Too Much Time on My Hands

David has accused me of this on numerous times. Since becoming the full time stay at home mom I've discovered the wonderful world of craft blogs. Apparently these have been around for quite awhile, however my duties to teaching and mothering didn't leave time for any hobbies. Let's just say I have a lot of time these days, a lot. Granted most of my day is spent playing with David, running errands, and mustering up enough energy to keep a home, I am still left twiddling my thumbs waiting for Dave to return home.

So I've taken up some crafting projects to occupy my time and mind. The only problem I've found is that crafts take money, which is just not something we have laying around. I'm still determined to fund my fabric, paper, and thrift store finds, but they just might have to wait awhile. The area I'm hoping to squeeze a few cents out of is our grocery bill. It's not going to be easy since I've quickly become quite the food snob by moving to Washington. David and I have decided it's impossible not to, the food is just that good.

I now understand how an entire episode of Seinfeld could be devoted to peaches. The typical grocery store peach just won't do anymore. Also, Seattle's local Beecher's cheeses can be found everywhere. They tend to call my name as I walk by. There's even a food truck that carries Beecher's Mac and Cheese. If we're going to save money on food they'd better keep me away from that truck. I've decided that if you want your food to taste good you'd better stick to the farmer's markets, butcher shops, or the traveling truck.

However, something has to give. I am not a frugal shopper, however I would like to take strides to become something closer to that. One suggestion I've found is to buy as little prepackaged items as possible. When I look at our pantry we've got everything from bread and cereals, to canned soups and broth. I am not a natural in the kitchen so I can't change overnight, but I have made it my goal to try one new thing from scratch each week and go from there. This week it's bread. We'll see how that turns out.

Although I'd much rather spend my time breaking out the sewing machine, or heating up the hot glue gun, I know feeding my family is a better use of my time. Maybe I'll even fall in love with cooking or actually cook something people want to eat...that would be quite the change. If nothing else, hopefully my cooking changes can allow me to purchase the curtain rods and fabric for our windows.

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.