Thursday, November 28, 2013

HAPPY THANKSGIVING!


May you have a beautiful day filled with family and friends!

Turkeys are intelligent, gentle, sweet creatures who want to live just like you do.

Perhaps next year you could plan a turkey free celebration?!


Wednesday, November 27, 2013

Organizing Tip of the Week: SpringPad!


I've been organizing clients for 24 years and with the advent of productivity apps and computer programs I'm constantly asked which I like best.  I've found many of the most successful to be a bit too detail oriented.  If you bore me in the process you will surely not help my clients whose minds don't automatically gravitate to order.  If you have to spend a lot of time cross referencing then your actual organizing time gets eaten away by organizing tasks.  The very item meant to free you soon enslaves you. 

Now a productivity tool has me under its spell.  It has been described as the child Evernote and Pinterest would have if they got married. It's practical and visual. I'm just starting to learn the particulars and will share tips as the weeks go by.  I hope you will join me in using it to make 2014 our most successful year yet.  I'm delighted to share that I will be doing some fun projects with the SpringPad team.  While I get my feet wet please feel free to surf on over to www.SpringPad.com and see how you like it. Whether at home, traveling with your iPad or on your smart phone you can access your notebooks, cross reference information and add or delete whatever you wish.  

Last night I made private notebooks for the books I want to read, the movies I want to see and dedicated a notebook for all things Charlie, my 10 month old puppy.  (You expect him to be organized, right?)  Keep your notebooks private or share them with others.  Follow your favorites.  All of this practicality and fun while enjoying a visual presentation that's as stunning as you want to take the time to create.  I ask you: as we stare down Black Friday  and a New Year what more could we need to organize our resources and be sure we are on track?

Tuesday, November 26, 2013

Stocking Stuffer Monday




With Black Friday approaching I want to share The Animal Rescue Site with you.  Visit every day and click for free. The number of clicks will decide how much participating companies will donate that day.  I have a client whose computer is set to remind him to click the minute he opens his computer at work.  How's that for organized generosity?  The site also has an on line store where part of the proceeds of each sale go to help homeless pets.  

Stocking stuffer gifts are meant to be fun and you don't want to break the bank, right?  To spark your creativity I've posted 3 of the hundreds of wild, wonderful, wacky and useful items you can find for just a few dollars. Let's start in the kitchen, shall we?  I bet the chef on your list doesn't have a paw print muffin pan like this, does (s)he?  What about your daughter who is mad for all things dog or cat?  Gift her with this and you just might get some early morning muffins out of this deal!

I can't imagine any self respecting 'cat person' who wouldn't be delighted to start the day with a bit of joe or a spot of tea from this charming mug.  Who fits that description on your life? 




I happen to have these paw print paper clips in my office!  I stick them on documents (OK not those going to corporate offices) and wait for friends to exclaim: "Hey, this paper clip is a dog bone?!"  I just smile in delight.  Is there someone who needs a touch of whimsy in his office life?  Anyone who is overwhelmed with paper? These are useful and fun.  And they take up so little room you can keep on stuffin' that stocking with goodies! 



The Christmas stocking image is from Pinterest another great site to surf if you are in need of gift ideas.
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Seasonal Tip of the Week

My assistants ask me how I remain so calm in the face of chaos whether it's from a client who is terrified of the process or as we tackle a room that is filled with too much stuff.  I learned a long time ago that if I join someone in the space of fear we won't make any progress.  I have to silently invite them to my place of peace and calm. It works in organizing and it will serve you this week as you share time with family and friends.

A few too many glasses of wine and Aunt Edna may turn into a critical horror.  Uncle Joe may pull focus all evening by sharing the intimate details of his last medical procedure(s).  Your new puppy may get some turkey under the table from your dad and float his own brand of air freshener into the dining room. Life brings us upset.  Confronting upset with upset is how wars are started.

Remember why you are all gathered together.  Time and again return the focus to gratitude. More than how to organize the perfect dinner party is the glory of knowing how to keep relatives from rehashing old wounds or tumbling into bad behavior.  Take a few deep breaths when you start these days.  Meditate if you feel comfortable doing so.  Be the holiday energy you want to experience.

Sunday, November 24, 2013

Happy Thanksgiving!

Sometimes what needs to be organized isn't some random stuff in the physical world but rather our emotional responses to people and situations.  This Thanksgiving you may be with family, you may begin the day with a call from home or perhaps the family that drives you insane will be gathered in your head.  Long dead relatives can leave behind stinging words and painful memories that we relive with great devotion.

The best way to disengage is not to withdraw but to forgive. If you don't provide the habitual response the fire of discord may die of neglect.  Give it a shot this year.  What have you got to lose but hurt feelings, anger, disappointment and tears?  Trade this traditional drama for peace and contentment. My puppy Charlie and I wish you a day of love, laughter, great food and the best companions you could ever imagine.

Saturday, November 23, 2013

Main Course for Holiday Organizing Day Madness

This recipe comes from the Recipe Club at VegNews Magazine.  I have a soft spot in my heart for this publication because over a decade ago when I was just starting my writing career they asked me to contribute a few articles to a column they had at the time.  I learned it's much easier to write a book than a magazine article! This main dish is hearty, nutritious and of course as with all of my choices vegetarian i.e. cruelty free.

Wild Rice-Stuffed Squash with Chanterelles
Savory and complex, this meat-free main course will stun your holiday guests. A colorful stuffed winter squash makes the perfect centerpiece for your vegetarian Thanksgiving table. The combination of aromatic leeks and the nutty, truffle-like flavor of Chanterelle mushrooms creates a sophisticated and scrumptious stuffing that is then studded with cranberries, hazelnuts, and herbs. It can also easily be made gluten-free so that every friend and relative will be able to enjoy it. This is one recipe that you'll surely want to repeat year after year. For more incredible vegan holiday dishes, visit our 10 Sumptuous and Savory Thanksgiving Recipes on VegNews.com.
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Serves 6
What You Need:
1 medium-large winter squash (6 to 8 pounds)
3-1/2 cups light vegetarian broth
1-1/2 cups wild rice
2 tablespoons olive oil
4 cups sliced cleaned chanterelles
1 cup chopped leeks or scallions
1 cup minced onion
4 celery stalks, sliced
1/2 cup dried cranberries
1/2 cup chopped, toasted hazelnuts
1/2 teaspoon dried thyme
1/2 teaspoon dried marjoram
1/2 teaspoon salt, plus more to taste
Freshly ground black pepper to taste
1/3 cup nutritional yeast flakes
1/4 cup chickpea flour
2 tablespoons oat flour
2 tablespoons soy sauce
2-1/2 cups water
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What You Do:
1. Preheat oven to 400 degrees. Cut a “lid” off top of squash and scoop out seeds, scraping the interior well. In a baking pan, place squash with its lid on loosely, and bake for 1 hour, then check for tenderness. If squash isn’t done, cook a bit longer until softened.

2. In a medium pot over high heat, bring broth to a boil. Wash wild rice in a colander under running water. When broth boils, add washed wild rice, return to a boil, then cover and turn down to a simmer. Simmer for about 55 minutes, or until tender.

3. While wild rice cooks, in a large skillet over medium-high heat, heat olive oil. Sauté mushrooms, leeks, celery, and onions until tender and slightly browned. Add cooked wild rice, cranberries, nuts, herbs, and salt and pepper to taste. Pack stuffing into cooked squash and place in a shallow baking pan. Bake, loosely covered, for 45 to 60 minutes.

4. In a heavy saucepan over high heat, whisk nutritional yeast and flours together until they smell toasty. Remove from heat briefly and whisk in water, soy sauce, and 1/2 teaspoon salt. Return to high heat and stir constantly until gravy thickens and comes to a boil. Reduce heat and simmer for 2 to 5 minutes. Serve over hot stuffed squash 


Chef's Tip: We recommended choosing a Boston marrow squash, turban squash, Hubbard squash, banana squash, or the pale blue-grey New Zealand squash for the best presentation and flavor. If you can’t find chanterelles, use fresh shiitakes, lobster mushrooms, oyster mushrooms, or crimini mushrooms. 

Friday, November 22, 2013

Pets and Holidays ...

...are not a great match.  Imagine how you'd feel if Fido invited 30 stray dogs to your home for a play date.  You'd be a wee bit overwhelmed, wouldn't you?  Well, some dogs feel incredibly stressed when your family comes over for the big holiday celebrations. I like to put Rescue Remedy in the water bowl for up to a week before the big day.  You can find it on line, at a Whole Foods Market or in any store that specializes in natural products.  It's for humans under stress but safe for animals.  Perhaps you'll need a few drops before everyone arrives?

Some people confine their furry companions to a quiet room in the back of the house until it's a wee bit calmer.  I would lower the lights and put on some soothing music. My pets get Reiki Healing Music (available at Amazon) but you can also play something like Mozart. This isn't the time for rap, heavy metal or 'I don't get no satisfaction.' And PLEASE don't put your pup out in the cold 'until he settles down.'  First of all dogs don't belong outside but secondly they are pack animals.  They want to be with you and being miserable in the cold while they listen to your holiday merriment is going to rev them higher.  "Why won't that dog stop barking?!"  Answer: "Because the stupid human has him outside away from the pack!"

I found the above infographic on line and thought I'd share it.  It will arm you with helpful advice for your pet and be especially helpful in case you rescue a stray this season. I drive a car and in my trunk I always have a water bowl, a bottle of fresh water, food, dog treats and a spare leash.  My back seat is covered because I have a dog and I want him to hop in whenever he's going to accompany me without too much fuss. You might want to have a spare blanket in the car.

May everyone in your home have a sane, safe, quiet, nurturing holiday experience this year!  


Organizing Tool of the Week

It isn't often that I find a new product that really turns me on but this Jet Beg does in spades.  I wouldn't personally fly with a bottle of wine but if you have some rare vintage to bring to a holiday celebration out of town this is going to save you.  On the other hand if you are someone who has a large bottle of liquid to bring with you (I'm thinking medicine but The Container Store suggests oils and perfumes) here again is a solution to save your packed clothing not to mention the interior of your suitcase.  

Here's what The Container Store has to say about this handy product:

Jet Bag™ Bottle Protector

Straighten up and fly right with our Jet Bag™ Bottle Protector. Since a bottle of wine, olive oil or perfume often exceeds carry-on security regulations, slip it inside this biodegradable protective case and put it in your checked luggage without a care. A reusable zip-seal closure and ultra-absorbent lining ensure that if there is a leak, it won't spread throughout your suitcase. It's also great for traveling by train, boat and car or for going to a tailgate or picnic.
  • Lining made from polymers and wood pulp that can absorb up to 750 ml
  • Exterior made from durable polyethylene
  • Made in the USA

Wednesday, November 20, 2013

Progress Not Perfection

I had no idea I'd find this exact phrase on Pinterest.  It came to me recently while working with a dog trainer.  My new puppy Charlie is putting me through my paces.  He knows just how to press every button and make my issues stare me in the face waiting to see if I will put on my 'big girl pants' and deal with them or run away. We can run but we certainly can't hide.  Your issues stay with you until you work your way through them and release their hold over you. 

I've watched every episode of The Dog Whisperer.  I've read Cesar Millan's book and follow him on Social Media.  I grew up with a dog and had two Golden Retrievers as an adult.  How could a 17 pound puppy so resist my attempts to be the Pack Leader?  It was comforting to learn from the trainer that assuming the role of Pack Leader can take up to a year to learn.  I felt the same frustration and disappointment my clients feel when confronted with out of control chaos in their home and work environments.  I tell them it's one day, one step, one breath at a time.  Why couldn't I be that kind to myself? And that's when 'progress not perfection' came to me.

If you have issues about the level of organization in your home or how well you 'do' the holidays or if you are driven up the wall by your relatives, guess what? When you change the game plan inside your own being the world will shift to accommodate what you just created inside yourself.  But don't expect miracles.  If the rooms you share with others this holiday season look great but you know the master bedroom is a disaster congratulate yourself on your progress.  Last year the entire house looked like a bomb went off, right?  If Uncle Harry doesn't drive you up the wall until dessert time, be thankful for the hour of peace you allowed. No matter what challenge we face in life it's always about progress and not perfection.  The latter is a fantasy; the former moves us to new ways of being, higher self esteem and more freedom.

What challenge will you face this holiday season?  I'd love to hear about your progress.  In the meantime Charlie and I will be practicing rules and manners.  He turns 10 months on November 19, 2013.


Tuesday, November 19, 2013

Seasonal Tip Day: For Travelers




Are you traveling this holiday season?  Whether you use a travel agent or troll the web for deals best to get going and buy those tickets now!  Here are some ideas to get you started.  You'll find additional tips in the resource guide in the back of One Year to an Organized Life.

  • Be sure you use points to get free travel (you'd be surprised how many people forget their credit card has been earning points that can be cashed in).
  • Driving to grandma's house this year?  Don't put off a tune-up to the last minute.  You may need a surprise repair and you don't want to travel in a compromised fashion. It has happened to me so I speak from experience.
  • Children need to be secured because it's the law, right?  Well, Fido belongs in a crate or with his own safety harness.  A dog who is free roaming or worse on your lap is in danger. Be safe not sorry. The above image is from one of my favorite catalogues In the Company of Dogs.
  • Be sure your phone is charged and that you have extra food and water in your vehicle in case of an emergency.  I got caught in a traffic jam once on Thanksgiving and my one hour drive took an astonishing five! Check traffic reports on line or in the car so you are free to alter your route. I use an app called Beat the Traffic.
  • Check out the Red Cross website and you'll find wonderful items to have in the car like an emergency radio you crank or a camping blanket for a few bucks. By the way an emergency road kit would be a great gift for someone on your list!
And words to live by:  Don't pack everything but the kitchen sink!


Monday, November 18, 2013

Stocking Stuffer Monday

In less than two weeks we will celebrate my favorite holiday ~ Thanksgiving.  What's not to like about a day devoted to eating, socializing and no gift giving.  But wait! This year Thanksgiving is also the first night of Hanukah so some people will be exchanging gifts.  If you are going to a celebration that honors both of these wonderful holidays you can't do better than to surf on over to www.Zabars.com and check out their gift ideas including wonderful (and traditional) gift baskets. I don't work for Zabar's but I grew up in New York City and when you wanted great deli food or specialized gifts you knew they were the source.

Tuesday, November 12, 2013

Organizing Product Idea Day



Let's pretend for a minute you need a car.  You could of course go out and get a top of the line Rolls Royce but after doing due diligence you realize that a Ford will serve you just as well and save you a small fortune.  But then I come along and we discover that you will only need this vehicle on rare weekends and I encourage you to buy a utilitarian used vehicle. You save on the purchase price, maintenance, repairs etc. There is no right or wrong, is there?  It all depends on your needs and of course your budget.

The same applies to shelving units.

The top photo shows the Rolls of shelving units. It's attractive, sturdy and I believe can come with wheels.  The middle photo shows a less attractive but very sturdy unit that would do well in a garage.  The first one could serve you in a garage or in your home. I like the versatility of that choice.

The last one is less than $40 and would be super if all you wanted was to store holiday decoration boxes out in the garage or park items from a big box store out there so your home wasn't clogged with too many paper products and sodas.

You get the idea.

Shelving units will transform any space and enable you not only to store more but to access it easily.  Be sure you know where you need the unit(s), what you intend to store on it and check your budget.  The top one is from The Container Store and is of course my favorite.  The next two are from the Home Depot and I've recommended them frequently.  By the way if anything has to be assembled be sure you have someone who can do it easily.  I've seen my clients take two hours to assemble a shelving unit before they figured out how it went and could move more quickly.  Sometimes paying for a person who can deliver and assemble is worth everything!

Stocking Stuffer Monday

I can't imagine a better gift for a child than one that feeds his or her thirst for knowledge.  National Geographic for kids is only $15 for a year (10 issues) and is for children as young as 6. Here are some reasons to offer it to the children in your life especially nieces, nephews, and the children of dear friends: 

It’s mind-boggling! NG Kids is packed with you-are-there storytelling and beautiful photos of wild animals, exotic places, and interesting phenomena from around the world.
It’s compelling! NG Kids engages kids with colorful graphics and fascinating bits of information about nature, technology, the environment, and world cultures.
It’s entertaining! Each issue includes cool features that make learning fun, like Weird But True, Bet You Didn't Know, Amazing Animals, and more!
It’s exciting! Select issues come with bonuses to delight and surprise kids, like collectible animal cards and pull-out posters.
It’s fun! Clever games and riddles make kids curious and excited to learn about the world.

Guess what?  There's also a magazine for the little ones ages 3 to 6! It too costs $15 and there are 6 issues.  Surf on over to www.NationalGeographic.com and click on the kids link at the top.  And while you're there you might want to order a subscription for the regular magazine for an adult in your life! There are many wonderful magazines out there that cater to various interests.  If you know a teenager who is a budding fashionista get her a subscription to something like Vogue. Great treasures fit into Christmas stockings!






Saturday, November 9, 2013

Organizing Day Food

Here's a hearty yet easy to make dish I found to share with you.  It's from the folks at Forks Over Knives.  You'll find all sorts of great information at their site and if you haven't seen their documentary I think you'll be pleased and surprised by what you'll learn.

I can't say it often enough: eat well and drink lots of water as a general rule of life but especially on days when big organizing projects loom.  You need to keep your strength up!

 Beans with Greens, Garlic and Tomato

White Beans with Greens Garlic and Tomato 570x299 White Beans with Greens, Garlic and TomatoYou get the colors of the Italian flag, along with fresh flavors in this dish.
adobe pdf icon White Beans with Greens, Garlic and Tomato
White Beans with Greens, Garlic and Tomato
Serves 4
Ingredients:
  • 1 cup white beans, soaked (see below)*
  • 1 medium onion, diced
  • 6 cloves garlic, minced, half reserved
  • ½ to 2/3 cup low-sodium vegetable broth
  • 1 bunch greens such as kale or collards, chopped, to equal 4-6 cups
  • 3 cups diced heirloom tomatoes or 1 large can unsalted diced tomatoes, drained
  • Pinch of red pepper flakes, or diced hot pepper, if desired
  • ½ teaspoon salt (optional)
  • Black pepper, to taste
Instructions:
*If fresh shelling beans are available, use them. If not, soak your beans overnight or do a quick soak and then cook them quickly in the pressure cooker. No, pressure cooker? It takes much longer on the stovetop but can be done.
Pressure Cooker:
Drain the beans and set aside. Heat the pressure cooker over medium heat. Add the onion and sauté for 2 to 3 minutes. Add the garlic and sauté another minute. Add the beans and broth and lock the lid on the cooker. Bring to high pressure over high heat and then reduce the heat. Cook for 5 minutes. Remove from the heat and let the pressure come down naturally. Carefully open the lid, tilting it away from you. Add the greens and stir. Lay the tomatoes on top of the green and beans mixture. Add the pepper flakes or hot pepper now, if using, along with the remaining garlic. Bring to high pressure again for 2 minutes. Remove from the heat and let the pressure come down naturally. Carefully open the lid and add salt and pepper, to taste. Serve hot over quinoa, other whole grain or pasta or as a side dish.
Stovetop:
Dry sauté the onions and half the garlic and then add the beans and broth to cover (it will be closer to 1 cup or more). Cook, simmering, until the beans are done, adding liquid as necessary to keep beans covered. Drain off most of the broth, leaving about ¼ cup in the pot. Then add the greens, tomatoes, pepper flakes, if using and the remaining garlic. Simmer for up to 10 minutes until the greens are cooked and the tomatoes start to break down. Season to taste. Serve hot over quinoa, other whole grain or pasta or as a side dish.
adobe pdf icon White Beans with Greens, Garlic and Tomato

Friday, November 8, 2013

Let's Go to the Dogs Day

Do you have a dog that pulls?  Do you marvel at his ability to practically choke himself to death in an effort to be out in front on a walk playing Leader of the Pack? The above leash and collar in one is used by professionals in the dog show world and by Cesar Millan.  It will give you more control without threatening your dog's delicate throat area.  The collar rides high so when you give a correction it's hitting a spot that can't cause damage. How I wish I had known about this when I had my female Golden Retriever.  She was 70 pounds of pulling muscle for the first five years of her life.  It's always the human of course and I needed Pack Leader training but never underestimate the power of the right tool.

If you don't have a dog but watch a relative, friend or neighbor fly down the street behind their pup be sure and stuff one of these into their stocking this holiday. I'm not endorsing any brand.  You can shop on line or go to your local pet store.  Just ask for the 'leash and collar in one' and you'll be introduced to the right one for your pup.  Charlie, my 17 pound Havanese mix says "Woof! Woof!" He and his trainer like the one we're using!

Thursday, November 7, 2013

Organizing Day Advice

This piece of advice is one I'm going to repeat throughout the season.  Holiday shopping is not safe if it's driven by your heart or your emotions.  It needs to be organized by your brain and governed by a budget.  I know that doesn't sound like fun but the moment your gifts are opened and appreciated is yours to savor.  The moment I want you to avoid is the one in January when bloated credit card bills arrive and you're now in debt. 

Learn Vest is one of several reputable financial sites devoted to keeping you on track financially not just during the holidays but throughout the year.  You can find guidance in my book with financial planner Russell Wild One Year to an Organized Financial Life.  It's a great gift by the way for the friend or relative who overspends at this time of year.

Here are some tips to get you started.

  • Sit down with pen and paper and figure out exactly how much money you have to spend.

  • Remember to factor in all the expenses that must be dealt with this season in addition to gifts.  You may be traveling and entertaining for example neither of which are cheap.

  • Think outside the box when it comes to gifts.  LISTEN when your friends and family members speak and they'll unconsciously feed you a lot of hints.

  • Ask someone for help whether that's an assistant or professional organizer or a teenager who is responsible and wants to earn money. Let them shop and/or wrap for you.
  • If you are not interested in spending money opt out of exchanges. Bank the money or pay off a credit card or medical bill. 
Take a deep breath. It's supposed to be fun

Wednesday, November 6, 2013

Seasonal Tip Day

If I had to single out the one thing that universally makes people crazy during the holiday season it would be the tree lights.  We toss them into containers of various types and sizes and the following year a tangled knot emerges.  We kick and scream and most likely dump the lot and start fresh.  The above is a different way to go! Devote a little time to proper storage and the reward will be hours of frustration saved.

Here's how The Container Store describes this unit:

Wing-Lid Light Storage Boxes

Keep strings of holiday lights safe and tangle-free with our Wing-Lid Light Storage Boxes. Each includes four Light Cord Wraps that are suspended inside of the box so they hang neatly. To use, simply wind and unwind strands of lights or garland - it's a huge time-saver! Choose from two sizes to accommodate most sizes and lengths of lights and garland.
  • Made from polypropylene
  • Additional Light Cord Wraps are available (also sold separately, listed below)
  • Made in the USA


Of course there are other solutions and I'll try and present them to you over the new next few weeks.  Don't forget these two ideas: purchase a pre-lit tree or hire a service to do your home. Where there's a will there's a way!

Tuesday, November 5, 2013

Organizing Product Idea Day: Store in Style


I just organized a large home office and we needed to find attractive containers to hold the daily mail and miscellaneous items that were calling out to be dealt with ASAP. I found these wood bins at The Container Store and thought I'd share them with you. The flat bins would be great for the daily newspaper. When the sections of the paper bleed across a coffee table, desk top or any other surface (the floor, anyone?) it looks so messy you may never read the paper. This way it's all contained and tidy. Personally I toss the paper after 24 hours even if I haven't had a chance to read it. If an article calls out to me I clip it and put it in my To Read folder. 

The smaller tray would be a great way to store paper for the printer.  Most people tear open the package of paper and pull out what they need.  The now opened package will sit out or be tucked into a cupboard looking like a mouse chewed it open.  I like beauty and peace to surround me when I work!

I love these big bins because in a large family with everyone getting mail it helps to corral it in one place. I also like those built in handles that make the box so easy to transport.  The kitchen may be the place you deposit the mail but the office is the spot where you deal with it.  Why not make that transition easy?  Of course the key to prevent an overflow is to deal with the mail every day at the same time: toss the junk; put the newspaper in the new bin and secure a separate magazine holder. Divide your mail so that it gets sorted and filed in the appropriate folder like To Do or To File. And be sure you own a cross cut shredder to help combat Identity Theft. You can find detailed instructions in One Year to an Organized Life or any of my other books.


Monday, November 4, 2013

Stocking Stuffer Monday

Chanukah is early this year so holiday buying is on the fast track and due to last a full two months.  Until we get to the New Year I'm going to break up the week into different topics.  It will look like this:

Monday is Stocking Stuffer Day

Tuesday is Organizing Product Idea Day

Wednesday is Organizing Advice Day

Thursday is Seasonal Organizing Day

Friday is Organize Your Pets Day

Saturday is Organizing Day Recipes with introductions to healthy cooking sites

Sunday is your day to work on projects and mine to 'blog rest!'

The above little product is a gem and will delight anyone with an addiction to their cell phone.  In other words ... everyone!  Here's what The Container Store says about it:

Bondi®

How will you use Bondi®? As a phone holder, bookmark or cord controller, this little guy has but one goal: to help you hold things. Two flexible arms can be wrapped around the item you're securing. A wide, flexible hook at the top lets you hang Bondi® on a hook, over a rearview mirror, from a stroller or doorknob. Bondi® is your very own personal, versatile, little helper!
  • Made from silicone-covered wire
  • Entirely flexible
  • Includes a booklet that shows its many uses
I think this is a fun, useful, inexpensive gift for just about everyone on your lift. And there's no doubt it will help keep them organized.  What's worse when you're driving than fumbling for the phone so you can hear the driving directions better?   You could make Bondi your servant at home as well. Enjoy a hands free conversation while making one of the recipes I post every Friday at this blog. Let me know if you have Bondi and how you make use of it. 

What type of information would you most like to find here?

June 2009, in China

June 2009, in China
At the Summer Palace outside Beijing