When I posted my cleaning challenge, it was very helpful—not just because it was a daily, detailed list, but also because it gave me public accountability to actually follow through. Since that worked so well, I’m trying it again, only this time it’s a much less ambitious list.

Here are my 3 goals for Friday:

1. Box Removal

Between Hanukkah and my birthday, we have so many boxes hanging around (they’re piled up into a huge mountain in a corner of the den. So bad, I know!). I need to remove all labels/tape, cut them flat, stack, and take them to the recycling center.

2. Write & Send Thank You Cards

Before too much time passes after Hanukkah, I want to make sure these go into the mail. I know not everyone has the time or interest to send paper cards, but I think a present deserves a tangible thanks. Also, it’s good practice for littles ones and seems to keep entitlement complexes at bay.

3. Make a Chinese Feast for Shabbos

I love to make a special dinner for the family on Friday nights. Between hectic schedules, medical problems, and a severe lack of energy, it doesn’t always happen, but when I can, it makes for a wonderful experience. Some dinners, I stick to traditional Jewish fare, other times I branch out. Tonight, I’m experimenting with a new recipe. I got a head start this morning and chopped the veggies.

Doesn’t it look colorful? It should make for a nice combination of carrots, celery, bok choy, peppers, sprouts, etc. Along with the veggies, I have some nice sirloin marinating in the fridge and will stir fry everything.

My plan is to drop off the boxes, stop by the post office, do some other random errands and then come home. Oh, and work in between and cook. Good thing I stopped my list at only 3 goals…