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Katie T’s Cottage Home Fun Fact #29

Fun fact time! This is a new section I’m including on my blog posts so my readers can get to know me on a personal level!

So, for my 29th fun fact, I want to share that I am going camping this weekend! 

Every year, my family has a campout at my parent’s house. Between swimming in the lake across the street, eating good food, and seeing family and friends! We always have a great time!

So now, let’s jump into how to use a lemon for zero waste in the kitchen!

Lemon Juice for Baking and Cooking

There are so many recipes that call for lemon juice! Besides the traditional lemon blueberry muffins, like the ones I made, there are countless recipes to add lemon juice to!

This has everything to do with food science. Adding lemon, an acidic food, enhances the flavors of the dish. 

This is true for cooking with fish, condiments such as mayo, or tenderizing meats such as chicken. Building on that, adding lemon juice to a marinade is a great way to tenderize meat.

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Lemon juice, like vinegar, is an acid that helps break down the meat protein fibers. Just be mindful of the other ingredients you mix with the marinade.

If it’s dairy-based, adding an acid will curdle the cream. 

Another thing to keep in mind if you are water bath canning is that lemon juice is often used in recipes to prevent bacterial growth that causes botulism.

This is because water bath (vs. pressure canning) requires a specific pH to do it safely. Also note that in this case, it is recommended to use bottled lemon juice from the store.

Each bottle has a standard acidity level, and when it comes to canning, you want to be precise to be sure you aren’t allowing the food to grow any unwanted bacteria.

Lemon Simple Syrup

The second thing you can do with lemon peels for zero waste in the kitchen is to boil them in water and sugar to make simple syrup!

This can be stored in the refrigerator or frozen to make drinks down the road.

I enjoy adding simple syrup to my cocktails, but you can also make regular lemonade. 

As far as a recipe goes, all you need is:

• 1 cup sugar
• 1 cup of water
• About 3-4 lemon peels cut into small pieces

Bring all ingredients to a boil and let it simmer on medium-low heat for about 5 minutes. Remove from heat and let it steep for an additional 30 min.

Once steeping is complete, you can strain the liquid from the peels. But don’t throw them away (see next section for how to use them!!) 

I’ve also used this process to make orange and lavender simple syrup (separately, of course).

So if you feel like experimenting, think 1 part water and 1 part sugar and add the produce of choice. Simmer, then let steep. And bam, you have a simple syrup!!

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Lemon Peel Candies

Next up on using lemons for zero waste in the kitchen is candy the peels! Yes, that’s right, you heard me! And this is the next step after making the simple syrup.

They taste like gummy worms if you ask me!

Instructions are as follows.

Once you’ve removed the peels from the liquid, set aside to dry. You may need to take a napkin and pat it. The big part here is to make sure they are dry so the sugar doesn’t get them soggy.

So, once the peels are dry, add them to a bowl of sugar and toss them around with a fork. Once completely coated with sugar, set aside.

You have just made yourself lemon peel candies! 

A couple of things to note here. Before making the simple syrup, try to cut off the white parts of the peel.

It doesn’t make a huge difference in taste but does leave a slightly bitter taste in the gummies. If you skip this step, don’t worry. I have done so with oranges, and I find it doesn’t make a huge difference.

Also, when you coat the peels with sugar, I’d let them sit out for a bit.

If the peels don’t get soggy by the sugar, then you must be a natural because I can’t seem to get mine to dry enough the first time around.

The solution, if this happens to you, is to dry your lemon peels again and repeat the process. 

Freshly Squeezed Lemonade

Next up on how to use lemons for zero waste in the kitchen is to freshly squeeze the lemons to make lemonade! 

I find the most efficient way to make lemonade is to put about half a peeled lemon with about 4 cups of water in a blender (add some other fruit, like strawberries, at this time if you want to add flavor). 

Once completely blended, strain it into a pitcher using a cheesecloth. I usually place my cheesecloth over a small strainer and pour the liquid.

Once it’s poured, I pick up the cheesecloth by the edges and apply pressure to separate the liquid from the pulp. 

At this point, you can add sugar and additional water to match your liking. I’ve also added honey as a sugar replacement for a more nutritious drink! 

The nice thing about adding strawberries to the lemonade is it’s a natural sweetener. Plus, the frothy top makes the drink taste fresh!

Lemon Zest

The fifth use of lemons for zero waste in the kitchen is to use it for lemon zest! 

This is perfect to top dishes with, like my blueberry muffins. You can also add them to salad dressings or cooked dishes. 

I’ve also added lemon zest to homemade soap bars before. There are conflicting opinions due to the nature of the fruit zest and spoiling the soap. I didn’t seem to have a problem when I did it, however, if you’re making soap and it’s hot and humid weather, I can see how that may increase the chances of the soap going bad.

I plan on making a soap post soon and will update this section with a link.

In it, I’ll experiment and see if I can dehydrate the zest to create a better alternative. In the meantime, check out my post on the 7 items to include in your vanity bathroom tray. In it I make a homemade liquid soap!

Lemon Peel Cleaner

The 6th use of lemons for zero waste in the kitchen is to make a cleaner with them! This is such a simple process!

All you need is vinegar, water, and lemon peels!

I don’t like my vinegar solution to smell like vinegar (I know it sounds silly), so I mixed 1 part water and 1 part vinegar with the lemon peels and let it sit for a couple of weeks. After it sat, I strained the lemon peels from the liquid and topped it with more water. 

Just don’t do what I did and stuff the lemon peels in a glass bottle like this! I then had to remove the peels from the bottle, which was a slight pain. 

So, if you do it, put it in a bottle that you can easily strain the water out of after. 

And also, as promised, here is a link to a free vinegar solution label! I printed mine on waterproof adhesive paper. It still looks good a couple of years later! 

Dried Lemon Peels and Powder

The last use of lemons for zero waste in the kitchen is to dry them for later use! 

I dehydrated the remaining parts of my strawberry lemonade that I made earlier and then blended it to make a powder. I wanted to see if I could reconstitute it to make a lemonade powder, and let’s just say that it did not taste well at all! 

In hindsight, it makes sense. You remove the pulp, dry it to make a powder, only to reconstitute it in water, and now you have pulp water.

Whomp.

But I’m not going to give up on it! I’m thinking I can add it to vanilla ice cream, but I’d love to hear your thoughts on what I should test it with! Drop it in the comments!

But, you can dehydrate lemon peels and put them in hot water to make lemon tea! 

Lately, I’ve been making lemon lavender tea with a latte twist. All you need is:

• Dried lemon peels
• Dried lavender buds
• 1 tsp of burdock root
• Splash of vanilla extract
• 1 tsp of honey
• About a ¼ cup of milk

Let the lemon, lavender, and burdock roots steep in hot water. Then add the milk, vanilla, and honey and blend it with an immersion blender until the milk has become frothy (definitely do this step in a larger container so you don’t spill everywhere).

Then pour the tea into your mug, and voila! You have a beautifully crafted lemon lavender tea with a latte twist! Top with lavender buds as seen fit.

Zero Waste in the Kitchen: 7 Clever Ways to Use Extra Lemons for Sustainable Living

There you have it! The 7 uses of lemons for zero waste in the kitchen! I hope you’ve enjoyed this post! Don’t forget to comment below and share this post with others! 

Love,

Katie

The post Zero Waste in the Kitchen: 7 Clever Ways to Use Extra Lemons for Sustainable Living first appeared on Katie T's Home.

This post may contain affiliate links, which means I’ll receive a small commission if you purchase through my links, at no extra cost to you. Please read the full disclosure for more information.

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I also ask that you please leave your thoughts in the comment section below. I’m always trying to produce helpful content for my readers, and without knowing what you think, it’s hard to know what you find helpful/not helpful. So please leave your thoughts below!!  

Katie T’s Cottage Home Fun Fact #27

Fun fact time! This is a new section I’m including on my blog posts so my readers can get to know me on a personal level!

So, for my 27th fun fact, I want to share that I LOVE the beach! I’m so excited that the weather is finally warm enough to go to the ocean.

I’m thankful that I live in MA, so there are plenty of beaches to go to, that are relatively close.

If you live in the area, do you have any beach recommendations? Drop it in the comments, I’d love to hear it!!

So now, let’s jump into the 7 paint and sip ideas!

Drink of Choice: Tea vs. Wine

Okay, so obviously, if it’s tea party inspired, it would imply there was tea. I get it. However, we did not have tea, but we did have wine!

The determining factor in choosing the best option is knowing the preferences of the ladies you are serving it for.

And hey, who’s to say you can’t have both, right?!?! Just keep in mind the space, which I will discuss in more depth in the next section.

But for me, space was limited. So, I decided that one would be better than having both.

But, this has inspired me for the next time I host a lady’s night. Lately, I’ve been getting into making my own tea (vs. the premade packets you traditionally buy at the store).

I thought it would be so cool to have a tea party with multiple ingredients to make tea, and it can be a make-it-your-own-styled tea. Kind of like a tea-inspired buffet. I feel like that would be SO cool!!

Tea Party Styled Food

Hosting paint nights is super fun and exciting because it puts a spin on the traditional ladies’ night. Plus, something is appetizing about having a meal made of finger food.

This leads me to my next point for hosting a ladies’ paint night. And, that would be to have tea party-styled food!

My menu consisted of cucumber sandwiches, banana chocolate chip muffins, cheese and crackers, jalapeno cheese rolls, and for the piece de resistance, a fruit tart for dessert!

Also, as a bonus for those who want to impress your guests, I have a FREE digital downloadable that you can edit and add your menu to the blank template!

I did not have this for my paint and sip but, as I’m putting this post together, I figured this would be an excellent addition to the tablescape The image below is an example of what it would look like with text. You can handwrite on it as well!

Click here for the download and, make sure you check out my online storefront for additional details on how to download and edit the templates!

Note: click on an actual product to see the instructions underneath the listing.

Another thing to keep in mind, as mentioned above, is the space on the table. My table was just under 6’x3′. We had just enough room for all 4 ladies, food, and painting essentials.

I could have taken a little more space, but the flip side to that argument would be that the paint supplies and food wouldn’t have been in arms reach, so keep that in mind as well.

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Rustic Cottage Dishware

For the 3rd tip out of the 7 paint and sip ideas for hosting a tea party-inspired ladies’ night, I’d recommend having rustic cottage dishware!

Now, some of you may ask, why cottage dinnerware vs any other type of style? And the answer is very simple. Literally speaking.

The cottage style is simple. It has enough textures and design elements to showcase the space, but it’s not overpowering.

I’d also argue that cottage style is an overlap of other trendy styles. These styles include modern, farmhouse, boho, and even traditional.

Modern cottage styles are the “one size fits all” in the design world. At least, in my personal opinion.

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And what better way to showcase your modern cottage dishes than to utilize them during your paint night?!?! I mean, when you think about it, what’s the point of having nice plates and dishes if you never get to use them??

Floral Napkins and Elegant Plates

Next up in the 7 paint and sip ideas is to have floral napkins and elegant plates.

I found these napkins at Marshall’s and ordered these plates years ago when I had my small Covid wedding. I saved the extra plates from the wedding for the perfect opportunity. And, this paint and sip was it!

Having a feminine touch to the table setting showcases the idea that this is a lady’s night.

So perhaps you don’t go with those specific napkins and plates. There are additional items you can add to capture the idea that this is a lady’s night and give it a feminine touch.

For example, you could add flowers or floral arrangements on the table. Or have feminine decorations surrounding the table. Another option would be to ask your ladies to dress up, but keep in mind that you’re painting, so this may not be the best setting for that.

Paint Essentials

Next up in the 7 paint and sip ideas for hosting a lady’s night is to have the right paint essentials!

I went to school for art, so over the years, I’ve accumulated a LOT of art supplies. But the basics for an event like this would be:

• Canvas
• Easel
• White and Primary Colors Minimally (You can always mix the primary colors to get any other color), but black is always nice to have on hand, too.
• Paint Brushes and disposable cups with water to wash them
• Disposable Paper Palette

Now, on a side note on the disposable paper palette. I was introduced to these when I went to college. I was used to the small or reusable plastic palettes from high school. So, at first, I didn’t think I was going to like these, but they are great for two main reasons!

One, you can throw it away. I always hated cleaning the reusable palettes because it was messy. And unless you have a slop sink, washing paint down a regular sink is never a good idea.

The other pro to these paper palettes is that it’s easier to mix paint. Due to its flat nature, it’s easier to mix a new shade because it lends itself to having an open space (vs. the reusable pallets with the small divots in them).

Set the Tone with Lighting

Next up in the 7 paint and sip ideas is having the proper lighting! This is huge for two main reasons.

One: you can’t paint if you can’t see what you’re doing.

Two: it sets the tone.

If you’re looking for an ambiance vibe, try opting for candles or string lights, especially if you are outside.

Just keep in mind an open flame on a table that may already be crowded.

For my situation, having candles would have been an added risk with the amount of reaching over to get food or a different paint color. However, if you’re set up with more room, then have at it!!

Good Company

Last but not least, having good company is SOO important!

I enjoyed this painting night because I got to do it with my friends. It’s always a good time to see them.

I know this point is kind of a no-brainer, but it holds so much weight, so I thought it was worthy of mentioning.

You cannot replace good friends, so be sure to make them feel at home, no matter what type of evening you’re hosting

7 Paint and Sip Ideas for Hosting Ladies’ Night: Tea Party Table Inspo

So that’s a wrap! I hope you’ve gotten some inspiration on how to host a lady’s paint night! Please, please, please leave your thoughts in the comments! I enjoy creating content for all of you to read, but it’s hard to know what you’d like to see if I don’t hear from any of you! So what are you waiting for?!?! Get planning your paint and sip!

With Much Love,

Katie

The post 7 Paint and Sip Ideas for Hosting Ladies’ Night: Tea Party Table Inspo first appeared on Katie T's Home.

Get the Right Tools for the Job

First, you need to ensure you’ve got the right tools for the job. While equipment may vary depending on your yard and what you plan on cleaning up, the basic tools you’ll need for raking, pruning, and trimming include:

• Sturdy rake
• Durable gardening gloves
• Sharp pruners
• Quality shovel
• Wheelbarrow or garden waste bags

For more intensive tramming and cleanup tasks, you may need more heavy-duty equipment like an electric handheld chainsaw.

Clear Away Winter’s Debris

Start by clearing away everything that winter has left behind. Gather fallen branches, dead leaves, and stray debris around your yard. For areas with heavy snowfall, you might also notice winter compaction damage, such as flattened plants or matted grass that you should lift.

Tidying up these areas makes your outdoor space look clean and prevents pests and diseases from spreading to your lawn and plants. You may also want to consider renting a dumpster for junk removal to organize your waste and save you multiple trips to the landfill.

Give Your Lawn What It Needs

After a long winter, your lawn needs a little TLC to bounce back. Aerating the grass helps improve soil drainage and allows nutrients to reach the roots more effectively. Depending on your lawn’s condition, you might need to reseed patchy areas to achieve fuller growth.

Applying a quality fertilizer gives your grass the strength to grow lush and green. Keep an eye out for early weeds, as removing them promptly will save you from headaches later in the season. Water the lawn regularly to give new seeds a strong start.

Prepare Your Garden Beds for Growth

Your flower and vegetable beds also need a good spring tune-up. Start by removing any leftover plant debris from last season. Loosen the soil with a gardening fork or tiller to improve aeration and drainage.

To replenish nutrients and create an ideal environment for new plants, add fresh compost or soil amendments. After refreshing the garden bends, consider laying mulch around the plants. Mulch retains moisture, regulates soil temperature, and prevents pesky weeds from taking root.

Refresh Your Yard and Prepare for Growth

There are quite a few things you’ll need for a spring yard cleanup, but with the right planning, supplies, and equipment, you can transform your backyard into a spring utopia! Although it takes effort, the results will make every minute worth it and put your property on the path to looking its best throughout the season.

The post What You’ll Need for a Spring Yard Cleanup first appeared on Katie T's Home.

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Do: Pick the Perfect Spot

Choosing the right spot can truly set the tone for your picnic. Look for a location that balances beauty, comfort, and practicality. A shady grove beneath a tall tree can offer respite from the sun while providing a serene backdrop.

On the other hand, a lakeside stretch or a meadow filled with wildflowers can add to the charm and ambience. Don’t forget to scout for amenities like restrooms or trash bins nearby, especially if you’re planning a longer stay.

Don’t: Forget Comfortable Seating

It’s easy to overlook seating arrangements during the excitement of packing for a picnic, but nothing dampens the mood faster than an uncomfortable or soggy seat. For an added touch of comfort, consider portable chairs or cushions, especially if the picnic will extend over several hours. You might want to avoid sitting directly on damp grass or uneven ground, as it can lead to discomfort and even a little chill.

Do: Pack Easy-To-Eat Items

When it comes to picnic fare, simplicity is key. Finger foods like sandwiches, wraps, fresh fruits, and cut vegetables are crowd favorites for a reason—they’re tasty, portable, and mess-free. Opt for items that won’t spoil quickly, and consider using reusable or compostable containers to make cleanup a breeze.

Bite-sized treats, like cookies or small pastries, are perfect for dessert and add a touch of sweetness without any hassle.

Make sure you pre-prep everything so you can spend more time enjoying the moment and less time fussing with food.

Don’t: Forget Hydration

When prepping all the fun finger food, it’s not uncommon to forget hydration! Consider bringing reusable water bottles or a large insulated dispenser filled with ice-cold water for easy sharing. If plain water feels a little too ordinary, jazz it up with slices of citrus, berries, or cucumbers.

Don’t overlook other thirst-quenching favorites like iced tea, lemonade, or sparkling water. However, avoid sugary drinks that can dehydrate rather than hydrate.

Do: Bring Proper Picnic Gear

No one wants to fumble with a flimsy paper plate or drink warm lemonade. Bringing the right gear can make all the difference between a smooth, enjoyable outing and a frustrating one. Start with a wool blanket to combat splashes and stains—preferably one with a waterproof backing to ward off damp grass or unexpected spills.

Utensils may be easy to forget in the scramble, but they’re essential—think reusable cutlery, a durable set of plates, and unbreakable cups or tumblers.

Don’t forget essentials like a corkscrew or bottle opener, a cutting board for impromptu cheese platters, and napkins or reusable wipes.

With these simple yet essential dos and don’ts for the perfect picnic, you’re ready to create an outdoor adventure filled with laughter, delicious bites, and serene moments under the open sky. So grab your basket, gather your favorite people, and savor the beauty of nature!

The post The Dos and Don’ts for the Perfect Picnic first appeared on Katie T's Home.

These tips are designed to seamlessly integrate into your daily life, allowing you to maximize your savings without compromising your lifestyle. 

This post may contain affiliate links, which means I’ll receive a small commission if you purchase through my links, at no extra cost to you. Please read the full disclosure for more information.

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Updated January 23, 2025

I also ask that you please leave your thoughts in the comment section below. I’m always trying to produce helpful content for my readers, and without knowing what you think, it’s hard to know what you find helpful/not helpful. So please leave your thoughts below!!  

Katie T’s Farmhouse Home Fun Fact #9

Before I jump into this guide on the 10 realistic money saving tips and techniques, I want to mention a fun fact about myself! This is a new section I’m including on my blog posts so my readers can get to know me on a personal level!

So, for my ninth fun fact, I want to share that I’m a February birthday gal! February 26th, to be exact.

I never liked having a February birthday growing up because the weather was always meh, at least towards the end of February when the snow melts and it’s slushy. 

However, now that I’m older, I kinda like the idea that February is when maple sugaring takes place, and I LOVE maple syrup! So I guess it’s fitting!

Create a Budget That Works for You

The first technique out of the 10 realistic money saving tips is taking the time to create a budget that works for you. Without a clear understanding of your income, expenses, and spending habits, it’s easy for money to slip through the cracks and your savings to dwindle. 

By creating a budget tailored to your unique needs and priorities, you can understand where your money is going and make informed decisions about allocating it more effectively.

To start, take some time to gather all of your financial information, including your income, bills, and any other regular expenses.

This will give you a clear picture of your financial situation and help you identify areas where you may be overspending or where you can cut back. 

Viewing digital charges like your bank account or credit card statements is a great way to see those out-of-sight out-of-mind costs that you’ve forgotten about. For example, you might discover a subscription that you forgot to cancel. 

Next, you’ll need to prioritize the luxuries in life. 

That’s right, you heard me! And I think this is where lots of people go wrong with budgeting. 

It’s a shame because I think people get the notion that budgeting is strictly cutting back on every enjoyment of life, but, to be successful with saving money long term, that’s not the case. 

You have to look at it like a diet. How many times do people succeed with diets that go cold turkey and remove all bad foods from the equation? Pretty few right?

But from what I’ve seen, the diets that work are the ones that allow people to enjoy the food that they like. They might cut back, but they still have the option of being able to eat cookies or have a glass of wine or whatever floats their boat. 

So ask yourself, what luxury expenses are a priority, and what is feasible for your lifestyle? If that means cutting back and only buying one cup of coffee per day, then do that over cutting it out completely (if that’s the luxury you prioritize). If making coffee at home is feasible then do that instead and save yourself the money!

An easy way to prioritize luxuries is to allow yourself a set amount of spending money per month for these expenses. My husband and I call it “our splurge money,” and each month, we get the same amount of money that we can spend on our own wants, no questions asked. 

Get in the Habit of Tracking Your Expenses 

As you begin to implement your budget, it’s crucial to track your expenses regularly. Get in the habit of recording all of your purchases, whether it’s through a mobile app, a spreadsheet, or simply jotting them down in a notebook. 

This will give you a visual representation of where your money is going and allow you to identify any spending patterns that may need to be adjusted. 

By staying diligent with your expense tracking, you can make more informed decisions about your spending and ensure that you’re staying on track with your savings goals.

My husband and I use an app called Wallet. It’s free and easy to use, and I like it for a few reasons. One is that it doesn’t need to be linked to my bank account. Call me skeptical, but I like the idea of keeping it separate. 

Secondly, you can set up automatic charges like rent or insurance, so you don’t have to add them manually every month. 

Third, I made an account so my husband could see the budgeting expenses on his phone. So, if he makes purchases, he can directly add it in.

And finally, the biggest reason was that this app has a feature of setting an amount per period, and we can add expenses as we go along. So, for example, if my food budget was $500 per month, I can add the $235 grocery run to the expense tracker, and it will tell me I have $265 left for the rest of the month. 

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Pay off Debt As Soon As Possible!!

I cannot emphasize how important paying off debt is. Out of the 10 realistic money saving tips I talk about, this one is super crucial. We live in a world where debt is almost inevitable, but it is possible to live debt-free. 

This means that paying off debt is a priority and, in some ways, even more than saving money. Because as long as you have debt, you’ll be dishing out more money in the long run. And that’s all because of interest. 

Now listen, I’m not a financial advisor, so take my claims and ideas with a grain of salt, but I try to make the best financial decisions possible.

And if I can help others do the same by letting them know my techniques, then that’s a win in my book!

And to be completely transparent, my husband and I are debt-free. Now, at the time of writing this, we’re renting, so once we build our house and have a mortgage, that will be a different story. But part of the reason why we have no debt is because we prioritized it. 

We also both went to college, have new-ish cars, and have been able to comfortably live within our means. Our income has ranged throughout our marriage, with job shifts and whatnot, but our joint income has never been astronomical by any means. 

So, with that said, how are we debt-free? Because we prioritized the debt. We did this by paying the bill outright or, whenever we got a lump sum of money (let’s say money back from taxes), we paid off the school, car, etc. 

So, make your debt a priority as much as possible, and saving will be that much easier!

Cut Back on Unnecessary Expenses

Cutting back on unnecessary expenses is an essential step toward achieving financial stability. Out of the 10 realistic money saving tips, this one is easier than you may think.

While the ultimate goal is to pay off debt and gain financial freedom, it’s important to approach this process sustainably. By implementing some practical techniques, you can start cutting back on unnecessary expenses and accelerate your debt repayment journey.

One effective way to reduce expenses is to reevaluate your monthly subscriptions and memberships. Take a closer look at services you rarely use or can live without.

Are you paying for multiple streaming platforms when you only really use one? Do you have gym memberships that you rarely utilize? Consider canceling or downgrading these subscriptions to save money each month.

Another area to examine is how much of what you buy is essential.

For example, is food waste common in your household? Perhaps creating a meal plan and focusing on making meals with the food items that go bad first will help cut back on food waste and save you money in the long run. 

Additionally, take a look at your utility bills and find ways to reduce your consumption. Simple habits like turning off lights when leaving a room, adjusting the thermostat, and being mindful of water usage can result in substantial savings over time. 

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I like using smart plugs because they completely shut off the power, so electricity isn’t being pulled from the items that are still plugged into the outlet. 

Also, consider shopping around for better deals on insurance or utility providers. By comparing prices and negotiating better rates, you can further reduce your monthly expenses. 

Just be sure to do your due diligence and make sure there are no additional fees or surcharges that make the new insurance or utility providers seem cheaper but not so much in all actuality. 

Use Cashback from Credit Cards and Apps

One effective way to stretch your budget and make every dollar count is by taking advantage of cashback. Thanks to the rise of technology, there are numerous apps and credit cards available that allow you to earn cashback on your everyday purchases. 

Cashback apps work by partnering with retailers and offering you a percentage of your purchase back as cash or rewards points. By scanning your receipt or linking your credit card, you can effortlessly earn money on the items you already planned to buy.

If you have credit cards or plan on getting one, research which one best suits your needs. I have 3, including Discover, Amazon, and TJX.  

I only use Amazon and TJX for their intended retailers and the Discover card for everything else. Putting everyday expenses on credit cards and not a debit card adds a layer of protection for my bank account while allowing me to receive cashback. 

Depending on the card, my husband and I will use the cashback towards Christmas gifts every year, so the expense of getting Christmas gifts doesn’t completely throw our budget out the window. 

Embrace DIY and Repurposing

One of the simplest ways to embrace DIY and repurposing is by reusing containers and packaging. Instead of throwing away glass jars, plastic containers, or cardboard boxes, consider washing and repurposing them for storage purposes. 

These versatile containers can organize your pantry, store craft supplies, or even serve as containers for candles or possible gifts. Giving these items a second life saves money from buying new storage containers while reducing waste. 

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When storing food, I try not to use plastic, so investing in glass containers, reusable silicone bags, and beeswax wraps is the way to go. However, some foods come in glass containers that I keep every time including oui yogurts, Nature’s Promise dressings, and admittedly the large Carlo Rossi vessels. 

Saving these containers, especially the last two, is super handy when I make my own dressings, juice, or broths and need containers to store them in. This technique is one of my favorites out of the 10 realistic money saving tips I mention in this post.    

Another area where DIY and repurposing can make a big impact is in home decor. Instead of buying expensive artwork or decorative items, get creative and make your own. 

You can design and paint your wall art, create unique photo displays using old frames, or even repurpose items like wine corks, twine, or scrap fabric to make beautiful and personalized decor pieces. With a little imagination and some DIY skills, you can transform your living space on a budget and add a personal touch to your home. 

Repurposing furniture is another great way to save money and give your living space a fresh look. Instead of buying new furniture, consider refurbishing and repurposing pieces you already own or find at thrift stores. 

With a fresh coat of paint, new fabric, or some minor adjustments, you can turn old, worn-out furniture into stylish and unique pieces that perfectly fit your style and save you a significant amount of money.

Reduce Energy Consumption

Reducing energy consumption is not only good for the environment but also for your wallet. Making a few simple adjustments in your every day habits can lead to significant savings on your utility bills. 

One of the easiest ways to reduce energy consumption is by being mindful of your electricity usage. Remember to turn off lights and unplug electronics when they are not in use. This small habit can go a long way in conserving energy and lowering your monthly expenses.

Another effective way to reduce energy consumption is investing in energy-efficient appliances and electronics. Look for devices with the ENERGY STAR label, as they are designed to consume less energy without compromising performance. 

While these appliances might have a higher upfront cost, they can save you money in the long run.

Making simple changes to your daily routine can also contribute to energy savings. As I mentioned before, smart plugs help reduce electricity from the things that are always plugged into an outlet. For example, our TV, lamps, or computers. 

For obvious reasons, I wouldn’t recommend using these on large appliances like a refrigerator or washer machine. Also, be sure to properly shut down your computer if you decide to go in this direction, but they are super handy to have!

Shop Smart and Take Advantage of Sales

By being mindful of your shopping habits and making strategic purchases, you can take your money-saving efforts to the next level. Shopping smart and taking advantage of sales not only helps you stretch your budget further but also allows you to make the most of your hard-earned dollars.

One of the key strategies for shopping smart is to plan and make an online order and pick it up at the location. When you have a clear idea of what you need and order it online, you’ll be less likely to impulse buy that bag of chips you see while going down the store isles. I do this with my grocery shopping and it makes a big difference!

Another way to shop smart is to compare prices and look for the best deals. Before making a purchase, take the time to research different stores, both online and offline, to find the lowest prices. 

With the ease of online shopping, it’s easier than ever to do a quick price comparison.

Lastly, be open to shopping at second-hand stores or thrift shops. These establishments often have gently used items at a fraction of the retail price. 

Whether you’re looking for clothing, furniture, or household items, you can find great deals that will help you save money. Don’t overlook the value of pre-owned items as they can be just as functional and durable as new ones.

Cook at Home and Pack Your Lunch

One of the most effective ways to save money is by cooking at home and packing your lunch. Not only does this help you avoid the temptation of dining out or ordering takeout, but it also allows you to have full control over the ingredients you use and the portion sizes you serve.

By cooking at home, you can significantly reduce the money spent on food. Instead of spending money on pre-packaged meals or eating out at restaurants, you can buy fresh ingredients and prepare delicious meals right in your kitchen. 

Plus, cooking at home allows you to experiment with different recipes and flavors, adding variety to your meals without breaking the bank.

Additionally, packing your lunch can save you a substantial amount of money over time. Instead of buying lunch at work or school, you can plan and prepare your meals in advance, bringing them with you wherever you go.

Know the Value of the Things You’re Buying

Out of the 10 realistic money saving tips, this one is also super important. Just as shopping smart takes advantage of saving money with sales and price comparison, you should also know the value of what you’re buying. 

When making purchases, it’s easy to get caught up in the allure of sales, discounts, or the desire for convenience. However, taking the time to truly understand the value of the things you’re buying can be a game-changer for your wallet. 

One way to evaluate the value of an item is by reading reviews or seeking recommendations from trusted sources. Look for objective opinions that provide insights into the product’s performance, reliability, and overall satisfaction. This will help you gauge whether the item is worth the investment and if it aligns with your needs.

Another aspect to consider is the lifespan of the item. Cheap or low-quality products may seem like a great deal in the short term, but they often need to be replaced more frequently, ultimately costing you more in the long run. 

Understanding the value means assessing the durability and longevity of the item, ensuring that you’re making a wise investment that will stand the test of time.

Furthermore, knowing the value can extend beyond just tangible items. It’s also essential to consider the intangible benefits or drawbacks associated with a purchase. 

For example, buying a more expensive but energy-efficient light bulbs may have a higher upfront cost, but it can save you money on your electric bills in the long term. This value can help you make decisions that align with your financial goals and prioritize long-term savings over short-term gains.

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Or even buying items with a lifetime or extended guarantee. Depending on the application, it may be worth the additional investment. This is why I was willing to invest in my Emilee Henry pans, because of their 10-year warranty.

Ultimately know that just because things are on sale doesn’t mean you’re getting a good price. So if that means not participating in major sales like Black Friday because companies tend to raise the price of their products in the months before only to put it on sale so you think you’re getting a good price, then don’t. 

10 Realistic Money Saving Tips and Techniques That Are Far From Challenging

Incorporating these 10 realistic money saving tips into your daily life can have a significant impact on your financial well-being. Start implementing these techniques today and watch your savings grow steadily over time. Remember, small changes can lead to big results, and saving money will always be a long-term game. So, what are you waiting for get saving and sign up for my newsletter below!!

The post 10 Realistic Money Saving Tips and Techniques That Are Far From Challenging first appeared on Katie T's Home.

This post may contain affiliate links, which means I’ll receive a small commission if you purchase through my links, at no extra cost to you. Please read the full disclosure for more information.

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Updated January 14, 2025

I also ask that you please leave your thoughts in the comment section below. I’m always trying to produce helpful content for my readers, and without knowing what you think, it’s hard to know what you find helpful/not helpful. So please leave your thoughts below!!

Katie T’s Farmhouse Home Fun Fact #17

Fun fact time! This is a new section I’m including on my blog posts so my readers can get to know me on a personal level!

So, for my 17th fun fact, I want to share that my go-to alcoholic beverage is wine!

Preferably cabernet or merlot, but now and again, a sweet wine like sangria is the perfect way to end a sunny summer day. 

Creating a Budget That Works for You

When creating a budget that works for you, it’s essential to start by understanding your financial goals and priorities. 

Look at your income and expenses, and identify areas where you can cut back or eliminate unnecessary spending. 

By setting clear goals and tracking your expenses, you’ll be able to create a budget that aligns with your values and helps you achieve financial freedom. 

In this article, I go into more detail on how to save money. It explores budgeting tips and strategies to help organize your finances. 

Unnecessary Subscriptions to Cut Out

One area where you can cut unnecessary spending is by evaluating your current subscriptions. 

Take a close look at the services you are subscribed to, such as streaming platforms, gym memberships, magazine subscriptions, and other recurring expenses. 

Note that some health insurance companies may reimburse investments such as gym memberships up to a certain amount, so this type of subscription is a case-by-case circumstance. 

Then, ask yourself if you are truly getting value from each subscription and if it aligns with your financial goals. 

Consider cutting out any subscriptions you rarely use or can live without to free up more money in your budget. My biggest recommendation is cutting out cable and music subscriptions.

Cable and music subscriptions take the seat for the first two things to cut out to embrace frugal living for a few reasons. 

For cable, other streaming platforms are cheaper, like Netflix. Some of you may disagree with the music subscription, but hear me out. 

Saving money is a mindset. I discuss this in more detail in my article on the 10 realistic money-saving tips and techniques, but the main point is if you have the option of spending more money on something, more often than not you’re spending money on the convenience. 

Depending on your specific situation, you need to be honest with yourself and ask if spending the extra money on this convenience of not having to hear a few ads is worth the cost. 

It’s not necessarily about the low cost of the $11 expense each month, but rather the recognition that something has to give. The forward-thinking that you could have saved an extra $1k by the end of the year if you cut out 8 $11 unnecessary expenses each month.  

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Replacing Disposable Items with Sustainable Alternatives

When considering ways to embrace frugal living, it’s essential to look at the items you use every day that may contribute to unnecessary spending and environmental waste. 

One effective strategy is to replace disposable items with sustainable alternatives. 

For example, instead of buying single-use plastic water bottles, invest in a reusable water bottle that you can refill throughout the day. This saves you money in the long run while reducing your carbon footprint by cutting down on plastic waste. Not to add, the negative side effects of exposure to plastic in general.

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Similarly, you can swap out plastic bags and plastic wrap with beeswax wrap, and glass containers. I will say I keep some on hand with these three just in case, but I will use the alternatives if possible. 

Another item to stop buying to embrace frugal living is dryer sheets. Wool dryer balls are a great alternative to use instead. 

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And as far as beauty goes, I never buy makeup remover/pads or disposable razors anymore. Instead, I use these reusable makeup cloths and a metal razor with replaceable razor blades. 

Quality vs Quantity

When embracing frugal living, it’s important to consider the concept of quality versus quantity in your purchasing decisions. Opting for high-quality, durable items may initially cost more but can save you money in the long run by reducing the need for frequent replacements. 

Investing in well-made, long-lasting products can also bring you greater satisfaction and value over time compared to cheaper, lower-quality alternatives.

However, you don’t always need to opt for quality. For example, I can honestly say I don’t use my iron a lot. Knowing this, I chose the cheaper iron to save money because I’m not looking for the quality. 

This same concept applies to brand-name items. The only time a brand is worth the investment is if they are associated with quality. For example, I’d say a few brand names worth the investment because they are considered quality brands are KitchenAid, Makita, Toyota, Shark, and Whirlpool to name a few.

If the brand itself is purely luxury, it’s not worth it. 

We live in a world where status holds an unfortunate amount of weight. Brands like clothing, accessories, makeup, shoes, cars, etc., will market their products as luxury items and charge much more than a similar item with equal benefits. 

If you ask me, the people who lose are the people who fall for the trap. Status can’t be bought. It’s earned. And although you may feel bougie walking around with a Stanley insulated tumbler, it means nothing if you don’t have the money to show for it because you spent it on the name.

Mindful Spending on Essential Items

When managing your budget effectively, it’s essential to practice mindful spending on essential items. 

Think about items that are crucial for your daily life and well-being, vs the items that are purely extra.

For example, air fresheners, Febreeze, perfume, and excessive makeup products are extras in my book. 

And words of wisdom to the people who love the extra smelly things in their home: you probably have at least a handful of people in your life who strongly dislike the fact that you use perfumes/smelly things. 

The reason for this is that you probably don’t realize how strong the smell is because you’ve gone “nose-blind” from it. 

And from personal experience, there are people in my life that I get slight headaches from being around because they smell like artificial scents. 

So do all of us scent-aware individuals who don’t have a nice way of telling you that you smell too strong a favor and tone it down. Please. 

Embrace Frugal Living and Say Goodbye to These 14 Money-Wasting Items: Budget Tips for Beginners

By being mindful of your spending habits and focusing on the quality of essential items, you can make the most out of every purchase and maximize the value you receive. 

This shift in mindset can not only help you save money but also lead to a greater sense of satisfaction and contentment with your purchases. 

In conclusion, by ditching these 14 money-wasting items and embracing frugal living, you’re setting yourself up for success! Don’t forget to follow me on Pinterest for updates and related content like this! 

The post Embrace Frugal Living and Say Goodbye to These 14 Money-Wasting Items first appeared on Katie T's Home.

This post may contain affiliate links, which means I’ll receive a small commission if you purchase through my links, at no extra cost to you. Please read the full disclosure for more information.

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Please leave your thoughts in the comment section below. I’m always trying to produce helpful content for my readers, and without knowing what you think, it’s hard to know what you find helpful/not helpful. So please leave your thoughts below!!  

Katie T’s Cottage Home Fun Fact #43

For my 43rd fun fact, I want to share that I have a new love for canning!

There is something so validating about opening up a jar of sauce or whatever canned good, knowing it’s made with quality ingredients while being something I contributed to our household. 

Children are a Gift from God

As a Christian homemaker preparing for motherhood, it’s probably no surprise that children are one of the greatest gifts from God.

There is a reason the bible says that children are a reward, a blessing from God.

We, as Christians, are even told to be childlike. Matthew 18: 1-5 warns us that the greatness of heaven is not measured by rank or power but by childlikeness. God wants us to trust Him as our Father. Earthly success means nothing in God’s kingdom. 

And how great is it that God can abundantly bless us with His greatest gift, and in doing so, a parent is submerged into the dynamic of what it’s like to see things through the lens of God? What it’s like to be a parent with a special love for their children. Similar to the unconditional love God has for us.

Preparing Before Pregnancy

While the cliche of never being fully prepared for parenthood holds true, that doesn’t mean you can’t try your best. 

Personally, I think if you start preparing for motherhood when you get the exciting confirmation of pregnancy, you are not allowing yourself ample time to prepare to the best of your ability.

Similar to getting married. You shouldn’t have those important marriage discussions after you’re engaged. Likely, you would have had those discussions before the proposal, all to determine if your partner is equally yoked. 

And I’m sure many of you may be preparing without realizing it. 

For me, preparing for motherhood looks like personal growth. Trying to become the best version of myself. Asking myself what qualities I can work on today while life is “consistent” to help better the mother I’ll become down the road.

For example, I cannot expect to be the type of mother who reads bedtime stories to my children if I can’t even get in the routine of reading myself. While it’s not impossible to develop that habit when the time comes, it’s certainly unlikely.

In addition, what conversations can I have with my husband about how we will raise our children? What decisions do we need to make today to help give us the best physical, emotional, and spiritual health for when that day eventually comes?

It’s easier if you are around others who have children. You get to witness those who are close to you as parents and ask yourself what qualities you admire and want to obtain in your motherhood role.

Just be mindful that not every quality you see in other parents is a good fit for your situation. This is especially true when bombarded with content from social media, which leads me to the next section. 

Taking Social Media for What It Is

Social media can be a powerful yet destructive tool. That’s why Victoria, creator of Thyme and Tenderness, has advice on navigating social media when preparing for motherhood.

Victoria is a 30-year-old mom of 1. She’s been married for 8 years and resides in southern Maryland. She is passionate about homemaking and has been sharing content and inspiring others since 2018. 

Victoria Says:

“They say that becoming a mother is the most “natural” experience to go through, and although that may be true for some, it isn’t for others. When I became a mother, there were many things that felt effortless, but there were also many things that I had no idea about. 

I also found that there’s so much “noise” out there when it comes to being a mother. So many have opinions about what makes or doesn’t make a good mother. Not to mention all the information, videos, and stories we have to weed through when it comes to infant and child care.

When someone is trying to learn what to do as their new role as a parent, they might become paralyzed with confusion over all the abundance of information. 

My advice to any new mother is to mute all of that “extra” noise.

You don’t need strangers on the internet to tell you what to do. Limit who you’re getting information from. Choose only a handful of older, wiser, trusted individuals to be your counselors. Ideally, your own mother can help be your guide or even your grandmother. But sometimes that isn’t always possible. In that case, a trusted female friend with experience with motherhood would be your best ally. 

Social media is a wonderful tool to learn new things. It’s where many go for parenting advice. But, social media can be a two edged sword. On one hand, it can be very helpful, but on the other hand, it can be harmful. For every good piece of advice, there are 3 bad pieces of advice out there.

The best way to sort it all is to ask yourself the following questions: 

-Is this in harmony with the basics of what I know?

-Does this sound too good to be true?

-Is this overly sensational?

-What do the comments or feedback on the post have to say?

Asking yourself those questions while reading or learning on social media can help you sort out what is good advice from the bad. The more information you gather, the easier it is to make an informed decision when learning what to do in your motherhood responsibilities.” 

With almost any information, we need to take a step back and analyze if it applies to our lives. 

Not only are there lots of voices, but everyone’s circumstances are different. What might work for the vast majority may not work for you for one reason or another.

Don’t be afraid to do what’s best for your situation.

The Relationship With Your Husband

Preparing for motherhood is more than analyzing who you want to become as a mother. Another key component is the relationship with your husband and how the addition of a child may impact those dynamics. 

That’s why Grace is going to walk us through what we need to know about our marriage with the addition of a little one.

Grace is a dedicated Christian homemaker, wife & mother who believes in the transformative power of nurturing a home. She enjoys exploring and learning all there is to know about gardening/homesteading, creating culinary delights, and loves sharing traditional living content online via @thatjoyfilledhome. 

Grace Says:

“Children are life changing in the best way possible. When a baby is born it transforms a woman from maiden to mother, and quickly our lives are consumed with this new little bundle of joy, especially in the early years when all their needs come from mom. However, it is easy for this to strain a marriage.

My best advice is to always put your marriage as a priority above children.

I know that seems counterintuitive, and I’m not saying neglect your children. I am saying that your marriage will last far past when your children grow up and leave the nest.

Your marriage is also the worldview you are giving your children of what marriage looks like. You can choose to give them a picture of covering offenses in love, being quick to forgive, loving each other when the other is being unlovable, or you can give them an image of bitterness, resentment, keeping score, and being contentious.

The health of your marriage impacts future generations, and it needs to be tended to. Be intentional to make time for each other, go on dates, listen intently to what the other is saying, don’t neglect the marriage bed, and set healthy boundaries.  Remember you are a team.“

I feel like this concept is not discussed nearly enough. 

It might seem contradictory to God’s teaching, but the church recognizes this to be true. I remember during my marriage prep pre-cana classes, they told my husband and I, that we, as a couple, should prioritize each other above our children. 

In that way, preparing for motherhood means working on your relationship with your husband. Use this time to build a strong foundation so that, when the time comes, you and your spouse will be solid. 

Preparing for Motherhood as a Christian Homemaker: Future Mom Advice from the Experts

There you have it! Why preparing for motherhood should not just be limited to the duration of pregnancy and some helpful tips and advice from experienced mothers! Comment below if you have anything to add regarding your motherhood prep journey! Until next time!

Love,

Katie

The post Preparing for Motherhood as a Christian Homemaker: Future Mom Advice from the Pros first appeared on Katie T's Home.

Also, check out my grocery shopping digital downloads for an organized mealtime routine! So, without further ado, let’s jump right in!

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Katie T’s Cottage Home Fun Fact #37

For my 37th fun fact, I want to share that I am looking forward to the fall season that is approaching!

I live in New England, so I see all the pretty leaves changing!

5 Dimensions of Health

When most people think of health, they think of exercise and eating healthily. While this is important, it’s only a fraction of what it means to be healthy.

In addition to physical health, there are 4 other categories of health. These categories include mental, emotional, social, and spiritual.

Many typical health-promoting content creators focus on the physical health end of the spectrum.

While this isn’t bad in itself, it is missing the other four pieces of the puzzle. Without the other pieces, you don’t have a full healthy lifestyle.

With that said, today I will discuss some of the things I take issue with regarding some health-promoting content and what a realistic goal should look like. 

Getting Up at the Crack of Dawn

So, the first healthy lifestyle habits that I want to discuss revolve around the time you wake up. 

So often, I see content creators with the “what my morning looks like” trend, and they start with an early morning at 4:30-5:30. While some content creators are honest, I have doubts about some.

As a result, it’s so easy for the rest of us to feel lazy or less than because we are not waking up super early. 

Now listen, if that’s when your biological clock wakes you up, then that’s great! I have no issues with that. 

My point is everyone is different and in a different season of life. I think anywhere between 6 am and 8 am is a perfectly healthy time to wake up naturally. 

So not only does this unrealistic goal set high expectations for ourselves, but if you’re struggling to get up before 8 you’re fed tips and tricks on how to wake up early.

In some situations, these can be helpful, but I find it’s covering up the heart of the matter.

My morning routine and waking up have drastically shifted over the last 10 years. The times in life when I struggled the most to get up were usually because of external factors going on in life. 

On the contrary, the times when I find it easier to wake up are the periods in life when I am at peace with where I am. 

These “tips and tricks” distract our attention from the root cause of why it’s a struggle to get out of bed.

I know this may not be the case for all, but I’m sure plenty of you can relate to the idea that getting up may not be easy because of external factors. These external factors consume your emotional, mental, and even social well-being. So it’s no wonder you can’t wake up early.

So, my recommendation for those struggling to naturally get up early in the morning is to stop putting pressure on yourselves and start addressing the situations in life that are holding you back. 

And it could be as simple as getting more physical activity into your day. Other times, it may look like diving into the depths of your emotions and doing the hard work of healing.

It’s not easy and will take time. But the outcome will be completely worth it. 

The Problem with Routines

Next up on the list of healthy lifestyle habits for a down-to-earth catholic housewife is to discuss routines.

A routine by itself is a good thing. However, too much of a good thing is not a good thing. But before I discuss why that is, I want to mention that some routines are completely unnecessary.

Let’s take, for example, a classic skincare routine. 

If you’re eating healthy, exercising, and monitoring things like the shampoo you use, and external factors like housing and allergens, then your skin should be healthy by itself. 

Sure, you may need to moisturize after a shower or rinse your face when you first wake up, but after that, everything else is extra. Now, I know everyone has different skin types, which impacts the need to use additional products. 

However, I wholeheartedly believe that if your skin is acting up, it’s your body’s way of telling you something is off. If you’re using all of these products on your skin to make it glow, you could be missing the signals your body is trying to tell you. 

Not only that, but you’re spending time and money in doing so. As a result, this is taking time from your day to tend to other matters while ignoring the signals your body is trying to tell you. 

So, now that that’s established, I want to reiterate that routines are a good thing when done correctly. 

Having structure helps to stay organized and know what you need to accomplish.

But when there’s too much emphasis on structure, you risk missing the bigger picture.

For example, in my college years, I took between 5-7 classes in a semester, worked 20 hours a week, exercised almost daily, made time for family and friends, and managed to get straight A’s for most of college.  

The thing is, I was always so stressed, especially when I was falling behind because my whole life revolved around a scheduled routine. This hindered my ability to have a healthy emotional life.

So, make sure to make room for the “unstructured” parts of life, away from having a routine.

Just like a child needs unstructured play time, we need unstructured moments to step away and live in the moment. 

This is also where your spiritual health can influence your life. Ask God what he is calling you to do. If your focus is just on the next task at hand, you’ll miss the small nudge from Him.

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Eating Healthy

The next healthy lifestyle habits I want to share revolve around eating healthy. 

When I see content like “what I eat in a day,” I feel like it can be slightly misleading. While yes, I’m sure plenty of content creators eat super healthy, as they describe in their content, it doesn’t just stop there. 

My issue comes from the content creators Promoting their healthy choices, who are probably filming what they Ate on a Monday after the regret from the weekend diet is sinking in.

And I can’t even say what they are doing is entirely bad, but what happens is again, people have an unrealistic expectation set for themselves because they see all of these healthy eating posts. 

Also, keep in mind, that some content creators who eat super healthy are doing it because it is part of their job as content creators. The other factor is that healthy food (especially take-out food) might be more readily available in other places of the world. 

Here in the US, we have to worry about so many preservatives, additives, and dyes, to name a few, never mind the type of food we are eating. 

That’s why my personal goal is to make more food from scratch, but even that can be unrealistic. Short of eating the same few types of food every day, I can’t do it all. 

And the thing is, everyone’s “diet” will look a little different because everyone is different. 

You got the vegetarians and vegans in the world who feel completely fine with a diet of beans and pea pods, and I’m over here eating homemade beef jerky for breakfast because my body is craving protein. 

And I’d argue that’s part of what it means to be healthy. To listen to your body and what it’s craving. Now, just because you’re craving chips doesn’t necessarily mean that’s the food of choice, but rather that you’re probably dehydrated. But you get the idea.

Two documentaries that go into more detail on this notion are “Live to 100: Secrets of the Blue Zones” and “Hack Your Health: The Secrets of Your Gut”. These documentaries are super detailed about the different fundamentals of health and how to achieve it. Especially the video on gut health, which focuses on your everyday diet and food consumption. 

So, yes eat your fruits and veggies, get protein, drink water, and incorporate healthy carbs. It’s not complicated. Do the best you can do while still allowing yourself to splurge now and again. 

Get Your Priorities in Order

I believe prioritizing is vital for those looking to create healthy lifestyle habits. 

I won’t go into too much detail on how to prioritize as a homemaker because I have a full guide on how to prioritize below. The key is to make sure you prioritize your overall health. Not just “you”.

Prioritize your relationship with God (spiritual health). Prioritize your love language in your daily routine. Prioritize the things that bring you purpose. 

Don’t just prioritize your “to-do” list. This will set you up for only being productive through the lens of society, and as Christians, we are called to prioritize God as number one. Everything else will fall into place.

Also, prioritize your mental health. Don’t be afraid to take on a new challenge or set time aside to learn a new skill that interests you. 

Life itself is a voyage of lessons, so by default, we are constantly learning.

But when’s the last time you made time to learn something that interests you, all in the name of health? It’s easier to picture health in a way that is associated with exercising, but the mind also craves a challenge, just like our bodies crave the physical challenge of exercise. 

Count Your Blessings… And Friends

When you think about most of the content for healthy lifestyle habits, it accounts for a single person, i.e. drinking water, exercising, getting good sleep, etc. All those things are good, but it’s missing pieces for an overall healthy lifestyle.

Focus on spending time with good people.

We become the people we surround ourselves with. So, if you are spending time with people who are content in their misery, they will bring you down with them.

Instead, focus on the good people in your life and make room for them. We are social beings, and while some have an easier time socializing, everyone needs to make time for the good people in life.

Sometimes it’s difficult to prioritize building strong and healthy relationships with good people when life is filled with responsibilities, commitments, and everything in between. Don’t let those things hold you back from creating a life worth living.

Healthy Lifestyle Habits for a Down-to-Earth Catholic Housewife

So there you have it! Some down-to-earth healthy lifestyle habits for a Christian housewife. Let me know in the comments if you feel validated with any of these or if you disagree. As always, I’m so happy that you are hear, and don’t forget to follow for more! Until next time!

Love,

Katie

The post Healthy Lifestyle Habits for a Down-to-Earth Catholic Housewife first appeared on Katie T's Home.

Also, be sure to check out my feminine rosary digital download templates! So, without further ado, let’s jump in! 

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Katie T’s Cottage Home Fun Fact #35

For my 35th fun fact, I want to share that I love going to the ocean! Swimming in a lake or pool is also fun, but there is something so exciting and relaxing about taking a trip to the beach and spending the day. 

Society Views

Before I explain submitting to your husband and how to do so, I want to discuss why society reacts negatively towards it. 

Unsurprisingly, it starts with the feminist movement. What was once advocating for equality has now turned into a campaign to promote the idea of being a strong and independent woman. 

If you want my opinion, there is no such thing as a Christian feminist because both parties contradict one another.

If we are really “independent” strong women, where does God fit into all of that?

We are all dependent on God and God alone. The idea that we can be an “independent” woman is the apple of the tree.

It’s an enticing campaign wrapped up in a bow, telling you that you can do everything by yourself because, after all, you’re independent and don’t need a man.   

This is such a slap to the face to God because he doesn’t have to give us anything. He doesn’t have to give us our husbands, kids, jobs, friends, blessings, and free will. But he wants to gift us these blessings. Having the attitude that we are independent would be like a toddler thinking that they don’t need their parents and can do it themselves. 

And I know there is a spectrum regarding this way of thinking. To be clear, I’m not trying to attack the woman out there who simply wants to be treated fairly and with dignity. I hope that’s something every human wants.

I’m talking about the feminists who are in your face about their beliefs and push them on the rest of society who go out of their way to victimize men in the same way they are claiming to be victimized.

So, of course, with the idea that we are supposed to be independent, hearing the passage “Likewise you wives, be submissive to your husbands” (1 Peter 3:1) may raise a couple of eyebrows minimally. But this is looking at scripture through a feminist lens and, by default, makes people feel like the Church is bigoted or toxic. 

The sad reality is this passage is completely taken out of context. It’s no different than hearing a fraction of a conversation and missing the vital conditions of the matter. 

What Does Submission Actually Mean?

Well, submitting to your husband means that you support your husband’s mission. Submission is placing yourself under the overarching mission of another person. Sub-mission. 

The sad reality is that people dismiss the part that comes after Ephesians 22 because they biasly take wives being submissive out of context. People miss the: 

Husbands, love your wives, as Christ loved the church and gave himself up for her, that he might sanctify her, having cleansed her by the washing of water with the word, that he might present the church to himself in splendor, without spot or wrinkle or any such thing, that she might be holy and without blemish. Even so husbands should love their wives as their own bodies. He who loves his wife loves himself. For no man ever hates his own flesh, but nourishes and cherishes it, as Christ does the church,  because we are members of his body. “For this reason a man shall leave his father and mother and be joined to his wife, and the two shall become one flesh.” This is a great mystery, and I mean in reference to Christ and the church; however, let each one of you love his wife as himself, and let the wife see that she respects her husband. Ephesians 5:25-33

So, in essence, we are told to support our husband’s mission, and the apostle Paul clearly outlines what our husband’s mission should be. It should be to love us, their wives, as Christ loved and gave himself up for his church. 

Jesus came to earth to lead us to God. He didn’t do this by ruling the nation or becoming a tyrant King. He did it by serving. He did it by laying down his life so that we, his church, may have the chance to live eternally with God the Father. 

If it’s expected of men to lead and love us like Jesus loves his church, then it means that we are the priority of our husbands. Even if it means they are sacrificing their own lives to save ours.  That’s true love. Shouldn’t we want to stand behind this? 

Ironically, being submissive is portrayed as being a doormat, but if anything, it guarantees us a life of receiving love. 

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What Does Submitting to Our Husbands Look Like?

To be clear, I am not advocating for women to be taken advantage of. Implementing submission in your relationship is where it gets tricky because the model given in the bible of what it means to be submissive doesn’t account for brokenness.

We are all broken, and the sad reality is some people simply do not have a healthy way of managing their brokenness. That can make it incredibly hard for the people who want to do right, and it can lead to enabling, which is a separate issue of its own. 

This is why it’s crucial to be equally yoked. If your husband’s mission in life is not in line with yours, then submitting to him will contradict your biblical role.

If your husband’s mission is to serve himself, then submitting to him will only feed his ego because he’s not in the right frame of mind. If you believe this to be your situation, the best thing you can do is pray and seek support from those experienced with knowing how to handle such situations.

But if you are equally yoked, then being submissive is supporting your husband’s mission. 

I’d say the mission across the board is to make it to heaven. To do what we can in this life for an eternal abundance with God. As wives, we are held accountable to support and do what we can to get ourselves and our husbands to heaven.

If you want inspiration on how to do this, I have 3 tips on what you can do today to help your husband get to heaven. 

Likewise, our husband’s goal is similar.

But here’s the catch. We are all unique in personality, gifts, experiences, and how we each fit together as a couple. 

So there isn’t a “one size fits all” in the sense that I recommend you do XYZ. Because it’s not about being the best homemaker who gets up early, does the laundry, and makes all the meals from scratch. It’s not about that at all. 

Rather, your husband’s goal is to serve you, which may take the form of being a provider financially for the family and allowing you to stay home and work on your relationship with God, raise kids, and/or make your house a home. 

As a result of this service, it’s your responsibility to support him. So, while yes, it can take the form of doing the laundry, cooking meals, budgeting finances, and running errands, it doesn’t always have to be. 

I would even say your objective is encouraging him to be the best version of himself. If that means he struggles with overeating, spending, vanity, or laziness, part of submitting to him is helping him through these struggles, however, that may look.

Does Being Submissive Mean We Are Unequal?

If you’re merely looking at submitting to your husband from the perspective of who has the authority then, yes. I guess it would mean that we are “unequal”. 

But I believe this frame of mind to be looking at it the wrong way. It would be like saying the best player on the team is the one who has scored the most goals. While yes, that player is important and can win the game, the defensive players keep the team from losing.

Just like the trinity, the foundation of Christianity, the father is the head, and Jesus is the son, yet both, including the holy spirit, are one. 

Each persons in the trinity, father, son, and holy spirit, have a different role but are united as one Godhead. So, we, as Christian women, don’t have less authority than our husbands, rather we are united as one with different roles.

Submitting to Your Husband as a Christian Wife: How Submission is Misunderstood

There you have it! Submitting to your husband as an act of love and what it means. I hope you have found this post helpful, and I look forward to seeing you next time!

The post Submitting to Your Husband as a Christian Wife: How Submission is Misunderstood first appeared on Katie T's Home.

This post may contain affiliate links, which means I’ll receive a small commission if you purchase through my links, at no extra cost to you. Please read full disclosure for more information.

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I also ask that you please leave your thoughts in the comment section below. I’m always trying to produce helpful content for my readers, and without knowing what you think, it’s hard to know what you find helpful/not helpful. So please leave your thoughts below!!  

Katie T’s Cottage Home Fun Fact #33

For my 33rd  fun fact, I want to share that I love sushi! 

It’s a new love as of 2 years ago, and my only regret is not trying it sooner! Luckily, I can make up for lost time!!

Know Your Why for Living with Intention

The first tip on living with intention is to know your why. Without it, the other tips later on in this article will be less meaningful.

Knowing your why is the fuel behind your purpose in your homemaking role.

Why do you get up in the morning and do what you do? Why do you continue to do what you do? Why are you choosing to do what you do?

Knowing your purpose will influence the decisions about what you should and shouldn’t take on.

For example, my “why” is because I want to cultivate a life that I love. I love what I do. I love that I can share and inspire other young women with knowledge and tips on facing certain issues.

And, I love waking up knowing that I am abundantly blessed with another beautiful day hand-crafted by God himself. 

If you’re struggling to think of your why, then perhaps it’s time to make a change.

Spend more time with the good people in your life. Make more room for alone time with God. Try picking up that hobby you’ve been wanting to do for a long time. 

It doesn’t always have to be expensive. For example, if you want to take dance classes but, can’t afford them, then search for different dance routines on YouTube and dance in your living room! You may feel a little silly at first (speaking from personal experience), but it’ll be worth it!

Living with Intention: Learn How to Self-Reflect

Knowing how to self-reflect is a huge step in living with intention. The two go hand-in-hand, and you can’t have one without the other. 

Self-reflection requires you to self-monitor your behaviors and emotions. Learning your behaviors and emotions is essential in knowing how to live intentionally.

When monitoring your behavior, think about the things you like about yourself. Think about the things that you know you can improve upon. 

For example, if you self-reflect and recognize that you have poor posture, actively think about how you are standing and correct your posture when you’re slouching. If you can get in the habit of doing so, you will be more intentional.

Emotions, on the other hand, are much more complex. It’s not as simple as fixing that particular situation. This self-monitoring is essential in those moments where we feel our emotions are strongest. 

Are they good emotions we want to continue, like happiness and joy? Or, are they negative emotions like stress and sadness?

So many times, we feel a strong negative emotion, and instead of doing the uncomfortable or inconvenient self-reflection to determine why we have that emotion, we push it down to the depths of our being to go unresolved. 

The problem with ignoring these emotions is that they will eventually pile up until we snap, which completely contradicts what it means to live with intention.

Instead, take a second and ask yourself why you feel the way you do. Take a deeper dive into your emotion at that moment and try to untie the meaning behind it. Once you can give that emotion meaning, it will set the course for how you move forward in similar situations. 

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Learn How to Prioritize

Knowing how to prioritize is the second to last tip in this article on living with intention. 

I won’t go into detail on how to prioritize because I have a full guide on learning how to prioritize as a Christian homemaker, but I will explain why knowing it is essential in intentional living.

Many of us struggle to step away from autopilot and take a stand for how we want to spend our time.

The problem is that society has set itself up to reward people pleasers and those who can do the next best thing. 

People pleasing is a common problem in today’s world. By feeding into this ideology, we give the other individual’s opinion authority over our wants and desires.

As a result, this leaves someone doing things they don’t want to do, all in the name of what others will think. 

However, if we have our priorities in order and know our “why” as discussed earlier, this will help us say no to the things that don’t bring value to our lives.

Plus, it will free up our time to do those things that give us homemakers purpose and value. We are not simply going through the motions because of other people’s beliefs but rather being intentional in how we want to spend our time. 

Living with Intention: The Art of Being Mindful

Being mindful is the last stepping stone to living with intention. 

While the two are very similar, being mindful is smaller scale compared to living with intention, which encompasses the big picture.

Being mindful is buying the ingredients for the recipe you intend to make for dinner, compared to being intentional in how you cook the dinner. 

Being mindful means you can foresee possible negative or positive outcomes before they may or may not happen.

You observe your surroundings and think about the actions you are initiating in and the potential implications it may have. 

Some mindfulness is learned, while, on the contrary, some learned behaviors may obstruct mindfulness. 

For example, you may have grown up in a house that added felt furniture pads to the bottom of the furniture legs to prevent scratching. When you move out and get your furniture, you know to be mindful and use the felt pads because it was learned.

On the flip side, you may grow up doing something and continue doing that thing because it’s what you were used to. For example, I grew up in a household that peeled the carrots. One day, as I was peeling carrots, it occurred to me that it was completely unnecessary. As long as I washed the carrots well, there wasn’t a need to do the extra step. 

Learned mindfulness is its step towards intentional living. However, mastering what I call, situational mindfulness will help you make leaps and bounds towards being more intentional with how you live your life.

When you are in a situation where you have to exercise that part of the brain, you are taking the time to be aware of your surroundings and the potential pros and cons of responding in a certain manner. 

Living with Intention: Inspiring Young Woman in their Homemaking Role

Learning the art and skill of living with intention will help you slow down and be more aware of your surroundings and situations in life. I hope this post has helped you and, I look forward to hearing what you have to say in the comments below!!

The post Living with Intention: Inspiring Young Woman in their Homemaking Role first appeared on Katie T's Home.