Friday, October 31, 2003
1. As the regulars know, I like to start of with an absolutely unbelievable deal, when I can find it. Since so many people went crazy over the juicer last week, I thought I'd bring you an even better deal this week. Today only, Amazon has an Amazing 20 piece knife set with the knife block for more than 90% off! This set started out at almost 300 bucks and is now under $22 (I think Jen and I spent more than that for our knife block alone!) Get 'em while they're hot!
http://www.amazon.com/exec/obidos/ASIN/B0000936KC/seattleot-20
I always recommend reading the reviews before you buy. A lot of people who wrote reviews thought that these knives looked and felt cheap, so think twice if you're expecting a $300 set of knives for $20. Sabatier likes to set their list prices really high so you feel like you're getting a good deal, but many of their knives are not super high quality. For our wedding we got some Global knives, which are fantastic and I can highly recommend--but they're not cheap.
2. Next on the list is another killer deal. A great small kitchen Cuisinart (perfect for chopping nuts and small stuff in the kitchen when you don't want to haul the big one out.) (Also a great gift if you are actually thinking about that sort of thing already) It started at 90 bucks and is actually going for under $20! Check it out:
http://www.amazon.com/exec/obidos/ASIN/B00009K3V3/seattleot-20
If you don't have a cuisinart and this will get you by, hey, great idea! Less counter space! But if you already have a cuisinart, don't even think about it. It's all about clutter management, and this is just one more thing to have to keep track of. And you know what? Just because it's smaller, doesn't mean it's easier to clean.
3. OK - This one I actually am not sure isn't even a price mistake. A 10-cup coffee maker for $2.99. I swear! At this price, I almost want to buy one for every room in my house! Shoot! Buy 5 , who cares! You know somethings probably wrong when you box of paper coffee filters costs more than your coffee machine. Anyway, it looks perfectly serviceable, is made by a known name brand, and would probably be fine for people who aren't completely obsessed about their coffee (or a college student, take your pick...)
http://www.amazon.com/exec/obidos/ASIN/B00006IV09/seattleot-20
Actually, why not splurge? For 11 bucks total, you cold get the coffee maker and the blender!
http://www.amazon.com/exec/obidos/ASIN/B00008QKM9/seattleot-20
4. Amazon has the Houdini corkscrew on sale this Friday only for 50% off. (This is a great corkscrew - ask all the folks that got them last year for everyone (and themselves) as gifts!) Here's the link:
http://www.amazon.com/exec/obidos/ASIN/B000068FNW/seattleot-20
This is very easy to use. But if you like to recork your wine, try a device called the "Butler's Friend". It removes the cork without poking a hole in it, so the wine keeps better. If you use it with one of those cans of spray-wine-saver, we've found that your opened wine can last for months!
5. All right, last kitchen item: Also as part of the one day sale this week, Amazon has the best salad spinner on the market on sale for almost half off! Check it out:
http://www.amazon.com/exec/obidos/ASIN/B00004OCKR/seattleot-20
Please note: not appripriate for spinning small children or disobedient dogs...) :-)
It looks like this went out of stock already!
Now for a few other quick things and then, I've gotta run you guys.. I've got a plane to catch! Since its winter, the rest of these are great gifts and deals on things to keep you nice and toasty in the coming months:
6. Vornado makes the best fans on the market and their heaters are no exception. One small unit can heat an entire room. Since its so rare to get any kind of deal on these, let along a deal at the beginning of the season, I thought I'd put it in (I know, it's only 40% off...quit complaining!) :-)
http://www.amazon.com/exec/obidos/ASIN/B000050B5R/seattleot-20
7. Now that your boy is warm, what about your feet? Seriously...Cold feet on a woman are the bane of the boyfriend and husband everywhere! (trust me, I know...) Check out this foot massager with infared heat. Men, youa re going to be the serious man of the year in your woman's life with this thing. (And she doesn't even have to know that you got it for 50% off and sneak your feet into it when she's not looking!) Here's the link:
http://www.amazon.com/exec/obidos/ASIN/B000063TL9/seattleot-20
I have a sneaking suspicion that this may earn a permanent position in the back of your closet. Try to avoid buying things that you'll only use a few times, then forget about.
8. Last item: Since its officially the beginning of dry hacking cough season...OK, it is in my house anyway...Thought people might be able to use a great, rare, early season deal on a humidifier. Here's a link to a nice warm mist humidifier that out to do just the trick:
http://www.amazon.com/exec/obidos/ASIN/B000050APZ/seattleot-20
Have a great weekend everyone! As always, please feel free to forward...
Eric
Thursday, October 30, 2003
Tip of the day
When choosing organizational tools, be sure to choose something you find attractive. For example, if you are a visual person, purchase colorful file folders, so that when you open your filing drawer you are energized.
The good:
The idea behind this is, if you like your newly organized and attractive space, you will have the tendency to keep it that way. A good comparison is if you have your house cleaned, your first response is to usually keep it that way, nice and neat.
The Bad:
Sometimes even if you have your space organized and beautified after a while it goes back to the way it was.
The bottom line:
Either keep it up by creating a routine where you set appointments with yourself to file, put your shoes away, etc…
OR
Have your PO do follow up appointments with you!
Wednesday, October 29, 2003
Tip of the day:
If you are the type who forgets everything and rushes around scrambling trying to remember the items you need for the day.
I have a great tip:
Pick a bag or box that you find attractive and really like, make sure it is a reasonable size. Take 15 minutes to get it together the night before instead of scrambling around searching for what you need the day of. This will also allow you extra time for yourself in the morning.
Tuesday, October 28, 2003
Clean Sweep
Have you seen the show on USA, or TLC channel called, Clean Sweep? Well regardless if you have or have not, I am going to discuss the good, the bad and the bottom line of the show.
Clean Sweep is a show on television that introduces a couple that has clutter and major disorganization troubles. It starts with a team of approximately ten people including a professional organizer, (PO) a designer, a garage sales expert, painters, and a carpenter, plus extras that are not mentioned, but you see working behind the main characters. The designer and PO work together to come up with an organized friendly design that helps the disorganized couple become organized. The couple and team from Clean Sweep have two days to sort, toss and sell their belongings, while the team of designers and painters, and carpenters recreate a beautiful space for them.
The good:
The organizer forces the couple to sort through their items into three piles, keep, toss, or sell. He or she places tarp on their yard in which the contents of two rooms are placed. The couple argues and blames and fights over what to keep versus what to sell or toss. The PO comes in and forces them to down size yet again their keep pile, so that the toss and sale pile actually has more than ten items in each. The designer is on a budget that forces him to re-use old items, and modify the item to suit their organizational needs. The garage sales specialist privately speaks to the husband and wife determining with each one item they would love to rid of. On the day of the sale, the couple competes to sell the most items at the yard sale. The person who sells the most gets to keep their treasured item. Making a game out of getting organized is a great solution to keep the disorganized couple motivated. I love the fact that the designer and PO work together to create an attractive, yet useful tool in their house. For example, the PO created books shelves that were measured to fit binders, and books, which were organized by type and size. The designer made it attractive, while the carpenter built it, a great solution instead of buying something that works for most of the items listed above, but some don’t fit. I cannot tell you how many times I have created a library system, where some the books don’t fit nicely onto the book shelf, so they end up:
a) Not looking as nice, because they have to lie down, instead of being put upright, and
b) Or the books don’t fit at all.
On final really good thing is that the PO gives homework.
The bad: the viewing audience only sees the PO forcing them to sort they give no sound examples of a good filing system or why he chose the organization tool that he chose. The focus is instead on the beauty of the design, rather than focusing on why they are disorganized, they solve it for them, instead of working with them. I would love to see the newly organized home a few months later and see what came of their beautified space. They make sorting look easy, by doing only two problem rooms, instead of the whole house. My fear is the disorganization will seep through into these new rooms after the crew and team leave. While you should only organize one room at a time, it is important to go through all of your belongings, or it will seep. For example the PO forces the husband to sell an item and the guy says, “Can’t I just put it in my garage?” The PO responds, “I have seen your garage”, implying that it is also disorganized. I know the point of the show is to organize two rooms, but these are key points to address when getting organized. When only doing two rooms, what happens is the disorganization seeps through to other places in the house, and when there is no room left, it goes to the beautiful rooms completely making the two rooms that were organized a pointless exercise.
The bottom line:
While it is impossible to organize so fast when you don’t have a team of ten helping you out, it illustrates an idea of PO do for the disorganized at large. Most PO’s don’t have assistants to do the extras like creating labels and putting belongings away. (if they do have assistants, it will probably cost you extra). Watch the show for minimal learning on how to get organized, and check out books from the library on how to organize your life, OR hire a PO yourself - at least you will know what you are getting yourself into.
Monday, October 27, 2003
Hi All,
We are back to absolutely gorgeous weath here after a week of rain and floods. Seriously, the rain was bad enough that I thought I saw a guy named Noah go buy in a dinghy!! Now that we are finally drying out again, its going to be a beautiful fall weekend with lots to do, including mowing the yard one last time and bringing all the patio stuff in. Since its the complete end of summer, there's tons of good outdoor stuff on sale, and I'm going to include a few in my email as well as some amazing kitchen deals - Hope you enjoy!
1. Following the policy of starting off with a bang, there is an absolutely amazing deal that I think is today only, on a high end Waring juicer in the Amazon kitchen store. This think started out at $150 and is 25 bucks today only!! (I swear!) Comes with the full 5 year warranty and is stainless steel to match all those appliances you know you want! I didn't even know I needed a juicer, but at 25 bucks, I think it will be cheaper to drink juice than water!! Here's the link:
http://www.amazon.com/exec/obidos/ASIN/B00009KO85/seattleot-20
This is now $5 more, which is too bad, but since it's over $25, you get shipping for free--so it's actually cheaper since you missed the sale. :) Be careful with kitchen purchases like this one! Nine times out of ten, they clutter up your counter, fill up your cabinets, and never get used. I wouldn't recommend this unless you often find yourselves with more fruit than you know what to do with. My husband and I get bi-weekly fruit and vegetable deliveries, so we got one of these for the extras. We barely use it enough to make up for the space it takes up. And remember, they use a lot of fruit to make just one drink--two or three apples for a glass of juice--so it gets expensive fast.
2. OK, so I know I've included this one before, but I thought I would toss it in one more time. Amazon has the top end Cuisinart Ice Cream maker for 72% off at under 25 bucks! My friend Tod ordered this a few weeks ago and I can personally vouch for the fantastic ice cream this thing makes. (He made chocolate raspberry merlot ice cream first time out and it was great! Check it out:
http://www.amazon.com/exec/obidos/ASIN/B0000544I6/seattleot-20
Careful about this one too, for the same reasons! It takes up lots of space, and you probably won't use it very often. Still, you can make healthy, low-fat low-sugar deserts for less money than you'd pay for at the store.
3. Here's a really nice anodized 7.5 quart cooking pot with a tempered glass lid that is almost 80% off! Jen and I don't have this exact one, but we have one alot like it and it is really versatile for lots of things like small soups and chili's. At 80% off, you can hardly go wrong... Check it out here:
http://www.amazon.com/exec/obidos/ASIN/B0000A0VG3/seattleot-20
4. And finally, for kitchen, a really nice Calphalon commercial nonstick saute pan/griddle. Perfect for pancakes on those upcoming cold mornings. Those plus the extra money in your pocket ought to keep you real warm at 76% off!
http://www.amazon.com/exec/obidos/ASIN/B00005AWCA/seattleot-20
Now, for some really big deals in non-kitchen stuff...
5. The first one is a complete steal. Its a portable DVD player for, I kid you not, 60 bucks! Not only is it amazingly cheap, but you can use it at home or in a car since its got power cords for both. (I can just hear the commercial now..."Bored on those long drives with no one else in the car? Why not watch a movie to pass the time?!") Anyway, this is an amazing deal at 62% off and its hardly bigger than the DVD itself! Check it out:
http://www.amazon.com/exec/obidos/ASIN/B00009XBL2/seattleot-20
just remember, you still need a TV to plug it in to!
6. There is a great deal that I saw earlier this week on a combo 900 Mhz cordless phone and digital answering machine. The reviews weren't great but, even if the phone were only marginal, its still a great price even for the digital answering machine! Its 70% off at $24.99:
http://www.amazon.com/exec/obidos/ASIN/B000059ODC/seattleot-20
7. One quick computer item I had to include. Amazon has, today only, a great deal Microsoft's cordless wheel mouse (a mouse with no "tail") that people are always raving about around here. You can put the base on your computer and then use the mouse anywhere nearby and it will pick up the signal. Really, really fantastic invention for running powerpoints or if you just don't want cords all over your desk. It's 70% off at under 15 bucks today only:
http://www.amazon.com/exec/obidos/ASIN/B00002MZ8E/seattleot-20
Finally, with winter just around the corner, here's some great deals on a humidifier I know you are all stocking up on...
8. There's a great deal (50% off!) on a honeywell humidifier with great reviews. Comes with a removeable water tank and 24 hour support (I have no idea why you would need this for a humidifier but, there you go...). Check it out:
http://www.amazon.com/exec/obidos/ASIN/B000050AQ0/seattleot-20
And now, the weekly, "I can't BELIEVE I needed this!" item:
This is easily the coolest looking drip coffee maker I have ever seen. It looks like a praying mantis mated with a Mr. Coffee and this was their evil offspring. It would however, look fantastic in my friend Adam and Amanda's kitchen (Isn't her birthday coming up Adam?):
http://www.amazon.com/exec/obidos/ASIN/B00008IHU7/seattleot-20
Have a great weekend everyone! As always, please feel free to forward...
Eric
Wednesday, October 22, 2003
Today I am going to review the book organizing from the Inside Out by Julie Morgenstern. If you are in the process of getting organized and have no idea where to start, this book can be really helpful. Julie uses several examples of cash studies examining different organizing problems. For example, she discusses prior clients and the trials and tribulations they went through getting organized.
Here is the basis of what the book covers:
• The three main processes of getting organized, “analyze, strategize, attack”
• Why you are disorganized
• Organizing your
o Home office
o Office
o Kitchen
o Bedroom
o Playroom
o Garage
o Mobile office, or car
• A brief overview of time management
Bottom Line: If you are interested in getting organized yourself, this book makes getting organized an easier process. She teaches you to organize your space like a kindergarten room – where ever section is defined by a subject. For example, one kitchen in the cupboard is only for canned goods, while another cupboard is for baking goods. Julie makes the process of getting organized a lot easier with her advice from start to finish. She also gives great examples of organizing tools.
However, some for some people getting organized is a daunting process. Organizational books tend to place the disorganized in a one size fits all box. There are many reasons why a person is disorganized and a book isn’t always going to cover that. It may eventually get them organized, but it usually won’t sustain them. I suggest looking up reviews of any organizational book before you invest your time and money into it.
Monday, October 20, 2003
Do you have a home that has a TON of wires? I do and so do many of my clients. Here is a website that I found through my NAPO, (national association of professional organizers) newsletter. Many of my clients are striving to have an organized and neat home. Cords can really create an ugly visual to your office, kitchen or bedroom with all of your cell phones, palm pilots, lamps, etc... This company offers a variety of solutions, and tools, but I am going to review three of their cord covers:
http://www.cableorganizer.com/cord-covers/
OK
Flexiduct Cord Protector from $15.99
The Flexiduct cover is good for cords that you don’t see, like behind a desk or behind an entertainment system, this product will help protect your cords from getting all tangled up. Because they are not very attractive, I would not put them where one can see them, I would go for the third model I mention in this blog.
Better
Cord Protectors by Wiremold from $12.99
The Wiremold is a great design because it holds all of your cords together in one tube. This one is perfect for a nook in the kitchen that has a ton of cords that are hanging all over the place. For example, your coffee station, you can place all of your cords together in on tube. It is especially perfect if these items are on a separate area of the kitchen, instead of the counter top, otherwise I would use the one below.
Best
Transparent Cord Protector from $19.99
The transparent cord protector is better for the price and design. They are see-through, not like the not as attractive covers listed above. This is also ideal for computer people, who want a more professional looking office. It especially looks nice when you are organized!
Friday, October 17, 2003
By the way, apologies for yesterday's formatting problems. It will take me a few days to work out the kinks of the new mailer system. Thanks for sticking with me while I get it worked out!
Hi All,
If ever I imagined that no one reads my Friday Deal mail, I was seriously proven wrong last week when I was inundated with "Where's the Deal Mail?!?!?!" messages. Sorry for not giving you all fair warning that I was going to be skipping a week while I was away in Atlanta... I really should remember my fan base and prioritize my vacation time... :-) Anyway, the monsoon system has hit us full force out here in Seattle. That means that we are officially into the season where we start thinking wistfully about all of our friends who live in California and start coming up with reasons why we absolutely have to visit them to "dry out..." Oh well, maybe I can find a deal on an umbrella for the mail today? :-)
This week's mail is loaded with great stuff - Hope you enjoy!
1. To start, I found a nice little toaster at 75% off that cooks enough toast so that everyone gets hot toast all at the same time. At 10 bucks, you can hardly beat the deal, too (This one does bagels, waffles, anything thin you wanna toast!):
http://www.amazon.com/exec/obidos/ASIN/B00008VELC/seattleot-20
2. OK, I'm sure that someone on this list must know someone that needs absolutely everything for their kitchen (just moved, just married, just crazy...) Anyway, check out this absolutely incredible set of everything from knives to measuring cups:
http://www.amazon.com/exec/obidos/ASIN/B00009XFSI/seattleot-20
3. Here's an absolutely fantastic price on one of those nice Cuisinart coffee makers with the thermal urn so that your coffee stays hot for hours after you make it (If you're not like me and don't drink the entire pot in the first hour...) Seriously, this thing started at $120 and is now $20!!! Check it out here:
http://www.amazon.com/exec/obidos/ASIN/B00009KF11/seattleot-20
4. Here's a really nice deal on a big, 8.5 qrt soup/sauce pan by Calphalon (Its the really nice, hard-anodized stuff.) Nice thing about this is that it is really deeply discounted, but still ships free. Check it out at almost 80% off!
http://www.amazon.com/exec/obidos/ASIN/B00005CET4/seattleot-20
5. Now, for the serious cooks (that missed this last time I was able to feature it) the microplane graters are back! (and I think they may even be cheaper this time!! Don't tell Simon who I think bought the shelves bare of these last time.) Great holiday gifts for any friend that likes to cook and they are an unbelievable $12.99 this time! Check them out!
http://www.amazon.com/exec/obidos/ASIN/B0000A5R5B/seattleot-20
6. Final Kitchen items: Two specialty items that are both beautiful:
a. OK, at first this one is going to seem really expensive but check it out anyway. This is a home ice cream maker/gelato maker with a compressor for under $170!! That means that this thing can make all the ice cream you want without having to plan ahead and put anything in the freezer. These things are beautiful and make fantastic ice cream (My favorite review for this thing: Gaining weight has never been easier!!) Check it out:
http://www.amazon.com/exec/obidos/ASIN/B00009365G/seattleot-20
b. With thanksgiving coming up, this is a really nice set of carving knives and steak knives that would meak a great gift. And, they're almost 80% off (who's gonna know?!?!) :-) Check them out:
http://www.amazon.com/exec/obidos/ASIN/B00006L9O5/seattleot-20
7. For a few other things, if you need a small item to get your order up to $25 for free shipping, try out the great deal on Family Lawyer Software by Broderbund. Contains all kinds of forms and templates that will save you the cost of consulting a lawyer on your own for some small things. Only 7 bucks!
http://www.amazon.com/exec/obidos/ASIN/B00007LV5H/seattleot-20
And now, the weekly, "I can't BELIEVE they make this!" item:
If you ever even set foot at summer camp, you'll probably think this thing is way cool (and probably a little unnecessary...) Wanna know what it is? You'll have to check it out:
http://www.amazon.com/exec/obidos/ASIN/B00009XFX4/seattleot-20
Have a great weekend everyone!
Eric
Thursday, October 16, 2003
Organize
Everything.com "Organize your kitchen, closet, bath, garage or home office!
1000's of Ideas"
Today I’m going to take a look at the products at
www.org-etc.com. I give every
product two ratings, from * to *****. The first rating is if you are an uptight
super-organized person (like me); the second is if you’re a disorganized person
(like most of my clients). Always remember most products to help you get
organized are designed by and for people who are already organized, bizarre, but
true.
http://store.yahoo.com/organizeeverything1/barabast.html
The battery rack – battery storage - $14.99
If you’re organized: ****
Since you’re disorganized: **
The good: it’ll always be easy for you to find the right size battery.
The bad: I can just picture it, you have your hands full of purchases from the
store, the phone is ringing, and there are a million and one things you need to
do that day, your one day to run errands. I’m sure you’ll carefully empty the
package of batteries and fill each section, one by one. You might organize it
once, but then the packages are going right from the grocery bag back into the
drawer. Of course, this is the kind of thing we organized and compulsive types
live for, putting things into categories. The worst problem with this isn’t
obvious: it’s big and ugly, so you’ll probably put it in the garage instead of
where you store them now. That means it’ll be less convenient, which in turn
means that you’re less likely to use it.
The bottom line: Put your batteries in two plastic boxes in the drawer: one box
for AAA, C, and 9-volt batteries, and one for AA and Ds. If you organize them
like this, you can tell them apart as a glance. Since the box is small, you can
keep it somewhere convenient. Total price: $3.59 for 4 Ziploc storage
containers, and you’ll have two left over.
http://store.yahoo.com/organizeeverything1/ovhator.html
Overdoor Hat Rack / Cap Rack Organizer - $11.99
If you’re organized: **
Since you’re disorganized: **
The good: The caps go somewhere handy and convenient
The bad: Your door frame will probably be ruined by the hook banging against it.
This happened to me, and it stinks. Also, your kids may not be able to reach all
the spaces.
The bottom line: Buy a rack with nubs that your kid can actually reach, or put
them in the coat closet in a clear box.
http://store.yahoo.com/organizeeverything1/tiebox.html
Tie Box Cedar - $18.99
If you’re organized: *****
Since you’re disorganized: *
The good: It’s pretty and smells nice.
The bad: In all of my years of organizing, I have met exactly two people who
take the time to roll their ties, (and you will need to fit 12) If you are one
of those people, then this is for you. If not, don’t bother.
The bottom line: Buy a tie rack that you can install in your closet. Then you
can just hang them, which is much faster.
http://store.yahoo.com/organizeeverything1/can10pocsho3.html
10 Pocket Shoe & 3 Shelf Sweater Organizer - $22.99
If you’re organized: **
Since you’re disorganized: **
The good: This sweater and shoe combo is actually a pretty great price for what
you get. This is ideal for someone who doesn’t have a lot of shoes or sweaters.
The bad: This can help keep shoes put away, if you are willing to put them back
after a long day at work. It is also nice for sweaters, because it can avoid the
moth bites, oh wait this one does not zip up, of course how many of you keep it
zipped?! The shoe part also has a tendency to collapse, since it is usually made
of plastic or in this case canvas. This combination also takes up quite a bit of
space in your closet.
The bottom line: A better idea either get a plastic hanging mechanism that zips
up, or put the sweaters onto shelves you can install yourself. Take all of the
measurements and either go on line to: http://www.millspride.com/mills/closetdesign/
Or, go to home depot. If you can afford California closets, they come highly
recommended and they do an amazing job. As for the shoes, I highly recommend the
following:
http://www.amazon.com/exec/obidos/tg/detail/-/B0000916NL/104-6827828-4147122
OR
http://www.amazon.com/exec/obidos/tg/detail/-/B0000916NN/104-6827828-4147122
this is a great price for what you get. For two it is still cheaper than more
organizational stores.
Another idea is to buy a Logga shoe rack for $16.00 at Ikea,
http://www.ikea.co.uk/webapp/wcs/stores/servlet/ProductDisplay?catalogId=10101&storeId=7&productId=11271&langId=-20&parentCats=10211*10458
OR a small shelving unit to fit in your front closet or hallway for shoes, you
could probably find a deal on Micro news or at a garage sale.
http://store.yahoo.com/organizeeverything1/noname1.html
Diamond drawer Organizer - $8.99
If you’re organized: *****
Since you’re disorganized: *
The good: it looks really nice and is very affordable.
The bad: Same as the tie rack. If you're not a sock-folder, this
won't turn you into one!
The bottom line: Take your pairs of socks and fold them over!
http://store.yahoo.com/organizeeverything1/exdrawjun.html
Junk Drawer Organizer expand a drawer $9.99 - $15.99, depending on size of
drawer
If you’re organized: *****
Since you’re disorganized: ****
The good: This is a fantastic idea!! The price is good, if you have larger
drawers that can fit the expanding model.
The bad: It doesn’t fit every drawer, and it can be tough to find one that fits
in an older home.
The bottom line:. You could also go to Target and pay a lot less, if you can
find the organizing unit to fit your drawer they cost around $1.00 – 5.00$ a
piece.
http://store.yahoo.com/organizeeverything1/10cabcar.html
10" Carousel Cabinet Organizer- $7.99
If you’re organized: *****
Since you’re disorganized: ****
The good: This is a great product to use for spices, canned goods, or anything
that goes into a cupboard or pantry. It not only provides easy access, but you
can organize things by category – like canned goods, spices, etc… This would be
an easy thing to upkeep, since we are all forever going grocery shopping and
putting groceries away.
The bad:. They do get dusty, so you will have to take them out and clean them
once in awhile, dot his when you are in dire need of groceries.
The bottom line: Once you develop a system for the pantry, it is easy to
upkeep, especially if you explain it to the others living in your household. Be
sure to measure your shelves in order to get the correct size lazy Susan.
http://store.yahoo.com/organizeeverything1/acmaghol.html
Acrylic magazine holder - $17.99, 2/$34.00, 4/$60.00
If you’re organized: *****
Since you’re disorganized: ***
The good: This is a great idea, when you save magazines it keeps them nice, and
provides a little more storage space, like when you are trying to squeeze more
books in and are having a hard time with those darn magazines falling over. .
The bad:. It encourages keeping too many magazines =’s clutter!
The bottom line: Although I discourage keeping things like magazines, some of
you need them for business purposes, which I support fully, otherwise get rid of
it, think about how many times do you really look through those magazines
anyway? If you don’t at all, toss it!!
http://store.yahoo.com/organizeeverything1/filboxwithan.html
Stackable File Box with Hang Rails - $29.99
If you’re organized: *****
Since you’re disorganized: *****
The good: This is a great product. It is retro looking for a modern office, it
can withstand a normal amount of legal files, and it really stacks nicely. The
price seems high, but it is a great price for three files and the wheels. I saw
it at another store for a lot more money.
The bad: It may be too modern for your taste.
The bottom line: If this isn’t your taste, there are many more file holders
where this came from.
http://store.yahoo.com/organizeeverything1/natcotchinke.html
China Storage set - servers set of 12 - $29.99
If you’re organized: *****
Since you’re disorganized: ****
The good: This is such a great product if you have extra dishes, for the high
holidays or just special occasions, these are fantastic. The price is hard to
beat, and is a lot better than packing your beloved china in cardboard boxes
that become week over time, or the label isn’t’ clear. This way, they are
protected by a cushion, easy to get and you know what is in them!
The bad:. They don’t protect dishes from breakage.
The bottom line: beware of purchasing too many dishes! If you can’t find room
for them, you need to sort and donate or sell.
http://store.yahoo.com/organizeeverything1/larremconhol.html
Remote control holder Slimline, wood - $18.99
If you’re organized: *****
Since you’re disorganized: ****
The good: This is a great idea, especially if you are one of those people, like
myself who has more remote controls that you know what to do with. Another idea
is to purchase a $69.00 remote that can store all of the remotes together on one
remote, yes this does exist: www.x10.com OR http://www.universal-remote.com/htm/about/index.html
This is good, if your husband, friend, or partner know a bit about technology,
and/or engineering.
You could also use a basket, or something else that fits your décor better,
since this looks a bit modern.
The bad: It also loves dust, which can be a pain to clean.
The bottom line: When you have so many remote controls, it is easy to lose one
of them. I suggest doing one of the following to save you from this annoyance.
http://store.yahoo.com/organizeeverything1/42pocwomor.html
42 Pocket Women’s Organizer - $32.99
If you’re organized: *****
Since you’re disorganized: **
The good: It wills organizer your shoes
The bad: For a plastic shoe organizer this one is not too cheep. It does hold
lots of shoes, but it also damages the door frame
The bottom line: If you are not concerned about your door frame, or you think it
will fit ok, shop around for a better deal, or go with Ikeas: http://www.ikea.co.uk/webapp/wcs/stores/servlet/ProductDisplay?catalogId=10101&storeId=7&productId=11710&langId=-20&parentCats=10211*10458
Trones shoes cabinet/storage - $20.00 – 3 pack
Or, at Target there is a 24 pocket shoe organizer for $8.99 buy two and you are
still saving money!
http://store.yahoo.com/organizeeverything1/autlittishol.html
Auto Litterbag & Tissue Holder - $14.99
If you’re organized: *****
Since you’re disorganized: ****
The good: This is a great product, if you are willing to empty your garbage.
This is a small feet, if you can remember to do so.
The bad: For the disorganized, tossing away the garbage rarely happens.
The bottom line: My suggestion is to empty it every time you fill your car with
gas. This product is particularly helpful for parents with children, being on
the go a lot it is nice to have a place to throw away wrappers. The price is
very reasonable too, of course you could always tie a grocery bag to your shift
to, which is free, but not as stylish. At Storables a similar product costs
$9.95
http://store.yahoo.com/organizeeverything1/acbas1.html
Accessory Basket, white - $ 12.00
If you’re organized: *****
Since you’re disorganized: *
The good: They do help you get more organized
The bad: I personally don’t care for these for a couple of reasons:
1. They don’t look that nice
2. items can fall through
And they are not that cheep. Wouldn’t you rather spend the money on something
more attractive? Like real drawers?
The bottom line: If you are on a budget and don’t care because they are hiding
it your closet, shop around for the best price.
http://store.yahoo.com/organizeeverything1/wraprac.html
Wrap/Storage Rack Door Mount - $5.99
If you’re organized: *****
Since you’re disorganized: ****
The good: This product is great idea and a great price.
The bad: Not very attractive
The bottom line: If you are like most people who don’t have adequate drawer
space, this is a great way to save the drawers for silverware and cooking
utensils, or pot holders and towels.
http://store.yahoo.com/organizeeverything1/gifwrapor1.html
Gift Wrap Organizer, Versatile - $19.99
If you’re organized: *****
Since you’re disorganized: ****
The good: I f you are lacking storage space and wrap a lot of presents this is
a great product.
The bad: People always have more wrapping paper and bows, than space.
The bottom line: Also check out Storables. www.storables.com Or use old panty
hose and clothes pins and stick them on a hanger, if you are short of cash.
Wednesday, October 15, 2003
Scanalog – a magazine cataloging system.
Scanalog is a perfect fit for computer lovers. This system enables you to organize your magazines via a computer, instead of trying to find space in your home and time to organize your magazines. Below is a list of what I have learned about Scanalog:
What I really like about the product:
• No more magazine clutter
• Allows you to never lose another magazine articles, recipes, or design ideas
• It costs only $59.95
• There is a support staff for any problems that may arise by phone AND email
Why the product might not be for you:
• Takes up A LOT of memory on your computer – 64 MB of memory
• You already have magazines with articles of interest that you keep and never look at will you look at them when it is scanned and on your computer?
• You need 40-200 MB of free hard drive space
• It seems time consuming, and to someone who is already disorganized, this may be daunting
• If you are not into technology, this organizational system might not work for you
Scanalog is perfect for designers and people who genuinely re-read and use recipes, design ideas, and stories, and don’t mind learning new technology for the computer.
Monday, October 13, 2003
Tool Shuttle
This product sold through Levenger, a great store, is a great product.
Here are a few reasons:
• Women – you can swap your purses daily with this, without the hassle of trying to remember to put everything you need into that new cute bag
• The leather is top quality and very classy
• Women – you will NOT have to dig through your bag to try to find something
• Men & Women – travel a lot for your job? This shuttle, carries all of your most important necessities
1. passport
2. cash
3. credit cards
4. cell phone
5. id cards
6. writing utensils
7. business cards
8. a small netted bag for meds, or first aid kit items
• the tool shuttle works great as a purse or small carrying case for men
• It looks professional
• You will look organized at business meetings!
Wednesday, October 08, 2003
This is an excellent web site full of vast resources, in fact so many, I am only going to mention one! This particular link goes over how to storing your photos in an archival fashion. They also discuss the basics of how to organize your photos, so that when you need a particular one, you have it. My kind of web sight! If you have a ton of negatives, they also give advice on how to store the negatives, giving them a save home for future generations.
http://www.kodak.com/eknec/PageQuerier.jhtml?pq-path=437/439&pq-locale=en_US
On this page, they go over storing digital images. They tell you how to print them, so that you don’t lose the image a month from now. That’s right, if you use the incorrect paper, your photos will fade. If you are into scrap booking, or having the actual paper copy in an album this is a good page for you to overview. I personally prefer to have my photos on the computer, and have a paper copy for my photo albums. If you don’t know anything about storing digital images on CD ROMs, they go over the pros and cons with you. I would also highly recommend going over this website with a fine tooth combed to pick their brains for all the avenues of photography, (they go over it all!)
Friday, October 03, 2003
Do you have a problem remembering to pay your bills, balancing your check book and keeping track of your finances? Well if you do, paytrust.com is a great resource. It is a web based program in which you can pay all of your bills online, without the hassle of writing checks and remembering to mail them off. They have two plans; plan 1 is $4.95 per month, plan 2 for $12.95. I think plan 2 is better. For only $12.95 per/month you can stop worrying about remembering to pay your bills. These are a few of the great services that come along with this service:
• They send you emails to remind you that a bill is due
• They send you an email if you are short funds
• They keep you informed of how much you owe, for example, what your balance on a credit card is
• You can balance your checkbook with a click!
• You can receive digital bills online for FREE
• You can organize your finances
Thursday, October 02, 2003
As I have been on my quest for organizing the better part of Washington state, I am becoming more into donating, rather than selling. When one begins to organize their home or office, there is a lot of sorting and tossing. What remains are either things one wants to keep or sell. As the weeks progress things that were supposed to be sold on eBay or at a garage sale tend to sit and collect dust. There are a lot of worthy donation stations out there that could use your unwanted items. My proposal is this, take that old key board, or computer monitor and donate it, you will feel an amazing weight off your shoulders, and will feel the weight of extra cash that you saved when it comes time to pay for your taxes. Check out this site and donate, instead of collecting clutter again.
