Finding Clarity: Organizing My Space During Divorce by Nicholl McGuire

Divorce is tough, filled with a mix of emotions, decisions, and changes. In the midst of this drama, years ago I found that organizing my living space became not just a task, but a form of therapy and a way to reclaim my sense of self. Here’s how I navigated the process of organizing my dwelling while going through a divorce. 

1. Acknowledging the Emotional Challenges

The first step was recognizing the emotional toll that the divorce was taking on me. Our townhouse, once a sanctuary, had felt heavy with memories that were both beautiful and painful. I made the decision to move with my children. I understood that before I could move on, I needed to confront my feelings. I took some time to reflect, journaling about my emotions and the changes I was experiencing. Church visits  helped both on and offline. I also had supportive loved ones who didn't mind listening to me cry.

 2. Setting Realistic Goals

Once I had acknowledged my feelings, I set practical goals for relocating and moving into my new living space with my children who would be living with me part-time. My primary objective was to create an environment that felt calm and welcoming. I wanted our dwelling to be a reflection of the new chapter in our lives, where we could feel safe and inspired. I broke down the organizing process into manageable tasks, tackling one room or area at a time. I started out with a one bedroom and converted the livingroom space into a childrens' bedroom until later we moved into a two bedroom apartment. We were off to a great start!

3. Decluttering with Purpose

Decluttering became a cathartic experience. As I sifted through belongings, I asked myself if each item brought me joy or served a purpose in my new life. I asked the children what they still liked and what was okay to let other children enjoy. Surprisingly, they had outgrew many things and was open to new toys in the future. I found it helpful to categorize items into three piles: keep, donate, and discard. The act of letting go of things that no longer served us was liberating. I donated several items to local charities and sold some things that we couldn't use or didn't fit, knowing that they would help others while also lightening my emotional load.

4. Creating Comfortable Functional Spaces

With the clutter cleared, we were ready to move with less stuff. I focused on creating functional spaces that suited our needs at our new apartment. I rearranged furniture to create small study and playing areas. This not only optimized our living space but also helped us mentally. I transformed a corner of my bedroom so that I could sit on the floor and relax or work in peace, complete with decorative decor, creating a room of serenity.

 5. Embracing Minimalism

When I started to clean, I found the joy of "minimalism" back then long before I knew it was a word. Simplifying my environment had tamed the chaos from the move, and I felt clear and at peace. I have since adopted a more intentional approach to my possessions, opting for quality over quantity. A simple living space, a bed, a chair, and a small table or desk along with a bookshelf and small storage drawers and accessories was good enough for each room. This change not only made my new space look larger, but also reflected the emotional simplicity I was aiming for in our lives.

6. Seeking Support

I realized I didn’t have to do this alone, but I chose to until my children and I were comfortable inviting loved ones over. Once we were ready, sharing this experience with others not only lightened the burden but also provided me with different perspectives and encouragement.

7. Celebrating Progress

Every small victory in the organizing process was worth celebrating. I took moments to appreciate the changes with the move and our new space. I hung up a few of our favorite art pieces, reminding my children and myself of our passions and dreams. Creating a space that felt authentically theirs and mine was a crucial part of moving forward.

Conclusion: A Fresh Start

Organizing our new dwelling during the divorce was more than just a physical task; it was a journey of self-discovery and healing for the children and myself. Each step I took in reshaping our environments helped us emotionally and find a sense of stability for us. As I moved forward into my new chapter during a challenging time in our lives, those apartments (the first one bedroom and later the second apartment with two bedrooms) became a reflection of my resilience and hope for the future. 

Since the divorce, my young playful children grew up to be loving and responsible adults. They have thanked me for doing what I could to build good homes for them. They were tearful when they recalled my commitment to serving and helping them grow. With smiles and hugs, they laugh about some of those days and are forever grateful about those home-cooked meals we enjoyed and still do to date!

Years ago, I learned that while divorce may close one door, it also opens another, inviting us to create a space that nurtures our growth and well-being. You got this!

Nicholl McGuire is the author of When Mothers Cry available on Amazon and other online bookstores.

When You Know It’s Time to Call a Professional Home Organizer

In today’s fast-paced world, our homes should be our sanctuaries. However, for many of us, the clutter and chaos can feel overwhelming. If you find yourself staring at a mountain of unorganized belongings, you might be wondering: Is it time to hire a professional home organizer? Here are some relatable signs that could indicate it’s time to seek help.

1. The Stress of Clutter is Affecting Your Life

Have you ever walked into a room and felt an immediate wave of stress? Clutter can weigh heavily on our minds. If you find yourself feeling anxious or overwhelmed every time you step into your home, it might be a sign that you need assistance. 

Example: Imagine coming home after a long day, only to be greeted by piles of laundry and stacks of paperwork. Instead of feeling relaxed, you feel a knot in your stomach. A professional home organizer can help create a serene environment, allowing you to unwind.

2. You’re Constantly Losing Things

Do you spend more time searching for your keys or that elusive remote than enjoying your home? If misplacing items has become a daily frustration, it could be time to bring in an expert.

Example: Picture this: You’re running late for work, and you can’t find your wallet. You tear through drawers and bags, only to find it in the most unexpected place. A professional can help you establish systems that keep everything in its rightful spot, saving you time and stress.

3. You’re Overwhelmed by the Thought of Organizing

Sometimes, the mere thought of organizing can feel paralyzing. If you’ve got the intention but lack the motivation or know-how, a professional organizer can guide you through the process.

You might have a garage full of boxes and no idea where to start. Instead of diving in and feeling defeated, imagine working alongside someone who can break it down into manageable tasks, making the process feel less daunting.

4. You’re Moving or Downsizing

Life changes, and so do our needs. Whether you’re moving to a new home or downsizing to a smaller space, the amount of stuff you own can become overwhelming. 

Think about your childhood home filled with memories and belongings that no longer serve you. A professional organizer can help you sort through what to keep, donate, or toss, making your transition smoother and less stressful.

5. You’re Experiencing a Major Life Change

Events such as a new baby, a job change, or even the loss of a loved one can leave you feeling disorganized and emotionally drained. 

After having a baby, the last thing you want to deal with is clutter. A professional can help create functional spaces that cater to your new lifestyle, allowing you to focus on what truly matters—your family.

6. You Want to Create a Space That Reflects You

Sometimes, we hold onto items that no longer align with who we are or how we want to live. If you’re ready for a change but don’t know where to start, a professional can help you curate a space that reflects your values and style.

Perhaps your living room is filled with mismatched furniture and decor from years past. A professional organizer can assist in selecting pieces that not only fit your aesthetic but also serve a purpose.

 Conclusion

Hiring a professional home organizer is not just about decluttering; it’s about transforming your space into one that enhances your quality of life. If you resonate with any of the scenarios above, consider reaching out for help. Remember, seeking assistance is a sign of strength, not weakness. Embrace the opportunity to create a home that brings you joy and peace, allowing you to focus on what truly matters. 

Your sanctuary awaits! Check out local home organizers in your area today!

Transform Your Space: A DIY Guide to Home Organization

Are you feeling overwhelmed by clutter in your home? Do you dream of a beautifully organized space but think hiring a professional interior decorator is your only option? Fear not! With a little creativity and some guidance, you can tackle the mess yourself. This blog is your ultimate resource for transforming every corner of your home into a haven of organization.

Why Organizing Matters

A well-organized home not only looks good but also enhances your daily life. It reduces stress, saves time, and creates a more inviting atmosphere for family and guests. Whether you’re organizing your bathroom, closet, office, or any other space, the benefits are undeniable.

Room-by-Room Organization Tips

1. Bathroom Bliss

- Declutter: Start by removing expired products and items you no longer use. 

- Storage Solutions: Utilize baskets and drawer organizers to keep toiletries tidy. 

- Vertical Space: Install shelves to maximize storage without sacrificing floor space.

2. Closet Clarity

- Seasonal Switch: Rotate clothes seasonally to keep only what you need accessible.

- Categorize: Organize by type (e.g., shirts, pants) and color for a visually pleasing effect. 

- Utilize Hangers: Use cascading hangers to save space and keep outfits together.

3. Office Order

- Desk Declutter: Clear off your desk and keep only essentials on it.

- File System: Create a filing system for important documents. Use color-coded folders for easy access.

- Digital Declutter: Regularly clean your computer files to stay organized digitally.

4. Drawer Dynamics

- Sort and Conquer: Empty drawers and categorize items. Discard what you no longer need.

- Trays and Dividers: Use trays to separate small items, making it easier to find what you need.

- Labeling: Label drawers for quick identification of contents.

5. Living Room Layout

- Furniture Arrangement: Rearrange furniture to create a more open and inviting space.

- Storage Solutions: Use decorative baskets and ottomans with hidden storage.

- Display Wisely: Showcase your favorite items while keeping clutter at bay.

Getting Started: Your Organization Journey

Start with one room at a time. Set aside a few hours each week to tackle different areas. Remember, organization is a process, not a race! 

Resources to Help You

- Videos: Check out our collection of how-to videos for visual guidance on specific organization projects on this blog.

- Articles: Dive deeper into topics like minimalism, efficient storage solutions, and maintaining your organized space.

- Community Support: Join our blog to share tips, ask questions, and celebrate your organizing victories!

Conclusion

With the right strategies and tools, you can create an organized home that reflects your style and meets your family's needs. Don’t let clutter hold you back—begin your organizing journey today! 

For more inspiration and resources, bookmark this blog and stay tuned for our upcoming posts filled with innovative ideas and expert advice. Happy organizing!

The Home Organizing Team

7 Tips on Organizing an iPhone Home Screen

Does your iPhone home screen look like a cluttered mess? Take the time to organize your phone and save yourself yet another headache. Here are some useful tips.

1. Keep it simple - A home screen should be organized in a way that makes it easy to find what you're looking for. Avoid overcrowding by keeping only the essential apps and folders on your home screen.

2. Group similar apps together - This will help you find what you're looking for faster and also make your home screen look more streamlined. For example, you can create a folder for all your social media apps or another one for productivity apps.

3. Use app drawers - If your home screen is getting too cluttered, consider using an app drawer to keep all your apps organized in one place. App drawers can be accessed by swiping down from the top of your home screen or by pressing the home button twice.

4. Use widgets wisely - Widgets can be a great way to add some functionality to your home screen, but use them sparingly. Too many widgets can make your home screen look cluttered and overwhelm you with information.

5. Keep your background simple - A busy background can make it harder to find what you're looking for on your home screen. Stick with a simple background that won't distract from the apps and folders on your home screen.

6. Use wallpapers - Wallpapers can be a great way to personalize your home screen and make it unique to you. There are many different sources for free wallpapers online, so finding one that fits your style should be easy.

7. Use themes - Themes are a great way to change the look of your home screen without having to do a complete overhaul. Many themes come with their own icons, wallpapers, and app drawer designs, so you can really change things up with just a few taps.

Organizing your iPhone home screen doesn't have to be a daunting task. By following these simple tips, you can create a home screen that's both stylish and functional.

Office Spaces that are functional and not-so functional - tips, advice

 

If this is all you have, then sure, why not buy this desk and if you don't plan on sitting for long, well not a bad chair.  However, we know better even though this makes for a great photo, there is no storage on top of the desk for something as simple as a pencil and definitely no comfy cushion for a sore rear-end.

Although this office space is quite modern, looks clean, well lit, evenly spaced and organized, there is a huge problem, it wouldn't be welcoming to most people who have endured so much due to COVID.  Nowadays companies will need to put more thought and money into physically organizing the bodies of people.  No more piling people up in a room and allowing employees to cough and breathe on one another especially when they are ill.  In this photograph, every other row of desks would need to be removed or spaced out further apart.  A partition between each desk and masks on if visiting one's neighbor.  A sanitation station nearby and a temperature check would have to be taken before any of the employees even set foot in the room!

We know who works here!  What is great about this workspace is it illustrates one's personality well.  Does yours say who you are?  I thought the wheels were interesting at the feet of the desk.  The floor plan is quite simple with useful items nearby and neatly arranged.  However, it is safe to assume that this individual doesn't spend many hours in this room, once again an uncomfortable chair is in view and the space is not set up near any sort of window view.  When you have a room that has no view, so that you don't go mad, you will need to decorate your walls and have music ready to play like this person has done.

Here we have a simple office space, but the first thing that jumped out at me was the wiring--ugh!  On this blog, I have tips about what to do with wiring.  I like the small desktop drawers for the user's convenience and the one's underneath the desk.  I assume that this person may periodically work on electronics at this desk.  The stool is another uncomfortable chair which would require frequent breaks.  This might work for some who just don't know how to take breaks.  If you are like that, you may want to replace an uncomfortable chair with a not-so comfortable one.

What you just viewed are just some examples around the web of people's office spaces.  When you think of adding some final touches to your own home space consider what you still might need to make the best use out of your work space.  Maybe it is something to organize the little things you use for the top of your desk.  You might need a better office chair.  You may be worried about getting sick at work because your company is not really doing all they could to keep you and your coworkers safe.  Whatever might be a concern, make plans to address.  

Check out other useful articles on this blog:

Organizing Around Appliances, Unsightly Equipment, and Other Things that Ruin Decor

 Apartment Moving

Hoarding Again? Do You Just Have Too Much Stuff?

Nicholl McGuire is the owner and contributor of this blog.  Check out, What Else Can I Do on the Internet? for other inspirational things to help organize your life!

Common Items Anyone Can Use to Organize Household Goods

There should be many homes clean and organized given the sheer amount of time that has passed since the coronavirus policies went into effect, yet still one can’t find certain cleaning supplies in stores. In addition, consumers of big retail chains are given limited options when it comes to purchasing most sought-after household appliances.  However, there are those who still have no clue as to what to do when it comes to home cleaning and organizing specific items like shoes, cosmetics, apparel, small appliances, cords, tools, and dishware.

On this blog, you will find years of material related to organizing the smallest of things to the largest.  I personally started this blog when I found that I would be spending more time at home than outside of it due to parenting babies and small children.  Here’s some common items I have found most useful over the years.

1.      Under-the-bed storage bags and containers.  Out of view, so many small items were stored in those.  I had two dedicated to my shoes which I still use to date.  I didn’t forget about them being under the bed, because I stored what I knew I was going to use periodically in the bags and flat and rectangular shaped bins.

2.       Baby wipe containers.  I repurposed those to store everything from medicine tubes to sponges. I put those out of view in cabinets and the more decorated type were placed on shelving units.

3.       Twist ties.  Whether they were used for bread or garbage bags, they were often repurposed to seal or lock things up.  Some things the babies just didn’t need to get into.

4.       Plastic freezer bags.  These were repurposed and used to store a variety of things. From leftovers that could be frozen and reheated another time to Legos.  I liked that I could label and/or date them with a sharpie.

5.       Dryer sheets.  Every time I washed, these rarely got thrown away.  To date, I have a large fabric bag of them with holes that can be placed in a dryer all at once or used a few at a time for a variety of things such as: shoe fresheners, deter crawling insects and rodents, placed in a drawer for a fresh smell, or added to clothing stored in bins.

6.       Saving the original boxes that go to some potential collectible items.  Many children’s toys one day become valued treasures.  So, for years we have a large bin and bag dedicated to the most appealing toys.

7.       Plastic drawers for closets.  These have traveled with us from place-to-place.  We never found a living space that couldn’t fit these items.  They always end up in a closet creating additional storage space for our smaller items, linens, and other important things.

Whatever you buy, always ask yourself, “What else may I be able to use this item for?”  Take to the Internet and be inspired!

Nicholl McGuire is the blog owner and author of What Else Can I do on the Internet? and other useful books.

Organizing Sanitary Napkins, Tampons

There is no worse feeling then to be seated comfortably on the toilet only to find that you don’t have adequate supplies nearby.  Women all over the world find themselves in this difficult situation every now and again.  There is no one on the other side of the bathroom door that can bring their sanitary napkins or tampons.  They may have forgot to restock--uh oh!  A roommate may have taken the last one--oh no!  So how does one organize very important items for a very private matter conveniently and discreetly?

Drawers, Bins and Boxes

Consider placing them in a nearby drawer preferably by the toilet.  Organize by size or colors.  Do not overfill otherwise the napkins and possibly the tampons will fall behind the drawer into the cabinet underneath. 

Plastic drawers and bins or a fabric box (not see-through) placed underneath the sink by the toilet also is convenient.

Shelf Space over the Toilet

If you don’t have drawer space near the toilet and a box or bin takes up too much space underneath the bathroom sink, consider hiding them discreetly in a decorative box or bin on shelf space over the toilet.

Narrow Containers

A narrow container that is typically used for storing grains, cereals, or juice can be placed underneath the bathroom sink.  Think in terms of shapes and how much space you have when selecting containers.  Narrow containers are great space-savers and shaped perfectly for placing in cabinets.

Over the Door Hanger with an Attached Storage Bag

If there is no nearby shelf space and underneath the cabinet is maxed out, napkins and tampons can be stored in cosmetic bags then placed in a storage bag pocket.

No Shelf, Cabinet or Drawer in Guest Bathroom and Door Hanger Doesn’t Fit Door

A guest bathroom that doesn’t have drawer or cabinet space and a door hanger is out of the question, but does have an open space underneath the sink can be utilized.  Purchase a bathroom sink curtain and drape around.  Place sanitary napkins and tampons in a bin or container then place out of view behind the sink curtain.  You can also purchase an appealing plastic, three-drawer storage in a solid color.

Keep in mind the type of organizer you select will be based on how much space you have available and the supplies you use.  For instance, if you use sanitary napkins you would need something bigger, but if you use tampons your organizer might be quite small.  Remember, the smaller your organizer, the more often you will need to fill it up.  Happy organizing!

Nicholl McGuire is the owner of this blog and the author of What Else Can I Do on the Internet? and Black Friday, Cyber Monday Strategies to Use Year Round.

On Organizing a Tall Dresser

A typical bedroom has one or two nightstands, a vertical dresser (usually about six drawers), and a horizontal dresser with a mirror.  However, an individual or couple on a tight budget or who just doesn’t have many things avoids crowding one’s bedroom with large furniture.  So in this case a bed and a tall dresser might suffice with under-bed storage.  The tall dresser might be a focal point, impressively crafted with quiet, decorative knobs and slides smoothly as the user opens and closes it.

Inside is of most importance.  It is where the action happens.  If organized carefully and practically, it is a useful tool.  Not only beautiful to view on the outside, but smells and looks good on the inside too!

Photo by Justin Schüler on Unsplash

Take a look at all items that are still useful, those that are no longer befitting due to size, and others that need to be tossed.  Clear out all drawers.  Grab your air freshener, favorite perfume/cologne, or potpourri to freshen up the drawer.  Spray sparingly.  Potpourri is placed in a vented bag and left in drawer.

The Organizer should consider placing dividers inside the drawer first to store multiple items in a single drawer.  Underwear is neatly sorted and easy to view.  No more looking for socks under piles of bras and panties! 

Shirts and pants are folded.  Usually these items are stored in separate drawers due to space.  Drawers are never overstuffed; otherwise the furniture might wear faster and damage to the bottom due to weight.  Many items are lost behind the drawers as well.

Fabric bags that zip or are fastened closed are great for storing small items or favorites inside the drawer.  Jewelry boxes, pencil box size bins, and plastic fruit baskets are good for keeping other items such as: buttons, pens, sewing kits, stain remover pins, etc. in place.  Think:  all minute things related to clothes should be kept close--within reach.

A tall dresser is not limited to clothes.  The bottom or top drawer might hold clothing accessories, miscellaneous items, keepsakes, or treasured tools for hair, crafts, or practical household items.

If you plan to move out at times, you might want to place furniture sliders under it.  Sometimes items fall behind, so you may want to place a decorative item(s) to prevent anything stored on top from getting lost.  Also, be certain that your tall dresser doesn’t block the outlet, but if it does, you can connect an extension cord behind it before you flush it to a wall.

Nicholl McGuire, wife, mother, author and inspirational speaker.  When she isn't actively helping others with their life challenges, she owns, manages and contributes to this blog and others, see below:
thingstodobored.blogspot.com
parentsbabieschildren.blogspot.com
workplaceproblems.blogspot.com

Making Life a Bit Easier...some of my favorite organizers for small things, dirty clothes and books

18 gallon bin by Sterlite

These bins have been great tools to help with local and major moves across country.  We reinforced with packing tape around the sides.  Great for books!  If you store open liquid items, be sure to secure in plastic storage bags.  We also use to store items in the garage and no dirt or insects bother to get in.  We also use an insect repellent on the outside and install an electric repellent in the storage areas.  Click on the one below:

This is one of those classic desktop 4 drawer plastic organizers (length 14 inches high and about 3 inches in depth) that you don't see everywhere.  Nowadays there are more of these drawers without the swinging handles and there is an additional drawer.  I use them for pencils, pens, stapler, etc.-- small office items, greeting cards, stamps, miscellaneous stuff.  Need one or a few? See here.

Laundry storage cart with wheels

What I love about this laundry organizer is no need to sort before you wash your clothes--a great time-saver!

Check out an organizer similar to the one photographed. Heavy duty 4 bag...  

As seen in photo this 6 foot black book case - always will be one of my favorites!  Children are much older now so no worries about them climbing the shelves--they did in the past with another, so I had to get rid of it :) 

Those navy blue toy bins with the Pixar car images came from a toy organizer they once had.  You can see a similar car bin plastic organizer--this is great for storing those toy men and cars.  They learned early (2 and 3 years) to pick up their items off the floor.  The photograph above is the 11 year old's handy work. 

Plastic storage locker bins and plastic rectangular storage tray baskets. 

You can find these at Dollar tree!

Here's to your success organizing this year and staying organized!

Nicholl McGuire, Blog Owner

So Over the Holidays - Decluttering Time!

The boxes, bags, red and green bins, saved gift wrap, holiday decor...is it necessary to keep year after year even when you don't celebrate anymore?  "But what if," your mind says and there you go saving things you just don't need.

I recalled looking for places to store my items and others back when I used to celebrate as many holidays as I could without a care for space.  I had my share of items in closets, drawers and even under the bed, but that all changed when I set out to learn more about each holiday.

The issue of where to place something was no longer a struggle.  I have one bin for birthday stuff now since I still have a couple young children who don't want to do away with all holidays just yet.  I have a small shelf space under a cabinet for some New Year's items.  One of my children tried to persuade me into buying Xmas decor, nope.  My response, "Make your own or take your allowance and buy some."  I guess his request wasn't that important because he smiled and went off to another aisle in the store.  Another child couldn't care less because he didn't want to be called upon to do too much of anything related to holidays.

When I reflected on the years of money spent on the holidays, the eye rolls from partners' when I asked for their service or financial assistance, I realize it wasn't worth the headache afterward.  It wasn't just about organizing clutter but organizing finances too!  No help in sight, so I stopped carrying that burden.

As you look around for yet another place to store an item this year, ask yourself, "Do I really need this?  Is it worth the time, space and energy?"  If you are truly dedicated to making some changes in your home organizing, you will find that many things just aren't worth keeping.

Here's to a wonderful year of being clutter free!

Nicholl McGuire is the author of What Else Can I Do on the Internet? and the blog owner.

On Organizing the Back to School Shopping Trip, Supplies

So here we are again planning for another back to school shopping trip.  The weekends will be busy especially as it gets closer to mid-August when many students will arrive with backpacks and lunch boxes on that first day back.  Below is a list of many items that will be needed as well as some tips

to make your shopping trip a bit easier.

1.  Find out how much money you are willing to spend this year on back to school items by listing your important expenses and then redirecting money that would have spent on less important things into a back to school savings fund.  You can also determine the budget amount by taking a look at what the children presently need (go in closets, drawers, under beds, etc.)  Then researching online the cost of certain things.  For instance, if new pencils is on your list, ask what style might they want as well as the school requirement which is typically Dixon or Ticonderoga pencil brands.  Check for them and then note the cost.  Do the same with other things.

2.  When shopping for clothes, plan in advance what they will need to add to their wardrobe rather than overwhelming yourself with buying a lot of new items all at once.  You can extend the back to school shopping season by taking care to pay attention to what items are currently on sale.  For instance, many summer items will be heavily discounted and they can be paired with other things they might already have like: sweaters, sweatshirts, jeans, and skirts.  Check out my book Black Friday Cyber Monday Strategies to Use Year Round

3.  Don't forget to ask relatives and friends to pitch in when they can.  Rather than, buy gifts that have little to do with what your child needs, encourage them to give things that are beneficial to school.  From a gift card to a favorite clothing store to a brand new pair of shoes, suggest things that not only benefit your child, but your wallet too!

Here are some popular back to school items for any grade:

1.  Folder size backpack (There are schools that recommend not buying the backpacks with wheels).

2.  Pocket folders (various types with brads, plastic, etc.)

3.  Binders

4. Glue sticks and/or bottled glue

5.  Student scissors

6.  Personal pencil sharpeners

7.  Glue sticks

8.  Crayons

9.  Highlighters

10.  Washable markers

11. Flash drives

12. Erasers

13. Colored pencils

14.  Spiral notebooks

15.  Dry erase markers

16.  Rulers

17.  Home or laptop computer with Internet access

18. Pencils

19.  Pencil top erasers

20.  Composition book

Other supplies that parents and others typically donate:

1.  Xerox paper
2. Hand sanitizer
3.  Kleenex
4.  Clorox wipes
5. Zip lock bags

Now organizing all these supplies can be simple if you do the following:

1.  Designate a drawer, shelf or cabinet to your items.

2.  Sort by category.

3.  Label shelves, bins, or containers.

4.  Separate the items that will be going to school and those that will be staying home.  Place items going to school in backpack.

5.  Be sure small items have an easy to find home.

6.  Avoid the clutter, if you already have some items that no longer work, broken, or hasn't been used in years, rid yourself of them.  Make room for the new!

7.  Lastly, self-talk yourself out of buying more than you need.  Do you really need a box of 50 glue sticks or a 100 plus pencils.  If you should buy in bulk, consider sharing with other parents or teachers.  If you should buy a lot of certain items, do consider that over time things like markers will go bad, glue will dry out, and sometimes cheap paper even starts to discolor.  Try not to obtain more than you need. 

Happy shopping!

Nicholl McGuire

Spring Cleaning Checklist

Checking in with my fellow organizers.  Have you started your spring cleaning yet?  Well if not, here is a list to help you get started.

1.  Computer document, music, pictures, cookie, temp, and other stuff taking up hard drive space.
2.  Phone storage --dumping useless stuff including apps you don't use.
3.  Digital camera (for the old school) when do you plan on transferring or printing out photos from like 2010?
4.  Vacuuming (and shampooing) all rooms (including vents, baseboards, ceilings, and light fixtures, behind and under furniture).
5.  Wiping walls, doors, knobs and light switches.
6.  Dusting all those dust collectors including shelf units.
7.  Closets (removal of old clothes, useless shoes, etc.)
8.  Cabinets (how many containers, cups, pots, etc. do you really need?)
9.  Drawers (so that's where your stuff has been hiding?)
10.  Paper files (wouldn't it be best just to scan them and then pitch?)
11.  Tools (are you really using all that stuff?)
12.  Books (someone can read those).

Thing of some more stuff you have yet to do...happy spring cleaning!

Ideas for Using a Labelmaker

So you can think of a few things you might use a label-maker for, but is it really worth buying a quality one?  Yes!  I made the mistake buying a cheap piece of equipment and found that every other time I used it, I needed to replace batteries.  If you should buy one, get the kind that comes with an adapter.  Also, if you think you might want to do some fun things using labels, you definitely want one with cool features.  Here are some things you can do with your label maker:

1.  Label file folders.
2.  Electronics.
3.  Identify specific cords.
4.  Use to mark children's pencil boxes, notebooks, books, pocket folders, etc.
5.  Post on mailing boxes.
6.  Gifts.
7.  Seal envelopes.
8.  Food organizers.
9.  Shelves.
10. Plastic bins.
11. Drawers.
12.  Jars.

I found reasonably priced label makers at Walmart, K-mart, and similar discount stores.  Once again, avoid the inexpensive ones if you plan on using yours quite often.  Avoid shopping at specialty stores for items like these, they are over priced.  If you want cash back for your online purchases, join this site.

6 Tips on Making the Best Use of Your Shelves with Safety Reminder

Ever watch a television program and notice the bookshelves in the background?  They usually have a few decorations, some books neatly arranged, a few framed pictures, and a bowl, trinket, or vase taking up room on each shelf.  We know the average home has a lot more stuff in it then what is presented on television, so what to do?  Well if money is an issue, you are going to take what you have and maximize those empty areas on those shelves and don't worry so much about that clutter free look you see on TV.  You have a lot of stuff and you want to keep it all--I get it!

1.  Let's take a look at any shelf in your home.  Is it scaling up the wall?  If not, you could use some taller shelves or built-in units--they are great to view, spacious and easy to store items.  Get those that run up to the ceiling if you can.  But once again, if money is an issue, uh?  Well, let's start taking items off the pre-existing shelves and rearranging.

2.  Bowls, bins, baskets, boxes and more sitting on those shelves should be filled with your treasures.  No ifs, ands, or buts.  You want to keep your little items--you believe you will one day use them, so let's get creative.  Make those useless items already sitting on your shelves, useful.  Something should be in each and every one.  But be sure that like items are placed with like items.  So if I have some cool stuff I rarely use then there is no reason to leave them out on display.  I would tuck them away and label the top of the boxes if necessary, rather than the sides so that everyone who walks into the room isn't reading every name on the shelf.

3.  Check out your books.  Do they have to be arranged like the local library shelves?  Let's get creative with those good reads and make them lay flat, to the back, or used as a stackable art piece that we can put something on top of.

4.  Now what about those obscure things?  Can we hang something on them or in them?  Do they need to take up room on a shelf?  Is there another home for them, maybe on a small table near the shelves?  Maximizing space is getting rid of bulky items in places where you could add 10 little things as opposed to just one.

5.  So you are on a roll?  What are you going to do with some of those items you use all the time?  I say leave them out and make them easy to obtain.  If children use some of those things, then they need to be within reach.  Items that are forbidden to touch, store them up on higher shelves.

6.  Be sure to utilize safety cords that might be strapped to the back of tall book shelf units or you can make your own.  You wouldn't want them to tip and drop on your child or pet.  (Note: this happened to one of my kids who liked to climb on the shelves.  We put a security gate in the front of it to prevent that from happening again. Shelves are suspended to the wall.)

So your bookshelf project should be coming along.  Check out this site on organizing any shelves or drawers in your home--enjoy!

Nicholl McGuire also maintains When Mothers Cry and other blogs.

5 Things You Can Get Children to Organize

Sometimes we don't think about young children helping us when it comes to organization projects.  So following are some things you can get children to assist you with and reward them afterward with a fun trip, money, or most wanted item.

1.  Organize bedroom dresser drawers (socks, underwears...)
2.  Clear off toy shelves and put items back by type.
3.  Put items back in bins, containers, shelves etc.
4.  Organize desk drawers taking the time to put similar items in each drawer.
5.  Assist with organizing tools in garage, shed or basement. (This is for teens).

Think of some more ideas...Happy organizing!

Organize with Cardboard Boxes and Bins

There are plenty of ways to get drawers, closets and shelves organized without spending a lot on plastic bins.  Card boxes are still good selections.  With a bit of fabric, a glue gun, and some time, you can turn any card box into a great organizer.  Depending on your need, you can get card board boxes already cut, visit these sites below for ideas.


1. Paper mart - bin boxes


2. Target - line striped bins for inspiration on creating covers.


3. Uline - cardboard bins wide assortment


4. Amazon - open top bins


5. Pronto - comparison shopping, assorted cardboard boxes and bins from around the web.


Happy Organizing!


Nicholl McGuire

Places to Get Drawer Dividers

On this site, we often feature videos of organizer experts from around the web.  From the at-home mom to the organizer professional, all videos on organization are welcome here!  Today, we are listing popular sites where you can purchase items to help you with drawer organizing.


Target - has the diamond shape drawer organizer.  This is good for underwear.


Sears - provides quality organizers for storing tools.


Amazon - has expandable dresser drawer organizers giving you the ability to arrange items like you desire.


Bed Bath Beyond - offers the dream drawer divider.


If you are in the mood to create your own drawer dividers, here is one way, see here.


To your success organizing your dresser drawers!


Nicholl McGuire also maintains a blog entitled, When Mothers Cry.

Kitchen Organization: Counter Tops & Kitchen Drawers

12 Useful Decor for Your Bedroom

So you have some bedroom shopping to do?  What might you need to bring life to your bedroom?  Following are 12 useful things that you might find your bedroom lacks.  Take a moment to print this list or copy some of the things you might have forgot about.

1. Comforter set

A comfortable bed with beautiful bedding is key to making your bedroom worth walking into.  Don't pass on a quality, comfy bed set on sale.  It will definitely enhance your bedroom!

2. Nightstands

From holding your alarm clock to keeping your valuables close to you, they are definitely useful and will keep your room looking organized.

3. Lamps

What's a room without them?  Sometimes overhead lighting is too bright so a lamp comes in handy when you want the lighting dim.  If not needed, you might want to get a nightlight or both.  Nightlights keep you from stumbling at night.

4. Fan

This is necessary if you tend to have a hot bedroom and no AC.  Some people enjoy the breeze blowing on them while they sleep and will place the fan near a window on hot nights.

5. Drawers

Always handy and much needed when you have many clothing items, accessories and the like.

6. Desk

Sometimes when you don't want to be anywhere in your home, but in your bedroom to work, a small writing desk or large enough for a laptop or desk computer is most useful.  If space is limited elsewhere in your home, then you might have to use your bedroom as an office.  If you are not one for working in your bedroom, skip the desk.

7. Additional pillows

If you should ever want to work or read in your bed, additional pillows are so comfortable and help you to relax.

8. Wall décor

Brighten up a dull room with nice looking wall décor.  If you are ever sick in your room, you will find it calming to stare at an attractive art piece in your room.

9.  Throw rug

This is not a needed item, but if you notice a stain on your carpet that doesn't come up or you just want to add some color to a boring rug, why not get one?  If you enjoy sitting on the floor, get a throw rug that is comfy to touch.

10.  Shelf for collectibles

From reading items to keepsakes, they will need a place other than an unsightly box or bin.  Give your bedroom some life and yourself the motivation to enjoy your stuff again, invest in a shelf unit.

11. Small covered wastebasket

Sometimes you are emptying your pockets in your bedroom or have mail that needs a place to trash, keep your wastebasket near the door or next to a desk.

12.  Organizers

Select closet, corner, over-the-door, or under-the-bed organizers based on what items you have the most of.  Items that needs to be stored away, use under-the-bed organizers or plastic bins for inside a closet.  If you have jewelry, consider a piece that holds your items in place.  Lots of shoes? Invest in a rack or bins.

Enjoy your shopping experience and feel free to come back and share with our readers!

Nicholl McGuire also maintains many other blogs including When Mothers Cry, Face Your Foe, and Laboring to Love an Abusive Mate.

14 Things You Just Might Not Think to Clean in Time for the Holiday Guests

Excitement about a future holiday gathering can cause everyone involved to have a one track mind, so to speak when it comes to prepping for guests.  Most hosts will think about the obvious things that need to be organized, cleaned, rearranged, or removed, but sometimes there are those other things that are often overlooked and can reveal problems that you just might not want your guests to know about.

1.  Coat closet.

Who would bother to pay that close attention to a coat closet?  It isn't that one would care that much.  But first impressions are long-lasting, so depending on who is coming over and how much stuff they might be bringing, it would make sense to organize your coat closet and any other.  Coats need space.  Some don't look nice wrinkled.  Others might have unsightly odors, would you want yours tightly squeezed with the stinky coat? 


2.  Walls, living room upholstery and carpets.

One of the first things people notice upon entering one's home are furniture, carpet and sometimes walls especially bright ones.  If there are noticeable stains, they can be an eyesore.  So don't forget to spruce them up.  There are many cleaning products that one can get to clean upholstery and carpet.  Check for items that contain Scotch guard, this will help prevent a stain in case your guests accidentally spill liquids or food on your furniture.

3.  Top of refrigerator and inside it including vegetable and fruit storage drawers.

These drawers are sometimes overlooked because they always have something in them, but when you are expecting company you might want to check them.  Be sure to remove old containers of food, produce bags, etc.  They tend to leave an odor every time the refrigerator is opened and closed.  Consider purchasing baking soda and other types of products that keep down refrigerator and freezer odors that can affect the way your food tastes.

4.  The range hood of your stove.

Dust and grease gets trapped on the top and inside the screen that collects grease.  Take the small screen out and let it soak in a good cleaner that will loosen up grease.  Take a cloth dipped in cleaner and wipe the fan.

5.  Inside your microwave.

Some people just don't think about the poor microwave.  Spill after spill, grease, hair, crumbs--you name it in the microwave.  Just imagine, your host offering to heat your food, and surprise, "What the?  I changed my mind, don't bother heating my food,"  your guest says with a look of disgust.

6.  Behind the doors of your rooms and along your baseboards.

When one is vacuuming, he or she doesn't think about those corner areas and so in time they begin to collect all sorts of dust balls and debris.  Take a moment to use a detachable hose connected to a vacuum to suck those items up in corners and along the baseboards.  If you don't have one, use a damp cloth, wipe and pick up with a broom, one's hand or a portable vacuum.

7.  Drawers in your living room area that are easily accessible to your guests.

A stuffed drawer can be an eyesore and also embarrassing if private items are stored in it where all eyes can see.  Open up those cabinets and drawers in the living room, taking great care to remove clutter and put away items that might be considered offensive.

8.  Medicine cabinet.

Expired items, things one never uses, and so much more can be found in a medicine cabinet.  Put the things away you don't want anyone to know about, so that your visitors aren't whispering behind your back, "Did you know she is on that medicine...wow she must be really messed up...I heard..."  Get the point?

9.  Inside and outside bathroom cabinet and drawers.

Host will be sure to have the bathroom fixtures and counter tops sparkling, but forget that sometimes busybodies like to peek in cabinets and drawers.  If something is needed to clean the bathroom or deodorize it after an accident, the guest will have a problem trying to find it if everything is stuffed beyond capacity.

10.  Toilet especially around it and behind it.

How many times have you seen a nasty, smelly toilet?  Sometimes people will remember to clean the seat and the inside, but what about around it and behind it.  Drippings should be cleaned up, they can be seen if the bathroom light hits them right.

11.  Around the shower door and other crevices around the bathroom.

Mold and mildew can hide just about anywhere, but in the bathroom is definitely a sign to guests of uncleanliness.  Purchase mold and mildew cleaners and also bleach.  Before you know it, your whole bathroom will just sparkle.  It doesn't hurt to touch it up with a few bathroom accents or a paint job, if needed.

12.  Dusting including wiping off or changing items that have sat awhile ie.) bedding, drapery, heating/cooling vents, and fans.

Ever been somewhere where you know no one has changed the bedding for months and didn't bother to vacuum?  The dust can be overwhelming and don't mention the dust mites, ugh!  Start taking some items down and washing like the screen covers for the bathroom fan, living room, and kitchen area if need be.  Change heating and cooling air filters, so that your guests who have environmental allergies aren't aggravated.  Steam clean if necessary items like drapery and upholstery.  There are some great, affordable steam cleaners that will help with your steam cleaning tasks.

13.  Patio area.

A great place to entertain your guests when the weather is expected to be nice and also a good place for smokers.  Make it comfortable for your visitors.  Put away unsightly looking things, add a tad bit of holiday decor and seating along with ash trays, and before you know it, you have one nice area to kindly escort some loved ones to.

14.  Basement/Attic.

Who would go up there?  You might think, but sometimes you never know.  Maybe you need someone to get a special something from any one of those places, but there is far too much stuff for that person to get around.  On a cold winter day, a house can get stuffy especially when one hadn't anticipated so many little visitors.  The attic or basement can be a great place for children to bring toys and play without being the center of attention amongst some stressed adults.  Pack up those collectibles, donate some items, organize some of your miscellaneous goods, and make room for the kids, just in case.

Now that you have 14 simple things to check around your home, you just might find a few more.  When your loved ones mean the most to you, it is always best to do more for their comfort, than less.  Cleaning can be overwhelming, but it is better to be talked about for the great time everyone had and how you treated them, then to be remembered for having the unclean, disorganized and cluttered home.

Nicholl McGuire author of When Mothers Cry and other books.  See blog here.