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How Routines Make my Days Better

A part ofSustainable Living that doesn't get much attention is Routines.  For some of us, it's because they're so routine that we don't give them any thought (Yea!)  But for me, it's something that I didn't learn at my mother's knee, and so it's been a challenge.

When I first had children and moved from my days being dictated by my work schedule to staying home, I struggled with my home time -- how to fill it, and at the same time, how to get everything done that needed to be done.  And then one day I stumbled across Flylady (www.flylady.net) and the world of routines opened up to me.

I learned about Morning Routines and Bedtime Routines.  I learned about Cleaning Routines and Meal Planning Routines.  And honestly, I cried.  Because up until that time, I thought I was the only one struggling.  And then I dove in to learn my routines.  It was hard learning these new habits, I mean I wasn't totally unhappy with wearing my pjs until 10am!  But I persevered until they became..  well, routine.

Because it wasn't just about me, but it was also about my family.  And I learned so much about how my choices were affecting them.  I'm happier now with my routines and so is my family.  I don't have to work so hard at getting them done now as I did at the start, but...  I do still check them off my To Do list.  It gives me a feeling of accomplishment.

How does your morning routine look?  Is it working for you?

Here's a peek into mine:

Get dressed -- check

Laundry -- check

















Swish, Swipe, & Sweep Bathroom -- check






Make Bed -- check














Chickens -- check













Pack lunch -- check

Make breakfast -- check














Of course I still have dishes to wash up, but I may just cheat and leave them until lunch.  So now, I'm off to the grocery store and then morning tea and a play with friends.
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