New Summer Schedule

School has ended for Lydia, and she has just now started a new job. We are now in “week three” with this new schedule. I’m trying to adjust, and of course, so is she. We’ve been so used to staying up late during the weeknights that our bodies are still trying to understand that we can go to bed early. And when we do, we still have a difficult time getting up in the morning!

Actually, Lydia has been doing well with her schedule. She has great “gumption” or “drive” when it comes to something she sets her mind to. She’s been getting up and exercising before I even realize she’s moved out of bed.

I’m trying to be more active too. I plan find things that will keep me active, and yet more involved with the kids. Things like going for bike rides, playing catch, and even walking around the neighborhood. I really want to enjoy this summer.

Lydia has also set us on a new eating diet for the summer (and endless future). We’ll see how it goes. She has waited until after school to try and implement it. I tease her that I’m going to die due to the diet, but I’m willing to try and lose some weight. Of course, this will all be good since I’m wanting to be in better shape when we go on another Cruise next year!

We’re also hoping that now we have more time, we’ll be able to hang out with friends from time to time! Hey, what a neat idea… :) Anyone want to take part in a game-night?
 
~Matt

My "Tasks"

I like having a “to-do-list”.

Not that I like having things on the list, but it’s great to have my tasks down on paper. For the most part, I see them as goals to achieve for the day or week. It also holds me accountable for my time. Yes, I have lists for work, for home, and then for design projects I’m working on..

Back in 2010, I tried using the “tasks” feature on gmail to keep me in line. However, at the time, I didn’t find it very practical. So, I’d make my own lists, many time on a piece of notebook paper. Once I started working at KWFC, I made a paper “to-do-list” with checkboxes for each line. I found this to be useful. I’d make a list every week, and then check off what I completed. Those left unchecked would then be transferred to next week’s list. I keep these lists filed, and can pull them out at any time to prove what I’ve done for the week. It’s a great way to keep accountable for my time.

Well, just this past week, I’ve moved back to Google’s Tasks. I found I can add and remove to the list with my phone, besides just using the computer. A friend showed me a neat iPhone app called “GoTasks” that actually allows me to be connected to multiple gmail accounts. This is very helpful since I can use my work account separate from my home account, but yet in one app.

One of the reasons I like Google Tasks is the ability to email and print the tasks. I can specify it to print the completed tasks, so at the end of the work week, my list is then filed. I can also email my task list if needed for staff meetings, etc.

Yes, a “To-Do-List” is a good thing to have. I just have to be sure to follow it!

~Matt