Author: themorningthing

You are loved by God!

Today on The Morning Thing, we shared some great bible verses to show you that God loves you! The God who created the universe, the most powerful being ever, loves you personally. Try to wrap your mind around that. He loves you — not just people in general, but you as a person.

The Bible is a compilation of the words God gave so that people could know more about Him. These verses from the Bible are reminders of God’s wonderful, extravagant, amazing, unstoppable and unconditional love.

The verses we shared today:

Love is patient and kind. Love is not jealous or boastful or proud or rude. It does not demand its own way. It is not irritable, and it keeps no record of being wronged. It does not rejoice about injustice but rejoices whenever the truth wins out. Love never gives up, never loses faith, is always hopeful, and endures through every circumstance. (1 Corinthians 13:4-7)

  • Can you imagine being loved like this? It would change your life. The truth is this is an accurate description of God’s love for you.
  • Though this passage is often read at weddings, humans cannot love perfectly as God does. But it makes sense that people strive to have their love for one another reflect these qualities.
  • Everyone needs that type of love, but if you expect it from another person, you will be let down. God is the only one who can love you perfectly. And when you have a relationship with God and experience His love, it empowers you to love others the way God loves you.

Such love has no fear, because perfect love expels all fear. If we are afraid, it is for fear of punishment, and this shows that we have not fully experienced His perfect love. (1 John 4:18)

  • When you understand that God loves you no matter what, you no longer need to be afraid of your failings causing Him to love you less. If you could only truly know the depth of God’s love, you would have nothing to fear.
  • God already knows about the wrong things you’ve done as well as any you will do. He still chose to love you.

And may you have the power to understand, as all God’s people should, how wide, how long, how high, and how deep His love is. May you experience the love of Christ, though it is too great to understand fully. Then you will be made complete with all the fullness of life and power that comes from God. (Ephesians 3:18-19)

  • God’s love is so great that we, as mere humans, cannot fully understand it. Humans’ love for one another often depends at least partly on the behavior of the person being loved. God’s love for us does not.
  • Do you long to be known and loved for who you are? God is the only one who can truly do that.

But let all who take refuge in You rejoice; let them sing joyful praises forever. Spread Your protection over them, that all who love Your name may be filled with joy. For You bless the godly, O LORD; You surround them with Your shield of love. (Psalm 5:11-12)

  • God’s love is so much more than the warm fuzzy feeling often associated with the word love. His love is a powerful force, protecting and comforting us. Being in God’s love is a position of not just joy but also safety.
  • When you run to God for protection, He surrounds you with His shield of love. Think about that image for a while. Experience the security you have because God’s love surrounds you. Let His love flood your mind with a sense of peace and comfort.

We will be sharing more of these over the next couple weeks.

To see more verses about God’s love, click HERE!

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Centerburg Heart of Ohio USA Days Festival – Candy McCracken Interview!

We got the chance to talk with Candy McCracken, a Board Member and President for the Centerburg Heart of Ohio USA Days Festival! She shares with us all the information regarding this years 20th anniversary event! Including the rundown of the event schedule, how they have been fundraising, and then what she is excited for!

To learn more about the event, click HERE!

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National Day of Joy!

We celebrated National Day of Joy today on The Morning Thing! Not only did we share about what it is and the history of it, but we also dove into scripture and explored what the bible say about joy. Use this to be joyful today and everyday!

This day has a fun story behind it! To learn more about what it is, click HERE!

To see what the Bible says about joy, click HERE!

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Centerburg Heart of Ohio USA Days Festival – Patrick Loudermilk Interview!

We got the chance to talk with Patrick Loudermilk, a Board Member and Vice President for the Centerburg Heart of Ohio USA Days Festival! He shares with us all the information regarding this years 20th anniversary event! Including the schedule, where the event is, how parking will work, and so much more!

To learn more about the festival, click HERE!

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Are you taking care of yourself?

On The Morning Thing today, we highlighted self-care! We shared some great insights from Focus On The Family about what self care actually is. Then we jumped into some tips on how to uphold your self-care from the Positivity Blog! They are both great reads that are sure to help you wind down this summer!

To learn more about self care, click HERE!

If you want to see the tips, click HERE!

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062025 – Faith Filled Funniness Friday!

We celebrated a Faith Filled Funniness Friday on The Morning Thing! We shared some hilarious segments with our favorite comedians, then for our Friday Favorites, the entire Big Blue Crew shared their favorite kids jokes with Marcy!

If you’re looking for a laugh today then you’ve found it!

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National Real Food Day!

Today on The Morning Thing, we celebrated National Real Food Day by sharing many food related topics! Including what National Real Food Day is, Real Food vs Fake Food, and some foods you’ve probably been storing wrong in your house.

What is it?

We talked a little bit about what it is, the history behind it, as well as how to celebrate it!

For more on that, click HERE!

Real Food vs Fake Food

Real Foods (Whole, Natural, Minimally Processed)

· Fresh fruits (apples, bananas, berries, oranges)

· Fresh vegetables (spinach, carrots, broccoli, tomatoes)

· Whole grains (brown rice, quinoa, oats)

· Nuts and seeds (almonds, walnuts, chia seeds, flaxseeds)

· Legumes (beans, lentils, chickpeas)

· Fresh meat, poultry, fish (unprocessed cuts)

· Eggs (preferably free-range or organic)

· Dairy (plain milk, plain yogurt, cheese with minimal ingredients)

· Natural oils (olive oil, coconut oil, avocado oil)

· Fresh herbs and spices

· Water

—

Fake Foods (Highly Processed, Artificial, or Industrial)

· Soda and sugary soft drinks

· Packaged snacks (chips, cheese puffs, snack cakes)

· Instant noodles or ramen with seasoning packets

· Processed meats (hot dogs, some deli meats, chicken nuggets)

· Artificial sweeteners and sugar substitutes

· Candy bars and chocolate with added chemicals and fillers

· Fast food burgers and fries

· Frozen meals with preservatives and additives

· Highly refined baked goods (white bread with preservatives, packaged cakes)

· Margarine and hydrogenated oils (trans fats)

· Artificial flavorings, colorings, and preservatives

· Energy drinks and powdered drink mixes

Foods you’ve been storing wrong!

Finally we talked about some of the foods we all have and how you may be storing them all wrong! This will help you make your food last longer.

To view that list, click HERE!

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Easy vegetable recipes to eat healthier!

Today on The Morning Thing, we honored National Eat Your Vegetables Day! We shared shared a lot of information on the day and how to celebrate it. As well as many fantastic vegetable centric recipes for you to use! These recipes are easy, quick, tasty, and you can customize them any way you like.

Here are our recipes:

Rainbow Veggie Wraps 

  • Ingredients: 
  • Whole wheat tortillas 
  • Hummus or cream cheese 
  • Shredded carrots 
  • Sliced cucumbers 
  • Baby spinach 
  • Red bell pepper strips 
  • Purple cabbage, shredded 
  • Directions: 

Spread hummus or cream cheese on a tortilla. Layer the veggies in rainbow order. Roll tightly and slice into pinwheels if desired. 

Cheesy Broccoli Bites 

  • Ingredients: 
  • 2 cups steamed, chopped broccoli 
  • 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese 
  • ½ cup breadcrumbs 
  • 1 egg 
  • Salt and pepper to taste 
  • Directions: 

Mix all ingredients and form into small balls or patties. Bake at 375°F for 20 minutes or until golden brown. 

Stuffed Bell Peppers 

  • Ingredients: 
  • 4 bell peppers, tops cut off and seeds removed 
  • 1 cup cooked quinoa or rice 
  • 1 can black beans, rinsed 
  • 1 cup corn 
  • 1 cup diced tomatoes 
  • 1 tsp cumin 
  • Shredded cheese (optional) 
  • Directions: 

Mix filling ingredients, stuff peppers, and bake at 375°F for 30–35 minutes. Top with cheese for the last 5 minutes if desired. 

Crispy Zucchini Fries 

  • Ingredients: 
  • 2 zucchinis, cut into fries 
  • 1 egg, beaten 
  • 1 cup breadcrumbs (panko preferred) 
  • ½ cup grated Parmesan cheese 
  • Italian seasoning 
  • Directions: 

Dip zucchini in egg, then breadcrumb mixture. Bake at 400°F for 20–25 minutes until crispy. 

Summer Corn & Tomato Salad 

  • Ingredients: 
  • 2 cups fresh corn (cut from cob or thawed frozen) 
  • 1 cup cherry tomatoes, halved 
  • ¼ cup chopped red onion 
  • Fresh basil, chopped 
  • Olive oil, balsamic vinegar, salt & pepper 
  • Directions: 

Toss everything together and chill before serving. 

Ratatouille Skillet 

  • Ingredients: 
  • 1 eggplant, diced 
  • 1 zucchini, sliced 
  • 1 red bell pepper, chopped 
  • 1 yellow squash, sliced 
  • 1 can crushed tomatoes 
  • Garlic and Italian herbs 
  • Directions: 

Sauté all veggies until soft, then stir in tomatoes and seasonings. Simmer for 10–15 minutes. Serve with crusty bread. 

Garden Veggie Pasta Salad 

  • Ingredients: 
  • 2 cups cooked pasta 
  • 1 cup cherry tomatoes 
  • ½ cup cucumbers 
  • ½ cup red onion 
  • ½ cup broccoli florets 
  • Italian dressing 
  • Directions: 

Toss cooked pasta with chopped veggies and dressing. Chill and serve. 

Veggie Tacos 

  • Ingredients: 
  • Corn or flour tortillas 
  • Sautéed bell peppers, onions, zucchini, and mushrooms 
  • Avocado slices 
  • Salsa or hot sauce 
  • Directions: 

Warm tortillas, fill with sautéed veggies and toppings. Add lime juice or cheese if desired. 

Some fun ways to Celebrate!

🥦 National Eat Your Vegetables Day – 20 Fun Ways to Celebrate!

Celebrate June 17th with healthy, tasty fun!

🥕 Fun & Tasty Celebrations

· • Veggie Taste Test Challenge – Try a new vegetable or compare raw vs. cooked.

· • Build-Your-Own Salad Bar – Offer a variety of greens, toppings, and dressings.

· • Make Veggie-Based Snacks – Try carrot fries, cucumber boats, or zucchini chips.

· • Go Meatless for a Meal – Choose one meal to go fully plant-based.

· • Juice or Smoothie Station – Blend up colorful veggie smoothies.

· • Cook a Rainbow – Make a dish using veggies of every color.

· • Veggie Potluck – Invite friends or coworkers to share veggie dishes.

🎨 Creative & Educational Activities

· • Veggie Art or Carving – Make funny faces or sculptures using vegetables.

· • “Name That Veggie” Game – Blindfold taste tests or silhouette guessing.

· • Visit or Plant a Garden – Explore where veggies come from or plant seeds together.

· • Veggie Storytime – Read books like ‘Eating the Alphabet’ or ‘Rah, Rah, Radishes!’

· • Veggie Bingo – Create a card with different veggies to encourage variety.

📱 Social & Community Engagement

· • Share a Veggie Recipe Online – Post your favorite veggie dish on social media.

· • Host a Cooking Demo – Teach others how to cook a veggie meal (live or virtual).

· • Visit a Farmer’s Market – Buy and try local, seasonal vegetables.

· • Volunteer – Help at a food pantry or community garden.

🏆 Healthy Competitions & Challenges

· • “Most Veggies in a Day” Contest – Track how many servings you eat.

· • Veggie Selfie Challenge – Snap a pic with your veggie plate and tag friends.

· • Veggie Tracker – Compete to try the most different veggies during the week.

· • Prizes & Stickers – Reward yourself or kids with veggie-themed goodies.

Eat smart. Have fun. Share the love of veggies!

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Wild Adventures Await: Celebrate National Zoo and Aquarium Month with Family Fun in Ohio

Are you ready to have fun and make memories with your family and friends? Today, The Morning Thing celebrated National Zoo and Aquarium Month by sharing a list of destinations throughout Ohio.
Check out this list! Follow the links and you can start planning your trip. We would love to have you send us a picture – wnzr@mvnu.edu

🦁 Columbus Zoo & Aquarium (Powell, near Columbus)

🦓 Cincinnati Zoo & Botanical Garden

🌍 Cleveland Metroparks Zoo

  • Immersive exhibits, including a two-level RainForest and African Savanna with giraffes, rhinos, cheetahs ohiorc.org+1en.wikipedia.org+1
  • Interactive, family‑driven activities scattered throughout—great for kids to learn and explore hands-on ohiorc.org+1ohiorc.org+1

🐠 Greater Cleveland Aquarium

🐬 Toledo Zoo & Aquarium

🐧 Akron Zoo (Akron)

🐆 The Wilds (Cumberland, OH)

  • Ohio’s massive safari park on 9,154 acres of reclaimed coal mine land en.wikipedia.org
  • Open-range enclosures for rare & endangered species—plus zip-lining, horseback riding, fishing & biking en.wikipedia.org
  • Requires advanced reservations; less conventional but unforgettable wildlife immersion

🗺️ Bonus Spot: African Safari Wildlife Park (Port Clinton)

  • Drive-through safari with exotic animals; also walk-around petting zoo and train rides
  • More interactive with a “Wild Herd” experience—brings people close to giraffes, camels, bison, etc.

📌 Quick Comparison Table

LocationHighlights for Families
Columbus Zoo & AquariumCoasters, rides, behind-the-scenes, conservation programs
Cincinnati Zoo & Botanical GardenHistoric grounds, endangered species, hands‑on demos
Cleveland Metroparks ZooRainforest, African Savanna, immersive exhibits
Greater Cleveland AquariumTouch-pools, shark tube, diver shows
Toledo Zoo & AquariumMassive reef tanks, dive shows, evening events
Akron ZooCompact, educational programs, junior keeper
The WildsSafari adventure + outdoor activities
African Safari ParkDrive-through safari, petting train, exotic animals

✅ Family Day Tips

  • Each site offers conservation & educational programming—ask about keeper talks or tours.
  • Check schedules for interactive experiences (feeding times, dive shows, rides).
  • Combine a Zoo + Aquarium visit (e.g., Cleveland Zoo + Greater Cleveland Aquarium).
  • For outdoor adventure, head to The Wilds or African Safari Park.
  • Bring snacks or picnic, water, sunscreen—plus a stroller for little ones.

Special Events on the Summer 2025 Calendar:
🦁 Columbus Zoo & Aquarium (Powell)

🕒 Hours & Tickets

🎟️ Online Perks & Passes

🎉 June Events

🦓 Cincinnati Zoo & Botanical Garden

🎫 Tickets

🗓️ June Events

🐠 Greater Cleveland Aquarium

🎫 Tickets

🗓️ June Events

🐬 Toledo Zoo & Aquarium

🎫 Tickets

  • Non‑Lucas County: Adult $32, Child $29, Senior $29. Lucas County: Adult $30, Child $27, Senior $27 toledozoo.org
  • Parking included? Details online

🗓️ June Events

Rick Springfield Concert: June 29 – ticket via Live Nation, sold separately toledozoo.org+1toledozoo.org+1

Twilight Evenings: Wed & Thu, May 28–Aug 28; half‑price admission 4–8 PM, closes 9 PM toledozoo.org+1toledozoo.org+1

Weekly Evening Events: Garden tours, trivia, member mornings, family safaris, etc. See calendar details toledozoo.org

Zen at the Zoo (Yoga + Keeper Talk): June 21 toledozoo.org+2toledozoo.org+2toledozoo.org+2

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