After writing about materialism earlier this week, I’ve been thinking about money and possessions. I’ve also been considering these things because my husband and I are reworking our budget in preparation for our baby that is due in October. When I consider money and possessions, my thoughts often turn to simplicity. Simple living has … [Read more...] about Defining Simplicity
Archives for 2014
Resisting Materialism
Having a baby is one experience that will open your eyes to how pervasive materialism is in our culture. My husband and I need things for the baby and I need new clothes to accommodate my growing belly. However, as we shop, I sometimes begin confusing my genuine needs with wants. Materialism is a way of thinking that emphasizes material … [Read more...] about Resisting Materialism
Slow Cooker Baked Beans
Now that the weather is finally hinting that summer may indeed come this year, I’ve been craving many foods that I associate with summer: Baked beans, potato salad, watermelon, etc. Of course, there’s no need to wait for our first BBQ or picnic to eat these foods, so I made some slow cooker baked beans to accompany cheeseburgers for … [Read more...] about Slow Cooker Baked Beans
Welcoming New Neighbors
A “For Rent” sign recently went up in the window of a nearby house. This means we’ll likely have new neighbors moving in soon. I’ve noted previously that Americans have experienced a decline in their sense of connectedness with their neighbors. If we are to carry out the Biblical command to love our neighbors (Matthew 22:36-40), then we … [Read more...] about Welcoming New Neighbors
Why Proverbs 31 is Insufficient for Christian Women
I felt some frustration when I first studied the verses in Proverbs 31. Of course, I was a college student at the time. I wasn’t married and the idea of selecting wool and flax (verse 13) or making linen garments (verse 24) seemed completely irrelevant to me. As I’ve studied and matured over the years, I’ve developed a greater … [Read more...] about Why Proverbs 31 is Insufficient for Christian Women
Simplify Shopping List Creation with a Household Supply List
My approach to menu planning has minimized the amount of time it takes me to plan a grocery list. Though this process has been streamlined for some time, there were days when I found myself taking a lot of time to determine which non-food items I needed at the store. I finally sat down and compiled a Household Supply List that catalogs … [Read more...] about Simplify Shopping List Creation with a Household Supply List
Breakfast Quesadillas
As I noted a couple of weeks ago, I’ve been making quesadillas with ingredients that aren’t exactly traditional. Given that quesadillas can be made quickly and easily, why not give them a try for breakfast? Breakfast quesadilla fillings I’ve been filling breakfast quesadillas four different ways: Ham and cheese Peanut butter, honey, … [Read more...] about Breakfast Quesadillas
All About Beans
Because of their propensity for causing gas, beans often get a bad rap. This is unfortunate because beans are an amazing food. An obvious benefit of beans is their cost. A serving of dry beans (1/4 cup) costs about $0.15. Canned beans cost a bit more, but they are still affordable. Despite their affordability, beans are nutrient dense and … [Read more...] about All About Beans
