I can't tell you how many times I've walked into a clients house and heard them say "I don't know if I have enough organizing containers to hold all my stuff". After we get started we usually find out that they have more than enough. In fact most of the time we have left over containers, lots of them! Why? Because it's not about getting more containers it's about getting rid of "stuff".

It can be very hard to resist buying a new storage system. We are inundated with flyer's and TV ads that make it look so easy. Especially in January the month of new beginnings. "Just buy this matching organizing system and all of your clothes will magically fold and stack themselves in color coordinating order" Ha!

Often we let our stuff define who we are. Instead of owning our stuff our stuff owns us. Does what you own enhance your life or does it get in the way of the life you really want to live. If you are spending so much time caring for and organizing and cleaning the things you own that you aren't able to enjoy what you really want to in your life then it's time get rid of some things.

When letting go of things keep this in mind. Does this item enrich your life? If so, keep it if it doesn't or if your aren't sure then git rid of it. Having less to take care of can free your life and mind up to greater possibilities!

AAH, Snow Days! For the kids this is an amazing day somewhat like winning the lottery! For parents, well it can mean a lot of things but nothing like winning the lottery! If you have a job that takes you outside the home then finding daycare for children is first on your list. Planning ahead is the key here. Have at least two options for kids on snow days in case one doesn't pan out. If you are a stay at home parent or work from home then your day will go something like this. Put on snow gear, take off wet snow gear, repeat several times throughout the day. Mingled in there will be lunch, hot chocolate and wiping runny noses.

There are a few things you can do to be more prepared for snow days. You certainly don't want to be caught off guard without the proper snow gear. I recommend checking at the beginning of the season to be sure snow pants, boots and coats from last year still fit. Consignment shops are great places to pick up snow suits that are sometimes just like new as kids usually grow out of them before they wear them out. Hanging bulking snow pants can take up prime real estate in closets. I have a large tub in the floor of the coat closet for snow pants boots and coats. Hang a shoe organizer on the inside of the closet door to hold gloves, hats and scarves.

If you don't have a mud room create some space next to the door where you can hang wet coats and pants to dry. A Boot tray keeps the mess contained and a mitten tree is great for drying wet hand wear.

Another great idea is have a "snow day" box of things to do to keep boredom at bay. Fill it with coloring books, puzzles a new DVD or anything else that your kids are into at the time. Bring out the box when cabin fever hits and then put it all away again so it will be like new on the next snow day.

Most of all try to enjoy the day! Sled riding can be great exercise and good stress relief. Got to go... kettle is whistling ready for the first round of hot chocolate!

Hi Everyone!

Well this is my first attempt at blogging and I am very excited about sharing my organizing ideas with you! This month has been a busy one getting into gear for the new year. Seems everyone wants to start the year off right by getting organized. Visit my website at http://www.simplyorganizedval.com/ to see how I can help you make 2009 your most organized year yet! I've posted some before and after shots and a schedule of my upcoming workshops. Please be sure to share your organizing ideas with me and I will post my favorites right here at my blog.

Happy Organizing!
Valerie