Zephyr Hill

A Family Blog

How to Create More Room in a Tiny House

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We are no stranger to little houses. As newlyweds, my husband and I rented a place with just 4 rooms. Last year, we managed to cram 8 people into a 1400 square foot farmhouse. Our dining table was so small we couldn't eat together as a family. We even had to saw our box springs in half to fit it up the narrow little staircase. And I definitely don't have fond memories of all six children visiting me in our sole bathroom, which was about the size of an outhouse. What do you do when it seems Continue Reading

Homemade Dry Skin Cream with 3 Ingredients

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This highly effective cream for extra dry skin comes from my godmother. My husband and I use it all the time as a hand and body lotion. Very cheap to make ($6 per batch or about 13 cents per ounce), you can find the three generic ingredients at the dollar store. Because the recipe makes 3 jars, it's ideal for gift-giving. Make one for yourself and two for friends. The pale pink color is very pretty! Here are the ingredients you'll need, and the recipe: DIY Dry Skin Cream 13 oz. pure Continue Reading

Top 5 Potty Training Mistakes to Avoid

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I've potty trained four children (so far), and have possibly learned more than my children in the process! Here are a few mistakes you'll want to avoid: Don't be unrealistic. Start with a blank slate, if at all possible. Try to forget those "rules" you've always heard. "Girls are easier than boys," or "Children should be trained by two" or "Using cloth diapers will help them train earlier." Be careful about establishing timelines ("he's going to be trained by the time the baby comes") because Continue Reading

What is it Like to Have a Home Birth?

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Like me, you might be curious about giving birth at home. It's an option my husband and I have considered before. Our deliveries at the local birth center do offer a "home-like setting," but it's still not the same as bringing a baby into the world at your own house. I decided to interview my dear friend and neighbor who has lots of experience under her belt. You might wonder "who is a good candidate for home birth?" The general recommendations are: A mother with a healthy, low-risk Continue Reading