Friday, September 3, 2010

37 Picture This!

One day I received a fabulous question from a fabulous reader.  She was inquiring about the Jones' cleaning routine, so I shared it with her via this post.  Within that post I shared with you all, a secret weapon cleaning spreadsheet that I had created...


Then one day, I had a crazy cleaning fit and took all of my things off of my fridge, because I just can't stand fridge clutter.  I tucked away the checklist until I could come up with a new solution.

I wanted to be able to use the dry erase method for the checklist, but the laminated option began looking a little dingy and floppy.  Then bam, it came to me!  Love when that happens!

Glass is dry erase, and frames are less "floppy" than just laminated paper.  You know where I am going with this now right?!!

I snagged a cute frame from during a recent Ikea trip:


Along with a pack of Command Picture Hanging Strips:

I then updated our checklist with things that I found I was adding to the open slots, and printed it out in an 8 x 10 format {gotta love that printers can just resize things for you!  They also make document sized frames, I just didn't stumble across one that I loved...}

Then, following the directions on the back of the Command Strip package, I attached the strips to the back of the frame:


And then popped the frame onto the side of the fridge!


The frame offers a much cleaner look!  And I just heart how it matches our mail station PERFECTLY!


 But does it work?  Um, YES!  Smiles all around!


The glass is a perfect way to use the "dry erase" option, I just use a fine point dry erase marker!  I love it so much, I will be utilizing this again and again for a couple more things....

Super quick and easy update that takes something from looking a little drab, to uber fab!  I just heart when that happens!

What have you been popping into frames lately?  Anything other than art and pictures?




Thursday, September 2, 2010

27 You Asked: Where do I Begin?!

Getting organized doesn't happen overnight.  It doesn't happen in a day.  In a week.  In a year.  It's a life long process that continues to build over time.  Hopefully the more organized you are, the more you will have time for the things you enjoy in life.  Whether that be your kids, family, friends, work, traveling or hobbies, it's all about filling your life with what makes you happy.

I find that I thrive in an organized space.  It takes less time to accomplish daily tasks when everything has a place to go, and I also despise spending time searching through piles when it's time to snag something in a rush.  It's all about creating a lifestyle that is easy to maintain and simple for the family, giving us more quality time for one another!

A stat that I read and now think about ALL the time because it was so jaw dropping to me was this, "American women spend 55.2 minutes a day looking for things, according to a study Real Simple conducted in 2003.  Those 55.2 minutes per day add up to a staggering 14 days per year."  - Real Simple The Organized Home.  OOFTA!!

As I mentioned, getting organized takes time.  And it's not for everyone, some people thrive on getting organized, others dread the tasks that get you there.

Bringing me to an incredible question I received from a reader.

Marian wrote:


Hi Jen,
My name is Marian from Florida. I just want to say how much I really admire your simplicity in everything and the way you organize things.  I wish you were living in Florida and do organizing and interior design for others. I would have hired you in a heart beat. But for now I would love to hear from you. I am in loss of where to start in organizing.do you have a game plan for each space or how do you do it?
Let me know? I know it is such an open question but may be you can lead me on the right path.
Sincerely,
Marian


And here is what I had to say back to Ms. Marian...

Hi Marian!

You have an extremely wonderful question, one that I am sure a lot of individuals face when looking to start either one project, or a zillion of them. 

Organizing can very quickly be extremely overwhelming.  I know, I have been there, and I tend to freak out when too many places or zones are losing order.  But the most important thing to do, is to take one little space at a time.  It really does help.  I start by focusing on one room or zone per month, and then when I have a spare hour, day or weekend to devote to that room, I attack it with a plan.  Picking which room to start with can also be a challenge.  I would recommend starting easy, don't tackle the worst first, because you might lose the energy to keep going.  Start small, then go big.  One small project is just as important and accomplished as a whole room update.

How do I plan?  I spend at least 15 minutes in that room, taking it all in and letting my ideas flow.  How do I ultimately want the space to function?  What is holding it back?  What do I love about the space?  What don't I love?  What is my budget?  What do I have around the house that could work in this room?  I start writing down all of my ideas in a notepad. 




Next, I start sorting.  Paring down and simplifying is one of the best ways to gain a cleaner, more functional space.  I look at a lot of the items residing and ask, do we use this and how often?  How will life change without it?  I also try to take mental note of anything I am getting rid of and why, so next time around I am not investing in things that I don't need or won't be happy with months down the line.  It's very eye opening when sorting, how much money could be saved by buying only things you truly love and save for and will cherish.



I tend to try to sell anything that I believe can be of use to someone or that is still in decent condition, to earn some money back for the room or my savings.  I have used Ebay and had garage sales, and am planning on listing some of my first items on Craigslist this week.  Anything that doesn't sell, is then donated.  I do my best not to be wasteful, there are times when things can be put by the curb with a sign "Free" instead of throwing it away....




After pairing down goods, I look at what's remaining, and again, keep in mind how it will be used.  I group "like" items and look for containers that will fit the items {hopefully I have things laying around the house, like empty boxes, soup cans, baskets or bins}, and locate them in places that are easily accessible.  The whole purpose is to make the space more functional when I am done with it.  And I am so lucky, I have been finding, the more organized I am, the more time I have to do more organizing!  But really, little bits at a time are key.  Don't try to do a whole room in an entire day or weekend.  Realistic time lines are key and really help ensure you don't get a feeling of being overwhelmed and flustered or discouraged.

Once you finish one or two projects, you may {and hopefully will} find that the amazing feeling that rushes over you, will be uber addicting and you will want to go back for more.  And then when life is easier because of the time you invested, you will find benefit and motivation to continue. 

You will do great.  If you need any specific advice on any project, please feel free to shoot me a note and ask.  When I hit roadblocks, I literally just spend extra time taking in the space and scour the blog world, my magazines and the internet for some added inspiration. 

xoxo,
Jen


So to sum it up quickly in a few bullets, here is how to get 'er done:

1.  Pick a space/zone - Start Small
2.  Make a list - Prioritize Projects
3.  Sort belongings
4.  Sell/Donate/Recycle/Toss
5.  Organize - Place items where it makes the most sense
6.  Pat yourself on the back, do a little dance, give a high five... feel accomplished!! 


To be honest, I find a lot of motivation from accomplishing projects that reap rewards on my time investment.  Seeing my kids and family benefit from the energy I have put into, is the biggest reward of all.  But I also find motivation from seeing the benefits others have found from their projects as well.  You all inspire me with your notes and stories every day.  Reading through blogs and magazines also inspire.  Inspiration is EVERYWHERE!

Because we are all so different, and different things work for different people, I gotta know, what works best for you when getting organized?  Anyone have any additional ideas or advice for Marian and the rest of us readers, that seem to work well for you?  What is your biggest organizing success and why?  I can't wait to hear from you incredibly talented readers!


Wednesday, September 1, 2010

5 Reader Space: Becky's Beautiful Bedroom Closet

Oh goodness, the timing for this reader space couldn't be any better!  August's featured space was the bedroom, and although September is now here, I am continuing on with featuring bedrooms since there is oodles more content that I didn't get to cover last month. 

And as I mentioned yesterday, I am diving into some closet organizing of my own, and this reader is providing me with some extra motivation and inspiration to get that done!!

Becky wrote:


Hi, Jen! 

I like your blog...since I'm also an avid organizer myself!  Here is a link to a page I did on organizing bedroom closet:

I also want to include a before shot:


 ...and how I've organized the closet since we moved in:


Feel free to browse around and see other stuff I've done and organizing tips like this one where I show how to fit more in your closets and drawers:

Enjoy!  I have enjoyed your blog, too!  We organizing-loving people love to pick up new tricks and tips from each other :)

~ Becky

  
Oh there is so much to love about Becky's closet!  It's every girl's dream, with LOADS of drawer storage for all sorts of goodies that can't be hung up.  She has shoe storage, belt storage, sock and purse storage, oh my!  {I found oodles more on her blog!}

Here is another photo that I snagged from her blog:



I just heart those organizers inside the drawers so very much!  What a great way to keep her socks matched up together!

I also love to see that all her drawers are neatly labeled, totally melts my label making heart!  And to know that she stashes purses into those floral boxes {which can be found at Ikea}, is lovely to me since I did the exact same thing in my walk in!  Apparently, organizing minds think alike!

This is a perfect example of what a huge change that the investment in a closet system can make!  An immense amount of new and functional real estate because available once those drawers and racks were installed.  I just adore it!

Thanks so much for reading this blog and sharing your story with us Becky!  And for giving me that little extra push to get me working on our closet storage!

So what's your favorite part?  All those labeled drawers?  Her fantastic shoes?  The fun floral boxes?  I could go on and on....




P.S.  Have an awesome story to share?  How about some organizing tips and tricks?  Maybe a project completed from an inspiration found?  Please send your story and photos to iheartorganizing@gmail.com and I would heart to feature them right here, on the blog!!

Tuesday, August 31, 2010

6 August Featured Space: Bedroom - Closet Inspiration

Now that I have completed the fun side of our closet update....


It's time to address the other side.....


We had already added floor to ceiling shelving cubbies to not only act as a divider between the closet and the "office" to the tune of about $30.  We also reused all of the wire shelving that was already in the closet, we just installed it at new heights to make room for two good rows of clothes storage.  I also tossed a shoe stand in there that I snagged from another closet.

Now it's time to fill up those shelves and hang up the clothes..... but before I get started, I thought that it would be fun to drool over some online closet candy I found as a little inspiration!

Courtesy of BHG.com




Courtesy of ContainerStore.com


Courtesy of MakingitLovely.com


Courtesy of BHG.com

Courtesy of RemodelingCenter.com

Each on of those closet spaces makes me uber eager to hop into my own closet organization project, like 10 minutes ago!  I can't be the only one wiping up slobber off of my keyboard?  Can I?  It's pictures like this that inspire me.  What inspires you?



Monday, August 30, 2010

92 August Featured Space: Bedroom - Conquering Closets {part 3}

Accessories.  They create function.  They create style.  They create drama.  Whether you are spicing up a hot outfit for a night out on the town with a pair of sparkling bangles, or you are dressing up your living room coffee table with a stack of books and fresh flowers... accessories play such a HUGE role in completing the look of any space.

And I had a TON of fun using accessories and storage bins from all over my home, to completely style up my new desk space!

Giving it some major before and after drama that has had me wanting to take up permanent residence in my new workspace!


So here is the quick back story in a nutshell.  Once upon a time we created an office space for me to use for blogging, logging daycare information {as my first job} editing kid's pictures, and hopefully as a place to start up my future Home Organizing business.  That makeover was even featured on Young House Love!


Then, our basement flooded and our carpet was ripped out along with trim, doors and much of our furniture, giving us a temporary residence in our upper level.  And because our insurance said our loss was uninsured, it will be mucho months before we can refinish our lower level back to what it once was...  

Once my kiddos are down for their nightly sleeps or when I am blessed with some quiet alone time, I could spend hours working on the computer or crafting.  After losing the lower level, we did what we could to quickly consolidate all of our belongings and move to the upper level.  The only zone we were without was our work zone.

We have since been uber successful in re-creating a new place to call work home, and we couldn't heart it more.  In fact, we have decided to call it our new permanent office, even after we move back downstairs, because we just love it that much!

We first tackled the space by adding some paint and wallpaper, to give it some life and make it a place that we would enjoy working in.  As you know, I am a jumbo believer in mixing organization with beauty, because when you believe your space is lovely, you are more apt to want to keep it that way.

Then the hubs quickly tossed in a piece of MDF that got a quick coat of paint, along with a painted floating shelf and called it a desk!


And I was left with my favorite part.  Making it functional.  Making it fabulous!

I started by looking at EVERYTHING I wanted to fit in the space, and decided that between the printer and craft cart alone, I was already losing half of my space.

And where to put the printer?  It was half the size of the desk!

And I had no more budget!

No fear my friends!  I went shopping anyway!  In my own house!

I snagged bunches of paper boxes and organizers and accessories from my previous office space, and even snagged a shoe rack from our old closet.

Looking at the abundance of storage options at my fingers without having to leave my house, made me beyond excited to get the space in tip top working space in no time!

We started by tackling the printer problem.  Using a shoe rack that we shortened to fit, was the perfect solution for housing not only the printer, but also our external hard drive and a docking station for our laptop.  It also holds storage boxes and my overly used laminator!


Keeping these items tucked away under the desk, leaves us with a boatload more workspace on top of the desk!

We also added one more shelf up high, out of the remaining shelving we originally had in our closet before all of the makeover began.


Between the shoe rack down under and all of the shelving above, I was able to add oodles of labeled storage boxes to hold papers and mega amounts of craft supplies.

 

And speaking of papers.  I unloaded three drawers full of 12 x 12 papers into a pretty white lace basket I stole from our old playroom.


But back to those shelves.  Want a closer peek?
Receipts are tossed into a media box....


And electronic cords and misc. office supplies are tossed into some pretty planters...who would ever know?


And to make an accessory out of storage, I used those mason jars IHeart so much, to hold some pretty scrapbook embellishments.


 And no shelf would be called complete without some art.  And to us, it was the most beautiful art a gal could ask for....


I just tossed a picture I printed out from our recent Regent Hill photo session, and matted it in a glass clip frame {also stole from the old home office}.

Now we get to focus where all of the real magic happens.  Well, at least where the work is produced.  It also packs a lot of stolen storage!  

Like magazine bins used to hold stationary and address books and planners...


To spice tins to hold more of the mini-scrap-booking embellishments....


Although the tins have pretty paper in the fronts, and still require some labeling, they are quite perfect for those little things!


As you may have noticed, the storage I snagged from around the house definitely didn't stop there.  I also re-used my fav pencil cup storage for art supplies.


And threw some cork in an old photo frame to create a new memo board!


About a gazillion years ago I snagged a swing arm lamp for our guest bedroom next to the bed... it has been in a box for that gazillion years waiting to be installed.  Lucky me, because task lighting is so important when you are working, it got installed in my new workspace instead!


And what you may be wondering about all of this fantastical glam desk space.... where are all those cords?


When we are running cordless.... I have a tray with some desk accessories....


But when it's time to plug in.... the tray is scooted aside, and a little hole is exposed....


That cord comes from a docking station which also connects all of our other electronics {printer, external hard drive, etc...}. 


Everything is currently powered by an outlet just outside the closet, however, for only a couple bucks we picked up some electrical materials to install an outlet inside the closet to permanently hide all cords for good!  

So when you put ALL of that stolen storage together, you get a little of this!


And this.....


And a big ol' smile plastered across this face!!

It feels SO good to be done with THAT!

Speaking of done, no blog post is complete without some final before and after pictures.

Here is a side by side of what the closet looked like when we moved into the room, and what it looks like today, a couple weeks later!


It really resembles our previous office space, I guess that's what you get when you reuse everything!


It also made me realize the main things IHeart about any work space:
  • Wallpaper {Make it Pretty!}
  • Accessory Storage
  • Family Pictures
  • Paper/Stationary Storage
  • Memo Board
Now for our favorite part!  Enjoying it all each and every day!

Who else out there is working out of an itty bitty closet space?  Do you just love that it's all tucked away?  What is the most important storage piece that you use in your office space?  How about your favorite functioning room accessory?  I would heart to know!!


P.S.  Make sure to check out how I have updated the space to be easily concealed! {Not that I ever would want to hide it, I just heart it so much!}