I've been surrounded by chemicals all of my life. I grew up on a farm in rural Indiana and my husband and I owned and operated a crop dusting business. While I wouldn't trade any of it for the world, after being diagnosed with breast cancer I began thinking about all the toxins in my life. I started researching products and foods that we consume and realized how many chemicals are found in our every day consumer goods. It was too late to ward off cancer for me, but I wanted to protect myself and my family going forward. I wanted to create a healthy living environment and monitor what goes into our bodies. 

What is even more alarming, we don't really know much about most of the effects of these chemicals on us. They do know that certain compounds act as hormone disruptors, or Endocrine-disrupting chemicals (EDCs.) These chemicals, found in beauty products, food, and the environment, interfere with hormone production and metabolism. I don't know about you, but I don't need any further disruption in those departments!

1. Swap Synthetic Cleaners for Natural Alternatives
​Many conventional cleaners contain harsh chemicals that can irritate your skin, lungs, and even disrupt hormones. I recently started using TrulyFree products and I really like them and the company! They have a great subscription program and they are very reasonably priced! One of the easiest and best things you should do first is change your laundry detergent. Your clothes are against your skin all day long. Don't fill them with chemicals and harmful fragrances!

• DIY Cleaners: Mix equal parts vinegar and water with a few drops of essential oils for a multi-purpose cleaner.
• Eco-Friendly Brands: Look for certified non-toxic brands like Truly Free, Attitude, or Blueland.
• Check the EWG website for products that are safe!

2. Replace Plastic Food Storage with Glass or Silicone
​Plastics, especially when heated, can leach harmful chemicals like BPA or phthalates into your food. Goodbye Tupperware and Rubbermaid - sorry!

• Switch to Glass Containers: They’re microwave, dishwasher, and freezer-safe.
• Reusable Silicone Bags: Perfect for snacks and leftovers, these are a durable, toxin-free alternative to single-use plastic bags.

3. Purify the Air Naturally
​Indoor air can be 2-5 times more polluted than outdoor air, but you don’t need an expensive purifier to make a difference. Using all natural candles (no fragrances) and houseplants will help purify the air while also serving as nice home decor. Be sure to keep your furnace's air filter clean and find one that traps a lot of particles and allergens. We also use a BLUEAIR air purifier from Amazon in our son's room to keep him as healthy as possible!

• Houseplants: Varieties like peace lilies, spider plants, and pothos are natural air purifiers.
• Beeswax Candles: Swap synthetic candles for beeswax; they clean the air and create a cozy atmosphere without synthetic fragrances.

4. Filter Your Water
​Tap water can contain contaminants like chlorine, lead, and pesticides like RoundUP. 

• Invest in a Filter: A simple pitcher filter or a faucet-mounted system can significantly improve your water quality.
• Invest in a Drinking Water Dispenser: ​I've had water delivered from Culligan for years. It's relatively inexpensive. You can also get the jugs filled from the store. Just be sure to drink out of a glass or metal cup - not plastic!

5. Choose Non-Toxic Personal Care Products
Your skin absorbs much of what you put on it. Simplify your routine with safer choices. Choose aluminum-free deodorant and products free from harmful ingredients like parabens, SLES, PEG, BHT, BHA and phthalates. 

• Natural Deodorants and Soaps: Brands like Native or Dr. Bronner’s offer effective options without harmful additives.
• DIY Beauty Products: Coconut oil can double as a moisturizer, and a mix of baking soda and water makes a gentle exfoliant.
• Clean Beauty Products:  Choose brands known for their commitment to clean products like BeautyCounter, Ilia, and Honest to name a few. Again, check the EWG website for certifications or try the Yuka app.

6. Ditch Synthetic Fragrances
​Sorry ladies. This was one of the hardest for me. It's time to ditch the Scentsy! Air fresheners, wax melts, candles, and scented sprays often contain harmful chemicals masked by the label “fragrance.” Even if it says "natural" often times it still has chemicals in it. The only scents that are 100% natural are pure essential oils. I've tried a lot of them and DoTerra is by far my favorite. They have so many scents and a lot of wonderful blends like On Guard, AirX, Abode, and Breathe which are wonderful for you and smell great too! The marble diffuser is also my favorite!

• Essential Oil Diffusers: Create your own signature scents while supporting better air quality.
• Baking Soda and Citrus: These make excellent natural deodorizers for your home instead of chemically scented carpet deodorizers.

7. Opt for Healthier Cookware
​Non-stick pans can release harmful chemicals at high temperatures and are considered "forever chemicals" because they don't break down. When choosing cookware look for:

• Cast Iron or Stainless Steel: These are safe, durable, and can last for generations.
• Upgrade to Ceramic Coated Pans: They’re a safer non-stick alternative without the risks of traditional Teflon coatings.

Detoxing your home doesn’t have to be overwhelming. Start with one swap at a time, and let these changes become a natural part of your lifestyle. Not only will your home feel fresher and safer, but you’ll also take pride in creating a healthier space for your loved ones.
Have you tried any of these swaps or have tips to share? Drop a comment below – I’d love to hear how you're making your home a toxin-free haven!

Today's verse from the YouVersion Bible App spurred my thinking about Election Day tomorrow. During the 2020 election season I found myself drowning in turmoil, exploring every conspiracy theory I could find, and placing all of my hopes on a candidate. My marriage was suffering, my health took a turn for the worse (I was diagnosed with breast cancer a few months later), and my mind was full of negative thoughts and emotions. I'm so thankful for God's love and guidance and my husband's strong character. They finally made me realize there wasn't a thing I could control about the outcome of the election. I deleted my Twitter account, I stopped watching the news 24/7, and I instead focused on God and my family. Because at the end of the day - God is in control. Let's be mindful of what we put into our minds and focus on the Almighty.

God's wisdom and understanding go far beyond what we can comprehend. We see things as they are in the present, influenced by what the media and social circles present to us, but God sees the bigger picture—the past, present, and future. His plans are woven into every decision, and even when things may seem uncertain or unexpected, we can find comfort in knowing that He is working behind the scenes in ways we may not immediately understand.

​Election season can bring about anxiety. We may worry about our children’s futures, the economy, social issues, and the direction of our nation. But instead of letting fear or worry consume us, we can turn those feelings over to God through prayer. Philippians 4:6-7 reminds us, “Do not be anxious about anything, but in every situation, by prayer and petition, with thanksgiving, present your requests to God.” When we pray, we’re acknowledging that God is ultimately in control, and we’re invited to release our fears to Him.

​As moms, we’re often asked tough questions by our kids about why things are the way they are. Election seasons give us an incredible opportunity to teach them about faith and trust. We can show them that, while it’s important to be informed and responsible citizens, our trust ultimately lies in God, not in any political party or candidate. By talking openly with our children about the importance of faith and reminding them that God’s love and sovereignty remain steady, we’re building a foundation of peace and confidence for them in times of uncertainty.

In the middle of passionate debates and disagreements, we can often feel pressured to choose sides or become frustrated. However, as Christians, we are called to be lights in the world (Matthew 5:14-16). This means showing love, respect, and grace to those around us—even if they think differently. Our focus should be on embodying God’s love, regardless of the political climate. This season, let’s choose to be a calm presence in our homes, on social media, and in our communities, setting an example of grace and patience.

​No matter the outcome, our faith reminds us that God is still in control. The outcome of any election may surprise or disappoint us, but we can lean on Romans 8:28: “And we know that in all things God works for the good of those who love Him, who have been called according to His purpose.” We can rest in the assurance that God’s purpose is always moving forward.

​Let’s go into this election prayerfully and confidently, with our hearts set on God’s unfailing love and perfect wisdom. Let’s support each other, pray for our leaders, and trust in His plan with the knowledge that His will is perfect, even when the world seems unpredictable.