Love… One Sip At A Time // A Valentine Tea Party
I started hosting tea parties in an older home propped as pretty as you please on the corner of a quiet street. A family of four in a two-bedroom, one-bath home made for a tight fit, and tea parties felt downright snug, but no one would change a thing. Some teas were scripture-based, and others celebrated holidays, but every time, the room filled with the scent of scones, floral tea, and...
Sacred Rhythms in 2014
Earlier this week I came across a puny piece of paper with the words Sacred Rhythms: Arranging our Lives for Spiritual Transformation scribbled sideways. I don't recall jotting them down but I've no doubt as to the Prompter. Although I'm only half-way through my latest Kindle download, I appreciate how Ruth Haley Barton tenderly sifts through the truths of spiritual transformation,...
First Gift to Open: Bible
As we bring this series to a close, I'd like to share one last tradition we began with the boys soon after we became Christ followers. On Christmas morning, children are bouncing off walls and even a few adults (whom shall remain nameless) have been known to get giddy about the possibilities lurking in a stocking nearby but the moments just prior to the sound of ripping paper holds the...
Memories in a Mason Jar
Four days until Christmas but it's not too late to create a meaningful gift for a loved one. One of the best Christmas gifts my grandmothers ever received from me (according to them) was a jar of memories. For one, I labeled the mason jar Why I Love You. Inside, she discovered 52 slips of paper (1 a week) with handwritten specific ways I loved her. For the other, I labeled the...
It’s National Go Caroling Day!
Ever been caroling? If not, this is a great year to give it a try. Round up friends, co-workers or your life group, print out some favorite Christmas songs (or download this app), and choose a street in your neighborhood. Knock on the door and start singing! A few songs will do (especially if it's a chilly night!) Consider baking cookies with the group beforehand to share with those you...
A No-TV-Kind-of-Night
Yes, this is the season for Hallmark movies and Christmas classics but those can be recorded. Tonight, let's enjoy time alone or with spouses or families. Crank up your favorite Christmas tunes, turn off the tube, stir your cocoa and pull out a good book, puzzle or game. Prepare thyself for a blessing! For where your treasure is, there your heart will be also. Matthew...
The Being of Worship
One week till Christmas. What better time to slow things down to a hush-like pace for a few moments today? In a culture that dictates doing during this season, the psalmist reminds us of what remains most important—the being. Be still and know that I am God. Psalm 46:10 What's one thing you know about your God that you most...
The Significance of an Empty Present
One thing I've especially enjoyed about this series is being introduced to new ideas from fellow bloggers. Today's idea comes from Natasha Crain's ChristianMomThoughts, Inspiration for Intentional Christian Parenting. It's all about wrapping an empty present under the tree—a beautiful lesson for little ones and adults alike when it comes to the gospel in action. It's a meaningful...
When Crock-Pots and Worship Collide
The closer we get to Christmas, the busier our days tend to become -- which is why today's idea has to do with slowing down, savoring the senses, and enjoying more quality time with the Lord, family and friends. Grab your crock-pot and set the timer for five minutes! That's all the prep time you'll need for one of our favorite recipes, Balsamic Pork Tenderloin. It's quick, easy, and due...
Cathy Baker
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