Homemaking Cottage Online Newsletter Archive: recipes, articles, crafts

Setting Up Your Home to Slow Down Your Life

2010-10-18T01:56:00.000-04:00

September is a beautiful month. The weather starts to cool off and it is the perfect time to enjoy the start of fall before the cold weather sets in.

I naturally tend to start focusing on the indoors during the course of this month. Schedules, education, and books become a part of life again for many homemakers who are managing a family. We’re focusing on these areas too this month, including the importance of getting your own education and not necessarily through a formal school. Reading and other ways of gaining knowledge is education and you can learn everything from homemaking to history to improve your life.

Some vegetables in season this month are: eggplant, broccoli, beets, Brussels sprouts, cabbage, carrots, cauliflower, celeriac, celery, chicory, French beans, Jerusalem artichoke, snow peas, leeks, and mushrooms. It’s a perfect time to break out the crock-pot for slow cooking during your busy days and also a great time to enjoy soups and stews.

Take some time to enjoy our articles with ideas to create a home environment that is pleasing for you and your family. The Deluxe Edition was created to bring you ideas tailored to your needs with articles that are exclusive to the Homemaking-Cottage.

Setting Up Your Home to Slow Down Your Life
By Shiloah Baker

Life in the fast lane can sometimes be exhilarating, but many times it is overwhelming and leaves you feeling exhausted, unfulfilled, and unhappy. Many people do not realize how rich and full life is when you slow down and get rid of all the unnecessary.

If you want to start living your life at a slower pace, the place to begin is at home. Order and decorate your home in such a way that is creates an environment of peace, quiet, and stillness.

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A Homemaker’s Joy: Collecting Dishes

“Collecting is my joy; it gives me great satisfaction.”-Ursula Andress

There is something exciting and thrilling in treasure hunting, especially when you can get these treasures at a bargain.

As homemakers, what is something we use every day? Dishes. I am of a creative nature and I get tired of seeing the same dishes every day. I like a little variety. The budget doesn’t allow for purchasing several new sets of dishes to serve ten, but it does allow for me to find new-to-me dish sets used at a thrift store.

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One Day He’ll Be Perfect- until Then...
By Shiloah Baker

Fairy tales can be very misleading for poor unsuspecting young girls. We grow up hoping and waiting for that promised knight in shining armor to sweep us off of our feet, marry us and we’ll live happily ever after.

The trouble begins after the honeymoon wears off and we realize that our husband is not always that knight in shining armor, sometimes he behaves more like an ogre.

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Solitude equals Clarity
By Shiloah Baker

Perhaps it’s because I’m an escapist by nature or perhaps it is because there is so much going on around me, but I think the most clearly when surround myself with solitude. One of my favorite places to go in the house is in my room. It is quiet. It is mine...

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Family Gardening = Time Well Spent
By Jamie Turner

Just a hundred years ago it was unheard of not to have a kitchen garden. Sixty years ago families rallied behind the “victory garden” movement. Families of today are again starting to realize how valuable a garden can be for the budget and for connecting several generations of a family together.

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How to Share Your Blog with the World
By Jamie Turner

The information super highway has become a big universe made up of millions of blogs and websites. Each day hundreds of new sites are started on the internet. Your blog is just one twinkling star and can easily be overlooked or never noticed at all. To avoid this fate you must tell the world about your blog and connect with others.

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More articles are added each week so don’t forget to join our ezines for updates and keep checking the blog! Thank you for visiting us at the Homemaking-Cottage.com.

Coming Home: Homemaking Cottage Deluxe

2010-10-18T01:54:00.000-04:00

"A nation is what its homes are. With these it rises and falls, and it can rise no higher than the level of its home life." -Stephen S. Wise

In the world today there is much need of hope, joy, love and warmth. The best place to find this is in the home and within the family. Sadly society’s view of home life has changed over the years and we see much destruction of family life before our eyes. We are aware of this sad pandemic increasing daily in our world and the Homemaking Cottage’s mission is to inspire and uplift women in creating a warm, loving home- a safe haven from the world.

Summer is nearing its end as it heats up the earth in the month of August. It is this time of year that I naturally start gearing up for the fall. Autumn is a season of schooling and preparation for the long winter ahead. Homemakers tend to clean their homes in anticipation for the change of weather and knowing they will spend more time indoors.

As children head back to school most families find it is necessary to adjust or create new schedules for their now more busy lives. August is a good month to prepare and plan ahead for these changes and avoid the panic and stress that last minute planning can cause.

This month we’re still focusing on many outdoor homemaking responsibilities and fun in this warm weather, but we’re also bringing our focus on the inside of the home too. See some articles on homeschooling this month as well as many others. If you wish to see what’s new and are not a subscriber---yet---see the updates on the blog.

You may have noticed some changes on the Homemaking Cottage lately. At the end of July we added The Homemaking Cottage now has Facebook LIKE on the articles as well as article ratings! All of our URLS have changed "within" the site to more readable URLS----just FYI .

Now we’re on to the important things like learning, homemaking, families and more. Many blessings to you, my fellow homemaker.

The Imperfect Home is Perfect
By Shiloah Baker

House hunting for fun or seriously looking to buy can be quite an experience. Whenever I go into a model home that is decorated beautifully and is seemingly perfect I have two feelings. The first is a feeling of inspiration. I take mental notes on what I like and how I can recreate it from how the furniture is arranged to how the home is decorated. But at the same time I’m feeling inspired I’m also feeling a little disheartened. A homemaker who has young children at home or even a budget that won’t allow purchases of grand and expensive furniture can feel that her home will never measure up to such high standards. But, the question is really, is a home supposed to?

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The House is Organized, but How Do I Keep it This Way?

Getting the home organized is never easy, but sometimes keeping it organized can be almost as challenging. However, with some work and cooperation from the rest of the family, it will be easier. It takes time to get used to new habits, but with reminders (not nagging), everyone will be in the swing of things soon.

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Putting Up The Harvest
By Jamie Turner

A few generations ago homemakers everywhere saved money by putting up the harvest. It was a skill that had been passed down from generation to generation. Up until a few years ago it seemed like a dyeing art but then the economy took a turn for the worst. Once again this homemaking skill has become popular.

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Healthy Snacks for After School Treats
By Jamie Turner

“I’m hungry! I’m hungry! What’s for snack?”

Moms around the world know the drill as they often hear these words as kids get home from school. Kids need a healthy snack to keep their engines running for homework, scouts and practices. Adults and kids alike tend to grab for a quick pick me up around 3pm when our blood sugars start to drop.

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Back to School Sanity Saver
By Donna Bush

When our son started kindergarten, I realized I’d need my husband to stay home with our toddler daughter so I could go back to school shopping. He was working nights, so this wasn’t a big deal. But our daughter felt a little left out, so we decided that while I took our son to the mall, Dad and daughter could have a special day together. This year my son is entering sixth grade and although schedules have changed—my husband now works regular business hours—we have always planned a special two day event.

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Delightful Day Trip: Jet Skiing
By Raejean Roberts

Living in Arizona, there’s not a lake on every corner with that whole desert thing we have going on. There is a nice lake about an hour away that we’ve gone to for the last couple of years with my parents and their Jet Ski. If I could spend a day doing anything I wanted, going to the lake wouldn’t be on the top of my list. I’m not a big water girl and get a little anxious on the back of the Jet Ski, especially if it’s going fast. So why are our day trips to the lake delightful? It’s all about family time.

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Healthy Back to School Habit: the Fruit Bowl
By Donna Bush

Have you ever noticed that as soon as the back to school ads start popping up, you feel this sudden need to stock up on packages of gummy snacks, granola bars, single-serve bags of chips and cookies, and multi-packs of juice boxes or pouches? Is it because we think that back to school means more snacking? Well, I’m not sure if that’s true. But I do know that all that processed food is one reason our nation’s children (and their parents) are becoming more and more obese with each passing year.

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Tomato and Corn Salad

2010-10-18T01:52:00.000-04:00

Scheduling My Life

By Kristy Powers

...Ah, yes, scheduling my life. I've gone through years of research, trying different methods of scheduling my days and putting a few of them into practice. As with many things, I didn't get down to serious business with my own schedule until I had kids....

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Tomato and Corn Salad

In a large bowl, combine the first eight ingredients. In a large skillet, saute corn and garlic in oil until tender. Stir in mustard.

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Finding Time to Volunteer and Give Service

By Shiloah Baker

For years when I heard or read the word "Volunteer" I would cringe. I am so busy already, why should I add more to my already hectic schedule by volunteering? Perspective changes when ones knowledge increases and you realize the importance of giving of your time and talents. I decided to take a second look into the world of volunteering and schedule my life accordingly.....

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Golden Squash Bake

Combine bacon, eggs, onion, cottage cheese, flour and bouillon. Add squash, mix well. Pour into greased 12 x 7 baking dish, top with cheese and bake 20-25...

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How to Make Homemade Italian Pizza and Ice Cream with Kids

2010-10-18T01:48:00.001-04:00

Why History Matters

By Janice Hayes

...If nothing else then, history matters because it gives your children a view of the world and times beyond themselves. History also gives us a vast array of characters to learn from. Give history a chance and it will teach you and your children about every virtue, good and bad, from a colorful parade of interesting people. Who couldn't learn about fortitude from a person such as Abraham Lincoln or Robert the Bruce? Or evil from leaders such as Stalin, Mao and Hitler?...

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How to Make Homemade Italian Pizza and Ice Cream with Kids

Cooking with kids can be a fun and exciting time. It is also a great way to spend quality time with your family or friends, watching your friends' children, or when hosting a kid's party at your house. Two of the most favored foods among children (and adults) are ice cream and pizza. Both of these are easy to make from scratch or with machines. No matter which method you choose - you and your kids will have lots of fun not only making the food, but eating it too!

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Revamping a Bedroom with Style and Sophistication in 9 Easy Steps

Adding style and sophistication to your old tired bedroom is easily achieved in nine easy steps. The best part is it will not break your pocket book. With the addition of a few simple items and a fresh coat of paint, you can have a bedroom that looks as though it was fit for a King. To transform your bedroom, follow the nine simple steps....

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Bringing Nature Indoors

Our four-year-old has a tendency these days to whine when we go on our walks. Some of it is probably the broiling August heat in humid Florida. Some of it is not being used to going on long walks on his own two feet - my fault. .

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Knowledge is Power...and Free!

2010-10-18T01:44:00.000-04:00

Knowledge is Power...and Free!

By Trina Boice

Can you believe it's BACK TO SCHOOL time already? While some mothers are celebrating the idea of a quiet, clean house during school hours, others are sad to leave behind the carefree fun of summer spent with their children. My kids think I'm crazy because I absolutely love the smell and anticipation of opening up a new textbook.
For moms who are just a bit envious of their children's opportunity to learn new things at school, I have a goldmine of resources for you! The following web sites include thousands of video lectures from some of the world's top scholars! Knowledge nirvana! And they're all FREE!...

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Comparisons

Have you ever known someone who seemed to have it all together? And her life seemed perfect, and she did all the right things, her life was this amazing example, and you didn't even come close to measuring up. I'm sure we all at one time or another have known someone like this or compared ourselves to someone that we idolized. Sometimes, depending on whether or not we really get to know that person, the external mask comes off a little and you realize that she is human too and has faults like the rest of us.

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Kid's Bedrooms - Clean and Organized Can Coincide

A challenge every family with children faces is keeping the kids' bedrooms organized. Between toys, clothes and school things, it can seem impossible. However, there are ways to get the kids' things organized and have fun at the same time. There are many styles of storage units available. Bright colors and cartoon characters from your child's favorite show is sure to be a hit. By combining different units, you can have a place for everything....

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Buttermilk Rolls

By Shiloah Baker

Rich, soft, and absolutely delicious, these rolls are a crowd pleaser! Top these rolls with real butter when they are fresh from the oven. Did I mention this was an easy recipe? Be a diva in your kitchen today. Enjoy the compliments from the family.

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Pearls and Gems of Homemaking Ideas

2010-10-18T01:36:00.000-04:00

"For me, a cottage should be a sanctuary when the outside world is crazy, we need somewhere peaceful to go." - Brenda DeWitt (Victoria Magazine)

The Homemaking Cottage strives to create a peaceful and informative place online where homemakers can go to find pearls and gems of homemaking ideas, advice and wisdom. We thank you for visiting and hope you'll spend some time perusing our website.

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In the free magazine edition of the Homemaking-Cottage we’re featuring:

Martha Jefferson
By Janice Hayes

There are no known facial images of Martha Jefferson in existence although one silhouette does remain. It is simple, showing a small woman dressed in colonial garb, a white day cap on her head. Still, contemporary descriptions of Thomas Jefferson's wife do exist and they describe her as being a little over five feet tall, slight, with beautiful auburn hair and hazel eyes...

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1, 2, 3 Picnic!
By Kristy Powers

It's summer, and for some of you, this is great picnic weather. Others, like us here in Florida, may want to be inside around noontime! Either way, you can have lots of family fun with easy picnics.

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What We Call Home
By Kristy Powers

Probably many of us feel comfortable in our current homes, whether they are apartments, houses, or some other kind of dwelling, whether they are owned or rented, and whether they are large, small, or medium-sized. Most likely we've had time to set them up (and mess them up) in a way that makes us feel at home. I know I am comfortable in mine and feel anxious at the possibility of losing it...

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The Deluxe Edition is our Premier Online Home and Garden magazine.

Our writers are hard at work to share original and creative ideas:

Family Fun at a Local Farm
By Jamie Turner

Local "pick your own" farms provide hours of fun for the whole family. Visiting these small and mainly family run farms is an easy tradition to start. The memories made will be talked about for years.

Before Heading Out- Crops and weather are not always predictable. Call the night before or early in the morning to make sure it is a good day to pick.

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Belle of the Barbecue
By Donna Bush

In Gone With the Wind, Scarlett O’Hara was the “belle of the barbecue” in her fresh green dress, wide ribbon, and floppy straw hat. Oh, she looked absolutely stunning and casually elegant, but the thought of keeping that fresh look on a blazing summer day is as stifling as that bone-crushing corset she wore. Backyard entertaining in the summer can be fun, but who wants to be outside when the thermometer climbs past 100? If you’re like me, you’d rather take a cool drink inside and keep your hair from frizzing out and your clothes wrinkle-free in the humidity.

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Curtain Topper Ideas
By Shiloah Baker

A well decorate window makes such an impact to the look and feel of a room. Window toppers can be pricey at a home interiors shop if you want to create a more creative or upscale look. Fortunately, there are many shortcuts for creating beautiful window toppers. Many of the items can be found at a discount store, around the house, or various places other than a high end home decorating store.

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Patriotic Charm
By Valerie Steadman

What does our flag mean to you? Right now, wherever you are reading this, I want you to take a moment and think about what the flag represents in your eyes. To me, the flag stands for sacrifice. It stands for the blood of sons and daughters who gave their all, their lives, for my freedom. The flag stands for honor, respecting those who have made a positive difference in history and in the lives of others. The flag is an emblem of reverence, and I often think of the Tomb of the Unknown Soldier at Arlington National Cemetery, crisp uniforms and the sharp click of heels. Old Glory can stand for many things to different people. With modern convenience, news, and politics, it can be easy to forget the sacrifices that our founding fathers made, but it will be to our country's detriment if we should forget.

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Picnics Made Easy
By Donna Bush

Summertime is picnic time. Getting out in the fresh air with family and friends to enjoy a delicious meal can be fun, but it can also be a lot of work. After all, you’ve got to prepare food in one place, pack it up, as well as other items, and then serve it in another. But don’t let that discourage you. Picnics can be simple if you follow these guidelines.

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Gluten and Dairy Free Zucchini Muffins
By Jamie Turner

These muffins can be enjoyed straight out of the oven or frozen for up to 1 month if baking ahead of time.

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Summertime Delights: French Tradition
By Donna Bush

One of our favorite summertime meals is so simple and easy, you may want to make it part of your menu all year round. (In fact, we adapted it for our Easter menu this year.) It all started with the Tour de France. Yep, a bicycle race. See, my husband is a cyclist. And I have a love of all things French. But to be honest, I’m not that thrilled by cycling. And he couldn’t give a rip about most things French. Still, I wanted to find a way to combine our two interests and teach our children a little something about French culture.

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All-American Baked Beans
By Donna Bush

Looking for a simple side dish for your patriotic barbecue? This recipe, originally from Gooseberry Patch, is one of our family’s favorites. It involves little more than opening cans, dumping ingredients into a crock pot, and then turning it on and walking away to spend more time with your guests. I love that it goes together quickly and is ready in as little as two hours. Of course, you can let them simmer longer if necessary. But if you want to pull something together in a hurry, this will fit the bill.

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Red, White, and Blue Decorating
By Donna Bush

Whether you’re celebrating Memorial Day, Flag Day, the 4th of July, or Labor Day, or just want to bring a touch of patriotism to your home, you can look no further than a red, white and blue color scheme for a perfect setting. For an easy, fun take on a patriotic tablescape, try mixing red bandanas, white eyelet and blue denim. What could be more all-American than that?

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Ham and Broccoli Calzone
By Raejean Roberts

Place on greased cookie sheet and brush with remaining egg. Bake at 400 degrees for 20 minutes, until golden brown. These are great to make extra and freeze!

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End of Summer Celebrations
By Raejean Roberts

Many Arizona schools use a modified traditional schedule, which means we only get about 7 weeks of summer vacation. That’s fine with me since by the end of July, we’re pretty withered – so the kids might as well go back to school and enjoy the air conditioning. Since our summer vacation is winding down, I’ve been thinking of some entertaining ways to say good-bye to summer vacation.

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Backyard Bliss
By Donna Bush

The weather has finally warmed up and we’re headed outdoors more than ever. Let those kids run around, toss a Frisbee, make mud pies, blow bubbles and pick daisies. There’s no better place than your own backyard for an afternoon of Otter Pops and lemonade, lounging in a chaise or lawn chair and letting the answering machine pick up the phone.

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Camping - Your Family Mountain Top Experience
By Raejean Roberts

I am not a camper. I don’t even wish I was a camper. I have a hard time understanding why normal, civilized people would spend a week planning, shopping, and packing to leave the comforts of home we have worked hundreds of years to acquire. If camping is so great, why did people invent houses and indoor plumbing? If being dirty is such a treat, why do most homes have at least two showers in them?

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Beware: I Brake for Cemeteries
By Jamie Turner

It was just another summer of visiting the grandparents when something extraordinary crossed my path. A woman visiting the area dropped off a folder filled with information about our family. A goldmine awaited me as I flipped through the charts and read the names of my forefathers. What I soon learned was that names and dates were fine but the real treasure was in the stories. I have been on a never ending adventure tracking down the finer details ever since that summer in my teenage years.

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How to Identify a Phony Freebie Site
By Trina Boice

I love freebies, but how do you differentiate between a free sample from a legitimate company that's trying to solicit new customers from a data harvester that will lead to lots of spam and never send you any freebie?

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Rhubarb Pie
By Valerie Steadman

Rhubarb is a tasty alternative to fruit, especially in pies. This pie recipe is deceptively easy, and so delicious you'll wonder why you've never tried rhubarb before!

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All About Rhubarb
By Valerie Steadman

I grew up with two large rhubarb plants in our garden. They were large and ornamental, and looked a little like Hosta plants. They were, for the most part, ignored by my parents, they finding little use for this treasure trove of flavor. When I began to run my own kitchen, I came across a recipe from my great grandma for rhubarb jam. And I discovered that the true benefit of rhubarb is not good looks, but flavor.

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A Place Called Home
By Donna Bush

What is it that makes a house a home? You may spend months searching for the perfect furniture, paint and draperies. Invest your time studying the practice of feng shui and rearranging your belongings frequently to get the mood “just so.” Place dozens of perfectly posed family portraits on all your walls and bookcases to greet your guests.

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Salmon Pasta Salad
By Donna Bush

My husband requested pasta salad as a side dish for Father’s Day dinner. In general, I find pasta salad kind of ho-hum. I’ve never really liked it, but I wanted to fulfill his request on his special day. So I took a little time to think about what he might like. The beauty of starting with a basic dish that is “ho-hum” is that you can jazz it up in countless ways and customize it to your own tastes and dietary needs to make something spectacular. My husband has had some cholesterol issues and we’ve been able to stabilize them by including omega-3s in his diet, so I kept that in mind when planning the recipe.

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Summer Escape at the Homemaking-Cottage

2010-06-11T20:19:00.002-04:00

“Life is a glorious banquet, a limitless and delicious buffet.” – Maya Angelou

Summer is here and we are feeling the heat. The Homemaking Cottage & Co. has ideas for your children to stay busy from summer boredom and you can all beat the heat by making your own Italian ice! We have so much to offer this month, we’ll just begin to list them:

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In the free magazine edition of the Homemaking-Cottage we’re featuring:

Supporting Dad Creates Harmony in the Home
By Kristy Powers

There's a scenario that plays itself out too often in my home: I feel overworked and then mentally gripe at my husband when he comes home from work and sits on the couch with his computer, while I'm still cleaning up after everyone. Later, in a calmer moment, I am so glad I didn't gripe out loud, though I am still ashamed for my attitude as I did my work....

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For my Dad: Father's Day Surprises Kids can Handle
By Kristy Powers

Does Dad get a new tie every Father's Day? Are the children's gifts to him similar from year to year? Try some new surprises this year that put the kids in charge of Dad's day.

Pick and choose from the list or, in a large family, have each child do one of these jobs that usually belong to their father. Giggles are a nice accompaniment to each "gift".....

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Key Lime Pie
By Shiloah Baker

Easy to make and delicious. It’s the perfect pie to make for the summer.

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For all the fitness buffs and hot mamas working on weight loss, we have articles for you too:

Life is Better When you Exercise
By Shiloah Baker

...or at least it FEELS better!

I hit 37 weeks yesterday. After fruitless contractions last night, I woke up this morning feeling like I'm going to be pregnant forever. Then I started looking pictures of me last June and got depressed- just wanting my life back and feeling so ready to hold this little one....

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Tips for Starting a Running Fitness Program

If you’re looking to get in shape, there’s little that beats running for fitness. Running offers a number of health benefits, weight loss benefits and it offers fast results. If you’re looking to start running for fitness, here are a few tips to keep in mind.

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In the Deals that are Nifty Column we're featuring the following articles:

School's Out, Now What?
By Trina Boice

Yay! School is out! Now what? You’ll have a house full of kids who are looking for something good to do. Not to worry! Sister Thrifty has some inexpensive and FREE ideas for you:

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Celebrating the Graduate
By Trina Boice

It’s that time of year again….time to bid farewell to teachers, textbooks, campus, homework and school chums. It’s always a little bitter-sweet saying goodbye, but that full summer ahead sure takes the sting out fast!

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The Deluxe Edition is our Premier Online Home and Garden magazine.

Our writers are hard at work to share original and creative ideas:

Letterboxing: A Treasure Hunt in Your Own Town
By Jen Voight

This is just like a treasure hunt in your own town! It’s a easy, fun, and cheap way to make summer an adventure and help your kids learn navigational skills.

All over the world, hidden in public, outdoor locations, are thousands of boxes containing...

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Swing the Pendulum Back: Encouraging Men to be Men and Loving, Faithful Husbands and Fathers
By Shiloah Baker

Media influence is as powerful as ever today, and not for the good. Sadly, when was the last time you saw a strong father figure on television or a movie that was respected and not mocked by his wife, children, or peers for who he is and what he stands for? Society is losing the ideal man- the godly man who is stable, wise, a faithful husband, and a loving and involved father.

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The Birthday Box
By Shiloah Baker

Have you ever forgotten someone’s birthday because you have a difficult time finding a system of tracking birthdays that works for you? Are you a visual person and need to see a reminder?

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Fabric Flower Hair Clips
By Raejean Roberts

Girls wearing silk flowers in their hair has been a trend around here for over a year, and now there’s a new twist. I love these fabric flowers! They are so cute and easy to make.

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Fairy Magic Birthday
By Shiloah Baker

Birthdays are magical for children. What can be better than combining a fairy them with the magic of a birthday party? Treat your little birthday princess to a fairy birthday party that will make her dreams come true. From fairy wands to winged cups and other “tiny” details in between, this is a fun birthday- fairy style!

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So Easy Even Dad Can Do It: Santa Fe Pasta Salad
By Brynn Dahlquist

This pasta salad is awesome paired with grilled hot dogs or hamburgers making it an ideal side dish for Dad to mix up with an evening of barbecue. It is also sensational potluck fair that is pretty and doesn't require much of anything which you wouldn't have in a pantry.

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Plant a Pizza Garden
By Jen Voight

Just about everyone loves good Italian food: pizza, lasagna, spaghetti…mmmm! We all love food with freshly grown ingredients, so what could be better than growing your own Italian herb and vegetable garden, sometimes called a pizza garden, with your children?

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Fun Backyard Scavenger Hunts
By Jen Voight

Kids absolutely love a scavenger hunt. There’s an element of excitement and mystery when they are racing for the next clue, wondering what they will find at the end of the hunt. Best of all, this activity can occupy even the most easily bored child. Scavenger hunts are a great way to add an extra measure of fun to finding the Easter basket on Easter morning, or finding a special present on a birthday. It’s a great activity for a party or a rainy day and is suitable for the very young or even adults.

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Perfection vs Reality
By Jen Voight

Picture two different scenarios: in the first, you walk into a new friend’s home and everything is perfect. The children are all clean, dressed in matching clothes, and well-behaved, every sofa cushion is in place, all the toys are put away, and the house looks like it should be featured in a magazine.

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A Date Night For Dad
By Brynn Dahlquist

For many dad's, life with family is a continually fulfilling and inspiring journey with their wives and children. However, by the time kids are around the carefree, whimsical days of courting Mom are well over. Now responsibility, disciplining kids, potty training, bad grades, mowing the lawn and paying bills all seem to creep into the personal time that Dad used to enjoy with his soon to be wife.

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Snow Ice Cream
By Jo Lynn Francis

We made this during our snow falls last winter. In the summer, you can grind up your ice to slushy form and make it for an awesome summer treat.

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Family History Summer Program
By Raejean Roberts

Family history brings families together when I share stories and information with other family members. I felt I had shared my hobby with my children until one of my children was filling out a four generation pedigree chart. I realized I haven’t done a very good job when half my children didn’t know Grandpa’s first name. The first thing I did to spark some interest in our family history was...

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Sour Cream and Onion Biscuits
By Shiloah Baker

Drop by heading tablespoonfuls onto a greased sheet or ungreased baking stone. Sprinkle Parmesan cheese...

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Giving Dad the Day Off
By Brynn Dahlquist

Many of the chores which Dad has around the house come second to the largest chore of all: working to earn a living. As a tribute to all Dad's hard work, have your kids give Dad the day off by doing his chores for him. There are many things kids can do to actually help out, rather than just cause more work for Dad.

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Italian Ice
By Jen Voight

Italian Ice is also known as granita in Italy and is a cool, refreshing summer treat that’s lighter than ice cream or sherbet, and more granular than French sorbet. Reminiscent of a snow cone, Italian ice is easy to make and fun to eat.

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We’re always updating the websites so don’t forget to join our ezines for updates and keep checking the blog! Thank you for visiting us at the Homemaking-Cottage.com.

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Supporting Dad Creates Harmony in the Home

2010-06-10T01:48:00.000-04:00

There's a scenario that plays itself out too often in my home: I feel overworked and then mentally gripe at my husband when he comes home from work and sits on the couch with his computer, while I'm still cleaning up after everyone. Later, in a calmer moment, I am so glad I didn't gripe out loud, though I am still ashamed for my attitude as I did my work....

Read the rest of this article here...

June's Favorite Things

2010-06-10T01:45:00.000-04:00

{A Blog Post}

We at the Homemaking Cottage have a deep sense of gratitude for all the blessings our Heavenly Father has given us. In the spirit of thankfulness each month my writers and I are presenting "Our Favorite Things" in a picture collage.

Here is the month of June's list of favorite things. Each photo is numbered with a brief explanation following the collage.

For my Dad: Father's Day Surprises Kids can Handle

2010-06-10T01:42:00.000-04:00

Does Dad get a new tie every Father's Day? Are the children's gifts to him similar from year to year? Try some new surprises this year that put the kids in charge of Dad's day.

Pick and choose from the list or, in a large family, have each child do one of these jobs that usually belong to their father. Giggles are a nice accompaniment to each "gift".....

Read the rest of this article here...

Delighting in Mothers: Ribbon Crafts, Remembering You and More

2010-05-20T20:58:00.000-04:00

As mothers we carry a child, or several children, one at a time, of course, for approximately nine months, go through labor {otherwise known as hard work} to have this child. To some mothering comes naturally, and other women struggle with certain aspects of motherhood. While going through your everyday life of wiping bottoms and noses and cleaning fingerprints off the wall, it is easy to forget what the big picture is-or is there a big picture? We think there is. Read the rest of this article here...

Mother's Day is in the month of May so we are featuring some articles that encourage and inspire mothers. Be inspired by the Deluxe Edition- the Homemaking Cottage's online Home and Garden magazine.

Le Laundress: Taking some Tips from the French
By Shiloah Baker

For French women, taking care of their bodies and skin is top priority. Since clothing is so close to the skin, it is imperative that there be a delicate and natural balance. Most American women douse our clothes in unnatural scented detergents, many of which are hard on the skin and can cause skin rashes. The detergents and “fabric softeners” we use on a daily basis are hard on the machines we use and hard on clothes causing them to wear out quickly. When we lived in Europe we were not able to use American fabric softeners at all or it would ruin the European machines.

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15 Minute Escapes
by Kristy Powers

Do your own mini-manicure or pedicure without the nail polish. I find that doing a quick routine like the one below on my toenails can actually make them look much better even when I don’t have time to let polish dry.
Click to finish reading...

Ribbon Flower: Ribbon Spool Redux
by Shiloah Baker

Home decorating items can be pricey when you shop at a craft store. Making your own is inexpensive and you can control the colors and finished outcome of each item. This ribbon flower was incredibly easy and fast to make. It will make a lovely addition on a peg, door knob or simply hanging on the wall.

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Mini Cake Pedestals: Ribbon Spool Redux
by Shiloah Baker

Having your own mini cake pedestals is perfect for stacking or adding small decorative items to. As a crafter I use a lot of ribbon and often have piles of spools left over. I just can’t stand seeing those ribbon spools go to waste.

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Make a New Shirt by Dismantling an Old One
by Valerie Steadman

What's a girl to do when an old t-shirt doesn't quite measure up? Take her scissors to it, of course! A few modifications can bring new life to your old shirt, without costing a penny!

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Organizing Ideas for Ribbons and More
by Shiloah Baker

If you are a crafty chick chances are you have many spools or tangled piles of ribbons. The good news is, there are remedies for this crafting malady.

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Refreshing Summer Soups
by Jen Voight

As the summer heats up, cold soups are the way to enjoy a lighter meal. Pair these soups with a light entrée, sandwich, or salad and crusty bread for a refreshing summer meal.

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Chicken Enchiladas
by Raejean Roberts

With Cinco de Mayo just around the corner, make this simple and delicious meal for your family!

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Art of Mothering
by Shiloah Baker

As mothers we carry a child, or several children, one at a time, of course, for approximately nine months, go through labor {otherwise known as hard work} to have this child. To some mothering comes naturally, and other women struggle with certain aspects of motherhood. While going through your everyday life of wiping bottoms and noses and cleaning fingerprints off the wall, it is easy to forget what the big picture is-or is there a big picture?

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Get in the Habit of Stopping Clutter in its Tracks
by Jamie Turner

Clutter can be found everywhere. In today’s modern world we are overloaded with gizmos and gadgets. The “information age” has introduced us to time saving technology however we still have piles of paper. Get in the habit of stopping clutter in its tracks.

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A Simple and Festive Baby Shower
By Jo Lynn Francis

The baby shower was months in planning. Our food choices were simple as I scheduled the shower for a Sunday afternoon after lunch and church. Using our guest of honor's favorites made by her friends. Our menu consisted of a sweet half chocolate/half white, spinach dip with rye bread, a long time favorite pineapple salsa and lime tortilla chips, and the cutest decorated sugar cookies.

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Family Reunion Starters
by Raejean Roberts

One recurring question when getting acquainted at a family reunion is figuring out where everyone fits in on the family tree. I made a descendant chart on poster board starting with my in-laws then their children and grandchildren.

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Make Your Own Compost Bin
by Jen Voight

Having a compost bin is a great way to make your own nutritious compost to enrich the soil in your garden. Compost is a great alternative to using chemical-based fertilizers, especially when you are growing food for your family. Prices on compost bins can vary greatly, costing from $20 to hundreds of dollars. Here’s a way to make a compost bin cheaply.

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Making Habits Stick
by Jen Voight

Look forward 6 months and imagine your life as it will be with your new habit. How are you different? Do people react to you differently? Are your surroundings different? Now look forward 6 months and imagine your life as it will be if you don’t practice your new habit. Do you like what you see?

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My Work is Not a Waste
by Jamie Turner

As a homemaker I am often asked when I will return to the workplace. Didn’t I want to go back to work? What about my career? Why was I "wasting" my education? According to society if my children were school aged then they no longer needed me to be at home.

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Messes that Kid’s Make and How to Clean Them
by Shiloah Baker

If there is one thing that all children are born with- it’s a natural talent for mess making. Children are learning all about life, the home, their place in the family, and how things work. Most parents wish they were a little neater in their approach to learning about life.

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Making Housework Fun
by Jen Voight

One of the job hazards of being a homemaker is boredom and drudgery. In fact, many women shy away from housework because they cannot imagine it can be exciting. Being a homemaker can be like driving a car on a foggy night. Sometimes it’s hard to see the road ahead. Occasionally we make the wrong turns. Our eyes get tired of trying to see in the darkness. All the while, we know there is a beautiful, amazing destination ahead if only we can keep driving. If we don’t enjoy our work, how can we expect our children to develop a healthy work ethic?

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Laundry: How I Keep It Going
by Jo Lynn Francis

When I first became a mommy 19 years ago, laundry was a hard one to keep up with. I have yet to figure out why. It would pile up in the bathroom and bedrooms. There were only three of us but man it felt like 15 of us living there. We would run out of clothes and rush off the laundromat because we needed to get them all washed and it would be easier to do it at one time.

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Your Slip is Showing
by Shiloah Baker

Another feminine trait going slowly away through the modern age of ever changing fashion is modesty. No matter what some may say modesty is still alluring and attractive. The woman’s slip is an undergarment designed with modesty in mind.

The main purpose of a slip is to keep your legs and undergarments covered, especially because the sunlight shining through your skirt or dress shows much more than most people want to see.

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Remembering to Take Care of You
by Jamie Turner

Life can become a blur with the days spent taking care of loved ones and running a household. As wife and mothers it is important to never let our tank reach empty. Therefore we must take the time to nurture our own mind, body and soul.

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Keep Your Sanity by Taking Breaks Throughout the Day
by Jamie Turner

Homemakers do not punch a time clock to begin our days but that also means we never punch off the clock either. Our days (and often nights) are filled with the busyness of taking care of hearth and home. How do you take a break when there is no one to relieve you? How do you keep your sanity when the years are short but the days are long?

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Add Fun and Adventure into Your Life
by Jamie Turner

Challenge yourself to add fun and adventure into your daily life. Act silly and throw caution to the wind. Be spontaneous and break out of your rut. Listen to and indulge your inner child. Be daring and take a risk. Step out of your everyday life –that comfortable environment that you can walk with your eyes closed. Add a little spice and see where it takes you!

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There is Never Such a Thing as a "Wasted" Day
By Shiloah Baker

How many times have you thought to yourself, “I haven’t accomplished a thing I set out to today! It is such a wasted day!” Let’s go over the reasons why no day is ever a wasted day.

We, as homemakers, would all love to be productive during the day and feel a sense of accomplishment every night when going to bed. Reality is, we are human beings and are imperfect.

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Breaking Through a Weight Loss Plateau
by Jen Voight

Most of us have been there: the first few weeks of a commitment to lose weight have been going great. You might have been careful with your eating habits and exercised faithfully and lost several pounds. Then the scale gets stuck and weight loss stalls. This is known as a weight loss plateau, and it is one of the biggest reasons dieters give up and return to their previous eating and exercise habits. After all, why put forth the effort if exercise isn’t going to work?

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Gourmet Double Chocolate Muffins

2010-05-20T20:48:00.000-04:00

When putting the batter into the muffin tins, I like to use one of two methods. The first, method is to use a ¼ cup measuring cup....

Read the Recipe here

The Stories of the Power of Influential Homemakers

2010-05-20T20:46:00.000-04:00

(A Blog Post)

For centuries beautiful words have been written of mothers and their important influence in the lives of every man and woman. Countless stories have been shared of mothers who gave great personal sacrifice for the sake of her children and future generations.

We were all children once and have an acute understanding that children need more that food, clothes, and shelter. Children need positive influence and love. We all have our weaknesses. This is a part of the mortal life we live, but we can always strive to do better.

Read More

Become a Runner

2010-05-20T20:44:00.000-04:00

Running can make you feel powerful, strong, confident, young, and joyful. There's a reason for the popular term "runner's high". Sticking to a discipline of running can pay off - physically, mentally, emotionally, and psychologically.

If you want to begin to run, or if you have run before but need to start from a beginning state of fitness, please keep two things in mind. One is that the feelings of joy and strength usually don't come until weeks or months after the first time you go for a run.....

Read More

Online Home and Garden Magazine

2010-05-12T16:41:00.001-04:00

After MONTHS of preparation in the background----the online Home and Garden magazine is LIVE!

http://www.homemaking-cottage.com

We are so excited about the new Magazine styled front page and the new Home and Garden Deluxe Edition Magazine that we want everyone to try it! For one week starting today 50% off all subscriptions 3 months and up! This makes the 3 month subscription $5!

Use the coupon code: 2010magazine for the 50% off sale.

If you are Deluxe Edition subscriber and share with me your testimonial I will give you one friend or family member a 3 month subscription FREE!

Subscribe NOW!

Don't miss out on this sale! Both sales end May 18th!

Laundry Room Organization

2010-04-30T23:44:00.000-04:00

By Kristy Powers

I like to organize the laundry room and laundry load rotation so that I don't have to think much from day to day, just put in the load I want (or need). I do one or two loads per day because I find it fits in...

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One Homemaker's Savings: Add it All Up

2010-04-30T23:42:00.000-04:00

Full-time homemakers don't earn a paycheck. Although we can stay busy all day long and into the night, seven days a week, we don't get monetary bonuses or a salary. So how much is our work worth?

The total value of a homemaker providing healthy meals, structure, organization, driving services, hugs and kisses, grocery shopping, gardening and yard work, cleaning services, decorating, activity planning, teaching and training, reading aloud, and fun times is intangible. It's impossible to truly measure the enrichment a homemaker can provide. This article focuses on one stay-at-home homemaker (me) and ways that I can add to my family's financial health.

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Le Laundress: Taking some Tips from the French

2010-04-30T23:38:00.003-04:00

For French women, taking care of their bodies and skin is top priority. Since clothing is so close to the skin, it is imperative that there be a delicate and natural balance. Most American women douse our clothes in unnatural scented detergents, many of which are hard on the skin and can cause skin rashes. The detergents and "fabric softeners" we use on a daily basis are hard on the machines we use and hard on clothes causing them to wear out quickly. When we lived in Europe we were not able to use American fabric softeners at all or it would ruin the European machines...

Read the rest of this article

Inspiration and Articles to Support the Ultimate Career: Homemaking

2010-04-30T23:21:00.002-04:00

“The homemaker has the ultimate career. All other careers exist for one purpose only – and that is to support the ultimate career. ”
— C.S. Lewis
It’s another fresh week and we at the Homemaking Cottage are brimming with new and delightful ideas for you on the Deluxe Edition.
This week we are tackling the laundry and sharing some ideas on entertaining. There is always some thing new on our Deluxe Edition Online Home and Garden magazine. We know you’ll be delighted!
Subscribe today!

Charming Moss Covered Wreath Duo
By Shiloah Baker
Bring nature indoors with this stunningly beautiful moss covered wreath duo. The simplicity of the design makes it complimentary to most home décor. Change the color of the ribbon to match your style and taste…
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Laundry: How white is white?
By Valerie Steadman
Laundry is the constant chore, the “Mount Washmore” each homemaker must climb. We try to eliminate unnecessary steps in order to free ourselves a little time, but I have a problem. My whites are dingy…
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Second Time Around Recycled Crafts for Kids
By Jo Lynn Francis
One of my favorite past times is going to the thrift stores, especially in the spring when the winter clothing is on clearance, and collect the wool/natural fiber sweaters. I take apart the sweater for the yarn. My daughters and I love to make hats and scarves with my round looms. Some of the sweaters I have found I also used to make upcycled longies out of the sleeves for my cloth diapering babies…
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5 Helpful Hints for Taming the Laundry
by Brynn Dahlquist
Laundry is one of those fabulous household jobs that never end. With all the time, energy, money, folding, pre-spotting, and attempting to get weird stains out of my son’s clothes it seems like such a daunting task. Sometimes I wish my family would just move to a nudist colony and get over this whole wearing clothes thing. When I take a second to think about it, and look in the mirror rather closely…
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Prepare your Body for Pregnancy like a Marathon Runner
By Shiloah Baker
Fifty pounds overweight, tired, and feeling that life was over as I knew it several months after having my seventh child I decided something had to change. After searching and praying for help, I found a wellness consultant. She looked at the sad condition my body was in: exhausted and worn out. I felt that a high quality of life could never improve for me and that I was doomed to this condition. I never imagined life with energy again. She went over all of my symptoms and then in a motherly way explained…
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Minutes Add up to Learning for Children
by Jamie Turner
As parents, teachers and caregivers the 24 hours we get each day is jammed packed with taking care of the children in our lives. If we would perform double duty during certain times of the day those little minutes would add up to big amounts of learning. Try these activities to make the most of your time…
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Preserving the Fiber Arts
by Jo Lynn Francis
Society sees knitting as a social activity similar to quilting, spinning and needlepoint, however; I see these crafts as an essential part of American history and need to be preserved. I am a knit and crochet fiber artist. I prefer to use only natural fibers to create clothing and blankets and hand crafted items. On the weekends I teach knit and crochet classes to women in my church.
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Ladies Hat History
by Jen Voight
There’s something extremely feminine about a lady wearing a hat. Whether it be a simple muslin bonnet, an elaborate and substantial Edwardian tea hat or the flourishes of a Victorian era hat, all make a statement to the world about what the wearer believes about being a woman.
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Thrifty Decorating: Bookend Revival
By Valerie Steadman
How many times have we looked at an item in a thrift store, and thought it would be nice if it was a different color? Those days are gone!
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So Easy Even Dad Can Do It: Chicken and Wild Rice Casserole
By Brynn Dahlquist
My son used to call this “Pot food,” because when his dad made it all that was needed was one big pot. It is literally that easy! Chicken and Wild Rice Casserole is my go to recipe when I am sick, when something has come up last minute, or when life is in such a rush that there just hasn’t been time to prepare Dad for making dinner. Filled with chicken, gravy, and topped with cheese, Chicken and Wild…
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How to Throw a “What’s In the Bump?” Party
By Jen Voight
There’s a fun new party for expectant moms to share the news of their baby’s sex. It’s a “What’s In the Bump?” party. It’s a fun way for a pregnant mom to share the news with her friends and relatives after she gets the results of her ultrasound. This would be a great way to celebrate the pregnancy of a mom who already has other children and doesn’t need baby shower gifts.
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Weddings on a Budget
By Raejean Roberts
My oldest child was married earlier in the year. Even though she took care of most of the planning, I learned some firsthand tactics to create an affordable wedding. It’s important to remember the wedding is an event, not the destination.
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Economy Home Decor

2010-04-21T00:00:00.000-04:00

By Shiloah Baker

You can decorate your home on any income and in any economy without breaking the budget, or even bending it. You can decorate rich on a shoestring. Sadly, all the marketing techniques, commercials, and media make everyone feel that when they want or need home furnishings or décor it is expensive, should always be bought brand new, and most depressingly-that it can and should be purchased on credit. None of those three things are necessary or desirable when decorating your home with a growing family...

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Two Challenges for the Family Home

2010-04-20T23:58:00.000-04:00

By Shiloah Baker

We are blessed not to have to work as hard as our ancestors, but what are we doing with all that saved time? Hard work is still a necessary part of physical and emotional health. We teach our family good healthy habits by continuing to work around the house and stay active and involved instead of sitting around watching hours of television or playing video games. Boredom is a state of mind.

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When Letting Go Can Lead to a Better Home

2010-04-20T23:54:00.000-04:00

By Kristy Powers

There is an ideal I have in mind when it comes to the cleanliness of my home. Whether I clean a lot or a little, I can feel frantic or guilty about living up to that ideal. When a crisis hits, though, like the need for an additional income, a child's illness, or the death of someone close to us, that is the time I find out what I can let go of in my household.

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Decorating Your Home with Hydrangeas

2010-04-20T23:44:00.000-04:00

Decorating Your Home with Hydrangeas

Round, full, and vibrant with color the hydrangea is the perfect flower for decorating in the home. Hydrangeas are a very popular flower among decorators. They are also especially popular among coastal areas. There are varieties that do grow well in other areas of the country, and the world as I grew some in Germany too. They are also a beautiful plan to grow indoors in your home or studio.

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Elegant Cork Board Organizer

2010-04-20T23:42:00.000-04:00

By Shiloah Baker

Picture frames, old or new, can be used to make useful and decorative wall organizers. I prefer going for the old frames to repurpose, however once in a while a good deal on a frame comes along and it is too good to resist. This oval frame was one of those deals. Marked down over 80% because the glass was broken, I bought this frame for $2.50. WOW! Who needs glass anyway? I was going to put it in my stash of glass to one day find a purpose for. It just saves me time and storage not having to worry about the glass. One stores junk is another woman's treasure!

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The 25 Most Influential Homemakers: A Call to Nomination

2010-04-20T23:33:00.000-04:00

FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE:

The 25 Most Influential Homemakers: Call for Nominations

Colorado – March 24, 2010 –

Ask virtually any public figure about the most influential woman in his or her life, and you'll get the same answer, over and over again: "My mother." Mothers very rarely get the recognition they deserve for their self-sacrifice and unending love, but the Homemaking Cottage (www.homemaking-cottage.com) wants to change that. In honor of Mother's Day (May 9, 2010), the Homemaking Cottage announces the "Most Influential Homemakers" contest to identify today's greatest living homemakers having an impact on the families and world around them.

Founding editor Shiloah Baker says, “Mothers are the behind-the-scenes, in-the-minivan heroines of numerous stories, and they deserve to be celebrated. It is the everyday woman that makes the largest impact on raising the future generation of our country. We are glorifying the everyday wife and mother."

The contest is open to nominations from now until April 30, 2010. To nominate a woman in your life, please do the following:

• Write an essay of at least 300 words on the woman you would like to nominate. Tell of her life, achievements, her service (volunteer, charities, etc), personal sacrifices for the benefit and love of others, and/or other notable and worthy characteristics. Please send the typed entry via Microsoft Word.

• Please include a photo of your nominee.

• Also include your contact information so you may be contacted for more details.

• Submit your entry by email to: momof8@homemaking-cottage.comThis e-mail address is being protected from spam bots, you need JavaScript enabled to view it , or email for a postal mailing address.

25 winners will be selected and featured on the homepage of Homemaking Cottage, and may receive additional prizes. For sponsorship information, please contact Mrs. Baker at momof8@homemaking-cottage.comThis e-mail address is being protected from spam bots, you need JavaScript enabled to view it .

About Homemaking Cottage: Homemaking Cottage was founded by Shiloah Baker in 1998, with the goal of inspiring women worldwide in their roles at home and within the family. The site receives several million visitors a year through the website and blogs. Homemaking Cottage's purpose is to mentor, help, inspire, teach and uplift all women in fulfilling their roles as homemakers and mothers to their fullest capacity. We hope that by sharing our stories, thoughts, articles and ideas that we will touch and mentor women everywhere.

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Contact: Shiloah Baker, momof8 @homemaking-cottage.com

Twitter: pinkghinghamom

Facebook: Shiloah Baker

www.Homemaking-Cottage.com

Free ebook: A Homemakers Guide to a Better Home

2010-02-11T21:33:00.002-05:00

Want to be the ultimate mother, wife, homemaker?

We can show you how with our FREE ezines! Not only will you get frequent emails full of useful information for women in the home, but you will ALSO receive our FREE ebook: A Homemakers Guide to a Better Home. Regular Price $5.74~ When you subscribe it's FREE as a thank you gift.

A Homemakers Guide to a Better Home
By the Homemaking Cottage

Regular Price ~~$5.74~~~ This ebook is FREE as a thank you gift for Subscribing to our Ezine!

January 19, 2010 Homemaking Newsletter: Femininity

2010-01-20T17:27:00.000-05:00

Great news for our Homemaking Cottage visitors! We added two new subscription options:

The one month subscription and the 2 year subscription, which saves you 15%.

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"One of your unique, precious, and sublime gifts is your femininity, with its natural grace, goodness, and divinity. Femininity is not just lipstick, stylish hairdos, and trendy clothes. It is the divine adornment of humanity. It finds expression in your qualities of your capacity to love, your spirituality, delicacy, radiance, sensitivity, creativity, charm, graciousness, gentleness, dignity, and quiet strength. It is manifest differently in each girl or woman, but each of you possesses it. Femininity is part of your inner beauty."

-James E. Faust, "Womanhood: The Highest Place of Honor," Ensign, May 2000

From January through March the Homemaking Cottage will be featuring "All Things Feminine". Articles and ideas to enhance femininity will be featured through the website and blog.

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Inspiration and Ideas for Collecting Items for Tea Parties (Deluxe Edition Article)

2010-01-20T16:57:00.000-05:00

By Shiloah Baker

Tea parties for women can be the perfect time to enjoy conversation and have a delightful, yet elegant party. The fun in putting together charming tea parties today is the variation you can indulge in with the collection of tea sets, props and all the accessories involved. The more varied the tea cup and teapot collection, the more fun and appealing. Did you know that even in Victorian times they did not always have matching tea cups at the table?
....

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Care and Keeping of Lingerie

2010-01-20T16:55:00.001-05:00

By Shiloah Baker

Women all have delicate and dainty undergarments for special occasions and for daily wear. Like expensive silverware most lingerie is not used on a daily basis and to ensure they last ideas gentle and consistent care is most important. Even items such as bras and pantyhose should be taken care of in the following manner....

Read the rest of the article here

Dress The Way You Are Pretty Women

2010-01-20T14:32:00.000-05:00

By Guarav Doshi

Our outfit is one of the most important aspects of our personality and social life. Nature has given men or women varying features and body structures. Some ladies are thin, some fat, some tall, some in combinations, etc. Therefore dressing has to be specified according to the body types and structure. One outfit that looks stunning on pear shaped figure might not suit at all to woman with rectangular body type....

Read the rest of this article on The Homemaking Cottage

Shabby Chic Chalkboard from a Thrift Store Frame (Deluxe Edition Preview)

2010-01-20T14:20:00.000-05:00

By Shiloah Baker

Repurpose an old frame into a gorgeous shabby chic chalkboard. Looking around the thrift stores, I finally found what I was looking for, a large wooden frame with a wide, decorative edge. It wasn't pretty, but I saw the potential for something marvelous. The frame is solid wood and we paid $5 for it. What a find!....

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Cinnamon & Sugar Fruit Dip

2010-01-20T14:11:00.000-05:00

By Shiloah Baker

Ingredients:

8 oz. cream cheese, softened
4 oz. sour cream
1/4 c. brown sugar
1/4 c. white sugar
1/2 tsp. cinnamon
1 tsp. vanilla
Nuts (opt.)

Directions:

Mix well. Eat with bananas, strawberries, pineapple, apple. Your favorite fruit.By

The Values of Being Happy and Grateful for What You Have

2009-09-06T20:01:00.000-04:00

By Richard Rizza

We are surrounded by lack. The lack of money to buy gas for our cars, the lack of time to make more money and a lack of gratitude for what we have. Fortunate or not we can always be worst off than we are now and somebody always has it worst than we do.

The best way for us to value our present day happiness and gratitude for what we have is to live up to our potential. I don't know any happy people who can't pay their mortgage yet they are happy. If you can't pay your mortgage you can't be happy but you can be grateful if you can afford to rent another house or an apartment.

Happiness is earned and it will never come to you no matter how much money you have.

Read the rest of the article here

Enhance Your Home With Creative Ideas from The Homemaking Cottage Deluxe Edition

2009-08-12T13:25:00.002-04:00

Starting today All new Deluxe Edition Memberships on sale!
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Enhance your homemaking skills and improve your life with ideas from The Homemaking Cottage Deluxe Edition subscription.

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Recent Deluxe Edition Updates!

The Price of Things
By Raejean Roberts

I love getting new stuff; new clothes, new scrapbook supplies, new things for the house, even groceries. There is a certain thrill of bringing home a bag of new treasures! Once I’m home, I take the treasures out of the bag, admire them again and
put them away.

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Create a Summertime Cookbook

By Lori Nawyn

This summer while you’re creating something yummy for the backyard barbecue, family reunion, or picnic in the park, compile all your favorite summertime recipes and plan your own cookbook. Summer family fun time is great....

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Other Deluxe Articles:

Celery au Gratin by Shiloah Baker
German Cucumber Salad by Shiloah Baker
Creamy Cucumbers by Shiloah Baker
Tangy Fiesta Cauliflower by Shiloah Baker
Pork Chops with Sauerkraut by Shiloah Baker
Cherry Sauce for Pork Roast by Shiloah Baker

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Whether I need help organizing, meal planning, celebrating, or finding inspiration and advice when motherhood pushes you to the limits, I have found a trusted resource in the Homemaking Cottage."

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There is a lot to this website and a subscription is quite a bargain at $36, about what you would pay for a premium magazine. But remember...you get to read ALL the information written for the site. User receive 24 hour a day access to the over 891 original articles/recipes/crafts and 20% off anything in the website store.

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In addition to being resourceful, the layout of the website is lovely and easy to navigate. All of the articles are divided into eleven subject headings, the links to which you can easily find in the right side bar. A few of my favorites, and the ones I frequented were, Family, Fair Lady and Holidays. I think overall, Family was probably my favorite, I got a lot of wonderful ideas for planning some fun evenings together with my family!

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Provide Routine and Structure for Your Children with a Daily Home Schedule

2009-08-06T11:00:00.003-04:00

By Janet Nusbaum

Devoting time to establish consistency and structure is often one of the biggest challenges that parents face when trying to teach responsibility to their children. Life skills are best learned by example and repetition, meaning that consistency is of utmost importance in building the skills that your children will need in the future in order to survive successfully in today's society.

While imposing a daily home schedule may seem restrictive, the opposite is actually true. Children need to be able to depend on the adults in their lives and they feel safe and secure when they have a structure and routine to count on. Children do not yet have the maturity level to know how to structure their time on their own. They learn these skills from institutions like school and from the adults in their lives. For the parents, establishing a family schedule provides consistency and routine in a busy household. Consider our society in general, and you will find time schedules regulating most everything we do. Companies have standard hours, schools offer classes with a defined beginning and end, and mass transportation runs on a tight, proven schedule that is dependable to all who use it.

By establishing and posting a daily schedule in your home that includes chores and times that tasks are expected to be performed and completed, you are providing the structure and consistency that your children need in order to grow and mature. Schedules at home help regulate your children's lives so that they have a model to learn from that they can take into their adult lives.

Start with a morning routine that includes daily tasks required to get ready for a new day. Have a set time to be out of bed and a list of preparatory activities, including getting dressed, brushing teeth, and combing hair. Give a reasonable time frame to complete these activities, and require the children to be at the breakfast table by a certain time.

After breakfast, allow time for checking that all school supplies and homework are properly stored in backpacks and any accessories - gloves, jackets, etc - can be donned in time to either get in the car or meet the school bus. Once you have set a morning regime, it is time to work out the evening plans, outlining homework time, mealtime, showers, chores, and any other activities that are involved in daily life, while still maintaining a consistent bedtime. We are a sleep deprived culture. Make efforts not to pass this way of life on to the next generation.

Establishing a visible daily schedule for your children to follow provides consistency and a foundation from which they can build on. It will also help you with organizing your own day because you will now have a structure and schedule to manage your time effectively and efficiently as well. With a daily schedule in place for the adults, prevents you from having to reinvent the wheel every day. All family members know the routine and in that they learn and can trust. Providing these routines and structure for your children while they are young not only provides them with a model of how to manage a home and how to perform routine home tasks, but it also helps them develop critical time management life skills that are essential to later life success.

Copyright (c) 2009 Simplified Spaces

Janet Nusbaum (AKA the Organizing Genie), WAHM of two, is an Organizing Consultant, Speaker & Author of 'Mom, Can I Help Around the House? A Simple Step-by-step System for Teaching your Children Life-long Skills for Pitching in & Picking up'. Grab a FREE chapter of her book & household chore system by visiting http://www.KidsandChores.net. Get even more organizing & family management help by visting her blog: http://www.TheOrganizingGenie.com

Healthy Breakfast Tips for Kids

2009-08-06T11:00:00.002-04:00

By Tracee Bergmann

Breakfast is the biggest and most important meal of the day. You need to make sure that your kids take in a proper breakfast to be able to give them the right amount of energy that they need for the entire day. When your kids sleep during the night, the body uses up the energy that is stored in the cells and a correct breakfast will allow the body to recharge and get a jump start for the rest of the day. Aside from this, studies prove that children who eat a good breakfast perform better in school and grow faster as well. Don't think that giving your kids just anything will do, there are certain things that are needed to ensure that your child's body is fueled properly.

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Oatmeal Recipes: Simple & Quick Breakfast Ideas

2009-08-06T11:00:00.001-04:00

By Laura Cockerell

These oatmeal recipes will help to add a little extra flavor to Blueberries in Oatmeal an old favorite. Oatmeal is a healthy and delicious way to start the day and these quick breakfast ideas are simple and easy to prepare.

There are a lot of flavorful oatmeal varieties on the market but there is a lot of sugar added to these and I prefer to make my own additions where I can control the sweetener and use more natural ingredients.

You can use plain oatmeal either instant, rolled, or steel-cut oats for these recipes. Just follow the package directions when preparing the oatmeal. All you need to do is add these additions on top of your cooked oatmeal and swirl them into your hot cereal.

Quick Breakfast Ideas with Oatmeal Toppings:

** Cranberries, walnut pieces and a drizzle of honey

** Raisins, cinnamon and a light sprinkle of brown sugar

** Chopped pecans and diced apples

** A spoonful of plain non-fat Greek yogurt and diced peaches with a dusting of nutmeg

** A spoonful of pumpkin butter, maple syrup and chopped walnuts

** Sliced bananas and a little low-fat plain or raisin granola

** Diced dried apricot with a drizzle of honey or maple syrup

** Strawberry or blueberry all-fruit spread and plain non-fat yogurt

** Drained fruit cocktail (in fruit juice - not syrup)

** Cinnamon or berry applesauce

** Sliced strawberries and a sprinkling of mini chocolate chips

** Strawberries, blueberries and raspberries tossed in brown sugar

** Chopped dates and a sprinkling of toasted coconut

** Any nut butter of your choosing such as: peanut butter, almond butter, cashew butter, etc.

** Ground flaxseed and dried cherries

** Wheat germ and cream or soy cream

** A spoonful of flavored yogurt (look for a natural brand)

** A spoonful of low-fat whipped cream cheese and a spoonful of your favorite all-fruit spread

** Canned, crushed pineapple (drain before adding to cereal) with some chopped walnuts

** Sliced peaches, grated ginger and a little cream

Oatmeal doesn't have to be boring. With just a little bit of creativity you can make it something different and flavorful every time. Use your imagination and your oatmeal breakfast will always be delicious.

Visit http://www.quick-salad-recipes.com for these easy oatmeal recipes and a large selection of free recipes that are streamlined for speed, flexibility and ease of preparation along with menu planners that provide a wide variety of ideas for simple, flavorful and quick meals for every day of the week throughout the year.

June 22, 2009 Homemaking Cottage Newsletter

2009-06-22T09:50:00.000-04:00

When you have children you have birthday parties to throw each year. I find in having seven children that there are times I feel stumped as to what theme we will do for the next upcoming party. If you have this problem too, you are sure to enjoy the birthday party ideas The Homemaking Cottage offers.

This homemaking ezine's theme is all about birthdays to inspire some creative party ideas for your children to enjoy.

Don't forget: The Homemaking Cottage is now on Facebook! We invite you to Become a Fan, then join us on our group page, and don't forget to add me as a friend. We can also be found on Twitter!

Pretty in Pink Party Hat (Deluxe Edition Article)

2009-06-22T09:48:00.000-04:00

By Shiloah Baker

Make your own party hat. Perfect for children or adults. You can tailor these to any theme you wish and make them as simple or elaborate as possible.....

Click to finish reading... If you are not a Deluxe Edition member join today!

2009-06-22T09:45:00.000-04:00

Subscribe to our one year Deluxe Edition subscription and receive a free eCookbook entitled
101 Ground Beef Recipes

Work at Home Moms Make the Happiest Homemakers

2009-06-17T19:35:00.000-04:00

By Dustan Heath

Let's face it; being a parent isn't an easy task. As a matter of fact, it takes more time than a full time job because you're on call twenty-four, seven. Then, you ask yourself, why do work at home moms make for the happiest homemakers? Isn't it just more work being put on their shoulders, up and above all of the parenting duties they have to do? Well, the answer to that is yes and no. Yes, it is more work. Work at home moms have a lot more work on their hands trying to run a family, a household, and a business. No, it's not necessarily a bad thing....

Read the rest of the article...

Featured Article in The Deluxe Edition

2009-06-17T19:33:00.000-04:00

For those who are watching their calories and portion sizes buying the 100 calorie packs of snacks isn't the best option for healthy eating. They contain hidden preservatives and usually contain sugar. Instead, use this list as a guide for 100 calorie portions of everyday whole and healthy foods.

You must be a member of the Deluxe Edition to view article.

Join Today!

Don't Waste Time or Space: Organize Your Closet

2009-01-24T19:03:00.000-05:00

By Andrew Caxton

One of the ironies of life today is that, for all the labor-saving devices and speedy transportation we possess, we still feel as if there is not enough time in the day to accomplish everything we want to do.

Do you feel the time crunch? Give a thought to your daily activities. How much time do you spend looking for things that you've misplaced or lost - such as car keys, grocery lists, or the clothing your kids need before they go to school, etc.

And it's not just a matter of you spending five minutes looking for something you've misplaced. That's five minutes that you could have spent doing something else. So that's actually ten minutes lost out of your day. And those minutes add up so that at the end of the day...and week...and month, you don't know where the time has gone.

If you can stop wasting time looking for misplaced items, then you'll have more time to spend getting your work done, and thus more time to spend in leisure activities such as reading or playing sports.

There's an old saying that's as important today as it has ever been, "A place for everything and everything in its place."

And that includes your closet. (And perhaps more importantly if you have children, your kid's closets!)

If you're able to look into your closet and see all your clothing hanging neatly, and in organized fashion (all blouses together, all t-shirts together, all sweatshirts together, all light dresses together, all dark, and so on), then it's the work of a moment to choose the matching items you need for the day. (And indeed, if you make your decision the evening before and set out the next day's clothing then, you'll be even more ahead of the game).
It's easier than ever to organize your closet. There all sorts of systems out on the market - trees on which to place shoes, shelves that slide out so you can reach things easily, and multi-tiered rack systems - all so that you can reduce the clutter in your closet. These systems come in a variety of prices, of course, from the most inexpensive plastic varieties to the more elegant - and consequently expensive, systems made from wood or metal.

With an organized closet, you'll find that you have a lot more space in which to place items that you want close at hand. You'll save time because everything will be at your fingertips. You'll reduce changes of accident - stepping on something breakable because it's hidden underneath a casually thrown shirt, or having a heavy box fall on your head because you've got them stacked precariously on a top shelf.

The cliche with kids - from toddlers to teens - is that given the option they would live in a messy room. That's certainly true of toddlers, but you owe it to your kids to teach them, as soon as they are able to properly grasp the concepts, of the common-sense virtues of organization. For their time is precious, also.

Andrew Caxton is a journalist who has written more articles and newsletters on this subject for http://www.home-decorating-reviews.com. You can find more information and closet organizers on closet organizers at his website.

The Cost of Disorganization...Can You Afford it?

2009-01-24T18:55:00.000-05:00

By Patty Kreamer

For many, being organized means a place for everything and everything in its place. For others, it means nothing. The true definition of being organized is being able to find things when you need them, not 3 weeks later.

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More Organizing Articles on the Main Website

Featured Article in The Deluxe Edition

2008-11-24T13:57:00.000-05:00

Include in your kit one change of clothing and footwear for each member of the family, preferably work clothing. Anticipate severe weather conditions. Conserving your body heat is extremely important. IF you have a growing family, update clothing sizes and needs at least once a year. Consider seasonal changes. A good suggestion is every General Conference.....

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Thanksgiving Holiday Decorating Tips

2008-11-24T13:52:00.000-05:00

By Jeannette Joy Fisher

Create an exciting and welcoming home for your Thanksgiving festivities.

Five "Welcome to Our Home" Holiday Decorating Tips

1. Door wreaths welcome all to your home and set the stage for celebrating. Make a simple wreath to hang on your front door with Thanksgiving colors--brown, russet, olive green. Use tree branches from your garden; attach a few gourds, nuts, raffia, and ribbons.

2. Place a gorgeous mum by your front door. You can plant it later and get flowers next Thanksgiving to use inside. It just takes one bright spot near your front door to attract the eye of arriving guests.

3. Wrap your front door with gift wrap appropriate to Thanksgiving.

4. Make a "welcome to our home" banner. Add your ribbons, raffia, and fall leaves.

5. Group vines, pumpkins, and mums for display impact near the front entrance. Adjust the vines to add height and movement.

Fall Leaves make great interior and exterior decorations. Be sure to hose off any bugs!

Five Holiday Decorating Tips for Your Home's Interior

1. Display vegetables and mini pumpkins on a tray. Fill in any gaps with fall leaves, moss, raffia, or wheat. If orange clashes with your home's interior, use green apples and spray paint the mini-pumpkins your colors.

2. Tie ribbons and raffia around your candle bases and around your floral arrangements.

3. Set fall-color leaves under your decorations. Safety Tip: Keep leaves separated from melting candle wax.

4. Extend your flower arrangements with fall tree branches. Just one flower package makes a huge impact when you divide and spread it around.

5. Use copper, bronze, and gold spray paint to dress up plain gourds. Fill a glass or crystal bowl with the gourds, oranges, and nuts.

Did I already mention gorgeous red, golden leaves? Here's another way to add fall color: Place the leaves in your green potted-plants.

One beautiful way to kick off your holiday season: Wrap tiny gifts in gold foil; top off with brown and russet ribbons, and place the gifts on the dinner plate. Your table will look fabulous and your guests will love the thought.

Happy Thanksgiving!

_________________________________

Free holiday decorating teleclass, "Interior Design Secrets to Glorious Holiday Decorating" and more holiday decorating tips Joy Holidays Decorating http://JoyHolidays.com

Do Ahead Tips for Thanksgiving

2008-11-24T13:34:00.000-05:00

By O Quinn

Use a small notebook for planning your holiday meal. Use this book to keep track of menus, recipes, shopping lists and other items for your Thanksgiving dinner.

Write, copy, or cut your recipes and paste them into this notebook. Review each recipe thoroughly so there are no surprises when it comes time to cook.

Put together your shopping list. Have one for perishable items such as fruits, vegetables, meats and desserts, and another for non-perishables such as table decorations, and canned items. Take care of the non-perishables well in advance and put them away for safe keeping.

If you have ironing such as table cloths and napkins get that days before the dinner and put them away to be freshly kept until Thanksgiving.

Set your dinner table in advance. If it can't be trusted due to the kids and pets the night before set it several hours before your dinner. One less thing to do.

Make your list of items can be made a few days in advance.

Desserts such as pies and even cakes can be made and kept a day advance. Pie crusts freeze very well and can be make several days in advance.

The bread for your stuffing whether cornbread or sourdough is best if a day or two old. I use cornbread for our Thanksgiving stuffing and make the bread the day before.

Casseroles and a few side dishes can be made the day before.

Chopped vegetables such as carrots, celery, onions can be prepared in advance and refrigerated until needed. I use these to make gravy and also in my stuffing. My husband chops them for me and we keep them in the refrigerator until needed.

Potatoes do well if peeled and chopped and kept in cold water in the refrigerator until needed.

Be efficient when in the kitchen and clean up after yourself as you go. Just think if after dinner the only dishes to do will the ones eaten off of. Keep a sink full of hot soapy water and places dishes you're finished with in there as you are cooking.

Put away an ingredient when you are done with it.

Clean up after dinner will be a breeze.

Happy Thanksgiving

For more information on cleaning and organizing your home visit Homemaking Organized. And for tips on taking care of you visit

Beauty for Mommy

Addicted to Vintage Aprons

2008-10-26T16:32:00.000-04:00

One of the biggest trends for women today is the vintage women's apron. Most of our grandmothers used aprons as a part of their daily life. They wore them every day in order to protect their clothes, and found many other uses for them as well:

1. Using as an oven mitt....

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(This gorgeous apron was created by: LuAnn Smith of Back Home Again . Check out her blog as well!)

Look at Aprons for Children

2008-10-26T16:28:00.000-04:00

By Thomas Morva

Child aprons can serve many purposes. Daycare centers often use child aprons, often called smocks, to protect the children's clothing while painting or doing other art and craft projects. Parents certainly appreciate their usage. Can you imagine the ruined clothes the children would have if it were not for the use of child aprons? Little hands are likely to wipe paint on the most convenient surface and luckily for parents, child aprons are handy and accessible.

Children also enjoy cooking. Their natural curiosity will lead them to create some very interesting entrees; child cookbooks have sprung up everywhere and more kids are cooking than ever before. Child aprons can make their kitchen learning experiences much cleaner. Instead of worrying about stained clothing, using a child apron will take the mess and leave the child much cleaner.

Aprons, although not on the forefront of everyone's mind, are a necessary and very useful item. From their beginnings to the fad of humorous aprons designed for nearly everyone, aprons have come a long way. Child aprons are available in a variety of sizes, colors, fabrics and designs. Nearly every apron specialty store offers child-sized aprons. Children will love the colorful and cute aprons personalized just for them and will likely make them more interested in what goes on in the kitchen; what a perfect way to train a budding adult chef!

_________________________________
Aprons Info provides detailed information about various types of aprons, including humorous, personalized, child, cooking, and lead aprons, as well as apron sinks, and more. Aprons Info is affiliated with Original Content.

Make a Kid's Towel Apron (Deluxe Edition Article)

2008-10-26T14:22:00.000-04:00

Most childhood aprons that are worn often and used for honest hard work can create lovely memories for a child as she is growing. My mother was a homemaker who enjoyed aprons and she was always making new ones. My favorite apron is the one my mom made when I was around ten years old. I still own it today. It is made of pink eyelet material and is ruffled and is the very essence of femininity. I wore whenever she would let me as I loved being in the kitchen making brownies and Bonnie Butter cake. Today my daughter, Chrisy who is ten, adores this apron probably as much as I do and she fits it perfectly.

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Cute Aprons are the Latest Must Have Kitchen Fashion Accessory

2008-10-26T14:14:00.000-04:00

By Scarlett Trumpton

Want to become a better cook in the kitchen? One great trick is to wear a cute apron and everyone will assume that you are a true expert. Of course, that won't improve your cooking skills but you can always work on them later. In all seriousness though, isn't it time that you looked your very best when you are cooking for your loved ones in the kitchen?

Protect Your Clothes

Think about it for a moment. If you add up all the time that you spend in your kitchen each year it probably adds up to at least several days. This is several days in your life that you can be looking your best with an attractive apron. Also, a cute apron is so easy to put on and take off and will put an end to stains on your good clothing.

The Perfect Gift

Today's cooking aprons come in a super wide assortment of colors and designs to choose from and they also can make the perfect gift. Its the type of gift that you don't have to worry about the person that you are giving it to already having one. Also, its a gift that you can be sure will be getting a lot of use, because they are so useful and functional.

Stain Resistant Fabric

Today's kitchen apron is quite different form the aprons of an earlier bygone era. This is because the cute apron of today is made from a much safer, flame and stain resistant fabric. This means that it will always look just as nice as the day that it arrived in the mail, even after extended use.

A Great Kitchen Decoration

Take a look around your kitchen and ask yourself how nice a super cute apron would look hanging from a peg on your kitchen wall. It can give your kitchen a special homey look and let anyone who may wander in that you do in fact know how to cook.

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Written by Scarlett Trumpten. Learn all the top info on Cute Aprons plus Cotton Aprons

Aprons made by Amy at Amy Knit's blog

Healthy Food On a Tight Budget

2008-07-22T18:13:00.001-04:00

By Stephanie Foster

One of the easiest traps to fall into when money is tight is to eat unhealthy foods. Healthy foods seem to be so expensive, after all. However, there are ways to save money while eating healthier foods. Yes, you can skip the ramen noodle section of your grocery store and still feed your family well.

What's the trick? Planning!

Whether you work at home or outside the home, your life can often be so hectic that it just seems simpler to order pizza or cook prepackaged convenience foods. However, these are typically much less healthy for you than foods you cook yourself.

Read the rest of this article...

How to Set up a Shopping Notebook (Deluxe Edition Article)

2008-07-22T17:45:00.000-04:00

Once you have a notebook specifically designated for shopping that is set up and ready to go, shopping will become an experience that will cost less time and money. Your shopping notebook will give you all the information you need to make well-informed decisions on whether what you are thinking of purchasing is truly a good deal or not.

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Cooking Large Quantities of Food on a Shoestring Budget

2008-07-22T17:42:00.000-04:00

A Large Family with specialized diets can do it, so can you!

By: Shiloah Baker

Cooking for a family and staying within a budget is tricky, but it can be done. We feed eight people, two who must eat a gluten free diet, and three who are allergic to milk. Every two weeks we spend $250 sometimes $300. That calculates to $16 per day and $2 per person per day. You could never eat like this eating out all the time.

How can this be done? The answer is to learn to cook as many things from scratch and rely as little as possible on pre-made things. Make large amounts for dinner and eat the left-overs for lunch. Breakfasts consist mostly of oatmeal, grits or eggs.

Read more...

Come, Come Ye Saints

2008-07-22T17:29:00.001-04:00

By William Clayton

Come, come ye Saints, no toil nor labor fear;
But with joy wend your way.
Though hard to you this journey may appear,
Grace shall be as your day....
All is well. All is well.

Living the Simple Life

2008-07-22T17:23:00.000-04:00

A year or so ago, my friend Dawn decided she wanted to try living like the pioneers for a week. She brought the idea up to her husband who wanted to know WHY? She explained her reasons of helping the family become more thankful for the life they live today and to learn new things. Her husband agreed to do it for a day. (Smile)

The pioneers lived a very simple life, bringing with them only what could fit on the wagon across the plains. I remember reading about a woman who brought a few panes of glass wrapped in cloth so that she could have a window in her new home.

The following article by Crystal Miller shares some practical ideas on how to live a simpler life. You don't have to be like the pioneers, although that may be fun for a short time, it is always a nice idea to live life a little slower paced and save money doing things yourself....

-Shiloah Baker
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Living a Simple Life

By Crystal Miller

Living the simple life is not always an easy task. In today's world of hustle, bustle and busy lives, the simple life can be hard to find. It seems that the home can often become a rest stop to refresh a moment and then move onto the next activity. Life can become too busy. Perhaps in your heart you would like life to be a little simpler. You would like time to just "stop and smell the roses" but can't
quite figure out how to get to that point. Another down side to a life that is too busy is that I believe it can rob us of some of the greater joys of being a homemaker. I believe that as we live this "life in the fast lane" we can
become discontent.

How does a busy life make us discontent you may ask? Well when life is too busy we find that that the home and family will suffer. Things in the home won't run as we would like them to. The house may be more chaotic then we would like, household tasks are not being attended to, meals may lack nutritional value, too much money is spent on convenience foods due to lack of time, laundry piles up, we may not be able to get to some of the projects we have been putting off, and so the list goes. So we end up feeling discontent because things are not as we would desire them to be. Our homes are not functioning as though we are in control of our domain.

So we set out to make some changes. We have an idea of what we might like our homes to be and begin to figure our ways to achieve this. As we desire to make changes we start looking for ways to make our lives easier. We think that easy and simple go hand-in-hand.

We have countless appliances that will do every task imaginable. We seek out the latest convenience foods so we can spend less time in the kitchen; we stream line so we can accomplish more and more each day. Not all of this is undesirable or without merit, but is this the answer to a simple life?

To me simplicity is not dinner from a box; it is a home cooked pot of soup and homemade bread. To me simplicity is not a cake mix, but a cake made from scratch with whole wheat flour I grind myself. To me simplicity is not permapress clothing but a little time at the ironing board to think, pray, and learn to be content with my role in life. To me simplicity is not always wanting more stuff, but learning how to enjoy and appreciate what I have. To me simplicity is not sticking a DVD in for the kids to keep them occupied; it is spending an afternoon in the garden working side-by-side with them. To me simplicity is not buying my milk from the grocery store, but milking my own goats. Simple living is not always easy living. Simple living, to me, is taking a slower walk in life and appreciating the things that go to making our lives as homemakers complete and fulfilling.

The satisfaction and joy we can get from so many homemaking tasks can easily be lost unless we intend in our heats to live a simple life. But a simple life can take more time. If we can't slow down enough to enjoy some of the basic fundamentals of homemaking then perhaps we are missing some of the very things that make a simple life an enjoyable life. A simple life is something one learns to love if it is a life that they desire to have.

Many simple living tasks have a multitude of blessing that go with them. When our dryer went out last summer we were learning how to enjoy the simple living task of hanging out laundry. We learned that sometimes working harder at a job has its own merits. I pointed out to my children that we saved money by not running the dryer and that in turn meant Dad's hard earned dollars could be put towards other
needs in the family, we also learned that putting clothes on the line at 6:30 in the morning is a perfect time to enjoy the quiet sounds of summer on our homestead. There is a peace in this that is hard to find in the middle of the day. We also learned that sheets that have been drying in the sun have the best smell!

The kitchen seems to be another room that abounds with simple living tasks. I think food and preparation of meals is something very important to a family. It is easy to be frustrated at the time spent in the kitchen, however it is an opportunity to look beyond the mundane and see the bigger goal being accomplished when you spend time preparing home cooked meals for your family. The health benefits alone that are received from home cooking can give us as homemakers much satisfaction. I love knowing that I am feeding my husband and children good quality foods that will
assist them in living a healthy life. There are also financial benefits from it. Every frugal meal that is cooked from scratch for my family means my husband does not
have to be working for boxes of Hamburger Helper or packages of Rice-a-Roni or any other costly packaged convenience food! These types of realizations can hopefully be positive reinforcements on the value of simple living. Most of all, when your family sits down to eat at the end of a long day who could deny the absolute joy of setting down to meal of homemade, made with love from the heart, food?

Living a simple life may require changes to the way we live. I don't have a busy life outside my home. I have it this way on purpose. I am happiest when my life is simple and serene. Well as serene as life gets with a houseful of children! ~smile~ I am the most content when I live a life in my home, doing the things that make my home run smooth and giving my family a quality of life that is fulfilling.

I am also passing on to my children the value of a simple life by my example. If I am always busy, busy I fear I may end up teaching them the message of discontentment. The message states that I can only be happy and satisfied if I am going and doing all the time. I have learned over the years that the two ways of life just do not mix. The dividing line for outside busyness and living a simple life at home will be drawn in a different place for each of us. I am not saying that all outside activity needs to stop, that would unrealistic. But rather when life has too much going on, it is impossible to live a simple life. I had to make very different choices in my life in order to achieve the goal of simple living. But I am more content and more satisfied today as a homemaker than every before.

I pray today that anyone desiring a simpler way of life will be able to achieve this and be able to find great joy in your life as a homemaker!

Copyright: Crystal Miller, 2005

About the Author:

Crystal Miller ( crystal@thefamilyhomestead.com ) is a mother of 8 children and enjoys her God given role as wife, homemaker and mother! She has a homemaking and country living web site called The Family Homestead
http://www.thefamilyhomestead.com and has a free monthly newsletter called Homestead Happenings. You will find sign up information on her website.

Eternal Wisdom Just for Mom (Deluxe Edition Article)

2008-07-22T16:50:00.000-04:00

By Kari Robinette

Having a child may just be one of the biggest changes you'll ever encounter. Until you're a parent, you can't imagine what it's going to be like, because according to the parents of my neighborhood, having a baby changes the way you think about everything. Here some moms share some of the wisdom they've gained since becoming a parent. This is great to post on the fridge.

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Family Emergency Preparedness

2008-05-08T19:30:00.000-04:00

By: Katie Johnson

Just as families in many homes must be prepared for sickness, fire and other unexpected occurrences, you must also be prepared for accidents and medical emergencies. Each emergency is very different and requires a unique response. You should begin learning about these emergencies so that you are better prepared to react and protect your family. Family emergency preparedness is an important issue in the home. The following passage provides basic information you need to keep about your family's health record so that you can be prepared to handle medical situations and other threats during an emergency.

The most important step to start with in preparation is planning. Planning ahead of time is very critical because most of the time, disaster strikes when least expected. Below are a few things you can do to prepare.

The key is discussing with your family members and looking at the types of emergencies most likely to happen in your family and what role each member in the family can play. Planning how you will contact each other when not together is especially crucial. A disaster may strike when some family members are away at the time.

Equally important in planning is to make sure that you keep some needed supplies ready for emergencies; first aid supplies, prescription medications, sanitary supplies and special items for family members with special needs.
Also, learning more about the types of emergencies and how your family's medical condition may be affected is very important. Read up on key terms such as burns, food poisoning, wounds, cuts and other types of injuries. You can find this information at your local library, health center, on the internet and by watching health related TV programs.

Getting involved in community planning efforts can also be very helpful, especially in family related emergency seminars. In addition, always be alert during an emergency by using resources with emergence messages and important safety instructions from government authorities or other approved authorities.

It is also very important that you include a picture id of each family member on their health records file. You may also want to provide information about current medications, allergies, age and weight of children in an easily accessible place somewhere in your home. Training a family member in CPR and First Aid has also proved to be helpful.

Click here to visit the Health Care Information Guide Online for informative articles about health. UK readers can visit the UK Online Hospitals Directory for health articles, hospitals information and more. Copyright 2007. Katie Johnson

"Too Much Stuff" Syndrome or How Decorating and Organizing Can Help Your Sanity

2008-05-08T17:18:00.000-04:00

By: Lisa DeClue

This area of home life is different from others in that it involves all the senses and to that degree it is successful, engendering varying emotions. Decorating isn't really a hobby, nor is it merely an activity; it's a driving force of many people to live in comfortable and pleasing surroundings while they regenerate from a stressful world.

Yet, decorating by itself is not nearly as completely satisfying as having an organized home that is rich in beautiful detail. Decorating and organizing go hand-in-hand, like a one-two punch of home completion.

In an effort to motivate you to action, use these suggestions to help you on your way to an organized home this season.

Paper Clutter

1. If you're like my dear Mother and you still have newspapers from 1978 because you haven't read them all: Don't walk, RUN to the sanitation department and rent an industrial sized dumpster to leave in your driveway for a week.

2. I'm giving you permission to touch your incoming mail and papers more than once - only if the second "touching" is on the way to the dumpster.

3. You know that pile of "things to file" that keeps growing? Guess what - dump that too. You can always print off another copy or send away for the info. over the Internet. (This, coming from the daughter of a paper monster...)

Clothing

Twice a year, my mom would make me try on clothes for the upcoming season. She would invariably choose cold mornings to try on summer things and the hottest day on record to slip into woolens and flannels... (If your kids give you flack for trying on clothes in the comfort of air conditioning, you may use this as your own example.) If you haven't worn something in the time it took you to have your second child, it's probably not worth hanging on to (unless, of course, the dumpster is full).

Use a great tip I just discovered: Pick three nights a week to try on 5 items in your closet, then go to your dressers and do the same thing. At this rate, the average American woman should be able to go through all her clothes in about 3 years, 9 months and 14 days. No need to worry, it'll be a different season then!

Kids' Toys

1. You could try to "limit" the number of toys they play with each month and cycle them to and from the garage so your little ones get variety.

2. That takes too much effort. I just threatened my boys if they left toys out on their floor at bedtime, they would be in the dumpster the next day (the toys, silly!). Do this twice, and you'll have this hot spot under control.

I hope these points have given you some new ways to look at the problem of clutter and refreshing methods to deal with them. Given the fun you'll have with that dumpster, you might want to consider renting a second one for the hubby's stuff.

Article by:

Lisa DeClue is a WAHM and really does love her Mother. She owns Decorating with HGPgal, a website that incorporates interior and garden/patio decorating resources, articles, tips and a monthly newsletter in addition to a unique business opportunity. Subscribe to the newsletter at HGPgal.com/newsletter.html and be entered into the monthly prize drawing. Don't forget to check out the Q&A on the DecoForum! "Making A Difference One Person & One Home At A Time"™

The Best Flowers For Spring

2008-02-16T17:58:00.000-05:00

By: Jennifer Houck

After a long, cold winter, you are probably anxious for the first signs of spring. Springtime automatically brings thoughts of flowers. Choosing the best flowers for spring can be difficult and it is often confusing. Perhaps the most effective way to ensure spring flowers that bloom each year is to plant bulbs in the fall to mid-winter. There are of course flowering plants that you can purchase from your local nursery, but you will want to make sure any chance of freezing weather has passed before planting and in many areas of the country, spring does not arrive until late in the season and by that time you will want to plants flowers in anticipation of summer. You always have the option of purchasing bulbs that have been grown in pots over the winter and are in stock in most garden centers beginning in the late winter months. Here are a few choices of flowering plants that are suitable to plant now and will produce early spring flower:

Winter Aconite, or Eranthis hyemalis, will give you yellow flowers approximately three inches in height and resemble common buttercups. These particular bulbs may begin to flower as early as January if you live in a warm area and you will get the best results if you plant them in masses as they grow low to the ground.

Glory Of The Snow, or Chionodoxa luciliare, produce flowers that are bright blue with a white center. The plants will grow between six and ten inches tall, making this particular plant very handy for walkways, borders, and rock gardens. You may also be able to find white/pink varieties depending on the area in which you live

Spring Snowflake, or leucojum vernum, give you bell-shaped flowers that droop from the green part of the plant. These plants will be six to twelve inches in height and are white in color with small green spots on the ends of the petals. You will get the best results if you plant them in clumps and you can expect to see blooms in late February to early March. As with any other springtime bulb, they are best planted in the fall but you can plant in the mid to late winter if you purchase potted bulbs that have already begun the growing cycle.

Netted Iris, or iris reticulate, are wonderfully scented and are most commonly purple in color, although you can also find light blue and white irises in many areas. Irises are one of the earliest blooming plants and you can expect a beautiful display of flowers in early March. As with any other type of bulb, after several growing seasons you will have to thin the bulbs from time to time, as they tend to reproduce rapidly and could actually begin to stunt the growth of the plants due to over-crowding.

Article by:
Jennifer Houck is the owner of www.bestflowergrowers.com , the Best Flower resource for learning how to grow your flowers. Learn what foods to feed, when to plant flowers and how to design a flower garden.

Refreshing Your 72 Hour Kit (Deluxe Edition Article)

2008-02-16T17:55:00.000-05:00

By Valerie Steadman

There is a list a mile long when it comes to maintaining a home and raising a family. Some things are easy to remember, while others are forgotten for years. Many of us remember to toss old food from the fridge, empty the garbage, even rotate our food storage. With food storage, we know that food expires and will lose it's quality, so we use the oldest items first, and store new food storage in the back. Do we do the same with our 72 hour kits?

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A Garden Party

2008-02-16T17:53:00.000-05:00

By: Chaele McMillan

Here are a few ways to save time and money and have a beautiful yard.

1) Share Plants and Flowers

I use to joke to my husband about don't let his Grandma see my back yard because she would be back there digging in my flower beds but the truth is people that love plants..love to share. It beats buying flowers from the Nursery or Wal-Mart that may not last very long. I have a flowerbed that came from my Grandparents house and I love to see them bloom. It reminds me of the walks I had with my Grandmother. Set up a plant exchange and have a great "Garden Party".

2) Flowers will make your day.
Plant a cutting flower bed near your house. Every morning while you are drinking your coffee go out and cut a few fresh flowers. I love to use dahlias and roses for my cut flowers.

3) Make an Herb Garden.
Enjoy fresh herbs and the pleasure of watching them grow. I love to plant basil, chives, mint, parsley, thyme and bay.
Once your herbs are dried, crumble them up and store them in an air tight jar. You can also experiment with different herb mixtures and it makes a great gift!

4) Meadow Garden
This takes work but it is beautiful. Stop mowing the yard and plant a meadow. Buy mixed wildflower seeds. Select an area and plant the maintenance free meadow (Once it begins to grow) It takes work to establish it but it is VERY beautiful once it grows! No more mowing.

5) Kid Garden
I love spending time with my kids planting flowers and seeds. It teaches them how to plant, water and care for nature. We plant seeds in the spring and enjoy the Kids Garden throughout the summer.

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Gardening is a great way to work off stress. Have fun and schedule a "Garden Party".
Article by:
Chaele McMillan is a work at home mom. She owns Mom State University (www.momstateuniversity.com) and is the Outreach Manager for (www.SunriseRetreats.com)

Bringing Thanksgiving Day Together (Deluxe Edition)

2008-02-16T16:08:00.000-05:00

By Tiana Gray

Thanksgiving- The only time of the year my family wants to see each other, other than Christmas. These words brought to my mind past memories of disasters! Which starts long before Thanksgiving Day approaches and it is the same thing year after year. Where will Thanksgiving be, who will pick up so and so, who will do the turkey, who is invited and who is not. Just as a child who's parents have divorced, when you get married, you are pulled by which family you will celebrate with and then it is turned into which family do you love more. When Thanksgiving Day actually comes, the thermostat goes up and it never ends, and people start to find reasons to get offended. There is that sight of undercooked frozen turkey being placed into a microwave. The felt tension as family members judge and criticize how it is to be cooked.

Click to finish reading. If you are not a Deluxe Edition member join today!

Thanksgiving: Creating New Traditions for Your Family

2008-02-16T16:07:00.000-05:00

Thanksgiving is a great holiday! The pressure of Christmas has not yet arrived, and most of us get holiday time off. We eat a lot of food, take naps, watch sports, and hang out with family. Of course, Thanksgiving has meaning in the historical sense; however, there are many ways to add more personal, family meaning to the holiday, by creating new traditions. Having traditions, in general, will bring your family closer and add to the enjoyment of Thanksgiving. Create one specifically for your family or try one of the following great ideas!

My daughters' classroom made Thanksgiving Trees one year, and it's great to adapt to your family. Collect semi large fall leaves, enough for 3 per person. Seal them with clear contact paper and cut around the edges. Grab a bunch of Sharpie pens and pass them out to everyone. Give each person a leaf and have them write one thing they are grateful for this year, and add the date. Choose a large piece of poster board and draw a tree without leaves. Add the leaves your family made to the tree. Each person can share what they are most grateful for with everyone. Each year, take down the previous years' leaves and add your new ones. It's interesting, as well, to look back to what each person wrote last year in comparison to this year!

Another way for families to share is by playing the corn game. Each person at the table gets two pieces of corn kernels next to their dinner plate. After dinner, place a bowl in the middle of the table. Start by having someone place one kernel in the bowl and share something they are thankful for and why. Go around the table until everyone at the table has used their corn. When the bowl is full, use this time to share some Thanksgiving history. Share the story with your family of the Native Americans teaching us about corn, now an American staple.

How about a food tradition? Go ahead and have your traditional Thanksgiving dinner, but each year, add at least one new dish to the menu. After dinner, the family gets to vote whether it stays or goes. This can be taken one step farther by creating a family cookbook with all the recipes. The cookbook can then make a great Christmas stocking stuffer for the rest of your family and friends that you didn't get to be with you this year!

Thanksgiving is a time when we are all thankful for what we have, but it should remind us that many people truly don't have much to be thankful about. Giving is a great tradition to start in your family, considering it's half of the word Thanksgiving! Consider donating to food pantries. Get your children involved by choosing and packing the food in boxes. Take them with you to the pantry or donation center so they can see the difference they can make. It's a great time to be reminded of the importance of sharing the bounty with those having tough times.

American families are very busy, we work so much more these days, and children seem to be constantly on the go. Thanksgiving is a time to put all that aside and remind ourselves that family, friends and traditions keep us grounded. They remind us who we are. Take some time this year to create new traditions and have a memorable Thanksgiving!

7 Tips for Thrifty Living

2008-02-16T15:39:00.000-05:00

By Christine Hohlbaum

It is no secret that life is more expensive today than when our parents were growing up. How can we offset soaring prices without sacrificing quality of life? Here are a few tips to help you save more:

1.) It is no surprise that credit cards represent a trap for many people. Incentives such as "earning" frequent flyer miles or free internet access are only "free" if you can pay off the balance every month. Otherwise, you end up on the losing end of the stick, paying interest rates in the double digits. It makes more sense to save for that ticket to visit the Carribean or your relatives than to rack up frequent flyer miles on a card you can never pay off. Tip: Only use credit cards if you know you can pay off the balance at the end of the month.

2.) Electricity doesn't come cheap. Heat-producing appliances such as dryers and refrigerators burn up enormous amounts of energy. Tip: Consider purchasing an energy saving appliance. Turn down the refrigerator in the cooler months. Hang your wash outside instead of using the dryer. It will save you money, and the clothes smell fresh!

3.) It is tempting to spend a lot of money on the weekends "because you deserve it." That may be true, but you may not be able to afford it, too. Tip: Instead of that expensive weekend at an amusement park or that ski trip that costs a bundle, take a bike ride with your kids or check out a new park to go sledding. You'll get some exercise and needed fresh air while creating memories with the kids.

4.) Children usually like to draw. If your little Picasso is eating up all of your expensive computer printer paper, think about this. Tip: Consider using paper bags or recycled office paper for some of their artwork. They work fine for collages, and they are free. An added plus? You'll reduce that pile of bags in the pantry that keeps growing, and you'll save several trees.

5.) Spending time away from the kids is essential, but babysitters can be expensive. Tip: Consider swapping babysitting with a neighbor, at least some of the time. It will reduce the cost of going out with your partner, and you'll benefit from a night on the town for less.

6.) Good picture frames can be very pricey. Tip: Purchase one stable picture frame for the kids' annual school photos. Keep the old photos behind the frame to compare prior years' pictures. An added benefit? You have all of the school pictures in one place!

7.) Entertainment need not be expensive. Tip: Rent a video instead of attending a movie in a theater. Invite your friends and have a potluck supper. Now you've multiplied the fun without the extra cost of parking, movie tickets, and refreshments!

Life can be beautiful. It doesn't have to be expensive.

____________________________________________

Christine Louise Hohlbaum, American author of Diary of a Mother: Parenting Stories and Other Stuff, is a freelance writer living near Munich, Germany with her husband and two kids. She holds a B.A. in Political Science from Smith College and an M.A. in International Relations, German and English Literature from the University of Constance, Germany. When she is not leading a toddler playgroup or writing, she likes to dance, sing with her kids, and generally frolic.

Visit her web site at: Diary of a Mother

Halloween Decor and Recipes (Deluxe Edition)

2008-02-16T15:34:00.000-05:00

By Lori Nawyn

Ever since our children were young, Halloween at our house has been a grand event. My kids love to scare Trick-or-Treaters, and even my husband and some of the neighbors get into the act. With a big "back stage crew" there's lots of fun to have and lots of mouths to feed. Here are a few quick and easy tips for fast decorating with stuff you've got around the house, plus recipes to feed even the pickiest of ghouls!

Click to finish reading. If you are not a Deluxe Edition member join today!

Homemaking Cottage Mission Statement

2008-02-16T15:15:00.001-05:00

Our purpose is to mentor, help, inspire, teach and uplift all women in fulfilling their roles as homemakers and mothers to their fullest capacity. We hope that by sharing our stories, thoughts, articles and ideas that we will touch and mentor women everywhere.

Our goal is to assist women at all stages of knowledge, experience and seasons of life. Whether young or old the responsibilities we have in our homes will always be great.

We Believe:

We believe the quote, '... the hand that rocks the cradle is the hand that rules the world' by William Ross Wallace to be as true today as it was in the beginning....

Read the rest of our Mission Statement

Quote

2008-02-16T15:03:00.001-05:00

Quote:

"Good cooks are born, not made, they say,

The saying's most untrue

Hard trying and prime recipes

Will make good cooks of you."

Menu Planning 101

2008-02-16T15:01:00.000-05:00

Looking for a great way to save time and money each month, menu planning is one of the best ways for people either on a tight budget or with tight time constraints to make sure that they and their families are eating healthy and right. Here are some basic tips on how to plan a weekly menu and the benefits of doing so.

Create a Budget

One of the many things that fiscally responsible families do is create a budget for monthly expenses. Just as you would calculate the cost of running a house, paying for your children's school or transportation costs, you should also consider how much money to spend on food each week or month.

Believe it or not, many shoppers don't even know exactly how much they spend on food. In addition, many families tend to eat out at least a couple of times per week. If you ever tried to figure out the cost of eating out 8 times per month for a family of four, it would probably give you sticker shock. By creating a budget, you can easily calculate your food expenses for the month or even break it down weekly, giving you an idea on how much to spend on a weekly menu for you and your family.

Creating a Menu

Now that you have your budget and know exactly how much you can spend for food each month, your next step should be figuring out which types of meals would be best for your family. Most families tend to start out menu planning with only fresh and healthier food choices, only to find out a couple of weeks later that they dread eating at home and rush out to purchase fast food or to eat out at the many casual dining establishments. One thing to consider is to plan a menu that is for the most part healthy, but includes foods that each member of your family enjoys ( in moderation of course). By making sure that there are foods that everyone enjoys, it will entice each member of the family to stay home for meals.

Menu planning is a great way for the entire family to lose weight together or to reduce certain types of foods in their diets. For instance, many families find that they could all stand to lose a few pounds; menu planning can help with the process. By creating a menu that is low in calories, fats, carbs, etc (depending on your diet of choice), you and your family can lose weight together usually increasing the success of all those involved.

For families that have a history of certain types of illnesses like heart disease or diabetes, menu planning is essential to good, long term health. By getting into the practice of eating certain types of foods and shying away from others, you can improve your health and form strong foundations for younger children who hopefully will follow the same eating patterns as they age.

Dine Without Whine - Your #1 Source For Family Friendly Meal Planning

Meet Valerie Steadman

2008-02-16T14:57:00.000-05:00

I'm Valerie Steadman! I've been a fan of the Homemaking Cottage for years, and I can't believe I'll be writing articles for this great website. I hope that my articles prove to be of the same calibre you've come to expect. I am a stay-at-home mother of two, and wife to my dear husband Nate. I was born in Logan, Utah. I was raised in Logan. I met and dated my usband in Logan. We married in the Logan Temple. I have had both of my daughters, Alycia and Hailey, in the Logan Hospital. I just may take my last breath in Logan, Utah.

I am an amateur photographer. I'm also learning how to bottle fruit, and love canning jam! I love things with history, and have a great time fixing up the 95 year old house we call home.

Organization skills are a topic of great interest to me because we definitely lack in storage space in an old house! I'm a big fan of home cooking, and trying new recipes is fun. I'm Mexican-American, and I plan to bring a little spice to the recipe department. Scrapbooking, clever recycling, and decorating are all passions of mine. I was married in October, and Halloween is one of my favorite holidays. The harvest, raking leaves, warm cider and soup, and fond memories from the past summer just make fall my favorite season of all.

But, most of all, I take great pleasure in serving as a homemaker to my family. Caring for their emotional and physical health is a treasured task. The great Aristotle put it nicely. "We are what we repeatedly do. Excellence, then, is not an act, but a habit."

Homemaking Cottage Online Newsletter Archive: recipes, articles, crafts

Setting Up Your Home to Slow Down Your Life

Coming Home: Homemaking Cottage Deluxe

Tomato and Corn Salad

How to Make Homemade Italian Pizza and Ice Cream with Kids

Knowledge is Power...and Free!

Pearls and Gems of Homemaking Ideas

In the free magazine edition of the Homemaking-Cottage we’re featuring:

The Deluxe Edition is our Premier Online Home and Garden magazine.

Summer Escape at the Homemaking-Cottage

In the free magazine edition of the Homemaking-Cottage we’re featuring:

For all the fitness buffs and hot mamas working on weight loss, we have articles for you too:

In the Deals that are Nifty Column we're featuring the following articles:

The Deluxe Edition is our Premier Online Home and Garden magazine.

Supporting Dad Creates Harmony in the Home

June's Favorite Things

For my Dad: Father's Day Surprises Kids can Handle

Delighting in Mothers: Ribbon Crafts, Remembering You and More

Gourmet Double Chocolate Muffins

The Stories of the Power of Influential Homemakers

Become a Runner

Online Home and Garden Magazine

Laundry Room Organization

One Homemaker's Savings: Add it All Up

Le Laundress: Taking some Tips from the French

Inspiration and Articles to Support the Ultimate Career: Homemaking

Economy Home Decor

Two Challenges for the Family Home

When Letting Go Can Lead to a Better Home

Decorating Your Home with Hydrangeas

Elegant Cork Board Organizer

The 25 Most Influential Homemakers: A Call to Nomination

Free ebook: A Homemakers Guide to a Better Home

Want to be the ultimate mother, wife, homemaker?

January 19, 2010 Homemaking Newsletter: Femininity

Inspiration and Ideas for Collecting Items for Tea Parties (Deluxe Edition Article)

Care and Keeping of Lingerie

Dress The Way You Are Pretty Women

Shabby Chic Chalkboard from a Thrift Store Frame (Deluxe Edition Preview)

Cinnamon & Sugar Fruit Dip

The Values of Being Happy and Grateful for What You Have

Enhance Your Home With Creative Ideas from The Homemaking Cottage Deluxe Edition

Provide Routine and Structure for Your Children with a Daily Home Schedule

Healthy Breakfast Tips for Kids

Oatmeal Recipes: Simple & Quick Breakfast Ideas

June 22, 2009 Homemaking Cottage Newsletter

Pretty in Pink Party Hat (Deluxe Edition Article)

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Work at Home Moms Make the Happiest Homemakers

Featured Article in The Deluxe Edition

Don't Waste Time or Space: Organize Your Closet

The Cost of Disorganization...Can You Afford it?

Featured Article in The Deluxe Edition

Thanksgiving Holiday Decorating Tips

Do Ahead Tips for Thanksgiving

Addicted to Vintage Aprons

Look at Aprons for Children

Make a Kid's Towel Apron (Deluxe Edition Article)

Cute Aprons are the Latest Must Have Kitchen Fashion Accessory

Healthy Food On a Tight Budget

How to Set up a Shopping Notebook (Deluxe Edition Article)

Cooking Large Quantities of Food on a Shoestring Budget

Come, Come Ye Saints

Living the Simple Life

Eternal Wisdom Just for Mom (Deluxe Edition Article)

Family Emergency Preparedness

"Too Much Stuff" Syndrome or How Decorating and Organizing Can Help Your Sanity

The Best Flowers For Spring

Refreshing Your 72 Hour Kit (Deluxe Edition Article)

A Garden Party

Bringing Thanksgiving Day Together (Deluxe Edition)

Thanksgiving: Creating New Traditions for Your Family

7 Tips for Thrifty Living

Halloween Decor and Recipes (Deluxe Edition)

Homemaking Cottage Mission Statement

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Menu Planning 101

Meet Valerie Steadman