So many new things...so little time

I feel that lately I want to do EVERYTHING. But then I start researching all the new activities/things I want to try and get overwhelmed. Here are some examples:

Gardening-I would love to have produce in our backyard. Tomatoes, strawberries, squash, zucchini, peas, basil, parsley, etc. But I start researching it and realize that the soil in Colorado is horrible for this and we would need to build planters with all new soil. I also originally thought we would build these in the dog runs that the previous owners built because they would be closed off from the dogs, hannah and wildlife. Then I realized that part of the yard gets zero sun-zero, zip, zilch, nada! So, Jesse and I realize we need to get working on building this "new soil, fully enclosed, in-the-sun" garden but our next 4 weekends are already really busy with my work or other plans. So, the garden is on hold for now.

Cloth diapers-after my previous post  Reduce, Reuse, Recycle I started talking to a friend who had read my blog and she got me really intrigued. I've since been doing a lot of research and talking to several friends who do CD'ing. So, I had decided I really wanted to do this. But, my usual downfall, the more I read the more overwhelmed I get. There are so many options, so many different ways to launder, so many questions, and upfront, so much money (though in the long run apparently its way cheaper). Just google "cloth diapers" and you'll see how much info there is-too much!

Sewing-I've wanted to learn to sew for awhile. I want new curtains for Hannah's room. A friend had to make me a baby sling because I didn't know how. I'd love to be able to hem my own uniforms. When I see little projects that others make as baby gifts or homemade gifts, I get jealous. I looked into classes at our local rec center and they are affordable but you have to bring your own sewing machine. I don't want to purchase a machine till I know what functions and different options I would want on a machine and till I know if I'm any good and will stick with it. I looked into JoAnns fabric and hobby lobby and they too want you to bring your machine. I'm looking for a BEGINNER class-as in, never done it before and don't own a machine.

There are some new things I have done lately though: we started Hannah's swim classes. They are going great though I don't know that she is learning anything. We sing and practice jumping into the water and kicking her legs and "scooping" the water with her hands. But these are all things that she did any time she was in the water. But she loves the class! Though she is freezing the whole time. Poor girl-her lip quivers the entire 25 minute class! I think the best part is when we get up and she gets all bundled up in a towel and finally warms up again. I will try to take some pics and get them on here. So, this is one item on my "To Do" list that I can cross off!

Also, all last semester I wanted to join a "Moms of Young Children" bible study at my church and this year I got our routine and act together enough to do it. It started Jan 11th and I haven't missed a class yet! That, in and of itself, is quite an accomplishment. Plus we have 5 days a week of homework that I am staying mostly caught up on. I have really enjoyed this time to connect with other moms in the same stage as I am. So, CHECK, another item off the list!

Finally, in January, a friend asked me to watch her daughter 3 days a week while she and her husband worked. At first, getting out of the house was a production. Getting both girls fed, played with, napped and maintaining a calm household was almost impossible. But now, 2 months later, I feel like I really have the hang of it. Though this leads to another item on the "To Do" List. Find a gently used double stroller thats affordable so this spring/summer we can go to the park and zoo and take walks. I am borrowing one tomorrow to see if I like it and taking the girls to the zoo on Friday with some of the moms from my bible study. It'll be our first big outing-me and two little girls!

When I asked Jesse for help with this blog and asked "what are things I have accomplished?" He quickly replied "Raising a daughter." Oh yeah! Thats the biggest, most important item on my "To Do" list. The only one God has specifically assigned to me to do. So, if I never learn to sew, garden or use cloth diapers, I will continue to raise Hannah the best I can!

Also, I wouldn't want to leave out that my role as wife and supporter to my husband is just as important as my role as mom. So many hats we women wear! Phew! But I love my life!