Car trouble is one of them.

There is something particularly frustrating about handing your car over to a mechanic, hoping they will find the problem, fix the problem, and hand you back a vehicle that you can confidently drive without wondering if it is going to leave you stranded on the side of the road.

Unfortunately, that was not my experience.

After three days in the shop, the technicians couldn’t find anything blatantly wrong with my car. They had looked at it, checked things, run tests, and tried to figure out why it seemed to be stalling while I was driving. But there was no obvious answer. No clear solution. No little part they could replace and send me happily on my way.

Was I thankful that nothing major seemed to be wrong with my car?

Yes.

Was I incredibly frustrated that my car was still seemingly broken, with no apparent explanation or solution?

YES.

And sometimes those two things can exist at the exact same time.

I went to pick up my car knowing that I was getting back a vehicle that still had a question mark hanging over it. In the middle of an already heavy season, it felt like one more thing to figure out. One more problem to solve. One more responsibility to carry.

And honestly, I shed some tears.

Penny noticed.

She asked why I was upset, and I explained that it was hard not knowing what was wrong with the car or what we were supposed to do next. There wasn’t a neat solution to take home with us. There was just uncertainty.

So we got in the car.

We thanked the people who had spent three days trying to find an answer for us, and we drove home.

As I pulled into the garage, I heard Penny’s sweet little voice from the back seat.

“Aren’t you so thankful?”

I almost laughed.

Not a cute, spiritual, yes, sweet child, let us count our blessings kind of laugh.

More of a Are you serious right now? Thankful?! kind of laugh.

“Thankful?” I repeated.

Without hesitation, Penny began listing the reasons.

“The people who tried to fix the car were so nice. And they even gave us candy. And we made it all the way home without the car breaking.”

The reminder I didn’t know I needed.

Because while I had been looking at everything that was still wrong, Penny was looking at everything that was still good.

She noticed the kind people who had tried to help us. She noticed the strawberry candy they had given her while we waited in the repair shop lobby. She noticed that we had gotten into the car, driven home, and pulled safely into our garage.

None of those things fixed the car.

The problem was still there.

The uncertainty was still there.

But so was the goodness.

And somehow, my seven-year-old reminded me that I don’t have to wait for everything to be fixed before I can be thankful.

I think that’s one of the hardest things about gratitude.

It’s easy to praise God when the circumstances are good.

It’s easy to thank Him when the sun is shining, the kids are happy, the bills are paid, everyone is healthy, the plans are working, and life feels like it’s falling beautifully into place.

It’s easy to look around on a warm summer day and say, “God, thank You for this.”

But what does our heart posture look like in the middle of the storm?

Can we still find reasons to say thank You when the answer hasn’t come?

Can we be grateful when the situation is uncertain?

Can we notice the strawberry candy even when the car is still broken?

Being thankful doesn’t mean pretending that hard things aren’t hard. It doesn’t mean we have to manufacture happiness or convince ourselves that everything is fine when it isn’t.

We can be frustrated and thankful.

We can cry and still praise God.

We can admit that something is hard while also looking for the evidence of God’s goodness tucked inside the hard.

Sometimes gratitude doesn’t look like a grand declaration of faith. Sometimes it looks like noticing the person who was kind to you. Or recognizing that you made it safely home. Or accepting the piece of strawberry candy handed to you by a seven-year-old who somehow sees the world with more wonder than you did that day.

And sometimes we need God’s Word to remind us where to turn our hearts when life isn’t going according to plan.

5 Verses to Turn To When Life Isn’t Going as Planned

1. 1 Thessalonians 5:18

“Give thanks in all circumstances; for this is the will of God in Christ Jesus for you.”

Not give thanks when everything works out.

Not give thanks when you understand what God is doing.

Give thanks in all circumstances. We can bring our disappointment, frustration, uncertainty, and unanswered questions to God while still looking for reasons to praise Him.

2. Psalm 34:1

“I will bless the Lord at all times; his praise shall continually be in my mouth.”

At all times.

On the good days. On the frustrating days. On the days when the answer comes and the days when it doesn’t. Praise isn’t dependent on our circumstances; it’s a choice to remember who God is in the middle of them.

3. Philippians 4:6–7

“Do not be anxious about anything, but in everything by prayer and supplication with thanksgiving let your requests be made known to God.”

I love that thanksgiving is tucked right into this instruction to pray.

We don’t have to choose between asking God for help and thanking Him. We can do both. We can say, “God, I don’t know what to do with this,” while also saying, “Thank You for being with me in it.”

4. Psalm 46:1

“God is our refuge and strength, a very present help in trouble.”

Sometimes we don’t need another explanation. We need a reminder that we’re not facing the trouble alone.

God doesn’t promise that we will never have trouble. But He promises His presence in the middle of it.

5. Habakkuk 3:17–18

“Though the fig tree should not blossom, nor fruit be on the vines…yet I will rejoice in the Lord; I will take joy in the God of my salvation.”

This passage is such a beautiful picture of choosing praise when circumstances aren’t producing the outcome we hoped for.

Sometimes the fig tree doesn’t blossom.

Sometimes the car doesn’t get fixed.

Sometimes the answer doesn’t come when we want it to.

And still, God is good.

Maybe that’s what being thankful in the middle of hardship really looks like.

Not pretending the storm isn’t happening.

Not ignoring the things that hurt.

But lifting our eyes long enough to notice that even in the middle of the storm, there are still gifts.

There are still people who are kind.

There are still little moments of sweetness.

There is still laughter.

There is still a safe place to come home to.

There is still strawberry candy.

And there is still a good God who is with us in all of it.

Sometimes we just need a seven-year-old in the back seat to remind us to look for it.

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The online definition of “Grandma hobbies” says – “They are low-tech, tactile, and creative pastimes traditionally associated with older generations that are seeing a major resurgence among younger people looking to disconnect from digital screens.”

Whew, that’s a mouthful.

Grandma hobbies cover a wide variety of things to try. To name a few: knitting, crocheting, sewing, embroidery, cross-stitching, cooking, baking, puzzles, board games, quilting, gardening, canning, and anything else that encourages you to stop and focus on what you’re doing for a minute or two.

No matter your interests or talents you can easily find a hobby that suits you. To name a few: knitting, crocheting, sewing, embroidery, cross-stitching, cooking, baking, puzzles, board games, quilting, gardening, canning and anything else that encourages you to stop and focus on what you’re doing for a minute or two.

In this crazy world we live in, we have become overstimulated and under-nourished in so many ways.  We long for things that feel real and useful.  Creating things with your hands solves that.  Old-fashioned hobbies give us a sense of accomplishment not found elsewhere.  Finishing a paper online doesn’t pack the same punch that holding a ripe tomato or a finished sweater does.

Plus, doing these activities creates much-needed pauses during the day.  They give us permission to rest without a lot of guilt.  In these modern times, we often feel guilty if we’re not busy at all times.  Partaking in these pastimes gives us a feeling of accomplishment while also allowing us to rest along the way.

So, how do grandma hobbies help?

They Lower Stress Hormones – Repetitive movements, like knitting or crocheting, act as a form of peaceful “meditation” that actually lowers the stress hormone cortisol.

They Raise Feel-good Hormones – Working with your hands stimulates touch receptors, releasing calming oxytocin and elevating dopamine and serotonin to boost your mood.

They cut screen time – Trading digital devices for hands-on crafts helps your brain decompress and also improves your overall sleep quality

They improve neuroplasticity – Learning new patterns or techniques builds and strengthens neural pathways, keeping the mind sharp and flexible.

They give you better focus – These activities demand sustained attention, which trains your brain to filter out distractions and stay present in the moment.

They lower dementia risk – Studies associate regular creative hobbies and gardening with a lower risk of cognitive decline as you age.

They combat loneliness – Crafting circles, gardening clubs, or baking groups create a sense of community and strong social belonging.  Even online groups allow you to share what you’ve made and get support from other members.

They give us a sense of purpose – Finishing a project or sharing handmade goods with others fosters deep satisfaction and emotional joy.

They regulate the nervous system – The bilateral movement in knitting or kneading dough and the rhythm of the movements signal safety to our bodies.  That activates the parasympathetic nervous system and gets us out of the fight-or-fight system that so many of us are stuck in.

There are so many grandma hobbies to choose from that you are sure to find one that matches your unique personality.

My friend makes the most beautiful quilts.  Quilting is a linear hobby.  Pieces must fit together perfectly or everything is off balance.  I could never quilt.  I am far from linear and my inclination is to make wonky things.  But it’s the perfect match for my friend.

Ann Kirsten

In contrast, I make tiny little things.  I love embroidery.  I love the different colors of thread and the movement of the needle going through the material.  Sometimes I make up a pattern in my head as I go along.

Ann Kirsten

And sometimes I follow a pattern but make it my own with my choice of colors and fabrics.

Ann Kirsten

Either way, the rhythmic movements give me so much peace.

My mother-in-law always had a crochet hook in her hand.  She made blankets, ornaments, clothing and anything else that caught her eye.  The dress in this picture was made for my daughter and then her daughter wore it and it is now packed away for future generations.

Ann Kirsten

Cross-stitch saved me when I first became a mother.  My husband worked twelve-hour shifts, seven days a week and we only had one car.  I was stuck inside with a new baby.  Stitching gave me a concrete way to feel that I mattered.  I had something physical to show for those long and lonely days inside.

Ann Kirsten

Maybe your “thing” will be gardening.  There is nothing quite like growing your own food.  Talk about physical examples of your hard work!  The produce you provide your family will give you so much satisfaction.

Ann Kirsten

Canning goes along with gardening.  Whether you choose to can the old-fashioned way or freeze your produce, the sight of all those jars of yumminess will fill your heart with joy.

Ann Kirsten

My daughter has chosen sourdough baking.  The things she turns out of her kitchen are stunning and so delicious.  Her kids will remember them long after they’re grown.

Ann Kirsten

I love to bake as well.  A few years ago I baked cookies of the month.  The recipes are all on allmomdoes.com.  Simply do a search for “cookie of the month”.

Ann Kirsten

And grandma hobbies aren’t just for women.  When my husband was recovering from a terrible accident we set up a puzzle table.  Working on a puzzle not only gave him peace, but he could see his accomplishments right before his eyes as he put the pieces together.  He needed that encouragement at a time when he was physically unable to do much else.

So there you have it.  Grandma hobbies are here to stay.  They’re not only special ways to create heirlooms, they’re also healthy!

She selects wool and flax
and works with eager hands.
Proverbs 31:13

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At the first sight of fruit flies each year, I waste no time. I immediately set up my DIY traps. I find it so satisfying to look in the little bowls each morning to witness how many fruit fly corpses are floating around. But last year, I became frustrated when my traps were getting some of them, but there were still numerous little bugs flying around our house.

I was complaining to some of my friends about it one night and my mind was blown at what one of them told me. She said there is something called a drain fly. I had never heard of this. Apparently drain flies, though basically harmless, like to lay their eggs in moist areas like a drain. Even more interesting, all the friends I was with that evening said they too were having an issue this year with tiny bugs that wouldn’t go away.

It didn’t appear there was an actual reason we were all having this problem. None of us had clogged drains with standing water or unused toilets in our house. We concluded that our neighborhood was just having some sort of random infest; there is no way to know if this is actually true. But what we did know is that we had to take care of it.

I immediately started looking up how to rid my house of these. Thankfully, the solution was simple and so far has been very effective.

If you have fruit flies but think you might also have drain flies, I suggest doing a combination of the vinegar dish soap solution and this new remedy I discovered. I have a hard time telling the difference between the bugs. But what was interesting was after I did this new remedy, I had triple the dead fruit flies in my soap solution than I had previously.

What you will need:
Measurements are per drain. I suggest doing one solution per drain in your house, including showers.

• ½ cup baking soda
• 1 cup vinegar (I used white vinegar)
• Very hot water (I read that boiling can be bad for pipes so I used the hottest I could get before boiling)

What you will do:

1. Sprinkle the baking soda in and on the drain opening (getting into the drain)
2. Pour in the vinegar
3. It will start to bubble like a science experiment (my kids loved it!)
4. After about 10 minutes, flush the drain with hot water (I put it into a large bowl then poured in)

WATCH TUTORIAL:

RELATED:

Your Three-Step Fruit Fly Battle Plan

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Enjoying the last bit of summer doesn’t come without the realization that fall is practically here which means our fall schedule is practically here.

I rely heavily on my Google calendar. It’s shared with my husband, and I always say, “if it’s not on the calendar, it doesn’t exist.” There are misses but overall, my husband is pretty good about ensuring that commitments get put into the shared calendar to help us stay aligned. I am sure I have also had misses, but I like to believe I too am when it comes to getting things on the calendar.

Knowing that we are coming up on the fall season, I decided to deep dive into the schedule come September to start preparing myself for what is ahead. Up until that point, we had enrolled the kids in things and crossed our fingers for as few conflicts as possible. I knew that everything would work as far as no two sports overlapping. That seemed like a small miracle, quite honestly.

Conflicts will arise as we get further into the season. We have practice times but not game or meet times yet so it’s inevitable that some sort of scheduling challenges will arise between the multiple extra curriculars that my kids participate in.

I can’t yet wrap my head around that because I am still in the stage of how to make it all work with just the practice schedule. Soccer, swim team, drums, basketball, flag football, youth group and three different types of dance classes. We are also throwing in drivers ed for my son who will be 15 soon.

Fall is already feeling like a lot, and it hasn’t started. Some of it is anticipation. I think once we get into the groove of the schedule, we will be fine. Having two kids and two parents means that we can divide and conquer which we are used to doing.

My kids really enjoy all their activities and my husband, and I think keeping them busy is a good thing. If they have good grades, we try to support the activities that they want to do. We love the community they have from each activity, getting to meet different people and we believe that staying active is really important.

As I look at the calendar and try to envision what the evenings will be every day after work, it is a little overwhelming. There are zero days Monday through Thursday that we’ll be able to have dinner together as a family. This also means very limited, if any, time to get dinner ready. Sundays will remain critical for me as I prepare for the week. Meal prepping of some sort will be important because there just won’t be time for it during the week.

It feels a bit like organized chaos even though the season hasn’t yet begun.  But I think I kind of thrive in it. I love routine and I love organizing. As I look to the fall, it brings me joy knowing that I can organize the days that will lead to the type of routine that I love.

It doesn’t mean there won’t be moments of stress or feeling like maybe we are overcommitted or moments where I feel like I am failing. But for someone like me who does thrive in routine, I have figured out that I prefer a little chaos over an open schedule. As long as I feel like I can somewhat organize and manage it.

Are you gearing up for fall? Do you too actually thrive in the organized chaos, or will you be longing for the days of summer where things tend to be a little more easy going?

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Recipes often claim to be “quick and easy” and then 45 minutes later I find myself still without dinner on the table. When I find a recipe that is actually quick and easy and something that tastes good, I keep it on hand.

This gnocchi soup is not only actually quick and easy but it’s also vegetarian which, for us with a vegetarian 11-year-old, makes it an ideal meal. It also has a ton of veggies in it but my kids loved it.

Warning- the finished product doesn’t look totally satisfying but I promise you it is delicious and the perfect fall meal.

PC: Stephanie O’Farrell

You will need:

• Vegetable Broth- about 2 cups
• “Holiday Vegetable Hash- this is chopped up butternut squash, sweet potato, celery, sage, rosemary and parsley. You could chop it up yourself, but this pre-chopped version made it incredibly simple.
• Boursin Cheese- 5.3 ounce box
• Gnocchi- I used pumpkin to make the perfect fall meal

Here is what you will do:

Sautee the vegetables in a lightly oiled pan until they are softened

In a blender add softened vegetables, Boursin cheese, 2 cups vegetable broth (I used about 2.5 cups)

Blend for about a minute

Pour mixture into a pot and bring to a boil

Add in gnocchi

Cook gnocchi as instructions call for (typically only a few minutes until they start rising to the top

I served my kids grilled cheese on the side but croutons in the soup would also be lovely.

Enjoy!

RELATED

• Six Things I Do On Sundays To Set My Week Up For Success

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In Fall, I am a squirrel too!

Further research backed me up on this weird thought.

For example:

Once fall arrives, squirrels start eating more.  They enter a “hyperphagic” phase (which basically just means overeating).

So do I!  Seriously, the weather starts turning cooler and I am suddenly drawn to heavier foods.  I trade my light summer salads for soups and stews.  And then baked goods come pouring out of my oven and of course they must be eaten with hot chocolate and decadent coffee drinks.

Every year I say to myself, “This year I am going to continue eating light foods even though Autumn has arrived.”  And every year, I head straight for pot pies, casseroles, and potatoes.  The squirrels have an excuse.  They need those extra calories to survive the colder weather.  But do I?  Probably not, but somehow I still start carb-loading.

All those extra calories are stored as fat to carry squirrels through the lean months that follow.

That’s awesome (for the squirrels).  Not so much for me.  I have no lean months.  I live in a nice warm house with access to all the food I need (and want).  Still, just like the squirrels, I store those extra calories as fat.  Yippee.

Squirrels cache what they don’t eat, hiding food for later.

You would think that this is where I differ from squirrels.  I do not.  I may or may not have a hidden chocolate drawer (is my husband reading this?).  I also have little treats hidden in my nightstand, end tables, etc.  And, yes, I forget where I put things.  It’s always a pleasant surprise to find a goodie I have forgotten about.

Squirrels collect acorns.

I do too!  I don’t know what it is about acorns, but I find them fascinating.  They’re such odd little things.  I am entranced by their shape.  I have fancy bowls of them inside my home in the Fall.  I paint them, glitter them, and pile them on tables.  (I don’t eat them though).

Squirrels sleep more when the weather gets colder.

Me too!  There is nothing like a cozy bed when the weather is cold. I keep my room cool and pile on the blankets.  The darker days make me look forward to napping and going to bed earlier.  So cozy!

They decrease their activity level to conserve energy.

I do the same thing.  The beautiful thing about Fall is that when it is dark and rainy I feel no guilt for staying inside and reading, or sewing, or napping again!

During the summer months it feels like a waste not to be doing something active outside.  Autumn holds no such feelings for me.  I can laze a bit without feeling bad.  Give me a blustery day, a good book and a pot of tea and I am a happy girl.  Once the chilly weather hits, you can usually find me under a blanket in my favorite chair.

Squirrels grow thicker coats for the colder weather.

Okay, I can’t grow a winter coat, but I do the next best thing.  I unpack my sweaters.  I love sweaters!  They’re like a hug for your body.  I buy mine big and soft.  Just putting one on makes me feel so happy.

Squirrels make “hibernaculum” dens (from the Latin for “tent for winter quarters”).

Oh, how I love to nest in the cold months!  It’s one of my favorite things to do.  I put out fuzzy blankets and soft pillows.  I fill the house with candles and light fires in the fireplace.  I stack books near chairs and put flannel sheets on my bed.  I love my hibernaculum den!

During their hibernation times, squirrels slow their breathing, their heart rate and even their metabolic rate.

Fall and winter are my times of peace.  My breathing naturally slows down and so do I, which calms my heart rate too.  Sadly, my metabolic rate also seems to tank.  I guess we can’t have everything.

So, there you have it.  Proof that I am part squirrel.  Fall is here and I couldn’t be happier.

As I looked into squirrels I found this cute little poem.  Written long ago and much shared and illustrated, the author is unknown.  Isn’t it cute?

Earl the Squirrel is a classic old book by the author of the Corduroy books.  In it, Earl’s mom decides it is time for Earl to find his own acorns.  He spends the night searching and meeting new friends along the way.

In conclusion, squirrels remind me to praise God for this coming season and all the joy that it holds.

Andrey Svistunov

What about you.  Are you a squirrel too?

“There is a time for everything, and a season for every activity under the heavens.” Ecclesiastes 3:1-2

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]]> https://www.allmomdoes.com/blog/squirrels-in-autumn-and-the-art-of-getting-cozy/feed/ 0 https://www.allmomdoes.com/blog/the-realistic-fall-family-bucket-list/ https://www.allmomdoes.com/blog/the-realistic-fall-family-bucket-list/#respond Mon, 21 Sep 2026 17:00:24 +0000 Joanna Gott 2026-09-22T15:14:14+00:00 https://d955.cms.socastsrm.com/?p=61381 There is a version of fall that exists almost exclusively on Pinterest.

It involves perfectly coordinated flannel shirts, a picturesque apple orchard, a wagon ride through the trees, pumpkins picked directly from the vine, homemade pies cooling on the counter, and children who somehow manage to jump into a pile of leaves without getting dirt in their hair, mud on their clothes, or into an argument with their siblings.

It’s beautiful.

It’s also…a lot.

And while I love a good fall outing as much as the next person, I’ve realized that sometimes our expectations for a “magical” autumn season can make the actual season feel a little less magical.

Because real fall looks a lot more like buying pumpkins at the grocery store because the pumpkin patch is 45 minutes away. It looks like raking the same leaves more than once because the trees apparently have an endless supply. It looks like making hot chocolate from a packet instead of homemade cocoa because you have approximately six minutes before everyone needs to be somewhere else.

And honestly? I think that’s okay.

This year, instead of creating a Fall Family Bucket List that requires reservations, matching outfits, a free Saturday afternoon, and a small miracle, I’m making one that is actually doable.

Because the goal isn’t to cram 25 fall activities into six weeks.

The goal is to notice the season.

To make a few memories.

To give ourselves permission to enjoy the ordinary things that make this time of year feel special.

So here is my Realistic Fall Family Bucket List—25 simple things you can do with your family without turning fall into another item on your to-do list.

Our Realistic Fall Family Bucket List

1. Make a pile of leaves in the front yard and jump in it.
   Yes, you’ll probably have to rake them again. That’s part of the fun.
2. Find five different fallen leaves outside.
   See how many shapes, colors, and sizes you can find.
3. Make hot chocolate at home.
   Bonus points for marshmallows, whipped cream, or a ridiculous amount of cinnamon.
4. Paint your pumpkins instead of carving them.
   Less mess. No pumpkin guts. Everyone wins.
5. Have a popcorn movie night at home.
   Pajamas encouraged. Blankets required. Cleaning up popcorn afterward is optional.
6. Go on a fall color walk.
   You don’t have to go anywhere special. Walk around your neighborhood and notice the changing trees.
7. Bake something with cinnamon.
   Cookies, muffins, bread, or whatever you can manage.
8. Buy a $5 bouquet of grocery-store mums.
   You don’t need a whole porch makeover to make your house feel like fall.
9. Drink something warm outside.
   Coffee, cider, tea, or hot chocolate. Put on a sweater and stay for five minutes longer than necessary.
10. Make a fall playlist.
    Let everyone in the family contribute a song.
11. Go for a drive just to look at the leaves.
    No destination required.
12. Make leaf rubbings.
    Grab some paper and crayons and turn those fallen leaves into art.
13. Eat dinner outside on a chilly evening.
    Wrap everyone in blankets and call it an adventure.
14. Make caramel apples—or just dip apple slices in caramel.
    The second option is considerably less sticky.
15. Have a family game night.
    Pick an old favorite and embrace the inevitable arguing over the rules.
16. Take a picture on the first really “fall” day.
    Not a perfect family photo. Just a picture of everyone as they actually are.
17. Make a simple fall craft.
    Paper leaves, painted pinecones, cardboard pumpkins—use what you already have.
18. Go to a pumpkin patch if it works for your family.
    And if it doesn’t? Buy the pumpkins at the grocery store. They still count.
19. Read a fall book together.
    Bonus points if everyone piles onto the couch.
20. Make a batch of soup or chili.
    Something that can simmer while your house starts smelling delicious.
21. Have a flashlight walk after dinner.
    It doesn’t need to be late. Kids think walking around with flashlights is exciting at almost any hour.
22. Make a fall-themed dessert from a box mix.
    There is no prize for making everything from scratch.
23. Collect a few beautiful things from outside.
    Leaves, pinecones, sticks, acorns—whatever catches your eye.
24. Do absolutely nothing “fall-ish” one Saturday.
    Stay home. Watch TV. Play. Nap. Wear sweatpants. Remember that rest is an activity, too.
25. End the season by talking about your favorite fall memory.
    Ask everyone what they loved most. You might be surprised by what they remember.

[DOWNLOAD BUCKET LIST HERE]

I love that this list doesn’t require a perfect autumn.

It doesn’t require traveling to the best pumpkin patch in your state or finding the most beautiful trail covered in golden leaves. It doesn’t require a camera-ready family or a calendar with endless open weekends.

It simply asks us to slow down enough to notice what is already happening around us.

Because someday, our kids probably won’t remember whether we went on the fanciest hayride or picked the perfect pumpkin from a field.

They may remember sitting on the front porch drinking hot chocolate.

They may remember Mom letting them jump into a giant pile of leaves.

They may remember painting a pumpkin purple because orange was “too boring.”

They may remember popcorn on the couch and a movie they watched a hundred times.

And maybe that’s the real bucket list.

Not How much can we do this fall?

But How much can we enjoy the fall we already have?

So here’s to grocery-store pumpkins, messy leaf piles, boxed brownie mix, chilly walks around the block, and hot chocolate made from a packet.

Here’s to a fall that doesn’t have to be extraordinary to be memorable.

And here’s to making a little room for magic in the middle of our very ordinary, very busy, very real family life.

Because sometimes the best memories aren’t the ones we planned.

They’re the ones we almost didn’t do at all.

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If you are struggling to find things to love about September, may I offer a few suggestions?

READ A BEAUTIFUL BOOK

I love to check out children’s books from the library.  The illustrations are so beautiful, and they get me and the kids in the mood for a new season.  My grandkids love Fletcher and the Falling Leaves.  The little fox is adorable.

DRINK SOMETHING COZY

One of the best parts of Fall is the cozy drinks!  Whether it’s pumpkin spice or hot chocolate, add whipped cream on top to make it extra festive.

GO FOR A LONG GENTLE WALK

I’m not talking about a power walk.  Instead, meander through the neighborhood or a park and look at all the changing leaves.  They’re gorgeous this time of year.

BAKE SOMETHING

Fall is just meant for home-baked goodies.  Not a baker?  Grab some rolls from the grocery store, add extra cinnamon and pop them in the oven.

Ann Kirsten

WATCH A SWEET FILM

This is not the time for hair-raising action movies.  Instead, watch a quiet story that feeds your soul.

BUY YOURSELF FLOWERS

Mums, anyone?  I can never resist the beautiful varieties that are everywhere this time of year.  Pop the whole pot into a container of water for an hour.  Afterwards, water them from the bottom.

VISIT A CAFÉ

I love people watching in a rustic café that serves simple foods.  I much prefer that to a gourmet spot.

LISTEN TO MUSIC

Have you listened to the music that was popular when you were a teen lately?  Do it!  You’ll be amazed at how it energizes you.

LIGHT A CANDLE

I love the spicy Fall scents of candles!  I just bought myself a soy candle that smells of clove and cinnamon.

PICK FALL FRUIT

Apples and some varieties of pears are ripe and ready to be picked.  Or buy a box of them from a farmer.  You can make pies, crisps, cobblers, sauces, and cakes.  There’s so much to make with apples.

Ann Kirsten

WATCH A SUNSET

This one is simple.  There are some beautiful sunsets this time of year.  My friend, Suanne, took this one from her window.  Isn’t it gorgeous?

Photo by Suanne

STEEP A NEW TEA

Many tea companies come out with Fall flavors.  Caramel Apple by Republic of Tea is one of my son’s favorites.

SWAP COFFEE FOR APPLE CIDER

Try this at least once!  You can order one at a coffee shop or make it at home.  Simply warm some apple cider in the microwave, top it with whipped cream and drizzle a bit of caramel sauce on top.  Yum!

PICK SOME LEAVES

Collect the last of the garden blossoms and the most colorful leaves you see.  Press them in the pages of a book or put a branch of them in water.

Ann Kirsten

READ A BOOK

Check out a cozy Fall mystery from the library.  There are lots to choose from and they have the cutest covers. Download our Harvest Bookmark!

PUMPKIN PATCH

Visit a pumpkin patch.  Even if you don’t plan on carving a jack o’ lantern, pumpkin patches are such fun places to visit.  They often have mazes to try and delicious food to buy.

Ann Kirsten

As you can see from these ideas, September is a month to be celebrated.  I am in awe that God made something to celebrate in every single month of the year.

Have you ever done a simple search for “harvest scriptures”?  You will be amazed at how many there are to study.  Wouldn’t it be fun to use a scripture in your fall decorating?  A framed calligraphy version, an embroidered sampler, or even a verse painted on a pumpkin would be a wonderful way to honor the Lord this time of year.

Here a few verses to get you started:

• Galatians 6:9 says, “Let us not become weary in doing good, for at the proper time we will reap a harvest if we do not give up.“
• Matthew 9:37–38 states: “The harvest is plentiful, but the workers are few. Ask the Lord of the harvest, therefore, to send out workers into his harvest field.”
• Proverbs 10:5 states: “He who gathers in summer is a wise son; he who sleeps in harvest is a son who causes shame.”
• Leviticus 19:9 – “‘When you reap the harvest of your land, do not reap to the very edges of your field or gather the gleanings of your harvest.”
• Exodus 23:16 – “Celebrate the Festival of Harvest with the firstfruits of the crops you sow in your field.” “Celebrate the Festival of Ingathering at the end of the year, when you gather in your crops from the field.”
• 2 Corinthians 9:6 – “The point is this: whoever sows sparingly will also reap sparingly, and whoever sows bountifully will also reap bountifully.”
• Jeremiah 5:24 – “They do not say in their hearts, ‘Let us fear the Lord our God, who gives the rain in its season, the autumn rain and the spring rain, and keeps for us the weeks appointed for the harvest.”
• James 3:18 – “And a harvest of righteousness is sown in peace by those who make peace.”
• Galatians 6:8 -“For the one who sows to his own flesh will from the flesh reap corruption, but the one who sows to the Spirit will from the Spirit reap eternal life.”
• Matthew 13:30 – “Let both grow together until the harvest, and at harvest time I will tell the reapers, “Gather the weeds first and bind them in bundles to be burned, but gather the wheat into my barn.”
• Malachi 3:10 – “Bring the full tithe into the storehouse, that there may be food in my house. And thereby put me to the test, says the Lord of hosts, if I will not open the windows of heaven for you and pour down for you a blessing until there is no more need.”
• Matthew 6:26 – “Look at the birds of the air: they neither sow nor reap nor gather into barns, and yet your heavenly Father feeds them. Are you not of more value than they?”
• Leviticus 26:3-4 – “If you walk in my statutes and observe my commandments and do them, then I will give you your rains in their season, and the land shall yield its increase, and the trees of the field shall yield their fruit.”
• Revelation 14:15 – “And another angel came out of the temple, calling with a loud voice to him who sat on the cloud, “Put in your sickle, and reap, for the hour to reap has come, for the harvest of the earth is fully ripe.”
• Genesis 8:22 – “As long as the earth endures, seedtime and harvest, cold and heat, summer and winter, day and night will never cease.”

As you can tell, harvest is an important topic in the Bible, and September is a wonderful time to celebrate that.

However you choose to celebrate this special time of year, may you feel the blessings of God shower down around you.

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Christians have nothing to be smug about; we are not righteous people trying to correct the unrighteous. Just one beggar telling another beggar where to find bread. -R.C. Sproul

Public schools often have a bad reputation, especially these days when it’s not uncommon for the environment to be increasingly hostile toward believers. Living in Western Washington, we’re no strangers to feeling a little out of place when it comes to our values and beliefs. My husband and I were raised in the greater Seattle area and went to public school there. It wasn’t perfect and we did grapple with swimming upstream when it came to many issues, but we were both confident in our faith and the foundation we had built. We are raising our four sons a bit south of there, which we have really enjoyed! It’s been a good fit for our family since my husband got out of the military when our first two were little. They each went to a private, Christian preschool, which we loved. Before we knew it, it was time to make the decision for kindergarten…homeschool, send them to private school, or brave the wilds of the public school system?!

“God didn’t call you to be liked. He called you to be light. And light, by its very nature, makes darkness uncomfortable. If you feel out of place…you might be doing something right.”- unknown

It’s a very personal decision for families to make, and there are a lot of variables! Location, finances, schedules, and environment just to name a few. We’ve had a few, short bouts of homeschooling over the years (our kids are now 4, 8, 13, and 15), but ultimately, we landed on public school. I know families that homeschool and love it as well as families with kids in private schools that they have great things to say about. So, why did we choose public school? The short answer is that we want them to be able to thrive in the world they’re going to be launched into.

That doesn’t mean kids who are homeschooled or go to private school won’t thrive. There are so many positives when it comes to homeschooling and private schools! Both of which we considered due to those pros. At the end of the day, we felt that nothing would prepare them as well as growing up with a wide range of kids and teachers from all walks of life. Being exposed to a diverse community in our school district reflects the society that they’re going to be a part of. Knowing that it was our influence and foundation in Christ that matters the most, we trusted this to be the path that our kids were going to travel down.

I know there are some very negative stereotypes when it comes to public schools. I understand if it fills you worry that they’ll be so influenced by those who believe differently from them, they might lose sight of who they are and who we’ve raised them to be. I know families who have homeschooled or gone through private school and had negative experiences and outcomes. Nothing is certain and we can’t know what the outcome will be. We can make the best decision with the information we have, and trust God with the rest. As long as our kids are thriving emotionally, socially, and academically, that’s what matters and gives us confidence in our decision. Daily communication with our kids helps us know where they’re at and what they’re seeing and hearing. Having those very open discussions when certain things come up has given our kids a lot of confidence in who they are and what they stand for. They aren’t afraid to question things, and I admire the way they’re already thinking for themselves.

They have gravitated to like-minded friends but also have friends from other religions, friends who believe different things than they do, and friends who come from very different backgrounds and families. Wealthy, poor, and everywhere in-between, public school has them all. As hard as it’s been for them to see their friends hurting who come from abusive or broken families, to hear kids say they have no food at home, to see kids who can’t afford shoes for the next sports season, or to know kids who don’t believe in God, it has already taught them so much and given us countless opportunities to have deep conversations. They have an understanding and appreciation for who we are as a family and also empathy for kids who don’t have the support they need. The potential for outreach is huge, and I’ve been so proud of their big hearts when they come home concerned about someone who needs help. It’s also been encouraging to see when they’ve made the decision to boldly wear their cross necklaces and “Jesus is King” shirts, knowing that it could be received with hostility by some of their peers.

 “The light shines in the darkness, and the darkness has not overcome it.” John 1:5

For what it’s worth, almost every teacher our kids have had after eleven years so far in this school district, has been encouraging, supportive, and passionate about what they do. Many coaches and staff members at their schools are phenomenal role models and have been solid leaders for our children. Sure, our kids have witnessed and heard some crazy things, I’m not going to sugar-coat that. Things that my husband and I, of course, wish weren’t even topics or concerns for children, but it’s real and it’s the world we’re living in. We’d rather them have to stand up to adversity in these formative years when they have our support and guidance, than be sheltered from it until they are out in the world and we can’t be there.

We feel that any challenges they may face when it comes to public school are preparing them for their purpose and are helping shape them into strong, stead-fast, courageous men. We know that they will eventually face battles we can’t fight for them, but we trust that through faith, prayer, and our influence, they will know they are never alone no matter what adversity they face. (Isaiah 41:10)

We’ve had some bumps along the way and I don’t think any school year will be perfect (no matter what educational route you go), but I hope that if you’re considering public school or if you’re your kids are already on that path, you’ll feel confident in your decision. Believe that through prayer you will know what is best for your family. If public school is the best option, then don’t worry about the stereotypes and trust your influence in your child’s life. Look for the good, look for the opportunities to help them grow and to understand others, and lead by example. Show them what it looks like to have courage to go against what’s popular or easy, especially when it conflicts with their beliefs.

“I am the light of the world. Whoever follows me will never walk in darkness but will have the light of life.” John 8:12

 Prayer for our children at school:
Lord, please protect them from all harm. Help them be a light to others and to honor you with their words and actions. Give them the confidence, wisdom, and strength that they need. Help them to feel your presence and rely on you always. Amen!

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The good news? Breakfast doesn’t have to be complicated. Here are three delicious options that are simple, family-friendly, and perfect for busy schedules.

Popover Soufflé: Feels Fancy but is Super Easy

Getty | Zoryanchik

If you want a breakfast that looks impressive but comes together with 6 simple ingredients, a popover soufflé is a great choice. Also called Dutch Babies, these are light, fluffy, and comforting; the kind of breakfast that makes an ordinary morning feel a little more special.

Now here’s the deal… when you hear the word ‘soufflé’ it’s easy to get intimidated. The reality of soufflé is that it puffs up beautifully in the oven BUT IT WILL DEFLATE… It’s science and I’m completely good with that because it doesn’t change that it’s still absolutely delicious.

Pair it with fresh fruit on top, and you’ve got a satisfying meal that the whole family can enjoy. There are lots of topping options for sure, and I’ll list them in the recipe below. It’s seriously a special option for breakfast, though I’ve whipped them up for dinner too. Sometimes gathering around the table for a warm breakfast is exactly what everyone needs before a busy day begins.

Ingredients:

• 4 eggs
• 2/3 cup flour
• 1 cup milk
• 1 teaspoon salt
• 2 tablespoons sugar
• 2 tablespoons butter
• Optional: a squeeze of fresh lemon over the top

Directions:

Set the oven to 450 degrees.

Place a 9×13-inch baking dish in the oven while it heats.

In a blender or mixer, combine eggs, flour, milk, salt, sugar. Blend until smooth.

Carefully remove the hot baking dish and add the 2 tablespoons of butter. Swirl to melt.

Pour the batter into the hot dish.

Bake for 15-20 minutes, or until puffed and golden brown. Be sure to call the kids when you see it begin to puff up – It’s fun to watch! Bonus points if you turn it into a science lesson!

Add your choice of toppings and serve immediately.

Topping Options:

Sweet Toppings

• Fresh berries (strawberries, blueberries, raspberries)
• Cinnamon sugar sprinkled over the top and sliced bananas
• Powdered sugar
• Maple syrup
• Warm cinnamon apples
• Peach or berry compote
• Nutella and sliced strawberries

Savory Toppings

• Shredded cheddar or Gruyère cheese
• Crispy bacon crumbles
• Diced ham
• Sautéed mushrooms
• Spinach and feta
• Green onions or chives
• Avocado slices
• Smoked salmon with cream cheese
• Scrambled eggs

Family-Friendly Combinations

• Berry Bliss: Mixed berries + powdered sugar
• Apple Pie: Warm cinnamon apples + maple syrup
• Breakfast Classic: Scrambled eggs + Cheddar cheese + bacon crumbles
• Peanut Butter Banana: Banana slices + peanut butter drizzle

 Banana Muffins: Grab-and-Go Goodness

Getty | Straycat

When time is tight, banana muffins can be a mom’s best friend. Bake a batch ahead of time and keep them on hand for rushed mornings. They’re easy to grab on the way out the door and make a great addition to lunchboxes, too.

Not only are they a delicious way to use up ripe bananas, but they’re also a breakfast option that both kids and adults tend to love. Having something ready to go can make all the difference on those extra hectic mornings.

Ingredients:

• 1/2 cup butter
• 1 1/4 cup sugar
• 2 eggs
• 1/2 cup sour cream
• 1 teaspoon vanilla
• 3 ripened and mashed bananas
• 1 3/4 cup flour
• 1 teaspoon soda
• 1/4 teaspoon salt
• Optional: 1 cup of chocolate chips or nuts

Directions:

Set the oven to 350 degrees.

Mix the butter, sugar, eggs, sour cream, vanilla and mashed bananas together.

Add the dry ingredients and mix.

For muffins, bake for 20 minutes.

If you’d rather make banana bread, just pour the batter into a greased bread pan and bake for 1 hour, or until toothpick comes out dry.

Fruit Smoothies: Fast, Fresh, and Kid-Approved

Getty | Arx0nt

Some mornings call for the fastest breakfast possible. That’s where fruit smoothies shine. In just a few minutes, you can blend together fruit, yogurt, milk, or even a handful of spinach for a nutritious breakfast that’s easy to take on the go.

Whether you’re sipping one during school drop-off or handing one to a child on the way to practice, smoothies make it easy to fit healthy ingredients into a busy schedule.

Ingredients:

• 1 cup milk
• 1 cup vanilla yogurt, Greek yogurt is a great option!
• 1 banana
• 1 cup berries (I love using strawberries, blueberries and mango)
• 8 ice cubes
• Optional: 1-2 tablespoons wheat germ or chia seeds, or both!

Directions:

Throw it all in the blender and blend it up. Enjoy!

Whenever possible, gather around the table for meals. The conversations and laughter are so good, and as the years go by, this time to gather together becomes harder and harder to do.

Debbie Sage

And on the mornings when everything feels rushed, remember that God’s mercies are new every morning.

The faithful love of the Lord never ends!
His mercies never cease.
Great is his faithfulness;
his mercies begin afresh each morning.
-Lamentations 3:22-23

Take a deep breath, offer a quick prayer, and trust that He’s already walking with you through every moment of the day.

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We make the appointments. We remember who needs to be where and when. We know which child has practice, which bill needs to be paid, what needs to be bought at the grocery store, and approximately three thousand other details that somehow live permanently in the back of our minds.

We become the calm in the storm.

Or at least, we try very hard to be.

Because when something goes wrong, everyone looks to Mom. And I don’t necessarily mean that they expect us to have all the answers. But somewhere along the way, we have convinced ourselves that if we can just stay calm enough, organized enough, prepared enough, and caffeinated enough, we can keep everyone else from falling apart.

Most of the time, we can at least pretend we have it together.

But then there are days when life throws so many curveballs that you don’t even know which one you’re supposed to catch.

This weekend brought on one of those days.

It started with news that two people very close in our family would need biopsies. Two people we love. Two people whose names and faces immediately made our hearts hurt a little. And, as if one biopsy wasn’t enough to process, we learned that both would be happening on the exact same day.

There is something about the word biopsy that makes everything feel suddenly more serious. It is a word that leaves you sitting in the uncomfortable space between not knowing and knowing. You can’t fast-forward to the results. You can’t research your way into certainty. You can’t do anything to make the waiting go faster.

You just wait.

And apparently, waiting wasn’t going to be the only thing on our weekend agenda.

Because right around the same time we were trying to process the biopsy news, the batteries in my car and another family member’s car decided they had simply had enough.

At almost the exact same time.

I mean, really?

There are moments in life when you have to wonder if someone is writing a sitcom about you.

Two biopsies? Check.

Two dead car batteries? Check.

Emotional stability? Questionable.

At this point, we were all trying to keep track of who needed to be where, who was having what procedure, who needed a ride, and which car was actually going to start. It was the kind of day where you find yourself laughing because the alternative is sitting on the floor and staring at the wall.

So, naturally, we decided the best thing to do was to eat dinner outside.

I think we were all craving a little normalcy. Nothing fancy. Just sitting around a table, eating dinner, talking, enjoying the last bits of summer, and pretending for a few minutes that life was normal.

And honestly, it almost worked.

Until my brother-in-law swatted at a yellow jacket.

Now, I don’t know what the yellow jacket’s original plan was that evening, but apparently it had strong feelings about being swatted. Instead of flying away like a reasonable insect, it changed course and headed directly for me.

And stung me.

Right on the arm.

Of course it did.

At that point, we all just lost it.

We laughed. We cried. I think there may have been some yelling on my part. My arm hurt, our hearts hurt, and the entire situation had become so completely ridiculous that there was really nothing left to do but laugh.

Two biopsies.

Two dead batteries.

One angry yellow jacket.

It was almost impressive.

And maybe sometimes laughter is its own kind of grace. Not because anything is actually funny, but because sometimes your heart needs a tiny break from carrying the weight of everything.

Eventually, the waiting ended.

One biopsy came back negative, bringing an enormous wave of relief and gratitude. The other came back with a different outcome.

And just like that, our family found ourselves holding both relief and heartbreak at the very same time.

I think that is one of the strange things about life. We want everything to resolve neatly. We want the good news to follow the bad news, the problem to be fixed, and the story to wrap itself up before we have to go to bed.

But sometimes it doesn’t.

Sometimes one prayer is answered in the way we desperately hoped, while another prayer leaves us sitting in a place we never wanted to be.

And as a mom, I find that particularly difficult.

Because so much of motherhood is about managing the madness.

We become really good at anticipating problems. We plan ahead. We carry snacks. We have backup plans for our backup plans. We try to soften the hard things before they ever reach the people we love.

We want to be the calm in the storm.

But what happens when the storm is bigger than anything you can organize?

What happens when there is nothing to fix?

What happens when the person you love is waiting for an answer you cannot give them?

What happens when you can’t make the car start, can’t change the biopsy results, and can’t even keep a yellow jacket from attacking you during dinner?

You realize just how little control you actually have.

And, honestly, that is a hard reality for me.

I am a fixer. I like plans. I like knowing what comes next. I like believing that if I work hard enough, think carefully enough, pray enough, organize enough, I can somehow keep the wheels from coming off.

But there are moments when God gently—and sometimes not so gently—reminds me that I was never actually holding all of this together.

He was.

Maybe that is what Scripture means when it says, “Cast all your anxiety on him because he cares for you.” (1 Peter 5:7)

Not some of it.

All of it.

The biopsy we are afraid of. The diagnosis we don’t understand. The person we love and can’t protect. The car battery. The yellow jacket. The things we can fix and, perhaps more importantly, the things we absolutely cannot.

We are told so often that God won’t give us more than we can handle.

But I’m not sure that’s actually true.

Sometimes life simply gives us more than we can handle.

And perhaps those are the moments when we discover something important:

We were never meant to handle it all alone.

God doesn’t promise that we won’t have storms. He doesn’t promise that every biopsy will come back negative, every car will start, or every yellow jacket will leave us alone.

But He does promise to be with us in the middle of them.

Sometimes He allows us to reach the end of ourselves so we finally realize that we don’t have to carry everything ourselves.

Sometimes He brings us to our knees so we will finally put it all at His feet.

And maybe that is where faith becomes less about having answers and more about surrender.

This weekend didn’t end with everything neatly resolved. There is still uncertainty. There are still conversations to have, questions to answer, and days ahead that we can’t predict.

But there is also this:

• God was there for the negative result.
• God is there for the other outcome.
• God was there when the batteries died.
• God was there when the yellow jacket stung my arm.
• God was there around that dinner table when we were laughing and crying because, honestly, what else could we do?

Maybe that’s the reminder I needed.

I don’t have to be the calm because I have everything under control.

I can be calm because I know who is in control.

And maybe that is the difference.

As moms, we will always want to catch the curveballs. We will always want to protect the people we love and make the hard things easier. We will always want to keep the wheels on.

But sometimes life throws too many things at us at once.

Sometimes the batteries die. The biopsy comes back differently than we hoped. The yellow jacket stings you right in the middle of dinner.

And sometimes all you can do is laugh, cry, fall to your knees, and say, “God, I can’t handle this.”

Maybe that isn’t failure.

Maybe that’s faith.

Because when we finally admit that we can’t hold it all together, we make room for the One who never asked us to.

And on the days when life feels like too much—when the bees sting, the batteries die, and the news isn’t what we hoped—I can open my hands, give it back to Him, and remember:

I may not be able to control the storm.

But I never have to face it alone.

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]]> https://www.allmomdoes.com/blog/bee-stings-batteries-and-biopsies/feed/ 0 https://www.allmomdoes.com/blog/the-easiest-pumpkin-cookies-you-will-ever-make/ https://www.allmomdoes.com/blog/the-easiest-pumpkin-cookies-you-will-ever-make/#respond Wed, 09 Sep 2026 17:00:38 +0000 Joanna Gott 2026-09-09T17:18:35+00:00 https://d955.cms.socastsrm.com/?p=61114 Joanna Gott Somewhere over Labor Day weekend, I swear someone flipped a switch.

One minute we were soaking up the last bits of summer, and next it was 60 degrees and raining. I was suddenly craving cozy sweaters, candles that smell like cinnamon, football on the TV, and basically anything that involves pumpkin. The calendar may still technically say summer, but my heart has moved on.

And when that switch gets flipped in our house, there is one recipe I immediately want to make: our all-time favorite pumpkin cookies.

These might be the easiest pumpkin cookies you will ever make. And I don’t say that lightly.

There are three ingredients. That’s it.

No butter to soften. No mixer. No complicated list of spices. No carefully measuring out flour, baking soda, cinnamon, nutmeg and seventeen other things hiding in the back of your spice cabinet.

Just a box of spice cake mix, a can of pumpkin, and chocolate chips.

In fact, my daughter Penny can now make these all by herself, which is one of my favorite things about this recipe. They’re the kind of cookies that are actually fun to make with kids because there isn’t much that can go wrong. Dump, mix, scoop, bake. Done.

And honestly, those are my favorite kinds of recipes.

The ones where you don’t have to spend the afternoon measuring ingredients while simultaneously answering questions, wiping up spills, and reminding someone for the fourth time not to eat the chocolate chips.

The 3-Ingredient Pumpkin Cookies

Download Recipe Card

Ingredients

• 1 box spice cake mix
• 1 15-ounce can pumpkin purée
• 1 cup chocolate chips of your choice

And here’s an important note: Do not make the cake mix! Just use the dry cake mix straight from the box.

Instructions

1. Preheat your oven to 375°F.
2. Mix the dry spice cake mix, pumpkin purée, and chocolate chips together until well blended.
3. Use a cookie scoop to place approximately 2-tablespoon scoops onto a greased cookie sheet.
4. Bake for 12 minutes.
5. Let them cool and enjoy!

That’s literally it.

And because the recipe is so simple, it’s also incredibly easy to make your own.

Our favorite is usually chocolate chips, but you can switch them up depending on what you have in the pantry—or what sounds good that particular day.

Try milk chocolate chips for something extra sweet, dark chocolate chips for a richer flavor, or white chocolate chips for a fun twist. Butterscotch chips are also really good and give these cookies an especially cozy, fall flavor.

You can even add chopped nuts if that’s your thing. Walnuts or pecans would be delicious.

And if you happen to have a bag of chocolate chips that’s been sitting in your pantry for months because you bought them for a recipe you never made, this is your sign to use them.

One Little Tip

There is one thing I’ve learned after making these cookies: they can get a little mushy if you immediately put them into a container while they’re still soft.

So I like to let the cookies sit out overnight before putting them into a Tupperware or glass container. You can also store them in the refrigerator, which helps keep them from getting too soft.

They’re not a crisp cookie. They’re soft and cakey and wonderfully pumpkin-y—which is part of what makes them so good. But giving them a little time to dry out makes all the difference.

I love recipes like this for so many reasons, but mostly because they remind me that making something special doesn’t have to be complicated.

You don’t need an entire afternoon. You don’t need a Pinterest-perfect kitchen. You don’t even need to be a particularly good baker.

You just need a box of cake mix, a can of pumpkin, some chocolate chips, and maybe a little helper standing on a chair beside you.

For us, that little helper is Penny, and I love that she can make these cookies herself. There is something so sweet about watching your kids gain that little bit of independence in the kitchen—especially when the end result is a warm cookie you get to eat together.

So if the fall switch has been flipped at your house too, pull out the pumpkin.

Put on the cozy music.

Let the kids help.

And make the easiest pumpkin cookies you will ever make.

Because sometimes the best fall traditions aren’t complicated at all. Sometimes they’re just three ingredients, a messy kitchen, and a plate of cookies disappearing a little too quickly.

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Read more of Joanna’s contributions to AllMomDoes here.

This content is syndicated from allmomdoes: https://purposely.com/podcasts/allmomdoes-podcast/what-a-decade-of-raising-an-original-has-taught-me-with-julie-lyles-carr/ Find more content at AllMomDoes Podcast Archives - Purposely Podcasts and subscribe to the allmomdoes Podcast on Apple Podcasts, Google Podcasts, Stitcher, Spotify, and more!

Welcome to September!

September often feels more like the start of a new year than January does.  Not only do kids head back for a fresh year of schooling, but moms feel a sudden urge for new beginnings as well.

For many mothers a new start comes with decluttering the house.  Garage sale signs pop up on every corner and the lines to donate are long.  It’s time for “out-with-the-old and in-with-the-new”.  Everyone could do with a fresh start in September. 

“Do not lay up for yourselves treasures on earth, where moth and rust destroy and where thieves break in and steal, but lay up for yourselves treasures in heaven, where neither moth nor rust destroys and where thieves do not break in and steal. For where your treasure is, there your heart will be also.” Matthew 6:19-21

We’ve all heard that scripture verse.  It provides the perfect prompt to get rid of things.  But what if you’re not the decluttering type?

I recently saw a picture online of a woman sitting sadly in the middle of a huge mess.  The text said: “When the urge to declutter wears off and now you just made everything worse.”  I kept the picture because I have lived that moment so many times.  I tend to pull everything out of a closet or cabinet, look around at the mess, and want to cry instead of dealing with it all.  There are people who love to organize, and bless their hearts, I wish I could afford to hire one.

I recently read about yet another way to declutter and it peaked my interest.  It’s called:

“DECLUTTERING BURSTS”

Usually experts recommend that you take a slow approach to decluttering.  And that’s smart advice.  Rome wasn’t built in a day and you didn’t gather your junk in that amount of time either.  But what if you have trouble maintaining the focus and the motivation to keep at it?

This new method turns the expert’s advice on its head and is a perfect method for those of us who are sprinters and not marathon runners.  I get bored easily and any chore that takes too long drives me crazy.  I do fine in short bursts though.

Job 32:19: “Inside I am like bottled-up wine, like new wineskins ready to burst.”

Here are the instructions.

All you need are a donation box, a garbage bag, and a timer.  Once you’ve gathered your three items, you set your timer for one hour and hit the floor running.  Your goal is to get 100 things out of the house in one hour!

When my kids were little we often played the “beat the clock” game.  It was so much more fun to put away laundry and empty the dishwasher if we set a timer to see how fast it could be done.  So I figured this method had some merit.

Before you start, here are some helpful hints.

• Bathroom – Open the cabinet and toss out old make-up, old prescriptions, ragged towels, or products you bought and didn’t care for.
• Junk drawer – Move onto the junk drawer. Throw away random screws, dried pens, old receipts, take-out menus, and old keys.
• Kitchen – Open the fridge and throw out old condiments and expired food.  Whenever my kids visit they do this for me and then laugh at my “grandma fridge”.  Toss duplicate utensils, old spices, and extra cups or towels.  Look under the sink for dried up cleaning supplies. It all counts.
• Closets – Don’t freak out.  Closets can be stressful.  You are not trying to clean the whole thing out.  Just grab worn out sheets, itchy blankets, coats you never wear, clothes with tags still on that you’ve never worn, hats, scarves or gloves.
• Craft Drawers – This one is huge for me. I’ve bought so many art supplies that I thought I would use someday.  I didn’t have any idea what I already had and kept buying duplicates.  An artist in my local buy nothing group asked for supplies and it made clearing stuff out more fun because I knew it was going to someone who needed it.
• Living Room – My living room is my oasis but I still have books and knick-knacks that need to go.
• Your Closet – Again, do not panic.  We’re not doing an overhaul.  Just look for shoes that pinch, unworn clothes, things you “might” fit into someday, and accessories that are outdated.
• Garage and Attic – Donate any box you haven’t opened in years.  You’ve lived without it this long.  You don’t need it!

Of course I can’t recommend this method if I haven’t tried it for myself.  I was nervous and began to doubt whether it was possible.  One hundred items in an hour?  It felt a bit overwhelming, which was the feeling I was trying to avoid!

I enlisted my husband’s help and gathered my box, bag, and timer.  I set the alarm and we took off running.  My husband was saying things like, “We can’t do one hundred things!” and “I don’t think there’s anything else.”

The result though?  We found over one hundred things in twenty-three minutes!

Ann Kirsten

I wanted to take a picture so we put everything on the table.  You can skip this step and put yours right into a box or bag.

Things to remember as you work:

1. This is NOT about making an area look pristine and organized.  This is simply getting rid of 100 things in your house.
2. You will be tempted to finish cleaning areas you search.  Good.  Go back at another time and do that.
3. You may find this method so helpful that you will repeat it on a monthly basis.
4. Enlist your family’s help.  You’ll finish even faster.
5. On those days when you feel guilty for not wanting to do anything, a simple hour (or 23 minutes!) will get rid of that guilt.

I now have gathered a whole bunch of ways to declutter my house.  I am adding this method to my list and will choose ways to clean depending on how I feel that day.

And I look forward to the day when I will be in a place where there is no more clutter.

^“And if I go and prepare a place for you, I will come back and take you to be with me that you also may be where I am.” John 14:3

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Read more of Ann’s contributions to AllMomDoes here.

]]> https://www.allmomdoes.com/blog/decluttering-bursts-the-surprisingly-easy-organizing-method-for-overwhelmed-moms/feed/ 0 https://purposely.com/podcasts/gospel-tech/for-youth-guarding-and-building-up-our-tech/ https://purposely.com/podcasts/gospel-tech/for-youth-guarding-and-building-up-our-tech/#respond Tue, 08 Sep 2026 07:05:19 +0000 Purposely 2026-09-08T07:05:19+00:00 https://purposely.com/?p=20444

This content is syndicated from allmomdoes: https://purposely.com/podcasts/gospel-tech/for-youth-guarding-and-building-up-our-tech/ Find more content at Gospel Tech Archives - Purposely Podcasts and subscribe to the allmomdoes Podcast on Apple Podcasts, Google Podcasts, Stitcher, Spotify, and more!

The good news? Connecting with your spouse doesn’t have to cost a lot. Some of the sweetest moments happen when you’re simply intentional about spending time together.

Remember: It’s About Connection, Not Perfection

Social media can make date nights look like fancy dinners, weekend getaways, and picture-perfect sunsets. But real life often looks more like frozen pizza, tired parents, and someone falling asleep halfway through the movie.

And that’s okay.

Marriage isn’t strengthened by expensive experiences. It’s strengthened by showing up for one another, laughing together, and making space to reconnect in the middle of everyday life.

Inexpensive Date Night Ideas You’ll Actually Want to Try

Take a Walk Together

After the kids are in bed or while they’re at youth group, head outside for a walk. Leave the distractions behind and simply talk.

You might be surprised how much easier it is to connect when you’re side-by-side instead of staring at screens.

Coffee Shop Date

Skip the expensive dinner and grab your favorite coffee or tea. Sit by the window, play a card game, people-watch, and enjoy an uninterrupted conversation.

Bonus points if neither of you talks about the family calendar for at least ten minutes.

Backyard Dessert Night

Put the kids to bed, grab a blanket, enjoy ice cream or cookies outside, and talk under the stars.

Simple? Absolutely.

Raining or cold? Have a carpet picnic inside!

Cook Together

Pick a recipe you’ve never tried and make it as a team. Even if dinner turns out less than Pinterest-worthy, you’ll probably gain a funny story to tell later.

Game Night for Two

Pull out a board game, card game, or even a puzzle. A little friendly competition can bring a lot of laughter into a marriage.

Just remember that “friendly” is the key word.

Recreate Your First Date

Think back to where it all began. Maybe it was coffee, a walk, a burger place, or a movie. Recreating those early memories can remind you how far God has brought you together.

Take a Drive

Sometimes a change of scenery is enough. Grab a snack, turn on your favorite music, and take a drive through town or a nearby scenic area.

No agenda. No pressure. Just time together.

Why Small Moments Matter

As moms, we’re often focused on meeting everyone else’s needs. But investing in your marriage is one of the greatest gifts you can give your family.

A healthy marriage creates security, models commitment, and reflects God’s love in the home. Even small moments of connection can help strengthen your relationship over time.

Don’t underestimate what God can do through a simple conversation, a shared laugh, or an hour spent together.

A Reminder

If your last date night was so long ago you can’t remember what year it was, don’t feel guilty. Life has seasons, and some are especially full.

Just start where you are.

A thriving marriage isn’t built on extravagant plans. It’s built one intentional moment at a time.

A Simple Prayer

Lord, thank You for the gift of marriage. Help us make time for one another, even in the busiest seasons. Teach us to prioritize connection, laughter, and love, and remind us that small moments spent together can have a lasting impact. Amen.

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]]> https://www.allmomdoes.com/blog/inexpensive-date-night-ideas-that-strengthen-your-marriage-and-your-budget/feed/ 0 https://www.allmomdoes.com/blog/im-sorry-im-not-apologizing-my-house-looks-like-love-lives-here/ https://www.allmomdoes.com/blog/im-sorry-im-not-apologizing-my-house-looks-like-love-lives-here/#respond Thu, 03 Sep 2026 17:00:50 +0000 Ann Kirsten 2026-09-05T14:52:05+00:00 https://d955.cms.socastsrm.com/?p=61074

In another video the husband screeches, “We have to set unrealistic expectations of how we live!”  And then as the company enters a perfectly clean home, the “wife” says, “I’m sorry it’s so messy I just haven’t had time to clean.”

Why do we do that to ourselves?

“My presence will go with you, and I will give you rest.” Exodus 33:14

I remember my mom and dad had friends and they would trade hosting each other every other week.  One week it was just too much for my mom and she didn’t clean like she usually did.  The other lady walked in and said, “Oh, thank goodness, now I don’t have to break my back cleaning for you anymore.”  It was a relief for both of them.

When I host people at my house I do run around like a mad woman and clean everything.  I used to think that it was because I wanted my guests to feel serene and peaceful in a tidy home.  I’m questioning that now.  Was that the whole reason or was I guilt cleaning?  It was locked in my brain that being a mom and a woman meant that you had to keep a clean and perfect house.

I dislike housework a LOT.  So, usually I let things slide in between get-togethers.  That means that I have to run around even more to present a fake front when company is coming.  It’s exhausting trying to show that I have it all together (I do not).

So when a dear friend announced that she was coming over for a visit this week, my first inclination was to start my crazy cleaning frenzy.  But not only did I not feel like cleaning, I had a leg infection and the meds I was taking made me feel exhausted and ill.

In the days that followed I sat in my chair and looked around at all the things I “should” be doing.  I waited for the pre-company energy to hit me and it never did.  And then a small thought entered my brain, “Could I actually have people over without making my house look like a tidy person lived in it?”  I decided to experiment.  And here’s what I did:

Nothing.  I did nothing!

The floors weren’t swept and mopped.  The garbage cans weren’t emptied.  There were no bouquets in the bathrooms, no artful displays on every table, and no baked goods to serve company.  I did not run myself ragged cleaning everything in sight.

And it felt great.

And guess what, she didn’t even notice.  We curled up on the couch and visited for hours.  She paid no attention to dust balls, used tissues or the sewing project that was piled around us.  If she did notice anything SHE DID NOT CARE!

To take my experiment further I didn’t apologize.  I didn’t say a word about the messes and piles.  Because this is where life happens.  Why should I try and create a false picture of how I live? Why should I be ashamed that a full and messy life goes on in here?  There are toys on the floor, partially finished craft projects on almost every surface, tomatoes ripening in windows, and folded laundry stacked on the dining room table.  And that is my life.

I recently came across a meme that said:

That spoke to me on a deep level because that’s how I live my life.  And I want more of that whimsy in my life, not less.  I keep every rock my grandkids give me.  I leave the toys out that they played with when they visited because the sight of them makes me smile.  I start new projects before the old ones are finished because I’m drawn to so many different things.

Should I feel ashamed of all that?  Should I hide it away when company comes?  Don’t my friends love me for who I am and not for how clean I can make my house?

There will of course be times when I do a frenzy-clean, but there will also be times when I don’t.

And I will work on feeling fine with whichever way the pendulum swings.  After all, living a Mom and Nana life is a full and wild ride and why shouldn’t I let that show?

 “Unless the Lord builds the house, those who build it labor in vain. Unless the Lord guards the city, the guard keeps watch in vain. It is in vain that you rise up early and go late to rest, eating the bread of anxious toil; for he gives sleep to his beloved.” Psalm 127:1-2

I allowed the rest and peace that only comes from the Lord to enter my soul this week.  And it felt great.

I’m not going to apologize for that.

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Read more of Ann’s contributions to AllMomDoes here.

]]> https://www.allmomdoes.com/blog/im-sorry-im-not-apologizing-my-house-looks-like-love-lives-here/feed/ 0 https://www.allmomdoes.com/blog/gluten-free-apple-cider-donut-bread/ https://www.allmomdoes.com/blog/gluten-free-apple-cider-donut-bread/#respond Wed, 02 Sep 2026 17:00:04 +0000 Maria Magee 2026-09-16T13:35:06+00:00 https://d955.cms.socastsrm.com/?p=61050 Maria Magee Sweet September is finally here, along with all the feelings of fall! Delicious baked goods are one of the best things about this season. There are so many cozy flavors to enjoy as the leaves begin to change and we wake up to that refreshing, crisp morning air. If you’re looking for a fall-flavored recipe this month, what could be better than a quick bread that tastes like apple-cinnamon donuts?! The cinnamon sugar topping adds a tasty crunch that pairs so nicely with the fluffy, spice-filled bread. It goes perfectly with a cup of coffee or tea and makes for a comforting after-school snack!

September might be full of schedule changes, new classrooms, and football games, but taking the time to bake up this sweet treat will definitely be worth it. Tummies will be full, your kitchen will smell heavenly, and hopefully it will even remind you to slow down a little and appreciate the simple things amidst the back-to-school chaos. Happy fall!

Ingredients:

• 4 cups Bob’s Red Mill Gluten-Free Flour (or regular flour if you prefer!)
• 3 tsp baking powder
• 1 tsp baking soda
• 1 tsp salt
• 3 tsp cinnamon
• 1 tsp cloves
• 1 tsp ginger
• 1 tsp nutmeg
• 1 cup apple cider
• ½ cup unsweetened apple sauce
• 1 cup (2 sticks) butter, room temperature
• 1 cup brown sugar
• 1 cup white sugar
• 2 tsp vanilla extract
• 3 eggs

Cinnamon Sugar Topping:

• 1/2 cup white sugar
• 1 ½  Tbsp cinnamon

Directions:

Preheat the oven to 350 degrees and grease two loaf pans. (for easier removal, line the loaf pans with parchment paper that hangs over the sides by a few inches-I forgot this step today!)

In medium bowl, gently whisk the dry ingredients.

In a large bowl, cream the sugars and butter. Beat in one egg at a time. Stir in vanilla extract.

In a small bowl, whisk the applesauce and cider.

Maria Magee

In another small bowl, mix the cinnamon and sugar for the topping and set aside.

Maria Magee

Pour half of the dry flour mixture into the bowl with the wet ingredients and stir until just combined. Then, pour in half of the apple cider/applesauce mixture. Once combined, repeat this step and stir in the remaining flour followed by the rest of the cider mixture.

Maria Magee

Pour the batter evenly into your loaf pans and smooth out the top.

Maria Magee

Sprinkle the cinnamon sugar topping on each loaf.

Maria Magee

Bake for 45-50 minutes or until toothpick comes out clean.

Maria Magee

Allow the bread to rest in the pans on a cooling rack for about 15 minutes, then turn out onto the rack.

Maria Magee

Enjoy!

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Read more of Maria’s contributions to AllMomDoes here.

This content is syndicated from allmomdoes: https://purposely.com/podcasts/allmomdoes-podcast/getting-a-do-over-with-emerson-eggerichs-and-joy-eggerichs-reed/ Find more content at AllMomDoes Podcast Archives - Purposely Podcasts and subscribe to the allmomdoes Podcast on Apple Podcasts, Google Podcasts, Stitcher, Spotify, and more!

This content is syndicated from allmomdoes: https://purposely.com/podcasts/gospel-tech/using-the-best-tech-well-2/ Find more content at Gospel Tech Archives - Purposely Podcasts and subscribe to the allmomdoes Podcast on Apple Podcasts, Google Podcasts, Stitcher, Spotify, and more!

One minute you’re taking photos by the front door, and the next you’re holding back tears as your child heads off to a classroom, a new teacher, and a year full of unknowns. Along with hopes for friendships, learning, and growth, many parents quietly carry another concern:

Will my child be safe?

If you’ve ever felt that tension between wanting to protect your child and knowing you can’t be with them every moment, you’re not alone. As parents, it’s natural to worry. But as people of faith, we’re invited to do something powerful: prepare wisely and trust the Lord deeply.

Back-to-school safety isn’t just about rules and precautions. It’s also about teaching our children that God is with them wherever they go.

Safety Begins with Everyday Habits

Most safety conversations aren’t about emergencies. They’re about the small, everyday choices that help our kids navigate the world confidently.

Talk with your children about:

• Paying attention when crossing streets
• Walking with friends when possible
• Following school and bus safety rules
• Checking in when plans change

These conversations may seem simple, but they’re an important part of helping children develop awareness and responsibility.

Faith Reflection

Throughout Scripture, we see that wisdom often shows up in practical ways. God cares not only about our spiritual lives but also about how we live each day. Teaching our children good habits is one way we help them steward the lives God has entrusted to them.

“The prudent see danger and take refuge, but the simple keep going and pay the penalty.” (Proverbs 22:3)

Being prepared isn’t a lack of faith. It’s an expression of wisdom.

Teach Your Child to Use Their Voice

One of the greatest gifts we can give our children is the confidence to speak up.

Help them understand that if something feels wrong, confusing, or unsafe, they should tell a trusted adult. Whether it’s a problem at school, a difficult friendship, bullying, or an uncomfortable situation, kids need to know that their concerns matter.

Sometimes children stay silent because they’re afraid of getting in trouble or disappointing someone. Remind them often:

You can always come to me.

Faith Reflection

God created each child with value, dignity, and a voice. Teaching children to advocate for themselves helps them recognize that they are worthy of being heard and protected.

When we encourage open communication, we’re creating a safe place where truth and confidence can flourish.

Don’t Forget Online Safety

For many kids, the school day doesn’t end when they leave campus.

Homework, class discussions, friendships, and social interactions often continue online. That’s why digital safety should be part of your back-to-school routine. We highly recommend the Gospel Tech podcast for parental support on managing tech.

Have regular conversations about:

• Protecting personal information
• Using kindness online
• Avoiding conversations with strangers
• Reporting anything that feels uncomfortable
• Being thoughtful before posting

The goal isn’t to create fear. The goal is to create awareness and healthy boundaries.

Faith Reflection

Our words matter, whether they’re spoken in person or typed on a screen. As followers of Jesus, we’re called to use our words to encourage and build others up.

Teaching children digital responsibility is another way we help them reflect God’s love and wisdom in their daily lives.

Safety Starts with Connection

Here’s something many experts and parents alike have discovered: children who feel connected to caring adults are more likely to speak up when they need help.

That’s why one of the best safety tools isn’t found in a backpack. It’s found in your relationship.

Ask questions after school.

Listen more than you lecture.

Create moments where your child feels seen and understood.

Some days you’ll get a one-word answer. Other days you’ll hear stories that seem to last forever. Both matter.

The stronger the connection, the more likely your child will come to you when something important happens.

Faith Reflection

God models this kind of relationship with us. He invites us to bring Him our fears, questions, and struggles. As parents, we have the opportunity to mirror that same loving presence for our children.

When they know they’re safe with us, they gain confidence to face the world around them.

When Worry Creeps In

Let’s be honest: no amount of preparation completely removes a parent’s concerns.

There will always be situations beyond our control. News headlines can make the world feel unsettling, and our imaginations can quickly run toward every possible “what if.”

But God doesn’t ask us to carry those burdens alone.

When anxiety starts to overwhelm, we can bring our fears to Him in prayer. Not because we know exactly what the future holds, but because we know Who holds our children.

Faith Reflection

One of the most comforting truths for parents is that God loves our children even more than we do. His care doesn’t stop when they step onto the bus or walk into the classroom.

Every hallway, playground, cafeteria, and classroom is already known to Him.

“For He will command His angels concerning you to guard you in all your ways.” (Psalm 91:11)

A Prayer for the School Year

Father, as this school year begins, we place our children into Your loving hands. Give them wisdom, confidence, and courage as they navigate new classrooms, friendships, and experiences. Protect them physically, emotionally, and spiritually. Surround them with caring teachers, trusted adults, and friends who encourage them. Help us as parents to prepare wisely without living in fear. When worries arise, remind us that You go before our children and remain with them throughout each day. May this be a year of growth, learning, joy, and deeper trust in You. Amen.

As parents, we’ll always wish we could protect our children from every challenge. But while we can’t walk every hallway with them, we can equip them with wisdom, surround them with prayer, and trust the God who never leaves their side.

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]]> https://www.allmomdoes.com/blog/back-to-school-safety-trusting-god-while-preparing-our-kids/feed/ 0 https://www.allmomdoes.com/blog/the-5-craft-supplies-that-will-get-you-through-fall/ https://www.allmomdoes.com/blog/the-5-craft-supplies-that-will-get-you-through-fall/#respond Thu, 27 Aug 2026 17:00:33 +0000 Joanna Gott 2026-08-31T13:50:55+00:00 https://d955.cms.socastsrm.com/?p=61022

Maybe it’s the cooler afternoons, the leaves changing outside our windows, or the fact that we’re spending a little more time at home. Summer has a way of keeping us moving from one thing to the next, but fall seems to invite us to slow down a little. To stay home. To make a mess at the kitchen table. To pull out the craft supplies and see what we can come up with.

Some of my favorite afternoons with Penny have started with a very simple statement/question: “I’m bored…what are we going to do?”

And usually, the answer doesn’t require a trip to the craft store.

In fact, I’ve learned that some of the best craft supplies are already sitting around our house. An empty cardboard box, a toilet paper tube, a handful of popsicle sticks, some paint that has been sitting in the drawer—all of it can become something entirely different with a little imagination.

I love that kind of crafting. There’s no pressure to make something Pinterest-perfect or to have every supply on the list. It’s just about sitting down together, putting something in our hands, and seeing where our creativity takes us.

So if you want to keep a few simple supplies on hand this fall, these are the five I would choose. And chances are, you already have at least a few of them tucked away somewhere.

1. Paint

Of course paint makes the list. There is almost nothing you can’t make a little more delightful with a bit of paint.

Watercolor, acrylic, tempera—use whatever you already have. Fall is the perfect time to pull out warm, cozy colors like rust, mustard, olive, cream, brown, and dusty pink, but don’t feel like you have to stick to a traditional fall palette.

With paint, you can make:

• Painted leaves and paper garlands
• Tiny pumpkins on paper or cardboard
• Painted rocks
• Homemade bookmarks
• Watercolor fall landscapes
• Painted paper plates turned into pumpkins
• Hand-painted gift tags
• Mini paintings to frame or give to a friend
• Painted pinecones
• A fall-inspired painting banner

I especially love crafts where the finished product doesn’t need to be perfect. A wobbly line or uneven brushstroke somehow makes it feel even more special.

2. Boxes

Before you toss that Amazon box into the recycling bin, save it!

Cardboard boxes are one of the most versatile craft supplies you can have, especially when you’re crafting with kids. They can become almost anything with a pair of scissors, some paint, and a little imagination.

Turn a box into a:

• Fall birdhouse
• Haunted house
• Pumpkin patch
• Barn
• Dollhouse
• Cardboard castle
• Little shop or market
• Puppet theater
• Fall village
• Giant pumpkin
• Mailbox for notes and drawings

One of my favorite things about using cardboard boxes is that there is no pressure to “get it right.” You can cut into it, paint over it, glue something on top, and completely change your mind. It’s basically the craft equivalent of a blank canvas.

3. Cardboard Tubes

Yes, I mean those little cardboard tubes left behind by toilet paper and paper towels.

Start saving them in a basket, and before long you’ll have a surprisingly impressive craft supply collection.

A cardboard tube can become:

• An owl
• A turkey
• A little pumpkin
• A scarecrow
• A spider
• A bat
• A fox
• A tree
• A napkin ring
• A set of binoculars for little explorers
• A miniature person or animal
• A Thanksgiving place card holder

Cut the tube into rings and you can also use the little circles to stamp patterns with paint. Or flatten one end into a leaf shape and make your own leaf stamps.

There is something wonderfully satisfying about taking something that was destined for the trash and turning it into something completely different.

4. Pipe Cleaners

Pipe cleaners are one of those supplies that seem almost too simple to be useful—and then you start crafting with them and realize just how much you can do.

They bend, twist, wrap, curl, and hold their shape, which makes them perfect for little hands.

Try making:

• Fall leaves
• Tiny pumpkins
• Spiders
• Acorns
• Corn stalks
• Little trees
• Leaf crowns
• Animal figures
• Friendship bracelets
• Garland
• Bookmarks
• Tiny flowers

You can even combine pipe cleaners with cardboard tubes to create little characters or animals. Add some paint, googly eyes, or pom-poms, and suddenly your recycling bin is starting to look like a craft store.

5. Popsicle Sticks

If you have kids, chances are you already have a pile of these somewhere. If you don’t, they’re inexpensive and easy to keep in your craft stash.

Popsicle sticks are perfect for building, gluing, and creating little structures.

Use them to make:

• Fall signs
• Picture frames
• Birdhouses
• Little scarecrows
• Acorn people
• Leaf garlands
• Pumpkin patches
• Mini fences
• Bookmarks
• Coasters
• Tiny houses

And don’t be afraid to mix them with the other supplies on this list. A popsicle-stick fence around a cardboard pumpkin patch? Adorable. A painted cardboard tube with pipe-cleaner arms? Even better.

And a Few Extras…

If you have room in your craft basket, there are a few other things worth saving throughout the fall: pinecones, ribbon, pom-poms, buttons, leaves, twine, and scraps of paper.

Pinecones can become little owls, turkeys, trees, or woodland creatures. Ribbon can turn into garland, bows, wreath decorations, or hair accessories. Pom-poms make wonderful little pumpkins, ghosts, animals, and snowmen once winter arrives.

The goal isn’t to have every craft supply imaginable. It’s to look around your house a little differently.

That empty box? A house.

That cardboard tube? A turkey.

That pinecone from the backyard? A tiny woodland creature waiting to happen.

That leftover ribbon? A garland.

And a rainy afternoon with your favorite little person? An invitation.

Because sometimes the best kind of creativity starts with what you already have. Gather a few simple supplies, clear off the kitchen table, put on a pot of something warm, and see what happens.

You might be surprised by how much fun you and your kids can make with a handful of things you were about to throw away.

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 “If you could only eat one food for the rest of your life, what would you choose?”

For my husband, the answer is steak.  For my grandson, it’s pizza.

I think of that question when I read about the Israelites traveling to The Promised Land.

God dropped manna from heaven for them every morning.  What a miracle that was and what a blessing.  They were given food on a daily basis for sustenance without having to hunt for it or go hungry.  They didn’t even have to store it or keep it fresh.  They just had to have faith that God would provide a fresh batch every day.

But they ate that manna for forty years.  That’s a long time.  I doubt that my guys would really be happy eating only steak or pizza for forty days.  Would anyone?

It’s easy to be judgmental when I read about the Israelites complaining about the manna.  Seriously, people?  God is providing heavenly nourishment for you and you’re complaining?  Talk about spoiled children!  But would I have been any different?  That’s a scary thought.

Let’s dive into manna.

The Israelites started complaining rather quickly.

^“The Israelites said to them, “If only we had died by the Lord’s hand in Egypt! There we sat around pots of meat and ate all the food we wanted, but you have brought us out into this desert to starve this entire assembly to death.”  Exodus 16:3

Exodus 16:4 states: “Then the LORD said to Moses, ‘Behold, I am about to rain bread from heaven for you, and the people shall go out and gather a day’s portion every day, that I may test them, whether they will walk in my law or not‘”.

^“The Lord said to Moses, “I have heard the grumbling of the Israelites. Tell them, ‘At twilight you will eat meat, and in the morning you will be filled with bread. Then you will know that I am the Lord your God.’”  Exodus 16:11-12

^“That evening quail came and covered the camp, and in the morning there was a layer of dew around the camp. When the dew was gone, thin flakes like frost on the ground appeared on the desert floor.  When the Israelites saw it, they said to each other, “What is it?” For they did not know what it was.”  Exodus 16:13-15

The meaning of the word “manna” is WHAT IS IT?  Can you imagine?  Manna was not seen before the exodus or after.

“Moses said to them, “It is the bread the Lord has given you to eat. ¹⁶ This is what the Lord has commanded: ‘Everyone is to gather as much as they need. Take an omer for each person you have in your tent.’”  Exodus 16:15 – 16

(An omer is roughly 9-10 cups).

^“The Israelites did as they were told; some gathered much, some little. ¹⁸ And when they measured it by the omer, the one who gathered much did not have too much, and the one who gathered little did not have too little. Everyone had gathered just as much as they needed.”  Exodus 16:17-18

Then Moses added an important rule:

^“Then Moses said to them, “No one is to keep any of it until morning.” Exodus 16:19

That was a real test of faith.  Don’t save any?  What if no more appeared?  What if they starved?  Did they trust God to deliver it every single day?

Some of them did not.

^“However, some of them paid no attention to Moses; they kept part of it until morning, but it was full of maggots and began to smell. So Moses was angry with them.”  Exodus 16:20

Gross!  But what an amazing reminder to obey God’s word.  I need that in my own life sometimes.  Walk away from God’s direction?  Fine, here are some maggots!  I’d get back in line really fast.

On the sixth day the Israelites were allowed to gather twice as much to honor the Sabbath.  And guess what, no maggots!  God is a God of miracles.

Even though Moses instructed the people not to try and gather manna on the seventh day, some went out anyway.  Of course they found none.  They finally understood the rules of manna gathering.

Exodus 16:31 gives us a description of manna.  “The people of Israel called the bread manna.  It was white like coriander seed and tasted like wafers made with honey.”

Wafers made with honey sound pretty delicious but again it would take faith to eat that for forty years.  Do I have that kind of faith?

According to Joshua 5:12, the manna stopped falling the day after the Israelites celebrated the Passover and ate the produce of the Promised Land of Canaan for the first time.   They didn’t need it anymore.

“The manna stopped the day after they ate this food from the land; there was no longer any manna for the Israelites, but that year they ate the produce of Canaan.”

“Manna from heaven” is a saying that is still used today.  It means any unexpected and much-needed help.  It can mean a financial windfall or a timely blessing that arrives precisely when things look bleak.  In other words, just like the original manna from heaven!

In Exodus 16:23 when Moses was instructing the Israelites to gather and prepare double the portion of manna, he mentioned baking or boiling it.  This gives us a hint on how it was prepared for consumption.

For generations manna has made people curious.  Yes, we have been told what it looks like and how it tastes, but we’d love to be able to taste it ourselves.  After doing some research, I have found some recipes for making your own “manna”.  Of course it won’t be exactly like the manna God provided.  We can only guess and try to mimic it.  But it’s a fun way to study Exodus.  I chose this old recipe to try.

At Home Manna Cakes

• 2 cups flour
• 3/4 teaspoon salt
• 3/4 teaspoon baking soda
• 1 Tablespoon cold diced butter
• 2/3 cup warm water
• 2 teaspoons honey

Preheat oven to 350 degrees. In a bowl, mix dry ingredients. Cut in shortening or butter. Stir in warm water and honey until mixed (I did all these steps in my mixer). Knead the dough together.  Roll into little balls, flatten them with your fingers, and bake on a greased parchment-lined cookie sheet for about 5-7 minutes.  You don’t need to brown them.

They’re bland.  They taste like those rolled tinned biscuits BEFORE you slather them with butter and honey or jam.  As I baked them I thought, “Hmmm, these would be good with sesame seeds added.”  Or, “What if I added jam in the center of each cake.”  And, full disclosure, I did add seeds and jam to some of them!

So I can’t be judgmental towards the Israelites anymore.  I couldn’t last even one day eating manna.  My situation is a bit different of course, but after this experiment I ended up with a new appreciation for the Exodus and more questions than I had when I started.

Were the people allowed to add spices and found food ingredients to the manna?

Was there a right and wrong way to prepare it?

Was the lesson only about the faith that God would provide for them and how did that affect their grumbling?

And how long would I have lasted before I started whining?

This has been a humbling lesson and one that I’m glad I participated in.  The next time you hear someone being judgmental about the Israelites, pull out your flour and make them some “manna”.

I think we can all agree that our faith can always use a little refreshing.

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]]> https://www.allmomdoes.com/blog/could-you-eat-manna-for-forty-years-a-lesson-in-faith-gratitude-and-gods-provision/feed/ 0 https://www.allmomdoes.com/blog/god-fasting-and-the-things-wed-rather-not-talk-about/ https://www.allmomdoes.com/blog/god-fasting-and-the-things-wed-rather-not-talk-about/#respond Thu, 20 Aug 2026 17:00:22 +0000 Joanna Gott 2026-08-20T17:11:24+00:00 https://d955.cms.socastsrm.com/?p=60960 “You’re due for a colonoscopy” stop sounding like something that happens to other people and start sounding like something that is, unfortunately, happening to you.

For those of us 45 and older, we know the dreaded appointment is coming. We may not know exactly when, but eventually the reminder appears, the doctor mentions it, and suddenly you find yourself thinking, Maybe I can just skip this one?

I’ll admit it: I put mine off for a couple of years.

But becoming a parent has a funny way of changing your perspective on things. I know my health needs to be a priority—not because I particularly enjoy doctors, needles, tests, or anything involving the phrase “medical prep,” but because I want to be here. I want to be here for the big things and the little things. I want to see my daughter grow up. I want to be around for graduations, birthdays, vacations, arguments over whose turn it is to do the dishes, and all the ordinary Tuesdays in between.

So I made the appointment.

And then I slowly began counting down the days.

Now, let me clarify something: I wasn’t particularly afraid of the actual procedure. In fact, being put to sleep for a little while and having a legitimate medical excuse to rest for the remainder of the day sounded almost luxurious.

No, my dread was reserved for one thing.

The prep.

Specifically, the fasting.

I had heard the horror stories about the prep drink, of course. Friends had warned me. The internet had warned me. Basically, everyone who had ever survived this experience seemed determined to make sure I knew exactly what I was in for.

And yes.

The prep drink was another level of HORROR.

But even before I got to that part, I knew the fasting was going to be difficult for me.

I have a complicated relationship with food, which means I have learned to be careful about restriction. Even when I fast for church, I typically choose something like social media or caffeine rather than food. So as my appointment got closer, I realized I wasn’t simply dreading being hungry for a day.

I was already trying to figure out how I would control it.

What would I eat before? How would I handle the hunger? How would I distract myself? How long until I could eat again?

I became fixated on it.

And, honestly, it was a little ironic. I was worried about losing control over food while simultaneously trying to control every possible detail of the experience.

So when the day finally came, I started it differently.

I prayed.

I asked God to remove my need to control food. I asked Him to use this strange, uncomfortable, very unglamorous day to expose the deeper lies I had believed about it. I asked Him to help me remember that He is the One who provides—not just physical food, but the food that actually gives life.

Jesus said, “I am the bread of life; whoever comes to me will never go hungry.” — John 6:35

So every time my stomach growled, I prayed.

God, fill me with Your Word.

God, help me trust You.

God, remind me that I am okay.

God, help me surrender this.

Did the day crawl by?

Yes.

Did I find myself turning to other distractions and completely forgetting to pray, only to remember twenty minutes later?

Absolutely.

Was the prep drink a nightmare?

One hundred percent.

There is no spiritual metaphor profound enough to make that drink taste good.

And somewhere around the middle of the day, I had another important realization:

I could NEVER compete on Survivor.

Never.

I don’t care how much money they offer. I don’t care how beautiful the island is. I don’t care how many alliances I can form.

Put me on a deserted island without food and I will choose to leave the island after one day.

But somewhere between the hunger, the distractions, the prayers, the prep drink, and the dramatic countdown to when I could finally eat again, something shifted.

I realized that God wasn’t asking me to conquer some enormous spiritual mountain that day. He was simply inviting me to let Him into something ordinary and uncomfortable.

Sometimes we imagine experiencing God in the big moments—the burning bush, the parted sea, the impossible miracle. And certainly, He is there in those moments.

But He is also there when we’re sitting on the couch hungry.

He’s there when we’re anxious about something that feels silly to everyone else but feels very real to us.

He’s there when we’re struggling to surrender something we’ve been trying to control for years.

He’s there in the ordinary.

And maybe that’s one of the most beautiful things about God: He doesn’t need our circumstances to be dramatic before He wants to be involved.

“The Lord is near to all who call on him.” — Psalm 145:18

He already knows every detail. He knows what we’re worried about before we say it. He knows the places where we struggle to trust Him. He knows the things we try to control.

But He still invites us to actively include Him.

Even in the uncomfortable things.

Especially there.

So yes, I survived the fasting. I survived the prep. I survived the drink that I hope never to encounter again (at least not for another 10 years). And I came away with a renewed appreciation for both food and modern medicine.

But more importantly, I walked away reminded that hard things don’t always require a grand miracle.

Sometimes God gets us through them one hour, one prayer, one growling stomach at a time.

I started that day thinking I needed to figure out how I was going to get myself through it. I ended it realizing that maybe I didn’t need to figure it all out. Maybe I just needed to let God be with me in it.

Because He doesn’t only meet us in the moments that make great stories. He meets us on the couch, in the waiting, in the discomfort, and in the places where we’re learning to let go.

And He wants to be invited in.

Have you read Dave Barry’s “Colonoscopy Journal”? It is absolutely hilarious! Read it HERE.

About the Writer: Dave Barry is a retired Pulitzer Prize-winning humor columnist from the Miami Herald.

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The tradition of giving apples to teachers started in 18th-century Europe and 19th-century America as a form of payment. Farming families used crops like apples to feed underpaid teachers. Over time, this evolved into a simple token of appreciation at the start of the school year.

Apples have thus become a part of back-to-school traditions.

Recently, some of my grandkids came over and we had an apple day.

Here’s what we made:

COLLAGE APPLES

Ann Kirsten

You’ll need: paper, a glue stick, scissors and old magazines.

Draw an apple shape onto a piece of paper.  Find red pictures in a magazine and cut out small pieces until you have enough to cover your apple shape.  Glue them onto the paper and trim the edges.  Do the same with green images for a leaf.  Place your apple into a thrifted frame.

APPLE WREATH

Ann Kirsten

You’ll need: white card stock, paint, brushes, an apple, scissors, glue dots, and a wire wreath form.

Cut an apple in half vertically.  Place the cut side onto a paper towel while you gather the rest of the supplies.  I used red, yellow, and green paint.  Brush paint onto the apple.  You can use pure colors or mix them together a bit.  Then press the apple down onto the card stock.  If your print looks a bit wonky, don’t worry.  That’s part of printing.  Let your images dry and paint on a brown stem and some black seeds.  You can use paint pens for this part if you have them.  Cut all your apples out (leaving a bit of white around the edges).  I used glue dots to stick the apples onto the wreath form.  A hot glue gun would also probably work.  Once you’ve covered the wreath, cut green leaves and glue them in any empty spaces.  My wreath makes me smile every time I pass the door.

APPLE “COOKIES”

Ann Kirsten

For snack time we made apple “cookies”.  We sliced apples horizontally and cored them.  Then we spread on natural peanut butter and sprinkled chocolate chips and raspberries on top.  You could use raisins, nuts, or even real sprinkles on top.  They were a healthy and yummy snack and I didn’t feel bad for eating three of them!

TEACHER GIFT

Ann Kirsten

This is an easy way to bless a teacher on the first day of school.  Simply buy nail polish in any apple color and add a cut-out leaf.  Easy-peasy.

APPLE GIFT

Ann Kirsten

Improve on the apple for the teacher by bagging up an apple and caramel dip.  Tie the top with a ribbon.

APPLE CUPCAKES

Ann Kirsten

Make or buy cupcakes and frost them in apple colors.  A pretzel stem and a gummi leaf (cut from a larger gummi) completes the cupcake.

APPLE PARTY

Perhaps you’ll want to gather your kids and their friends for an end of summer party.  These plates from Amazon would be perfect!

Amazon.com: 50PCS Red Apple Party Paper Plates Decorations Back to School Plates First Day of School Party Supplies Schools Disposable Tableware for 50 Guests Teacher Appreciation Kindergarten Preschool 6.6X7.4 : Health & Household

FUZZY APPLE

This apple would be a wonderful teacher gift or an end of summer gift for your kids.

Amazon.com: Apricot Lamb Toys Plush Food Plushies Red Apple Stuffed Fruit Soft 5” : Toys & Games

Need more apple ideas?  We’ve got plenty for you!

Here are the directions for crafty cardstock apples plus the origins of some of our favorite folk sayings, straight from the Bible.

• Apple Craft and Bible Truths: A Sweet September Activity | AllMomDoes

And here we’ve gathered a lot of apple activities from different sites:

• Educational Apple Activities for Your Preschooler, Homeschooler, or Just for Fun | AllMomDoes

Maybe you’d like to tie some cookies in with your apple fun.  Here is a recipe for caramel apple cookies (they’re yummy):

Ann Kirsten

• September Cookie of the Month: Caramel Apple Cookies | AllMomDoes

However you choose to celebrate the new school year, may this year be a very special one for you and your kids.

“Keep my commandments and live; keep my teaching as the apple of your eye;”  Proverbs 7:2

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August is the perfect time of year for a fun, beach-themed craft! And who doesn’t love an adorable little octopus? I saw this online last summer and knew my kids would love it. With googly eyes and sweet hand-print cutouts, it’s a cute and easy way to celebrate the end of the summer season.

Here’s what you’ll need:

Maria Magee

• Assorted colors of cardstock paper (construction paper will work but it’s just not as sturdy)
• Glue
• Scissors
• Markers
• Googly eyes (or draw your own)

Getting Started:

Either free-hand or tracing a small bowl, make your octopus head. Next, trace your kid’s hands, leaving out the thumb. Cut them all out and arrange them.

Maria Magee

Next, glue the legs behind the head so that the pinky fingers are on the outside.

Maria Magee

Draw (or have your kids draw) the mouth, little dots on the head, cheeks, and little tentacles.

Maria Magee

Place the googly eyes.

Maria Magee

For extra detail, you can glue your octopus onto another sheet of paper so your kids can decorate an under-the-sea scene for the octopus. Or, use beach-themed stickers if you have them!

Enjoy these last weeks of summer as you savor the sunny days, beach time, and picnics. Hopefully these little googly-eyed guys brighten up your day and make craft time a splash for your kids!

Download our free printables by clicking the image(s) below!

Bookmarks:

Coloring Pages:

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This content is syndicated from allmomdoes: https://purposely.com/podcasts/gospel-tech/celebrating-10-years-of-god-providing/ Find more content at Gospel Tech Archives - Purposely Podcasts and subscribe to the allmomdoes Podcast on Apple Podcasts, Google Podcasts, Stitcher, Spotify, and more!

As Christian parents, we can’t remove every source of anxiety from our children’s lives. But we can help them build something stronger than fear: a deep trust in God that steadies them when life feels uncertain.

Start by Bringing Peace Into Your Own Home

Kupicoo

Kids are incredibly observant. They often take their emotional cues from the adults around them. If our homes are constantly rushed, stressed, and overwhelmed, our children will feel it.

That doesn’t mean we have to be perfect. It simply means creating spaces where peace is practiced. Maybe that’s praying together before school, sharing highs and lows around the dinner table, or simply turning off the noise for a few minutes each day.

Peace isn’t found in a perfect schedule. It’s found in the presence of God.

Teach Them That Feelings Aren’t Failures

Igor Suka

Sometimes well-meaning parents accidentally send the message that fear is something to be ashamed of.

But throughout Scripture, we see people who were afraid. David was afraid. Esther was afraid. The disciples were afraid. Feeling anxious doesn’t mean your child lacks faith. It means they’re human.

Instead of saying, “Don’t worry,” try saying:

• “Tell me what’s making you feel nervous.”
• “Let’s pray about it together.”
• “God is with you, even in this.”

When children learn that their feelings can be brought to God rather than hidden from Him, they begin developing healthy faith instead of performative faith.

Help Them Focus on What Is True

Daisy-Daisy

Anxiety often grows when our minds become consumed with “what if.”

What if I fail? What if nobody likes me? What if something bad happens?

God gently redirects us toward truth instead of fear.

When your child is struggling, help them ask:

• What do I know is true right now?
• What has God done for me before?
• What does God say about me?

Over time, these small conversations help train their minds to look for truth instead of assuming the worst.

Make Prayer a First Response, Not a Last Resort

Wierzchu

Many of us learned to pray after we had exhausted every other option.

What if we taught our children something different?

When a friendship problem arises, pray. When they have a test, pray. When they’re worried about a game, pray. When they don’t know what to do, pray.

Prayer doesn’t remove problems from our kids’ lives. What it does do though is turn their focus heavenward and remind them that they don’t face their problems alone.

Limit the Noise

Not every child needs to know every headline, controversy, or crisis happening in the world.

While it’s important to stay informed, constant exposure to distressing news and social media can leave children feeling powerless and afraid.

As parents, we can help filter what enters our homes and our children’s hearts. More importantly, we can fill those spaces with things that build faith, joy, gratitude, and hope.

There are some great podcasts that help support you and are also a positive influence on your kiddos. Try God on the Go and That’s a Doozy!

If you’re wrestling with the amount of screen time and gaming that’s happening in your home, we highly recommend Gospel Tech. Nathan Sutherland’s goal is to equip parents with the tools, resources, and confidence needed to raise kids who love God and use tech.

Remind Them Who Holds the Future

One of the greatest gifts we can give our children is the reminder that God is still God.

The future may seem uncertain to us, but it isn’t uncertain to Him.

When kids know their security comes from God’s unchanging character rather than changing circumstances, they develop a foundation that can withstand life’s storms.

If you’re worried about your child’s anxiety, take heart. You don’t have to have all the answers. Life can be hard and our job is to help equip them to face challenges while pointing them toward the One who walks with them through every fear.

Little by little, prayer by prayer, conversation by conversation, you’re helping your child discover that peace isn’t the absence of problems. It’s the presence of God in the middle of them.

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Right now, as I type this, I have two friends I’m thinking of who I want to tangibly show up for this week.

Because lets face it, a “let me know if you need anything” text may be well intentioned, but it actually ends up putting all the work on them to figure out what they need and ask for it, which most people won’t do.

Specific offers are much easier to say yes to. I have been talking about this on air and compiling a creative list (feel free to add to it!) to spur us on to loving our neighbor (and sister, and friend, and coworker) well!

My friend Angie is excellent at this… its her Superpower. She can craft the most thoughtful, witty and practical text of love and tangible support on the planet, so I’m going to use her style as an example!

Sample text ideas:

Get specific. Offer something that already works with your schedule.

• “I’m doing a Target run Thursday. Text me your kids back to school list – or better yet, I can take them with me!”
• “I’m coming by Saturday to take your trash cans out and grab your mail. Don’t need to talk, I’ll just do it.”
• “I need to get my steps in today! Want me to walk the dog this week? I can do 7am or 6pm, whichever’s easier.”

Give a narrow window instead of open-ended time

• “I have Tuesday 2-4pm totally free. Want me to sit with you, drive you somewhere, or just be on standby?”
• “I’m free all day Sunday. Can I take a shift — kids, laundry, dishes, whatever’s piling up?”

Offer something logistical people forget to ask for

• “Do you want me to handle telling people, so you’re not repeating the story over and over?”
• “Want me to sit in on the follow-up appointment and take notes? Extra ears are useful for that stuff.”
• “I can pick up your prescriptions today… just tell me the pharmacy.”

For grief specifically, offer presence without pressure

• “I’m not going to ask how you’re doing. I’m just going to come sit with you Wednesday if that’s okay — no talking required.”
• “I’ll come mow the lawn / walk the dog / do a grocery run this week, no need to reply, I’ll just show up unless you tell me not to.”
• “Thinking about you today. I’m around all evening if you want company or silence.”

When they’re overwhelmed and can’t even triage

• “Text me one thing that’s stressing you out right now, even something small — I’ll take it off your plate.”
• “I know decision-making feels impossible right now. I’m going to pick a day to come clean/organize/whatever — Thursday work?”

The common thread: propose something concrete, give them an easy yes/no or multiple choice, and make it low-effort for them to accept — not “what do you need,” which is its own homework assignment.

By wisdom a house is built, and by understanding it is established; And by knowledge the rooms are filled with all the precious and pleasant riches. -Proverbs 24:3-4

Ah, August. All the fall things are starting to make their appearance even though we aren’t quite there yet, summer clearance sales are in full swing, and back-to-school prep has likely begun to flash through your mind! Whether you’re dreading the summer season coming to an end or happily anticipating your family’s new autumn routine, September will be here before we know it. Moms have an extra full plate this time of year as we prepare for the kids moving up a grade, new schools, new sports schedules, and all the fall activities that come cascading down on us like leaves from the trees in October!

If we aren’t careful, the pressure can add up and moms can quickly be left feeling discouraged, drained, and maybe even a little bitter as we try to keep everything running. It’s hard to pour out all the nurturing, love, and support our families need when we are depleted and knocked down by the day-to-day responsibilities.

So then we pursue the things which make for peace and the building up of one another. -Romans 14:19

This year, I’ve got one child in high school, one in junior high, one in elementary school, and one doing pre-k at home with me. It’s a lot to manage, but there are some things I’ve learned over the years that hands-down help our school days run much more smoothly. That doesn’t mean we don’t have bad days like everyone else, but it does mean that when I feel less scattered, our whole household does, too.

So, what are some of the ways we can lighten the load even when we can’t really lessen our responsibilities?

It starts with something we’re all familiar with, particularly at Christmastime. We talk about preparing Him room in December, and hopefully that’s something we’re all striving to do throughout the year, but what if we intentionally applied that as moms to the start of the school year, too? Think about what life is like for your family once September rolls around, what your schedule is like, your day-to-day routine, and when do you have a moment to yourself to connect with God?

I know it can feel daunting in this very busy, hands-on season of motherhood to schedule time for your Bible or even a short devotional, when from sunup to sundown you’re running from place to place, serving the meals, packing the lunches, finding the jackets and the missing shoes. The great news is, to prepare Him room, we don’t have to have a formal quiet time. Often, the times I talk to Jesus the most are in the middle of the busyness… while praise music plays in the car, while I’m doing the dishes, watering the garden, or folding the laundry. Maybe for you that’s the drive to work or while you’re nursing the baby at 3am.

Staticnak1983

I love to wake up early and take in a daily devotional or to meditate on a certain verse when I go to bed at night, but it doesn’t always happen that way. So, as you think forward to this school year, start with finding a few practical, realistic ways that you’ll be able to connect with Jesus each day. He is there for us while we are there for everyone else. If you can, write down a few of your favorite verses and inspirational quotes so you can draw from them throughout your week and be encouraged!

My children have made it nearly impossible for me to sleep past 5:30am for the last fifteen years. I’m an early riser, too, but it’s different when everyone needs you before your eyes are even open. When my fourth son was around 18 months old, I couldn’t take the morning chaos anymore! Trying to get myself ready while his brothers kept an eye on him became unrealistic. Since my husband leaves for work so early, it was up to me to find a way for us to function better each morning.

There was too much fighting, too much discussion, and too much stress. Being in such a rush is not a fun way to start the day and I’m sure almost every mom out there can relate! Even though my youngest was still waking throughout the night and every minute of sleep was precious to me, I decided to start setting an alarm for 5am. It was the best chance I had to shower, pour a cup of coffee, and maybe even read the bible before everyone else woke up. Although it doesn’t always work out perfectly, it has been life changing! Having that moment to wrap my head around our day and to be ready when everyone comes pouring out of their rooms at the crack of dawn has become a huge improvement to my routine and I wish I had done it a long time ago. Even little changes can make a big difference in how we approach the day ahead!

Aside from prioritizing time with Jesus and getting a head start on our days this fall, here are some other helpful habits I’ve acquired over the years that truly help our days run more smoothly:

Survival Guide:

Meal Prep!

Hopefully that idea doesn’t fill you with panic, but if it does, I would say to start small. If you’re not used to meal planning, start with one or two REALISTIC recipes to plan throughout the week. Even if it’s grilled cheese and some fruit, knowing what dinner is going to be on a crazy weekday can relieve a lot of pressure for moms. Each Sunday, I make sure I have a general idea of at least 3-4 meals that will fit with our schedule that week. I get a grocery list going with all the ingredients I’ll need and make a menu list on the fridge to stay organized. My kids love checking it to see what’s for dinner!

Have your family on the same page when it comes to screen-time!

Deciding on what you want these boundaries to look like for your family before the rush of the school year will be a huge relief and can save you from lots of nagging and debating if you have school-aged children. Maybe think back to last year and what went well and what didn’t when it came to your family’s screen-time habits. For us, having no video games on weeknights helps things go more smoothly. We also leave all phones, remotes, controllers, and school laptops in the open or put them away in our room when they’re not being used. Your kids might not be a big fan of that one, especially teens, but having those boundaries is so important in a day and age when the world has so much access to them.

Pick out your clothes the night before.

A lot of moms have their kids do this but it’s just as helpful for moms! I might stay at home with my kids and mostly wear jeans and t-shirts, but having my clothes ready to go when I jump up to shower is a lot better than staring groggily into my closet trying to remember what the weather was supposed to be that day. It feels so refreshing to start the day ready-to-go as opposed to being stuck in my pajamas until everyone else is ready.

Eat breakfast!

I’ve met so many moms who say they don’t eat breakfast. I get it, you might not feel very hungry that early in the morning. Just like we know how important it is for our kids to have fuel for the day, we need it too! It doesn’t have to be a lot, but I guarantee that you will feel better if you have something in your stomach as you hit the ground running. Some Greek yogurt with granola and fruit or just some oatmeal to go with your coffee are great places to start!

Get to bed at a decent time!

I know, this one is tough. It might mean staying up after the kids go to bed to read or watch your favorite shows on weeknights isn’t a realistic option for the season you’re in. Think about how many hours of sleep you’re really getting each night and if there’s a way to make some changes this fall so you can feel healthier and happier. That’s not always an option, especially if you have older kids in weeknight sports, but even if you can get in bed earlier a few nights a week it will make a world of difference. Set a small goal and see how you feel!

When life gets busy this fall, as it inevitably will, just remember that God is our safe place to land. We lean on him just as our kids and families lean on us. Be that safe place to land for your kids as they come home exhausted from having taken in so much from their surroundings that day. They sat still, stayed quiet in class when they were supposed to, dealt with other kids sometimes not respecting boundaries, a difficult teacher, or a stressful assignment. We have long days as moms, yes. But, so do they! They need to be able to trust that we will be able to comfort them, encourage them, and welcome them home. Making small changes to our routines so we have more to give is a great place to start!

Blessed be the God and Father of our Lord Jesus Christ, the Father of mercies and God of all comfort, who comforts us in all our affliction so that we will be able to comfort those who are in any affliction with the comfort with which we ourselves are comforted by God. –2 Corinthians 1:3-4

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Summer is coming to a close, but there is still enough time to do some of those things that make summer memorable to a kid.  You know, making camp crafts, spending time outside, etc.  Summer is such a great time to put screens away and bask in God’s creation.

Psalm 96:11-12 – “Let the heavens rejoice, let the earth be glad; let the sea resound, and all that is in it. Let the fields be jubilant, and everything in them; let all the trees of the forest sing for joy.”

On a recent day, two of my grandkids came over and we decided to engage in some easy and fun summer crafts.  Here’s what we did:

NATURE HUNT

You’ll need: an empty egg carton, pens and paper, and a list (if desired).

First, my grandson made a Nature Hunt sign and drew some pictures of nature.  Cut the paper to the size of the top of an egg carton before you start drawing.

Ann Kirsten

Then, you can either make a list of what the kids need to find or you can just let them grab whatever catches their fancy.  List items might include: a leaf, some bark or wood, a rock, a feather, grass, flowers, dirt, seed pods, and a weed.  You can easily adjust your list according to what you have in your yard.

Ann Kirsten

Then, just send your kids out with their egg cartons and see what they find!  Of course take pictures and send them to grandma and grandpa.

Psalm 19:1 – “The heavens declare the glory of God; the skies proclaim the work of his hands.“

COLOR HUNT

You’ll need: an empty egg carton, paint and brushes.

Paint the cups of the egg carton in different colors.  We used these colors:

Ann Kirsten

Send the kids out to find things that match the colors.  They can ask known neighbors for help.  Easy and fun.

Ann Kirsten

Psalm 8:3-4 – “When I consider your heavens, the work of your fingers, the moon and the stars, which you have set in place, what is mankind that you are mindful of them?”

NATURE WEAVING

You’ll need: four sticks for each loom, string or twine or yarn, a glue gun is helpful, and miscellaneous plants and flowers.

I found it easier to glue the sticks together in a square or rectangular shape before I tied the corners with twine.

Ann Kirsten

Then create the “warp” (the strings that go up and down).  You can use my picture for an idea of how to do it or just wrap it your own way.

Ann Kirsten

Then simply go outside and find things to weave in and out of your warp.  Don’t overthink this step, just use whatever catches your fancy.  Cut twigs as long as you can but if they don’t reach all the way across just tuck the end in back and start where you left off.

We wove greenery in first.

Ann Kirsten

We added flowers last because their stems don’t have to be so long.  You can just take a few weaves to add them in.

Tie a string at the top and you have a nature wall or door hanging!

Psalm 139:13-16 – “For you created my inmost being; you knit me together in my mother’s womb… my frame was not hidden from you when I was made in the secret place, when I was woven together in the depths of the earth.” 

Looking for more ideas?

Emma Long made this lovely wall hanging.  Even with the flowers drying, it still looks so pretty.

Picture courtesy of Emma Long

Last year, My grands and I made “wind sticks”.  They still hold a place of honor in a pitcher on top of my bookcase.
Find out how here: Wind Sticks & Whispers of God

Ann Kirsten

Or this is the perfect time to make Mosquito Repellant Sticks.
Find out how here: Sage Sticks: An All-Natural DIY Mosquito Repellent

Ann Kirsten

To finish your craft day, why not have lunch outside on a blanket?  It can be as easy as take-out or you could create your favorite picnic items.

Skynesher

As you head outside to take in God’s creation, remember:

Psalm 24:1 – “The earth is the Lord’s, and everything in it, the world, and all who live in it.”

Happy last days of summer!

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It wasn’t a season of shopping. It wasn’t multiple Target runs, Amazon deliveries arriving every few days, or endless “must-have” lists filling my inbox. It was one big outing. We would get everything we needed for the school year in one trip: clothes, shoes, school supplies, a backpack, and a lunchbox. I remember getting two new pairs of shoes, a new winter coat, one pair of jeans, a handful of basic shirts, and a few other essentials. That was it. Somehow, those things carried us through the entire school year.

We mixed and matched what we had, rewore our favorite outfits, and never thought much about whether we had enough. Looking back, I don’t remember wishing I had more clothes. I remember being excited to see my friends, meet my teacher, and find out what adventures the new school year would bring.

Now that I’m a parent, back-to-school shopping feels a little different.

The moment August arrives, every store, email, and social media post seems to tell us that our kids need an entirely new wardrobe before they even step foot into the classroom. Add in influencer shopping hauls, endless supply lists, and the pressure to buy everything while it’s on sale, and what should feel like an exciting milestone can quickly become another overwhelming item on the parenting to-do list.

I love being organized, so my instinct is to want to have everything checked off before that first day of school. But over these past couple of years I’ve realized that being prepared doesn’t necessarily mean buying everything at once. In fact, slowing down has actually made the process less stressful. Instead of trying to create the perfect “back-to-school haul,” I’ve found that focusing on what my daughter truly needs—and making the shopping experience something we enjoy together—has made all the difference.

Here are a few things that have helped make back-to-school shopping feel a little lighter for our family.

1. Start by trying on everything they already own.

Before buying a single thing, pull every pair of pants, every sweatshirt, every jacket, and every pair of shoes out of the closet.

Yes, it sounds like a lot of work.

But you’d be surprised how many clothes still fit…and how many suddenly don’t.

Kids have a magical ability to grow overnight. One day their shoes fit perfectly, and the next morning it looks like they’re trying to squeeze into toddler sizes.

Instead of making it a chore, make it fun.

Turn on music and host a fashion show. See how quickly they can change outfits. Let younger kids strike silly runway poses after every outfit. Time them to see if they can beat their “quick change” record.

You’ll quickly create three piles:

• Fits
• Doesn’t fit.
• Maybe…but probably not for much longer.

Now you’re shopping from what they actually need instead of guessing.

2. Don’t feel like you have to buy everything in August.

This one has been freeing for me.

Every August, stores are filled with sweaters, boots, jackets, and long sleeve shirts.

Meanwhile…

It’s still 90 degrees outside.

The first few weeks of school often feel more like summer than fall, especially here in the Pacific Northwest. Our kids are still wearing shorts, T-shirts, and sandals while pumpkin displays are somehow already everywhere.

So why rush to buy winter clothes that won’t be worn for another two months?

By waiting, you’ll often find better selections later in the season, and you’ll have a much better idea of what your child actually needs after those first weeks of school.

3. Buy what they need now—and wait on the rest.

There are a few things that really are essential.

A backpack.

A lunchbox.

The classroom supplies.

Maybe a new pair of shoes because, once again, somehow their feet grew while they were sleeping.

Start there.

Once school begins, you’ll quickly discover what gaps actually exist.

Maybe your child suddenly needs another pair of athletic pants because of PE.

Maybe they realize everyone wears hoodies at recess.

Maybe they don’t actually need half the things you thought they would.

Waiting takes away so much of the guesswork.

Instead of buying “just in case,” you’re buying based on real needs.

And that usually means buying less.

4. Don’t overlook thrift stores, resale sites, and garage sales.

One of the wonderful things about kids growing so quickly is that they don’t usually wear clothes long enough to wear them out.

Which means there are some amazing secondhand finds out there.

I’ve found fantastic jackets, nearly brand-new shoes, and clothes that still had plenty of life left in them—all for a fraction of retail prices.

Late summer garage sales can be especially great because families are cleaning out closets before school starts.

Resale sites and local marketplace groups can also be gold mines for backpacks, coats, sports gear, and name-brand clothes that were barely worn before another growth spurt happened.

Kids don’t care nearly as much as we think they do.

They’re mostly excited about seeing friends again and finding their classroom.

5. Don’t let shopping hauls define what “prepared” looks like.

This one might be the hardest.

Open social media in August and you’ll probably see family after family sharing massive shopping hauls.

New outfits.

Matching shoes.

Perfectly coordinated accessories.

Closets full of brand-new clothes.

It’s fun to watch. But it can quietly convince us that our kids need an entirely new wardrobe every school year.

So this year, I’m giving myself permission to slow down. We’ll still make our shopping trip special. We’ll probably stop for a treat, laugh our way through fitting rooms, and marvel at how my daughter somehow managed to grow another shoe size over the summer. But more than anything, I want our shopping trip to build excitement for everything that’s ahead.

I want it to be a chance for us to dream about the new school year together—to talk about the friends she’ll see again, the teacher she’ll get to know, the things she’ll learn, and all the little adventures waiting for her over the coming months. Those conversations matter so much more than whether we found the perfect outfit.

Years from now, I don’t think either of us will remember exactly what ended up in the shopping bags. But I hope she’ll remember how exciting it felt to prepare for a brand-new school year together and how, long before she ever walked through those school doors, we were already celebrating all the possibilities waiting on the other side.

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> Trigger Warning: It’s Not Too Early For Christmas Displays!

I made some good points in it and I felt confident in my viewpoint.

Well, I am starting to change my mind or at least look at things from the other side.  Oh, my heart still quickens with joy when I see Christmas items start popping up and I don’t think I’ll ever change in that regard.  Christmas fills my heart with joy and I love any reminder of it.

But I’ve noticed a trend lately to speed life up and it’s a bit scary.

Recently, I was scrolling through Instagram and there were suddenly lots of Fall and Halloween pictures.  It’s summer!  Why would I be interested in pumpkins and acorns and other Autumn things?  Yet my feed was loaded with homes already decorated in fall splendor.

The influencers have even coined a name for this phenomenon: Augtober!  Apparently, it officially started on August 1^st and it means moving on to fall way too early!

I love Fall, don’t get me wrong.  I love the cooler weather, the colors, and the coziness of it all.  But skipping through the beautiful things of summer to get there faster just seems ridiculous.  By the time Autumn actually arrives the things that make it special will seem outdated and stale.

I have accepted that Summer is a time of setting up back-to-school displays too early (that used to drive my son crazy).  But it should also be a time of pool floaties and squirt gun displays, not pumpkins and fuzzy throws.

I worked retail for many years so I am not ignorant of the need to set things up early.  I also understand that the stores themselves did not make the decision to cram the next holiday’s merchandise out before the last holiday is even over (so don’t yell at the poor associates).  But it seems like it’s gotten completely out of control and things are being thrown at us faster and faster.

I saw a meme from Scott D. Clary that said:

That hit home with me.  Especially in the USA we have lost the importance of rest and just stopping for a while.

So, is this way of life new?

There is a word in the Bible that shows us it is not;

Selah.

This Hebrew word is meant as an intentional pause in the reading.  Even in our Bible reading we tend to rush from one verse to the next.  Selah is a reminder to pause, pause to think, to let the truth wash over us, to pray, to praise, to learn.

One definition of Selah is: “An invitation to reflect.”  Isn’t that lovely?  An invitation to reflect.  We all need that in our lives.  Instead of rushing from one thing to another, or one season to another, what if we accepted an invitation to pause and reflect.  Think of the beautiful things we could learn and feel.  Think of the peace that would wash over us.

Wouldn’t it be wonderful to have a Selah button in life?  When my granddaughter was little her thoughts zoomed through her head faster than she could process or articulate them.  She would say, “Pause!”  And then she would stop long enough to catch up with what she was thinking about.  I don’t know where she came up with that but it was a brilliant way for her to process all the information in her brain.

Selah is found 74 times in the Bible (mostly in Psalms).  Psalms contains so much wisdom and it is a wonderful reminder to stop and let the words sink in.  It turns out that even our ancestors needed that reminder.

m-gucci

Knowing what Selah means will cause me to read scripture in a new way.  But where else can I implement it in life?  God has blessed me in so many ways.  Do I ever pause long enough to really soak that in or do I simply rush off to the next thing?  Do I really need to decorate my house for Fall before the summer is over?  Or can I just be content with sitting in the “now”?

Social media pushes us to zoom off to the next thing, the next holiday, the newest fashion item, or the latest food craze.  People make money by creating a frenzy of “I need” or “I want”.  But now I have a word when I feel frenzied.  Selah.  It will remind me to sit right where I am and be thankful.

There will be no Augtober for me.  I will relax and enjoy these last sleepy days of summer before I move on.

So the next time you are feeling guilty about what you’re NOT doing, remind yourself that it’s also important to pause and reflect.  After all, it’s written right in the Bible.  Seventy-four times.

“Be still and know that I am God.”  Psalm 46:10

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The bright blue skies of summer gave way to towering plumes of smoke that stretched across the horizon. Wildfires burned through thousands of acres surrounding our community, leaving thousands of families displaced and uncertain of what would come next. The smell of smoke lingered in the air, helicopters circled overhead, and emergency alerts buzzed across our phones. It was one of those moments where life suddenly feels a little more fragile than it did the day before.

Like many families, we found ourselves standing outside, looking toward the smoke. It’s strange how something can feel both far away and incredibly close at the same time. Our neighborhood was calm. Birds still chirped from the trees, sprinklers watered freshly cut grass, and a few kids rode bikes down the street as if nothing had changed. Yet just beyond the hills, families were packing up treasured belongings, saying goodbye to homes they weren’t sure they would see again.

Standing beside me was Penny.

She stared at the sky for a long moment before turning to me with the first of many questions.

“Mama, is the fire coming here?”

“What if it reaches our house?”

“What if people lose everything they own?”

“Would we have to leave?”

“And…what happens to all the animals?”

I smiled at that last question because, of course, Penny would be thinking about the animals. She has always had the kind of heart that worries about everyone else before herself.

As she waited for my answers, I realized I was carrying two different responsibilities. One was to tell her the truth. The other was to protect her heart. Those two things don’t always feel like they fit together.

I wanted to be honest without overwhelming her. I wanted her to understand what was happening without carrying fears that weren’t hers to hold. So instead of walking her through every possible scenario or explaining every alarming update I’d read that morning, I gently brought her back to what was true.

“Right now, we’re safe.”

“The firefighters are working so hard.”

“If anything changes, we’ll know what to do.”

“And no matter what happens, Mama will always take care of you.”

That last sentence wasn’t a promise that nothing bad would ever happen. It was a promise that she would never have to face it alone.

As parents, I think we spend much of our lives doing exactly that. We quietly carry information our children don’t need yet. We filter what they hear, not because we want to deceive them, but because we love them. We don’t tell them every frightening possibility before a doctor’s appointment. We don’t list every danger before a family road trip. We don’t explain every heartbreaking headline they are too young to process.

Instead, we help them focus on today.

Today we are together.

Today we are safe.

Today we have everything we need.

Tomorrow will come soon enough.

The older I get, the more I realize how often God parents me in exactly the same way.

There are so many questions I wish He would answer. I would love to know how every difficult season ends before it begins. I’d happily accept a five-year plan with color-coded tabs and a few reassuring footnotes. Instead, God usually gives me just enough light for the next step.

Not because He’s withholding good from me, but because He knows what my heart can carry.

As I looked at Penny that afternoon, I realized there were details I intentionally chose not to share. Not because they weren’t true, but because they weren’t helpful. They would have only invited fear into a heart that was already trying to make sense of something scary.

It made me wonder how many things God lovingly shields me from every single day.

How many disasters He prevents that I never hear about.

How many prayers He answers behind the scenes before I ever know to pray them.

How many details He keeps tucked safely in His hands because He knows I would spend all my energy worrying about tomorrow instead of living faithfully today.

Joanna Gott

Jesus’ words in Matthew 6 suddenly felt less like instruction and more like the gentle voice of a loving Father: “Therefore do not worry about tomorrow, for tomorrow will worry about itself. Each day has enough trouble of its own.”

When I read that verse before becoming a mom, I mostly heard it as a command.

Now I hear it as comfort.

It’s almost as if God is saying, You don’t have to carry tomorrow because I’m already there.

Peter echoes the same invitation when he writes, “Cast all your anxiety on him because he cares for you.” (1 Peter 5:7)

Not because He merely tolerates us.

Not because He’s checking a heavenly box.

Because He cares.

Because we are His children.

That afternoon, Penny eventually stopped asking questions. She wandered off to collect a handful of rocks, somehow deciding they were exactly what her stuffed animals needed. Children have a beautiful ability to return to joy once they know they’re safe. Meanwhile, I stood there thinking about evacuation maps, weather forecasts, and wind speeds.

Maybe that’s why Jesus tells us to have faith like a child.

Children trust the people who love them.

They don’t need every answer because they believe someone bigger is paying attention.

As I tucked Penny into bed that evening, the fires were still burning. The smoke hadn’t disappeared, and many families were still facing unimaginable loss. We prayed for the firefighters, for those who had been evacuated, and for rain. Then she hugged me, rolled over, and fell asleep within minutes.

I watched her for a little while before quietly leaving the room, and I couldn’t help but smile.

She slept peacefully because she trusted the One watching over her.

What a picture of the Gospel.

The truth is, none of us know what tomorrow holds. Fires come. Storms arrive. Diagnoses change everything. Plans unravel. We cannot promise our children—or ourselves—that life will always feel safe.

But we can point them to the One who never changes.

The God who watches over us never slumbers. The Father who holds tomorrow also holds us today. And just as I long for Penny to bring every fear to me instead of carrying it alone, our Heavenly Father invites us to place every worry into His hands.

Maybe that’s what courage looks like after all.

Not pretending the smoke isn’t there.

Not denying that hard things happen.

But choosing, one day at a time, to rest in the care of our Father, trusting that while we cannot see what tomorrow holds, the One who holds tomorrow has never once taken His eyes off His children.

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