May can be a very hectic and crazy month for all of us.
If you are a parent of school age children or an empty nester there is plenty to do.
Sometimes May can be just as busy as December. That is why I think it is so important to talk about making lists and keeping schedules.
I would recommend sitting down and first list what I call your "knowns", your scheduled events; then write it on, punch it or type it into your calendar (one main family calendar is best). List parties at school, awards programs, end of school events, field days, graduations, graduation parties, weddings, meetings, and Doctor's appointments.
A little tip, when writing on your calendars, give each member of the family a different color. It will be easy to recognize at a quick glance.
Next, break down these events and see what needs to be done for each one. This is where making those lists come in. Ask questions like, will I need to bake or purchase anything for the school party?
What gifts do I need to buy this month for the teacher, graduate or upcoming weddings? Do I need to take papers or records to the Doctor appointment?
Let's not forget either, about all the seasonal things that have to be done around the house.
Spring cleaning, cleaning out the gardens, getting out the patio furniture, and cutting the grass. These chores should also be scheduled.
Sunday evenings are always a great time for me to look at the upcoming week's schedule to see what lies ahead. It is also the time I add anything that I may have missed, or that has come up since I last checked my calendar.
Planning ahead by updating your calendar and making lists, will save you time and possibly even eliminate some stress, and who doesn't want that.
This past month I attended NAPO"S (National Association of Professional Organizers) yearly conference. As usual it was a great experience. They always have an Expo on products for us to check out. I usually don't get too excited about new products, but I found one that I would like to pass on to you.
It is all about lists. It's called ListPlanIt. It has the most comprehensive
number of list's I have ever seen. Check it out on their website at
www.ListPlanIt.com. If you end up loving it as much as I did, and want to purchase it, please use the link on my website,
www.organizitall.com, which my tech guy will have there in a couple of days. I am now affiliated with her.
We are so close to summer you can almost feel those warm sunshine rays hitting you. With summer comes VACATION. For all of you who are fortunate enough to be able to take one this year, stay tuned. Next month's e-tip will be all about getting ready and organizing for the trip.
Live Simply
Joan
