Every day of 2012 presented opportunities to learn something new. When I reflect on the days of 2012 collectively, several of the lessons I’ve learned stand out. Make keeping in touch with friends from your past a priority. With so many obligations vying for my time and effort, it is tough to maintain contact with friends from my past. In … [Read more...] about 12 Lessons Learned in 2012
Archives for December 2012
Memorizing Scripture (Part 1)
I memorized scripture regularly during my teen years and as an undergraduate student. Over the last several years, my memorization has become sporadic. Thanks to some introspection and goal planning, this is about to change! I’ve set for myself the goal of memorizing at least one Bible verse or passage each month during 2013. Today, I’ll … [Read more...] about Memorizing Scripture (Part 1)
Recycling Christmas
According to the Environmental Protection Agency, the amount of waste produced by Americans increases by 25% during the Thanksgiving and Christmas season. (This is approximately 1 million extra tons of trash each year!) Personally, I think the best way to have an environmentally conscious holiday season is to plan ahead. Unfortunately, my … [Read more...] about Recycling Christmas
Reflections on Christ’s Humility
This Christmas season I have found myself drawn to an account of the humility of the one who “became flesh and made his dwelling among us” (John 1:14). “In your relationships with one another, have the same mindset as Christ Jesus: Who, being in very nature God, did not consider equality with God something to be used to his own advantage; … [Read more...] about Reflections on Christ’s Humility
Setting Goals for the New Year
In just a few days I will begin my annual phase of faltering when writing the date. My brain will recognize the error a split second after my hand automatically writes “2012.” The New Year is often conceptualized as a fresh start or a blank slate. My husband and I have chosen to capitalize on this concept by setting goals for the coming … [Read more...] about Setting Goals for the New Year
Tragedies as Teachable Moments
Much has been—and will continue to be—said in the wake of the December 14th shooting at Sandy Hook Elementary School. No matter how eloquently, passionately, or convincingly spoken, it is all powerless to restore the lives that were taken on that day or erase the pain being felt by so many. I’m not sure that I have anything exceptionally … [Read more...] about Tragedies as Teachable Moments
Cookies ‘n’ Creme Dark Chocolate Brownies
Around here, baking is often like assembling a jigsaw puzzle. I try to fit together unique components that are of no use on their own, but together form a beautiful (or in this case, tasty) product. Today was no exception as I prepared some goodies for a dessert exchange that will occur during a Christmas party my husband and I will attend … [Read more...] about Cookies ‘n’ Creme Dark Chocolate Brownies
Welcome!
Welcome to Of The Hearth, a blog about faith, family, and forging a difference in our communities. While a hodgepodge of topics are addressed here, all are intended to facilitate growth into Christ’s likeness through the activities of daily life, support cultivation of family, and provide inspiration for making a positive difference in … [Read more...] about Welcome!
