tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-83514936535637306742024-03-13T08:22:19.706-04:00Best Organizing TipsWhat more is there to say? Simply the best organizing tips taken from daily life, so you know they will work!Evelyn Cucchiarahttp://www.blogger.com/profile/13065402127158660602noreply@blogger.comBlogger121125tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8351493653563730674.post-22026229468904280722012-09-14T15:36:00.000-04:002012-09-14T15:36:22.166-04:00I've switched over to my new blog......just click here to see it. http://bit.ly/Pembwk<br />
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<img src="webkit-fake-url://2B88BA65-EC22-4B59-9CBF-1813ECA53E11/image.tiff" /><br />
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<br /><div class="blogger-post-footer"><a href="http://pinterest.com/EvelynCucchiara/"><img src="http://passets-cdn.pinterest.com/images/big-p-button.png" width="61" height="61" alt="Follow Me on Pinterest" /></a></div>Evelyn Cucchiarahttp://www.blogger.com/profile/13065402127158660602noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8351493653563730674.post-76398538642762039452012-07-06T22:59:00.000-04:002012-07-06T23:01:04.184-04:00I'm working on moving everything over to my new website. Check it out at <a href="http://www.allEvelyn.com/">http://www.allEvelyn.com</a><br />
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<a href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-5YAS7dPua4c/T_emZwr4zWI/AAAAAAAAAWE/i707UYHWCZI/s1600/clock.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="319" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-5YAS7dPua4c/T_emZwr4zWI/AAAAAAAAAWE/i707UYHWCZI/s320/clock.jpg" width="320" /></a></div>
<br /><div class="blogger-post-footer"><a href="http://pinterest.com/EvelynCucchiara/"><img src="http://passets-cdn.pinterest.com/images/big-p-button.png" width="61" height="61" alt="Follow Me on Pinterest" /></a></div>Evelyn Cucchiarahttp://www.blogger.com/profile/13065402127158660602noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8351493653563730674.post-64364840640219427272012-05-24T08:12:00.001-04:002012-05-24T08:12:18.373-04:00The Sand Pail List + an easy plan for the Best Memorial Day ever!Summer is quickly approaching here in the north east, and with that comes the annual question of "what are we going to do this summer?" I don't know how it works in your house, but around here we always start with big plans, lots of ideas, and by the time the beginning of July rolls around, no one can remember anything they had wanted to do!<br />
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I used to write ideas down on a piece of paper, but it never seemed to live up to the excitement that summer promises. Then I graduated to a book, but again it never seemed quite right. Recently I discovered something that seems j-u-s-t right! (thanks Better Homes & Gardens for the idea!)<br />
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Presenting ..........<br />
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The Sand Pail List!<br />
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<a href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-IzrnJcdQmNE/T74Zc563DJI/AAAAAAAAAVs/NDLF41vOPDE/s1600/CIMG2104.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="320" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-IzrnJcdQmNE/T74Zc563DJI/AAAAAAAAAVs/NDLF41vOPDE/s320/CIMG2104.JPG" width="240" /></a></div>
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Think Bucket List - but for the summer. Sand Bucket List would also work, but there's something a bit morbid about that.......<br />
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So, Sand Pail List it is! Summons up feelings of playfulness, childhood and endless fun - just what summer should always be.<br />
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Here's how it works -<br />
<ol>
<li>make yourself a colorful cover - draw, paint, download - whatever. I did this one on Printshop.</li>
<li>put a few blank pages inside - no more then 4 - you don't want to overwhelm yourself!</li>
<li>gather the family and ask them - "what types of things would you like to do this summer?"</li>
<li>write them down in the book - no particular order.</li>
<li>keep the book somewhere handy - I keep ours in our "treasure chest" for easy updates and check offs.</li>
<li>once a week, schedule some time to do something on The Sand Pail List! You can do more then one a week if you like - just make sure you get to some of them!</li>
<li>no pressure to do it all - as long as you do some, the summer will be a success!</li>
<li>next fall, look back and remember all you did this summer in the name of fun.</li>
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If you happen to be hosting a party this Memorial Day weekend, make a few extra blank copies for your guests. They'll love it - and summer needs to be spread around! Bring back the fun!<br />
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be organized.....evelyn<br />
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PS - If you have no plans for the long weekend - here's my plan for the BEST Memorial Day Ever! http://bit.ly/Kd4Umi<div class="blogger-post-footer"><a href="http://pinterest.com/EvelynCucchiara/"><img src="http://passets-cdn.pinterest.com/images/big-p-button.png" width="61" height="61" alt="Follow Me on Pinterest" /></a></div>Evelyn Cucchiarahttp://www.blogger.com/profile/13065402127158660602noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8351493653563730674.post-61996217004701518252012-05-10T07:19:00.002-04:002012-05-10T07:21:17.815-04:00How To Organize a Bedroom with Little FurnitureShort, sweet and to the point today - How To Organize a Bedroom with Little Furniture.<br />
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<a href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-nZvIBGrbs5g/T6ukITkkGPI/AAAAAAAAAVQ/wcyzf23RkUw/s1600/CIMG2092.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="240" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-nZvIBGrbs5g/T6ukITkkGPI/AAAAAAAAAVQ/wcyzf23RkUw/s320/CIMG2092.JPG" width="320" /></a></div>
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Okay, I look like I'm living in a cave in this video, but ignore the surroundings - the info is golden.<br />
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Even if you use just one of the ideas presented here, your morning routine will go better. I promise.<br />
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<iframe allowfullscreen='allowfullscreen' webkitallowfullscreen='webkitallowfullscreen' mozallowfullscreen='mozallowfullscreen' width='320' height='266' src='https://www.youtube.com/embed/Iy4Z92r6cgU?feature=player_embedded' frameborder='0'></iframe></div>
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Woo hoo ! After many, many days of rain - the sun is finally shining!!!!!!<br />
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be organized........evelyn<br />
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P.S. - new website coming soon! watch this space..................<div class="blogger-post-footer"><a href="http://pinterest.com/EvelynCucchiara/"><img src="http://passets-cdn.pinterest.com/images/big-p-button.png" width="61" height="61" alt="Follow Me on Pinterest" /></a></div>Evelyn Cucchiarahttp://www.blogger.com/profile/13065402127158660602noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8351493653563730674.post-6536861088281584532012-05-03T08:08:00.000-04:002012-05-03T08:08:49.450-04:00Think You Know How to Tie Your Shoes? Think Again! Shoe Tying 101<br />
It's the little things in life that drive you crazy. Like tying your shoelaces, only to have to tie them again a few hours later.<br />
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Always drove me crazy.....until I discovered how to "beat" the shoelaces once and for all.<br />
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Now, this isn't an earth shattering blog post, but it does make your life just a bit easier,,,,,and that's my goal.<br />
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<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-_fbtlfQhCIQ/T6JyFnetraI/AAAAAAAAAUs/bwcvSw-XHaA/s1600/CIMG2073.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="240" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-_fbtlfQhCIQ/T6JyFnetraI/AAAAAAAAAUs/bwcvSw-XHaA/s320/CIMG2073.JPG" width="320" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">shoe - regular laces</td></tr>
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Problem: shoelaces that always untie like magic - especially those round ones that are on all athletic shoes nowadays.<br />
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Solution:<br />
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1.tie an overhand knot at the end of each lace.<br />
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<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-u1VW-JFBzIE/T6JyHvqeeaI/AAAAAAAAAU0/Kpzau2QOlo8/s1600/CIMG2075.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="240" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-u1VW-JFBzIE/T6JyHvqeeaI/AAAAAAAAAU0/Kpzau2QOlo8/s320/CIMG2075.JPG" width="320" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">see the knots?</td></tr>
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2. tie the shoe like you normally would, but pull the laces all the way through until you reach the knots you just tied. Normally you would only pull about half way, but instead, just keep pulling. The knots will stop the laces from pulling all the way through and out. Hard to explain, easy to do.<br />
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<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-KkTwPT1KMp4/T6JyK_NKOiI/AAAAAAAAAU8/gYiyp51PBBI/s1600/CIMG2076.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="240" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-KkTwPT1KMp4/T6JyK_NKOiI/AAAAAAAAAU8/gYiyp51PBBI/s320/CIMG2076.JPG" width="320" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">pulled all the way to the ends</td></tr>
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3. tie another knot with the laces, i.e. a double knot.<br />
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-GgjrsIPN9F4/T6JyM4ngLKI/AAAAAAAAAVE/IfzYVXQXjM4/s1600/CIMG2077.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="240" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-GgjrsIPN9F4/T6JyM4ngLKI/AAAAAAAAAVE/IfzYVXQXjM4/s320/CIMG2077.JPG" width="320" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">tied once and for all!</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
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That's it - you're done!<br />
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The action of pulling the laces all the way through to the knots is what keeps the knot from untying.<br />
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Don't knock it until you've tried it. Won't save you a ton of time every day, but it will save you a ton of frustration.<br />
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And yes, that is a really large (men's size 12) blue sneaker with hippos on it. Anyone else have a teen boy who's really into pop culture? Anyone?<br />
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be organized......evelyn<br />
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P.S. - Hey - I'm starting something new! In addition to my once a week blog posts (leave your email in the box on the right next to the title if you want to get them automatically), I'm going to start sending out a quick happiness idea every Friday morning.
Want to be in the club that gets them? Shoot me an email at: evelyn@organizingwithevelyn.com or leave a comment below.<div class="blogger-post-footer"><a href="http://pinterest.com/EvelynCucchiara/"><img src="http://passets-cdn.pinterest.com/images/big-p-button.png" width="61" height="61" alt="Follow Me on Pinterest" /></a></div>Evelyn Cucchiarahttp://www.blogger.com/profile/13065402127158660602noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8351493653563730674.post-38389021124653191512012-04-26T07:20:00.000-04:002012-04-26T07:26:59.563-04:00My Biggest TimesaverFeeling overwhelmed by all the places you have to be and all the things you have to do? Take a look at my video "How To Organize a Timetable for your Household". Hope you get some great ideas - they work for us!<br />
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<a href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-l7n9TKA6MQg/T5kw8pGnW9I/AAAAAAAAAUg/m2fhyZQr76k/s1600/CIMG2047.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="240" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-l7n9TKA6MQg/T5kw8pGnW9I/AAAAAAAAAUg/m2fhyZQr76k/s320/CIMG2047.JPG" width="320" /></a></div>
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<iframe allowfullscreen='allowfullscreen' webkitallowfullscreen='webkitallowfullscreen' mozallowfullscreen='mozallowfullscreen' width='320' height='266' src='https://www.youtube.com/embed/iYItl69H83I?feature=player_embedded' frameborder='0'></iframe></div>
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be organized.....evelyn<div class="blogger-post-footer"><a href="http://pinterest.com/EvelynCucchiara/"><img src="http://passets-cdn.pinterest.com/images/big-p-button.png" width="61" height="61" alt="Follow Me on Pinterest" /></a></div>Evelyn Cucchiarahttp://www.blogger.com/profile/13065402127158660602noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8351493653563730674.post-64581215215472351412012-04-19T07:57:00.000-04:002012-04-19T14:49:53.497-04:00Creative Storage 101<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: Times, 'Times New Roman', serif;">Something different today!</span><br />
<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: Times, 'Times New Roman', serif;">Presenting a special guest blog by blogger Lisa Kane - all about finding new places to store things. Enjoy!</span><br />
<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: Times, 'Times New Roman', serif;">And let me know what you think!</span><br />
<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: Times, 'Times New Roman', serif;"><br /></span><br />
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<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: Times, 'Times New Roman', serif;">There comes a time in every organizer’s life when the space
simply runs out. It happens slowly, but eventually the space is going to run
out. If you’ve reached your organization threshold then consider these creative
tips for making the most out of every space. <o:p></o:p></span></div>
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<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: Times, 'Times New Roman', serif;">1. Deck the walls</span></div>
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<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: Times, 'Times New Roman', serif;">One of the areas with the most potential in your home is the
walls. Think about how much empty real estate you have, just ready for shelves
so you can start utilizing the space. This type of storage strategy works best
when you think of terms of what’s display-worthy. Your extra towels and
cleaning supplies aren’t going to look that great on the wall, but your kids’
toys or your collection of hats might. Pick out things that would make a great
display and put them up on the shelves instead of in the back of the closet.</span><br />
<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: Times, 'Times New Roman', serif;"><br /></span></div>
<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-Jnzu2h-DtZ4/T4__as4i1WI/AAAAAAAAAUU/D_tRz5AtFOg/s1600/CIMG2036.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: Times, 'Times New Roman', serif;"><img border="0" height="240" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-Jnzu2h-DtZ4/T4__as4i1WI/AAAAAAAAAUU/D_tRz5AtFOg/s320/CIMG2036.JPG" width="320" /></span></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: Times, 'Times New Roman', serif; font-size: small;">An example from my house - our vitamins. Evelyn</span></td></tr>
</tbody></table>
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<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: Times, 'Times New Roman', serif;">2. Look up</span></div>
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<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: Times, 'Times New Roman', serif;">Another area that’s often overlooked is the top of high
furniture. If you have a tall wardrobe or bookcase it’s unlikely that you’ve
used the space on top for storage. The best furniture for this kind of
application will be deep so the top has a lot of surface area. Remember that
you don’t have to fill up all the space if you’re concerned about the
appearance. You can put things near the wall and no one will be able to see
them from below. Make sure you choose items that you don’t need often because
getting them up and down can be a bit of a chore.</span></div>
<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: Times, 'Times New Roman', serif;"><br /></span><br />
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<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: Times, 'Times New Roman', serif;">3. Go to the bathroom</span></div>
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<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: Times, 'Times New Roman', serif;">The title might seem a little bit weird, but the bathroom is
typically underused when it comes to storage. Take a look at your bathrooms to
see what extra space could be converted into storage. Many showers have a ledge
above the shower that can be converted into a shelf for decorative boxes.
Depending on the layout of your bathroom, you can also create a corner nook to
hold everything from extra bathroom supplies to last year’s Christmas
decorations. You’ll be surprised at how much extra space you were ignoring in
the bathroom.</span></div>
<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: Times, 'Times New Roman', serif;"><br /></span><br />
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<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: Times, 'Times New Roman', serif;">4. Multipurpose when possible</span></div>
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<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: Times, 'Times New Roman', serif;">One of the most interesting storage solutions I’ve seen was
a living room chair that also served as a bookshelf. If you’re having trouble
imagining how that would work, picture a large lounge chair with a hollowed out
frame to hold books inside and the cushion on top. You might not be able to
make your current furniture hollow, but there are certainly some areas where you
can double up on usefulness. Take the drawers out of a side table and make it
into a bookshelf, or go even further and create an entire entertainment system
out of bookshelves. Whatever you do, make sure it serves at least two purposes.</span></div>
<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: Times, 'Times New Roman', serif;"><br /></span><br />
<div class="MsoNormal" style="margin: 0in 0in 0pt;">
<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: Times, 'Times New Roman', serif;">These tips should get you started on thinking creatively
about storage, but don’t forget your other options if you still don’t have
enough space. Self-storage is a good solution for anyone who simply can’t
squeeze out another inch of room.</span></div>
<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: Times, 'Times New Roman', serif;"><br /></span><br />
<div class="MsoNormal" style="margin: 0in 0in 0pt;">
<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: Times, 'Times New Roman', serif;">Author’s bio: Lisa Lane is an expert on <a href="http://www.selfstoragedeals.com/"><span style="color: blue;">storage units</span></a> and how to maximize usable
space in your home. She got her start in organization when she managed <a href="http://www.selfstoragedeals.com/tallahassee_fl/"><span style="color: blue;">storage units in
Tallahassee</span></a> but since then she moves and keeps her collection of rare books
in <a href="http://www.selfstoragedeals.com/virginia_beach_va/"><span style="color: blue;">storage units
in Virginia Beach</span></a>.</span></div>
<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: Times, 'Times New Roman', serif;"><br /></span><br />
<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: Times, 'Times New Roman', serif;">be organized.....evelyn</span><div class="blogger-post-footer"><a href="http://pinterest.com/EvelynCucchiara/"><img src="http://passets-cdn.pinterest.com/images/big-p-button.png" width="61" height="61" alt="Follow Me on Pinterest" /></a></div>Evelyn Cucchiarahttp://www.blogger.com/profile/13065402127158660602noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8351493653563730674.post-42811161665147219392012-04-12T09:11:00.000-04:002012-04-12T09:11:20.516-04:00How To Stop Drowning in Paper!So - how much paper comes into your house every day....every week? Where's it all ending up?<br />
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How about in here?<br />
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-HzSkXokbZCQ/T4bTTVXUmmI/AAAAAAAAATs/k99iSrA2Znk/s1600/CIMG2015.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="240" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-HzSkXokbZCQ/T4bTTVXUmmI/AAAAAAAAATs/k99iSrA2Znk/s320/CIMG2015.JPG" width="320" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">The famous Treasure Chest!</td></tr>
</tbody></table><br />
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This short 4 minute video I did will give you a fool proof system to deal with it before it takes over your life.<br />
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Watch it, do it, be it. Hope it makes your life just a little bit easier!<br />
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Have a great day!<br />
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be organized.....evelyn<br />
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p.s. - new website on the horizon soon - check back often for updates!<div class="blogger-post-footer"><a href="http://pinterest.com/EvelynCucchiara/"><img src="http://passets-cdn.pinterest.com/images/big-p-button.png" width="61" height="61" alt="Follow Me on Pinterest" /></a></div>Evelyn Cucchiarahttp://www.blogger.com/profile/13065402127158660602noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8351493653563730674.post-70603625037281852212012-03-29T08:52:00.002-04:002012-03-30T15:24:20.144-04:00Are There More Toys In Your House Than You Can Count? Here's What to Do About Them.....Toys taking over your life?<br />
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<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-KUrIjVbGlAk/T3RciJ8hR4I/AAAAAAAAATk/Qdh0vY9mSuU/s1600/CIMG1963.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="240" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-KUrIjVbGlAk/T3RciJ8hR4I/AAAAAAAAATk/Qdh0vY9mSuU/s320/CIMG1963.JPG" width="320" /></a></div><br />
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Get more done and have more fun with the ideas in this video.<br />
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And yes, that's me!<br />
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And my living room......<br />
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<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><iframe allowfullscreen='allowfullscreen' webkitallowfullscreen='webkitallowfullscreen' mozallowfullscreen='mozallowfullscreen' width='320' height='266' src='https://www.youtube.com/embed/FBIg0JMrqrs?feature=player_embedded' frameborder='0'></iframe></div><br />
Hope you got at least one idea in the video to make your life & home the heaven you want it to be.<br />
<br />
<br />
Changes are in the air! Exciting things coming up in the next few weeks...busy launching my book to best seller status and jumping in to write a new one! Stay tuned......<br />
<br />
be efficient & organized.....evelyn<div class="blogger-post-footer"><a href="http://pinterest.com/EvelynCucchiara/"><img src="http://passets-cdn.pinterest.com/images/big-p-button.png" width="61" height="61" alt="Follow Me on Pinterest" /></a></div>Evelyn Cucchiarahttp://www.blogger.com/profile/13065402127158660602noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8351493653563730674.post-65453612608264578692012-03-16T13:19:00.000-04:002012-03-16T13:19:07.040-04:00Is Your Refrigerator as Cool As You Are?So - how's your refrigerator looking these days?<br />
<br />
Crammed full? Inside & out?<br />
<br />
If it is, it's not helping your state of mind.<br />
<br />
Time to do something about it. Time to get a system for it.<br />
<br />
First - the outside.<br />
<ol><li>remove anything you've tacked to it. There are better places for utilitarian lists and notes - like the inside of your kitchen cabinets. That way you can see them when necessary, but everyone else doesn't have to.</li>
<li>give the surface a good cleaning with your favorite spray cleaner.</li>
<li>put something on the fridge that makes you smile. One magnet - fine. 400 magnets - not so fine. Clutter stuck to your fridge is just as bad as clutter on your table. They all effect your state of mind. </li>
<li>why not put something unique on the fridge? I have three framed oil paintings - I found them at a garage sale and just put magnetic tape on the back. Looks great - and I'm probably the only one on the block with that on the fridge! </li>
<table cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-7ybYL0cKdlE/T2NtvwwInwI/AAAAAAAAATA/rDxOQvgEJQA/s1600/CIMG1936.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="240" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-7ybYL0cKdlE/T2NtvwwInwI/AAAAAAAAATA/rDxOQvgEJQA/s320/CIMG1936.JPG" width="320" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">different huh?<br />
<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: small;"><br />
</span><br />
<div style="text-align: left;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: small;">Here's a close up:</span></div><div style="text-align: left;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: small;"><br />
</span></div></td></tr>
</tbody></table><table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="clear: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-Q--uRfPef6k/T2NvMe11RII/AAAAAAAAATI/IvyT6-lsX8U/s1600/CIMG1935.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="240" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-Q--uRfPef6k/T2NvMe11RII/AAAAAAAAATI/IvyT6-lsX8U/s320/CIMG1935.JPG" width="320" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">part kitchen, part art gallery</td></tr>
</tbody></table><li><div style="margin-bottom: 0px; margin-left: 0px; margin-right: 0px; margin-top: 0px;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: small;">Use your imagination - a favorite greeting card, a drawing from your child, (just one please, and do it up right - how about this </span><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: small;"><a href="http://weebabystuff.com/lilybee/posts/592-frame-kid-art-on-the-fridge"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="color: #cc0000;">ritzy magnetic frame</span></a></span><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: small;">? Maybe a postcard from your brother who's traveling cross country....again. (Just saying.)</span></div></li>
</ol>The point is to use the space for something uplifting and fun, not a clutter center.<br />
<br />
Now - for the inside. One of my first posts was all about cleaning, de-cluttering and setting up a system for your fridge. <a href="http://bestorganizingtips.blogspot.com/2011/04/best-organizing-tips-for-refrigerators.html"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="color: #cc0000;">Read it here.</span></a><br />
<br />
Now that you've got the steps, set a timer for 15 minutes and work on your fridge - inside or out, your choice. Which one is driving you crazy? Do that one first.<br />
<br />
Congrats! You've made a part of your world just a bit better!<br />
<br />
Your reward? Now set a timer for 15 minutes and go read, sit in the sun, take a power nap, whatever floats your boat. Take some time for yourself, you've earned it.<br />
<br />
be organized & efficient........<br />
Evelyn Cucchiara<br />
<br />
P.S. - Hey - I'm starting something new! In addition to my once a week blog posts (leave your email in the box on the right next to the title if you want to get them automatically), I'm going to start sending out a quick happiness blast every Friday morning. Want to be in the club that gets them? Shoot me an email at: evelyn@organizingwithevelyn.com or leave a comment below.<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"></div><div class="blogger-post-footer"><a href="http://pinterest.com/EvelynCucchiara/"><img src="http://passets-cdn.pinterest.com/images/big-p-button.png" width="61" height="61" alt="Follow Me on Pinterest" /></a></div>Evelyn Cucchiarahttp://www.blogger.com/profile/13065402127158660602noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8351493653563730674.post-46439140413330161292012-03-08T15:00:00.000-05:002012-03-08T15:00:31.802-05:00Bake Life More EasyNo - that's not a misprint.<br />
<br />
I'm spearheading a campaign to get more home baked goods back into the lives of everyday people. Back to the cookies and milk after school. Back to homemade dessert.<br />
<br />
Why? Lots of reasons.<br />
<ol><li>When you go to the store, the prices of muffins, cookies & cakes are astounding.</li>
<li>The first ingredient in many store bought goods is sugar.(How can that be? I don't think I've ever seen a recipe that has more sugar then flour in it -so how can it be possible for store bought goods? A question to ponder another time....)</li>
<li>Most baked items you buy at the store are full of junk. 'nuff said.</li>
<li>Memories are made of cookies baking in the oven - not sitting in a package on the counter.</li>
</ol>I'm here to tell you it's simple and easy to do your own baking. A few short recipes, <span class="Apple-style-span" style="color: #cc0000;"><a href="http://bit.ly/yQPGiw">click here for a super easy cake</a> </span> and <a href="http://bit.ly/vlaJ5j">here for a really easy muffin</a>,<br />
and you're good to go.<br />
<br />
But you do need to set your kitchen up to make it easy.<br />
<br />
Here's my idea for the day.<br />
<br />
Store your flour, sugar and other baking supplies in glass canisters on display in your kitchen<br />
<br />
Why?<br />
<ol><li>It's easier to bake something when you don't have to dig the flour out from behind the mountain of cereal in the closet.</li>
<li>You can see when you're running low and it's time to restock.</li>
<li>The canisters add to the "homeyness" of your home.</li>
</ol>Here's mine:<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-VRTYYYbv5MQ/T1jPU7jeoaI/AAAAAAAAASk/CCjGXV4sj3o/s1600/CIMG1916.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="240" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-VRTYYYbv5MQ/T1jPU7jeoaI/AAAAAAAAASk/CCjGXV4sj3o/s320/CIMG1916.JPG" width="320" /></a></div><br />
<br />
It's big canister - over a foot tall. Holds a five pound bag of flour with ease. I especially recommend Trader Joe's or King Arthur's White Whole Wheat Flour - all the nutrition of whole wheat without the heavy taste. Bakes just like white flour too! (Yes, I know I sound like Lucy in the Vitameatavegimin skit).<br />
<br />
I keep sugar in another -<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-tkc2lGu6DoI/T1kNg2bNKvI/AAAAAAAAAS0/5_iVrMMjm-g/s1600/CIMG1917.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="240" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-tkc2lGu6DoI/T1kNg2bNKvI/AAAAAAAAAS0/5_iVrMMjm-g/s320/CIMG1917.JPG" width="320" /></a></div><br />
The sugar is in a smaller canister. I think I got all of these at Pier One over 20 years ago!<br />
<br />
And they are simply stored on triangle wire shelves we put up in an unused corner. Works like a bakers rack - remember those? - but takes up lots less space. Also been there over 20 years. And those are the coffee pods for the Nespresso coffee maker behind the sugar. Love, love, love that coffee maker!<br />
<br />
So - that's it. A simple idea - but one that works really well. Now go try it. And go bake the muffins. They're really good!<br />
<br />
And anyone in the Madison, NJ area - I'm speaking at the Madison Library this Wednesday night - March 14th, 2012. Come on out and say hi - and get even more ideas on how to Get More Done While Having More Fun - my new motto.<br />
<br />
be organized....evelyn<br />
<br />
PS - Changes are-a-coming. Stay tuned for announcements and all sorts of new stuff!<br />
<br />
P. P.S. - Speaking of new stuff - In addition to my once a week blog posts (leave your email in the box on the right next to the title if you want to get them automatically), I'm going to start sending out a quick happiness idea every Friday morning. Want to be in the club that gets them? Shoot me an email at: evelyn@organizingwithevelyn.com or leave a comment below.<div class="blogger-post-footer"><a href="http://pinterest.com/EvelynCucchiara/"><img src="http://passets-cdn.pinterest.com/images/big-p-button.png" width="61" height="61" alt="Follow Me on Pinterest" /></a></div>Evelyn Cucchiarahttp://www.blogger.com/profile/13065402127158660602noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8351493653563730674.post-35526279354076809712012-03-01T07:49:00.001-05:002012-03-01T10:30:32.558-05:00The Little Green Pill That Makes Life Easy Again.So every once in awhile you come across a product that you would take with you to a deserted island.<br />
<br />
This is one of those products.<br />
<br />
<table cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="float: right; margin-left: 1em; text-align: right;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-H415I6EvDkA/T09ubU4dVuI/AAAAAAAAASc/0KBBEqWoLYU/s1600/CIMG1902.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="clear: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="240" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-H415I6EvDkA/T09ubU4dVuI/AAAAAAAAASc/0KBBEqWoLYU/s320/CIMG1902.JPG" width="320" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Possible again!</td></tr>
</tbody></table>It smooths out one of the biggest bumps in life.<br />
<br />
Time for a story!<br />
<br />
Once upon a time, there was a dairy family. No, they didn't raise cows - they ate a lot of dairy products. Especially ice cream. (Like you may remember from a previous blog. http://bit.ly/xyo9fA)<br />
<br />
And cheese.<br />
<br />
But there was a problem. And it wasn't a lack of calcium intake.<br />
<br />
The problem was that one of the youngest family members also had frequent tummy aches. To the point where the family would often find themselves racing around looking for a restroom. The average person would have made the connection sooner rather then later.<br />
<br />
This is no average family.<br />
<br />
Fast forward a few more years. Still eating dairy, still having tummy aches.<br />
<br />
One day the light bulb lit up! Maybe, possibly, could it be that the young family member was lactose intolerant? Eureka! Turned out the family member WAS lactose intolerant! And those big chewable pills you take before every meal are the answer!<br />
<br />
Well, not quite. Not so fast. Not for this family. What seemed like a perfect answer was really more of a nuisance. The family never seemed to remember the pill. It was home while they were out, it was out while they were home. And the young child didn't like the pill. Any missing it just once meant another search for the restroom. RIGHT THIS MINUTE!!!!!<br />
<br />
Again, the average family would have just given up dairy. Again, this is no average family. This is a family that regularly attends an ice cream festival and knows where every good ice cream parlor is in the state.<br />
<br />
And then one day a new pill was found! A pill that only gets taken once a day - like a vitamin!<br />
A pill that simply gives the body the enzyme it needs to process lactose!<br />
And the enzyme builds up in the body so if you forget it one day it makes no difference!<br />
And the pill is tiny and easy to swallow!<br />
<br />
That pill is Digestive Advantage Lactose Defense Formula!<br />
<br />
It really is magic. I know because we are that family.<br />
Since this over the counter pill came into our lives it's like the lactose intolerance has disappeared!<br />
<br />
You have got to try this. If you or anyone you know has a problem with lactose, get some of these pills. A month supply costs less then $10.00. Get more info here: <a href="http://www.schiffvitamins.com/product_detail.asp?id=206"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="color: #cc0000;">http://www.schiffvitamins.com/product_detail.asp?id=206</span></a><br />
<br />
Now I know this isn't an organizing tool, but it is a Life Made Better Tool, hence the reason I'm talking about it. I'm all for anything that makes life simpler, better, calmer happier. Just easier all around!<br />
<br />
be organized.....evelyn cucchiara<br />
<br />
P.S. - Hey - I'm starting something new! In addition to my once a week blog posts (leave your email in the box on the right next to the title if you want to get them automatically), I'm going to start sending out a quick happiness idea every Friday morning. Want to be in the club that gets them? Shoot me an email at: evelyn@organizingwithevelyn.com or leave a comment below.<div class="blogger-post-footer"><a href="http://pinterest.com/EvelynCucchiara/"><img src="http://passets-cdn.pinterest.com/images/big-p-button.png" width="61" height="61" alt="Follow Me on Pinterest" /></a></div>Evelyn Cucchiarahttp://www.blogger.com/profile/13065402127158660602noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8351493653563730674.post-41713875473569312052012-02-23T08:14:00.000-05:002012-02-23T08:14:33.825-05:00How to Display All those Flat Things - Once & For All!<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"></div><table cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="float: right; margin-left: 1em; text-align: right;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-zK4AhUeR0wU/T0Y5ZB40JgI/AAAAAAAAARU/SxUyh9UgcsQ/s1600/CIMG1876.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="clear: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="150" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-zK4AhUeR0wU/T0Y5ZB40JgI/AAAAAAAAARU/SxUyh9UgcsQ/s200/CIMG1876.JPG" width="200" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Have any like this?</td></tr>
</tbody></table>You know what I'm taking about. Somehow, displayable flat things tend to accumulate in your home. The plate that was Great Aunt Martha's. The postcard from that fabulous vacation. The plaster plaques that get made at birthday parties. Those clay fish the kids make in school.<br />
<br />
You prop them up. They fall down. They sit on your kitchen window sill. The languish on top of the dryer. It seems like you are always moving them from point A to B.<br />
<br />
I have a solution.<br />
<br />
It's easy & low cost.<br />
<br />
It will solve the problem.<br />
<br />
What is it you ask?<br />
<br />
It's all those corks that you've saved from wine bottles. Yes, those that are clogging up your kitchen drawer.<br />
<br />
Time to take them out and make them earn their keep.<br />
<br />
<table cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="float: right; margin-left: 1em; text-align: right;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-fxrWwcGa5k8/T0Y5_ZsvbRI/AAAAAAAAAR0/nAxwa_VdJ3g/s1600/CIMG1878.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="clear: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="150" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-fxrWwcGa5k8/T0Y5_ZsvbRI/AAAAAAAAAR0/nAxwa_VdJ3g/s200/CIMG1878.JPG" width="200" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">see...easy to add!</td></tr>
</tbody></table>All you have to do is hot glue them to the back of the plate/postcard/plaque/fish.<br />
<br />
The cork acts as a stand, making it easy to display the object without fear of it falling over.<br />
<br />
Here's an example.<br />
<br />
Two clay fish made by two of my children.<br />
<br />
Flat - they take up space. With a cork glued to the back, they can stand up and be seen.<br />
<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-LJihgm8tCW0/T0Y6ak4dOZI/AAAAAAAAAR8/BnV-DULNaQU/s1600/CIMG1881.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="150" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-LJihgm8tCW0/T0Y6ak4dOZI/AAAAAAAAAR8/BnV-DULNaQU/s200/CIMG1881.JPG" width="200" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">He stays vertical!</td></tr>
</tbody></table><br />
<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: right;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-MeEKE02P4eg/T0Y7Ev9HxII/AAAAAAAAASM/MwC3ONpcNQI/s1600/CIMG1883.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="clear: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="150" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-MeEKE02P4eg/T0Y7Ev9HxII/AAAAAAAAASM/MwC3ONpcNQI/s200/CIMG1883.JPG" width="200" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Now they swim happily!</td></tr>
</tbody></table>Go try it now. You'll wonder why you never thought of it.<br />
<br />
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><br />
</div>Happy displaying!<br />
<br />
be organized.....evelyn<br />
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"></div>P.S. - Hey - I'm starting something new! In addition to my once a week blog posts (leave your email in the box on the right next to the title if you want to get them automatically), I'm going to start sending out a quick happiness idea every Friday morning. Want to be in the club that gets them? Shoot me an email at: evelyn@organizingwithevelyn.com or leave a comment below.<div class="blogger-post-footer"><a href="http://pinterest.com/EvelynCucchiara/"><img src="http://passets-cdn.pinterest.com/images/big-p-button.png" width="61" height="61" alt="Follow Me on Pinterest" /></a></div>Evelyn Cucchiarahttp://www.blogger.com/profile/13065402127158660602noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8351493653563730674.post-15224763954330584522012-02-16T08:30:00.000-05:002012-02-16T08:30:18.857-05:00Hate Your Kitchen Table? Here's What To Do About It<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">How's your kitchen table looking these days? </div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;"><br />
</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">If you happen to live in a busy household, (like me), and your kitchen is the main hub of that household, (like me), and you bought a really inexpensive, okay, I admit it, cheap, pine table years ago from IKEA, (like me), your table may no longer be looking its best. And that's probably an understatement.</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;"><br />
</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">It probably has marks, scratches and impressions of long ago homework etched into its surface. </div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;"><br />
</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">It's not very happy.</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;"><br />
</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">Time for a makeover. An easy makeover. A makeover with personality, pizazz and a touch of personalization.</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;"><br />
</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">Think hand prints. But not your red, blue, yellow preschool-like hand prints. Think metallic hand prints. Now, I'm not against primary color hand prints, but they get old quickly. Especially when your kids keep growing. If you're going to invest a bit of time giving your table a makeover, you might as well do something that will stand the test of time. And you don't get sick of.</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;"><br />
</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">Here's my table. I did it years ago, and I'm still happy with it. The chairs are from IKEA also, I just covered the seats with fabric and a bit of padding.</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;"><br />
</div><table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-xE_q0yQ4PMk/Tzz0GzVyx_I/AAAAAAAAAQ4/I_FLvaffYh4/s1600/CIMG1853.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="240" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-xE_q0yQ4PMk/Tzz0GzVyx_I/AAAAAAAAAQ4/I_FLvaffYh4/s320/CIMG1853.JPG" width="320" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">The finished table. Interesting - right?</td></tr>
</tbody></table><div class="" style="clear: both; text-align: left;"><br />
</div><div class="" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">Here's how to do it. And it's not hard. I worked outside so I wouldn't have to worry about dust & fumes.</div><div class="" style="clear: both; text-align: left;"></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-4I9Y2Guokos/Tzz0KwjRMLI/AAAAAAAAARA/BZ0sBcSO_GA/s1600/CIMG1855.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="clear: right; float: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: 1em;"><img border="0" height="240" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-4I9Y2Guokos/Tzz0KwjRMLI/AAAAAAAAARA/BZ0sBcSO_GA/s320/CIMG1855.JPG" width="320" /></a></div><ol><a href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-ww9lsqbIqO0/Tzz0DIiDEMI/AAAAAAAAAQw/2Msx2g3ED28/s1600/CIMG1851.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="clear: right; float: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: 1em;"><img border="0" height="240" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-ww9lsqbIqO0/Tzz0DIiDEMI/AAAAAAAAAQw/2Msx2g3ED28/s320/CIMG1851.JPG" width="320" /></a>
<li>Sand the table slightly to get rid of any sealer on top.</li>
<li>If you want a color other then the table color, paint the top. I used a light green wash. You can see it on the edges.</li>
<li>Decide on a focal point - I used a napkin. It's the red circle thing in the picture. I simply put a bit or polyurethane on the table, then put the napkin down. I smoothed it with a paint brush.</li>
<li>Call the kids one at a time. Paint their hands with any paint you want - just make sure it is acrylic or latex. Something that is permanent once it's dry. </li>
<li>Make some hand prints. We also did fingerprints around the napkin.</li>
<li>Let dry.</li>
<li>If your table opens up for a leaf, carefully cut the napkin along the opening with a razor blade.</li>
<li>Coat the entire table top with polyurethane.</li>
<li>Let dry.</li>
<li>Coat it again.</li>
<li>Let dry.</li>
</ol>That's it! Your old worn out table is ready to live again. And as your kids get older, they get a kick out of seeing how much bigger their hands have grown.<br />
<br />
Want to really think outside the box? Don't use your kid's hand prints - use your pets. I guarantee your table will be one of a kind. And if you do that, take a picture and send it to me - I'd love to see that!<br />
<br />
be organized & happy.....evelyn cucchiara<br />
<br />
P.S. - Hey - I'm starting something new! In addition to my once a week blog posts <span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: x-small;">(leave your email in the box on the right next to the title if you want to get them automatically)</span>, I'm going to start sending out a quick happiness idea every Friday morning. Want to be in the club that gets them? Shoot me an email at: evelyn@organizingwithevelyn.com. First one will be tomorrow!<div class="blogger-post-footer"><a href="http://pinterest.com/EvelynCucchiara/"><img src="http://passets-cdn.pinterest.com/images/big-p-button.png" width="61" height="61" alt="Follow Me on Pinterest" /></a></div>Evelyn Cucchiarahttp://www.blogger.com/profile/13065402127158660602noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8351493653563730674.post-90172355009835989592012-02-09T08:11:00.000-05:002012-02-09T08:11:16.080-05:00Shhhh...The Secret to conquor Eczema once & for all!There's a light dusting of snow here on the ground in NJ, and that brings to mind how rough, dry & painful me hands used to be every winter. No more.<br />
<br />
The back story.<br />
<br />
I teach art everyday, so my hands are always in and out of water. This lead to an outbreak of eczema - a painful condition of the skin that goes way past simple dryness. Eczema is itchy, red, flaking and painful! Painful to the point of bleeding. And itchiness that makes poison ivy look like a walk in the park. Not good.<br />
<br />
I went to the doctor and was prescribed steroid creme, the usual remedy. This helped a bit, but I really didn't like the thought of putting all those steroids on my skin multiple times a day. And I mean multiple. And it was expensive.<br />
<br />
So I started experimenting. I bought all types of skin creams that promised to take care of the problem. some were really messy (thick cream and gloves every night at bed time), some were expensive (the one made from sheep lanolin from Australia comes to mind), but none of them did much good. Some would help a bit, but I always knew the eczema was hovering under the surface, just waiting to come back.<br />
<br />
Then I stumbled upon the secret formula.<br />
<br />
I say secret because it's not one product that takes care of the problem - it's the combination of two. Two unrelated products. And I have no idea if anyone other them me has ever combined the two.<br />
<br />
Ready - here's the answer -<br />
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-cLuOADTsRhM/TzPE8TXvGCI/AAAAAAAAAQg/vgYczjbI9q4/s1600/CIMG1841.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="240" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-cLuOADTsRhM/TzPE8TXvGCI/AAAAAAAAAQg/vgYczjbI9q4/s320/CIMG1841.JPG" width="320" /></a></div><br />
1. - O'Keefe's Working Hands Creme - this is a solid hand creme that is sold in the hardware section of DIY stores. Or <a href="http://www.amazon.com/OKeefes-Working-Hands-Creme-3-4-oz/dp/B0049HWKWQ"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="color: #cc0000;">here</span></a> online. And it's not expensive. And it lasts forever.<br />
<br />
but that's not the whole answer.<br />
<br />
You need to combine it with this-<br />
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-cRGA2GvZP2o/TzPFHKL3SgI/AAAAAAAAAQo/z7Kjkisa6n0/s1600/CIMG1842.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="240" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-cRGA2GvZP2o/TzPFHKL3SgI/AAAAAAAAAQo/z7Kjkisa6n0/s320/CIMG1842.JPG" width="320" /></a></div><br />
2. Avon Silicone Glove Creme - this is a protective layer that helps seal in the first creme. Available from your local Avon lady or<span class="Apple-style-span" style="color: #cc0000;"> <a href="http://www.amazon.com/Avon-Basics-Silicone-Glove-Cream/dp/B001BGBUY2/ref=sr_1_2?ie=UTF8&qid=1328792104&sr=8-2"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="color: #cc0000;">here</span></a>. </span>This is even cheaper.<br />
<br />
What you do is this - simply put on the Working Hands Creme first, then top off with the Silicone Glove.<br />
<br />
Then the magic happens. I don't know why, and I don't care. I just know it's been working for me.<br />
<br />
For years.<br />
<br />
Eczema is a thing of the past.<br />
<br />
And how do I know it's the combination and not just my skin healing?<br />
<br />
Because when I run out of one or the other, my eczema returns in a few days.<br />
<br />
And that's not good.<br />
<br />
If your hands are itchy & red, give it a shot. Cost is less then $10.00 - and relief is just a squeeze away.<br />
<br />
You're welcome.<br />
<br />
be organized.....evelyn<br />
<br />
P.S. - want more ideas? Try my book - just click <a href="http://www.organizingwithevelyn.com/"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="color: #cc0000;">here</span></a>.<div class="blogger-post-footer"><a href="http://pinterest.com/EvelynCucchiara/"><img src="http://passets-cdn.pinterest.com/images/big-p-button.png" width="61" height="61" alt="Follow Me on Pinterest" /></a></div>Evelyn Cucchiarahttp://www.blogger.com/profile/13065402127158660602noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8351493653563730674.post-62528698891190620382012-02-02T08:20:00.001-05:002012-02-02T09:23:07.283-05:00Expand Your Wardrobe Without Spending A Cent!Time to address one of those annoying little things in life. It's one of those things that once you do it, you wonder why you never thought of it before.<br />
<br />
Today we're talking sweaters.<br />
<br />
Not how itchy some can be.<br />
<br />
Not how soft some can be.<br />
<br />
We're talking how some of the softest can be the most annoying because THE BUTTONS GAPE!<br />
<br />
Picture this - you put on a sweater on a cold crisp day. It's cuddly, it's comfy. You button it up, and suddenly it looks like it has shrunk or you have (horrors!) grown bigger. Why? Because the buttons gape.<br />
<br />
This immediately makes you feel the size of a house, even if you wear a size 2. Which I don't. So imagine how I feel!<br />
<br />
I put up with this for years, taking sweaters out of the drawer, putting them on, only to put them back in when they just didn't look or feel right because of button gapege. Is that even a word? It should be. I was left with a dawer full of sweaters that I never wore. And I'm supposed to be organized.<br />
<br />
You know what I mean. Instead of the placket (that's the front of the sweater where the buttons are) lying flat, it pulls around the buttons so what should have been flat and smooth now looks likes scallops. Not a flattering look on anyone.<br />
<br />
One day it dawned on me. Since sweaters are stretchy, I could just sew them shut! It would still be easy to put on, almost easier since there are no longer any buttons to fuss with. Now I could just slide it over my head.<br />
<br />
I pulled out a seldom worn sweater, and tried it. It worked perfectly! I used my moms old Singer machine, but you could also do it by hand. No sewing skill is really required. A few stitches, and your wardrobe suddenly expands. What was once your nemesis sweater becomes your favorite.<br />
<br />
<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-q0Tzolu3Lzc/TyqI7l8Ny0I/AAAAAAAAAQI/MBJETc3iGS4/s1600/CIMG0140.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="240" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-q0Tzolu3Lzc/TyqI7l8Ny0I/AAAAAAAAAQI/MBJETc3iGS4/s320/CIMG0140.JPG" width="320" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Sew comfy now....get it? Sew instead of so?</td></tr>
</tbody></table><br />
That's what happened with this pink one. Loved the pattern, didn't love the way it looked. A few minutes with the machine - and perfect! See, you can't even tell in the pic, but it's sewed shut! Now it's as comfy as a T shirt! And I don't have to fuss with it all day. A winning solution.<br />
<br />
I also discovered that the sweaters I had that weren't supposed to be buttoned, open cardigans, looked and felt better, not to mention were warmer, when I sewed them shut and put on some decorative buttons.<br />
<br />
<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-7EL-el25QAc/TyqI_5YFB5I/AAAAAAAAAQQ/6ljzn32p8pI/s1600/CIMG1826.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="240" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-7EL-el25QAc/TyqI_5YFB5I/AAAAAAAAAQQ/6ljzn32p8pI/s320/CIMG1826.JPG" width="320" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">This used to hang open - adding pounds to me and not very warm.</td></tr>
</tbody></table><br />
Easy fix, and NOW I WEAR THEM!<br />
<br />
Try it on an old sweater that you never wear. See if it doesn't give new meaning to the word recycle. It's like going shopping in your closet!<br />
<br />
One quick tip for storing sweaters - roll them, don't fold them. I just finished a series of organizing videos on eHow - and one just happens to be on rolling sweaters. <a href="http://bit.ly/wJXmbT"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="color: #cc0000;">See it here</span></a>. Let me know what you think. I'm not comfy yet watching myself on video, so I haven't actually watched the whole thing. What does that say about me? I'm soooooo not going there.<br />
<br />
<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-1Z_jail_tys/TyqJDRUIR-I/AAAAAAAAAQY/yjusslpiqog/s1600/CIMG1827.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="240" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-1Z_jail_tys/TyqJDRUIR-I/AAAAAAAAAQY/yjusslpiqog/s320/CIMG1827.JPG" width="320" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">This will make sense once you watch the video.</td></tr>
</tbody></table><br />
All of the other videos are listed there also. Try the one about organizing kids toy - its a life saver! Not to mention a living room saver!<br />
<br />
That's it for today - I'm off to try the same idea on a shirt. The one I'm wearing right now because it's bugging me. I'll let you know how it works out.........<br />
<br />
update: It worked ! The shirt has a bit of stretch in it, so it's easy to pull over my head. I actually feel like I stand up straighter knowing that my shirt isn't going to gape. A success!<br />
<br />
be organized!<br />
<br />
evelyn<br />
<br />
PS- Don't forget - I wrote a book, <u>30 Days To An Organized Home</u>, with lots more ideas like these. Click over on the picture on the right to get a free sample!<div class="blogger-post-footer"><a href="http://pinterest.com/EvelynCucchiara/"><img src="http://passets-cdn.pinterest.com/images/big-p-button.png" width="61" height="61" alt="Follow Me on Pinterest" /></a></div>Evelyn Cucchiarahttp://www.blogger.com/profile/13065402127158660602noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8351493653563730674.post-11980125554063767592012-01-26T08:07:00.001-05:002012-01-26T08:08:36.870-05:00How to Look at Snow in a Whole New Way......It finally snowed here last week. Mother Nature was kind enough to send the snow on a Friday night, so no cancellation of school was necessary. I thought that was kind. My kids? Not so much.<br />
<br />
But I was able to bring a smile to their faces when I asked "Who wants snow pancakes?"<br />
<br />
Snow pancakes? Whaaaaa?????<br />
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"></div>You never heard of snow pancakes? Get ready to rock your world......<br />
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"></div><table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-INEUyVx8hm4/TyFOF4im9fI/AAAAAAAAAP4/R7fGVa-LH7o/s1600/CIMG1792.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="200" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-INEUyVx8hm4/TyFOF4im9fI/AAAAAAAAAP4/R7fGVa-LH7o/s200/CIMG1792.JPG" width="150" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Picture perfect snow pancakes</td></tr>
</tbody></table><br />
Snow pancakes are one of the easiest things to make - and it really impresses the kids. And any adults that happen to be around, for that matter.<br />
<br />
It's from a recipe written long, long ago when eggs were scarce in the winter, but snow was not.<br />
<br />
It's really easy. All you do is swap the eggs in any pancake recipe for snow. For every egg, use 2 tablespoons of snow instead. It doesn't have to be an exact measurement, just scoop some up.<br />
<br />
Here's the recipe I use:<br />
<table cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="float: right; text-align: right;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-peDHyvLnujU/TyFN1M_mWVI/AAAAAAAAAPg/TAEuTixrlwY/s1600/CIMG1784.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="clear: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="150" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-peDHyvLnujU/TyFN1M_mWVI/AAAAAAAAAPg/TAEuTixrlwY/s200/CIMG1784.JPG" width="200" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">This is how we gather it.<br />
<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: small;"><br />
</span></td></tr>
</tbody></table><br />
4 spoons of snow (or 2 eggs)<br />
2 cups flour - I use Trader Joe's white whole wheat<br />
2 cups milk<br />
2 tbs sugar<br />
1/4 cup oil<br />
1 tbs. baking powder<br />
<br />
<br />
<br />
Mix it all together. It will puff up as it sits. Pour some on a griddle, bake until set, flip, bake a bit more - enjoy!<br />
<br />
<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-EbHPNrmyJwk/TyFN5DGg_FI/AAAAAAAAAPo/FtqX7v6kVUw/s1600/CIMG1785.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="240" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-EbHPNrmyJwk/TyFN5DGg_FI/AAAAAAAAAPo/FtqX7v6kVUw/s320/CIMG1785.JPG" width="320" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">A large griddle makes it easier. Get one.</td></tr>
</tbody></table>I've never tried it with boxed pancake mix, but I'm guessing it would work. The recipe above is so easy though, why buy mix?<br />
<br />
Be sure to send the kids out to fetch the snow. It's part of the fun. And tell them to get CLEAN snow!<br />
<br />
No go look at that recent snowfall in a new light.<br />
<br />
By the way, did you know I wrote a book? Chock full of all sorts of ideas like the one above. It's called "30 Days To An Organized Home", and you can get a free sample <span class="Apple-style-span" style="color: #cc0000;"><a href="http://www.organizingwithevelyn.com/"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="color: #cc0000;">here</span></a>.</span> Go - do it now.<br />
<br />
be organized.....evelyn<span id="goog_1104961315"></span><span id="goog_1104961316"></span><div class="blogger-post-footer"><a href="http://pinterest.com/EvelynCucchiara/"><img src="http://passets-cdn.pinterest.com/images/big-p-button.png" width="61" height="61" alt="Follow Me on Pinterest" /></a></div>Evelyn Cucchiarahttp://www.blogger.com/profile/13065402127158660602noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8351493653563730674.post-16825741324457391982012-01-19T08:31:00.000-05:002012-01-19T08:31:00.545-05:00How To Hide Your Big Screen TV Without Your Husband Hitting The Roof!The bane of the big screen TV age.<br />
<br />
Your husband wants the biggest TV screen known to man.<br />
<br />
While you like watching the big screen, you don't like it staring at you when it's not on, a big black hole sucking the life out of the room.<br />
<br />
What to do, what to do.<br />
<br />
There are products on the market out there to take care of just this problem - but they're costly.<br />
<br />
I'm here to offer a solution. An inexpensive solution.<br />
<br />
A cheap, do it yourself, custom made solution that will make you both happy.<br />
<br />
The details. Here's my TV. Right smack in the middle of my living room. The first thing you see when you walk into my home.<br />
<br />
<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-dB2tBtOV658/TxgXfbYrUDI/AAAAAAAAANw/isX946LlI4s/s1600/CIMG1773.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="240" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-dB2tBtOV658/TxgXfbYrUDI/AAAAAAAAANw/isX946LlI4s/s320/CIMG1773.JPG" width="320" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">(Yes - I have a copper colored ceiling. If you want to see more about that, <a href="http://comeongethappyblog.wordpress.com/2011/06/23/painted-ceilings-happiness/"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="color: red;">click here</span></a>.) </td></tr>
</tbody></table><br />
Looks like a picture - right?<br />
<br />
Well, it is a picture. All I did was take a canvas, paint a picture on it, and hung it over the TV. Simple & effective. This is what it looks like when we're watching TV.<br />
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-qLdXRXYt6QI/TxgY1947dcI/AAAAAAAAAOQ/x4gyky1nC7k/s1600/CIMG1774.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="240" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-qLdXRXYt6QI/TxgY1947dcI/AAAAAAAAAOQ/x4gyky1nC7k/s320/CIMG1774.JPG" width="320" /></a></div><br />
<br />
Here's how you can do it too.<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"></div><br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"></div><ol><li>Measure the size of the area you want to cover. My TV has a huge black frame around the actual screen, so I decided to cover just the screen itself.</li>
<li>Order stretcher strips in exactly the size you need from any art supply store, or on line <a href="http://bit.ly/zgFGOI"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="color: #cc0000;">here</span></a><span class="Apple-style-span" style="color: red;">.</span> You will need 4 - two of the vertical measurement, 2 of the horizontal.</li>
<li>Order a piece of canvas at least 8 inches bigger then the size of your finished picture. Order it primed (means it already has a coating of white on it so you don't have to do it.) Again, an art supply store or <span class="Apple-style-span" style="color: red;"><a href="http://bit.ly/yDxLs4"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="color: red;">here</span></a>.</span></li>
<li>Assemble the stretcher strips. Stretch the canvas on the strips. You will need a staple gun for this. <a href="http://bit.ly/yLOjBS"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="color: red;">(easy directions on how to stretch a canvas here.)</span></a></li>
<li>Paint a picture on it with acrylic paints. Now, don't get intimidated by this. I found a picture in a catalog I liked, and then copied it onto the canvas. You could paint anything you want to - or have the kids do a masterpiece. The point is just get one color on it and have fun! Let dry.</li>
<li>Attach two hooks to the back. 2 wreath hangers work well for this. I made some hooks out of some strips of metal I had in the basement. </li>
<li>Screw the hooks to the back of the picture.</li>
<li>Apply some cushioning of some sort to the inside of the hooks so they won't scratch the TV screen. I used felt adhesive pads.</li>
</ol><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-vUTIuKj_GHM/TxgZET5XCUI/AAAAAAAAAOY/sf6VNSgyfyo/s1600/CIMG1776.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="150" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-vUTIuKj_GHM/TxgZET5XCUI/AAAAAAAAAOY/sf6VNSgyfyo/s200/CIMG1776.JPG" width="200" /></a></div>Taa daa! You're done!<br />
<br />
Now, when the TV is not in use, hang the picture over it. And when it is in use, put your picture below it. Mine happened to fit perfectly hanging on the moulding around the fireplace. See what works for you.<br />
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/--HsVhdtVWtI/TxgZdWmEUaI/AAAAAAAAAOg/CoiEf9qA3SI/s1600/CIMG1775.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="240" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/--HsVhdtVWtI/TxgZdWmEUaI/AAAAAAAAAOg/CoiEf9qA3SI/s320/CIMG1775.JPG" width="320" /></a></div><br />
Now you have the best of both worlds - big screen TV when you want it, and decorative picture when you don't. And a great conversation piece too!<br />
<br />
In need of more ideas like this one? There's lots more in my book, "30 Days To An Organized Home". <a href="http://www.organizingwithevelyn.com/"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="color: red;">Click here for more info.</span></a><br />
<br />
be organized.....evelyn<div class="blogger-post-footer"><a href="http://pinterest.com/EvelynCucchiara/"><img src="http://passets-cdn.pinterest.com/images/big-p-button.png" width="61" height="61" alt="Follow Me on Pinterest" /></a></div>Evelyn Cucchiarahttp://www.blogger.com/profile/13065402127158660602noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8351493653563730674.post-61499014805172399172012-01-12T08:25:00.000-05:002012-01-12T08:25:35.267-05:00Does This Drive You Crazy Like It Drives Me Crazy?I'm convinced that it will be the minor things that completely unhinge us. Am I right? What's on your list?<br />
<br />
One of the things on my list was spotty glasses. Now I know this sounds trivial, but everyday when I pulled a drinking glass out of the cabinet, it would depress me to see that what was once a shiny sparkling glass was now a cloudy mess. Almost white. Really, really bad. Got to the point where I didn't want to offer a drink to anyone!<br />
<br />
Anyway, before you think I'm just a terrible glass washer, let me place the blame where it belongs. It's not my fault.<br />
<br />
I live in the Northeast United States. We have really, really hard water. Full of all sorts of wonderful minerals. Minerals that leave your glasses and dishes looking like you never wash them. (This also means that we need to replace all of our faucets every few years. But that's another story for another day.)<br />
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-6bljrIOP2nk/Tw7crDh92WI/AAAAAAAAANk/-Fg3pZdTT9g/s1600/CIMG1760.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="clear: right; float: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: 1em;"><img border="0" height="150" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-6bljrIOP2nk/Tw7crDh92WI/AAAAAAAAANk/-Fg3pZdTT9g/s200/CIMG1760.JPG" width="200" /></a></div>Today I'm here to tell you I have found the Holy Grail, the answer to my cloudy glass problem. And it truly is a miracle.<br />
<br />
Non toxic.<br />
Cheap.<br />
Easy.<br />
(And no, the answer isn't buy all new glasses. I already did that. Only a temporary fix).<br />
<br />
The answer is - common everyday white VINEGAR!<br />
<br />
You will not believe how this solves the problem.<br />
<br />
<u><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: large;">The Steps</span></u><br />
<ol><li>Get a really big bottle of vinegar. Costco sells it by the gallon jug. Perfect.</li>
<li>Pour the vinegar into a basin or bowl.</li>
<li>Put your glasses in. It's best if you can submerge them, that may require purchasing 2 gallons of vinegar. I put mine in and rolled them around.</li>
<li>Let soak for an hour.</li>
<li>Give a quick scrub - and voila! Your glasses will be sparkling again!</li>
</ol>How can it be so easy you ask?<br />
I don't know.<br />
I don't care.<br />
I'm just happy it works.<br />
<br />
My second favorite use for vinegar? Getting rid of the hard water deposits from the above mentioned hard water. Just soak a cloth in vinegar, wrap it around the base of the fixture where the deposits accumulate, leave it there for the entire day, then just wipe away the residue.<br />
<br />
Again - how does it work? I have no idea. Do I care? Nope.<br />
<br />
There are hundreds of uses for vinegar. If you get so excited about your clean glasses & fixtures and just can't stop using it,<span class="Apple-style-span" style="color: red;"> <a href="http://www.vinegartips.com/Scripts/"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="color: red;">click here</span></a></span> to find out more ways vinegar can be your new best friend.<br />
<br />
And for those of you chanting about how I should just get a water softener - I have one. It just hasn't been installed yet. And that's really a story for another day!<br />
<br />
By the way, have you purchased my book yet? You really should. It will change your life for the better, give you back your free time and make wonder why you waited. <a href="http://www.organizingwithevelyn.com/"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="color: red;">http://www.organizingwithevelyn.com</span></a><br />
<br />
be organized.....evelyn<div class="blogger-post-footer"><a href="http://pinterest.com/EvelynCucchiara/"><img src="http://passets-cdn.pinterest.com/images/big-p-button.png" width="61" height="61" alt="Follow Me on Pinterest" /></a></div>Evelyn Cucchiarahttp://www.blogger.com/profile/13065402127158660602noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8351493653563730674.post-41354835954924687442012-01-04T09:19:00.000-05:002012-01-04T09:19:19.095-05:00The 2 ideas that will make your life happier. & easier.<a href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-Yk2JNtMRsx0/TwRfgwayylI/AAAAAAAAANc/yU4kz6TCD0k/s1600/CIMG1732.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="clear: right; float: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: 1em;"><img border="0" height="150" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-Yk2JNtMRsx0/TwRfgwayylI/AAAAAAAAANc/yU4kz6TCD0k/s200/CIMG1732.JPG" width="200" /></a>If nothing else, implement these two systems this month.<br />
<br />
You deserve happiness. <br />
<br />
You deserve time to do what you want to do when you want to do it.<br />
<br />
These 2 gems will give you that....and more.<br />
<br />
<span class="Apple-style-span" style="color: blue; font-size: large;">Save Your Sanity:</span> <a href="http://bestorganizingtips.blogspot.com/2011/12/simple-idea-that-will-save-your-sanity.html">http://bestorganizingtips.blogspot.com/2011/12/simple-idea-that-will-save-your-sanity.html</a><br />
<br />
<span class="Apple-style-span" style="color: blue; font-size: large;">Streamline Your Meals:</span> <a href="http://bestorganizingtips.blogspot.com/2011/09/dreading-dinnertime-tonight-heres.html">http://bestorganizingtips.blogspot.com/2011/09/dreading-dinnertime-tonight-heres.html</a><br />
<br />
Looking for more? Get tons of ideas in my book -<span class="Apple-style-span" style="color: red;"> <a href="http://www.organizingwithevelyn.com/"> just click here for more info</a>.</span><br />
<br />
be organized.....evelyn<div class="blogger-post-footer"><a href="http://pinterest.com/EvelynCucchiara/"><img src="http://passets-cdn.pinterest.com/images/big-p-button.png" width="61" height="61" alt="Follow Me on Pinterest" /></a></div>Evelyn Cucchiarahttp://www.blogger.com/profile/13065402127158660602noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8351493653563730674.post-26803217729903090242011-12-31T08:58:00.001-05:002011-12-31T09:00:37.165-05:00Another year gone.......I cannot believe it's almost 2012! Feels like the new millennium just began, but that was 12 years ago.<br />
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-SunQODR6An8/Tv8T16v6DjI/AAAAAAAAANQ/SkmG1gjVYqI/s1600/CIMG1731.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="clear: right; float: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: 1em;"><img border="0" height="150" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-SunQODR6An8/Tv8T16v6DjI/AAAAAAAAANQ/SkmG1gjVYqI/s200/CIMG1731.JPG" width="200" /></a></div>Even my 14 year old said it feels like it should be 2002.<br />
<br />
By 2012, weren't we supposed to be driving flying cars and living on the moon?<br />
<br />
And yet, it looks the same outside today as it has for years. December in NJ is usually grey, and today is no exception. Kind of dragging everyone down.<br />
<br />
But tomorrow is the start of a new year. I don't know about you, but I always feel like I get a new supply of patience, energy and hopefulness every January. (That's hope<u>ful</u>ness, not hope<u>less</u>ness.) By December, I'm used up. Thank goodness the new year is upon us! Now I'm just waiting for that burst of New Year's energy. It hasn't arrived yet.<br />
<br />
Are you one of those people who makes New Year Resolutions?<br />
<br />
I'm not.<br />
<br />
I figure why set yourself up to fail.<br />
<br />
Instead I'm going to try and put in place a few new systems to help make my life run smoother. That's my goal for this new year. Make life run s-m-o-o-t-h-e-r. And I love systems.<br />
<br />
I've got lots of systems in place already, but there's always room for improvement - right? I'm going to focus on finances and exercise. Small bites, a little bit at a time.<br />
<br />
Forgive me for rambling, but that's how my mind is this last day of December.<br />
<br />
Give yourself the gift of nothingness today. Go within and comfort yourself with cocoa, down time and relaxation. You deserve it - it's been a hard year.<br />
<br />
See you in 2012! Yikes!<br />
<br />
be organized.....evelyn<br />
<br />
If you want to see some of my systems, take a look at my book....<span class="Apple-style-span" style="color: #cc0000;">.<a href="http://www.organizingwithevelyn.com/"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="color: #cc0000;">http://www.organizingwithevelyn.com</span></a></span><br />
Get a free sample here.......no obligation, just click, enter your email, hit send and voila - free tips for your kitchen! <span class="Apple-style-span" style="color: #cc0000;"> </span><span class="Apple-style-span" style="color: #cc0000;"><a href="mailto:freesample@organizingwithevelyn.com">freesample@organizingwithevelyn.com</a></span><div class="blogger-post-footer"><a href="http://pinterest.com/EvelynCucchiara/"><img src="http://passets-cdn.pinterest.com/images/big-p-button.png" width="61" height="61" alt="Follow Me on Pinterest" /></a></div>Evelyn Cucchiarahttp://www.blogger.com/profile/13065402127158660602noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8351493653563730674.post-20686726802368916612011-12-22T08:46:00.001-05:002011-12-22T08:47:18.145-05:00Don't Let Your Family Get Away With This!Christmas traditions.<br />
<br />
Always fun to plan & participate in. Putting up the tree, decorating for the holidays.<br />
<br />
Hopefully your family members participate in this and your have some fun traditions built up around what really is a lot of work. We have a doughnut/champagne tradition. It makes the entire family really look forward to decorating.<br />
<table cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="float: right; text-align: right;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-WLxshfGWj8g/TvMw7N9vYWI/AAAAAAAAAMY/w94Ol1t19Tk/s1600/CIMG1714.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="clear: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="150" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-WLxshfGWj8g/TvMw7N9vYWI/AAAAAAAAAMY/w94Ol1t19Tk/s200/CIMG1714.JPG" width="200" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">If only this was all there was to put away.....<br />
<br />
</td></tr>
</tbody></table><br />
Then comes the time to take down the decorations. Suddenly everyone is "busy". And undecorating becomes your responsibility.<br />
<br />
Don't let your family get away with this. <br />
<br />
Time to start a new tradition that accompanies TAKING DOWN the decorations.<br />
<br />
<div style="text-align: left;"></div>No more.<br />
<br />
<table cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="float: right; text-align: right;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-MRvbsGQcPpg/TvMzckl4HSI/AAAAAAAAANE/Pm3usCG2KWE/s1600/CIMG1717.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="clear: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="150" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-MRvbsGQcPpg/TvMzckl4HSI/AAAAAAAAANE/Pm3usCG2KWE/s200/CIMG1717.JPG" width="200" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">circa 1968, made by me!<br />
<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: small;"><br />
</span></td></tr>
</tbody></table> There's nothing worse then doing the undecorating all by yourself. Your holly is no longer jolly. The tree is just something you trip over. And there's lots of big boxes to carry up a whole bunch of stairs.<br />
<br />
Last year in our house we started a new tradition. Hey, it worked for us!<br />
<br />
Here's how:<br />
<ol><li>Write in PEN a date on the calendar to undecorate. Make sure everyone is free on that day. For the entire day. Having to rush or having one family member missing undermines the entire thing!</li>
<li>Pick something you all like to eat that can be personalized. We all love pizza, so on that day everyone can get whatever toppings they want on the pizza. We have 4 people, so 2 pies with 1/2 toppings each fills the bill. No sharing! Everyone gets exactly what they want. Sandwiches would work too, Chinese - whatever is your families thing. The point is that everyone gets exactly what they want </li>
<li>Get fun beverages also - this is not the day to limit people's choices. You want happy elves, not disgruntled ones.</li>
<li>Put some upbeat music on - swing, 50's, anything that has a quick moving beat. Keeps the family going. Nothing like bopping to the beat, eating your favorite food, and putting ornaments away!</li>
<li>Make/buy some spectacular dessert that you can't cut into until EVERY LAST SCRAP OF HOLIDAY CHEER IS PACKED AWAY!</li>
</ol><br />
That's it! Create a system that makes a dreary activity into a fun family activity. I'm all about the systems...........<br />
<br />
And stay tuned - next week I'm shooting a series of eHow videos all about common organizing problems. With a videograper! I'll let you know as soon as they're posted.<br />
<br />
Want a free sample of my book?......no obligation, just click, enter your email, hit send and voila - free tips for your kitchen!<br />
<br />
<span class="Apple-style-span" style="color: #cc0000;"><a href="mailto:freesample@organizingwithevelyn.com">freesample@organizingwithevelyn.com</a></span><br />
<br />
See you next year!<br />
<br />
be organized.....evelyn<div class="blogger-post-footer"><a href="http://pinterest.com/EvelynCucchiara/"><img src="http://passets-cdn.pinterest.com/images/big-p-button.png" width="61" height="61" alt="Follow Me on Pinterest" /></a></div>Evelyn Cucchiarahttp://www.blogger.com/profile/13065402127158660602noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8351493653563730674.post-3145967151181071802011-12-18T11:59:00.001-05:002011-12-18T12:00:45.494-05:00My Ah Ha MomentMy question is: how many times do I have to knock over something before I fix it? In my case, the answer is lots & lots.<br>
<br>
Let me explain.<br>
<br>
<a href="http://bestorganizingtips.blogspot.com/2011/12/my-ah-ha-moment.html#more">Read more »</a><div class="blogger-post-footer"><a href="http://pinterest.com/EvelynCucchiara/"><img src="http://passets-cdn.pinterest.com/images/big-p-button.png" width="61" height="61" alt="Follow Me on Pinterest" /></a></div>Evelyn Cucchiarahttp://www.blogger.com/profile/13065402127158660602noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8351493653563730674.post-64616717456316301932011-12-08T08:31:00.000-05:002012-08-27T17:27:42.939-04:00The Simple Idea That Will Save Your SanityYes, I'm claiming a lot with the title of this post.<br />
<br />
And yes, I mean it.<br />
<br />
Do this one idea regularly, and your life will be saner. You will be happier. And your house will be neater.<br />
<br />
I'm talking about <span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: large;"><u>THE FAMILY CLEAN UP</u></span>.<br />
<br />
What is that you may ask?<br />
<br />
It's a simple idea that removes <u>YOU</u> from being in charge of keeping your house neat.<br />
<br />
It removes <u>YOU</u> from being the person who bugs everyone else about keeping the house neat.<br />
<br />
Takes a bit of rewiring your family at first, but then it's a no brainer.<br />
<br />
The simple steps:<br />
<table cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="float: right; margin-left: 1em; text-align: right;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-OBEEgRMAqAg/TuC7s946SJI/AAAAAAAAAK8/x1DBMT5P6Mc/s1600/CIMG1700.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="clear: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="240" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-OBEEgRMAqAg/TuC7s946SJI/AAAAAAAAAK8/x1DBMT5P6Mc/s320/CIMG1700.JPG" width="320" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Get more time to do this - in a neat house!<br />
<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: small;"><br />
</span></td></tr>
</tbody></table>
<br />
<ol>
<li>gather your family together twice a week. We use a bell, the same bell we ring for dinner time.</li>
<li>first come gets first choice of jobs. In our house the choices are - quick vacuuming, cleaning the bathrooms, dusting & decluttering. You'll have to show them how to do the jobs at first, but then it runs smoothly.</li>
<li>each family member goes off and does their job.</li>
<li>since you're all working together, no one feels they got the short end of the stick. And everything gets done quickly.</li>
<li>results? In just 15 minutes or less, your house is now neat, tidy and clean. (At least on the surface. I do a deeper vacuuming & bathroom cleaning once a week.)</li>
<li>you no longer have to vacuum under kids feet while they are playing video games. That alone makes the entire thing worthwhile!</li>
</ol>
<br />
The long term results of this idea are as follows:<br />
<br />
<ul>
<li>no one is late because first there gets first choice of jobs.</li>
<li>your kids learn all types of home care jobs - enough to keep them going once they leave the nest.</li>
<li>you are not a one woman cleaning team anymore.</li>
<li>your house is guest ready at all times.</li>
</ul>
<br />
Try it out! Your family may surprise you.....one of my sons always picks cleaning the bathrooms!<br />
<br />
Yes, it's a bit radical to expect your family to help keep the house neat, but trust me, it works!<br />
<br />
It's simply another system, one that works for you and not against you.<br />
<br />
What do you have to lose?<br />
<br />
Check out my website for more ideas.....<a href="http://www.allevelyn.com/">http://www.allEvelyn.com</a><br />
<br />
be organized.....evelyn<div class="blogger-post-footer"><a href="http://pinterest.com/EvelynCucchiara/"><img src="http://passets-cdn.pinterest.com/images/big-p-button.png" width="61" height="61" alt="Follow Me on Pinterest" /></a></div>Evelyn Cucchiarahttp://www.blogger.com/profile/13065402127158660602noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8351493653563730674.post-38848158501462459322011-12-01T10:28:00.000-05:002011-12-01T10:28:53.122-05:0010 Steps To Homemade Joy'Tis the season for running around like a crazy person, cramming too much into every day, and still not feeling the joy of the holidays.<br />
<br />
Am I wrong?<br />
<br />
No more. Time to stop and smell the Christmas tree. I'm not going to tell you how to streamline your day, I'm going to tell you how to get more joy out of it - with a simple system that puts the fun back into the holidays for your entire family.<br />
<br />
And that system is..........An Advent chain. <span id="goog_1758300382"></span><span id="goog_1758300383"></span><br />
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-Vx7HFQSkE3U/Ttec8g3OMLI/AAAAAAAAAK0/XrCoPvne2xM/s1600/CIMG1688.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="150" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-Vx7HFQSkE3U/Ttec8g3OMLI/AAAAAAAAAK0/XrCoPvne2xM/s200/CIMG1688.JPG" width="200" /></a></div><br />
Doesn't matter if you're religious or not, doesn't matter what holiday you celebrate, doesn't even matter what you call it. It's simply a system to ensure that you do fun holiday type things strictly for the enjoyment of it. Remember that word? FUN?<br />
<br />
Here's how it works.<br />
<ol><li>Pick a start date. We celebrate Christmas, so Dec 1 is our start date. </li>
<li>Cut strips out of construction paper, whatever colors are appropriate for the holiday. Our strips are 1 1/2" wide x 12" long, red & green.</li>
<li>Divide the strips between family members</li>
<li>Each person writes one enjoyable activity per strip. It can be anything as long as it's easily doable and not expensive. Keep them secret! For example, our strips might include - watch a favorite holiday show, go see a light display in our PJ's, give a group hug. (That was this mornings from one of my sons!). </li>
<li>If any chain entries need special equipment, like marshmallows for cocoa, start a list so you can get the supplies and have them ready. If you're afraid people might eat the supplies, put a sticky note on them, or keep them in a hidden spot.</li>
<li>Mix up the strips of paper.</li>
<li>Assemble them into a paper chain. Use tape or staples.</li>
<li>Hang it over your breakfast table.</li>
<li>Every morning take turns having a family member breaking the next link off the chain and reading it aloud. There's your fun activity for the day! We post the strips on the fridge so everyone knows whats coming, and if we can't get to it that day, we won't forget. Don't stress out over it - if you get too backlogged, forget about some of them The point here is to get some enjoyment into the holiday, not give you more to do.</li>
<li>This is the perfect place to list all those holiday things you want to do but never seem to get to. And it makes a fun start to the morning.</li>
</ol>We've been doing this for years - when we started, the kids were too young to do their own strips, so my husband & I did all of them Now, we all contribute, so it's a surprise for everyone.<br />
<br />
I can't tell you how much joy this simple tradition brings to the holidays. And it removes the guilt of YOU having to be in charge of all the fun for the family. And, it removes all those activities from your head where they've been rolling around. Get them out of your brain, into a system that takes care of them, and on to the enjoyment instead!<br />
<br />
One more way to remove all the "shoulds" from your brain - my friend Csilla who ids a health coach just launched a free series of video tips on how to stay healthy and keep your eating in check over the holidays. One a day - short, easy to implement and free!<a href="http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=ZuSsrpqpuVI"> <span class="Apple-style-span" style="color: #cc0000;">Check them out <span class="Apple-style-span" style="color: #cc0000;">here. </span></span></a><br />
<br />
be organized.....evelyn<br />
<br />
Want an unusual gift for the holidays for someone you know really well? How about my book - 30 Days To AN Organized Home - see the details here - <a href="http://www.organizingwithevelyn.com/"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="color: #cc0000;">http://www.organizingwithevelyn.com </span></a><div class="blogger-post-footer"><a href="http://pinterest.com/EvelynCucchiara/"><img src="http://passets-cdn.pinterest.com/images/big-p-button.png" width="61" height="61" alt="Follow Me on Pinterest" /></a></div>Evelyn Cucchiarahttp://www.blogger.com/profile/13065402127158660602noreply@blogger.com0