So, I mentioned that your kind words and enthusiasm for my everyday life posts have pretty much blown me away.
I’ve been having so much fun getting back to my roots as a blogger and just sharing from my heart and sharing the daily life stuff that happens around here.
As I plan out posts for the coming weeks and months, I’d LOVE to hear your input on what types of posts you’d most enjoy reading.
If you have a minute, could you do me a favor and leave a comment letting me know what you’d like me to write about.
Just something simple like: “Crystal, I’d love to see you write on ______” or “Crystal, I wish you’d share about _____” or “Crystal, I’d love to see a post or series on ______.” You fill in the blanks!
The floor is all yours! Ready, set, GO…
{And thank you for your input! You all mean the world to me!}
Julie says
Hi Crystal, I would love to know more about your minimalist-ish storage solutions, especially when it comes to your children’s toys. I’ve noticed that when you clean out your kids’ closets, there aren’t any toys in them, and I’d love to know more about that!
We have four kids, all of whom share a room aside from the baby, who sleeps in the living room. We don’t have a basement, play room, or similar spot for storing toys, and it shows in the way the toys have taken over.
My best efforts to corral, arrange, and sort what toys we keep are falling short. We try to pass on toys that we’re not currently enjoying, but I would like to know what works best for your family to see if there are some ideas that we could incorporate in our home. Thanks!
Anna says
Crystal,
It was fun to hear about your recent move because we are also in the process of moving this summer, and I’d love to hear about how you saved money in your move. There are so many options with moving, but it can all be so expensive too! What worked well for you? I’d love to hear ways of being efficient with our time, making sure our things are safe, but still being able to save money. Thanks!
Marion says
I love that you are back to your blogging roots. I have been reading you since before MSM. I truly have enjoyed all your personally post since you moved to Nashville. What I would love to see you write about are details about your health goals. Like what kind of big salad do you eat every day. I am a bit sick of salad! And drinking water has gotten a bit boring. What do you do too spicy it up a bit??
Also I wanted to thank you. B/c of MSM we discovered Dave Ramsey and a cash budget. Our lives are changed but more importantly we changed our children’s legacy.
beth says
I love all of the peeks into your life. It’s awesome to see favorite bloggers as “real” people. I would love more posts about parenting your kids (since I have 2 kids under 4 and am always looking for inspiration). The things that you have found hardest while parenting and your favorite things about different ages. Also, any updates on your favorite small splurges. I find that it can be small fun things (like a nice candle) that add much to my days. Love your blog!
jenna says
I’ve been trying to read most of the comments to see if I’d overlap in my opinion (and forgive my late-ness in replying, but life happens.) I see a lot of people say they would like more info on homeschooling. I would not. I would immediately skip those posts because it does not pertain to my children and me. I don’t want to hear about curriculums or conventions, unless they really are money saving. As an educator, if you presented it as “educational things I do with my children at home”, I’d be more apt to read it. Yes, po-tay-toh, po-tah-toh. I loved when you posted those crafts you did with your kids – giant bubbles and unicorns pooping rainbows.. maybe not the last one but..
Also – I’d love to know about the things that challenge you. I know you say that you don’t have everything together, you have a great team working for you, and that you are definitely not supermom.. but it still seems like you don’t struggle at all. I’m not talking about a fear of public speaking that you were able to overcome (and good for you!) .. I’m talking about real life.. how are you a human being and not a machine?
Also with your morning routine, do you have a night time routine? Might be helpful for some of us night owls who get all that you do in the morning done while the kids are asleep at night.
Thanks for listening.
Abra says
Keep writing about what you know and how you make it work in day-to-day life. That is definitely why I love your blog so much! I would have never tried freezer cooking if you didn’t help me see how it can work. I also learned a lot through your “21 Days to a More Disciplined Life” eBook.
I’d enjoy seeing the “Ask Jesse” column return, even if it is only monthly.
I could use more help being ready for company, especially on short notice. I know this is one of the advantages to freezer cooking, but share ideas to help us apply it in real life.
This may be good material for some guest posts, but I would love to hear from someone with more of a rural living perspective. Sometimes, I find that blogs are so centered around being right there in a city (which is understandable, most readers probably live in an urban environment). It can get discouraging to live so far away from all the stores and still try to make frugal living work. Also, if you or anyone has experience selling through a pawn shop, it would be interesting to know more about how that works.
Thanks for all that you share! It has definitely helped me.
Jenny says
Hi Crystal! It took me awhile to think of something I’m curious about that I haven’t seen you cover: Budget fun/blow money. I’m still learning to manage mine. I’m wondering how much thought you put into yours. Are they impulse purchases or planned out? I’d love to be a snoop and get a peek into your fun purchases.
Jill says
Crystal, I would love to hear more about your homeschool routine, curriculum, challenges, etc.
Jill F. says
Another series of posts related to your 7-day challenge.
Sarah says
I love your posts on routine and discipline with keeping a routine. It always inspires me to get back on track.
Di says
Crystal, I would love to hear some tips/ posts on how to have a morning routine when you have small children and/or babies. I don’t know how many times I’ve tried to have a routine only to flounder when something comes up with my kids or my baby (I’ve got three girls ages 6, 4, and six months). I also want to say thanks for all your home-making and money-saving advice – I have learned so much,
Ember says
I’d love to hear more about how you homeschool and the curriculum you enjoy (or not). I’d also love a mini review of all the books you read. Even just a couple of sentences would be great. I enjoy reading your blog, and am glad you’re sharing more of your everyday life. Thanks for all of your dedication!
Susan says
I agree with the person who commented that she likes to read your posts about stepping outside of your comfort zone.
But, by far my favorite posts of yours are those that discuss minimalism, decluttering, and paring down. I even like to read your posts about tossing out tired or unwanted items from the refrigerator! I find all of these to be very inspiring.
Thanks for asking about this.
Camille says
I’d love to hear more about marriage advice. It seems you have read a lot about it & put a lot of effort toward that – I’d love it if you would share more on that.
My husband & I have been going through a rough spot. But decided we REALLY need to put God first, instead of just sort of. It has helped! (who knew? lol)
We are also about to have our third baby (surprise!) and want to continue to grow closer, even through this time. We now know the challenges we are up against since we have had a new baby twice over already.
Thanks for all you do Crystal! Love you!
Miranda says
I know that part of the blog’s purpose is to share deals, which is great. I am much more drawn to your personal stories though. I love your freezer cookin sessions and hearing about your recent move.
Patty says
I would like to hear more of how you grow spiritually. What books you study, how you study the Bible etc.
Catherine says
I LOVE your blog!
I’d love to hear more about:
. You and your family
. How to manage stress
. This may be off-topic, but how to manage/parent when the two parents’ religious values are different. Before kids, it wasn’t a problem; now it’s a source of stress to me (I’m the religious one).
Thank you for asking!
Mandy says
I would love if you could have a guest columnist write about being a working single mom and tackling those issues, while trying to spend the time to be frugal and cook at home. I love your blog so much, but can feel out of place at times.
Jamie Rohrbaugh says
I love reading your posts about blogging and intentional living. I like the freezer cooking ones too, and I aspire to one day actually *do* some freezer cooking. Hasn’t happened yet, but it could happen… hopefully… LOL. 😉
Jennifer Hoffman says
Would LOVE to continue to se your menu plans each wek!! They have truly blessed me! Also maybe a cleaning daily life schedule.
Marie says
Hi Crystal! I would love to see more tips on running a small business/blogging/being a work at home mom! Thanks!!
connie says
Crystal, I would love to know more about what your home schooling looks like and if you were home schooled, and how that looked. Also, what is your style regarding home schooling: do you tend to follow the curriculum bit by bit or do you pick and choose what you feel is best for your kiddos. Thank you for sharing.
Jessica Griffith says
I LOVE reading your frugal tips! I especially like that you don’t always give the generic “cut the cable” advice. My husband and I already live super frugal and your advice is still applicable to us! I really enjoy when you post the “almost free” deals. You can bet that I print out your article and high tail it to my local CVS. Thank you so much for all your advice and blogging inspiration. I hope one day for my blog to be as well loved as yours!
Kristen says
You probably wrote about it at the time, but I would love to hear more about how you stayed organized and productive with small children (babies and toddlers) in the house. I love the ideas behind many of your posts but feel them unrealistic to implement at this time in my life. It makes some of your otherwise awesome posts a bit discouraging.
I also really love meal planning (especifcally make ahead or freezer style meals) that can be easily adapted to different dietary needs (vegetarian in my case).
Casey says
I love all your posts relating to being a wife and Mom: Cleaning, organizing, cooking/recipes, saving money, balancing those chores with kid, hubby and fun, time management and basically “doing it all.” Posts about days that just don’t go right also let me know I’m not alone!
Elizabeth says
I LOVE your posts already! I would love to hear more about:
-Your time management tips in daily life.
-Minimalism. It fascinates (in a good way!) me when you talk about a small wardrobe and how less is more.
-More business tips.
Thanks for ALL you do! You are so encouraging to read! 🙂
Karen says
I’d like to hear more about a time your family had to live off savings & how to overcome guilt when job loss happens & nothing can be saved.
Heather says
I am not a mom yet, so I appreciate more of the posts on the marriage, faith, and productivity (but keep the deals coming)
Rachael says
I need more tips on how to manage work and family for moms who work outside the home. Because I teach, it’s not hard during the summer months to follow many of your tips such as baking snacks, couponing, etc. But, when school’s on, I’m sort of a mess. Also, more on how you and your husband balance work/family and separate duties, particularly when you are traveling out of town (if it isn’t too personal!)
Courtney says
Hi Crystal! Count me in as yet another one who would LOVE to read about homeschooling. Also, frugal living tips – not so much coupons or deals, but advice on how to cut costs day to day. Some of my favorite posts have been the ones where your readers chime in with what they do to save money. I’ve gotten lots of great ideas from those posts!
Jenny says
-Frugality
-Holidays planning/decorating
-Entertaining and opening your home to others (especially since you seem to be doing more get togethers than in the past this year- meal planning/preparing for guests/ideas for entertaining on a budget)
-Lessons learned from moving (maybe in 3-6 months or so) including packing/how to meet new people/making new friends/making the jump to change or expand your business/career
Love the frequent peeks into your week that we get now! More of that 🙂
Love the little insightful posts as you raise your children and work on making your marriage a priority/extending grace to your husband
Keep up the good work!
Heart and Haven says
I’ve been a long-time reader and most enjoy “money saving tips” that don’t solely revolve around coupons. I’ve never been able to get them to work well enough for me to invest the time involved. Unless there’s something I’m missing! Like a 101 couponing for beginners (I initially wrote “for dummies”, lol). There’s some terminology you’ve used on some of the “deals” that I have no idea what they mean/how to use them (can’t remember specifically right now…but there was a deal I was trying to get that had a “stacked” coupon, but I couldn’t figure out how to use it.
I really thought your 52 week series was good; more along those lines.
Also, I’d like to know more about Jesse’s new role with the move. It sounds like he’s going to be working from home? How does that work? I’m mostly interested because I have 3 (soon to be 4) little ones at home, and my husband is about to start working from home full-time. I’m still trying to figure out the logistics of how that will work (we don’t have an “extra bedroom/office” space, so even the physical space I’m still figuring out!) How to make sure he gets focus time to work with the chaos of the kids at home, haha, quiet space for phone calls, how to minimize interruptions (both from me and the kids), etc. I love the idea of more time with family (from him not having to commute to work, having lunch w/us, etc), and savings on gas & car insurance…but trying to prepare how best to make everything else work!
Ariel says
Hi Crystal!
Thanks for building such an amazing website! I appreciate all the hard work!
I’d like to hear your homeschooling strategy. How you lesson plan, what curriculum you use, etc.
I’d also like to hear your thoughts on ways you still save money. For example, you’ve written how you and Jesse saved pennies on a small income while he was in law school. How do you budget now and how do you tweak it?
Thanks!
Jennifer Lopez says
I always love reading about budgeting and saving money with kids. I’m to the point in my life where my husband and I are wanting to try for a baby (it’d be our first) but we’re almost to afraid to go for it for monetary reasons. I would want to work either not at all or as little as possible or from home, but I don’t know that’s realistic. I love reading on cloth diapers, budgeting, freezer cooking, crockpot meals, etc! I did read your original article about when your first child came and my husband and I basically plan to do it just as simply 🙂
Steph @ From the Burbs to the Boonies says
Crystal, one of my favorite things is simple, easy recipes. I am always looking for something that takes very few ingredients and not a lot of time.
Amy says
I liked it when you had a list of 12 different, fun projects and you tried out one each month, and then showed us how it turned out…i.e. cleaning supply, baking, craft project, etc. That was fun to look forward to each month.
Also, I like your free books, but so many of the books you personally read are non fiction (understandably). But I am always looking for good recommendations for fun fiction I can read in my leisure time, especially with the summer here. Just lighthearted, fun reads that aren’t trashy or dirty. Sometimes that can be hard to find in modern fiction.
I am always interested in the easy, weeknight, in-a-hurry dinner recipes you share, and want more information on crafting and decorating projects on a budget as well.
Thanks for such a fun and relate-able blog. I look forward to reading it every day, and love reading about your family, too 🙂
Amy says
I forgot to mention, thanks for being so REAL! I love it when you admit you aren’t supermom and don’t masquerade as a perfect woman who always has it all together 24/7. It lets all of us know that even the most organized person can’t do it all perfectly, ALL of the time.
Sometimes when I let go of my “to do” lists and my hurry, hurry to get things done, those are the times when God really helps me to be present to experience life and enjoy the people around me. Experiences that I may have missed out on if my focus was simply checking off another item on my “to-do” list.
You’ve helped me realize that sometimes, being “present” for another person is more important than simply getting a task done.
Jennifer says
More about homeschooling. The whens, whats and hows. : )
SusanL says
I love your posts on recipes, especially freezer & crockpot. I am also always looking for free/cheap things to do with the kids. As they get older, trips to the park and simple free printables that I find online aren’t always keeping them interested like they used to. I also like DIY/crafts, and your cleaning or to-do checklists.
Cathy says
I’d love to see more on budgeting, working the day around homeschooling, and freezer cooking.
Heather says
Write about your homeschooling experience. I want to homeschool my children and would love to hear how you do it.
Staci says
I like it when you have chosen to write about something out of your comfort zone and tackling it! It is very inspiring. Choose something monthly to challenge yourself?! Maybe some more You Tube videos! Organic cooking and buying on Amazon? What do you study as a family in the Bible? What devotions? Would you ever share your faith journey or pictures from the past–Wedding, etc? Kind of like a throw back Thursday type post?!
Bobbi says
I like these ideas too!
And here is something I would like to see (even though this is not your situation): Ideas for full-time working moms with stay-at-home-dads raising the kids. It’s tough because I do all the shopping and couponing and “mom” stuff, but I am also gone during the work day! (Husband does the cooking, phew!)
Jill F. says
I have the exact same household! I couon but don’t know what we need because I don’t do the cooking!
Staci says
Realistic family night dinner menus/cooking, DIY, marriage dynamic, husbands new job, knitting, start an online book club/review, raising kids in the faith, take us behind the scenes of the conventions you attend, and how to homeschooling PreK age
Amber Fowler says
Crystal,
I would be so blessed to read a series that focuses on our self-worth and building up our confidence, both inside and out! Also, I was raised in the faith, but a 3 year abusive relationship in my late teens left me in a faith crisis. The Lord is slowly redeeming me, and I am finding my way back into prayer and recognizing his truths over the lies that were in my heart. Anyway, there is just a lot of shame that still remains, making it difficult for me to find my way back into a church community. (I know you aren’t a counselor, and many of these issues have been addressed with past counseling. I’m just in a bit of a limbo stage, if that makes sense)! Thank you!
Peggy says
Crystal, I would love for you and Jesse to write about how you set up your budget with specific percentages. Years ago, my husband and I used one from a Christian financial guru but it did not address the fact that some percentages need to change as incomes increase. This got us into trouble as our income rose ( we spent too much on food and misc, clothing… and did not shift more into savings and retirement). You all seem like very no-nonsense folks who would have a lot of wisdom to share in this area. God bless!
Sarah P says
I love reading about your freezer cooking sessions. I get a lot of new recipes from you!
Jody says
I would love to see more mini reviews of the books you read! Also how you came to be so disciplined in reading the Bible everyday…how you started and how you keep it up. Loving the direction the blog is going!
Heather says
I LOVED your 4 weeks to fill your freezer series! I say with a new home, it would be a great time to do another one with different recipes 🙂
jane says
Crystal, I’d love to see you write more about raising your children and your faith. You very much inspire me on both topics!!
Kate says
I would love to see more posts on raising/teaching children. I have two little ones and would like your tips on teaching to read, encouraging stewardship, fostering independence, etc.
Thanks!
Genevieve Peterson says
I love challenges with checklists, especially those with organization, time management, education, and cleaning!
Randi says
Crystal,
First I LOVE your blog and congrats on your move to Tennessee! I live in SC, and there’s nothing greater than the south 😉
I would love to see you write about how you use your grocery deals to compile a grocery list that then translates into a weekly menu for you.
I love all three of these blog posts, but they are always seperate and I need some help on how you get from point A (sales, deals) to point C (weekly menu)
Thank you!
Randi
Devri says
How about some frugal ways to spend on beauty needs? Like getting your hair colored/cut, how often, and how much money you should pay for those types of services, etc. Thanks! Love the website.
Liz says
I love the couponing, food, DIYs, and money-saving tips. Most of all?: ways to be productive, energized, and organized.
I see lots of people want more religious posts. I’m not religious, so if writing specific posts on religion will lead to less religion scattered in other posts I’m all for it. That way those that don’t want to read it won’t read that post and those that do can 🙂
Allison says
I on the other hand appreciate that your faith is intermixed into your posts rather than just one single post. It would be sad to see less of who you are in each post if it only showed up once in a while.
liz says
I never said a single post. It can be 10 posts a day, which would be a lot more often than once in a while. And I understand that, for example, in some posts it would show less of who she is and so she shouldn’t avoid it. Like in the life posts saying she went to church or the weekly goals about reading the bible. I understand that and I’m fine with that. But for example “How to be less stressed” and then “more prayer will relax you” I don’t get (not saying that was a post).
brandi says
I agree!!
Dawn says
The problem here is that Christianity is not a “religion.” It would be like asking Crystal to not scatter her children’s names throughout her posts. Because Christianity is a relationship with a person. Just like she is a mother, she is also a daughter of the Most High King. It is natural, if she is going to write about her life, she will talk about those people she has a relationship with; whether that is her child, her husband, a new neighbor, or Christ.
Liz says
I don’t understand why it is ok when people say they’d appreciate more religion but when I say I’d appreciate less it is not? Perhaps using the word scattered offended some people. If it did, i apologize, that was not my intention (i wish to be more eloquent). Besides that, i can’t see how my post could have been offensive. The post asked what I would like to see more of and i gave my answer. Dawn, it’s like you didn’t even read my response to Allison in which I said “I understand that”
Crystal Paine says
You didn’t offend me at all, Liz. I appreciate your honest response to my question and am grateful to have you as a reader here. {hugs!}
Liz says
Good to know and I am grateful to be a reader 🙂 {hugs back!}
Jessica says
Dawn, this is EXACTLY what I was going to say. Well stated!
Liz, I think Dawn was just trying to offer some clarity on why it would be impossible for Crystal to separate Christianity from her life (because Christianity IS her life.) As a fellow reader, I was not offended by your comments. I am glad you visit Crystal’s blog and I hope you continue to be inspired by her.
Liz says
Thing is, I don’t think it’s impossible. When people say “Have a nice day, God be with you” or “Salam alaikum” to me I just say “Thank you” or “Likewise”, I don’t express my opposing beliefs, I separate them.
Unfortunately, I grew up around a lot of nasty “religious” people who would be in church with their spouses and children and ogling at others (ones too young sometimes). Almost all the people I grew up with are “religious” yet almost all are gossiping, hurtful, and rude. That being said, the people on this blog seem to be truly religious (I mean that in a good way) and I appreciate that. I’m just not over the people I grew up around and am still stuck around (lol) so, unfortunately, my eyes start rolling when I hear of religion. I think it’s very possible to spread Christian morals without actually mentioning it. Ex: “Being gracious and kind gives me fulfillment” as opposed to “Being gracious and kind is what Jesus asks of me”. I think that way a larger audience gets the morals without feeling excluded.
Again, Crystal shouldn’t do it if she feels uncomfortable doing so, of course, I merely offered my opinion.
Thank you Jessica, glad to hear you weren’t offended 🙂 I will continue visiting and being inspired by Crystal, she truly is inspiring.
Crystal Paine says
I’m so very sorry you had such difficult experiences growing up. 🙁
By the way, I truly appreciate how gracious and kind you’ve been in this discussion. That says a lot about your character and heart — especially knowing your background and experiences.
I hope we get the chance to meet in real-life sometime!
Liz says
Thank you 🙂 could have been a million times worse.
Awww, thank you Crystal. I appreciate that you are gracious and kind to your readers. Maybe we will, i think that would be nice 🙂
Jessica says
Liz, are you Middle Eastern? 🙂 (“Salam alaikum!”) Reading your post, I think we grew up around the same people . . . (ha ha ha).
You do not have to respond to this, and I realize we have carried the topic far away from the original material, but I just want to share this with you quickly: Please remember that fallen human beings can misrepresent the Truth of Christ.
When I became a teenager, I began to thoroughly research my Christian faith because I saw too much of the behavior you described above. I realized, “This isn’t what Christ calls us to – I’d better figure out what He DOES want.” Even today, in some company, I have to take a breath and silently remind myself, “Be strong, show His love, stand up for Him with a firm yet merciful heart!”
In short, don’t abandon Him because of His sinful children (which we all are.) 🙂
I hope you can sense that I write this with love of Him and respect to you. Have a beautiful weekend.
Liz says
No, i am not Middle Eastern, but i grew up in a very diverse place.
I agree, i feel bad that my comments lead to off-topic conversation (sorry MSM team!).
I completely agree with you that they misrepresent what religion should be. However, they are only the reason I dislike religion (don’t get my wrong, i think religion is helpful in many ways), not the reason i do not believe.
I admire that you questioned your beliefs and came to your own conclusions 🙂 very good.
You have been very respectful, thank you. I hope I have also been respectful. I enjoyed our conversation and hope you, too, have a beautiful weekend 🙂
Again, sorry MSM team!
Kim says
I would like to know more about what food you buy organic and why. Also frugal ways to eat healthy. Why do priorities grinding your wheat? Do u buy local or organic meats? Thank you!
Ashley says
Crystal, I am a new mom so I would appreciate posts about balancing family life with distractions. Ideas on how to raise godly children with a firm footing would also be great! I have dreams of homeschooling, but have no idea where to start, where to look, etc. (I have time as my son is almost 11 months.) Words of wisdom that you can pass on to a rookie would be gladly soaked up 🙂 Thanks for working hard to bring sanity and stability to today’s moms!
melissa says
I would love to see a post on growing food in an apartment. Thanks Crystal and team!
Cheryl says
I would love posts/blogs about your Christian faith, and raising your family. We have a 10 and 12 year old and have been doing family devotions and would like posts on that. I loved hearing you a few weeks ago with Dr. Carlson!
Becky says
YES!!!! 🙂
Steph @ From the Burbs to the Boonies says
I too would love more posts about your faith and how you incorporate it into your family. I am raising an 8yo boy and want to teach him about God as much as possible, Thank you!
Emily says
I would love more DIY/frugal/easy home decorating tips!
Amy says
Me too!
Savanah says
I would love for you to share more about a day in your life homeschooling. Would also be interested in the curriculum you use and so on. Will be starting home schooling in the fall and have been reading your blog since she was a baby and I have always been inspired and blessed!!! Thank you.
Jennifer C. says
yes! homeschooling. perhaps how you juggle 3 – how you’ve chosen curriculum. Are you still using MFW? I first heard about it on your blog!! What has worked or not worked in homeschooling for you? There’s always a tendency to compare it that area to other moms – perhaps how you do/don’t fight that.
Jaime says
I would also like to know more about what your “homeschooling” day looks like. What curriculum do you use or recommend for Kindergarten? =)
Amanda S says
I enjoy all of your posts. But I LOVED the 52 ways to save $100 a year series!! I looked forward to it each week! I wouldn’t mind another series of tips to save money, or maybe tips on how to cook easier or something to make life easier, cheaper and more enjoyable!!
Congrats on the move and the life change. I grew up a military brat and moving is tough at the time but makes you stronger in the end (especially kids) because you learn to adapt easily and become a little more outgoing! Good luck with everything!!
Katie says
Yes love the saving series! That would be wonderful and meals as well!
Sarah says
Would love to hear more about your typical day to day life and how you manage to get it all done. I second those that said hearing more about how you manage to homeschool your kids (I have 3 that I homeschool) and fit in all the clearning, freezer meal cooking, blogging, reading etc. What does your typical day/week look like? Thanks!!
Laura Smith says
I seconded a comment above about how I’d love to hear more of your advice and insight into running your business (and balancing that with your other responsibilities) – especially advice for the beginning years when you can’t afford to hire help.
Also, I would love to see more videos.
Would also enjoy book reviews with your thoughts about the books you are reading.
Kelly says
I would like to see a post or 2 on your price points for purchasing or stocking up on products. Several years ago, I printed a chart you had that gave this info. Have those prices changed? With the rising cost of food & everything else, I’m curious to what you’ll pay for food, toilet paper, sunscreen, soap, etc. these days. Thanks.
Meredith says
Hi!
I’d love to hear more about mothering. I feel like I’m becoming a nag to my two older children, ages 6 & 8. I’m always wondering if I’m too hard on them, if it’s just right, etc…. We’re in a busy season of life right now, …. but I’m a teacher and will soon have the summer off. I’m finding it hard to get everything done and still be patient with my older children!
Laura says
You may have done this in the past but a post on your budget (X amount on eating out, X amount on groceries). Also, a post on the key price that you look for on certain items (I never pay more than X on cereal, never pay more than X on bread). Thanks!
Melissa Bieniek says
I would love to see you write a series about summer rituals that you can do with your kids. How you can keep ideas and activities fresh and exciting through the summer months. I don’t want my kids to get bored this summer. They are going to a few camps, but need activities on a budget. My kids are 9 and my twins are 7.
Tara says
Hi Crystal – I love hearing about your life. Your personalized posts keep me coming back, and I love the deal posts too. I think you’ve struck a new balance lately – love it!
Robin Y says
Homeschooling & tips on being productive while making relationships the priority. Love all of your time management posts.
T says
I love hearing about your experiences (trips, outings, grocery store, etc). It is a good way to see another city through your eyes since isn’t on our list of places to visit. It’s nice to read about you and your family too. We see that you are crazy busy like the rest of us but still make time to cook, find deals, and be real about your life. Keep up the good work Crystal.
allison says
I prefer the deal and freebie posts. There used to be lot more of those and I’m considering no longer reading this blog due to the change in content. I am a public school teacher and mom so the sahm/homeschool life posts aren’t something that interests me. Maybe two sections or two different blogs would be better. I’ve felt like this blog is having an identity crisis lately. It’s called MoneySavingMom so it should be about saving money, like it used to be, not all this other stuff.
Roxanne says
I’ve been reading all of Crystal’s blogs for 8 years, so I actually don’t mind the more personal posts.
However, I can completely understand where you are coming from. I have several blogs I go to for “just the facts.” I know the annoyance of having a blogger completely go from publishing a decorating/recipe/crafting to writing a personal journal. I have quit reading blogs when I tire of wading through numerous posts on the author’s vacations, kids, marriage, health, etc.
I think there is a tab on the top of this blog that says “Just show me the deals.” You are not alone, many readers only come for the deals!
Crystal Paine says
Thanks so much for your feedback! We switched our tagline to “Intentional Finance. Intentional Family. Intentional Business.” at the beginning of this year as I wanted to expand beyond just writing about saving money and frugality.
About a month ago, I wrote about how I was going to take this one step further and get back to my blogging roots:
https://moneysavingmom.com/2014/04/headed-nashville-changes-coming-blog.html
And then I wrote a followup post last week on the blogging changes:
https://moneysavingmom.com/2014/05/im-happy-back-moved-nashville.html
I completely expect that this change is not going to be something everyone is going to love. However, I know that there are many, many other blogs doing a fantastic job of just sharing deals/coupons so I know that if that’s all you’re looking for in a blog, there are a multitude of other wonderful options out there. We also have tabs at the top of the page for just freebies, or just coupons, or just deals, etc. to make it easy for you to find what you’re looking for.
Thank you to everyone who is joining me on this journey — you all bless me so much!
Wendy says
I would like to see the ask Jesse series return. I really enjoyed this series.
Marlena says
me too:)
Kelly says
I’ve seen several others mention this so I’m going to second that I would love to hear more about your minimalist lifestyle. I know you have discussed it before, but I’m wondering about things on a practical level. I am working toward minimalism and always appreciate great ideas. Thank you for all you do! I’ve been reading since Biblical Womanhood and have been so inspired by your journey!
Lisa says
Ah, minimalism! I posted above about feeling like I’m throwing out my kids when I’m going through their work to keep/toss. This is something I realllly want…but may need an intervention to achieve. Crystal, are you willing to tackle online interventions in addition to everything else you do?? 🙂
Christine says
I liked the $40 a week grocery menus and I would like more posts about your homeschool days. Such as “a day in the life” and the curriculum you use each year.
Hannah says
I would love to read more about your homeschool journey, what works for you and your children and what doesn’t. I know you are just a few years (4 or 5?) into the journey, as am I, but I love to glean from other people or just get a different perspective. Also, knowing how frugal you can be, would love to hear any frugal ideas you have I the homeschool realm.
Thanks!
Tiffany says
I would love to see you posting about your financial goals. I know you have a list you post, but I loved the days when we read along with you month by month chasing a BAHG!!!
Lola says
An a day in the life post would be awesome! Those are always a lot of fun to read!
Yvonne Reynolds says
Crystal, I would love for you to share more about your family’s involvement with Compassion. Do your kids draw pictures for your sponsored children? Do they help write any of the letters?
Thank you so much for all that you share with all of us. 🙂
Ai @ Less to More says
I really enjoy reading your posts about everyday family life. Perhaps some people may put you on a pedestal, but in your personal posts, you’ve always conveyed that you’re just an ordinary wife and mom with an extraordinary God. It’s helpful to get a heads up on various deals, but it’s also nice to read about the person behind Money Saving Mom … when we get to see that she really goes through the same things the rest of us do.
Meg says
Crystal, I would like an article on making friends when your life changes. Whether it’s health or family or big moves or frugality sometimes your past friend making self has changed and making friends is a new adventure and sometimes a challenge.
Lety says
Thank you for giving us the opportunity to make suggestions 🙂
I always wonder how you manage to get so much out of each day? I’d love to know if there is a process you go through to make everything fit in what seems to be, such a manageable way into your schedule? Is it based on your routines?
Thanks again! 🙂
Amanda B says
I love reading your blog already, so first I feel like I should say “Great Job!!!” But, I’d love to see something on saving when you have to spend. We spend every month on gas taking our son to special needs son to his needed therapies, appointments, and my medical appointments. Some are over an hour from home, so we end up having to eat out in addition to the cost of gas. Add in the specific brand of shoes (or something else) that has to be bought… It just adds up. The little things like birthday presents and new uniform parts (my hubby is in the military) in addition to the previously mentioned items seem to be what ruins our budget, so any advice on controlling that would be great.
Mandy Germain says
I too have a son with special needs so I have been there and done that. A couple of suggestions that might help. First instead of eating out try taking a “sack” lunch and have a quick picnic to break up the travel and wait time. Second when possible schedule an appointment in the morning and another that afternoon so you only have to make the long trip once instead of twice (I know this is not always possible but it helps).
Melissa says
Posts from the heart and just the daily life of you and yours.
Beka says
I LOVE the freezer meal posts! A couple other things I would love to hear about:
1. Details on how to get started with a cash budget. We have thought about it for a long time and more seriously lately, but we seem to get stuck because we feel like we don’t have enough money in the bank at one time to fill envelopes, are worried about forgetting cash a lot at first etc.
2. Information about affordable health insurance that is not through an employer. I am a mom to two young kids and currently work full time outside the home partially so that we can have good health insurance as my husband’s job only covers his insurance. Any tips on obtaining insurance on your own if I ever cut back on my hours or stay at home full time.
Lisa says
I would love info on the insurance as well. We are looking at CHM and Medi-Share right now, but each has something the other doesn’t and I feel overwhelmed trying to decide. If Crystal has connections with families who have actually used these (or any of the other health sharing ministries) I would LOVE to know how it actually works in *real life*.
On the cash budgeting, have you looked at any info that shares on getting started for people who are paid weekly or bi-weekly? I know I’ve seen tips of how to decide which envelopes to fund and when depending on pay cycles and/or cash flow issues. I believe Dave Ramsey covers this in his books and probably somewhere on his blog. Good luck! We’ve been doing this for a few months and it makes such a difference!
Sarah P says
Lisa,
My family has been with Samaritan Ministries for a year now. We love it. We have had 2 needs shared and not paid anything out of pocket. We love sending our share each month knowing who and what it goes to. If you have more questions feel free to email me at skpowers3 @ gmail . Com (take out the spaces :))
Michelle says
Would you consider sharing why you purchase conventional food verses organic? I can tell your health is important to you 🙂 Just wondering why this wouldn’t be on the list. Please know I want to ask this in the most respectful way possible. I’m really enjoying the more personal side to the blog! Thank you for sharing 🙂
Lisa says
I would love to hear your insight on how you respond to the disappointment when you have worked so hard to save money in an area and then face waste by kids (tubes of hard-couponed toothpaste all squeezed down the drain or kleenex boxes wadded up for play…). It is so hard not to see everything for the dollar value it represents… Thanks. I love your site!!
Jennifer says
I would love to know more about how you manage your time….what does an average week look like as far as time spent with kids, time with family, time with friends, time with work, etc?
Kristen says
Hi Christal!
I know you still post money deals, but I wish you wrote more about frugality, saving money, and financial advice like you used to.
Thank you for listening 🙂
Crystal Paine says
Be sure to check out my year+ long series I recently finished on 52 Ways to Save $100 Per Year:
https://moneysavingmom.com/tag/52-different-ways-to-save-100-per-year
There will be plenty more money-saving posts and series like that coming up in the months and years to come. I just took a little breather after finishing up that series. 🙂 And if you have any specific questions related to saving money, financial advice, etc. that you’d love for me to answer, I’m all ears! I’m always looking for great Q&A post ideas. 🙂
Lisa says
This reminds me of the weekly (?) feature you used to do where Jesse answered readers’ questions. I really enjoyed that! Would he be willing to tackle those again??
Crystal Paine says
I’ll ask him if he would consider it — thanks for the suggestion!
Debbie L. says
I would love to see posts that focus on decluttering paperwork, kids art projects, memorabilia, and the like and specifically how you make the decisions on what to get rid of and what to keep and then how to store it. You seem like you’re proficient in this area! I am sentimental (my husband is totally not) and it’s hard for me to let things go. I’ve made a lot of progress in recent years but still feel overwhelmed when I look inside some of our drawers and the pile of boxes/totes in our basement. I know it would be so mentally freeing to get rid of most of it but the emotions kick in :).
Jennifer says
I completely understand what Debbie is saying..I’m sentimental and have a hard time letting go of things, even though I know it would be freeing to de-clutter and let go of many things.
Debbie L. says
Glad to meet a kindred soul :).
Lisa says
Amen! I know what you mean about emotions kicking in! It’s like I’m throwing out the kids!! :/
Charity says
I would love to hear more about how you deal with your struggles. Blogs and social media can tend to bring out the better side of people, but I like the posts where you share about the real struggles with overcoming in different situations. Also, I have thought for quite some time that I would love to hear how God is speaking to you during your time of Bible reading and prayer. Are there verses that stand out to you? Was there a morning that you read a verse and saw how it fit perfectly to your day or circumstances? Did you recently read a verse that never really stood out to you before, but for some reason it did this time? I love that you do include your faith in many posts and realize you have a diverse audience, but I personally would enjoy that sort of a post. 🙂
Brett says
I’ve been a reader since 2008 and I’ve seen you and your blog grow in so many ways. But I am glad that you are getting back to a more personal style of blogging, as that is what sets your blog apart from other deal blogs and forums.
I would love to hear more about homeschooling on a budget (ie. curriculum, supplies needed for art/music/science/etc, field trips, how to teach three different children at the same time in a frugal manner, the different learning styles your children have and how you meet their needs and stay in a budget, any assistive technology you use and the costs, any ways to save money in this area).
I would also like to see more of your personal slant on posts for deals and freebies; for example when you post about free apps on Friday – which ones do you actually download and why? Any on the list that you wouldn’t download? etc? Another example, to detail your grocery store trips and budget.
And I’d love for you to write about the help that you get – whether it’s a mother’s helper, house cleaner, babysitter, team members, etc. and how you got to the point of needing extra assistance and how you go about budgeting for it.
Keep up the great work! And thank you for being open to suggestions, that’s a difficult and vulnerable thing to do 🙂
Julie says
Thanks for asking for feedback Crystal. I would love to hear about your rental house and how you chose the one you purchased. What books did you and Jessie read to learn about real estate investing? Do you plan to continue buying more real estate as an investment? I would love to learn how to get started!
Lisa says
That’s a good suggestion! We are just beginning to have a *little* more money in our budget and I have been pondering how to go about investing it. I like the idea of the return on investment with a rental property but don’t know how to begin. Also, tips on tenant/landlord issues because that may be what scares me even more than the purchase!! 🙂
Hannah Hill says
I would love to see you write about your crafting/needlework projects more. I’ve loved that!
And I would love, really love, to read about your journey from legalism to grace. I come from an ultra-conservative black-and-white homeschool background and have only recently started realizing just how wrong and damaging that worldview is.
Crystal Paine says
When I actually *finish* another craft/needlework project, I’ll be sure to share. I’ve not done much in that department in the past two months… but I have great ambitions to pick needlework back up again now that we’re mostly all settled! 🙂
And if we ever meet in person, I’d be happy to share about the journey I’ve been on the past five years of my life. It’s not been easy, but it’s been oh so good! Someday, I may write more about it somewhere… for now, I’m just quietly processing, learning, and growing.
Ashlea says
I’d love to hear more about your homeschooling adventures, how you plan your day to accomplish your goals, and more personal frugal menu planning stories. I also miss the personal meal planning and grocery shopping posts. I was always inspired by your posts on feeding a family on a budget, and while I know you may not be on a strict budget like you have been in past years, that is what brought me to moneysavingmom in the first place. Thanks for asking!
Crystal Paine says
I’m back to posting our meal plans and shopping trips! I started back up when we moved and plan to post them every week (we skipped shopping last week since we ended up having more leftovers and meals with friends than we were planning and we ended up not needing to go to the store except for a few basics!). You can see all the non-deal posts — including my menu plans and grocery shopping trips — here: https://moneysavingmom.com/no-deals (click on the “Skip the Deals” tab at the top of the blog to access these!)
Jo says
Crystal, I love the posts when you talk about spending quality time with your children and how you learn from them like they’re learning from you. Marriage posts and book reviews about marriage are great, too! The posts where you are just “you,” detailing a success or failure, whether in the kitchen or the minivan, are my favorites.
Sharon says
Would love to hear more on how to live on a budget and get out and stay out of debt including practical day to day tips on how to stick with it!
Jennifer says
Here are just a few ideas: book reviews, goal setting, how to set goals for blogging, favorite prayers, favorite lines of scripture, how you first knew when you wanted to be a writer, organizing a home schedule.
Helena says
I love all your posts, but it would be neat to see you write about how to integrate green living along with frugality. Many people seem to think being kind to the earth comes at a greater cost, rather than a way to be frugal. I’ve written several posts like this in the past but am always curious what other’s perspectives are on it, and since I’ve followed you for several years now and absolutely love your blog (it’s my favorite one- ssshh don’t tell anyone!), I often wonder what your thoughts and perspectives are on this topic.
Beth says
Crystal, What I miss in your blog is you describing why you selected a deal to post. Your personal testimony for using a product or a story about someone you know who loves a product set your blog apart from others who simply listed a deal.
Thanks for such a great blog!
Jaime says
Hi Crystal!
I have been a reader since 2008. I distinctly remember purchasing your ebook bundle in 2008 or 2009 and trying to figure out the couponing game and how to feed our little family on a teeny, tiny budget. However, while you were so incredibly informative and I appreciated (and still appreciate!) that, I just couldn’t help but feel judged by your words in many blog posts. I have a very different set of beliefs, both politically and religiously, and I just felt…..dismissed? judged?…..often.
But, I really noticed a change in your blog posts the last several years and I just want to thank you so much. I’d love to know if there was a moment that changed you or what happened to cause such a change? I remember you had another mothering blog and took it down, and I think that was where I felt most disliked/judged.
I now feel encouraged and uplifted by you and I can’t thank you enough! Thank you for everything you do!
Crystal Paine says
I am so very sorry you felt judged. Will you please forgive me? Also, I’m so grateful that you’ve noticed a difference. It’s been a journey for me the past few years… I wrote a little about it here: https://moneysavingmom.com/2013/10/less-judgment-more-acceptance.html
Liz says
You’re not alone 🙂 I have very different beliefs also.
Allyson @ All Our Days says
I’d love to see a post with tips on networking and developing friendships with other women when life is busy with kids, homeschooling, etc.
Maria says
I love what you write, so I don’t really have any suggestions for the content. I would like to see a tweak to the format of some of the things, and I don’t know the techie terms to explain it. I’ve been cyber-stalking the site all week for the healthy challenge updates; I thought I missed them, and I like to check-in on those. If I try to go to an earlier post, like the week 21 check-in, there’s no link forward to get me to the week 22 check-in through the week 21 post.
Sometimes I find a ‘series’ from a year or so ago that I’d like to see how it went, since the post I’m reading indicates there will be more, though trying to sift through all the other posts from that period to get the ‘update’ is time-consuming. If those ‘challenges’ or ‘series’ could somehow be linked together from the first to the last in a different way, it would be easier to follow it later.
Crystal Paine says
All the posts in a series should be linked at the bottom of each series posts. Every once in a while, I forget to link them to the series (and feel free to remind me when I do!), but for the most part, if you scroll down to the bottom of any of the posts in the series, all the posts should be linked there. I hope that helps!
JC says
I didn’t read all the posts, so I apologize if this is a duplicate. I would love to see a post on charitable giving on a budget. For instance in May we received requests to give to a missions trip (x two), a local preschool fundraiser, and two other fundraisers at church. I believe in all these causes, and if they had been spread out over several months, I wouldn’t have an issue. If we give $25 to each, that’s $150 we really were not planning on spending. At the moment we are saving for some really big (life changing) goals. I am torn between putting money in savings that I know we will need in just a few months and giving generously to God’s kingdom. (Note we already give to our church, and we support other ministries on a monthly basis.) I would love to know your thoughts on this, and once our budget becomes more restricted what are some ways to go about choosing which things to give to.
Stevi says
Can you make something for these donations instead of money? Could you bake some nice cupcakes or pies, or could you donate your time to something they might need help with
Lauren says
I just want you to blog whatever comes up in your head. You are so inspiring! The best thing I learned from you has been the freezer meals. If you have any more like the hot pockets, that would be great!
Melanie says
I would love for you to do some posts on teaching & training little ones (age 2-6) as well as how you approach schooling little ones (formal or informal).
I could also use some help with growing my marriage and encouragement in the area of spending time alone with the Lord each day.
Finally, I would enjoy a post or two on tips for building friendships in a new place.
Thanks so much for all you put into your blog. I really enjoy reading it each day as I pump for my little one who doesn’t nurse due to a cleft palate.
Marianne Hardy says
I have followed you nearly daily for years. When you had other blogs even. I liked it if you did a post on how life works at your house when you go on your speaking engagements. I find things fall apart for me when I get busier. What do you do? How do you readjust to your schedule when you return.
Lauri says
I love all info about menus, groceries, and other ideas to stretch a food budget. I truly enjoy seeing what you guys buy for food and what you make for meals how much you spend, etc. thanks for sharing your stories!!!
Chanda says
I’d love to hear more about your homeschooling. What curriculum you use and why. How you structure your day. Do you participate in coops? Etc.
Laura says
Another reader who would love to hear more about how homeschooling fits in your day! I find that I am so exhausted after a morning of homeschool that I don’t have the energy for freezer cooking, cleaning, etc. I’d love to know how you pace yourself or find the energy to push through.
Margaret says
Me too! I’m just about to start homeschooling with my oldest this fall, for kindergarten. I haven’t picked out all my materials/ curriculum yet and (though I know you’re a few years past this stage) tips on working with a school-age child while keeping preschoolers/ babies occupied. 🙂
Lola says
I’d love to hear more about your homeschooling too and how you fit it in day to day and how you taught your children to read!
Carrie L says
Me three! I’ve been homeschooling for 14 years. This year I’ll be teaching 12th, 10th, 8th, 4th, and k5!! (gulp!) Even though I’ve got quite a bit of experience, I love hearing what others are using… likes/dislikes, etc.
Sarah @The Teacher's Wife says
I’m super interested in how you balance growing a blog {especially in the early days when you didn’t have the extra help from your team} with family and your marriage. I’m still in the early phases of growing my blog and get overwhelmed with what I should be focusing on most – commenting/reading other blogs, networking, working on my own posts, trying to write guest posts, making my site look nice and easy to navigate, etc. – each day. There just doesn’t seem to be enough time in the day to work on my blog while also keeping my family and marriage the top priority and getting adequate sleep. I usually gets lots of encouragement out of all your “personal” posts though, so I’m looking forward to more of them!! 🙂
sarah @ little bus on the prairie says
I second this. There was a discussion on laura vanderkam’s review of the nesting place where your name was mentioned several times in relation to someone who has grown from a sahm blogger to a profitable business with lots of help. I know you have alluded several times to how frantic and burned out you were prior to hiring help, but more detail as to how you would have done things differently to make your home life more manageable while still growing a business would be very interesting and helpful – especially with littles!
Laura Smith says
I second this also. I know you have talked bout how you felt overwhelmed when you were starting your business and wouldn’t necessarily do things the same way if you were to do it again. I’m curious about specifically what you would do differently and how you would manage to still keep your business growing before you could afford to hire help. I also would love to know how you made financial decisions for your business in the early days. How did you decide what money to re invest and what to bring home? How did you determine what was a wise investment and what wasn’t?
Stephanie says
I love the recipe information and the weekly plan it really gets me revved up to keep on top of my menu planning even when id just rather throw open the refrigerator and have it be every person for themselves:D
Karen says
I would love to see more book reviews (what you are reading for yourself & to your children), current homeschool curriculum & reasons as well as general homeschool stories, posts on minimalism, Bible verses that encourage you, and general life stories, especially about choices and priorities.
Leelah says
Yes, I too would love to see more book reviews as well as how you keep track of what you learn from the books. Do you take notes when you read? If so, how and where do you store them. I’d also like homeschool recommendations and more about your daily schedule as it relates to your kids. Thanks! Love your blog and am enjoying the more personal side of things.
Christie says
Would love for you to do a series sharing your faith as it relates to your commitment to frugal living and giving generously.
Would love a series on marriage — inexpensive dates, gift ideas, ways to be purposeful in keeping your marriage the top priority amidst all of life’s other activities.
Would love to see a weekly post sharing what the Lord is currently teaching you, what He’s impressing upon your heart.
Would love a series on how to frugally decorate a house — DIY projects, etc.
Would greatly appreciate movie reviews and suggestions to put those Redbox coupons to use!
Crystal, keep up the great work! You are such an inspiration. I love your can-do spirit. And I’m really looking forward to your upcoming more personal posts. 🙂
Melissa says
Crystal, I would love to learn more how you’ve cultivated such an excellent support system of like-minded individuals to form friendships for both yourself and your children. I live outside Chicago and I’m struggling trying to find Christian homeschooling groups for my child. There are an abundance of homeschooling groups but God is not allowed to be brought up. How did you seek meaningful Christian relationships? Our church is absolutely amazing but has a school attached so no homeschooling or mother groups are offered. Thank you for your daily inspiration!
Denise @ My House, My Rules! says
I read blogs that let me see the blogger’s “real life” so any posts that talk about your life – the good and the bad – sound good to me. I also liked it in the past when you had a 30 day decluttering challenge.
Kristin says
I’m in agreement with all suggestions above, especially posts about homeschooling! Thanks for posting some links in the first comment! 🙂 love reading your blog! It’s become part of my daily “mommy time”.
Cindy says
I would love to see more about minimalist lifestyle (as others mentioned, the vlog about your wardrobe was so interesting and inspiring to me). I also enjoy posts about things you tried and how it worked out (recipes, pintrest idea, etc). I also enjoy anything about your personal inner struggles (life decisions, emotions, etc).
Joann says
I’d love almost a Heloise series about how to clean crazy places…like the sliders on the sliding glass door!
Suzanne says
I’m a Pinterest girl and I’ve always loved hearing about the Pinterest crafts, kids activities and recipes you’ve tried. I like decorating our home on a budget so I made some toilet paper roll artwork for our bedroom that I read about on your site. Always looking for budget friendly crafts or home decor/DIY projects. I have also done a few activities with the kids based on pins you tried. Nice to know what works and what doesn’t. I have also enjoyed the homemade gift ideas. I make homemade vanilla for all my friends and my kids teachers every year.
Bev says
Homeschooling, house tour, photos of your daily life, life in Nashville, frugality, easy recipes and please tell about your move. We are planning a move cross-country and need all the tips, ideas and links to sources for moving that we can get!
I’m a reader that has been following your blog since it was called Biblical Homemaking or something (sorry, can’t remember the name), I’m glad you are going back to real life posts – I’m not much for the free stuff posts but I know others are. I would like to see it separate from your real life blog because it is frustrating to weed through the posts.
Crystal Paine says
If you click on “Skip the Deals” in the header, you can read all the non-deal posts without having to weed through the deal posts, too. I hope that helps!
Bev says
Thank you!!! I had no idea that was there LOL! 🙂
amber says
I first found moneysavingmom around 4 years ago. I love seeing your shopping trips and weekly meal plan. I also enjoyed your freezer cooking.
Swapna Krishnan says
Would love to see more posts on cooking, your recipes and saving money posts. I also love your goal posts and free books posts!
KT says
I would love to see how your living simple (not complicated and hopefully frugal) intersects homeschooling, organizing, gift giving, keeping a home, and other things. I appreciate how you show your frugal, simple ways with food and decluttering.
Anna says
Posts on intentional living are always good. I’d Aldo like to hear more on how to strike a balance between saving for the future and giving generously, living frugally and knowing when to splurge, etc, especially as a Chrostian. Sometimes it’s hard to know– should I put that extra money in my retirement acct or give it to help refugees? Should we buy a special treat as a family or should we be on our guard against materialism? How do you personally make those decisions (obviously its different for everyone, but its something my husband and I are grappling with).
Happy Healthy and Wealthy Girl says
Crystal, I love your blog because it is personal and you write about different things that are important for you.
Grace says
I really enjoy all of your personal posts! In general, blog posts I enjoy reading usually include thoughts on people’s walk with God, thoughts on the books they’re reading, recipes and what they’re eating at the moment, and just stories about everyday life.
Deana Wood says
I would love to hear more about your homeschooling. Any money saving/minimalist tips for us? It seems like our homeschool stuff (especially preschool) takes over! I’d also love to know more about how you juggle homeschooling with your business and all the other things you do! I love this new direction you’re taking!
Lindsey says
Thank you, Crystal. This is very thoughtful of you. I would like to see a post on how to save on chiropractic care. I would like it if you shared your favorite quotes from the books you are reading. I would also like to see more guest posts from moms who work full-time or are otherwise the main source of family income.
Jaime says
I’d love to hear more about your simple wardrobe and how you update it each year. My family and I are moving in 2 weeks and I’m really focused on simplifying everything..beginning with my wardrobe.
Deborah says
I love reading about how you manage your work and family life, along with all of your other time commitments. I’d love to see a “day in the life” type of post. You’re energy is so motivating!
Dona says
Crystal, I have been most inspired by your grasp on a minimalist lifestyle. I recall your wardrobe vlog and loved that! I would love to see more of your “minimalist” anything! Just keep inspiring me to unload my own junk!I love knowing a mom of three can still have a minimalist style home. If it were not for my kids and pressure from other family..I know I would have less!
sarah says
I’d be interested in hearing your thoughts on having more children. How does one make the decision to expand their business and/or build a family. If I remember correctly, your first blog mentioned that you struggled to initially have children and would not withhold from having more. As a fellow Christian, I would be interested in reading a post about life experiences that have shaped your decision.
Linna says
You mentioned in a recent post that you’re trying to be more spontaneous and fun and to “embrace life” more–would love to hear more about how you came to that decision and how that’s playing out in your life. I have a beautiful life I’m grateful for, but what’s missing is that I almost never feel free…free to just have fun and be in the moment. Would love to learn from you in this area.
Amy says
I would like to see posts on book reviews, recipes, menu planning, deals, freebies and kids activities.
Mindy says
Crystal, I always love to see what you are reading and always see your books that you’re reading in your goals for the week. I would like to see more “Book Review” type posts to see what your thoughts were on the book and whether or not you would recommend the book. I am always inspired to read more after seeing how much you read! I also love to see the books that you read to your children. Thanks!
Misty Nicole Overstreet-Roberts (The Lady Prefers To Save) says
Crystal, I’d love to see more topics on how to expand social media outlets for bloggers, staycation ideas, and series and organization. Also, an idea, would maybe to mentor a different smaller blogger each month, give them weekly pointers, and then let the blogger post a guest piece each week on how your tips have helped them.
Julie Carns says
**Like!!**
sarah @ little bus on the prairie says
That would be intensely awesome.
Julie Carns says
I would love to hear your thoughts on how to plan your grocery list when the prices are changing every.single.week! It feels like a gamble to not knowing how many prices are going to be higher every week even at Aldi. We garden, stock up on turkeys at Thanksgiving, buy in bulk from the co-op (we get our own $400 load delivered up our driveway), pray over our grocery list and still struggle to keep up with the rising prices. 🙁
Lindsy says
I would love to know more about how you grow your relationship with God. What or how do you choose what to read for your quiet time etc.
Also every recipie I have ever made of your turns out wonderful. We need more more more! Several of your suggestions have become regulars at our house!
Charity says
I’m loving your blog lately! Before it honestly seemed so “business-minded” that it was a bit boring to me. I Love things being down to earth and honest. You know, it’s nice to know you aren’t perfect. 😉 I always look forward to recipe posts and menus and the grocery posts from you and your sisters. But more than any of our suggestions, just do what your Lord and your husband thinks is best, and be you! I think that’s when people appreciate you and you bless others the most is when you’re just genuine (not just you, everyone). 🙂
Andrea Buwalda says
I agree. I love the faith aspect of the site & love when you post on your family & contentment. I love the post about random little moments of an ordinary day. I loved the one about you in sweats in an elevator with other “dolled”up ladies. It’s me everyday with my three little ones. We just moved too so I am right on with you.
Stef says
Curriculum choices as your girls get older would be interesting to see!
Anya Novak says
I’d love to see more posts about stretching your clothing budget and making your clothes last, perhaps a few how-tos on clothing repair!
Lesley says
I know you’re an e-reader but what books did you read to your kids? Did you buy discounted books or only use the library? What childrens books would you recommend for toddler age? Would you recommend buying Amazon used books or e-reading for kids? I love reading books to my daughter and want to try e-reading without buying at discount stores but dont know where to begin looking. Thank you in advance. Love love your blog!
Jessica says
I would love a post about staying grounded / contentment as it relates to couponing and deal-seeking. Finding the right balance, that sort of thing. I’ve been having problems with this. With so many deal postings not just here but even my local news station has a “deals” segment now, I almost feel panicked if I don’t run out to the store right away to get in on the deal. How to control yourself while still getting good deals and keeping on budget but without being greedy or dishonest. Then there are people on Facebook who brag about their “glitch” deals at Target such as pointing out a wording mistake on a paper towels sign. Seriously, there was one person who took a sign to the store manager that said “103 ct. paper towels $9.99” and told the manager that it meant 103 ROLLS of paper towels for $9.99. Now we all know that is not what the store meant. The store meant that each roll of paper towels had 103 sheets and the plastic shrink-wrapped package had a price of $9.99. Then I saw one where somebody who was in her mid-20s got 98 packages of Poise incontinence pads at Target doing back to back to back transactions 2 items at a time to exploit a coupon and gift card deal. I pity the older person who went in after that and couldn’t get their supplies. So a post on contentment vs greed in deal seeking would be very helpful to me.
Julia says
I’d love more posts about minimalism, Crystal.
Thank you for letting us make requests!
Danielle B says
I’d like encouragement for those of us who are struggling, especially financially. The last 8 years have been very hard for us, and while we’ve seen many of our friends and family’s situations get much better, we’ve slid further and further down.
My husband and I and our three children moved from Virginia to Montana in 2012, lived there for 15 months, and then moved from Montana back to Virginia at the end of October last year. This was all centered around a job, dreams for our future and the hope that we could create a better life.
Instead, our situation is worse.
Our life is a constant struggle on all fronts right now, and it’s pretty discouraging. Some days just getting out of bed is overwhelming.
So, maybe some “real” posts about being in the depths of those struggles and keeping hope alive would be good.
And by the way, I am SO thankful that “YOU” are back!
Crystal Paine says
{Hugs!} I’m SO sorry!
I immediately thought of this recent post and wanted to share it for you (or anyone else) who can relate to your situation: https://moneysavingmom.com/2014/05/keep-hope-alive-everything-goes-wrong.html
KS says
I would, as others have said, to see more freezer cooking posts as I am trying to get into making more food for the freezer. I always LOVE your recipe posts.
Thanks for letting us share our ideas!
Denise says
I would love to hear more about keeping marriage strong. You are always talking about your love notes to Jesse but I’d love to hear other ways you keep things from getting monotonous. Especially on a budget.
Crystal Paine says
Learning to speak each other’s love languages has been life-changing for our marriage –> https://moneysavingmom.com/2013/02/simple-ways-to-celebrate-your-valentine-on-the-cheap.html
Sheyla says
I would love to read more on purposeful living, living below our means, and how to not let crazy schedules make you crazy. I am currently reading your book. I am in survival mode. The problem is I put too much on myself, don’t allow myself grace and think I’m not as good of a mom because I can’t do it all. I’m off work for summer and am ready to begin living more purposefully and enjoying the moment with my husband and my very active boys! Thanks for your inspiration
Brandette says
My favorite posts are: Freezer Cooking, Recipes, Grocery Trips, Everyday life with your littles, Posts regarding your recent move/what you did with your house in Kansas/Future plans in TN as time moves on, Budget friendly cooking and recipes, Tips and advice on starting & maintaining a blog.
Love you and all that you do for us. I am SO VERY HAPPY you are getting back to your blogging roots. I was a little sad in recent years (I have been reading since you started MSM) that the blog seemed to be commercialized and I missed the “let’s just sit around and talk with some friends” feel. So happy you are back!
Crystal Paine says
Thanks so much for your sweet encouragement!
Lydia @ The Thrifty Frugal Mom says
Totally agree with this! And since Brandette said pretty much word for word what I was going to say, I figured I’d just say Amen! 🙂 I’m enjoying have YOU back…more like it used to be.
Sandy says
I second everything said in this post. I had quit
reading because most of the posts were done by guests or your team.
I wanted to hear from you not others.
Jessica Hanson says
Crystal, I have been following ur post for years and love it. I would love some new recipes for freezer cooking, I love ur cinnamon buns and burritos but I am starting to get in a rut with cooking and would love something new. Or I love hearing about ur family and ur daily schedule. I would love to try and do ur blog on waking up earlier now that I am not pregnant or have a newborn. Thanks for ur blog I feel empty if I don’t check it everyday, truly an inspiration for me!
Crystal Paine says
Aw, thank you so much for your sweet encouragement and for the great post ideas!
NaDell says
I like great family recipes that are budget friendly!
Karen says
I would love to see a vlog on your minimalist wardrobe for fall/winter (like you did before with a more spring/summer wardrobe….or how about a new updated vlog for a spring/summer wardrobe-including your cute maxi dress :o) ). And more writings with photos of what a minimalist home might look like. I would love to get where you are as far as letting go of material possessions in order to have peace and focus on the much bigger picture. Love the new direction of your blog. Keep up the good work and know you are appreciated.
Katie DeMonja says
I agree with this one, both the minimalist wardrobe (something I’ve wanted to do but have had a hard time with) and the house (I love seeing pictures of other peoples’ homes!)
What is the link to the minimalist wardrobe post for spring/summer? I must have missed it.
Shannon says
I agree with both of these!
Mrs. W says
I would love to see more minimalist posts too! I would love to see posts/pics on your minimalist home and how you keep the clutter down. I also especially would love to see one on toys again. I know quite a few years ago you did posts on not having too many toys. I would love to know if it is still that way with your older children and how you manage.
I would also love to see homeschooling posts- and what curriculum you use, what your days are like with homeschooling, etc.
Pam says
Hi! I would really like when you share your recipes and links to your favorite recipes.
Jennifer says
Hi Crystal. I think that what you write on it great. I love your tips, recipes and how-tos. You might have wrote about this a time or two but how about staying motivated, how you keep up with your to-dos, goals, how through the daily grind, you keep going. Thanks for all you.
Rebekah says
Homeschooling, for sure! Why you started, why you continue, curricular choices and rationale, and a “day in the life of your homeschooling”-type posts would be great motivation and inspiration for me. ( :
Amanda says
Me too! I especially want to know criteria on how you pick curriculum. It’s so overwhelming!!
Julie says
I would like to see “hands on ” videos for the recipes that you make ! It would be an added bonus when trying to make them—sometimes they do not turn out looking like the pic that was posted. Also, since you make so much of your family’s food—-do you purchase in bulk ?
Crystal Paine says
Great minds think alike! I actually am already planning to do some hands-on videos for some of our favorite recipes… look for those soon!
And here’s a post with some of my thoughts on buying in bulk: https://moneysavingmom.com/2013/05/52-different-ways-to-save-100-this-year-buy-in-bulk-week-19.html
KS says
Yay – excited about the hands on videos- will be fun to watch 🙂
Elysha says
I’ve always liked the goal posts (ha) and the posts about your schedules. I am not a Type A person, and so setting goals and writing down a schedule is very counter-intuitive for me.
Michelle says
Crystal, I would love to hear your thoughts about your next home. Did you sell your previous home? Are you planning to buy in Nashville? Would you pay all cash again? Are the housing markets similar?
Thanks!
Andrea Buwalda says
me too!
Lisa Bartels says
I love all the links to free items and great ideas
Diana says
I love hearing about your family life and the pictures. I think all of the articles you publish are always right on target and are always the messages so many of us need to hear! Just continue following your heart and however the Lord prompts you to share 🙂
Crystal Paine says
Thanks so much for your kind encouragement!
Robyn says
Crystal, I would like to see an article regarding balancing family and work. As well as, the importance of family moral support. Oh, and thank you for being an inspiration to me!
Crystal Paine says
Does this post address what you were looking for? https://moneysavingmom.com/2013/09/how-to-balance-motherhood-blogging.html
{Thanks for your kind encouragement!}
Nicole says
I would love to hear more about homeschooling! Especially about what you did when you were first starting out..for preschool and for kindergarden
Crystal Paine says
I thought you might find these links helpful —
Here are 15 of our favorite preschool and kindergarten resources: https://moneysavingmom.com/2012/04/15-recommended-preschool-and-kindergarten-resources.html
And this post gives you a peek into our day a few years ago: https://moneysavingmom.com/2011/06/qa-how-do-you-manage-homeschooling-and-homemaking-without-the-house-falling-apart.html
Nicole says
I’m wondering how old Silas was when he started my fathers world k because that is what I want to start my 4 year old boy on in the fall. Thanks so much 🙂
Crystal Paine says
My girls were 4 when they started. It worked well for them and we loved i!. We’re using Alpha Omega Kindergarten for Silas because that seems better suited for where he’s at right now (he wasn’t picking up on reading with MFW K like the girls did so we decided to try something that was a little slower paced and had a lot more repetition to see if that would work for his learning style. Time will tell!).
Nicole says
Thanks so much for your response! This has been helpfull 🙂 have you had a problem with counting with any of your kiddos? My four year old can count to about three…and even that is hit and miss..sometimes he says one, two, one..he almost never says one, two, three, four
Crystal Paine says
Things that helped with counting for us: counting objects over and over again in everyday life (How many carrots do you have on your plate? let’s count them!), counting while doing daily tasks (such as counting to five every time you brush your teeth), and counting while in the car. When my kids were little, I tried to make counting, ABC’s, etc. something we practiced a lot as part of our every day life — while cooking, while bathing, while getting dressed, while playing, while in the car, etc. This really helped… not sure if it will help your 4-year-old and you may already be doing it, but I just thought I’d mention it. We also found the LeapFrog DVDs to be helpful for letter and number repetition and recognition.