tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-16386208271529973182024-03-05T22:10:08.518-08:00Org Junkie's Product ReviewsThe place to come to be inspired by awesome organizational toolsLaurahttp://www.blogger.com/profile/15867964298149410340noreply@blogger.comBlogger29125tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-1638620827152997318.post-70956402919080651722009-03-08T19:38:00.000-07:002009-03-08T19:40:59.197-07:00I have moved this blog to a new domain. I hope you'll check out my new review site by clicking the button below. Thanks!<br /><br /><a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="http://www.orgjunkie.com/reviews/"><img style="margin: 0px auto 10px; display: block; text-align: center; cursor: pointer; width: 125px; height: 125px;" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh_gb-mIK1gS6xOxtJK8bib22y5jPt8AZbBfZLoeuf_7YCYkOSOre9050ijDG_zuItqoe8tzO_cJ2GQsat4cKpTKjNlzBxFp1JvYTTL9QfbMPjvwxH4GcwgL2DZMV3BQOqC3_0fLEKDhe3H/s400/orgjunkie125.jpg" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5311012339826856034" border="0" /></a><br /><br /><p><img class="centered" alt="post signature" src="http://designsbysummer.googlepages.com/orgjunkiesiggy.jpg" /></p>Laurahttp://www.blogger.com/profile/15867964298149410340noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-1638620827152997318.post-59857047766721836032009-02-19T18:14:00.000-08:002009-02-19T20:27:06.784-08:00Creating photo books with InkubookAs many of my readers know organizing my photos has always been an issue for me. I really struggle with this. I suppose a lot of it has to do with the huge amount of pictures I take and then because of that I get completely overwhelmed with the whole editing, printing and filing process. The more pictures that get backlogged on me the more stressed I get and then the more I procrastinate the project. It's easy for me to ignore because I'm not tripping over my pictures on a daily basis, they are tucked away on my computer. Out of sight, out of mind as they say. It's definitely a viscious cycle that is for sure.<br /><div></div><br /><div>I've heard people talking about photo books for awhile now but they sounded complicated to my simple mind and I seriously didn't want another thing confusing me. In January though I had the opportunity to check out <a href="http://inkubook.com/themes/inkubookdefault/common/Home.aspx">Inkubook</a>, an online photo book publishing service. A service that I absolutely fell in love with.</div><br /><img id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5304723960433306562" style="DISPLAY: block; MARGIN: 0px auto 10px; WIDTH: 400px; CURSOR: hand; HEIGHT: 300px; TEXT-ALIGN: center" alt="" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhv4BsTYWRg812yZf28gHMYX_NhDAHJoUhc-I_1Ha_WDqClOVUD8n5rePj0MOfjCD_K58y6hqZXbYR0vCMMRJiJywb6eIceH0TNCYJObp8BBEo87sTvLb0gdYV66mTk7gibk_4RGdH9xd-C/s400/Inkubook.jpg" border="0" /><br /><div></div><div></div><div></div><div>Love, love, love <a href="http://inkubook.com/themes/inkubookdefault/common/Home.aspx">Inkubook</a>! Now that we've got that out of the way, let me tell you why. From start to finish the process was so EASY. So easy even I could figure it out!</div><div></div><div></div><div></div><br /><div>First thing I did was sign up for an account, which is free, and it allows you to play around creating books and having fun yet with no obligation to buy ever. Sweet! I decided to do a 2008 Christmas album and clicked on "start a new book". The next screen gave me two options and this is where I really started to get excited.</div><br /><div></div><div>The options were:</div><br /><div></div><div><span style="color:#3366ff;">Autofill my book</span> ~ kick back and let us do the work. Choose your photos and we'll create the first pass of your book</div><div></div><br /><div>or</div><div></div><br /><div><span style="color:#3333ff;">Start from scratch</span> ~ feeling adventurous and creative? Build your book from start to finish.</div><div></div><div></div><br /><div>Gee I wonder which one I picked?? Option #1 of course because I like simple and that sounded simple. And was it ever. All I had to do was select my theme (Contemporary Christmas for me) and upload my pictures (I had about 86 pictures) and then just sit back and wait while Inkubook did all the work. In about 10-15 minutes Inkubook chose the picture size and background pattern for each page and varied it up so each page was different. And because it puts the pictures in in the order you uploaded them they were all in the right sequence. I am not kidding you when I say how blown away I was by this. When the computer was finished doing it's thing, just like that I had a beautiful book with lovely holiday patterned and colored background pages.</div><br /><div></div><div>At this point I was given the option of making any adjustments I saw fit to either picture placement and size or to the layout and backgrounds. I could also add text if I wanted to. I only needed to move a couple of pictures around and it was super easy to do although to be honest I did run into a little snafu with my cover page. I decided I wanted to change the picture on the cover but when I tried to do it I could only get a tiny picture and of course I wanted it to fill the whole page. </div><br /><div></div><div>I must admit I panicked for a good couple of minutes before, out of the corner of my eye, I saw a button that said Live Chat. Live Chat, ya right, that'll be the day. I clicked on it and a chat box came up. I wrote hello in the box and sat back thinking I was going to have to wait awhile before anything happened. To say I was a little skeptical would have been an understatement. Would you believe someone immediately typed back hello to me. It was so quick I assumed I was corresponding with a computer but as I explained my problem and this friendly "computer" chatted back with me I realized I was in fact talking to a REAL LIVE person and not only that but she fixed me up lickety split and I was back on my way. Holy smokes how's that for service!</div><br /><div></div><img id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5304729149173927746" style="DISPLAY: block; MARGIN: 0px auto 10px; WIDTH: 400px; CURSOR: hand; HEIGHT: 300px; TEXT-ALIGN: center" alt="" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi4p53oA_1cGxFi3MdLjbH_QW4_P5eg-6PTbMS2iHsk76mwXumcB_ttNI2L82ja-SJowUSDNRh38TdvlFqqUrvfmzq4hYN3EtDe19eIRphYaUjJhSfOmZDgU9dvslINT-9mlMvOhm-6ZpU6/s400/inkubook1.jpg" border="0" /><br /><div></div><div></div><div>When my book arrived in the mail I simply could not have been more pleased. It is a stunning hardcover book filled with pages and pages of amazing pictures printed on archival-quality silk paper.</div><div></div><br /><div>The price for a book with 86 pictures? $43.95 which works out to about 51 cents a picture. But keep in mind that these pictures aren't all 4x6 size. I have some 4x6, some 5x7 and some full page pictures included plus I don't have to buy an album on top of that. It's done. Done as in once I get the book I don't have to do a single other thing to it except enjoy it!</div><br /><div></div><div>The last thing that I want to touch on is that my book is thin which means it takes up way less space on my shelf than a photo album would holding the same amount of pictures. This is perfect for me as I'm fast running out of room on my photo album shelf.</div><br /><div></div><div>Finally if anyone is interested, <a href="http://inkubook.com/themes/inkubookdefault/common/Home.aspx">Inkubook</a> is offering free shipping right now to residents of the US until the end of February with the code <a href="http://inkubook.com/resources/media/coupons/FebPromo_FShipping_Coupon.pdf">LUVFREESHIP</a>. Also once you have an account set up you'll be notified of any future promotions going on which is nice.</div><div></div><br /><div>Check it out ~ it's fun, easy, beautiful and FAST!</div><br /><div></div><a href="http://inkubook.com/themes/inkubookdefault/common/Home.aspx"><img id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5304720965521282706" style="DISPLAY: block; MARGIN: 0px auto 10px; WIDTH: 260px; CURSOR: hand; HEIGHT: 134px; TEXT-ALIGN: center" alt="" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgKipxBCC1qCqVNHa8D6N0PXg_sRO_6EdCq51iz3-C5EG6JukiCg5XUa5F0ub0zrKiGnA2wOti6ziBGoIo_NWixAgfwPsGY3rUWZX5TWQOB7ij-F2ZknM-sRMkNrQqs5a0o8ZFTDav1AdAA/s400/inkubook_badge.png" border="0" /></a>Did I mention I love Inkubook?! :)<br /><div><br /><br /><img class="centered" alt="post signature" src="http://designsbysummer.googlepages.com/orgjunkiesiggy.jpg" /></div><br /><div></div><br /><div></div>Laurahttp://www.blogger.com/profile/15867964298149410340noreply@blogger.com5tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-1638620827152997318.post-7702901475471611312009-02-10T10:49:00.000-08:002009-02-17T09:20:21.191-08:00Dymo LetraTag Label Maker LT-100HAs a Professional Organizer you would think that I am in love with the label maker. Truth is I'm not, or should I say, I wasn't. You see I have a pretty fancy dancy label maker that I purchased a couple of years ago but that I rarely used because it was just too complicated for me to figure out. I'm a simple girl, complicated bugs me. I don't have time to mess around with a hundred different bells and whistles.<br /><br />So when Dymo contacted me to try out their LetraTag LT-100H model I was a little skeptical, considering my track record and all, but my optimism told me to go for it.<br /><br /><a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj7njE_TvKZ3vsxhOrBAi0PF3I7a9XnT3HEBeqPR13vpyGqB58eN-yIxfPuI0lssswlLhING2kwp2WKU5whVzje6w3UMME4558wQHreHgQENh248dpYkcmvCgkdMv4M3l6OgZbBHSwqxqNn/s1600-h/letratag.jpg"><img id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5301244539467751154" style="DISPLAY: block; MARGIN: 0px auto 10px; WIDTH: 170px; CURSOR: pointer; HEIGHT: 170px; TEXT-ALIGN: center" alt="" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj7njE_TvKZ3vsxhOrBAi0PF3I7a9XnT3HEBeqPR13vpyGqB58eN-yIxfPuI0lssswlLhING2kwp2WKU5whVzje6w3UMME4558wQHreHgQENh248dpYkcmvCgkdMv4M3l6OgZbBHSwqxqNn/s400/letratag.jpg" border="0" /></a>Well hello, so easy to use, it's a piece of cake and look at me labeling everything in site, label maker! Gosh this thing is so easy to use and so much less expensive to purchase as well. Now granted it's probably missing some of the "extras" that my old label maker had but because I could never figure them out, I can't even begin to tell you what they were anyway.<br /><br />I want to be able to just turn the thing on, type up a label, switch from capitals to no capitals with the touch of one button, go from alpha to numerical with just one button, print and be done with it. Is that too much to ask for? Not with this little beauty. It fits into one hand and you can even type up a label just using your thumb if you want to. Now that's convenience!<br /><br />The actual labels you can buy for it come in quite the variety including ones that are magnetic. Very cool option if I do say so myself. I like that the label backing is split in the middle making them a cinch to peel off too.<br /><br />The only time I had to actually use the manual (something I don't generally take the time to do) and the one downfall that I could find with this label maker was trying to figure out how to find the apostrophe. It's hidden in with the symbols which still isn't hard to find but I do wish that it had it's own button.<br /><br />The other thing to consider is that while you can change print sizes and chose from six different font styles (normal, bold, italic, outline, shadow and vertical) you can't change the actual font itself. This doesn't bother me at all though because I like all my labels to be uniform anyway.<br /><br />If you are looking for a no-nonsense, simple to use AND inexpensive label maker than the Dymo LetraTag may be the one for you.<br /><br />Oh and did I mention it can also do two line printing if you want, yay! :)<br /><br /><a href="http://www.amazon.com/gp/product/B000NG0N3A?ie=UTF8&tag=imanorgjun-20&linkCode=as2&camp=1789&creative=390957&creativeASIN=B000NG0N3A">Available for </a><a href="http://www.amazon.com/gp/product/B000NG0N3A?ie=UTF8&tag=imanorgjun-20&linkCode=as2&camp=1789&creative=390957&creativeASIN=B000NG0N3A">$19.14 through Amazon</a><img style="BORDER-RIGHT: medium none; BORDER-TOP: medium none; MARGIN: 0px; BORDER-LEFT: medium none; BORDER-BOTTOM: medium none" height="1" alt="" src="http://www.assoc-amazon.com/e/ir?t=imanorgjun-20&l=as2&o=1&a=B000NG0N3A" width="1" border="0" /><br /><br /><br /><p><img class="centered" alt="post signature" src="http://designsbysummer.googlepages.com/orgjunkiesiggy.jpg" /></p>Laurahttp://www.blogger.com/profile/15867964298149410340noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-1638620827152997318.post-81513426508055730022009-01-14T19:40:00.000-08:002009-01-21T11:15:25.319-08:00Go! The Essential Guide To Organizing and Moving + giveaway!<em><span style="color:#ff9900;">Updated to add:</span> This giveaway is now over. The winner is Jerri from </em><a href="http://simplysweethome.blogspot.com/"><em>Simply Sweet Home</em></a><em>!</em><br /><br />When I attended the Professional Organizer's Conference last November I had the privilege of meeting two spunky and fun ladies, Gail Shields and Karen Shinn, of <a href="http://www.stress-freemoving.com/index.htm">Stress-Free Moving</a>. Gail and Karen have recently written an excellent resource book, called Go! The Essential Guide To Organizing and Moving, that will help anyone even thinking about moving come to grips with it.<a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="http://www.stress-freemoving.com/"><img id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5291363206188480818" style="DISPLAY: block; MARGIN: 0px auto 10px; WIDTH: 200px; CURSOR: pointer; HEIGHT: 259px; TEXT-ALIGN: center" alt="" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiWw5oQfB2YHrJEEg9WRYZFxkOmWXMX713eMPo_hXML4rLn_9zbPbcR7h8ZivfdT_Z1-Dbh6ud1L7-cyEcF1diq8QZDuhTxHjgD19VkbgzV3HEAv9xdo2624rJe2JrO8zmyyjQrcq6uxmEk/s400/image_bookcover_white.gif" border="0" /></a> <p>Let's face it, moving is daunting. I moved within town about five years ago and I still shudder just remembering the stress involved. This book would have been a tremendous help to me way back then.</p><p>Go! is designed as a complete moving resource. The first part of the book provides tips, tricks and techniques used to ensure successful moves and the second part is your personal moving workbook. It contains checklists, countdown calendars and note pages to help you keep track of all of the details of your move.</p><p>This comprehensive book takes you through each step of the moving process and, with so many things to keep track of, it's comforting to know that someone else has already compiled and provided the critical information and checklists needed for a smooth move. Talk about taking the pressure off.</p><p>It's written in easy to read format with pictures scattered throughout for visual interest. It is also wire spiral bound which is essential in a resource and planning guide so that it lies flat for taking notes.</p><p style="COLOR: rgb(204,51,204)"><span style="font-size:100%;">Gail and Karen's Top Ten Tips for an organized move are:</span></p><ul><li>Plan ahead</li><li>Measure carefully to ensure good space planning</li><li>Ask questions</li><li>Edit your "stuff" before you move</li><li>Keep all notes and numbers in the same place</li><li>Check community resources and recycle</li><li>Ask for help. It's not always cheaper or easier to do it yourself</li><li>Select the right equipment to get the job done</li><li>Always have a Plan B</li><li>Enjoy the process</li></ul>Excellent advice ladies, thank you!<br /><br />Currently the Go! book is only available for purchase from their website, <a href="http://www.stress-freemoving.com/pages/go.htm">Stress-Free Moving</a>. Price $24.95 Cdn.<br /><br />Today Karen and Gail are giving away a copy of their book though to one lucky reader! So if you are thinking about moving anytime soon then you'll want to put your name in for sure. All you have to do is just leave a comment below before Monday, January 19th at 6:00 pm PST. Open to everyone.<br /><br />Good luck!<br /><br /><p><img class="centered" alt="post signature" src="http://designsbysummer.googlepages.com/orgjunkiesiggy.jpg" /></p>Laurahttp://www.blogger.com/profile/15867964298149410340noreply@blogger.com61tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-1638620827152997318.post-50013978958301090712008-12-28T15:55:00.000-08:002008-12-30T23:03:21.289-08:004 great wall calendar options for 2009Today I'd like to share four very different wall calendar options with you. Each of them is brilliant and effective in it's own way. Some of you may remember I have <a href="http://orgjunkie.com/2008/01/youll-be-happy-to-know-that-i-draw-the-line-at-putting-a-calendar-in-my-bathroom.html">a bit of a calendar fixation</a> as I like to keep them in nearly every room of my house. I only <span style="font-style: italic;">actually</span> use one though as my main calendar, the rest I just like to look at. It's bizarre, what can I say :)<br /><br />Every year I gather up some calendars and slowly begin the process of narrowing down which one will take the coveted space in my kitchen as my central calendar. The grand poo-bah if you will. I hate to hurt any of their feelings but there can be only one.<br /><br />Let me share my top four picks with you by telling you a little bit about each of them. I was going to give you a list of the pros and cons of each but I don't think that would be fair. What I may see as a con someone else may see as a plus, only you can decide which one will be suitable for your own unique circumstances. So I'll stick to the facts and then at the end I'll tell you why I choose the one that I did and why it works for me.<br /><br />Clicking on each calendar title will take you to the online source.<br /><br /><p style="color: rgb(51, 102, 255);"><a href="http://www.busybodybook.com/#wall"><span style="font-size:130%;">2009 BusyBodyBook Wall Calendar</span></a></p><a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="http://www.busybodybook.com/#wall"><img style="margin: 0px auto 10px; display: block; text-align: center; cursor: pointer; width: 331px; height: 188px;" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEglCs-xtUR7trvvYtavtH72n8Ocm0Ijn2BMvTT-xEy1U20FFx8uY4CrZCHeuImTuDu-LhHq57k2ld2fv3Y4e4TbCYT-9lY6-aU2rbew4ddg-Kq3CPYQaJmS2ubwOQHosT3gq1sXMYzpTYXK/s400/busybodybook.gif" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5285049528767169122" border="0" /></a><ul><li>Not your typical monthly calendar...this one is in weekly grid format with seven spacious columns accommodating up to seven family members or other activities such as meal planning or household chores.</li><li>Each person simply reads down the column to see their appointments/activities for each day.</li><li>Works well for very busy households with each individual requiring large amounts of daily space.<br /></li><li>Every other column is lightly shaded to provide differentiation.</li><li>There is a 4-inch pocket on the inside back cover to hold important papers, receipts or coupons.<br /></li><li>Offered in two sizes 14" x 11.25" (1 week view) or 14" x 22.5" (2 week view)<br /></li><li>Price: $14.95<br /></li></ul><p style="color: rgb(51, 102, 255);"><a href="http://www.timetoo.com/product/detail/?sku=FWAL08"><span style="font-size:130%;"><br /></span></a></p><p style="color: rgb(51, 102, 255);"><a href="http://www.timetoo.com/product/detail/?sku=FWAL08"><span style="font-size:130%;">2009 Time Too Family Tracker Calendar</span></a></p><a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="http://www.timetoo.com/product/detail/?sku=FWAL08"><img style="margin: 0px auto 10px; display: block; text-align: center; cursor: pointer; width: 350px; height: 263px;" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjcquCH5jAnPq3iRVz2kCI7PybAwbE1N-m4V1fETbf06f-FLQs3_vmzRbbUMDTuWNVoKUy-CEvdKZq-OoI_bCOLJoTIkmRANdwdXcj6mseYfxLj6lzX_FVWes9JDQHuM2_5a6eHMCnAP04M/s400/familytracker.jpg" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5285051764052914674" border="0" /></a><ul><li>Typical monthly format except this calendar runs from Monday to Sunday.</li><li>Calendar is supersized at 16" x 19" providing large daily squares.<br /></li><li>Each square has two different color guides at the top and bottom of each white square to assist with tracking of activities. The bottom blue area is to help you differentiate your evening activities from your daytime activities.<br /></li><li>Weekends easily stand out as they are lightly shaded green boxes.<br /></li><li>Big green box at the of each month is an area set aside for planning ahead. Beside that is an area to track events that need to be RSVP'd to.</li><li>Printed on 100% recycled, forest friendly, chlorine free paper.</li><li>Price: $29.95 currently on sale for $16.95<br /></li></ul><p style="color: rgb(51, 102, 255);"><a href="http://store.family-facts.com/servlet/-strse-139/wall-calendar/Detail"><span style="font-size:130%;"><br /></span></a></p><p style="color: rgb(51, 102, 255);"><a href="http://store.family-facts.com/servlet/-strse-139/wall-calendar/Detail"><span style="font-size:130%;">2009 Family Facts Family Activity Calendar</span></a></p><ul><li><a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="http://store.family-facts.com/servlet/-strse-139/wall-calendar/Detail"><img style="margin: 0px auto 10px; display: block; text-align: center; cursor: pointer; width: 400px; height: 287px;" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjiTRzlFN_p6YPqEw0pD5n_ka4Km7dwPTP_P18N_bzYd5NVOYX3JHXGHVzX_4j80VXpT3BSos-OlJltmMuJyzxTOtnrRfoLqvWTTLE_WBhziH-MzpkBwTn14nbdhiArh4UNi7LrdO_dLJLv/s400/FamilyFacts.jpg" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5285050032338967778" border="0" /></a>Typical monthly calendar format (Sunday to Saturday) however what sets this calendar apart is that each box (day) has 5 different colored and lightly shaded lines allowing you to assign each family member or activity a different color if you want.</li><li>Size 14" x 23"</li><li>Fold out write on/wipe-off boards (dry-erase marker included) to list contacts, reminders, notes to family members or anything else you don't want to forget.</li><li>Large pocket at the bottom to keep schedules, school handouts, and other important papers.</li><li>Comes with a large sheet of stickers to mark birthdays, payments and appointments.</li><li>Price: $12.95<br /></li></ul><p style="color: rgb(51, 102, 255);"><a href="http://www.moretimemoms.com/products/fo.html#"><span style="font-size:130%;"><br /></span></a></p><p style="color: rgb(51, 102, 255);"><a href="http://www.moretimemoms.com/products/fo.html#"><span style="font-size:130%;">2009 More Time Moms Family Organizer Calendar</span></a></p><a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="http://www.moretimemoms.com/products/fo.html#"><img style="margin: 0px auto 10px; display: block; text-align: center; cursor: pointer; width: 400px; height: 290px;" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhLTLC-BZefx5oA12qVZUqA2PxrcbMLiiWm8vRHVVr9TQ8qnslI-l5zkr6Ysfhu24j29MeYosdw5rNCEGCjpUeFISksyA8GNiA7z4TOikYrYZ8I5xMZNqNu5yA8hglFNk3nPT1E_oSx3R7g/s400/moretimemoms1.gif" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5285835075524909970" border="0" /></a><a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhvZAVzmO1BTDaeIemMFlWgGBzQfPWIPJqlwwbZlhGATtx0Gev3SGig6Wt8sWdS5mtooxSLtpe3cuObL-8p2eZU0RVLfXnS9nFO3yfpnVE1FbE5rvfo2CuEjJ-aUeI7WRaITWwCNrcljfpw/s1600-h/moretimemoms.gif"></a><ul><li>Typical monthly calendar running Sunday to Saturday with each large square (2.1 x 3.5) complete with 9 lines to write on.</li><li>Calendar size 15" x 22"<br /></li><li>Large inside back pocket for bills and loose paperwork.</li><li>Large sticker sheet included to mark birthdays, appointments and vacations.</li><li>Can be hung in half month size to accommodate smaller spaces.</li><li>Each month has additional white space for Kid's Chores and Reminders.</li><li>Price: $14.99</li></ul><br />So as you can see each of these calendars provides something distinctive for your scheduling <s>fantasties</s> functions. The goal is to be able to find a calendar that is easily used by the whole family making it simple and efficient to track who needs to be where and when.<br /><br />For me I was able to narrow my choices down somewhat because I know from past experience that not only do I prefer to use the typical monthly format (we really don't have enough family activities to warrant the weekly grid format) I also prefer to see big white boxes. Last year I used a calendar that offered colored boxes with various shading and I found it to be too distracting to my eyes and didn't generate the feeling of calmness I crave from seeing big white spaces. Of course keep in mind that this is just what works for me and your needs may be entirely different. Often it does take some trial and error year to year to really cement down your particulars. Because I'd used a completely different calendar last year it really made this year's decision that much easier for me. The calendar I have chosen to be my right hand this year will be the <a href="http://www.moretimemoms.com/products/fo.html#">2009 More Time Moms Family Organizer</a>.<br /><br />And in case you are worried about the others, please don't. They will be given good homes somewhere else in my house where I can keep an eye on them and still appreciate their beauty :)<br /><br /><span style="font-style: italic;">Which one do you think would work for you?</span><br /><p><br /></p><p><img class="centered" alt="post signature" src="http://designsbysummer.googlepages.com/orgjunkiesiggy.jpg" /></p>Laurahttp://www.blogger.com/profile/15867964298149410340noreply@blogger.com29tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-1638620827152997318.post-18910903342714814222008-11-27T20:52:00.000-08:002008-12-02T18:56:54.802-08:00Meet the Pouchee and then try to win one!<span style="font-style: italic; color: rgb(51, 51, 255);">Updated: The winner of the very cool hot pink Pouchee is Leanna Miller! Congratulations Leanna!!</span><br /><br />If you are home reading this and not out braving the stores on this crazy shopping day you are in for a treat. A treat that doesn't require any early mornings or long line ups AND keeps the contents of your purse so organized you simply won't believe it. It just doesn't get any better than that now does it :)<br /><br /><br /><p>Let me introduce you to the <a href="http://organizewithsandy.com/pouchees.html">Pouchee</a>, the Ultimate Purse Organizer!</p><a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh6S1MXkNkA8UeMOJduIZDzbYu2uOk1jTyov08OVSEUkX3Fb0UlSp3UMYsXEMO63PuJSO8eLvpGkqVpU0zGN753UrjelLKVu6YXd-MaRc6IKMQI9RTydTLlG3Fdd5xIrD3Vp8jcOCags3ev/s1600-h/cotton_red.jpg"><img style="margin: 0px auto 10px; display: block; text-align: center; cursor: pointer; width: 362px; height: 241px;" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh6S1MXkNkA8UeMOJduIZDzbYu2uOk1jTyov08OVSEUkX3Fb0UlSp3UMYsXEMO63PuJSO8eLvpGkqVpU0zGN753UrjelLKVu6YXd-MaRc6IKMQI9RTydTLlG3Fdd5xIrD3Vp8jcOCags3ev/s400/cotton_red.jpg" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5273574431101302146" border="0" /></a><p>When organizer friend, <a href="http://www.organizewithsandy.blogspot.com/">Sandy Jenney</a> (be sure to check out her new cute blog design!), first told me about these lovely little beauties, I have to admit I'd never heard of them before. I was intrigued and so she sent me one to try out and it sure didn't take me long to fall in love. Talk about brilliant thinking here ladies.</p><p>What makes this product so clever is that it solves a problem that annoys most women especially women that like to switch their purses up on a regular basis. The Pouchee is designed to carry all your essential purse items in one spot so that when you want to change your bag or purse up you simply just grab your Pouchee and move it from one bag to another. Just like that. Two seconds flat. No fumbling around trying to make sure you get everything. Forget having to say ever again "oh drat I left it in my other purse".<br /></p><p>Now although this little Pouchee is compact (it's about 7 x 5 in) it holds A LOT. There is room for everything including your sunglasses, credit cards, money, lipsticks, chequebook, keys, notebook, cell phone, etc. Here are some of the features:<br /></p><ul><li>5 credit card slots</li><li>3 outside pockets (two of them big enough to hold a cell phone)</li><li>one inside zippered pocket</li><li>three divided areas inside</li><li>two inside lipstick pockets</li><li>magnetic closure</li><li>flat bottom so it stands alone</li><li>two cute circle carrying handles</li></ul><a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiMezqCNj6sO7-xjJnaK9ObuRHijGghMvipE__qXdKfNXHlaW2aDbFKJlYg6MiOcsoGciwx-QvsmlAUsKEWqaE_OGmx6CqXyXozqmWHaC7DaPwOcHCGkpupiwuL0Ze_OmEc1ibj9Vz2E1mx/s1600-h/DSC_9359.jpg"><img style="margin: 0px auto 10px; display: block; text-align: center; cursor: pointer; width: 362px; height: 241px;" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiMezqCNj6sO7-xjJnaK9ObuRHijGghMvipE__qXdKfNXHlaW2aDbFKJlYg6MiOcsoGciwx-QvsmlAUsKEWqaE_OGmx6CqXyXozqmWHaC7DaPwOcHCGkpupiwuL0Ze_OmEc1ibj9Vz2E1mx/s400/DSC_9359.jpg" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5273581107308574834" border="0" /></a><a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh6S1MXkNkA8UeMOJduIZDzbYu2uOk1jTyov08OVSEUkX3Fb0UlSp3UMYsXEMO63PuJSO8eLvpGkqVpU0zGN753UrjelLKVu6YXd-MaRc6IKMQI9RTydTLlG3Fdd5xIrD3Vp8jcOCags3ev/s1600-h/cotton_red.jpg"></a> <p>Don't be afraid to carry your Pouchee alone either. When I was at the Professional Organizer's Conference a couple of weeks ago I saw a lady doing just that and she looked fab! They come in both a cotton material and a swanky leatherette and you will absolutely not believe the color selection, it's awesome. Seriously this product is cool and it gets a big thumbs up from me.</p><p>Sandy was so nice to totally increase my cool factor by introducing me to this product. Now she wants to do the same with one lucky reader here today. Sandy is giving away a hot pink cotton Pouchee to one of you!!!<br /></p><a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi-cMFlhS2p0N5bSKXUnfYOwdN7l1LOyJJpMaTJr_0XlPi7juXOYeTeAIWHf3-xN4XCdVYO0bpiEmngsiEyO6oVKNhu5jcZ8nC5gqfVvNQJVh9h39hFwaJ8n8q4Xrzni_qDb1J8pqDDmToi/s1600-h/6.jpg"><img style="margin: 0px auto 10px; display: block; text-align: center; cursor: pointer; width: 150px; height: 100px;" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi-cMFlhS2p0N5bSKXUnfYOwdN7l1LOyJJpMaTJr_0XlPi7juXOYeTeAIWHf3-xN4XCdVYO0bpiEmngsiEyO6oVKNhu5jcZ8nC5gqfVvNQJVh9h39hFwaJ8n8q4Xrzni_qDb1J8pqDDmToi/s400/6.jpg" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5273583674123166834" border="0" /></a><p>Leave a comment by Monday night (Dec 1st) at 6:00 pm PST and you too just might be sporting some new organized coolness in the very near future :)</p><p>If you'd like to purchase a Pouchee of your own or for a Christmas gift, you can do so easily enough by visiting Sandy's site, <a href="http://organizewithsandy.com/pouchees.html">Organize With Sandy</a>.</p><p><br /></p><p><img class="centered" alt="post signature" src="http://designsbysummer.googlepages.com/orgjunkiesiggy.jpg" /></p>Laurahttp://www.blogger.com/profile/15867964298149410340noreply@blogger.com191tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-1638620827152997318.post-18105651297415349392008-10-16T08:41:00.000-07:002008-10-19T19:34:16.461-07:00The Couponizer<p>I've been wanting to do a review of <a href="http://www.profcs.com/app/?af=719792">The Couponizer</a> for awhile now. I purchased it quite some time ago and was very pleased with this coupon system and the fact that it comes complete with everything you need to get your coupons organized today in order to start saving money immediately.</p><p style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://www.profcs.com/app/?Clk=2403156"><img style="width: 176px; height: 177px;" src="http://www.thecouponizer.com/couponizer%20banner.JPG" alt="" border="0" /></a></p><p style="text-align: left;">Here is a list of what is included:</p><ol><li><a href="http://www.profcs.com/app/?af=719792">The Couponizer</a> - a wire bound booklet with 22 pockets and 3 plastic sleeves for storing grocery and other coupons as well as gift cards.</li><li>Your Guide to Smart Savings! - a guide by Amy Bergin, the creator of <a href="http://www.profcs.com/app/?af=719792">The Couponizer</a> that includes instructions on using the system as well as tips on smart spending, using coupons and the history of coupons.</li><li>CoupStacker - a pre-sorting mat with categories that match the pockets in the Couponizer. A real time saver when clipping!</li><li>CoupTracker - a list pad for tracking your savings and spending.</li><li>Shopping List</li><li>Scissors</li><li>Durable clear plastic carrying bag</li></ol><div style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://www.profcs.com/app/?Clk=2242449"><img src="http://www.thecouponizer.com/COUPON4_169x171.gif" alt="" border="0" width="169" height="171" /></a><br /><br /><div style="text-align: left;">I love that everything is included and I love that it is so easy to use. How many times have you gone to the store only to realize you didn't have your coupons with you or just didn't feel like standing there sorting through them all. How many dollars could you have saved?<br /><br />Coupons are big business these days and provide an excellent way to reduce your grocery budget in hard economic times. With coupon systems like this one it really couldn't be simpler. You gather all your coupons together and then do a quick sort using the sorting mat that is provided and in no time your coupons are organized by category making it fast to find the one you are looking for when you need it. And because <a href="http://www.profcs.com/app/?af=719792">The Couponizer</a> comes with it's own little carrying case you can conveniently leave it in your vehicle so it's available when you hit the grocery store.<br /><br />For a limited time and as supplies last, Amy is also including FREE, with each <a href="http://www.profcs.com/app/?af=719792">Couponizer</a> system purchased, an amazing book by well-known author and television personality, Stephanie Nelson, otherwise known as the Coupon Mom (you may have seen her on Oprah recently). This 154 page book is called The Greatest Secrets of the Coupon Mom and believe me when I say this book is detailed. Everything you could possibly want to know about couponing is in this book.<br /><!--Begin---><br /><div style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://www.profcs.com/app/?Clk=2403150"><img src="http://www.thecouponizer.com/2170_COUP1_468x60.gif" alt="" border="0" width="468" height="60" /></a><br /></div><br /><img src="http://www.profcs.com/app/?Imp=2403150" border="0" width="0" height="0" />Finally I want to share something else that sealed the deal for me that this is an exceptional company. When I ordered my <a href="http://www.profcs.com/app/?af=719792">Couponizer</a> there was a problem with the shipping (due to living in Canada) and I ended up paying an unnecessary extra $20.00 in customs fees. I was disappointed and immediately emailed them to explain what had happened. Amy herself emailed me back right away and was so apologetic and didn't even hesitate to reimburse the extra charge I paid. I appreciated that I wasn't given a hassle and the personal friendly service shown to me meant a lot. What a class act in my book!<br /><br /><a href="http://www.profcs.com/app/?af=719792">The Couponizer</a> sells for $19.95 and in my opinion is worth every penny, especially if you have access and are trying to keep track of many coupons at once. It is the first shopping system to offer more than just a holder for coupons, but it is instead a whole system of tools to enable consistent savings.<br /><br />It just doesn't get any better than that!<br /><br /></div></div><p><img class="centered" alt="post signature" src="http://designsbysummer.googlepages.com/orgjunkiesiggy.jpg" /></p><p><br /></p><br /><!--Begin---><br /><br /><img src="http://www.profcs.com/app/?Imp=2403156" border="0" width="0" height="0" /><br /><!--End---><br /><br /><!--Begin---><br /><br /><br /><img src="http://www.profcs.com/app/?Imp=2242449" border="0" width="0" height="0" /><br /><!--End--->Laurahttp://www.blogger.com/profile/15867964298149410340noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-1638620827152997318.post-6319594478842772032008-08-13T19:14:00.000-07:002009-02-01T15:53:09.538-08:00List Plan It<span style="font-style: italic; color: rgb(51, 51, 255);">Updated: This giveaway is now closed. Congratulations to our winners, Jessica from </span><a style="font-style: italic; color: rgb(51, 51, 255);" href="http://www.lifeasmom.com/">Life as Mom</a><span style="font-style: italic; color: rgb(51, 51, 255);"> and Fenella from <a href="http://owen-brando.blogspot.com/">Owen & Brando</a>!!</span><br /><br />Are you feeling overwhelmed with life?<br /><br />Are you having trouble remembering everything you have to do with so much on the go?<br /><br />Are you stressed?<br /><br />Then maybe it's time for what I affectionately call a brain dump.<br /><br />Take all that information that you have swirling around in your head to do, to make, to take, to go, to buy, to schedule, to plan and get it all down on paper. Once it's down on paper you don't have to exhaust yourself trying to remember it all anymore.<br /><br />Lists are the ultimate brain dumping tool. Rather than having one great big running list of everything though why not have a variety of lists to help you group and organize the various tasks you have to accomplish.<br /><br />Yet maybe the thought of creating all those lists seems overwhelming in itself to you.<br /><br />Not to worry because Jennifer of <a href="http://www.listplanit.com/affiliates?refer=20080125">List Plan It</a> can help you with that.<br /><br /><a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="http://www.listplanit.com/affiliates?refer=20080125"><img style="margin: 0px auto 10px; display: block; text-align: center; cursor: pointer;" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgbvjNK3PZyfvQwilpcq_XvkSr4HTurJ13WxPQ6Ua51QCkTDYv_cXZ9Vki9llXWBG_Fpg7BijzR0EQ8l65rCRYk0BHErNp5iE93c9GkXpJREgaMcbDA6Xql3bBDq9kHvFqRLawzhmd5z2uP/s320/listplanit125125button1.gif" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5234191634211616418" border="0" /></a>With a <a href="http://www.listplanit.com/affiliates?refer=20080125">membership to this site</a> you will never want for another list again. My gosh there is a directory of <span style="font-style: italic;">over</span> 300 printable lists and planning pages!! Every list imaginable to help you get organized, now that's what I call service.<br /><br />The membership fee for a three month subscription, which allows you access to all these lists, is only $9.95. That's a great deal. However if you'd rather not commit to a 3 month subscription Jennifer also offers another great option.<br /><br />Downloadable ePlanners group multiple lists in convenient category packages for you for only $4.95 each. For instance if you're only interested in lists to do with the organizing and managing of your home you could simply download the Home ePlanner and have access to all the applicable home lists instantly. Easy as that!<br /><br /><a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="http://www.listplanit.com/affiliates?refer=20080125"><img style="margin: 0px auto 10px; display: block; text-align: center; cursor: pointer;" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhEiEg-AlT-giJp8C7JbW1Ejztlyrr5_jtPc6y1pMGk5RaXFIdsUcY0JP3MUns_dSxMWKE8LLjPOBWb6zlg_MCawyastUqLq5DBnfwfJZvOfjU3hCVPp_nHbfE8asOOSvy2kL_K9g_Mjhkh/s400/listplanit46860banner1.gif" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5234208168243708914" border="0" /></a><br /><a href="http://www.listplanit.com/affiliates?refer=20080125">Jennifer's lists</a> are easy to use and concise and I can't recommend them more highly for managing your house, your family and your life.<br /><br /><div style="text-align: center; color: rgb(51, 51, 255);"><blockquote><span style="font-size:130%;">I'm happy to announce that TWO lucky readers will each win a 3 month subscription just by commenting on this post by Monday, August 18th at 6:00 pm pst. Good luck!!</span></blockquote></div><br /><br /><div style="text-align: center;">Have you had a brain dump lately?<br /><br /><span style="color: rgb(0, 153, 0);">THIS GIVEAWAY IS NOW CLOSED.</span><br /><br /><br /></div>Laurahttp://www.blogger.com/profile/15867964298149410340noreply@blogger.com200tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-1638620827152997318.post-84577008335312315972008-07-23T07:35:00.000-07:002009-02-01T15:42:36.769-08:00The Organized & Inspired Scrapbooker<span style="font-style: italic; color: rgb(0, 0, 153);">Updated: The winner is <a href="http://austellfamily.blogspot.com/">The Austell Family</a>!</span><br /><br />I have always tended to be more concerned about the functional when it comes to organizing and not so much the fabulous. It wasn't until I started reading Aby Garvey's blog, <a href="http://www.creativeorganizing.typepad.com/">Creative Organizing</a>, that I realized that those two things can in fact go hand in hand. Aby inspires me not with expensive organizing solutions but inexpensive ones that have been "touched up" with simple organizing supplies.<br /><br />So when given the opportunity recently to read Aby's new book, <a href="http://shop.simplify101.com/The-Organized-and-Inspired-Scrapbooker-p/s101ois.htm">The Organized & Inspired Scrapbooker</a>, I jumped at the chance.<br /><br /><a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="http://shop.simplify101.com/The-Organized-and-Inspired-Scrapbooker-p/s101ois.htm"><img style="margin: 0px auto 10px; display: block; text-align: center; cursor: pointer;" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi2aSVFxNp0tBgIrz9LD5o2Q7ljA3D-2nuqax2V-eMGtXZ3TrcNTD7WOrTEON4Ir9ncQ-1YOEVGzF_FETbIZviF8j5Da4rfsuyQBIzASwyfO9uyCRvElMkhb4h11hosWMqEo7jBbXttuKIQ/s400/S101OIS-2T.jpg" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5226220553789380802" border="0" /></a><blockquote>Overwhelmed by creative clutter? With 26 years of combined experience, professional scrapbooker Wendy Smedley of Simple Scrapbooks and professional organizer Aby Garvey of simplify 101 will guide you through the process of creating your very own organized and inspired workspace. Overflowing with tips, quizzes, projects, and inspired scrapbook spaces, <span style="font-weight: bold;">The Organized & Inspired Scrapbooker</span> will help you define your scrapbooking approach and discover how to organize your stash in ways that support your hobby. Plus, you will learn from the beautiful spaces of Stacy Julian, Renee Pearson, and other inspiring scrapbookers.</blockquote><br />This book is by far the most beautiful book I have ever read. No kidding, the pictures are bright, colorful and just plain stunning. I was blown away. I'd love to just cut them all out and use them as art but that's probably not what Aby had in mind :)<br /><br /><a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhDAzRdoGeY_rAVoDfdPlWgC5lsG4pXSFceZiHPnzcD-VQbt4hPYmPGzNdCptgnxUwfsFMvYAdgbgNg9io-xMkWo1o4s_d0N85qVX-V8ROJoVD5aXPfPgF0k0htvTjIm1vBIYgB3NEIY3AH/s1600-h/img_5684.jpg"><img style="margin: 0px auto 10px; display: block; text-align: center; cursor: pointer;" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhDAzRdoGeY_rAVoDfdPlWgC5lsG4pXSFceZiHPnzcD-VQbt4hPYmPGzNdCptgnxUwfsFMvYAdgbgNg9io-xMkWo1o4s_d0N85qVX-V8ROJoVD5aXPfPgF0k0htvTjIm1vBIYgB3NEIY3AH/s400/img_5684.jpg" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5226238217227448082" border="0" /></a><br />The content is equally as delicious. Now to be honest I gave up scrapbooking in albums years ago however what I do enjoy doing is scrapbooking other things like composition books, pictures, gifts, etc. The nice thing about this book is, regardless of what <span style="font-style: italic;">kind</span> of scrapbooker you are, it aids you in creating a functional AND fabulous workspace (no matter how big or small) designed to meet both your vision and your goals.<br /><br /><blockquote>The more aware you are of the reasons you scrapbook, the easier it is for you to navigate through all the choices you face: which photos to use, which products to buy, how to organize your stuff, what stories to tell, and so on. Identify what truly inspires you and drives you and it will become your ultimate filter, laying the foundation for everything else. You can easily eliminate clutter by cutting out the supplies and ideas that get in the way of what you really want to accomplish.</blockquote><br />Doesn't that sound exciting?! The book then goes on to help you do just that and even comes complete with a workbook (found in the pocket on the inside back cover) to help you pull it all together. You'll fill out short quizzes that will inspire you to create real and lasting change in your scrapbook space!<br /><br /><a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjoqHnKCArw9Ktuyp5NqG_KmZUcYw9qrR-udK187N56oEB4jXtGAC4mSMrE8QN7DiRGQ7tJZLLmORQ0rr3MN-TPGoSWSZWSEQLnZPCJk4ADK6kckykGgvQBmbbWJwlLgvLkrQzRM_aaUMn3/s1600-h/craft_cabinet_019.jpg"><img style="margin: 0px auto 10px; display: block; text-align: center; cursor: pointer;" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjoqHnKCArw9Ktuyp5NqG_KmZUcYw9qrR-udK187N56oEB4jXtGAC4mSMrE8QN7DiRGQ7tJZLLmORQ0rr3MN-TPGoSWSZWSEQLnZPCJk4ADK6kckykGgvQBmbbWJwlLgvLkrQzRM_aaUMn3/s400/craft_cabinet_019.jpg" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5226238806276417346" border="0" /></a><br />Section 1 ~ walks you through the eight components of a scrapbook and offers specific organization and storage solutions for each element<br /><br />Section 2 ~ gives you an up-close look at the workspaces of a few successful and productive scrapbookers. Plus you'll learn how to select and incorporate the right organizing strategies for your space and your lifestyle.<br /><br />Section 3 ~ you'll roll up your sleeves and get to work on inspiring projects for your workspace. Instructions to make the following are included:<br /><br />Album Labels<br />Mini Quote Book<br />Photo Checklist<br />Mini Artwork Display<br />Journal Kit<br />Inspiration Statement Board<br />Magnetic Tin Labels<br />Seasonal Photo Box and dividers<br />Get-out-of-a-Rut Jar<br />Workspace Design File<br /><br /><a href="http://shop.simplify101.com/The-Organized-and-Inspired-Scrapbooker-p/s101ois.htm">The Organized & Inspired Scrapbooker</a> is indeed inspiring with it's step-by-step instructions and amazing visual impact which literally provides you with hundreds of organizing solutions in pictures for all your scrapbooking needs. From an organizer's point of view I definitely can't recommend this book enough.<br /><br />And I'm so excited that Aby has offered to giveaway a copy of her book to one of you as well. Please leave a comment on this post before Monday, July 28th, 6:00 pst for your chance to win. Please also make sure you leave a way for me to get in touch with you. Thanks and good luck!!<br /><br /><span style="color: rgb(102, 0, 204);">GIVEAWAY NOW CLOSED</span><br /><br /><p><img class="centered" alt="post signature" src="http://designsbysummer.googlepages.com/orgjunkiesiggy.jpg" /></p>Laurahttp://www.blogger.com/profile/15867964298149410340noreply@blogger.com196tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-1638620827152997318.post-8826962109182129422008-07-14T18:45:00.000-07:002008-12-08T14:27:10.161-08:00Meet the Organize It Mom!Laurieann is a Professional Organizer turned WAHM mom who saw a need and set out to fill it. Her site, <a href="http://www.organizeitmom.com/index.html">Organize It Mom</a>, offers all sorts of products (that she creates herself!) to help you organize your days, your kids and your kid's toys.<br /><br />I had the opportunity to try a few of these products myself and hands down my favorite were the <a href="http://www.organizeitmom.com/toylabels.html">toy labels</a>. These are absolutely fantastic!<br /><br /><a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="http://www.organizeitmom.com/toylabels.html"><img style="margin: 0px auto 10px; display: block; text-align: center; cursor: pointer;" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEis0ztOfhrIkD-hN4BgsDJh8EjwbvCZe6Y9iQPTRWf54NDWPpc7F2ulFz0XPnW2c3ei0bpIQwvt3MbBBZ6S-ySKlgqVZ8nHA6wmeSd1rPd_6JVVam5jAGHf6aZvdfeb-d0Q4h7NyyNx44rq/s320/ToyLabelsLrg.jpg" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5223057256076444994" border="0" /></a>Each kit includes 18 toy labels laminated with removeable adhesive on the back of each label. The are bright and colorful and as you can see each one includes not only the word but a picture as well. In the picture below I've added the lego one to my son's lego storage container.<br /><br /><div><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEii6iRkugjQiOqdFCw5spH2X5d04BbaNu_AgC-vLeIg6tQiH90O-O37EAVsjjOVzyrdo4O07KEbHdjJwLaqYVL7tdF8S4x03JAlcoqDRwUAV8PernTwl72sI7KRGSjcDGtaOxFB5n-7Qgj5/s1600-h/100_0295b.jpg"><img id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5223051385159093378" style="margin: 0px auto 10px; display: block; text-align: center;" alt="" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEii6iRkugjQiOqdFCw5spH2X5d04BbaNu_AgC-vLeIg6tQiH90O-O37EAVsjjOVzyrdo4O07KEbHdjJwLaqYVL7tdF8S4x03JAlcoqDRwUAV8PernTwl72sI7KRGSjcDGtaOxFB5n-7Qgj5/s320/100_0295b.jpg" border="0" /></a>Now I know labels aren't really a necessity on the clear bins like above but it is especially helpful on the fabric bins like the ones I use in my playroom.<br /><br /><a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEisRiIROykIDAjxhhxiBWTU0GcDe83GTmvaoKkSddm95UzOuR5R4QFAYkLiuFRw4_pnYC26wEBg3mo4-Lt8Z09qIq7iIuYt2rjuGLYq3gtH43Ruc_ckoV1NPRZTqJR3MwtwXDJJazLxAUwr/s1600-h/100_8335a.jpg"><img style="margin: 0px auto 10px; display: block; text-align: center; cursor: pointer;" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEisRiIROykIDAjxhhxiBWTU0GcDe83GTmvaoKkSddm95UzOuR5R4QFAYkLiuFRw4_pnYC26wEBg3mo4-Lt8Z09qIq7iIuYt2rjuGLYq3gtH43Ruc_ckoV1NPRZTqJR3MwtwXDJJazLxAUwr/s320/100_8335a.jpg" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5223055846537315730" border="0" /></a><br />I'm definitely going to replace my labels with Laurieanns because hers will stand out so much better than mine do. I know it isn't too hard to make your own labels on your computer but what I know, as I know Laurieann does also, is that not everyone has the <span style="font-style: italic;">time</span> to do so. For $5.00 a set even the busiest of moms can have clearly labeled toy bins. It is so important for kids to be able to see quickly and easily what goes where so that we aren't setting them up for failure. So great!<br /><br />Another one of my favorite items that Laurieann makes is something that organizes your kids computer and TV time....coins called <a href="http://www.organizeitmom.com/mediamoney.html">Media Money</a>. Each little laminated coin designates 30 minutes of media time. I like that I can use these coins as rewards for good behavior or completed chores. Then when they use them to watch TV or play computer they turn them back into me. It's a great way to keep track of the time without it hurting your head trying to remember who did what when and for how long. They even come in different colors which is perfect for different kids.<br /><br />For menu planning enthusiasts she offers a <a href="http://www.organizeitmom.com/grocerylist.html">laminated menu planner as well as grocery list set</a> that serves to save on paper. The menu planner has room to menu plan breakfast, lunch and dinner and the grocery list is conveniently broken down into grocery store sections making it very efficient. Simply write on and wipe off.<br /><br />The <a href="http://www.organizeitmom.com/index.html">Organize It Mom's</a> charts , lists, cards and coupons are super fun and easy to use with professional quality colorful graphics. She has many other products listed on her site, too many to mention here, so you'll have to head on over and check out <a href="http://www.organizeitmom.com/index.html">her site</a> for yourself. I'm confident that you'll find something there to help you on your organizational journey. <br /><br />I'm also super excited to announce that Laurieann has joined on as one of <a href="http://orgjunkie.com/2008/01/org-junkies-monthly-organizing-round-up.html">Org Junkie's Monthly Organizing Round-Up</a> sponsors. Participating in the round-up gives you the opportunity to win an <a href="http://www.organizeitmom.com/index.html">Organize It Mom</a> prize package!<br /><br /><a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="http://www.organizeitmom.com/index.html"><img style="margin: 0px auto 10px; display: block; text-align: center; cursor: pointer;" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgxN31QQ2_o6HO4RvqGGsTWGHJ5SDSZcQXcRtZa6qtrB7TvuYqtT9VtANJgN4QHRdI5zpSoNbWIXWwn_jxqdWiG6zj-OQRrys4YJmbfQ_hpmk4tWIzxqivXuXxF_LwK8v8zuJ8OzXWSuhdF/s320/BookLaurieIconBig.gif" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5223071874456025090" border="0" /></a></div>Laurahttp://www.blogger.com/profile/15867964298149410340noreply@blogger.com12tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-1638620827152997318.post-29891381934638208032008-06-06T07:47:00.000-07:002008-12-08T14:27:10.314-08:00Lily On The Fly - A Menu Planning Resource - Enter to Win!<div style="text-align: center;"><span style="color: rgb(51, 204, 0); font-style: italic;">***********<br /><br /></span></div><div style="text-align: center;"><span style="color: rgb(51, 204, 0); font-style: italic;">Updated:</span> This contest is now closed. The winner is <a href="http://chksngr.blogspot.com/">chksngr</a>!!<br /></div><br /><div style="text-align: center;"><span style="color: rgb(51, 204, 0);">***********</span><br /></div><br />I recently had the opportunity to review an excellent menu planning resource. It's called <a href="http://www.lilyonthefly.com/">Lily On The Fly</a>. This particular product is different than any I've seen before for menu planning and is definitely beneficial for the visual person. This system centers around the magnetized card holder that can be displayed on your refrigerator. It includes 7 clear slots, one for each day of the week. What goes into these slots are the handy dandy menu planning recipe cards that are also provided. On the front of each card are three sections listing cooking instructions, one for the night before, in the morning and put it all together. The shopping list for each meal is right on the back on each card conveniently listed in seven general grocery store areas. Look how colorful it is:<br /><br /><a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjV0o6jrTVT0nvJr2tchw7V9GGDsA9zRrfujwOtK8rtLsDEPL-n8tQlTd_O6L0ExSQ5JacVhvSNz58eqIjmOiSyestKzinL8Q5iL5Wqed_LjCQKpRU6qbqee4Go78eEvI9zGXhM0A4ySfCS/s1600-h/prod1_lg.jpg"><img style="margin: 0px auto 10px; display: block; text-align: center; cursor: pointer;" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjV0o6jrTVT0nvJr2tchw7V9GGDsA9zRrfujwOtK8rtLsDEPL-n8tQlTd_O6L0ExSQ5JacVhvSNz58eqIjmOiSyestKzinL8Q5iL5Wqed_LjCQKpRU6qbqee4Go78eEvI9zGXhM0A4ySfCS/s400/prod1_lg.jpg" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5208780825670661218" border="0" /></a>Once you have selected 7 cards to put into the slots you have a complete menu plan for the week and when you turn the holder over you have a complete grocery list going down the back. You can then transpose the grocery list to a piece of paper to take to the store with you, take the whole holder with you or even just pull out the cards and bring them with you that way.<br /><br />Another option as <a href="http://www.lilyonthefly.com/">Lily On The Fly</a> suggests (and hence the name) is to keep the deck of cards in your purse and easily choose recipes right in the store as you think through your plans for the next few days, and what is on sale. I love how versatile it is!!<br /><br />My girlfriend struggles with traditional menu planning but really loves this system because for her she loves her recipes all in one spot rather than having to keep track of them from different sources such as various cookbooks or the internet. That's too much hassle for her, this system streamlines the process for her.<br /><br />The recipes look to be simple and easy to prepare and I love how each card shows a picture of the completed dish, a very nice touch! A list of the 36 recipes included in the starter kit can be found <a href="http://www.lilyonthefly.com/Order.htm">here</a>. The starter kit retails for $27.95 but for the month of June you can get 15% of your order by using the code "Welcome Summer". Additional recipes packs are also available.<br /><br /><a href="http://www.lilyonthefly.com/">Lily On The Fly</a> is giving away a <a href="http://www.lilyonthefly.com/Order.htm">Hearty Meals for Hungry Families Starter Kit</a> today to one lucky reader. Just leave a comment below by Tuesday, June 10th at noon pst for your chance to win. If you are not a blogger please be sure to also include a valid email address.<br /><br />Happy menu planning!!<br /><br /><p><img class="centered" alt="post signature" src="http://designsbysummer.googlepages.com/orgjunkiesiggy.jpg" /></p>Laurahttp://www.blogger.com/profile/15867964298149410340noreply@blogger.com236tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-1638620827152997318.post-2589512756956402962008-05-25T20:43:00.000-07:002008-05-25T20:51:50.110-07:00The winner is......<div style="text-align: center;">The winner of the <a href="http://www.internetpasswordorganizer.com/">Internet Password Organizer</a> is:<br /></div><br /><div style="text-align: center;"><span style="color: rgb(204, 51, 204);font-size:130%;" >Darcie!</span><br /></div><br /><br /><p><img class="centered" alt="post signature" src="http://designsbysummer.googlepages.com/orgjunkiesiggy.jpg" /></p>Laurahttp://www.blogger.com/profile/15867964298149410340noreply@blogger.com3tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-1638620827152997318.post-66007819395007960382008-05-20T22:20:00.000-07:002008-12-08T14:27:10.434-08:00Internet Password Organizer + Giveaway<a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiUJFMt1NZgXk0wp_1SgkcMPzD8TqfOiZ2n7N9WVXOrXhI5wo_isTcsE64igiC-ehcw4gf6ZrTVt_7ji4narm990YXoxY-sUkd5yt3zXs6rAUyjgZYieRVaATpjssQbLLawayOF-BW74oi_/s1600-h/6a00d8341c05c853ef00e550dc0b388834-800wi.jpg"><img style="margin: 0px auto 10px; display: block; text-align: center; cursor: pointer;" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiUJFMt1NZgXk0wp_1SgkcMPzD8TqfOiZ2n7N9WVXOrXhI5wo_isTcsE64igiC-ehcw4gf6ZrTVt_7ji4narm990YXoxY-sUkd5yt3zXs6rAUyjgZYieRVaATpjssQbLLawayOF-BW74oi_/s400/6a00d8341c05c853ef00e550dc0b388834-800wi.jpg" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5202697078743361618" border="0" /></a><br />I received the <a href="http://www.internetpasswordorganizer.com/">Internet Password Organizer</a> in the mail some time ago and I must be honest and say that I was a little skeptical about it at first. You see I already had a little notebook that I kept beside my laptop with all my passwords written in. I thought I was on top of it yet as I added more and more passwords to my notebook I was increasingly getting more and more frustrated trying to find the passwords that I needed. I do try to often use the same password but in many instances it just isn't possible. I also keep my business and personal emails and passwords completely separate which often creates many more username/password combinations than I have the brain capacity to remember.<br /><br />However I really didn't know <span style="font-style: italic;">how</span> time consuming all that page flipping in my little red notebook was until I started to use the <a href="http://www.internetpasswordorganizer.com/">Internet Password Organizer</a>. You see what make the Internet Password Organizer so special is that it is alphabetized and that my friends makes me very, very happy! I am saving all sorts of time and hair pulling craziness now.<br /><br />The <a href="http://www.internetpasswordorganizer.com/" target="_blank">organizer</a> has a spiral binding that allows the book to open flat and also includes reinforced A-Z tabbed dividers with two letters per tab. Each space has room to record the webpage, username, password and notes. Normally the organizer sells for $19.99 but right now they have a 20% off Father's Day promotion going on when you use the coupon code "Dad".<br /><br />This week I am also giving away a copy for one lucky reader! All you have to do is leave a comment on this post before Friday, May 23rd 11:59 pm pst to be entered. If you don't have a blog please remember to include your email address.<br /><br />Good luck!<br /><br /><p><img class="centered" alt="post signature" src="http://designsbysummer.googlepages.com/orgjunkiesiggy.jpg" /></p>Laurahttp://www.blogger.com/profile/15867964298149410340noreply@blogger.com82tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-1638620827152997318.post-60048687293944359392008-04-15T21:16:00.000-07:002008-04-15T21:20:12.775-07:00And the winner is........<div style="text-align: center;">I'm pleased to announce the winner of the book <a href="http://orgjunkiereviews.blogspot.com/2008/04/complete-guide-to-getting-and-staying.html">The Complete Guide to Getting and Staying Organized</a> is:<br /></div><br /><div style="text-align: center;"><span style="color: rgb(204, 51, 204);font-size:130%;" >BrendaS (cornfreelady)<br /><br /><span style="font-size:100%;"><span style="color: rgb(0, 0, 0);">Congratulations Brenda and Happy Organizing!</span></span><br /></span></div><br /><p><img class="centered" alt="post signature" src="http://designsbysummer.googlepages.com/orgjunkiesiggy.jpg" /></p>Laurahttp://www.blogger.com/profile/15867964298149410340noreply@blogger.com2tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-1638620827152997318.post-57803113542237233842008-04-09T07:59:00.000-07:002008-12-08T14:27:10.550-08:00The Complete Guide to Getting and Staying Organized plus a giveaway!As you know organizing is a passion of mine so I'm sort of embarrassed to admit that up until I started my blog I had never read an organizing book. I had no idea so much organizational goodness existed. Now one of the perks I have is the opportunity to review some of this goodness for you. The book I'm discussing today is called <a href="http://astore.amazon.com/imanorgjun-20/detail/0736920749">The Complete Guide to Getting and Staying Organized</a> by Christian author, <a href="http://karenehman.com/home/?page_id=2">Karen Ehman</a>.<br /><br /><br /><a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="http://astore.amazon.com/imanorgjun-20/detail/0736920749"><img style="margin: 0px auto 10px; display: block; text-align: center; cursor: pointer;" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj4Ifu1RnIyIVX9z9D5P51-RCKFxjyBjCPsqWpCaSqpqnvOKG8F3dhu8MbzrbwVyy9xj1fKRwEQ5pP8gQsmR03bvwTRxi5QrVZwiFRq5BL7bvxsYmxgyPO1T-2r5K_vfNQPMX33w47Tinv8/s400/51k7hkwb-tl_aa240_.jpg" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5187261623970704242" border="0" /></a><br />I'm not even going to beat around the bush on this one. I LOVED this book! This is not a book that talks down to you and makes you feel completely inadequate for not being organized. Not. At. All. Reading this book is like chatting with a girlfriend as she lovingly and gently shows you how to efficiently take care of the "have tos" so you have more time for the "want tos" - unhurried time with your husband, your children, your friends, and your God.<br /><br />Karen's step by step approach to organizing not only gives you practical guidance on how to de-clutter your "stuff" but more importantly your life including schedules, commitments, priorities and routines. Karen covers it all in this book, she even has a whole chapter devoted to taming the paper clutter and another whole chapter dedicated to menu planning which is so important.<br /><br />Here is a complete list of the book's table of contents:<br /><ol><li>Being Organized Means Being Prepared</li><li>Finding Your Organizational Personality</li><li>Kicking Out the Clutter</li><li>Maximizing Efficiency in Every Room</li><li>Combating Overcommitment</li><li>Taking Control of the Clock</li><li>Putting Paper in Its Place</li><li>Menu Planning and Shopping Strategies</li><li>Now You're Cookin'! (recipes, yay!)</li><li>Maintaining Your Home's New Order<br /></li><li>Taking It Home, Making It Yours</li></ol>I loved how she included a chapter on the maintenance part of organization. This is so crucial to any organizing success and I agree with Karen when she says "don't fall for the myth that once you organize your home, it will stay that way forever". Organizing is definitely an ongoing <a href="http://orgjunkie.com/2007/06/how-to-get-organized-follow-these-process-steps.html">PROCESS</a> that requires you to regularly re-evaluate and re-adjust your plan according to the season of the year or the season of your life.<br /><br />I recently had the opportunity to ask Karen some questions that I'd like to share with you now. Karen's answers are in purple.<br /><br /><div style="text-align: center;">****************<br /></div><br /><span style="font-style: italic;font-family:Arial,Helvetica,sans-serif;" >Your book is so great and such an encouragement to women. What made you want to write a book on organizing?</span><br /><span style="font-family:Arial,Helvetica,sans-serif;"><br /><span style="color: rgb(102, 51, 255);">I was actually hesitant to write a book on organizing. The last thing women need is a "My home and life are perfect and here's how yours can be too!" book. Often organizational books actually make women feel discouraged because, if they aren't living the same style life as the author, the methods they tout won't work. So, I decided that if I was to write a book, it would be one that would take into account personalities, lifestyles and children. Then it would walk women through how to set the bar where they'd like and to come up with a plan of attack that works for them.<br /><br /></span><span style="font-style: italic;">Your teenage daughter's words of wisdom are sprinkled throughout the book. She seems very organized herself. You describe her as a formerly messy kid turned mostly tidy teenager. Can you explain how this transformation came to be?</span></span><span style="font-family:Arial,Helvetica,sans-serif;"><br /><br /><span style="color: rgb(102, 0, 204);"><span style="color: rgb(102, 51, 255);">Well, first I tried screaming, yelling, grounding, threats...all to no avail. She was a pre-teen girl with lots of "stuff", stuff she liked to display. Her room was off of our living room and I grew tired of the piles and junk. She grew tired of me nagging all of the time. And she felt that when I attacked her stuff, I was attacking who she was as a person. We came to a compromise and bought some cool baskets, and bins where she could stash her stuff. And, I also pulled a makeover on her room for her 13th birthday--totally retro and lime green and orange. It motivated her to want to keep it looking nice. Since then she has grown into a very tidy and organized girl!!</span><br /></span><br /><span style="font-style: italic;">In the very first chapter you mention that being organized boils down to being prepared. Can you tell us why?</span></span><span style="font-family:Arial,Helvetica,sans-serif;"><br /><br /><span style="color: rgb(102, 51, 255);">Life seldom happens the way we want it to. When we prepare in advance for what thing may occur, we can meet the challenges in a calm, collected way. Having a meal in the freezer for a friend who gets sick, taking a tote bag to the orthodontist's office filled with note cards, stamps and our address book so we can catch up on thank you notes, having you child's medical info handy for those ER visits etc.. I really think that being prepared is much more important than being neat!</span><br /><br /><span style="font-style: italic;">In your book you encourage women to avoid getting overwhelmed in their organizational efforts by focusing on just ONE area for a few weeks or months. Only once they have formed new habits in that area and the skills have become part of their regular routine should they move on to tackle another area. I couldn't agree more with this and am wondering what one area you feel women should concentrate on first and why?</span><br /><br /><span style="color: rgb(102, 51, 255);">I say tackle your piles and de-junk your home first. It will motivate you and give you a sense of calm. Then you can tackle other areas such as managing your time, planning your meals, shopping, laundry routines, etc... When our surroundings are de-cluttered and in order, we can think clearer.<br /><br /></span></span><div style="text-align: center;"><span style="font-family:Arial,Helvetica,sans-serif;"><span style="color: rgb(102, 51, 255);"><span style="color: rgb(0, 0, 0);">*********************</span></span></span><br /><div style="text-align: left;">You can find Karen through <a href="http://proverbs31.gospelcom.net/">Proverbs 31 Ministries</a> as well as her <a href="http://www.karenehman.com/home/">blog</a>. Her book is available for purchase through <a href="http://astore.amazon.com/imanorgjun-20/detail/0736920749">Amazon</a>.<br /><br />Thank you Karen for writing this amazing book as well as offering to give away a free copy to one of my readers. To enter simply leave a comment on this post (be sure to leave a valid email address) by Monday, April 14th at 11:59 pm pst and then I'll draw one random winner on April 15th.<br /><br />Happy Organizing!!<br /></div></div><br /><p><img class="centered" alt="post signature" src="http://designsbysummer.googlepages.com/orgjunkiesiggy.jpg" /></p>Laurahttp://www.blogger.com/profile/15867964298149410340noreply@blogger.com156tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-1638620827152997318.post-26937734136834421942008-02-25T19:45:00.000-08:002008-12-08T14:27:10.670-08:00Busy Body BookI've just recently had the opportunity to review the 2008 <a href="http://www.busybodybook.com/index.html">Busy Body Book</a>, a personal and family grid organizer. Back in January, on my other blog, I posted the <a href="http://orgjunkie.com/2008/01/calendar-and-planner-links.html">favorite calendars and planners</a> of some of my readers and this particular planner was my friend <a href="http://www.jennifersnapshot.blogspot.com/">Jennifer's</a> favorite.<br /><br /><a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiGqqizKkPEktnH81K7eYWjj1tyXPOibPWKe-jvUAqZ6S2hyphenhyphen3-BlXjSq4Z2eiGv5q9IEhXbtJfuSiGu8pgszcuWbaTjvRCrVBR1FCmpom-7xOBcjSVoPzjKYfaZyV2hyXKM3YKO-00yVGLN/s1600-h/inside_top.gif"><img style="margin: 0px auto 10px; display: block; text-align: center; cursor: pointer;" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiGqqizKkPEktnH81K7eYWjj1tyXPOibPWKe-jvUAqZ6S2hyphenhyphen3-BlXjSq4Z2eiGv5q9IEhXbtJfuSiGu8pgszcuWbaTjvRCrVBR1FCmpom-7xOBcjSVoPzjKYfaZyV2hyXKM3YKO-00yVGLN/s320/inside_top.gif" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5171133493541656338" border="0" /></a><br />As you can see this planner offers you the opportunity to schedule up to 5 family members in their own separate columns each week all on the same page. This could be extremely useful for families with kids constantly on the go with various activities. Another nice feature is the perforated "to do" sheets in the back.<br /><br />The only downfall with this calendar for me is that they don't include a "month at a glance" calendar at the beginning of each month. They do however give you a condensed 6 months at a glance at the beginning of the book.<br /><br />If you have been wanting to try this calendar out for yourself, now might be the right time because not only is <a href="http://www.busybodybook.com/index.html">Busy Body Book</a> offering their 2008 Stripes and Zigzag planners for 50% off but also their Fridge Grid Pads as well.<br /><br /><p><img class="centered" alt="post signature" src="http://designsbysummer.googlepages.com/orgjunkiesiggy.jpg" /></p>Laurahttp://www.blogger.com/profile/15867964298149410340noreply@blogger.com3tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-1638620827152997318.post-62794601544102654042008-02-18T20:42:00.000-08:002008-12-08T14:27:10.976-08:00Cabin CuddlerAwhile ago I reviewed the <a href="http://orgjunkiereviews.blogspot.com/2007/09/happy-traveler-family-gear-bag.html">Happy Traveler Family Gear Bag</a> from <a href="http://www.shareasale.com/r.cfm?B=100031&U=256885&M=14660">Family Travel Gear</a>. I was so blown away by the attention to detail in that product that I couldn't say no when they asked me to review another product for them. This one doesn't necessarily have anything to do with organizing but it is wonderfully efficient.<br /><br /><div style="text-align: center;">Meet the <a href="http://www.shareasale.com/m-pr.cfm?merchantID=14660&userID=256885&productID=457950002" target="_blank">Cabin Cuddler:</a><br /></div><br /><div><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhqFHvdSG8hN0XNP6zku3b4DN9FEgcCutHkke8dn2hhqjSR8U-89lr2fLugdyyR05xvbL_cVqZuMNL7dCcmoWxEpsfblQfbfjEniZyev7jVjot37UOrL_1moKkjWsBwys_Bsmuxb6GWdE0O/s1600-h/100_8583.jpg"><img id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5168547613991818994" style="margin: 0px auto 10px; display: block; text-align: center;" alt="" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhqFHvdSG8hN0XNP6zku3b4DN9FEgcCutHkke8dn2hhqjSR8U-89lr2fLugdyyR05xvbL_cVqZuMNL7dCcmoWxEpsfblQfbfjEniZyev7jVjot37UOrL_1moKkjWsBwys_Bsmuxb6GWdE0O/s320/100_8583.jpg" border="0" /></a>Finally a blanket designed for traveling! I don't know about you but being somewhat of a germaphobe myself I will not use the blankets and pillows supplied on an airline. I mean I just have my doubts that these things are ever washed. Thankfully I never have to worry about that anymore. The micro-fleece Cabin Cuddler blanket solves that problem with it's unique wrap-around design created to keep passengers warm even in the coldest airplane cabins.<br /><br />I absolutely can't say enough about the detail put into this product. I'm a details girl and I wish more companies would take the time to add the extra special touches to their products. The Cabin Cuddler, when not in use, folds all up into itself to create a pillow that conveniently fits into the matching reversible carrying case that is included with it. This case fits easily into carry on luggage but also has a handle if you'd rather carry it separately.<br /><br /><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgEPdqH7NU6o-Tt1HG3JeTAiRJtHuBtiqjFCtKvANhpkgXA3LJ3DbhxFqANnN_S7FtL0OUDOs5FBMqOS7BkyfCZyB7b2rwjwVYAlG19RmTta6_CRfdWwRcMBRUcVP88c_XtKF9g2384dg3i/s1600-h/100_8582.jpg"><img id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5168547382063584994" style="margin: 0px auto 10px; display: block; text-align: center;" alt="" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgEPdqH7NU6o-Tt1HG3JeTAiRJtHuBtiqjFCtKvANhpkgXA3LJ3DbhxFqANnN_S7FtL0OUDOs5FBMqOS7BkyfCZyB7b2rwjwVYAlG19RmTta6_CRfdWwRcMBRUcVP88c_XtKF9g2384dg3i/s320/100_8582.jpg" border="0" /></a><br />The carrying case also turns inside out to become a soft pillow case. This can then be used with airline pillows or you can use the blow up travel pillow that is included with each Cabin Cuddler. I love that they've thought of this, such a small thing that just makes me appreciate the product even more.<br /><br />I've just been using the product at home while I watch TV. One of my favorite features is the patented pocket that I can put my feet into to keep me warm. I love it! The Cabin Cuddler is available in two colors and is machine washable. It is also reasonably priced at $29.99. You can read more about it on the Family Travel Gear site <a href="http://www.shareasale.com/m-pr.cfm?merchantID=14660&userID=256885&productID=457950002" target="_blank">here</a>.<br /><br />Great stuff!<br /><p><img class="centered" alt="post signature" src="http://designsbysummer.googlepages.com/orgjunkiesiggy.jpg" /></p></div>Laurahttp://www.blogger.com/profile/15867964298149410340noreply@blogger.com13tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-1638620827152997318.post-58186395484789344902007-12-12T18:42:00.000-08:002008-12-08T14:27:11.365-08:001-2-3.....Get Organized!<a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="http://www.profcs.com/app/?af=721745"><img style="margin: 0px auto 10px; display: block; text-align: center; cursor: pointer;" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiRYTtA-mIUsIdTKAywQoSNLW0gRe_LjwZRTMwZySM1KDxVzgtdFUR0ip7U3UDsD0kuMCIioo01DzPRoef4oqecvj2IW-vhiY9Av5Ukp-O15XUKagKi3wum-81tUL4nM-s9CgagGE8vgEiG/s320/123GOlogo.png" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5159240252665326178" border="0" /></a>I know I've reviewed a few organizing books in a row now but I've got another great set to tell you about that I think you're going to like. Professional Organizer Beverly Coggins has created a <a href="http://www.profcs.com/app/?af=721745">1-2-3...Get Organized</a> series of seven mini books to help you organize your life one book at a time.<br /><br />The seven books are as follows:<br /><ul><li>Three Steps to Organizing your Child's Room</li><li>Three Steps to Decluttering</li><li>Three Steps to Organizing your Kitchen</li><li>Three Steps to Organizing your Office</li><li>Three Steps to Time Management for the Stay-at-Home Mom</li><li>Three Steps to Clever Cleaning</li><li>Three Steps to Time Management at the Office</li></ul>Each book consists of three main steps with each step offering plenty of tips and advice broken down into quick and easy to read points.<br /><br />I'll tell you what I love most about these books. Not only are they small but the plastic glossy pages are wonderfully durable making them perfect for throwing into your purse to take out and read whenever you are stuck in a "hurry up and wait" situation. I also love the colorful pages as presentation is very important to me.<br /><br /><a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="http://www.profcs.com/app/?af=721745"><img style="margin: 0px auto 10px; display: block; text-align: center; cursor: pointer;" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjy4tNOMUD3dFrJnrKWfFs8ypJc5FCmM2A89hqbF0mYt-LAHFlzrZyBqtTYO3P7lZtuuYIPZceeEUnlRKAMR2Ga3In0g20DEpFImwo5RE9oqOGOYvLmMt8vyIbaoM8FKb7pW_GUSWbuVb01/s320/minibooksall.png" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5159239612715199058" border="0" /></a>For those a little bit more ambitious and wanting to really get serious about getting organized she offers a workbook series that comes complete with checklists, questionnaires and templates on CD. Some of the titles include Three Steps to Downsizing to a Smaller Residence, Three Steps to Time Management for the Working Mom and Three Steps to Planning Dinner. These do-it-yourself guides are very thorough with Bev carefully walking you through each step of the process.<br /><br /><br /><a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="http://www.profcs.com/app/?af=721745"><img style="margin: 0px auto 10px; display: block; text-align: center; cursor: pointer;" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEif2kh58_q51QaJhyphenhyphenbufUgdk21uL74pOFjbSNFQ0hmoO2hvom_iW8KWG2aiTPw-n0HH8H2AtH7zb4GR_Pvb8005tug4lkOElBrhJ70YdHrWRoQOUgZD7sLW0G0QwczFOpp7OdKbAx5mEyme/s320/packagesdes.png" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5159239492456114754" border="0" /></a>Now I've saved the best for last. One of the other things Bev includes in some of her packages is a Hassle Free Dinners CD. This CD is a menu planners dream and you all know how I feel about <a href="http://orgjunkie.com/menu-plan-monday">menu planning</a>! It offers 52 dinner menus complete with step-by-step instructions and recipes along with coordinating color-coded weekly shopping lists. I am very impressed with how much work this must have been to put together especially since everything you need to put quick, nutritious, sophisticated meals on the table is included! She also didn't repeat an entree for the entire year either! Well done Bev!<br /><br />On the <a href="http://www.profcs.com/app/?af=721745">1-2-3...Get Organized</a> site you'll also find a page listing the February sales so if you are interested be sure to check that out first! Next week I'm going to be giving away a set of these mini books as part of a special organizing giveaway I'm doing so keep your eyes open for that over on <a href="http://orgjunkie.com/">I'm an Organizing Junkie</a> sometime on Monday.<br /><br /><p><img class="centered" alt="post signature" src="http://designsbysummer.googlepages.com/orgjunkiesiggy.jpg" /></p>Laurahttp://www.blogger.com/profile/15867964298149410340noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-1638620827152997318.post-37295642228390263392007-12-11T20:55:00.000-08:002008-12-08T14:27:11.508-08:00A Life Less Cluttered<div style="text-align: center;"><span style="font-style: italic; color: rgb(51, 102, 255);">Updated to add: Christine is offering free shipping on her book until December 31st!</span><br /></div><br /><div style="text-align: left;"><a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiMFARHnxCBL5AN9h_1-JQxmS1G-pyFvan7IeDH0HEtLsDRaNM-tP1nVx9eSDN_3nbasuEt9iCwmX9kXQtrwsENVBHVeXXVScz4A-wQd8EpcDlBtHJdF_4uvU-4VB5F4KCu21sr_oRSrOdL/s1600-h/gse_multipart34815.jpg"><img style="margin: 0px auto 10px; display: block; text-align: center; cursor: pointer;" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiMFARHnxCBL5AN9h_1-JQxmS1G-pyFvan7IeDH0HEtLsDRaNM-tP1nVx9eSDN_3nbasuEt9iCwmX9kXQtrwsENVBHVeXXVScz4A-wQd8EpcDlBtHJdF_4uvU-4VB5F4KCu21sr_oRSrOdL/s320/gse_multipart34815.jpg" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5142450856462226146" border="0" /></a>I'm happy today to review for you another organizing book although this one isn't your typical organizing book. <a href="http://www.organizeittoday.com/wst_page6.html">A Life Less Cluttered</a>, written by Professional Organizer Christine Rice, isn't an organizing "tips" book but rather a book that focuses on the characteristics necessary to getting and staying organized. Christine's book takes you on a journey through answering the "whys" of disorganization to exposing the traits common to highly organized people in order to aid you in adopting them for yourself and reaching your own organizing epiphany.<br /><br />I've always said that I'm not a born organizer. My organizing skills and abilities didn't develop overnight but were gradually acquired out of necessity, practice and a desire to lead a more simplified life. Christine feels the same way and she will also tell you that she wasn't born with the "organizing gene". She offers this encouragement in the very first chapter:<br /><br /><blockquote>Organizing doesn't always come naturally but with help it can become easier. This is where you need to let go of any lingering guilt you may have regarding your current disorganized status and what originally brought you to that state. You've always had the capability to learn, you just didn't have the guidelines to follow. That is, until now. Open yourself to learning at the highest level possible. Accept your new reality that you, too, can be more organized.</blockquote><br />Christine also offers one of the best definitions of what being truly organized means and it may surprise you:<br /><br /><blockquote>Life happens. It's not as if finally being organized brings with it a guarantee that your home or life will never again be turned upside down. The difference is when you are better organized you can more quickly remedy the situation when things are a little out of control. It means living an easier, less stressful lifestyle and being able to locate important papers or belongings at a moment's notice. It usually means there is nearly a place for everything and almost everything in its place most of the time.</blockquote><br />Did you get that? It isn't about being perfect! Amen to that!<br /><br />I found Christine's book absolutely refreshing and eye opening. I never thought to approach organizing in this manner. Not only does she explain in detail what the traits are of highly organized people are but she also shows you how to adapt and apply those traits to your own life and surroundings.<br /><br />This is one book I can't recommend more highly. It isn't heavy or complicated reading either because believe me most of those types of books I never end up finishing. This book just makes sense and is so uplifting and encouraging at the same time. I'm very impressed.<br /><br />Christine offers her book for sale on her website in both paperback and ebook. More information can be found <a href="http://www.organizeittoday.com/wst_page6.html">here</a>. Check it out for yourself, it just might change your life!<br /><br />You can also find Christine over at her blog <a href="http://www.christinerice.blogspot.com/">Organizational Enlightenment</a>.<br /></div>Laurahttp://www.blogger.com/profile/15867964298149410340noreply@blogger.com8tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-1638620827152997318.post-83792044242338127602007-11-20T16:35:00.001-08:002008-02-08T18:59:34.624-08:00And the winner is.......<div align="center">The winner of <a href="http://www.stephaniedenton.com/">The Organized Life</a> by Stephanie Denton is......</div><br /><div align="center">#14</div><br /><div align="center"></div><div align="center"><span style="font-size:180%;"><a href="http://31moredays.wordpress.com/">jynell</a></span></div><br /><div align="center"></div><div align="center">Congratulations Jynell, please email me your address!!<br /><br /><p><image class="centered" alt="post signature" src="http://designsbysummer.googlepages.com/orgjunkiesiggy.jpg"></p><br /></div>Laurahttp://www.blogger.com/profile/15867964298149410340noreply@blogger.com2tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-1638620827152997318.post-38421153161818105172007-11-15T13:23:00.000-08:002008-12-08T14:27:11.859-08:00The Organized Life and a giveaway!<a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgNTLqbw5SrLx10rGw1s7mtC5Ahf9gAQtCUVxAqEAVYwKi3Z8RhFT9R67bcuBANu_qJsp7ayPfm5qa5OP-kZN0e7naFDhYv9g8YalI3OxzBZ9_9pYKZAbGpr5myA8MnKP3BIb6axLBzaSbA/s1600-h/51QB2A7T9XL__AA240_.jpg"><img style="margin: 0px auto 10px; display: block; text-align: center; cursor: pointer;" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgNTLqbw5SrLx10rGw1s7mtC5Ahf9gAQtCUVxAqEAVYwKi3Z8RhFT9R67bcuBANu_qJsp7ayPfm5qa5OP-kZN0e7naFDhYv9g8YalI3OxzBZ9_9pYKZAbGpr5myA8MnKP3BIb6axLBzaSbA/s320/51QB2A7T9XL__AA240_.jpg" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5133181236967151266" border="0" /></a>Back in September I wrote about the book <a href="http://www.stephaniedenton.com/">The Organized Life</a><span style="text-decoration: underline;"></span> by Stephanie Denton that had been sent to me from <a href="http://organisingtips.blogspot.com/2007/08/book-review-organized-life-by-stephanie.html">Marcia</a> in South Africa. This book is making its way around the world and I was thrilled to have the opportunity to review it.<br /><br /><a href="http://www.stephaniedenton.com/">The Organized Life</a> is a lovely and simple book offering quick, easy-to-reference advice to help you take control of your clutter so you can live every day with less stress and more free time. The organizing tips in this book are straight forward and practical and are presented on colorful pages that are pleasing to the eye and easy to read. As I said before I really do love how it is written in short snippets that I can read in quick bursts as I have the time. The tips are conveniently compiled into categories making it easy to find tips relevant to whatever space you are tackling in your home at the time. Each category contains quotes, checklists and easy-to-follow guidelines for organizing every part of your life, including:<br /><br />Paper piles<br />Grocery shopping<br />Home office<br />Closets & clothes<br />Garage<br />Kitchen & pantry<br />Holiday shopping & storage<br />Photos<br />Children<br />Bedroom & bathroom<br /><br />Let me share a few tidbits from the book:<br /><br /><div style="text-align: center;"><blockquote>The key to fitting in a major undertaking is to realize it's nothing but the sum of several small tasks. Change your mind-set from "I have only fifteen minutes, I can't start anything," to "I have fifteen minutes, what one small piece of this project can I complete?" If an endeavor seems long in duration, break it down in your mind. Instead of swimming thirty laps, think of it as swimming ten laps three times.</blockquote></div><br /><div style="text-align: center;"><blockquote>Have one set of cleaning products stored in each bathroom so it's convenient to disinfect at any point in time.</blockquote></div><br /><div style="text-align: center;"><blockquote>Getting organized is not about getting rid of your memories. It's about making them more accessible.</blockquote></div><br />Here are some sample pages from the book so you can see just how fun the colors are. I know they are hard to read but if you want a closer look and to learn more about the author click on <a href="http://www.stephaniedenton.com/">over here</a>.<br /><br /><br /><a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiZ4mnYpxB4rG54rrBVcP6XXOP4ob0q6w1CtnO_5A2cXnX2OQxZAa3R6yk9JSVksDYc_plpKdIXpz99ip7NkMIJI8SuX2zETwVvjdz53n50StDmPxrVOcPAIC3gCQXjZ8Pl9ERH4_-2tSRM/s1600-h/pgs6-7-detail.gif"><img style="margin: 0px auto 10px; display: block; text-align: center; cursor: pointer;" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiZ4mnYpxB4rG54rrBVcP6XXOP4ob0q6w1CtnO_5A2cXnX2OQxZAa3R6yk9JSVksDYc_plpKdIXpz99ip7NkMIJI8SuX2zETwVvjdz53n50StDmPxrVOcPAIC3gCQXjZ8Pl9ERH4_-2tSRM/s400/pgs6-7-detail.gif" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5133201599407101618" border="0" /></a><br /><a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiWAheHlyZJJxahA-tmp7c7T2qzjhiqQtzeQlW8gwb9Q4Df7qbbXzz-HKxPJOiMkM0eiU9mMikY4a3tD9s7YCEaABXQmSGC93m5SxisdKwCuCrl_f7ZJXdR0eU761O-VphHH2jTa8-27arG/s1600-h/pgs22-23-detail.gif"><img style="margin: 0px auto 10px; display: block; text-align: center; cursor: pointer;" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiWAheHlyZJJxahA-tmp7c7T2qzjhiqQtzeQlW8gwb9Q4Df7qbbXzz-HKxPJOiMkM0eiU9mMikY4a3tD9s7YCEaABXQmSGC93m5SxisdKwCuCrl_f7ZJXdR0eU761O-VphHH2jTa8-27arG/s400/pgs22-23-detail.gif" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5133202497055266498" border="0" /></a><br />Suzanne of <a href="http://letstalkorganizing.blogspot.com/">Let's Talk Organizing</a> from Arizona was the originator of this fun little book excursion and you can follow the book <a href="http://letstalkorganizing.blogspot.com/search/label/The%20Organized%20Life">here</a>. I'm going to keep the trend going by sending it on to <a href="http://breathoflifeministries.blogspot.com/">Melissa</a> from Breath of Life. How did I pick Melissa you ask? Well on my previous post about the book Melissa wrote this comment that made me laugh when I read it:<br /><br /><blockquote><p style="text-align: center;">Everyone said they want to hear what you’ve got to say…I just want you to pass the book to me! It really does look interesting & useful!</p></blockquote><p></p><br />You've got it <a href="http://breathoflifeministries.blogspot.com/">Melissa</a>, the book will be on it's way to Virgina next week. It'll be fun to see where it goes from there.<br /><br />For the rest of you, <a href="http://www.stephaniedenton.com/">Stephanie Denton</a> has offered to giveaway an additional<span style="font-style: italic;"> </span>copy of her book to one of my readers. All you have to do is leave a comment on this post by Tuesday, November 20th at 12:00 pm and I'll announce the winner shortly thereafter. Winner will be selected by random generator.<br /><br />Good luck and thanks to Stephanie for a great book!!<br /><br />PS: I'll also be adding a copy of this book to the <a href="http://orgjunkie.com/2007/11/and-so-the-30-day-organizational-challenge-begins.html">30 Day Organizational Challenge</a> prize list. It's not too late to join!<br /><br /><p><image class="centered" alt="post signature" src="http://designsbysummer.googlepages.com/orgjunkiesiggy.jpg"></p>Laurahttp://www.blogger.com/profile/15867964298149410340noreply@blogger.com84tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-1638620827152997318.post-33528991158732976612007-10-14T18:23:00.000-07:002008-12-08T14:27:12.479-08:00Whomi ~ Planners that are fun AND functional!When <a href="http://www.whomi.com/index.html?SID=75a2d9e323756de15ebd7a33d7dd15f7">Whomi</a> asked me to review their calendars/planners for busy woman I was more than happy to do so. You see I use a central calendar in my kitchen but what I can never figure out is why most calendars have all that wasted space on the top. I mean I guess it's nice to have a picture there but what the Whomi <a href="http://www.whomi.com/products/calendar.html?SID=75a2d9e323756de15ebd7a33d7dd15f7">Color-Coded Family Calendar</a> does is use both the top and bottom of the calendar to provide more space for monthly activities. Who couldn't use more space? Especially space that is color-coded at that. The monthly planner has one big white space per day PLUS there are three different color-coded smaller spaces per day as well which means you can designate a different color per kid for instance. Now that's smart! The price is reasonable too at $13.99 each.<br /><br /><img id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5121368657594188130" style="margin: 0px auto 10px; display: block; text-align: center;" alt="" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEis0tTifxM8oYaDMsDvUzrJLPw0QENN2AxhtztAEKFb4RS2BG63gbbH4M2Nih3mWHuhBNXZ-5EtbsIsxrPhvuMqSttojdpEd5knW-AxBdr7_t3F-b-MNmvr3LhDghgzGZgVkIEAD9n6-lBu/s320/100_8093.jpg" border="0" /><br /><br /><img id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5122107469278511522" style="margin: 0px auto 10px; display: block; text-align: center;" alt="" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgySjq_gvTj2P7lkHevzxSVUaxiMV9Sad1-HAwhyphenhyphenQ6pVJApsS4l30aSQBdNwYgkvaH9W_VeddlVlj8gmFAuN_mgxY6y6MXMOGXDwTu8QBPczmrhCFst-TnRPW5eDbBlItwbWY-s8CWWqYeu/s320/calendar_open_2008.jpg" border="0" />Two other products I had the privledge of checking out was their Color-Coded Agenda and their What To Do Pad.<br /><br />The <a href="http://www.whomi.com/products/clarity.html?SID=75a2d9e323756de15ebd7a33d7dd15f7">Color-Coded Agenda</a> is similar to the bigger family planner just smaller, suitable for those who might appreciate a more portable calendar. This one comes in TWO sizes to meet the needs of busy mom's, original and compact. If you want something for your purse though I recommend the compact size as the original seems at bit heavy to me to carry around in your purse. These agendas are just so pretty too and that my friends is important, who wants to pull out an agenda that's ugly or boring. Being organized doesn't have to be all doom and gloom. Take a look at these pretty designs:<br /><br /><img id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5122111158655418834" style="margin: 0px auto 10px; display: block; text-align: center;" alt="" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhiR4vp6gJI_CYQeJIWLxTUiaX953DCB6q0osVFvAPJ4LFrOIFShqwhQtGMXmCmKLLR1z9TiBgjoQ8hiUnSGUnJ89IbEA_x56xAI0Wud_aKiTiKQggAS9FpEiSfCG01j8Ih0XWD30Pc1jWZ/s320/index_clarity_agenda.jpg" border="0" /><br /><br /><p>These agendas also come with a heavy duty plastic cover that all moms will appreciate especially if we keep one tucked in our purses where they tend to take a bit of a beating. </p><p><br /></p><p><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjwJk9MJjbS3CoxXUvAXWVr1oF5LkpS5AYFDXqr87u-_HV11aZAqHOK1aoPyv-04d3p9agsXplUZoiFXY_sRAKe5J3iBZbMGmX3Ky1YbNU1UecSnrlVSusbUv9tjnpvGk9-T_EANoWnmd2Q/s1600-h/100_8095.jpg"><img id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5121368782148239730" style="margin: 0px auto 10px; display: block; text-align: center;" alt="" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjwJk9MJjbS3CoxXUvAXWVr1oF5LkpS5AYFDXqr87u-_HV11aZAqHOK1aoPyv-04d3p9agsXplUZoiFXY_sRAKe5J3iBZbMGmX3Ky1YbNU1UecSnrlVSusbUv9tjnpvGk9-T_EANoWnmd2Q/s320/100_8095.jpg" border="0" /></a>Finally the <a href="http://www.whomi.com/products/todopad.html?SID=75a2d9e323756de15ebd7a33d7dd15f7">What To Do Pad</a> just makes list making FUN! That's it in the above picture on the left. It's a portable spiral-bound notebook with three separate color-coded pads designed to make maintaining lists simpler because it's divided by task and each sheet is perferated so you can tear off a sheet as you need to. I love stuff like this I really do. I'd especially like to try out the <a href="http://www.whomi.com/products/todowhenpad.html?SID=75a2d9e323756de15ebd7a33d7dd15f7">What To Do When Pad</a> as well.</p><p>Fun and functional makes me very very happy and I hope it does you as well!! </p><p>Thanks <a href="http://www.whomi.com/index.html?SID=75a2d9e323756de15ebd7a33d7dd15f7">Whomi</a>!</p><p><image class="centered" alt="post signature" src="http://designsbysummer.googlepages.com/orgjunkiesiggy.jpg"></p>Laurahttp://www.blogger.com/profile/15867964298149410340noreply@blogger.com4tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-1638620827152997318.post-10350375095351420662007-09-24T12:57:00.000-07:002008-12-08T14:27:12.976-08:00Bin BuddiesYou know what I admire? Creative people who see a need and fill it, making our lives just a little bit easier. That is exactly what Gretchen from <a href="http://www.paceasy.com/">PacEasy</a> has done with her fabulous and innovative product appropriately named Bin Buddies. Bin Buddies are a durable and washable insert for your household totes that offer handy pockets to keep everything tidy and organized for easy access. Bin Buddies come in various sizes depending on the size of tote you own.<br /><br /><p><img id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5113867531571462082" style="margin: 0px auto 10px; display: block; text-align: center;" alt="" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhpWdtjTXnq3MjKKF1kcDOJE5b3_PF28tgCX4nKOLcN_XDj9NpQ-3mTcEizpPw-n3Te_uXWV_TOJpatpGj-_daEUUk4oXTn4t3aP7o85mnr16zFadti4rU9KCnv2aAg94Ys68iVz1I7Bq9n/s320/100_7917.jpg" border="0" /></p><p>I admit when Gretchen first contacted me about trying out this product I was a bit skeptical. I didn't really understand at first what this product was going to do for me or how it was going to make my life better. It wasn't until I opened the package and saw how it worked and all the glorious pockets inside that the lightbulb went off. </p><p>I immediately knew what I was going to use this product for. In our playroom, the kids have a Rubbermaid tote that we use to store all the little indoor hockey sticks, lacrosse sticks and balls and balls of all sorts and sizes. I wish I'd remembered to take a picture of how it looked before. You have to imagine that the sticks didn't stand straight up and kept falling over and out and the little balls got buried at the bottom so the kids had to dump the entire tote to just to get one out. It was a headache but the gear was contained and so we lived with it. Until now.....<br /><br /></p><img id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5113863936683835282" style="margin: 0px auto 10px; display: block; text-align: center;" alt="" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgyQoSDbYNjJGSO6A__45IpQMvOckMQodIn_q9A1BjtXGaLMTwVvrAnqnc1TcCHbsapKntCfk1xGHoFId-HhXnq2MoNt62ek3A362QFTqIvgF-cncgypjgm4b9hiTN_7WxwFRiJlAGQn7UY/s320/100_7846.jpg" border="0" /><br /><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjwBblhpNHx4OLVmqU66exupa-BRD8EGuzRYIpeiMDp47UtD8SDFsvcMfnvokjOv4WYcqhPEEU4G9qszRdeKKv5NoedaEINlTb5vhcI_cSqcP_fFvGjsgYCaKvUw-WuUQtYjl8XZv6_3520/s1600-h/100_7844.jpg"><img id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5113864980360888226" style="margin: 0px auto 10px; display: block; text-align: center;" alt="" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjwBblhpNHx4OLVmqU66exupa-BRD8EGuzRYIpeiMDp47UtD8SDFsvcMfnvokjOv4WYcqhPEEU4G9qszRdeKKv5NoedaEINlTb5vhcI_cSqcP_fFvGjsgYCaKvUw-WuUQtYjl8XZv6_3520/s320/100_7844.jpg" border="0" /></a><br /><div><div><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjtwy0Yae4hW44j299vTE4r7V9xl9dcpcO4UKK0NPHsaTGx_5Ui-B5uljTDDa3UIZjTpuQ54ygsuTtO5XhrG0-0592a4dTd-xl795dNg5JEtsisGT-r-GMoGYLcQRdfdvl_ydpOxVt-N2tJ/s1600-h/100_7845.jpg"><img id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5113863584496516994" style="margin: 0px auto 10px; display: block; text-align: center;" alt="" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjtwy0Yae4hW44j299vTE4r7V9xl9dcpcO4UKK0NPHsaTGx_5Ui-B5uljTDDa3UIZjTpuQ54ygsuTtO5XhrG0-0592a4dTd-xl795dNg5JEtsisGT-r-GMoGYLcQRdfdvl_ydpOxVt-N2tJ/s320/100_7845.jpg" border="0" /></a> The Bin Buddie fit inside my tote perfectly and now offers plenty of pocket space for the sticks to stand up straight as well as pockets for the small balls. I really am very pleased with it how easy it was to assemble and the versatility of it. I also love the idea of using it for picnics or camping as well. We already use Rubbermaid totes for all our camping gear but this product will help organize it even further for us.</div><div></div><br /><div>Totes are an amazing storage tool.....<a href="http://www.paceasy.com/">Bin Buddies</a> with handy pockets make them even better!<br /><br /><p><image class="centered" alt="post signature" src="http://designsbysummer.googlepages.com/orgjunkiesiggy.jpg"></p><br /><p></p></div></div>Laurahttp://www.blogger.com/profile/15867964298149410340noreply@blogger.com10tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-1638620827152997318.post-43789103518361234032007-09-12T21:20:00.000-07:002008-03-03T20:24:15.196-08:00Happy Traveler Family Gear BagI am thrilled, just thrilled to introduce you to this next product. Anyone who has ever tried to travel with kids will appreciate this one. Back in July as I was packing to go on holidays for a month, I desperately looked for something that would be the ideal travel bag for the flight. I was flying with my under two son and I needed something that would accommodate MANY needs plus more. As you know when flying you are only allowed two carry-on bags. One of them for me was my laptop, the other one needed to carry everything else including diapers, wipes, snacks, baby blanket, baby stuffie, baby toys, sippy cups, my water, my purse, a book, sunglasses, camera, and the list goes on and on.<br /><br />Prior to leaving I pulled out every bag I owned (which happens to be quite a few since I'm always trying to find <em>the</em> one) and not one of them seemed adequate. I finally settled on one though and then proceeded to be extremely annoyed the entire flight when I couldn't quickly find or grab what I needed while holding my squirming, you can't make me cooperate, one and a half year old.<br /><br />I don't like to be annoyed.<br /><br />I simply don't have the patience for it.<br /><br />The success of travelling with babies and kids is based on organization. Organization requires a bag that stands upright on it's own, has multiple pockets for everything under the sun, meets airline requirements, and basically acts as my home on the go. Do you think I'm asking for too much? I assumed I was because if a bag like that existed I didn't know about it.<br /><br />UNTIL NOW....<br /><br /><center><a href="http://www.shareasale.com/m-pr.cfm?merchantID=14660&userID=256885&productID=457950007" target="_blank"><img src="http://www.familytravelgear.com/Merchant2/graphics/00000001/happy-traveler-2-150.jpg" border="0" /><br />Happy Traveler Family Gear Bag </a></center><br /><br />The bag of my traveling dreams has arrived....in bright red no less. <a href="http://www.shareasale.com/r.cfm?b=100031&u=256885&m=14660&urllink=&afftrack=">Family Travel Gear</a> is a company that understands the needs of traveling families. Of that I have no doubt. When the <a href="http://www.shareasale.com/m-pr.cfm?merchantID=14660&userID=256885&productID=457950007" target="_blank">Happy Traveler Family Gear Bag </a> appeared in my mailbox I open the package with anticipation hoping that I wasn't in for another mediocre bag to add to my collection. Frankly I was pretty skeptical. First thing I saw was the big pocket on front, and then another pocket, and then another one, oh and what's that, another pocket! The pockets don't end it seems and I instantly fell in love.<br /><br />THEN....I saw one pocket in particular and nearly wept with tears of joy. Ladies there is a pocket on the side of this bag.....are you ready for this....for the portable DVD player AND slots for the DVD's!! I'm seriously not kidding! I had a separate bag for the DVD player when I travelled and had one of my bigger kids carry it on but it was just one more thing to worry about.<br /><br />On the other side of this is an insulated pocket for sippy cups or bottles plus there is also a pocket for my camera, a pocket for my wallet and airline tickets, a pocket for my magazine and did I mention that the glorious front pocket includes a FULL BODY changing pad and numerous pockets for diapers, wet wipes holder, ointments and more. Oh.My.Word. All this AND it meets airline carry-on sizing requirements. Get out of town.....literally.<br /><br />And less you think this bag will just sit in the closet when not in use, think again. This beautiful bag of amazing possibilities can also be used as a back seat kid’s organizer/toy box and snack bag for car travel.<br /><br /><a href="http://www.shareasale.com/r.cfm?b=100031&u=256885&m=14660&urllink=&afftrack=">Family Travel Gear</a> doesn't just sell bags either. They are a family owned and operated business inspired by their personal travel experiences with their own children and sell many other travel products as well to make your life easier. They claim to personally test all of their products and you know what, after seeing this bag and what it means for all my organized future travels, I believe they do just that.<br /><br />Thank you <a href="http://www.shareasale.com/r.cfm?b=100031&u=256885&m=14660&urllink=&afftrack=">Family Travel Gear</a>!!<br /><br /><p><img class="centered" alt="post signature" src="http://designsbysummer.googlepages.com/orgjunkiesiggy.jpg" /></p>Laurahttp://www.blogger.com/profile/15867964298149410340noreply@blogger.com5tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-1638620827152997318.post-503056814839447062007-07-01T13:58:00.000-07:002008-05-07T09:02:50.874-07:00Organizing Bags<div align="left">So if you've read <a href="http://orgjunkie.com/">my blog</a> for any amount of time or well even just this week (lol) you know I have this <s>obsession</s> quirk about keeping all things similar contained in one place. As many of you know this isn't always easy when you have kids. I have noticed that as my kids get older their toys get smaller so in an effort to keep all those little pieces together I use a lot of ziploc baggies. I like them for a number of reasons some of which include; they set boundaries for the kids and make cleanup easier for them, they are clear allowing you to easily see what is inside and they come in a number of different sizes which is helpful. However there are some downfalls to the baggie idea. This first being that using plastic baggies is obviously not a great idea for small children for safety reasons and the other is that they don't take a lot of abuse and quickly can get worn out and have to be replaced. </div><div align="left"><br /></div><div align="left">So when Lara my Lazy Organizer friend asked if I wanted to review the <a href="http://laragallagher.com/bags/organizingjunkie/index.html">Organizing Bags</a> she designs I jumped at the opportunity because I had a feeling they were going to be right up my alley and I was right! Let me just tell you that these came in ever so handy last week when I completely went through and organized the kids rooms from top to bottom to make room for all the new Christmas toys. </div><div align="left"></div><br /><div align="left">I enjoyed these bags immensely for reasons similar to the baggie idea <em>plus</em> more:<br /><br />1. they work great for containing "like with like" </div><div align="left">2. they are clear on the front so you can see what is inside<br />3. they are durable and reusable<br />4. the zipper is on the side rather than the top which means that you can actually fit more inside since the inside stays the same size and doesn't get narrower at the top like a baggie does. It also means you can access items stored near the bottom quicker and easier (a plus for kids)<br />5. two sizes to choose from which is very nice<br />6. the bigger size bag has a handle - great for kids to carry around their toys (especially great for travelling) </div><div align="left">7. not a safety hazard<br /><br />Take a look at some of the ways I used them:<br /><br /></div><a href="http://photos1.blogger.com/x/blogger/6362/3022/1600/639646/100_5917.jpg"><img style="margin: 0px auto 10px; display: block; text-align: center;" alt="" src="http://photos1.blogger.com/x/blogger/6362/3022/320/535291/100_5917.jpg" border="0" /></a> <p></p><p align="center">to organize my son's pirate men collection </p><p><br /></p><p align="center"><a href="http://photos1.blogger.com/x/blogger/6362/3022/1600/37580/100_5915.jpg"><img style="margin: 0px auto 10px; display: block; text-align: center;" alt="" src="http://photos1.blogger.com/x/blogger/6362/3022/320/330241/100_5915.jpg" border="0" /></a>to organize my daughter's Barbie petshop collection </p><p><br /></p><p align="center"><a href="http://photos1.blogger.com/x/blogger/6362/3022/1600/435871/100_5918.jpg"><img style="margin: 0px auto 10px; display: block; text-align: center;" alt="" src="http://photos1.blogger.com/x/blogger/6362/3022/320/852391/100_5918.jpg" border="0" /></a>to organize my son's Klutz pirate ship building collection (this set didn't even come with a box so I was really happy to have this solution to keep all the pieces contained)</p><p><br /></p><a href="http://photos1.blogger.com/x/blogger/6362/3022/1600/210946/100_5733.jpg"><img style="margin: 0px auto 10px; display: block; text-align: center;" alt="" src="http://photos1.blogger.com/x/blogger/6362/3022/320/644710/100_5733.jpg" border="0" /> </a><p align="center"></p><p align="center">Finally I created this diaper changing kit to keep in my church bag along with my bible, church library books, snacks, etc. This really works for me because it means I don't also have to bring the diaper bag with me and now if I have to take my son out during the service I can just grab this bag (love the handle) and go and my two older kids can keep the church bag with them since it contains their snacks/books. </p><p align="left">To purchase these bags and to also see the different ways Lara uses her bags you can visit her site <a href="http://laragallagher.com/bags/organizingjunkie/index.html">here</a> or click on the link in my sidebar. Thanks for a great product Lara!</p><p><img class="centered" alt="post signature" src="http://designsbysummer.googlepages.com/orgjunkiesiggy.jpg" /></p>Laurahttp://www.blogger.com/profile/15867964298149410340noreply@blogger.com0