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What We Are UP To – Productivity Edition

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wall art do you have what it takes for productivity

One of the biggest challenges I faced when I initially started working from home was productivity. When you’re in the comfort of your own home, it’s easy to get distracted and before you know it, you’re looking at an article about a guy who edited Disney characters into his photos. Over time, I’ve learned that integrating some fun distractions into my workday allows me to enjoy my time and still be productive. This month we managed to do just that: get a few important things done while enjoying ourselves. 

Watching | Ant-Man & Ant-Man and the Wasp

> Sometimes the key to productivity is allowing yourself a little downtime. We found ourselves faced with that earlier this month and decided to rewatch these Marvel movies. And we’re glad we did. We had forgotten how good Paul Rudd and Evangeline Lilly are together. 

Reading | The Flip Side

> While I have my own political opinions, it’s important to me to understand what others might be thinking. The Flip Side is a FREE daily email that presents both the left and right viewpoints to the top news stories. What I like about this site is that it doesn’t tell you one side is right or wrong. It curates both views and presents them side by side for you to decide. They also explain their curation methodology so you can determine if it meets your standard. 

Remembering | Estate Planning

> We haven’t forgotten about this project. Keith recently wrote an article about our estate planning takeaways so far as we update our wills and health care directives. Let me add a 4th takeaway to his list: it takes time. When it comes to budgeting your resources, keep in mind that even updating an existing will does take time. 

Working On | Cleaning up digital photos

> One of the things I love about my iPhone is that I can take a picture whenever I want. The downside to this is that I quickly accumulate a lot of pictures! So, I came up with a plan to organize them. My productivity trick is to schedule an hour a day for a few days and before I knew it…photos organized, and project completed. 

Feeling | Ready for some cooler weather

> I’m probably not alone in thinking it would be nice for some cooler temperatures right now. While I love sunshine and warmer weather, there’s a point where I’m just, “…on to autumn, please”. I know this year will be tough, given that we’re still trying to practice social distancing but I’m looking forward to wearing sweaters and soup season.  

Planning | Flu Shots

> We always get a flu shot. I realize it doesn’t protect us 100% but in my book that’s better than 0%. And I find that if I do catch something, it doesn’t seem to stay with me very long. I’m planning to have a very productive fourth quarter and staying healthy is a necessary part of that plan. 

Loving | Jot

> When I work from home (which is all the time these days), I like to enjoy a small cold brew in the afternoons. Helps with my afternoon productivity! I’ve been trying all sorts of cold brew concentrates and recently found Jot Coffee. It comes with a tablespoon for you to measure the perfect amount. Then just add water. BTW – you can turn it into a pumpkin spice cold brew with just a little bit of Coffee Mate pumpkin spice creamer. 

Geeking | Peloton Update

> I mentioned last month that we got a Peloton and I thought that I would provide a quick update. We’re both really liking it. We were unsure about the whole notion of “biking in the house” thing but there are hundreds of classes to choose from. We can always find something to fit the mood we’re in. And the most important part? We are regularly getting exercise, which helps with our productivity!

What’s UP with you?

Image captured by Sharlyn Lauby while exploring the streets of Anaheim, CA

Now May Be the Best Time to Volunteer – Or Not

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Original art by Peter Tunney Today Is the Day as it might apply to being a volunteer

According to the Bureau of Labor Statistics, 62.6 million people volunteered in the United States at least once in 2015 which was the last time such statistics were published. Of those volunteers, most were between 35 – 54 years of age and they spent a median of 52 hours on volunteer activities.

We know that planning is important when it comes to unretirement. There seems to be a never-ending number of decisions to be made and, possibly, changed along the way. We’ve written extensively about the importance of getting these decisions right to keep your retirement years sustainable and enjoyable.

But an encore career is just a part of your retirement life. It’s essential to find other ways to fill your retirement days.

Volunteering may be a great way to match your interests and skills with great opportunities to help and give back. In fact, AARP is so supportive of volunteering, that they have created a portal specifically for volunteers. Their Volunteer Wizard can guide you to the perfect experience for your interest and skills. They can even narrow it down to within 10 miles of where you live.

If you are like me and a global pandemic cramps your travel, never fear. There are many volunteer opportunities to be had that only require a phone or computer. Online tutors are in huge demand right now. If you are more of an environmental activist, many organizations are looking for volunteers to support causes like save the bees and stop overfishing oceans. Citizen scientists can volunteer for eBird through the Cornell Lab of Ornithology to record local bird sightings.

Let’s not forget that this is an election year and parties, candidates and causes are all looking for volunteer help. Highly organized campaigns have lists of voters who actually want to receive text messages. Or you can work to help register voters before the general election. If you can safely get to and volunteer at your local voting site, many are desperate for help in the weeks ahead.

Simplification may be the key for many who have a very active retirement life. But don’t let that stop you from giving back. I’m talking about shopping and giving a portion of what you spend to charitable causes. Sites like AmazonSmile offer the same products you buy at the same prices, but they donate a percentage of the proceeds to the charity of your choice. It’s simple and automated – all you have to do is select a charity and start shopping!

Right now may be the best time to do some research to find that volunteer opportunity. Many of us are still cutting back on activities and travel due to COVID-19. Use your spare time to find something that matches your interests and skills. And if volunteering is still a few months or years away, no problem. You can do the groundwork now to find what’s best for you.

We know that, for many, workplace unrest, furloughs and layoffs have upended retirement planning. Volunteering may not be an option when your focus is on an interim job or your next opportunity. However, a volunteer role may provide experience, new skills, or connections that could lead to a new job. Something to keep in mind. For others, volunteering can be a rewarding way to support others and the causes that really matter.

What We Are UP To – The Music Edition

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music image showing notation

I read an article recently about “Using Music for Self-Care” that was very interesting. I had always heard about theories like the Mozart effect (which I don’t believe is true) but I can definitely see how listening to music can be helpful in stressful situations. While we’re not experiencing any out of the ordinary stress this month, we are listening to a lot of music and it’s been nice. Here’s what else we’ve been up to:

Watching | TwinsthenewTrend

> Tim and Fred Williams are twins who record their reactions to music that they’ve never heard before. I recently discovered them when their reaction to the Phil Collins classic song “In the Air Tonight” went viral. Totally loved it and have been checking out their older videos. I especially liked their reaction to “Dream On” by Aerosmith.  

Geeking | Spotify

> I think one of the reasons that I’ve been enjoying the TwinsthenewTrend videos is because they’ve been listening to a lot of the music that I listened to growing up. The blast from the past is fun. I’ve also found a couple of playlists on Spotify that are filling my need for the oldies: 70s Road Trip and Classic Road Trip Songs. If you have a Spotify account (FREE), check them out.

Loving | Peloton

> Yep, we broke down an bought a Peloton. COVID-19 put our Pilates plans on hold and we really wanted to exercise. So, we looked at all of the money that we would have spent on classes and it quickly justified the expense. One of the things that I’m enjoying about Peloton classes is the music. I’m finding some new artists to enjoy. If you’re considering a Peloton, let me share with you my referral code – 83QXDQ. If you use it, you’ll get $100 to spend toward accessories. I get a little something too. 

Remembering | Halloween

> It’s hard to believe that the holidays are right around the corner. I mentioned last month that we’re working on organizing our garage. Well, in the process we found our Halloween decorations. Frankly, I’m not sure we should put them up. Which is sad, since this is our first Halloween in the new neighborhood. But better to be safe. The good news is that we will be able to do our annual viewing of “The Rocky Horror Picture Show” and sing along to the music. 

Planning | Going to a show?

> Speaking of holidays, one of the things we love to do in the fall is go to the theater. And I’m not sure that’s going to happen this year. Last year, we were able to see both Randy Rainbow and Lindsey Stirling in concert. (Not together, separate shows.) Both were fabulous! Now we’re eyeing the fall new movie releases and realizing that we might be catching a lot of shows when they come out on video. 

Feeling | Ready for Autumn 

> My Pinterest page is filled with soup recipes! While I’m enjoying salad season, I can’t wait for soup season. We discovered some soup mixes from King Arthur Baking right at the end of last winter. They were easy to make and very tasty. I’m looking forward to making some soup as soon as the weather drops below the 90s. 

Working On | Estate Planning

> We’re taking our own advice and updating our wills and health directives. This process is a lot less stressful when you have the time to think about and discuss your final wishes. 

Reading | “Life” by Keith Richards

> I saw an article in Rolling Stone that ranked the best musician autobiographies of all time. One of my favorites is “Life” by Keith Richards. I’m not even a huge Rolling Stones fan and I loved this book. If you’re looking for a nice read to finish your summer, this might be it. 

What’s UP with you? Let us know what music you’re listening to these days. 

What We Are UP To: History Edition

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Caesar's Palace showing history through art

2020 is making history. We’re in a recession during a pandemic. We have an election coming up later this year. We’ve all sheltered-in-place at some point. Keith and I hope you and your loved ones are staying safe and well. We started July with the Independence Day holiday and history seems to be a pretty strong theme this month. 

Watching | Hamilton on Disney+

> We enjoyed Hamilton in a theater a long time ago and really wanted to see it with the original cast. Watching it was a nice start to the Independence Day holiday weekend. I realize that there have been some challenges to the accuracy of Alexander Hamilton’s life as represented but it’s a great show with terrific music. And it will get you interested in history. 

Reading | OMG WTF Does the Constitution Actually Say?

> I’m a political science major. I love news and politics. But I will admit, it’s been a long time since I’ve read the Constitution. So, I was very excited to read Ben Sheehan’s book “OMG WTF Does the Constitution Actually Say?” It not only has the actual content of the Constitution, but Sheehan does a great job of translating it into everyday conversation. It’s an easy read and a great history lesson at the same time. 

Remembering | National Treasure 1 & 2

> Our annual July 4 tradition is to eat brats and tater tots and watch the National Treasure movies. While the movies are pure entertainment, I love the history theme and story line. It’s also exciting to hear that there’s a National Treasure 3 in the works. 

Working On | Garage Insulation

> We’ve lived in Central Florida before but after years of living in South Florida, we’ve forgotten historical weather patterns. South Florida always had some nice ocean breezes, even when you lived inland. North Florida is ridiculously humid. So, we decided to add some insulation to our garage attic area. It’s made a huge difference!

Feeling | Caution Fatigue

> I read a TIME article recently titled “How to Combat COVID-19 ‘Caution Fatigue’”. It’s a very interesting read and might help to explain how exhausting it can be to deal with the face masks, disinfecting, distancing, etc. We’ve never been through anything like this in modern history. We’re all going to feel things that we’ve possibly never felt before. 

Planning | Erin Condren LifePlanner

> I have a lot of friends who joke about trashing their 2020 calendars given all we’ve dealt with already this year. But I still love my planner. The new 2021 Erin Condren planners are out, and I couldn’t resist pre-ordering mine. One of new designs is Wonder WomanTM one of history’s best superheroes. 

Loving | JLANI Jewels

> As a small business owner, I like supporting other small businesses. My hope is that by supporting them, they will make history. JLANI Jewels is a Black owned, female owned, small business, based in my home state of Florida that makes eco-friendly sustainable jewelry. I fell in love with the stackable rings and couldn’t resist. 

Geeking | Calamityware

> Over the years, we had accumulated quite a collection of coffee and tea mugs. Before our move to North Florida, we purged ourselves of most of them. I’ve been admiring the designs at Calamityware for quite some time and decided to splurge on new mugs. Calamityware is a traditional blue willow-pattern with fun features like pterodactyls, robots, zombies, monsters, etc. 

How’s your summer going? What’s UP with you?

Image captured by Sharlyn Lauby while exploring the streets of Las Vegas, NV

Examining the New Normal After COVID-19

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this is your moment sign in Atlanta implying the new normal

You have probably been reading and hearing the term “new normal” a lot lately. Wikipedia indicates that “new normal” became popular as a business term to describe the financial conditions following the 2007-2008 financial crisis. Today, the term is frequently used to describe the period following the COVID-19 pandemic – specifically, as we emerge from shelter-in-place restrictions. It references the social and economic changes that will impact most of us moving forward.

But what can we expect from this “new normal”?

Clean is the new green – we’ve learned since childhood that cleanliness prevents illness and that message was abundantly clear as COVID-19 spread across the globe. Experts agree that simple precautions such as sneezing and coughing into your elbow, frequent hand washing, and cleaning frequently used surfaces will continue as areas of focus. Consumers may even be even more critical of business cleanliness when they decide which restaurant or hotel to use. Some like immunologist and director of the National Institute of Allergy and Infectious Diseases Dr. Anthony Fauci think this may even be the end of the handshake.

Age in place, but with a little more space – it’s possible that retirees who had been considering downsizing to age in place may be rethinking that strategy in the new normal. Smaller condominiums or apartments which offered a little cost savings may be viewed as undesirable due to density of population in those structures. That also extends to the location, as less populated rural settings are being viewed as more attractive over urban or even suburban settings.

“Economic Darwinism” for some but a rebirth for others – Economic Darwinism is the concept that there will be an economic elimination of antiquated industries. For example, while many have been holding onto their paper magazine or newspaper subscription, that option may be a little closer to extinction. Though digital media also has expense limitations, it is far more cost effective in the new normal. Another casualty may be the buffet restaurant as diners steer clear of exposure to multiple hands. And though the neighborhood multiplex theater may be closed, many areas are seeing new interest in drive-in movies which provide built-in social distancing.

Staying home or the new travel – as sheltering restrictions are lifted, we have the opportunity to venture out. But will we? And, if we do, what will that look like? Cruise lines are still grounded, and most expect to stay that way until late July or August. Rental shares like Airbnb are being overlooked in favor of hotels with more rigorous cleaning protocols. Given all that, many are simply choosing to stay home. In fact, home goods stores are reporting significant growth as homeowners try to fix their place up.

One thing we know for sure right now is that things are changing. And they may change again with the possibility of a second wave of COVID-19 cases in the fall and winter. Fortunately, medical professional are working on treatments and vaccines, but that could take months or even years.

If you are a planner like us, you probably already know that we’re not going back to the way things were. And you might feel a little frustrated by the speed of change as we begin our entrance into the post COVID-19 era. But we can focus on our lessons learned to protect ourselves and our loved ones. It’s a bold New Normal, but we’re up to the task!

What We Are UP To – The New Normal Edition

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brain cramp zombie poster on bus stop implying the new normal

This month we’re watching states relax shelter-in-place restrictions. I will admit that while it’s nice to see places reopening, I’m not sure we’re completely ready to resume all of the activities that we were planning before COVID-19. So, this month, we’re getting ready for a new normal – at least one that we believe will last for the next few months. 

Watching | The Mandalorian

> I’ve never been a huge Star Wars fan, but I have seen the movies. After all the Baby Yoda news, we broke down, ordered Disney+, and watched The Mandalorian. The Child (aka Baby Yoda) is adorable! I’m a fan. This will definitely be a part of our “new normal” viewing schedule. 

Reading | “Love Your Age”

> This was the perfect time for me to pick up this book. Author Barbara Hannah Grufferman gives readers an actionable, practical list of things we can do to feel better about ourselves and live a healthier life. I particularly liked the “master cheat sheet” at the end of the book with tips for things we can do daily, weekly, monthly, and annually. It’s given me some ideas about activities that I should incorporate into my new normal. 

Remembering | Road trips

> I ran across an article in Lifehacker about “Why You Still Need to Drive Your Car a Little If You’re Quarantined” and it reminded us that we need to figure out how to do this. A dead battery is not any fun. So, Keith and I took a road trip to a nearby small-town with a roadside restaurant famous for their barbecue. We ordered online, took a drive, and the restaurant brought it out to the car. The Q was delicious, and the road trip was just what we (and the car) needed. 

Working On | Sourdough starter

> Yep, we jumped on the “make sourdough starter during quarantine” craze. I’m not sure how this kitchen science experiment will turn out, but it has been fun. We’ve researched all sorts of recipes to understand the science of sourdough. And we had to find lots of uses for sourdough starter discard. The best so far? Sourdough peanut butter cookies.

Feeling | Comfortable with face coverings

> I must admit the first couple of times that I went outside with a face covering, it was odd. The face covering doesn’t hurt, and it doesn’t seem to fog up my eyeglasses too much. It just takes some getting used to. Personally, I think I will be wearing face coverings for a while, so I’m thinking about having a small (very small!) collection. That will allow me to always have one available. 

Planning | Meatless meals?

> Is anyone else out there wondering about meat shortages? I’ve been in a few grocery stores over the past month that are limiting meat purchases. The news is talking about supply chain issues. Not sure where all of this is going but Keith and I are thinking about adding a meatless meal to our new normal. We both love lentils, and this might be a good time to test out some recipes. (If you have a good meatless dish, drop a link in the comments.)

Loving | Small tea kettles

> You know, I’m a tea person. Well, I broke my favorite tea infuser and decided to try something new. Instead of a tea infuser, I’m using a small glass kettle (with a strainer). It works great, easier to clean, and significantly cheaper. Sometimes being forced to try new options works out well. 

Geeking | Logic Puzzles

> I’ve mentioned before my love of puzzles. One type that I remember loving (and aggravating the heck out of me) are logic grid puzzles. It’s the type of puzzle where you are given a series of categories and an equal number of options within each category. Each option is used once and only once. The goal is to solve the puzzle using the mathematical field of deduction. 

What’s UP with you? Is there anything that you’ve been doing while sheltering that will become part of your new normal?

Image captured by Sharlyn Lauby while exploring the streets of Chicago, IL

The Pros and Cons of Being a One Car Household

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one car or many cars on the road in an urban setting

One of the things to consider in retirement is transportation as in, “How much do you want to drive?” The answer might prompt you to take some action like moving from the suburbs to a more walkable community. Or maybe downsize vehicles to something smaller and/or more fuel efficient. Or you might do what we did and simply become a one-car household. 

I must admit that Keith and I didn’t reach this decision quickly. We were very concerned because we had always been a two-car household. But once we were both working from home, we realized that we were really only using one car. In fact, we had to jump the battery our second car twice because we simply weren’t using it. That’s when we realized that we needed to make a decision about cars.

We’ve been a one-car household for about eight years now. Honestly, we wouldn’t have it any other way. Here are a few of the advantages and disadvantages we’ve encountered.

Pros –

Cost. This is an obvious one. Depending on how you buy cars, having one car payment is nice. Having zero car payments is even nicer once you pay it off. There’s also not having auto insurance for two cars, maintenance for two cars, and putting gas into two cars. 

Space. What I mean here is space in the garage, carport, or parking spaces outside your residence. It’s very nice having the extra space. And depending on your taste in automobiles, trying to get two vehicles side-by-side in a garage can be challenging. 

Upgrade. Downgrading to one car could mean an upgrade in the type of car you own. Or the same type of car, but you splurge on a few features that you might not normally get. Another option is to save those dollars for something else. 

Cons –

Coordination. One vehicle does mean having to occasionally coordinate schedules when it comes to doctor’s appointments, meetings, etc. It’s not a huge deal for us because we simply make notes on our Outlook calendars so the other person knows they can’t have the car. The rest of the time, it’s first come first serve.

Rentals. That being said about coordination, we’ve run into a couple situations where we both absolutely needed wheels. And we rented a car. The cost of a rental is significantly less than buying and maintaining a second car. I’d say we rent a car 1-2 times a year (max).  

Personalization. Keith and I are fortunate that we’re roughly the same height, so our car seat and mirror settings are the same. But I could see where this might be an issue for others. Every time you get in the car, having to adjust seats and mirrors can be a PITA.

As we age, transportation is something we need to think about. It can be helpful to have these conversations early so no one is caught off guard. If you’ve been used to driving your own car and having that type of freedom, being able to control your future transportation needs will be important.

Image captured by Sharlyn Lauby while exploring the streets of New Delhi, India