I’d like to introduce you to my friend Kendra at New Life on a Homestead.  Kendra is an inspiration to me, as she strives to live a frugal and simple life while creating a homestead for her family.  Today she’s sharing her journey to a simpler life on their homestead. Only three years ago, my husband and I were living a dramatically different life. We were renting a noisy apartment in the middle of town, he was working his full time job and I was keeping kids during the day so that I could stay home with our four year old daughter and newborn son. We were very frugal, yes, but in such a mainstream way. We didn’t shop at the mall, but bought our clothes second hand. We didn’t own a new car. Actually, we only had one vehicle which my husband had most of the day. We used coupons for groceries and toiletries. We did what we could to save money… but there was always something bigger that seemed to be missing. On a warm Spring day in [...]

The other day I was cleaning in my kitchen and I realized that our stainless steel dishwasher was looking pretty bad.  I think stainless steel appliances are beautiful, but after having a stainless steel dishwasher and refrigerator, I think next time I’d go with just plain white or black.  Stainless steel is a pain to keep clean! It attracts fingerprints, dust, and if you get water stains on it, forget it.  Those are so hard to get out.  Luckily, after three years of cleaning stainless steel appliances, I have found the best way for cleaning stainless steel.  Of course, you know it would have to be a safe and natural alternative to stinky chemicals! How to Clean Stainless Steel Appliances Naturally -Olive oil & a soft cloth. This is the tried and true method that works for me, and I know you’re going to be baffled when you hear what it is.  I use some olive oil and an old prefold cloth diaper that my mom picked up at a thrift store. What I do is dab a small amount [...]

I’m over at Savings.com today blogging about Ways to Reuse Old Coffee Grounds. Be sure to stop on over and say hi!