Spring Break

So this week was Spring Break at the University of Oklahoma. It was a beautiful week to have off too! I stayed mostly busy catching up on backlogged homework and creative projects, but I did find some time to plan for my future. Money has been tight at my household, I was laid off from a high paying job in December, and my fiance has had his hours cut at his job. To keep up with bills we have had to make some significant changes in our lives, which were at first frightening, but in the end are starting to look like they are for the best.

1. I have stopped buying books. This was one of my major expenditures. Especially cook books. I went to the library this week and checked out a book I wanted to read and learned another neat trick of consumerism, without the bookstores pushing me to buy the bestsellers, I learned that my favorite author has published a new book recently, so I checked it out too!

2. Planted a Patio Garden. I bought seven packets of organic heirloom tomato seeds and three red chile pepper plants and planted them in pots on my patio. This will reduce my food costs, allow me to trade with other people growing produce this year, and looks nice on my porch.

3. Spent some time in the sunshine. Since both my fiance and I are only working 32 hours a week now, we have plenty of time to be outside, which has noticeably improved both of our moods. We go on long walks or head out to my parents land to help build their house. It's nice.

I've also got some changes planned for the future:

1. Start attending the Farmers Market every week beginning in April. This is a good source of low-cost fresh produce.

2. Cook at home more. I really don't have a choice here, since I can't afford to eat out much anymore. Also it is healthier, and I can stop letting so much produce go bad.

3. Spend more time outside reading. Sunshine and reading are the best ways to get my brain travelling down the path of innovation and creativity. So why not do them both together? I always enjoy sitting by the lake or in a park and reading a good book.

4. Start jogging with friends. I am pretty inconsistent with my work-out routine lately, so I plan to involve some friends and go for regular jogs.