Last week I got a new clothing item for my daughter. This was a unique item (ScratchSleeves), so I wanted to be sure I didn’t damage it when I washed it. Unfortunately, I was very confused by the laundering instructions provided with the item: I had to search a bit, but I figured out what all these symbols mean. There are actually a … [Read more...] about Interpreting Laundry Care Symbols
Keeping the Home
Easy Beefy Noodles
I love having a few one-pot and one-skillet recipes available for those days when I just don’t have a lot of time to spend on dinner. Easy Beefy Noodles is one of these. As a bonus, it has a great flavor and is very affordable to make! Ingredients 1 lb. ground beef 1 medium onion, chopped 2 cloves minced garlic 2/3 cup chopped … [Read more...] about Easy Beefy Noodles
Chicken Lettuce Wraps
I’ve always enjoyed eating chicken lettuce wraps at Asian food restaurants, but until recently I’d not made them at home. Most chicken lettuce wraps contain a sauce made with soy, so who knew I’d finally make them at home when I had to plan a dairy and soy free menu? Thanks to coconut aminos, a soy-free seasoning alternative to soy … [Read more...] about Chicken Lettuce Wraps
Affording Stay-At-Home Motherhood
I love telling stories about when my husband and I first met. One of the best stories is how he, during our very first interaction, asked me how many children I wanted. His question didn’t bother me and it set the tone for open, honest communication in our relationship. Given this initial discussion, it likely won’t surprise you that we … [Read more...] about Affording Stay-At-Home Motherhood
Spring 2015 Menu
Spring? Though the cold and snow we have around here belie the fact that spring is near, it truly is. I’m excited for it and for our new menu. As I’ve described previously, I periodically develop monthly menus. We use each for 3 consecutive months before beginning a new one (read about why and how I plan monthly menus here). I only plan … [Read more...] about Spring 2015 Menu
Oat Outburst! (Oat Information and Recipe Roundup)
Given that oats are nutritious, affordable, and versatile, it’s no wonder that a warm, hearty bowl of oatmeal can help me have a great start to the day. Unfortunately, at first glance, oats can seem kind of boring. They’re not, though! There are so many delicious was to prepare them. Need some ideas? See below for dozens of … [Read more...] about Oat Outburst! (Oat Information and Recipe Roundup)
Keeping It Real While Practicing Hospitality
When I have guests over, I typically try to make things nice. I do my best to get the house in tip-top shape, I cook my best meals, I use formal serving dishes, and I smile and act cheerfully (even if I’m having a rough day). I’m beginning to realize that this nice façade may not be beneficial when practicing hospitality. Instead, my … [Read more...] about Keeping It Real While Practicing Hospitality
Homemade Breakfast Sausage
My husband is dissatisfied with the breakfast sausage available where we shop for groceries. We’ve tried every brand they sell, but he’s always been disappointed. While he was searching for breakfast ideas a couple of weeks ago, he came across a recipe that he asked me to try. I was more than happy to do so and I’m so glad I did! The … [Read more...] about Homemade Breakfast Sausage