Tag Archives: encouragement

Three Keys to Getting Unexpected Help Around the Home

Posted on by

He doesn’t like doing the dishes. He isn’t one of those got-it-together guys standing ready to fire up the grill for a family outing. Help around the house does not mean in the kitchen. That area is almost foreign to him—unless he hears his name called for mealtime.

Imagine my surprise today when my husband came into the kitchen unannounced and begin scraping leftovers from a large bowl into a small one. Then, after finding lids to fit each one, he put them into the refrigerator. I glanced at him and smiled, and turned quickly back to my dish washing lest I somehow stop this miracle in progress.

“I don’t know if I’m doing this right,” he said almost apologetically.

“I’m sure it’s perfect. Thanks.”

We finished our work and took a second cup of coffee to the deck to cool off and rest a bit.

“You will never know how very much it meant to me for you to make time to help me today. Just putting the food away was an encouragement. Besides that, I really enjoyed your company. Thanks again.”

It seems as the years pass, we have become more sensitive to each other’s needs and try to be helpful when possible. That’s a given for most families. Today he taught me by example a lesson I think we all could benefit from.

When offering your help, do not simply pick the things you enjoy and ignore the rest. For my husband, helping clean the kitchen ranks down at the bottom of his list—way down. Not only that, I know he had work of his own to complete in the other room; he wasn’t in the kitchen with me because he was bored.

Here is what I believe are three keys to (eventually) getting help around the home:

  1. When help is offered, take it as it comes. I will never tell my husband he covered my dish of scraps and refrigerated them! Neither will I spend time wishing he had done things a different way; my way is not always the right way. (Incidentally, that has been a really difficult lesson to learn for me. How about you?)
  2. Do not drag people kicking and screaming to help you. Ask politely for help when needed. If refused or ignored, make the best of it. Each year my husband seems to be more comfortable helping with the kitchen, laundry, or cleaning. I think asking him to do small things periodically for me in those areas has helped him feel more comfortable and equipped to help more. A man (or woman for that matter) does not feel secure trying to help in unfamiliar territory.
  3. Do not spend your time complaining about not having help. Be thankful for the abilities and resources God has provided for you and try to enjoy even the most menial daily tasks. Be thankful you have someone to share with and let them know they are more important that what they will or will not do.

A verse in the third chapter of Colossians comes to mind about now that seems to sum this all up:

“And whatsoever you do, do it heartily as unto the Lord, and not unto men.”

May your lives be enriched by those in your home and those you care for as you continue to bless others along the way.

Hugs,

Have you checked out my new page, Articles for Caregivers? There are some meaningful articles there for everyone. And sign up for the newsletter (pretty purple box on right.)

Family Caregivers You or Someone You Know

Posted on by

Often when the word caregiver is mentioned, we think of the elderly. This is especially true when referring to family caregivers. I found the following statistics enlightening:

According to a recent study by the American Association of Retired Persons (AARP) and the National Council on Aging (NCA):

• One in three adult caregivers is also raising a child under the age of 18.
• Someone caring for a parent has been doing so for an average of 20 hours a week for four years.
• One in three adult caregivers is helping their family member get dressed or go to the bathroom.
• Nearly two-thirds of adult caregivers take time off during the workday, while 17 percent take a formal leave of absence and 10 percent take early retirement.
• About 70 percent of adult caregivers get help from family members, friends, or neighbors.
• About 40 percent rely on help from paid caregivers.
• Someone caring for a spouse spends more than 30 hours a week directly caring for their loved one and is less likely to get help from relatives or friends.

Are you caring for someone in your home, or in theirs? If not, you probably know someone who is. Have you considered how you might be of help to them?

We know the most important thing we can give them is our prayers support and our unconditional love. Often a quick visit and a hug will help a weary soul make it through one more day.

I want to encourage you if you are a family caregiver; you are not alone. You are doing one of the most important jobs there is, caring for those who cannot care for themselves.
I pray you will be surrounded with friends and loved ones who care for you. Also, I hope you will take advantage of helps on my website and other caregiving websites.

If you or someone you know needs an extra lift, I recommend Psalm 23 for Caregivers as a great book to have on hand. There is nothing more refreshing than a look at God’s Word and the realization that He walks with us and loves us as no one else can.

Hugs,

Help and encouragement is also found in MY MOTHER MY CHILD in the store.

Encouragement from Sun Snow and a Bowl of Soup

Posted on by

             The sun seemed to shine brighter than ever as we made our way to town Tuesday. Dry brown fields had given way to vibrant green grasses and wildflowers. Tiny birds and squirrels were announcing spring to cattle caring for their babies on the hillsides.

            Wednesday, a few gals popped in to help me weed our flowerbeds and mow grass. I’m thankful for friends who give of their time to come to our aid. Work, weather, and just plain weariness has taken it’s toll this year on us “older” folk.

            It is now Thursday as I write this letter. It has been cold all day, windy and rainy. We brought some plants inside and covered some as the temperatures plunged throughout the day. It’s barely above freezing now and the forecast is for snow later tonight into the morning. SNOW! Mercy! A daughter-in-law from Joplin called to say it was raining steadily there right now and looks to be turning into sleet.

            Let us review: Tuesday near 80, Wednesday work in yard, Thursday find snow shovel! Missouri – gotta love it!

            I put on a big pot of stew early this morning and prepared to stay in until warm weather. The only way I know to share a bowl with you is to send the recipe. It’s quick, easy, and yummy on the tummy!

Quick and Easy Stew

1 large boneless round steak (1” squares)
2 cups potatoes (cut in 1”squares)
2 cups carrots (sliced thick)
1 cup onions (sliced)
2 cups green beans (I use fresh frozen)
1 can tomato soup
1 can cream mushroom soup
1 can celery soup
3 cans water

              Brown meat, mix all ingredients in large pan and cook on low about three hours. You can substitute chicken breast for steak or lean ground beef and add your favorite vegetables. Variations are endless.

             Changing weather simply reminds us spring and summer are upon us. Farmer’s markets are already filled with fresh fruits and vegetables with more to come.  Be prepared to  enjoy new healthier foods for yourself and those in your care.  Click here for more information. You will learn how to create your shopping list, prepare foods for storage, and dozens of helpful hints as well as great, easy to prepare recipes that will save you time and dollars.

           Trusting you and those you care for will enjoy God’s creation in all it’s beauty. Have a great week.

Hugs,