Discover the Joy of Homemaking: Tips and Inspiration for a Happy Home

Motherhood is a journey that unfolds in many different ways. Some of us stay at home with our children, some work full time outside the home, some are single moms managing everything on their own, and some are still waiting for their miracles to arrive.

Despite these different paths, one truth remains: we are all homemakers. Being a homemaker means more than just managing a house; it means creating a space where love, growth, and life happen. This post explores what it means to be a homemaker in every season of motherhood and shares a simple, rewarding way to nurture your home—making your own sourdough bread.

A Little Transparency:

This post contains Amazon affiliate links. If you purchase through the links, I may earn a small commission at no extra cost to you. I only recommend products I love or have personally used. Thanks for supporting our blog—and happy planning!

Quick Links:

Jump To Recipe: How to Make a Sourdough Starter for Beginners

Jump To Recipe: Simply Sourdough Bread

What It Means to Be a Homemaker

Homemaking is often misunderstood or undervalued, frequently viewed merely as cleaning, cooking, or organizing. However, it encompasses so much more—it involves establishing a strong foundation for your family's overall well-being and happiness. Homemaking is a heartfelt act of care that influences and shapes the daily lives of our loved ones. Just as God was the first creator of the home, we are called to be life-givers and nurturing homemakers, reflecting divine love through our devotion and care.

"With breath filled-words, He hung the stars to drive the shadows away and flung the planets into motion, setting both time and space. Out of nothing, there was something. In the middle of it all, He built a sacred place, the first home. God was the first homemaker." - Jamie Erickson, Holy Hygge

Embrace Your Journey: Thriving in Every Season of Motherhood

Embrace your season—whether you're a stay-at-home, working, single, or waiting mom—by creating a safe, loving space for your family to flourish. Focus on simple, intentional acts that bring peace and joy. Every season has blessings, and small, purposeful actions cultivate a nurturing home. I've learned to prioritize joy over hustle, as doing too much can lead to tiredness and disconnect. Remember, homemaking looks different for each person, but the goal is the same: give yourself grace, focus on what truly matters, and stay present in the moment.

"You can't always change your circumstances, you can only change your perspective." - Jamie Erickson, Holy Hygge

The Heart of Homemaking: Creating a Love-Filled Home

A home is more than a physical space. It is where memories are made, where children learn values, and where relationships grow. Homemaking involves:

Providing Comfort

This can be as simple as a warm meal or a cozy blanket. Comfort helps family members feel secure and cared for.

Building Traditions

Traditions give a family a sense of identity and belonging. Whether it’s a weekly movie night or holiday rituals, these moments strengthen bonds.

Encouraging Growth

A home should be a place where everyone can learn and grow. This includes emotional support, education, and opportunities for creativity.

Managing Practical Needs

From meal planning to cleaning, practical tasks keep the home functioning. These tasks may seem routine but are vital to daily life.

"The mom's straining under the weight of making a home that their children will both enjoy now, and want to come back to someday." - Jamie Erickson, Holy Hygge

Making Your Own Sourdough Bread: A Homemaker’s Joy

Not long after leaving my full-time job to raise my babies, I learned that no homemaking journey is complete without baking your own bread—especially sourdough. Initially intimidated by the process, I created an easy guide to help you make your own sourdough starter.

Baking bread brings warmth and joy to any home, and I believe that the skill of making fresh bread is valuable for moms in any season. It’s a simple act that connects us to tradition, patience, and the joy of creating nourishment from scratch. Beyond the aroma and taste, homemade bread becomes a symbol of care and intentionality, enriching your family’s home and fostering a sense of accomplishment and connection.

"As the Bread of Life, Jesus knew that inviting someone to the table was never just about eating. It was always about nourishment. It was always about life." - Jamie Erickson, Holy Hygge

Nourish Your Body and Soul with Whole Grain Flour

Before starting your journey, here is some important information on choosing the right flour. The healthiest flour for sourdough bread depends on your dietary preferences and health goals. Generally, whole grain flours are considered better options because they retain more nutrients and fiber. Some of the best choices include:

• Whole Wheat Flour: Rich in fiber, vitamins, and minerals, making it a nutritious option.

• Unbleached Whole Grain Flour: Less processed than refined flour, retaining more nutrients.

• Spelt Flour: An ancient grain with a similar nutrient profile to wheat but often easier to digest.

• Einkorn Flour: An ancient wheat variety with higher protein and mineral content.

• Rye Flour (preferably whole grain): Adds nutrients and flavor, and is lower in gluten, which can be easier for some to digest.

For optimal health benefits, opt for unbleached, minimally processed, whole grain flours. Using these in your sourdough can boost its nutritional profile.

Why Sourdough? The Natural Choice for a Healthier Bread

Better Digestibility

The fermentation process breaks down gluten and other difficult-to-digest components, making it easier on the digestive system.

Rich in Nutrients

Sourdough contains natural probiotics that support gut health, as well as B vitamins, antioxidants, and minerals like iron and magnesium.

Lower Glycemic Index

Sourdough has a lower glycemic index, which means it causes a slower rise in blood sugar levels, making it a healthier choice for stabilizing energy and managing blood sugar.

Fewer Additives

Homemade sourdough is free from preservatives, artificial additives, and preservatives often found in processed breads.

Enhanced Flavor and Texture

The fermentation process develops complex flavors and a chewy texture that many find more satisfying and enjoyable.

Supports Gut Health

Probiotics formed during fermentation can help balance gut bacteria, promoting overall digestive health.

How to Make a Sourdough Starter for Beginners

Ingredients:

• 1/2 cup whole wheat or rye flour (rich in nutrients to help fermentation)

• 1/2 cup water (filtered or non-chlorinated)

Equipment:

• A glass container (about 1-quart size)

• A spoon or spatula

• A breathable cover (cloth or paper towel) and a rubber band

Step-by-Step Instructions:

Day 1:

Mix: Combine 1/2 cup flour and 1/2 cup water in your container. Stir until smooth—you'll get a thick, porridge-like batter.

Cover: Cover loosely with a cloth or paper towel secured with a rubber band to keep out dust and insects but allow airflow.

Rest: Leave at room temperature (about 70-75°F / 21-24°C) for 24 hours.

Day 2:

Check: You might see some bubbles—this is a good sign of fermentation! It’s normal if you don’t see much yet.

Feed: Discard about half of the starter (roughly 1/2 cup), then add 1/2 cup flour and 1/2 cup water. Mix thoroughly.

Cover and Rest: Cover loosely again and let sit for another 24 hours.

Days 3-7:

Repeat Feeding: Each day, discard half and feed with 1/2 cup flour + 1/2 cup water.

Look for Activity: Over these days, the starter should begin bubbling more actively, developing a pleasant sour smell, and doubling in size between feedings.

Adjust Consistency: If it's too thick, add a little more water; if too runny, add a bit more flour.

Tips for Success:

• Use good quality flour for better flavor.

• Use filtered or non-chlorinated water, as chlorine can inhibit fermentation.

• Consistency should be like thick pancake batter.

• Keep it in a warm spot, but not in direct sunlight.

• Be patient! Don’t rush the fermentation process. It can take about a week for your starter to become strong enough for baking.

• Enjoy the process, even if your first loaf isn’t perfect.

When it's ready: The starter will be bubbly, have a pleasant sour smell, and consistently double in size after feedings. You can now use it to bake delicious bread!

Simply Sourdough Bread: Nourishing Homemade Goodness

Once your starter is active and ready, you can begin making your sourdough bread! Here's a simple recipe to get you started. While this is a great basic bread recipe, there are countless delicious recipes and creations you can make using sourdough starters, from pancakes and waffles to pizza dough and even crackers. The possibilities are endless when it comes to harnessing the power of your sourdough starter!

Simply Sourdough Bread

Ingredients:

• 1 cup active sourdough starter

• 3 ½ cups all-purpose or bread flour

• 1 ¼ cups water

• 1 ½ teaspoons salt

  
  

Steps:

1. Mix the dough:

   • In a large bowl, combine the starter, flour, and water.

   • Mix until a shaggy dough forms.

   • Cover and let it rest for 30-45 minutes.

2. Add salt and knead:

   • Add salt to the dough.

   • Mix thoroughly. You can knead by hand or perform a series of stretch-and-folds in the bowl every 30 minutes for about 2 hours to develop gluten.

3. Bulk fermentation:

   • Cover the dough with a damp cloth or plastic wrap.

   • Let it rise at room temperature (around 70°F/21°C) for 4-6 hours, until it has visibly expanded and feels airy.

4. Shape the loaf:

   • Gently turn the dough onto a floured surface.

   • Shape it into a round or oval loaf.

   • Place it in a floured banneton basket or a bowl lined with a cloth, seam-side up.

5. Second rise (proofing):

   • Cover and let it rise again for 2-4 hours at room temperature, or refrigerate overnight for a slow cold rise.

6. Bake:

   • Preheat your oven to 450°F (230°C). If you have a Dutch oven, heat it inside the oven.

   • Carefully transfer the loaf onto parchment paper if using a Dutch oven.

   • Score the top with a sharp knife or razor.

   • Bake covered for 20-25 minutes, then uncover and bake another 15-20 minutes until golden brown.

7. Cool and enjoy:

   • Let the bread cool on a wire rack for at least an hour before slicing.

Final Thoughts on Homemaking

Motherhood and homemaking are journeys filled with both challenges and rewards, each season bringing its own joys and demands. Embracing your role as a homemaker—celebrating small wins, seeking support, practicing self-care, and creating meaningful moments—helps build a home filled with love, resilience, and hope.

Whether caring for toddlers, managing a career, or waiting for a child, your everyday acts shape your family’s lives and your own growth. By cherishing these moments and embracing the unique seasons of life, you nurture not only your loved ones but also your heart, turning ordinary routines into lasting memories of love and connection.

Subscribe Now