Mad March Fledglings Fly in to action 2020

[Sizeablecontours]

A warm welcome to the monthly thread where we (loosely) follow the Flylady housekeeping system here to combat CHAOS (Can't Have Anyone Over Syndrome) with lots of virtual wine, chat and mutual support along the way. The thread leader of the month will post a link to Flying activities daily. Quite a few of us have been on here for a while, so we may seem cliquey, but we really aren't, and all newcomers, lurkers, returnees, regulars, and intermittent regulars are very welcome!

Very simply, Flylady is a zone-based cleaning system which we follow to varying degrees, depending on our individual homes, circumstances and energy levels. There are five zones and at the beginning and the end of the month we usually straddle Zone 1 and Zone 5. When you first start decluttering, cleaning, and organizing your zones, Flylady encourages you to spend 15 minutes per day decluttering in the current zone.

Each week, we work in a different zone. Each month, we repeat all the zones. After a few months of following this system consistently, you should start to see an improvement in the main areas of your house.

Pop on to the Flylady website to have a closer look about how to get started here but signing up for emails will probably lead to very many landing in your inbox. Also there has been some concern about securely downloading pdfs from the site so proceed with caution.

The Babysteps system is a light 31-day introduction to the system which familiarises you with Flylady routines (such as dressing to shoes, shining your sink etc) and with her philosophy, which emphasises self-care, her abhorrence of perfectionism and the adage that you’re never behind - just jump in where you are at - even if you only do 5 mins work, that is so much better than doing nothing at all!

There is a morning routine and an evening routine to keep things ticking over and a weekly home cleaning hour (which most of us find tight!) to change bed sheets, mop, hoover, take out rubbish etc. We've found over the years that the system isn’t brilliant for major decluttering so you might want to supplement with Kondo or another decluttering system. Flylady doesn’t want us cleaning all day so she is very keen on using a timer. Clean and declutter with focus, then stop and do something more interesting instead!

In addition each day has a purpose, see the daily focus here:
Monday: weekly home cleaning hour (can be split into ten minute sections and spread over week)
Tuesday: plan and play (menu planning, family event planning, doc appts etc)
Wednesday: anti-procrastination day
Thursday: errand day
Friday: clear out purses, bags, cars, date night
Saturday: family fun
Sunday: lift your spirits.

Don't hesitate to ask if you have any qs. And remember, there is NO wrong or right way of doing this, it is about adapting the system to suit your life circumstances, which will be different from someone else's, so feel free to ignore any step or routine that doesn't suit you or your home! And don't be put off by the barftastically twee language of the Flylady site, as the underlying system is sound.

And if/when it all gets too much: come and take a seat by the fire in our candelit, specially adapted, virtual "naughty" corner where you can retreat and enjoy all manner of lovely things such as fluffy pillows warm blankets, fine teas, strong coffee, and platters of sumptuous foodstuffs offered with lashings of support from fellow fledglings.

There may be mention of Ned (and his cousins Ted and Fred) who started their lives as autocorrections, but who have morphed in to virtual helpers, and are borrowed by thread members from time-to-time when the going gets tough on Mount Washmore.

Most days we pop on to post our "to do" and "ta da" lists of what we’ve managed to do and have a bit of a natter. Please don't compare your list with someone else's as this is all about individual progress.

More info follows (but again, please note we advise only looking at the pdfs and not downloading them):

** launch pad (general guidance and info) here

** daily babysteps pdf (ignore the ones that don't suit you or your home) here

** week day missions (some fledglings find it easier to do them at weekends) here

** info about zones (explanation of how zones work) [[http://www.flylady.net/d/br/2017/09/02/please-explain-the-zones/

here]]

** weekly zones (a rough weekly guide to which area of the house we are tackling currently, again adapt to suit yourself) [[http://www.flylady.net/d/getting-started/flying-lessons/zones/

here]] and here

** daily focus (helpful guide to allocate a certain day for a certain task) here

** deep cleaning lists pdf (only attempt when you have decluttered as you can't clean clutter!) here

Habit of the month: here

An explanation about the March habit of the month: Getting Dressed to Shoes here

Good luck and happy Flying one and all!

*

Many thanks to Tinselette from whom I have stolen and adapted quite a bit of this introduction!

*

And last, but definitely not least, a huge thank you to Expletive for running a really fast-moving February thread so splendidly

*

Reading about cats should always be counted as a success foxes. Well I have just gone to find out what is going on as really the kids should be in bed. DH and girls all snuggled in front of the telly watching a programme about ship building. So maybe some education is taking place after all .

That sounds really positive Stressy, after all! Well done on reading foxes. Dd and Ds3 got work done today but I'm not convinced about DS2. He's now taken the dog out, so will at least have got some fresh air.

Dinner was at least all of us in one place, even if DS1 had couscous with salad veg and mozzarella, DH Ds2 and I had cottage pie with broccoli, DD had tomato soup with cheese scones and Ds3 had fishfingers and veg! Not sure I can keep up these mix and match teas, though.

@Lisette1940, @Bowerbird, I'm looking for information on the topography around Kincardine O'Neil / Banchory-Ternan. I have a family group who rotate slowly round several villages around there including Aboyne, Craigmyle etc and I need to work out how easy that might have been, but I am not a natural map reader. SC I am sort of writing a book in that I'm a historian than makes it pay by doing family tree research for other people. Only one family will likely ever read this, but it needs to be right!

I am now in the bath (like give), with a mint and liquorice tea, my book and some quiet Mozart on my phone. See you all tomorrow!

Welcome givemeacall 👋
Your bath picture really reminds me that tomorrow I must have a bath and change my PJ's I've had the same ones on since Monday 🙈

Flying wise I got all laundry dried on the line and ironed. The one isolation thing I'm enjoying is the empty laundry basket. Also S&S and ran the hoover round as DH was hanging a door so there was bits of sawdust everywhere which really left me no choice.

DC 1&2 have cracked on with their school work. DS3 hasn't done any official 'work' today but he's painted salt dough and a picture, drew another couple of pictures and made an Eve's pudding. I also did some phonics work with him with the letter tiles we have and he's done some cutting and sticking. His last lesson of the day was to have a bath because after being in the garden lots today he was minging.

Me and DH have just done a Facebook live pub quiz which was fun even though we only got 22/50. Even had a couple of beers to make it seem more realistic 🤣

Willow that sounds amazing. DH knows Aberdeen well. I have a very bright nephew living there at the moment. We lived up that way but on the coast between there and Inverness.
What exactly do you need to know? My eldest DS1 has been on a course about map reading recently for walking. He is self isolating at present.

Giveme we had a bath with a shower over but the kids were always moving the shower head and it leaked down the side and on kitchen wall so regretfully we took it out and have a large Matsui shower instead. We have a window there so had to fork out for a large one. The guy that did the tiles didn’t do them properly and water has got behind because he just dabbed it in each corner instead of all over. I am not bothered about the Inconvenience just worried about their family. He is such a pleasant lad.
I have changed sheets today and have just been for my 🛀 if I knew how to upload photos I would take one to show you. I have a basin ( think the sort you might put in sink) I use for felting and that is what I am standing in and now I have found the jug I can rinse off if i am careful not to wet the new plaster. I found a new bar of lovely soap so now I feel all lovely and clean.

Ah not of me just the set up 🤣😂🤣😳

00000000000000000000000000000000000000000000000000000000XXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXX

Good morning everyone! How the jeff is it Friday already?

Baby-step no. 27 for Friday 27th (very timely for you Expletive! ): here.

Launch pad link containing info on zone, missions, detailed cleaning, flight plan, reminders etc etc is: here.

Have a good one! Remember we are cleaning out our purses/handbags/cars today! If you run a car, might be a good idea to keep the petrol tank topped up (just in case) next time you are out in it.

§§§§§§§§§§§§§§§§§§§§§§§§§§§§§§§§§§§§§§§§§§§§§§§§§§

KCC

Going with a music theme today ... .

For calming vibes you cannot beat:

From a more educational standpoint:
here are five pieces of music your child should know (apparently!) courtesy of S.Q.U.I.L.T. (Super Quiet Uninterrupted Listening Time).

Children's music activity: make your own kazoo. (It works with tracing paper/baking parchment as well as waxed paper.)

And finally, today's calming painting is another Vermeer: Lady at the virginal/The Music Lesson.

Hope you can make the most of today everyone! You are all doing brilliantly!

0000000000000000000000000000000000000000000000000000000XXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXX

Wow Willow what an amazing job to have!

Your schedule sounds really good Givemeacall! I might encourage dd to adopt it . Hope your ds2 is OK?

Hope the much deserved bubble baths (or nearly-bath in Bowers case ) and gins went down well last night!

The breaking news here is that.... drum roll please... I can actually see the boudoir bed! Yaayyyyyyy! Just about to go and "do an early morning Zoo" and clean under it!

Have a good one fledglings! And keep washing those hands/doorknobs/cupboard, fridge and kettle handles!

advice please,and everyone's opinion

So I had huge text row with DP.hes off now til Sunday,was due to be evicted his flat but that's on hold as plans to move didn't happen as new letting agent now locked down,so he's pretty stressed and that's to be expected.
Anyway I text him when he asked can I come over and explained things here are pretty tough(he doesn't cope well in anxious environment) and then couple hours later I bit bullet and said it wasn't wise he visit til things settle as he's effectively ignoring gov advice about visiting houses of others.HE WENT OFF THE DEEP END.
For context he has form only sitting with D's gaming,not giving girls attention and expects to be fed and watered.discipiline has always been my job.hes what's referred on MN as a Disney dad tbh.if he tired or has a cold etc he doesn't come,even when he's said to zoolets he will.he never answers his phone,nor replys texts unless suits him.i do not know his work address or number,and he cannot have mobile on during work hours so have no contact in emergency
I suggested Skype or similar as way stay in touch.he ignored me.i request is this ignoring me or walking away.i was treated to angry tirade and" I am so full of rage best not contact me again right now"
It's making me question am I doing the right thing?I not trying to score points or be unfair to anyone.by put this in place I "lose" only adult contact I have other than dd1 so am essentially cut off last ties except you for guys,so it's not to my "benefit"
DS has asthma,and girls both get chesty with colds,I currently have palpitations and get very out if breath if try to exercise/exert myself(ok walking regular pace,but not uphill) I feel better after stop for few minutes.
He's not taken this pandemic seriously,adamant if upright will go to work regardless.hasnt been interested in gov advice updates and I doubt considered social distancing important.handwashing has been nagged here requires more than rinse under cold tap 10secs...
Am I missing a less Draconian solution?
Anyone?

Honestly Zoo- he takes so much more than he gives, even in normal times. And now, that can only be worse. The rules are not to go to other people's houses. If he comes he jeopardises all your health and helps spread the CV. He's not taking any of the rules seriously. Stand firm, we've got your back. If you need practical help local volunteers, church friends etc will be there.

Thanks for quick reply ED
I just question if I'm being selfish/damaging (particularly for the girls) a fragile relationship
He never texts/rings the girls unless they make first moves.he does text D's but D's does most of the running
I tried to explain it was as much for him as us,if he saw us and we were infected but symptomless then he got sick and end up on ventilation we would never forgive ourselves
I also very aware he has no one else,front sister on South coast,but they don't chat often as he ignores her texts too half the time(we ineast)

We have never lived together,he chose that.i know now that he was living with one parent,then otherbut claiming was his home...it's complicated,anyway he's always lived those that let him have whatever he wants regardless impact to them as it's easier than the fallout so this is first time he's ever been told no and it's not going well
If he lived with me I wouldn't get benefits and he used swanning off expensive haircuts,buying computer games,linen shirts etc as he works he's entitled to these luxuries,I don't do my own fault I have holes in shoes til kids get new ones first...
I making him sound right arsehole and I don't mean tohis mum once said he is a very difficult person to be around most of the time,but when hes on form he's kindest loving man that makes it worthwhile sticking with it

Sorry,I started rambling
If he moved in he wouldn't cope restrictions of spending/being on breadline etc
He wouldn't like having us in his face 24/7 when wanted zone out
He would sleep loads and I'd be resentful if him "needing his rest"
He wouldn't help shop if ment walking and was raining
If he gave up working to get benefits (he does find working very hard,analysing every comment,not trusting anyonesits on fence do much must have splinters up his arse)as has MH issues and lane has said many times privately thinks ASD also he could technically go off sick but cost to all out MH would be beyond measure

That's another thing, your girls. He is not a good influence or role model for what they should be looking for in future partners. Whereas you are showing them that
it is possible to be independent and self sufficient. I know it's easy for me to say as I've never been in this situation though

x-posted, I have wondered about ASD too.

To do!

I have been frittering my time away on my phone too much. I have decided to get back to short, realistic lists. Today is technically my day off work but we've agreed to try out a virtual meeting this afternoon and I have online yoga this morning. Also getting a washing machine delivered (fingers crossed as the old one is on the patio now).

So, to do.

Prepare dinner (just for once we have got a proper meal planned)
Tidy coffee table dump
Tidy away a pile of papers from the kitchen table
Start menu planning / shopping list for next week.

Yes, DS2 got his playdate, thanks SC. It was fun. They took interest in the pictures on each other's clothes (we had dungarees with little robin patch pockets this time and the other little boy had planets and stars on his top) and each showed the other a favourite toy that the other admired. They also did peepo/peekaboo a bit, which made everyone laugh. DS1 and the other boy's older brother also joined in, which was really nice (and quite unusual for DS1). The mum and I got to chat too. We are trying a group version with other mums and toddlers next Wednesday. I definitely want to try the loo roll kazoo idea. My two love kazoos and also shouting through loo rolls, so it's perfect, although wondering if people will think we are just showing off about having loo roll! Thanks for the link and well done on revealing the bed.

Hello givemeacall! What a lovely relaxing bath but I agree that a shower is nice too. If nothing else it makes it easier to clean the bath!

Getting into a bed with clean sheets is so nice Bowerbird. Definitely worth the basin bath. Our boys always clamber in our bed first though and ruin it. DS2 in particular has some kind of clean sheet radar and always demands his afternoon nap should be in our bed too if I change it!

It's quite impressive that your family managed to get so many different meals ready to eat together at the same time, willow. We often have a bit of variation due to various allergies and veggie options and even that gets confusing. I really like the idea of tomato soup with cheese scones. I will put that my the list of things to eat when DS2 with milk allergy finally stops breastfeeding.

Glad you are getting better, Lane. Hope the exhaustion doesn't last long.

I did lots of laundry yesterday. So nice to be able to dry it in the garden. It always smells nicer and feels softer like that. I also tidied the boys garden toys in the garage a bit, so we can at least move around in there now. They were so excited to see the garden toys again after just balls to play with in the winter as the ground is too wet for anything else and so they left me free to get on for a while.

They were tired after that so DS2 had a nap and DS1 a rest with a couple of books on the sofa while I did home bleugh. That is getting easier each week now that I am sticking to it and also making sure the house is tidyish on the day I do it. More awkward now I have three rooms in use as everyone is home.

The boys also joined an online music session for preschoolers that was put on by the WeWork office that DH's employer uses as extra space for project teams. They usually have lots of activities for those using the offices at lunchtime, like concerts and yoga classes, so I suppose they thought occupying people's children would be handy now. The singer sings nursery rhymes and the children join in with shakers, saucepan drums or whatever they have. It was good fun and I managed to do a webchat with HMRC while they did it to get a child benefit entitlement letter that I need to send off to complete DS1's primary school application and which I procrastinated about on anti-procrastination day . I love it when companies have webchats that work on a mobile phone as an alternative to just phone contact as you don't have to worry about noisy toddlers or having to rush someone to the loo quickly because they were blowing too hard on their kazoo and suddenly have suspicious bulging eyes and a squatting pose!

Can't remember if it was someone here who suggested it (if so, thank you! If not, maybe useful for others here) but the NASA teaching resources are really nice and also easy to sort by age. We filtered on kindergarten which I think is like our reception year and found a few that were suitable for my two. We did an art session from there inspired by photographs of planet surface textures yesterday which is for all ages and there are lots of things I want to do with them when they are older too.

DS1 also did a Youtube ballet session while I folded the laundry. I had been thinking of taking him to a ballet class before as he absolutely loves dancing and is very communicative and engaged with anyone he is dancing with compared to normal but he doesn't easily do paying attention and following instructions so I was worried he would cause chaos if I did. Anyway he loved it and was very cooperative, so I will get him to do that a bit more and maybe get the DVD the video was promoting for him if he finds the two online sessions aren't enough. Then we can see about a class afterwards. I looked and she does have some exercise videos but not a specific stretching one, stressy; there was one on flexibility though. Also maybe not the lively style you were looking for, more simple, clear and direct. If you think it's worth a look, it was the Tips on Ballet Technique channel.

I also think you are doing the right thing zoo. He is not giving any practical or emotional help and seems unwilling to listen to advice or take support. There is only so much you can do and it doesn’t seem as if he is a good role model for any of the children.

Discovered my king size duvet won't fit in wash machine and can't get smell cat kibble furball out

cinerea have you tried making dairy free ones with violife cheese?they closest substitute to "normal" cheese?
Stressy thanks.x

Please note ladies,if you use lots tech during this crisis please think about a plan B

we just had 15 minutes of chaos with services down for TV and internet.chaos reigned.i am now formulating what will happen if this occurs again as there would've been murder or riots had it not come back!!!

Oh big cross-post Zoo. I started it and then the children got up and wanted feeding! What a hard decision for you. There are so many reasons not to have him stay with you. It doesn't sound like it would be good thing for anyone, even him if he feels he needs lots of space/rest as you have a busy family home. I can see why it's not easy to say no though. Do your children know that he has asked or have an opinion about it?

The boys like Violife best too, zoo. Good idea! I found it a bit oily on pizza/toast but it could be nice cooked inside scones and they will likely eat them if I don't!

I wonder if it was everyone starting work from home at 9am that caused the chaos.

I think as time goes on crashes will be inevitable due to surges not normally experience cinerea
The girls both shrugged and made sarcastic remarks about times hasn't spent with them/making effort.i know it hurts regardless.dd2 deffo don't want him here as she feels the general stress levels are higher when he's here as he switches between almost hyper joking and being silly/immature,and very quiet and brooding...he so busy his own racing thoughts he doesn't listen and probe talking over others(this wasn't a problem til after his mum died couple years ago then it appeared overnight)

Also mine like but herbs added which will add "something" parsley or oregano is nice.ive even made tomato puree scones with oil,not butter(thrifty Lesley recipe) and oregano and they said tasted like pizza without cheesebut yummy!😋

Investigated if my room is safe to enter yet,had forgotten open a window so bear choked on entrybreath held and window opened and door shut now to prevent daft kits leaping outhoping go in an hour and begin the mass deep clean in there

In meantime my techno dinosaur tendancy no help to poor D's try navigate roll schools online learning..
Lil zoo been ranting as now behind her friends due to the glitch if services
Dd2 upstairs at desk having massive panic attack..
Chester zoo has feeds running today,starring at 10
I've sent her to look at penguins for a bit❤️

Washing load one of dd2 out in mo,then is laundry laundry laundry interspersed with try get all Instagram recipes into books,general tidying and "the big clean if my room"