By Laurie
Summer is almost over.
Heavy sigh.
And even if the calendar still holds an official month of the season, the television, newspaper (remember those?) and online ads are here to tell you that it's back to school time, kids. In fact, loads of little people I know went back last week -- which just seems cruel when the pools are still open.
But the truth is, I'm going back too, because I'm a teacher -- of the college variety. I head back to work next week and the semester starts a scant week later. One of the reasons I ended up in education was my innate dorkiness and the fact that I mentally operate on an academic year schedule. It's my Circadian rhythm or a sickness, depending upon your perspective.
One of the things I like best about it is the chance to start with a clean slate every September, and what that means is new school supplies. (Also new shoes, but that's another post.)
It's true. I can have as much fun -- and drop almost as much money -- in an office supply store as I can in Sephora or Target. I love markers and notebook. I agonize over calendars and organizers. And this year, I'm determined to keep myself on time and in order, so I'm paying particular attention to what I purchase, because you know, I want to actually use it.
Luckily for me there are some fun and even beautiful options out there to keep my more mundane chores in check.
Pretty and colorful things are the sugar that help the medicine of planning and organizing go down for me. I'm still using the dated 2010 journal/dream book that I purchased at the very cool Green With Envy boutique in Charlotte this winter. It has a page for every week with slots for every day, and accordion-style pockets in the front. It is also beautifully illustrated by mixed media artist Anahata Katkin.
Image courtesy of PapayaArt.com
It's more of a big-picture planner, with quotes that make me think, and I find myself making general notes to myself more than precise plans on its pages. The calendar runs out on December 31, but I can see myself using it even after then, as a reference and a guide. Plus I'll be after her 2011 version for sure.
Speaking of colors, I am addicted to markers in general, but Sharpies specifically. Last year's favorite acquisition was the limited edition Cafe Colors set. This season, they've got a Caribbean Colors option. Again, pretty, but not quite as bold as I like. That doesn't mean I won't blow money on them though. Plus the "flamingo" option is pretty.
Image courtesy of Sharpie.com
I can't be blowing money on eating lunch out of the office this semester. I just can't. MomofTwoBoysDesigns is one of the Etsy sellers who provides a stylish option for carting my salad and Greek yogurt along for the ride.
Image courtesy Mom of Two Boys Designs
Moleskine notebooks are hugely popular for a reason. I failed to purchase the "color a month" yearly planner option this year, but in December I will be on the ball. They are small and portable, or if you're like me and lose everything that isn't nailed down, you can leave them in a box on your desk.
Choose the right Moleskine for you, here. For this semester, I'm picking up the Wellness Journal. If I'm not feeling good about myself, I'm just not that effective in any way. I have fallen hard off the fitness wagon and need to get back on. This one has a Diet, Exercise Log, a space for personal goals, general health, games, inspirations.
6 tabbed sections to personalize and 16 blank pages for notes. Along with my online organizers, having one in my face will help to keep me honest and on point, I hope.
Image courtesy of Moleskine
Finally, because I'm an old-fashioned girl when it comes down to it, I'll stop by my college bookstore and buy an academic year planner with our logo on it, some felt-tip pens and probably some fun notebooks too. It just feels right this time of year, and it's time to get back to business.
Happy back to school for everyone that applies to, and even if it doesn't, you may want to pick up some new pens or a fresh journal. I promise it'll probably make you feel better. There's nothing like a fresh start -- even if it's just on paper.
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