I’ve said many times that if a recipe doesn’t state that it is “easy” or “simple,” then I’m probably not going to prepare it. This hasn’t always been the case, but during this busy season, I don’t have time for meals that take a lot of time and energy to prepare. I greatly prefer homemade foods, but my need for convenience has led me to … [Read more...] about Convenient Shortcuts to Prepare Mostly Homemade Meals
January 2026 Dinner Menu
December was wonderful for us, but it was very busy. My girls had a craft fair with their homeschool group early in the month. As Christmas approached, their Granny (my wonderful mother-in law) arrived and we did all our usual shopping, wrapping, baking, etc. We shared lots of laughter and fun. It is always bittersweet when we get into January … [Read more...] about January 2026 Dinner Menu
8 Unique Takes on New Year’s Resolutions
With next year quickly approaching, ‘tis the season for resolutions and goal setting. Though the concept of making changes in the New Year is an idea that’s been around for ages, there have likely never been so many novel ways of going about doing so. Early in our marriage, my husband and I would set aside time to goal plan each winter. … [Read more...] about 8 Unique Takes on New Year’s Resolutions
Sweet Potato Pie Mini Cupcakes with Marshmallow Buttercream Frosting
My eldest daughter loves sweet potato pie. When we signed up to take cupcakes to Friendsgiving at my kids’ homeschool group, we debated which flavor to take. It’s no surprise that my eldest wanted to integrate the flavor of her favorite Thanksgiving dessert into the cupcakes. I’m so glad we did because these cupcakes were … [Read more...] about Sweet Potato Pie Mini Cupcakes with Marshmallow Buttercream Frosting
December 2025 Dinner Menu
I can’t believe we are at the beginning of December! This past month was busy and absolutely flew by. Thankfully, the government shutdown ended, so my husband (who is a federal employee) is once again getting paid. We’re so grateful for this! My kids enjoyed their Friendsgiving celebration at homeschool group and we are delighted to have cold … [Read more...] about December 2025 Dinner Menu
Chicken Enchilada Soup
Soups are one of my favorite things to eat during the fall and winter. My husband is okay with soups, but he’s not an avid fan like I am. Thankfully, there are a few soups that are big hits with both of us! This Chicken Enchilada Soup is one of the hits. I made it for the first time last winter and have made it a few times since then. … [Read more...] about Chicken Enchilada Soup
November 2025 Dinner Menu
Last month ended up being a bit of a mixed bag for us. Our weather has finally cooled a bit. We love it! I’m able to open the windows to enjoy the crisp air in the morning and my kids have been playing in the backyard during the afternoons. My kids also had a great time at a Halloween event put on by their homeschool group. Unfortunately, our … [Read more...] about November 2025 Dinner Menu
5 Strategies for Helping Kids Handle Losing
Losing is part of life. It happens when playing games, of course, but it also happens when someone else gets the promotion at work, when we don’t achieve our goals, and when changes in physical health prevent us from doing what we once could. Despite it being a ubiquitous experience, it is often difficult for children to respond courteously … [Read more...] about 5 Strategies for Helping Kids Handle Losing
