If you’ve ever had a newborn, then it doesn’t surprise you to hear that babies cry. Sometimes they cry quite a bit. In fact, sometimes they cry inconsolably for hours with no apparent reason for the crying. There are many great articles out there that suggest strategies to calm fussy newborns (see a couple examples here and here). That … [Read more...] about How to Keep Your Cool When Your Baby Won’t Stop Crying
Raising an Inheritance
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!
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)
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)
Equipping Toddlers with New Skills
Many parents find themselves in one of two extreme camps. They either expect their children to grow up more quickly than is realistic or they do things that inhibit their children from growing up at the proper pace. Parents in the former group may expect their newborns to be able to sleep through the entire night without waking to feed while … [Read more...] about Equipping Toddlers with New Skills
Getting Time with Your Spouse When You Have No Babysitter for the Kids
One-on-one time with your spouse is beneficial in any marriage relationship, but it takes on new importance and is particularly elusive for parents of young children. At first glance, it seems like finding alone time is simple: Just leave the kids with a sitter for a few hours! However, for many couples, this is easier said than … [Read more...] about Getting Time with Your Spouse When You Have No Babysitter for the Kids
6 Things Children Can Learn From Gardening
We finally have a yard large enough to accommodate several raised garden beds. With the clumsy help of my toddler, I recently moved my plants from their starter pots into two large beds. I’m thrilled to be introducing my daughter to gardening because there are so many lessons—truly crucial lessons—that our children can learn from … [Read more...] about 6 Things Children Can Learn From Gardening
Road Tripping with a Toddler: Tips for an Enjoyable Ride
The only thing more intimidating than taking a road trip with an infant is taking one with a toddler. Fortunately, as is the case when road tripping with a baby, a little planning and creativity can help things go smoothly and enjoyably. Please note that this post contains some affiliate links. Click here to read about what this … [Read more...] about Road Tripping with a Toddler: Tips for an Enjoyable Ride