Vesta - Goddess of The Hearth

Vesta is the Roman Goddess of the Hearth, Home, and Family. (Her Greek counterpart is Hestia.) A virgin Goddess, she did not marry or have children like most of the Roman Gods and Goddesses, yet she is still seen as a maternal, mothering figure.  This is because the fire of the Hearth which she protects - was recognized to be an essential part of a nurturing and safe home life. Without a fire in the hearth, families would be cold, hungry, and unprotected.
Today, we don't have a "hearth fire" in our homes; that has been replaced by a stove and a microwave. Most of us don't cook our food over an open flame (except for those fun family barbeque nights) and a fireplace is more of a luxury than a necessity for warmth. Although our methods have changed, many Neo-Pagans are still drawn to honoring a Goddess of Hearth and Home.  The Ancient Romans would honor Vesta by throwing some of their food into the hearth fire as an offering . . . giving back to the life- force that had provided for them. In Vesta's temple, a fire was constantly burning. Guarded and tended to by the Vestal Virgins . . . women who had dedicated their lives to honoring and serving Vesta.
Today, many who call themselves "kitchen witches" are drawn to honoring Vesta (or Hestia) as part of their daily spiritual practice. Recognizing that the kitchen with all it's modern gadgets is still a center of the home - a place of creation and nurturing.
My blog title is "Muse of Hestia" because as a mother and housewife I find so much of my spiritual life is tied directly to my home life and family. I work with Vesta/ Hestia quite often: she motivates me, inspires me, and encourages me. I will probably blog about Her more . . . but for now I thought a "basic introduction" would be a good place to start!
This is my kitchen altar with tiny statue of Vesta and candle;

Plus, I couldn't think of anything better to blog about starting with the letter V for this week's Pagan Blog Project!