How to Identify and Use Winter Squash

how to identify and use winter squash

Written by Stacy Karen, Contributing Writer While most can identify pumpkin and butternut as varieties of winter squash, many of us don't know much about other types of winter squash or how to prepare them. Today I want to dive into the world of winter squash and open the door to new eating possibilities. Health Benefits of Winter Squash Winter squash, especially those with darker flesh (like pumpkin and acorn) contain high amounts of carotene. Carotene has been shown to help protect against cancer, heart [...]

Homemade Cocoa Body Scrub and Body Butter

Homemade Cocoa Body Scrub and Body Butter at KeeperoftheHome.org

Written by Brandy, Contributing Writer It's getting to be that time of year again when I sometimes like to smell a little bit festive.  Ya know...aside from the ordinary scent of oatmeal, honey, and whatever my toddler ate for lunch.  As the gift-giving season approaches, too, I'm glad to have these two fantastic recipes for making the most delicious-smelling body scrub and body butter ever! I've already made my own batch, of course, and I need to go get some more half-pint mason jars so [...]

He is Risen!

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Behold Him there, the risen Lamb My perfect, spotless Righteousness The great unchangeable I AM The King of glory and of grace One with Himself, I cannot die My soul is purchased by His blood My life is hid with Christ on high With Christ my Savior and my God With Christ my Savior and my God Taken from I Will Glory in my Redeemer by Steve and Vikki Cook Image by JD | Photography

Merry Christmas!

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For to us a child is born, to us a son is given; and the government shall be upon his shoulder, and his name shall be called Wonderful Counselor, Mighty God, Everlasting Father, Prince of Peace. Of the increase of his government and of peace there will be no end... Isaiah 9:6,7 Wishing you all a very blessed Christmas, as we celebrate the Savior! There will be one more post before Christmas, as Erin shares tomorrow with some helpful suggestions for taking and making the most of a personal retreat for the [...]

10 DIY Christmas Gifts Your Friends and Family Will Cherish

homekeeping binder

Written by Jaime G, Guest Writer Whether you're on a strict budget, have a large family and many friends, or simply enjoy creating meaningful Christmas gifts, I hope you'll find a few Christmas gift ideas you'll enjoy making - and giving - on my list. It's wonderful to create lasting memories, especially during the Christmas season. Merry Christmas to you and your family! 1. For the tea lover in your life, a homemade chai tea kit would make an ideal gift. Using an assortment of [...]

A little bit of Sweet, a little bit of Spice: Gingerbread Recipes

healthy gingerbread cookies

  Written by Rachel, Contributing Writer As you well know, it's Christmastime! Your music is playing, the stockings are hung, your tree is decorated and it's time to get baking! When I think about baking during this season, my first thoughts are about gingerbread houses and cookies. I love the spicy, sweet flavor. They are adorable, although they are full of white sugar and decorated with artificial flavoring and color frosting usually. Did you know that it is possible to make these little guys while [...]

9 Homemade Gift Ideas: Frugal and Fast

Naturally Sweetened Caramel Corn

  Written by Mindy, Contributing Writer I have always loved making, giving, and receiving handmade gifts.  There is just something very special about a gift that somebody takes the time to make themselves! As much as I’ve always loved making gifts to give others, I do…ahem…have a history of not completing all of my handmade gifts on time.  I always have such grand dreams of crocheting everyone in my family huge blankets for Christmas, or making everyone a pair of matching pajamas. If I would [...]

Giving Above and Beyond This Christmas

bead necklaces at mercy house

Although I think we would all agree that Christmas is a season for giving, we often restrict that giving to family and friends. Yet this season offers us a beautiful opportunity to show the love of Christ in a very tangible way, as we give beyond our personal relationships. Not only do we have the chance to reach out and bless others who might not otherwise receive anything, but we can also do it together as a family, teaching our children about generosity and showing [...]