I’ve been in a “change” kind of mood.
Maybe it’s because I’ve been home so much lately due to the strep epidemic on our farm.
No matter the cause, I’ve been indulging myself in re-thinking all of my little systems. I began with our budget (ugh!), but a necessary evil. We haven’t always been the best in this category but now (I think) we are determined to stick to the black and white numbers.
I’ve also been re-working how I clean the house and plan for food. (I’ll update more when I have these new-and-improved plans nailed out.)
One of my favorite sources of inspiration is nonfiction books. I love to read about how people lived and struggled in times of long ago or not so long ago. Gives me a good perspective on my “problems” and on how easy I really do have it.
Lately I’ve been stuck on World War II books. I love to read about how these ordinary people lived through such horrific times and then (most of them) came out on the other side and rebuilt America and more.
I try to read things that inspire me with little are nuggets of information to apply into my 2012 life, whether it be practically or just in my attitude and perspective.
Another thing I know is there are lots of VERY talented and inspiring people in my life right now and I don’t want to miss out from your knowledge and experiences.
So, friends, tell me what’s some of your favorite tips on household management (or life in general)? Do you have any rules that you live by? What books have you read or who has inspired you to be better than yourself?
Please don’t be shy! : )
Categories: Frugal homemaking on the farm
Ginia
My name is Ginia Oehlschlager and I'm a small-town gal from Missouri. Join me as I document my crazy life on the farm with my husband and four kids. I'm always looking for frugal, simple ways to live the life God set before me. Where faith, family and fun come together on the farm.
My Home on the Farm 
Household tips: When cleaning house, start at the top and work your way down, one room at a time. Take a break after cleaning each room. I timed myself once and determined how long it takes me to clean the main floor of my house. When I’m bored, I play beat-the-clock. I know how long it takes to clean each room and it’s fun to see if I can best my own time. Clean baseboards every time you clean your floor. It takes almost no time and it keeps things looking extra clean. Also, (imagine Grandmother Seneker’s voice) it only takes three minutes to make a bed. Joe verified that fact. Never go to bed with a dirty kitchen and sweep the floor after you wash up the dishes (or load the dishwasher). Again, it doesn’t take long and it helps a lot. Always do anything that only takes one minute to do. It’s amazing how many one-minute things are in our daily lives! Also, with little kids, make cleaning a game, preferably a learning game. For example, if a child is learning to count and/or to identify colors, instruct the child to “Pick up four blue toys.” Use shapes, too. If parents teach children cleaning and picking up after themselves is fun, kids won’t mind doing it and there will be fewer battles over clean bedrooms later. In this vein, don’t act like your household duties are dreadful or something that can be put off. Children learn by example.
Rules to live by: Be nice; be generous; be yourself; and take personal responsibility for your actions. And always, always laugh at your own absurdity!
There have been a number of inspirational people in my life, but the individual who has inspired me the most has been my son, Joseph Brennan. I can think of no better person.
: ) All great tips! ❤ Joe