Why I Was Baking on a Hot Day 😢

Published: Sat, 06/12/21

It's been a rough week.

I don't know what we'd do without our bonus kids. God changed our lives and brought so much goodness to us when He started moving them in.

But this week has been a doozie for them, and therefore, for me. The poor dears. There are a lot of trauma triggers for them, causing them to act out or to be extra emotional. I've felt like I haven't been able to catch a break, going from one kids' needs/naughtiness to the next after an extra-difficult Wednesday experience they had. Oh, and then the fevers started. So they got sick on top of it. (Did I mention that Matt is out of town for a few days?!)

Everyone seems to be on the mend physically today. But emotionally, we were still struggling. For some reason, God led me into the kitchen as a way to cope.

I mean, we all know that cooking and baking is therapy for me. So maybe that's why I instinctively got out the butter and baking pans even though it's a hot day. But then something beautiful happened. I called the kids in to wash hands and help me. The measuring, the egg cracking, the stirring, the spilling (ha) - somehow it was like a reset button got pushed.

Attitudes chilled. Bodies calmed. Dispositions settled.

We all know that calling in the little people to help us bake can sometimes be more stressful than easy. But today it was just what we all needed. Who cares that we had the air conditioner on right along with the oven? This activity brought my babies peace. It brought them back to their secure place. It reminded them that we are all in this together. We are all breathing again.

As an added bonus, we now have Banana Muffins to snack on. And Pumpkin Bread. And Brownies (these are actually for company).

God is good. He is faithful. He is provider. He is healer. I'm so thankful for His goodness during our baking experience this morning.

Homemade Vanilla is where it's at!

While we were baking, I was admiring our vanilla (which I don't let my kids touch because I don't want it to get spilled!). It made me think about how we should all get a batch going right now so it'll be ready in time for Christmas.

This is extra exciting now that vanilla bean prices have gone down so much!! You'll be able to make vanilla, which makes SUPER NICE gifts, but doesn't cost too much. It's perfect!

How to Make Vanilla in Time for Christmas

Need some baking therapy?

You might think I'm crazy (and you are correct). But just in case you and your family need to bake as a way to bring you back to a place of peace, here's a huge recipe list to look through together:

What should we bake?

Or, if you want to do something in the kitchen that doesn't involve the oven:

May your family time be blessed, and may we all remember that God is our all in all.

Laura @ HeavenlyHomemakers.com