Our bodies are naturally equipped with detoxification pathways like the liver, kidneys, and skin, that work tirelessly to remove toxins. However, in today’s world, even in rural areas, we are bombarded with toxins like environmental pollutants, pesticides, and heavy metals that can overburden these systems. This stress of this burden shows up at a surface level as things like low energy, bad breath or BO, body achiness, noisy joints, skin problems, and then becomes more serious with things like unexplained infertility, problematic cycles, even cancer.
Supporting the detox pathways not only helps your body eliminate toxins but also boosts energy, strengthens the immune system, and improves overall well-being and so much more. For busy families like us that need to be in top form to accomplish all the daily tasks we have, this extra layer of self-care is a must.
The Ionic Footbath Detox Machine is an easy-to-use tool that works by releasing ions into warm water, creating a gentle electrical current. This process stimulates your body to release toxins through its natural detox pathways, often leaving you feeling refreshed and recharged. Here’s why it’s perfect for busy people like us:
- Time-Saving Self-Care. Life is busy, and finding time for self-care can be a challenge. The Ionic Footbath makes it easy—just set it up, sit back, and let it do the work while you relax with a good book or plan your next project. It takes approximately 30 minutes, but you can adjust the time for what you have.
- Cost-Effective Detox . This machine is super affordable compared to professional treatments for the same thing. Once you invest in the machine, you’ll have an affordable, reusable tool that eliminates the need for expensive spa treatments, and even some supplements, in the convenience of your own home.
- Gentle and Non-Invasive. Unlike some detox methods, the Ionic Footbath is gentle and non-invasive, making it an ideal option for those who prefer holistic, low-impact solutions to support their health. It feels so good to sit with your feet in the warm water and watch the machine go to work changing the water into some crazy colors.
- Supports a Healthy, Active Lifestyle. From tending the garden to caring for animals, and running the kids around, we need our bodies to be in top shape. Regular detox sessions can help reduce fatigue and improve focus, so you can tackle even the toughest days with ease and comfort.
For these reasons, the ionic footbath detox machine is one of my favorite self-care devices. Stay tuned for my other top 2 favorite self-care devices to support detox and help me target the health needs of my busy family, and jump into the community of other savvy, health-minded people HERE where we're currently working on ridding the body of chronic inflammation and other savvy things.
Be well!
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When temperatures plummet and the wind brings arctic chills, livestock care becomes a top priority. A polar vortex doesn’t just challenge us; it pushes our animals to their limits too. Keeping them healthy and comfortable during these extreme conditions is no small feat, but with the right preparations, you can make it through the cold snap together. Here are some tried-and-true methods to keep your livestock safe during a polar vortex.
1. Feed! Feed! Feed!
When it gets bitter cold, livestock burn more energy to stay warm. These extreme cold days are not the time to make the animals clean up their scraps. Instead, provide extra hay and high-energy grains. This is one of the simplest and most effective ways to help your animals maintain their body heat. When an animal eats, the fermentation within the stomach naturally generates heat. This "internal furnace" helps your animals combat bitter winds and freezing temperatures.
Keep an eye on feeding areas to ensure there's always enough hay available, especially during peak cold hours like early mornings and late evenings. If you have pastured livestock, supplement with hay even if they usually forage for themselves—frozen pastures cannot provide the same energy to sustain them during a cold spell. We also supplement our livestock with corn or oats when temps hit well below zero.
2. Water and Minerals
Water might seem like common sense in the summer, but hydration is crucial, even in freezing weather. Dehydrated animals are more susceptible to stress, illness, and cold-related conditions. Just as the dry air of winter leaches moisture from your own skin, it sucks the hydration from your animals too. That, and the fact that they are eating more dry roughage hay and consuming more salt (keep reading) will cause them to be extra thirsty. Make sure your water tanks are easily accessible. Investing in heated waterers or adding tank heaters can save you from constant de-icing and ensure your animals are getting enough to drink.
Alongside fresh water, minerals and salt play a vital role in maintaining your livestock’s overall health. I noticed our sheep and cattle especially have really hit the mineral feeders hard these past few days of -20⁰F and below. Vitamin and mineral intake helps regulate body temperature. Think of how salt melts ice by dropping the freezing point of water. Works similar in the body. Plus, water follows salt, so if you want all that water your livestock are drinking to be absorbed and hydrate the animal, they need salt. Providing free-choice minerals or salt so your animals can replenish what their bodies need is just as important during extreme cold as it is in the summer heat.
3. Provide Deep, Dry Bedding for Warmth
Animals lay on their legs to keep them warm. Deep bedding helps insulate their bodies from the frozen ground and keeps them off the icy, wet surfaces that can sap body heat quickly. Straw and wood shavings are excellent options for bedding, as they retain warmth and allow animals to burrow down for extra coziness.
Check bedding daily for moisture, as damp bedding can do more harm than good—it not only chills the animals but also increases the risk of frostbite and infections. Add fresh bedding frequently to ensure your livestock have a dry and warm place to rest. For larger animals like cattle, consider windbreaks or shelters as additional barriers from the blistering cold.
4. Wind and Shelter Protection
Speaking of shelter, providing your animals with a sturdy, windproof enclosure is critical. Whether it’s a barn, lean-to, or windbreak structure, having a place for them to escape the direct brunt of the wind can prevent frostbite and stress. Be mindful of ventilation as well; too little airflow can lead to moisture buildup, while too much exposure invites drafts.
5. Monitor Animals Closely
During extreme weather, keeping a close eye on your animals is essential. Look for warning signs of cold stress, such as shivering, lethargy, or huddling tightly together. Additionally, monitor their feed and water intake to ensure they’re maintaining their normal routines. Sick or weaker animals will require extra attention and potentially additional shelter and feed to help them recover.
6. Stay Prepared and Plan Ahead
Polar vortex conditions can escalate quickly, so planning ahead will save you from scrambling when the storm hits. Stock up on hay, bedding, and mineral supplies early. Check your watering equipment to ensure it’s functioning properly, and have a back-up plan in case of power outages or freeze ups. A little preparation can go a long way in protecting your animals during these harsh conditions.
Caring for livestock during a polar vortex is no easy task, but your extra efforts will make all the difference in your animals' health and well-being. By feeding extra hay, ensuring access to water and minerals, and providing deep, dry bedding, you can help your animals thrive even in the coldest weather. Remember, your livestock are counting on you, and with the right care, you'll both make it through to warmer days ahead.
Stay warm and stay safe during this polar vortex, and give your animals an extra treat for braving the cold!
See what else people are up to on their homesteads in our community for practical homesteading for busy families HERE.
and how I keep myself warm when I'm doing chores during these cold spells HERE.
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North Dakota winters can get pretty brutal cold here, but hey, we don’t have hurricanes or poisonous things, right?
Anyway, as someone who has zero body insulation, I’m always cold. I’m always the first to bundle up when temps start getting cool in fall and the last to let my gator and gloves go for the summer. Yes summer. I wear gators and gloves into summer because I’m always cold.
Because of my extreme dislike for being cold, but also an even more extreme dislike for hurricanes and poisonous things, I’ve found some pretty great gear to keep me warm because as a livestock producer, we just don’t get days off for inclement weather. In fact, we usually end up pulling double duty outside when the polar vortex hits because things break, equipment won't start, waters freeze, and animals need extra care and feed to keep warm. So how do I do it? Here are my best finds from the feet up.
Feet:
Inner layer. Some good smart wool socks. Feet and fingers are the first to get cold, so keeping the feet warm is key. Keeping them dry is the secret to keeping them warm and that is why a good wool sock is what you want. Wool wicks away the natural moisture your feet will give off as they breath and sweat so your feet stay warm. I found most wool socks to be thick and sloppy. If they’re too thick, they make your boots fit snug which also causes your feet to get cold. Your feet need wiggle room to keep circulation flowing. I also hate it when socks fall down in my boots, or come completely off. The SmartWool brand of socks remedy both these issues. They fit nice on the foot, stay in place and they aren’t super thick and bulky, they fit more like a regular sock, and they are comfortably soft, not itchy.
Outer Layer: I have two pairs of boots. My warm hunting boots and my snow-is-deep warm Muck boots. Both are good warm boots. Warmer than any winter boot I’ve owned. The hunting boot is lighter and more comfortable to wear and walk around in, but the lugs track in mud, snow and manure. When the snow gets deep or it is muddy or wet out, I opt for the Muck boots. If these were lighter, they would be all I own and in putting them to a comparison test this last polar vortex, the Muck boots proved to be warmer than my hunting boots.
Legs:
Inner layer: A good pair of long johns makes a huge difference. I’ve found these under armor base layers to be the most comfortable and warmest. Many long johns will slide down and sag in the crotch which is annoying and restricts movement. These stay in place. They fit snug, so they don’t creep up when you put your pants on over them. I hate having to reach up the leg to find your long johns up by your knees. These don’t do that, or pile up at the waist either. They are skin tight with a soft fleece inside so they’re not itchy. They check all my boxes for a fit, function, and fashion.
Middle layer: Jeans are the warmest, but not the most comfortable to wear so I’m all for a good thick pair of sweatpants. Thin won’t do though, so make sure they are nice and heavy, I like these fleeced-lined track pants or these sherpa lined ones are nice too, but go for denim jeans if you need more warmth.
Outer layer: Insulated Carhart bibs. I have ski bibs that are like my kids’ snow pants for “city outings” and they are noticeably NOT near as warm as my Carhart bibs I wear for chores. So go with Carhart bibs. They are more durable for working in too. I can move more freely in the bibs than a total one-piece coverall suit. I don’t like feeling restricted in movement. Can you tell?
CORE:
Inner layer: same Under Armor base layer as the legs. This under a normal sweatshirt is usually enough, but during this last polar vortex cold spell where we hit -50⁰F windchill I opted for my shirpa-lined sweatshirt to go over the base layer. It adds a bit more bulk, but is noticeably warmer. It’s like wearing a cozy blanket and I love it.
Middle layer: I am in love with this heated vest. It is my new winter gear staple. It prevents me from getting chilled better than anything else I have ever tried. I have a heated jacket I love too, but I like this vest even more because it fits closer to the body so you can actually feel the heating elements. I have yet to get chilled at my core while wearing this glorious invention.
Then to keep that heat in and the gusting ND winds out I love this insulated liner. You can wear all the layers you want, but if you don’t have some sort of a wind-breaking layer, you’ll feel drafts and get cold. It’s science. This liner is something I wear for all seasons. It’s comfortable, functional, and easy to keep clean.
Outer Layer: Insulated Carhart jacket. Yes, Carhart is king in chore gear / workwear. They are just so warm and durable to work in. a little heavy, but well worth the investment. They last.
Gloves: I have not found gloves that I love yet, so if you have, please share them. I’m tempted to try the heated gloves I’ve seen out there, but I feel like they wouldn’t hold up doing chores in them and they are a bit of an investment to be replacing often. So for now, I just buy insulated ski gloves. I go through a few pair each winter because they snag on things and get holes in them and it’s hard finding a pair that doesn’t sweat inside. I hate soggy gloves. The pair I have came from Walmart, but I linked them from amazon for your convenience to know a good pair that doesn't sweat, and so far, it's the end of January and I have only worn through across the index fingers because I snagged them on the fence.
Head: A neck gator is a must. I have a thin cloth gator I wear in the early fall or spring when people might look at me like I’m weird for wearing the heavy fleece one I wear all winter, but I love feeling cozy, I hate getting wind drafts down my shirt. A gator solves these issues for me. Plus, I can pull it up to my eyeballs when it’s freeze-your-face cold out. You're looking for double layered. Single layers are too thin and any breeze will go right through.
Good warm hats are hard to find, but they are out there. I wear a fleece earband first, then put a thick hat that has a fleece liner that goes all the way to the top so it is double layers. When it’s really cold or windy the bomber hat comes out. Wrap those rabbit fur flaps around your cheeks paired with the fleece gator and you’re good to go. Be sure it has a wind proof material on the head though, or your head will get cold in the wind.
So there you have it. How I dress head to toe when the wind blows and temps get frigid cold in North Dakota. As someone who is always cold and hates being cold, staying warm is super important to me, and I’ve gotten quite good at it.
Now that you've prepared yourself for the arctic tundra, CLICK HERE to read how to get your animals through these harsh cold snaps.
Be warm!
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This traditional lefse recipe has been passed down in our rural ND community for generations. It is easy to make and tastes delicious. It freezes well which makes it a great option for preserving that abundant garden potato harvest or bulk grocery store find.
What you’ll need:
- 6-quart stock pot for boiling potatoes
- Lefse making kit (see note 1 for equipment details)
- Food mill with Potato Ricer disc
- ~5 pounds of potatoes to make 8 cups mashed. (see note 2)
- ½ cup melted butter
- ½ cup heavy whipping cream
- 2 Tablespoons sugar
- 1 Tablespoon salt
- 4 cups Flour + more for flouring surface if needed (see note 1).
Make It:
- Boil and peel the potatoes. (see note 2)
- Run the cooked, peeled potatoes through the potato ricer. Measuring out 8 cups.
- To the 8 cups riced potatoes add the ½ cup melted butter, ½ cup cream, 2 Tbsp sugar, 1 Tbsp salt. Mix until incorporated. If it’s still hot, let cool to just warm.
- Add the 4 cups flour, one or 2 cups at a time. Knead with your hands until all the flour is absorbed and a nice sticky dough is formed.
- Roll the dough into balls (see note 3.) Let rest while you prepare your rolling/cooking area. Plug in the griddle, set to 500⁰F.
- Roll out the dough balls until they are as thin as possible while still being manageable; about ¼”. Too thick, they won’t cook through, too thin, they’ll tear and be hard to handle. (See Note 1 for my best tricks)
- Carefully maneuver rolled out lefse onto the UN-greased griddle and cook for 1:30 minutes. Flip. Cook another 1:30 minutes. Remove to a cooling wrack….or eat it right then.
Notes:
- They sell Lefse making kits which are a great investment with everything you need to start out, but over the years I have found rolling the dough on a floured surface with a covered rolling pin to be time consuming and uses a LOT of flour…and it's messy. I invested in a tortilla press and will never go back. It takes just seconds, not minutes, to roll out perfectly round lefse and eliminates the need for the rolling pin and flouring board that comes in the kit. You'll still want a flipping stick and will need the griddle or two.
To roll out lefse using a tortilla press simply sandwich the dough ball in between cling wrap and put the press down until it’s the desired 1/4" or less thickness. Peel one side of the cling wrap off, then flip the lefse in your hand to peel the other side off and plop it on the griddle. No flour needed, which makes for no mess and no chalky lefse. No more frustrations of lefse sticking to the flour board or rolling pin. It was a game changer for making multiple batches.
2. Russets are traditional, but I’ve found that all potatoes will work, even purple potatoes. If you boil the potatoes first, the peels will strip right off if you keep them wet.
3. Roll the dough into balls that are slightly bigger than a golf ball to no bigger than a baseball, finding the right size for you. My littles are still young, so I’ve found the smaller 8” lefse to be easier to press, handle and eat.
To Eat:
Lefse is versatile. It can be eaten for breakfast, dessert, or part of a meal. Use it like any flatbread or tortilla or as it is. Our favorite way to eat lefse is warm with butter, sprinkled with cinnamon and sugar. I also like eating it like a crepe with fruit and yogurt rolled up in it. Or make a savory wrap for lunch. Sky is the limit! I’d love to know how you like your lefse.
That’s it! Easy and delicious traditional lefse made with real garden potatoes and maybe even cream and butter from your own dairy animal or your own home-milled flour. So good!
Happy Homesteading!
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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.
For more recipes and ideas for what to do with your abundant homestead and garden harvests, join our Facebook community and stay tuned for the release of my new book, Abundant Homestead, a collection of practical ways for busy families to use and preserve your homestead harvests. Get on the list to get a free copy HERE.
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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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