Claiming Simplicity | Simplify Life, Natural Living, Homestead, Cooking from Scratch, Easy Meals

Monica H Baker - Christian Simple Living Strategist for Busy Moms
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Claiming Simplicity | Simplify Life, Natural Living, Homestead, Cooking from Scratch, Easy Meals

Are you a tired, exhausted, and overwhelmed mom looking to simplify your life? Do you want to get your priorities back in order so you can enjoy a balanced lifestyle? Do you want to have time freedom to create memories and experiences with your family and friends? In this podcast, you will learn how to simplify your lifestyle, reduce expenses and learn ways to balance your values and your time. If you are ready to take back your time to what really matters most, you are going to want to listen to this podcast! Hey Mama! I am Monica H Baker! I am a Jesus lover, wife, mom of 5 kids, grandma, nurse, and homeschool mom. Over 20 years ago, 3 of my kids were 3 years old and under, I was working full-time in accounting and I heard something that CHANGED MY LIFE! I heard that if you compare your values and your time, you would have a clear picture of what is NOT working in your life! I realized that if I was going to put God and family first, I had to stop spending all my time at work. I had to create a plan in order to step into more balance. Together with God and my husband, I created a simplified life plan that allowed me to get out of debt, scale back my career, and still be able to live fruitfully with more purpose and time than ever before and I never looked back! My mission is to help mamas simplify, reduce expenses, and connect their faith! Follow me on instagram-＞ @claimingsimplicity Email me-＞ claimingsimplicity@gmail.com

  1. 30 SEPT.

    EP 193 // Save Money on Groceries as Food Costs Continue to Increase with Inflation

    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

    7 min

  2. 25 SEPT.

    EP 192 // Simple 5 Step Plan to Have More Abundance in All Areas of Your Life

    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

    7 min

  3. 23 SEPT.

    EP 191 // Simplifying Your Daily Homestead Routine: 3 Tips to Make Farm Life Easier

    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

    5 min

  4. 20 SEPT.

    EP 190 // 3 Simple Steps to Creating a Legacy the Lasts with Kingdom Impact

    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 in

    7 min

  5. 18 SEPT.

    EP 189 // Simplicity-You are What You Think About - Change Your Mind & Change Your 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

    4 min

  6. 16 SEPT.

    EP 188 // Want More Peace in Your Life? #1 Tip to Living with Less Stress

    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

    5 min

  7. 13 SEPT.

    EP 187 // Building a Life of Faith, Family, and Financial Freedom: Creating an Income Stream that Aligns with Your Values

    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

    10 min

  8. 10 SEPT.

    EP 186 // Freeze Drying Experience and 3 Tips to Prepare for Winter

    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!

    6 min
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À propos

Are you a tired, exhausted, and overwhelmed mom looking to simplify your life? Do you want to get your priorities back in order so you can enjoy a balanced lifestyle? Do you want to have time freedom to create memories and experiences with your family and friends? In this podcast, you will learn how to simplify your lifestyle, reduce expenses and learn ways to balance your values and your time. If you are ready to take back your time to what really matters most, you are going to want to listen to this podcast! Hey Mama! I am Monica H Baker! I am a Jesus lover, wife, mom of 5 kids, grandma, nurse, and homeschool mom. Over 20 years ago, 3 of my kids were 3 years old and under, I was working full-time in accounting and I heard something that CHANGED MY LIFE! I heard that if you compare your values and your time, you would have a clear picture of what is NOT working in your life! I realized that if I was going to put God and family first, I had to stop spending all my time at work. I had to create a plan in order to step into more balance. Together with God and my husband, I created a simplified life plan that allowed me to get out of debt, scale back my career, and still be able to live fruitfully with more purpose and time than ever before and I never looked back! My mission is to help mamas simplify, reduce expenses, and connect their faith! Follow me on instagram-＞ @claimingsimplicity Email me-＞ claimingsimplicity@gmail.com

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