I get lots of emails, comments, and questions from readers and clients asking what type of storage containers they should buy for their organizing project. Now, you all know I LOVE fun storage containers, however, my answer to this question is… “Don’t by ANY storage containers until your project is finished.” Sorry if that upsets …
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I’m Checking my Email Less
Have you ever sat down to “quickly” check your e-mail, and 2 hours later, realized you were still sitting there? Join the club! Maybe it’s because I have a lot going on {which is great}. Maybe it’s because the Fall is my busiest time of year {also great}. Or maybe it’s because when I see …
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Benefits of a Family Closet
Lately, I’ve been reading a lot about family closets as a great way to stay a bit more organized and to simplify the laundry routine. Since I don’t have any children, we really have no need for a family closet, but the whole concept is pretty amazing — and I honestly can’t believe I hadn’t …
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Save Money with a Well-Stocked Pantry
I have saved a lot of money over the years by keeping a well-stocked pantry and freezer; I learned this trick from my mom! I usually spend less than $20.00 per week on groceries; but you would never guess that by the amount of food we have around here! I also save a lot of time …
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Oreo Truffles
If I had to pick my FAVORITE store-bought cookie, chocolate Oreos would win every time. They are the best for dunking in a cold glass of milk! {Chocolate chip oatmeal are my favorite homemade cookies…in case you were wondering!} Anyway, when I found a recipe for Oreo Truffles, I knew they would get rave reviews — …
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Creative Storage Ideas
I’m all about functional storage — it needs to be practical; but I also want it to look nice. That’s reasonable, right? While I don’t pride myself in being the most creative gal around, I am extremely motivated when it comes to clearing the clutter in my home, and I’ve managed to come up with a …
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I’ve Been Busy!
Ten Tips for Using Craigslist
Have you ever purchased or sold anything on Craigslist? If not, let me fill you in on what you’re missing. It’s like the ultimate online garage sale! Here’s my latest purchase — just bought it today! A nearly new IKEA couch, slipcover and ottoman for $250. I have used Craigslist extensively for the past 2 years. I’ve purchase …
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30th Anniversary Gift
Last weekend, my husband and I celebrated his parents 30th wedding anniversary. It happened to be the same day as our nephew’s {and their grandson’s} baptism so we didn’t have anything huge planned; just an afternoon together as a family. Dave and I wanted to come up with a creative and fun gift {since they …
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School Lunch Inspiration
I started packing my own lunches back in 5th grade. My mom would have done it for me, but I was too stubborn, head-strong, and organized to let her. Fifteen years later, I’m still packing lunches — and I’m still stubborn, head-strong, and organized! Lunch packing definitely is not one of my all-time favorite activities; it can be …
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DIY Paper Wreath
Yesterday I posted about different ways to turn paper clutter into creative gift wrap. Today, I have another super creative idea for your paper clutter — courtesy of Ashley at Give Me the Simple Life. This DIY Paper Wreath! Ashley has an amzaing blog that features all sorts of “simple living” ideas, crafts, projects, etc…so I’m …
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Paper Clutter or Creative Gift Wrap?
School is here…which means every flat surface in your home is about to be inundated with loads of homework assignments, art projects, home notes, tests, report cards, etc. etc. Add these to your already heaping piles of newspapers, junk mail, and magazines and you’ve got issues! As much as you might want to go paperless, it’s inevitable …
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Simple Roasted Chicken
About two months ago, I met a lovely woman who — on top of being an amazing wife, a wonderful mother to 4 young boys, a homeschool teacher, and an exceptional chef — also happened to raise organic chickens! She is one busy lady, so she hired me to create a little more organization in her life…and …
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Ten Favorite Organizing Tools
Photo Credit: Simplify 101 I am often asked what my favorite organizing tools are…and let’s face it, there are SO many great tools to pick from! And since I’m a total organizing junkie, I thrive on finding the right tools for each of my clients! By faithfully using a few of my favorite tools, I’m …
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Back-to-School Routines
School is right around the corner — like I need to remind you! Are you ready? Making the transition from lazy summer days to structured school days can be tough for many children…and adults! Here are some tips to help you get back in a routine and make the transition easier on you and your …
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Seasonal Changes
It is still SO hot and muggy in West Michigan…however Fall is almost here. I can feel it, I can smell it — I can’t wait! I’m ready for cooler temperatures, more rain, and the structure provided by my Fall routines. I’m ready to get out my Fall decorations, roast a bunch of meat, make …
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Great Zucchini and Squash Recipes
I’ve been getting creative with zucchini and summer squash this week. Partially because there are so many great recipes out there — but mostly because we’ve been picking about 3 squash per plant {per day}!!! I’ve got a lot of squash on my hands {and on my counters, in my fridge, in the freezer, in the garden, …
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Chocolate Zucchini Brownies
I’ve had zucchini and squash on my brain lately — probably because they are coming out of my ears over here. I only planted one zucchini and one summer squash but they have completely taken over our garden. It’s scary! This past weekend, I had a zucchini / squash “bake-a-thon” that produced 10 loaves of …
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