I'm seeing so many moms looking for better alternatives for the elf on a shelf gig and rightfully so. Why do we need little hooligans showing our kids that it's ok to cause mischief and play pranks on people? There's enough of that in our world today. Not to mention the MESS!
About 4 years ago I found this little shepherd doll from Shepherd's Treasure, which started this tradition for us where he arrives under our Christmas tree on the first day of Advent and leaves my kids special notes with a scripture theme, daily devotions, and sometimes little gifts, activities, or treats. They talk about him all year long. Seeing the joy he brings them in such a wholesome way definitely has been worth the trouble.Unfortunately, I didn't have a great experience with the company so stopped using their stuff. I typically just find a Bible verse that is relevant to what's happening in our life, or one of my favorites, and put it on a card. Sometimes it's just a hand-written note, depending on how organized and creative I am. The kids don't seem to care if it's written on a sticky note or a cute print-out. They mostly enjoy searching for him each morning to see what he has to say. So, don't over think this. Less is more. I have seen this cute Shepherd on a Search set on Amazon that would give you a good starting point.
I am finally organized enough in life to share Shep's adventures. I have a start to designing little cards (an upgrade from the sticky notes I used last year 
) and I will be posting them HERE on my page, plus HERE is a free downloadable of what I have so far, for you to print and use or just use as inspiration. I will continue adding to this so save the link somewhere. Or follow me as I'll be posting it from time to time.
) and I will be posting them HERE on my page, plus HERE is a free downloadable of what I have so far, for you to print and use or just use as inspiration. I will continue adding to this so save the link somewhere. Or follow me as I'll be posting it from time to time. If you don't have a shepherd doll, you can easily substitute another stuffy like a lamb or these adorable plush Mary and Jesus dolls, or even...gasp.....an elf.... and customize your cards accordingly.
Here are a few ideas I've done with our shepherd.
I have used this "never stop praying" card a few times. Each time I have gifted a little prayer book. The one the kids use the most is "Power of a Praying Kid".
This Marvel Action Bible has also been a great investment. It's so rewarding to see my kids grab it off the book shelf and sit together while one reads to the others. I even see our Youth Faith Formation kids grab it off the shelf at church and go sit in the chapel with it. There's just something about it that grabs their attention. It's very well done.
I often use any toys or things the kids have left out like this Color the Rosary book that has been another great tool for enriching our prayer life.
As you can see, we have fun with our Shep, and I love the conversations that have happened and the focus on faith he brings to us during a time of year when it's easy to get caught up in worldly things and stressed out. Keep it simple. Use what you have. And never hesitate to ask God for inspiration (or Pinterest). This will be something my kids will always remember about Christmas, and it is so much more fruitful than a mischievous elf.
I hope you have a blessed Advent season as we prepare to celebrate the birth of our Savior Jesus Christ. 
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This easy roasted lamb recipe will be the most delicious mutton you will ever have. It's tender, moist, and delicious flavor will have you feeling like a top chef. But, the ease of making this will fit into any busy homesteading mom's day.
I’ll never forget the moans of delight that came from my son after every bite he took of this roasted lamb meal the first time I made it. This recipe comes from a friend of mine from the Middle East where they eat mutton like we Americans eat beef. So when I wanted to master the mutton, my Middle Eastern friend was definitely the person to ask. This lamb recipe took our mutton experience from so-so, to a top 5 favorite, and this is how it's done....
What You’ll Need:
Lamb rump roast or loins
Garlic
Onion
Kosher salt
Kosher salt
Black pepper
Water
Apple cider vinegar
Vegetables of choice
Make it:
- Prepare the oven bag as directed on package instructions. Place the bag on a trivet/wire rack inside the roasting pan.
- Cut tiny slits in the meat every few inches and stick slices of garlic cloves in them.
- Mix together a rub of 1 Tablespoon Kosher salt, 1 teaspoon Baharat spice, ½ teaspoon black pepper. Rub all over the meat.
- Place the seasoned meat inside the oven bag and add 1 cup water, 1 chunked onion, ½ cup apple cider vinegar^, any vegetables you wish to roast.
- Close up the bag and tie according to package instructions, making the steam vents as directed for the oven bag. I like to keep the bag snug around the meat so the meat sits in the juices.
- With the bag of seasoned meat and veggies placed on the trivet inside the roasting pan, cover and cook at 320⁰F for 4 hours or until meat falls apart with a fork.
- When the meat is cooked, poke a hole in the bottom of the bag to drain the juices into a measuring cup. Place in fridge to allow fat to solidify for easy removal. This liquid can be used to make a gravy or au jus sauce, whichever you prefer.
- Serve the lamb with vegetables over rice, topped with the gravy or au jus.
^ apple cider vinegar is optional, but it adds a noticeable depth to the flavor. Homemade apple scrap vinegar also works great and is preferred by us.
Special note: you're probably wondering if the Baharat spice is worth buying because, unless you're from the Middle East, you won't already have it in your spice cabinet. My answer to this is YES! Get it! It quickly became a pantry staple that I use on everything, especially meats and soups. It has a hint of cumin, but that is the only particular spice I can make out. It is a unique blend of warm, comforting, savory spices. It will not disappoint. PROMISE.
To Make Gravy:
In a stainless-steel pot make a roux by melting 2 tablespoons butter. Add 2 Tablespoons flour. Mix well into a paste and let cook a minute or two. You’ll then add 2 cups liquid*. Whisk until there are no lumps. Keep whisking until the gravy thickens to your liking. Remove from heat. The gravy should set a little more as it cools.
*You’ll need to taste the broth from the roast for saltiness and adjust the broth to water ratio to get the right flavor balance you’re looking for in 2 cups of water/broth liquid.
Enjoy the meat and vegetables served over white rice with gravy or au jus.
There you have it! A super simple, extremely tender, moist, and delicious lamb recipe the whole family will enjoy.
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This oatmeal pumpkin pie bar has a delicious granola crust, pumpkin pie filling, and brown sugar crumble. The whole family is sure to love it. A great way to use up those garden pumpkins.
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It’s somewhere around 8:00 at night, we get home from taking our kids trick-or-treating around town. After going through and inspecting all their candy, we let them each pick out one piece to enjoy before getting ready and settle down for bed. They had also had a few pieces earlier in the evening.
Instead of settling in for a quiet family movie night, we had wild and crazy, somewhat delusional children. They were obviously feeling the effects of the sugar rush. We patiently let them run their energy off before attempting to put them to bed, and it ended up being quite a late night before they finally settled down and crashed.
Is this to be the norm for the next several months as we go through the upcoming holiday season of candy, treats, and desserts? Because on top of the hyperness, my son, who is almost 4, turns into an alter ego that is defiant and antagonizing when he gets too much sugar. His usual sweet hearted self goes somewhere else.
So what’s a mom to do besides deprive her children of the fun festivities and sweet treats, or worse, tolerate the crazy and sometimes naughty behavior for the entire winter putting her sanity at risk? Fight back with these savvy tips!
First off, moderation is key. However, even just one piece of candy will yield noticeable personality changes in my son. So, right or wrong, here’s what I do to maintain sanity and support the health in my family.
1. The kids are only allowed to have a treat after eating healthy food first. My hopes are to mix the refined sugar with good fiber and protein to slow down the rate of absorption of the refined sugar entering the bloodstream so there is not a flood of energy hitting the blood and brain all at once. Plus, if I let them have candy between meals, they tend to not want to eat the good food during mealtime. I’m sure you can relate.
2. Ningxia Red™ juice is a staple in our home anyway, but when there is candy or other sweet treats in the house, I make sure the kids (and myself) get EXTRA Ningxia Red™ to help support normal blood sugar levels and give us the cell protection and immune support of the high antioxidant contents of the drink. Plus, I notice when they drink the Ningxia Red™, they aren’t as crazy and demanding for the candy. It seems to curb the cravings.
Now, if you are familiar with Ningxia Red™, you may be confused as to why I would give it to my kids to control their energy, as Ningxia Red™ itself is energizing. But there’s a difference between nutritional energy and sugar or caffeine stimulant energy. The nutritional energy that comes from Ningxia Red™ doesn’t create the spike-and-crash effect. It doesn’t create hyperactivity and craziness that can cause emotional overwhelms, meltdowns, and naughtiness in kids that sugar does. It is a healthy, feel-good energy that seems to be better understood and tolerated by my kids. My daughter who is almost 2 can drink an 8oz bottle of water with 1 oz of Ningxia Red™ in it to fall asleep for her nap or bedtime and have no troubles sleeping. It’s balanced nutrition. Not a stimulant. Since I mix it with water, it also contributes to their water intake for the day, whereas if I were to give them sugary juice from the store, it would take away from their water intake, causing dehydration and add to the sugar rush. Plus, sugar is inflammatory. Ningxia Red's powerful antioxidants help flush inflammation from the body. Low-level inflammation is what leaves us feeling old before our time.
3. MightyVites™ Chewables are another part of our daily routine, but when there is candy in the house, it can save me a lot of hassle in arguing. As I mentioned in #1, I limit their candy intake to being a dessert after good food. But when they see their buckets on the counter, they want something out of it. So instead of always having to tell them “no”, I can sometimes give them a MightyVite™ instead. They’re happy because MightyVites™ taste so good the kids think they’re candy. I’m happy because they are getting a super healthy multivitamin that contains no dyes, refined sugar, or artificial sweeteners, and gives them the nutritional equivalent of eating WAY more fruits and vegetables than I’ll ever get them to eat in a month let alone a day. MightyVites™ also contains NO synthetic vitamins, no fillers, and no aspartame like the store brands do. They are made with real, whole-food ingredients that come with the same Seed-to-Seal® promise of quality and purity that Young Living’s essential oils do. What this means for me as a mom is peace of mind in knowing my kids are actually absorbing and utilizing the nutrition that is in their multivitamin and I’m not just wasting my money on the commercial multivitamin concept that get flushed down the toilet.
4. Life 9™ and The Red Drink: The extra sugar consumption can leave the immune system compromised and also cause upset tummies and yeast overgrowth. A good probiotic can promote healthy gut flora, which will support these issues. Life 9™ comes in a capsule. It is easy enough for me to take a capsule before bed, but my kids are too small to swallow capsules. So here’s what I do for them; I have a cocktail in my fridge we call “red drink”. We drink this instead of sugar laden juices and soft drinks. I take 1 capsule of Life9™ and break it open, then sprinkle it into 2 cups of red drink, splitting it equally between the 2 kids. I keep the juice amount small to ensure the kids drink it all right away. Now, this isn’t the most effective way to take Life9™, as you will have more die-off rate, but it will work well enough for those who cannot swallow capsules. With the 17 billion live active cultures and 9 Super strains Young Living uses, there will be less die-off than store brands which are mostly dead-on-arrival anyway.
What is this red drink?
I take an empty Ningxia Red™ bottle (25 oz). I add 2-4 oz of Ningxia Red™ juice, 3-4 drops of Lime Vitality™ essential oil, 2 tsp of Sulfurzyme™ POWDER, then top the bottle off with water. We drink this all throughout our day. It has the Ningxia Red™ juice we need for the reasons explained above and the added benefits and flavor of the Lime Vitality™ essential oil, but the real secret is in the Sulfurzyme™ Powder. The Sulfurzyme™ powder contains nutritional sulfur in the form of MSM, which supports a whole boat load of necessary bodily functions that are crucial to our health, but I explain all that HERE because there’s a lot to it. Sulfurzyme™ Powder also contains Ningxia Wolfberry powder for the same antioxidant support that the Ningxia Red™ juice offers, so even more immune support, blood sugar balance, and antioxidant protection. The Sulfurzyme™ in powder form also has PREbiotics which are natural essential sugars that feed the probiotic or healthy gut flora. So refined sugar found in candy and sweets feeds BAD bacteria and yeast. Unrefined sugars found in nature feed the GOOD bacteria, promoting healthy energy levels, strong immune systems, and happy tummies. That sounds like a win to this mom!
5. KidScents™ Toothpaste is an all-natural toothpaste to promote healthy oral hygiene. Don’t let all the candy rot your kids’ teeth! We try to brush our teeth after we eat candy, but it is a non-negotiable before bedtime and in the mornings. Why KidScents toothpaste from Young Living? Why not a toothpaste that comes recommended by most dentists? Well, read your labels to answer that question. As a mom, I’m not impressed with seeing warning labels that say, “call poison control if more than a pea-sized amount is ingested” on a product my 2 and 4 year old children are essentially eating off their tooth brushes. It is just astonishing to me that this is even considered okay. I prefer for my toothpaste to be effective at keeping our mouths healthy and clean, but not at the expense of other areas of our health. Young Living offers effective products without the compromise. I don’t have to keep my toothpastes locked away out of my kids’ reach for fear of them eating the whole tube. I don’t have to worry about them swallowing it. The reality of it is, even if the toothpaste doesn’t get swallowed, anything that goes in the mouth gets directly absorbed into the bloodstream, so they don’t have to even eat it to get the dangerous effects of the poisons that are in store brand toothpastes. It’s just not worth it when there is such a simple solution right at our fingertips. And my kids love the flavor, so I don’t have to fight with them to get them to brush. Another win.
6. If tummy troubles do occur despite my best efforts, Young Living offers several natural, risk-free options. My first go-to is always an essential oil blend called, DiGize™. It doesn’t smell the best unless you like black licorice, but it works on my family every time. I have it diluted in a roller for easy application. I just rub it on the tummy starting on the lower right side, massage in clockwise circles moving up, across, and down, ending in the lower left quadrant. You are actually following the ascending colon, transverse colon, then descending colon. Or, I hand the roller of oil to my kiddo and say have at it, allowing them to smear the oil everywhere and be empowered and in control of their own health with no worries. Other oily options to sooth a sugar tummy can be used in the same fashion include: Aroma Ease, which smells more spearminty and the KidScents® TummyGize™ which comes prediluted and ready to use for children. There are other options, but these are my favorites.
7. And the last tool in my box is outside time. Yes, SEND THEM OUTSIDE! Let them be kids and burn off that energy the way they were meant to. Kids’ physical and mental development depends on their ability to move. We have the luxury of living on a farm where they have lots of room to run and play carefree. But you can always take them to a park or go for a walk or bike ride, or just play catch with them. Kids are designed to move, and nothing beats fresh air for tuckering out an overactive kiddo.
I hope this gives you some ways to regain control of your kiddos and keep them healthy during these upcoming holiday months. But please keep in mind, moderation is really the key. Our body takes a huge hit from the sugars and dyes that are in candy. So be kind to it by giving it the tools it needs to fight back.
Be Well,
Jackie
BTW - For more tips to keep your family healthy by nature, join my community of other families living the savvy life HERE.
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Had I known making yogurt at home was this easy, I would have started it years ago. Not-to-mention how extraordinarily delicious it is and economical. Think of your favorite high-end organic brand. That’s how this homemade yogurt turns out for me every time.
There are lots of different ways people will tell you to make yogurt. I find this way to be the easiest way to make yogurt at home, and it has always turned out great for me. (knock on wood) I’ve never had it fail yet. I make it almost every week when my sheep are in milk. It seems to keep a long time. The oldest jar I’ve found in the fridge was one month old and still fresh as ever. I have even frozen some short-term. Just thaw it slowly in the fridge.
Here’s what you’ll need For Plain Yogurt:
- Instant Pot with yogurt function
- Half gallon of milk
- 2 Tbsp culture (see notes)
1. In the clean Instant Pot liner add some of the milk and whisk in the culture so there are no lumps, then add the remaining milk. Whisking well again. If you leave lumps, you will have lumpy yogurt.
2. Cover with a glass lid or the IP lid with seal removed.
3. Hit “yogurt” button, then make sure the “normal” setting is selected.
4. Set the timer for 20 hours.
5. Once the IP display reads YOGT your yogurt is done. You can either jar it up or put it in the fridge to set up a bit then jar it. If you wish it to be thicker you can hang it in a nut milk or jelly strainer bag tied to the handle of a pitcher to strain off the whey. The longer it hangs, the thicker it will get. I find pint mason jars to be the best storage container for us.
Here’s what you’ll need For Vanilla Yogurt:
- Instant Pot with yogurt function
- Half gallon of milk
- 2 Tbsp culture (see notes)
- 1 can sweetened condensed milk
- 2 teaspoons vanilla extract
- In the clean Instant Pot liner add some of the milk and whisk in the culture so there are no lumps, then add the sweetened condensed milk and vanilla, whisking until smooth. Then add the remaining milk. Whisking well again. If you leave lumps, you will have lumpy yogurt.
- Cover with a glass lid or the IP lid with seal removed.
- Hit “yogurt” button, then make sure the “normal” setting is selected.
- Set the timer for 20 hours.
- Once the timer is done and your IP display reads YOGT your yogurt is done. You can either jar it up or put it in the fridge to set up a bit then jar it when you have time. If you wish it to be thicker you can hang it in a sterilized dish towel to strain off the whey. The longer it hangs, the thicker it will get. I find pint mason jars to be the best storage container for us. See how I make sour cream to see my set-up for hanging.
NOTES:
Heating Milk: I do not heat the milk and let it cool as most people will for a few reasons; 1. It destroys the benefits of using raw milk, 2. It’s an extra step that isn’t necessary. My yogurt turns out perfectly every time without heating and cooling the milk, 3. I don’t have time to sit and babysit slowly heating milk to temp and then wait for it to cool down to just the right temperature again. I’ve got other things to do.
Culture: Any plain yogurt with live active cultures should work. I have great luck with Chobani Plain Greek yogurt or I use 2 Tablespoons of my own plain yogurt if I have some. Fresh is best, but I haven’t had a problem with using weeks old culture. I also don’t measure a perfect Tablespoon. I just scoop and dump.
The incubation time can be adjusted anywhere from 8-36 hours. The flavor and thickness will vary depending on the incubation time and the nature of your milk. Don’t be afraid to play around with this. If you find yourself a victim of poor planning like I often do, and your yogurt will finish in the middle of the night or while you’re away, etc, simply set the timer so it continues to incubate until you are ready to refrigerate it. However, if you happen to forget it, leaving the raw milk yogurt at room temperature for any amount of time will not make it go “bad” or deem it unsafe. Please do not throw it out if advised to by people who don’t understand the nature of raw milk and home fermenting. In fact, we make a delicious version of cream cheese spread by actually hanging the yogurt at room temperature for a day, add salt and hang another day. Raw milk doesn’t “go bad”. It just changes form or flavor. Taste test it to see what your next step should be. Maybe it wants to be sour cream instead?
Why remove the seal? I’ve only ever used a glass cover that fits my IP, but I’ve heard the seal from the IP lid can harbor odor from other foods that will leech into your yogurt, so if you don’t want last night’s chicken soup flavored yogurt, remove the seal if you’re using the IP cover.
Why “normal” setting? If you hit the yogurt button and you see the “less” setting is lit, hit the yogurt button one more time to get to the “normal” setting. This “less” setting did work for me when I didn’t know any different, but I was told that this is not the right temp for incubating yogurt. I have since used the “normal” setting and it does indeed make better yogurt. The “less” setting is for proofing dough. The “normal” setting is for incubating yogurt. Please don’t throw your yogurt away if you made it on the “less” setting. If it smells like yogurt, and it tastes like yogurt, you made yogurt. Enjoy it. See notes for incubation time.
Flavorings: Aside from the base of sweetened condensed milk and vanilla, add whatever other ingredients you want to make different flavors JUST BEFORE you are ready to eat it. Adding the extra fruits or honey will alter the bacterial environment and shorten the shelf life. We like to add fruit, jams and jellies when we’re in the mood for different flavors. This Daily Greens powder is a SUPER healthy mix-in we love too.
There you have it. The easiest way to make no-fail raw milk yogurt that is the most delicious yogurt you will ever have.
Enjoy!
P.S. Easily turn your plain yogurt into sour cream and cream cheese. See how HERE.
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Jalapeño Poppers
It’s that time of year when I dig up my pepper plants from the garden and bring them inside for the winter. I love doing this because for one, it saves me from having to buy new plants or seeds in spring, and two, many times I get peppers from them in the winter. I only wish I had a giant greenhouse room to have more plants inside.
So what do I do with all those peppers? Most years I will pickle a few jars, but this Jalapeno Popper recipe is another delicious way we use up our peppers. Using Jalapeno for a little kick and bell peppers for the girls who don’t like spicy. You can make these in the Air Fryer or in the Oven.
What you’ll need
- ~12 Jalapeño peppers cut in half, seeds removed (wear gloves when you do this)
- 8 oz cream cheese at room temperature
- 1 cup shredded cheese, cheddar or a blend is what we like
- ½ tsp garlic powder
- ¼ tsp sea salt
- ¼ tsp black pepper (optional)
- 4 slices precooked bacon (optional)
Instructions
- Prep the jalapenos. While wearing rubber gloves, slice the peppers in half, remove the seeds and membranes. The spice is in the membrane, so if you like more spice, leave the membrane in. You can leave the tops on or off. We like them off for faster deposits into the mouth.
- Mix the filling. Mix together the cream cheese, shredded cheese, garlic powder, salt and pepper. I like to use my KitchenAid stand mixer with the beater paddle for this.
- Prep your pan. If using the Air Fryer, line it with these parchment liners for easy cleanup. If using the oven, line a sheet pan with foil or parchment. Nobody has time to be scrubbing baked cheese off pans.
- Fill the Peppers. Fill the pepper halves with the cream cheese filling and top with additional shredded cheese and bacon. Side note: Any filling left over goes really well on top of baked potatoes.
- Bake. If using the Air Fryer, bake at 400⁰F for ~5 minutes until cheese is golden how you like it. For the oven, bake at 400 for 10-15 minutes.
That’s it! Enjoy these delicious Jalapeno poppers as party hors d’oeuvre, appetizers, or a healthy snack.
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The easiest way to use up excess apples is to turn them into homemade apple juice using this hands-off method that your whole family will love.
Read more...This is one of my favorite farm-to-table recipes. Life as a busy homesteading family can often make it feel impossible to eat healthy, balanced meals. Between work, school pick-ups, and sports, the simplest things—like making a nutritious dinner—can seem overwhelming. But what if I told you that a delicious, healthy meal can be prepared in no time? And the kids will love it too? And almost all of the ingredients come right from the homestead?
Enter chicken zucchini bites! This recipe is perfect for those on a paleo or gluten-free diet, or anyone looking for a fast but wholesome meal option. Not only are these little delights packed with flavor, but they also bring the farm-to-table goodness right to your kitchen.
Why You'll Love These Chicken Zucchini Bites
- Healthy and Nutritious: Made from whole food ingredients, these bites are a great source of lean protein and vegetables.
- Quick and Easy: With a prep time of just minutes, this dish fits seamlessly into your busy schedule.
- Kid-Friendly: These bites are a fun finger food that kids love. Serve them with their favorite dips for a meal they're sure to enjoy!
Ingredients You'll Need
- 1 lb whole chicken breast (raw)
- 4-5 chunks zucchini (to equal approximately 2 cups grated)
- 1 green onion (optional)
- 1 Tbsp fresh cilantro (optional)
- 1 clove garlic
- 1 tsp salt
- 1/8 tsp pepper
- 1/2 tsp cumin
Let's Get Cooking!
1. Prepare the Mixture For fast prep I put the whole chicken breasts, zucchini chunks, and all other ingredients directly into my Ninja blender food processor piece. Blend until a nice, grated consistency is achieved. Without this, the chicken needs to be ground and the zucchini and herbs all grated and minced by hand, adding to prep time and labor intensity. My food processor has been a great time saver.
2. Cook Heat a nonstick ceramic frying pan with your choice of oil on medium to medium-low heat. Drop spoonfuls of the mixture into the pan and flatten them into small patties. Fry for about 5 minutes on the first side until they're nicely browned and firm enough to flip. I've used olive oil, butter, and bacon grease. All good.
Once flipped, cook for another 2 minutes or until the second side is also nicely browned.
3. Serve them hot or cold with your favorite dip—guacamole, salsa, or even sweet and sour sauce if you're not sticking strictly to paleo or low carb.
These chicken zucchini bites are incredibly versatile. Toss them over a salad, stuff them into a wrap, or enjoy them solo as a snack or meal. Pair them with some fresh veggies or sweet potato fries to complete the meal.
Final Thoughts
As a busy homesteading family, we understand the demands that come with juggling multiple responsibilities, which is why we love sharing recipes that simplify life and nourish your family. These chicken zucchini bites are more than just a meal; they're a step towards healthier eating habits, all while saving you precious time. I hope this recipe brings ease and deliciousness to your table. Enjoy!
For more farm-to-table recipes straight from the homestead and to connect with other busy homesteading families visit our Facebook community, Home Instead; practical homesteading tips, tricks, and recipes for busy families.
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This is an old family recipe that originally had a biscuit mix crust but I replaced the biscuit crust with this delicious zucchini or cauliflower crust and it is a match made in heaven. The sour cream egg filling is divine! A moist egg bake with a hint of creaminess and delicious pop of garlic will have your taste buds dancing. The fact that it is low carb and whole food healthy will have your homesteading mama self fulfilled and satisfied.
I’ll give you the base recipe, but it is really versatile with what you can add to it. Check out the notes at the bottom for our favorite add-ins and substitutes.
WHAT YOU’LL NEED
A mixing bowl
12” cast iron skillet or 9x13” baking pan
8 eggs
1/3 cup mayo
1 cup sour cream
1 tsp minced onion (dried or fresh)
½ tsp garlic salt (reduce if using salty meat like ham or sausage)
1/8 tsp pepper
1 cup chicken (or any meat of choice. See notes)
1 cup shredded cheese like cheddar or Colby blend
½ cup spinach or leafy green of choice
MAKE IT
1. Prepare your crust following the recipe for Zucchini/cauliflower crust. Once the crust is out of the oven, lower the temp to 350.
2. Mix the eggs, mayo, sour cream and spices together with a whisk. Then add the meat, cheese, and leafy greens.
3. Pour it over the already prepared crust and pop in the already warm oven.
4. Bake it at 350 for 30-35 minutes until set in the middle.
NOTES: Any cubed or shredded meat can be used in place of the chicken. We like our home-made sausage or ham the best. Reduce the salt about half when using a salty meat. Adding a little pre-cooked bacon is a nice touch as well. You can even omit the meat altogether. For the leafy greens, any will do. I stopped growing spinach in my garden and replaced it with Swiss Chard instead for higher more economical yield and easier growing in my area. Kale works great too, or you can even omit the greens altogether.
I hope you enjoy this wholesome family recipe as much as we do. For more recipes and homesteading lifestyle tips check out our community on Facebook, Home Instead; practical homesteading tips, tricks and recipes.
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Indulge in the ultimate homemade custard experience with my glorious Vanilla Custard recipe! Made from scratch with simple household ingredients, this delectable treat is sure to satisfy your sweet tooth. No special equipment required—just follow my easy instructions for creamy perfection every time. Plus, discover how to transform it into irresistible chocolate custard. Say goodbye to store-bought pudding cups and hello to affordable, flavorful, and healthier alternatives. Join us on a journey of culinary delight as we explore the joys of homemade goodness together. Don't miss out—try it today!
Discover how easy and cost-effective it is to make your own almond milk in this blog post. With the skyrocketing prices of store-bought almond milks, making your own is a smart alternative. Not only does it save you money, but it also allows you to control the ingredients. Unlike commercial almond milks loaded with additives and sugars, homemade almond milk is a healthy and clean option. It is lower in calories and carbs, higher in calcium, and has less inflammatory effects than dairy milk. Plus, it's super easy to make! Simply soak raw almonds, blend them with filtered water, strain, and enjoy. Consider adding vanilla extract or natural sweeteners like dates or honey for added flavor. Use your homemade almond milk in cereal, baking recipes, coffee, smoothies, and more. Don't forget to save the solids for recipes. Join the online community for more savvy swaps like this one. Start making your own almond milk today and experience the benefits.
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In the journey to maintain a healthy lifestyle for both me and my family, I share how substituting traditional desserts with healthier options can significantly affect one's well-being. Through my own personal struggle with gut issues, I have discovered recipes like these delightful Almond Balls, which not only cater to dietary preferences like gluten-free, dairy-free, and sugar-free but also prove that healthy eating doesn't have to compromise on taste. These Almond Balls are a testament to dessert recipes that are not only nutritious but also delicious, fitting into a variety of diets including Paleo and vegan.
The recipe provided for Almond Balls is simple and made with ingredients like almond flour, coconut oil, and vanilla extract for the filling, and cocoa nibs or chocolate chips for the chocolate coating. This dessert option showcases that satisfying a sweet tooth can still align with healthy eating habits. The suggestion to add natural sweeteners for those who prefer a sweeter taste, maintaining the dessert's health benefits, reflects a flexible approach to health-conscious desserts.
Furthermore, I highlight the positive impacts of participating in an 11-Day Jumpstart, emphasizing how it has revolutionized my health by reducing inflammation, increasing energy levels, and aiding in weight loss. This experience, along with the success of incorporating healthy desserts into my family's diet, encapsulates the broader message of making health-focused changes that are both achievable and enjoyable. The encouragement to join the Swap It Savvy community extends an invitation to others seeking a supportive environment for making healthier lifestyle choices.
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Hydration is a key component of our health and well-being, impacting everything from our physical condition to our mental state. Recognizing that each body has unique needs, it's vital to understand how much water you should be consuming daily, which can vary based on individual factors such as activity level and overall health. Adding dietary supplements approved for hydration, like certain essential oils or antioxidant juices, can enhance the taste of water and contribute positively to our hydration goals, making the experience enjoyable and refreshing.
To ensure that our bodies effectively use the water we consume, adding minerals and electrolytes can be a game-changer, especially for those who feel thirsty even after drinking ample amounts of water. These hydration enhancers play a crucial role in cellular nourishment and preventing the overwhelming of our systems, by guiding water to where it's most needed. Opting for clean, quality products without artificial additives is crucial for achieving deep and lasting hydration, with recommended options like vitality drops and ionized mineral supplements that can be mixed with antioxidant-rich juices.
Moreover, addressing concerns like frequent trips to the bathroom post-hydration, suggests looking into our digestive health as a potential underlying issue. A gentle colon scrub, as opposed to harsh cleanses, can significantly improve our body's water absorption efficiency. This holistic approach to hydration emphasizes the importance of listening to our bodies and making adjustments that go beyond just increasing water intake, ensuring that our hydration efforts are truly beneficial and support our overall health and well-being.
Read more...Did you know there is a health crisis in our world caused by these microscopic organisms that are often overlooked by doctors, yet they can lead to auto-immune diseases, cancer, mental health problems, and more. Research suggests that one in three people may be infected. They cause inflammation and steal nutrients from your body. From weight gain to irregular sleeping patterns to mood changes, these little nasties can wreak havoc on your health. If you want to safely eliminate parasites from your body, there is a free program available to guide you through the process. Just join the Swap It Savvy group and say, "I want parasites GONE!" Let's get rid of these creepy crawlies and restore our health!
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So, ever since I started doing 11 Day Jumpstarts , an 11-day protocol that trains the body to flush inflammation, leaving you feeling energized and amazing while weight falls off, I’ve been turned on to sweet potatoes. Pretty sure they are my new favorite food.
And then I discovered why my body craves them so much this week. Wanna know? Read the Blog.
I'll give you a hint.......it has to do with my cycle.
Discover the Health Benefits of Sweet Potatoes
An insightful exploration of the amazing health benefits of sweet potatoes and why they're essential for busy women seeking sustainable energy and wellness.
Lower Glycemic Response
Sweet potatoes offer a lower glycemic response compared to regular potatoes, making them ideal for maintaining steady blood glucose levels and sustainable energy throughout the day.
Discover the Secret to Better Sleep and Transform Your Health in Just 11 Days
Are you ready to take control of your brain function and supercharge your overall well-being? It's as easy as a good night's sleep. Did I say easy? I meant simple. We all know sleep doesn't always come so easy. Read on for help with that too.
Did you know that when you're in REM and deep sleep patterns, your body undergoes a remarkable process of repair and rejuvenation? Yes! Rest and repair right? Around 80% of the healing process happens in the deepest of sleeps. Your tissues are repaired and regrown, your bones and muscles are strengthened, and your immune system receives a much-needed boost. But sleep is also a game-changer for your brain.
During those blissful hours of deepest shut-eye, your brain wrings itself out like a sponge, expelling all the toxins accumulated during the day into the cerebrospinal fluid. Those toxins are then whisked away by your arteries, ensuring that your brain remains fresh and primed for peak performance. By allowing your brain to rid itself of these toxins, you can combat memory loss, lack of focus, and even reduce your risk of Alzheimer's and dementia. Simply put, sleep is a big deal.
But how do you unlock the full potential of sleep and experience its transformative effects? How do you achieve that good healing deep sleep?
Look no further than right HERE
This incredible system was designed to help you transform your health and harness the power of magical sleep in just 11 days.
Imagine waking up each morning with a clear mind, razor-sharp focus, and a renewed sense of vitality. With THESE proven techniques and expert guidance, you'll establish the best sleep that will revolutionize your life. Say goodbye to tossing and turning, and hello to restful nights filled with deep, rejuvenating sleep.
Don't miss this opportunity to take control of your brain function, boost your memory and focus, and reduce the risk of cognitive decline. THIS is the key to unlocking the life-changing benefits of quality sleep, sustainable energy, and rock solid health. Oh! I forgot to mention it's free! You'll just need to grab a few supplies to do the protocol.
But don't take my word for it...... the proof is in the pudding....or whatever..... here is a screenshot of my sleep report just 4 days in. 
So are you ready to embark on this incredible journey with me? CLICK HERE now to learn more about this incredible protocol and secure your spot today so you too can enjoy the best sleep of your life.....naturally!
For a community filled with Savvy tips to help you do life better, join us HERE. We'd love to have you!
Oh and I know you're going to ask me about the supplies needed so HERE'S that too.
Peace!
Jackie
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Got period problems?
Chronic inflammation could be the main reason for your period problems…or any cycle-related fertility issues you’re experiencing.
Inflammation distorts hormonal communication. If you’ve taken my cycle tracking course you know there is a delicate communication process between the hypothalamus, pituitary, ovaries, and cervix that needs to go smoothly for successful ovulation…..which equals happy periods and regular cycles.
Chronic inflammation blocks hormone receptors; these are the holes in the cell that accept the proper molecules of nutrients like a key in a lock. If the receptor for estrogen or progesterone, or whatever, is blocked, the hormone cannot enter the cell and do its job. It is then left wandering in the blood stream where the hypothalamus will read its presence and not call for more, yet the cell never got it, so it will ask for more and be denied, and now we have a hormonal mess.
Chronic inflammation impairs estrogen metabolism….how estrogen is created, used, and eliminated. We need this process to go smoothly so we have estrogen available when we need it (for ovulation) and the used up estrogen is eliminated properly to keep the hormonal harmony on point. Cancer cells feed on estrogen, so we don’t want that stuff just hanging out willy nilly…ya know what I mean?
Chronic inflammation prevents ovulation which prevents the production of progesterone, which can cause a host of issues such as heavy periods, infertility, miscarriage, depression, low libido, etc. It is our happy hormone. And when we are low in progesterone, we get into a state of estrogen dominance which leads to even more disaster such as acne, weight gain, irritability, mid-cycle bleeding, etc.
Your body sees inflammation as a stressor, and when stress is present, your cycles go wonky.
How do you know if you have chronic inflammation?
Look for signs such as headaches, joint pain and body aches, fatigue, brain fog, chronic skin conditions such as psoriasis, eczema, and acne.
Chronic inflammation is something that occurs just by the body living….like car exhaust happens just from the motor running. It could also be the result of…
- Stress - cortisol and adrenaline leave behind lots of car exhaust.
- Insulin resistance - which we all have a degree of just by the way most of us eat. If you’re not actively aware of your blood sugar levels and your carb/sugar intake, you’re creating a lot of extra inflammation from the roller coastering blood glucose levels and insulin throughout your day.
- Infection - It is normal and necessary to have an inflammatory response to an acute infection...it’s how the body heals, right? But, if you’ve got chronic infections happening, you’ve got a lot more chronic inflammation happening too. You’ll need more help clearing that out.
- Environmental toxins - not just a factor for those who work in high fumes or hazardous work zones. The air quality in the average home is 7 times worse than the average factory or workplace air. This is due to the obscene amounts of fragrant products we use such as scented candles and sprays, perfumes, laundry products, soaps, lotions, face creams, hair products, cleaners, etc. The list is pretty long. Take inventory of how many products you have in your home that contain fragrance in them and you have a definitive source of inflammation.
- Digestive problems - the gut is the core or hub of the body. If it’s sick, so is the rest of you. Most everyone has leaky gut issues and/or inefficient elimination…aka constipation for those who won’t acknowledge they are indeed constipated….. to some extent. Every single diagnoses involving the gut is leaking toxins into the bloodstream creating a nonstop inflammatory response that will manifest into countless other symptoms such as skin issues, cycle problems, heart issues, arthritis issues, literally EV…ER…Y….THIIIING you go see a doctor for.
Are you surprised by any of these? Tell me if you’re surprised!
So what do we do?
Your strategy is to address the underlying cause of all your problems….chronic inflammation, and teach your body how to flush it out on a regular basis…without pharmaceutical drugs.
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Things I’ve stopped doing in the garden that save money.
With the rising cost of things these days, we’re all looking for ways to save money. Gardening in itself is a great way to save money, but I’ve gone even further to share my best tips for saving money in the garden. Check it out…..
1. Don’t buy fertilizer or bagged manure/compost.
We live on a farm, so manure compost is abundant around here, but for those of you in the city or not on a farm you still have better options than buying bagged manure or pelleted fertilizers. Most farms are happy to let you fill a garbage can or pickup, etc for free, or at least a lower price than the stores. Maybe you have a neighbor with some chickens in the backyard? Ask them.
Composting is another great alternative. Composting is a natural process that transforms your kitchen and garden waste into a valuable and nutrient-rich food for your garden. It's easy to make and use. All organic matter eventually decomposes. In a compost pile, this process is accelerated by conditions created by the composting gardener (you).
Use compost bins like THIS ONE to make the process more user friendly.
2. Stop buying seeds.
You won’t be able to do this entirely, but here are the things I no longer buy seeds for and how I do it.
- Potatoes. Save the baby potatoes that are too small to bother with, or the ones that have gone soft or sprouted before you could eat them. They will store in a cool dry place in burlap or cardboard until you can plant them, and will yield potatoes as good as any seed potatoes you buy. I haven’t bought seed potatoes in 3 years (since discovering this trick). This year alone, my garden yielded almost 100 pounds of potatoes just from the tiny ones I saved from last year’s harvest or I bought but went bad. That’s a lot of money saved….and a lot of lefse’ to make and freeze. See how I do that in the next blog.
- Tomatoes. I have the best luck with cherry tomatoes. They just come up voluntarily in my garden now and I let them. I also have random Roma and Heirlooms show up, but mostly cherry. So, you can leave the fruits fall in the ground and grow on their own, or if you don’t want your garden looking like a tomato jungle like mine did this year, save the seeds and plant them where you’d like them. I just remove the seeds and spread them on some scrap paper to dry and store them in a bag with a paper towel or napkin inside in case I don’t get them dried enough. You may notice the cherries may not be as sweet, but I use them in my sauces and such as normal tomatoes so sweetness isn’t an issue. And when you have more tomatoes than you know what to do with, I have an awesome-sauce recipe for sauces and salsa (haha), including the best sauce-making gadget around that cuts time by peeling and pitting your tomatoes for you. A must-have thing for my kitchen.
- Green beans. No matter how good you check your plants at harvest time, you always miss a bean or ten and they get too big and seedy. I started leaving them on the vine to complete their seed-making process, then harvest the seeds to plant next season. Works great and I don’t feel bad about letting those beans go to waste.
- Peas. Same as the beans.
- Dill. Plant dill once and you’ll never have to buy seed again if you leave just one stem go to seed. You could even ask a friend for a stem of over-ripe dill to let dry and harvest the seed. The flowers turn to seed, so simply let the dill go to seed, and strip the seeds off. You’ll get hundreds from just one stem. I do this with cilantro and mint as well.
- Onions. I just have the red (purple) spring onions in my garden now because they produce their own bulbs and keep planting themselves. I mean, a plant that plants itself is definitely what this busy mama needs in her life. Every onion bulb will grow a cluster of 4-6 more onion bulbs at the end of its stem. You can let the stem tip over and plant itself, or you can pick off the cluster of bulbs and plant them where you want them. I have planted the whole cluster as one and I have broken them apart to plant as single bulbs. Single bulbs tend to grow bigger, but if they are teeny-tiny, plant the cluster and split them when they get bigger.
- Garlic. This one will take a few years to build up enough seed stock to be self sustaining, but every clove of garlic planted will give you a cluster of 4 or more cloves. I grow hard neck variety because I’m in zone 4. You will have some cloves that are giant and glorious, cook with those. The cloves that are smaller are the ones I save for planting. This year I tried an experiment that so far seems to be working well….if they survive our North Dakota winter. I let a few of my garlic scapes (the top flowers) go to seed and planted that. So far they are sprouting and creating mini bulbs. I expect them to sprout again in spring, but it’ll likely take 2 years before they are big enough to eat. If this experiment works out, I will have over 50 garlic bulbs to plant from my original 8 cloves I started with. (fingers crossed)
- Peppers. Did you know you can transplant your pepper plants to a pot and bring them inside for the winter? I’ve done this with jalapenos and green bells, but any variety should do. There’s a special way to prune the plant I learned on YouTube. The idea is for the plant to go dormant, but mine didn’t go dormant, and in fact, kept giving me peppers all winter, and when I planted it back in the garden in spring it was LOADED all summer long. I currently have 10 pepper plants in my living room waiting to be replanted next spring. Good thing I learned a great way to pickle peppers this year. I should no longer need to buy jars of those anymore either. I'll share how in another blog (you may as well just subscribe below so you don't miss these).
- Flowers. There are tons of flowers that you can harvest seeds from. A simple youtube search of the flowers you have will tell you if and how to get seeds from them. The easiest for beginners is the hardy Marigold. Simply let it dry out. Pluck the petals and there will be long skinny seeds. I currently have a million petunia seeds I harvested from the mother’s day basket my kids gave me in May. Ask your flower-loving friends to let you harvest some seeds to get you started. If they know about this trick, they’ll have plenty to share. If they don’t know, they’ll be happy for the tip.
There are tons of other plants you can harvest seeds from. This is just what I have personally done myself. I’d love for others to share their experiences in the comments as well. Now for my next tip....
3. Stop buying spinach. We LOVE spinach, but up here in ND, good, fresh spinach is hard to come by and a bit spendy. I was growing it in my garden, but found its yield to be not very rewarding compared to the bountiful harvests of the other things I grow. A packet of seeds barely gave us enough to enjoy for a month. It just goes to seed so fast. It yielded so little. It was not paying for itself. A friend of mine told me to use Swiss Chard instead, and gave me some to try. I will never plant spinach again. Instead I plant Swiss Chard and use it in everything I used to use spinach in. No one has been able to tell the difference. I used to need to plant 3 seed packets of spinach to get enough for my family to enjoy half the summer; approximately a $12 investment to yield barely what I could buy $3 at the grocery store. This year I planted half a packet of Swiss Chard. We ate on it all summer, and it’s now mid-October and I still have a gallon-sized baggie of it sitting crispy in my fridge. Its big leafy goodness just yields so much and stays fresh much longer. It is DEFINITELY a permanent add to my garden. Goodbye spinach.
4. Stop winging it from memory. I started keeping records because each spring I would spend too much time trying to figure out how much seed to buy to get the yields I needed. Then I would spend too much time in my garden trying to lay out a planting plan based on memory of how the year before went. I don’t have time for all that thinking and remembering and who wants to repeat epic fails? Creating journals is what I do, so when I couldn’t find a suitable garden journal to buy, I made one that suited my needs. One that doesn’t have a lot of extra stuff. Just plain and simple, easy to use, exactly what I want to record. Nothing more to sift through. It has space to plot how I laid out the garden plots, record what I planted, when I planted, and when it will be ready to harvest, and lots of note writing space to record anything different I did or need to do, what did well where, etc. There’s a companion plant chart for easy access too. My garden has spots that are in partial shade and full sun. There is harder soil and soft. I also have 2 gardens, so recording which vegetables do better in which garden and where is helpful too. In my world, time is more precious than money, so taking a few seconds to jot a few notes that saves me hours of planning and trying to remember things year-to-year is a sound investment. Grab the journal HERE.
So there you have it, the many ways to save money while still having a successful vegetable garden. By doing your own composting, harvesting seeds, and utilizing the right varieties of plants to fit your needs, you can reduce expenses. If you’re looking for even more advice and insights, make sure to check out the savvy living community. There you’ll find plenty of tips and tricks from individuals who have already put in countless hours of effort into maintaining beautiful gardens. So get out there and start reducing your gardening costs!
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