This weeks topic is Media and homemaking. Courtney really does this one well so I won't spend a lot of time talking about what our grandmothers used to do - you can read that HERE. I can't say that I ever heard about either of my grandma's killing a chicken but I know that they gardened, cleaned and didn't have running water for a long time! Things have changed, that is for sure. I'm thankful for our local grocery store even when I get frustrated that the selection isn't great compared to other areas. Sure, I'd love a great bread store to get fancy bread and bagels but, that's ok too!
There are certain things about homemaking I have already enjoyed and some things I haven't. Growing up, I always said I wanted a chef and a butler . . .well, that didn't happen HA! Now, I don't mind cooking so much and enjoy making and trying new things. I have conquered some homemade things like Pizza, Cakes, Cookies, and various fantastic dinners. I'm on the search for the perfect homemade taco seasoning, cheesecake, and . .well, I'm sure there are more! Now, cleaning is not my forte. For years we talked about getting someone to clean the house but now that I stay home, that is not a top priority. So, I'm learning how to clean in a way that I "enjoy" it. I'm thankful that I don't have to run clothes through a ringer or sweep a dirt floor!! I do wish sometimes that I could empty my entire house on the front lawn, clean the entire inside from top to bottom, and than only put a few things back . .. just like they did when they didn't own anything HA! I digress though . . .
How does media impact my Homemaking? I think there are pros and cons.
1) Cooking - I love finding recipes on-line to try - it is great to be able to read others ideas and recommendations. Another thing I love is finding videos of how to do something.
2) Cleaning - It is so great to look up ideas of how to fix, clean, and do things better. So often I can search "how to . . " and find the answer
I'm sure there are more pros :-) But how does it impact me in the other direction?
1) I'm guilty of not taking time out to discipline my kids as needed (they are perfect of course!) because I want to finish something online - whether it be an e-mail or reading a blog post.
2) I'm guilty of forgetting about laundry in the washer/dryer because I'm too busy looking up recipes or cleaning ideas.
3) I'm guilty of not getting outside with my kids because I feel the pull of needing to get something done.
Yes, media is a time wasting without a doubt. As I've done this challenge the last few weeks I have really worked to limit my media time during the day and have noticed a change in all of us. Yes, there are things I have to get done, but I am trying to do those things early in the morning before the kids or up or in the evening after everyone else is in bed.
