Seriously, I’m tapped out! No frugal tips, no homemaking ideas, no craft projects, or recipes. I have a half a dozen posts in the works, but I don’t have the time to upload pictures, finish them up and publish.
So it’s your turn. Introduce yourself, give me a tip, ask a question, tell me a random fact. I know there are a lot of you lurking out there, time to come out of hiding and say hello!
If you ask a question, I’ll do my best to give you an answer in the comment section, unless of course I get long winded and turn it into a post… 🙂
Sara says
I also read your blog regularly and never comment. I am a Navy Officer’s wife, with baby #4 on the way, homeschooling mom, and bargain shopper. Your blog has been encouraging to me this year, knowing that there are other Navy families serving the Lord, having kids, and homeschooling.
Betsy says
I have been a “lurker” too for many months, but your blog has inspired me to cut down on our grocery spending. Not quite to the level you do it, but I’ve gone from spending $300+ a week for my family of 5 to around $125 a week.
It’s not been fun, but we are making it work. I am learning to love my crockpot.
I don’t have any questions, just some encouragement. You are doing a great job (even on your off days:)
TheHappyHousewife says
Betsy-
I am curious why it hasn’t been fun to cut back on your grocery bill? Is it because you have given up some favorite meals?
AriannaFan says
I love your blog! My family structure changed overnight from 2 people to 4 people and I have been having a hard time with financial planning. Not everyone is on board with the savings I am trying to set up. How can I get them involved?
Jennifer H. says
Hi there! I’m Jennifer from Indianapolis and my hubby and I have been married for 18 months next week. We’re looking forward to starting a family and we already live frugally. I love your blog and work full-time now, but my heart is at home. We both want me to stay home once we have children. My husband is finishing seminary and we don’t know where we’ll end up, but we’d like to stay near family. Keep up the great work!
Marnie says
Hi, my name is Marnie and I am a volunteer with ,”The Veterans’ Voice.” I honor our Troops and Veterans , past and present as heroes because without them we would not have our freedom. I am the wife of a 100% T&P disabled combat Marine who served 2 tours in Nam. I am very patriotic and I am a Christian. I live in a small town in Montana. I was born in N.C.
God Bless ,
Marnie
http://www.theveteransvoice.com
http://www.theveteransvoice.com/hero.html
momstheword says
Hi Toni! I was reading your blog in my reader, like I always do, and just had to pop over and just say that I love your blog, and it is understandable that you’re busy!
You have a big family and I am amazed that you can do what you do, girl!
So just do what you can and don’t stress, o.k? I wish I had a question but can’t think of one off the top of my head.
Wendy says
I’ve commented here before, but never introduced myself. I’m Wendy, 37 yo, a homeschooling mom to two boys, 10yo and 5 months. My DH and I were dual military (wet met and married in the navy) but since have become civilians.
I don’t know how I wound up here, but your love story hooked me to your blog. I’ve enjoyed your posts too, btw!
My tip is if you turn cottage cheese, yogurt, or sour cream upside down in the fridge they last longer.
I haven’t been reading long (maybe a couple months) so maybe you’ve already answered this somewhere, but what led you to homeschool?
klutzymama says
Don’t feel bad – my blog post today was about how I went into the library today with my pants unzipped. Talk about hurtin’ for some material!
Angel says
Random tip….I know you compost but keep banana peels separate & use them with fertalizer for rose bushes.
Random fact…my kids are 8 years apart in age
Baking tip….if using a cake mix from a box substitute butter for oil, evaporated milk for water & add 1 tbs sugar. The butter adds flavor, the milk adds calcium & the sugar makes it moist moist moist.
Jackie R. says
Ooh, thanks for the cake mix tip. I can’t wait to try it!
TheHappyHousewife says
YUM, I’m going to try this next time I make a cake!
Mindy says
Well I am giving you a tip i use at home.
For ear infections I buy garlic capsuls ( oderless, unless you want your children to smell like an Italian deli ) Poke a hole in it and drip the oil into the ear.
this is so better than antibiotics any ol day
Mel says
I’m just a lurker saying hello. I enjoy your blog.
Cara says
Hey there! I’m Cara, former estate planning attorney, now a SAHM to my 2 year old son. Just wanted to say that I was particularly interested in your series on picky eaters (from a while back), especially since you mentioned that one of your kiddos was diagnosed with FTT. I just wrote about my son’s picky eating and FTT recently. Such a struggle! Anyway, it was nice to know that I’m not the only one out there dealing with this. 🙂 Love your blog!
Amity says
new lurker, Air Force wife, mom to 5 fantastic kiddos, stationed in Alaska.
My question–how do you fit your kids into your home? Do you have a sleeping room and a playroom or a family closet? Do you use double beds and double up kids or does everyone have their own twin?
And how do you keep toys in check??
If you’ve already blogged about these things–I’d love the links.
Thanks!
Cherrill says
Toni you are such a blessing. I don’t remember how I came about your blog however, I was so taken by your story I couldn’t stop reading you have since been bookmarked in the computer. I am also doing a menu plan. I am a credit card junkie I buy multiples when it is a good deal wether I need it or not(that has stopped thanks to you!) I am now only paying cash and hope to help my hard working husband slow down. We have 5 kids and all but 2 are gone from home with one of those being 10 and the other 18 on Monday Happy Birthday to us as we share the same day. I also love photography and baking.
My hint: check out http://www.southernplate.com Christy has a lot of wonderful meals that are relatively cheap. God bless your family and thank you for blessing mine.
Cherrill
Sheila says
…and I spell very well. “Are” kids should be “Our” kids are homeschooled (by their very competent mother, as you can see).
Sheila says
I have no questions. I have nothing creative to say, therefore, I do not blog.
But, I love reading yours!
I am expecting our sixth child (on earth) in a couple of weeks – like, hopefully next weekend. Are kids are homeschooled, my husband’s doing a chaplain residency at a big hospital right now. I love to bake, cook, decorate cakes/cookies, shop Ebay, save money, watch movies, and eat food. Lots of delicious food.
Jackie R. says
Ooh I love ebay! I got a VERY nice wool coat on there (came in the mail today) for $30 – more than I’d generally spend on a coat, but I’ve been overdue for a good one!
Also, I’m a foodie 😉
Melessa says
I may have commented once or twice before, but I consider myself a lurker here. A year ago, I found out I was pregnant with a very unexpected 5th baby. The other four were in school and I had to quit my job to return to SAHM status. In the months leading up to her birth and from the time she joined us in August, I have experienced a homemaking renaissance (for lack of a better word). I love being here, living frugally, and having a lot of kids. It took me a long time to embrace this life, and I read here and a few other blogs of moms with large families for tips on ‘crowd control’ and frugal living since I’m a little bit late to the party. I have your cloth diaper post bookmarked. I got about a 3 mo. supply of them as baby gifts, but they are almost gone and I’m starting to shop around on the Internet today for some good deals. Without that post and many of the comments, I would be lost. So thank you for that.
I am also enjoying your segments on how you came to be a Happy Housewife. I can relate, though it would seem I am a much slower learner than most.
Pamm says
Thanks for your great blog! I follow you and share your ideas with my online friends. You are a blessing!
Katrina says
We’re having the fall flu outbreak here and I was wondering, how do you handle flus (or avoid them) with a large family?
Thanks!
Siri says
I am a lurker too… I may have responded once or twice to you before. My question is: where do you find the time for this blog??? I had a baby about a month after you did – he’s 5 months now – and I have two girls ages 5 and 3… and I am really struggling with organized time for much of anything (and the two girls go out of my home for preschool 3 afternoons per week!). I consider myself a VERY organized person… but I’m constantly amazed at your posts. Maybe it’s that I’m too busy organizing everything, hmm… is that where my time goes? Or maybe it’s reading blogs… hmm.. I just really don’t know how you do it.
How many hours do you sleep at night?
TheHappyHousewife says
4 to 5 hours a night, lately. which is not enough… I don’t stay up that late, usually around 11pm, but if Cora wakes up in the middle of the night, and she almost always does, I cannot fall back asleep. So I am usually awake from 3 am on…. I have been feeling it lately though.
Danielle Gaerte says
Love your blog! I found you about 1-2 months ago…Since I am comment 70 something it looks like other LOVE you too! I just wanted to encourage you and say it’s okay to have those times when we have “nothing left”…just means you need to take a little break…dare I say no internet for a day or two???? Seems almost impossible doesn’t it?? Well maybe that is just what you need?? Works for when I am feeling that way…COME visit me anytime!! I’d love to have you over at the Gaertegang!
staci @ teaching money to kids says
Hi I am Staci I blog at teaching money to kids. After ten years of maariage I am enjoying finally learning how to be a wife and a mommy.
Random Fact: I just completed reading the Bible in a year, which is also my tip – if you want to try to read the Bible through in a year, don’t start in January. Start in the fall, like you are starting school. The Holidays are too busy to try to stay caught up, so you have the rest of the year to make up for it.
Question:
I have no idea how the military works, so forgive my ignorance, but is there a plan for your family “after the military” or ar eyou guys lifers?
Serenity says
Okay, I have kind of a silly question. I am almost seven weeks pregnant with my fifth baby. With my first couple of kiddos I wore my regular clothes until 20+ weeks. This time if I make it to 10 weeks in my own clothes I will be thrilled. Is this normal when you start having “tons” of kiddos? I am just a little freaked out!! Also, I am in need of some serious tips about how to make a larger than average family work. My husband and I are in debate about whether or not this is our last baby and the biggest reason we would stop is concern that we couldn’t spend enough time with them individually or handle the expenses they all come with (college, braces, etc…). Any tips on how you handle all this?
Liz@HoosierHomemade says
Toni,
Where is the best place to start with Dave Ramsey?
Thanks!
~Liz
TheHappyHousewife says
Read Total Money Makeover, and then of course just do it! 🙂
Kimberly @ Raising Olives says
Hi Toni! I love your comment system. Do you mind telling me which plug-in/application that you use?
Thanks for your encouragement.
Blessings,
Kimberly
TheHappyHousewife says
I use the “WordPress Thread Comment” plug-in, which enables people to reply inside the comments. I think it is one of the best plug-ins for promoting reader interaction. I also use the “subscribe to comments” plug-in.
Kimberly @ Raising Olives says
Thanks! I really like being able to reply inside the comments and can see that it would be helpful. Thanks again!
Jackie R says
I didn’t get to read through all of the other fantastic comments, yet, but I will. As for me, I don’t have much to say, and never much inspiration, but I love your blog and your story about you and your husband and family.
Random Facts:
Right now, we’re in the midst of TTC – only the second month, but I have a nagging feeling it might take a while. I have a 9 year old, so it’s been a while and I worry about secondary infertility.
My ex (son’s father) got fired (not laid off, fired) yesterday and my son lost his health insurance, so I’m hoping the CHIP decision comes back ASAP. Figures I had an appt to take him to the doc today.
We aren’t religious, but I still enjoy reading blogs of all different viewpoints, and completely appreciate where your life’s inspiration comes from.
TheHappyHousewife says
Thanks for leaving a comment! I hope you can get the insurance thing figured out quickly.
Jackie R. says
Thank you! Just paid $106 for a sick visit. Thank god for savings.
TheHappyHousewife says
wow! glad you had savings, praying for good health until you can get insurance.
Betsy says
I dont know where you are, but try your county or state health department. They usually charge based on income. Might be cheaper.
Denise C. says
First, love your blog! You actually answered a question of mine a few months ago, about my son who is a handful to ME and not anyone else. It’s a situation we’re still battling.
From your blog, I’ve made homemade bread crumbs, and keep them in the freezer (never knew about that trick!)
I’ve also soaked stained clothes in hot water with Oxy Clean. Brilliant.
Two days ago my husband and I had to use THE ENTIRE TUB of Oxy Clean in our son’s bedroom. He got his paws on a tube of PERMANENT fabric paint and decided his bedroom was one giant canvas. =/ After hours of steam cleaning and scrubbing the BLACK paint came out of the carpet. The bedding was not so lucky, =(
TheHappyHousewife says
Oh No!!!! I have one child with a fondness for sharpies so I can totally feel your pain. At least bedding can be replaced cheaply, although I am sure you were probably quite fond of the set you had.
How’s the bible reading coming?
Toni
Denise C. says
It’s coming along slowly. I try and read every chance I get. My Pastor explained the 4 books (Matthew, Mark, Luke and John). I felt like a fool, but he is helping me understand it. 🙂
BTW….Miss Cora is the spitting image of YOU!!!
Denise C. says
While meeting with my Pastor tonight, I gave God my heart and soul. I am officially a Christian!
TheHappyHousewife says
Denise- you just made my week!
((((HUGS!))))
The Happier Husband says
Denise –
You made my week too! Thanks for sharing.
The other THH
Somebody's Mimi says
I love this… (time=tears in my eyes). Warm fuzzies for Denise!!!
Kasey says
Love, love, love your blog and recipes 🙂 Everyone needs a little downtime.
I ran across a really neat website yesterday. http://www.bakerella.com Site has lots of yummy treats. Cake Pops! I can’t wait to try them. Seem like a great project with kiddos. I am attempting them tomorrow!
Bree says
Hi I’m Bree, former Army wife and Mom of two. I like to read blogs for household tips etc. and this is my favorite one. I think it is because of the community and tone of all the readers as well. While I may not have a big brood myself I seem to find more in common with other military and SAHMs.
Tip: If you make hummus and use tahini give this a shot next time, try putting in just a little peanut butter for that roasted nut taste. I make lots of hummus from dried garbanzo beans and freeze it to have on hand. I love tahini but it is way more expensive than a dollop peanut butter.
Question: I love to cook, and be a SAHM and all that comes with it but I still find myself feeling ragged by the end of the day in other words I often feel more like the “Harried Housewife” I think I multi-task too much, I don’t know? Maybe I bring it on myself with unrealitic list of things to do. Any suggestions? I don’t like that by the time my husband comes home from his long day that I feel like I have nothing left in me.
Natballs says
I’m a lurker of your blog O.o
and I even have you on my blogroll
but, alas, I have no ideas…
Jana says
Well, I’m Jana, a SAH-Homeschooling Mommy to three wonderboys and two huge dogs, and I love it. Our boys are 6, 4, and 2, so it’s our second year of homeschooling. We (that is to say, I) am pretty relaxed (with lots of ideas) in homeschooling right now.
Random fact: I’m a klutz and am constantly wondering where different bruises come from on my legs!
My tip: If I could figure out a way, I’d post a board of some type in the shower so I could write down all of my ideas and reminders while I’m in there. That’s where all of my great ideas come from. My dad was a very creative guy who could ‘jury-rig’ anything; I’ve inherited that and if I can’t figure it out, I call my sister who’s super-duct-tape woman.
Question: Kind of personal, but my husband and I are not in complete agreement about permanently limiting the size of our family (if you know what I mean). It just doesn’t ‘feel right’ to me (we’re strong Christians). I’m not sure I want to add more biological children (would love to adopt or foster AND he may be on board with that) but he does NOT want any more babies (I mean that literally; he loves them but doesn’t enjoy them until they are at least 18 months old). How did you and the Happy Husband decide to continue, etc. I really feel like I don’t have anyone unbiased to chat with! Thanks and I love your blog (it’s on my dailies!).
Laurie says
On your personal note…My husband and I had a similar situation after our second. We are both Christians and with much prayer and discussion decided to find out what the Bible had to say about children. We found many helpful resources at VisionForum.com. I enjoyed Be Fruitful and Multiply by Nancy Campbell. It was fairly exhaustive in its coverage of what the Bible says about kids. Hope this helps. I will be praying for you both and your decision!
Moms sanity is making a comeback says
Just wanted to say I love all your tips. Enjoy your day off.
Rachael says
I started reading your blog a few months ago based on a recommendation from my local mom’s group. Thanks for all the great tips! I just got myself a bread machine (at a yard sale :)); any great recipes you would like to share?
Laurie says
Before I found your blog I thought that blogging was just a big waste of time. Then I found your blog and others that have been so helpful- with ideas, tips, and encouragement. Now I have my own time-wasting blog. 🙂
I just started gardening this year and was wondering if you have a place to have a garden at your new house. Will you plant a garden next year? What are your favorite foods to grow?
Somebody's Mimi says
Enjoy your day off… well from writing a blog anyway. Everyone should take time off! REEELLAAXXX!
stacey says
Hi- I love your blog, tips and have found it a great support for me!
Random Fact- I gave up my business / career (of ten years) just five weeks ago to become a SAHM. When it came down to the facts $$$$ could never be more important then my family.
Tip:(for a big family like ours; 5 girls ages 6-13) I only buy one type of socks, hanes color codes the bottom and toe by sz (ex: my little girls wear purple toe and older ones wear the ones with the blue toe)- all of our socks match and it’s for the kids to figue out which ones they need. It also eliminates the basket full of mismatches.
Question: What is your guilty pleasure or splurge item/event/hobby?
Keep up the great work, you are an inspiration for all of out there.
S
stacey says
Hi- I love your blog, tips and have found it a great support for me!
Random Fact- I gave up my business / career (of ten years) just five weeks ago to become a SAHM. When it came down to the facts $$$$ could never be more important then my family.
Tip:(for a big family like ours; 5 girls ages 6-13) I only buy one type of socks, hanes color codes the bottom and toe by sz (ex: my little girls wear purple toe and older ones wear the ones with the blue toe)- all of our socks match and it’s for the kids to figue out which ones they need. It also eliminates the basket full of mismatches.
Question: What is your guilty pleasureor splurge item/event/hobby?
Keep up the great work, you are an inspiration for all of out there.
S
TheHappyHousewife says
Since you are trying to make an honest woman out of me, here are a few of my splurges:
jalepeno cheese fries from Texas Steakhouse
fabric. I LOVE fabric!!! I have more than I could ever use already, but I am always looking for more.
my camera. I love taking pictures, I probably take 100 pictures a week
kitchen stuff, I love gadgets – though I don’t actually spend money on them, I usually ask for them for my birthday
my iPhone – after 8 years of either not having a cell phone or having a bare bones plan my husband surprised me w/ an iphone this summer. I love it!
Carolyn says
I love reading your blog and love your story of the beginning of your marriage. We are trying to start living within our means so I love your frugal tips. It is hard to actually get my budget on paper…I think it is because I know we are overspending so I don’t want to actually see by how much.
The Happier Husband says
Carolyn,
Putting it on paper was one of the hardest things for me too. It was only hard until we actually did it though. Once we faced the hard data on the sheet, we had a better idea of what to do. It was hard getting to the table but once it was done it motivated us even more to get out of the slavery that is debt. May God bless you and help set you free!
The other THH
Melanie says
I’ve been following your blog for awhile now. I totally love all your post, your story and all your tips. I only have one child a 5 year old little spunky girl and for medical reasons will probably not have anymore biological children of my own. I enjoy reading about your big family and how much love you all have, I always wanted a big family so it’s comforting to read about. Thanks again for all your great post!
Molly says
Hi. I’m Molly. I’m 25, I live in Chicago with my boyfriend and my cat, and I’m the sugar momma right now, as he’s in school to become a doctor doctor (MD and PhD in biostatistics – he’s a smart one!). I don’t think I have much in common with you, but that’s okay. I’m fascinated by the military (particularly the Coast Guard). Some days I want a huge family and to homeschool them all. Most days just my current small one.
Tip: pressure cooker. We’re vegetarians, so we eat a lot of beans. With the pressure cooker, we can buy dried beans and avoid all the sodium and expense with canned beans. It has more than paid for itself.
My question’s probably a bit nosy – do your kids like having lots of siblings? I didn’t growing up, but now I get it. And I think my immune system is GREAT because of all those germs I was exposed to when I was little. 🙂
Random fact: I’m the only one in my whole circle of people (extended family, friends, coworkers) who makes handmade baby blankets. I knit and crochet them, and my hope is that they are well loved.
Thank you for sharing all you do!
Molly says
Oh, I have another tip – if you find you really like cloth diapers, try cloth menstrual pads! Yes, they may seem “gross” at first, but I wouldn’t go back. They’re so much better!
Harvard Housewife says
I just started reading your blog. And I just started writing my blog but I FEEL like you –already tapped out. I don’t know HOW you do it. I’m tired of cutting coupons, looking for recipes, etc. The blogosphere is so full of info it gets overwhelming. It fuels my insomnia.
I want to whittle down to my top 10 website and that’s it!!
Katena says
I don’t have a frugal tip but more of a tip for kids helpoing in the kitchen. My 4 year loves to help and I seen this or heard it somewhere. To reuse your ketchup bottles or plastic jelly things to squirt out pancake mix or even muffin mix. My 4 year is special needs and it is great and an easy clean up. All the tips were great I love the one about a bucket and oxyclean with a 11 week old that is a great one. Keep the tips coming.
I have a few questions ??
Will you even put your kids in home schooling?
What do u think of summer homeschooling for public school kids?
Thanks and keep up the great work
Lawanna says
Sorry to hear you’re in a slump — but that makes you human. You’ve share lots of great tips and experiences with us all. It’s ok to have the day off :).
I’ve been blogging about my experience of doing a co-op preschool. Today’s entry is the letter E (http://moneysavinghabits.com/2009/10/15/co-op-preschool-letter-e/). All of the posts are here: http://moneysavinghabits.com/category/kids/preschool/ including how to set up a co-op preschool.
Have you done anything like this? Does it work for military families who move mid “school”-year?
Tonya says
I started a blog in July and was attempting to write something every day with certain topics on certain days. Last week I went a few days without writing because I couldn’t organize my thoughts on those particular topics. I decided to end the blog and said good-bye on it. To my surprise, several people emailed and didn’t want me to stop. I’m back on now but writing as things come up, as daily life happens. It’s much less stressful and easier on me and my kids are much older than yours. I can’t imagine writing a blog like yours with several children to keep track of and spend time with.
As for a tip… my latest one is to keep an aloe plant near the kitchen where you can cut a stem if you need it. I burned my finger pretty bad this week cooking dinner and the inside of the aloe stem did wonders.
Mom in High Heels says
Hmmmm….let’s see. I’m a fellow military spouse (dh is Army) and I grew up a Navy brat (I still have trouble rooting for Army in the Army/Navy game). We currently live in Heidelberg, Germany. This is our third time in Heidelberg. Ds, “Indy” was born here the last time we lived here and has now spent most of his life in Germany. We are home schoolers (2nd year) and have 3 dogs who think my name is “lap.”
I am so enjoying your blog. Your love story is captivating. I admire your honesty and can’t wait to read the next installment.
Phridae says
Just to clarify now, Phridae is just Friday spelled way cooler. =) Thats the way I roll.
I need some books to read! What do you recommend?
Also, time management. I’m having a hard time finding time to shower on a regular basis with an 8 month old and a house to take care of. I stay up so late (currently 2:30am) getting stuff done! I feel like I’m constantly frazzled and never getting anything accomplished.
Cathie says
I live in Western Australia, I work full time, have a wonderful husband of 31 yeqrs and two children (20 & 17) two dogs and a geriatric cat. Thanks to a blog post of yours I stumbled across while searching for something else, I now know how to menu plan. It has been at least 6 weeks and working so well that it is second nature. I actually enjoy grocery shopping and cooking dinner now. The family (and daughters boyfriend) all had input to our meals list so nobody can complain that they dont get what they like. It has taken the stress out of ‘what’s for dinner tonight’ and the grocery bill has gone down and trips to the supermarked down to one per week. – Now I just need to organise the rest of my life.
Kim says
I love your site. I check in everyday for the next frugal tip or recipe. I love your story and can’t wait for the next installment. I am inspired by your family to make more foods from scratch and to get out of debt. Keep writing, we love reading!
Ashley says
I don’t know about everyone else, but I’m dying to hear more of your story…:)
Laura says
Introduce yourself: I’m Laura. I’m an Air Force wife and homeschooling mom to 4 little ones. We are currently stationed in Las Vegas, which is an interesting place to live (to say the least).
Tell me a random fact: Las Vegas has porn boxes (similar to the newspaper boxes that you might see outside). They sit right next to the road, so when we are at stop lights, I often have to tell the kids to look at their shoes so that they aren’t looking at what is in the box. Yuck.
Give me a tip: Magic Erasers. They really are magic and clean just about anything. 😉
Ask a question: Are your kids super competitive? My oldest (6) just HAS to win everything, and is completely crushed when he loses. He turns everything into a competition, and if he thinks I’m not paying attention, he’ll bully the others into letting him win. How do you encourage a child with a competitive spirit to use that for GOOD? How do you teach them that winning isn’t everything?
Holly says
I am a wife and mother of just 1, 13 month girl, Lily. I heard about your blog through a friend and started following because of your story of how you became the “Happy House Wife.” You could seriously turn that into a book, it’s great reading! After that I just started to enjoy your posts and tips.
I am new to the frugality thing as I am new to being a mother. I have JUST started menu planning. Now that I am about a week in I can say that it’s worth it, which I questioned initially. It takes a lot of work but it has been so nice not to worry about what to make.
I work as a substitute teacher and my husband earns a modest living as a multi-media programmer. We live in the Northwest and love it!
I have been trying to think of questions for you…this has nothing to do with frugality but you are a mother of many so maybe you have some advice: How might you get a 13 month old to eat meat? She eats meat from canned ravioli, turkey kilbosa, and lunch meat. She is sick of beans and won’t eat chicken or any other beef and we are not pork eaters so I haven’t offered her any pork. Well thanks and I know it’s a random question but hey, it will give you something to respond to while you are conjuring up some fresh ideas to post.
Thank you and feel free to visit my blog any time!
Alexandria says
I really like your blog, and along with everyone else, I’m really waiting for you to finish the story of how you and your husband met! So, here’s a tip for you for a quick, easy (possibly cheap if it’s on sale) recipe. All you need is a pork loin roast and Hunts stewed tomatoes. Place the pork loin in the crockpot and pour the can of stewed tomatoes over it. Cook on high for 4-6 hours or on low for 8-10. Can’t get any easier than that. Next time I make it, I’m going to try it with the garlic flavored tomatoes. I think that would be really good.
The Happier Husband says
That sounds really easy and tasty as well. Maybe I can get Happy to try it sometime…
The other THH
Katy says
Hello there! Love reading your blog!
I’m a midwest girl, married to my hubby a year on Saturday! (Been together long, long before that tho). We’re both working full-time right now, but I’d love to stay home when we decide to start a family, so we’re really working to save up now!
I guess my question would be…any tips to try and get ready for that?? I’m sure there are a million, so I’m just trying to find more I haven’t already thought of. Thanks so much, and I’ll be reading!
Upstatemomof3 says
I have no question. No tip. And you already know me – partially because I talk a lot and partially because I just love your blog and have to tell you regularly. But I do have a request – could you pray for our court case to go well tomorrow? Or well tonight since tonight is tomorrow in Ethiopia. I appreciate it!!
Becky says
I love reading your blog! I am a Christian wife and homeschooling mom in TN. I also work as an LPN almost every weekend at a nursing home. I have 2 boys (12 and 10 yrs old) and an 18 month old baby girl. In order for me to be able to work just the weekends my family lives very frugally. I love your helpful tips!
May God bless you and your family!
christy says
Hey, I am Christy. I have been lurking for a while. I am interested in several issues you frequently discuss (frugal living and home schooling).
I like the idea of living a frugal lifestyle and saving more money, but I have an incredibly hard time following through with my frugal plans. I like reading about your money saving tips though.
Also, I am seriously considering homeschooling my children. I actually have a degree in elementary education, and yet somehow, the idea of homeschooling is overwhelming to me. I don’t even know where to start. How do I select a good curriculum? What do I do with the younger children while I am teaching? How do I insure that my kids are getting enough socialization outside the home? And then there is my BIGGEST concern – Home schooled children won’t receive an accredited diploma. Will my children have to get a GED? What other options do they have?
Being a parent is so hard. I am constantly second guessing myself and worrying needlessly. Maybe you could tell me how you handle some of these homeschooling issues and help put my mind at ease:)
stacy says
I just started homeschooling my 3 children with a state program. I have NEVER home schooled before and can not seem to get everything done in the day. Can you give me a sample schedule of your day and how you get through?
Liz says
Stacy – a great resource for you as you start scheduling is “Managers of Their Homes” by the Maxwells (I think). They have some great sample schedules and ideas! I have read through it in preparation of starting pre-school this year…or rather I was going to start pre-school this year…it’s October. The best of intentions. =)
Alison says
I’m a lurker, too. I enjoy reading your blog and have learned lots of interesting things.
I’m a fellow military wife, but other than that, I’m not sure that we have a whole lot in common. I have an only child, she goes to public school, I take horrible pictures and we use credit cards every so often. We’re completely debt free and pay off any balance immediately, so it’s not a huge deal for us.
Commonality or not, I love your blog and I think you have a beautiful family.
Jackie R says
Don’t worry – you’re not the only one. We use CC for everything and pay it all off at the end of the month. We do it that way because of the rewards.
I also have 1 child and send him to public (blue ribbon school district right across the street from our rented townhome).
Niki says
My favorite too is the love story!!
I’m a military wife and momma to 4 boys 🙂 Displaced to San Diego.
I have a question, do you have a lot of sibling squabbles? Did you have more when you only had 2-3 kids or now with 7? Do you have any overly sensitive kids? Could seriously use some advice on that one. My 4 year old daily is yelling at someone, even the wall if he bumps into it! I guess that was more than 1 question 🙂
Jenn @ Beautiful Calling says
Shortly after I posted…yours came up in my reader: I’m uninspired tonight too.
http://www.beautifulcalling.ca/2009/10/tut-un-inspired.html
I’m Jenn. Stay-at-home mommy of Chloe (2) and John (1). I am also the new owner of a carpet cleaning machine which we bought on sale at Costco today after Chloe somehow found and opened a child-proof bottle of red cold medicine and spilled it on the rug. I’ve rented a shampooing machine 4 times this year so far once the ‘accidents add up. We built our house (with light colored carpet) before the littles arrived. *sigh*
I’ve been following you since….well…a few months before Cora arrived. I LOVED the video of the kids talking about thrift store shopping 🙂
Diane says
I would love to hear more about your homeschooling adventures….my son has autism and although he does go to a private school, I am always interested in reading about homeschool ideas….
Jessica says
I too got sucked into reading your blog by your love story. Simply love it and am (im)patiently waiting for you to complete it!! 🙂
I am a proud military wife, mama to two curly haired boys and amateur photographer. I earn a bit of money on the side, but it’s really just a hobby I am passionate about. It’s hard to make it a business with two littles 🙂
You just recently got your camera, right?
Do you have any lenses other than the kit and do you plan on buying more?
Do you plan on pursuing photography more?
Amy says
I’m totally a lurker but I thought now would be a good idea to leave a comment 🙂 I don’t have anything to contribute though except to say I love your blog and appreciate all of your wonderful recipes and tips!!! Keep up the good work 🙂
melissa stover says
i’m loving the story of how you and your husband got married and started your family. when you gonna finish that?
TheHappyHousewife says
I guess it is better that we got the most asked question I ever get out of the way towards the beginning! I’m working on it! Any volunteers to come clean my house, babysit, and make dinner, while I type?
Actually, I have recorded most of the story for a podcast… which my husband, whenever he has free time, is going to put on iTunes. Just in case it wasn’t enough to read it, you can actually hear me tell it.
Liz says
That sounds fun! If you find someone to clean your house and make dinner while you type you can send them my way too! =) Well, not for while I type, but while I work from home!
Deven says
What does your extended family think about your family’s number of kiddos? (Not that it matters for how you choose to have kids, but for things like visiting over holidays, getting birthday presents, etc…)
TheHappyHousewife says
Hmm, well they act like they like them. Mom… Mimi…. 144… Sis… Bro… what do you all think?
(Hopefully they will respond in the comments and if not we will know if they really are reading my blog 🙂 )
Mom says
We absolutely love it and long to have them live closer! Who couldn’t love Toni’s kids?!
Somebody's Mimi says
These children are the light of my life and although I don’t see them as much as I would like (we’re in FL) I cherish every moment with them. I have found that my heart grows with each new grandchild (we have 10, so far). Christmas is a bit, how can I say this… tough. We started out giving pretty expensive gifts after all we only had 1… we didn’t know we were going to have so many grandchildren, we thought one maybe four TOTAL… so we could lavish them with wonderful gifts. Well, now we have a total of 10 and that isn’t possible anymore, but I can say each grandchild seems to enjoy and appreciate whatever they receive. I have scaled back on the gifts. We live in a 5 bedroom house (at the present) so we have room for everyone to stay. I find that as I am thinking of moving I always want room for the grandchildren so IF they want to stay with us we will have the room for them. Going to visit them is always one of my favorite trips. When we stay at their homes all of our grandchildren are very well behaved and they all have their schedules and chores… but they always make time for hugs (well most of them) and kisses. And another thing I have noticed there isn’t much arguing and yelling… we kinda enjoy that since we are old folk and live alone.
As a grandparent I totally enjoy and cherish each grandchild and I will take as many as they can give me! God blessed us with two wonderful children and now we are being blessed many times over with wonderful grandchildren. I DO get tired of comments from other people that can’t quite grasp the idea of having a large family… so I just smile and say “It works for us and everyone seems happy.”… I don’t even try to explain.
Thank you children for giving me these wonderful grand children… Does that help answer your question Deven?
Aunt T says
I think at first when like #4 or #5 came around we were all shocked. Like what’s happening here this isn’t the norm?! People just don’t have more than 3 or 4 kids. But as the kids came and we saw how it all worked so well, we became more at easy with the idea. I love each of the kids so much and couldn’t imagine if one of them wasn’t born. It’s inspired me to want a large family as well. It’s a little tough with gifts when they all hit at once (like Christmas). But you just have to plan ahead and find good deals. And Like Mimi said, they are thankful for anything so I don’t feel we have to buy them each a $20 gift for Christmas. It’s hard being away from them, but that’s just a fact of life. Big or small family, you can’t always all be together for the holidays. You’ve got to appreciate the times you can be together. I’m the Happy Housewife’s sister and that’s my .02 cents.
Amanda says
Um. I studied Japanese for five and a half years. I won a partial scholarship that allowed me to visit Japan for a week during my juniour year of highschool.
Completely random, right? 🙂
TheHappyHousewife says
Awesome, I have always wanted to visit Japan.
Aunt LoLo says
Hi! I’m Aunt LoLo. I post on…too many blogs, but my main one is Bubba Bubbles (teahlo.blogspot.com). I love to craft, and get twitchy if I don’t get to CREATE at least every other day. We went to Costco last night, and I was GIDDY knowing that my trunk was full of flour and sugar and eggs. I like to create – and I’m not picky about WHAT I create. 🙂
Hrm…a useful tip? For baby stains of all kinds, I keep a bucket full of water and a scoopful of OxyClean. When the baby gets (x) on his clothes, I wipe up what I can with a baby wipe and throw it into the bucket. I launder it with the rest of the colors at the end of the week, and the stains come out! (It’s super gentle – I used OxyClean to soak my daughter’s 26-year old christening dress, too. Woot!)
TheHappyHousewife says
Great idea with the bucket! I need to have one handy for all Cora’s spotty clothes.
Jaime says
Just a coupon heads up: there were 2 coupons in this past Sundays paper, one for $7.00/2 Advantage brand products and one for $10.00/3. They both give great overage at the commissary, especially the $7.00/2 one!
TheHappyHousewife says
ohhh! and I was out of town and didn’t get a paper. maybe it will be in one of the Thursday inserts… was it Red Plum or Smart Source… do you remember?
Rachael says
I order extra coupons online. One of my favorite sites is thecouponclippers.com. You usually pay 10% of the face value for a coupon. It’s nice if you want extras to stock up or can’t use many coupons in that week’s paper.
Jaime says
They were in the RP! Also, there is a tearpad right in front of the cheese for $5.00/6 Kraft cheese. The small blocks of cheese are only $1.25 so that equals about $.41 per block! I bought 18! The coupons don’t expire till 12-31 either! 🙂
Amy says
love your blog! enjoying it for many reasons…
i forward your military family/frugality tips to my cousin. she lives on a base in hawaii- she’s 21 and has been married a year.
we have started our second year of homeschooling and we are loving it! thank you for your new homeschooling blog.
i am in my second month of feeding my family of 5 on $600/month. i know that amount sounds like a lot to some, it is a big adjustment from the $800/month i was spending previously! i appreciate your recipes and meal planning advice.
thank you again for the time you take to keep up such a great blog!
OldNuffToKnoBtr says
Hi, I live in SW Ohio and mom always said, “First and middle name, you are old enough to know better.” Now I truly am old enough to know better but still learning.
For instance because of your blog and others I am currently using cash only to purchase my groceries including all paper and cleaning products and cat food as well as any eating out I plan to do. I thought it would be difficult but it allows me an amazing amount of freedom.
When my SS check hits the bank I subtract all monthly expenses and the $60 weekly X 4 weeks, which I allow myself for groceries, eating out etc. Each Tuesday I take the weekly money out of the account and mark it on the check register as “cashed.” I plan menu’s and grocery lists keeping track of projected costs. I’m doing great, eating out less, stocking up for the winter, and any money left goes into my vacation cash.
Thanks for the inspiration and I guess truth be told I am not too old to learn.
PS I also work 3 days a week to avoid using more money than SS provides.
TheHappyHousewife says
Awesome! I am so glad you are enjoying your new found freedom! I love it that you are stocking up for winter… I need to start doing that too!
Sharon says
I’m glad I’m not the only one! I have to remind myself that I should only write when I have something to say!
Here’s a question for you:
I’m seriously considering homeschooling and I’ve been on a quest to get input from the kids. If you think it’s appropriate, would you be willing to share what they like about it and what they don’t like about it? I hear a lot from the parents, but I wonder what the kids think!
You do a really awesome job with your blog. I sure enjoy it! Thanks for your service to our country!
TheHappyHousewife says
Sharon-
Sounds like a video blog in the making! I’ll try and ask them this week and get a post up soon! Great idea!
Anne-Marie says
Oh, I feel your pain. I have a lot of incomplete blog posts that I just don’t have time to do research for, insert links & photos properly, organize into intelligent thoughts, & format (my blog template has a horrid default format so I have to use my novice HTML skills to make it tolerable).
Random Fact: You did an awesome job hosting the HSC on Monday night! I was able to write an entire blog post (for my homeschool group’s website) from all the resouces and discussions about Frugal Homeschooling.
Questions:
What’s the biggest age gap between your children?
What’s the smallest age gap between your children?
TheHappyHousewife says
Largest gap between my kids #2 to #3 – 3 years and 10 months. Shortest gap #3 to #4 – 21 months.
Geri says
Last year, my daughter fell in love with makimg pumpkin bread. I can’t even count how many cans of pumpkin we bought-or how much we spent on pureed pumpkin…so this year, in our garden we planted baking pumpkins. I am now in the process of cooking them and pureeing them all. For one whole dollar(thats how much the seeds cost) we got 20+ pumpkins…now thats frugal! And the kids got to learn about gardening, and are super excited because we had a “pumpkin patch” Because yes, they took over alot of the garden!
Love your blog! Somehow I found it and got sucked in by reading your story. Its good to see other military families out there, who have lots of kids & are loving God!
God Bless
Sheila says
Geri, tell tell! I want to do the same thing (obviously it’s a little late this year…) How are the baking pumpkins different? etc..
Geri says
hey there, baking pumpkins are also called sugar pumpkins, I believe they have a higher sugar content than jack o lantern pumkins. They are smaller as well, most around 9 inches. All you do is cut them up, take out the insides like you would squash. I have found that I like to boil/steam them better than baking it. I cut it up in 4 inch pieced put it all in my big pot with a cup of water and half an hour later, they are all cooked and soft. Then when they arent piping hot I can spoon the insides away from the skins. I just put itin the food processor for a few minutes and ta da! It looks and tastes just like the stuff in the can. I have put them in freezer bags, 2 cups each since thats about what most recipes call for.
Now, growing them was super easy! Wal Mart or Home Depot or Target(anywhere really) all carry seeds. I did have my husband till up the ground but out garden was pretty big. If you were only going to do 1 pumpkin plant I’m sure you could just use a shovel to loosen up the dirt. I don’t mean to down play it, but all I did was stick the seed in the ground and water it. Once the plant started to grow it really really took off though, so be prepared for vines all over the place. I got about 10 pumpkins per plant.
Have fun! enjoy! Its great fun for the kids. You can also get baking pumpkins fresh in the produce sections of most grocery stores now a days too.