I can tolerate spiders outdoors because I know they are part of a balanced ecosystem, but it’s another story when they come indoors. We’ve been seeing quite a few—many of which are large—in our home this spring. Commercially available pesticides are a quick and effective way to kill spiders, but they’re not exactly a safe and healthy … [Read more...] about Safe and Effective Spider Control
Book Review: Freedom of Simplicity
In Freedom of Simplicity, Richard J. Foster explores the surprisingly complex topic of simplicity. I’m excited to share about this book because it has had a significant impact on my life. I read it for the first time when I was in college and I’ve read through it at least a couple of times since then. Though many books have helped shape my … [Read more...] about Book Review: Freedom of Simplicity
Affording Maternity Clothes
My frugal sensibilities find it difficult to spend a lot of money on clothes. It comes as no surprise that it’s especially difficult to purchase clothing items that are designed to be worn for the relatively short period of time that comprises pregnancy! Fortunately, I’m visiting a couple of retailers and using a few tricks to try to … [Read more...] about Affording Maternity Clothes
Summer 2014 Menu
Though it has been only two months since I posted my spring menu, we’re already moving on to our summer one. There were lots of tasty dishes on the spring menu, but morning sickness left me unable to consume many of them. Subsequently, I planned our summer menu and we’re enjoying it more successfully. As I’ve shared previously, I … [Read more...] about Summer 2014 Menu
Defining Simplicity
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
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
