Hello, I’m Naomi!
Welcome to Westvale Home!
On my blog, you’ll find tips on how to make your house a home, including organization routines, meal planning, sourdough tutorials, and other kitchen ventures! I enjoy experimenting with my “ferments” in the kitchen, spending time in my garden, and even tidying up my home. There is something so rewarding in embracing the simplicity of a homemaking life and turning your abode into a warm and welcoming place for your family and friends.
I have been married for a year and a half, and I couldn’t love being married any more. I would enjoy a nice, quiet life at home with my husband, but that is not the kind of life that I currently lead. I work a full-time job, teach on the side, and enjoy social visits, which doesn’t leave much time for cleaning, cooking, and gardening. But I am determined to fit those things in, even if I have to do them in small segments here and there throughout the day. Sometimes it just means prioritizing. And honestly, sometimes it means that one thing may get neglected for a season while another thing gets the attention. That’s ok! If your floors don’t get vacuumed every week because it’s May and planting the garden can’t wait, then that’s just reality. Life comes and goes in seasons, and during some seasons we may have to refocus on a certain area of life.
My husband, Gabe, and I live in California, in a suburban area. Although we dream of having a little homestead someday, we’re grateful for a home that meets our needs right now. It’s a funny little 1970’s house with a bold linoleum-floored kitchen and bright orange countertops. It’s not my style, but it works!
Both of us grew up in a city setting, but we were brought up in families that taught strong moral principles and godly living. Now married, we continue to seek God while pursuing wholesome living and learning new skills to save money and avoid nasty ingredients.
Though it’s just the two of us right now, we hope to start a family soon. We look forward to homeschooling any children the Lord chooses to bless us with.
Another thing we’re passionate about is hosting other people at our home. Gabe is a bit of a social butterfly, and even though I am naturally an introvert, he has taught me to love and appreciate others in a way that I have not before. One of the ways we show our regard for friends and family is to invite them into our home and put food in front of them! Our hope and goal is that they will always feel welcome (whether our house is squeaky clean and the meal is made or not!) I guess you could say it’s a new love language I’m learning.
I will write about the art of hospitality and how it can actually HELP you get your cleaning and chores done. If you’re someone who enjoys the company of others and you have the ability to host them, you can utilize those opportunities for your housecleaning routine.
Sourdough and kombucha brewing have been a couple of my favorite projects in our kitchen. I’ve kept them up during the busiest season of my life, and it is very manageable! Who knew that you could make an assortment of dishes and desserts with that sourdough starter that just sits on your counter? It can be used for last-minute recipes, as well as more well-planned dishes. And if you enjoy kombucha and want to reap the gut-healing benefits it provides without paying an arm and a leg at the store, stay tuned in! (P.S.- It’s much cheaper to brew it at home!)
My goal is to inspire you by handing you practical ways to organize your home, cook, and clean in a way that helps you get it done when it’s important. Remember, some days you won’t get everything done. I’ve had many overwhelming evenings when I’ve realized that I only got two things done on my to-do list. It’s not a great feeling, but you’re not alone!
I will be documenting my own story in homemaking, but I am also here to teach you how to organize your home and bring homemade, budget dishes to your table. I know it’s hard. But the way I see it is that your home is an “oasis” and a resting spot for you and those you love. Isn’t that plenty enough motivation to make the effort? It’s the little things that make a difference.
Follow along for homemaking and lifestyle content!