When I think about hospitality, I often consider ways my husband and I can bless others in our home. Which friends can we invite over for fellowship? Are family or friends in need of a place to stay while vacationing in the area? Can we host a baby shower or birthday party for a friend? It recently occurred to me that I can encourage … [Read more...] about Encourage Others in Hospitality: Be a Good Dinner Guest
Chicken Bacon Ranch Macaroni and Cheese
This variation of macaroni and cheese has turned out to be one of the tastiest dishes on our menu this fall! Ingredients 1 chicken breast, cooked and cut into bite-sized cubes 4 slices of bacon, cooked and crumbled 3 cups macaroni (uncooked measure) 1/2 cup sour cream 3 tablespoons ranch seasoning mix 4 cups shredded … [Read more...] about Chicken Bacon Ranch Macaroni and Cheese
Wise Charitable Giving
Do you make donations to nonprofit organizations? The Thanksgiving and Christmas season, during which there’s often an upswing in charitable giving, is a good time to consider how nonprofit organizations are using our donations. Last year the Tampa Bay Times, The Center for Investigative Reporting, and CNN did a special report on … [Read more...] about Wise Charitable Giving
Fall Home Maintenance
If my husband and I hadn’t previously felt the full weight of the responsibility of home ownership, we’re certainly feeling it now. A kitchen sink that wasn’t draining and an appliance that wasn’t working reminded us that we don’t have a landlord to call for repairs. These incidents highlighted the importance of performing routine … [Read more...] about Fall Home Maintenance
Movies: A Good or Bad Date Idea?
My husband loves watching movies, so he thinks movies make great dates. I’m frequently unimpressed by movies, so I’m not so sure. Let’s look at some advantages and disadvantages associated with movie dates, as well as some things that can be done to enhance this classic date idea. Advantages of movie dates Movies can spark … [Read more...] about Movies: A Good or Bad Date Idea?
A Wake-Up Call to Memorize Scripture
Have you found a way to integrate consistent Scripture memorization into your life? I wish I could say that I have, but in all honesty I’m more motivated and more disciplined in some seasons than in others. This may be changing; however, because I recently came up with a simple idea that has sped up my memorization. I use the alarm … [Read more...] about A Wake-Up Call to Memorize Scripture
Cleaning Schedule Architecture: Building One that Works for You
Having a clean house is refreshing and pleasant. Unfortunately, getting to a clean house can sometimes be taxing and unpleasant. Cleaning schedules can streamline housecleaning and help you keep up with various tasks. I absolutely love lists and schedules, so soon after I got married I began looking for a suitable cleaning schedule. … [Read more...] about Cleaning Schedule Architecture: Building One that Works for You
Chili Mac
We’ve enjoyed having chili mac on our menu this fall. This super affordable dish is easy to prepare, nutritious, and filling. Ingredients 3 cups macaroni pasta (uncooked measure) 1 lb. ground beef or turkey 1 medium onion, chopped 2 teaspoons chopped garlic 24 oz. strained tomatoes, tomato sauce, or finely diced tomatoes 1 … [Read more...] about Chili Mac
