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Homestead Blog Hop - Homestead tips, ideas, animal care, and recipes every Wednesday

Homestead Blog Hop 575 – Turkey, Broth, and Homemade Mozzarella

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I’m so excited to try our featured recipes this week: turkey brine bomb, homemade bone broth and meat broth differences, and how to make mozzarella at home.

Share your own recipes and DIYs below. I just shared how to make your own yogurt this week. Do you have an instant pot? Use the yogurt setting or use the light in your oven. You can make yogurt at home.

Welcome to the Homestead Blog Hop!

Homestead Blog Hop will take place every Wednesday and is for all things homesteading: real food recipes, farm animals, crafts, DIY, how-to’s, gardening, anything from-scratch, natural home/health, self-sufficiency, self-reliance, natural remedies, essential oils, & more! Basically, anything related to homesteading.

Meet Your Hosts!

Follow Their Blogs

Natasha – Houseful of Nicholes (Facebook | Pinterest | Twitter | Instagram)

Laurie – Ridge Haven Homestead (Facebook | Pinterest | Instagram)

Liz – The Cape Coop (Facebook | Pinterest | Twitter | Instagram)

Kelly – Simple Life Mom (Facebook | Pinterest | Instagram)

FEATURED POSTS from the Last Homestead Blog Hop

Each week we take turns choosing three posts to feature. Each post will be shared on all social media platforms by all of the hosts! Here are the features from Last Week’s Hop:

1. Bone Broth vs. Meat Broth from The Once and Future Homestead

2. Fresh Made Mozzarella Cheese from Homemade on a Weeknight

3. Brine Bomb Smoked Turkey from That Guy Who Grills

Congrats! Feel free to grab the featured on button for your post.

Just right click and ‘save image as…‘

Guidelines for this Get-Together:

  1. Click on the “Add your Link” Button below and add a great image of your project or recipe. Make sure you link to the page of your family friendly post – not the main page of your blog.
  2. Link up to three posts each week.
  3. Try to visit at least a few other blogs at the party. Be sure to leave a comment to let them know you stopped by.
  4. Link your post back to the Homestead Blog Hop. If the hop isn’t linked to your post then you cannot be featured. All featured posts will be shared on all hosts’ social media channels.
  5. Please link up posts that you haven’t linked to the hop before. You are welcome to link old posts from your blog.
  6. By joining the party, you are giving the hosts permission to use one photo from your post with a link back to your site if it is selected as one of next week’s Features.
  7. This is a family-friendly link up meant to inspire and motivate the homesteader in all of us.

Let the Party Begin!

Join Our Pinterest Board

Follow all your hosts on Pinterest and send me a message that you’d like to be added to our Homestead Blog Hop group board. The only rule is to only add posts that you’ve also added here.

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Protein_Cinnamon_Rolls

Homemade Protein Cinnamon Rolls Recipe (With Greek Yogurt)

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There’s something so magical about pulling some warm cinnamon rolls from the oven on a chilly morning. These high protein cinnamon rolls are an easy way to get all the magic, without all of the sugar or junky ingredients. My kids love these and because they have no yeast, they’re ready in less than an hour!

More people are focusing on protein now because of its benefits for building and maintaining muscle. You’ll find plenty of new protein bars on the market in tons of flavors and more brands are adding protein to various foods. While I’m all for more protein, the quality matters. Ingredients like GMO soy protein or whey protein from CAFO cattle may do more harm than good. 

While we’re probably a ways off from buying healthy high protein cinnamon rolls in a tube at the grocery store, you can easily make them at home!

Healthy Cinnamon Rolls

So, are cinnamon rolls healthy? They’re certainly not in the same category as pasture raised meats or organic veggies, but it is possible to make a healthier version of cinnamon rolls. Instead of gobs of sugar these protein cinnamon rolls are naturally sweetened with coconut sugar and raw honey. No sugar cinnamon roll recipes usually call for sugar alcohols that can cause digestive issues for many people. That’s not what you’ll find here, but they’re still mildly sweet and absolutely delicious. 

Protein Cinnamon Roll Ingredients

Now that my Hashimotos is gone and I’m able to eat a wider variety of healthy foods, I’ll eat gluten on occasion. I still avoid bleached, enriched, glyphosate sprayed conventional flour, but sometimes I pull out organic flour for baking. You can easily make these protein cinnamon rolls gluten free though with a gluten free flour blend. Just be sure to choose one that has clean ingredients, like this one. 

Greek yogurt is one of the main ingredients in the creamy frosting and to gives the rolls a protein boost. If you need dairy free, then a really thick coconut milk yogurt could work, but I haven’t personally tried it. 

Instead of making cottage cheese or whey protein cinnamon rolls, I used a different version of protein for these. I used Equip Prime protein which is made from beef protein, collagen, and gelatin. It’s a nose to tail protein source, but it’s not gritty or beefy tasting. If you don’t have any on hand, then collagen powder will also work. 

Protein Cinnamon Rolls with Greek Yogurt

Protein Cinnamon Roll Dough

Greek Yogurt Frosting

  • 4 oz cream cheese (softened)
  • ½ cup plain Greek yogurt (whole milk for best texture)
  • 2 TBSP raw honey (or to taste)
  • 1 tsp vanilla extract
  • 1 pinch salt

  • In a large bowl, whisk together the flour, protein powder, baking powder, salt, cinnamon, and coconut sugar.

  • Add the Greek yogurt and melted coconut oil, then stir until a soft dough forms. If the dough feels too dry, add milk or water a tablespoon at a time until it comes together.

  • Knead gently on a floured surface for 1–2 minutes, just until smooth.

  • Roll the dough into a rectangle about ¼ inch thick. Spread softened butter evenly over the surface.

  • In a small bowl, mix the coconut sugar and cinnamon, then sprinkle evenly over the dough.

  • Roll it up tightly into a log and slice into 8 even rolls.

  • Place the rolls in a greased 8×8-inch baking dish or parchment-lined skillet. Bake at 350°F for 20–25 minutes, until golden brown. Let cool slightly before frosting.

  • In a medium bowl or stand mixer bowl, beat the cream cheese until smooth. Add Greek yogurt, honey, vanilla, salt, and (optional) protein powder. Mix until thick and creamy. Spread generously over the warm, but not hot rolls.

Nutrition Facts

Protein Cinnamon Rolls with Greek Yogurt

Amount Per Serving (1 roll)

Calories 303
Calories from Fat 108

% Daily Value*

Fat 12g18%

Saturated Fat 8g50%

Trans Fat 0.1g

Polyunsaturated Fat 1g

Monounsaturated Fat 2g

Cholesterol 31mg10%

Sodium 260mg11%

Potassium 282mg8%

Carbohydrates 40g13%

Fiber 2g8%

Sugar 12g13%

Protein 10g20%

Vitamin A 283IU6%

Vitamin C 0.1mg0%

Calcium 160mg16%

Iron 2mg11%

* Percent Daily Values are based on a 2000 calorie diet.

For a thicker frosting, chill it for 10–15 minutes before spreading.

Serving High Protein Cinnamon Rolls

These taste so good when they’re still slightly warm and fresh from the oven. If you know you’re not going to eat them right away, then save the frosting for right before serving. Store any leftovers in the fridge in an airtight container for up to 4 days.

What are some of your favorite baked goods to make? I’d love to hear about it in the comments!

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Step by Step, Easy, Homemade Yogurt Recipe from Simple Life Mom

How to Make Homemade Yogurt

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Who knew that making homemade yogurt could be so simple? Homemade yogurt is actually super easy and really versatile. Instead of dealing with extra, unneeded ingredients, you can make homemade yogurt and add fresh fruit or eat it with homemade granola.

It really is easy!

Best Milk for Homemade Yogurt

If you can get your hands on some raw milk, you will avoid the harm that occurs at the cellular level from homogenization, and you’ll retain the good bacteria that usually gets destroyed through pasteurization.  The scare from raw milk started with industrialization and people moving away from farms and into the cities.  Milk took longer to get from the cow to the people’s homes. But treated properly, it is really the only milk you should be drinking.

Raw milk is also beneficial because it already has the nutrients in it ready to make yogurt, but if you need to buy pasteurized milk that’s ok too.

What about percentage?

I’ve only made homemade yogurt with whole milk, but I have a friend who uses 2% and it sets up just fine.

4 Step Homemade Yogurt Process:

Follow these few easy steps and you’ll have fresh, delicious yogurt that you’ve learned to make yourself!

1) First, in a large pot, gently bring one gallon of milk up to 180 degrees Fahrenheit, and then remove it from heat and cool to 110 degrees Fahrenheit. 

By completing the heating process, you prepare the milk to be thicken smoothly by denaturing the whey protein. If you slowly heat it and remove it from the heat immediately, you will not kill all the good bacteria in your raw milk. You can still make good yogurt if you skip this step, but sometimes it won’t be as smooth.

2) Once the milk is cooled to 110 degrees Fahrenheit, remove 1 cup to a separate bowl and add a 1/2 cup of organic yogurt with 1 cup of the warm milk. Mix well, then pour the mixture into the saucepan with the rest of the milk. Milk well again.

It’s important to not add the yogurt when the milk is too hot or you will kill the cultures.

3) If you want to make vanilla yogurt, now is the time to add 2 tablespoons homemade vanilla extract.

4) Pour the milk into sanitized jars and put lids on loosely.  Keep at 110 Fahrenheit for 6 hours without mixing, stirring, or moving! This is important. 

There are a few ways to do this (Choose One):

  1. Put the jars into a yogurt maker that keeps them at 110 degrees Fahrenheit.
  2. Put the jars in a large pot of water on the stove that is already at 110 degrees Fahrenheit and wrap towels around it to keep warm. I’ve done this before, and it stays warm for a very long time. You just need to check occasionally and turn the burner on for a minute or two (REMOVE TOWELS FIRST) if it cools down too much. Watch carefully.
  3. Put the jars in the oven with the light on and place candy thermometer on the rack so you can see the temperature. This usually stays at 110 degrees Fahrenheit for about 4 of the 6 hours. If you turn the oven on, watch it very carefully.

Homemade Yogurt Recipe

Below is the yogurt recipe in a printable format.

Homemade Yogurt Recipe

Yogurt made from scratch

Prep Time20 minutes

Cook Time6 hours

Total Time6 hours 20 minutes

Course: Snack

Keyword: yogurt

Servings: 1 gallon

Author: Kelly

  • 1 gallon milk
  • ½ cup organic yogurt

  • In a large pot, bring the milk up to 180 degrees Fahrenheit. Remove from heat and cool to 110 degrees Fahrenheit.

    1 gallon milk

  • In a separate bowl, mix 1/2 cup organic yogurt with 1 cup of the warm milk, then pour the mixture into the rest of the milk, mixing well. If you want to make vanilla yogurt, now is the time to add 2 tablespoons homemade vanilla extract.

    1/2 cup organic yogurt

  • Pour the milk into sanitized jars and put the lids on loosely. Keep at 110 Fahrenheit for 6 hours without mixing, stirring, or moving if possible.

There are a few ways to do this (Choose one):

  • 1. Put in a yogurt maker that keeps them at 110 degrees Fahrenheit.

  • 2. OR Put the jars in a large pot of water on the stove that is already at 110 degrees Fahrenheit and wrap towels around it to keep warm. I’ve done this before and it stays warm for a very long time. You just need to check occasionally and turn the burner on for a minute or two (REMOVE THE TOWELS FIRST) if it cools down too much. Watch carefully.

  • 3. OR Put the jars in the oven with the light on and place a candy thermometer on the rack so you can see the temperature. This usually stays at 110 degrees Fahrenheit for about 4 of the 6 hours. If you turn the oven on, watch it very carefully.

Special Tips:

Looking for a way to start your yogurt without a yogurt starter culture? Heat 2 cups of milk and then cool it to 110 degrees Fahrenheit. Add 1-1/2 teaspoons of cardamom seeds and let it sit in a warm place for 10-12 hours. This will be your starter. Follow the recipe above and add 1/2 cup of this starter instead of yogurt to your milk.

Have an instant pot? Most instant pots these days have a yogurt setting. Get your milk fully ready to set for 6 hours and instead of incubating them, put them in your instant pot and turn it on to the yogurt setting and you’re done!

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Christmas gifts kids

Creative Christmas Gifts for Kids (With Stocking Stuffer Ideas!)

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At Christmas time, our family focuses on the real joy of the season, like spending time together, giving to those in need, and finding small ways to serve others. But that doesn’t mean we skip gifts! I still love choosing thoughtful Christmas gifts for kids that bring joy without adding clutter or plastic waste.

If you’re shopping for kids who have everything, this list will help. These are the best Christmas gifts for kids. You’ll find gifts big and small, for girls and boys and many that aren’t toys in the traditional sense. Many are unique, personalized, and even free if you get creative. A few are cheap but still meaningful, and several make perfect birthday or special-occasion gifts too.

Christmas Gift Ideas For Kids

Finding the top gifts that last can be tricky. I prefer options made from natural or eco-friendly materials that encourage imagination, creativity, or movement. Over the years, I’ve found that the most loved gifts aren’t the latest fads but the ones that invite connection and discovery.

Some of our family favorites include art supplies, a balance board, a personalized apron for kitchen helpers, and an “epic backyard” (according to my ten-year-old!). These are great for kids who like to fidget or move. For girls who love to create, a simple craft or jewelry kit is always a win.

Gifts That Give Back

Each year, our kids help choose a way to give to others in need. From donating toys to making care packages or volunteering together. These moments remind us that some of the best gifts are those we share. Giving time or kindness is always free, yet it creates the biggest impact.

Sometimes the small things are what children remember most. A homemade coupon book for extra bedtime stories, a family game night, or kids cooking lessons can mean more than anything store-bought.

Whether big or small, cheap or unique, the most meaningful gifts aren’t always wrapped. This year don’t forget to focus on what matters most, connection and the simple joy of giving. The best presents for kids often aren’t toys at all, but memories that last a lifetime.

Christmas Gifts For Teens 

As my kids have gotten older (and even become adults!) their tastes in gifts have changed. These gifts encourage creativity and movement and minimize screen time. 

  1. Magnetic Pen – This fidget toy pen helps them write their thoughts and make their own unique designs. 
  2. Bonsai Tree Kit – They can grow their own Bonsai trees and care for them. 
  3. Vintage Record Player – Old school vinyl is back in style. Gift them a few records to go along with their new player. 
  4. Embroidered Corner Bookmark – A beautiful (and personalized) way to remember what page they’re on. 
  5. Ninja Creami – What kid doesn’t love ice cream? They can make their own healthy ice cream, sorbet, smoothies, and more with this machine.
  6. Book light – This rechargeable book light encourages reading. Plus it can block blue light for better sleep. 
  7. Large Backrest Pillow – Great for lounging in bed to read, color, or just relax. Can also be used on a couch or even the floor and has pockets.
  8. Adult/Teen Lego Sets – These detailed sets are popular among teens and adults alike with dozens to choose from. This orchid lego set is beautiful, or they can create their own Da Vinci flying machine. 
  9. Leather Journal – A beautiful leather journal for sketching, journaling, or even putting stickers in.
  10. Grown-Up Coloring Books – Coloring isn’t just for little kids anymore. This spiral bound “adult coloring book” is very detailed and studies show coloring is relaxing. Or this pack of 10 offers more design options. 
  11. Japanese Puzzle Box – These beautiful puzzle boxes are a unique way for older kids to keep valuable items safe and they’re fun to learn.
  12. Kindle – All the books they could desire at their fingertips. Unlike tablets, Kindle uses warm light and isn’t harsh on the eyes.
  13. Daylight Computer – A tablet that’s easy on the eyes. Take notes, use apps, write… all without blue light. 
  14. Mushroom Growing Kit – They can grow their own organic mushrooms with this kit. 

Gifts For Tweens & Big Kids

A wide variety of gifts that will appeal to both boys and girls who aren’t quite into teenhood just yet. Many of these are also good for elementary age. 

  1. Buddha Board – A relaxing way to paint with water (it evaporates and you can paint again).
  2. Taco Cat Goat Cheese Pizza– Say what?? This wacky game for kids is a hit with my tweens. They also have a holiday themed version.
  3. Spa Headband set – For teen girls. 
  4. Whirly Board – A fun balance board for better agility and to help engage full body strength. 
  5. Book light – This rechargeable book light encourages reading. Plus it can  block blue light for better sleep. 
  6. Pindaloo – This wacky looking game helps teach motor skills as kids try to keep the ball moving. 
  7. Tabletop Hockey – This tabletop version of hockey uses elastic to sling pucks towards your opponents goal. 
  8. Gaga Crazy ball – This modern twist on dodgeball is a fun game the whole family can play. 
  9. Archery Set – My kids have loved these GBG archery sets and these sets are created for kids by kids. They have some helpful videos on their website as well!
  10. Leather Journal – A beautiful leather journal for sketching, journaling, or even putting stickers in.
  11. Rubik’s Cube – The 1980s called, but we told it we’re keeping the Rubik’s Cube. Older kids love learning to solve this retro puzzle.
  12. CrateJoy Subscription Box – You can find dozens of different subscription boxes from CrateJoy from music to stickers, to art, to aliens, or baking.
  13. Build Your Own Programmable Robot Kit – This building kit was a favorite with my oldest. Build a robot and program it!
  14. Grown-Up Coloring Books – Coloring isn’t just for little kids anymore. This spiral bound “adult coloring book” is very detailed and studies show coloring is relaxing. Or this pack of 10 offers more design options. 
  15. Boogie Board – Reusable board that encourages doodling and drawing.
  16. Kindle – All the books they could desire at their fingertips. Unlike tablets, Kindle uses warm light and isn’t harsh on the eyes.
  17. KiwiCo – These subscription boxes offer a variety of learning (and fun!) activities. For tweens and teens pick from options like art, design, and STEM.
  18. Runaway Alarm Clock – Does your teen have trouble waking up? This alarm clock runs away and keeps making noise until caught!
  19. Natural Makeup Brushes – If your teen is old enough to wear makeup, these natural brushes are great!
  20. Collapsible Duffel Bag – Great bag for short trips that collapses to a tiny size, unlike some bulky backpacks.
  21. Slippers (for teenage girls) – Super comfy, barefoot slippers that are still stylish.
  22. Cash inside a Money Maze Puzzle Box – Give money so they can get what they like, but make it fun by hiding it inside this puzzle cube.
  23. No Crease Ponytail Holders – These are really popular right now. They’re gentle on hair and don’t leave a crease. Or I hear that Scrunchies and banana clips are back in style!
  24. Travel Hammock – Have an outdoorsy teen? These travel hammocks collapse small and are awesome. They’re also quite popular on some college campuses.
  25. Become a Beekeeper Course: This is an amazing Introduction to Beekeeping Course. It will help teach them everything from buying bees to harvesting honey. Use code WELLNESS for 25% off!
  26. Kids Daylight Computer – A tablet that’s easy on the eyes. Write, use apps, draw, all without blue light. 
  27. Backyard Bags (also called Cornhole) – This is always a fun game for the backyard. Whether you have guests over or it’s just the two of you, this has been a family favorite in our house.
  28. Slackline – Like a balance beam and trampoline in one. It encourages balance, gross motor skills, and coordination. Plus it’s hours of fun.
  29. Piggy Paint – Non-toxic nail polish in fun colors. 
  30. Ninjaline – Like monkey bars but tougher. A lot of people use these for Ninja Warrior training, but my kids just think it is fun!
  31. Talkbox.Mom – Do your kids want to learn another language? This is a fun way to do that at home and is great for kids of all ages – even the littles!
  32. Water Bottle – Upgrade their water bottle game with these colorful water bottles. It’s what we use to keep liquids cold (or hot) for days.

Best Gifts for Younger Kids

Gifts for kids ages preschool through elementary. Games, crafts, sensory play, audio players, and more. 

  1. Gym 1 Indoor Doorway Gym – My kids’ favorite Christmas gift of all time. It’s a gym that mounts in a door frame and they use it every day.
  2. Snap Circuits – A really neat kit that lets kids learn about electricity by building different types of basic machines like a fan, a radio, etc.
  3. Yoto Player – This screen-free player is designed especially for kids to listen to books, podcast episodes, music, radio, and more by simply inserting a card in. There are over 1,000 options or you can make your own cards. It’s rechargeable and the Bluetooth is optional so you can leave it off.
  4. Art Kit – A favorite among my girls. This art supplies kit contains markers, crayons, colored pencils, and more for arts & crafts.
  5. Personalized Storybook – This personalized gift features your little one’s first name throughout their bedtime story.
  6. Kinetic sand – Perfect for squishing and building with for sensory play.
  7. Flower Press Kit – Kids can create their own stationery, cards, and more with a flower/leaf press.
  8. Mini Trampoline for Indoor Play – We’ve had a trampoline in our house for years and it’s great for cold or rainy days. Rebounding (bouncing) is also great for adults!
  9. Spinkpong Mini Game – Bounce a ball off of a tiny net and try to catch it in the cup. Great for kids to play on their own or with siblings/friends.
  10. Sherwood Player – This player gives kids unlimited access to over 5,000 wholesome audiobooks, podcasts, low-stimulation shows, and books that encourage creativity. Use the code wellnessmama10 for a discount.
  11. Knitting Loom Kit – Kids can make their own cute animals with this craft kit. 
  12. Kids Daylight Computer – A tablet that’s easy on the eyes. Write, use apps, draw, all without blue light with their tablet for ages 3-7. 
  13. Amazon Fire – An affordable tablet with a lot of capabilities.
  14. 3-D Pen – They can design and create what they want with this 3-D pen and DesignPad mat. 
  15. Wooden Twig Colored Pencils – Wooden colored pencils made from twigs. Good size for younger kids just learning to write and draw.
  16. Wooden People and Craft Supplies – My kids loved making their own little wooden dolls and figurines with these.
  17. Grow and Make – They have kits ranging from gardening to making your own box of chocolates.
  18. Natural Paints – Made from natural earth pigments for all your arts and crafts projects.
  19. Microscope Kit – My oldest loved looking at hair, dirt, and all kinds of other things in this microscope. STEM toys (science, technology, engineering, and math) like this one are educational toys but can also be super fun.
  20. Bath Tub Crayons – These beeswax bath time crayons for toddlers are handmade in New Zealand with New Zealand beeswax and food-grade, non-toxic pigments. The jumbo crayons are perfect for toddlers, kids, and children from 2 years old and up.
  21. Doll House – This Melissa & Doug doll house is great for 4-year-old to 8-year-old kids. Fits smaller dolls.
  22. Little Passports – This subscription service tailors to your child’s age and the collection they would most be interested in. (For parents, you can filter by your budget!)
  23. Stainless Steel Play Kitchen Pots and Pans  – My daughters used to play kitchen with these for hours! Get a food play set to go with it.
  24. Beginner Piano Keyboard (and free Hoffman Academy Lessons) – These are a great way to get the kids started with music.
  25. Sun Art – Fun educational craft idea that kids love.
  26. Kendama Game – Fun interactive game that encourages movement.
  27. Weighted Blanket – Not just for kids, but a soothing gift that helps kids get into a restful state and has demonstrated benefits for sleep.
  28. Sensory Swing – If you’re looking for a sensory swing to help your child relax and de-stress, this is the swing for them. The swings are made of quality, comfortable materials your child will want to spend hours in.
  29. Kids Cook Real Food e-Course – Give the gift of quality time and kitchen skills to boot! This course was life-changing for our family.
  30. Trampoline – Not just for kids when you consider the lymphatic benefits of jumping! This makes a great outdoor toy, but we also have a small one inside our house.
  31. Swing – My kids loved this backyard swing.
  32. Logic puzzles or games to develop problem-solving skills (Logic Links and Kanoodle are two of our favorites)
  33. Word games or board games for the next family game night. (We like Boggle, Apples to Apples, Story Cubes, Madlibs Jr.)
  34. KiwiCo – From the toddler stage to preschool, to teens, they offer fun and educational subscription boxes. Choose from a variety including craft kits, science kits, geography kits, and more.
  35. When I Grow Up I Want to Be.…. book. This book is designed for kids and children to answer five or six fun questions to record their interests, talents, strengths, and achievements, and can be a fun career journal. My kids have fun reading what they wrote in their journals years ago!
  36. Playsilks – It’s a cape, it’s a scarf, it’s a dress… it’s playsilks. 
  37. Tinkerlab Book – A guide to using everyday items to create their own inventions, creations, and art projects with help from grownups.
  38. Wildcraft Herbal Board Game – A cooperative game where players learn about herbs and natural remedies. 
  39. Kids Musical Instruments – Made from natural wood to encourage rhythm and movement. 

Baby and Toddler

And of course we can’t forget the littlest ones! These gifts are appropriate for babies and even into the preschool years. If you have an older toddler, be sure to check the gifts for younger kids section above for more ideas. 

  1. Eco-friendly Baby Clothes– There aren’t many things cuter than a baby in organic dino footie pajamas. Check out all of my favorite organic brands for the best baby (and kids) clothes.
  2. Magnetic Drawing Board – Also perfect for traveling. 
  3. Natural baby toys – My favorite brand of baby toys with a wide variety of options. 
  4. Building Blocks – This wooden building set has colorful blocks that encourage building, stacking, and imagination.
  5. Scooter Board – Toys that help with movement are always a big hit around our house. This wooden scooter board is great for toddlers through elementary-age kids.
  6. Personalized Storybook – This personalized gift features your little one’s first name throughout their bedtime story.
  7. KiwiCo – From the toddler stage to preschool, to teens, they offer fun and educational subscription boxes. Choose from a variety including craft kits, science kits, geography kits, and more.
  8. Beeswax Crayons – Jumbo crayons made of natural beeswax. Or try your hand at making your own!
  9. Stainless Steel Play Kitchen Pots and Pans  – My daughters used to play kitchen with these for hours! Get a food play set to go with it.
  10. Wooden Train Set – Let their imaginations run wild with this 100 piece train set.
  11. Rock Crayons – Cute crayons for little hands to hold. Come with a drawstring storage bag. 
  12. Bath Tub Crayons – These beeswax bath time crayons for toddlers are handmade in New Zealand with New Zealand beeswax and food-grade, non-toxic pigments. The jumbo crayons are perfect for toddlers, kids, and children from 2 years old and up.
  13. Wiggle Car – My little kids loved this ride-on toy and they’re great for kids of all sizes.
  14. Wooden Blocks – They can build what they want with this set of 100 natural wooden blocks
  15. Wooden Animal Toys – Adorable and durable wooden animal toys.
  16. Canopy Nursery Air Purifier – This compact and cute air filter is specifically designed for baby’s room.  
  17. Wooden Shape Sorter Garden – An adorable Montessori shape sorter where your toddler can plant their own pretend garden.

Stocking Stuffer Ideas for Kids

  • Little Hero’s Journal for Kids – I’ve used these for years with my kids. I’ve also shared how I use journals to communicate with my daughters as they tend to open up more through writing.
  • Beef jerky or beef sticks (we love this brand)
  • Hot chocolate (I put homemade mix in a small jelly or mason jar with their name on it). A pre-made option is this amazing Cacao Bliss mix.
  • Lotion Bars – These Beesilk lotion bars are amazing for the wintertime and a fun stocking stuffer. Use code wellnessmama for a discount!
  • Lip Balm with natural essential oils in delicious scents and flavors. Check out their seasonal versions!
  • Bubble bath (or you can mix up your own DIY bubble bath in minutes with a few simple ingredients!)
  • New Toothbrush, Strawberry toothpaste, or Floss picks
  • Vitamins that taste great without added sugar or any of the junk
  • A coupon to stay up an hour late
  • Movie night with favorite dessert coupon
  • A coupon to pick the meals for a day
  • Mini photo book with family memories and inspirational quotes
  • Movie tickets or gift certificates
  • Fun Scrunchies
  • Fun plates or cups from Ahimsa. They’re plastic-free and my kids love them!
  • A card game or dice game of any kind – Zobmondo is a hit with the older kids in my house.
  • Crochet kit for kids
  • Give them “coal” in their stocking with this charcoal soap bar
  • Cash or gift card inside a Money Maze gift box
  • Hiya Vitamins – My kids love their tasty vitamin subscription and I love that it’s free of junk and fillers. 

What Christmas gifts for kids have your family enjoyed? Are there any you would add to this list? Leave a comment and let us know!

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protein balls

Chai Spice Protein Balls With Adaptogens

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Chai tea is one of my favorites this time of year and I love incorporating chai spices into baked goods. The aroma of cinnamon, clove, and cardamom warming the kitchen feels like a cozy hug. These adaptogenic chai spice protein balls capture that same cozy flavor with the benefit of adaptogens.

They’re slightly sweet, warmly spiced, and have a soft, chewy texture that makes them feel indulgent, even though they’re packed with nutrients. Each protein ball is full of ingredients that help support energy, focus, and immune health. Especially helpful during the colder (often chaotic) months when our bodies could use an extra boost.

These are great to make ahead for snacks and they also freeze well for later. The protein balls provide healthy fats, protein, and adaptogens to help your body handle stress more effectively. Added collagen also supports gut health, healthier skin, and stronger hair and nails. 

Warming Chai Spices

Cinnamon, clove, cardamom, and ginger aren’t just tasty, they offer powerful immune system support. Cinnamon helps balance blood sugar and adds natural sweetness without needing much added sugar. Clove is rich in antioxidants and antimicrobial to help support cellular health. 

Cardamom is both soothing and invigorating, known for its ability to calm digestion while boosting circulation. And ginger brings its signature gentle heat and anti-inflammatory benefits, helping support immune and digestive health.

Together, these cozy chai spices add a delicious flavor and powerful health benefits! While I’ve included the spices separately in the recipe, you can also use 2 and ½ teaspoons of my homemade pumpkin pie spice blend. The flavor is similar, and it’s easy to use if you already have some mixed up. 

Mighty Adaptogens

Adaptogens are plants and mushrooms that help the body be more resilient to stressors. Whether its physical, emotional, or environmental. Unlike potent medicines, they help bolster the body’s cellular health and defenses to restore balance. 

There are several different true adaptogens, and some work better for different situations. I opted to use a functional mushroom blend here because it helps provide broader support than just choosing one thing. 

Adaptogenic mushrooms help support focus, sleep, energy, and calm, depending on which combination you choose. I like the adaptogenic mushroom blends from Four Sigmatic, which often include varieties like reishi, lion’s mane, and cordyceps.

  • Reishi is sometimes referred to as the “queen of mushrooms” for its calming properties. It helps with restful sleep and supports the immune system.
  • Lion’s Mane supports mental clarity and focus. Perfect for that mid-afternoon slump.
  • Cordyceps helps boost stamina and energy naturally without caffeine.

Whatever blend you go with, be sure to choose a quality blend that isn’t overly earthy or bitter so the flavor balances well with chai spices. 

More Healthy Ingredients (and Substitutions)

Collagen is one of my favorite additions to stir into drinks or even baked goods. It’s an easy way to add clean protein that supports gut health, joint health, and vibrant skin. Since collagen is flavorless, it blends seamlessly with the almond butter and spices.

Almond butter (or cashew butter) adds a nutty richness and healthy fats that help keep you full. They also make the protein balls perfectly soft and chewy. If you’re avoiding nuts, sunflower seed butter also works. I don’t recommend peanut butter here, since its strong flavor tends to overpower the delicate chai spices.

Hemp seeds add a pleasant crunch and an extra boost of omega-3s, plus a complete amino acid profile. They’re great for energy, muscle recovery, and healthy hair and skin. Honey helps bind the ingredients together and adds a touch of sweetness, plus enzymes and minerals. If you prefer, pure maple syrup works just as well.

How to Enjoy Them

These chai spice protein balls are wonderful as a quick snack for an afternoon energy boost, or even post-workout. They keep well in the fridge for about a week, and you can easily double the recipe to freeze for later.

It feels like you’re eating dessert, but they’re full of nourishing ingredients. Warming, grounding, and just a little sweet. These are a great go-to snack for supporting focus and calm while keeping your immune system strong through the changing seasons.

Chai Spice Protein Balls

These tasty, bite sized protein balls are naturally sweetened with honey and feature chai flavors. Plus, they contain functional mushrooms for better focus, sleep, and more.

  • Line a baking sheet with parchment paper and set aside.

  • Add all of the ingredients to the bowl of a stand mixer. Start with 1 teaspoon of coconut flour to thicken, and increase if needed. You can also use a hand mixer.

  • Mix thoroughly, taste, and adjust spices if desired.

  • Use a Tablespoon to scoop out the mixture and roll it into balls. Roll the balls into the hemp seeds.

  • Place the rolled balls onto the parchment paper and store in the fridge.

Nutrition Facts

Chai Spice Protein Balls

Amount Per Serving (1 ball)

Calories 145
Calories from Fat 108

% Daily Value*

Fat 12g18%

Saturated Fat 1g6%

Polyunsaturated Fat 5g

Monounsaturated Fat 5g

Sodium 5mg0%

Potassium 112mg3%

Carbohydrates 5g2%

Fiber 2g8%

Sugar 2g2%

Protein 7g14%

Vitamin A 39IU1%

Vitamin C 0.04mg0%

Calcium 63mg6%

Iron 2mg11%

* Percent Daily Values are based on a 2000 calorie diet.

  • Coconut flour helps thicken the dough, but don’t overdo it! Too much and it will get crumbly.
  • Opt for a mushroom powder that has a mild taste. Start with 1 teaspoon and gradually increase to 3 teaspoons if you’re unsure how strong the taste will be. 

More Adaptogen Recipes

We could all use a little more stress relief and resilience! Here are some more recipes that feature adaptogens for a health boost. 

Have you used adaptogens before? What are some of your favorite ways to consume them? Leave a comment and let us know!

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The New Bridal Secret For Calm, De-Puffed, and Radiant Skin

The New Bridal Secret For Calm, De-Puffed, and Radiant Skin

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Every bride dreams of walking down the aisle with glowing, fresh, and stress-free skin. But pre-wedding stress, lack of sleep, and endless preparations can make the skin look tired and puffy. To combat this naturally, home remedies infused with matcha and other kitchen-friendly ingredients can work wonders in achieving calm, de-puffed, and radiant skin — without the need for expensive treatments.

Here are some simple and effective DIY home remedies to help your skin look refreshed and wedding-ready:

1. Matcha and Aloe Vera Cooling Mask

What you need:

  • 1 teaspoon matcha powder
  • 1 tablespoon aloe vera gel
  • 1 teaspoon rose water

How to use:

Mix the ingredients into a smooth paste. Apply it evenly on your face and leave it for 15–20 minutes before rinsing with cool water.

Benefits: Matcha calms inflammation, while aloe vera hydrates and soothes the skin. This mask helps reduce redness and puffiness, leaving the skin soft and refreshed.

2. Green Tea Ice Cubes for Puffiness

What you need:

  • 1 cup brewed green tea (cooled)
  • Ice cube tray

How to use:

Pour the cooled green tea into an ice tray and freeze. Rub one cube gently on your face every morning for an instant tightening and de-puffing effect.

Benefits: The caffeine and antioxidants in green tea boost circulation and reduce puffiness, especially under the eyes.

3. Matcha and Honey Brightening Pack

What you need:

  • 1 teaspoon matcha powder
  • 1 teaspoon raw honey

Few drops of lemon juice (optional for oily skin)

How to use:

Mix well and apply evenly on your face. Leave it for 15 minutes before rinsing off with lukewarm water.

Benefits: Honey provides deep hydration, while matcha detoxifies and brightens. The lemon adds a natural glow by gently exfoliating dead skin cells.

4. Cucumber and Green Tea Toner

What you need:

  • Half a cucumber (blended)
  • 1 cup brewed green tea (cooled)

How to use:

Strain the mixture and store it in a spray bottle. Use it as a facial mist or toner twice daily.

Benefits: This refreshing toner tightens pores, reduces puffiness, and keeps the skin hydrated throughout the day.

5. Matcha and Yogurt Rejuvenating Face Pack

What you need:

  • 1 teaspoon matcha powder
  • 1 tablespoon plain yogurt

How to use:

Combine both ingredients and apply evenly to your face. Let it sit for 20 minutes, then rinse off with cold water.

Benefits: Yogurt’s lactic acid gently exfoliates the skin, while matcha detoxifies and revitalises. This pack gives your skin a smooth, radiant finish.

Bridal Skincare Tip:

Start these remedies at least 3–4 weeks before you’re wedding for visible results. Consistency and gentle care are key — avoid experimenting with too many new ingredients close to the big day.

With these simple, natural remedies, you can harness the soothing and revitalising power of matcha to reveal calm, de-puffed, and luminous skin that glows naturally when it matters most.

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