10 Things Before 10

We’re well into the autumn season – and with that comes a return to routine. September is usually crazy and by now we’re starting to settle into our routine. Gone are the days of the kids staying up late, followed by lounging in pajamas until 9 am. Even though I don’t have school-aged children (yet), I always feel ready to get back on track with schedules and have a bit more structure when fall rolls around.

As regular readers of the blog may know I have two boys: Kellan (2 ½) and Myles (7 months). Between changing bums, feeding mouths, and keeping the boys entertained I find it hard to keep on top of all the things that need to be done in our home.

There is a reason women are better at multitasking

I recently went out for a much needed ladies night (a local restaurant has a ladies night every Monday that can’t be beat- four drinks and four appetizers for $40). We got on topic of keeping our houses clean & organized (the things you start talking about post kids). My one girlfriend shared some advice that works for her and, so far, (knock on wood) it has been a huge help to me.

It’s called “10 things before 10.” It’s basically a race against the clock.

The list of 10 things should include the obvious like getting kids dressed, shower, feed breakfast and make beds. But add on emptying and reloading the dishwasher, fold a load of laundry, call the doctor to make that appointment, wipe-down counters, you get the idea. The list should rotate – one day you clean the bathrooms, the next you clean windows. And before you know it this will all become habitual!

I have been doing this for the past few weeks and I love it. I get things done, have my much needed coffee at 10 am and then relax in the afternoon.

So here is a question for all the moms out there – how do you do it? Do you have a daily/weekly routine that works for you? Especially for you working moms, or those of you with lots of kiddos. If you have any tricks I (and I know lots of our readers) would love to hear what works for you. Leave us a comment and let us know your tips.

About Lydia

My name is Lydia and I am a momma (still can’t believe that)! My husband and I recently upgraded to be a family of four. We have two precious boys- Kellan (a chatty 2.5 year old) and Myles (a feisty 8 month old)- life sure is busy but we wouldn't change it for the world! I have been working in the baby industry for the past 5 years so when asked if I would be interested in doing some product blogging while on mat leave I couldn’t resist! I am hoping to help all the mommas (& dads) out there who want honest, reliable information in the crazy world of baby products- enjoy! check out my blog at http://itsmommyapproved.blogspot.ca/
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  • http://twitter.com/managertomom Kristy C

    Love this, Lydia! I sometimes challenge myself with “race against the clock” type cleaning/chore frenzies (e.g. at 1:30 when my daughter goes down for her nap I’ll give myself, say, 7 tasks to do by 2:15 after which I allow myself to have personal time). I also do something similar after our daughter goes to bed at night, attempting to do the evening chores within a fairly aggressive timeframe. It’s a good way to turn menial tasks into a sort of challenge, and then feel accomplished & on top of things when you succeed! (or at least get close :)

  • Lindsey

    so glad it worked for you!!