Melissa Galvin
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From the Farmhouse Table: Stories, Tips & Truth

Caring for Pets Naturally: A Crunchy Mom's Take on Furry Family Members

4/22/2025

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​If you’ve ever caught yourself checking the ingredient list on your dog’s food bag like it’s a cereal box - or spritzing lavender oil in the diffuser and wondering if your cat will approve - welcome to the club.
Our pets are more than pets - they’re snuggle buddies, alarm clocks, and snack inspectors. And just like we’ve cleaned up our pantries, switched out the toxic cleaners, and said “no thanks” to artificial everything… it’s time to do the same for them.

Here’s a peek into what natural pet care looks like in a crunchy household:

🥩 What’s in the Bowl Matters Most
Mass-produced pet food? It’s basically fast food for animals. Preservatives, by-products, fillers—none of that belongs in your furry friend’s dish.
Instead, consider home-cooked or raw diets (done safely!)
  • Bone broth and pumpkin for gut support
  • Real, whole foods that mirror nature

🐛 Ditch the Toxins (Yes, Even the Flea Meds)
Conventional flea and tick preventatives are literally pesticides. And vaccines or meds on autopilot? They might do more harm than good.
Natural support options include
  •  Young Living’s Animal Scents line
  • Diatomaceous earth (a crunchy must-have)
  • Essential oils like lavender, citronella, or rosemary (diluted, of course!)

💧 Clean Water & Movement
If we won’t drink straight tap water, should they? Invest in a pet-safe filter. And don’t forget daily movement—walks, play, snuffle mats, climbing towers, whatever gets them excited.

🐾 Emotions & Energy Matter Too
Training should be rooted in love and trust, not fear. And just like us, animals respond to natural calming tools--herbs, essential oils, and lots of gentle encouragement.

🌿 Healing Naturally
Supporting your pet’s body rather than fighting symptoms is key. Herbs like slippery elm and chamomile, golden paste, and essential oils (properly diluted!) are powerful allies.

Ready to go deeper? 🐕🐈
I created a printable guide just for fellow crunchy pet parents like you. It’s full of these and more natural remedies, safe product swaps, training tips, and resources that will have your furry friend feeling fantastic from nose to tail.

👉 Grab the Free Guide: Furry Friends & Family Life – Caring for Pets Naturally

Let’s raise a generation of healthy, happy pets - naturally. 🐾

xoxo, Melissa
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Mom Boss Mindset: How to Balance Business, Motherhood & Self-Care

4/15/2025

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Let’s be real for a second - being a mom and a business owner can feel like juggling flaming swords while riding a unicycle… during a toddler tantrum. But guess what? You’re not alone—and you absolutely can build a thriving business, nurture your family, and still show up for yourself (yes, even with leggings and dry shampoo on repeat).
Welcome to the Mom Boss Mindset—a guide for ambitious, purpose-driven mamas who want to ditch burnout, embrace balance, and build a life (and business) rooted in wellness, legacy, and joy.
Here’s how we make that happen—without the overwhelm.

Step 1: It Starts With Mindset
Before we talk strategy or spreadsheets, we have to start with what’s between your ears. Your mindset shapes everything—from how you lead your family to how you show up in your business.
✨ Quick Reset:
Write down one affirmation that reminds you who you are and what you’re building. Try: “I’m a legacy-building woman of purpose, grace, and grit.”
Journal your “why” - the real, raw reason you do what you do. Not for the algorithm. Not for approval. For you and your family.

Step 2: Structure Your Days (But Leave Room for Grace)
Perfect routines? Nope. Flexible rhythms that keep your sanity intact? Yes, please.
✨ Quick Reset:
Try blocking your day into 3 simple parts: morning, midday, and evening. Use these blocks to anchor your day around your non-negotiables (homeschool, client calls, meal prep, etc.).
Don’t forget to leave buffer zones - because we both know snack requests are endless.

Step 3: Simplify the Business Hustle
Busy isn’t the goal - impact is. Focus on what moves the needle and brings you joy. The rest? Delegate, automate, or toss out with the mismatched socks.
✨ Quick Reset:
List your top 3 income-generating AND joy-filled tasks. Tackle those first each week.
Try batching content creation using themes (like “Motivation Monday” or “Wellness Wednesday”) to reduce decision fatigue.

Step 4: Prioritize Self-Care (Yes, You’re Allowed To)
Running on empty isn’t heroic. Your wellness matters, mama. Your family and your business need you whole.
✨ Quick Reset:
Prep a healthy breakfast the night before to kickstart your day (think overnight oats or a protein smoothie).
Take 10–15 minutes to move your body daily - even if it’s a solo dance party while doing dishes.
And yes, locking yourself in the bathroom for 20 minutes with a face mask and a good devotional totally counts as self-care.

Step 5: Include the Kids, Empower the Family
You don’t have to separate “mom mode” from “boss mode.” Let your kids see you build. Invite them in. It’s how legacy is lived out loud.
✨ Quick Reset:
Assign them a small business task each week - like sorting packaging, stamping thank-you cards, or starring in your next IG reel.
Create a simple family mission statement together. Frame it. Live it.

Step 6: Stay Rooted in Faith & Purpose
When God is the CEO, the mission always matters more than the metrics. Your business is a ministry just as much as it is a marketplace.
✨ Quick Reset:
Start your day with prayer or Scripture - something that grounds you before the world starts pulling at your to-do list.
Ask: “Am I building something that brings glory to God and goodness to others?” Let that guide your decisions.

Step 7: Find Community, Not Comparison
Let’s be done with highlight-reel pressure and perfectionism. You need women who cheer you on, not compete with you. The real magic happens in community.
✨ Quick Reset:
Join or create a support group of women building businesses with faith and family first. Share a weekly win - big or small.
Post something real on social media this week. Your vulnerable moments could be the light someone else needs.

Final Thoughts: You Were Made For This
This journey isn’t about hustle - it’s about legacy. It’s about showing your kids what it looks like to build a life on purpose, with purpose.
You don’t have to do it all. Just the next right thing with intention, joy, and a whole lot of grace.

💌 Want More?
If this spoke to your soul (or at least made you laugh while sipping cold coffee), then you’ll love my guide on this topic! It’s a deeper dive into the practical steps, real-life stories, and grace-filled strategies you need to reset your rhythm and realign with your purpose.
👉 Click here to grab the guide and start your reset journey today.

Enjoy the journey - you've got this mama! 💜

xoxo, Melissa
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Following the Dietary Principles of the Weston A. Price Foundation

3/29/2025

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Who Was Weston A. Price?
Dr. Weston A. Price was a dentist and researcher who traveled the world in the early 20th century studying the diets of indigenous and traditional societies. He observed that communities untouched by modern processed foods had excellent dental health, strong bones, and overall vibrant well-being. His groundbreaking research concluded that whole, unprocessed, nutrient-dense foods were the key to optimal health. He documented his findings in his influential book, Nutrition and Physical Degeneration.
Price's work emphasized the role of fat-soluble vitamins (A, D, and K2) in dental and skeletal health, which were found abundantly in animal fats, organ meats, raw dairy, and properly prepared grains and legumes. His research laid the foundation for what is now known as ancestral nutrition, inspiring the dietary principles advocated by the Weston A. Price Foundation (WAPF).

The Dietary Principles of the Weston A. Price Foundation
The Weston A. Price Foundation promotes a return to traditional eating habits that prioritize whole, unprocessed, nutrient-dense foods. Here are the core dietary principles:
  1. Eat Nutrient-Dense Whole Foods
    Prioritize pasture-raised meats, wild-caught seafood, raw dairy, and organic fruits and vegetables. These foods provide essential vitamins and minerals that support strong immunity, healthy digestion, and vibrant energy levels.
  2. Include Healthy Animal Fats
    Traditional societies thrived on diets rich in healthy animal fats from sources such as grass-fed butter, tallow, lard, and egg yolks. These fats provide fat-soluble vitamins necessary for proper development and overall well-being.
  3. Consume Fermented Foods
    Cultured dairy (like yogurt and kefir), sauerkraut, kimchi, and fermented vegetables support gut health by providing beneficial probiotics. These foods aid digestion and boost the immune system.
  4. Make Bone Broth a Staple
    Bone broth is packed with collagen, gelatin, and essential minerals that support joint health, digestion, and skin elasticity. Slow-simmering bones extracts valuable nutrients that are easily absorbed by the body. (Insert your book recommendation on bone broth here.)
  5. Properly Prepare Grains, Nuts, and Legumes
    Traditional cultures took care to soak, sprout, or ferment grains, nuts, and legumes before consumption. This process neutralizes anti-nutrients like phytic acid and makes these foods more digestible and nutritious.
  6. Prioritize Raw and Unprocessed Dairy
    Raw milk from grass-fed cows is rich in beneficial enzymes, probiotics, and fat-soluble vitamins. Unlike pasteurized milk, raw dairy retains its natural nutrients, making it a superior choice for gut and immune health.
  7. Choose Pasture-Raised, Wild-Caught, and Organic Foods
    Industrialized farming practices have stripped much of our food of its nutritional value. Choosing organic, pasture-raised meats and wild-caught fish ensures that you are consuming the most nutrient-dense, toxin-free options.
  8. Limit Processed Foods, Refined Sugars, and Industrial Seed Oils
    Modern diets filled with processed foods, artificial ingredients, and inflammatory seed oils contribute to chronic diseases. Returning to traditional eating habits eliminates these harmful substances and supports long-term health.
The Impact on HealthFollowing these dietary principles has been linked to numerous health benefits, including:
  • Stronger teeth and bones due to an abundance of fat-soluble vitamins.
  • Improved digestion from fermented foods and bone broth.
  • Enhanced immunity from nutrient-dense, whole foods.
  • Balanced hormones from healthy fats and properly prepared foods.
  • Sustained energy levels from natural, unprocessed sources.
Book RecommendationsTo further explore these principles and incorporate them into your daily life, here are three essential books:
  1. Cookbook – A combination of ancestral nutrition research and practical recipes.
  2. Bone Broth – A deep dive into the benefits of bone broth and how to make it at home.
  3. Baby & Child Care – A guide to nourishing your children with traditional foods for optimal development.
Stay Connected!
If you're interested in learning more about traditional foods, meal planning, and how to incorporate these principles into your family’s lifestyle, follow me on Facebook and Instagram! I share tips, recipes, and insights to help you thrive on a whole-foods, ancestral diet.
By embracing the wisdom of ancestral diets, we can reclaim our health and vitality, just as Dr. Weston A. Price discovered nearly a century ago.

xoxo, Melissa
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Why We Left the Public School System (And Why You Might Want To, Too!)

3/22/2025

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There’s a little secret about our modern school system that not many people talk about: it wasn’t designed to create thinkers, innovators, or problem solvers. It was built to train kids for factory work. Bells signaling when to move to the next task. Memorization over creativity. Sitting in a desk for hours. Sound familiar?
But here’s the thing--our kids deserve better.
They deserve an education that prepares them for their future, not a system built for the Industrial Revolution. And that’s why we chose to step away from the traditional public school model and embrace Home Educating (notice I didn’t say “Homeschooling”—we’ll get to that in a second 😉).

Homeschooling Is NOT Just School at HomeA lot of new homeschool families (or those just considering it) imagine bringing school desks into their living rooms and recreating a six-hour school day. Nope. That’s not how we do things around here.
We call it Home Educating instead of Homeschooling because education is so much more than filling out worksheets and memorizing facts for a test. Life is learning! And when you embrace that mindset, the stress of "teaching" disappears, and real education happens naturally.
Here’s what Home Educating actually looks like:
✅ Cooking together = Home Ec + Math (measuring, fractions, budgeting)
✅ Helping fix a vehicle = Shop Class + Problem Solving
✅ Planting a garden = Life Skills + Science
✅ Museum visits & Library trips = History + Literature + Reading
✅ Building forts, playing outside, exploring nature = STEM + Creativity + Critical Thinking
Yes, we sit down with books and do structured lessons. Yes, we write reports and practice multiplication tables. But the beauty of Home Educating is that it’s customized to your child’s needs, learning style, and future goals.

Thinking About Homeschooling? Here’s Where to Start!Feeling overwhelmed? That’s normal! But here’s the good news:
👉 You don’t need an expensive boxed curriculum to get started. Many families pull together incredible resources from the library, secondhand sales, and even Walmart.
👉 You don’t need to mimic the school system. (In fact, I encourage you not to!) Find what works best for your family.
👉 You’re not alone! Homeschool conventions are a great way to meet like-minded families, find curriculum ideas, and get support. If you’re in Minnesota, the MACHE Convention in May (Duluth) is a must! And if you can’t make an in-person event, there are online conferences with expert speakers, too.
I’ll drop links in the comments for both the MACHE Convention and an upcoming online homeschool summit—so keep an eye out!

Need Help Getting Started? Let’s Chat!I know stepping away from the traditional system can feel overwhelming, but trust me--it’s worth it. If you have questions about Home Educating, choosing a curriculum, or just need some encouragement, send me a message.
You can do this, and I’d love to help! 💜

This version keeps it engaging, approachable, and informative while sparking curiosity and making the idea of homeschooling feel exciting and doable for your audience. It also naturally leads them to reach out to you for more help—which is exactly what we want!

​xoxo, Melissa

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The Hidden Dangers of Plastic Cutting Boards

1/8/2025

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When preparing meals for our families, we often prioritize fresh, nutritious ingredients and safe cooking practices. But have you ever thought about the cutting board you’re using? For many households, plastic cutting boards are the go-to choice due to their affordability and perceived convenience. However, research shows that plastic cutting boards may pose serious health risks that often go unnoticed.

Microplastics in Your Food
Every time you chop, slice, or dice on a plastic cutting board, tiny particles of plastic—known as microplastics—can be released. These particles can end up in your food and eventually make their way into your body. The wear and tear from knives create small grooves on the surface of plastic cutting boards, making them a breeding ground for bacteria and increasing the chances of microplastics contaminating your meals.

Health Risks of Microplastics
Microplastics have become a major environmental concern, but their impact on human health is equally alarming. Here are some potential health issues associated with ingesting microplastics:
  1. Toxicity: Microplastics can contain harmful chemicals like BPA and phthalates, which are known to disrupt hormones and cause reproductive and developmental problems.
  2. Inflammation: When ingested, microplastics may trigger inflammation in the digestive system, leading to long-term health complications.
  3. Bioaccumulation: Over time, microplastics can accumulate in the body, potentially affecting organs and contributing to chronic diseases.

​A Safer Alternative: Wood and Stainless Steel
Fortunately, there are safer and more sustainable options for cutting boards. Both wood and stainless steel cutting boards offer significant advantages over plastic:
  • Wood Cutting Boards:
    • Hardwoods like maple, walnut, and cherry are naturally durable and resist deep knife grooves.
    • Wood is naturally antibacterial, making it a safer choice for food preparation.
    • With proper care, wooden cutting boards can last for years, reducing waste.
  • Stainless Steel Cutting Boards:
    • Incredibly durable and easy to clean.
    • Non-porous surface prevents bacteria buildup.
    • Ideal for tasks like cutting raw meat or fish due to their hygienic properties.
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Handcrafted Wooden Cutting Boards from JG WoodworkingIn my household, we’ve switched to using beautiful, handcrafted wooden cutting boards made by my son. These boards are crafted from high-quality hardwood and sealed with a food-grade sealant, ensuring both safety and longevity. Not only are they practical, but they also add a touch of elegance to our kitchen.


If you’re interested in upgrading to a safer, eco-friendly cutting board, I highly recommend checking out his custom designs at J.G. Woodworking. Supporting small businesses like his is a win-win: you get a superior product while supporting local craftsmanship.


Take Action for Your HealthMaking the switch from plastic to wood or stainless steel cutting boards is a simple yet impactful step toward reducing your exposure to microplastics. By choosing safer alternatives, you’re not only protecting your health but also contributing to a more sustainable planet.


Do you use wood or stainless steel cutting boards? I’d love to hear about your experiences in the comments below!

​xoxo, Melissa

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Ditch the Store-Bought Salad Dressing: A Healthier Way to Enjoy Your Greens

1/7/2025

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When you're crafting a beautiful, vibrant salad filled with organic greens, crisp veggies, and maybe even a handful of nuts or seeds, the last thing you want to do is drench it in unhealthy, store-bought salad dressing. Unfortunately, many store-bought dressings—even those marketed as "healthy" or "natural"-are packed with hidden ingredients that can sabotage your wholesome meal.

What's Really in Store-Bought Salad Dressing? A quick glance at the ingredient label on most commercial salad dressings can be eye-opening. Here are some common offenders:
  1. Preservatives: To extend shelf life, many dressings are loaded with preservatives that have no place in a fresh, healthy diet.
  2. Unhealthy Oils: Many dressings use cheap, highly processed oils like soybean or canola oil, which are often genetically modified and inflammatory.
  3. Added Sugars: Even savory dressings can contain surprising amounts of sugar, sometimes listed under sneaky names like "corn syrup" or "dextrose."
  4. Artificial Flavors and Colors: These unnecessary additives can affect your health over time and provide zero nutritional value.
  5. Excess Sodium: High sodium levels can sneak into your dressing, making even a small serving a salt bomb.
Why Make Your Own Salad Dressing? Whipping up your own salad dressing at home is simple, rewarding, and so much better for you. Here are just a few reasons to ditch the bottled stuff:
  • You Control the Ingredients: By making your own dressing, you ensure that every ingredient aligns with your dietary goals and health standards.
  • No Preservatives: Homemade dressings are fresh and free of artificial preservatives, so you can enjoy them knowing they’re as clean as your salad.
  • Tailored to Your Taste: Whether you prefer tangy, creamy, or herby, you can adjust flavors to suit your preferences.
  • Cost-Effective: Making your own dressing is often cheaper than buying specialty organic options from the store.

Getting Started with Homemade Salad Dressings - Making your own dressing can be as simple as combining a high-quality oil (like extra virgin olive oil or avocado oil) with an acid (such as lemon juice, apple cider vinegar, or balsamic vinegar) and a few seasonings. From there, the possibilities are endless—you can add mustard, honey, herbs, or even a dollop of yogurt for creaminess.

Need inspiration? I highly recommend checking out the Weston A. Price Foundation website here. Their "Recipe of the Week" tab offers a treasure trove of delicious, nourishing salad dressing recipes that will elevate your salads and support your health.

By taking a few extra minutes to make your own dressing, you’re not just enhancing the flavor of your salad—you’re making an investment in your well-being. So go ahead, toss those bottled dressings, and embrace the joy of homemade. Your body will thank you!

​xoxo, Melissa
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T​he Health Benefits of Real Butter Over Margarine or Spreads: Why Butter is Back in the Kitchen

1/6/2025

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In recent years, the debate over butter vs margarine or "healthy spreads" has resurfaced, and many are rediscovering the benefits of real, grass-fed butter. With numerous spreads available on the market, it's easy to be confused about what’s truly best for your health. However, if you look closer, you'll find that real butter - especially from grass-fed cows - outshines margarine and other processed spreads in several important ways. I've been researching this topic for years now and a great deal of easy to understand, and science backed information can be gained from the Weston A. Price Foundation.

Why Real Butter?
The Weston A. Price Foundation, a well-respected organization dedicated to traditional nutrition, emphasizes the importance of nutrient-dense, whole foods. One of the foundation’s most significant recommendations is the consumption of real butter, particularly from cows raised on grass. Here's why:

1. Rich in Nutrients
Butter from grass-fed cows is packed with vitamins and minerals that are essential for overall health. Real butter contains:

Vitamin A: This fat-soluble vitamin is crucial for vision, immune function, and skin health.
Vitamin D: Important for bone health and immune support.
Vitamin K2: Found in grass-fed butter, this nutrient supports heart health and bone density.
Butyrate: A short-chain fatty acid that helps nourish the gut, reduce inflammation, and support brain health.
Margarine, on the other hand, is typically made from processed vegetable oils, which are refined, bleached, and deodorized—stripping away any beneficial nutrients. It’s often loaded with trans fats, which have been linked to heart disease, diabetes, and other health issues.

2. A Healthy Fat
Butter contains saturated fat, a nutrient that has been unfairly demonized in the past. Contrary to what many have been told, saturated fats are not inherently bad for health. In fact, the Weston A. Price Foundation encourages their consumption, particularly in the form of grass-fed butter, as they play a critical role in cell structure, energy production, and hormone regulation.

Margarine and spreads, on the other hand, are often made with trans fats (especially if they are partially hydrogenated), which have been proven to increase bad cholesterol levels and promote heart disease.

3. Supports Brain Function
Butter is a rich source of cholesterol, which is vital for brain health. Cholesterol is a building block of the brain, helping to form the cell membranes and supporting cognitive functions. Consuming real butter can help maintain mental clarity and memory, particularly in older adults. On the contrary, margarine's unhealthy fats can contribute to cognitive decline over time.

Real Butter vs. Margarine:

According to the Weston A. Price Foundation, margarine is a processed, synthetic fat that has been linked to various chronic diseases. They warn against substituting butter with margarine or spreads, as these products are chemically altered, often leading to the formation of trans fats, which increase inflammation in the body and damage cells.

The Foundation promotes the idea that traditional fats—like butter, lard, and tallow—are far superior to processed oils and margarine. These natural fats provide essential fatty acids, vitamins, and nutrients that are often absent in processed alternatives. By choosing grass-fed butter, you are not only opting for a natural fat but also supporting local, sustainable agriculture practices.

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How to Make Your Own Butter from Raw Milk


One of the best ways to ensure you're consuming the healthiest butter possible is by making it yourself from raw milk. While it might seem intimidating, making your own butter is surprisingly easy and rewarding. Here's how:

What You’ll Need:
- Raw milk: The fresher, the better! You’ll need whole raw milk or cream. Raw milk, when sourced from a local farm with healthy cows, contains higher levels of beneficial nutrients like omega-3 fatty acids and vitamin K2.
- A jar or mixer: You can use a stand mixer, hand mixer, or even a mason jar for the traditional "shake method."
- Salt (optional): If you want salted butter, a small amount of sea salt will do.

Step-by-Step Process:

Separate the Cream (if using raw milk):
Let the raw milk sit for 12–24 hours in the refrigerator so the cream rises to the top. Skim off the cream with a spoon or ladle, and place it in a bowl or jar.

Whip the Cream:
Use a stand mixer or hand mixer on medium speed to whip the cream. You'll notice it will first become whipped cream. Keep mixing, and eventually, the whipped cream will begin to separate into butter and buttermilk. This process typically takes 10-15 minutes.

Drain the Buttermilk:
Once the butter has separated, pour off the buttermilk. Save this for baking or making pancakes—it’s a great ingredient for recipes.

Wash the Butter:
Rinse the butter under cold water to remove any leftover buttermilk. Gently press the butter with a spatula to help it release the water.

Add Salt (Optional):
If you like salted butter, now is the time to add a pinch of sea salt and mix it in thoroughly.

Store Your Butter:
Transfer your fresh butter into an airtight container. Keep it refrigerated for several weeks, or freeze some for later use.

Making butter at home from raw milk is not only cost-effective but allows you to have full control over the quality and purity of the butter you consume. Plus, homemade butter is often richer in flavor and texture than store-bought varieties.

In Conclusion, when it comes to choosing a healthy fat, real butter from grass-fed cows is an excellent choice over margarine and spreads. The Weston A. Price Foundation highlights the numerous health benefits of butter, from its nutrient density to its role in supporting brain and heart health. By making your own butter from raw milk, you can ensure you're consuming the purest, most nutrient-dense option available, free from the additives and unhealthy fats found in processed margarine.

So, next time you're in the kitchen, consider swapping your margarine for real butter. It’s not just delicious—it’s also good for you!

xoxo,
​Melissa

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​Eat with the Seasons: Nourish Your Body the Way Nature Intended

11/4/2024

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As the cool, crisp air of fall settles in, we can feel the shift all around us. Trees shed their leaves, daylight shortens, and the familiar warmth of summer gives way to autumn’s chill. This seasonal transition is not only natural but also essential for our bodies, which are wonderfully designed to thrive on seasonal foods. As we prepare for the colder months, choosing to eat with the seasons can profoundly benefit our health, supporting our immune systems and energy levels while aligning us with nature’s rhythm.

Why Eat Seasonally?
Eating seasonally means filling our plates with fresh, local produce that’s at its peak in flavor and nutritional value. In the fall, the harvest includes hearty, nutrient-dense foods like root vegetables, squash, and brassicas (like cabbage and kale). These foods are specifically suited to meet the body’s needs in cooler weather, as they provide warmth, rich nourishment, and the grounding qualities that help us stay balanced during the season's fluctuations.

Here’s why eating seasonally is such a powerful choice:

Better Nutritional Profile: Seasonal produce is picked at peak ripeness, which means it retains more vitamins, minerals, and antioxidants compared to out-of-season fruits and vegetables. By eating what’s fresh, we’re supplying our bodies with exactly what they need for optimal health.

Boosts Immune Support: Root vegetables like carrots, beets, and sweet potatoes are packed with immune-supportive vitamins, such as Vitamin A and C, which strengthen our body’s defenses. Adding in homemade bone broth and brassicas like cabbage or cauliflower provides us with minerals, collagen, and amino acids that support gut health and immunity – especially important as cold and flu season approaches.

Naturally Warms and Grounds Us: The dense, warming foods available in the fall are grounding and nourishing. They help balance out the cool air of the season, warming us from within and providing steady energy to carry us through shorter days. These foods align with the body's need to preserve energy and stay warm during cooler months.

Fall’s Best Ingredients: A Delicious Way to Stay Healthy
Autumn’s harvest is filled with vibrant colors and robust flavors that encourage us to slow down, savor, and nourish ourselves. Here are some of fall’s best ingredients to embrace:

Root Vegetables: Carrots, parsnips, sweet potatoes, and beets are full of fiber, vitamins, and minerals. Their natural sweetness and rich textures are a perfect complement to warming stews and roasts.

Squash: From butternut to acorn to spaghetti squash, these vibrant gourds are rich in beta-carotene, fiber, and Vitamin C. They add heartiness to any meal and work beautifully in soups, baked dishes, and even as pasta substitutes.

Brassicas: Cabbage, kale, cauliflower, and Brussels sprouts are nutritional powerhouses. They support detoxification, reduce inflammation, and offer abundant Vitamin K, which supports bone health.

Bone Broth: A slow-simmered bone broth is rich in collagen, minerals, and amino acids, which support digestion, joint health, and immunity. Bone broth also helps to balance gut health, which plays a crucial role in overall wellness.

Recipe Idea: Root Vegetable & Squash Soup with Homemade Bone Broth
To bring all these flavors and nutrients together, try a hearty root vegetable and squash soup with bone broth as the base. This nourishing, warming soup is easy to make and can be customized with your favorite seasonal veggies. Simply simmer together carrots, sweet potatoes, squash, and any brassicas you love in homemade bone broth. Season with fresh herbs like thyme and rosemary, and enjoy a bowl of comfort that feeds your body as well as your soul.

Embrace the Benefits of Seasonal Eating
Eating with the seasons is a simple way to align with nature, honor the rhythms of our bodies, and give ourselves the best foundation for good health. So as you shop this fall, fill your basket with colorful root vegetables, squash, and hearty greens, and let these foods support you in feeling vibrant and well through autumn and beyond.

Embrace the change, eat what’s fresh, and enjoy the many gifts of fall!
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The Importance of Multiple Streams of Income in Today's Economy

7/26/2024

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In today's ever-changing and often unpredictable economy, having multiple streams of income is more crucial than ever. Gone are the days when a single job could guarantee financial stability and security. Economic downturns, job instability, and unforeseen expenses can quickly turn a once-comfortable situation into a financial struggle. This is why diversifying your income sources is not just a smart strategy—it's a necessary one.

In our household, we've embraced this mindset wholeheartedly. We run multiple small businesses that cater to different markets and needs. Each business, whether it's a local service, an online shop, or a consultancy, adds a unique stream of revenue. This diversification means that if one business faces a downturn, we still have other sources of income to rely on.

Beyond our small businesses, we've also tapped into the power of network marketing and affiliate marketing. Network marketing allows us to build and grow a community of like-minded individuals who are also seeking financial independence. By sharing products and opportunities with others, we not only earn commissions but also help others achieve their financial goals. Affiliate marketing, on the other hand, leverages our online presence. By promoting products and services that we believe in, we earn a commission for every sale made through our referral links. This not only generates income but also provides value to our audience by recommending products we trust.

Having these varied income streams creates a safety net. If one source of income slows down or fails, we have others to fall back on. This reduces our financial stress and provides a sense of security that a single income source could never offer.

But it’s not just about our own financial security. I love teaching others how to achieve the same stability and freedom. There's immense satisfaction in helping someone discover a new income stream and watching them flourish. Whether you're looking to start a small business, dive into network marketing, or explore affiliate marketing, there are simple and accessible opportunities available. I'd love to introduce you to these opportunities and guide you on the path to financial independence and security. You can reach me through my website www.melissagalvin.com.  Together, we can build health, wealth and vitality that stands strong in any economy.

xoxo, Melissa
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The Importance of Putting Housework Aside to Spend Quality Family Time

6/24/2024

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In today's fast-paced world, it's easy to get caught up in the never-ending list of housework, chores, and projects. Our to-do lists seem to grow longer by the day, and the pressure to keep our homes spotless and our schedules packed with productive activities can be overwhelming. However, amidst this hustle and bustle, we often overlook something far more important: spending quality time with our family. Taking a break from daily chores and dedicating time to connect with loved ones is crucial for our well-being and happiness. Here’s why prioritizing family time over household tasks is essential:
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Strengthening Family Bonds - Quality time together strengthens the bonds between family members. When we engage in activities that everyone enjoys, such as playing games, going for a walk, or simply having a heartfelt conversation, we create memories that last a lifetime. These shared experiences help build trust and understanding, making the family unit stronger and more resilient.
Boosting Emotional Well-being - Spending time with family can significantly boost emotional well-being. It provides a sense of belonging and security that is fundamental for mental health. Whether it’s laughing over a funny movie, sharing stories over dinner, or comforting each other during tough times, family time offers emotional support that helps reduce stress and anxiety.
Enhancing Child Development - For children, family time is crucial for healthy development. Engaging in family activities helps kids develop social skills, improves their self-esteem, and provides them with a sense of stability. It also offers opportunities for parents to teach valuable life lessons and model positive behaviors. When children feel loved and supported, they are more likely to thrive academically, socially, and emotionally.
Creating a Balanced Life - It's important to model a balanced life for our children. When they see us taking breaks and prioritizing family over work, they learn to value relationships over material achievements. This balance is essential for fostering a healthy work-life dynamic that they can carry into adulthood.
Improving Communication - Quality family time improves communication within the family. Open and honest discussions about daily activities, thoughts, and feelings help family members understand each other better. This improved communication can prevent misunderstandings and conflicts, making the household a more harmonious place.
Building Traditions and Rituals - Spending time together helps in building family traditions and rituals, which are important for creating a sense of identity and continuity. Whether it’s a weekly game night, a Sunday brunch, or annual vacations, these traditions provide a sense of routine and something to look forward to, strengthening family cohesion.
 
If you’re having trouble prioritizing family time, here are some practical tips that may help:
  • Set Boundaries: Establish clear boundaries between work and family time. Designate specific hours for household chores and stick to them, ensuring that you have dedicated family time each day.
  • Create a Family Calendar: Plan regular family activities and mark them on a shared calendar. This helps ensure that everyone is on the same page and that family time is prioritized.
  • Unplug Together: Make it a point to disconnect from electronic devices during family time. This will help you focus on each other without distractions.
  • Delegate Chores: Share household responsibilities among family members. This not only lightens your load but also teaches children responsibility and teamwork.
  • Embrace Imperfection: Accept that your home doesn’t need to be perfect. A little mess is a small price to pay for the joy and connection that quality family time brings.
 
While housework and chores are important, they should never overshadow the time we spend with our loved ones. Prioritizing family time fosters stronger relationships, enhances emotional well-being, and creates a nurturing environment for children to grow. So, the next time you feel overwhelmed by your to-do list, remember that the dishes can wait, but the moments spent with your family are priceless. Embrace the joy of togetherness, and create memories that will last a lifetime.

xoxo, Melissa
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