tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-76401812614581379992023-11-16T04:53:16.918-08:00Organizing Tips from Orderly PlacesOrganizing tips for finding more hours in your day
and space in your home and office.Mary Frances Ballardhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/09894098982869484191noreply@blogger.comBlogger75125tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7640181261458137999.post-29076138073804430102015-05-02T11:22:00.004-07:002015-05-02T11:22:59.139-07:00New Site for Organizing Tips<span style="font-size: large;"><strong>This blog site has now been combined with Organizing Tips for This Month. To access it, simply click on the link below.</strong></span><br />
<span style="font-size: large;"><strong></strong></span><br />
<a href="http://www.organizingtipsfortoday.blogspot.com/"><span style="font-size: large;"><strong>http://www.organizingtipsfortoday.blogspot.com/</strong></span></a><br />
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Mary Frances Ballardhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/09894098982869484191noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7640181261458137999.post-54096010342687080602013-10-01T07:57:00.003-07:002013-10-01T07:57:41.570-07:00Organizing Tips for October<div align="center">
<img class="rg_i" data-src="https://encrypted-tbn2.gstatic.com/images?q=tbn:ANd9GcR2fycQ_ZHMTeLitJ30yheHjjhfyDniHmmT4SbEVSyaNccjQkvfsw" data-sz="f" name="qA9y8iHrlRJvBM:" src="https://encrypted-tbn2.gstatic.com/images?q=tbn:ANd9GcR2fycQ_ZHMTeLitJ30yheHjjhfyDniHmmT4SbEVSyaNccjQkvfsw" style="height: 186px; margin-left: 0px; margin-right: 0px; margin-top: 0px; width: 260px;" /></div>
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Fall is officially here.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;">
</span>In some parts of our country the weather may not show it, but it is time
to get moving towards the season filled with decorating and entertaining.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span></div>
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Buy your Christmas Cards now while selection is best and
send out “Save the Date” cards for any holiday events you plan.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>Update your calendar with all the special
fall events taking place, put out your fall décor and get your yard ready for
falling leaves.</div>
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This month we will concentrate on getting the dining room
and/or eating areas organized and ready for holiday entertainment.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span></div>
<ul style="margin-top: 0in;" type="disc">
<li class="MsoNormal" style="margin: 0in 0in 0pt; mso-list: l2 level1 lfo3; tab-stops: list .5in;">If you
have a dining room that is not used often, the table can become a dumping
ground for items put there temporarily.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;">
</span>What starts out as the mail mutates into miscellaneous things
coming into the<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>house.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>Start today to make it off limits for
the temporary put down.</li>
<li class="MsoNormal" style="margin: 0in 0in 0pt; mso-list: l2 level1 lfo3; tab-stops: list .5in;">Inventory
your linens and purge what you haven’t used in years.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>If some hold sentimental value, see if
someone in your family can use them and give them the honor they deserve.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>If some are in need of repair, make the
decision to take care of that or to move them on.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>Remember removing those that you do not
use will make more space for those that you love and use.</li>
<li class="MsoNormal" style="margin: 0in 0in 0pt; mso-list: l2 level1 lfo3; tab-stops: list .5in;">Look
over your dinnerware and remove pieces that cannot be used because of
chips or other damage. <span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>If there are
odd pieces that cannot be used with other items, move them out, too.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>Complete sets that are stored in boxes
and never opened should be sold, donated or given to someone who wants
them.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span><span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>As with your linens, move on pieces that
are simply taking up space.</li>
<li class="MsoNormal" style="margin: 0in 0in 0pt; mso-list: l3 level1 lfo2; tab-stops: list .5in; text-align: justify;">Provide adequate seating for all those eating
together.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>Folding chairs can be
used and stored in a closet or other storage area afterwards.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>Wooden posts located on the wall of the
garage can be used to hang them so they do not take up floor space.</li>
<li class="MsoNormal" style="margin: 0in 0in 0pt; mso-list: l3 level1 lfo2; tab-stops: list .5in; text-align: justify;">Cloth or paper napkins can be placed in an attractive
basket, bowl or tray and serve as a centerpiece.</li>
<li class="MsoNormal" style="margin: 0in 0in 0pt; mso-list: l3 level1 lfo2; tab-stops: list .5in; text-align: justify;">Placemats are more versatile to use than tablecloths
and can be left on the table as decorations or stacked in the center with
a napkin basket. </li>
<li class="MsoNormal" style="margin: 0in 0in 0pt; mso-list: l3 level1 lfo2; tab-stops: list .5in; text-align: justify;">Dinnerware, flatware and serving pieces should be
located in an area convenient to setting the table and replacing after
clean up.</li>
<li class="MsoNormal" style="margin: 0in 0in 0pt; mso-list: l3 level1 lfo2; tab-stops: list .5in; text-align: justify;">Special occasion or seasonal dinnerware or silverware
should be kept only if used and you have sufficient space for it.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>.</li>
<li class="MsoNormal" style="margin: 0in 0in 0pt; mso-list: l3 level1 lfo2; tab-stops: list .5in; text-align: justify;">Table cloths can be stored in shallow drawers or hung
over a dowel or hanger covered with the empty roll from wrapping paper or
paper towels.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>Slit the roll on one
side and slip it over the rod.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>Hang
it in a closet.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>This will prevent
additional wrinkles.</li>
<li class="MsoNormal" style="margin: 0in 0in 0pt; mso-list: l3 level1 lfo2; tab-stops: list .5in; text-align: justify;">Additional linens can be stored in the drawers or
shelves of dining room furniture such as chests or buffets.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>You may also use a linen closet if one
exists.</li>
<li class="MsoNormal" style="margin: 0in 0in 0pt; mso-list: l3 level1 lfo2; tab-stops: list .5in; text-align: justify;">Consider placing a clothing chest with drawers in the
dining room if no longer needed for clothing.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>It is ideal for linens.</li>
</ul>
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<b style="mso-bidi-font-weight: normal;">Additional Activities to make the dining room more functional</b></div>
<ul style="margin-top: 0in;" type="disc">
<li class="MsoNormal" style="margin: 0in 0in 0pt; mso-list: l1 level1 lfo4; tab-stops: list .5in; text-align: justify;">The dining table may be a good choice for homework if
the room is good for studying.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>A
tote with desk supplies may be used and then stored when the work is done.</li>
<li class="MsoNormal" style="margin: 0in 0in 0pt; mso-list: l1 level1 lfo4; tab-stops: list .5in; text-align: justify;">It may also used for craft projects or other art
activities.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>Cover the table with a
protective cloth, cutting board or plastic before using it. Portable
storage for those supplies make it easier to clean the area when done.</li>
<li class="MsoNormal" style="margin: 0in 0in 0pt; mso-list: l3 level1 lfo2; tab-stops: list .5in; text-align: justify;">If the family needs home office space, reserving a
corner of the dining room for that activity is a good use of space.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>Choose a table or desk that compliments
the other furnishings.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>Some items
can be stored in the furniture already there or in rolling carts and file
trolleys that can be moved to a nearby closet when not in use.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span></li>
<li class="MsoNormal" style="margin: 0in 0in 0pt; mso-list: l3 level1 lfo2; tab-stops: list .5in; text-align: justify;">If there is not space in the family room for board
games and card playing, those items could be stored in the dining room for
use there..</li>
<li class="MsoNormal" style="margin: 0in 0in 0pt; mso-list: l3 level1 lfo2; tab-stops: list .5in; text-align: justify;">When not used, keep the tops of buffets, chests and
china cabinets clear and free of clutter..</li>
<li class="MsoNormal" style="margin: 0in 0in 0pt; mso-list: l3 level1 lfo2; tab-stops: list .5in; text-align: justify;">Keep the table attractive when not used with a
centerpiece and/or tablecloth.</li>
<li class="MsoNormal" style="margin: 0in 0in 0pt; mso-list: l3 level1 lfo2; tab-stops: list .5in; text-align: justify;">Use washable decorative fabrics on surfaces to reduce
the amount of dusting.</li>
</ul>
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<b style="mso-bidi-font-weight: normal;"><span style="color: #333333;">The end of the month also brings Halloween
and the Trick or Treat invaders.</span></b></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="margin: 0in 0in 0pt 0.75in; mso-list: l0 level1 lfo1; tab-stops: list .75in; text-indent: -0.25in;">
<!--[if !supportLists]--><span style="font-family: Symbol; mso-bidi-font-family: Symbol; mso-fareast-font-family: Symbol;"><span style="mso-list: Ignore;">·<span style="font-size-adjust: none; font-stretch: normal; font: 7pt/normal "Times New Roman";">
</span></span></span><!--[endif]--><span style="color: #333333;"><span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>First you want to be sure the pathway to your
door is safe. Remember to clean the driveway, sidewalk, steps and porch while
it is still daylight. Fallen leaves can be slippery especially whe<st1:personname w:st="on">n w</st1:personname>et so they should be removed as well as any toys,
twigs, etc. Make sure this area is well lit by leaving your porch light and any
other light fixtures on during the Trick or Treat hours. </span></div>
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<span style="color: #333333;"></span><span style="font-family: Symbol; mso-bidi-font-family: Symbol; mso-fareast-font-family: Symbol;"><span style="mso-list: Ignore;">·<span style="font-size-adjust: none; font-stretch: normal; font: 7pt/normal "Times New Roman";">
</span></span></span><!--[endif]--><span style="color: #333333;">It is recommended
that you give only individually pre-wrapped candy. Since this is the beginning
of flu season, you should <strong>not </strong>allow each child to reach into
your container to get the candy since each one could be contaminating the other
pieces with his hands. Rather, you should choose and drop the candy into each
child's bag yourself. </span></div>
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<!--[if !supportLists]--><span style="font-family: Symbol; mso-bidi-font-family: Symbol; mso-fareast-font-family: Symbol;"><span style="mso-list: Ignore;">·<span style="font-size-adjust: none; font-stretch: normal; font: 7pt/normal "Times New Roman";">
</span></span></span><!--[endif]--><span style="color: #333333;">As an extra
precaution, you may want to use disinfecting wipes to clean your doorbell or
door handles if you keep it closed between visitors. This can be done
periodically during the evening or at the end when Trick or Treating is over. Keep
hand sanitizer near the door and use it yourself as often as you think
necessary.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>It is a shame we need to be
so careful, but it is always better to be safe than sorry and we want to do our
part in keeping our homes and neighbors as healthy and safe as possible.</span></div>
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If you have the splendor of seeing the leaves changing
colors in the fall, get out and enjoy it as much as you can.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>It is one of the most beautiful times of the
year.</div>
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Mary Frances Ballardhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/09894098982869484191noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7640181261458137999.post-63878651492673117182013-09-11T07:57:00.002-07:002013-09-11T07:57:48.052-07:00Organizing Tips for September<br />
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This month marks a shift in the thinking and planning for many of us.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>Summer vacations are behind us, we look forward to cooler temperatures and we plan for the upcoming holidays.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>Below are some strategies to help us make in organizing <b style="mso-bidi-font-weight: normal;">clothing, bedrooms and closets</b>.</div>
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Most of us have attachments to our clothing, especially those that were expensive.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>I have had great success with a local <b style="mso-bidi-font-weight: normal;">consignment store</b> and recommend them.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>It is less hassle than a yard sale and you will get some return on your financial investment.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span></div>
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Of course, I also recommend <b style="mso-bidi-font-weight: normal;">donating</b> to worthy charities.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>Not only will you make your space more livable, but you will be helping those who simply cannot afford purchasing clothing otherwise.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>It will be a double blessing!</div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="margin: 0in 0in 0pt 27pt; mso-list: l0 level1 lfo1; tab-stops: list 27.0pt; text-indent: -0.25in;">
<!--[if !supportLists]--><span style="font-family: "Courier New"; mso-fareast-font-family: "Courier New";"><span style="mso-list: Ignore;">o<span style="font-size-adjust: none; font-stretch: normal; font: 7pt/normal "Times New Roman";"> </span></span></span><!--[endif]-->In the closet, remove all empty hangers first.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>Look at each piece of clothing and make a decision to sort as follows:</div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="margin: 0in 0in 0pt 1in; mso-list: l0 level2 lfo1; tab-stops: list 1.0in; text-indent: -0.25in;">
<!--[if !supportLists]--><span style="font-family: "Courier New"; mso-fareast-font-family: "Courier New";"><span style="mso-list: Ignore;">o<span style="font-size-adjust: none; font-stretch: normal; font: 7pt/normal "Times New Roman";"> </span></span></span><!--[endif]--><b style="mso-bidi-font-weight: normal;">It fits, I wear it</b>—leave it in the closet </div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="margin: 0in 0in 0pt 1in; mso-list: l0 level2 lfo1; tab-stops: list 1.0in; text-indent: -0.25in;">
<!--[if !supportLists]--><span style="font-family: "Courier New"; mso-fareast-font-family: "Courier New";"><span style="mso-list: Ignore;">o<span style="font-size-adjust: none; font-stretch: normal; font: 7pt/normal "Times New Roman";"> </span></span></span><!--[endif]--><b style="mso-bidi-font-weight: normal;">It does not fit</b>—donate/sell pile.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>It will probably be out of style when it does fit.</div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="margin: 0in 0in 0pt 1in; mso-list: l0 level2 lfo1; tab-stops: list 1.0in; text-indent: -0.25in;">
<!--[if !supportLists]--><span style="font-family: "Courier New"; mso-fareast-font-family: "Courier New";"><span style="mso-list: Ignore;">o<span style="font-size-adjust: none; font-stretch: normal; font: 7pt/normal "Times New Roman";"> </span></span></span><!--[endif]--><b style="mso-bidi-font-weight: normal;">It needs repair</b>--if it is useful, place in a repair pile.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>If not repaired in one month, remove it.</div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="margin: 0in 0in 0pt 1in; mso-list: l0 level2 lfo1; tab-stops: list 1.0in; text-indent: -0.25in;">
<!--[if !supportLists]--><span style="font-family: "Courier New"; mso-fareast-font-family: "Courier New";"><span style="mso-list: Ignore;">o<span style="font-size-adjust: none; font-stretch: normal; font: 7pt/normal "Times New Roman";"> </span></span></span><!--[endif]--><b style="mso-bidi-font-weight: normal;">I do not wear it or like it</b>—donate/sell pile</div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="margin: 0in 0in 0pt 1in; mso-list: l0 level2 lfo1; tab-stops: list 1.0in; text-indent: -0.25in;">
<!--[if !supportLists]--><span style="font-family: "Courier New"; mso-fareast-font-family: "Courier New";"><span style="mso-list: Ignore;">o<span style="font-size-adjust: none; font-stretch: normal; font: 7pt/normal "Times New Roman";"> </span></span></span><!--[endif]--><b style="mso-bidi-font-weight: normal;">I am not sure</b>--place in separate pile, label and date.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>If not worn in one year, donate/sell.</div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="margin: 0in 0in 0pt 27pt; mso-list: l0 level1 lfo1; tab-stops: list 27.0pt; text-indent: -0.25in;">
<!--[if !supportLists]--><span style="font-family: "Courier New"; mso-fareast-font-family: "Courier New";"><span style="mso-list: Ignore;">o<span style="font-size-adjust: none; font-stretch: normal; font: 7pt/normal "Times New Roman";"> </span></span></span><!--[endif]-->Clean the closet area, and reconfigure the rods, shelves if needed or desired.</div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="margin: 0in 0in 0pt 27pt; mso-list: l0 level1 lfo1; tab-stops: list 27.0pt; text-indent: -0.25in;">
<!--[if !supportLists]--><span style="font-family: "Courier New"; mso-fareast-font-family: "Courier New";"><span style="mso-list: Ignore;">o<span style="font-size-adjust: none; font-stretch: normal; font: 7pt/normal "Times New Roman";"> </span></span></span><!--[endif]-->Additional hanging space can be made by installing an adjustable hanging rod.</div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="margin: 0in 0in 0pt 27pt; mso-list: l0 level1 lfo1; tab-stops: list 27.0pt; text-indent: -0.25in;">
<!--[if !supportLists]--><span style="font-family: "Courier New"; mso-fareast-font-family: "Courier New";"><span style="mso-list: Ignore;">o<span style="font-size-adjust: none; font-stretch: normal; font: 7pt/normal "Times New Roman";"> </span></span></span><!--[endif]-->Replace wire hangers with more suitable ones but save a few if needed in garment bags when traveling. <span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>Orderly Places has a tip sheet on types of closet hangers.</div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="margin: 0in 0in 0pt 27pt; mso-list: l0 level1 lfo1; tab-stops: list 27.0pt; text-indent: -0.25in;">
<!--[if !supportLists]--><span style="font-family: "Courier New"; mso-fareast-font-family: "Courier New";"><span style="mso-list: Ignore;">o<span style="font-size-adjust: none; font-stretch: normal; font: 7pt/normal "Times New Roman";"> </span></span></span><!--[endif]-->On closet shelves, clamp on dividers can be used to separate clothing or they can be placed in suitable containers.</div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="margin: 0in 0in 0pt 27pt; mso-list: l0 level1 lfo1; tab-stops: list 27.0pt; text-indent: -0.25in;">
<!--[if !supportLists]--><span style="font-family: "Courier New"; mso-fareast-font-family: "Courier New";"><span style="mso-list: Ignore;">o<span style="font-size-adjust: none; font-stretch: normal; font: 7pt/normal "Times New Roman";"> </span></span></span><!--[endif]-->Use hanging racks for the backs of doors or on rods to store bulky or specialty items.</div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="margin: 0in 0in 0pt 27pt; mso-list: l0 level1 lfo1; tab-stops: list 27.0pt; text-indent: -0.25in;">
<!--[if !supportLists]--><span style="font-family: "Courier New"; mso-fareast-font-family: "Courier New";"><span style="mso-list: Ignore;">o<span style="font-size-adjust: none; font-stretch: normal; font: 7pt/normal "Times New Roman";"> </span></span></span><!--[endif]-->As you return items, sort the clothes you will wear and keep by type-blouses, pants, dresses, skirts, etc. Sub sort these by colors as much as possible.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>Place items worn together with each other.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>This makes it easier to know what you have and find items easier.</div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="margin: 0in 0in 0pt 27pt; mso-list: l0 level1 lfo1; tab-stops: list 27.0pt; text-indent: -0.25in;">
<!--[if !supportLists]--><span style="font-family: "Courier New"; mso-fareast-font-family: "Courier New";"><span style="mso-list: Ignore;">o<span style="font-size-adjust: none; font-stretch: normal; font: 7pt/normal "Times New Roman";"> </span></span></span><!--[endif]-->Look at what you have and make a list of items you really need but are not there for future purchases.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span><b style="mso-bidi-font-weight: normal;">Determine to buy only what is on your list. </b><span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>One suggestion is to limit the number of prints and multi color designs and use mainly solids.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>This allows more flexibility in creating outfits and using accessories.</div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="margin: 0in 0in 0pt 27pt; mso-list: l0 level1 lfo1; tab-stops: list 27.0pt; text-indent: -0.25in;">
<!--[if !supportLists]--><span style="font-family: "Courier New"; mso-fareast-font-family: "Courier New";"><span style="mso-list: Ignore;">o<span style="font-size-adjust: none; font-stretch: normal; font: 7pt/normal "Times New Roman";"> </span></span></span><!--[endif]-->Clothing in drawers or chests or on shelving should be organized with the same process as with closets.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>Use dividers or containers to separate categories, colors, etc. in the drawers.</div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="margin: 0in 0in 0pt 27pt; mso-list: l0 level1 lfo1; tab-stops: list 27.0pt; text-indent: -0.25in;">
<!--[if !supportLists]--><span style="font-family: "Courier New"; mso-fareast-font-family: "Courier New";"><span style="mso-list: Ignore;">o<span style="font-size-adjust: none; font-stretch: normal; font: 7pt/normal "Times New Roman";"> </span></span></span><!--[endif]-->Some clothing can be rolled rather than folded to make sorting and access easier.</div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="margin: 0in 0in 0pt 27pt; mso-list: l0 level1 lfo1; tab-stops: list 27.0pt; text-indent: -0.25in;">
<!--[if !supportLists]--><span style="font-family: "Courier New"; mso-fareast-font-family: "Courier New";"><span style="mso-list: Ignore;">o<span style="font-size-adjust: none; font-stretch: normal; font: 7pt/normal "Times New Roman";"> </span></span></span><!--[endif]-->Shoes can be stored on hanging sorters or under shorter clothing in racks or shelves.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>If they are stored in boxes, use clear plastic or label with pictures or descriptions.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>I also recommend sturdy under the bed containers for off season shoes.</div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="margin: 0in 0in 0pt 27pt; mso-list: l0 level1 lfo1; tab-stops: list 27.0pt; text-indent: -0.25in;">
<!--[if !supportLists]--><span style="font-family: "Courier New"; mso-fareast-font-family: "Courier New";"><span style="mso-list: Ignore;">o<span style="font-size-adjust: none; font-stretch: normal; font: 7pt/normal "Times New Roman";"> </span></span></span><!--[endif]-->Evaluate the accessories you have to determine if they are still usable.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>I had quite a collection of scarves back when Oprah made them popular and finally gave them up after taking my own advice.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>If they ever make a comeback, they will be different, I am sure.</div>
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<b style="mso-bidi-font-weight: normal;">Additional unrelated tips:</b></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="margin: 0in 0in 0pt 9pt;">
In the next month or so, stock up on cold and flu products.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>It is often difficult to find those you prefer when they are needed most.</div>
<br />
<div class="MsoNormal" style="margin: 0in 0in 0pt 9pt;">
This is a good time to purchase a calendar/planner if you use the write in type.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>I prefer one that shows a week at a glance with the days divided into hourly spaces.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>This is one of the best ways to schedule, plan and use time to the greatest use since you can see available hours in each day.</div>
<br />
<div class="MsoNormal" style="margin: 0in 0in 0pt 9pt;">
As much as I hate it, now is the time to plan for the holidays.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>Pencil in some activities, gifts, meals, etc. in your planner.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>More tips will follow in the months to come.</div>
Mary Frances Ballardhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/09894098982869484191noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7640181261458137999.post-22781303383481339312013-08-01T05:06:00.002-07:002013-08-01T05:06:26.701-07:00Organizing Tips for August<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi1WSkx0SW8UN12VAlTth-qm-i7vncPmAi5MIaWrI6BqiSOQ__d9X4acigAvdmtRHtC47Ytpl7NNMBY3ezvtSg8qjQEhyphenhyphenm8YR5U9YLlgpP9m0xmT6HQg4XFNeXdI4KPQWsEaElKXhBip3WK/s1600/kids+storage+bins.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="200" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi1WSkx0SW8UN12VAlTth-qm-i7vncPmAi5MIaWrI6BqiSOQ__d9X4acigAvdmtRHtC47Ytpl7NNMBY3ezvtSg8qjQEhyphenhyphenm8YR5U9YLlgpP9m0xmT6HQg4XFNeXdI4KPQWsEaElKXhBip3WK/s200/kids+storage+bins.jpg" width="200" /></a></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="margin: 0in 0in 0pt 0.25in; text-align: justify;">
</div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="margin: 0in 0in 0pt 0.25in; text-align: justify;">
This month we are concentrating our organizing on Toys and Electronics</div>
<br />
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But first:</div>
<br />
<div class="MsoNormal" style="margin: 0in 0in 0pt 0.25in; text-align: justify;">
Back to School items are now on sale and families are getting kids ready for a new year at college or school.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>Take advantage of great bargains on those supplies not just for the kids but for you home and office, etc.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>In <st1:state w:st="on"><st1:place w:st="on">Virginia</st1:place></st1:state> we also have a tax free weekend the first weekend of August on many of those items.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span></div>
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With that in mind, we need to make space for new items.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>Here are some tips to guide you along the way.</div>
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Children’s Toys</div>
<br />
<ul style="margin-top: 0in;" type="disc">
<li class="MsoNormal" style="margin: 0in 0in 0pt; mso-list: l0 level1 lfo1; tab-stops: list .5in; text-align: justify;">Children learn from their toys but there should be limits on how many they own and how many they can have out at one time.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>Decide what that will be ahead of time and stick to it.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>Encourage relatives and friends to give clutter free gifts to your children.</li>
<li class="MsoNormal" style="margin: 0in 0in 0pt; mso-list: l0 level1 lfo1; tab-stops: list .5in; text-align: justify;">Toys should be more difficult to get out than put away.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>Books that are stored upright on a shelf are easy to pull out and more difficult to put back in order.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>A better choice would be a dishpan, bucket or basket that makes the child look for the book he wants but will be easy for him to drop it back i<st1:personname w:st="on">n w</st1:personname>hen he is done with it.</li>
<li class="MsoNormal" style="margin: 0in 0in 0pt; mso-list: l0 level1 lfo1; tab-stops: list .5in; text-align: justify;">Depending on the age of the child, most toys should be kept in open bins arranged in cubes or shelves and labeled so that clean up easy.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>Picture labels can be used for toddlers and large word labels for children learning to read.</li>
<li class="MsoNormal" style="margin: 0in 0in 0pt; mso-list: l0 level1 lfo1; tab-stops: list .5in; text-align: justify;">Some special toys or games can be stored on a higher shelf where only a parent can reach it as a reward or incentive for cooperation, responsibility, etc. </li>
<li class="MsoNormal" style="margin: 0in 0in 0pt; mso-list: l0 level1 lfo1; tab-stops: list .5in; text-align: justify;">Hanging pockets and plastic stacking drawers are good choices for small toys such as doll clothes, matchbox cars or train pieces.</li>
<li class="MsoNormal" style="margin: 0in 0in 0pt; mso-list: l0 level1 lfo1; tab-stops: list .5in; text-align: justify;">Puzzles should be kept in their original box.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>The corners may need to be reinforced with clear tape.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>Another choice is zip lock bags with the picture included.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>Color code the backs of the pieces for each puzzle with markers or crayons. Then the correct pieces can be returned to the proper box if more than one puzzle is out at a time. </li>
<li class="MsoNormal" style="margin: 0in 0in 0pt; mso-list: l0 level1 lfo1; tab-stops: list .5in;">Other storage options are over the window shelving to display some collectible toys, corner nets to hold stuffed animals and totes o<st1:personname w:st="on">n w</st1:personname>heels to transport toys that can be taken to other rooms temporarily and under the bed roll out containers or drawers.</li>
</ul>
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<div class="MsoNormal" style="margin: 0in 0in 0pt;">
Electronics</div>
<span style="mso-tab-count: 1;"> </span>Most families have electronic gadgets all over the house.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>We even take our cell phones with us out of the house.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>Here are some tips to help manage and organize <span style="mso-tab-count: 1;"> </span>those.<br />
<br />
<ul style="margin-top: 0in;" type="disc">
<li class="MsoNormal" style="margin: 0in 0in 0pt; mso-list: l1 level1 lfo2; tab-stops: list .5in;">Label each end of cables and cords that they use.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>A label maker or write on tape can be used to place the name of the electronic.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>This makes it easy to identify when many cables are attached to power strips or if they are stored together when not in use.</li>
<li class="MsoNormal" style="margin: 0in 0in 0pt; mso-list: l1 level1 lfo2; tab-stops: list .5in;">Donate unused electronics with their cables, power cords, etc.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>Best Buy and other stores will give you a receipt for tax donations purposes.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>If you are concerned about privacy, have the in-store geeks clean them while you watch.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>If you can locate and identify the storage disk in them and know how to remove the data, you can do that yourself before donations.</li>
<li class="MsoNormal" style="margin: 0in 0in 0pt; mso-list: l1 level1 lfo2; tab-stops: list .5in;">Resist the urge to have the latest and greatest technology.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>In a few months it will be replace by yet another upgrade.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>Try waiting until your current gadget is no longer usable.</li>
<li class="MsoNormal" style="margin: 0in 0in 0pt; mso-list: l1 level1 lfo2; tab-stops: list .5in;">Contain remotes in one room to one basket or box. Since many televisions are used for VHS, DVD, and several electronic games, label the remotes with the name of the item they control.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span></li>
<li class="MsoNormal" style="margin: 0in 0in 0pt; mso-list: l1 level1 lfo2; tab-stops: list .5in;">Store the manuals near the electronics if possible.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>Other manuals, receipts, etc. should be filed in the household reference files until the electronics are disposed.</li>
<li class="MsoNormal" style="margin: 0in 0in 0pt; mso-list: l1 level1 lfo2; tab-stops: list .5in;">Control the accumulation of cables for one device in baskets that can be secured under the device.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>Some will attach under the table top, shelf or desk.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>Look online for specific models.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>This makes cleaning around the device much easier, especially if they touch the floor.</li>
<li class="MsoNormal" style="margin: 0in 0in 0pt; mso-list: l1 level1 lfo2; tab-stops: list .5in;">For the ultimate challenge, eliminate the TV, electronic reader and games, and the cell phone for anything but calling for one day.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>You may have extra time to do the things you never had time to do.</li>
</ul>
Mary Frances Ballardhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/09894098982869484191noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7640181261458137999.post-37182296006725065262013-07-02T04:53:00.001-07:002013-07-02T04:53:21.003-07:00Organizing Tips for July
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<div class="MsoNormal" style="margin: 0in 0in 0pt;">
<b style="mso-bidi-font-weight: normal;"><span style="font-size: 18pt;"><o:p> </o:p></span></b></div>
<br />
<div class="MsoNormal" style="margin: 0in 0in 0pt 0.25in;">
<span style="mso-tab-count: 1;"> </span>It
is July and it is hot and humid as always.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;">
</span>I wonder if we spend as much time in air conditioning in the summer as
we do the heated rooms in the winter.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;">
</span>Since we are enjoying our <b style="mso-bidi-font-weight: normal;">living
rooms, family rooms or dens</b>, let’s get them organized this month.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>Here are some tips that might be helpful to
you.</div>
<ul style="margin-top: 0in;" type="disc">
<li class="MsoNormal" style="margin: 0in 0in 0pt; mso-list: l5 level1 lfo1; tab-stops: list .5in;">Arrange
electronic items such as televisions, CD and DVD players and video games
in one area so the wires and cables can be contained together. </li>
<li class="MsoNormal" style="margin: 0in 0in 0pt; mso-list: l3 level1 lfo2; tab-stops: list .5in;">Label
each end of cables and wires related to the computer and other electronic
equipment.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>It will save much time
in connecting or reconnecting</li>
<li class="MsoNormal" style="margin: 0in 0in 0pt; mso-list: l3 level1 lfo2; tab-stops: list .5in;">Use
wire baskets that can be mounted under shelves or cable ties to contain
wires.</li>
<li class="MsoNormal" style="margin: 0in 0in 0pt; mso-list: l3 level1 lfo2; tab-stops: list .5in;">Purge
videos, CDs and DVDs that are no longer used.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>Sell or donate them to a local charity,
nursing home or hospital.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>If you
want to locate one again, they can be rented or borrowed from local
libraries.</li>
<li class="MsoNormal" style="margin: 0in 0in 0pt; mso-list: l3 level1 lfo2; tab-stops: list .5in;">Renting
or borrowing movies and games is an excellent organizational choice and
sets a good example for your children in managing finances and spaces.</li>
<li class="MsoNormal" style="margin: 0in 0in 0pt; mso-list: l3 level1 lfo2; tab-stops: list .5in;">Store
CDs and DVDs in their case vertically on shallow shelves or if space is
limited, they can be removed from the case and placed in notebooks or
cases with plastic sleeves.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>Sort
and arrange by category.</li>
<li class="MsoNormal" style="margin: 0in 0in 0pt; mso-list: l3 level1 lfo2; tab-stops: list .5in;">Videos
can be stored vertically on shelves or in shoe box type containers.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>Do not stack flat as accessing those on
the bottom is more difficult.</li>
<li class="MsoNormal" style="margin: 0in 0in 0pt; mso-list: l4 level1 lfo3; tab-stops: list .5in;">Remotes
and game joysticks should be contained in a basket, decorative box or
container designed specifically for them.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;">
</span>Keep them within easy reach of the chair or sofa.</li>
<li class="MsoNormal" style="margin: 0in 0in 0pt; mso-list: l4 level1 lfo3; tab-stops: list .5in;">Place
a table or shelf near every seating area.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;">
</span>Large coffee tables can take the place of several small end
tables.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>Choose one with storage
shelves, cabinet doors or drawers. </li>
<li class="MsoNormal" style="margin: 0in 0in 0pt; mso-list: l4 level1 lfo3; tab-stops: list .5in;">Provide
an area for playing with toys if you allow that activity.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>A lower cabinet can be used to store
those items or they can be taken back to the bedroom in a tote box or
rolling crate.</li>
<li class="MsoNormal" style="margin: 0in 0in 0pt; mso-list: l0 level1 lfo4; tab-stops: list .5in;">For
reading areas be sure to have a comfortable chair with adequate lighting
and a place to store books, magazines, newspapers, etc.</li>
<li class="MsoNormal" style="margin: 0in 0in 0pt; mso-list: l0 level1 lfo4; tab-stops: list .5in;">Books
should be purged from bookcases.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;">
</span>Keeping fiction books that you have read serves no purpose except
to prove you own them.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>Sell or
donate them knowing you can borrow it from the library if you have time to
read it again.</li>
<li class="MsoNormal" style="margin: 0in 0in 0pt; mso-list: l0 level1 lfo4; tab-stops: list .5in;">Non-fiction
books should be grouped by category.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;">
</span>Since information is always changing, using older books as
reference many not provide recent findings.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>Let them go and use the Internet to find
the latest information.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>The books
are not your brain and letting them go will not cause you to forget what
you have learned.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>(Old age,
however, may cause you to forget.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>I
speak from experience once again.) </li>
<li class="MsoNormal" style="margin: 0in 0in 0pt; mso-list: l0 level1 lfo4; tab-stops: list .5in;">Sets
of encyclopedias are dated the moment you get them.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>Use the Internet or library for
research.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>Use their encyclopedias
if you want to teach your children how to use them.</li>
<li class="MsoNormal" style="margin: 0in 0in 0pt; mso-list: l0 level1 lfo4; tab-stops: list .5in;">Make
friends with the library.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>It is a
wonderful place of knowledge and entertainment for your children and
prevents book clutter from residing in your house.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>Most offer excellent programs for adults
and children.</li>
<li class="MsoNormal" style="margin: 0in 0in 0pt; mso-list: l0 level1 lfo4; tab-stops: list .5in;">Mix
books, plants, attractive storage containers or photographs on bookshelves
for more interesting arrangements.</li>
<li class="MsoNormal" style="margin: 0in 0in 0pt; mso-list: l1 level1 lfo5; tab-stops: list .5in;">Upper
bookcase shelves and over the window shelving can be used to display
collectables and photographs.</li>
<li class="MsoNormal" style="margin: 0in 0in 0pt; mso-list: l1 level1 lfo5; tab-stops: list .5in;">Collections
of similar items are more attractive when grouped together in displays. </li>
<li class="MsoNormal" style="margin: 0in 0in 0pt; mso-list: l1 level1 lfo5; tab-stops: list .5in;">Keep
an attractive container with pens, pencils, note pad and scissors in a
convenient location in case they are needed.</li>
<li class="MsoNormal" style="margin: 0in 0in 0pt; mso-list: l1 level1 lfo5; tab-stops: list .5in;">Card
tables can be used for board games, craft activities or other projects.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>When you are finished it can be folded
and stored under the sofa, behind large furniture or in a nearby closet.</li>
<li class="MsoNormal" style="margin: 0in 0in 0pt; mso-list: l1 level1 lfo5; tab-stops: list .5in;">If the
family office is located in this room, reserve a space for a table or
desk.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>A drawer or attractive
containers can hold desk supplies.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span></li>
<li class="MsoNormal" style="margin: 0in 0in 0pt; mso-list: l2 level1 lfo6; tab-stops: list .5in;">If a
computer will be located in this room, consider placing a wireless system
in your home to eliminate having to connect all of the components with
cables.</li>
</ul>
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<o:p> </o:p></div>
<br />
<div class="MsoNormal" style="margin: 0in 0in 0pt;">
<o:p> </o:p></div>
Mary Frances Ballardhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/09894098982869484191noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7640181261458137999.post-36429193137556620762013-06-04T05:56:00.003-07:002013-06-04T05:56:57.673-07:00Organizing Tips for June<div class="MsoNormal" style="margin: 0in 0in 0pt; text-align: center;">
Children’s rooms, Keepsakes and Travel</div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="margin: 0in 0in 0pt; text-align: center;">
<a data-ved="0CAUQjRw" href="http://www.google.com/url?sa=i&rct=j&q=&esrc=s&frm=1&source=images&cd=&cad=rja&docid=eaLIo6x6ETsNQM&tbnid=uG3o80f3B-oRgM:&ved=0CAUQjRw&url=http%3A%2F%2Fwww.flickr.com%2Fgroups%2Fikea_lovers%2Fdiscuss%2F72157594528229030%2F&ei=YeOtUeqkMOnW0gGIh4CIDA&bvm=bv.47244034,d.dmQ&psig=AFQjCNHtfsuYD5vwiCEEctdzqQTObZly2Q&ust=1370436805719666" id="irc_mil" style="border: 0px currentColor;"><img height="132" id="irc_mi" src="http://farm3.static.flickr.com/2303/1801559904_47c23c9f93.jpg" style="margin-top: 31px;" width="200" /></a></div>
<br />
<div class="MsoNormal" style="margin: 0in 0in 0pt;">
June is filled with activities and it is difficult to think about organizing.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>The best approach is to work in the areas that are already requiring time.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>Since it is the end of the school year and the children or grandchildren will be around, one subject to consider is their spaces and the keepsakes you have been saving for them.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>Of course travel is on the mind of most of us, too.</div>
<br />
<strong>Children's Rooms</strong><br />
<div class="MsoNormal" style="margin: 0in 0in 0pt;">
An avalanche of school papers may be arriving for you to handle this month.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span></div>
<br />
<div class="MsoNormal" style="margin: 0in 0in 0pt;">
My best advice is to let the child decide which to keep.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>Keepsake boxes or binders can be used for these.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span></div>
<br />
<div class="MsoNormal" style="margin: 0in 0in 0pt;">
Give one to each child and let it be the only place for special saved items.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>If it gets too full, let the child decide what to keep and what can go.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span></div>
<br />
<div class="MsoNormal" style="margin: 0in 0in 0pt;">
Resist the urge to get more or bigger boxes.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>Think about how many things you really need from your childhood to remember the good times.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span></div>
<br />
<div class="MsoNormal" style="margin: 0in 0in 0pt;">
Of course there are items they have made that you will store with your keepsakes, but be selective.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span></div>
<br />
<div class="MsoNormal" style="margin: 0in 0in 0pt;">
Children now have time to go through their rooms and eliminate items they have not used or no longer want or like.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span></div>
<br />
<div class="MsoNormal" style="margin: 0in 0in 0pt;">
Clothing that no longer fits can be sorted for sale or donation.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>Children grow quickly and by fall most of what they wore during the past year will not fit.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>Thankfully not much variety in clothing is need for the summer months.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span></div>
<br />
<div class="MsoNormal" style="margin: 0in 0in 0pt;">
If you are storing clothes for younger siblings to have later on, remember to label them as to sex, size and season.</div>
<br />
<div class="MsoNormal" style="margin: 0in 0in 0pt;">
Children need limits on everything except love and affection.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>They should not be allowed to collect an unlimited amount of matchbox cars, Barbie clothes, t-shirts, flip-flops or anything else.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span></div>
<br />
<div class="MsoNormal" style="margin: 0in 0in 0pt;">
Let the space determine how much can be easily organized in the given space and draw the line there.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>You will be teaching them good organizing habits and a lesson that there are limits in life.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span></div>
<br />
<div class="MsoNormal" style="margin: 0in 0in 0pt;">
Should they want a new item, remind them something they already have must go.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>This is the “one in—one out” rule that we all should follow.</div>
<br />
<strong>Keepsakes</strong><br />
<div class="MsoNormal" style="margin: 0in 0in 0pt;">
Too many of anything means none of them are special.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>This includes collections such as china, dolls, salt and pepper shakers, stamps, etc.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span></div>
<br />
<div class="MsoNormal" style="margin: 0in 0in 0pt;">
If space is limited and many of these items are stored in the attic or closets, consider saving only those that have special meaning and letting the remainder go to other family members or donate or sell them to anyone else who will appreciate them and has room for them.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span></div>
<br />
<div class="MsoNormal" style="margin: 0in 0in 0pt;">
Storing keepsakes out of site does not honor or respect the memories that go with them.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>Put those that you choose to keep in a place where they can be enjoyed and given the honor and respect they deserve.</div>
<br />
<div class="MsoNormal" style="margin: 0in 0in 0pt;">
Photographs are another source of keepsake clutter.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span></div>
<br />
<div class="MsoNormal" style="margin: 0in 0in 0pt;">
Save only the best from each activity.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>No one needs 100 pictures of the beach vacation.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>A few special pictures are all that is needed to capture that special time.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span></div>
<br />
<div class="MsoNormal" style="margin: 0in 0in 0pt;">
There are lots of ways to sort and save them in colorful scrapbooks and online in creative formats.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>I am not a scrapbooker, but I do admire the projects and products available from Creative Memories and other sources.</div>
<br />
<strong>Travel</strong><br />
<div class="MsoNormal" style="margin: 0in 0in 0pt;">
If you will be traveling this summer, create a permanent travel kit with activities for yourself and family.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>If it is only used for travel, the items will appear to be almost new and more interesting.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span></div>
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If you travel often and if you have storage space, create a permanent supply box or bag with items you always need.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>Some of these may be duplicates of items you use everyday at home but you will not need to disturb those.</div>
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A permanent travel checklist that you keep on your computer or in a convenient notebook is a great strategy to prevent forgetting items you always need.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>I keep one just for quilt retreats, my favorite travel experience!<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span></div>
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For information on organizing your suitcase, check out this article I posted for the local newspaper: </div>
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<a href="http://hrblogs.typepad.com/homeandgarden/2011/05/organizing-your-suitcase.html"><span style="color: blue;">http://hrblogs.typepad.com/homeandgarden/2011/05/organizing-your-suitcase.html</span></a></div>
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Make a point of enjoying the outdoors while the weather is nice.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>Keep outdoor umbrellas closed when not in use.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>It will extend their usefulness and prevent damage during high winds or thunderstorms.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>I have personal experience with this one.</div>
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And speaking of storms, this is the beginning of hurricane season.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>If you live in an area affected by hurricanes, high winds or rising waters, you should review the list of necessary emergency items and secure those now.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>Be sure to update your household inventory.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>More information on it can be found on a previous Blog I posted:<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span><a href="http://organizingtipsfromorderlyplaces.blogspot.com/2009/06/pictures-for-inventory.html"><span style="color: blue;">http://organizingtipsfromorderlyplaces.blogspot.com/2009/06/pictures-for-inventory.html</span></a></div>
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Enjoy this month of weddings, graduations, flowers and outdoor opportunities.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>June is special in many ways.</div>
Mary Frances Ballardhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/09894098982869484191noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7640181261458137999.post-8792941364971625042013-05-01T04:36:00.002-07:002013-05-01T04:36:50.033-07:00Organizing Checklist for May<div align="center">
<img class="rg_i" data-sz="f" name="omPzAdP-dpP1DM:" src="https://encrypted-tbn3.gstatic.com/images?q=tbn:ANd9GcQYDEwDNxmoIw8gc08ZTkRJ33vdQoAKMZuxGh19R9YnDfpSZrmBew" style="height: 159px; margin-left: 0px; margin-top: 0px; width: 318px;" /></div>
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<span style="font-size: xx-small;"><em>photo from cedarcreekgaragedoors.com</em></span></div>
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No one wants to be inside in the month of May.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>Flowers have been blooming, the weather is mostly nice and we are tired of being in the house.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>This is a good time to work on organizing the garage and getting the outdoors ready for summer activities.</div>
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Since the<b style="mso-bidi-font-weight: normal;"> Garage </b>is never first on our list of projects, let’s begin there<b style="mso-bidi-font-weight: normal;">.</b><span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>During the winter it often becomes a temporary dumping ground for items. <span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>If this is the spouse’s territory, be sure to work together as a team.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>God forbid that you should purge or arrange items that were “special”.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span><b style="mso-bidi-font-weight: normal;">I have found the most effective way to motivate a spouse is to begin purging and organizing your things</b>.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>Sometimes the guilt factor is motivating.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>Sometimes.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>Regardless, you never really can win a battle with a spouse. </div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="margin: 0in 0in 0pt 0.75in; mso-list: l0 level1 lfo1; tab-stops: list .75in; text-indent: -0.25in;">
<span style="font-family: Symbol; mso-bidi-font-family: Symbol; mso-fareast-font-family: Symbol;"><span style="mso-list: Ignore;"><span style="font-size-adjust: none; font-stretch: normal; font: 7pt/normal "Times New Roman";"> </span></span></span>Try to visualize zoning items you store in the garage.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>Plan locations for gardening, sports equipment, tools, automotive supplies, etc. so they are together and separated from other areas.</div>
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<div class="MsoNormal" style="margin: 0in 0in 0pt 0.75in; mso-list: l0 level1 lfo1; tab-stops: list .75in; text-indent: -0.25in;">
<span style="font-family: Symbol; mso-bidi-font-family: Symbol; mso-fareast-font-family: Symbol;"><span style="mso-list: Ignore;"><span style="font-size-adjust: none; font-stretch: normal; font: 7pt/normal "Times New Roman";"> </span></span></span>Take advantage of systems that will allow you to organize your items off the floor. <span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>It is much easier and faster to clea<st1:personname w:st="on">n w</st1:personname>ith fewer items on it.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="margin: 0in 0in 0pt 0.75in; mso-list: l0 level1 lfo1; tab-stops: list .75in; text-indent: -0.25in;">
<span style="font-family: Symbol; mso-bidi-font-family: Symbol; mso-fareast-font-family: Symbol;"><span style="mso-list: Ignore;"><span style="font-size-adjust: none; font-stretch: normal; font: 7pt/normal "Times New Roman";"> </span></span></span>Check out the home improvement stores for hooks, peg boards or shelving units to hold items that are now stacked on the floor. For pennies or hundreds of dollars, you can invest in organizing solutions that will work for you.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span></div>
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<span style="font-family: Symbol; mso-bidi-font-family: Symbol; mso-fareast-font-family: Symbol;"><span style="mso-list: Ignore;"><span style="font-size-adjust: none; font-stretch: normal; font: 7pt/normal "Times New Roman";"> </span></span></span>Be sure to label bins and cardboard boxes used for storage.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span></div>
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<span style="font-family: Symbol; mso-bidi-font-family: Symbol; mso-fareast-font-family: Symbol;"><span style="mso-list: Ignore;"><span style="font-size-adjust: none; font-stretch: normal; font: 7pt/normal "Times New Roman";"> </span></span></span>Move out items you no longer need.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>Only things you continually use should be kept.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span></div>
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<span style="font-family: Symbol; mso-bidi-font-family: Symbol; mso-fareast-font-family: Symbol;"><span style="mso-list: Ignore;"><span style="font-size-adjust: none; font-stretch: normal; font: 7pt/normal "Times New Roman";"> </span></span></span>Boxes of old magazines, newspapers, etc. should be recycled.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>Let’s face it.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>You didn’t have time to read them before and you won’t later on.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>There are too many new ideas coming at us everyday and those articles are outdated. </div>
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<span style="font-family: Symbol; mso-bidi-font-family: Symbol; mso-fareast-font-family: Symbol;"><span style="mso-list: Ignore;"><span style="font-size-adjust: none; font-stretch: normal; font: 7pt/normal "Times New Roman";"> </span></span></span>Review the sporting equipment to see if it is still needed.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>Move on any you no longer use. <span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span></div>
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<span style="font-family: Symbol; mso-bidi-font-family: Symbol; mso-fareast-font-family: Symbol;"><span style="mso-list: Ignore;"><span style="font-size-adjust: none; font-stretch: normal; font: 7pt/normal "Times New Roman";"> </span></span></span>Look for specialty hooks, bags and shelves to store the equipment you save.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span></div>
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<span style="font-family: Symbol; mso-bidi-font-family: Symbol; mso-fareast-font-family: Symbol;"><span style="mso-list: Ignore;"><span style="font-size-adjust: none; font-stretch: normal; font: 7pt/normal "Times New Roman";"> </span></span></span>Be sure to keep children’s things at lower levels so they can access them without your help.</div>
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<span style="font-family: Symbol; mso-bidi-font-family: Symbol; mso-fareast-font-family: Symbol;"><span style="mso-list: Ignore;"><span style="font-size-adjust: none; font-stretch: normal; font: 7pt/normal "Times New Roman";"> </span></span></span>A great pla<st1:personname w:st="on">n w</st1:personname>ould be to make room for the car if you have not already done this.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>Your automobile is probably the second most expensive investment you have made so take care of it.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span></div>
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<span style="font-family: Symbol; mso-bidi-font-family: Symbol; mso-fareast-font-family: Symbol;"><span style="mso-list: Ignore;"><span style="font-size-adjust: none; font-stretch: normal; font: 7pt/normal "Times New Roman";"> </span></span></span>Mark off a space for the car on the floor.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>Identify a wall item or hang a string or chain from the ceiling as a marker for how far you should pull forward.</div>
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<div class="MsoNormal" style="margin: 0in 0in 0pt 0.75in; mso-list: l0 level1 lfo1; tab-stops: list .75in; text-indent: -0.25in;">
<span style="font-family: Symbol; mso-bidi-font-family: Symbol; mso-fareast-font-family: Symbol;"><span style="mso-list: Ignore;"><span style="font-size-adjust: none; font-stretch: normal; font: 7pt/normal "Times New Roman";"> </span></span></span>If <b style="mso-bidi-font-weight: normal;">outdoor, yard or garden</b> items are kept in the garage, garden tools and accessories<b style="mso-bidi-font-weight: normal;">, </b>look over each one and evaluate keeping, cleaning or removing it<b style="mso-bidi-font-weight: normal;">.</b><span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span></div>
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<span style="font-family: Symbol; mso-bidi-font-family: Symbol; mso-fareast-font-family: Symbol;"><span style="mso-list: Ignore;"><span style="font-size-adjust: none; font-stretch: normal; font: 7pt/normal "Times New Roman";"> </span></span></span>Remove rusted, broken or stained plant containers, stepping stones and other garden fixtures.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span></div>
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<div class="MsoNormal" style="margin: 0in 0in 0pt 0.75in; mso-list: l0 level1 lfo1; tab-stops: list .75in; text-indent: -0.25in;">
<span style="font-family: Symbol; mso-bidi-font-family: Symbol; mso-fareast-font-family: Symbol;"><span style="mso-list: Ignore;"><span style="font-size-adjust: none; font-stretch: normal; font: 7pt/normal "Times New Roman";"> </span></span></span>Create racks or hooks for the tools and locate them together in one area.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span></div>
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<div class="MsoNormal" style="margin: 0in 0in 0pt 0.75in; mso-list: l0 level1 lfo1; tab-stops: list .75in; text-indent: -0.25in;">
<span style="font-family: Symbol; mso-bidi-font-family: Symbol; mso-fareast-font-family: Symbol;"><span style="mso-list: Ignore;"><span style="font-size-adjust: none; font-stretch: normal; font: 7pt/normal "Times New Roman";"> </span></span></span>Specialty items are available to hang rakes, shovels, etc. so they do not get tangled together or take up floor space.</div>
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<div class="MsoNormal" style="margin: 0in 0in 0pt 0.75in; mso-list: l0 level1 lfo1; tab-stops: list .75in; text-indent: -0.25in;">
<span style="font-family: Symbol; mso-bidi-font-family: Symbol; mso-fareast-font-family: Symbol;"><span style="mso-list: Ignore;"><span style="font-size-adjust: none; font-stretch: normal; font: 7pt/normal "Times New Roman";"> </span></span></span>Outdoor furniture may need to be cleaned before using, so check over each piece.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span></div>
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<span style="font-family: Symbol; mso-bidi-font-family: Symbol; mso-fareast-font-family: Symbol;"><span style="mso-list: Ignore;"><span style="font-size-adjust: none; font-stretch: normal; font: 7pt/normal "Times New Roman";"> </span></span></span>Toys that are outgrown or no longer needed can be moved on.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span></div>
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<div class="MsoNormal" style="margin: 0in 0in 0pt 0.75in; mso-list: l0 level1 lfo1; tab-stops: list .75in; text-indent: -0.25in;">
<span style="font-family: Symbol; mso-bidi-font-family: Symbol; mso-fareast-font-family: Symbol;"><span style="mso-list: Ignore;"><span style="font-size-adjust: none; font-stretch: normal; font: 7pt/normal "Times New Roman";"> </span></span></span>If you have water sports equipment or pool accessories, try to store those in good condition in their own area for convenience when they are needed.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="margin: 0in 0in 0pt 0.75in; mso-list: l0 level1 lfo1; tab-stops: list .75in; text-indent: -0.25in;">
<span style="font-family: Symbol; mso-bidi-font-family: Symbol; mso-fareast-font-family: Symbol;"><span style="mso-list: Ignore;"><span style="font-size-adjust: none; font-stretch: normal; font: 7pt/normal "Times New Roman";"> </span></span></span>Yard art is becoming very popular but be careful you do not allow it to take over.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>It can become clutter just like anything else.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>There is nothing more beautiful then flowering or luscious plants, shrubs and trees, so make them your focal point.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span></div>
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<div class="MsoNormal" style="margin: 0in 0in 0pt 0.75in; mso-list: l0 level1 lfo1; tab-stops: list .75in; text-indent: -0.25in;">
<span style="font-family: Symbol; mso-bidi-font-family: Symbol; mso-fareast-font-family: Symbol;"><span style="mso-list: Ignore;"><span style="font-size-adjust: none; font-stretch: normal; font: 7pt/normal "Times New Roman";"> </span></span></span>Adding hanging baskets or a border of blooming flowers can make a significant impact.</div>
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<div class="MsoNormal" style="margin: 0in 0in 0pt 0.75in; mso-list: l0 level1 lfo1; tab-stops: list .75in; text-indent: -0.25in;">
<span style="font-family: Symbol; mso-bidi-font-family: Symbol; mso-fareast-font-family: Symbol;"><span style="mso-list: Ignore;"><span style="font-size-adjust: none; font-stretch: normal; font: 7pt/normal "Times New Roman";"> </span></span></span>Once your garage is cleaned, you may consider a <b style="mso-bidi-font-weight: normal;">Garage or Yard Sale</b>.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>Here are some reminders.</div>
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<div class="MsoNormal" style="margin: 0in 0in 0pt 0.75in; mso-list: l0 level1 lfo1; tab-stops: list .75in; text-indent: -0.25in;">
<span style="font-family: Symbol; mso-bidi-font-family: Symbol; mso-fareast-font-family: Symbol;"><span style="mso-list: Ignore;"><span style="font-size-adjust: none; font-stretch: normal; font: 7pt/normal "Times New Roman";"> </span></span></span>**Collect, clean and repair items weeks ahead as you purge spaces.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="margin: 0in 0in 0pt 0.75in; mso-list: l0 level1 lfo1; tab-stops: list .75in; text-indent: -0.25in;">
<span style="font-family: Symbol; mso-bidi-font-family: Symbol; mso-fareast-font-family: Symbol;"><span style="mso-list: Ignore;"><span style="font-size-adjust: none; font-stretch: normal; font: 7pt/normal "Times New Roman";"> </span></span></span>**Check prices of similar items.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>Put on price tags and store in a common area.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>(Preprinted price tags can be found in some stationery stores, dollar stores, etc.)</div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="margin: 0in 0in 0pt 0.75in; mso-list: l0 level1 lfo1; tab-stops: list .75in; text-indent: -0.25in;">
<span style="font-family: Symbol; mso-bidi-font-family: Symbol; mso-fareast-font-family: Symbol;"><span style="mso-list: Ignore;"><span style="font-size-adjust: none; font-stretch: normal; font: 7pt/normal "Times New Roman";"> </span></span></span>**Choose a sale date.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>Join with neighbors if possible for a common date.</div>
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<div class="MsoNormal" style="margin: 0in 0in 0pt 0.75in; mso-list: l0 level1 lfo1; tab-stops: list .75in; text-indent: -0.25in;">
<span style="font-family: Symbol; mso-bidi-font-family: Symbol; mso-fareast-font-family: Symbol;"><span style="mso-list: Ignore;"><span style="font-size-adjust: none; font-stretch: normal; font: 7pt/normal "Times New Roman";"> </span></span></span>**Check community rules and get permits if necessary.</div>
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<span style="font-family: Symbol; mso-bidi-font-family: Symbol; mso-fareast-font-family: Symbol;"><span style="mso-list: Ignore;"><span style="font-size-adjust: none; font-stretch: normal; font: 7pt/normal "Times New Roman";"> </span></span></span>**Arrange for charity pickup or make plans for items not sold.</div>
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<div class="MsoNormal" style="margin: 0in 0in 0pt 0.75in; mso-list: l0 level1 lfo1; tab-stops: list .75in; text-indent: -0.25in;">
<span style="font-family: Symbol; mso-bidi-font-family: Symbol; mso-fareast-font-family: Symbol;"><span style="mso-list: Ignore;"><span style="font-size-adjust: none; font-stretch: normal; font: 7pt/normal "Times New Roman";"> </span></span></span>**Write ad for newspaper, Craig’s List, newsletters, etc.</div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="margin: 0in 0in 0pt 0.75in; mso-list: l0 level1 lfo1; tab-stops: list .75in; text-indent: -0.25in;">
<span style="font-family: Symbol; mso-bidi-font-family: Symbol; mso-fareast-font-family: Symbol;"><span style="mso-list: Ignore;"><span style="font-size-adjust: none; font-stretch: normal; font: 7pt/normal "Times New Roman";"> </span></span></span>**Make signs and flyers for bulletin boards and curbs where allowed.</div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="margin: 0in 0in 0pt 0.75in; mso-list: l0 level1 lfo1; tab-stops: list .75in; text-indent: -0.25in;">
<span style="font-family: Symbol; mso-bidi-font-family: Symbol; mso-fareast-font-family: Symbol;"><span style="mso-list: Ignore;"><span style="font-size-adjust: none; font-stretch: normal; font: 7pt/normal "Times New Roman";"> </span></span></span>**Obtain sufficient tables, racks, etc. for items to be displayed.</div>
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<span style="font-family: Symbol; mso-bidi-font-family: Symbol; mso-fareast-font-family: Symbol;"><span style="mso-list: Ignore;"><span style="font-size-adjust: none; font-stretch: normal; font: 7pt/normal "Times New Roman";"> </span></span></span>**Get change for large bills and newspaper, bags, etc. for fragile items or large sales.</div>
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<div class="MsoNormal" style="margin: 0in 0in 0pt 0.75in; mso-list: l0 level1 lfo1; tab-stops: list .75in; text-indent: -0.25in;">
<span style="font-family: Symbol; mso-bidi-font-family: Symbol; mso-fareast-font-family: Symbol;"><span style="mso-list: Ignore;"><span style="font-size-adjust: none; font-stretch: normal; font: 7pt/normal "Times New Roman";"> </span></span></span>**Use extension cords for testing electrical items.</div>
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<div class="MsoNormal" style="margin: 0in 0in 0pt 0.75in; mso-list: l0 level1 lfo1; tab-stops: list .75in; text-indent: -0.25in;">
<span style="font-family: Symbol; mso-bidi-font-family: Symbol; mso-fareast-font-family: Symbol;"><span style="mso-list: Ignore;"><span style="font-size-adjust: none; font-stretch: normal; font: 7pt/normal "Times New Roman";"> </span></span></span>**Place pens, paper, calculator, extra price tags, tape, and stapler at check out table.</div>
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<div class="MsoNormal" style="margin: 0in 0in 0pt 0.75in; mso-list: l0 level1 lfo1; tab-stops: list .75in; text-indent: -0.25in;">
<span style="font-family: Symbol; mso-bidi-font-family: Symbol; mso-fareast-font-family: Symbol;"><span style="mso-list: Ignore;"><span style="font-size-adjust: none; font-stretch: normal; font: 7pt/normal "Times New Roman";"> </span></span></span>**After sale, remove signs, clean area and dispose of unsold items as planned earlier.</div>
<br />A few other reminders for May:<br />
<div class="MsoNormal" style="margin: 0in 0in 0pt 0.75in; mso-list: l0 level1 lfo1; tab-stops: list .75in; text-indent: -0.25in;">
<span style="font-family: Symbol; mso-bidi-font-family: Symbol; mso-fareast-font-family: Symbol;"><span style="mso-list: Ignore;"><span style="font-size-adjust: none; font-stretch: normal; font: 7pt/normal "Times New Roman";"> </span></span></span><b style="mso-bidi-font-weight: normal;">Change the a/c filter and have a routine inspection</b> of all its components before the scorching days of summer arrive. </div>
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<div class="MsoNormal" style="margin: 0in 0in 0pt 0.75in; mso-list: l0 level1 lfo1; tab-stops: list .75in; text-indent: -0.25in;">
<span style="font-family: Symbol; mso-bidi-font-family: Symbol; mso-fareast-font-family: Symbol;"><span style="mso-list: Ignore;"><span style="font-size-adjust: none; font-stretch: normal; font: 7pt/normal "Times New Roman";"> </span></span></span>Clean ceiling fan blades and give other fans an inspection.</div>
<br />
<div class="MsoNormal" style="margin: 0in 0in 0pt 0.75in; mso-list: l0 level1 lfo1; tab-stops: list .75in; text-indent: -0.25in;">
<span style="font-family: Symbol; mso-bidi-font-family: Symbol; mso-fareast-font-family: Symbol;"><span style="mso-list: Ignore;"><span style="font-size-adjust: none; font-stretch: normal; font: 7pt/normal "Times New Roman";"> </span></span></span><b style="mso-bidi-font-weight: normal;">Clean the carpets and floors</b>.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>They were used and abused all winter and deserve a thorough cleaning.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>If piles of clutter or stacks of items are on them, consider moving the items to shelving, cabinets or tables.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="margin: 0in 0in 0pt 0.75in; mso-list: l0 level1 lfo1; tab-stops: list .75in; text-indent: -0.25in;">
<span style="font-family: Symbol; mso-bidi-font-family: Symbol; mso-fareast-font-family: Symbol;"><span style="mso-list: Ignore;"><span style="font-size-adjust: none; font-stretch: normal; font: 7pt/normal "Times New Roman";"> </span></span></span>Floors are easier to keep clea<st1:personname w:st="on">n w</st1:personname>hen only furniture is on them.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="margin: 0in 0in 0pt;">
If you get all of this done in May, you are exhausted and need a vacation.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>Thankfully summer will be right around the corner and you should take advantage of it.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>Have fun!</div>
Mary Frances Ballardhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/09894098982869484191noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7640181261458137999.post-83355022093992477662013-04-01T05:27:00.001-07:002013-04-01T05:27:13.457-07:00Organizing Checklist for April<div style="text-align: center;">
<a data-ved="0CAUQjRw" href="http://www.google.com/url?sa=i&rct=j&q=&esrc=s&frm=1&source=images&cd=&cad=rja&docid=Gs06AdSxgtp3pM&tbnid=gh2WJC256YbRBM:&ved=0CAUQjRw&url=http%3A%2F%2Fwww.hgtv.com%2Fhomekeeping%2Fdecluttering-the-linen-closet%2Findex.html&ei=_HpZUf34EIXe4AOmi4CwDg&bvm=bv.44442042,d.dmg&psig=AFQjCNG3DE2qqbtsPZ0buv9eLJerjxfRiQ&ust=1364905055825085" id="irc_mil" style="border: 0px currentColor;"><img height="200" id="irc_mi" src="http://img.hgtv.com/HGTV/2011/01/15/RX-DK-HSW19501_clean-linen_s3x4_al.jpg" style="margin-top: 20px;" width="150" /></a></div>
<div align="left" style="text-align: center;">
</div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="margin: 0in 0in 0pt;">
Hopefully the weather will be improving over the next few
weeks.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>I am still waiting for the first
blooms of my azaleas but the daffodils are out!<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;">
</span>We are continuing with our yearly plan of organizing that we listed at
the beginning of the year.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>On the cool
or rainy days, take some time to organize your <b style="mso-bidi-font-weight: normal;">linens and bathroom(s). </b></div>
<div style="text-align: left;">
</div>
<div style="text-align: left;">
</div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="margin: 0in 0in 0pt;">
If space is limited in <b style="mso-bidi-font-weight: normal;">linen
closets</b>, consider placing extra sheet sets in the bedroom where they are used.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>They can be stored in closets, inside under
the bed containers or even under the mattress of that bed.</div>
<div style="text-align: left;">
</div>
<div style="text-align: left;">
</div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="margin: 0in 0in 0pt;">
Replace heavier <b style="mso-bidi-font-weight: normal;">bedding
</b>with lighter weight items.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>Some
quilts or comforters need only to be put through the “air” cycle on the dryer
to remove dust.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>Store them in pillow
cases or the large plastic bags now available to keep them clean.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>Vacuum bags can also be used but be aware
they will gradually allow air to return.</div>
<div style="text-align: left;">
</div>
<div style="text-align: left;">
</div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="margin: 0in 0in 0pt;">
Remove sheets, blankets, etc. that are torn or in
disrepair.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>If they can be fixed, find
someone to do it, otherwise, recycle them to local pet shelters or other
appropriate places.</div>
<div style="text-align: left;">
</div>
<div style="text-align: left;">
</div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="margin: 0in 0in 0pt;">
We often collect pillows and other bedding to have on hand
in case guests stay overnight.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>Evaluate
what you have that has rarely or never been used.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>Perhaps some of them can replace those you
have removed, or they can be donated or sold to allow room for better
organization of the space.</div>
<div style="text-align: left;">
</div>
<div style="text-align: left;">
</div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="margin: 0in 0in 0pt;">
Make similar decisions about your <b style="mso-bidi-font-weight: normal;">bathroom linens</b>.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>Towels and
wash cloths that are in disrepair should be removed and replaced with those you
have been saving for a special occasion or purchase additional items on
sale.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>Most department stores have linen
sales throughout the year and discount or outlet stores also offer good
savings.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="margin: 0in 0in 0pt;">
<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"></span> </div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="margin: 0in 0in 0pt;">
<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"></span>I suggest rolling towels to
make it easier for children (or adults) to choose their favorite towel with the
least amount of disturbance to those remaining.</div>
<div style="text-align: left;">
</div>
<div style="text-align: left;">
</div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="margin: 0in 0in 0pt;">
Many cotton items will dry rot if not used over a period of
time.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>This often occurs on the folded
edges so check those that have been sitting on the shelf for a longer period of
time.</div>
<div style="text-align: left;">
</div>
<div style="text-align: left;">
</div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="margin: 0in 0in 0pt;">
Clear the <b style="mso-bidi-font-weight: normal;">bathroom
counters</b> and contain any times that must remain there.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>Use trays, baskets, bins, etc. to make clean
up easier there.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>I love the portable
totes that can be easily moved to other storage areas.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>Give one to each person using the bathroom is
space is limited.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>Be diligent in
removing old or expired products and store duplicates of items in another area.</div>
<div style="text-align: left;">
</div>
<div style="text-align: left;">
</div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="margin: 0in 0in 0pt;">
Be sure all products in the bathroom have a label.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>This is especially important with
medicines.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>You may check out taking
expired medicines to your local pharmacy or ask them the best way to dispose of
them.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span><st1:place w:st="on">Flushing</st1:place>
in the toilet or garbage disposal is no longer recommended because of
contamination of local waters.</div>
<div style="text-align: left;">
</div>
<div style="text-align: left;">
</div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="margin: 0in 0in 0pt;">
If the bathroom needs updating, consider using hooks rather
than bars for towels.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>Children find them
much easier to use so be sure to put those lower on the wall or door.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>Consider using dark or disposable towels for
removing make-up </div>
<div style="text-align: left;">
</div>
<div style="text-align: left;">
</div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="margin: 0in 0in 0pt;">
Placing a magnifying mirror on the wall saves space and is
more convenient that a portable model.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;">
</span>Using pull out shelves or wire baskets under the sink will make access
much easier to items stored in the back of those cabinets.</div>
<div style="text-align: left;">
</div>
<div style="text-align: left;">
</div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="margin: 0in 0in 0pt;">
Keeping these areas organized requires daily maintenance
because of daily use.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>Setting up a
schedule and requiring participation of all the family members can help keep
them clean and neat.</div>
<div style="text-align: left;">
</div>
Mary Frances Ballardhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/09894098982869484191noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7640181261458137999.post-40677174723239636102013-03-01T04:23:00.000-08:002013-03-01T04:23:00.013-08:00Organizing Tips for March<ul>
<li><div style="text-align: center;">
<img class="rg_i" data-sz="f" name="Brk-152k7BBI2M:" src="https://encrypted-tbn2.gstatic.com/images?q=tbn:ANd9GcQ3FVBrwvLsq7QyxYgBePsWahqw1-M7G7iS5CBdFp6u5RwW2Isx" style="height: 183px; margin-left: -16px; margin-top: 0px; width: 275px;" /></div>
</li>
</ul>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="margin: 0in 0in 0pt;">
Spring arrives this month, at least on the calendar. Daylight
Saving Time begins Sunday, March 10<sup>th</sup>.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>Set your clock ahead one hour. <span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span><b style="mso-bidi-font-weight: normal;">This
month we are concentrating on the attic and clothing.<o:p></o:p></b></div>
<div style="text-align: left;">
</div>
<ul style="margin-top: 0in;" type="disc">
<li class="MsoNormal" style="margin: 0in 0in 0pt; mso-list: l0 level1 lfo1; tab-stops: list .5in;"><b style="mso-bidi-font-weight: normal;">The Attic</b>.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>March is a good month for checking out
the situation in the attic.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>The
warmer days allow you to spend time there without the coldest winter
temperatures or the extreme heat of summer.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span></li>
<li class="MsoNormal" style="margin: 0in 0in 0pt; mso-list: l0 level1 lfo1; tab-stops: list .5in;">Unless
you are storing items for another family member, the goal is to keep as
little as possible in the attic.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>It
is usually inconvenient to access and too hot or cold to spend time
there.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>The extreme temperatures are
also not good for many items to be kept there safely.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>In addition, you must take care to
prevent invasion by critters.</li>
<li class="MsoNormal" style="margin: 0in 0in 0pt; mso-list: l0 level1 lfo1; tab-stops: list .5in;">If you
are storing items for adult children or other friends or family consider asking
them to retrieve them.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>Setting a
deadline to have them removed or they will be donated may spur them into
action.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>In my professional and
personal experience, I have found that most people don’t really want them
after being without for awhile.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>You
may be surprised that is the case with items you may have stored for
others.</li>
<li class="MsoNormal" style="margin: 0in 0in 0pt; mso-list: l0 level1 lfo1; tab-stops: list .5in;">For
safety reasons and convenience, add lighting and secure floor boards in
areas of the attic you must use.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span></li>
<li class="MsoNormal" style="margin: 0in 0in 0pt; mso-list: l0 level1 lfo1; tab-stops: list .5in;">For
items you must keep, create zones for the types of items you are
storing.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>For example, holiday items
can be labeled and stored together.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;">
</span></li>
<li class="MsoNormal" style="margin: 0in 0in 0pt; mso-list: l0 level1 lfo1; tab-stops: list .5in;">Use color
coded containers or labels to help identify containers quickly.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>These are most easily found during or
right after the holidays or seasons.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;">
</span>I have found brown and orange bins in October and November, red and
green in December and yellow in the spring.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>Of course you can create you own color
coded labels, too.</li>
<li class="MsoNormal" style="margin: 0in 0in 0pt; mso-list: l0 level1 lfo1; tab-stops: list .5in;">Take
care to cover wood furnishings with sheets or blankets.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>Upholstered furniture should not be
stored in the attic for many reasons. The extreme temperatures will cause
the fabric to deteriorate and pests find the padding very inviting for
nests.</li>
<li class="MsoNormal" style="margin: 0in 0in 0pt; mso-list: l0 level1 lfo1; tab-stops: list .5in;">The
attic is not suitable for candles, photographs, soft plastics such as in
dolls, electronic media such as tapes, and many fabrics.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>Papers and files will become brittle if
stored for any length of time.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;">
</span>Unless they hold sentimental value, they should be recycled or
shredded.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>There is no need to keep
old bank statements or cancelled checks and most financial documents as
they are now kept by institutions in computer files.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>Legal documents should be kept where the
temperature is controlled.</li>
<li class="MsoNormal" style="margin: 0in 0in 0pt; mso-list: l0 level1 lfo1; tab-stops: list .5in;">If
there are many items left to store after sorting, purging and cleaning the
attic space, it is a good idea to create a map of where items are
located.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>This will save much time
when it is necessary to recover them.</li>
<li class="MsoNormal" style="margin: 0in 0in 0pt; mso-list: l0 level1 lfo1; tab-stops: list .5in;"><b style="mso-bidi-font-weight: normal;">Clothing</b><span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>As the days are longer and warmer, remove
the heaviest clothing you will save to summer storage.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>This may mean to the back of the closet,
to another closet or storage area, or out of the house permanently.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>If they will be part of a future yard
sale, store them in the area set aside for that.</li>
<li class="MsoNormal" style="margin: 0in 0in 0pt; mso-list: l0 level1 lfo1; tab-stops: list .5in;">Winter
clothing takes up lots of room in closets and drawers because they are heavier
and have long sleeves.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>If there are
items you did not use or those that children have outgrown, consider
moving them out now.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span></li>
</ul>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="margin: 0in 0in 0pt 0.25in;">
<span style="mso-tab-count: 1;"> </span>Clothing
closets are one of the most frequently requested areas to organize.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span><span style="mso-tab-count: 1;"> </span>While
there are great strategies to use in setting up closet systems, the biggest <span style="mso-tab-count: 1;"> </span>problem is too many items.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>Pareto’s rule applies here.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>You usually wear only <span style="mso-tab-count: 1;"> </span>20% of your clothing 80% of the time.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>Being willing to let go of those items that you don’t wear, for whatever reason,
will make the task of organizing the closet <span style="mso-tab-count: 1;"> </span>much
easier.</div>
<div style="text-align: left;">
</div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="margin: 0in 0in 0pt 0.25in;">
<span style="mso-tab-count: 1;"> </span>Creating
zones in your closets for types of clothing will make keeping it <span style="mso-tab-count: 1;"> </span>organized easier.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>Group types of clothes together with durable
hangers.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>Above <span style="mso-tab-count: 1;"> </span>all else, do not use wire hangers.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>They are not good for you clothing or closet.
</div>
<div style="text-align: left;">
</div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="margin: 0in 0in 0pt 0.25in;">
<span style="mso-tab-count: 1;"> </span>As
you sort and group your clothing you will begin to see what you have in <span style="mso-tab-count: 1;"> </span>excess and what you may need to purchase
to complete an outfit.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>Put those needed items on a list and try to purchase
only those when shopping.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span></div>
<div style="text-align: left;">
</div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="margin: 0in 0in 0pt 0.25in;">
<span style="mso-tab-count: 1;"> </span>While
consignment shops usually only take current season clothing, removed <span style="mso-tab-count: 1;"> </span>items can be donated to a charity or sold
in a yard sale.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>Moving them out will give you more space for the items that you
do love and wear. </div>
<div style="text-align: left;">
</div>
<div style="text-align: left;">
</div>
<ul style="margin-top: 0in;" type="disc">
<li class="MsoNormal" style="margin: 0in 0in 0pt; mso-list: l0 level1 lfo1; tab-stops: list .5in;">If you
have considered the possibility of having a yard or tag sale. It is never
too early to plan and prepare for one.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;">
</span>This month is the time to set the date and work towards that goal.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>May and June are great choices as it is
not too hot and people are on the move.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;">
</span>Consider going i<st1:personname w:st="on">n w</st1:personname>ith
neighbors or friends to draw more customers onto your street.</li>
</ul>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="margin: 0in 0in 0pt; mso-list: l0 level1 lfo1; tab-stops: list .5in;">
</div>
<ul style="margin-top: 0in;" type="disc">
<li class="MsoNormal" style="margin: 0in 0in 0pt; mso-list: l0 level1 lfo1; tab-stops: list .5in;">This
is the time to get indoor tasks finished so you can enjoy the outdoors as
soon as the warm weather is here.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;">
</span>Whatever the project, do not let it drag on or remain unfinished
until next winter.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>Make that final
to-do list and get it done.</li>
</ul>
<div style="text-align: left;">
</div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="margin: 0in 0in 0pt 0.25in;">
<o:p> </o:p></div>
<div style="text-align: left;">
</div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="margin: 0in 0in 0pt 0.25in;">
<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span></div>
<div style="text-align: left;">
</div>
<div align="left" style="text-align: center;">
</div>
<div align="left" style="text-align: center;">
</div>
Mary Frances Ballardhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/09894098982869484191noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7640181261458137999.post-60581909787725625302013-02-03T04:54:00.005-08:002013-02-03T04:54:50.228-08:00Organizing Checklist for February<div style="text-align: center;">
<img class="rg_i" data-sz="f" name="O9ia9J4URwJ5OM:" src="https://encrypted-tbn2.gstatic.com/images?q=tbn:ANd9GcTM8JCwTAu-ppcBa737IRQQMs8iSRGadO0fZ3QGz5su9Bst9gZM" style="height: 182px; margin-left: 0px; margin-top: -7px; width: 173px;" /></div>
<div style="text-align: left;">
</div>
<div style="text-align: left;">
</div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="margin: 0in 0in 0pt 0.25in; text-align: justify;">
This month we
are concentrating on books and hobbies.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;">
</span>Since there are so many types of hobbies and since we often take on too
many, this blog will be a long one.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>I
have gone into more detail in my book, but you can begin with these tips.</div>
<div style="text-align: left;">
</div>
<div style="text-align: left;">
<strong>
Books</strong></div>
<ul style="margin-top: 0in;" type="disc">
<li class="MsoNormal" style="margin: 0in 0in 0pt; mso-list: l0 level1 lfo1; tab-stops: list .5in; text-align: justify;">Keeping fiction books that you have read serve no
purpose except to prove you own them.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;">
</span>Sell or donate them knowing you can borrow it from the library if
you have time to read it again.</li>
<li class="MsoNormal" style="margin: 0in 0in 0pt; mso-list: l0 level1 lfo1; tab-stops: list .5in; text-align: justify;">Non-fiction books should be grouped by category. <span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>Since information is always changing,
using older books as reference many not provide recent findings.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>Let them go and use the Internet to find
the latest information.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>The books
are not your brain and letting them go will not cause you to forget what
you have learned.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>(Old age,
however, may cause you to forget.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>I
speak from experience.) </li>
<li class="MsoNormal" style="margin: 0in 0in 0pt; mso-list: l0 level1 lfo1; tab-stops: list .5in; text-align: justify;">Make friends with the library.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span></li>
<li class="MsoNormal" style="margin: 0in 0in 0pt; mso-list: l1 level1 lfo2; tab-stops: list .5in; text-align: justify;">Use vertical areas to provide extra shelves or
cabinets for storage.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span></li>
</ul>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="margin: 0in 0in 0pt 0.25in; text-align: justify;">
<b style="mso-bidi-font-weight: normal;">Hobbies</b></div>
<ul style="margin-top: 0in;" type="disc">
<li class="MsoNormal" style="margin: 0in 0in 0pt; mso-list: l3 level1 lfo3; tab-stops: list .5in; text-align: justify;">Limit the number of hobbies you take on:<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>two is best or three if it is related to
the one of the others.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span></li>
<li class="MsoNormal" style="margin: 0in 0in 0pt; mso-list: l3 level1 lfo3; tab-stops: list .5in; text-align: justify;">Do not try to purchase every new tool or supply for
that craft when it comes along.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;">
</span>Most specialty gadgets are rarely used and take up valuable space.</li>
<li class="MsoNormal" style="margin: 0in 0in 0pt; mso-list: l3 level1 lfo3; tab-stops: list .5in; text-align: justify;">Finish one project before you start another one.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>I know that is difficult when classes
come along to teach a new technique.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;">
</span>Go to the class and take notes if you must, but do not start
another project.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span></li>
<li class="MsoNormal" style="margin: 0in 0in 0pt; mso-list: l3 level1 lfo3; tab-stops: list .5in; text-align: justify;">Purchase kits when they are suitable.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>It will save you time in making choices
and money in purchasing supplies you don’t use.</li>
<li class="MsoNormal" style="margin: 0in 0in 0pt; mso-list: l3 level1 lfo3; tab-stops: list .5in; text-align: justify;">Use storage containers designed for your items if
they are convenient for you to use.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;">
</span>It is usually the most efficient use of space.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>If those are too expensive, try to find
a less expensive but similar substitute container in the fishing tackle,
laundry or kitchen storage area of the store.</li>
<li class="MsoNormal" style="margin: 0in 0in 0pt; mso-list: l3 level1 lfo3; tab-stops: list .5in; text-align: justify;">Consider over the door style shoe bags with clear
pockets for sorting and storing small items.</li>
<li class="MsoNormal" style="margin: 0in 0in 0pt; mso-list: l3 level1 lfo3; tab-stops: list .5in; text-align: justify;">Portable totes, rolling carts or drawers, wheeled
suitcases and crates are all options when space is limited.</li>
<li class="MsoNormal" style="margin: 0in 0in 0pt; mso-list: l3 level1 lfo3; tab-stops: list .5in; text-align: justify;">Fill the closet in a spare room with shelving for
containers or stackable drawers for your craft items.</li>
<li class="MsoNormal" style="margin: 0in 0in 0pt; mso-list: l3 level1 lfo3; tab-stops: list .5in; text-align: justify;">Folding or card tables can be used for projects if no
other surfaces are suitable for your projects.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>These can be stored under beds, behind
tall furniture or in other storage areas.</li>
<li class="MsoNormal" style="margin: 0in 0in 0pt; mso-list: l3 level1 lfo3; tab-stops: list .5in; text-align: justify;">Purge items you have not used and realize now you
probably will never use.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>Our tastes
and preferences change over time and there is no point in keeping
something just because you thought you might use it.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>Sell or donate it to your craft group or
guild.</li>
<li class="MsoNormal" style="margin: 0in 0in 0pt; mso-list: l3 level1 lfo3; tab-stops: list .5in; text-align: justify;">Store craft magazines and how to booklets in a
magazine holder.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>When it is filled,
use the one in one out principle.</li>
<li class="MsoNormal" style="margin: 0in 0in 0pt; mso-list: l3 level1 lfo3; tab-stops: list .5in; text-align: justify;">Use peg boards to store tools and supplies that are
used often.</li>
<li class="MsoNormal" style="margin: 0in 0in 0pt; mso-list: l3 level1 lfo3; tab-stops: list .5in; text-align: justify;">Convert chests, china cabinets and other furniture
into attractive storage for your supplies..</li>
<li class="MsoNormal" style="margin: 0in 0in 0pt; mso-list: l5 level1 lfo4; tab-stops: list .5in; text-align: justify;">Discard unflattering, foggy or distorted photos.</li>
<li class="MsoNormal" style="margin: 0in 0in 0pt; mso-list: l5 level1 lfo4; tab-stops: list .5in; text-align: justify;">Invest in a digital camera and begin using online
services to create scrapbooks, calendars, cards and more.</li>
<li class="MsoNormal" style="margin: 0in 0in 0pt; mso-list: l5 level1 lfo4; tab-stops: list .5in; text-align: justify;">Consider scanning older quality photos rather than
saving them for scrapbooks.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;">
</span>Companies that offer those services are listed in the resource
section.</li>
<li class="MsoNormal" style="margin: 0in 0in 0pt; mso-list: l5 level1 lfo4; tab-stops: list .5in; text-align: justify;">Plan a photo give away day for those photos you no
longer need or want.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span></li>
<li class="MsoNormal" style="margin: 0in 0in 0pt; mso-list: l5 level1 lfo4; tab-stops: list .5in; text-align: justify;">Shoe boxes or similar photo boxes can be used to
store saved photos.</li>
<li class="MsoNormal" style="margin: 0in 0in 0pt; mso-list: l5 level1 lfo4; tab-stops: list .5in; text-align: justify;">If upgrading to equipment or supplies with more
features, sell or donate the equipment and supplies it replaces.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>Do not keep it just in case you might
need it.</li>
<li class="MsoNormal" style="margin: 0in 0in 0pt; mso-list: l7 level1 lfo5; tab-stops: list .5in; text-align: justify;">Use crafting/sewing tables with adjustable legs so it
can be lowered to a comfortable level.</li>
<li class="MsoNormal" style="margin: 0in 0in 0pt; mso-list: l7 level1 lfo5; tab-stops: list .5in; text-align: justify;">Divided plastic drawer sets and towers can be used to
store supplies.</li>
<li class="MsoNormal" style="margin: 0in 0in 0pt; mso-list: l7 level1 lfo5; tab-stops: list .5in; text-align: justify;">Purge patterns and fabrics and sell or donate those
you no longer use or like.</li>
<li class="MsoNormal" style="margin: 0in 0in 0pt; mso-list: l7 level1 lfo5; tab-stops: list .5in; text-align: justify;">Create a cutting/project/pressing table by placing a
table on bed risers to make the height more back and neck friendly.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>Cover it with a padded board for
pressing.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>A cutting mat can be
placed on top of this as the need arises.</li>
<li class="MsoNormal" style="margin: 0in 0in 0pt; mso-list: l7 level1 lfo5; tab-stops: list .5in; text-align: justify;">Keep projects portable in the extra large zip top
bags.</li>
<li class="MsoNormal" style="margin: 0in 0in 0pt; mso-list: l4 level1 lfo6; tab-stops: list .5in; text-align: justify;">Consider fishing tackle boxes for sorting and storage
of small notions, beads, wires and tools.<b style="mso-bidi-font-weight: normal;"><o:p></o:p></b></li>
<li class="MsoNormal" style="margin: 0in 0in 0pt; mso-list: l4 level1 lfo6; tab-stops: list .5in; text-align: justify;">Store stacks of containers on shelves in bookcases or
cabinets with identifying labels on the front edge.</li>
<li class="MsoNormal" style="margin: 0in 0in 0pt; mso-list: l6 level1 lfo8; tab-stops: list .5in; text-align: justify;">Save only very special greeting cards you have
received.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>Cut off the verse and
name of the giver to save and discard the front and envelope. </li>
<li class="MsoNormal" style="margin: 0in 0in 0pt; mso-list: l6 level1 lfo8; tab-stops: list .5in; text-align: justify;">Make memories of sentimental items by creating shadow
boxes, framed photo collages, pillow tops, album covers or quilts.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>These can be passed on to other
generations.</li>
<li class="MsoNormal" style="margin: 0in 0in 0pt; mso-list: l6 level1 lfo8; tab-stops: list .5in; text-align: justify;">Make a child’s craft kit by storing the supplies in a
zip top big bag.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>Everything will be
ready for them to use and clean up will be simple.</li>
<li class="MsoNormal" style="margin: 0in 0in 0pt; mso-list: l6 level1 lfo8; tab-stops: list .5in; text-align: justify;">Eliminate excessive gift wrapping supplies by
investing in one or two rolls of paper.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;">
</span>White or paper bag brown can be used for any occasion.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>They can be decorated with markers or
rubber stamps or left plain with a pretty bow.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>Store in a flat container under the bed
or in containers designed for them.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;">
</span>Keeping one bright and one pastel roll of ribbon is sufficient.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span></li>
<li class="MsoNormal" style="margin: 0in 0in 0pt; mso-list: l6 level1 lfo8; tab-stops: list .5in; text-align: justify;">Use special ribbon holders if you maintain several
rolls.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>These make it convenient for
you to pull off one ribbon at a time. </li>
</ul>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="margin: 0in 0in 0pt 0.25in; text-align: justify;">
<b style="mso-bidi-font-weight: normal;">Collections<o:p></o:p></b></div>
<div style="text-align: left;">
</div>
<ul style="margin-top: 0in;" type="disc">
<li class="MsoNormal" style="margin: 0in 0in 0pt; mso-list: l4 level1 lfo6; tab-stops: list .5in; text-align: justify;">Valuable collections such as rare coins or jewelry
should be appraised, inventoried and stored in a safe place.</li>
<li class="MsoNormal" style="margin: 0in 0in 0pt; mso-list: l2 level1 lfo7; tab-stops: list .5in; text-align: justify;">Purge items you have collected but have no
sentimental value and you do not want to display.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>See if a family member wants them before
selling or donating.</li>
<li class="MsoNormal" style="margin: 0in 0in 0pt; mso-list: l2 level1 lfo7; tab-stops: list .5in; text-align: justify;">Have pictures taken of you with the item before
removing it if you no longer have room for it.</li>
<li class="MsoNormal" style="margin: 0in 0in 0pt; mso-list: l2 level1 lfo7; tab-stops: list .5in; text-align: justify;">Limit the items you collect to the space that you
have to display them.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>If you insist
on storing some of them elsewhere, rotate them through your display so you
can enjoy what you have.</li>
<li class="MsoNormal" style="margin: 0in 0in 0pt; mso-list: l2 level1 lfo7; tab-stops: list .5in; text-align: justify;">Group your collections together for the most
attractive arrangements.</li>
<li class="MsoNormal" style="margin: 0in 0in 0pt; mso-list: l2 level1 lfo7; tab-stops: list .5in; text-align: justify;">The best collectible is money.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>Save it in interest bearing accounts
rather than spending in on other items to collect.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>It takes no storage space and grows in
value.</li>
</ul>
<div style="text-align: left;">
</div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="margin: 0in 0in 0pt 0.25in; text-align: justify;">
<b style="mso-bidi-font-weight: normal;"><o:p> </o:p></b></div>
<div style="text-align: left;">
</div>
<div align="center" class="MsoNormal" style="margin: 0in 0in 0pt 0.25in; text-align: center;">
<i style="mso-bidi-font-style: normal;"><o:p> </o:p></i></div>
<div style="text-align: left;">
</div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="margin: 0in 0in 0pt;">
<o:p> </o:p></div>
<div style="text-align: left;">
</div>
Mary Frances Ballardhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/09894098982869484191noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7640181261458137999.post-19066324766943820042013-01-02T08:32:00.002-08:002013-01-02T08:32:36.974-08:00Organizing Checklist for 2013 and January<div align="center">
<img alt="" class="rg_hi uh_hi" data-height="225" data-width="225" height="225" id="rg_hi" src="https://encrypted-tbn0.gstatic.com/images?q=tbn:ANd9GcSf8IVUab3BW9pgNjhKSfrdbJjoPeXOEeiEE7KC--wK07AyURabmw" style="height: 225px; width: 225px;" width="225" /></div>
Somehow the December checklist did not make it in cyberspace. Hopefully you survived the holidays and are ready to continue your organizing journey. So let's move on.<br />
<br />
<br />
<div class="MsoNormal" style="margin: 0in 0in 0pt;">
<span style="color: black; font-family: Georgia;">Happy New
Year! Once again I must get used to writing the date for the new year
correctly. You would think by now I would not start the year with 19 but old
habits die hard. For those of you who like to plan ahead, I have an organizing
agenda for the year that will include the checklists for those topics each
month. In addition, I will include other items that need to be addressed that
time of the year. Here is the schedule:<br />
January--Paper, Files, Home Office<br />
February--Books and Hobbies<br />
March--Attics, Clothing<br />
April--Linens and Bathrooms<br />
May--Garage and Yard<br />
June--Children's Rooms, Guest Room/Spare Room<br />
July--Family Room or Den<br />
August--Toys, Electronics (are they the same thing?!)<br />
September--Bedrooms, Clothing<br />
October--Dining Room<br />
November--Pantry, Kitchen<br />
December--Holiday <br />
<br />
Now on to January. It is time to deal with the papers and other items in home
offices. Regardless of the size or space you have to manage the running of the
home, you need a clutter free space to pay bills, keep records and manage
accounts. The computer was supposed to make us a paper free socieity but we all
know that did not happen.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>We bought
printers and made matters worse. Here are a few tips to help with this areas.<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<br />
<ul type="disc">
<li class="MsoNormal" style="color: black; margin: 0in 0in 0pt; mso-list: l0 level1 lfo1; mso-margin-bottom-alt: auto; mso-margin-top-alt: auto; tab-stops: list .5in;"><span style="font-family: Georgia;">Create an inbox for incoming papers: mail, bulletins,
newsletters, schedules, etc. Put this in the space you normally drop mail.
Select categories and put the paper that enters the house in the correct
section. If you use a compact hanging file box, make a hanging folder for
each category that fits your situation. Drop the papers in it and deal
with them when necessary or the file is full. I continually get feedback
from clients on how this one thing helped them to get control of incoming
bills, etc.<o:p></o:p></span></li>
<li class="MsoNormal" style="color: black; margin: 0in 0in 0pt; mso-list: l0 level1 lfo1; mso-margin-bottom-alt: auto; mso-margin-top-alt: auto; tab-stops: list .5in;"><span style="font-family: Georgia;">Save only legal documents or papers related to your home or
health in a permanent file drawer or box. You do not need to keep the
statements from every institution after they have been checked for
accuracy and/or paid. Those accounts are kept in computer files by the
institution that you can access if necessary. Even appliance and
electronic manuals are kept online now.<o:p></o:p></span></li>
<li class="MsoNormal" style="color: black; margin: 0in 0in 0pt; mso-list: l0 level1 lfo1; mso-margin-bottom-alt: auto; mso-margin-top-alt: auto; tab-stops: list .5in;"><span style="font-family: Georgia;">Purchase a fireproof/waterproof box for storing originals of
legal documents and information that relates to your accounts, etc. This
will be heavy but can be locked and withstands destructive elements in
case of disaster. It can also be accessed by you when banks with safety
deposit boxes are closed.<o:p></o:p></span></li>
<li class="MsoNormal" style="color: black; margin: 0in 0in 0pt; mso-list: l0 level1 lfo1; mso-margin-bottom-alt: auto; mso-margin-top-alt: auto; tab-stops: list .5in;"><span style="font-family: Georgia;">Shred old documents with personal information and recycle the
rest. Minimize your paper storage.<o:p></o:p></span></li>
<li class="MsoNormal" style="color: black; margin: 0in 0in 0pt; mso-list: l0 level1 lfo1; mso-margin-bottom-alt: auto; mso-margin-top-alt: auto; tab-stops: list .5in;"><span style="font-family: Georgia;">Stop magazine subscriptions and get your information at the
library or online. Move out all older magazines. If you have read them,
you don't need them. If you have not read them by now, you won't read them
in the future. The same goes for newspapers. Except for the Sunday editio<st1:personname w:st="on">n w</st1:personname>ith coupons (if you are a couponer), most
news and obituaries (of course) can be found online. Remember magazines
and newspapers are more than half advertisements.<o:p></o:p></span></li>
<li class="MsoNormal" style="color: black; margin: 0in 0in 0pt; mso-list: l0 level1 lfo1; mso-margin-bottom-alt: auto; mso-margin-top-alt: auto; tab-stops: list .5in;"><span style="font-family: Georgia;">Throw away catalogues as soon as they come in. Save the discount
label if you decide to order something online or by phone. Looking through
catalogues is like watching a very long commercial. What a waste of time!<o:p></o:p></span></li>
<li class="MsoNormal" style="color: black; margin: 0in 0in 0pt; mso-list: l0 level1 lfo1; mso-margin-bottom-alt: auto; mso-margin-top-alt: auto; tab-stops: list .5in;"><span style="font-family: Georgia;">Speaking of time: Use a calendar with a week at a glance that
breaks the days into house. Smartphones and computers have free calendar
programs like this or you can use a paper version. Block out your
activities and you will see the available hour you have to do the things
you have put off.<o:p></o:p></span></li>
<li class="MsoNormal" style="color: black; margin: 0in 0in 0pt; mso-list: l0 level1 lfo1; mso-margin-bottom-alt: auto; mso-margin-top-alt: auto; tab-stops: list .5in;"><span style="font-family: Georgia;">Clear the desk, counter, table or whatever you use for office
activities every night before going to bed. <o:p></o:p></span></li>
<li class="MsoNormal" style="color: black; margin: 0in 0in 0pt; mso-list: l0 level1 lfo1; mso-margin-bottom-alt: auto; mso-margin-top-alt: auto; tab-stops: list .5in;"><span style="font-family: Georgia;">If you would like more information on guidelines for saving
papers, I have a document I will send to you. Email me through my website:
<a href="http://www.orderlyplaces.com/"><span style="color: #341473;">www.OrderlyPlaces.com</span></a> and let
me know you want it. My book also has more detail on organizing your
papers, files and office. It is in your local library and can be purchased
online from Amazon or my website. <o:p></o:p></span></li>
</ul>
<br />
<div class="MsoNormal" style="margin: 0in 0in 0pt;">
<o:p> </o:p></div>
Mary Frances Ballardhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/09894098982869484191noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7640181261458137999.post-469565664146954342012-11-05T12:38:00.003-08:002012-11-05T12:38:51.745-08:00Organizing Tips for November<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhHT0wCw0SgU9U3W0tF5EYiozcyK3lHp79kuJoGht-zXdik9lWPm7ryWZhmeMQJSWbaTIKtlfy8ExZz7r0q1epfCQA1awpFX7wdAShdfHDeeXfWxPWshZoYxLNGno01Fb4ZW7fzYUhPM9I/s1600/Pantry.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="200" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhHT0wCw0SgU9U3W0tF5EYiozcyK3lHp79kuJoGht-zXdik9lWPm7ryWZhmeMQJSWbaTIKtlfy8ExZz7r0q1epfCQA1awpFX7wdAShdfHDeeXfWxPWshZoYxLNGno01Fb4ZW7fzYUhPM9I/s200/Pantry.jpg" width="150" /></a><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhI4YH-dScY2jgv5KCaLXXwCZKgOXVbYhS7VNA9Y14KGeOkkJ7wTFTLEtXbYLCWeE55UaEPJap_A8EFJrYFKhTI-ioYIofjnbk8KlgJfLyw9oMD-uNFKmgoNI4pmojJDZvhfK_jK2nwC8k/s1600/Kitchen+Pantry+Tools.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="150" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhI4YH-dScY2jgv5KCaLXXwCZKgOXVbYhS7VNA9Y14KGeOkkJ7wTFTLEtXbYLCWeE55UaEPJap_A8EFJrYFKhTI-ioYIofjnbk8KlgJfLyw9oMD-uNFKmgoNI4pmojJDZvhfK_jK2nwC8k/s200/Kitchen+Pantry+Tools.JPG" width="200" /></a></div>
<br />
Somewhere in cyberspace are the organizing tips for October. They did not appear as they should have when I signed in today. Perhaps they will appear as they were scheduled but just in case, I will post them again at the end of this post. It would be good to check over it if you are planning any special holiday meals.<br /><br />On to November!<v:shapetype coordsize="21600,21600" filled="f" id="_x0000_t75" o:preferrelative="t" o:spt="75" path="m@4@5l@4@11@9@11@9@5xe" stroked="f"><v:stroke joinstyle="miter"><v:formulas><v:f eqn="if lineDrawn pixelLineWidth 0"><v:f eqn="sum @0 1 0"><v:f eqn="sum 0 0 @1"><v:f eqn="prod @2 1 2"><v:f eqn="prod @3 21600 pixelWidth"><v:f eqn="prod @3 21600 pixelHeight"><v:f eqn="sum @0 0 1"><v:f eqn="prod @6 1 2"> </v:f></v:f></v:f></v:f></v:f></v:f></v:f></v:f></v:formulas></v:stroke></v:shapetype><br />
<div class="MsoNormal" style="margin: 0in 0in 0pt;">
With such a dramatic weather event to end this October, it is hard to get in gear for the winter holidays that are just around the corner.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>Inevitably they will come and planning ahead will make the tasks much easier.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>Here are several reminders plus strategies for getting your kitchen ready for the holidays.</div>
<br />
<div class="MsoNormal" style="margin: 0in 0in 0pt;">
To begin the kitchen organizing, spend some time going through the kitchen equipment.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>Now is a good time to donate or sell those pots, pans, small appliances, tools and utensils you do not use.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>If you have not used an item in the past year, it should not be taking up valuable real estate in your kitchen.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>Consider storing it in a more remote place in the house if you cannot part with it.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span></div>
<br />
<div class="MsoNormal" style="margin: 0in 0in 0pt;">
Inventory the pantry.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>If yours is normally full it will be difficult to add the special holiday items you need this time of the year.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>Check the expiration dates on spices and some staple items you have not used in a long time.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>Eliminate or use immediately all you can to make more storage space. </div>
<br />
<div class="MsoNormal" style="margin: 0in 0in 0pt;">
To organize it, use the trays, containers, turntables, and/or racks to help you group items in the same category together.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>Keep items you use everyday in the most convenient spaces.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>Small boxes, envelopes or packages should be grouped in clear containers so they are not lost on the shelving and can be easily accessed. If shelving is deep, use baskets or trays to hold items so they can be pulled forward to access items in the back.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>Finally, try to leave a few inches of empty space between categories of food on the shelves.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>This allows room for new items and also gives an appearance of order.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span></div>
<br />
<div class="MsoNormal" style="margin: 0in 0in 0pt;">
Make a list of what your holiday recipes require and what you will need during the next few weeks.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>Some special seasonal items will disappear from the grocery shelves before the holidays so shopping for those now will be advantageous.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>Check off all ingredients you already have so you do not duplicate items that will take up valuable shelving. </div>
<br />
<div class="MsoNormal" style="margin: 0in 0in 0pt;">
Keep records of all you holiday planning, meals, events and reminders for future holidays.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>It will make planning for next year so much easier.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>I have a folder (on my computer) with the menus, grocery lists, guest lists, etc. that I update every year.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>I print those out, take notes on the printed copies and then update my original files.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span></div>
<br />
<div class="MsoNormal" style="margin: 0in 0in 0pt;">
Have packages for mailing out of town ready to send.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>Some overseas deadlines occur in November.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>Even packages to domestic locations should be ready to ship by the end of the month.</div>
<br />
<div class="MsoNormal" style="margin: 0in 0in 0pt;">
Now is the best time for online shopping.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>Almost all stores are offering free shipping and the selection is better now than later.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>Be sure to save receipts until after the holiday so items can be returned if necessary and to validate any charges on future credit statements. <span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>It is a good idea to keep these in a special envelope, folder, box, basket, etc. designated only for them.</div>
<br />
<div class="MsoNormal" style="margin: 0in 0in 0pt;">
Last month we reminded you to purchase holiday cards if you are particular about them.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>Now is the time to address and get them ready to mail.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>Email greetings can wait until December.</div>
<br />
<div class="MsoNormal" style="margin: 0in 0in 0pt;">
And I can never stress this point enough:<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>If you choose to send a holiday newsletter, remember to keep it short and sweet.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>The shorter, the sweeter.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>No bragging is allowed; keep it newsy with love and appreciation for the input the recipients have had in your lives.</div>
<br />
<div class="MsoNormal" style="margin: 0in 0in 0pt;">
If you begin your holiday decorating early, be selective as you pull out the boxes of decorations.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>Pass on those items that you no longer like or use to save space and time.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>Permanent wreaths for the door can have the bow and a few leaves or flowers changed each season and will not have to be packed and stored.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>I purchase inexpensive wreath decorations for my permanent vine wreath each season and toss them after use.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>They are normally dirty or faded anyway.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span></div>
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Stand alone decorations specific to the holidays take lots of time in packing and unpacking each year and require more storage space.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>By simply adding decorative bows, etc. to lamps, candles, house plants, etc., you can make your home festive without needing extra storage bins and space after the holidays.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span></div>
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As I have advised every year, avoid shopping on Black Friday unless you absolutely must go and be sure to stick to your “needs” list.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>Going into the stores with their displays of special pricing, etc. is an emotional trap waiting for your hard earned cash.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>And all that stuff you don’t really need will clutter your house. <span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span></div>
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After years of getting up before dawn to hit the sales, I have learned it is much smarter to just stay home that weekend, get more sleep and decorate.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>If you love the adventure, if you only buy what you need and is on your list, and if you don’t mind crowds and insane traffic jams and parking, go for it and send me your stories! <a href="mailto:maryfrances@OrderlyPlaces.com"><span style="color: blue;">maryfrances@OrderlyPlaces.com</span></a></div>
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<o:p> <span style="color: orange;"><strong><span style="font-size: large;">Organizing Tips for October</span></strong></span></o:p></div>
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<o:p><span style="color: orange; font-size: medium;"><span style="color: black; font-size: x-small;"><strong></strong></span></span></o:p><span style="color: orange; font-size: medium;"></span></div>
<span style="color: orange;"><div class="MsoNormal" style="margin: 0in 0in 0pt;">
<span><span style="color: black;">Fall is officially here.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>In some parts of our country the weather may not show it, but it is time to get moving towards the season filled with decorating and entertaining.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>This month we will concentrate on getting the dining room and/or eating areas organized and ready for holiday entertainment.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span></span></span></div>
<ul style="margin-top: 0in;" type="disc"><span style="color: black;"></span>
<li class="MsoNormal" style="margin: 0in 0in 0pt; mso-list: l2 level1 lfo3; tab-stops: list .5in;"><span style="color: black;">If you have a dining room that is not used often, the table can become a dumping ground for items put there temporarily.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>What starts out as the mail mutates into miscellaneous things coming into the<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>house.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>Start today to make it off limits for the temporary put down.</span></li>
<span style="color: black;"></span>
<li class="MsoNormal" style="margin: 0in 0in 0pt; mso-list: l2 level1 lfo3; tab-stops: list .5in;"><span style="color: black;">Inventory your linens and purge what you haven’t used in years.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>If some hold sentimental value, see if someone in your family can use them and give them the honor they deserve.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>If some are in need of repair, make the decision to take care of that or to move them on.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>Remember removing those that you do not use will make more space for those that you love and use.</span></li>
<span style="color: black;"></span>
<li class="MsoNormal" style="margin: 0in 0in 0pt; mso-list: l2 level1 lfo3; tab-stops: list .5in;"><span style="color: black;">Look over your dinnerware and remove pieces that cannot be used because of chips or other damage. <span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>If there are odd pieces that cannot be used with other items, move them out, too.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>Complete sets that are stored in boxes and never opened should be sold, donated or given to someone who wants them.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span><span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>As with your linens, move on pieces that are simply taking up space.</span></li>
<span style="color: black;"></span><span style="color: black;"></span>
<li class="MsoNormal" style="margin: 0in 0in 0pt; mso-list: l3 level1 lfo2; tab-stops: list .5in; text-align: justify;"><span style="color: black;">Provide adequate seating for all those eating together.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>Folding chairs can be used and stored in a closet or other storage area afterwards.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>Wooden posts located on the wall of the garage can be used to hang them so they do not take up floor space.</span></li>
<span style="color: black;"></span>
<li class="MsoNormal" style="margin: 0in 0in 0pt; mso-list: l3 level1 lfo2; tab-stops: list .5in; text-align: justify;"><span style="color: black;">Cloth or paper napkins can be placed in an attractive basket, bowl or tray and serve as a centerpiece.</span></li>
<span style="color: black;"></span>
<li class="MsoNormal" style="margin: 0in 0in 0pt; mso-list: l3 level1 lfo2; tab-stops: list .5in; text-align: justify;"><span style="color: black;">Placemats are more versatile to use than tablecloths and can be left on the table as decorations or stacked in the center with a napkin basket. </span></li>
<span style="color: black;"></span>
<li class="MsoNormal" style="margin: 0in 0in 0pt; mso-list: l3 level1 lfo2; tab-stops: list .5in; text-align: justify;"><span style="color: black;">Dinnerware, flatware and serving pieces should be located in an area convenient to setting the table and replacing after clean up.</span></li>
<span style="color: black;"></span>
<li class="MsoNormal" style="margin: 0in 0in 0pt; mso-list: l3 level1 lfo2; tab-stops: list .5in; text-align: justify;"><span style="color: black;">Special occasion or seasonal dinnerware or silverware should be kept only if used and you have sufficient space for it.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>.</span></li>
<span style="color: black;"></span>
<li class="MsoNormal" style="margin: 0in 0in 0pt; mso-list: l3 level1 lfo2; tab-stops: list .5in; text-align: justify;"><span style="color: black;">Table cloths can be stored in shallow drawers or hung over a dowel or hanger covered with the empty roll from wrapping paper or paper towels.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>Slit the roll on one side and slip it over the rod.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>Hang it in a closet.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>This will prevent additional wrinkles.</span></li>
<span style="color: black;"></span>
<li class="MsoNormal" style="margin: 0in 0in 0pt; mso-list: l3 level1 lfo2; tab-stops: list .5in; text-align: justify;"><span style="color: black;">Additional linens can be stored in the drawers or shelves of dining room furniture such as chests or buffets.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>You may also use a linen closet if one exists.</span></li>
<span style="color: black;"></span>
<li class="MsoNormal" style="margin: 0in 0in 0pt; mso-list: l3 level1 lfo2; tab-stops: list .5in; text-align: justify;"><span style="color: black;">Consider placing a clothing chest with drawers in the dining room if no longer needed for clothing.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>It is ideal for linens.</span></li>
</ul>
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<span><span style="color: black;">Additional Activities to make the dining room more functional</span></span></div>
<ul style="margin-top: 0in;" type="disc"><span style="color: black;"></span>
<li class="MsoNormal" style="margin: 0in 0in 0pt; mso-list: l1 level1 lfo4; tab-stops: list .5in; text-align: justify;"><span style="color: black;">The dining table may be a good choice for homework if the room is good for studying.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>A tote with desk supplies may be used and then stored when the work is done.</span></li>
<span style="color: black;"></span>
<li class="MsoNormal" style="margin: 0in 0in 0pt; mso-list: l1 level1 lfo4; tab-stops: list .5in; text-align: justify;"><span><span style="color: black;">It may also used for craft projects or other art activities.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>Cover the table with a protective cloth, cutting board or plastic before using it. Portable storage for those supplies make it easier to clean the area when done.<o:p></o:p></span></span></li>
<span style="color: black;"></span><span style="color: black;"></span>
<li class="MsoNormal" style="margin: 0in 0in 0pt; mso-list: l3 level1 lfo2; tab-stops: list .5in; text-align: justify;"><span><span style="color: black;">If the family needs home office space, reserving a corner of the dining room for that activity is a good use of space.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>Choose a table or desk that compliments the other furnishings.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>Some items can be stored in the furniture already there or in rolling carts and file trolleys that can be moved to a nearby closet when not in use.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span></span></span></li>
<span style="color: black;"></span>
<li class="MsoNormal" style="margin: 0in 0in 0pt; mso-list: l3 level1 lfo2; tab-stops: list .5in; text-align: justify;"><span style="color: black;">If there is not space in the family room for board games and card playing, those items could be stored in the dining room for use there..</span></li>
<span style="color: black;"></span>
<li class="MsoNormal" style="margin: 0in 0in 0pt; mso-list: l3 level1 lfo2; tab-stops: list .5in; text-align: justify;"><span style="color: black;">When not used, keep the tops of buffets, chests and china cabinets clear and free of clutter..</span></li>
<span style="color: black;"></span>
<li class="MsoNormal" style="margin: 0in 0in 0pt; mso-list: l3 level1 lfo2; tab-stops: list .5in; text-align: justify;"><span style="color: black;">Keep the table attractive when not used with a centerpiece and/or tablecloth.</span></li>
<span style="color: black;"></span>
<li class="MsoNormal" style="margin: 0in 0in 0pt; mso-list: l3 level1 lfo2; tab-stops: list .5in; text-align: justify;"><span style="color: black;">Use washable decorative fabrics on surfaces to reduce the amount of dusting.</span></li>
<span style="color: black;"></span></ul>
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<span><span style="color: #333333;">The end of the month also brings Halloween and the Trick or Treat invaders.</span></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="margin: 0in 0in 0pt 0.75in; mso-list: l0 level1 lfo1; tab-stops: list .75in; text-indent: -0.25in;">
<span style="font-family: Symbol; mso-bidi-font-family: Symbol; mso-fareast-font-family: Symbol;"><span style="mso-list: Ignore;"><span style="color: black;"><span>·</span><span style="font-family: "Times New Roman"; font-size-adjust: none; font-stretch: normal; font-style: normal; font-variant: normal; font-weight: normal; line-height: normal;"> </span></span></span></span><span style="color: #333333;"><span><span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>First you want to be sure the pathway to your door is safe. Remember to clean the driveway, sidewalk, steps and porch while it is still daylight. Fallen leaves can be slippery especially whe<st1:personname w:st="on">n w</st1:personname>et so they should be removed as well as any toys, twigs, etc. Make sure this area is well lit by leaving your porch light and any other light fixtures on during the Trick or Treat hours. </span></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="margin: 0in 0in 0pt 0.75in; mso-list: l0 level1 lfo1; tab-stops: list .75in; text-indent: -0.25in;">
<span style="font-family: Symbol; mso-bidi-font-family: Symbol; mso-fareast-font-family: Symbol;"><span style="mso-list: Ignore;"><span style="color: black;"><span>·</span><span style="font-family: "Times New Roman"; font-size-adjust: none; font-stretch: normal; font-style: normal; font-variant: normal; font-weight: normal; line-height: normal;"> </span></span></span></span><span style="color: #333333;"><span>It is recommended that you give only individually pre-wrapped candy. Since this is the beginning of flu season, you should not allow each child to reach into your container to get the candy since each one could be contaminating the other pieces with his hands. Rather, you should choose and drop the candy into each child's bag yourself. </span></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="margin: 0in 0in 0pt 0.75in; mso-list: l0 level1 lfo1; tab-stops: list .75in; text-indent: -0.25in;">
<span style="font-family: Symbol; mso-bidi-font-family: Symbol; mso-fareast-font-family: Symbol;"><span style="mso-list: Ignore;"><span style="color: black;"><span>·</span><span style="font-family: "Times New Roman"; font-size-adjust: none; font-stretch: normal; font-style: normal; font-variant: normal; font-weight: normal; line-height: normal;"> </span></span></span></span><span style="color: #333333;"><span>As an extra precaution, you may want to use disinfecting wipes to clean your doorbell or door handles if you keep it closed between visitors. This can be done periodically during the evening or at the end when Trick or Treating is over. Keep hand sanitizer near the door and use it yourself as often as you think necessary.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>It is a shame we need to be so careful, but it is always better to be safe than sorry and we want to do our part in keeping our homes and neighbors as healthy and safe as possible.</span></span></div>
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<o:p><span style="color: black;"> </span></o:p></div>
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<o:p><span style="color: black;"> </span></o:p></div>
</span>Mary Frances Ballardhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/09894098982869484191noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7640181261458137999.post-80941379581443152512012-09-01T03:01:00.000-07:002012-09-01T03:01:46.357-07:00Organizing Checklist for September<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh2WN_OrHGZKS2W96yDvWwamOqgS77YVIkNwjw7lMPCft8YhUiCp_7_rLXc_aS8lflbl4nwDeB7lEId-DSQZuTXaXLJwk0WWjfuVtAjP06kMancfMtJoVmBsFDylV228hdK727o_QdfkXk/s1600/A.S.Closet+Final+Layout.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="150" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh2WN_OrHGZKS2W96yDvWwamOqgS77YVIkNwjw7lMPCft8YhUiCp_7_rLXc_aS8lflbl4nwDeB7lEId-DSQZuTXaXLJwk0WWjfuVtAjP06kMancfMtJoVmBsFDylV228hdK727o_QdfkXk/s200/A.S.Closet+Final+Layout.JPG" width="200" /></a></div>
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This month marks a shift in the thinking and planning for
many of us.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>Summer vacations are behind
us, we look forward to cooler temperatures and we plan for the upcoming
holidays.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>Below are some strategies to
help us make in organizing <b style="mso-bidi-font-weight: normal;">clothing and
closets</b>.</div>
<br />
<div class="MsoNormal" style="margin: 0in 0in 0pt;">
Most of us have attachments to our clothing, especially
those that were expensive.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>I have had
great success with a local <b style="mso-bidi-font-weight: normal;">consignment
store</b> and recommend them.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>It is less
hassle than a yard sale and you will get some return on your financial
investment.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span></div>
<br />
<div class="MsoNormal" style="margin: 0in 0in 0pt;">
Of course, I also recommend <b style="mso-bidi-font-weight: normal;">donating</b> to worthy charities.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;">
</span>Not only will you make your space more livable, but you will be helping
those who simply cannot afford purchasing clothing otherwise.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>It will be a double blessing!</div>
<br />
<div class="MsoNormal" style="margin: 0in 0in 0pt 27pt; mso-list: l0 level1 lfo1; tab-stops: list 27.0pt; text-indent: -0.25in;">
<span style="font-family: "Courier New"; mso-fareast-font-family: "Courier New";"><span style="mso-list: Ignore;">o<span style="font-size-adjust: none; font-stretch: normal; font: 7pt/normal "Times New Roman";"> </span></span></span>In
the closet, remove all empty hangers first.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;">
</span>Look at each piece of clothing and make a decision to sort as follows:</div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="margin: 0in 0in 0pt 1in; mso-list: l0 level2 lfo1; tab-stops: list 1.0in; text-indent: -0.25in;">
<span style="font-family: "Courier New"; mso-fareast-font-family: "Courier New";"><span style="mso-list: Ignore;">o<span style="font-size-adjust: none; font-stretch: normal; font: 7pt/normal "Times New Roman";"> </span></span></span><b style="mso-bidi-font-weight: normal;">It fits, I wear it</b>—leave it in the
closet </div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="margin: 0in 0in 0pt 1in; mso-list: l0 level2 lfo1; tab-stops: list 1.0in; text-indent: -0.25in;">
<span style="font-family: "Courier New"; mso-fareast-font-family: "Courier New";"><span style="mso-list: Ignore;">o<span style="font-size-adjust: none; font-stretch: normal; font: 7pt/normal "Times New Roman";"> </span></span></span><b style="mso-bidi-font-weight: normal;">It does not fit</b>—donate/sell pile.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>It will probably be out of style when it does
fit.</div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="margin: 0in 0in 0pt 1in; mso-list: l0 level2 lfo1; tab-stops: list 1.0in; text-indent: -0.25in;">
<span style="font-family: "Courier New"; mso-fareast-font-family: "Courier New";"><span style="mso-list: Ignore;">o<span style="font-size-adjust: none; font-stretch: normal; font: 7pt/normal "Times New Roman";"> </span></span></span><b style="mso-bidi-font-weight: normal;">It needs repair</b>--if it is useful, place
in a repair pile.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>If not repaired in one
month, remove it.</div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="margin: 0in 0in 0pt 1in; mso-list: l0 level2 lfo1; tab-stops: list 1.0in; text-indent: -0.25in;">
<span style="font-family: "Courier New"; mso-fareast-font-family: "Courier New";"><span style="mso-list: Ignore;">o<span style="font-size-adjust: none; font-stretch: normal; font: 7pt/normal "Times New Roman";"> </span></span></span><b style="mso-bidi-font-weight: normal;">I do not wear it or like it</b>—donate/sell
pile</div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="margin: 0in 0in 0pt 1in; mso-list: l0 level2 lfo1; tab-stops: list 1.0in; text-indent: -0.25in;">
<span style="font-family: "Courier New"; mso-fareast-font-family: "Courier New";"><span style="mso-list: Ignore;">o<span style="font-size-adjust: none; font-stretch: normal; font: 7pt/normal "Times New Roman";"> </span></span></span><b style="mso-bidi-font-weight: normal;">I am not sure</b>--place in separate pile,
label and date.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>If not worn in one year,
donate/sell.</div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="margin: 0in 0in 0pt 27pt; mso-list: l0 level1 lfo1; tab-stops: list 27.0pt; text-indent: -0.25in;">
<span style="font-family: "Courier New"; mso-fareast-font-family: "Courier New";"><span style="mso-list: Ignore;">o<span style="font-size-adjust: none; font-stretch: normal; font: 7pt/normal "Times New Roman";"> </span></span></span>Clean
the closet area, and reconfigure the rods, shelves if needed or desired.</div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="margin: 0in 0in 0pt 27pt; mso-list: l0 level1 lfo1; tab-stops: list 27.0pt; text-indent: -0.25in;">
<span style="font-family: "Courier New"; mso-fareast-font-family: "Courier New";"><span style="mso-list: Ignore;">o<span style="font-size-adjust: none; font-stretch: normal; font: 7pt/normal "Times New Roman";"> </span></span></span>Additional
hanging space can be made by installing an adjustable hanging rod.</div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="margin: 0in 0in 0pt 27pt; mso-list: l0 level1 lfo1; tab-stops: list 27.0pt; text-indent: -0.25in;">
<span style="font-family: "Courier New"; mso-fareast-font-family: "Courier New";"><span style="mso-list: Ignore;">o<span style="font-size-adjust: none; font-stretch: normal; font: 7pt/normal "Times New Roman";"> </span></span></span>Replace
wire hangers with more suitable ones but save a few if needed in garment bags
when traveling.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>Orderly Places has a tip
sheet on types of closet hangers.</div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="margin: 0in 0in 0pt 27pt; mso-list: l0 level1 lfo1; tab-stops: list 27.0pt; text-indent: -0.25in;">
<span style="font-family: "Courier New"; mso-fareast-font-family: "Courier New";"><span style="mso-list: Ignore;">o<span style="font-size-adjust: none; font-stretch: normal; font: 7pt/normal "Times New Roman";"> </span></span></span>On
closet shelves, clamp on dividers can be used to separate clothing or they can
be placed in suitable containers.</div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="margin: 0in 0in 0pt 27pt; mso-list: l0 level1 lfo1; tab-stops: list 27.0pt; text-indent: -0.25in;">
<span style="font-family: "Courier New"; mso-fareast-font-family: "Courier New";"><span style="mso-list: Ignore;">o<span style="font-size-adjust: none; font-stretch: normal; font: 7pt/normal "Times New Roman";"> </span></span></span>Use
hanging racks for the backs of doors or on rods to store bulky or specialty
items.</div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="margin: 0in 0in 0pt 27pt; mso-list: l0 level1 lfo1; tab-stops: list 27.0pt; text-indent: -0.25in;">
<span style="font-family: "Courier New"; mso-fareast-font-family: "Courier New";"><span style="mso-list: Ignore;">o<span style="font-size-adjust: none; font-stretch: normal; font: 7pt/normal "Times New Roman";"> </span></span></span>As
you return items, sort the clothes you will wear and keep by type-blouses,
pants, dresses, skirts, etc. Sub sort these by colors as much as possible.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>Place items worn together with each other.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>This makes it easier to know what you have
and find items easier.</div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="margin: 0in 0in 0pt 27pt; mso-list: l0 level1 lfo1; tab-stops: list 27.0pt; text-indent: -0.25in;">
<span style="font-family: "Courier New"; mso-fareast-font-family: "Courier New";"><span style="mso-list: Ignore;">o<span style="font-size-adjust: none; font-stretch: normal; font: 7pt/normal "Times New Roman";"> </span></span></span>Look
at what you have and make a list of items you really need but are not there for
future purchases.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span><b style="mso-bidi-font-weight: normal;">Determine to buy only what is on your list. </b><span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>One suggestion is to limit the number of
prints and multi color designs and use mainly solids.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>This allows more flexibility in creating
outfits and using accessories.</div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="margin: 0in 0in 0pt 27pt; mso-list: l0 level1 lfo1; tab-stops: list 27.0pt; text-indent: -0.25in;">
<span style="font-family: "Courier New"; mso-fareast-font-family: "Courier New";"><span style="mso-list: Ignore;">o<span style="font-size-adjust: none; font-stretch: normal; font: 7pt/normal "Times New Roman";"> </span></span></span>Clothing
in drawers or chests or on shelving should be organized with the same process
as with closets. <span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>Use dividers or
containers to separate categories, colors, etc. in the drawers.</div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="margin: 0in 0in 0pt 27pt; mso-list: l0 level1 lfo1; tab-stops: list 27.0pt; text-indent: -0.25in;">
<span style="font-family: "Courier New"; mso-fareast-font-family: "Courier New";"><span style="mso-list: Ignore;">o<span style="font-size-adjust: none; font-stretch: normal; font: 7pt/normal "Times New Roman";"> </span></span></span>Some
clothing can be rolled rather than folded to make sorting and access easier.</div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="margin: 0in 0in 0pt 27pt; mso-list: l0 level1 lfo1; tab-stops: list 27.0pt; text-indent: -0.25in;">
<span style="font-family: "Courier New"; mso-fareast-font-family: "Courier New";"><span style="mso-list: Ignore;">o<span style="font-size-adjust: none; font-stretch: normal; font: 7pt/normal "Times New Roman";"> </span></span></span>Shoes
can be stored on hanging sorters or under shorter clothing in racks or
shelves.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>If they are stored in boxes,
use clear plastic or label with pictures or descriptions.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>I also recommend sturdy under the bed
containers for off season shoes.</div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="margin: 0in 0in 0pt 27pt; mso-list: l0 level1 lfo1; tab-stops: list 27.0pt; text-indent: -0.25in;">
<span style="font-family: "Courier New"; mso-fareast-font-family: "Courier New";"><span style="mso-list: Ignore;">o<span style="font-size-adjust: none; font-stretch: normal; font: 7pt/normal "Times New Roman";"> </span></span></span>Evaluate
the accessories you have to determine if they are still usable.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>I had quite a collection of scarves back when
Oprah made them popular and finally gave them up after taking my own advice.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>They still have not made a comeback and if
they do, they will be different, I am sure.</div>
<br />
<div class="MsoNormal" style="margin: 0in 0in 0pt 9pt;">
<b style="mso-bidi-font-weight: normal;">Additional unrelated tips:</b></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="margin: 0in 0in 0pt 9pt;">
In the next month or so, stock up
on cold and flu products.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>It is often difficult
to find those you prefer when they are needed most.</div>
<br />
<div class="MsoNormal" style="margin: 0in 0in 0pt 9pt;">
As much as I hate it, now is the
time to plan for the holidays.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>Pencil in
some activities, gifts, meals, etc. in your planner.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>More tips will follow in the months to come.</div>
Mary Frances Ballardhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/09894098982869484191noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7640181261458137999.post-79990768953958351882012-08-02T06:55:00.000-07:002012-08-02T06:55:01.698-07:00Organizing Tips for August<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
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<img alt="" class="rg_hi uh_hi" data-height="251" data-width="201" height="251" id="rg_hi" src="https://encrypted-tbn0.google.com/images?q=tbn:ANd9GcRASpJNb5GKqMi7Cc-jGI6fc4_SzGUb0thlF4L3B_qJ7WfNVkuK3Q" style="height: 251px; width: 201px;" width="201" /> </div>
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<div style="text-align: center;">
<span style="font-size: x-small;">Illustration from marthastewart.com</span></div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
</div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="margin: 0in 0in 0pt;">
<span style="color: black; font-family: Georgia;">There are two areas that benefit from organizing in August: school and office.<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<span style="color: black; font-family: Georgia;"><br /><strong><span style="font-family: Georgia;">Many states have a weekend of freedom from sales tax</span></strong> to help with school supplies.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>Many office and stationery supplies are covered, too.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>These stores will identify covered items for you. In <st1:state w:st="on"><st1:place w:st="on">Virginia</st1:place></st1:state>the tax holiday is the first weekend in August. </span><strong><span lang="EN" style="color: black; font-family: Arial; mso-ansi-language: EN;">What's Exempt: </span></strong><span lang="EN" style="color: black; font-family: Arial; mso-ansi-language: EN;">During this three-day period, in general purchases of qualifying school supplies selling for $20 or less per item, and purchases of qualifying clothing and footwear selling for $100 or less per item will be exempt from sales tax.</span><span style="color: black; font-family: Georgia;"><o:p></o:p></span><br />
<span style="color: black; font-family: Georgia;"><br /><strong><span style="font-family: Georgia;">Most stores have increased their inventory of school and office supplies</span></strong>.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>You can find a better selection and better prices this month. Make a list and try to find those things you need while there are good choices. <span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>Plan ahead for consumable items like printer paper, notepads, etc.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>Be sure you have room to store these items.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>For children, check the supply list created by the specific school or teacher.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span><o:p></o:p></span><br />
<br />
<div class="MsoNormal" style="margin: 0in 0in 0pt;">
<b style="mso-bidi-font-weight: normal;"><span style="color: black; font-family: Georgia;">Clean out stationery and office items that are no longer useful or in disrepair.</span></b><span style="color: black; font-family: Georgia;"> <span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>Organizing your files is a great indoor activity when the weather is too hot for outside work.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span><span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>Look for free shredding events in your area to dispose of confidential papers without burning up your shredder.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>We have personal experience in that activity!<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<br />
<div class="MsoNormal" style="margin: 0in 0in 0pt;">
<strong><span style="color: black; font-family: Georgia;">Think ahead in purchasing children’s clothing</span></strong><span style="color: black; font-family: Georgia;">. My oldest child grew 3” the first two months of his 9th grade year. The clothes I purchased early in August to get the best selectio<st1:personname w:st="on">n w</st1:personname>ere too small in October. (This was before long baggie pants were acceptable.)<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span><br /><br /><strong><span style="font-family: Georgia;">If you plan on having a yard sale in the fall, begin planning now.</span></strong> Start gathering items that you need to move on, clean and price them. Young children have probably outgrown last year’s school attire. Take an inventory to see what you can sell or donate now. As colder weather and winter approach, you may need to take another look at heavier clothing to see what can be eliminated.<br /><br /><strong><span style="font-family: Georgia;">Go to Craig’s list or EBay to determine a reasonable price for selling your items.</span></strong> In fact, you may want to put some of the items up for sale on those sites now so they won’t take up storage space in your home. If you want to joi<st1:personname w:st="on">n w</st1:personname>ith others in a sale, pick a date now that is good for everyone. Remember, you can always donate items to a local thrift store or charity and possibly bless someone less fortunate. It is good to pay forward.</span></div>
</div>Mary Frances Ballardhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/09894098982869484191noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7640181261458137999.post-87572926606830047312012-07-01T20:00:00.003-07:002012-07-01T20:00:45.464-07:00Organizing Tips for July<br />
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgj_3LRCP3twQ2_gZrEddDzhv92H27W0IQUlvOgGa7V9FWba0WwgSDcH2X8fR0e-AMQexjupogH0YPooNGiA6wE5G4MO1OP1GUiOmZeIL9JXb_yABo8fqIb7bOK-HDYF-7_6wHSoibGEZo/s1600/10+Overdoor+Elfa+Media+Rack.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="200" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgj_3LRCP3twQ2_gZrEddDzhv92H27W0IQUlvOgGa7V9FWba0WwgSDcH2X8fR0e-AMQexjupogH0YPooNGiA6wE5G4MO1OP1GUiOmZeIL9JXb_yABo8fqIb7bOK-HDYF-7_6wHSoibGEZo/s200/10+Overdoor+Elfa+Media+Rack.JPG" width="85" /></a></div>
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<span style="font-size: xx-small;">Elfa Over Door Media Storage</span></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<span style="font-size: xx-small;">from The Container Store</span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="margin: 0in 0in 0pt;">
<b style="mso-bidi-font-weight: normal;"><span style="font-size: 18pt;"><o:p></o:p></span></b></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="margin: 0in 0in 0pt 0.25in;">
<span style="mso-tab-count: 1;"> </span>It
is July and it is hot and humid as always.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;">
</span>I wonder if we spend as much time in air conditioning in the summer as
we do the heated rooms in the winter.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;">
</span>Since we are enjoying our <b style="mso-bidi-font-weight: normal;">living
rooms, family rooms or dens</b>, let’s get them organized this month.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>Here are some tips that might be helpful to
you.</div>
<br />
<ul style="margin-top: 0in;" type="disc">
<li class="MsoNormal" style="margin: 0in 0in 0pt; mso-list: l5 level1 lfo1; tab-stops: list .5in;">Arrange
electronic items such as televisions, CD and DVD players and video games
in one area so the wires and cables can be contained together. </li>
<li class="MsoNormal" style="margin: 0in 0in 0pt; mso-list: l3 level1 lfo2; tab-stops: list .5in;">Label
each end of cables and wires related to the computer and other electronic
equipment.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>It will save much time
in connecting or reconnecting</li>
<li class="MsoNormal" style="margin: 0in 0in 0pt; mso-list: l3 level1 lfo2; tab-stops: list .5in;">Use
wire baskets that can be mounted under shelves or cable ties to contain
wires.</li>
<li class="MsoNormal" style="margin: 0in 0in 0pt; mso-list: l3 level1 lfo2; tab-stops: list .5in;">Purge
videos, CDs and DVDs that are no longer used.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>Sell or donate them to a local charity,
nursing home or hospital.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>If you
want to locate one again, they can be rented or borrowed from local
libraries.</li>
<li class="MsoNormal" style="margin: 0in 0in 0pt; mso-list: l3 level1 lfo2; tab-stops: list .5in;">Renting
or borrowing movies and games is an excellent organizational choice and
sets a good example for your children in managing finances and spaces.</li>
<li class="MsoNormal" style="margin: 0in 0in 0pt; mso-list: l3 level1 lfo2; tab-stops: list .5in;">Store
CDs and DVDs in their case vertically on shallow shelves or if space is
limited, they can be removed from the case and placed in notebooks or
cases with plastic sleeves.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>Sort
and arrange by category.</li>
<li class="MsoNormal" style="margin: 0in 0in 0pt; mso-list: l3 level1 lfo2; tab-stops: list .5in;">Videos
can be stored vertically on shelves or in shoe box type containers.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>Do not stack flat as accessing those on
the bottom is more difficult.</li>
<li class="MsoNormal" style="margin: 0in 0in 0pt; mso-list: l4 level1 lfo3; tab-stops: list .5in;">Remotes
and game joysticks should be contained in a basket, decorative box or
container designed specifically for them.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;">
</span>Keep them within easy reach of the chair or sofa.</li>
<li class="MsoNormal" style="margin: 0in 0in 0pt; mso-list: l4 level1 lfo3; tab-stops: list .5in;">Place
a table or shelf near every seating area.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;">
</span>Large coffee tables can take the place of several small end
tables.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>Choose one with storage
shelves, cabinet doors or drawers. </li>
<li class="MsoNormal" style="margin: 0in 0in 0pt; mso-list: l4 level1 lfo3; tab-stops: list .5in;">Provide
an area for playing with toys if you allow that activity.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>A lower cabinet can be used to store
those items or they can be taken back to the bedroom in a tote box or
rolling crate.</li>
<li class="MsoNormal" style="margin: 0in 0in 0pt; mso-list: l0 level1 lfo4; tab-stops: list .5in;">For
reading areas be sure to have a comfortable chair with adequate lighting
and a place to store books, magazines, newspapers, etc.</li>
<li class="MsoNormal" style="margin: 0in 0in 0pt; mso-list: l0 level1 lfo4; tab-stops: list .5in;">Books
should be purged from bookcases.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;">
</span>Keeping fiction books that you have read serves no purpose except
to prove you own them.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>Sell or
donate them knowing you can borrow it from the library if you have time to
read it again.</li>
<li class="MsoNormal" style="margin: 0in 0in 0pt; mso-list: l0 level1 lfo4; tab-stops: list .5in;">Non-fiction
books should be grouped by category.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;">
</span>Since information is always changing, using older books as
reference many not provide recent findings.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>Let them go and use the Internet to find
the latest information.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>The books
are not your brain and letting them go will not cause you to forget what
you have learned.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>(Old age,
however, may cause you to forget.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>I
speak from experience once again.) </li>
<li class="MsoNormal" style="margin: 0in 0in 0pt; mso-list: l0 level1 lfo4; tab-stops: list .5in;">Sets
of encyclopedias are dated the moment you get them.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>Use the Internet or library for
research.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>Use their encyclopedias
if you want to teach your children how to use them.</li>
<li class="MsoNormal" style="margin: 0in 0in 0pt; mso-list: l0 level1 lfo4; tab-stops: list .5in;">Make
friends with the library.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>It is a
wonderful place of knowledge and entertainment for your children and
prevents book clutter from residing in your house.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>Most offer excellent programs for adults
and children.</li>
<li class="MsoNormal" style="margin: 0in 0in 0pt; mso-list: l0 level1 lfo4; tab-stops: list .5in;">Mix
books, plants, attractive storage containers or photographs on bookshelves
for more interesting arrangements.</li>
<li class="MsoNormal" style="margin: 0in 0in 0pt; mso-list: l1 level1 lfo5; tab-stops: list .5in;">Upper
bookcase shelves and over the window shelving can be used to display
collectables and photographs.</li>
<li class="MsoNormal" style="margin: 0in 0in 0pt; mso-list: l1 level1 lfo5; tab-stops: list .5in;">Collections
of similar items are more attractive when grouped together in displays. </li>
<li class="MsoNormal" style="margin: 0in 0in 0pt; mso-list: l1 level1 lfo5; tab-stops: list .5in;">Keep
an attractive container with pens, pencils, note pad and scissors in a
convenient location in case they are needed.</li>
<li class="MsoNormal" style="margin: 0in 0in 0pt; mso-list: l1 level1 lfo5; tab-stops: list .5in;">Card
tables can be used for board games, craft activities or other
projects.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>When you are finished it
can be folded and stored under the sofa, behind large furniture or in a
nearby closet.</li>
<li class="MsoNormal" style="margin: 0in 0in 0pt; mso-list: l2 level1 lfo6; tab-stops: list .5in;">If the
family office is located in this room, reserve a space for a table or
desk.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>A drawer or attractive
containers can hold desk supplies.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span></li>
<li class="MsoNormal" style="margin: 0in 0in 0pt; mso-list: l2 level1 lfo6; tab-stops: list .5in;">If a
computer will be located in this room, consider placing a wireless system
in your home to eliminate having to connect all of the components with
cables.</li>
</ul>
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<div class="MsoNormal" style="margin: 0in 0in 0pt 0.25in;">
<br /></div>
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<div class="MsoNormal" style="margin: 0in 0in 0pt;">
<br /></div>Mary Frances Ballardhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/09894098982869484191noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7640181261458137999.post-46753341007368303792012-05-31T09:01:00.001-07:002012-05-31T09:01:45.345-07:00Organizing Tips for June<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><img alt="" class="rg_hi uh_hi" data-height="245" data-width="206" height="245" id="rg_hi" src="https://encrypted-tbn1.google.com/images?q=tbn:ANd9GcTTQnkEBNsQFPYOtUG-7aruW-7f5ume7FaovwpqVPlv_7vsD8ToGQ" style="height: 245px; margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; width: 206px;" width="206" /></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Illustration from RealSimple.com</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
<div align="center">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="margin: 0in 0in 0pt;">
June is filled with activities and it is difficult to think
about organizing.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>The best approach is
to work in the areas that are already requiring time.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>Since it is the end of the school year and
the children or grandchildren will be around, one subject to consider is their
spaces and the keepsakes you have been saving for them.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>Of course travel is on the mind of most of us,
too.</div>
<br />
<div class="MsoNormal" style="margin: 0in 0in 0pt;">
An avalanche of school papers may be arriving for you to
handle this month.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>My best advice is to
let the child decide which to keep.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>Keepsake
boxes or binders can be used for these.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>Give
one to each child and let it be the only place for special saved items.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>If it gets too full, let the child decide
what to keep and what can go.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>Resist the
urge to get more or bigger boxes.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>Think
about how many things you really need from your childhood to remember the good
times.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>Of course there are items they
have made that you will store with your keepsakes, but be selective.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span></div>
<br />
<div class="MsoNormal" style="margin: 0in 0in 0pt;">
Children now have time to go through their rooms and
eliminate items they have not used or no longer want or like.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>Clothing that no longer fits can be sorted
for sale or donation.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>Children grow
quickly and by fall most of what they wore during the past year will not fit.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>Thankfully not much variety in clothing is
need for the summer months.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>If you are
storing them for younger siblings, remember to label them as to sex, size and
season.</div>
<br />
<div class="MsoNormal" style="margin: 0in 0in 0pt;">
Children need limits on everything except love and
affection.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>They should not be allowed to
collect an unlimited amount of matchbox cars, Barbie clothes, t-shirts,
flip-flops or anything else.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>Let the space
determine how much can be easily organized in the given space and draw the line
there.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>You will be teaching them good
organizing habits and a lesson that there are limits in life.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>Should they want a new item, remind them
something they already have must go.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;">
</span>This is the “one in—one out” rule that we all should follow.</div>
<br />
<div class="MsoNormal" style="margin: 0in 0in 0pt;">
Too many of anything means none of them are special.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>This includes collections such as china,
dolls, salt and pepper shakers, stamps, etc.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;">
</span>If space is limited and many of these items are stored in the attic or
closets, consider saving only those that have special meaning and letting the
remainder go to other family members or donate or sell them to anyone else who
will appreciate them and has room for them.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;">
</span>Storing keepsakes out of site does not honor or respect the memories that
go with them.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>Put those that you choose
to keep in a place where they can be enjoyed and given the honor and respect
they deserve.</div>
<br />
<div class="MsoNormal" style="margin: 0in 0in 0pt;">
Photographs are another source of keepsake clutter.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>Save only the best from each activity.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>No one needs 100 pictures of the beach
vacation.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>A few special pictures are all
that is needed to capture that special time.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;">
</span>There are lots of ways to sort and save them in colorful scrapbooks and
online in creative formats.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>I am not a
scrapbooker, but I do admire the projects and products available from Creative
Memories and other sources.</div>
<br />
<div class="MsoNormal" style="margin: 0in 0in 0pt;">
Make a point of enjoying the outdoors while the weather is
nice.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>Keep outdoor umbrellas closed when
not in use.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>It will extend their
usefulness and prevent damage during high winds or thunderstorms.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>I have personal experience with this one.</div>
<br />
<div class="MsoNormal" style="margin: 0in 0in 0pt;">
And speaking of storms, this is the beginning of hurricane
season.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>If you live in an area affected
by hurricanes, high winds or rising waters, you should review the list of
necessary emergency items and secure those now.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;">
</span>Be sure to update your household inventory.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>More information on it can be found on a
previous Blog I posted:<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> <a href="http://organizingtipsfromorderlyplaces.blogspot.com/2009/06/pictures-for-inventory.html">http://organizingtipsfromorderlyplaces.blogspot.com/2009/06/pictures-for-inventory.html</a></span></div>
<br />
<div class="MsoNormal" style="margin: 0in 0in 0pt;">
If you will be traveling this summer, create a permanent
travel kit with activities for yourself and family.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>If it is only used for travel, the items will
appear to be almost new and more interesting.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;">
</span></div>
<br />
<div class="MsoNormal" style="margin: 0in 0in 0pt;">
If you travel often and if you have storage space, create a
permanent supply box or bag with items you always need.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>Some of these may be duplicates of items you
use everyday at home but you will not need to disturb those.</div>
<br />
<div class="MsoNormal" style="margin: 0in 0in 0pt;">
A permanent travel checklist that you keep on your computer
or in a convenient notebook is a great strategy to prevent forgetting items you
always need.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>I keep one just for quilt
retreats, my favorite travel experience!<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;">
</span></div>
<br />
<div class="MsoNormal" style="margin: 0in 0in 0pt;">
For information on organizing your suitcase, check out this
article I posted for the local newspaper: </div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="margin: 0in 0in 0pt;">
<span style="color: blue;"><a href="http://hrblogs.typepad.com/homeandgarden/2011/05/organizing-your-suitcase.html">http://hrblogs.typepad.com/homeandgarden/2011/05/organizing-your-suitcase.html</a></span></div>
<br />
<div class="MsoNormal" style="margin: 0in 0in 0pt;">
Enjoy this month of weddings, graduations, flowers and
outdoor opportunities.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>June is special
in many ways.</div>Mary Frances Ballardhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/09894098982869484191noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7640181261458137999.post-13993884083285625772012-05-12T08:38:00.000-07:002012-05-12T08:38:07.754-07:00Organizing Your Car<div style="text-align: center;">
<a href="http://renproducts.en.ec21.com/Sell_Car_Organizer_Trunk_Organizer--2564365_2580153.html" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img alt="Sell Car Organizer, Trunk Organizer, Car Accessory" border="0" height="200" src="http://image.ec21.com/image/renproducts/simg_GC02564365_CA02580153/Sell_Car_Organizer_Trunk_Organizer.jpg" width="188" /></a><a href="http://img.tootoo.com/mytootoo/upload/55/555673/product/555673_1bbce17e2dd5a8ae630580338013a205.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: right; float: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: 1em;"><img border="0" height="200" id="il_fi" src="http://img.tootoo.com/mytootoo/upload/55/555673/product/555673_1bbce17e2dd5a8ae630580338013a205.jpg" style="padding-bottom: 8px; padding-right: 8px; padding-top: 8px;" width="200" /></a><img height="200" id="il_fi" src="http://image.dhgate.com/upload/20106/87/ff80808125e43f15012602e5ec250038/productimg1277035971715.jpg" style="padding-bottom: 8px; padding-right: 8px; padding-top: 8px;" width="127" /></div>
Some of us would argue we live in our cars. And it appears the more space it has, the more stuff we carry in it. If you transport young children, then the amount grows exponentially. <br />
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With the recent empahsis on organizing, I have found there is a plethora of products to help us keep order within our vehicles. The pictures above are some of those I found online but any automotive parts store or section in local box stores has them, too. While I am all about using products designed for specific tasks, I think some everyday products we already have could be useful in containing and separating car stuff. <br />
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One problem I have is keeping food from rolling out of the plastic or cloth grocery bags as I drive from the store. Most are too full or awkward to tie up and it seems every stop and go releases at least one item from those bags. Some vehicles have hooks installed on the back of seats to hang bags, but since many do not, I am recommending using totes, boxes or bins with firm sides to hold those flimsy bags. The totes that fold down flat when not in use are especially convenient. One large plastic bin would keep several bags secure and can be used for sporting equipment, emergency supplies, etc.<br />
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For items you like to have handy while you are on the road, there are organizers that fit on the seats, between the seats and hang over the seats. The style that hangs on the back of the seat in from of children seem to be popular for storing items children can access to keep them occupied and happy. I am certainly in favor of those. I use a dishpan between the front seats in my van to hold a box of tissues, pens, paper, a toiletries bag (be prepared is my motto, too) and a water bottle. It is waterproof and easy to move in and out. Other specifically designed products have dividers to help keep items organized. I recommend any of them, too. <br />
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If attractiveness is a high priority or if your car is used for business and you want to apprear more professional, there are product lines that have matching sets of totes, boxes and bins. These are good investments if you plan to keep and use them for longer periods of time. <br />
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This discussion could not be complete, however, without mentioning the importance of maintenance. Like any other space, it is important to continually monitor the amount and types of things in the car. Clean out items you no longer need or use, eliminate trash that may collect in the containers and wipe up any spills before stains become a problem. Even grit and dirt can accumulate causing wear and tear. <br />
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Items that roll around in the car as you drive can be a distractions and even worse dangerous. Containers are a great way to keep the interior and trunk of the car in order. Find some that work for your situation and put them to use.Mary Frances Ballardhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/09894098982869484191noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7640181261458137999.post-77775122880424773532012-04-30T08:24:00.001-07:002012-04-30T08:25:01.104-07:00Organizing Tips for May<div align="center">
<img alt="" class="rg_hi uh_hi" data-height="194" data-width="259" height="194" id="rg_hi" src="https://encrypted-tbn1.google.com/images?q=tbn:ANd9GcSJ-2Sk1gc8iY5ncqjKAU7ZHqo4ZGFS1DS43MlvJY2ypQFlQmVW" style="height: 194px; width: 259px;" width="259" /></div>
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No one wants to be inside in the month of May.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>Flowers have been blooming, the weather is
mostly nice and we are tired of being in the house.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>This is a good time to work on organizing the
garage and getting the outdoors ready for summer activities.</div>
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Since the<b style="mso-bidi-font-weight: normal;"> Garage </b>is
never first on our list of projects, let’s begin there<b style="mso-bidi-font-weight: normal;">.</b><span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>During the winter it often
becomes a temporary dumping ground for items. <span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>If this is the spouse’s territory, be sure to
work together as a team.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>God forbid that
you should purge or arrange items that were “special”.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>I have found the most effective way to
motivate a spouse is to begin purging and organizing your things.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>Sometimes the guilt factor is
motivating.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>Sometimes.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>Regardless, you never really can win a battle
with a spouse. </div>
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Take advantage of systems that will allow you to organize
your items off the floor. <span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>It is much
easier and faster to clean with fewer items on it.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span><span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>For
pennies or hundreds of dollars, you can invest in organizing solutions that
will work for you.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>Check out the home
improvement stores for hooks, peg boards or shelving units to hold items that
are now stacked on the floor. Be sure to label bins and cardboard boxes used
for storage.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span></div>
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Move out items you no longer need.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>Only things you continually use should be
kept.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>Boxes of old magazines,
newspapers, etc. should be recycled.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;">
</span>Let’s face it.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>You didn’t have time
to read them before and you won’t later on.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;">
</span>There are too many new ideas coming at us everyday and those articles
are outdated. </div>
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Review the sporting equipment to see if it is still
needed.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>Move on any you no longer use. <span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>For those you save, look for specialty hooks,
bags and shelves to store those.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>Be sure
to keep children’s things at lower levels so they can access them without your
help.</div>
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A great plan would be to make room for the car if you have
not already done this.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>Your automobile
is probably the second most expensive investment you have made so take care of
it.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>Mark off a space for it on the
floor.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>Identify a wall item or hang a
string or chain from the ceiling as a marker for how far you should pull
forward.</div>
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If <b style="mso-bidi-font-weight: normal;">outdoor, yard or
garden</b> items are kept in the garage, garden tools and accessories<b style="mso-bidi-font-weight: normal;">, </b>look over each one<b style="mso-bidi-font-weight: normal;">.</b><span style="mso-spacerun: yes;">
</span>Remove rusted, broken or stained plant containers, stepping stones and
other garden fixtures.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>Create racks or
hooks for the tools and locate them together in one area.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>Specialty items are also available to hang
rakes, shovels, etc. so they do not get tangled together or take up floor
space.</div>
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Outdoor furniture may need to be cleaned before using, so
check over each piece.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>Toys that are
outgrown or no longer needed can be moved on.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;">
</span>If you have water sports equipment or pool accessories, try to store
those in good condition in their own area for convenience when they are
needed.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span></div>
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Yard art is becoming very popular but be careful you do not
allow it to take over.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>It can become
clutter just like anything else.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>There
is nothing more beautiful then flowering or luscious plants, shrubs and trees,
so make them your focal point.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>Adding
hanging baskets or a border of blooming flowers can make a significant impact.</div>
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Once your garage is cleaned, you may consider a <b style="mso-bidi-font-weight: normal;">Garage or Yard Sale</b>.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>Here are some reminders.</div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="margin: 0in 0in 0pt;">
**Collect, clean and repair items weeks ahead as you purge
spaces.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="margin: 0in 0in 0pt;">
**Check prices of similar items.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>Put on price tags and store in a common
area.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>(Preprinted price tags can be
found in some stationery stores, dollar stores, etc.)</div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="margin: 0in 0in 0pt;">
**Choose a sale date.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;">
</span>Join with neighbors if possible for a common date.</div>
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**Check community rules and get permits if necessary.</div>
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**Arrange for charity pickup or make plans for items not
sold.</div>
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**Write ad for newspaper, Craig’s List, newsletters, etc.</div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="margin: 0in 0in 0pt;">
**Make signs and flyers for bulletin boards and curbs where
allowed.</div>
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**Obtain sufficient tables, racks, etc. for items to be
displayed.</div>
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**Get change for large bills and newspaper, bags, etc. for
fragile items or large sales.</div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="margin: 0in 0in 0pt;">
**Use extension cords for testing electrical items.</div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="margin: 0in 0in 0pt;">
**Place pens, paper, calculator, extra price tags, tape, and
stapler at check out table.</div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="margin: 0in 0in 0pt;">
**After sale, remove signs, clean area and dispose of unsold
items as planned earlier.</div>
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A few other reminders for May:</div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="margin: 0in 0in 0pt;">
<b style="mso-bidi-font-weight: normal;">Change the a/c filter
and have a routine inspection</b> of all its components before the scorching days
of summer arrive. Clean ceiling fan blades and give other fans an inspection.</div>
<br />
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<b style="mso-bidi-font-weight: normal;">Clean the carpets and
floors</b>.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>They were used and abused
all winter and deserve a thorough cleaning.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;">
</span>If piles of clutter or stacks of items are on them, consider moving the
items to shelving, cabinets or tables.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;">
</span>Floors are easier to keep clean when only furniture is on them.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span></div>
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<br /></div>Mary Frances Ballardhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/09894098982869484191noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7640181261458137999.post-71578300807496076662012-04-02T11:41:00.000-07:002012-04-02T11:41:31.039-07:00Organizing Checklist for April<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiNPU7muRMzZMHLkqgkeKQFahPUBhdiG0DOiHiNUAQnR_xTS7nIBGgfV7WILzfoNnmIAYU5Wy1whDuMIVEwu7zb1UfHTd_0Iw1A2kx7HtrTEWQCQ3VxDyoKMwgBB0zYfT3hmz3h7QmUV8U/s1600/Linen+Closet.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiNPU7muRMzZMHLkqgkeKQFahPUBhdiG0DOiHiNUAQnR_xTS7nIBGgfV7WILzfoNnmIAYU5Wy1whDuMIVEwu7zb1UfHTd_0Iw1A2kx7HtrTEWQCQ3VxDyoKMwgBB0zYfT3hmz3h7QmUV8U/s320/Linen+Closet.jpg" width="240" /></a></div>April cannot decide if it will be warm or cool.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>Our area has the last day of potential frost as April 15<sup><span style="font-size: x-small;">th</span></sup> but that has not always proved to be true.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>It is also the month of spring rain as in “April showers bring May flowers”.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>On the cool or rainy days, take some time to organize your <b style="mso-bidi-font-weight: normal;">linens and bathroom(s).<o:p></o:p></b><br />
<div class="MsoNormal" style="margin: 0in 0in 0pt;">If space is limited in <b style="mso-bidi-font-weight: normal;">linen closets</b>, consider placing extra sheet sets in the bedroom where they are used.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>They can be stored in closets, inside under the bed containers or even under the mattress of that bed.</div><br />
Replace heavier <b style="mso-bidi-font-weight: normal;">bedding </b>with lighter weight items.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>Some quilts or comforters need only to be put through the “air” cycle on the dryer to remove dust.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>Store them in pillow cases or the large plastic bags now available to keep them clean.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>Vacuum bags can also be used but be aware they will gradually allow air to return.<br />
<br />
<div class="MsoNormal" style="margin: 0in 0in 0pt;"><o:p> </o:p>Remove sheets, blankets, etc. that are torn or in disrepair.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>If they can be fixed, find someone to do it, otherwise, recycle them to local pet shelters or other appropriate places.</div><br />
<div class="MsoNormal" style="margin: 0in 0in 0pt;"><o:p> </o:p>We often collect pillows and other bedding to have on hand in case guests stay overnight.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>Evaluate what you have that has rarely or never been used.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>Perhaps some of them can replace those you have removed, or they can be donated or sold to allow room for better organization of the space.</div><br />
<div class="MsoNormal" style="margin: 0in 0in 0pt;">Make similar decisions about your <b style="mso-bidi-font-weight: normal;">bathroom linens</b>.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>Towels and wash cloths that are in disrepair should be removed and replaced with those you have been saving for a special occasion or purchase additional items on sale.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>Most department stores have linen sales throughout the year and discount or outlet stores also offer good savings.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span></div><br />
<div class="MsoNormal" style="margin: 0in 0in 0pt;"><o:p> </o:p>Many cotton items will dry rot if not used over a period of time.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>This often occurs on the folded edges so check those that have been sitting on the shelf for a longer period of time.</div><br />
<div class="MsoNormal" style="margin: 0in 0in 0pt;"><o:p> </o:p>Clear the <b style="mso-bidi-font-weight: normal;">bathroom counters</b> and contain any times that must remain there.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>Use trays, baskets, bins, etc. to make clean up easier there.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>Be diligent in removing old or expired products and store duplicates of items in another area.</div><br />
<div class="MsoNormal" style="margin: 0in 0in 0pt;"><o:p> </o:p>Be sure all products in the bathroom have a label.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>This is especially important with medicines.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>You may check out taking expired medicines to your local pharmacy or ask them the best way to dispose of them.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span><st1:place w:st="on">Flushing</st1:place> in the toilet or garbage disposal is no longer recommended because of contamination of local waters.</div><br />
<div class="MsoNormal" style="margin: 0in 0in 0pt;"><o:p> </o:p>If the bathroom needs updating, consider using hooks rather than bars for towels.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>Children find them much easier to use so be sure to put those lower on the wall or door.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>Consider using dark or disposable towels for removing make-up </div><br />
<div class="MsoNormal" style="margin: 0in 0in 0pt;"><o:p> </o:p>Placing a magnifying mirror on the wall saves space and is more convenient that a portable model.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>Using pull out shelves or wire baskets under the sink will make access much easier to items stored in the back of those cabinets.</div><br />
<div class="MsoNormal" style="margin: 0in 0in 0pt;"><o:p> </o:p>Keeping these areas organized requires daily maintenance because of daily use.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>Setting up a schedule and requiring participation of all the family members can help keep them clean and neat.</div><div class="MsoNormal" style="margin: 0in 0in 0pt;"><br />
</div><div class="MsoNormal" style="margin: 0in 0in 0pt;">If you have organizing ideas or questions, I would love to hear from you. You can contact me by email: <a href="mailto:maryfrances@orderlyplaces.com"><span style="color: #341473;">maryfrances@orderlyplaces.com</span></a></div>Mary Frances Ballardhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/09894098982869484191noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7640181261458137999.post-74746337852681888612012-03-22T07:10:00.000-07:002012-03-22T07:10:12.221-07:00Emotional Attachments to our Stuff<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhLo3kKlU0ZCGGnq53D_KkC6UmIM40Oxq0TMkHO9r1aFAp1EHVhQ-lZn5he1HAcUrTWI1EZRpj_FYA1np5G2HoQfbNApIwXoVDXkwEeyRwI0SiomkZUMfpeYK8SBfCmzh3mkBVzPwjRl_w/s1600/sl+garage+1.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="277" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhLo3kKlU0ZCGGnq53D_KkC6UmIM40Oxq0TMkHO9r1aFAp1EHVhQ-lZn5he1HAcUrTWI1EZRpj_FYA1np5G2HoQfbNApIwXoVDXkwEeyRwI0SiomkZUMfpeYK8SBfCmzh3mkBVzPwjRl_w/s320/sl+garage+1.JPG" width="320" /></a></div><br />
One problem we have in staying organized is what to do with our things especially when we have too many to fit in our spaces. The lasting solution is, of course, to reduce the number of things we have to those that will reasonably fit in the spaces designated for them. Unfortunately we (yes I am including myself) hesitate to let our things go because we have emotional attachments to them. <br />
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Over the last 2 weeks I have been reminded of these attachments through a sermon (do you own things or do they own you), a facebook posting (letting go of a well used but worn out bookbag was emotional) and an article summarizing a study on how materialism takes a toll on marriages (Daily Press, March 11, 2012). In my work as a professional organizer, I see clients confront many emotions including fear and sentiment as they struggle with decisions in downsizing crowded closets, drawers, garages, attics, etc. <br />
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Fear often manifests itself as "I am afraid to let it go because I might need it and won't have it", while the facts remain that it has been around for years and never used, and should it be needed in the future the opportunity to buy or borrow it will be there. <br />
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Sentiment may be a much stronger deterent to letting items go because of strong emotional attachments to them. Pictures of good times together, souveniers of special events, handmade items or gifts from special people, etc. create memories we love. The struggle remains because we fear getting rid of the items will get rid of the memories. The reality is those memories are stored in our brains and our feelings for those relationships will never go away. It is, after all, the relationships that are important in our lives, not the things that represent them.<br />
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Another somewhat less emotional excuse for attachment is "I paid good money for it and letting it go is like throwing that money away." This is valid if the item is not depreciating as you own it but actually gaining in value (very difficult for anything in this economy). You pay for gas and burn it up, food and eat it up, clothes and wear them out, etc. You get the picture. The items are probably not worth now what you paid for them, but they may be important to someone less fortunate. Passing them on may actually add value to them and a blessing to those that need them.<br />
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</div>In the article on materialism, the lead author summarizes that materialism was associated with less emotional maturity in spouses. In my personal and professional experience, I would not only agree with him but add that being able to let go of our excess and not crave more than we need is an expression of emotional and spiritual maturity. In the big picture, it is investing time and energy in our relationships and not in accumulating and keeping stuff that adds to our quality of life. This is a challenge for all of us.Mary Frances Ballardhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/09894098982869484191noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7640181261458137999.post-52434711483855094332012-03-01T05:28:00.000-08:002012-03-01T05:28:57.224-08:00Organizing Tips for March<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi0I62JaAs0bBJKxTj4r8dvBQh4_BK0b2PH8npx39_nWVzJEjoPxu39ympB8Vtd8Z0PaEODETRf3foJdEvyh2ADiKjrD4ahhMEWU1eioh0WB3xsiLi0EkroBoE4rYoTAnxVR6i1mby73hc/s1600/Closet+1.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi0I62JaAs0bBJKxTj4r8dvBQh4_BK0b2PH8npx39_nWVzJEjoPxu39ympB8Vtd8Z0PaEODETRf3foJdEvyh2ADiKjrD4ahhMEWU1eioh0WB3xsiLi0EkroBoE4rYoTAnxVR6i1mby73hc/s320/Closet+1.jpg" width="240" /></a></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><br />
</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"> </div><div class="MsoNormal" style="margin: 0in 0in 0pt; text-align: left;">Spring arrives this month, at least on the calendar. Daylight Saving Time begins Sunday, March 11<sup>th</sup>.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>Set your clock ahead one hour.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span><b style="mso-bidi-font-weight: normal;">This month we are concentrating on the attic and clothing.<o:p></o:p></b></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;"> </div><ul style="margin-top: 0in;" type="disc"><div style="text-align: left;"> </div><li class="MsoNormal" style="margin: 0in 0in 0pt; mso-list: l0 level1 lfo1; tab-stops: list .5in;"><div style="text-align: left;">This is the time to get indoor tasks finished so you can enjoy the outdoors as soon as the warm weather is here.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>Whatever the project, do not let it drag on or remain unfinished until next winter.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>Make that final to-do list and get it done.</div></li>
</ul><ul style="margin-top: 0in;" type="disc"><li class="MsoNormal" style="margin: 0in 0in 0pt; mso-list: l0 level1 lfo1; tab-stops: list .5in;"><div style="text-align: left;"><b style="mso-bidi-font-weight: normal;">The Attic</b>.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>Unless you are storing items for another family member, the goal is to keep as little as possible in the attic.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>It is usually inconvenient to access and too hot or cold to spend time there.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>The extreme temperatures are also not good for many items to be kept there safely.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>In addition, you must take care to prevent invasion by critters.</div></li>
</ul><div class="MsoNormal" style="margin: 0in 0in 0pt 0.25in; text-align: left;"><span style="mso-tab-count: 1;"> </span>If you are storing items for adult children or other friends or family consider <span style="mso-tab-count: 1;"> </span>asking them to retrieve them.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>Setting a deadline to have them removed or they <span style="mso-tab-count: 1;"> </span>will be donated may spur them into action.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>In my professional and personal <span style="mso-tab-count: 1;"> </span>experience, I have found that most people don’t really want them after being <span style="mso-tab-count: 1;"> </span>without for awhile.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>You may be surprised that is the case with items you may <span style="mso-tab-count: 1;"> </span>have stored for others.</div><div class="MsoNormal" style="margin: 0in 0in 0pt 0.25in; text-align: left;"><br />
</div><div class="MsoNormal" style="margin: 0in 0in 0pt; text-align: left;"><span style="mso-tab-count: 1;"> </span>For safety reasons and convenience, add lighting and secure floor boards in areas <span style="mso-tab-count: 1;"> </span>of the attic you must use.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span></div><div class="MsoNormal" style="margin: 0in 0in 0pt; text-align: left;"><span style="mso-tab-count: 1;"> </span>For items you must keep, create zones for the types of items you are storing.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span><span style="mso-tab-count: 1;"> </span>For example, holiday items can be labeled and stored together.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span></div><div class="MsoNormal" style="margin: 0in 0in 0pt; text-align: left;"><span style="mso-tab-count: 1;"> </span>Use color coded containers or labels to help identify containers quickly.</div><div class="MsoNormal" style="margin: 0in 0in 0pt; text-align: left;"><span style="mso-tab-count: 1;"> </span>Take care to cover wood furnishings with sheets or blankets.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>Upholstered <span style="mso-tab-count: 1;"> </span>furniture should not be stored in the attic for many reasons.</div><div class="MsoNormal" style="margin: 0in 0in 0pt; text-align: left;"><span style="mso-tab-count: 1;"> </span>The attic is not suitable for candles, photographs, soft plastics such as in dolls, <span style="mso-tab-count: 1;"> </span>electronic media such as tapes, and many fabrics.</div><div class="MsoNormal" style="margin: 0in 0in 0pt; text-align: left;"><span style="mso-tab-count: 1;"> </span>If there are many items left to store after sorting, purging and cleaning the attic <span style="mso-tab-count: 1;"> </span>space, it is a good idea to create a map of where items are located.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>This will save <span style="mso-tab-count: 1;"> </span>much time when it is necessary to recover them.</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;"> </div><ul style="margin-top: 0in;" type="disc"><li class="MsoNormal" style="margin: 0in 0in 0pt; mso-list: l0 level1 lfo1; tab-stops: list .5in;"><div style="text-align: left;"><b style="mso-bidi-font-weight: normal;">Clothing</b><span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>As the days are longer and warmer, remove the heaviest clothing you will save to summer storage.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>This may mean to the back of the closet, to another closet or storage area, or out of the house permanently.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>If they will be part of a future yard sale, store them in the area set aside for that. <div class="MsoNormal" style="margin: 0in 0in 0pt 0.25in;">Winter clothing takes up lots of room in closets and drawers because they are <span style="mso-tab-count: 1;"> </span>heavier and have long sleeves.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>If there are items you did not use or those that <span style="mso-tab-count: 1;"> </span>children have outgrown, consider moving them out now.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span></div><div class="MsoNormal" style="margin: 0in 0in 0pt 0.25in;"><br />
</div><div class="MsoNormal" style="margin: 0in 0in 0pt 0.25in;"><span style="mso-tab-count: 1;"> </span>Clothing closets are one of the most frequently requested areas to organize.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span><span style="mso-tab-count: 1;"> </span>While there are great strategies to use in setting up closet systems, the biggest <span style="mso-tab-count: 1;"> </span>problem is too many items.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>Pareto’s rule applies here.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>You usually wear only <span style="mso-tab-count: 1;"> </span>20% of your clothing 80% of the time.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>Being willing to let go of those items that <span style="mso-tab-count: 1;"> </span>you don’t wear, for whatever reason, will make the task of organizing the closet <span style="mso-tab-count: 1;"> </span>much easier.</div><div class="MsoNormal" style="margin: 0in 0in 0pt 0.25in;"><br />
</div><div class="MsoNormal" style="margin: 0in 0in 0pt 0.25in;"><span style="mso-tab-count: 1;"> </span>While consignment shops usually only take current season clothing, removed <span style="mso-tab-count: 1;"> </span>items can be donated to a charity or sold in a yard sale.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>Moving them out will <span style="mso-tab-count: 1;"> </span>give you more space for the items that you do love and wear. </div><div class="MsoNormal" style="margin: 0in 0in 0pt 0.25in;"><br />
</div><ul style="margin-top: 0in;" type="disc"><li class="MsoNormal" style="margin: 0in 0in 0pt; mso-list: l0 level1 lfo1; tab-stops: list .5in;">If you have considered the possibility of having a yard or tag sale. It is never too early to plan and prepare for one.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>This month is the time to set the date and work towards that goal.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>May and June are great choices as it is not too hot and people are on the move.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>Consider going in with neighbors or friends to draw more customers onto your street.</li>
</ul><div class="MsoNormal" style="margin: 0in 0in 0pt 0.25in;"><br />
</div><span style="font-family: "Times New Roman"; font-size: 12pt; mso-ansi-language: EN-US; mso-bidi-language: AR-SA; mso-fareast-font-family: "Times New Roman"; mso-fareast-language: EN-US;">In the March 2011 checklist, I promised not to complain about the summer heat after last year’s cold temperatures and I kept that promise.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>The mild weather this winter was my reward.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>My fall camellias were still blooming in January while the spring varieties were just beginning to blossom.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>I love it!<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span></span></div></li>
</ul><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"> </div>Mary Frances Ballardhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/09894098982869484191noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7640181261458137999.post-48666127901084310462012-02-22T05:31:00.000-08:002012-02-22T05:31:42.677-08:00Using Containers Effectively<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjeRSUDuvjZJ8qruiLX5_q2kxJNUrWLcXzsYYmk0PgQvSnmIwhr5aBPoe9BIaLYGyJT9je6NQXm1KxCK0_5XAk1kSsXw44t8kercsTjjQwuu_JV-nO15km1XLB_pdosxhzS6pnVV0aF-BQ/s1600/Contest+winner+2.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="150" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjeRSUDuvjZJ8qruiLX5_q2kxJNUrWLcXzsYYmk0PgQvSnmIwhr5aBPoe9BIaLYGyJT9je6NQXm1KxCK0_5XAk1kSsXw44t8kercsTjjQwuu_JV-nO15km1XLB_pdosxhzS6pnVV0aF-BQ/s200/Contest+winner+2.JPG" width="200" /></a></div><span style="font-family: "Times New Roman"; font-size: 12pt; mso-ansi-language: EN-US; mso-bidi-language: AR-SA; mso-fareast-font-family: "Times New Roman"; mso-fareast-language: EN-US;"><v:shapetype coordsize="21600,21600" filled="f" id="_x0000_t75" o:preferrelative="t" o:spt="75" path="m@4@5l@4@11@9@11@9@5xe" stroked="f"> <v:stroke joinstyle="miter"> <v:formulas> <v:f eqn="if lineDrawn pixelLineWidth 0"> <v:f eqn="sum @0 1 0"> <v:f eqn="sum 0 0 @1"> <v:f eqn="prod @2 1 2"> <v:f eqn="prod @3 21600 pixelWidth"> <v:f eqn="prod @3 21600 pixelHeight"> <v:f eqn="sum @0 0 1"> <v:f eqn="prod @6 1 2"> <v:f eqn="prod @7 21600 pixelWidth"> <v:f eqn="sum @8 21600 0"> <v:f eqn="prod @7 21600 pixelHeight"> <v:f eqn="sum @10 21600 0"> </v:f></v:f></v:f></v:f></v:f></v:f></v:f></v:f></v:f></v:f></v:f></v:f></v:formulas> <v:path gradientshapeok="t" o:connecttype="rect" o:extrusionok="f"> <o:lock aspectratio="t" v:ext="edit"> </o:lock></v:path></v:stroke></v:shapetype></span>Using containers is one of the best ways to create and maintain organized spaces.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>Items on shelves, in cabinets and even in drawers should be arranged so they do not fall on other items, move around in the space or mix with other items.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span><br />
<br />
<div class="MsoNormal" style="margin: 0in 0in 0pt; text-align: justify;">There are some guidelines to remember in choosing containers.</div><br />
<ul style="margin-top: 0in;" type="disc"><li class="MsoNormal" style="margin: 0in 0in 0pt; mso-list: l0 level1 lfo1; tab-stops: list .5in; text-align: justify;">Use the most attractive containers in places where they are on display or seen. Decorative boxes and baskets are options for containers that will be seen by everyone.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>Those containers used in closets, cabinets or drawers need not be as attractive or expensive.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span></li>
<li class="MsoNormal" style="margin: 0in 0in 0pt; mso-list: l0 level1 lfo1; tab-stops: list .5in; text-align: justify;">Keep like items together in containers.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>Do not mix types of items such as pens with paper clips or earrings with bracelets.</li>
<li class="MsoNormal" style="margin: 0in 0in 0pt; mso-list: l0 level1 lfo1; tab-stops: list .5in; text-align: justify;">If there is more than one of the same type of item, containerize them together.</li>
<li class="MsoNormal" style="margin: 0in 0in 0pt; mso-list: l0 level1 lfo1; tab-stops: list .5in; text-align: justify;">Separate items from each other in a drawer or cabinet with dividers or containers.</li>
<li class="MsoNormal" style="margin: 0in 0in 0pt; mso-list: l0 level1 lfo1; tab-stops: list .5in; text-align: justify;">Group small items on a shelf in containers.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>Sauce packets in a pantry and rings in a jewelry box are examples of items that could be grouped together and contained.</li>
<li class="MsoNormal" style="margin: 0in 0in 0pt; mso-list: l0 level1 lfo1; tab-stops: list .5in; text-align: justify;">Containers should fit the space and hold the designated items in an orderly fashion.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>Using the same size, style, etc. creates a more attractive system.</li>
<li class="MsoNormal" style="margin: 0in 0in 0pt; mso-list: l0 level1 lfo1; tab-stops: list .5in; text-align: justify;">Measure spaces and items before purchasing any containers. </li>
<li class="MsoNormal" style="margin: 0in 0in 0pt; mso-list: l0 level1 lfo1; tab-stops: list .5in; text-align: justify;">Use square or rectangular containers whenever possible as they are more space efficient than round or oval ones.</li>
<li class="MsoNormal" style="margin: 0in 0in 0pt; mso-list: l0 level1 lfo1; tab-stops: list .5in; text-align: justify;">Clear plastic containers are the most versatile and functional because you are able to see the contents clearly.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>Label containers that are opaque.</li>
<li class="MsoNormal" style="margin: 0in 0in 0pt; mso-list: l0 level1 lfo1; tab-stops: list .5in; text-align: justify;">It is preferable to used stacked drawers units rather than stacking more than 3 containers together.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>It is too difficult to get to the items in the lowest container.</li>
<li class="MsoNormal" style="margin: 0in 0in 0pt; mso-list: l0 level1 lfo1; tab-stops: list .5in; text-align: justify;">Use trays or shallow boxes to contain items on dressers, vanities, counters, etc.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>It makes cleaning those surfaces quicker.</li>
<li class="MsoNormal" style="margin: 0in 0in 0pt; mso-list: l0 level1 lfo1; tab-stops: list .5in; text-align: justify;">Consider recycling boxes and other containers in the home for a new use rather than purchasing new containers the same size.</li>
</ul><div class="MsoNormal" style="margin: 0in 0in 0pt; text-align: justify;">In today’s organizing happy world, there are containers available in every size, shape, color, material and price.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>There are even stores and outlets opened specifically for selling containers and organizing supplies.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>With so many choices, there should be something for everyone.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>Make using containers a habit and your organizing and cleaning tasks will be much easier.</div>Mary Frances Ballardhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/09894098982869484191noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7640181261458137999.post-68197408886345609222012-02-01T04:41:00.000-08:002012-02-01T04:41:01.001-08:00Organizing Checklist for February<div class="post-header"><div class="post-header-line-1"></div></div><div class="post-body entry-content" id="post-body-7462740044310053502"><div style="text-align: center;"><img alt="" class="rg_hi" data-height="202" data-width="250" height="202" id="rg_hi" sb_id="ms__id875" src="https://encrypted-tbn0.google.com/images?q=tbn:ANd9GcTZtj_QmU2h0PFX6hp5rkvFZ8ejaSXHnrFJFXU4Ucmj9rzOH45tFg" style="height: 202px; width: 250px;" width="250" /></div>January was a busy month.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>If you have packed away the holiday items and worked on your files, inventory and budget you can take some time this month to enjoy your entertainment and hobby spaces.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span><br />
<br />
<ul style="margin-top: 0in;" type="disc"><li class="MsoNormal" style="margin: 0in 0in 0pt; mso-list: l0 level1 lfo1; tab-stops: list .5in;">Sort through videos and CDs and remove those no longer used.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>Let’s face it, if you haven’t run them in the last couple of years, you probably will not.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>Our tastes in music and movies change over the years.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>Sell or pass them on to someone who wants them.</li>
<li class="MsoNormal" style="margin: 0in 0in 0pt; mso-list: l0 level1 lfo1; tab-stops: list .5in;">Clear the bookshelves of fiction you have already read and reference books.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>It is unlikely you will reread fiction and reference books become outdated quickly.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>Use the Internet to keep up to date on those topics.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>You can sell or donate those items and make room for more good reading on cold winter nights.</li>
<li class="MsoNormal" style="margin: 0in 0in 0pt; mso-list: l0 level1 lfo1; tab-stops: list .5in;">Review your cookbook collection and recipes you have collected.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>Consider online sites for new recipe ideas.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>I promise you can find any type of recipe you want with Google.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>Save only those with recipes you continually use or those with sentimental value.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span></li>
<li class="MsoNormal" style="margin: 0in 0in 0pt; mso-list: l0 level1 lfo1; tab-stops: list .5in;">Review the holiday magazines you purchased last fall, clip out items you want to save and recycle the rest.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>Consider donating them to local doctor’s offices, beauty shops, etc.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>I promise they need them.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>I personally am tired or reading Golf magazines when I am in waiting rooms.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span></li>
<li class="MsoNormal" style="margin: 0in 0in 0pt; mso-list: l0 level1 lfo1; tab-stops: list .5in;">Purge those catalogues, too.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>They are simply printed commercials and you know how much you hate those interruptions.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>Why waste time on the printed version?<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>If you must, save the back page with the promotion codes, etc.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>If you need to make a purchase, you can go online, find the item and use the current discount.</li>
<li class="MsoNormal" style="margin: 0in 0in 0pt; mso-list: l0 level1 lfo1; tab-stops: list .5in;">Make the most of indoor time by finishing up indoor decorating projects and/or enjoying time on indoor hobbies.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>Sort through your supplies and remove those no longer useful.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span></li>
<li class="MsoNormal" style="margin: 0in 0in 0pt; mso-list: l0 level1 lfo1; tab-stops: list .5in;">Begin planning for early spring activities.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>Buy seeds now and consider planting them indoors for early blooms and crops.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>If that is not convenient at least you will have better seed choices now.</li>
<li class="MsoNormal" style="margin: 0in 0in 0pt; mso-list: l0 level1 lfo1; tab-stops: list .5in;">Make preliminary plans for spring or summer vacations.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>Early reservations are usually less expensive.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>Insure all travel tickets.</li>
</ul><div class="MsoNormal" style="margin: 0in 0in 0pt;">The days are getting longer now and with daylight savings time coming early in March, we will soon be spending more time outside.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>I look forward to spring flowers and green leaves on my trees</div></div>Mary Frances Ballardhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/09894098982869484191noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7640181261458137999.post-40898645383629332052012-01-01T16:04:00.000-08:002012-01-01T16:04:50.418-08:00Organizing Tips for January<div class="MsoNormal" style="margin: 0in 0in 0pt 0.25in;">Last year my January article suggested you eliminate one bag of donations/recycle a week and eliminate one hour of electronics to free up your time.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>If you followed through on it, you are well on your way in your organizing journey.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span></div><br />
<div class="MsoNormal" style="margin: 0in 0in 0pt 0.25in;">This year I will make another suggestion to jump start the organizing process.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>Keep a bag or box near your door for donations.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>Each day as you see an item that you no longer use, immediately place it in the container.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span><o:p></o:p></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgSKuOOL-xMVqoGtyB1z8x9ri3sno8rHAXP6Bvg5LUzee7XzDuT533aabchfCtHM9BIbGMcFYGv-74y4B8aRy0K5MhQEfiMWlSyQGcoevOA_9QSekj4G4v8H4cRbc2JViWHQaTYliesEf8/s1600/Kids+books+fabric+crate.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="240" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgSKuOOL-xMVqoGtyB1z8x9ri3sno8rHAXP6Bvg5LUzee7XzDuT533aabchfCtHM9BIbGMcFYGv-74y4B8aRy0K5MhQEfiMWlSyQGcoevOA_9QSekj4G4v8H4cRbc2JViWHQaTYliesEf8/s320/Kids+books+fabric+crate.JPG" width="320" /></a></div><br />
<div class="MsoNormal" style="margin: 0in 0in 0pt 0.25in;">So many times we keep things “just in case I might need it” but we haven’t used it in years if ever.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>Impulse purchases and gifts are often put in drawers, cabinets or closets but never used.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>Free yourself of these items and make space for organizing what is left.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span><o:p></o:p></div><br />
<div class="MsoNormal" style="margin: 0in 0in 0pt 0.25in;"><br />
</div><div class="MsoNormal" style="margin: 0in 0in 0pt 0.25in;">Other items may have lost their usefulness but could be used by someone else.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>Move those on to a higher purpose.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>If sentimental items are not being enjoyed or honored but rather packed away in a closet or attic, see if another family member has room to display or used them.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>Letting go an item doesn’t mean you forget the person or event.<o:p></o:p></div><br />
<div class="MsoNormal" style="margin: 0in 0in 0pt 0.25in;">If you are diligent to put an item in everyday, you will quickly see more space for the things you use and love.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>Of course a closet clean out could have enough items to meet your quota for a week or two.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>It is never too late to make changes to be better organized.<o:p></o:p></div><br />
<div class="MsoNormal" style="margin: 0in 0in 0pt 0.25in;">Here are more reminders for January.<o:p></o:p></div><br />
<ul style="margin-top: 0in;" type="disc"><li class="MsoNormal" style="margin: 0in 0in 0pt; mso-list: l0 level1 lfo1; tab-stops: list .5in;">Start a container for tax related items that arrive in the mail this month.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span><o:p></o:p></li>
<li class="MsoNormal" style="margin: 0in 0in 0pt; mso-list: l0 level1 lfo1; tab-stops: list .5in;">Update your paper and computer records by purging folders of items no longer needed. This will make planning a new budget for the year and preparing tax forms much easier. Shred old financial documents a little at a time or take them to a records management company to be shred professionally.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>If you have questions about how long you should keep some records, contact me or check out pages 135-138 in my book, <i style="mso-bidi-font-style: normal;">Orderly Places</i>.<o:p></o:p></li>
<li class="MsoNormal" style="margin: 0in 0in 0pt; mso-list: l0 level1 lfo1; tab-stops: list .5in;">If you have not already done so, get a new planner/calendar that shows a week at a glance and breaks each day into hourly segments.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>Schedule your daily activities in it.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>Most computers have programs to do this, as does Google and other online sources, at no additional cost.<o:p></o:p></li>
<li class="MsoNormal" style="margin: 0in 0in 0pt; mso-list: l0 level1 lfo1; tab-stops: list .5in;">Update your home inventory.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>Take pictures or make a video of every room, every closet, the garage and attic for insurance purposes.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>These pictures will also give you a fresh and objective look at the appearance of you spaces.<o:p></o:p></li>
</ul><br />
<div class="MsoNormal" style="margin: 0in 0in 0pt 0.25in;">Set a goal to make this year a successful one for organizing your home.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>Every step will make it a more enjoyable place for you and your family.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span><o:p></o:p></div><br />
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</div>Mary Frances Ballardhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/09894098982869484191noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7640181261458137999.post-72872741203693682802011-12-19T06:03:00.000-08:002011-12-19T06:03:04.177-08:00Organizing the New Toys<div align="center" class="MsoNormal" style="margin: 0in 0in 0pt; text-align: center;"><b style="mso-bidi-font-weight: normal;">Preparing for New Toys<o:p></o:p></b></div><br />
<div class="MsoNormal" style="margin: 0in 0in 0pt;">The organizing process almost always requires removing items that are no longer needed.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>Most children (and some adults) have too many toys and some are rarely used.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>Consider removing now those that are no longer useful, that have become obsolete, those children have outgrown and those broken or in need of parts or repair.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span></div><br />
<div class="MsoNormal" style="margin: 0in 0in 0pt;">This is an excellent time to teach children to share and also make room for more appropriate items. Items that are in good condition can be taken to local charities or thrift shops.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>Taking pictures of the children with some of their favorite but no longer needed toys is a good way to remember the good times without all the clutter.</div><br />
<div class="MsoNormal" style="margin: 0in 0in 0pt;">And don’t forget about the entertainment and hobby items no longer needed by adults.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>Replaced televisions, VCRs, sports equipment, etc. can be removed and donated to make more space in the home and provide items for others less fortunate to enjoy.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span></div><br />
<div class="MsoNormal" style="margin: 0in 0in 0pt;">Taking the time now to make space for the new items coming into the house this month will make the task of organizing after the holidays much easier.</div><br />
<div class="MsoNormal" style="margin: 0in 0in 0pt;"><v:shapetype coordsize="21600,21600" filled="f" id="_x0000_t75" o:preferrelative="t" o:spt="75" path="m@4@5l@4@11@9@11@9@5xe" stroked="f"> <v:stroke joinstyle="miter"> <v:formulas> <v:f eqn="if lineDrawn pixelLineWidth 0"> <v:f eqn="sum @0 1 0"> <v:f eqn="sum 0 0 @1"> <v:f eqn="prod @2 1 2"> <v:f eqn="prod @3 21600 pixelWidth"> <v:f eqn="prod @3 21600 pixelHeight"> <v:f eqn="sum @0 0 1"> <v:f eqn="prod @6 1 2"> <v:f eqn="prod @7 21600 pixelWidth"> <v:f eqn="sum @8 21600 0"> <v:f eqn="prod @7 21600 pixelHeight"> <v:f eqn="sum @10 21600 0"> </v:f></v:f></v:f></v:f></v:f></v:f></v:f></v:f></v:f></v:f></v:f></v:f></v:formulas> <v:path gradientshapeok="t" o:connecttype="rect" o:extrusionok="f"> <o:lock aspectratio="t" v:ext="edit"> </o:lock></v:path></v:stroke></v:shapetype><v:shape id="_x0000_i1025" style="height: 145.5pt; width: 195pt;" type="#_x0000_t75"> <v:imagedata o:title="images" src="file:///C:\Users\MARYFR~1\AppData\Local\Temp\msohtml1\01\clip_image001.jpg"> </v:imagedata></v:shape></div>Mary Frances Ballardhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/09894098982869484191noreply@blogger.com0