How to Put 3 Homemade Meals on the Table Every Day

If you're a busy mom, but still want to get three homemade meals on your table EVERY day, then this Pantry Chat episode is for you!
I'm sharing my key strategies for getting three homemade meals on the table, every day! This is certainly no small feat with 13 mouths to feed in our house (plus frequent company), but there are some time-saving skills and strategies I use to make sure, even on the busiest of days, that I can still feed my family healthy, good, homemade food.
Links mentioned in this video:
- Meals on Your Shelf/Roasted Tomato Soup: homesteadingfamily.com/MOYS-f...
- Breakfast Casseroles: homesteadingfamily.com/MABC_YT
- Canned Beans: • Canning Black Beans Is...
- Canning 15 Minute Pantry Meals: • The Abundant Pantry: C...
- 20 Minute Meal (From Canned Food on the Shelf): • 20 Minute Meals (From ...
- Canned Stew: • Canning Stew: Make You...
- Homemade Bone Broth: • Can Your Own Chicken B...
Timestamps-
0:00 - Chit Chat
5:41 - Q & A
8:38 - Main Topic
9:37 - Breakfasts
11:25 - Lunches
13:45 - Dinners
14:30 - YOUR Routine
16:39 - Meal Planning
21:06 - Basics
~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~
MORE ABOUT US!
WELCOME! We're so glad you're here! Let's start growing, preserving & THRIVING! We are Josh and Carolyn Thomas. Together with our eleven children, we are The Homesteading Family where we’re living a self-sustainable life in beautiful North Idaho. Let us welcome you and show you a bit about us here: bit.ly/HFWelcomeVideo
Visit us at homesteadingfamily.com/ and on Facebook at / homesteadingfamily
A few highlights you don't want to miss are our FREEBIES!!
Click any of the links below for instant access to free video training resources:
Healthy Healing at Home - Learn how to confidently use herbal medicine in your home with this FREE 4 video workshop. homesteadingfamily.com/HHHyt
Your Best Loaf - A Free 4 video workshop teaching you how to make great bread at home, every time, regardless of the recipe you are using. homesteadingfamily.com/free-b...
Meals on Your Shelf - Can along with me! Learn to can and put jars of a delicious meal on your pantry shelf with this FREE video series. homesteadingfamily.com/MOYS-f...
Click any of the links below for instant access to these free downloadable PDFs:
- 5 Steps to a More Self Sufficient Life- Simple PDF download on 5 steps anyone can take wherever they are to start a more self-sufficient lifestyle.
classes.homesteadingfamily.co...
- Thrive Wellness Checklist- A simple PDF download for healthy living.
homesteadingfamily.com/TWC_YT
- Permaculture for Your Homestead- PDF download that is an introduction to permaculture with some strategies for applying it to one’s homestead and garden.
homesteadingfamily.com/PFYH_YT
- Carolyn’s Cottage Garden herb list- PDF with Carolyn’s favorite herbs for growing at home.
homesteadingfamily.com/CGHL_YT
- Carolyn’s Make-Ahead Breakfast Casseroles- Carolyn’s favorite make-ahead breakfast casseroles.
homesteadingfamily.com/MABC_YT
- Your FREE Guide to Preserving Eggs- PDF download with multiple ways to preserve eggs.
homesteadingfamily.com/Eggs_YT
- 5 Steps to a Healthy Garden- PDF download with an explanation of what makes healthy soil and 5 steps you can take to improve your garden
homesteadingfamily.com/5Steps...
- Save the Crumbs- Several Recipes for using bread leftovers, a less committal entry to bread than the workshop.
homesteadingfamily.com/STC_YT
- Fearless Fermenting- A PDF on basic lacto-ferments.
homesteadingfamily.com/FF_YT
- Fermenting Tomatoes- PDF download on fermenting tomatoes
homesteadingfamily.com/FT_YT
- Preserving Culinary Herbs- Downloadable, step by step directions to drying, freezing and salting culinary herbs.
homesteadingfamily.com/PCH_YT
- Render Your Own Lard- PDF with instructions on how to render your own lard.
homesteadingfamily.com/RYL_YT
#mealplanning #homemademeals #mealprep

[@twistedfrannie9311]

It's just my husband and myself but on Sundays I make a huge pot of homemade soup, 5 bean salad, and roasted chicken ,beef or pork meal . The roast gives us leftovers for sandwiches, hot or cold and we pack the salad and soup for lunches.

[@danesaredarlings4679]

Us two too! I love to cook big on Sundays for leftovers. My salad of choice is tabbouleh for me.

[@chrisbuckley8148]

I've lived 50 years without a knowing how to can food. I now find myself in need of a canning pot. Thanks a lot. I like your channel. It's a nice change from the news(crap) I tend to watch.

[@marthav2772]

I too started LATE to canning, just two years ago now and I so wish I had done it when my kids were little! I'm 73 now, my kids are grown and gone but I love to can now and have a full pantry to share with them...now!👍. Thank you Carolyn for all you teach and show! I've learned so much from you even at MY age! 😊

[@dianehall5345]

Hello Carolyn. I am a New Hampshire working farm wife. This channel is really helpful on so many subjects. Your comment regarding including the children in your chores and trying to make it joyful is important. My husband and his brother were raised on a working dairy farm with two other brothers, starting in the late 1940s. Native New Hampshire farmers are known for their "all work" ethic, few words an dry sense of humor. I see the outcome of that lifestyle in my husband and brother-in-law. They don't know how to play and take time off! At 74 and 71 they are out haying and working 24/7. I was fortunate to have been raised with N.H. farmers on one side of the family, with a more modern 1950s country/suburban family on the other side. My mother was a nurse and a "Mrs. Cunningham" and I was "Joanie" . I am trying to strike a balance between the two and I am the ONLY woman on the farm! So I am trying to take the best of 1935 and the best of today. I have a strong feeling that will prove very helpful in today's " NEW NORMAL" . The "boys" are learning to relax a bit more and enjoy taking a break to have some fun. Our large farm is now our new world. No visitors and customers are required to social distance and wear masks. What model kitchen wood stove do you have? I have a 1930 Home Comfort and will send a photo if I find your email. We live both on an off-grid, especially during winter. So happy to see you and your husband living this lifestyle!

[@BrainStormAcres]

Very good advice to get your kids involved doing chores. We had two children - one boy and one girl. They’re both well out of the house. Both were taught basic mechanical skills, woodworking, plumbing, and electrical. Both can sew and are excellent cooks having learned at home. We live off grid 5 miles from a paved road, and both of us can do anything the other can - but we gravitate towards different things on our homestead. Thanks for sharing.

[@yuhz1m1]

Very useful video. I'm going to call it "planning in grace" as opposed to "planning to fail". Because it's not failure, it's just life 🤷🏿‍♀️

[@YeshuaKingMessiah]

When u plan so u don’t fail u will see how not planning means u choose to fail

[@celestebinus6142]

What a beautiful thought!! Thank you!

[@lindaarnold3091]

Great advice to young parents and just slow down and for encouraging them to have quiet time.

[@Ee4yh8rg]

I ❤ how shes encouraging people to not compare themselves to someone else but to slow down. There will always be super dads and super moms with a GOD given ability to work miracles but most of us will simply get most things done or some things done and if we can do that with a good attitude...we win.

[@Loosgroov10]

Making christmas breakfast and dinner with Carolyn today because I do not have an open floor plan in my 100 year old house and everyone is off playing and snacking and watching the parade. haha! I'm enjoying myself! Thanks for all these chats to keep me company!

[@Drestic]

I am 31 and watching you makes me feel like my entire life has been wasted. I wish my parents taught me this stuff.

[@BeingLifted]

Thanks, Carolyn! I want to add that you're so blessed to still have both parents. I wish you thousands more beautiful memories.

[@jasontooley9883]

I would love to see your weekly chore list.

[@jdurnal]

Jason Tooley would be a good video.

[@adriaharding1783]

Me too

[@Jenny.MG82]

Yes!

[@jodylund5477]

Me tooooo

[@celestebinus6142]

Me too!

[@debjarvie-sexton1609]

I raised 4 and had an in home daycare. I made french toast 2 loaves of bread 2 griddles going. Pancakes a whole box of mix or homemade. Put in Gallon zip and kids can heat in microwave... Egg bites in Instapot. Quiche and Casseroles are great.

[@kassrripples3659]

I’ve found when my family eats natural meat with its natural fats and leafy greens and fermented vegetables they eat less often and feel full enough to only eat 1-2 meals a day.

[@carolschedler3832]

We have the same experience

[@gracesoule3754]

My little ones have to eat more often. My husband could do two solid healthy meals but the little ones no way not yet. 😁

[@Silverstreamhomecrafts]

I completely agree I very rarely eat three meals a day even when I'm out in the garden all day

[@YeshuaKingMessiah]

My kids are nauseated in mornings without breakfast. Starving at night without dinner. I IF myself, 2-3 hr window. They just can’t get there. They’re still growing I think-14&16yo. I put fat in their porridges and lentils & rice too plus fullfat dairy, besides fatty meats and dip or dressing for vegs. Butter in cooked vegs.🤷🏼‍♀️

[@rebeccamorris1032]

Watching this 2 years later and still as relevant and helpful! I commented 2 years ago as well such great tips!

[@amyziesmer5189]

SUCH AN AWESOME QUESTION BETHANY! We are now raising 5 grandbabies and starting over has been a huge challenge. CAROLYN AND JOSH YOU ARE SUCH BLESSINGS!

[@SuperLovetolisten]

Amy Ziesmer God bless you taking on five grand babies! I know so many grandparents living for themselves and completely ignoring the beauty and honor it is for children to have them. (I’m speaking of my own family and many of my friends families). Bravo to you !

[@SuperLovetolisten]

We have chickens and thankfully my kiddos want eggs & toast almost every day. Sometimes I’ll mix it up and make French toast, pancakes or muffins. I do like bagels & cream cheese on occasion.

[@amyziesmer5189]

@@SuperLovetolisten Thank you! We have had 3 for right at 3 years now, and a few months ago gained the 3 year old and now 10 month old...LOL...GOD IS SOOO GOOD! Today is my 52nd Birthday...I honestly remember a day that I never thought I would live to see myself have children...My husband is such a Blessing! We just hit our 4 year Anniversary a couple of weeks ago! We are Ministers, Have a fully practicing Organic Homestead/Farm in the Ozarks...a homebased Biz and my Husband is currently still working Fulltime as a letter carrier for USPS...Busy is our middle middle name LOL...I love the extra help we get from all of Carolyn and Josh's tips! Especially since we are moving to be fully sustainable and even more grid free and conventional med-free! 🤗🥰🙏

[@justsara_noh]

I know this is from years ago but your advice of the midday break is SO true. It makes a WORLD of difference. It’s a standard thing in a lot of cultures but not the US.

[@wooby9898]

I’ve sewn since I was around 7 my grandmother thought me. I spend fall/winter sewing gifts and quilts just enjoying making.

[@tessschwartz8395]

I’m just amazed at all you do and the amount of knowledge you have! I am 26 with a 16 month daughter and always trying to streamline our meals but only recently started meal planning and it helps so much but I have so much more to learn and put into practice! So inspired! ❤️

[@smas3256]

Sales is when to stock up. I like some store brands better than expensive brands. Those large containers of spices and mixed spices are excellent when you can't grow it yourself. Sometime when an herb is in season you can buy it fresh. Get white cotton thread and let them air dry just to try it. Always wash them good first. I save jars with the lids to save left overs in or dried herbs shelf stable. Label what it is or you'll forget like I do.

[@MichaelEllis1]

Great video, Carolyn. I'm single and live in NYC. Still I'm trying to build those habits into my life. I appreciate all of your tips.

[@bearrivermama6414]

Michael Ellis that is fantastic! I'm sure there are some challenges that come along due to living in the city and I'm sure there are some advantages 👍🏻 I gotta give you props because I bet it's not always easy to resist all the tempting tastes around every corner! For us the closest restaurant or eatery of any kind is 35 miles away. Kinda makes it easy to resist 😂

[@MichaelEllis1]

@@bearrivermama6414 hardest part is storage. I'm lucky to have outdoor space for a small garden. Keeping squirrels from eating everything is a big challenge. Next year I'm getting a slingshot! Farmer's markets are great but expensive. I make everything I can from scratch. Never going to live the pioneer lifestyle here, but doing what I can to get back to basics in the city. And a night out on the town is a real treat about once every couple months.

[@bearrivermama6414]

Michael Ellis that is great that you scratched out a little garden space in the concrete jungle 😊. Squirrels can be a pain! But the biggest pain here are the deer. They mow every thing down over night! Flowers and food and then bat there Betty Davis eyes at you 😠. Can't fault the deer, they are just hungry but those goofy squirrels! We had a shed that they had chewed a hole in and they had mushrooms and pine cones and acorns lined up like a prepper lines up can goods. They are hoarders! Ever support in the wall had a perfect row of lined up mushrooms drying for winter!

[@ISa-jy8ol]

@@MichaelEllis1 sprouting is another good idea for limited space in the city!

[@sherryllynnjones7077]

@@bearrivermama6414 😂😂😂 🙏❤🙏

[@dmay7648]

I have to start cooking dinner around lunch time when everyone is calm and I have plenty of time, usually that means I cook it during nap time right after lunch and keep it warm for dinner time.

[@angiebrowere5124]

❤thanks for your content 😊 my mom cooked EVERYTHING from scratch🎉 we definitely got spoiled ❤ I raised my baby's that way and have been blessed to continue with my grand babies 💕

[@2many4now]

When my kids and grandkids was little, I would make up a bucket of soapy water until the kids to put on their bathing suits. After pouring water all over my floors I would give them dirty towels and rags and dirty clothes and have them scrub the floors on their hands and knees, while slip and sliding. They still talk about how much fun that was. It was always good for a day when they were stuck in the house.

[@jsmarek9687]

I enjoy this video. Watched many of your videos. My husband and I work. I like how you over time developed systems to make healthy meals every week. I want to work on these ideas you talked about when I'm well

[@lynsmith2698]

This was a great video even for us who are retired. I make everything pretty well from scratch too but get so sick of cooking and coming up with dinner ideas. Thanks so much 🌷🇨🇦

[@victorenecahill9013]

I put up Beef Barley soup and Split Pea and Ham. I keep 28 its of each. It is so easy for all those days when things go wrong.

[@kassrripples3659]

Look forward to watching you leap into zero waste... I’ve been doing more hand sewing and basic sewing lately... I made an apron and some carry bags from reclaimed fabric from goodwill.

[@fionafiona1146]

"low waist" is the less discouraging term in long changes. *for your information, I can come across as very rude😅

[@amandawilliams2266]

Very cool !

[@madhouse7364]

Consider gathering animal feed sacks locally. I cut and craft them into tote bags superior to grocery store bags. I imagine they will make lots of great items.

[@pameladecicco6509]

@@madhouse7364 Hey, Dolly Parton's clothes, amongst many others were sewed from those. There you go.

[@YeshuaKingMessiah]

She handmakes all meals, buys in bulk, grows a ton of food, prob cloth diapers. They don’t run around but stay home, conserving gas. When someone does all that then the little things don’t add up to worry about.

[@Pantrychatter]

Carolyn, I appreciate best the times you make time to address organizing systems. I LOVE to be organized so much. But I don’t find it easy. So thanks for this opportunity to stop and think!

[@christeljulia]

Such such good advice. I had four under the age of six at one point. Often felt like I was just treading water, but my daughter Margaret, 39 years old and living in San Francisco, still remembers making homemade raised doughnuts together, with "all hands on deck" when she was five. I loved watching this vid-- it brought back sweet memories.

[@justjenn9011]

I just love your channel! I always go through your videos and watch them. Sometimes I rewatch them just to make sure I understand what your saying and any instructions. I only have one little one, well, big now haha. He is 10, almost 11, he was born 16 days after my 21st birthday, so I was never in a hurry to have more children. I wanted to enjoy the time with him and be together as a small fanily. And we have for almost the past 11 years now. But now since hes almost a teenager, we find ourselves wanting alot more children. Almost like you haha. We love children and would love to have more, my sister has 2 little ones and one thats only 4 months younger than mine, their best friends, and I just love being around them so much. So watching your videos in preparedness for that is great for me. I have always gardened and sowed, little things, but ive strated canning and crocheting and really getting back to the basics. I hope to one day have a homestead like you guys do. I think your just wonderful people and just great role models and i truly aspire to be like yall. God bless. Much love being sent to all of you.

[@SpiritHawk]

“If you fail to plan, you are planning to fail.” Excellent quote! Thanks :)

[@cleopatraselene712]

You are a blessed lady! I love how you engage your kids into this! Well done to you and your family! Thank you for sharing!

[@suzannerowe6308]

Love you guys and what you do! I appreciate that you tape your lives so that I can view them when I have time.

[@whitepinehomestead]

I am so grateful for these videos and your willingness to share your knowledge with others!

[@mcdowell1953]

You are such a sweet organized wife and mama. You are such an inspiration.

[@Mindmaid1]

Thank you for all the encouragement and ways to keep our families healthy with links to help us do them ourselves!

[@colliecoform4854]

Another great tool is the instapot. It will cook frozen meat or just a last minute stew or pot roast or pulled pork, etc. It has saved me from those days when I realize the meat is still in the freezer or I forgot to put the pot roast on. I did not get one for several years and then when I did get one for Christmas I didn't use it. My daughter got me started on it and now it gets used at least once a week. The meat comes out so tender.

[@jenniszafranski6360]

Fantastic video! This is one of my favorites... Thank you so much for sharing so many great tips!

[@amandawilliams2266]

All great ideas ! The one about meal planning and planning for those days when everything fails lol that's what I was missing and really needed . Thanks so much Carolyn

[@alexandradiane8700]

Your advice is inspiring. Your channel has given me so much to think about!

[@janpearce7465]

I have raised 2 generations and have found that when training children to do chores at a young age, they are not very capable but are very willing. If you wait until they are capable, they are not willing!!

[@northstarprepsteader]

Super video Carolyn! It's been many years since I was done with homeschooling, but having a weekly menu and planning was so important for us during that time in order for things to go smoothly, and for me not to get frustrated/harried. Blessings!

[@MrsTheClown]

Wonderful tips Carolyn, thank you so much!

[@terrafirma75]

I just adore you. I always find your information so useful and unique. Thank you for sharing what you know and your lives with us 🙏🏻

[@oliviaarnest5536]

Goals, goals, goals! You and your classes AND your videos are really getting me together over here!!!

[@jennm2689]

Carolyn thank you for giving me so many ideas for meals. These plan ahead ideas are a way for me as a working away from home mom to still have nutritious meals on the table.❤️

[@tarahskinner923]

Refreshing! i sooooo appreciate a young Lady (mum) like You! sooooo needed In this day and age! Lovely Clip! Thank You for sharing . . .

[@angelenerash5160]

I love even just having canned meat on the shelf. Along with canned or frozen veggies or the addition of rice makes a quick meal. Great advice! Thank you for sharing!

[@kathleenroman9379]

Love your joyful & thankful attitude. Life is such & the best lessen for life! ❤️❤️🙏❤️❤️

[@monkeyanger00]

I love your advice and tips because I know they are tried and tested. Thank you so much x

[@themooresarmyoffour3923]

I love your wood stove!! Thanks for all your videos, I really appreciate them!

[@lariegonzalez3631]

Hello, I love all your videos, advice and teaching us how to do our own food. Love it going back to basics. I would love to see a video on sewing, how to start and all the basics on it. Thank you for putting all your wisdom in videos for someone like me that I’m a visual learner. Many blessings

[@RoseThistleArtworks]

Wow. This is so helpful. Thank you for sharing these tips. Best wishes for the happy new house project, too.

[@trenaoquinn753]

Love your pantry chats ❤️

[@ellencaswell5509]

I’m new to the program this is something I been wanted to know this I’m so excited about this program thank you so much

[@birth.at.homestead3215]

Thank you so much for this video! It's exactly the encouragement I needed to get new systems in place! I have a house full of little too. My oldest is 6.5 but very capable and loves the kitchen work, I'm going to put her on sourdough pizza dough and focaccia duty now. I am up early with the baby (4:30 a.m. with the daylight savings time change) and paused your video to print of the breakfast casserole recipes and threw a batch of the baked oatmeal in my oven!

[@shanderela]

I just found your channel and have been enjoying the chat. You remind me so much of my sister that I lost a few years ago, She was so smart and lovely And I imagine that she's watching from heaven with me learning some handy home skills! XOXO god bless your beautiful family

[@amandameredith5355]

This was so encouraging to me as a mom of littles! Thank you!!!!!❤❤❤

[@KatiePitre1]

These are definitely some awesome goals to work toward. Thank you!!

[@sirenemily]

I wish we learned these things in school. I've got two young children and would have loved to know this before becoming a parent!! Thank you so much for the great tips, I love your channel! We're aiming towards %100 sustainability here on the Big Island of Hawaii.

[@patwilliamson4701]

Always enjoy pantry chat. Great information thank you.

[@sherryellesson9665]

Carolyn, great video! I liked your concepts of getting systems, rather than one-time techniques, in place. When I was still in the workforce, I spent Saturdays catching up with laundry and Sunday, there were at least three 9x13 dishes in the oven or two plus the crockpot going, so when I got home from work every day, there was wholesome food ready. The years when I worked two jobs and got home at 5:00 and was back out the door by 5:30 meant I had to bring a big lunch bag and have my "dinner" at my desk around 4:00, but it worked and now retired, I'm still "above ground and vertical." lol Have a great week!

[@cyndiburns7932]

I cleaned and did laundry in Saturdays. Sunday afternoon after church I cooked and made all kinds of sides and froze them. The every morning got up early, cut up veggies, and made a homemade soup, stir fried a few veggies to add to a pocket sandwich with a bit of meat left over from suppers I would freeze for lunch that day. Read my Bible while eating some soup for breakfast. Then I headed off to work. It worked. But I was young and had lots of energy. It doesn't work for me now. That was about dirty years ago.

[@tanarehbein7768]

One of your best practical videos.

[@pxxxb3756]

I make breakfast burritos and stick them in the freezer for early mornings. I'm thinking about trying breakfast sandwiches.

[@channellwoods]

Love your content it is very helpful. I love the fact you are getting away from wasting thing would like to hear where you are with it. Its very inspiring to me. Thanks

[@wagnerfamily2043]

Loved your answer to the young mom’s question. Regarding meal planning: what if you kept old meal plans and used those when you don’t have time to sit and figure it all out?

[@carriekayak8530]

The way you have organized your channel is beautiful!

[@Karen19820]

Wow! Just finding your videos. I’m very encouraged. Thanks. ⭐️

[@tinaspears6769]

I know it’s a year later lol but I’m a newbie & I binge watch your videos 😂😂😍😍 thank you for lots of helpful advice & tips. You’re always so kind & include real life examples. I’m learning so much. Thank you for sharing. You have a beautiful family & homestead. God Bless ✌🏻💚🙏🏻

[@karenheider4138]

I have learned how to pressure can, so I love to can roasts complete with the veggies and every thing in it. So I spend a whole day canning a whole bunch of roast or chicken stew or spaghetti sauce, then I have dinner ready later by just opening a jar and heating it up.

[@Grandmaschallie]

Thank you so much for your videos. You are wise beyond your years. I am 71 years young and have learned so much from you. May God bless you and your family.

[@thewitchykitchen]

We have a very similar system in our house. The difference though is, that my kids now are young adults with work and school. They all still live at home, since rent prices are super high in our area. Because we all are older, we don’t fell like we need three meals a day, and are getting by with two wholesome homemade nutritious meals. Breakfast is usually mid morning for us, between 10 and 11 am, and Dinner are served around 4 pm. Because we only get two meals, and I am not a morning person either, I also do bulk breakfast prep. I like to keep breakfast loafs, waffles both sweet and savory, baked oatmeal (without oats), French toast, quiche, bagels, and breakfast sandwiches in the freezer. I probably forgot some of the stuff I make and freeze for that. Dinner are usually made by my son and I, either together or we take turns. We do meal planning too, and it helps a lot. I do, do a lot of vegetable prep too, that I keep in the freezer. It’s just convenient to have things like onions already chopped, and it saves time too. I also make a dessert most nights. While they are high in carbs, they are usually also low in sugar, and finishing the meal this way takes care of sugar cravings. Like you I also have canned meals on my shelf. Our favorites are chicken pot pie, chicken curry, beef stew and Salzburg steak. The rest of the day, we have snacks available, like hummus, raw prepped veggies, fresh fruit, crackers etc. canning, preserving and being smart with our time, does make life easier.

[@rebeccamorris1032]

Thank you for your tips on little ones. I also have 5 children, 4 5 and under. It can be a little chaotic at times.

[@bluebutterflywellness2273]

Good stuff, Carolyn! I think I'm going to work the freezer system for now. 😊

[@kassrripples3659]

Such a great question Bethany. I am the elder sister from a family of 6 children. My eldest brother was born in 1971 and my youngest sister was born in 1981. Two sisters, three brothers no twins. My Mum also worked part-time as a nurse and Dad FT as a teacher plus had a weekend business. Reminds me of some things I learnt when I was 10-14... I remember having a great street with neighbors teenagers older than us who come over to help my Mum a bit.

[@christysdeals4u]

In the cold months I mostly use a crockpot. I make a whole chicken and when it's done I make a whole can of steel cut oats and alternate. This way we always have something ready to eat.. can flavor oatmeal however you want, etc.

[@susan3200]

Love this one!

[@PTDoc]

Thank you for all your videos!!

[@patriciavyce7942]

Your fantastic !👍🏻”God bless and keep you and your family safe always.🕊”

[@kellyalbertson962]

My first video of yours I've seen. You're my hero and my inspiration!! I don't say those things lightly, either. I've been watching a lot of self sufficiency, homesteading, pantry tours, gardening for all year, etc videos, but this gives me ideas and showing me where I've been doing too much myself. But, I have an adult stepson coming to live with us soon and routines were going to have to change then, so this is perfect timing to start revamping everything :) Our younger boy loves to make butter and whipped cream already (not that we do that often), and I just got a kombucha scoby, so I'll teach him how to do that, too, among other things. He's canned pineapple jam a few years back, but I think it's time to get him doing a lot more... definitely. I'm moving to organic, non-monsanto foods, so there is a big transition already going on in the house. Looking forward to more of your videos. Thank you so much for sharing!

[@bethanyg153]

My convenience meal is tuna, seasoned pasta or rice side, little shredded cheddar and horseradish. I just cook it all together on the stovetop. (Horseradish cuts the fishy-ness)

[@KatyInNH]

Excellent video! As I have been making more meals o. This journey, I write them on my calendar and spreadsheet so I can look back for inspiration

[@lnccarpenter]

I can't wait to try your breakfast casserole recipes. New subscriber and I am binging.

[@ruthmcbride1778]

Awesome. You are so organized. Thanks

[@kimberlydelagarza8899]

So thankful for your answer to the Mama of 5 under 5. I need more advice on this stage. Homesteading with littles is so much harder than I thought. Any other advice on this season would be so appreciated. I grew up in a small family that weren’t joyful at all so I’m taking all the advice I can get to be a better more joyful Mom.

[@asiangoddesscottagelifegar7137]

I'm Asian Philippines born. And up in the mountains - we have no toilet paper. We use warm water and soap to wash everytime we go to washroom. 💕. Been in Canada since '85 and still use water to wash unless I'm out in public.

[@srgs98]

I love videos like this because no one taught me how to cook or do anything homemade. Thank you for being the one to do it 😢❤

[@dreamlivinghomestead7128]

You have given me some great ideas and thank you for that!

[@pameladecicco6509]

Girl, you are doing it right. You are an example, and people best listen. I am here in Ireland, with a boil water notice for the second time here in Dublin. This is a reminder of why y'all are such an example. I used to live in rural northeast, U.S.. Had it right. I must move to the country here. Bless. Family is right.Justin Rhodes just lost his Pa (Boots) . Bless.❤

[@bettyescookingchannel]

Thanks for sharing your tips.

[@kristinatoole9746]

I love the question about littles. I have 9, 6, 3, 1 year old twins, and another in March. We struggle just to keep the garden going with our pigs and chickens also. It's nice to not feel like we are going through these struggles alone. I'm looking forward to the twins walking better. I think it will make getting outside easier.

[@edieboudreau9637]

Kristina Toole twins do make it a bit more of a struggle. Don't give up!!! I've got twins myself.

[@vivians9392]

WOW!!!!!

[@kaylynnfox]

Just started following you guys! Enjoying and we are in our sixties. Please encourage us older folk ! And tips appreciated. On gardening tips please!

[@lindagullage3077]

your casseroles will make great meals for my grandchildren next year when I will be in charge of them quite often

[@sheilajaroniewski1297]

I love your channel. Always crosses my mind just how many canning jars you have. I just counted mine and was shocked to realize how many I have.

[@sheilaperl4155]

Wonderful tips and video!

[@joannenalewyko9091]

Great video!!!

[@czechgirl74]

You and your family are simply AMAZING!!! Btw, you are so beautiful..your hair is just like that of a princess! Thanks for inspiring us!!

[@carolynjordan4633]

I'm new to you're chanel , so far I like what I see.🌟🌟🌟🌟🌟 Spring is trying to slowly come in , we are getting excited about planting gardenHave a fantastic day.God Bless

[@kingspal99]

Well said about the kids... everything you do invite them !!! Let me share, smiles. Every morning breakfast is started after all the rooms are done and everyone was dressed, reminding them we can get breakfast after that or till we can get this done, hungry works in your favor, ( if they are not cooperating at first you need to get up earlier till that is working, then change later) Stay with them till they are at least 12 years...yes 12... that is the age they stop helping in bedroom setups...aka, cleaning so to get over the hump, you must be there uplifting the older ones and younger ones will be encouraged. Older ones can start helping with breakfast 'cause they have learned to get rooms set up for another day, letting older ones give out chores to breakfast duties to little ones ( and you respect their choices, adjustments are made in private ) singing, and radio are very helpful...saying nice things is a good way to set the day. Spilt up kids... hubby and wife so they are interested in you and not bored. The time will come when an older child will need others in your extended family to come into play an important special project that only belongs to them...given the right attention that will pay off big. Uplift older children out loud, that they are known to have knowledge why 'cause looking up, are their siblings, wanting to be all " grown-up" and get that respect, older children are the leaders it does so much good as to respect in the family for their work and growth. Tell your children free time comes from things getting done, fast... but right, so you don't have to do it again, ( but keep your promise to do something fun or give some out free time) If they are messy children, say I wanted to......fill in the blank....today but we have to get this right ( done). Pick a time for chores well known to be right before something " they wanted to do" that will be good for getting choirs done ( older kids) Younger children will wash dishes could be done outside in a open area all set up so ur floors will not rot from water. If they hate to bathe then put up a shower or bath outside it will be fun. What you do now, is how they will behave later. Mine are grown, we are very close it worked...when they moved out friends would call come let do this or that ...mine came home to do stuff and like the fact we were together...cause we treated them right. Treat your children's needs as a reunion/ togetherness ....keep little ones snacks in ur pockets giving them out as needed for a good mood let older ones do that too. Put stuff in a sun over after breakfast or a one pot if you cook, when you cook, make extra to put together for other meals ( rice, spaghetti -then baked cheese on top, soups, leftovers are your friend, make some meals simple peanut butter and jelly, cut up lots of snacks to mix, choose ur favorites to mix, mine is salty nuts with raisins on hot days even sandwich bags or cloth bags with vegs cuts with cheese to take on long days in barns, garden work, yard work or just eat right out of the garden... find a tree or bush with food...fat booms are great no-cook food too. We had a swimming pool near our garden and a dirt pile mountain with sand was a great place for some peace ( you know) In the kitchen put up a white picket fence around stove...spills never happened...nope, while things are hot but that is a good time for their coloring put up on the fridge, or hang on a close line on the wall going over spelling plastic letters on refrigerator or history acted out in a play writing can be from the older child's ability to write that play... let older ones read, calling out the recipe for u A good "backpack" for the littlest one to get together their things while ur outside or sowing. Outside chores... different color of dirt, sand, clay, and brown dirt makes a great glass bottle color book...worm, bugs houses, once mine built as an underground play house prompted up by tree limbs ( just a hill with plastic on top then layered with leaves ) or painting rocks if you clean outside stop ✋ let the kids make things, play, brush and pet time while y'all talk and while you shoveling tells old family stories...work it everywhere you want them to love what is going on. Swimming in the creek after cutting grass or a good mud pile while ur doing a garden can be ur quiet time a hose and soap can fix any dirt( keep them nearby always) A game is great if there is a competition in our system or work gets done great for school it works. I used flashcards, my favorite helpers, and give answers in a time like maybe 3 seconds ...running to a box with cards to know before they through it in or bring it back and get in line again. The answerer is ur friends give out free cause """the reputation teaches.""" Go to first base then you get answers to get a home run outside or inside we had a wall like a field with numbers, letters, etc... Flashcards were used for every subject Math, English, and Spelling, they wrote as needed some printed or cut puts from magazines to put up on maps. Other homeschooling families would sell their supplies, I bought the nice used cards.. I found a big gym, which we used at a community center, during school time why because all those games taught my children " to play as a team" and work together I need a team to get it done use together time to get your family in order ' cause you are going to live in same house... discipline has a name work as one under the Lord He is in charge.

[@janfarrar4809]

My husband and I have just converted to cloth washable toilet paper for light use. I will be making more by hand to increase the supply and make laundry day every couple of weeks. Also will be making hankies for us as well. Again I will keep adding more to our supply so we can wash every two weeks. We stopped at our favorite thrift store and picked up cotton baby towels and receiving blanks. They are soft and have been washed many times. This limits chance of shrinkage. And repurposes items already used and loved.

[@kristinbishop6476]

I need a pressure canner.... this is such great encouragement!! Thank you! :)

[@elfwoodadventures2103]

Another great idea with little ones is to make a game of chores. It does not have to be competitive. Also if you homeschool, including a chore with the lessons may take some thought on your part but the children will learn something by doing that. Working together produces some awesome results!!