Purse Organization

Our purses have evolved into a status symbol over the years, and with it comes the obsession for web groups like What's In Your Purse.  I am one of the obsessed.  Just as my obsession with viewing people's homes, how they live and what they live with, I often find myself peering into my friends' bags to see what goodies they tote around with them.

I've noticed that Etsy has really exploded in the pouch industry.  Cell phone pouches, camera pouches, key pouches, pouches for glasses.  I even found a pouch to protect a notebook.  I am in love with these - such creative fabrics and fasteners.  I just love cases and coin purses, gadget protectors of any kind and makeup bags.  I think utilizing smaller accessories inside the purse is a great way to keep things clean and un-scratched. 

I have run across clients who are at a loss with purse clutter and often do not switch bags because of the stress and unorganization they encounter with transferring their daily items.  My recommendation is to keep a small basket in their closet to catch the little items like gum, pens and notebooks.  Another basket for wallet collections & yet another for more delecate items such as sunglasses, iPods and electronics.

I have heard of those purse inserts and have always thought they might be a good asset, especially for someone like me.  I tend to use those irresistable zipper pouches to divide my items, (sometimes the ones I get from certain makeup Bonus Time for example.)  But I am not sure these inserts would be practical...  attractive... or would it just get in the way, you know?  Have any of you tried a purse organizer?  Do you switch out your purses often, or do you feel overwhelmed with the contents and shy away from transferring them every time you need to switch?

Did you know that hiring a Professional Organizer doesn't have to be expensive? You can get similar benefits by doing it all Virtually! Check out my Virtual Online Organizing packages and let me help you Renew Your Space to free up time, efficiency and clarity.

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Standing Out From the Crowd

I was snooping around the internet recently for some creative ways to dress up my luggage so that it is not the same old boring black suitcase that comes out in multiples at baggage claim. I have been pretty clever at attaching flashy bows and bright pink luggage tags to make that quick identify, but they just never seem to be enough. The bag always seems to be facing the wrong way and I miss it the first time around. It is the story of my life… I have pretty good luck in airports, actually. I always find out that my luggage was one of the first to roll down the chute, but I always mistake it for someone else’s. By the time I realize it’s mine, I either have to clobber the crowd to my right or wait for its trip around that s-l-o-w ride. I think I need to just sharpen up my reflexes, {sigh}.


Well, The Container Store never ceases to amaze me with their innovative ways of getting us organized for any moment in life. Right away when I clicked on the luggage selector, I knew I would find something not only attractive, but reasonable. I am kind of loving this tasteful orange piece with the extra straps and hidden retractable handle. I will never get caught searching for my luggage again with this guy!

They also have these handy little “tube cubes” to tightly pack in your clothing and accessories for more efficient space (how awesome are these?!) I noticed this a while back, that if I pack items into individual containers or sachets, I could actually fit more into my case.

If you tend to over pack & not use the clothes you bring, my best advice when picking outfits is to leave 2/3 behind. Be practical with your colors so that you can mix and match only a few pieces into several outfits – but you already knew that!

What are some ways you’ve learned to get everything packed that you need to bring?

Do you remember paper dolls? Well, I’m kind of excited about this fun contest TCS is currently having. Meet “Road Trip Renee” ~ She is one of four Organized Travel Gals who could get you a free trip and some snappy luggage! All you have to do is vote for your favorite Travel Gal and be entered to win our Organized Traveler Getaway Giveaway! (Renee looks so relaxed in her casual cargo shorts doesn’t she?) 

I think it would be kind of fun to take one of these along on a trip to show off where you've been, but like the "flat Stanley" idea, I would much rather prefer a picture of someone I know...  I don't know.  I guess if you choose this one, you could pretend it were me :)  I really need to get out on a road trip!  Anyways - One winner will receive a complete set of luggage and clothing organizers, plus a trip for two to one of four fabulous destinations, compliments of The Container Store and Travelocity. The Organized Travel Gal with the most votes will take an adventure with the Travelocity Roaming Gnome.  CLICK HERE  to enter :) Good luck!

Want some handy tips for your next trip? Here are the Container Store’s top 10 Organized Travel Tips

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Body Clutter

Isn't it true that clearing the clutter in your home or office makes you feel uplifted and more productive?  It somehow releases great vibes and gives you time and energy to enjoy the things in life that you want to spend time on.

The same goes for your body - we have body clutter inside and out, just as we accumulate junk inside and outside of our homes.  The only difference is that we see our homes and things as tangible objects but often see our bodies as what we're stuck with.  When it comes to working out and eating right, people have become accustomed to putting off the most important thing of our lives, and letting that junk drain us of energy.

Obesity is at an all time high in America and growing at a rapid rate.  Children are growing up with technology that pins them to their couches, and the world is becoming a more toxic place to live.  We need to break this cycle and get back into the simplicity of living cleaner, healthier lives. 

I have recently stumbled on a nutritional cleanse that has helped me release 12 stubborn pounds and gave me the energy to keep going with my exercise program.  I am amazed how great I feel and watching my scale drop every week.  There are a few simple adjustments I've made to my routine and you may enjoy incorporating some of these into your own schedule:

1.  Empty out your pantry - Take out everything from top to bottom and wipe down your shelves and bins.  Look at the expiration dates and nutritional value - do you really want to keep that?  If needed, create a separate shelf for snack foods and label it for your family.  I did this for a client who was trying to eat healthier but wanted snack items for her kids, so we labeled that cupboard "Indulgences" and that way whenever she reaches for that area, she is reminded that she is giving up a good meal for an indulgence...  it worked for her!

2.  Commit to eat clean - This was something I had heard about for the past year, but I thought that buying organic food wasn't in the best interest of my pocket book.  How wrong was I when I found out that I am actually saving money because it tastes better and I am not letting fruits and vegetables go bad.  I actually planted a garden about three weeks ago full of different lettuce, herbs and small veggies which are helping out too!  Looking good huh?

3.  Drink your water - I know this is a given, but since I began cleansing, I started filling my 24 oz. water bottle 3 times a day.  I fill it right when I get out of bed, right after my workout (because when I work out, I always drink a full one) and then again before dinner.  I started putting lemon slices and mint leaves in the water just to make it interesting and I am loving it.  I think this has really contributed to losing all of that puffiness in my face and flushing out the toxins.

4.  Stick to an exercise plan - This is not the easiest for me, but I found this great website Spark People, where I have connected with local women to workout with!  They were within my range of weight loss & have been supporting me like crazy.  I even made some new friends in this big new city that I moved to :)  What I love about it is that I can track my meals and exercise so that I know exactly how many calories I need to burn throughout the week.

5.  Find a plan that is a lifestyle not a diet - I have tried everything there is to try, but my plateau just kept holding me at a weight that I did not feel good about.  I didn't really yoyo - I just kept going back to this horrifying number like a magnet.  I found a nutritional cleanse that not only dropped my weight, but it restored real nutrition to my body and helped me build healthy muscle.  I hadn't realized just how much I was depriving myself until I found it and you, too will find energy when you rid your bodies of toxicity. 

These are just a few things that have helped me in the past month, and I wanted to share this with you because I truly feel amazing!  Just as with my home, I hope to clear out all of that body clutter so that I have the energy and motivation to do the things that I enjoy.

What are some things that have helped you to lose or maintain?  Have you ever tried nutritional cleansing? 

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Blogs of Note

Over the course of the past five months, I have met some amazing ladies right here on this organizing blog and have developed friendships that I had never known would exist in the world of blogging. It doesn't seem like only five months - it definitely feels a lot longer. It's not always easy to take time out to read everybody's blogs and develop relationships along the way, but whenever I do I always learn something from these brilliant writers. And the payoff far exceeds the time needed to comment back and read up on their lives. I just grab a cup of coffee and go blog-hopping.


There have been times when I would just happen upon a blog and see my name or my business name. My heart would race, and I'd explore further to see a wonderful post about my writing or services. Wow! You honored me? It's so humbling to read the words "Thank You", or that I have really helped them out in one way or another. My blog exists merely to give words of advice, and pass along small bits of information that had helped a client (or myself) in the interim. It is truly music to my ears to find that it has helped, even in some small way.

So to those who have given me shouts and mentions; this is for you...

Wendy at Good Morning Sunshine discusses healthy living and positive things on her blog. She always has something uplifting to read, and her bright cheerful heading always brings a smile to my face. Her very generous feature Be Good To Yourself Tip of the Day featured my business on her keeping clean and organized post.

Karen over at A Peek At Karen's World blogs about daily life and adorable memes like Face it Friday and Confession Wednesdays. But perhaps what I love about her most is that she is a true LOST fan, which are the most interesting discussions of all!! ;-) She gave me this really awesome mention the other day on her blog of the week!

One of my favorite bloggers is Angie over at The Work At Home Wife. I have a lot in common with her, as I am also a work at home wife & her career as a Virtual Assistant often parallels with my Virtual Organizing. Here, she did a feature on why I decided to work for myself.

Then, there are the occasional Blog Rolls ~ This is so completely nice, and again, I just stumbled on these so if you have placed me in your blog roll, let me know & I will gladly add you to mine!

A sweet Northern NJ lady at Write Out Loud discusses her day in the life and love for writing.

CoryAnne from Housewife Bliss is always amuzing with her witty banter and shares her amazing knowledge in nesting.

Renee with Sewn With Grace has impeccable taste and a unique skill for crafting.

These people without a doubt are fabulous reads and I am so grateful to have gotten to know them through blogging. Thanks again for your very generous mentions, as I want to pay it forward! 

So I have a gift for you and your organized blogs of note :)  You can wear it if you'd like, but I have NO idea how to insert the linkage  underneith (hey - I may be organized enough to blog and webmaster, but there are just some things that I do not understand...) so enjoy!

 

If you haven't met these lovely women already, go check them out - you will be so glad to know them as well!

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Sending your summer camper off organized & in style

Do you have a little one heading off to camp this summer? There are so many exciting new products on the market right now that can get you prepared, and get them organized to have a great time! Some of my favorite recommendations are these bunk bed organizers and mesh laundry bags.

Keeping belongings in their own containers are not only a good way at making sure they don't get lost, but for keeping them clean in the long run.  Finding a nice little home for their electronic games and gadgets in these sweet zipper pouches ensures they will stay protected.

Here is an excellent check-off list from the Container Store to keep in mind before sending off your little camper for the summer:

• Begin gathering items and shopping for things you need about a month before it's time to go.

• Help your child pack for camp. Be sure to follow the guidelines provided by the camp for what to bring and what not to bring.

• Depending on the destination, you may need to pack rain gear and a light jacket.

• Leave items of value at home. Don't pack clothing you wouldn't want to get dirty.

• If the camp doesn't provide laundering service, you will need to pack extra clothing. Choose super absorbent towels that are fast-drying.

• Be sure to keep medications in their original containers, clearly marked with the dosage. Include your child's physician's number.

• Add touches of home with a special "lovey", a few hidden notes, a stationery kit with pre-stamped envelopes and some pictures of family and friends. Know the camp's policy about sending snacks or care packages.

 

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Making the most out of THIS day...

Yesterday proved to be a challenge for me, as I balanced too many meetings with too much downtime.  It was one of those days where nothing was going quite right, and I needed to stop and take a deep breath...  but I didn't.

I have spent my entire morning back-tracking what I couldn't get done yesterday (yes, the Organizer is in need of an Organizer - it happens!)  Although I am out of that little rut I fell into last week  ::Got some GREAT new post ideas and a fresh outlook on blogging::  I am trying to strike new balance with some new additions / changes to our lives right now.

As the day was winding down, I started in on my "To-Do" list for the next day, when I hear an implodable crash in the living room.  As I ran out to investigate, there stands my husband with his jaw on the floor, my Weimaraner, Roxy shivering in the corner over a heap of blood, and shards of glass in every crevice of the room.


She had apparently thought the sliding door was open, ran into it & after it shattered jumped right through it!  There were deep cuts and wounds all over her and as she sat there in shock, I froze!  Now, I have to tell you, I don't have children so she is the closest thing I have got to a daughter - and let me tell you...  I am in every sense of the word her Mommy!  She instantly looked into my eyes and knew she'd be okay, despite the tast of blood pouring out of her nose. 

Organization played a huge part in all of this though.  Luckily I had a folder made up with her shot-records and vet information (being new in town, I wouldn't have known any of this, hadn't I created her own file brightly labeled "Roxy"). 

A very long night in the Animal E.R. and a thousand dollars later, I think we all need a loooong nap!

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My Top 5 Habits To Instantly Get Organized

We are all busy and need constant reminders of ways to create balance in our lives.  I have found that keeping these five simple tools or habits close at hand keeps me accountable:

#5 ~ A Basket

Having a simple basket, box or tray that you can grab and toss random items or toys into can be a valuable tool for making a room appear organized in a jiffy.  When you hear that knock on the door - it's easy to make a quick dash around the room, then carry it with you as you return the items to their homes later on.

#4 ~ A Duster

I dust every day.  Why?  Because if I didn't, all of this black furniture would look really nasty.  Before my husband comes home, I grab my feather duster & make my way through the house.  It only takes a minute & makes the house appear much cleaner than it really is! 

#3 ~ A Pen and Paper

Making a To-Do list every evening before bed is one of the best ways to being the most productive.  If you don't prepare for your week ahead, life gets in the way and makes it so difficult to finish projects or prepare for events.  Setting aside just five minutes to jot down your goals for the next day will free up your mind for more important things.

#2 ~ Emptying the Sink

How many times have you walked into the kitchen, saw dishes in the sink and walked right back out because it looked so overwhelming?  It is unmotivating to get the rest of the house in order when you have unfinished business in there.  When I clean out my sink, everything else kind of falls into place.

And My #1 Habit That Guarantees Organization

Making the bed!  Yes - it goes without saying, your bed is the biggest thing in your room & perhaps in your house.  Taking a minute to pull up that comforter & tuck in the sheets will instantly make your room appear more organized & will make you feel good every time you walk into your bedroom.

What are your best habits for getting your house/family organized?

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Remembering Mothers

Mother's Day is always a bitter-sweet one for me.  I remember fondly, days of luncheons and Sunday outings with my mom.  Honoring her with breakfast in bed and some cheesy gift I made from school.  Her selfless ways of giving to our family, even raising nieces and nephews when they needed a place to stay, speaks volumes how huge her heart was. 

My mom was one of those people who just did.  She never had to think about it - she would just go out and do whatever it was that needed to be done.  She believed in living her dreams and speaking up for what was right.  I never once saw fear in my mother's eyes.  Doubt - yes.  Defeat - yes.  Sadness - yes.  Even sometimes anger, but fear was a four letter word to her.  Even as she lay in the hospital, taking her last breaths of life, she was not afraid.  She looked God right in the eye and asked him what was next. 

I was only 25 when she was taken from us.  She was the kind of person you would just assume would hang on forever, toughing it out.  But on Halloween, she got the terrible news that she was diagnosed with ovarian cancer.  By Christmas, she was gone.

I don't want to depress you with my sad story of losing my mother.  This loss taught me a lot throughout my life.  It taught be to stand up for what I know is right and true, to fight for a better life and not to settle with just good.  To embrace those around us who truly love us with all of their hearts, and to give as much of myself as possible to help those who need to be uplifted.  Since her passing, I have dedicated over 13 years of my life to the prevention of cancer.  I have participated in over 30 Relay For Life events for the American Cancer Society, and contributed thousands of dollars in contribution.

Although my husband doesn't want to have children and there are no children in my family, I find a peace knowing how much I have been loved as a God-Mother, and at one time caretaker to my infant step-niece for a few years.  I celebrate through my friends who are family by choice.  I honor those moms who work selflessly, devoting every fiber of their being to the betterment of their family. 
So thank you Mom <3  You are forever in my heart.  And thanks to all the moms whom I have had the pleasure of meeting here on my organizing blog.  Your comments and twitters make my every day & I think you are true heroes!

~ Happy Mother's Day ~

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Organize Me

As I reflect on my past blog posts, I am proud of the information that I have been able to produce on this blog, but there are some times that I want to talk more about my life and let my personality show through more.  This is a professional organizing blog, which coinsides with my website.  However, I want it to remain fun and interesting for my readers.

As I get to know you more, and learn about what goes on in your lives, I begin to wonder where I really want to take this.  I enjoy many different blogs - Cooking, Interior Design, Nesting, Saving Money, Crafting, Fitness, Blogging, Photography, Business...  There is such a variety out there that I love to read, and even within their Niche they let their audience into their personal lives and expand into their daily living.

My questions to you is:  How can I help you with my blog?  Are you coming back for the content, knowing it will consistantly be about self improvement and organizing, or would it spice things up if I were to incorporate more personal writing into it?  What about doing V-logs?  Would you be upset or happier if I were to blog only on Wednesdays?  Is blogging only 1-2 days a week not enough?  Are there any particular subjects that you would like to hear about within organizing, life balance or time management?  These are my specialties and I defenately want to give you a fun experience with information and useful tools you can walk away with.

I guess all of these questions are coming out because I am getting a bit of writer's block this week - it happens to all of us.  But there have been a lot of things happening in my personal life that is taking away from the attention of my blog and to you!  Great things, actually - I've been working a lot more, and I have started on a new weight-loss journey that has been really successful, so of course I had to add a new Blog!  So you see, this is my life...  a lot is going on right now.

I would love to hear your opinions, and future organizing blog suggestions!!

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