This Site Contains Amazon Affiliate Links
This Site Contains Amazon Affiliate Links
Hi, I’m Mary Ellen, the creator of the YouTube channel Life is Messy But I Am Learning as I Grow. I’m thrilled you’re here, joining me on this journey of discovery and creativity! As a mother of two, married to my high school sweetheart, and with a career background in childcare, my life is wonderfully busy and, yes, a little messy—but that's part of the fun.
This space is all about learning and growing through the beautiful mess of everyday life. Whether it’s plant-based cooking, crafting with the kids, digging in the garden, or figuring out how to live more simply and intentionally—we’re doing it together, one step at a time.
On this site, you’ll find:
🌱 Plant-based recipes and eco-friendly kitchen tips
🎨 Simple DIY crafts and creative projects for all ages
🏡 Real-life parenting stories, thrifty homemaking, and budgeting advice
🌼 Gardening how-tos and seasonal inspiration
💚 Family-friendly travel and lifestyle ideas
🎉 A whole section for holiday joy—complete with recipes, kids’ crafts, DIY decorations, and fun ways to celebrate every season
Here, it’s not about perfection—it’s about the process. We’re building skills, making memories, trying new things, and learning through both the wins and the messes.
So whether you’re looking for a quick recipe, a craft to do with your kids, or just a little encouragement along your journey, I hope you feel right at home here. Let’s keep growing—together.
Hey you! Yes, you— You need to check out my YouTube channel “Life is Messy But I’m Learning as I Grow” where perfection is overrated and messes are just part of the fun. Whether I’m hot gluing my fingers together (again), cooking something easy & deliciously, or chasing my cats off the craft table—you’ll always find real-life creativity, laughs, and learning in progress.
You can Expect:
Budget-friendly DIYs with a side of glitter chaos
Plant-based cooking that won’t scare your kids (probably)
Gardening tips from someone who talks to her plants
Family travel where at least one thing goes hilariously wrong
And cats
Tips & DIY Crafts Ideas
Crafting Tips
Essential Tools & Supplies for Crafting
12 Creative Gift Ideas for Crafters
DIY Craft Ideas
Tips and Recipes
Tips
12 Staples for your Plant Based Pantry
10 Ways to Save Money on Groceries
Perfect Gifts Every Chef Wants
Breakfast Recipes
Pineapple Upside Down Pancakes
Sides
Basmati Rice (Instant Pot)
Jasmine Rice (Instant Pot)
Brown Rice (Instant Pot)
Corn on the Cob (Instant Pot)
Dessert Recipes
Cherry Dump Cake (Instant Pot)
Tips and Recipes
Tips
Recipes
12 Whole Food Plant Based Recipes
Sauces, Jams & Condiments
Soups
Entrees
Stuffed Pepper Jack-o-Lanterns
Sides
Desserts
Tips and Recipes
Garden Decorations DIY & Growing Tips
Travel Guides and Tips for Traveling with Kids
Friendly Advice, Tips, Arts & Crafts for Kids & More
Real Life Parenting Wins & Fails
Messy but Memorable Family Vacations
Growing into Parenting One Lesson at a Time
Family Fitness Fun - Get Moving Together
Transitioning Our Family to a Plant-Based Diet
Growing Together in the Garden
Family Vacation - Great Wolf Lodge
Fun Summer Activities for Kids
Family Budgeting tips for Saving Together
Start a Family Reading Challenge
How to Plan Family Backyard Camping
Timeless Tips From Past Recessions For Families Facing Financial Crisis
How Parents Survived the Great Depression (and How You Can Too)
15 Ways to Encourage Creativity in Children
Free & Budget Friendly Date Nights for Busy Parents
Crafts for Kids
Friendly Advice, Tips, Arts & Crafts for Kids & More
Friendly Advice, Tips, Arts & Crafts for Kids & More
Friendly Advice, Tips, Arts & Crafts for Kids & More
Check out my Learning and Growing Library!
Here, you'll find a collection of my books, including plant-based cookbooks, whimsical coloring books, a journal prompt book to inspire self-reflection, and a unique coloring book planner to keep your days organized and creative. I designed each book to help you embrace your journey, learn something new, and, most importantly, have fun along the way.
Visit my Amazon shop where you can find my favorite Craft Supplies, Cookware, Kitchen Appliances, Plant Based Ingredients, Gardening Gear, Gift Ideas and more.
*Associate Disclosure* This article contains affiliate links.