35yoSeeking... adult school supplies
Word Count: 496
As of last month, I’m back working AT work on staff at a private elementary school. We’re currently rocking a hybrid model with most students and teachers on campus for at least half the day. With all the new safety measures, it’s even more of an “all hands on deck” environment than usual for the staff. Now that we’re a few weeks in, I’ve compiled a list of my adult school supplies for the new year!
A fanny pack
Every staffer on campus helps with daily student drop-offs and pick-ups, which require a fair number of supplies: campus keys, cell phone, contactless thermometer, walkie-talkie, and—of course—hand sanitizer. Even outfits with pockets just weren’t cutting it.A fitness tracker
Going back to work AT work puts me back at a decent daily step count—and I want proof! (But seriously, my daily neighborhood walks were barely cutting it when I was hardly leaving my condo otherwise.) I don’t typically carry my phone around my condo with me, so I wanted a wristband version that could double as a watch. For me, the basic Fitbit Inspire (with a pretty leather strap) fits the bill perfectly, but there are plenty of options on the market at every price point.A mask chain
This is basically an eyeglass chain with lobster clasps at both ends. I found some on Etsy but ultimately decided to make my own using jewelry chain, jump rings, lobster clasps, and chain nose pliers from the local hobby shop. Just make sure your lobster clasps are large enough for the ear loops of your favorite mask.Snacks
I admit that I am really missing the daily hot lunch salad bar option and bottomless coffee from days of yore, but it’s an excellent opportunity to “up” my snack game! Every morning, I leave the house with a big Tervis of water, a little Tervis of coffee, and a fully packed lunch. And I am slowly but surely filling my snack drawer with 100-calorie packs of popcorn and Cheez-Its, instant oatmeal, and Starburst (I might be a little obsessed).Essential oil diffuser
Now I want to be very clear about my relationship with essential oils. I enjoy them very much as an alternative to candles at home and work. And while I might use the occasional peppermint roller WITH my usual pain medication for a headache—I do NOT treat them as an alternative to medicine or doctors. And I NEVER support multi-level marketing (MLM) companies, also known as pyramid selling or network marketing. OK, rant over. All that being said, setting up my essential oil diffuser with a great-smelling blend has become a welcome part of my morning routine.
Next up on my list is a clip-on mini ring light to combat the unflattering overhead lighting during Zoom meetings. I’m missing my dining room’s spectacular natural light during my spring and summer of working at home. Welcome back to school!
