Posts by Maureen

About Maureen


My Little Miracle

We recently had the 20-week ultrasound for Baby #3.  Even though this is the third time around for us, the whole process still amazes me. I get so excited with every little kick, and the doctor’s appointments can be reassuring and interesting. With each pregnancy, I find myself following my baby’s development (the weekly emails […]


Simple Christmas Craft

By no means am I a crafty girl.  Sure, I can hold my own in the kitchen, and when it comes to whipping up homemade household cleaners I’ve become quite a champ.  But, crafting requires patience and skill and creativity, characteristics I’d rather devote towards other endeavors. However, now that the sun sets by 5 […]


Testing out the EIO Training Cup + GIVEAWAY

I’m always on the look-out for innovative kids products that are healthy and safe for my little ones.  So, when a high school friend (who is also a fellow eco-mom) sent me info about the EIO Kids Training Cup, I was instantly intrigued.  Because it uses a regular 8 oz glass canning jar it has […]


Why I am Grateful for My Family.

With the Thanksgiving weekend coming to a close, now seems like a good time to post about some feelings of gratitude I feel year ’round.  Although its nice to have nice things, I believe that the best gifts in life are people and experiences. As I write about often, I am exceedingly grateful for my […]


Free Disposable Diapers?? I Have A Better Idea…

My husband recently sent me some information about pending legislation that would allow diapers and related supplies to be bought with grant money provided to states.  The federal program, called the Child Care and Development Fund, received $5 billion in fiscal 2011, which it distributed to all 50 states, the District of Columbia and scores […]


Mango Lassi with Ginger and Cardamom

I’m feeling a little under the weather today.  Despite getting plenty of sleep last night, I am exhausted. And, I have no appetite so I haven’t eaten much today.  I suspect a day-long bout of nausea is due to this pregnancy, too.  So, after trying quite ridiculously and unsuccessfully to get my husband to leave […]


A Japanese Lunch with our Japanese Friends

One of the best things about living in a big city is encountering diversity on a daily basis.  People from all walks of life and all corners of the globe call Chicago home, and I consider their presence in my hometown to be a true asset and gift. Aren’t I lucky to have the world […]


Fresh Pumpkin for Homemade Pumpkin Pie

Last week the Breast Cancer Fund released a report about concerning levels of BPA in many prepared Thanksgiving foods.  BPA, an estrogenic chemical linked to breast cancer, is most often found in plastics (one of many reasons I try to avoid plastic altogether).  However, BPA is also found in other surprising places like grocery store […]


A Big World for a Little Girl

Lately, Evie has been asking a lot of questions about where we live and our planet.  I’m often fielding inquiries from her such as “Is Chicago our city?” “Do we take an airplane to Mexico?” “Is this the way to Granmary’s house??”  She loves looking at maps, whether it be the one at the bus […]


Homemade Mother of the Week: Laura Mueller, owner of Acacia Organics

This post is the eighth in the series “Homemade Mother of the Week.” If you know a woman who is thoughtfully sharing her passion for the planet,  families or the well-being of others, please nominate her for this special recognition.  Send an email with all the details to maureen@homemademothering.com This week I’d like you to […]