-
Building an outdoor kitchen for under $500
I have always been a person who enjoys working with my hands, and becoming a mom certainly didn’t change that. However, being a stay-at-home mom has limited the amount of money I can spend on things, so I have mastered the art of getting what I want at a fraction of the price. I also did all this work while my baby was sleeping or playing in a pen outside. I gave her some tools to keep her occupied, haha. We ended up moving to a house on one acre that needed a lot of work. Along with the work came some random used materials around the property. My husband…
You May Also Like
21 Brilliant Organizing Hacks for a Small House
-
What you REALLY need for a baby
When I was pregnant, I accumulated a lot of items to prepare for our baby girl. I had enough clothes to last a child, whether a boy or a girl, until they turned 5! Living in a small house (728 sq ft), we struggled to find space for all the things I was acquiring. Thankfully, we had a garage to store everything! It seems like the internet and businesses try to convince you that you need a lot of stuff for your little one. In hindsight, I would have approached it differently. The reality is, you don’t actually need much. However, there are items that can greatly simplify your life.…
-
World Famous Buttermilk Pancakes/ Waffles
A Legacy of Culinary Obsession Ah, the joys of growing up with a dad who had culinary zeal! One moment he was a master breadsmith, and the next, a king of eggs. But there was one recipe that truly topped them all: his legendary pancake (or waffle) batter that he snagged from a friend who apparently dominated local contests with it. Talk about kitchen royalty! Simple Ingredients, Outrageous Flavor Now, you might be thinking, “It’s just pancakes!” But let me tell you, this recipe is so simple that even your toaster might get jealous. What you need are: Put ingredients in a mixing bowl, dry first. Mix well. Let batter…
-
Navigating Postpartum Anxiety
Understanding Postpartum Anxiety Postpartum anxiety is a type of anxiety disorder that can develop after childbirth, affecting numerous new mothers. While the transition into motherhood can be a time of joy and excitement, it can also be accompanied by a range of emotional and psychological challenges. Symptoms of postpartum anxiety may include persistent worry, restlessness, irritability, and difficulty concentrating. Many women experience intrusive thoughts about their baby’s safety or their ability to care for their child, which can exacerbate feelings of fear and inadequacy. This condition might manifest differently among individuals, and its severity can vary greatly. Some mothers may find themselves obsessively checking on their baby, while others might…
-
10 easy Toddler meals when you can’t think straight:
When Meal Planning Turns into a Game of Guess Who? We’ve all been there—staring blankly at the fridge, wondering what to whip up for our little tornado of energy. Fear not! Here are 10 easy toddler meals that are quick enough to whip up even when your brain is functioning at, let’s say, a toddler’s level. 1. The Classic Peanut Butter & Jelly Sandwich The timeless classic: spread peanut butter and jelly between two slices of bread. It’s virtually foolproof, and let’s be honest—adults love it too! Just watch out for allergy concerns! 2. Pasta with Butter and Parmesan If you’ve got pasta lying around (and really, who doesn’t?), toss…
-
3 Tips for perfect cookies
Chill Your Dough for Best Results One of the most important tips to perfect your cookies is to chill the dough for at least one hour before baking. This simple step helps solidify the fat in the dough, ensuring your cookies hold their shape and have a chewy texture. It also enhances the flavors, giving the ingredients time to meld beautifully. Preheat Your Oven Like a Pro Another key technique is to always ensure that your oven is properly preheated. A hot oven is crucial for the perfect cookie. If you place your dough in an unheated oven, you risk ending up with flat or unevenly baked cookies. Preheat your…
-
Enjoying the new born phase
Embracing the Joyful Chaos The early days of welcoming a newborn are characterized by a unique blend of magical moments and chaotic experiences. It is a time when life seems to revolve entirely around the new addition, and every coo and gurgle can feel like a profound connection. New parents often find themselves enveloped in a whirlwind of emotions, ranging from overwhelming joy to profound exhaustion. This beautiful chaos, however, deserves to be cherished, as it represents a fleeting phase of life that will pass all too quickly. During these initial weeks, it is crucial for parents to savor every moment, fully engaging in the experience of bonding with their…
-
50 Dinner ideas for an overwhelmed parent
Embrace the Dinner Dilemma Let’s face it, navigating dinner prep when you have a toddler practicing their parkour skills on your couch can feel like a scene from an action movie. Your time is limited, and your patience is thin. Fear not! Here are 50 different dinner ideas to save the day and keep your sanity intact. Quick and Easy Dinner Hacks If you’re racing against the clock, the last thing you want to do is face a battle in the kitchen. Here are a few ideas that are as easy as pie (not the baking kind, we’re in survival mode here!): Meals to Impress (or Just Get By) Sometimes,…
-
Life Lessons from a Mom: Tips and Tricks for Navigating Parenthood
Hey there, fellow parents! 🌟 As a mom still figuring life out, I’ve stumbled upon a few tips and tricks that have made my journey a little smoother. I know we all have our unique paths, but I hope these insights can help you, too! 1. Embrace the Chaos Parenthood is messy—literally and figuratively! Instead of striving for perfection, embrace the chaos. Some days will be filled with laughter, while others might involve a meltdown (from you or the kids!). Remember, it’s all part of the adventure. 2. Prioritize Self-Care It’s easy to put yourself last when you’re busy caring for little ones. However, taking time for yourself is crucial. Whether it’s…
