The Minimal Mom

Starting a Walking Club

By Dawn, Effective Living, Mom Life, The Minimal Mom

Over the course of this past year I’ve realized that it would be nice if I expanded my circle of local friends. I have a couple of great friends who I love to meet up with for coffee…but that’s like a whole event to plan and it doesn’t happen as frequently as I’d like (or need!).

Growing up, I remember my mom meeting our neighbor for a walk a few nights a week. They’d call each other on the phone and say, “I’m leaving the house now,” and meet in the middle. They’d walk for a half hour, visit, unwind and then head back home.

That seems so nice…and recently I have found myself wishing for a similar friend in the neighborhood to walk and visit with…and I have no excuse– there are three new families on our road that are close in age– one family even fosters!

So I’m pushing myself out of my comfort zone and starting a walking club. This scares me for a few reasons:

What if no one shows up?
What if one person shows up and they’re weird or I don’t enjoy their company?
What if I want to quit and can’t because I started it!

I think these are valid….but if I’m looking for friendship, I’m guessing a few others on our road are too!

Tips for Starting a Walking Club

So I did a little “research” and found a few helpful tips for starting a walking club:

Designate a “co-leader” once it gets going so all of the planning and organizing isn’t on my shoulders.
If possible, have a set schedule so everyone knows when the group is meeting each week.
Have a set meeting location.
Have a plan for poor weather days.
Be clear who is and isn’t invited– are kids and pets allowed?

This seemed reasonable, so I set to work making a flyer (this is the fun part for me– actually distributing seems scarier ;) Here you can see a sample of the flyer. We’ve created it as a Google Doc, too, if you want to copy it and use it yourself!

TO USE OUR FLYER TEMPLATE:
1) Follow this link to Google Drive
2) Click on “File” in the upper left of Google drive (not “file” for your web browser! ;)
3) Select “Make a copy” from the dropdown
4) Hit “Ok” — this will save a copy to your Google drive that can be edited!

How I’m going to distribute the flyers:

I thought about mailing them but know that a personal invitation goes a lot further! So my hope is to deliver them in person. Then I can put a face to the flyer and hopefully they can see that I’m fairly normal myself (I know they’ll have most of the same concerns that I did!! ;)

What will happen next?

Overall, I don’t know how this will go…and as much as I’m nervous, I’m also excited. I think we all could use a little more human interaction right now (outside of the humans in our immediate household!) so I’m hopeful that some great connections will be made!

I’ll keep you posted!!!

Minimalist Master Bedroom Makeover

By Dawn, Dawn's House, The Minimal Mom

As we approach the 5 year anniversary of living in our house, it feels really good to tackle this final room! While a little bit unconventional, we’ve turned our family room into our master bedroom to make room for foster kids.

We see this as a 2-3 year “fix” until we add on more space, so even though it is untraditional, it will work for now. Below I’ll share where I found all of the things in this room! (Some are affiliate links, most are not!)

Bedframe: Vintage Style Metal Bed Frame (we spray painted it matte black- from Amazon)
Bedding: Stripe & Stitch Embroidery Bedding- Hearth & Hand Brand (from Target)
Throw pillow on Bed: Better Homes & Gardens Striped Lumbar Pillow (from Walmart)
Lamp above bed: Modern LED Picture Light (I spray painted it a lighter gold, from Amazon)
Mattress: Helix Mattress (Get up to $200 off your Helix mattress, plus two free pillows with this link!)

Blanket Ladder: I made it but was inspired by this one on Amazon
Striped Blanket on ladder: from Home Goods
White Blanket on ladder: from Marshall’s
Knobs on ladder: Gold Robe Hooks (I spray painted them a lighter gold! From Amzon)
Basket on ladder: Wall Mount Utility Basket (I spray painted them a lighter gold! From Amazon)
Plant holder on ladder: from Marshall’s
Greens on ladder: Green Clamatis Spray (from Walmart)

Curtains: Threshold Diamond Weave Curtain Panel (from Target in grey)
Full length mirror: Currently out of stock in gold (from Amazon)
Picture frames: Thin Metal Matted Gallery Frame (from Target)
Chairs: Caroll Swivel Glider by Flexsteel (I got them at Hom Furniture but I see they’re available many other places, too!)
Throw pillows on chairs: from Marshall’s
Blanket on chair: from Marshall’s
Ottomon: Round Jute Floor Pouf (from Walmart)
Round side table: ACME Furniture Side Table (from Amazon)
Tray on side table: from Target about 3 years ago!
Plant on side table: HomeGoods
Ceiling Fan: Ceiling Hugger 52″ Fan

PAINT COLORS

Wall Color: Earl Grey by Magnolia Homes (I took the paint sample from Hirschfield’s to our local home improvement store and they mixed it into Pitsburgh Paint premium paint in flat)

Spray Paint: Sunlit Brass by Rustoleum (This is the color that I used for the knobs and basket on the blanket ladder as well as the light above the bed.)

Thank you for stopping by! Often when I put a BUNCH of links, some stop working so I tried to include the name of each item and where it’s from so that you can Google it if need be!

And unfortunately, I couldn’t find a link to these earrings anywhere! They are Lucky Brand and I bought them at Marshall’s this week…they’re just a touch heavy, but otherwise I really like them!

-Dawn

Why can’t I part with stuff? The Endowment Effect may explain it!

By Dawn, The Minimal Mom

Even if you don’t want to be a minimalist, you probably want less to manage. So why is decluttering so difficult?

There are three reasons why it’s hard time parting with things, and you can flip the script so you can actually get your house simplified once and for all!!

(Get the FREE printable here to remind yourself of these questions as you’re decluttering your house.)

1. The Endowment Effect

When we are endowed with, or gain possession of something, we tend to place a higher value on it.

A study was done at Cornell University in the 1980s about the Endowment Effect.

Half of the participants received a $6 mug from the gift shop as a gift, and the other half did not receive a mug.

They asked those who had received a mug how much they would sell it for. Their responses averaged $5.25. That’s how much value they placed on it.

Then they asked the group who had NOT received a mug how much would they would be willing to pay for it. Their response: $2.25.

So for the exact same mug, the group that already owned it valued it twice as much as the people who did not!

When we own something, we put more value on it. So when you go to declutter your house, it’s hard to get rid of something because you’re thinking that it’s very valuable.

Even if something has been shoved in the back of a closet for 10 years, it’s human nature to inflate the value of your possessions.

2. Sunk-Cost Bias

Another reason decluttering is difficult is sunk-cost biased. Once we’ve spent money on something, it’s very difficult for us to acknowledge that it was a bad decision.

This is especially common with clothing. So we end up with these things in our closet that we spent money on, and the only way we can justify it is to keep it and hope that someday we’ll actually wear it.

The problem is someday never comes. We’re creatures of habit. We just wear the same outfits that we like best and that fit well. But we still keep the clothes we don’t wear because we spent money on them.

It happens to all of us. You’re not alone!

3. How we were raised

The last reason that it is hard to part with things is that we’ve been taught not to be wasteful and to value things that belonged to other people.

This is especially true with sentimental items. We feel a responsibility to take care of things that have been passed down to us, and to use them to remember that person.

It feels very wasteful or irreverent to get rid of something that was passed down to us, or that we see as some kind of heirloom or artifact or something that has value.

It comes in many different forms, but at the root of it is this feeling of responsibility to either not be wasteful or to remember and honor the person whose it was before us.

How to make it easier to part with things

We’ve talked about why it’s so hard to get rid of things. So how we can switch the questions that we’re asking to make it much easier?

The Endowment Effect

Say you have some coffee mugs. You think they’re worth $5, but in reality, they’re only worth $2.

So instead of asking, What are these worth? change the question and ask, What would I pay to acquire them?

If you already have a cabinet full of coffee mugs the answer is probably, I wouldn’t pay anything for them because I don’t need any more coffee mugs.

And so the value can vary from $0 or you might be like the other students and be like, well, I would pay $2 for that.

It’s easier to donate a $2 mug than a $5 mug.

Does it make every decision so much easier? No, it still takes practice, but you’ll find that it does get easier if you’re asking the right question.

Sunk-Cost Bias

The sunk-cost bias is about wasted money. It is painful to think about getting rid of something that you spent money on — it literally lights up the pain center in your brain.

So if it feels hard to donate clothes that you paid money for and have never worn, it’s literally painful.

So ask yourself, What am I wasting? It might be money, but it might also be time and energy.

Right now, the commodity that I’m worried about wasting is time and energy with my kids.

I don’t want to be crabby with them because my house stresses me out. I want to be present with them. I want to have conversations with them. I want to spend time with them. I want to learn things with them.

So right now, the commodity that I’m worried about wasting is time.

Then when I see the clothes that I spent money that I’m not wearing, it’s easier to cut my losses because I don’t want to manage those things anymore.

Another commodity is peace of mind.

For many of us, clutter for many of us causes us to feel anxious and a bit on edge in our own homes.

So even if you wasted money, it’s also costing you your peace of mind to keep that stuff. So which is worth more right now?

For this season of life, I’m voting for time, energy and peace of mind over money.

Sentimental Items

With sentimental items, especially things that were passed down to you, don’t hold up each item and ask, Should I keep it? Should I get rid of it?

Step back from all of the stuff that was passed down to you from your grandma or your mom or your sibling or your late spouse, and ask, How do I want to honor this person? What was important to them? What do I remember about them?

Then of all of their things ask, What reminds me of them? What is really special? What was their most favorite? Pick that out and donate or sell the rest.

I love my grandma’s red tablecloth, because that specific item reminds me of my her. It reminds me of holidays at her house, and it makes me happy. That’s the perfect way for me to remember my grandma.

I also have a framed picture of her that I really love, but beyond that, I don’t need other stuff and physical items that were hers.

Pick out the very special items and find a place of honor for those in your home. Then you’ll find that it’s a bit easier to let the rest go.

free printable graphic with clutter background

Get the FREE printable here to remind yourself of these questions as you’re decluttering your house.

If decluttering is difficult, I hope that by asking different questions, you might find yourself being a lot more successful!

Of course, there will always be challenges when decluttering, and I would love to walk through these things together. Remember that you’re not alone!

Save this to Pinterest!

Robin’s Nest Easter Bundt Cake (EASY Spring Cake Recipe!)

By Dawn, Recipe Box, The Minimal Mom

This Easter Robin’s Nest Bundt Cake recipe will be the talk of your holiday celebration! An easy milk chocolate bundt cake (quickly) transforms into a robin’s nest with a little frosting and candy eggs…the Easter bunny will definitely be stopping by to check it out! [Read more…] about Robin’s Nest Easter Bundt Cake (EASY Spring Cake Recipe!)

How I keep Christmas Organized (with Free Printable!)

By Dawn, Christmas, Effective Living, The Minimal Mom

The Holidays can get overwhelming QUICKLY! When that happens I like to do a brain dump into my handy dandy Christmas Notebook!

Most times of the year I can get by with digital planning, but when it comes to Christmas, there are too many balls in the air! So having a notebook where I can keep track of it ALL has been a game changer! [Read more…] about How I keep Christmas Organized (with Free Printable!)

Best Advent Devotionals for Adults & Families

By Dawn, Christmas, Effective Living, The Minimal Mom

I don’t like to critique books because I think authors are so talented and work so hard on their writings…but I did want to share my favorite advent devotionals with you this year!

Here’s what I’m looking for in a devotional:
– I want to learn more about the life of Jesus
– I want to feel inspired and hopeful
– I want to look forward to reading it each day

So here they are! My favorite advent devotionals for individuals and families in order that I like them:

My Favorite Christmas Devotionals (in order!)

My Favorite for Individuals: Jesus Calling for Christmas by Sarah Young

Cost: from $6.95 used
Description: Jesus Calling^® for Christmas is a compilation of 50 seasonally appropriate devotions from Sarah Young’s bestselling brand. In addition to the heartwarming devotions, enjoy scriptures about the Christmas story and exquisite seasonal images.

What I like about it:
– I really (really) like that this is written from the perspective of Jesus talking to me. For me, it causes the text to feel very personal and resonate in a way that other devotions haven’t.
– I love that it starts with the devotional then lists out the full scripture reference
– I love that it is BEAUTIFUL to look at!
– And it doesn’t have dates or day numbers, so I never feel behind
– It has a ribbon book mark

I would highly recommend this devotional for anyone and as a wonderful gift!

Favorite for Families: Advent Devotions & Christmas Crafts for Families by Victoria Duerstock

Cost: from $12.16 used
Description: Victoria Duerstock wants to support families in their desire to make Christ the focus of all their celebrations this Christmas. Each day of this family devotional includes not only a Scripture and short short reflection for the twenty-four days leading up to Christmas, but also inviting full-color images and simple Christmas crafts that can be done as you focus on the rich meaning of this season. Find easy-to-follow instructions for:

Stained Glass Ornaments
Cinnamon Oatmeal Soap
Mason Jar Luminaries
Homemade Marshmallows
Scrap Ribbon Tree Ornaments
And many more!

Each devotional through the four weeks of Advent is focused on the themes of Hope, Preparation, Joy, and Love and is meant to be read with the entire family, or by the older child who needs something just for them in this special season.

What I like about it: If you are looking for meaningful devotions and really cool crafts to do with your kids, this is it!! Adeline couldn’t get enough of this book and began making a supply list right away for all that we’ll need.
– The devotions are meaningful and still appropriate for kids
– I love the discussion questions that go along with each
– I appreciate that the craft projects are really nice and not “corny” :)

Looking forward to using this as part of our homeschool this Christmas season!

Unwrapping the Names of Jesus by Asheritah Ciuciu

Cost: from $9.99 used
Description:

In Unwrapping the Names of Jesus, Asheritah Ciuciu leads readers through the four weeks of Advent (Hope, Preparation, Joy, and Love). Each week:

Begins with an interactive family devotional that equips readers to celebrate Advent together
Offers five daily reflections that focus on that week’s name of Jesus
Includes suggestions for fun-filled family activities or service projects

This devotional can be used by readers in their own personal worship times or as a tool to engage in family worship during the busy holiday season. Either way, participants will gain a greater sense of awe and wonder at who Jesus is.

What I like about it: This is a really neat angle for an advent devotional, to explore the different names of Jesus and how they display his different characteristics.
– This can be done as a family or alone which is really cool!
– Each day has a devotional, challenge, prayer and verses for further study (you can go to their website to print extra materials, too)
– I like that it follows the weekly themes of advent: Hope, Preparation, Joy & Love and gives directions for the lighting of the advent candles
– It doesn’t have many pictures in it, but is still nice to look at

Family Ages: I think this would be best to do with upper elementary kids and older :)

In the Manger by Max Lucado

Cost: from $2.00 used
Description: Pastor and New York Times bestselling author Max Lucado invites readers to witness the birth of Christ as they’ve never seen it before, through twenty-five inspirational selections from his most popular books. Selections are taken from 3:16, God Came Near, The Applause of Heaven, and more.

While reading In the Manger you will stand in awe that:

The Author would enter his own story.
The Word would become flesh.
The Creator would become creation.

Join Mary and Joseph inside a stable, beside a shepherd, at the feet of the King in the manger.

What I like about it: I love that this devotional can appeal to men and women alike, as well as those who are newer to their faith and those more experienced. Max Lucado has a gentle way of convicting and inspiring that causes hope to rise up and I think we all need a little more of that this Christmas season!

My Utmost for His Highest by Oswald Chambers

Cost: from $1.99 used
Description: Oswald Chambers wanted all people to have a life-changing encounter with Jesus Christ. Chambers could take the Scriptures, ask probing questions, and ignite a passion in people to want to know God better. Let these 366 thought-provoking meditations, in this updated-language edition, challenge you to be the person that God designed you to be.

What I like about it: This was the first devotional I ever owned, and while it isn’t specific to Christmas, I believe you find the devotionals that come up during the Christmas seasonal to be beautiful, challenging and inspiring!

If you’re looking for a devotional to use year round– this is it!

Our Hope and Expectation

Cost: Free on Kindle! And beginning at $1.99 in print
Description: Our Hope and Expectation explores the Advent season and celebrates the joy of the twelve days of Christmas and the day of Epiphany. It includes daily devotions based on year B scripture readings (in the Revised Common Lectionary) for Sundays and festival days between the first Sunday of Advent (November 29, 2020) and Epiphany (January 6, 2021). In addition to devotions, the book offers household blessings and prayers to enrich your preparations and celebrations.

What I like about it: I found this devotional to be a little more academic, but also had more scriptures to read throughout it, so if that appeals to you, I think you’ll really like it!

The Way to the Manger by Jeff & Abbey Land

Cost: Around $11.99
Description: The Way to the Manger engages families with the biblical truth of Christmas through twenty-five Advent devotions that redirect children and families to their need for a Savior and the amazing gift of Jesus Christ. Sure to become a keepsake that is revisited year after year, this book also provides talking points and activities for families to enjoy together, bringing the focus of Christmas back to Jesus and family time.

What I like about it: This book is BEAUTIFUL! The writing, the stories…I’m thinking we’ll do this one, too!!

The Advent Storybook by Laura Richie

Cost: from $9.99 used
Description: Add The Advent Storybook to your family holiday traditions and enjoy the rich images and thoughtful retellings of ancient stories that feature God’s recurring, faithful promise to rescue us. A simple question at the end of each story helps readers engage in understanding the bigger story God wants us all to know—the good news of Jesus coming to save us. Parents and children alike will delight in the biblical messages of joy, hope, and peace every day as they look forward to celebrating Jesus’ birth.

What I like about it: I really appreciate how they tie together stories from both the Old Testament and the New Testament to give an idea of how it all ties together. I found the illustrations to be a little dark, but otherwise appreciated that there is a scripture with each day and that the stories are fairly concise :)

Unwrapping the Greatest Gift: A Family Celebration of Christmas by Ann Voskamp

Cost: from $7.98 used
Description: With vivid, full-color illustrations, downloadable ornaments, and moving scenes from the Bible, this book is a gift your whole family can experience each day leading up to Christmas.

Devotions by Ann Voskamp, bestselling author
Daily Scripture readings
Discussion questions
Meaningful Advent activities
Beautiful illustrations

Person by person, story by story, retrace the lineage of Jesus. Fall in love with Him all over again as you experience God’s plan of salvation for us―from the Garden of Eden to the manger and beyond.

What I like about it: I really wanted to love this book, because I have really enjoyed and appreciated Ann Voskamp’s other writings, but this one isn’t our favorite. Some of the stories didn’t seem geared to young kids and I found myself editing some of it as I read it.

I like many of the other options better for a family devotional!