A lot of heavy stuff has been on my mind lately, not the nicest way to start a blog! I’m feeling more refreshed this week, maybe it’s the new Grapefruit scented body lotion I started using? They say that citrus is an invigorating scent. It must be working! Granted, I didn’t jump out of bed or anything, but how could you when it’s 7° out?! Even my child was irritated when I went in to get him ready for school, and he’s usually all smiles. (Note to self, teach child to speak better to find out how he always wakes up in a good mood). Poor thing didn’t want to change out of his pjs! I’m all for seasons, but I hate extreme weather. Thankfully, January is almost over and February is a short month!
Like every other red-blooded American, I am trying to figure out ways to save money. One thing I have been working on is couponing. It’s not difficult, just time consuming. I put it to use this weekend and got some great results – full groceries under $100! I even bought the huge pack of diapers. Pretty amazing! I just have to get the meal planning aspect down and I think it will be much better. And then….there’s baby on the way….not sure how he/she will impact the grocery bill yet. I have some time to figure that out…
Before I forget, I am also still trying to figure out how to structure a day at home without work. I had this idea about writing down all the activities I want to do that are impossible because I work. Then, as I think about this I remember if I am not working, some of the stuff won’t happen because I won’t have the extra income, but I won’t let that distract me!! Here’s a list of a few things I would like to do:
- Go to the museum
- Visit the playground with the kids
- Go to the library for story times/clubs
- Go to the gym
- Grocery shop on a Tuesday morning (I have this idea that no one will be there on Tuesday mornings)
- Join a mommy-group
- Ride my bike more
- Shop
- Cook more often
I envision this idyllic June Cleaver-like existence without the skirt, heels and pearls, where my house is spotless and everyone is smiling. I know the reality is not like that. I hate to clean; I am still trying to figure out how to get that done with my 2 year old awake. I’m naturally prone to avoiding overly strenuous situations, for example, any errand that requires me to get my kid in and out of the car seat more than 2x is out. The fight isn’t worth it. Plus, most of my ideas center on warm weather, so a lot of that is out in the winter months. Ugh, I could use some ideas! Anyone want to chime in? I’m all ears (eyes).
Laura,
ReplyDeleteOlivia was only 18 months when Jack was born. So what I did to prepare was I bought a book of indoor/rainy day activities and had it prepared before Jack was born. I bought or found in my house the items needed for the craft(s) and was prepared to pull something out at the drop of the hat. You can even join a mom's group now. Get to know the mom's before baby #2 arrives. Let me know if you need any book suggestions or more ideas for at home play. We had to stay indoors for 2 two months after Jack was born and couldn't have our playdates because Olivia had rsv. So preparing now is a great thing!
Genette
Hi Genette,
ReplyDeleteThanks for commenting! Those are great ideas, I will look into that. I see you addressed this to a Laura, is that someone you know?
Thanks!
Sorry! A friend of mine posted this blog on her fb page and assumed it was her blog. Good luck with your new blog!
ReplyDeleteGenette
I'm laughing with ya! You may never be a June - I know some but I am not. Certainly not! I didn't start wearing heels (in the form of heeled boots) until my kids were 7 and 3 - rarely put together, figured out how to make 2nd day hair look GREAT. (=
ReplyDeleteI *love* your to-do list. Pick one a week (or month, if that's more feasible) and get it done! Change doesn't happen quickly, so don't rush to do all at once.
To address the strenuous stuff: if at all possible, make it fun! It's hard work for you, but it less stressful for the kids & you. Some tips - have a basket of special toys that only come out when the phone rings. Homemade play-do (super easy), dollar store toys, the tupperware drawer are great for the phone times. Special toys in the car - they stay in the car (and rotate every so often). Electronic toys, doodle-pros, Color Wonder coloring, great for the car.
Make it fun - keep talking to the kid(s) - distraction works wonders. (= Talk about oolors around you, ABCs in the grocery store if he's old enough. Make a shopping list FOR him - draw and color pics of the things he is to find and "shop" for.
Hi Lindsey,
ReplyDeleteThanks for all your comments, they are great! I am in the process of getting some games together and ideas for quick distractions. You're right, it isn't easy, but I know it will be better in the long run. I really like the shopping list idea, I think he will love that!
I am impressed at all you do! I aspire to be a more productive mom. I want my kids to see me do things not shying away from the world.
Keep giving me your thoughts, I really appreciate them!