Ministry of Mothering

If you’re looking for a quick, crowd-pleasing dessert that captures all the flavors of fall, this Apple Dump Cake is your answer. Recently, I made this for a gathering, and it was a huge hit! It only requires three main ingredients, plus a scoop of ice cream if you want to go all out. Let's dive into this effortless recipe that you’ll keep coming back to! Ingredients: 2 cans of apple pie filling 1 box of yellow cake mix 1 stick (1/2 cup) of butter, melted Optional: Vanilla ice cream for serving Instructions: Prepare the Baking Dish: Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) and lightly grease a 9x13-inch baking dish. Add the Apples: Pour the apple pie filling into the prepared dish, spreading it out evenly to cover the bottom. Add Cake Mix: Sprinkle the yellow cake mix over the apple pie filling, ensuring it covers the apples in an even layer. Add the Butter: Drizzle the melted butter over the cake mix. Try to cover as much of the dry mix as possible. Bake: Place the dish in the ove...

 In the first part of this series, we explored how community helps our children develop godly friendships and learn to love and serve others. But the benefits of community don’t stop there. Today, we’ll dive into more reasons why community is essential for our children’s homeschooling journey. Developing Social Skills and Confidence A common concern about homeschooling is whether children will have enough social interaction. While homeschooling offers personalized learning, it’s essential to intentionally seek out social experiences for our children. Through community—whether it’s a homeschool co-op, team sports, or church activities—our children learn critical social skills. They practice communication, teamwork, and conflict resolution, building confidence as they interact with others. These experiences are essential in helping them navigate the world with grace and wisdom. Accountability and Encouragement Just as we benefit from the accountability and encouragement of fellow hom...

 As homeschool parents, we know that shaping our children’s academic education is only part of our calling. We’re also responsible for guiding their character, faith, and development into the people God has designed them to be. While homeschooling offers us a beautiful opportunity to be directly involved in this process, we must remember that our children, just like us, are created for community. God’s Design for Relationships God established the importance of community from the very beginning. In Genesis 2:18, He says, "It is not good for the man to be alone." This principle applies to our children as well. While family life offers rich, meaningful relationships, our children also need connections beyond the home. Proverbs 27:17 reminds us, "As iron sharpens iron, so one person sharpens another." Children grow best when they are part of a community, surrounded by peers, mentors, and others who share their faith. Their spiritual, social, and emotional development is...

As a homeschool mom, you are pouring into your children every single day—teaching, guiding, nurturing, and discipling them as they grow. This calling is beautiful and rewarding, but it can also be challenging and isolating at times. In the midst of this deeply personal work, it's crucial to remember that you were not designed to walk this journey alone. God has created us for community, and as homeschool moms, we need the strength, wisdom, and fellowship that comes from being connected with others. God’s Design for Community From the very beginning, God has emphasized the importance of community. In Genesis 2:18, God said, "It is not good for man to be alone." Though this was spoken in the context of marriage, it reveals a truth about our need for relationships. As humans, we are wired for connection—not only with God but also with one another. Throughout Scripture, we see the power of community in the body of Christ. Hebrews 10:24-25 encourages believers to "spur on...

One of the biggest challenges of homeschooling is the freedom it offers—while that freedom is a blessing, it also means we have to constantly evaluate if our current approach is working. As homeschooling moms, we pour our hearts into creating a schedule, choosing curriculum, and structuring our days. But sometimes, no matter how much effort we put in, things just aren’t clicking. The good news? It's okay to make changes. In fact, it’s essential. Recognizing When It’s Time to Pivot Homeschooling isn’t one-size-fits-all, and what works for one family may not work for another—or even for the same child at different stages. Maybe your child is struggling with a particular subject, or perhaps the routine that once ran smoothly now feels chaotic. It can be hard to admit that what you planned isn’t working, but it’s even harder to keep going down a path that leads to frustration and burnout. Recognizing when it’s time to pivot is an act of wisdom and grace. It’s not failure—it’s adaptabil...

When it comes to comfort food, few dishes compare to the warmth and heartiness of a chicken cobbler. It’s the perfect blend of savory chicken, creamy sauce, and golden, biscuit-like topping. But what if we told you there’s a way to make this dish even more flavorful and easier? Enter Veg-All and Red Lobster biscuit mix! Using Veg-All canned mixed vegetables and Red Lobster biscuit mix adds a delicious twist while keeping all the convenience busy moms need. Why Veg-All and Red Lobster Biscuit Mix? As a homeschooling mom, quick and easy meals are a blessing. Veg-All takes the hassle out of chopping and prepping vegetables, and Red Lobster biscuit mix brings an extra layer of rich, cheesy flavor to this dish that your family will love. With this duo, you get a one-pan meal that’s both satisfying and time-saving. Recipe Highlights: Perfect for Busy Moms : This dish is simple and quick to prepare, making it ideal for a weeknight meal or a comforting Sunday dinner. Extra Flavor : The Red Lob...

In Part 1 , we explored the importance of understanding biblical rest and the value of community through mom’s nights out. Now, let’s dive into more ways moms can find rest and renewal, both spiritually and practically, by following biblical principles. Ladies' Conferences: Spiritual Rest and Renewal Another way moms can experience biblical rest is by attending ladies' conferences or retreats. These events are designed to pour into women spiritually, offering times of worship, prayer, and teaching that can refresh your soul. A few days away, surrounded by other women seeking God, can be a powerful way to reset and realign your heart with His purposes. Isaiah 40:31 reminds us that “they who wait for the Lord shall renew their strength; they shall mount up with wings like eagles; they shall run and not be weary; they shall walk and not faint” (Isaiah 40:31, ESV). Attending a conference can feel like a mini-Sabbath, a time set apart to focus solely on God and yourself, without the...

Motherhood is a constant outpouring of energy and love, and while it’s deeply rewarding, it can also leave us feeling drained if we don’t take time to replenish. The Bible encourages rest, not just as a way to recover physically, but also to find spiritual renewal. So how can we, as moms, embrace biblical rest in our modern lives? In this two-part series, we’ll explore practical ways to rest in alignment with God’s Word, while building supportive community connections through church, homeschool groups, and other outlets. Understanding Biblical Rest The Bible offers several insights into rest. In Genesis 2:2, God rested after His work of creation, not because He was tired, but to model a rhythm of work and rest: “And on the seventh day God finished his work that he had done, and he rested on the seventh day from all his work that he had done” (Genesis 2:2, ESV). In Matthew 11:28-30, Jesus invites the weary to come to Him for rest, offering a kind of spiritual refreshment that surpasses ...

As mothers, we often find ourselves balancing an endless list of tasks. From caring for our children to managing the household, supporting our families, and perhaps even working outside the home, we juggle it all. But in the midst of our busy lives, it's easy to overlook one essential need: rest. Many of us feel guilty or lazy when we take time for ourselves, but rest is not only necessary—it's part of God's design. Why Moms Need to Rest 1. We Aren't Superhuman Motherhood is a beautiful but exhausting journey. It can feel like you're expected to do it all—often without a break. But our bodies and minds have limits, and if we push ourselves too hard, we risk burnout. Rest allows us to recharge, both physically and mentally, so that we can be present for our families. 2. Resting Strengthens Relationships When we are well-rested, we are better equipped to nurture our relationships—with our children, spouse, and even ourselves. Exhaustion can make us short-tempered or...

In the last post, we talked about how God equips us for homeschooling and how you’re already your child’s first teacher. Today, let’s continue this conversation by addressing some common fears, leaning into grace, and trusting in God’s perfect plan. Grace, Not Perfection One of the greatest fears moms have when they begin homeschooling is the fear of imperfection. Will I mess up? What if my children fall behind? What if I don’t know enough? Here’s the truth: You don’t have to be perfect. God calls us to rely on His strength, not our own. The Gospel is a story of grace, and that grace is available to us every single day in our homeschooling journey. The apostle Paul reminds us: "But He said to me, ‘My grace is sufficient for you, for my power is made perfect in weakness.’" — 2 Corinthians 12:9 There will be days when things don’t go according to plan—when the kids are restless, the math lesson goes off the rails, or you feel drained. That’s okay. God’s grace fills in the gaps...

If you're a mom who's feeling the call to homeschool for the first time, you might be feeling a bit overwhelmed. Maybe you’re asking yourself, “Am I qualified for this? Will I be able to teach my children well? How can I balance everything?” These questions are normal, and many moms have been exactly where you are now. But here's the good news: You can homeschool your children. In fact, you were made for this! With God’s grace and guidance, homeschooling can become one of the most rewarding journeys you’ll ever embark on as a mother. God Equips Us for Every Good Work When God calls us to do something new, He never leaves us to do it alone. Scripture reassures us that He equips us for every task He lays before us: "And God is able to bless you abundantly, so that in all things at all times, having all that you need, you will abound in every good work." — 2 Corinthians 9:8 Homeschooling might feel like a monumental task, but remember that it’s one of the “good work...

Fall is the perfect season to bake up something cozy, fragrant, and absolutely delicious. If you're planning a gathering or simply want to bake in bulk for family, friends, or a big group, these pumpkin banana muffins are a fantastic choice. They’re a lovely blend of fall flavors—pumpkin and spice—mixed with the natural sweetness of ripe bananas. Bonus? This recipe makes a ton of muffins! Whether you're prepping for a bake sale, brunch with friends, or just stocking up for the week, this recipe will have you covered. Why You’ll Love These Muffins Big Batch Recipe: This recipe makes about 48 muffins , depending on the size of your muffin tins. Perfect for feeding a crowd! Flexible & Adaptable: You can easily adjust the sweetness, add mix-ins like chocolate chips or nuts, and even make them dairy-free or gluten-free with simple swaps. Moist & Flavorful: Thanks to the pumpkin and banana, these muffins stay incredibly moist without needing too much oil or butter. One-Bow...

Celebrating 13 Years: A Simple Anniversary at Home This week, my husband and I celebrated our 13th anniversary—a milestone that felt both special and surprisingly simple. In a world that often emphasizes grand gestures and extravagant celebrations, we found joy in the quiet moments shared together at home. A Cozy Dinner on the Couch Instead of going out to a fancy restaurant, we decided to create our own cozy dining experience right on the couch. We prepared our favorite meal, one that holds memories of past celebrations, and set the stage with some soft lighting and comfortable blankets.  Eating dinner together on the couch felt intimate and relaxed, allowing us to enjoy each other’s company without the distractions of the outside world. There’s something special about sharing a meal in a familiar space, where every bite is accompanied by laughter and meaningful conversation. A Favorite Show After dinner, we settled in to watch a favorite show that we both adore. It was the perfec...

Embrace Fall with a Cozy Simmering Potpourri Recipe As the leaves turn vibrant shades of orange and gold, there’s nothing quite like filling your home with the warm, inviting scents of fall. This simple simmering potpourri recipe not only creates an aromatic ambiance but also brings a sense of comfort that encapsulates the essence of the season.  Ingredients: - 1 apple (sliced) - 1 to 2 oranges (sliced) - 1 cinnamon stick - A splash of vanilla extract - 4–6 whole cloves - Water Instructions: 1. **Prepare Your Ingredients**: Begin by slicing the apple and oranges. The combination of their fresh scents will create a delightful base for your potpourri. 2. **Combine in a Pot**: In a medium saucepan, add the sliced apple and oranges. Toss in the cinnamon stick, cloves, and a generous splash of vanilla extract.  3. **Add Water**: Fill the pot with enough water to cover the ingredients, about halfway full.  4. **Simmer on the Stove**: Place the pot on the stove over low heat. Al...

Why Having Dishes in the Sink is More Important Than You Think When you walk into a kitchen and see dishes piled high in the sink, you might think, “What a mess!” However, there’s more to this scene than meets the eye. Having dishes in the sink can serve several important functions in our daily lives, especially when viewed through the lens of the Gospel. 1. **A Reflection of Real Life** Firstly, dishes in the sink are a testament to life being lived. They represent moments of connection, creativity, and sustenance—much like the communal meals shared in Scripture. Jesus often broke bread with others, illustrating the importance of fellowship. Embracing the clutter in our own lives can remind us that our homes are spaces of activity and warmth, not just perfection. 2. **Encouraging Mindfulness** Seeing dishes in the sink can serve as a prompt for mindfulness. Instead of immediately rushing to clean, take a moment to reflect on the blessings that led to those dishes. Each plate and utens...