Today is LET’S LOOK!
Once a month, Erika and I do a little link up where we “look” at different aspects of our lives (and then if you blog, you share and link up too!).
Oh heavens.
When I sat down and wrote out the prompts for Let’s Look in 2020…I had no idea what was to come.
Um, they’ve all been wrong.
I’m LOL right now because it’s pretty comical when you stop and think about it.
Let’s look at our prompts…
…now, let’s look at how far off they’ve been.
Um, Easter? Well, we didn’t have church, see family, have an egg hunt or leave our house.
Our weekend? We were all quarantined inside and couldn’t do anything besides click “next episode” on Netflix. Ha!
Our carry on bag? Welllll none of us have traveled in like 6 months, so that’s pretty pointless.
Our summer wardrobe? Workout clothes on repeat! We have nowhere to go.
Bahaha!
Right?
Wait for it…
Here’s what we’ve been “looking” at so far this year…
In January, we looked at our bedside tables.
In February, we looked at our winter wardrobe.
In March, we looked at what’s inside our bags.
In April, we looked at how we typically celebrate Easter.
In May, we looked at our weekend.
In June, we looked at how we can make sure we’re encouraging racial diversity at home
In July, we looked at our summer wardrobes.
And today, we’re looking at our desks.
Here I am right this very minute…
…I’m sitting on a tiny child’s chair in my kids’ upstairs playroom/library working because a) my current laundry room/office is crazy loud and chaotic due to the construction and b) my brand new office caused my entire house to flood and therefore, not only is it not ready…but now, I live in a giant mess all in the name of “making me a real office with a real desk”.
Oh the irony that is 2020. Sigh.
So, since I really am desk-less today, I’ll show you some pics from other days and tell you my “musts” for working at my desk…
…awwwwwww! I love my cozy little laundry room/office. It’s my space. It’s basically where I spend all my time…and even though I’m excited to get a bigger office that makes more sense for having my team over (there will be chairs and room for people to sit while we chat/work on things) plus has an exterior door so that people can come straight to Mix and Match Travel Agency and not walk through my house and end up in the laundry room…even though, I’m happy about my new office, I will miss this cozy little space.
Okay, I don’t know about you, but I have a certain (seasonal, of course!) routine for sitting down and working. Friends, you could set your watches by me. I am super predictable and super structured about how I “do work” each day in order to make myself the most productive and HAPPIEST while I sit there.
MY MUSTS FOR WORKING:
#1: Start with a list…
Every single afternoon, I flip over a fresh new page in my spiral and write out the next day’s “to do” list. I include everything from my quiet time down to work things, phone calls to make, recipes to bake, anything and everything goes on this list in left-hand column. In the right column, I will write (in chronological order) things I need to do along with the time, for instance, I will even write down 5:30: Run and then under it 8:00 Drop off (meaning my kids at school) and on and on. This way, I look at my calendar the afternoon before when writing the list and see exactly what I need to do and make sure I’ve allotted enough time. As I go through my day, I mark off things as I do them. Starting off my morning with a solid list REALLY helps me stay productive and focused.
#2: I always burn…
…a candle 🙂 .
Always.
It sets the tone, the mood…all of it. I burn seasonal candles, so right now, I’ve been burning these Magic Candle Co ones as they smell like Walt Disney World…bright, fresh, and happy. In the fall, I’ll burn pumpkin scents, in winter, evergreen, etc. I always burn a candle. After all of these years, it really does trigger my brain that we’re now “in work mode”.
Speaking of triggering my brain…
#3: I always play music.
I like background music when I work…but not just any kind of music, I like a specific music for specific times of year. From about August until November, I always listen to Steve Tyrell Radio on Pandora. November and December, it’s all Michael Buble Christmas on Pandora and then January until August, I listen to French Cooking Radio on Pandora. Those different stations just get me in the right mood.
Sometimes, I’ll listen to…
…movies instead of music 🙂 . Now, I don’t listen to new movies, but classics that I’ve seen a bazillion times (all with great music!) where I don’t have to pay attention, I can just hear it in the background. These are always on repeat:
Crazy Rich Asians
When Harry Met Sally (the most popular one in my repertoire!)
It’s Complicated
Something’s Got to Give
You’ve Got Mail
Runaway Bride
Bridget Jones’ Diary
and during the holidays…
The Holiday
Love Actually
I will put those on and listen while I work.
Other random “desk and work things”…
1: I always have a drink!
2: I always use basic Bic black ink pens (unless I’m writing in my calendar and then I use colorful Paper Mate Flair markers)
3: I use a ton of Post It notes.
4: I like bright, colorful file folders (nothing boring or beige)
5: I keep a lot of calendars around me…while redundant, it keeps me on track. I use a planner, a desk calendar and then all of my blog content goes on spiral wall calendars (that I just don’t hang).
6: I like lots of books, pics of my family, homemade art, trinkets from my travels and homemade crafts on my desk.
7: I keep a warm blanket by me and a little heater at my feet for when it’s cold.
And that, my friends is how I “do work at my desk”!
Whew!
Okay, tell me about your desk area???? Give me the deets about what makes it happy, peaceful and productive for you!!!
Charmaine Ng | Architecture & Lifestyle Blog says
Thanks for sharing! I don’t even want to look at my own desk – it’s a mess, haha! ❤️✨
Charmaine Ng | Architecture & Lifestyle Blog
http://charmainenyw.com
Lauren says
We are so alike! I always make a to-do list and then try to time it out to make sure I have adequate time for everything. My husband teases me about it that I’m crazy and I “make lists for my lists”, which I won’t deny!!
Thinking about you and your makeshift office. Maybe for next year’s Let’s Look you can add “My Desk” back on and we can see the beautiful new office and desk. This Too Shull Pass, but I hate it for you in this moment.
Mix and Match Mama says
I do too!! We are so much alike!! And thank you, I’ll be excited to share my new office… one day when it’s finally done! 😉
Ahna @ Hammers N Hugs says
Amen to lists, candles, music, and coffee! Also I need that amazing robe you have told me to buy a million times that I will promptly forget to buy again…
Mix and Match Mama says
I’m literally wearing it right now. It is PERFECT! I’ve bought it for my mom, MIL, SIL and both grandmothers over the years too…always a great gift to give!!
Erika Slaughter says
I’m burning that same candle in “my office”….which really means the dining room. 😉
Elspeth says
Thanks so much for sharing your desk! I love always having a to do list to start my day and make sure I get everything done and I love to burn candles when I work too! Have a great week!
http://www.elspethsdaybyday.com
Sheaffer Sims says
You know me, my “desk area” is the couch. Haha!
Mix and Match Mama says
I’ve always admired that about you 😉 .
Christy says
Can you tell us how you use your colored Flair pens effectively in your planner?
Mix and Match Mama says
Everyone in my family is color-coded. I’m green, so everything about me is written in green and so on with everyone else in my family. This cuts down on the words I have to write (frees up more space as I never have to write out Kensington, etc), plus, I can quickly glance at the day/week and see who’s the busiest!
Kate Berryman says
I do the same! Everyone is a different color!
Kara says
Love getting a glimpse into people’s little spaces! I’m a blue only bic pen user! ??
Abbey says
Your little space is SO CUTE! I am guilty as well of listing out my day by time. I started doing it in college and a few friends think I’m crazy but I always know what I can and can’t fit into my day.
Meredith says
Love this! Trying to get better at organizing/planning/lists. If you leave your house, do you carry your list with you?
Mix and Match Mama says
I typically take a picture of it with my phone unless the list is very long and most things are outside of the house.
Tracy says
I’m with Schaeffer! When I first started working from home about 7 years ago, I set up the guest bedroom as a full blown office. But it also became the catch-all room and the clutter and mess just got to me. So, we turned it back into a bedroom and now I just work wherever I feel like working. The couch, the bar, my bed, outside etc. It helps that I don’t need anything other than my laptop. I do want to find a comfy barstool though. Any suggestions???
Natalie says
We go to church, we eat at restaurants, my kids started face to face school yesterday, so life is pretty normal for us! And we got on a plane and traveled. I guess it all depends on where you live. Have a great day!
Mix and Match Mama says
Send those vibes right down here to us, please!!!
Ashley says
Love it! Would love to see a post of how you’re setting up your kiddos desks for virtual learning.
Mix and Match Mama says
Me and you both! I haven’t quite figured it out yet…
Mara Kreiling says
Yes, I would love to see ideas from people for virtual learning areas! I’ve been WFH since March and my “office” is a desk in our front living room…. not ideal.
Tracy says
I love a basic Bic pen but blue is my color choice. 🙂
Mix and Match Mama says
There really is nothing better!
Sarah says
I’m going to adopt your list process! I basically have a spiral for the to-do list and a small planner for work/scheduling times, but combining into one spiral will make things so much easier!
Mix and Match Mama says
I hope you like it! Sitting down every day with a fresh list in front of me helps so much!
MelanieL says
I’ve always loved your laundry room office! I am curious…where will you do your QT and blog work once your new travel agency office space is complete? Will you still use the laundry office for those things?
Mix and Match Mama says
I do that at my dining room table. I’ve always enjoyed doing it there because there are zero distractions (work, a computer, email, etc).
Ashley says
Do you have a tip for not forgetting to put out your candle? I love them but can’t tell you how many times I’ve turned my car around and driven back home when I finally remembered ??♀️
Mix and Match Mama says
Ohhhh…I don’t think I have a tip…I think I’m just really OCD about things. That being said, stick a Post It on your backdoor to remind you about your candle before you walk out!
Dana says
I tell my Echo to remind me to blow it out when I need it to be blown out! I felt so smart once I realized I could do that. 🙂
Valerie Allen says
Thanks for today’s post, Shay! Today is my kiddos first day of “virtual” school, and unlike years previous, I feel so disorganized and not prepared. I’m totally off my game and this post has given me a sense of a fresh start! Also, can you do a post of what specific candles you like? I’ve been using mostly Yankee Candle and sometimes Nest candles off and on for years, and I’m ready to try something new. I’ll definitely check out Magic Candle Co because it will remind us of our trip to Disney two years ago.
Mix and Match Mama says
My very, very, very favorite are Circle E Candles (buy them online straight from them!). Get Apple Strudel and Country Morning this time of year. In my office, I burn Bath and Body Works candles.
Valerie Allen says
Thanks, Shay! I’ll check them out.
Kim Fulton says
okay…I do the same thing with the movies. Its perfect background noise :)-your movie list is similar to mine. I have to admit the Crazy Rich Asians has been at the top of mine. Good luck on the next stretch of your construction.
DIANE GLOVER says
I ENJOYED SEEING YOUR MOVIES LIST. I USE THE SAME WITH THE ADDITION OF A FEW OTHERS. THESE ARE OLDER “CLASSICS” IN MY OPINION. THEY ARE : NOTTING HILL SLEEPLESS IN SEATTLE
FOOLS RUSH IN FOUR WEDDINGS AND A FUNERAL
FRENCH KISS THE WEDDING DATE
MOON STRUCK
DIANE GLOVER says
SORRY —- SHOULD HAVE PLACED COMMAS ! IT SHOULD READ NOTTING HILL, SLEEPLESS IN SEATLE, FOOLS RUSH IN, FOUR WEDDINGS AND A FUNERAL, FRENCH KISS, THE WEDDING DATE, AND MOONSTRUCK
Christina says
I would love to see a post about how you have your kiddos set up at their desk/work areas for NTI school work this year.
Mix and Match Mama says
Oh heavens, me too!!! It’s happening tomorrow, but I think due to the noise and construction, it’s going to vary and change as we figure out what’s best.
Dana says
I love this! You make me want to get a desk and get all squared away. ? I feel like I have so much in common with you, but where we part ways is having the same day every day!! I love variety. I suppose I could try the skeleton of your day and just make sure there is lots of variety build into that? For example, I have a whole tea drawer because I never want to drink the same one every day and I drink 2 different cups at each sitting. ? A little eccentric, no? ☕️ And life is interesting because my husband could eat the exact same meal every day for the rest of his life and never get tired of it.
Mix and Match Mama says
I love that, Dana! I, of course, drink my coffee with seasonal creamer. Ha!
Jody says
A whiteboard is my “must have”! My husband makes fun of me for color coding everything on it. Nothing says productive like erasing the whole thing! ?
Mix and Match Mama says
I love to color code!!!
Sarah Covington says
Oh my gosh, this makes me feel so much better about the way I organize my desk and work space! I have two white board calendars (a weekly and a monthly), as well as a planner to make sure I’m on top of everything. And I use so many post-it’s, I could single handedly keep that company going. I need to get on board with this whole candle at the desk thing though. I currently keep a bottle of peppermint oil at my desk for when I get stressed, but a nice candle sounds so much more relaxing!
Susy says
I recommend Cloth and Paper so highly! They are a subscription/website with the most elegant agenda and desk products!! Nothing cute here! Instead, sophisticated agenda tabs, calendar and list markers, notepads and the most amazing pens! And it is owned by a black woman so doing so much good on that front too. You would love it! I give their subscriptions for gifts but also order for myself!
Rebecca says
Hi, this is kind of office related. Although I’ve always had an iPhone, I’ve only had a pc & pc laptop. I’ve wanted a MacBook for awhile & see you have one. What do you think? Is it worth the hype? Also, I’ve heard it’s a lot faster than a pc. I know for iCloud & pics transferring from my phone, it would be easy, but just your general thoughts.
As always, thanks for your blog. For many years you’ve been my go to for recipes. Also fashion, but I’m trying to be better in the pandemic, I’m so conflicted about the anniversary sale & if I buy just a couple of things! ?
Thanks! ?
Beth Valenta says
I love seeing pens, lists, and candles! Makes me giddy! I confess I just came home with candle white pumpkin and sweater weather. Pure zen moments. I am now working on my 3 X 3 for the kids to see me do my counseling lessons. I welcome ideas to keep kids really engaged. I have worn costumes, use props, etc….but always I get…what is that flag behind you or is that your dog? LOL virtual is to say the least an adventure of go with the flow. Here is to fall and being able to wear my UGGS in my space.
Patty says
I’ve never had a desk, so I just work wherever I happen to be in the house. And I make lists, too, but on stickies on the desktop of my laptop. Easy peasy to add, delete, prioritize, etc. I take a picture of it when I leave the house if it’s long. I used to use a Franklin Covey planner, but it became a pain to take it with me. Now I use iCal and can update my calendar from my phone and pull it up easily while I’m out and about.
When our kids were still living at home, the color coding would have been GENIUS!
I think you and I would get along just fine, lol!
Amanda @ That Inspired Chick says
Ahhhh! Happy accident that I blogged about the boys’ desks/workspaces today and get to link up!! I never remember to do that with Let’s Look! Of course, I’m not completely on topic since it wasn’t MY desk but close enough. ? Can’t wait to see your new office!!
That Inspired Chick
Joanne says
I wasn’t even thinking what shambles your office would be in for this! I never think of burning candles or listening to music but I do often work with my TV or an old favorite movie going that i don’t have to pay close attention to.
Erin Whitson says
I use a TON of Post Its too, and a friend gifted me this Treasure Chest of Post Its! Im in heaven! I’ve even thought that these would make great teacher gifts, but they may also think im nuts for giving them that many Post Its, who knows!
https://www.staples.com/Post-it-Treasure-Chest/product_714276
Gina says
Thank you Shay for this post! I so needed this. 2 questions: where did you find the white frame bulletin board and do you recommend the paper mate markers for your Erin condren planners?
Thank you
Mix and Match Mama says
I found it years ago at Pottery Barn Teen and yes, love them!!
Lucy Bertoldi says
I would definitely miss that cute office space too! Seems like such a compact and obvious place for an office that I’d love to be in! And love your tips too- making lists is something I’m addicted to! Please come link up this fun post over at my blog for my weekly Fabulous Friday! xx
Sarah Shaneyfelt says
I love this Shay! I loved getting a peek into your life. I’m very structured, too, so I love a good routine. It makes me feel safe and secure lol! Crazy but it does!
Emily says
What is your plan for your current desk space when your travel agency office opens?
Mix and Match Mama says
Andrew is moving his home office downstairs 🙂 .
Kacy M says
At my desk I keep a jar of pens, my Bible/quiet time journal, lamp, and a framed handlettered Forrest Gump (life is like a box of chocolate) quote a friend made/gave me.
Kelly Bonner says
What will happen to your old office when the remodel is done?
Mix and Match Mama says
Andrew is going to move his home office downstairs and then upstairs, the kids will now have a workspace for school.
Claire F says
Hi Shay!! Do you have any recommendations for a product to replace my Clarisonic Mia exfoliator now that the company is out of business and replacement heads are difficult to come by?!? I’ve always loved this product that I got because of your blog!!! Thank you!!
Mix and Match Mama says
Oh no? Have you checked Amazon! I think you can find them there!
Ruth says
hi Shay, I really enjoyed this post and how routine you are. My office is my second home and I try to stick to a daily schedule but it often goes awry. I wish I could burn candles, but it’s considered a fire hazard where I work. 😉 so I use my oil diffuser. I also love my music when I’m working and it’s more often than not Pandora’s Epic Soundtracks, people walk in and sometimes ask if I’m watching a movie if they catch a certain song. I did wanted to mention that Trader Joe’s has these amazing summer candles that I’m currently burning at home. It’s a box of three with watermelon, strawberry and pineapple. They are seriously amazing and make my home smell like summer. I’m with you in that I like using candles that smell like the current season we are in.
Abby G says
I feel like I just read a description of my desk/office!! The only other thing to add is that it needs to be tidy. I can’t have stuff all over the place. This is where my obsession with things being put away comes through!