You, the readers who comprise the community here at Of The Hearth, often ask thought-provoking questions in your comments and emails. It’s likely that these questions are shared by many readers, so I’ve decided to answer some in posts. I hope you will contribute by adding your input in the comments! Leslie in Florida asked the … [Read more...] about Healthy, Easy-to-Prepare Breakfast Options
Archives for January 2016
Routines Can Make or Break Your Day
As my family’s typical routine has been disrupted for many weeks because of moving and visiting with loved ones for the holidays, I’ve become increasingly convinced that routines are critical for having a peaceful, productive home. When I talk about routines, I’m not talking about schedules (rigid agendas where specific activities occur … [Read more...] about Routines Can Make or Break Your Day
A Basic Tool Primer
Though a toolbox is sometimes viewed as a grown man’s toy box, the reality is that women also need to be able to identify and use basic tools. I was blessed with a father who imparted much of this knowledge to me as I was growing up, but I know many women who didn’t have this experience. They sometimes feel tentative when sorting through … [Read more...] about A Basic Tool Primer
Chicken Noodle Casserole
I love serving warm casseroles for dinner on cold winter evenings. This hearty one is always a favorite in my house. Ingredients (Adapted from this recipe.) 2 boneless, skinless chicken breast halves 14 ounces egg noodles 2 cups homemade cream of mushroom soup or 1 (10.75 ounce) can condensed cream of mushroom soup 1 cup sour … [Read more...] about Chicken Noodle Casserole
Tired Soles and a Peace-Filled Soul
Have you ever read any pieces by Martin Luther King, Jr.? If not, then I encourage you to find time to do so. Though he is famous for his public speaking, he was also a fantastic writer. I was a freshman in college when I read his Letter from Birmingham Jail. There is a particular quote from that piece that has stuck with me all these … [Read more...] about Tired Soles and a Peace-Filled Soul
What Makes a House a Home?
After a four-month stay in temporary housing after our move across the country last summer, my family has purchased a delightful house where we hope to reside for many years. Through all the house hunting, negotiating, inspecting, repairing, and moving, I’ve realized that many of us invest significant amounts of time and money to obtain … [Read more...] about What Makes a House a Home?
Why I Wish I Could Wear My Wedding Ring During Pregnancy
Back during my first pregnancy, I didn’t realize just how much my fingers would swell. They became so puffy that I thought we were going to have to cut off my wedding band! After a lot of work and pain, we were able to get my ring off intact. Though it was best that it was no longer constricting my finger, I sure loathed going without … [Read more...] about Why I Wish I Could Wear My Wedding Ring During Pregnancy
Winter 2015 Menu
I know that we’ve entered 2016, but I did not get a chance to share my family’s winter menu last month when we began using it. I’ve detailed my menu planning process previously. In short, at the start of each season I develop a menu that contains four weeks’ worth of meals. We use each of these menus for the three months of its … [Read more...] about Winter 2015 Menu