Christians Do It Better

By Alisa Miller

In this busy world, it is easy to get caught up in the daily grind and forget about yourself and your relationships. Learn how to simplify your life, create time for others, and nurture your relationships for a more fulfilling and less stressful life. The ideas below will get you started down the right path, whether it’s by freeing up your time, reducing the amount of stuff you have, or focusing on the important people in your life.

Free Up Your Time

The following list will help you find ways to free your time ranging from identifying important values to reducing the amount of yard work you have to do.

1. Make a list of goals. Prioritize and focus on one or two of the goals at a time. Spreading yourself thin is less productive and will not accomplish your goals as quickly.
2. Identify important values. Make a list of what is really important to you and decide what aspects of you life should require the most attention and which areas you should start giving less attention.
3. Say no. It’s okay not to agree to every social or volunteer opportunity that comes your way. Learn to say no so that you have more time for yourself and the people in your life.
4. Be efficient. Set up a schedule for your life so that you have a set time for chores, errands, and such. Marking out a set time for the essentials will leave you with more time for other things.
5. Reduce subscriptions. Think about the magazine and email subscriptions you have right now. Do you read all of them–or enjoy the time you spend reading them? If not, cut out the ones that take up your time.
6. Join less. Don’t keep joining organizations or groups that you aren’t enjoying or aren’t contributing to your life in a significant way. Quit the ones in which you aren’t actively involved.
7. Use auto pay. Sign up for auto pay for your bills and you won’t have to worry about sitting down to pay them all–and you won’t ever be late paying them.
8. Keep news to a minimum. If you are constantly checking the news sites, read more than one newspaper a day, or can’t turn off the TV news, then try reducing your news each day. Drop to one news source and check it one time a day.
9. Manage housework. Do laundry just once a week, hire a housekeeper, or ask for help from others living with you so that housework doesn’t take all your time. Also, doing small bits here and there can feel more manageable than having to devote several hours of your free time to cleaning.
10. Downsize your home. Many people will fill up whatever size house they are living in. Consider moving to a smaller house and eliminating some of your stuff. You will have less to clean, less maintenance, more time for living, and you may even save money.
11. Simplify dinner. Plan your meals for the week and buy the materials in advance so that when you arrive home from work, you can go straight to what you need to do for dinner. The time saved in wondering what to cook and tracking down the ingredients will add up quickly.
12. Minimize yard work. Xeriscaping and using organic lawn care products will greatly reduce the amount of time you spend maintaining your yard.

Manage Work Time

Almost everyone has to work and it takes up a huge amount of your day, so learn how you can manage your work time to free up time for other things in life.

13. Work a shorter day. If it’s okay with your boss, go in a little later or leave a little earlier. If you are productive at work and getting everything done in less time, then take advantage of the opportunity to work fewer hours.
14. Work through lunch. If you can’t work fewer hours, maybe you can work through lunch and leave an hour earlier. Pack a lunch and eat at your desk, then take advantage of leaving before commuter traffic starts and have an extra hour each day for the important things in your life.
15. Take a longer lunch. If you really need that time away in the middle of the day, then consider taking a longer lunch (if your boss agrees). Use the extra time to run errands or read a book.
16. Quit multitasking. For years multitasking has been a huge buzzword in the workplace. Studies now show that multitasking is less efficient than focusing on one task at a time.
17. Live near work. Add up your commute time each week and think about what you could do with that extra time. Move closer to work and you will not only have more time, but you will also eliminate the stress of the commute.
18. Use your commute wisely. If you have to commute, use the time doing something constructive. If you drive, listen to a podcast or an audio book. If you ride public transportation, then read a book or use the time for quiet meditation.
19. Reduce stress. If work has you stressed, this will leave you feeling tired and drained at the end of the day. Reduce your stress so you have time to enjoy life on the weekends and after work.
20. Check email a voice mail during work hours only. Constantly checking in with your work means you are not leaving it behind after hours.
21. Consider a career change. Because work is such a big part of your life, you should take a look at how your job is affecting your personal time. If your hours are unmanageable, the environment is unbearable, or you are just very unhappy, then consider a career change that will leave you feeling more fulfilled.
22. Don’t let work always come first. Even if you love your job, you need to let other parts of your life have your attention too. Leave work behind and let those important to you know that they hold as much a place in your life as work.

Manage Technology

While technology can undeniably make life easier, it can also drain your time. Learn how to use technology wisely, yet walk away from it so you can spend time with people instead of things.

23. Fewer communication tools. Four phones, two IM accounts, Twitter, a fax, and three email addresses may be too many. Reduce the number of ways you stay connected and you may discover you have more time for the important people and activities in your life.
24. Less TV. Turn off the TV after the specific shows you want to watch are over. Better yet, don’t turn on the TV at all. You may discover you enjoy taking a walk after dinner with your friend much more than watching TV.
25. Less web surfing. Many people use the Internet as a boredom cure or are just too accustomed to spending their time on the computer. Learn to manage your computer time or just walk away from your computer and find something to do with a friend instead.
26. Manage email. If you spend all day chained to your email, you may need to learn how to manage your addiction. Try just checking email two times a day for a while and see how much extra time you create.
27. Fewer online groups. If you are in forums, on listservs, and participating in several social networking sites, then you may want to consider reducing the number of your online groups and spend that time with people face-to-face.
28. Play fewer games. Video games can be a huge drain on your time. Give yourself a set amount of time you can play, then walk away. Setting a timer will help you stay on track.
29. Reduce RSS feeds. If keeping up with your feeds is stressing you, cut out the ones you don’t need and learn to read your feeds with less stress.
30. Leave the laptop behind. The convenience of a laptop is also the downfall of your free time. Become more involved with your life by shutting the laptop and joining in with your friends and family.
31. Don’t follow trends. Feeling like you always need the latest and greatest technology device is not only expensive, but wasteful for the environment and your time. If your cell phone works fine, don’t upgrade as soon as the newest version comes out. Wait until you really need a new one to upgrade.
32. Become aware of technology in your life. Spend one whole day without technology every now and then so you can realize the place technology has taken in your life. Realizing your dependence and knowing how to live without it can give you the ability for you to walk away when necessary.

Have Less Stuff

In this consumer-driven society, it can be very difficult to manage all the stuff in life. These suggestions will help you clear clutter, buy less, and learn how to look at advertisements.

33. Clear clutter. Give away the things you aren’t using anymore and recycle the old papers cluttering your life.
34. Clean out your wallet or purse. Get rid of that extra stuff you are carrying around and not using. Better yet, see if you can get by with a smaller version of what you are currently using.
35. Track expenses. Follow your spending habits for one or two months and see exactly where your money goes. Decide where you can cut back and where you are spending too freely.
36. Change buying habits. Learn to buy less and only buy what you need. Impulse buying fills your life with more stuff and drains your bank account.
37. Delay non-essential purchases. Give yourself an amount, whether it is $20 or $200, and any purchase over that amount must go on a waiting list for 30 days. After that time, if you still feel like you need the item, then buy it.
38. Stop receiving junk mail. Read this article for plenty of tips on reducing the junk coming in to your life.
39. Get rid of big stuff. If you are renting a storage unit for all your extra stuff or have big items like furniture or old appliances sitting around, think about whether you really need it all. Get rid of what you don’t need.
40. Clear out clothes. Look through your closets and think about what is hanging there. If you haven’t worn something in at least a year, then get it out of your closet and donate it to someone who can be using it.
41. Consider going no-car. It would be a big change, but see if you could live without a car. Reducing the cost of the car payment, fuel, insurance, and maintenance would reduce your stress and help your wallet and the environment.
42. Manage your papers. From mail to flyers to your children’s school work, paper can begin to pile up easily. Find a system to manage your paperwork so it doesn’t take over your life.
43. Organize your stuff. Having a set spot for your things reduces the amount of time you spend looking for items and keeps your home clean. Imagine never having to look for your keys again because they are always hanging in the same place.
44. Become immune to ads. Lots of people earn good money to create advertisements that make you want to buy stuff. Learn to look at advertisements for what they are and you will be less likely to buy unnecessary items.
45. Buy for the long term. If you have a choice between one item that costs less and will not last long and another item that costs a bit more but will last considerably longer, go for the second option. You will save money and time spent shopping, plus you will have less unusable stuff cluttering your house.

Make Time for Yourself

You will be no good to yourself or those important to you if you don’t take care of yourself. Follow these tips for making time for the things you enjoy in life.

46. Give yourself 10 minutes. Set aside 10 minutes every day that is just yours. Take a walk, read, or meditate–anything that gives you a little boost and some time of your own.
47. Take a vacation. Go someplace to relax and recharge yourself. Make sure you do this at least once every year.
48. Be alone. Learning to spend some time alone and in quiet gives you a chance to think through problems, consider what is important to you, and also gives you some important time to decompress from the day-to-day grind.
49. Wake up earlier. Give yourself an extra half hour in the morning before you start your day and you will discover you have time for some of the things you enjoy doing, whether it be reading the news, enjoying a peaceful cup of tea, or going for a run.
50. Enjoy nature. Whether you live in the city or the countryside, take some time to find a peaceful spot in a park, by a creek, or anywhere you can spend a few minutes appreciating the world around you.
51. Be creative. Find a way to spend time being creative by taking up a hobby such as drawing, knitting, dancing, skateboarding, or writing. Even if you don’t consider yourself a creative person, you may discover that with a little practice, you can tap into a whole new world of creativity.
52. Do nothing. In this busy world, it is easy to forget how to appreciate doing less. Learn how to slow yourself down and appreciate doing nothing for a while.
53. Buy season tickets. Whether baseball or opera is your thing, buy season tickets to what you love and you’ll be motivated to take that time for yourself during each event or performance.
54. Give up perfection. For those perfectionists, it can be difficult to let things go before they are exactly as they "should be." Don’t worry about perfect, just obtain good enough and find the time and freedom for other things in life.
55. Realize you aren’t the only capable one. Maybe you are the most capable person in your office or at home, but that doesn’t mean you are the only one who has to do the tasks at hand. Let some things go to other people–they will learn more and you will have more time.

Make Time for Others

Making time for others opens the door for strong relationships. Find out how to keep your relationships on track without sending yourself into overtime.

56. Choose who. Make conscious choices about the people with whom you spend time. Give less of your time and attention to those who are an emotional or monetary drain on you and spend that extra time with the people who matter.
57. Set dates. Don’t leave your friends with some nebulous "see you soon." Set a firm date for lunch, dinner, or a movie so you are sure to stay in touch with those who are important to you.
58. Keep your dates. Once you’ve set those dates, show up. If you are constantly breaking your dates with friends, they will stop making an effort to see you.
59. Create a network of friends. Introducing friends from your varying social circles will keep you involved with several friends at the same time and widen your social network as they create new friendships too.
60. Remain open to new friendships. Because you are happy with your current friends doesn’t mean you should stop trying to find new friends. As your life grows and evolves, you will want friendships that reflect those changes.
61. Connect with old friends. Don’t forget about those old friends who have been in your life for years. Just because you are no longer as close doesn’t mean your friendship is worth any less.
62. Do necessary activities together. If you are feeling pinched for time yet long to see your buddy, try combining elements like exercising together or running errands that you both need to accomplish.
63. Stay in contact. Even if you haven’t had a chance to get together recently, send a quick email or text message to let your friend know you are thinking about him.
64. Share a meal. You all have to eat, so why not do so together? Make plans for a regular breakfast, lunch, or dinner on a regular basis.
65. Remember important dates. Write birthdays on a calendar and keep track of any other important dates too. Remembering that October 16 was the day your friend lost his brother, you can be there for support whether he asks for it or not.

Appreciate Those in Your Life

Spending positive energy on those in your life provides strong relationships and takes much less energy than constantly having to make up for lost ground. Follow these suggestions for sharing the love.

66. Listen. Being a good listener is one of the most important gifts you can give to those in your life. Be truly interested in what they have to say, ask questions about their lives and feelings, and show you were listening by referencing what they had to say.
67. Substitute aggressive for assertive. Aggressive friends will put their own needs first and do whatever is necessary to make sure things go their way. This behavior will isolate you from your friends. Instead, learn to let your feelings and desires be known in a more flexible manner and accept that everything won’t always be just the way you want it to.
68. Be honest. Your friends and family deserve your honesty. From letting your sister know about the spinach in her teeth to telling your best friend that you don’t really care for mall walking as much as she does, don’t hide behind a lie for fear of hurting the friendship.
69. Laugh together. Spending quality time together in an environment that lets you kick back and laugh will strengthen your bond.
70. Swallow your pride. Whether you feel slighted by something your brother said or did or you have just lost touch with a friend over time, reaching out and talking about what happened shows you care.
71. Know how to apologize. Learn how to say you are sorry. When you have a fight or misunderstanding, admit that you played a part in what happened and that you want to make it right.
72. See their perspective. Finding empathy with others and seeing life from their perspective demonstrates to your friends that you care enough to try to understand their point of view.
73. Don’t betray a trust. If your friend has entrusted an important piece of information about herself, under no circumstances should you use that information against her or tell others what she held privately.
74. Accept others for who they are. No one is perfect and no friend will be perfect either. If your friend has one or two annoying qualities among a whole host of really great ones, then let the little things go.
75. Give praise. From a high five to a hug, letting those important to you know when they have done a good job is a great way to build your relationship.

Change Your Perspective

Sometimes all you need to do to find more time and energy is just get a shift in the way you look at things. These tips will help you take a brand new look at your life.

76. Find your calm. If you are flying off into a rage at the smallest provocation, you probably need to learn how to find your inner calmness. Not only will you feel better, but you will probably find you are not isolating those around you either.
77. Live deliberately. Become more aware of how you are living and the choices you make for your life. Slowing down, making conscious decisions, and not letting life happen to you will help you to both simplify and appreciate life more.
78. Think positively. The way you think about a situation has a powerful effect on its outcome. Learning to think positively will have effects on your quality of life as well as on your relationships.
79. Find the good in everyone. No person is all bad or all good. Learn to appreciate the good in everyone, especially if they are people you have a hard time feeling good about.
80. Know yourself. Take the time to really look at your values and beliefs. If you have been living a life less than what you believe in, then you have been spending wasted energy and time pursuing something false.
81. Find your passion. If you haven’t already, find your passion. Whether your passion becomes a new job or just a new hobby find what makes you so happy you can throw yourself into it.
82. Accept what you have. Some things in life are fundamentally unchangeable. If you have blue eyes, you can wear brown contacts, but your eyes are still blue. Accept the things you have in life and learn to appreciate what makes you the unique person you are.
83. Appreciate the small things. From a beautiful wildflower growing against a busy street curb to the kindness of a stranger, learning to appreciate the small things in life opens you up to the simplicity of joy every day.
84. Recognize and overcome fear. Learn to spot what fear looks like in yourself. Sometimes people spend so much energy avoiding things in life because they fear what may happen that they waste valuable time and energy for nothing.
85. Cheer yourself up. When life turns sour, find ways to bring yourself out of the slump. Life is too short for spending it in the doldrums.

Books for Inspiration

From learning how others simplified their lives and strengthened their relationships to finding out how to live a balanced life, these books will truly inspire you.

86. Walden. This classic by Henry David Thoreau is the ultimate inspiration for finding and embracing the simplicity in life.
87. Simplify Your Life: 100 Ways to Slow Down and Enjoy the Things That Really Matter . Written by Elaine St. James, this is one of the most popular books for simplifying and finding your happiness.
88. The Simple Living Guide: A Sourcebook for Less Stressful, More Joyful Living. By Janet Luhrs, this book reminds the reader that simplicity is not just about money, but about life.
89. Choosing Simplicity: Real People Finding Peace and Fulfillment in a Complex World. Linda Breen Pierce brings stories from regular people who describe their journey to living simply and finding fulfillment.
90. Living in Balance: A Dynamic Approach for Creating Harmony & Wholeness in a Chaotic World. Joel and Michelle Levey wrote this book, which is currently out of print, that helps you find the balance in your life and create a better way of living. Check your library or a used book store for this one.

Sites for Inspiration

For a daily dose of inspiration, check out these websites that are sure to give you plenty to think about.

91. Unclutterer. Get organized and manage all the extra stuff in your life with the great tips here.
92. Apartment Therapy. For getting by with less stuff and less space, but doing it with style, this site is unparalleled for inspiration.
93. The Happiness Project. Join the experiment as this woman tries out all the various tips for finding happiness. Wednesday is tip day, so be sure to check in then for great ideas on finding your happy place in life.
94. 43Folders. Get tips on making life easier, more productive, or just a little more fun with the ideas on this site.
95. Lifehacker. Find plenty of ideas on getting things done in your life–and getting them done well–here.
96. Stepcase Lifehack. This site offers suggestions for finding happiness to finding iPhone applications and everything in between.
97. Zen Habits. The dizzying assortment of articles on this site will help you find inspiration for your life in almost any category you can imagine from saving money to finding happiness to simplifying your life.
98. Dumb Little Man. Find "tips for life" on this site that updates weekly with suggestions for how to boost your productivity or just make life easier.
99. RealSimple. Get organized, live more simply, and save the Earth–all with the ideas from this website.
100. Everyday Simplicity. This blog is dedicated to providing ideas to help support a lifestyle of voluntary simplicity.
101. The Positivity Blog. Become inspired to stay positive and find the beauty in life with the posts on this uplifting blog.
102. Choosing Voluntary Simplicity. Follow this family as they have made a conscious decision to live life more simply and in a much more fulfilling way.

By Christina Laun

Being married to a service member of the American military can be challenging, whether you’re trying to make it in a new state or country, or dealing with the trials of a long distance relationship. You can, however, help ease your mind and get support and help through the myriad of resources available over the Internet. Why go it alone when you can connect with thousands of other spouses going through the same thing? Here are some great resources to help out the families of those serving in the military.

Relocation

Moving around the country or the world can be trying on you and your family. Check out these resources for assistance and support with your move.

1. MAP Relocation Station: The Military Assistance Program, or MAP, provides this site which is dedicated to making your move easier. It contains articles to help you manage your moving budget, find out your benefits, and build a relocation plan.
2. Plan My Move: You’ll get access to a fully featured moving plan on this site provided by Military Homefront.
3. Military Towns: Here you’ll get the information you need to make educated decisions about your next relocation for every branch of the military.
4. Military Relocation Center: Military.com has put together this site which provides easy access to tools that can help you choose a mover, rent trucks, find a realtor and more.
5. Military Relocation Network: If you’re looking for a relocation expert to help you with your move, try giving this site a look. You’ll get personalized assistance on your move anywhere in the United States.
6. Military Avenue: Check out this site for a listing of military friendly businesses and resources that can help you make a smooth transition.
7. PCS America: This network can help you find the initial resources you’ll need to get settled in a new town with assistance for the Army, Navy, Marines and Air Force.
8. Moving.com: Moving.com is a great resource for those moving with the military or just on their own. You’ll get resources to help you find a new home and ensure your belongings arrive in one piece.
9. Spouse/Partner Relocating: How to Cope with the Move: About.com provides this article which can give you some tips and insight on how you can making moving with your spouse easier.
10. The Expat Spouse - Challenges of Moving Abroad: If you’re moving from the US to a military installment abroad, take a look at this article. You may find some insights that can help ease your transition to life in a foreign country.

Long Distance Relationships

Being away from your spouse for an extended period of time, especially when he or she may be in danger can be a stressful time. Here are some articles to help you learn to deal with the separation.

11. A Military Wife’s Experience: Share in this wife’s experience of being married to a member of the military for more than 19 years.
12. Military Families: 4 Steps to Prepare for Deployment: Take a look at these practical steps to take when your loved one is shipping off to a distant place.
13. Ask April: Long Distance Relationship Advice: Check out this site for relationship advice and to read answers to others’ questions and ask your own.
14. Military Wives’ 21 Best Tips for Dealing with a Spouse’s Deployment: Read these tiny tips to give you strength and advice while your spouse is away.
15. The Short of Long Distance Relationships: Get some advice from soldiers and radio talk show host Diana Falzone on what you can do to sustain a long distance relationship.
16. Long Distance Relationships Done Right: Here you’ll find insight and a little humor on how people all over are working at making their LDRs work.
17. Military Wife Tips: Keeping Any Long Distance Relationship Alive: Give this article a read for advice on making military marriages run smoothly from someone who is married to a Navy submariner and grew up in a Navy family.
18. The Long Distance Relationship Guide: This Google book can give you some tips on keeping your love alive when you’re apart, with a special section for military spouses.
19. How to Achieve Closeness in a Long Distance Relationship: These simple steps from eHow can give you some valuable pointers on feeling close to your spouse even when they’re thousands of miles away.
20. Long Distance Relationships and the Military: Learn the basics of being with a spouse that’s in the military in this article from PlanJam.

Families

If you have children with your military spouse, dealing with long absences, frequent moves and managing the household entirely on your own can be a challenge. These sites can provide much needed help and assistance to spouses and their children.

21. Military Homefront: The Department of Defense maintains this site which is designed to help troops and their families improve their quality of life.
22. Military Child Education Coalition: With so much moving around, your child may be struggling with his or her education. Check out this organization to find resources to assist your child and ensure he or she gets the education they need.
23. Military Student.org: This DoD site helps parents make good decisions about the education of their children, no matter where their spouse may be deployed.
24. 4 Military Families: Here you’ll find resources pulled together from all over the Web that are designed to help military families adjust to their new surroundings, find jobs, move and more.
25. Military Family Resources: Sign up to get this publication, which focuses on family relocation, readiness and transitions.
26. Sgt Moms: Check out this site for news and information, as well as forums, photos and more.
27. USDA Military Families: On this site you’ll find loads of resources to give you support and help from other military families.
28. Zero to Three: This program helps support the needs of the young children of military families to ensure they get the support and resources they need to develop.
29. Coming Home: Adjustments for Military Families: Most military families look forward to the day when the absent spouse returns. While it’s a time of joy, it can also be a time that requires some tricky adjustments so read this article to get assistance.
30. Operation HomeFront: Give this organization a try for assistance with baby needs, technology to keep in touch, moving, furnishing your home and much more.

Online Communities and Forums

Reach out to other military spouses through these sites.

31. Military Spouse Support Network: Started in 1997, this site offers support and advice to the spouses left behind by service members on active duty.
32. LovingYou.com Military Spouse Support Group: Check out this forum to share stories and talk with other spouses in your situation.
33. Military Families Lighthouse: This support group is dedicated to helping families learn to survive long deployments without a loved one.
34. Military Moms: This site was created to help support military families from all branches. You’ll find helpful links and a forum.
35. CinCHouse: Join this community of military wives and women in uniform to get loads of information and support.
36. Christian Military Wives: Spouses of the Christian faith can band together in this online group and talk about issues that face military wives.
37. Married to the Army: You’ll find all the resources here you need to deal with a separation from or relocation with your spouse including ideas for care packages, moving help and forums.
38. Military SOS: Check out the message boards and chat rooms on this site to connect with other military spouses and significant others.
39. MyArmyLifeToo: Connect to the Integrated Army Support Network through this site for help on everything you’ll need to make life easier with a military spouse.
40. Military Friends Network: Use this site to keep in touch with your military spouse or to stay in contact with families you met through your travels.
41. Spouse Clubs.com: You can find clubs for spouses all over the world with this site, which offers listings for all branches of the military.
42. Military Spouse Forum: Sign up for this site to chat with loads of other military spouses.
43. Silent Warriors: Join this community to meet other military families and learn ways you can support your enlisted spouse.
44. Solo-Ops: Learn how to survive being a military spouse and share your stories with others on this popular forum.

Organizations

These organizations are dedicated to serving military spouses and their families.

45. MilSpouse.org: This site can serve as a valuable resource for relocating, finding a job and ensuring you and your children get quality educational access.
46. Military Spouses for Change: Here you’ll find an organization that’s promoting the rights, interests and needs of service members and their families.
47. National Military Family Association: Find tons of resources geared towards military families on this large organization’s site.
48. American Military Family: This organization can provide services that range from assisting in getting your children school supplies to supporting the families of wounded soldiers.
49. Fisher House: Check out this organization if you need temporary housing as a home away from home due to a sick or injured family member.
50. Military Spouse Association: Find support and advice from this association dedicated to helping military spouses.
51. Military Officers Association of America: While this organization was created to cater to the needs of former and current military officers, it also provides help and resources for their spouses.
52. Military Training Instructor Spouses Association: Spouses of military training instructors can come together in this association with links to resources and an online chat forum.

Articles

Give these articles a read for support, advice and information on being a military spouse.

53. Military Spouse Lifestyle 101: Give this article a read to learn how to make the most of your military spouse experience.
54. How to Survive Being a Military Spouse: Check out this simple guide to dealing with the challenges of military life.
55. Special Occasions Apart: Learn how to deal with spending birthdays, Christmas and other important days apart with this article.
56. Taking On Too Much When Your Husband Is Deployed: Being in charge of caring for children and a household entirely by yourself can be a challenge. Learn how to limit what you’re taking on so you don’t feel overwhelmed.
57. Separation During Deployment: Find out some ways to deal with the long separation deployment can require in this article.
58. Staying Connected When Your Spouse is Away: Here you can find some ways that you and your spouse can stay connected to one another even when you’re miles apart.
59. Top 10 Ways to Make a Military Marriage Work: Being in a military marriage isn’t always easy, but this article can give you some tips on making it work.
60. Military Marriage vs. Non-Military Marriage: This article illuminates some of the different challenges that military spouses will face.
61. Ensuring Your Military Marriage Succeeds Despite Long Deployments: Make your military marriage a happy one by following some of the advice in this article.
62. How to Maintain a Military Marriage: Get some pointers on keeping your marriage strong no matter the distance from this informative article.
63. Keeping Your Sex Life During Deployment: Being without a spouse can be lonely in more ways than one. Check out this article for some ways that you can feel physically close to your partner when they’re away.

Helpful Websites

Take advantage of the resources these sites offer to military spouses.

64. MilSpouse.com: This magazine provides loads of resources including a blog, articles, polls, tips and more.
65. Military OneSource: Find links for just about everything you could need on this portal site.
66. Military Spouse Help: Check out this site for workshops, books, articles and more that can help make being a military spouse easier.
67. Deployment LINK: Those with family members being deployed can check out this military site full of links to help you out.
68. Military Wives.com: Meet up with other military wives and find out the latest military news on this site.
69. Military Spouse Coach: Find guidance, advice, and support from relationship coach Krista Wells.
70. Sarah Smiley: Here you can find a list of resources for military wives including support groups, advice and more.
71. Army Times Spouse and Family Resources: Find lots of resources geared towards military families on this Army site.

Career Resources

Frequent moves can make it hard to focus on your career when you’re a military spouse. Check out these resources to help.

72. Military Spouse Career Center: Military.com provides this site which provides a place for you to post your resume, search for jobs and learn to advance in your field.
73. Working Around the Military: Check out this article to learn some of the challenges that face military spouses seeking employment.
74. Military Spouse Job Search: Search through jobs that are catered to your skills on this helpful career site.
75. Military Spouses’ Career Network: This network is designed to help military spouses get training, find jobs, and get support for their careers.
76. Military Spouse Corporate Career Network: Look for jobs, post your resume and more on this great job site.
77. Military Spouse Career Advancement Account: This organization helps military spouses get the training and education they need to hold careers they can do in many different locations.
78. Military Spouse Business Association: Military spouses who own their own businesses can enjoy the benefits and information provided by this helpful site.
79. Military Spouses and Entrepreneurship: Thinking of starting your own business? Check out this article for some insight.
80. Military Spouses Bring Valuable Skills When Job Hunting: Find out what valuable job skills you may not have even known you had.
81. Resume Tips for Military Spouses: Learn what to include and exclude from your resume as a military spouse looking for employment.
82. Military Spouse Job Search Tips: Get some tips and pointers on how you can get a job even though you may be making frequent moves with the military.

Blogs

Read about the trails and successes of other military spouses in these blogs.

83. Hooah Wife and Friends: Here you’ll find the blog of Amy Proctor, a wife of an Army service member who will soon be retiring. Follow her and her family as they go through this transition and check out the archives to see her blogs about his deployment to Iraq.
84. Military Spouse Press: This military family has just made a move from Texas to Germany. Follow their experiences in this blog.
85. Spouse Buzz: Spouses of military service members can share experiences and insights on this helpful blog.
86. Married to the Military: Here you can read about one Air Force wife and stay at home mom’s life as her family moves around the globe.
87. Life Lessons of a Military Wife: This veteran military wife shares tips and tricks she’s learned along the way to help make life easier for military families.
88. California to Sicily: Follow the adventures of this military family as they move from California to Italy.
89. Not So Typical Military Spouse: Read about this family’s day-to-day dealings and struggles with a dad that is frequently out on deployment.
90. More Than An Army Wife: This newlywed army wife blogs about her experiences being married to a National Guard member.
91. Standing By: Hosted by a local Tampa Bay site, this blog shows the difficulties families go through when a member has been deployed.
92. A Beautiful Mess: This blog shares the experiences of Kristi, a stay at home mom and military spouse.
93. Constant Upheaval: Blogger Andrea shares her story as the wife of a husband who recently rejoined the military after years as a civilian.

Miscellaneous

These various resources can supply a laugh, give you information and provide you with access to helpful resources.

94. Military Spouse Talk Radio: Hear the stories of other military spouses, get advice and more by tuning into this radio show.
95. Military Spouse Day: Military spouses can get the appreciation they deserve on this May 5th holiday.
96. Jenny the Military Spouse: Get a quick laugh by checking out this web comic based on the sometimes hilarious situations military spouses find themselves in.
97. Army Wife Talk Radio: Give this radio show a listen for advice and information on being married to a man in the Army.
98. Field Problems: This site provides advice for men and women struggling to make it as military spouses.
99. Armed Services YMCA: Find out how you can take advantage of YMCA services no matter where you’re living on this site.
100. Poem for a Military Wife: Check out this inspiring poem created just for military wives.

By Jessica Merritt

A fun new trend in pregnancy is the practice of taking a "babymoon," a trip that pregnant couples take before giving birth in order to enjoy one last bit of travel and relaxation before the baby comes. It allows for connection, reflection, and time to kick back. If you’re planning a babymoon, read on to learn about some of the tips, tools, and other resources you have at your disposal.

Safety

Stay safe on your babymoon by following these tips.

1. Travel during your second trimester: Avoid morning sickness and fatigue in your first trimester and stave off risk during the third by traveling during your second trimester.
2. Be vigilant about getting sick: Pregnant women are partially immuno-suppressed, so it’s important that you’re careful not to pick something up on your travels.
3. Bring a copy of your pregnancy records: In case you end up needing medical care while traveling, you’ll want to have your medical records handy.
4. Pay attention to pressure: If you’ll be flying in a smaller aircraft, ask if the cabin will be pressurized. Otherwise, your baby may be at risk of not receiving enough oxygen.
5. Use a safe pest repellant: Use DEET according to manufacturer guidelines only and be aware of chemicals that could harm you and your baby.
6. Ask your doctor about chloroquine: Chrloroquine can help prevent and treat malaria, an infection that can result in problems like miscarriage and stillbirth. You have to start taking it a few weeks before your travel and continue taking in for a few weeks after you get back.
7. Listen to your body: Travel can disrupt your routine, but it’s important to stay alert to your body’s signals.
8. Don’t hesitate to seek medical attention: If you think there may be something wrong, don’t wait until you get home. Seek out medical help right away.
9. Make sure your spa therapist knows maternity needs: Be safe by only getting spa treatments like massages from therapists who have maternity training.
10. Carry mace: It’s terrible, but pregnant women can be targets for crime, so take a small step toward protecting yourself by carrying mace.
11. Know when to stay home: If you have bleeding, abdominal pain, or other signs of complications, you need to stay home and get them worked out.
12. Travel with a companion: Don’t go it alone, you may need assistance.
13. Be aware of higher altitudes: If you’re traveling to a location that has higher altitudes, know that you may be short of breath for the first few days.
14. Always wear a seatbelt: Keep you and your baby safe in car travel by fastening your seatbelt below your belly.
15. Bring a first aid kit: Bring a doctor-approved supply of medications you may need, like antacid, allergy medicine, and painkillers.
16. Bring bug spray: Avoid diseases like malaria and dengue fever by using bug spray to keep mosquitoes away.

Supplies

Make sure you bring these supplies on your trip.

17. Bring your own body pillow: Chances are your hotel won’t have a pregnancy body pillow, so bring your own if possible.
18. Travel light: Keep your luggage light so you don’t have to do a lot of heavy lifting.
19. Don’t forget prenatal vitamins: Be sure that you have enough prenatal vitamins to last you until the trip is over.
20. Be sure to bring sunscreen: Stave off skin discoloration and burns by packing sunscreen and lots of it.
21. Make sure your cell phone works: Check your coverage and purchase any add-ons you need to make your phone usable when traveling.
22. Digital camera: Don’t forget to bring a digital camera to capture memories you’ll want to keep. 

Food

Follow these tips to make sure the food you eat is safe and nutritious.

23. Bring snacks: Make sure you always have something to munch on so that your travel companion won’t be forced to eat on your schedule, while you can stay sated.
24. Be a picky eater: Eat food that has been prepared in a way that kills germs, like baked, fried, or boiled. Fresh foods like salads are harder to clean and more risky.
25. Order your meat well cooked: By eating meat that’s cooked well, you can avoid parasites and bacteria that can cause complications.
26. Be careful about water: Local water may not be treated properly for germs, so drink bottled water and use it to brush your teeth.
27. Eat fruits and vegetables that can be peeled: If you want to avoid germs but eat healthy food, eat peelable fruits and vegetables like bananas, oranges, or avocados.
28. Stay away from buffets: Buffets are a magnet for bacteria, and they often sit out all day. Eat something that’s freshly prepared instead.
29. Drink lots of water: Stay hydrated and healthy by drinking lots of clean water on your babymoon.
30. Remember to eat lots of fiber: Help avoid constipation and bloat by loading up on fiber.
31. Drink only pasteurized milk: Pasteurization is not done everywhere, and by drinking unpasteurized milk, you may be ingesting harmful bacteria.

Travel

Take these issues into consideration when you’re making travel plans.

32. Think twice about long flights over water: If you have an emergency medical need while flying over water, you’ll have a hard time getting care.
33. Buy travel insurance: Just in case your plans change, you’ll want to have travel insurance so that you can be reimbursed for the things that can’t be refunded.
34. Register with the embassy or consulate: By registering with your country’s embassy or consulate, you’ll be able to get help if you have to leave the country for an emergency.
35. Plan around low points: Try to plan for moodiness and morning sickness, and take your babymoon at a time when they won’t be an issue.
36. Travel north-south to minimize jet lag: By traveling north-south, you can cut down on jet lag that accompanies east-west travel that spans time zones.
37. Consider an adults-only resort: You’ll have more relaxation if you go to a location that’s exclusively for adults.
38. Choose a cruise with a doctor: Make sure that your cruise ship has a doctor on board so that you can get medical attention if necessary without having to go into a port of call.
39. Think about going somewhere close: Pregnancy is not a good time to be three layovers away from your doctor.
40. Talk to your airline: Find out about your airline’s rules for pregnant women. You may need to get a note from your doctor with your due date and travel fitness.
41. Stay in one place: A babymoon is not the time to go hopping from one place to the next. Stay in one place where it will be more relaxing and you won’t have to pack up and move every few days.

Comfort

With these tips, you can help keep yourself comfortable on your babymoon.

42. Consider maternity stockings: When traveling, you’ll probably end up doing lots of sitting, so you may want to get maternity stockings that will help with circulation in your legs.
43. Wear comfortable shoes: Make sure your feet and back are comfortable by wearing sensible shoes.
44. Ask for preferred seating: See if you can get an aisle seat or one near the bathroom. Or even better, one with extra leg room. Be sure to stay away from the emergency exit rows.
45. Plan extra time for pit stops: While on your babymoon, you’ll need to allow extra time for more frequent trips to the bathroom.
46. Avoid spots with lots of alcohol: Don’t go somewhere where you’ll be sorry about all of the drinks you’re missing out on.
47. Wear layers: By wearing layers, you can add or remove clothing for comfort.
48. Reduce stress: Plan as much as you can in advance so that your babymoon will be easy and carefree.
49. Don’t be afraid to ask for help: If you would feel better using a wheelchair to get around the airport, ask for one. Get help with your luggage, and board planes early.
50. Stop for frequent stretch breaks: Avoid deep vein thrombosis by getting out and stretching your legs on a frequent basis.
51. Spring for 24-hour room service: When you have a craving at 2 AM, it’s much easier to just call down and have something brought to you.
52. Raise your feet: Avoid swelling by putting your feet up whenever you can.
53. Fly first class: For more leg room and comfort, consider getting first class seats.
54. Schedule resting time: Take it easy and be sure to save plenty of time for resting.
55. Take care of details before you go: Make sure your trip goes smoothly by making sure all of your travel details are taken care of before you leave home.

Health care

Follow these tips to make sure you have adequate health care coverage on your babymoon, just in case anything pops up.

56. Get immunizations: Before you go on your trip, ask your doctor if there are any baby-safe immunizations you should take.
57. Find out if there’s a hospital nearby: Just in case, you’ll want to have a hospital close to where you’re staying.
58. Talk to your doctor: Let your doctor know about your travel plans and get extra doses of any medication you may be taking.
59. Check your insurance coverage: Make sure that you have medical coverage where you’ll be traveling, or purchase some to be sure you’re in the clear.
60. Find local health care ahead of time: Do your research and find out about the nearest doctor in your destination.
61. Find out if blood supplies are screened: Some locations don’t screen for HIV and Hepatitis B, so be sure to find out before you go.
62. Avoid yeast infections: Wear loose cotton clothing and be sure to change out of wet bathing suits immediately
63. Bring a yeast infection treatment kit: Just in case you come down with a yeast infection, bring a kit for treatment so that you won’t be at the mercy of whatever supplies you can find in your destination.

Activities

These are a few ideas and advisories for what you can do on your babymoon.

64. Do stretches: Keep your blood flowing while in flight, in a car, or in your hotel room by doing simple stretches.
65. Relax: You’re about to take on an enormous responsibility that requires a lot of your time. Take some time to just relax while you still can.
66. Look for a resort that offers pre-natal massage: Enjoy a relaxing and healthful massage with your pregnany body in mind.
67. Avoid strenuous sporting activities: This should be obvious, but avoid taking on activities that will be too taxing on your pregnant body.
68. Be pampered: Look for spa treatments and massages to get some pre-baby pampering.
69. Take a class: Learn more about childbirth or parenting while on your babymoon.
70. Get a belly cast: Find an artist and get a cast made of your pregnant body.
71. Practice moderation: Avoid doing too much, like scuba diving or waterskiing.
72. Stay away from saunas and hot tubs: Avoid anything that will raise your core temperature too much. This includes saunas, hot tubs, and sometimes even sunbathing.

Tools

Put these tools to work to plan a fun and safe babymoon.

73. The Bathroom Diaries: Check out this site to find a clean bathroom anywhere in the world.
74. CDC Yellow Book: Use the CDC’s tool as a reference to find out about travel health advisories.
75. US State Department Travel Warnings: Find out when a country is dangerous or unstable by checking current travel warnings here.
76. Babymoon finder: Find babymoon packages near and far with this tool.
77. Pregnancy calendar: Track milestones and plan the best time to travel with a pregnancy calendar.
78. Babymoonfinder: This resource has listings of babymoons as well as products you may want to take along the way.
79. World Health Organization: The World Health Organization has travel advisories and information about health risks.
80. Flickr photos: Check out photos tagged with "babymoon" to get ideas and inspiration for your trip.
81. Emergency contact sheet for pregnant travelers: Fill out this form to keep helpful information close at hand.
82. Babymoon directory: Babymoonguide.com has a number of listings for hotels and resorts that offer babymoon packages.
83. International Association for Medical Assistance to Travellers: Use this association to find a good doctor away from home.
84. Baby-Moon: This site lists nothing but ultra-luxurious European babymoons.

Advice

In these resources, you’ll find a wealth of advice for couples planning to take a babymoon.

85. Babymoons!: In this article you’ll find tips and ideas for babymoons as well as great locations.
86. Traveling While Pregnant: Here you’ll find advice for international pregnancy travel.
87. 8 Best Babymoon Trips: This article offers tips for making the trip as well as suggestions for where you should go.
88. Pregnancy travel: where to go and how to decide: Here you’ll find advice for choosing the perfect spot to take your babymoon.
89. Checklist: Essentials for Safe Pregnancy Travel: Use this list when you’re planning what to pack for your babymoon.
90. Travel During Pregnancy: Learn about tips for safe travel, locations, and transportation options.
91. Pregnancy Travel Checklist: Here you’ll find good advice for staying safe while on your babymoon.
92. Easing Your Expectancy: Travel Tips: This article has useful advice for pregnant travelers.
93. Babymoon Getaways for Expecting Parents: Read this article to learn about popular babymoon packages available to expecting parents.
94. Destination Relaxation: Babymoon Travel Tips: Read this article to pick up some useful babymoon tips for comfort and more.
95. Traveling While Pregnant: Baby Center has a number of resources for pregnant travelers.
96. Pregnancy Travel Guide: Find out the best time to go, how to stay safe and comfortable, and signs that you should stay home.
97. Eight smart strategies for pregnant travelers: Baby.com offers advice for stress, comfort, and more.
98. Travel During Pregnancy: This article is full of tips for pregnant women considering a babymoon.
99. Babymoon tips: Here you’ll find 10 tips for 2nd trimester travel.
100. Seven Tips for Traveling When Pregnant: Read this article to get seven useful tips to use when planning travel while pregnant.

Whether you’re looking for some worship music to get you in the mood for church or just prefer to rock out to more wholesome tunes, there’s a ton of Christian music online to choose from. Even better, you can find and listen to much of it for free. We’ve put together this list of places to check out the next time you’re looking for some great Christian music to enliven your spirits.

General Music

These sites aren’t specifically Christian, but offer a range of Christian music nonetheless.

1. EZ Tracks: Search through the tracks on this site to find the best in free Christian music downloads as well as tons of other music.
2. Deezer: This site provides a free and legal way to create an online playlist for yourself. Choose from hundreds of artists, both Christian and not.
3. Download.com: Here you can stream and download all kinds of free music.
4. ArtistDirect.com: Listen to previews and free samples of songs from your favorite groups, including the Jonas Brothers and Jars of Clay.
5. Jango.com: Using Internet radio, this online site lets you play what you want to hear when you want to hear it.
6. Dizzler: Stream music from Christian and non-Christian artists on this free music site.
7. Incomptech: Check out this site for a comprehensive listing of the royalty free music out there you can enjoy and use. There’s a wide range, and a good portion of it doesn’t contain questionable content.
8. Free Music Zilla: Download free music from social sharing sites with this easy to use tool.
9. SpiralFrog: This site is home to over 800,000 songs that you can download for free. Just sign up for a membership and get started.
10. Bresso: Use this search tool to find free MP3s all over the web.
11. Rhapsody: This online program allows you to compile a list of your favorite Christian artists (or otherwise) and listen online.

Christian Only

Find music geared specifically towards Christians on these sites.

12. 4Praise: This Christian music site brings together lyrics, sheet music and of course recorded songs that are legal to download and use.
13. WorshipMusic.com: This company provides visitors to its site with some free music downloads as well as access to a streaming radio station.
14. Christian Music Today: If you’re curious about the latest in Christian music releases, check out this site for reviews and access to an online radio program.
15. CCM Magazine: Christ Community Music is a great site to help you find free and high quality Christian music. You’ll find a featured release player as well as music videos, reviews and more.
16. Worship Together: This site is a great place to find information on worship music and also to listen to new releases through the online jukebox.
17. BreatheCast: Meet all of your Christian music needs in one with this site. It has a free online radio station, music videos and tons of reviews and information on your favorite artists.
18. YourMusicZone: This Canadian site provides Christians with news about releases and the ability to stream songs right off the site.
19. HearItFirst: Christian artists and those who just love to listen to Christian music can check out the music and videos provided by this large site.
20. Music of Faith: Here you’ll find great free downloads from Christian artists and groups.
21. Free Christian Music Blog: Check out this blog’s feed for updates on new Christian music you can get for free.

Online Radio

If you’re on your computer you can listen to tons of music through these online radio stations.

22. CmRadio.net: You’ll find an eclectic mix of Christian music on this radio station from metal to celtic.
23. Pandora Radio: Here you can find radio stations and songs that fit your listening interests and tailor your experience to your needs.
24. All Worship: Check out this site for three online radio stations: contemporary worship, praise and worship and Spanish worship.
25. K-Love: You can listen to this ministry sponsored radio station right over your computer through their website. Simply click to start streaming great music.
26. Radio U: Give this station a listen to hear some of the most popular songs in Christian rock and alternative music.
27. BornAgainRadio: This LA based radio station plays the latest in Christian adult contemporary music.
28. Cross Rhythms: This online radio station provides listening access to wonderful Christian music and talk programs.
29. Power Praise Radio: Tune into this radio station to hear selections from a wide range of Christian artists from contemporary to blues.
30. ShineFM: Check out this Canadian station for hits from your favorite popular Christian artists.
31. Kingdom Keys: This Texas radio station caters to those looking for gospel tunes.
32. Intellibeat: Tailor your listening experience to your own tastes using this Christian music site.
33. Cast The Fire: Didn’t think there was such a thing as Christian techno? This radio station will prove you wrong, with loads of Christian dance tunes.
34. BranchFM: This UK station provides good music, intelligent conversation and inspiring ministry.
35. Radio Luz: Based out of Houston, Texas, this radio station caters to Christian listeners who speak Spanish.
36. ChristianTuner: Go through this site to find online radio stations that fit just about any type of music you want to listen to.
37. Acaza: This site offers three channels to cater to your tastes: hits/pop, urban, and rock.

MP3 Downloads

Download free music through these sites.

38. Christian MP Free: Give this site a look for free songs by some of your favorite Christian artists like Jars of Clay.
39. FaithSing: If you’re looking for new music to bring to your church or just to listen to at home, this site provides an ample opportunity to download new MP3’s.
40. ShareSong.org: Here you’ll find sheet music, lyrics, and downloadable MP3 and midi files of loads of praise and worship songs.
41. Emmanuel Christian Association: Go global with your downloads one this site, featuring music from Belarus, Russia and the Ukraine.
42. ChristWave MP3s: This site pulls together legal MP3 downloads from Christian music sites and puts them in one, easy-to-use place.
43. MP3.com: Here you’ll find some great MP3s from your favorite artists that are legal and free to download.
44. The Bread Site: Download some new music for your personal enjoyment on this Christian themed site.
45. Wingtune Company: Find downloads of praise and worship songs on this company’s site.

Band Specific

Check out these Christian bands’ sites for free downloads and online previews.

46. Oremus Catholic Rock: This band focuses on Catholic themed music and offers visitors to their site the chance to hear streamed versions of their songs before downloading.
47. Flavor 4 the Savior: Check out this hip hop site that aims to promote a good Christian message through their musical groups.
48. Greg Magirescu: This Christian singer and songwriter has previews of nearly all his song on his site so you can check it out before you buy.
49. Gretchen: Watch a free music video and get information about this Christian goth-rock band.
50. Jars of Clay: Check out this popular artist’s site for a free music video and streaming songs.
51. Yolanda Adams: This young gospel singer has an impressive voice and you can check out her talent through a free video on the Atlantic Records site.
52. Casting Crowns: One of the most popular Christian bands of all time, this band offers free videos, music, photos and more on their site.
53. Rebecca St. James: With a book and a couple CDs to her name, this Australian artist is a great place to look for Christian inspiration. Check out her site for free media.
54. Switchfoot: Popular among Christians and non-Christians alike, this catchy band offers some great music videos on their site.

From Ministries and Groups

Some ministries and religious groups will give out music samples to spread the word about their programs. You can enjoy them at these sites.

55. Secret Place Ministries: The work of this ministry is to bring more people to the church and you can use its site to find samples and selections of Christian music.
56. Godly Christian Music: This site is home to free music from many churches and Christian singers and songwriters around the country.
57. Second Chance Ministries: Check out the southern gospel music provided by this musical ministry.
58. FreshWorship: This ministry aims to bring more people into faith through music, and you can find information about bands and free music on their site.
59. Bethel Music Ministry: Based around Ethiopian churches, this ministry provides Christian music that reflects both Christian values and Ethiopian culture.

Christian Rock

Younger Christians and hip adults will appreciate these sites for free tunes.

60. ChristianRock.net: Here you’ll find 24 hour online radio that plays the latest from bands like Switchfoot and DC Talk.
61. Q90 - Christian Hit Radio: Here you’ll hear the biggest hits by Christian artists, both in Christian music and in mainstream listening.
62. Savage Rock: For Christians who are more into the metal side of things, this station is an ideal place to listen. You’ll be able to hear hardcore Christian bands like Zao, Extol and more.
63. thePULSErocks: If you don’t like all that easy listening stuff then check out this online station. You’ll get Christian-themed music with a heavier edge.
64. Freq 107: Check out this online radio station to listen to the best in Christian rock music.
65. Air 1: This online radio station is dedicated to providing more positively themed alternative music, as well as a host of other resources geared at teens and young adults.
66. Almighty Metal Radio: Here you’ll find great selections of music ranging from the 80’s to today from Christian rock and metal bands.
67. Jesus Freak Hideout: Geared towards teens, this site is a great place to find hip new Christian music reviews, information and downloads.
68. The Bored Again Christian: Don’t be fooled by the name, this Christian podcast is by no means boring. It provides one of the most popular Christian music podcasts out there, with selections from tons of popular bands.
69. Christian Music Planet: Listen to the latest releases, get reviews and watch hip music videos on this site.
70. Soul Purpose: This New Zealand based site creates a great forum for music discussion and community while providing free streaming songs from artists new and old.
71. SongTouch: Stay on the cutting edge of Christian rock music with this site. You’ll get updates on new releases and the chance to stream select songs off the site.

Gospel

Get your spirit up and moving with these great gospel music sites.

72. The Cyber Hymnal: This site is home to thousands of hymns and gospel songs in both lyric and midi form.
73. America’s Home Spun Gospel: Check out this online radio station for the best in southern gospel music.
74. GospelCity: Listen to songs and watch music videos on this hip and streamlined gospel site.
75. Gospel Music Videos: If you’re in the mood to watch a few videos, check out this site. While it has a slim selection, you won’t have a pay a thing to watch.
76. Toronto Gospel: Canadians and otherwise will appreciate the music from this site, which you can listen to for free on their online MP3 player.
77. Linda Weber: This gospel singer won female vocalist of the year in Ohio, and you can check out free songs on her website.
78. Free Gospel Music: Here you’ll find song books and MP3s that you can download of great gospel favorites.
79. A Free Gospel Music.org: Use the name and password provided by this site to legally download hundreds of gospel songs for your listening pleasure.
80. AOL Gospel Stations: Listen to all kinds of gospel music through these AOL online radio stations from southern to modern.
81. BlackGospelRadio: Check out this online radio station to hear tons of inspiring gospel music, totally free of charge.

Local Bands

Support your local musicians and Christian groups through these sites.

82. IndependentBands.com: Here you’ll find Christian music and more to help you learn about new groups and keep up with your old favorites.
83. NonExistentBands.com: Looking for some great Christian music in your area? This site lists thousands of Christian bands around the world with numerous links to sites where you can listen to their music.
84. PureVolume: Local artists and popular groups alike can list songs on this site that you can listen to for free. Search for your favorite groups or by genre.
85. The Christian Musician Network: Christian musicians can come together on this site and individuals can search through and find great Christian music tracks to listen to on their sites.
86. BandZoogle: Check this site for listings from Christian groups who often offer free songs to garner interest in their work.
87. Local Band Network: While not specific to Christian artists, you can find out loads about bands in your area and maybe even get a few free tracks on this site.
88. BandNut: Search for Christian rock bands on this site to help support your local music scene.
89. GigMasters: If you’re not only looking to listen to music but to hire musicians for an event, this site can be a great help. You’ll find listings for loads of Christian groups all over the nation here, with samples you can listen to.
90. Unsigned Band Web: Find out what will be big before it gets big in Christian music on this site.

Videos

Why just listen when you can watch a video? Check out these sites for the latest in Christian music videos.

91. Godtube: Check out user submitted music and videos on this religiously themed YouTube alternative.
92. MyPraiseSong: This social network is also a great place to find Christian music videos that you can stream online without paying a thing.
93. JCTV: This Flash-based site is a great and easy place to check out the latest Christian music in video form.
94. 316MUZIK: Sign up for a free membership on this site and start downloading high quality Christian music videos.
95. CITV: This Christian channel offers a variety of programming, including free Christian music videos that you can watch right from their site.
96. HigherPraise: Geared towards the younger generation, this site provides ample choices of music videos that should meet the tastes of just about everyone.
97. OneCubed: This site lists dozens of Christian artists that you can watch videos for, get updates about and find out concert information on.
98. Spirit Television Network: Use Windows Media Player to watch the video content of this site online for free.
99. Y’All Wire: Fans of country and bluegrass music will enjoy this online music video player.
100. TVU: Check out the music videos for your favorite Christian rock bands on this great site.

While sites like MySpace and Facebook can be great for keeping in touch, they may not always be filled with the kind of content that many Christians find appropriate. Fortunately, many sites have opened up that allow Christians to meet others from their faith, keep in touch with friends and family and share their experiences with the world. Here are a just a few that we’ve highlighted to get you started.

Top Sites

These sites are some of the most popular networks for Christians on the net.

1. MyPraize: Users young and old alike can join this site to post videos, chat with others, participate in forums and create a unique user profile or blog.
2. DittyTalk: This social networking site focuses on safety and privacy, and provides a great place to post blogs, chat with friends and even get new music without worries of questionable content.
3. HolyPal: Check out this Christian social network to create your own profile, participate in active forums and maybe even create your own personal blog about your faith or daily life.
4. Xianz: Advertised as the faith-based alternative to MySpace, this site offers many of the same features. Users can create their own homepages and profiles, leave messages for friends, and participate in groups and forums.
5. Christian.com: This site was created from a recent merger of two large Christian social networks. It is also similar to MySpace, with users able to create their own profiles and share their interests in music, books and more.
6. FaithFreaks: Join this easy-to-use social network to get support and encouragement from the Christian community, create your own profile, and even create online groups for your local youth organizations and bible studies.
7. JCFaith: This site’s colorful and sleek design makes it easy to keep in touch through chat and blogs and to post photos, music and anything else you’d like to share.
8. YourChristianSpace: Another Christian MySpace alternative, this site provides private messaging, user profiles, online journals and whole lot more.
9. ShoutLife: This social networking community isn’t limited to Christians but it does provide a safe and clean place to create a profile, talk with friends and post a personal blog.
10. myIchthus: Teens and young adults will feel at home at this social networking site geared towards Christians. Users can create a profile and participate in chats and forums with like minded teens.

Other Social Networks

Check out these great sites for an alternative way to stay in touch that keeps in line with your faith.

11. KindleJoy: Share your prayer requests in this online network. You can also comment on other prayers, connect with people from around the world and even create prayer specific groups.
12. Christianster: Modeled after the once popular social networking site Friendster, this network is designed to make it easy for Christians to make new friends, share advice and prayers and connect with people through their faith.
13. MeetFish: Billed as an "ocean of friends" this site is a great place for Christians to share their faith and meet others in a clean and safe environment.
14. Ianoint: With this site you can not only meet new people but post videos, create a blog, 3D chat, shop and much more.
15. JesusCrowd: Here you’ll find a social network designed to help Christians grow together in their faith. You can create a profile, find friends, share prayers and even post photos and videos.
16. LiveKite: Geared towards the younger generation, this site provides a place where Christian groups, bands and individuals can meet and network.
17. ZoeCity: While not created just for Christians, this social networking site provides a safe and clean place to connect. Free from objectionable content you can feel secure using it yourself or allowing your teen to create a profile.
18. 101ChristianSpaces.com: With a look a feel very similar to MySpace, you can get the whole social networking experience on this site, without the salacious content.
19. OurChristianPlace: Join this online community to enjoy free forums, blogs, profiles prayer requests and even classifieds listings.
20. Christian Vibes: Here you can find a site that allows you to meet other Christians for friendship, dating or even just moral support and prayer.
21. ChristUnion: Check out this site for great chats and forums as well as personal profiles and posted videos and photos.
22. Inspired Network: Become part of this all-ages Christian community to meet other Christians from all over the world.
23. Big Baptist: Find other Baptists in your area or all over the nation to chat with on this site. You can create your own profile as well and join a church based group.
24. MyGodlyPlace: This Christian social network is another MySpace alternative. It offers the chance to create your own user profile to use as a home base to blog, chat, post music and videos and much more.
25. OurLordsFriends: Join this community to connect, chat, blog and just about anything else in a safe online format.
26. The Desperate: This network is billed as having "purpose and passion" and can be a great forum for talking with others, especially young adults, about Christian topics your are excited about.
27. CoolChristianFriends: Complete the quick registration for this site and get started blogging, messaging friends, chatting and enjoying a variety of other features.

Forums and Chat

Chat and send messages to other Christians on these sites.

28. aBlazeNet: This site provides an easy-to-use IRC based chat program for Christians.
29. Black and Christian: Those of the African-American community can make the most of this site which offers articles and information as well as great forums.
30. FaithLight: Create a profile on this site to start blogging and chatting with others of the Christian faith.
31. Christianity.com: Give this site a visit for blogs, forums and chats and a whole lot more.
32. God180: With this site you’ll be able to send messages and talk with other Christians from all over the world.
33. Living Sounds Online: Here you can not only listen to Christian radio and other digital media, but also join in on discussions in the online community.
34. Berean Watchmen Ministries: Check out this site for free articles, conferences, ministry resources and of course online networking.
35. Christian Connection Network: Looking for a new pen pal? You can find someone that shares your same beliefs and values on this site.
36. CrossDaily: While the specialization of this site is Christian-themed graphics, you can also use it to send e-cards, take part in an online community and even meet other Christian singles.
37. MyFaithPage: This faith-based site features forums to post photos and videos as well as an easy-to-use chat program.
38. TalkJesus: Join this forum for discussions on sermons, churches, bible study, art, books and movies and much more.

Other Great Networks and Communities

These sites can provide numerous ways to keep in touch and share your faith with others.

39. GodTube.com: Share your religious and inspirational videos on this site. You’ll be able to view others’ videos and make comments. Who knows, maybe you’ll find someone to connect with.
40. MyChurch.org: This site provides a great place for your church to build an online community. You’ll be able to connect with members of your congregation as well as find churches from all over.
41. ChristianBlog.com: If you want to blog in a safe and faith-friendly environment, check out this site which provides blogging space for Christians.
42. JesusPhish: This pay site provides a convenient community to share prayer requests, find sermons and bible studies, talk in a Christian forum and even take advantage of a Christian dating service.
43. Christian.net: Check out this free, nondenominational community to participate in forums about Christianity and get access to free mail and chat.
44. Crosswalk: On this site you’ll find hundreds of articles, channels, and resources as well as active Christian chat and discussion forums.
45. iamnext: College and university students of the Christian faith can check out this site to find helpful articles and discussion groups.
46. Gospel.com: Join this community to learn about ministries around the world and read insightful and inspirational articles.
47. Habitus: This global Christian network focused on scholarly studies provides a place for Christians to find valuable reading material, video clips, movie reviews, and participate in a network with free blogs, profiles and homepages.
48. Tribal Generation: Christians in the UK, and those around the world, can take advantage of this site which offers networking capabilities for churches and the members of their congregation.
49. People2Pray: Share your prayers with others, comment and talk with others about their prayers, and store your requests for later on this prayer oriented site.
50. MyFlock: You and your church can take advantage of this networking site, which creates an easy way for members of the same church to stay informed and connected.

By Alisa Miller

Christians looking to connect with other Christians online are in luck. Several sites on the Internet are safe, clean, and specially designed for Christians to meet others who share their faith. From dating to social networking to strengthening the family, these resources offer plenty of ways for Christians to connect.

Christian Social Networking

Find new friends or connect with old ones on these social networking sites specifically for Christians.

1. Mequam. This Christian social network offers a safe place for Christians to come together, share Christian music, play games, watch videos, and more.
2. Christ Connection. This group started as a small group of Christians getting together every Thursday and have expanded online. You can connect with this group online to ask questions, share testimony, request prayers, and more.
3. MyChurch. The Christian substitute for MySpace, this social networking site allows you to connect with other Christians.
4. Metamorpha. This online community offers guidance for spiritual growth and online fellowship to help you achieve your personal growth.
5. Smile and Share. Specifically for the Philippine Christian community, this online network allows Christians to connect through discussion groups, profiles, and more.
6. Xianz. Watch videos, connect with friends, and more on this social networking site.
7. Your Christian Space. Popular with the 20-somethings, this site offers profiles, music, quizzes, blogs, and more.
8. JCFaith.com. Participate in the forums, read blogs, or just stay in touch with friends on this network.
9. ChristUnion.com. Another young adult network, this one seems to focus on more "hard" topics such as addiction recovery and politics.
10. Holypal.com. Share comments with friends, watch videos, read blogs, and more on Holypal.com.
11. Praize. Join a group, participate in a forum, read blogs, or share videos with your friends here.
12. MyPraize. This site offers lots of Christian videos and music in addition to the typical networking features.
13. DittyTalk. Similar to MySpace and Facebook, you can easily find friends through email contacts and other social networks to build up your friends here.
14. christianster. Make new friends, enjoy fellowship, or share in spiritual growth on this site.
15. 5loaves.net. Get your own page where you can blog, post photos, and more to stay connected with other Christians.
16. Spirit TAG. Create a profile, photo albums, or just hang out in the cafe for fellowship on this site.
17. MEETfish. Invite your friends to join this growing network where you can share photos, join groups, and more.
18. ShoutLife. This social network touts itself as "safe and clean" and offers lots of features to help you stay connected with your friends.

Networking for a Cause

Whether promoting a specific outreach program or staying in touch with other missionaries, these networks aspire to a higher purpose.

19. Oaktreeidea.com. Taking social networking to a new level, the hope of this site is to inspire people to do good works while staying connected.
20. missionaries.in. Missionaries around the world can connect here and share their experiences.
21. People2Pray. If you want to be part of an online prayer group, this site is the place for you.
22. MinistryHome. Set up profiles, websites, and blogs to get the word out about your ministry. You can even raise funds here.

Christian Chat Rooms

Join in discussions with other Christians in these chat rooms.

23. aBlazeNet. These chat rooms are non-denominational, clean Christian chat rooms available to promote the love of Christ.
24. Christian Chat. These chat rooms are available for teens, homeschoolers, moms, and more and are specifically for conservative Christians.
25. Christian Fellowship: CH