Living with a chronic disease means facing many challenges. These challenges go beyond the physical consequences of the disease (which are significant enough) and include financial hardships, anxiety, and feelings of isolation. My husband and I are quite familiar with these challenges because I suffer from an autoimmune disease. One of … [Read more...] about What to Include in a Care Package for a Loved One with a Chronic Disease
Archives for 2016
Another Blessing Has Arrived!
Though I still have posts publishing regularly, Of The Hearth’s social media pages have been pretty quiet this past week because I’ve been a little busy with this precious one: We welcomed our second daughter, Nitara Irene, on June 24th. Nitara means “deeply rooted” and Irene means “peace.” She weighed 8 lbs 7 oz and was 19 in … [Read more...] about Another Blessing Has Arrived!
Riveting Reads: May and June 2016
I am going to take a break again today from my customary posts to share with you some inspiring, insightful, and thought-provoking posts that I have read from other bloggers during the last two months. I hope you appreciate these as much as I have. Riveting reads from May and June 2016 Jamie at Medium Sized Family proposes 5 important … [Read more...] about Riveting Reads: May and June 2016
Healthier Crispy Treats
As far as snacks go, traditional Rice Krispies Treats® aren’t that terrible for you, but they’re not exactly good for you, either! I was looking for something to snack on a few days ago and improvised to create a slightly more nutritious version. After making (and falling in love with) these, I did some searching and found that a number … [Read more...] about Healthier Crispy Treats
Summer 2016 Preview
Summer is officially underway. This means that life is about to become a flurry of activity for many of us! What will occupy your time? A family vacation or staycation? Completing projects in the yard? Going camping? Attending a family reunion? We’ll be busy with a number of things, the most significant of which is welcoming our second … [Read more...] about Summer 2016 Preview
Things to Consider When Deciding Whether or Not to Cloth Diaper (Part 2)
Last week we began looking at factors that parents should consider when deciding if disposable or cloth diapers are best for their families. We discussed the financial implications of cloth diapering, if cloth diapers are “greener” than disposables, and what it takes to wash cloth diapers. Let’s examine two additional factors today: … [Read more...] about Things to Consider When Deciding Whether or Not to Cloth Diaper (Part 2)
Mexican Rice Bake
This recipe caught my eye because it seemed easy to prepare and sounded tasty. I’m glad we tried it because it met my expectations! Ingredients (Adapted from this recipe.) 1 lb. ground meat 1 ½ cups brown rice 2 cups water ½ of a red or green bell pepper, diced 1 medium onion, chopped 1 bunch cilantro, chopped 1 carton … [Read more...] about Mexican Rice Bake
Things to Consider When Deciding Whether or Not to Cloth Diaper (Part 1)
Many couples know what type of diapers they will use before they even become pregnant. They know there is absolutely no way they will use cloth diapers or they feel strongly that cloth is the only way to go. Other couples need to engage in lengthy deliberations before deciding which are best for their families. My husband and I found … [Read more...] about Things to Consider When Deciding Whether or Not to Cloth Diaper (Part 1)