Hello Friends!   I am thankful to be able to do what I love every single day! I had to go back to what I love as I could go in many different directions since I am so multipassionate with undiagnosed ADHD.  I enjoy working 2 hours a day with my business, but I had so many other people reaching out and wanting me to coach them to make money online and that really wasn’t my passion, it is a portion of it I love though! My passion is simplicity and having a flexible schedule to enjoy the things I love.  I absolutely enjoy teaching my homesteading and cooking from scratch skills to beginners that have no idea how easy it is. Both in person and online, but I also am passionate about working with my hands - Getting in the dirt, making bread and being available when my goats and pigs are birthing.   I enjoy teaching you as a busy working mom to save money so you can eventually be at home raising their own kids because I don’t believe there is a more important job~especially in the days we are in.  I enjoy showing you there is a better way and you don’t have to keep up with the Jones. You have your own skills to share and it is fun to learn from each other. I know friend if you just sit and listen, you will get direction so you can enjoy every single day.   If you are interested in joining a group of like minded Moms, you are welcome here.  I will be opening up this group soon, so get on the list below!   Simply Set Society -> https://stan.store/ClaimingSimplicity   Living Simply!~Monica

Hello!   I just wanted to catch you up to let you know that I am still here and all is good! Winners, email me to claim your amazon gift cards!!!! Blessings! Monic Email -> monica@claimingsimplicity.com Instagram -> https://www.instagram.com/claimingsimplicity/    

Hello! I was thinking back to my life when I was stressed out and overwhelmed. It felt like everything was hard and even little tasks seemed difficult.  I don’t ever want to go back to that and I want you to know that even as overwhelmed as you may feel right now, there is a way out.  You feel overwhelmed and stressed out when your priorities are out of whack and your time spent is doing things that aren't your top values.     Before you start to change your life to living simpler, you have to really know how you want to live and what really matters most to you.  For me, flexibility and freedom to spend time with family and grandkids making memories and making sure they know Jesus is a top priority for me, so being able to send them to camp and go to family camp for 10 days in the summer is very important to me along with being able to help them grow in their faith.     I also value living a natural life and being as self-sufficient or self-relient as we can by growing our own food and animals and teaching the next generation of the importance of canning and preserving food in different ways like freeze drying, but I certainly didn’t start there when I began this simple living journey.     I was in my early 20s with 3 young kids when I learned how to preserve green beans and tomato sauce by a neighbor I babysat for as a teenager, but I did not grow up with a garden or preserving any food, so no matter whether you did or didn’t learn these skills, there are so many resources to learn from with the internet and you just have to make time for it.  I did grow up on a farm and I did have chores in the barn to do, some cooking, but I was also involved in sports and many other activities at school, so I was rarely home after I hit 12 years old.     So after you decide what is important to you, start to minimize the things in your life that are NOT important to you.  As you start to minimize the less important items, you will start to be able to breathe easier and feel less overwhelmed.  Once you begin to feel less stressed, it will be addicting to do more to minimize the things in your life that are less important.  I am not talking about only minimizing physical items, but schedules and where you spend your time.     I am so excited for you to begin your simple living journey if you have not!  Monica Email -> monica@claimingsimplicity.com You Tube -> https://www.youtube.com/@claimingsimplicity/     

Hello Friend! Today, we’re talking about one of the most basic, yet powerful, ways to nourish your family—homemade bread! If sourdough sounds like too much work right now, don’t worry. I’ve got you covered with super simple homemade bread recipes that anyone can make—even on a busy schedule. This is one of the simplest places to start to provide more nourishing food for your family.   I started making bread once I looked at the ingredients and most of them I couldn’t pronounce, I had no idea how simple it was to make and I simplified the process to only make once or twice a month! There are so many health benefits to making your own bread.  There are no preservatives, additives, or unnecessary sugar like store-bought bread. You control the ingredients—organic flour, natural sweeteners, and real butter if you choose! Easier to digest and more filling than processed bread. Not to mention how amazing your house will smell!!!!!   It is also budget friendly and costs pennies per loaf compared to store-bought artisan bread and when you buy bulk ingredients you will save money over time! Batch cooking will save you time! Homemade bread doesn’t have to be complicated. Just start with one simple recipe, and before you know it, you’ll never want store-bought again!  Try to make at least one loaf this week and you will be hooked!  Reach out if you would like any of my recipes!

Hey Friend Today, I’m sharing a few of my favorite non-toxic DIY essential oil recipes that will help you ditch the chemicals and start to create a healthier home—without the overwhelm! Switching to non-toxic DIY products isn’t just a trendy idea—it’s a powerful way to take control of your family’s health, save money, and create a safer home. Here’s why it’s so important: Most conventional cleaning and personal care products contain harmful toxins like synthetic fragrances, parabens, and harsh preservatives and these chemicals have been linked to: Hormone disruption Skin irritation and allergies Respiratory issues (especially for kids & those with asthma) Long-term health risks, including reproductive concerns DIY essential oil recipes allow you to ditch the toxins while still keeping your home fresh, clean, and safe. Non-toxic doesn’t have to mean expensive! Most DIY recipes use simple, affordable ingredients you probably already have—like vinegar, baking soda, and Castile soap—along with a few drops of essential oils. A single bottle of essential oil can replace dozens of chemical-laden products. You can make bulk batches for pennies per use, saving tons of money over time. Most commercial products labeled as “fresh” or “clean” actually contain synthetic fragrances that can trigger headaches, allergies, and even disrupt hormones and with essential oils, you get: Natural scents from plants—without the toxins The ability to customize your blends based on preference (love lavender? Add more!). About 25 years ago I went to a class where we made a few of our own DIY products like bug spray, laundry detergent and after learning how safe and economical it was, that is all I have used since then.  There are still a few items I continue to find my favorite recipes for, but these are the first 5 I started with. The ingredients you will need are Essential oils (I only use Doterra because I know they are pure because all batches are tested)  I will put the link in the notes if you want to learn more. Base ingredients like carrier oils, baking soda, vinegar Simple tools  like spray bottles, glass jar or mason jar) Laundry Detergent-I love the simplicity of the ingredients and how easy it is to make.  I was making a different kind with a felz nappa bar of soap shredded into the recipe and after a long time using it-I’m not sure how long, it clogged up our washer hose and my husband told me I couldn’t use homemade laundry soap anymore, but now that I have this recipe, we haven’t had any trouble.  It just has epsom salt, baking soda, washing soda, sea salt and essential oils.  Linen Spray which is just witch hazel and essential oils.  I love fresh scents, but you can choose any you enjoy! Toilet cleaner that is just vinegar, baking soda and essential oils. Glass cleaner with water, vinegar and essential oils. And our most used recipe is the foaming hand soap.  I have never found any soap that compares to this soap and it is only castile soap and essential oils.  I’m guessing you will love it as well! I know that I have saved hundreds of dollars over the years, possibly even thousands and I’m all about saving money but even more so being confident that I’m helping with my family's health and using less toxins. I challenge you to try just one recipe this week-I do have a free ebook with exact recipes details &  additional recipes as well you can grab below in the show notes. Switching to non-toxic DIY isn’t about perfection—it’s about progress. Replacing just ONE chemical-heavy product with a homemade version is a step toward a healthier, safer home. Once you start, you’ll see how easy, fun, and rewarding it is!   Thanks for tuning in today.  God bless your week! Monica  

Hello Hello and Welcome!  If you are new here, I am so grateful you are joining us!  I am passionate about teaching simplicity in all areas of life to reduce stress and overwhelm for busy moms. Do you ever feel like life is spinning too fast? Like you’re juggling so much that you don’t even have time to catch your breath? I’ve been there too, and today I want to share seven things you can let go of this year to slow down, live intentionally, and embrace a simpler, more peaceful life. Saying “yes” to everything.  There was a time in my life over 25 years ago when I got totally burnt out.  I was working full time, putting on a benefit for a young boy in our community that was in a bad car accident along with raising my own small children with their busy schedules. I remember the feeling of hardly being able to function up to the event and then crashing after the event.  It took me some time for me to recover & at that point I realized what stress does to a person’s body.  Thankly that was short term, but you may be living in chronic stress and that can affect you physically and mentally if you don’t get that under control, so I want you to start thinking about what you are saying yes to.  There are many ways to say politely no like-thanks for thinking of me, but at this time I can’t take on anything new or something to that extent. What is one thing you’ve said yes to recently that might be adding unnecessary stress to your life? Could you practice saying no this week? Toxic relationships or negativity.  You do not need the stress of those people, so do your best to let go of those relationships.  Spend more time with the people you love to be around.  Life is short to waste time with those people.  Think about the relationships in your life. Which ones bring you joy, and which ones drain your energy?  In Proverbs 4:23, it says,‘Above all else, guard your heart, for everything you do flows from it. Protecting your peace is not selfish—it’s essential for living joyfully and intentionally. Comparing your life to others or social media.  You have a different story and experiences than any other person, so you should not be comparing yourself to anyone at all.  You are unique in your own way and a child of God and daughter of the King.  Rest in that.  Clothes you haven’t worn in a year.  Let them go…..if you haven’t worn them in that time, you probably won’t ever wear them.  Last year, I went through my closet and found clothes I hadn’t touched in a while. I donated them, and not only did it declutter my space, but it felt good knowing someone else could use them. Constant phone notifications.  Do you look at your phone every time it buzzes?  Go into each app and turn off notifications.  What value does it bring you to have those notifications on?  Without them, you may discover more peace and less anxiety.  People don’t need an immediate response to anything!  Well….other than an emergency!  I typically keep my phone away from me while I’m working so I can be in the zone without interruptions which makes for more productivity in less time.  That is one key to getting things done. Overpacked schedules.  This goes along with saying yes to everything and packing so much into your schedule.  Make sure you have rest and recovery time planned.  You can’t sustain stress long term without it creating havoc somewhere, so be very mindful of your schedule. The need for perfection.  You are perfect in God’s eyes and that is all that matters!   Remember Psalm 139:14: I praise you because I am fearfully and wonderfully made. You don’t need to strive for perfection—God has already made you perfectly unique. As we step further into this year, I challenge you to pick just one of these things to let go of. Maybe it’s saying no to something that’s not aligned with your values, or maybe it’s turning off those pesky notifications. Whatever it is, take that first step toward living with more intention and simplicity. And remember, God is

Hello Friend 1. Know Your Purpose One thing that sets unbusy people apart is that they are crystal clear about their purpose. They’ve taken the time to figure out what really matters to them—what legacy they want to leave, what goals they want to pursue, and how they want to spend their days. When you know your purpose, you gain clarity. It becomes easier to filter out distractions because you know what to say yes to—and more importantly, what to say NO to. Take a moment to ask yourself: What’s my mission in this season of life? What goals truly align with the life I want to create? When you’re guided by a clear purpose, you’ll find it easier to resist the countless opportunities and demands pulling at you daily. You’ll stay focused on what matters most. 2. Remember: Busyness is a Choice This one’s a tough pill to swallow, but it’s empowering. Busyness is a choice. Yes, there are external demands on your time—jobs, parenting, commitments—but ultimately, you decide how to structure your days. Even when life feels overwhelming, you still have the ability to take control of your schedule. Maybe that means saying no to extra obligations that don’t align with your priorities. Or maybe it means reassessing whether the things keeping you “busy” are really worth the energy you’re giving them. You are not a victim of busyness. You are in control. 3. Value Rest as an Essential We live in a culture that treats rest like it’s a luxury, when really, it’s a necessity. Rest is not laziness—it’s what allows you to recharge and show up as the best version of yourself for the people and things you care about most. Think about it: Rest improves our health, strengthens relationships, reduces stress, and even makes us more productive. But if we don’t intentionally make space for it, rest gets crowded out by the busyness of life. Here’s your reminder to build rest into your routine: Take five minutes in the morning to pray, meditate or just breathe deeply before diving into the day. Schedule downtime for yourself and your family, whether that’s a Sunday afternoon at home or a full Sabbath day of rest. Guard these moments of margin as fiercely as you would any other important commitment. I am usually in bed by 9 and natural wake up around 5:00, that might change a little on weekends, but I make 8 hours a priority as I know the significance of sleep and the role it plays in all areas of our lives. Rest is not a reward for finishing your to-do list. It’s the fuel that keeps you moving forward with intention and clarity.   Remember, busyness is not inevitable—it’s a decision you make. And when you choose to prioritize purpose, embrace your power to say no, and make rest a non-negotiable, you can unbusy your life and create space for what truly matters. So let me ask you: What’s one thing you can let go of this week to create more margin in your life? Put it into practice, and see how it shifts your mindset and your days. I can’t wait to hear! God Bless! Monica  

Hey Friend If you want to simplify your life in 2025, you will want to start with these 5 steps.   You need to determine what is really important to you.  I think this is the best place to start because if you are unable to envision how you TRUELY want to live your life, you will just stay on the chaotic hamster wheel you have been on and won’t ever get off.  You need direction to know where you are going. Next, Look at where your time is spent.  Compare that to your values and what is important to you.  If this is off, you will be stressed out all the time and it will be hard to get to a simple life with such overwhelm.  This may be a real eye opening experience for you and this is what you will need to work on.  Once your time matches up with your values, you will start to feel the peace in your life. After that, you will ask yourself what do you want for your life? Is it clear? Do you want to continue to live as you do now?  Does your life feel full of happiness or do you need to make some changes?  Are you working for material items or are you working because you absolutely love what you do?  I absolutely love being a nurse, but I enjoy being casual so I can pick up around my family's schedule.  My family is a higher priority than work, so living a simple life is putting time with them above time working for someone else.  This is another reason I started my own businesses-some of my values are freedom and flexibility and I didn’t get that with a 9-5 job. Next figure out what you need to do to help you move closer to that dream life.  Little by little, you can make changes to get to that life you want to live every single day. It does take intention and it can be scary to make changes, but you will be so happy if you are following God’s will and what he wants for you and not your own.  Prayer is the ultimate tool in this process.  Lastly, you need to know WHY you want to live a simpler life and be more intentional.  Is it because you are tired of being stressed out and overwhelmed?  Is it because you want peace?  Once you know why, you are more likely to make lasting change.     Make sure you go through these questions and I would love to hear where you are planning to make changes!     Make God your first priority & make sure you are taking time to listen! Website and Waitlist: Claimingsimplicity.com Email -> monica@claimingsimplicity.com Love Ya! Monica  

Hey Friend!   This might be our last episode of 2024, so thank you for joining me!  It is all about the simplicity of our homestead, update on simple and intentional living and what I have planned for you in 2025! I pray your simple journey in life is to put Jesus first, then family and whatever God has for you to keep your priorities in order! Here are the links to follow for more!!!!!  Please follow and subscribe! Join the free challenge -> https://stan.store/ClaimingSimplicity/ You Tube -> https://www.youtube.com/@claimingsimplicity/  Instagram -> https://www.instagram.com/claimingsimplicity/ Email -> monica@claimingsimplicity.com   Blessing & Merry Christmas! Monica   

Hello Friend Want an extra income -> https://www.claimingsimplicity.co/ Do you find that every time you go to the grocery store, you spend more than you budget?  The food prices continue to rise and I want to give you some simple ideas today to start saving on groceries right now.  Depending on where you live in the world, you may be able to start a garden and that is my #1 way to save money on food.  You can have healthy food without any pesticides when you grow it yourself and that can sustain you for several months of the year depending on your season and how much you can preserve. We try to eat seasonally as much as possible to save money on food, but that wasn’t always the case for me when we didn’t source our own chicken, eggs, pork and milk.  Another thing that saves our family alot of money is hunting as we usually get several deer and sometimes bear.  In the summer and winter we also catch as much fresh water fish as possible too. Enjoy the episode and let me know your favorite ways to save money on food! Monica Email me at monica@claimingsimplicity.com    

Hey Friend Simple Passive Income-> https://www.claimingsimplicity.co/ Take a moment to think about this: What would your life look like if you had complete freedom over your time, resources, and choices? Maybe it’s more time with your family, the ability to give more generously, or the freedom to travel.  In the Bible Proverbs 29:18 says, Where there is no vision, the people perish.  It’s so important that we define our vision before anything else, because without it, we’re just going through the motions. Now that you've got a vision, it’s time to create an income stream that supports that vision. I’ve talked before about the power of passive income, and I’ll say it again—having an income stream that doesn’t trade time for money is a game changer.  In fact, I believe we all should have multiple income streams.  I will do a podcast all about that soon! Whether it's an online business, digital marketing, or a system you can work on just 2 hours a day, the point is to build something that gives you both income and freedom. I will link my favorite income stream in the show notes if you want to check it out!  No pressure in this business at all, but I’m here if you do have any questions at all! Matthew 25:14-30—the parable of the talents—teaches us the value of investing our resources wisely. You’ve been given skills, talents, and opportunities to create wealth not just for yourself, but for God’s Kingdom. Your business, when aligned with God’s purpose, will bless not only your family but others around you.  To me, it is such a blessing to be able to help others~especially in the economy we are living in now. Abundance isn't about more; it’s about better. It’s about focusing on what truly matters. Step three is to simplify your life. Take inventory of how you spend your time, your energy, and your money. What can you cut out that is cluttering your life? I love how the Bible has so many good verses about how we are to live. God has given us resources to manage, whether it’s our time, money, or relationships. Step four is about stewardship.  Proverbs 21:5 tells us, The plans of the diligent lead surely to abundance, but everyone who is hasty comes only to poverty. This means creating a budget, planning how to grow your resources, and making decisions that are thoughtful and prayerful. When you become a good steward of the resources God has given you, you’ll see those resources multiply, and you’ll be in a better position to bless others. Finally, step five is where everything comes together—use your abundance to impact others. Abundance isn’t meant to stop with us. God blesses us so that we can bless others.  2 Corinthians 9:8 says, And God is able to bless you abundantly, so that in all things at all times, having all that you need, you will abound in every good work. Once you’re living in abundance, ask yourself how you can use your resources, time, and energy to serve others. Maybe it's supporting a ministry, mentoring someone, or giving generously to causes that are close to your heart." Remember, true abundance comes when we align our lives with God’s purpose, and we take intentional steps toward creating freedom, not just for ourselves but for those around us. Have a blessed friend! ~Monica  

Hey Friend! Simple Passive Income-> https://www.claimingsimplicity.co/ Today, we’re diving into the heart of homestead life with three practical tips to help you simplify your daily routine. Whether you're raising animals, growing your own food, or just trying to balance cooking from scratch, homeschooling and  homestead tasks with family life, this episode is for you. Tip 1: Streamline Chores by Creating a Rotating Schedule One of the most common challenges on the homestead is managing the never-ending list of daily chores. The key to simplifying your routine is to stop treating everything as a daily emergency. Instead, break your chores down into manageable chunks by creating a rotating schedule. For example, feed the animals and collect eggs daily, but stagger larger tasks like garden maintenance, deep cleaning animal pens, moving fencing or preserving food. This helps you focus on only what needs to be done each day, rather than trying to do everything at once. It’s also a way to involve the whole family, assigning specific days to different tasks. Think of it like meal planning—once it’s written out, it’s one less thing to think about." Tip 2: Invest in Time-Saving Tools "One of the easiest ways to simplify your homesteading life is by investing in the right tools. Not every task should be manual—there are tools and technologies that can save hours of time and energy. A good drip irrigation system, an automatic chicken door, or even something as simple as a wagon for hauling feed can drastically cut down on time spent doing repetitive tasks. I know one thing that will be priority next year is setting up a no maintenance garden because the no till option did not work out so well for me, but at least I tried! This may seem like an upfront expense, but remember: time is money, especially when you’re balancing so many responsibilities on the homestead. What tools can you implement today to shave off 10-20 minutes of your daily routine?  Tip 3: Group Similar Tasks Together Another great way to simplify your homestead routine is by grouping similar tasks together. Instead of running back and forth across your property all day, make the most of your time by batching your activities. If you're headed to the garden to harvest vegetables, bring along any tools you might need for weeding or mulching. When you check on your animals in the morning, bring their feed and fresh water with you. Grouping tasks can be a huge time saver and prevent you from feeling overwhelmed by the number of tasks that come with homesteading. Plus, it helps you stay focused and more efficient in everything you do and I am the queen of streamlining and simplifying.  I’m sure my husband will be happy when our set up here is complete…..I’m not sure it ever will be completely, but if something isn’t running smooth or isn’t efficient -especially in the long winters we have here-I change it up to be more simplified.  We will be going into winter with at least 12 piglets-unless we deliver anymore from a pig that got in with the boar 1 day, but so far she isn’t looking pregnant. We also have 5 grown pigs, 13 goats, and about 30or so chickens, so it has to be efficient with this amount of animals. Homesteading doesn’t have to be overwhelming. With a few simple strategies, like a rotating schedule, time-saving tools, and grouping tasks, you can lighten your load and enjoy the lifestyle you’ve worked so hard to build. Simplifying isn’t about cutting corners—it’s about working smarter, not harder, so you can spend more time doing the things that matter most. Thank you for joining me today. If you found these tips helpful, be sure to share this episode with a fellow homesteader, and stay tuned for more content on simplifying your life while creating a more sustainable future. ~Monica

Hey Friend! Simple Passive Income-> https://www.claimingsimplicity.co/ Today,  we dive deep into what it means to truly live for God’s purpose in every area of our lives. We are going to explore a powerful truth: Money means nothing if you don’t know what you’re going to do with it. If our hearts aren’t aligned with God’s Kingdom, even financial success can feel empty. So let’s talk about creating an impact that lasts, not just in this life but in eternity." Matthew 6:19-21 (NIV):Do not store up for yourselves treasures on earth, where moths and vermin destroy, and where thieves break in and steal. But store up for yourselves treasures in heaven, where moths and vermin do not destroy, and where thieves do not break in and steal. For where your treasure is, there your heart will be also. We live in a world that tells us success is measured by our bank account or the things we own. But Jesus flips that on its head. He reminds us that true wealth is found in heavenly treasures, not earthly ones. What are those heavenly treasures? It’s the impact we make in the lives of others, the love we give, the way we bring God's Kingdom to earth.  This may convict you as you look at the amount you give to God’s Kingdom.  Money is not evil, but what you do with your money matters.  As you give freely, God gives freely.  We have seen this over and over again.  If we are praying about how much to give in a certain situation and the Holy Spirit gives a large number that seems out of reach to give to something. God always returns it in different ways as we listen and are obedient. Do not be someone that clenches your fist closed, but someone that lives with an open hand of generosity…..that is when you will see money easily flow in and flow out. We live frugally so we can give freely.  I don’t care if I have new vehicles or material items as trying to impress others isn’t my jam~I would rather be walking the straight, narrow, and obedient path with God because that is really the only way to find real lasting peace and joy. Let’s get real for a moment. Money can provide comfort and security, but it’s not the end goal. If we chase wealth without knowing why we want it, we can easily lose sight of what’s truly important. As Christians, we need to ask ourselves: How are we using our resources—whether time, talent, or money—for God’s glory? Luke 16:10 (NIV) says, Whoever can be trusted with very little can also be trusted with much, and whoever is dishonest with very little will also be dishonest with much.' This teaches us that it’s not about how much you have; it’s about how you use what God has given you. Like I said before~Money in itself isn’t evil. It’s a tool. It can be used for good, to bless others, to grow ministries, to support families in need. But if we’re not intentional about making a Kingdom impact, that tool can become a trap. The real question is: What impact are you making? Are we using your resources to spread the gospel, to serve others and to make the world a reflection of God’s love? In Proverbs 11:25, it says, A generous person will prosper; whoever refreshes others will be refreshed.' When we focus on pouring into others, God pours back into us. So how do we start creating a Kingdom impact with the resources we have? Here are a few  practical steps: Align Your Finances with Your Faith:Make sure you’re giving back—whether it’s to your church, missionaries, or charitable causes. Tithing is more than just a financial transaction; it’s a declaration that God comes first. Invest in People, Not Things:Use your resources to lift others up. This could be by mentoring someone, giving to those in need, or simply being there for people in your community. Your time is just as valuable as your money. Pray for Wisdom:James 1:5 tells us to ask for wisdom, and God will provide it generously. Pray for discernment in how you manage your resources and where God is calling you to invest for His Kingdom." There was a time in my life

Hello Friend   Info to change your financial future -> https://www.claimingsimplicity.co/   I pray this podcast reaches ears all around the world to create a better life for yourself, so I know that you are here for a reason.   Last week, I listened to a friend tell me she couldn’t stay home with her baby because she had to work, so she will have to put this child in daycare even though she would love to be home raising her own kids.  I have been there!  I remember when I had 3 kids under 3 in daycare and the mom guilt was so real.  I cried when my 3 year old son chased me out of the daycare’s driveway one day and that is when I made significant changes in my family’s life.     We simplified and I started working from home so I could bring in an income, but also be with my kids.  That was a great option then, but I sure wish I would have known about working an online business way back then because I was still trading time for money then.  That was over 25 years ago, so that is why I am a simple living expert~it was years of trials! If I would have stayed in that same accounting job throughout the years, I would have had many regrets and missed out on many memories and milestones.  I don’t know about you, but I don’t want regrets as I age.  I had to go from what is called normal (working a job full time) into creating a path that some others may have thought was a mistake.  Now I am enjoying freedom and time with Grandkids during the week that I wouldn’t have been able to if I was still in that dead end job trading time for money.  Life is short~make the best of it!   I wouldn’t change anything in my past as it has made me who I am and we live a pretty extraordinary life, so I have no complaints, but I realized that if you have a mindset to change, you will change your life.  If you keep doing what you have been doing, you will keep getting what you have been getting.  It takes courage and a positive mindset that can take anything negative and turn it into a positive thought.     If you are someone that thinks they can’t do something, you will get that outcome!  You get what you think about!     This week, I want you to think of something you don’t think you can do, and think about and start visioning yourself doing that one thing.  Put a note in your pocket or something that can remind you to think about that positively throughout the day and continue this every single day until you start making solutions.  You can change your life by changing your thoughts and I am super excited for what is to come for you friend if you put this into practice.   Just something I was thinking about today, so wanted to share it here.     Have a beautiful rest of the week and put this into action!! ~Monica  

Hey friend! Here is the info to take control of your future ->https://www.claimingsimplicity.co/ I know if you are here, you are trying to live a simpler life! #1 Tip for more peace on today's episode! In a world that seems so out of control right now, you can have peace and live with less stress.We all know God has a plan and He is the one in control, but thre are steps you can do to plan for your own future and that may include you making some changes like starting an online business so you can work from home. Being able to be somewhat self reliant on our farm as much as possible might be a necessity in the near future, so being prepared for that is important to our family and might be something you think about as well but it can be stressful just thinking about it. Psalm 29:11.  The Lord gives strength to his people, the Lord blesses his people with peace. Love ya friend! Monica  

Hey friend How to Make Simple Passive Income-> https://www.claimingsimplicity.co/ If you’re like me, you’ve probably thought long and hard about how to balance making an income and raising your kids. We know the world is full of influences that don’t always align with our faith, and for many of you listening, homeschooling your children is a big priority because it allows you to disciple them in the way you believe God is calling you to. But how do you balance it all? What if I told you that you could work only 2 hours a day, create a passive income stream, and spend the rest of your time pouring into your kids? What if you could live out your values, homeschool your children, and still provide for your family without having to trade hours for dollars? In today’s episode, we’re going to explore exactly how that’s possible, and by the end, you’ll understand why this might just be the answer you’ve been praying for. Let’s be honest for a moment. I know many of you out there are struggling to find balance. You want to be present for your children, to homeschool them, to teach them about God and life, but the reality of needing an income feels like a weight on your shoulders. You’re working long hours, or maybe your spouse is working long hours, and you wonder:'Is this the life we really want?' You might feel like you’re missing out on some of the most important moments in your kids’ lives, or perhaps you’re worried that outside influences will pull them away from the values you’re working so hard to instill. Trust me, I get it. The pull between providing financially and being there emotionally and spiritually is real. But what if there was a way to do both? What if you didn’t have to choose between making an income and raising your children in the way you know God is calling you to?” Here’s the good news: You don’t have to choose. I’m about to tell you about a way to build a stream of income that allows you to spend more time with your family and live out your faith. And the best part? It only takes 2 hours a day. Imagine this: You wake up, you start your day with devotionals with your kids, maybe some homeschooling lessons, and after a couple of hours of work, you’re done for the day. The rest of the day is yours to spend with your family, working on things that matter to you, without the stress of a 9-to-5 job. And yet, your income keeps coming in. I want to bless you in what ever way I can.  Please reach out with any questions. Simple Passive Income-> https://www.claimingsimplicity.co/ Pinterest -> https://pin.it/4ulAVwr You Tube -> https://www.youtube.com/@claimingsimplicity/  Email -> monica@claimingsimplicity.com Blessings! Monica

9-10-24 EP 186 // Freeze Drying Experience and 3 Tips to Prepare for Winter Simple Passive Income-> https://www.claimingsimplicity.co/ Welcome back to Claiming Simplicity where I like to keep everything as simple as I can so you can live a more fruitful life!  If we haven’t met, I’m Monica H Baker and I’m just a small town girl, just soaking up every minute on this earth doing God’s Will and helping as many people create an intentional life, homesteading and enjoy all God has created for us! We have been busy here harvesting our food that has done quite well over the summer……I am now on my 2 batch of freeze dryer items and so far I am absolutely loving the ease of freeze drying food verses canning.  I do love canning though and I have done quite a bit this season as well, but it takes a little more time than freeze drying. Some of the items I have used in my freeze dryer so far are sweet corn, carrots, apples, pickle chips, and peppers.  I really like that I don’t have to make space in the cupboard for jars, the food has more nutrition that canning or dehydrating, it is simple and it will stay good for several years!!!!!! Now that we have it and it is set up, I can say it is very nice and we are going to be running as much as we can in the next month.     We have such a short growing season here, everything is ready at the same time, so there is such a short window of time to get everything harvested and so I want to give you 3 tips if that is where you are at right now as well.   One of my best tips is if you have room in your freezer for tomatoes, wash them and cut out the top and freeze them and make all your tomato items in the winter when you have down time.  It is so slick when you take them out of the freezer and put in hot water and the skins just slip right off. Next, focus on the item that will spoil the quickest.  We like to wait with potatoes and carrots until the last thing as some of the produce like our sweet corn have to be processed right away as it doesn’t stay fresh very long. Do the processing together.  If you have friends and family that have food to process, it is not only very productive when you have more hands helping, but it is alot of fun.  Enjoy the process and thank God for it all!!!!   Have a blessed day and make sure to share this podcast with any of your friends that want to simplify life!

Hey Friend Simple Passive Income-> https://www.claimingsimplicity.co/ Today on our Freedom Friday episode, we’re diving deep into something that’s on everyone’s mind—financial security and freedom. If you’ve ever felt like your 9-5 paycheck just isn’t enough, or if you’ve been stressed about rising living costs, this episode is for you. We’re going to talk about why you need another income stream and, more importantly, how you can build a passive income stream in just 2 hours a day. Imagine waking up to money you made while you were sleeping.  Now, I’m not here to scare you, but the truth is—relying on just one paycheck is risky in today’s world. Even though we have always based our budget on 1 income, now we want to retire my husband early.  Inflation is rising, the cost of living keeps going up, and we all know someone who has lost a job unexpectedly. In fact, if the last few years have taught us anything, it’s that financial stability can disappear overnight.That’s why having multiple streams of income isn’t just a ‘nice-to-have’—it’s a necessity. Think of it as your financial safety net. If something happens to your main income, you have a backup plan. And hey, who doesn’t want a little extra cash flow on top of that regular paycheck? This isn’t about getting rich quick. It’s about securing your future and giving yourself options. Options like working less, spending more time with your family, or just living with less financial stress. Here’s the good news—it’s simpler than ever to build an income stream online, and it doesn’t take as much time as you might think. Seriously, 2 hours a day is all you need to get started. I’m talking about setting up systems that will generate income even when you’re not actively working. Think about amazon….it runs 24/7~and if you have an online business set up the right way, you can have passive income like that as well!  The best part? You can do this on your own schedule. Maybe you’ve got a full-time job, or you’re a busy parent—2 hours a day is manageable for most people, and you’ll be amazed at what you can accomplish in that time.  How many hours are you scrolling or watching TV?  Just give that up to eventually have the life you have dreamed of! God has really blessed us with an amazing opportunity that anyone can do if you have a phone or computer and I feel called to share it to everyone around the world as it is so SIMPLE but can FREE so many of you financially.  It is 90% set up for you and gives you step by step instructions with what you need to do, even I was able to figure it out!!!!! It is affordable to anyone no matter what your situation and you can profit within a couple days of setting it up.   It is 100% profit which is super exciting because it isn’t a MLM or network marketing which I love and you don’t have to sell to friends and family~in fact, they don’t even have to know what you are doing!!!!!!!!  They don’t even know that your “little side hustle” is making you more in a couple hours a day than their 60 hours per week they are working!!!!!  And there is the most amazing community of people doing the same thing and they are so supportive and helpful.  I don’t know of any downfalls at all~most exciting thing I have ever done to fund my homestead!!!!! Okay, now let’s get into the practical steps you can take right now to start building that income stream. If you’re listening and thinking, 'I don’t even know where to begin,' don’t worry. I’ve got you. Step 1: Go to the link in the show notes and sign up for the emails I send out to give you more information.  No spam ever and you can unsubscribe anytime if it isn’t for you! Step 2: Reach out to me if you have any questions!  This is 100% your own business, but you have a ton of support from me and others! Step 3: Follow the process!  It is simple and it works!!!!!!  If a simple girl like me can do it, so can you friend! Step 4: Automate. The beauty of passive income is that once it’s set up which they

Hello Friend! It sure is feeling like Fall here in MN already! Simple Passive Income-> https://www.claimingsimplicity.co/  Are you feeling overwhelmed with all of the activities and large to-do list at the end of summer and Fall?  I want to help you reduce some of those items so you can have a more peaceful and enjoyable season. First, I challenge you to delegate some of your workload.  For me, I always have thousands of ideas of things I want to do in my head, but if I am doing tasks that someone else could do, I never get around to putting my ideas into practice.  For me, I had to hire a teenager to help with produce because our garden this year wasn’t completely set up to be weed free like our ones in the past and so this has created extra unwanted work that I just don’t have time for.  I truely enjoy weeding my garden. I put on my favorite podcast or go out with the sunrise and pray for hours and hours.This is so relaxing for me, but I don’t always have hours of time to do that, so I need someone who can help with that.  I also have a teenager making sure my house stays clean and the dishes are done daily because I don’t want to waste my time on this when I can be creating or learning! We now focus on slow living and intentionally plan our days and weeks.  Don’t feel that you have to enroll your kids in everything, they need a break too.  Our kids need downtime to reduce stress just as much as adults.  There are so many demands put on kids these days that sometimes they don’t just get to be kids.  Make sure they are getting plenty of time outdoors.Next, look at your schedule and decide what you can eliminate. And last, making meal planning simple.  If you don’t grow your own garden, try to get to a farmers market in your area so you can eat seasonally.  Simple healthy cooking doesn’t need to take alot of time and can be made even simpler that you imagine.  Making food in bulk and freezer meals can be done on a rainy day or just plan 1 day a month so you don’t have to waste much time in the kitchen cooking.  Keep morning meals simple such as eggs, smoothies, or homemade yogurt you have batched in the fridge.  Lunch can be as simple as cheese and boiled eggs with some carrots and apples or salad or leftovers.  Finger foods are great for lunches and they do not take much time.  And your evening can be a dish with protein and vegetables.  Don’t overthink cooking from scratch or meal planning~shop local for fresh ingredients and build your meals from there. Chat next time! Monica    

Hey Friend!   Simple Passive Income-> https://www.claimingsimplicity.co/   Today, I want to talk about something that's been weighing on my heart—time freedom. In our fast-paced world, it's so easy to get caught up in the hustle and forget what truly matters. But what if I told you there’s a way to reclaim your time, spend more precious moments with your kids, and simplify your life—all by working just 2 hours a day? It might sound impossible, but with a simple, done-for-you automated system, it’s not only possible, it’s within reach for anyone, no matter where you are in the world. This system creates passive income, meaning you’re not trading hours for dollars anymore. Instead, you’re building a life where you have the freedom to do what you love, with the people you love creating memories. Imagine the joy of waking up without the rush, being fully present for your children every single day, and ending each day with peace in your heart, knowing that you’re providing for your family without sacrificing your time with them. That’s the kind of life we all dream of, isn’t it? As a Christian, I believe that our time here is precious and that we’re called to be good stewards of it. By freeing up your time through this system, you can focus on what truly matters—your faith, your family, and your purpose. Whether it’s attending every church service, being more involved in your community, or simply having the time to pray and reflect, this system allows you to live in alignment with your values. And the best part? You don’t need any tech skills to get started. This system is designed to be simple and accessible, so anyone can use it to start earning passive income. It’s about creating a life that’s less complicated, more fulfilling, and truly blessed. So, if you're ready to take that step toward time freedom, where you can focus on your family, your faith, and what really matters, then click the link in the show notes and let me know if you have any questions!  I am so excited for you to start living a life of freedom! Remember, you deserve a life where you’re not just surviving, but truly living. Let’s simplify, prioritize, and build something that not only supports your family financially but enriches your life spiritually. With God’s guidance and this proven system, anything is possible." Website and Waitlist: Claimingsimplicity.com Simple Passive Income-> https://www.claimingsimplicity.co/ Pinterest -> https://pin.it/4ulAVwr You Tube -> https://www.youtube.com/@claimingsimplicity/    Love ya!Monica