Joyfully Thriving

Simplify Life at Home

Ooey Gooey Butter Bars

Easy recipes are the best! Easy recipes that only have a few ingredients and result in a delicious dessert for a crowd? Even better than the best! That is the case with these 6 ingredient ooey gooey butter bars. Our family has been making these gooey butter bars for years. Many people mistake them for lemon bars but are surprised (and pleased) to find out that they are delicious, cream cheese filled bar instead. It is one of the simplest bar recipes - especially since it uses a cake mix for the base. This recipe is so simple that kids can make it too. Just make the base then pour the … Read More...

A Biblical Version of I Wish You More Book

Looking for a Christian version of I Wish You More? Learn how to add Bible verses to the I Wish You More book to create a priceless Christian book gift.  Incorporating Scripture into children's books is one of my favorite things. I love taking a classic children's book and enriching it with Scripture. It doesn't work with just any book and it takes time to make sure the Bible verses match the story. I've been adding Bible verses to "Oh, the Places You'll Go" for years. The next book I worked on was "Guess How Much I Love You."  After many requests when this title kept coming up, I am … Read More...

Easter Basket Ideas for Kids Under $5

As Easter approaches, it's time to start thinking ahead to Easter baskets. Of course, Easter is about celebrating Jesus' resurrection, but we do also give Easter baskets in our house. It's a small, special treat. Nothing too extravagant but something special to anticipate. While Easter baskets can be a fun tradition, they don't have to be expensive! I believe you can create a delightful Easter basket for $5 to $10. Easter baskets are only as expensive as you allow them to be. With a little bit of planning and shopping ahead, it is actually quite easy to create a frugal Easter basket that … Read More...

The Reason I’m Under Budget in February

I decided to combine February's shopping summary with a bit of a life update. Why? Because it makes more sense why I am under budget this month. February Life Lately As I shared in my newsletter last month, we go the news that our transmission was going out on the van. It was not unexpected news and after weighing the pros and cons, we decided go ahead and replace it. Yes, it is a costly repair but it is far cheaper than buying a new vehicle - especially since we don't have any vehicle loans. We are hoping this repair can get us a couple more years out of this vehicle. That is to be seen, … Read More...

Unique Diaper Gift for Baby Showers

If you are looking for a unique Christian baby gift, consider giving this diaper gift. It is simple to make these diapers and it is a gift that touch a new mom's heart - both with practicality and thoughtfulness. I always want to give thoughtful gifts - and that is especially true when giving gifts to a new mom. There are a lot of emotions that come with having a baby. There are the sleepless nights, the anxious questions, the overwhelming joys, the constant worries... What if you could give a new baby gift that spoke to each and every one of these new mom emotions?  This is where … Read More...

A Look Back at January Grocery Shopping

This is it. This is the year I'm ready to get back to my frugal shopping ways. Yes, we are a family of 6 now, but I still believe big families can shop on a budget! It may be a bit trickier with more people but it can be done. No matter where you live...No matter where you shop...No matter how many people in your family...you CAN save money on your groceries.  I am recommitting myself to sticking to my budget this year to help you see that it can be done. How do I do this? Let me share some grocery specifics, for those of you who are new here. This post may contain affiliate … Read More...

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