Pre-test Preparation

I have three big tests fast approaching, so I spent my Saturday at home preparing. Before I could actually start studying, I first had to prepare for studying. I slept in, obviously, so that my mind would be well rested for my academic pursuits. I decided to start my day off with some pilates to get my heart pumping, and send blood to my brain. After finishing a pilates video, I decided that maybe I should get some laundry done. I could study while the loads were in the machine. I gathered and sorted my laundry, but once my floor was clear of debris, it was really obvious that I needed to vacuum. Oh, but I couldn't vacuum until I cleared away the piles of paper on the floor near my desk. I filed away all the papers in neatly labeled binders and filed them away on my shelf. As I took a look at my shelf, it was amazing how dusty it had become since I had never dusted it before. I went on a search for pledge and paper towels to clean off the offending dust. By then my first load of laundry was done, and I had to put it away. Finally, my room was clean, and I had my second load of laundry in the wash - it was time to turn on my computer. The computer brought on a whole new set of necessary tasks - like playing my scrabulous games, online shopping, and blogging. Now, it's after 10 pm, and I've yet to open my notes.

What is it about studying that makes the most inane tasks appealing? Would I really rather dust my shelf than learn about urinary tract infections? Well, the answer is yes, yes I would. If I'm going to distract myself, why wouldn't I pick something more exciting? I could play my most intimidating guitar riffs and scare my neighbors, or play my new Zelda game. The thing is I know these are my favorite things to do, so I've banned them to focus on my studies. With my most delightful distractions out of the way, the only things left are cleaning and cooking. I often make my most elaborate meals during test time as well. In a normal week, I might get take out or make some sort of instant frozen meal. In preparation for this test week, I made a whole wheat pasta with fresh spinach and onions sautéed with chicken breast and toasted pine nuts. So if anybody is wondering where to find the homemaker in the modern, empowered, successful woman, just give her something to study, and you'll have a clean house and food on the stove in no time. Actually, I've heard of guys doing the same thing, so give a guy something to study if you want him to cook and clean too.

--By Farrah, who pulled her notes out of her organized binder on her dust-free shelf and put them on her desk. Even if she hasn't looked at them yet, hey, progress!
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