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  • Home
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  • All About Kristin
    • All About Kristin
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    • Privacy Policy
  • Lifestyle
    • Travel
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    • Beekeeping
    • vTOS
      • My Journey with vTOS
      • vTOS Update Part 2
      • 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!!
  • Shop
Blog, Essential Oils, Fitness

15 Top Uses for Frankincense

  Frankincense, Often called the “king of oils,” Frankincense promotes feelings of peace and overall wellness when used aromatically, while topical and internal uses provide modern health benefits. 15 Top…

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November 26, 2018
Blog, Fitness

5 Ways to get back into a workout routine

Have you been feeling like you are in a workout funk?  Bored of doing the same things day in and day out?  Well that’s totally normal!!!!  It happens to us…

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November 28, 2018
Blog, Dinner, Meal Planning Sunday

Meal Planning Sunday #27

I hope these recipes help you plan your meals for the week! Copy my menu each week or create your own! If you missed last weeks click here. If you…

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March 14, 2021
Blog, DIY, Home Tour, Lifestyle, Remodel

DIY House Number Planter Sign!

I have a fun DIY project for you today! When we bought our house it didn’t have any house numbers. After living here for some time when I would have…

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July 15, 2021
Travel
Travel
Lifestyle
Lifestyle
Recipes
Recipes
  • Caribbean Princess

    Back-to-Back Cruise: Our 14-Day Adventure

    September 1, 2026 / 0 Comments

    This 14-day back-to-back cruise was the ultimate baby step into our full-time travel journey! Two whole weeks, two consecutive itineraries, and complete freedom to soak up the sun, explore Caribbean ports, and embrace life at sea. From snorkeling with stingrays at Princess Cays and discovering hidden beach spots in Amber Cove to high-stakes casino wins, formal nights, and nightly The Love Boat marathons in our cabin, every day was a new adventure. If you've ever wondered what it's really like to stack two cruises back-to-back—including how turnaround day actually works, navigating port delays, and picking up insider cruise hacks along the way—here is the complete play-by-play of our two-week escape!

    read more
    Kristin McConnell

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    Meal Planning Sunday #36 Easy and quick meals your family will love! Helping you take back your time! www.livesimplywithkristin.com #mealplanning

    Meal Planning Sunday #36

    June 20, 2021
    Paleo Fudge Cappuccino Crinkles

    Day 7 of 12 Days of Cookies

    December 17, 2019

    Bee Wednesday Ep. 1: Prepping My First Beehive & Installing the Nuc!

    March 5, 2025
  • Bee Wednesday Ep. 14: 🐝 Harvesting 22 Pounds of Raw Honey (Without an Expensive Extractor!)

    July 22, 2026 / 0 Comments

    Learn how we harvested 22 pounds of raw honey at home without an expensive extractor using a simple crush-and-strain method and a clever $0 frame board hack!

    read more
    Kristin McConnell

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    Bee Wednesday Ep. 8: How to Make a Simple DIY Bee Watering Station

    April 23, 2025

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

    April 9, 2025

    Bee Wednesday Ep. 5: First Queen Cup Surprise & Finding the Queen (1-Month Update)

    April 2, 2025
  • 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!

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    Kristin McConnell

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    5 Reasons to Eat More Pumpkins

    October 2, 2015
    Meal Planning Sunday #34 Easy and quick meals your family will love! Helping you take back your time! www.innovativehealthfitness.com #mealplanning #keto #carnivore #carnivorediet

    Meal Planning Sunday #34

    June 6, 2021
    New Year New You

    New Year, New You Challenge

    January 3, 2020
  • 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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    My Journey with vTOS Part 4 www.innovativehealthfitness.com

    vTOS Surgery Update Part 4

    June 22, 2022

    March Diffuser Blends

    March 12, 2019
    DIY-Sleep-Roller-Blend bottle with pick rose

    DIY Sleep Roller Blend

    March 8, 2019
  • Honey Harvest & Winter Hive Prep | Bee Wednesday Ep. 13

    March 11, 2026 / 0 Comments

    As temperatures drop, it's time to wrap up the beekeeping season! Join me in Bee Wednesday Ep. 13 as we inspect hive health, spot our marked queen, harvest gorgeous capped honey frames, and pare down the hive setup to keep our bees cozy, fed, and prepped for the cold months ahead.

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    Kristin McConnell

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    Bee Wednesday Ep. 14: 🐝 Harvesting 22 Pounds of Raw Honey (Without an Expensive Extractor!)

    July 22, 2026

    Bee Wednesday Ep. 3 Second Beehive Check: Honeybee Progress & What to Look For

    March 19, 2025

    Bee Wednesday Ep. 1: Prepping My First Beehive & Installing the Nuc!

    March 5, 2025
  • 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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    Going out for dinner? Read this FIRST

    June 20, 2017

    FAT LOSS FRIENDLY CHILI

    February 5, 2016
    Welcome to my first Q & A health and fitness edition. I am answering all your health and fitness questions. www.innovativehealthfitness.com

    Q & A Health & Fitness Edition

    April 16, 2021
  • 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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    September 21, 2018
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    December 21, 2018

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    October 31, 2017
  • Interior photo of a modern MSC World America balcony cruise cabin featuring a large bed, seating area, and glass doors leading to an ocean view balcony.

    MSC World America Balcony Cabin Tour: Can a Family of 4 Actually Fit Perfectly?

    October 31, 2025 / 0 Comments

    Packing four people—especially when your "kids" are actually young adults—into a single standard cruise room can sometimes feel like a recipe for chaos. But on our recent trip aboard the beautiful MSC World America, we put one of their balcony cabins to the test. With a 6-foot son and a 5'10" daughter, we were skeptical about how the space would work. The verdict? It was an absolute game-changer. From the genius bunk-bed couch setup to clever storage hacks, here is exactly how we maximized every square inch without ever feeling cramped!

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    Kristin McConnell

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    Chicken & Spinach Bake

    May 12, 2016

    Getting Started with Backyard Ducks!

    February 21, 2023

    Honey Harvest & Winter Hive Prep | Bee Wednesday Ep. 13

    March 11, 2026
  • 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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    November 10, 2019

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  • 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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    January 16, 2025

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    October 22, 2024
  • 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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    Pomegranate Margaritas

    May 5, 2017
    Lemongrass

    Top 10 Uses for Lemongrass

    March 1, 2019
    Wonderful Pistachios

    Wonderful Pistachio Roasted Bacon Brussel Sprouts

    February 9, 2018
  • Bee Wednesday Ep. 12: The Time I Dropped a Frame! 🐝 Drop Disasters & Queen Spotting

    August 21, 2025 / 0 Comments

    Hive inspections don't always go according to plan! Join me in Bee Wednesday Ep. 12 as I do a full hive check, spot capped honey and baby brood, find two queen's cups, catch baby drones emerging... and inadvertently drop a heavy frame right into the hive! Here’s what happened next and how the bees handled it.

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    Kristin McConnell

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    Bee Wednesday Ep. 5: First Queen Cup Surprise & Finding the Queen (1-Month Update)

    April 2, 2025

    Honey Harvest & Winter Hive Prep | Bee Wednesday Ep. 13

    March 11, 2026

    Bee Wednesday Ep. 3 Second Beehive Check: Honeybee Progress & What to Look For

    March 19, 2025
  • 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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    Holiday Party Guide: Hosting Like a Pro This Season!

    December 11, 2024

    Smoked Turkey and Avocado Roll

    May 3, 2016

    5 Reasons Why It’s Important to Strengthen Your Core

    September 8, 2015
  • 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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    SPICY EGG MUFFINS

    May 3, 2017

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    January 6, 2018
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    October 4, 2020
  • 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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    November 4, 2019

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  • 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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  • The Ultimate 5-Minute DIY Wasp Trap (That Keeps Your Bees 100% Safe!) Ep. 11

    June 18, 2025 / 0 Comments

    Want to eliminate wasps without harming your honeybees or garden pollinators? Learn how to make a 5-minute, budget-friendly DIY wasp bait using boric acid and fruit juice that targets the nest safely and effectively!

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    Bee Wednesday Ep. 1: Prepping My First Beehive & Installing the Nuc!

    March 5, 2025

    Bee Wednesday Ep. 7: Double Queen Cups & Honey Gold!

    April 16, 2025

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    July 22, 2026
  • Bee Wednesday Ep. 10 Honey Processing Day: How We Harvested Over 6 Pounds of Raw Honey Without an Extractor!

    May 7, 2025 / 0 Comments

    Harvesting raw honey at home without expensive equipment! Watch as we harvest 3 frames from our beehive using the crush-and-strain method, yielding over 6 pounds (12 jars) of pure honey. Includes tips on filtering with cheesecloth and letting bees clean the leftover frames.

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    Bee Wednesday Ep. 9: The Sweet Honey Haul Begins in Colorado!

    April 30, 2025

    Bee Wednesday Ep. 14: 🐝 Harvesting 22 Pounds of Raw Honey (Without an Expensive Extractor!)

    July 22, 2026
    honey bee on purple floor with blurred green background.

    Getting Started with Bees for Beginners

    February 19, 2025
 Older Posts
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

  • Back-to-Back Cruise: Our 14-Day Adventure
  • Bee Wednesday Ep. 14: 🐝 Harvesting 22 Pounds of Raw Honey (Without an Expensive Extractor!)
  • Star Princess Cruise
  • Ultimate Grocery Shopping Guide 2026: Simple Tips to Save Money, Eat Healthier, and Shop Smarter

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