I cannot tell you how excited I am to have you readers in my life!! I'm pretty sure we won't meet until we get to Heaven but we're together down here. I know that now more than ever!!
After nearly 6 weeks without rain here in the Great Plaines of the US, I asked you to pray that our farm would get desperately needed rain. Within hours the rain started falling and my heart is full of gratitude to each one of you who prayed for that!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!
That night we got 3/4 of an inch of rain!!! Not only that, but last night we got another 3/4 of an inch! That's an INCH AND A HALF of rain in the 2 days following my asking for your help! It's a MIRACLE!!!!!!
This rain will green up the pastures for the cattle so ranchers won't have to thin their herds before Winter. This means a lot to me as I've had cattle in my life as a daughter; a wife; and as a mother.
When I asked Robert (my husband) if it's enough rain to save our crops, he wasn't sure. It certainly would have done so a month ago but it may be too late to help with the corn crop as many of those plants were drying up already. However, the soybeans may now produce a small crop for us.
Robert and I went out last Sabbath to check the crops together. He hadn't done that in 3 weeks as it was too depressing to see all of our hard work shrivel up without rain. Last week I went with him as I was feeling better.
I asked to see a soybean plant and Robert pulled one out for me. There were about 10 pods on it but the beans were so small they didn't even bulge the pods like peas do when they're growing. It was truly heartbreaking for my farmer husband so I was glad he wasn't alone.
So now, with these 2 rains, we have hopes that those pods might start filling. We get an early frost here, around September 15th, so they need to fill fast.
I appreciate every prayer that you sent but, as the Lord leads you, please keep praying for about an inch of rain a week. Then those pods will fill and we'll have a reason to take out the combine this Fall.
I value you all taking the time to read my thoughts here! One of my goals, in starting this blog over a decade ago, was to share things that give me hope. Now you are giving me hope and it couldn't come at a better time.
This year in our family we're having 2 babies and my son is getting married in October. It's all wonderful but it isn't without stress. My daughter's baby was another preemie so I spent 2 1/2 weeks at their house helping with the 5 children. My daughter-in-law will give birth soon and that will be their 5th child. This time it's a girl after 4 boys so their family is super excited. I'm sure the boys will spend more and more time with us as the birth approaches.
Then the wedding is going to be the highlight of the year as our youngest child has waited many many years to find his true love. He's now 30 but she was worth the wait! It happened to work out that they're getting married on our 46th wedding anniversary!!
I'll be singing at the wedding as I have at our other 2 children's weddings. I was trained by a professional singer, when I was young, and I have sung at countless weddings but singing at my children's has a bit more stress to do a perfect job that I never felt while singing at any other weddings. ;)
So, to have the farm having hope of a crop, because of your prayers, is a joy that I can't put into words and that is not usually hard for me. :) It will help to pay for the wedding, too, and all of those baby gifts. LOL Did I say that I hosted a baby shower here a few weeks ago?
It's always been a joy to be a part of the family of God, these past 57 years, but experiencing your prayers for our farm brings tears of joy as I ponder it. THANK YOU SOOOO MUCH!!
Dawn
PS. I'll see if I can find some pictures of soybean fields with and without rain so you can see the difference.
We weren't too excited because it could just be a sprinkle BUT, as we listened, the rain INCREASED!!!
There was a LOT of thunder, too, so I thanked God for making HIS magnificent voice heard in the skies over our farm!
I had a feeling that, if we got enough people praying, God would hear our cries and send the rain and HE DID!!!
I'm not sure how much rain we actually got. I just got back from checking the rain gauge but it was empty. Robert must have emptied it, after he checked it, on his way to work. I texted him to ask how much rain fell here last night but I haven't heard back. We may have to wait until supper as I pack his lunch every day.
Everything was wet outside!!!!!! I am sooo happy. Now the pastures will green up again and perhaps our crops will be saved.
I can't thank you enough for praying for us and our farm. May God bless you all who took time to hear my cry for more prayer support yesterday!!
OH SO HAPPY!
I don't have much time to write as I'm hosting Bible study today at my house. Once a month we neighborhood ladies get together to study God's word. Then we take prayer requests and take them to the Lord together. It's such a special time for all of us as we leave knowing that we are being prayed for!
As our crops dry up, so does our hope. Unless you're a farmer who plants seeds for weeks in the Spring and watches them take off beautifully, it may be hard to imagine the grief we're experiencing as our work shrivels beneath the hot dry winds.
It's been about a month and a half since we've had any rain more than a few drops. Praying and fasting have not brought rain so this drought must be straight out of hell. Platitudes like "God is in control" or "It's for the best" do nothing to comfort a farmer's aching heart!!!
I always try not to write negative things here without giving the bright side. Right now I can't see any bright side. That makes me think I shouldn't even be taking your time since I can't see any ray of hope without rain coming this week. However, should enough people pray for us to get rain, it may overwhelm the great enemy holding it back.
I think often, from the book of Daniel, where he was praying and fasting. Nothing changed. Suddenly Gabriel appeared. He said he was trying to get to Daniel for 21 days but the evil forces over the area kept him from coming to Daniel's aid. After enough prayers had reached Heaven, God send Michael the Archangel to answer Daniel's prayers.
Folks, our farm SEEDS OF HONOR needs more prayer to break this drought. Will you please join us in praying for God to send rain to South Central North Dakota USA?
Most of the corn around here has shriveled up. What could have been a saleable crop, most likely will now be sold to neighbors who have cattle. They'll bring in machinery to chop up the whole stalks into silage. We'll get paid pennies instead of dollars. Only once before, in our lifetime of farming, have things gotten this bad.
Again, please pray with us for rain to come to South Central North Dakota. May God bless you for your prayers.
We woke up to rain on the roof which thrilled Robert and I that maybe--just maybe- our crops can be saved! Please pray that the rains continue as the crops have been shriveling up for weeks now. ); It is so heavy to live through this kind of heat with the understanding that all of our work may end up in no crop to sell.
On the bright side, we had a wonderful baby shower on Saturday!! Friends came and our neighborhood ladies all brought some food to share! It reminded me of how much can be done when people work in unity.
It was marvelous how the ladies converted my home into a dreamy place. I'll see if I can figure out how to get photos from my phone to my computer! You know what a techie I am NOT!
My daughter and her 6 children traveled here from MN. Her husband wasn't able to get away from the farm so her mother-in-law drove her here. It's a long journey for little people but they have a new/used 8 passenger mini-van complete with DVD players. ;)
I loved this devotional this morning. In my weakness, the Lord still used my home to be a haven for family and a special party gathering place for the shower. Everyone helped and everyone rejoiced in making happy family/community memories together!
Bummer. I'm not getting pictures to transfer but I'll keep trying.
Much love to all of you praying friends out there!
Dawn
I Hear His Whisper...
Search for me.
To love me with all of your heart means to bow before my glory. Many sing the songs of my glory, but when I bring the fullness of my presence to you, it requires you to bow before me in sacred reverence. I dwell in light unapproachable. I am transcendent—different from anything you have known on this earth. Search for me, and you will learn what it means to fear the Lord.
Live in the awareness of my omnipotence and majesty. Know me as Savior and Friend, but humbly yield to me as the King of kings and the Lord of lords. As you live out of the place of awe and reverence, I beckon you closer. I purify you and make you more like me. Remember that I have called you to be a vessel of my holy presence. My great Spirit dwells within you. To fear me doesn’t mean you stand far off, eyes averted, heart pounding, with the awareness of your sin screaming for its punishment. Instead, humble fear of me reminds you of the power of my love, extended in mercy—not pushing you away, but pulling you close.
After this, the church all over Judea, Galilee, and Samaria experienced a season of peace. The congregations grew larger and larger, with the believers being empowered and encouraged by the Holy Spirit. They worshiped God in wonder and awe, and walked in the fear of the Lord.
I realize that this post will probably not apply to most of you. That's ok. Perhaps you know someone that this information will help as they prepare to host a baby shower as I am.
This Saturday about 30 women and girls will gather at my house. My daughter-in-law, after having FOUR SONS, is having a daughter! YAY She has absolutely nothing pink so we decided to help her a little to prepare for A GIRL!!!
I am thrilled because my daughter and her family are making the long trip in order to be able to attend! YAY. My future daughter-in-law is living here (across the road in the shop office) and so she will get to meet many of our family friends.
I am greatly relieved that the expectant mother has done a lot of the work in organizing this happy event!!!!! She is SOOO happy to be getting a daughter soon! It helps a lot when you know how someone would like things to be done so I rejoice that she has planned the decorations......
As you may recall, our neighborhood ladies meet twice a month. We have "Serious tea" which means we hold a Bible study every month. Then we have a regular tea party too. These are the highlights of my month!
All of us ladies are really hosting the baby shower. Several are bringing food and others are helping with games and decorations. It's so nice to be a part of a caring group!
My job is to provide a clean house which is easier said than done. Since the intense MS flareup last month, I'm still hobbling around on crutches. Everything takes soooo long! If you feel led to pray for me as I prepare for my guests, I would be extremely grateful.
I'd best get back to it. Oh, did I mention that my daughter is coming with 8 people all of whom will be staying with us? Also, please pray that Robert can get the air conditioner working better. It about half works now and, with that many people in the house, I've got a feeling that half working will not be enough especially in this crazy heat.
Thanks again for all of your prayers for me and my family!
Dawn
How to Plan a Beautiful Baby Shower on a Budget
Budget shouldn’t be the thing that overshadows the joy of celebrating a new baby. Most parents know the truth already: life is about to get wonderfully full—and a little expensive—so throwing a shower that feels warm, thoughtful, and deeply personal matters far more than centerpieces or professionally styled dessert tables. When you plan a baby shower on a budget, you’re really choosing intention over excess. You’re focusing on the connections in the room, the stories shared, the tiny socks passed around, the laughter that comes from the simplest games.
Start With Realistic Expectations (and a Game Plan)
When you plan a baby shower on a budget, the real secret isn’t cutting everything—it’s choosing what matters most. A beautiful celebration doesn’t require a designer venue or elaborate catering. It starts with a grounded plan that reflects the mom-to-be’s personality and the atmosphere she actually wants. Think cozy, intentional, and meaningful instead of expensive or over-produced.
Know the Guest of Honor’s Priorities
Before anything else, talk with the mom-to-be about what she imagines. Does she love the idea of a simple brunch? A dessert table? Something outdoors and relaxed? Getting clear on one vision helps avoid impulse purchases and keeps spending focused. If she’s overwhelmed or expecting long-distance guests, consider whether elements from a virtual-style shower could simplify the event and trim costs.
Set Your Budget (And Stick to It Without Feeling Deprived)
A smart way to plan a baby shower on a budget is to “reverse-plan”: choose your total number, subtract the must-haves, and divide the rest into categories. It instantly shows where to splurge and where to save.
One of the easiest ways to plan a baby shower on a budget is choosing a venue that doesn’t take a huge bite out of your spending. Big price tags don’t guarantee a memorable celebration—warmth, comfort, and intention do. A cozy living room, a sunlit backyard, or even a shaded park pavilion can feel just as special as a rented hall. If you need inspiration for different spaces and aesthetics, take a peek at these cute baby shower venue ideas that show just how magical low-cost locations can be.
Budget-friendly venue ideas:
Host at home for a warm, intimate atmosphere
A friend’s backyard for spacious, free outdoor charm
Keep the mom-to-be’s comfort front and center—easy seating, nearby bathrooms, and weather backup plans matter more than extra square footage. When you build your venue decision around practicality instead of perfection, the rest of your budget stretches much farther.
The most budget-friendly showers focus on the people who matter most. Let relationships guide the list instead of obligation. This is where “quality over quantity” pays off—not just financially, but emotionally. If you need a refresher on who typically gets invited, this gentle breakdown on who to invite to a baby shower can help simplify the decision-making.
A smaller group also helps the host stay relaxed, reduces food prep, and fosters deeper connection. It’s social, but not overwhelming.
Digital Invitations Are Chic Now
You can skip the pricey printed invitations without sacrificing style. Digital invites have become the norm—and they’re beautiful, customizable, and often under $10. Canva templates, Etsy printables, or even elegant email-based invitations make the process effortless and budget-friendly.
Pair these with a cohesive color palette and warm messaging, and you’ll set the tone for the celebration without overspending. Digital invitations keep things modern, eco-friendly, and perfectly aligned with the goal to plan a baby shower on a budget.
Budget-Friendly Baby Shower Food That Still Feels Special
Food is where gatherings come alive, but it’s also where costs can skyrocket fast. When you plan a baby shower on a budget, simplicity becomes your superpower. A thoughtful, well-curated menu—built around homemade favorites, seasonal ingredients, and a few store-bought shortcuts—can feel just as indulgent as catered spreads. Think cozy brunch bites, a dessert-forward table, or a light lunch that doesn’t require hours in the kitchen. Guests remember flavors, not price tags.
Choose a Simple, Stunning Menu Theme
A cohesive theme keeps planning easy and helps you avoid buying “a little bit of everything.” Try a morning shower with pastries and fruit, a dessert table with cupcakes and cookies, or a soup-and-salad pairing for something comforting and affordable. If you need inspiration or reliable recipes to anchor your menu, trusted home-cooking hubs like Food Network, Taste of Home, and AllRecipes offer endless options that fit any budget or skill level.
Pastry + Coffee brunch (easy, cozy, low prep)
Sweet & Simple dessert bar (cupcakes, bars, fruit, candies)
Soup + Salad midday shower
DIY sandwich or croissant board
Potluck Style — But Make It Polished
Inviting close friends or family to contribute one dish keeps the overall cost low while creating a communal, love-filled vibe. You’re not “asking for help”—you’re inviting them to be part of something special. The host can assemble the finishing touches: fruit platters, snack boards, or a simple cupcake stand.
A few well-chosen serving pieces elevate the entire spread without a big investment. Consider staples like a tiered serving tray, white porcelain platters, and a simple cake stand that you can reuse for future parties, holidays, or even milestone birthdays.
Games, Activities, and Entertainment (Without Spending a Fortune)
Entertainment doesn’t have to come with a big price tag. When you plan a baby shower on a budget, the best approach is choosing games and activities that feel fun, interactive, and meaningful without requiring expensive supplies. A few clever printables, simple guessing games, or DIY crafts can fill the room with laughter just as well as paid entertainment.
Guests remember the moments they shared—who guessed the baby’s birthday, who won bingo, who couldn’t stop laughing during the trivia—not how much the host spent. If you want a larger list to pull from, the ideas in this roundup of fun baby shower games are easy to adapt and incredibly budget-friendly.
Free or Nearly-Free Games
Baby Bingo — Print bingo cards, hand out pens, and let the fun begin.
“Guess the Due Date” Calendar — A single printable and a few sticky notes make this a winner.
Mom or Dad Trivia — Personal, sweet, and guaranteed to get people talking.
Advice Cards — Heartfelt notes the mom-to-be will cherish.
Onesie Decorating — Affordable and adorable with just plain onesies and fabric markers.
If you want an easy craft-style activity, set out plain white onesies and let guests design a keepsake for the baby. Simple supplies like fabric markers, mini clothespins, and printable game card packs make the entire activity affordable and polished.
Entertainment doesn’t need to be elaborate. With the right mix of playful activities and heartfelt moments, your shower will feel lively, warm, and wonderfully low-stress.
Affordable Baby Shower Cakes + Sweets
Desserts are the visual heart of most showers, but they don’t need to drain the budget. When you plan a baby shower on a budget, think simple, sweet, and homemade-adjacent. A grocery store cake with a little DIY styling, a cupcake tower, or a single signature dessert can feel every bit as special as a custom order.
If you need design inspiration—colors, styles, modern trends—this collection of adorable baby shower cake ideas is packed with looks you can recreate affordably.
Budget-Friendly Dessert Ideas
Grocery store sheet cake glow-up — Add fresh flowers, sprinkles, or a themed cake topper.
DIY cupcake tower — Easy, cute, and far cheaper than tiered cakes.
Dessert sampler table — Bars, cookies, fruit, and candies give variety without much cost.
Single specialty dessert — One standout item plus simple sides keeps things elegant.
If you’re assembling a dessert table, a few stylish yet inexpensive tools can elevate the whole display. A cupcake stand, white cake pedestal, or set of serving tongs gives everything a polished, intentional feel without adding unnecessary spend.
Whether you choose store-bought, homemade, or a mix of both, remember: guests won’t know the price tag. They’ll remember how sweet, cozy, and celebratory the table felt.
Meaningful Favors Guests Will Actually Use (Without Overspending)
Favors don’t need to be elaborate or expensive to feel thoughtful. When you plan a baby shower on a budget, focus on small, practical items that guests will genuinely enjoy. A simple, well-presented favor feels far more special than something pricey but generic.
Think cozy, useful, and easy to personalize. If you need ideas that balance charm and affordability, this gentle guide to baby shower favors offers inspiration that works for nearly any shower style.
Affordable Favor Ideas That Feel High-End
Mini candles — Tie with ribbon and a sweet tag.
Individually wrapped cookies — Delicious and universally loved.
DIY bath salts — Easy, relaxing, and beautiful in small jars.
Bookmarks — Add a quote or sweet message for a personal touch.
You can elevate even the simplest favors with a few low-cost supplies. Try mini gift jars, favor stickers, or bulk ribbon to create polished, cohesive bundles without overspending.
Favors should feel sentimental, not obligatory. When you choose items with purpose and present them thoughtfully, guests notice the care—not the cost.
Pulling It All Together: A Sample $150–$250 Baby Shower Plan
Venue: $0 Host at home, in a friend’s backyard, or at a local park. Free venues instantly cut the biggest cost most showers carry.
Invitations: $8 A digital Canva or Etsy template that matches your color palette and theme.
Food: $60–$120 A simple brunch spread, a dessert table, or a soup-and-salad setup. Add one homemade anchor dish and a few store-bought sides to round it out.
Decor: $30–$45 DIY balloon garland, greenery, mason jars, and soft lighting go a long way. Focus on one statement area rather than decorating the entire room.
Games & Activities: $0–$15 Free printable games, trivia, or a simple craft like onesie decorating.
Favors: $20–$40 Mini candles, cookies, or small plant favors dressed up with labels and ribbon.
Cake or Sweets: $15–$30 A grocery store cake glow-up, a batch of cupcakes, or a single special dessert.
With intentional choices and a clear plan, a $150–$250 shower feels warm, polished, and deeply personal—proof that a meaningful celebration has nothing to do with how much you spend. When you plan a baby shower on a budget, you’re choosing creativity and connection over excess, and that’s exactly what makes the day unforgettable.
You are my own, brought into oneness with me through the blood of Jesus. Nothing could have kept you from my lavish love, for it has been pursuing you since you were formed in your mother’s womb. No power on earth or anywhere else can keep you from living in the purity of your purpose. All chains of sin and death were broken when Christ raised up in resurrection power. You are free in mercy, my child. You are alive in me, so rejoice in your freedom!
My power has left no sin-cycle untouched. Love has liberated you. So where there are echoes of captivity, surrender to my powerful mercy. Watch! I will wash away the remnants of shame as you walk in the light of my life. Align your life with mine, letting go of everything that would hinder love’s call, and run in the radiance of my glory. With uninterrupted connection, live with your heart open to my voice and to my leading. I will never let you go or let you down. Even if you find yourself on an old, worn-out path that leads to darkness, I will guide you back to liberty again.
This “realm of death” describes our former state, for we were held in sin’s grasp. But now, we’ve been resurrected out of that “realm of death” never to return, for we are forever alive and forgiven of all our sins!
