Text PREPARE to 89419 (or 866.729.1065 if you are in Canada) and we will send you a daily text to remind you starting on 12/1!

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The first Thanksgiving celebration in the United States was a 1621 harvest gathering in Plymouth, Massachusetts.  It was shared by the English Pilgrims and the Wampanoag people.

The Mayflower arrived off the coast of Cape Cod in November of 1620.  It carried 102 Puritans who established Plymouth colony.  Half of the colonists died during that first harsh winter.

Squanto, a Patuxet man, later taught the survivors local farming, fishing, and hunting techniques.  In the autumn of 1621, a successful harvest was achieved.  Governor William Bradford called for a three-day celebration.  Chief Massasoit was invited along with ninety Wampanoag men.  They shared venison and local crops.

Later, Presidents George Washington, John Adams and James Madison issued occasional national days of thanksgiving in honor of military or constitutional milestones.

In 1863 Abraham Lincoln (during the Civil War) issued a national proclamation setting the last Thursday of November as a day of Thanksgiving, thus setting the holiday as we know it today.

Between 1939 to 1941 though, Franklin D. Roosevelt moved the holiday up one week to lengthen the Christmas shopping season during the Great Depression.  This caused a lot of confusion and some states celebrated the old date instead.  In 1941 congress passed a resolution officially designating the fourth Thursday of November as the permanent date for Thanksgiving and it has been that way ever since.

The first Thanksgiving meal hardly resembled what we think of as traditional Thanksgiving fare.  It consisted of waterfowl, venison, seafood, and corn porridge.

The blueprint for our “modern” meal was largely created in the 1800’s by Sarah Josepha Hale.  She was the editor of the influential magazine: Godey’s Lady’s Book.  She published countless articles detailing menu ideas.

Hale chose Turkey as a main dish because it was easily accessible, fed a large group, and was native to America.  Her chosen side dishes were savory stuffing, gravy, mashed potatoes, and roasted winter squash, much as we see the meal today.  As sugar became cheaper, cranberries were boiled down with sugar to add color to the meal.

In the 20^th century, the Thanksgiving meal changed even further when shelf-stable convenience items were introduced.

In 1941, Ocean Spray introduced jellied cranberry sauce in the now famous log-shape.

In 1955, Dorcas Reilly from the Campbell Soup Company invented the green bean casserole.  It was heavily marketed to homemakers and remains a standard for many families.

Early colonists did in fact eat stewed pumpkin, but the modern pie became standard in the 1920’s when Libby’s came out with canned pumpkin puree.

Today, many families continue to eat the traditional menu and turkey remains the most common centerpiece of the meal.  But our diverse cultural makeup means that dishes vary by region and heritage.  Often tamales, rice stuffing, collard greens and macaroni and cheese are served as well.

My Thanksgiving meal wouldn’t be complete without candied sweet potatoes with miniature marshmallows.  I’m pretty sure the Pilgrims didn’t serve that at the first feast!

Whatever your family eats, one thing hasn’t changed.  Thanksgiving provides us with a wonderful opportunity to thank God for our many blessings.

• “And whatever you do, in word or deed, do everything in the name of the Lord Jesus, giving thanks to God the Father through him.” Colossians 3:17 
•  “Rejoice always, pray continually, give thanks in all circumstances.” 1 Thessalonians 5:16–18.
• “As you therefore have received Christ Jesus the Lord, so walk in Him, rooted and built up in Him and established in the faith, as you have been taught, abounding in it with thanksgiving.”  Colossians 2:6-7

Here is my Aunt Ruth’s recipe for sweet potatoes.  I love them!

AUNT RUTH’S CANDIED SWEET POTATOES

• 4-5 sweet potatoes
• ¼ cup of milk or cream
• 1 jar apple jelly
• 1 bag miniature marshmallows

Heat oven to 375 (or heat broiler).  Peel and boil the sweet potatoes in a large pot of salted water until soft.  Drain.  Mash the potatoes with milk until creamy.  Spread them in a greased 9 x 13” pan.  With two spoons, dollop the jar of apple jelly evenly over the top of the potatoes.  Sprinkle an even layer of marshmallows over the top.  Bake or broil until the tops of the marshmallows are toasted.  Don’t burn them!

The melding of flavors is delicious!  You can use yams if you prefer and if you can’t find apple jelly, I’ve used apricot marmalade instead and it was yummy.

 TURKEY ROLLS

Ann Kirsten

I remember being a kid and having to wait all day for the big meal was torture.  Why not start the celebration with breakfast?  The kids can help you make these easy turkey rolls.

Ingredients:

• 1 tube of Grands cinnamon rolls
• 1 pound of bacon
• Candy eyes
• Candy corn

Open the tube of cinnamon rolls.  Jump out of your skin (I do every time).  Place the rolls on a parchment lined baking sheet.  Bake the cinnamon rolls as directed on the package.  Cool a bit and then frost with the included frosting.

Meanwhile, have Dad fry up the bacon.  Why not cook it all?  It will surely get eaten.  Break the bacon into halves or thirds (depending on size) and tuck the bacon into the back of the baked rolls.  I found it helpful to make a slit with a sharp knife in the rolls first.

Decorate the front of the rolls with the candies.  The frosting will make them stick.

Take pictures of the funny turkeys.  Serve with eggs if desired.

TURKEY CHARCUTERIE

Ann Kirsten

• Clear plastic cups
• Salami, cheese, fruit, pickles, etc.
• Round crackers
• Candy eyes

Put cubed cheese or apples in the bottom of a cup.  Slice pickles and apples for the tail.  Curl the salami to look more like feathers.  You can use toothpicks to stack olives.  Using cream cheese, glue the eyes and a cheese beak onto a round cracker.  Set it on top for the turkey head.

This is the perfect snack for Christmas movie watching while you wait for the turkey to roast.

“Now therefore, our God, we thank You and praise Your glorious name.” 1 Chronicles 29:13

Yes, we do!

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Penny and I are fortunate to have a few oak trees in our neighborhood, and we’ve taken to collecting the fallen acorns during our walks. What started as picking up a few here and there quickly turned into quite the collection. (Apparently, it’s hard to walk past a perfectly good acorn when you have a child who loves collecting nature’s treasures!)

After accumulating a rather impressive stash, I decided it was time to find a way to incorporate some of our little treasures into a craft. That’s when I stumbled across the idea of making acorn people, and I couldn’t resist giving it a try.

Joanna Gott

These little woodland friends turned out even sweeter than I imagined! With their tiny painted faces, fabric outfits, and acorn hats, they have so much personality. Best of all, they’re incredibly simple to make and use supplies you probably already have tucked away in a craft drawer.

It’s the perfect little fall activity for an afternoon at home, especially when you want something creative to do without making a special trip to the craft store.

Supplies You’ll Need

One of my favorite things about this project is how little you actually need. Most of the supplies can be found around your house, and the most important ones can be gathered on your next neighborhood walk!

• Acorns: Look for acorns with their little caps still attached or collect the caps separately. You’ll want a few different sizes to give your people some personality.
• Small sticks: Gather small twigs from outside. We happened to have leftover cinnamon sticks from another craft, which worked perfectly and added a little extra charm.
• Acrylic paint or paint pens: For creating the little faces. Fine-tip paint pens make this especially easy!
• Fabric scraps or felt: Small pieces of fabric are perfect for creating little dresses, shirts, and scarves. We used some leftover fabric scraps from a quilting project.
• Twine or ribbon: For adding a little bow or belt around their outfits.
• Hot glue gun: To attach the acorn heads, clothing, and other little details.

How to Make Acorn People

Step 1: Gather Your Natural Treasures

Start with the fun part: foraging! Head outside and collect acorns, acorn caps, and small sticks or twigs. Look for acorns in different sizes so you can create a little family of woodland friends.

Once you’re home, brush off any dirt or debris and let your acorns and sticks dry completely. Check the acorns for holes or signs of insects before bringing them into your craft supplies.

Step 2: Create the Little Bodies

Choose a small stick for each person. These will serve as the bodies and legs of your acorn people.

If you’re using twigs, look for relatively straight pieces that are easy to wrap with fabric. You can trim them to your desired length if needed. We used leftover cinnamon sticks for ours, which worked just as well!

Step 3: Paint Their Little Faces

This might be my favorite part!

Before attaching the acorns to the bodies, use acrylic paint or fine-tip paint pens to give each one a face. Add two little eyes, a nose, and a smile. You can also add rosy cheeks, freckles, or even little eyelashes if you’d like.

Each one can have its own expression and personality. Maybe one is a little shy, another is always smiling, and another looks like she’s ready for a fall adventure.

Set the acorns aside and allow the paint to dry completely before moving on.

Step 4: Attach Their Heads and Hats

Choose an acorn for each person and pair it with an acorn cap to create a little hat.

Using hot glue, attach the bottom of the acorn to the top of your stick. Then secure the acorn cap to the top of the acorn to create the hat.

Hold everything in place for a few seconds until the glue sets.

A quick safety note: Hot glue guns and freshly applied glue can cause burns, so this step should be handled by an adult. If you’re crafting with little ones, let them help choose the acorns, paint the faces, and pick out the fabrics while an adult takes care of the gluing. Always allow the glue to cool completely before handling your finished creations.

Step 5: Give Them Some Clothes

Now it’s time to give your little people some personality!

Cut small strips of fabric or felt to wrap around the sticks. You can make dresses, sweaters, scarves, or little shirts. There really isn’t a right or wrong way to do this.

Wrap the fabric around the stick and secure it with a small dab of hot glue. We added a little twine around the waist of each person, tying it into a bow for an extra sweet detail.

Don’t worry about making everything perfectly symmetrical. I think the slightly imperfect, handmade look is part of what makes these so charming.

And just like that, you have your very own little acorn people!

Joanna Gott

More Fun Crafts to Make with Acorns

If you find yourself with a growing collection of acorns (as we did!), there are plenty of other ways to put them to good use. Here are a few more simple ideas to try:

• Acorn garland: Paint acorns in fall colors or leave them natural, then attach them to twine to create a simple seasonal garland for your mantel or bookshelf.
• Acorn mushrooms: Turn acorns and their caps into tiny mushrooms using red and white acrylic paint. These are especially cute tucked into a fairy garden.
• Painted acorns: Give acorns a colorful makeover with acrylic paint. Try polka dots, stripes, tiny flowers, or simple patterns. Display them in a little wooden bowl for an easy fall decoration.
• Acorn picture frames: Glue acorn caps or whole acorns around a simple wooden picture frame for a nature-inspired keepsake.
• Miniature acorn ornaments: Add a little twine loop to painted acorns and use them as handmade ornaments for a small fall tree or even your Christmas tree.

A Little Creativity Goes a Long Way

I love crafts like this because they remind me that you don’t need a long supply list, an elaborate plan, or a trip to the craft store to make something special. Sometimes the best projects start with a simple walk around the neighborhood and a little curiosity about what you might find along the way.

These little acorn people are proof that a handful of nature’s treasures and a few supplies from the craft drawer can turn into something awfully sweet.

So the next time you’re out for a walk and spot a few acorns on the ground, scoop some up! You never know what kind of little woodland friends might be waiting to be made.

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In November, the smell of food is different. It is an orange smell. A squash and a pumpkin smell. It tastes like cinnamon and fill up the house in the morning, can pull everyone from bed in a fog. Food is better in November than any other time of the year. –“In November” by Cynthia Rylant

It’s pumpkin-pie season as we settle into November and start to inch closer to Thanksgiving Day. If you’re looking forward to those cozy pumpkin pies but would love to add a chocolatey twist, these swirly brownies are the way to go! I used my classic, double-fudge brownie recipe for this… but the best news is that a boxed brownie mix works here as well if you’re short on time! The pumpkin pie swirls compliment the fudgy brownies with their rich cream cheese and spice mixture while making them a beautiful addition to your Thanksgiving table, without the fuss. Whether you bake these up for the big day or just want to try out an autumn treat, I hope these become a new fall-favorite for your family! Looking for more pumpkin dessert ideas? Check out these recipes for pumpkin pie 3 ways!

Make the Pumpkin Pie Swirl first. You’ll need:

• 1 ½ cups plain pumpkin puree (basically a whole can)
• 8 oz cream cheese, softened
• ¼ cup brown sugar
• ¼ cup pure maple syrup
• 2 tsp vanilla extract
• 3 tsp pumpkin pie spice
• ½ tsp cinnamon
• ¼ tsp salt

Swirl Directions:

In a large bowl, beat the cream cheese until smooth. Add all other ingredients and mix until creamy. Set aside while you prepare the brownie batter.*

Ingredients for Double-Fudge Brownies
Note: You can follow my recipe or use two boxed brownie mixes plus 2/3 cup chocolate chips.

• 3/4 cups Dutch-processed cocoa powder
• 1/2 tsp baking soda
• 2/3 cup melted butter divided (1/3 cup + 1/3 cup)
• 1/2 cup boiling water
• 2 cups sugar
• 2 large eggs
• 1 tsp pure vanilla extract
• 1/2 tsp salt
• 1 1/3 cup Bob’s Red Mill Gluten-Free Flour Mix (or same amount regular flour)
• 2 cups chocolate chips

Directions for Double-Fudge Brownies:

Preheat the oven to 350 degrees and grease a 9×13 baking dish.

In a large mixing bowl, stir together the cocoa powder and baking soda.

Stir in 1/3 cup of the melted butter until blended.

Mix in boiling water until the batter is smooth and thick.

Stir in the sugar and eggs with the remaining 1/3 cup melted butter.

Stir in vanilla and salt.

Dump in the flour and chocolate chips at the same time and stir just until combined.

Pour three quarters of the brownie batter into the baking dish (Set aside the remaining brownie batter while you add the pumpkin pie swirl)

Maria Magee

*Gently pour the pumpkin pie swirl mixture over the brownie batter in the dish, and gently smooth it out evenly over the top.

Maria Magee

Drop the remaining brownie batter onto the pumpkin swirl mixture in large spoonfuls.

Maria Magee

Use a butter knife and gently drag it through the batter. Spreading it in figure 8’s gives it a beautiful, marbled look. Don’t overmix or the colors will get lost!

Maria Magee

Bake 45-50 minutes or until a toothpick through the brownie comes out with moist crumbs, not wet batter. These need extra time to set with the pumpkin pie swirl mixed in, so give them a good 30 minutes to an hour of cooling before you cut into them.

Maria Magee

Store leftovers in the fridge. Enjoy!

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Adoption is especially close to my heart because it’s how my daughter, Penny, became my daughter. But before I was packing suitcases for China, decorating a bedroom, or imagining what life as a mom would look like, I was a woman sitting at a computer trying to figure out where in the world to begin.

I started the adoption process in 2018. In 2019, I received the news that I had been matched with a little girl in China. I thought the hardest part of the journey—the waiting to be matched—was finally behind me. Little did I know that the world was about to change, and what I expected to be the next chapter would turn into four more years of waiting as COVID brought international adoption travel to a standstill. Finally, in 2024, I boarded a plane and brought my daughter home.

I still remember receiving that match email. I was sitting at work, recovering from my fourth root canal (not exactly the glamorous setting you might imagine for a life-changing moment), when my social worker sent an email with the words “file match.” I screamed.

There she was. The little girl I had prayed for, waited for, and hoped to meet.

Today, I get to be Penny’s mom. And while I could spend an entire blog post sharing the joys of our adoption story, I also remember how overwhelming those first steps felt. If adoption is something you’ve been thinking about, I want to share a few places to start, resources to explore, and encouragement for the journey ahead.

Because sometimes God places something on our hearts long before we understand what the path will look like. Proverbs 3:5–6 reminds us to trust in the Lord and acknowledge Him in all our ways. That doesn’t mean we have to know every step before taking the first one.

First, Learn About the Different Paths to Adoption

One of the first things you’ll discover is that adoption isn’t a single process. There are several ways to grow your family, and each comes with its own requirements, timelines, costs, and considerations.

A few common paths include:

• Domestic infant adoption: Adopting a newborn or infant within the United States, typically through a licensed agency or adoption attorney.
• Foster care adoption: Providing a permanent home for a child or sibling group in the foster care system whose case plan allows for adoption. Some families begin as foster parents with the hope of adopting, while others pursue adoption of children already legally available for adoption.
• International adoption: Adopting a child from another country through an accredited adoption service provider that works within that country’s specific requirements.

Start by exploring which path interests you and learning about what each involves. A great place to begin is AdoptUSKids, which offers information about foster care and adoption, or the U.S. Department of State if you’re interested in international adoption.

You don’t have to make a decision immediately. Give yourself permission to research, ask questions, and learn.

Finding the Right Adoption Agency

Once you’ve identified the type of adoption you’d like to pursue, the next step is finding an agency that specializes in that program.

And here’s something I would encourage you to do: Don’t just contact the first agency you find. Research several. Adoption agencies can vary significantly in their programs, experience, timelines, costs, services, and approach.

Look for an agency that is properly licensed or accredited for the type of adoption you’re pursuing and has experience with the country, state, or program that interests you.

Schedule informational calls or attend orientation meetings. Ask about their process, average timelines, fees, financial policies, and what support they provide before, during, and after placement. Ask to speak with families who have completed an adoption through their agency.

Most importantly, find an agency whose philosophy and values align with yours and whose approach prioritizes the needs and well-being of children.

The agency you choose will be one of your biggest resources throughout the journey. You want people who will answer your questions, prepare you for what’s ahead, and walk alongside you when things don’t go according to plan.

What Does the Adoption Process Actually Look Like?

Although every adoption is different, there are some common steps you can expect:

1. Research and choose your adoption path. Learn about domestic, foster care, and international adoption and determine which programs may be a good fit.
2. Select an agency or adoption professional. Contact several organizations, compare programs, and choose one that meets your needs and is qualified to facilitate your adoption.
3. Complete an application. Your agency will provide the paperwork and explain the requirements for moving forward.
4. Complete your home study. This typically includes background checks, references, interviews, documentation, and a home visit. It is designed to prepare and assess your family for adoption.
5. Complete required education and training. Depending on the program, you’ll participate in classes and preparation specific to the needs of children who are adopted.
6. Begin the matching or placement process. This may look different depending on the type of adoption. You’ll work with your agency as you move toward a placement that is in the child’s best interest.
7. Prepare for placement and finalize the adoption. Once a child joins your family, there are additional legal steps, visits, and support requirements before finalization.

One thing I learned along the way is that the process requires patience. There will be paperwork you didn’t know existed, acronyms you’ll eventually learn to use in everyday conversation, and waiting periods that can test just about anyone’s patience. (I became very familiar with waiting!)

But remember, the process isn’t simply about getting to the day a child comes home. It’s about preparing yourself to become the parent that child needs.

What About the Cost of Adoption?

Let’s talk about something that often stops people before they even begin: finances.

Adoption can be expensive, particularly domestic infant and international adoption. But I want to encourage you not to assume that the initial cost means adoption is financially out of reach.

There are several ways families help fund their adoptions, including:

• Fundraising: Families host garage sales, online fundraisers, benefit dinners, auctions, and other community events. Friends, family, churches, and even local businesses may be eager to help.
• Adoption grants and scholarships: Organizations such as Help Us Adopt and Show Hope offer financial assistance to qualifying families.
• Employer adoption benefits: Check with your employer to see whether adoption assistance or reimbursement is available.
• Church and community support: Many churches have benevolence funds, adoption ministries, or members who want to help families pursuing adoption.
• Adoption loans and tax benefits: Some families explore adoption-specific loans, interest-free loans, and the federal adoption tax credit. A tax professional can help you understand current eligibility and benefits.

The National Council For Adoption has a helpful collection of financial resources to explore.

You may be surprised by how many people want to come alongside a family pursuing adoption. Don’t be afraid to ask for help or explore the options available to you. Sometimes the financial piece that initially feels like the biggest obstacle becomes something you can navigate with a little creativity, planning, and a community willing to help.

Find Your Adoption Community

If there’s one thing I wish I could emphasize enough, it’s this: The adoption community is AMAZING.

Seriously. Some of the most encouraging, helpful, generous people I have met are part of this community. Families who have walked the road before you are often more than willing to share resources, answer questions, recommend agencies, talk through the hard days, and celebrate the milestones.

Find local adoption support groups, connect with families online, attend adoption conferences, and ask your agency about parent networks. Organizations such as the North American Council on Adoptable Children offer resources and support for adoptive families.

There is something incredibly comforting about talking to someone who understands the terminology, the paperwork, the waiting, and the emotions that come with adoption. You don’t have to explain every detail because they’ve been there, too.

And just as importantly, remember that adoption is a lifelong journey. Connecting with adult adoptees, birth parents, and other members of the adoption community can help you grow in your understanding of the experiences and perspectives that deserve to be honored.

You Don’t Have to Adopt to Make a Difference

Perhaps adoption isn’t something you feel called to pursue. That doesn’t mean you don’t have a place in this story.

You can support a family by bringing dinner during a busy season, contributing to an adoption fundraiser, helping with childcare, or simply being someone who listens. You can volunteer with organizations serving children in foster care, donate supplies, mentor youth, or support birth families.

You can also pray. Pray for children waiting for families, for parents navigating difficult decisions, for foster families, and for adoptive families learning how to navigate a new season together.

First Thessalonians 5:11 encourages us to “encourage one another and build each other up” (NIV). I think that’s such a beautiful picture of what the adoption community can look like. We aren’t all called to take the same path, but we can all be a source of encouragement, generosity, and support to those who are.

There’s Room for Everyone in the Story

When I look at Penny today, I am reminded just how much can change when we take that first step of faith. I think about the little girl I was matched with in 2019, the four years of unexpected waiting, and the day in 2024 when I finally got to hold my daughter. I think about all the milestones I missed and all the beautiful, ordinary moments we get to share now.

If I could go back and talk to the version of myself who was just beginning the adoption process, I’d tell her that she doesn’t need to have every answer. I’d tell her to ask questions, find her people, take one step at a time, and trust that even when the timeline looks different than expected, there is still so much possibility ahead.

Maybe you’ve been thinking about adoption for years. Maybe November is the first time you’ve seriously considered it. Or perhaps you know that adoption isn’t the path for your family, but you’d love to support someone who is walking it.

Wherever you find yourself, there is an opportunity to make a difference.

You might be the family who opens their home. You might be the friend who helps fund a home study, the church member who organizes a fundraiser, the neighbor who brings dinner, or the person who simply takes time to learn more and share what they’ve learned with someone else.

We don’t all have to play the same role.

And perhaps that’s one of the most beautiful things about community: when we each do what we can, we become part of something much bigger than ourselves.

So this November, I hope you’ll take a moment to learn, encourage, support, and perhaps even take a first step toward something you’ve been praying about. There are children, families, and communities whose lives can be changed by people who are simply willing to show up.

I know mine was. And I will forever be grateful that one day, I took that first step.

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But no matter the scale of the dinner, what I’ve learned it that organization is key. Cooking for 2 can be just as stressful as cooking for 20 if you don’t have a plan. So today I’m sharing my personal tried-and-true Thanksgiving menu, grocery list, and day-by-day cooking schedule to make sure that, if you’re hosting this year, everything runs as smooth as possible.

Caveat: This is not to imply that if you’re hosting you need to cook everything yourself. You absolutely don’t. By all means, have your guests help you out by bringing a dish. But if you are planning to cook the whole thing yourself, this plan will help you do it well.

Thanksgiving Menu:

Turkey: Alton Brown Traditional Roast Turkey Recipe

Five months after I got married, I hosted my first Thanksgiving. I incessantly researched how to cook a turkey, but once I saw how simple Alton Brown made it look on the Food Network (and that it didn’t take hours and hours like I’d heard), that was the recipe I chose. It worked like a champ – and I haven’t tried anything else since. I stick with what works.

Stuffing: Traditional Turkey Stuffing Recipe

This is the closest recipe I can find to the one I use. The only difference is that I don’t use all the spices listed and instead sprinkle poultry seasoning directly on the bread crumbs before adding the liquid ingredients. Then, I stuff the bird with half of it. I put the un-stuffed stuffing in the oven an hour before dinner time. Then, when I pull out the bird to rest before dinner, I remove the stuffing and mix it with the stuffing that wasn’t in the bird. Then it returns to the oven for another 30 minutes. This gives you the best of both worlds – the rich stuffing that’s full of turkey drippings without the food safety risk that can come with stuffing a bird that doesn’t quite come up to the proper temperature.

Potatoes: Duo Tater Bake from Taste of Home

This dish is not only amazingly delicious, but it does double duty AND you can make it a couple of days in advance to shorten your day-of to-do list. I was never a big fan of the sweet, marshmallow-topped sweet potatoes anyway so this satisfyingly savory dish that layers cheesy sweet and russet potatoes is a super simple, super tasty replacement for both.

Green Beans: Bacon-Wrapped Green Bean Bundles

If it’s not Thanksgiving in your house without the traditional green bean casserole, then use the recipe on the back of the fried onions container. But if you want to try something a little more elegant, try this. How cute will they look sitting on each plate?

Salad: Broccoli Salad

This is the closest to the recipe I usually make, except I omit the cheddar cheese and the dressing is much simpler (1 cup mayo, ¼ cup sugar, 2 Tb apple cider vinegar).

Rolls: Rustic Dinner Rolls from Cook’s Illustrated

You can buy dinner rolls at the store, but this is where I choose to splurge with my time. There’s nothing like a hard, crusty roll that’s fluffy and hot inside – and as you pull these from the oven right before you sit down to dinner, you’ll be glad you opted to make them yourself. Honestly they’re the best rolls I’ve ever had.

Gravy: Canned Gravy

This is where I let myself cut corners. Gravy can be difficult to make, and you’ve got enough going on in the moments before dinner that you don’t need another thing to do. Make the rolls, but buy the gravy.

Cranberry Sauce: Cranberry Relish with Pear and Orange

You can serve a cylinder of cranberry jelly. Or you could make this, which literally takes two minutes and can be made three full days ahead of time. Your choice – the amount of effort is the same! I make it without the pecans.

Dessert: Apple Pie with Homemade Whipped Cream

I know that pumpkin pie is the traditional Thanksgiving dessert, but I love me an apple pie. And I love it with sweet apples even though I know it’s “supposed” to be made with tart ones. And since it’s Thanksgiving, make it extra special with your own whipped cream – because you want to finish your meal strong, and it takes about 30 seconds.

Thanksgiving Prep & Cooking Schedule

Sunday

• If frozen, move turkey to refrigerator to thaw
• Make dough for pie crust

Monday

• Chop celery and onions for stuffing
• Chop and combine veggies for Broccoli Salad
• Prepare filling for Apple Pie

Tuesday

• Make Cranberry Relish (omit pecans)
• Mix simple dressing for Broccoli Salad (1 C. mayo, ¼ C. sugar, and 2 Tb. apple cider vinegar)
• Cook and crumble bacon for Broccoli Salad (keep all components separate)
• Assemble Duo Tater Bake (do not cook); assemble and store topping separately

Wednesday

• Prep and assemble Bacon-Wrapped Green Bean Bundles
• Assemble and bake Apple Pie
• Prep & brine turkey
• Set the table
• Tear bread for stuffing and leave it out in a bowl to dry overnight (mix occasionally so it will dry evenly)

Thursday (Thanksgiving Day)*

*This is based on a 2 pm dinner time and a 14-16 lb turkey. Adjust the timeline based on your own dinner schedule and turkey size.

7:00 am – Start dinner roll recipe.

7:50 am – Complete 2^nd step of dinner roll recipe per the instructions (2^nd knead).

8:50 am – Fold dinner roll dough per recipe instructions.

9:20 am – Fold dinner roll dough per recipe instructions.

9:30 am – Make stuffing (use poultry seasoning in lieu of all the spices included in the recipe).

9:50 am – Complete the next step of the roll recipe (form the rolls). Cover lightly with tea towel and set aside to rise.

10:15 am – Remove turkey from brine, rinse, and pat dry. Rub with canola oil.

10:30 am – Preheat oven to 500 degrees and stuff the turkey with half the stuffing. Place the other half of the stuffing in a greased casserole in the fridge.

10:50 am – Put turkey in the oven. Also lightly brush the tops of the rolls with water and put them in the oven.

11:00 am – Remove rolls from oven. Invert them onto a pan, pull apart, and turn them right-side up again. Set aside.

11:20 am – Reduce oven temp to 350; cover turkey breast with aluminum foil if it starts to brown too much. Get dressed and ready – you get a break!!!

12:50 pm – Put un-stuffed stuffing in oven. Also put in Duo Tater Bake.

1:20 pm – Remove the bird (should be 155 degrees in the thickest part of the breast) and stuffing.

1:20 pm – Remove stuffing from turkey and mix it with the stuffing in the casserole dish.

1:30 pm – Place stuffing back in oven.

1:30 pm – Put rolls back in oven.

1:30 pm – Put bacon-wrapped green beans in oven.

1:45 pm – Mix together veggies, dried cranberries, bacon, sunflower seeds, and dressing for Broccoli Salad.

1:45/1:50 pm – Remove rolls from the oven. Put topping on Duo Tater Bake.

1:50 pm – Carve your turkey (or enlist someone to do it for you).

1:55 pm – Heat your gravy.

2:00 pm – Remove stuffing, Duo Tater Bake, and green beans from oven. Grab the cranberry relish from the fridge.

2:00 pm – Dinner time!

4:00 pm (or whenever you plan to have dessert) – Make whipped cream.

Download the complete cooking schedule here.

Download the complete shopping list for this menu here.

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“Give thanks in all circumstances; for this is the will of God in Christ Jesus for you.” 1 Thessalonians 5:18

But somehow I still can’t take the easy road and buy one of those premade supermarket meals that you just pick up.

So, how DOES a mom reduce the Thanksgiving stress?

Here are some ideas:

Eat out – Some moms take their families to a restaurant.  If you can find one open and you can afford it, I think it’s a brilliant idea.  Bonus: no dishes!  Con: no leftovers which the men in my family say is the best part.

Cook another day – My sister-in-law and nieces cook their feast a week before Thanksgiving.  There is something about doing it on a random day that takes the stress away.  Then, on Thanksgiving, they are free to watch movies and eat snacks.

Only the fun things – There are some dishes that are labor intensive and not fun to cook at all.  So, buy those premade and only cook the other things.  Maybe order a baked turkey and then you make the sides.

Easy ingredients – A recent trip to Trader Joe’s found me buying frozen sweet potato chunks (no more peeling and long boiling times), gravy already made (it was delicious), and even a yummy premade stuffing loaded with extra goodies!  Just buying those three things will save me a long time in the kitchen!

Don’t stuff it – I used to cram my hand inside the turkey trying to get as much stuffing in the cavity as possible.  Then, after years of doing that, I found out my family only liked the crispy stuffing that was baked separately.  Now my turkey cooks faster without the added stuffing and I’m not having to get up early to put it in the oven.  How many things do we cook on holidays that our family is willing to do without?

His way – Some people love to barbecue.  Have one of those in your family?  Have him or her cook as much as possible on the barbecue or smoker.  Less dirty dishes, more space in the oven!

Only the good stuff – Does your family only like the breast meat?  Cook a turkey breast instead of the whole bird.  Slather on some butter and spices and shove it in the oven.  So easy.

Costco pies – Buy the pies!  How many exclamation points can I add to this?  Their pies are huge, inexpensive, and yummy.  Buy them early to avoid the lines and freeze them until you need them.  Buy cans of whipped cream.  The kids love to squirt their own.

Tradition – Of course there are always those little things that kids remember with joy. Have the family agree on a favorite and make that one dish.

Pass off cleanup – No games, no dessert, no fun until the dinner dishes are done and the food is put away.  That chore is way more fun when everyone works together.

There is no way around the fact that some work needs to go into making the holiday special for your family.  I once went to a friend’s house for Thanksgiving and everything came from a box.  We had pressed turkey loaf, powdered potato flakes, stove top stuffing, and canned veggies.  At the end of the meal we were all salt-loaded and felt ill.  But rest assured, there are steps that you can skip without anyone noticing.

Some of the hints above won’t work for every family.  But some are worth trying to see if they ease some stress from your shoulders.

I’m for sure instilling some of these ideas so I can leave the kitchen and get back to praising the Lord for His many blessings.  Who knows, maybe Thanksgiving will become one of my favorite holidays again!

“Oh give thanks to the Lord, for he is good, for his steadfast love endures forever!” Psalm 107:1

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One minute we’re settling into fall routines, and the next we’re wondering how many pounds of potatoes we need, whether the turkey is thawing fast enough, and if we’ll ever find time to clean the house before guests arrive. For moms especially, Thanksgiving can feel like a lot. We’re meal planning, grocery shopping, preparing our homes, and trying to create meaningful memories all at the same time.

But somewhere between the grocery lists and pumpkin pies, it’s worth remembering what makes this season so special.

Over the years, we’ve shared countless Thanksgiving stories on AllMomDoes. Some are filled with practical ideas, others with encouragement, and many remind us that gratitude isn’t reserved for perfect circumstances. Whether you’re hosting a house full of family, traveling to loved ones, or navigating a difficult season, we hope these resources encourage you to slow down and savor what matters most.

Thanksgiving Isn’t About Perfection

Let’s be honest. Thanksgiving rarely goes exactly as planned.

The rolls burn. Someone arrives late. The kids argue. The pie crust cracks. Yet many of our favorite family memories come from those perfectly imperfect moments.

The most important thing to remember this Thanksgiving isn’t whether every detail goes smoothly. It’s choosing gratitude and keeping our focus on what truly matters.

Finding Gratitude in Every Season

For some families, Thanksgiving arrives during a season of joy and celebration. For others, it’s mixed with grief, uncertainty, loneliness, or unanswered prayers.

Laura Story’s reflection on Thanksgiving reminds us that gratitude isn’t dependent upon our circumstances. Sometimes giving thanks is an act of faith. Sometimes it’s choosing to trust God even when life doesn’t look the way we’d hoped.

The AllMomDoes Gratitude Series explores this beautifully, covering topics like finding hope, extending forgiveness, recognizing blessings in the mess, and learning to thank God even through difficult seasons.

Preparing Your Heart Before the Holiday

Before the table is set and the guests arrive, it’s worth taking a moment to prepare our hearts.

Many of us spend weeks preparing the meal but only minutes preparing spiritually. Thanksgiving is a wonderful opportunity to pause and remember God’s faithfulness throughout the year.

Consider:

• Starting a family gratitude journal
• Reading Psalm 100 together
• Sharing one way God has been faithful this year
• Writing thank-you notes to God
• Creating a gratitude tradition your family can revisit every year

These simple practices help keep Thanksgiving centered on gratitude rather than stress.

Don’t Forget the Food

Of course, Thanksgiving wouldn’t be Thanksgiving without delicious food.

Whether you’re trying a brand-new stuffing recipe, perfecting Grandma’s famous pie, or doing a few “test runs” of your favorite holiday treats beforehand (because quality control is a real thing!), food has a special way of bringing people together.

If you’re planning your holiday menu, now is a great time to browse our recipe ideas (we have a batch of options at the bottom of this page), test family favorites, and find a few new dishes to add to the table. Thanksgiving isn’t about creating a Pinterest-perfect spread. It’s about gathering around a table, enjoying good food, and creating memories with the people God has placed in our lives.

And let’s be honest, a pre-Thanksgiving pie test run is basically a public service.

Teaching Gratitude to Our Children

One of the greatest gifts we can give our kids is helping them develop thankful hearts.

When children hear us thanking God, see us appreciating others, and watch us choose gratitude even during difficult seasons, they’re learning lessons that will stay with them for years to come.

Thanksgiving offers a beautiful opportunity to model what it looks like to recognize God’s goodness in both the big moments and the everyday blessings.

A Thanksgiving Worth Remembering

At the end of the day, Thanksgiving isn’t about a perfectly cooked turkey or a spotless house.

It’s about gathering with the people we love, remembering God’s faithfulness, and giving thanks for His presence in every season of life.

Whether this year finds you celebrating, grieving, hoping, waiting, or somewhere in between, may you find reasons to be grateful. May you experience God’s peace around your table. And may this Thanksgiving be one you’ll remember not because everything was perfect, but because God was present.

Thanksgiving Resources from AllMomDoes

Encouragement & Faith

• Celebrating Thanksgiving by Laura Story
• Celebrating Thanksgiving with Thankful Hearts
• Preparing Your Heart for Thanksgiving by Emily Klesick
• The One Thing to Remember This Thanksgiving by Stephanie O’Farrell
  

Thanksgiving Recipes & Entertaining

Browse the Thanksgiving recipe collection on AllMomDoes for side dishes, desserts, family favorites, and holiday inspiration. Try a few recipe test runs before Thanksgiving week to reduce stress and discover new favorites for your holiday table. Consider creating a family recipe book with your most-loved Thanksgiving dishes to pass down through generations.

• Thanksgiving Kitchen Test Run
  
• Thanksgiving Leftover Recipes
• Savory Holiday Stuffing/Dressing Recipe and Step-by-Step Video
  
• Planning Next Year’s Holiday Season During This Year’s Holiday Season
  
• Thanksgiving Tips for a First-Time Host
  
• Harvest Salad with Maple Vinaigrette

We hope that when Thanksgiving is all said and done this year, you will have found the peace of Christ throughout these days, a heart filled with gratitude, and treasured memories with your loved ones.

Happy Thanksgiving from all of us at AllMomDoes!

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But God’s invitation is different.

Jesus never asked us to carry every burden perfectly. He simply invites us to come to Him. When our schedules are packed and our minds are racing, He offers rest that isn’t dependent on having everything checked off the to-do list. His peace meets us right in the middle of the laundry piles, carpool lines, grocery runs, and holiday preparations.

Maybe this week, instead of focusing on everything left to do, take a moment to notice what God is already doing. The laughter around the dinner table. The child who still reaches for your hand. The friend who checks in. The quiet reminder that God’s faithfulness hasn’t changed, even in a busy season.

November is often a month of gratitude, but gratitude isn’t about pretending life is perfect. It’s about recognizing God’s presence in the middle of real life. And sometimes the most meaningful thankfulness comes from seeing His goodness in ordinary moments.

So, Mom, if you’re feeling stretched thin this week, take a deep breath. You don’t have to do everything perfectly. God’s grace is sufficient for today, and tomorrow’s worries can wait until tomorrow.

The holiday season will come and go. The errands will eventually get done. But God’s love remains steady through it all.

And that is something worth holding onto.

Reflection Question:
What is one small blessing you’ve noticed today that reminded you God is with you?

Scripture:
“Come to me, all you who are weary and burdened, and I will give you rest.” — Matthew 11:28

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For everything there is a season, a time for every activity under heaven. Ecclesiastes 3:1

As I feed the baby for maybe the 12th time today, he falls asleep in my arms, what an adorable bundle of joy. I snuggle him close, breathing in deeply that intoxicating newborn smell. I am thankful. My heart is full and overflowing with gratitude to my God Who has granted me the desires of my heart.

Delight yourself in the LORD, and He will give you the desires of your heart. Psalm 37:4.

Like Hannah I praise and thank the Lord because for this child I prayed. God is faithful.

For this child I prayed, and the LORD has granted me my petition that I made to Him. 1 Samuel 1:27.

I say a prayer in my heart asking God to help me and the entire family to navigate the newborn season with grace, wisdom and joy. I ask Him to help us all find a new rhythm for our growing family.

I am reminded of Moses and how his life made such a dynamic switch in various seasons of his life. From the decadent lifestyle of a Prince in Egypt, being waited on hand and foot, enjoying every choice food and luxury imaginable, and then the animated shift to the life of a shepherd; tending not his own but his father in law’s flock in the wilderness. Sleeping outside in the elements, no fluffy, soft 700 thread count Egyptian cotton sheets or delicious and decadent palace meals in sight.

And then the switch that most resonates with me right now is the one from living a quiet life tending a flock in the wilderness to leading over two million people on a journey of escape from slavery to the promised land. Two million people, all with their varied personal needs and expectations of him.

How did he navigate that new and demanding season?

Numbers 11:11,14,16,17:

He asked the Lord, “Why did you bring this trouble on me? I am your servant. What did I do wrong? What did I do to upset you? Why did you give me responsibility over all these people? I cannot take care of all these people alone. The burden is too heavy for me. The Lord said to Moses, “Bring to me 70 of the elders of Israel. These men are the leaders among the people. Bring them to the Meeting Tent. Let them stand there with you. Then I will come down and speak with you there. The Spirit is on you now. But I will also give some of that Spirit to them. Then they will help you take care of the people. In this way you will not have to be responsible for these people alone.

From what we see in the scriptures, Moses relied heavily on the Lord his God. Often going to Him with needs and even complaints. All of which God resolved because that is the kind of God we serve. He always adequately equips us for the task and also gives us guidance and wisdom when we seek Him for it.

Another lesson I learn from the biblical story of Moses that I can apply to my life and current season is to delegate. Moses was blessed with a wise father-in-law who came to check on his son, saw the strain and enormous burden that was on him and advised him to delegate many of his responsibilities to capable men.

Moses’ father-in-law replied, “What you are doing is not good. You and these people who come to you will only wear yourselves out. The work is too heavy for you; you cannot handle it alone. Listen now to me and I will give you some advice, and may God be with you. You must be the people’s representative before God and bring their disputes to him. Teach them his decrees and instructions, and show them the way they are to live and how they are to behave. But select capable men from all the people—men who fear God, trustworthy men who hate dishonest gain—and appoint them as officials over thousands, hundreds, fifties and tens. Have them serve as judges for the people at all times, but have them bring every difficult case to you; the simple cases they can decide themselves. That will make your load lighter, because they will share it with you. If you do this and God so commands, you will be able to stand the strain, and all these people will go home satisfied.” Moses listened to his father-in-law and did everything he said. Exodus 18:17-24

That he listened to the wise advice of his father-in-law is a testament to the kind of man Moses was. May we be humble enough to recognize and accept wise counsel from loved ones.

I immediately put that onto practice in my own life and family. I noticed that right before lunch time, when the children have finished their morning homeschool work, when the chores have been completed, when the hubby, who thankfully works from home, is done with the morning rush of meetings, this is the best time for me to catch a quick nap. So I prepare lunch, feed the baby and set aside some extra breastmilk just in case (a big thank you to the friend that gifted me a hands-free breast pump) and off I go for some much needed rest.

Anyone who has ever had the privilege of looking after a new born knows that waking up every 2-3 hours all through the night will take its toll on you. So a 2 hour nap in the middle of the day is so refreshing. I will be doing this every opportunity I get from now on. And like Moses, I am grateful that God has blessed me and surrounded me with capable people that I can delegate some of my responsibilities to so I do not burn out.

The next time a friend, neighbor or family member offers to help with the dishes, cook a meal, walk your dog or buy you groceries, or any other act of service, please accept the help! You are not being a burden but rather a blessing because as they bless and give to you, God will bless and give to them. Or maybe there is someone in your circle that is in need of a helping hand, may this serve as an encouragement to you to offer your prayers yes, but your service as well.

And do not forget to do good and to share with others, for with such sacrifices God is pleased. Hebrews 13:16.

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Penny had been saving up and decided she wanted to spend some of her hard-earned cash on mini figurines. And by mini figurines, I mean the tiny little things that seem to multiply in our house when no one is looking. She already has approximately one million of them, give or take a few hundred, but apparently, her collection was missing something very important.

I told her she didn’t need more. She already had plenty, and perhaps her money could be put toward something else.

And then, because motherhood has a funny way of holding up a mirror when you least expect it, I looked around my own room.

The collections. The clothes I rarely wear. The things I bought because they were cute, useful in theory, or on sale. The little treasures I had accumulated over time that I didn’t actually need, use, or even think about most days.

Well. That was awkward.

Here I was, explaining to my daughter that having enough should be enough, while surrounded by my own collection of things that had somehow convinced me they deserved a place in my home.

Penny’s figurines suddenly felt less like the problem and more like an invitation to take a good, honest look at all of us.

We’ve Been Convinced We Need More

Consumerism is clever. It doesn’t always show up as an obvious desire to buy everything in sight. Sometimes it looks like a new seasonal collection, a clothing haul, a product launch, or a perfectly curated home that makes us wonder why our own spaces don’t look quite as put together.

Every season brings something new to want. Every scroll offers another thing we didn’t know existed five minutes ago but now somehow cannot live without.

Before we know it, we’re shopping for fall decor while storing summer decor, buying new clothes while our closets are overflowing, and purchasing organizational bins to organize the things we probably should have gotten rid of in the first place. (Please tell me I’m not the only one who has done this.)

There’s nothing inherently wrong with buying something beautiful or enjoying a new purchase. I love beautiful things! But there’s a difference between enjoying what we have and constantly searching for what we don’t.

Sometimes, our homes don’t need more storage. They need a little simplifying.

And as we approach the holidays, when gift lists grow, sales multiply, and the temptation to buy just one more thing seems to be everywhere, I’m feeling a renewed desire to make room in our home for what actually matters.

Not just physically, by clearing out the closets and making space in the cupboards, but mentally and spiritually, too. I’d love to spend less time managing our belongings and more time enjoying the people and moments that make our home feel like home.

What If Simplifying Is About More Than Our Stuff?

When we think about decluttering and downsizing, many of us immediately think of Marie Kondo, whose approach encourages us to keep the things that spark joy. And while there is wisdom in being intentional about what we own, the idea of living with less isn’t a new concept.

It’s biblical.

Scripture has plenty to say about our relationship with possessions, our desire to accumulate, and the danger of allowing material things to take up too much space in our hearts.

In Luke 12:15, Jesus warns us to be on guard against greed because life does not consist in the abundance of possessions. In other words, the amount of stuff we own is not a measure of the life we’re living.

Matthew 6:19–21 encourages us not to store up treasures on earth, where things deteriorate and disappear, but to store up treasures in heaven. Jesus follows this with a powerful reminder: our hearts follow our treasures.

Proverbs 11:28 reminds us that those who trust in their riches will fall, while Colossians 3:5 warns against greed and calls it idolatry. That’s a sobering thought. Anything we elevate above God, anything we rely on to give us our worth or satisfaction, can begin to take a place in our hearts that it was never meant to occupy.

Even Ecclesiastes 5:10 reminds us that those who love money never have enough. That same restless desire can creep into our relationship with possessions: the next purchase, the next upgrade, the next thing that promises to make life feel a little more complete.

These verses aren’t a command to live in empty rooms or feel guilty about owning a favorite sweater. They’re an invitation to examine our hearts.

Are we buying because we genuinely need something? Are we finding joy in what we’ve been given? Or are we chasing the feeling that the next thing will finally be enough?

Simplifying our homes can be a practical way to practice contentment, generosity, and stewardship. We can make room in our homes while also making room in our budgets, our schedules, and our hearts.

And perhaps, in the process, we can teach our children that having more isn’t the same as having enough.

Five Ways to Simplify Your Home Before the Holidays

You don’t have to transform your entire house in one weekend. Please don’t. Nobody needs to spend November recovering from an organizational marathon. Start small, involve your family, and celebrate the progress.

1. Start with Toys and Children’s Belongings

Begin with the things your children have outgrown, no longer play with, or have completely forgotten they own. Have them help sort their toys into three categories: keep, donate, and discard.

For younger children, work in small batches rather than asking them to part with everything at once. Encourage them to choose a few toys in good condition that another child might enjoy.

And if your child has a collection of approximately one million mini figurines, perhaps this is a good opportunity to discuss enjoying what we have before adding more.

The goal isn’t to make our children feel bad for wanting something new. It’s to help them appreciate what they already have and understand that we can enjoy our belongings without constantly adding to them.

Lily Solopova

2. Tackle One Closet, Drawer, or Room at a Time

Choose a manageable area each day. One kitchen drawer. One bathroom cabinet. One closet shelf. Set a timer for 15–20 minutes and see what you can accomplish.

Remove items that are broken, expired, no longer useful, or simply taking up space. For clothing, ask yourself whether you actually wear it, whether it fits comfortably, and whether you would choose it again today.

Don’t get caught up in creating a picture-perfect home. The goal is to create a home that functions better for the people living in it.

Small steps add up, and you might be surprised how much lighter a room feels after you’ve let go of a few things you no longer need.

3. Create a Donation Station

Keep a box or basket in a designated spot where family members can place things they’re ready to pass along. When it fills up, take it to a local donation center or arrange a pickup.

This makes simplifying an ongoing habit instead of a massive seasonal event. It also gives children a practical way to learn generosity: the things we no longer need can become useful and meaningful to someone else.

Talk about how sharing our abundance is one way we can care for others. What has been sitting unused in our home might be exactly what another family needs.

Just be sure to get donations out of the house promptly. Otherwise, congratulations! You’ve simply created another pile.

Thai Liang Lim

4. Simplify Your Kitchen and Household Supplies

Before holiday baking begins, clear out expired pantry items, duplicate utensils, mismatched food containers, and appliances you haven’t used in years.

Do the same with linens, cleaning supplies, craft materials, and seasonal decorations. Keep what you use and love, and let go of the rest.

Before buying anything new for holiday entertaining, take inventory of what you already own. You might discover you have plenty of serving dishes, decorations, and baking supplies to carry you through the season.

This is especially helpful when kitchens get busier and homes fill with guests, ingredients, and festive projects. Having less to manage can make the season feel a little less chaotic.

5. Make Simplifying a Family Rhythm, Not a Punishment

Put on music, set a 20-minute timer, and work together. Let the kids help decide what stays and what goes, while giving them age-appropriate guidance.

Talk about why you’re doing it. Explain that caring for our belongings includes keeping them useful, sharing what we can, and resisting the urge to accumulate things simply because we can.

You can even establish a simple family rule: when something new comes into the house, consider whether something else can leave.

This doesn’t have to be a strict rule that makes every new purchase feel like a negotiation. Instead, use it as a reminder to be intentional. Before adding something to our home, let’s consider whether it will genuinely add value to our lives.

Over time, these little conversations can help children develop a healthier relationship with possessions, one that isn’t built around always wanting the next thing.

How to Make Room for Meaning as the Holidays Approach

Once your home starts to feel lighter, the next challenge is keeping it that way. And with holiday marketing ramping up, a little intentionality can go a long way.

Make a list before you shop. Decide what you actually need for gifts, meals, decorations, and celebrations. Stick to it as much as possible, even when the internet insists that you absolutely need a festive ceramic pumpkin-shaped serving dish.

Use what you already own. Before buying new decorations, pull out the ones you’ve stored away. Shop your pantry before heading to the grocery store. Rediscover clothes, toys, and craft supplies that are already in your home.

Give yourself a waiting period. When something catches your eye, give yourself 24–48 hours before purchasing it. If you still need it after the initial excitement fades, reconsider. A sale isn’t a saving if you wouldn’t have bought the item otherwise.

Focus on meaningful gifts rather than more gifts. Think about experiences, consumables, handmade items, or gifts that reflect someone’s actual interests. You don’t have to fill every inch beneath the tree to create a memorable Christmas.

Set family expectations early. Talk with your children about gift budgets, wish lists, and the difference between wanting something and needing it. Encourage them to enjoy the anticipation of the holidays without making every new desire a shopping assignment.

Make space for experiences instead of more things. A family baking afternoon, a neighborhood light drive, a movie night with homemade popcorn, or a simple evening reading Christmas stories together can become the moments your children remember long after the latest toy has been forgotten.

And perhaps most importantly, practice gratitude for what you already have. It’s hard to appreciate our abundance when we’re constantly focused on what’s missing.

Less Stuff, More Meaning

I still smile when I think about Penny and her figurines because, in the most ordinary way, she reminded me of something I needed to hear myself.

It’s easy to tell our children they have enough. It’s harder to look at our own habits and ask whether we believe it, too.

As I work through our home, I want to remember that the goal isn’t simply fewer belongings or tidier cupboards. It’s a home where we can breathe a little easier, spend less time managing our stuff, give more generously, and focus on the people and experiences that make life rich.

This holiday season, I’m hoping we can resist the pressure to keep up, buy more, and fill every empty corner. Instead, let’s clear some space, practice contentment, and remember that the most meaningful things in our homes are rarely the things we purchase.

Because according to Jesus in Matthew 6:21, where our treasure is, there our hearts will be also.

And I’d really like my heart to be focused on something more meaningful than the contents of my closets.

Even if those closets do look considerably better afterward.

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After all, no believer wants to do anything that displeases God.  It’s easy to see why people put serious rules upon themselves to stay in line.

But, what about whimsy?

Whimsy is not a word we tend to associate with God.

The definition of whimsical is – “an adjective that means unusual, playful, and imaginative.” That does describe God, doesn’t it (along with majestic, powerful, loving, etc.)?

Let’s take a look at a few examples.

Psalm 104:26 – ^“There the ships go to and fro, and Leviathan, which you formed to frolic there.”

Frolic.  That’s another fun word.  Here, it shows that play is also important to God.

And look at some of Jesus’ miracles; he turned water into choice wine (John 2:6-10) and he walked past his disciples on the water (Mark 6:48).  Jesus mourned with us, taught us, but he also laughed with us.

Look at God’s creation.  Is it gray and white like in old movies?  Are the animals quiet and well-behaved creatures?  No, He filled our world with bright colors and loud animals with unique features and voices.  Think of a platypus.  Would a god of no whimsy create such an animal?

Numbers 22:28 — “Then the Lord opened the mouth of the donkey, and she said to Balaam, ‘What have I done to you, that you have struck me these three times?’”  What could be more whimsical than a talking donkey?

CK Chesterton argued that the universe is not a cold, mechanical machine, but a joyful, whimsical fairy-tale authored by a God who loves surprise.

I had a great aunt who took her faith very seriously.  She lived it with stolid determination.  Her hair was always in a bun and her feet were clad only in old-fashioned, black orthopedic heels.  She was stern in her beliefs.

For her, there was no whimsy.  Faith was a serious business.  It was no laughing matter.  No joy exuded from her and no feeling of love either.  As she was my only relative who had faith, she confused me.  Was that what Christianity was all about?  I wasn’t sure I wanted any part of it.

Years went by and as I was drawn to Christ I too got caught up in rules.  My very nature was humor and whimsy and yet I tried to make myself into something I wasn’t.

It was only through years of life lessons and better examples of faith-filled believers that I let any whimsy in.  I was so tired of trying to cram myself into a place that wasn’t meant for me and I realized that God created me with a whimsical heart.  Who was I to shut that down?

How refreshing it was to find joy once again and to realize that faith and whimsy can coincide!

Of course we can’t be whimsical all the time.  There is certainly the need for seriousness too.  But sprinkling a little whimsy into our lives is sure to add some zest to our faith walk.

Here are a few easy ways to start:

Put a ribbon on it – I saw an older lady in the grocery store the other day.  She had put her lovely silver hair into two braids tied with pink ribbons.  She smiled as she shopped and she brought joy not only to herself but also to all those who saw her.

It’s so weird, I must have it! – I have learned that when you see something that makes you laugh, it worth the money to buy it.  I have a green dinosaur in my living room that roars when you shoot balls in his mouth.  I also have an old sleeping granny.  She clutches a tray of treasures on her lap.  When you push a button she throws the tray and her goodies fly out and so do her dentures!  I can’t help but smile whenever I look at these whimsical things.  Sprinkle your home with things that make you smile.

Ann Kirsten

Put glitter on it – Feeling down in the dumps?  Splash some glitter nail polish on.  This is an old trick I use to cheer myself up.  It works!

Cubbies – I have a set of cubbies in my entryway.  I keep my whimsies in there and I change them out every season.  They make me smile every time I walk by.

Ann Kirsten

Add color – I just bought emerald green eyeliner.  I’m old.  So what? I can still add color to my life (or buy yourself a lipstick in a bright new shade).

Me to a tee – Add color to your wardrobe. Find a tee shirt with a favorite cartoon character on the front.  Trust me, you’ll get lots of smiles!

Sock it to me – Too shy to dress bold?  Wear crazy socks!  My son keeps me in weird socks.  Anime, food items, shows we’ve watched together, ninjas, I have them all.  And I once got a care package from my friend, Jayme, that was full of unicorn socks.  Even hidden whimsy will brighten your day.

Ann Kirsten

Bare with me – Take your shoes off and walk in the grass.  I feel so connected to God when I do it.  You can literally feel His creation under your feet.  And how whimsical is grass?  It tickles!

Hang up – Hang wind chimes and bird feeders.  You’ll fill your senses with whimsy.

Use the good china – Don’t have any?  I don’t either.  But I go to thrift shops and buy lovely pieces for mere pennies.  My granddaughter loves eating off of them.

Mess it up – There is nothing more beautiful than a worn Bible.  I bought a journaling one and I add pictures and stickers and notes to the margins.  It is becoming very whimsical and I love it so much.

Church clothes – I went to a church in a different culture and I was delighted by their exuberance and the clothes they wore.  The men had suits in every color and the women wore big hats.  Too shy?  Simply add a bright barrette or some sparkly earrings to your outfit.

As these examples show, adding whimsy to your life is easy.  Let us not forget that our relationship with the Lord should include some joy and whimsy.  It’s everywhere in His creation if you only look around.

• Zechariah 8:5 — “And the streets of the city shall be full of boys and girls playing in its streets.
• Nehemiah 8:10 — “Go your way. Eat the fat and drink sweet wine and send portions to anyone who has nothing ready… for the joy of the Lord is your strength.”
• Psalm 65:12–13 — “The meadows are clothed with flocks of sheep, and the valleys are carpeted with grain. They all shout and sing for joy!”

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There is only so much we can do to avoid the sick days. As we head into this cozy yet germy time of year, it’s nice to have some books and activities ready to go to keep little kids comfy and entertained as we nurse them back to health! Here are a few of our favorite “sick day” books to get you started:

Just a Little Sick by Mercer Mayer

Little Critter might have the flu, but he still happily anticipates all the fun things he’ll be able to do with a day off from school. That is, until he realizes that being “just a little sick” might not be what he had in mind! Your kids will surely be able to relate to the stir-crazy feelings of our favorite Little Critter as he recovers from his sickness.

Get Well, Curious George by Margeret and H.A. Rey

Join George as he visits the doctor and discovers what it will take to feel better soon! He wants nothing more than to get back to his curious ways but he will first have to take care of himself with extra rest, some juice, and a few quiet activities. This story is perfect for little kids who might need to be put at ease about seeing the doctor!

The Berenstain Bears’ Sick Days by Jan and Mike Berenstain

Oh boy, is this one relatable! Mama Bear is trying to keep life chugging along as she breathlessly tries to care for a sick Sister Bear, while watching the baby, cleaning, cooking, and fighting off the germs herself. It’s an honest look at life with sick kids that both parents and children will find entertaining!

Bear Feels Sick by Karma Wilson

Our good friend Bear might be feeling under the weather, but his forest buddies are there to comfort him. Even if it means they might end up getting sick, too. This rhyming tale is a sweet and charming story with colorful, inviting illustrations that your kids will enjoy over and over!

A Sick Day for Amos McGee by Philip C. Stead

This heartwarming story follows a faithful zookeeper named Amos and his quirky animal friends. They each rely on him in different ways, so when he doesn’t show up to work because he’s at home with a cold, they return the favor and pay him a visit! My kids love this book. The illustrations are amazing and it’s a beautiful story of friendship.

A few other helpful things to have on hand for when the inevitable sick days arrive are simple puzzles, drawing pads with new crayons or markers, an easy craft kit, fun stamps, or some inexpensive fidget toys that might brighten up your child’s stuffy, sneezy day! Wishing you lots of health this season and hoping that even on the sickest most exhausting days, you will find a few moments of peace.

So do not fear, for I am with you; do not be dismayed, for I am your God. I will strengthen you and help you; I will uphold you with my righteous right hand. Isaiah 41:10

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Ingredients:

• 2-2.5 lbs. chicken breasts, sliced lengthwise
• ½ cup taco seasoning
• ½ Yellow onion, sliced
• 1 cup sour cream
• 1 28oz can enchilada sauce (or homemade)
• 1 can black beans, rinsed and drained
• 1 bag frozen corn
• 8 oz shredded cheddar or pepper jack cheese
• Toppings (optional): Sour cream, lime wedges, cilantro, avocado, tortilla chips, shredded lettuce, sliced tomatoes, green onions, and sliced black olives
• Rice for serving (optional)

Directions:

Grease crockpot. Then add sliced onion, chicken breasts, taco seasoning, black beans, and corn. Cook on high for 3-3.5 hours or low for 5 hours.

Maria Magee

Place chicken breasts on a cutting board, shred, then return to the crockpot.

Maria Magee

Mix in sour cream. Sprinkle cheese on top, cover, and allow the cheese to melt on low for another 10-15 minutes. Garnish with cilantro or green onions.

Maria Magee

Serve on rice or in a bowl topped with crushed tortilla chips and your favorite extras!

Maria Magee

Tips: If you like extra sauce, add an additional 10 oz can of enchilada sauce to the crockpot along with the 28oz.

You don’t have to add sour cream at the end, but I find it helps cut down on the acidity and the creaminess is an upgrade from traditional enchilada recipes (in my opinion!)

I hope you enjoy this tasty, satisfying recipe and that it makes your fall just a little bit easier!

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I LOVE FALL!

Fall is my reward for making it through the summer.  The changing colors, sweaters, hot drinks, good books, rainy days, I love it all!

So, when I saw these cute little cinnamon pumpkins, I just had to try to make them for myself (and share the recipe with you!).

Here’s what you’ll need:

• 1 cup ground cinnamon
• Optional: pinch of ground cloves
• ¾ cup unsweetened applesauce
• 2 Tablespoons Elmer’s glue (white or clear)
• Wood sticks (I cut them from my yard)
• Butter knife or skewer
• Parchment paper and cookie sheet

Instructions:

Preheat your oven to 200 degrees F.

Mix the cinnamon, applesauce and glue together in a medium bowl. Stir until all the cinnamon is moistened.

Place parchment paper on a cookie sheet and roll the dough into 15 balls (they will be about a heaping Tablespoon in size).

Put a stick in each ball, make sure your stick is long enough to stay in when the pumpkin is dry.

Make “pumpkin grooves” around your pumpkins with a knife or skewer.

Bake your little gourds for 2-3 hours (I did 3). Rotate the pan every 30 minutes (I don’t know if this is really necessary, but I did it).

Remove from the oven and place the pan on a cooling rack to further dry for 24 hours.

Wait until the pumpkins are cool before you peel them off the paper. A little paper may stick to the bottom, but as my mom would say, “It will never be seen on a galloping horse.”

You could add these to a bowl of potpourri, line them up on a mantle, give them as gifts…  The possibilities are endless!  Wherever you use them, your house will smell amazing!

Note: Do a search on where spices are mentioned in the Bible and you will be taken down a sweet-smelling rabbit hole!

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So we send a text that says, “I’m thinking of you! Please let me know if there is anything you need.”

And we mean every word.

There is nothing wrong with that message. In fact, I think the heart behind it is lovely. It communicates care, opens the door for connection, and reminds someone that they have people who love them. But I have been thinking lately about how, sometimes, the very people we most want to help are the least likely to know how to ask for it.

When life gets hard, even the simplest things can feel overwhelming. The person caring for a sick parent may not have the energy to figure out what they need, much less coordinate help. The new mom who hasn’t slept in three days might desperately need a meal but feel uncomfortable asking someone to bring one. The family moving across town may be surrounded by boxes, paperwork, and a thousand little decisions, leaving very little mental space to come up with a list of ways other people could help.

Sometimes, “Let me know if you need anything” unintentionally gives one more task to someone who is already carrying too much: identify a need, decide whether it is appropriate to ask, reach out, and coordinate the details.

What if, instead of asking someone to figure out how we can help, we took the time to think of something specific we could offer?

Not because we know exactly what someone needs, but because we love them enough to make helping a little easier.

Galatians 6:2 says, “Carry each other’s burdens, and in this way you will fulfill the law of Christ”. I love that picture of what it means to love one another. We aren’t asked simply to notice when someone is struggling. We are encouraged to help carry the weight.

And sometimes, carrying a burden looks less like grand gestures and more like mowing a lawn, dropping off dinner, or taking a child to the park for an hour.

Here are ten texts you can send the next time you want someone to know you care.

1. “I will mow your lawn every Friday afternoon this summer. No need to remind me!”

When life gets busy or difficult, the ordinary responsibilities don’t stop. The grass keeps growing, the laundry keeps piling up, and the garbage still needs to go to the curb.

Offering to take care of a recurring chore removes one more thing from someone’s mental to-do list. It also communicates that you understand their hard season might last longer than a few days.

You could offer to shovel snow, walk the dog, take out the trash, water the garden, or handle another regular task. The key is making a specific offer you can reliably keep.

2. “Dinner will be brought to you every Monday night until you ask me to stop.”

Food is one of the most practical ways to love someone, especially during a new season of life. A new baby, a medical crisis, a move, or a loss can make meal planning feel like an impossible task.

Instead of asking whether someone needs a meal, offer a particular day and a simple plan. If you are organizing meals with friends, you could even coordinate a schedule so the family doesn’t have to manage the details.

Be sure to account for any dietary needs you already know about, and let them know whether you’ll leave the food on the porch or stay for a visit. A little clarity makes accepting help that much easier.

3. “I’m picking up groceries tomorrow and will leave a bag of essentials on your porch. I’ve got milk, bread, eggs, fruit, and a few easy meals covered.”

Grocery shopping is one of those ordinary tasks that can feel enormous when someone is exhausted, overwhelmed, or spending long days at a hospital.

Rather than asking someone to make a list, take care of a few basics you know they use. You can also pick up prescriptions, diapers, school supplies, or other essentials while you’re out.

You don’t have to get everything perfect. Sometimes a gallon of milk, fresh fruit, and bread can make the next couple of days feel much more manageable.

4. “I’m taking the kids to the park Saturday from 10 to noon. I’d love to take yours along, too. I’ll pick them up and bring them home!”

This one is especially helpful for families adjusting to a new baby, a move, or a difficult family situation.

When one person is stretched thin, the children still need attention, playtime, and a little fresh air. Offering to take them somewhere fun can give a parent time to rest, make phone calls, unpack boxes, or simply sit quietly for an hour.

Making the plan specific, including transportation and timing, removes the work of coordinating the details. And if the parent prefers to keep the children close, you can always offer to come over and play with them in the backyard instead.

5. “I’m coming over Thursday to help unpack your kitchen. I’ll bring coffee, too!”

Moving is exciting, but it can also be exhausting. Between packing, paperwork, address changes, and trying to remember which box contains the coffee maker, even a happy transition can leave a person overwhelmed.

Rather than offering vague help with the move, choose a manageable task. You could unpack the kitchen, assemble a bookshelf, break down empty boxes, or help organize the pantry.

If a friend is going through another kind of transition, think about what a similar practical offer might look like. Maybe you can help prepare the nursery, organize paperwork, or tackle a small project that has been weighing on them.

6. “I’m dropping off your favorite coffee and a little treat tomorrow morning. No need to come to the door!”

Not every act of support needs to be a big commitment. Sometimes, a small reminder that someone is loved can make a difficult day feel a little lighter.

A favorite coffee, a homemade treat, a bouquet of flowers, or a handwritten note can communicate, “I remembered you today.”

This is especially meaningful for people experiencing grief or loneliness, when the initial wave of support may have faded but the hard days are still coming. You don’t have to fix their circumstances. You can simply remind them that they haven’t been forgotten.

7. “I’m coming over Tuesday afternoon to sit with you for a while. I’ll bring coffee, and you don’t need to clean or entertain me. We can talk, or we can just sit together.”

When someone is struggling, we can be so focused on the practical things they need that we forget the value of simply being present.

A person caring for a sick family member may need someone to sit with them in a waiting room. A new mom may want an adult conversation that has nothing to do with feeding schedules. Someone grieving may need to tell the same story for the tenth time without feeling like they should be moving on.

Offer your presence without requiring them to entertain you or pretend everything is fine. Sometimes the most helpful thing you can do is sit on the couch, listen, and let someone be exactly where they are.

8. “I’ll drive you to your appointment Thursday and stay with you throughout. I’ll be there at 9:00 to pick you up.”

Medical appointments, difficult conversations, and unfamiliar situations can be intimidating, especially when someone is already emotionally exhausted.

Offering transportation or companionship removes logistical stress and gives someone another person to lean on. You might drive a friend to an appointment, sit with a loved one during treatment, or accompany a neighbor to an important meeting.

Be clear about the details and follow through. When someone’s world feels uncertain, knowing that one practical thing is already taken care of can be a tremendous relief.

9. “I’m praying for you today. I’m asking God to give you strength, peace, and rest in the middle of everything you’re carrying. I’ll keep praying for you throughout this week.”

For those of us who want to love others through our faith, prayer is a beautiful way to offer support. We can make it even more meaningful by being intentional and following through.

Rather than offering a quick “praying for you” and moving on, take time to pray for the person by name. If appropriate, send a short text later to let them know you prayed. You don’t need to offer an explanation for their suffering or try to find a silver lining. Simply remind them that they are seen, loved, and being brought before God.

And remember, prayer and practical help are not competing ways to love someone. Often, they belong together. You can pray for a struggling family and bring them dinner on Monday night.

10. “You don’t need to respond to this, but I want you to know I’m thinking about you. I’ll check in again next week, and you don’t have to pretend everything is okay with me.”

Sometimes people genuinely don’t know what they need. Other times, they are so overwhelmed that even responding to a kind message feels like one more obligation.

This text removes the pressure to reply while making it clear that your care won’t disappear if they don’t respond right away.

And then follow through. Check in next week. Remember the date of the appointment. Ask how the move went. Reach out a month after the funeral, when the world may have returned to normal for everyone else but still feels different to them.

Consistent care often matters more than a single grand gesture.

A Little Less Asking, a Little More Showing Up

Of course, we can’t always know what someone needs. And a specific offer should never become another expectation they have to manage. We should always respect someone’s boundaries if they decline or prefer to handle things differently.

But I wonder how often we hold back from helping because we don’t know what to do, when the truth is that we don’t need to do everything. We just need to do something.

We can mow the lawn. Bring the meal. Pick up the groceries. Sit in the waiting room. Remember to check in when the initial flurry of support has faded.

Romans 12:15 reminds us to “Rejoice with those who rejoice; mourn with those who mourn”. It is such a simple picture of what it means to love one another well. We enter into the lives of the people around us, sharing in their joy and making room for their sorrow.

We don’t have to have the perfect words or know how to fix every problem. We simply have to be willing to show up in the ways we can.

So the next time someone you love is walking through a difficult season, by all means, tell them you care. Tell them you’re thinking of them. Tell them you’re praying.

And then, if you can, give them something specific to say yes to.

Because sometimes the most loving words aren’t, “Let me know if you need anything.”

Sometimes they’re, “I’m bringing dinner on Monday. I’ll see you then.”

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Read more of Joanna’s contributions to AllMomDoes here.

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As I write this, we haven’t had our first frost yet.  But it is coming and it will catch me by surprise like it does every year.

I watch my garden as it struggles to keep up with the changing temperatures.  Some of my tender plants have already wilted and have been pulled up for the compost or burn pile.  The hardier ones are still flourishing and will continue to do so until the winter sets in.

It always makes me sad to watch my tomato plants go through this change.  They are the proud plants of my garden.  They grow like crazy in the good times.  They try to take over the entire garden, growing seven feet tall and spreading their limbs in every direction.  They pay no attention to boundaries and spill over into the neighboring beds.  They supply me with plenty of beautiful, shiny, red and orange tomatoes during the season.

Ann Kirsten

Then, the first frost arrives and the vibrant green vines instantly wither and turn black.  It makes me so sad to see all the green tomatoes that didn’t get their chance to ripen before the cold weather destroyed their vines.  What a waste.  I always feel guilty, like I let the green ones down somehow.  I should have planted earlier, or picked more often, or somehow saved them from the fate of the compost bin.

A few years ago I had so many large and perfect green tomatoes left over that I did some research.  Do you know that you can make SO many things with green tomatoes?  There are recipes galore out there, both sweet and savory.

Ann Kirsten

The first thing I made was green tomato and cheese muffins.  I figured cheese could make anything taste better and would hide any unripe tomato flavor.  Oh, my goodness!  The resulting muffins were delicious!  I raved about them here: Tomatoes Won’t Ripen? Make These Green Tomato Muffins!

The tomatoes mellowed into the most wonderful flavor.  Added bonus: your kids will never know there are vegetables in their muffins.  I promise you this is true.  It’s not like those black bean or spinach brownies people talk about.  Yuck.  No, these were quite simply the best muffins I had ever tasted.

So this year I decided to try making something sweet with green tomatoes.  I chose a bar recipe and once again I was impressed.  After cooking, the tomatoes tasted like apples instead.

Ann Kirsten

Green Tomato Bars

• 2 cups green tomatoes, diced
• 1 cup brown sugar
• 1 tablespoon lemon juice
• 1/3 cup butter, softened
• 3/4 cups all-purpose flour
• 1/4 teaspoon salt
• 1/4 teaspoon baking soda
• 1/4 teaspoon cinnamon
• 1 cup old fashioned oats
• 1/4 cup pecans or walnuts, chopped

Directions:

Preheat oven to 350 degrees.

In a small pot over medium heat, combine the tomatoes, brown sugar and lemon juice. Cook until the mixture has thickened a bit, about 20-25 minutes.  You will be tempted to cook it longer because the tomatoes don’t break down at this point.  Don’t worry, they soften in the oven.

In a bowl, combine the remaining ingredients and mix well.

Grease a 9×9 inch baking pan really well and press 2/3 of the mixture into the bottom, pour the tomato mixture on top of that and then top with the remaining oat mixture.

Bake for 25-30 minutes, or until light brown. Yum!

The beauty of cooking with green tomatoes is that they end up taking on the flavor of the other ingredients you’ve added.  They lose all tomato taste.  They turn into the yummiest and sweetest ingredient instead.

You can find green tomato recipes for relishes, chow-chows, pickles, pies, cakes, breads, muffins, casseroles, and so much more.  There are enough recipes out there for you to use up all of your unripened tomatoes!

Today I added green tomatoes to my red and orange ones.

Ann Kirsten

I will slow roast them and make Tomato Confit (Recipe here at AllMomDoes: Easy Tomato Confit.  I will probably blend the confit to make pasta sauce.  After that, my next green tomato experiment will be relish.  I can’t wait to make a sandwich with homemade green relish piled on top.

As you can see, those green tomatoes that I always viewed as sad and useless actually have great merit.  How many other things (and people) have I viewed incorrectly?

Gentleness or meekness is talked about so many times in The Bible.  Green tomatoes have a meek, gentle nature to them.  Unlike their proud red brothers and sisters, they seem to have lost all hope of being called to use as they cling to frost-destroyed vines.

I love that I have found uses for them.  Now, instead of feeling sorry for them, I actually look forward to having some green tomatoes left over at the end of the season.

As God often called the lowly and unqualified people to do His bidding, I am using the lowly green tomatoes in ways I never dreamed of before.  And like those God used, they have risen to the tasks.

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I started the adoption process when I was 39 years old. I was matched with my daughter, Penny, when I was 41, just after she had celebrated her first birthday. Today, I am 48, and Penny is about to turn eight.

Let me just say that becoming a mom at this stage of life is a beautiful, unexpected, occasionally hilarious adventure. It is also an experience that comes with a few surprises, particularly when you realize that you are not quite in the same season of life as many of the other parents around you.

When the Other Mom Was Born the Year You Graduated

You know those moments when someone says something completely innocent, and suddenly you feel like you’ve aged approximately 47 years in three seconds?

I had one of those moments recently at a school event.

I was chatting with a lovely couple whose child is in Penny’s class. We were having a perfectly normal conversation about high school when one of them asked what year I graduated.

“1997,” I replied.

The mom looked at me and said, “That is the year I was born!”

I genuinely didn’t know whether I should laugh or cry.

I mean, what do you even say to that? Congratulations on being born the year I was taking my senior pictures? Would you like me to tell you about dial-up internet and the days before everyone carried a phone in their pocket?

I smiled, laughed, and carried on with the conversation, but internally, I was doing some serious math.

These are the moments when you become acutely aware that you are not necessarily the same age as the other parents in the room. And while I know age is just a number, it turns out that number can feel awfully large when you’re standing next to someone who was born the year you graduated high school.

Of course, this isn’t the only time I’ve noticed the difference.

Some parents seem to be in their physical prime. They can chase their kids around the playground, scale the climbing equipment, and probably outrun their children without breaking a sweat.

Meanwhile, I’m Googling perimenopause symptoms and wondering why my back hurts after playing LEGOs on the floor for ten minutes.

Getting up from the floor has become its own Olympic event. And don’t even get me started on how old I will be when Penny graduates from high school. Yes, I’ve done the math. It’s scary. No, I don’t want to talk about it.

While some of my friends are becoming empty nesters, I’m trying to figure out which of the seven apps Penny’s school uses for communication and whether the important announcement was posted in the classroom app, the district app, the email newsletter, or somewhere else entirely.

Apparently, parenting in your late forties requires both reading glasses and a strong Wi-Fi connection.

It’s a different season of life, that’s for sure. And I know I’m not the only woman who has found herself becoming a mom later than she expected, looking around at the other parents and wondering how she ended up on a different timeline.

Penny & Joanna | Photo: Amanda Parker

God Has Always Worked Through Different Seasons

When I think about becoming a mom later in life, I’m reminded of Ecclesiastes 3:1:

“There is a time for everything, and a season for every activity under the heavens.”

It’s a familiar verse, but I think it’s particularly meaningful for those of us whose lives haven’t unfolded in the order we once imagined.

We live in a world that loves milestones and timelines. We tend to picture life happening in a certain sequence: finish school, start a career, get married, have children, watch them grow up, and eventually enjoy an empty nest. When our lives don’t follow that pattern, it’s easy to wonder whether we’ve somehow fallen behind.

But Scripture tells a different story.

Sarah became a mother to Isaac in her old age (Genesis 21:1–7). Elizabeth gave birth to John the Baptist when she and Zechariah were advanced in years (Luke 1:5–25, 57–66). Their stories are different from mine, and their experiences aren’t a promise that every longing will be fulfilled in the same way. But they remind me that God’s work is not confined to the seasons we consider conventional.

God has always been able to bring about something meaningful in unexpected circumstances.

Psalm 31:15 says, “My times are in your hands.”

I love that reminder. My times are in His hands, including the years when I didn’t know whether I would become a mother, the long adoption process, and the seasons when I watched other women experience milestones I was still waiting for.

I spent years wondering when my season of motherhood would begin. I wanted to know how the story would unfold and when I would finally get to hold the child I had prayed for.

Looking back, I can see that God was present in those years, too. He was at work in my life long before I knew how my story would turn out.

And that brings me to something I have come to appreciate about becoming a mother later in life.

The Years Before Motherhood Weren’t Wasted

When I think about my life before Penny, I don’t look back with regret. I think about the career I established, the places I traveled, the friendships I cultivated, and the community I built. I think about the experiences that stretched me, the disappointments that strengthened my faith, and the lessons I learned along the way.

For a long time, I didn’t know how those experiences would fit into the bigger picture of my life. I certainly didn’t know when or how I would become a mom.

But now, when I look at my life with Penny, I can see how God used so many of those experiences to prepare me for motherhood.

The years of waiting taught me patience and surrender. My career taught me how to navigate challenges and solve problems. My friendships taught me the importance of community. My experiences gave me a perspective that I now get to share with my daughter.

Even the adoption process itself prepared my heart in ways I couldn’t have understood at the time.

I spent years wishing I could skip ahead to the part where I finally became a mom. I wanted the answer, the resolution, the moment when the waiting would finally be over.

But now I can see that the years before Penny came home were part of my story, too. They shaped me into the woman who would eventually become her mother.

Perhaps that is one of the gifts of becoming a mom later in life. You bring your whole story with you. You bring the experiences, the lessons, the relationships, and the faith that have grown through all the seasons that came before.

I know that isn’t everyone’s experience. Some women arrive at motherhood carrying grief, disappointment, or circumstances they never would have chosen. Not every season makes sense when we’re living through it, and not every difficult experience comes with an obvious explanation.

But I do believe God can meet us in every season and continue to work in us, even when we cannot yet see what He is doing.

Isaiah 46:4 offers this beautiful reminder:

“Even to your old age and gray hairs I am he, I am he who will sustain you. I have made you and I will carry you; I will sustain you and I will rescue you.”

His faithfulness isn’t reserved for one particular stage of life. He is with us in the waiting, in the becoming, and in the living out of the things we once prayed for.

Learning to Embrace the Season We’re In

Of course, understanding all of this doesn’t mean comparison never creeps in.

There are still moments when I look around at school events and feel the age difference. There are times when I wonder how I’ll keep up with Penny as she gets older. And there are days when I wish I had the energy of a 28-year-old mom rather than the desire to sit down with a heating pad.

But I’m learning that being a good mom has very little to do with being the youngest, the most energetic, or the parent who understands every new technology the school introduces.

It has much more to do with showing up, loving your child, learning alongside them, offering guidance, apologizing when you get it wrong, and creating a home where they know they belong.

Those things aren’t reserved for women who become mothers at a particular age.

And this lesson extends far beyond motherhood. Maybe you’re starting a new career while your friends are retiring. Maybe you’re rebuilding after a difficult season while everyone around you seems settled. Maybe you’re stepping into something new at an age when you thought you would have everything figured out.

It’s natural to look around and wonder why your life looks different. But Ecclesiastes 3 reminds us that there are different seasons for different purposes. We don’t all experience them in the same order, and we don’t all arrive at the same milestones at the same time.

I want to be careful not to spend so much time looking over at someone else’s season that I miss the beauty of my own.

I want to be present for Penny’s childhood. I want to enjoy the little things, even when they come with tired eyes and an aching back. I want to embrace the opportunity I’ve been given rather than spend my days wishing it had arrived sooner.

Because this season, with all its challenges and surprises, is a gift.

If You’re a Mom on a Different Timeline

If you’re reading this and became a mom later in life, I hope you can find a little comfort in knowing that you’re not the only one navigating this experience.

I hope you can laugh at the awkward moments when someone assumes you’re a grandmother or when you realize the other parents at school were born after you learned to drive. I hope you can acknowledge the challenges that come with parenting at a different age without allowing those challenges to overshadow the joy.

Maybe you became a mother through adoption after years of waiting, as I did. Maybe infertility, loss, remarriage, or circumstances you never anticipated changed the path you thought you would take. Whatever brought you to this season, you don’t have to apologize for the story that led you here.

You can be grateful for the life you lived before motherhood and grateful for the life you’re living now. You can acknowledge that some things are harder while still recognizing the beauty of this season. And you can trust that God can use the experiences you’ve had, the lessons you’ve learned, and the years you’ve spent waiting to shape the mother you are today.

Philippians 1:6 reminds us:

“Being confident of this, that he who began a good work in you will carry it on to completion until the day of Christ Jesus.”

God is still working in you. He was present during the waiting, and He is present now. Your story is still unfolding.

I don’t know exactly what the next ten years of motherhood will hold. I know there will be more school events, more conversations that remind me I’m getting older, more technology I don’t understand, and probably a few more Google searches about what is happening to my body.

But I also know there will be laughter, adventures, hard conversations, new traditions, and countless opportunities to watch Penny grow into the person God created her to be.

And when I think about it that way, I wouldn’t trade a single year of the life that brought me here.

I didn’t become a mom too late. I became Penny’s mom in the season that became our story, and I am so grateful for it.

So, if your life looks a little different from the one you imagined, perhaps you can give yourself permission to stop measuring it against someone else’s. You don’t have to rush through the season you’re in to catch up with someone else, and you don’t have to have the next ten years figured out to appreciate the day in front of you.

As Ecclesiastes reminds us, there is a season for everything. We may not always understand God’s timing, and we may not have chosen every twist and turn along the way. But we can trust the One who holds our times in His hands.

As for me, I’ll be over here trying to get up off the floor after playing LEGOs, reminding myself that my back may be getting older, but my heart is right where it belongs.

And honestly? I wouldn’t have it any other way.

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Read more of Joanna’s contributions to AllMomDoes here.

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Maybe it’s because I love summer so much. I love the freedom of it. The long days. The warm air. The fact that we can walk out the back door in the morning and somehow still be outside hours later. There are bikes to ride, sidewalks to chalk, sprinklers to run through, neighborhood walks to take, and approximately 7,000 rocks, sticks, leaves, and other treasures to collect.

Summer makes entertaining kids feel almost effortless.

Not that summer parenting is actually effortless. We still have the occasional “I’m bored” and “What are we doing today?” and “Can I have a snack?” approximately fourteen minutes after breakfast. But there is just so much available to us when the weather is warm.

And then fall arrives.

The days get shorter. The sun starts disappearing earlier. The temperatures drop. Suddenly, it is 4:30 in the afternoon and I am looking out the window wondering how on earth we are going to make it until bedtime.

This is usually when my mom panic begins.

How am I going to keep this child entertained all through the coming months?

Because while I absolutely believe kids need to learn how to be bored and entertain themselves, I also know that there are only so many times I can suggest coloring before I start questioning my own parenting abilities.

So, rather than trying to fill every single cold-weather afternoon with an elaborate activity, I have been reminding myself that we don’t need to spend a fortune or create something amazing to make an ordinary day feel special.

Sometimes we just need a change of scenery, a little creativity, or permission to turn something simple into an adventure.

Here are five of our favorite ways to pass the time when the weather sends us inside.

1. Head to the Library

Tashi Delek

Our public library is one of those resources that I don’t think we take advantage of nearly enough.

Obviously, there are the books. And lots and lots of books. But libraries are so much more than a place to check out a stack of stories.

Many libraries offer children’s programming, story times, craft activities, community gatherings, play areas, puzzles, games, and other events that can turn an ordinary afternoon into something to look forward to.

And sometimes you don’t even need a specific plan.

We can walk in, browse the children’s section, let Penny choose a few books, spend some time playing, and then come home with a bag full of stories to explore together.

There is something about going somewhere that makes it feel like an activity, even if the activity is simply looking at books.

And best of all? It’s free.

When you’re trying to stretch the family budget while also surviving several months of cold weather, the library is basically a parenting superpower.

2. Bake Something Together

People Images

When the weather outside is miserable, there are few things better than turning on the oven and making the house smell amazing.

And before you start thinking that I am suggesting you spend an entire afternoon making homemade cinnamon rolls from scratch, let me stop you right there.

A box of cake mix counts.

A package of refrigerated cookie dough counts.

Pancakes for dinner count.

Even letting your kids help make lunch counts.

Sometimes the activity isn’t really about what you are making. It’s about letting them be involved.

Penny loves being in the kitchen with me, and I’ve learned that she doesn’t need a complicated recipe to feel like she’s doing something important. Measuring ingredients, stirring batter, cracking eggs, sprinkling toppings, or helping set the table can turn an ordinary meal into an afternoon activity.

And if you end up with a slightly lopsided cake covered in too many sprinkles?

Congratulations. You made a memory.

3. Have an Unexpected Movie Afternoon

Tero Vesalainen

There are days when you just need to call it.

Everyone is tired. It’s cold outside. Nobody wants to put on real pants. Dinner isn’t going to win any culinary awards.

So why not have a movie afternoon?

And I’m not talking about simply turning on the television while everyone continues doing their own thing. Make it an event.

Put the kids in charge of setting up the sofa with every blanket and pillow they can find. Make popcorn. Let them choose the movie. Turn down the lights. Maybe even eat dinner in the living room.

An unexpected movie during the middle of the week can make an otherwise ordinary day feel completely different.

We’ve become so accustomed to thinking that special moments require planning that sometimes we forget how much fun it can be to surprise our kids with something simple.

“How about we have a movie afternoon?”

Instant excitement.

And if you’re feeling particularly adventurous, make it a movie-and-dinner night. Pizza on paper plates, pajamas encouraged, and absolutely no apologies for the crumbs in the couch.

4. Turn the Kitchen Table Into a Craft Station

Marina Cherentsova

I have a feeling most moms have a collection of random craft supplies somewhere in their house.

You know the ones.

A cardboard box that was definitely going to become something.

Three pieces of ribbon.

A half-used bottle of paint.

A handful of popsicle sticks.

Construction paper in approximately every color except the one you actually need.

Rather than waiting for the perfect craft project to come along, pull it all out and let the kids figure out what to do with it.

Clear off the kitchen or dining room table. Put down some paper or an old tablecloth. Pull out the cardboard, scraps, stickers, paint, glue, markers, and whatever else you have on hand.

Then give them permission to create.

I love this more than a perfectly planned craft because there isn’t really a right answer.

Maybe the cardboard box becomes a house.

Maybe it becomes a robot.

Maybe it becomes something that I absolutely cannot identify.

That’s okay.

The goal isn’t to create something worthy of displaying on the refrigerator. The goal is to give kids the freedom to use their imagination.

And honestly, sometimes I think we adults need that reminder just as much as they do.

5. Go on an Adventure Walk

Brian A Jackson

Just because it’s cold or rainy doesn’t mean we have to completely abandon the outdoors.

Some of our favorite walks have actually happened when the weather was less than ideal.

There is something about putting on rain boots, grabbing an umbrella, bundling up, and deciding that the rain is part of the adventure that changes everything.

Instead of saying, “It’s too cold to go outside,” try giving the kids a mission.

You have to jump in five puddles.

Find three leaves that are different colors.

See if you can spot a bird.

Find the biggest puddle.

Pick up a leaf and see if you can float it down a sidewalk “river.”

Look for worms.

Find something red.

Suddenly, you’re not just going for a walk in the rain. You’re on an expedition.

And yes, you may come home with wet socks.

You may have to wipe mud off the dog.

Someone may inevitably announce that they are freezing approximately four minutes into the adventure.

But you might also have one of those afternoons your kids remember.

And One More: Change the Scenery

Janine Lamontagne

Sometimes the answer isn’t another activity. Sometimes you just need to get out of the house.

One of my favorite cold-weather afternoon activities is heading to a coffee shop.

Nothing fancy. Nothing complicated.

Grab yourself a coffee, get the kids a small treat, and bring along some coloring supplies, books, a card game, or a little activity they enjoy.

It doesn’t have to be a three-hour outing. Sometimes an hour is enough.

Because occasionally the walls of our own house just start to feel a little too close.

A change of scenery can reset everyone.

And let’s be honest, having someone else make your coffee is never a bad thing.

Making Peace With the Colder Months

I know that this time of year can feel long when you’re a mom.

There are days when you feel like you’ve already answered 47 questions, made 12 snacks, cleaned up the same mess three times, and it is somehow only 2:00 p.m.

But I’m trying to remind myself that I don’t have to make every cold-weather day magical.

I don’t need a color-coded schedule of enriching activities.

I don’t need a Pinterest-worthy craft.

I don’t need to spend money every time we leave the house.

I just need a handful of simple ideas to pull out when we need a little something different.

Because maybe the magic of these seasons isn’t in keeping our kids constantly entertained. Maybe it’s in slowing down enough to notice the little things we wouldn’t have time for during the busy, beautiful chaos of summer.

A trip to the library.

A box cake with too many sprinkles.

A blanket fort and a movie.

A pile of cardboard and paint.

A rainy walk in muddy boots.

A coffee shop afternoon.

These aren’t big things.

But childhood is built out of little things.

And perhaps instead of looking at the cold months ahead and wondering, How am I going to keep everyone busy? I can look at them and think, I wonder what memories we’ll make.

That feels a little less overwhelming.

And a whole lot more fun.

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God knew that it would take a lot of tries and failed attempts before the Israelites were allowed to leave.  Studying Exodus shows us just how hard it was.  If you want to delve into Exodus with your kids in a fun way, read on.

We’re making a ten plagues candy mix!

Things started off when God allowed Moses to bring Aaron with him for support.  The first miracle performed was when Moses told his brother to throw his staff down and it turned into a snake (Exodus 7:8-13).  But Pharoah’s sorcerers did the same thing (I always wondered how).  So of course Pharoah was unimpressed.  This was not one of the plagues, but it is still worthy of mention.

Use gummy snakes (or worms) if you’d like to add snakes to your mix.

Ann Kirsten

# 1 – Nile river turns to blood

God instructed Moses to strike the Nile with his staff.  The water turned to blood and all the fish died.  The Egyptians could not drink the water and it smelled awful. Even water that was in containers turned to blood.  But Pharoah’s heart was still hardened and his sorcerers managed to mimic the same thing (again, how?). This was the first plague (Exodus 7:14-24).

Red Swedish fish represent blood and dead fish nicely.

Ann Kirsten

# 2 – Frogs

Seven days after the Nile incident, God sent Moses again to the Pharoah with the message that if he refused to let the Israelites go, He would send a plague of frogs.  He warned that the Nile would teem with frogs and that they would get into the palace, the kneading troughs, and on the people themselves!  (This would have been enough to convince my granddaughter.  She is pretty sure frogs’ very reason for living is to jump on her face). (Exodus 8:1-7).

Gummy frogs suit the purpose for this plague.

Ann Kirsten

AGAIN the magicians replicated the same thing.  The frogs were so annoying though that Pharoah promised Moses and Aaron that he would let the people go to worship if they would make the frogs leave.  Of course he was lying. (Exodus 8:8-15)

# 3 – Gnats

Next, God told Moses to strike the dust in Egypt and all the dust would become gnats.  If you’ve ever been attacked by a swarm of gnats, you know how miserable it is.  Imagine all the dust turning into gnats!  For once, the sorcerers and magicians could not conjure up any gnats and they recognized the hand of God.  (Exodus 8:16-19)

Sno-Cap candy’s little white sprinkles mimic gnats nicely.

Ann Kirsten

# 4 – Flies

Pharoah’s heart was still hardened and he refused to let the people go to offer sacrifices to God.  So God told Moses to confront Pharoah again and tell him flies would be sent next.  Egypt would teem with them except none would be in the land of Goshen, showing that God’s people were separate and belonged to Him.  The next day, flies were on the Egyptians and in their houses, in the palace, and on the land.  Pharoah tried to negotiate by offering that the Israelites could worship their God right in Egypt.  Moses refused and said they had to go into the wilderness.  Pharoah agreed that if Moses would remove the flies the Israelites could go.  But his heart was hardened again and he went back on his word. (Exodus 8:20-32)

Chocolate covered raisins are an easy representation of the flies.

Ann Kirsten

# 5 – Plague on Egyptian livestock

So God told Moses to tell Pharoah that a terrible plague would break out on the Egyptian livestock.  The animals would die, but none of the Israelite livestock would be affected.  Once again, God was showing who His people were.  This was a catastrophic plague as the animals were needed for food.  But Pharoah once again refused.  (Exodus 9:1-7)

Animal Crackers represent the livestock.

Ann Kirsten

# 6 – Boils

Next, God told Moses and Aaron to take handfuls of soot from a furnace and throw it into the air in front of Pharoah.  The dust would settle over the land and festering boils would break out on animals and humans alike.  The magicians hid from Moses because not only could they not do the same thing, but they were covered with boils themselves.  (Exodus 9:8-12)

Gummy berries are covered in tiny “boils” and are perfect for this.  You could also use Red Hots if you prefer.

Ann Kirsten

# 7 – Hail

It was time for God to really show His power.  He had Moses remind Pharoah that at any time He could have wiped the Egyptians off the earth.  He warned the Egyptians to protect the animals and people inside as hail unlike any ever seen before would arrive the next day.  Those who feared God protected themselves.  Those who did not lost their slaves and their animals. No hail fell in the land of Goshen where the Israelites lived.  (Exodus 9:13-26)

White gumballs represent the hail stones.

Ann Kirsten

Pharoah admitted that he had sinned and that he would finally let the Israelites go.  Moses knew that Pharoah and his officials still did not fear God.  But he stopped the hailstorm and once again Pharoah’s heart was hardened. (Exodus 9:27-35)

God told Moses that he had hardened Pharoah’s heart so that His power could be shown.  He said that children and grandchildren should be told of the plagues so that they might know that “I am the Lord” (and that’s what we’re doing today!).

# 8 – Locusts

The next plague was locusts.  The locusts would eat anything still growing after the hailstorm.  They would cover the ground and enter all the houses.  Pharoah’s officials had had enough and wondered how long Pharoah would refuse to humble himself.  Once again, Pharoah tried to negotiate that he would allow only the men to leave.  So Moses stretched out his staff and a wind came up that blew locusts into Egypt.  The locusts ate every living thing that was left.  Pharoah agreed to let the Israelites go.  The wind changed and the locusts were blown into the Red Sea.  Yet again, Pharoah hardened his heart and wouldn’t let God’s people go. (Exodus 10:1-20)

Locusts were hard to replicate in candy.  I used Mary Janes and made a few cuts into them with scissors.  Tootsie rolls would work too or you could simply use green Mike & Ike’s.

Ann Kirsten

# 9 – Darkness

God had Moses stretch out his hand towards the sky.  And darkness fell “that could be felt”.  Can you imagine such a darkness?  The darkness covered Egypt for three days.  The people couldn’t see anything or move about.  The Israelites had all the light they needed, however.  Pharoah tried to negotiate yet again and said the people could go to worship but they had to leave their livestock behind.  When Moses refused, Pharoah was furious and told Moses that the next time he showed his face he would die. (Exodus 10:21-29)

Black licorice represents the darkness.

Ann Kirsten

# 10 – Egyptian firstborn sons

God told Moses that one last plague would be done and then Pharoah would allow God’s people to leave.  The people prepared and gathered silver and gold from the Egyptians.  At midnight, the firstborn of all the Egyptians and all their animals would die.  (Exodus 11:1-10).

Sour Patch Kids represent the firstborns.

Ann Kirsten

Have you ever tried to eat a Sour Patch Kid?  I did and I spit it out before even a second had passed!  It represents a bitter plague indeed.

So there you have it; the ten plagues represented in candy form.  I found all the candy at the dollar store except the frogs.  After looking in four stores, I ordered the frogs online for a few dollars.

You could make a poster with the ten plagues candy, like this:

Ann Kirsten

Or, for a Sunday school class, treat bags with a sample of each candy would be fun.  Have the kids make labels listing the ten plagues (my grandson wrote this one).

Ann Kirsten

(To read further about the very first Passover, read chapter 12 of Exodus).

However you choose to do it, this is a memorable way for your kids to learn how hard it was to free the Israelites from slavery in Egypt.

For further sharing, this old spiritual, sung by Louis Armstrong, would be fun to listen to while the kids make their plague labels.

“Let My People Go…” – Louis Armstrong

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Maybe that’s why the little moments feel so special.

A warm drink before the house wakes up. A few quiet minutes in the car after drop-off. Stepping outside to soak in the crisp air before heading back to the next thing. Small pauses can help us catch our breath and remember that God is present, even in the middle of our beautifully busy and ordinary days.

If you’re looking for a simple way to add a little extra cozy to your week, here are a few fun fall drinks that go beyond the usual pumpkin spice latte.

 Honey Pear Tea

zi3000

This one feels like fall in a mug.

You’ll need:

• 1 cup brewed chamomile or herbal tea
• ¼ cup pear nectar
• 1 teaspoon honey
• Dash of cinnamon

If you can’t find pear nectar, don’t let that stop you from making the tea! A simple substitute is:

Caramel Apple Cider

Pamela D McAdams

Perfect for afternoon pick-me-ups.

You’ll need:

• 1 cup warm apple cider
• 1 tablespoon caramel sauce (Homemade caramel sauce recipe)
• Pinch of cinnamon
• Whipped cream (optional, but highly encouraged!)

Stir together and top with whipped cream for a drink that tastes like a fall festival.

Maple Vanilla Chai

Alvarez

Cozy, creamy, and surprisingly easy.

You’ll need:

• 1 chai tea bag
• 1 cup milk of choice
• 1 tablespoon maple syrup
• Splash of vanilla extract

Steep the tea in warmed milk, stir in maple and vanilla, and enjoy while pretending no one needs you for at least ten minutes.

Cinnamon Roll Steamer

Rafael Yebenes Alonso

A coffee-free treat that tastes like dessert.

You’ll need:

• 1 cup milk
• ½ teaspoon cinnamon
• ½ teaspoon vanilla
• 1 teaspoon brown sugar

Warm together on the stove and whisk until frothy.

“Come to me, all you who are weary and burdened, and I will give you rest.” – Matthew 11:28

“The Lord gives strength to his people; the Lord blesses his people with peace.” Psalm 29:11

“God is within her, she will not fall; God will help her at break of day.” Psalm 46:5

“Be strong and courageous. Do not be afraid… for the Lord your God goes with you.” Deuteronomy 31:6

“But those who hope in the Lord will renew their strength. They will soar on wings like eagles…“ Isaiah 40:31

May this Fall bring warmth to your home, peace to your heart, and plenty of reasons to pause and savor the moments God has given you.

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This content is syndicated from allmomdoes: https://purposely.com/podcasts/god-on-the-go/you-are-worth-it-on-purpose/ Find more content at God on the Go Archives - Purposely Podcasts and subscribe to the allmomdoes Podcast on Apple Podcasts, Google Podcasts, Stitcher, Spotify, and more!

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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Read more of Joanna’s contributions to AllMomDoes here.

]]> https://www.allmomdoes.com/blog/5-verses-to-turn-to-when-life-isnt-going-as-planned/feed/ 0 https://www.allmomdoes.com/blog/grandma-hobbies-and-their-health-benefits/ https://www.allmomdoes.com/blog/grandma-hobbies-and-their-health-benefits/#respond Thu, 01 Oct 2026 17:00:19 +0000 Ann Kirsten 2026-10-05T18:36:10+00:00 https://d955.cms.socastsrm.com/?p=61443 New research has found that “Grandma Hobbies” provide powerful physical and mental health benefits.  How wonderful to find something healthy that is actually fun to do (goodbye kale!).

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.

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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Read more of Ann’s contributions to AllMomDoes here.

This content is syndicated from allmomdoes: https://purposely.com/podcasts/gospel-tech/gospel-tech-faqs-what-is-gospel-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!

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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This content is syndicated from allmomdoes: https://purposely.com/podcasts/allmomdoes-podcast/im-a-psychologist-and-i-have-adhd-with-beth-capecchi/ Find more content at AllMomDoes Podcast Archives - Purposely Podcasts and subscribe to the allmomdoes Podcast on Apple Podcasts, Google Podcasts, Stitcher, Spotify, and more!