Beginner Beans

Going Back to When it All Began

2013-05-24T06:00:00.000-05:00

I started this little blog 4 1/2 years ago. Somewhere around December 28, 2008.

I didn't really have any specific intentions or goals with it. I didn't even have a name. (It was just "TrinaCressDotBlogspotDotCom." Original, I know.) I needed a public place to share my ramblings, and Myspace wasn't cutting it anymore. (That's why I have posts pre-dating 2008.)

I also wanted some way to live beyond myself. To grow into the loving Christian mother, writer, wife, neighbor that Jesus always meant me to be. And a way to include others in that journey.

Too bad I didn't realize back then what an amazing community of bloggers already existed. I sadly didn't find that out until about two years in :/

As I think about where I've been and where I'm going with this space, and really with my life, my original posts that started it all still have all sorts of relevance. Those two original posts still resonate truth of who I am and what I'm doing. And, because I didn't have any readers back then, I decided to share them with you.

I added images (because I didn't do much of that then), and made them fit with the style of my current posts. Otherwise, here they are in all their raw glory fresh from this eternal beginner...

The Two Posts That Started It All:
In my perfect world...
Journey to "Yes"

PS, That photo was taken in March 2009 when I decided I needed a profile photo. If you're thinking I looked more professional back then, I'm with ya. I worked full-time as an Enrollment Marketing Assistant for the same college I now do freelance writing for. I guess the haircut helped me fit the working mom role. At one point I even woke up at 4:45a to get my P90X workout in before work. Who was I?!

A Peek at Tomorrow's Giveaway

2013-05-22T06:00:00.000-05:00

Hey, I'm stopping in for a short and sweet note to you today. Just letting you know tomorrow is my second giveaway over at PrefoldsLove.com. I'd love for you to be a part of it!

This one is not specifically cloth diaper related. In fact, it's from a non-profit that donates 100% of proceeds. Doesn't get much better than that.

I've been brainstorming for the last four weeks on the best way to turn all my giveaways (here on Beginner Beans and over on Prefolds Love) into acts of love and service. This is my first attempt, and I'd love to hear what you think.

So, head on over to PrefoldsLove.com first thing tomorrow (Thu May 23) to take part in the giveaway. It'll be open a week. I can't wait to see what we can all do together to raise awareness for these girls that need us. (Awareness is gift we can give for free!)

Plus, of course, one of you just might win the special giveaway pictured above ;)

>>>>>

PS, I'll be back Friday for a devotional thought, and have a couple posts planned for next week to wrap up our month of Simplicity, Simplified.

Memories, Simplified

2013-05-20T06:00:00.002-05:00

The kids played at our neighborhood playground, while I read from a nearby bench. A grandma (I gleaned this from the kids calling her "grandma") observed from the other park bench.

Brylee ran around with the two older kids, while Ian contentedly played in the sand "making a pie" like his sister taught him to do. The youngest of the three, Carolina who was about Ian's age, wandered near where he excitedly held out a handful of dirt for her. A 2-year-old's etiquette at it's finest.

The grandma and I both chuckled from our benches at the sweet and simple exchange of these two innocent babes. (Innocent for the moment--Ian is usually an instigator.)

Then, I hear the grandma exclaim, "Ah, I wish I had my camera!"

A few simple words that I used to proclaim more than I care to admit, now make me cringe.

I'd say it whenever something sweet or funny happened. Anytime we enjoyed pretty scenery or a special moment with special people. Whenever Brylee did something cute, or something too good to be true that I needed evidence.

Gotta applaud the heart behind it. We have amazing digital cameras these days that quickly and easily capture a moment, so now we want to capture every moment. Because we can.

Now, I'd rather be in the moment.

I'd rather experience it with all my senses--sight, touch, taste, smell, sound--rather than through a camera lense figuring out how to capture it in a way to do the moment justice.

It's sometimes fun to try. It's fun to snap a quick picture and instantly share it online where my mom can get her grandkid fix states away. It's fun to have photos of our family outside and at home and with friends and each other--just a sampling of daily life as it is in the good ol' days.

Plus, improving phone cameras and fun filters make capturing the moment so much more artsy and gratifying. Even for us non-photographers.

But as with most areas in our life that need simplified, it's worth asking: How much is enough? More appropriately: Have we crossed over the memory card capacity into too much?

As with household items and wardrobes, we all likely have a different idea of an answer. And that's okay. I read someone's suggestion for saving around 10 photos per year for each person, and I was on board. Until I got into Instagram, or Lomogram now that I have a Windows phone. Now I'm more likely to capture and post at least 10 a month.

Still, the principles that initially struck me in that 10-photo/year idea (read about it here) have stayed with me.

Sure, I take and share quite a bit more than that. But I no longer kick myself for not having my camera. Or, now that I'm often using my phone as my camera, I no longer kick myself for not taking every picture. Or not sharing every picture I've taken. I try to only keep, post, and preserve the good ones.

Because taking a million photos of my growing kids has not helped me never forget a single moment. In fact, it's actually overwhelming often leading me to miss the moment in my efforts to preserve it.

I'm thankful to have handy lil point-and-shoot cameras that take quality photos. I'm thankful to have social media for quick and easy ways to share with all our family and friends (and the whole world-wide-web while we're being honest). I'm also thankful to put the camera away and take a moment to just be.

To lock the feel of my kids' smooth hands and cheeks in my mind. To twirl Brylee's curls in my fingers. Hearing their voices through sweet songs and prayers and laughter. Observing how they play and what they like and what they don't.

Because while I could take every picture, record every video, write down every memory and fill out hundreds of questionnaires to remember all the details of their little selves, the only person it really matters to is me. And them. And maybe Grandma. And for all those details, pictures, videos, and questionnaires just aren't enough.

Those specifics are best captured in person and stored in my God-given memory.

Where we both remember we were together in those moments, and that's what matters.

Everything else is just a sampling to remember that fact.

>>>>>

This month I'm sharing Simplicity, Simplified. See full list of posts here, and join me for another couple weeks in not over-thinking it.

If We Only Knew that These are the Good Ol' Days

2013-05-17T00:00:00.000-05:00

Something from last night's series finale of The Office struck me in a way only a comedy trimmed with truth can. I tried to remember exactly what Andy (Ed Helms' character) said, but the words in the photo above were as close as I could get.

How we always look back on some golden-lined time in the past. What we later call "the good ol' days." A time when, of course, we rarely saw the good lying all around us.

So excuse me while I take a break from my usual ramblings and simply...

...enjoy these good ol' days while they last.

The end of a thing is better than its beginning;
Do not say, “Why were the former days better than these?”
In the day of prosperity be joyful. | Ecclesiastes 7:8, 10, 14

>>>>>

Fashion, Simplified

2013-05-15T06:00:00.000-05:00

Brylee has taught me a thing or two about fashion. Okay, so she brings to light all sorts of things surprising for a five-year-old. Fashion just happens to be an area she is a natural while I... well, I often just don't care.

That said, her favorite outfit last year was a pair of skinny jeans and a black shirt. This seemed plain compared to all the other fun colors in her closet, so I asked her why these were her favorites.

Her response?

"Because of the ruffles and the buttons."

She was, of course, referring to the ruffles along the bottom and sleeves of the black shirt, and the sparkly button accents on both the shirt and the jeans. Just the right details was all that mattered to her.

She also loves tutus and fluffy skirts, and anything that moves right when she twirls. Her favorite color is pink, and she always notices when I'm wearing earrings or a necklace. (What little girl doesn't?)

But more than passing on her fancy tastes in fashion, I've learned a bit from her on simplifying. Mainly because beyond a little ruffle and a couple sparkly buttons, she's content.

She rocks pink leggings with a big hole in the knee and a too-small denim dress with a paint stain on the bottom ruffles. Not because we're overdue to go shopping (although I'm not denying that), but because it's her favorite. This outfit combines her love for ruffles, pink, and swishy dresses. And, hey, she needed to get dressed this morning and this little outfit did the job.

Okay, so that simplicity probably won't fly for long. After all, when she starts kindergarten in the fall I'm sure there will be some observant little kid that will be quick to point out her pants have a hole in the knee or that she's worn the same outfit (her favorite) twice this week. (Or maybe she'll be that blessed kid for some other kind soul.)

As much as possible, I hope she won't lose her personal flair for fashion on her own terms. This is what keeps fashion simple.

Keeping up with fashion mags, stars, our BFFs or that perfect girl we sometimes stalk online (who, me? never.), well, it's just exhausting. It causes us to lose ourselves, and grow a closet of things that we won't be taking with us into eternity. (And maybe some clothes that shouldn't even be taken into the next decade.)

Most of all, I pray she'll keep that contentment smothered in thankfulness for what she's been provided. Not just sans complaints, but with a cheerful heart.

A beautifully cheerful heart.

Now godliness with contentment is great gain. For we brought nothing into this world, and it is certain we can carry nothing out. And having food and clothing, with these we shall be content. | 1 Tim. 6:6-8

>>>>>

This month I'm sharing simplicity, simplified. See the full list of posts here, and join me in not over-thinking it.

Home, Simplified

2013-05-13T09:44:00.003-05:00

When I was 3, my family moved from our rental home to the home my parents purchased a few miles away in the next town over. The only memory I have of this little excursion is riding over to the house that was now "ours" and venturing in to the presently empty space.

My mom gave me a couple of my doll things and my glow worm sleeping bag to play with and nap while everyone else helped with the moving.

I cloudily remember arranging these precious belongings in the room that my sister and I would be sharing. I carefully rolled out my sleeping bag over the hardwood floor, and neatly tucked my baby in her cradle. The room still echoed with emptiness, yet I was content with what I had created. Little did I know so much more would be coming.

My mom, of course, had bigger plans of an actual bed and dresser, curtains, and the homemade bedspread my Grandma made for us. There would be a large rug to warm up the floor, and a special crystal lamp to light up the room from a shelf.

In all my sharing about home, I too often neglect the more important message: This world is not my home.

All the decluttering and simplifying, organizing and decorating, and making it a little bit of heaven upon earth--is nothing more than rolling a miniature sleeping bag out on a cold hardwood floor and tucking my babydoll into her little wood crib. That's all we're doing as we settle into our apartment and call it home.

Wouldn't that be a funny site from Heaven's view? Because God has planned for so much more. Days that glow with His presence, land warmed with greenery that never dies, creation as He made it to be, and a special mansion to call our own.

It's a good thing for me to remember. Simplifying my home isn't about finding perfection, or even settling into contentment until I'm numb to hoping for the future. Simplifying my home is all about looking forward to home in heaven.

As much as I enjoy and appreciate simplicity and nesting into our little space, I hope it leads me to long for home, and remember that this world ain't it.

>>>>>

This month I'm sharing simplicity, simplified. See the full list of posts here, and join me in not over-thinking it.

Comfort for Good Enough Moms // #fiveminutefriday

2013-05-10T10:41:00.001-05:00

A coffee mug at the store told me what a good mom does, but I didn't fit the mold.

Well, that's a comfort in the midst of my own self-debt.

Then, I had to wonder, who gets to decide what makes a mom a good one?

Is it my 8-year-old self when I knew my own mom was good when she selflessly shared the middle (read: crust-less, read: best) part of her sandwich?

Is it the guy at the at&t store that thanked me for being a good mom while I half-managed my kids while he set up my Mother's Day gift?

Is it the ranting from other moms on "mommy support groups" about how terrible a mom at the grocery store or on the playground was for how they managed (or didn't manage) their kids?

Who gets to decide? Because all of the conflicting messages do not make my mommying any easier, and they are in no way comforting.

And, then, maybe that's it. Maybe it's that comfort I shared about the beginning of the month. Maybe sometimes from us to our children, but mostly from God to us. The encouragement and support. The provisions to help a helpless being grow into an independent (or appropriately dependent) one.

On our behalf, it's not preceded by impossible statements like "always" and "never." It's accompanied by the comfort of God's grace. That He'll pick up our slack and make our sometimes selfish, sometimes overwhelmed, sometimes bad efforts in parenting, good enough.

I am thankful I can point my kids to someone that comforts (and parents) better than me. The true definition of good. And that's a real comfort for this tired momma.

>>>>>

Linking up for 5-minute-Friday with Lisa Jo on the word "comfort." This is also part of the encouragement I'm sharing this month for simplicity, simplified. See full list of posts here, and join me in not over-thinking it.

Mother's Day Gifts, Simplified

2013-05-08T06:00:00.000-05:00

One of the few Mother's Days I clearly remember getting something for my mom was when I was 12. (I know, I feel horrible about it. I blame that we didn't do much for holidays.)

My sister and I had spent a couple weeks traveling along the East coast (Kansas to Virginia and down to Florida) with my grandparents in their motor home. We would be meeting back up with our family in Georgia for my brother's high school graduation. We had a blast with Grandma and Grandpa, and saw and learned so much. But I looked forward to being with my parents again.

We would see them on Mother's Day weekend. My sister and I wanted to do something really special for mom, so we searched for something we knew she loved: Liz Claiborne perfume. (The stuff that originated the year I was born.) She probably already had a bottle not yet used (and maybe even had moved on from it), but we wanted to get her something special. And that was special.

She seemed surprised and thankful. But after-the-fact, I realize we could have been a little more original or at least intuitive. And maybe as mothers (or whoever it is receiving the gift), we could all be a little more open about what we want and need and make this gift-giving thing easier on others.

We know it's the thought that counts. But aspiring-minimalists also know that those thoughts often translate to guilt in keeping things we don't want or need. Likely not the giver's intention, but a common by-product of gift-giving nonetheless.

As Mother's Day approaches, here are some simple ideas and categories that might lead you to that perfect gift (playing loose with the descriptor perfect) that mom (or sister or daughter or good friend or mentor or neighbor) just might use and love.

Finding the Perfect Minimalist Gift

What you may not realize is that minimalists (and attempting minimalists) are actually pretty easy to buy for. Mainly because, they often quit (or at least slow down) buying for themselves, while still having plenty they want, need and use.

Here's how to get started finding that perfect gift...

1 | Listen. Or look at her Pinterest boards. And look for ideas in one of the following categories: reusable, consumable, frequently used, luxury (wouldn't buy herself), want, need, reading material, experience, charitable. See examples below.

2 | Whatever can be homemade, secondhand, fair trade, or raise funds for a good cause in these categories--even better. At least for this momma ;)

3 | Give and detach. There is always a possibility that a gift will lose it's appeal, become outdated, or no longer fit with the receiver's wants/needs. Don't put guilt on the receiver to forever keep a gift.

Minimalist Mother's Day Gift Ideas

Reusable

Unless you're Bea Johnson and already have all the reusable products you need, we all could use reusable alternatives for our disposable products. Does she have unpaper towels/cloth napkins, zippered snack bags, a water cup, mesh produce bags, or fold-up shopping bags? Reusable products are great packaged up into a gift and likely would be used again and again. (I love the large Starbucks cup my husband got for my birthday.)

Consumable

This category is great for minimalists, those you don't know well, and anyone you're not sure what to get. It's also a perfect area to give handmade, if you're opting for that route. Candles, bath salts, chocolate or baked treats (all with or without recipe tags) are just a few ideas. If the receiver especially enjoys green goods, then even homemade cleaning products packaged up nicely might be a special gift.

Hobby or Frequently Used

We all have frequently used items for hobbies or otherwise, that either ware out or get used up quickly. For me, this is journals. I write everyday and have a specific type (spiral-bound without lines) that I use and wouldn't mind a couple back-ups at the ready.

Luxury

Everybody has something they would love to have (whether need or want), but is a little more extravagant than they feel comfortable buying for themselves. For me, this is woodwick candles. They're a special treat that I don't normally buy for myself. A massage or spa day, gift card to a fancy restaurant, or leather bag (instead of canvas) might also fit in this category. It's a good idea to be sure of their feelings on the gift, or even get their input before purchasing. (Unless you have a gift receipt and make it clear they're free to exchange it as they wish.)

Want

This is probably the largest category, but one of the hardest to nail down. Pinterest and past conversations are helpful here. The subcategories here are endless. Women everywhere (even extremely minimalist ones) have a clothing item, home good, accessory or other item they really want. If you're not sure, then avoid this category because if it's not top of their wish list, these are the items that would likely end up in the outbox. Something in my wishlist that most wouldn't guess: air filtering plants.

Need

Does she need an upgrade on a phone, camera or computer? Maybe she needs a good case for an electronic she already owns? An aspiring minimalist or strict budget-keeper might appreciate a replacement for a worn-out item, or needed kitchen utensils, reusables, or homegoods that would benefit the whole family.

Reading Material

I made this a category all its own because even "non-readers" have something they'd love to read--even if it's a subscription to a favorite magazine. (Perhaps e-versions for the green-conscious?) A "to-read" Pinterest board would be the ideal place to look. If the receiver is a library-goer, then find a book that's not available through the local library. Several books on my list aren't available at the library, and I would love to get them to read and pass on. (This is also a great category for regifting.)

Experience

What is something the receiver doesn't get to enjoy often enough? Maybe a massage, facial or spa day. A photo session with her family (and no complaining). A family outing to the zoo, a movie or a pottery painting session. Even coupons like an at-home massage, day off cleaning, or laundry pass. You can plan it for her special day, or give her a certificate for a future time.

Charitable

Is there something dear to the receiver's heart that she'd love to contribute to? It could be a donation in her name and tell her about it (I'd save this for those you know would appreciate it), or buy a scarf or bag or t-shirt that donates a percentage of (or all) proceeds to that cause. All sorts of purchases can be found to benefit all sorts of needs.

>>>>>

This month I'm sharing simplicity, simplified. See full list of posts here, and join me in not over-thinking it.

Family Time, Simplified

2013-05-06T12:12:00.000-05:00

As Daniel gets ready to head out of town, our family spends a little time together. We're all in the car when I'm briefly thinking about what to share in this post, so I decide to ask each person: What is your favorite thing to do with the family?

Brylee: "Um, painting."
Daniel: "Hang out. With the family."
Ian: "House. Mommy and daddy house." (He has a big proud grin that I asked him, too, and he answered.)
Brylee: "Okay, now ask me again!"
Me: "Brylee, what's your favorite thing to do with the family?"
Brylee: "Play games! Like hide-and-seek!"

I know, these answers aren't very insightful. I did put my family on the spot, after all.

But that moment perfectly exemplified quality family time. Yes, in a car on our way to run a couple errands together before Daniel leaves town for a few days. Sometimes, we each space out in those moments. But other times, like that moment, we take the opportunity to engage.

The kids tell knock-knock jokes for days. (Ian's not so bad with the jokes himself.) Sometimes I interject asking for each person's input on their favorite fill-in-the-blank or what they love most about this-or-that. Daniel and I point out houses or yards we do or don't like, and dream together. (The kids have started speculating on houses we pass, which most likely explains Ian's answer above.)

Whether we're out running errands, playing at our nearby playground, or lazing around the house, our favorite family moments are all similar in that they're simple. We laugh with each other, or exhaustively tolerate each other. We give eye contact to show we're listening, or physical contact in the form of hugs, cuddles or wrestles.

It happens when we simply eat lunch together when Daniel's in town (our family "dinner" of the day). It happens when we sing "I'm too young" and pray together before the kids go to bed. And when we do chores together and Daniel turns it into a game or competition.

Togetherness happens when we enjoy a Sabbath afternoon nature documentary or visit the bison. Or when we have a family date night that simply means we skip the gym and spend an hour together before the kids go to bed. It even happens when we make errands an opportunity to talk and enjoy each other's company.

Brylee shares things she's learning, Ian acts as Brylee's shadow evoking a few laughs from us, and Daniel and I get to relax and soak in the moment.

It's almost never anything fancy (unless we're inspired to create a brown bag date night, dress up the living room with white lights for pizza night, or unleash our inner child for a theme). Other than those few themed family date nights, I can count on one hand the times we've painted together, did pre-planned Easter-countdown worships, and went "all out" for family time.

Sure, I sometimes wish we did that more. If only there were enough energy, creativity, and motivation in me to do so.

But the moments that have really mattered, are the recurring ones. The ones so simple, easy, natural that they didn't take any additional planning or creativity or time on Pinterest.

All they require is simply... us.

Our time. Attention. Our personalities and presence. In this moment, together.

And that is our family time, simplified.

>>>>>

This month I'm sharing encouragement for simplicity simplified. See full list of posts here, and join me in not over-thinking it.

Simplicity, Simplified

2013-05-03T06:00:00.000-05:00

After launching my new cloth diaper blog, I quickly transitioned to scratching it all, then salvaging it with a new name and new purpose--all in the matter of hours. Of course this happens while husband is home sick for a couple days, and winter made one final (I hope) appearance in May (!) which happens to lead to full-moon type behavior from the kids.

It's moments like this--when our family isn't well, our home is a mess, and my "work" in all its forms continues to grow--that I want to quit technology, give up pursuing work I enjoy, and throw our stuff over our third floor railing. These are the moments I long for simplicity.

I'm not talking about the simplicity you find in the next minimalism book. (Although, we all know I love a good minimalist-inspired read.) In these moments, I don't want to research the next right steps to declutter, take on a new project, or add one more thing to my to-do list.

I simply want simplicity. In all true-ness of the word. And I want it now, before I go insane.

You know, the actual definitions of "being easy to understand or do" and "being plain or natural."

I'm talking about simplicity, simplified. Not Americanized, the way we've turned it into an abstract thing that takes special skills or abilities or requirements to pursue. How we're so far removed from that allusive goal to "simplify."

We like to think certain people are prone to need simplicity or adapt to it better than others. A friend lives simply with her fam on their own little piece of country-side. My brother and sister-in-law actually chose to sell 90% of their possessions to remodel an airstream and live in it. And my own OCD tendencies make simplicity necessary before I break down in all-out depression.

We like to think these are unique cases. But I think this is a misconception. Because, we all need simplicity and we all have access to it. Not ten years from now when the kids aren't so needy, or five years from now when I finally finish decluttering every nook and crevice of our apartment, or even next week when I can finally check one particularly looming task off my list.

We have access to simplicity today.

In this moment, we have the opportunity to pause. To count our blessings. To focus on the Kingdom. To thank the King for His provisions. And in these simple acts, take on Kingdom Contentment and simply live.

Kingdom contentment--that's what I'm finding is the answer to a happier, simpler life now. It's what brought Paul to write about rejoicing in all things while he was in prison (Phil. 4:4). It's what moved David to praise God for bringing him to a "spacious place" while he was pursued by his enemies (Ps. 18:19).

It's what empowers me to refuse, to rethink my needs, and not add one more thing to my home to declutter. It's what encourages me to pause and enjoy this moment, before my kids aren't kids anymore. It's what reminds me to ignore the mess long enough to thank God for a home to mess up. It's what energizes me to love when I feel like there's nothing in me to give.

Just stopping in His presence to know that He is God. He trumps anything that overwhelms, confuses, stresses or distracts me. A pause in His presence is all the simplifying focus I need to refresh and live simply by Him and for His glory.

>>>>>

This month I'm sharing more encouragement for simplicity simplified--with focus on Kingdom contentment. I hope you'll join me in not over-thinking it.

May Day Home Giveaway (closed)

2013-05-01T06:00:00.000-05:00

Congrats, Nicole! You are the winner! Contact me at beginnerbeans//at//gmail.com by May 15 to claim your prize.

I remember when my sister and I discovered May Day. I don't remember how... maybe through mom or school. All I remember is the incessant paper basket making and decorating, and picking flowers (or what some call weeds) to fill our miniature baskets. Then, leaving them at our neighbors doors, ringing the bell and running away.

It was such a joy to put thought and effort into bringing joy into someone else's day.

And I get to repeat that on some level through this month's giveaway--a May Day basket of sorts. (Or maybe even a Mother's Day re-gift?)

This month's giveaway is a home-themed May Day gift including a "What I love most about my home..." painted canvas and the book Happier at Home by Gretchen Rubin.

Not included in this giveaway: A basket ;)

Enter this May Day giveaway one of three ways...

(one entry given for each item completed; leave a comment for each)

1 | Answer the following question in the comments below: What do you love most about your home?

2 | Share this giveaway (or another of your favorite Beginner Beans posts) on Twitter, Facebook, or Pinterest, and let me know that you've done so in the comments below with a link.

3 | Subscribe to the monthly-ish news + updates e-mail >> here. Let me know that you've done so in the comments below. (Hey, this is an automatic entry for those already subscribed if you leave a comment saying so :)

Note: to reduce shipping costs, this giveaway is open to continental U.S. shipping addresses only. Thank you for understanding.

This giveaway will be open through next Tuesday (May 7). The winner will be announced in this post next Wednesday (May 8) and will have one week to claim the prize.

Be sure to check this post Wed May 8 to see if this gift "basket" is yours.

Congrats, Nicole! You are the winner! Contact me at beginnerbeans//at//gmail.com by May 15 to claim your prize.

Thank you all for contributing!

>>>>>>

Dear Reader | May 2013

2013-04-29T06:00:00.000-05:00

giveaway (closed) | 1

simplicity, simplified | 3

family time, simplified | 6
mom's day gifts, simplified | 8
comfort for moms | 10

home, simplified | 13
fashion, simplified | 15
the good ol' days | 17

memories, simplified | 20

finances, simplified | 29

coming in june | 31

Dear Reader,

I've noticed when people want to make a point of how unpopular they are, they'll use the familiar line, "My mom thinks I'm great." Similarly, the common blog "success" story often starts with, "In the beginning, only my mom and my best friend read my blog."

It makes sense, because our moms care and think we're great even when others don't. But there's a little more to it than that.

On one particular day, I was overwhelmed with all the details of life. A passionate little boy throwing temper tantrums, a bored little girl on a never-ending quest to be entertained, and typical challenges of writing for pay, blogging for fun, and managing home.

I wondered if that fun part--the blogging for myself--mattered. You know, should I keep blogging if it's only just for me? When I click "Publish" and I'm returned with crickets and cranky children, it doesn't always seem worth it.

Then, I read a message from my mom. She had me in tears encouraging me on my writing and my blogging. (And I hadn't told her about the doubt.) Not false hope or instant popularity or anything to include in a resume. Just simple, honest, heart-felt encouragement. The kind only my mom can give.

And the great news is this: No one is excluded from that kind of motherly comfort...

As one whom his mother comforts,
So I will comfort you;
And you shall be comforted
in Jerusalem. | Is. 66:13

I pray that promise encourages you this Mother's Day.

Happy May!

-Trina

PS, Would love to welcome you in the group that receives the monthly-ish news + updates e-mail sent out the end of each month. Sign up >> here.

Let's Comfort Each Other with These Words, Friends

2013-04-26T23:04:00.001-05:00

Friends...

Guess what. That stuff in the Bible about the Lord Himself descending from heaven? That's for real.

No, seriously, it's gonna happen. With a shout, the voice of an archangel, and the trumpet of God.

And those people we know that have died (or the ones on all those news reports we can't stop obsessing over)--the ones that died from tragic, terrible things, or unjust ways, or even simply from old age. They're going to rise to meet Him first.

Then, the rest of us--you know, you and I, if He comes now--we will be caught up together with them.

In the clouds.

To meet the Lord in the air.

And, just like that, we will be with Him.
...always.

When we feel worrisome or fearful or sad or even downright paranoid, or when we feel too comfortable (maybe especially when we feel too comfortable), let's comfort each other with these words.

Okay, friends?

Okay.

>>>>>

1 Thessalonians 4:16-18

Linking up with Lisa Jo Baker for 5-minute Friday. I detoured a bit from writing about the prompt "Friends," to share a piece of encouragement for my friends.

How to Color Match in PicMonkey (and make your own color palette)

2013-04-24T06:00:00.000-05:00

Just when you thought Earth Day was over, I sneak in another green post. Earth month is all April long, after all. However, I saved this one for after Earth Day because it's less about the environment, and more about the actual color green. Or any color really.

Today, I'm sharing how to color-match and use the colors you really want in PicMonkey.

I was a true beginner lost in the color palette, struggling to find the colors I liked before finally giving up and choosing blindly. Until my sister-in-law (airstream dweller, teacher blogger and craftivity-creator extraordinaire) showed me color-matching in PicMonkey. Oh, the possibilities! And that's when I finally found the precise color palette I used to redesign Beginner Beans, and chose colors to brand my newest blog Squishy Tush.

Color-matching isn't only helpful in branding and designing a blog, it's also helpful in creating holiday cards, matching overlays to a photo, and limitless other possibilities.

So, let's get started.

Keep reading »

9 Steps to Green Your Everyday Living

2013-04-22T06:00:00.000-05:00

Happy Earth Day!

I am excited to share with you a few fun green-living resources from Beginner Beans and elsewhere, along with an opportunity to linkup your own green-living post.

First, let's talk some simple steps to green your everyday.

Originally, I considered this my "greenest things we do" post. Then, I realized sharing the principals that helps us make green choices seemed a little more beneficial than focusing on our specifics. I mean, really, what's a guy to do with my "greening your period" post? That's a pretty green choice I've made that has nothing to do with him (or even some girls).

Instead, we'll use the "teach a man to fish" idea and help you grow your own "greenest things we do" list.

9 steps to greening your everyday living...

These steps might look very similar to the refuse, reduce, reuse, recycle, rot mantra of Zero Waste Home. Let me clear that up for you: It is. This is what those options might look like in practice.

1 | Do without.

This is that "refusing" business I shared about last week. It's hard. But it makes the biggest impact. Learn to do without. It prevents wasted resources in production and waste when you realize you didn't need that thing in the first place.

What doing without might look like: Stop using q-tips; say no to freebies; asking for gifts of experiences instead of things; ditch the shampoo + conditioner; be content with what you have; make new outfits out of what's already in your closet.

2 | Use less.

If refusing isn't an option, then consider using less. Reducing our consumption is the next best thing to refusing.

What reducing might look like: Put a brick in the toilet to use less water at each flush; take shorter showers; meal-plan and make smaller portions of food; minimize the makeup bag and have no-makeup days; use a smaller rotation of things like towels and socks; unplug electronics when not in use or over night.

3 | Look into reusable.

If something is used repeatedly, then it's a good idea to find a reusable alternative rather than it turning into waste after each use. (Although, there might still be a time and place for disposable.)

What reusing might look like: Have a stock of reusable grocery bags, napkins, glass storage containers, water bottles in the kitchen; use a diva cup instead of tampons; bring your own mug to get coffee; cloth diaper your baby.

4 | Buy consumables in bulk.

Things like cosmetics and food are often packaged in a way that creates waste. Consider buying these in bulk (as they're available), and even using reusable packaging to do so.

What buying bulk might look like: Buy rice, beans, oats, flour, cookies, dried fruit, cereals, even soaps and non-food items in the bulk section of a local store; use Bea's new bulk locator app to save your fav bulk locations or find some new ones.

5 | Buy consumables with recyclable packaging.

If the consumable food and cosmetics you need are not available in bulk, then choose products with recyclable packaging.

What buying recyclable materials might look like: Seasonings in glass containers; hair products in plastic #1 or #2; products in cardboard boxes.

6 | Make or grow your own.

Making or growing your own is all about being resourceful and forgoing "easy" for what's best. This gets at the heart of green-living.

What making/growing your own might look like: Grow your own tomatoes or herbs or a whole garden; make a little girls skirt or dress out of a shirt you no longer wear; slow cook dry beans into your own chili; bake your own muffins; make a yummy green smoothie instead of going out for ice cream.

7 | Buy secondhand or borrow.

When we purchase things secondhand instead of new, it extends the life of that item, keeps it out of the landfill, saves us money, and saves the resources going into making new items.

What buying secondhand or borrowing might look like: Make a list of needed clothing items (remember #1 above) and check thrift stores periodically until you find what you need; search Craigslist and Facebook selling groups for household items, cars, etc.; ask around to borrow someone else's if it's an occasional use or seasonal item (i.e., tent or waffle iron).

8 | Extend its life.

Whether it's food or a piece of clothing, extending the life of what you have is important in not adding to the landfills and preserving resources.

What extending life might look like: Freeze leftovers so they won't go bad before eating them; repair a hole in a piece of clothing; save up to purchase better quality that will last longer.

9 | Dispose with care.

When it's finally time to let go of something, we should be considerate of how we do so.

What disposing with care might look like: Donate or sell clothing or home goods with use left in them; Freecycle products to help them go directly to someone that wants them; bag up clothing with holes and stains and label "rags" to donate to Goodwill; compost food products; recycle paper, glass, cans.

Conclusion | One change at a time.

Hope this list gets you started. You don't have to start where anyone else is. Just note that one thing that seems to create the most waste in your home, and find solutions to change it. One change at a time, one person at a time, makes a real difference!

Finally, a few green resources for you. Then, linkup with your own!

Their links...

1 | zero waste home tips
2 | 40 ways to go greener at home... besides just recycling
3 | non-toxic home cleaning
4 | can shopping save the world? (6 min. video)

My links...

Your links...

Linkup your green-living related post, past or present, below.

When you link-up, remember to...
>> Keep your post relevant to today's topic.
>> Link here in your post. If you'd like, get the button here.
>> Visit the person who linked up before you and leave 'em a comment.

Jump | 5-min friday with lisa jo

2013-04-20T11:17:00.002-05:00

Ever wonder why adults quit jumping?

I mean, my 2-year-old does it all the time. He's in love with this concept that his legs can not only walk, they can actually empower him to leave the ground. And he looks so proud every time.

Adults, however, seem a little too knowledgeable about this thing called gravity. It gets old jumping and always returning to the ground. We'd rather fly! But we know that's not really an option on our own. So we stay grounded. We no longer jump.

And in that simple conclusion, we don't put our trust in the One that gives us wings like eagles. We forget what He empowers us to do. We avoid the possibility that if we gave it our all, He just might move us to fly.

Or not. But that's not really for us to question, is it?

We are simply called to have faith. The audacity to move our little legs in a springing upward motion, and leave the rest to Him. To His power. To His will. To the slightest possibility He would defy gravity on our behalf.

That's not too much to ask the Creator of that little force, is it?

I'm learning His force is greater. And with that, I will give myself over to the child-like joy of faith. One hopeful jump at at time.

>>>>>

Linking up with Lisa-Jo Baker for 5-minute-friday. Five minutes to write on one word, then post the first-ish draft--brought to light something all too familiar to me as I get ready for (what feels like to me) a big jump coming up soon.

How to Save Money on Groceries

2013-04-17T06:00:00.000-05:00

So far in our journey to debt freedom I've shared our debt-free plan, our budget, and our cash categories.

Today, I'm sharing a little more about how we save money on groceries. Because a penny saved is a penny earned, right?

Recently, a friend said she noticed our "incredibly low grocery bill" on one of my recent posts. We budget $100/week and can often spend around $75/week. I've talked about it some here and here. Then, she asked how we keep it so low.

The day she asked that we had spent $120 on groceries and household essentials (things like laundry detergent, toilet paper and cosmetics are included in our grocery budget). That's pretty high for us. But two things came to mind: 1. $120 for some families is actually pretty low, and 2. looking at why it was higher is a good indicator of what things keep it down the other weeks.

Here's what I noticed that keeps our grocery bill down...

Grocery Money-Saving Tip #1 | Limit snacks.

I generally try not to buy too many snacks because I don't feel like the kids need them (thanks to Bringing Up Bebe and the French's anti-snack tradition) and we eat them too quickly. It adds up when I buy granola bars, wheat thins, graham crackers, gold fish, etc. (which I did that week). It's better if I can limit this to a couple cracker options and fruit.

Grocery Money-Saving Tip #2 | Shop when full.

Such a simple thing, but when I've just eaten I always stick to the list and make better choices. When I'm hungry, everything sounds good and feels like a need (i.e., a full stock of crackers).

Grocery Money-Saving Tip #3 | Make a meal plan and list, and stick to it.

Meal-planning, making a detailed shopping list, and sticking to it play a huge part in keeping our bill low. I made a meal plan and list that week, but I added extra things (see "shop when full" :)

Grocery Money-Saving Tip #4 | Plan simple meals.

Our cheapest weeks, by far, are when we eat simple, few-ingredient meals. A box of whole wheat pasta and a jar of sauce is cheaper (and easier) than the fancier homemade sauces and pasta dishes (yet healthier than Kraft mac n cheese). Right now I'm aiming for a balance of healthy enough while staying cheap. We eat a lot of the same stuff, maybe even too often: homemade chilli + cornbread, haystacks, beans and rice, rice and curry, pasta + sauce, tacos, etc. For suppers we have sandwiches and smoothies (fits in with our evenings at the gym--when we go).

Grocery Money-Saving Tip #5 | Rely on staples.

That week we were out of some of our go-to items: beans, rice, coconut oil, frozen fruit, etc. Usually our first week of the month is a little higher because we restock on these items, then the rest of the weeks are cheaper because we already have these items on hand for easy and healthy meals.

Grocery Money-Saving Tip #6 | Stock up only on the always used/versatile items.

That said, we don't "stock up" on things. We only buy what we need for the week. Except for things like baking supplies, beans, rice, pasta, bread, smoothie supplies. Those are items we use every single week, don't go bad quickly, and can easily become a meal if we delay going shopping again for a day or two.

Those are the primary things that help us save money. (And, when not followed, the reasons we go over budget.)

After sharing these with Nicole, she replied with two things that changed and really affected their budget:

1 | She started planning simple meals (#4 above). She said the more complex meals didn't get made, and the ingredients for them would go to waste.

2 | After going back to school, her mom offered to do her grocery shopping to help out with her family responsibilities. This means she needed to make a specific list, and her mom stuck to it (#3 above). Someone else isn't likely to make impulse buys for you. We could all use that kind of accountability! For our budgets and our health.

See Nicole's meal-planning tips here and her post on using leftovers here.

What makes you go over budget on groceries?

PS, Happy birthday to my big brother, Nick! The man behind Veggie Meal-Maker and a pro on saving money on groceries :)

Linked up with Dollie for Everything Frugal.

40 Days without TV

2013-04-15T06:00:00.000-05:00

Our family recently powered down the TV, and kept it off (mostly) for 40 days. This was in part the "pruning" I talked about in this Lent post, and the fasting I mentioned in this New Year post. The idea was also brewing in this 100 things instead of TV post.

I am so happy we finally did it. We powered down the TV and got a glimpse of our lives without it. While it was in many ways difficult (unfortunately), any challenges led to a positive and better way to live.

For example, while the TV was off...

...there were more messes, while the kids played with their toys;
...there were some ripped pages in books, while the kids spent a lot more time reading;
...there was more quiet, and the kids filled it with their laughter and play;
...there were more fights, while the kids learned love and perseverance;
...there was room for my heart to feel lonely, and room to bring it before the Lord in prayer;
...there was more boredom and more creativity;
...there was more movement and interaction, more focus on God's Word without it getting washed out, more productivity and more rest, more imagination and more conversation.

And that was all just in the first five days!

Overall, I was simply left with this thought...

It is good for me to draw near to God;
I have put my trust in the Lord God,
That I may declare all Your works. | Ps. 73:28

Turning off TV (or other distractions, for that matter), gives me space to draw near to God. It leaves me room to actively put my trust in Him (instead of just saying it). And it opens space to see and declare His incredible works in my life.

Why do I ever bother turning it on?!

Keep reading »

If You Feel Like Quitting Church, Read This First

2013-04-12T06:00:00.000-05:00

Wanting to write a few words about a life-changing book like Irresistible Revolution is a little like my tone-deaf self sharing a favorite song by singing it--it just doesn't do the music justice. The most I can coherently get out is this: Just read it.

Much of my loss of words (or failing at fitting them all into a single blog post) has something to do with the story God seems to be writing into my life right now. And how the words shared by Shane in this book fit together with several other books and everything I'm reading in God's Word. So many thoughts and feelings, revelations and ideas for change.

It's been a long time coming, but it's finally culminating in action. Slowly.

I used to say I'd never leave the church. Seems like a reasonable vow, right? As long as my church's beliefs coincide with what I've found in the Bible, there's simply no reason to leave. I most often saw people leave over "hurt feelings," and that seemed petty to me.

Then, I got older. My own quiet moments with God slowly and steadily awakened my faith and opened my eyes to new possibilities.

You mean love was meant to be courageous and messy and spread beyond the neat walls of church? You mean we're called to more than our cushy lives lived for people like us? You mean we're all meant to be missionaries and that means more than being nice to my neighbors and raising Godly children?

One of the first times this started really hitting home for me I cried (and I don't make a habit of crying). Thinking of all this passion renewed or newly discovered in comparison to the complacency of church made me mourn. I couldn't keep this faith alive in "that place." I discovered love outside of the church, and it seemed the only way to keep it alive was also outside the church.

I wasn't necessarily intentional about quitting church. I knew I wanted something more and dreamed up ideas of a home church--a group of friends that would spend "church" serving the homeless, then eat together and dive into God's Word together. An accountability group for courageous discipleship.

Before thinking too much more about this, attending church faded naturally into the background. Sickness (several rounds of it for our whole family), company, bad weather and travels kept us away most weeks. When we went, I felt fidgety. Like I didn't belong there. Like I knew we're all called to more and that wasn't it.

I didn't realize fully that this was happening, until my five-year-old mentioned it. (She has a way of bringing my flaws to their proper light.) She casually told someone something like "We don't go to church anymore." As I gasped, she clarified, "...when Dad's not home."

Which is true, I don't brave church alone with two kids when Daniel's gone. But lately, I hadn't made much of an effort for any of it. I didn't want to be there. And when I went, I didn't feel like I belonged.

I mean, Christians should already know everything God's been revealing about love and the poor and our purpose. So why did everyone smile and chit chat like showing up was all that was required of them?

That negativity is when I realized I wasn't any better. All my self-righteous views were fatal for me if all they did was keep me from church.

So, I dreamed up what a solution might look like. Based on my new dreams and desires of more fully following Christ, what would church be?

I thought it would involve courageous love and getting out of comfort zones. It would involve volunteering together and encouraging each other in this odd way of living. It would include diving into God's Word and discovering these truths together.

But it would always circle back around to love in action. Loving and caring for the poor, orphans and widows. Feeding the hungry, and clothing the naked. Speaking for the voiceless. Meeting them face-to-face on a regular basis, and in that simple act, meeting Jesus.

I corralled some friends to try it out. We'd volunteer at the local homeless shelter (I'm a newbie to volunteering--that seemed like the most logical place to start). We'd arrange for our kids to be cared for. Then we'd eat lunch together and study God's Word in light of having already put it into action.

These rockstar friends entertained the idea, and I tried not to get discouraged at their reluctance. If someone had suggested this a couple years ago, I likely would of had the same hesitations.

Then, one gloomy Sabbath, we did it. We served food at a local shelter. We met some of the incredible people that make these meals happen for hundreds of people everyday. We saw the faces of parents simply trying to care for their kids. I held my breath as I served them up beef and potatoes.

I didn't want to leave. Nothing miraculous happened. But I somehow felt the Kingdom of God was more likely to show up there than it was in my church.

Keep reading »

When Going Green is Counter-Culture | how to refuse

2013-04-10T06:00:00.000-05:00

As popular as "going green" has become, most of us aren't willing to do the one thing that would make the most difference: Refuse.

Buy some fun, earthy recycled products? Yes. Buy secondhand, or donate and recycle instead of throwing away? Sure. Maybe even look into where products are made and choosing sustainable materials and transparent companies. Why not?

But not buying anything? Replace purchasing with... nothing? Make do with what we have, deny our wants, maybe even rethink our needs? That's just too far. And too counter-cultural. It requires too much sacrifice.

And, yet, it's still the number one solution to the growing wastelands, the booming storage industry, and our cluttered homes and lives. Denying what we want for the greater good--of our environment, the health of our families, and the lives of others.

But, how do we do it? How do we actually say "no" and refuse the things we don't need and maybe even some of the things we think we "need"? How do we train ourselves to be different and be okay, even happy, with that?

I don't know.

But I want to know, and I'm willing to get a little counter-culture to find the answer. Because I'm positive it's not found in the new season of home goods at Target. (I wish it was. Have you seen 'em? Yellows and light woods and earthy prints with silvery metals. My heart skipped a beat when I raced passed on my way to pick up some baby wipes.)

I'm pretty sure these less popular ideas and ways of living are a little closer to how we make refusing (and it's green effects) a part of our everyday...

Keep reading »

Beginner Links to Grow | healthy eating

2013-04-09T06:00:00.000-05:00

Hello, fellow beginner! Three things I've hoped to add to this beginner space:
1 | links to my favorite beginner resources around the web,
2 | links to posts from Beginner Beans' archives, and
3 | an opportunity for you to link up from your corner of the web.

I'm excited to bring this all together with the Beginner Links to Grow linkup. Go here >> to learn more about this linkup or to grab the button.

This week, I'm putting together a few of my favorite healthy eating links and resources...

Their links...

1 | double dark chocolate vegan muffins -- made these for our church's mom's cafe, and they're delicious
2 | banana-free green smoothies -- because not everyone loves bananas in their smoothies like me
3 | how to make almond milk -- haven't tried this yet, but it looks so easy
4 | vegan tomato basil cream pasta -- so delicious, and non-vegan approved
5 | spicy thai noodles -- such a great meal, but don't put in all the spice

My links...

6 | confessions of a picky-eater -- yours truly is still a recovering picky-eater
7 | vegan enchiladas -- who knew vegan enchiladas could be so good and picky-eater friendly
8 | our monthly meal plan -- from our family to yours, access to our month of recipes and menus
9 | green smoothies for the reluctant -- tips for getting started, especially if you're reluctant
10 | edible cookie dough -- for all those times people judged me for eating cookie dough

Your links...

Link up your healthy-eating related post, past or present, below.

When you link-up, remember to...
>> Keep your post relevant to today's topic.
>> Link here in your post. If you'd like, get the button here.
>> Visit the person who linked up before you and leave 'em a comment.

Easy Green Smoothie for the Reluctant Beginner

2013-04-08T06:00:00.000-05:00

Green smoothies are easy-peasy, and taste good, too! But when you're a beginner, both are hard to believe. Easy? How, when greens are so foreign? Taste good? Yeah, right. I doubt that!

Stick with me for a minute and let's see if I can prove those two points for ya ;) First, a recipe for my favorite fruity green smoothie of all-time. I created it last year when our fam started eating vegan at home for my Meal Management March resolution.

Then, a few green smoothie tips for beginners as you brave your own recipes.

Easy Green Smoothie

5-7 frozen whole strawberries
5-7 frozen peach slices
1 ripe banana (brown spots on the peel are even better)
1 handful spinach (or other greens)
1 cup favorite milk alternative
preferred "extras" optional (i.e., nuts, oats, agave or other sweetener)

1 | Add all ingredients to blender.
2 | Blend until smooth. Color will be slightly brown or green-tinted depending on amount of greens added.
3 | Pour and enjoy!

I double everything to make enough for the whole fam. To make a little more for an extra serving, I increase these amounts by adding extra frozen fruit, some ice and more milk (but only one banana).

Getting Started with Green Smoothies

Green smoothies can be intimidating at first. Especially if you're not much into greens or making your own smoothies. Here are some ideas for easing in...

Beginner Green Smoothie Tip #1 | Find your favorite fruit combination.

When you're getting started, first find a fruit combination you love in a smoothie. Maybe something peachy, or tropical, or berries? This is important, because if you don't like the fruit combo, then adding greens won't make it any better.

Beginner Green Smoothie Tip #2 | Add a few greens.

If you're nervous about drinking a smoothie that tastes green, then start with less greens (kale and spinach are popular choices). Maybe just a few leaves to start, or a small handful if you're brave. Once you realize how good that tastes, then try more and more until you're drinking a vibrant green smoothie and hardly noticing there's actual greens in it.

Beginner Green Smoothie Tip #3 | Choose a ripe banana.

I use bananas in all my smoothies because, when they're ripe, they act as a natural sweetener. If the peel is starting to brown--even better! These make the sweetest, most delicious smoothies.

Beginner Green Smoothie Tip #4 | Brave some protein.

I like a little texture in my smoothie from grape nuts, oats or nuts, which can also add protein and mix to create a perfect protein. My main man, however, does not like added texture. Find a fruit combo you love, then throw a few extras in and see what you think. Just make sure you blend it up good enough and don't add too much. Flax seed, wheat germ and chia seeds are other ways to add variety.

Beginner Green Smoothie Tip #5 | Go beyond the fruit.

I've already shared my all time favorite recipe for a chocolate peanut butter smoothie. It's my frappe-replacing healthy indulgence. And... it's good with greens in it too! I was hesitant. Fruit with greens made sense to me; peanut butter and greens did not. But I added some in, and it's good! So don't be afraid to try greens in things that sound a little odd--you might be pleasantly surprised.

Now get started creating your own delicious green smoothies!

For more information on the awesomeness of green smoothies, check out Jadah and Jen's Simple Green Smoothies site. Love the community they're growing there!

High Five for Friday! Er, Sunday?

2013-04-07T13:21:00.001-05:00

Hello, friend! Checking in a couple days late on my post for Friday. Just when I was counting my blessings for Spring weather and a (finally) well family, my main man and girly both got strep! Let me tell ya, this family is ready for some smooth-sailing days.

This week, I'm joining Lauren From My Grey Desk for her High Five for Friday link-up. I'm excited to join in to count my blessings and refocus on some Godly contentment!

Here we go, my top-5 highlight from this last week...

1 | Family time with my favorite sister and her fam for Easter, and with these >> awesome people before they load up their airstream and head back to the Northwest. (PS, Check out Shae's Family Fun Friday post on Family Sponge, and they're generous giveaway that's open until Wednesday!)

2 | SquishyTush.com (my work-in-progress scheduled to officially launch on Earth Day April 22), has page links! Still working on transferring over content and finishing pages. But excited to see progress.

3 | It's Earth Month! Where my favorite color and preferred lifestyle collide into one beautifully inspiring month.

4 | After sickness and company and more sickness, I finally made some progress on a writing project. Meanwhile, Ian TPed our house. Win some, and lose some.

5 | Spring toes and fancy fingers means mom-and-sister-time and girls night within a week of each other. Plus, sprucing up the 33 pieces (including shoes and accessories) I've chosen to wear for the next 3 months for Project 333.

Hope your week is off to a great start!

Veggie Meal-Maker Giveaway (closed)

2013-04-03T06:00:00.000-05:00

Four little words I love reading at the end of shopping trips: Hooray, you have everything!

Each time I plan our family's meals, the ingredients from the recipes I plan in Veggie Meal-Maker (VMM) are automatically added to my shopping list (and accessible on my phone). I browse our cupboards and quickly check off the items we already have on my smart phone, then add a couple things I know we're short on. When I shop, I get only what's on the list and check it off as I go. Then, at the end, those four little words.

It may sound silly, but it feels like my own little support team is on the other end, cheering me on. And, I can tell you, that's exactly what it is. Because, you see, Veggie Meal-Maker is the beautiful inspiration of my talented brother. He and his wife needed a vegan/vegetarian meal-planning tool to keep themselves in line, and what resulted was a tool they happily share with others.

And they don't support and encourage me just because I'm family. I know personally how devoted they are to helping others succeed in healthy living through successful meal-planning. They are so ready to help trouble shoot or encourage, answering questions and offering suggestions, and partnering with others passionate about healthy living.

And I am so happy to share the meal-planning love with one of you, lovely readers, through their gift of a one-year subscription to Veggie Meal-Maker!

Enter this Veggie Meal-Maker giveaway one of three ways...

(one entry given for each item completed)

1 | Answer the following question in the comments below: "When it comes to meal-planning, I need the most help with..."

2 | Share this giveaway (or one of the meal-planning posts listed below) on Twitter, Facebook, or Pinterest, and let me know that you've done so in the comments below.

3 | Subscribe to the monthly-ish Beginner Beans e-mail and get the free meal-planning e-book. Let me know that you've done both in the comments below.

Be sure to check this post Wed Apr 10 to see if this subscription is yours!

This giveaway will be open through next Tuesday (Apr 9), and the winner will be announced in this post next Wednesday (Apr 10).

PS, If you already have a subscription to VMM, you are still welcome to enter this giveaway, then gift it to a friend or family member if you win!

Congrats, AJ! You are the winner! Contact me at beginnerbeans {at} gmail .com to claim your prize.

Thank you all for contributing!

>>>>>

Veggie Meal-Maker meal-planning posts

access our meal plan + recipes
free beginner's guide to meal-planning
"save recipe" works like the "pin it" button
how to make a monthly meal-plan
mobile recipes and shopping lists
is paying for the service worth the savings?
veggie meal-maker's affiliate program

Dear Reader | April 2013

2013-04-01T05:30:00.000-05:00

3 | giveaway
7 | high-five for friday

8 | green smoothie

22 | greenest things
22 | launch of squishytush.com

24 | picmonkey color tutorial

29 | coming in may

Dear Reader,

If you've been around Beginner Beans (or me) for any time at all, you've likely learned that I love green--both as a color and as a lifestyle. Green lamps add color to our otherwise neutral living room. Green text spruces up this plane jane blog. Green smoothies help us treat ourselves more healthfully. Green-inspired tees complete my minimalist wardrobe.

My favorite tees read "live with less" and "earth day every day."

They're more than witty tees, they're messages of how I want to live--beyond recycling or cloth diapering (though I enjoy doing both). Life is better when I'm content with what I have, eat my daily greens (if only in a smoothie), and grow closer to God in His creation. That is green living to me.

And that is what I believe was intended when...

The Lord God took the man
and put him in the garden of Eden
to tend and keep it. | Gen. 2:15

This month, I'm sharing more about "green living" as a part of Earth Day (April 22) and essentially earth month.

May we join the trees in clapping our hands for our abundant life in Him! (Is. 55:12)

Happy Earth Month!

-Trina

PS, a group of special people got this schedule a week early in their inbox with info on the month's giveaway and an upcoming announcement. Join us, and sign-up for the Beginner Beans monthly-ish newsletter >> here. Look forward to keeping in touch!

Beginner Beans

Going Back to When it All Began

A Peek at Tomorrow's Giveaway

Memories, Simplified

If We Only Knew that These are the Good Ol' Days

...enjoy these good ol' days while they last.

Fashion, Simplified

Home, Simplified

Comfort for Good Enough Moms // #fiveminutefriday

Mother's Day Gifts, Simplified

Finding the Perfect Minimalist Gift

Minimalist Mother's Day Gift Ideas

Reusable

Consumable

Hobby or Frequently Used

Luxury

Want

Need

Reading Material

Experience

Charitable

Family Time, Simplified

Simplicity, Simplified

May Day Home Giveaway (closed)

Enter this May Day giveaway one of three ways...

Other posts you might be interested in...

Dear Reader | May 2013

Let's Comfort Each Other with These Words, Friends

How to Color Match in PicMonkey (and make your own color palette)

9 Steps to Green Your Everyday Living

Happy Earth Day!

9 steps to greening your everyday living...

1 | Do without.

2 | Use less.

3 | Look into reusable.

4 | Buy consumables in bulk.

5 | Buy consumables with recyclable packaging.

6 | Make or grow your own.

7 | Buy secondhand or borrow.

8 | Extend its life.

9 | Dispose with care.

Conclusion | One change at a time.

Their links...

My links...

Your links...

Jump | 5-min friday with lisa jo

How to Save Money on Groceries

Grocery Money-Saving Tip #1 | Limit snacks.

Grocery Money-Saving Tip #2 | Shop when full.

Grocery Money-Saving Tip #3 | Make a meal plan and list, and stick to it.

Grocery Money-Saving Tip #4 | Plan simple meals.

Grocery Money-Saving Tip #5 | Rely on staples.

Grocery Money-Saving Tip #6 | Stock up only on the always used/versatile items.

40 Days without TV

If You Feel Like Quitting Church, Read This First

When Going Green is Counter-Culture | how to refuse

Beginner Links to Grow | healthy eating

Their links...

My links...

Your links...

Easy Green Smoothie for the Reluctant Beginner

Easy Green Smoothie

Getting Started with Green Smoothies

Beginner Green Smoothie Tip #1 | Find your favorite fruit combination.

Beginner Green Smoothie Tip #2 | Add a few greens.

Beginner Green Smoothie Tip #3 | Choose a ripe banana.

Beginner Green Smoothie Tip #4 | Brave some protein.

Beginner Green Smoothie Tip #5 | Go beyond the fruit.

High Five for Friday! Er, Sunday?

Here we go, my top-5 highlight from this last week...

Veggie Meal-Maker Giveaway (closed)

Enter this Veggie Meal-Maker giveaway one of three ways...

Veggie Meal-Maker meal-planning posts

Dear Reader | April 2013