an investment of proabably 2 yards of fabric at most. If you do not have a sewing machine you can use liquid stitch, depending on fabric. You would want to go with a thicker fabric on the bottom so you can not see the glue through the fabric. Here is a picture of some that I did.


Make a Runner - No Sew

I simply took the amount of fabric that I desired and gave a 1/2 inch seam allowance and ironed the hem down and then place the liquid stitch between the fabric and here you go!!! This would not work for a runner that was going to be washed on a regular basis. Mostly for decoration!

Share your no sew creations with me! Email them to Imogene at roofwithaview@gmail.com. Happy Friday, ya'll!

Thrifty Thursday- Store Coupon Policy & Coupon Lingo

Now that you've created your variable budget you're ready to shop! The first step is understanding the coupon policy at each store. When I started couponing I drove to the stores in my area. I went to the customer service desk at each store and asked the below questions.

Do you double coupons?
If you double, up to what value?
Do you triple coupons?
What is the coupon limit per visit?
What is your BOGO policy?
Do you accept MFR and Store coupons together?
What is your internet coupon policy?
When is your sales circular published?
Do you give a bag credit?
What is the coupon limit per type of item? (ie cereal)
Do you accept competitor coupons?

This process only took me one hour and is essential to planning your shopping trips.

PRACTICAL TOOL~ I created this Store Policy Grid and simply filled in the answer to each question. Note, at the bottom of the grid is a quick reference list of COUPON LINGO! You'll find these abbreviations used on the internet when planning your shopping trips. It's like another language so it's very helpful as a beginner to have a quick list to reference. I keep the store coupon policy and coupon lingo document in my coupon binder.

Richelle

Wednesday In The Word

A friend gave me a sign that I have hanging in a prominent place in my house, it reads,

"GOD ANSWERS KNEE MAIL."

The power of prayer has marked my life.

I have seen God's hand move in difficult circumstances, people healed, lives changed, hearts changed, the ordinary become extraordinary, a little become a lot and just an aimless day turn into one of purpose because of prayer to the Almighty God.

Moses was a man of prayer. Read this in Exodus 33:

7" Now Moses used to take a tent and pitch it outside the camp some distance away, calling it the "tent of meeting." Anyone inquiring of the LORD would go to the tent of meeting outside the camp. 8 And whenever Moses went out to the tent, all the people rose and stood at the entrances to their tents, watching Moses until he entered the tent. 9 As Moses went into the tent, the pillar of cloud would come down and stay at the entrance, while the LORD spoke with Moses. 10 Whenever the people saw the pillar of cloud standing at the entrance to the tent, they all stood and worshiped, each at the entrance to his tent. 11 The LORD would speak to Moses face to face, as a man speaks with his friend. Then Moses would return to the camp, but his young aide Joshua son of Nun did not leave the tent."

Moses knew that he could not lead people without the direction that God had to give him. He didn't even try. If we look closely we see and can shout from our rooftop :

We have to make an intentional decision to be alone with God.

We have to have a designated place (hopefully quiet).

In that place we have to seek the face of God and no one else.

Moses is an example to us of the power that we can all receive from time with God. This scripture says that Moses talked to God as a man talks to a friend. He didn't read from a book, recite a memorized prayer or ask someone else to talk to God for Him. He spoke to God face to face. Is it possible that we are missing power and direction in our life because we are not consciously turning to the only ONE that can give it.?

The Bible tells us that Moses not only talked to God as a friend but He found favor with God. Who of us is not looking for favor? If you are trying to do something to earn God's favor, please stop and just seek His face through prayer. See what happens and then share it with the rest of us. I know that you will know a peace and power that you have never known before.

I have to start my day with prayer, end my day with prayer and saturate every minute in between with prayer because I have learned that without prayer my life is powerless.

God does Answer Knee Mail.

I am praying for you.

Love,
Glenda

Training up Tuesday: Music for your Child's Soul

This post was a brief reality check about the time and energy spent on the things we choose to put into our minds and the consequences for us as adults...but what about our children?

We as parents are responsible for the things that fill our children's minds in their early years...while they are with us. We are also responsible to teach them the importance of guarding their hearts and minds even as they branch out from under our wing. The power of that influence is nothing to take lightly. The effects of our choices on our children's behalf will remain with them for the rest of their lives.

My husband made a statement recently that made a huge impression on me. We were talking with a friend who shared how much she loves being with our child especially because it has given her the opportunity to learn things about Jesus through ways she did not experience as a child...children's Bible songs, Bible stories with illustrations for children, etc.

I tried to put myself in her shoes and I couldn't wrap my mind around not having that foundation as a child. Then, my husband made this statement...

"You know...I was raised with these songs, stories and illustrations. Granted, I didn't live for the Lord in my adolescence to college years. Those scriptures would come to mind at times even when I was living like hell. BUT when I started to live for the Lord again, they all came back to me just as fresh as before...like a flood."

That gave me chills. It was also a great reminder at the utmost urgency of not only protecting my child's innocent mind but also filling it with wholesome, truthful, FUN things that are appealing and will drown out any competing, unfruitful, shallow, destructive messages with which she will most likely be bombarded. Even though the thought makes me cringe, she may wander far from home but we as parents will know what is planted in her heart and soul.

Sidenote: I recently heard a respected Bible teacher say that she prays Matthew 15:13 over her family every single day.

"Every plant which My heavenly Father did not plant shall be uprooted."

I LOVE that and pray it over my little one every nigh as I tuck her in bed.

OK. This has gotten WAY longer than intended. Sorry, ladies. Now, here are just a few "tools" in the musical arena to begin filling those impressionable minds. You might even enjoy them yourself!

BABIES TO PRESCHOOL:
The Praise Baby Collection-Comes in DVDs or CDs. If you want audio, I highly recommend purchasing the 3 disc box set here. Trust me that this music will settle a fussy baby in a heartbeat. It is a pure joy to hear them follow the tunes w/ their cooing and as they begin sounding out the syllables, then words. Never underestimate your baby's ability to get his/her praise on. You will learn the true meaning of being "born to worship." You'll even love singing right along with them!

Lullabies by Laura Kauffman- If you or your babe need to unwind and relax, this is a sweet CD that will loosen every muscle in your body. The acoustics mixed with Laura's voice make it a great lullaby CD.





Touch the Sky is for preschool children ages 3-5 and brought to you by the Willow Creek Association. You can visit here to learn motions to each song so you are guaranteed to have EVEN more fun with your child(ren). To purchase, click here.

CHILDREN:
Phil Joel Deliberate Kids-Love Him! This is his first children's project and it is a guaranteed "boom-chaka-laka-ROCKIN' GOOD TIME!" full of "Biblical Truth, guitars, grooves and melodies designed to keep the whole family rockin!" His website is also a fun resource for online games and such...a great place for some homeschool fun.

The Big Story Soundtrack CD-This is not just a collection of music that you can listen to in your car, home or office. It is also a way for parents and kids to connect, talk and think about what twelve exciting Bible Stories have to do with their lives.

Pre-teens to Teens:

Here are some great artists that can contribute to a KICKIN' playlist on your KOOOOOL Kid's Ipod Playlist!

• Starfield
• David Crowder Band
• Phil Joel
• Third Day
• Toby Mac
• Leeland
• Building 429
• Shane & Shane
• Switchfoot
• Delirious
• Sanctus Real
• Lincoln Brewster
• Kutless
• Tree63
• Passion Worship Band
• Charlie Hall
• Chris Tomlin

You can check out some more teen friendly music at 106.9 The Edge, as well. What musical suggestions do YOU have along these lines? Share them with us!

21 Days

Most polls show that it takes 21 days to form a habit. So, I guess that means, it's going to take 11 more days for me to be in the "habit" of exercising. I started doing The Firm exercise DVD this month. The hardest things to stick with are the things that are not habitual in your life. For example: starting a new diet plan, trying to wake up earlier, etc.

If you stick with something for 21 days, it becomes routine to you. What is it that you want to look different in your routine? For me, it's time with God and exercise. So, for the next 21 days, I am committed to making these a priority. We'll see if this "habit" kicks in!

Fun 21 day fact: For every night that you don't wash your face - you age your face 21 days! Can you believe that? I heard that as a teenager and I have washed my face EVERY NIGHT since then!

21 Days..that's not too bad. Stick with it, whatever it is, get over that hump and you've formed a GOOD habit!

Safeguard Your Spouse Sunday: Betrayal

We've decided to make Sunday's feature on the topic of spouses...loving them, submitting to them, forgiving them, honoring them...SAFEGUARDing them. You name it. We'll cover it.

But why "safeguard?" Let's just take a quick look at Webster for the definition:

1. One who, or that which, defends or protects; defense; protection.

2. A precautionary measure warding off impending danger or damage or injury.

3. An escort providing safe passage through a region especially in time of war.

4. Something that offers security from danger

If you're reading this, chances are you desire (hopefully) all of the above definitions in relation to your marriage but we'll save the "how" for....

...your feature contributor, Annie! If you didn't meet Annie on our introduction of the Women of RWAV, you can learn more about her and her heart for your marriages here. It won't take long before you'll love her to pieces and want to "sop her up with a biscuit." :) Have at it, Annie girl!
****************************************
Hi ladies!!!

I know we want to keep things upbeat here but but I am going to "cut to the chase." I keep being faced with people going through marital discord and adultry

March 2006, October 2008 and January 2009 were the three hardest moments of my life.

Three couples who are dear to my heart began the struggle of recovering from a betrayal of their spouse. Two men and one woman chose to look outside their marriages to find love and fulfillment.

I wasn't the spouse but the betrayal affected every part of my life and my soul. If you have experienced this type of betrayal or been the one to betray you know the gut wrenching pain I am talking about. Questions raced through my mind.

Who can I talk to?
How will they survive?
Divorce is not an option, there are precious children, grandchildren involved!

Who do we call?

Who can fix this?
Why? Why? Why!!

I really don't want to be apart of this ministry but feel called to SHOUT from the rooftop that there is hope. Reconciliation is possible and a marriage can survive.

If you can relate to any of the above, there is a ministry called Affair Recovery Center that is a great starting point. They provide great information and resources for anyone facing betrayal from a spouse (including pornography, destructive behaviors, or even inappropriate friendships outside of marriage). On this site you will find:

-31 reasons for anyone entangled in adultery to STOP an affair. (click here)
-A free affair analysis (click here)
-Online recovery groups (click here)
-Many other great tools.

God is the only one who can heal such pain. Forgiveness does not happen with one statement of "I forgive you". I thought that was how this worked...forgive and move forward. Honestly, it takes a long time and many highs and lows to find peace within the relationship. I am no expert but I have seen amazing things happen through this ministry and Rick Reynold's counseling center.

It is a lonely, dark place when a woman or man finds themselves betrayed by their spouse. It can also be a dark place for the betrayer because the sin is entangling their life.

For God, who said, "Light shall shine out of darkness," is the One who has shone in our hearts to give the Light of the knowledge of the glory of God in the face of Christ. 2 Corinthians 4:6

Our God who spoke light into the world at the beginning of earthly time has the power to overcome whatever hurt you may have today.

Feel free to email Annie at roofwithaview@gmail.com.

Blessings to all my sisters.
xoxo
Annie

Stay-at-home Saturday

Ladies,

We've had some requests for topics that need to be shown a lil' RWAV love. Therefore, we are changing our former Savory Saturday (which included one recipe for an easy Sunday meal idea) into Stay-at-home Saturday which will include:

-a little diddy on women just like you--moms and wives--that love the Lord Jesus and have a business which utilizes the skills and talents He has given them. This feature just might even enable you to do a little Saturday shopping in the confines of your own home. :) We'll chalk this up to our Mommy Marketing Moment.

PLUS

-one or two of YOUR tried 'n true (TNT) household tips (TNT Tips). This is where you're gonna get involved. Tee hee hee hee.

AND

-Savory Smackerel--a recipe (no worries...we aren't taking away that recipe)

Without further ado, let's get this show on the road.

Mommy Marketing Moment:
Our first Mommy Marketing Moment feature is not technically a "mommy run" business so to speak but it IS a business 100% committed to your Mommy needs and owned/operated by a Christian family.

Chit Chat Baby is a leading online retailer in the juvenile industry (largely baby equipment and accessories). They have also recently expanded to a new storefront in Fort Mill, SC if you happen in the area. You are guaranteed to be pleased with their selection, customer service, quality and prices.

Chit Chat Baby actually happens to be giving away TWO Inglesina Zippy stroller's for the month of February. Be sure to go to their website to register. They hold great giveaways every month and we've had LOTS of friends win so don't forget to keep checking back for the months to come. Let's hear it for Chit Chat Baby!!!!

TNT TIP:
Since Spring/Easter are quickly approaching, you'll no doubt be dying and decorating eggs for decoration, Easter egg hunts, Easter baskets, Egg tosses, etc. It never fails that at least one egg goes SPLAT on the floor. Don't you hate it when that happens?! This year you'll be prepared! Just whip out this little tidbit provided by Amy:

I learned this in college and have really used it, so I can say it works. If you accidentally drop an egg on the floor (mine have rolled off the counter before too), instead of trying to pick up all the goo with paper towels try this:

-Liberally sprinkle salt on the mess (don’t hold back – go nuts with the salt!).
-Give it a few minutes and it will all sort of congeal.
-Then you can scoop up the congealed glop with a pancake turner and dump it in the trash can. Then just wipe up any residue off the floor.
-Presto!

How fun was that?!? Now, it's your turn! Email us your random, helpful household tips that could help fellow homemakers in a pinch. Don't you DARE underestimate yourself and say "you don't have any." Chances are...if you've come across a situation, every single one of us has encountered that same situation and could benefit from your insight. So, email us at roofwithaview@gmail.com!

Savory Smackerel:
Mrs. Amy A's recipe was such a hit last week that she found it in her heart to give us another smackerel from her kitchen. She mentioned that this recipe comes from our good ole' church cookbook which never fails. One word, Amy...Mahalo!

Hawaiian Chicken (serves 4)

• 3-4 chicken breasts, cut into bite-sized pieces


• ¼ c. butter


• 1 can pineapple chunks (avoid the kind in heavy syrup; try to go for the ones in 100% juice. Better yet, get a fresh pineapple which is just starting to show up in stores!)


• ½ c. thinly sliced onions


• 2 tsp. salt


• ¼ tsp. garlic salt


• 1 large green pepper, cut in strips(if your family doesn’t like pepper, just leave it out)

Sauce:

• 2 tsp. apple cider vinegar


• 2 tsp. soy sauce


• ½ c. brown sugar


• 2 tsp. cornstarch


• ½ tsp. ginger

1. Melt butter over medium heat. Brown chicken pieces in butter.


2. Drain pineapple and save juices*. Add ¼ c. juice to onion, salt and garlic salt.


3. Add juice mixture to chicken. Cover and cook for 30 minutes (may need to turn down heat).


4. Combine ingredients for sauce. Mix until smooth and pour over chicken.


5. Add pineapple chunks and pepper strips. If you want to get fancy you can also sprinkle coconut on top!


6. Serve over rice with a side of stir-fry veggies.

*If you use a fresh pineapple, you may need to purchase a small can of pineapple juice for the sauce.

Click here to print a copy of the Hawaiian Chicken recipe!

Free-for-all Friday: Laughter is the best medicine!

Our dear Donna was lurking around in the blog world and came to one of her friend's blog. Curiosity got the best of her and she ventured to a "friend" of her friend's blog and clicked on this post where she happened to be inspired with the cutest idea ever...A Laugh Jar!

Basically it's a jar that sits in your home (on a shelf, in the kitchen, pretty much anywhere your little heart desires). When your child says or does something funny, you write it down on a piece of paper, including the date, and place it in the jar. If you ever need a laugh--and we ALL do especially these days-- you pull out a piece of paper to read one of your favorite funny stories. On New Year's Eve, you can go through ALL the stories and have yourself a good ol' laugh session. You can also put them in a book so your children can look at them in years to come.

Here is Donna's laugh jar:

Here is another example I saw online w/ the matching memory book. As you can see, any sized jar will do. If you happen to have one (or more) child(ren) that keeps you in stitches ALL day long, every day. You may need to use a GIANT jar like this otherwise you are likely to run out of room.

One good thing about this idea is it "kills lots of birds with one stone." It can be a unique gift for a fellow mom, fun craft on a minimal budget, cute way to spice up your home decor and just all around good, wholesome entertainment.

If you decide to take on this project, we would love to see some of YOUR laugh jars. Email us pictures of them to us at roofwithaview@gmail.com. Happy Friday!

He will yet fill your mouth with laughter and your lips with shouts of joy. -Job 8:21

Thrifty Thursday: Grocery & Toiletry Budget

Ok girls, so far we've learned how to collect, clip, and organize coupons. I know you're itching to save money but we have one more step before we can go shopping. We MUST set a budget for our groceries and toiletries!

In the simplest of definitions, a "fixed expense" is one that has a specific due date (mortgage, car payment, student loan, etc). A "variable expense" is one that does not have a due date but is a constant expense. This amount will naturally vary from month to month, but is a necessity. It is my belief that variable expenses are the major stumbling block of family spending!

For the last four years we have tracked every single cent that comes in and out of our house. Now, I love all things Excel but my DH could care less. In order to get him involved I created a VERY SIMPLE variable budget grid.


Every time we spend money it must be entered into one of the four categories- Fuel, Groceries & Toiletries, Miscellaneous, and Entertainment. When we first started we simply entered the amounts that we spent. I wish I could say that we stopped spending when we reached that category limit, but we didn't. We were tracking our spending instead of living by the budget. Surprisingly, we discovered that we were spending much more than anticipated!

So, here's your homework.
1) Print the variable spending grid.
2) Enter a budget amount for each category.
3a) Start tracking your variable spending! OR
3b) Take your last three months of bank statements and enter every expense (that is not fixed) into a variable spending category.

I think you will be shocked by the results.

One final note, in January we transitioned to a cash budget system for Groceries & Toiletries and Entertainment. This has been the BEST thing we've done to prevent us from going over our budget. I wish we had done this sooner!!!! I have $75 per week for groceries/toiletries. When I'm in the store shopping I carefully track the price of each item. If my groceries exceed my cash then I put things back on the shelf. If I've miscalculated and my total is more then anticipated I will ask the cashier to remove something. No matter what you have to stick to your budget!!! We committed to eating PB&J if it meant that we could stick to our budget. Thankfully, this hasn't happened and we actually have more food than ever before!

Getting control of these variable items WILL save you hundreds of dollars every month! I know from experience. Please let me know if you have any questions. We are on this journey together!

Richelle

Wednesday In The Word: Do not despair!

Today, I want to share with you from my heart about what God has shown me through some deep moments of sorrow. I hesitate to do it, because I would prefer to just talk about happy times and experiences, but life in the natural isn't all happy and we need the strength and support that God alone has to offer us. Also, times of sorrow are often the moments that God shows us His strength and enables that strength to then become part of our own character.

I have learned in the past few years that there is a difference between sadness and sorrow. Sadness is a surface wound and sorrow is like a deep cut that takes a long time to heal. My experience in recent days has been sorrow.

There have been days in the past three years that I would be startled by my own sighs of sorrow. I remember one day standing in my kitchen, and honestly, I dont know how long I was standing there, but my trance was broken when I heard my own sighs. I then knew what the Bible is talking about when it speaks of groanings too deep to utter. In the midst of this, the only thing I could do was place my life up against Jesus and let Him carry me. And carry me He has, every step of the way.

This one great scripture has become like my theme over the past three years.

"I would have despaired unless I had believed that I would see the goodness of the LORD in the land of the living." Psalm 27:13

Despair is deep sorrow. I have walked with God long enough to have seen, before our son went to heaven, that God had brought me through many other seasons of life. When Nathan died, I had to decide to remember all the ways that God had shown up in my life in days already passed. The Bible tells us to remember those days because they provide pictures and visible demonstration of His power.

You may be in a season of despair. Your job may be over, you lost a child of your own, you are having financial difficulty or you can fill in the blank. This is what I want to shout from the rooftop this week.

DO NOT DESPAIR.

REMEMBER WHO GOD IS.

THINK ABOUT WAYS HE HAS ALREADY BROUGHT YOU TO THIS POINT.

LEAN ON HIM FOR HE CARES FOR YOU.

We are walking in the land of the living together and I am praying for you that your deep sorrow be turned to joy.

Until we meet on the roof next week.

Blessings,
Glenda

1000th Hit Celebration Giveaway!

Ladies!

We are sooooo excited to announce that Roof with a View has reached its 1,000th hit since going live on February 2nd. In honor of RWAV's 1,000 viewings, we are hosting a FUN and exciting GIVEAWAY. Trust me that you don't want to miss out on this. Just read carefully below and get yourself entered, doggoneit! You gotta be in it to WIN it. :)

The winner of this giveaway will receive a DAHLIN' apron made by one of our very own RWAV women, Aundrea. Here is Aundrea modeling the apron that she made especially for our giveaway winner.

Notice the apron is in keeping w/ the RWAV design theme...which by the way, according to a comment on our artist, Jaime's, blog, the retro birdie is soooo the new black. :)

Thank you, Aundrea. Now, to enter:

• Make a comment ON THIS POST & tell us what you've enjoyed most about RWAV (one entry). Don't forget to leave your email address so we can notify the lucky winner.
  
• Blog about this GIVEAWAY on your personal blog and leave a comment ON THIS POST including the link to your blog in your comment. (2 more entries).
  
• Get MORE entries! Just make separate comments ON THIS POST for each EXTRA ENTRY BONUS.

EXTRA ENTRY BONUSES:

• Add our button to your blog (1 extra entry).
  
• Email 3 friends about RWAV and this GIVEAWAY. CC us at roofwithaview@gmail.com (1 extra entry)


• Become a FOLLOWER of RWAV (located in the sidebar) (2 extra entries). If you're already a subscriber, be sure to let us know ON THIS POST!
  
• Add us to your Twitter or Facebook and let us know ON THIS POST. (2 extra entries)

Again, don't forget to leave your email address in your comment(s) ON THIS POST so we can notify the lucky winner.

Winner will be selected at random. Giveaway ends on 02/28/09 and the winner will be announced on 03/01/09. Let the games begin!!!!

Training Up Tuesday: Are You Raising Children that You Would Want to Be Friends With?

Have you every asked yourself that question? I certainly have.

Parenting was never intended to be brain science (did I spell that right). But, if you are like me, at times, I have made it a very complicated job, instead of using my God given common sense.

So, today I thought I would share with you a tool I use on a daily basis that helps me keep parenting simple. Follow me...





Yep, that's it! That little pink sheet of paper is my Parent's Checklist. My mother-in-law gave it to me a number of years ago. This checklist offers me an opportunity to make an impact on my children's lives every time I open the fridge. (And that happens often in my house. That is why I hung it there!) Let me show you why.

Some of the items are easy: I do these everyday

• Read to my child (Proverbs 4:1-4)


• Sing or listen to music with my child (Psalm 8:2)

Some of them, not so much:

• Did not punish my child when I was angry (Psalm 103:8-14)


• Forgave my child immediately (2 Corinthians 2:7-8)


• Modeled only the attributes I want my child to emulate (1 Corinthians 4:16)
  

The beauty of the list is that it really challenges me on a daily basis to evaluate not my children's actions but my own. And what I found as I started to incorporate these small things into my daily routine was that the parenting comes in the little moments with my children.

So, here is what I am asking you to do, a challenge per say. Print a copy of the Checklist and put it somewhere you frequent often. Start to incorporate the items on the checklist into your day, and see if parenting becomes a little less complicated.

We might have many goals for our children, but in the end, I really want my boys to be godly friends. I've realized that starts with me.

North Point: A Great Mall for Kids (and Parents) in the Atlanta Area

North Point Mall is actually in Alpharetta--which is about half an hour or so from downtown, depending on traffic. (Then again, everything in Atlanta depends on traffic.) Anyway, if you find yourself in the neighborhood and looking for a fun place to take the kids on a day that's too rainy, too hot, too cold, etc., then you may want to check out North Point Mall. North Point is a great shopping destination for those of the family variety.

For starters, North Point is where you will find the American Girl Boutique and Bistro. To locate the store within the mall, simply follow the cute little girls carrying their American Girl dolls--you'll easily spot them throughout North Point. Believe me when I say that the American Girl store requires a blog entry all its own. Actually, I don't even think one post could cover it.

Another kid favorite at North Point is Build-A-Bear Workshop, where you can stuff your own furry friend and dress and accessorize him (or her) to your heart's desire. You'll also get a personalized birth certificate and a fun box in which to carry your new creature home.

Of course, no visit to North Point is complete for any child without a ride on the beautiful carousel, which is located in the food court on the upper level. The food court itself offers a great variety of restaurants as well as a good amount of seating, including child tables and chairs. I've actually seen birthday parties taking place in the food court (as well as at American Girl and Build-A-Bear)!

At the other end of the mall, you'll find a very fun play area for toddlers--not to mention a Pottery Barn Kids store. What little girl doesn't like to stop in at PBK and play with the kitchens, doll houses, and other fun things? Other children's stores worth a look include Janie & Jack, Gymboree, Baby Gap, The Children's Place, and The Disney Store. Now, if North Point would get a Hanna Andersson shop, then it would be even better!

For Mom, there is an H&M store--but this one only carries clothing for adults. (For children's fashions, you'll have to visit the Atlantic Station H&M store inside the perimeter (ITP). FYI, "the perimeter" is 285, which circles the city. I lived here for a good while before I finally figured that out. When I heard people talking about "the perimeter," I just went along like I knew what they were talking about. But I digress ...)

This is getting pretty lengthy, but I will close by letting you know that North Point also has some of the largest and most stroller friendly elevators I've ever seen. It's amazing how many people can fit inside those things!

Marvelous Monday: I'm Coming out of the closet, about my closet!

If I were to take a picture of any other room in my house right now, it would look neat and orderly. I make my bed every morning, and try to keep the kitchen free of clutter. But this is the skeleton in my "closet". I am really resisting the urge to just delete this post all together. But I feel like if I air my "dirty laundry" I will feel a burden lifted. This is my closet. I have winter and summer clothes colliding in here and it's created the PERFECT STORM! I have a bucket of clothes I want to sell on ebay and clothes I haven't worn in years. They're going...buh-bye! I wish I could have the Closet Innovations people come and do this for me, but I created the mess, I gotta clean it up! Consider this my BEFORE picture.


Who needs 10 pairs of pj's? I thought I did. But now I'm down to 5. I made plenty of space so that keeping it neat and tidy shouldn't be so difficult. And the purses...OH, the purses. I got rid of 4 and cleaned out the rest. And let me tell you, I found some treasures!!! Here's just a few things I found:

My favorite silver earrings with "A" on them

My tweezers

68 cents - finder's keepers! :)

$25 Gift card to Chili's - cha-ching!

VS mints

Pens/Pencils and one eyeliner

And 2 books of stamps!
AFTER:
So during this process, I was motivated. Now, I'm going to tackle the kitchen drawers and my pantry. I'm going to tackle them ALL! No closet or cabinet is safe!
Here's my challenge to you...

Pick one cabinet, drawer, sock bin, toy basket, etc. Clean it out! You'll be surprised how much better it will make you feel. And, getting dressed in the morning is much more fun. My clothes feel a little more appreciated too! :)

I'm so excited for Paul to come home and see this. He'll actually be able to get to HIS closet now without having to STEP OVER my stuff! Embarrassing!

Happy Sunday!

Hi ladies!

Just wanted to keep you posted that RWAV is taking a rest just for today. Hope you have been able to enjoy time with the one's you love throughout the weekend.

Stay tuned for Monday with Angela and an exciting giveaway that we have coming up next week!

We would LOVE to hear the highlight of any of your Valentine's or a special way that your spouse surprised you. Valentine's can be very challenging for some spouses let's give them credit where credit is due. Will you comment and share your highlights with us?!??!

Love ya'll and Happy Sunday!

P.S. Don't forget those papers so you'll have more coupons for Thrifty Thursday.

Savory Saturday: Bacon Wrapped BBQ Chicken

This week's Savory Saturday recipe is actually a guest post from our friend, Amy A. This recipe sounds easy and would be so PERFECT for Sunday lunch/dinner. It can simmer in the crockpot while you're at church and you can walk in the door to it's yummy aroma! Thank you, Amy!

Bacon-Wrapped BBQ Chicken
(Amy said she got this off a blog but I don't know which one. If you happen to know the blog, feel free to give it a shout out!)

3-4 chicken breasts
½ c. BBQ sauce*****
1-2 apples, peeled and grated (Amy used applesauce – maybe ½ c.?)
1 lemon, juiced (leave it out if you use applesauce)
6 slices bacon

Mix BBQ sauce, apples and lemon together in a small bowl; set aside.Wrap chicken breasts in bacon strips and place in bottom of slow cooker.Pour sauce mixture over chicken.Set cooker to LOW and cook 8 hours.

*****Amy said she often makes her own BBQ sauce, but has lately been buying Montgomery Inn sauce. It’s from a restaurant in Cincinnati and they’ve started selling it at Super Wal-Mart. It tastes the most homemade without that heavy smoky flavor. She served this with baked rice and mashed sweet potatoes and it was a hit! AND she said, "I cut my chicken breasts in half, which requires a little more bacon. I do this for portion control. If my husband has a whole chicken breast then he usually wants a second helping. However, when I serve him 2 half portions then he feels like he’s eaten more. Don’t tell him I told you that!! " GREAT tip.

Click her to print a copy of the Bacon-Wrapped BBQ Chicken Recipe!

HAPPY VALENTINE'S, DAY!!!!!

Free-for-all-Friday: Decorating with your Valentine's flowers!

I love fresh flowers in my house, but keeping them year round can really be a budget buster! I have a close friend that has taught me how to make home arrangements at a fraction of the cost of store bought arrangements AND they last longer.

With Valentine's Day coming up tomorrow, we thought this would be a great time to share these decorating tips for your Valentine's flowers.

I know my husband stops by the grocery every year and brings me flowers that are in a bunch. I like to make those flowers into an arrangement that looks like it cost a fortune (even if it didn't). The best part is it's a way to begin having flowers in your home year round. Just follow these seven easy steps and you, too, can make the most out of your fresh flowers!

1. First, find a vase(s) that you would like to use. Get creative. You can use glasses, pitchers, fish bowls, and many more. My favorite is happens to be a silver caddy from Southern Living. You can also use four small juice glasses to get the same effect.

2. Second, you need greenery. You will find this right outside your door. I try to always have a variety of three different leaves from three different bushes in our yard. Cut some sprigs at all different lengths. This will make the arranging easier.

4. Always put the greenery in the container before the flowers.

5. Third, you need flowers.

6. Flowers bought in bunches are usually cut at different heights. This will help you make one clean cut at your desired length. To know your desired length, it will help if you hold the flowers by the vase to see where you would like the flowers to stand lengthwise. Make sure cut the length too high or they will wilt soon.

7. The final step is to insert the flowers evenly through the arrangement and there you go!!! Once you do this a couple of times, you will find it begins just to take minutes.

The arrangement should last you at least a week, but roses do not last as long as mums and some other seasonal flowers. When you see a couple of sad looking flowers, it is time to redo the arrangement. The arrangement pictured below consisted of gerber daisies that outlasted the rest. So I took my Southern Living caddy and cut the greenery and gerbers down. It made a smaller arrangement that lasted another week.

Make sure to look for bargains in the floral sections at your grocery store. I budget $4 every two weeks and keep flowers in the house year round and love it!!!

We would love to post some of your creations!!! If you try this decorating idea, please share your art work by emailing pictures to Imogene at roofwithaview@gmail.com.

Have Fun!
Imogene

Thrifty Thursday- Organizing Coupons

Now that you bought the Sunday paper it's time to organize your coupons! (Click here to learn the most efficient way to clip your coupons) I use the "binder method" and have great success with it! Here are the supplies:

3" Zipper Binder (a handle/strap is very nice)
Divider Tabs (18 tabs)

Baseball Card Holders (I use 60 pages)

Price Grid (18 sheets)

Photo page (with two 4X6 pockets)
Scissors
Calculator
Zipper Pencil Pouch

First, be sure to put your contact information in your binder!


DIVIDER TABS/BASEBALL CARD HOLDERS: I use the baseball card holder pages for my coupons and store cards. Click here to view and print the 18 divider tabs. They are in the order of the aisles of most grocery stores. Some of the tabs have "sub categories" to make filing easier. I use a label maker and put the name of the sub category on the top of the baseball card page. For example, under the Canned divider tab I have a Soup sub category. See picture below:

Below is a list of the sub categories when applicable. (Note: if a tab is not listed then it doesn't have a sub category)

• Canned- Soup, Fruit, Meat, Vegetables
• Baking- Mixes, Oil & Sugar, Seasonings
• Cereal & Breakfast- Brand names of cereal (ie Kelloggs, etc.)
• Cleaning Supplies- All Purpose, Bathroom, Dish Detergent, Disinfectant, Furniture & Floor, Glass
• Paper & Plastic- Cups & Plates, Plastic, Tissue, Toilet Paper, Towels & Napkins
• Frozen- Bread, Dessert, Meat, Veg/Fruit/Potatoe
• Dairy & Refrigerated- Bread, Cheese, Eggs & Butter, Yogurt,
• Health & Beauty- Band-Aids, Deodorant, Face, Feminine, Hair, Lotion, Make Up, Shaving, Soap, Tooth Products, Medicine & Vitamins

PHOTO PAGES (with two 4X6 pockets):

• I use the two pocket page to plan for my shopping trips. I put a label with the name of the store on the top of the page. In the top pocket I put all the coupons I plan to use for my trip. While shopping, I move the coupon from the top pocket to the bottom pocket when I find the item that I'm going to buy. When I get to the register I simply pull out all the coupons from the bottom pocket and hand them over. Trust me, an organized shopper means a happy cashier!
• If I decide not to use a coupon (either the store is out of the item or it wasn't a good deal) then I put it in a different page labeled "re-file". This prevents coupons from falling all over the place and getting lost. Trust me, I know from experience (and some tears)!
• I also use the photo size page for: the Bread sub category (under dairy & refrigerated). There are so many Pillsbury coupons they fit much better in this size rather than the baseball card holder. I also use the photo size page for: Medicine & Vitamins (under health & beauty). I alphabetize them A-I, J-R, S-U, V-Z.

PRICE GRID: This is probably the most important tool of your entire binder!!! Click here to download the form. The price grid helps you track the price of common items that you buy. The only way you are going to know whether to use a coupon is to know where you can find that item at the lowest price. I put one price grid in the front of each tab (for a total of 18 price grids). Simply use your reciept when you get home from your shopping trip to fill in the items and the price. After two months you'll find that you tend to buy the same things over and over. You'll become aware of the best deals and if a coupon is worth using. The goal is to NEVER BUY THINGS AT FULL PRICE AGAIN! Your aim: to buy items when they're on sale AND when you have a coupon. Trust me, you will save hundreds of dollars!!!

ZIPPER PENCIL POUCH- I use this to hold my receipts and my grocery cash. Trust me, it is best to use a cash envelope system! You will be forced to take things out of your cart if you don't have enough money. There will always be a good deal...but it's not a good deal for your family if it makes you go over budget! Remember, your goal is to save money...not to get more things for the same amount of money! Currently we are on a $75 per week food & toiletry budget. This is a significant improvement from Oct 2008, but I'm still trying to get it lower.

Organizing your coupons is the key to saving money! If you can't find your coupons then you won't use them. There are many different methods to organize--you need to decide what is best for you. Here are a few other ideas:

1) Filing your Sunday paper inserts (RP, SS, P&G). This is the method that Coupon Mom suggests in her free e-book. I did this at first and it saves you time initially. However, when I was planning for my first triple coupon shopping trip I found it very difficult! It’s not easy to remember all of the coupons. To find one, you have to use her online coupon database to find the date and insert of the item. Then, flip through the correct insert to clip your coupon. Not to mention you won’t always have a coupon with you when you see a clearanced item.
2) A coupon box- this has been very successful for some of my friends. The example I show has a top to the box. This is very important because I have heard of kids knocking it over. What a horrible, time consuming mess! I will note that with the binder method I like the ease of seeing every coupon at a glance on the baseball holder page.

So, what organization method do you use? Leave me a comment and tell me how you like it! If you're new to couponing let us what you decide. This is the beginning of an exciting journey to change how your family spends money!

Richelle

Wednesday In The Word: Labels

I am thinking of calling this the Wednesday Shout Out because the more I look at our theme verse, it seems a Wednesday SHOUT OUT is the way to go. What do you think?

"What I tell you in the darkness, speak in the light, and what you hear whispered in your ear, proclaim upon the housetops"

For various reasons, I have given a lot of thought this week about the labels people put on each other for good or bad. I'm sure you know what I mean, because immediately, your mind may have gone to a label that some one put on you as a child that you just can't seem to get over. You my have even labeled yourself to be "this or that," and it is paralyzing your efforts to be all that God called you to be. Just this week in conversations with other women I have heard unnecessary labeling of others regarding children. Labels are so confining and damaging when they are not words of gracious instruction or encouragement.

Our labels should be in light of what God has been in our lives. Before we come into a relationship with Him, we live in darkness. It is the things in our lives that He transforms from darkness to life that He wants us to SHOUT from our rooftops. I can shout,

HE TOOK MY SHYNESS and turned it into a BOLDNESS,
HE GAVE ME CONFIDENCE when I had none,
HE GAVE ME GODLY FRIENDS,
HE HELPED ME MAKE BETTER GRADES IN SCHOOL,
HE TOOK MY DESIRE TO PLEASE PEOPLE and turned it into A DESIRE TO PLEASE HIM FIRST.

In the darkness my labels were shy, no self confidence, stupid and people pleaser. What were yours?

The only labels that matter are the ones God puts on you. Listen to this.

" You are a chosen people, a royal priesthood, a holy nation, a people belonging to God, that you may declare the praises of Him who called you out of darkness into His wonderful light."
I Peter 2:9

As a follower of Jesus your old labels are gone and your new labels are:

Chosen
Royal
Holy
Owned By God
Worshipper
Changed

This week remember who you are in Christ and label others accordingly. Let me know what happens.

If you have never received Christ. You can right now. Just pray, Lord I am a sinner, I need you to save me from my sin. Please come into my heart and life. When you pray that prayer He will come into your life and you will be changed.

Until we SHOUT from our roof next Wednesday may you be blessed and be a blessing!

Glenda

Valentine Day Crafts

If you're looking for some last minute Valentine's Day crafts to make for teachers, neighbors or friends, click here for a great idea from one of my friends. I made these yesterday for my daughter's teachers and it was a very easy craft that turned out adorable. The example given on the link is for Christmas, but I used Valentine designed scrap paper to make it more appropriate for this time of year.

My friend, Nancy, also had a great idea for a teacher's gift:

1. Buy the Target brand hand sanitizer (like Purell).
2. Peel off the front and back labels and then take a product like "Goo Gone" to remove the residue.
3. Decorate the clear bottle with cute Valentine stickers.
4. Take some Valentine ribbon and tie a cute bow around the bottom of the hand pump.

Since we are still in the midst of cold season, any teacher would welcome this gift to sit on his/her desk!

Training Up Tuesday: I Did the Impossible!

I did the impossible task!

I never thought it possible until I decided that I no longer wanted the added expense of diapers. Not to mention, my middle child will be three in a month, so I figured, “why not give it a whirl?”

My Charley, after 3 grueling days, is now potty trained.

Charley is my son that was diagnosed with Autism about a year ago. He is the one I told everyone (at the YMCA, Sunday school, etc.) that he just has NO interest in the potty. Well, after a few small changes, the boy is rearing to go!

We were told to make this event like a party. Yes, that did include a portable DVD in the bathroom, as well as Mommy’s famous healthy cookies and “all natural” lollipops (you may notice I have a fetish for health…I’ll get onto it more some other day)!

We followed a procedure given to us by one of Charley’s therapists. This procedure was developed by Foxx and Azrin and is often used by parents with children with learning disabilities, but by no means hinders a child who is typical.

The main jist of it is to schedule potty time (every 30 minutes for example) and correct accidents by “positive practice.”

• If the child has an accident between the scheduled potty time, you take the child to the toilet and have them sit on it.


• Put on the wet pants and underwear (it does sound cruel, but after several times, my little guy expected it).


• Take them back to the spot they had the accident.


• At that point, tell them not to tinkle in the “kitchen” for example, but that we “tinkle” in the potty.


• Repeat this between 3 – 5 times, and change your child into dry clothing.

With Charley, we just did this 3 times. He was actually getting into this process, and would count down the trials. Don't get me wrong. The first day was horrendous. We washed, no joke, 20 pairs of McQueen and Thomas the Train underpants, as well as the soiled pants. My husband and I were exhausted. The next day was a little smoother. I’m talking maybe 10 pairs of underpants. Finally, today after 2 mistakes, he got it AND is excited and so very very proud of himself. I am so proud of him!

I know he is going to have some mistakes, but at least we are on the right track and it was well worth the time and energy. There are some more details to this process, so if you are having a difficult time with your little one in terms of potty training, email Ellen at roofwithaview@gmail.com. I would love to hear from you and give you more details.

Also, we want to hear from you! Please send us other child rearing topics that you want addressed or related questions you may have. Our resident expert(s) are here to encourage you! Email them to roofwithaview@gmail.com.

Homework Reminder!

Ladies, Don't forget your homework for Thursday. The day is still young so you have plenty of time to run out and purchase your Sunday paper...maybe even two if you're REALLY serious. :) Carolina Clipper, here we come!

Sunday!

Hi ladies!

Hope ya'll are having a great weekend! Originally, it was planned just to mention that Sunday's feature is still in the works, we hope you are enjoying down time with your families before a new week and to check back on Monday for guaranteed fun with Angela.

...until tonight.

Let me set the scene:
Girls night out.
Movie theater.
EVERY seat is full. The theater is SO crowded that my girlfriend and I are sitting on the the second row.

Rewind:
A reoccuring life verse for me has been Proverbs 4:23.

My dad shared this verse in his sermon at our wedding.

It is engraved on the inside of both my husband's and my wedding bands.
It was even written on the wall above the water fountain at the YMCA I attended for my workout this morning.

"Above all else, guard your heart, for it is the wellspring of life."

How does this verse apply to our life as wives and mothers? Back to the movie theater...

You see...it was my girlfriend's birthday and we wanted to celebrate with a good chick flick. Our selection of the evening happened to be He's Just Not That Into You. I had no clue what it was going to be about but knew that I loved the cast.

The movie begins. It quickly becomes apparent that the movie is all about relationships...friendships as well as dating, marital and extramarital relationships. Basically, there is no moral standard for sex (which isn't too much of a surprise for Hollywood) but the barometer for a "solid" relationship was subtle and disturbing...at least where marriage is concerned.

In summary, the most solid, stable relationship in the movie is between a "live-in" couple. The worst relationship happens to be between a married couple. There is a negative connotation of marriage...as if it is a burden. For example, in a heart to heart convo, two of the characters seriously conclude that "plenty of married people have figured out that they actually belong with someone else." This justification was followed by one of the girls tempting a handsome husband away from his beautiful wife. Plugged In Online hits the nail on the head when they write that the movie:

"largely reflects our culture's current ideas about love, sex and relationships—most of which are utterly disconnected from what Scripture has to say about these significant subjects. In that sense, the movie aptly illustrates Judges 17:6 'Every man did that which was right in his own eyes'"

All of this to say, I left the theater FURIOUS. It made me loathe seductive, floozy, homewreckin' women AND the men who fall for them. I immediately was spending my energy...on my night "off," mind you...mulling over the consequences of a series of subtle lies planted by the enemy. These lies were so consuming even for me that I was a breathe away from exerting the rest of my energy on bashing men on the ride home with my girlfriend.

The Lord stopped me in my tracks and reminded me:

HANNAH! Above all else, guard your heart, for it is the wellspring of life! I failed.

Yes, my intentions were merely to see a harmless movie for my friend's birthday, but I was instantly convicted of the consequence of what I put into my mind. I thought of the way I feel after I leave Bible Study each week...what it feels like after I compare my life to God's standard. I always leave feeling refreshed, rejuvenated, complete and full...

vs.

...the feelings above that overpowered me based on society's mindset. I left feeling heavy, burdened, weary, inadequate and empty.

It is my choice. With what am I going to fill my mind? I can dwell on the lies of society OR I can dwell on Truth and promises of God (guard my heart). My choice determines the outcome (the wellspring of life). THEN, the best thing I can do is focus on MY house. Who will I let build it? Who will I choose to watch over it?

"Unless the LORD builds the house,
its builders labor in vain.
Unless the LORD watches over the city,
the watchmen stand guard in vain. " --Psalm 127:1

He's just that into YOU!
Hannah :)

Thrifty Thursday: Spice it up for your Valentine on a DIME!

Angela posted these creative, affordable ideas two years ago and it has been one of our most popular postst to date so we figured it deserves a re-post!

*Just a little disclaimer about this post: God designed sex for married couples. I believe that is a sacred bond that should only be shared between those two people. This is to encourage you to "rev" up your sex life, in a Christ honoring way. What is shared between you and your spouse is sacred. But, let's come out of our shells a little, shall we?

Valentine's Day is just a few days away! I really wanted to spice things up this year. However, when I started shopping, I realized the things I liked were very pricey. With the state of our economy, it's hard to celebrate anything without going broke. So, I decided to do a little bargain shopping. Whatever state you live in, you have a Wal-mart. I found some FABULOUS things to spice up Valentine's day without spending too much money. In fact, you could go all out for $25 or less!
These little rose petals - $2.50. Use these to sprinkle on top of a bubble bath. Or, make a little romantic trail to the bedroom. The possibilities are endless.These are roses from WAL-MART! Most bouquets will sell for $9.99. So, if you'd rather have real rose petals, you could go this route. Also, they smell divine.So, you don't have to spend a ton of money on high priced lingerie. I found this red tie in the men's department for $6.98 and the undies are $3.98. GREAT DEAL! And, you can give the tie to your hubby...after. :) It could be an inside joke between the two of you whenever he wears it out. If you could've only seen the looks on people's faces as I was in Wal-Mart, arranging this little number on the floor, and then taking a picture. I was as red as the tie! Both of these together were $12.00! And, they look a lot like the newest Victoria's Secret line. If you're a little more into sporty, casual and comfy, this outfit is right up your alley! Only $5 each! Boost your confidence by giving yourself a good scrub! This body wash by Caress is a luxurious exfoliant. And, better yet, it's sold in "Equate" brand for almost $1.00 less! These little scrunchy loofas are in the travel section for 50 cents.Heart-shaped bath fizzies for 97 CENTS! Noxema carries a great bikini line razor. They're very small, so it's easy to get those "harder to reach" places. And for $1.97, you just can't BEAT that! Minty fresh breath is ALWAYS a good idea. Grab a bottle of SCOPE from the travel section for 50 cents and put it in your side table drawer.Betty Crocker cupcake icing. $2.98. Comes with little decorative tips. Use your imagination on this one. Candles, candles EVERYWHERE! At just $2.25 per bag, you could literally fill your home with tea light candles. And, they're in a safe little container, so you wouldn't need a candle holder.After all my shopping, I came across these. $40 for a stuffed bear with a heart. 0 points for creativity and 0 points for thriftiness! So compare all you could get for $25.00 instead of a $40.00 stuffed bear!

Have fun this Valentine's Day! But don't let it end there. I pray that God would ignite a spark in your marriages and you would truly enjoy this wonderful gift He has given you!

If you have any creative ideas, comment to us and let us know!