Becoming the Man of the House

Let's face it, my parents raised me as a princess. Sure most of the time we considered my daintiness as a joke, but in reality I tend to assume people will do things for me. I only shop where other people bag my groceries, memorize the gas stations that pump your gas, and when I walk to the car I automatically head for the passenger seat. My husband very lovingly reminds me our house does not contain a throne, but still there have always been chores that didn't appear on my to do list.

This week changed that assumption, starting with the trash. Until I was married I never bagged it, walked it to the curb, or even smelled it. Even once we tied the knot, David typically took care of our garbage. However different circumstances have led me to stop wondering, "will he remember to take it out today?" Like the man with the 5,000 dollar pair of hands is going to tie off the bag, come on! (Gob voice) Davey however loves to help and gets to carry his own bag. Just a few more years and I won't have to worry about it anymore:)

The second item I checked off my list was purchasing insurance. For someone so close to her thirties I really should be more knowledgeable. I'm just not. We're covered and have our cards, just don't ask me any questions quite yet. Somehow David trusts me on this....

Lastly, I hung every wall hanging of ours by myself. This chore I've been procrastinating on for weeks. I just hoped David would have the time or energy to help. Finally, I tried a few small items and eventually the larger stud requiring pieces. There are a few extra holes in the wall and some photos that look better when you tilt your head, but I am gaining a sense of independence I've never had.

Next week I have plans for washing the car and breaking in my new drill. Maybe someday I'll be ready to tackle plumbing, electronics, or even the purchase of an automobile.

A Five Star Weekend

When asked how I'd rank this past weekend, I responded with a five out of five stars. Despite a few drizzles, clouds, and glitches, how could I not? Nothing compares to gourmet burgers, the outdoors, and two full days with my family!

After 12 days in a row, working anywhere from 12-15 hour shifts, David was beginning to waste away. Those weren't even my words, but those of his fellow residents. We had plans to camp Saturday night so when David returned home Friday we headed out to a burger joint. I always feel somewhat guilty eating beef in Seattle, but nothing can refuel you like a half pound cheeseburger topped with an egg. Especially when it's preceded with nachos and fries. (As much as David enjoys pondering a Baby Vs. Food episode, I have come to the conclusion that a Pregnant Woman Vs. Food episode would not be as cute, although the food intake my surpass that of Adam Richman.)

Once we were stuffed and well rested, the following morning began with a trip to the bank. This may seem like a petty errand, but for us it was huge. For the first time in 4 years, David was able to sign his name on the back of a real paycheck. I am happy to say, my husband finally has a job. Our new source of income was celebrated by purchasing a family size tent, followed by an hour and a half drive out of the city.

Most people don't spontaneously camp in the rain. But for us, this was actually a pleasant surprise. We didn't have reservations, and since sites typically are filled Saturday night, the rain allowed us to find spot and pitch our tent. Just down the hill from our campground we discovered a marina where Davey could have spent the entire weekend scooping and throwing rocks.

We even took our first family picture in months. (Notice Davey in the background)

In order to convince Davey to leave the water, we promised a fire, hot dogs, and smores. This is where David would have given our trip 4 1/2 stars out of five. We've never camped in the Northwest, and neglected to bring along an axe. Needless to say, our fire making abilities were not up to par. My husband is quite resourceful, so a few flames were sparked, and dinner was managed, however the real blaze wasn't discovered until the following morning.

No axe? Just make sure you have a good knife!

Throughout the weekend we adored watching Davey experience his first camping trip. When bed time approached, he repeatedly asked to, "go go". His entire sleeping has been spent in a crib, bed, or pack n play. However, having mom and dad next to him in our tent gave him enough security to sleep well. Probably the best out of all of us.

The next day was filled with new explorations. We discovered a snail on the hiking trail,

stomped our way through mud while tide-pooling,

and caught a wild crab, which was set free of course.

Davey's favorite part, and mine, was turning over rocks to look for crabs and other creatures. I kept giggling in amazement at the amount of life under one rock. It was definitely a moment to remember. Residency has taught us to treasure these times so when the 3:50 am alarm blares us awake we have something to smile about and carry with us during the day.

The Hermit Gene

In recent years I learned a valuable lesson from my dad. He and I share a common characteristic, the hermit gene. I'm most comfortable at home, I don't mind being alone, and it takes an enormous amount of effort for me to enter new places and mingle. My husband nicknamed me the chihuahua after my last try at group interaction. I was so nervous being alone that I began to shake. Quite like that of a dripping wet, skinny, little dog.

Since our 5 week start in Seattle I've regretted that stubborn little trait and have tried desperately to overcome it. I do realize the benefit of being an introvert when my husband is simply a roommate I'm trying to keep alive with food and a spot to sleep. However, I too realize my need for relationships. So each week I drag Davey off to parks, markets, wading pools, and churches. Seattle is quite the city to explore and since it's summer we haven't even gotten that wet. If I could just trade in that pesky van for something easier to park it would be even more enjoyable.

The only real problem with our outings is that we haven't met anyone. Although I am pushing myself away from our cozy apartment, I haven't been pushing myself to strike up conversations. It does take us hermits a bit longer to warm up to people so since we've been here a month, I think it's time for me to try talking to other Washingtonians. Some say they're the friendliest of people. I do think I'm almost ready. My nervous shaking habit is almost gone now. You'd only notice it if you looked at my left eye and found it twitching. I'm not quite sure what David would nickname me now. What kind of creature has an eye that twitches?

A Sunny Weekend in Seattle

Eight days into David's residency he received 2 days off. The weather was beautiful and our time was well spent. I knew my husband was going to be tired so I carefully searched for nearby events to prevent him from sleeping all day. To my surprise, I came across the words Wooden Boat Show. If there's anything David loves, it's boats. He was easily lured out of the house and since we live so close to Lake Union we just had to walk down one of Seattle's steep hills rather than search for parking.

Everything was free and there were activities galore. Davey made a boat, or rather watched his dad make one. We walked onto large sail boats, enjoyed a picnic lunch, splashed through a sprinkler, and finished the day messing up our faces with waffle cones. The only activity we missed out on was a free boat ride. We weren't too disappointed though, there's still plenty of summer left to find our way out onto the water.

It's great spending time as a family again. I didn't have to listen to Davey say, "Dada go go", eat three meals alone, or watch the 4:30 am news. The next leg in residency will last 12 days and approximately 160 hours. I'm already looking forward to our next weekend together and at least I'll have plenty of time to plan our outing.