In my very early married life and older lady gave me advice I never forgot. Don’t worry about the things you haven’t got, and look after the things you have! I’ve always followed that advice given over 60 years ago.
My late mother-in-law was the queen of embracing and caring for what you have no matter its condition or stylishness. Her home was out of date and mismatched, but always warm, cozy and an enjoyable place to be. She kept it clean and very minimal and never complained. I strive to be more like her. Thanks for this reminder today.
Watching this video as a new wife and mother. My husband provides for us so I can stay home to take care of the baby and house. At the beginning of the video I instantly saw your bedroom and thought “wow... look at her nice furniture. I don’t know if we will ever have that.” “Everything is so perfect” and then continuing to watch in awe to see the rip in the couch. Thank you for being so down to earth. I clean and scrub our home every week, until it’s spotless and clean. We live in a trailer. And even though it’s never going to be in a home magazine I am proud of our home. These walls keep us safe, dry, warm and cozy. Thank you for the reminder to be appreciative. God has provided everything our family needs, what more could I ask for? Thank you for sharing.
Erica Hartley and your comment made my day. being a good mom and wife and homemaker are THE most important careers on earth. feminism derides these things to break up families and create drones for the machine. equal pay was never the true goal of the official feminist movement, though a worthy aim. i am also a full time mom and wife. hardest and most worthwhile things i have ever done. much love.
Erica Hartley , I have been married for 34 years. Our first home was a mobile home that we lived in for 10 years. We ‘moved up’ 2 more times to larger homes. Now, my husband is getting ready to retire, so we downsized to our last home. Although it’s not a mobile home, it’s close to the same size as our first home. We love it, and the financial peace of no mortgage. I’m learning after all these years that contentment is a gift.
You know I was just drawn to your Channel ... when I saw the word homemaking.... homemaker.... it just kind of brought tears to my eyes because that is the way women were homemakers an important job ... I just don't think people get that anymore! We made a home for our family... And easy place to fall a place where they're safe ... anyway I just think your video was just lovely! I'm so happy to see a young woman confident in what she's doing and calling herself a homemaker!! Thanks for making my day!
I needed to see this this morning .. Thank you, Jennifer. And praise the Lord for you. Happiness has an old name that most of us forgot - contentment. 🙏 I choose contentment
I literally had tears in my eyes at the end of the video. Thank you Jennifer ...your sisterly, no judgmental voice and message touched my heart! Blessings for everyone 🌺🌸🌷
Dear Jennifer, you brought me to tears with this video! I am what I call “average” , I don’t feel like I excel in anything really. But I am content with what I am able to accomplish in my daily life. I take good care of my house, I home cook and try to lead a modest but meaningful life. However, over the years I have been criticized and put down by countless of people because my average-ness.It seems like no matter what I was doing, it wasn’t ever enough and that many times hurt me. I have been always amazed that the people who were so obsessed with perfection, were also the most unhappy. Staying humble and appreciate what we have is such a powerful message and you voiced it beautifully.Thank you!
A while back I decided not to go on Facebook anymore. A majority of them share only where they go and the vacations they’ve taken. I am lucky that I get to go to the grocery store. So it just makes me feel like I haven’t done enough in life. The top of our sofa looks like that too because we had a little dog that insist on laying on top of that cushion. She even wore the paint off the wall because her tail would go 100 miles a minute. Thank you for showing us your flaws because not one of us is perfect.
@Mel Style -- When you said, "She even wore the paint off the wall because her tail would go 100 miles a minute," that just set me right up for the rest of the day.
Two helpful things also: realize that you are already lucky if you have a home that is safe, meets your needs and is affordable--many people don't have that. And also, if you don't have exactly the things you want right now, keeping them at least clean and organized will still create a cozy home. You can feel a clean home. Thanks for the video!!
Loved this Jennifer. God has blessed me with the gift of hospitality, yet I thought my house had to look or be a certain way for me to exercise it. How many times I could have blessed others but was too concerned about the tear in my sofa or the outdated kitchen. Thanks so much for sharing.
This. So much this. "How many times I could have blessed others" and showed them love. Also how many times I could have enjoyed their company (and life in general)
Michelle, bless your heart! People who love you would love to come. People who felt your home didn't measure up have no place in your home anyway. It's lovely either way.
@@catherinechristie4350 a few months ago, I implemented Friendship Friday where we host another family and I quickly found that no one cares if the floors aren't spotless or the shelves dusted. They just want to enjoy a good time.
Good topic Jennifer. I actually think most of the enemies come under one heading - media - social, print,tv etc... We all need a big reality check. More than 35% of the world's population (2.5 billion people) don't even have access to a toilet. Let's take that figure in for a minute, and the health implications, and the implications for women who don't even have a private place to go to the bathroom. And we are stressed if our decor isn't co-ordinated and upset if we don't have an ensuite. Media has sold us a huge lie, all in the name of money, and most of us have fallen for it big time. If you get a chance take a look at the Blue Zones videos, particularly those filmed in Ikaria. Their homes look as though they haven't been updated since the 50s. But they know what matters - family, food grown at your doorstep, sunshine, sleep, community, sharing. You could patch that sofa so that the tear doesn't go any further and wear that patch with pride. It shows you know what matters. Our planet is being absolutely trashed by our greed for newer and better - we've been brain washed. Let's get back to what matters and be good stewards of the incredible riches we have been blessed with. Looking after the home you have is something to be proud of and grateful for. Anyone who criticises what you have does not deserve your friendship. Madeleine
Oh wow! I think this might actually be my favorite video. I've been a stay-at-home wife my entire 11 years of marriage and I've never really opened my home to people because I always felt that it wasn't good enough. My husband is a physician we've always lived in a beautiful home and we've always had nice things, but still I felt like it wasn't what people expected given our circumstances, but we also do not live beyond our means and are actively planning for retirement. I really needed to hear this. I never thought of myself as a perfectionist because my housekeeping is not the best, but I read somewhere that being a perfectionist can sometimes mean you avoid doing it (whatever task) at all. Being a perfectionist can sometimes be crippling. That rings so true for me! The thing is I look at the kitchen with a few dishes, and things that need to be put away and my first thought is, well, I don't have time to wash everything, wipe everything down, and sweep and mop the floors, so I end up doing nothing rather than something. I was working on it, but have recently let myself fall back into that. Thank you so much for this reminder about being happy with what you have, and it's ok to do a little at a time. Thank you & God bless!!
I loved this message. Thank you Jennifer. My house is fairly old (1900) and is very shabby, not in a chic or charming way, and I absolutely struggle with it. This has just opened up an opportunity to think about it in a new way. Thanks again x
This really speaks to my soul! I love to quilt, and I had a project that I had shelved because it wasn’t going the way I had hoped. I observed a friend of mine who didn’t seem to have the “high standards” that I did, but I noticed she had finished two large quilts. I decided to finish the quilt regardless of how I thought it looked, and it actually turned out fine! ❤️ Another friend of mine commented on the messiness of the house at a get-together we were attending. We were all having such a good time, and I thought that it was fortunate that our hostess didn’t wait for her home to be “perfect” to have a party, because it would never have happened! Thank you for all your wonderful insight! And, you have a lovely home!
Oh Jennifer these videos are a real blessing. I don’t usually like “clean with me” type videos simply because they just talk about the cleaning the whole time and it’s borint. But this is awesome! So encouraging and thought provoking / seeing another woman care for her home is so encouraging to continue to care for mine! Keep these coming !! And seeing your house a mess is nice too 😅 weird as that is to say! Just helps to remember we all have real lives. I consider you a friend - though you don’t me!- I’ve been watching you for years! Maybe one day in the kingdom of our father we can sit down and I’ll share all the ways you impacted me. Thanks friend, From another mama in the trenches ♥️♥️♥️
I lived for 4O years in old but charming townhouse, with a outdated kitchen and bathrooms. But recently - we moved to a luxury new build apartment - I had to say goodbye to my old kitchen and I didn't think about how I would not miss the old-fashioned kitchen decor, but I remembered all the good and tasteful meals I prepared in that kitchen. You are so right!
Thank you for the reminder. I remember as a little girl going to elderly peoples houses. They were very outdated but clean and tidy. You hardly noticed the old refrigerator or the covers on the couch, what I remember is the love and laughter, the delicious food and many happy memories.
I really enjoyed this so much! And yes, I have duct tape on my couch. lol. I think the number one enemy for me has always been having to work outside the home. I would work all day, pick up my kids, and when I got home, my day was always just starting. Supper, dishes, laundry, cleaning, homework, etc. I do think my children suffered having me spread too thin. Gosh those were hard times, as I wanted to really be the perfect person in all that I did. Thank you so much for doing this. It actually helped me let go some of the guilt I still carry. Love to you, Melissa
I loved your comment, Melissa! I can imagine that was so hard but I'm sure so many women can relate to that struggle. I'm very grateful to be able to work from home, but that also comes with its own particular guilt. I think we moms are always guilty! Love you, Jennifer xx
Thank you for these videos. They are such a blessing and inspiration to me, especially as they echo God’s whispers on my heart on how to delight in my role as wife and mother and homemaker. 💕
Excellent point, Jennifer. I spent a small fortune on a sofa, only to have one of my adopted cats use the sofa arms as a scratching post. Rather than throw out a perfectly good sofa, I've chosen to cover it with a slipcover; it's certainly not as elegant as I would like it to be, but I've learned to live with it.
So lovely and true. My husband is a pastor so we were on a limited budget while our 4 children were growing up. Learning to be grateful and creative with what we had kept our home happy and peaceful. And hello from New Zealand.
As I look around my 40 year old kitchen, I appreciate the peeling wallpaper and old appliances for which I am grateful. There is lots of love in this kitchen.
I agree with you so much. We have 7 kids and things get run down. My goal for the summer was to just do what I could do. For example, I can buy new furniture yet but I can make sure the leather is clean and conditioned and the crumbs are vacuumed up. My hardwood floors need to be refinished but again not in the budget. Do I lovingly vacuum and mop then as clean as I can. I could go on. I truly do have a wonderfully home (inheritance from my grandparents) such a blessing not to have a mortgage, to have a large yard for my children and wonderful patio to watch the sunset. I am such a perfectionist but I am practicing thankfulness. Thank you for this video and all of your videos and your books.
This is so true! I continually let tasks (big & small) slide thinking that this probably isn’t my forever home, so why invest the effort, time and/or money?
I just stumbled across your channel and I LOVE what you said about living with what you have rather than getting new stuff to impress (paraphrazing). I am always trying to find the balance and to teach my kids to buy what you need and make do with what is good enough. I live in one of the most expensive areas in NY for property taxes and everyone here tries to impress. Our pool is above ground and not in ground with a waterfall like some. My deck is ugly and old, but safe and functional...and the list goes on. We put so much ressure on ourselves because of the perceived pressure from others around us.
This is one of my favorite videos you've done! I love watching you clean and hearing the calming music and inspirational reminders. I would love to see more of these! Not to mention, the topic of contentment and getting to see the "real" side of your life was very encouraging.
The vinyl is peeling off my sofa and today my husband's back looked like he had twice as many moles when he got up. LOL. I can't afford to replace it so I clean it up every day. I am so grateful for my home and the love in it. Kathy B.
Jennifer, the videos you produce and share with us hit home, it is amazing. I have followed you for 8 years. You inspire me to live a better life, you are wonderful! I do struggle with perfectionism terribly! We moved to another state, a wonderful place to raise a family. However in doing that we left a custom victorian home on the east coast. Now we live in a lovely home but 20 years old and not updated. We are taking our time to update as the budget allows. You are just an inspiration please keep inspiring us! Thank you so much for your hardworking!
Yes. I'm easily discouraged. A rip in my sofa, a snag in the carpet caused by my cat, a stain on the kitchen floor.... I can weather a handful of these now (I used to be pickier) but as years go by in the same house, and kids and grandkids and pets pile up the wear and tear, and age makes the ceiling peel, the linoleum yellow, and the caulking dry up, it gets harder to keep up. These things seem to continue adding up and I just lose my will to keep trying.
You are a light! The Lord keeps sending you my way to share all of these truths. Needed to hear this and as I looked through the comments, it’s evident that I am not the only one. Thank you
As I sat watching your video during commercials for "Le Tour de France," I knew I'd find nothing to relate to about being a perfectionist. July in my household revolves around watching the hours long, bike race, SOMETIMES only once a day, for 3 weeks. Clearly, I can procrastinate! Yet...when you spoke about the desire to have everything in our homes perfect, I knew I'd been caught out. There is a very fine line between perfection and envy, which in my case is very much a "first world problem" since my living situation is excellent. I'd never thought that my wanting things for my house could be a sign of perfection. Even so, without realizing this, I'd already taken a few steps to manage my "wantingness." I now recycle catalogues before entering my house. I'm probably not the only one who doesn't know she needs something until she sees it. I don't window shop. And most importantly, from a community point of view, last month, I suggested to friends that we just have pizza parties and not dinner parties. Others agreed that we literally were not seeing each other as much as we'd like to because we always wanted to plan a perfect party. Perfectionism can actually isolate us from one another which is sad.
OMG!!! You are inside my head!!1 Yes!! Distractions are definitely #1 and perfectionism definitely #2. I was just telling a friend last night who was saying "please don't mind my mess" that I think we (the homemakers) really believe people who come over are going to notice the spec of oil that still resides just at the base of the kitchen cabinet door handle!!! I won't tackle cleaning my kitchen cabinets or my gas range (which is soooo challenging to clean) unless I'm in the mood because it HAS to be perfect and it take FOREVER!!! You are so right, just do it! It doesn't have to look like it did when you first got it!!! Sigh of relief watching this!!!
I think that is what has been hindering me, my home is not perfect at all but when I look at it I have a lack of motivation to clean it, being content with what you have is helping me so much Thank you Jennifer and GOD Bless YOU!!! You are a great inspiration for me!
Darling Jennifer, BLESS YOU for this video and your wonderful wisdom. Virtually everything we own is second-hand from our local auction and market, which means that although none of it is absolutely pristine, we own everything outright and have no debts, credit cards or overdrafts whatsoever. The peace of mind this brings is beyond compare. We bought a beautiful sofa for just twelve pounds but the funny thing is our home is full of “shabby chic” furniture and it’s so cosy, warm and welcoming that we struggle to get rid of our guests. We too love all the decorating magazines and my wife REALLY struggles with her perfectionism. But we put on our pearls (well she does, anyway) and our Cath Kidston aprons, potter, tidy and clean, revelling in having a lovely, peaceful, happy home. It is not honourable or honest to get into debt just to keep up appearances. It also saves us from having a meltdown when something gets spilt or broken, and there is great integrity to loving what you have and being grateful for it. Thank you so much for your honesty. Au res for now xx
This is reality for me. My wooden furniture is mostly scratched and dented my living room sofa looks like something out of 1990. I kept saying to myself "when my daughter grows up I'll replace this or that". Now she's all grown up and in college and we need the money for college. I strive to have the cleanest house around. I have a good friend that is fabulous at everything cooking, cleaning and sewing. The other day we were discussing house cleaning and she said " I can't stand these little cob webs everywhere"! I hate to admit it but it felt good to hear that!
Jennifer, this really resonated with me! My family and I are living an old one room church that we are currently renovating. So often I find myself thinking... “It’s not worth the time and effort to try to make my home beautiful because it’s not finished. There are no kitchen cabinets, the windows aren’t trimmed out, the floors need to be refinished, the bedrooms need carpet, etc.” Therefore, I let my family’s haven all to often be messy and unorganized. And yet, I have everything I need. Your video helped me to look at things differently. Sure my furniture needs replacing ( I have blankets covering my couches too for the same reason as you) but if I can save my husband from the stress of debt by being patient and making what I have work, is that not better? Not many can say they live in a church building over a hundred years old and have a husband who is able and willing to all the work himself. Not only am I able to have a custom kitchen, which we’d never be able to afford otherwise, but there is no worrying about finding a reliable contractor. Our home is our haven. Our resting place whether it’s finished or not. I can do better than I have been. Thank you for sharing your thoughts. I for one have been blessed by them.❤️
You are a gift to all of us and you serve as a reminder for us to be grateful for what we have. I found this so thought provoking watching you work away around your lovely home, thank you, Jennifer.
Thank you Jennifer for a beautiful video! In a world of Pinterest and endless HGTV home makeovers, it’s easy to feel restless if your furniture is worn or outdated. Being creative can find a use for a beautiful pillow or blanket that may otherwise be stuffed in a linen closet.
Just this morning I was considering to convince my husband to take out a home loan to update our kitchen instead of waiting and saving for 2 years. You are so right on time Jennifer! Now I feel much more content with waiting instead of putting ourselves in debt. I think this style or video topic is my favorite of yours. Have a great day.
Try making the most of the kitchen you have now. The reason those model kitchens are so attractive is that they are clean and uncluttered. Pitch all the expired food. Try getting rid of the small appliances and extra pans you aren’t using to create space. Maybe after this invest a small amount in good organization (storing pans and cutting boards vertically can be a game changer). You may find you don’t even need an update. I have exactly 25 inches of counter space on either side of my sink and that’s it. There are only two upper and three lower cupboards including the under-the-sink one. The drawers are original 1930’s and are too tiny to store much and they aren’t even on sliders (they are literally a wood box you push into a bare hole). My hobby is cooking, particularly French food so in this tiny kitchen I make the most elaborate meals you have ever seen (croissants, croquembouche, Coq au vin, roasted lamb, stuffed dates, you name it). The fact is my friends that have large, fancy kitchens don’t make better food than I do. It’s definitely not worth the debt. It may not even be worth it if you have the money.
@@mysticfox1563 Wow! Can I come over for dinner?!!! 🤣 Thank you so much for your tips. Most times I am content but I notice when I see a kitchen remodel video or images I fall into the comparison trap. And you are so right, a newer kitchen isn't going to create a better meal. Have a great day!!
The 17 years I spent as a stay-at-home homemaker were the most satisfying of my life. After my divorce, I had to go to work full-time, and i really robbed me of the time to fully care for my home. I love that you are in the place and space you are!
Oh my goodness! Thank you for this message and video. It’s lovely and encouraging, and it is a timely reminder for me. Even though we don’t know each other I consider you a wonderful mentor Jennifer. Perfectionism and lack of contentment has been something I’ve been thinking a lot about lately. Not just as a personal struggle but as a culture problem and as I guide my kids and strive to model an authentic Christian life. Thanks again.
What a lovely thought and reminder that God wants us to be contented with what he has blessed us with, whether little or much. He knows our needs and we can be thankful for all He has provided, and care for our things and share hospitality even if we don’t have a home that looks like a magazine! I recently had a little disappointment because I thought we were going to remodel our kitchen, but then found out it wasn’t in the budget after all. But I quickly got over that feeling and remembered all the happy beautiful times our family has had in that kitchen, and just felt so grateful to have a sweet home! Thank you Jennifer for being so real and such a wonderful role model for us all. Here are some Bible verses that are so encouraging on this subject! Philippians 4:11-12 ESV Not that I am speaking of being in need, for I have learned in whatever situation I am to be content. I know how to be brought low, and I know how to abound. In any and every circumstance, I have learned the secret of facing plenty and hunger, abundance and need. Hebrews 13:5 ESV Keep your life free from love of money, and be content with what you have, for he has said, “I will never leave you nor forsake you.” 1 Timothy 6:6-11 ESV Now there is great gain in godliness with contentment, for we brought nothing into the world, and we cannot take anything out of the world. But if we have food and clothing, with these we will be content. But those who desire to be rich fall into temptation, into a snare, into many senseless and harmful desires that plunge people into ruin and destruction. For the love of money is a root of all kinds of evils. It is through this craving that some have wandered away from the faith and pierced themselves with many pangs. ... Philippians 4:11 ESV Not that I am speaking of being in need, for I have learned in whatever situation I am to be content. Luke 12:15 ESV And he said to them, “Take care, and be on your guard against all covetousness, for one's life does not consist in the abundance of his possessions.” Psalm 37:3-5 ESV Trust in the Lord, and do good; dwell in the land and befriend faithfulness. Delight yourself in the Lord, and he will give you the desires of your heart. Commit your way to the Lord; trust in him, and he will act. 1 Corinthians 7:17 ESV. Only let each person lead the life that the Lord has assigned to him, and to which God has called him. Matthew 6:25 ESV “Therefore I tell you, do not be anxious about your life, what you will eat or what you will drink, nor about your body, what you will put on. Is not life more than food, and the body more than clothing?
I struggle with this. I am a homemaker and homeschool mom so I expect my house to be clean, organized & smelling great. There are other days that I just sit back & watch my kids laughing, playing & getting along. I admire beautiful things like the 44 year old antique dresser my best friend gave us. It's 2nd hand but so beautiful! I have plans to re-finish it and move it from the youngest room to our daughter's room. These are the days that I feel blessed that we have so much love and joy in our house !
This video is so well executed and a pleasure to watch and such an important message. Every time you look directly into the camera, I feel like my friend is acknowledging me, so adorable. I am practicing 'having enough' and this fits right in. Being content is such a blessing in this materialistic world! Thanks for all of your inspiration Jennifer!
Just the other night I was journaling about how I I've realized that I am simply mediocre at everything I do and in that I included decorating my home and creating a space that I genuinely enjoy. You really hit the nail on the head for me.
Thank you for this message. I have really been enjoying Pinterest the last couple of years. I have noticed recently that I see a lot of the same items, so much so that I know what store they were purchased in! In looking for tips to enhance our homes we can really go overboard with to much stuff! I have started to really miss homes that show individuality. I want people to come in and know who we are, what we’re interested in and that we want them to feel relaxed and welcome. I’m an empty nester now and I still notice myself having to fight off perfectionism to achieve this. I especially appreciate your peacefulness and your desire to be creative with what you have. I have started to do the FlyBaby program to balance myself. It’s helping!! Best to all who desire a home to build memories in with your families. Blessings to you and yours!
I just love your video. I’m a Christian and try so to be content with what I have, but it’s so tempting when you see something on social media of how you would like your home to look. I’ve been working on my home little by little, a little painting one weekend, a little cushion cover on payday, a little table linen when they’re on sale. But most of all I love the feeling of being home, cooking a meal for my family, the smell of coffee brewing, and the quiet sounds of the wind-chimes from outside on a lovely day. Thank you for your eloquent words on our homes and appreciating them. 💖🏠
I love this and needed to hear this! I often look around and notice what is wrong with my home, and do the comparison game. Thank you for being so real! This was so inspirational!
Absolutely beautiful!! Thank you for this message!! Yes.. I’m a homemaker.. and a mom.. and those struggles are real and destructive.. thank you again for sharing this beautiful message!! May God bless you and your family ❤️
I have LOVED these last two videos! The truth is palpable in this video- it is all too easy to go about ones home and pick at all the things that could be better. We get into a mindset of self criticism, desiring worldly things, and the worst- the desire to keep up with the Jones’. We must cultivate contentment, gratitude,peace, and love of our present circumstances. I do this by praying ACTS in the morning; Adoration of The Most High for all the good and and the trials, Contrition for my negative thoughts,words and actions, Thanks for everything! From having clean air to the chirping birds, to a lovely home that is warm and cozy at night, food for the day and all the provisions of yesterday and the faith in the provisions that will come tomorrow. Lastly, is supplication- from all the big things to the tiny things- like i’d really like a new side chair (God is a loving father that wants to hear all of it, big and small!), and I find so much gratitude and healthy perspective on my life when I pray like this, I no longer desire perfection,; I rest deeply in the peace of imperfection.
Simply Charlotte Mason 😍 Jennifer, I love the hole in your sofa. I used to have a quote on my fridge: "Contentment is a kingdom." ❣ This was a wonderful, heartfelt video.
I love this take on how to bask in what we have worked so hard to create. I feel that, all too often, we lose sight of what it took to accomplish what we have (I know I am guilty of this!). When you stop and remember how happy you were when you first brought those sofas into your home, or bought your first set of "matching" silverware - even though they are now no longer perfect they have been "well loved" and brought us great enjoyment over the years. I feel our culture looks at older possessions in much the same way we look at older people - they are something to be replaced instead of cherished. If we stop a moment and focus on all the joy they have brought into our lives, it shifts your perception drastically...all of a sudden they are cherished belongings instead of something you are itching to cast aside.
Oh My, you are wonderful. I just stumbled onto your blog and it is so peaceful and thought-provoking. You place emphasis on the importance of homemaking. Thank you. I am thankful for my home but was reminded of an "ah ha" moment I had long ago when you mentioned to be thankful for the things in your home that are outdated. My husband and I had decided "the next people" who own this home can refinish or paint the solid oak kitchen cabinets !!! How freeing this mindset has been. We enjoy their solid construction even though medium oak is not "trending". An Interior decorator told me "Oak will NEVER (her emphasis) come back in style". Does this really matter?? I say No.
Loved this video!!! It really made me stop and think about how perfectionism and discontentment are the the evil step sisters of gratefulness and contentment. I have struggled with perfectionism and it has certainly gotten me in trouble over the years. Today I am praying to be happy for what we have.
one of my favorite thing about all of your videos is that they are all pushing towards gratitude. The home we want to upgrade, we worked so hard to buy or rent. I am not sure if it is a quote from one of your books or from another video; but you said "try to look at what you have with the same eye and mind set your had when it was acquired"
As always your words are so encouraging especially when it seems at the right time I need to hear them. When we really don’t have enough to get all these new things we can just be grateful for what we do have and maybe rework them in our home or restyle them. When the time is right maybe we will get another thing on the list. You are so humble and I just love your personality how you share with people how they can love themselves and their homes and belongings just the way they are.
So true! I am learning that I am a perfectionist and it is stealing my joy! I’m constantly looking and saving for the next home decor piece I think I need. I’ve noticed my children are following right behind me. So, we are going to have a no spending month in August to get refocused and refreshed. Thank you for sharing your heart. Be blessed!💞
You have read the thoughts that have been running through my mind over the past couple of weeks. I see all of these amazing homes (or just rooms even) on social media and feel my home and its furnishings are just so hopelessly outdated. However, I know I live in a great home! This was a great reminder to appreciate and take care of everything that we are lucky enough to have been blessed with.
Thank you for the deep reflections in your heart. I know they resonate with many stay home moms. I believe CONTENTMENT is the word of the day. I love to keep my home, and have been criticized for being a perfectionist. I think homemaking is a lost art, and I have no shame in saying I have loved being a homemaker, homeschooler, and army wife. For many years putting my family first, almost all have left the nest. So please enjoy each day, and all that you pour your hearts into❤
Jennifer, such wise words. As I sit here with my cup of tea at my 26 year old kitchen table with it’s scratches and wear, I think of all of the family dinners we have shared here, the laughs, the memories and I am content with this less than perfect table! I too struggle with perfectionism, thank you for the reminder!
Wonderful video Jennifer. When you showed the Victoria magazine it reminded me of all the times my mother and I would sit in her little kitchen drinking tea and looking through the Victoria magazines. So happy we had these quiet times together.
I couldn't agree with you more! I had a typical perfectionist, Virgo mother. I once took home an essay that I achieved an A+ on. She read it and said I could have done it better. I was so upset!! It didn't make me stop writing, but years later, I did see that her words made me think more, to do my best. Now, I take my tasks more with the belief of 'progress over perfectionism' as espoused by flylady. This concept was a revelation! It made me realise that I wouldn't start things, unless I knew they could be perfect. It has stopped me from achieving and trying so much! Progress over perfection is the mantra I now live by.
Such good advice, once again, Jennifer. When I was young my mother didn't teach me how to clean or be organised. She suffered from depression and I grew up being very messy and disorganized like she was. However I married someone the exact opposite, lol, so I had to learn fast how to manage the home. I think I've got it pretty much sorted now after 27 years😆, but one major step in the right direction was in making one room look nice, at a time, rather than a little bit all over the house. Not perfection, but as you say ' good enough'.
Really enjoyed this video. My bathrooms are both very early 90’s and I’d cringe whenever I would walk in there. Now I’ll add a few pretty candles or upgrade my towels to enjoy them a bit more. When we can afford it we’ll renovate!
Thank you for that! I needed to hear that said aloud. I know it in my own heart but, as you said, it is drummed into us constantly, that we need to upgrade, update, be in-trend, right now! My living room has remained mostly empty for two years as we wait to renovate. There never seems to be the money to start on it. I will be satisfied to wait another two or three years. We still have other rooms we can sit in and relax. It is a good reminder that on-trend decor is not what makes a house a home.
Oh Jennifer, this was so wonderful! I struggle daily, sometimes hourly with perfectionism. It so hit home when you talked about how it can paralyze us from even attempting something because we are afraid thatt the finished product might turn out flawed. This was such an inspiring video. Thank you so much. It gave me courage to push through my fears of not-good-enough-ism and crack on, as the British say. 😊💕
Hi Jennifer! I struggle so much with perfectionism. I will put something off just because if I feel like I can't do it with excellence. I want things perfect all the time but that's unreachable. Thank you for showing your couch. I have to admit when I see your kitchen I'm like wow she has a beautiful home and everything is perfect but it's nice to see those that you admire have imperfections too! Love your channel and your message!
This video resonates with me so much. As a Christian, I love what the apostle Paul says: “I’ve LEARNED to be content in all circumstances.” It’s such a good reminder that contentment is an ongoing discipline; something we have to learn and work at. Watching videos like this helps encourage me to turn away from comparison/ perfectionism/ “more” and turn to gratitude. Thanks for this!
Oh, Jennifer. Wish I was a writer like you so I could express what blessing this video was to my heart. I was reminded it is a sin to not to be grateful for what we have. We need to find joy in our lives and a big part of that joy is being grateful. I have been blessed with a nice home but sometimes I tend to focus on those things that are not very “chic”. Part of being grateful is to care for our homes and find joy in it. Where did you get so much wisdom as such a young age. So thankful for you and your talents and gifts
Love, love, love! Such a perfect reminder to focus on how much I DO have and not on the things I just desire. The things I do have, lovingly chosen to live with me in my home, bring me happiness. I do not need more THINGS.
I am 70 years old and my life is far from perfect..I lived very differently in a former life (that's what I call it). A fully decorated English blended with French Country styled home. Oh how I loved that home. I strive everyday to bloom where I am planted. Thank you for your inspiration.
New subscriber. I love your voice, your insight and speculation. I work daily outside the house, I go to college at night and I’m also the homemaker. Lots to juggle, I’m also a perfectionist and many times I feel alone even though I have friends, family and coworkers. My home is a mix of new, antiques and used stuff. I’m always surprised when someone comes over and compliments me on my decor. Many imperfections in my dwelling but it’s lived in and cozy. What I’ve found in my lifetime is that we are critical of our homes, however, when someone comes over they’re always comfortable and feel at home. 🌹
I agree, embrace what you have and adjust. We have a lovely plaid sofa and loveseat...a bit worn, so I toss two complimentary quilts over them. I tuck and straighten and we make do. Every time I think of the investment to update the fabric... I freshen up the quilts and spritz my linen room spray and smile.
While I have never thought of myself as a perfectionist, this video made so much sense to me. And it kind of makes me think differently about my home. Thank you Jennifer. Love from Scotland
This is the first video I saw on your channel and I am subscribing right now loved this video and the ones I saw when I checked out your channel. Can’t wait to go watch more.
So true... we are building a new home... probably moving at the end of the year. Sometimes I find myself not wanting to clean this old house because it’s not like the new one. Thank u for the message... Btw... i love your makeup.
Trust me when I say this... as a homemaker, I have everything I WANT and need. God has blessed us so much. I am forever grateful. My home is very neatly and beautifully decorated. But with that said, even if one replaces their furnitures or home decors, you’ll still want more. Until we become content with what we have, we’ll never be happy.
What a great video! I think all of us want to live a life that others admire and get inspired by, but no matter how perfect we want our lives and surroundings to be, life happens and that's actually a wonderful thing. We need to find a ballance between order and chaos in order to be truly happy. I think you are setting a great example - showing that we should be glad for what we have and take care of our home even if there are faults here and there - and I'm very thankful for your honesty.
Beautiful message. I'm one of those who need this reminder often in order to appreciate my present situation and my surroundings. I believe that's the only healthy point from where to start any improvement. So thank you for that!
Just stumbled upon this video and it’s fantastic! Love the deep thought process that this video took me through. I’m not a homemaker but this message can be applied to my daily life. Thanks so much!
Words of wisdom, also I done the same thing with my couch, when we first got our puppy he totally chewed the cushions of my couch, but instead of going out and getting a new couch, I found large throw pillows at the good will, and my couch was saved
So true about social media impacting our happiness. I recently deleted my Instagram app, it was causing me real sadness about my physical self, my parenting skills, my home, my marriage, etc etc etc. I am living with my small apartment and second hand furniture to avoid debt. Thank you for this video! Always working on gratitude ❤️
Loved this video! Contentment is truly an art as we are constantly bombarded by images of people who have more and are doing more. It's really hard to avoid the comparison game. Sometimes I think I should stop watching RUclips or completely avoid FB and Instagram but there is honestly value in social media. I just have to constantly and mindfully keep resetting back to contentment.
This is the best kind of influencing. Brava! I am a great cook living with a small, ordinary kitchen where I keep a large photo of Julia Child as a youngish woman in her first, Paris kitchen, bending over a tiny stove. True inspiration. Hugs.
Hi Jennifer. I love watching you do your housework! It's very motivating and fantastic to see a young woman proudly doing her chores. I think you were very fortunate to have been placed with that chic family. And so are the rest of us actually. Lol. I could sit and listen to stories of the chic family for literally hours.Would it be possible for you to do a video with more of your time with Madame Chic please??? You are so sensible with budgetary living. I wish more young people were this way as they would eliminate some of the unnecessary stress they carry. Thankyou Jennifer. Beverley from Australia. XX
I really enjoyed this video 😊 Today I embraced the imperfection of teaching my 17 year old son how to cook chicken & fried rice (his choice). There was mess everywhere but the look of satisfaction on his face after he had tasted his own cooking was worth it.
In my very early married life and older lady gave me advice I never forgot. Don’t worry about the things you haven’t got, and look after the things you have! I’ve always followed that advice given over 60 years ago.
Jenny Answerth not a homemaker yet but i live by this general rule in my life
That was great advice. Thank you for sharing it with us. I will remember this.🤗
My late mother-in-law was the queen of embracing and caring for what you have no matter its condition or stylishness. Her home was out of date and mismatched, but always warm, cozy and an enjoyable place to be. She kept it clean and very minimal and never complained. I strive to be more like her. Thanks for this reminder today.
This sounds just like my grandmother's house, and it was my favorite place to be on earth when I was a little girl!💕💗💕
Watching this video as a new wife and mother. My husband provides for us so I can stay home to take care of the baby and house. At the beginning of the video I instantly saw your bedroom and thought “wow... look at her nice furniture. I don’t know if we will ever have that.” “Everything is so perfect” and then continuing to watch in awe to see the rip in the couch. Thank you for being so down to earth.
I clean and scrub our home every week, until it’s spotless and clean. We live in a trailer. And even though it’s never going to be in a home magazine I am proud of our home. These walls keep us safe, dry, warm and cozy. Thank you for the reminder to be appreciative. God has provided everything our family needs, what more could I ask for? Thank you for sharing.
Erica Hartley your family is lucky to have you
hopespringseternal70 thank you, your comment made my day. I appreciate it so much
Erica Hartley and your comment made my day. being a good mom and wife and homemaker are THE most important careers on earth. feminism derides these things to break up families and create drones for the machine. equal pay was never the true goal of the official feminist movement, though a worthy aim. i am also a full time mom and wife. hardest and most worthwhile things i have ever done. much love.
Erica Hartley , I have been married for 34 years. Our first home was a mobile home that we lived in for 10 years. We ‘moved up’ 2 more times to larger homes. Now, my husband is getting ready to retire, so we downsized to our last home. Although it’s not a mobile home, it’s close to the same size as our first home. We love it, and the financial peace of no mortgage. I’m learning after all these years that contentment is a gift.
Glenda Lacy Amen.
You know I was just drawn to your Channel ... when I saw the word homemaking.... homemaker.... it just kind of brought tears to my eyes because that is the way women were homemakers an important job ... I just don't think people get that anymore! We made a home for our family... And easy place to fall a place where they're safe ... anyway I just think your video was just lovely! I'm so happy to see a young woman confident in what she's doing and calling herself a homemaker!! Thanks for making my day!
I needed to see this this morning .. Thank you, Jennifer. And praise the Lord for you. Happiness has an old name that most of us forgot - contentment. 🙏 I choose contentment
Yes! Contentment xx
I choose contentment as well. Thank you both. Elina Mason, your comment is so beautiful.
I literally had tears in my eyes at the end of the video. Thank you Jennifer ...your sisterly, no judgmental voice and message touched my heart! Blessings for everyone 🌺🌸🌷
Thank you! xx
Her voice is so soothing. THe perfect voice for these messages.
Blessings to you, as well!🌟🌟
Dear Jennifer, you brought me to tears with this video! I am what I call “average” , I don’t feel like I excel in anything really. But I am content with what I am able to accomplish in my daily life. I take good care of my house, I home cook and try to lead a modest but meaningful life. However, over the years I have been criticized and put down by countless of people because my average-ness.It seems like no matter what I was doing, it wasn’t ever enough and that many times hurt me. I have been always amazed that the people who were so obsessed with perfection, were also the most unhappy. Staying humble and appreciate what we have is such a powerful message and you voiced it beautifully.Thank you!
This perfectionism issue is something that I struggle with daily! Thank you for giving encouragement for those of us that struggle with this imindset
A while back I decided not to go on Facebook anymore. A majority of them share only where they go and the vacations they’ve taken. I am lucky that I get to go to the grocery store. So it just makes me feel like I haven’t done enough in life. The top of our sofa looks like that too because we had a little dog that insist on laying on top of that cushion. She even wore the paint off the wall because her tail would go 100 miles a minute. Thank you for showing us your flaws because not one of us is perfect.
Mel Style I am with you as well.
♡ I understand completely. I'm glad you let your dog be part of the family. That matters too.
my no 1 enemy is wasting time online, social media, youtube, streaming movies... you name it.
@Mel Style -- When you said, "She even wore the paint off the wall because her tail would go 100 miles a minute," that just set me right up for the rest of the day.
julijakeit you know.... I used to cross stitch before I had my first phone.
Two helpful things also: realize that you are already lucky if you have a home that is safe, meets your needs and is affordable--many people
don't have that. And also, if you don't have exactly the things you want right now, keeping them at least clean and organized will still create a cozy home. You can feel a clean home. Thanks for the video!!
Loved this Jennifer. God has blessed me with the gift of hospitality, yet I thought my house had to look or be a certain way for me to exercise it. How many times I could have blessed others but was too concerned about the tear in my sofa or the outdated kitchen. Thanks so much for sharing.
I can so relate to that, Michelle xx
This. So much this.
"How many times I could have blessed others" and showed them love.
Also how many times I could have enjoyed their company (and life in general)
Michelle, bless your heart! People who love you would love to come. People who felt your home didn't measure up have no place in your home anyway. It's lovely either way.
@@catherinechristie4350 a few months ago, I implemented Friendship Friday where we host another family and I quickly found that no one cares if the floors aren't spotless or the shelves dusted. They just want to enjoy a good time.
Good topic Jennifer. I actually think most of the enemies come under one heading - media - social, print,tv etc...
We all need a big reality check. More than 35% of the world's population (2.5 billion people) don't even have access to a toilet. Let's take that figure in for a minute, and the health implications, and the implications for women who don't even have a private place to go to the bathroom. And we are stressed if our decor isn't co-ordinated and upset if we don't have an ensuite.
Media has sold us a huge lie, all in the name of money, and most of us have fallen for it big time. If you get a chance take a look at the Blue Zones videos, particularly those filmed in Ikaria. Their homes look as though they haven't been updated since the 50s. But they know what matters - family, food grown at your doorstep, sunshine, sleep, community, sharing.
You could patch that sofa so that the tear doesn't go any further and wear that patch with pride. It shows you know what matters. Our planet is being absolutely trashed by our greed for newer and better - we've been brain washed.
Let's get back to what matters and be good stewards of the incredible riches we have been blessed with. Looking after the home you have is something to be proud of and grateful for. Anyone who criticises what you have does not deserve your friendship.
Madeleine
Madeleine Lawrence 💯💯💯
Oh wow! I think this might actually be my favorite video. I've been a stay-at-home wife my entire 11 years of marriage and I've never really opened my home to people because I always felt that it wasn't good enough. My husband is a physician we've always lived in a beautiful home and we've always had nice things, but still I felt like it wasn't what people expected given our circumstances, but we also do not live beyond our means and are actively planning for retirement. I really needed to hear this. I never thought of myself as a perfectionist because my housekeeping is not the best, but I read somewhere that being a perfectionist can sometimes mean you avoid doing it (whatever task) at all. Being a perfectionist can sometimes be crippling. That rings so true for me! The thing is I look at the kitchen with a few dishes, and things that need to be put away and my first thought is, well, I don't have time to wash everything, wipe everything down, and sweep and mop the floors, so I end up doing nothing rather than something. I was working on it, but have recently let myself fall back into that. Thank you so much for this reminder about being happy with what you have, and it's ok to do a little at a time. Thank you & God bless!!
I loved this message. Thank you Jennifer. My house is fairly old (1900) and is very shabby, not in a chic or charming way, and I absolutely struggle with it. This has just opened up an opportunity to think about it in a new way. Thanks again x
This really speaks to my soul! I love to quilt, and I had a project that I had shelved because it wasn’t going the way I had hoped. I observed a friend of mine who didn’t seem to have the “high standards” that I did, but I noticed she had finished two large quilts. I decided to finish the quilt regardless of how I thought it looked, and it actually turned out fine! ❤️ Another friend of mine commented on the messiness of the house at a get-together we were attending. We were all having such a good time, and I thought that it was fortunate that our hostess didn’t wait for her home to be “perfect” to have a party, because it would never have happened! Thank you for all your wonderful insight! And, you have a lovely home!
Oh Jennifer these videos are a real blessing. I don’t usually like “clean with me” type videos simply because they just talk about the cleaning the whole time and it’s borint. But this is awesome! So encouraging and thought provoking / seeing another woman care for her home is so encouraging to continue to care for mine! Keep these coming !! And seeing your house a mess is nice too 😅 weird as that is to say! Just helps to remember we all have real lives. I consider you a friend - though you don’t me!- I’ve been watching you for years! Maybe one day in the kingdom of our father we can sit down and I’ll share all the ways you impacted me. Thanks friend,
From another mama in the trenches ♥️♥️♥️
Oh my goodness, I so needed to hear this message. Thank you for presenting it in such a pleasant manor. Eye opening for sure!
Thank you, Linda!
I lived for 4O years in old but charming townhouse, with a outdated kitchen and bathrooms. But recently - we moved to a luxury new build apartment - I had to say goodbye to my old kitchen and I didn't think about how I would not miss the old-fashioned kitchen decor, but I remembered all the good and tasteful meals I prepared in that kitchen. You are so right!
Thank you for the reminder. I remember as a little girl going to elderly peoples houses. They were very outdated but clean and tidy. You hardly noticed the old refrigerator or the covers on the couch, what I remember is the love and laughter, the delicious food and many happy memories.
I really enjoyed this so much! And yes, I have duct tape on my couch. lol. I think the number one enemy for me has always been having to work outside the home. I would work all day, pick up my kids, and when I got home, my day was always just starting. Supper, dishes, laundry, cleaning, homework, etc. I do think my children suffered having me spread too thin. Gosh those were hard times, as I wanted to really be the perfect person in all that I did. Thank you so much for doing this. It actually helped me let go some of the guilt I still carry. Love to you, Melissa
I loved your comment, Melissa! I can imagine that was so hard but I'm sure so many women can relate to that struggle. I'm very grateful to be able to work from home, but that also comes with its own particular guilt. I think we moms are always guilty! Love you, Jennifer xx
Dear, kind woman. Thank you for these words of wisdom. So spot on for the time we live in.
THANK YOU!!!
Thank you for these videos. They are such a blessing and inspiration to me, especially as they echo God’s whispers on my heart on how to delight in my role as wife and mother and homemaker. 💕
Thank you, Dara! xx
Amen and amen!!
Excellent point, Jennifer. I spent a small fortune on a sofa, only to have one of my adopted cats use the sofa arms as a scratching post. Rather than throw out a perfectly good sofa, I've chosen to cover it with a slipcover; it's certainly not as elegant as I would like it to be, but I've learned to live with it.
So lovely and true. My husband is a pastor so we were on a limited budget while our 4 children were growing up. Learning to be grateful and creative with what we had kept our home happy and peaceful. And hello from New Zealand.
As I look around my 40 year old kitchen, I appreciate the peeling wallpaper and old appliances for which I am grateful. There is lots of love in this kitchen.
I agree with you so much. We have 7 kids and things get run down. My goal for the summer was to just do what I could do. For example, I can buy new furniture yet but I can make sure the leather is clean and conditioned and the crumbs are vacuumed up. My hardwood floors need to be refinished but again not in the budget. Do I lovingly vacuum and mop then as clean as I can. I could go on. I truly do have a wonderfully home (inheritance from my grandparents) such a blessing not to have a mortgage, to have a large yard for my children and wonderful patio to watch the sunset. I am such a perfectionist but I am practicing thankfulness. Thank you for this video and all of your videos and your books.
This is so true! I continually let tasks (big & small) slide thinking that this probably isn’t my forever home, so why invest the effort, time and/or money?
I just stumbled across your channel and I LOVE what you said about living with what you have rather than getting new stuff to impress (paraphrazing). I am always trying to find the balance and to teach my kids to buy what you need and make do with what is good enough. I live in one of the most expensive areas in NY for property taxes and everyone here tries to impress. Our pool is above ground and not in ground with a waterfall like some. My deck is ugly and old, but safe and functional...and the list goes on. We put so much ressure on ourselves because of the perceived pressure from others around us.
This is one of my favorite videos you've done! I love watching you clean and hearing the calming music and inspirational reminders. I would love to see more of these! Not to mention, the topic of contentment and getting to see the "real" side of your life was very encouraging.
The vinyl is peeling off my sofa and today my husband's back looked like he had twice as many moles when he got up. LOL.
I can't afford to replace it so I clean it up every day. I am so grateful for my home and the love in it.
Kathy B.
Jennifer, the videos you produce and share with us hit home, it is amazing. I have followed you for 8 years. You inspire me to live a better life, you are wonderful! I do struggle with perfectionism terribly! We moved to another state, a wonderful place to raise a family. However in doing that we left a custom victorian home on the east coast. Now we live in a lovely home but 20 years old and not updated. We are taking our time to update as the budget allows. You are just an inspiration please keep inspiring us! Thank you so much for your hardworking!
Yes. I'm easily discouraged. A rip in my sofa, a snag in the carpet caused by my cat, a stain on the kitchen floor.... I can weather a handful of these now (I used to be pickier) but as years go by in the same house, and kids and grandkids and pets pile up the wear and tear, and age makes the ceiling peel, the linoleum yellow, and the caulking dry up, it gets harder to keep up. These things seem to continue adding up and I just lose my will to keep trying.
You are a light! The Lord keeps sending you my way to share all of these truths. Needed to hear this and as I looked through the comments, it’s evident that I am not the only one. Thank you
As I sat watching your video during commercials for "Le Tour de France," I knew I'd find nothing to relate to about being a perfectionist. July in my household revolves around watching the hours long, bike race, SOMETIMES only once a day, for 3 weeks. Clearly, I can procrastinate! Yet...when you spoke about the desire to have everything in our homes perfect, I knew I'd been caught out. There is a very fine line between perfection and envy, which in my case is very much a "first world problem" since my living situation is excellent. I'd never thought that my wanting things for my house could be a sign of perfection. Even so, without realizing this, I'd already taken a few steps to manage my "wantingness." I now recycle catalogues before entering my house. I'm probably not the only one who doesn't know she needs something until she sees it. I don't window shop. And most importantly, from a community point of view, last month, I suggested to friends that we just have pizza parties and not dinner parties. Others agreed that we literally were not seeing each other as much as we'd like to because we always wanted to plan a perfect party. Perfectionism can actually isolate us from one another which is sad.
OMG!!! You are inside my head!!1 Yes!! Distractions are definitely #1 and perfectionism definitely #2. I was just telling a friend last night who was saying "please don't mind my mess" that I think we (the homemakers) really believe people who come over are going to notice the spec of oil that still resides just at the base of the kitchen cabinet door handle!!! I won't tackle cleaning my kitchen cabinets or my gas range (which is soooo challenging to clean) unless I'm in the mood because it HAS to be perfect and it take FOREVER!!! You are so right, just do it! It doesn't have to look like it did when you first got it!!! Sigh of relief watching this!!!
Thank you xx
I think that is what has been hindering me, my home is not perfect at all but when I look at it I have a lack of motivation to clean it, being content with what you have is helping me so much Thank you Jennifer and GOD Bless YOU!!! You are a great inspiration for me!
Darling Jennifer,
BLESS YOU for this video and your wonderful wisdom. Virtually everything we own is second-hand from our local auction and market, which means that although none of it is absolutely pristine, we own everything outright and have no debts, credit cards or overdrafts whatsoever. The peace of mind this brings is beyond compare.
We bought a beautiful sofa for just twelve pounds but the funny thing is our home is full of “shabby chic” furniture and it’s so cosy, warm and welcoming that we struggle to get rid of our guests. We too love all the decorating magazines and my wife REALLY struggles with her perfectionism. But we put on our pearls (well she does, anyway) and our Cath Kidston aprons, potter, tidy and clean, revelling in having a lovely, peaceful, happy home. It is not honourable or honest to get into debt just to keep up appearances. It also saves us from having a meltdown when something gets spilt or broken, and there is great integrity to loving what you have and being grateful for it. Thank you so much for your honesty.
Au res for now xx
This is reality for me. My wooden furniture is mostly scratched and dented my living room sofa looks like something out of 1990. I kept saying to myself "when my daughter grows up I'll replace this or that". Now she's all grown up and in college and we need the money for college. I strive to have the cleanest house around. I have a good friend that is fabulous at everything cooking, cleaning and sewing. The other day we were discussing house cleaning and she said " I can't stand these little cob webs everywhere"! I hate to admit it but it felt good to hear that!
Jennifer, this really resonated with me! My family and I are living an old one room church that we are currently renovating. So often I find myself thinking... “It’s not worth the time and effort to try to make my home beautiful because it’s not finished. There are no kitchen cabinets, the windows aren’t trimmed out, the floors need to be refinished, the bedrooms need carpet, etc.” Therefore, I let my family’s haven all to often be messy and unorganized. And yet, I have everything I need. Your video helped me to look at things differently. Sure my furniture needs replacing ( I have blankets covering my couches too for the same reason as you) but if I can save my husband from the stress of debt by being patient and making what I have work, is that not better? Not many can say they live in a church building over a hundred years old and have a husband who is able and willing to all the work himself. Not only am I able to have a custom kitchen, which we’d never be able to afford otherwise, but there is no worrying about finding a reliable contractor.
Our home is our haven. Our resting place whether it’s finished or not. I can do better than I have been. Thank you for sharing your thoughts. I for one have been blessed by them.❤️
Thank you Jennifer! You always know how to inspire me by shifting my focus towards the things that really matter! 💛🤗💛
Thank you so much, Robin! xx
You are a gift to all of us and you serve as a reminder for us to be grateful for what we have. I found this so thought provoking watching you work away around your lovely home, thank you, Jennifer.
I’m not sure why, but I found this to be one of your best videos! It was incredibly meditative.
Thank you for watching! xx
My first time at this site. Found it all mesmerizing and wise.
Thank you Jennifer for a beautiful video! In a world of Pinterest and endless HGTV home makeovers, it’s easy to feel restless if your furniture is worn or outdated. Being creative can find a use for a beautiful pillow or blanket that may otherwise be stuffed in a linen closet.
Just this morning I was considering to convince my husband to take out a home loan to update our kitchen instead of waiting and saving for 2 years. You are so right on time Jennifer! Now I feel much more content with waiting instead of putting ourselves in debt. I think this style or video topic is my favorite of yours. Have a great day.
I was thinking this may be my favorite type too.
Try making the most of the kitchen you have now. The reason those model kitchens are so attractive is that they are clean and uncluttered. Pitch all the expired food. Try getting rid of the small appliances and extra pans you aren’t using to create space. Maybe after this invest a small amount in good organization (storing pans and cutting boards vertically can be a game changer). You may find you don’t even need an update.
I have exactly 25 inches of counter space on either side of my sink and that’s it. There are only two upper and three lower cupboards including the under-the-sink one. The drawers are original 1930’s and are too tiny to store much and they aren’t even on sliders (they are literally a wood box you push into a bare hole). My hobby is cooking, particularly French food so in this tiny kitchen I make the most elaborate meals you have ever seen (croissants, croquembouche, Coq au vin, roasted lamb, stuffed dates, you name it). The fact is my friends that have large, fancy kitchens don’t make better food than I do. It’s definitely not worth the debt. It may not even be worth it if you have the money.
@@mysticfox1563 Wow! Can I come over for dinner?!!! 🤣 Thank you so much for your tips. Most times I am content but I notice when I see a kitchen remodel video or images I fall into the comparison trap. And you are so right, a newer kitchen isn't going to create a better meal. Have a great day!!
The 17 years I spent as a stay-at-home homemaker were the most satisfying of my life. After my divorce, I had to go to work full-time, and i really robbed me of the time to fully care for my home. I love that you are in the place and space you are!
I'm so enjoying these reminders of how to love my home and the blessed life i have of being a wife, mother, and homeowner!❤
Thank you for showing the realness of life! No need to be perfect, just enjoy what's here now.
Oh my goodness! Thank you for this message and video. It’s lovely and encouraging, and it is a timely reminder for me. Even though we don’t know each other I consider you a wonderful mentor Jennifer. Perfectionism and lack of contentment has been something I’ve been thinking a lot about lately. Not just as a personal struggle but as a culture problem and as I guide my kids and strive to model an authentic Christian life. Thanks again.
What a lovely thought and reminder that God wants us to be contented with what he has blessed us with, whether little or much. He knows our needs and we can be thankful for all He has provided, and care for our things and share hospitality even if we don’t have a home that looks like a magazine! I recently had a little disappointment because I thought we were going to remodel our kitchen, but then found out it wasn’t in the budget after all. But I quickly got over that feeling and remembered all the happy beautiful times our family has had in that kitchen, and just felt so grateful to have a sweet home! Thank you Jennifer for being so real and such a wonderful role model for us all. Here are some Bible verses that are so encouraging on this subject!
Philippians 4:11-12 ESV Not that I am speaking of being in need, for I have learned in whatever situation I am to be content. I know how to be brought low, and I know how to abound. In any and every circumstance, I have learned the secret of facing plenty and hunger, abundance and need.
Hebrews 13:5 ESV Keep your life free from love of money, and be content with what you have, for he has said, “I will never leave you nor forsake you.”
1 Timothy 6:6-11 ESV Now there is great gain in godliness with contentment, for we brought nothing into the world, and we cannot take anything out of the world. But if we have food and clothing, with these we will be content. But those who desire to be rich fall into temptation, into a snare, into many senseless and harmful desires that plunge people into ruin and destruction. For the love of money is a root of all kinds of evils. It is through this craving that some have wandered away from the faith and pierced themselves with many pangs. ...
Philippians 4:11 ESV Not that I am speaking of being in need, for I have learned in whatever situation I am to be content.
Luke 12:15 ESV And he said to them, “Take care, and be on your guard against all covetousness, for one's life does not consist in the abundance of his possessions.”
Psalm 37:3-5 ESV Trust in the Lord, and do good; dwell in the land and befriend faithfulness. Delight yourself in the Lord, and he will give you the desires of your heart. Commit your way to the Lord; trust in him, and he will act.
1 Corinthians 7:17 ESV. Only let each person lead the life that the Lord has assigned to him, and to which God has called him.
Matthew 6:25 ESV “Therefore I tell you, do not be anxious about your life, what you will eat or what you will drink, nor about your body, what you will put on. Is not life more than food, and the body more than clothing?
So needed this . Not enough hours of sleep last night, but with a busy weekend ahead , family coming and a birthday ...time to pick up the home
I struggle with this. I am a homemaker and homeschool mom so I expect my house to be clean, organized & smelling great. There are other days that I just sit back & watch my kids laughing, playing & getting along. I admire beautiful things like the 44 year old antique dresser my best friend gave us. It's 2nd hand but so beautiful! I have plans to re-finish it and move it from the youngest room to our daughter's room. These are the days that I feel blessed that we have so much love and joy in our house !
This video is so well executed and a pleasure to watch and such an important message. Every time you look directly into the camera, I feel like my friend is acknowledging me, so adorable. I am practicing 'having enough' and this fits right in. Being content is such a blessing in this materialistic world! Thanks for all of your inspiration Jennifer!
Just the other night I was journaling about how I I've realized that I am simply mediocre at everything I do and in that I included decorating my home and creating a space that I genuinely enjoy. You really hit the nail on the head for me.
Thank you for this message. I have really been enjoying Pinterest the last couple of years. I have noticed recently that I see a lot of the same items, so much so that I know what store they were purchased in! In looking for tips to enhance our homes we can really go overboard with to much stuff! I have started to really miss homes that show individuality. I want people to come in and know who we are, what we’re interested in and that we want them to feel relaxed and welcome. I’m an empty nester now and I still notice myself having to fight off perfectionism to achieve this. I especially appreciate your peacefulness and your desire to be creative with what you have. I have started to do the FlyBaby program to balance myself. It’s helping!! Best to all who desire a home to build memories in with your families. Blessings to you and yours!
I just love your video. I’m a Christian and try so to be content with what I have, but it’s so tempting when you see something on social media of how you would like your home to look. I’ve been working on my home little by little, a little painting one weekend, a little cushion cover on payday, a little table linen when they’re on sale. But most of all I love the feeling of being home, cooking a meal for my family, the smell of coffee brewing, and the quiet sounds of the wind-chimes from outside on a lovely day. Thank you for your eloquent words on our homes and appreciating them. 💖🏠
I love this and needed to hear this! I often look around and notice what is wrong with my home, and do the comparison game. Thank you for being so real! This was so inspirational!
Absolutely beautiful!! Thank you for this message!! Yes.. I’m a homemaker.. and a mom.. and those struggles are real and destructive.. thank you again for sharing this beautiful message!! May God bless you and your family ❤️
This message is so spot on. So glad to hear I'm not the only one who suffers from these issues. Thank you for putting it into words so perfectly.
I have LOVED these last two videos! The truth is palpable in this video- it is all too easy to go about ones home and pick at all the things that could be better. We get into a mindset of self criticism, desiring worldly things, and the worst- the desire to keep up with the Jones’. We must cultivate contentment, gratitude,peace, and love of our present circumstances. I do this by praying ACTS in the morning; Adoration of The Most High for all the good and and the trials, Contrition for my negative thoughts,words and actions, Thanks for everything! From having clean air to the chirping birds, to a lovely home that is warm and cozy at night, food for the day and all the provisions of yesterday and the faith in the provisions that will come tomorrow. Lastly, is supplication- from all the big things to the tiny things- like i’d really like a new side chair (God is a loving father that wants to hear all of it, big and small!), and I find so much gratitude and healthy perspective on my life when I pray like this, I no longer desire perfection,; I rest deeply in the peace of imperfection.
Simply Charlotte Mason 😍
Jennifer, I love the hole in your sofa. I used to have a quote on my fridge: "Contentment is a kingdom." ❣ This was a wonderful, heartfelt video.
I love this take on how to bask in what we have worked so hard to create. I feel that, all too often, we lose sight of what it took to accomplish what we have (I know I am guilty of this!). When you stop and remember how happy you were when you first brought those sofas into your home, or bought your first set of "matching" silverware - even though they are now no longer perfect they have been "well loved" and brought us great enjoyment over the years. I feel our culture looks at older possessions in much the same way we look at older people - they are something to be replaced instead of cherished. If we stop a moment and focus on all the joy they have brought into our lives, it shifts your perception drastically...all of a sudden they are cherished belongings instead of something you are itching to cast aside.
Oh My, you are wonderful. I just stumbled onto your blog and it is so peaceful and thought-provoking. You place emphasis on the importance of homemaking. Thank you. I am thankful for my home but was reminded of an "ah ha" moment I had long ago when you mentioned to be thankful for the things in your home that are outdated. My husband and I had decided "the next people" who own this home can refinish or paint the solid oak kitchen cabinets !!! How freeing this mindset has been. We enjoy their solid construction even though medium oak is not "trending". An Interior decorator told me "Oak will NEVER (her emphasis) come back in style". Does this really matter?? I say No.
Loved this video!!! It really made me stop and think about how perfectionism and discontentment are the the evil step sisters of gratefulness and contentment. I have struggled with perfectionism and it has certainly gotten me in trouble over the years. Today I am praying to be happy for what we have.
one of my favorite thing about all of your videos is that they are all pushing towards gratitude. The home we want to upgrade, we worked so hard to buy or rent. I am not sure if it is a quote from one of your books or from another video; but you said "try to look at what you have with the same eye and mind set your had when it was acquired"
As always your words are so encouraging especially when it seems at the right time I need to hear them. When we really don’t have enough to get all these new things we can just be grateful for what we do have and maybe rework them in our home or restyle them. When the time is right maybe we will get another thing on the list. You are so humble and I just love your personality how you share with people how they can love themselves and their homes and belongings just the way they are.
So true! I am learning that I am a perfectionist and it is stealing my joy! I’m constantly looking and saving for the next home decor piece I think I need. I’ve noticed my children are following right behind me. So, we are going to have a no spending month in August to get refocused and refreshed. Thank you for sharing your heart. Be blessed!💞
Good luck, keep those purse strings tight 😁
You have read the thoughts that have been running through my mind over the past couple of weeks. I see all of these amazing homes (or just rooms even) on social media and feel my home and its furnishings are just so hopelessly outdated. However, I know I live in a great home! This was a great reminder to appreciate and take care of everything that we are lucky enough to have been blessed with.
Thank you for the deep reflections in your heart. I know they resonate with many stay home moms.
I believe CONTENTMENT is the word of the day. I love to keep my home, and have been criticized for being a perfectionist. I think homemaking is a lost art, and I have no shame in saying I have loved being a homemaker, homeschooler, and army wife. For many years putting my family first, almost all have left the nest. So please enjoy each day, and all that you pour your hearts into❤
Jennifer, such wise words. As I sit here with my cup of tea at my 26 year old kitchen table
with it’s scratches and wear, I think of all of the family dinners we have shared here, the laughs, the memories and I am content with this less than perfect table! I too struggle with perfectionism, thank you for the reminder!
Wonderful video Jennifer. When you showed the Victoria magazine it reminded me of all the times my mother and I would sit in her little kitchen drinking tea and looking through the Victoria magazines. So happy we had these quiet times together.
I couldn't agree with you more! I had a typical perfectionist, Virgo mother. I once took home an essay that I achieved an A+ on. She read it and said I could have done it better. I was so upset!! It didn't make me stop writing, but years later, I did see that her words made me think more, to do my best. Now, I take my tasks more with the belief of 'progress over perfectionism' as espoused by flylady. This concept was a revelation! It made me realise that I wouldn't start things, unless I knew they could be perfect. It has stopped me from achieving and trying so much! Progress over perfection is the mantra I now live by.
Such good advice, once again, Jennifer. When I was young my mother didn't teach me how to clean or be organised. She suffered from depression and I grew up being very messy and disorganized like she was. However I married someone the exact opposite, lol, so I had to learn fast how to manage the home. I think I've got it pretty much sorted now after 27 years😆, but one major step in the right direction was in making one room look nice, at a time, rather than a little bit all over the house. Not perfection, but as you say ' good enough'.
Really enjoyed this video. My bathrooms are both very early 90’s and I’d cringe whenever I would walk in there. Now I’ll add a few pretty candles or upgrade my towels to enjoy them a bit more. When we can afford it we’ll renovate!
Thank you for that! I needed to hear that said aloud. I know it in my own heart but, as you said, it is drummed into us constantly, that we need to upgrade, update, be in-trend, right now! My living room has remained mostly empty for two years as we wait to renovate. There never seems to be the money to start on it. I will be satisfied to wait another two or three years. We still have other rooms we can sit in and relax. It is a good reminder that on-trend decor is not what makes a house a home.
Oh Jennifer, this was so wonderful! I struggle daily, sometimes hourly with perfectionism. It so hit home when you talked about how it can paralyze us from even attempting something because we are afraid thatt the finished product might turn out flawed. This was such an inspiring video. Thank you so much. It gave me courage to push through my fears of not-good-enough-ism and crack on, as the British say. 😊💕
Hi Jennifer! I struggle so much with perfectionism. I will put something off just because if I feel like I can't do it with excellence. I want things perfect all the time but that's unreachable. Thank you for showing your couch. I have to admit when I see your kitchen I'm like wow she has a beautiful home and everything is perfect but it's nice to see those that you admire have imperfections too! Love your channel and your message!
I guessed perfectionism before you said it!! You cane right down my street!! Thank you for being real. Such a relief and much appreciated!
Oops...came down my street!And there I go, being a perfectionist again...☺️
This is such a lovely reminder for me today! This summer has been filled company, which I love, but sometimes fret that everything is not "perfect".
This video resonates with me so much. As a Christian, I love what the apostle Paul says: “I’ve LEARNED to be content in all circumstances.” It’s such a good reminder that contentment is an ongoing discipline; something we have to learn and work at. Watching videos like this helps encourage me to turn away from comparison/ perfectionism/ “more” and turn to gratitude. Thanks for this!
Oh, Jennifer. Wish I was a writer like you so I could express what blessing this video was to my heart. I was reminded it is a sin to not to be grateful for what we have. We need to find joy in our lives and a big part of that joy is being grateful. I have been blessed with a nice home but sometimes I tend to focus on those things that are not very “chic”. Part of being grateful is to care for our homes and find joy in it. Where did you get so much wisdom as such a young age. So thankful for you and your talents and gifts
Love, love, love! Such a perfect reminder to focus on how much I DO have and not on the things I just desire. The things I do have, lovingly chosen to live with me in my home, bring me happiness. I do not need more THINGS.
I am 70 years old and my life is far from perfect..I lived very differently in a former life (that's what I call it). A fully decorated English blended with French Country styled home. Oh how I loved that home. I strive everyday to bloom where I am planted. Thank you for your inspiration.
“I strive everyday to bloom where I am planted” that was so beautiful! Thank you for sharing such a lovely sentence!
Thank you for this x
New subscriber. I love your voice, your insight and speculation. I work daily outside the house, I go to college at night and I’m also the homemaker. Lots to juggle, I’m also a perfectionist and many times I feel alone even though I have friends, family and coworkers. My home is a mix of new, antiques and used stuff. I’m always surprised when someone comes over and compliments me on my decor. Many imperfections in my dwelling but it’s lived in and cozy. What I’ve found in my lifetime is that we are critical of our homes, however, when someone comes over they’re always comfortable and feel at home. 🌹
I agree, embrace what you have and adjust. We have a lovely plaid sofa and loveseat...a bit worn, so I toss two complimentary quilts over them. I tuck and straighten and we make do. Every time I think of the investment to update the fabric... I freshen up the quilts and spritz my linen room spray and smile.
I just learned a new way to fold large towels. Thanks!!!
While I have never thought of myself as a perfectionist, this video made so much sense to me. And it kind of makes me think differently about my home. Thank you Jennifer. Love from Scotland
This is the first video I saw on your channel and I am subscribing right now loved this video and the ones I saw when I checked out your channel. Can’t wait to go watch more.
So true... we are building a new home... probably moving at the end of the year. Sometimes I find myself not wanting to clean this old house because it’s not like the new one. Thank u for the message... Btw... i love your makeup.
Trust me when I say this...
as a homemaker, I have everything I WANT and need. God has blessed us so much. I am forever grateful. My home is very neatly and beautifully decorated.
But with that said, even if one replaces their furnitures or home decors, you’ll still want more. Until we become content with what we have, we’ll never be happy.
What a great video! I think all of us want to live a life that others admire and get inspired by, but no matter how perfect we want our lives and surroundings to be, life happens and that's actually a wonderful thing. We need to find a ballance between order and chaos in order to be truly happy.
I think you are setting a great example - showing that we should be glad for what we have and take care of our home even if there are faults here and there - and I'm very thankful for your honesty.
Beautiful message. I'm one of those who need this reminder often in order to appreciate my present situation and my surroundings. I believe that's the only healthy point from where to start any improvement. So thank you for that!
Just stumbled upon this video and it’s fantastic! Love the deep thought process that this video took me through. I’m not a homemaker but this message can be applied to my daily life. Thanks so much!
Words of wisdom, also I done the same thing with my couch, when we first got our puppy he totally chewed the cushions of my couch, but instead of going out and getting a new couch, I found large throw pillows at the good will, and my couch was saved
So true about social media impacting our happiness. I recently deleted my Instagram app, it was causing me real sadness about my physical self, my parenting skills, my home, my marriage, etc etc etc. I am living with my small apartment and second hand furniture to avoid debt. Thank you for this video! Always working on gratitude ❤️
Loved this video! Contentment is truly an art as we are constantly bombarded by images of people who have more and are doing more. It's really hard to avoid the comparison game. Sometimes I think I should stop watching RUclips or completely avoid FB and Instagram but there is honestly value in social media. I just have to constantly and mindfully keep resetting back to contentment.
This is the best kind of influencing. Brava! I am a great cook living with a small, ordinary kitchen where I keep a large photo of Julia Child as a youngish woman in her first, Paris kitchen, bending over a tiny stove. True inspiration. Hugs.
Thank you for showing the hole! A picture speaks louder then words! It’s so easy to have FOMO and glaze over reality!
Hi Jennifer. I love watching you do your housework! It's very motivating and fantastic to see a young woman proudly doing her chores. I think you were very fortunate to have been placed with that chic family. And so are the rest of us actually. Lol. I could sit and listen to stories of the chic family for literally hours.Would it be possible for you to do a video with more of your time with Madame Chic please???
You are so sensible with budgetary living. I wish more young people were this way as they would eliminate some of the unnecessary stress they carry.
Thankyou Jennifer. Beverley from Australia. XX
I really enjoyed this video 😊 Today I embraced the imperfection of teaching my 17 year old son how to cook chicken & fried rice (his choice). There was mess everywhere but the look of satisfaction on his face after he had tasted his own cooking was worth it.