Simplified Organization: How moms manage life & home

What does it mean to be truly fruitful and fearless in homemaking?

Upcoming masterclass: vocationvision.com -- How do we balance all our roles without feeling overwhelmed? In this episode, Kaitie Neely shares how defining and prioritizing her vocations has brought clarity and peace to her daily life. From homeschooling and homemaking to starting a new business, Kaitie discusses practical ways to manage responsibilities, stay organized, and avoid distraction.Kaitie is a sleep consultant who will help you figure out a sleep training routine that works with your family and baby: https://www.kaitieneelysleepconsulting.com➡️ Learn how to set priorities, create a simple planning system, and stay focused on what matters most!

Simplifying Meal Planning with a Realistic Pantry Strategy

Feeding a family well can feel overwhelming, but it doesn't have to be complicated. In this episode, Chandice shares how to simplify nutrition with a biblical, creation-based approach to eating. She discusses practical ways to choose whole, nourishing foods, balance blood sugar, and create family-friendly meals on a budget. Learn how meal formulas, batch cooking, and smart grocery shopping can bring order and simplicity to your kitchen.➡️ Watch now for simple, sustainable ways to nourish your family with confidence!Find Chandis' video series here: closetonature.healthUse coupon SIMPLIFIED for 20% off the full series!Now as a mom of three, Chandis' professional work, motherhood experiences, and her Christian faith, have culminated into a new video series called, “Eating Close to Nature.” In this creation-based series, Chandis hosts 12 video episodes where you'll learn the why behind the food choices she recommends and the details of the specific products, brands, and recipes she uses to nourish her family. This is a wholesome series that the entire family can watch.Chandis has dedicated her career to supporting moms in navigating nutrition information, and today she is excited to help bring order and simplicity to one of motherhoods' most challenging tasks: feedings our families well.Mystie Winckler encourages moms to organize their attitudes and get traction at home so we are no longer overwhelmed or frustrated with homemaking. We are a community of Christian women striving to be competent, cheerful homemakers so we are fruitful, faithful, and hospitable. Subscribe for regular encouragement!

Free meal planning templates: https://simplyconvivial.com/pantryFeeding a large family while balancing homeschooling, projects, and a budget can feel overwhelming. Do you spend all day cooking or opt for convenience and spend more money? There's a better way! In this video, we're talking about simple meal planning strategies that save time, reduce stress, and keep your family well-fed—without breaking the bank.Find Jessica here: https://goodcheapeats.com/Access her free resource library: https://goodcheapeats.com/subscribe/Learn how to:✅ Reduce decision fatigue with a meal plan template✅ Master go-to meals that get easier (and faster!) with repetition✅ Help picky eaters become more adventurous✅ Stretch your grocery budget while still enjoying family favoritesWith a little planning and patience, homemade meals can be both simple and satisfying. Watch now and start making mealtimes easier!

Jessica Fisher, cookbook author and food writer at Good Cheap Eats, shares practical and creative ways to cut grocery costs while still enjoying quality meals. From shopping your pantry to building relationships with your local butcher, Jessica offers real-world strategies to make your grocery budget stretch further—without sacrificing flavor or nutrition.Find Jessica here: https://goodcheapeats.com/Access her free resource library: https://goodcheapeats.com/subscribe/➡️ Discover simple ways to save money on groceries while still serving meals your family loves!Mystie Winckler encourages moms to organize their attitudes and get traction at home so we are no longer overwhelmed or frustrated with homemaking. We are a community of Christian women striving to be competent, cheerful homemakers so we are fruitful, faithful, and hospitable. Subscribe for regular encouragement!

Free course module: https://simplyconvivial.com/story - Rachael Younger shares her journey of learning to trust God through the challenges of being sidelined by tendinitis. In this heartfelt conversation, she opens up about confronting pride, embracing humility, and finding grace in a season of unexpected limitations. Listen as Rachael and Mystie discuss how God uses trials to refine us, redirect our focus, and teach us to rest in His sovereignty.➡️ Join the conversation and discover how to grow in faith, gratitude, and perseverance during life's toughest moments.Life rarely unfolds the way we plan. As homemakers and mothers, we thrive on routines and the ability to “do it all,” but what happens when we're forced to slow down? Rachael Younger's story of being sidelined by tendinitis is a powerful reminder of how God uses trials to teach us dependence, humility, and trust.Mystie Winckler encourages moms to organize their attitudes and get traction at home so we are no longer overwhelmed or frustrated with homemaking. We are a community of Christian women striving to be competent, cheerful homemakers so we are fruitful, faithful, and hospitable. Subscribe for regular encouragement!

In the second half of Mystie Winckler's interview with Tilly Dillehay, they explore how our homes can become spiritual outposts and places of transformation. Tilly shares her testimony of how hospitality and the atmosphere of a godly home led to her own conversion, emphasizing the eternal significance of our homemaking efforts.They also discuss practical topics like the power of gratitude, the necessity of confession, and how cultivating small, daily habits can make your home a place of spiritual refuge. Discover how your faithfulness in the ordinary can have extraordinary, eternal impact.Topics Covered:How a godly home can lead others to Christ.The transformative power of gratitude and confession.Viewing homemaking as spiritual warfare.Stay tuned for inspiration to see your daily work as kingdom work, with eternal consequences that glorify God.

In this episode of the Simplified Organization podcast, Mystie Winckler sits down with author Tilly Dillehay to discuss her latest book, My Dear Hemlock. Inspired by C.S. Lewis's The Screwtape Letters, Tilly's book explores women's unique temptations through the lens of fictionalized letters between tempters.Get Tilly's latest book: https://canonpress.com/products/my-dear-hemlockTogether, they dive into the inspiration behind the project, the creative process of turning nonfiction insights into compelling fiction, and how the demon's perspective reveals hidden struggles we all face. Learn how storytelling can help us see our sins more clearly and motivate us to pursue righteousness.Whether you're a homemaker, a homeschool mom, or just looking for encouragement, this conversation offers powerful insights into how God works in and through our daily lives.Topics Covered:The inspiration behind My Dear Hemlock.How fiction can make sin and temptation more stark.The importance of self-awareness in spiritual growth.

Take my course The Art of Homeschooling: https://shop.simplyconvivial.com/art-of-homeschooling/Are you navigating the challenges of homeschooling during the middle school years? In this episode, we dive deep into the transformative period of adolescence—those years between 11 and 13 that can feel like a whirlwind of emotions, growth, and shifting dynamics.Homeschooling isn't just about academics; it's about shepherding your children through critical developmental phases. From the early days of homeschooling toddlers and enjoying the rhythm of elementary years to the distinct challenges of guiding pre-teens and teens, this talk unpacks how to adjust your expectations and embrace the opportunities for growth during puberty.Discover practical insights on:Understanding the distinct "middle school" phase.Why homeschooling a 12-year-old feels like starting over (but isn't!).How to guide your child toward responsibility and maturity.Overcoming cultural obstacles to raising resilient, respectful adults.The critical mindset shift moms must make during these transitional years.If you've ever felt overwhelmed by the ups and downs of homeschooling a middle schooler, this episode will give you encouragement, perspective, and practical tips to navigate this season with confidence and grace.

Discover how the principle of iteration can bring clarity and flexibility to homemaking, hospitality, and family routines in this episode of the Simplified Organization Podcast. Mairin, a homeschool mom of seven, shares her journey from military life to building a rooted family culture and how she's learned to adapt and thrive in the midst of change.This conversation offers practical tips for implementing a weekly review, simplifying meal prep, preparing for hospitality, and balancing the demands of a busy household. Mairin's advice highlights the importance of flexibility, reliance on the Lord, and involving the whole family in creating systems that work.If you've ever felt overwhelmed by routines that don't seem to stick or the need to “get it right” the first time, this episode is full of encouraging reminders to start small, adjust as you go, and lean into grace.

Rachel Alaia, a member of the Convivial Circle, shares her heart for gospel-centered hospitality. As a bilingual, newly born-again Christian, Rachel lives with her family on a big ranch in the coastal mountains of Mexico, where she's restoring a classic hacienda and embracing her calling to serve her family and community.Join us as we discuss:

Amie shares her inspiring journey from being a daydream planner stuck in perfectionism to becoming a doer who embraces progress over perfection. Join us for Community Coaching: https://shop.simplyconvivial.com/soccIn this episode, Mystie Winckler sits down with Amie Garner, a wife, homeschool mom of 5, and long-time member of Convivial Circle. Amie shares her inspiring journey from being a daydream planner stuck in perfectionism to becoming a doer who embraces progress over perfection.Together, they discuss:✅ How perfectionism holds us back (and how to overcome it).✅ The power of interval planning to create sustainable routines.✅ Why taking baby steps—even when it feels too slow—leads to real change.✅ How to adjust your plans with life's unpredictable seasons.Amie's transformation is a testament to the value of starting small, sticking with it, and giving yourself grace along the way. If you're overwhelmed by clutter, routines, or unrealistic expectations, this conversation will inspire you to stop daydreaming and start doing.

Rachel Bozarth highlights the power of the weekly review for busy moms. Join Community Coaching: https://shop.simplyconvivial.com/soccA weekly review prevents things from falling through the cracks, enables realistic planning, and builds margin for priorities. Start small by reviewing your calendar, listing weekly priorities, and practicing consistently.Mystie Winckler encourages moms to organize their attitudes and get traction at home so we are no longer overwhelmed or frustrated with homemaking. We are a community of Christian women striving to be competent, cheerful homemakers so we are fruitful, faithful, and hospitable. Subscribe for regular encouragement!

Discover how Erika overcame homemaking overwhelm, perfectionism, and clutter with simple strategies like timers, brain dumps, and community support through Convivial Circle. https://shop.simplyconvivial.com/socc/Mystie Winckler encourages moms to organize their attitudes and get traction at home so we are no longer overwhelmed or frustrated with homemaking. We are a community of Christian women striving to be competent, cheerful homemakers so we are fruitful, faithful, and hospitable. Subscribe for regular encouragement!

Learn from older Christian women who are still learning to be better homemakers even as empty-nesters.Join us! https://convivialcircle.comWith over 40 years of homemaking experience, Judy shares her journey of managing her home after her children have grown. She discusses how she continued to improve her homemaking skills and the challenges of staying organized. The conversation touches on the importance of a supportive community like Convivial Circle and how embracing flexibility and gratitude can transform the homemaking experience. Judy also offers practical advice for older moms dealing with the unpredictability of life and the need to continuously adapt.Mystie Winckler encourages moms to organize their attitudes and get traction at home so we are no longer overwhelmed or frustrated with homemaking. We are a community of Christian women striving to be competent, cheerful homemakers so we are fruitful, faithful, and hospitable. Subscribe for regular encouragement!

Move from chaos to joyful home management!  FREE Attitude Alignment Guide: https://www.simplyconvivial.com/attitude/Stacey shares her journey of moving into a fixer-upper, balancing life as a homeschooling mom, and transforming her attitude towards housework. They discuss practical tips such as using alignment cards, setting priorities, embracing daily Bible reading, and implementing 10-minute cleaning sessions. Stacey also emphasizes the importance of finding contentment and the impact of attitude on family life. Learn how to manage your home cheerfully and to the glory of God in this enriching discussion.Mystie Winckler encourages moms to organize their attitudes and get traction at home so we are no longer overwhelmed or frustrated with homemaking. We are a community of Christian women striving to be competent, cheerful homemakers so we are fruitful, faithful, and hospitable. Subscribe for regular encouragement!

Discover homemaking tips, faith-based organization, & routines for managing family life. Overcome overwhelm with simple, joyful strategies!Enroll today: https://convivialcircle.comIn this episode of the Simplified Organization podcast, a seasoned homemaker and mother , Cassy Satterfield, shares her journey from overwhelming burnout to finding peace and purpose in her daily routines. She discusses her initial struggles managing family life and homeschooling, especially after a health diagnosis and a busy family schedule, and how she searched for ways to handle her growing to-do list. Through a supportive community, she learned the value of small, focused steps like using a “daily card” and doing a weekly review, which helped her prioritize what truly matters each day. Cassy also touches on shifting her mindset from trying to "get it all done" to viewing homemaking as a path to personal growth and sanctification. Join us to hear inspiring advice on simplifying routines, building momentum, and finding joy in the daily journey of homemaking and motherhood.Mystie Winckler encourages moms to organize their attitudes and get traction at home so we are no longer overwhelmed or frustrated with homemaking. We are a community of Christian women striving to be competent, cheerful homemakers so we are fruitful, faithful, and hospitable. Subscribe for regular encouragement!

Women need to have friends to chat with. If we can cut through feminist lies and envious striving, we can have conversations with friends and with our husbands that lead to wisdomMystie Winckler encourages moms to organize their attitudes and get traction at home so we are no longer overwhelmed or frustrated with homemaking. We are a community of Christian women striving to be competent, cheerful homemakers so we are fruitful, faithful, and hospitable. Subscribe for regular encouragement!

Followup with the Joy Reset Masterclass: https://simplyconvivial.com/joy-resetUnderstand the importance of defining room purposes and how small steps impact household harmony. Discover how a mother's attitude influences family well-being and practical steps for personal and household improvement. This episode also explores organizing attitudes, emphasizing their role in glorifying and enjoying God. Find out how repentance and action can transform default attitudes and foster a healthy emotional state. Examine the balance between housework and emotional well-being, avoiding guilt while maintaining order. Finally, discover practical steps, including brain dumps and baby steps, to enhance home organization, with real-life success stories. The Joy Reset Workshop provides further insights into building habits for lasting joy and resilience.00:00 Introduction and Pebbles' Creative Space01:36 Joy Reset Masterclass Announcement02:53 Organizing Our Attitude03:32 Convivial Circle Membership Benefits04:16 Introduction to Today's Session11:36 Purpose of Attitude in Homemaking12:48 The Role of Attitude in Glorifying God16:54 Impact of a Mother's Attitude on Family19:24 Repentance and Transformation29:38 Practical Steps for Organizing Attitude38:32 Encouragement and TestimonialsMystie Winckler encourages moms to organize their attitudes and get traction at home so we are no longer overwhelmed or frustrated with homemaking. We are a community of Christian women striving to be competent, cheerful homemakers so we are fruitful, faithful, and hospitable. Subscribe for regular encouragement!

Joy Reset Masterclass: https://simplyconvivial.com/joy-reset Mystie Winckler encourages moms to organize their attitudes and get traction at home so we are no longer overwhelmed or frustrated with homemaking. We are a community of Christian women striving to be competent, cheerful homemakers so we are fruitful, faithful, and hospitable. Subscribe for regular encouragement!

Sign up for the free challenge - https://simplyconvivial.com/october/ - Get momentum by joining hundreds of other women in weekly action – with many opportunities for prizes!Every Monday we'll kick off with a new checklist and a YouTube live mini workshop on that week's area of focus.Every day you'll get a quick-hit reminder email, helping you break down the weekly checklist and stay on target. The email will link to a daily podcast and the weekly blog post.Every weekend a new prize opportunity will open up for everyone who finishes the checklist. Plus, all month long there will opportunities to enter the end-of-the-month giveaway extravaganza.You'll see real results with less time than you'd think! Plus, it will be fun!WHEN YOU PARTICIPATE IN ORGANIZE OCTOBER, YOU'LL SEE THESE RESULTS:Clearer Mind - By brain-dumping each week, you'll understand what's dragging you down and what you need to change.Cleaner House - Tackle small but significant cleaning tasks that have outsized benefits – and learn why they do!Happier Heart - As we clean specific parts of our house, we'll also organize our attitude so we can have the happy home we want.Mystie Winckler encourages moms to organize their attitudes and get traction at home so we are no longer overwhelmed or frustrated with homemaking. We are a community of Christian women striving to be competent, cheerful homemakers so we are fruitful, faithful, and hospitable. Subscribe for regular encouragement!

Start the FREE challenge: https://simplyconvivial.com/octoberThe living room is aptly named. It is a room for living, not for showing off. In the living room we read, talk, and form connections with one another and friends. We study, work, and relax. The living room is for conversations and cuddles.If a living room is where we live together and relax, we have to adjust our approach accordingly. If we put time in cleaning, organizing, and decorating, the point of that effort isn't to turn it into a showroom. Mystie Winckler encourages moms to organize their attitudes and get traction at home so we are no longer overwhelmed or frustrated with homemaking. We are a community of Christian women striving to be competent, cheerful homemakers so we are fruitful, faithful, and hospitable. Subscribe for regular encouragement!

Take the challenge: https://simplyconvivial.com/octoberJoin Mystie Winckler as she launches the Organize October challenge, a month-long initiative created to help Christian stay-at-home moms improve their homes and attitudes. In this first episode, Mystie discusses the purpose behind the challenge, the weekly YouTube lives, and the daily tasks involved. This week's focus is on organizing and optimizing your kitchen with a brain dump, baby steps, and iteration methods. Mystie emphasizes the importance of gratitude, realistic expectations, and engaging one's creativity in homemaking. Participants will receive weekly checklists, mini-podcast episodes, and opportunities to share their progress, all aimed at fostering an engaged and joyful approach to housework.00:00 Welcome to Organize October!01:33 Weekly Focus and Checklists03:34 Giveaways and Prizes07:02 Meet Mystie Winckler14:01 The Importance of the Kitchen25:05 Steps to Organize Your Kitchen34:18 Repent, Rejoice, Repeat36:37 Final Thoughts and Encouragement

Join the free homemaking challenge: https://simplyconvivial.com/octoberThis October, we will move through the house week by week, rethinking our attitude and approach in each area, while also tackling the actual space.My goal for October is to initiate tangible and meaningful baby-step organization tasks that will truly make a difference in your home. Sign up at simplyconvivial.com/october to get each checklist and the chance to enter the giveaways. Subscribe to my YouTube channel, Simplified Organization Podcast, and Simply Convivial Podcast for more insights. Tell your friends about Organize October so they don't miss out either!Mystie Winckler encourages moms to organize their attitudes and get traction at home so we are no longer overwhelmed or frustrated with homemaking. We are a community of Christian women striving to be competent, cheerful homemakers so we are fruitful, faithful, and hospitable. Subscribe for regular encouragement!

Build friendships around homemaking: https://simplifiedorganization.comTrue Friendship and Homemaking: Insights from Anne of Green GablesMystie Winckler, Karen Head, Adelaide Garner, and Kate Myers discuss the true essence of friendship,  using examples from C.S. Lewis and 'Anne of Green Gables.' They explore how intellectual alignment and shared ideals form deeper connections. Discover practical steps for homemakers to cultivate meaningful, long-lasting friendships. The episode offers insight into balancing close-knit relationships, differentiating between mere companionship and genuine friendship, and the importance of navigating female friendship dynamics gracefully.00:00 Introduction to Friendship and Society's Challenges00:38 Welcome to Simplified Organization Podcast01:25 Exploring Feminine Struggles in Friendships01:56 Types of Friendships and Their Dynamics02:50 The Role of Ideals in Friendships03:49 The Pitfalls of Seeking Friendship for Its Own Sake06:09 The Influence of Literature on Friendship Perceptions08:40 The Evolution of Anne and Diana's Friendship12:40 The Impact of Friendship on Personal Growth17:42 Concluding Thoughts on Friendship18:58 Preview of the Final Part of the ConversationMystie Winckler encourages moms to organize their attitudes and get traction at home so we are no longer overwhelmed or frustrated with homemaking. We are a community of Christian women striving to be competent, cheerful homemakers so we are fruitful, faithful, and hospitable. Subscribe for regular encouragement!

Help your friends talk homemaking: https://simplifiedorganization.comUnpacking Friendship: Insights from C.S. Lewis's 'The Four Loves' – Part 2In this episode of the Simplified Organization Podcast, Mystie Winckler and her guests, Karen Head, Adelaide Garner, and Kate Myers, delve deeper into the concept of friendship as depicted in C. S. Lewis's book, 'The Four Loves.' They explore the distinction between true friendships and general acquaintances, discussing the unique spiritual depth and co-laboring nature of genuine friendships. The conversation touches on potential pitfalls of friendship and compares them to family and marital relationships, incorporating personal anecdotes and interpretations of Lewis's views. They conclude by emphasizing the importance of intellectual stimulation and mutual support in friendships, paving the way for a more profound connection.00:00 Introduction to Deep Friendships00:44 Welcome to the Simplified Organization Podcast01:19 Exploring C.S. Lewis's Views on Friendship02:12 Debating the Elevation of Friendship03:49 C.S. Lewis's Life and Friendships05:08 The Role of Friendship in Personal Growth07:53 Friendship vs. Comradeship10:26 The Exclusivity and Depth of True Friendship17:08 Friendship as a Source of Support and Perspective18:52 Conclusion and Next StepsMystie Winckler encourages moms to organize their attitudes and get traction at home so we are no longer overwhelmed or frustrated with homemaking. We are a community of Christian women striving to be competent, cheerful homemakers so we are fruitful, faithful, and hospitable. Subscribe for regular encouragement!

Start a local group: https://simplifiedorganization.comMystie Winckler, Kate Myers, Karen Head, and Adelaide Garner discuss CS Lewis' Four Loves and the best ways for women to make and maintain friendships.The Four Loves: https://amzn.to/3MFFa71Building Meaningful Friendships: Insights from C.S. Lewis's 'The Four Loves'In this episode of the Simplified Organization Podcast, Mystie Winckler, Karen Head, Adelaide Garner, and Kate Myers discuss the importance of community and friendship through the lens of C.S. Lewis's book 'The Four Loves.' The conversation explores how group dynamics contribute to stable, long-term friendships and the value of camaraderie among women. Women must remember to balance close, intimate connections and broader community ties. One beautiful part of friend groups is how they bring out different facets of each individual.00:00 The Importance of Community in Friendships00:37 Introduction to the Simplified Organization Podcast01:14 A Unique Episode on Friendship02:07 Discussing C.S. Lewis's 'Four Loves'03:42 The Dynamics of Group Friendships07:39 Personal Experiences and Reflections09:17 Defining Friendship According to C.S. Lewis11:47 How Our Friendship Began13:52 The Divine Aspect of Friendship15:06 Conclusion and Importance of Cultivating Friendships

Start a local group! https://shop.simplyconvivial.com/local-group/Meghan Jackson has started a local homemaking study group. She shares her group's dynamics, initial ice-breaking activities, and the profound impact on their attitudes towards homemaking. Moms in the study report significant positive changes, including improved family interactions and overcoming perfectionism. You can do the same in your local area!00:00 Introduction to the Podcast and Guest01:21 Starting the Study Group02:18 Icebreakers and Group Dynamics03:46 Progress and Feedback04:33 Impact on Attitudes and Homes07:40 Group Meetings and Logistics11:26 Reflections and Future Plans14:55 Conclusion Mystie Winckler encourages moms to organize their attitudes and get traction at home so we are no longer overwhelmed or frustrated with homemaking. We are a community of Christian women striving to be competent, cheerful homemakers so we are fruitful, faithful, and hospitable. Subscribe for regular encouragement!

https://simplyconvivial.com/art-of-homeschoolingMaximize Your Homeschooling Hours: Tips for Focus and SuccessDevote specific hours, called sacred school hours, to focus solely on school work. Parents should minimize distractions, such as household chores and social media, during these hours. The emphasis is on being present and available to support children's learning in an environment filled with potential distractions.Our best homeschool accountability advice - Build in frequent check-ins (the younger the student, the more frequent the check ins), not only to celebrate the small steps of progress along the way, but also to make sure they're not dawdling.Dawn Garrett lives in Ohio with her husband Jason and their three always-homeschooled children - two graduates and a rising senior. In her homeschool, they learn about God and His cosmos by studying the seven liberal arts in order to know Him better, imitate Him and His ways, and share about Him with others. Her home blog – about books school and life – has been at ladydusk for 20 years.Mystie Winckler encourages moms to organize their attitudes and get traction at home so we are no longer overwhelmed or frustrated with homemaking. We are a community of Christian women striving to be competent, cheerful homemakers so we are fruitful, faithful, and hospitable. Subscribe for regular encouragement!

Join us for Art of Homeschooling: https://simplyconvivial.com/art-of-homeschoolingImperviousness is a new word for many of us, but it's a word and a mode that we need to be successful homeschool moms who guide our children through their various phases into functioning adulthood. Homeschooling is not always going to be rainbows and roses, and we have to be prepared to weather the storms of our children's displeasure if we're going to effectively shape their loves and lifestyle.Lauren Scott makes her home in the foothills of the Arkansas Ozarks, where she and her husband Nathaniel are raising their two energetic teenage boys on the Scriptures, living books, the great outdoors, and lots of meaningful work experiences. Lauren has been home educating now for over a decade and organizes a local co-op. She's an avid gardener and reader, and she writes about the Christian life, books, and homeschooling at KeptandKeeping.com.Mystie Winckler encourages moms to organize their attitudes and get traction at home so we are no longer overwhelmed or frustrated with homemaking. We are a community of Christian women striving to be competent, cheerful homemakers so we are fruitful, faithful, and hospitable. Subscribe for regular encouragement!

Learn the Art of Homeschooling: https://simplyconvivial.com/art-of-homeschoolingTransforming Homeschooling with Joy and Preparation | Simplified Organization PodcastLet's chat about the joys of homeschooling and homemaking. Rena shares practical tips and strategies from the 'Art of Homemaking' course that helped her manage her home and homeschooling with gratitude, even through challenging times like pregnancy and the COVID pandemic. They discuss the importance of setting a clear direction, using checklists, preparing in advance, and iterating routines to create a smoother and more joyful homeschooling experience. Rena also highlights the significance of starting the day with a positive mindset and the role of alignment cards in maintaining focus and gratitude.00:00 Introduction to the Podcast00:44 Meet Rena: A Convivial Circle Member01:22 The Art of Homemaking and Homeschooling02:20 Setting Direction and Vision03:24 Practical Tips for Daily Routines05:15 The Importance of Preparation09:04 Iterating and Adapting Homeschool Plans11:56 Starting the School Year Right14:24 The Power of the Alignment Card16:43 Concluding Thoughts and GratitudeMystie Winckler encourages moms to organize their attitudes and get traction at home so we are no longer overwhelmed or frustrated with homemaking. We are a community of Christian women striving to be competent, cheerful homemakers so we are fruitful, faithful, and hospitable. Subscribe for regular encouragement!

Baby Step Bingo starts today: https://simplyconvivial.com/babystepbingo/Gracie shares her experience with the 'Baby Step Bingo' challenge from the Convivial Circle community. They discuss how small steps can make a significant difference, particularly during life transitions such as expecting a new baby. Misty and Gracie explore how structured activities can enhance family productivity and joy, and they emphasize the importance of gratitude and personal choice in homemaking.00:00 Introduction to the Simplified Organization Podcast00:39 Meet Gracie Madwick: A Homeschooling Mom of Nine01:35 Baby Step Bingo: A Fun Family Challenge02:36 Implementing Baby Step Bingo in Family Life04:30 Adapting Baby Step Bingo for Different Ages06:08 Celebrating Success with Family Prizes06:47 Adjustments and Iterations of Baby Step Bingo07:40 Postpartum Pause and Future Plans10:26 Mom's Baby Step Bingo: Thank You Notes11:47 Conclusion and Final ThoughtsMystie Winckler encourages moms to organize their attitudes and get traction at home so we are no longer overwhelmed or frustrated with homemaking. We are a community of Christian women striving to be competent, cheerful homemakers so we are fruitful, faithful, and hospitable. Subscribe for regular encouragement!

Get your children helping around the house: simplyconvivial.com/ehapMystie and Anna Laura Farnham discuss effective methods for managing kids' chores and household tasks. Learn about the Baby Step Bingo challenge, chore charts, and decluttering techniques that turn everyday tasks into engaging activities. Discover how to keep kids motivated and foster a cooperative family environment, ultimately getting more done with gratitude and creativity.Anna Laura and her husband, Gandalf, live in Indiana and have six children ranging in age from toddler to teenager. Before kids, she earned two music degrees in oboe performance and worked in a corporate office, but she has set aside those careers to focus on being a mom and homemaker. She and her family stay busy with church fellowship, several sports, music, reading and generally being creative. **Focus on Baby Steps:** Anna learned to tackle small tasks one at a time, like removing cobwebs or wiping down the washing machine. These small steps made a big difference, especially during hectic times like pregnancy or postpartum.- **Gamified Chores:** Anna translated the lessons from Baby Step Bingo into practical training tools for her children. Tasks are broken into manageable chunks, and the kids get to experience a sense of accomplishment when they check off items from their bingo charts.- **Customizing for Each Child:** Each child's bingo chart is slightly different, catering to their specific needs and capabilities. This ensures that chores aren't monotonous and helps keep the kids engaged.- **Age Appropriateness:** For younger children, like her five-year-old, Anna uses a smaller 4x4 bingo chart and simpler tasks. This approach makes it easier for them to participate and feel involved.- **Encouraging Early Participation:** While her two-year-old doesn't have a structured bingo chart, she imitates her older siblings and helps out in small ways, fostering a sense of contribution from a young age.**Adding Excitement to Household Chores**Anna finds that changing up daily routines with something like Baby Step Bingo can make a big difference. For example, before a holiday or trip, they might include tasks like vacuuming a vehicle or packing clothes in the bingo charts. This adds variety and makes mundane chores exciting.Welcome to the Simplified Organization Podcast - 15 minute conversations with real moms about managing our homes and family life cheerfully to the glory of God. We can actually enjoy housework and love being homemakers when we focus on truth and work with gratitude.00:00 Introduction to the Simplified Organization Podcast00:32 Meet Anna Laura Farnham01:15 Baby Step Bingo: A Game-Changer for Homemaking03:04 Implementing Baby Step Bingo with Kids03:48 Chore Charts and Rewards07:54 Customizing Bingo Cards for Each Child13:47 Gamifying Household Tasks16:07 Conclusion and Final ThoughtsMystie Winckler encourages moms to organize their attitudes and get traction at home so we are no longer overwhelmed or frustrated with homemaking. We are a community of Christian women striving to be competent, cheerful homemakers so we are fruitful, faithful, and hospitable. Subscribe for regular encouragement!

Find Homemaking 101 here: https://shop.simplyconvivial.com/product/homemaking101/Haley Williams, host of the Kindled Podcast, reflects on the challenges and lessons learned from managing a podcast while raising five children. She discusses the initial pressures to maintain a consistent publishing schedule and the eventual shift to a more flexible approach that accommodates her family life. Emphasizing the importance of being grounded in faith, she describes how she finds balance through regular prayer, Bible study, and prioritizing her family's needs. She also touches on engaging her children in meaningful discussions about current events and politics, highlighting the value of adapting expectations and focusing on what truly matters.Mystie Winckler encourages moms to organize their attitudes and get traction at home so we are no longer overwhelmed or frustrated with homemaking. We are a community of Christian women striving to be competent, cheerful homemakers so we are fruitful, faithful, and hospitable. Subscribe for regular encouragement!

Get Homemaking 101 here: https://shop.simplyconvivial.com/product/homemaking101/Mystie Winckler and Haley Williams chat about managing home and family life from a biblical perspective. Feminism has poisoned our view of homemaking more than we realize, and Haley shares how she's seen that in her own life. They also discuss the challenge of balancing business and motherhood, and how they continue reevaluating priorities. Haley shares her personal journey of transitioning from focusing on her web design business to embracing her role at home as a homemaker. All moms need to figure out how to be sure external pursuits do not overshadow family responsibilities. Mystie and Haley provide insights on how to approach homemaking cheerfully, grounded in faith.Mystie Winckler encourages moms to organize their attitudes and get traction at home so we are no longer overwhelmed or frustrated with homemaking. We are a community of Christian women striving to be competent, cheerful homemakers so we are fruitful, faithful, and hospitable. Subscribe for regular encouragement!

Join the Empowered Wife bookclub, starting July 12: https://convivialcircle.comIn essence, by nature, the female is not necessarily floral, pastel, and soft. The female receives and productively transforms what she receives. She embodies and glorifies what she stewards. Feminism has taught women to be insulted when men treat them as special, open doors, carry heavy things, etc. Yet before feminism, women felt such special treatment was their due. Men honor women by giving them special treatment. Women honor men with respect and gratitude. A husband loves his wife by giving to her, by cherishing her - and a wife has to let him cherish her if she's going to get the love and intimacy she actually craves if she's vulnerable and honest enough to admit. Mystie Winckler encourages moms to organize their attitudes and get traction at home so we are no longer overwhelmed or frustrated with homemaking. We are a community of Christian women striving to be competent, cheerful homemakers so we are fruitful, faithful, and hospitable. Subscribe for regular encouragement!

Now, I've read a lot of Christian marriage books that talk about love and respect, but none have actually ever given such specific examples like Empowered Wife. I think a Christian book these days could never be as pointed and blunt and specific as Laura Doyle is because specifies are immediately denounced as legalism.I have been married for over 20 years and have always paid attention to trying to be respectful, but I found her specificity and examples clarifying and helpful. She pulls no punches in saying that a wife respecting her husband in very concrete ways is essential to an intimate marriage.We really have bought the enlightenment and feminist assumptions of the world that if we give respect, we are diminished in some way, and I think Laura Doyle does a great job of giving stories and evidence that we are happier, more secure, more cherished and loved - that is, we are MORE and better when we give over respect and trust, even when it's scary. What have been your takeaways about showing respect? Which of her examples stood out to you or do you have examples of your own of changes you've been able to make to increase the respect you give your husband?Mystie Winckler encourages moms to organize their attitudes and get traction at home so we are no longer overwhelmed or frustrated with homemaking. We are a community of Christian women striving to be competent, cheerful homemakers so we are fruitful, faithful, and hospitable. Subscribe for regular encouragement!

Time management help: https://www.simplyconvivial.com/stop-overwhelmBe a happy wife - at first it seems odd that the first intimacy skill is self-care, is about yourself, but it's all part of taking responsibility for yourself. Start with yourself, not with what other people are doing or saying. Many unhappy wives and homemakers think martyrdom is holiness, that sacrificial love means never thinking about yourself at all - but there is no guilt for taking showers, for enjoying beautifying yourself, for resting with a magazine and a hot cup of coffee, for doing an exercise class or taking music lessons. How can we help our families become flourishing people without also taking the time to flourish ourselves and show them how it's done? I think a lot of the examples of self-care in Empowered Wife are examples of how not to make your contentment and happiness dependent on other people, but just enjoy life as your own person.Join Convivial Circle to read, discuss, and apply this book with Stefani: https://convivialcircle.comMystie Winckler encourages moms to organize their attitudes and get traction at home so we are no longer overwhelmed or frustrated with homemaking. We are a community of Christian women striving to be competent, cheerful homemakers so we are fruitful, faithful, and hospitable. Subscribe for regular encouragement!

Join the Empowered Wife book club inside Convivial Circle: https://convivialcircle.comThe Simply Convivial team discusses what it takes to have a happy marriage - and why that's so important.Empowered Wife (find on Amazon: https://amzn.to/45ju0wY ) sounds cringy and feminist, but it's actually about taking responsibility for yourself, about recognizing and stopping excuses and blaming and complaining, and embracing a femininity that enjoys masculinity. It's "empowered" because wives are the relationship keepers, connection-makers; we do a lot to make everyone around us either flourish or flounder in misery. Laura Doyle teaches 6 skills to foster connection, intimacy, with your husband and in a lot of ways, most of them boil down to learning how to be a happy, content, feminine woman - where feminine doesn't mean frilly and flowery, but biologically and culturally feminine - nurturing, relationship-fostering, connection-making, receptive, grateful home-builders. Then she also throughout admonishes women to not belittle men for being masculine, but be quiet when we're uncomfortable with masculine expressions and appreciate being given special treatment because we're women, and to not emasculate our husbands with disrespect - which she goes to great lengths of very normal examples to show how easily we slip into disrespectful expressions. So I'd love to hear some of your takeaways or thoughts from anywhere in the book, really, about what it means to embrace being a woman, being feminine. Mystie Winckler encourages moms to organize their attitudes and get traction at home so we are no longer overwhelmed or frustrated with homemaking. We are a community of Christian women striving to be competent, cheerful homemakers so we are fruitful, faithful, and hospitable. Subscribe for regular encouragement!

Tune in to this conversation between Sarah Mackenzie and Mystie Winckler all about Sarah's latest picture book. Sarah also shares about why she started a new publishing house for picture books and what life lessons we can learn from Barbara Cooney.Find Sarah's latest picture book here:https://amzn.to/3wRVvkJVisit Waxwing Books:https://waxwingbooks.com/Sarah is the author of Teaching from Rest, The Read-Aloud Family, and several new picture books, including the just-released picture book biography, Because Barbara: Barbara Cooney Paints Her World. She's the host of the Read-Aloud Revival podcast and lives in the Northwest with her husband of 23 years. They've homeschooled all six of their children: 1 college graduate, 2 current college students, and she's still in the weeds with 3 at home!Mystie and Sarah chat about why Sarah started her own publishing house for picture books and also show-and-tell the latest picture book project - Because Barbara: Barbara Cooney paints her world.Mystie Winckler encourages moms to organize their attitudes and get traction at home so we are no longer overwhelmed or frustrated with homemaking. We are a community of Christian women striving to be competent, cheerful homemakers so we are fruitful, faithful, and hospitable. Subscribe for regular encouragement!

Find your vocations: https://simplyconvivial.com/vocguide/Rosemary was recently diagnosed with breast cancer and is currently undergoing treatment, yet she's still checking in with her accountability stand-up group weekly and being such an encouragement in our community.Rosemary I would just love to hear your testimony of seeing God's work in your life and family even as you've been struggling with this new trial.Inside Community Coaching you were sharing about how rewriting your vocation statements helped you step back from stressful responses. I know it's one of those exercises that looks like it's extra, it's gravy. How have you found it helpful to have those vocation statements appropriate to your current season?Rosemary  lives with her husband John and five kids jn beautiful Northern California. She is a homemaker and homeschooler who loves to read, garden, and dance. She is fascinated with teaching and learning in all settings.Mystie Winckler encourages moms to organize their attitudes and get traction at home so we are no longer overwhelmed or frustrated with homemaking. We are a community of Christian women striving to be competent, cheerful homemakers so we are fruitful, faithful, and hospitable. Subscribe for regular encouragement!

Join Jennifer Pepito as she shares her tips on creating a sacred home. Learn how to bring peace and harmony into your space with Jennifer's expert advice about creating your own family mission and rule of life.Book bonuses - https://www.thepeacefulpreschool.com/habitsforasacredhomeJennifer is the host of the Restoration Home podcast, author of Habits for a Sacred Home and the founder of The Peaceful Press (https://thepeacefulpress.com). Jennifer is on a mission to help moms overcome fear and live with wonder and purpose, and her homeschool curriculum empowers this through heroic stories, heartwarming poetry, and engaging life skills development. Jennifer lives in the mountains with her beloved family, where she enjoys reading aloud, working in her garden, and watching the sunset.Mystie Winckler encourages moms to organize their attitudes and get traction at home so we are no longer overwhelmed or frustrated with homemaking. We are a community of Christian women striving to be competent, cheerful homemakers so we are fruitful, faithful, and hospitable. Subscribe for regular encouragement!

Free planner templates: https://convivialplanner.comDo you have a hard time making a planner useful in your day to day life? Do you want to use a planner, but you feel like you're just wasting your time or doing something wrong? Kayse's tips on realistic planning and making a planner fit your life are gold!Kayse's YouTube:  @AnchoredWomen  Kayse's website: https://anchored-women.com/Kayse serves Christian women as a writer + designer, creating home + life management resources that help those women plan their days around what matters most. She designed the S.O.S. Planner, helped over 400 women create custom home management plans, and works with hundreds of women each month inside her membership, teaching them how to plan their days around what matters most. When she's not designing printables or writing essays, you'll find Kayse homeschooling her kids, or reading a cheesy novel with a giant cup of tea in hand.Try Kayse's planner quiz: https://anchored-women.com/quizMystie Winckler encourages moms to organize their attitudes and get traction at home so we are no longer overwhelmed or frustrated with homemaking. We are a community of Christian women striving to be competent, cheerful homemakers so we are fruitful, faithful, and hospitable. Subscribe for regular encouragement!

Free planner templates: https://convivialplanner.comFor years when I was a young mom I'd faithfully use my planner on Monday, filling everything out for the week, and then never look at it again until the next “fresh start” Monday. It seemed like a waste of time, so then I spent some years not bothering with a planner at all. What would you say to the mom who feels disillusioned with planning because her plans never seem to “work” for her?Kayse's YouTube:  @AnchoredWomen  Kayse's website: https://anchored-women.com/Kayse serves Christian women as a writer + designer, creating home + life management resources that help those women plan their days around what matters most. She designed the S.O.S. Planner, helped over 400 women create custom home management plans, and works with hundreds of women each month inside her membership, teaching them how to plan their days around what matters most. When she's not designing printables or writing essays, you'll find Kayse homeschooling her kids, or reading a cheesy novel with a giant cup of tea in hand.Try Kayse's planner quiz: https://anchored-women.com/quizMystie Winckler encourages moms to organize their attitudes and get traction at home so we are no longer overwhelmed or frustrated with homemaking. We are a community of Christian women striving to be competent, cheerful homemakers so we are fruitful, faithful, and hospitable. Subscribe for regular encouragement!

Take the daily card challenge: https://simplyconvivial.com/dailycardLearn how to supercharge your productivity with an index card! In this video, Karen Head shares how using a simple index card can help you stay organized and focused on your daily tasks. Say goodbye to overwhelm and hello to a more productive day!Come to our free Homemaker's CEO Day: https://simplyconvivial.com/ceoMystie Winckler encourages moms to organize their attitudes and get traction at home so we are no longer overwhelmed or frustrated with homemaking. We are a community of Christian women striving to be competent, cheerful homemakers so we are fruitful, faithful, and hospitable. Subscribe for regular encouragement!

Learn how to use the daily card method: https://simplyconvivial.com/indexcardvideo/This month we're talking about daily cards, making a brand new to-do list every day with only 3 things on it. Was this something you jumped right into, were you skeptical, what has been your iteration experience with daily cards?Trisha is a Catholic wife and mother making a home and building a domestic church in Southern Arizona.They discuss the concept of 'daily cards' - a strategy that involves making a daily list of just three tasks to focus on. Despite initial skepticism due to its simplicity, Tricia shares how this approach has brought significant clarity and direction to managing daily tasks amidst the chaos of family life. This method encourages focusing on what's truly important each day to feel accomplished by bedtime. Tricia reveals her personal 'top three' tasks, which typically include homeschooling activities and meal preparation, showcasing the practicality of this method in homemaking. They also touch upon how the flexibility of daily cards helps in adapting to unexpected changes, emphasizing its efficacy in bringing structure, prioritizing tasks, and ultimately achieving a cheerful and grace-filled home management.00:00 Introduction and Guest Introduction01:14 The Concept of Daily Cards01:41 The Power of Three Daily Tasks04:26 Examples of Daily Top Three Tasks07:39 The Impact of Simplified Organization Community Coaching09:19 The Flexibility of the Daily Card12:33 The Daily Card as a Tool for Mindset Shift13:23 Conclusion: Winning the Day with God's Grace and a Post-itA couple months ago you finished community coaching and I just loved this bit from your final assessment! For your win that stuck most, you wrote: “Take a look at the situation, make a reasonable guess and  just start! It's actually a pretty novel idea to me that as my family grows and changes the systems I had in place don't work anymore and the answer isn't always as simple as 'just double the recipe' or 'just run another load of laundry.' I won't find an answer just sitting there wondering where all the groceries or underpants went.” That's so hilarious and so relatable! I'd assume the daily card has been a tactic that helps with just taking a first step, any step, when you wake up and realize things aren't working anymore, right? Mystie Winckler encourages moms to organize their attitudes and get traction at home so we are no longer overwhelmed or frustrated with homemaking. We are a community of Christian women striving to be competent, cheerful homemakers so we are fruitful, faithful, and hospitable. Subscribe for regular encouragement!

Join Sweep & Smile: https://simplyconvivial.com/sweepCreating Effective Homemaking Routines: A Simplified ApproachIn this episode of the Simplified Organization podcast, Mystie Winckle discusses the importance of homemaking routines and how to create cheerful and God-honoring family life. Joined by Stefani Mons, a homeschooling mom from Texas and the community manager at Convivial Circle, she explores the evolution of their own routines, highlighting the shift from no routine to implementing effective daily tidying practices, known as eHAP, and the Sweep and Smile program. They delve into the transformative power of morning and evening routines in making homemaking manageable and joyful rather than overwhelming. The conversation aims to inspire listeners to personalize their cleaning schedules according to their family's needs, addressing perfectionism and the pitfalls of unrealistic standards. This episode encourages a practical approach to homemaking, focusing on small, impactful routines that can be adjusted as life changes.01:11 The Journey to Effective Homemaking Routines02:20 Discovering the Power of Daily Tidying04:42 Implementing Morning and Evening Routines07:04 Adapting Cleaning Routines to Life's Seasons07:35 The Philosophy of Sweep and Smile: Customizing Your Cleaning Routine07:54 The Importance of Baby Steps in Cleaning11:26 Personalizing Your Cleaning Routine with Sweep and SmileMystie Winckler encourages moms to organize their attitudes and get traction at home so we are no longer overwhelmed or frustrated with homemaking. We are a community of Christian women striving to be competent, cheerful homemakers so we are fruitful, faithful, and hospitable. Subscribe for regular encouragement!