Back in the Saddle Again

I'm always assured that I'm not alone in having a 'mental countdown' right before school begins. With only a few days left of summer, I'm preparing my household (buying convenience foods, organizing closets, etc.) for my return to school. I think this inner drive to prepare myself for my return is seeded in one of the many traits that my parents instilled into my character - being organized. I recently read that organizational skills help boost grades. These skills also help kids stay on track and finish tasks on time. Using a calendar helps children set short time lines so nothing is surprising them at the last minute. Holly Johnson, PhD from the University of Cincinnati (published in Woman's Day magazine) suggests that when a goal is met, place a check mark on the calendar so your child can see their progress toward their goal. Sounds like something that we could initiate for our new school year.
I'm sure that you would have a real chuckle if you could only see my calendar. From supporting my spouse in his medical treatments, pouring a cement slab for my one storage shed, erecting privacy fence and making homemade grape jelly, my calendar looks cluttered with red check marks. For myself, I feel inner satisfaction with knowing how accomplished I am.
I'm looking forward to being "Back in the Saddle Again".