When you look at baby supply checklists, it is easy to see why people say that babies are so expensive. You’re sure to break the bank if you purchase all of these purported essentials! The good news is that not all of these must-haves are essential. Many are convenient to have, but you’ll do just fine without them. Others are just plain … [Read more...] about Baby “Essentials” You May Want to Skip
pregnancy
A New Adventure for the New Year
We are thrilled to be headed on a new adventure this year: In mid-July my husband and I will welcome our second child! As we bask in the joy of this knowledge, our daughter is busy learning how to correctly hold and love on a baby. When I announced that I was pregnant with my daughter two years ago, I acknowledged that some of … [Read more...] about A New Adventure for the New Year
Affording Stay-At-Home Motherhood
I love telling stories about when my husband and I first met. One of the best stories is how he, during our very first interaction, asked me how many children I wanted. His question didn’t bother me and it set the tone for open, honest communication in our relationship. Given this initial discussion, it likely won’t surprise you that we … [Read more...] about Affording Stay-At-Home Motherhood
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!
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
Modern Pregnancy Celebrations: Nurturing or Narcissistic?
After supporting many friends through pregnancies, I thought I had a pretty good grasp of the breadth of modern pregnancy celebrations. However, when my husband and I were finally blessed with a pregnancy this last spring, I quickly realized that I had no idea how pregnancy is celebrated by a large number of Americans. After announcing … [Read more...] about Modern Pregnancy Celebrations: Nurturing or Narcissistic?
How to Sew Simple Rod Pocket Curtains: A Tutorial for Novices
When my husband and I purchased our home two years ago, we went in search of curtains. I was surprised at how pricy they were! Though I have very rudimentary sewing skills, I decided to purchase fabric and sew my own. Now that we are furnishing a nursery, I purchased some cute fabric and pulled out the sewing machine once again. Rod … [Read more...] about How to Sew Simple Rod Pocket Curtains: A Tutorial for Novices
Surviving Pregnancy in the Summer
Heat and humidity are uncomfortable for most people, but they can be especially burdensome for women who are pregnant. Fortunately, I’ve found that the unpleasant effects of the heat and humidity can be mitigated by several simple strategies. Whether you’re pregnant or not, these strategies can help you beat the heat this summer. How … [Read more...] about Surviving Pregnancy in the Summer
