One of my favorite posts to write every month is my “Favorite Things” post!
I’m back today with a handful of favorites — I think there really is something for everyone on my list this month!
Blog
3 Simple and Specific Ways to Improve Your Nutrition
I don’t usually blog about health or nutrition — mainly because I’m not super passionate about these topics. However, I AM passionate about simplifying overwhelming topics and concepts so they feel doable for us normal, average, everyday people.
If you’ve ever felt overwhelmed by all the “don’t buy”, “never eat”, and “stay away from” advice from the “experts”, and just want a few simple ways to slowly start improving your nutrition, I think today’s post will be just what you’re looking for!
A Peek Into Our Week
Although it has been challenging for me to find my groove again after coming back from vacation, I’m feeling more productive, more efficient, and more “normal” again after a couple weeks at home.
I tried a few new recipes last week, read a bunch of books, and found a some fun goodies on Amazon — I’m sharing all of that, and more, in today’s post!
My Thoughts on Children’s Sleep Schedule
It’s been just over a year now since we finally got all 3 of our kids on a relatively decent sleeping schedule… and since then, Dave and I have enjoyed hours of kid-free time every evening.
I’m often asked to share what exactly we did to get our kids to sleep better — and although I don’t have a specific 3-step or 5-step process, I hope that some of the thoughts I share in today’s post will help those of you in the thick of sleepless nights!
6 Things I Dislike About Various Pots and Pans
Over the last 10+ years, I have used many different pots and pans, and I think I’ve finally figured out what I want/need from my pans, as well as a handful of features I really dislike.
For those of you who share my enthusiasm for random product reviews (good and bad), I thought it might be helpful if I shared a few things I dislike about various pots and pans. I’d love it if you shared more in the comments!
My Minimalist Maternity Wardrobe
Self-Imposed Deadlines: My Time Managers and Life Simplifiers
For as long as I can remember, I’ve set self-imposed deadlines for myself and my life — everything from school work and piano lessons as a child to blog work and home maintenance as an adult.
I do realize that self-imposed deadlines might not work perfectly for every personality type… but they sure do have a HUGELY positive impact on my own life… and today, I’m sharing a few reasons why.
The Dekkers Go To Florida
Last week, our family flew to Kissimmee, FL, with my entire side of the family for spring break… and even though I felt more tired when we got home than before we left, I’d have to say that the week was a success (considering we traveled with 3 children 5 and under!)
Today I’m sharing a bunch of pictures from our trip!
My 2017 View of “Homemaking”
For me, “homemaking” in 2017 looks quite a bit different than it did years ago… and while I probably wouldn’t ever introduce myself as “Andrea Dekker, a homemaker” I’m also not ashamed to consider “homemaking” as a large and important part of what I do every day.
After reading this post, I still don’t expect you to love it as much as I do — but maybe you won’t hate it!
How We’re Preventing Pests This Year
Over the past few years, Dave and I have dealt with our fair share of pest issues — everything from bats and bees to moles and mice. However, THIS year, we’re taking some preventative measures that will hopefully keep the pests out all spring and summer long.
I’m also sharing how the act of “prevention” has helped me to simplify and de-stress my life!
7 Bad (and Better) Responses for a Friend in Need
Almost all of us have some sort of issue or problem we struggle with on a daily basis… and sometimes we just need to vent.
Inspired by a recent reader question, I decided to share 7 bad (and better) responses for when a friend (or spouse, or child, or other relative) comes to us to vent, to share a concern, or to ask for our advice.
Apple, Bacon, Pecan Salad with Apple Vinaigrette
One Simple Way I Got My Kids to Listen Better
Today I’m sharing one simple thing I’ve been doing with my kids that has helped them listen to me so much better.
Of course, they aren’t magically compelled to do everything I ask without moaning, groaning, whining, and complaining… but we are making progress, and that’s all I can ask for right now!
A Few of My Favorite Things {April, 2017}
I Have SO Many Photos… Where Should I Start?
Since I often talk about our digital photo books and how I have chosen to organize our photos, it’s not a huge surprise that I get A LOT of questions and emails regarding photo storage and organization.
Today I’m sharing MY answer to the top question I get regarding photo organization… “I have SO many photos, where should I start?”
Can It Really Hurt To Try?
Do you struggle to make simple decisions or constantly worry about making a mistake or failing? Do you regularly ask for other people’s opinions instead of just trusting your own gut instinct?
If so, I hope today’s post offers a bit of encouragement and motivation to “just give it a try” (whatever IT is). After all… can it really hurt to try?
The Gift of (Allergy Friendly) Food
I’ve always been a huge fan of food gifts — both giving and receiving! However, over the past few years, I’ve had so many situations where the family I want to give a food gift to has food sensitivities or food allergies.
Because of this, I came up with 2 or 3 simple go-to meals I could make when people have some of the more common food sensitivities. I’m sharing the recipes today — and I’d love a few more ideas to add to my list!
A Different Perspective on Two Working Parents
If I’m honest, I’ve often felt a little guilty about the time I spend working (even though I’m working from home).
However, I recently realized that although it can be tricky to find the right “balance” and enough time for everything when both Dave and I work, with a little bit of a different perspective on things, I can see the HUGELY positive effect my job (and my income) have on our family.