If you’ve read a lot here on Of The Hearth, then you’re likely aware that I value hard work and productivity. Whether I'm battling laziness, identifying the reasons I struggle to get things done, or trying to overcome procrastination, it seems I'm always trying to get more done. Given I spend my days caring for two young children, I … [Read more...] about Sacrificing at the Altar of Getting Things Done
Growing Spiritually
4 Ways to Cultivate Love for People
Sometimes I grow irritated with my fellow human beings after getting stuck in traffic or having to wait for a long time in a public place like the DMV or a doctor’s office. I see people acting rudely and without regard for others (e.g., cutting off other drivers when in a traffic jam, leaving trash strewn about a waiting area, playing music … [Read more...] about 4 Ways to Cultivate Love for People
DIY Jesse Tree Ornaments
As I noted when I wrote last summer about Christ-focused Advent traditions, the Jesse Tree is one of my favorite parts of Christmas. A Jesse Tree helps families reflect on the people, prophesies, and events that preceded Christ’s birth. There is one Jesse Tree reading for each day of Advent. These readings are from the Bible and each is … [Read more...] about DIY Jesse Tree Ornaments
Nipping Discontentedness in the Bud
My mind was swarming with negative thoughts as we drove to church a few weeks ago. I wish I had more time to get things done. I wish my infant would nap for longer stretches. I wish my husband would help out a little more around the house. Though these thoughts were about different things, they were all rooted in discontent. Like many … [Read more...] about Nipping Discontentedness in the Bud
5 Ways to Stop Procrastinating
I occasionally find myself putting off some task that I really need to accomplish. Often the task relates to housecleaning, though sometimes it relates to budgeting, yard work, or home maintenance. I’m a little embarrassed to say that sometimes days, weeks, or even months will pass before I finally buckle down and complete it. Does this ever … [Read more...] about 5 Ways to Stop Procrastinating
I’m Done Pretending I Have It All Together
I had some friends over a couple of weeks ago and, much to my embarrassment, I noticed halfway through our lunch that I had not served them anything to drink. I had a drink in front of me and my oldest daughter had one in front of her (I’d poured both earlier in the day), but I simply forgot to serve drinks to our guests. I felt … [Read more...] about I’m Done Pretending I Have It All Together
Embracing the Present Season
Last week, during the prayer time following a small group Bible study, I sat with several other moms as we discussed the challenges of having young children in the home. As many of you know, these challenges are numerous. While we were wrapping up, one mom reminded us that this is just a season. As time passes, this season (with its many … [Read more...] about Embracing the Present Season
Christmas in July: Christ-Focused Advent Traditions
Traditionally, the term “Advent” has referred to the first season of the Christian church year. Advent is a period of prayer, reflection, and fasting that begins four Sundays before Christmas, preparing followers to celebrate Christ’s birth and building expectation for Christ’s final coming. Even for Christians who don’t use the church … [Read more...] about Christmas in July: Christ-Focused Advent Traditions
