Three Ingredients for an Organized Kitchen

Kudos to my son-in-law, Micah, and his generation of guys who are not strangers to the kitchen! As much as my granddaughters love to make food in their play kitchen, they will grow up expecting their husbands to have culinary skills like their daddy does. My husband and I are more traditional-- he stays out of the kitchen and I stay away from the barbeque. One custom we’ve learned from our kids is-- one cooks and the other cleans up. I like that!
 
However you divide the culinary duties in your home, a well-organized kitchen is a happier place to be. Today's Timely Tips have three key ingredients to creating this happier place, but there’s lots of room for experimenting and seasoning it to your own taste.

Timely Tips for an organized kitchen

PURGE - As usual, that's the first key ingredient. When kitchen drawers and cabinets are crammed full, you’re less likely to find what you need and more likely to go out and buy a duplicate. You’re less likely to put things away, because there’s no room, and more likely to eventually avoid the kitchen all together.
 
Purge the gadgets and utensils that haven’t been used since—well, ever. Purge the plethora of coffee mugs and reduce to what you actually need and use. Purge the lidless containers, and containerless lids. If you replaced pots and pans, but never let go of the old ones, do it now. Same with mixing bowls, dishes, glassware, thermal mugs, water bottles, etc.
 
Purge the items you've been storing “just in case” like your fondue set, punch bowl, etc. I’m sure there’s someone out there who has saved everything. You can borrow from them, if needed. 
 
If you can't decide about some things, place them in a box in the garage or high in a closet. If during the next six months you go there to get something out of the box, it’s earned its keep. If not, let those things go, too.
 
Cruise through your spices and check for expired dates. Do the same with other dry goods. Are there half-used boxes of cereal no one has touched in months? Are there specialty items you purchased for a recipe that you decided is too much work? Let the items and the guilt go.

ZONES - Now you’re ready to move on with ingredient two—setting up your zones. Think about where you stand when you prepare coffee, make lunches, put left-overs away, bake cookies, prepare dinner, etc. Designate zones based on where you use items and place like things together.
 
The countertops should only store items that are used daily, or multiple times per week. The most accessible cabinets and drawers should be used for other items that are frequently used. Place the rarely used items in the high and low areas and in those deep corner cabinets.

PRODUCTS - Ingredient three is using organizing products that make your space more efficient.

Click here for a link to an assortment of helpful products: Resources

Wise Words

Dinner choices: Take it, or leave it.

Downsizing-- it's not just for seniors anymore

My husband and me on a country-drive date in the 70s.

I'm old enough now to see fashion trends come back around. Last week Express.com had a whole 70s line on their "Trending" page. Looking at the styles brings back memories of my suede fringe vest and high-rise pants. As things circle around, designers usually add a little twist that makes your original item not quite in style. So, I'm not too sorry I didn't save all those bellbottoms. 
 
My parents recently did a full circle from apartment living as newlyweds to apartment living as seniors. The twist is that this apartment provides lots of community activities and continuing care, if needed. They chose to downsize, or “rightsize” as I like to call it, paring down to the items they love, use, and need at this stage in life. 
 
I’m working with more people my age who are also choosing to rightsize. Maybe not making a move, but certainly reducing their belongings. Many have experienced clearing out a houseful of their parents’ things—inheriting not only the items of value, but stacks of magazines, closets stuffed with old blankets, etc.
 
For some, the process of rightsizing is imposed on them when it becomes compulsory. This adds a great deal of stress to an already difficult situation. Some put it off because they feel overwhelmed or a have a misconception that it means throwing out all their stuff. Whether you’re scoping out retirement communities, or simply wanting to rightsize in the home you’re in, here are some Timely Tips to help you accomplish your goal.

TIMELY TIPS - for rightsizing your home and belongings

1. Clearly identify what's most important to you now. Maybe in the past you did a lot of skiing, entertaining, or your own yard work. Consider changes in your interests and abilities and identify your current priorities. Evaluate how you spend your time and which belongings are essential to you now. The items that don't fit your current lifestyle could add value to someone else's life, create space in your home, and reduce the amount of stuff you have to manage. 

2. Look around each room with a discerning eye. Is your furniture useful? Does it fit your current taste and style? Is there too much of it? Is it there because of obligation? If you’re storing Great Aunt Susie’s dining set, give her the benefit of the doubt and assume that she wouldn’t want her stuff to be a burden to you. Keep the items that are most precious and useful and let the others go. If you're not hosting big dinners anymore, but taking art classes, consider transforming the formal dining room into an art studio.

3. If you’re moving into a smaller place, get the dimensions of your new home and sketch out where the furniture will go. There are websites like PotteryBarn.com and Freshome.com that offer free online tools to help you arrange your rooms. It may be stressful to reduce, but it’s also stressful to move into a new place that’s crammed with too much furniture. Consider taking photos of your current place before you scale down to make a little memory book of your home as it was. 

4. My parents threw a “Pick & Choose” party before their move. They spread out the items they decided not to move with them and then we all got to pick and choose the things we wanted. It’s always nice to give your children the option of saving the things that mean most to them without the obligation of taking it all.

5. If there are sentimental items that family members aren’t taking, consider photographing them for your own memory’s sake, or keeping a portion of it. Make a pillow out of a square from your old quilt, or keep one place setting of your china. Frame a piece of your grandma’s handmade lace tablecloth if you no longer have a large dining table. Be creative in finding ways to have your cherished items visible and honored. This shadowbox (pictured) holds a page from my grandfather's notebook, a pieced quilt square, jewelry, and hair-clip belonging to my grandma, and some rocks that my grandfather polished.

6. For other items of value consider consigning them or selling them on Craig’s List. An estate sale is also a viable option. Some estate companies offer buyouts instead having a sale on your property. (Feel free to contact me for referrals.) Remember that whatever you’re holding on to is costing you something. Don’t let the monetary value you have in mind for your things keep you from letting go and living a rightsized life. Donating items to your favorite charity thrift store is a fast, easy, and tax deductible way to reduce.

7. Is storing your grown kids’ stuff holding you back from having space to use for your own hobbies or rightsizing to a place more manageable? With a couple clients I photographed their adult childrens’ belongings and emailed the pics for their “yay or nay” on what they’d like sent to them or saved for next time they’re in town. If your kids are local, you can gather up their items and give them a deadline before the donation truck arrives.

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wise words

"Right-sized living means having the right size space with the things that are most important to you, easily accessible."  --Brenda McElroy

Be SMART in Sixteen!

Today as I opened a “new document” on my computer, a blank page popped up. It reminded me of the feeling of a new year. A blank page. But in reality, it’s not blank. It’s full. Full of opportunities. Full of choices. Full of experiences. Full of the unseen.
 
Poet Rainer Maria Rilke said, “And now we welcome the new year. Full of things that have never been.”
 
As you consider this new year, what’s your perspective? Is Doris Day singing in your ear—“Que Sera, Sera” what ever will be, will be? Or, are you planning to take a more intentional role in 2016?
 
A University of Scranton study reported in The Journal of Clinical Psychology that “People who explicitly make resolutions are 10 times more likely to attain their goals than people who don’t explicitly make resolutions.” On the opposite side, as Zig Ziglar says, “If you aim for nothing, you will hit it every time.” One way or the other, 2016 will be full. The question is-- how much of it will be intentional on your part, and how much of it will be determined by other people’s agendas for your life?

I thought I was clever when I named my company “Organized By Choice” with the tag-line “because things don’t always fall into place.” But getting organized isn’t the only thing that’s acquired by choice. Heathy relationships, healthy bodies, financial gain (unless you won that billion-dollar lottery), further education, quitting bad habits, starting good habits, and so much more requires choice, not chance. 
 
On your “blank page” for 2016, what will you choose? Since there’s no time like the present, grab a piece of paper or open a blank document on your computer and, if you haven’t already done so, write down two or three things you would like to see happen in 2016.

Timely Tips

Early in January my son, Chase, and I were texting about our goals. These were the four I shared with him:

1. Floss daily (I know, I should have already been doing this!)

2. Reduce paper using FileThis and ScanSnap

3. Complete my coaching hours for certification

4. Memorize Psalm 145

I like to use George T. Doran’s SMART goal concept and make my goals:
Specific
Measurable
Attainable
Relevant
Time-oriented

SMART Example: A Specific goal is “floss daily” instead of a general “improve dental health.” It’s Measurable because I’ve identified exactly how often I plan to do it. It’s Attainable because it will take less than 2 minutes per day. It’s Relevantbecause it fits with my overall value of caring for my physical health. It’s Time-oriented in that I plan to do this through 2016 (and hopefully beyond!). Take a look at your goals and make adjustments, as needed, to render them SMART

Set up for success: What do you need to make your goals a reality? Supplies? A new routine? A mentor? Professional help? Accountability? Good intentions simply don’t cut it. Under each goal list what you need to succeed. Prioritize your list so you have a plan to follow. 

Small step: Each of my goals, and perhaps most of yours will require an element of a new routine to ensure success. Since we have all failed at starting new routines, this step can be daunting. Leo Babauta (zenhabits.net) says, “If you want to build trust in yourself, you need to start with something incredibly easy, something you won’t fail to do. Most people ignore this advice, and fail, and then don’t believe in themselves.” Another proponent of small steps is Dr. Robert Maurer. In his book,One Small Step Can Change Your Life Maurer suggests that slow progress is better than no progress. Even doing one push-up a day until that becomes your new normal, is better than saying, “I’m going to do 50 push-ups every morning,” and then quitting after the first week. Once you have successfully incorporated your small step into your lifestyle, add a tiny bit more until that becomes your new normal. 

Go public: One step that's hard but helpful is to make your goal public. It doesn’t mean you have to put it in a newsletter like I did, but tell someone that cares about your success and will support you in the process. 

wise words

“What you get by achieving your goals is not as important as what you become by achieving your goals. ”

— Zig Zigler

Embrace What??

You know the warning printed on your car’s side-view mirror, “Objects in the mirror are closer than they appear?” I think our calendars should come with a December warning: “Dates on the calendar are closer than they appear.”
 
I know this is nothing new. It sneaks up on us every year—but really! Where did October and November go? Personally, I think our 90-degree October weather had something to do with it.
 
So, here we are getting very close to Christmas and some are getting very close to crashing. Before you crash, may I recommend something that may help save your sanity? Embrace imperfection!

Which is better—to relax with your company when they arrive, or to have spotless blinds and baseboards with you frantically getting ready at the last minute? Which is better—to have your gifts wrapped and ready a week before Christmas, or fighting the crowds still looking for the “perfect” gift on Christmas Eve? When perfection is the goal it slows and sometimes even stops progress.
 
Most of us aren’t consciously aware of our perfectionist tendencies. We only know that things get more frustrating and stressful when the pressure’s on. We don’t realize that we can control the pressure and reduce the stress simply by embracing imperfection. 

Here are a few Timely Tips to help you embrace imperfection and a joyous holiday season.

Timely Tips

1. List & Schedule Your Non-negotiables - If you’re preparing for company, make a list of the things that absolutely need to be done. Make it a short list. Such as: de-clutter the living room, clean the guest bath and kitchen, and prepare the table and food. Schedule specific times for the tasks you’ve deemed essential. If you can do more, fine, but if not, consider done is better than perfect. I can almost guarantee, no one will be putting a white glove on your blinds or baseboards.

2. Hide Your Mess - Yes, I said it. Don’t be afraid to temporarily hide a mess. If de-cluttering the living room means cluttering a closet, laundry room, or bedroom, do it and close the door. Of course I don’t recommend leaving it that way indefinitely, but the holidays mean extra stuff like bags and bows and boxes of decorations that we didn’t have time to get to. Remember, we’re not going for the perfect house award; we just want to enjoy our family and friends, so let it go. 

3. Delegate - I know the saying, "If you want something done right, do it yourself," but I’ll let you in on a little secret—you can’t do it all, at least not with a good attitude. Believe me, I’ve tried! I’m preaching to myself when I say, “Delegate.” The kids can vacuum and dust. If you have a cleaning service, don’t clean after they’re done (I know some of you do!). Maybe someone else can make Grandma’s pecan pie recipe this year, or just send out an email and have people sign up to bring what they want. Make a list of last minute things that need to be done so that as your guests arrive you’re prepared to enlist their help. Maybe the forks won’t be positioned perfectly by the plates, but remember our new mantra—done is better than perfect!

 4. Give Yourself Self-Care - Most of us would prefer sharing a Christmas celebration with a loved one who didn’t arrive home exhausted at midnight Christmas Eve because they were still searching for the “perfect” gift. If you have that perfectionist tendency, consider giving a gift card with a coupon for a shopping day with you. That way you know they’ll get what they want, and you can be rested and ready for a joyous holiday! Or give yourself a gift for when the holidays are over – an Organized By Choice gift certificate!

wise words

“Done is better than perfect.”

Yes, It Fits!

We were organizing my client’s catch-all room and came across her Costco surplus supplies laying on the floor. I suggested putting them in the hall closet. “There’s no room in there,” she said emphatically. I hear that a lot. Closets seem full, so things are left out or clutter-up other rooms. Often after a quick closet purge of items no longer needed or used, a client is surprised by an open shelf. 
 
Sometimes our lives are like those closets. We randomly stuff them full. Pretty soon, we can’t stuff another thing in, and so things get left out. Sometimes important things. We can’t see that, with a little intentional thought, we can let go of the less important things and make space for what we truly value.
 
In my coach training we talk about creating “A Life That Fits.” Sometimes that means discovering your passions and strengths. Other times that means letting go of a negative perspective, or adding something like a new routine or system. Creating “A Life That Fits” is unique to every individual.
 
There is one component, however, that I believe is essential to every “Life that Fits.” It’s gratitude—the quality of being thankful. Think about it. What does gratitude do for you and those around you? Have you ever regretted or felt worse after being thankful? Has there ever been a time when you didn’t have at least one thing to be thankful for?
 
I recently sat at an event with people from three different families who were each grieving the loss of a child. As they shared with one another how they were coping with the upcoming holidays, I was profoundly struck by the fact that two of them mentioned giving thanks as a method of coping. Intentionally choosing to ponder and give thanks for the blessings in life isn’t removing their pain, but it is helping them cope.

In the article, A Serving of Gratitude May Save the Day by John Tierney (nytimes.com) he says that cultivating an "attitude of gratitude" has been linked to better health, sounder sleep, less anxiety and depression, higher long-term satisfaction with life and kinder behavior toward others. For something that's free and has no negative side effects, gratitude offers some amazing benefits!

Remember the commercial, "There's always room for Jello?" Even if you feel like your life is too full as it is, there's always room for gratitude. May I challenge you to add a daily dose beginning this Thanksgiving week? 

If you’re having a hard time getting started, RealSimple.com has a list of 100 Things to be Thankful for This Year and LifeHack.org has 60 Things to be Thankful for in Life. If none of those seem to fit, you can always say what Mrs. King (my children’s Kindergarten teacher) says, “...and thank You, God, for all the bad things that didn’t happen.”

wise words

“Often people ask how I manage to be happy despite having no arms and no legs. The quick answer is that I have a choice. I can be angry about not having limbs, or I can be thankful that I have a purpose. I chose gratitude.”

— Nick Vujicic

Think Before Tossing

When I was a kid, we had a plum orchard across the street and a big field in the back. We would sculpt dirt clods after the orchard had been plowed and make forts in the field. Daniel Boone was our hero and we'd find really long sticks to use as our rifles. You might say we were masters at repurposing!

I suppose the depression era folks were the true masters and many people still hang on to things-- just in case. As an organizer I'm not against saving things, as long as you know where to find them when you need them, and they're not getting in the way of what you currently need and use. Better yet, I'm all for reducing, reusing, and recycling. 

Today's Timely Tips offer some help for those looking for responsible and productive ways to reduce, reuse, recycle and dispose. The links are for places in the Fresno area.

Timely Tips

1. Gently Used Items - If you do a little homework, you can find a place where your used items will not only become available to those in need at affordable prices, but will also provide funding for worthy causes like job programs, hospice, and family services. Here are just a few Fresno area thrift stores that also offer a tax donation receipt: Neighborhood Thrift, Hinds Hospice Thrift,Fresno Rescue Mission Thrift, and the Salvation Army.

2. Used Oil Drop-off -  SpeeDee Oil Change (6504 N. Blackstone Ave, Fresno)

3. Hazardous Waste - Free drop-off for Fresno residents American Avenue Disposal Site  (18950 W American Ave, Kerman, CA).

4. Eye Glass Donations - Contact a local Lions Club member or click on the link for a mailing address: Lions Club Eyeglass Recycling Program.

5. Cell Phones - Marjaree Mason Center (1600 "M" Street, Fresno) collects all cell phones, including non-working cell phones and those without chargers.

6. Electronics - Best Buy  (7550 N Blackstone, Fresno) accepts TVs, computers, appliances, printer ink, DVDs, video games, cameras, and more. 

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wise words

"I only feel angry when I see waste. When I see people throwing away things we could use."             --Mother Teresa

Functional Families

The other day I thought I was having serious computer problems. When I tried to guide the mouse, the curser seemed to have a mind of its own. It certainly wasn’t going the direction I intended. Fortunately it didn’t take me too long to realize I had the mouse upside down. Do you ever feel like family life is like that? You’re doing your best to guide it along, but instead of running like it should, it’s all over the page.
 
The beginning of the school year can be challenging, but also a great time to take steps toward order. One of my clients has four kids in four different schools. The driving schedule alone can drive a person crazy! Add to that sports, music, gymnastics, homework, etc. and it’s a recipe for fast-food Fridays every night of the week.
 
There’s no one-size-fits-all when it comes to creating a functional family, but here are a few tips and tools to consider if peace and productivity is a priority in your home. 

Timely Tips

Family Mission - What's your overall goal for your family? Does you family have a clear sense of what's most important in life? When this is defined, written out, and talked about as a family, it serves as a plumb line for where your family feeds its energy and time, and how you interact with each other and those outside your family. If you don't choose your family priorities, there are plenty of outside influences that will. More info: Family Mission Statements

House Rules - When I was teaching Sunday School we had one rule -- Respect. That's a great place to start in a family, too. Respect needs to go in all directions-- children to parents, parents to children, respect other's property and your own. A family that values respect can't help but create more peace and unity. Collaborate with your children about other house rules-- homework schedule, video game time, curfews, etc. Establish appropriate rewards and consequences. When everyone is very clear about the expectations, it thwarts a lot of arguing and stress.

Chores - Besides providing our kids with opportunities to learn academics, sports, music, dance, etc. it's our job as parents to give them the skills they needs to manage their own households someday. Good managers don't do all the work themselves. They equip a team that works together for the common good. As your family's manager, be clear on what, how, and when chores needs to be done. Even if your kids buck the idea (and they will!) they'll experience an increased sense of self-worth and belonging as they contribute to the family. For specific chore ideas visit The Chores Kids Can Do, By Age Group.

Routines - Ready to eliminate nagging? When my daughter taught preschool, her three-year-old class learned routines like putting their things in cubbies as they arrived. Schooldays are built on routine like that. These simple practices can be duplicated at home. Plan and write out routines for before school, after school, and bedtime. Building routines takes consistent practice, so don't give up easily! Of course you'll have to be flexible at times, but as your routines become habits, the nagging can subside and your kids will be more responsible. Don't underestimate the power of routines to maintain order, or the ability of your family to learn them. Even three-year-olds can do it!

Family Fun - Be sure to build in some family fun too! Maybe Saturday morning pancake breakfasts, or Friday pizza and game nights. Collaborate about your next family vacation or let the kids each pick an activity and destination for a day trip. Volunteer together at a charity function or local non-profit that benefits those less fortunate. These practices help establish strong family ties, reinforce values, and make your family more FUNctional!

Track it all - COZI is a free app and website that helps you track your family's schedules, chores, meals, and more!

comical words

If you want to call a family meeting, just turn off the wi-fi router and wait in the room in which it is located. --Unknown

What's an adding machine??

The other day I was in Target and overheard an older gentleman ask an employee if they carry adding machines. I had to smile as the young man asked for a description of what an adding machine is. 

Home offices and their contents are highly relative to age and digital use. Of course there are exceptions. Even my son, who went paperless, gets daily mail and occasionally has to put a stamp on an envelope. 

Most Baby Boomers have either had a home office all along, or as soon as the kids move out create one. We carry the idea that that's where we should store and do all our paperwork, but with the advent of laptops, paperless statements, and online bill-paying, most people find themselves paying bills in the living room or sitting at the kitchen table. 

The fact remains, there are still documents you need to keep or at the very least you need a place to put your digital scanner. Many more people are working from home, making a home office a necessity. My office is a work in progress. My husband thought I was crazy when I gave up my huge corner desk and downsized with one that's more my style. Whether your home office sports an adding machine or you're "office" is wherever your laptop lands, today's Timely Tips include some of the basics for home office management.

TIMELY TIPS

Workspace - A desktop computer requires, well... a desktop. Preferably, the desk should have a drawer or two for supplies. Even if using a laptop, it's good to have a clean flat surface to process mail, fill out forms, and store basic supplies. If space is an issue, a desk like this fold-out convertible desk can be mounted just about anywhere.

Basic Supplies - A junk drawer is simply a supply drawer turned junky. Keep it junk-free by using a drawer divider with designated places for your paper clips, rubber bands, tape, stamps, post-it notes, etc. If your "office" is in the kitchen designate a drawer for office supplies or place them in a bin in the cabinet.

Working Files - I use this Wall File Holder for forms I need to access frequently, current projects, and action items. You can also use them for bills to pay, events (invitations, tickets, etc), and a temporary holding spot for receipts and other items. A desktop holder can also store such folders and be placed on the kitchen counter, or wherever the mail is processed. 

Shredder - Unfortunately this has become a staple due to identity theft. Position your shredder so that as you process your mail you are able to easily shred those items that might compromise the security of your identity. If it can't be near your mail processing area, have an extra folder for the "To Shred" items and dispose of them weekly. In addition to a shredder be sure to have a paper recycling container (trash can) close by. 

Inbox - Even with our best intentions there are times when we have loose papers that haven't found a home yet. Containerize them with an "inbox." This could also serve as a simmering place for things that may or may not be kept permanently. Just make sure it doesn't hide important papers or fill to overflowing. I place mine in my desk drawer when not in use to maximize open space on the desktop.

File Drawers - For long-term filing that isn't stored digitally, use a file cabinet for easy access. If you don't have an office, this can be tucked into a closet, or put into file bins and stacked. Keep in mind that we only refer back to about 20% of what we file, so be selective when putting things into files. 

Wise Words
Julie Morgenstern on naming files-- The secret of quick retrieval is to have the fewest places to look for a given document. Keep titles simple and categories broad.

To squeeze or not to squeeze

Like many of you, I have books on organizing. As I was struggling to squeeze another one onto my bookshelf, I noticed, ironically, the book next to it was called Boundaries. Taking my own advice, I looked through the rest of the shelf to see what I could let go of, so I didn't exceed the boundary.

According to the Self Storage Association Fact Sheet, the self storage industry in the United States generated more than $24 billion in annual US revenues (2014). I'm guessing that more than a few folks are struggling with boundaries these days.

Today's Timely Tips address some of the common boundary challenges, but these strategies can be used for multiple areas and belongings.

TIMELY TIPS

Collectibles: A client recently told me that years ago she began collecting Hummel figurines. She has run out of display space, so they're filling up her closets too. Another client collects Hallmark ornaments. She has more than multiple Christmas trees could hold and no closet space for the bins they're stored in. Setting boundaries for a collection first means deciding how much space you have, or want to use, to display and store it. Make sure it doesn't infringe on space for things you currently need and use. If a collection exceeds its allotment of space, choose your favorites and release the rest. Let loved ones know you have completed your collection and would prefer gifts like dinner out, concert or movie tickets, or a day at the spa-- in other words, something you don't have to store or display.

Backup Supplies: One woman emailed asking what to do with all the backup supplies that were spilling out all over the floor. She said she saves money by buying in bulk and stocking up when things are on sale. Unfortunately our space, like our time and money, has limits. Having too much of a good thing can cost us our peace of mind. Often times it ends up costing more money too. You squeeze things in here and there, because you run out of room, and then can't see or find what you already have so you buy more, spending money needlessly and creating even more storage issues. Designate a specific space for backup supplies. Pay attention to your stock before jumping on the sale wagon. Label shelves and create boundaries for paper products, canned goods, hair products, etc, so you can easily see what you have and what you need before purchasing more.

Food Storage Containers: Chances are you have more plastic containers than you have left-overs to put in them. One strategy for setting boundaries is first determining how many of something you need. If what you currently have in the fridge plus a few more seems adequate, then match 5-8 more lids to bottoms and let go of the rest. Honor the boundary by resisting to save every yogurt, sour cream, and lunchmeat container, or repurpose the extras and store them elsewhere.

Toys: Boundaries for toys might include designating "toy-free" areas in your home, just like you do with food. Or, you might set cleanup boundaries-- like placing toys in designated bins every night before bedtime. For outdoor bikes and scooters you can "draw" a parking boundary with colored duct tape in the garage or patio. By maintaining an amount of toys that will fit in the designated storage areas, you will reduce stress for both you and your child when it's time to clean up.  

Wise Words

You CAN have too much of a good thing.   -- Brenda McElroy

True Confession

Hello. My name is Brenda McElroy and I have clutter-- digital clutter, that is. I used to tell myself that since I wasn't physically tripping over it, and I could easily find the email messages I needed, it didn't really matter.    

Recently I decided it does matter. When I open my email I want my inbox to function like my closet-- everything in its place and easy access to what I need most (at least most of the time). I don't want to be distracted by stuff that isn't essential or no longer pertinent. I don't want to wonder if I missed seeing something important, or forgot to respond to something because it slipped to the next page. I don't want to hear my kids say, "You have how many messages in your inbox?!?" anymore.                                                        

I'm happy to say that I'm a couple weeks into it and with the tips and tools I've outlined below, it's not hard to maintain! 

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TIMELY TIPS - for a clutter-free inbox 

1. Purge-- I started by selecting all starred emails (those I had previously identified as important), bringing them to the top of the page and then quickly scanning through the rest. I archived all the ones that weren't worth filing. If your email provider doesn't have that option, you would hit "delete." Yes ouch, but really-- what's the worst thing that could happen deleting email that you don't care about enough to file?   
2. Create Folders-- Use broad categories such as Friends, Family, Finances, Orders, etc. For my business email I have folders for Advertising, Clients, Coaching, Classes, etc. Transfer save-worthy email messages into folders. 
3. Use Auto-Filters-- Gmail has three main tabs Primary, Social (Facebook, Twitter, etc), and Promotional (store advertisements, newsletters, etc). You can add others like Updates (statements, bills, receipts) and Forums (discussion boards, online groups, etc). When messages are categorized like that, it makes scanning and deleting quick and easy. You can also designate messages from specific senders to bi-pass your inbox/tabs and go directly into folders, such as auto-pay notification messages into your Finance folder. 
4. Reduce Inflow-- As new messages arrive, unsubscribe to ads/newsletters (except mine, of course) or check to see if they have a monthly option rather than daily or weekly messages. Mark unsolicited email as spam so that future messages from that sender will go directly to junk mail. Consider picking up the phone to reduce the string of messages that go back and forth as you and your friends or colleagues decide on something. Resist the temptation to click on every "Subscribe" button.
5. Add Boomerang-- A helpful tool for Gmail users allows you to schedule a reminder if someone hasn't responded to your email message. You can type an email and schedule it to be sent at a later time/date and set up recurring messages. If you have an email message that you need to handle the next day, or next week, you can have Boomerang remove it from your inbox and automagically show up on the day/time you designate. 
6. Set Boundaries-- Have specific times for checking email and consider removing notification sounds so that you're not distracted by incoming messages. Determine an inbox limit so that it doesn't get out of hand or overwhelming. A one-page goal may be more reasonable, but if you want to have a zero balance at the end of the day, go for it!

Wise Words

According to a Canadian study and reported in RD's World of Medicine-- April 2015, checking email less frequently (not more than 3 times/day) lowered overall daily stress levels.

A Slow Leak

    One day when I knelt to get a gift bag from a container under my bed, my knees got wet. Uh oh, I thought. Sure enough, there was a slow leak in a pipe under the concrete.

   If we dried the carpet,  replaced the pad, but didn't fix the pipe, we would have eventually been in the same soggy situation.

   Similarly it's often a slow leak of things seeping into your bedroom that causes clutter-- your bag of "treasures" from a conference or home show, gifts for an upcoming birthday. It may be clothes and shoes that seep out of your closet onto the floor, bed, or chair; books and magazines piled and waiting to be read; a half-finished sewing project... you get the picture. 

  It takes a combination of cleaning up the mess and stopping the slow leak to create a peaceful bedroom that promotes a good night's sleep.

   When you walk into your bedroom what message do you receive? Is it one that invites rest and peace, or is it one that leaves you feeling stressed and burdened with stuff to do?

   Timely Tips has some practical ideas on how to clean the mess and stop the slow leak.

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TIMELY TIPS - for a peaceful bedroom

1. Gather supplies - Laundry basket (for dirty clothes); trash/recycle bag; bag/box for donate; bag/box for relocate. Make sure you have your containers clearly marked. Have a dusting cloth and vacuum handy for cleaning after de-cluttering.  

2. Clear and cover the bed  - Use a sheet and temporarily place items on the bed that belong in the bedroom but don't have a home yet.
 
3. Clear the floor and furniture - If you pick up something to wear (clothes, shoes, belts, hats, scarves, jewelry, etc.), make sure it passes the "love it," "feel good wearing it," and "I don't have too many of these" test, otherwise it goes to donate. If it stays, put it away. 

4. Use your relocate box - Place papers, dishes, kids' stuff, projects, and other items that don't serve a purpose in your bedroom into your relocate box.  

5. Create Homes - For items that belong in the bedroom, but are homeless, be intentional about creating specific places for them in the closet, bathroom cabinet, nightstand, or dresser.

6. Toss/Donate/Relocate - Toss the trash, put the donate in your car, and relocate the items belonging elsewhere.  

7. Clean - Give the room a good cleaning. 

8. Stop the slow leak:                                                                                                                           

• Start the day by making your bed (it will help set the tone for a clutter-free room)                      
• Be mindful about what you carry into your room                                                                          
• Don't put things down, put them away
• Change clothes in your closet so that you can hang things up or put them in the dirty clothes right away
• Place clean loads of laundry on your bed and commit to putting them away before bedtime
• End each day with a quick clean-up - relocate items that don't belong and put things away        an upcoming birthday or shower, the pile that got moved from the kitchen counter when company was coming, a half-finished sewing project, clothes that need to be ironed.

Wise Words

"Bedmakers are 19 percent more likely to report getting a good night's sleep than people who leave their blankets messy in the morning."  --National Sleep Foundation

Recharge

Allison and Chase - March 14, 2015  (Photo Credit Hom Photography)

 "Low battery. Your Mac will sleep soon unless plugged into a power outlet." As soon as that popped onto my screen I had a choice. I could plug into power, or take a chance of my laptop shutting down. 

   When I coach people around life management issues, I sometimes wish I could hold up a sign, "Your self-care is dangerously low. If you don't recharge, you're at risk of shutting down."

   Shutting down can manifest itself in exhaustion, stress, sickness, disease, anxiety, depression, strained relationships, and more. 

   This month my son, Chase, and his bride, Allison, got married. With the endless list of last minute wedding to-dos they had a choice-- run themselves into the ground and use the honeymoon to recuperate, or make self-care a priority and show up healthy and ready for the big day.

   Chase and Allison chose mindful eating and some yoga to help them stay healthy and productive. They did a great job, created a beautiful marriage celebration, and still looked refreshed and ready for a honeymoon in Costa Rica!

   Whether you're under a deadline, trying to keep up at home, or overwhelmed with life in general, Timely Tips has some recharging techniques that will make a difference for you.

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TIMELY TIPS - Recharge  

1. Breathe - Of course you're already breathing, but consciously breathing deeply is a healthy, de-stressing activity. Breathe in slowly and deeply through your nose, filling your abdomen, not your chest, with air. Slowly exhale through your mouth. Repeat several times. Stopping to "catch your breath" will have a calming effect.

2. Nap - Babies nap. Older folks nap. Why are those of us in between missing out? A 20-minute nap can recharge your batteries and provide a boost of energy.

3. Eat Healthy & Regularly - A pretty obvious way to recharge, yet often neglected. Set you alarm so you have time to eat breakfast and pack a healthy lunch. Ward off fast food for dinner by creating a weekly meal plan.

4. Develop Routines - Dr. David B. Agus says, "One of our biggest stressors is not finances or marriage, but the lack of a regular routine. Even simply eating lunch an hour later than usual can spike levels of the stress hormone cortisol and disrupt your body's ideal state." Rather than running around like a chicken with its head cut off, design routines for things you do daily at home and at work. 

5. Go to Bed On Time - That might be different for everyone, but according to the National Sleep Foundation, the average adult needs 7-9 hours of sleep each night. Turn off electronic screen earlier in the evening and create a clutter-free bedroom to promote a good night's sleep. 

 6. Exercise - Yep, you knew it was coming, right? But, it doesn't have to mean spending an enormous amount of time and money on a gym membership. FitnessMagazine.com has a 15 Minute De-stress Workout you can do at home, but even something as simple as walking or bike riding can help. Find something you enjoy doing so it's sustainable. You certainly don't want to get stressed about de-stressing!

Wise Words

Hearty laughter is a good way to jog internally without having to go outdoors. --Norman Cousins

You Name It!

A few weeks ago, I reduced the amount of stuff I keep on my desktop. I relocated a number of binders that I wasn’t using often. I assigned them a home in an empty drawer across the room. Today I needed one of those binders. Hmm... where did I put them? I know what you’re thinking, “See, that’s why I don’t organize, because then I can’t find anything!” 

I knew I had given them a home in my office, but what slowed my search was having to open a few containers that weren’t labeled to see if my binders were inside. Perhaps I thought I’d remember what was in them, or had been too lazy to get my label maker out. Regardless, it was now taking extra time. Soon after, I discovered the binders in the drawer. My next step was to label my nameless bins. 

If you like the idea of spending less time looking for things and more time doing what you love, consider making it one step easier to find what you need. Pick up a label maker on your next trip to Costco, Target, or shop Amazon.com. Even a roll of masking tape and a marker will be better than nothing. Check out Timely Tips for some great labeling ideas that will simplify life.

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TIMELY TIPS - You name it! The time you invest up front will be multiplied back to you when (at a glance) you can find what you're looking for!

 1. Kitchen - Label the front edge of the shelves inside the cabinets with what goes there-- dinner plates, glasses, mugs, etc. Then everyone who's emptying the dishwasher will know where to put and find them. In the pantry label open-topped bins for snack foods, pasta, beans, seasoning packets, tea, etc.

2. Closet - Containerize and label stacking bins for batteries, candles, sewing supplies, lights bulbs, craft supplies, photos, keepsakes, party supplies, and whatever else you need and use.  

3. Kids' Rooms -Label the front or top edge of drawers (pants, shorts, shirts), so kids can keep their own clothes organized. Containerize and label bins for toys like cars, balls, ponies, Legos, action figures, etc. If kids aren't reading yet, print a picture of what's inside to post alongside the label. It's a great way to teach them sight words.

4. Bathroom - Label edge of shelves for items like bath towels, hand towels, wash cloths, TP, etc. Use labeled open-topped containers for daily use items and stackable containers labeled for back-up supplies. 

5. Office - Label the spines of binders on your bookcase so you don't have to remove them from the shelf to remember what's in them. Likewise label music, picture, and video disks so you don't have to pop them into a device to figure out what they are. Give your file folders clean and readable labels. Containerize similar office supplies together and label the bins. 

 

Wise Words

Labeling is not just for kids. It ensures that things get put back where they belong, making cleanup a quick, painless, and mindless activity.   - Julie Morgenstern

Two for One!

Everyone’s pitching their strategy for how to have a successful New Year’s resolution. This week I heard both “weigh yourself everyday” and “throw out the scale if you want to lose weight.” So who’s right? I’m leaning toward the daily weigh-in for the simple reason that you’re not going to weigh yourself one day and find you’ve gained 15 pounds the next day! Routine checks help prevent the overwhelm.

Just like weight loss has various elements that combine to bring success, so does organizing. In fact, I found several weight loss tips (some from www.health.com) that have similar organizing applications! So, today you get two for one! Here they are.

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1. Make mindful purchases when hungry. Just like empty calories have negative consequences, so can mindless trips to the dollar store, or impulse buying while standing in line at the register. Make wise purchases, giving thought to how and when things will be used and where they’ll be stored.

2. Everything in moderation. Don’t believe the old adage “you can’t have too much of a good thing.” Whether it’s food or magazines or shoes, having a moderate amount creates a healthier body and environment.

3. Fill a pretty glass pitcher with water and sliced cucumbers. Just because something’s good for you doesn’t mean it has to be humdrum. Filing is good for you and you can make it a little more fun with decorative folders, or a cute file holder or cabinet. Put on some music you love while accomplishing your filing task.

4. Take a before photo. Need some motivation to keep on task with your goal? Take a before photo of the space you’re organizing and post it in the room or on the door.

5. Cut out the drinks with calories. Know your weaknesses and what gets you in trouble. Maybe it’s amazon.com, Target, or Joann’s Fabric and Craft. Avoid your nemesis when possible or shop for only what’s on a pre-determined list.

6. Brush and floss right after dinner. That action will influence what you put into your mouth the rest of the evening. When you make your bed first thing in the morning it sets a tidy tone for the rest of the day.

7. Lose one pound twenty times. Reduce the overwhelm of your goal by setting and celebrating small goals. First organize the floor of your closet. Celebrate. Next, tackle the hanging clothes and then the shelves. Each victory will motivate you to the next step. You don’t have to do it all in one day.

8. Wear something tight. It’s not comfortable until we’ve reduced to what will fit. Set some boundaries for your stuff (mugs, office supplies, DVDs, purses, whatever) and then reduce what you have until it fits comfortably in that space.

9. Weigh in daily. Like I said, no one gains 15 pounds in a day. Routine checking in on our weight and rooms can be the key to not becoming paralyzed by an overwhelming task. Do a quick walk-through your home before going to bed and put away items that were left out.

10. Plan to fail. I’ve only seen The Biggest Loser a few times, but the contestants I’ve seen always experience a setback at some point. Planning to fail isn’t being pessimistic, it’s a way to prepare so you’re not caught off-guard when it happens. Whether you fall off the wagon with your diet and exercise, or your organizing goals, by deciding ahead of time what you’re going to do when that happens, you’ll be one step closer to getting back on.

Wise Words                                                                                                                                     

"As for clutter so for food: If you focus exclusively on the obvious (the stuff in your home, or the stuff on your plate), you will never succeed in achieving any long-term success. The only way to stay on-track is, oddly enough, to take a step back and ask yourself, What is it I want from life?"    -Peter Walsh (Author of Does This Clutter Make My Butt Look Fat)

Pricey vs. Priceless Gifts

We need to spend a little more time thinking about what we receive for Christmas. Yes, I said receive! That may sound selfish, but hear me out. What criteria do you use to judge the gifts you receive. "Judge" may sound harsh, but really, there are some gifts that warm our hearts more than others. Thinking about what's meaningful to us on the receiving end can drive our giving to more meaningful gifts for others. 

Is it the amount of money someone spent? Is it the number of gifts we receive from them? Is it how much space we need to store it? Well, maybe if it's a BMW. But in general, that's not the criteria that creates a cheerful receiver.

Of course there are times when a shirt, sweater, toy, or trinket can be meaningful too, but since you're reading this organizing newsletter, I'm thinking you're open to some meaningful, clutter-free and maybe less expensive gift ideas for Christmas.

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Timely Tip #1 - Food Gifts

Food passes the clutter-free test since it's consumable, but I think it has value beyond that.  Eating is often an activity we share with our loved ones. Homemade cookie mix, soup mix, muffin mix-- these are all gifts that can create shared experiences, making and eating them. There's an endless list of recipes for gifts in a jar online. If you're not that crafty, purchase some local nuts or dried fruit, specialty coffee or tea, or anything covered in dark chocolate (if it's for me). Email me for a copy of my easy-to-make Pumpkin Bread recipe. It makes plenty to share!

We all enjoy a night off from cooking! Create a gift certificate with three menu choices and dates for your gift recipient to choose from and then bring dinner over on the agreed date (in disposable containers). You might want to make enough to stay and enjoy with them, or if cooking isn't your thing, a gift card to a favorite restaurant is always appreciated. 

Timely Tips #2 - Activity Gifts

The gift of an experience is a way to build relationships and meaningful memories. You can give a round of golf or create a certificate for a day-trip to the mountains or coast. It might be as simple as a movie and frozen yogurt date. The key is to set a date right away so the gift isn't lost in the busyness of life.

If kids or grandkids are on your list, consider age appropriate activities that you can do with them or give them certificates for their families to enjoy-- a membership to the zoo or aquarium, tickets to a sports event, or bowling.

A true gift of sacrifice is finding an activity that your spouse would love and then signing up both of you-- dance lessons, cooking classes, sports or concert tickets, etc. 

Timely Tips #3 - Gifts of Service

Lunch 'n Labor combines food and service! My sister and I gift to each other a day of service and lunch out. Over the years we have organized each others photos and recipes, cleaned light fixtures and a garden shed, arranged a bookshelf, and more. Those tasks are enjoyed much more when shared.

One memorable gift was when some friends came to our house while we were gone and planted flowers in our front yard. Think about something you enjoy doing and consider making that a gift for a friend or family member. It might be gardening, painting, computer help, music lessons, organizing, cooking, babysitting, or even decorating and un-decorating for Christmas!

Go to CreativeCertificates.com for free downloadable gift certificate templates.  

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Click on the angels for a beautiful gift of music by Pentatonix:

Merry Christmas!

 

Finishing What You Start

If you think marriage is easy, you're probably not married. This month we're celebrating my parents' 60th wedding anniversary. During this season of Thanksgiving, I think it's appropriate to express my gratitude for their 60 years of expressing love through commitment, affection, and sacrifice. No marriage is seamless, but I don't know anyone who has provided a better example to follow than the two of them. 

Today a prospective client called regarding a big project that she's tackled several times, but failed to complete. In inquiring about my services, she asked if I had tenacity. I know that for many of my clients, starting but stopping before completion is a common experience and an obstacle to a peaceful and productive environment. In honor of my parents I'd like to share what I've learned from them about tenacity and finishing what you start.

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TIMELY TIPS - Finishing what you start

1. Choose wisely before committing. Even though my parents didn't have a long engagement, they made sure that they were a match on the majors, like their faith and values. Whether you're considering marriage, employment, or a hobby project, make sure it's a good match for you. 

2. Establish a time-line. For my parents it's "till death do us part." If you have a project you're committing to, you probably want to consider a different time frame. Look realistically at the amount of time you have to invest, and the amount of time it will take and then come up with a completion date goal. 

3. Plan your steps. "First comes love, then comes marriage, then comes a baby in the baby carriage." That was the plan my parents followed. Without a plan the best of us get sidetracked from our projects and commitments. Besides, it can be overwhelming when you're looking at the whole thing instead of breaking it down into reasonable steps. 

4. Maintain balance. My parents volunteer at a local Elementary school reading program, work at a non-profit thrift store, sing in their church choir, and spend fun times with friends and family (including their twin great-granddaughters!). It's good to have some well-placed diversions from your project so you don't burn-out before you're finished.  

5. Share the load. Hospitality is hallmark at my parents' home and it wouldn't be possible without teamwork. Not all, but many projects and commitments are better shared. Consider who you might share yours with to make it more productive and enjoyable. 

6. Failure isn't the end. Like I said, my parents' relationship isn't perfect, but I never heard them consider their failures a reason to give up. Yes, there will be glitches in your project time-line and you may miss a goal, but it's an opportunity to learn and persevere, producing strength and the ability to empathize with others. 

7. Celebrate milestones. Whether it's a trip to Hawaii or a nice dinner out, acknowledging progress in their lifetime goal of marriage has been a standard for my parents. If you have a long-term project, create some short-term goals that you can celebrate along the way. Plan out your rewards and make sure to follow through when you accomplish your goals. 

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Wise Words

"If it's important to you, you will find a way. If not, you'll find an excuse." -Unknown

The Easy/Hard Way

The other day I went into my office to put some folders away. They belong in a bin on the top shelf of the closet. They didn't land there. I stuck them on a lower shelf so I wouldn't have to get the step stool. I blew off my "if it takes less than two minutes, do it now" mantra and rationalized that I was saving time and energy because I'd do it when I had more to put up there. But, will I remember those folders waiting below? Probably not. 
One of my clients calls this the Easy/Hard Way. It'seasy to put stuff where you can reach, or cram, or on the nearest flat surface, but it transforms to hard when later, you can't find it because it's not where it belongs, or it's buried under a pile.

Maybe you've taken the Easy/Hard route before. Today's Timely Tips offer some common scenarios and practical strategies to eliminate them. The Hard/Easy way may not be as hard as you think!

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TIMELY TIPS - Remedies for Easy/Hard scenarios 

Scenario #1 - The Car: Your kids are snacking while you drive them home from soccer. Everyone's tired and you choose not to add stress by making them clean up their car mess before going inside (easy). After a week of similar car trips, the car is trashed (hard). You lose your cool and yell at the kids for being such pigs... and then apologize (harder).

The Hard/Easy car scenario would look something like this. You purchase a car trash bin (not too hard). You explain and demonstrate to the family how to use it. You don't let them out of the car until all the trash is in the bin (kinda hard). You add "empty the car trash" to one of the kids' chore list with a regular routine and follow through with accountability (ok, that's hard). But, the next time you're picking up friends for a girls' night out, you get in the car and go-- without having to clean out the car first (easy)!

Scenario #2 - The Mail: You come in from work, fling the mail on the pile of papers on the counter and turn on the news (easy). A few nights and handfuls of mail later, you get company. The pile is shoved into a closet (easy). The next month, with the pile forgotten, you spend an hour looking for tickets you know were on the kitchen counter (hard). You receive two statements that include late fees for bills that were in the pile (hard). 

The Hard/Easy answer starts with processing the mail nightly (harder than watching TV, but not as hard as you might think!). Designate folders,  stacking trays, or wall pockets for bills to pay, events, and other papers that need some type of action. Discard or shred junk mail immediately. Now it's easy to find things and be prompt with your payments. Not to mention, your counter is always ready for company!

Scenario #3 - The Closet: You're in a hurry to change clothes and get to an event. You leave what you were wearing on the floor (easy). When you get home you're really tired so you kick your shoes into the closet and add the clothes to the pile (easy). The next day you do a load of laundry and dump the clean pile next to the dirty pile (easy). After a couple weeks like this, you can't find the shoes you want and have to reach over piles of dirty/clean clothes to get the the hung up clothes (hard). You buy another belt because yours has disappeared. 

The Hard/Easy way starts with timing how long it actually takes to hang up a pair of pants and a shirt. I bet you can do it in under 30 seconds! Now, decide that for one week, you're going to hang up or put in the dirty clothes hamper everything you wear. Now... follow through and do it (hard).  Do it for a second week (not as hard), and a third week (easier). By the end of the month you'll be enjoying the ease of walking into your closet and easily finding and reaching what you need!

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Wise Words

"Small targets lead to small victories, and small victories can often trigger a positive spiral of behavior." --Chip and Dan Heath

Fall Preparedness

September is National Preparedness Month. Normally this topic refers to getting prepared for emergencies and disasters.     That's a really good thing to do, but today I want to encourage a different type of preparedness. At our house when September hits I always say, "Christmas is around the corner!" That means it's not too early to begin preparing for the holidays (which hopefully, is quite unlike a disaster!).

I'm not referring to baking cookies and addressing Christmas cards. I'm suggesting creating a home environment that's ready for a busy season. It's kind of like Spring Cleaning, only it's Fall Preparedness! This way when you have less time for routine chores, and more stuff (decorations, food, gifts) and people coming into your home, you will be ready!

Check out the Timely Tips and choose an area to focus on each week in October. By November you'll be prepared and ready to focus on the fun stuff!

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TIMELY TIPS - Fall Preparedness 

1. Start in the kitchen. Remove everything from the fridge and freezer. Toss items that have been there too long and share items you know you'll never use. Wipe it down and return contents, grouping like items in drawers and on shelves so you'll easily see what you have and what you need.

2. Attack the paper pile. If your house is normal, you have a pile of papers sitting on the kitchen counter. Rather than dumping them in a bag when company is on its way, create homes now for bills to pay, catalogs, receipts, school papers, invitations, etc. Install labeled wall pockets, use stacking trays, or put them in folders in an open-topped container.

3. Clear the rest of the counter. Put away unused or rarely used items like bread makers, blenders, etc. making space on your counter for holiday baking and large cooking projects. Also do a quick purge of your cabinets, removing excess or unused dishes, glassware, mugs, and expired or unlikely to be used dry goods.

4. Survey the family room. Does it have the feel of an inviting place to have a cup of hot chocolate? I'm not talking about creating the resemblance of a model home, just remove the clutter (recycle, relocate, donate). Then, it will be ready for family times around the fireplace and tree.

5. Check the guest room. They often become a catch-all if not used regularly. Use the recycle, relocate, and donate strategy to get it in shape. Clear a spot in the closet for guests to use and for a designated holding place for Christmas gifts purchased ahead. If you can't open the guest room door at all right now-- it may be time to call me!

6. De-clutter the guest/hall bath. If the guest/hall bath is also your kids' bathroom, containerize the frequently used items normally stored on the countertop, and clear areas in the cabinet for the containers when not in use. Purge and clean the drawers, making sure there are supplies your guests might need. Let go of the towels no one uses and create sets of "guest-worthy" towels. 

7. Pick one area - kitchen, family room, guest room, and hall bath to focus on each week during October. If you're still stuck - call me. ( :

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Wise Words

"People who have fully prepared always save time. Albert Einstein was right to teach that if he is given six hours to chop down a tree, he would spend the first four sharpening the axes. When you are done with your action plans, work will be easier!"  -- Israelmore Ayivor

Is your family under a microscope?

Science was not my strong subject in high school. It probably didn't help that the new football coach got stuck teaching my biology class. It apparently wasn't his subject either! 

The one thing I remember is watching paramecia under a microscope. My friend and I would use the term, paramecium, when in tight places where we were bumping into people. Basically all paramecia do is swim around bumping into things, obviously not the most intelligent of life forms. But, according to a 2006 study, even paramecia are capable of being trained-- albeit through an electrical current. 

I'm certainly not advocating training families by that method, but I'm thinking that the idea of "trained paramecia" makes maintaining some organizational systems for back to school a viable reality!

If getting your family out the door for school resembles a petrie dish of jumbled cells, try some of these Timely Tips for back to school organizing.

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TIMELY TIPS - School days the organized way! 

1. Get enough sleep. The more I read about productivity, the more I hear about how essential sleep is. Establish a reasonable bedtime for everyone-- including yourself!

2. Night before prep. The night before, have everyone pack whatever needs to go out the door in the morning. Even lunches can be assembled and refrigerated for the next day. 

3. Establish a morning routine. Create a list of everything that needs to be done on school-day mornings. Calculate how much time each action takes. Add that up and then add at least 15 minutes. Back that up from the time you need to leave the house to determine an appropriate wake-up time. Now put the action list with a time schedule in order (6:30 am - wake up, 6:35 - shower, 6:45 - get dressed, 7:00 - eat breakfast, etc.) Create a chart for each family member (use pictures for young ones). FamilyEducation.com has a Morning Routine Checklist to help get you started.

4. Designate In 'n Out spots. Place a book shelf near the door with labeled or colored containers (dishpans work), for each person in the family to use for incoming and outgoing items (library books, sports uniforms, etc). Cube storage, or units like this one from Bed Bath & Beyond also work.  

5. System for paperwork. Label a "Parent" folder for each of your kids' backpacks. Whenever they receive a permission slip, newsletter, etc. they place it in the Parent folder and then into a designated "In" tray at home. From there, it's your job to make sure things are signed and placed in the "Out" tray for your child to put back when packing the backpack for the next day. 

6. Use a Family Calendar. If you prefer using a calendar on your phone, use Google Calendar or something like Cozi.com that each family member can sync to. Or, have a family calendar posted on the wall where everyone can see what's going on and add to it. This helps eliminate double-booking.

7. Establish Family Meetings. Start the week with some designated time together. Talk about the upcoming schedule, discuss new things you want to establish (like the morning routine), encourage one another, and give opportunity for working out problems. For more ideas see Family Meetings by Dr. Jane Nelsen.

8. Balance after-school activity. If sports, music, dance, gymnastics is keeping your family running everyday till dinner-time and beyond, consider allowing everyone a limited number of activities, so that you can balance it with some down-time at home as well. 

9. Monitor TV/Game time. Establish ground rules for when and how much time kids can spend on TV or computer games.  OrganizingHomeLife.com offers agreat Limiting TV time with Tokens system. 

10. Determine to listen. Decide ahead of time to spend the first after-school moments listening to your kids. Whether it's turning off the radio or phone in the car, or sitting down at the kitchen table together with a snack when they walk in the door, be in the moment with them. You won't regret it!

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Wise Words

"Parenting is not about being popular and giving in to every child's whim and desire. It's about making decisions that are truly win-win-- however they may appear to the child at the time."

-Stephen R. Covey

Link it!

Jonah linked with Seena - seated with Candice (1984)

Shortly after getting married we started our "family" of assorted dogs and cats (a little later came the kids). Among our pets were Jonah, a German Shepherd mix, and Seena, a beautiful blue-eyed Siberian Husky. Seena turned out to be a runner. She would slip through when a door or gate was left open and take off. We felt bad leaving her in the back yard when the rest of the family was spending time in the front so Scott came up with a plan. He took a short chain and connected Seen's collar to Jonah's. Now, linked to the dog we could trust, Seena stayed where she belonged. 

   This week I realized one of my to-dos had slipped through the cracks. I write a monthly column for the Ranchos Independent and I missed my deadline. I had failed to link my to-do to a trusted system. 

   Without a link to a trusted system, our minds are continually trying to recollect what needs to be done, while constantly adding new things. Sound stressful? Yes, it is! Not only does it stress us, it stresses those affected by what we forget to do.

Fortunately, my editor was patient and accepted my late entry. I made sure to "link it" for future articles, so I wouldn't miss another one! Here are some Timely Tips for linking your to-dos to a trusted system. 

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TIMELY TIPS - Link your to-dos and get things done!

First containerize your to-dos. If you're very connected to your phone, this might be the best place for your to-do list. Some of the current apps for that include Todoist, Any.do, and Wunderlist. These allow you to create lists, reminders, and sync your list with others.

Evernote and OneNote are two other popular apps that keep to-do lists, and more. If you prefer the paper mode, a spiral notebook with dividers for categories is a good place to store your lists. 

Now, link them! Link your to-dos to specific days/times on your calendar just like you would record a dentist appointment. Hopefully your calendar is a trusted system for keeping you on track with where to be and when. By expanding its use to include specific to-dos each day, you can be more productive and keep things from slipping through the cracks. 

If you must record dates and to-dos on napkins, backs of envelopes, and scraps of paper, have one place where they gather and transfer them to your trusted system as soon as possible!

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Wise Words

"Your mind is for having ideas, not holding them."  -David Allen