Posted in Coffee, Goals, Planning, Reflection, self-care

Mastering the Art of Weekend Planning: Productivity with a Dash of Style

Picture this: it’s a lazy Sunday morning, the aroma of freshly brewed coffee fills the air, and you’re armed with a planner, a pen, and a dash of imagination. As you take that first sip of your favorite java, you’re not just sipping coffee; you’re sipping on inspiration, ambition, and the promise of a productive week ahead. Welcome to the world where the weekend transforms into a canvas for creative planning, all while infusing your unique style into every detail.

Just like how your morning coffee carries the power to awaken your senses, your weekend holds the potential to awaken your goals and aspirations. In the hustle and bustle of life, we often overlook the art of harnessing our weekends for intentional planning. But fear not, because we’re about to dive into a journey where the blending of caffeine and creativity takes center stage.

Think of your weekend as that captivating blend of beans you carefully choose for your cup of joe. It’s not just any two days; it’s an opportunity to blend your personal style with strategic planning, resulting in a concoction that fuels both your passion and your productivity. Just as you savor the layers of flavor in your coffee, you’re about to explore the layers of planning, goal-setting, and self-care that can brew a week full of accomplishments.

So, grab your planner and your favorite mug, because we’re about to embark on a journey where the weekend becomes your palette, coffee becomes your companion, and planning becomes your masterpiece. Whether you’re a morning planner, a midnight scribbler, or someone who fancies a midday planning rendezvous, get ready to infuse your weekend with the kind of energy that can only come from a well-brewed blend of planning and personal style.

Get ready to sip, sketch, and set your intentions. It’s time to turn your weekend into a canvas of possibilities, painted with the hues of your personal flair. Welcome to the art of productive planning with a side of coffee-fueled creativity. Let’s dive in and brew up a weekend that sets the tone for a week that’s as bold and flavorful as your favorite cup of joe.

Absolutely, let’s delve deeper into the importance of planning your week, including the upcoming weekend, and provide tips for setting clear goals:

The Art of Weekend Planning: Setting the Stage for Success

In the whirlwind of modern life, the concept of the weekend often brings a sense of relief and relaxation. However, beneath the surface lies a treasure trove of opportunity waiting to be harnessed. By incorporating the weekend into your weekly planning, you’re not just enjoying a break; you’re crafting a strategic foundation for the days ahead.

Embrace the Power of Comprehensive Planning

Weekend planning isn’t just about the days off; it’s about weaving those precious moments seamlessly into your overall week. A well-structured plan doesn’t view the weekend in isolation; instead, it envisions it as an integral part of the canvas upon which your week’s masterpiece is painted. Why? Because when you allocate time for relaxation, leisure, self-care, and even a touch of productivity, you’re setting yourself up for success on multiple fronts.

Tips for Setting Clear Goals: From Work to Well-Being

  1. Begin with the End in Mind: As you set your goals for the weekend, envision what you want to accomplish by the time Sunday evening rolls around. This mental snapshot will serve as your North Star as you navigate the weekend.
  2. Balance Across Domains: Your goals should encompass various facets of your life—work, personal growth, relaxation, and social connections. Balancing these domains ensures you’re not just productive, but also nurturing a holistic sense of well-being.
  3. Prioritize Tasks: Break down your larger goals into manageable tasks. Prioritize them based on urgency, importance, and alignment with your long-term objectives. This way, you’re channeling your energy into tasks that truly matter.
  4. Be Realistic and Specific: Set achievable goals that are specific and measurable. Instead of vague goals like “work on a project,” aim for “complete research phase of Project X” or “write draft of report.”
  5. Delegate and Collaborate: Don’t hesitate to delegate tasks that others can handle or collaborate with colleagues on projects. This not only lightens your load but also fosters teamwork.
  6. Include Self-Care: Prioritize self-care as a goal. Schedule time for activities that recharge you—whether it’s reading, yoga, a leisurely walk, or quality time with loved ones.
  7. Visualize Success: As you set your goals, visualize yourself achieving them. This mental exercise can motivate and energize you, making your goals more attainable.
  8. Celebrate Milestones: Acknowledge and celebrate your achievements, even the small ones. Positive reinforcement boosts motivation and reinforces your commitment to your goals.

By weaving weekend planning into your overall routine and setting clear, well-defined goals, you’re maximizing the potential of your free days. From work-related milestones to nurturing self-care moments, you’re setting the stage for a weekend that’s both rejuvenating and productive. Remember, each goal achieved during the weekend is a step closer to your larger aspirations—a testament to the power of strategic planning and the magic of well-spent weekends.

Absolutely, let’s dive into your favorite planning tools and how they add a touch of style to your weekend organization:

Stylish Tools for a Weekend Full of Flair

When it comes to weaving a tapestry of productivity and style into your weekends, the tools you choose play a pivotal role. These tools aren’t just practical aids; they’re an extension of your personality, helping you curate a weekend that’s both functional and fabulously stylish.

Chic Planners that Speak Your Language

Enter the world of planners that are more than just pages; they’re canvases waiting for your dreams and ambitions to take shape. Tula Xii and Go Getter Girl Co. planners aren’t merely tools; they’re companions on your journey towards goal-crushing and memory-making. Their sleek designs and thoughtful layouts blend seamlessly with anyone’s, (definitely mine to be honest) personal style, ensuring that every page you turn reflects your unique essence.

Pens with Personality

Grab your favorite pens! My favorite go-tos: the Papermate Flairs and Pen Gems, are more than writing instruments; they’re the wands that bring my thoughts to life on paper. As we glide them across our planner’s pages, our words take on a vibrancy that mirrors our zest for life. The choice of pens isn’t just about functionality; it’s about finding tools that resonate with your creative spirit. Do you have favorites? I’d love to hear in the comments which ones you use. I’m always looking for new pens and markers to add to my vast collection.

Highlighting Your Brilliance

Who says highlighting is just about marking text? With my must-have Mildliners or your favorite brand, you’re not just accentuating words; you’re adding strokes of color that evoke your passion and enthusiasm. These aren’t just highlighters; they’re brushstrokes on the canvas of your plans, guiding your eyes and thoughts towards what truly matters. I love using them for color-coding too. Helps me see if I’m balancing different areas of my life and work well. If I see a lack of certain colors it helps draw my attention to it so that I can perhaps consider reprioritizing and rescheduling to make room for important areas like self-care and family time.

Sticky Notes and Stickers: Small Accents, Big Impact

Sticky notes and stickers aren’t just adornments; they’re the brushstrokes that turn your plans into a work of art. From small sticker shops to Tula Xii, each sticky note and sticker is like a tiny gem adorning your planning canvas. They’re reminders of the little joys that punctuate your journey, and they infuse your weekends with a dash of whimsy.

Brewing Creativity with Your Cup of Choice

And then there’s your trusty coffee mug—the vessel that holds more than just coffee. It holds your ideas, your intentions, and your dreams. As you take each sip, you’re sipping on inspiration, fortifying yourself for the planning ahead. I have seasonal mugs that add whimsy to my planning and I have the very important Kansas City Chiefs mugs that are must haves on game days throughout the football season. I mean, for me, this tradition has been linked to the win and loss record of the team so I guess you would say I’m superstitious. I’d like to think of it more like a ritual. Do you have coffee mugs that are sentimental or linked to certain days of the week or year? I’d love to hear the story in the comments.

Who says flavor is just for coffee? I used flavored coffee and Skinny Syrups to infuse more than just taste into my weekends; they infuse personality and delight. Each drop is a reminder that even the smallest details deserve attention and care. Do you like flavored coffee? Are you a Pumpkin Spice Latte fan? I’m more into caramel and cinnamon and vanilla for my coffees although I do have PS syrup on my coffee bar for guests and my occasional desire to join the PSL fandom.

Java Adventures

And let’s not forget the coffee itself. My favorite coffee from Java Momma isn’t just a beverage; it’s the elixir of motivation that fuels my planning endeavors. It’s the companion that keeps my senses awake and my ambitions alive.

So, as I open my stylish planner, grab my favorite pens, and adorn my pages with sticky notes and stickers, I remember that these tools are more than accessories. They’re my creative arsenal, my companions on the journey towards a weekend that’s both meticulously planned and fabulously fashionable. With each stroke of the pen and each sip of coffee, I’m not just organizing my time; I’m crafting a week and weekend that are a masterpiece of style and substance.

Weekend Symphony: Striking the Perfect Chord Between Hustle and Chill

Ah, the weekend—a melody that harmonizes relaxation with productivity, turning two days into a symphony of accomplishment and enjoyment. As someone who embraces the art of planning, sips coffee like it’s liquid ambition, and thrives on the vibrant rhythm of life, I’m about to uncover the strategies that create a weekend score worthy of applause. Let me how these strategies resonate with you. What works and what doesn’t. I love learning from my readers.

Strategy 1: The Productive Prelude

Kickstart your weekend with a “Productive Prelude.” Harness the early hours when your energy is high and your focus is laser-sharp. Tackle those tasks that need your full attention, whether it’s a work project, an organizing frenzy, or a burst of creative brainstorming. Think of it as your opening act—a crescendo of accomplishment before the leisurely interlude.

Strategy 2: The Coffee & Conquer Technique

Leverage your coffee ritual for maximum efficiency with the “Coffee & Conquer Technique.” Sip your favorite brew as you tackle tasks that require less mental strain. Respond to emails, check off smaller to-dos, and tidy up your workspace. Your coffee-induced clarity adds a touch of humor as you conquer tasks with a caffeine-fueled grin.

Photo by DDarama on Pexels.com

Strategy 3: The Self-Care Serenade

Enter the “Self-Care Serenade,” where relaxation takes center stage. Whether it’s a spa-worthy skincare routine, a book that whisks you away, or simply basking in the embrace of your favorite cozy corner, this strategy strikes a chord with your passion for self-care. Remember, a well-rested you is a force to be reckoned with.

Strategy 4: The Whimsical Work-Break Waltz

Infuse a bit of whimsy with the “Whimsical Work-Break Waltz.” Alternate bursts of focused work with delightful breaks. Set a timer for 25 minutes (a.k.a. the Pomodoro Technique), and when the timer rings, indulge in a mini-dance break or a quick doodle session. Who said work and play can’t waltz together?

Strategy 5: The Laughter & Learn Rhapsody

Merge humor with learning through the “Laughter & Learn Rhapsody.” Dedicate a part of your weekend to enhancing your skills or diving into a topic you’re curious about. Listen to an engaging podcast, watch an insightful documentary, or read a book that both educates and entertains. Your quest for knowledge becomes a joyful journey of growth.

Strategy 6: The ‘Let’s Tackle It Together’ Sonata

Invite a friend or family member to join you in the “Let’s Tackle It Together Sonata.” Collaborate on a task, whether it’s a DIY project, a cooking experiment, or a decluttering mission. As you navigate the challenges together, your shared laughter and camaraderie create a duet of accomplishment and joy.

Strategy 7: The Blissful Balance Coda

End your weekend with the “Blissful Balance Coda.” Reflect on your achievements and the moments that brought you joy. Raise a cup of coffee to toast the balance you’ve achieved—equal parts productivity and relaxation. The beauty lies not just in the notes you’ve played, but in the rhythm you’ve orchestrated.

With these strategies, you’re not just enjoying a weekend; you’re creating a symphony of accomplishment and enjoyment that resonates with your unique brand persona. From coffee-fueled bursts of productivity to whimsical work-break waltzes, your weekends become a masterpiece composed of laughter, relaxation, and triumph. So go forth, orchestrate your weekend with finesse, and let the music of balance guide you through every note of the melody.

Make Time for Self-Care each Weekend

Look at your weekend calendar and try adding at least one, if not three of the following into your plans. Making time for your self-care ensures you are refueled and refreshed when it comes to tackling all of those goals you’ve set for yourself along with mastering your mindset for the juggle of demands you are planning to meet.

  1. Spa Morning Ritual: Kickstart your Saturday with a spa-inspired morning ritual. Begin with a soothing skincare routine, complete with your favorite cleanser, exfoliator, and luxurious moisturizer. As you massage in each product, visualize the stress melting away, leaving behind a radiant you.
  2. Coffee Meditation: Turn your coffee routine into a mindful meditation. Brew your favorite blend and find a cozy spot by the window. As you savor each sip, focus on the aroma, the warmth, and the moment of tranquility it offers. Let the coffee awaken not just your senses, but your appreciation for the present.
  3. Book Nook Escape: Designate a corner of your space as a “Book Nook Escape.” Surround yourself with plush pillows, a cozy blanket, and a stack of books you’ve been longing to read. Lose yourself in the pages, journeying to far-off lands or exploring new ideas.
  4. Journaling Journey: Set aside time on Sunday morning for a journaling journey. Reflect on the past week’s successes and challenges. Write down your aspirations for the week ahead. This self-reflection becomes a map guiding you towards personal growth.
  5. Creative Art Session: Unleash your inner artist in a creative art session. Whether it’s painting, sketching, or crafting, let your hands dance on the canvas. The act of creation is not just therapeutic; it’s an expression of your unique essence.
  6. Nature Connection: Venture outdoors for a nature walk. Feel the sun on your skin, listen to the rustling leaves, and let the fresh air invigorate your senses. Nature’s embrace provides a reset button for your soul.
  7. Mindful Movement: Dedicate time to mindful movement, whether it’s yoga, a dance workout, or a gentle stretch routine. Let the movement be a celebration of your body’s strength and resilience.
  8. Cooking Creativity: Experiment with cooking a new recipe, infusing creativity into your culinary journey. As you chop, sauté, and season, you’re not just nourishing your body, but your spirit too.
  9. Virtual Coffee Date: Connect with a friend or family member virtually for a “Virtual Coffee Date.” Share stories, laughter, and a cup of coffee as you bridge the distance with love and connection.
  10. Digital Detox: Designate a few hours on Sunday as a “Digital Detox” period. Put away screens and engage in offline activities that bring you joy, whether it’s gardening, playing an instrument, or practicing a hobby.
  11. Pampering Bath: Create a spa-like experience with a pampering bath. Use your favorite bath bombs, essential oils, and soft music to set the ambiance. Sink into the warm water and let the worries of the week dissolve.
  12. Outdoor Exploration: Plan a mini adventure, like a hike, a visit to a local park, or a picnic in your backyard. The change of scenery can refresh your mind and soul.

Remember, weaving self-care into your weekend isn’t just a luxury; it’s a necessity. By prioritizing these moments, you’re nurturing your well-being and setting the stage for a week that’s not just productive, but also filled with the richness of self-love and joy.

Reflect and Refresh
Embrace the “Reset and Refresh” mindset as the weekend fades, where you revisit your accomplishments, set intentions, and infuse your week with purpose. Reflect on your weekend wins while savoring your favorite coffee, celebrating each achievement as milestones of progress. Look ahead with hope and set intentions for the week—whether work-related goals or self-care moments—visualizing them as part of a fulfilling journey. Let your planner be a tapestry of purpose, where intentions weave into a beautiful story of your aspirations. Dedicate time for self-care rituals that rejuvenate body and soul, incorporating activities like skincare routines and peaceful walks. Celebrate the week’s progress and embrace the cycle, infusing weekends and weekdays with intention and empowerment. Through this approach, each day is a canvas for purposeful planning, and self-care becomes your guiding compass, leading you toward a week that’s both accomplished and rejuvenated.

The Art of Curated Weekends
As the curtains draw on your weekend, it’s time to relish the delightful masterpiece you’ve painted—accomplishments, self-care, and purposeful planning all swirled together in a canvas that’s unmistakably you. Think of it as your personal blend, just like that perfect cup of coffee that brings joy and a jolt of energy.

Crafting a Weekend: Your Personal Artistry

Crafting weekends isn’t just about to-do lists; it’s about channeling your inner artist. Picasso had his brush strokes; you have your planner, your favorite coffee mug, and a dash of humor that makes even mundane tasks seem like a punchline waiting to be delivered. Remember, life isn’t just lived; it’s curated, and you’re the curator-in-chief.

Harmony of Hustle and Humor

The beauty lies in the harmonious symphony of hustle and humor. Picture this: you, in your pajamas, tackling tasks like a boss while humming your favorite tune. You’re not just checking off boxes; you’re dancing through your to-dos, letting humor be the rhythm that keeps you going.

Masterpiece: Yours to Paint

Each weekend is your blank canvas, ready for the swirls and strokes of your intentions. It’s like Picasso said, “Art washes away from the soul the dust of everyday life.” Your art is in planning that energizes, self-care that revitalizes, and humor that sprinkles a little sparkle.

Blend of Bliss

The blend you create is a cocktail of accomplishments and a dash of delightful relaxation. It’s like crafting a perfect cup of coffee—strong, sweet, and just the way you like it. In each sip, you’re savoring not just the taste, but the journey itself.

Sip, Savor, and Plan the Beauty Ahead

And as you sip your coffee, you’re not just nourishing your senses; you’re nurturing your aspirations. With your planner in hand, you’re not just planning; you’re sketching the vibrant beats of a life filled with beauty, purpose, and a sprinkle of humor. So, here’s to weekends that are as splendid as your favorite cup of joe, and to planning a life that’s as enchanting as it is accomplished. Sip, savor, and let’s plan our beauty-filled journey ahead, together.

Cheers to a life that’s beautifully brewed and wonderfully lived! 🌟🍃☕

She didn’t have all the answers either. And she still doesn’t. She justst said, I’m doing it ANYWAY.

Rachel Marie, CEO, Go Getter Girl Co.
Posted in Planning

Managing Mondays – Holiday Style

I am not sipping coffee in my normal spot today and it is not really Monday. Here is my morning quiet place.

What nonsense is This? It is called vacation. I am taking the week off from my weekly spread. (And work.) What? I know. Call me crazy. No planner in sight! I left it at home. Instead of planning the week I left it blank. When I get home I plan to make those pages memories instead. I bet you are wondering how I will survive a week with no planner or no plan, even. Ha! I am not that nuts.

I am in Charleston, South Carolina for the week. We got here yesterday which is why my Monday post is a day late. And while sipping coffee this morning, I have my notebook, pens, stickers, highlighters, and my one pager.

See! I have a loose plan. I left behind the hustle and the structure because I want to relax. So, I have goals. And whatever shape each day takes is what it is. I plan to take lots of photos, videos, and note down in my journal what I saw, felt, and thought about my experiences.

Did I mention my daughter is with me? Oh, yes, she is!

I have my journal page ready and we are heading out to explore in a bit.

I am excited to make lists about today. If you haven’t started following me on Instagram or Twitter find me. I would love to have you along on our adventures.

Posted in Planning

Managing Mondays…and A week of one event after another

Sipping coffee this morning I thought about how busy this week was really going to be and I spent the quiet time focused on meditating instead of making lists. Afterall, I deserve to gift myself a bit. Tuesday is my birthday!

Weeks ago I told my offspring that the only gifts I wanted were ones that included their time working on projects around the house…indoor and outdoor beautification and organization. I am happy to see a little improvement each day as these small to big projects and various phases getting completed. So far so good. The goals are aggressive so the timeline was extended to the first week of June.

I love birthdays.

This week is also the last week of school for my youngest. So early release days and finals make the week hectic. As a working mom I am negotiating pick ups for the early release days. I truly am very blessed to be surrounded by a village of family and friends who help out on crazy weeks like this one.

I have work partners who are in town this week so I have a dinner out with them while they visit. I made sure I batch cooked a few meals yesterday to be easily warmed up for lunch or dinner. Good thing too since I got the invite to dinner on Wednesday very last minute.

Thursday includes an all day meeting and an appointment for my daughter. That day could be ripe with conflicts since it also the last day of school with an early noon release. Did I mention how blessed I am to have a village of support? I just need to note who is who and when so I don’t get confused or set false expectations with anyone. I cannot imagine life without my planner on weeks like this one. How would I ever keep it straight otherwise? And then there is the all day meeting…so of course there will be a lit of notes and action items. Insert a half page for a list and notes.

This coming weekend is Phoenix Comic Fest and as much as we want to attend all four days, we are only attending on Saturday.

Insert Checklist! This is a work in progress. Planning Cosplay and a survival kit for a day long convention requires planning and preparation.

But that’s not all…next week is Vacation so….I need to start making the packing list.

I want to keep it simple so that throughout the week I can add to my list and pack whenever I have a window of time. I know most will be last minute. That’s the beauty of the lists. I have a place to note down whatever I think of whenever it comes to mind. I can worry less and enjoy the busy birthday week.

So, let the list making and note-taking begin. I think I am ready for the week. Just keeping my coffee fresh and my planning time quiet and productive.

Have a great week!

Posted in Planning

Managing Mondays-Busy Days with Lofty Goals Await

This week is full of fun and I have a lot to do around all of it.

  • Live Music
  • Movie
  • Mother’s Day
  • Work
  • Appointments
  • Writing
  • Home Organization and Cleaning

Will I get it all done? I have a plan. And I decided to color code my days with Work in pink and Home in Green.

This is a new idea. With so much going on I thought the segregation would help my mind focus and fight the clutter. Let’s see how it works.

If nothing else I love the symmetry it lends to the design. This layout is using 100% Happy Planner brand products. Well, and a pen.

I love busy weeks yet when I start laying out the week I get a bit anxious. The events are non-negotiable. Time with friends at movies or live music shows are Aces to me. I live for moments that make memories. And I am well rested and camera ready. By the time Sunday comes around I will definitely love the fact that Mother’s Day means I get to take the day off. No chores from this Mom! And my son gave me a ticket to the live show on Sunday which will make the day the best ever. Ending a week eating at my favorite restaurant, enjoying live music that I love all on Mother’s Day means my blessings are truly overflowing.

With a week ending in so much joy I already feel motivated to rock this week at home and at work. I know I can get it all done and more.

Back to sipping my coffee before I tackle it all!

Posted in Family, Goals, lists, Planning

Managing Mondays-Plan with Flexibility and Lists

Oh how I love my coffee and my morning time! I haven’t yet cracked open the work laptop even though I probably should. It is going to be a big week full of planning meetings, important dates and appointments.

I thought I would share my weekly spread and some of the other lists I have at the or have plans to make.

I love my spread this week. I picked this sticker set because my best friend is celebrating her birthday and she loves teal colors. Even my Erin Condren pen is primarily teal for the week. Most of the stickers are from one of my favorite Etsy vendors, Joyful Planner. She designs beautiful weekly and monthly sets. It is always a treat for me to visit her shop and splurge a bit.

I really expect today as well as most of the week to feel a bit crazy so I am inserting few extras to help me keep my sanity and make lists as I go along. I am going to try a weekly master as a half page and use the daily as originally intended. I am interested to see how much I can actually get done in a day with the sometimes ridiculous conference call schedule.

As you can see, I haven’t put much pen on yet. I need flexibility in my functional plans because I feel the winds may change a bit as early as today so I focused on only writing the non negotiable events and my goals. I gotta trust my gut today and let my plans and lists take shape in the moment.

I hope you all have a great week and that you are managing just fine this Monday. I am going to keep on sipping coffee, making lists and planning the week day by day.

Share below how you plan. What kind of lists do you make? Do you track your hourly appountments?

Posted in Family, Goals, lists, Planning, Planning, self-care, Vision, Writing

Managing Monday-Let’s Talk About Lists, Baby!

As I near the end of March, I start thinking about April. Planning does that to me. I see the next month coming as the pages turn. Ugh! My mind goes into overdrive. To control the chaos, I start thinking about monthly goals, important events and I make lists. Lists help me focus and allow me to be distracted by things in the process. My kids send me texts or come to the door of my room and interrupt. My dogs don’t care that I am in planning mode. If they want affection they get right in my face or sit on my foot. Whatever it takes. So lists are helpful because if I have written it down I won’t forget it. Well, that and it eases my mind.

What on earth do I need lists for? And why do I obsess over them? How many times have you gone to the store and forgotten something? Me? More than I care to admit. And hey, the lists on the phone work for some people but I love what I call a hybrid version of this.

Shopping lists

I have Google Home and I have my household conditioned to tell Google to add items to the shopping list. Best. Thing. Ever. Except for the fact that they cannot see the list so I end up with some items repeated three or four times. That annoys me when shopping from it. Since I meal plan before shopping, I tend to start that list on paper because that is my meal planning method. Pulling up the Home app and looking at the list created through the week to add the needed items is all part of the procesd. Honestly do I need four bottles of ranch dressing? My kids might think so but my budget would argue differently if it could speak. I consolidate to my paper list and chuckle every time I look at that Google list. My kids have jokes. They come up with crazy items. This last time the mystery item was “a stick.” My daughter confessed to this little gem. I mean go in the yard for that one. Obvious right?

Fun Wish lists

All through my planner, you will see wish lists and this is one of my favorites. Concerts and Festivals. Last night after dinner I was enjoying a glass of wine with the family (the legal age drinkers had wine too) and we were all playing music from our Spotify lists and talking about shows. I grabbed my handy wish list and asked which, if any, they would be interested in. What a great time we had looking at other events and finding common artists we all knew and liked.

Why do these go on a wishlist and not right to my calendar? Well, I have to admit that I am budget conscious and won’t put it on the calendar until I bought the tickets. I just don’t like disappointing myself in the reality on that monthly spread by marking something out. I like wishlists better. How about you?

Cleaning Lists

This is a re-try at an old method. My family is ignoring the list posted on the fridge. I suspect that is partly due to everyone’s crazy schedule. When I would like to see things get done seems more like a wishlist of disappointment. The dishes get done and the trash and recycle are taken out but everything else just gets ignored until I make a fuss. So, I am putting this back in my planner and not on the fridge. And when people are home, I will ask nicely and then track who complied. Then i will settle on doing it myself if it is really bugging me. Yesterday was a day where everyone asked what I would like done. So I guess the flow is changing and I will ride the ride.

I picked this format from my stash. I got it from Natalie Rebecca Design several months ago. I think I bought this from her Amazon Store. I am excited to switch it up and see how we get along with it.

Spring Cleaning

I love fellow bloggers who share great tips and tools on cleaning. In preparing for April, I decided this would be a great checklist as I plan my spring clean. De-Clutter Challenge. I actually started some of this last weekend on my own and was frustrated because I was in perfectionist mindset and spent far too long on each task. I went in search of a new method and ran across this saved in my favorites.

Master To Do List

I use a running to do list that follows me from day to day and sometimes week to week. It isn’t always the same format or paper style. This list sits in the middle of my weekly spread where I can note items while I am on conference calls, in meetings, and in those moments of meditation when there is a lot on my mind. The only way to give my mind rest at times is simply to stop and write it down.

Reading…I make lists for this too

I love this planner that Brenda Novak sent in her January Reader’s Box. My reading Vision in 2018 has been to read more. And I set a realistic goal of 2 books per month. Now, what has actually happened is that I have gotten to about 2 per week. Rediscovering this joy makes my heart sing. If you looked all over my house, there are books and my Kindle has a vast virtual library. So I don’t have to go far to make a pile like this.

Every month I have managed to build a pile of self-directed learning and pure enjoyable fiction. Did you notice Erma Bombeck in the pile? My mother always picked up those books. They were her version of the Reader’s Digest for the bathroom quiet time. Sometimes as a mother that is the only room where you tend to spend any amount of time with no interruptions. Well…let me have this moment of fantasy. I have been thinking about these books so I picked a couple up to revisit her wit and wisdom. She was always inspirational.

Oh and plots. Those Works in Progress are eating at me. I have an itch to write chapters after chapters. I am a seat of my pants writer and know I need to find a balance with some structure so this April, I am going to study on story plotting.

Managing Mondays and every day is built on the foundation of lists. What kind of lists do you make? Daily? Weekly? Wishes? Share in the comments. I would love to see pictures and read what you put on your lists.

Have a great week!

Posted in Family, Goals, lists, Planning, Vision, Writing

Unboxing – Erin Condren Haul

Every once in awhile I come home to a box waiting for me. It feels like Christmas.

So, here is the latest box from Erin Condren! Isn’t that a pretty box? The word “enjoy!” and the pretty design lend a subtle clue that EC has blessed my step. I kinda dig when the box does not blatantly display a company name.

And when I saw this pastel beauty next to my front door I was a giddy girl. Ready to see what is inside? Me too!

Let’s open it!

The enjoy! theme is mirrored inside. I just adore when I order items and they come packaged like a gift. Personal touches is a trend that big box retailers miss.

When I was browsing the site I wanted a new notebook (Her planning system is not what I use these days) and was hoping I could find something with my words for 2018. This little gem ties nicely to Strength. So I jumped on in and customized to colors that made me happy. That is the fun of Erin Condren. You can personalize with your name and change the colors within her palatte range. And the paper quality is amazing! Let’s tour this notebook.

The cover is laminated so the inside can be used over and over again with the wet erase markers.

Instead of the standard lined notebook, I opted for the productivity notebook with a list margin. We all know i love making lists! I haven’t decided what I will do yet with this notebook. I know it is going to be for writing projects. And as a lover of lists I thought I could brainstorm in bullets or list what I might need to research.

The notebooks are filled with quotes and reminders of positivity which make me smile when I use them. I need more positivity. How about you?

Did I mention I love the paper? Made in the U.S.A. and a nice thick paper that won’t tear easily. I am in love and can’t wait until I have a block of time to play.

What else is in the box?

These gift tags were a freebie. I realized I shop regularly with EC and prefer online versus going to Staples for their limited inventory. And I never signed up for the EC Insider program. I finally took the plunge for the perks. And as a thank you they sent me these! What fun! Watch for a post in the not so distant future when I embellish with them.

Markers! I have to hide these from my teenager. I really do. Not only because she would likely borrow them with no plan to return but because I have been organizing in my office in my spare time and my marker/pen/highlighter collection is already put of hand. These are my first ever from EC. They were 15% off and the Wet Erase are needed for some other items in the box. And those are…

These laminated beauties were also on sale. I wanted to see how they work with any and all spiral notebooks. And I wanted to explore laminated or permanent reusable inserts for planners would work for me. Now you know why I needed the wet erase markers. I just love these colors! Watch for some future blogs where I plan with them. I am so excited.

Oh…that isn’t all!

I love pen holders that can be stuck in journals, notebooks, and planners. And these were on sale making them under $2 each. I have never tried EC holders. I have several from Happy Planner and Michael’s but they are not plain and simple. I am into the thought of the pen holder blending in and the pen of choice standing out.

And the Coil Clip Connectors allow you to put anything inside the spiralbound notebook, journal, or planner. A custom-made dashboard or checklist might be good to pop into one…and I have always wondered what to use. So I grabbed a couple to play around with and maybe share with my readers.

Last…but certainly not least. I love these daily dots sets.

And I have been meaning to play around with this on one of my planners. I cannot wait to show you how. I will also compare these to other daily dots that I have found via other retailers.

All in all I am happy with my new unboxing. The notebook feels so personal and was definitely a treat for me. I did pay full price for it. It is okay to splurge every once in a while. All of the accessories were on sale so I went a little crazy while still staying under my budget for my splurge. Don’t you love when that happens?

Watch for some projects coming up in the next couple of months as I put these to good use and compare EC products to other brands.

Have you ever purchased Erin Condren products? The company has quite a selection and not just paper and planners. The colors and desings change regularly throughout the year. I tend to place an order every quarter if one of the new designs catches my eye.

What do you think of Erin Condren products?

Posted in Family, food, lists, travel, vacation

New Orleans…Day Two…Eating on the Bayou

The French Quarter is a world in itself. It is colorful and musical and wonderfully unlike anything in my desert oasis home of Phoenix. Waking up in the Big Easy in The Prince Conti Hotel, mere steps from Bourbon Street was surprisingly relaxing. I could have stayed at a newer hotel but I wanted a place that had history and was locally owned. This hotel, although older, has a charm that appeals to my writing soul. If I didn’t have a day of adventure planned, I could easily relax here and let words flow. If you are going to visit this wonderful city, stay in a place like Prince Conti and feel part of the history. This was my second time in this city and my second time at this hotel. The decor always takes my mind to corsets, ball gowns, pegnoirs, and beignets. The stuff in all the historical romances I have loved to read for decades. The staff is friendly, thoughtful and helpful with directions and suggestions on what to do.

My bestie and I enjoyed the late morning and early afternoon. We wandered Bourbon Street stopping in to listen to live music here and there taking advantage of great bar service along the way.

I loved every minute she and I spent. I had a thing about this place because of the fire and water fountain. I had to take a picture.

I had to eat too. And finding gluten free in the French Quarter is not so easy.

My true mission the second day in the city was finding my way to The French Market. And by late afternoon I was hungry. When I asked the best walking path to the market, Prince Conti staff were quick to point me in the right direction and suggested I try crab cakes at Meals From The Heart. Little did they know. I already had that place on my list from my research. I was also in search of The Crepe Cart . I dragged a couple of friends with me.

What a treat! My friends and I walked just over a mile toward the river past Jackson Square.

Until we found the place for crepes.

The folks at the cart matched the personality of the deliciousness they crafted. I couldn’t decide between savory or sweet so I asked for a suggestion and I went with it: Goat Cheese, Nutella, Bacon, and Ref Pepper Flakes on a gluten free crepe….amazing combination of flavors. This was totally off menu. You don’t have to be as daring as me. But you really should visit the market for this great stop.

And crab cakes? I did save room for one.

Melt in your mouth moist and perfectly flaky crab cakes. This is literally the best crab cake I have ever had. Their secret to gluten free is no secret. They simply do not put in bread crumbs as a filler. Pure crab and spices. And gluten free. The owner was friendly. He shared stories of how his mother as the master chef makes it her mission to devise vegan and gluten free foods with authentic Creole and Cajun recipes. I didn’t have enough tummy space but I really wanted to try their gumbo too. There was nothing fancy about eating at these places but they were definitely hidden gems in the French Market. I know that each and every opportunity I get to return to New Orleans a day of tummy pleasing grazing will be planned in the heart of The French Market.

And I will wash it down with a nice cup of New Orleans Coffee at Cafe du Monde nearby.

If only someone somewhere in The Big Easy would master a gluten free beignet! My foodie heart would be complete.

Now that I am home all I can think about is beignets and I keep looking at internet recipes and thinking about making them at home. If I do, I am inviting all my friends over to help me eat them and tell me how close they might be to the real thing. What if I mastered them, moved to New Orleans, and opened The Beignet Basket in The French Market myself?

Posted in lists, packing, Planning, travel, vacation

Seriously…What to pack?

Saturday and Sunday I started packing, I organized myself and got down to brass tacks. I am sipping coffee and reviewing my lists. Because, well, do any of you live in New Orleans? Southern Florida, Cozumel?

I think I may need to adjust my plan. I see lots of rain and plain old chilliness on some days in the next two weeks.

I did the laundry, got the suitcase out of the closet and checked the weather forecasts. Then I put only definite items in the case and set it aside. Because I decided today was the day to look at the forecast one more time and make final adjustments.

Is packing such a process for you? I am still trying to avoid cranky. Cold and wet cranky is like a wet blanket. I think I need a couple of sweatshirts and sweaters in the mix. And a beanie and gloves to layer with my jackets.

I saw this post from a friend on social media saying that the day we sail out of NO LA will be chilly. To this Phoenician that high in the mid-50s will feel icy. I might look like I am heading to Alaska as we sail away but I assure you I am hoping that our captain puts the pedal to the metal. (What is the ship speed equivalent? Anyone know? Full Speed Ahead? Or is my Trekkie-ness showing with that one?)

Anyway. I never really worried about forgetting any thing because my lists have been ready and I will follow them. The dilemma is making adjustments. A reader suggested some capsule bloggers who are masters at packing and wardrobe optimisation. I may watch a few tonight. If anything resonates for me to recommend I will share before I set sail and let you know how it worked. For now, I have some coffee to sip.

Any last minute tips? Any suggestions to add to my “while in NOLA” list?

Posted in lists, packing, Planning, travel, vacation

Another Travel Dilemma…Eating Gluten Free

My excitement is building and I cannot wait to be on vacation. This past week has been a worrisome work week and my annual reset trip is just what I need to escape and come back on the other side with a renewed sense of strength and dignity to face the challenges ahead.

Traveling comes with worries because I have to avoid gluten. It makes me sick. Celiac Disease is not something that everyone understands and this post is not aimed to explain or complain about the challenges I face every day to maintain health. It is simply to share ways to plan options for healthy dining and ensure my traveling companions aren’t worried for me either.

Step One-while I count down days

Before I leave town I am making sure that I am taking care of myself all week. This includes:

  • Clean eating at home
  • Sleeping at least 7 hours each night
  • Taking supplements like probiitics, multivitamins, and immunity boosters like vitamin C
  • Diffusing essential oils at home. Thieves blend is in my diffuser while I sip coffee
  • Relaxation via detox and destress baths, reading, and quiet time whenever possible

Step 2-Know when not to worry

Once I am on the cruise it is easy. Norwegian, like most cruise lines these days ask for dietary restrictions and truly make an effort to provide safe eating options while on board. And for that I am very grateful. I feel quite special when the chefs and dining staff go out of their way to guide me on food selections and specially prepare foods for me when needed…even in the main buffet lines. As long as I seek the help offered I will successfully avoid gluten and fully enjoy my holiday focusing on friends, fun, and non-stop live music. One guideline I follow, no eating in ports. So eat a good solid breakfast and take a prepackaged snack from my go bag.

Step 3-Make a List

New Orleans is a whole different dilemma. Where do I find safe, inexpensive options so that my three days in an amazing city allows me to enjoy the sights and sounds? Research. Lists. Have a plan.

I relied on my friend, Google, and review sites like Yelp, Four Square, and Find Me Gluten Free. And will continue to research. Honestly, I am not the only person in my motley crew of rock boat family who are looking for healthy options. Well, they should be. So I will make sure we have options for vegan, vegetarian, paleo, and diabetic diets. And Coffee! I want to enjoy gumbo, crab cakes and king cakes and anything else that is part of the experience. I cannot eat beignets but my research uncovered a gluten free recipe so if I felt like I missed out, when I get home I will make some.

My list is ready and on paper and in my phone. Why both places? A phone battery can die. A phone can get lost or stolen just like the paper. I am that person who plans for all kinds of outcomes. Crazy? Maybe. But my friends and family, the motley crew, are used to it and sometimes glad because I tend to be the go to person on what to do and where to eat. It is a burden and a blessing. I love them and cannot wait to be spending vacation in a city that is alive with music and festivals.

Step 4-Pack options

As I finish packing, I also bring along in my suitcase and carryon safe snacks like LARA bars, cashews, pecans, Dang chips, and dried fruit. These items are small and can easily slip into my Vera Bradley hipster for times when I need something and in a time crunch, my friends can grab something from a place not gluten friendly and not worry about me. I can always drink coffee and chicory or some famous New Orleans drink and good company. I have a plan for everything.

Any recommendations on where we should eat? What we should see? I have 3 days and I am sure we can squeeze in more options into the plan. Comment below.