Navigating through molasses

Do you ever feel like you are trudging up hill - through a river of molasses - in February? Then you can relate to my current state of mind!!!  I could continue with many cliches about how I am feeling, but I think that pretty much sums it up! Let me tell you where I am at....

I started out the year with a clear vision in my head of how I wanted the year to go (organized, prepared, focused, etc.).  It has not gone so well!!  My house is a disaster - I still have my Christmas bottles on my mantle - they should have been painted for February about 2 weeks ago.  I'm supposed to have my laundry room and my office done and organized - not even started!  I'm supposed to have a routine and a schedule and a family organization center - um..... nope!! There's more.....

On the other hand, I have started exercising every day, whether its yoga, strength training, walking the dogs, its something every day.  I've been drinking the amount of water that I am supposed to be drinking.  I've started teaching art in two more classrooms and am interviewing for a paid art position next week. I threw Jaidyn a really, really cool birthday party.  I worked 17 days in a row to help cover a situation at work.

After reviewing the month of January, looking at my goals and my vision, reflecting of progress made or not, and looking ahead at where I need to be, I have come to the conclusion that my life plan needs to be way more flexible that it is currently!  So, my 12 week plan has become more of an as I get it done plan.  I don't feel the need to beat myself up for not sticking to a set timeline.  Life happens daily and sometimes I am motivated to get things done and sometimes I'm not.  Yes, my life is chaotic; yes, it stresses me out; yes, changes need to be made.  But, no more timelines.

I have a renewed commitment to my goals. I can do this; I just have to navigate through the molasses.

12 Weeks till Spring ....

I mean, 12 weeks until spring break is over.  At which time my house will be deep-cleaned and organized.  Let me share my plan:

Week One:

The bedroom should be an area of sanctuary in the home.  It should be the one place that everything is at peace and the rest of the world can be shut out.  Those reasons are why I chose to focus on my bedroom first.

Week Two:

My biggest challenge, hands down, is keeping up with the laundry.  I have tried the load-a-day system, the all-in-one-day system, the each person does their own system - fails, every single one!  I HATE laundry, so the thought of doing it every day is awful (I really tried to think of a more colorful way to say that but it just flippin' sucks!).  Doing 10 loads in a day inevitably leads to a load left in the washer, a load left in the dryer, a couple unfolded loads on the cedar chest (where I put them after I moved them from the bed so I could go to bed....), a tub of unmatched socks, stack of clothes that haven't yet been put away and maybe five loads completely put away.  I don't even want to tell you how the 'everyone do your own' thing didn't work out - suffice to say it was an epic fail.  So, in addition to deep cleaning and reorganizing my laundry room, I will also come up with some kind of laundry system.

Weeks Three and Four:

My second biggest challenge is keeping up with the paperwork.  My 'office' consists of stacks of papers, randomly placed craft drawers, bins of magazines, etc.  I cannot see my desk top and haven't been able to for a couple of months now.  I gave myself two weeks for this project because it is going to require purging and filing and sorting and.....

Week Five:

My bathroom

Week Six:

The Living Room

Week Seven:

The Dining Room

Week Eight:

The Upstairs Bathroom

Week Nine:

The Kitchen - I'll have to kick Darin out or do it while he is at work since I will be invading his territory!!

Week Ten:

The Shed - It's a small shed, meant to hold gardening supplies and yard equipment.  Unfortunately it leaks - something we didn't know until we had stored cardboard boxes in there.

Weeks Eleven and Twelve:

By far, the largest project is The Music Room.  It is a 10 X 14 metal shed that has become a storage place for whatever we couldn't find a place for in the house, including everything that came from my classroom - I accumulated a lot in 2 years!  Unfortunately, while storing things, order was not the first thing on my mind.  It is chaos - there isn't even a path from one door to the other - it's horrible!  The two weeks that I have slated for that project are the two weeks of spring break.  Darin is taking one of those weeks off; I think we can get it accomplished.

Each week I will post pictures of the before and after of each room and describe how I did what I did.  Please comment and make suggestions, I can use all the help I can get!!

Planning, Preparing, and Producing

I have been looking for the perfect planner to help me get and remain organized.  I do believe that I have found it!!  I have been able to adapt it to fit my lifestyle and needs.  The problem with a planner is that it doesn't maintain itself, therefore, it will required discipline and dedication.  The question is, how badly do I want the goal of being organized and prepared and ahead of the game rather than always chasing after.


The planner that I am using is called "The Passion Planner".  It is amazing!!  A few things that I love about this planner:

1.

It starts out with a 'Passion Plan'.  It is basically a 5 minute brainstorm that they then give steps to break down into smaller goals and these in turn translate into weekly and daily focuses.  Goal planning at its best!

 2.

It has the general monthly page but it adds places for goal planning, due dates, priorities and has small reminders to step back and make sure you are on track.  I don't have it all completed yet, I've only had it a couple of days!

 3.

It has a two page layout of the week with the times small enough to accommodate for what I need - like working the graveyard shift! - plus it ties into the goal setting and breaking down the focus into small, daily tasks.  It has separate to do lists for personal and work.  It has a blank space for jotting notes or doodling or whatever AND, one of the coolest things, it has a spot to list the good things that happen that week - I love the focus on the positive!

4.

At the end of each month, it has a built in journal reflection - how amazing is that!?!  It fits so perfectly with my need to see where I've been, where I am, and where I am going.  It serves as a way to get back on track if I have wandered a bit, which I will!

This planner has a lot more features that I am excited to explore and adapt. to my needs.  If you are looking for a way to help get yourself organized, check it out!

Check back on Saturday for my new series - Spring Cleaning in 12 Weeks!

Say 'Hello' to a brand new day!

One of the things that I love about January 1st, is that it seems to be a chance to start fresh.  To say, "OK, this is where I was, this is where I'm at, this is where I want to be."


So, while perusing Pinterest, I came across this really cool template that I thought I would share.  It took longer than I had anticipated and was not nearly as easy as I had expected!  These aren't in any particular order, just what happened to cross my mind.

10 Highlights:

1. Mom - It may seem odd that Mom's passing would be on the highlight list; one of the last conversations that we had, she talked about how she felt trapped and helpless.  Now she isn't.  I like to imagine her soul at peace and if there is a heaven she is riding her horse around the streets of gold.
2. Student Success - While I can't share details, I had 2 students that were extraordinarily successful last school year.
3. Xmas Party - The first adult party that I have hosted, it was a pretty good success.  A good time was had by all, I think.
4. Charlie's Graduation - I am combining his graduation with his 18th birthday.  It is almost an indescribable feeling of pride, love, hope, and so many more emotions, while at the same time surreal.  It doesn't seem like it's been 18 years.
5. Married - Viva Las Vegas, Baby!! What a fantastic week it was!  On April 1st, I did what I had sworn never to do again and I'm loving every minute of it!
6. 42nd b-day - Those who have read The Hitchhikers Guide To the Galaxy will understand the significance of the number.  For those who don't, in that book, 42 is the answer to everything.  So for this year only, I have been the answer, whenever the kids don't know, they just say, "Mom is the answer!" While that has been fun, I put my b-day as a highlight because my party was small and fun and planned for me! Then, the night ended with my honey and I in the hot tub under a softly falling snow - big flakes, REALLY big flakes. It was perfect.
7. Teaching Art - This fall I have been volunteering in Jaidyn's classroom as an Art Heritage Instructor.  It is great to have interaction with the students and be teaching again.
8. Award Winning Tori - Tori is involved in many activities in which she is outstanding and contributed to the group in so many ways.  However, one area that spotlights her is her pianist ability.  When she competes, she wins.  She is amazing.
9. Xmas Presents - I handmade the majority of Christmas presents that were given this year.  On top of that, they were individualized.  I gave with love.
10. Acceptance - There were many self realizations this year, but the most significant was realizing that my dream/vision of teaching was not reality and that reality sucked!  It takes a special person to be a teacher - connecting with students and inspiring them to be their greatest in a world that constantly drags them down. That I can do; I can build a relationship with a student, inspire them, build them up, teach them to be and do and think.  Unfortunately, that is only 15% of the job.  The rest of 'teaching' is paperwork, parents, administration, cohorts, meetings, agendas, duties, lesson planning, and, so much more.  I have never been organized.  I have never been a planner. My favorite excuse is that I work best under pressure.  These qualities don't fit the requirements needed for 'teaching'.  When I was able to accept that my vision and the reality would never coexist, I was able to let go of that ideal and with that, I was able to let go of the disappointment, anger, and guilt of which I had been holding. It was an amazing release.

10 5 Disappointments:   (I thought for many hours but my year really didn't have that many downs.)

1. We were not able to attend the State Marching Band tournament.
2. We were not able to attend the All-State Choir Concert.
3. I didn't get my paperwork turned in in time to renew my CO license.  To be honest, I didn't know if I even wanted to renew it when it came time.
4. My teaching contract was not renewed at the end of the school year.
5. Even though I am making attempts, I can't seem to find a routine that keeps our family organized, our chores done, and chaos out of our sanctuary.

3 Game Changers:

1. Losing my contract and not securing another teaching position 
2. Loss of Income but with the same output
3. Adjusting our schedules to fit with the night audit position

3 Things I focused On:

1. Stepping back into the role of Mom - By that I mean reading with the kids every night, making super cool treats to take to classroom parties, helping more one on one with homework, playing more games, and spending quality time together. It's a work in progress.
2. Being a better employee - my last position suffered because of my lack of organization, I am trying to be better organized at work with the steps I take to complete my work
3. Organization - This is a work in progress and I didn't make nearly as much progress as I had hoped!

3 Things I forgot:  I'm sure that by this the template meant tasks or projects; I took it a different way.

1. To be a wife - The last half of the year has been overly stressful because of the circumstances we are facing.  Our focus has been on survival - day by day survival. At times it has felt like I am living with my best friend instead of my husband.  We have kind of lost touch a bit in the romance department. It's ok, though; I have a plan!
2. To have fun - When we first met, our family spent a lot of time playing music together, hanging out with friends, being outside our home and socializing with other people.  Recently, we have become hermit-like in our struggle to survive.
3. To step outside my bubble - I have been so focused on trying to fix what's going on in my home and in my bubble, that I have failed in checking in with those in my outer bubble.  I have said, "Yes, lets get together!" and then never made a date.  I've said, "I'll call you later!" - 3 months ago. I realize that true friends are able to pick up the phone and pick up where they left off and we do, but in the meantime there is much that is left unshared. 

Reflection and plans for next year:

Over the past year, the obstacles and challenges have been few, but they have been momentous and daunting.  I am stronger for having been challenged by them.  I would like to say that I have overcome them all, however, that would be a big, fat lie.  I am working toward it.  I don't put much faith in resolutions, but I think having a vision of where you want your life to go during the year requires planning.

Check back soon to see my plan for the year 2015 - it is going to be an amazing journey!

Progress is made through persistance

It's been a bit since I have posted anything regarding progress on the things on my 'to do' list. I have been busy, though it has come in spurts rather than a steady flow.  Regardless, here's where I'm at:

First, Smith has been incredibly busy doing fun and naughty things while at the same time trying to teach a lesson.

Day 6 - Messy Smith

"He just wanted to make elf angels, Mom!!!"

Day 7 Homesick Smith  I'm pretty sure that he flunked out of igloo making class because he had to use a bowl to help....

On the evening of day 7, the small children decided that it would be fun to break many of Mom's rules.  Unfortunately, even though Mom was 'sleeping', Smith was watching.  In his introduction letter, he told them that he could only have fun if they stayed on the nice list.  Because of their choices, he didn't get to have any fun!  

Day 8 - Sad Smith

Day 9 Naughty Smith
The kids argued over whether his name should be  Naughty Smith or Gross Smith!!

Day 10 Hostage Smith

The troopers obviously didn't like that he was in the marshmallow tub with all the chicks!!

Along with all the elvish chaos going on, I have been completely focused on Christmas and searching for handmade gifts that are meaningful and individual.  I have everyone planned, I have all of the supplies bought, I just have to put it all together. I have a calendar made up that will help me stay on schedule with each project, I would share but.....  after Christmas I will post a copy!  I have gotten a tree and we will decorate as a family this afternoon.  I have most of my decorations up and will be posting those in my next post.

Most of my other projects have been put on hold for the Christmas season.  I have started, however, a list that I will post at the beginning of the year.  It is a list of all the projects and goals that I plan to accomplish in 2015.  I am going to use this blog as a journal to document my progress in all areas of my life.  I am looking forward to the challenge I have set!  That is in the new year, though.  For now, I have enough projects on my plate to keep me busy for the next three weeks!!!

Also, I am planning an adult party for the first time, ever!!  I'm totally excited!  My theme is a pretty obvious Christmas theme of 'The Ugly Sweater Party'.  I'm scouring pinterest for ideas and am excited to share them as things come together!

Happy Holiday Season, Everyone!  Let's spread some cheer to those around us as well as the feels that keep the Grinch away!

The Feeling of Accomplishment

So, I'm a week into this personal challenge to overcome my procrastination habit.  I have to say, I am pretty proud of myself.  I feel like I have accomplished more in the last week than I have in the last month.  Some of the tasks are even ones that I have been putting off for a couple of months!!

If you haven't checked out my project list, yet, I'll fill you in on what I've gotten accomplished.

1. My family pics are done, thanks to my sister, Sheila, photographer extraordinaire!  Thanks, Sis!  They turned out amazing and I can't wait to post them on my page of pictures.  Look for them soon!
2. My Thanksgiving dinner is planned and my turkey is thawing, invites have been extended, and the decorating is underway.  Speaking of decorating....



Before:  This is taken from a different angle, on a different day.

3. I now have a 'fake mantel'!  This was HUGE, to me.  I have been trying to figure out how to get it done in the quickest, easiest, and, let's face it, cheapest way possible!  In the end, the total project cost me $10.82 - this is how:

Before:  I would like to note that I was too lazy to clean it for the before picture because I knew I would be tearing it to shambles.

Halfway done: I arranged the couch and put the bookcases on the tables. Charlie thought it was a great spot for Buddha!

After:  I bought 2 cans of spray paint in a dark brown ($3), used a spare shelf from another bookshelf for the top, used a spare piece of wood from the shed for the base, extra garden fence for the grate (I have decided that I need to paint it as well), and a plant to fill out the inside.

The lights were from Halloween, they flicker to simulate firelight.

The bottles were left from our wedding reception.

The vases and frames came from the dollar store. $5
The 'Give thanks' print came from here
My apologies because I can't find the site that had the other print.

My honey got this for me.

The Thanksgiving print came from here

The Thanksgiving print came from  here

The finished project

Creating Accountability and First Steps of Progress

Since I started this quest to overcome my procrastination, I have been racking my brain trying to figure out how I was going to prove that I am actually doing the things I say I am.  Here is what I came up with:

1. I have created a page that has my never-ending list of projects and tasks that need to be completed.
2. As I complete them, I will post pictures if possible and then cross them off my list. If I can't post pictures (financials, privacy issues, etc.) I will do my best to provide whatever results I can.

I have been pretty productive the last couple days, though I can't share very much in the way of pictures. 

First and foremost, I have gotten together all of the information for the doctor's office and will drop it off in the morning after I drop J at school.

Second, I planned an art lesson and taught it and it went really well.  We studied Henri Matisse today.  The students loved that I was able to find a video of him putting a piece together (see it here).  Then they had a blast creating their own impression of Matisse and his "Painting with Scissors".

And, I figured out how to make our 'Elf on the Shelf' work with our schedule.  Being a parent in a blended family is a challenge at times.  Between the three exes and the five children, it somehow worked out that there will be no children at our house from the 22nd to the 27th and then all the children will be there the next week!  So, I emailed Santa and asked if it would be possible for him to deliver Christmas early, like on the 21st....he said yes and that he will send his elf down early, the day after Thanksgiving, so that he can still get the full report on the behavior of the children!  I thought it was a rather ingenious plan.  I want to do the bigger things on days that more kids will be here and little things on the days when it will just be J.  So far, this is my plan; it is subject to change depending upon circumstances - I have many backup ideas!

1. Elf arrives with a bouquet of candy canes and a welcome letter explaining his purpose.
2. Message out of cereal on the dining room table - 'I'm watching you' while he is hanging from the chandelier
3. Elf is found building an Xmas tree out of Lego's
4. Powdered sugar angels on the stove
5. Mustache and antlers drawn onto the bathroom mirror
6. In the blender with cookies
7. Hiding in a marshmallow igloo
8. Elf is found soaking in the sink full of marshmallows - with a Barbie! Naughtiness has ensued!
9. Writing his name in powdered sugar - in a very naughty way!!
10. Tapes streamers over their doors so they can't leave their bedrooms.
11. Elf yoga with stuffed animals
12. Hiding in a toilet paper tower
13. Pooping chocolate kisses
14. Candy cane zip line
15. Wrapped up back packs
16. Held hostage by Lego mini figs and army men
17. Hangs underwear on the tree
18. Stuck in the vacuum
19. Elf selfies
20. Used the kids' potty
21. Planting Lolli's
22. Hanging out with the bloomed lollipops
23. Drummer Elf
24. Stacked cups to keep kids upstairs

I'll be posting pics of our crazy elf and his or her antics as well as the kids' reactions!!

I am planning on doing my version of the Polar Express via jeep.  Last year, the kids told me it was their favorite thing.  I hid tickets to the 'Minivan Express' in the tree and when they got their pj's on they found notes saying to gather a pillow and a blanket and find their golden ticket and go to the 'magical minivan'.  When they presented their tickets, they were given a mug of hot chocolate and a popcorn box of caramel corn mixed with other candies.  Then, we drove around for about 2 hours listening to Christmas music and looking at lights.  To be honest, it was my favorite thing about last year as well!  This year I think I will have them open a chosen present on Xmas Eve that contains a new pair of PJ's, a light blanket, candy canes, hot chocolate mix, and a ticket to the 'Jeep Express'.  I'm still planning it out.

Each journey begins with a single step....

They say that the first step to fixing a problem is admitting that you have one.  So, I have a problem.  I am the queen of procrastination!  If it can be put off until tomorrow, I will put it off until the day after tomorrow.  This habit has cost me many things in my lifetime, including opportunities for advancement, employment, screwy finances, etc.  In short, it has effected every area of my life. I recognize that I have a problem.  So far, however, I haven't found a procrastinators anonymous; of course I haven't looked - I'll do that later. ;)  Just kidding, when I didn't know what to write next I went and checked to see - low and behold, there is a procrastinators anonymous.  There are no meetings in my area.

So, how do I conquer this habit?  The answer sounds so simple - just do stuff.  However, that is easier said than done.  I have done some research and have found that there are many emotional causes of procrastination - fear is the most prevalent.  I can understand this, one of the tasks that has been on my to do list for the past two weeks is to fill out financial information for my doctor.  I am scared of what he is going to tell me and I don't want to hear that I have to change my whole lifestyle, so by not filling out the papers I am putting off hearing the news that I am scared to hear. Even in my own mind, I think that's a big crock!  The truth is that I have gotten caught up in the latest book that I'm reading, the latest TV shows that I'm watching, and the latest decorating idea that I can find on pinterest!

I think that my, lets call a spade a spade, laziness is due to a lack of accountability.  As a result, I am starting this blog.  My intent is to write on Saturday, Monday, and Wednesday.  Each post will highlight things that I have crossed off of my to-do list.  Even if no one is reading my blog, I am posting this in a public place that people can see, therefore I am hoping to gather a following that will help keep me motivated and on-track.  Maybe if I can overcome my procrastination, others will find the hope and encouragement that they need to take the first step in what I'm sure is going to be a challenging but highly rewarding journey.