I get all riled up about claims that raising children costs millions. Could you spend a million dollars on a child? Sure. You can also spend over $100,000 on a Versailles-inspired Neiman Marcus chicken coop. But that would be unreasonable. Yes, kids aren’t cheap, but having a large family doesn’t have to be a financial impossibility. Granted, each family's situation is different and living off … [Read more...]
Seasonal Eating Thoughts
Find me over at Mama and Baby Love today talking about our journey toward seasonal eating... Ever wonder how to take your enjoyment of food to a new level? The answer might be a major shift in your food lifestyle to embrace seasonal eating. Until college, a tomato was a tomato to me. It certainly wasn’t a food I would ever want to bite into all by itself. You pick them up any ol’ time of … [Read more...]
Introducing the Hens!
And now, the post you've been waiting for! A chicken virtual meet and greet! You have been waiting for that, right? Ahem. Apparently there's a nesting instinct that takes over pregnant women as they approach their due date. Instead of starting a painting project, organizing, or attacking the dire laundry situation, this phenomenon prompted me to do super unnecessary things like convince my … [Read more...]
6 Must-Have Books and Cookbooks for Seasonal Eating Inspiration
Since our conversion, I've gained more appreciation for the rhythms of the Christian Year and that by observing those seasons, the story of the Gospel unfolds. One way to participate in the Christian Year is to feast and fast according to the traditions of the Church which, obviously, involves food! Sharing food with family and friends should ideally be a daily reminder of sacred things: The Last … [Read more...]
Women Speak on NFP: Fertility Charting with an App!
This is a guest post by Mary of Better Than Eden in the Women Speak on NFP series. In this series you will hear from women using various methods of NFP, some to avoid pregnancy, some trying to conceive, and their experiences. Disclaimer: This series is not meant to be a substitute for any method of training in NFP! If you are interested in one of the methods introduced in this series, please … [Read more...]
Women Speak on NFP: Why My Husband and I Don’t Use Contraception
This is a guest post by Stephanie of Captive the Heart in the Women Speak on NFP series. In this series you will hear from women using various methods of NFP, some to avoid pregnancy, some trying to conceive, and their experiences. Disclaimer: This series is not meant to be a substitute for any method of training in NFP! If you are interested in one of the methods introduced in this series, … [Read more...]
Herb Gardening Tips for Beginners
Happy Monday! Today you can find me over at Mama And Baby Love chatting about herb gardening :) It’s still wintry and chilly outside, but it’s time to start planning for your Spring garden. And for those of us in the deep south, spring gardening is already in full swing now that we’re had our last frost (fingers crossed!). If you’ve never tried out your green thumb before (and even if you have) … [Read more...]
10 Ways to Avoid the Flu (And Recipe: Immune-Boosting Lemonade Jello)
I have a treat for you today, a guest post from Chef Karen, Catholic mama to an adorable 8-month-old baby girl, good friend, and certified natural chef. We were childhood friends and got reconnected when we both moved back to our hometown. Enjoy her awesome wisdom about avoiding the flu by strengthening your immune system! - Haley Hello, Carrots-For-Michaelmas-ites! I am so excited to be … [Read more...]
Backyard Chicken Tips
Find me today over at Mama and Baby Love giving you the scoop on getting started with backyard chickens. Free, delicious, healthy organic eggs whenever you need them? A pet that can help teach your kids about nature, reproduction, and responsibility? There are so many benefits to having backyard chickens, but getting started can be a little intimidating. Here are some guidelines to get you … [Read more...]
Orange Pomanders: A Festive Kid-Friendly DIY
One of my favorite festive scents is the combination of orange and cloves. I made orange pomanders once or twice as a little girl and decided to share the experience with my 3-year-old this year since it's such a fun and kid-friendly activity. And because I have no crafting skill and they're so easy to make. Basically, an orange pomander is an orange decorated with whole cloves. They've been … [Read more...]