What Brings You Joy?

Get Started on Your Home Filing system

2012-01-15T20:00:00.001-05:00

How many times have you had tried to get your papers filed? Decide on minimum daily steps to get you started. Here's a list to get you started:A Simple List of Daily Actions to Control Paper Clutter.

2011-04-04T09:55:00.001-04:00

The Stuff of a Good LIfe in No Particular Order http://ping.fm/gqGkh

2011-03-23T13:18:00.001-04:00

I'd love to hear how you have taken back-up action. What products or services do you use and trust? On a Cloud or In a Box?

2010-12-16T16:25:00.001-05:00

The Simple Secret to Living with Less Paper Clutter is Not What You Think
http://ping.fm/mWXLc

2010-10-15T12:51:00.001-04:00

Letting Go of Your Stuff - 3 More Questions to Ponder http://ping.fm/GxSu0

2010-10-06T15:45:00.001-04:00

What Do I Do? Good Question. http://ping.fm/3LO80

Somethings Just Need a Fresh Coat.

2010-05-13T18:07:00.005-04:00

I am always so inspired by all the wonderful creativity rampant on this online world. A recent post at the inspired room really got me motivated to do something with my grey blah shed.

So, I whipped out my paint brush, Martha's Talc paint and spent the day in the sunshine. It's not perfect and it certainly needs a new roof. (your creative suggestions are welcome!)

I would love to have a new shed that looks as perfect and lovely as my motivation. But for now, this will do just fine. Even on a grey day it doesn't look so dreary.

2010-05-10T12:04:00.001-04:00

How to Create Healthy Meal Plans - Start with Fresh Local Food http://ping.fm/xhC5n

2010-05-05T14:42:00.001-04:00

How to Set-up a Really Good Home Filing System to Get All Your Papers Organized http://ping.fm/QRWfP

Laying the Foundation to Get Ahead.

2010-02-28T18:20:00.004-05:00

My husband does a bang up job keeping the accounts balanced and paying all our bills on time. We are building up our retirement nest egg. I am extremely grateful for this, however it would be really nice to get ahead.

We control our credit card debt by only spending what we have. Lucky for us, I really don't like to shop. Our emergency fund bounces up and down all year long. We always seem to have just enough for what we need and a little extra for some fun stuff. Again, this makes me happy and I am grateful. But, I want to do a better job. I want to have plenty, for fun, for emergencies, for anything and everything.

For awhile now I have been wanting to implement the JARS systems for our finances. I first read about it at Freedom Education, Mind Power for you Personal Growth.

Well FINALLY. I put my foot down. We are using our tax refund to start this system. We have decided to hold off on a new car. Our second car died last week, we are back to one vehicle. It will be a bit of challenge, but we have done it before. Besides we have no idea what we want anyway.

Since our return is going to be a nice lump sum of money, we can easily lay the foundation for JARS success.

First I created a new budget. It was fairly easy to do because we have been keeping track of our finances in a money management program.

Then I created new ING accounts (or our jars).

Live - Mortgage, Insurance, Utilities, Home and Vehicle Maintenance, Loans

Give - Charity, Gifts and Entertaining

Save - Home Improvement, New Car, Emergency Savings, Investments, Health Care

Splurge - Self-Care, Trips and Travel, Clothes, Fun Stuff.

We will use our current checking account for everyday expenses, like groceries, date night, housekeeping... that kind of stuff. The majority of our income will be put into the the ING accounts, making it much more difficult to spend frivolously and much easier to save.

I spent the day reviewing our spending, categorizing it and deciding where it would be jarred. Needless to say I got a bit cranky. Money does that to me. I MUST work on changing that mindset, immediately.

Anyway, I am in a much better mood now. I have such high expectations for this year, getting ahead financially is only one of them. I know this is going to make a huge positive impact. Taking totally responsibility and getting this one little thing done, feels great!

So, what works for you? Anyone out their using the JARS system successfully? Got any hints?

Stepping Out. Being Vunerable. Letting Go.

2010-02-24T08:39:00.004-05:00

I just got back from an amazing experience. An experience I could have easily passed by because I was afraid to step out of my comfort zone.

Yes it was hard to spend lots of money on me. There are so many other things I could use the money for, say like, one of the many projects that needs completed around my house.

Yes it was really hard to put myself in a group of strangers without a friend nearby for support. Would people like me? Would people judge me?

Yes it was really really hard to know I was going to be doing things I have never done before. Would I look silly? Would I say something stupid?

Yes it was super duper really hard to get on a plane a fly across country to a place I had never been. My fear of flying has robbed me of wonderful experiences, more times than I can remember.

I did it anyway.

My life is on a totally new path. I am so grateful.

I spent the money because I needed to shift my reality. By making an investment in myself I knew I could change my perspective, in a very good way. I could learn things about myself. Or should I say, I could allow myself to accept me, the way I am. Not the way I think others want to see me.

I made so many new friends. Amazingly talented people. Willing to share their gifts, their insights and their time, with me. I cannot wait to see where they go on their personal journeys. I wish them all more success than they ever dreamed of.

I did countless things I have never done before. Those things gave me new insights and a new inner strength. I realized I have so much to work on. I realized that I really really need to work on my self confidence. Because we all have a gift to share and mine requires me to be in front of people. To teach. To be vulnerable. To be open.

I have tried to run my business behind this digital wall. Thinking I don't need to put myself out there. If I just create helpful well designed tools, people will come. They don't need me. They just need my stuff. After all, even though I may lack confidence in my personal presentation, I know without doubt that I am really really good at what I do. I know that JOYS is so uniquely different that it can organize your life, for your whole life. I know this because it wasn't that long ago that my life was in complete chaos and now it's not.

Now I know, I need to do more.

So, even though the thought of getting on an airplane makes me want to run and hide and puke. I will do it again. And even though I am still very uncomfortable putting my true self anywhere online, I am going to do it more. Starting today, with this post. See that's me up there. The me here has a knot in her stomach. But that ok, it will be gone soon.

So, share with me your thoughts. Have you done anything lately that was totally and utterly out of you comfort zone? When was the last time you invested in yourself? How did it change your life?

In case your wondering where I went for this amazing transformation, it was with Max Simon and unbelievable tribe of truly talented people. I highly, very highly recommend a Max Simon experience. Especially if you are afraid.

Hey, I Might be Wrong, but...

2010-02-10T08:15:00.007-05:00

"The IRS officially accepts all scanned copies of receipts and bank statements."

~a blog that deleted my concern.

I read this type of advice all the time. Especially around this time of year. And here's the thing... it makes me uncomfortable.

I asked, very nicely I might add, the above blogger for the source of this quote. Because, I would actually like to start recommending it myself. They did not reply. They deleted my comment. Here's the thing,

It is not because I designed a filing system for paper. Really.
I am all about making things easier, more efficient and less clutter. If scanning and storing is easier and more efficient for you, go for it. There's more than one right way to get anything done.

The reason it really bothers me is because, I am pretty sure it isn't true. The only reason you have to save any records is to prove yourself to the IRS or support insurance claims and ownership. Although I have not received a definitive yes or no from the IRS, I have done a bit of research on the matter.

Receipts you receive digitally, yes. Paper receipts. No. A scan can be easily modified. IRS Publication 552 states, "In addition to your computerized records, you must keep proof of payment, receipts, and other documents to prove the amounts shown on your tax return."

Open to interpretation, don't you think?

That statement concerned me so, I contacted all 50 state tax advocates offices a few years back, only a handful were comfortable saying scanned receipts were acceptable. By a handful I mean, around 3.

I also contacted the IRS directly. You don't get much directly from them, they refer you back to the publications, but most IRS folks I spoke with said scans were not acceptable.

Whatever.

Enough of that. I just had to voice my concern. I read this recommendation everywhere and IMHO it might not be the best practice. It would be really, really nice if the IRS would clarify this. I'm ok being wrong.

--------

UPDATE.

So I have done some more research on the matter. It seems the IRS updated Publication 552. The update is much more specific regarding digital records and it referenced, Rev. Proc. 97-22 where it states,

SECTION 4. ELECTRONIC STORAGE SYSTEM REQUIREMENTS
.01 General Requirements.

(1) An electronic storage system must ensure an accurate and complete transfer of the hardcopy or computerized books and records to an electronic storage media. The electronic storage system must also index, store, preserve, retrieve, and reproduce the electronically stored books and records.

(2) An electronic storage system must include:
(a) reasonable controls to ensure the integrity, accuracy, and reliability of the electronic storage system;
(b) reasonable controls to prevent and detect the unauthorized creation of, addition to, alteration of, deletion of, or deterioration of electronically stored books and records;
(c) an inspection and quality assurance program evidenced by regular evaluations of the electronic storage
system including periodic checks of electronically stored books and records;
(d) a retrieval system that includes an indexing system (within the meaning of section 4.02 of this revenue procedure); and
(e) the ability to reproduce legible and readable hardcopies (within the meaning of section 4.01(3) of this revenue procedure) of electronically stored books and records.

(3) All books and records reproduced by the electronic storage system must exhibit a high degree of legibility and readability when displayed on a video display terminal and when reproduced in hardcopy. The term “legibility” means the observer must be able to identify all letters and numerals positively and quickly to the exclusion of all other letters or numerals. The term “readability” means that the observer must be able to recognize a group of letters or numerals as words or complete numbers. The taxpayer must ensure that the reproduction process maintains the legibility and readability of the electronically stored document.

(4) The information maintained in an electronic storage system must provide support for the taxpayer’s books and records (including books and records in an automated data processing system). For example, the information maintained in an electronic storage system and the taxpayer’s books and records must be cross-referenced in a manner that provides an audit trail between the general ledger and the source document(s).

(5) For each electronic storage system used, the taxpayer must maintain, and make available to the Service upon request, complete descriptions of:
(a) the electronic storage system, including all procedures relating to its use; and
(b) the indexing system (see section 4.02 of this revenue procedure).

(6) At the time of an examination, or for the tests described in section 5 of this revenue procedure, the taxpayer must:
(a) retrieve and reproduce (including hardcopies if requested) electronically stored books and records; and
(b) provide the Service with the resources ( e.g., appropriate hardware and software, personnel, documentation,
etc.) necessary to locate, retrieve, read, and reproduce (including hardcopies) any electronically stored
books and records.

(7) An electronic storage system must not be subject, in whole or in part, to any agreement (such as a contract or license) that would limit or restrict the Service’s access to and use of the electronic storage system on the taxpayer’s premises (or any other place where the electronic storage system is maintained), including personnel,
hardware, software, files, indexes, and software documentation.

(8) The taxpayer must retain electronically stored books and records so long as their contents may become material in the administration of the Internal Revenue laws under §1.6001-1(e).

(9) The taxpayer may use more than one electronic storage system. In that event, each electronic storage system must meet the requirements of this revenue procedure. Electronically stored books and records that are contained in an electronic storage system with respect to which the taxpayer ceases to maintain the hardware
and the software necessary to satisfy the conditions of this revenue procedure will be deemed destroyed by the taxpayer, unless the electronically stored books and records remain available to the Service in conformity with this revenue procedure.

(10) Taxpayers may use reasonable data compression or formatting technologies as part of their electronic storage system so long as the requirements of this revenue procedure are satisfied.

.02 Requirements of an Indexing System.
(1) For purposes of this revenue procedure, an “indexing system” is a system that permits the identification and retrieval for viewing or reproducing of relevant books and records maintained in an electronic storage system. For example, an indexing system might consist of assigning each electronically stored document a unique identification number and maintaining a separate database that contains descriptions of all electronically stored books and records along with their identification numbers. In addition, any system used to maintain, organize,or coordinate multiple electronic storage systems is treated as an indexing system under this revenue procedure.
The requirement to maintain an indexing system will be satisfied if the indexing system is functionally comparable to a reasonable hardcopy filing system. The requirement to maintain an indexing system does not require that a separate electronically stored books and records description database be maintained if comparable
results can be achieved without a separate description database.

(2) Reasonable controls must be undertaken to protect the indexing system against the unauthorized creation of, addition to, alteration of, deletion of, or deterioration of any entries.

So, scan away... if you have the right scanner with integrated software with reasonable controls to prevent and detect the unauthorized creation of, addition to, alteration of, deletion of, or deterioration of electronically stored books and records. But, I wouldn't be so quick to use any basic old scanner.

I Am the Watcher.

2010-01-23T16:27:00.007-05:00

"Of two sisters one is always the watcher, one the dancer."

—Louise Glück

I discovered this lovely quote at The Sister Project. It made me think. What am I? The dancer or the watcher. I do love to dance. I have my carefree moments of really sucking life in.

But, my sister is the dancer. She always has been. Right now more than ever. With four beautiful little girls... how can you not dance everyday?

A Make it Work - Modge-Podge Organized Home Office

2010-01-12T13:18:00.008-05:00

I have been very conscious of waste. I use what I have, when I can. Functionality in a home office is priority. If it functions and I can slap a coat of paint on it to make it pretty, I use it.

My home office is a modge-podge of old family stuff (the cabinet storage), dumpster dives (the wood filing cabinet), and renovation scraps (the built in shelves). Even my desk is a combination of an old kitchen table and more contemporary ikea piece that didn't work with my style.

I found, in all the chaos of home renovations, that I didn't need as much as I though I needed in my office space. Thank goodness, because I also didn't have a huge furniture budget. You can read more about my home office here. One Essential Element of the Perfect Home Office

Get creative. Use what you have.

Still Inspired to Eat More Veggies.

2010-01-11T11:55:00.004-05:00

We enjoyed our vegetarian meals last week. For the most part the flavors were very good and the textures were not unpleasant.

A successful first for me last week, homemade pasta. It was surprisingly easy.

A new favorite, the Hearty Winter Veggie Burgers. I cannot wait to eat that burger again, the flavors were fabulous.

The fried wontons were just ok and it felt wasteful with all that oil going in the trash.

We had mushrooms I needed to use, so I never got around to the souffle. I made a mushroom pasta instead.

Not only am I still inspired for I am an Organizing Junkie - Menu Plan Monday, I am inspired to do a bit of kitchen re-organizing this week.

All of last weeks meals came from How to Cook Everything Vegetarian: Simple Meatless Recipes for Great Food by Mark Bittman.

Many of this weeks come from the same cookbook. Chicken is also the menu this week. I need to start getting my seafood back too.

Chicken Noodle Soup
Pan Fried Chicken and cauliflower Mash
Asian Style Dumplings
Butternut Risotto
Bear Glazed Black Bean Burritos.

My weekly menu planning form.
(You can plan your meals with this form too. It is an acrobat editable file.)

New Dad Toolkit - Perfect Baby Shower Gift for New Dad.

2010-01-06T12:15:00.004-05:00

It has been years since I put one of these new dad toolkits together. It is the perfect co-ed baby shower gift for the new dad with a sense of humor. Dad shouldn't be left out of all the fun.

Both my sis and I are planning co-ed baby showers for dear old friends, so I tracked down all my old graphic files to put a couple more of these together.

You can get most everything you need at Target. You could also try the dollar store. The biggest expense is the The Baby Owner's Manual: Operating Instructions, Trouble-Shooting Tips, and Advice on First-Year Maintenanceby Louis Borgenicht, md and Joe Borgenicht, dad. But IMHO, the book pulls the whole shower gift together. Not to mention, it's a great reference for new parents. Beautifully designed and written.

The shopping list.

15 oz bedtime bath - johnsons

soft cloth baby wipes - target

2oz hand sanitizer - target

baby owners manual
louis borgenicht, md
joe borgenicht, dad

safety goggles

masks - 3m

ear plugs

plastic tool box - stanely

optional - diapers, onesies, finger stuffed toys

The new dad toolkit labels are here.

Print the first page on a heavier stock, cut, hole punch and attach with a string.

Print the second page on an adhesive label sheet or regular paper and mount with super77 or preferred glue.

The labels are not fancy. Just simply designed to make dad laugh.

Time to Take it Down.

2010-01-05T13:52:00.004-05:00

We always have a bit of a disagreement in our house around December 30th. It starts with "honey, when are the decorations coming down?" It ends with "when the three kings come."

Well, Three Kings Day or the Epiphany, is celebrated on January 6th, twelve days after christmas. I can't really take the star off the top of the tree until then, right?

Besides, I have just begun to really enjoy them.

I plan on taking an inventory this year before I store the holiday decor away for the season. Along with the tips in my Declutter and Organize your Seasonal Décor article, you can download holiday storage labels and an inventory worksheet.

Inspired to Plan Healthy Delicious Meals

2010-01-04T18:05:00.005-05:00

Up until last week I wasn't really planning a weekly menu.
I have not been super inspired to cook in my kitchen, as my kitchen is less than inspiring. The blah of my kitchen totally reflected in my food. Boring. Dull. Same.

Everyone participating in I am an Organizing Junkie - Menu Plan Monday has inspired me. I know I need appreciate my current kitchen more—to eventually have the kitchen of my dreams. The only way to truly appreciate a kitchen is to keep it clean, uncluttered and put lots of love into healthy meals.

My focus will be 80% Vegetarian with local, seasonal ingredients as much a possible.
The majority of my recipes will come from How to Cook Everything Vegetarian: Simple Meatless Recipes for Great Food by Mark Bittman.

This week I will be making -

Cold Sesame Noodles
Hearty Winter Veggie Burgers
Tofu Stuffed Wonton
Cheese Souffle
Eggplant Parm

There was a time when I would look at vegetarian recipes and...yuck.
But if the few meals I have already prepared from this cookbook are any indication of what is to come... I can't wait. The flavors are delicious.

My weekly menu planning form.
(You can plan your meals with this form too. It is an acrobat editable file.)
My monthly menu planning calendar.
(Not sure if I am ever going to be this proactive, but some of you may find this handy.)

The Vegetarian Experiment

2009-12-30T17:56:00.004-05:00

I have wanted to cook more vegetarian meals for as long as I can remember. I have tried, unsuccessfully many times.

We have modified our diets throughout the years to be healthier but I was always relying on what I knew how to cook.

This time is going to be different. Instead of browsing the web to add interesting and tasty meals to my repertoire, I decided to do it by the book. I just purchased How to Cook Everything Vegetarian: Simple Meatless Recipes for Great Food by Mark Bittman.

I guess I was inspired by Julia & Julie. I found many things in common with both of them. I know what my challenges will be. Motivation to get to the grocery store more frequently. Acceptance that my kitchen is what it is. Small and dysfunctional. Finally, the biggest thing - learning to appreciated the aroma of vinegar. I really dislike vinegar. Vinegar of all kinds.

So far I really like Marks book. It is simple and basic. The ingredients are common to most grocery stores. Nothing (as of yet anyway) seems like a foreign language. There are lots of flavor variations for many of the recipes. The bonus is, he seems to like to substitute lemon and lime juice for the vinegars. So, maybe just maybe, this will work for me. Wish me luck and I will keep you updated. I plan on making vegetarian—with local, seasonal produce as much a possible—80% of our eats.

The first recipe is on the stove, a veggie stock. No vinegar.

Have You Ever Danced on A Bar?

2009-10-21T17:15:00.004-04:00

I have. Once. On my wedding day. It was a tradition in the small town I got married in.

Jump up on the bar and dance in your wedding dress.

I am not one to draw attention to myself. Frankly, that day was tough for me for that reason alone. But I loved, loved, loved to be surrounded by my family and friends and... I loved hopping up on that big old piece of oak and dancing my heart out!

There was something so wild and carefree about it. Especially for me. I never did stuff like that. Never, not even as a kid. So serious. So responsible.

So whenever I am feeling a bit lost or down, I put on a great song and dance like a total idiot in my living room. Damn, if it doesn't pick me up!

So go ahead. Dance!

----

Update. I am stepping out again. This time to make my company all it can be.
I haven't been spreading much JOY lately, so I found a new determination. You can read about at justorganizeyourstuff.org.

Master Bedroom Not Done. Yet. But Progress.

2009-10-20T17:01:00.016-04:00

It all started months ago. Heck probably a year ago. Ugly drop tile ceiling. Dirty dingy gray carpet. A closet not deep enough for hangers and lets not forget the peeling paint.

The procrastination party start about here. Room stripped and sanded. Radiator stripped. Ceiling holding out for wallpaper. Extra old doors crafted into new closet. The room was primed and ready for a least a month.

Let the party begin! Radiator painted. New shiny air vent. All hooked up a letting out heat.

All doors painted. A few hung with their beautiful crystal knobs. :)
My dear h and I are a bit DIY challenged. Couldn't get a few of the doors to hang straight so we put it off for another day. Better than a fight. :)

Closet done. Almost. Some of the hardware is installed. Still have a few organizing tricks up my sleeve. Have to maximize that space. But isn't it awesome?

The ceiling is wallpapered. Can't really see it. It's not the tin like stuff, just a random pattern. Love it.

The crown molding is primed and painted. Ready for install. Waiting on the pros. Even if I owned a compound miter saw, I am not willing to teach myself on $200+ worth of crown. One day I will accomplish that goal. Hey, TOH or Steve I'm a quick study!

The project will be finished when the floors no longer look like this.Thanks for the kick Melissa at the Inspired Room, I still have a lot to do. But I am happy to have made such progress.

Ok, Feeling a Bit Foggy Brained.

2009-10-18T19:47:00.006-04:00

It could be because it has been cold and rainy for the past week. So done with cold rain.

It could be because I haven't taken my niacin supplements in weeks. I ran out.

It could be because the video I am trying to finish for my moms surprise 70th is taking way too long. I know, it doesn't have to be perfect, but...

It could be because a website(s) I have been working on since, I don't know, January, is finally live. (I only organized and designed it. Did not program this huge site. Wouldn't even know where to start.) Now what?

It could be because my master bedroom is still not done. And Yes I am still putting other priorities first.

But I think its because one of my best friends just told me she was pregnant. 42 and not trying. Her first. :) Oh to be blessed.

And on the 655th Day, There Was Heat.

2009-10-17T18:10:00.004-04:00

I know you can't feel it. But I can.

After a day outside in the cold rain and our first year freezing our butts off, it's fantastic to feel the heat coming out of our old radiators. The new bling paid off. Thank-you!

Hi Melissa and everyone else at the Inspired Room, I am getting little things done!

BTW this was one thing on my get it done list. Our bedroom is not going to make the 2 week FINISHED deadline but there are a lot of little things getting done. That's what it takes. A lot of little things getting done.

Not Sure it Could Be Better Said.

2009-10-16T15:41:00.005-04:00

"Live life by appreciating every moment as a miracle, and you'll want for nothing. Appreciate the people around you, for the crazy complicated uniqueness they are, and you'll need no further entertainment."

~Leo Babauta of Zen Habits.

Papers Gone but I Still Have a Few Good Memories.

2009-10-11T12:44:00.008-04:00

We have had two big boxes of old papers sitting on our basement floor, forever.
I am certain it is safe to shred 20 year old bank statements from the years right out of college when I was making a whopping 14k a year. I was getting really close to a bonfire in the backyard. The community shred came just in the nick of time.

They're all gone now. But the memories of those really great simple fun times, living on nothing, make me smile every once in awhile.

Steam Radiators Get New Bling.

2009-10-10T20:28:00.002-04:00

Many of our radiators are still awaiting their makeovers. But yesterday they all got some new bling. Pretty silver air vents. I didn't know squat about steam radiators and after freezing our butts off last year I knew we needed to do something to avoid some really high gas bills this year.So here is what I know now,

Radiators don't need much looking after and they produce nice warm moist heat. When they work properly.

A clogged air vent will keep a steam radiator from heating up

A really old air vent will keep a steam radiator from heating up.

Air vents can sometimes be cleaned by boiling them in a water and vinegar solution.
Which I tried last year but they should have been replaced.

There are two types of air vents, adjustable and standard.(In the photo, the top one is adjustable)

Typically there will be two adjustables house wide, one on the radiator nearest the boiler and one on the radiator farthest from the boiler. This apparently helps balance the distribution of steam. We had adjustables on every radiator.

Here's hoping our investment will produce a bit more heat.

Finding the Sunny Side of Stuff

2009-10-09T11:14:00.002-04:00

We woke up today to "partial power" in our house. That meant, no computer. Couldn't work. The sunny side, I could get started on the veggie garden beds I have wanted to build in the back yard! It has been gorgeous for the past few weeks and I have wanted to get outside to the back yard. It's funny how things work out. I had just noted a few days ago on my "Done List" - Plan our Veggie Garden. Well I am taking the first step.
Even though our power is back. (Thank-you Alleghany Power!) I am still going to get dirty today! Fresh air and sunshine here I come.

My Dog : Makes Me Smile.

2009-10-08T20:48:00.003-04:00

Whatever it takes to Finish MY BEDROOM!

2009-10-06T21:02:00.009-04:00

I hate to admit it but I am a procrastinator. This project was supposed to be done by the end of July. It is now October and I still haven't moved into my new room. I could blame it on the wallpaper guy, but really it's just my priorities.

I am joining Melissa and everyone else at the Inspired Room and I am getting it done. Two weeks and counting!

8 Things I LOVE about my House.

2009-09-26T17:12:00.004-04:00

Mom and dad visited for the first time this weekend. I have been holding them off forever. We have been in our house for about a year and a half and have done a lot, but.. we still have a lot to do. Just taking a couple minutes to be grateful for all of it.

01. The Small Bathrooms. Although a bit bigger would be nicer, small is really easy to clean.

02. Big Windows in Every Room. Our last house was a townhouse with windows in the front and back only. Natural light rocks!

03. The Big Bedrooms. All the bedrooms are a really nice size. Big enough for double, if not queen size beds. Space is good.

04. The Sleeping Porch. A bright small space that feels like a tree house, perfect for book reading and coffee sipping.

05. The Backyard. Fenced in, sunny parts, shady parts and not so big that it requires a full day of lawn mowing.

06. Front Porch. I have always wanted a front porch and it is a perfect gathering place for friday evening cocktails.

07. The Finished Bedroom and Office. The guest room and office are done. The master bedroom, so close.

Finally and most importantly...

08. The Neighborhood. I love, love where we live. We are surrounded by authentic people, fabulous history and small town charm in a big city.

Bedroom is Stripped, Sanded, Patched, Primed...

2009-09-07T09:42:00.005-04:00

It is a great day! The Bedroom is ready to paint.

Everything has been stripped, sanded, patched, wiped down and primed.
The closet is built. The old doors we used for the closet walls give the room a touch of my quirky style.

I will be painting the walls with American Pride "Aged Paper". Same color I painted the home office. I adore this color. It is very comfortable.

I decided a while back that the majority of our rooms will be painted soft neutral shades. As much as I love color, a whole room of color can grow rather tiresome quickly. I will pop color with accents and fabrics.

This has been a VERY long project. Stripping paint is tedious. It is messy and dirty and goopy. But I can't wait to pick up that Corona Minipro Red today!

The renovation part of this project is almost finished. Finding the motivation to start the next one is going to be challenge. Thank goodness there are only two rooms upstairs left to strip and a super thank goodness for the Silent Paint Remover.

The Transformation of a Home Office.

2009-08-10T11:02:00.002-04:00

Here's a peak at the new home office space.

I was organizing my photos in the new iphoto and came across shots of my previous home offices. Ugh, I look at the first couple photos and think I can't believe I could work in such a dark and dreary space. (but I was feeling a bit dreary at that point in my life and it shows!) I set this up in our old basement with stuff I had around the house. This was my first official home office, dated 2002. I think. Notice the really old Mac. I really didn't need a home computer at that time because I was never home. I was always at work. Always.

These shelves were the first real DIY project my husband and I did together. They were ugly but functional.

The office moved up to the open airy empty loft when I started working from home full time. I created a simple and bright space using inexpensive storage options from ikea We wanted to move. It was just a matter of when. So, spending a lot of money for the space was silly.

Home Office. Almost Done.

2009-08-09T10:34:00.009-04:00

After stripping and sanding trim. After removing plaster from the old chimney. After prepping, priming and painting. After working on a old table in the dining room for almost a year, I moved into my home office a couple months ago. I am still working on the final decorating details, like the color of the cabinet, curtains and a few things for the wall. But the new light is hanging and I am loving my new creative space.

Love Them or Let Them Go. Creative Uses for Old China Tea Cups

2009-07-29T20:37:00.022-04:00

Isn't this just a wonderful use for that collection of heirloom tea cups? I am sure grandma would smile knowing that her cherished china is still lighting up your day!

This is a page from my HomeDone JOYS idea notebook. I pulled it from a magazine because I loved the whimsy of it. (Anyone know who I can give credit too for this one?)

I have a saying, Use it. Need it or Toss it. Unless it makes you smile.
My grandmas china makes me smile. It brings back lovely memories. But I am not using it. It just sits on a shelf collecting dust. I do keep things just because they make me smile. But if I can put them to good use, all the better.

Today I am just sharing some unique repurposing ideas. There are some wonderfully creative people out there! Thanks for the inspiration. Found these on Flickr.

A Little Action in My Kitchen.

2009-06-09T18:56:00.005-04:00

One of the first things I did when we moved into our new house was recreate our Action Center.

This was a simple and effective way to keep papers off the dining table and in a place. It had three containers. File. Use. Act. It worked great in our old house, but with all the responsibilities in the new house we needed something more.
So, I tried a full out tickler.

43 Folders + Actions Tickler File
31 Days, 12 Months and a few actions. Too much for us. The Basic Tickler worked so much better for our lifestyle.
So, I modified to a monthly tickler.

12 Folders + Actions
12 Months and about 6 Actions. I think this will be perfect. The only thing I might add would be a few years. Like Next Year, 2 Years...

The monthly with the actions is working like a charm. The best part is my husband is actually using it. After creating this for our space, I decided to write a little tickler file instructional booklet and create some pdf labels for JOYS.

Why Organizing Paper is so Challenging

2009-06-03T08:34:00.002-04:00

I posted a new slideshow on my website. Why Organizing Paper is so Challenging.

Discover the 3 reasons why you struggle to organize your papers, the 1 emotion they all have in common and 3 simple guidelines to help you keep your papers organized.

One Little Basement Organizing Project Complete.

2009-05-30T16:51:00.006-04:00

I have wanted to do this cool organizing idea since seeing it in a magazine a few years back.

I was actually inspired after another diy project flopped. I had made a large frame with leftover wood and an inexpensive piece of plywood to use as a magnet board in my office. But when the magnetic paint I purchased (twice) totally flopped, I was left with a big ugly black board.

So, since the gladware (inexpensive way to keep small stuff organized and contained btw) wasn't working as great in the new house as it did in the old, I decide to spend a little money. After all, there is nothing more frustrating than not being able to find what you need in the middle of a bigger project.

I ordered this 60mil magnetic adhesive and a whole bunch of different sized metal containers. Now all my nuts, bolts and screws are organized. It wasn't an inexpensive project (around $100), but it is definitely an effective organizing solution and this was not a make it work project. This is a permanent fixture in our basement. I have seen where people have used old glass jars by screwing their lids to the bottom of a shelf. I always liked that idea too. I just didn't like the glass part.

This Weekends Top Ten!

2009-05-25T17:54:00.011-04:00

10. Fabric store on Friday to find curtain fabric for guest room.

09. Door and shelves in guest rooms sanded, painted and back where they belong. Thanks honey!

08. Blueberry and raspberry bushes planted. Thanks honey!

07. New bud on our new rose bush, can't wait to see the full pink and orange bloom.

06. Dimmer installed and switch plates and outlet covers updated.
05. Radiator scraped, primed and painted.

04. Ceiling fan light kit updated.

03. Great dinner and conversation with new friends.
02. Great cookout and conversation with old friends.
01. Floor in guest room, cleaned and polished!

Even though the old light kit was hideous (and is now on freecycle) and changing the light went a lot smoother than I anticipated, past experiences with anything electrical have been a three day affair; the floor was my favorite week-end project. The floor is always my favorite. I love cleaning my floors, because it means a room is ready to move into. Finally and thank-you!

Much Joy all, especially to those who are serving, have loved ones serving or have served our great country. Thank-you!

Surprise! The Joys of Fixing Up an Old House.

2009-05-21T17:23:00.013-04:00

I like surprises, particularly when they are happy surprises.
This was not one of those.

Someone at some point did not do the proper prep. All the paint was peeling like a bad sun burn. Which meant ALL the trim in ALL the upstairs rooms needed to be stripped before it could be painted. Not in the PLAN and a major renovation set back.

I am not going to go into the sloppy details. I used Smartstrip and it worked. I guess. But chemical stripping, even the green options, really suck. It took me a few weeks to remove all the paint and clean up the wood work. Then the room became storage for our attic renovation. That took months.

Now, almost a year later, I finally have paint on the trim and walls and I am so looking forward to decorating. I can't wait to check room 2 off my list. At least 10 more to go if you count the bathrooms and the kitchen!

A year ago, an oh crap, now what!

Yesterday, a little joy and sense of accomplishment.

This was definitely a job I would have loved to hire someone else to do. The stripping part a least. Painting is not a just make it work project. Painting is a do it right or you'll be doing it over kind of thing. And if you do something silly like no primer and cheap paint, you'll be making A LOT more work for yourself (or someone else).

New Inspiration. New Direction.

2009-05-20T16:21:00.003-04:00

We moved over a year ago and since then I have been struggling to get myself re-organized. My business and our life. I had all my systems in place and everything in it's place on Amethyst Lane. It was simple to write about getting organized when I was organized. Now, not so simple. Now, I feel like a hypocrite as I am surrounded by renovation clutter and stuff that doesn't have a place.

Life was pretty easy before. I guess that is why we decided it was time for a change.
Change is a wonderful thing. It comes with lots of surprises. Stepping out of our comfort zone was necessary to have the life we dreamed of. Part of that dream included a beautiful old house in a wonderful neighborhood.

Needless to say I had grandiose plans. The renovations would go quick and I could go back to 150% focus on growing JOYS. Reality finally struck me this past week.

My idea of "perfection right now" is ridiculous.

We are making great progress but the house will be finished when the house is finished. It's time to just make it work. (thanks, tim gunn). Make my rooms all they can be right now with what I have. If I can finish a room, great! If it requires big project dollars. The money will come, I am sure of it. In the meantime, be creative and enjoy what we got ourselves into.

I think I am ok knowing, it's ok, to just do all I can each day. That a plan is great, but a plan can change and when it does the inspiration in the detour will make the outcome even better.

The JOYS of Managing Your Money

2009-03-24T17:25:00.004-04:00

Tax records pile up year-long. Establishing a system to collect and organize your tax-related receipts, papers and spending throughout the year will end tax-prep panic. A great paper filing system is a must, but a really good software is a must consider.

03 The JOYS of Managing Your Money

Do What You Need to Do to Protect Your Identity.

2006-05-23T17:49:00.000-04:00

On May 03 the names, social security numbers and birth dates of 26 MILLION LIVING VETERANS from 1975 through the present were stolen.

Sure the VA is hopeful that the person who stole the information doesn't know what they have. Even wishful that he/she will have a blast of morality and return the information. Personally, I wouldn't hold my breath.

Fast action is the key to limiting the financial and emotional damages of identity theft. Don't wait until you see suspicious activities on your credit report. It can take months before you realize you are a victim.

01 Step.
Place a fraud alert on your credit account.
Contact one of the Credit Reporting Agencies by phone. (and don't be frustrated when you never get a real human.) You will need personal information including your social security number.

Equifax: 800-525-6285
Hearing impaired: Call 1-800-255-0056

Experian: 888-397-3742
TDD- 800-972-0322

TransUnion: 800-680-7289
TDD- 877-553-7803

Because it can be a hassle if you need to apply for credit, not everyone would advise a fraud alert in this situation. When an alert is placed on your account, a business must verify identity before issuing credit. This may cause some delays. It's your call. But, I wouldn't be taking chances with my financial future if I thought someone could have my name and social security number. Find out more details about Fraud Alerts from the FTC.

02 Step
Call each of the Credit Reporting Companies and request a copy of your credit report.

Equifax: 800-685-1111

Experian: 888-EXPERIAN

TransUnion: 800-888-4213

03 Step
When your credit reports arrive, review your credit reports carefully.

1. Highlight unfamiliar inquiries or accounts.
2. Highlight unusual charges on existing accounts.
3. Highlight errors in personal information such as Social Security number, name, address and employers.

04 Step
If any errors are found in the report, contact the credit reporting companies to correct

05 Step
If fraudulent accounts have been opened in your name or there are unusual charges on existing accounts, contact the creditors of the fraudulent accounts explain the situation and then follow up in writing. The contact information should be provided on the credit report.

If you aren't keeping good records, start now; good records are vital to clearing you name and credit.

JOYS has a few tips but The Identity Theft Resource Center has fantastic resources. Use them.

1. Templates for Letters to Creditor and Others.
2. A Detail Course of Action if you are a Victim.
3. Tips to Help You Organize Your Case.

06 Step
If fraudulent accounts and activity appear in your credit report File a Police Report
This step may be the most frustrating step, because many departments don't understand the importance of a police report to identity theft victims. Insist on a Report. The FTC provides some straight forward insight if you are having difficulties.

07 Steps
If fraudulent accounts and activity appear in your credit report File a Complaint with the FTC. Information you provide may help law enforcement official across the country track down identity thieves.

Finally, please know that placing a fraud alert on you account will not guarantee protection against identity theft.

You may consider one more step.
Each of the Credit Reporting Companies provides services that will monitor your account for unusual activity. Although a bit pricey, these services would pay for themselves if fraud were caught early. Free Trials including a Free Credit Report may also be available. You may be interested in:

1. Equifax Credit Watch™ 3-in-1 Monitoring
2. Experian Credit Manager™
3. TrueCredit™ from TransUnion

By law you are entitled to one free report, at your request, once a year. Many different situations may dictate another free report, at your request. Check the FTC web site for more information.

03 Three Tips : Setting Up a Maintainable Home Filing System.

2006-04-08T11:50:00.000-04:00

Tax Day is fast approaching. Did you know the average taxpayer spends more than 24 hours preparing their 1040 “long” form? That is according to the U.S. Tax Payers Union. Establishing a functional home filing system is a key factor in reducing the stress of tax preparation. It may take some time to actually file your piles but you can set up a functional filing system in an afternoon. Here are three simple tips…

Containerize
Most papers are never referenced after taxes are filed. However, they must be kept for many years. Create a place for papers and information to be stored depending on when it will be needed.

An effective filing system will help you…
1. Keep current information easily accessible and maintainable.
2. Keep support records from being lost in piles of reference materials and everyday information.
3. Keep vital documents safe and secure.

Categorize
The whole family should be able to file and retrieve information from your household filing system. Filing your papers and personal information under consistent simple categories will help anyone quickly locate anything they need. Choose categories carefully by making sure they are broad enough to cover multiple subjects. Studies have shown that colors and graphics are recognized quicker than words, so consider using them in your system.

Keep your system simple by…

1. Limiting your main categories to five or six
2. Choosing a color or graphic to represent each category.
3. Keeping categories consistent in all containers.

Save time by using a pre-designed system like JOYS™ Brand Organizational Products.

Familiarize
If you can look at a piece of paper for what it is you can quickly make a decision to keep or toss it. Take the time to read the IRS publication on Record Retention (Publication 552) and know what personal documents are considered vital. This will help to eliminate some of the fear associated with tossing papers.

Any piece of paper can be classified as one of the following…

1.Documents provide proof of ownership, responsibility and identity and are considered most important or vital.
2.Records support past activity and information and are primarily needed for tax and insurance purposes.
3.References provide general or specific information and are considered the least important or clutter.

Remember, the rewards of a balanced life are worth the commitment it takes to get organized. This is especially true this time of year when locating support records for tax preparation can be time consuming.

How To : Keep a Contact Log

2006-01-16T08:34:00.000-05:00

If you are making a request, seeking information or attempting to correct a problem, you'll want a record of what has been advised, promised or denied from individuals or companies your are dealing with. A simple note in your household notebook will help jog your memory for basic maintenance and service. But if your situation requires ongoing contact, a dedicated contact log may be needed.

A detailed log includes:

01. Date
02. Contact Name
03. Company Name
04. Phone Number
05. Discussion Points
06. Action Required
07. Agreements Made
08. Confirmation Numbers

After contact, confirm in writing your discussion, include actions required, agreements made and timetable for completion. Make sure to send confirmations by return receipt requested mail. If you fax or email, request a written response for receipt of confirmation.

Download JOYS™ Contact Log if you want to add a log to any subject in your household notebook.

If you prefer to keep your log on you computer, check out My Little Note Saver shareware for your pc or Mac Journal for your mac. But remember, logging on the computer doesn't carry as much weight in court.

07 Seven Good Reasons : Why Keep a Contact Log?

2006-01-14T13:14:00.000-05:00

If you are the victim of identity theft or have a child or family member with an ongoing medical condition or you are collecting child support it is vital you keep a contact log. The truth is people make mistakes. And someone else's mistake can hurt you. You will be the best keeper of information that supports you.

Staying organized and keeping a contact log helps you:

01. Bring your situation to a quicker resolution.
02. Return your life back to a more normal state.
03. Discredit inaccuracies and exaggerations.
04. Appear and be more knowledgeable.
05. Prove possible violations of court orders, law or policy.
06. Clarify thoughts and memories of incidents.
07. Provide clues to locating helpful records.

What to Do : I Lost My Wallet.

2006-01-09T09:24:00.000-05:00

Take action quickly. For legal and tax purposes - keep a log of all conversations, including dates, names and phone numbers. Also note time spent and keeps receipts for any expenses incurred.

First : Place a Fraud Alert on Your Credit Account. Don’t be frustrated if you never speak to a live person.

Second : File a Police Report. Keep a copy in a safe location and make a note of the report number. You may need it in the future.

Third : If you know what’s in your wallet, start making phone calls. If you don’t know what’s in your wallet, take a breath, it's ok.

Read the straightforward information from the Identity Theft Information Center. It provides a checklist to help you remember what was in your wallet, actions to take and numbers to call.

Even if you know what’s in your wallet, I might make one more suggestion. Print the information from the Identity Theft Information Center today and put it in your household binder or with the copies you made. Don’t waste time searching for this valuable information when you really need.

Do You Know : What’s in your wallet?

2006-01-07T15:02:00.000-05:00

If your wallet was lost or stolen, how quickly could you notify all your financial institutions? What phone number would you call? What if you were on a trip and didn’t have quick access your files?

It could take forever to locate all the number on all your cards. Besides that, could you even remember everything you had in your wallet? Save yourself some time and reduce stress. Make a copy of all the important stuff in your wallet. Front and back. Then file it away in a very safe and secure place.

If you have a computer and scanner, it takes less than 15 minutes!

01 Step : Review. Take everything out of your wallet and check it out. Ask yourself…Do I need to be carrying this with me? Does it have my social security number on it? (If the answer is yes to this question, it should not be in your wallet.)

02 Step : Scan. Arrange as many cards as possible on your scanning bed and scan.

03 Step : Scan. Flip to scan the other side.

04 Step : Print. You may wish to print the document containing the front of your cards and then flip the paper to print on the back.

05 Step : Check. Review your printouts. Make sure you can read the contact phone numbers. It may help to write the phone number next to the card. (Those numbers are always printed so small!)

06 Step : Delete. Any scans you saved on your hard drive. You don’t need them. And make sure you shred any printed pages you are not going to file safely away.

07 Step : File. The pages you just created should be kept in a secure location. File in your Vital File.

Please Note : If your Drivers License, (or any card for that matter) is displaying your Social Security Number it is time to request a new one. It’s may even be law.

Second Thought : Don't Toss Your Manuals

2006-01-05T11:45:00.000-05:00

Some organizing experts suggest tossing your product manuals. Reason being, “You can just get online to find the information you need.”

It is a good chance you will have to refer to a manual during the life of any product, so I have to respectfully disagree. I like my paper references for so many reasons.

1. What if your computer is experiencing “technical difficulties”?
2. What if your internet "connection goes down"?
3. What if there is a "power outage"?
4. Even if you can get online, how long will you have to search for the information you “specifically need"?
5. After finally finding the information, you’re probably going to want to print it out, because your computer doesn't provide "viewing flexibility".
6. Now what if your printer is experiencing “technical difficulties”?

I could go on…but in my humble opinion : Save some time and fileyour manuals.

30 Days : To Less Clutter

2006-01-03T16:21:00.000-05:00

Let go of one thing. Go for it. Get rid of something. Just one thing. It can be anything.

The lonely sock waiting for his mate to return from the dryer.
The non-stick frying pan that has been scrubbed free of it’s non-stick powers.
Any catalog dated 2005. It’s 2006, the prices have probably changed anyway.

It’s less overwhelming when you let go of old stuff a little at a time. Once you start you may not be able to stop. So go ahead. Toss something. If you can’t bear to toss it give it away. But get rid of it.

Do this everyday for the next 30 days and you’ll have less clutter in no time.

01 One Simple Rule : Helping You Organize Life.

2006-01-02T14:30:00.000-05:00

Use it, need it or toss it, unless it makes you smile. This one simple rule can help you keep everything in your life organized.

The main focus of JOYS™ is to help you get your personal papers and information organized. But eliminating clutter in all areas of your home and life will certainly help you find balance.

Just start with a few small things. The feeling you get from letting something go will snowball. Take a few minutes each day to get rid of something you no longer need or use. If you haven’t used IT or needed IT in the past year, it is time to let go. If IT is still in good working condition you may want to Sell It, Donate It or Trade It.

Be honest with yourself. Selling and trading stuff take time and energy. What is your time worth to you? Someone may truly benefit from your generosity. Stop hanging onto things because you think you can make a few bucks. Having more space and less clutter is worth a lot more that a couple dollars.

More of Everything that is Good in Life.

2005-12-31T15:05:00.000-05:00

That is my New Year's Resolution.

I admit New Year’s has never been one of my favorite holidays. I used to think the coming year was going to be so much easier and so much better than previous year. Make a few resolutions and everything will change.

I have come to accept a lot about those expectations recently. I don’t make New Year’s resolutions anymore. Instead, one commitment I made a few years ago is helping me have more of everything.

I made a commitment to eliminate the chaos, clutter and crap in my life. That meant cleaning out my closets and quitting my job. It meant getting organized and staying organized.

It meant letting go of a lot of things.

Well here I am, three years later, and I have more of everything. I have more time for family and more energy to enjoy life. I am more creative, charitable and patience. I eat better, exercise more and have less stress.

I am still working on more money, but when you quit your job to follow a dream, you have to be willing to work a little bit harder for some things.

I love the New American Dream’s take on the Top Ten New Year’s Resolutions.

This blog is for all of you who want to make one commitment that could help you realize many or all of your New Year’s Resolutions.

Wishing you more of everything that is good in life and much joy!

Just Organize Your Stuff

2005-12-30T19:35:00.000-05:00

Why Get organized?

More Time.
Good records provide facts necessary to shorten the time it takes to do almost anything. Easily resolve an issue, file insurance claims, collect government benefits, prepare income tax returns,order a pizza or find something when you need it.

More Money.
Good records provide proof of agreements made and costs paid. Spend less replacing things you misplaced or repairing things you never had time to maintain.

Less Chaos.
If or when someone makes a mistake or official records are lost or destroyed, your records may be needed to support claims. Because nobody is perfect, keeping good records verifies agreements, transactions, ownership and personal wishes.

Emergency Preparation.
In the event of an accident or emergency, good records support personal information, financial and health history and ownership. Provide medical professionals information that may be critical to your care or the care of a loved one.

Income Tax Support.
Uncle Sam makes it your responsibility to supply proof to support tax returns. Keeping good records substantiate your tax deductions.

Identity and Financial Protection.
Banks and others make it your responsibility to clear up debt with all financial accounts in your name, whether you created the account or not. Keeping good records helps make this overwhelming task a bit more bearable.

Ownership Protection.
Keeping good records provides the support necessary to settle estates, file for insurance claims or express wishes regarding ownership transfer.

Goals and Personal Support.
Keeping good records provides all the details necessary to help you ponder and achieve life's dreams.

©justorganizeyourstuff.com