I haven't been much in the mood for writing these days. I can't narrow it down other than I've been feeling a little 'funky' these days - lots of stuff on my mind!
Since January, I have been volunteering in Noah's class 3 days a week (sometimes up to 4 or 5 times). It has been wonderful to be around children, gaining some 'hands on/resume worthy' experience with children and especially a thrill to have the opportunity to spend the time with Noah in a class room setting witnessing young minds being formed! Last week, Noah's teacher only needed me on Friday. During the week, I had lots of time to clean, think, cook, clean, think, clean, think, cook....etc. (I think you get my point) It also made me think that possibly I was beginning to go a little stir crazy. I think I am in need of something, possibly the spring, sun or something more?
As well - just as one of my friends (Christa) wrote on her blog here "The Simple Life" about their family directly affected by the recession - SO HAS OURS. Since February, Jacques company has cut all employees hours in an effort to be responsible and as a proactive measure during these unstable economic times. Though Jacques still works pretty much the same hours (with the occasional Friday afternoon off - which IS very nice) his pay has still dropped. I haven't shared this because it did not really have an impact on us, considering it was only supposed to last for 2 months. Just last week we found out that these changes will remain until further notice (they will be reviewed month by month). Considering Jacques' income is our ONLY income, these changes (in time) will begin to affect our budgeting efforts and has made us begin thinking much more closely about how & where we spend our money. We have realized that due to these changes, our reaction must be one of 2 things; either we cut out some of our extras from our budget or I begin to work a little compensate where Jacques pay has dropped.
Though this is really not that big of deal - it is still a change (and has been weighing on my mind) and if you know me, my biggest fear is the unknown. These times are definitely the unknown!
All in all, I truly believe these changes are a really great thing, bearing in mind how 'stir crazy' I've been feeling lately and I KNOW it is a blessing in disguise. We have been VERY blessed with a comfortable life and with lots of extras. It won't hurt cutting some of these extras out, that's for sure! It will however be a great lesson of living a more simple life and I am SO okay with that!!!
In the coming weeks, I will begin thinking about ways I can make a little bit of money from home or look for a part time job that will give me around 10 'flexible' hours per week so that I can work within school hours. Our main objective is that Noah will NOT have to attend day care. If this will have to happen, then we will gladly cut our budget.
Until then, I will continue thinking creatively and if you have any ideas, please feel free to share!
2 comments:
I'm so glad you posted because you've been on my mind. I'm having the same thoughts here! My biggest panic right now is getting Project Santa done without affecting my family's finances too drastically! So I'm looking for ways to earn some cash as well. With two girls and very little family here working right now outside of the house is not an option. So I've been making hairbows but only two have sold so far, but I'm still thinking of things!! You'll have to call and chat sometime!
I think you should totally try to snag a few weddings this summer. Your photography skills are awesome. Not to mention some maternity shoots, newborns....put the word out...you never know what might happen :)
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