Simple Homemaking and Homesteading | Simple Living, Sourdough, Budgeting, Meal Planning

Episode Description: Feeling overwhelmed by your finances and not sure where to start? In today’s episode of Simple Homemaking and Homesteading, I’m breaking down the exact steps to start a simple, stress-free budget — even if you’ve never tracked a dollar in your life. We’ll cover: ✨ Why budgeting doesn’t have to feel restrictive — it’s about freedom! ✨ The simple 5-step process to build a budget from scratch. ✨ Common budgeting mistakes (and how to avoid them). ✨ How to make your budget work for you, not against you. If you’re ready to take control of your money, grab a notebook and tune in! Let’s build a budget that fits your family’s life — without the overwhelm. Mentioned in This Episode: How to Make a Budget (Blog Post) Let’s Connect: Join my free private community here Email me at [email protected] 👉 If you found this episode helpful, share it with a friend or leave a review — it means so much!

Are you curious about homeschooling but unsure if it’s the right choice for your family? I’ve been there. In this episode, I’m pulling back the curtain on our homeschool journey — from the doubts and hesitation we first had to the powerful vision God gave me that made everything clear. I’ll share: ✨ Why we weren’t sure about homeschooling at first ✨ The moment God shifted my heart and gave me a vision for our homeschool ✨ My favorite parts of homeschooling — from slow mornings to faith-filled learning ✨ Encouragement for moms who feel a tug toward homeschool but don’t know where to start If you’ve ever wondered whether homeschooling might be right for your family or you just want to hear the heart behind why we chose this path, this episode is for you. Resources & Links: Top 10 Reasons We Homeschool Our Kids Let’s walk this journey together, one simple, intentional step at a time.  Join my free community here Email me at [email protected] with any questions! 

Have you been curious about sourdough but feel totally overwhelmed by the process? You’re not alone! In this episode, I’m breaking down the absolute basics of sourdough — perfect for anyone who wants to start but doesn’t know where to begin. We’re tackling the most common beginner questions, including: How much time does sourdough actually take? (Hint: Most of it is hands-off!) What tools do I need to get started? (Spoiler: It’s less than you think.) What if I mess up the timing? (Because life happens!) What is discard, and what do I do with it? (No, it’s not waste!) Sourdough doesn't have to be complicated. My goal is to make it simple, approachable, and fun — so you can feel confident enough to just start.   Let’s Connect! If you have more sourdough questions or want to share your first loaf with me, come hang out over in our free, private Facebook group here! I love seeing your baking wins (and flops — they happen to all of us!). Don’t Forget: If this episode was helpful, please subscribe and leave a quick review. It helps more women like you discover the simple, intentional life of homemaking and homesteading. Happy baking!

Have you ever had one of those days where your scattered brain feels absolutely paralyzing—like you're just moving through but feeling so anxious? I had one of those days recently, and in the midst of the chaos, I had a lightbulb moment that reminded me of why I set up systems to combat this. In this episode, I’m sharing my #1 productivity hack—a simple yet powerful way to stop that scattered feeling. What You'll Learn: ✔️ The surprising realization I had about why I felt so all over the place ✔️ Easy steps you can take today to help Resources: Episode 17: Stop the Scroll Join us in our free Insiders Facebook Group to continue the conversation!    If you enjoyed this episode, please leave a review! It helps so much and allows me to keep creating content that serves you.

Episode Summary: Now that we’ve talked about why we moved away from packaged snacks (listen to Part 1 here), let’s talk about what we make instead! In this episode, I’m sharing our go-to homemade snacks that are easy to prep, kid-approved, and way healthier than store-bought. If you’ve been wondering where to start with making your own snacks, this episode will give you simple, no-stress ideas. What You’ll Learn in This Episode: ✔️ The easiest homemade snacks to start with ✔️ Other simple snacks that require zero prep ✔️ How to make the transition easier for picky eaters ✔️ Why small swaps can make a huge difference over time   Next Steps: 👉 Which homemade snack are you going to try first? Let me know! Join my free insider community here where we're continuing this conversation!  💡 Want more simple homesteading and from-scratch cooking tips? Make sure to subscribe so you never miss an episode! ⭐ If this episode helped you, please leave a quick review—it means the world and helps other moms find the show!

If your kids are hooked on packaged snacks and refuse real food, you’re not alone! I was in the same place—until we made a shift. In this episode, I’m sharing why we decided to cut back on processed snacks, how we handled the transition, and the big wins we’ve seen since. If you’re wondering how to get your kids to eat healthier without a battle, this episode is for you! What You’ll Learn in This Episode: ✔️ The moment I realized my kids’ snack habits needed to change ✔️ Why we started avoiding natural flavors and processed foods ✔️ How we transitioned from packaged snacks to homemade options ✔️ What worked, what didn’t, and how our kids adjusted ✔️ The unexpected benefits we’ve seen since making the switch Resources & Links: 📌 Ingredients Matter Podcast Episode with Food Babe Vani Hari Next Steps: 👉 Don’t miss Part 2! In the next episode, I’ll be sharing our favorite homemade snacks that are easy, kid-approved, and actually delicious. 📩 Have you tried making your own snacks? I’d love to hear your experience! Join the conversation in our free Facebook group here 🎧 Loved this episode? Be sure to subscribe, rate, and review the podcast to help more moms find me! 

  In this episode, we’re diving into four simple yet powerful ways to prioritize God in your daily life. If you’re feeling distracted, overwhelmed, or like you’re not making enough time for your relationship with Him, this episode is here to help you refocus and realign. These practical steps will help you intentionally connect with God from morning to night, no matter how busy your day gets. What You’ll Learn in This Episode: Starting Your Day by Giving It to Him Making Time with God Non-Negotiable Noticing the Gifts He Gives You Every Day Closing Your Day with Gratitude Tune in for these practical tips, plus encouragement to make your relationship with God the foundation of your day! Resources Mentioned in This Episode: Episode 10- Prioritize God in Your Busy Schedule  Join my private Facebook community! Let's continue the conversation over there! bit.ly/planningcommunity  Want to become a Weekly Planning for Christian Moms Insider? Sign up here!

In today's episode I go through what my favorite books I read in 2024 were and why! Looking to add to your "to be read" list? Listen in for my suggestions!   Books mentioned:  - How to Manage Your Home Without Losing Your Mind by Dana K White - Gift of Limitations by Sara Hagerty - Remaining You While Raising Them by Alli Worthington - Sun Stand Still by Steven Furtick - Soundtracks by Jon Acuff   Join my free private Facebook community! Let's continue the conversation over there! bit.ly/planningcommunity  Want to become a Weekly Planning for Christian Moms Insider? Sign up here!

In this episode, I’m sharing my favorite tool for fighting distraction during the day: Focus Mode on your phone. Whether it’s endless notifications or the temptation to scroll, staying productive as a busy mom can feel impossible. But with this simple smartphone setting, you can reclaim your time, stay present, and tackle your to-do list with peace and clarity. I’ll walk you through why Focus Mode works, how to set it up, and my tips for making it part of your daily routine. What You’ll Learn in This Episode: Why distractions are a productivity killer and how Focus Mode can help. Step-by-step instructions for setting up Focus Mode on your phone. Practical examples of how I use Focus Mode throughout my day to stay on track. Tips for customizing Focus Mode to fit your needs as a busy mom. How Focus Mode can help you feel more in control of your time and tasks. Encouragement for the Week: Remember, managing distractions isn’t about perfection—it’s about progress. Focus Mode is one small step toward creating a life of intention and peace. You’ve got this!   Join my free private Facebook community! Let's continue the conversation over there! bit.ly/planningcommunity  Want to become a Weekly Planning for Christian Moms Insider? Sign up here!

In this episode, we're diving into what the Bible says about planning and how aligning our schedules with God’s priorities can transform our daily lives. If you've ever felt like you're striving to do everything right but still feel overwhelmed, this conversation is for you. I’ll share: Why surrendering your plans to God brings peace and calm to your days. How starting with God as your foundation allows everything else to flow more smoothly. Key Scriptures that highlight God's perspective on planning: Matthew 6:33 Matthew 6:21 Proverbs 16:3 Proverbs 16:9 You’ll leave this episode feeling encouraged to prioritize your relationship with God in your planning, knowing that He will guide your steps and provide for your needs. Don't forget to subscribe and share this episode with a friend who might need encouragement today! Resources Mentioned Today:  Mom Set Free by Jeannie Cunnion   Join my free private Facebook community! Let's continue the conversation over there! bit.ly/planningcommunity  Want to become a Weekly Planning for Christian Moms Insider? Sign up here!

In this episode of Weekly Planning for Christian Moms, we’re diving into the transformative practice of choosing a Word of the Year! If you’ve ever wondered what it means, why it matters, or how to choose one that resonates with your season of life, this episode is for you. What You’ll Learn: What is a Word of the Year? A simple yet powerful focus to guide your mindset and decisions throughout the year. Why Have One? How a Word of the Year can bring clarity, purpose, and alignment with God’s plan for your life. My Reflection from Last Year: A look back at the words God gave me in 2024 and how they impacted my journey. Reflection Questions to Ask God: What are You asking me to put down in each area of my life? What are You asking me to pick up in each area of my life? (Remember: You can’t pick up something new without putting something down. Adding without subtracting leads to overwhelm!) Exciting News: My husband and I are hosting our first-ever yearly planning, goal-setting, and vision-casting day as a couple! Tune in to hear how we’re seeking the Holy Spirit’s guidance for the year ahead. I’ll also reveal my Word of the Year for 2025 and share how I plan to let it shape my days and decisions. Your Homework: Take some time to reflect on the questions above. Pray and ask God to reveal a Word of the Year that aligns with the plans He has for you. Resources Mentioned: Episode 13: Rediscovering Your Dreams with Melissa Wilkinson Episode 6: How to Say No Without the Guilt  Example of Soaking Worship Music  Let’s Connect! Loved this episode? Join the conversation in our private Facebook group bit.ly/planningcommunity and share your Word of the Year! As always, I’m cheering you on as you seek God’s will in every area of your life. Remember, we don’t have to walk this journey alone—He is with us every step of the way.

Does dinner time feel like chaos in your house? Between activities, work, and everything else, figuring out what’s for dinner can be overwhelming. But it doesn’t have to be that way! Today, we’re diving into simple, actionable steps to make meal planning a stress-free part of your weekly routine. You’ll learn: How to plan meals around your schedule, not the other way around. The key to avoiding last-minute grocery trips. How to make meal prep less stressful Meal planning doesn’t have to be complicated. Let’s simplify it together and take one thing off your plate (pun intended).   Join my NEW private Facebook community! Let's continue the conversation over there! bit.ly/planningcommunity  Want to become a Weekly Planning for Christian Moms Insider? Sign up here!

Are you a mom who feels like your dreams have been put on hold? In this episode, I sit down with Melissa Wilkinson, founder of Anchored with Purpose and host of the Anchored with Purpose Podcast. Melissa shares her powerful story of transitioning from a fast-paced corporate career to rediscovering her God-given dreams. Together, we discuss why so many moms struggle to dream, how faith plays a pivotal role in reconnecting with our purpose, and actionable steps you can take to start dreaming again—without guilt. Melissa also takes us through a mini version of her dream workshop, offering insightful questions to help you uncover the aspirations God has placed on your heart. Whether you're feeling stuck, overwhelmed, or simply in need of inspiration, this episode is packed with encouragement and practical tips to help you take that first step. What You'll Learn in This Episode: Melissa’s inspiring journey from corporate life to purposeful living. Why moms often feel stuck and how to rediscover their dreams. How faith serves as a foundation for pursuing God’s plans. Practical questions to help uncover your passions and goals. Tactical steps for turning dreams into reality—without the mom guilt. Encouragement to embrace God’s timing and purpose for your life. Books Referenced:  Dream Manager by Matthew Kelly Circle Maker by Mark Batterson Your Homework: Grab a notebook or open a note on your phone and answer these three questions: If time, money, and circumstances were no issue, what would I want in life? What do I want to accomplish in my personal and professional life? Where would I live if I could live anywhere? What experiences would I want to share with my family? Pray over these answers, and choose one small action you can take this week to move closer to one of your dreams. Connect with Melissa Wilkinson: Get on the wait list for an upcoming dream workshop here!  Website: anchoredwithpurpose.com Podcast: Anchored with Purpose Podcast Facebook and Instagram   Thanks for listening!  Join my NEW private Facebook community! Let's continue the conversation over there! bit.ly/planningcommunity  Want to become a Weekly Planning for Christian Moms Insider? Sign up here!  

Does your to-do list ever feel endless, leaving you stuck in overwhelm and unsure of where to start? You’re not alone. In today’s episode, we’re tackling this common struggle and equipping you with practical steps to bring clarity and peace to your day. You’ll learn: What is actually holding you back from your list.  What mindset shifts have to be done first How to break it down into manageable chunks Overwhelm doesn’t have to define your day—let’s work together to take back control! Mentioned in this episode: Philippians 2:13- For God is working in you, giving you the desire and the power to do what pleases him. Join my NEW private Facebook community! Let's continue the conversation over there! bit.ly/planningcommunity  Want to become a Weekly Planning for Christian Moms Insider? Sign up here!

Have you ever caught yourself saying, “When things slow down…” or “After this season, it’ll be less busy…”? You’re not alone—I’ve said it too. But here’s the hard truth: it’s not just the holidays, soccer season, or back-to-school time that feels overwhelming. The busyness never stops unless we make intentional changes. In this episode, we’re having a heart-to-heart about the myth of “less busy seasons.” I’ll share why this mindset keeps us stuck, how we’re conditioned to wear busyness like a badge of honor, and the real reason we feel so stretched in every stage of life. We’ll also dive into: Why it feels like there’s always something keeping us busy. The importance of identifying where your time is actually going. How to be the gatekeeper of your family’s schedule—and say no with grace. A challenge to rethink how you answer, “How are you?” If you’ve been waiting for the busy to end on its own, let this episode be the wake-up call (and permission) you need to take back control of your time and energy. 📌 Resources Mentioned: Book: Until the Streetlights Come On by Ginny Yurich (founder of 1,000 Hours Outside). Episode 6: Start Saying No Without The Guilt By Using These 4 Phrases TODAY. 🎧 Grab your coffee (yes, even if it’s lukewarm) and let’s chat about how to choose your busy—and how to find freedom in simplifying your life.    Join my NEW private Facebook community! Let's continue the conversation over there! bit.ly/planningcommunity  Want to become a Weekly Planning for Christian Moms Insider? Sign up here!

Some mornings feel like a dream—your kids sleep in, you get your alone time, and the day starts on a peaceful, prayerful note. But then there are mornings when your toddler wakes you up at 4 a.m., someone is sick, or you hit snooze one too many times. What do you do then? In this episode, we’re talking about the reality of mornings that don’t go as planned and how to connect with God even when your “perfect quiet time” feels impossible. We’ll cover: The picture-perfect morning routine we all dream of—and why it doesn’t always happen. Encouragement for moms in seasons where alone time just isn’t realistic. Creative ways to spend time with God throughout your day, including: reading a children’s Bible with your kids, listening to Scripture while tackling chores, and praying over your family and home as you go about your tasks. Here’s the truth: God meets us where we are—whether that’s in a quiet living room with coffee or in the chaos of a busy morning with little ones. 🎯 Your Homework: Take a moment to write down two alternative ways to spend time with God when your morning plans don’t work out. Keep them handy for the next time your quiet time gets interrupted. Resources Mentioned: YouVersion Bible App https://apps.apple.com/us/app/bible/id282935706    Join my NEW private Facebook community! Let's continue the conversation over there! bit.ly/planningcommunity  Want to become a Weekly Planning for Christian Moms Insider? Sign up here!

In today’s episode we are going to talk about all the tons and tons of activities and events that come up this holiday season and how to decide what is right for your family! You cannot possibly do everything, so where do you even start when it comes to planning? Let’s dive in and find out!  It’s the last episode in the holiday planning series! I hope this blessed you, it was so fun for me!    Links:  Message on not comparing your race to other's race: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=qx7izA9c3VA    Join my NEW private Facebook community! Let's continue the conversation over there! bit.ly/planningcommunity 

In today’s episode, we talk about how to get on the same page with your family when it comes to Christmas. Here's a huge hint... it has to do with setting expectations! I know that can get a bad reputation but listen in to hear why I think it's a great solution to helping everyone have a great holiday season!    It's here! A private community where you can connect with other like-minded women who are working towards their time management goals too! Let's continue the conversation after the podcast here: Private Community, Click to Join!     Connect with Me: Don’t forget to subscribe to Weekly Planning for Christian Moms so you don’t miss upcoming episodes filled with practical tips and encouragement. Share this episode with a fellow mama who might need help finding peace in her busy schedule! Email me at [email protected] with any questions! 

The holidays are an amazing time of year, but they also can feel ridiculously stressful and make it hard to enjoy and be present with our families! In today's episode we are going to walk through 4 simple things you can do today to start planning for the holidays and get ahead of it this year!    Connect with Me: Don’t forget to subscribe to Weekly Planning for Christian Moms so you don’t miss upcoming episodes filled with practical tips and encouragement. Share this episode with a fellow mama who might need help finding peace in her busy schedule! Email me at [email protected] with any questions!  

In today’s episode, we are going to talk about how to say no graciously. If we are going to start managing our time and making sure we have time for the priorities in our lives, that will mean saying no! If saying no is something that you have no experience in, or really dislike having to do, listen in for some great phrases you can start using.    Connect with Me: Don’t forget to subscribe to Weekly Planning for Christian Moms so you don’t miss upcoming episodes filled with practical tips and encouragement. Share this episode with a fellow mama who might need help finding peace in her busy schedule! Email me at [email protected] with any questions!

In today's episode we're going to talk about what I think is such an important mindset shift to make before we really start to dive into time management. If you've ever thought that you "don't have time for that" or felt stressed over the amount of time you have in front of you... this is for you!   Links: Jacob Sheriff Podcast- Poverty Mindset about Time Episode Connect with Me: Don’t forget to subscribe to Weekly Planning for Christian Moms so you don’t miss upcoming episodes filled with practical tips and encouragement. Share this episode with a fellow mama who might need help finding peace in her busy schedule! Email me at [email protected] with any questions! 

In today's episode I'm going to lay out the tools I think are necessary for time management and planning your week and what tools are NOT a good idea to invest in from the beginning.    Click here to try out Cozi Family Calendar for FREE: https://bit.ly/danacozi  Please leave me a review so other moms can find me!  Email me at [email protected]

In today’s episode, we’re going to dive in to what can actually give you more peace in your week guaranteed. A way to help you stay calm amongst the craziness that is happening in this world and in your schedule. What to lean into in order to find that peace (and the other fruit of the Spirit as well!)     Connect with Me: Don’t forget to subscribe to Weekly Planning for Christian Moms so you don’t miss upcoming episodes filled with practical tips and encouragement. Share this episode with a fellow mama who might need help finding peace in her busy schedule! Email me at [email protected] with any questions!

In today’s episode, we talk about where to begin if you’re new to planning your week. If you’ve never tried to intentionally plan your week it can be hard to know where to start and I want to take the guesswork out for you! These 3 easy steps can be done in less than 30 minutes a week and will make such a difference in your overwhelm. Time management doesn’t have to be complicated! Simple time management is possible!   Connect with Me: Don’t forget to subscribe to Weekly Planning for Christian Moms so you don’t miss upcoming episodes filled with practical tips and encouragement. Share this episode with a fellow mama who might need help finding peace in her busy schedule! Email me at [email protected] with any questions!

In today’s episode, we dive into one of the most common struggles moms face—getting more done without feeling overwhelmed. I know this feeling all too well, which is why I’m excited to share the one thing that has completely transformed my life: intentional weekly planning. This simple yet powerful strategy will help you regain control of your time, prioritize what really matters, and get more done in less time without feeling scattered. Forget everything you’ve heard about complicated planning methods—this is a game-changer, and it’s easier than you think! Connect with Me: Don’t forget to subscribe to Weekly Planning for Christian Moms so you don’t miss upcoming episodes filled with practical tips and encouragement. Share this episode with a fellow mama who might need help finding peace in her busy schedule! Email me at [email protected] with any questions! 

Are you a busy Christian mom feeling overwhelmed by endless to-do lists, chaotic schedules, and complicated planning systems? Welcome to Weekly Planning for Christian Moms, where we take the stress out of time management and get back to basics.  If you’re ready to shove aside the constant striving and running and settle into a life you actually want to be a part of—you’re in the right place! Hey, I’m Dana, a Christian wife and homeschool mom of three. Since becoming a mom, I spent so much time feeling overwhelmed, like life was just dragging me along. I wondered, “What’s wrong with me? Why can’t I do it all when everyone else seems to have it together?” I was unhappy, my family was miserable, and it wasn’t working for us. I was saying yes to everything and felt so busy and like I didn’t even have time to fit in a date night.  I finally realized I needed to be intentional about planning our week and setting up boundaries to create a life we all loved. And I’m so excited to share this process with you!  If you’re finally ready to lose that overwhelmed feeling, release the guilt you’ve been carrying, create boundaries, and discover a clear, simple planning system that actually works for your life and priorities—this podcast is for you! Each week, you’ll discover practical, faith-filled strategies to organize your week, create balance, and make time for what truly matters—your family, your faith, and yourself. Whether you’ve never planned before or you’re tired of complicated systems, I’ll help you create a simple, effective weekly plan that works for your busy life. Put your lukewarm coffee back in the microwave, throw in an earbud, and let’s do this!