Beautiful blue skies and sunshine greets the morning of Thursday. Today is my day to talk about sustainable living practices, and I guess I do have something to chat about on this subject. Of course, it goes back to gardening, which has been the spotlight of sustainability for us for a few months now.
This week, we've been starting seeds for the late summer planting schedule. Corn, sunflowers, mixing greens & lettuce seeds for a nice patch of yumminess-is that really a word? Radishes, carrots, onions and such will go directly in at the time they need to. Oh, and I started cabbage seeds, too. Late peas will go directly in as well. So far, our garden has given us herbs, a few radishes, peas (shell & sugar snap), and bush beans. Waiting on the rest to bring forth the fruit of the season. August will also be the month I start my canning; I didn't make strawberry jam this year, as we've still so much of it from last year. Right now is peak season for raspberries and blueberries but still not sure if we will take part in this seasonal ritual of harvesting for our food stores. We'll see what the next couple of weeks brings. If too late, we can always plan for next year and still be good.
Flipping through "Sleeping with a Sunflower," and looking over the activities for August. Companion planting, time frames for planting in August, canning and preserving, how to fish by the moon cycles. Good stuff, old stuff. Then, there's a piece on using foods for natural dyes. I've used red cabbage, red onions, yellow onions, spinach, and beets for dyes on Easter eggs; I've not once bought a conventional egg dyeing kit, as I've not found one that is chemical free. The natural dyes can also be used for dying wool fiber for those colorful items known as sweaters, hats, and mittens. Scarves are in there, too. I've yet to do that, and I think it would be fun. The chapter ends on the note about eating puffballs for breakfast. Now, for those who know what puffballs are, I gotta tell ya, I didn't know you could eat these. Of course, it helps when you harvest them when they're still waxy and fresh. Once they go to dry and ready to spread spores, let them alone. Of course, who can resist stepping on them and watching the "smoke" rise off the ground? Those are tiny spores, millions of them to take off and make more puffballs. I remember actually getting a chance to eat a slice of one that was the size of a basketball; imagine this giant mushroom but there's no catapillar, Alice. It was actually really good.
So, sleeping with a sunflower and eating puffballs for breakfast can be food for thought today. How many natural resources do you rely upon? Do you grow your own food? Questions to ponder today as you walk along the path to your destination. Enjoy! ~Momma
Thursday, July 28, 2011
Wednesday, July 27, 2011
Thoughts and Goals
Wednesday is here-have we already surpassed two days? Yes, we have. Today is our day to bake, and we've not baked a cake in two weeks; who wanted to last week with the extreme heat? We would have baked right here in the house, along with the cake! A day to spend on the back porch once my "chores" are done, and taking each moment as it comes. Comtemplating plans for the ECHO and for our weekly trip to the library.
My thoughts this morning seem to keep going back to books that I'm currently reading. Granted I'm reading them in chunks, as being a busy SAHM (stay-at-home mom) doesn't give me the time to read like I once had but I take what I can when it comes to quiet time for myself. So far this week, my oldest is taking an afternoon nap-can we say miracle? This, when combined with a napping one year old is like heaven. So far, I've taken the time to catch a show I've been meaning to watch (Netflix) or catch up on my reading. During those times, I also found myself just sitting and thinking about many different things that color my world. My reading lists seem to jump to the forefront, though. I'm getting ready to close a chapter in my reading life with the online study I've been a part of for almost ten weeks now. Reopening old wounds, doors that seemed once locked for eternity are now flung wide open. Looking at my life, foregiving the hurts and disappointments. I feel as if I'm standing in front of a full length mirror, taking a good, hard and long look at who I am. Where I've come from and where I stand today; knowing these helps project me to where I'm going for the future. I am marked by my experiences, being shaped into the woman I am yet to become. Setting those Gucci bags of bitterness, fear, and despair so far is the hardest thing to do but will be the most rewarding for the rest of my life. I can't white-wash my past but I can learn from it and let it go so it doesn't control my present or my future. My present needs me and my future will be shaped by the choices I make today. Hidden Joy in a Dark Corner has been a good read. I wonder if I'll take part in the study to follow. We'll see what happens.
I've also been reading Kitchen Table Wisdom, and to be honest, its been a hard read for me. Dr. Remen weaves her personal experiences of being a Crohn's Disease patient into the fabric of some of her many patients going through their own experiences. Most, if not just about all, of the stories I've read have been about cancer patients. And each story is different, with the color of reality of what cancer does to the patient diagnosed and the people in their lives. This book came at a time when I needed it the most. My maternal grandmother-mom's mom-passed away on Good Friday this year, after seven months from date of diagnosis: pancreatic cancer. I saw her when she was first diagnosed and three weeks before she passed. I kept in touch by phone, sending pictures through texting so she could see my boys and their lives. Its not the same as being present but its what I could do as she went through hospital stays, procedures, and treatments. In March, she said enough. She had her fill of what modern medicine was-and wasn't-doing for her. As she has always been the matriarch of my mother's family, this is the hardest hit we've ever experienced. With three and a little more months having passed since she transitioned to an eternity in heaven (I'm truly convinced she's there), we are still in a mode of numbness. Family gatherings, special events-we stumble along like zombie cattle. She's always been the center of it all, doing whatever she could to make each get together a memory.
My reading is bringing me to a level of a sort of understanding of what was going on for her, how her passing is affecting us, and what it means to continue living-because this is what she wants for all of us. I feel spiritually raw, emotionally exposed. And yet, the small, still voice speaks to me of a time coming when true understanding is on the horizon. To help with this transition for myself, I'm reading a third book, based on meditation for women. What I've learned so far in life, we pray for answers, healing, help. What we don't do often enough is to meditate to hear the response to our petitions. I'm learning, I'm learning.
So, my goals? To finish the three books in question-please see my book list of spiritually inspired books (leave out the Shadows book, as I've not picked it back up just yet), and to move back into the world of reading, researching, and writing. I've rough sketched what I want to focus on, finding inspiration in events and opportunities that are presenting themselves presently, and going with the flow of life as to where I'll be in the times to come.
With these thoughts posted, along with a brief burp of my goals, I'm off to bake cake, clean the garage, play with some visual artwork on the back porch, and love every moment I have with my boys. Life is good. The cardinals call to each other, embraced by the morning's singing of robins calling the sun to rise, the blue jays sending the squirrels scattering, and the weather waxes and wanes, so we're going to do what we can today. Enjoy! ~Momma
My thoughts this morning seem to keep going back to books that I'm currently reading. Granted I'm reading them in chunks, as being a busy SAHM (stay-at-home mom) doesn't give me the time to read like I once had but I take what I can when it comes to quiet time for myself. So far this week, my oldest is taking an afternoon nap-can we say miracle? This, when combined with a napping one year old is like heaven. So far, I've taken the time to catch a show I've been meaning to watch (Netflix) or catch up on my reading. During those times, I also found myself just sitting and thinking about many different things that color my world. My reading lists seem to jump to the forefront, though. I'm getting ready to close a chapter in my reading life with the online study I've been a part of for almost ten weeks now. Reopening old wounds, doors that seemed once locked for eternity are now flung wide open. Looking at my life, foregiving the hurts and disappointments. I feel as if I'm standing in front of a full length mirror, taking a good, hard and long look at who I am. Where I've come from and where I stand today; knowing these helps project me to where I'm going for the future. I am marked by my experiences, being shaped into the woman I am yet to become. Setting those Gucci bags of bitterness, fear, and despair so far is the hardest thing to do but will be the most rewarding for the rest of my life. I can't white-wash my past but I can learn from it and let it go so it doesn't control my present or my future. My present needs me and my future will be shaped by the choices I make today. Hidden Joy in a Dark Corner has been a good read. I wonder if I'll take part in the study to follow. We'll see what happens.
I've also been reading Kitchen Table Wisdom, and to be honest, its been a hard read for me. Dr. Remen weaves her personal experiences of being a Crohn's Disease patient into the fabric of some of her many patients going through their own experiences. Most, if not just about all, of the stories I've read have been about cancer patients. And each story is different, with the color of reality of what cancer does to the patient diagnosed and the people in their lives. This book came at a time when I needed it the most. My maternal grandmother-mom's mom-passed away on Good Friday this year, after seven months from date of diagnosis: pancreatic cancer. I saw her when she was first diagnosed and three weeks before she passed. I kept in touch by phone, sending pictures through texting so she could see my boys and their lives. Its not the same as being present but its what I could do as she went through hospital stays, procedures, and treatments. In March, she said enough. She had her fill of what modern medicine was-and wasn't-doing for her. As she has always been the matriarch of my mother's family, this is the hardest hit we've ever experienced. With three and a little more months having passed since she transitioned to an eternity in heaven (I'm truly convinced she's there), we are still in a mode of numbness. Family gatherings, special events-we stumble along like zombie cattle. She's always been the center of it all, doing whatever she could to make each get together a memory.
My reading is bringing me to a level of a sort of understanding of what was going on for her, how her passing is affecting us, and what it means to continue living-because this is what she wants for all of us. I feel spiritually raw, emotionally exposed. And yet, the small, still voice speaks to me of a time coming when true understanding is on the horizon. To help with this transition for myself, I'm reading a third book, based on meditation for women. What I've learned so far in life, we pray for answers, healing, help. What we don't do often enough is to meditate to hear the response to our petitions. I'm learning, I'm learning.
So, my goals? To finish the three books in question-please see my book list of spiritually inspired books (leave out the Shadows book, as I've not picked it back up just yet), and to move back into the world of reading, researching, and writing. I've rough sketched what I want to focus on, finding inspiration in events and opportunities that are presenting themselves presently, and going with the flow of life as to where I'll be in the times to come.
With these thoughts posted, along with a brief burp of my goals, I'm off to bake cake, clean the garage, play with some visual artwork on the back porch, and love every moment I have with my boys. Life is good. The cardinals call to each other, embraced by the morning's singing of robins calling the sun to rise, the blue jays sending the squirrels scattering, and the weather waxes and wanes, so we're going to do what we can today. Enjoy! ~Momma
Tuesday, July 26, 2011
Tuesday Morning & Housework Almost Done
Here I sit, 20 mins before 8 AM graces our presence. My daily chores almost done; just dusting-my enemy-and mopping to finish off my list. I can't complain about how doing the Ten Min Method minimizes how my once a week chores are done-hhmmm, can you say so much faster now that I have those down, too? It took two weekends to get my Weekly Speed-Cleaning Chores into practice and not feel overwhelmed by the process; funny how something feels foreign at first glance, and then when you get your hands into the pudding, it starts to make sense. My current book of choice, The Family Manager Takes Charge, which I've listed on my reading list and have talked about in past postings, is where I continue to find the tidbits to get me motivated to give our home a facelift. The weekly chores are cut into groups, focusing on specific rooms with specific tasks. Here's a sample of my list.
Kitchen
-Wipe down large appliances
-Wipe down windowsills
-Disinfect trash/recycling cans, replace liners
Living areas
-Clean windows
-Recycle papers
-Plump up cushions
Bedrooms
-Laundry
-Sweep & mop floors
-Strip & remake beds
Bathroom
-Change out towels
-Clean tub/shower
-Empty trash
A sample, like I said, as my list is actually longer than that. I don't exactly consider myself a domestic goddess, as I've always treated housework as, well just that: work. Yes, there are things to do each day, things that can wait to be done once a week, and even things that can be tackled a few times during the course of the year. Housework was always projected to me as drudgery, something to despise and leave for someone else to do. What I've learned is that being domestic is NOT being domesticated. You are not chained to the stove, forced to work in less than desirable conditions, and if you are, start rethinking why you're in that position. I didn't grow up desiring to be a housewife; I sort of fell into it. For me, organizing, decorating, gardening, and sustainable living practices gives me a different view of what it means to do housework. Now, I see it as artistic domestic skills EVERYONE should have some knowledge of. If you are part of a family unit, helping out shouldn't be view as waterboarding. No one is forcing you to pitch in, but the extra set of hands now and then do help. Afterall, family time spent having fun is better than grumbling over a chore or two. Who wants to spend family time cleaning? I've heard of families who clean together and have a good time but I gotta say, we're not there YET.
The sun is streaming through our front window, and the storm clouds loom in the back. With the forecast of a storm coming in today, its best to take advantage of the day and go with the flow. After all, my housework is done; I can spend the rest of the day with my boys and then when its time, make dinner and relax into the evening. Of course, its Task Master Tuesday, which means there's a list of other things to do as well but those things are not high priority; more like, if there's a moment of opportunity, I'll get to them. My guys won't be little forever, and every moment I've got with them now is priceless. So, to the homemakers of the world, enjoy the day, try to see chores as something more positive (easier said than done), and know that each day will not be like the day before or the days to come. ~Momma
Kitchen
-Wipe down large appliances
-Wipe down windowsills
-Disinfect trash/recycling cans, replace liners
Living areas
-Clean windows
-Recycle papers
-Plump up cushions
Bedrooms
-Laundry
-Sweep & mop floors
-Strip & remake beds
Bathroom
-Change out towels
-Clean tub/shower
-Empty trash
A sample, like I said, as my list is actually longer than that. I don't exactly consider myself a domestic goddess, as I've always treated housework as, well just that: work. Yes, there are things to do each day, things that can wait to be done once a week, and even things that can be tackled a few times during the course of the year. Housework was always projected to me as drudgery, something to despise and leave for someone else to do. What I've learned is that being domestic is NOT being domesticated. You are not chained to the stove, forced to work in less than desirable conditions, and if you are, start rethinking why you're in that position. I didn't grow up desiring to be a housewife; I sort of fell into it. For me, organizing, decorating, gardening, and sustainable living practices gives me a different view of what it means to do housework. Now, I see it as artistic domestic skills EVERYONE should have some knowledge of. If you are part of a family unit, helping out shouldn't be view as waterboarding. No one is forcing you to pitch in, but the extra set of hands now and then do help. Afterall, family time spent having fun is better than grumbling over a chore or two. Who wants to spend family time cleaning? I've heard of families who clean together and have a good time but I gotta say, we're not there YET.
The sun is streaming through our front window, and the storm clouds loom in the back. With the forecast of a storm coming in today, its best to take advantage of the day and go with the flow. After all, my housework is done; I can spend the rest of the day with my boys and then when its time, make dinner and relax into the evening. Of course, its Task Master Tuesday, which means there's a list of other things to do as well but those things are not high priority; more like, if there's a moment of opportunity, I'll get to them. My guys won't be little forever, and every moment I've got with them now is priceless. So, to the homemakers of the world, enjoy the day, try to see chores as something more positive (easier said than done), and know that each day will not be like the day before or the days to come. ~Momma
Monday, July 25, 2011
Monday Morning Catch Up Lists
Its Monday again. Recovering from the weekend today, with lists of things to catch up on, ideas to do with the boys, and taking each moment as we can. Some days, it seems like it never ends.
A good weekend to be had. Sun, trying to stay cool. Went to mass with just my preschooler; I think my one year old is in a nap cycle that will of course, change when he's ready to try something new. New things happening with the church, thoughts of maybe getting involved. I've got the once a week cleaning thing down that I've yet to share with everyone as to how it works and what applies to us here on our homestead. Taking notes to get caught up with my online study that I've embarked on for almost ten weeks now; should be good to finish next week. Its been worth the time. Brainstorming how I will tackle my next venture, which is to organize the garage and get back into the business of soap making and other products I've started a couple of years back. If there's a will, there's a way.
So, as this post will be a short one for today, you've read my rattle off of mental check lists, I leave you with this thought: when events and such pile up and seem to resemble a corner of a hoarder's house, how do you tackle what needs attention? Food for thought. ~Momma
A good weekend to be had. Sun, trying to stay cool. Went to mass with just my preschooler; I think my one year old is in a nap cycle that will of course, change when he's ready to try something new. New things happening with the church, thoughts of maybe getting involved. I've got the once a week cleaning thing down that I've yet to share with everyone as to how it works and what applies to us here on our homestead. Taking notes to get caught up with my online study that I've embarked on for almost ten weeks now; should be good to finish next week. Its been worth the time. Brainstorming how I will tackle my next venture, which is to organize the garage and get back into the business of soap making and other products I've started a couple of years back. If there's a will, there's a way.
So, as this post will be a short one for today, you've read my rattle off of mental check lists, I leave you with this thought: when events and such pile up and seem to resemble a corner of a hoarder's house, how do you tackle what needs attention? Food for thought. ~Momma
Friday, July 22, 2011
Catching Up And Diving In
Wow, can you say its been a week? We downgraded our cable services, as we are looking and cutting into our budget these days; there's always a way or more to save money, and when it comes to needs vs wants, making the decision and following through can be groundbreaking. With other ways to watch shows we like or find new ones to follow, its not as bad as I projected it to be. Its amazing what you can live without. Personally, I have to admit, I'm hooked on tv. Not addicted but I could be denying that. When I don't have access to tv, it doesn't bother me. When I do, and its a full package to watch anything under the sun, look out. I could sit for days, in a daze. With changing our cable package, I can take it or leave it. The kids watch a couple of shows on VPT (Vermont Public Television) or a show on NetFlix. I catch something I like when I can. Otherwise, we're outside or sometimes listening to music. Change is good.
Tuesday, my Task Master day, was met with the usual go-get 'em attitude. Lists made, things done. Wednesday was hot death, as was yesterday. OMG....today is projected to be another hot one but down in humidity %'s from the last couple of days. Thankfully. Today is more about getting caught up with things but keeping our frame of Friday mind-going with the flow of the day. Days at the park and then diving into the kiddie pool have been great ways to get my boys to fall asleep by 9 pm at the latest and sleep most, if not all night. Can't complain about that. I'm also exhausted by the end of the day but I think it might be more heat related than not. So it goes.
I'm back into journaling, as I've been embarking on an online study these past eight weeks. A real eye-opening experience for me. Memories, questions, thoughts, fears, contemplation. Some things I've not wanted to re-examine but with time, it is paying off. Time to put the bags on the curb, open them, decide what really needs to be let go of, and move on with life. Yesterday, I set up my traveling easel on the back porch, next to my preschooler's easel. In the process of organizing the garage, I could only find two canvases that have already been stretched and treated (with paint typical for setting canvas to be worked upon), so I grabbed them and set one on my easel. With only oil pastels at my fingertips, I snapped those up and started working. My focus is the large red maple that sits in the very center of our backyard. There's something about that tree I just love. Not sure what it is but perhaps I'll discover that along the way.
So, here's to catching up and diving into the weekend to come. I can't believe its Friday already and wondering if other moms/women have those moments when you wonder where the time goes. Time waits for no one, therefore, its good to live and appreciate the priceless moments. Have a great day and fabulous weekend! ~Momma
"A tree is known by its fruit;
a man by his deeds.
A good deed is never lost;
he who sows courtesy reaps friendship,
and he who plants kindness gathers love."
-St. Basil (329-379)
Tuesday, my Task Master day, was met with the usual go-get 'em attitude. Lists made, things done. Wednesday was hot death, as was yesterday. OMG....today is projected to be another hot one but down in humidity %'s from the last couple of days. Thankfully. Today is more about getting caught up with things but keeping our frame of Friday mind-going with the flow of the day. Days at the park and then diving into the kiddie pool have been great ways to get my boys to fall asleep by 9 pm at the latest and sleep most, if not all night. Can't complain about that. I'm also exhausted by the end of the day but I think it might be more heat related than not. So it goes.
I'm back into journaling, as I've been embarking on an online study these past eight weeks. A real eye-opening experience for me. Memories, questions, thoughts, fears, contemplation. Some things I've not wanted to re-examine but with time, it is paying off. Time to put the bags on the curb, open them, decide what really needs to be let go of, and move on with life. Yesterday, I set up my traveling easel on the back porch, next to my preschooler's easel. In the process of organizing the garage, I could only find two canvases that have already been stretched and treated (with paint typical for setting canvas to be worked upon), so I grabbed them and set one on my easel. With only oil pastels at my fingertips, I snapped those up and started working. My focus is the large red maple that sits in the very center of our backyard. There's something about that tree I just love. Not sure what it is but perhaps I'll discover that along the way.
So, here's to catching up and diving into the weekend to come. I can't believe its Friday already and wondering if other moms/women have those moments when you wonder where the time goes. Time waits for no one, therefore, its good to live and appreciate the priceless moments. Have a great day and fabulous weekend! ~Momma
"A tree is known by its fruit;
a man by his deeds.
A good deed is never lost;
he who sows courtesy reaps friendship,
and he who plants kindness gathers love."
-St. Basil (329-379)
Monday, July 18, 2011
Having a Heat Wave.....?
Monday comes with the potential of rain but high temps. I'd be ok with high temps, as I lived out in the upper mid-west years ago but its the humidity that will knock you flat here in New England. Of course, the south and deeper into Texas has a heat index I don't care for; no reason for me to leave the comforts of the green mountain state. I love mountains, green grass meadows, the lake....I do have a passion for the ocean but can get that from going to the Cape, part of Rhode Island, New Hampshire coastline. Maybe someday to visit the coastline of the Carolinas but only on vacation, not to live there. Guess I'm settled on where I am. I love to travel, to see new places but when it comes to returning somewhere, I know where home is. That being said, let's move on.
My mind is turning with tasks to jump on, dreams swirling in my memory from the last couple of nights, my desire to be creative, and my new niche of organizing are all sitting at the breakfast table this morning. Who invited everybody? Oh yeah, that was me. My mind is sketching a list of things, as usual. I spend time thinking while awake, dreaming while asleep; one of my sisters coined this comment a few days ago, and I agree with her. It is like that most of the time. That's why I love posting in the mornings. Clears my mind. Oh, here's my list....the mind list.
1. Start organizing garage
2. Gardening (transplanting & pulling bulbs)
3. Organize travel easel to work on creative moments (side by side with my preschooler's easel)
4. Pick up materials to continue organizing addiction
I finally figured out why organizing is finding a way into my life. I'm not embarking on this quest to impress anyone, not doing it because of expectations. I'm doing it because I have time to do so. Its about time for me; my boys are growing, showing fierce independence for what they can do at this time in their lives (four [almost] and one years old), which frees me up at times to tackle tasks I've left behind to give them my time. Now, I can hit those tasks, getting into stuff long put aside, which in the long run, especially being a mom whose intentions are to homeschool as long as I can, affords me more time with my boys; and in the end, more time for myself. All women need a time to recharge their internal batteries. I'm all for it, and a good night's sleep one of these days.
So, here's to today, its ever changing weather, my singing birds, my precious boys, and to the endless possibilities waiting to unfold. ~Momma
My mind is turning with tasks to jump on, dreams swirling in my memory from the last couple of nights, my desire to be creative, and my new niche of organizing are all sitting at the breakfast table this morning. Who invited everybody? Oh yeah, that was me. My mind is sketching a list of things, as usual. I spend time thinking while awake, dreaming while asleep; one of my sisters coined this comment a few days ago, and I agree with her. It is like that most of the time. That's why I love posting in the mornings. Clears my mind. Oh, here's my list....the mind list.
1. Start organizing garage
2. Gardening (transplanting & pulling bulbs)
3. Organize travel easel to work on creative moments (side by side with my preschooler's easel)
4. Pick up materials to continue organizing addiction
I finally figured out why organizing is finding a way into my life. I'm not embarking on this quest to impress anyone, not doing it because of expectations. I'm doing it because I have time to do so. Its about time for me; my boys are growing, showing fierce independence for what they can do at this time in their lives (four [almost] and one years old), which frees me up at times to tackle tasks I've left behind to give them my time. Now, I can hit those tasks, getting into stuff long put aside, which in the long run, especially being a mom whose intentions are to homeschool as long as I can, affords me more time with my boys; and in the end, more time for myself. All women need a time to recharge their internal batteries. I'm all for it, and a good night's sleep one of these days.
So, here's to today, its ever changing weather, my singing birds, my precious boys, and to the endless possibilities waiting to unfold. ~Momma
Thursday, July 14, 2011
Hooked on the New Book
Yes, I'm a book junkie. I admit it. I had a shoe fetish once, too but since those days, shoes are the last thing on my mind. So, I turn to my other vice. The written word. Books, books, books. If I see a pile of books that have a sign over them screaming "FREE!", I can't walk past. Doesn't happen. I stop. Actually, I make a traffic halting beeline for the books. I have to feed my need. The equivilent to a crackhouse is the library. So is the bookstore but with the library, feeding my addiction is free. A visit to the bookstore takes a little more careful planning. How much do I want to spend, can I find a deal or two, and will I get a discount if I show my card?
The book I refer to today is the same one I started talking about on Tuesday's post; please check out Task Master Tuesdays for reference. I mentioned the six excuses we face when attempting to deal-or not deal-with clutter. Today, I give you The Power of Ten Minutes Method. Found in chapter two, "You're the All-Purpose Maid," this list is great for daily use. I put it into practice yesterday, first by composing what applied here in my own home. Then, I set out to test it. Due to the fact I've not done cleaning like this method approaches to cleaning, plus having two little ones demanding my time, it took me all day to try it out. Despite the duration of the initial trial run, I think I like it. I started it this morning as my second day-could be a trial run, could be more permanent. I have fifteen items on my list, and when opportunity presents itself, I set the timer on the stove for ten minutes and tackle three chores at a time. Breakfast, giving the boys 10-20 min chunks of time to play with each other and by themselves gives me some time. Naps work, too. Lunch, another chunk of free play, dinner. Ten minutes really isn't that much time but given my little list, it gives me a moment to switch gears from my teacher role. The added bonus of my "Power of Ten" list is that by the end of the week, when I tackle my new weekly cleaning list, most of the areas I will clean will already be base line cleaned, so the weekly cleaning will be so much easier. Who'da thunk it?
Yes, I know I talk about gardening, sustainable living practices, etc on Thursdays but I just couldn't resist to share with my readers what I'm learning here at home. Although, if you think about it, because I use natural cleaning materials, it does apply to sustainable living practices. Oh, curious about that "Power of Ten" list and what's on it? I'll give you mine as an example.
The Power of Ten Minutes Method (chapter two, pgs 32 & 33)
1. Wipe fridge & put away dishes (dishes done from the night before)
2. Clean bathroom mirrors
3. Dust bedroom (under the beds for dust bunnies)
4. Wipe down switch plates (these buggers get gross quick)
5. Clean off top of fridge
6. Clean cabinet tracks (cloth wrapped around a screwdriver or a plastic spackle knife works well)
7. Wipe down kitchen counter tops & small appliances
8. Vacuum
9. Go through one cabinet/drawer @ a time
10. Clean one shelf in linen closet
11. Dust (I loathe this one)
12. Clean furniture (vacuum, wipe down, etc)
13. Sweep & mop
14. Wipe down toaster oven (we don't have a microwave anymore)
15. Water plants
Probably looks like a lot but really isn't when you break it down. Now, of course, anyone whose children are older & in school or grown and moved away, you might plow through this list without blinking an eye. Forget doing 10 minutes and checking off the list. Just get it done and forget it. For me, all day has moments for me to be a part of; my house will wait for me to go back to the list periodically. My children will not wait to grow, learn, become. Enjoy each and every moment that you can, for life is fleeting and waits for no one. Love, laughter, and blessings. Have a great Thursday! ~Momma
The book I refer to today is the same one I started talking about on Tuesday's post; please check out Task Master Tuesdays for reference. I mentioned the six excuses we face when attempting to deal-or not deal-with clutter. Today, I give you The Power of Ten Minutes Method. Found in chapter two, "You're the All-Purpose Maid," this list is great for daily use. I put it into practice yesterday, first by composing what applied here in my own home. Then, I set out to test it. Due to the fact I've not done cleaning like this method approaches to cleaning, plus having two little ones demanding my time, it took me all day to try it out. Despite the duration of the initial trial run, I think I like it. I started it this morning as my second day-could be a trial run, could be more permanent. I have fifteen items on my list, and when opportunity presents itself, I set the timer on the stove for ten minutes and tackle three chores at a time. Breakfast, giving the boys 10-20 min chunks of time to play with each other and by themselves gives me some time. Naps work, too. Lunch, another chunk of free play, dinner. Ten minutes really isn't that much time but given my little list, it gives me a moment to switch gears from my teacher role. The added bonus of my "Power of Ten" list is that by the end of the week, when I tackle my new weekly cleaning list, most of the areas I will clean will already be base line cleaned, so the weekly cleaning will be so much easier. Who'da thunk it?
Yes, I know I talk about gardening, sustainable living practices, etc on Thursdays but I just couldn't resist to share with my readers what I'm learning here at home. Although, if you think about it, because I use natural cleaning materials, it does apply to sustainable living practices. Oh, curious about that "Power of Ten" list and what's on it? I'll give you mine as an example.
The Power of Ten Minutes Method (chapter two, pgs 32 & 33)
1. Wipe fridge & put away dishes (dishes done from the night before)
2. Clean bathroom mirrors
3. Dust bedroom (under the beds for dust bunnies)
4. Wipe down switch plates (these buggers get gross quick)
5. Clean off top of fridge
6. Clean cabinet tracks (cloth wrapped around a screwdriver or a plastic spackle knife works well)
7. Wipe down kitchen counter tops & small appliances
8. Vacuum
9. Go through one cabinet/drawer @ a time
10. Clean one shelf in linen closet
11. Dust (I loathe this one)
12. Clean furniture (vacuum, wipe down, etc)
13. Sweep & mop
14. Wipe down toaster oven (we don't have a microwave anymore)
15. Water plants
Probably looks like a lot but really isn't when you break it down. Now, of course, anyone whose children are older & in school or grown and moved away, you might plow through this list without blinking an eye. Forget doing 10 minutes and checking off the list. Just get it done and forget it. For me, all day has moments for me to be a part of; my house will wait for me to go back to the list periodically. My children will not wait to grow, learn, become. Enjoy each and every moment that you can, for life is fleeting and waits for no one. Love, laughter, and blessings. Have a great Thursday! ~Momma
Wednesday, July 13, 2011
Wednesday and Cooling Down
At least today is cooler than the last two days have been. Extreme heat and humidity make it so a body just wants to seek out a moving breeze-any cool, moving air will do, really-and bask in it. Today, we can recover from that and make the most of the day ahead. No, today is not a task master day. Not necessarily a gardening day but could have some potential before the rain comes later today. I feel the need to sketch out a brief "To Do List" and take the day to wittle away at it. I have a few things to catch up on, so we'll see what happens.
Yesterday, a trip for a bag of popcorn (kernels to pop but not a microwave bag; we've since gotten rid of the microwave here) took longer than anticipated due to a car accident blocking our way. I felt sad for those being pulled from one of the cars as we waited to be redirected through traffic. I decided to turn around and go around. I've been in accidents but nothing to the degree of having to be placed on a stretcher and taken to the nearest hospital. Pray that I or my kids never have to experience that. Bag of popcorn secured, posting tabs for any of the books I'm reading-highlighting takes too much time for me-and we came back to watch movies for the rest of the day. Snacks, lunch, naps even; yes, my boys both napped at the same time, for the same amount of time, and woke up together to take on the rest of the day. Amazing. I managed a 20 minute power nap myself.
My preschooler is in need of baking a cake today, so its a carrot cake to smother in cream cheese frosting later on. Yummy. We have some reading to catch up on, along with reorganizing his flash card box. Maybe the pool before the weather turns. Ideas, ideas, ideas. Go with the flow, Momma. Make the most of every moment but don't fail to embrace the moments that come in a flash, and become memories before you can blink.
As my sentimental emotions begin to well, I come to the end of this post. I enjoy the time I set aside to write, giving myself a few minutes to empty my mind, to breathe and recharge. My day calls to me but not to just be a task master or crazy urban farmer. It calls me forth to embrace the day with my children, to make the most of the moments I have with them. To teach, to share, to experience, to laugh, to love. They are little now but will not remain so. Love endures.
~Momma
Yesterday, a trip for a bag of popcorn (kernels to pop but not a microwave bag; we've since gotten rid of the microwave here) took longer than anticipated due to a car accident blocking our way. I felt sad for those being pulled from one of the cars as we waited to be redirected through traffic. I decided to turn around and go around. I've been in accidents but nothing to the degree of having to be placed on a stretcher and taken to the nearest hospital. Pray that I or my kids never have to experience that. Bag of popcorn secured, posting tabs for any of the books I'm reading-highlighting takes too much time for me-and we came back to watch movies for the rest of the day. Snacks, lunch, naps even; yes, my boys both napped at the same time, for the same amount of time, and woke up together to take on the rest of the day. Amazing. I managed a 20 minute power nap myself.
My preschooler is in need of baking a cake today, so its a carrot cake to smother in cream cheese frosting later on. Yummy. We have some reading to catch up on, along with reorganizing his flash card box. Maybe the pool before the weather turns. Ideas, ideas, ideas. Go with the flow, Momma. Make the most of every moment but don't fail to embrace the moments that come in a flash, and become memories before you can blink.
As my sentimental emotions begin to well, I come to the end of this post. I enjoy the time I set aside to write, giving myself a few minutes to empty my mind, to breathe and recharge. My day calls to me but not to just be a task master or crazy urban farmer. It calls me forth to embrace the day with my children, to make the most of the moments I have with them. To teach, to share, to experience, to laugh, to love. They are little now but will not remain so. Love endures.
~Momma
Tuesday, July 12, 2011
Another Hot Tuesday in July
Tuesday arrives with rain, wet, heat, and possibly more later today with thunderstorms. Sound like I'm delivering the weather? Not sure that would be for me. I'd look out the window and that would be my forecast for the day. Today's forecast: cloudy with a chance of popcorn. Please be advised to stay indoors, fans/air conditioning running. Watch movies; tomorrow will be a better day. On to the task at hand.
After a weekend of family, baptism for my boys through the local Catholic church, a celebration afterwards; family, fun, laughter and love for a full day. Now its about putting my routine back into place to perform the duties of the domestic executive officer (DEO) or now, as I've found a new book, could also use the title Family Manager. "The Family Manager Takes Charge: Getting on the Fast Track to a Happy, Organized Home." Kathy Peel is the author. I took the boys to the local mall yesterday to get out of the heat. While we were there, I rented a two seater wagon for the boys to ride in, we had pretzel bites & lemonade @ the pretzel stand, my big guy got to ride the carousel & a train ride, and found my little man a silver plated piggy bank and toy cars from Sweden. It was a good time to spend not worrying about things getting done. Just me and my boys, enjoying each other's company, finding treasures and having fun. On the way out, is when I found the above titled book. Now, when I can find a $20 book and only pay $3 for it, as long as it has relevance to some part of my life, I will take it. Here's a piece to ponder.
Six Bad Excuses for Clutter (pg 59)
1. Everyone has one, so I must need one, too (It's so unique, I've got to have [keep] it).
2. It may come in handy someday.
3. I'll keep it until I find someone to give it to.
4. I don't have time to sort through my stuff (I fall in this category).
5. If I get rid of things, I'm throwing money away.
6. I don't know where to start (I hit this one, too).
It's like being in rehab and you have to stand up to introduce yourself. "Hi, my name is Gina*, and I'm a clutter bug. I just started the program, and I hope to find freedom from my things." I have a tab on the page listing "The Ten Clutter Commandments." I'm in this for the long haul.
Laundry is started, trying to find a slow cooker meal for tonight's dinner, and posting my thoughts so I can move forward into my day with my boys. We are going to watch a couple of movies, have snacks, and relax. What else do you do when the day is rainy, wet, hot, and sticky? The park and the lake are out of the question. This year, with all the rain, our mosquito population is in boom. Sadly, our bat populations have declined due to White-nose Syndrome. I'd do anything for a few bats to come and eat these pests. Tried to convince my mate to make a bat box to bring the critters in to work, but with the wide eyed look I got, I take that as a no.
So ladies, when the weather morphs into a strange creature, find the humor to keep from melting into your sofa. Afterall, if you live in New England, this won't last. ~Momma
After a weekend of family, baptism for my boys through the local Catholic church, a celebration afterwards; family, fun, laughter and love for a full day. Now its about putting my routine back into place to perform the duties of the domestic executive officer (DEO) or now, as I've found a new book, could also use the title Family Manager. "The Family Manager Takes Charge: Getting on the Fast Track to a Happy, Organized Home." Kathy Peel is the author. I took the boys to the local mall yesterday to get out of the heat. While we were there, I rented a two seater wagon for the boys to ride in, we had pretzel bites & lemonade @ the pretzel stand, my big guy got to ride the carousel & a train ride, and found my little man a silver plated piggy bank and toy cars from Sweden. It was a good time to spend not worrying about things getting done. Just me and my boys, enjoying each other's company, finding treasures and having fun. On the way out, is when I found the above titled book. Now, when I can find a $20 book and only pay $3 for it, as long as it has relevance to some part of my life, I will take it. Here's a piece to ponder.
Six Bad Excuses for Clutter (pg 59)
1. Everyone has one, so I must need one, too (It's so unique, I've got to have [keep] it).
2. It may come in handy someday.
3. I'll keep it until I find someone to give it to.
4. I don't have time to sort through my stuff (I fall in this category).
5. If I get rid of things, I'm throwing money away.
6. I don't know where to start (I hit this one, too).
It's like being in rehab and you have to stand up to introduce yourself. "Hi, my name is Gina*, and I'm a clutter bug. I just started the program, and I hope to find freedom from my things." I have a tab on the page listing "The Ten Clutter Commandments." I'm in this for the long haul.
Laundry is started, trying to find a slow cooker meal for tonight's dinner, and posting my thoughts so I can move forward into my day with my boys. We are going to watch a couple of movies, have snacks, and relax. What else do you do when the day is rainy, wet, hot, and sticky? The park and the lake are out of the question. This year, with all the rain, our mosquito population is in boom. Sadly, our bat populations have declined due to White-nose Syndrome. I'd do anything for a few bats to come and eat these pests. Tried to convince my mate to make a bat box to bring the critters in to work, but with the wide eyed look I got, I take that as a no.
So ladies, when the weather morphs into a strange creature, find the humor to keep from melting into your sofa. Afterall, if you live in New England, this won't last. ~Momma
Monday, July 11, 2011
Mucha Do About Nothing
Monday returns with vigor and hot weather. At 72 degrees around 7:30 this morning, it was not a pleasant discovery. The only thing that means to me is exactly what my sinus headache indicates upon awakening-gonna be a scorcher. Kids in the pool for the morning, lay low around the lunch hour, then maybe some time @ the park for the afternoon towards evening. We are keeping our Mondays for the summer months easy ones; with the weekends varying in degree as to what we do, it makes it easier to make Monday the comeback day. Come back into routine and learning. Therefore, my post is a short one today. I need to come back into routine today, too. So ladies, when Monday arrives, meet it with the stance you would take when having to confront something challenging: an open mind to discover its about working smarter, not harder. Let Monday be your comeback day.
~Momma
~Momma
Tuesday, July 5, 2011
Tuesday after the weekend holiday
Here we are, another Tuesday after a weekend holiday. That feeling of "What day is it?" lingers, and I have to double check my Color Notes on my Android to be certain its Task Master Tuesday. There is soooo much to do before Sunday, July 10, as we are having a celebration and family coming to join us. I have my rough sketched list of things that need to be completed before Saturday afternoon, and pushing for every moment of time spent purposely. Yes, every moment has purpose, including those moments of taking rest.
If you can believe this, I'm still gardening. The aspect of putting stuff into the garden spaces I have mapped out. Its July, folks. Most gardeners have all their stuff in, letting it grow and produce. Well, I'm there, too. Yet, also going by farm calendar and intuition. Intuitive gardening. Maybe I should teach a class on that. Today, my intentions are to try to plow-yeah, I said it-through however much ground I can cover and set what I can. I'm an optimistic gal.
I almost don't want to do it but I may have to give up on putting any level of organization to our garage. Seeing as my mate uses it as much as I do, there seems to be an ongoing pendulum swinging of boxes, carpentry equipment, etc...moving around each time either one of us goes out there. Yesterday, I went out to bring two terra cotta pots to the daylight so I could plant my patio tomato gardens. Because of the new building project my yang to my yin is undertaking, wood blocked my path. I moved one piece of plywood and almost bought it when a dominoes effect-like avalanche commenced in the shadows and sawdust. Good thing for cat-like reflexes. I came out unscathed, nothing was damaged or broken, and I got my flower pots. Yes, my tomato gardens are together and sitting on the front porch. Tomato plant in the center, surrounded by thyme or oregano, accompanied by pepper plants. So, how important is this garage organizing? Give me a day to ponder that one.
Some finishing touches on housekeeping, a little extra attention paid to the guest bedroom, and I'm done for the interior of the house. Good. Housekeeping is not a high priority for me. I'd rather spend time with my boys when they're awake and running as opposed to wiping down furniture or scrubbing the toilet. I can do those things later. My kids come first. When I do have those moments of cleaning, I juggle between the cleaning shackles and wanting to either work a few stitches on a new fiber project (in my case, ongoing ones that wait in a pile) or try to squeeze in a chapter on one of the many (and its always many) books I have on my ongoing reading list.
My secret desire before the weekend comes is the thought I have in mind to make myself a dress. Oh, I didn't tell you I suffer from Type A personality? Cat's out of the bag now. Yes, I want to make a dress that I wanted to make last year and couldn't find the time to do so, even after buying the pattern, fabric and waiting for the moment when both my boys would take a nap and I could get started. I'll have to see how this element pans out. Could be interesting.
As 8 AM looms in the foreground, my little one is preparing to turn 1 year old tomorrow, roughly around lunch time. To be exact, it would be 11:37 AM. He's taking steps these days, wanting to do everything he sees his big brother do. The baby I brought home is becoming a little boy. At the end of August, we will be celebrating another wonder in life. My big boy will turn 4, and his wonders and discoveries will become spotlight. I'm raising boys to be men.
~Momma
If you can believe this, I'm still gardening. The aspect of putting stuff into the garden spaces I have mapped out. Its July, folks. Most gardeners have all their stuff in, letting it grow and produce. Well, I'm there, too. Yet, also going by farm calendar and intuition. Intuitive gardening. Maybe I should teach a class on that. Today, my intentions are to try to plow-yeah, I said it-through however much ground I can cover and set what I can. I'm an optimistic gal.
I almost don't want to do it but I may have to give up on putting any level of organization to our garage. Seeing as my mate uses it as much as I do, there seems to be an ongoing pendulum swinging of boxes, carpentry equipment, etc...moving around each time either one of us goes out there. Yesterday, I went out to bring two terra cotta pots to the daylight so I could plant my patio tomato gardens. Because of the new building project my yang to my yin is undertaking, wood blocked my path. I moved one piece of plywood and almost bought it when a dominoes effect-like avalanche commenced in the shadows and sawdust. Good thing for cat-like reflexes. I came out unscathed, nothing was damaged or broken, and I got my flower pots. Yes, my tomato gardens are together and sitting on the front porch. Tomato plant in the center, surrounded by thyme or oregano, accompanied by pepper plants. So, how important is this garage organizing? Give me a day to ponder that one.
Some finishing touches on housekeeping, a little extra attention paid to the guest bedroom, and I'm done for the interior of the house. Good. Housekeeping is not a high priority for me. I'd rather spend time with my boys when they're awake and running as opposed to wiping down furniture or scrubbing the toilet. I can do those things later. My kids come first. When I do have those moments of cleaning, I juggle between the cleaning shackles and wanting to either work a few stitches on a new fiber project (in my case, ongoing ones that wait in a pile) or try to squeeze in a chapter on one of the many (and its always many) books I have on my ongoing reading list.
My secret desire before the weekend comes is the thought I have in mind to make myself a dress. Oh, I didn't tell you I suffer from Type A personality? Cat's out of the bag now. Yes, I want to make a dress that I wanted to make last year and couldn't find the time to do so, even after buying the pattern, fabric and waiting for the moment when both my boys would take a nap and I could get started. I'll have to see how this element pans out. Could be interesting.
As 8 AM looms in the foreground, my little one is preparing to turn 1 year old tomorrow, roughly around lunch time. To be exact, it would be 11:37 AM. He's taking steps these days, wanting to do everything he sees his big brother do. The baby I brought home is becoming a little boy. At the end of August, we will be celebrating another wonder in life. My big boy will turn 4, and his wonders and discoveries will become spotlight. I'm raising boys to be men.
~Momma
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