May 17, 2024

Join Me in Rewriting the Best “To-Do” List This Holiday Week

Nov15

Thanksgiving is upon us, so I’ve made my list and I’m checking it twice: Mashed Potatoes (the Make Ahead recipe),  Cider Baked Turkey (purchase the juice), Butterhorn Rolls (for Gratitude Rolls),  Pumpkin Bars, and I must remember to cut out […]

Big Month, Family Bonding and The Star

Nov10

 Sponsored by The Star In Theaters November 17. “Oh Mom, I just can’t wait for the most wonderful time of the year. It’s so cozy with lights and hot chocolate, our special family traditions and . . .” My heart […]

The “We All” of Family: Cultivating Memory Making Moments

Sep14

With the holidays right around the corner, many of us will turn our hearts towards traditions. There’s such power and importance in establishing them, yet with our busy schedules, maybe consider implementing some Once a Month Memory Moments, instead of piling more pressure […]

Why Can’t We All Get Along?

Aug22

How Good and Pleasant it is when God’s People Live Together in Unity. Our four year old daughter stormed through the front door, flung herself on the sofa and with a Scarlet Ohara flair declared, “I just don’t understand why […]

MOM JOY! I haven’t laughed this much in a LONG TIME!!

Jul13

A few months ago, the crazy fashion world dipped their toe into social media land to see if viewers would name the male romper friend or foe.  A few entrepreneurial guys wanted to start a fashion revolution through their new brand “ROMPHIM.” They […]

Red, White and Blue Dessert Delights – July 4th Inspiration

Jul3

We are hosting two large groups of people this weekend, with virtually no notice, and the need for some 4th of July dessert ideas inspiration has hit in full force. My teen age sons got home from their work camp […]

Remembering Courage – July 4th Idea for the Family

Jun29

As one drives around neighborhoods this weekend, the haze from back yard cookouts lazily permeate the clear, summer sky. The aroma draws you in, and memories of past July 4th grilling events flood back to the forefront. (It’s amazing how […]

Last Minute Father’s Day Ideas (and my stories)

Jun16

My heart warmed when I snapped this picture. Dressed up and all ready for their special daddy daughter date night, our girls spent time with a devoted father. A daddy whose desire  to cherish his princess daughters, and model just […]

Life Changing Legacy Happening in Frozen Foods

May31

In the middle of Aldi’s frozen food aisle, I “did” church. Right in between the tater tots and frozen peas, I almost missed it. I’m so grateful I didn’t. Since I’ve been studying Scripture on imperfect hospitality, I’ve begged the […]

To Mothers, Women, Mentors: My Important Reminder

May12

It all matters!! I’m finishing up a 60K word book manuscript this weekend.  I’m exhausted. I’ve written about our home and hospitality and mothering with more words than I ever thought in me. I’ll share more soon because I have a […]

Resurrection Rolls – Making Simple Easter Recipes Meaningful

Apr10

I can’t believe it’s been eight years since I first shared this post. My baby was only five and now she’s a new teenager. Oh my! How does that happen?  I thought this was worth sharing again because it’s a […]

Easter, The Bunny, and My Thoughts: Should We Mix the Two?

Mar21

How is it that Easter is right around the corner? I have so many fun traditions, recipes and decor ideas in the archives if you’re looking for more ideas, check here. As a young mom, with four babies in five […]

Lessons Learned From My Daughter: Teens & Social Media

Mar17

I’ve been so quiet over here, but not on Instagram (jenschmidt_beautyandbedlam) where I post almost daily (including video stories). Over the next few months, I’ll get back to my Mentor Mom series , but my book manuscript is due soon and then I hope to […]

Valentine’s Day Tradition – Hearts of Loving Kindness (Free Printable)

Feb2

Hearts of Loving Kindness – It’s wonderful to look back and see some of the special memories our kids have from traditions that we’ve carried through their childhood. Our baby may have just turned 13, but I think I need […]

When I Struggle with a Fresh, New Year

Jan22

It’s January: everything around me reminds me it’s time to ring in 2017 with new beginnings, goals, dreams and a renewed vigor to all things. Brand new journals glisten with fresh pages eager to be conquered and the artistry and craftsmanship […]