I Organize You

Let Go.

2012-01-26T08:10:00.000-05:00

Often having what you want

is the function of

letting go of what you have.

What are you hanging onto that is preventing you from enjoying what you have?

"Rock the Boat" Not Your Hairspray

2012-01-20T08:40:00.000-05:00

Wire shelving is a fabulous way to create organization in your home, though sometimes the spacing of the wires cause your items to rock, roll and tumble about ... which is frustrating defeating the calm & peacefulness of being organized.

Sure you could replace with solid shelving, but it is really not necessary with this slick little trick:

An organized shelf: foxtoledo.com

You can find corrugated plastic sheets at most craft and home improvement stores. "Zip ties" or garbage bag ties can be used to secure the shelving into place.

If you have the song "Rock the Boat" running through your head now, my apologies.

How do you get songs out of your head?

Time to Get Organized: Challenge #3

2012-01-16T09:13:00.002-05:00

We all have junk drawers.
(OK, maybe a couple ... alright several)

An organized junk drawer, we'll that's just crazy talk.

Things get tossed into the junk drawer because they were needed at one time, not really sure an easy place was available when you were done with it. Now your junk is a mishmash of items from nail clippers, hair brushes, foreign coins, pencils, paintbrushes, ball inflator valves, guitar picks, ... uh, you get the point.

Today's organizing project: Your Junk Drawer
Bring the garbage can nearby and start tossing thing out.
Reward: Call up a friend you have not spoken to in far too long.
Seriously, are you REALLY going to need that "L" shaped assembly tool for the cabinet you put together 5 years ago? What about those little bags of extras screws?
Get rid of them!

As you pull items out, place them into similar groups. Once everything is out of your junk drawer, wipe the funk out of it and think about what you REALLY need. There are all sorts of fancy plastic containers to use to keep items organized. Use them if you wish, but you may have some small boxes or old plastic bowls that could be used, as well.

Make your junk drawer a functioning member of your happy organized home.
... and guess what. You are going to feel sooooo much better, too!

How many screws did you have in your junk drawer?

Time to Get Organized: Challenge #2

2012-01-12T07:34:00.002-05:00

You know that drawer with all those kitchen tools and devices for cooking, baking, spreading, flipping, piercing, poking, whisking and stirring filled with items you never really use much but have them, so you keep them ...

Yeah, THAT drawer or dust covered counter top holder thingy.

Today's organizing project:
Your Kitchen Utensils
Dump them out. Keep only what you USE.

Reward: Pancakes for dinner!

Now don't cut yourself on the cheese slicer given to you as a wedding gift 15 years ago, though you should be OK since it is still in the packaging ... Uh, maybe you can let that one go?

Organizing your kitchen is vital to having a peaceful home.
Think about it.

Your kitchen provides nourishment to your body. If your kitchen is not happy, you're likely not going to want to spend much time in it. Everyone enjoys going out eat. But, if you're going out to eat because your kitchen is a mess, perhaps it is time to make a change.

Focus on making your kitchen happy.
You can do it!

What did you have for dinner?

Time to Get Organized: Challenge #1

2012-01-10T08:03:00.000-05:00

New Year Organizing challenges are back!
Hey, I gave you a week to ramp up to this, right?

I know. I know. But you got start somewhere on your path to organizing success.

Let's kick off the "Time to Get Organized" Challenges with something familiar. Even if it has been a year (or never) since you cleaned out your email inbox.

With a full week to rest and recoup from the holiday hoopla, now it is time to get back to business. These organizing challenges are to give you some direction at conquering your organizing goals.

Today's 10 min project: Your InBox.

Spend 10 minutes deleting (yes, I said 'delete')
old emails from your inbox.
HUGE slice of cheescake, or an alternate reward,
if you get your box down to 25 messages.

Check back for the next organizing challenge.

Imagine how awesome you are going to feel by the end of the month!

How many messages are in your inbox (before & after numbers)?

Procrastination ... So Easy, So Fun, So ... ah, What was I doing?

2012-01-04T07:56:00.000-05:00

Getting distracted is sooooo easy to do.

Huge fan of SQUIRREL ... of losing focus from time t-SQUIRREL! ... to time.

Ellen DeGeneres did a little bit on her struggles in getting organized and how procrastination leads you down the distracted path of whatever you are attempting to accomplish.

Now that I've spent the last hour or so watching the rest of Ellen's standup, I can get back to business ... uh, what was I doing?

One favorite quotes from Ellen (on hands-free devices):

"If you need both of your hands to do something,
I'm thinking your brain should be in on it too"
What are you procrastinating from doing?

Organizing Magic Gift Certificates

2012-01-01T08:16:00.002-05:00

You can purchase your gift securely using Google Checkout.

Simply select the number of hours you wish and choose your favorite credit or debit card for payment:

Feel free to contact me with any questions. Thank you.

Enjoy the day,

How old is the Spaghetti in the back corner of your fridge?

2011-12-21T16:05:00.000-05:00

If your fridge is not organized, who knows what could end up lurking in the dark, lower back corner.

Next thing you know you have an awesome science experiment underway and you hear,
"Mom, when did you order cheese pizza with blueberries?" (I know, gross)

Here is a slick little trick to get your refrigerator organized using, of all things, a plastic shoe box:

Organizing items lost in the fridge: foxtoledo.com

These plastic shoe box containers can be found at most dollar stores and are fantastic for keeping all those little items organized in your fridge.

What's in the back of your fridge?

Let Go and Enjoy

2011-12-16T15:40:00.003-05:00

Want to truly enjoy your new Christmas, Hanukkah, Kwanzaa or Festivus gifts that you will be receiving soon?
... Take this weekend to "Let Go" of items in your home
that no longer make you smile & feel wonderful
(or that you are tired of dusting)
What did you "let go" in your home?

Honoring Your Loved Ones Memory

2011-12-08T09:06:00.001-05:00

This is one of my favorite organizing project stories ever. Love this story, and so appropriate for this time of year. Enjoy.

"Terry" admits she get overwhelmed in attempting to stay organized. Like many of us, the dramas of life can take over and the last thing on your list of things to care for is yourself.

Terry had been hanging on to a gift certificate for my services for 11 months. The certificate made her feel good when she received it and if she used it, Terry felt it would be gone. Finally, she broke down and we met.

We talked a bit about her goals. I gave her some ideas about managing tasks to get and stay organized. Then she told me about a craft box in her attic.

This craft box was her mother's. Terry cherished this box of craft supplies. The thing is, Terry's mother passed away 11 years ago. Yes, 11 years this box sat in her attic collecting dust and funk.

She finally decided that the time had come to part with it. Terry told me she believed,

"If you release what is holding you back, good will come back."

A woman came to Terry's home from Freecycle to pick up her mother's craft box. The next week, there was a knock on Terry's front door.

The woman had returned to give Terry this Christmas display for her home. Made only from the items found in the gifted box. Terry immediately recognized certain parts of the arrangement that her mother decorated with. Needless to say, Terry was beside herself with joy and happiness. I got the chills when she told me the story.

Memories of a past loved one are good. They should be honored since they played a loving role in your life. Though if you have them cramped in a dusty, funky smelling old box in your attic, is that really a positive way to remember them?

If you are not enjoying them, perhaps it is time to part with them.
Another person will find joy in the items you give.
........ And good will come back to you.

What's in your attic?

Pens, Pencils and Markers ... Oh MY!

2011-12-01T07:33:00.000-05:00

I bet you use the same couple pens or pencils every day.

Yet, you may have 1, 2 or more crammed pencil holders on your desk.

Likely there is a drawer that is stuffed with more writing devices that just somehow came to be. After all, you never know when you are going to need a pen ... right?

See that's just it ... you only need A PEN (or pencil) to jot something down.

It may not sound like much, but getting rid of the unused excess is a very good thing.

Organizing your pens, pencils: foxtoledo.com

Gather up your pens surrounding your desk area and whittle them down to a select few in ONE holder on your desk top or drawer.

Do the same in each area where you have squirreled away a lifetime supply of writing tools.

Bag up your extra supplies and see if your local school or daycare would be interested in your collection.

How many pens and pencils did you let go?

The Gift of Organizing Magic for this Holiday Season

2011-11-29T16:49:00.003-05:00

Finding a fun, creative and appreciative gift this holiday season can be quite challenging. With the craziness of life, many times just a little bit of extra help to ease the stress and strain of an overwhelmed world is amazingly refreshing.

An Organized Solutions gift certificate may be that perfect fit for your favorite loved one who has been dreaming of getting organized. Google Checkout is a fantastic feature and we are very excited to offer this element to you (See below or the top right side bar on this blog. Website access coming soon.) Bonus: You can use your any of your favorite credit cards, too.

If you are thinking of purchasing a gift certificate, I encourage you to contact me to make sure your gift will be happily received. Nothing worse than getting a gift like that ugly sweater your Aunt Bonnie gave you when you were 16 year old.

After all, we all give with best intentions, though making sure your gift is perfect is priceless.

What was the best gift you ever received?

I'm Lovin' this Project Organizer

2011-11-20T09:19:00.000-05:00

Smead Manufacturing Company was founded in Hastings, Minnesota in 1906 and has been a woman owned business enterprise since 1955. (Girl Power!)

Recently they sent me a sample of their new "Project Organizer" to review and I gotta say I love it!

Sure it will get you organized and keep you focused on your projects. This organizing tool is pre-printed with templates for optimal organization. Keep track of your project's process, contacts and notes with 10 expanding pockets.
• Quick & easy pre-printed dividers to access project information, tasks, contacts and notes
• Reinforced Tabs
• 10% recycled content, 10% post-consumer material

But why do I love Smead's Project Organizer:
1. It feels durable. It is a paper product, but Smead did a great job making it strong. If it's intention is to be a used for a project, this needs to be able to withstand wear and tear.
2. The tabs are reinforced but also nice and wide, allowing you to clearly label each one should you choose making this item customizable.
3. Great pre-printed areas that will guide you to stay organized and avoiding lost phone numbers, missed deadlines with plenty of room to jot random important notes or changes involving your project.

Though I'm going to go a step further, because there is the potential for personal home use, too:
- You could use it in your kitchen to keep track of take-out menus, receipts from recently purchased items, bills to be paid or items to be filed. Instead of piles on your counter or papers covering your fridge, all those papers can be neatly organized in this expanding set of folders.
- Assign a row of folders (1-3, 4-6, 7-9) to keep track of your kids important school papers, schedules, sports, etc. No more wondering what hour your son has lunch or when the next random day of school the kids will have off.

... Get creative and see how you might be able to use this great item. Just because it says "Project Organizer" doesn't mean that is its only possible use.

What project are you going to get organized?

"Someday" May Never Get You Organized

2011-11-19T10:23:00.000-05:00

Do you find yourself saying you are going to get organized someday or later?

Of the seven days of the week, there is no "Someday" or "Later."

If you are really going to get organized, you must set up an appointment with yourself and make it happen:

Get yourself organized: foxtoledo.com

If you are going to go to the dentist, doctor, school function or birthday parties, you likely place the appointments on your calendar.

You need to follow this rule if you are struggling with getting organized. Make an appointment with yourself to get it done! I guarantee you will feel better.

When is your appointment with yourself?
... and better yet, what are you going to do?

Batteries ... Are Yours Organized?

2011-11-05T07:55:00.000-05:00

Batteries are so important in today's world.
You practically need some sort of battery for everything you touch.

So, organization of your batteries is very important.
No one wants to be struggling, getting frustrated, looking for the correct battery when you desperately need it.

You want the right battery available quickly.
.. and, gasp, if you should not have any of the correct battery size available in your home.
Ugh! ... Now you have to make a trip to the store.

Here's a quick video on an organizing trick for your batteries:

Organizing your batteries: foxtoledo.com

Now with all your batteries organized, you should have more time for yourself, family and friends.

Get out and enjoy life ... You deserve it!

What is your favorite battery size?

Organizing blah, blah, blah Your blah, blah, blah Pantry

2011-11-02T06:57:00.001-05:00

Mid-week blahs may send you out after a work to grab something quick to eat.

Though it will likely not be the best choice and you have plenty of food in your home.

Think about making a meal out of your pantry items
... especially if you feel overwhelmed looking at your pantry.

Here's how you can work toward organizing your pantry, save money and time going out to eat and feed your family ... 3 positive actions for the price of one choice = AWESOME:

Shop your dinner in your pantry: foxtoledo.com

Using items frees up space and saves you money, time, effort from going out to eat.
Likely it will be healthier for you and your family too!

PLUS ... less food frees up space which makes it MUCH easier to get organized.

What did you find for dinner tonight?

Is Your Linen Closet Throwing Up on You?

2011-10-28T07:26:00.002-05:00

As you open up your linen closet to grab a fresh towel for your luxurious, relaxing batch, items just begin to tumble out onto you.

UGH!

... So much for relaxation and calm.

No need for this to happen any longer to you. Here's a great clip from Your Rocket Organizer on how you can get your linens under control and organized:

Organizing out of control linen closet: foxtoledo.com

Take a hard look at the items in your linen closet:
Do you really need 15 washcloths for 4 people?
You no longer have a double bed, so why do you have the sheets?
Ah, you found a long lost shirt jammed in the towel.

Bag, bundle, box up all your linens that have lost their fluffiness or happy purpose in your life and take them to your favorite animal shelter for donation.

A puppy or kitten would love to cuddle up in a those items.

OK ... how many bath towels do you have?

Organizing Your Scary Halloween Decorations

2011-10-25T19:22:00.000-05:00

Is your home all ready and organized for all those creepy, scary little monsters to ascend upon your home requesting tasty treats?

If your spookiest decorations do not make it out of the storage bins this year,
they will likely not make it out next year. You may even have a few items rolling around in there that are a few years old.

Let them go.

Here's a quick 40 second video clip to help encourage you to release your unused decorations
... so they don't "haunt" you next year:

Organizing your old, new Halloween decorations: foxtoledo.com

Remember: less stuff = more space

What is your favorite Halloween candy?

Gorgeous Disorder

2011-10-14T12:39:00.000-05:00

Today's post comes from Debbie Stanley owner of Thoughts In Order Counseling and Consulting. She has worked with chronically disorganized and hoarding clients since 1997, originally as an industrial psychologist and professional organizer and now as a licensed counselor. Debbie practice includes in-office, in-home, telephone, and Skype counseling, coaching, and corporate consultation.

Here in Day Two of the deluge of tributes to Steve Jobs, I’ve found a photo that makes my heart sing:

Steve Jobs in home office Dec 2004 - photo by Diana Walker

If you didn’t know before his death, you’ve had ample opportunity now to learn that Steve Jobs was brilliant–so much so that to call him brilliant is becoming an awkward understatement.

Now, look at his home office. Notice the rafters and the brick walls … looks like it’s in the basement. Notice the furnishings… as basic as it gets. And the books, in their gorgeous disorder. And the piles of stuff on the desk, under the desk, on the floor…. Beauty.

I’m in the business of helping people to find clarity through organization. Why does this photo please me? Because it proves that genius can thrive in an imperfect environment. Some people already have clarity without spatial organization. To tidy up would not help (at best) and might interfere (at worst). For them, it is a truly fine mess.

Thanks to photographer Diana Walker and her willing subject, this is no longer just my opinion. If you are excellent at what you do, and you do it at a messy desk in a messy office (with which you’d be perfectly content, if not for the nagging), your boss and your family don’t have to take my word for it that you’re fine as you are. They can look at this photo and recalibrate their opinions.

That’s Steve Jobs in the picture. If it were a regular Joe, or even a regular genius, many (maybe most) people would see it as just another messy-office guy struggling to keep up. Maybe they would see a self-employed contractor or architect or web designer who has to work in his unfinished basement to save money, and whose work is inferior because he’s disorganized and stressed. They probably wouldn’t imagine that the guy is a billionaire whose work changed the world and the house above his head is a mansion. But they are.

Thanks, Steve Jobs, for putting a ding in this stereotype.
---------------------------------------------------------------------------------

Thank you Debbie for sharing your blog post.
You ROCK!!

Messy desk or clean desk ... It all depends on what works for YOU.

Me?
I will admit, I'm pretty much in the middle on desk organization.
... and I'm cool with it.

How do you feel about your desk?

Organizing Your Jewelry with Ice Cubes

2011-10-11T11:41:00.000-05:00

Here is an amazing little organizing trick using an ice cube tray to keep your earrings, small necklaces, pendants and rings organized. The great thing is you can store the tray in most drawers, rather than having 3-4 bowls filled with a tangled mess of jewelry:

Organized Solutions: Jewelry: foxtoledo.com

If you want your "jewelry tray" to look less like an ice cube tray, grab a can of your favorite spray paint and jazz it up a bit.

What is your favorite fun jewelry item?

Say Good-Bye to your Beloved Cassette Tape Collection

2011-10-05T07:02:00.000-05:00

If you own any cassette tapes,

you likely do not have a device to play these little music gems

... it's time to let them go.

Seriously ... It is 2011.

Yes, this includes your collection of Whitesnake, Depeche Mode, Wham!, Culture Club, Dokken and Men At Work

... especially your collection of "mix songs" made by your high school sweetheart

What was your first cassette tape purchase?

(mine: Michael Jackson, "Thriller")

One ... Two ... SCREAM!!!

2011-10-03T07:52:00.002-05:00

When was the last time you screamed?

I'm talking:
-eyes closed
-fists clenched
-teeth exposed
-neck strained

Screaming is a great way to release a TON of energy from your mind and body.

You might think this is crazy, but I'm telling you it is awesome!

Close the windows, crank up the radio in your car and belt out the loudest noise you can conjure from your inner soul until your throat hurts.

... yeah baby!

How great do you feel now?

Breathe.

2011-09-30T07:26:00.000-05:00

In through the nose
... Out through the mouth.

In through the nose
... Out through the mouth.

In through the nose ...... Out through the mouth.

In through the nose ....... Out through the mouth.

In through the nose ....... Out through the mouth.

In through the nose ....... Out through the mouth.

In through the nose ....... Out through the mouth.

In through the nose ....... Out through the mouth.

In through the nose ....... Out through the mouth.

In through the nose ....... Out through the mouth.

It's been one of those weeks for me, too.

Do you feel better?

It's OK ... You can say "No"

2011-09-22T04:45:00.003-05:00

What?!
No time.
Too busy.
Other stuff to do.
... Are you crazy?!

Yeah, we all gotta work to pay the bills, though you should take care of yourself first. Take a moment and evaluate your commitments. Look where your time is being spent vs. what benefit are you getting from it. It's OK, be a bit selfish. This moment is all about you baby!

Let's look at a week: (warning math lesson ahead)
24 hours/day = 168 hours/week
168 hours/week - 56 hours sleeping/week = 112 hours/week
(8 hours/night sleeping)
112 hours/week - 40 hours working/week = 72 hours/week
72 hours/week for everything else that is life.
WOW! I hope you are making the most of your time.

You can't do everything. You can try, though you will certainly burn out at some point likely resulting at screaming at your kids for leaving their mud covered soccer shoes on while running through the house like monkeys
(not like that ever really happens).

It is OK to say 'No.'
Here are a few tips on saying 'No:'

1. You deserve to take priority. Take time for yourself. Make sure you give yourself some free time to pamper yourself, just relax, or work on a hobby. Perhaps it is only 10-15 minutes, better than zero. In our home, my boys know that "if mommy is not happy, no one is happy."

2. Do not make excuses for 'no.' People respect honesty and hate hearing excuses. Treat yourself right and you can't help but treat others right too. If you need to use humor to lighten the 'no', do it!

3. Do not make commitments you're not prepared to keep. Saying 'no' is only a refusal of that particular request. Taking on a task that may overwelm you will only result in added stress in your life and resentment toward the commitment. Much better for you to say 'no.'

4. Remember you don't have to give a reason. We don't give reasons when we say 'yes' so why should we have to give a reason for saying 'no.' A simple 'I appreciate you asking, but no thanks' will often do the trick. Kick your guilt to the curb!

5. Set limits. If you are only available to help for 4 hours on Saturday, tell them that and stick to your limits. Keep in mind to be firm but polite. You need to recognize how much you can reasonably do.

6. Delegate. If nothing else works or you begin to feel a bit a stress building, remember to ask for help. Perhaps delegate some of your commitments to others. Delegation is the key to being a good leader. Break up things among family members, friends, organizations, or co-workers. Allow others to help you.

I guess if all else fails next time someone asks you to do something you really don't want to do, and feel like you can't come up with something quickly, just tell them "Oh, I'd love to, but Angie said No."
I'll take the heat for you.

What did you say 'No' to?

Time Management Strategies for the Digital Age

2011-09-20T09:32:00.001-05:00

Do you find yourself thinking?

“I’ve Got the Technology.
Now Give Me Back My Time!”

If you are disappointed, frustrated, or downright infuriated at how much LESS time you have now, despite all of your gadgetry and apps, make time for this special event:

The National Association of Professional Organizers in Michigan proudly welcomes

Best-Selling Author and Internationally Renowned
Time Management Expert
Harold Taylor

Technology, speed, multitasking, & 24/7 connectivity have erased the boundary between work and personal time. Harold Taylor will discuss the impact of technology on the way we manage time, the increasing importance of holistic time management, ways to control the hectic pace of the digital age of speed, and much more.

Thursday, October 20, 2011, 11:30 am-3 pm

Red Olive Banquet Center, Plymouth, MI
Lunch Included

$55 non-members ($65 after Oct. 13)
$25 NAPO-MI members ($30 after Oct. 13)

Limited to 100 guests. Make your reservation at www.napomichigan.com

Red Olive Banquet Center is located at
1051 W. Ann Arbor Rd.
(between Main & Sheldon), Plymouth, MI 48170.
For more information: contact Susan Carmody
events@napomichigan.com

Learn more about Harold Taylor at www.taylorintime.com.

What is your time management trick?

Conquering Your Closet Clutter

2011-09-16T14:22:00.001-05:00

With the changing seasons, comes a change in your wardrobe.Leading to a perfect time to get your closets, dressers and drawers sorted and purged.

So put on some comfy clothes, turn on some music tunes and grab a few (alright several) bags to begin loading them up with donations.

BIG THANKS to The Courier out of Findlay, Ohio for putting together this awesome article below filled with tips and tricks for getting organized. You can read the article below (which is a bit fuzzy hard to read) or you can go directly to the nice big, easy to read article here.

Remember, to give your items a hard look. Just because it is your favorite shirt EVER, doesn't mean that 4+ years later it loves you. You want clothing that looks great on you and makes you feel good.

What is your favorite shirt EVER?
(yes that top picture is me from 3rd grade. That was a favorite shirt)

Happy Birthday Organized Solutions!! We're giving away FREE Professional Organizing

2011-09-14T19:22:00.000-05:00

In your weakest most vulnerable moments, greatness is there if you are strong enough to see it.

Crazy when I think about it.
-Brand, spanking new single divorce mother of two boys, 6 and 4 years old.
-Been a stay at home mom for 5 years, after leaving a senior engineering position at Ford Motor Company.

Everything I had worked so hard for in my world, shattered apart. Gone.
At least it appeared that way ...

For at that time, I felt an opportunity was at hand.
"Well, if I'm going to start completely over in life. Let's make a difference and have some fun with it."

Single mom, 2 boys, unemployed, HUGE mortgage, alone, family living 2 hours away ... Yeah, let's start a business. All I knew was my whole life I loved to help people and I was learning again how much I loved to have fun. Guess the combo worked!

Organized Solutions is 7 years old today!

Hot Damn!!

I am so thankful for all the people I have met, clients who I have helped and companies who have contacted me. Thank you for reading this blog and commenting.

None of this could have been possible without my boys in my life. These dudes rock my world and keep my head on straight. They have been the best business partners anyone could ask for. It is so awesome to see their enthusiasm for our business.

To celebrate, we are giving away 4 hours to someone in need of getting organized. We need to hear your story. This could be yourself or someone you care about. Send me your nomination by September 30, 2011 and my boys and I will select our recipient. We need to keep this local to the surrounding Toledo area, though I will work to find help for those out of the area. I know professional organizers across the country who can help you.

My email address: angie "at" iorganizeyou.com

Thank you for all your help and support.
You all ROCK!!

Who do you need to thank for your success?

Organizing your Car's Trunk

2011-08-31T14:39:00.000-05:00

As you make a turn in your car, do you hear the tumbling of water bottles, soccer equipment and empty beverage cans/bottles bouncing about behind you?

If you don't have a plan to contain these items, every time you go to place your groceries into your trunk you will be greeted with chaos leaving you no clear area to plop your newly purchased items.

Here is one quick organizing solution for getting your items organized in your car trunk:

Organizing your junk in your trunk: foxtoledo.com

(Now, I never said "Junk," nor as a professional organizer would I refer to your items as such.)

With your new plan to keep your daily trunk items in one place, you now have lots of free space for all your shopping needs.

What is the oddest thing you found in your trunk?

Do You Seriously Dust Your Magazines?

2011-08-22T19:31:00.001-05:00

Magazines.

Who knew these innocent little reads could cause such headaches as the pile up around you, if you do not keep them in control.

Here's a quick organizing video from Your Rocket Organizer to help encourage you to get your magazines purged and organized:

Organizing your old magazines: foxtoledo.com

Grab a brown paper grocery bag and start loading it up with your old magazines. Any magazine over 3 months has got to go. Most articles are available on-line if that is your justification for keeping it. If there is a layer of dust on them, it has got to go. (plus do you seriously want to dust a magazine?)

Please consider dropping off your magazines to a recycling center or check with you local school to see if they may need them for art projects.

Remember getting organized is an investment in yourself.

Enjoy the day!

What's your favorite magazine?

Organizing for Back to School

2011-08-15T10:42:00.000-05:00

Back to school can be a stressful time of year. Families must change from the laid-back summer schedule to the non-stop school and activity calendars that keep you jumping from one activity to the next without a moment's rest.

Here are some tips:

Plan Ahead - The only way you can command your time is to consciously map it. When you monitor your family schedule, you can then plan how and when to accomplish important back-to-school tasks, such as replacing clothes, purchasing school supplies, and attending back-to-school night. Stock your kids' homework stations with pencil and paper basics while purchasing classroom items.

Plan for Paper - Before you start stacking all those important school papers in a long forgotten corner of your kitchen, or on top of last month's bills, put your paper trail in place beginning with in/out boxes for each family member. Show everyone where to place their papers and then sort them daily with your planner at hand to note important deadlines and tasks.

Plan to Purge - We all do better with a clean, organized environment. If you haven't yet gone through everyone's closets, dressers, and bedrooms while evaluating wardrobes for school, do it as soon as you have your routine in motion. Make room for the year ahead by rounding up all outgrown items, discarding everything that can't be repaired, both in the toy and clothing departments. For items in good condition, arrange for a charitable donation or enlist your kids' help and plan a yard sale in late September.

School starts September 6th for my boys here in Michigan.
I'm working on our family schedule for the Fall.
I've got the paper plan down.
I need to dump out my boys dressers and see what fits.

Guess I better get to work......Ah, but it is a beautiful sunny day.
Back to school stuff can wait one more day.

Are you ready for the school year?

Big, Thick, Black ...

2011-08-09T12:20:00.000-05:00

Either you make lists or you do not.

Chances are if you DO make lists, you are getting things done more efficiently and without the stress of:

"D'OH! I forgot the bread!"

In this clip Your Rocket Organizer (me ... smile), chats about lists and how they can help you get organized:

Rocket Organizer: Make a list: foxtoledo.com

What's the funniest thing you have added to your list only to cross off?

Diaper Rash Ointment for your College Kid ... Really?

2011-07-25T09:26:00.000-05:00

Sticky cough syrup bottles.
Deep blue, sparkly eye shadow from 1985.
Orange pills in a faded prescription bottle.
... diaper rash ointment!?! and your kid is heading off to college??

If you have similar items in your home, perhaps it is time to organize your bathroom cabinet. Remove all those bottles, jars and boxes out of your cabinet or drawer. Use your favorite cleaning method to wipe the area clean.

Here's a quick video from FOX Toledo featuring me, Your Rocket Organizer:

Organizing your medicine cabinet: foxtoledo.com

Now, seriously look at all the stuff you pulled out. Begin placing the items you use everyday back. Check expiration dates on the bottles and jars. If you are REALLY using it, then place it back. If not, then it's gotta go.

Remember all this organizing work is an investment in yourself.

What's the oldest bottle you found?

Using Some Thing for Something Else and Making Your Life Easier ... YEAH!!

2011-07-21T06:37:00.000-05:00

Big storage bins are a wonderful way to corral and organize your stuff. Though these big storage boxes can become a black hole for many small items that easily make their way to the bottom

... Never to be seen again.

Thinking outside the box (pun completely intended), will give your deep, darkly hidden items life and purpose in your world. Plus you'll be able to find them quick and easy ... Hooray!!

Check out this organizing trick:

Organizing outdoor tools, supplies: foxtoledo.com

Sometimes the solution to your organizing and storage woes are outside of the area focus.
In this example: Using trash bins in a storage locker.

What's your favorite use of some "thing" for something else?

Organizing those Damn Legos!

2011-07-12T08:57:00.000-05:00

Oh, if you have kids you have casually walked into a room (or perhaps even dashed), to only have a Lego building block attempt to pierce the ball of your foot as you begin to scream a list of expletives like a sailor.

@$*#&# &%#@*! %$&^*#@!!

Here's a great little trick you can use to help organize those little landmines:

Organizing your loose toys: foxtoledo.com

If you give your kids some tools and guidance, they can be organized. They spend all day in school making sure all the pencils, papers and scissors all end up in the correct spot. Your kids can be organized at home too ... though you need to be an example to them, as well.

What's the worst toy you have stepped on?

Gotta Love Kant

2011-06-28T19:28:00.001-05:00

A recent organizing project client found this quote on her Dove candy bar wrapper:

“Science is organized knowledge. Wisdom is organized life.”
~Immanuel Kant

Being a rocket scientist I love it!
Adding the fact of being a professional organizer ... I love it even more!!

Just as Einstein leads us to believe that wisdom is a lifelong attempt to acquire it. Being organized is ALSO a lifelong attempt to acquire it.

I am the first to admit. My life is in a constant state of chaos, meaning also my desk at any moment (and sock drawer) is always at the brink of disaster.

Believe you will be organized and work at it as you can.
Be consistent with your purpose and you will achieve your goal.

I believe in you. Do you?

What is your favorite quote?

That Cable Bird's Nest in Your Home

2011-06-23T09:16:00.001-05:00

You gotta love all those electrical gadgets we have to make our lives easier.

But those cords ... oh, dear those cords and cables!

Here's a quick trick to keeping your electrical cables organized:

Unsorting, coordinating cables: foxtoledo.com

Find your twisted, tangled up mess of cables and start sorting them out.
Get them organized into neat little bundles, getting rid of those you no longer use or have no idea what device they go to.

How big is your cable nest?

Organizing Your Man's Tools

2011-06-05T08:36:00.000-05:00

Surprise organizing projects are exciting!

"Carol" asked me to get her husband's tools organized as a surprise for Father's Day. This was a project he has talked about doing for quite some time, alas finding the time to organize the area never seem to happen.

Every time Carol's husband went to start a home project, he had to climb over and dig through his supplies. It was frustrating because he was constantly wasting time looking for the tools he needed. And when his project was finished, he pretty much just set his tool wherever he could balance them without everything tumbling to the ground.

Now, touching a man's tools is nearly as dangerous as messing with a woman's closet, especially if they do not know. Carol gave me some guidance on what her husband would like, then pretty much let me loose to work some organizing magic.

Nearly everything was removed from the area and grouped into like groups; paints, power tools, cords, fasteners, tapes, etc. The shelving was slid together a bit to save floor space and EVERYTHING went back onto the shelves.

Seriously, there was a small grocery bag of scrap papers and broken items removed. That was it. Hey, I know better than tossing out a man's tool without asking. The results was pretty remarkable.

Carol was so excited with the results. Better yet, her husband was pleasantly shocked at his newly organized tool room. Hooray!!

What project would you love to be done for you?

Farting and Organizing ... it's all good

2011-06-02T07:21:00.000-05:00

So, my youngest son walks up to me and says:
"Mom, I think getting organized is like farting."
"Um ... why is that?", as I snicker (oh, you laughed too)
"Because both make you feel good after you do it."
~wise words from a 10.5 year old boy.

With two boys, we live daily on hourly fart jokes.

Getting organized truly does make you feel better.

You can breathe easier.

You're less stressed.

And, you're out enjoying life.

Find some time, even 5 minutes, each day to focus and become more organized. Need some guidance on where to start?

Try these Challenges.

“Don’t take life too seriously.
You’ll never get out alive.”
Bugs Bunny

(note: In 21 years, Bugs never dropped a fart joke)

What made you laugh today?

Spring Organizing Your Garage

2011-05-25T14:12:00.001-05:00

Wheew! It was hot today and I was lovin' it.

Summer time is the best time for me.

It was a perfect day to clean out a garage.

Lyndsay was tired of looking at her garage with all the stuff stacked,

"There is just too much stuff. I need to purge."

We did more than purge.
We set items aside for a garage sale, took a LOAD of items to Goodwill for donation, and found a few treasures. Even some items that had not been opened from the boxes delivered.
(they were lost in the stacks)

My car was loaded with items. After we unloaded everything, I took a picture of the items Lyndsay was donating. It is a good idea to have a snapshot of items you donate. No need for every shirt, plate, and nick-nack donated.

We then returned and continued to dust off the shelves, sweep the floor, clean a garage closet and sort through boxes of Christmas items.

Lyndsay was so excited she was going to be able to get her car into the garage without worry about banging into items.
Plus, she has all her garage sale items in one area ready to be sold.
AND, she can now make paninis with her griddle and fresh juice from her juicer. Items she purchased but the boxes were lost.

Great, fun HOT pre-summer day!!

What have you purchased but never used?

Grab Your Toilet Paper and Get Organized

2011-05-14T07:56:00.001-05:00

It's your home.
You have lived there for years and become accustom to how things are.

Look around your home
and pick a room.
What do you see?

One BIG, HUGE mess with no hope of EVER getting organized. Why even bother? You've lived this long with it. Yeah, you feel overwhelmed and cranky about it, though there is nothing you can really do. It's just too much.

You have a problem. And, yeah, it may be a pretty big one, too. The thing is that all BIG problems are made of up smaller problems. Those smaller problems are made up of tiny problems. Solving these tiny problems, is exactly what you need to accomplish to love your home again.

How do you find these tiny problems to solve?
Reduce your vision.

Here's a clip from FOX Toledo news showing you this little trick:

Focusing in on a project: foxtoledo.com

So, grab a roll of toilet paper and look through the hole.
What do you see? Tiny problems.

By reduce your vision of the entire area, you can focus on smaller tasks. As you conquer these smaller tasks, the bigger problem begins to dwindle away. You begin to breathe easier in your home. Everything seems lighter and brighter.

Pretty slick, uh?
Get out there and enjoy the day!

What did your toilet paper roll show you?

Let Go of Your Elephant

2011-05-11T16:18:00.000-05:00

It's ugly.
It's useless.
It makes you cringe.

Even though [insert name here]
gave it to you,
Get it out of your home.

... and if they ask about it, blame me for getting rid of it.

What's your elephant?

Happy Mother's Day Mom ... I Love You!

2011-05-06T06:37:00.003-05:00

In the darkest hours and the brightest moments, I knew to never question my mom's love and pride for me.

She has made me who I am today: strong, confident, happy, peaceful, funny, bold, loyal, determined, brave, fabulous, trustworthy and ... the best damn my mom in the world for my boys.

You're my mother. I would have no other.
I love you mom.

How has your mom shaped you?

Easy Access in your Fridge

2011-04-23T09:20:00.000-05:00

Many people jump to using a turntable to organize their spice racks, but what about using one in your refrigerator? You can use them to organize all your favorite items to easily bring them from the back to the front with a simple spin.

OK. Please tell me I'm not the only one reliving the 80s with Dead or Alive's, "You spin me round?"

We digress ... on to the video:

Easy access to items in fridge: foxtoledo.com

Don't limit the organizing turntable to spices, mustards and mayo.

Think about where else you could put a new "spin" on organizing.
(Oh, I feel so clever)

What is your favorite fridge item?
(yes, beer counts)

Does Your Home Need a Gastric Bypass?

2011-04-22T07:00:00.001-05:00

Today's post comes from guest blogger, Cynthia Gentit, owner of Eat that Elephant Organizing, who shares some insight on getting organized around your home.

If your house was a person, how would you rank it?

A.) Slim & Trim
B.) Needs to lose a few pounds
C.) Gastric bypass is the only answer

Now consider that an average 3 bedroom home in the U. S. (that would be B. in the list above) has 350,000 items in it. If we put that into pounds would you be surprised to know that the belongings from an average 4 bedroom home weigh 8,000 – 9,000 lbs.? If you’re an over-consumer that scale easily tops 11,000 lbs and that’s five and a half tons of stuff!

Fortunately there are less painful ways to whip your home into shape than gastric bypass. The National Association of Professional Organizers, Southeast Michigan Chapter (NAPO-MI) wants to help you get your house in shape. Follow these steps:

1. Exercise – Do a little research on the donation venues available in your area. Did you know old electronics can be recycled at no charge at your local Best Buy store? This often includes items like vacuum cleaners and fans. If you have large items like furniture and good working appliances, charities such as the Salvation Army and Habitat for Humanity ReStores offer pick up services.

2. Shed some pounds – Have anything you want to give away for free? List it on Freecycle.org, an organization dedicated to reducing landfill waste, and someone is sure to pick it up. Old newspapers, magazines and paper can be taken to any school with a green & yellow Paper Retriever dumpster in their parking lot.

3. Reduce your intake – The next time you’re in the store contemplating a purchase, ask yourself: where will this live when I get it home? Who will care for it? How will I use it? If you don’t have a clear answer for at least two of these questions walk away and reconsider the purchase later. Nine times out of ten, you won’t go back.

4. Change your habits – Make a permanent spot for a donation box or bin in your home. Let every family member know where it is. When you come across an item you could donate put it in the bin and take it to your favorite charity when the bin is full. And by the way, take your kids with you and let them see you lead by example.

Thank you Cynthia for sharing your post and giving us some great tips on trimming down our homes and living a more organized life.

Now, consider Cynthia's advice. If your home is not making you happy, you have the power to change it. You can do it!

How do you rank YOUR home?

Get Organized, Be Lazy

2011-04-15T08:13:00.001-05:00

You know.
The more organized you are.
The lazier you can be.

Be lazy can be very, very good.
Another fabulous reason to get organized.
Perhaps in addition to being a professional organizer, I am also a productivity specialist in the art of enabling laziness. (just a thought)

How do you enjoy being lazy?

Freedom of Speech

2011-04-14T07:34:00.004-05:00

Nearly 5 years and over 550 posts on this blog, I needed to defend my 1st amendment right in court this week.

Life is a crazy roller coaster ride which I enjoy immensely. The twists and turns is what makes it so much fun!!

The beauty of our amazing country, is we have the freedom to voice our opinions, thoughts, stories and ideas.

The United States Bill of Rights states as our First Amendment Right:

"Congress shall make no law respecting an establishment of religion, or prohibiting the free exercise thereof; or abridging the freedom of speech, or of the press; or the right of the people peaceably to assemble, and to petition the Government for a redress of grievances."
The overwhelming majority of articles and videos on this blog are focused on ideas, tips, and encouragement on helping you get organized. There are a few posts which have been written because as I work with a client or some event happens in life, compels me to share my thoughts, My Story.

This is done because I know there is someone out in the world going through a difficult time and sometimes just knowing a stranger survived lends encouragement and support for you to get through the day, hour ... hell, there have been times when I just wanted survive the minute.

To all this I say, thank you.

For those who see me for what they want to see, that is your choice.

For those who take the time to know me, let's enjoy the ride.

What story do you want to share?

Organized = Smarter

2011-04-05T09:26:00.000-05:00

Being organized is about working SMARTER, not harder.

There are certain things worthly of working hard for:
- "A+" on an exam
- Promotion at work
- 6 pack abs
- Achieving 3 stars on all levels of Angry Birds
(OK. that one may not be "worthy")

Searching for your keys, loosing that monthly report ... again and driving to the store to get milk only to come home and find out you need eggs and bread are NOT ways to be spending your precious time stressing out.

Getting organizing is not about working harder in life.
Getting organized is about working smarter.

Be smart.
Get organized.

What is worthy working hard for in your life?

Organizing your closet, No More Waterfalls!

2011-03-31T18:41:00.000-05:00

You've been out have a fantastic day.

As you get home, you just want to jump into your jammies, enjoy your favorite beverage and watch some TV.

Though as you open up your closet to hang your jacket ...
SMASH, CRASH, BOOM!

Stuff comes tumbling out on top of you!

Well, check out this latest video for a great organizing tip on optimizing your closets:

What item has tumbled out on you?

I'm Getting Organized! (coupon ... hooray!)

2011-03-28T13:29:00.001-05:00

For 2 months we worked and worked with Groupon to get an awesome deal out there to help you get organized.

Alas, the efforts failed and the Groupon offer never came to be.

In the mighty words of Underdog:

"Have no fear ..."

we will go forward with the offer.

2 hours of Professional Organizing services for the price of 1

Value: $130

Discount: 50% savings to you, our loyal fans and friends

You save: $65

Offer available until April 1, 2011

The fine print:
- 2 for 1 deal must be used by August 31, 2011
- Limit 1 per household, though purchasing for others is always a good thing.
- Materials, supplies and travel fee (if necessary) are not included.
- Cannot be combined with other offers.
- Appointment is necessary

How do you get this amazing offer to get your sexy butt organized?
1. Use the Google checkout located on the right column of this blog and enter the coupon code, "I'mgettingorganized!" (yes, you can use your credit card)
2. Contact me email or phone, 734.890.1276, and tell me
"That's it! I'm getting organized!"
3. Find me on the street, walk right up to me and ask.

Please share this with all your friends and family to spread the word.

This offer is only available until 5pm Friday, April 1st.

So do not wait!!

What area are you FINALLY looking to get organized?

Vision Board 2011

2011-03-24T20:17:00.000-05:00

FINALLY!!

My vision board for 2011 is done and hanging on a door in my bathroom. Not sure why it has taken nearly 3 months to get this done, but it's all good:

I've been creating a yearly vision board for 5 years now.

It's pretty awesome to look back on the previous year and see all that has come to be.

This year I have some pretty cool intentions. Cannot wait to be apart of the adventure ahead!

LOVE IT!!

So far 2011 has been pretty rockin!

What is your vision for the year?

Time to Organize Your Garage

2011-03-24T07:47:00.000-05:00

Getting your cars parked in your garage may be a dream to you, though now is the time to get your garage organized. Seems everyone is out there, cleaning out from the change of seasons. Getting ready storing away the nasty snowthrower and dusting off the lawnmowers. Beginning the project, for many people, is the toughest part.

You see the piles of stuff and the shelves overflowing with items randomly tossed about for storage. Here's how you can go about organizing a garage:

step #1: Notes - Look at every wall or area and right down notes on items seen, comments made by my client or in your case little thoughts that drift into your head. It's OK to write, "absolute disaster" or "hopeless mess." Just get it down on paper. Doesn't have to be a novel, random notes are perfect.

step #2: Ideas - Envison what your garage would look like. Use your walls for storing as much as possible. Think shelves, racks, hooks, bins, bags, etc. All of these ideas can be attached to the wall, getting your stuff off the floor.

step #3: Plan - Maybe take a bit of a break and let your thoughts simmer. Come back into your garage and plan what you are going to do. Take some measurements for shelving. Remember to use the studs as much as possible, this will keep your stuff on the walls. Studs are typically every 16 inches along the wall length.

step#4: Action - Get your garbage bags ready, boxes for donations and rev up those power tools ... the organizing party is about to begin. Hang up your shelves first, if possible. This gives you space to store the items you use. Items you do NOT use do NOT go on a shelf, trash or donate. Work around your garage and find homes for the things you use. You will be left with stuff that is has no use in your home.

step #5: Clean Up - You will be left with stuff that has no use in your home. Donate or trash it. Get it out of your life. It's OK to part with stuff. Sweep up the floor and pull your car into the garage. Reward yourself for a job well done!

What random thought do you have about your garage?

Organizing Your Office Desktop

2011-03-18T15:47:00.000-05:00

Well, even professional organizers need some help getting organized from time to time.

Here we take a peek at an office where the owner is about to do a complete "Arm Sweep," clearing all items from the desktop in one swoop:

If Hong Kong Phooey is the #1 Super Guy ... who is #2?

Slow down and Breathe ...

2011-03-16T09:25:00.000-05:00

Clearing Clutter in your Kitchen Drawers

2011-03-14T11:12:00.000-05:00

Do you have a bouquet of spatulas and other items that are over 5 years old, still in their packaging, lingering in your kitchen tools?

Perhaps it is time to let some of those items go.

Check out another organizing tip from Your Rocket Organizer on FOX Toledo news:

Clearing clutter in your drawers: foxtoledo.com

Now that you can easily get into your kitchen tools quick without slicing your fingers on your potato peeler, make sure you get outside and enjoy the day!

It's beautiful and so are you!

How many spatulas do you have?

Spring Break Packing Tip from Your Rocket Organizer

2011-03-09T17:54:00.000-05:00

OK, I'm playing catch-up on getting the FOX Toledo Rocket Organzing videos posted.
Not giving out any excuses. My fault for the delay.

In this video, we are offering a great organizing tip for your Spring Break trip and a great way to save $25-35 or more each way on your airfare:

Packing a carry-on for spring break: foxtoledo.com

FOX has been so incredibly kind to put together a webpage with all these organizing videos (click here).

I will continue to post the videos as quickly as possible here, too!

What is your "MUST HAVE" for travelling?

Arrg ... It's a Treasure Hunt Matey!

2011-03-04T16:13:00.000-05:00

Beautiful sunny days.
Warm solid hugs.
Laughter of kids playing outside.

Those a a few things that pop into my head that make me feel good. I've been playing a little game lately by myself using everyone that I come across during the day. From the moment I wake up in the morning with my boys, to the person pumping gas across from me, onto the guy in the car that cut me off, and the lady I held the door for as she entered a store.

The game is simple.

1.As you come across people during the day, acknowledge at least one positive quality that they brought to you.
2. The object is to find that quality that you find attractive.
3. As soon as you identify it, write it down.

Examples from my list:
Made me laugh
Said "thank you"
New client excited about working with me
Helped me make a connection
Taught me patience
Cooked a great meal
Beautiful eyes

This "game" will result in a list of qualities you treasure.
Treasures you desire in your life and business.
These traits are perfect for you to have and attract.
You are limited by only how much treasure you can amass.

As you acknowledge more and more positive treasures in your daily life, the negative events become smaller and smaller. Until they become simply a minor bumps in the road and perhaps create a moment for you to enjoy the little bumpy ride in life.

Spend a day on your personal treasure hunt.
What qualities did you find for yourself?

Ready for Your Organizing Tune-up?

2011-02-18T11:02:00.000-05:00

Ever get that feeling perhaps things could be working a little bit better? Everything is working pretty good around your home, though you are finding yourself a tad frustrated or worn out. Perhaps it is time to do a little tweeking to get things back to running smoothly again.

Items have found home in areas they should not be:
- Are you looking for clean clothes in the laundry room because they haven't quite made it to your bedroom?
- Has the pile of papers (ok, piles) on your desk seem to be growing while you sleep?
- Items in the kitchen counters are STILL on the kitchen counters instead of in their place in the cabinets?
-Your garage is ... well, perhaps that is a future post all on its own ...
- Kids toys have infiltrated your living room.

I will admit that even I, the rocket scientist of professional organizing, is in need of a Tune-Up in my home (hey, ever heard of the plumber who has leaky pipes in his home?). The hussle and hassles of life happens to us all, and sometimes our homes get out of whack. If you recognized something isn't jiving like it used to, that is a signal that you need to take action.

First, take a deep breath and slowly blow it out (may repeat a few times, if needed)
Now, pick a room and grab the items that are out of place and get them to their home. If the items belong in another room, place them near the door or stairway. Do NOT leave the room. If you are working on your desk paper pile (oh yeah, piles), grab it and get the papers filed or trashed.

Enlist the help of your kids to get their toys picked up. They know where their clothes, as well as yours, are suppose to go too. Get them to help.

You should be able to spend 10-15 minutes in each room tweeking it back into shape. If you have more time, fantastic!

You will be surprised how just a little organizing tune up will make your home feel and run better. Remember, life is meant to be enjoyed in big scoops.

What odd thing did you find in a strange spot?

It's Just Water

2011-02-11T08:13:00.000-05:00

A small basement flood reminds me of this post of 4 years ago (Yeah, this blog is nearly 5 years old). Not much significant was lost. Most of what needs to be tossed are items I really should not have anymore anyway ... bonus in all of this is we will have a spanking clean basement.

Here's the post from February 14, 2007:

One Friday at 5:10pm, trying to get my two boys into the car so I can get them to the "drop and flop" (my nickname for the halfway meeting location) for their weekend with their dad. As we are rushing out the door, Jacob knocks over a full glass of water.

Water goes EVERYWHERE!
Jacob's face bursts into tears.
Matthew has this look of terror on his face
("Oh man, mom is going to FREAK!").

My reaction:
"WOW! You know, I needed to clean the floor and you just helped me out. It is OK. Let's clean this up together."

I cannot tell you the joy that came over Jacob's face.

It would have been quite easy for me to "FREAK" and point out how we were going to be even more late. It was so much better for us all to just stop, each grab a towel, wipe up the floor and leave the house happy.....not to mention our floor was a bit cleaner.

Next time something out of control happens, think about the choice you have in your reaction.

Does your reaction help the situation you are in?
You have a split moment to choose a positive outcome.

How has your positive reaction changed the outcome of a bad situation?

Put on Your Boogie Shoes!

2011-02-09T08:03:00.000-05:00

Moving is stressful alone, let alone when you are rushed into it, which is exactly what happened with "Mary." The rushed moved caused her basement to become the dumping ground.

The first area we needed to pick up a bit to be able to assemble a desk. The tricky part was trying to figure out how to put the desk together without instructions. Once that assembled, Mary now had a raise working surface to sort through boxes. Later, her daughters could use the desk for crafting, games or puzzles.

Mary's daughters are big into dance and even has an area in her basement set up for them to practice. Though with the sudden move, the dance floor was the covered in boxes, bags and random household items. Box by box, we sorted through the pile, putting items away as we went. The dance floor was found again and Mary had an idea of what was left in each box she needed to sort through.

Out of all of this, there was one large bag of trash and two boxes of donation items. Mary's daughters will look through their toys and find more to donate. Mary will look through her boxes and find more to trash. In the end, the basement will be back in shape ready for practicing new dance moves and lounging around the TV.

"It's gonna take 13 hours to clean this mess up," Mary thought.
Well, we worked for 3 hours.
She has a bit more work to do, but way less than 13 hours.

What's your favorite type of dance music?

Just Some Random Thoughts

2011-02-07T08:48:00.000-05:00

Ever get a bunch of random thoughts in your head and wonder why the heck am it thinking about this? Uh ... well ... I do (don't judge me).

Here's what is tumbling out of my head:

1. Think about where you want to be right now, what are you doing to get there?

2. Teaching your kids how to ride a bike is one of the greatest joys in the world.

3. If you could be any animal, what animal would you be?

4. Laughing everyday is key to success.

5. I LOVE jealous, mean people. Proves to me I am doing the right thing.

6. Life is precious, why waste it doing something boring?

7. Go to college.

8. Hong Kong Phooey IS the #1 super guy.

9. Everything in moderation is good.

10. Live life with no regrets.

11. You cannot fault honesty.

12. Why do we still need warnings on plastic bags?

13. Cheaters = Losers. Stay away from them.

14. If you are told, "Wow, you're cheap." Time to raise your rates!

15. Nothing better that people watchin'

16. F=ma

17. When in doubt, ask for help.

18. NEVER SETTLE!

19. Mountain Biking after a thunderstorm is Fantastic!

20. Don't be judgemental of others.

21. Singing to Meatloaf Videos with an electrical cord is perhaps the best night of my life!

That's the list I came up with.

What are your 3 random thoughts right now?

Thank you for your help in shaking up the organizing world

2011-02-04T08:45:00.001-05:00

In the most wonderful words of STYX:

"Tonight's the night we'll make history ..."

The premier of the "Organized Solutions" segment will air on FOX Toledo News at 6:30pm. Then you can tune in EVERY FRIDAY to learn a fun, sexy, sassy organizing trick.

WOW!

There were so many times I was so close to quitting.
Damn thankful to have pushed through and make it to today.

There were people who told me to get a "real job" or that I was "working below my ability." To them I say thank you as well. You pushed me to rise above your criticisms.

Most importantly. I want to thank you: my readers, fans, friends, family and the Universe for all your support, comments, thoughts, laughter, tears and pride. I certainly could not have made it this far without you.

Thank you.
Thank you.
Thank you.

WOW!

Who are you thankful for today?

Time to Get Organized: Challenge #10

2011-01-31T08:16:00.000-05:00

Saving one of the worst,
most dreaded organizing tasks out there
for the last of our organizing challenge series.

Though it must be done.

And, if you can come up with a system, you will save a TON of time.

Today's organizing project:
Your paper filing system

Sort & Purge those files
Reward: Tell the kids they can have cookies for breakfast
if they let you sleep in.

Organizing paper is very tedious and time consuming. It is likely that as you begin, every paper needs to be glanced at to figure out "why am I keeping this?" Once you get on a roll, hopefully the papers will begin to fly into the recycling bin or shredder.

Not sure what you need to keep? Check out this post:
"Do I Really Need My Last 5 Years of Electric Bills?"

If you're computer savy, toss the majority of manuals because they are available on-line. Think about your Federal and State tax line items, perhaps set up a folder for each one this year. Saving a big of time and effort rather than sorting a wad of receipts at the end of the year.

Think about how paper moves in and out of your home. Set up your filing system to work with it. For all the great filing systems out there, they will not work unless you use them.

What is the oldest manual you had filed away?

Time to Get Organized: Challenge #9

2011-01-28T07:55:00.000-05:00

"One of these things is not like the others,
One of these things just doesn't belong,
Can you tell which thing is not like the others
By the time I finish my song?"

Aaaahh, the classic Sesame Street song.

Who knew you could use something you learned on Sesame Street to get organized?

Today's organizing project:

A Scavenger Hunt.
Walk around your home and pick up items that do not belong.Reward: Schedule an appointment for yourself, a lunch date,
doctor visit, hair or nails, something you need to do for YOU.

This is a GREAT little organizing project because everyone in your home can play along.

Grab a bag, box or basket and simply walk around an area in your home and pick up items that do not belong. After you have gathered your stuff, then take and put the items back where they belong.

You may have many items that no longer even belong in your home. Those need to leave your home, either donate or trash. Your challenge should be to grab 27 items to stimulate good Feng Shui energy in your home.

Who's your favorite Sesame street character?

Time to Get Organized: Challenge #8

2011-01-25T07:47:00.000-05:00

When you are surrounded by too much stuff, you just can't see all the good stuff you really have.

Look about the area you are sitting at right now. I bet there are at least five things you could pick up and put them away where they belong or just TOSS THEM. Look for dusty stuff if you're struggling ... it is Monday.

Today's organizing project:
Your work area.

Look for at least 5 items to pick up or throw away
Reward: take 5 minutes to think about what you are thankful for.

Moving stuff is good Feng Shui. You know it is good for your body to get up and move around from time to time. If your work area is feeling a bit bogged down, give this Feung Shui magic trick a shot.

You've moved your five items and thought about a few great things in your life. That, my friend, is an AWESOME way to start off the day.

Get out there and have some fun!

What are you thankful for today?

Making Your Closet Work for You

2011-01-24T07:00:00.003-05:00

Oh, we all can get sooooo frustrated about things in life.
Your home should not be one of those areas.

"Molly" loved her room, alas her closets were quite annoying because they did not seem to work for her. Lots of space, yet no idea how to make all the fabulous space work better for her.

She even went out and bought a closet kit to install herself, though as all the pieces came tumbling out, Molly soon realized this closet organizing project was a bit out of her comfort zone.

Her first closet was a blank canvas of organizing possibilities. Hanging space was not a priority so we discussed shelving options. Looking at the closet kit she purchased, we talked about installing some fixed shelving instead. Molly's purchased kit was pricey and not going to be a perfect fit for her needs.

For about half the price of Molly's original closet shelving purchase, we installed 3 fixed shelves. Here she could place all her sweatshirts, jeans, shirts and other personal items. Easy to select an item and, more importantly, easy to put away when done.

On the floor, we assembled two Closetmaid Cubeicals and laid them on their side. These would be perfect for handbags, purses and all those little things that seem to tumble about at the bottom of a closet.

Molly was delighted!

In Molly's other closet, she was pretty happy with the long hanging space. To keep her shoes from piling up on the floor in a heap, we assembled two Closetmaid Horizontal Organizers. These long open shelving units are wonderful for organizing shoes.

All these products used to help organize Molly's closets ended up saving her money because they were about half the total cost of the original closet organizing system she purchased. PLUS, now she feels like her closets are exactly the way she wants them to be.

No more frustration = Happy Molly

... and that makes me happy too!

What area of your home is frustrating to you?

Organized Solutions is coming to FOX Toledo

2011-01-23T11:35:00.003-05:00

With shows like American Idol, Glee and Fringe, FOX Toledo is about to launch into the professional organizing world with a weekly segment (OK, so it's not a full fledge "show" but it is certainly a start) entitled "Organized Solutions."

Here's a little article that appeared in the Monroe Evening News about this upcoming news:

Filming of the first episodes will begin this week. "Organized Solutions" will start out as quick 1-2 minute tips that you can do yourself around your home to become more organized. The segments will air on Friday nights on FOX Toledo News at 6:30pm beginning February 4th.

There will be posting and links of all videos coming soon to this blog and the website.

Anyone have Oprah, Ellen, or Conan's numbers?
They should probably be watching.

Time to Get Organized: Challenge #7

2011-01-21T07:42:00.000-05:00

Sitting in your closet for months, years, waiting to be used. Yet, nope ... just doesn't happen. Your old towels and sheets are "too good" to throw out and you just cannot part with them.

So they sit ... and sit ...
in your linen closet waiting for the day you will need 6 blue bath towels sets, even though your bathroom is now green. Then there are the double size sheet sets you still have, alas now you have a queen size bed. Yet there is nothing wrong with the double sheet set except they do not fit your bed.

Today's organizing project:
Your Linen Closet.

Remove towels or sheets that are not being used
Reward: Kick back, enjoy your favorite beverage
and think about the last time you laughed REALLY hard
(if its been too long, go rent "The Hangover.")

My favorite place to donate linens to are your local animal shelter. They are always in need of towels, sheets, blankets, rugs ... heck anything to wipe up a mess or let the animals cuddle up into for a nap.

By organizing your linen closet, you are going to end up with a TON more room. Instead of blankets tumbling out everytime you open the door to grab a fresh towel, everything will stay in place. Plus, you'll only have your freshest and softest towels for available for use.

One week left in National Get Organized month and hopefully you are beginning to feel a bit lighter around your home, the air seems easier to breathe and you are able to relax and enjoy yourself more.

What made you laugh REALLY hard?

Your Black Hole Room

2011-01-20T07:52:00.000-05:00

It's that one area of your home that just seems to suck the happiness out of you.

You know where it is.
You try not to look at it.
You believe that it will
go away on its own.

.....It doesn't, in fact it may even begin to grow.

This was the "Energy Blackhole" for "Mary".

Her home is full of creativity with handpainted walls, floorboards and pictures everywhere. However, Marya's office was bringing her down. I worked with her to get her desktop area under control, then she had me come back for.....(bum, bum, bahm)

....the supply closet.

You could feel the area brighten as I started boxing up old business literature and binders from conferences long past. Supplies were found hidden behind bags and under books. A small pile of items were left for her to sort through...hopefully, "toss."

I was a bit nervous leaving Mary's home. I felt wonderful about her office, but wasn't sure how she would like it.

The next morning Mary called me: "I LOVE IT!"

She feels energized when she goes into her office. Her son made a comment...yes, I said her son...that he was amazed at the difference in how the room felt.

Mary, it was my pleasure helping you conquer your energy drain.

Now, What area of your home is sucking the life out of you?

Get a garbage bag and fill it up....YOU WILL FEEL BETTER!!

Time to Get Organized: Challenge #6

2011-01-18T08:37:00.000-05:00

Recently found a can of soup from 1998 in a client's pantry which got me thinking about our next organizing challenge:

Today's project: Your Pantry.

Pull everything out, clean the shelves
and organize those cans and boxes
Reward: Rent that movie you keep passing,
yet you always look at it.
Oh, you'll need some popcorn, too
(hey, this is bigger than a 10 min project)

Organizing your pantry is a great weekend project. It's not going to take all weekend (I hope), though it will be longer than 10-15 minutes.

Remove everything from your "pantry" or the area you have all your food items. As you take items out, organized them into like groups:
soups, veggies, rice, pastas, sauces, treats, snacks, etc ...

You also will need to make sure you LIKE the stuff you are keeping and you will USE it. If it is from 1998 and you moved it from one home to your current home and you still have it, uh ... you're not going to use it in 2010.

Now, there will be crumbs and crusties about on the shelves.
Everyone has them.
I don't know how they get there, they just do.

You've got your storage area cleaned up.
Start placing your stuff back in the area using the groups you have sorted items.

Boom Baby!
You are ready to enjoy that goofy movie because your pantry is a sassy, sexy organized pantry.

What movie you chillin' with tonight?

Time to Get Organized: Challenge #5

2011-01-14T07:56:00.000-05:00

Magazines.
Who knew these innocent little reads could cause such headaches as the pile up around you, if you do not keep them in control.

Today's organizing project:
Your Magazines.

Clear out your magazines.
Reward: When taking a shower, linger for
an extra couple minutes with your eyes closed.

Grab a brown paper grocery bag and start loading it up with your old magazines. Any magazine over 3 months has got to go. Most articles are available on-line if that is your justification for keeping it. If there is a layer of dust on them, it has got to go. (plus do you seriously want to dust a magazine?)

Please consider dropping off your magazines to a recycling center or check with you local school to see if they may need them for art projects.

The National Association of Professional Organizers (NAPO) has deemed January as National Get Organized Month. Michigan Governer, Jennifer Granholm recently signed a proclamation in support of being more organized in 2010.

Remember getting organized is an investment in yourself.

Enjoy the day!

What's your favorite magazine?

Organizing a Better Storage Room

2011-01-12T15:33:00.001-05:00

"This is not working and you need to cast your organizing magic," Jennifer stated about her business' storage room.

"Jennifer" had just moved into a bigger, brighter beautiful new location yet the storage room was a huge headache for her and her colleagues. She wanted peace, calmness and especially some much more functional plan for this space.

We took some measurements and talked about the options available. Looked at the items Jennifer had in this storage room and how to organize those items and supplies in a much better method.

Jennifer was also looking to remove the bulky wooden cabinet that was falling apart and wanted a fresh, crisp look to the room. Plus she wanted an area for her colleagues personal belongings to be stored.

Jennifer ended up deciding on an awesome chrome finished storage shelving unit (bonus: it's on wheels). This item slid perfectly into the back of the storage room. Here we would organize and store all the business supplies and merchandise stock. There is even room to place a microwave oven, too.

The open shelving made the room feel so much bigger. Plenty of room for the small refrigerator. Also a cubbie storage system was assembled for use by the entire staff of the business. Here, everyone would have their own little area to store their personal belongings through out the day, PLUS a way of leaving notes and mail for each other. Hooray!

Finally the last item Jennifer asked for were coat hooks. When thinking about hooks always think about using double hooks as opposed to single ones. Double hooks typically use nearly the same amount of wall space to install, though the benefit is you now have two hooks. Might not seem like much, but it does make a difference when you are cramped for space.

Also, if you are tight on wall space, stagger the placement of the hooks when you install them. Meaning: Don't place them side by side at the same height on your wall. Mount one of your hooks higher and off to the side from the other. This will allow you to maximize a small wall space.

If you could wave a magic wand, what would happen?

I'm not an Organizing Ogre

2011-01-11T01:11:00.001-05:00

OK....Again, I heard something like:

"You know, I have been thinking about calling you but I was just to embarrassed."

After the consult:

"WOW! What was I thinking waiting to call you?"
"I feel there is hope for this room/closet/house."
"I can't wait to get started."

You have to admit hiring someone to enter your home for ANY project can be uncomfortable.

I am passionate about helping you feel better about your home.

I have lived in a home and felt completely uncomfortable, controlled and depressed for many years. I will NEVER live like that again. You should not either.

People think professional organizers are going to make you throw away all kinds of items. Not True. Like we are ogres--big, bossy, bold. Twisting your arms to get you to do stuff you don't want to do (maybe some are).

I am far from that.

You don't want my help
--> I am cool with that.

You want to keep 25 pairs of jeans
--> I don't think you need that many, and I will encourage you to choose your favorites. In the end, if you want 25 pairs of jeans, we need to find a place for them (Though, you may have to give up space for your 33 handbags).

If there is an area of your home that drives you nuts, do something!!

Take your junk drawer and dump it into the garbage.
Get a garbage bag and fill it up with broken/worn out toys.
Walk through your home and remove anything that just doesn't feel good or you never really liked. (Even if it is from your sister)

You will be amazed at how refreshed you feel.

If you are struggling, give me a call.
We will have fun. I promise.

Think you might be too far away? I love to travel, though you can find a local organizer at the NAPO website. There are many other fun organizers out there!

Who has surprised you with help in your home?

Time to Get Organized: Challenge #4

2011-01-10T09:14:00.001-05:00

Sticky cough syrup bottles.
Deep blue, sparkly eye shadow from 1985.
Orange pills in a faded prescription bottle.

Let's start out the New Year with a freshly cleaned and organized bathroom cabinet. Remove all those bottles, jars and boxes out of your cabinet or drawer. Use your favorite cleaning method to wipe the area clean.

Now, seriously look at all the stuff you pulled out. Begin placing the items you use everyday back. Check expiration dates on the bottles and jars. If you are REALLY using it, then place it back. If not, then it's gotta go.

This is a new year baby and you want only THE BEST stuff in your life.

Today's project: Your Medicine Cabinet.

Get rid of old makeup, expired medicine and toiletries
that you haven't used in months (umm … years?).

Reward: Extra couple minutes in the shower to do nothing
but let the hot water sooth your body

Check back for the next organizing challenge.

Remember all this organizing work is an investment in yourself.

What's the oldest bottle you found?

Time to Get Organized: Challenge #3

2011-01-07T07:52:00.000-05:00

Undeck the halls!

2011-01-06T17:48:00.000-05:00

Holidays are over and the New Year has started!!

Time to get all those holiday decorations down and stored away for another year. If you are looking for some guidance on how to organize all those items, check out this great article from the The Courier out of Findlay, OH, also known as Flag City, USA:

The article does a fantastic job breaking down the steps to "undeck" your home.
1. Take inventory
2. Light the way
3. On the ball
4. Boxes and labels
5. Wrapping in up
6. Take your time

Remember, Always take the time to reward yourself.
You are SO worth it!

What holiday item did you say "bye, bye" to in your home?

Time to Get Organized: Challenge #2

2011-01-05T08:12:00.001-05:00

Reward: Pancakes for dinner!

Are You Ready to Get Organized?

2011-01-01T11:11:00.002-05:00

It is that time of year for New Year's resolutions and perhaps getting organized in 2011 is yours. The National Association of Professional Organizers (NAPO) has deemed January as National Get Organized Month.

A national event dedicated to raising awareness of the benefits of getting organized and hiring a professional organizer to help you get it done.

January is the perfect month to get organized and start your new year off right.

Getting organized is one of the top 5
New Year's resolutions people make.
Why get organized?
At Home

Organizing your bills = bills paid on time, no late fees
Shopping for items you need = not ending up with 10 cans of tuna because they are scattered in your pantry
Get more done in less time = more time to relax and chill
Find what you need, when you need it = less stress

At Work

Bring structure and control to your workplace
Optimize workflow = increase productivity = reduced stress = happiness
Motivate your team with solutions to feeling less overloaded

So what task has been hanging over your head?
Why not make it happen?
Check it off your list,
Get it done.

Enough is enough .... time to do something about it.

What are you going to accomplish by the end of this week?

Setting Goals and New Year’s Resolutions

2010-12-29T04:44:00.001-05:00

There’s always something awesome about kicking off into a New Year. It’s a powerful feeling to know you have a brand spanking new year ahead of you and the opportunities for success are endless.

The word resolution comes from 'resolve' and means to make up one's mind or decide firmly. Take the time and reflect on where you want to go or do next.

Some of the most popular New Year resolutions are:

• Lose weight
• Stop smoking
• Spend more time with family
• Get more organized (woo hoo!!)
• Exercise more

As fellow professional organizer Theresa Brune states, “Put your goal in writing – make it clear, conscience, and thorough. The more detail, the better.”

Once you know your goals and objectives, then you need to think about a plan of action. It is often the lack of action which will stop you from achieving what you most want. There will be setbacks and frustrations as you strive to reach your goal.

“You only fail when you stop trying,” Thomas Edison.

Acknowledge and embrace these little hiccups and then get right back on track.

Setting goals and taking action can be easier than you think!

Visit the blog of the Amazing Michigan Chapter of NAPO (National Association of Professional Organizers) for more organizing tips. In fact, there will be a new organizing tip every day in January!

What is one goal for yourself in 2011?

Can You REALLY Organize a Teenager's Bedroom?

2010-12-28T17:17:00.000-05:00

Organizing in a teenager's bedroom.

Is this even possible?!?

Why yes it is!

Rocket Organizing strikes again with a new organizing video for you. Check out how to bring some coolness (is it still "cool" to say "cool" anymore?) to your bedroom by assembling a Closetmaid Cubeicals storage system:

You could not pay me to relive my teenage years. I'm thankful I was able to bring a smile to one teenager's face. (a significant triumph in itself)

If you are looking for a great organizing product, easy to assemble and an awesome price, check out the Closetmaid Cubeicals. This one was purchased on sale at Target.

What is scary about your teenager's bedroom?

Always Best to Honor your Memories

2010-12-25T11:06:00.000-05:00

"Terry" admits she get overwhelmed in attempting to stay organized. Like many of us, the dramas of life can take over and the last thing on your list of things to care for is yourself.

Terry had been hanging on to a gift certificate for my services for 11 months. The certificate made her feel good when she received it and if she used it, Terry felt it would be gone. Finally, she broke down and we met.

We talked a bit about her goals. I gave her some ideas about managing tasks to get and stay organized. Then she told me about a craft box in her attic.

This craft box was her mother's. Terry cherished this box of craft supplies. The thing is, Terry's mother passed away 11 years ago. Yes, 11 years this box sat in her attic collecting dust and funk.

She finally decided that the time had come to part with it. Terry told me she believed,

"If you release what is holding you back, good will come back."

A woman came to Terry's home from Freecycle to pick up her mother's craft box. The next week, there was a knock on Terry's front door.

The woman had returned to give Terry this Christmas display for her home. Made only from the items found in the gifted box. Terry immediately recognized certain parts of the arrangement that her mother decorated with. Needless to say, Terry was beside herself with joy and happiness. I got the chills when she told me the story.

Memories of a past loved one are good. They should be honored since they played a loving role in your life. Though if you have them cramped in a dusty, funky smelling old box in your attic, is that really a positive way to remember them?

If you are not enjoying them, perhaps it is time to part with them.
Another person will find joy in the items you give.
........ And good will come back to you.

What's in your attic?

Organizing Trick for Your Bathroom

2010-12-17T05:02:00.005-05:00

Morning are not a place for frustration or being annoyed. When you are getting ready in the morning, you ideally want your daily ritual to be easy and as simple as possible.

Here's a great little trick for organizing your bathroom, specifically your hair dryer:

Interested in more sassy, sexy fun organizing videos?
Go to RocketOrganizing.com

Rocket Organizing is about bringing something different in the organizing entertainment world: ideas and tips YOU can relate to (perhaps even tackle yourself).

What do you do in your home that you were not allow to growing up?

But Dust Bunnies are sooo Cute!

2010-12-15T13:16:00.001-05:00

It's just a mess.
Hopeless.
I don't even no where to begin.
Look, I know I have a problem.
This is so embarassing.
I have heard all kinds of lines from clients.

"I am proud of 'Marty' for taking this step to call you,"
stated the wife of Marty to me.

Marty and his wife run a couple businesses out of their home. Needless to say, it becomes a bit tricky keeping the office organized. Throw in a move a couple years ago, business doesn't stop, and the place gets out of control quickly.

Stacks of papers on the floor, covering the desk, piles on the chairs. Leaving no place to work. It was getting quite frustrating for Marty. And he was starting to get depressed about the mess because he felt terrible about their office area.

When I started working with Marty, I noticed he knew where everything was. There was some order to the mess. He was able to put away many of the needed papers and receipts quickly. Two large bags were taken to the dumpster. And, another 4-5 large plastic containers of papers were ready to be taken to a local shredding company, probably close to 200 lbs (91 kg).

6.5 hours later ... A clean desk top, no more dust bunnies!

Marty felt better about the office area.
He had a desk again and a plan to keep it organized.

Like Marty's wife, I am proud of him for tackling this project.
I am confident he WILL keep it organized.

When helping your clients,
what statements have they made to you?

Drawer Magic with Rocket Organizing

2010-12-10T06:24:00.000-05:00

Drawers.

We all have them. Many times STUFFED to the brim with pencils, screws, papers, power cords and other odds & ends. If you have your drawers organized, bonus to you.

In this video from Rocket Organizing (a new division of Organized Solutions), we take a look at an organizing magic trick to keep your drawers organized and in check:

What is your favorite drawer in your home?

Don't be a Squirrel, Get Organized

2010-12-07T09:00:00.000-05:00

Now is a great time to get your pantry organized AND help those in need. Most schools are collecting pantry items for holiday food drives, so donating is as easy as stopping by your local school.

Time to take a look through your collection of can goods and pantry items.
Anything dusty?
Label faded?
Stuff you don't even like?
Do you REALLY need 12 cans of green beans?

Set these items aside for donation.

Now, take a look and make sure cookies and peanut butter jars are not hiding in your plates or glasses. Bring all your pantry items into one area of your kitchen. This not only makes it easy to see all the food you have available, it will also save you from buying more of what you already have in your home.

Finally, set up your own family grocery store. There is a reason stores are set up this way, it's practically been perfected. All you have to do is duplicate it in your own home. Use your grocery store to reorganize your pantry items: Canned goods, pasta, snacks, condiments, etc.

Take your faded, unopened items to your local school to be used by so many other families in need.

Now, don't forget to reward yourself for your job well done.

What was the oldest pantry item found?

Organized Solutions Helps Overwhelmed Professionals

2010-12-04T12:00:00.001-05:00

Holiday gift giving can be challenging, especially if the someone has everything. But what if they have too much of everything? The Toledo Free Press interviewed yours truly as part of their gift giving guide for this holiday season:

Yes, the gift of getting organized is becoming more and more popular. You can even purchase professional organizing certificates in the right column of this blog. Look for the blue "Add to Cart" button. You can save some $$ with your larger projects AND a $10 bonus discount when you use Google Checkout.

Thank you Toledo Free Press for the great article ... You ROCK!!

What is your favorite gift you are giving this season?

Perhaps We're All a Tinge OCD

2010-12-02T08:02:00.000-05:00

OK, I'm going to jump right in an say I have a routine I must do or my day just feels weird.

One of my things:
I must put on my right sock,
then left sock,
then put on my right shoe and tie it,
then put on my left shoe and tie it.

If this sequence is jumbled up,
I will start over to bare feet and begin again
(I'll feel like I'm walking in circles all day if I don't).

Many of us have these little "routines" we do everyday. Perhaps we are aware, maybe we are oblivious though others around you are totally laughing inside at your antics. That's OK, you're happy right? Nothing wrong with having an OCD tendency here and there.

Think about this:
Being TOO organized with everything in its place. Nothing ever so slightly crooked on your walls. Perhaps to the point of shelves and bins labeled. No dust on any of your flat surfaces (Oh, I have excepted dust into my household as my friend). You may be a bit OCD.

On the other hand, you have stacks of clothes, papers, newspapers, egg crates and such everywhere. You love collections. There is a bit of order to the chaos in your home, though its just a lot of stuff. Keeping you from enjoying your home as you wish you could. This may be a bit OCD, too.

See we all, likely, at some level have OCD.
Again I believe whole-heartedly in:

"Everything in moderation is good."
Take a moment and think about what's going on in your life and home. Perhaps there is an area that has gotten a bit out of control. Lasso that bad boy and take charge.

You'll feel better.

What is your daily OCD routine?

What Value Do You Put on Being Organized?

2010-11-20T09:33:00.000-05:00

Today's world seems to function as such a crazy, fast pace. It is very easy to lose track of time and things. Just as a little snow ball rolling down Mt. Everest, it slowly builds and builds, and builds ... into this monstrosity of a beast barreling down the slope out of control.

Lack of organization in your home or office begins very small. Maybe its just setting down the mail on the counter as you walk in the door. Perhaps you go change your clothes, start watching TV, or check on your 257 Facebook friends while the mail pile waits. Then you get hungry, make some dinner, get the kids to work on homework, check on Facebook again and get ready for bed.

Waking up in the morning you rush to get everyone out the door on time, grab your keys nearly knocking all of the mail on the floor (geez, that would have been a mess) and dash out to your car.

After a day at work, you nearly get hit by a teenager swerving while texting, you make it safely home. Grab the mail and as you walk into your home ... well, mine as well set it on the counter with the other mail. You'll get to it later. BAM! Your little organizing snow ball has just begun.

Repeat this cycle a few days and you certainly have an organizing nightmare staring at you every time you get home. Making feel overwhelmed, stressed and not the happy person you deserve to be.

My fellow professional organizer, John Trosko, who is the founder of OrganizingLA a premier Southern California organizing firm beautifully stated the value of our services:

"Some people wonder why organizers charge so much. Well, our fees are an amazingly value when you compare it to the time, effort & worry you encounter searching for something, not to mention the cost of having to replace an item you can't locate and the discouraging disappointment that comes from this circle. A professional organizer can help you get organized faster and more thorough than doing it yourself."

Being organized is an investment in yourself.

Sure you can focus and bring organization to your home, office and life all on your own. Though if you are struggling, frustrated and ready to wave a big white flag, find a local professional organizer. We are here to help you love your home and office, again. Get you out enjoying the fun in life.

What value do you put on enjoying yourself?

Woo Hoo! Get Organized for the Holidays!!

2010-11-19T08:53:00.000-05:00

Getting organized has just become a little bit easier. Organized Solutions is now accepting your favorite credit card for payments on all your organizing projects and organizing gift certificate purchases. Google Checkout is a fantastic new element and we are very excited to offer this feature to you (See the right side bar on this blog. Website access coming soon.)

As a kick-off celebration, from now until December 25th, you can save $10 on your first purchase of $60 or more. You can use this saving toward your projects before the holidays or purchasing organizing gift certificates to be used later. The choice is up to you.

If you are thinking of purchasing a gift certificate, I encourage you to contact me to make sure your gift will be happily received. Nothing worse than getting a gift like that ugly sweater your Aunt Bonnie gave you when you were 16 year old.

What was the worst gift you ever received?

Our World Could Use a Few More Charlies

2010-11-16T18:47:00.000-05:00

After helping "Charlie" with organizing his garage, he asked me to help his wife get her new apartment ready. I purchased new bedroom furniture, bedding and shower items for "Sandra," then returned to help get all her items put away.

During lunch, Charlie's wife began telling a bit about his life.

Charlie's father was a physicist who was in the US Defense Department working on weapons of mass destruction. Due to his father's responsibilities, Charlie spent his entire childhood under the care of the secret service. Bouncing from home to home, with a new last name each time he moved. WOW!

Sandra continued to tell how he ran off and joined the Marines at age 16. Ranking a Major in the US Marine Corps, Charlie fought in the Battle of Iwo Jima. She continued on with stories about their travels and hobbies.
I was in awe!!

Charlie gazed at his wife with such a loving look in his eyes. It was amazing to see a man care so very much about his wife. Not by anything he said or did, just his eyes. Stunning.

Sandra mentioned her back ached a bit. Charlie, speaking very slowly from the effects of his stroke, "Would you like me to arrange for a massage?"

In a flash, Sandra snapped back:
"Oh so now your gonna do something for me.
What the hell would I want anything from you? Your useless."

Charlie simply pursed his lips, nodded to me, his eyes broken.

"Sandra, why don't you eat your lunch so we can finish unpacking your room?" I stated in attempt to skirt what just happened.

Charlie went off for a haircut. Sandra and I went to her new room to get her items unpacked.

Charlie is an amazing man. He has told me he will always love his wife despite what her dementia is doing to her. My respect for Charlie grows with each meeting I have with him.
Hmmm ... funny, I randomly chose Charlie's nickname.
He is more than a good man. Charlie is a great man.

Sometimes what you learn from a stranger is priceless.

What have you learned from someone?

What Are You Dedicating Your Breaths to Today?

2010-11-11T08:29:00.000-05:00

This clip is just too powerful to not be shared.
Please take the 2 minutes to watch.
Organizing can wait another day:

"If you feel you have something to give. If you feel that your particular talent is worth developing, is worth caring for? Then there is nothing you can't achieve." ~Kevin Spacey

Thank you Kevin Spacey for your gentle reminder.

What are you achieving today?

Organizing Your Sock Drawer with Rocket Organizing

2010-11-03T18:53:00.001-05:00

Rocket Organizing is a new venture of Organized Solutions and a sister to this blog.

The purpose is to have short fun organizing videos, Q&A interviews, sassy shenanigans and geez, who knows what else. This is the first complete organizing video on organizing your sock drawer.

We believe Rocket Organizing will lead ultimately to a TV network picking up the program and adding some sassy, sexiness to the organizing world.

.... think of the trifecta of Rachel Ray, Ellen Degeneres and Lucille Ball.

Yes, we will have action figures.

Are you ready for some reality in the organizing world that YOU can relate to?

Send in the Organizing Cavalry

2010-10-28T08:01:00.001-05:00

One of our biggest battle as professional organizers is not stacks of papers, piles of toys, jammed closets with clothing, wall of boxes in the basement or linen closets tumbling with sheets. That's just stuff.

Husbands.
[disclaimer: True, there are many great, wonderful, supportive, loving, dudes out there]
You are embarrassed and frustrated with your home and know that help is out there. And you need and want it. At a moment, you take a giant step to contact a professional organizer.

After chatting with your professional organizer, you have a sense that the Cavalry is on its way.

Hope and relief that soon your home will feel special.

[enter your husband] He says, "No, to the project."

- If it is a money issue, completely understandable. You definitely should not overextend yourself when it comes to cash. Use the internet to find free tips.

- If it is a control issue, that is something for you to seek help.
(Been there, done that myself. Be strong)

- Perhaps your husband is embarrassed himself for the appearance of your home. Find a quiet moment to talk together about how you will both feel better with completing your organizing project.

Professional organizers are not judgemental. Our purpose is to help you love your home. We will take the time to discuss each of your goals and expectations. Getting your husband to understand the project may be all that is needed to get the supportive green light.

If all else fails, ask for an organizing project for your next holiday gift, birthday present or other special occasion. Most professional organizers offer gift certificates.

When there is a will, there is a way. And when your husband sees how great your home can be, perhaps he'll want to get his stuff organized, too!

What battle are you winning?

Get Organized and Breathe Again

2010-10-25T07:33:00.000-05:00

Maggie wanted to get organize to regain her own space again in her home which she had seem to lose to her children and grandchildren.

As I walked through Maggie's home, we entered her bedroom. She became visibly upset. This is where we needed to start. She was upset, nervous and felt overwhelmed. Though as we continued to chat about a plan to get her bedroom organized, she had thanked me and told me she felt like there was hope ... and she began to feel better!

This is how Maggie's bedroom looked when we started.
We sorted out her dresser drawers and cleared the piles.

In the end, we had a large bag for the trash and several bags and boxes for donation.

"I can Breathe!"

We were also able to get Maggie's closet cleaned up in our 4 hours of time together, too.
Clients like Maggie remind me why I love my job.

Helping people feel better about their home is fantastic!

What client has reminded you why you do what you do?

Everyone Loves Big Red Bows

2010-10-12T10:11:00.001-05:00

Big red bows are the best. Period.

If you want to set the stage for happiness,
it might be as simple as a big red bow.

As a professional organizer, my goal is to help you love your space again. Whether it is organizing your home, office, garage, basement or junk drawer, my hope is for you to feel better about yourself because you deserve it!

Starting today ... daah da da dah ...

Organized Solutions can arrive at your home with a big red bow on the car. People have purchased gift certificates for friends, family & loved ones and I just haven't felt like we have done anything special to acknowledge or signify this gift.

But hey, I'll bust out the red bow for any occasion that you might feel the need. Heck, just even holding the big red bow makes you feel all tingly inside.

What little thing makes you feel special?

Organizing Chaos ... Oh, Yeah Baby!!

2010-10-11T13:22:00.000-05:00

"Clouds are not spheres, mountains are not cones, coastlines are not circles, and bark is not smooth, nor does lightning travel in a straight line ... Nature exhibits not simply a higher degree but an altogether different level of complexity". Benoit Mandelbrot

The Mandelbrot Set is infinitely complex though generated from a simple equation involving complex numbers.
(OK, how many are completely lost? Please bear with this Rocket Scientist)

Fractal geometry = rough, fragmented, complex geometric shapes
Complex numbers = meet me at Panera's and I'll explain
Simple equation = Z = Z^2 + C (This explanation may require beers)

ANYWAY....What does this have to do with getting organized?!?

If you look around you there may appear to be chaos, where likely there is order. When working with clients, I notice that usually they know where things are. They have a system or method to their madness. It is when control is lost, their feelings begin to turn negative toward themselves, then I am asked to step in and help.

Chaos exists in Nature and Math, which gives us clouds, lighting bolts and really cool images. These are all beautiful results from chaos.
Chaos is good. Really GOOD!

Without chaos, life would be boring.

Look around you at the chaos in your life. Is there order to it?
Appreciate the beauty of chaos and have fun.
If you are struggling, then get a grip, take charge
and bring in some order.

Give us an example of good chaos.