Testimony Tuesday

We have been blessed to see yet another day, praise be to God! As most of you all know, today is Testimony Tuesday! Starting today and moving forward, I would like to change the format for Testimony Tuesday. I am requesting that each of you share a personal testimony as the spirit moves you. Feel free to share your testimony in the comments box below this post. It is my prayer that it will be a blessing to many.

Be sure to tune in tomorrow for more words of encouragement and inspiration for M.O.M.’s near and far! Please share this blog with as many people as you know (www.savedmom.com), we have so many lives to touch. Feel free to post a comment and/or subscribe (if you are reading this from your inbox visit the site address referenced above to post a comment).

Mommie Blessings,

Shonte’ Press

Show Love Now

In wake of recent celebrity deaths and recent death in my husband’s family, I want to stress the importance of showing love now. We must take this opportunity to show love and appreciation to those that are near and dear to us while we can. Tomorrow is not promised to any of us, but one thing is certain, our time here on earth doesn’t last forever. “Man born of woman is of few days and full of trouble. He springs up like a flower and withers away; like a fleeting shadow, he does not endure.” (Job 14:1-2).

I find myself thinking about the moments I chose to spend time with my loved ones instead of doing the “things” that I thought I really needed to do, that didn’t involve my loved ones. When I reflect on these moments, I have no regrets at all. It’s so often that we get caught up in the hustle and bustle of work, errands, appointments, and arrangements. Although, when you consider the “big picture,” is it really necessary that we stress ourselves out with unnecessary busyness? Consider the side effects of it all; it only leads to missed opportunities with loved ones, tiredness, and the stress can manifest into disease.

I am not saying that we don’t need to handle our business, but what I am saying is that we should be sure to have a good balance and spend time with those that we love and not get caught up in being busy. We must also remember to make sure that the time with those that we love is quality time, not just moments of physical closeness lacking in emotional connectivity. We need to show our children the importance of loving each other now, while we can so we don’t raise another generation that’s too busy to make necessary connections. Remember, they are the ones that we are raising to make a brighter day by leading exemplary lives. This reminds me of a song from my distant past, “We are the world, we are the children, we are the ones who make a brighter day, so let’s start giving.”

Be sure to tune in tomorrow for more words of encouragement and inspiration for M.O.M.’s near and far! Please share this blog with as many people as you know (www.savedmom.com), we have so many lives to touch. Feel free to post a comment and/or subscribe (if you are reading this from your inbox visit the site address referenced above to post a comment).

Mommie Blessings,

Shonte’ Press

Feature Friday

Good Day to all of the Saved M.O.M.’s out there! Today is Feature Friday, as you all know. Once again I am led to do things a little differently in this entry. I would like to take a moment to feature a Saved DAD today. The Saved DAD that I am featuring is my loving husband, Mr. Jason Press! Normally, in a feature entry I would talk about a person’s walk with the Lord, their call to salvation, and what being a saved parent means to them, but I am not following that format today. I want to take time to give my husband the recognition that he deserves.

It is vitally important to be in covenant with a supportive spouse as we walk through the roads of life and parenthood. If it were not for Jason’s humbleness, patience, understanding, and support I wouldn’t be able to do all that I do. He is so very supportive in all of my endeavors, especially when it comes to the Saved M.O.M. ministry. I find so often that men have problems with their wives being in positions of leadership and try to stifle their growth and development in those areas. In my situation, it’s the complete opposite. Jason is so real with me and often serves as an adviser to a lot of what goes on behind the scenes of my ministry. He helps me to grow and develop into who God has called me to be and what He has called me to do.

It is also important that we have wise counsel, especially when it comes to the business of God’s Kingdom. For the word tells us, “Listen to advice and accept instruction, and in the end you will be wise.” (Proverbs 19:20). Jason has given me great advice and instruction and has an uncanny level of patience with me. He allows the Lord to use him in such a way that helps me produce good fruit. He is like my sunshine and water all wrapped into one and we are both planted in the soil of the Lord.

I mustn’t overshadow the fact that he is also an AWESOME and AMAZING father. He leads our son down the path of righteousness and fathers him with a love that could only come from above. There are so many young men that don’t have the opportunity to see good Godly examples of what God intended for them to be. So I thank God for giving us Jason to exemplify his love and serve as our covering. Thank you darling for your patience, your loving nature, your support, and for being everything we need and more!

Be sure to tune in Monday for more words of encouragement and inspiration for M.O.M.’s near and far! Please share this blog with as many people as you know (www.savedmom.com), we have so many lives to touch. Feel free to post a comment and/or subscribe (if you are reading this from your inbox visit the site address referenced above to post a comment).

Mommie Blessings,

Shonte’ Press

Multi-Tasking

Is it just me or are mothers the best multi-taskers in the world? It’s so incredible when you consider just how much a mother does on a daily basis. I truly believe that the Lord uniquely designed us to get many tasks accomplished with time and energy to spare.

I was just sitting here a moment ago thinking about all that I have accomplished this week. I must say that I immediately got tired just thinking about it. Then, I consider the task of a single mother. As many of you all know, for many years, my mother was a single mom. Now, being a mother myself, I think back on that time period in pure amazement and awe. How did she do it with energy to spare and with her sanity in tact? It had to be by the strength and peace of the Lord. The LORD gives strength to his people; the LORD blesses his people with peace.” (Psalm 29:11). I have to take this time to give a standing ovation to the single mothers out there. I really did just stand and clap for you precious queens! Seriously ladies, you deserve so much respect and reverence for all that you do on a daily basis.

The Lord gives us strength and energy to achieve all of the things that he wants us to achieve. We all get tired, but let’s not get weary in the midst of it all. “And let us not be weary in well doing: for in due season we shall reap, if we faint not.” (Galatians 6:9). I am totally preaching to myself today! In addition to seeking the Lord for strength we must also use wisdom. We need to get adequate rest (7+ hrs/night), exercise, eat healthy and take the right multivitamins. In addition to feeling better on a daily basis, you will also reduce your risks for suffering with many diseases and be less likely to become obese. To all my Saved M.O.M.’s, go ahead and flap your superwoman cape, you deserve it!

Be sure to tune in tomorrow for more words of encouragement and inspiration for M.O.M.’s near and far! Please share this blog with as many people as you know (www.savedmom.com), we have so many lives to touch. Feel free to post a comment and/or subscribe (if you are reading this from your inbox visit the site address referenced above to post a comment).

Mommie Blessings,

Shonte’ Press

Word Wednesday

Today is officially “Word Wednesday” otherwise known as “Hump Day.” We’ve made it half way through yet another week on the wonderful, exciting and bumpy road of motherhood. Therefore, some of us are looking for some encouraging words to make it through the rest of the week with Joy and Peace. Every night before my son goes to bed, in addition to reading bible stories, I read him a passage out of “Prayers That Avail Much, First Blessings for Your Child” by Germaine Copeland. Mommies we have to keep our children prayed up and constantly put Gods word in their hearts.

Yesterday’s passage read, “I thank the Lord that you will have no veil over your face; you can be a mirror that brightly reflects the glory of the Lord. As the Spirit of the Lord works within you, you will become more and more like Him.” After reading this passage I thought to myself, “Wow, this is one of my favorite passages thus far!” I would love so very much for my son to be a “mirror that brightly reflects the glory of Lord.” I like the fact that the author chose to use the terminology, “brightly reflects” instead of just saying “reflects.” This passage really spoke to me because I truly want to brightly reflect God’s glory wherever I go.

In our daily walk, we should ALWAYS live every moment as though our mirror is posted up for everyone to see. In doing so, we need to be sure that our reflection is as bright as possible. I want my light to shine every time I walk into a room! As mothers, if we raise strong men and women with bright reflections of God’s glory, just imagine how beautiful and amazing this world can one day be. Please take a few moments to reflect on the words written on this page. As the great apostle Paul wrote, “Reflect on what I am saying, for the Lord will give you insight into all this.” (2 Timothy 2:7). Go ahead and light their candles today!

Be sure to tune in tomorrow for more words of encouragement and inspiration for M.O.M.’s near and far! Please share this blog with as many people as you know (www.savedmom.com), we have so many lives to touch. Feel free to post a comment and/or subscribe (if you are reading this from your inbox visit the site address referenced above to post a comment).

Mommie Blessings,

Shonte’ Press

Fatherly Love

Earlier this morning I was reflecting on Father’s Day and thought about all of the fathers out there that have not received salvation. Just imagine how different our world would be if more fathers stepped up to the plate concerning their spirituality. As mothers, there are some things that we can do to help lead and guide them to salvation. It is so important that our sons and daughters see fathers that are truly living for God.

About a year ago I had a conversation with a close friend about the things that she did to turn her husband’s heart towards God. They were not saved when they got married, but she received salvation a few years later and want her husband to receive salvation as well. It amazed me when she explained the things that she did to encourage him to give his life to the Lord. She really took time out to make his salvation top priority. She told me that she constantly prayed and interceded on his behalf. Just to give you a couple of examples of other things that she did; she placed handkerchiefs that had been anointed under his pillow and under the driver seat in his car and she modeled Godly behavior around him at all times. I have known her husband for several years now and I always admired his spiritual walk. I never for one moment thought that he wasn’t saved before they met.

I wanted to give you all a tangible example of what “standing in the gap” for our men can do and how much of a difference it can make. We should pray for them and deal with them in love, not force God or church on them. If they see us truly living a surrendered life on a daily basis and always dealing with them in love (even when we don’t want to) it can make all the difference. We should look beyond their present faults and sins and show them love anyway. Above all, love each other deeply, because love covers over a multitude of sins. (1 Peter 4:8). Also, consider that if our children see us dealing with their fathers in this way they too will deal with others in love. They will also have a great example of how they should one day maintain Godly relationships with their mates.

Be sure to tune in tomorrow for more words of encouragement and inspiration for M.O.M.’s near and far! Please share this blog with as many people as you know (www.savedmom.com), we have so many lives to touch. Feel free to post a comment and/or subscribe (if you are reading this from your inbox visit the site address referenced above to post a comment).

Mommie Blessings,

Shonte’ Press

Feature Friday

Congratulations, you made it through another week in the life of a Saved M.O.M.! Here at savedmom.com we take time out on Fridays to feature Saved M.O.M.’s . There are so many wonderful mothers that don’t get the recognition they deserve. I am proud to say that this week’s Feature Friday is dedicated to LaRonna Turnbough. LaRonna is a resident of Austell, GA. She is an amazing wife, mother of six beautiful children and an entrepreneur. Her passion for ministry and family is strong and unwavering

LaRonna came to know the Lord at the age of eighteen. Growing up she wasn’t raised in a Christian home. Her mother was a strong single mom and her father wasn’t around during her childhood. In our interview she said, “In my late teen years dad had gotten born again and became a minister. At a family gathering I heard my family talking about dads past and was amazed at how unpleasant it was. That was not the man I knew.” She explained that after listening to the negative things they said about her father, she left the room. Her father followed her in an attempt to console her. She told him that she was surprised that he had turned his life around and if the Lord could change him, she too wanted to be born again. So she accepted Jesus as her Lord and Savior at that very moment. She said, “Hearing my father’s testimony inspired me to change my life.”

When asked what being a Saved M.O.M. means to her, LaRonna stated, “EVERYTHING! Apart from the Holy Spirit, the Lord and the word, I could not do what I do. It would be overwhelming and impossible to care for 6 children and do all that I do on a daily basis.” One of her favorite scriptures is Proverbs 3:5-6. This has been her saving grace and she acknowledges God in all things. She explained, “I am not looking to others and what they are doing. I know God will direct my path in regards to my children and my husband.

Considering that LaRonna is mother of six and provides in-home childcare to 5 other children I had to ask her to share “A day in the life of…” She said, “It all depends on the day, each day is different.” She starts her day around 6 am with devotion, prayer and word time. Then she prepares breakfast and gets the kids ready. Meanwhile the day care children are coming in. In the midst of all of this she and her husband are both at home simultaneously operating 2 businesses. I thought it was so beautiful when she shared, “My husband and I do everything together.” After breakfast, home school starts. There is a lunch break at 12:30 and home school ends at 3:30. The family sits down for a nice home cooked dinner around 5:30 while the daycare kids are leaving. After dinner they have “free-time” in which LaRonna may need to make business calls, perform business presentations, do laundry, go outside, or go to work out and the kids are down by 9pm. I just couldn’t believe that she actually has time for an intense work-out at the gym 3-5 times per week. By the way, she looks great!

I asked her to give us some advice on how she still manages to please her husband in the midst of everything else. She shared, “I Put God 1st and hubby 2nd. He still comes before kids and other things. Don’t put anything before your husband other than God. Keep yourself together. Do the things you did before when you were dating. Your children are not your world. Your energy can’t be misdirected. Think of ways to be creative and look good. If you are a stay at home mom, he doesn’t want to see your hair in rollers or you in pajamas when he gets home. You must prioritize and keep him happy. Remember to always direct your thoughts toward him.” LaRonna was very firm in stating, “Don’t make excuses as to why you can’t do this or that. Make time to stay on top of things. Get off the phone, get off the internet, and don’t always go out with your girlfriends. You must manage your time and prioritize.” LaRonna’s advice is given from the prospective of a married mother, but she wants to encourage the single mothers to take heed to what she has to say as well.

When asked if there were any words of wisdom that she wanted to share with other mothers, here’s what she had to say… “So many moms make the mistake of becoming mothers and loosing themselves and the baby becomes the center of their whole universe. Don’t let yourself go because you had baby.” She explained that it bother her when she hears excuses from mothers. She said, “Where there is a will there is a way. Focus on whatever is in your heart that really drives you. You have to esteem your children. Put your energy prayers and wisdom toward things of God. For the married moms, still wear lingerie, curl your hair, simply do what you gotta do. Be excellent at being a mom and a wife. Your life has amazing purpose; you are raising a generation to come instilling God’s plan and purpose in them.

She also wanted to share some information with mothers that may be looking for eco-friendly, economical, effective products that are safe for the home and can be delivered right to the doorstep. Also mothers that have children suffering from asthma, allergies, or eczema and moms that may be looking for an effective way to earn income from home while still caring for their children. If you fall into any of these categories she can help you. You can email her at lturnbough@saferforyourhome.com and she will contact you to show you how you can achieve health, wellness, and financial freedom from the comfort of your own home.

Be sure to tune in Monday for more words of encouragement and inspiration for M.O.M.’s near and far! Please share this blog with as many people as you know (www.savedmom.com), we have so many lives to touch. Feel free to post a comment and/or subscribe (if you are reading this from your inbox visit the site address referenced above to post a comment).

Mommie Blessings,

Shonte’ Press

Work it Out

Why oh why is it so hard to stay on a steady workout regiment? I have been really trying to stay true and committed to my workout routine, but I seem to be falling short on my weekly goal! This can get a bit frustrating at times considering that I want to stay healthy, toned and fit plus look great for my hubby. I recently spoke with a stay at home mother of six (all under the age of 10) who owns and operates two businesses and somehow manages to do an intense workout at the gym 3-5 times per week. In my mind I am like, “How in the world do you do this?” By the way, she looks FABULOUS!

So, I wake up every morning with plans to exercise after my devotion time. Sometimes it happens and sometimes it doesn’t. Then, if I miss the morning workout then I shoot for making up for it in the afternoon, which hardly ever happens. I feel that I would do so much better if I had a good workout buddy/accountability partner. I know that if I am accountable to someone other than myself and meet with a workout buddy consistently, my weekly goal would almost always be met. Although, I realize that instead of depending on man to give me the motivation that I need, I can depend on God. He will always be there, he will always be on time, and he will give me the strength to endure. “You are awesome, O God, in your sanctuary; the God of Israel gives power and strength to his people. Praise be to God! (Psalm 68:35). Today I declare that I will be more consistent in my workout plan and get strength from the Lord on the days that I feel like slacking.

Be sure to tune in tomorrow for more words of encouragement and inspiration for M.O.M.’s near and far! Please share this blog with as many people as you know (www.savedmom.com), we have so many lives to touch. Feel free to post a comment and/or subscribe (if you are reading this from your inbox visit the site address referenced above to post a comment).

Mommie Blessings,

Shonte’ Press

Word Wednesday

Today is officially “Word Wednesday” otherwise known as “Hump Day.” We’ve made it half way through yet another week on the wonderful, exciting and bumpy road of motherhood. Therefore, some of us are looking for some encouraging words to make it through the rest of the week with Joy and Peace. Every night before my son goes to bed, in addition to reading bible stories, I read him a passage out of “Prayers That Avail Much, First Blessings for Your Child” by Germaine Copeland. Mommies we have to keep our children prayed up and constantly put Gods word in their hearts.

Monday’s passage read, “May the Holy Spirit give you the understanding that Jesus is the vine and you are the branch. If you are in him you will bear much fruit.” I really like this passage and it definitely spoke to my spirit. As believers we should all bear abundant and abounding fruit. I was talking to my husband just a few days ago and I said to him, “Baby do you realize that we produce really good fruit together?” I was filled with utter and complete joy in that moment. I had an overwhelming feeling of thankfulness and happiness knowing that we have planted good seeds and we are reaping a wonderful harvest.

It’s so important that our children see that we produce good fruit. When they understand that Jesus is the vine and we are the branches they too will bear much fruit. We should explain to them that it is only through Jesus Christ that we have the opportunity to produce an everlasting fruit; fruit that will never die. Apart from him there is nothing that we can do and “truly” succeed. “I am the vine; you are the branches. If a man remains in me and I in him, he will bear much fruit; apart from me you can do nothing.” (John 15:5). Remember to stay encouraged and ask yourself, “Are my seeds producing good and plentiful fruit?”

Be sure to tune in tomorrow for more words of encouragement and inspiration for M.O.M.’s near and far! Please share this blog with as many people as you know (www.savedmom.com), we have so many lives to touch. Feel free to post a comment and/or subscribe (if you are reading this from your inbox visit the site address referenced above to post a comment).

Mommie Blessings,

Shonte' Press

Testimony Tuesday

As you all know today is Testimony Tuesday! I would like to share a personal testimony with you today. It may seem small to a lot of you all, but it is so big to me. For many years I suffered with Obsessive Compulsive Disorder (OCD), but praise God, I have been delivered!

I used to think that I was just a “neat freak” as a kid, but as I grew into my teen years I came to know that it was something much more serious. As a child I was overly obsessive about cleaning. It was so bad that sometimes I would get up at 1 am on a Saturday morning to vacuum the carpet. I am sure that this was very beneficial for my mother at the time. She was a single mom for several years and because of the OCD she never had to worry about our home being dirty. She would come home to a clean bedroom, rearranged kitchen cabinets and freshly vacuumed floors on a regular basis.

I started to realize that this was abnormal when my friends would come over for the weekend and make fun of me. They said they felt like I was nagging them, much like their mothers, about keeping everything in its place. As I grew older it started to go beyond just a cleaning thing. When walking on tile floors I had to step perfectly in each square without my foot touching the line. All of the light switches had to be facing the same way, if there were more than one in the wall-plate. The remote controls on the coffee table had to be in just the right spot. Clothes in the closet had to be arranged by type (skirts, shirts, pants, etc…) and then color. Believe me the list goes on and on!

When I married my husband these things really irritated him and caused quite a bit of dissention between us. It was then that I realized I needed help. I turned to God and my husband to help me overcome this disorder. I thought that it was a good thing to be overly obsessive about cleanliness, but I had to learn that there must be balance in all things. “Honest scales and balances are from the LORD; all the weights in the bag are of his making"(Proverbs 16:11). Praise be to God that I can finally say that I am no longer bound by OCD. I am so thankful that I can finally go to sleep without having to get up to fix the remote controls!

Be sure to tune in tomorrow for more words of encouragement and inspiration for M.O.M.’s near and far! Please share this blog with as many people as you know (www.savedmom.com), we have so many lives to touch. Feel free to post a comment and/or subscribe (if you are reading this from your inbox visit the site address referenced above to post a comment).

Mommie Blessings,

Shonte’ Press

Security Blanket

It has been on my heart to write about this subject for several days now. For a while I’ve gone back and forth on making the decision to write about the importance of tithing. It’s such a touchy topic for many, but it is oh so important. It breaks my heart to hear of so many people loosing their financial footing during the economic times that we are in, but I thank God for my family’s protection. Tithing is something that we do on a consistent basis in our household. I am so appreciative that my mother and pastor instilled this principle in me soon after I received salvation; it has made all of the difference. For example, I left “Corporate America” to pursue my acting/modeling career in 2005 and not once have I had a need that wasn’t met. I know beyond the shadow of a doubt that this is because of my obedience in the area of tithing.

For those of you that don’t understand the principle of tithing, it’s simply a matter of returning ten percent of your increase (money that you receive/earn) to God. You do so by giving this tenth of your increase to your church home or to a local church. I see my tithe as my personal “security blanket.” It protects me and my family in so many ways. The word tells us, “Bring the whole tithe into the storehouse, that there may be food in my house. Test me in this," says the LORD Almighty, "and see if I will not throw open the floodgates of heaven and pour out so much blessing that you will not have room enough for it.” (Malachi 3:10).

Sometimes I hear people say that they have to pay their utility bills instead of their tithe. I just wish that they would understand that once the tithe is given, the Lord will see to it that the utilities are taken care of. Although, we should also be cheerful givers with a willingness to return to God what already belongs to Him.

As mothers we must do everything that we can to ensure that our families are protected and blessed. It excites me to know that God has seen fit for me and my family to have financial increase, which allows us the opportunity to give our tithes and offerings. I won’t get into the topic of offerings in this entry, but rest assured that I will cover this subject in a future entry.

Please make it a point to return the tithe to God and teach your children this very important principle. I know that it sounds really clichéish, but you really can’t beat God giving no matter how hard you try. Be sure to tune in tomorrow for more words of encouragement and inspiration for M.O.M.’s near and far! Please share this blog with as many people as you know (www.savedmom.com), we have so many lives to touch. Feel free to post a comment and/or subscribe (if you are reading this from your inbox visit the site address referenced above to post a comment).

Mommie Blessings,

Shonte’ Press

Feature Friday

Good day to all the beautiful and blessed Saved M.O.M.’s out there! I want to do things a little different in this Feature Friday entry. As most of you know, on Friday’s we usually feature a Saved M.O.M. and tell a little about her story.

Today I feel the need to give honor to ALL of the Saved M.O.M.s. Considering that there are millions of you out there, we don’t have an opportunity to feature each and everyone one of you. Some of you may feel that you are doing the best to make it through each day and that no one recognizes the sacrifices that you are making while raising your children, but I do. Thank you for simply being you. Don’t try to compare yourself to other mothers that you may think are doing a better job. Don’t beat yourself up for the mistakes that you have made. Allow the things that haven’t broken you to make you stronger. Keep your head up, your heart open to love and your mind on Him. For it is the Lord that gives us strength to make it through. “but those who hope in the LORD will renew their strength. They will soar on wings like eagles; they will run and not grow weary, they will walk and not be faint.” (Isaiah 40:31). Stay strong my sister and keep the faith, for His plans are wonderful. “For I know the plans I have for you," declares the LORD, "plans to prosper you and not to harm you, plans to give you hope and a future.” (Jeremiah 29:11).

Be sure to tune in Monday for more words of encouragement and inspiration for M.O.M.’s near and far! Please share this blog with as many people as you know (http://www.savedmom.com/), we have so many lives to touch. Feel free to post a comment and/or subscribe (if you are reading this from your inbox visit the site address referenced above to post a comment).

Mommie Blessings,

Shonte’ Press

Coming Into My Own

There were so many topics that I wanted to write about today, but I had to narrow it down to one. I thank God that I am finally “coming into my own.” For so many years I searched and prayed for direction and clarity. The Lord has been slowly revealing His will for my life. If you asked me 10 years ago where I would be today I probably would have said undoubtedly, “I will be a successful actress, living in New York, living the sexy and single life and loving it!” Wow, I am so far from that, but it’s so wonderful that God knows best and that he orders our steps.

We often wonder what our purpose is and what the future holds. What I have come to learn is that if we TOTALLY surrender ourselves to Him, things will work out in His most excellent harmony. I have no doubt that I will have all things that my heart desires – just in His timing. “Delight yourself in the LORD and he will give you the desires of your heart.” (Psalm 37:4). I have learned to be patient and not put time restraints on God. How awful it would be for Him to grant me the desires of my heart before I am truly ready to receive them. Father really does know best.

As I have written before, I never knew that I would have embarked upon the wonderful calling of motherhood when I did, but praise God that I did. For if I had not been obedient and allowed His will to be done in this area this ministry would not yet have been birthed. You would not be reading the words on this page and I might not have started to “come into my own.” Thank you Lord for speaking to me and leading me. So the next time that you think that things are not going the way that you would have planned, consider the words written on this page.

Be sure to tune in Monday for more words of encouragement and inspiration for M.O.M.’s near and far! Please share this blog with as many people as you know (www.savedmom.com), we have so many lives to touch. Feel free to post a comment and/or subscribe (if you are reading this from your inbox visit the site address referenced above to post a comment).

Mommie Blessings,

Shonte’ Press

Word Wednesday

Today is officially “Word Wednesday” otherwise known as “Hump Day.” We’ve made it half way through yet another week on the wonderful, exciting and bumpy road of motherhood. Therefore, some of us are looking for some encouraging words to make it through the rest of the week with Joy and Peace. Every night before my son goes to bed, in addition to reading bible stories, I read him a passage out of “Prayers That Avail Much, First Blessings for Your Child” by Germaine Copeland. Mommies we have to keep our children prayed up and constantly put Gods word in their hearts.

Yesterday’s passage read, “I thank God that you will keep our commands, and you will not forsake the law of your mother. Wherever you walk, they will guide you; whenever you rest, they will guard you; when you wake up, they will tell you what’s next.” This makes me think of how wonderful it is to have a mother that is leading you in His way according to His word and His will. Being a mother is not always an easy task, but it is one that the Lord saw fit for us to have. So many times I have wondered how much pain and disappointment I would have been spared if I only listened to my mother more. She was trying to lead and guide me the “right” way, but I didn’t see it that way at the time.

It is imperative that we keep His commands so that we can rear up children that keep His commands. In order to do so we must know the Commandments and stay in His word. I have been working on reading and studying more frequently. It’s amazing that we have time for EVERYTHING else, but when it’s “Word” time we fall short. I’m preaching to myself as well! Let’s make a decision to study, read and meditate on the word daily. “Do not let this Book of the Law depart from your mouth; meditate on it day and night, so that you may be careful to do everything written in it. Then you will be prosperous and successful.” (Joshua 1:8). Even if it’s just for 5 minutes that’s okay, just make sure it’s 5 minutes of quality time with Him.

Be sure to tune in Monday for more words of encouragement and inspiration for M.O.M.’s near and far! Please share this blog with as many people as you know (www.savedmom.com), we have so many lives to touch. Feel free to post a comment and/or subscribe (if you are reading this from your inbox visit the site address referenced above to post a comment).

Mommie Blessings,

Shonte’ Press

Technical Difficulties

We have been experiencing technical difficulties for a few days now. The blog entries should resume as normal on Wednesday, June 10. Saved M.O.M.’s blog spot has been in existence since April 15th, 2009. Therefore, if you have not been an active subscriber or reader since then please take this time to check out some of our previous posts by scrolling down a bit (www.savedmom.com) and clicking under “Blog Archive” on the right side of the page. Thanks for your continued support!

Feature Friday

Congratulations, you made it through another week in the life of a Saved M.O.M.! Here at savedmom.com we take time out on Fridays to feature Saved M.O.M.’s . There are so many wonderful mothers that don’t get the recognition they deserve. I am proud to say that this week’s Feature Friday is dedicated to Barbara Coaxum Press affectionately known to many as Nan. She currently resides in Mt. Vernon, NY and is the mother of three. Barbara Press is 81 years young and still leads a very active lifestyle. She is a retired x-ray technician, an active volunteer in her church, an active member of her local AARP branch, and still manages to have social gatherings in her home for family and friends.

Mrs. Press came to know the Lord at the age of 16. She has been a member of Greater Centennial AME Zion Church since her childhood and decided to join and receive salvation during alter call one Sunday. In these days and times it’s not often that you meet someone that has been at the same church their entire life. She has seen at least 4 Pastors serve during her time there. When I asked her what prompted her to receive salvation she said, “I decided that being in the Lords house was the best place for me at the time.”

Barbara enjoys being a Saved M.O.M. and gives God all the glory for allowing her to have raised her children in a loving Christian home. She said that being a Saved M.O.M. means, “I have to walk a straight and narrow line and be an example to others.” She enjoys reading the bible before she rises every morning. Mrs. Press has 6 different bibles but she prefers the New Living Translation. Her favorite scripture is the 103 Psalm. She also enjoys Romans 8:28. Her husband of 42 years passed 17 years ago. When discussing her loss she explained, “It was easy to cope with because I had my children for support and the Lord. I never mourned because I didn’t want the children to see me sad.”

I asked her to leave us with a few words of encouragement, considering that she has experienced all phases of motherhood. She shared, “Do your best to help out your fellow man. Remember that everything passes and the Lord will not give you more than you can bear. Always enjoy your children while they are young and with you. When they are little they win your heart but when they are older they can break your heart.” She thanks God that her children have never broken her heart. She said, “My children have been very supportive, especially Gregory (her middle child).”

Be sure to tune in Monday for more words of encouragement and inspiration for M.O.M.’s near and far! Please share this blog with as many people as you know (www.savedmom.com), we have so many lives to touch. Feel free to post a comment and/or subscribe (if you are reading this from your inbox visit the site address referenced above to post a comment).

Mommie Blessings,

Shonte’ Press

At the Dinner Table

As I sat back in my computer chair this morning, I asked God to give me inspiration for this entry. Then he spoke, “At the dinner table.” So operating in obedience, as I strive to do daily, today’s entry will be dedicated to this topic.

For those of you that know me, you can attest to the fact that healthy nutrition is very important to me. Having said that, it bothers me when I see so many children growing up on fast food and processed foods. We say that we want the best for our kids and we want them to lead healthy and productive lives, but how can that happen if they are pumped with saturated fats and sugar all day everyday. I know that I am on my soap box, so let me step down and calm down. I am not perfect and I do indulge in the fast food/sugar fix from time to time. Nonetheless, the bulk of my dietary intake is healthy and home-prepared.

It’s so important that we take time out to prepare healthy and nutritious meals for our families and most importantly ourselves. Then, once those meals are prepared, let us not grab the tray tables or run to our rooms to eat. Let’s sit down as a family and engage in fellowship by breaking bread together. “They devoted themselves to the apostles' teaching and to the fellowship, to the breaking of bread and to prayer.” (Acts 2:42). This allows for much needed bonding time at the end of the day, and you will be surprised by the conversation that the kids will engage in during this time. We get so distracted by the everyday hustle and bustle, which takes time away from our kids and our families. Although, we can counteract this effect by taking 30-45 minutes at the end of the day to eat together and converse in love. Hey, maybe you can even get the kids to help out in the kitchen, set the table, and/or help with clean up. This will give you some assistance and lengthen the bonding time!

Be sure to tune in tomorrow for more words of encouragement and inspiration for M.O.M.’s near and far! Please share this blog with as many people as you know (www.savedmom.com), we have so many lives to touch. Feel free to post a comment and/or subscribe (if you are reading this from your inbox visit the site address referenced above to post a comment).

Mommie Blessings,

Shonte’ Press

Word Wednesday

Today is officially “Word Wednesday” otherwise known as “Hump Day.” We’ve made it half way through yet another week on the wonderful, exciting and bumpy road of motherhood. Therefore, some of us are looking for some encouraging words to make it through the rest of the week with Joy and Peace. Every night before my son goes to bed, in addition to reading bible stories, I read him a passage out of “Prayers That Avail Much, First Blessings for Your Child” by Germaine Copeland. Mommies we have to keep our children prayed up and constantly put Gods word in their hearts.

Yesterday’s passage read, “I thank God for being a strength and shield to you. Your heart shall trust in the Lord, and you will be helped. Your heart will leap for joy, and you will give thanks to him in song.” In reflection of this passage I want to use this blog entry to give thanks and praise to my Father, the only wise God! I thank the Lord for all of his grace and mercy. Sometimes we get so caught up and don’t take time out to just say thanks. We are not worthy on our merit or good works alone. It is only because of the True and Living God that we have salvation and everlasting life. “The LORD is my strength and my song; he has become my salvation. He is my God, and I will praise him, my father's God, and I will exalt him.” (Exodus 15:2). Thank You Jesus! That’s why I love Him like I do. This is what we must teach our children. They too should praise and worship Him in all His glory.

So often I get excited when I think about what God has done in our lives. We were once bound by lives of sin and recklessness and now look at us. I could do a praise dance right now just thinking back all of the mess He brought me out of. I am going to take some time to fall on my knees once again and reverence and honor our Heavenly King. Will you join me in this moment of praise and worship?

Be sure to tune in tomorrow for more words of encouragement and inspiration for M.O.M.’s near and far! Please share this blog with as many people as you know (www.savedmom.com), we have so many lives to touch. Feel free to post a comment and/or subscribe (if you are reading this from your inbox visit the site address referenced above to post a comment).

Mommie Blessings,

Shonte’ Press

Testimony Tuesday

Today is Testimony Tuesday and I am thrilled to have the opportunity to share a mother’s testimony with you. Please feel free to share your testimony with us at anytime. To submit your testimony, scroll down to the bottom of the page and click on the “submit” button or leave a comment with a contact email address below. Enjoy this heart filled story about the way in which God answered a mother’s prayer.

This testimony was submitted by Kenya Hawkins. She is a loving, kind and vibrant woman of God. She makes being a Stay at Home Mom look sweat less and I know for a fact that it is not! She actually enjoys working out, cooking, and cleaning. She stated, “Okay, now I know you may be thinking these are things most women complain about doing… but I like to think that because I enjoy doing these things makes me a unique individual.”

Kenya has a two year old son and his name is Kristopher. He was born premature, at 2 pounds 6 ounces and 13 1/2 inches. Kenya was 27.5 weeks into her pregnancy when she was diagnosed with Preeclampsia. Her blood pressure was 160/153 and she had all the signs and symptoms of Preeclampsia (Pregnancy-Induced Hypertension). It’s also referred to as Toxemia. This condition can stem from high blood pressure during pregnancy. While no one knows exactly what causes PIH or why it develops most often in first-time moms-to-be, some research links it to poor nutrition. Studies suggest tiny doses of aspirin or large doses of calcium may reduce the risk. Some of the signs and symptoms are: swelling of the hands and face with sudden excessive weight gain (both related to water retention); high blood pressure (140/90 or more in a woman who has never before had high blood pressure); and protein in the urine. Kenya explained, “Kristopher was born on December 18, 2006 and I did not get to hold him until January 18, 2007. Kris was in neonatal intensive care unit and the only contact I with him was stroking my finger on his little arms and legs. Yes ladies, a whole month went by before I got to hold my son for the first time and then Kris stayed in the hospital for two more months before he was able to come home.” Kris came home on March 12, 2007. He was taking five different medications and on a machine that monitored his breathing. Almost two and a half years later, with Gods blessings, Kristopher is healthy and does not have any development issues. He can identify the alphabets and numbers 1-10. Kenya exclaimed, “He is speaking more and more each day and I am loving it. A day does not go by without me giving thanks to God for my lovely son, he's great.”

Praise be to God for such an awesome testimony of His loving-kindness! Be sure to tune in tomorrow for more words of encouragement and inspiration for M.O.M.’s near and far! Please share this blog with as many people as you know (www.savedmom.com), we have so many lives to touch. Feel free to post a comment and/or subscribe (if you are reading this from your inbox visit the site address referenced above to post a comment).

Mommie Blessings,

Shonte’ Press

Night Time Flame

Good day ladies! I pray that all of you had a wonderfully blessed weekend. Is it just me or do they always seem to fly by? So today I need to talk about something that has been on my mind. I wasn’t sure as to how you all would receive it, but I have to be obedient and follow the way in which I am led. Here goes…

Some of us have figured out the art juggling the role of motherhood and keeping the flame lit in the bedroom, but there are so many of us that haven’t. I mean after being superwoman all day, how does one gain the energy to slip out of the superwoman cape into the sheets of desire and affection? It amazes me when I hear some mothers talk about how their flame never goes out. I’m like what energy drink are you drinking and where in the world can I find it! My day starts around 6:30 am and in the course of a day I… prepare hubby’s breakfast and lunch, have much needed spiritual time, clean, work from home, take care of our son, run errands, cook, blog, work out and handle the “unexpected’s” of the day. By night time all I want to do is just collapse into the bed. But then I turn over and see that sparkle in his eye.

What we must realize is that we have to keep our priorities in order. Remember the order goes God first, family second, ministry third, then all else follows. So many times we want to be superwoman, but we need to take time to really enjoy our families. Our days here on earth are but a few (“for we were born only yesterday and know nothing, and our days on earth are but a shadow” Job 8:9), so we should spend this time cherishing moments with the ones we love the most. I mean does it really matter if laundry gets put off another day or two or if we have left over’s sometimes? We must take care of the “help meet” that God has blessed us with, for we were designed for this task. “And the LORD God said, It is not good that the man should be alone; I will make him an help meet for him.” (Genesis 2:18). So why don’t you take some time out tonight to light the flame without being prompted by the “sparkle in his eye.”

Be sure to tune in tomorrow for more words of encouragement and inspiration for M.O.M.’s near and far! Please share this blog with as many people as you know (www.savedmom.com), we have so many lives to touch. Feel free to post a comment and/or subscribe (if you are reading this from your inbox visit the site address referenced above to post a comment).

Mommie Blessings,

Shonte’ Press