tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-63561991682102303652024-02-06T18:46:31.045-08:00Simply Organized HomemakingKatyhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/03118653637763160580noreply@blogger.comBlogger46125tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6356199168210230365.post-89170179711357537882014-08-21T10:28:00.002-07:002014-08-21T10:28:40.381-07:00My *Tool* Box<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
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I have a few things that I take with me in the house...if I am upstairs....it goes with me. If I am downstairs...it goes with me. Inside I keep things I use throughout the day....such as:</div>
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~ My Filofax Planner</div>
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~ Our Family Devotions/Catechism book </div>
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~ Pens/Stickers</div>
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~ My Bible</div>
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~ Books I am currently reading</div>
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~ My weekly menu planner</div>
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~ Lotion</div>
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Previously, I carried all these things in a market tote like <a href="http://www.amazon.com/Collapsible-foldable-picnic-lightweight-Aluminum/dp/B00F2HRZ36/ref=pd_sim_ac_17?ie=UTF8&refRID=1Y97ZSC7Q2PRYEA8KWTQ">THIS</a> one. That worked just fine but wasn't "ideal". Things weren't neatly separated and were just *in* there. It was <i>okay</i>...but when I saw this <a href="http://www.amazon.com/Neatnix-Tool-Box-Polka-Brown/dp/B00B511U2K/ref=sr_1_2?ie=UTF8&qid=1408640991&sr=8-2&keywords=neatnix+toolbox">Neatnix Toolbox</a> on sale at <a href="http://www.zulily.com/">Zulily</a>, I was super excited (it's a bit on the pricey side at amazon...but if you are interested, you may find it cheaper on ebay....or Zulily may still have some for sale!)! </div>
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It is sturdy and easy to carry by the handle! I just love all the space it has!</div>
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There are all kinds of organizational pockets on the front...</div>
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...With two larger pockets on the back...</div>
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There are even pockets on the sides that (to my delight) fit my lotion <i>perfectly</i>!</div>
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How do you organize things you use constantly throughout the day? I used to keep things in different baskets over the years...but the weight of the items would wear on the basket over time and damage it. I am so glad to have found something that is perfect for the use I am giving it! </div>
Katyhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/03118653637763160580noreply@blogger.com7tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6356199168210230365.post-12931029178495238032014-08-13T08:20:00.001-07:002014-08-13T08:20:01.988-07:00Daily Tasks<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
Did you know that doing a few tasks daily will keep your spirits high, your home looking tidier and actually motivate you to do *more*? It's true! </div>
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<span style="font-size: large;"><b>A few things to do *every* day...</b></span><br />
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<span style="font-size: large;">* Clear and wipe down kitchen counters.</span><br />
<span style="font-size: large;">* Clear and wipe down bathroom counter.</span><br />
<span style="font-size: large;">* Make your bed. </span><br />
<span style="font-size: large;">* Wash/Dry, Fold/Put away at least *one* load of laundry.</span><br />
<span style="font-size: large;">* Sweep floors </span>(this is necessary for us to do daily...but may not be for you!)<br />
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You don't have to have the newest and fanciest counters. You don't have to have the nicest or fanciest house. Keep what you have...no matter what the age/style of your home (even if it is not to your liking)...tidy and clean and you can enjoy your surroundings!<br />
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If you do nothing else...at least make your bed in the morning. That is *the* way to start the day off correctly! I am always up before my husband in the mornings...so after he has left for work, I go back upstairs and make the bed. I've tried to make it with him in it..but that doesn't work out so well! ;)<br />
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When you keep the counters of the kitchen and bathroom clear and wiped up, they just look nicer...plus when they look neat, you won't want stray dishes or spills on them to make them look dirty...this motivates you to keep them looking nice throughout the day. And hey, while you are wiping down that bathroom counter, maybe you want to refill the soap dispenser? Maybe you could give the toilet a swish as well?<br />
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I'm telling you...these few simple chores, done daily, can really help you in your home-keeping duties! Adding in a few extra chores from time to time such as dusting, washing windows/mirrors, washing bed linens, scrubbing down toilets and bathtubs etc....and you will find that keeping the home doesn't have to be so overwhelming!<br />
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Keeping up with things is *key*!</div>
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<a _blank="" href="http://www.awisewomanbuildsherhome.com/" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img alt="a-wise-woman-builds-her-home" border="0" src="http://i597.photobucket.com/albums/tt60/junefuentes/mombutton1med_zpsbce98aed.jpg" /></a></div>
Katyhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/03118653637763160580noreply@blogger.com4tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6356199168210230365.post-24189730237887256542014-08-12T13:50:00.001-07:002014-08-12T13:53:29.676-07:00Memory Totes<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
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When I saw these "<a href="http://www.abowlfulloflemons.net/2013/07/keepsake-boxes.html">Keepsake Boxes</a>" I thought they would be a GREAT idea for my children's memory items as well. I decided to put one together for each of them. I don't have a <a href="http://www.countryporch.com/darice/view.asp?item=PV29-0001&gclid=CMrX-uHIjsACFSxk7AodAywAPw">Cricut cutter</a> machine...so I just used my label maker to put names on the bins. I typically color-code things for my children though anyway (Madelyn gets a purple or pink typically, Xavier gets green and Jaxson is usually blue)...so just by glancing at it, I know which tote belongs to which child even without a large name tag.<br />
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I also paid for some hanging file folders. I already had some of the not-so-beautiful green ones (pictured above) and put those to use too...buying the totes and the file folders wasn't all-together cheap when you need three....so I reuse what I have on hand. :)<br />
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Because we home school (and are not involved in a bunch of different sports etc.) our sections are different than those of Toni's from A Bowl Full of Lemons. I am not finished with the sections we will use...but what I have so far is:<br />
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~ <b>Photos</b> (from our homeschool co-op pictures etc.)<br />
~ <b>Medical</b> (forms and things needed for proof to the school)<br />
~ <b>Home School Completed Portfolio Verification</b> (papers from the school's superintendant saying our portfolios are complete from each year of schooling)<br />
~ <b>Testing</b> (standardized test results)<br />
~ <b>Grade School</b> (drawings/worksheets from through the years...this may need to be changed over time to allow more room for papers...we'll see!)<br />
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I also bought one extra tote for my filing records. I had them in a filing cabinet that was not in the best condition. Now they are safe and secure in one of these totes and give me easy access to my records (A few of the papers need tucked in there better!)...<br />
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Stored ~ Safe and sound in the school room...</div>
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How do you store your children's records/memories?Katyhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/03118653637763160580noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6356199168210230365.post-50271224175729848172014-08-05T14:59:00.002-07:002014-08-05T14:59:46.398-07:00Organizing Legos<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
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My daughter and I (mostly her though) went through and sorted all the Legos. I bought inexpensive shoe bins at the dollar store and labeled them with my label maker. </div>
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We are hoping that will take boxes that look like this...</div>
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...and turn them into this (thus making it easier to find the pieces they want)...</div>
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In the box marked "extra" we put min-figs, swords, horses, bow/arrows and other miscellaneous items that go along with the Legos!</div>
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With grade-school boys, I'm not sure how this will work for us...but it is worth giving it a try! They both seem to like this new system (but we'll see if it lasts as time wears on). Personally, I love seeing the colors separated and *in their place*...but if it doesn't work out over time, we can find good uses for the plastic shoe boxes and the Legos can all go back into one bin! :)</div>
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Do your children play with Legos? I think they are such a *great* learning/playing toy. Imaginations soar, minds work to think and build...Legos are truly one of the best investments (toy-wise) in my opinion. How do you store/organize your Legos? </div>
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<br />Katyhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/03118653637763160580noreply@blogger.com3tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6356199168210230365.post-34946426208367675302014-07-30T08:26:00.000-07:002014-07-30T08:26:03.137-07:00Homeschool *or* Office Supply Organization<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgPEuefMEuroY0IPXUksYf0o_548BTTpCNK_ibxZGSSI4VvNmGRgkcJuoBho_oJsCxCs19ugHFAUAm4lkn6K7N5bj6sAmvygtUEw2HlHG2rU0mqbDXQv2hqbqlH2EZlYli2cBCMOgS6ElE/s1600/IMG_9358.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgPEuefMEuroY0IPXUksYf0o_548BTTpCNK_ibxZGSSI4VvNmGRgkcJuoBho_oJsCxCs19ugHFAUAm4lkn6K7N5bj6sAmvygtUEw2HlHG2rU0mqbDXQv2hqbqlH2EZlYli2cBCMOgS6ElE/s1600/IMG_9358.JPG" height="412" width="640" /></a></div>
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I want to start this post by saying that whether I used a flash or not with my camera, the boxes do not seem to be very photogenic. They look much better in real life...you'll just have to trust me on that! ;) Also, a few of my labels aren't straight...I have fixed and re-fixed them and sometimes, you just have to leave it be!<br />
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Last year, we used these bins to separate all of my children's school workbooks. This year, since we are mostly using <a href="http://allinonehomeschool.com/">Easy Peasy</a>, we will only have math workbooks to keep organized. I couldn't let good storage space go to waste...so I utilized the drawers to store my multitude of supplies. Now, notebooks, paper, dividers, folders, reference charts, page protectors and more have their own drawer!<br />
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEii65gLR-WwUEwJVMQCu8kN7TnCI-R3CaG-fUGxiEULuBnKvlOfCSmASVDBE-J3kVwB7swFjI0wBtuXPMDIUeo-y-Hb755Fnv6uaJjVH8s_vRUeBNuYRO-95SmrdzNd3o4smBthia-MdEA/s1600/IMG_9359.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEii65gLR-WwUEwJVMQCu8kN7TnCI-R3CaG-fUGxiEULuBnKvlOfCSmASVDBE-J3kVwB7swFjI0wBtuXPMDIUeo-y-Hb755Fnv6uaJjVH8s_vRUeBNuYRO-95SmrdzNd3o4smBthia-MdEA/s1600/IMG_9359.JPG" height="480" width="640" /></a></div>
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Anytime someone needs a new folder or blank notebook...they know just where to get them!<br />
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Extra supplies (purchased from Staples during their school clearance!)...<br />
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The children's workbooks fit perfectly in each drawer!<br />
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjRNGpKIimFGpsmuGXTqeZsnuh3RFNghnJcYopjt_5oRWznL4Xq3NpTuMQ98NuPGgIoEzEC2txPcksEzx9WuOKDk85moM2GRF4f4wfUiioRfu7FHbrDXrkn507ssr6A1G6u3dHHGH227Js/s1600/IMG_9356.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjRNGpKIimFGpsmuGXTqeZsnuh3RFNghnJcYopjt_5oRWznL4Xq3NpTuMQ98NuPGgIoEzEC2txPcksEzx9WuOKDk85moM2GRF4f4wfUiioRfu7FHbrDXrkn507ssr6A1G6u3dHHGH227Js/s1600/IMG_9356.JPG" height="640" width="480" /></a></div>
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These drawers can be pricey...but not too bad if you watch for them to go on sale. You can find something similar to the one I have <a href="http://www.amazon.com/Blue-Hills-Studio-Storage-Multi-Color/dp/B002GAVGSC/ref=sr_1_11?ie=UTF8&qid=1406733567&sr=8-11&keywords=drawers+cart">HERE</a>. You can find the exact ones I have <a href="http://www.joann.com/storage-cart-with-6-drawers-smoke/2348233.html#q=cart+drawers&start=4">HERE</a>.<br />
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We have found these drawers to be a great organizing tool to keep in our schoolroom. They would work really well in an office setting too! And again, they look much better in real life than in the photos! The pictures seem to show every flaw!<br />
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***You may notice in the first photo, a pair of shoes just inside the door...right now, we have four extra kiddos visiting at our house. I didn't move the shoes...I like just keeping it real! ;)<br />
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<br />Katyhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/03118653637763160580noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6356199168210230365.post-83690633378347320312014-07-28T17:10:00.001-07:002014-07-28T17:10:37.077-07:00Simple Jar Decorating<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjiSDCn6GT9SEc91T1eCFq3OsqnaADI5ia31MUAWr_Tsfg-bw6JagDNRanAsvWBGFuQCZVj8bRGGRs9MXCB7FmJ4FyU8N9ooU0Ipf62pzAxrG1HQO6hlt4o3yFZqRg5O_HfR2Ly_aXwC8g/s1600/IMG_9347.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjiSDCn6GT9SEc91T1eCFq3OsqnaADI5ia31MUAWr_Tsfg-bw6JagDNRanAsvWBGFuQCZVj8bRGGRs9MXCB7FmJ4FyU8N9ooU0Ipf62pzAxrG1HQO6hlt4o3yFZqRg5O_HfR2Ly_aXwC8g/s1600/IMG_9347.JPG" height="640" width="480" /></a></div>
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I had posted about the many ways to use glass jars in your home to decorate, organize and add a touch of charm to a room. You can find that post <a href="http://simplyorganizedhomemaking.blogspot.com/2014/07/using-glass-jars-in-your-home.html">HERE</a>.<br />
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For <a href="http://countryblossom.blogspot.com/2014/07/shes-thirteen.html">my daughter's birthday</a>, we used jars as table centerpieces and my sister made these simple, eyelet decor to put around the top of a jar! I love eyelets and the look it gives the jars!<br />
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh7Xi3wxCSfqHVBY-wJ9k7QUhEALOoNeno3VyhIjVu3OnKc9FeeJyJ1ITpRcVcwPhD54RzY2F2CgD4cT8FL_H_IeZUUmN4l47kmPdcfw9wEzaXPO55vqEoRb5jOo1SElJlXctES0Auv4VU/s1600/IMG_9348.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh7Xi3wxCSfqHVBY-wJ9k7QUhEALOoNeno3VyhIjVu3OnKc9FeeJyJ1ITpRcVcwPhD54RzY2F2CgD4cT8FL_H_IeZUUmN4l47kmPdcfw9wEzaXPO55vqEoRb5jOo1SElJlXctES0Auv4VU/s1600/IMG_9348.JPG" height="480" width="640" /></a></div>
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She simply measured around the top of a jar and cut the eyelet accordingly. Then, she sewed snaps to the ends so they can easily be removed!<br />
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhFhtazUlL_MKs5Fn7feLl4I11z0bDnXDqEzrLzaGdplXdY8astsMMQWPlGz3nVaJpbpG9Enu_EaIc3uCdruC_4a0AQInnLHFVwSveluwEhvazY-kVVhzJY6eUaRsJmRKVyefVxBmSzQwg/s1600/IMG_9349.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhFhtazUlL_MKs5Fn7feLl4I11z0bDnXDqEzrLzaGdplXdY8astsMMQWPlGz3nVaJpbpG9Enu_EaIc3uCdruC_4a0AQInnLHFVwSveluwEhvazY-kVVhzJY6eUaRsJmRKVyefVxBmSzQwg/s1600/IMG_9349.JPG" height="480" width="640" /></a></div>
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Adding a touch of charm to your home doesn't have to take a lot of money or talent (although my sister *is* talented...but sewing the snaps on is something anyone could do!). You could do this for your own home...or make some jars as gifts. You can fill the jars with jar cookie mixes, a favorite candy, or anything else that is fun! Add a touch of eyelet, lace or scraps of fabric around the top and that could make a super-cute gift for a friend! :)<br />
<br />Katyhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/03118653637763160580noreply@blogger.com2tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6356199168210230365.post-20011127344872694982014-07-24T07:14:00.000-07:002014-07-24T07:14:06.358-07:00The Difference a Hanger Can Make!<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi1-LsEFM_chlLsEAK24gV3FhQy9qQ7wnSTkRipcgrgUcOlhf8toDK1vb8sGBS6yR9wJrzxYYVh8HEBPEBz-Ks7Dv9r5-z-sdD0YdlWCFv-gEvJmWV-KHI9HblTO1-nsNOpn9ziogmPHB4/s1600/IMG_9249.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi1-LsEFM_chlLsEAK24gV3FhQy9qQ7wnSTkRipcgrgUcOlhf8toDK1vb8sGBS6yR9wJrzxYYVh8HEBPEBz-Ks7Dv9r5-z-sdD0YdlWCFv-gEvJmWV-KHI9HblTO1-nsNOpn9ziogmPHB4/s1600/IMG_9249.JPG" height="472" width="640" /></a></div>
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Let me start off by saying I am *not* a fan of animal print. I never have been. If you like it, that is totally okay! I am just not wild about it for myself or my household. That being said, I am sure you noticed that the hangers in the photo above are an animal print! Let me explain why! </div>
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I had been wanting to get matching hangers to hang our clothes. I wanted decent ones that didn't slip (doesn't it just drive you crazy when you are looking through your clothes and a shirt slides right off the hanger when you don't want it to?). I also did *not* want to spend a fortune.</div>
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So, I had found gotten an email that tells me deals/sales from around the web. One was for these hangers. For the 60 pc. set, I could get it for $10 off (for a total of only $17.99) and free shipping! I thought that was a great price. Then, I looked at the 120 pc. set and it was not on sale...but was only $27.99 and free shipping! If I would have bought 2 sets of the 60 pc. with the sale price, I would have been paying over $34...When I could get the 120 pc. set that *wasn't* on sale for cheaper! </div>
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Unfortunately, they only had animal print hangers for sale. I decided to get them anyway. These fit the budget and although not my style, they do look so nice when they all match.</div>
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You can find them <a href="http://www.vminnovations.com/Product_62158/120-Piece-Non-Slip-Velvet-Clothes-Hanger-Set-w-Clips-Hooks-and-Bag.html">HERE</a>. </div>
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We had a mish-mash of hangers before...(which we still have with some of Chris's clothes as I don't have enough of the velvet/non-slip hangers for all our clothes yet) and even though things were hung up neatly...it just looked messy with some metal hangers, some plastic etc.<br />
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It is really amazing the difference hangers can make! </div>
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<br />Katyhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/03118653637763160580noreply@blogger.com3tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6356199168210230365.post-6283894778608855572014-07-21T13:39:00.001-07:002014-07-21T13:39:27.453-07:00Cleaning the Bathtub <br />
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Cleaning the bathtub is a dreaded but necessary chore. In our home, with 5 people bathing constantly (and two of those being boys that are dirt-magnets) the tub can get dirty...fast! We have an older, claw foot tub. It does not do well with bleaches or harsh chemicals (plus, who wants to use that stuff anyway?). </div>
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I am going to share with you what *I* use to clean my tub. These ingredients (plus a lot of elbow grease) help to keep my tub sparkling (well, as close as we can get. With this being an older tub, it still holds onto some of it's stains from years past).<br />
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I fill my hand-dandy <a href="http://www.mrsmeyers.com/product/All-Purpose-Bucket/155796.uts">Mrs. Meyer's Bucket</a> (which has been well-used) with warm water and some <a href="http://www.mrsmeyers.com/product/Basil-Multi-Surface-Concentrate/155926.uts">Mrs. Meyer's Basil All Purpose Cleaner</a> and swish it around until I have great-smelling, sudsy, warm water! (I put the bucket right in the tub while I am scrubbing!) I sprinkle some borax and baking soda (which I keep in an old parmesan cheese container...notice it needs refilled...) onto the surface of the tub. Then...using my scrubby sponge and a lot of muscle...I scrub and scrub until clean.<br />
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I didn't really think about making a post about this until *after* the fact...so unfortunately, I don't have any before photos. But this is basically, as nice as this tub gets (a good cleaning on a newer tub could end up perfectly, sparkling white!)...</div>
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If you have a cast iron claw foot tub, as I do, you may also find it helpful (for those stains that just won't go away no matter how hard you scrub) to make a paste of hydrogen peroxide and baking soda. Sprinkle the baking soda on the stain(s). Then add just enough hydrogen peroxide to make a paste. Let it sit a while...when you come back to it...scrub and rinse! It should help that tub to sparkle! :)</div>
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I would love to hear any *bathtub* cleaning tips *you* may have to share!!! :)</div>
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<br />Katyhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/03118653637763160580noreply@blogger.com6tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6356199168210230365.post-14284574981548391242014-07-20T04:19:00.001-07:002014-07-20T04:19:48.969-07:00Dollar Store Organization<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEibplHAtKhWTInnkzvYSlUMNqW99NTPlEEOtkC7l93_MmlR7VGmKYEFZ-8HV1EZBnImEc-wJyCkMLMOr0A35Pk8g613BAwuQjMjBH1CDmfgxghJSCC2UdPtl_xlaRI1qM0t97K4AlUy7x8/s1600/SOH2.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEibplHAtKhWTInnkzvYSlUMNqW99NTPlEEOtkC7l93_MmlR7VGmKYEFZ-8HV1EZBnImEc-wJyCkMLMOr0A35Pk8g613BAwuQjMjBH1CDmfgxghJSCC2UdPtl_xlaRI1qM0t97K4AlUy7x8/s1600/SOH2.JPG" height="640" width="480" /></a></div>
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Organization does *not* have to be expensive! If you go to <a href="http://www.diyncrafts.com/2748/organization/150-brilliant-dollar-store-organizing-ideas-and-projects-for-the-entire-home/1">DIY & Crafts</a>, you can find a compilation of <a href="http://www.diyncrafts.com/2748/organization/150-brilliant-dollar-store-organizing-ideas-and-projects-for-the-entire-home/1">150 Dollar Store Organizing Ideas</a>! They have done all the searching for you, to find some of the greatest, inexpensive (and useful) organizing ideas for your entire home! When I found this site, I knew I just had to share it! :) Let me know if you put any of these ideas to use!!!Katyhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/03118653637763160580noreply@blogger.com3tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6356199168210230365.post-33185065054757207532014-07-15T10:20:00.000-07:002014-07-15T10:20:38.745-07:00Back to (Home) School <div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh4nMJY-V_Ds-W4DTwG8eJJsgeIJ6jdaGcXSs9j6I0rASYSRAC3YZaIRvvVAM2Aca7rX0aaA9bu5MhyphenhyphenNi_Z2aUuF9_wEm5cPq80g8XZaOmKLjYk5h4UrnpUtXTLz3q9W95DPCYuCRWkp5o/s1600/IMG_9026.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh4nMJY-V_Ds-W4DTwG8eJJsgeIJ6jdaGcXSs9j6I0rASYSRAC3YZaIRvvVAM2Aca7rX0aaA9bu5MhyphenhyphenNi_Z2aUuF9_wEm5cPq80g8XZaOmKLjYk5h4UrnpUtXTLz3q9W95DPCYuCRWkp5o/s1600/IMG_9026.JPG" height="480" width="640" /></a></div>
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I was so excited while at the thrift store one day, to find the fantastic binders from Staples there! They are my favorites but are much too expensive to ever buy them. I got each of these for under $1 (and they each had extra paper, dividers, page protectors and such in them)! What a steal! Obviously, they aren't brand new, but they will work terrifically for us!<br />
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Also, <a href="http://www.staples.com/">Staples</a> has their *Back to School* savings (at their stores and online). I picked up some supplies for our homeschooling for some really great, inexpensive prices! I have to admit...I am an office/school supply junkie!!!<br />
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I love to have a bin for things....everything in its place...<br />
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Homeschooling does <b>*not*</b> have to be expensive. Keep your eyes peeled for sales, clearances and at the thrift stores and you can come home with quite a lot (without spending a lot)!<br />
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For our curriculum, we will be using <a href="http://allinonehomeschool.com/">Easy Peasy</a> for most of our subjects. It is a free online homeschooling course for all ages. We are using Christian Light Education for our math, though, because we have been using it for years and I really like how it teaches things, reviews and builds on each other.<br />
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How are you saving money this year on back to (home) school needs?Katyhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/03118653637763160580noreply@blogger.com8tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6356199168210230365.post-88307226157015243352014-07-10T08:16:00.001-07:002014-07-10T08:16:30.544-07:00How To Get Rid of Ants<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
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Ants...they are fascinating creatures that God has made but oh, what a pain they can be in a homemaker's home....especially when you find them in the kitchen! I have a sure-fire way to get rid of those pesky creatures (and get to the root of the problem as well). You don't need to go spend a ton of money on chemicals! All you need is a little honey and borax!<br />
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Place a spoonful of honey on a piece of cardboard. Take a spoonful of borax powder and mix it (well) into the honey. Place the card where the ants are (away from children and pets though). Once one or two find it, after a while, you will have a circle of ants surrounding the blob of mixture. Don't bother them....leave them be. Over time, they will take the mix back to their home and spread it around...it will kill the whole colony...or it will kill enough that the queen ant will sense danger and move the whole colony!<br />
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Voila! Your ant problems are solved!! :) I hope this helps!Katyhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/03118653637763160580noreply@blogger.com3tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6356199168210230365.post-51492808275727925352014-07-03T10:38:00.000-07:002014-07-03T10:38:28.420-07:00Using Glass Jars in Your Home<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
Not only can you use mason jars to can your garden harvest, but you can make great use of them throughout your home! Using glass jars in your home is a frugal, great-looking way to decorate and organize! I love using different sizes of jars in my home for many different things! </div>
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Here are a few of the ways I use glass jars throughout my home...</div>
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Storing knitting needles...</div>
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For flowers (that I am lacking at the moment)...</div>
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For decoration...</div>
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Salt and pepper shakers...</div>
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Pen and pencil caddy (I *love* blue jars!)...</div>
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In the bathroom to hold potpourri, q-tips, cotton balls, and cough drops...</div>
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As a soap dispenser...</div>
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In the kitchen, using small jars is a great way to decorate a less-than-desirable oven hood...</div>
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Large jars are great for keeping bulk items...</div>
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Jars to drink from...</div>
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Around the house, jars can make great bases for lamps...</div>
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If you go <a href="http://www.care2.com/greenliving/50-great-uses-for-mason-jars.html">HERE</a> you can find 50 Great Uses for Mason Jars and if you go <a href="http://www.keeperofthehome.org/2012/04/31-ways-to-use-a-mason-jar-in-your-kitchen.html">HERE</a> you can find 31 more great uses for them!</div>
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What are some ways *you* make use of jars around your home? </div>
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Katyhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/03118653637763160580noreply@blogger.com4tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6356199168210230365.post-33070209296698579592014-05-14T15:58:00.000-07:002014-05-14T15:58:01.776-07:00Using Cloth Napkins<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiCa8b7WEdSBkDwZCkzCt5uMQnquYoGP9Jy8lQ-7VItugLWy-TA1kruxeLgzfCPedKV0g676zFvxbkvG3iyJBd8CeU0RuiLM-Vxg4C2OwxInXEu9fhHtMZr1oYCkfHh5Wg5dKo4Tz22X4I/s1600/IMG_8557.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiCa8b7WEdSBkDwZCkzCt5uMQnquYoGP9Jy8lQ-7VItugLWy-TA1kruxeLgzfCPedKV0g676zFvxbkvG3iyJBd8CeU0RuiLM-Vxg4C2OwxInXEu9fhHtMZr1oYCkfHh5Wg5dKo4Tz22X4I/s1600/IMG_8557.JPG" height="480" width="640" /></a></div>
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My family has used cloth napkins for years now. They are such a blessing! They save money, look nice and are great for the environment! Do you realize that when you go to a *nicer* restaurant, you are given cloth napkins! Treat yourself at home too! Not only will your meals seem more elegant but your wallet will thank you!<br />
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEixxoNapoI1FX9dk34vcpqAxMDRTNWJ3g2q8KIsF2k7iHfNEUa8cmCo1eeSC7ZTwvf1Bj27kAcdGGwcL2Hl-LKPD2IX9zCEh8LUEzFpaL8yOxP7AsMD-6kk6XNMEzJoOjcf7eYESZnohQ0/s1600/IMG_8559.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEixxoNapoI1FX9dk34vcpqAxMDRTNWJ3g2q8KIsF2k7iHfNEUa8cmCo1eeSC7ZTwvf1Bj27kAcdGGwcL2Hl-LKPD2IX9zCEh8LUEzFpaL8yOxP7AsMD-6kk6XNMEzJoOjcf7eYESZnohQ0/s1600/IMG_8559.JPG" height="480" width="640" /></a></div>
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I am a huge fan of ticking fabric (I love gingham too)! Aren't these blue ticking cloth napkins just lovely?<br />
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Although they aren't ironed right now, I *do* enjoy ironing our cloth napkins. It's easy to do and it makes them look so nice (especially if we are having company).<br />
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgfWg0WNkwL1MIJhIVQxYUbdSIyAcCvgUvPPX8FwRkQ19PWXYS1X5fpDYZgA0EQtOSi_UVOpdV7ysXrjUqzbVgm7yMndhEzAsfnbcQ6dZraHd3zvNUMKoiVItbE5K53XoC3_S_zfW8VsAQ/s1600/IMG_8562.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgfWg0WNkwL1MIJhIVQxYUbdSIyAcCvgUvPPX8FwRkQ19PWXYS1X5fpDYZgA0EQtOSi_UVOpdV7ysXrjUqzbVgm7yMndhEzAsfnbcQ6dZraHd3zvNUMKoiVItbE5K53XoC3_S_zfW8VsAQ/s1600/IMG_8562.JPG" height="640" width="480" /></a></div>
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Although you can easily sew your own, if you don't want to do that...definitely check out etsy! They have some super cute ones (although you may need to search around for a good price...some of them can be kinda pricey).<br />
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I like <a href="https://www.etsy.com/listing/90738568/napkins-red-french-ticking-stripe-cloth?ref=sr_gallery_30&ga_search_query=cloth+napkins&ga_ship_to=ZZ&ga_search_type=all&ga_view_type=gallery">THESE</a> red ticking ones...or <a href="https://www.etsy.com/listing/153884161/green-french-ticking-stripe-cloth?ref=listing-shop-header-2">THESE</a> green ones!<br />
<a href="https://www.etsy.com/listing/182359545/lot-of-12-pink-vintage-napkins-cloth?ref=sr_gallery_44&ga_search_query=cloth+napkins&ga_ship_to=ZZ&ga_search_type=all&ga_view_type=gallery">THIS</a> set of 12 pink vintage cloth napkins are a good price!<br />
<a href="https://www.etsy.com/listing/104119331/eat-cloth-napkins-screened-on-white?ref=sr_gallery_34&ga_search_query=cloth+napkins&ga_ship_to=ZZ&ga_search_type=all&ga_view_type=gallery">THIS</a> set of cloth napkins are screened with the word "eat"! How fun!<br />
Do you like the color yellow...or lemons, perhaps? If so, check out <a href="https://www.etsy.com/listing/50689797/cloth-napkins-15-inch-set-of-4-yellow?ref=sr_gallery_46&ga_search_query=cloth+napkins&ga_ship_to=ZZ&ga_page=2&ga_search_type=all&ga_view_type=gallery">THESE</a> cloth napkins!<br />
I am loving <a href="https://www.etsy.com/listing/95671536/eco-friendly-cloth-napkins-set-of-6-18?ref=sr_gallery_4&ga_search_query=cloth+napkins&ga_ship_to=ZZ&ga_page=5&ga_search_type=all&ga_view_type=gallery">THESE</a> black and white gingham check napkins!<br />
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We reserve these napkins for meals. To clean up spills we have other rags to use (paper towels are used sometimes for the really gross messes that inevitably happen from time to time in a family's life). Any dish cloths or dish towels that have faded from use over time end up retiring to the rag pile. They get used to dust, wash floors, windows and walls and clean up messes. :)<br />
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Eco & budget friendly!<br />
Do you use cloth? Why or why not?<br />
<br />Katyhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/03118653637763160580noreply@blogger.com11tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6356199168210230365.post-49842015286778241722014-05-07T09:31:00.002-07:002014-05-07T09:33:20.387-07:00The *Best* Way to Hard Boil Fresh Eggs<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj_g4fsQuC6YJhi9gzpZwdkixpLu5zBH35-GRj2UjB3fEmcl7Qk6OZYW4_n3wDMPB_iguPoJ7NmG1ucWGGjaZcaK_BsJjSUkLfJun9HY2L7eNOYinunoDi9z4_AGnb1S4tUVaHBjNO05rs/s1600/IMG_8451.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj_g4fsQuC6YJhi9gzpZwdkixpLu5zBH35-GRj2UjB3fEmcl7Qk6OZYW4_n3wDMPB_iguPoJ7NmG1ucWGGjaZcaK_BsJjSUkLfJun9HY2L7eNOYinunoDi9z4_AGnb1S4tUVaHBjNO05rs/s1600/IMG_8451.JPG" height="480" width="640" /></a></div>
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<a href="http://countryblossom.blogspot.com/2014/05/outside-in-may.html">We have chickens</a> so we get fresh eggs daily! Fresh eggs are the <i>best</i> (and healthiest) for you! We enjoy eggs fried, scrambled, hard-boiled and more! Hard boiling fresh eggs is quite the chore though because it makes them terribly difficult to peel (and they don't end up very pretty if you want to make deviled eggs!). </div>
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I was so excited when I came across <a href="http://www.fresh-eggs-daily.com/2012/01/hard-steamed-eggs.html">THIS</a> link which said we should STEAM fresh eggs! I got out my steamer/double boiler and brought water to a boil...then I put a dozen eggs in the steamer basket and placed it in the pot and covered it. I let it boil at least 20 minutes and then immediately put the eggs into a bowl of freezing ice-water (pictured above). This shocks them and helps with the peeling process as well. </div>
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I was over-joyed to find my eggs peeled with incredible ease! These are fresh (only a day or two old) eggs that normally would be terrible to peel! Steaming and blanching works wonderfully!</div>
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If your family is a fan of deviled eggs, <a href="http://www.deviledeggs.com/classic_deviled_eggs.html">HERE</a> is a link to the *best* tasting deviled eggs ever! I think the vinegar gives it the perfect little zip!<br />
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Have you ever hard-steamed your eggs?<br />
What are some of your favorite ways to eat your eggs?Katyhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/03118653637763160580noreply@blogger.com3tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6356199168210230365.post-20767469114448624022014-04-28T12:29:00.000-07:002014-04-28T12:29:17.072-07:00Updated Purse Organization ~ Spring 2014<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjyp1yMJY6nbRN4JDYJ7aAneRqpUpxmjoCGHf0MgXrFodgP56Sf5yJF-oE1nM6LwPqEIto84T6S8rmYaLCRlFClTe1R4gumu8Q0QiEvi34uWuZCUlA6_EkIzI0NbvEVReLbn_iLPa7T5Cw/s1600/IMG_8388.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjyp1yMJY6nbRN4JDYJ7aAneRqpUpxmjoCGHf0MgXrFodgP56Sf5yJF-oE1nM6LwPqEIto84T6S8rmYaLCRlFClTe1R4gumu8Q0QiEvi34uWuZCUlA6_EkIzI0NbvEVReLbn_iLPa7T5Cw/s1600/IMG_8388.JPG" height="480" width="640" /></a></div>
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I am quite particular about keeping my purse organized. I like to know where things are and have it neat. I don't like things just thrown in there...nor do I like things in there that don't belong (trash etc.).<br />
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I thought you may enjoy seeing how I am organizing my purse this spring. :) Above is the picture of my bag from the outside. I just love the huge flower!<br />
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And here is how you will see my bag on the inside (at any time...I always keep it this same way)...<br />
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEijvvDPjsypNdwjYUns26eRqbgF1KpKTkrFu9194jVmLBN6pBS42tL-TmOdgI_hUeVvljK5gMbF7xStE04-RGB_N7DlgLRPVKBEHftfGsyaYcw7-_pJVgJRb5BPqMiH9i9rhkPkZhMnRcA/s1600/IMG_8391.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEijvvDPjsypNdwjYUns26eRqbgF1KpKTkrFu9194jVmLBN6pBS42tL-TmOdgI_hUeVvljK5gMbF7xStE04-RGB_N7DlgLRPVKBEHftfGsyaYcw7-_pJVgJRb5BPqMiH9i9rhkPkZhMnRcA/s1600/IMG_8391.JPG" height="480" width="640" /></a></div>
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What's all inside, you may ask? Well, let me show you...<br />
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This is a small Vera Bradley wallet (which I found inexpensively on ebay) that keeps my iPod safe. I haven't had an iPod very long, but it was necessary to own since I began teaching <a href="http://bicycling.about.com/od/trainingandfitness/gr/spinning.htm">spinning classes</a> at our local Y...<br />
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My phone (a simple flip phone...I don't use it for much like most people do. I don't even text! It's mainly a "just in case" phone. I am not against phones...but just don't feel like people need to find me *all* the time, does that make sense?), a couple pens, Chapstick (cake batter ~ yum!), Lip Gloss from Avon, and my peppermint essential oil roll-on for headaches or whatever I may need it for while on the go...<br />
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhCxIVa7mlWdb9442Vjn9EVSqQpMhAtvgaIcJrMI5rQ9vnSZPyD_D5yl6n2ntTtyMalZPdjQCiZG0K_7m44xwuKQkC1-av5ZDFLMxU5A0oOtxwh4eOuSu8pusCRJniTnJgvvl1BqhCV_aM/s1600/IMG_8398.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhCxIVa7mlWdb9442Vjn9EVSqQpMhAtvgaIcJrMI5rQ9vnSZPyD_D5yl6n2ntTtyMalZPdjQCiZG0K_7m44xwuKQkC1-av5ZDFLMxU5A0oOtxwh4eOuSu8pusCRJniTnJgvvl1BqhCV_aM/s1600/IMG_8398.JPG" height="640" width="480" /></a></div>
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My kindle case and filofax (which serves as my bill-paying-register and checkbook which I may do an updated post on soon)...<br />
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Here is my kindle. It is nothing fancy...just a simple one that I bought on super-sale from Amazon. I have downloaded loads of books for free (mostly theology) and it is great to have to read while waiting at a dr's appointment or if stuck in traffic etc. The case was bought on <a href="https://www.etsy.com/">Etsy</a> (I love Etsy!) from <a href="https://www.etsy.com/shop/SolarThreads">THIS</a> store. My kindle tucks perfectly in there and then sits safely in my bag!</div>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiIHXDaZWPyi2O4tgbs2zQagABYnCCW4LxOHQDwT_OiV0a316EAIGbEIBUHpxiGeO-dxX9o_M7Ng7nGs7lggBvjB3H1IJoYVWxq-qfyE460bMDBniVuJtObKPiBwHAC_N4qNCvwOy209bA/s1600/IMG_8400.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiIHXDaZWPyi2O4tgbs2zQagABYnCCW4LxOHQDwT_OiV0a316EAIGbEIBUHpxiGeO-dxX9o_M7Ng7nGs7lggBvjB3H1IJoYVWxq-qfyE460bMDBniVuJtObKPiBwHAC_N4qNCvwOy209bA/s1600/IMG_8400.JPG" height="480" width="640" /></a></div>
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This little gem holds feminine products (not overly interesting, but I thought I would mention it!)...</div>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgXuIfC0I8sNUmen0qAht9-C7aF5wOTDR8AtSxO9NQJR4psK_ciF6gLtShFYcbcwoMD88VV_zHNAy_eZOf9vcdiRapmUj1O0iLXUUBEDqt9xbg8RNj8HpLIqDnjF1Wa7m0qdql_iX95B_M/s1600/IMG_8395.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgXuIfC0I8sNUmen0qAht9-C7aF5wOTDR8AtSxO9NQJR4psK_ciF6gLtShFYcbcwoMD88VV_zHNAy_eZOf9vcdiRapmUj1O0iLXUUBEDqt9xbg8RNj8HpLIqDnjF1Wa7m0qdql_iX95B_M/s1600/IMG_8395.JPG" height="476" width="640" /></a></div>
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This is my keep-all container. I keep extra Chapstick (of course) along with bandaids, tissues, ibuprofen, cough drops and extra hair things in there. I guess you could call it a "just in case" pouch...</div>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjOATS13UiIAH6q-mk9YS73Ee-itLD4loRMpAkiSYyfGB9AuWZNHc3B6eg9OgXyqI03TAcDPvw3YvRFFYzVhiIE69q10PuGzfL8-zuzlhs_rTsX8pvusfbVjXFndPM0bFQQZIL9tQaaALE/s1600/IMG_8394.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjOATS13UiIAH6q-mk9YS73Ee-itLD4loRMpAkiSYyfGB9AuWZNHc3B6eg9OgXyqI03TAcDPvw3YvRFFYzVhiIE69q10PuGzfL8-zuzlhs_rTsX8pvusfbVjXFndPM0bFQQZIL9tQaaALE/s1600/IMG_8394.JPG" height="480" width="640" /></a></div>
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And finally, in my bag I keep this little card-keeper. I have this one photo of my children in there along with some store cards, health insurance cards and the like...<br />
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgJAY8Cf0OhuSEqPCHTEJ-_c6ZV7ow9_ClR1WYDTj5CP7-bhfY_tNstWJ4nZsPwiS4xJwL-iLWEBtpjwkrxc-W0QyxHQZFsNypy7qjvpEmZPicMD9i9YXRfl9ynsGEmsfNEtJorvEk5cH4/s1600/IMG_8399.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgJAY8Cf0OhuSEqPCHTEJ-_c6ZV7ow9_ClR1WYDTj5CP7-bhfY_tNstWJ4nZsPwiS4xJwL-iLWEBtpjwkrxc-W0QyxHQZFsNypy7qjvpEmZPicMD9i9YXRfl9ynsGEmsfNEtJorvEk5cH4/s1600/IMG_8399.JPG" height="464" width="640" /></a></div>
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So there you have it! And now all my items are back in my bag, just the way I had them before. It's always so nice to know just where everything is and to have it neat and tidy.<br />
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I hope you have enjoyed seeing how I organize my bag.<br />
How do you organize yours? Feel free to share a link to your blog post about how you organize your purse! I'd love to see it!Katyhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/03118653637763160580noreply@blogger.com7tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6356199168210230365.post-43105138384993388172014-04-21T12:28:00.002-07:002014-04-21T12:28:58.235-07:00Clean Out Your Fridge!<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiYxu27Omh7CtP-wcRC3sJjOyzip8FJo9U5zQmEqMIx5tuhIbGcnmwehXOlctBxgi5KIqe1ActMPFwPTcio9R0tU54sdXvxrqMxXJpaZY1IVjDJI4GDtvLNaihjuuSiZId9NAugQo4fzqA/s1600/IMG_8324.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiYxu27Omh7CtP-wcRC3sJjOyzip8FJo9U5zQmEqMIx5tuhIbGcnmwehXOlctBxgi5KIqe1ActMPFwPTcio9R0tU54sdXvxrqMxXJpaZY1IVjDJI4GDtvLNaihjuuSiZId9NAugQo4fzqA/s1600/IMG_8324.JPG" height="640" width="480" /></a></div>
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Have you cleaned out your refrigerator lately? If not...go do it...right now! ;) Just kidding...of course you should wait until you have time (hopefully that will be soon!).<br />
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There are so many reasons why keeping your fridge clean is so important!<br />
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1. Proper cleaning keeps bacteria and germs away. **Keeping you and your family healthier!**<br />
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2. It saves you money! (Woohoo!) Think of how many things you waste because they have expired in the fridge. Had they been in proper view and<a href="http://simplyorganizedhomemaking.blogspot.com/2013/10/kitchen-organization-erasable-food.html"> labeled</a>, you would easily remember to use it and thus, save money! (Plus, it is such a blessing to have the amount of food we do...wouldn't you agree? We should try our best not to waste it when so many go without!)<br />
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3. It leaves you room to put things where they belong and still be able to *see* everything. Using bins or containers to hold things can be quite helpful. All you need to do, then, is slide the bin out to get what you need and not move a lot of things out of the way to get to the back.<br />
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4. It <i>looks</i> *fabulous*! Honestly, it is such a great feeling to open the refrigerator door and see everything in its place...isn't it?<br />
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Don't worry...we aren't egg hoarders. ;) We own chickens and get over a dozen eggs a day usually. We just took 6 dozen to use for our church's sunrise service for Resurrection Sunday...otherwise we would have more than this!<br />
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So, what are you waiting for? </div>
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Clean out, wipe down and restock that refrigerator! </div>
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You'll be glad you did! :)</div>
Katyhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/03118653637763160580noreply@blogger.com7tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6356199168210230365.post-22646065203234707502014-04-13T15:56:00.001-07:002014-04-13T15:56:36.054-07:00My Favorite Pens<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
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I have found the *best* pens to use with my planner! They are the FriXion erasable pens! They are absolutely fantastic...</div>
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They come in all these great colors...<br />
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi4e8jAkfpo79K8uZItb_00HRvqdq_C4-Q53xbJUTmH3FU7Xd48pqEj6smLFL4sZm-ttCzU1557pbnLdG403zogLXYh9GSZMQhhy_KNVpvraPPWo5_x_dQO3VVvEJYLC1-ggxiILaTjYCg/s1600/IMG_8238.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi4e8jAkfpo79K8uZItb_00HRvqdq_C4-Q53xbJUTmH3FU7Xd48pqEj6smLFL4sZm-ttCzU1557pbnLdG403zogLXYh9GSZMQhhy_KNVpvraPPWo5_x_dQO3VVvEJYLC1-ggxiILaTjYCg/s1600/IMG_8238.JPG" height="480" width="640" /></a></div>
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So I wrote this on a sticky note...<br />
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjEJt4rI9tNmD3K9jCPxFCIjN8Vqokj7uYrF7wheNkzNqOC2LfmGEQzivAoDyFbWvUJXGij9QPZDuEmzc6JQofVIDsmlcBF1OD_g3tThHCvfaENC-bUYs8a1gz5CTLuVtmwMdxJGogNJxk/s1600/IMG_8240.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjEJt4rI9tNmD3K9jCPxFCIjN8Vqokj7uYrF7wheNkzNqOC2LfmGEQzivAoDyFbWvUJXGij9QPZDuEmzc6JQofVIDsmlcBF1OD_g3tThHCvfaENC-bUYs8a1gz5CTLuVtmwMdxJGogNJxk/s1600/IMG_8240.JPG" height="480" width="640" /></a></div>
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And with the other side of the pen, I erased it!!! Isn't that fantastic? The awesome colors and flow of a pen...and the ability to erase like a pencil!<br />
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgXyFgadvmzxc7vaNvuq5jEDJEB9TwPn4HXzaWVj6ZnKx_hNxUp-c9_Vy3GHr1XCBdGERGgNZ8RAgq-IBjD8E9Mlk5F3w0B4sykquTNjD0DAXBGqbSutphR0MttfCsvQ_K3HVI7fn9pC6g/s1600/IMG_8241.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgXyFgadvmzxc7vaNvuq5jEDJEB9TwPn4HXzaWVj6ZnKx_hNxUp-c9_Vy3GHr1XCBdGERGgNZ8RAgq-IBjD8E9Mlk5F3w0B4sykquTNjD0DAXBGqbSutphR0MttfCsvQ_K3HVI7fn9pC6g/s1600/IMG_8241.JPG" height="480" width="640" /></a></div>
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These are definitely my favorite pens to use! I highly recommend them! You can find them <a href="http://www.amazon.com/gp/product/B0058NN4Y8/ref=as_li_tf_tl?ie=UTF8&camp=1789&creative=9325&creativeASIN=B0058NN4Y8&linkCode=as2&tag=thecoublo09-20">HERE</a><img alt="" border="0" src="http://ir-na.amazon-adsystem.com/e/ir?t=thecoublo09-20&l=as2&o=1&a=B0058NN4Y8" height="1" style="border: none !important; margin: 0px !important;" width="1" />! What are your favorite pens to use with your planners?Katyhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/03118653637763160580noreply@blogger.com7tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6356199168210230365.post-52199136221472365152014-04-06T13:34:00.000-07:002014-04-06T13:34:06.870-07:00My Favorite Books on Cleaning & Organizing<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhBuobbRu7nK2HryebpEih3Hwu-tSCOlutOOIRQcJswQkHszNQNOXUiGVZalziCxIFjGgY5jr3PoD2iU-QzfgxnU8JRmgfHDPju_4DABgPbXGR-WU1Ua8kdrWSm5bM-7QPuX-uG5x_7dUY/s1600/IMG_8129.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhBuobbRu7nK2HryebpEih3Hwu-tSCOlutOOIRQcJswQkHszNQNOXUiGVZalziCxIFjGgY5jr3PoD2iU-QzfgxnU8JRmgfHDPju_4DABgPbXGR-WU1Ua8kdrWSm5bM-7QPuX-uG5x_7dUY/s1600/IMG_8129.JPG" height="480" width="640" /></a></div>
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Having a good book to help you with your cleaning and organizing is of great value! A book can give you the right steps to take, all-natural recipes, cost-cutting ideas and more! I use a few books that I treasure!<br />
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The first one I highly recommend is <a href="http://www.amazon.com/gp/product/1580176070/ref=as_li_tf_tl?ie=UTF8&camp=1789&creative=9325&creativeASIN=1580176070&linkCode=as2&tag=thecoublo09-20">Cleaning Plain & Simple</a> by Donna Smallin. It is full of homemade recipes (with simple household ingredients), tips and tricks, and a simple plan to follow to get your whole home *clean*!<br />
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi0JpGTSE0DJpM-FdLfX88NPRPInVGfc3aYAASHdfz97ut99Q3dt545ZOj5e1qUeDICLEZA7pMFdSCVcoGCrmHIPK_7CbfwDXdemuSRuCWNk5bBrmN3vL-HsRavWrUm7CNkze38Uz5f7V4/s1600/IMG_8130.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi0JpGTSE0DJpM-FdLfX88NPRPInVGfc3aYAASHdfz97ut99Q3dt545ZOj5e1qUeDICLEZA7pMFdSCVcoGCrmHIPK_7CbfwDXdemuSRuCWNk5bBrmN3vL-HsRavWrUm7CNkze38Uz5f7V4/s1600/IMG_8130.JPG" height="480" width="640" /></a></div>
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Boy was I excited when I found out Donna Smallin makes a book on organizing as well! <a href="http://www.amazon.com/gp/product/1580174485/ref=as_li_tf_tl?ie=UTF8&camp=1789&creative=9325&creativeASIN=1580174485&linkCode=as2&tag=thecoublo09-20">Organizing Plain and Simple</a> helps you solve all of your clutter challenges! Like her other book, this one gives tons of tips, tricks and ideas. As well as helping you organize your home (room by room), it also has a section that helps you organize your finances! Again, I highly recommend this book!<br />
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiNLhRzq0WFZYlu1dHnymQfkjtP7Nyr43PKvt42oaa8aQBBxVdCj270RSudnyYVYX0PmJQ3ybSZ7XxP-CzJgVX_4tWycU0EOE7Lj2JYtWezcc57j5It1BaEOBfJH_ddcItG60dmj-CEabI/s1600/IMG_8132.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiNLhRzq0WFZYlu1dHnymQfkjtP7Nyr43PKvt42oaa8aQBBxVdCj270RSudnyYVYX0PmJQ3ybSZ7XxP-CzJgVX_4tWycU0EOE7Lj2JYtWezcc57j5It1BaEOBfJH_ddcItG60dmj-CEabI/s1600/IMG_8132.JPG" height="476" width="640" /></a></div>
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If you are interested in cleaning your home naturally (as I am) but don't always have the money for costly green cleaners, you can simply make your own! <a href="http://www.amazon.com/gp/product/1603420851/ref=as_li_tf_tl?ie=UTF8&camp=1789&creative=9325&creativeASIN=1603420851&linkCode=as2&tag=thecoublo09-20">The Naturally Clean Home</a> has 150 recipes for all-natural cleaning using things like <a href="http://www.amazon.com/gp/product/B000HK1ON0/ref=as_li_tf_tl?ie=UTF8&camp=1789&creative=9325&creativeASIN=B000HK1ON0&linkCode=as2&tag=thecoublo09-20">Dr. Bronner's Magic Soaps Pure-Castile Soap,</a> lemon juice, vinegar and essential oils!</div>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhqNHwibQc9G7pww7bUi5-5doSKbH6LFiHtDblBvvjUxWA5nAFycKm_4qZbxTsxXSm_BbFlH9-WRolqv2tnw3zjgbWhTcdUmVFKJGnDvmOGUyUInw5q-LPavLD0iD58SZXJxCw4p-zmvIc/s1600/IMG_8167.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhqNHwibQc9G7pww7bUi5-5doSKbH6LFiHtDblBvvjUxWA5nAFycKm_4qZbxTsxXSm_BbFlH9-WRolqv2tnw3zjgbWhTcdUmVFKJGnDvmOGUyUInw5q-LPavLD0iD58SZXJxCw4p-zmvIc/s1600/IMG_8167.JPG" height="480" width="640" /></a></div>
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<a href="http://www.amazon.com/gp/product/0446530131/ref=as_li_tf_tl?ie=UTF8&camp=1789&creative=9325&creativeASIN=0446530131&linkCode=as2&tag=thecoublo09-20">Mrs. Dunwoody's Excellent Instructions for Homekeeping</a> is an absolutely *wonderful* book. It is full of simple homemaking advice...written from a mother to her children. It is a little old fashioned which makes me love it even more! It has chapters highlighting the art of homekeeping, entertaining, the garden, health and beauty, laundry and more. It is a treasure of a book, really.<br />
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgtirh_uiQEGuSzZyos0E_Tcf_nd8X-RVciY8-ugyRkFeIYMnrmn2sNOywUU7sOjYmRimZ9pfnaBWpDfLY2kRwa0DYD_Ax75K6MNkW7dNLOzjGmZof-f1b52ZtOVlOKkd4qTixFN_dsv9o/s1600/IMG_8169.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgtirh_uiQEGuSzZyos0E_Tcf_nd8X-RVciY8-ugyRkFeIYMnrmn2sNOywUU7sOjYmRimZ9pfnaBWpDfLY2kRwa0DYD_Ax75K6MNkW7dNLOzjGmZof-f1b52ZtOVlOKkd4qTixFN_dsv9o/s1600/IMG_8169.JPG" height="640" width="480" /></a></div>
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What books do you find helpful in guiding you in your homemaking? I would love for you to share them! If you have any of these books, I would love to hear your thoughts on them too!Katyhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/03118653637763160580noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6356199168210230365.post-15490718593522453852014-04-03T08:40:00.001-07:002014-04-03T08:40:39.510-07:00Bible/Book Covers<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjuAqePsHwFxDXayIZHRj2yNWAWTXfUAbrIifS9yDXfWyZ1451fv272nlBW6fRXjrx8_0u7-V0nHKZo89Bdydqz8L_ayIENWoqa7ItGPUwnlaZJuJRatGfiJKpFtlg4ZkNXx4b14N5svys/s1600/IMG_8118.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjuAqePsHwFxDXayIZHRj2yNWAWTXfUAbrIifS9yDXfWyZ1451fv272nlBW6fRXjrx8_0u7-V0nHKZo89Bdydqz8L_ayIENWoqa7ItGPUwnlaZJuJRatGfiJKpFtlg4ZkNXx4b14N5svys/s1600/IMG_8118.JPG" height="640" width="480" /></a></div>
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My Bible is extremely well-used and well-loved. It's amount of use has led to it starting to fall apart...slowly but surely (even though I do have a hardback <a href="http://www.amazon.com/gp/product/1433502410/ref=as_li_tf_tl?ie=UTF8&camp=1789&creative=9325&creativeASIN=1433502410&linkCode=as2&tag=thecoublo09-20"> ESV Study Bible</a>.) I previously had my Bible in a large, pretty bible case. It *was* truly pretty and all...but what I <i>really</i> wanted was a simple cover. I didn't want a zipper or anything fancy...just something to protect the cover and keep it all *contained*.<br />
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I perused the shops on Etsy and found one that seemed to have just what I was looking for! <a href="https://www.etsy.com/shop/kivversbydaisyjane">KIVVERS</a> by Daisy Jane has a cute assortment of different covers custom fit for your book! I picked a faux leather cover and gave her the measurements of my Bible. Soon, in the mail, I received a cover that slid like a glove right onto my bible. It fit perfectly.<br />
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Now, if you can find something to protect the delicate pages of my Bible, I would be much obliged! Not sure that they make anything like that though! ;)<br />
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhlvy4YFHrE1mh8ZrXn0dLi_QZMOmL0FqcJv0C1emYtmkW3h3vAiOaW4GeSS893o9aUKkj1Aj-jR3AJTvUOJeloe_iu0456zhUcpVDLL2SLRaqX4L_AgUAJ76wJja7X9S1qKAirPWALy3M/s1600/IMG_8120.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhlvy4YFHrE1mh8ZrXn0dLi_QZMOmL0FqcJv0C1emYtmkW3h3vAiOaW4GeSS893o9aUKkj1Aj-jR3AJTvUOJeloe_iu0456zhUcpVDLL2SLRaqX4L_AgUAJ76wJja7X9S1qKAirPWALy3M/s1600/IMG_8120.JPG" height="480" width="640" /></a></div>
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<span style="text-align: start;">I have had to reinforce all the tabs with matte scotch tape because they were getting so damaged as well. If you don't have tabs in your Bible but *want* some...you can find them here: <a href="http://www.amazon.com/gp/product/1934770825/ref=as_li_tf_tl?ie=UTF8&camp=1789&creative=9325&creativeASIN=1934770825&linkCode=as2&tag=thecoublo09-20">Majestic Bible Tabs</a>. </span></div>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjyoBnr8rnCK5S9FoP931nYXFrX4fa1aNaRQKmu37p1VII6GAUhw4tW0Nf2ij3x1wuCVXK9XRqeP5ekwRVEJCNioy3_KtY4hwJ13dRxgNCWgrJC-042VTPk1bcxFVJ2MjOkPH0dViqfAnE/s1600/IMG_8119.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjyoBnr8rnCK5S9FoP931nYXFrX4fa1aNaRQKmu37p1VII6GAUhw4tW0Nf2ij3x1wuCVXK9XRqeP5ekwRVEJCNioy3_KtY4hwJ13dRxgNCWgrJC-042VTPk1bcxFVJ2MjOkPH0dViqfAnE/s1600/IMG_8119.JPG" height="466" width="640" /></a></div>
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If you are looking for a simple book cover, I recommend the shop I linked to above. But if that doesn't interest you, please go check out other shops on etsy. Shopping small/handmade is definitely the way to go! :)<br />
<br />Katyhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/03118653637763160580noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6356199168210230365.post-77347157804021814592014-03-12T07:55:00.000-07:002014-03-12T07:55:31.016-07:00Product Spotlight ~ Kiddy Qualia<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgqsfi8vG7P_eTgXT_A5lNtdU8raHM8m9f2fqOM1MQC__WyvdOViRiNEIHS36A-mj7FeCKFcnu-8kAoLtR-ejORjyiKqNUjvCcqLLKqm78acqQJqxhwdu1oZZ9YgduxLKBwVW3oIsKHUAY/s1600/IMG_7932.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgqsfi8vG7P_eTgXT_A5lNtdU8raHM8m9f2fqOM1MQC__WyvdOViRiNEIHS36A-mj7FeCKFcnu-8kAoLtR-ejORjyiKqNUjvCcqLLKqm78acqQJqxhwdu1oZZ9YgduxLKBwVW3oIsKHUAY/s1600/IMG_7932.JPG" height="480" width="640" /></a></div>
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If you love staying organized using planners, you will want to check out <a href="https://www.etsy.com/shop/KiddyQualia">Kiddy Qualia</a> on etsy! She has some super cute rainbow colored pages! I ordered some things from her for my <a href="http://www.filofaxusa.com/store/organiserdetails.asp?rangeId=54&sizeId=3&dsizeId=3&spId=355#355">Filofax Domino</a> (personal size) and just loved how she had it packaged up and sent to me. She even included some fun little stickers and things!<br />
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgtL2P3__GkPsWSr08Y64sfHhNyzf_k6Gy79s3WOLZC6_ebZz23uLsY5OV3Rf91idO0pB02lB2YqIEVt5FuK2zeh6pod0KzTbMhadtV9h0s2PWMvjNT5IYzR2X8uRBNjO1l6LYo9w548gg/s1600/IMG_7933.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgtL2P3__GkPsWSr08Y64sfHhNyzf_k6Gy79s3WOLZC6_ebZz23uLsY5OV3Rf91idO0pB02lB2YqIEVt5FuK2zeh6pod0KzTbMhadtV9h0s2PWMvjNT5IYzR2X8uRBNjO1l6LYo9w548gg/s1600/IMG_7933.JPG" height="640" width="480" /></a></div>
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I just love things in rainbow....aren't they so pretty? She has lined rainbow paper as well as graph, calendar and plain paper too!<br />
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh_qrFPbulFGhsIDeYZvP4X35pdOVYlq2yKmbYrRSDXF0KrxTvfE8nEJSOI5L8e8sng-bi3t41r4wYAtjUTUE0sBwuV49McWXzL1vnGrXPbo1BJrgE5Irs31QaeNcaqWwFvojz1aXmsbuU/s1600/IMG_7934.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh_qrFPbulFGhsIDeYZvP4X35pdOVYlq2yKmbYrRSDXF0KrxTvfE8nEJSOI5L8e8sng-bi3t41r4wYAtjUTUE0sBwuV49McWXzL1vnGrXPbo1BJrgE5Irs31QaeNcaqWwFvojz1aXmsbuU/s1600/IMG_7934.JPG" height="640" width="480" /></a></div>
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Etsy has a lot of *great* planner items. If you do a search on there, you will come up with a ton of great accessories and organizational tools for your planner! Another place I have ordered from is <a href="https://www.etsy.com/shop/KieleyCameronDesigns">KieleyCameron Designs</a>. She has dividers and really cute planner charms (I have the bubblegum machine charm...I don't think she has any of those left though). Do you have some favorite planner-oriented Etsy sites? Please do share them! I also love to support small businesses, don't you?<br />
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This is *not* a sponsored or affiliate post.</div>
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All opinions are my own.</div>
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I genuinely just wanted to share this great shop with you all!</div>
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Have a great rest of the week! </div>
Katyhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/03118653637763160580noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6356199168210230365.post-41005205066720729362014-03-03T16:11:00.002-08:002014-03-03T16:11:37.680-08:00Kitchen Tweaks<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEifutf8BmpuSD7mznyndupGpvl0f9dM736SXs1qJkAfj9IawdPj5dxRXkN-hgyBpME3ZrXRr9d5p8K2cuXidXmm-XUFNKoLFJi1AUT0BRhgwL0ktbGdKtrBVS9DSBrDh742SH42nGSBwH4/s1600/IMG_7879.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEifutf8BmpuSD7mznyndupGpvl0f9dM736SXs1qJkAfj9IawdPj5dxRXkN-hgyBpME3ZrXRr9d5p8K2cuXidXmm-XUFNKoLFJi1AUT0BRhgwL0ktbGdKtrBVS9DSBrDh742SH42nGSBwH4/s1600/IMG_7879.JPG" height="480" width="640" /></a></div>
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Sometimes, taking the time to do a few minor things can make a *big* difference in your kitchen. I had neglected my oven for a long time. I didn't do so intentionally...rather, I just didn't completely notice it as I was focused on getting foods in and out of the oven without really focusing on the oven itself. </div>
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Once I took a good look at it, I was disgusted with how bad it had gotten. </div>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgP4KpocO3QzSgj-zEJQb03WrL7lqfUebI0-Jw9AMdLOSzWJ2h8TUFCRhy6VUVDPF1cBtuD6lWXl390s4cfpNp8QGl5WxCup1Dl8BfC3DQzQRAxvNYVdEvJaVVaJBjEzcrlm7pv7Qv2gAs/s1600/IMG_7874.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgP4KpocO3QzSgj-zEJQb03WrL7lqfUebI0-Jw9AMdLOSzWJ2h8TUFCRhy6VUVDPF1cBtuD6lWXl390s4cfpNp8QGl5WxCup1Dl8BfC3DQzQRAxvNYVdEvJaVVaJBjEzcrlm7pv7Qv2gAs/s1600/IMG_7874.JPG" height="480" width="640" /></a></div>
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So, <span style="text-align: center;">I mixed up a little paste of hydrogen peroxide and baking soda (with a bit of elbow grease)....and this is how lovely it turned out...</span><br />
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiRF3VPF37nmGksz3uIxd69UkWaLckmIuNDDTr-d5CSx9EzWXNxNT5enTjUDm1HYIa408f-v2VywETUf1VY0wPPIhNog6DFJ5iRmqdMGh2Qu7Y1_Y6O1phPWQwixhpyxDJW8N9BQZVuX1U/s1600/IMG_7878.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiRF3VPF37nmGksz3uIxd69UkWaLckmIuNDDTr-d5CSx9EzWXNxNT5enTjUDm1HYIa408f-v2VywETUf1VY0wPPIhNog6DFJ5iRmqdMGh2Qu7Y1_Y6O1phPWQwixhpyxDJW8N9BQZVuX1U/s1600/IMG_7878.JPG" height="480" width="640" /></a></div>
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I also cleaned out our little tupperware/storage cupboard. It's not overly exciting...but it is so nice to have purged some unused containers and gotten things squared away in there...<br />
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEif5R44FrLiXWHr6pzcRT7y2cvN4fSKLxyFQlYrek1ohqOTyen5DCNc2PYgZNNJ9mtTf6dF79gs4BKzmGRLOeDL3ojvVVbK4yNloimlWObtEPRad8HZfspBwxezi0bVw5PEmK9hA1tzK50/s1600/IMG_7881.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEif5R44FrLiXWHr6pzcRT7y2cvN4fSKLxyFQlYrek1ohqOTyen5DCNc2PYgZNNJ9mtTf6dF79gs4BKzmGRLOeDL3ojvVVbK4yNloimlWObtEPRad8HZfspBwxezi0bVw5PEmK9hA1tzK50/s1600/IMG_7881.JPG" height="480" width="640" /></a></div>
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It's really amazing how good you can feel about your kitchen (or any area in your home) when you just make a few small changes for the better. Sometimes we can get it in our mind that we have to make huge changes to our home for us to "like it better". This is simply not true. All the little things start adding up and soon, you will find yourself enjoying your home more and more!Katyhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/03118653637763160580noreply@blogger.com9tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6356199168210230365.post-15539913609127758522014-02-25T16:48:00.000-08:002014-02-25T16:50:43.739-08:00Making a Simple (Effective) Chore Chart<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhQL5_EEsdmuMPMT7DUYFcTAofhjNg7Ryp1sIADeWdr_GXaPwXfEbFEvHKm4LjCpTo5PfK5aW7UYZtrKMQwHXQ9wywLXvB2rNRvMzteFGmFY9s1mUjXSSS8ievgJIwCO9FiVznrYL9pHhw/s1600/IMG_7904.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhQL5_EEsdmuMPMT7DUYFcTAofhjNg7Ryp1sIADeWdr_GXaPwXfEbFEvHKm4LjCpTo5PfK5aW7UYZtrKMQwHXQ9wywLXvB2rNRvMzteFGmFY9s1mUjXSSS8ievgJIwCO9FiVznrYL9pHhw/s1600/IMG_7904.JPG" height="640" width="480" /></a></div>
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I have tried many different chore chart systems. I have spent lots of time making chore charts and they worked...for a while. How I made them usually made it difficult to change chores (when changes were needed). So now, I have come up with a, I hope, full-proof chore chart system. It was super simple to make too!<br />
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I do not have a laminator (although it is on my wish list)...so I purchased <a href="http://www.amazon.com/gp/product/B000J09EDA?ie=UTF8&camp=1789&creativeASIN=B000J09EDA&linkCode=xm2&tag=thecoublo09-20">THESE</a> to put paper charts in. If you have a laminator, you could use that too!<br />
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiSn-5RMfzc8JW4AZOTDCbwHtXXAfRVIYFh_VUGup8NRkloS6hkN6UC-_IdR7McmPywypfD8qJlObHjIW_pBLW7KYn9IzunJzh5H0l2atxWdWo3K_N1I9pCMQZKyksMGCw4lX3kSIceofI/s1600/IMG_7905.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiSn-5RMfzc8JW4AZOTDCbwHtXXAfRVIYFh_VUGup8NRkloS6hkN6UC-_IdR7McmPywypfD8qJlObHjIW_pBLW7KYn9IzunJzh5H0l2atxWdWo3K_N1I9pCMQZKyksMGCw4lX3kSIceofI/s1600/IMG_7905.JPG" height="480" width="640" /></a></div>
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Then I wrote down chores with boxes (with some chores being on a rotation and some being daily). You could do this with your computer...but my printer is out of ink at the moment...so I whipped these up! I could have done them neater and much more carefully...but I wanted to get them done for now and can always whip another one up for each of them when I have more time!<br />
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh43ckdwZ5s1ftyI18XPfdGH66-XwSD4zATp4FNejL8q4bufKrtmV4FXEEkUvlqX46V_LpLNMVZNn-pPc1S7MfzUr2MriIwwsSmAmFoPDJAwP97m9GQWMobWcquVCXM3TpKOXI6g25zKX0/s1600/IMG_7906.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh43ckdwZ5s1ftyI18XPfdGH66-XwSD4zATp4FNejL8q4bufKrtmV4FXEEkUvlqX46V_LpLNMVZNn-pPc1S7MfzUr2MriIwwsSmAmFoPDJAwP97m9GQWMobWcquVCXM3TpKOXI6g25zKX0/s1600/IMG_7906.JPG" height="448" width="640" /></a></div>
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I *love* to make lists and to check things off as I accomplish them. It appears my children love it too because once their schoolwork was done for the day...they each (cheerfully) went about their chores. Jaxson even did some extras just so he could check off more boxes!<br />
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Xavier asked me: "Mom, since today is my day to vacuum anyway (downstairs), can I vacuum upstairs too?" After picking my jaw up off the ground, I told him that would be great and he *thanked* me! It was seriously a glorious day of chores. The house was tidied and the children helped right along side me (with not one complaint). Now, I do not expect to meet this level of cheerful choring every day...but it did give me a glimmer of hope!<br />
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiGCIRNRyVKfEAwCqCw_hRKI0_CCswK-07BCwn2QjgfAOjoyavAfrdm49IfeeUO6RznJT1AXMi-73kIDr8oir1cRxUB6ure1WrTIdmMHMOLWaLXZAOPEbxNrz2u-DlDl0hJXDKl-kwKEmc/s1600/IMG_7907.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiGCIRNRyVKfEAwCqCw_hRKI0_CCswK-07BCwn2QjgfAOjoyavAfrdm49IfeeUO6RznJT1AXMi-73kIDr8oir1cRxUB6ure1WrTIdmMHMOLWaLXZAOPEbxNrz2u-DlDl0hJXDKl-kwKEmc/s1600/IMG_7907.JPG" height="478" width="640" /></a></div>
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This is the order of the day in our household: First, all of our schooling gets done (we are a homeschooling family). Next, all daily chores must be finished. No television, computer, reading, or playing privileges will happen until all boxes for that day are checked off (with a dry erase marker). All chores must be done correctly because mama (that's me!) can check on any "finished" chore, to make sure it was done to my satisfaction, at any time. If I do check and something was not done how it was suppose to be (within reason...I don't expect perfection...but you can tell when something is done lazily) then that person will be grounded from all technology or other "fun" things for the rest of that day.<br />
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Another great thing about this system is that if I need to tweak anything, I can simply remove the sheet of paper and change/make a new one. :) I hang these charts on a nail directly under the family calendar in the kitchen. They are easily accessible and not in the way!<br />
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The children really seemed to feel accomplished as they checked things off their list. I hope they continue with this enthusiasm!<br />
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I hope you have found this post helpful!<br />
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<span style="font-size: xx-small;">The link to the plastic holders *is* an amazon affiliate link! If you make a purchase through my link, it helps me! Thanks so much!</span></div>
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<br />Katyhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/03118653637763160580noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6356199168210230365.post-82575196991594529842014-02-24T14:09:00.001-08:002014-02-24T14:09:34.573-08:00A Cheerful Little Bathroom I was so excited to find this little cupboard while out today (I got it for a GREAT price!). The colors are cute but don't exactly "go" with my bathroom (although my bathroom is quite colorful)...maybe I'll paint it one day...<br />
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgS66CQZ09PU4TYYUp0uC2Ul5cXfeDvmb9cfiJF-2JdwOJUQeeyKgW2FjPdM5JQODTj0jId9srJldab7d3bA1hqX_zLBjd8yMkUSBOMmBQDJFmsMc1pn2BEMjV9yLqpRcvk0XCeipBylgk/s1600/IMG_7896.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgS66CQZ09PU4TYYUp0uC2Ul5cXfeDvmb9cfiJF-2JdwOJUQeeyKgW2FjPdM5JQODTj0jId9srJldab7d3bA1hqX_zLBjd8yMkUSBOMmBQDJFmsMc1pn2BEMjV9yLqpRcvk0XCeipBylgk/s1600/IMG_7896.JPG" height="640" width="480" /></a></div>
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Here are a few other looks at my cheerful little bathroom (decorated in a <a href="http://www.maryengelbreit.com/">Mary Engelbreit</a> theme)...</div>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg8PMFOHTAbyHAzmRWwVH4UAjGy35wACdRnEpZnY9eKLaeU5Rsm93_YnR2N_8ZzgErEQij_UjIciD2nT6Gy0rwM6DO5eNfcLdogW5cKfpz2bG-rT-r_A03QFY0yFgzJKiPNN234j-kMpzc/s1600/IMG_7897.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg8PMFOHTAbyHAzmRWwVH4UAjGy35wACdRnEpZnY9eKLaeU5Rsm93_YnR2N_8ZzgErEQij_UjIciD2nT6Gy0rwM6DO5eNfcLdogW5cKfpz2bG-rT-r_A03QFY0yFgzJKiPNN234j-kMpzc/s1600/IMG_7897.JPG" height="640" width="480" /></a></div>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjS3I8YyZLUTudR7RvhUjczI-rlwjLtY41NSid5vjmsz_APill3TlSxoPWe-fu2coMt0X-_2I1Jj1S3f2-uiKt_uqI2eCXTvHo7waOqJhiRXV4-RpEGwNk9jIw09n-3shojLywwS0Kjnd4/s1600/IMG_7895.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjS3I8YyZLUTudR7RvhUjczI-rlwjLtY41NSid5vjmsz_APill3TlSxoPWe-fu2coMt0X-_2I1Jj1S3f2-uiKt_uqI2eCXTvHo7waOqJhiRXV4-RpEGwNk9jIw09n-3shojLywwS0Kjnd4/s1600/IMG_7895.JPG" height="640" width="480" /></a></div>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhjttfBbJlcfM1ueFQIs4P90b_pChvC_sXdgh_IxL3PLB6QK25vDfisR6bbUc-ctvuU0wHViwNLn2IRidNDlCSZGyyASgdYmytx4-qj804RIakWPspPI8EemLcxTtNmI1RdQrmpgGIOV40/s1600/IMG_7901.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhjttfBbJlcfM1ueFQIs4P90b_pChvC_sXdgh_IxL3PLB6QK25vDfisR6bbUc-ctvuU0wHViwNLn2IRidNDlCSZGyyASgdYmytx4-qj804RIakWPspPI8EemLcxTtNmI1RdQrmpgGIOV40/s1600/IMG_7901.JPG" height="480" width="640" /></a></div>
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I would love to redo my bathroom one day...as the theme of it really doesn't match the rest of my house...however, it is fine for now (and so much better than it was when we first moved in). When we redid it, I was going through a Mary Engelbreit "love" phase! I loved all her stuff! I still like it...the cheerfulness of her paintings and pictures is so alluring...however, I don't think I would choose to decorate with this pattern if I could do it over. :)<br />
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What does your bathroom look like? What are some changes you would like to make (if any)?Katyhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/03118653637763160580noreply@blogger.com3tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6356199168210230365.post-54158416877869685842014-02-21T15:11:00.000-08:002014-02-21T15:11:06.995-08:00Organizing Your Gym Bag<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
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I spin. Many look at me funny when I say that and wonder if I spin yarn. No...I don't spin yarn (although I would love to learn to do that too!). Spinning is speed cycling with tension. You can find out more about it <a href="http://bicycling.about.com/od/trainingandfitness/gr/spinning.htm">HERE</a>. I am currently in the midst of being certified as a spin instructor as well! That being said, I go to the gym a lot. I have taken a few different bags to the gym over time...simple totes, bookbags etc. But none of those bags could ever get my things organized and neat in a way I liked.<br />
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I am happy to say I found a bag that works perfectly for me now. It's a tad big...but that's okay. I like the extra room in case I need to bring something else along with me...plus it leaves plenty of room to keep all my gym necessities organized! You can find the same bag <a href="http://www.ebay.com/itm/Lucky-Brand-black-and-pink-Duffle-Bag-/291076471894?pt=LH_DefaultDomain_0&hash=item43c5827c56">HERE</a> and <a href="http://www.ebay.com/itm/1113-Lucky-Brand-Utility-Basics-Black-Suitcase-Travel-Bag-Gym-Exercise-Dance-/370689074142?pt=LH_DefaultDomain_0&hash=item564eca63de">HERE</a> if you are interested.<br />
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I love how the top zips open and flips over to reveal everything inside!<br />
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Here is a look...<br />
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Inside, you will find my spin shoes (which are in horrible shape after<i> so </i>much use but still work for now!), water bottles, a bag of necessities and extra towels. Under my spin shoes I have some extra clothes *just in case* I need them for any reason...</div>
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Inside the necessities bag I have two smaller bags, extra sweat bands (we sweat a lot in spin class) and some saline for my contacts...</div>
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In the leopard print bag I have some female necessities as well as a stick of deodorant. In the bee pouch (made by <a href="http://smalltowngal01.blogspot.com/">my sister</a>) I have some lip balm, a hair tie, hand sanitizer and my spin cards (yes, I save all of them...for no particular reason!)....</div>
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For Christmas, my parents and sister's family went together to buy me all new towels for my bathroom! These are our old hand towels that I take with me to the gym...</div>
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All zipped up and ready to go...<br />
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I like having my things all in place....even in my gym bag. To me, I dislike having everything jumbled in there and having to *dig* for things. :)<br />
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Do you organize your gym bag?Katyhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/03118653637763160580noreply@blogger.com4tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6356199168210230365.post-91673942548882060522014-02-17T14:05:00.000-08:002014-02-17T14:05:02.353-08:00The Joy of an Ugly Kitchen<br />
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Some of us have our dream kitchen...nice floors, beautiful cupboards, tons of storage and lots of counter space. Then there is <i>everyone else. </i>I am part of the "everyone else".<i> </i>When we moved in this house over a decade ago, it needed a lot of work. However, the price was right and we were thankful for a home of our own. I was pregnant with my daughter at the time and we were ready to settle in our home and grow our family. </div>
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In the middle of having and raising (and now homeschooling) three children and among our other responsibilities...we have worked at improving the house little by little (peeling wallpaper here, painting there...adding an addition etc.). We still have such a <i>long</i> way to go (and I admit, it can be quite overwhelming at times) but then I remember how thankful I should be and realize, despite all its imperfections...our house is *home*.<br />
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Our kitchen is one area we have *not* had the chance to improve. The floors need help and I truly want to gut the whole place and redo it....but it works for now. I'm not fond of the white and red laminate. Red and white *can* be cute...but I am not fond of how ours is set up. We did put this chicken wire on this cupboard in place of the glass that used to be there....<br />
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I also add decor that we *do* like to make it cozy and homey. I did a little wallpapering on the one wall...but that was all. The walls are old and are made of plaster. Getting the old wallpaper off was tedious (and not all of it is done in our laundry room). Where I have gotten the paper off, I want to paint but how do you find the right color when it has to match the red and white but I don't *want* to ultimately have the red and white in there....so instead of spending the money on paint that won't be what I *want*...I *try* to patiently wait till one day we can afford to redo the kitchen totally. </div>
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So...I said all of that to say this...even though our kitchens may not be exactly what we *want*...it can still be a place where you can find <i>joy</i> to cook and bake. I find keeping a tidy kitchen is the most important thing you can do to enjoy your time there! <i>This includes in cupboards and drawers as well</i>...</div>
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I keep my kitchen clean...but it isn't perfect. Our home is lived in and *used*. I hope if you have a kitchen (or even another room in your home) that you aren't particularly fond of, that you can find encouragement in this post. Even the most simple, unattractive kitchen can be a great place to be when it is kept neat and tidy...and when used as a beautiful hub for the family! Laughter, tears, questions, answers, teaching, learning....so much happens in a family kitchen. Let it be a place of warmth and love and maybe one day, we'll all get the kitchen we each dream of (and if not...isn't it great to know we made the most and best of what we had?!).<br />
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What do you love and dislike about *your* kitchen? How can you improve your area to make it a more enjoyable place to be?<br />
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<br />Katyhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/03118653637763160580noreply@blogger.com7