Month: January 2024

Love Languages

What Does Valentine’s Day Mean to You?

The Kedge Anchor

Thank you to all who have followed me here and on YouTube the past week where I showed ways to wrap up the Five Languages of Love as actual tangible gifts.

Over the years growing up Valentine’s Day has had different meanings. As a kid, It was those cheap boxed die cut cards that every kid in school passed out to almost everyone. I would make cards for my mom and dad. I guess I have been making greeting cards for sometime now, lol, and my mom would always say “Roses are red violets are blue aren’t you glad God loves you.” When I moved away, even after I was married she’d cut out a read heart and write that little poem on it.

As I became an adult and being single I began to dread Valentine’s Day. I thought it was because I was unattached, no steady boyfriend at times that I would dread it. But even if I happened to have a boyfriend at the time, it was still looking back, uh, unfulfilling. I thought once I was married, it would be different, I would look forward to it. Well, I have been married 30 years this coming spring and I’ll admit it’s not as dreadful but there is always that pressure to get the perfect gift, the grand gesture, the wow factor. Even if you’re single there’s still pressure, right? The traditional, expected dozen roses that are waaaay over priced this time every year, the box of chocolates. Diamond sales go up, nothing wrong with getting engaged on Valentine’s Day. But can we be a little more imaginative, unexpected, more original?

Honestly, I don’t need a calendar to tell me when to express or celebrate my love for anyone. So with that off the table, less pressure more room for originality and creativity. Singles, no matter how old you are, you don’t need a boyfriend or a girlfriend to celebrate Valentine’s Day. You have family, friends? Gather!!!! High schoolers go to proms in groups. Gather your family, invite them to dinner, do the same with your friends. Take photos and make memories.

Husband’s, wive’s can we be more imaginative? Can we think outside the chocolates and roses? Does it have to cost an arm and a leg to express your love? Does it have to be February 14th? Why not all year long? Download the coupon book, make twelve coupons for an adventure every month. Try a new recipe and cook dinner together once a month. Consider your loved one’s love language this Valentine’s Day. Get creative, be imaginative, create memories and experiences.

The greatest gift of love was given to us by God Himself and it wasn’t on February 14th. We celebrate His birth, death and resurrection. God expressed His love for us by giving us His Son. He sacrificed His only Son for us. Jesus gave His life, His blood and rose from the dead three days later for us so that we could live in eternity forever with Him. God’s gift of salvation cost Him everything so it could cost us nothing. It’s free, all we have to do is accept it. The greatest gesture of love, the greatest example of love, His sacrifice. What an expression of love!!

Uncategorized

Love Languages – Gifts Day 5

The Kedge Anchor

Well, we made it to day five, well I did anyway. Bit of a challenge to put the videos together but with God’s help we did it. I saved gifts for last because really they could be given to anyone as encouragement. Even if words of affirmation isn’t someone’ love language, we all still encouragement and letting someone know that you are on their side or are their biggest fan can be encouraging.

A coupon book is great to way to wrap up gifts of service. Perhaps you have a neighbor who needs help with yard word or needs help getting errands done, give a coupon book with some flowers to someone who like gardening.

Now, the blanket, that’s going to be tricky. I would not recommend this for a co-worker. This is probably best given to a family member, one of your kids, a spouse, someone you are close to. There have been many studies done about the importance of physical touch and how it affects our mental health.

A clock or a calendar is a great way to wrap up the language of quality time. A clock can be a great reminder. If it’s for your spouse, it can be a good way to remind you of your commitment to spend quality time with them and to remind your recipient that they are valued and loved. Calendars are another great way to express love through memories of special occasions or some really goofy times. It’s also a low tech way to plan some adventures together. Make it a themed calendar and find images of your loved one’s hobbies. Perhaps your recipient likes to cook, find some new recipes to try together.

So really any of the above mentioned can be a thoughtful way to give a Valentine’sDay gift. It doesn’t have to be the only gift, pair it with something, get creative how you present it.

Thanks for following along with me. I hope these suggestions helped spark some other ideas. If so, I’d love to hear them, please leave a comment.

Day 4 – http://tinyurl.com/mr3sra9t

Day 3 – http://tinyurl.com/mv6sz4b2

Day 2 – http://tinyurl.com/y35582h5

Day 1- http://tinyurl.com/yt4sfnau

Zazzle Store links
Calendar – For the cover page you see in the video you can download on my website for free, here’s the link – http://tinyurl.com/25vd74vw

Clocks – Square – http://tinyurl.com/2ye263e5
Round – http://tinyurl.com/5n758ad7

Valentine’s Day blanket:
Ready to purchase -http://tinyurl.com/2n63t75s
Custumizable Blanket – http://tinyurl.com/57hxkkpz

Uncategorized

Love Languages – Gifts Day 5

The Kedge Anchor

Well, we made it to day five, well I did anyway. Bit of a challenge to put the videos together but with God’s help we did it. I saved gifts for last because really they could be given to anyone as encouragement. Even if words of affirmation isn’t someone’ love language, we all still encouragement and letting someone know that you are on their side or are their biggest fan can be encouraging.

A coupon book is great to way to wrap up gifts of service. Perhaps you have a neighbor who needs help with yard word or needs help getting errands done, give a coupon book with some flowers to someone who like gardening.

Now, the blanket, that’s going to be tricky. I would not recommend this for a co-worker. This is probably best given to a family member, one of your kids, a spouse, someone you are close to. There have been many studies done about the importance of physical touch and how it affects our mental health.

A clock or a calendar is a great way to wrap up the language of quality time. A clock can be a great reminder. If it’s for your spouse, it can be a good way to remind you of your commitment to spend quality time with them and to remind your recipient that they are valued and loved. Calendars are another great way to express love through memories of special occasions or some really goofy times. It’s also a low tech way to plan some adventures together. Make it a themed calendar and find images of your loved one’s hobbies. Perhaps your recipient likes to cook, find some new recipes to try together.

So really any of the above mentioned can be a thoughtful way to give a Valentine’sDay gift. It doesn’t have to be the only gift, pair it with something, get creative how you present it.

Thanks for following along with me. I hope these suggestions helped spark some other ideas. If so, I’d love to hear them, please leave a comment.

Day 4 – http://tinyurl.com/mr3sra9t

Day 3 – http://tinyurl.com/mv6sz4b2

Day 2 – http://tinyurl.com/y35582h5

Day 1- http://tinyurl.com/yt4sfnau

Zazzle Store links
Calendar – For the cover page you see in the video you can download on my website for free, here’s the link – http://tinyurl.com/25vd74vw

Clocks – Square – http://tinyurl.com/2ye263e5
Round – http://tinyurl.com/5n758ad7

Valentine’s Day blanket:
Ready to purchase -http://tinyurl.com/2n63t75s
Custumizable Blanket – http://tinyurl.com/57hxkkpz

Love Languages

Love Language – Quality Time Day 4

The Kedge Anchor
image_123650291Download

Relationships are important in our lives, both with other people and with God. We were not designed to live in isolation, but to rely on and support one another. Having a relationship with God, is the most important connection we can have. God has made a way for this relationship to be possible through the sacrifice of Jesus’s blood.

Creating a personalized calendar is a great way to commemorate moments and plan for future adventures. With the abundance of photos that we have on our phones or stored away, selecting just twelve may be a tough task. To make it easier, you can opt for themed collages, focusing on different aspects or events of your life.

In the case of a milestone anniversary, it would be fitting to include some wedding photos that hold special meaning. Alternatively, if you’re looking to spend more time with your kids, use photos of their growth and achievements over the years. To plan ahead, you could even include images that represent your monthly activities or goals.

If you’re aiming to prioritize spending time with friends, utilize candid photos of them having fun or doing silly things. The image provided above can be downloaded and used as the cover page for your calendar.

Personalizing a calendar can be fun when looking for photos to personalize it. Just type in calendars in the search to create your own. If you like you can use the image I provided for the cover or use one of your own.

To get started, visit Zazzle and upload your favorite images of your spouse, family, or friends. With this personalized calendar, you’ll not only have a wonderful memento but also a visual reminder to cherish and prioritize the important people in your life.

Perhaps you just want to be reminded to schedule some quality time. I have designed two images for clocks, one square and one round that you can purchase through my store on Zazzle, Square Clock Round Clock

Valentine’s Day or any other occasion, it is valuable to make a commitment to spend quality time with loved ones who have this love language. Extending this commitment to not only to spouses but also to family members, children, and friends. By prioritizing and dedicating time to spend together, we can build stronger bonds and deeper connections. Express your love and appreciation by investing time and attention in the relationships that matter most.

Love Languages

Love Languages – Physical Touch Day 3

The Kedge Anchor

It is important to recognize that human touch plays a significant role in our overall well-being. While some individuals may not enjoy or seek out physical touch, it is essential to understand that the lack of touch can have adverse effects on our mental health. Trauma resulting in anxiety or panic triggered by touch should not be dismissed but rather addressed with professional help to find hope and healing. Counseling can be a valuable resource in overcoming these challenges and finding a balanced approach to human touch based on individual preferences and comfort levels.

Research suggests that a blanket can provide a comforting and soothing experience, especially in situations where human touch may not be readily available. It’s thoughtful of you to have a gift that can potentially offer that sense of comfort to someone.

A blanket can a thoughtful and considerate solution to help bridge the physical distance and still cater to your partner’s love language of physical touch. The option to personalize and customize one of the blankets adds an extra touch of sentimentality, making it a special gift for your loved one.

I have designed these two blankets and you can purchase either of them in my Zazzle store.

This one above is ready to purchase with a photo of a couple walking on the beach, that could be you. Or if you prefer, I also designed one for you to customize and make more personal by adding your photo and adding more text.

If you need more personalization and customization, please contact me. There’s no extra cost to customize on Zazzle, but if there’s something you need changed, let me know we can work something out.

Human touch is indeed essential for our well-being, as it provides comfort, connection, and a sense of belonging. While everyone may have different preferences and love languages, it is important to recognize the significance of touch in our lives. However, I want to be sensitive and acknowledge that some individuals may have experienced trauma related to touch, and seeking counseling can be a helpful step towards healing and finding healthy ways to engage with touch. God created us for community, community with Him and with others. We don’t have to navigate life alone.

Love Languages, Uncategorized

Love Language – Acts of Service Day 2

The Kedge Anchor

Acts of service can be a powerful way to express love and care in relationships. Taking note of the little things your loved one needs or dislikes and offering help or assistance demonstrates thoughtfulness and consideration. Paying attention to their schedule and offering support or taking on tasks they may find burdensome can also strengthen the bond. Creating a coupon book with personalized acts of service can be a creative and meaningful gesture to show your love and appreciation.

Offering to pick up their dry cleaning or assisting with repairs, cooking, or gardening can be thoughtful ways to help someone with a busy schedule. It shows that you are paying attention to their needs and are willing to lend a hand in areas where you have expertise or skills.

But how do wrap up acts of service and put a bow on it? I got that! A coupon book. You can download this printable, personalize and customize, make as many coupons as you want, bind it (binding can simply be staples) and pair it with chocolates or flowers or maybe cook a meal and present it as a complete package. This way, not only are you offering acts of service, but you are also presenting it in a visually appealing and thoughtful manner. Additionally, the inclusion of a small gift like chocolates, flowers, or a home-cooked meal adds an extra touch of appreciation and makes it a complete and well-rounded gesture of kindness.

Learn more about love languages and gain better insight about yourself through these quizzes.

Scroll down to download this free printable

Valentine’s Day Coupon BookDownload

If you aren’t familiar with the 5 Love Languages, pick up a copy of Gary Chapman’s book any where books are sold. Be sure to watch day one’s video on words of affirmation.

Please leave your comments, like and subscribe you’d be doing me a loving act of service : ) and I’d love to hear what you will do for your spouse or loved one and how you presented it.

Love Languages

Love Language – Words of Affirmation Day 1

The Kedge Anchor
Valentine’s Day Words of AffirmationDownload

Valentine’s Day is quickly approaching and what better why to celebrate than speaking your spouse’s or your loved one’s love language. If you aren’t familiar with the 5 love languages, pick up a copy of Gary Chapman’s book The 5 Love Languages

The 5 Love Languages® is a valuable resource that can help individuals strengthen their connections and experience greater joy and harmony in their relationships. By understanding and expressing love in the language most meaningful to their loved ones, individuals can overcome feelings of disconnection and loneliness, fostering deeper and more fulfilling connections with the people they care about.

Speaking words of affirmation is a powerful way to build confidence and strengthen the bond in relationships. By expressing appreciation, encouragement, and compliments, individuals can uplift their loved ones, boost their self-esteem, and create a positive and supportive environment. This practice fosters a deeper sense of connection and fosters a strong foundation built on love and mutual respect.

This video focuses on words of affirmation and how you can wrap up words as a tangible gift.

I hope these videos provide inspiration for creating personalized gifts. Please leave your ideas in the comments I’d love to hear to hear them. And please like, subscribe and follow on social media. A heart felt thanks! : )

Coloring Page, prayer pages

Happy New Year 2024! Introducing Prayer Pages

The Kedge Anchor

Happy new Year from The Kedge Anchor! Wow where has time gone? It’s hard to believe how quickly time passed. 2023 got a little rough toward the end but I, we survived.

Jeremiah 29:11 says, “For I know the plans I have for you…” God has many things in store for us, good things, because His Word says, in James 1:17, “Every good and perfect gift is from above.” Uncertainty and not knowing the future can be scary. It helps me to remember our times are in God’s hands and what better place to be. God is sovereign and nothing goes unnoticed by Him. Trust Him!!

So for 2024, I think I am going to keep my goals and focus from last year (I have them written down somewhere). One of my goals is to try and keep a schedule here and not get so tripped up or behind when a migraine strikes.

There is one new goal I think I’d like to add and that is working on my prayer life. Prayer is a Christian’s life line. It’s how we communicate with God. I don’t know if this happens to you when you pray, but I some days I have a hard time focusing and the next thing I know, I’m kinda no longer praying but thinking about the million things I gotta do or my mind is racing down a track I have no idea how it got there. Sometimes I can trace my thoughts to where it started all because someone came to mind and started me thinking about something totally unrelated.

Here’s a video by Mike Donehey on praying.

LOl, does this happen to you too? I’m glad I’m not the only one. I like Mike’s idea of praying out loud and walking and talking with God. (It’s just too cold most days). So last summer as I was trying to stay focused, I started writing the names of people I was praying for in an old sketchbook, then I drew a flower and placed the names of everyone I was praying for. And as I was praying I was coloring in the petals and leaves. Then on the other page I wrote the things I was thankful for. I kept doing this everyday. I looked forward to getting up and drawing and praying. I was actually staying focused.

So I came up with Prayer Pages. 

Whale Prayer Page Download

I would draw and color as I was praying, here all you need to do is add names and color it in if you like. It’s also a great way to keep track of answered prayer. I would at the top write in the date somewhere. You could draw in a sun, maybe some clouds, and add the date there or write it in on the banner over the whale’s head. Then as you write in the names of whom you are praying you can color the fish or not. I found that it helped me stay more focused.

Try it, this is a free download, print a couple of copies and try it for a few days. On the back write down 3 to 5 thing for which you are thankful. Let me know how this works for you. If you are rushed for time some days, just write in what or who you are praying for and later perhaps before going bed go back and color it in. This is a good way to wind down if your thoughts are racing. 

Whale Prayer Page Colored Download

Above is the prayer pager to download if you just want to record the prayers for others.