tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-39277723796485374452024-02-07T10:25:36.052-08:00everything SORTed{simple organization. real transformation.}Unknownnoreply@blogger.comBlogger38125tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3927772379648537445.post-71135883620107816732014-03-23T11:45:00.004-07:002014-03-23T11:55:42.066-07:00SORT hiatusHi friends,<br />
<br />
It's been a while since I have done any blogging or organizing of any kind, so I decided it was time to provide an explanation for those who may be wondering where I went. To be completely honest, my mind and energy have been directed elsewhere in recent months. The months since my last post in November have been some of the hardest I've ever experienced in my personal life. Not only did the course of my life change pretty dramatically, but I have moved homes twice since December. . . a pretty big deal for this type-A, organized, nester who likes to have her ducks in a row! Most of my organizing energy has been directed at getting my own life SORTed out, as well as giving my all to my precious students in my full-time teaching job. <br />
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I LOVE, LOVE, LOVE to help others get organized, but it is work that takes an immense amount of physical and emotional energy. I think that contacting a professional organizer and inviting another person into your space to help you get organized is an extremely brave and vulnerable thing to do. I feel honored to be on the receiving end of such a request. As an organizer, I want to make sure I am able to honor the openness of my clients by providing the very best support I can. <br />
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For that reason, I am taking the next few months to "get my head back in the game", so to speak. I am attending local chapter meetings of the National Association of Professional Organizers and participating in online trainings for organizers. I am reading books and blogs about how to best help my clients with their organizing needs. Most of all, I am taking care of myself by being willing to say "No" to some things now so that my later "Yes" will be more effective. I am doing the things that make me feel whole - like reading, yoga, cooking, and playing with my sweet pup. I am recognizing that I have to find a sense of serenity within myself before I can engage in creating that sense for someone else.<br />
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I hope this message finds you well, and I encourage you to take care of yourself today too. As for SORT, I am still working with a handful of ongoing clients and I look forward to meeting many new clients when I start organizing again in late May or early June. Take care!<br />
<br />
KatieUnknownnoreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3927772379648537445.post-67685904904014957492013-11-05T13:12:00.001-08:002013-11-05T13:21:51.388-08:00confessions of an overwhelmed organizerI will be the first to admit that I do not have it all together. Despite the fact that I am extremely organized, I still drop a ball or two every now and again. Ok. . .I drop balls more than I care to admit. This blog is a perfect example.<br />
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When I was launching my business last summer, I was determined to post multiple times a week with clever, insightful organizing tips and tricks that would inspire my readers. On my most motivated days, I even considered buying a fancy camera and taking a photography class. I attended a conference for bloggers and made lists of potential blog posts. I scoured the web for inspiring organizing blogs from which to glean wisdom and inspiration. And then reality set in.<br />
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In reality, I am an organizer. . .not a blogger. I don't necessarily enjoy the creative process of writing. I would much rather be reorganizing food items in your pantry than words on a page. I will do LOTS of other things to avoid the task of sitting down and recording my thoughts. It's somewhat comical to see the countless entries of the word "blog" in my dayplanner to-do column. Each time, the word is neatly crossed through with pen (my indication that the item did not get accomplished and should be moved to another day). It has seriously been an ongoing to-do item since June. At one point, I sat down and scheduled several months worth of "Quote of the Week" posts. This was a strategy to encourage myself to blog <em>between</em> the weekly automated posts so that my blog would not become a string of "Quotes of the Week" with no other content. But guess what? That is exactly what happened. I'll admit I am tempted to delete all of those postings in an effort to "clean up" my failure, but I will not. Hopefully you will find some humor in my shortcoming.<br />
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Also, another reality check came in the form of an unexpected career development. While I dreamed for months of making SORT my full-time career, I knew when I launched that I was not ready to take the plunge into full-time self-employment. In August, I started a new teaching position at an elementary school, working with struggling learners and students with dyslexia. My intention was to stay in this role for one year while I got my feet wet in the organizing business. But guess what? I LOVE my job. I cannot imagine leaving any time soon. My daily 9 to 5 is challenging and stimulating and lots of fun. I use my organizing skills every day to structure 30-minute lessons for the numerous groups of students who cycle through my classroom. It's taken a great deal of energy and attention to learn the ropes in my new role, but I am finally at a place where things are running smoothly and I don't need to work long hours to keep it going. I am ready to turn my focus back to SORT, but with a different expectation for where my business is going.<br />
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Another reality check came the week before I started my new teaching job. The love of my life asked me to marry him, right as the summer was winding down and school was starting again. Of course, I said yes! And with that "yes" came a whole lot of planning and organizing. A wedding is a huge organizational feat in itself, especially when you are working with a small budget and two very different personalities. Then there's the planning and organizing that comes with combining two households and making decisions about our shared future as a family. When Chris and I marry, I will become step-mom to my favorite eight-year-old in the world, and while all of these life changes are welcomed and exciting, they've all coaxed my attention away from SORT and onto other parts of my life.<br />
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So here's my confession: I can only juggle so many balls at a time, and this blog has not been one of them. While my business with clients has remained steady, I have totally dropped the ball on blogging, posting to Facebook, networking, marketing, etc. It feels like I am just reaching a level of calm in my personal life where SORT can move back to the front burner, but even still. . .no one can do it all. So my reality probably looks a lot like yours. I dream big and love life. I feel incredibly blessed by my jobs (both teaching and organizing), my family, my future husband, my health, etc. But at the end of the day, I still have dog hair on my floor, mounds of clean laundry to fold, and an empty fridge. Oh, and I haven't been to the gym in a month. And it's probably time to start thinking about Christmas shopping. And I can't remember the last time I actually completed a book. . .<br />
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So while I HOPE to blog more consistently, I know that it will continue to be a struggle for me. It's just not a priority that often rises to the top. I am setting a goal for myself to think small and post small. Hopefully you will soon see posts about how I am organizing everyday, and from that you can find some inspiration for your own life. Thanks for bearing with me as I SORT it all out.Unknownnoreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3927772379648537445.post-43207658218478500392013-09-23T20:47:00.000-07:002013-09-23T20:47:00.231-07:00quote of the week ~ September 23, 2013<h3 align="center">
When you purge unnecessary possessions and open up your space, </h3>
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you feel more energized, focused, and motivated.</h3>
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~ Peter Walsh</div>
Unknownnoreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3927772379648537445.post-3924717631716279352013-09-16T08:00:00.000-07:002013-09-16T08:00:02.454-07:00quote of the week ~ September 16, 2013<h3 align="center">
With all the things you have in your life, </h3>
<h3 align="center">
are you any more happy than your dog?</h3>
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~ Ramesh Balsekar</div>
Unknownnoreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3927772379648537445.post-45071443213266147732013-09-09T08:00:00.000-07:002013-09-09T08:00:02.391-07:00quote of the week ~ September 9, 2013<h3 style="text-align: center;">
Science is organized knowledge. </h3>
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Wisdom is organized life.</h3>
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~ Emmanuel Kant ~</div>
Unknownnoreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3927772379648537445.post-49765641090754720632013-09-02T08:00:00.000-07:002013-09-02T08:00:00.038-07:00quote of the week ~ September 2, 2013<h3 align="center">
Whatever you can do, or dream you can, begin it! </h3>
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Boldness has genius, magic, and power in it.</h3>
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Goethe</div>
Unknownnoreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3927772379648537445.post-58701138147353987192013-08-26T08:00:00.000-07:002013-08-26T08:00:02.289-07:00quote of the week ~ August 26, 2013<span style="font-size: x-large;"></span><br />
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<div style="text-align: center;">
<span style="font-size: x-large;">Have nothing in your house </span><span style="font-size: x-large;"></span><br />
<span style="font-size: x-large;"></span></div>
<span style="font-size: x-large;"></span></blockquote>
<span style="font-size: x-large;"><blockquote class="tr_bq" style="text-align: center;">
<div style="text-align: center;">
that you do not know to be useful, </div>
</blockquote>
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or believe to be beautiful.</div>
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<span style="font-size: small;">~ William Morris ~</span></div>
</blockquote>
</span><br />Unknownnoreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3927772379648537445.post-27225152104829667962013-08-19T08:00:00.000-07:002013-08-19T08:00:00.990-07:00quote of the week ~ August 19, 2013<h3>
</h3>
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</h3>
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Organizing is what you do before you do something, </h3>
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so that when you do it, it is not all mixed up.</h3>
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<span style="color: #888888; font-family: "Georgia","serif"; mso-bidi-font-family: "Times New Roman"; mso-fareast-font-family: "Times New Roman";"> </span></h3>
<span style="color: #888888; font-family: "Georgia","serif"; mso-bidi-font-family: "Times New Roman"; mso-fareast-font-family: "Times New Roman";">
</span>
<span style="color: #888888; font-family: "Georgia","serif"; mso-bidi-font-family: "Times New Roman"; mso-fareast-font-family: "Times New Roman";"></span><br />
<blockquote class="tr_bq" style="background: white; line-height: 20pt; margin: 0in 0in 10pt; text-align: center;">
<div style="text-align: center;">
<span style="color: #888888; font-family: "Georgia","serif"; mso-bidi-font-family: "Times New Roman"; mso-fareast-font-family: "Times New Roman";"><span style="font-size: x-small;"><span style="font-family: inherit; font-size: small;">~ A.A. Milne, author of <em>Winnie the Pooh</em>
~</span> </span></span></div>
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Unknownnoreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3927772379648537445.post-6743113076327471982013-08-12T08:00:00.000-07:002013-08-12T08:00:06.427-07:00quote of the week - August 12, 2013<h3 align="center">
May your walls know joy; </h3>
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may every room hold laughter </h3>
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and every window open to great possibility.</h3>
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~ Maryann Radmacher-Hershey ~</div>
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Unknownnoreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3927772379648537445.post-70133308244211824472013-08-05T08:00:00.000-07:002013-08-05T08:00:08.352-07:00quote of the week ~ August 5, 2013<h3>
</h3>
<h3 class="MsoNormal" style="line-height: normal; margin: 0in 0in 0pt; text-align: center;">
The world is full of individuals who could have made a difference </h3>
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</h3>
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but
were never ambitious or prepared enough </h3>
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</h3>
<h3 class="MsoNormal" style="line-height: normal; margin: 0in 0in 0pt; text-align: center;">
to show the world what they’re capable
of.</h3>
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</h3>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="line-height: normal; margin: 0in 0in 0pt; text-align: center;">
<span style="font-family: inherit;">~ Dan Schawbel ~</span></div>
Unknownnoreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3927772379648537445.post-81986739387036933762013-07-30T21:36:00.000-07:002013-07-30T21:36:00.345-07:00a secret about your thingsI loved this passage from the book <em>Clutter Busting</em> by Brooks Palmer, so I thought I would share. He titled this section "The Secret".<br />
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<span style="color: #999999;"><em>Things will not make me happy. </em>Repeat this phrase many times.</span></blockquote>
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<span style="color: #999999;">We try to give our lives significance by filling them up with things. But it just doesn't work. You never feel there is enough. By discarding things that are important to other people but not to you, you start to live more spontaneously, and your natural joy comes through. Now is the time to be self-reliant. Now is the time to let go.</span></blockquote>
<blockquote class="tr_bq">
<span style="color: #999999;">Hanging on to things is a way to avoid change. Change is inherent in every cell of your body. It occurs every second of your life. Nothing stands still. You can pretend change is not happening by distracting yourself with things that don't matter. But that doesn't suit you. You've been anesthetizing yourself with things to create a false sense of stability; meanwhile, change is going on inside and around you all the time. </span></blockquote>
<blockquote class="tr_bq">
<span style="color: #999999;">When you begin to let go of the old useless artifacts of your past, you accept change, and you discover a profound peace of mind because you are going with the flow of life. There's momentum and power in that. That feeling of personal mightiness replaces the need to acquire things. Many of us own things to suppress feelings that we find difficult to face. But you cannot permanently suppress them. Now is the time to let those things go. The world misses you while you're in hiding. Come out. It is safe.</span> </blockquote>
Do these words resonate with you? I have been working on looking critically at my belongings and hanging on to only those things I find beautiful or useful (see my posts on my recent <a href="http://everythingsorted.blogspot.com/2013/06/spotting-clutter-and-30-day-purge.html">Purge Project</a>). I had no idea the extent to which my "old useless artifacts" were holding me to my past. The wedding dress I wore nearly a decade ago has been following me around for years, reminding me of a marriage that failed. Many of the decorative items in my home came from a different decorating taste and period in my life, and I am loving the empty space I've created by letting some of them go. It's amazing how a white wall is so much more inspiring than a painting I didn't love, and a clear tabletop is so much more attractive than one covered with knick-knacks I would never choose. We may not acknowledge it often, but the stuff we surround ourselves with has a profound impact on the feelings we experience in that space, and clearing the clutter provides wide open spaces for new possibilities.<br />
<blockquote class="tr_bq">
</blockquote>
Unknownnoreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3927772379648537445.post-51910434379861353272013-07-29T08:00:00.000-07:002013-07-29T08:00:01.430-07:00quote of the week - July 29, 2013<h3 align="center">
Staying organized is like gardening. </h3>
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</h3>
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You are constantly weeding, it's part of your routine.</h3>
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~ Peri Wolfman ~</div>
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Unknownnoreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3927772379648537445.post-22350630998384153842013-07-25T09:27:00.000-07:002013-07-26T03:28:03.601-07:00SORTed lives ~ woman's closet Disclaimer :: these aren't the greatest of pictures, and thye certainly don't do justice to this closet makeover. I was just so excited about getting everything sorted that I guess I wasn't focused on capturing our transformation on film!<br />
<br />
Here's the closet BEFORE. The client had already done quite a bit of work on her own. She went through all of her clothing and purged about 4 or 5 bags of items to be given away or donated. Much of her "keeper" items were stored in a closet in a different room. The client complained that the closet was too jam-packed when all of her clothing was in there. She had some products in place to help maximize space, but they weren't really working for her. In the picture on the left, you can see a double closet rod was added below the shorter hanging items, but it was wobbly and not very functional. There was an obvious need for some kind of shoe storage as well. One huge structural plus to this closet is the built-in shelves, which were being used to store cleaning and toiletry supplies (the closet is off the master bath), but they were clearly under-utilized.<br />
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhitvKc8NZHfFidmdXfM-PqWdyB6EXhUqW7I7jhIoNj_9doOxJ9Mqxo3pVX_XSmsU57yOxyterape94vQbhhhUmzsyw1HzEgBoUSnIKovfY-BNsQ5ON4v97ns6k4WB_cHxFU4qHTjZx9sfl/s1600/Before+Collage.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhitvKc8NZHfFidmdXfM-PqWdyB6EXhUqW7I7jhIoNj_9doOxJ9Mqxo3pVX_XSmsU57yOxyterape94vQbhhhUmzsyw1HzEgBoUSnIKovfY-BNsQ5ON4v97ns6k4WB_cHxFU4qHTjZx9sfl/s320/Before+Collage.jpg" width="320" /></a></div>
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What made all the difference in this project was adding some space-maximizing products. Here are the products we used, all purchased at<a href="http://www.bedbathandbeyond.com/default.asp"> Bed, Bath, and Beyond</a> or <a href="http://www.containerstore.com/welcome.htm">The Container Store</a>.</div>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgUg6m85_685qTGurIR24DvvwzWfDnGNcVVwKy7PZirhbkUDvdVEOqGiyHdmBoMl-7mIzzx1oW31_sD4jdTtMaEyFOgXN9QUW5quA5_xaIgQYIQeUjguv25ijNBeOGYLkGM6FftF83fvsAL/s1600/products+collage.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="400" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgUg6m85_685qTGurIR24DvvwzWfDnGNcVVwKy7PZirhbkUDvdVEOqGiyHdmBoMl-7mIzzx1oW31_sD4jdTtMaEyFOgXN9QUW5quA5_xaIgQYIQeUjguv25ijNBeOGYLkGM6FftF83fvsAL/s400/products+collage.jpg" width="280" /></a></div>
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Our main goal in this closet was to increase the hanging "real estate" so that clothing would not be wedged in too tightly. We used the products pictured above to accomplish this goal. Previously, the client had all of her t-shirts on hangers. Instead, we used <a href="http://www.containerstore.com/shop?productId=10010493&N=&Ntt=canvas">labeled canvas bins </a>(1) to sort her t-shirts into categories and placed them on built-in the open shelving (see AFTER picture below). We used more open canvas bins in various sizes to containerize bulk cleaning supplies, handbags, leggings, scarves, camisoles, and even boots! (For the record, I love open bins</div>
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. . . <a href="http://everythingsorted.blogspot.com/2013/02/simple-tool-open-bins.html">here's</a> why.)</div>
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Bulky denim jeans were also taking up a lot of the hanging room, so we folded them down and placed them in short stacks below this <a href="http://www.containerstore.com/shop?productId=10016791&N=&Ntt=expanding+shelf">expanding closet shelf</a> (2). On top of the expanding shelf we placed more canvas bins, making better use of the closet's vertical space.</div>
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To increase hanging space even further, we added this <a href="http://www.containerstore.com/shop?productId=10000195&N=&Ntt=double+hang">double hang closet rod</a> (3) and utilized a variety of <a href="http://www.bedbathandbeyond.com/product.asp?SKU=127266">hanger types</a> (4-6) to increase vertical hanging space versus creating more side-to-side bulk.</div>
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Instead of taking up shelf space for shoes, we added this <a href="http://www.bedbathandbeyond.com/product.asp?SKU=14891005">shoe rack</a> (10) on the ground, then used <a href="http://www.bedbathandbeyond.com/product.asp?SKU=18025728&RN=1009&KSKU=3184177">shelf dividers</a> (9) to organize sweatshirts on the shelf above the client's athletic wear. </div>
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It's not visible in the AFTER pictures, but this <a href="http://www.containerstore.com/shop?productId=10027609&N=&Ntt=slim+cart">awesome little cart</a> (7) fit perfectly into the awkward space betwen the open shelving and the wall (the cart is only 6 3/4" wide!). It holds the client's bulk toiletry items, as well as bath and body products she saves to give away as gifts. </div>
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The cleaning supplies remain on the open shelving towards the top, and we added this<a href="http://www.containerstore.com/shop?productId=10000727&N=&Ntt=13%22+lazy+susan"> turn-table</a> (8) to make items in the back more accessible.</div>
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Here's a glimpse at the results!</div>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjyMIhGS1eFw4-R-2JeceSU-mo8NwF3XM4cUAPCCsIPs07YIzfwoR0QImaK6LoNYdoRew_IrTYzHHsOwjbaONvzW5nGsr3BF78UIW-Z5aokUZA_K2mhZEsP0gw3F73FsGyK6rOKpq0nbIzj/s1600/After+Collage.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjyMIhGS1eFw4-R-2JeceSU-mo8NwF3XM4cUAPCCsIPs07YIzfwoR0QImaK6LoNYdoRew_IrTYzHHsOwjbaONvzW5nGsr3BF78UIW-Z5aokUZA_K2mhZEsP0gw3F73FsGyK6rOKpq0nbIzj/s320/After+Collage.jpg" width="320" /></a></div>
<br />Unknownnoreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3927772379648537445.post-3884674841997526732013-07-22T08:00:00.000-07:002013-07-22T08:00:04.681-07:00quote of the week ~ July 22, 2013<h3 style="text-align: center;">
Start by doing what's necessary; </h3>
<div style="text-align: center;">
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<h3 style="text-align: center;">
then do what's possible; </h3>
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and suddenly you are doing the impossible.</h3>
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~ St. Francis of Assisi ~</div>
Unknownnoreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3927772379648537445.post-26761034945199506512013-07-17T07:00:00.000-07:002013-07-17T07:00:01.279-07:0030 day Purge Project wrap up<span style="font-family: inherit;">As of today, my <a href="http://everythingsorted.blogspot.com/2013/06/spotting-clutter-and-30-day-purge.html">30 day Purge Project</a> is officially
over.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>I started out posting daily about
what I was purging and why, but after about 20 posts I decided I didn’t like
the way the posts were cluttering up my blog, so I removed them and decided to
do one final post when the whole thing was over.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>Here’s what I purged in the process:</span><br />
<span style="font-family: inherit;"></span><br />
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgZ1QAdaezLixIJKa1pbFtA54n_5x5i5mkAE9Kz-ReISAg8AkmxoBpNsJliNN-0bl8tpDjm6K3FKzXNp-C36RN3p9Ho6vlWF9SEaRwaZnxcwkeZw-OthQoWLKlCu8MIRf-2yrgR8FCASYpI/s1600/PicMonkey+Collage.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgZ1QAdaezLixIJKa1pbFtA54n_5x5i5mkAE9Kz-ReISAg8AkmxoBpNsJliNN-0bl8tpDjm6K3FKzXNp-C36RN3p9Ho6vlWF9SEaRwaZnxcwkeZw-OthQoWLKlCu8MIRf-2yrgR8FCASYpI/s320/PicMonkey+Collage.jpg" width="320" /></a></div>
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<ol>
<li>A Bert's Bees gift set (trash)</li>
<li>Wall art (Craigslist)</li>
<li>A mismatched lamp shade (returned to store)</li>
<li>A necklace (donated to Dress for Success)</li>
<li>Clothing (donated to Goodwill)</li>
<li>2 pairs of shoes (Goodwill)</li>
<li>Jewelry (Goodwill)</li>
<li>Jewelry box (Goodwill)</li>
<li>Stella & Dot bracelet (Dress for Success)</li>
<li>A never-been-worn bra (Dress for Success)</li>
<li>Travel bags (Goodwill)</li>
<li>Sunglasses (Goodwill)</li>
<li>Box of hair dye (trash)</li>
<li>Umbra plastic bag holder (gave to my mom)</li>
<li>Water bottles (Goodwill)</li>
<li>Never-used spices and ingredients (trash)</li>
<li>Old cleaning products from previous condo owners (trash)</li>
<li>Coozies (Goodwill)</li>
<li>Old cell phones (HopeLine via Verizon Wireless)</li>
<li>Junk from my "junk bowl" (trash)</li>
<li>Huge painting from Z Gallerie (gave to my boyfriend)</li>
<li>Candles (Goodwill)</li>
<li>Old magazines (recycled)</li>
<li>Decorative items that aren't my style (Goodwill)</li>
<li>CDs and DVDs (Goodwill)</li>
<li>Ornament and broken tape measure from my craft cabinet (trash)</li>
<li>Dog training books, etc. (Goodwill)</li>
<li>Formal dresses (donated Austin Fairy Godmother Boutique)</li>
<li>Wedding dress (gave to family member)</li>
<li>Nike + Running chip (Goodwill)</li>
</ol>
It feels great to have cleared out some space, and after ridding myself of some outdated decor I feel newly inspired to do some redecorating!<br />
<ol>
</ol>
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</div>
Unknownnoreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3927772379648537445.post-23834278438130589242013-07-15T08:00:00.000-07:002013-07-15T08:00:01.707-07:00quote of the week ~ July 15, 2013<h3 align="center">
A man can succeed at almost anything </h3>
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<h3 align="center">
for which he has unlimited enthusiasm.</h3>
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</div>
<div align="center">
~ Charles Shwab ~<br />
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What goals do you hope to achieve in the next week, month, or year?</div>
Unknownnoreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3927772379648537445.post-16774858527680901292013-07-14T06:56:00.000-07:002013-08-02T12:06:30.863-07:00SORTed lives ~ garage<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
This lucky home owner has a large, walk-in closet with ample shelving located in her garage. . . perfect for storing holiday decorations, luggage, camping and skiing supplies, hardware and tools. The family had like items grouped together on this open shelving, but the lack of clear boundaries and insufficient storage containers made it hard to maintain order. </div>
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<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="float: left; margin-right: 1em; text-align: left;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg9FUNkfgusQ4g2jBZVkszD7B1u4V9eO5RYcwxo3jULOV1fb5ZRHlBkrtq7w4KiG6bGGTaC9FUvFyzMCXJ9AoVHAO1I09VfD2bzkuI_h2bc9DnAcg5g-I9dcfhM5Gymp5_J8dmCLA_blXc7/s1600/Closet+-+Before.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="400" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg9FUNkfgusQ4g2jBZVkszD7B1u4V9eO5RYcwxo3jULOV1fb5ZRHlBkrtq7w4KiG6bGGTaC9FUvFyzMCXJ9AoVHAO1I09VfD2bzkuI_h2bc9DnAcg5g-I9dcfhM5Gymp5_J8dmCLA_blXc7/s400/Closet+-+Before.JPG" width="300" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Garage Shelves :: Before</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
<table cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="float: right; text-align: right;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhJxR_NY_sgYVWL3ZrmGc8WZHzgrnm1OnnyehVixqAP2lK23vU6g2TKipQC84Z5Iu77Cv_ujX8LP9k7HA-Why3wrGpPDfCYaLnf_mNEckBezciw4PmYy-Qc80KuUhLf_amXbLduB2I2EKTA/s1600/Closet+-+After(2)+cropped.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="400" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhJxR_NY_sgYVWL3ZrmGc8WZHzgrnm1OnnyehVixqAP2lK23vU6g2TKipQC84Z5Iu77Cv_ujX8LP9k7HA-Why3wrGpPDfCYaLnf_mNEckBezciw4PmYy-Qc80KuUhLf_amXbLduB2I2EKTA/s400/Closet+-+After(2)+cropped.jpg" width="300" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Garage Shelves :: After</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
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We started by removing everything from the space and grouping like items together. Some items, such as a few rogue holiday decorations, already had a home elsewhere in the garage. These items were returned to their true homes. Everything else was grouped into categories, and we used post-it notes to name each group. Once everything was cleared out, we gave the shelving a quick wipe-down. Then, we began the task of choosing containers for each category based on how much we had of that item and when/how it is used. Closed containers with lids hold less-often-used supplies, helping us to take advantage of more of the formerly wasted vertical space. Open containers were used for more frequently used products. These labeled bins act as drawers, so homeowners can pull them out to see all the contents inside. Once everything was sorted, we no longer needed the large space-eating bins on the left in the "Before" picture, which opened up quite a bit of floor space and made the shelves more accessible.<br />
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<table cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="float: left; margin-right: 1em; text-align: left;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEikoEQw4vEWLYyJq-SAlLsgOo1X3815ole3UuFBgI9EQknAOSWc6zSiajyPoUUxDqGr2JPzabQ2SKZM1Hek8gqK6trpz0LqclmNoIhbPq6T1TjSBiEYGrGP5cjadtsE81fE7IcNuMkD7DQ1/s1600/Shelf-+Before.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="400" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEikoEQw4vEWLYyJq-SAlLsgOo1X3815ole3UuFBgI9EQknAOSWc6zSiajyPoUUxDqGr2JPzabQ2SKZM1Hek8gqK6trpz0LqclmNoIhbPq6T1TjSBiEYGrGP5cjadtsE81fE7IcNuMkD7DQ1/s400/Shelf-+Before.JPG" width="300" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Garage Shelf :: Before</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: right;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiTfl1yUi1prbXWJKXJaZiyPgSYA6iMG4EP1jcnAq5OCa5oY2WLSVSGxekw5AGmHb14W25qMvei0i-JtqdzbZMOrkf4ITUhRAAIKwLFRXIUPQ2vQe_pSSjJr2VV4LwnyXtxBdEzP23vR6f1/s1600/Shelf-+After.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="clear: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="400" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiTfl1yUi1prbXWJKXJaZiyPgSYA6iMG4EP1jcnAq5OCa5oY2WLSVSGxekw5AGmHb14W25qMvei0i-JtqdzbZMOrkf4ITUhRAAIKwLFRXIUPQ2vQe_pSSjJr2VV4LwnyXtxBdEzP23vR6f1/s400/Shelf-+After.JPG" style="cursor: move;" unselectable="on" width="300" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Garage Shelf :: After</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
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This shelf just outside the kitchen door holds flower pots, glass vases, kids' art supplies and toys for the pool. In the "Before" picture, you can see that lots of vertical space is lost on the vase shelf, and lack of boundaries makes other items hard to access. Overflow items end up on the floor or wherever space can be found.<br />
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Again, our process involved removing items shelf-by-shelf and grouping like items together. The homeowner decided to purge some of her vases and flower pots. Once we identified the items to keep, we decided that flowerpots would remain on the top shelf. On the second shelf, we added a shelf extender, which decreased the surface area needed for vases by almost half. We then sorted children's art supplies and grouped them in bins and large 12x12 sterilite drawers. On the bottom shelf are pool toys and a pot too heavy for the top shelf, and underneath that are coolers and potting soil. Everything is much more visible and accessible, and we added storage to encourage putting items back where they belong.<br />
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Here's a close-up of the art supply shelf:<br />
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgBzKlpwilgh01wzBIbI1UmWkPh7vIQ1KIJEJ03AtoS9UxC9t9GIfwHPgAbeUu2fOwmDPFZI5cI7gCS3o0IDp5sINeKAUIPKvWFqrUNYOz8fK4IIVd8UpMdYz-vqMIgr8PsHH6qemjQTj4Q/s1600/Shelf+close-up+-+After.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="298" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgBzKlpwilgh01wzBIbI1UmWkPh7vIQ1KIJEJ03AtoS9UxC9t9GIfwHPgAbeUu2fOwmDPFZI5cI7gCS3o0IDp5sINeKAUIPKvWFqrUNYOz8fK4IIVd8UpMdYz-vqMIgr8PsHH6qemjQTj4Q/s400/Shelf+close-up+-+After.JPG" width="400" /></a></div>
Unknownnoreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3927772379648537445.post-73529172337309661222013-07-08T10:31:00.000-07:002013-07-10T08:25:48.410-07:00quote of the week ~ July 8, 2013<table align="center" border="0" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" style="background-color: white; font-family: "Helvetica Neue",Helvetica,Arial,sans-serif; table-layout: fixed; width: 500px;">
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<tr><td style="padding: 0px;" width="10"></td><td dir="ltr" style="color: #333333; font-family: Georgia,"Times New Roman",Times,serif; font-size: 22px; line-height: 26px; padding: 0px; word-wrap: break-word;"><h4 style="text-align: center;">
</h4>
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In order to succeed, your desire for success should be greater than your fear of failure.<br />
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~ Bill Cosby ~</div>
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Unknownnoreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3927772379648537445.post-86072782676260970162013-07-02T06:55:00.000-07:002013-07-25T21:30:00.611-07:00SORTed lives ~ medicine cabinet and kitchen drawer<h3 style="text-align: center;">
Medicine Cabinet</h3>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgbCZHhEt2RLRso51hcv8RVTXaxhH3wIBB2u5RevF8ar9Z6SJpLAOV2KagBbKy55PmerYx_HqjQSuyBlZm5WBa2KS9fF67VkpHlbpkKIe5tHBRO7Z-_Ee8sKOJZIEhcmkjOrMWC_iADqTXX/s1600/Cabinet+collage.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="236" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgbCZHhEt2RLRso51hcv8RVTXaxhH3wIBB2u5RevF8ar9Z6SJpLAOV2KagBbKy55PmerYx_HqjQSuyBlZm5WBa2KS9fF67VkpHlbpkKIe5tHBRO7Z-_Ee8sKOJZIEhcmkjOrMWC_iADqTXX/s640/Cabinet+collage.jpg" width="640" /></a></div>
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Today I helped a dear friend sort a medicine cabinet that, according to her, has been accumulating for 20 years(!). This medicine cabinet is large and deep, which is a luxury, but a lack of containers meant a loss of vertical space and made it hard to see the contents, especially towards the back. In addition, this woman and her husband travel internationally for mission work several times a year, and there are special toiletry items that they use only during these mission trips. We knew we needed to create some boundaries by grouping like items together and containing them in a way that made them easy to access.<br />
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We started by taking everything out of the cabinet and sorting it into categories. We threw out anything that was expired or not likely to be used. Once we could see how much of each item we had, we chose the appropriate containers for each group. Adding clear plastic drawers and open baskets (all labeled) makes it much easier to find what is needed. We sorted the contents into categories such as Cold & Allergy, Pain Relievers, Bandaids, Vitamins, etc. We were able to utilize the whole depth of the closet thanks to these awesome <a href="http://www.containerstore.com/shop?productId=10027801&N=&Ns=p_sort_default%7C0&Ntt=like-it"><span style="color: #14d2c5;">extra-deep baskets</span></a> and <a href="http://www.containerstore.com/shop?productId=10027797&N=&Ns=p_sort_default%7C0&Ntt=like-it"><span style="color: #14d2c5;">drawers</span></a> from The Container Store. The AFTER picture shows how much organization a few containers added to this space. Voila!<br />
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Kitchen Drawer</h3>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjk05BigEe8eO13xccJlEKwJ8ko7cs10iUpCtLeb2Ad5ZOehmiTAe72NWlV6JliG-Q5ORrK6QmLn4Q-mZqWKTmHwW8-L6F4EQrUoQMMGKw6OAAfiGXoNlvdeMsgebwaI2JbnNx_m5cs4ewU/s1600/drawer+collage.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="236" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjk05BigEe8eO13xccJlEKwJ8ko7cs10iUpCtLeb2Ad5ZOehmiTAe72NWlV6JliG-Q5ORrK6QmLn4Q-mZqWKTmHwW8-L6F4EQrUoQMMGKw6OAAfiGXoNlvdeMsgebwaI2JbnNx_m5cs4ewU/s640/drawer+collage.jpg" width="640" /></a></div>
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This extra-large kitchen drawer holds large grill tools, meat forks, and hot plate holders. The home-owner admits that this is the least organized part of the kitchen, in large part due to the large size and awkward shape of many of its contents. Adding <a href="http://www.containerstore.com/shop?productId=10030007&N=&Nao=20&Ntt=drawer+organizer">customizable clear acrylic drawer organizers</a> makes it easier to see and find utinsels, as well as making it safer to reach into this drawer of sharp objects.</div>
Unknownnoreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3927772379648537445.post-512003245388517132013-07-01T06:50:00.001-07:002013-07-01T06:50:24.450-07:00quote of the week ~ July 1, 2013<br />
<h3 class="MsoNormal" style="margin: 0in 0in 10pt; text-align: center;">
<span class="usercontent"><span lang="EN" style="mso-ansi-language: EN;">When we throw out the physical clutter, </span></span></h3>
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<span class="usercontent"><span lang="EN" style="mso-ansi-language: EN;">we clear our minds.</span></span></h3>
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<span class="usercontent"><span lang="EN" style="mso-ansi-language: EN;">When we throw
out the mental clutter, </span></span></h3>
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<span class="usercontent"><span lang="EN" style="mso-ansi-language: EN;">we clear our souls.</span></span></h3>
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<span class="usercontent"><span lang="EN" style="mso-ansi-language: EN;"><span style="font-family: Calibri;">~ Gail Blanke ~</span></span></span></div>
Unknownnoreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3927772379648537445.post-37451807412782541712013-06-29T06:19:00.001-07:002013-07-01T06:49:03.135-07:00simple tool - bag hook for the carContainer Store just wrapped up their annual travel sale, and though I was VERY tempted by <a href="http://www.containerstore.com/shop/travel?productId=10034838&N=130&Nao=60&Ntt=bag">this bag</a>, I managed to make it through the sale with only one tiny purchase. It's a simple thing, but it has made my car feel much more organized, so I thought I'd share.<br />
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In Austin, one-time-use plastic bags have been outlawed. Some stores offer paper bags, but mostly Austinites are switching to reusable bags. I fully support the eco-friendly nature of this mandate, but it is HARD to remember to bring your bags into the store. I leave mine laying in the back seat in hopes that I will see them on my way out. This works for me because no one sits in the back on a regular basis, but it still feels kind of like a mess. I want my bags to be in sight, but not in the way. Here's the <a href="http://www.containerstore.com/shop?productId=10030474&N=&Ntt=car+hooks">new gadget</a> that solved that problem:<br />
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgi1wpFDB8SBFSwPkdfltLbWX8f_ZRhfXuwARL79_jUxW_NiUAqT7aj8fKI8LOE2L1yHN-mrncFOVCvuN2McUtL74JEg_5fvReUUatQbj1dV25URf-59iH9RYJAVjqdpdIPNmxIe28vpwjE/s1600/004.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"></a><br /></div>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgi1wpFDB8SBFSwPkdfltLbWX8f_ZRhfXuwARL79_jUxW_NiUAqT7aj8fKI8LOE2L1yHN-mrncFOVCvuN2McUtL74JEg_5fvReUUatQbj1dV25URf-59iH9RYJAVjqdpdIPNmxIe28vpwjE/s1600/004.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="400" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgi1wpFDB8SBFSwPkdfltLbWX8f_ZRhfXuwARL79_jUxW_NiUAqT7aj8fKI8LOE2L1yHN-mrncFOVCvuN2McUtL74JEg_5fvReUUatQbj1dV25URf-59iH9RYJAVjqdpdIPNmxIe28vpwjE/s400/004.JPG" width="300" /></a><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg6-44tHJfdpyVN5d4nQfqmaHluyDLbqGO3gSmuVBPaI59fXJVn6iQYy_JhpRlMRXTT9oUdapz49i_tgu8zoV3_FV44xImhjEYYaLqk0Nyl2pXzoGLcwqxYDf2mAIu3E_4tbplr8Q6N98ss/s1600/007.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="clear: right; float: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: 1em;"><img border="0" height="400" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg6-44tHJfdpyVN5d4nQfqmaHluyDLbqGO3gSmuVBPaI59fXJVn6iQYy_JhpRlMRXTT9oUdapz49i_tgu8zoV3_FV44xImhjEYYaLqk0Nyl2pXzoGLcwqxYDf2mAIu3E_4tbplr8Q6N98ss/s400/007.JPG" width="300" /></a></div>
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Now my bags hang neatly from the back of my driver's seat (I put all of my bags inside one skinny reusable bag so it's easy to grab the whole bunch when I head into the store). Voila! Underneath the bags, I use a caddy that is actually a <a href="http://www.hancockfabrics.com/Mackinac-Moon-Open-Top-Craft-Tote-Black-Pink-Dots_stcVVproductId149754766VVviewprod.htm">scrapbooking organizer</a>. It houses an emergency first aid kit, coupons, umbrella, a bible, a lint roller, bug spray, sun screen, and extra set of glasses, a pen and paper, and some CDs. The pocket behind the seat holds <a href="http://www.stelladot.com/sites/katiebryan">Stella & Dot</a> catalogs in a plastic folder.Unknownnoreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3927772379648537445.post-63453165189688919342013-06-26T13:39:00.000-07:002013-06-26T13:41:02.054-07:00planner love!I know many people have moved to electronic methods of calendar- and list-keeping, but I think I will always be a paper/pencil kind of girl. The act of writing something down helps me to remember it, and the act of crossing it off once it's accomplished brings a rush of satisfaction every time. I don't care how "smart" my iphone might be...it just doesn't do it for me like a dayplanner.<br />
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My life has revolved around the school calendar since I entered kindergarten, so my "new year" really begins in August. For that reason, I choose to use a July through June planner. I've used the same eco-friendly one from <a href="http://www.greenroomeco.com/">greenroom</a> (available at Target) for the past few years. Needless to say, I start checking the shelves of my local Target around April in my excitement for the new line. By May, they are usually available and I will snatch up a new one and begin plugging in important dates for the year ahead. Here's the one I grabbed a few months ago:<br />
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhUGF8CnVcAwICeICJjrvggJ2h5g8F3FJTuzxEfND4Iunin2NAxz0-Npv9gthyVjd8TDSYma9HvUyNtbqDTgyspFQYy30IrsvwDPiVhDkaSyB2z91PK1YkMXEb-yZPkqD3jOV_x7QoK1Y37/s1600/Planner+Collage.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhUGF8CnVcAwICeICJjrvggJ2h5g8F3FJTuzxEfND4Iunin2NAxz0-Npv9gthyVjd8TDSYma9HvUyNtbqDTgyspFQYy30IrsvwDPiVhDkaSyB2z91PK1YkMXEb-yZPkqD3jOV_x7QoK1Y37/s320/Planner+Collage.jpg" width="320" /></a></div>
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The good: familiarity (since it's exactly like my old one), size (at about 6"x8", it fits into some of my larger purses and is easy to tote), sturdy cardboard composite cover, attractive, provides monthly and daily planning, plenty of room within each day's allotted space to write appointments, events, reminders, and to-dos</div>
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The bad: Though I love how much space is provided for each day, the lack of structure makes it a struggle to decide where to write what. I try to separate to-do lists, events, and errands into separate parts of the box, but inevitably it becomes a big mess. Here's a picture of what a typical week looks like. </div>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhmLsbezP1Fl8om6tVVORbYyXA6AQF1fF1k6TUMFxJ2qyO5AQp5Ost920CA3sV6G3KHXMZFjfJrGl0CaxHOGQVcSISKAupt8-a1SBJGsSKqxjtPj9Fg6DMsGFe6p7jqI5xkdZO1o5rkXhtv/s1600/014.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="240" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhmLsbezP1Fl8om6tVVORbYyXA6AQF1fF1k6TUMFxJ2qyO5AQp5Ost920CA3sV6G3KHXMZFjfJrGl0CaxHOGQVcSISKAupt8-a1SBJGsSKqxjtPj9Fg6DMsGFe6p7jqI5xkdZO1o5rkXhtv/s320/014.JPG" width="320" /></a></div>
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I highlight the list items I've actually accomplished and move those I haven't accomplished into the next day's box. This system has been working for me, and my intention was to continue with it, UNTIL....</div>
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Ahhh.....I fell in love! Check these babies out!!</div>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjvmd6A8ZuqZGmPOPOui01rzoJixuJKbT3sLsWAshArRAyouij_w7h9GUTvwC8oUK9VAA8M7z9Cau7Q7dzANI2Ei4Sfym3AQlHLMS_743EI_q5PmY8aKOUQcFRfujZ96I7lQVthVJKkk48l/s1600/005+with+arrow.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="480" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjvmd6A8ZuqZGmPOPOui01rzoJixuJKbT3sLsWAshArRAyouij_w7h9GUTvwC8oUK9VAA8M7z9Cau7Q7dzANI2Ei4Sfym3AQlHLMS_743EI_q5PmY8aKOUQcFRfujZ96I7lQVthVJKkk48l/s640/005+with+arrow.jpg" width="640" /></a></div>
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I wasn't shopping for a planner since I'd already purchased mine, but I passed by this end cap and was immediately drawn to the color and design of these <a href="http://www.blueskyimg.com/">Blue Sky</a> planners styled by designer <a href="http://www.dabneylee.com/">Dabney Lee</a>. I picked one up, began to flip through it, and loved what I saw! Though I'd already purchased one (and wrote in it, so it can't be returned), I decided it was worth it to replace the old version with this <a href="http://www.blueskyimg.com/Search/horizontal">horizontal 8"x10" planner</a> (see arrow above). </div>
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Here's what I love about my new planner:</div>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjqBLi5zWJ7pe3x6DRjqfpC3o17q0r2ZFtiP2QYNVkscPtzGZ6mJZIbz6NZ1R0ICr4l4eaOYx6h-QlZ3JAMPunBUocLb7Q6mLsxvEpw3_6qtuFc1GbSKrxZSO0GYBAeJMXMnsWomz6sxNHo/s1600/018.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="275" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjqBLi5zWJ7pe3x6DRjqfpC3o17q0r2ZFtiP2QYNVkscPtzGZ6mJZIbz6NZ1R0ICr4l4eaOYx6h-QlZ3JAMPunBUocLb7Q6mLsxvEpw3_6qtuFc1GbSKrxZSO0GYBAeJMXMnsWomz6sxNHo/s640/018.JPG" width="640" /></a></div>
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A large monthly calendar, flanked by a monthly Do/Call/Buy list for the month....love it!</div>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhplJebJGhFJ_2Q3aQIOVLeVw29fjpMB5jGSoSf6lybM-7KYkJsiVw4ulUTOpQSWTf4rCjsU8i9dPcNiRu91m4GDJU5QOV6PpJsAckCrq_O-5QL4EapXhaaVNxxBgNFjGdggBBsealgoZfE/s1600/021.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="323" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhplJebJGhFJ_2Q3aQIOVLeVw29fjpMB5jGSoSf6lybM-7KYkJsiVw4ulUTOpQSWTf4rCjsU8i9dPcNiRu91m4GDJU5QOV6PpJsAckCrq_O-5QL4EapXhaaVNxxBgNFjGdggBBsealgoZfE/s640/021.JPG" width="640" /></a></div>
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Daily columns with bullets for listing to-dos and events...perfect for the way I used my planner! </div>
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Here is how I plan to organize it:</div>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEieHLwcwWrpd7KUuwKxqcxQ97LJbJfvsYvF6MtUW7SbFJzLf1yRzFFo0iIcGmixjg88RkuXKVnDRcvq6ShyqSfqF1EvoR2NKakTO13CnrAhuIptRvMKgj5i36YjBHxCYZ5CB6qNZ6WULoAy/s1600/022.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="480" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEieHLwcwWrpd7KUuwKxqcxQ97LJbJfvsYvF6MtUW7SbFJzLf1yRzFFo0iIcGmixjg88RkuXKVnDRcvq6ShyqSfqF1EvoR2NKakTO13CnrAhuIptRvMKgj5i36YjBHxCYZ5CB6qNZ6WULoAy/s640/022.JPG" width="640" /></a></div>
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The new planner does have some down sides ~it's larger and less durable seeming than the one I was using before. Overall, though, I think this design is going to work so well for my needs. I can't wait until Monday, when I get to start using it!</div>
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Unknownnoreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3927772379648537445.post-9644773407564718582013-06-24T08:00:00.000-07:002013-06-24T08:00:06.049-07:00quote of the week ~June 24, 2013<h1 style="text-align: center;">
<span style="color: black;"><span style="font-size: 20px;"><span style="font-family: inherit;">Order is the shape upon which beauty depends.</span></span></span></h1>
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<span style="color: black;"><span style="font-size: 20px;"><span style="font-family: inherit;">~ Pearl S. Buck ~ </span></span></span></h1>
Unknownnoreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3927772379648537445.post-84295633574361442302013-06-24T06:51:00.000-07:002013-07-25T21:11:08.098-07:00SORTed lives ~ little boy's closetThis motivated mama and I tackled her third-grade son's closet while he was away at Grandma's house this week. Before re-organizing, there was clothing spread out over several hanging bars. Along the back wall, two large organizing tools (a wooden rack and hanging shelves) were inefficiently holding books, shoes, belts, and sports equipment. Crates and boxes underneath the clothing held books, and an overflowing hamper shoved in the back corner contained dress-up clothing. <br />
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BEFORE</h3>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhFacftngCW8H74e89EaOILRFPD7MUzc8RjZ5d1tStnX-VRzlRJ2y1-fkgpoTTCTJOK5yk1gt6dgYWKLrbRMYLvbnJ6uxuXKzS8cDISq8xLMjtMefVcq2gBxANqmP0c95AkO7wxuuK_ktfG/s1600/010.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhFacftngCW8H74e89EaOILRFPD7MUzc8RjZ5d1tStnX-VRzlRJ2y1-fkgpoTTCTJOK5yk1gt6dgYWKLrbRMYLvbnJ6uxuXKzS8cDISq8xLMjtMefVcq2gBxANqmP0c95AkO7wxuuK_ktfG/s320/010.JPG" width="240" /></a></div>
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First, we removed the inefficient organizing tools. The clothing was sorted and much of it was purged or passed to little brother's room. Clothing was grouped according to type, and all of it fit easily on the bottom hanging rod. On the shelf above the rod, we added an<a href="http://store.closetmaid.com/webapp/wcs/stores/servlet/ProductDisplay?catalogId=10051&storeId=10151&top_category=10002&parent_category_rn=10054&categoryId=10087&productId=10461"><span style="color: #14d2c5;"> 8-cube organizer by Closetmaid</span></a> to hold shorts, bathing suits, socks, pajamas, shoes, etc. with canvas drawers to contain the smaller items. Underneath the clothing are two<a href="http://www.sterilite.com/SelectProduct.html?id=693&view=0&picture=1&tab=Specifications&ProductCategory=260&section=1"><span style="color: #14d2c5;"> Sterilite drawers</span></a> to hold books, making them much easier to access. An open bin holds socks. The dress-up clothes were relocated to the dresser in the bedroom and the hamper will now be used for dirty clothes.<br />
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AFTER</h3>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgl6aVvAclB39Hjrl_QeWYgOs3QaulewuRnjBBBabtoKzvFbZzoaII6ca4ky7THekh-WsPpSxXyCnWZuCb5jGYxwSbEGolzXhz7HJnMhiV9Fkp0yzfX1FaIAhhgXMeIQfVclQgg00IV2X30/s1600/001.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgl6aVvAclB39Hjrl_QeWYgOs3QaulewuRnjBBBabtoKzvFbZzoaII6ca4ky7THekh-WsPpSxXyCnWZuCb5jGYxwSbEGolzXhz7HJnMhiV9Fkp0yzfX1FaIAhhgXMeIQfVclQgg00IV2X30/s320/001.JPG" width="240" /></a></div>
Unknownnoreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3927772379648537445.post-48441520300695478232013-06-20T06:50:00.000-07:002013-07-25T21:11:30.506-07:00SORTed lives ~ little girl's closetI loved doing a closet makeover for this little cutie! Her family recently moved into a new home, where her closet is much smaller than before. Her mom indicated that the biggest problem in this closet was the lack of visibility and access for her first grade daughter. As you can see, the family attempted to remedy the problem with a small step stool, but because the floor of the closet was pretty full, there was nowhere for the stool to "live" and the doors of the closet always stood open.<br />
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi3Cw7uNr71hurePtjvWNcmXn72tjxK7mlFKDB3ScIxKkLLirt4P_Up41rOmjwlMv0UfGVrWqykzVnTOFazTT1bBgEAQ_5g8YjCU8NtRaCeO624owke4A0DQR4BFa-tZmkmDg_V5Em18kQ1/s1600/Closet+Before+cropped.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi3Cw7uNr71hurePtjvWNcmXn72tjxK7mlFKDB3ScIxKkLLirt4P_Up41rOmjwlMv0UfGVrWqykzVnTOFazTT1bBgEAQ_5g8YjCU8NtRaCeO624owke4A0DQR4BFa-tZmkmDg_V5Em18kQ1/s320/Closet+Before+cropped.jpg" width="223" /></a></div>
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On the top shelf of the closet was a collection of blankets, purses, old lunch boxes and backpacks, electronics, keepsakes and jewelry. None of these items are used often, so they do not need to be easily accessible to the little girl, but it would be helpful to create a system so that the contents of the shelf are clear.</div>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjDjyuPXLPqaXjZC6Ly6B9kFFyfTbS29UH889fDhNfrL48lVqE4xJuFj1VYJdaf2MfdyOjH6Y5xuNxCnaWCwmf8k934lqE0eQRM4PhCMVQgnqyDwklXqD6NYr0ljw5RhhC2RkY2SigTnVmX/s1600/Top+shelf+Before+cropped.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="257" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjDjyuPXLPqaXjZC6Ly6B9kFFyfTbS29UH889fDhNfrL48lVqE4xJuFj1VYJdaf2MfdyOjH6Y5xuNxCnaWCwmf8k934lqE0eQRM4PhCMVQgnqyDwklXqD6NYr0ljw5RhhC2RkY2SigTnVmX/s320/Top+shelf+Before+cropped.jpg" width="320" /></a></div>
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We started the process by removing everything from the closet and sorting it into categories. With like items grouped together, we assessed how much of each type of item we had. We added a <a href="http://www.containerstore.com/shop/closet/closetAccessories?productId=10000195&N=81141&Ntt=closet+rod+extender"><span style="color: #14d2c5;">low hanging bar</span></a> to the closet so that the little girl can better reach her clothing. Her sleeveless and short- sleeved tops hang on the low bar, with pants and skirts above and long-sleeved tops and dresses to the left. In the winter, long- and short-sleeved tops can swap places to make the seasonally appropriate clothing most accessible. We cleared the floor area, leaving only a trunk full of dolls and doll clothes, to make room for her footstool. <br />
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjSUt91ChhpsDRBm2vDjV9a8qQC_Jc8887D2m9-T92DGcvSYTJls9crzWu2JHlJvy0pVvlg2WMgC1viXM9r-FFnV_h2kAcK_iMxtMx8UJs59zuZRzQg_IWWy9EDFbtODmDsQPuB9oAuP7wX/s1600/Closet+After.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjSUt91ChhpsDRBm2vDjV9a8qQC_Jc8887D2m9-T92DGcvSYTJls9crzWu2JHlJvy0pVvlg2WMgC1viXM9r-FFnV_h2kAcK_iMxtMx8UJs59zuZRzQg_IWWy9EDFbtODmDsQPuB9oAuP7wX/s320/Closet+After.JPG" width="240" /></a></div>
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On the top shelf, we <a href="http://www.containerstore.com/shop?productId=10006896&N=&Nao=20&Ntt=open+bin"><span style="color: #14d2c5;">containerized</span></a> and labeled the infrequently used bags, purses, blankets, etc. so that items are easily seen and accessed. These open bins take advantage of previously wasted vertical space and allow for visibility, even from below. Plus, the pink adds a cute pop of color that ties together with the rest of her bedroom decor!<br />
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhP4FyrQ0w0lpLVd3aS3iiUNePoOG8f45Xjxgfw3yReFG-hchZeKt6f4ORg0V9MD1j9Pr_IyGoJRsNb_TKvRS6ljkXh_YHQ5frbLrSNFmhqKyT9oPiAfmyfWUvNRgorFC1ha7bkWNMTThuF/s1600/Top+Shelf+After+cropped.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="228" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhP4FyrQ0w0lpLVd3aS3iiUNePoOG8f45Xjxgfw3yReFG-hchZeKt6f4ORg0V9MD1j9Pr_IyGoJRsNb_TKvRS6ljkXh_YHQ5frbLrSNFmhqKyT9oPiAfmyfWUvNRgorFC1ha7bkWNMTThuF/s320/Top+Shelf+After+cropped.jpg" width="320" /></a></div>
Unknownnoreply@blogger.com0