Blog
Musings of a Grateful Mom:
Motherhood in all its messy, magical glory. From laundry piles to turtle conspiracies, this post is a lighthearted reflection on parenting, gratitude, and surviving the chaos one sunrise and silly moment at a time. Plus, a few real-talk tips for conquering the hard days when it all feels like a lot.
Chalkboard Dreams and Sunshine Coasts: A Chalk Couture January Recap!
January has been full of chalk, connection, and coastal vibes! From the American Vintage Market Days in Sarasota to prepping for next month’s Myrtle Beach event, join Mary Jo as she reflects on the joy of creating, mentoring, and starting 2024 with sunshine and sparkle. Plus, learn why now’s the perfect time to join the Flamingo Farmhouse Chalk Couture team!
Got Homemade Kalua Pork?
Bring a little ALOHA to your kitchen!
Today I’m sharing one of my all-time favorite recipes—Kalua Pua (Kalua Pork), island-style! Traditionally cooked in an underground pit, this version is made easy using a roaster pan, banana leaves, and a few flavorful ingredients. Perfect for sharing with family, friends, or your Chalk Couture crew! Mahalo and enjoy! 🌺
PoTATo, PoTOTo
What started as a grocery mix-up turned into a kitchen win!
When life gave me 15 pounds of yellow potatoes, I made magic—mashed potatoes for the freezer and crispy waffle-style hash browns served with fresh guac. In true MARKEL MANIA™ fashion, this cooking adventure was chaotic, creative, and delicious. Come laugh, learn, and maybe get inspired to embrace the “potato panic” moments in your own kitchen!
Got Bananas?
Yes, we have bananas—homegrown and full of flavor!
After three months of waiting, we harvested a hand of bananas from our own backyard trees. In this post, I’m sharing how we grow, harvest, and ripen these sweet treats (plus a few tasty ways to cook with them—green or ripe!). From tree to table, you’ll never look at a banana the same way again!
Welcome to the Flamingo Farmhouse Blog!
Welcome to the Flamingo Farmhouse Blog!
This space is where faith, creativity, and color collide. I’ll be sharing bits of my heart, behind-the-scenes of my Chalk Couture business, fun DIYs, encouragement for moms, and whatever else the Spirit leads me to write. Whether you’re here for inspiration, connection, or a creative spark — I’m so glad you’re here.
Meal Planning 102
Ready to cut your grocery bill and meal prep stress in half?
Meal Planning 102 is here! In this post, I’m breaking down how to shop smarter, cook frugally, and save real money—without sacrificing food quality. Learn why shopping less often, sticking to a list, and using budget-friendly stores like Aldi can completely change your kitchen routine (and your bank account). Plus, I’ll show you how these simple shifts are helping my family save up for something big. Let’s get to planning—and saving!
Meal Planning 101
Frugal doesn’t mean boring—it means freedom.
In Meal Planning 101, I’m sharing the system I created to feed a family of six on just $350–$400/month—without sacrificing quality or creativity. With simple steps, flexible calendars, and pantry organization tips, you’ll learn how to stretch your grocery budget, reduce stress, and still enjoy your favorite meals. Whether you’re saving for a dream trip or just trying to make ends meet, this system works. And yes—there’s room for whoopie pies.
Why Do I Write about Mentoring Mothers
Every mom needs a village—and a voice that reminds her she’s not alone.
Welcome to the start of something deeply personal and purpose-filled. As a wife, homeschool mom, and mentor, I’m here to share my journey—honestly, messily, and with lots of love. This blog is for the mothers in the thick of it—the ones navigating toddler chaos, battling self-doubt, and trying to break generational cycles. If that’s you, come along. You were chosen for this.