The Prudent Homemaker

Every week, coffee in hand, I spend some time with this fascinating woman.  If you haven't read her blog, The Prudent Homemaker, you should, she is amazing.  The jest of her story is that years ago, her husband suddenly lost over half his income.  Half.  And necessity being the mother of invention, she has learned to not only live, but have her family thrive, on much less than what we think we can.

She gardens, sews, bakes, cans, homeschools her children and still has time to share her wisdom with the rest of us.  Ahhhh-mazing.

From this blog, I have learned to make my own laundry detergent, as well as household cleaners.  I have set up my own pantry--though not as impressive as hers:

And most importantly, she has changed the way I look at things.  Before, I wouldn't think much about spending $400-500 per week on groceries for a family of five, but now, I know I can do better--a lot better.  I have learned that the money I save can be used for something else, or nothing at all.  And because of this new mentality, not only are our savings accounts growing, but we are actually eating better!

Though a great deal of her blog is centered around saving money, there are other gems hidden here and there.  Things like spending time with family, faith and hope in the world.  It's good--really good.

She also has a website that has become my go-to when I have a question about something.  This has come in exceptionally handy since my mom passed away and I can't just pick up the phone and ask her about a recipe or the shelf-life of cream cheese. (Seriously, she tells you stuff like that!!)

In a world where we seem to be rushing about like chickens with their heads cut off (as my Granddaddy would have said), it's nice and refreshing to see someone still so grounded in home and family.  Someone who can inspire us to be the same.

The Prudent Homemaker Family