So…are you feeling the stress of what’s going on in the world right now? Honestly, it’s hard not to. However, as I mentioned in this past post, it is a choice as to how we react to situations we’re faced with. Many of us are finding ourselves in a quarantine situation and are focused on being home.
I see it as a time to relish in many things. Funny thing for me is, that I feel like y’all are getting a taste of my blissful world. And I say that in all seriousness. Homeschooling my children, working at home, making my home is all I know. I wouldn’t have it any other way.
LET’S BE REAL
First, I have to say that I received this little log home about 7 or 8 years ago from my mother. She had won an assortment of craft goodies in a giveaway, and felt I could have fun with them. I have used all of those things up in one way or another, except for this one.
Why? Well, it’s because my parents built the most gorgeous log home I’ve ever seen…like a 6 K square foot log home on acres of state park forest when I was 3 years old. I had the privilege of growing up in it. In some odd ways I hold onto the dream that it could be mine some day.
Not only is that not happening any time soon, but this little log home has been a reminder that my home is what I make of it. Maybe we don’t live in the home we would choose, or maybe our budget is such we can fix or decorate it as we would like. However, there is nothing keeping us from making what we do have beautiful, as well as haven for our families.
Thankfully, this downtime we’re all facing right now is the perfect time to focus on making our house a home. If you’ve got kids at home with you, then you have a built-in crew to help too. (I’m also a realist and know that not every kids is going to love this…hang with me).
SCHOOL
During these last few weeks, I’ve seen many parents freaking out at the thought of actually getting more time with their children. That makes my mama heart sad. However, I understand that this is not the norm they’re accustomed to. These years fly by and I choose to savor every bit of it, even the toddler tantrums up to the teen I-know-everything-before-you-even-opened-your-mouth syndrome. {{insert eye-roll}
In addition, one thing I want to clarify is that quarantine schooling is not the same as homeschooling. Being forced to stay inside and isolated couldn’t be the furthest thing from real homeschooling. In most public school days, kids are in a classroom in a desk for hours on end. However, at home, we can get studies done in our own schedule, in whatever environment we choose (outside or in), and can head off on adventures that reinforce our learning experiences.
The minute I started making this little house a home, my kids joined in.
So many families are worrying about what their children are missing out on because of lack of school time. I say, this is the opportune time to dig in and teach life skills.
Here’s some ideas:
- teach cooking & baking – recipes
- grab that teen driver and show them how to change the fluids on their car or how to change a tire.
- start a garden whether in the ground or in pots
- do a nature study on the trees, insects, birds, animals near you
- work on an upcycle project as a team
- teach how to balance a checkbook or how to budget for all the bills families face
- teach basic sewing skills: how to sew on a button, how to fix a sagging seam, etc.
…you get the idea. School is not just in the books, but basic life-skills are absolutely important too. If you don’t know how to do some of the study ideas I’ve listed above, there are plenty of talented bloggers who share this information with you freely.
Also, make the basics fun! Write your math facts with a dry-erase or washable marker on window. Have your kids spell out their words on their siblings back with their finger one letter at at time so they can guess the word. Make a lunch picnic under your dinner table with sheets and pillows for a fun adventure they’ll never forget.
LET’S TALK TP
Alright, y’all. This TP thing is so outta hand!! I mean what in the world are people thinking? This virus has nothing to do with the bowels, but the respiratory system. Anyhoo…not to beat a dead horse.
If you are one of those facing the drippy wet bottom situation without your favorite roll of toilet tissue, there’s hope. As a mama who’s cloth diapered her children, you too can survive the TP scarcity of 2020. {{insert another eye-roll}}
First, I realize not everyone has the convenience of a washer and dryer at home. If you are blessed to have such amenities, it’s time to make use of them. However, a simple hand-washing and line-dry method works for this too. I suggest that you ration your TP (if you have it) to bowel movement-type situations only. Next, grab all your old t-shirts, flannels, or any other kind of tush-friendly fabric and cut them up into large squares.
Next, you’ll need a bucket or trash bin for the used rags to go in near your commode. *parents of young kiddos, you’ll need to supervise to make sure they don’t flush them into the great sewer yonder. Fill the bucket half way full with water and about a quarter cup of white vinegar. The vinegar will neutralize any odor you may be concerned about. Wipe and toss the rag into the bucket. Wash hands, of course.
As a family of 8, we do laundry daily, so we just toss in the rags along with our regular wash. Is this simple? Yes. Is this gross? No. Using cloth rags was the only way to get your where-the-sun-doesn’t-shine spots clean for centuries. Of course, washing hands is still as important as it is when we do have TP blessings.
FOOD NORMING
Then, there’s the food issues. While many canned foods and such are becoming a high-demand, fresh foods have stayed in supply. If you really want to prepare your body, it’s time to think gut health. Grab those tomatoes, pepper, onions, garlic, and lemons/limes and make some fermented salsa – RECIPE HERE. Or how about crock pickles or cortido (a Latin-American sauerkraut)?
I say fermented and you may think rotten. Not quite. What I mean is fermented properly so that you get the benefits of adding good flora, probiotics, to your gut. Take a break from sugar, grains, and heavy starches that encourage overgrowth of unhealthy flora in your gut.
This is also a fun time to try new foods and recipes using what you already have in your pantry. Allrecipes.com has an app and a search engine that let’s you plug in what ingredients you have to come up with a recipe. You can’t get much easier than that. Also, share your favorite recipe with us below in comments. I’m always game to try a new one!
SCREENS
Last, but not least, turn off the screen. Unplug and get outside. Fresh air, exercise, and sunshine are natural health-boosting bonuses, while EMFs (electro magnetic frequencies from screens, microwaves, etc) suppress your immune system. I mentioned cloth diapering my kids. Did you know the sun can naturally bleach? In winter or summer, I could place a cloth diaper in the sun and it would remove the stains naturally.
In addition, think of how babies are treated for jaundice by just placing them in the sun. That’s how I dealt with it with my own babies. Here’s an interesting read on how the sun played a part in warding off the flu pandemic of 1918. Plus, exercising relieves stress, and stress is a known immune system suppressor. Oh, and don’t forget to laugh your bellies off too!
WRAP-UP
While we can’t change what’s going on all over the world, we can make a difference in our own homes and families. Supporting each other, including folks in our neighborhoods that need help, are just some of the small ways we can beat this.
If you know of an elderly or handicapped person that could use a helping hand, reach out. A phone call doesn’t spread germs, but bringing needed supplies to those who are at risk can mean the world. Help them setup a home delivery so they can stay home.
Last, but not least, God is in control of it all, even in the dire times such as these. He tells us to:
“Cast all your anxieties on Him, because He cares for you.” 1 Peter 5:7
There’s nothing any of us has done that will keep us from His ever-loving promises. We just need trust He loves us so. While we’re feeling stuck in a bubble, just remember we are blessed to have what we have, including friends and family.
How are you finding ways to cope and enjoying being home? Share your ideas or methods with us so we can all be inspired. It’s gonna get better. God’s gonna make it better.
GIVEAWAY
Now, I want to send this little creation of mine to one of you. My hope is that when you have this you will know you are blessed, held in God’s hand, and your house is your home and what you make of it.
Giveaway is open to U.S. residents 18 years of age and older. Winner will be notified via email and will have 24 hours to claim their prize. Be sure to check your spam!
Being home is a blessing as long as we see it as such. I pray that you all will be safe, smart, and happy. Do pin and share to inspire others too.
Up next…I’ll be doing something fun with this thrifted find. Take a peek HERE.
To get these DIY tips & tricks in your inbox, be sure to sign up for my newsletter. PLUS, you will get your FREE Furniture Buying Checklist and special discount to my shop. Until next time!
More projects you do while being home:
What an adorable little cabin; just like a little fairy home.
I took it upon myself to be confined to my home and not go out, at which time I am getting more things accomplished and just taking it one day at a time. I’m in my 70’s and have no kids at home to home school so I do have time on my hands to work on craft projects, paint some furniture pieces that I have been putting off, etc.
The Good Lord will see all of us through this. Will just take time, patience, prayer & faith.
A great way to be, Colleen. It will pass as many generations before us have weathered horrific storms as well. Keeping our eyes on Him. Hugs to you!
Thank you. Reading your post today has made me feel calmer. We’ve just gone into the “bigger lockdown” mode here, I’ve sold my house and am supposed to move in a few weeks time. Due to a problem thrown up by the lockdown I’m going to be very short of money, it’ll be tight for a few months. I was beginning to panic slightly, should I back out but I’ll lose the £££s I’ve already paid.
Thanks to you, I’m feeling calmer. This will come to pass and hopefully, with everyone taking sensible precautions, it will pass with less loss than expected.
Stay safe, stay healthy, everyone. Love from the UK.
That makes my heart happy to hear, Holly, that you’re encouraged. We too are facing tight times ahead because of a lockdown, but we have been through worse in our past. Congrats on the sale of your home and I am lifting up your situation in prayer now. God’s got you! 😀
I like you LOVe my home. I don’t feel the need to leave on a daily basis.lcant believe your prize is the log cabin.Thanks for the chance to win❤️
So glad to hear your do, Janina. I wish I had a cabin for all. 😉
Today I’m making face masks for a nursing home. They are in such short supply. If I make twenty ( figur e four hours ) think of the impact.
The nearest hospital to me is over an hour away…in another state….and they’re next . I have friends who gave me elastic ( they don’t sew) and heaven knows I have fabric! There are tutorials on YouTube, so this is my way to help. Join in! THIS IS OUR FIGHT !
Awesome! That is a great way to be and I know your efforts are wholeheartedly appreciated.
I love yourr blog and your house made of logs! :). Thank you Larissa! You always have Christ-centered and level-headed advice. Your crafts are so fun! Thank you!
I could hug ya, Kimberly. Thank you!!
I’m retired so this is no different for me. I play on the computer and craft. I should be cleaning! LOL
haha! You just made my day, Jane! 😀 😀
I love this blog post. All of it. I trust that folks who are unaccustomed to lots of time at home will be encouraged! We homeschooled and although I am an off the charts extrovert, my favorite place was home. That is more true today.
And!!! I love what you did to that little cabin!! What fun that you grew up in a house your dad built!
I’m so happy to hear it, Becki. I feel much the same. I often feel like I have 10 people trapped inside of me wanting to do so many things. Alas, I am what I am. haha. Hugs to you!
This is so adorable! I have always loved log cabins. I would love to win. It would look so nice on my mantel. I always enjoying your blog posts. You are so upbeat and encouraging. Thanks for the giveaway.
aww…thanks, Dawn! 😀 It was time for that little house to become an home and find a new home. Thank you!
This is the perfect craft to do while we are home with nowhere to go. Stay safe my friend.
Sending you smiles and hugs! 😀
Beautiful, well said post full of valuable information! Enjoyed the uplifting video, thank you for that. There are always gifts in the hard times if we choose to look for them. I love how families have slowed down and are finding creative ways to connect and spend time together. I think the world needed some slowing down. My hope is that when this is all over, we have a new much calmer norm.
I couldn’t agree with you more. It warms my heart to see families bonding and spending much needed time together. I’m all for a calmer norm for sure. Hugs!
Thank you for a gentle reminder. I am retired, staying at home isn’t such a trial,but being the humans that we are ,we just can’t help wanting what we aren’t supposed to eat, go, wear etc. Plain old human nature. Inmy68 years, I have never seen empty shelves in a grocery store. It so surreal. Now I can imagine what it was like for people in ww2. Take care miss Larissa,God Bless you and yours.
You have made my day, Charleen. I hope to inspire and encourage as this is an wake-up call to us all. Thank you!
Love the little house. Am staying with my son in Missouri and can’t go home to Calif. it’s a win – win situation!
I love your silver lining! 😀
Love the log home and the story behind it! We live in little home in the forest which has always been our sanctuary and is now even more so. As a home educating family, I agree with your comments of the struggles people are facing in this new-found “togetherness.” It saddens me that so many people just don’t know how to be together with their family. This is the primary reason we chose to be a home educating family before our children were even born. Perhaps this will be a silver lining to all of this. Perhaps some families will discover they enjoy being together and will decide that a life they did not know was possible actually is. Blessings to you and yours from the mountains of Western NC!
I hope so too! It would such a different world if folks felt that way. Sending you hugs!
Thank you, Larissa! I always appreciate your Godly perspective on this life. I have been sick while at home so haven’t accomplished much yet but I am looking forward to a return of health and energy. Thankfully, I love being at home. Blessings to you and your gang xoxo
I am praying now for you, Mary, that you find healing. Keep me posted! 😀
I too am retired and love being home; just said to my husband the other day – finally the world is turning at my pace – ha! 🙂 (but don’t want a nasty virus to have to provide it! 🙁 Always enjoy reading your posts and seeing what your creative hands are producing Larissa. So hope one day you and your brood will be able to move into the 6K log home of your parents. That would be a great fit when your children marry and have children and come home for holidays, etc, as the size of your family will grow exponentially 🙂 Thank you for giving away your super cute log home creation!
tee hee! You sound like me, Mary. 😉 My spirits are lifted hearing your words, thank you. Yes, that home would suit us to a T as we have outgrown our current home. Maybe moving will be on this year’s list, Lord willing.
All’s well so far.
Staying home gives me a chance to catch up on projects. I, too, don’t mind being home, though I miss my kids and grandkids.
Glad to hear it, Toni. 😀 Isolation can be so hard. I hope this all gets resolved soon.
I am working from home which is a challenge ( laptop, remote connection). I have used my commute time to exercise, lunch time to organize my island cabinet, and break time to prep for dinner. This had brought calmness to me during this difficult time! I hope you are doing well!
Love that you traded that time for exercise…perfect! Back at ya with the wellness wishes. 😀
Thank you, I needed this today!
Sending you a hug, Cheryl. 😀
Hi Larissa,
The cabin is so cute that I’m sorry you are giving it away. I know our Lord is watching over us always, and in times as this He is pleased by our acts of kindness toward each other. The whole world needs to work together and share knowledge to beat this virus. I pray that world leaders see the bigger picture.Thank you for sharing your creative ideas!
Susan
Hi Susan! I’m excited for it to find a new home. It’s symbolic for me and I know God has a plan. Thank you. {{hugs}}
Thanks so much for all the encouragement. Just love the log house….so cozy…so glad my own home is a refuge.
You are most welcome, Sally. It makes me happy.
Hi Larissa, We are taking this virus and the stay at home orders very seriously. While I miss seeing my family and enjoying our Sunday family day dinners together, we know that due to some family member health issues, it is wise to stay apart right now. What a blessing technology is, we can still be together and check on each household without endangering anyone. I loved this post, with your log house story and of course faith and trust in our Lord! Stay healthy and safe. Hugs
I’m so glad to hear you enjoyed this post. God is good and has a plan. 😀 Hugs!
Sent you an email :}
Thank U
Got it! 😀