Meals Ministry Model

I had been looking for ways to get more involved at my church. One evening during a women’s Bible study, our pastor’s wife said that they were looking to start our meals ministry again and she was looking for a few people to head it up. I immediately volunteered. Each of you should use whatever gift you have received to serve others, as faithful stewards of God’s grace in its various forms. (1 Peter 4:10) I had participated in this ministry a number of years ago and knew right away that this was a good place for me. Ideas quickly popped into mind. Having participated previously as a meal provider, I was cognisant of things that had been hindrances for me. I wanted to have established  procedures and make things as streamlined as possible. 

I started with a mission statement. Here’s a sample: ‘The Meals Ministry of (insert church name)’s desire is to serve our church family by providing prepared meals to congregation members experiencing illness, recovery, or the birth of a child. Our goal is to express Christ’s love through practical care, encouragement, and support during times of need.’ I have shown you in every way, by laboring like this, that you must support the weak. And remember the words of the Lord Jesus, that He said, ‘It is more blessed to give than to receive.’ (Acts 20:35) Bear one another’s burdens, and so fulfill the law of Christ. (Galatians 6:2) And let us not grow weary while doing good, for in due season we shall reap if we do not lose heart. Therefore, as we have opportunity, let us do good to all, especially to those who are of the household of faith. (Galatians 6:9-10)

Our church serves a wide area. It was important to me to organize our volunteer meal preparers by general locality to minimize the driving time for delivery. We also wanted to utilize freezer space that we have in the church kitchen. This gave us the ability to have meals on hand if an immediate need arose or no one was available during a given time. Additionally, this allowed for people to participate in a variety of ways. See a sample meal provider sign up form below. The form captures their contact information, location, preferences, and availability. This information is all tracked on a spreadsheet. A sticker was created for food in our freezer (see below) to indicate what the meal is, date prepared, date frozen, ingredients, and preparer. Printable labels with four to a page are utilized for this purpose.

When a call comes into the church office or is brought to the church’s attention, the church notifies one of the two meals ministry lead persons. Lead person will contact the person in need to gather essential information. Sample intake form is provided below. Some information needed will include the number of people in the household, dietary needs/restrictions, food allergies, likes/dislikes, and preferences for number of days and frequency of delivery. Lead person then contacts ministry volunteers and assigns days as appropriate, taking into account their general location, availability, and how frequently a volunteer has been called upon recently. The person’s or family’s needs and requirements are conveyed to the meal preparers. Meal preparer(s) then make contact to confirm a date and delivery time. To keep things manageable, the ministry serves only members of the congregation and usually limits to five days of meals. Lead person follows up in order to gauge more or less need.

Some meals that travel well include casseroles, soups, stews, chilis, pot pies, quiches, lasagna, and other pasta dishes. I came across this website that is very helpful for ideas of what to make that will travel well. Take Them A Meal Recipes are also clearly labeled with potential food allergies and have designations for various types of diets and restrictions, for instance, vegan, paleo, low sodium, gluten free, etc. And a nice final touch…include a card with support and well-wishes. Should you like electronic copies of these documents, message me here, and I will gladly send them to you.

For we are His workmanship, created in Christ Jesus for good works, which God prepared beforehand that we should walk in them. (Ephesians 2:10) So let each one give as he purposes in his heart, not grudgingly or of necessity; for God loves a cheerful giver. (2 Corinthians 9:7)

Pet Prep 101

Esme and Cameo by Diane Fanucci

It’s been a bit since I posted. My computer has been out of commission. I thought that I had completely prepared for the new pet that I had brought into my home. A minute of being lax, created an opportunity for damage. I finished using my computer and set it on the coffee table…half on and half off. My computer became a spring-board for my new cat, Cameo.  The screen was shattered.  So here I am, talking about preparing for a new pet.

First and most important step…research, research, research! It is of utmost importance to know what you are getting into.  Every breed of animal has a set of pretty consistent characteristics that isn’t going to change when you bring them into your house.  My new kitty is a Cornish Rex. Cats of this breed are high energy and very playful. They are intelligent and tend to be expressive vocally. They are people-oriented, exhibiting behaviors that seem somewhat dog-like and they love being held. Their fur is short, tight, and curly, causing them to easily become cold. For this reason, they should be indoor cats. Another important consideration when choosing a pet is being aware of their ongoing maintenance needs. What type of grooming do they require? Is it something that you can do or do you need to take them somewhere for grooming? What are the common physical ailments that they are prone to? Should you consider medical insurance for your pet?

It is important to pet-proof your home prior to bringing them home, with consideration of the particular needs of their breed. Plants are one consideration. Research what plants could potentially be toxic to the animal. Plants in the lily family are toxic to cats. I had one that my church was able to take off my hands. Electrical cords can also be a hazard. Be sure that they are tied up, tucked away, or covered for your pets protection. This is the type of cord cover that I used. It comes in various colors and sizes. Decluttering is essential, especially if items are breakable, valuable, or very important to you. Remember, they’re an animal. You need to consider what could happen. Determine if perimeter fencing may be necessary and identify potential escape routes. After I bought my home, I decided to have a deck built. At the same time, I fenced part of my yard, because I knew I wanted to get a dog. I adopted Esme from the SPCA. Upon picking her up to bring her home, I learned that she was pee-pad trained and doesn’t go outside. LOL…joke’s on me! One of my major concerns was whether Cameo and Esme would get along. I purchased a cat tree tall enough that she would be able to get away from the dog if she needed to. Provide a safe space appropriate to your breed’s characteristics. Other supplies to acquire ahead of time may include a bed, collar, identification tag, leash, toys, food, and treats. Considering an exotic pet? That’s a bit out of my wheelhouse. Here’s a link to get you started.

If you get your pet from a rescue, you may have limited access to medical history, but try to get whatever information you can. It is also good to make an appointment for your pet with a veterinarian for a wellness check. Find out ahead of time what food the pet is currently eating. It is not good to suddenly change an animal’s diet. Your breeder or rescue will most likely give you some food to start you off. If you wish to change their food, do it gradually, mixing in a little bit of the new food at a time, then start to taper off the old food. When you first bring your pet into your home, allow them to explore gradually, as they are comfortable. If you already have other pets in your home, it is best to keep them separated at first.  A safe and calm introduction is the goal. Introduce them slowly, in neutral territory, and don’t leave them unsupervised. To get them used to each other’s scent, you can use a towel or toy that the other animal has been with or allow them to sniff under a door or through a kennel.  At feeding time, it is always a good idea to keep them separate.

Especially during the first few weeks, it is important to spend quality time with your pet. As with children, consistency is important. Treats are great for positive reinforcement. They make a great reward, but don’t go overboard. You don’t want your pet to get overweight. Look for training treats that are small and low in calories. I’m going to start trying click training. Here is an article on clicker training. It involves teaching the cat to associate the clicking sound with a reward (treat), and then continuing to use that sound to reinforce desirable behaviors. Of course, I have also found the spray water bottle to be very effective. Just a few squirts and Cameo no longer gets on the table or counter. Cats and dogs usually pick up on your routines quickly and fall into the pattern of the household. A funny example: Esme knows that the first time I hit the snooze button, she is to leave me alone and when the alarm goes off again, that is her time to be petted and fed. Cameo is already following suit! One thing I was concerned about was how Cameo would behave when I am at work all day. (Esme is in a kennel.) I made her some cardboard scratch pads out of old delivery boxes and interactive toys are great. Here are some options. Cameo loves the one I got for her.

The godly care for their animals, but the wicked are always cruel.  (Proverbs 12:10 - NLT)

What has worked for you? Or not so well? Feel free to comment.

Christian Meditation

Meditate comes from the Latin word, metitat, meaning “contemplated.” Merriam-Webster Dictionary defines meditate as:  engage in contemplation or reflection or to engage in mental exercise (such as concentration on one's breathing or repetition of a mantra) for the purpose of reaching a heightened level of spiritual awareness. We most commonly think of Eastern meditation which is based in Hinduism, Buddhism, and Taoism. However Christian Meditation has existed for a very long time, reaching back to the earliest days of the Church. Jesus modelled this for us by frequently retreating to solitary, quiet places for prayerful reflection. Early Christian meditation was part of Jewish prayer practices of meditating on Scripture. In the 3rd and 4th centuries, the Desert Fathers and Mothers focused on silent prayer and continual remembrance of God. Medieval Monasticism involved structured reading of Scripture, prayer,  meditation, and contemplation. Known by a number of names including contemplative prayer, centering prayer, and The Jesus Prayer, Christian meditation is still practiced to this day.

According to Teresa Yerkes, founder of Christian Meditation Center, Christian meditation is a way of paying attention to God, a time when we’re just still with him and we're just being with him. She has personally benefitted from the practice in the stabilization of her emotions. “[The practice] for me over time has renewed my mind and brought me into a stronger relationship with God. One of the greatest benefits that I received from the practice of Christian meditation is the expansion of the Fruit of the Spirit within me. And you might remember that the Fruit of the Spirit is love, joy, peace, patience, kindness, goodness, faithfulness, gentleness, and self-control. We already carry these beautiful attributes within us, and we’ve all tasted them in different ways. Through Christian meditation, they gradually become less occasional experiences and more a reflection of who we truly are.” She attributes many positive changes in her life to this practice. “It’s a combination of letting things go that are no longer serving us and also bringing things into our life, practices into our life that are supporting a stronger relationship with God, ourselves, and others.  What I have discovered over time through Christian meditation is that love becomes the foundation for everything else that flows from us – our behaviors, our attitudes, and even our thought life.”

The Lord is good to those who wait for Him, To the soul who seeks Him.  (Lamentations 3:25) While there are many ways to practice Christian meditation, Teresa’s basic format is as follows.  Sit in a chair with your hands on your lap. Close your eyes. Start with a prayer. The Lord’s Prayer is fine. Or a prayer of intention or your own prayer to God works too. When you’re finished talking to God, just be silent. Move your attention to your heart center. If you get distracted, focus on your breath to bring you back to your heart center. Notice your breath going in and out to stay centered. Continue this for 15-20 minutes and enjoy your time with God. “That’s a beautiful way of just being with God, not doing anything, just being with Him and allowing ourselves to be open to what He might want to do with us.” 

Abide in Me, and I in you. As the branch cannot bear fruit of itself, unless it abides in the vine, neither can you, unless you abide in Me. (John 15:4) “And so now, our attention is not just thinking about Him, but now our attention is also with Him from our heart, from a place of desiring more of Him. Because when we start out, we start to see how the Holy Spirit is working in our lives and He's changing us. He's renewing our mind and our life is getting better. It might take time, but our life starts to get much better because we are living according to what God has asked us to do. So, it's when we're doing that, we're on a path to peace, and then we move into this relationship in our heart with God that expands our relationship with Him and God opens up in a much broader way for us.”

Teresa Yerkes, the Founder of the Christian Meditation Center, has been a devoted Christian since 1983 and has practiced Christian meditation since 2000. She is the author of five books: Come Closer: The Practice of Christian Meditation, God Within You: The Case for Christian Meditation, Making Love: The Spiritual Act of Love, Julianna and Madeline’s Journey to God’s Peace and Love: A Christian Meditation Adventure, and Divine Parallels: Exploring the Shared Lessons of Jesus in the Bible and A Course in Miracles. She has big plans for the Center.

To see the planned chapel and retreat center: https://www.christianmeditationcenter.org/about/chapel-and-retreat-center/

To learn more, participate in guided meditation sessions, and for many other resources: https://www.christianmeditationcenter.org/

Tightening the Belt on Take-out

Diane’s Chili

In a previous post, Mindful Money Matters on 1/9/2026, I discussed a variety of ways to reign in expenses in the new year and provided many resources. In that post, I also briefly addressed becoming aware of how much money we are spending on take-out and fast food. We often feed our family in this way when our time is limited. Work schedules and children’s activities tend to dictate a hectic pace. As promised, I am circling back with some suggestions for reducing our reliance on fast food and strategies for having more home-made, quick and easy options for feeding the family. She also rises while it is yet night, And provides food for her household, And a portion for her maidservants. (Proverbs 31:15) In the following verse, the Apostle Paul emphasizes that caring for one’s family, especially in providing necessities, is a basic Christian responsibility. But if anyone does not provide for his own, and especially for those of his household, he has denied the faith and is worse than an unbeliever. (1 Timothy 5:8) The Bible also dictates that we are responsible managers of God-given blessings. There is desirable treasure, And oil in the dwelling of the wise, But a foolish man squanders it. (Proverbs 21:20) Wise people are good stewards, saving resources like "choice food and oil," while foolish people squander everything on immediate pleasure. The following provides suggestions for being good stewards of our money and still feeding our families well.

Keeping premade meals in the freezer is probably one of the best ways to combat the take-out issue.  Some foods that freeze well are soups, stews, meatloaf, and chili. I also like to keep things like frittatas and muffins for breakfast on the go. The easiest way to start is to make extra when you do cook. Package for the freezer in ways that will defrost more easily and take up minimal space. Individual portions allow for flexibility. You can take out only as many as you need at that time. Also, individual portions defrost more easily and can be manipulated into where there is room in your freezer. To help with defrosting, prepare ahead and put in the refrigerator the night before. These Rubbermaid containers are my favorite for this purpose.  They stack well, are BPA free, leakproof, and dishwasher, microwave and freezer safe. Other foods, you can just wrap in plastic wrap and they take even less space in the freezer.  This works well for slices of meatloaf and squares of sheet pan quesadillas (recipe to follow). 

Having parts of meals prepared ahead of time and stashed in the freezer is another strategy that works well. I always have grilled chicken in my freezer. Whenever chicken breasts are on sale at the grocery store, I stock up. Breasts can be pounded out or sliced into thinner pieces. I marinate in Italian dressing and cook on the grill. After grilling, slice the chicken into strips, freeze on a foil or waxed paper lined cookie sheet (so pieces don’t freeze together), then place in a zip-locked bag. You can take out the amount of chicken you need, easily defrost, and throw together a chicken caesar salad or chicken fajitas. Consider other things that you could have already cooked off and ready to go like sausage or hamburger for quick and easy recipes. A few more tips: Consider trying other grains like quinoa or barley. They freeze better than pasta. If freezing pasta, always add a little water before reheating. Limit the number of bulky boxes of processed foods, like frozen pizzas that take up a lot of room in your freezer. Keep veggies in your freezer that come in microwavable bags for easy pairing with meatloaf, etc.

I am including my recipe for chili as well as links to a number of other recipes that I like to make and have in my freezer.

Diane’s Chili

1lb ground turkey

1(10.75oz) can Condensed Tomato Soup

1(14.5oz) can Petite Diced Tomatoes

1(15.25oz) can Pinto Beans

1(15.25oz) can Black Beans

1 medium yellow onion chopped

1 large green pepper chopped

2 medium potatoes diced (optional)

1tsp Mexican Seasoning

1/2tsp Chili Powder

1/2tsp Italian Seasoning

1/2tsp sugar

Salt (to taste)

1) In large pot, brown and crumble ground turkey.

2) Add both cans of tomatoes and both cans of beans. Cook on medium heat stirring frequently.

3) Chop onion and green pepper and add to pot. Continue to cook on medium heat.

4) Dice potatoes into small cubes and add to pot. (Potatoes are optional, I like for additional texture and increased yield)

5) Add Mexican seasoning, chili powder, Italian seasoning, sugar, and salt. All seasonings can be adjusted to taste.

6) Cook on medium heat, stirring frequently until pot boils well and vegetables start to soften.

7) Turn to simmer and put lid on pot tilted, leaving a small opening. Cook for 40 minutes, stirring occasionally.

Other Recipes:

Sheet Pan Quesadillas

Frittata Muffins

Best Meatloaf

Bisquick Sausage Muffins

Kiwi Muffins

Healthy Blueberry Muffins

Turkey Stuffing Meatloaf

Beef Stew

Do you have any recipes that you like to make ahead and freeze? Please share.

Why Me?

Subtitle: There Will Be Days Like These

Yesterday, I got to work and started to unpack things from my bag, just as I normally do. I pulled out my big, insulated water bottle and held it against my body to leave my hands free. I quickly discovered that I had grapefruit juice down the front of my light colored top. Why me? Packing my lunch the night prior, I put some grapefruit slices in a container.  I strained them and the container had a rubber gasket in the lid and four tightly snapped clasps. I thought about putting it in a ziploc baggie as I usually do, but thought, “It’s never leaked before.” I further discovered grapefruit juice in the bottom of my brand new bag that I had just gotten as a gift for Christmas. I went about cleaning up my bag and my shirt, but when I opened up my insulated lunch pouch to clean it up, it was dry. Huh? How did that happen?!? How did it leak in my bag and get on my shirt and not even wet the pouch it was in? The closest I can guess is that the spot that leaked from the container was perfectly aligned with the corner of the zipper on the pouch and dripped through it without wetting the pouch. I could not do that if I tried!

Some people might call this Murphy’s Law…anything that can go wrong, will go wrong. Or is it the Devil trying to pull us down and keep us distracted? Oh, did I mention that at 5:00am on this same morning, I pulled myself out of bed, wrapped my robe around me, and went to the bathroom. I stood up and as I tied the belt, I discovered that the belt end had landed in the toilet bowl. I was slopping toilet water around the bathroom. I know…gross! Ugh…my life is just a comedy of errors!  Why me?!? For the last several weeks, I have been feeling overwhelmed by little things that seem to go wrong every few minutes. Yesterday, I thought, “There must be a story in here.”

Again this morning, my day starts with a 5:00am alarm. Thankfully, no toilet mishaps. Whew! While going about my usual morning routine, I take a gulp of coffee. Several weeks back, I had the flu and still have a little residual cough. The coffee hit my throat funny and before I could swallow, a coughing fit came on. I tried so hard to hold it in, but of course, I wind up spraying my mouthful of coffee across my bedroom. Why me?!? Right now you’re saying, “This woman is a trainwreck.” I cleaned it up and finally got out of the door. Leaving my deck, I have a gate at the top of the steps. I open the gate, start down the steps, and close the gate behind me. Suddenly, I am yanked to a stop. The lanyard on my keys was sticking out of my bag and managed to lasso the latch. Another, I couldn’t do this if I tried. I untangled everything and made it to my car. Arriving at work, I see someone else pulling into my favorite parking spot. Missed it by five seconds! Why me?!? “This story is happening today.”

Yes, apparently, my life is a comedy of errors. I know you too sometimes have days like these. We all do. Sometimes we feel like the whole world is out to get us. And yes, I do believe that much of it is the Devil trying to keep us off kilter, and distracted, and ungrateful. We must remain mindful of this. It is easy to let these daily unpleasantries make us angry and have an ugly disposition. This is not who I want to be. This is not who God wants us to be. All that does is make us unappreciative and ungracious toward all that God does for us and keeps us from being a light in this world. You are the light of the world. A city that is set on a hill cannot be hidden. Nor do they light a lamp and put it under a basket, but on a lampstand, and it gives light to all who are in the house. Let your light so shine before men, that they may see your good works and glorify your Father in heaven. (Matthew 5:14-16)

This morning, I found myself saying, “If these are my problems, thank God!” For the most part, I am in good health. I have a beautiful family who loves me. I have a decent income. I have many talents that I enjoy. I’m not in an abusive relationship. I have food to eat. My children are healthy and gainfully employed. My beautiful granddaughter is healthy. I have a wonderful church family. These past few weeks, I have had an ongoing back issue flare up and I quickly was reminded that nearly all house chores involve bending over in some way. “If these are my problems, thank God!” I have a home to do chores in. I live in a country that allows women to own property. I don’t live in a country ravaged by war or famine. And I live in a country that allows me to worship my Lord and Savior without fear of persecution. So in all things, including your problems, give thanks to the Lord. Rejoice always, pray without ceasing, in everything give thanks; for this is the will of God in Christ Jesus for you. (1 Thessalonians 5:16-18) Our lives are in the Lord’s hands, His plans, and in His time. Remember and be ever mindful of the Devil at your heels…always trying to trip you up. Finally, my brethren, be strong in the Lord and in the power of His might. Put on the whole armor of God, that you may be able to stand against the wiles of the devil. (Ephesians 6:10-11)

I hope you were able to have a few chuckles at my expense. (And I hope I have a better morning tomorrow morning!) Have you had days like these? Please share some of your “Why Me’s?” Or should we call them daily bloopers?

Mindful Money Matters

     As much as we dislike to think on these matters, now is the best time to set some financial goals.  Whether you wish to get out of debt or save for retirement, it is essential to take an intentional approach. Consider your daily behaviors; staying present and mindful, not acting out of habit or lack of impulse control. Your spending behaviors must align with your long term goals. Prioritizing your financial goals will also have the added benefit of peace-of-mind. It is important to create a written spending plan. I have heard it recommended to use the 50-30-20 rule. Spend 50 percent of your income on necessities, 30 percent on wants, and 20 percent on savings and debt reduction. Depending on your income, age, values, and specific goals, you may need to adjust these numbers a little more conservatively.  And of utmost importance, be clear on what is a want and what is a true need.

     Being in debt is an unpleasant place to be, especially if you are carrying large balances on your credit cards. According to TransUnion, one of the largest credit reporting agencies in the U.S., average credit card debt per person in September 2025 was $6,523 and the average interest rate was 22.83 percent. Calculated on Greenpath, if this is your debt and interest rate, and you only make the minimum payment, it would take nearly 14 years to pay it off and cost you double. While credit card debt is considered short-term debt, it can start to feel like an eternity. The rich rule over the poor, and the borrower is slave to the lender. (Proverbs 22:7 NIV) If at all possible, pay off your credit card balances every month. This may seem impossible now, but is achievable with systematic, mindful practices and the right tools.

     Most people, it seems, have moved away from paying with cash. We just throw everything on our cards. This can be a good thing if you have cards with good rewards programs, but again, this only works to your benefit if you pay the balances every month.  I have all of my accounts set up to pay the full amount automatically every month, however, this only works if you have a good cushion or overdraft protection.  Also, most accounts of all types have gone paperless.  When your statement came in the mail, there was the possibility that you would look it over.  Having to log-in to access it online may make that less likely.  Make a habit of checking your bank account and credit card statements regularly.  In this way, you can identify patterns and bad habits or even mistakes and identity theft. Seeing your daily $6+ Starbuck’s coffee and frequent stops for fast food can add up very quickly. (Stay tuned for an upcoming post with tips for feeding yourself and your family when time is at a minimum.)

     It is very easy to forget about a myriad of subscriptions that you’ve signed up for over time and may not even use anymore. Checking your statements can bring these to your attention and make a quick, easy way to make budget cuts. I like to sign up for streaming services or educational services when companies offer special pricing. I don’t like when I forget to cancel them and wind up paying full price. Be sure to put these things in your calendar or make reminders on your phone so you cancel them before the renewal date.  There are also many budgeting apps, like Rocket Money, that now identify subscriptions for you that you may have forgotten about. The down side of these apps is that they usually have a monthly fee and you need to share your account information on them. If you think you may find an app beneficial for your financial planning goals, you may want to check out this article, 7 Best Subscription Manager Apps to Track and Cancel Recurring Charges [2026 Guide].The author does recommend a few free options: Empower or Rocket Money’s free version.

     Here are a few other beneficial resources.  The U.S. Securities and Exchange Commission’s investor.gov offers many financial tools and calculators, investing information, avoiding scams, and much more. Free financial online courses and a free financial hotline can be accessed at savvyladies.org.

     Biblical principles also guide how we should be good stewards of the resources God allows us to be managers over.  We need to be disciplined and responsible, living within our means, mindfully overseeing what God has provided for us.  The earth is the LORD’s, and everything in it. The world and all its people belong to him. (Psalm 24:1 NLT) We must also have a heart of gratitude and trust in the Lord. Command those who are rich in this present world not to be arrogant nor to put their hope in wealth, which is so uncertain, but to put their hope in God, who richly provides us with everything for our enjoyment. (1 Timothy 6:17 NIV)  I welcome your comments, hearing what has worked well for you, and your successes.

Begin Anew

A study by Statista shows that in the United States, the top ten New Year's resolutions in 2025 included: to exercise more, save more money, eat healthier, spend more time with family and friends, lose weight, do more for the environment, improve performance on the job, reduce stress on the job, spend less time on social media, and quit smoking.¹  Pretty much what you expected, right?  They are all good and noble things to do and I’m sure that any of them may have a positive impact on your life. However, another study by DriveResearch, indicates that only eight percent of those who make resolutions will follow through on them and 23% quit by the end of the first week.²

Psychology Today suggests some of the most common reasons people fail to follow through are an all-or-nothing attitude, their goals are vague or unrealistic, or that they don’t have an understanding of their why.³ Most people have heard about setting SMART goals: Specific, Measurable, Achievable, Relevant, and Time-bound. This method can be effective if you tend to set goals that are vague or unrealistic, but this is a little bit like a band-aid. If your downfall is that you have an all-or-nothing attitude, that is, you give up as soon as you slip-up, that’s a difficult one to overcome. You must be kinder to yourself. Know that God wants you to succeed. Every day is a new day and you can start over again. Often the greatest successes come from what we learn in failure. The faithful love of the Lord never ends! His mercies never cease. Great is His faithfulness; His mercies begin afresh each morning. (Lamentations 3:22-23 NLT)  

What is critical to success is knowing why you want to achieve your goal. Might I suggest a more holistic approach…living intentionally.  Living intentionally starts with understanding what you value.  When you focus on what is intrinsically important to you, your why is more easily identified. And with a clear why, the work is easier. It involves being more mindful and present in your daily activities, not being on “autopilot,” and purposefully aligning your choices with your beliefs. You will still want to set short-term and long-term goals, but through self-awareness and introspection make slight modifications as you go. Making adjustments allows you to grow at your own speed, discover what works and what doesn’t work, keep aligned with your values, be kind to yourself, and succeed. For I know the thoughts that I think toward you, says the Lord, thoughts of peace and not of evil, to give you a future and a hope. (Jeremiah 29:11)

In Romans 6:4, the Apostle Paul writes, Therefore we were buried with Him through baptism into death, that just as Christ was raised from the dead by the glory of the Father, even so we also should walk in newness of life. In the “newness” of 2026, I hope you find great success with whatever your New Year’s resolutions may be and if you don’t yet know our Lord, that you will find trust in Christ for your salvation.

¹Statista

²DriveResearch

³Psychology Today

Feel free to leave your thoughts on living intentionally or just let us know what goals you have for the upcoming year.

Freshening Up a Bit

These days, I live alone in my little house. I love it! Don’t get me wrong. My adorable little house provides everything I need. However, I had decided that I wasn’t going to put up my tree this year. My thought process went kind of like this: It’s too much of a struggle to get it out of the basement. It takes up too much space in the house. It’s just me. No one else will probably even see it. It will look the same as it does every year. Then it struck me that maybe I just needed to freshen up my decorations. I started with a new tree that is easier for me to handle. Then I found a ribbon on Etsy that is gorgeous and paired some new ornaments with the ribbon. I am so happy with the outcome. Along the way, I was reminded that it’s not about me, or my house, or the tree that I put up. It’s about the King who came into this world as a baby and died on the cross to pay for all of my sins. It’s all about Him and celebrating His joyous birth. I just needed to do a little house cleaning and putting things in the proper place. Create in me a clean heart, O God, And renew a steadfast spirit within me. (Psalm 51:10) A little freshening up never hurt anyone.

I encourage you to try something a little new this Christmas season…to change things up a little. It could be a new ribbon on your tree or stringing popcorn instead. Whatever it is, let it rekindle your spirit as you wish our Lord and Savior a happy birthday. Remain steadfast in His love. But those who wait on the Lord shall renew their strength; they shall mount up with wings like eagles, they shall run and not be weary, they shall walk and not faint. (Isaiah 40:31)

On a side note…the devil did try to sneak in to foil my plans. My new ribbon went on a voyage all over Kentucky, then from Louisville to Chicago, and Chicago back to Louisville. Last I checked, it just says “in transit.” Many thanks to Laura at RibbonTown for shipping out my beautiful ribbon a second time!

The Ultimate Gift

     Have you ever considered why we give gifts at Christmas? Thanksgiving is done and the shopping commences. “It’s just what we always do.”  Stop and take a moment to recognize and treasure The Ultimate Gift.  For unto us a Child is born, Unto us a Son is given; And the government will be upon His shoulder.  And His name will be called Wonderful, Counselor, Mighty God, Everlasting Father, Prince of Peace. (Isaiah 9:6)  For God so loved the world that He gave His only begotten Son, that whoever believes in Him should not perish but have everlasting life. For God did not send His Son into the world to condemn the world, but that the world through Him might be saved. (John 3:16-17)  As the Wise Men brought gifts to honor Jesus, they established a precedent for giving gifts in honor of Him.  In doing so, we remember God’s ultimate gift to humanity, His only begotten Son.

Keeping this present in your mind, the holiday rush and gathering of gifts will be ever so much more joyful.  Sometimes, finding just the right gift is very difficult.  Do you have people on your list who have everything they could possibly want or need?  Try moving away from material things.  Most of us don’t need more “stuff.”  There are many, many ways to give thoughtful gifts that don’t have to break the bank.  Think about skills and talents that you have.  Are there things that you can make?  Consumable items are good too because they won’t add to accumulating possessions.  Consider experiences that someone may enjoy or something that they might like to learn.  And something that we all have, that we can give, is the gift of our time.  We can “gift” others our assistance in many ways.  Stay focused on the why of Christmas and take joy in your gift giving.  The apostle Paul writes in 2 Corinthians 9:7-8, So let each one give as he purposes in his heart, not grudgingly or of necessity; for God loves a cheerful giver. And God is able to make all grace abound toward you, that you, always having all sufficiency in all things, may have an abundance for every good work.

     I love gifts of experiences.  Consider things to do in your area.  You could give tickets to a local museum or other spot of cultural interest.  Little add-ons could be a snack bag for the day or a book for journaling interesting things they observed or learned.  A fun idea is a gift card to a movie theater.  You can package it with a few theater type boxes of candy.  Another excellent idea is the gift of knowledge.  Do you have ideas about what someone on your list might want to learn?  You could give them an app for learning a language.  There are many types of learning experiences both in person and virtually.  One time my sisters gave me a pottery class as a gift because they knew that was something I wanted to learn.  Check around your area for cooking classes, painting classes, or martial arts lessons.  The possibilities are unlimited.  Some people love pampering and self-care.  A facial or massage might be just the right fit.

     For some people on your list, the gift of your time may be the most prized gift they receive.  Do you know an overworked mom?  Give her a handmade gift certificate for an afternoon to herself.  Take her kids on an excursion for the day.  You could pair it with some calming essential oils or some bath bombs.  Some older people may be in need of someone to help them around the house.  Gift them a day of yard work or have them make you a “to-do” list for chores around the house.  

     Have you ever considered sustainable gifts?  Practice good stewardship by visiting thrift shops, vintage stores or antique and collectable shops.  Up-cycling and vintage is currently all the rage!  You can find many inexpensive items that can easily be refinished, refurbished, or made into something completely different.  An interesting bowl or container can become a potted plant.  An old wooden cutting board can be sanded and re-oiled and paired with a jar of olives and some crackers and cheese (aged Gouda or Asiago are good options not requiring refrigeration).  Find a quality frame and add a print or photograph.  Don’t forget that you may even be able to negotiate a better price.

     Handmade and homemade items are a favorite.  Use your skills and show someone that you cared to take the time to make something personally for them.  Do you knit?  Make a scarf to match their favorite jacket.  Do you like to embroider?  Embroider them a picture of their home or maybe their “fur-baby.”  Are you talented with woodworking?  Make them a wall shelf to display their nick-nack collections.  One year I sewed calico bunnies and teddy bears for my nieces and personalized sweatshirts for my nephews.  I also like making Mason jar mixes with recipes for soups, cookies, and more.  You layer the dry ingredients in the jar and attach the directions for the recipient to complete the preparation.  A few ideas are below.

     Find joy and blessings in the gifts you give this holiday season!  Give, and it will be given to you: good measure, pressed down, shaken together, and running over will be put into your bosom. For with the same measure that you use, it will be measured back to you. (Luke 6:38)  I wish you and your family a beautiful, joyful, and blessed Christmas!

Do you have any great gift ideas to share?  Please feel free to leave comments.

The Bounty of Hospitality

By now, most are deeply embroiled in decorating, assembling of presents, baking of cookies, and all of the merrymaking (and sometimes entrapments) of the holiday season.  Many have longstanding Christmas traditions and others are just starting to make new ones.  In any case, hospitality will be practiced in many ways.  You may be hosting the main family Christmas Day meal, preparing Seven Fishes on Christmas Eve, having relatives staying with you from out of town, or just having your book club over for an afternoon tea and gift exchange.  

The word “hospitality” comes from the Latin word “hospes.”  Interestingly, in Latin, that is the word for both “host” and “guest.”  This implies a mutual nature in which both parties play a role.  It is a give and take relationship.  When we are a host, we wish for our guests to be comfortable, happy, well fed, and entertained.  When we are a guest, we must be gracious, appreciative, receptive, and tolerant.  Hospitality can and does involve entertaining, but hospitality is not entertaining.  It is more so a mindset.  There is no perfect way to implement hospitality.  When in doubt, err on the side of simplicity.  Be perceptive of the needs and feelings of your guests, but know they will be more comfortable if you are not stressed.  I Peter 4:8-9 says, And above all things have fervent love for one another, for “love will cover a multitude of sins.”  Be hospitable to one another without grumbling.  (NKJV) If you are receiving guests this holiday season, please know, they won’t remember what they received.  They will remember how they were received.

On a grander scale, hospitality encompasses so much more.  God calls upon us to be hospitable to our fellow man.  When God’s people are in need, be ready to help them. Always be eager to practice hospitality.  (Romans 12:13 NLT)  We do this by serving and loving our neighbors.  There are so many lonely people in this world.  It is even possible for people to be surrounded by others and still be lonely.  They may lack real connection or have low self-worth, anxiety, and difficulty fitting in. Christmas and the holiday season can intensify this feeling.  Any and every small gesture can make a big difference in someone’s life.  Even a smile in passing can tell them that they are seen.  

“But I am the one in need of hospitality.”  Do you feel this way?  Being hospitable to others is the gift that gives back to you.  Just thinking of others and seeing how they are uplifted can be the most uplifting thing for you.  Hebrews 13:2 says, Don’t forget to show hospitality to strangers, for some who have done this have entertained angels without realizing it! (NLT)  Do you know someone in your neighborhood who is largely shut in?  Take them a container of soup or some cookies with a Christmas wish.  One day I was purchasing some soft-pretzels.  Well, it made more sense to purchase a big quantity (so much more economical).  When I got home and realized how silly that was, I took some to neighbors.  A simple thing, but again, hospitality is a mind set.  Jesus said, But when you give a feast, invite the poor, the maimed, the lame, the blind.  And you will be blessed, because they cannot repay you; for you shall be repaid at the resurrection of the just. (Luke 14:13-14 NKJV)

At all times, but especially in this Christmas season, be cognizant of the needs of those around you.  You don’t have to have great means to make a difference.  Just remember to love on each other.  One small act of kindness can make a world of difference to someone else.  See people, be present, and be genuine.  That is all it takes for you to show hospitality.  The Apostle Paul in Romans 15:7 (NKJV) says, Therefore receive one another, just as Christ also received us, to the glory of God.

Starting Simply, Living Fully

Photo by Diane Fanucci

As this is my first post on my new blog, I would like to provide an overview of where I see this going and a glimpse into how I try to live my life.  But let’s start by defining Unpretentious Abundance.  Unpretentious - not pretentious; free from ostentation, pomp, elegance, or affectation; modest.  Abundance - a great quantity, overflowing fullness, plentiful supply of means or resources.  Unpretentious Abundance sounds very much like an oxymoron…and it is.  It is because Unpretentious Abundance is about living a life of balance.  Over my lifetime, I have experienced times of financial poverty, as well as times of financial wealth.  But what I have learned about myself is that I want the least that I need to be comfortable and happy.  The more you have, the more you have to take care of.  I don’t like feeling burdened by “stuff.”  At times, my posts may reflect a minimalist slant.  However, I do feel that I truly live abundantly.  

There are a wide range of areas that I will be exploring in this blog.  There will be discussions on finances - debt, budgeting, credit cards, thoughtful giving;  media literacy - fake news and bias, clickbait, scams and fraud; consumerism - consumer protection, product reviews, discounts, bartering; “green” consumerism - sustainability, repurposing, up-cycling; and all things home - hospitality, cooking, decorating, parenting, fashion, fitness, gardening; and so much more. 

There is another integral and essential piece to this puzzle of living an abundant life.  It isn’t just about material possessions.  To live a happy and balanced life, we must also seek spiritual abundance, including joy, peace, love and hope.  This is the abundance that results from a personal relationship with Jesus Christ, our Lord and Savior.  John 10:10 says, The thief does not come except to steal, and to kill, and to destroy. I have come that they may have life, and that they may have it more abundantly.  Our God wants us to have full, prosperous, and happy lives. And you shall remember the Lord your God, for it is He who gives you power to get wealth, that He may establish His covenant which He swore to your fathers, as it is this day. (Deuteronomy 8:18)  We must trust in His promises to provide for us.

God is the source of all provision.  He wants us to have faith in that provision.  And in that provision, we need to be grateful; we must demonstrate good stewardship; and we must exhibit generosity.  Unpretentious Abundance is about being open to all of God’s bounty, living your best life, and seeing Christ in and throughout your daily life.  I hope you take this journey with me.