Ground turkey was once a no go in our house.
Chris Marts 
A Less Magical Christmas Season
Our annual trip to the Carmel Christkindlmarket didn’t go as planned this year — but the detour reminded us what family traditions are really made of.
Worst Purchase of 2025
While shopping at Sam’s Club today, we wandered past the washers and dryers. I paused, looked at one of the models, noted the price, and said out loud, “I wish we bought this instead.” And just like that, our worst purchase of 2025 came rushing back.
Not Dieting, Going Mediterranean
In our long quest to lose weight and be healthier, Cherokee and I have tried some different diet approaches.
Beef and Barley Soup
Somehow I had never tried barley before making this soup. Now I’m a believer (cue the music!).
Buy It For Life: Why Durable Beats Disposable
We live in a world where most things are designed to break. Phones slow down after a couple of years, shoes wear out faster than they should, and kitchen gadgets seem to fall apart right when you need them. That’s where the Buy It For Life (BIFL) mindset comes in. …
Coverage, Kids, and Cost-Cutting: Our Family’s Cell Plan Shuffle
Switching phone plans is an easy way to save substantial money.
Taco Tequila’s: As Good As It Sounds
Most restaurants have names that evoke images of kind old ladies or exotic locales. Grandma Joys? You know that’ll have good home cooking. Amosami conjures images of little espresso cups with rich desserts in Italy.
Date Night: Visiting Big Thorn Farm and Brewery
Regular date nights are a must for Cherokee and me.
More Than Just Chores: Teaching Responsibility to Children
With five kids and a busy schedule, everyone needs to pitch in around the house. This is how we’ve went from a circus to a routine.