One of the challenges of being a stay-at-home mom, for me, is always being "at work." Sometimes I have trouble giving myself time to relax when I see household tasks that remain undone, especially in the evenings.
One thing that has helped is every morning deciding my five important things, my priorities for the day (an idea I learned from Crystal). Once I identify what is most important for me to do that day, I can organize my time to get those done, and eliminate the guilt that comes from not accomplishing everything on my huge (unrealistic) to-do list. (By the way, there are days when not all my five things get accomplished--but other things take their place which are equally valuable, so I try not to guilt myself.)
Along with that, it's been nice in the evenings to think back on the things that were accomplished, and recognize which weren't, all the while realizing that what was done is good, and what wasn't done can wait. I've been calling this "Done & Undone."
I'll often be posting my Done & Undone lists, and would love for you to join me. Be thinking of your own, if you like; and next time I post my Done & Undone, I'll include a Mr. Linky for you. Or you can just leave a comment if you prefer.
Since today's not over yet, I'll do one for yesterday:
Done
1. Took Kardelen to ECFE, Sofia to a friend's house
2. Made snacks in the morning to bring to ECFE
3. Played outside with Jacob and the girls for a long time
4. Did 2 loads laundry and part of the dishes while my Mother's Helper was here
5. Made a birthday present for someone special after kids went to bed
Undone
1. Never finished all the dishes
2. Didn't sweep the floor
3. Left the last load of laundry in the dryer (didn't fold or put away)
4. Didn't return a phone call
5. Didn't get a package ready for mailing today--we'll send it tomorrow instead
Overall, we had a wonderful day. You can tell I had much more fun than I did cleaning, but today the pendulum swung back the other way, and I've done a good bit of tidying up the house. I like that part of balance--that you can have free-fun days, and just catch up on the housework on other days. (As long as you actually do it. :) )
How about you? I love hearing what your family life is like, as well as your time management tips. Please leave a comment and share with us!
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By the way, Lindsey's posting today about the book Shopping for Time and what she's learned from it. Check it out!
7 comments:
What a great idea.
I love making lists.
Love this thread and will be linking to it when you start setting up a Mr. Linky!
Today isn't over but here's my lists:
DONE:
Babysat my friend's daughter for pay for 5.5 hours
Wiped/dumped potty chair for 2 2-year olds who go potty often
Took 3 little ones into my daughter's preschool and taught a course on how to make Apple Cinnamon Muffins for the kids in Ali's class. Kept Arianna and Jer immobile in high chairs and had a couple of wonderful grandparents who helped.
Made lunch for 6 people. Cleaned up.
Straightened the living room and de-cluttered.
Did 2 loads of laundry. Will fold 4 loads tonight.
Made two pies (crust from scratch) for St. Paddy's dinner tonight with my folks and the newlyweds.
Prepped and mailed about 8 letters/bills that needed to go out.
Disciplined kids who were fighting
Read Little House on the Prairie to all kids
Kept Ali busy during her bro's nap time.
Shopped for a new skirt at thrift store with 3 kids along!
E-mailed the grandparents a St. Paddy's day photo of kids
Undone:
Dishes (lots to do tomorrow morning!) But less than could have been thanks to your paper plates!
A couple of more letters to mail
More paperwork for medical bills
Vacuuming
Hmm. A bday present.. I wonder who it's for...?
Surely it couldn't be...?
No!!! Hmm...?
I have a system somewhat like this.
chores will always be there, and come again readily. Fun memories last forever in our minds and the minds of our children. Strive to keep the pendulem in the fun directions favor ;-) your see see
Mrs. Jo--wow, thanks for sharing! One of the things I like about this activity is that it really gives us a realistic look at people's lives. It's fun to step inside your home! :)
outdoor.mom--thanks for your great advice.
I confess I forgot all about folding laundry last night after we got home from the family supper so now it's on today's list! I fold about 4 loads every other day or so and listen to my Bible on CD at the same time.
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