Late last year I invested in a GeekDesk.  The main reason I got it was to reduce the amount of time I spend sitting down during the day.  Writing code and working on music both involve a lot of time spent in a seated position, and although I have a great desk chair, I still wanted to make sure I was doing as much as I could for my circulation, alertness, etc.

I got the frame only, and then I went to Ikea and found an inexpensive, lightweight top for it.  After I assembled the frame and attached the top I got it situated and started to use it.  At some point I spilled some beverage (probably, um, idea juice) and realized that the Ikea top would be permanently marked by any spills (it’s just particleboard, after all).

I hit the fabric store and got a sheet of clear vinyl cut to the size of the desk.  Since I put the vinyl on the desktop I’ve slipped photos and fortune cookie fortunes and stickers and all kinds of other stuff underneath.  It’s pretty groovy, baby.

Standing up while working has turned out to be really pleasant.  I feel like I get more done, and I’m more focused when I’m standing.  And there’s a benefit I didn’t even think about: when I’m recording guitar or vocals, I can easily control things with the desk in a standing position.  No more hunching over with a guitar slung around my neck to change things in the session.

Of course I only had the desk for  a few months when I fell down the stairs and sprained my ankle.  Naturally.  But now that I’m back on my feet, it’s therapeutic to stand for some short periods.  As I continue to recover, I’m sure that I’ll be spending more time upright while working, recording and mixing.  Thanks, GeekDesk.