It’s that time of year.
For many of you who have shared “first day of school” photos on Facebook, I can see that the routines have already begun. For most folks I know, we are in the last weeks of summer and the routines begin anew after Labor Day. Whichever camp you’re in, it’s time to take stock of how things are working and make adjustments where necessary.
Whether you’re ordering new backpacks or just excited for the next season, this time of year brings opportunities to get organized. Here are a few things I’m focusing on this month.
Evaluate and update your calendar/planner system:
I have bounced back and forth b/w keeping a paper calendar and a digital one. I’ve finally broken down and decided I need to do both. The paper one so I can really see what’s coming (helpful in planning ahead) and digital so I will always have my schedule with me (ideal for when making appointments).
Go ahead and put down all the dates that you know are set. Birthdays, back to school night, vacations, monthly meetings. You think you’ll remember, but I find I forget if it’s not on my calendar.
Conquer the “what’s for dinner” dilemna:
Inspired by Jenny Steffens Hobick and her detailed dinner list, I’m creating one of my own. I’m going through all my favorite cookbooks (which mainly means Ina Garten) and writing down all the recipes I know our family likes or would like, by category. Then, I’ll ask my family to weigh in each Sunday, so I can plan ahead and not rely on the same 5 things we normally have in rotation. 
Update the holiday card list:
Ok…I know it’s still summer, but this is one of those things that really sneaks up on you. Last year, I used Minted’s address assistant and though it took some time on the front end, it was such a relief to have it done when I ordered my cards and have Minted address them. I kept the envelopes of friends who moved and just updated those. So, now it’s done. Of course, I haven’t even begun thinking about a photo for our card, but at least the tedious part is complete.
So, that’s where I’m starting. I made the trek to Staples today for school supplies and am still slugging through my to-do list, but I think if you get a jump on just a few things, it will leave more time for the fun stuff this Fall. In the meantime, back to your summer books, beach days and al fresco dinners.
What do you do to get ready for a new season?
images: day designer, sugar paper, the sarah johnson, minted, jenny steffens hobick