Let's Get Together!!

I honestly try not to keep checking the number of page views that this little blog of mine receives, but I have to tell you how excited I was to see that Domestic Bliss Diaries has had almost 8500 page views since its beginning two and a half months ago.  One thousand of those page views were in the past two days!!  It's craziness... but a good kind of "crazy"... you know what I mean?

It is truly my heart's desire to be able to do what I love {organize, decorate, and write} and make money doing it.  I mean, isn't that the new American dream.  Sure, people still have goals of owning a home but it seems more and more, people are looking to work for themselves, from home.  Of course, each person has their own unique reasons for this goal, but I desire it for the flexibility it provides my family.  I can be home but I can also bring in an income.  Truly a win-win for everyone!

So, you can see why those stats excite me.  I realize that some of you probably have more page views than that, but I am so thankful for the growth that this blog has made in such a short amount of time.  I mean, when you start a blog thinking that only a handful of people are going to read it, but realize that the real number is in the hundreds, it's amazing...and overwhelming...and awesome...and...well, you get what I mean...

I just publicly wanted to thank each and every one of you who take the time out of your busy day to stop by and read.  I love all of the wonderful comments you send my way and, those of you who don't comment, I am so grateful for your silent support.  You all make my day, every day.

Because of this increase in readers, I wanted to quickly remind you all of the many {some of them new} ways to connect with me:

Of course, there's good ol' Facebook.
Trust me, you'll want to join because I have great plans for our little page... think: Facebook-only giveaways.  Plus, I'll let you know when new DBD posts go live, as well as share articles/blog posts that I find inspirational or informative.



I'm gonna be honest: I'm just getting the hang of Twitter.  We're not exactly BFF's yet, but we are getting to know each other pretty well.  If you message me {@BlissDiaries}, you'll be helping me get the hang of it.  ;)  {Not so subtle...hint, hint!}



I have been on Instagram for a while now, mostly pretending to be paparazzi for my Little Man.  But now, I am going to use it to give you all an "inside look" at my life.  So, if you're interested, you can follow me at @blissdiaries.



If you're an on-the-go gal who has a hard time keeping up with her favorite blogs, bloglovin' is likely to become your new best friend.  You simply download the app to your iPhone or Droid phone and every time you click on it, the most recent posts of your favorite blogs pop up.  You get to pick and choose which posts you read.  Plus, if you're like me and read so many blogs that you're likely to forget to "check in" with them from time to time, bloglovin' fixes that problem by keeping a list of all the blogs that you follow.  Easy peasy... right?

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Of course, if you're not already an official follower, please consider becoming one.  Make it super easy to keep in touch by signing up for posts via email.  Both options can be found on the sidebar. --->

In the FYI department:

I've got some great posts lined up for you guys next week including a post on designing for the sexes {a.k.a. how to defend your marriage against decorating disagreements}, a post explaining how I plan to keep the decorating-peace in my home, and then, we'll jump back into the "Intentional Heart, Intentional Home" series, only from a different angle... you'll just have to stay tuned to find out what I mean by that. ;)  And, of course, I'll see you all tomorrow with our weekly "Friday Favorites" post.

Speaking of Friday Favorites, if you've ever been curious what my favorite ___{fill-in-the-blank}___ is, even if it doesn't have anything to do with organizing or decorating, then just ask {domesticblissdiaries @ gmail.com}.  I know I'd love to ask some of my favorite bloggers about their favorites.  So this is your chance to ask me about mine {at least, I hope I'm one of your favorites}.  I'll be happy to change up the theme from week to week {favorite ways to organize paper clutter one week and then reveal my favorite beauty products the next week}.

I've said all of that to say this: let's get connected!

Blessings,



Linked To:
Friday's Homemaking Link Up at Consider the Lilies
Friday's Homemaking Link Up at Homemaker by Choice

Bind It Up

Hello.  My name is Alana and I have an addiction to binders.  Seriously.  I {heart} them.  Sometimes I will buy a new binder just because I like the pattern on the cover, even if I don't have a use for it just yet.  I know, I know... an organizer who buys things without a specific purpose. *Gasp!!*  Don't judge... everyone has their weakness.  Mine just happens to be three silver rings affixed inside two {cardboard?} covers.

Truth is, you can never have too many because you'll never run out of reasons to use them.  Here are just a few reason I've found to grab one... or two, or three, or...  Oh, never mind.

One of the most popular uses is "Home Management Binder".  Click HERE for a list of resources to help you create your own.  And, yes, I keep promising to show my revamped binder.  Truth is, I haven't quite gotten around to working on it just yet... Still trying to get in a groove with this whole blogging thing, since changing my focus.  If you can be patient with me just a tad longer, I promise {cross my heart} that I'll share it with you all the SECOND it's done.  Okay, maybe not the exact second... definitely within 24 hours.  Deal?

{Via}

Tired of looking through your library of cookbooks come meal planning time?  Don't remember where you put your mother's famous {fill-in-the-blank} recipe?  Got a stack of recipes torn/cut from magazines?  Put all of your favorite and "gotta-try" recipes in one place.

If you're a foodie or just an amazing cook who has accumulated enough recipes to feed a small nation, where every single person is eating something different, then consider categorizing your recipes and giving each group its own binder: main dishes, veggies, desserts... you get the idea.

{Via}

While we're on the subject of recipes, why not talk about another food-related use for a binder: meal planning!  Sitting down to figure out what your family will eat for the next seven days {or the next month, however you do it} is no easy task. However, when you've got a binder full of menu pages, pockets for coupons, and other relevant information {maybe a "dirty dozen" and "clean fifteen" printout}, the task doesn't seem as daunting.  Also, don't forget to include a pocket so you can store take-out menus for those nights you just don't want to cook.

{Via}

If you like to gather decorating inspiration from magazines and books, you are probably well aware of how quickly your tear-outs/copies can pile up.  Why not use a binder to create your own "magazine" consisting of nothing but pictures of spaces that you love!

{Via}

If you're like me, you come across a ton of amazing ideas before each holiday but forget all about them the following year.  Why not use a binder to store those ideas so that you can actually use them?  You can do this several ways:

* Use one binder to corral ALL holiday ideas together

* Dedicate a binder to each holiday

* Use a binder to store most holiday ideas but use a separate binder for your favorite holiday

* I recommend giving each holiday its own binder so that you can further organize with dividers {recipes, decor, crafts, etc}

Of course, if you find the vast majority of your ideas online, simply use Pinterest.

{Via}

The picture above literally made me swoon when I first saw it!  Jenna Sue traded in her bulky filing cabinet for organized bliss.  Click HERE to read how she did it.

Other uses for binders include:

* Cards - include a calendar with important dates {birthdays, anniversaries, etc.} and a pocket for each month; buy cards in advance and store in corresponding pocket.

* Budgeting - place a calendar or list with the due dates/amounts of bills; use a zippered pouch for any outstanding receipts {those that haven't cleared the bank yet - once they've cleared, shred them or, if needed, move to the appropriate file/binder}.

* Blog - if you blog as a hobby, you could just use a notebook to jot down ideas.  However, if your blog is more than a hobby {or you wantit to be}, a binder can help you organize ideas, giveaways, guest posts, affiliates, sponsors, etc.

* Dreams - if you saw "Last Holiday" featuring Queen Latifah, you may remember her "Book of Possibilities".  Basically it was a scrapbook filled with things she wanted to do, people she wanted to meet, and places she wanted to visit before she died.  Create your own dream book using a binder.

There are too many uses to name, so I'll move on...

No matter how you decide to use a binder, just remember to place it in a location that is the most convenient to its use.  For example, the recipe and meal planning binders should be stored on a kitchen shelf while the decor binder could be placed where you like to unwind {place in a basket or drawer next to your favorite reading chair}.

As I create binders of my own and/or update the ones I already use, I'll be sure to share a post about it and include step-by-step instructions, as well as my personal tips for making the most of them.

Do you love binders as much as I do?
How do you like to use yours?

Blessings,



Linked To:

Women Living Well Wednesdays at Women Living Well Ministries

Homemaking Link Up at Raising Homemakers

Works for Me Wednesdays at We Are THAT Family
Hearts 4 Home Thursdays at Our Simple Country Life
Proverbs 31 Thursdays at Raising Mighty Arrows
Delightfully Inspiring Thursdays at Delightful Order

Friday's Homemaking Link Up at Consider the Lilies

Friday's Homemaking Link Up at Homemaker by Choice
Better Mom Mondays at The Better Mom
Anti-procrastination Tuesdays at New Nostalgia
Titus 2sdays at Time Warp Wife
Simply Sensational Tuesdays at Organizing Home Life
Titus 2 Tuesdays at Cornerstone Confessions

Closet Organizing Help from a Fashion Blogger

For those of you who know me in "real life", you would probably be surprised to learn that I do, in fact, have an interest in fashion (clothes, shoes, accessories) and shopping.  For those of you who have never met me, let me explain why that tidbit of information would likely shock a few family members and friends.  Let's just say that my typical "uniform" is jeans, a t-shirt, flip flops or tennis shoes, wet hair just "tossed up", and as little makeup as I can get away with.  It's not that I don't care (at least that's not the case MOST days), there are just a few things working against me:

• I am struggling with my weight.  Therefore, I often feel like I HAVE to get back to my pre-baby weight before I will give myself "permission" to dress cute again.  I know that's not true, but it's how I feel.  Plus, most of my things just don't fit anymore {at least, not like they used to}.
• The budget is tight.  As my family likes to say, it's "so tight, it squeaks".  What I really need to do is set aside even just $5 a week and put it in a jar labeled "Clothing Fund".  More than anything, I need to know what works for my body and create a list of pieces that I need.  Then, just watch the sales racks...

Needless to say, my "wardrobe" {if you even wanna call it that} is a little more than lacking in the style and functionality department.  Problem is, as much as I love fashion and shopping, I'm no expert.  Good thing there are other people out there who know a thing or two about building a wardrobe that, not only makes you feel amazing, but is actually functional and is perfect for your lifestyle. Enter the blog Kendi Everyday:

{All pics, unless otherwise stated, were found at Kendi Everyday}

Isn't she just the cutest?!?  Based on all of the wonderful outfits she posts on her blog, you'd assume that she has a huge closet with an limitless amount of clothes, shoes, purses and jewelry.  But she doesn't.  What's her secret?  She is a big believer in what is known as "remixing" your outfits.

Four months after starting her blog she had run out of new outfits to post.  What made the problem worse was she had also run out of funds.  What's a fashion blogger to do?  Some would probably have given up, but not Kendi!  She started what's called a "30 for 30 Remix".  Basically she takes 30 items out of her closet and wears only those items for 30 days.  Not only is outfit remixing great for living "green" but it's also easy on the wallet because you literally shop your closet.

See?  Same skirt... different outfits...To learn more about doing your own 30 in 30 challenge and to purchase the "30 for 30 Remix Guide", click HERE.

I stumbled upon this blog some time ago, but it wasn't until coming across her "Create a Working Closet" Series on Pinterest that I click on over and reacquaint myself with her talent.  Her goal for this series was to show us how to create a working closet.  What is a working closet?  Here's how she explains it: Here's how the process works:

Step #1 - PURGE

Step #2 - ASSESS

Step #3 - ORGANIZE

Step #4 - SHOP

Step #5 - REMIX

I hope her series on creating a working closet has helped you just as much as it has helped me!  Now, I only need to save those pennies and I'll be in business!

Remember...

"...a closet that works for you so that you don't stand in front of your closet and feel lost.  A working closet is one in which you can remix what you own into infinite cute outfits. A closet that doesn't scream 'go shopping now!' at you every time you walk in. One that knows when a new piece is needed and when it's time to let an old one go." - Kendi

I have a goal to lose some of this baby toddler weight and when I do, my reward is a new wardrobe.  Now, I love going shopping and I don't have any problem finding something to purchase when I go, but I often end up bringing home a bunch of trendy items {because, let's face it, they're just more fun} and often neglect to buy the basics.  The problem with this habit is that it gives me the "I-have-nothing-to-wear syndrome".  This is why I was so excited when I came across this helpful checklist on:

{Via}

When it comes time to purchase that new wardrobe, I will be armed with a list of basics that, when purchased along with some trendy pieces, will combat my "I-Have-Nothing-To-Wear Syndrome" and ensure I look modestly put-together wherever my day {or night} may take me.

Does your closet work for you? 
What are some pieces you want to incorporate in your wardrobe this summer?

Looking for more outfit inspiration?  
Be sure to check out Kendi Everyday and my "Outfits" Pinterest board.

Have a wonderful Tuesday, friends!  See you tomorrow.

Blessings,



Linked To:
Anti-procrastination Tuesdays at New Nostalgia
Titus 2sdays at Time Warp Wife
Simply Sensational Tuesdays at Organizing HomeLife
Titus 2 Tuesdays at Cornerstone Confessions
Teach Me Tuesdays at Growing Home

Women Living Well Wednesdays at Women Living Well Ministries

Homemaking Link Up at Raising Homemakers

Works for Me Wednesdays at We Are THAT Family
Hearts 4 Home Thursdays at Our Simple Country Life
Proverbs 31 Thursdays at Raising Mighty Arrows
Delightfully Inspiring Thursdays at Delightful Order

Friday's Homemaking Link Up at Consider the Lilies

Friday's Homemaking Link Up at Homemaker by Choice

Window Shopping: Right on Target

{Via}

Target is my happy place.  It's where I go to get away when the testosterone levels in my home get WAY too high {i.e. hubby turns on an action movie or starts a "pooting war" with my son - ah, the joys of boys!}, or when I want to ignore the pile of dishes in the sink.  It's where I go to recharge my batteries {I usually go alone} and gain some inspiration.  This past Saturday, I paid my happy place a visit.

{This was taken a while back, on a visit I made with my son.  I wanted to take a pic of him standing in the circle, facing me and smiling.  But, he just wouldn't do it.  I took the pic anyways and now it's one of my favorites of him because he's just being real!}

Before I show you what caught my eye, I want to share with you this weird habit I have: I make my way through the store, going from department to glorious department, in the same order... every time:

Dollar section ---> Clothing ---> Shoes ---> Books/Magazines/Movies ---> Outdoor Decor --->

Home Decor/Organizing ---> Kitchen/Housewares ---> Cleaning ---> School/Office Supplies --->

Health/Beauty ---> Accessories

See? Same route.  Every.Single.Time.  What can I say?  I'm a creature of habit.

Anyway, enough about my weird habits... here's what I found while making my rounds:

I thought the multi-colored dot buckets and utensil caddies were so cute.  I don't remember how much they were, and I can't find prices online.  Sorry.  It looks like the middle bucket is $14.99, so I'm guessing the larger one is just a few bucks more.  {Note to self - write down prices next time!}  But couldn't you just see them livening up an outdoor party!  I'm thinking I need to go back and grab a caddy for my son's art supplies!

Next was this ampersand.  I really want one in my house somewhere.  Not sure why... just do.  If I happened to purchase one like this, I'm still debating on whether or not I'd leave it as is or paint it... nothing is safe from spray paint in my house!  And, for those of you who want to know the price,

I'm pretty sure it was $9.99 {but don't quote me on that}.

I was so excited to find this because I'm planning on redoing my son's bedroom this summer and this navy bedding would be perfect!  {Stay tuned for a House Dreaming post on his bedroom.}  These were only $29.99/ea for the twin size!  Which is good, cause I'm actually gonna need two.

Okay, I'm not even joking when I tell you that I literally gasped when I saw this amazing display.  This, my friends, is what organized people live for...  Organizing products beautifully organized!!  Any one of these items are sure to bring life to even the dreariest of office cubicles.

These little cuties stopped me in my tracks.  Soy candles packaged to look like ice cream cartons!  Absolutely adorable.  But, $12.99?  Am I the only one who thinks that's a little steep.  I mean, I'm not saying I would never buy one at that price... I'm just saying I'd wince a bit in the checkout line.

Now, this photo has a story...

I passed by the rug first and honestly, just kept going.  I've seen that rug a hundred times, both in store and on other blogs.  She and I {yes, the rug is a SHE!} are old friends, so I said a polite "hello" and kept going.  After all, I was looking for new stuff...

Then, I reached the shower curtain aisle and fell in love with that medallion print.  Here's a better idea of what it looks like {although the colors aren't true to the product}:

Okay, so back to my story:

I loved this shower curtain in the teal/green/brown but when I saw this one, I immediately thought of my friend, the rug.  So, I made my way BACK to the rug aisle, held the shower curtain up to the rug {see photo at the beginning of this story}, and for a moment, rethought my ENTIRE plan for my home.  You see, my hubby and I disagree on EVERYTHING when it comes to home decor {which is another post entirely...}.  Because he prefers warmer tones, I thought I could scrap everything I had planned up until this point and start over with the rug and shower curtain as my inspiration...

Long story short, this inner dilemma put me in a funk all day.  I returned home from my trip to pour myself over my computer and decorating books, looking for a compromise between his likes and my likes.  {Stick around, you'll soon learn that I am the most indecisive person you'll ever meet - which I probably should have mentioned in my Things I'm Afraid to Tell You post.}  Anyway, I think I've found the perfect solution to our decor disagreements... but you'll have to wait until later this week... mwahaha... {that's my not-so-evil laugh, in case you were wondering}.

Anyway, I hope you've enjoyed everything that jumped out at me.  I should tell you that this post was inspired by this window shopping, target style post from YHL.  So, I pretty much "ditto" everything they found.  This post is kind of my "p.s." to theirs...

So, what did I actually wind up buying?

One of those binders, of course!  Come on, I couldn't just let all of that organized goodness just sit on the shelf, now could I?  Plus, I'm a girl who can always find a use for a binder!

An HGTV magazine.  I've have GOT to remember to subscribe to this one.  It's a good one, I promise!  Anyone else think HGTV has done a pretty awesome job putting together a magazine?  I'm loving them!

And a blue hand broom and dustpan for my son.  Confused?  Let me explain...  My son likes to "help" me clean.  So, when I spotted this set in the dollar bins {so only cost me a buck!}, I just had to get it.  After all, this is one habit of his that I will definitely encourage.  When I gave it to him, he was so excited!  I kid you not, he wanted to clean right then and there.  Because of his positive reaction, I now have plans to make him a cleaning caddy of his own {really I'll just put some water in a spray bottle and put it in a cleaning caddy with a microfiber cloth}.

So, there you have it!  The latest inspiration from my happy place.

Found anything you like at Target lately?

Anyone else take the same route while visiting their favorite stores?

Blessings,

Linked To:

Miscellany Mondays at lowercase letters

Better Mom Mondays at The Better Mom

Women Living Well Wednesdays at Women Living Well Ministries

Homemaking Link Up at Raising Homemakers

Works for Me Wednesdays at We Are THAT Family

Home-Business Brainstorm: Organizing Program

I know I don't normally post on Saturdays, but I just had to swing by and run this idea by all of you...

For those of you who are new around here, let me catch you up on things:

I've mentioned a couple of times before that I really want to find a way to work from home; earning an income that will lighten the financial burden for my husband.  The priority for this extra income would be to pay off debt, build up a savings, and give more to our church, as well as other charities we believe in {including saving to adopt one day, Lord willing}.  The secondary purpose would be to provide our family with some "fun money" for things like family vacations, as well as provide a way for me to decorate and organize my home {thus, creating material for this blog} without going into more debt.

A little over a week ago, I shared a business idea I had: virtual organizing.  The reason I even mentioned the idea was because I knew I could count on you all for honest feedback.  And you didn't disappoint.  Overall, the opinion was that the concept was a good one, however it really was a sink-or-swim idea {which, most new business ventures are, are they not?}.  So...

Today, I wanted to share a little bit about another idea that's been brewing...

{Via}

Here's how it would work:

Those of you who want to get organized would become a "member" {haven't got a name yet}.

Becoming a member gets you a monthly mini e-zine packed with lots of organizing tips and ideas specific to that particular month.  Plus, the idea is that if you follow the challenges in each issue, you're entire home could be organized by the end of the year.

In addition to the monthly e-zine, you'd also receive weekly reminders to keep you on track.  Plus, you would be able to email me your organizing questions anytime, and I would help you find solutions.

The idea is that I could start this membership program and then later, add on more personalized services, like virtual organizing.

I talked to a friend of mine yesterday and pitched this idea to her.  She said that she thought it was a needed service and thought $10-$15/month was reasonable.  Which I thought was great, because I was thinking more along the lines of $8.99/ month.

So, my questions for you are:

#1 - What do you think about this idea overall?

#2 - What kind of benefits would you like to see in an organizing-based membership program?

#3 - How much do you think something like this would be worth?  {And, bonus question: would you rather pay per month or per year.}

Thank ya'll so much for being a listening ear!  You don't know how much it means to me that you "visit" me and take the time to leave such encouraging words.

I hope each of you have a wonderful Memorial Day weekend...

Blessings,

Linked To:

Anti-procrastination Tuesdays at New Nostalgia

Titus 2sdays at Time Warp Wife

Simply Sensational Tuesdays at Organizing HomeLife

Titus 2 Tuesdays at Cornerstone Confessions

Teach Me Tuesdays at Growing Home

Friday Favorites - 5.25.2012

Is it just me, or did Friday take forEVER to get here?  It's all good though, because our beloved Friday did manage to arrive.  Today is a particularly special day because it is the first day of my mother-in-love's summer vacation {she's a teacher}.  For this one-car family, my mother-in-love being out of school means more time outside of the house, which is such a welcome change for me.  Don't get me wrong, I don't mind being "forced" to remain at home, since it does encourage me to get more done, but it is nice to have a break from the routine every once in a while.  And, luckily, I get that break for a couple of months every summer and a couple of weeks every winter, as well as a day-or-so here and there throughout the year.

HAS SUMMER OFFICIALLY STARTED WHERE YOU ARE?

{In other word, school is out.  Not referring to the actual season.}

Okay, so before I get to chatting away about my favorite things from this past week, I've got to keep with tradition and share what's been going on around here, first:

MONDAY:

House Dreaming: Play/School Room - 

The one where I release my inner child.  For Little Man's sake, of course.

TUESDAY:

The Whole Kit and Caboodle... Well, Sort Of -

The one where I share one of my favorite organizing tips!

TUESDAY FOR WEDNESDAY:

Things I'm Afraid to Tell You -

The one where I bear my soul.  Okay, it's not THAT serious.  But, I do open up about my imperfections.

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Now, let's get down to the fun part of this post: the part where I get to share what has peaked my interest/inspired me most this week...

Kelly, from The Complete Guide to Imperfect Homemaking, is in the middle of a great series all about blogging. So far, Part One is all about things to consider before getting started.  Part Two is all about practical ways to grow your readership {which I found to be especially helpful}.  Part Three covers blog etiquette and Part Four is all about how to turn blogging into a money-making venture {at least, how to earn enough to fund your starbucks {or, in my case, Target} addiction.  Part Five talks about dealing with those, inevitable, negative comments.  So, you can always start with Part One and read through them all.  Or, just click on the part that you're interested in now, catching up with the others later.

Since the school year is nearing an end and summertime pretty much means some form of travel, I wanted to share something that Kristen, from We are THAT Family, posted on her blog the other day: a mega tip list for traveling with kids.  One tip that I thought was great was to pack a "Rest Stop Box" complete with jump rope, frisbee, inflatable beach ball, anything that'll get the kids out of the car and active for a few minutes before having to resume sitting down for hours.

Speaking of traveling with small kids, take a tip from Kim, of All Things Simple, and make it easy on yourself by packing an entire outfit, down to the accessories {undies, hair bows, etc}, in one bag.  Then, once it's time for your little one to get dressed, he/she can pick out their own outfit, thus cutting down on temper tantrums wardrobe disputes!

Summertime is known for its carefree vibe, popsicles, and watermelon-seed-spitting contests.  Running through the sprinklers and blowing bubbles.  Ah... summertime.  BUT, if you have school-age children, you're probably looking for ways to keep them busy help them retain what they've learned.  Luckily, Rebecca, from Simple as That blog, came up with a way to continue the thirst for knowledge by creating this cute summer reading log for her daughter {complete with a bag topper for gummy worms, as a special treat} and has offered it to YOU as a free printable!  As a courtesy, she is asking that you follow her blog via Google Friend Connect in return.  Which, isn't really asking too much since her entire blog is pretty stinkin' awesome!

One last thing and I'll let you go so you can begin your weekend...

Friends, I'd like you to meet Jesse:

She is the sweet spirit behind the blog, Good Girl Gone Glad, where she shares her love of interiors, girly things, and of course, her family, with her readers.  In my personal, humble opinion, her blog is a fantastic source of inspiration.  One day, she's sharing something that she's inspired by and the next, she's inspiring YOU with things like her summer fun list surprise, her movie stub scrapbox, and her easy {DIY} TV shelf.

The reason I'm introducing her to you is because less than a year ago, she took a leap of faith and opened up an Etsy shop.  I know, I know.  LOTS of people have Etsy shops.  But, here's the thing, I like to promote the shops and businesses of people that I know.  Not to say I won't ever accept sponsors or giveaways from a company unless I know the CEO, but there's something to be said about having a connection with the person behind the "add to cart" button.  And the person behind the Good Girl Gone Glad etsy shop is seriously one of the sweetest bloggers you'll ever meet chat with.  She's loyally followed me, almost from day one, through all of my blog-hopping-and-URL-changes.  Plus, she's a homeschooling mama to three precious kiddos and wife to one lucky dude!

So, if you're looking for some pretty art, consider ordering from her etsy shop:

{B is for Bike, 8 x 10, $16, To purchase, click HERE}

Wouldn't it look so cute in a little boy's bedroom or a playroom?

{You are the one whom my soul loves, 8 x 10, $16, To purchase, click HERE}

This would be perfect for a master bedroom or even as a part of a gallery wall.

{Adventure Watercolor Print, 8 x 10, $16, To purchase, click HERE}

This one has to be one of my favorites.  So feminine!  I'm thinking this would look perfect in a little girl's room or a woman "cave".

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Thanks for letting me share some of my favorite posts, pins, and products {how's that for alliteration} with you!  If you have enjoyed this post, please consider following along via Google Friend Connect {see sidebar} and or signing up to receive Domestic Bliss Diaries right in your inbox {again, sidebar - under "never miss a post"}.  You can also connect with me via:

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I hope you all have a wonderful, restful weekend.  

I look forward to seeing you right back here on Monday!

Blessings,

Linked To:
Friday Favorite Things at Finding Joy
Friday Homemaking Link Up at Homemaker by Choice

Titus 2sdays at Time Warp Wife

Simply Sensational Tuesdays at Organizing HomeLife

Titus 2 Tuesdays at Cornerstone Confessions

Teach Me Tuesdays at Growing Home

Things I'm Afraid to Tell You

{Via}

A group of bloggers recently got together and decided to start a movement.  What kind of movement, you ask?  Well, it's really quite beautiful.  They have decided to peel back the curtain, exposing a part of themselves that they may not be proud of.  Things that hiding behind a computer screen allows to remain secret.  But, no more!  They are revealing that their lives are not one big bed of roses.  That they struggle with peer pressure just as much now as they did when they were teenagers.  That their house doesn't always look pristine and camera-ready 24 hours a day.

Reading the blogs of those who are participating has been so good for my soul.  Especially after feeling like an outcast, which lead to a minor blogging-identity-crisis that was, thankfully, resolved quickly.  The only way I know to say "thank you" is to join in... share bits and pieces of myself that I don't want people to know.  At least, not at first.  Things that I would rather leave locked up in a closet.

*Deep Breath*

Here goes nothing...
{Seriously, my stomach turned a back-flip as I hit "publish"}

I'M AFRAID TO TELL YOU...

#1 - That I'm not THAT organized in real life.
*gasp*  I know.  Those who know me "in real life" are probably not so shocked by this.  I mean, don't get wrong, I LOVE to organize {color code, alphabetize, label}.  I really do.  BUT, I also struggle with some of the same things that keep YOU from getting organized, too.  For example, some past reasons have been: "I don't know where to begin"; "I can't do it perfectly, so I'm not even gonna attempt it"; and then there's the good ol' "I'm just too tired".  So, you see, even though it's something I love to do... It can sometimes be difficult to get my motor running, too.

#2 - That I suffer greatly from poor time management.
I mean, I can organize a pantry or declutter a playroom with the best of them, but make me create and stick to a schedule and I'll break out in hives!  I know a huge reason I'm this way is because I'm a huge procrastinator {see #3}, but I'm working on it!

#3 - I'm a HUGE procrastinator.
Okay, I know what you're probably thinking by now: "This girl has trouble starting on organizing projects AND she stinks at time management.  Now she's telling us that she's a procrastinator... Remind me, again, WHY she desires to write an organizing blog?"  I know.  I hear you!  And, I completely understand.  I guess the point of my blog is to help me overcome these flaws in hopes that I can help some of you overcome these same struggles.

#4 - I'm a bit of a perfectionist.  
No, not in a neat-freak sort of way, but in a "if it's not magazine-worthy in the end, I'm not even gonna try".  This gets me every time.  Doesn't matter whether I'm facing a disorganized linen closet in need of a little decluttering TLC or I'm standing in front of my stove, new recipe in hand, attempting to {pretend to} be a master chef.

#5 - I often compare my blog to other blogs.
Often.  Why can't I come up with creative projects like that? Why can't I have a camera that takes awesome pictures like those?  Why can't my home look that amazing?  Why can't I have as many readers/followers as them?  Why... Why... Why...  This is something I'm working on.  I mean, it's perfectly okay to be inspired by other bloggers, which is actually the beautiful things about the blogging world.  The ugly side is comparison and discontentment.  Again, working on it...

#6 - I am overweight.  
Got this way almost 4 years ago, when I was pregnant with Little Man, and all that extra "fluff" has decided to stick around.  Drives me crazy.  Thing is, I've NEVER been a very confident person.  Needless to say that with each day this extra weight sticks around, the more difficult it is to see myself as "beautiful".  Again, another area I'm working on though.  I'm trying to eat healthier and exercise more.  But, more than anything, I'm learning to see myself as a beautiful woman, created by an almighty God, Who loves me no matter what numbers are glaring back at me from my bathroom scale.

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I could share so much more, but I don't want to keep you too long.  I know you all lead busy lives and I want to respect that.  BUT, I do want to challenge you to do one {or both} of the following things:

#1 - Write your own "Things I'm Afraid to Tell You" posts.

#2 - In the comments, list one thing you're afraid to tell anyone.

One struggle in the blogging world, since it has turned into a legit money-making industry, is authenticity.  Bloggers being real.  Today, I want to make a commitment to you that I am going to do my very best to be real with you.  To not hide behind false perfection, making it seem like I have it all together.  To share my struggles along with my strengths.  To talk to you as if we're friends sitting across from each other at a coffee shop, instead of speaking to a faceless person.

May we all strive for more authenticity in blogging, regardless of whether we're doing it to earn some Starbucks money {or in my case, Target money} or we do it for the love of writing.

Blessings,



Linked To:
Works for Me Wednesdays at We are THAT Family
Friday Homemaking Link Up at Homemaker by Choice

The Whole Kit and Caboodle... Well, Sort Of...

One of my favorite organizing tips {besides my trusty home management binder} is to categorize belongings into kits.  If you think about it, you probably already do this.  Like when you take put your foundation, concealer, lip gloss, etc. into a bag or pouch, you are essentially creating a makeup "kit".  But, have you ever thought about taking that idea and translating it to help you to organize other areas of your home?

I think with summer right around the corner, now is the perfect time to put together a "picnic kit":

{Via}

Aby, from the blog Creative Organizing and owner of Simplify 101, came up with this "Picnic Mini Zone" filled with everything you need for a spontaneous summertime picnic {table cloth, napkins, wipes, salt and pepper shakers...click HERE for the full list}.  She also suggested creating a "Travel Mini Zone" by filling a tote with travel sized toiletries, laundry bag, and a laminated travel checklist.  That way an impromtu road trip is a little easier to pack for.  

Hey, spontaneous picnics and impromptu road trips... who says organizing leaves no room for unplanned fun?  And, speaking of impromptu fun, what about a last minute weekend trip to the beach?

{Via}

 Keeping all essentials packed and ready to go means you can hit the road as soon as your little heart desires.  Also, Jen from IHeart Organizing has created a handy little "Beach Essentials Checklist" to make sure you don't forget anything... like sunscreen... can't forget the sunscreen.

Of course, even during the summer, groceries still have to be purchased, so why not make it as easy as possible by creating an "errand kit":

{Via}

This idea also comes from Aby {of Creative Organizing} who calls it her "Errands Center Mini Zone".  She uses a plastic bin to corral things like a pre-printed grocery list, coupon organizer, and a clip board to use while shopping.  {For the full list, click HERE.}

Not only do groceries have to be purchased, meals still have to be made...  

{Via}

This whole "kit" concept works especially well in the pantry, too.  Separate ingredients according to meal versus food group.  No need to take the time to hunt down everything you need because it's all there.  You could even place the appropriate recipe card/page in the basket so you don't have to hunt that down either.  Plus, you can go ahead and pre-measure dry ingredients {like flour and spices}.  This way, all you have to do is take a basket off the shelf and get started.

Added to that list of things that still need to be done during summertime, is: paying bills!  Yes, some people just don't understand that summertime is supposed to be carefree... can't we just skip a couple months of payments?  But, until the mortgage and electric companies see things my way, we can make life a little easier on ourselves by following Toni's {from A Bowl Full of Lemons} lead and creating a "Budget Box":

{Via}

Keep all of your monthly budgets and bills in one place.  Plus, to make it more efficient, stash envelopes, a checkbook (or two), and stamps in a plastic file container.  {Click HERE for the full how-to.}  And since bill paying can be a real downer of a task, why not purchase a cute box and colorful folders to brighten your mood?

And, if your kids' usually attend school during the academic year, you may have to adjust to them being home all day.  Make it a little easier to adapt by putting together snack stations for the kiddos - one for the fridge and one for the pantry:

{Via}

Of course, this is also a great tip year round by making it easy for them to grab an after-school snack with little help from you.  What's great is, you choose what goes into each station, but the kiddos enjoy the freedom to pick the snack they want each day.  Plus, those who do not attend "regular" school, like young children and homeschoolers, will appreciate having a special place for their snacks.

Another trademark of summertime is wedding season... Add that to the roster of birthday parties, anniversary celebrations, and baby showers you've been invited to and you're likely to feel like a chicken running around with its head cut off.  Make it THAT much easier on yourself by creating two gift wrapping kits: one for the year round occasions and a separate one exclusively for Christmas:

{Via}

Don't forget to include wrapping paper, gift bags, tissue paper, ribbons/bows, scissors, tape, markers, and anything else you'll need to wrap things up pretty.  And, yes, I encourage you to buy/gather scissors, tape, and markers for EACH of your kits.  There's nothing worse than sitting down to wrap a present, only to realize your tape is at the other end of the house.

Other ways you can organize using kits/"mini zones"/stations:

•  Kid's Activity Kit - Long car rides can be oh-so-boring for active kids.  Sure you could break out the portable DVD player, but why not give them other options: crayons and coloring book, travel size games, books, journal, and small toys.  Place it all in a tote bag or backpack and keep it in the car to ward off the famous "are we there yet" question.
• Nail Kit {a.k.a. Pamper Yourself Kit} - Gather everything you need to do your nails or to create your very own spa night at home.  It's important to take some time to recharge your batteries.  Putting together a kit will make it that much easier to relax.
• Waiting Kit - Grocery lines, doctor's office lobbies, school pick-up lines.  We spend a lot of our lives simply waiting.  Why not use this time wisely?  Pack a tote with your favorite crossword or sudoku book, the current novel you're reading, or a journal to write down your thoughts.

When you organize by task versus item, everything you need to complete a specific job is kept in one central location, thus making it a little less intimidating to begin the project and makes for more productive use of your time.

So, I'm dying to know, how do YOU organize using "kits"?

Blessings,



THIS POST WAS FEATURED AT:





Linked To: Anti-procrastination Tuesdays at New Nostalgia
Titus 2sday at Time Warp Wife
Teach Me Tuesdays at Growing Home
Titus 2 Tuesdays at Cornerstone Confessions
Works for Me Wednesdays at We are THAT Family

Hearts 4 Home Thursdays at Our Simple Country Life

Proverbs 31 Thursdays at Raising Mighty Arrows
Friday Homemaking Link Up at Homemaker by Choice