BE PREPARED!!
"She doesn't worry about her family when it snows, their winter clothes are all mended and ready to wear."

That good "ole moto of both Girl and Boy Scouts!!  BE PREPARED.  As I read through a book that is suppose to help me become more organized and help me to keep the house clean enough that it looks like it cleans itself?!, I am slowly minimal-izing all the stuff I've collected and the kids have outgrown.  Getting into the habits of seasonal changes such as Spring Cleaning and Winterizing the house, home and family...such a arduous task.  But well worth the efforts when all is said and done.  As I implement the ideas that this book brings out, I am amazed at how often these ideas reflect the Proverbs 31 woman!.  There are places in this "cleaning itself house" for give away items, cleaning stations for quick pickups, every area has its deep cleaning tools handy, so many "prepared for anything" stops along the way that blend into the overall view of the house. And once implemented this is going to make my overall housecleaning faster, easier and better cleaned all the time!  Still working on finishing the book as of yet, but I do intend over the summer to put this into action and train up my girls in the same method as I believe it will be best for us all around!.  I know that this concept of a virtuous woman is truly what I want to reflect to my family, friends and be a blessing to all I come across, but mostly, I want to reflect my gratitude, praise and worship toward my God who loves me beyond all comparison and has provided me this example and those family and  friends who I can hold up as strong examples which I can emulate in my life.

"Her husband trusts her without reserve, and never has reason to regret it."

I am a fortunate woman to have the unfailing trust of my husband.  We have had differences in many ways, but I don't know of a time where he couldn't trust me to make a sound decision on anything.  And that really does go both ways.  I know I can trust him to do his best and take care of a matter at hand in the best way possible.I may argue over the time it takes to make that decision or the road he goes on to do it, but at the end, it's what was best.  That starts with our trust in God and knowing that He will lead us where we are suppose to be.  Several years ago, we had an opportunity to move from where we are to another part of the state because of the promise of better employment.  This meant that for several months, I would be here and he would work up north and come home or we would visit on the weekends.  I gave up my job, got the house all ready (by myself) for any buyers, diligently worked on paying the bills with what was sent home, and packed all that could be packed for moving.  I don't think I went to bed one night without being exhausted for two months straight as I got this all accomplished for prospective buyers.  My husband trusted me to make every financial decision for this and of course I spoke with him on several points, but what a crazy season that was! In addition to this, my eldest daughter was working on moving in with her dad as the schools where we were going weren't set up well for advanced placement classes.  Yes, I have a genius for a child and it amazes me everyday how much more she has lurking up in her brain than I could even begin to comprehend!!  So...in the middle of the worst blizzard in a decade we leave for her dad's having packed her entire room into my suburban and as I navigate the ruts on I-75 north to whiteout city, she sleeps!!  OMGoodness was that ever scary!  Everyone trusted my choices for my kids and only God and I knew how scared and worried I was over all of them at this time.  Turns out that my girl didn't stay with her dad as he and his wife were experiencing a nasty turn in their marriage and two weeks later, I was again packing up my girl and her gear to come home...this time without the added blizzard!  I think that was a big turning point in the level of trust my family afforded me and I'm glad that I earned it, but don't want that trial again...EVER!

God puts that same kind of trust in you and your spouse when you marry. He trusts you with each other and as long as you focus your trust in Him when making decisions for your lives and those of your children, you won't ever regret it!!  

God considers us CLASSY LADIES!!!

"Many women have done wonderful things, but you've outclassed them all!"

Think of the top five women in this world that you admire...and why....and then remember this verse...God thinks you OUTCLASSED them all!!...WOW...that's some pretty high standards!!  But the woman who really puts forth the effort to be a virtuous woman in all areas of her life has been notoriously CLASSY!!  She's a skilled woman and business savy.  She knows a great bargain, can do all the things she asks of her servants and more, then is ubber respective of her husband who in turn is ooooobbbber respective of her!  She knows what's happening in all her family's lives, is turned to for advice and wisdom (and gives the best advice).  She eagerly helps those in need.  Not a  worry or fear does she have because she has prepared for any and all eventuality.  I tell you what..WOW...and God does this through us for our families!!  God considers us CLASSY WOMEN and above the worth of diamonds!!  I just am in awe that He thinks so highly of ME and YOU and YOU and......all women.  Now....as long as I do all that I can to do my best for HIM and my family....there's no way I can fail....because I've done it with love, kindness and as my gift of praise and worship to HIM!!

The BEST shopper around!!

"She shops around for the best yarns and cottons, and enjoys knitting and sewing".

I grew up in a house FILLED with women.  I lived with five sisters, my mom and my great aunt. And then there was dad....poor guy....or was he?!!  Because we were a large family and had to be careful with our spending, we learned how to catch a great bargain and to do somethings for ourselves (sew and such) if we couldn't buy it or if we wanted something a bit different.  Dad was "crafty", too!  He made all kinds of things for around the house and really wanted the best for "his girls".  I never remember feeling as if we were poor or under priveledged, even though I'm sure at times the budget was stretched out farther than it could really handle. We gardened and canned, shared and hand-me-downed, had grandma cut our hair on occasion, learned how to make our own music and studied hard for the degrees we earned in college.   After dad died, I'm sure mom felt all kinds of pressure to be able to provide for all of us....she took over the business my dad had begun, put all six of us through our bachelor's degrees and bought our first cars for us...and sooooo much more!  She loved to sew and even now with fading eye sight and few things that keep her interest, she helps all of us with little projects.  She taught us all how to be that honoring wife, mother, business woman and faithful worshiper of Christ.  She did these things from love for her God, husband and children and was never formally taught many of these skills.  Many people ask of those who are handling big loads (wether it's a big family, health issues, single parenting..) how?  I used to say, I have to, so I do...now I realize it's because God has blessed me with what I need to make it to the next step, minute, hour, day....and so on.
I have a great friend who is the biggest bargain shopper I have EVER met!  I don't think she paid full price on ANYTHING unless absolutely necessary!  She wisely looks at all the bargains that week, plans her list and travel locations and then...watch out!...she may give you a sometimes gift!!  Those are the BEST!  She was also one of the foster parents in our county that helped foster over 125 kids over the many years she and her husband parented them.  She knew how to create meals from very little, pull a room together for an emergency placement in minutes and still assists a few of these blessings today in their everyday lives!.   Using all your abilities to their best advantage and then finding methods by which to access other skills is her best skill!!  Networking with her on different agencies that can provide you some assistance is tremendous!!  I'll touch more on this skill later in the blog.
Mom used all these principles we see highlighted in these 21 verses...and really wasn't "trying" to be this person...this "super-mom".  But because she trusted in God and had her faith in Him...she was and still is a my SUPER WOMAN.

Beauty and Charm
"Charm can mislead and beauty soon fades.  The woman to be admired and praised is the woman who lives in the fear of God."

Wow!!  Beauty and Charm can mislead and fade.....so all the time I spend trying to stay ahead of the wrinkles and looking my best won't do me much in the end.....That's because....if you think of it.....beauty comes from the inside...the makeup and other things only enhance the truly beautiful spirit that God gave us from the very beginning!  My husband always said he liked how I looked better without makeup than with and most the time, when I wear makeup, it's for myself...makes me feel a bit better and more confident, but those attributes aren't something that you can "put on".  I just "feel" a bit more "put together".  I'm no less of a person or less precious to God and my family because of what I put on my face.  And taking care of yourself, being healthy and fit, isn't  necessarily for the glances others give you, but it is to keep you in healthy condition for the things you do on a daily basis.
I have a great and dear friend who is a fitness instructor, a black belt in martial arts, a single mom, painter, artist and so much more.  The reason she chooses to be a fitness instructor is because it allows her body to keep moving in order to be able to do the physical things she loves.  Without it, her arthritis would be so severe that she wouldn't be able to do anything...Keeping in motion allows her to stay in motion.  She's absolutely gorgeous, sweet and kind, has a HUGE heart for God and two adorable and loving girls.  Never likes wearing makeup and says that whatever wrinkles, gray hair and other "aging" she's showing just show that's shes worth every one of them!! Now don't think I'm bashing all those glamour girls....heck, I sell Mary Kay!  But I want you to realize that the makeup and skinny figures and all the "girly glam" isn't what creates you into an admired person, it's what comes from your heart, the love of God that bursts forth from you that others will seek out and admire of you.

Make it count and do it with kindness.

"When she speaks she has something worthwhile to say, and she always says it kindly." Proverbs 31 v. 26

While I can be a bit of a social gabber, I do try not to gossip or talk just to have something to say.  Jumping into the middle of conversations is sometimes a habit I have and then I get myself into trouble.  I've been working on "keeping my opinions to myself and my mouth shut" until invited into the conversation or I have something worthwhile to speak about.  That's not to say I won't talk to anyone at all, but even with my girls...in terms of giving direction to what they are doing or in discipline...I try to carefully choose my words and not just yell.  It's a bit tricky and I'm still learning different tactics for each child, but I am getting a bit better and each time I rely on God to direct my words and actions, things get better.  Even fools who keep their mouths shut seem wise.  That's somewhere in the early part of proverbs, and right now I can't locate it, but it's there and sound advice at that.  Not only does she speak with kindness and with forethought, but really, with her schedule...she doesn't have time to spread gossip or even listen to it from others.  My goal today...no gossiping, only well thought out conversation and kindness in every word! 

Pay Attention!!!

This comes from a different chapter of Proverbs, but it is sooooo important that we understand what is being said here.  Proverbs. 23 verse 26  "Dear Child, I want your full attention, please do what I show you."

Many of us think that we know what we need to do, do it, and it doesn't turn out right.  For instance...Making bread for my youngest to assist her in her dietary needs, I purchased all the ingredients except 1 and chose to use a little extra of another to compensate.  Two things...I was once married to a pastry chef, so I thought I already knew the most important steps to making bread and would just "wing it" with what I thought would work otherwise.  Mind you I did ask said ex for a substitute and he didn't get back with me before I started making this bread as he was working.  I made it...it tasted great...the kids and hubby and I ate and enjoyed it...but it came out like a brick.  I did add the yeast and let it rise, but I didn't COMPLETELY follow the directions so my bread wasn't the best it could/should have been.
God wants our FULL ATTENTION!!  He know's we aren't perfect, but when we follow HIS directions, we are so much better off than we could have been had we not listened.  Our frustrations (many times) can be brought down to whether or not we were listening in the beginning so that the end result would be right/good/best.
The Virtuous Woman of Proverbs 31 chooses to listen, plan and organize and then carry out the directions that God gives her each day.  I know that sounds all high and mighty, but the directions come from the HIGH AND MIGHTY GOD!!  I think I'll be listening more closely from now on...how 'bout you?

She Takes Care of Herself!

No one verse in this description says that the Virtuous Woman exercises or does anything specific to make sure she's in good health and at her best, but with all that she does and believes, we have to understand that this cannot be accomplished without being in good physical, mental and emotional health.  Sooooo..last night, up late munching on whatever I could get my little fingers and hands around as I just sat watching a movie till 11:30.  Some good example, eh?  I didn't work on my crocheting projects, didn't put my to do list together, didn't eat anything particularly healthy for me and just sat glued to the tube.  Lord...help me to work on being the best person I can be for YOU so that I can promote the vision you have given to me and do YOUR work through this vision!!!  Remind me (with a 2x4 if necessary) that I am a temple build for YOU and not to destroy  YOUR temple with my bad habits!!!!

THANK GOD FOR HUSBANDS
 Proverbs 31 verse 12
"Never spiteful, she treats him generously all her life long."

This can be a tough one.  God wants us to love one another...treat each other with kindness and respect.  In verse 11 we hear that the husband trusts her without reserve and never has reason to regret it.
These ideals are much easier when you are both equally yoked in your faith and life, but that isn't always the case.
Each person receives and gives love a bit differently.  Some like to to everyday things to show that they care for the other ( a clean house, a hot dinner on the table when hubby arrives home from work, squabbling kids no longer squabbling, etc....)  Others bear gifts of all kinds, some feel that the physical side of affection is what really speaks to others....so many ways!  Not everyone speaks their love in the same manner.  It's like going to a restaurant where all they do is speak Spanish and you don't understand the language...but you get your requests met in other ways of communication...looking and pointing at the menu or someone else's dish that you want to try.  My husband and I really have to work at this particular part of our marriage because we don't speak well in the others "native tongue".  Even after 12 years, we are only just beginning to understand what makes the other feel "loved".  I always try to stay away from "man bashing" and that is not easily accomplished in today's world.  We both work hard not to "bash" each other at all, but also never in front of the kids...that's just bad teaching tools.
My husband over the past few years has trusted me to take care of the bills...he puts his pay check in the mail and then I disperse it to the appropriate collector.  He doesn't always like how I keep the check book, but he trusts me to maintain it accurately and every so often we discuss any minor discrepancies. Money is the most difficult thing for anyone to trust another with....
Today...try not to "bash" your husband. Thank God to day for your husband....tell others today of the wonderful things he has done with and for you and your family.  Give the respect and trust that a virtuous woman would provide to him....and see the improvement in your day, week, month and your marriage just BLOOM!!

The Martha Stewart of her day
"She's up before dawn, preparing breakfast for her family and organizing her day."

I LOVE being organized...things just flow so much easier that way...but I HATE GETTING organized...at least until recent years when I really didn't have a choice!  With children, everything MUST be more organized or you make yourself nuts!!  I learned a few tricks over the years and they've really paid off when it came to remaining even remotely sane.  First..a daily to do list....never leave the breakfast table without the priorities of the day in writing on something I can carry with me as a reminder...Loads of different ways to do this...better to do the night before and check your monthly calendar for what's going on that you need to work into your day.  Second...my saving grace.....an organized tote bag.  In it I carry my list, my purse, my daughters needs, whatever crochet project I'm working on that can be worked on while waiting wherever, my phone, drink...you get the idea....And last...if your children see that you're using these skills, it's more likely that they will in the future!  My oldest texted me the other day when I asked if she might want to have a movie night that she had to reorganized the house she has been renting as it was really just thrown apart from the owner having moved out!!  YEAH...my example created an organized young lady!  Not only that, but she also has been in complete charge of her college educational communications with financial aide and class scheduling...everything...I'm so blessed that she can and is willing to do these things for herself!!  Organization has one really wonderful blessing in itself....It helps you prioritize your time so that you can fit in your time with God, yourself and your family!  It helps you know that God is with you when you start your day with Him and that you'll be able to get done all you need to...because you put this one little skill into practice. And when storms come up...you know you'll be able to handle it all!!! With God at your side you can't loose!!!

HARD WORK PAYS OFF!!  

She senses the worth of her work, is in no hurry to call it quits for the day. She's skilled in the crafts of home and hearth, diligent in homemaking. verses18-19 of Proverbs. 

All my growing up years, my mom really exemplified this woman in Proverbs.  She LOVED dad and did an utterly awesome job in caring for her six daughters.The house is always immaculate and even now, as she lives alone, she still takes the best care of herself she can, her home speaks of her loving care and her daughters have nothing but praise and admiration for her. Hard example to follow, but God says I AM PRICELESS and HIS CREATION and one that can live an ABUNDANT LIFE all my life. So, am I there yet?!  NOPE!  But still working hard to really implement all these things into my life and instill these disciplines into my daughters lives.  I think I've succeeded a little.  My eldest a few years back surprised me one morning....On the wall of the upstairs hallway and going down toward the main floor were sticky notes with various little sayings of love and warmth from her to me on them.  WOW!!  that was wonderful to read and I have them tucked into my planner that I carry with me daily just as a little reminder that I did pretty well with her so far.  She's now 24yrs old, but man that really boosts me up each time I read them over again.  You're saying to yourself right now...yeah..when you have a great example to follow...that's not so hard.  What about those who DON'T have that great example, who were never taught all these skills and can't begin to get a grip on what a Woman of Diamonds is?  THATS LOADED..isn't it!  In some of my discussions with my study group this very question came up...and many suggested that in our times, many people have made a living as being organizers, writing books about cooking, child rearing and relationship builing, house cleaning and so many other topics. There really isn't any excuse to say I don't know how anymore. Your local library is a fantastic resource...more importantly, your church body is a wealth of experience and knowledge about many of these topics...It takes dedication.  Like ANY relationship with anyone, there is work involved.  Don't call it quits if you don't know what you want to/ need to know to accomplish something.....be dilligent, be in no hurry to call it quits....Pray, follow and act upon the leading's of God.  Some references for you that I've been using and learning from in regards to typical organizational methods for any home, for nutritional guides (there are sooooo many on the internet) and of course...your bible as a source of inspiration, guidance and reference. Check into your county extention office.  My county is affiliated with Michigan State University and has an Extention Office here that is phenominal!!  Find out what your county has for resources in this area.  Also..the schools, especially the pre-school programs will have connections with such resources to assist in helping the community with nutrition and farming and other efforts of improving the overall lifespan of your community.   

The House that Cleans Itself...by Mindy Starns Clark.  Martha Stewart's Homekeeping Handbook.  and Good Things for Organizing by Martha Stewart.

If you're not certain you want to outright purchase a book, then check it out from your local library first...if you really like it, then check on many online book sellers pages for a used copy that would suit your needs!!!

The only real reason a woman cannot be a Woman of Diamonds is that she doesn't really want to be. It does take work, but anything worthwhile means that there is need for effort and desire to reach the goal that is set before you.    

In another translation I'm comparing verse 25 states "She is strong and respected and not afraid of the future."
Many of us are afraid of the future...the economy isn't very stable, jobs are at a premium for those who are looking, (which include many people I know) and the leadership, as usual, is contradicting itself and posturing all over the place, but it's hard to see just what is REALLY happening and what we can be sure about in order to move forward.
...she is not afraid of the future..."!!!  God has us covered!!  We areCAPABLE AND STRONG WOMEN of God and He considers us PRICELESS!!  He will always protect us and we will always serve our Lord and Savior!  In the end, isn't that what is most important?!!  I've been living a rather uncertain financial life for many years as my husband's income has greatly fluctuated with the economy.  He is employed, by himself, but his services are something that are reconsidered when the economy isn't strong.  We lived on food stamps, our children have been covered by Medicaid insurance, and we've had medical emergencies that have put both of us into Medicaid coverage too.  Other financial crunches have been part of our everyday life and we've gotten through them because God has looked over us from the beginning!!  I know that I'm looked at with respect from others because of our diligence in following God's leading in all of it! We've been blessed by our church family in many ways and I am always looking for fun little ways to help return the favor when I can.  Even the smallest of help is Greatly appreciated and remembered and respected.   Today...BE STRONG!  BE NOT AFRAID, for GOD is WITH YOU!!

She's like a trading ship that sails to faraway places and bring back exotic surprises.
I love to try new things and seek out different ways of accomplishing things...always trying a new way to arrange something or going to a new place to learn or see an unknown or rare item.  I think that's why I like Antiques Roadshow...something different, rare, unique...exotic.
Having a husband with diabetes and a child with small intestinal troubles keeps me on my toes trying different or healthier foods that we don't commonly have in our diet.  Switching to Whole Grain items and handmaking our bread or other foods that you could easily buy, makes life a bit more interesting and the kids aren't always willing or open to trying something a bit out of the ordinary..The rule is..try it and if you really don't like it that's ok...but refusing before trying it is not acceptable.
Is this how we react to what God shows us?  I mean...we receive an impression to do something or act a certain way and if it's not in the norm....we back away or reject it?  How will we learn?  What kind of person would we become if we rejected anything out of the ordinary!  Jesus was certainly OUT OF THE ORDINARY!!  He WAS rejected by many, but in order to receive heaven, we must receive HIM!  Try something exotic, new, unique, and unusual today with your family...you just might be receiving a bit more of HIM in the bargain!!!!

I've been comparing a few different versions of this passage and find that in verse 25 of Proverbs 31 the KJV translation really sums up more what I'd like to put forth.  "Strength and Honor are her clothing and she shall rejoice in time to come".  With all that we do, we don't always feel strong or even honorable...we do many if not all the dirty, nasty, mundane jobs around our homes and are really viewed more as a servant most days...and we are...of God and of our family.  I like to think that I'm viewed by my family as Batman views his servant Alfred...Strong, smart, always able to get him out of a jam and yet very subtle about what he does. Still looks great and is never "flustered" by what is coming at him or what is needed to get Batman out of his jams. (seeing as Batman is my husbands favorite superhero,  Thank God I don't have to try to mend the costume, or even find one big enough for him...THAT would be a trick or two I don't think I could ever pull off!!) The Perfect Servant....as we are to strive for with God.  And never a wrinkle or spot on his tux....(haven't mastered this as of yet, but God is always smiling on every effort and my family sure thinks of me as one of the best!!)  Thanks to God for all my family and fellow "Women of Diamonds"  Keep up the great work!!

This morning, being a Monday, the verses that struck me most were those stating
"She's up before dawn, preparing breakfast for her family and organizing her day. She looks over a field and buys it, then, with money she's put aside, plants a garden.  First thing int he morning, she dresses for work, rolls up her sleeves, eager to get started."   Now, for most of us...we work outside the home and these verses, although not always welcome activities, are what we do regularly.....but God put them in a different light this morning...besides the glaring and welcome warmth of the sun!..  Even if you're a mom that's not working outside the home or has a "job" elsewhere, we get dressed for our "work", we have plenty to do and it's all for the benefit of our family!  Do it with joy and eagerness and not only will your family reap the benefits, but the Father will know your heart in this and it will bring Him joy overflowing!!

As I continue to re-read this wonderful passage about the woman I strive to be, I realize it's like a to do list of her abilities and talent, virtues and wisdom....funny as I was just making out a list of the things I need to do for the next day....I look at it and realize that I hit all the major talents and skills she is described as having!  God is sooo amazing at how He shows us who we are and how wonderously He has made us!!  She is an amazing woman ....and He is describing ME!!  Wonderful...I don't always feel like this and that's when I turn to Proverbs and re-read her...reorganize my thoughts like a cleaning spree in a messy house and realize...I AM WORTH MORE THAN DIAMONDS!!!!  Thank you Lord for your constant love of all of us!!!

She keeps an eye on everyone in her household and keeps them all busy and productive.  Her children respect and bless her, her husband joins in with words of praise. Proverbs 31

May all the mothers who read this have this blessing on them this Mother's Day and always!
As I read this today, I thought...my best teacher and guide was always mom, but my own children do not really like to do the many things I do around the house and for them.  I struggle to guide them into ways of organization and tidiness about their own belongings...and of course my hubby is almost as bad.  However, I always have kisses and hugs and "I Love You, Mom" from them each night and my husband says the same. I only hope one day I will see that some of my household efforts have rubbed off onto them!!!

This morning as I was reading I found something else that really caught my attention in a different light.  Proverbs 31 " she makes her own clothing, and dresses in colorful linens and silks"
Now , in this day and age most people don't make their own clothes, but we do set our own fashion sense.  We present an image in everything we do...what we wear, how we wear it, what does what we wear say about us.   As women of God we have to be sure that what we are presenting is what God wants us to say, be, do and show.  Be sure of how you dress today so that you are telling and speaking to others what God wants us to say.

Well, here I am starting out on a HUGE journey with the Lord, following a vision He has given me.  It's to study the Proverbs 31 description of women.
The first few verses have a lot of meaning to them from my perspective and I would love any and all viewpoints others may have for this study.
The first verse, for me is really jammed packed with emotion as I haven't always felt like I was really worth the cost of A diamond let alone more than ALL diamonds. It says "her worth is far more than diamonds"
WOW...God sees me as His JEWEL!!! HIS Treasure, His Precious Creation!