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  • Home
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    • All About Kristin
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    • Privacy Policy
  • Lifestyle
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    • Beekeeping
    • vTOS
      • My Journey with vTOS
      • vTOS Update
      • vTOS Surgery Update Part 3
      • vTOS Surgery Update Part 4
    • Lifestyle YouTube Vlog
    • My Favorite Things!
    • Our Home Remodel!
    • Real Estate/Property Management
      • Airbnb
    • DIY
    • Gardening
    • Organizing
    • Green Cleaning
    • Frugal Mama
  • Recipes
    • Meal Planning Sunday
    • Sourdough
    • Keto
    • Carnivore
    • Harvest Freeze Dryer
    • Breakfast
    • Fit Snacks
    • Smoothies
    • Lunch
    • Dinner
    • Recipe Cuisines
    • Recipe Cooking Methods
    • Recipe Search
    • Dessert
    • Recipe Dietary
    • Party Food
    • 12 Days of Cookies
  • Fitness
    • Free YouTube Workouts
    • LES MILLS On Demand
    • Core
    • Free Challenges
    • 30 Day Challenges
      • BACK TO YOU CHALLENGE
      • FREE 21 Day Les Mills OnDemand Challenge!
    • Bikini Challenge!!
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Blog, Dinner, Fitness, Holiday's

Healthy Easter Recipes

Healthy Easter Recipes Easter is here! Below are a few healthy dishes you can include in this year’s Easter dinner. What are your plans and traditions for Easter? We usually do…

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April 1, 2017
Blog, Finances, FIRE

Our Journey to Financial Independence

This is going to be a bit of a different blog series then I normally write. But I wanted to share this journey with you! Our journey to financial independence…

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March 19, 2019
Blog, Finances, FIRE

Tracking Our Spending!

Do you track your spending? For years we had a budget, but we would never really tracked our spending. Anyone else? ??‍♀️ We just spent what we spent and on…

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May 23, 2019
Blog, Dinner, Instant Pot, Kitchen Tools, Lifestyle, Recipes, Redux

My Favorite Kitchen Tool~ Instant Pot

My Favorite Kitchen Tool ~Instant Pot My favorite kitchen tool as of right now is my Instant Pot!  I had been wanting an InstaPot for a while. Watching all my…

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January 22, 2018
Chickens
Chickens
Lifestyle
Lifestyle
Recipes
Recipes
  • Star Princess Cruise

    May 19, 2026 / 0 Comments

    Celebrating our anniversary on the beautiful Star Princess! 9 days of sea days, stunning Caribbean ports (St. Thomas, St. Maarten & Grand Turk), Thermal Spa relaxation, casino fun, and unforgettable memories. Full day-by-day recap!

    read more
    Kristin McConnell

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    April Diffuser Blends

    April 2, 2019

    Day 1 BOGO OnGuard and Breathe

    November 19, 2018

    A Quick Fireplace Wall Refresh: From White to Grey

    December 28, 2019
  • Ultimate Grocery Shopping Guide 2026: Simple Tips to Save Money, Eat Healthier, and Shop Smarter

    March 11, 2026 / 0 Comments

    Grocery shopping hasn’t changed much in the basics—tempting aisles, confusing labels, and the constant pull toward processed foods—but tools like delivery services have made it easier to stay focused on real, nutrient-dense foods. Whether you’re walking the store perimeter or using something like Walmart+ for occasional free delivery convenience (on orders $35+, same low prices), the goal remains the same: shop smarter, prioritize whole foods, and come home with exactly what fuels your body best. These updated tips build on what worked back in 2018 and help you win every trip. Check that blog here. Your GAME PLAN for Grocery Shopping Break It Down by Category Focus on quality over…

    read more
    Kristin McConnell

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    Today’s BOGO! Buy a bottle of Cardamom and get Cilantro for FREE!!!

    February 22, 2018

    Women’s Christmas Gift Guide

    December 17, 2019

    Ziplock Bag Organizing

    January 23, 2023
  • Grow a Thriving Indoor Jungle: Happy Happy Houseplants’ New Plant Food Lineup Revealed

    January 29, 2026 / 0 Comments

    Discover Happy Happy Houseplants' newest plant food lineup: Root Revival Serum, Foliage Fix shine, Soil Detox & Gnat Goodbye traps. My go-to for lush, thriving houseplants! Save 10% with code LIVESIMPLYWITHKRISTIN #HouseplantCare

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    Kristin McConnell

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    Squat Press Twist

    May 29, 2019
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    December 10, 2020
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    Daily Affirmations

    February 8, 2020
  • Life Update: Fully Moved Out—Camper Life & A Simpler Season

    January 27, 2026 / 0 Comments

    After three contracts fell through and eight months of waiting, we didn't wait for closing—we moved out, sold all our furniture, gave away the chickens, and downsized into our camper. Each 'no' brought us closer: decluttering, buying the camper, then fully letting go. Trusting Proverbs 3:5-6 that He makes our paths straight, even in the detours. Hello, lighter loads and new adventures!

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    Kristin McConnell

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    Tune Up Your Body

    August 16, 2018

    Free 7 Day Green Smoothie Challenge

    May 24, 2017
    Getting Started with Backyard Chickens, everything you need to know! www.livesimplywithkristin.com

    Getting Started with Backyard Chickens!

    February 14, 2023
  • Fresh Coops, Happy Flock: Discover the Power of GrubTerra Coop Refresher

    September 15, 2025 / 0 Comments

    Keep your chicken coop fresh and odor-free with GrubTerra Coop Refresher! Available in Mint or Rosemary Thyme, this all-natural deodorizer neutralizes odors, absorbs moisture, and extends bedding life for up to 15 weeks. Safe, non-toxic, and eco-friendly—perfect for backyard poultry! Shop now at https://bit.ly/GrubTerraKristin #ChickenCoop #BackyardChickens #GrubTerra #SustainableFarming

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    Kristin McConnell

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    Hugelkultur: German-style Raised Garden Beds

    May 19, 2018

    Cyber Monday Sale!!!

    November 27, 2017

    SpŌIL Yourself With doTERRA

    September 8, 2018
  • Airbnb Cleaning Tips: Elevate Your Hosting Game with Extra Touches

    September 12, 2025 / 0 Comments

    Elevate your Airbnb hosting with these essential cleaning tips! Learn how to make your space spotless and welcoming with our guide on deep-cleaning, fresh linens, and high-touch areas. Plus, add those extra special touches like folded toilet paper and towel art for a truly memorable guest experience.

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    Kristin McConnell

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    October 22, 2024

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    January 16, 2025
  • How to Hatch Eggs with a Broody Hen

    August 22, 2025 / 0 Comments

    Learn how to hatch eggs with a broody hen in this step-by-step guide! From choosing fertile eggs to caring for newborn chicks, discover the natural way to grow your flock. Check out my first hatching experience for more tips! #ChickenKeeping #BroodyHen #HatchingEggs

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    Kristin McConnell

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    No, Spend Month

    July 1, 2019
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     Day 4 of 12 Days of Cookies

    December 14, 2019
    It’s been said that failing to plan is planning to fail, so let’s make a plan together! Having healthy meals on hand doesn’t have to be complicated. www.innovativehealthfitness.com

    MAKE-AHEAD MEAL PREP TIPS & TRICKS

    October 8, 2021
  • Being Too Lenient with Tenants: How to Enforce Rent and Lease Agreements

    August 21, 2025 / 0 Comments

    Being too lenient with tenants can cost landlords thousands in unpaid rent and property damage. With 17 years of experience as a landlord and property manager, I’ve seen how permissive policies lead to financial strain. In one case, a tenant lived rent-free in exchange for maintenance, only to invite five others to stay, causing chaos. In another, a single mom racked up $5,000 in unpaid rent due to unchecked leniency. Learn how to enforce lease agreements effectively with clear rules, consistent consequences, and professional strategies to protect your investment while maintaining compassion. #LandlordTips #PropertyManagement

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    Kristin McConnell

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    Grow a Thriving Indoor Jungle: Happy Happy Houseplants’ New Plant Food Lineup Revealed

    January 29, 2026
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    Butter Garlic Herb Sourdough Recipe

    January 23, 2025
    Meal Planning Sunday! Easy and quick meals your family will love! Helping you take back your time! www.innovativehealthfitness.com

    Meal Planning Sunday #23

    November 22, 2020
  • Homemade Chicken Enchilada Recipe

    August 18, 2025 / 0 Comments

    Ready to elevate your Mexican night? Dive into this irresistible homemade enchilada sauce recipe, featuring the smoky kick of baked hatch green chilies! Rich, tangy, and customizable, this sauce is perfect for slathering over enchiladas, layering in a beefy casserole, or stuffing into sweet potatoes. With easy steps and freezer-friendly storage, it’s a game-changer for busy weeknights. Check out our creative dinner ideas and get cooking! #EnchiladaSauce #MexicanRecipes #HatchChili

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    Kristin McConnell

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    July 18, 2019

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  • My Chickens Are Obsessed with GrubTerra Black Soldier Fly Larvae!

    August 12, 2025 / 0 Comments

    My flock went wild when I introduced them to GrubTerra Black Soldier Fly Larvae! These sustainable, protein-packed treats are a game-changer for backyard chickens. Packed with protein and calcium, they’re perfect for healthy feathers and strong eggshells. Plus, they’re eco-friendly, aligning with our simple living ethos. Watch my hens cluck with joy and discover why GrubTerra is now a coop staple! [Read more or watch the video for the full scoop!]

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    Kristin McConnell

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    December 1, 2020
    Foam rolling is a great way to loosen up anything that becomes tight from your workouts (or from life). Keeping muscles loose keeps you performing optimally and prevents injury. ww.livesimplywithkristin.com

    How to use a Foam Roller

    September 5, 2021
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    February 18, 2018
  • How to Freeze-Drying Fresh Herbs with a Harvest Right Freeze Dryer

    August 11, 2025 / 0 Comments

    Discover the ultimate way to preserve your garden’s fresh herbs with a Harvest Right freeze dryer! In this step-by-step guide, I’ll walk you through harvesting vibrant herbs like basil, thyme, and rosemary, preparing them for freeze-drying, and storing them for year-round flavor. With the Harvest Right freeze dryer, you can lock in the taste, aroma, and nutrients of your homegrown herbs, ensuring they’re as fresh as the day you picked them. Ready to transform your herb garden? Check out my full guide and explore the Harvest Right freeze dryer! #FreezeDryingHerbs #HerbGardening

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    Kristin McConnell

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    November 2, 2024
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    DIY Sleep Roller Blend

    March 8, 2019

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    December 12, 2024
  • How to Make a Simple DIY Bee Watering Station

    April 23, 2025 / 0 Comments

    Give your backyard pollinators a safe place to hydrate! In this episode of Bee Wednesday, we’re sharing a simple, budget-friendly DIY Bee Watering Station using a shallow saucer, a focal rock, and affordable glass gems. It's a quick 5-minute project that adds a pop of color to your garden while protecting your bees from drowning.

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    Kristin McConnell

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    Bee Wednesday Ep. 6: Hive Buzzing with Action! (Spotting the Queen and Finding Queen Cups)

    April 9, 2025

    First Queen Cup Surprise & Finding the Queen (1-Month Update)

    April 2, 2025

    🐝Backyard Beekeeping for Beginners: Inspecting the Hive and Checking the Super

    March 26, 2025
  • Bee Wednesday Ep. 7: Double Queen Cups & Honey Gold!

    April 16, 2025 / 0 Comments

    In this week’s hive inspection for Bee Wednesday (Episode 7), we tackle some major colony milestones and a little bit of backyard hive drama! From finding unexpected double queen cups to spotting the queen surrounded by vibrant yellow pollen, the bees are keeping things busy. Plus, we check in on our honey super and get a look at some gorgeous, shimmering capped honey that means harvest season is right around the corner!

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    Kristin McConnell

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    Bee Wednesday: Our Very First Hive Check & Expanding the Hive! 🐝✨

    March 12, 2025

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    April 23, 2025

    Prepping My First Beehive & Installing the Nuc! (Episode 1)

    March 5, 2025
  • Bee Wednesday Ep. 6: Hive Buzzing with Action! (Spotting the Queen and Finding Queen Cups)

    April 9, 2025 / 0 Comments

    Get an inside look at a packed hive inspection! In this week's Bee Wednesday, we're diving into the boxes to spot our green-dotted queen, examining the difference between nectar and capped honey, and handling a surprise discovery: hidden queen cups.

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    February 19, 2025

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  • First Queen Cup Surprise & Finding the Queen (1-Month Update)

    April 2, 2025 / 0 Comments

    One month into the beekeeping journey and the hive is absolutely buzzing! In this week's hive inspection, we're lighting up the smoker with a secret fuel combo, witnessing the magical moment of baby drone bees being born, spotting the elusive queen, and dealing with our very first queen cup surprise. Here is what a peek inside a thriving colony looks like after four weeks.

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  • 🐝Backyard Beekeeping for Beginners: Inspecting the Hive and Checking the Super

    March 26, 2025 / 0 Comments

    Welcome back to Bee Wednesday! In Episode 4, we’re diving into our third official beehive check. Today is a major milestone for our backyard hive: we’re checking on the honey super for the first time to see how our bees are building out their comb and managing their space. Whether you’re a beginner beekeeper or just love watching a thriving hive, join us as we smoke the hive, inspect the frames, and look for signs of a healthy colony!

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    Kristin McConnell

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    Second Beehive Check: Honeybee Progress & What to Look For

    March 19, 2025
  • Second Beehive Check: Honeybee Progress & What to Look For

    March 19, 2025 / 0 Comments

    Welcome back to another episode of Bee Wednesday! If you’ve been following along, we recently installed our new honeybee colonies, and today it’s time for our second official hive inspection. Regular hive checks are crucial, especially in the early weeks, to ensure the colony is thriving, building out comb, and—most importantly—rearing new generations of bees. Let’s dive into what we found during this week’s check and what you should be looking for during your own inspections! Prepping the Hive and Staying Calm Before opening up the colony, it’s always important to fire up the smoker. A little bit of cool smoke helps calm the bees by disrupting their alarm pheromones,…

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  • Bee Wednesday: Our Very First Hive Check & Expanding the Hive! 🐝✨

    March 12, 2025 / 0 Comments

    Suited up, smoker lit, and hive tool in hand—we officially tackled our very first beehive check! Opening the hive for the first time was an absolute whirlwind of excitement, but the real magic was seeing just how busy our workers have been. To keep up with their rapid growth and prevent swarming, we officially expanded their living quarters this week by adding a brand-new deep box and a honey super. Click through to see exactly what we found inside, how our queen is doing, and the step-by-step process of scaling up the bee yard!

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    April 16, 2025
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Kristin McConnell

Hi!! I’m Kristin, the heart behind Live Simply with Kristin. 
As newly empty-nest empty nesters, Ryan and I sold it all and live full-time in our cozy camper—trading big house stress for simple joys, freedom, and adventures together.
Here, I share wholesome recipes that fit tiny spaces, fitness tips to stay strong on the go, small-space living hacks, and the beauty of intentional, less-is-more living. Grateful you’re along for the ride—let’s keep it simple and joyful! 
🩷 ✝️

Happy Happy Houseplant

https://happyhappyhouseplant.com/livesimplywithkristin

Recent Posts

  • Star Princess Cruise
  • Ultimate Grocery Shopping Guide 2026: Simple Tips to Save Money, Eat Healthier, and Shop Smarter
  • Grow a Thriving Indoor Jungle: Happy Happy Houseplants’ New Plant Food Lineup Revealed
  • Life Update: Fully Moved Out—Camper Life & A Simpler Season

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