If you've never struggled with money, this is probably not the post for you.
For those of you who have, this is likely to resonate. I'm exhausted of living paycheck to paycheck, and it still not being enough. My partner has a great, government job. He makes excellent money, for just getting out of college and being in the position only three years. Yet, it never seems to help. We've cut back, cutting out cable, paying off our additional financing cards, and limiting what we purchase and how often we go out to eat. Actually, eliminating eating outside the house is probably our biggest hemmorhage. Sure, it may only be five or ten dollars here and there - but now that we have our daughter, it's a minimum of twenty dollars for all of us to eat. I refuse to give her fast food, in hopes to avoid a predisposition to that junk - and avoid childhood obesity as well as the plethora of disease accompanying it.
We're now at the point of trying to save money on groceries. Counting every single item, seeing if they have generic comparisons. Is it too much to want food that is healthy, not overly processed, without tons of different chemicals and preservatives? I simply want to look at the label, recognize what everything is, and feed that to my kid. I don't enforce vegan eating on her - that's simply the way she's always leaned towards. She throws meat off her plate in exchange for veggies, fruits, and grains. The awesome companies I am favorable of, rarely send out decent coupons. I'm talking about Ella's Kitchen, Annie's, any "crunchy", doesn't test on animals, non-gmo brand.
Not to mention the price of produce (which I mentioned in this post), fruits, vegetables, herbs are all ungodly expensive. I've traded in buying organic and local, just to get a wide variety at a decent price, that we can actually afford. This isn't the way that I want to live, I want to give our daughter the best that I can. As she gets older, she's going to eat more (naturally), and our grocery bill is going to skyrocket. I can't even imagine adding another child right now, as much as we'd love to. I refuse to accept food stamps or WIC (Women Infant Children), probably out of pride, but more so because I know the quality of food that the government is paying for.
What on earth are we going to do when it comes to sending her to school? I have my heart set, currently, on sending her to a Montessori school. Not because I think less of homeschooling or unschooling, I just don't feel equipped to provide her with the education she deserves. How on earth are we going to avoid that? Hell, I just watched, "Waiting for 'Superman'". The state of most public schools is deplorable (although to be fair, I went to an awesome public school, non-charter system, and was accepted to both Harvard and Yale). Private schools are expensive, regardless of where you live, if you even have access to them - which we don't currently.
I pinch pennies, live off coupons. We're working on cutting out all snacking in the house - which is frustrating, but also a learning experience. It's giving me the opportunity to make more of the food at home, from scratch (which is how I prefer to cook). I just don't know where else to give, there's no flex. We have mandatory bills, mortgage, car payment, insurance, groceries, utilties, student loans, and our cell phones. We're wittling down any credit cards we have, and won't use them in the future, but I still fee like we're drowning.
It puts an incredible strain on our marriage. I've brought up the idea of getting a job, on several occasions, because my doula and midwifery clients are inconsistent and not a guaranteed payment (since I work with so many low-income families, I often offer services for free or reduced fee). This prospect is unrealistic, as any job I would get would have to be part-time. Otherwise, we'd have to pay for someone to watch her - and I'm extremely untrusting of any people, outside of myself and her father, watching her. With the limited number of hours I would be able to take my entire paycheck would go solely to gas for the car as there aren't any job opportunities where we live.
Where do we go from here? If you live frugally, what have you cut out - or - what are you doing to live most minimally? We already use cloth diapers, we follow baby led eating so that there aren't additional products to buy on a regular basis, we buy our clothes (usually) at consignment and thrift stores, or I sew them. We'll be gardening this spring, summer, and fall - so that should cut back on the number of produce items we need to buy. Currently, our town ordinances prevent us from having chickens (for eggs and meat) or any other farm animals. I'm learning to can, already make my own applesauce (in large batches), cook 90% of our meals from basic/scratch ingredients. Where could I cut back? Food is a necessity, having shelter is as well.
I'd love to hear all of your suggestions! Link me to your blog, a website, mailing list, whatever it has tips and tricks on living frugally. Let's hope we make it out alive.
Sunday, April 22, 2012
Saturday, April 21, 2012
Applying
Two blog posts in one day? I'm fairly impressed with myself, haha.
I wanted to announce that I've decided to apply for the degree program at Union Institute & University. The focus is on maternal/child health - lactation consultation and education. What does this mean? That if I'm accepted, I'll be working towards a bachelors degree which will ultimately allow me to sit for the IBCLC (Internationally Board Certified Lactation Consultant) examination! Anyone who knows me, is fully aware that this is a big deal - I have an unwavering passion for breastfeeding and supporting breastfeeding Mamas. While I struggled with breastfeeding, I saw several IBCLCs, my experiences weren't positive - and completely disheartening. Not only am I determined to be at the top of my class (here comes miss narcissism) , but I'd like to pass the IBCLCE and focus in women with diagnosed cases of Insufficient Glandular Tissue.
What does this mean for my midwifery education? I've been doing a lot of thinking and self-reflection - and I don't think I'm being completely fulfilled by the CPM (certified professional midwife) route. I love so many aspects, but I'd like to have access to the more medical aspects. What's nice is that after I finish this degree program (again, if I'm accepted); I could apply to a school like Frontier and enter their bridge program. Which allows for people who haven't chosen the prerequisite nursing route - to catch up. I'm still struggling with this decision, which is why I'm taking a break from the mandatory midwifery education. Meaning, I'm still staying up to date with the research, new information, and keeping my nose in midwifery texts.
Where am I in the application process for Union? Well, my application is in as well as my incredibly personal entrance essay. They asked me to discuss my personal history and why I am interested in such a unique program. It's been years since I've had to write anything on a collegiate level, and let's just say that my grammar was a little out-of-practice. Now, I'm waiting for transcripts to be processed from my three previous schools, which should cut down on the number of general education credits I need to fulfill. It's ridiculous how long it takes. You would think a person could simply hop online and order copies of their transcripts - no muss, no fuss, no technological hiccups. Unfortunately, that's precisely what happened. OU doesn't have an online transcript system, Tufts network screwed the process up and logged me out, and then cancelled the order without approval - leaving me with a 3.00 charge for nothing (they're getting a very angry call for me on Monday). SMFA is the closest to working accurately, however, now I have to wait for an off-line/snail mail form to arrive at the National Student Clearinghouse, to make sure they have my "official" okay to submit the transcript.
Oy.
I'm going to be writing about school, if I get accepted. I'm actually beyond excited, and completely driven. Maybe it's because I've actually found something I'm passionate about - or because I have a daughter, and she pushes me to be the best person I can be every day of my life. I'm anticipating taking a full-time, overburdened load (essentially taking as many courses as they, and our finances will allow) per semester. I can't believe I'm re-entering college at 23 - although, I have to remind myself that it still means I'm EXTREMELY young, just very accomplished.
I wanted to announce that I've decided to apply for the degree program at Union Institute & University. The focus is on maternal/child health - lactation consultation and education. What does this mean? That if I'm accepted, I'll be working towards a bachelors degree which will ultimately allow me to sit for the IBCLC (Internationally Board Certified Lactation Consultant) examination! Anyone who knows me, is fully aware that this is a big deal - I have an unwavering passion for breastfeeding and supporting breastfeeding Mamas. While I struggled with breastfeeding, I saw several IBCLCs, my experiences weren't positive - and completely disheartening. Not only am I determined to be at the top of my class (here comes miss narcissism) , but I'd like to pass the IBCLCE and focus in women with diagnosed cases of Insufficient Glandular Tissue.
What does this mean for my midwifery education? I've been doing a lot of thinking and self-reflection - and I don't think I'm being completely fulfilled by the CPM (certified professional midwife) route. I love so many aspects, but I'd like to have access to the more medical aspects. What's nice is that after I finish this degree program (again, if I'm accepted); I could apply to a school like Frontier and enter their bridge program. Which allows for people who haven't chosen the prerequisite nursing route - to catch up. I'm still struggling with this decision, which is why I'm taking a break from the mandatory midwifery education. Meaning, I'm still staying up to date with the research, new information, and keeping my nose in midwifery texts.
Where am I in the application process for Union? Well, my application is in as well as my incredibly personal entrance essay. They asked me to discuss my personal history and why I am interested in such a unique program. It's been years since I've had to write anything on a collegiate level, and let's just say that my grammar was a little out-of-practice. Now, I'm waiting for transcripts to be processed from my three previous schools, which should cut down on the number of general education credits I need to fulfill. It's ridiculous how long it takes. You would think a person could simply hop online and order copies of their transcripts - no muss, no fuss, no technological hiccups. Unfortunately, that's precisely what happened. OU doesn't have an online transcript system, Tufts network screwed the process up and logged me out, and then cancelled the order without approval - leaving me with a 3.00 charge for nothing (they're getting a very angry call for me on Monday). SMFA is the closest to working accurately, however, now I have to wait for an off-line/snail mail form to arrive at the National Student Clearinghouse, to make sure they have my "official" okay to submit the transcript.
Oy.
I'm going to be writing about school, if I get accepted. I'm actually beyond excited, and completely driven. Maybe it's because I've actually found something I'm passionate about - or because I have a daughter, and she pushes me to be the best person I can be every day of my life. I'm anticipating taking a full-time, overburdened load (essentially taking as many courses as they, and our finances will allow) per semester. I can't believe I'm re-entering college at 23 - although, I have to remind myself that it still means I'm EXTREMELY young, just very accomplished.
Going Vegan
So, it's been a little while since I last blogged - but the important thing is that I'm back at it.
I've been spending a lot of time scrounging the Internet for vegetarian and vegan recipes, it certainly has come with it's ups and downs. Not to mention experimenting with vegan foods, and racing to my local libraries to pick up vegan living books. Unfortunately, I've discovered that, unless you live in an urban area with veg-friendly grocery stores and restaurants - many of the recipe books aren't designed for you.
For instance, I recently read, "The Kind Diet". Filled with awesome information about how you can save the planet, and supposedly eat great while doing it. I say supposedly, because most of the ingredients listed in this book aren't available at your local Wal-Mart or Target (which is essentially, all that's available to me). Especially the "exotic" ingredients, umeboshi plums and tamari - just to name a few. Not to mention Alicia's commentary on people who have gluten intolerances, she claims that a true intolerance (such as Celiacs) is extremely uncommon (which is why the majority of her recipes INCLUDE a gluten-based product). In reality, Celiacs is one of the most underdiagnosed conditions in this country - and if not Celiacs, a large portion of our population has a minor gluten or dairy intolerance (not that dairy is an issue if you're going vegan). The other aspect that bothers me is the guilt issue. Yes, I'm talking about the animals being taken to slaughter. While it is true that the top of the totem pole at the USDA and FDA could really give two hoots about the condition of the animals we eat, and are ultimately "in bed" with the major processors of animal meats in this country, the veganism movement needs to back off.
Essentially, it's like trying to convert someone to your religion, by pointing out all of the issues another has. Are there abuses that go on in slaughterhouses? Yes, unequivocably yes. Are the animals we eat often mutilated during processing? Yes. Are the conditions they live in - on factory farms - horrific? YES! However, what few of these authors seem willing to accept is that true organic, free range farms are respectful of the animals they produce for food. When butchering and processing those animals - they are ended in the most humane ways possible. Supporting those farmers, in many cases, can support your local economy - which is an AWESOME thing to do. However, standing on your soapbox, ultimately leads people to rebel, nevermind if what you're doing is for their benefit (in my case, especially, I went vegan for health).
Back to my discovery of vegan foods; the wondrous thing about the vegan lifestyle is that a grocery store can quickly become a risk-taking experience. Starting in produce. Have you ever wandered through the produce department and wondered how to prepare certain vegetables? That's the brilliance of veganism. It presents opportunities to try something new - for instance, I had never eaten bok choy before. Thankfully, do to the wonders of Twitter and Pinterest, I had boundless suggestions on how to cook it! Which, is delicious sauteed in a stir fry.
I found myself with a cart overflowing, a rainbow of fruits and vegetables. Unfortunately, having lived in California for a short while, I desired west coast vegetation. Especially horned kiwi melons, and lychee seeds - seriously, if you ever have the opportunity to eat them, do it. What disgusts me about grocery shopping now, outside of walking through the meat department (because my partner still eats animal proteins), is the cost. Why is it, in this country, that you can have a cart FULL of Hamburger Helper, Wonder bread, and fried, frozen foods for a minimal amount - but can't get out of the store under 100.00 when you're focusing on fruits and veggies?
Anyway, I'd like to talk to you about a few awesome vegan foods - that I found locally (in my case, meaning under an hour away from my home). Let's start with Earth Balance Buttery Spread - it's dairy free, vegan margarine-esque spread. And, AWESOME. I sometimes feel like the Paula Deen of vegans - I freakin' love butter. Not to mention, so many beautiful cooked foods often contain it. I'm very picky when it comes to substitutions, and I won't lie to you about them. If it makes me gag, or tastes like bad nuts, I'm going to say it. However, this buttery spread is phenomenal. Your tastebuds won't know the difference - I'm not joking.
Moving onto Follow Your Heart's "Veganaise", which smells identically to Hellman's original mayonaise. It's taste is much less potent than it's non-vegan counterpart - and is an excellent addition to potato salad, sandwiches, whatever. In fact, I have an awesome potato salad recipe that I plan on adding to a future blog post (with pictures!).
Daiya vegan cheeses have been recommended to me on different occasions, I have to say this - raw, out of the bag Daiya, tastes like tree nuts that have gone sour. That being said, cooked Daiya, whether on tacos, pasta, anything you would normally put shredded cheese in - is decent. It's not going to mirror the exact taste of cheddar (in my case), but for now, it's closest I'm getting to dairy cheese.
What about you? Do you have any awesome suggestions for vegan swaps? What about cookbooks, blogs, or websites? I'm open to trying new foods, my only restriction is that they have to be readily available at average grocery stores. No Asian sea vegetables, no exotic roots/herbs/plants. Don't get me wrong - I would love to try them, they simply aren't available.
I've been spending a lot of time scrounging the Internet for vegetarian and vegan recipes, it certainly has come with it's ups and downs. Not to mention experimenting with vegan foods, and racing to my local libraries to pick up vegan living books. Unfortunately, I've discovered that, unless you live in an urban area with veg-friendly grocery stores and restaurants - many of the recipe books aren't designed for you.
For instance, I recently read, "The Kind Diet". Filled with awesome information about how you can save the planet, and supposedly eat great while doing it. I say supposedly, because most of the ingredients listed in this book aren't available at your local Wal-Mart or Target (which is essentially, all that's available to me). Especially the "exotic" ingredients, umeboshi plums and tamari - just to name a few. Not to mention Alicia's commentary on people who have gluten intolerances, she claims that a true intolerance (such as Celiacs) is extremely uncommon (which is why the majority of her recipes INCLUDE a gluten-based product). In reality, Celiacs is one of the most underdiagnosed conditions in this country - and if not Celiacs, a large portion of our population has a minor gluten or dairy intolerance (not that dairy is an issue if you're going vegan). The other aspect that bothers me is the guilt issue. Yes, I'm talking about the animals being taken to slaughter. While it is true that the top of the totem pole at the USDA and FDA could really give two hoots about the condition of the animals we eat, and are ultimately "in bed" with the major processors of animal meats in this country, the veganism movement needs to back off.
Essentially, it's like trying to convert someone to your religion, by pointing out all of the issues another has. Are there abuses that go on in slaughterhouses? Yes, unequivocably yes. Are the animals we eat often mutilated during processing? Yes. Are the conditions they live in - on factory farms - horrific? YES! However, what few of these authors seem willing to accept is that true organic, free range farms are respectful of the animals they produce for food. When butchering and processing those animals - they are ended in the most humane ways possible. Supporting those farmers, in many cases, can support your local economy - which is an AWESOME thing to do. However, standing on your soapbox, ultimately leads people to rebel, nevermind if what you're doing is for their benefit (in my case, especially, I went vegan for health).
Back to my discovery of vegan foods; the wondrous thing about the vegan lifestyle is that a grocery store can quickly become a risk-taking experience. Starting in produce. Have you ever wandered through the produce department and wondered how to prepare certain vegetables? That's the brilliance of veganism. It presents opportunities to try something new - for instance, I had never eaten bok choy before. Thankfully, do to the wonders of Twitter and Pinterest, I had boundless suggestions on how to cook it! Which, is delicious sauteed in a stir fry.
I found myself with a cart overflowing, a rainbow of fruits and vegetables. Unfortunately, having lived in California for a short while, I desired west coast vegetation. Especially horned kiwi melons, and lychee seeds - seriously, if you ever have the opportunity to eat them, do it. What disgusts me about grocery shopping now, outside of walking through the meat department (because my partner still eats animal proteins), is the cost. Why is it, in this country, that you can have a cart FULL of Hamburger Helper, Wonder bread, and fried, frozen foods for a minimal amount - but can't get out of the store under 100.00 when you're focusing on fruits and veggies?
Anyway, I'd like to talk to you about a few awesome vegan foods - that I found locally (in my case, meaning under an hour away from my home). Let's start with Earth Balance Buttery Spread - it's dairy free, vegan margarine-esque spread. And, AWESOME. I sometimes feel like the Paula Deen of vegans - I freakin' love butter. Not to mention, so many beautiful cooked foods often contain it. I'm very picky when it comes to substitutions, and I won't lie to you about them. If it makes me gag, or tastes like bad nuts, I'm going to say it. However, this buttery spread is phenomenal. Your tastebuds won't know the difference - I'm not joking.
Moving onto Follow Your Heart's "Veganaise", which smells identically to Hellman's original mayonaise. It's taste is much less potent than it's non-vegan counterpart - and is an excellent addition to potato salad, sandwiches, whatever. In fact, I have an awesome potato salad recipe that I plan on adding to a future blog post (with pictures!).
Daiya vegan cheeses have been recommended to me on different occasions, I have to say this - raw, out of the bag Daiya, tastes like tree nuts that have gone sour. That being said, cooked Daiya, whether on tacos, pasta, anything you would normally put shredded cheese in - is decent. It's not going to mirror the exact taste of cheddar (in my case), but for now, it's closest I'm getting to dairy cheese.
What about you? Do you have any awesome suggestions for vegan swaps? What about cookbooks, blogs, or websites? I'm open to trying new foods, my only restriction is that they have to be readily available at average grocery stores. No Asian sea vegetables, no exotic roots/herbs/plants. Don't get me wrong - I would love to try them, they simply aren't available.
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