One Year to an Organized Life

My Blog Has Moved!

2014-07-15T16:44:00.002-07:00

Last September I moved into a new apartment. I downsized from 1200 sq ft to 700 because I had fallen in love. His name is Charlie.

He's a pretty special guy. Charlie is a miracle dog. He survived distemper. He was bounced around the first 6 months of his life from a shelter to a rescue to a loving home and then back to the rescue and then to an animal hospital for isolation during a drug trial for a new distemper drug and then back to the rescue...Whew! He lived with a dear friend of mine for almost 3 months while I looked for an apartment that accepted pets. At last just before he turned 8 months he moved in with me. He's just beginning to realize that the bouncing around era of his life is over. He's got a mom. And he's Home.

I've started blogging at my new web site www.ReginaLeeds.com. I hope you'll check out the new posts. There was a lag for a few months while I wrote my new book. It's called Right Size! Right Now! It's about downsizing and preparing to move. It came out of my immediate experience and I'm very proud of it. It will be released in June, 2015 but there will be leaks along the way. Moving other people has been one of my favorite tasks since I started my business 25 years ago. In my personal space I felt I had the items I truly wanted and needed. But when you lose 500 sq ft you need to lose furniture and items you thought were sacred possessions. The funniest thing for me is that I don't have a free sq inch. If I see a piece of furniture I like or a painting or photograph that makes me happy I have to realize I don't have any free wall or floor space. It's not a big deal. It is an adjustment. The less you have the more you appreciate what you do hold dear and the freer you are. That's my takeaway. I'm still practicing what I preach as The Zen Organizer.

I did initial blog posts at my web site about two of my books. Today I started a new series introducing you to vendors I use and recommend to my clients. These posts will be once or twice a month. I want you to start early for holiday shopping and of course I just know that someone is having a birthday, wedding or anniversary in your life. Every time I post a new piece I'll pop back here to invite you to check it out. This week my referral is to the wonderful folks at UncommonGoods.com. I've shopped there for many years. They have high quality items and many have a touch of whimsy that so appeals to me. This week I found out they are based in my hometown Brooklyn, New York. How great is that?!

If you have any special blog topics you want me to address please feel free to write to me.

Mother's Day: A Tribute to the First Zen Organizer

2014-05-11T16:16:00.000-07:00

This is a photo of my mom holding me on a visit to her family. I was a sickly baby who nearly died right after I was born and my mom was told to keep me warm. As you can see she took those words to heart! I'm guessing this was September or October and no one wears a snow suit during those months but there I am all bundled up against the Fall breezes. Ironically I'm always cold and have trouble staying warm. Can it stem from those days? Just kidding ...

My mother figures prominently in many of my books because she was indeed the first Zen Organizer. Her mantra was 'There is a place for everything and everything should be in its place so the next time you need it or want it you will be able to find it.' Mom couldn't stand wasting time looking for an item. She did have a funny quirk I never understood. The public spaces were always pristine and perfect. We had no piles in the Brooklyn brownstone of my childhood. But in drawers and in closets it was a free for all and my mother explained it this way: "Why should I care what it looks like? No one is going to see it but me." I felt those personal spaces were just as important because order there was a way to express healthy self-love and high self-esteem. After I became a professional organizer I was even more convinced this is the truth and I urge all of my clients to create order and peace in every nook & cranny of their environments.

My mother never procrastinated. Once a task was on her To Do list she was on it like white on rice. She made me tackle homework assignments the second I got them. She assured me I'd be grateful to have free time later on. Feeling last minute pressure was as big a waste of time to her as searching for lost keys. My mother was the queen of categories and realized their power. She was more sentimental than I am and saved a lot of things I would toss in a heartbeat. In fact I did toss most of what she saved after she died. What was I going to do with all of my notebooks from grammar school? I was her only child, an accident and a 'late in life' baby. Whatever I touched was sacred to her and remembering her desire to hold on helps me counsel parents not to repeat her mistake. What would you think of a 40 year old adult who wanted to haul out his or her first grade notebooks for you to see? You get the idea. Her talents and her failings in the world of organizing made me a better teacher and organizer.

Looking at old photos is an amazing experience because you have a chance to view people from a fresh perspective. My mother wanted a different kind of child and I was hurt by her inability to love me for me not for the person she hoped to create. When you want a doctor or a lawyer and your only child announces she wants to be an actress and a singer there's a divide that must be healed. My mom died not long after I left college and we never had time to heal but I look at this photo and all I can feel is how much I love her. I miss those big Lebanese hands wrapped around me giving me a bear hug. I had no clue she was preparing me for my life's work. Thanks, Mom. I hope you know how grateful I am. You were indeed the first Zen Organizer!

The Best Time to Buy Organizing Tools

2014-02-11T11:00:00.000-08:00

Here's an image from The Container Store's website. Isn't this a Zen closet? In recent years when I arrive to create such a space for a client I very often find they have a vast collection of organizing tools. Some have been purchased for the project at hand while most were purchased because they were 'pretty' and my client was convinced that 'one day they would come in handy.' Organizing tools are the new clutter. And it's not uncommon for them to have their own closet!

In my One Year to ... series I suggest you do the eliminating and categorizing before you go shopping. If you purchase a box of 100 hangars and later discover you only have 45 items to hang, what will you do with the overflow? This example applies all over the home to all types of projects. Whittle down. Put like with like. Do a literal count. And then go shopping!

Rewards: Think Outside the Box

2014-02-10T10:36:00.001-08:00

Yes, those are bug drawer pulls from Anthropologie. Stick with me.

Rewards are very difficult to schedule for many people. I love Anthropologie and their design sensibility. When I found these in my morning mail I thought they would make a fun reward for someone who had just organized a bedroom or kitchen or ~ wherever your flight of fancy takes you!

Who said a reward had to be something like a hot bath, trip to a day spa or a new dress? A reward can be something that will remind you of your accomplishment every time you see it or use it. Rewards like this also delight everyone with whom you share your home.

If you find rewards difficult to schedule try and change your perspective especially if you have children. Let them grow up feeling worthy.

If you buy something fun like this please send me a photo of the finished project. Your creativity can be a boon to others.

The Power of the Past

2014-02-05T12:16:00.001-08:00

The man who called me made me smile. He told me clearly what the problems were and how they had to be addressed. I wondered why he needed me?

Sometimes we get stuck and the reasons are not obvious. When we met I could feel his energy. There was something about the task of organizing his new office that had a big emotional charge. I needed to put on my Sherlock Holmes hat and get to the bottom of the mystery.

When I work with clients our conversations are the equivalent of journaling. Slowly the story was revealed: he had been in business with a friend who betrayed him. Setting up a new file system and archiving material from the past were filled with painful reminders of a time he wanted to forget. Once we connected the dots there was a release.

Do you drag your feet about organizing some part of your home or office? Grab your literal notebook or create one at SpringPad and free yourself from the energetic and unconscious ties to the past.

Create your Zen Organizer Journal at SpringPad

2014-02-04T13:01:00.002-08:00

Yes, it's true: I'm using the same visual two days in a row.

Yesterday I referenced SpringPad's amazing ability to cut down on paper clutter. (Please remember that there is such a thing as digital clutter!). Today I'd like to invite you to get the (free) notebook I created for my followers at SpringPad. Noodle around the site (using your smart phone or computer) and start to get a feel for how this program can serve you. It's like having a virtual assistant without paying a fee.

In all the One Year to ... books I suggest you use a notebook, right? Well, who said it had to be one you hold in your hands? Why not create a digital journal at SpringPad and use it as the perfect place to answer the journal prompts in my books? You can also create grocery lists, chore charts, packing lists et al and tweak them over time as your needs change.

Here's the link to get your creative juices flowing!

http://organize.springpad.com/reginaleeds/.

Going Paperless Can Reduce Stress

2014-02-03T10:56:00.001-08:00

The Top 5 Reasons Why Going Paperless Can Help You Reduce Stress

Theres is a lot of discussion these days about how technology can add stress to our lives. But just like anything else, there are always two sides to the story, and it’s true that technology can also be very helpful. One way you can use technology to improve your life is by going paperless. Digital organization tools like Springpad are great for replacing paper. You can use it to create to-do lists, jot down notes or create recipe books, just to name a few of its features. Plus, it does it all without using a single piece of paper - all you need is a smartphone, tablet or computer! Here are the top 5 reasons why going paperless can help remove stress from your life:

1. All of your notes in one place

Paper is easy to misplace. We often make multiple to-do lists, only to lose track of one or more of them and having to recreate them from memory. This can cause unnecessary stress, forcing you to worry about where everything is. When you replace paper with digital tools like Springpad, you can keep all of your tasks and notes in one place, so you’ll never have to wonder where you wrote down that shopping list.

2. Reduces waste

Man-made waste has become a serious problem in the modern world and although paper recycling has become more prominent, the issue still remains. Going paperless limits your contribution to this problem, which can improve your overall happiness. Do good, feel good!

3. Easy to search for old documents

Using your computer to save documents instead of keeping them in boxes or drawers can help make your files easier to find. Reduce stress by not having to worry wear you’ve filed away old papers.

4. Saves space

Getting rid of all that paper means getting rid of the things you used to store them in, which can free up a lot of space in your home. Maintaining clear spaces where you live is wonderful for you overall well-being and happiness.

5. Saves money

Paper costs money. When you go paperless, you’ll rarely ever need to pick up stationery, notepads or extra writing utensils again! All those little costs add up, but getting rid of them will free up a little extra money to save or use for the things that matter most!

Organizing Tip of the Week (Is your purse heavier this time of year?)

2014-01-29T10:10:00.000-08:00

At some point during an organizing session I will inevitably pick up a client's purse to either hand it to her or move it out of the way. It always weighs a ton! I tease my clients and say that if I just stop for a minute and 'pump the purse' I'll have toned biceps.

But super heavy purses are no laughing matter. They place stress on your shoulder and neck. I'm all for keeping chiropractors in business but not for this reason. Follow the Magic Formula and dump everything out in a clear work zone. Usually that's the dining room table or your bed. Start eliminating what you don't need to carry. File your receipts. Toss those empty gum wrappers, stale candy bars and whittle your make up and hair accessories down to what you realistically need for a quick touch up.

Now create categories. Keep them together with something like the above tool you can insert inside your 'big bag.' But let me say that this solution doesn't work for me. Why would I need a purse inside my purse? How much does it weigh before I add a single item? You catch my drift. I like zippered pouches that will hold my individual categories. You can find a nice selection at The Container Store.

I've written about heavy purses before but it bears repeating during this season when most people are schlepping extra sweaters and shoes or boots. If you have to transport a bevy of items at least divide and conquer: keep valuables and cosmetics in your purse and those seasonal items in a carry all. Your back will thank you for the divided load!

I promised career news in my last post and here it is for those who took the time to read to the end: I'm working on book number 10! It's called Downsize Your Life and is all about doing better with less and managing a successful move to a new location. I spent 6 months last year changing my own life and location. I'm oh so ready to help you do the same!

Review Resolutions ~ a late January ritual

2014-01-26T18:07:00.003-08:00

I am surprised to see I haven't written a post since Thanksgiving! I needed a break to refresh my body, mind and perspective in order to offer you the best material possible. Now as they say ... I'm back! Did you make any New Year's Resolutions? Have they gone by the wayside or did you surprise yourself? As exciting a night as New Year's Eve is it's only one midnight of many, right? You always have a chance to begin again. Don't get stuck in self recriminations just get going again!

I decided to work on four things this year. I hope you don't mind if I share my personal goals with you for 2014.

After a decade off I started to cook again and host intimate dinner parties. Cooking was once a passion and now I am enjoying old favorite recipes and slowly experimenting with some new ones. I've been a lacto-ovo vegetarian for 30 years (that means I eat eggs and dairy but no meat, fowl, fish or poultry). I'm toying with the idea of going vegan out of respect for my animal friends who suffer so much on factory farms.
When I was just out of college I was fluent in French. I adore the language, the people and the country but the years pass and with no way to practice I was reduced to pleasantries. I have no doubt that I sound like a five year old when the opportunity to speak arises. I decided to study again just for the love of the language with no particular goal in mind and certainly no thought of ever being fluent again. Voila! I made the commitment and what should come to me but a great, free language app called Duolingo. I'm giving about 10 minutes a day to practice. We'll see where I am in a year. You can learn several languages with this app and it's fun.
I decided to learn how to read music but I gave myself a start date of March 1st so that I wasn't overwhelmed. I shared this goal with friends and guess what happened? I was gifted with an electronic keyboard and directed to two websites that teach music on the net. I'll check them out and once I get started I'll let you know my progress.
I saved the best for last. I've always adopted dogs who were at least a year old because puppies are a huge responsibility. Last year however I fell in love with my Charlie when he was 6 months old. He turned one on the 19th of January and we're in the middle of a year long adventure. I have a private trainer to fine tune our relationship and we go to a group class so he can master the basics. It requires patience and practice every single day. I want Charlie to have a 'job' because I think every being functions better when they have a purpose. Will we do rally together? Will he turn out to be a service dog? Will he charm the media on my behalf? It's all to be revealed. Right now 'Sit,' 'Down,' 'Stay' and 'Leave it' are all we can wrap our minds around.

What are you learning, changing or dreaming about this year? Whatever it is an organized approach will make your journey an easier one than if you're flying blind on emotion. Let me know what you are up to! Tomorrow I have some career news.

HAPPY THANKSGIVING!

2013-11-28T10:40:00.004-08:00

May you have a beautiful day filled with family and friends!

Turkeys are intelligent, gentle, sweet creatures who want to live just like you do.

Perhaps next year you could plan a turkey free celebration?!

Organizing Tip of the Week: SpringPad!

2013-11-27T13:58:00.001-08:00

I've been organizing clients for 24 years and with the advent of productivity apps and computer programs I'm constantly asked which I like best. I've found many of the most successful to be a bit too detail oriented. If you bore me in the process you will surely not help my clients whose minds don't automatically gravitate to order. If you have to spend a lot of time cross referencing then your actual organizing time gets eaten away by organizing tasks. The very item meant to free you soon enslaves you.

Now a productivity tool has me under its spell. It has been described as the child Evernote and Pinterest would have if they got married. It's practical and visual. I'm just starting to learn the particulars and will share tips as the weeks go by. I hope you will join me in using it to make 2014 our most successful year yet. I'm delighted to share that I will be doing some fun projects with the SpringPad team. While I get my feet wet please feel free to surf on over to www.SpringPad.com and see how you like it. Whether at home, traveling with your iPad or on your smart phone you can access your notebooks, cross reference information and add or delete whatever you wish.

Last night I made private notebooks for the books I want to read, the movies I want to see and dedicated a notebook for all things Charlie, my 10 month old puppy. (You expect him to be organized, right?) Keep your notebooks private or share them with others. Follow your favorites. All of this practicality and fun while enjoying a visual presentation that's as stunning as you want to take the time to create. I ask you: as we stare down Black Friday and a New Year what more could we need to organize our resources and be sure we are on track?

Stocking Stuffer Monday

2013-11-26T16:58:00.002-08:00

With Black Friday approaching I want to share The Animal Rescue Site with you. Visit every day and click for free. The number of clicks will decide how much participating companies will donate that day. I have a client whose computer is set to remind him to click the minute he opens his computer at work. How's that for organized generosity? The site also has an on line store where part of the proceeds of each sale go to help homeless pets.

Stocking stuffer gifts are meant to be fun and you don't want to break the bank, right? To spark your creativity I've posted 3 of the hundreds of wild, wonderful, wacky and useful items you can find for just a few dollars. Let's start in the kitchen, shall we? I bet the chef on your list doesn't have a paw print muffin pan like this, does (s)he? What about your daughter who is mad for all things dog or cat? Gift her with this and you just might get some early morning muffins out of this deal!

I can't imagine any self respecting 'cat person' who wouldn't be delighted to start the day with a bit of joe or a spot of tea from this charming mug. Who fits that description on your life?

I happen to have these paw print paper clips in my office! I stick them on documents (OK not those going to corporate offices) and wait for friends to exclaim: "Hey, this paper clip is a dog bone?!" I just smile in delight. Is there someone who needs a touch of whimsy in his office life? Anyone who is overwhelmed with paper? These are useful and fun. And they take up so little room you can keep on stuffin' that stocking with goodies!

The Christmas stocking image is from Pinterest another great site to surf if you are in need of gift ideas.

Seasonal Tip of the Week

2013-11-26T16:52:00.002-08:00

My assistants ask me how I remain so calm in the face of chaos whether it's from a client who is terrified of the process or as we tackle a room that is filled with too much stuff. I learned a long time ago that if I join someone in the space of fear we won't make any progress. I have to silently invite them to my place of peace and calm. It works in organizing and it will serve you this week as you share time with family and friends.

A few too many glasses of wine and Aunt Edna may turn into a critical horror. Uncle Joe may pull focus all evening by sharing the intimate details of his last medical procedure(s). Your new puppy may get some turkey under the table from your dad and float his own brand of air freshener into the dining room. Life brings us upset. Confronting upset with upset is how wars are started.

Remember why you are all gathered together. Time and again return the focus to gratitude. More than how to organize the perfect dinner party is the glory of knowing how to keep relatives from rehashing old wounds or tumbling into bad behavior. Take a few deep breaths when you start these days. Meditate if you feel comfortable doing so. Be the holiday energy you want to experience.

Happy Thanksgiving!

2013-11-24T09:51:00.001-08:00

Sometimes what needs to be organized isn't some random stuff in the physical world but rather our emotional responses to people and situations. This Thanksgiving you may be with family, you may begin the day with a call from home or perhaps the family that drives you insane will be gathered in your head. Long dead relatives can leave behind stinging words and painful memories that we relive with great devotion.

The best way to disengage is not to withdraw but to forgive. If you don't provide the habitual response the fire of discord may die of neglect. Give it a shot this year. What have you got to lose but hurt feelings, anger, disappointment and tears? Trade this traditional drama for peace and contentment. My puppy Charlie and I wish you a day of love, laughter, great food and the best companions you could ever imagine.

Main Course for Holiday Organizing Day Madness

2013-11-23T08:39:00.001-08:00

This recipe comes from the Recipe Club at VegNews Magazine. I have a soft spot in my heart for this publication because over a decade ago when I was just starting my writing career they asked me to contribute a few articles to a column they had at the time. I learned it's much easier to write a book than a magazine article! This main dish is hearty, nutritious and of course as with all of my choices vegetarian i.e. cruelty free.

Wild Rice-Stuffed Squash with Chanterelles

Savory and complex, this meat-free main course will stun your holiday guests. A colorful stuffed winter squash makes the perfect centerpiece for your vegetarian Thanksgiving table. The combination of aromatic leeks and the nutty, truffle-like flavor of Chanterelle mushrooms creates a sophisticated and scrumptious stuffing that is then studded with cranberries, hazelnuts, and herbs. It can also easily be made gluten-free so that every friend and relative will be able to enjoy it. This is one recipe that you'll surely want to repeat year after year. For more incredible vegan holiday dishes, visit our 10 Sumptuous and Savory Thanksgiving Recipes on VegNews.com.

Serves 6

What You Need:
1 medium-large winter squash (6 to 8 pounds)
3-1/2 cups light vegetarian broth
1-1/2 cups wild rice
2 tablespoons olive oil
4 cups sliced cleaned chanterelles
1 cup chopped leeks or scallions
1 cup minced onion
4 celery stalks, sliced
1/2 cup dried cranberries
1/2 cup chopped, toasted hazelnuts
1/2 teaspoon dried thyme
1/2 teaspoon dried marjoram
1/2 teaspoon salt, plus more to taste
Freshly ground black pepper to taste
1/3 cup nutritional yeast flakes
1/4 cup chickpea flour
2 tablespoons oat flour
2 tablespoons soy sauce
2-1/2 cups water

What You Do:

1. Preheat oven to 400 degrees. Cut a “lid” off top of squash and scoop out seeds, scraping the interior well. In a baking pan, place squash with its lid on loosely, and bake for 1 hour, then check for tenderness. If squash isn’t done, cook a bit longer until softened.

2. In a medium pot over high heat, bring broth to a boil. Wash wild rice in a colander under running water. When broth boils, add washed wild rice, return to a boil, then cover and turn down to a simmer. Simmer for about 55 minutes, or until tender.

3. While wild rice cooks, in a large skillet over medium-high heat, heat olive oil. Sauté mushrooms, leeks, celery, and onions until tender and slightly browned. Add cooked wild rice, cranberries, nuts, herbs, and salt and pepper to taste. Pack stuffing into cooked squash and place in a shallow baking pan. Bake, loosely covered, for 45 to 60 minutes.

4. In a heavy saucepan over high heat, whisk nutritional yeast and flours together until they smell toasty. Remove from heat briefly and whisk in water, soy sauce, and 1/2 teaspoon salt. Return to high heat and stir constantly until gravy thickens and comes to a boil. Reduce heat and simmer for 2 to 5 minutes. Serve over hot stuffed squash

Chef's Tip: We recommended choosing a Boston marrow squash, turban squash, Hubbard squash, banana squash, or the pale blue-grey New Zealand squash for the best presentation and flavor. If you can’t find chanterelles, use fresh shiitakes, lobster mushrooms, oyster mushrooms, or crimini mushrooms.

Pets and Holidays ...

2013-11-22T09:25:00.002-08:00

...are not a great match. Imagine how you'd feel if Fido invited 30 stray dogs to your home for a play date. You'd be a wee bit overwhelmed, wouldn't you? Well, some dogs feel incredibly stressed when your family comes over for the big holiday celebrations. I like to put Rescue Remedy in the water bowl for up to a week before the big day. You can find it on line, at a Whole Foods Market or in any store that specializes in natural products. It's for humans under stress but safe for animals. Perhaps you'll need a few drops before everyone arrives?

Some people confine their furry companions to a quiet room in the back of the house until it's a wee bit calmer. I would lower the lights and put on some soothing music. My pets get Reiki Healing Music (available at Amazon) but you can also play something like Mozart. This isn't the time for rap, heavy metal or 'I don't get no satisfaction.' And PLEASE don't put your pup out in the cold 'until he settles down.' First of all dogs don't belong outside but secondly they are pack animals. They want to be with you and being miserable in the cold while they listen to your holiday merriment is going to rev them higher. "Why won't that dog stop barking?!" Answer: "Because the stupid human has him outside away from the pack!"

I found the above infographic on line and thought I'd share it. It will arm you with helpful advice for your pet and be especially helpful in case you rescue a stray this season. I drive a car and in my trunk I always have a water bowl, a bottle of fresh water, food, dog treats and a spare leash. My back seat is covered because I have a dog and I want him to hop in whenever he's going to accompany me without too much fuss. You might want to have a spare blanket in the car.

May everyone in your home have a sane, safe, quiet, nurturing holiday experience this year!

Organizing Tool of the Week

2013-11-22T09:23:00.001-08:00

It isn't often that I find a new product that really turns me on but this Jet Beg does in spades. I wouldn't personally fly with a bottle of wine but if you have some rare vintage to bring to a holiday celebration out of town this is going to save you. On the other hand if you are someone who has a large bottle of liquid to bring with you (I'm thinking medicine but The Container Store suggests oils and perfumes) here again is a solution to save your packed clothing not to mention the interior of your suitcase.

Here's what The Container Store has to say about this handy product:

Jet Bag™ Bottle Protector

Straighten up and fly right with our Jet Bag™ Bottle Protector. Since a bottle of wine, olive oil or perfume often exceeds carry-on security regulations, slip it inside this biodegradable protective case and put it in your checked luggage without a care. A reusable zip-seal closure and ultra-absorbent lining ensure that if there is a leak, it won't spread throughout your suitcase. It's also great for traveling by train, boat and car or for going to a tailgate or picnic.

Lining made from polymers and wood pulp that can absorb up to 750 ml
Exterior made from durable polyethylene
Made in the USA

Progress Not Perfection

2013-11-20T07:46:00.000-08:00

I had no idea I'd find this exact phrase on Pinterest. It came to me recently while working with a dog trainer. My new puppy Charlie is putting me through my paces. He knows just how to press every button and make my issues stare me in the face waiting to see if I will put on my 'big girl pants' and deal with them or run away. We can run but we certainly can't hide. Your issues stay with you until you work your way through them and release their hold over you.

I've watched every episode of The Dog Whisperer. I've read Cesar Millan's book and follow him on Social Media. I grew up with a dog and had two Golden Retrievers as an adult. How could a 17 pound puppy so resist my attempts to be the Pack Leader? It was comforting to learn from the trainer that assuming the role of Pack Leader can take up to a year to learn. I felt the same frustration and disappointment my clients feel when confronted with out of control chaos in their home and work environments. I tell them it's one day, one step, one breath at a time. Why couldn't I be that kind to myself? And that's when 'progress not perfection' came to me.

If you have issues about the level of organization in your home or how well you 'do' the holidays or if you are driven up the wall by your relatives, guess what? When you change the game plan inside your own being the world will shift to accommodate what you just created inside yourself. But don't expect miracles. If the rooms you share with others this holiday season look great but you know the master bedroom is a disaster congratulate yourself on your progress. Last year the entire house looked like a bomb went off, right? If Uncle Harry doesn't drive you up the wall until dessert time, be thankful for the hour of peace you allowed. No matter what challenge we face in life it's always about progress and not perfection. The latter is a fantasy; the former moves us to new ways of being, higher self esteem and more freedom.

What challenge will you face this holiday season? I'd love to hear about your progress. In the meantime Charlie and I will be practicing rules and manners. He turns 10 months on November 19, 2013.

Seasonal Tip Day: For Travelers

2013-11-19T08:03:00.000-08:00

Are you traveling this holiday season? Whether you use a travel agent or troll the web for deals best to get going and buy those tickets now! Here are some ideas to get you started. You'll find additional tips in the resource guide in the back of One Year to an Organized Life.

Be sure you use points to get free travel (you'd be surprised how many people forget their credit card has been earning points that can be cashed in).

Driving to grandma's house this year? Don't put off a tune-up to the last minute. You may need a surprise repair and you don't want to travel in a compromised fashion. It has happened to me so I speak from experience.

Children need to be secured because it's the law, right? Well, Fido belongs in a crate or with his own safety harness. A dog who is free roaming or worse on your lap is in danger. Be safe not sorry. The above image is from one of my favorite catalogues In the Company of Dogs.

Be sure your phone is charged and that you have extra food and water in your vehicle in case of an emergency. I got caught in a traffic jam once on Thanksgiving and my one hour drive took an astonishing five! Check traffic reports on line or in the car so you are free to alter your route. I use an app called Beat the Traffic.

Check out the Red Cross website and you'll find wonderful items to have in the car like an emergency radio you crank or a camping blanket for a few bucks. By the way an emergency road kit would be a great gift for someone on your list!

And words to live by: Don't pack everything but the kitchen sink!

Stocking Stuffer Monday

2013-11-18T10:05:00.002-08:00

In less than two weeks we will celebrate my favorite holiday ~ Thanksgiving. What's not to like about a day devoted to eating, socializing and no gift giving. But wait! This year Thanksgiving is also the first night of Hanukah so some people will be exchanging gifts. If you are going to a celebration that honors both of these wonderful holidays you can't do better than to surf on over to www.Zabars.com and check out their gift ideas including wonderful (and traditional) gift baskets. I don't work for Zabar's but I grew up in New York City and when you wanted great deli food or specialized gifts you knew they were the source.

Organizing Product Idea Day

2013-11-12T09:10:00.000-08:00

Let's pretend for a minute you need a car. You could of course go out and get a top of the line Rolls Royce but after doing due diligence you realize that a Ford will serve you just as well and save you a small fortune. But then I come along and we discover that you will only need this vehicle on rare weekends and I encourage you to buy a utilitarian used vehicle. You save on the purchase price, maintenance, repairs etc. There is no right or wrong, is there? It all depends on your needs and of course your budget.

The same applies to shelving units.

The top photo shows the Rolls of shelving units. It's attractive, sturdy and I believe can come with wheels. The middle photo shows a less attractive but very sturdy unit that would do well in a garage. The first one could serve you in a garage or in your home. I like the versatility of that choice.

The last one is less than $40 and would be super if all you wanted was to store holiday decoration boxes out in the garage or park items from a big box store out there so your home wasn't clogged with too many paper products and sodas.

You get the idea.

Shelving units will transform any space and enable you not only to store more but to access it easily. Be sure you know where you need the unit(s), what you intend to store on it and check your budget. The top one is from The Container Store and is of course my favorite. The next two are from the Home Depot and I've recommended them frequently. By the way if anything has to be assembled be sure you have someone who can do it easily. I've seen my clients take two hours to assemble a shelving unit before they figured out how it went and could move more quickly. Sometimes paying for a person who can deliver and assemble is worth everything!

Stocking Stuffer Monday

2013-11-12T09:08:00.001-08:00

I can't imagine a better gift for a child than one that feeds his or her thirst for knowledge. National Geographic for kids is only $15 for a year (10 issues) and is for children as young as 6. Here are some reasons to offer it to the children in your life especially nieces, nephews, and the children of dear friends:

		It’s mind-boggling! NG Kids is packed with you-are-there storytelling and beautiful photos of wild animals, exotic places, and interesting phenomena from around the world.

		It’s compelling! NG Kids engages kids with colorful graphics and fascinating bits of information about nature, technology, the environment, and world cultures.

		It’s entertaining! Each issue includes cool features that make learning fun, like Weird But True, Bet You Didn't Know, Amazing Animals, and more!

		It’s exciting! Select issues come with bonuses to delight and surprise kids, like collectible animal cards and pull-out posters.

		It’s fun! Clever games and riddles make kids curious and excited to learn about the world. Guess what? There's also a magazine for the little ones ages 3 to 6! It too costs $15 and there are 6 issues. Surf on over to www.NationalGeographic.com and click on the kids link at the top. And while you're there you might want to order a subscription for the regular magazine for an adult in your life! There are many wonderful magazines out there that cater to various interests. If you know a teenager who is a budding fashionista get her a subscription to something like Vogue. Great treasures fit into Christmas stockings!

Organizing Day Food

2013-11-09T08:53:00.001-08:00

Here's a hearty yet easy to make dish I found to share with you. It's from the folks at Forks Over Knives. You'll find all sorts of great information at their site and if you haven't seen their documentary I think you'll be pleased and surprised by what you'll learn.

I can't say it often enough: eat well and drink lots of water as a general rule of life but especially on days when big organizing projects loom. You need to keep your strength up!

Beans with Greens, Garlic and Tomato

By Jill Nussinow | Posted on October 9, 2013

You get the colors of the Italian flag, along with fresh flavors in this dish.

White Beans with Greens, Garlic and Tomato
Serves 4

Ingredients:

1 cup white beans, soaked (see below)*
1 medium onion, diced
6 cloves garlic, minced, half reserved
½ to 2/3 cup low-sodium vegetable broth
1 bunch greens such as kale or collards, chopped, to equal 4-6 cups
3 cups diced heirloom tomatoes or 1 large can unsalted diced tomatoes, drained
Pinch of red pepper flakes, or diced hot pepper, if desired
½ teaspoon salt (optional)
Black pepper, to taste

Instructions:

*If fresh shelling beans are available, use them. If not, soak your beans overnight or do a quick soak and then cook them quickly in the pressure cooker. No, pressure cooker? It takes much longer on the stovetop but can be done.

Pressure Cooker:
Drain the beans and set aside. Heat the pressure cooker over medium heat. Add the onion and sauté for 2 to 3 minutes. Add the garlic and sauté another minute. Add the beans and broth and lock the lid on the cooker. Bring to high pressure over high heat and then reduce the heat. Cook for 5 minutes. Remove from the heat and let the pressure come down naturally. Carefully open the lid, tilting it away from you. Add the greens and stir. Lay the tomatoes on top of the green and beans mixture. Add the pepper flakes or hot pepper now, if using, along with the remaining garlic. Bring to high pressure again for 2 minutes. Remove from the heat and let the pressure come down naturally. Carefully open the lid and add salt and pepper, to taste. Serve hot over quinoa, other whole grain or pasta or as a side dish.

Stovetop:
Dry sauté the onions and half the garlic and then add the beans and broth to cover (it will be closer to 1 cup or more). Cook, simmering, until the beans are done, adding liquid as necessary to keep beans covered. Drain off most of the broth, leaving about ¼ cup in the pot. Then add the greens, tomatoes, pepper flakes, if using and the remaining garlic. Simmer for up to 10 minutes until the greens are cooked and the tomatoes start to break down. Season to taste. Serve hot over quinoa, other whole grain or pasta or as a side dish.

Let's Go to the Dogs Day

2013-11-08T02:13:00.001-08:00

Do you have a dog that pulls? Do you marvel at his ability to practically choke himself to death in an effort to be out in front on a walk playing Leader of the Pack? The above leash and collar in one is used by professionals in the dog show world and by Cesar Millan. It will give you more control without threatening your dog's delicate throat area. The collar rides high so when you give a correction it's hitting a spot that can't cause damage. How I wish I had known about this when I had my female Golden Retriever. She was 70 pounds of pulling muscle for the first five years of her life. It's always the human of course and I needed Pack Leader training but never underestimate the power of the right tool.

If you don't have a dog but watch a relative, friend or neighbor fly down the street behind their pup be sure and stuff one of these into their stocking this holiday. I'm not endorsing any brand. You can shop on line or go to your local pet store. Just ask for the 'leash and collar in one' and you'll be introduced to the right one for your pup. Charlie, my 17 pound Havanese mix says "Woof! Woof!" He and his trainer like the one we're using!

Organizing Day Advice

2013-11-07T08:57:00.000-08:00

This piece of advice is one I'm going to repeat throughout the season. Holiday shopping is not safe if it's driven by your heart or your emotions. It needs to be organized by your brain and governed by a budget. I know that doesn't sound like fun but the moment your gifts are opened and appreciated is yours to savor. The moment I want you to avoid is the one in January when bloated credit card bills arrive and you're now in debt.

Learn Vest is one of several reputable financial sites devoted to keeping you on track financially not just during the holidays but throughout the year. You can find guidance in my book with financial planner Russell Wild One Year to an Organized Financial Life. It's a great gift by the way for the friend or relative who overspends at this time of year.

Here are some tips to get you started.

Sit down with pen and paper and figure out exactly how much money you have to spend.

Remember to factor in all the expenses that must be dealt with this season in addition to gifts. You may be traveling and entertaining for example neither of which are cheap.

Think outside the box when it comes to gifts. LISTEN when your friends and family members speak and they'll unconsciously feed you a lot of hints.

Ask someone for help whether that's an assistant or professional organizer or a teenager who is responsible and wants to earn money. Let them shop and/or wrap for you.
If you are not interested in spending money opt out of exchanges. Bank the money or pay off a credit card or medical bill.

Take a deep breath. It's supposed to be fun