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

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 [email protected]

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.

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."

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.

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.

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:

1. Align Your Finances with Your Faith:
   

"God is not only concerned with blessing us financially but also empowering us to use that blessing to create a lasting impact in His Kingdom. When we keep our eyes on Him and His purpose, everything else falls into place."

So I want to leave you with a challenge this week. Take some time to pray and ask God where He is calling you to make an impact. It could be with your time, your talents, or your finances. Remember, money means nothing if it’s not used for a higher purpose, and that purpose is to glorify God and expand His Kingdom.

If you are ready to start your online journey to impact His kingdom with other like minded Christians, I will put the link in the show notes.

The Bible if full of so many verses regarding money!

Thank you for tuning in today. If this episode blessed you, share it with someone who needs encouragement today. Let’s go out and make an eternal difference!

Until next time, stay blessed, and keep your eyes on the true prize—making an impact for God’s Kingdom

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/

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Email -> [email protected]

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.

1. 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.

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.

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 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 show you step by step, you don’t have to constantly manage it. Tools like email marketing platforms or social media schedulers allow you to automate most of the process. This is where the 'making money while you sleep' part comes in.  The best business model ever!!!!!

So here’s my challenge to you: Spend time praying about this.  You will know if a passive income stream is something God is putting on your heart to simplify your life. Sign up to get the emails that explain how it works and please email me if you have any questions.  I want you to win and start enjoying your family and doing what you love without any income restrictions.  God has big plans for you, friend!

Remember, it’s not about getting rich quick. It’s about building something sustainable that gives you more freedom and less financial stress. You can do this, and it’s simpler than you think. You just have to start.

I’ll talk to you soon!

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