Many times it’s harmless. Not every new slang word or phrase is cause for suspicion, but sometimes, a pause is warranted. 

In the last couple of months, there’s been a few times my radar has gone off, and I’ve made a point to have a conversation with whoever is using it.

The goal isn’t to make them feel bad or judge who they heard it from, but to teach them to slow down, think things through, and learn how to filter what they hear through God’s Word.

So far, our conversations have gone well and they’re receptive once we break a few things down. 

In case anyone else finds themselves in the same boat, I thought I’d share how I handle talking through slang and why.

P.S. If these questions would be helpful for your family too, there’s a free printable waiting for you at the bottom of this post.

• What do you think this word or phrase means?
• Let’s see how the dictionary defines it.
• Does the definition line up with how the word/phrase is being used?
• If not, how is it being used?
• Are there any cultural implications with the word/phrase?
• Are there any spiritual implications with the word/phrase? 
• Based on what we’ve learned and talked about do you feel it’s wise to keep using it?

Let’s break this down a little more with the most recent slang word we’ve talked through: aura. 

What do you think this word or phrase means?

Their answer was no. They had no idea what it meant, but a lot of other kids were saying it. I like to take these opportunities to chat about whether it’s wise to say and/or do something just because someone else is doing it and/or because they wanted to fit in.

As adults, we have the foresight to know those actions can often lead to trouble and/or people pleasing traits. Hard things to break once patterns set in.

In our house, we like to encourage our kids to be ok with looking different. The entirety of Jesus’ ministry on earth was just that, being and doing things different – going against the grain. So we often have side conversations on how difficult this can be, how God knew it would be difficult for us, and that’s why His Word was given to us.

Let’s see how the dictionary defines it.

Merriam Webster Dictionary: 

1. noun: a distinctive quality or atmosphere that seems to surround someone or something; slang: the quality of being impressively cool, charming, or appealing 

2. Medical: a subjective sensation (as of voices, colored lights, or crawling and numbness) experienced at the onset of a neurological condition 

3. an energy field that is held to emanate from a living being 

4. a luminous radiation 

Merriam Webster Slang: 

‘Cool’ factor; star power; stylish swagger 

Where does aura come from?

The slang meaning of aura stems from the word’s sense meaning “a distinctive atmosphere or quality someone or something is felt to emanate”—that is, the energy or ‘vibe’ given off.

It spread online in the early 2020s, especially in reference to athletes exhibiting prowess in their sport. In summer 2024, aura went viral on social media, especially TikTok, often in connection to a video trend in which people playfully quantified how many so-called aura points someone gained or lost relative to variously smooth or awkward social scenarios.

Dictionary.com:

Mostly the same as Merriam Webster, but with this addition, “Classical Mythology: a companion of Artemis who bore twins to Dionysus. Zeus changed her into a spring because, in a fit of madness, she had killed one of her children.”

Urban Dictionary:

This is always an interesting one. People can add their own words. I didn’t show this to my child for that very reason. But, when looking up aura, most of the definitions were connected to life energy, spiritual beliefs, or a girl’s personality. It shows the trend.

Wikipedia: 

I take this site with a grain of salt, but it’s sometimes useful for learning how the modern world sees/uses the word. Here it’s defined with mostly paranormal/energetic uses.

Google Search:

Again, this is simply a reference, but sheds more light. 

“The word aura originates from the Latin aura, meaning “breeze” or “breath of air,” which was borrowed from the Ancient Greek aúra (αὔρα), signifying a “gentle breeze” or “soft wind.”…

In English, the term first appeared in the late 14th century with its literal meaning of a “gentle breeze.” Its figurative senses evolved over time, including “subtle emanation” in the 18th century, “characteristic impression” in the mid-19th century, and “spiritual energy field” in the late 19th century.”

Does the definition line up with how the original word/phrase is being used?

Some of the newer slang definitions, yes. The original definition, no. 

It’s not being used to indicate air qualities. 

To make sure we understand exactly what we’re saying and how it may come across to others, let’s take it a step further.

If not, how is it being used?

It might be easy to look at some of the definitions and say, “Oh, well they are using it sort of correctly, so that’s ok.” 

But here’s where I like to pause and help them think through: is what’s leaving our mouth actually pleasing and honoring to God?

Depending on the word, we may need to look beyond the modern slang definition and consider how the word has been used in other contexts and what it communicates to different people. 

We often do this in Bible studies, so why wouldn’t we slow down and do the same with the words coming out of our own mouths? 

From my own experience, especially knowing aura is sometimes used in other religious contexts, this was important.

I also feel it’s important to consider those around us. We live in an area that is diverse with many ethnicities and cultures being represented, so we can’t assume that just because a word means xyz to us it’s being used the same everywhere else.

Are there any cultural implications with the word/phrase?

I recently witnessed an example of something meaning one thing in one culture, but it was actually derogatory in another. It was a situation where many people from all over the world were gathered in one place.

A younger person was sharing a dance they created to a specific song. I’ve never heard the song before, so I don’t know the origin, but some of the lyrics were “pinky up”. Many of us laughed at the antics and enthusiasm. However, after the song, several people from one country explained pinky up (including the physical act of holding a pinky up) was the equivalent to our American version of the middle finger in their culture.

I’m sure that’s not what this young person intended, but it’s a prime example of how different things have different meanings to those with different cultural backgrounds.

I reminded my child of that example, in generic terms of how something meant to be harmless and fun could cause great misunderstanding. 

We also talked about how, depending on someone’s religious or spiritual background, the word aura may carry meanings very different from the slang our culture intends. 

Using it in front of someone who practices certain types of energy based healing, it could be seen as referencing their energetic field.

Are there any spiritual implications with the word/phrase? 

Based on the information learned so far, I shared that I didn’t feel comfortable using the word aura casually (as slang being taken out of context).

My child questioned this wanting to know more, which I actually loved because it gave us a chance to talk about what we know from the Bible.

We touched on I Peter 5:8 which warns us to be sober minded because the devil is roaring around looking for opportunities. If we are blindly repeating what others say and do, we’re bypassing our minds, assuming that our words and actions are ok.

In addition, we now know some of the usage of the word aura holds spiritual meaning, in ways not in accordance with God’s Word. Nowhere in the Bible does it reference people’s spiritual energy fields/auras and we know mythology is based on belief of false gods.

We also talked about how everything we do and SAY should be done for the Lord. (Colossians 3:17) 

As Christ followers, we are called to be set apart. Meaning we should act, think, and talk differently than the rest of the world. Our love for God should be constantly on display by honoring Him with literally every aspect of our lives.

Is that a high calling? Even for our young children? Absolutely! But this is where we show and model Philippians 4:13, acknowledging we’ll always fall short on our own (Romans 3:23), so we live set apart using Christ’s power in us.

We’ve also talked with our older children about how certain things can become opportunities for Satan and his evil forces to creep in. 

Although I’m sure my child’s intentions were pure in using the word aura, I cannot say the same for Satan. He will use anything and everything to create barriers in our relationship with God. 

I will never assume that just because someone does something out of innocence means they’re exempt from spiritual attack. I’ve personally witnessed too much, even in our home, to believe otherwise.

Here are some other verses that might be handy.

Proverbs 21:23 – “Those who guard their mouths and their tongues keep themselves from calamity.” 

Proverbs 18:21a – “The tongue has the power of life and death,” 

James 3:5-6 “Likewise, the tongue is a small part of the body, but it makes great boasts. Consider what a great forest is set on fire by a small spark.  The tongue also is a fire, a world of evil among the parts of the body. It corrupts the whole body, sets the whole course of one’s life on fire, and is itself set on fire by hell.” 

 Luke 6:43-45 –  “No good tree bears bad fruit, nor does a bad tree bear good fruit. Each tree is recognized by its own fruit. People do not pick figs from thornbushes, or grapes from briers. A good man brings good things out of the good stored up in his heart, and an evil man brings evil things out of the evil stored up in his heart. For the mouth speaks what the heart is full of.” 

In Titus 2:7-8, the apostle Paul was instructing Titus to show “soundness of speech” in his teaching so that no one would have anything bad to say about Christ followers. In a way, even our children are teachers because just as they look up to those older than them, younger siblings and friends are looking up to them.

Based on what we’ve learned and talked about, do you feel it’s wise to keep using it?

This is where I like to lean into teaching our kiddos to think both independently and critically.

Dependent thinking can lead to following the masses. Not looking at different angles can lead to an ignorance is bliss mentality. 

If we are to be sober minded, focused on pleasing the Lord, and setting a Christ-like example, it’s helpful to think and question. Especially when pertaining to worldly things.

So, we end our time together by assessing all that we’ve talked about and looking at it anew.

• What do you think now that we’ve looked into how the word is supposed to be used?
• Does using this word make you look smart or foolish?
• Is how this word is being used pleasing to God? 
• Is it possible someone else might misinterpret it and be hurt?
• Could using this word could point someone away from God or discredit your testimony?
• Any other questions?

Usually, it’s almost always felt that the slang word should not continue to be used.

And not because I led by sharing my opinion or bias. I try hard to leave that out and let the kids do the processing.

It’s always a humble reminder for me to not underestimate how God is working in their hearts.

When they ask what to do when people around them continue to use the word, I usually suggest they ignore it or respond with words they know and understand. 

It’s not our place to judge or parent other people. It’s our place to set the best example we can by living set apart.

Overall, this process isn’t really about one particular slang word. Next month there might be something new. My hope isn’t to create a growing list of words to avoid. Rather to teach my children how to thoughtfully evaluate what they hear through the lens of Scripture. 

It was recently brought to my attention that Jesus often answered questions with His own questions. Rarely, did He provide a straight out answer.

Likewise, this series of questions is meant to help my children do their own thinking.

I would much rather have these sometimes difficult conversations with my kiddos while they are young. It allows us to walk them through it and share our own mistakes.

More importantly, it helps them form thoughts/opinions/beliefs based on their own homework and God’s Word, not just someone else’s word.

Words still slip out sometimes when emotions are high (good and bad), but it’s usually followed by a quick look of chagrin letting me know it was an oops. 

At the end of the day, all of us are learning and trying our best together.

Keep These Questions Handy

If you think these questions might come in handy someday, I’ve put together a simple printable you can download below. You can also save the graphic to your phone for quick reference.

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The post Talking Through Slang: Teaching Our Kids to Think Biblically appeared first on Blooming Rock Homestead.

Once I started actually reading labels and looking into what flavoring was, I realized flavorings aren’t nearly as simple as they sound.

Artificial flavors.
Natural flavors.
Organic flavors.

I had to learn the differences and why they mattered. Since then, our family has chosen to avoid artificial flavors and be very selective about the natural flavors we allow in our home.

Let’s break it down.

What Artificial & Natural Flavors Actually Are

ARTIFICIAL FLAVORS

Artificial flavors are chemicals designed to mimic the taste of real foods. According to U.S. food labeling regulations, an artificial flavor is any substance added to food to create flavor that does not come from a natural source like fruit, vegetables, herbs, meat, or fermentation products.

In other words, the flavor didn’t start in nature. Scientists analyze the compounds responsible for a flavor, like strawberry or vanilla, and then recreate those compounds in a lab. This is why a product can taste like fruit even when the fruit itself is barely present or completely missing.

Food manufacturers use artificial flavors because they are: cheaper, more shelf-stable, and consistent in taste.

Another thing that surprised me when I started learning about flavorings is how little detail companies have to provide on the label. Flavor formulas are considered proprietary recipes, so manufacturers usually only have to list “artificial flavor” or “natural flavor,” not the individual chemicals inside the mixture.

Some consumer advocacy groups have also raised concerns about what’s often called the “GRAS loophole.” GRAS stands for “Generally Recognized As Safe,” and it allows certain ingredients to be used in foods without going through the same formal approval process as new food additives. In some cases, companies or industry groups can determine that a flavoring substance is GRAS based on existing scientific knowledge rather than direct FDA review.

For families who are trying to simplify ingredients, that lack of transparency is one of the reasons flavorings can feel like a gray area.

NATURAL FLAVORS

Natural flavors must come from real plant or animal sources, such as fruit, herbs, meat, or fermentation products. However, the final product can still include additional ingredients like solvents, emulsifiers, and stabilizers that help carry and preserve the flavor compounds.

So while the starting source may be natural, the final ingredient can still be highly processed. That’s why “natural flavors” on a label doesn’t necessarily mean the product is simple or whole-food based.

ORGANIC NATURAL FLAVORS

The type I’m most comfortable with is organic natural flavor, because organic standards place stricter limits on what can be used and how it’s made. 

According to the USDA National Organic Program, flavorings used in organic foods:

• Must come from natural sources
  
• Cannot use synthetic solvents or artificial preservatives
  
• Must meet organic certification standards
  

This doesn’t mean organic flavoring is perfect, but it generally means fewer synthetic processing chemicals and higher ingredient standards.

Potential Health Concerns With Artificial Flavors

Artificial flavors are considered safe at typical consumption levels, but diets built mostly on highly processed foods can lead to much greater cumulative exposure. Every person also responds differently. Some people tolerate them without issue, while others are more sensitive. Here are a few areas where sensitivities have been reported:

Headaches & Neurological Symptoms

Some flavor enhancers and artificial flavor compounds have been linked to:

• Headaches or migraines
  
• Dizziness
  
• Fatigue or brain fog
  
• Flushing or sweating
  

Certain flavor enhancers, like monosodium glutamate (MSG), have long been associated with these symptoms in sensitive individuals. Some families notice reducing highly flavored processed foods helps decrease recurring headaches.

Digestive Issues

Possible symptoms include:

• Bloating
  
• Gas
  
• Nausea
  
• Stomach pain or diarrhea
  

Allergic-Type Reactions

True allergies to flavorings are uncommon, but sensitivities happen. Some artificial flavoring mixtures include compounds that can trigger hypersensitivity reactions, especially in people who already have asthma or food sensitivities. Possible reactions may include:

• Hives or skin rashes
  
• Itchy throat or mouth
  
• Asthma-like symptoms
  
• Nasal congestion or sinus irritation
  

Behavioral Changes in Children

Some studies suggest certain artificial additives, including flavorings and colorings, may worsen symptoms of hyperactivity in some children. Possible signs parents sometimes notice include:

• Increased hyperactivity
  
• Difficulty focusing
  
• Mood swings
  
• Irritability
  

Rare Respiratory Issues

Certain flavoring chemicals used in food manufacturing have been linked to lung irritation when inhaled in high amounts. For example, the butter-flavor compound diacetyl has been associated with a severe lung condition called bronchiolitis obliterans (“popcorn lung”) among factory workers exposed to large quantities. This type of exposure is far higher than typical dietary exposure, but it highlights that flavor chemicals are biologically active substances, not simply harmless “taste.”

Where Flavors Hide and How to Spot Them

Flavors are sneaky. They don’t always show up as “artificial flavor” on the label. Sometimes, they’re hiding under other names or processing ingredients.

Here’s what to watch for:

Flavor Labels

• Artificial flavor – obvious, but still worth checking where it appears in the ingredient list
• Natural flavor – can still be highly processed; not automatically healthier
• Artificial vanilla, strawberry flavor, butter flavor, etc. – any flavoring ending in “flavor” can be lab-made

Common Additives That Often Signal Hidden Flavoring

Some additives aren’t flavoring themselves, but they’re used in flavor mixtures or to enhance taste.

Monosodium glutamate (MSG) and its cousins:

• Hydrolyzed vegetable protein (HVP)
• Autolyzed yeast extract
• Sodium caseinate
• Yeast extract: these are often added to give “umami” or savory flavors. 

Preservatives linked to flavor stability:

• Sodium benzoate
• Potassium sorbate

others

• Maltodextrin or dextrose: used to carry flavor compounds and make them stick.
• Artificial sweeteners or sugar substitutes: sometimes combined with flavoring to imitate fruit or chocolate.
• Flavor enhancers listed vaguely: “yeast extract,” “natural flavor,” or “spices.” These may contain hidden chemical flavor compounds.

Products Where These Often Appear

• Flavored snacks, chips, crackers
• Packaged baked goods (muffins, donuts, cookies)
• Breakfast cereals and bars
• Flavored yogurt, pudding, or non-dairy “milks”
• Instant soups, bouillon cubes, and packaged sauces
• Soda, fruit punches, and flavored sparkling water
• Condiments like ketchup, barbecue sauce, salad dressing

Practical Label-Reading Tips

• Shorter is usually better: fewer ingredients usually means less hidden chemistry.
• If it says “artificial flavor,” it’s almost always lab-made.
• Watch for MSG and its hidden names, especially in savory snacks and soups.
• “Natural flavor” is not automatically healthy. Check if it’s organic if that matters to you.
• Look for products that actually name the source: e.g., “vanilla extract” or “lemon juice” instead of just “flavor.”

What This Looks Like in Real Life

Our choices should never be based out of fear. Does this information make it harder to find certain foods? Yes, but it also helps us make healthier decisions. If food already has real ingredients that create flavor, why add a lab-made version?

For our family, this simply means we:

• Choose whole foods with ingredients we can pronounce and understand
  
• Avoid products with artificial flavors
  
• Be cautious with vague ingredients like “natural flavors”
  
• Prefer foods with organic flavors or simple ingredient lists
  

Sometimes that means making something at home, choosing a different brand, or doing without. Either way, I feel a sense of peace that I’m providing the best possible options for our family. 

How We Explain This to the Kids

When talking with our kiddos, I’ve found simple is best. 

• “We like to focus on foods God created and this food doesn’t have those.”
• “These ingredients aren’t found in nature and might make your body not feel good.”
• “Remember how you didn’t feel good after eating that? It could be because of the ingredients.”

You could also try these:

• “God made lots of different flavors in meats, fruits, herbs, and vegetables. People sometimes make flavors in factories.”
• “We choose foods that help your body feel calm, strong, and happy.”

If you have a child who is naturally curious and wants more information, explain how artificial flavoring affects the body in kid-friendly terms. 

Making Change Feel Fun, Not Restrictive

If you decide to reduce or remove artificial flavoring, the goal is not immediate perfection. It’s progress that feels sustainable for your family. Maybe that looks like removing sweetened drinks, skipping highly processed snacks, or choosing different brands.

One simple way to start is by turning the process into a game. Invite your kids to become “ingredient detectives” and look at labels together. You might point out words like artificial flavor, monosodium glutamate, or maltodextrin and ask, “Do you think this ingredient came from a plant or a factory?”  This helps turn the moment into curiosity.

For many families, it helps to think of this as a trial season, not a forever decision. You can simply say, “Let’s try this for a few weeks and see how we feel.” That kind of language takes the pressure off everyone.

If your kids enjoy visuals, a simple chart can be encouraging. Rather than tracking rules, track effort. A sticker or checkmark for each day on the calendar can help kids feel proud of their participation. Keep it light and celebratory. 

If a simple chart would be helpful, feel free to check out the Children’s Habit Helper Kit in the Freebie Library. Access is free to anyone who is part of my newsletter family.

When you put all of this together, the picture becomes clearer: artificial flavors are not just harmless additives. They are chemical compounds that interact with the brain, gut, and immune system in ways we are still learning to fully understand. 

For some children, the effects are subtle. In others, they are noticeable. For our family, that uncertainty alone was enough to choose a different path.

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The post Artificial Flavors Explained & Why Our Family Chooses to Avoid Them appeared first on Blooming Rock Homestead.

In the first post of this series, I simply told the story. In the second post, I shared some of the quieter aftermath — the lack of words, the pulling back, and the slow realization that I needed to bring my emotions to God instead of holding them in.

Now, looking back, I can see how God was strengthening something in me I didn’t even realize was weak.

This final post is about what He taught me in the process. I’ll reference parts of the injury and recovery, but gently.

Lean Into Laughter

At times, all I could do was laugh. The opposite was tears, and I was tired of those. Laughter truly is some of the best medicine.

The night of the accident, I will never forget running around the house and into the shop to find materials Jason could remake his temporary splint with. I’m pretty sure my eyes bulged when he first told me his plan. The splint dried in a way that left his wrist bent in a very uncomfortable, painful position.

I didn’t want him to be uncomfortable, but I was also exhausted, and adrenaline was still surging. I just wanted to sit down and try to process what the injuries meant. Instead, I was grabbing paint sticks, wood toy blocks, foam, and super glue. Have I mentioned he has a machinist background? Lol

At some point, I started laughing over the absurdity of it all and felt better.

The removable pins in his finger looked like big white bug eyes sticking out of his hand. It was unnerving at first, but with six weeks to go, we needed to adapt. After Jason made the first joke about them, it broke the ice for us to feel more relaxed in talking about the pins.

There were several points throughout where we just laughed about things. And maybe it wasn’t even about the accident, but about the kids doing something funny, or turning some issue with the house into a joke, perhaps even telling ourselves we would look back on this one day with humor or appreciate the unexpected way God chose to get our attention.

When you don’t know what else to do,  just try laughing. 

Healing Takes Time

Obviously physical healing of the injury takes time. However, the mental/emotional injury takes time to heal as well. In some cases, this may take even longer than the physical aspect. 

I can’t speak for Jason, but I can tell you I was a mess the first several weeks. The day after the accident, there was more tree trimming to do before equipment was returned. As helpers made the first pull of the chainsaw, I almost lost my breakfast. It was too much, too soon, and yet I knew it needed to be done.

It was very hard to get my body to re-regulate. I physically felt a tension, similar to an adrenaline rush, for a long time. It left me tired, snappy, and stressed.

When the removable pins got infected and the antibiotics made Jason sick, it was like my body started processing the initial injury all over again. Just after the soft cast was removed, I felt all sorts of unpleasantness over the visual reminders he would always have. 

During therapy the progress seemed slow, and I became nervous. His hand was still swollen a month later and nothing seemed to help reduce it permanently. It was a relief to discover a possible cause, (Some of the flesh on the biggest laceration was too mangled to use. This meant the surrounding skin had to be pulled unnaturally tight to close.) We were grateful to know how to work with it, but I’ll admit, it made me squeamish to massage the scar tissue at first.

As December approached, I could feel my body was holding onto things. Even though the pins had been removed, stitches were gone, and skin was healing, something inside me was hanging on.

I was reminded of something I learned years ago in Bessel Van der Kolk’s The Body Keeps the Score — that our bodies hold onto trauma in all sorts of fascinating and frustrating ways.

So, I began to pray that God would help release whatever was needed.

Trauma: Big T, Little t

As I waited to see how God would work, I reminded myself it was ok to call what I was experiencing trauma. I didn’t at first, because it felt dramatic and silly.

I recently read a description of trauma that made a lot of sense to me. No, he didn’t lose his hand, he didn’t die, he didn’t spend weeks in the hospital – those could be considered Trauma with a big “T”. 

However, that doesn’t negate that what happened was still a huge event for him, for me, our kids, that our lives were altered, and that my body was struggling to process – those could be called trauma with a little “t”.

We don’t always get to choose how our body responds to stress. God answered my prayer of release in a few different ways.

I have always been a visual person. One thing I struggled with specifically, was vivid recalls of certain moments flashing before my eyes.

As I was getting ready one morning, pictures of Jason stumbling through the field kept surfacing. My body reacted just as it had the night of the accident — but it ended with dry heaving. Although I found this unusual, I felt emotionally lighter, and it hasn’t happened since.

Another morning I was reading my Christmas Advent devotional. It had beautiful watercolor artwork throughout. This particular day the artwork was dark red peonies. My mind automatically flashed to the crimson stains on clothing and towels that shouldn’t have been. I sat in the chair with tears streaming down my face for a couple of minutes. Again, it felt unusual, but I felt another level of lightness.

I thought I was doing pretty good until I decided to share some of this story and sat down to write. My entire body tensed, hands felt shaky, stomach turned, it was like a small current of energy thrummed through my body. 

It was then I knew putting this on paper would also be part of my healing process. And it has been. Each time I’ve sat down to write, those physical feelings have abated. The visual slideshows have significantly decreased and I feel more at peace.

Trust Is a Choice

Perhaps the biggest thing God revealed to me in all of this, was that I needed to make a choice. I could continue to question and doubt and spiral, or I could toss those thoughts aside, and choose to trust Him.

For me, that was hard.

On many levels, I knew I needed to lean into my faith. But man was that difficult.

For a couple months, it felt like things just kept falling further apart. Despite my prayers, the prayers of others, and the work put forth. 

Somedays, I actually asked God if He was still for us. 

Deep down, I knew the answer. Of course He was. Many times throughout the Bible we’re reminded God will never leave us or forsake us. 

And so, I had to constantly make a choice. 

Would I choose to trust God, His plan, His timing? Or would I choose to muster through on my own fleeting strength? 

Let me tell you, the latter just led to a deeper, darker pit.

I had to bring myself to a place of truly surrendering any outcome and letting go of any semblance of control to fully trust God.

Was it scary at times? For sure! But there was also this sweet sense of comfort.

Even when it makes the least sense and requires great effort, choosing to trust God has always brought me closer to Him.

Friends, thank you for being here and allowing me further healing by sharing this story with you. I hope something here has been helpful for you.

I continue to be amazed at God’s grace and provision as we keep taking small steps forward. 

Life looks different, but in a good way. God knew what Jason and I needed, and while the circumstances were not what I would have chosen, I am thankful, because I have definitely grown closer to the Lord through it all. 

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But honestly, if you would have asked me how I felt about my faith the first two months, I’m not sure how I would have answered. 

Was God still good? For others, yes. For me (us), it didn’t seem like it.

It was an exhausting time of trying to manage the kids’ emotions and reactions, figuring out how best to support Jason, starting our homeschool year, finishing up the gardens, and starting and finishing the fall beef harvest on the farm.

Then there was deciding how to notify business customers that there would be a major delay – all on top of the normal day to day “mom” things. 

There wasn’t much bandwidth for quiet time, let alone my morning walks with God in the woods, which has always helped ground me.

Many days, I was happy to put the kids to bed without breaking down in front of them (doing it in private felt safer.)

For a while it felt like blow after blow. 

While Jason was in recovery after his surgery, I heard the dreaded words no one wants to hear. I was anticipating them since surgery went longer than expected. But it was still a sucker punch to hear, “I’m sorry, unfortunately there was more damage than we thought.” 

The room tilted as I held my breath, realizing I would have to be the one to break it to Jason when he woke up. Not one or two, but four tendons had been severed, which explained why he could only move his thumb. Some of them rolled back quite a ways, so the incision went farther up his forearm and wrist than planned. 

The removable pins portion of surgery went well and everything was stable there.

Therapy was required and would start after the soft cast came off, with an anticipated recovery of six months.

Now, Jason works with his hands in just about every aspect of life. At his regular job, he works with machines and does machinist things. His side business is custom wood working. We live on a farm with animals, in an older house. Hands are a necessity.

It was hard to imagine what life, let alone finances, would look like with this setback.

As I struggled to process the eight million things going through my mind (normally just one million), there were a few things I found helpful.

It’s Ok Not to Have Words

I became really good at saying something to the effect of, “I’m not sure.” As a logistical planner, who thrives on organization and researching to have sound answers, this was completely new and hard for me.

Our lives were filled with so many well intentioned people, who truly cared, that questions became inevitable no matter where we went. 

But the honest truth was – I didn’t always have an answer. 

When would daddy get better? Why did this happen to daddy? Why is daddy groaning? What is this discharge? Should we go back in? Is this a normal reaction to antibiotics? When will the orders be ready? How will these outdoor projects get wrapped up before winter? What happens if the short-term disability doesn’t cover monthly costs?

At first, I felt guilty not having solid information to share. Especially to the kiddos who were looking to me to have it together, to help them process, and to say everything would be ok. 

Would it all be ok? Yes. I just wasn’t sure when or how.

Somewhere along the way, I came to grips with not having all the answers. Once I let my desire to be in control and know the plan fall to the way side, providing vague answers stopped bothering me as much.

Even so, I eventually became burned out and withdrew.

It’s Ok to Withdraw – For a While

As a mom and wife, I felt a certain sense of pressure to always be on/available, to maintain the status quo in the house. 

As a Christ follower attending church, I gave polite, standard answers. Yes, we were doing fine. Yes, we’re thankful it wasn’t worse. Yes, we’re managing. 

As a family member, I shared more information, but it was usually about Jason and the kids. 

As a friend, I didn’t have much energy left, so I began avoiding tough (for me) conversations and deflecting. Then, I started giving them the same rote replies I gave others. 

Withdrawing for a time is helpful – if it’s done thoughtfully – but I was on the verge of the opposite.

It took a couple of weeks for me to realize I wasn’t balancing the withdrawal well. Soon, my plain Jane answers were being given to everyone, even the kiddos.

Two of my close friends were the first to notice. Pulling away from the safe space they offered was rather silly. I didn’t have to pretend with them, have all the answers, or look put together. I could just be and they would accept it.

So why was I withdrawing from people who just wanted to lift me up?

In a way, I think I was in some sort of self-preservation mode. 

But I was also re-learning how to take my heaviest emotions to God.

Feelings to God First

On the scant mornings I was able to get a walk in, they looked extremely different. 

Gone was the litany of praises, seeing God in nature, tears of joy, praying with the cattle, and coveting the whisper of wind in my hair.

Instead, angry words filled the air, tears of despair fell, prayer felt flat, and the inevitable gloomy skies on those days wrapped me like a cloak.

I had a lot to tell God.

The accident itself was enough. So what was with the continuing fall out? 

Lord, don’t you remember I had a conversation with Jason literally the night before his accident that I wanted our lives to slow down? That there was too much? That I needed a break?

Some break you gave me!

There was the gut wrench when the soft cast was removed and we saw the lacerations along with the incisions for the first time since surgery. A railroad track is what came to my mind.

Then, the right pin on his finger got infected. After going back and forth for a few days an antibiotic was prescribed. 

The antibiotic made Jason extremely sick. He lost what energy he did have along with 10 pounds in two days. 

When that one seemed to clear up, the left pin got infected.

Therapy was progressing slowly. 

Finances grew thinner.

Why God, why?

In my exhaustion and frustration, I had forgotten to talk with God. Sure, I was “talking at” him, but I was often too spent to pause and listen for a response. 

What I shared with God was ugly and raw. I’m so thankful He’s a gracious, forgiving and loving Father. I’m also thankful I didn’t spew all those words to anyone else.

In the following weeks, as life developed a new cadence, I was able to squeeze in more walking and something started to change.

I’ve been through enough counseling to know it’s not healthy to hold things in. 

And God knew what my heart was really feeling anyway, so why hold back?

The more I was completely honest with God, the easier the conversations became. They slowly turned from angry lashed out words, to desperate pleas for help, to noticed surroundings, to offers of gratitude. 

Once I got to the point where I could see God’s provision for our family, my relationship with Him made new strides.

Things were not wrapped up with a pretty pink bow yet, but it was easier to trust God again. 

With that, the real rebuilding could begin.

In the final post for this story, I’ll share what God taught me. I won’t say healing is complete yet considering how my body has reacted to just writing these posts. 

However, God is good and I have faith in Him and His timing.

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That was me last August. 

*Before you continue reading, just a heads-up that this story touches on a traumatic season in our family, including injury and emotional struggle. I’ve shared honestly, but with care and without graphic detail.

What started as a project day full of excitement because we had “big equipment” home and were taking care of a problem tree turned into catastrophe in the final stretches.

This was not any tree. We think it was on the property from the beginning. Over 130 years ago. The soft maple, over five feet in diameter, had been losing life for a while. Just a couple months prior, a two foot thick limb broke off and landed where we parked our vehicles.

By God’s grace, my SUV was in the autoshop otherwise it would have been totaled (never so thankful for a repair bill). The truck had several new dents, dings, and a few missing trim pieces, but was still operable.

That was “the last straw,” so we arranged to rent some equipment, gathered some helping hands, and planned to remove the offending maple tree.

The day had been progressing well and everything was running smoothly. Some new friends stopped by and the kids were enjoying play time in the back yard. The monstrous maple was gone. It was pretty much hollow inside, and boy, did the front yard look different!

There were a few other branches in the same area, not nearly as high to trim up, so the guys moved ahead to the next spot, just next to the pasture. 

Up went the basket, trimmed a branch, used hand signals to direct positioning, trimmed another branch, more hand signals. 

Then like some nightmare the entire lift tipped forward in slow motion – with my husband in the basket, not realizing what was happening.

By the time he turned around to question the positioning of the basket, it was too late.

From where I was standing, I couldn’t quite see all that transpired next. 

Just a sinking feeling in my gut after realizing he hadn’t been able to jump off soon enough. 

The kids saw everything and ran away screaming.

I started to run forward, saw Jason stumbling through the field, his right hand holding onto his left in an unusual way, gray face, crimson fabric and liquid in places it shouldn’t be.

A helping neighbor got to him faster, so I hightailed it into the house to gather:

• my purse & phone
• towels (grabbed a kitchen one, chucked it on the floor, this called for a bath towel)
• apple (anticipating a blood sugar cash, funny what you think of)
• water (couldn’t easily grab one, moving on)

My hands were trembling profusely as I slid into the driver’s seat, fumbling to grab the phone out of my purse so the person riding with us could call ahead. 

Jason asked if I was ok to drive. I paused, asked God to be my hands and feet and tossed my phone in the back. I pulled into reverse with steady hands, and focused on listening to his breathing to mitigate hyperventilating if needed, which it was. (Jason mentioned later that my years racing were not lost. It might have been noted I was cresting three digits on some corners. It’s amazing how your brain flips a switch.)

The next several hours were a blur between waiting, poking and prodding, x-rays, me praying Jason wouldn’t pass out, me walking away so I wouldn’t toss my cookies, more waiting, lots of questions. 

What happened? Short story- the full weight of everything (basket, boom, lift itself) had crushed his left hand in a way that bent his wrist into an unnatural position.

Could he move all his fingers? No. Only his thumb.

Was there feeling in all the fingers? Yes, praise God!

Did we know what the white thing sticking out of the wrist laceration was? Yes – we’ve butchered enough animals to know it was a tendon.

Could we guess the finger was broken? Yes – the open laceration there made it fairly obvious.

There’s also a bone chip missing on the ulna. Ok.

Did we understand a specialist would probably be needed and we’d be sent home with superficial stitches just to keep things together enough? Um, yep.

Ok, then, they’ll call you sometime Monday to schedule an appointment. Super.

Amazingly, no other bones were broken, just massive amounts of swelling and bruising.

The initial appointment with the specialists went much the same. It was obvious one tendon was severed. Exploratory surgery could be an option if we wanted it, which we absolutely did since he still couldn’t move the majority of his fingers. 

We went home and waited another couple days for surgery, praying for minimal damage and quick recovery.

Although this was probably the tip of the iceberg, it didn’t feel as hard as what followed after surgery five days later. That’s really where the anchors of my faith were tested.

It’s really easy to claim we have faith and demonstrate it when life’s waters are placid. 

It’s a whole nother thing, when rippling waves emerge and then turn into crashing tidal waves.

I’m not sharing this story for pity or personal attention. If anything, you’ll see how I fell short in many ways.

But I do want to draw attention to God and His presence, which prevented me from drowning.

Being on the other side now, there are several things I’d love to share with you that helped me along the way. Things that made holding onto faith through trauma a blessing in disguise for me.  

In the next couple posts, I’ll share the various stages of emotional healing I went through, how all of this ultimately strengthened my faith, ways I saw God provide, and why I waited a while to share this story. 

Thank you for allowing me this space to share!

P.S. If you don’t want to miss the next posts, you’re welcome to join our newsletter family. I’ll also be sharing them on Facebook.

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The post Holding Onto Faith: The Story appeared first on Blooming Rock Homestead.

When our oldest was first born and battling food sensitivities, I drastically changed my diet. For a season, it consisted mostly of meats, vegetables, and fruits. A natural byproduct of eating this way was that processed foods became very limited.

As we learned more about processed foods, the kinds of ingredients they often contain, and how little nutrition they offer, it became easier to step away from them.

Over time, we discovered enough through both research and experience to decide that artificial food dyes were not something we wanted to include in our diets.

Even though our children have never had them, I understand why many parents may choose to minimize their use or eliminate food dyes altogether. For us, the potential side effects were enough that we did not want to experiment and find out firsthand.

In this post, we will take a closer look at what artificial food dyes are, how they can affect the body, and how to talk about them with your kids in a way they can understand.

*This blog post contains various health information. Nothing is intended to be, nor should it be construed as, medical advice, diagnosis, or treatment. Any supplement(s) and/or treatment(s) discussed and/or listed should be reviewed by your health professional before using. If you have a medical concern, please consult with an appropriately-licensed physician. If you think you have a medical emergency, contact your doctor immediately. Full medical disclosure here.

What are Artificial Food Dyes, Really?

Artificial food dyes are synthetic chemicals, most commonly made from petroleum (crude oil). In the lab, they are transformed through a chemical process called aromatic sulfonation, which attaches special chemical groups to molecules so they dissolve in water, bind to foods, and stay bright even after cooking or long storage. This makes candy, cereals, snacks, and even some medications vividly colored, but it also means these dyes are highly processed chemical compounds that never existed in nature and provide no nutrition.

Even though the FDA has approved nine synthetic food dyes for use in foods, drugs, and cosmetics, for our family, the potential side effects outweigh any benefit. Simply knowing that these colors start as petroleum and go through chemical transformations before ending up in foods helped us decide to avoid artificial food dyes entirely.

Here are the nine FDA-approved synthetic food dyes in the U.S., with the most common first:

• Red 3 and Red 40
• Yellow 5 and Yellow 6
• Blue 1 and Blue 2
• Citrus Red 2
• Orange B

These dyes are found in candy, cereals, snacks, frosting, juices, sodas, flavored waters, and other brightly colored processed foods. They can also sneak into items you might not expect, like packaged sauces, fruit snacks, gelatin desserts, and even some breakfast bars.

How Artificial Food Dyes Affect the Body

There are a few adverse effects on the body that make it worth avoiding artificial food dyes. A couple of friends saw real changes in their children’s behavior after removing red dyes from their diets, so it truly does matter.

A review published in the National Library of Medicine explains that: “The molecules of synthetic colorants are small, and the immune system finds it difficult to defend the body against them. They can also bond to food or body proteins and, thus, are able to act in stealth mode to circumvent and disrupt the immune system. The consumption of synthetic food colors, and their ability to bind with body proteins, can have significant immunological consequences. This consumption can activate the inflammatory cascade, can result in the induction of intestinal permeability to large antigenic molecules, and could lead to cross-reactivities, autoimmunities, and even neurobehavioral disorders.”

Let’s break this down a little!

The nervous system and behavior

Multiple studies suggest that artificial dyes may influence brain chemistry and nervous system activity, especially in sensitive children. Red 40 has been associated with histamine-related reactions and changes in brain signaling in some studies. This could contribute to:

• Restlessness or impulsivity
• Hyperactivity
• Difficulty focusing
• Mood swings
  

Even in adults, some people report heightened anxiety or irritability after consuming artificial dyes. 

When someone eats a brightly dyed snack, their brain and body may react like they’ve been given a chemical stimulant – even though it’s not caffeine. 

Gut and immune system impact

The gut and brain are closely connected. Artificial food dyes can interact with the gut microbiome, the community of bacteria in our digestive system.

 In other words, emerging research suggests that synthetic dyes may:

• Alter the balance of gut bacteria, favoring strains linked to inflammation
• Trigger low-level immune responses in sensitive individuals
• Contribute to digestive discomfort

Physically, this may look like:

• stomachaches or nausea
• skin reactions (rashes, eczema, hives)
• headaches or migraines
• worsened symptoms in kids with sensitivities

This gut-immune-brain connection helps explain why some children experience mood changes or hyperactivity after consuming dyes. When the gut is irritated, for any reason, overall health is affected. For children especially, these small things can cause bigger disruptions.

Metabolism and Detox Pathways

Our liver and kidneys work to filter chemicals from our bodies. Artificial food dyes are foreign compounds that the body has to metabolize and excrete. Repeated exposure can:

• Add stress to detox pathways
• Create byproducts that may increase oxidative stress
• Increase overall inflammatory signaling
  

While occasional exposure may be handled well by most adults, children and sensitive individuals or those with weakened immune systems may respond more noticeably.

If you’re curious what each individual food dye has been linked to, the Center for Science in the Public Interest has put together this easy-to-read list of the nine most common artificial food dyes.

Nutritional Value of Artificial Food Dyes

This one is pretty easy to answer. There is no nutritional value in artificial food dyes. They don’t nourish the body and exist purely for appearance.

Foods with synthetic dyes are often:

• highly processed
• high in sugar
• low in vitamins and minerals

By avoiding artificially dyed foods, we naturally move toward:

• simpler ingredients
• whole foods
• colors that come from fruits, vegetables, and spices

If a food needs chemicals to look appealing, it’s probably not something our bodies truly need.

Safety Concerns & Global Differences in Regulation

While artificial dyes are legal in the United States, several of them are restricted or require warning labels in other countries.

For example:

• In parts of Europe, foods with certain dyes must carry warnings about possible effects on children’s behavior.
• Some dyes used in the U.S. are banned or limited elsewhere.
• Certain artificial food dyes have been linked to genotoxic effects in lab studies, meaning they can potentially affect DNA at high doses.

Research within the U.S. has also raised some concerns. The Environmental Working Group, a consumer advocacy organization, notes:

“These chemicals were last reviewed by the FDA decades ago, some as early as 1969. Other dyes linked to health harms have not been reviewed in more than 40 years. Reevaluation by the FDA is not required, even when new evidence points to potential health hazards.”

A review published in the National Library of Medicine reported that the amount of artificial food colors certified by the FDA increased more than 5-fold from 1950 (12 mg/capita/day) to 2012 (68 mg/capita/day).

California’s Office of Environmental Health Hazard Assessment (OEHHA) also found that:

“All of the FDA’s Acceptable Daily Intake levels (ADIs) for synthetic food dyes are based on 35- to 70-year-old studies that were not designed to detect the types of behavioral effects that have been observed in children. Comparisons with newer studies indicate that the current ADIs may not adequately protect children from behavioral effects. For some of the dyes, these comparisons indicate that updated levels would be much lower.”

When you put all of this together, it’s hard not pause. For us, it felt wise to lean toward caution and choose simpler, more natural foods.

How We Explain This to Our Kids

Our choices should never be based out of fear. Is this information alarming? Yes. But instead of letting it disarm us, we should let it arm us to make informed decisions.

When talking with our kiddos, I’ve found simple is best. 

• “We like to focus on ingredients God created and this food doesn’t have those.”
• “These ingredients aren’t found in nature and might make your body not feel good.”
• “Remember how you didn’t feel good after eating that? It could be because of the ingredients.”

You could also try these:

• “God made colors in fruits and vegetables. People made colors in factories.”
• “We choose foods that help your body feel calm, strong, and happy.”
• “Sometimes bright colors can make your body feel too jumpy.”

If you have a child who is naturally curious and wants more information, explain how artificial food dyes affect the body in kid-friendly terms. 

Family-Friendly Cookbook

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Making Change Feel Fun, Not Restrictive

If you decide to reduce or avoid artificial food dyes, the goal is not perfection. It’s progress that feels doable for your family.

Maybe that looks like: removing sweetened drinks or brightly colored snacks or alluring cereals or sourcing different supplements.

One simple way to start is by turning the process into a game rather than a strict rule. Invite your kids to become “ingredient detectives” and look at labels together. You might point out words like Red 40, Yellow 5, or Blue 1 and ask, “Do you think this color came from a plant or a factory?”  This can help turn the moment into curiosity.

It also helps to bring kids into the conversation. Rather than just taking foods away, talk about why you are making changes. You might share that some foods help our bodies feel calm and steady, while others can make them feel a little too jumpy. When kids understand the why, they are often more open to the change.

For many families, it helps to think of this as a trial season, not a forever decision. You can simply say, “Let’s try this for a few weeks and see how we feel.” That kind of language takes the pressure off everyone.

If your kids enjoy visuals, a simple chart can be encouraging. Rather than tracking rules, track effort. A sticker or checkmark for each day on the calendar can help kids feel proud of their participation. Keep it light and celebratory.

make wins visible & fun!

Children’s Habit Helper Kit

Encourage your kids to build healthy habits, try new routines, and set goals. This kit includes a weekly wins chart, a 30-day challenge, and a 12-week habit tracker, perfect for tracking progress and celebrating together. Grab your copy in the Freebie Library!

When you put all of this together, the picture becomes clearer. Artificial food dyes are not just harmless colors. They are chemical compounds that interact with the brain, gut, and immune system in ways we are still learning to fully understand. For some children, the effects are subtle. For others, they are noticeable. For our family, that uncertainty alone was enough to choose a different path and avoid artificial food dyes.

Have you noticed any effects from artificial food dyes in your family? I’d love to hear your experience in the comments.

The post Why Our Family Chooses to Avoid Artificial Food Dyes appeared first on Blooming Rock Homestead.

His body reacted finicky even to good, nutritious food. By this time, we had already overhauled our diet for our oldest due to food sensitivities. Digestive enzymes helped, but only temporarily, and the sensitivities would always return. It was frustrating.

As I learned more about gut healing, and how GAPS was designed specifically to repair the inner lining of the digestive tract, meat stock and bone broth emerged as a cornerstone of the approach.

I also discovered that broth-making isn’t one-size-fits-all. The type of bones used and the length of cooking time affect how the body responds, which is why GAPS recommends two different preparations for different stages of healing.

No matter which one you choose to make, both meat stock and bone broth contain incredible health benefits.

Much of what follows is drawn from Gut and Psychology Syndrome by Dr. Natasha Campbell-McBride, MD, and The Heal Your Gut Cookbook by Hilary Boynton and Mary G. Brackett.

Affiliate disclosure: Some links in this post are Amazon affiliate links. If you purchase through them, I may earn a small commission at no extra cost to you.

*This blog post contains various health information. Nothing is intended to be, nor should it be construed as, medical advice, diagnosis, or treatment. Any supplement(s) and/or treatment(s) discussed and/or listed should be reviewed by your health professional before using. If you have a medical concern, please consult with an appropriately-licensed physician. If you think you have a medical emergency, contact your doctor immediately. Full medical disclosure here.

Meat Stock: Purposeful, Early-Stage Healing

This preparation is typically used during early gut healing because it is gentler and less stimulating for sensitive systems. Meat stock is prepared using bones that still contain meat, connective tissue, and joints, such as knuckles, chicken legs, thighs, feet, or joint bones from larger animals. These stocks are cooked for a relatively short period of time, which significantly affects their biochemical profile.

Because meat stock is not cooked long enough to fully extract large amounts of free glutamates, it tends to be better tolerated by individuals with compromised gut and neurological function, which is common in those beginning GAPS.

Note: Glutamic acid is a naturally occurring amino acid that plays an important role in brain and nervous system function.

Why Shorter Cooking Matters

During prolonged cooking, certain amino acids, particularly glutamic acid, convert into free glutamates. In sensitive individuals, these can overstimulate the nervous system. By limiting cooking time, meat stock provides nourishment without overloading a system that is already stressed.

GAPS-Specific Use

In the GAPS protocol, meat stock is introduced early because it supplies gelatin, minerals, and amino acids in a form that is gentle, reparative, and less inflammatory. It is intended to be consumed as a complete meal, including:

• the broth
• the vegetables
• the meat removed from the bones
• softened cartilage and connective tissue

When we first began, pureeing the entire pot and drinking it made this much easier and more digestible. It is a little thicker in consistency than broth, and I’ll admit, it was not my favorite. Often, I used it as a base for soups to hide the texture. If there were times I didn’t want to blend all the tissue, I would simply strain the stock.

Suggested Cooking Times

• Poultry: 1.5–3 hours
• Beef, bison, lamb: up to 6 hours (slightly longer in a slow cooker)

Bone Broth: Deep Extraction and Structural Repair

This preparation is more concentrated and is often better tolerated after some gut healing has taken place. Bone broth is made using bones with little remaining meat, such as marrow bones, and is cooked for an extended period – typically 24 to 48 hours. This long simmer allows for maximum extraction of minerals, collagen, and amino acids from the bones.

The resulting broth is richer, more concentrated, and often gels when cooled due to its high gelatin content.

Amino Acid Considerations

Bone broth contains significantly higher levels of the amino acids glycine and proline, which play an important role in connective tissue repair, joint health, and skin integrity. However, it also contains higher levels of glutamic acid and free glutamates.

For some individuals – particularly those prone to seizures, tics, ADD/ADHD, autism spectrum conditions, or autoimmune disorders – this concentration can aggravate neurological symptoms if introduced too early. 

Note: GAPS recognizes the close relationship between the gut and the brain. When the gut lining is compromised, compounds that would normally be regulated can enter the bloodstream and affect neurological function. For this reason, bone broth is often better tolerated after initial gut healing has begun.

I made meat stock for several months before making bone broth. When I introduced it, we started by drinking smaller amounts (half a coffee cup), but quickly moved up to whole cups. Soon, I was using it as an entire soup base and we drank it regularly as if it were tea.

Why Gelatin Is Central to Gut Healing

One of the most powerful healing components found in both preparations is gelatin, derived from joints, knuckles, and connective tissue. Gelatin plays a critical role in repairing and protecting the mucosal lining of the digestive tract.

This lining acts as a selective barrier, allowing nutrients to pass through while preventing toxins and pathogens from entering the bloodstream. When it is damaged, systemic inflammation and neurological symptoms often follow.

A well-made broth that gels when cooled indicates sufficient gelatin content. This “jelly-like” consistency is something to be celebrated and a sign you’re on the right track.

The Role of Marrow

Marrow bones contribute additional healing properties. As marrow breaks down during cooking, it releases compounds that support immune function, cellular repair, and mineral absorption.

I intentionally scoop out and consume the marrow when possible. Over time, I’ve noticed tangible improvements in skin health and joint comfort, an observation that aligns with traditional use and modern understanding of connective tissue nutrition.

How I Make It

The process for making either meat stock or bone broth is simple once you’ve done it a few times. The main difference lies in the type of bones used and the length of time they’re simmered.

1. Put bones in a pot and add enough water to cover them with an additional 2–3 inches.
   
2. Add 1/4 cup raw apple cider vinegar and let sit for 30 minutes. This helps minerals leach out of the bones.
   
3. Bring to a boil. Skim off any “scum” that rises to the surface. If left in, it can impart a sour taste.
   
4. Add coarsely chopped vegetables, such as celery, onion, and carrots.
   
5. Reduce heat to a gentle simmer and cook for the desired amount of time.
   
6. Add fresh herbs, such as thyme, rosemary, or bay leaves, during the last hour of cooking. This makes all the difference in the world.
   
7. Once done, cool slightly and strain.
   
8. Pour into glass mason jars and add Celtic sea salt (we use 1 tablespoon per half gallon).
   
9. Refrigerate. (Optional: broth can also be canned or frozen in freezer-safe containers.)
   

Ideally, there will be a nice fat cap to seal in the stock or broth until ready to use, though a lid is still needed on the jar. If a fat cap is present, it can be stored in the refrigerator for a couple months.

Once the fat cap is broken and the broth is exposed to air, it should be used within 5–7 days. If using after the fat cap is broken, simply bring it to a boil, discard any scum, and use.

Aside from drinking it hot as you would tea, we love using this as a base for soups and stews, and to cook rice and gluten-free noodles.

Tips

• Any kind of pot can be used: stainless steel, Dutch oven, or crock pot. We use a large 16 qt. stainless-steel pot. Try to avoid non-stick varieties if possible.
  
• Make large batches if using it to heal the body (drinking throughout the day). Our pot makes approximately 2.5 gallons of broth, which lasts us about three weeks, or two weeks if we make more soup.
  
• Fresh herbs should be wrapped in cheesecloth or an herb basket for easy removal, as they do not soften enough to eat.
  
• Try to find a good, reliable source for your bones. Local grocery stores are fine, but they won’t have the same nutritional profile as grass-fed or organic sources. Get to know local farmers or visit farmers’ markets for better options.
  
• If you want to add fresh garlic bulbs (lots of health benefits), do not add them until the last 30 minutes of cooking. The flavor develops quickly and can easily take over the broth—ask me how I know! ?

If You Don’t Have Time to Make Broth

If making broth from scratch isn’t realistic right now, there are high-quality options available. I’ve listed a few below that I feel comfortable recommending, along with tips on what to look for when purchasing broth.

What to Look for in a Store-Bought Broth

When choosing a stock or broth to purchase, prioritize the following:

• Bones listed as a primary ingredient (not just “natural flavors”)
  
• No yeast extract, MSG, or “flavor enhancers”
  
• Simple ingredient lists (bones, water, vegetables, vinegar, herbs, salt)
  
• Grass-fed or pasture-raised sources, when possible

Brands I’ve Found to Be the Best Options

These are products I’ve personally used and feel comfortable recommending based on ingredient quality, preparation method, and taste:

• Kettle & Fire Chicken Broth
  Why I like it: slow-simmered, organic, free-range bones, minimal ingredients
  
• Kettle & Fire Beef Broth
  Why I like it: slow-simmered, organic, grass-fed beef bones, minimal ingredients
  
• Pacific Foods Organic Chicken Bone Broth With Sea Salt
  Note: The Organic Chicken Broth version from this brand uses “broth” and “chicken flavor,” so I only use this specific one.

Broth has become a staple in our home not just for its taste, but for how it supports healing from the inside out. What started as a necessity for my middle child’s digestive health has grown into a practice we all rely on for nourishment and comfort.

Whether you start with a simple meat stock, dive into bone broth, or keep a few trusted store-bought cartons on hand, every cup is a step toward stronger gut health, resilience, and wellbeing.

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Encouragement for Faith & Everyday Life

Life can feel full with faith, health, home, and all the small things in between. The newsletter is a simple way to stay connected through new blog posts, encouragement, occasional shop news, and free tools that support intentional, everyday living.

A glimpse of the free tools

The post Two Ways to Make Nourishing Broth: Meat Stock, Bone Broth, and Why Both Matter appeared first on Blooming Rock Homestead.

Let us hold unswervingly to the hope we profess, for he who promised is faithful.

Hebrews 10:23

Have you ever caught yourself questioning God’s faithfulness? Maybe it was an unanswered prayer, a series of unfortunate events, or unresolved personal turmoil. Whatever caused it, I’m sure it left you feeling raw and perhaps even a little uneasy.

That happened to me this fall. I can still remember feeling physically whiplashed when God responded to a thought running through my mind.

A couple weeks after Jason’s accident I was exhausted for a variety of reasons. Not only was I processing my husband’s injury and trying to maintain normalcy for the kids, but my dad was also in and out of the hospital. 

There was the upcoming school year to prepare for, vegetable produce to gather, beef harvest to coordinate, and several outdoor projects that needed to be wrapped up without my strong hubby’s help.

During that time, there were moments when it was difficult to talk with friends and family. I felt joy for their successes, fun trips, and beautiful renovations. Honestly though? It was hard to stomach those moments when I was thankful to make it through the day without breaking down in front of my children.

One morning, after hearing about another answered prayer for a friend, these words flashed through my mind: Well, even though our life is a gigantic mess right now, at least God is faithful to others.

When God is Faithful to Everyone Else

If you’ve walked through a situation where you felt gutted and left wondering what’s next, you might be nodding your head right now. 

As someone who’s known about Jesus her whole life and lived through His redemptive work, I immediately felt chastised for my thought as God stirred uncomfortable emotions.

“Do you really think I pick and choose who I am faithful to? Do I have favorites? Or only have so much faithfulness allotted? Are you sure I’m only faithful to you sometimes? Perhaps in your exhaustion, you’ve stopped noticing me.”

I’m thankful God’s reply was cloaked in love. There was no guilt trip. Just a feeling of warmth and comfort, as if a parent was tipping their child’s tearstained face up to theirs.

My Heavenly Father expanded my tunnel vision to see the extraordinary ways He was and is providing for us. 

1. Jason’s hand was still attached. Amen!
2. Although there was much work to be done, Jason’s parents live nearby and stepped up in big ways to help.
3. The windows may not have gotten replaced, but they still kept the rain and snow out.
4. My dad had more testing to do, but each one got him closer to a diagnosis.
5. The gardens looked a little wild, and also like nutritious homegrown produce to fill the cellar.

For each groan I lifted up to God, came a gentle whisper of provision and assurance.

He hadn’t forgotten me, or my family, at all. It wasn’t that He was only faithful to some and not others. In the busyness of those days, I had forgotten how to fight for sacred time with God in His Word.

My prayers were still being delivered, heard, and answered. I just didn’t have a clear vision of how God was working for our good – because it looked different than how I pictured it.

Ways to Recognize God is Faithful to All

It can be hard to drown out the distractions that attempt to block our direct line of sight with God, especially when life is chaotic. Many things that truly need to be tended to, demand our time and attention.

This is why it’s so important to carve out time to seek God. Especially in hard seasons. Even more important, is to make a point to be still and listen for God’s response.

As Christ followers, our Heavenly Father desires to lavish us with love. (I John 3:1-2) He does not withhold faithfulness on purpose. He waits in the heavenlies, for us to look up, call out, and surrender ourselves to Him.

Part of surrendering to Him requires us to lay down what distracts us from Him.

Scripture offers the following encouragement when we wonder if God is faithful.

Those who know your name trust in you, for you, Lord, have never forsaken those who seek you. Psalm 9:10

Yet this I call to mind and therefore I have hope: Because of the Lord’s great love we are not consumed, for his compassions never fail. They are new every morning; great is your faithfulness. Lamentations 3:21-23

Know therefore that the Lord your God is God; he is the faithful God, keeping his covenant of love to a thousand generations of those who love him and keep his commandments. Deuteronomy 7:9

How I Remind Myself God is Faithful

I am certainly not perfect, but here are a few helpful habits that help keep my mind and heart in check when I start to doubt God’s faithfulness.

Morning devotional time

Full disclosure! These are simply my goals. As a busy mom, I have had to adjust priorities and responsibilities to make this happen. There is grace on the days I’m not able to fit this in. However, I am deeply blessed and feel a God-given readiness on the days I can. An added bonus is the example we set for our children when they see us making time to know God intimately.

• Let the Bible/devotion be the first thing I read for the day
• Spend time in prayer, starting with praise
• Allow a few quiet moments after reading and praying to hear God

Practice Gratitude

This may seem like a given, but as I shared above, sometimes our vision of God gets clouded when under great pressure. When this happens, grab a sheet of paper and a pen, and come up with 3 things you can be thankful for. 

Consider how you’ve seen God provide:

• resources (financial/material/connections)
• health (healing/diagnosis/forward movement)
• Family, friends, community
• Knowledge, wisdom, peace. laughter

Keep A Soft Heart

If we read further in Deuteronomy 7, we see another way to keep our eyes open to God’s faithfulness. 

Verses 11 and 12 say, “Therefore, take care to follow the commands, decrees and laws I give you today.  If you pay attention to these laws and are careful to follow them, then the Lord your God will keep his covenant of love with you, as he swore to your ancestors.”

I have learned the following “states of heart” are a surefire way to miss God’s grace and goodness: 

• Distracted
• Hardened
• Unrepentant
• Disobedient
• Ungrateful

Oftentimes, this looks like praying specifically to confess. When we choose to live apart from God, we don’t see His faithfulness as clearly. Sin, no matter the type, equals separation from our Heavenly Father. I’m so thankful for John’s words in I John 1:9 that remind us God is faithful to forgive and cleanse us when we approach Him with a contrite heart.

Father, I pray you be with the ones who are feeling weary and wondering where you are. I know you will meet them in sacred spaces to reveal exactly how you’ve been faithful. Thank you for grace and mercy undeserved as we walk this world trying to stay in step with you. We praise you for being the one and only faithful God, who answers our prayers. Please keep our tender hearts soft and our vision clear as we seek to know you better. In your name we pray, Amen.

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At the time, we were mitigating food and environmental stressors with our oldest child. As a first time mom, worn down from a baby who cried two thirds of the day, navigating brands and their parent companies wasn’t on my radar.

It wasn’t until after our second child was born and their health issues were leveled did I become aware that some of the natural brands I was purchasing weren’t independent. Rather they were owned by larger (sometimes well-known) companies. Unfortunately, those companies didn’t exactly align with our values, represent a healthy, holistic image, or offer much transparency. 

Now, that alone doesn’t mean the products themselves are “bad”, but for me it caused a pause. As a small family farm, I know what a blessing it is to receive local support. But I also know the constraint of needing to stick within budget. 

When I was able, I took the time to research some of the natural brands I was using. Sometimes, friends farther along in their health journey had answers, sometimes it meant doing some digging online, and sometimes it was just frustrating.

It can be really hard to juggle stewarding health, finances, and values. As I continued to learn, I tried to be intentional about where I spent our dollars. I wanted to offer healthier products to my family, support independent companies with honorable intentions when able, and not blow our finances.

The following guide is simply to help you make informed decisions that align with what’s most important to you. 

Quick Note on Stewardship

I mentioned earlier that balancing stewardship of multiple things can be challenging. God has convicted me that choosing what we put into our bodies and use around our homes is part of stewardship.

Scripture reminds us:

So whether you eat or drink or whatever you do, do it all for the glory of God.

I Corinthians 10:31 NIV

This doesn’t mean every decision needs to be perfect. I would love to have a house full of small independent brands based on integrity. But our budget would be pressed too thin, and on occasion, some natural products didn’t perform as well with well water. 

Just do the best you can with what you’ve got. Pay attention, ask questions, do research, advocate for better options, and offer yourself (and others) grace when choices are limited.

Difference between Large Corporations, Private, and Independent

Large Corporations typically own multiple brands across various industries (sometimes hundreds). Decisions are often centralized: marketing, sourcing, product strategy, and pricing may be controlled at the corporate level. Some brands are able to maintain their original formulas and practices, so looking for transparency is key.

Privately held companies are not publicly traded and the shares are owned by founders, family members, private investors and/or equity firms. This doesn’t indicate who controls the decision making, values, formulations, or whether investors influence the brand.

Independent companies are usually founder-led or family-owned. This means there is no controlling stake by larger conglomerates, which provides greater autonomy over sourcing, formulations, long-term decisions, and overall mission. However, “independent” is not a legal designation.

• Conglomerate-Owned – part of a larger corporation (e.g., Unilever, Nestlé, General Mills)
• Publicly Traded – shares sold on stock exchange; financial priorities may influence decisions
• Privately Held – not publicly traded; ownership may vary
• Independent / Founder-led – mission-driven, privately held

How To Use This Natural Brands & Ownership Guide

If this seems overwhelming or stressful, here is your gentle reminder to pause and breathe. My top tips are listed below. In addition, feel free to save or print this PDF Natural Brands & Ownership Guide for personal reference.

• Start with one category at a time
• Support independent companies when able
• Don’t make decisions based on fear
• Pray over information gleaned
• Listen to the Holy Spirit’s guidance

Independent Natural Brands

These companies are currently independently owned. Ownership can change over time, so it’s helpful to check a brand’s status periodically, especially if independence is important to you. This list can serve as a starting point as you explore brands that align with your values.

Supplements

• RidgeCrest Herbals
• Gaia Herbs
• WishGarden Herbs
• Pure Synergy
• Earthley Wellness

Personal Care

• Fatco
• Toups & Co Organics
• Rowe Casa Organics

Household Cleaners

• Branch Basics
• Meliora Cleaning Products
• Truly Free
• Biokleen

Foods

• Siete Foods (independent at time of writing)
• Primal Kitchen (acquired by Kraft Heinz. Included here because many assume it’s still independent)

If you’re wondering where to begin, I’ve shared more detailed looks at the natural personal care and makeup products I’ve personally used and trusted over time, as well as a simple peek inside the natural remedies we keep on hand in our own home. Those posts are meant to offer real-life examples and encouragement as you apply this guide in practical ways. Use what feels supportive right now, and return to the rest when and if it’s helpful. Small, intentional steps still matter as you care for your home and family.

Stay Connected!

Encouragement for Faith & Everyday Life

Life can feel full with faith, health, home, and all the small things in between. The newsletter is a simple way to stay connected through new blog posts, encouragement, occasional shop news, and free tools that support intentional, everyday living.

A glimpse of the free tools

The post A Guide to Natural Brands and Their Ownership appeared first on Blooming Rock Homestead.