According to the Environmental Protection Agency, the amount of waste produced by Americans increases by 25% during the Thanksgiving and Christmas season. (This is approximately 1 million extra tons of trash each year!) Personally, I think the best way to have an environmentally conscious holiday season is to plan ahead. Unfortunately, my … [Read more...] about Recycling Christmas
Reflections on Christ’s Humility
This Christmas season I have found myself drawn to an account of the humility of the one who “became flesh and made his dwelling among us” (John 1:14). “In your relationships with one another, have the same mindset as Christ Jesus: Who, being in very nature God, did not consider equality with God something to be used to his own advantage; … [Read more...] about Reflections on Christ’s Humility
Setting Goals for the New Year
In just a few days I will begin my annual phase of faltering when writing the date. My brain will recognize the error a split second after my hand automatically writes “2012.” The New Year is often conceptualized as a fresh start or a blank slate. My husband and I have chosen to capitalize on this concept by setting goals for the coming … [Read more...] about Setting Goals for the New Year
Tragedies as Teachable Moments
Much has been—and will continue to be—said in the wake of the December 14th shooting at Sandy Hook Elementary School. No matter how eloquently, passionately, or convincingly spoken, it is all powerless to restore the lives that were taken on that day or erase the pain being felt by so many. I’m not sure that I have anything exceptionally … [Read more...] about Tragedies as Teachable Moments
Cookies ‘n’ Creme Dark Chocolate Brownies
Around here, baking is often like assembling a jigsaw puzzle. I try to fit together unique components that are of no use on their own, but together form a beautiful (or in this case, tasty) product. Today was no exception as I prepared some goodies for a dessert exchange that will occur during a Christmas party my husband and I will attend … [Read more...] about Cookies ‘n’ Creme Dark Chocolate Brownies
Welcome!
Welcome to Of The Hearth, a blog about faith, family, and forging a difference in our communities. While a hodgepodge of topics are addressed here, all are intended to facilitate growth into Christ’s likeness through the activities of daily life, support cultivation of family, and provide inspiration for making a positive difference in … [Read more...] about Welcome!
