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***TOP 1.5 % Global Podcast*** Are you a busy mom who wants more time for what matters most, but you have no idea where to start simplifying your life? Do you wish you could nourish your family with healthy homemade food but are too overwhelmed and end up going through the drive thru......again? Are you concerned about the toxins in your home and food but don’t know how to find simple, natural options to support your family’s health? I am so excited you are here! This podcast will teach you how to live an simpler life, make your own natural products, simple ways to garden, cook from scratch, and preserve your food to save money and reduce the items you have to buy at the store to become more self-reliant and creating an income on your homestead! Hey, I’m Monica, I’m a wife, mom of 5 kids, grandma, nurse and daughter of the King! I was overwhelmed with my full schedule and knew I wanted to create more time for my family by simplifying my life. I started small by swapping toxic products for more natural ones, cooking simple healthy meals from scratch, and creating simple systems without the stress and overwhelm! And I can’t wait to share what I’ve learned with you! So grab that cup of coffee, get cozy on the porch swing…..and let’s chat! Website: Claimingsimplicity.com Join our Community of Christian Moms https://www.facebook.com/groups/claimingsimplicity/ Email -> monica@claimingsimplicity.com Instagram -> https://www.instagram.com/claimingsimplicity/
Episodes

Monday Nov 13, 2023
Monday Nov 13, 2023
Hey Friend!
You are the BEST!!!!!! I just want to say thank you! You are awesome and I love your support! We reached a huge milestone of 50,000 downloads last week!
I am celebrating being obedient and listening to the Holy Spirit! When the subject of podcasting came up, I didn’t even think twice about it since I wasn’t a podcast listener and I didn’t think speaking was one of my gifts. I however know when I need to obey and that is just what I did-I told God to do whatever He wanted in me and that I was available!
I had no idea how podcasting would change my life in so many ways. I want you to know that if there is something you are being called to do, but you are holding back, you can do it with God’s help and you don’t want to wait any longer. If you can help someone else with what you may think is something easy to you, they will be forever grateful.
I didn’t know this life of simple living would affect anyone else. It is just something that has been second nature to me as I was able to raise my babies all while finding creative ways to spend less money just so I could be a stay at home mom. It has blessed me so much to be able to teach others to do the same.
I’m so excited to let you know in celebration of this milestone and our fist email coming out this week, that anyone who signs up on the website for one of our free downloads will also be in a drawing for 2 winners to do a FREE 30 minute coaching call-that a $100 value! If you have already signed up, just shoot me a quick email at monica@claimingsimplicity.com and say hello and you will be in the drawing as well!
On the coaching call, I help you simplify your meals to save money on groceries, help you declutter and use a simple system to keep your home clean, or help you switch over to having a more natural home. Sign up by November 24th 2023 to get in on this deal!!!!!! I’m so passionate about helping others, that I get super excited when I see others getting results to change their lives from overwhelmed, stressed out and exhausted to beginning their simple living journey! Hope to chat soon!
Have a fabulous week and don’t forget to celebrate even your tiniest milestones!!!!!!
Website:
Join our Community of Christian Moms ->
https://www.facebook.com/groups/claimingsimplicity/
Email -> monica@claimingsimplicity.com
Instagram -> https://www.instagram.com/claimingsimplicity/
You Tube -> https://www.youtube.com/@claimingsimplicity/

Thursday Nov 09, 2023
Thursday Nov 09, 2023
Hey there!
I hear so many people say I will be happy when….I get this or that happens and always wanting more, more, more, but I know you can be happy right where you are right now.
I truely believe that when you are walking with Jesus daily and you have this amazing relationship with him, you can be happy in whatever your circumstance may be. There is such a joy in knowing that He is with you every step of the way.
Contentment is being satisfied and at peace with your current circumstances. It really is an essential element of living a simpler life that you want to have. There is also a connection between gratitude and contentment, so it is crucial that you are thanking God every day for what He has put in your life. There are so many things we take for granted and it is so important to appreciate and give thanks for each little things.
Here are three practical tips for you as a busy moms to find contentment in your daily life.
- Creating a daily gratitude journal-this is something I used to do in the morning, but I now like to do this before bed because all the things throughout the day are fresh in my head and it helps to go to bed with a thankful heart
- Embracing mindfulness and being present in the moment-don’t have your phone with you when you are doing anything with your child or even when you are together with friends. They know that they have to compete for your attention. Even as an infant. Being present and intentional is critical. I am so happy that I didn’t have to worry about a phone when my kids were young-it is one less thing that could distract me.
- Simplifying your routines and schedules so you can focus solely on what truely matters to you in life. Always be true to what you value and that will help you be more content. Less is so much more.
I just wanted to share this message as we enter into the extra busy holiday season where you may get exhausted. Remember to keep it simple and practice contentment.
Blessings friend!

Monday Nov 06, 2023
Monday Nov 06, 2023
Hello
I have an important topic to talk about and I’ll be diving into the essential aspect of ensuring that the sources you follow and the guidance you seek are rooted in our faith and values.
In today's digital age, we're bombarded with information from various sources. It can be challenging to discern which voices are in alignment with our biblical beliefs. Let's start by acknowledging the noise and confusion that surrounds us.
Information overload can lead to confusion and anxiety. I talk to my teenagers about this ALOT. There is alot of confusion when someone that labels themself as a Christian and promotes things that are not Biblically sound or twists Biblical information to fit what they want it to be or isn’t living as a changed person in Christ.
John 10:10 says the thief comes only to steal, killl and destroy, but I have come that they may have life and have it to the full. This verse just came to mind and I think about how sneaky and deceptive the devil is. The great news is that Jesus gives life!!!! The life he gives to us is abundantly rich and satisfying. It is eternal, although it begins immediately when you turn to follow him. Life in Christ is more deeply meaningful than life without him because of his overflowing forgiveness, love and guidance.
One of the key aspects of intentional living is discernment. It's about actively evaluating the content and people we follow to ensure they align with our faith. I’m still learning-sometimes I will be listening to a podcast who I thought was a Christian or calls themself that and then a topic comes up that makes it clear that they do not sharing Biblical values and I stop following them.
significance of connecting with like-minded individuals who share your values will do in your life. Also, make sure your Children are surrounded by other strong Christian friends because the enemy is sure trying to get into the schools, their phones and every aspect he can and they need a solid foundation in Christ. Teaching kids about Christ should be the most important and significant thing you can do
As you know, I’m not into social media much, but I just happened to see something on instagram about all the people that were baptized after the event at the Homesteaders of America conference. God is confirming that this simple life and these people we are choosing to be friends with align with our values. So many people were upset about this, but I believe God is raising up people in our community all for His Glory and I love seeing this. As the end gets nearer and things continue to line up for Jesus to come back to earth, I want to be ready and take as many people with me as I can. There are so many exciting things happening right now in the church, but we need to make sure we are not fooled.
Thank you for joining me on this journey towards intentional living and finding biblical guidance in a noisy world. Remember, it's all about taking small steps to make a big difference in your life.
I encourage you to take a deeper dive into the people you are hanging out with, following, listening to and make sure that they align with your values!
If you havn’t already, go to claimingsimplicity.com and check out the simple recipes listed and share this podcast with a friend that is interesting in beginner homesteading skills and a simpler life!
Website:
Join our Community of Christian Moms ->
https://www.facebook.com/groups/claimingsimplicity/
Email -> monica@claimingsimplicity.com
Instagram -> https://www.instagram.com/claimingsimplicity/
You Tube -> https://www.youtube.com/@claimingsimplicity/
See ya next week!
Monica

Thursday Nov 02, 2023
Hunting for a Simpler, More Sustainable Homestead Life: Embracing Self-Sufficiency
Thursday Nov 02, 2023
Thursday Nov 02, 2023
Hey! Hey!
Welcome back friend to another episode of Claiming Simplicity. I’m your host, Monica H Baker and your fellow homesteader here in the heart of Minnesota.
Before we even start, I should say that you do not need your own land to hunt on. There are many places you can hunt for free such as state land, but also remember that there are many farmers that don’t hunt and are happy to have someone that can use the meat to stop the deer from eating their crops, so if you want to hunt even living in town, there are many many options.
As we embrace the values of slow living and intentional living, hunting becomes more than just a source of sustenance. It's a journey, a connection with the land, and a celebration of nature's bounty. And through it, we'll uncover the many facets of self-sufficiency that enrich our lives.
Why is hunting so important for us as homesteaders? It really aligns perfectly with our commitment to sustainability and self-reliance
I did not grow up hunting, but all 5 of our kids know how to hunt and have experienced it on many different levels from hunting different animals, different techniches such as bow, rifle, and black power to how to processing them.
By harvesting our own wild game, we're not only ensuring a steady, organic source of protein but also reducing our dependency on commercial sources. This self-sufficiency empowers us to take control of our food sources and lead a simpler, more intentional life.
One of the most beautiful aspects of hunting is the connection it fosters with the natural world. As homesteaders, this deep bond with the land and its seasons is what we cherish.
When you're out in the wilderness, tracking game, and observing the beauty of nature, you're truly living the homesteading dream. This connection with nature is a cornerstone of self-sufficiency, as it reminds us of the importance of understanding and respecting the world around us.
Hunting is a family affair for us, a chance to pass down traditional skills to our children and create lasting memories. I have only hunted once with a bow and it was the perfect hunting story I am able to share and I have a hard time sitting still or being cold, so I get to enjoy kids, grandkids, cook meals and have fun as we anticipate all of our hunters coming back with deer! Evenings are full of game nights and stories and quality time together because it gets dark early here now and you can’t hunt past dark of course!
Teaching our kids the art of hunting is a way to ensure that these skills and values are carried forward. It's an incredible gift we can give to the next generation, ensuring that they have the knowledge and self-sufficiency to thrive in an ever-changing world.
Hunting can also be a vital tool for maintaining a balanced ecosystem on our homesteads. It helps manage local wildlife populations, which is crucial for protecting our gardens and crops.
By taking a responsible approach to hunting, we contribute to a healthier environment for all living creatures on our land, further emphasizing the importance of creating a harmonious and sustainable life.
Beyond hunting, let's take a moment to reflect on the broader benefits of self-sufficiency which means being less reliant on external systems. It allows us to save money, reduce waste, and create a more resilient and empowered life. It's about taking control of your own destiny and enjoying the freedom that comes with it.
I hope you've gained a deeper appreciation for the significance of hunting on our homesteads and the multiple dimensions of self-sufficiency that enrich our lives.
Website:
Join our Community of Christian Moms ->
https://www.facebook.com/groups/claimingsimplicity/
Email -> monica@claimingsimplicity.com
Instagram -> https://www.instagram.com/claimingsimplicity/
You Tube -> https://www.youtube.com/@claimingsimplicity/
Happy Hunting!
Monica

Monday Oct 30, 2023
Monday Oct 30, 2023
Hey there!
We are going to talk about 5 benefits of simplifying!
Let's kick things off by talking about one of the most profound benefits of simplifying your life: mental clarity. In our fast-paced world, it's easy to become overwhelmed by the constant noise and distractions. Simplifying your life allows you to declutter your mind, reduce stress, and make room for what truly matters
Simplicity isn't just about decluttering our physical spaces; it's also about simplifying our relationships. When we focus on meaningful connections, we can deepen our bonds with loved ones and create more fulfilling, authentic relationships.
Time is our most precious resource, and simplifying your life can help you reclaim it. Simplicity allows you to have more time for the things you love and the activities that bring you joy and time you never get back with loved ones. Time Freedom is the most amazing benefit to me. I don’t ever want to have regrets that I missed out on things.
Simplicity and intentional living can have a significant impact on your finances. There is so much freedom in not having debt.
Simplifying your life can lead to more mindful parenting as a busy mom.. Discover the joy of being present with your children and creating beautiful memories together."
If you enjoyed today's episode, don't forget to subscribe, share it with your friends, and leave a review. Your feedback means the world to me. And if you have any questions or topics you'd like me to cover in future episodes, feel free to reach out. Until then, stay cozy and live intentionally.
Website:
Join our Community of Christian Moms ->
https://www.facebook.com/groups/claimingsimplicity/
Email -> monica@claimingsimplicity.com
Instagram -> https://www.instagram.com/claimingsimplicity/
You Tube -> https://www.youtube.com/@claimingsimplicity/
God Bless and see you in the next episode!
Monica

Thursday Oct 26, 2023
Thursday Oct 26, 2023
Wow, I’m so glad you are enjoying this podcast-if there is anything you want me to talk about, just send me an email. I always love to hear from you! Since you loved the last episode on saving money on snacks so much, I thought I would do a quick episode on saving money on breakfast foods.
Breakfast food is so simple to make and cheap compared to most other foods! When I want to stretch our budget even further, we will add breakfast meals as dinner meals. In the season we are in right now with limited time, in order for my family to eat nutritious food every morning without spending alot of time, I have to have meals prepared usually ahead of time. I like my kids to start out their day with a healthy protein. We butchered a couple pigs this Fall, so we have plenty of breakfast sausage,ham and bacon, and we usually have eggs with all of our chickens now, so I like to make up a bunch of breakfast sandwiches and have some in the fridge and some in the freezer. I also like to make up breakfast burritos with eggs, ham, sausage, bacon and cheese. I make big batches and it will last for several weeks. I try to make a bunch of sourdough bagels, english muffins, and croissants for different sandwiches because that is much cheaper and healthier than buying bread, bagels and muffins at the store, but even if you have to buy those from the store and make the sandwiches up yourself, you are going to save a bunch of money rather than buying made up sandwiches. Another thing we like to have is breakfast bowls and those are similar to the sandwiches, just without the bread. Eggs are some of the cheapest and healthiest meals you can make and they are so versatile.
Many times I will just fry up sausage patties and bacon and just have it in the fridge and we use as we need it. It is so easy to just make everything at once so you only have to clean up once and you feel productive. I also like to make large batches of sweet breads and muffins and freeze into different portions because they are just so handy to have around.
Homemade granola is super simple to make and I talked about making your own yogurt on the last podcast and with those we like to make yogurt cups with layered yogurt, granola and fruit. Anything we can grab and go in the morning is nice to have on hand.
Instead of buying packaged waffles or pancakes, make your own and freeze them. Seriously, it is simple and they taste so much better.
When I have an abundance of eggs, I will also make up some egg bakes and freeze them. I love to put them in the refrigerator the night before and bake in the morning, but we will also have these for dinners as well. I do have my favorite eggbake recipe on the blog at claimingsimplicity.com if you want to try it yourself! It is great as leftovers too!
Another quick healthy breakfast idea would be overnight oats. We rarely eat oatmeal in our home, but that is another simple low cost nutritious option.
Take a morning once a month and make some of these items. I promise you that if you are buying expensive packaged items and you switch to making some of your own simple breakfast, you will see your grocery budget shrink significantly. Even if you implement making 1 new item per month, that will help to lessen your grocery budget!
Let me know if you try the eggbake on the blog and how your family likes it! I have been making this eggbake for 25 years and even the pickiest eaters love it!
If you are enjoying this podcast, you would also enjoy my short and sweet emails with tips to simplify, save money, and all things homesteading~just go to claimingsimplicity.com and join our newsletter list or check out the blog with recipes!
Website:
Join our Community of Christian Moms ->
https://www.facebook.com/groups/claimingsimplicity/
Email -> monica@claimingsimplicity.com
Instagram -> https://www.instagram.com/claimingsimplicity/
You Tube -> https://www.youtube.com/@claimingsimplicity/
Be Blessed Friend!
Monica

Monday Oct 23, 2023
Monday Oct 23, 2023
Happy Fall!!!
I have rarely ever bought packaged snacks simply because 25 years ago when my oldest kids were young, our grocery budget was very small and I had to stretch it with foods that filled my family up and lasted the longest.
In order for me to stay at home with our kids, I had to make sure I wasn’t overspending on any area because when the money was gone, it was gone because we didn’t have any credit cards. I got really good at spending very little by making everything homemade with ingredients that were cheap and filling. This often meant searching for recipes that used beans or pasta, but also delicious snacks.
I hear so many people spending several hundreds of dollars every week on snacks, so I just want to give you these super simple tips to make your dollar stretch further at the grocery store.
First, evaluate what snack you buy. Are they individually packed? Are you buying unnecessary items such as fancy waters or drinks? Could you make some of what you are buying very easily at home? The key to stretching your dollar further is knowing exactly what you are buying and what you can change.
So lets talk about individult packaged ANYTHING! I’m talking yogurts, chips, cookies, crackers……absolutely anything packaged this way is going to cost you so much extra money! So instead of buying individual bags of cheese its for example, buy a large box and separate into baggies yourself. This isn’t hard and it will save you a ton of money. If it is individual yogurts, just buy a large container and separate out into smaller containers. Instead
of buying individual packaged cheese, buy a big block and cut it yourself. I never did understand why someone would pay extra money for cheddar cheese in individual sticks-taste the same, but costs a ton more!!!!! These things do take a few minutes, but you will be happy when you see the savings you can make.
You may want to consider buying in bulk the things you use often. They may cost a little more up front, but last you much longer for a longer period of time.
Another way to save on groceries is to look at what you buy and see if you can easily make it. You know me…..i keep everything simple and I want you to also. You have no idea how simple some of your snacks can be to make. If it seems overwhelming to make your own snack, just start with one item a month and master that and add another the next month. Trail mix is a great snack that you can easily buy the ingredients in bulk and just dump together and it will a ton of save money. Another thing that is super simple to make is yogurt-not only is it simple to make, but it also is so much more nutritious.
I’m working on a course right now to teach you how to make these simple everyday products at home, so get on my email list if you want to be the first to learn about it when it is done!!!!!! The link to my website is in the description and you are not going to want to miss it! I had a granddaughter that liked uncrustables and I saw this tool for a couple bucks at the store the pinches edges together and they are another thing that is simple to make-you don’t have to have this tool to make them though! You can just cut the crust off of your peanut butter and jelly sandwich and place in a bag!
I absolutely love teaching you these simple systems to save money and make your life easier that I have learned over the years!
And next…..if you are buying muffins, cookies or snacks you can bake at home, find a recipe and if your kids are old enough, they can make them or you could make them together. When you price out ingredients to make several dozens of products, you will notice, you can only get a small portion of that for the same price. Sometimes it takes getting creative. If you think you don’t have time, then keep spending the extra money at the store! If you truely want to cut your grocery budget, this is something you can make time for and doesn’t take that long. Most recipes take less than 15 minutes to mix up!
I could go on and on and on about all the things you can make yourself, but I want to keep this episode short as always because I know you are a busy mom!
I would love for you to send me any of your favorite tips or tricks on saving money on snacks too because I always enjoy learning!!!!!!!
Website:
Join our Community of Christian Moms ->
https://www.facebook.com/groups/claimingsimplicity/
Email -> monica@claimingsimplicity.com
Instagram -> https://www.instagram.com/claimingsimplicity/
Have a wonderful day friend!
Monica

Friday Oct 20, 2023
Friday Oct 20, 2023
Hey Hey Friend
if you are not budgeting and spending large amounts of money and don’t know where every penny is going, it won’t seem like you are making anything and you need to be conscious of that. It is like a job, I’m sure you know people that get a pay increase, but because their spending goes up with it, they don’t even notice the additional income. I’m not saying that you won’t ever have a loss because there are season’s where you are doing alot of investing to grow and that is ok. I just want to give you some tips and encouragement if you feel like you can’t get ahead but you are dreaming of homesteading and simple living.
First, lets talk about mindset. You can do anything you put your mind to when you are partnering with God. You know that you get what you think about, so if you think you can’t make money, you probably won’t! If you think you can’t save money, you probably won't. Also, if you are in the scarcity mindset, that will keep you from achieving your goals as well. When you have control of where each penny goes, it will get you out of that mindset. Now, I’m not a mindset expert, so this is just from my experience and the experiences of people around me. When I gave a bigger % of my income away, I received more and that meant trusting God. Pay attention to what the Bible says……everything we have is His and when we steward well with little, he will give us much. Luke 16:10 from the Psssion Translation says the one who faithfully manages the little he has been given will be promoted and trusted with greater responsibilities. But those who cheat with the little they have been given will not be considered trustworthy to receive more. Sometimes we dont even realize we are not being faithful in the little things because it is something we have always done or it doesn’t seem like a big deal, but to God, those little things are big things. Pray for God to convict you of those little things that you are not even aware of.
Next, if you feel like everything is expensive, think about where you are looking for things. You don’t need a fancy looking chicken coop or buildings that costs you a fortune. You can also cut bottom of barrels off for waterers or feeding pails people give away, there are so many options when you think outside the box!
Now remember, I recommend starting small and growing as you learn because you don’t want to get in over your head financially or overwhelmed with too much to learn.
Buy used whenever possible. I was thinking about this as I have been putting off getting a new blender until I find one for a good price. I see kitchen aid mixers and big items like that on craigslist or swap and shops because sometimes people have good intentions to use something, but then don’t end up doing something they bought the item for. I get my kombucha jars free from restaurants and there are so many ways you can save money on your homestead!
I am always trying to find frugal ways to do things without being tacky or looking junky. So my handy husband goes to the dump and almost every time he brings something in, he finds something we can use on our farm. He has gotten wood we made animal pens with and raised gardens with. He got a rake to pull behind the 4 wheeler for our driveway and many many other item. He scores some pretty sweet deals so we don’t have to buy much new! Something else you can do is if you notice someone has something in their yard or field and they don’t use it, ask them if they want to sell. We have gotten pig huts and many other items that way as well. He gets free wood shavings from a lumber place and is always on the lookout for things we can use He is always picking up good pallets to build gates, shelters and other things too!
Our chicken coop just has tree branches across for the chickens to roost on and that has been amazing along with the free wood shavings he gets that we place on the floor that are easy to scoop up. A neighbor was putting new tin on their roof and he asked if he could take it and has made several buildings with that and they were happy they didn’t have to get rid of it. There are so many ways you can make your homestead nice without spending much money. We found used solar fencing this summer and that has been amazing to just put up and move the pigs easily in the woods. They sure enjoyed eating all those acorns!
Gas and groceries seem to be a large portion of our budget, so something you can do with gas is make your trips very intentional. Try to combine things together to make less trips if you can and the next episode I am going to talk about how to save money on snacks. I keep hearing people say that the snacks at the store have significantly increased in price, so I want to do an episode on how to save money on snack food from the grocery store.
I hope that you will consider trying out a few of these ways to save money and simplify so you can stop feeling stressed and overwhelmed and become profitable on your farm or homestead.
Website:
Join our Community of Christian Moms ->
https://www.facebook.com/groups/claimingsimplicity/
Email -> monica@claimingsimplicity.com
Instagram -> https://www.instagram.com/claimingsimplicity/
Love ya friend!
Monica

Monday Oct 16, 2023
Monday Oct 16, 2023
Hey Friend!
Homesteading can be a fulfilling lifestyle, but it can also be challenging to make a living solely through homesteading activities. However, there are several ways to generate income while homesteading:
- Sell your produce: Homesteaders can grow a variety of crops, fruits, and vegetables to sell at farmer's markets, local stores, or online marketplaces. You can also consider starting a Community Supported Agriculture (CSA) program, where customers can purchase a share of your harvest at the beginning of the season and receive a weekly box of fresh produce. You can sell eggs and sourdough, but those are things you would have to sell alot of to make a living, but a great way to bring in extra income!
- Raise livestock: You can raise animals such as chickens, cows, pigs, goats or sheep to sell their meat, milk, eggs, or fiber. You can also breed and sell livestock, or offer services like pet boarding, training, or shearing.
- You can create value-added products such as cheese, butter, jam, honey, soap, or candles using your harvest or livestock. These products have a higher profit margin and can be sold online or at craft fairs.
- You can host workshops, tours, or retreats on your homestead to teach people about homesteading skills, farming practices, or sustainable living. You can also offer lodging, camping, or glamping options for visitors.
- You can offer your skills and expertise as a freelance writer, photographer, web designer, or consultant to other homesteaders or businesses in your niche.
- If your homestead doesn't generate enough income, you can work with a company until you are making enough on your own or you can sell products from a company you use and align with your values. This is how I was able to transition from nursing. Growing a business while working full time lets you transition out of a job as you replace that income
It's essential to assess your skills, resources, and market demand before starting a homesteading business. You may need to obtain licenses, permits, or certifications depending on your business type and location. You should also develop a marketing plan, set realistic goals, and manage your finances carefully.
Love you friend!
Website:
Join our Community of Christian Moms ->
https://www.facebook.com/groups/claimingsimplicity/
Email -> monica@claimingsimplicity.com
Instagram -> https://www.instagram.com/claimingsimplicity/
DIY Cleaners ->https://claiming-simplicity.ck.page/best-diy-cleaners

Friday Oct 13, 2023
Friday Oct 13, 2023
Hello!
I'll discuss the essential supplies you need to keep your pantry well-stocked and becoming somewhat self-sufficient. Whether you're a seasoned homesteader or just starting your journey, you're bound to find some valuable insights in today's episode.
Let's talk about why having a well-stocked pantry is essential for homesteaders. In the last few years, the importance of self-sufficiency, food security, and being prepared had caused me to grow my pantry must haves to an even bigger list. Anything I don’t have to buy at the store is a bonus and I am continually learning! It is so amazing to me how simple it is to make many items and how you can save money on food making items yourself!
When deciding the amount of basic staple items to keep on hand, think about the amount of that item you use and how long you can store the item for. For instance, can goods last years, but items like flour only last 6 months in the pantry and you can put it in the fridge or freezer to last longer, but I don’t like to use up my room in those areas for flour, so I only buy enough for 6 months! Now I do go through alot of flour making sourdough, so I do buy it in bulk, but if you don’t use much of it, you can just buy a bag or 2 at a time.
One of the joys of homesteading is growing your food and preserving it! It sure grows your pantry quickly.
You will want your pantry to be fairly well-organized, and items should be rotated regularly. So that I use up the oldest item first, I always add what I buy the the back of the shelf so I am constantly using up the oldest items first to keep things from getting outdated.
Building a well-stocked pantry can be cost-effective if you know where to look. Buying in bulk on things you use alot of and also buying things when they are on sale can save money on your grocery bill.
Remember, your pantry is the heart of your homestead, providing you with security, sustenance, and the means to share with others. Whether you're a homesteading veteran or just starting out, building and maintaining a well-stocked pantry is a rewarding journey.
Website:
Join our Community of Christian Moms ->
https://www.facebook.com/groups/claimingsimplicity/
Email -> monica@claimingsimplicity.com
Instagram -> https://www.instagram.com/claimingsimplicity/
See ya next week!
Monica