Ministry of Mothering

  As moms, especially homeschool moms, we tend to shoulder a lot. Whether it’s managing the day-to-day tasks, teaching lessons, or meeting everyone’s needs, the weight of motherhood can feel overwhelming—especially when your children are young. But let me tell you about a lesson I recently learned:  asking for help isn’t just about lightening your own load; it’s a blessing to others too. A sweet older lady in our church recently volunteered to watch our four girls. At first, I struggled with the idea of letting her help. I thought,  She’s already done her season of raising kids—why should I add to her plate?  But when I finally accepted her kind offer, her response moved me to tears. She told me how much she loves spending time with the girls, especially because she knows none of their grandparents live nearby. Watching them is her way of pouring into our family, and it fills her heart with joy. I thought I was burdening her, but in reality, she saw it as a ministry....

  When my sister, who has Hashimoto’s, came to visit over Christmas break, I knew I wanted to make something special for our ladies' brunch. Since she follows a gluten-free and dairy-free diet, I decided to create a breakfast casserole that would be hearty, flavorful, and festive enough for the season—without sacrificing her dietary needs. This recipe turned out to be a hit! Even the family members without dietary restrictions loved it, and it was so simple to make that it left me with plenty of time to enjoy our morning together. If you’re hosting a Christmas brunch or just looking for a crowd-pleasing recipe, this Gluten-Free & Dairy-Free Sausage and Veggie Breakfast Casserole is a perfect choice. It’s packed with protein, colorful veggies, and warm, comforting flavors that feel just right for the holidays. The Recipe Ingredients: 1 lb ground breakfast sausage (check for gluten-free) 1 medium onion, diced 1 red bell pepper, diced 1 green bell pepper, diced 2 cups baby spinach...

  When life gets busy, having a go-to dinner recipe can save the day! This Pork Sausage and Shells recipe is hearty, comforting, and easy to make with pantry staples. It's packed with flavor thanks to a creamy tomato sauce and the perfect blend of Italian spices. Whether you're feeding a hungry family or prepping for leftovers, this dish is a winner! Ingredients You’ll Need: Medium pasta shells Ground pork sausage Onion and garlic for flavor Canned diced tomatoes and cream for the sauce Parmesan and mozzarella cheese Italian seasoning What’s in Italian Seasoning? If you’ve ever wondered what gives Italian dishes their signature taste, it’s often this blend! Italian seasoning typically includes basil, oregano, rosemary, thyme, and marjoram. Sometimes, it also features sage, parsley, or red pepper flakes for a little kick. Don’t have Italian seasoning on hand? No problem! Mix these dried herbs together and you’re good to go. Why This Recipe Works: Kid-Friendly : The creamy sauce ...

 **Blog Post: Turning Leftovers into a Cozy Crockpot Dinner**   When my husband came home with leftovers from his work lunch—a fully stocked baked potato bar—I knew exactly what to do! Instead of letting the fixings sit in the fridge, I threw them into the crockpot and turned them into a delicious and hearty Loaded Baked Potato Soup. It was perfect for a cold winter day and so easy to prepare, especially for a busy homeschool mom like me.   **How to Make Loaded Baked Potato Soup from Leftovers:**   1. **Ingredients:** Gather the leftover baked potatoes, cheese, bacon bits, sour cream, green onions, and any other toppings from the baked potato bar.   2. **Base:** Peel and chop the baked potatoes into chunks. Add them to your crockpot with 4-6 cups of chicken broth, depending on how thick you like your soup.   3. **Flavor:** Stir in about 1 cup of sour cream (or cream cheese) for a creamy base. Add shredded cheese, bacon, and any spices you like, such as garl...

 ### **Easy Ground Beef Stir Fry Recipe: A Family Favorite**   If you’re like me, you love a quick and easy dinner that doesn’t skimp on flavor. This **Ground Beef Stir Fry with Vegetables** is a go-to meal in our house, and it’s perfect for busy weeknights. Made with simple ingredients you probably already have on hand, it’s a wholesome, delicious dish your whole family will love.   Whether you're serving it over steamed rice, cauliflower rice, or noodles, this stir fry is endlessly versatile. Plus, it’s ready in under 30 minutes—because we all know moms need meals that are fast and satisfying!   --- ### **Why You’ll Love This Stir Fry**   - **Quick & Easy:** Ready in 30 minutes or less.   - **Healthy:** Packed with protein and veggies.   - **Customizable:** Swap in your favorite vegetables or make it spicier!   - **Budget-Friendly:** Uses ground beef and frozen veggies for maximum convenience.   --- ### **Ingredients**   - 1 lb gro...

 **Progress Over Perfection: A Charlotte Mason Approach to Motherhood**   As mothers, we often find ourselves striving for perfection—in our homes, in our homeschool routines, and even in our relationships with our children. But what if the goal wasn't perfection at all? Charlotte Mason, a pioneer in homeschooling philosophy, emphasized the importance of steady progress over unattainable perfection. This approach resonates deeply with me as a homeschooling mom navigating the beautiful chaos of life.   ### The Beauty of Progress   Charlotte Mason believed education is “an atmosphere, a discipline, and a life.” This idea encourages us to create an environment where growth is celebrated, mistakes are seen as opportunities, and steady progress is the goal. In the same way, motherhood isn't about having a picture-perfect home or flawlessly executed lesson plans. It's about showing up every day, making adjustments when things go wrong, and cherishing the small victories. ...

Thanksgiving and Easter are two of the most special holidays in our home. They're filled with faith, family, and, of course, food! One dish that always makes an appearance on our holiday table is our beloved oven-baked cranberry sauce. Its vibrant color, sweet-tart flavor, and simplicity make it a must-have alongside turkey at Thanksgiving and ham at Easter. This recipe is a favorite for its ease and versatility. Just a few ingredients, one dish, and a little oven time are all you need to create a side dish that will have everyone asking for seconds. The Recipe: Oven-Baked Cranberry Sauce Ingredients: 12 oz fresh cranberries (about 3 cups) 1 cup sugar (adjust for taste) 1 cup orange juice (or water) 1 tsp orange zest (optional) Pinch of salt Optional: 1/2 tsp cinnamon or nutmeg, 1/4 cup chopped pecans, or 1/4 cup dried fruits (raisins or chopped dates) Instructions: Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). In a 9x13-inch baking dish, combine cranberries, sugar, orange juice, orange zest...

 As moms, we’re living out a calling that’s both beautiful and challenging. Motherhood isn’t just something we do; it’s a ministry—a divine appointment to nurture, guide, and love. That’s why I created the Motherhood Is My Ministry hoodie as a reminder of the incredible work God has entrusted us with. Why You’ll Love This Hoodie This isn’t just a hoodie; it’s a statement of purpose. It’s a declaration that the long days, messy kitchens, and endless to-do lists are part of something far greater than we can see right now. Comfortable and Stylish: Made with soft, high-quality fabric, this hoodie is perfect for chilly homeschool mornings, coffee dates with friends, or just relaxing at home. Faith-Focused Design: The bold yet simple “Motherhood Is My Ministry” message serves as a daily reminder of your God-given role. Encouragement On the Go: Wear it to spark conversations and inspire other moms in your community. A Perfect Gift for Moms Whether you’re shopping for yourself or a fri...

Have you ever walked into someone else’s home and immediately felt the pang of comparison? Maybe it was the spotless countertops, the perfectly fluffed pillows, or the artwork hung with precision. I used to let those moments define my feelings about my own home. I'd focus on the dishes in the sink, the toys scattered on the floor, and the pile of laundry that never seemed to shrink. But over time, I’ve realized something liberating: my house is not perfect, and that’s our normal. Redefining "Normal" Our house tells the story of our lives. The kitchen counter is a mix of school books, art supplies, and snacks because we’re a homeschooling family. The living room often has more Lego pieces than it does free space, but it’s also where my kids' creativity flourishes. Sure, there are scuffs on the walls and furniture that doesn’t match a Pinterest board, but every imperfection reflects the life we’re living right now—one that is full of love, learning, and connection. Acce...

 Every family has its cherished recipes, and pineapple stuffing is one that my husband’s family has passed down for generations. The sweet and savory balance of this dish makes it a standout at every holiday gathering. Whether it’s Thanksgiving, Christmas, or an Easter brunch, this recipe always has a place at our table, bringing warmth, nostalgia, and a little tropical twist to traditional meals. It’s easy to see why this dish has stood the test of time. With just a few ingredients—bread, pineapple, and pantry staples—you can create something magical that feels like a warm hug on a plate. Pineapple Stuffing Recipe Ingredients: 1 (20 oz) can pineapple chunks, drained (reserve 2-3 tablespoons of juice) 5 cups white bread, cubed (day-old bread works best) ½ cup (1 stick) unsalted butter, melted ½ cup granulated sugar 3 large eggs 1 teaspoon vanilla extract ¼ teaspoon ground cinnamon (optional) Instructions: Preheat Oven: Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease a 9x13-inch baking ...

  Comfort food at its finest, slow-cooked to perfection in your favorite Dutch oven. When the days grow cooler, and life gets busy, there's nothing better than having a comforting meal ready to nourish your family. This Creamy Bacon Corn Chowder is everything you love about comfort food: rich, hearty, and bursting with flavor. It's made with simple ingredients, but the slow cooking method in a Pioneer Woman Dutch oven takes it to the next level. Whether you're looking for a dish to warm up a weeknight dinner or serve a crowd, this chowder is guaranteed to be a hit. Packed with crispy bacon, fresh celery, and wholesome vegetables, it's a meal that will have everyone going back for seconds. Why You'll Love This Recipe Simple Ingredients : Pantry staples like canned potatoes, corn, and Better Than Bouillon come together effortlessly. Big Flavor : The addition of bacon, paprika, and thyme creates a cozy, smoky taste. Dutch Oven Magic : Slow cooking in a Dutch oven ensur...

  When we decided to homeschool, I knew I wanted a curriculum that could provide both structure and flexibility. After researching various options, I chose the Bob Jones Press homeschool curriculum and the Homeschool Hub. Now, after eight years of using it with three of my four children, from preschool through 6th grade, I can confidently say it has been the perfect fit for our family. Here’s why. Flexibility and a Solid Foundation One of the greatest strengths of the Bob Jones Press curriculum is its flexibility. I use it as a springboard for learning, meaning that it provides a strong foundation in core subjects, but doesn’t confine us to a rigid schedule. This approach has allowed us to cover the basics and then spend more time diving deeper into topics my kids find fascinating. With this curriculum, my daughters have the freedom to explore subjects they’re genuinely curious about while building essential skills. A Unique Learning Experience with Engaging Video Lessons One featu...

As busy moms, we're always on the lookout for dinner ideas that are simple, delicious, and packed with flavor. This creamy Andouille sausage and penne pasta recipe ticks all the boxes. Made right in the crockpot, it’s a comforting meal with a hint of spice, perfect for cool evenings and easy enough to whip up on those days when time feels limited. Why Crockpot Dinners Work for Busy Moms Let’s face it—homeschooling, running errands, and managing all the little details of the day mean that some nights, we just don’t have time for elaborate meal prep. That’s where the beauty of crockpot dinners comes in. You can toss the ingredients in earlier in the day, let the slow cooker do the work, and come back to a warm, satisfying meal when you’re ready to gather the family around the table. This recipe combines creamy, rich sauce with hearty penne pasta and smoky andouille sausage, creating a filling meal that everyone will love. Plus, with only a handful of ingredients, it’s a great recipe ...

When your kids have just gotten expanders, the adjustment period can be tough—not only because of the discomfort but also due to the need to find softer foods that still provide essential nutrients. Smoothies are a lifesaver in times like these, especially when they’re packed with protein to help keep little ones full and energized. I recently created this Chocolate Cottage Cheese Smoothie recipe to ensure my children still get the protein they need, especially while they’re recovering and might not be up to chewing tougher foods. This smoothie is creamy, chocolatey, and so delicious, they’ll forget it’s good for them! Why Cottage Cheese? Cottage cheese might not be the first ingredient that comes to mind for a smoothie, but it’s actually perfect for a high-protein, creamy texture. Cottage cheese blends well, offering a good amount of protein without overpowering the smoothie with too much dairy flavor. Combined with almond milk and chocolate protein powder, this smoothie tastes more ...

As a homeschooling mom, it can sometimes feel like you’re juggling two full-time jobs—homeschooling your children and keeping your home running smoothly. Finding balance between these two important roles can be challenging, but with a few simple strategies, you can create a routine that allows you to thrive in both areas. Here are some tips to help you balance homemaking and homeschooling: 1. Establish a Routine Creating a daily or weekly routine is essential. Block out time for homeschooling, housework, and rest. A solid routine helps keep the day organized and ensures that nothing is left undone. Include your kids in household chores—this not only lightens your load but also teaches them responsibility. 2. Simplify Meals Meal planning is a lifesaver when balancing homemaking and homeschooling. Plan simple, nutritious meals in advance, and consider prepping ingredients on weekends. Slow cookers and one-pot meals can be your best friend on busy homeschool days. 3. Combine Chores with L...

As moms, we’re always on the lookout for meals that are quick, kid-approved, and don’t leave us with a sink full of dishes. Between homeschooling, playdates, and the endless to-do list, finding the time to prepare a homemade meal can feel like a juggling act. That’s why I love this one-pot spaghetti and meatballs recipe—it’s fast, uses pre-made frozen meatballs, and the best part? It all cooks in one pot! This recipe is perfect for busy nights when you need something hearty and delicious but don’t want to spend too much time in the kitchen. Plus, it’s a meal your kids will love! (Ask me how I know!)  Why One-Pot Meals Make Life Easier One-pot meals are a mom’s secret weapon. Minimal prep, fewer dishes, and maximum flavor—that’s a win! With everything cooked together in one pot, you can enjoy more time with your kids and less time cleaning up. Now, let’s get to the easy, time-saving recipe! One-Pot Spaghetti and Meatballs Recipe (with Frozen Meatballs) Ingredients: 1 bag (about 16 o...