Passionate Housewives author interview: Stacy McDonald
Scroll to the bottom to learn how to win a free copy!
I recently had the privilege of spending some time with Stacy McDonald and Jennie Chancey, authors of Passionate Housewives Desperate for God, and when I talked to them about doing an online interview, they were both happy to participate.
Here are Stacy’s answers to my questions.
Your book is already getting quite a bit of favorable attention from a wide variety of sources. Did you expect this kind of reception?
We weren’t really sure what to expect, but I don’t think either of us were prepared for all the press it’s been getting. We’re thrilled though – our prayer has been that God would use it to His glory—encouraging Christian wives and mothers “in the trenches”
Are you saying Passionate Housewives was written only for wives and mothers?
When we wrote Passionate Housewives we had in mind the weary or discouraged homemaker who needed that extra boost to remind her of the importance of her calling. The book could have easily been called, “Why am I doing this again?” I noticed one reviewer called our book a “why-to book for moms rather than a how-to book.” I thought that was a good description.
Interestingly enough, we’ve received emails and letters from all sorts of other women as well. Single women, grandmothers whose children are all grown, working women; and we’ve even heard from women who had been sucked into feminism and were now ready to repent and turn their hearts to their families.
What motivated you to write this book?
The “me-first” ideas and teachings out there today are overwhelming. We were so tired of seeing new books and teachings coming out that told women they needed to focus more on themselves – not only because it’s unbiblical, but because it doesn’t work! It may be a quick fix, but it won’t give women what they’re truly after—peace, satisfaction, and a fulfilled life. Where is “satisfying self” in Scripture? There seems to be a growing trend toward focusing on self-esteem and more me-time than on preferring others and dying to self, like Jesus taught.
Also, we wanted to do more than dispel the myths and stereotypes surrounding the role of the housewife. We wanted every woman to know that being a helper to her husband, raising godly children, and properly managing her home is well worth the effort. We wanted to impart a vision—to communicate the beauty of living out Christ in the day to day life of a housewife.
Who did you write this book for? Do you think it will go beyond your intended audience?
We were primarily writing to Christian homemakers. We knew there were “desperate” women out there who needed encouragement by hearing the truths of Scripture. They needed to know about God’s wonderful solution to their desperation—and that it wouldn’t be met by chasing after more me-time.
Is the average Christian woman ready for this message?
We’re excited and humbled to see how God is using Passionate Housewives. We weren’t sure how our book would be received; it’s not your typical feel-good woman’s book. Some of it is challenging. But from the reception we’ve gotten so far, I think more women than we realized are tired of having their ears tickled; they’re ready for some meat—they’re ready to be stretched..
Did you learn anything new in the process of writing and researching Passionate Housewives?
Oh yes; we learned a ton. Some things we didn’t necessarily want to learn. Jennie already knew a lot about feminism, but we both learned how much the movement is growing among evangelical Christians—it’s absolutely startling!
Ironically, God also revealed to us a lot about our own hearts. I, for one, learned that I still deal with a lot of selfishness and feministic baggage in my own life. The whole white-washed feminism idea came from my realizing I had so much “renewing of the mind” to do in my own life. As I recognized it in me, I started to recognize it in books, blogs, websites, and teachers. It’s funny, but when God calls us to teach others, He typically begins by pruning our own hearts first!
I love how you refer to “the fanatical sock-matching wonder woman” in chapter 3. In our house, if 2 socks are the same color, they match. If they fit you, they’re yours. Do you think some housewives discourage themselves by maintaining unnecessarily high standards in the wrong areas?
Definitely! I used to be one of those women – I still am on occasion. I remember one night, early in my marriage, lying awake while my husband slept, fighting the urge to rearrange his underwear drawer. I had noticed earlier that he had “messed it up” while rummaging in his drawer and I had planned to “fix it” while he wasn’t looking. I had forgotten. I couldn’t sleep until I got up and had everything the way I wanted it. I remember thinking I was being really obsessive, but I didn’t care.
Children eventually cured me, but it took a long time to let go of some of those self-pleasing obsessions. I realized it made ME happy to have everything in perfect order. Nobody else even noticed most of the time—except when it caused me to be grumpy! Order is important, but not more important than your family—or your sanity!
We have to remember that there are times when having everything in order means that we have to sacrifice something or someone who is more important to make it happen. This is when we have to take a step back and reevaluate our thinking.
So now the socks go into a tall plastic laundry basket and when I catch someone with nothing to do, it becomes their job to match socks. We still “lose” some of them somehow, but it’s ok. I’ve learned not to make everyone miserable while I tear the house apart and blame everyone for “not caring.” I keep telling myself that one of these days I’m going to get rid of all our socks and buy everyone the exact same brand and color and then matching socks will be a breeze! But I’ll probably have to wait until everyone is wearing (near) the same size—which won’t be for a while.
In chapter 4, you indicate that quiet time is not necessary. I know you are talking about quiet, personal one-on-one time with God, but you have me worried. What about afternoon quiet time, when all the children rest quietly whether or not they need a nap? I know a lot of moms feel a need for some peaceful time to recharge during the day; are we being selfish?
No, we’re not being selfish to desire rest and a time to recharge. On top of that, studying the Bible and spending time with the Lord every day is crucial to our walk with Him. The problem comes when we think we must have a time of absolute peace and quiet without our children to accomplish this. We’re often told that we have to “take care of ourselves” or no one else will. There are days during the season of babies and toddlers when this type of “quiet time” may be nearly impossible. The season when a woman has grown or older children is going to look very different than the season when a woman has babies and toddlers.
I found that for me it was very frustrating for people to tell me that I “had” to have a time of solitude to keep my sanity or to have a good relationship with the Lord. Most days I could barely go to the bathroom without an audience, so how was I supposed to have a thirty minute “quiet time” of spiritual bliss with the Lord? I wound up resenting my husband and children and being full of self pity because, it seemed to me, God didn’t care how much I wanted to be with Him.
Then the Lord showed me I could have a “quiet time” with Him while the children played at my feet, or read quietly on the couch; it was so freeing to me. I didn’t need to shut myself away from them – in fact sometimes I would pull them into my study (or prayer time), depending on their age. Or I’d get them a snack and read my Bible at the counter.
And if you’re like me and you’re easily distracted, you can take advantage of nap time (or early bed time for the little ones) to do the deeper studying. Just remember that sometimes moms need naps too. Don’t sacrifice sleep trying to fit your “quiet time” into someone else’s mold. Get your sleep and learn to shape your quiet time the way God ordains for this season of your life!
Trust God to provide you with moments with Him throughout the day. In the book, I describe these times as “prayer droplets.” Put Scripture or small Bibles around your house in places where you’re likely to be sitting (the bathroom or the spot where you nurse the baby. By the way, my little ones are in bed by 7:30 p.m., so that gives me recharge time, as well as time alone with hubby.
Are you working on any other books right now?
Yes, I am helping my husband with a book that is yet to be announced.
Do you consider it a sin to disagree with your husband and voice that disagreement?
Absolutely not! We were not created to be robots. However, my husband knows that while I may disagree, and present all sorts of respectful arguments during a discussion, I am ultimately going to submit to his final decision in a matter. Sometimes those “disagreements” are just the helps our husbands need, when they’re done respectfully and with a spirit to help, not to “control” or simply be “right.” A helper isn’t a yes-(wo)man; a helper may challenge, research, and present various concepts that the husband hasn’t thought of.
Do you ever deal with “whitewashed feminism” in your own heart?
Yes, I do! I’m sure Jennie would agree she has to crucify her flesh in this area on a daily basis as well. We don’t picture some league of whitewashed feminists marching in to destroy the world; we need not look further than our own hearts.
Suffragist Elizabeth Cady Stanton was an example of a discontented housewife who was ruled by her flesh. In a letter to her close friend and fellow suffragist, Susan B. Anthony, Mrs. Stanton complained:
I pace up and down these two chambers of mine like a caged lion, longing to bring to a close childrearing and housekeeping cares. I have other work at hand…Oh how I long for a few hours of leisure each day. How rebellious it makes me feel when I see Henry going about where and how he pleases. He can walk at will through the whole wide world or shut himself up alone, if he pleases, within four walls. As I contrast his freedom with my bondage, and feel that because of the false position of women I have been compelled to hold all my noblest aspirations in abeyance in order to be a wife, a mother, a nurse, a cook, a household drudge, I am fired anew and long to pour fourth from my own experience the whole long story of women’s wrongs.
Mary Kelley, Woman’s Being, Woman’s Place. (Boston: G.K. Hall, 1979), pp. 240- 241.
Most women reading this book would not consider themselves feminists. Nonetheless, many of us still struggle with some of the same attitudes described by Mrs. Stanton. As much as we hate to admit it, as women, we all have feministic tendencies. It is part of our sin nature—the flesh we battle on a daily basis. (Passionate Housewives p. 132)
What if I decide to leave my child in a Mother’s Day Out program for a few hours every few weeks—does that mean I’m in sin?
No – that wasn’t the message I was conveying at all. I was admitting my own selfish motives when I had my son enrolled in a local mother’s day out program several times a week—and how God didn’t allow me to stay deceived. Not only was I looking for a “break” from my busy toddler, I was picturing all the time I would have for “real” ministry at my church. I wasn’t viewing my ministry to my family biblically—I saw it as a lesser ministry than “church ministry.”
I think for me, I knew “church ministry” would be easier—less stressful. I also wanted to do something that gave immediate satisfaction—I wanted to be recognized for doing a good job. Motherhood isn’t always like that. Sometimes there are no thank yous and no pats on the back. You have to be motivated by obedience and a desire to glorify God. Jesus has to be the reason you’re doing what you’re doing—He has to give you the strength you need—the passion—or you’ll run out of steam.
Now it’s your turn to weigh in: Have you heard of the book? Have you read it? (You can read the preface as a PDF here.) What did you think? What questions would you ask the authors? Stacy will be dropping in here to follow the comments.If you ask sweetly, she just might find time to answer a few more questions. You can also learn more about Stacy by visiting her blog, Your Sacred Calling. Be sure to read about her interview on Family Life Today Radio!Bonus: I’ll draw a winner from among the commentors on this post to win a free copy of Passionate Housewives! Be sure to include a valid email address when you comment. (Drawing has now been closed.) The winner is Sarah, comment #2.
See Jennie Chancey’s interview here.
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This is an excellent book; one I’ve read and loaned out, and need to read again. I tend to be detail-oriented, and the book really helped to refresh my spirit and let me step back to see the bigger picture. I’d LOVE another copy to give to an out-of-town friend who so needs it!
Hey! I haven’t read this book but I would LOVE to. I wish our public library carried it.
Please put my name in your drawing.
sruszkowski @ gmail . com
Thanks for the interview! I have been wanting to read this book, even though I’m not yet married. Reading the interview convinced me that this would be beneficial to me even now, as I serve the Lord as a single and pray that in His time He will give me a home of my own. Thank you so much, Kim!
I would love to receive a copy of this book! I’m a former “career’ woman turned into a homeschooling mom of 4 daughters and I am so thankful for this position in my life, although it does sometimes get frustrating
Thanks for the opportunity!
I’ll admit that when I first heard the title of this book I was concerned that the clever play on words was yet another cultural compromise. This interview puts all those concerns to the grave. Now I’m excited about being able to read this. Thanks for a chance to win this book, and thank you for taking the time to present its truth to us.
Hi! I haven’t left a comment in forever, but I thought I would here! I have been longing to read this book, but have been tied up financially for a while. I am hoping to finally order a copy soon, but I would love to be entered in the drawing with the hopes of winning. =) (I RARELY win anything). I have been struggling with some of these issues - mainly my high standards for myself an my home - for a while. I have a 21 month old and a baby due in June, and my husband is a full-time student and a full-time preacher. Sometimes I feel like I’m drowning, and I realize that I’m just at the beginning of this motherhood thing! Ah! Anyway - thanks for the post - it was great to read. (And please enter me in the drawing)
I have heard great things about this book! I was so blessed to be able to hear the authors on Family Life Today! I would love to read this!
Excellent book.
As a new wife, I think this would be a really great book to read. Please enter me in the drawing.
Also, I wanted to ask if you had seen these remarks of an obviously religious woman standing up for her morals against government schools. I have only been able to find them on this video not from her directly. I thought you might be interested. http://youtube.com/watch?v=1T_7s3×4JoQ Sorry, but I don’t know how to send it to you other than as a comment.
I’ve heard a LOT about this book, but haven’t read it yet. Don’t enter me in your drawing though, as my awesome husband just bought this book for me lol. As soon as I’m done reading Heart and Hands, I plan on digging into this book!
This book has been on my “must-buy” list ever since it came out. I haven’t had room in my budget to buy it yet, but if I don’t win it here, I hope to pick up a copy soon!
As a former feminist-turned housewife, I really am excited about this book!
I would be grateful if you would enter me in the draw for the book. I have read and benefitted immensely from Fascinating Womanhood in my marriage and this looks like the equivalent for parenting with joy and mindfulness.
I’m a homeschooling Mummy of four little ones, so far…..
Thank you.
I’ve seen this book around online a lot, and the title really grabbed my attention. Thank you for posting this interview. I would love to read it. If I don’t win it here, I think it will be on my birthday list!
Her answer about quiet times really struck me–I’ve struggled with guilt over not having set “alone” time with God early in the morning like everyone says you must since my son was born, and I was overwhelmed at the thought of how I would keep it going with a new baby due in June.
needanap2 [at] gmail . com
I would love to read this book, I don’t have it and haven’t read it.
More advice on “letting go” of perfectionism??
It sounds like a great book.
I can’t wait to read this book! I’ve been wanting it for a while now, and never seem to remember to carve a few dollars out of the budget for it.
I also wish our library had this book. Your interview makes me even more anxious to read it.
This sounds like a refreshing dose of reality! I’d love to read it, too. It looks like they work hard to expose the deceptive and fleshly trends even Christian mothers follow, with truth. What could be better?
I have seen this book on a few different websites, and after reading this review am looking forward to reading it. I am always looking for encouraging books and resources that will help me to be a better mom and wife. I read your blog often and am so thankful for the wisdom and insight that you share.
Put me in the drawing! I would love the book so I can further my studies in homemaking and such!
yoshi3329 at yahoo.com
I, too, wish this book were available in our local library! I had never heard of this book but your interview only sparks my interests. I mean, we all need some encouraging once in a while…I just seem to need it more often than others=) I will have to speak with my husband about my upcoming birthday.
Our library refused to order the book… : (
I would love to get it.
Thank you for doing the interview Mrs. McDonald and thanks for the having the drawing KimC.
: )
I have got to admit I didn’t think I needed to read this book until reading this interview. Mrs. Mc Donald clearly has some excellent wisdom that appies even to an “already happy houswife!”
Please enter me in the drawing:)
Thank you,
Suzanne
Wow, I really enjoyed this interview. I have been blessed by both Stacy McDonald and Jennie Chancey’s writing in the past, but I thought maybe this book would be full of stuff I “already know;-)). I see now that it would really be worth the read. Thanks, Kim!
Hi Kim,
I am so glad to read (earlier in the week) that your back is feeling better. And I’m thrilled that it is feeling well enough to share this interview with us!
I have long been a fan of both Jennie and Stacy. Their writings have blessed me so much (LAF, HST magazine, books and forwards to books, etc.) I am blessed beyond measure to be able to say that they have been Titus 2 women in my life.
Thanks so much for sharing these questions and answers with us!
With love in Christ,
Sarah
I have heard of the book but not read it. But I was literally nodding my head about the quiet time question. I finally figured this out, but I could never put it into words as well as she did. I REALLY wish someone had told me this before! I spent so much time upset and frustrated because I couldn’t get “quiet time” or “solitude” every day, and when I finally just accepted it things got so much better. The church I grew up in was adamant about quiet time–and it is a good thing, absolutely, but we need to manage our expectations when our children are little.
Now I’m really anxious to read the rest of the book!
I have three little boys - 3 years, 21 months, and 2 months old. I think I reeeally need to read this book! I have heard of it, since it first came out, and I have read the preface. I have struggled so far as a mother, always feeling desperate for “me time”, and I know I can’t continue like that. I have had my eye on this book as something that could really help me to change my perspective and the way I am thinking and reacting to my situation. I want nothing more than to be a SAHM to my children, however many I am given - this has been what I’ve always wanted! I just need more grace somehow and less selfishness. I need to spend more time with God, but I think I also need to get behind what this book is about and put it into practise.
I am another whose budget will not stretch to buying the book as yet, so I would love to be entered in the draw! Thank you!
Hi, I’ve been wanting this book for some time, so please enter me in the drawing.
The comments about daily quiet time with young children really cemented my desire to read this book. I have five children under 9 and number six is on the way. Some days I barely get time to brush my teeth! I really need this book!
I need this book! As a stay-at-home wife and mom, my deepest desire is to be the best wife, mom, and homemaker I can be and to live a life that pleases God. I long to find satisfaction all areas, even in my least favorite chore of folding laundry. Where I live there are not a lot of “Passionate Housewives, Desperate for God”, so I have turned to the internet to find like-minded Christian women to learn from and be encouraged by. This book would be such a joy to me.
I would LOVE this book! PLEASE, pick me!!
Thanks for the interview. Its neat to see the hearts behind the pages. Now, I want to read it that much more. Please enter me in your drawing.
I would *love* to win a copy of this book! I keep reading about it, and think it would be a great one to share with other women once I’ve read it.
Amy
I have been wanting this book too since I first saw it come out, and even more so now after reading this.
Please enter my name also.
“Pick me! Pick me!”
Oh, I would just loooove this book! Thanks for the interview; it certainly made me more interested in the book. (If that was possible.)
I have wanted to read a copy of this book since I first heard about it. In the last year or so I have been on a journey our of feminist thinking and into God’s will , and I am so happy about it. From the sound of this book I not only want a copy for myself, but one for every woman I know.
Thank you for this interview!!! I have already read the book and passed it on to my sister. I feel that all Christian women need to read this book and be challenged.
His,
Mrs. U
This book should be a standard gift for every bride-to-be, mom-to-be and momm-y! It is a treasure! I was so blessed by it that just recently when Vision Forum had it’s big sale I purchased two more copies so I would have them on hand to give as gifts.
As Providence would have it, a friend of mine is really struggling in her marriage right now and I plan on sending her a copy to help encourage her.
It was so refreshing, encouraging and challenging that I’m fixin’ to read it again. I know I sound like some sort of paid advertisement (which I am not), but this book just really touched me.
Blessings!
(Please DO NOT enter me in the drawing, I would rather someone who’s never read it have a chance - thanks!)
I’m in the trenches, and could really benefit from a free copy of this book
! I can’t wait to read it.
I have heard of this book and truly want to get it. I have been wanting to read this book.
I think I am in need of reading this book. I am in desperate need of encouragement on the home from.
Please enter me in the drawing.
Thanks
Cindy
Reading some of her answers was almost a parallel to my life! I’ve done things similar to her husband’s underwear drawer. Even told my husband he didn’t care when his dirty clothes didn’t all make it to the hamper. I could soooo use this book! Between homeschooling, adopting, and haveing to foreign exchange students, some days make me just want to RUN! Or rather hide. =) Please please please enter me for the book.
Me, me, pick me!
jonash04@sbcglobal.net
I forgot my question for Stacy.
Stacy, I am a sahm with what somedays feels like there really aren’t enough hours in my day. My dh is great, he truly is. He helps out a lot with anything that’s needed. One of the things he often does is ask me to take time for myself. Do you take it? He wants me to have time alone (I prefer being with my family) or he’ll tell the kids to all go in the other room so I can sit and watch a tv show. This isn’t an everyday thing of course, but do you put this in the category of quiet time, or is this just something simply wonderful my dh does for me from time to time? Is this the same kind of “me-time” you’re referring to?
THank you for your coverage on this book!!!! I have heard about it but have not read it. Our sixth child was born on Feb. 11th ( a baby boy ) 12 ibs 2 oz with our midwife. I also homeschool our children 11,8,6,5,3, and the new baby. I am 41 years old. I have four daughters 11,8,5,3. I have made a deliberate effort to teach my girls to love the Lord and his Word. I have read Created to be His Helpmeet and have enjoyed it . I want my girls to love their husbands and families . I want them to know that by being at home with their children and caring for their husbands and homes is a high calling . Thank you.
Becky Ward
I have read about this book all over, but I haven’t read it myself. I would love to win a copy to read and share. Thanks!
Thanks for the give-away! We had the opportunity to meet the McDonalds on a few occasions when we both lived in TX and they are an absolutely delightful and encouraging family. We have not read this book, but enjoyed Maidens and From Dawn to Dusk.
I’m a SAHM who is also a WAHM, doing medical transcription. I do most of my work in the night/early morning hours while kids are asleep. While I am very, very grateful to earn some $$ and not have to leave my family, it’s a tough balancing act. I have 3 kids who are 18, 10, and almost 2. And no, it was not OUR plan to spread them out like that!
I have heard of Stacy and Jennie’s book and wonder if it would help somebody like me. I often get little sleep and have a lot of stress, and I definitely have the “why am I doing this again?” days.
Please enter my name — I’d love to read it!
This was so encouraging to read. Thank you!
I would LOVE to read this book! Please enter my name in the drawing.
I do the same thing with my “quiet times” and love that I can set that example for my toddler daughter.
I was finally able to start being a SAHM in August, and I love it! I finally feel like I’m doing what God wants me to do.
Blessings,
Michele
Two comments: First, I’d like to encourage the mothers who are still in their early years. I have never experienced such intense spiritual growth as I did in those years of pure sacrifice. Now that several of my nine children (1-18 years) are older and so helpful, I wish that my current spiritual growth was as great. You may not feel or see the growth now because you are too busy, but you will look back and see huge gains in maturity. Second, I would like to pass on some advice I received from my pastor in those years. He suggested that after reading simple Bible stories to my little ones, to take time later while doing an otherwise mindless chore–maybe while washing dishes–to meditate on the meat of the children’s story. This way, no matter what happens during the course of the day, I’ve had some time with Scripture and meditation. Pray ceaselessly.
I’ve heard a lot about this book and would love to win a copy! Thanks for the chance to win it!
I would LOVE to read this book! Thank you for the chance to win it! I could borrow it from another lady at church but I am a highlighter lover. If I can’t underline or hightlight all the paragraphs that I love while I read I feel I am losing something in the whole reading experience.
I have not read this book yet; though I would LOVE to. I think it is just the thing that wives and mothers need to hear and be encouraged by! Please include me in the drawing.
i am leaving a comment becuz i would love to win a book! i really enjoyed your interview and learned a little bit more about the author. thanks!
I would love to read this book. Thanks for the informative interview.
I have the book….. and I LOVE the book. My four kiddos are now 7 to 15 yrs old. I learned a lot about how sacrifice to ones own family grows you in the Lord. As a former career woman, I can also attest to the greater fulfilment of raising a family. This IS my career now…. and the Lord is constantly pruning me through them!
Thanks for writing the book!
If you choose me for the book–I won’t be keeping it! I already purchased a copy!
I’ll be giving it away to a friend who has been curious about “the way I do things” in my home. She is a working mother-Christian-who is interested in hearing about why I stay home, why I homeschool etc…
Wow, what a great response!!!!! I have been meaning to tell you I got my book a couple of weeks ago, but I opted to put off starting it till my friend got hers and we’d read it together. I started it the other night……and I can’t wait to read farther!!!!!!
I always knew the book would create a huge response, in women who love their homes and in women who have swallowed the lie of the enemy hook, line and sinker! I think the Lord will use the book to soften and convict hearts of those moms who are ready to listen to His urgings, and in the ones who are entrenched, I think it will serve to convict them as well.
As far as you flying out to that getaway, if it were me, my husband would be saying an absolute no! Unless he went with me. There are too many things that could happen to a woman, a mom of 6 kids, who travels alone, and since he says I’m the center of the home, he wouldn’t be comfortable with me flying somewhere by myself. But he’d be okay if I was going with a friend.
Just thought I’d weigh in!!!
Leanne in Longview
I would love to read more about letting go of things….like the socks….and everything else that screams for attention and doesn’t need it.
Pick me!
I look forward to reading the book.
May God be glorified!
Mrs. Klause
mrs_klause@yahoo.com
HI,
I’d love to win a copy of this book.
Thanks,
Wilma
I would be delighted to be able read this book!
I’ve been wanting to buy this book ,but this is actually the first I’ve read anything specific about it!
!’ve never commented on your blog, Kim, but I found it about a year ago, and it’s been such a breath of fresh air!
Thank you.
Thank you so much for doing and posting this interview!! This sounds like a book that I would really enjoy reading!! I am a SAHM of a almost 8 month old and not too many months ago I was really struggling with some of the questions you covered in the interview =)
kimberly
I have been reading your blog for about a year now. I think. The first time I visited your website your kids had just created “A Child’s Story” (the first film.) I was intrigued by this family whose children had some understanding of such emotionally involved, troublesome themes. I wish I could visit your household for a day just to see how different it is from my own. From what I read your children are creative, compassionate, fun, responsilble, avid readers, and can cook better than me (and I am 35.) I really relate to your sense of humor. You don’t know me, but I know you. Isn’t THAT weird? Well I don’t KNOW know you. I just “think” I know you. Bottom line- I like your neato girls and your adorable Who-wouldn’t-love-that-face Boy, and the way your husband defends you, and how wonderfully you describe everyday things. I also appreciate your new year’s resolutions especially how you wish to show more gentleness with your children. I don’t know why I’m telling you all this now, I guess I want a chance to win a good book.
Silent No More, now you know.
Stay at home mom for the last 10 years
Three children:10, 7, and 5 years
My husband studies theology like you’ve never seen anyone study theology. He’s got the “catagories” and the passion.
Question: How do you foster a more loving, respectful relationship between siblings who have alot of conflict?
Do I still have a chance to win a book? Take care Kim.
I have not read this book but I have heard many good things about it. I too just looked for it at our library….sigh…nope. I would love to own a copy to read and re-read!
Blessings!
Karen
I cannot wait to read this book. My daughter and I really enjoyed and were convicted in so many areas with Stacey’s book, “Raising Maidens of Virtue.” I love reading your blog - we are raising 6 maidens ourselves.
Blessings,
Michelle
I have not read this book, but it is on my birthday wish list for my husband to view and hopefully get for me. I really appreciate the opportunity to get this, and if I did win, I would like to be able to read it and pass it along to someone else if that is okay with you?
Hi Ladies,
I have been wanting to come over here and join in the discussion, but have had a few personal issues to deal with. So I pray you’ll forgive my tardiness and bear with me as I read through all the comments! I can’t tell you how thrilled we are to see that God is using Passionate Housewives for His glory!
Lisa said, “I’m a SAHM who is also a WAHM, doing medical transcription. I do most of my work in the night/early morning hours while kids are asleep. While I am very, very grateful to earn some $$ and not have to leave my family, it’s a tough balancing act. I have 3 kids who are 18, 10, and almost 2. And no, it was not OUR plan to spread them out like that!
I have heard of Stacy and Jennie’s book and wonder if it would help somebody like me. I often get little sleep and have a lot of stress, and I definitely have the “why am I doing this again?” days.”
Lisa, you are definitely one of the women we had in mind when we wrote this book. You certainly have your hands full! Praise God for your faithful commitment to stay home with your children! Would it be possible for your 18 yo to help you with some of the transcription work? Sometimes involving older children in home business work can be very educational, as well as help relieve the workload for mom.
Please know that what you’re doing is making a difference! Keep up the good work!
Jeri said: “Stacy, I am a sahm with what somedays feels like there really aren’t enough hours in my day. My dh is great, he truly is. He helps out a lot with anything that’s needed. One of the things he often does is ask me to take time for myself. Do you take it? He wants me to have time alone (I prefer being with my family) or he’ll tell the kids to all go in the other room so I can sit and watch a tv show. This isn’t an everyday thing of course, but do you put this in the category of quiet time, or is this just something simply wonderful my dh does for me from time to time? Is this the same kind of “me-time” you’re referring to?”
Hi Jeri - we weren’t saying women should never take the opportunity to have time to their selves, when it’s offered, or that they should avoid ever doing anything alone. God-given rest and relaxation is a precious gift and shouldn’t be shunned.
What Jennie and I were saying is that we women can’t CHASE after me-time. We can’t think that we NEED to have it or we’re going to die.
We need to trust that God will give us the rest we need and we should view times of weariness as times of sacrifice to the Lord and pray for Him to “give” us what we need.
If your husband offers you times of rest, gratefully accept it. However, if he is, with good intentions, offering you something that is not really restful or helpful (watching t.v. alone in another room), then I would be honest with him. Perhaps you could say, “Honey, thank you for taking such good care of me. I really appreciate that you’re looking out for my best interest, but if you could get up with the children on Saturdays and let me sleep in that would actually be more helpful.”
That was just an example…perhaps a few hours of quiet to study, pray, and rest in the Lord would be more fruitful for you. The point is, feel free to make your preferences known to your husband, so that he can be used of God to help you.
My husband used to get the little ones ready for bed for me while I took a bubble bath and had some “down time.” After my bath, I was able to gather my little ones, pray, and sing with them and tuck them in. They had already been bathed, read to, and prayed for by Daddy. It was a wonderful help to me at the time, and I felt rested and ready to spend quality time with my honey after the kids were in bed.
Things look different now. For one thing, I don’t like to take baths anymore - we now live in the country and the smell of well water (even with essential oils) is not exactly…relaxing. LOL!!!
Anyway, if hubby is wanting to give you some rest, then praise God for His provision! And use it wisely!
“I have been struggling with some of these issues - mainly my high standards for myself and my home - for a while. I have a 21 month old and a baby due in June, and my husband is a full-time student and a full-time preacher. Sometimes I feel like I’m drowning, and I realize that I’m just at the beginning of this motherhood thing!”
Sweet Tiffany - you are at the beginning of an exciting (though sometimes tiring) adventure! You are in what Jennie calls “mommy boot camp!” Most people with large families agree that the most difficult time is when you have 2 or 3 little ones at home. As they grow, and if they are properly trained, they become little helpers! Persevere! It’s all worth it!
Thanks! I would love this book! I have been wanting to read it for quite some time!
“I’d like to encourage the mothers who are still in their early years. I have never experienced such intense spiritual growth as I did in those years of pure sacrifice. Now that several of my nine children (1-18 years) are older and so helpful, I wish that my current spiritual growth was as great. You may not feel or see the growth now because you are too busy, but you will look back and see huge gains in maturity.”
Annie, thank you for this reminder!! This is sooo true ladies. Read it and memorize it.
Great advice!
OK–take me out of the runnings for this book, please. I just ordered my own copy on Amazon.com today (finally!!). Can’t wait to read it! Good luck to the winner.
I don’t have this book but would love to! Please put me in the drawing. Thank you!!
By the way, I read your blog all the time and love it!
I am seeing this book everywhere (except here - Guatemala). Would love to read it.
Your blog looks great - I’ll stop in often :o)
I am a fairly new reader of your blog, but I am greatly enjoying it. I’d love to be in the running for this book
thanks.
I haven’t read the book, yet. I really want to, though. I have it on my list at Paperback swap, but it’s going to be awhile before I get one. From what I have heard about the book, I will most likely be getting one to give my daughter who is getting married in July. Sure would be nice to win one.
I am really not a reader but I am trying to become one. I know there are a lot of books out there like this one that could really make my christian walk much richer. If I do not win the book, I plan to buy it soon. Hopefully I will learn to love to read.
Thank you!
I have heard great things about this book, but have not had an opportunity to read it. I think it would be so helpful to me! Thanks so much:)
Hello! I have read the book - AMAZING!! I would love to win a copy as I have given mine away and have a line of others who are asking for it. Thanks so much for the interview! Well done.
Anna
You can take my name out of the pot—I just went and bought the book for myself! My local bookstore did not carry it but they heard me talking about it a few weeks ago and they ordered a copy, so it was there on the shelf waiting for me!
My (sort of a) question for Stacy is: I am 36 years old and have been married for 13 years and I feel like I am a pioneer in this “Passionate Housewives Desperate for God” lifestyle. When I was a kid, all moms I knew, including my own, stayed home. But they were watching soap operas and reading romance novels in addition to cooking and cleaning. They kind of just turned us kids out of doors and let us fend for ourselves.
It has always been important to my husband and me for me to stay home and tend to home. I stayed home before we even had a child. Our home runs more smoothly this way. My parents were great but I feel like I have been a better parent, just as they were probably better parents than theirs. Now that my son is older and in school, I am floundering! I have no encouragement and support from friends, family or church to be a passionate housewife! My husband does support me, however.
Am I too old for this? Am I too alone? I feel like I am just starting out and I want this journey to be an exciting one for my family but I feel very isolated. I guess I should mention that I have been a born-again Christian for just 8 years. If you can make sense out of all this, I would appreciate some words of encouragement. jThank you!
I cannot wait until I am able to read a copy of this book! I am a SAHM to 6 children ages 3-16, and sometimes the big picture gets lost in the day to day grind.
I know in only a couple years, all of my children will be in school. I only know a few SAHM’s and once their children are school age, I am sure they will be back at work like everyone else.
I don’t want my kids to be latchkey like I was, there are just too many dangers added since the 80’s. I like to be able to be home and attend to the special touches. Homeschooling is just not for our family, we tried it. Lacking support there, too. Well, enough rambling….I would LOVE to win a copy of the book!! Please add me to the giveaway. Thanks so much!
Jenn
Thank you for the interview about the book. I would like to read it.
Here is the link to an article on seeing the family as a ministry, instead of thinking ministry is done “out there.”
“This Women in Ministry Thing” by Audrey Broggi
http://www.mfth.org/publication.html?ID=126&pagename=mfthjournal&a=77091851
Sounds like it is a book I need to read!
Thanks!
:o) Rachel
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I would love to read this book. Istill struggle sometimes
will feminist indoctrination from my public school education. I would read and pass it on. Please eneter me!