YHC Journal: January 11, 2025
Homemaking while your single, simple pickle recipe, and more!
Who says homemaking is only for the married or those with kids?
Homemaking is for every woman—single, engaged, married, or somewhere in between. It’s about creating a space that reflects who you are, nurtures your soul, and invites peace into your daily life.
When you’re single, it’s easy to think, I’ll focus on this later, but why wait to make your house a home? Homemaking while single is an opportunity to steward your current season with purpose and gratitude. It’s about cultivating a space where you can thrive—whether it’s a cozy apartment, a dorm room, or even just a rented room.
Think of it as setting the stage for the life you want. Learning how to care for your space, cook nourishing meals, and add little touches that make your house feel like you is such a gift. You’re building habits that not only serve you now but will bless you in the future. Plus, there’s something deeply fulfilling about walking into a space that feels peaceful, beautiful, and intentional—even if you’re the only one enjoying it.
Today, I had a heart-to-heart with my sister on my YouTube channel about why homemaking matters, especially when you’re single. We talk about the joy it brings, the character it builds, and how it shapes the atmosphere you live in. If you’ve been feeling unsure about how to make your space feel like home, this conversation is for you.
Watch the full interview and subscribe for future episodes!
Remember, homemaking isn’t about the size of your house or how many people live there—it’s about the heart you bring into it. So light that candle, make your bed, and embrace the joy of building a sanctuary in every season of life. 💛
In this month’s newsletter, we’re focusing on homemaking as a single woman. I hope you enjoy!
Easy Refrigerator Pickles
Ingredients:
1 cup distilled white vinegar (or apple cider vinegar for a tangier flavor)
1 cup water
2 tablespoons salt (kosher or pickling salt works best)
2 tablespoons maple syrup
3-4 small cucumbers, sliced into spears or rounds
2-3 cloves garlic, sliced or smashed
A handful of fresh dill sprigs
Optional: 1 teaspoon black peppercorns, 1/2 teaspoon red pepper flakes (for a slight kick)
Instructions:
Prepare the cucumbers: Wash the cucumbers thoroughly and slice them into spears, rounds, or leave them whole (if they’re small enough to fit in your jar).
Make the brine: In a small saucepan, combine the vinegar, water, salt, and maple syrup. Bring to a simmer over medium heat, stirring until the salt dissolves. Remove from heat and let it cool slightly.
Pack the jars: In a clean, heat-safe jar (e.g., mason jar), tightly pack the cucumber slices. Add the garlic, dill sprigs, and any optional spices (peppercorns or red pepper flakes) evenly among the jars.
Add the brine: Pour the slightly cooled brine over the cucumbers, ensuring they’re fully submerged. Leave a little space at the top of the jar.
Seal and refrigerate: Close the jar with a lid and let it cool to room temperature. Then, refrigerate for at least 24 hours before enjoying (the flavor improves over time, so 2-3 days is ideal).
Storage: These pickles can be stored in the refrigerator for up to 2-4 weeks.
Enjoy your homemade, tangy, and slightly sweet refrigerator pickles! 🥒
Young Homemakers Club is a community for homemakers looking for guidance on how to make their house a home. Feel free to join for expert knowledge, ebooks, & resources on homemaking!
Book Club Corner: Eve in Exile
Our first book club selection in 2025 is Eve in Exile and the Restoration of Femininity by Rebekah Merkle. This book will inspire you to see femininity through a biblical lens.
We will meet live in the community to discuss the chapters, so be on the lookout for that!
Prayer for Single Homemakers
Heavenly Father,
Thank You for the gift of this season of singleness and preparation. Help me embrace this time to grow in wisdom, character, and skill, becoming a woman after Your heart. Teach me to steward my home with care and diligence, preparing it as a place of peace, love, and hospitality.
Guide me as I grow in faith and trust in You, shaping me into the wife You have called me to be. Help me to cultivate a heart of submission, respect, and grace, reflecting Christ’s love in all I do.
Lord, in Your perfect timing, bring into my life a husband who honors You and leads with integrity. Until that day, may I find my joy, purpose, and contentment in You alone.
In Jesus’ name, I pray. Amen.
Bible Verse of the Week:
Psalm 37:4-5
"Delight yourself in the Lord, and He will give you the desires of your heart. Commit your way to the Lord; trust in Him, and He will act."
This verse can be a reminder to prioritize your relationship with God, and trust Him to guide your journey and fulfill your desires in His perfect timing.
Behind-the-Scenes: What’s Coming Up in 2025?
We’re so excited about what’s ahead! Here’s a sneak peek into what we’re working on for the year:
Free Community: That’s right, we’re actually creating a free community space in YHC with free ebooks & access to the clubs in the current community. Can’t wait to share more soon!
New Monthly Themes: Each month, we’ll dive deep into different aspects of homemaking, from organizing to nurturing your marriage and health. This month is all about keeping homemaking simple!
Exclusive Homemaking Workshops: More interactive sessions to help you simplify your homemaking journey, boost your confidence, and deepen your faith.
Guest Speakers: Real-life experts and fellow homemakers sharing their wisdom to help you grow and simplify.
Stay tuned for more!
Fun Poll!
We want to hear from YOU!
Favorites of the Week
Baby Brew Activities:
I've been loving these baby milestone activity cards—they're an absolute game-changer for moms or anyone shopping for the perfect gift for a mother!
These cards are designed to support your little one’s development from those precious first months all the way through toddlerhood. With over 90 interactive activities, they encourage physical, cognitive, speech, and social growth in fun and engaging ways. 💕
Click this link and use my code HOMEMAKER to get 10% off and start creating meaningful moments today! ✨
Did this newsletter help? Let me know :)
With love,
Anastasia Hounnou
Founder, Young Homemakers Club 💖
This is so calming and fulfilling😌