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A close-up of a decorated Christmas tree with vintage glass toys.

Embrace Something New This Christmas Weekend The holidays are such a special time, but sometimes we get so wrapped up in the hustle and bustle that we forget to pause and enjoy the simple pleasures. This Christmas weekend, I’m taking a step back from all the to-dos and embracing something new—something lighthearted, fun, and a little out of the ordinary. I want to invite you to join me in breaking the routine and making this holiday weekend one to remember, even in the smallest ways. First up, I’m going to indulge in one of my favorite simple pleasures: s’mores! Now, I know this might not be your typical Christmas treat, but there’s something about toasted marshmallows that screams cozy vibes to me. Instead of going outdoors and lighting a fire, I’m going to make s’mores right in the oven. The gooey, melty marshmallows and the little bit of char are just so comforting. It’s not about perfection—it's about the joy of doing something a little different. Maybe you’ve got a little sweet craving, too, so why not make a batch and curl up on the couch with some holiday tunes or a good book? S’mores in the Oven Here’s a simple recipe for making s’mores in your oven: Ingredients: Graham crackers Marshmallows Chocolate bars (milk or dark, your choice) Steps: 1. Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). 2. Arrange graham crackers: Break your graham crackers in half and place them on a baking sheet. 3. Add chocolate: Place a piece of chocolate on each graham cracker. 4. Top with marshmallows: Put a marshmallow (or two) on top of the chocolate. 5. Bake: Place the baking sheet in the oven for about 5-7 minutes, or until the marshmallows are golden and slightly toasted. 6. Assemble: Carefully remove the s’mores from the oven and top with another graham cracker. 7. Enjoy: Let them cool slightly (if you can resist) and then dive in! Tip: If you love that extra toasted flavor, you can use a kitchen torch to toast the marshmallows after baking. Enjoy these cozy treats while watching your favorite Christmas movie or reading a book by the fireplace. And then, I’m going to try something I've never done before: making my own candle! With the scent of pine, cinnamon, and cloves filling the air, I thought it would be fun to try crafting my own holiday candle. It’s a little DIY project to bring some creativity into the holiday weekend, and even if it doesn’t turn out exactly how I imagine, at least I’ll have a fun new tradition to try next Christmas. Who knows? Maybe it’ll become a little yearly ritual! DIY Holiday Candle Tutorial Here’s an easy way to make your own scented candles for the holidays: What You’ll Need: Wax (soy wax is easy to work with and burns cleanly) A container or jar (mason jars work great) Wick (you can find them online or at craft stores) Essential oils (cinnamon, pine, or vanilla are perfect for the holiday season) A double boiler (or a makeshift one with a pot and a glass bowl) Stirring stick (wooden dowels or chopsticks work) Steps: 1. Melt the wax: Use a double boiler to melt your wax. Fill the bottom pot with water and bring it to a gentle simmer. Place the wax in the top pot or glass bowl, stirring occasionally, until it’s fully melted (about 10-15 minutes). 2. Prepare the jar: While the wax is melting, secure the wick to the bottom of your container using a dab of melted wax or glue. Make sure the wick is centered. 3. Add essential oils: Once your wax is melted, remove it from heat. Stir in 15-20 drops of essential oil (depending on how strong you want the scent) and mix well. 4. Pour the wax: Carefully pour the melted wax into your prepared container. Leave about half an inch at the top. Make sure the wick stays centered as you pour. 5. Let it set: Allow the candle to cool and harden for 4-6 hours. If you see the wax sink around the wick, add a little more melted wax to fill the top. 6. Trim the wick: Once the candle has fully set, trim the wick to about 1/4 inch. 7. Enjoy your homemade candle! You’ve created a cozy holiday gift for yourself or someone else. Light it up and let the warm, comforting scent fill your space. This Christmas weekend is about embracing the joy of trying something new—whether that’s a fun holiday treat, a craft, or simply stepping out of your usual routine. I know it’s easy to get caught up in expectations, but what if we let ourselves be a little spontaneous this year? If we make something a little quirky or different, we’ll have a new memory to look back on, one that isn’t about the perfect meal or the perfect moment but about making space for some fun and creativity in the holiday season. So if you’re like me and love trying new things, take a break this Christmas and embrace the simple joys of doing something out of the ordinary. Whether it’s making a sweet treat like s’mores or trying your hand at a DIY project, there’s beauty in the small moments. And hey, if it doesn’t go as planned, that’s okay too! It’s about enjoying the process and creating memories that will last. Whatever your holiday weekend looks like, remember that there’s no “right” way to celebrate. Whether you’re alone, with family, or just taking it easy, there’s always room for a little creativity and joy. So let’s embrace a new tradition, take a break, and celebrate the season in our own special way.Kathe'rine&nbsp;

Embrace Something New This Christmas Weekend

Emerald Lake with wooden cottage and snowman in falling snow at Yoho national park, Canada

A Cozy, Carefree Christmas Imagine it’s Christmas Day, and the world outside feels still and peaceful. You’ve got a warm pot roast slow-cooking in the oven, your favorite holiday movie (Charlie Brown Christmas, of course!) ready to play, and an electric blanket waiting to wrap you up in comfort. No hustle, no stress—just you, cozy in your pajamas, ready to enjoy the day at your own pace. This year, I’m keeping things simple, and I’d love for you to join me in creating new holiday traditions, whatever that looks like for you. Maybe it’s not the usual turkey or ham—who says pot roast can’t be festive? Maybe you’re curling up with a good book, lighting a candle, and just letting yourself be still for once. It’s about taking a break, embracing the little joys, and making the day feel like a gift just for you. If you’re feeling like you want a little more connection, there’s always the option to get out and do something different—maybe volunteer at a local shelter, watch a community performance, or take a peaceful walk to soak in the holiday spirit. Sometimes, stepping out of our own space for a bit can lift our spirits in ways we didn’t expect. And when you come back home, you’ll appreciate the warmth and comfort even more. But if you’re like me, this year might be about settling in and savoring those simple pleasures—hot chocolate with peppermint, a slice of pumpkin pie, and maybe even a holiday movie marathon. There’s something beautiful about slowing down and just enjoying the moment. So here’s my invitation to you: take this Christmas Day and make it your own. Whether you’re surrounded by family or having a quiet day to yourself, let it be a time of peace, rest, and comfort. Light a fire (or a cozy candle), get into your comfiest pajamas, and let the day unfold however you choose. Remember, there’s no right or wrong way to celebrate. The holidays are about creating moments that feel special to you, no matter how small or simple they are. Wishing you a warm, peaceful, and joy-filled Christmas Day. Let’s savor the sweetness of it all, stay safe, and let ourselves be. Kathe'rine&nbsp;

A Cozy, Carefree Christmas

Serene latin woman enjoy sunset with gratitude

Introduction: The Gift of Life and Love“As we move through the year and approach the holidays, it’s easy to think of December as a time for giving, but I want to remind us that every day is an opportunity to give and to bring love into the world. Just as birds are born and given wings to fly, we, too, have been given the incredible gift of life. Each one of us has been given a purpose, and no matter what we’ve been through, there is beauty in the fact that we are still here—still growing, still moving forward.”The Power of Bringing Life Into the World“Bringing life into the world doesn’t just mean the birth of a baby; it’s also about bringing hope, joy, and love into the lives of others. Every act of kindness, every moment of love we share, has the power to uplift someone else. It’s a reminder that no matter how hard life can be, we are still capable of creating something beautiful."The Gift of This Website: Walking Together in Healing“This website, Sparrows of Hope, has been a lifeline for me, and I hope it can be that for you too. It has given me the strength to encourage others, and it’s reminded me that none of us are walking this journey alone. We are all walking it out together. When we share our stories, when we offer support, it becomes a reminder that healing doesn’t happen in isolation—it happens in community."“I want you to know that even as you navigate your own journey, you are not just walking it out by yourself. I’m walking this with you, and so is this community. We are all in this together.”The Importance of Blankets: A Symbol of Comfort and Support“One of the most beautiful ways we can show love and care for others is through the gift of these blankets. Every blanket that we send out is more than just a piece of fabric—it’s a symbol of comfort, warmth, and support. It’s a reminder to survivors that they are seen, they are loved, and they are not forgotten. The simple act of wrapping a blanket around someone is a way of saying, ‘You matter, and you are not alone.’"“For many survivors, these blankets are a lifeline. Whether they’re sent to someone nearby or mailed across the country, they reach people in some of their darkest moments, offering a small but powerful reminder that they are cared for. And we need your help to continue this mission. Each blanket we send out requires resources, from the cost of the blankets themselves to the postage to get them to where they need to go."The Importance of Donations: Supporting the Mission Together“This is where we need your support. Every donation, no matter how small, goes directly to helping survivors feel the warmth and care they so desperately need. Your donations allow us to send these blankets, to keep this ministry going, and to continue reaching out to survivors who need to feel seen and loved."“When you donate, you’re not just giving money—you’re giving love, hope, and compassion. You’re helping us bring comfort to someone who has experienced deep pain, and you’re walking this journey of healing with us. Every contribution makes a difference, and together, we can continue to spread love and support to those who need it most.”A Christmas Eve Reminder: Safe, Loved, and Supported“As we come together to celebrate the joy of Christmas Eve, let’s remember that life itself is a precious gift. We are like birds learning to fly—taking steps, spreading our wings, and growing stronger every day. And just as birds need time to soar, so do we. Healing is a journey, and it’s okay to take your time. Whether you’re starting to find your wings or still in the nest, know that you are loved, supported, and never alone." Kathe'rine&nbsp;

Introduction: The Gift of Life and Love

Two little snowmen in caps on snow in the winter. Background with a funny snowman. Christmas card.

Embracing the Simple Joys of Christmas This Christmas, let’s take a deep breath and give ourselves permission to simply be. After all the hard work we’ve been doing, it’s time to focus on the small things that bring us happiness—the little moments of peace and comfort that are gifts in themselves. Think about what makes the holidays feel special to you. Maybe it’s a cup of hot chocolate with a swirl of peppermint, that first sip warming your soul. Or perhaps it’s curling up with a cozy blanket and diving into a good book, letting the story transport you somewhere magical. There’s something about this time of year that invites us to slow down and soak up the quiet joys we sometimes overlook. What if we made it a tradition to pause during the Christmas season? To give ourselves the gift of a break—a real break, where we put aside the pressures and challenges for just a little while and focus on doing things that bring us comfort and joy. Whether it’s baking cookies, watching your favorite Christmas movie, or listening to a classic holiday song like "O Holy Night" or "Have Yourself a Merry Little Christmas," find what makes your heart feel light and embrace it fully. Christmas is a time for love, warmth, and connection. But it's also a time to give ourselves some grace and remember that it’s okay to just enjoy the season. No expectations, no stress—just simple pleasures. Maybe this year, we can start a new tradition of joyful rest—finding time to celebrate the beauty of the holidays in whatever way feels right for you. Whether it’s spending time with loved ones, or treating yourself to a quiet evening with hot cocoa and your favorite Christmas playlist, let this be your time to recharge. As we wrap ourselves in the warmth of the season, let’s remind ourselves that the best gift we can give is the gift of peace—peace in our hearts, peace in our homes, and peace in the moments we choose to slow down and simply be. Wishing you all a Merry Christmas filled with comfort, joy, and the simple pleasures that make this season so special. Stay safe, stay and remember to take time for you.Kathe'rine&nbsp;

Embracing the Simple Joys of Christmas

Small Business Philanthropy: Restaurant Preparing Free Food and Feeding Local Community for Thanksgiving Day or Memorial Service. Volunteers Give Away Meals for Charity.

The Power of Giving Back: Healing Through Service Have you ever thought about what it means to give back to others? It’s easy to think of it as a nice gesture, something we do when we have extra time or resources. But what if giving back was more than that? What if it was a way to heal yourself, to rewrite your own story, and to create change in the lives of others? When we talk about giving, it’s important to start with giving to yourself first. Imagine you’re preparing a meal for someone—would you serve it on a dirty plate? Of course not. Just like that, you need to take care of yourself, clean your own plate, and make sure you’re ready before you can truly give to others. Self-care is how you fill yourself up, how you make sure you’re offering your best self. Once you’ve taken care of yourself, the real magic happens when you start giving back. Giving back is like offering someone a fresh, clean plate. You’re giving them the chance to fill it with something new, something nourishing. And in the process, you’re filling yourself up, too. Volunteering during the holidays, or at any time, is one of the most powerful ways to give back. It’s a chance to take your experiences—no matter how hard they’ve been—and turn them into something good. By helping others, you’re also helping yourself. You’re reminding yourself that your story isn’t finished yet. You have the power to change your narrative, to write your own justice, and to make a difference in the world around you. Giving back is healing. It connects you to something larger than yourself, to a community that supports one another. And when you give, you’re not just offering time or resources—you’re offering hope, compassion, and the possibility of change. So this holiday season, think about how you can give back. Whether it’s through volunteering, offering a kind word, or sharing your story, you have something valuable to offer. And in the process, you might just find that you’re healing yourself too .Kathe'rine&nbsp;

The Power of Giving Back: Healing Through Service

Trusting Your Senses: Staying Alert and Safe During the Holidays Have you ever seen a hound dog suddenly freeze, nose to the ground, alert to a scent no one else can smell? Or watched as a pointer dog stands still, focused, ears perked, every muscle on high alert? These animals have a powerful ability to use their senses to stay aware of what’s happening around them. They trust their instincts and know when to act, and as humans, we have our own inner alerts, too. We’re not dogs, but we have something just as powerful within us—a natural ability to sense when something isn’t right. The challenge, though, is that we sometimes ignore these instincts or get too comfortable, especially during times like the holidays, when we’re more relaxed and distracted. But just like animals sharpen their senses for survival, we, too, need to stay aware and trust what our bodies and minds are telling us. The holidays can dull our senses. We can get caught up in the joy, the excitement, and the gatherings, and we may start to let our guard down. But that’s exactly when we need to stay sharp. This doesn’t mean we can’t enjoy the season—it just means we need to stay connected to our senses and trust them when they send us a signal. Sharpening Your Five Senses: 1. Sight: Just like how a dog will look carefully around when they sense something is off, we need to be aware of our surroundings. Take notice of the people around you. Does something feel “off” about someone’s body language or behavior? If so, don’t brush it aside—trust what you see and act on it. 2. Hearing: Sometimes, our ears pick up on things that our eyes miss. Maybe it’s a change in tone, an uncomfortable silence, or a sound that triggers your sense of caution. When you hear something that makes you feel uneasy, pay attention. Your ears are your early warning system. 3. Smell: Like how dogs can detect danger from a scent, our sense of smell can alert us, too. Whether it’s a strange smell that raises concern or something familiar that brings comfort, trust your gut reaction. This sense is more powerful than we realize. 4. Touch: Sometimes, it’s a physical reaction—a chill, goosebumps, or an uneasy feeling in the pit of your stomach—that signals something is wrong. These reactions are your body’s way of communicating with you. Don’t ignore these physical signs—they are your inner compass. 5. Intuition (the 6th sense): Our intuition is like that pointer dog’s instinct. We may not know why we feel a certain way, but our bodies and minds are picking up on things beneath the surface. If something feels off, even if you can’t explain it, trust yourself. Your intuition is often right. Sharpening Your Alertness During the Holidays: Stay present: It’s easy to get swept up in the festivities, but staying present means staying connected to your senses. Check in with yourself regularly. How do you feel? Does anything seem out of place? Take a moment to ground yourself and listen to your body. Create boundaries: Just like animals create boundaries for their safety, set boundaries for yourself. Know when to say no, when to leave a situation, and when to distance yourself from people or places that don’t feel safe. Practice awareness in a friendly way: Think of your senses as your loyal friends, always there to guide you. Trust them like you would trust a close friend who’s looking out for your best interests. Be kind to yourself and remember that staying alert isn’t about being fearful—it’s about being empowered. Sharpen your tools: Just like a tool needs to be sharpened to work well, your senses need to be fine-tuned. Spend time in reflection or mindfulness. Do activities that help you stay in touch with your body and intuition. It could be something as simple as journaling, taking a quiet walk, or doing a grounding exercise to help you stay connected. --- Empowering Conclusion: As the holidays approach, remember that you are your own best guide. Your senses are gifts, designed to protect you and keep you safe. Trust them, rely on them, and know that they will carry you through any situation with strength and clarity. Like a hound dog on alert, you can remain aware, grounded, and safe, no matter where you are. The joy of the season is yours to enjoy, but you also have the power to protect your peace, your safety, and your well-being. You’ve got this—your senses are sharper than you think, and they are always ready to guide you home safely.Kathe'rine&nbsp;

Blogs

Embrace Something New This Christmas Weekend

A Cozy, Carefree Christmas

Introduction: The Gift of Life and Love

Embracing the Simple Joys of Christmas

The Power of Giving Back: Healing Through Service

Trusting Your Senses: Staying Alert and Safe During the H...