Organizing With Love

Tip #1 Not such a good idea

2012-01-27T14:45:00.000-06:00

Putting in long hours and working very hard as a way of life has its merits, of course, but there is a problem: it's also a certain road to burnout. Playing hard, in the form of burning the candle at both ends is also..... a certain road to burnout. And the problem with sleeping fast...well, you get the picture.

Unless you want to come crashing to a halt in all areas of your life, work hard, play hard, sleep fast isn’t the road to a productive and rewarding life. In fact, the science says your work deteriorates when you don't get perspective and rest. Evidence also indicates over work contributes to diabetes, cardiovascular problems, immune system weakening and obesity. And as for sleep, there is very strong support that sleep deprivation causes poor judgment, degraded memory, and on the job performance issues.

Until next time...

Work Hard, Play Hard

2012-01-25T12:50:00.002-06:00

Work hard, play hard, sleep fast?

It's a phrase that has been a mantra for college students, an excuse for overwork in corporate culture, and even a song topic in country singer Gretchen Wilson's 2009 ditty Work hard, play harder. During tough economic times everyone seems to be working harder to pick up the financial slack and the stress of financial challenges often results in playing harder, with little time left for rest.

Stay tuned for tips on working smarter and not harder

Until next time...

Tips to start your work -life balance plan Tip #5

2012-01-23T13:49:00.001-06:00

Tip #5

Delegate it: You can delegate to team members at the office, to your older children and your spouse, or to virtual assistants if you work at home. An "I have to do it all myself" mindset will ensure just that, with the added issue of self induced stress and no life outside of work.

Lastly, even if you love your work as many do, it's critical to unplug and make time for your personal growth and down time so that you can gain and give your business life the creativity and fresh energy needed to move forward.

Until next time...

Tips to start your work -life balance plan tip #4

2012-01-20T13:42:00.001-06:00

Tip # 4
Ask yourself: What is the worst that can happen if I don't finish this work now? (Hint...unless you are a real slacker, it's doubtful there is anything that can't wait a little while longer.) Who will be most adversely effected if I work late every night? (Hint... you, for one, but also partner or children at home). Why am I sacrificing a personal life for a work life? (Hint...maybe you are zoning out from real life issues through your work).

Until next time...

Tips to start your work -life balance plan Tip #3

2012-01-18T13:14:00.002-06:00

Tip # 3

Be flexible: Sometimes it pays to work longer or less - when there's a special project, a pending deadline, or when your child is playing in a soccer tournament. Use your judgment when you are making decisions to temporarily move those boundaries, but remember the move IS temporary.

Until next time...

How much space do you really need?

2012-01-16T09:56:00.001-06:00

Small Space Organizing by Kathryn Bechen is a must read. Kathryn has a wonderful sense of humor as she provides unique tips and solutions for organizing and decorating small spaces; its as if she is in your home working side by side with you guiding you each step of the way. Her tips are simple and easy on the wallet. I almost want to live in a small space just to see how I can organize it. But seriously, if you find yourself short on inspiration don't worry Kathryn will guide you through every nook and small space imaginable. Each chapter comes with a resource list and a note section. What better way to keep track of your progress?

My favorite tips I will personally utilize are on pages 104 and 106, Kathryn talks about love notes she writes for her husband on index cards. How cute is that? Imagine being creative, loving and organized!! Allowing the family to take responsible by doing simple clean up tips is an easy way to get the family involved.

I highly recommend Small Space Organizing as a resource in your library.

Until next time...

Tell it like it is Tip #2

2012-01-13T08:42:00.002-06:00

Tip #2

Tell it like it is: Boundary setting is critical to your plan for a quality work and home life. Have a candid conversation with your manager and team about your boundaries. Negotiate what will work for you and your business or organization. Be open to team member's communication on the same topic. If a spouse and children are in the picture, be sure to communicate your boundaries there as well. Here's the hard part: hold those boundaries, but....

Until next time...

Tips to start your work -life balance plan

2012-01-11T13:06:00.002-06:00

Tip #1

You can use these tips to plan an better split between professional and personal lives and ensure you give your best at home and on the job! Try planning a month at a time using these ideas to get started:

1.) Start with small steps: Can you resist the temptation to check your business emails when you are away from the workplace? Try it for an hour to start and then increase by 15 minutes for several days. This is a tough assignment for most - to make it easier, maintain separate home/work phone and email accounts. If you work from home, it helps to have a designated work place that you can walk away from at scheduled times.

Until next time...

Start 2012 with a Work-Life Productivity Plan that Includes "Unplugged"

2012-01-09T13:04:00.000-06:00

Connected day and night via laptops, cell phones, iPads and exponentially increasing technology, it's tough to draw lines between personal and professional lives so that both get the attention they need. Managers expect employees to be continuously available, employees call their boss at home with problems, and entrepreneurs who work at home face extra challenges when it comes to work-life balance.

Creativity and productivity enhancement soar when you have a respite from work in whatever form you take it. Yet by checking business e-mail at home, taking work-related calls during vacation, or doing professional projects on the laptop during supposed down time, the opportunity for re-energizing is lost.

Stay tuned for tips to start your work - life balance plan.

Until next time...

Guilty Pleasures

2012-01-05T12:11:00.000-06:00

My colleague, Lorie Marrero, founder of The Clutter Diet created a concept of “helping people with clutter the way the diet industry does.” Clutter and food are related and perhaps first cousins. I’ve been eyeing the cinnamon rolls in the pantry for two days, even as I pass the pantry I can hear “Paris... Paris, come here, you know you want me.” I figure my will power is stronger so I continue to walk pass them-although I will admit I really WANT one. I think about my mid section and reality sets in. Yep, I am stronger than I think. “Not today, Mr. Cinnamon Roll.”

Day two is here and again they are calling me. This time I actually make it to the living room before I turn around and what do you know… Mr. Cinnamon Roll has won. It’s been ten minutes and I can actually admit I truly enjoyed eating the cinnamon roll, but not so sure if my tummy agrees. I’m not feeling so good-all this time I was certain I would be on cloud 9 after eating that delicious, glazed top, sugar loaded ‘thingy.’

In regards to clutter it’s the same concept, you have a little but you really don’t mind because it’s not bothering you. Then you start to collect more of it-now don’t get me wrong it feels ‘good’ to be able to purchase ‘stuff’ (it felt good to sink my teeth into that cinnamon roll) but afterwards are we really accomplishing anything? We start feeling bad about all the stuff we have accumulated and we find ourselves back to square one. I’ve thrown those honey buns in the trash. I realize I am stronger and so are you. Look around your environment and see what you can release to the Universe. Someone else is waiting for that outfit, those china dishes that have collected dust…you get the point.

Until next time…

Holiday Planning Now Tip #4

2012-01-03T05:34:00.005-06:00

Happy New Year

Our Holiday Planning Now Tip continues...When you are packing everything up each year, do you have a bunch of ornaments or decor you are no longer using or no longer like that keeps getting shuffled around? Time to take a hard look and donate some holiday items - keep your bins full of only the things you actually USE each year. By the same token, if you have items you love at the holidays, USE them next time. Extra ornaments that don't go on the tree? String them up over your door or put them in a glass bowl as a centerpiece.

Until next time...

Holiday Planning Now Tip #3

2011-12-30T05:17:00.003-06:00

Start a word file or a binder for Holiday ideas and thoughts. You can categorize by gift ideas, decorating ideas, menu recipes, fun things to do, and so on. Then start filling it up now as ideas come your way. If Uncle Bill mentions something during the year he needs or likes, jot it down and you have a gift list in the making. The October issue of your favorite magazine has some advance holiday recipes, pull them out and put them in your binder. You are making yourself a how-to book to help avoid holiday stress.

Until next time...

Holiday Planning Now Tip #2

2011-12-28T05:15:00.002-06:00

Purchase your Season's Greetings cards now while you will get a great deal on them and then put your return address labels on all the envelopes. One less step when you are ready to write your cards next time! By the way, this is a great idea for greeting cards in general, such as birthdays, anniversaries and all the rest.

Until next time...

Holiday Planning Now

2011-12-26T05:14:00.003-06:00

The Holidays are over and you pack up all your decor and paraphanelia , stow it somewhere and forget about it all till next year, with a sigh of relief. The next Holiday season is a LONG way off. Not! Before you know it fall arrives and it starts all over again. You can plan now to make your life easier with less scramble. I've got several tips to help you do this -here's one and watch my blog for more over the next couple of weeks!

Holiday Planning Now? Tip #1: When you are packing away this year's holiday 'stuff', pack like things with like and LABEL THE BOXES so getting things out next time is a breeze. You'll be able to grab the outdoor decor when you are ready for it easily.

Until next time...

Holiday Gift Certificates

2011-12-21T10:01:00.002-06:00

Go gift certificates! I am all for the personal gift, but as an organizer I will readily admit that there are many gifts I receive, with wonderful and appreciated good thoughts from the giver (I thank you all) that I just can't use. Maybe you know what I mean. But gift certificates mean you can use them to get something you would truly like, hence eliminating the continuing contributions to .... clutter.

Until next time...

Holiday Attire

2011-12-19T09:59:00.001-06:00

I don't have anything to wear! If that is you talking on the night of your first holiday party, time to try planning your wardrobe for holiday events in advance. Sometimes we are so intent on gifts for everyone else, we forget about ourselves.... Make a list of the events you plan to attend and check out your wardrobe in advance so you can look your shimmery, shiny, holiday best.

Until next time...

Gift Wrapping

2011-12-16T09:58:00.003-06:00

Take stock! Do you find yourself ready to do your wrapping with five packages of tissue, ten rolls of wrapping paper and no ribbon? Out of tape? Do a little inventory in advance of your first holiday gift shopping trip and stock up on just what you need. Better yet, do an inventory right after the holiday and stock up while everything is on super sale!

Until next time...

Ready to checkout

2011-12-14T09:57:00.002-06:00

Love those checkout lines around the holidays? Me neither, so try scheduling your gift shopping on a Monday - malls and big stores area usually open then, and MUCH less crowded than other nights and weekends. Or, do the on-line shopping trick: Take your list, sit down at the computer and start ordering - avoid the lines all together!

Until next time...

Holiday decorations continues

2011-12-12T09:56:00.001-06:00

Try a tree UN-decorating party! Yep, dare to be different and have an after holiday party where your friends or family help you take down the ornaments, wrap them and pack them up. You can still serve eggnog and ask your friends to bring over leftovers for a pot luck dinner while you are at it. Ask people to tell a story about their best holiday ever, or maybe their worst!

Until next time...

Holiday decorations

2011-12-09T09:55:00.002-06:00

Sort through your holiday decorations and get rid of those things you really don't like (that knitted toilet seat cover your aunt sent a while back), that are broken (those strings of lights that aren't working), or that are soiled (that faded tree skirt with stains). Even holiday decor can use a little freshening up once in a while.

Until next time...

Holiday planning

2011-12-07T09:54:00.001-06:00

Here's a great link to find super Christmas planning printable pages for free: http://christmas.organizedhome.com/
Check it out, there are over 42 printable pages to help you stay organized for the holidays! Holiday Budget, Master Gift List, and Black Friday Holiday Sales Planner are just a few of the truly helpful planning tools you can find on this site!

Until next time...

Holiday peace continues...

2011-12-05T09:53:00.004-06:00

Overwhelmed in tissue, paper and ribbon? Stuck staying up wrapping presents late at night? Try wrapping your gifts as soon as you return from shopping instead of waiting until the day of the party, event or holiday for which you need those gifts. You can do this by cutting your shopping trip a little short and having a wrapping station so you don't have to keep putting your wrapping supplies away.

Until next time...

Holiday peace...

2011-12-02T09:51:00.001-06:00

Do you find yourself pulling out last year's holiday decorations wondering where in the world you put it up or out last year? Loved the way your house looked last year for the holidays but can't quite get it right like that again? Save some time by taking photos of this year's decor placement and placing the photos in the storage boxes for next year!

Until next time...

Holiday cards...

2011-11-30T09:46:00.005-06:00

1. Holiday cards are NOT passé! But many of us would admit the cards are sometime the first to go during holiday overwhelm times. There are some options, though, that help relieve the stress, make it more fun to send cards and cut the time we spend on them! Some are finding virtual cards are just as good as paper. I've got mixed feelings on that, but that's another post..... Try these quick ideas to make holiday card prep easier:

• Keep an online address list in a word document in a label format, then you can print the labels for your cards every year. Put the personal message in the card.

• Have a family card party - put partner and children to work signing cards and writing messages!

• Instead of a holiday card, send a New Year's card. It's peaceful to sit down after the holiday rush and write meaningful notes to those you care about.

• Abbreviate your card list...are you still sending cards out of obligation to people you haven't seen or spoken to in years and don't plan to see or talk to ever .... ever? Cut!

Until next time...

Greeting cards made easy, part 2

2011-11-28T06:09:00.001-06:00

Here are some more greeting card ideas to make your life easier and help you avoid sending belated cards.

• Another approach I have become hooked on: www.sendoutcards.com/parislove This is so efficient if you have a business, because you can send out cards for a small fee to your contacts on birthdays, for holidays, etc.... automatically! There's a large selection and you write the inside message if you want.

• Every three months, spend a little time picking out all the cards you will need for that time period. Write your message and address the card, put the date you want to send it on the inside flap then order by date. Voila, all you have to do is seal and send accordingly. No more scrambling at the last minute or special trips just for a greeting card.

• Keep files of cards by category: birthdays, kids birthdays, graduations, new babies, anniversaries, thank you, religious holidays and events, get well, congratulations, etc... Then whenever you see a card or cards you like, pick them up and put them in your file. Now you have cards for every occasion ready at hand!

Until next time...

Greeting cards made easy, part one....

2011-11-25T06:08:00.001-06:00

It's a new world when it comes to greeting cards. Etiquette writers put forth their opinion on whether we should send e-cards or paper cards. Paper cards come in video and audio options along with all the standards. Do we send a thank you card to close family members or call them? How do we keep up all of the cards and important dates, anyway? I've got three quick tips that might help you keep your greeting card process in order and save you time! Watch next time for three more quick greeting card tips.

• Ask yourself if you would rather receive a greeting card in the mail or online. Use your own response as a way to gauge what you should do for others.

• Trite expressions have a basis in truth. Case in point: "It's the thought that counts." Truly, you don't have to spend $5 on an audio card for each person on your list. If you are sending paper cards, then pick one that is as appropriate as you can and then write a note in it to personalize it.

• There are tons of online e-card applications, so look for ones you like. I like www.sendoutcards.com/parislove. Try www.americangreetings.com, www.hallmark.com and www.bluemontain.com for free e-cards, and take a look at www.jibjab.com if you like to send those humorous messages.

Until next time...

Laundry room need a good reorg?

2011-11-23T06:06:00.001-06:00

Just 'cause it's the laundry room doesn't mean it's automatically clean and neat, but here are some tips to help you get a handle on the laundry AND the place you do the laundry:

• Keep a jar in your laundry room to place loose buttons and change.. and the rule is finders keepers!

• Use a bin to keep all your stain removal products -- easy to find and sort through.

• Those single sock orphans? Keep a separate little basket or bin for them and sort through periodically for the twins...

• Have a stain removal list or chart handy - if you have the wall space, hang it in your laundry area!

Until next time...

Where to put the magazines?

2011-11-21T06:05:00.001-06:00

Yes, there's the old fashioned magazine rack, but try these alternatives to add pizazz to wherever you keep your reading material:

• A colored tote or two works great - you can move them out of the way when you need to or when visitors are coming by. And you can choose a great accent color for your room!

• Baskets - there are tons to choose from and you can get a color and style to match your decor. Adds texture, too!

• Stack your magazines neatly on a bookshelf. Opens up floor space and keeps things neat and tidy - uh-oh, neat and tidy sounds like something my mom would say - Thanks Mom!

Until next time...

Step it up

2011-11-18T06:05:00.001-06:00

A friend of mine recently fell down the last three steps in her home and broke her foot - all because of the "stuff" at the bottom of the stairs awaiting transport upwards. Try placing a pretty basket or bin at the bottom of your steps (there are even baskets designed for just this purpose) and then use it to toss in all those things that need to go upstairs. It's safer, looks a whole lot better and is efficient.

Until next time...

Electronic book readers are great,

2011-11-16T06:04:00.003-06:00

...but I still love me my books, real ones, with bindings and pages and covers. But a lot of books can turn into a messy looking bookcase. Here are some great options to give the bookcase a more organized and attractive look:

• Cover it (I admit this goes against my organizing personality, but sometimes you just have to do it) - I had two doors made for my dresser high book case and it just totally neatened up my room!

• Organize your books by size or color so that it the bookcase appears more pulled together and attractive. Put some books on their side and some straight up for a little visual variety. I'm not a big fan of placing the binded side in to show only pages - how in the world are you supposed to find the book you are looking for?

Until next time...

Lovin' those clouds...

2011-11-14T06:03:00.001-06:00

Just uploaded all my photos to the cloud. Big sigh of relief - now I don' t have to worry about losing my treasured pictures because of computer problem or crash. There are lots of options, and one of the free ones is Picasa, Google's service. Takes a while to upload if you have lots of photos, but great benefits - I just send friends and family a password and they can view photos so I don't have to email them. Saves computer space, keeps my photos organized and no need to print them out!

Until next time...

Drowning in a sea of paper?

2011-11-11T06:01:00.002-06:00

If you're online you find all kinds of interesting things to read, like recipes, how to de-skunk your dog (I just had to do it, so it is fresh in my mind), books you want to order, items you want to read but not right now. You press the print button, and eventually you end up with stacks of paper to file or do SOMETHING with. But check this out: instapaper.com is a cool place where you can keep all these online reading materials so you can go back to them later. You can archive them as well, and best of all, no ads or distracting coding.

Until next time...

Ever go looking for a receipt to prove purchase?

2011-11-09T06:00:00.003-06:00

Have a pile of receipts or are they scattered through the house. I know from experience it is always the receipt I toss that I need later..... Try getting an accordian file (about five or six pockets) from an office supply store, and then label each pocket based on how you want to organize your receipts. You might have categories such as: credit card, food and dining, kid's clothes, home maintenance, gifts and so on. File accordingly and now your life is easier for sure!

Until next time...

Trying to organize in small spaces?

2011-11-07T05:59:00.001-06:00

Get creative! Here are some starter ideas to get your creativity up and running:

Go for building shelving units upward and invest in a small stool for reaching. This works in any small room and utilizes wall space most effectively!

Almost all your furniture in small spaces can double for storage or other uses. A pull out sofa for hosting a guest, ottomans that are a coffee table and open for storage, armoire that can house clothing below and tv inside....

Make sure any side table you are placing in living or sleeping spaces have at least one (preferably more) drawers for extra storage.

Small spaces can be super cozy if they are organized and de-cluttered!

Until next time...

Taking Charge

2011-11-04T05:58:00.001-05:00

What if you were in charge of your life? I talk a lot about organizing for home, school, kids, travel, family, closets, yard sales and offices along with anything else under the sun a person can put in order. But there is a bigger picture and it is about organizing your life by taking charge of it! These few thoughts below are things we already know, but it's always good to have a reminder booster shot once in a while:

• Without apology, take control of your time and your priorities.

• Every day, jot down the top three things YOU want to accomplish (not the things you do for everyone else, but for what you want to do for you, like exercise or meditate, or read.

• Use the word 'no' and mean it.

• Do one thing at a time!

• Follow YOUR path. True, you might have to take a some side roads here and there, but always return to the path you want and keep going, even when it gets tough.

That's my quota on philosophizing for today. I am off to take a walk on my path!

Until next time...

Garage Sale 101, Step 5

2011-11-02T05:57:00.001-05:00

End of Sale - clean it up! Divide what has not been sold into three piles: toss, give to charity, save for another sale. Then make your run to your charity choice, toss the trash into your garbage bin, and store the remainder for your next sale. Take down the signs you put up around the neighborhood and sale area. Get your basket of supplies back together and put it in your garage for your next sale. And now for the best part: Count up your money, minus out what you started with and sit back and enjoy your new found fleeting wealth!

Until next time...

Garage Sale 101, Step 4

2011-10-31T05:56:00.001-05:00

Day of Sale - get up early, because the early birds will be waiting an hour before your sale is scheduled to start. Don't let anyone in until you are set up. Set-up likes with likes, ie... all the clothing in one area, preferable on a hanging rack) and all the house wares in another. Use a belt with pockets to take bills and change (be sure to count what you start with so you can tell how much money you actually make at your garage sale!). Make sure you have pricing signs with your color codes scattered around the sale. You can't do it all (take money, bargain, wrap things up to go, and keep an eye on everything, so make sure you have someone to help!

Until next time...

Garage Sale 101, Step 3

2011-10-28T05:54:00.002-05:00

Be prepared: make sure you have plenty of change in coins and $1 bills for your sale. Save up any kinds of bags and packing material you will need to give the buyers with their purchased items. Check with your township to see if you need a permit. Collect card tables, folding long tables, cartons, bins and anything else you can use to display your items OFF the ground. Make signs and post them at the ends of your road and wherever else might help buyers find your home. Get a basket ready with sale day supplies like tape, extra price stickers, measuring tape, scissors, markers, twine.

Until next time...

Garage Sale 101, Step 2

2011-10-26T05:54:00.001-05:00

Pricing: after you have gathered all your sale items into one place (the garage or other staging area of your choice), time to mark the prices. This is critical, as most of the people coming to your sale will absolutely want to know prices (think about it, how would you like to go to any sale and have to guess how much something is or ask someone everytime you wanted to know the price?). Pricing is easy if you pick up colored circular stickers from your office supply store, then make each sticker represent a price: red = .25, green = 1.00, yellow = 2.50, blue = 5.00, and so on. Use white stickers for the higher priced items.

Until next time...

Here's Garage Sale 101 Step 1

2011-10-24T05:53:00.001-05:00

Plan Ahead: pick your weekend for your sale. This can be a Friday and Saturday or Saturday and Sunday depending on your geographical area. Then mark your calendar and don't make any other social engagements for that weekend of the week before - you will need this time to prepare, set up and operate the sale. Place your ad, solicit friends and neighbors to participate and/or help and place your classified ad. You're off and running! Watch my blog for more steps to make money from your garage sale!

Until next time...

Garage Sale 101

2011-10-21T05:52:00.001-05:00

Here's one way to do a garage or yard sale: gather all your unwanted things on the front lawn, put up a sign that says 'for sale' and voila, you are done! That is, if you don't plan on making any money. If you'd like to pick up a few bucks from your garage or yard sale, I have a five step process to make the whole deal easier, organized and financially lucrative.

Until next time...

Dear Paris...

2011-10-19T12:51:00.001-05:00

Dear Paris, My spouse throws his (her) stuff all over the house willy-nilly and drives me crazy. Any ideas on how to change this behavior? In need and lost in clutter

Dear In need and lost in clutter, Not quite sure what willy-nilly actually means in this case, but I will give my response my best shot. Remember, I am not a psychologist or marriage counselor. Here are a few ideas:

Put a basket in every room in the house and ask your spouse to please use them.

Have a talk with your spouse about how this is bothering you and come to a solution together.

Surrender and just pick up everything and put it in it's place.

Give up and let things pile up and hope your spouse will recognize this is not working out.

If all else fails, every day walk through your home, pick up all the spouse stuff and put everything into one big bin. Leave it there. Seriously. Keep doing it even if the bin spills over with stuff. When your spouse wants to know where something is, tell him (her) to check the bin. When the bin becomes unmanageable, throw everything out and start over.

I told you I wasn't a marriage counselor, so that last idea might be a little extreme.

Good luck!

Paris

Until next time...

Conquer E-mail Overflow Tip #7

2011-10-17T05:48:00.001-05:00

Everyday, when you open your email, go down the list and mark any email that is a joke, from someone you don't know, or an ad, and delete them all at once. You have just eliminated two thirds or more of the emails in your bin, and now getting through your mail looks a whole lot easier. Next, tag and file any email that is informational and does not require attention today. Then respond to any email that is about scheduling, put the time and date in your schedule, and delete. You should now have about 5% of your total remaining, the ones that truly need handling today.

Until next time...

Conquer E-mail Overflow Tip #6

2011-10-14T05:47:00.002-05:00

Avoid printing unless you absolutely have to! Save a tree! Save your ink! Very little of what we see in our e-mail actually needs to be printed, although there are some exceptions for agreements that require signatures (even these are being bypassed by electronic signature technology). So don't print it! It's human nature to want to hold it in our hands, but with today's e-mail filing systems, printing almost everything out is a waste of time, paper and your energy, not to mention what the heck will you do with it except re-file it your cabinet?

Until next time...

Conquer E-mail Overflow Tip #5

2011-10-12T08:45:00.002-05:00

Just like a filing cabinet with various colored hanging files and tabs, you can create folders for any subject you want and then color code your folders so that you can easily identify what you are looking for. Use colors to code priorities such as Immediate, Tomorrow, Maybe Someday; or use them to code your files so that you can find all those notes from Mom easily. You have to admit, this beats paper anyday. And the good news is that with large email hosting companies who have multiple back up and recover systems in place, your are much less likely to lose your data!

Until next time...

Conquer E-mail Overflow Tip #4

2011-10-10T08:44:00.003-05:00

Use those filters (the best invention EVER!). Most e-mail providers now also provide you with a method to actually filter your e-mails AS THEY COME INTO your e-mail. Yep, filters, often referred to as rules, can save you a lot of time and effort. Here's how it works. Find the "create a filter" link on your e-mail page and click. Follow the instructions. Yeah, I know, it's EASY! For instance, if you get a lot of e-mails from one business that you'd like to look over in one pass later, filter all the e-mails from that source into their own file with the filtering process. Then they bypass your in-bin all together. You are gonna love this feature!

Until next time...

Conquer E-mail Overflow Tip # 3

2011-10-07T09:43:00.002-05:00

Take Action! Deal with the immediate action e-mails for scheduling, quick responses and so on right away, then delete the message after you have marked your calendar or to do list. If it's something you have to do in the future, create a Pending tag or file and move the e-mail to it. Just don't forget you have a Pending file - remember to check it at least once daily. Leave in your in-bin only items that still need action very soon, and star or otherwise mark your to-do's if you have to come back to them - otherwise they will get lost in the shuffle.

Until next time...

Conquer E-mail Overflow Tip #2

2011-10-05T08:42:00.002-05:00

If you are an e-mail hoarder, there are ways to get your in bin more orderly. Most e-mail hosts now have the option for you to file or archive your e-mails. This means you are actually able to save any e-mails you want to keep AND you can tag and file them so they are easy to find. Tag/file names like on-line services, receipts, personal correspondence, and so on can help you move e-mails you want to save but that don't require action. One caveat: some providers have a limit on how much e-mail space you are allotted, so don't be saving those sales and promotional ads. Try the delete key for those buggers.

Until next time...

Conquer E-mail Overflow Tip#1

2011-10-03T08:41:00.002-05:00

You don't have to get all those sales, promotions and other unwanted email flowing into your in-bin. You receive them because you are on lists, and you have the right to be removed from any list you no longer want to be on. Search for the "unsubscribe" link , usually at the bottom of the email and usually in very small print because the sender does not really want you to unsubscribe. After you click on the unsubscribe link, follow the directions and you will be removed from the list. It's the only way to stop e-mails from a particular vendor, retailer or service business once they start. You can avoid the emails altogether in some cases - when you buy something via the internet, most vendors give you the option of not receiving their promotional emails, but you have to find the box and click it. Definitely worth it. You will eliminate many of your unwanted emails by "opting out" in this way. P.S. Don't accidentally unsubscribe from my e-mails because lots more tips to share!

Until next time...

E-mail overflowing?

2011-09-30T08:40:00.003-05:00

My friend told me he had over 1,500 emails in his in bin. My suggestion: delete them all and start over. I read recently that only 6-10 of the emails we receive every day are 'legitimate' - such as info we asked for, scheduling , etc... The rest are ads, unsolicited information and spam. Our email in-bins are a temporary holding area, just like our short term memory. We keep information in short term memory just long enough to either take action or store it...for example, remembering a phone number long enough to either call it or write it down. E-mail in bins serve a similar function. When we open our inbox, we need a "take action" or "toss it" or "save it somewhere else" mentality. In my next few postings, I'm going to help you get that in-bin organized, readable and manageable!

Until next time...

Tips to College Success

2011-09-28T08:39:00.001-05:00

Our college students don't necessarily want a lot of advice, but here's one word I would pass along: Organization works! (OK, that's two words.) Maybe you could print this posting out and slip it into your college student's packed boxes, or better yet, laminate it and ask them to post it on their wall at college.

Paris's Five Tips To College Success

Organization, Organization, Organization, Organization, Organization.

OK, I'll expand on that with a few key tips from the experts:

• 1.) Set yourself up for success by designing a schedule and sticking to it as much as possible. Freedom is a cool thing, but without any self-imposed structure for learning and study, we set ourselves up for failure.

• 2.) A calendar is a MUST! Your professors in college aren't like high school and they aren't going to remind you about due dates - it will be your responsibility to keep track of all those test, report and other due dates (plus all your social engagements!)

• 3.) When you wake up for that 8 am class, who wants to wade through stacks to find the right notebook? Color code your subjects so you can easily identify by notebook cover what subject it is. It helps to put a color code sticker on your books, too.

• 4.) Find a great place to study. It may or may not be your dorm room, depending on your roommate and hallmates. A little library nook, a lounge area that has little traffic, identify a place early on so when your room is too noisy, you have a quiet study place to go.

• 5.) Write it down. Keep a list of all your to do's, then review it each evening for what absolutely HAS to be done tomorrow. It's a great way to learn to set priorities.

Until next time...

Homework Help

2011-09-26T05:37:00.002-05:00

Help your children with their school work by checking out these terrific sites with organization tips for students and parents. The common thread in all of these sites is that organization is a key contributor to student success. I'm not surprised!!

http://www.pbs.org/parents/strugglingtolearn/supporting_tips.html

http://tutoring.sylvanlearning.com/newsletter/0403/organizek5.cfm

http://www.parentmap.com/content/view/158

http://www.fortbend.k12.tx.us/gifted/organization.cfm

Until next time...

Students need organization, too!

2011-09-23T05:37:00.003-05:00

Children need structure, we have all heard, and this is especially true for school age children from kindergarten through elementary school, as this is when your child is learning the study habits he or she will have for their entire education. Children benefit most from a single study/homework location in a quiet environment where they can organize their supplies and books. A desk organizer works great for this because you can move it from the dining room or kitchen table out of the way when not in use. By around third or fourth grade, your student should be working at their own desk out of the family flow to get best study results.

Until next time...

Teens need organization HELP!

2011-09-21T09:36:00.002-05:00

Some teens love a clean room, while others tend to thrive in clutter and floors you can hardly walk on. If your adolescent has a messy streak, try to help them out by providing the bins, baskets and other supplies they need to de clutter. Make it fun by offering to paint their room with them in a color of their choice (be flexible, you don’t have to live in there!). Just before school starts is the best time for this project. Be sure to involve your adolescent in the shopping for organizing supplies, labeling areas in the room as to where things go and general cleaning up. Sometimes your teen will want to do the job on their own – great! Be sure to give lots of positive feedback.

Until next time...

Brain game

2011-09-19T09:35:00.003-05:00

Overwhelmed? Don’t know where to start? Too many projects this fall? Too much to do before winter sets in? Time to take stock and organize your brain with this little game. Get out five sheets of paper and put them on your kitchen table or counter. Put one of these titles on each sheet: Personal, Family, Business, Next Month, Others. Then let your brain go wild! Whatever you are thinking needs to be done, find the right list and write it down. When you are finished with this exercise, take your lists and pull the top two priorities from each of them. Save the rest for later!

Until next time...

Homework space tip

2011-09-16T09:34:00.002-05:00

Designate a place in the house where homework is done, and keep a routine so children are working on homework at the same time everyday. Have a little supply tray ready with pencils, markers, pens, and other needed items so work doesn’t get interrupted for looking for supplies. Also have a basket or bin to put ongoing work in so that it doesn’t stay spread out all over your dining table.

Until next time...

Rules for young school kids

2011-09-14T09:34:00.004-05:00

1.) Hang up school bags on hooks you have provided for them.

2.) Ditto on the jackets.

3.) Boots or shoes on the boot mat you have supplied.

4.) Homework materials cleaned up when the work is complete.

5.) Lunch packs unloaded and put on the counter for you to prep for tomorrow.

6.) No dinner until this is all done (kidding, kidding J)

Until next time...

Fall into keeping clutter at bay

2011-09-12T09:33:00.003-05:00

It's one thing to get rid of clutter, but another altogether to keep your home or office clutter free. But it only takes a few minutes each day to quickly put those items on your desk, kitchen counter or dresser top where they belong. Or, you could let it build up so you have to spend a valuable weekend cleaning up. You choose!

Until next time...

Be good to your garden

2011-09-09T09:32:00.003-05:00

September is the best time to transplant, cut back bushes, pull out old vegetable plants and turn over/add compost to your garden. Weeding is a must because every weed still in your garden before cold weather sets in has a head start in the spring. If you want to put in some new perennials, this is the time, too, giving your new additions a great start rather than waiting for spring.

Until next time...

Clean 'em up

2011-09-07T09:31:00.002-05:00

Before you put those outdoor hoses away, do a cleanup job on outdoor furniture, lawn mowers, bicycles, and other summer stuff you will be stowing in the garage or elsewhere for the winter. Pick a weekend day, bring everything to be hosed off to the driveway and go at it!

Until next time...

Motto: Be prepared

2011-09-05T09:30:00.002-05:00

Time to do a switch out on the summer vs. fall supplies and outerwear in your mudroom, entryway or hall closet. Get out the fall jackets, rainwear and boots -- and put away the hoodies, pool towels, and flip flops. While you are at it, pick up some organizing bins to get ready for the colder weather – you can use these for gloves, hats, and scarves. A good indoor outdoor mat works great as a place for wet or dirty boots. Wall hooks for hanging sports equipment, school bags, and fabric grocery bags help keep order in the house!

Until next time...

Wear, wore, worn...

2011-09-02T09:29:00.002-05:00

Time to clean out the summer clothes and bring out the colder weather gear. Use this as a time to separate your clothing by what you will wear next year, what you never wore this year, what you wore and didn’t like, and just plain worn out. Then donate your never worn’s and didn’t likes, toss the worn outs and pack or stow away the items you are keeping. Doing this will help you to have just what you want next spring without having to try to remember what worked and what didn’t.

Until next time...

School days, school days...

2011-08-31T09:28:00.002-05:00

Keep your children’s or grandchildren’s school supplies, art and other paraphernalia organized by adding hanging pockets in a convenient place near their work area. Label the pockets with each child’s name (let them make the label) and now you have a place for those notes from teachers, field trip permission slips and all the rest! You can pick up inexpensive sturdy plastic wall pockets from any office supply store.

Until next time...

A little note for natural organizers

2011-08-29T09:25:00.003-05:00

Spread your wealth and help a friend or family member with an organization task. Your spouse's office looks like that messy kid from Peanuts lives there? Your daughter's room looks like, well, your daughter's room? Your friend's closet has things growing in there? Kindly, lovingly, and with tact, offer to help. Not everyone is as good an organizer as you and you need to share your skills!

Until next time...

I-don't-know-where-to-start

2011-08-26T09:24:00.003-05:00

Start by doing a little research on organization. My blog is a great place for ideas, and you can tap into magazine websites like Real Simple for more tips. Google "how to organize a closet without spending money" and you will get 179,000 hits. Surely there is a place to start in that list. Or, contact a professional organizer (wait, I am a professional organizer!) for help.

Until next time...

I-don't-know-where-to-start

2011-08-24T09:20:00.003-05:00

The answer is 'somewhere'. It is amazing how once you pick up one or two things, the process goes a little easier. It is those projects that we avoid and build up in our minds as overwhelming that actually turn out to be much easier that we believed --and very satisfying as well. So pickup something and you have started!

Until next time...

I-don't-know-where-to-start

2011-08-22T09:19:00.004-05:00

Create a "staging" area. Clear one area of the room you want to organize by just moving things out of the way. Use a small table, or stacked boxes to make yourself a surface where you can bring each item to review. Clear a nearby area so you can set up separate spaces for "keep", "give away", "toss". Having a work area like this makes the whole process ten times easier and gives you a sense of accomplishment. If there isn't room for staging in the area you are working on, create your surface and sorting space in another room.

Until next time...

Maybe Someday

2011-08-19T09:19:00.004-05:00

Keep the door to that closet, room, office or other cluttered area open. No closing the door. Every time you walk past it, grab one item and put it where it belongs. If you don't have a place for it yet, at least put it with other like items. After you walk past that area of your house several times, you will be more than motivated to mark your calendar with a date for a complete clean up.

Until next time...

Maybe Someday

2011-08-17T09:18:00.003-05:00

Close your eyes and imagine that your closet, room, office or other area is beautifully painted and decorated, with shelving, bins and baskets, things where they belong and room to move. You can find anything quickly, and you have reclaimed your space. Picturing the result can help you to move forward NOW because you want to get there.

Maybe Someday

2011-08-15T09:17:00.003-05:00

If you have something in your hands that you are tempted to throw into the junk drawer or room for a maybe someday organizing spree, challenge yourself to put that item where it belongs. If there isn't a place it belongs, make one. The key is to handle your items as they come in instead of putting it off.

Until next time...

Clutter Magnet

2011-08-12T09:17:00.004-05:00

For your existing clutter, depending on the degree, you may need professional help or the assistance of family and friends. Don't be afraid to ask for help in uncluttering your life. We do it for our bodies when we use yoga or other exercise, we do it for our minds when we use meditation or just zone out. It's OK to do it for our homes, too. My friend's helps her son and daughter-in-law organize their garage and basement every other year. Believe me, if you have organized friends or family, they will LOVE to help you organize!

Until next time...

Clutter Magnet

2011-08-10T09:16:00.003-05:00

Use the replacement rule. That is, if one thing comes into your home, one other thing must go out. So, when you are tempted to bid on that e-bay pink vase, ask yourself: What am I willing to give up in order to have this?" You may find that the pink vase is not so important to have after all.

Clutter Magnet

2011-08-08T09:14:00.005-05:00

Garage sales, auctions, department store sales, on-line products, and many other sources are the bane of clutter magnets. While some organizers might ask you to keep away from these sources and that works. But if you want to enjoy these places, by all means go, but ask yourself every single time you pick up an item: On a scale of 1-10, how much do I really NEED this item? Not want, but need. If you place your need at 5 or below, put it back and move on.

Until next time...

Stuff Solution Tips

2011-08-05T11:42:00.004-05:00

“Stuff” Solutions Tip 10:

Every year or two, we get to upgrade our cell or smart phones, which means we get a new phone (cool) but we still have the old one. What to do with it? I’ve found several options: www.cellphonesforsoldiers.com accepts used working phones and chargers and passes them along to our troops in need. Or try www.recellular.com, where you can donate the old phone – if they can recycle it to be reused, super; if not they recycle the phones and give the money earned to charities.

Until Next Time...

Stuff Solution Tips

2011-08-03T11:40:00.003-05:00

“Stuff” Solutions Tip 9:

Retired or moved out of the corporate world and wondering what to do with all those business suits in your closet? Check out www.careergear.com for donating gently used men’s suits and other business attire – men who work with career gear get interview counseling and interview clothing to help them put their best face forward…. For women, www.dressforsuccess.com is the go to place for donating business attire. Clear your closet and help someone else – pretty good deal!

Until Next Time...

Stuff Solution Tips

2011-08-01T11:39:00.003-05:00

“Stuff” Solutions Tip 8:

Finding yourself with an overabundance of towels, sheets, linens and/or blankets you don’t need? Here’s an innovative way to recycle them: find your local animal shelter (you can do this at www.pets911.com, which is always in need of materials to use for pet bedding. Help to make pets more comfortable in this way while they are waiting for their forever home.

Until Next Time...

Stuff Solution Tips

2011-07-29T11:38:00.003-05:00

“Stuff” Solutions Tip 7:

What to do with those old cameras, cell phones, computers, monitors, and other related electronic equipment you no longer need (because you got the newer version)? If you don’t have a family member or friend who might want your used electronic, check out www.ecosquid.com , a fabulous and easy to use option for recycling or selling your items. Just type in your item brand and name, select condition, check if it works or not, and you will be presented with several recycle or sell options.

Until Next Time...

Stuff Solution Tips

2011-07-27T11:37:00.004-05:00

“Stuff” Solutions Tip 6:

Have your own auction! Enlist a friend to do a little auctioneering (he or she doesn’t have to talk fast, just stand up and sell stuff and take bids), then invite your neighbors, friends, co-workers, family and family friends for a friendly auction day. Three things for sure: you will make some cash, get rid of ‘stuff’ and you will have a blast!

Until Next Time...

Stuff Solution Tips

2011-07-25T11:35:00.003-05:00

“Stuff” Solutions Tip 5:

My friend recently moved from her bigger home to a smaller one and had to downsize. She had tons of decorative items (she was into seasonal decorating), clothing, shoes, silk flowers….. what to do? She hosted a “friends and family giveaway” pot luck picnic, and invited everyone she knew to stop by and pick out some things. It was a hit, even with the children, one of whom excitedly reported to his father when returning home “All this was FREE, Dad!!”

Until Next Time...

Stuff Solution Tips

2011-07-22T11:33:00.004-05:00

“Stuff” Solutions Tip 4:

What to do with the things we can’t bear to throw away, but don’t have room for in our own home? Try www.freecycle.com – it has local chapters where you can give away things you don’t want or need, even broken washing machines! (The idea is that someone might be able to fix and use it.) Very green, very responsible way to deal with keeping the landfill levels down.

Until Next Time...

Stuff Solution Tips

2011-07-20T11:32:00.003-05:00

“Stuff” Solutions Tip 3:

Avid reader? Got a lot of books lying around that you’ve read, don’t need or don’t want? Recycle by listing your book on www.bookmooch.com – an online book exchange. Your local library will generally accept book donations – they then resell at book sales to benefit the library fund. Still another option – invest in a Kindle or similar reader that lets you download books and read them without physically having them pile up in your house or office. Another great outlet for books and DVD’s is at www.booksforsoldiers.com , a nonprofit organization that helps you send books, DVD’s and more to our US soldiers.

Until Next Time...

Stuff Solution Tips

2011-07-18T11:30:00.003-05:00

“Stuff” Solutions Tip 2:

Did you know that Goodwill has an online store? So, if you take your “stuff” to a Goodwill collection site or store near you, it might be auctioned and the proceeds go to help with the Goodwill mission: “Goodwill Industries International enhances the dignity and quality of life of individuals, families and communities by eliminating barriers to opportunity and helping people in need reach their fullest potential through the power of work.” Definitely a win-win situation.

Until Next Time...

Stuff Solution Tips

2011-07-15T11:23:00.004-05:00

“Stuff” Solution Tip 1:

If you decide to go with an online auction site like eBay to clear out some of your “stuff”, be sure to make your item stand out from the competition by taking good photos (no shadows, sharp focus, and shots from all angles) and writing an excellent but accurate description. eBayers generally like to know where the item is coming from, age, quality, and defects. Avoid be over salesy – just be honest but do promote your item too.

Until Next Time...

Summer with the kids

2011-07-13T12:02:00.004-05:00

Summer with the kids tip 6:

Cook something up. Let the little ones help you plan the weekly dinner menu, and give them a say! Then when you take them grocery shopping, they can gather the goods for the dinner they wanted. Better yet, let them do a supervised cooking of the meal. It may not be perfect, but they are learning how to plan and prep food for dinner.

Until Next Time...

Summer with the kids

2011-07-11T12:01:00.004-05:00

Summer with the kids tip 5:

Just be. In this hectic overly scheduled overly planned world, teach your children how to plan relaxation time into their schedule. Suggest they read a book, lie on the hammock, take a short walk, play quietly. They may not need naps anymore, but they still need some downtime, and you can help them learn to structure a day with just that kind of time in it.

Until Next Time...

Summer with the kids

2011-07-08T11:59:00.003-05:00

Summer with the kids tip 4:

Redecorate (and clean) the children’s rooms. Get ready, prepare for school and keep the kids busy with cleaning, updating and generally redoing their rooms. They get invested because it is their room, and you are teaching them responsibility. Give them room for creativity in their room and show them how to get and keep organized – a skill they will appreciate when they get older!

Until Next Time...

Summer with the Kids

2011-07-06T11:56:00.006-05:00

Summer with the kids tip 3:

FIELD TRIP! Who doesn’t like those words, even as adults? In the summer, though, there’s no school to be planning the trips, so you can step in and organize a few trips here and there. Try to break away from amusement parks a little and explore a kids touch museum, an aquarium, a national park near you. You might even be able to connect with another parent or two to make a group trip!

Until Next Time...

Summer with the Kids

2011-07-04T11:54:00.003-05:00

Summer with the kids tip 2:

My friend’s son took his black Darth Vader mug, filled it with flowers he and his mom had planted, and won the kindergarten blue ribbon for best flower arrangement. If you plant seeds, vegetables and flowers with your little ones, they will be delighted to watch growth throughout the summer, and you are teaching them a very green skill for the future. Let them have a say in what gets planted, and let them water, too (that’s the fun part!)

Until Next Time...

Summer with the Kids

2011-07-01T11:51:00.003-05:00

Summer with the kids tip 1:

At a loss for how to keep the children busy on those muggy or rainy summer days? What to do when they say “I’m bored?” Make a plan now, and once again, web to the rescue. Check out these sites for children’s activities ideas: www.squidoo.com, www.familyfun.go.com or just google “summer projects for kids”. Another really cool site for keeping the children busy while the learn is www.thedailygreen.com .

Until Next Time...

Party Planning Ideas

2011-06-29T11:20:00.003-05:00

Party Planning Tip #10:

Do you like themes for your parties and get-togethers? Most children love them – my friend’s daughter dressed up as Dorothy of the Wizard of Oz for her 4^th birthday, and her parents made a long roll of paper painted to look like yellow bricks! Themes can be corny or cool or fun, but here’s the thing – a theme can help you stay organized because it dictates what you are buying, serving and doing for the event. For great theme ideas, see www.party411.com, www.evite.com and www.celebrations.com .

Until Next Time...

Party Planning Ideas

2011-06-27T11:18:00.002-05:00

Party Planning Tip #9:

Don’t be scrambling at the last minute for something momentous to say at your special event, or be in the position of making an unmemorable toast or introduction. You can find great quotes and toasts at www.worldofquotes.com and www.quotegarden.com. Here’s one I like for a graduation party: “Knowing is not enough; we must apply. Willing is not enough; we must do.” (Johann Wolfgang von Goethe Quotes). Or how about this one for a baby shower: “While we try to teach our children all about life, our children teach us what life is all about.” (Kate Douglas Wiggin Quotes).

Until Next Time...

Party Planning Ideas

2011-06-24T11:16:00.002-05:00

Party Planning Tip #8:

If you love to cook, have hours and hours to spend on it and don’t mind working through your party, then make a menu that means you do all the cooking. Alternatively, ask friends to make what they are really good at, consider using readymade foods (Panera’s.com has a great casual catering menu) or hire a formal caterer. You will be amazed at how much you appreciate the less stress food alternatives. And don’t forget the do-ahead option!

Until Next Time...

Party Planning Ideas

2011-06-22T11:15:00.002-05:00

Party Planning Tip #7:

Ever end up with way too much food or way too little beverage at your party? Here’s a great little helper you can find at realsimple.com – a party – food – beverage – calculator! Punch in the amount for how many adults and the children option and voila – a list of how much ice, drink and hors d'oeuvres you’ll need. It doesn’t give you a complete menu, but it’s definitely a helper on some of the staples for your party.

Until Next Time...

Party Planning Ideas

2011-06-20T11:13:00.002-05:00

Party Planning Tip #6:

For your more casual parties like birthdays, cook outs, and such, try one of the many online invitation services such as www.evite.com – the whole process, including rsvp’s, is handled online and you can choose from a variety of designs and other options. www.purpletrail.com offers you the opportunity to design printed cards that are shipped to you, online cards and cards you can print at home as well. Invitations have never been so easy and customized!

Until Next Time...

Party Planning Ideas

2011-06-17T00:12:00.001-05:00

Party Planning Idea #5:

My mom always said no wearing white before Memorial Day and although it’s not really the norm anymore, why not make your life easier and have a huge impact by planning an all white Fourth of July picnic? Focus on textures and shades of white this holiday. Easy shopping – maximum impact!

Until Next Time...

Party Planning Ideas

2011-06-15T00:11:00.002-05:00

Party Planning Idea #4:

One of my friends has an annual “corn roast” every year. Everyone brings a picnic like dish, and there is no maintained list of what guests are bringing, so it is a true “pot luck” picnic. Some years we have more desserts than we do main dishes, and some years the other way around…..The host supplies the corn (cooked to perfection), paper products, dogs/rolls and basic beverages. The rest is up to the guests. Very little planning, fairly low cost, establishes a tradition, and, no invites necessary – everyone knows it’s the third Saturday in August!

Until Next Time...

Party Planning Ideas

2011-06-13T11:07:00.004-05:00

Party Planning Idea #3:

We’ve all seen the slides shows and videos often shown at benchmark birthdays and weddings - but you can show photos at any event by using the larger size digital frames and downloading friends’ photos, photos of the kids, or anything that makes sense for your eAsk guests to email you some photos they would like included. You can even have a little party photo contest or bragging contest on children and grandchildren. Another angle: load your frame with your scenic photos (or someone else’s) and you have an instant art show at your party!

Until Next Time...

Party Planning Ideas

2011-06-10T11:05:00.004-05:00

Party Planning Tip #2:

Use the internet for help! You can find party planning checklists, tips, ideas and more by simply googling party or event planning. When I did a search for party and event planning checklists, I turned up 1,930,000 results. While you will find services in these results, you can also find some great free checklists so you don’t have to start from scratch. For big events like weddings, see http://www.thegreatevent.com ; for smaller events, check out the checklist on http://www.realsimple.com.

Until Next Time...

Party Planning Ideas

2011-06-08T11:03:00.006-05:00

Party Planning Tip #1 :

It’s tempting, I know, to use the party as a reason to paint the walls, remodel a room or scrape off old wallpaper. If you can’t start these projects at least six weeks before the party, take a deep breath and let go….it might be better to keep peace at home and do the project after the party.

Your guests will appreciate a calm and fun host and most don’t remember the color of your walls!

Until next time...

Green Tips

2011-06-06T10:59:00.002-05:00

Green Tip #10

Junk Mail

You know the drill – when you get the mail, more than half of it is junk mail that clutters your table, desk or inbox, and requires you to sort and shred to stay organized. Here is a great way to cut down on all that junk mail: go to http://www.41pounds.org and sign up to help save trees, the climate and the environment. 41 Pounds will stop your junk mail for five years for a total of 41 bucks. The good news - one third of that goes to a charity you can choose from the organization’s list, and you save much more than that in time alone.

Until Next Time...