Friday, February 27, 2009

Food Storage Friday

Today is my day to concentrate on Emergency Preparedness. I'm working on an Emergency Binder as part of my disaster kit. I got this idea from a great site:




Here is a list of things they say to include:

□ birth certificates
□ passports
□ social security cards
□ copies of your credit cards front and back
□ homeowners insurance policy
□ auto insurance policy
□ life insurance policy
□ bank statements
□ retirement statements
□ internet passwords (banking, personal, work etc.)
□ immunization records
□ utility statements
□ utility statements
□ work/tax documents that would be difficult to replace
□ CASH - keep a variety of small bills on hand

I know it might seem scary to keep all these things in a binder - but isn't it going to be in your file drawer anyway? I feel peace keeping it in the binder and know I can grab it in an instant if there is an emergency.

I love being prepared!

I'd start a blog called Just Prepare Yourself -
but my name isn't JPY! :0)


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Wednesday, February 25, 2009

Evening Routine Makes the Difference!

Systems & Routines are the keys to STAYING organized. While it feels great to get a closet or drawer uncluttered, our systems and routines KEEP them that way!
Today we are going to work on our Evening Routine. Evening Routines give a head-start on the morning to come. Spending a just few minutes each night will make a HUGE difference!
While each person’s evening routine will be different, I'm including mine to help you get started. Don't forget to help other members of your family develop one too.
  • Start Dishwasher so it's ready to empty in the a.m.
  • Quick Tidy - Just a quick clean-up- kids can and should help too. Nothing feels better than to wake up to a tidy home! Nothing feels worse than starting the day out behind.
  • Get clothes (and other gear) out for the next day. (This includes Keys - I have to make sure I know where my car keys are because we have been doing some key sharing lately.
  • Calendar Check -What's happening tomorrow? Do I or kids or hubby need anything special for tommorow? Any changes in the regular schedule?
  • Daily Docket - I'm trying out Simplemom.net daily planning pages this week. Use what plan works for you. Click on links to try the daily docket too (two sizes):http://www.mediafire.com/file/ummdezxyh1t/sm-dailydocketdownload.pdf
    http://www.mediafire.com/file/5zbj5gglizq/sm- dailydocket-mini.pdf
    Here's an example of a docket filled out:
    http://www.mediafire.com/file/woi40jmnmnn/dailydocket example.jpg
Here's a link to a young child's check off sheet (she uses this for rewards at the end of the week)
http://www.mediafire.com/file/truyzodj5gh/Nightly Routine-kids.doc
This Weeks Challenge: Make your evening routine a habit by posting a copy and practicing daily!
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Tuesday, February 24, 2009

Toss-It-Out Tuesday!

It's time to look around your home and toss those valentine goodies still hanging around. Store the "keepers" in a Rubbermaid-like container marked Valentine's Decor.

Then move onto the bedroom, since we' re in that zone this week - YOUR closet is a great place to start. Winter is drawing to a close, so take a peek at your winter gear -
  • What did you NOT use this season - do you have some sweaters you never wore? What about some hoodies that have seen their better days? TOSS!

  • Quickly scan mitten, scarves, and slippers and toss what's frayed, holey, or mismatched. TOSS!

  • If you have more time, you can do the same thing to your kid's closet and MAYBE your hubby's too - just don't go neat that favorite beanie he's had since high school! TOSS!

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You've got Purse-onality!

"You see the phenomena everywhere you go: women frantically digging in their purses to find a ringing cell phone, a lipstick in hiding, or buried car keys. Chances are that if you are female, then you have been there, done that at some point!"

Isn't that so true?

Today's post is all about putting an end to the frantic digging!

Although there are TONS of purse organizing gadgets, I've discovered the best way for me to conquer clutter in my purse is to use small zippered bags to corral like items. Here's how it works:
  1. Dump: Dump out all the contents of your purse. Set aside items you need to carry with you at all times, such as wallet, cell phone, etc. Toss the trash. Weed through receipts and notes, only keeping the critical ones. File the "keepers" in appropriate locations such as a planner, address book, or folder.

  2. Divide: Divide the items into little groups or catagories by their purpose.

  3. Designate: Designate small zippered bags like makeup or pencil cases. (thanks Michelle) for storing items in each category. Storing common items in separate bags, not only makes it easier for you to stay organized and find what you need, but also helps you quickly switch to a different purse when you’re on the go!

Here are some additional tips:

  • I LOVE my "keyhook" (thank you Lisa). - I've never found my keys so quickly before. Just hook it on the top edge of your bag and you'll know where they are when you need them!

  • Perform weekly maintenance on your purse(s), purging any unnecessary items.
  • Determine your purse type. Then choose a purse or purse organizer that fits your needs.
    - Just One Jenny? - you always use the same bag.
    - Multiple Mary? - you change bags often.

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Monday, February 23, 2009

Recipe Binder Supreme


For anyone that wants to make this binder - here's the link: http://cathyzielske.typepad.com/my_weblog/2007/09/if-you-like-foo.html

Notice the "tabs" punch - I gotta get it!

The only change I would make is to use a regular size binder - the sheet protectors and other supplies won't cost so much & more recipes would fit inside!

Have fun!

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Menu Monday w/ your Recipe Binder



We've talked a lot about the "joys" of binders in the past. Today we're going to take a more detailed look at one of my favorite "Menu Monday"tools: The Recipe Binder.

Last week as we worked in the kitchen zone, I realized my binder was in need of some upkeep. I had tons of recipe's stashed just inside the front cover. This problem can be easily solved by adding a "NEW MEAL" section in your binder. This is where we can stow those recipe's we ALL tear from magazines, print out from the net, or gather from friends. THEN , after we try out the recipe we can trash it OR if it's a "repeater" add to the appropriate section.

Recently I added another helpful section : for "Sunday" meals. Each week I try to have a nice family crock-pot dinner on Sunday - something just step above what I serve during the week. Having a special section devoted to Sunday Meals makes it a snap: just flip the pages and plug the meal in to the plan.

Additional Helpful Sections:
Soup
Salad
Breads
Veggies
Pasta
Chicken
Pork
Beef
Mexican
Cookies & Brownies
Cakes & Pie
Holiday
Kid Fun


Here's the Plan this week:
Monday - Sunday Leftovers
Tuesday - Spaghetti
Wednesday - Elaine's White Chicken Chili
Thursday - MexiCali Pork Chops
Friday - Pizza Night
Saturday - Leftovers
Sunday - Slow Cooker Pot Roast

Click Here for the recipes: http://www.mediafire.com/?w3mm4mmr5dm

Enjoy!

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Thursday, February 19, 2009

Wednesday, February 18, 2009

Laundral!

Here's a guest post from Amber - I came across her blog when I was googling for an image of laundry - isn't that a crack up? I loved her post - haven't we all gone "laundral" at one time or another!


"As Newman from "Seinfeld" once said about postal workers going, as they say, postal..."because the mail never stops". Well I'm about to go "laundral"!!! I do laundry all day, every day and it NEVER stops!!! Seriously, why do my kids and husband (and me, I guess)have to wear clothes EVERY day? And on top of that, they want them to be CLEAN?! I'm not Wonder-Woman. I can't do everything! Is it not enough that I feed them every day? Sometimes even more than once a day? Nooooo, they want clean undies, too! I can't do it, people. If I had unlimited money and could hire someone to do menial tasks for me it would definitely be laundry. OK, and vacuuming and dishes and toilets, too. But other than that, I can handle it."

Thanks for the smile Amber!

Click here to visit my laundry system post:
http://justorganizeyourself.blogspot.com/2009/01/clean-up-your-laundry.html
And here's one about setting up an effecient laundry room:
http://justorganizeyourself.blogspot.com/2009/01/essentials-of-effecient-laundry-room.html

And here are a few additional tips:

  • De-junk closets. Get rid of things you've outgrown or don't wear. Send used kids' items to a thrift store where someone else can benefit from them. Really downsize and keep only the things that you love and wear! (This will save MORE time than anything else you can do!)
  • Keep dirty clothes bins/hampers in places where dirty clothes are dropped (bedroom, bathroom, laundry room etc.
  • Make your laundry room more fun! Bring color into your laundry room with a cheerful rug, curtains or framed kid’s artwork.
  • Keep supplies in arms reach — spot removers, detergent, bleach, dryer sheets, empty hangers... Keep extras of all your basic laundry supplies on hand to avoid last minute trips to the store. When you pull a bottle of detergent out of your storage area, jot it on your errands list and you’ll always have everything you need for laundry right at hand.
  • Don’t wash towels every time you take a shower - you are clean when you get out of the shower.
  • AND of course my favorite.... 2 small loads a day keeps the piles away!

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Tuesday, February 17, 2009

Toss-It-Out Tuesday!

Clutter can be very overwhelming & it’s hard to know where to start! It can paralyze you - but NOT taking any action to clear the clutter can make you feel helpless and depressed. Taking action, even if it’s only 15 minutes a day, is empowering and relieves stress.

So do a little every day. But - be careful, once you get started - you can really get carried away. You don't want to do sooooo much that you neglect the rest of your home. Remember to always do your MM's to keep up on the "have-to's".

I like the idea of de-cluttering by zone. This week we are in the KITCHEN/PANTRY zone - start by clearing out one drawer or cupboard.

Make sure you keep in mind how much time you have to declutter. Only take out what you can put back in the time allotted. This might mean you only have time to complete just one drawer, one closet or even one shelf in one closet. That's okay - remember even a little progress can help you feel empowered and de-stressed!

If you need to - Set a Timer! Set it to half the time you plan on spending de-cluttering. When the timer goes off, that’s when you need to start putting things away.

Leave a comment and let me know how much you tossed!
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Last call for Pics

I've received some amazing pictures of kids helping (still waiting for those hubby pics). Last call - I'm posting them on Friday! Remember you can e-mail them to me at: rjluckycharmed@yahoo.com
It's so much fun to share ideas!!

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Monday, February 16, 2009

Menu Monday & Cookbooks

We are in the Kitchen Zone this week. One could get carried away in this zone - but remember 15 minutes a day is all that's required. Don't forget this zone comes around again next month so catch whatever you missed then.

First on my list - go thru my cookbooks - I've heard THREE different people talk about purging cookbooks in the last week.

With web sites like:
All Recipes
Epicurious
Cooking.com
Cooks.com
Supercook.com

Maybe it IS time to let some of our cookbooks go?


Monday - Pizza - Little Caesars 3.99 customer appreciation sale.
Tuesday - Baked Teriyaki Chicken http://allrecipes.com/Recipe/Baked-Teriyaki-Chicken/Detail.aspx
Wednesday - Chicken Noodle Souphttp://www.cooks.com/rec/view/0,1741,128185-255198,00.html
Thursday - Lazy Day Lasagna http://www.recipezaar.com/Lazy-Day-Lasagna-3525
Friday - Tacos/Burritos for kids - Date Night for Dad & Mom
Saturday - Leftovers
Sunday: Crock Pot BBQ Beef on Hamburger Buns

Let me know how the cookbook de-cluttering goes!
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Sunday, February 15, 2009

Cleaning Your Home in 3-D!


If MM's and MIT's are too overwhelming for you - try starting your morning routine with the 3-D's.

My super organized sister-in-law taught me about this. Every morning she completes her...

...Dishes, Duds, and Dinner!

That is - catch-up dishes, start laundry, and complete dinner prep. That way, even if the rest of her day is packed, (she is the Relief Society President AND has 5 busy kids) she never gets too far behind and her home remains a peaceful place.

Thanks for sharing Erika!

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Friday, February 13, 2009



Congratulations to Powers Fam!

E-mail me and I'll send your Valentine's Treats!
rjluckycharmed@yahoo.com

Thanks to everyone who joined in the fun!
.
Don't forget to check in again soon-
Next give-away will help you organize your PURSE!

so just organize yourself ...one step at a time

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Thursday, February 12, 2009

FOCUS


The following is the reason we consentrate on our MM's or our MIT's FIRST!

I decide to water my garden.
As I turn on the hose in the driveway,
I look over at my car and decide it needs washing.
As I start toward the garage,
I notice mail on the porch table.
I decide to go through the mail before I wash the car. I lay my car keys on the table, put the junk mail in the waste paper basket under the table, and notice that the basket is full. So, I decide to put the bills back on the table and take out the rubbish first.

But then I think, since I'm going to be near the mailbox when I take out the rubbish anyway, I may as well pay the bills first. I take my check book off the table, and see that there is only one check left. My extra checks are in my desk in the study, so I go inside the house to my desk where I find the can of soda I'd been drinking.

I'm going to look for my checks, but first I need to push the soda aside so that I don't accidentally knock it over. The soda is getting warm, and I decide to put it in the refrigerator to keep it cold. As I head toward the kitchen with the soda, a vase of flowers on the worktop catches my eye--they need water. I put the soda on the worktop and discover my reading glasses that I've been searching for all morning.

I decide I better put them back on my desk, but first I'm going to water the flowers. I set the glasses back down on the worktop, fill a container with water and suddenly spot the TV remote. Someone left it on the kitchen table. I realize that tonight when we go to watch TV, I'll be looking for the remote, but I won't remember that it's on the kitchen table, so I decide to put it back in the den where it belongs, but first I'll water the flowers. I pour some water in the flowers, but quite a lot of it spills on the floor. So, I set the remote back on the table, get some towels and wipe up the spill. Then, I head down the hall trying to remember what I was planning to do.


At the end of the day:
The car isn't washed
The bills aren't paid
There is a warm can of soda sitting on the worktop
The flowers don't have enough water,
There is still only 1 check in my check book,
I can't find the remote,
I can't find my glasses, and I don't remember what I did with the car keys.

Then, when I try to figure out why nothing got done today,
I'm really baffled because I know I was busy all darn day, and I'm really tired.
I realize this is a serious problem, and I'll try to get some help for it,
but first I'll check my e-mail....



Next Week we'll be talking about: How to use "lazer sharp focus and get more done!"


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Tuesday, February 10, 2009

Post Your Pics!

Wanted

Is this called a TAG? (I'm fairly new to this blogging stuff)

Post pics of your kids (or hubbies) helping around the house on YOUR blog this week! Leave a comment and let me know and I'll add your name to this weeks give-a-way!

I'd like to post the pics next week on MY blog - with your permission so let me know if it's okay. It's fun to get ideas from each other!

If you don't have a blog - you can e-mail me pics at rjluckycharmed@yahoo.com!

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Monday, February 9, 2009

Valentine Give-Away!

Nothing will make your kitchen sparkle as much as a new valentine dish towel and a set of heart-shaped measuring spoons! Get your name in the drawing on Febrary 13th by completing challenges and leaving comments. Remember you can get your name in the drawing multiple times. Each time you complete a task - leave a comment and your name will go in. ON FRIDAY I'll have one of my 5-joys pick a name out of the hat.

Challenges:
  • Delegate one of your MM's to another family member.
  • Write out tasks your children need to do in the AM.
    Post in a visible location.
  • Write out tasks your children need to do in the PM.
  • Work in the Zone of the Week (Family Room) for 15 minutes. De-clutter first!
  • Complete one of your LEAST favorite chores.
  • Give your Hubby a Valentine!


JUST ORGANIZE YOURSELF!

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Chore Charts and Job Lists


I am not a fan of elaborate job charts with lots of bells and whistles. I tried those when I had two small children and maybe they were fun at the time: "Feed the "job cookie" to the monster when you complete a job. When you've fed all the cookies to the monster - you get a cookie! You get the idea. But, after a couple more kids and all the crazies life brings - I found that I just couldn't keep up with the stickers and gum.

Instead, I use job lists. Unlike charts where the chart itself is geared to motivate the child –a job list is exactly what it sounds like - a list of jobs for the child. It's made primarily to communicate the child's responsibilities and designed to last for a long period of time – maybe a school year or a summer. That way when life swallows us up and we can’t be on top of everything – the children still have their lists, they know what their in charge of, and the important things still get done.
Here's some Sample Job Lists:

Early job list: http://www.mediafire.com/?m4jazxnylkj
Older Elementary List w/ morning, after school, and night routine: http://www.mediafire.com/file/zmzd2jnhftz

Junior High Job List
http://www.mediafire.com/file/yvgz4wyoznz/

By High School the kids should be able to develop their own lists - I found this on the back of my high school freshman's door.
I smiled!

Here's my favorite list. This is a list of jobs that need to be done to keep up the house for the week. (including my MM) The kids pick one job from the list every morning and afternoon.
http://www.mediafire.com/?ymqynw1zumj

This weeks challenge: Delegate some household chores!

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