This week, I've been at my parent's house, and been very nostalgic.There is a lot of work I need to do as a young mother. Yes, I know with my five months of experience. I have lacked in so many areanas (already). Who would of guessed? I can be perilous with to-do-lists. In fact, my list of things-to-do manages to disappear into a vast meridan of a black void. I have had a lot of time to contemplate my future and current motherly endeavours. Mostly, there is much work to be done with myself.
- I need to cook at home more. This summer, I have been lucky enough to be living with my mother-in-law, while B is away. She insists on always cooking, and not letting me worry. She has homemade bread, and jam on the table every morning. This is something I want to accomplish in the future; everyday homemade, healthy meals. I have wasted too many meals on junk. I hope to acquire a healthy regiment for my family.
- The Three R's (Reducing, reusing, and recycling). My husband and I have been fantastic at recycling. I agree with Lynette, recyling has cut our trash take-out by a significant amount, and leaves much-to-nothing to throw away. However, I am not too great on reducing and reusing. I have a lot of things lying around the apartment that I do not need. There are things I want at the time. However, as far as really "needing" it, there are far more important big ticket items I need to save for. I can raise a "green" family-by doing it simply and inexpensively.
- Outdoor activities. I can get caught up with my indoor projects. More-so-than-often, I have worked on a project without the reality of knowing when day has turned into night. I really want to engage myself physically again. Not only for my own health, but for the well being of my child.
- No television. I can not believe how much time I waste with a television in front of me. This doesn't mean I do not want a TV. I just don't want cable, or satellite. I have seen television sets in every kids room, and I do not think this is the route to go. I believe in the art of film, and family film. Now, don't get angry with me. There are so many degrees of television-watching that can be extreme, and educational. However, I believe there should be a proportioned amount of TV watching. I believe learning should be more conducive to creative and wholesome living. Do I sound like a parent or what?
- Self-sufficient. I have always envisioned an organic garden, and being more self-sufficient. My husband and I will be city dwellers for a few years, and will always be on the move. Yes, I can sustain an indoor garden (or possible greenhouse) in small living spaces. I never imagined I find and interest in the world of horticulture.
- Volunteer Work. Yes, the baby has been keeping me occupied. I can not exactly bring the mai tai and baby to the homeless shelter. However, there have been other methods of service that have been efficient for me. I would like to set aside one day where I can devote a few hours to sewing in making burping cloths, baby blankets, and cloth dolls. I, also, have learned that the Ronald McDonald house collects the tabs off of aluminum cans. This would not be time consuming, and would effectively help Ronald McDonald. I am trying other methods in getting the baby involved as well. Perhaps, a walk to the local parks and picking up trash. Just keeping it simple, until she walks ;)
I know that many my endeavours will be precedent over time. I certainly do not have the cures to all the world's maladies. I am still figuring out the blessings of motherhood "day by day".
