When I saw this meme on Facebook last November I was struck by its accuracy: I initially felt a little self-righteous as I read it. After all, I don’t complain on Facebook. In taking a good, honest look at myself, though, I see that my complaining occurs in person or via phone. What about you? Do you give thanks around the … [Read more...] about Be Grateful Throughout the Year
Affordable, Easy-to-Prepare Meals for Large Groups
We have several family members coming to spend the week of Thanksgiving with us. As much as I love cooking, I’d rather spend time visiting with my loved ones than in the kitchen preparing meals. We’re also on a tight budget, so I don’t want to break the bank when purchasing foods for us to eat. I’ve been brainstorming and have come up … [Read more...] about Affordable, Easy-to-Prepare Meals for Large Groups
Scriptures to Calm Mom When Baby Won’t Stop Crying
It was just a short time ago that I shared a number of encouraging Bible verses for pregnancy. My pregnancy is now over so my ankles are no longer swollen, I can easily take a deep breath, and my hips no longer ache, but my need for encouragement is far from over. I’ve traded these challenges for new ones: crying, late night nursing … [Read more...] about Scriptures to Calm Mom When Baby Won’t Stop Crying
Rekindling the Romance of Early Marriage
During the early months of marriage it’s easy to go the extra mile to do special things for your spouse. As time passes, though, things like busyness, fatigue, distractions, and disagreements make this more difficult. I’m simply not as eager to make my husband’s favorite cookies now, nor is he as eager as he once was to rub my sore … [Read more...] about Rekindling the Romance of Early Marriage
She’s Here!
It’s been pretty quiet at OF THE HEARTH over the last couple of weeks. Why? I’ve been occupied with this blessing: My husband, Preston, and I welcomed our daughter, Amaris Gail, on October 7th. Amaris means “promised by God” and Gail means “my father rejoices.” She weighed 8 lbs 9 oz and was 19 in long. She arrived a little … [Read more...] about She’s Here!
Healthy Convenience Foods
I typically avoid purchasing convenience foods because they are pricy both in terms of their monetary cost and in terms of the toll they take on health. We all experience busy seasons (such as after the birth of a baby) where convenience foods can help us preserve our sanity. Are there any convenience foods that can be considered … [Read more...] about Healthy Convenience Foods
Encouraging Scriptures for Pregnancy
My husband and I are incredibly blessed to be expecting the little girl who currently resides in my womb, but will emerge any day now. I never want to lose sight of how grateful we are for her. To be honest, though, I’m pretty uncomfortable right now. My feet and ankles are swollen. My back and hips ache. I’m not sleeping well at night. … [Read more...] about Encouraging Scriptures for Pregnancy
Chicken and Vegetables in Curried Cream Sauce
My husband and I enjoy several varieties of curry, but on occasion we desire a dish that is a little milder. This affordable, nutritious dish is perfect for these times. Ingredients 2 tablespoons butter 2 tablespoons flour 1-2 teaspoons curry powder (depending on how mild of a flavor you want) 1 can (13.5 oz.) coconut milk 1/2 cup … [Read more...] about Chicken and Vegetables in Curried Cream Sauce
