Me...Simplified

7 Days to a Clean and Organized Kitchen

2011-11-17T15:48:00.000-05:00

There really is no right or wrong way to clean. Whatever works best for you is great. Be very careful that you do not get stuck in the details of these projects. Do what you can and then move on! Don't spend this week cleaning and organizing your spice cabinet. We'll spend some time down the road de-cluttering this room and you can focus on those areas at that time. Your main goal for this room is to end up with a clean, functional, and easily maintainable kitchen.

I must admit that for me the kitchen is the zone that requires the most work. If my kitchen looks clean I feel more relaxed and in control...and vice-versa. My family (myself included) can tend to use the kitchen as a dumping ground. Attempt to come up with clutter-busting solutions to fit your home. If you have an area that seems to accumulate clutter, try to come up with a system to get rid of it (or at least contain it).

Break this job into small tasks. Each day you should plan to spend between 15-30 minutes. I do best if I set the timer.

Below is a sample of my list: (Please keep in mind to break up your job into tasks however it suits you best)

Purge
Clean refrigerator (inside, outside, and above)
Clean Stove
Clean cabinets
Dust walls, ceilings, corners, ceiling fans
Thoroughly sweep and mop of the room including corners and under furniture
Take down curtains and wash according to directions
Clean area carpets
Clean windows & windowsills
Purge and clean knick knacks
Wash baseboards, radiators, doors, etc.
Decorate for fall

Now break the large list into daily checklists:

Day 1:
Grab a bag and purge! Set the timer for 15-30 minutes and purge what you can. If this is a project that requires more than the time permits, just write this down for a project to do when you have a chance. Don't let yourself get stuck!

Day 2:
Clean ceiling fan, walls, doors, ceilings, and baseboards. If you have time left, try to tackle a bit more purging.

Day 3:
Clean your fridge. This means inside, outside, and on the top. Also clean your oven. If your oven is not a self-cleaning type, you may want to do this at a later date.

Day 4:
Take down curtains and wash
Clean the windowsills and trim
Windex windows, mirrors, and all glass surfaces
Hang the window treatments back up

Day 5:
Completely clear off your countertops and wash them down thoroughly. Clean small appliances and decorative accessories and make an effort to be very selective which items get placed back. Appliances which are not used much should be tucked away. If you are like me and seem to accumulate clutter in one area of the countertop, place a basket there! Old habits are really hard to break! If you have a table in the kitchen, wipe that down as well.

Day 6:
Wipe down all the cabinets and try to wipe inside as many cabinets as possible.
Sweep and mop floors
Treat yourself! Decorate for fall; new tablecloth, placemats fall flowers, etc.

Day 7:
HAPPY THANKSGIVING

Before you start any of the above projects, make sure you start with a straightened room.

Some of the tasks may need more time than what you have this week. An example of this would be if you really need a thorough de-cluttering of plastic ware, spices, freezer, etc. For larger tasks, skip it for now (or do what you can without making a larger mess for yourself) and make a to-do list. At the end of our 8 weeks (or during, when you have the time) you can go back to the list to see what needs to still be addressed. I don't want you to get stuck and lose your momentum.

Happy Cleaning!!
Betsy
Reminder:
This is not a contest, and your goal is not to get your home the best it can be, rather you want it to look better than it did before you started! Applaud yourself for the little achievements on the way to completing this complete overhaul

EASY One Week Plan to Clean/Organize Your Living Room, Dining Room, and Family Room

2011-11-08T12:35:00.000-05:00

This week we are working in the living room, family room and dining room. If you have decided to define zones differently in your home, just adjust these challenges to best suit your needs.

Sit down with a piece of paper and write down everything that you would like to get done in these areas this week. Be realistic with how much time you have to work on this project. Break each job into small tasks achievable tasks. Below is a sample of my list:

Purge
Dust furniture
Dust walls, ceilings, corners, ceiling fans
Thorough vacuum of the room including corners and under furniture
Take down curtains and wash according to directions
Clean windows & windowsills
Purge and clean knick knacks
Wash baseboards, radiators, doors, etc.
Decorate for Fall

Now break the large list into daily checklists. I find it easiest for me to spend between 15-30 minutes each day on these challenges. In your own circumstances, you may have to break it up differently. Keep in mind, the true goal in this overhaul is to simply get things clean and organized before Thanksgiving. It doesn’t matter if you do it 15 minutes each day, or take one day a week and devote a couple hours to the project.

Here’s a sample:

Day #1:
Grab a bag and purge! Set the timer for 15-30 minutes and purge what you can. If this is a project that requires more than the time permits, just write this down for a project to do when you have a chance. Don't let yourself get stuck!

Day #2:
Clean ceiling fan, walls, doors, ceilings, baseboards, etc.

Day #3 :
Purge and clean knick knacks, frames, DVD’s, books, etc.

Day #4:
Take down curtains and wash
Clean the windowsills and trim
Windex windows, mirrors, and all glass surfaces
Hang the window treatments back up

Day #5:
Dust all the furniture thoroughly

Day #6 :
Clean under couch and chair cushions
Thoroughly vacuum the floors (don't forget the corners and under furniture)

Day #7:
Free Day (or catch up)

Some of the tasks may need more time than what you have this week. An example of this would be if you really need a thorough de-cluttering of your movies, cd's, or books. For larger tasks, skip it for now (or do what you can without making a larger mess for yourself) and make a to-do list. At the end of our 8 weeks (or during, when you have the time) you can go back to the list to see what needs to still be addressed. I don't want you to get stuck and lose your momentum.

Before you start a cleaning and purging session change into comfortable clothes. Next, turn off the ringer on your phone and allow your answering machine to get your messages. Pour yourself your favorite beverage (mine is hot tea), and grab a bucket of hot soapy water and a microfiber cloth, and a couple garbage bags. Turn on your favorite upbeat (cleaning) music and set your timer for 15 minutes (or whatever time you have allotted). You will be amazed what can be accomplished in a short amount of time!!
Happy Cleaning!!
Betsy

Family Menu Planning

2011-11-03T15:15:00.000-04:00

Think you don’t have any extra money to save up for that car or dream vacation? Did you know that the largest expenditure second only to mortgage in the average American household is food? According to Consumer Expenditures reports,
the average American household spends $8000.00 a year on groceries alone. If you could cut that cost by ¼ you could save $2000.00 a year! And then there is the nearly $3500.00 that the average family spends on dining out as some reports suggest. Those numbers may sound high when combined over a year, but it is really $154.00 week on groceries and $67.00 a week on dining out. Dining out includes any meal purchased outside the grocery store including but not limited to coffees, sodas, fast food, and snacks.

When I talk about menu planning, I do not mean a strict “meatloaf on Thursdays” approach to your family meals. Rather I want you to plan ahead each week what you are going to have the following week based upon 1. Food you already have and 2. Foods that are on sale.

Menu Planning Tips:

1. Plan out your groceries for the following week before you go to the grocery store for the week

2. Shop your freezer, fridge, and pantry first for ideas

3. Plan meals that share ingredients. Don’t forget to chop once, use twice. For instance, if you have a couple recipes that call for sliced carrots; slice them all at once and store the extra in the refrigerator until needed.

4. Plan your meals based upon your week activities. For example, if you work late on a certain night, make that night soup and sandwich night.

5. Buy meats that are on sale this week to create a meal a following week. Don’t plan to make a boneless skinless chicken breast meal only to go to the grocery store and find that it is $5.99 a pound. Rather, put that recipe on hold for another week when you have purchased your chicken on sale.

6. Use your freezer! Don’t store your meats in your refrigerator, unless you absolutely plan on eating the meat within the next two days, place it in a freezer safe baggy and clearly mark its contents.

7. Plan a leftover night once a week. I prefer to do this the night before I go for groceries

8. Prep your produce when you come home from the grocery store – wash and cut vegetables and wrap in a paper towel and place into a ziplock storage bag.

9. Coupons are great…but: If you cannot find the time (or desire) to clip coupons, don’t sweat it. I would much prefer you buy what you eat and eat what you buy. That said, there are many great online sites to teach you how to maximize your grocery budget with coupons.

10. Lastly, get the family involved in picking out the meals for the following week. Have your older children come up with a menu. Encourage them to shop in the cabinets and see what recipes could be made with certain foods.

Autumn Overhaul: Bathroom and Foyer

2011-11-01T08:57:00.000-04:00

We are working on our third zone this week. For me that is my bathrooms and foyer. If you have decided to define zones differently in your home, just adjust these challenges to best suit your needs.

Break this job into small tasks. Each day you should plan to spend between 15-30 minutes. I find I do best if I set the timer.

Below is a sample of my list: (Please keep in mind to break up your job into tasks however it suits you best)

Purge and clean storage areas (list each drawer, closet, cabinet etc., individually)
Dust furniture
Dust walls, ceilings, corners, ceiling fans
Thorough cleaning of the floors including corners and under furniture
Take down curtains and wash according to directions
Clean windows & windowsills
Purge and clean knick knacks
Wash baseboards, radiators, doors, etc.

Now break the large list into daily checklists however it best works for you. Here’s a sample of my list:

Day #1:
Purge and dust knick knacks, books, frames, etc.
Clean out cabinets from one bathroom

Day #2:
Clean walls, doors, ceilings, baseboards, etc.
Purge and clean cabinets from another bathroom

Day #3:
Clean out foyer closet (wipe down walls, sweep floors, purge and sort) - Do as much of this as you can. If this is a project that requires more than 1/2 hour, just write this down for a project to do when you have a chance. Don't let yourself get stuck!

Day #4:
Take down curtains and wash
Clean the windowsills and trim
Windex windows and mirrors
Hang the window treatments/shower curtains back up
Purge and clean remaining cabinets

Day #5:
Dust all the furniture thoroughly
Clean tubs and showers

Day #6 :
Wash floors
Thoroughly vacuum the floors (don't forget the corners)
Decorate for spring.. spring flowers, etc.

Day #7 :
Free Day (or catch up)

Before you start any of the above projects, make sure you start with a straightened room. Place clean laundry away and dirty laundry in the hamper.

Some of the tasks may need more time than what you have this week. An example of this would be if you really need a thorough de-cluttering of your closet. For larger tasks, skip it for now (or do what you can without making a larger mess for yourself) and make a to-do list. At the end of our 8 weeks (or during, when you have the time) you can go back to the list to see what needs to still be addressed. I don't want you to get stuck and lose your momentum.

Keep in mind that throughout the year we tackle many of these de-cluttering projects in a far more thorough manner, so only attempt to tackle what you can realistically do in 15-30 minutes/day. Your goal is to have a clean (and easily maintainable) home by the holiday season... NOT a perfect home.

Happy Cleaning!!
Betsy

Candy Clutter: The True Fright at Halloween!

2011-11-01T08:44:00.000-04:00

What should you do with all those candy filled bags coming into your home? Ban Halloween? Send notes with your children that all who give must give only nutritious snacks? Bury them in the backyard when no one is looking? Or my personal favorite… eat it yourself!!

This time of the year can just be simply wretched for the sugar aholics among us. I bet I am not the only one who buys candy “for decoration” and then ends up eating it. I can mow through a bag of candy corn in 24 hours without batting my eye! And then there are the Halloween parties, parades, and the mother-of-them-all… trick or treating. Years ago, we would get maybe a mini chocolate bar or a quarter per house, but not anymore! The majority of the houses my kids visit have mini bags of candy! Full size bars!!

So what is a parent to do? Should we allow our children to eat until their hearts are content and then just get them in for a good dental cleaning after a few weeks, or should we go the other way? Ban all candy from the house?

I am suggesting a bit of a compromise:

1. Don’t buy candy for your own house! There are many other healthier alternatives for you to give out if trick-or-treaters come to your home. Also, you won’t have double the candy if you buy for those who come to your house and then send your children out to get more! Pretzels, fruit snacks, granola bars, etc. are all good choices. You can use the leftovers for packing lunches! A word of caution regarding fruit snacks. My Dentist said these are an absolute nightmare on the teeth!

2. Have your children pick out their favorites and take the rest to work. What happens if you don’t do this is YOU will end up eating what is left!

3. Use the candy for holiday baking. Tandy cakes, candy bar cookies, M&M cookies, etc. are always great holiday favorites! I freeze the candy so I won’t be tempted to sneak some. If you don’t trust yourself, take them to a relative’s house. Do you think I am joking?? I know how yummy frozen chocolate can be!

4. Re-use the hard candy. Take the lollipops and other hard candy and stash them away until you have an occasion to stuff a piñata or need hard candy for some other occasion.

5. Allow your children to overindulge the first day and then be limited after that. What I have found works best for us (keep in mind… I am not implying this will necessarily work for everyone) is we pretty much (within reason) allow them to eat whatever they desire Halloween night. After that, they can have 1 piece of candy after school and another after dinner.

Hopefully some of the suggestions above will help you reclaim some of the control over the amount of candy in your home. If nothing else, it certainly reaffirmed to me that I don’t need to buy a bag of candy corn “for decoration.” Regardless, have a safe and fun-filled Halloween!

Betsy

Quick and Easy Steps to Clean & Organize Your Child's Room

2011-10-25T08:59:00.002-04:00

This week we are working in the children’s rooms. I know it may seem easier to do this job when the kids are at school, but children benefit from helping out! Break this job into small tasks. Each day, plan to spend between 15-30 minutes per bedroom. I find it very helpful to set a timer to stay on task.

If your schedule does not allow you to spend 15-30 minutes per bedroom, adjust the challenges accordingly. The true purpose of this overhaul is to break up large overwhelming jobs into smaller attainable tasks.

It may come as a shock to you that I actually don’t enjoy cleaning, but I know that certain jobs need to be done, and cleaning children’s bedrooms is one of them. Sit down and write yourself a list of everything that you need to do in order to clean your children’s bedrooms. Below is a sample of my list: (Please keep in mind to break up your job into tasks however it suits you best)

Purge toys- (toss broken, donate/sell unused, etc.)
Purge and clean storage areas (list each drawer, closet, cabinet etc., individually)
Dust furniture
Dust walls, ceilings, corners, ceiling fans
Thorough vacuum of the room including corners and under furniture
Take down curtains and wash according to directions
Clean windows & windowsills
Purge and clean knick knacks
Wash baseboards, radiators, doors, etc.
Wash all bedding and flip mattresses

Now break the large list into daily checklists (or whatever works best for you):

Day 1:
Purge and dust knick knacks, books, frames, etc.
Purge and clean 3 drawers

Day 2: Clean ceiling fan, walls, doors, ceilings, baseboards, etc.
Purge and clean 3 drawers

Day 3: Clean out closets (wipe down walls, sweep floors, purge and sort) - Do as much of this as you can. If this is a project that requires more than 1/2 hour, just write this down for a project to do when you have a chance. Don't let yourself get stuck! Be very realistic with the amount of time that you have. If you truly only have 15 minutes, do not empty out the entire closet in order to clean it! Give yourself a goal to simply purge 20 items.

Day 4: Take down curtains and wash
Clean the windowsills and trim
Windex windows and mirrors
Hang the window treatments back up
Purge and clean 3 drawers

Day 5: Dust all the furniture thoroughly
Purge and clean 3 drawers/cabinets

Day 6: Clean bed linens and flip mattress
Clean out underneath the bed
Purge and clean last of drawers
Thoroughly vacuum the floors (don't forget the corners)
Decorate for spring.. spring flowers, etc.

Day 7: Free Day (or catch up)

Before you start any of the above projects, make sure you start with a straightened room. Place clean laundry away and dirty laundry in the hamper. Make the bed and put away anything that does not belong in the room.

Some of the tasks may need more time than what you have this week. An example of this would be if you really need a thorough de-cluttering of the toys. For larger tasks, skip it for now (or do what you can without making a larger mess for yourself) and make a to-do list. At the end of our 8 weeks (or during, when you have the time) you can go back to the list to see what needs to still be addressed. I don't want you to get stuck and lose your momentum.

How to keep it clean:
Does it seem your child has a different vision of what a “clean room” looks like? Once the children’s bedrooms are cleaned, take a picture. Keep a picture of the cleaned room with a check-off list on how to get it that way (tailored to your child’s age and abilities):

make bed
put clean clothes away &dirty clothes in the hamper
clean off dresser, bookcase, desk, and nightstand of those things that don’t belong there
put toys away
check under bed and behind doors
straighten closet
etc.

This will serve as a reminder to your child what a clean room looks like and the steps needed to achieve it!

Happy Cleaning!!
Betsy

Autumn Overhaul 8 Week Challenge: Week #2 Master Bedroom

2011-10-18T12:15:00.000-04:00

We are working on our first zone this week. For me that is my Master Bathroom and Bedroom. If you have decided to define zones differently in your home, just adjust these challenges to best suit your needs.

Break this job into small tasks

Below is a sample of my list:

Purge and clean storage areas-Bedroom and Master Bath (list each drawer, closet, cabinet etc., individually)
Dust furniture
Dust walls, ceilings, corners, ceiling fans
Thorough vacuum of the room including corners and under furniture
Take down curtains and wash according to directions
Clean windows & windowsills
Purge and clean knick knacks
Wash baseboards, radiators, doors, etc.
Wash all bedding and flip mattress

Now break the large list into daily checklists:

Monday:
Purge and dust knick knacks, books, frames, etc.
Purge and clean 3 drawers/cabinet

Tuesday:
Clean ceiling fan, walls, doors, ceilings, baseboards, etc.
Purge and clean 3 drawers/cabinet

Wednesday:
Clean out closets (wipe down walls, sweep floors, purge and sort) - Do as much of this as you can. If this is a project that requires more than 1 hour, just write this down for a project to do when you have a chance. Don't let yourself get stuck!

Thursday:
Take down curtains and wash (I am actually going to use a dry cleaning bag and do this myself in the dryer). Don’t have time for this? Take the panels off the rod and take them outside and give a good shake!!
Clean the windowsills and trim
Clean windows and mirrors
Hang the window treatments back up
Purge and clean 3 drawers/cabinet :

Friday:
Dust all the furniture thoroughly
Clean the master bathroom tub, shower, and sink
Purge and clean 3 drawers/cabinets

Saturday:
Clean bed linens and flip mattress
Clean out underneath the bed
Purge and clean last of drawers/cabinets
Thoroughly vacuum the floors (don't forget the corners)

Before you start any of the above projects, make sure you start with a straightened room. Place clean laundry away and dirty laundry in the hamper. Make your bed and put away anything that does not belong in your room.

Some of the tasks may need more time than what you have this week. An example of this would be if you really need a thorough de-cluttering of your closet. For larger tasks, skip it for now (or do what you can without making a larger mess for yourself) and make a to-do list. At the end of our 8 weeks (or during, when you have the time) you can go back to the list to see what needs to still be addressed. I don't want you to get stuck and lose your momentum.

Time to treat yourself!! Purchase a bottle of lavender essential oil. In a small spray bottle add a touch of the lavender oil to water. Sprits throughout the room and enjoy the relaxing aroma! Next, unscrew the light bulbs from the lights in your bedroom. Dab some lavender oil on a cotton ball and rub gently on the bulb (not the screw-in metal part). Make sure it is dried completely and screw back into the light. Turn on the light and as the bulb heats up, the lavender scent will be released. It makes the most wonderful and natural air freshener!

Autumn Overhaul 8 Week Challenge

2011-10-13T12:50:00.001-04:00

Want to get your home clean and organized before the holidays this year? Follow the steps to purge and purify your home just in time with the 8 week challenge.

Step :1 Plan and purge…

For this week, I first want you to make a plan of action. Break up your home into 7 zones (whatever works best for you). This is an example of what I have done for my home (but please do whatever works best for you).

Zone #1- Master Bedroom/Master Bath
Zone #2- Kids Bedrooms, Laundry Room
Zone #3- Bathrooms, Foyer
Zone #4- Living Room, Family Room and Dining Room
Zone #5- Kitchen
Zone #6- Garage and basement
Zone #7- Deck, front porch

The above zones will be the timeline. Each week we will focus on a zone. The steps actually will be quite similar for each week, so please don't feel that you need to do the same zones as I am doing.

Now, you know that I could never do a project like this without making organization a main focal point!! In addition, to cleaning our homes we are going to do a massive purge! Designate one day a week to run to your local thrift store so your donations don’t pile up and make sure that you keep a good list and get a receipt!! Do your best to recycle your trash and keep your clutter out of the landfills.

Your goal for this week is to do a quick purge on all the rooms. Clutter is simply put-off decisions! Try to tackle as much clutter as you can this week! Set the timer, grab a bag, and go to town! Set the timer for 10 minutes for each room and start tossing. If needed, do this 10 minute routine a second time for whichever zone is still in need.

Jump start for next week: Spend a little extra time purging your master bedroom this week; it will make next week’s missions a little less challenging!

Betsy

Space of the Month: How to Organize Your Wallet

2011-04-07T11:20:00.000-04:00

Do you know how you can spend 15 minutes to protect your identity and safeguard your financial life? It’s time to grab those wallets and purge, organize, protect, and simplify!!
Do you find that the only time you truly purge your wallet is when you buy a new one? It’s time to gather up your wallet (or wallets, if you have more than one that have items inside) and dump out on a table. Wipe your wallet down lightly with a germicide cleaner and set aside.

Purge- The first step is to toss out the trash from your wallet; receipts that you don’t need, out of date appointment cards, etc.

Organize- Place back into the wallet the following items:

• Insurance medical/prescription ID cards

• Driver’s License

• Membership cards

• Supermarket bonus cards- Make sure you purge out the stores that you really do not shop at, just carry the card around. If you have more than 5 bonus cards, you may want to hole-punch a corner of each (make sure you stay clear of the magnetic strip) and place them on a carabiner key ring (can be found at sporting good stores) and keep them separate from your wallet.

• Roadside Assistance card

• Credit cards – Only the ones that you really need to carry

• ATM card

• Cash – Keep $20- $30.00 in your wallet, depending on how many cash transactions you do in a week.

• Coins- Only keep a couple dollars worth of change in your wallet in a variety of coins.

• Emergency contact card- If you don’t have a standard emergency contact card, simply grab one of your business cards and write your contact information on this. Keep it very simple: just make sure your name and phone is marked on here. In addition, place the phone number and name of person (or persons) to contact in the case of an emergency. In addition, place on here any other information that could be helpful (blood type, allergies, etc).

• Checkbook (if your wallet has an area for your checkbook)

Protect: Take all of the cards you have decided to keep in your wallet and lay them face forward on a copy machine (may have to do this more than once). Once you have made a copy of the front, turn over and make a copy of the backside. Keep this paper with your other important papers. In the event your wallet becomes stolen or missing, you will have all the information (account and telephone numbers) for each of your items in your wallet.

Simplify: Once a week purge out your wallet. If you do this weekly, it should not take more than 2-3 minutes.

Happy De-Cluttering!
Betsy

Home Office Overhaul - Week #1

2011-02-11T14:39:00.003-05:00

If I were asked which area my clients find the most daunting, I would definitely say the home office area is at the top of the list. Whether there is a designated room, or a corner in the kitchen, the area where paper clutter accumulates often causes stress. As we are in the midst of tax time, this problem area becomes more evident. Paper accumulates quite rapidly, it is easy to stash, and there can be great apprehension to toss.

Like everything else, you need to come up with a system. Try to toss immediately what you don’t need, and sort and file the important papers. Don’t allow the clutter to build up. This is step #1.

Prior to our home fire, I literally hoarded all types of papers. I kept all paid bills, used duplicate style checkbooks, receipts, magazines, years of pay stubs, and piles of insurance papers (medical, house, and car). I kept everything because I really did not have a clue what I needed to keep and for how long. In addition to not knowing what to keep, I also had an ineffective filing system. If I needed to find something, it was nearly impossible because it was buried in a pile of clutter. After the fire I realized 99% of what I had kept was really not necessary.

Before you can start, you need to purchase (if you don’t already have) a few items including 2 filing containers, hanging file folders (at least 20), small container or basket for unpaid bills, and a paper shredder. The first container needed is some kind of filing drawer, if you don’t have a filing cabinet. These filing containers are rather inexpensive at office supply stores. Second, you need an easily transportable small filing folio that you can quickly grab in case of an emergency. You should instruct your family members on the location of this smaller filing folio, as this will contain the most important of your papers. Suze Orman created an amazing Portfolio that I would definitely recommend. Not only is the portfolio a perfect filing folio for the most important papers, but it also includes much more: http://www.suzeorman.com/igsbase/igstemplate.cfm?SRC=MD002a&SRCN=catalogdetail&ProductID=21&StartRow=1&GnavID=10&SnavID=48&TnavID

Throughout the month of February we are going to work on creating a paper system that works for you. For this first week, I would like to challenge you to simply toss out the paper clutter that you KNOW you don’t need. In addition, purchase the items I mentioned above if you do not already have them in your home. Don’t forget to shred anything that has your personal information. While doing this quick sort I want you to collect all the unpaid bills. Open these immediately and toss out the junk filler and place the bill and return envelope into the bill basket/bin.

Next week we are going to create the files and I will tell you what papers you need to keep and for how long.

Happy Shredding!!

Betsy

How to Achieve Sweet Dreams in a Clutter-Free Master Bedroom - Week #4

2011-01-31T13:11:00.002-05:00

This month we have been focusing on de-cluttering your bedroom. If you have not completed the de-cluttering you may want to continue working on that before you begin the cleaning process. If, however, you are ready to get down and clean the dirt, yet you are so stretched for time… this is my answer for you. Each day set your timer for 10 minutes and see how much you can tackle. During the 10 minutes don’t answer the phone, don’t even go to the bathroom, you will be amazed at how much you can accomplish in a little amount of time! Some of these challenges may be done under 10 minutes and, depending on your own situation, some may need more time. If the timer rings and you are not done with your challenge, simply reset the timer for 10 minutes. One final warning: don’t obsess, do the best that you can do!

7 Steps to a Clean Master Bedroom 10 minutes a day
Recommended items:

Bucket
Dry mop
All purpose cleaner & window cleaner
Microfiber Cloth
Germicide Cleaner
Special extras: Fresh flowers and Lavender essential oil

Monday: Walls & Ceilings – We are working from the top down this week, so grab your dry mop (I use the Swiffer mop) and give the walls a good thorough wipe down. Don’t forget to clean off your ceiling fan! If you can live without your curtains being up, you may want to take them down today and wash them (according to the manufacturer directions) so you will have them ready for your next day’s challenge.

Tuesday: Windows & windowsills – Take down your curtains and either wash them or at least take them outside and give them a good shake. You can also use the upholstery attachment of your vacuum for heavier dry-clean only drapes. Don’t let the evil head of perfectionism creep in, do the best you can do in the time you have available. Don’t get stuck! Next, grab your window cleaner and wipe down your windows and wipe off the windowsills. Finally, hang your curtains back up.

Wednesday: Sanitize – Grab your bucket with hot water and germicide cleaner (something that will kill bacteria) and a microfiber cloth. Clean all the germ infected areas and items such as: switches, doorknobs, telephone, remote control, etc. Anything that you or your family have touched with your hands, give a good wipe!
Thursday: Furniture and knick knacks – Use your all-purpose cleaner (or whatever you use that is safe for wood and other surfaces) and wipe down all of your furniture and knick knacks. Once again, don’t get obsessed with one item, just do the best you can do and be as thorough as you have time for.

Friday: Bedding – Strip your bed and wash all your bedding. For your ten minute challenge I want you to take your vacuum onto your bed and give it a good vacuuming. Next, flip your mattress and vacuum the other side as well.

Saturday: Carpet & Flooring – If you have wall to wall carpet give your bedroom a thorough vacuuming, if it is hard wood or another surface, it is time to mop.

Sunday: Rest and enjoy – If you have made it this far you deserve a little treat! Place fresh flowers in your bedroom. For an aromatic treat, take out the light bulbs in your lamps and rub lavender oil, with a cotton ball, all over the bulb. Screw it back into the lamp and enjoy the fragrance each time the bulb heats.

Sweet Dreams!
Betsy

How to Achieve Sweet Dreams in a Clutter-Free Master Bedroom - Week #3

2011-01-25T10:42:00.000-05:00

As I mentioned a few weeks ago, I truly believe that the master bedroom sets the tone for the family. If you feel overwhelmed in your life, make it a priority to keep your bedroom as free from stress as possible. For the past few weeks we have been talking about clearing out the clutter in your master bedroom. This week we are going to focus on all that stuff that has somehow accumulated on top of the surfaces.

The best way to tackle this job is to box and banish the items. Grab a box, set your timer for 5 minutes, and clear off one surface area, dumping everything into that box. During this same five minutes take a microfiber dusting cloth and give the surface a thorough cleaning. Do not obsess over making it spotless as our main goal is to de-clutter. Now, set the timer for 5 more minutes and this time shop through your box and place back onto the surface area only the necessary items. Place the trash in the garbage can and leave the items in the box that need to go somewhere else. Before you attack another surface area you must put the remaining items that are left in the box away. Do not make the common mistake of “out of sight…out of mind” and just tucking this box away for another day.

If you do this every day this week, spending just 10 minutes a day, you will be amazed at what can be accomplished!!

BONUS: What are the 5 things that every Master Bedroom should have?:

Soft lighting: Replace any harsh lighting with the glow of soft bulbs. You will feel more relaxed almost immediately.

Wedding pictures or other happy pictures: Try to keep things in your bedroom that make you thankful for the day and hopeful for the future.

Candles: It is amazing what a little inexpensive candlelight can do to make a space calming and romantic!

Tablet and a pen- By placing these items next to your bed at night you have the ability to write down your “to-do” list that wakes you in the middle of the night and prevents you from going back to sleep.

A little bit of color- Try sprucing up your bedroom with a little inexpensive paint. Think warm and spicy! If you are unable to paint, have some pillows or curtains to add a little pizzazz to your space.

Have fun this week reclaiming your bedroom!

Betsy

How to Achieve Sweet Dreams in a Clutter-Free Master Bedroom - week 2

2011-01-18T10:09:00.001-05:00

When I go into a client’s home to completely overhaul and organize a closet, the average time is normally around 3-4 hours, and that is with at least two of us working, the client(s) and myself. It is quite understandable that a job like this can become very overwhelming and inevitably a major procrastination issue. How can you tackle this job in 10 minutes a day? You may not achieve perfection, and may need to spend additional time on this project one day this week where you have a little extra time, but 10 minutes a day can be quite surprisingly productive!

Set the timer for 10 minutes and attack as many drawers as you can, using the following system.

Grab 3 bags and label each one the following 3 categories:

- Sell
- Donate/Give Away
- Throw out

Attack one drawer or small section in your closet at a time and toss the items into the appropriate bag. Once you have cleared out the drawer, place the keep items neatly back.

What to Keep?

I have heard all different strategies on how to decide what to keep. My system is quite simple. If I would not buy the item TODAY it does not get kept. Try to not think about how much (or how little) you paid for the item. It’s time to take the emotions out of the things around you! Also, do not keep items that no longer fit you. I clearly remember hanging onto a dream size wardrobe. What I discovered is when I hit my dream size, the clothes were not as spectacular as I had envisioned. If you are trying to fit into a certain dream size, tear out a picture of an outfit from a catalog. When you reach your goal, try the outfit on before you buy it. This is especially true if you are a woman holding onto clothes that fit you before children…5 + years ago!

What to Sell?

Prior to trying to sell your item(s), it is best to research what is the current market price. If you choose to use an online auctions site (such as eBay) it is very easy to find out the current market price by looking at what final prices similar items have successfully sold. Next you need to decide if you want to sell it or donate it. One thing to keep in mind when selling your item(s) on online auction sites is that there are no guaranties your item will sell at the price you would like it to, or will sell at all, even if similar items have sold.

What to Donate/Give Away?

If you plan on donating your items to a non-profit charity make sure you keep a good record of what was donated and have the charitable organization sign your receipt. When you donate to a non-profit organization that is accepted by the federal government as such, you can claim each item for its fair market value. A good rule of thumb to use when trying to come up with a fair market value would be 25% of the retail price. For more information, check out the IRS publication for charitable giving. http://www.irs.gov/pub/irs-pdf/p526.pdf

Another suggestion is to give your items to someone, perhaps a friend or family member. My only request is that you contact this person first and ask if they would like your items. You do not want to make your good intentions become their clutter.

Throw Away:

Throw away overly used and damaged undergarments, shoes and clothing. If it is no longer of any use to you, or anyone else, it is garbage.

It’s time to evaluate what areas of your closet and drawers were the most cluttered. If it was your shoes, place a shoe shelf in the bottom of your closet, or an under the bed storage unit. Perhaps it was the shelf above the closet that was overwhelmed with stuff. Measure the area and place bins or baskets and designate each; purses, belts, etc. Before you run right out to your nearest “mart” store to get bins, baskets, etc. make sure that you don’t already have something in your home that would work just fine.

I promise you that it feels amazing to let go of those items that you don’t need, meanwhile gaining more appreciation for the things that are left. As I mentioned last week, if you find great sadness and an inability to attack the clutter yourself, contact someone for help. You owe it to your family, but more importantly yourself, to have a bedroom in which you can rest.

Sweet Dreams!
Betsy

How to Achieve Sweet Dreams in a Clutter-Free Master Bedroom - week 1

2011-01-10T12:47:00.002-05:00

Want to create a dream bedroom in 10 minutes a day? For the next few weeks we are going to focus on the master bedroom, or as I call it, the new heart of the home. Week 1 will focus on planning and purging in 5 quick and easy steps.

I have often heard that the heart of the home is the kitchen. Instead, I would like to suggest that the Master Bedroom is the true lifeblood of the home, which is why I found it imperative to start the “Around the House Overhaul” in the master bedroom. So often we focus our attention on the rooms in which everyone else sees, and put our own needs last. When your bedroom is clean and organized, you will sleep, love, and live more fulfilled. In turn you will be healthier and happier, which makes everything more manageable in life.

For the next few weeks I am going to give you the steps to create a haven for yourself. This week we are going to focus on planning and general purging. Following are the steps for your clutter busting challenges for this week:

Step 1: Sit down with your spouse and share the frustrations with your current bedroom. Try and listen to each other and not get defensive. Perhaps come up with a reward for your room for when the bedroom de-cluttering project is complete.

Step 2: Create a timetable of when you would like to complete your project. I have 4 additional clutter busting challenges for you throughout the following month, but you may adjust the time-table to your own needs.

Step 3: Locate the closest donation center and get the details on donation criteria and rules. In addition, get the information for the recycling center in your area.

Step 4: Grab a couple garbage bags and set your timer for 5 minutes a day and start purging the trash from your rooms. Trash is something that is no longer of use to you, or anyone else. Now, just because it is trash, there is no need to clutter up the landfills. Make sure to recycle all that you can! We will focus on donating clothing and other items during a future weekly challenge, so for this week simply attack the garbage.

Step 5: Set the timer for 5 minutes a day and put away items that have found themselves in your room, but don’t belong there. Put clothing back into drawers and place shoes away.

Attempt to do these simple 10 minute challenges each day this week. If at the end of the week you find yourself still overwhelmed with clutter, don’t fret. Throughout the following four challenges we will attack every nook and cranny in your master bedroom. If you find great sadness and an inability to attack the clutter yourself, contact someone for help. You owe it to your family, but more importantly yourself, to have a bedroom in which you can rest.

Sweet dreams!
Betsy

An Apology: Long Time...No Post

2010-08-31T11:09:00.000-04:00

It is with great shame that I begin typing this blog as I have not written here in a few months. After my Father-in-law passed away, every time I started writing I found myself unable to write about anything other than loss. Business stopped for about two weeks, and during that time I often tried to write something, but it never seemed worthy of anyone else's eyes. I was not ready to move forward, so I just levitated in a pained state while I nursed my family's fresh wounds.

Once the kids were done with school, I fully expected my normal summer months of leisure. All my previous years in business, the summer months always proved to be very quiet. This year, however, I found myself busier than ever before. My mother-in-law watched the kids on my workdays, and when I wasn't working out of the house, I did the best that I could at being the same mom that I was years before. Not only did I not have the time to wallow in my sadness, but I could literally feel my wounded heart being healed with the work of helping others through their circumstances. Although I was busy from dawn until dusk, it was an incredibly satisfying summer.

Now I find myself at the beginning of the school year. My sweet babies are growing up way too fast. Juliet is in the 7th grade and Dylan is now a First grader. As the kids get into their new routine, I find myself kicking back into my old routine. I promise (okay, "promise" is a pretty strong word)... to try (the word "try" will bail me out of the "promise" word) to be more diligent with the musings of my life that are tucked into this blog. As for now I can assure you that I am happy and hopeful. In the scheme of life, what more can I ask from myself?

Until I blog again, (I promise to try to make it sooner than later)
Betsy

Not all change feels good

2010-06-07T06:57:00.000-04:00

I did not expect the inevitable to happen so soon...

On May 22nd 2010 my beloved father-in-law passed away.
Passed away...
Passed away...
Dead?
How can this be?

He received the devastating diagnosis just this past fall. Stage 4 esophogeal cancer. I am a google info hog, but when I started reading the prognosis I stopped googling. The information was so bad, so lacking of true hope. Even the good stories contained such horrendous information.

I am not terrified of death. I have great faith in the promise of a wonderful afterlife. I am, however, saddened to the core about losing those around me.  Its a shame we can't get an occasional visit, phone call, or even a postcard from those who have passed before us.

Over the past month the inevitability of the situation became more and more apparant. I tried to ignore the signs my brain was trying to signal to my heart. Instead I told myself, "Please no... just shut up... I don't want to hear this!"  But then something happened, I started seeing what life would look like if we kept him around for our comfort, despite his deteriorating health. He was not getting better... each day he was suffering more and more. I changed my pleading prayers for healing to pleading prayers for peace.

"He just went to sleep," this is what I told my children when they asked if I was with him when he passed. It is a much glorified version of what happened in that hospital room his final hours, but it is what I am going to change as my reality. He fell asleep here painlessly, and woke up healed in heaven. I can accept that.

Now what? How do I make sense of this all? How do I take what happened and turn it good? Is it possible?

For now I will just try to turn his legacy into learning lessons for my children. I have been confronted with the frailty of life, but as a result it just seems all that more precious.  I apologize to my children that death seems to have cruely stripped away their beloved Pappy far too soon for their comfort. His absence will be an open sore on all the happy times ahead for them for quite some time.

Until we meet again...

"Slipping Through My Fingers"

2010-03-23T12:49:00.001-04:00

This morning was like many other mornings at my house. I woke up at the same time, wandered around the house, made my hot tea, and then went upstairs to wake up my 11 year old daughter Juliet. Through our sleepy eyes we did our morning exercises together. We laughed when we bumped arms into each other and giggled at our awkwardness. This girl is such a joy!

After breakfast, and after she and her 6 year old brother Dylan were ready for school, I loaded them up in the car and took them to the bus stop. After a tight hug and sloppy kiss, Dylan ran to the bus with the same burst of energy that drives him every day. He stomped all over the worms that were scattered out on the road due to the early morning spring rain. Juliet took a bit more time to walk to the bus. Her long curly golden blonde hair drifted over her face as she looked back and me and smiled.

I let out a long sigh of relief and gratitude that she looked back. It does not happen that often anymore. Her life does not revolve around mine anymore. Her absolute adoration for me has now been replaced with friends, boy crushes, and dreams for her future. Oh, I know that she still loves me, but it is not the same.

My love for Juliet has never changed. With each step she takes, I know she needs me less and less, but that does not mean that my love has wavered. In some ways I think I appreciate her even more. These days are quickly slipping through my fingers. I am trying to hold tight, but I cannot stop the hands of time no matter how hard I try. As each chapter ends a new one begins. This chapter is full of fun things: girl movies, make-up, and shopping. But I can’t help to flip back through the pages of the last chapter and feel a sense of longing and regret. Did I realize how special each day was? Did I hold her enough? Read to her enough? Did I stop housework to listen to her special little stories enough? Did I do enough to place her on the path to the person she is supposed to be?

I hope she and I can continue to grow a bond that time cannot take away. May my life weave through her, so that long after I’m gone – she and I will still be a special pair, and may she look back at these days with even a fraction of the fondness that I have for them. Yes, I see her slipping through my fingers. I feel her emotionally growing away from us, and looking forward to the person she is going to become. I have full faith that person will take good care of her. Until that time, I hope that I can continue to focus on the grains of her childhood remaining in my hands, rather than focusing on the ones slipping through my fingers and blowing gently away, forever gone, in the wind.

Betsy

Training Wheels

2010-03-19T09:01:00.000-04:00

The time has arrived that one of the last toddler items in our home will soon be cast away. My 6 year old son Dylan is ready to ride his bike without his training wheels. He has become quite the bike rider with his training wheels; whizzing up and down our driveway like an expert biker. It is going to be an adjustment when he realizes that those little noisemakers were really giving him extra balance. But, without taking off his training wheels, he will never learn to truly balance and trust himself.

This poses a question for you, what training wheels do you still have firmly attached in life? Are you using something as a security blanket? Is there something or someone that you are leaning a bit too hard on, so that you don't need to trust and balance within?

Many of my clients have found themselves immersed in clutter as a result of bad habits. They often do things, collect things, save things, shop for things, and even sometimes hoard things because it is what they have always done. Those things seem to prop them up, give them security as they ride through life.

What will happen if they kick off those training wheels? Much like my son, they will probably fall flat on their face a couple times. But the real strength comes as they hop back on the bike. Soon, they will begin to trust in themselves and not the annoying noise-makers that used to slow them down and hold them back.

My dear friends, I ask you to give a thought to what is holding you back today. Let me assure you, that you don't need the clutter in your life that seems to give you the comfort. You will be stronger without it. The more you let go, the more you will learn that you are so much more capable than you have given yourself credit.

Take off those training wheels and ride like you have never rode before...

Betsy

Wonderful Signs of Spring

2010-03-09T12:41:00.005-05:00

I can't say this has been the worst winter I remember. We had a mild November with a few days that did not even require a jacket. Not bad for Pennsylvania! My family had a wonderful vacation in December followed by a perfect Christmas. A nice start to the 2009-2010 winter season.

It seems the evil tide turned sometime after the New Year. We seemed plagued with days upon days of nothing but frigid temperatures, dreary skies, and icy weather. The snow in February was fun... The mess the snow left behind was ugly. After awhile even my kids started to get annoyed with going outside in the snow. We all started acting like caged in animals, desperate for some roaming room!

This past weekend the warm-up began. My friends and family were all rejoicing over 50 degree weather. Scott and I took the kids for a bike ride and it just felt good to breathe in non-stale air. There were piles of snow everywhere, but the hope of spring was under it - and the reality of that was incredible!

I can't say that spring was always my favorite month. I actually found it quite boring as a child - no sledding, no swimming, but now... (((gasp))) it is so much more than that. It is life; it is new beginnings, a rebirth of everything around me that had hid itself from the crippling grasp of winter. Even the springtime air smells different - new, fresh, and alive.

Oh the wonderful awakenings that I am so anxious to see in the upcoming days. I have heard (have yet to see it for myself) that the flowers are starting to come out of the ground. I would love to chat longer, but I am going to open up the windows, grab a sweater (it is only 50 degrees mind you) and go sit outside and soak up some good old Vitamin D!

Make sure you take a moment in your crazy lives to go outside, tip your chin upwards, and allow that beautiful sunshine to spread all of your face.

Keep it simple,
Betsy

Patience

2010-01-19T12:37:00.001-05:00

The day has finally arrived. I took Juliet, my 11 year old daughter, to the Orthodontist to get her braces put on her teeth this morning. From the time her perfect little baby teeth were all still firmly in place, we knew this day was coming. X-rays showed problems that were completely hidden to us. As the baby teeth fell out, the adult teeth became showing up in all the wrong places. In the back of her mouth she simply does not have the space to fit all the teeth that are there, let alone the ones that still have yet to arrive. And then in the front she has space between each tooth. As much as we wanted her teeth fixed, we had to wait until certain teeth fell out. And now the braces are on the teeth, but the gaps she so anxiously wants to see closed will not be fixed first. The first step is to make the teeth straight and then they can focus on making things look nice cosmetically. This process can take anywhere from 3-5 years.

Patience.

As I was driving home I started thinking about patience for my organizing clients. As a result of not only their own despair about their situations, but also television shows that can completely transform spaces in under an hour, my clients want their jobs done FAST. Although I do pride myself in fast results, what I am truly more interested in is results that last. Much like the orthodontist, the cosmetic issues are often not the aspect that needs the most attention. The foundation; the broken systems, bad habits, and low self esteem often have to get corrected first. The beauty of my job as a professional organizer is that I get to help others fix their foundation while beautifying their space, but it takes patience.

How do you combat impatience? The most important words of wisdom and experience I can share with you is to enjoy the process. Celebrate each step of the way with gratitude and pride. Simply stated, just enjoy the journey.

“Patience is bitter, but its fruit is sweet.”
-Jean-Jacques Rousseau quotes

A Clean Slate

2010-01-07T18:37:00.000-05:00

Happy New Year 2010!

The Kramer family has been very busy the last few weeks. As much as I absolutely love the time between Thanksgiving and Christmas, the hustle and bustle can completely overwhelm me. There is something very exciting about the new-ness of the new year. My kids are back in school, the house is back to its pre-holiday order, and the promise of a better year has just been born.

I must apologize for not writing down all the blogs I have composed in my head. There is a good reason, as I have a lot of exciting things happening with the website. The new one should be ready for you to check out very shortly. I love the look and feel of the new website and am so excited to share it with you all. Please check back often as it won't be long! Although the home will be different, the address is stil the same! :)

Thanks to all who have purchased my book, "Me Simplified.' Your support has been so wonderful. I plan on having the second book published by the end of 2010.

Betsy

Let the Christmas season BEGIN!

2009-11-23T18:36:00.000-05:00

After Thanksgiving, my Dad would go up to the attic and bring down the decorations. I still remember some of my favorite decorations, which surely have been tossed years ago at the determination of their tackiness, but I loved them. The macaroni ornaments, artificial fluff snow and plastic Santa and reindeer, and the felt Christmas figure magnets for the refrigerator door. I fondly remember decorating the Christmas tree and then laying under it admiring all the beautiful ornaments.

After Thanksgiving, everything began to get exciting - everywhere. There was a certain buzz in the air. At church, we received our pieces to be memorized for the Christmas pageant, and the sanctuary looked and smelled like Christmas; with the live decorated Christmas trees and large red bows and candle decorations. The houses in the neighborhoods transformed themselves into illuminated masterpieces. What would appear to an adult as T-A-C-K-Y, to a child looks spectacular! And, when we returned to school after Thanksgiving break, the classrooms were transformed into winter wonderlands.

I remember almost pitying adults during the magical time between Thanksgiving and New Years. How sad it must be for them to grow up. But here I am, an adult (most of the time), and I am right back there: grinning from ear to ear, so filled with the Christmas spirit that I can hardly contain it. For this reason, you will notice on my blog that I probably will be speaking a LOT about Christmas, my old and new traditions, and everything in between.

My Christmas decoration boxes are down from the attic, I have my Christmas choir music to learn, and I secretly admire even the tackiest illuminated homes – even if I don’t plan on emulating them!

May God bless us all this holiday season!

Betsy

Gratitude

2009-11-19T18:35:00.000-05:00

Is gratitude the act of being grateful when you get what you want out of life? Or, is true gratitude perhaps being grateful despite what you get? I looked up the definition of gratitude this morning on the internet, and this is what I found on wilkepedia.com, “Gratitude, thankfulness, or appreciation is a positive emotion or attitude in acknowledgment of a benefit that one has received or will receive.”

How can you be grateful if what you have been given is not at all what you asked for? According to the definition I found, it looks like first of all gratitude is a positive emotion or attitude. I can’t be grateful unless I act grateful. This is an action that I must carry out. Point well taken, wilkepedia.com!! The other aspect of the definition that struck me was that this positive emotion was backed by an “acknowledgement of a benefit … received or will receive.” Therefore, although the circumstance itself may not have been my wish, I will reap some sort of reward, even if for the life of me I can’t see the greater good right now. To acknowledge this is an act of faith on my part.

Thanksgiving is next week and I am so thankful and grateful for the lives of those around me. I don’t always savor the taste of life’s experiences, as so many lately have tasted quite bitter. But, I guess the old adage is true, that with a little sugar, even the sourest of lemons can make a wonderful glass of lemonade. Life’s sugar is gratitude.

What areas of your life need a little sugar?

Betsy

Bitter Ending

2009-11-11T18:34:00.000-05:00

I never met Scott’s Great Uncle to my knowledge. He may have been at some wedding or funeral from my past, but I certainly have no recollection of it. I would have easily passed him on the street without so much of a second glance. He was a stranger. I will honor his passing today by attending his funeral, but I am saddened that there is no piece of him: his personality, his hopes and dreams for the future; that I can carry with me. Sadly, no one from the funeral has really known him for years, as this is what he wanted. To my knowledge, I don’t believe he even had an animal companion.

I am reminded once again that to live is to share my life with others. It is not to acquire things, or to protect myself (above all costs) of becoming hurt. I have a responsibility to myself to share my story: my past lessons, present priorities, and future aspirations. We all have stories to tell, don’t we?

I ask you, as I ask myself, are you sharing your stories? Do you love others as deeply as possible? Are you weaving bits and pieces of yourself into those around you, so your life will go on here on earth well after you have left? Will others be better for knowing you? Or perhaps we also need to recognize whether someone amongst us is trying to share their story, but we keep pushing it off as we try so desperately to grasp everything we can in our own today.

I can usually find great solace, even amongst great sorrow, because I feel that there is a plan for everything. Today sitting at this funeral of a life I have never met, I’ll pray for lessons to be learned. When my final days are here, and let’s face it… it will happen someday for all of us. I want my ending to be sweet and lovely, just like my life.

Betsy

"Me... Simplfied" is now available on Amazon.com

2009-11-03T18:33:00.000-05:00

I am so thrilled! The search engine capabilities are not totally working yet, so if you want to check out the book on Amazon you either need to know the ISBN number or you can simply click here: http://www.amazon.com/Me-Simplified-Journey-Inner-Beneath-Clutter/dp/1449564852/ref=sr_1_1?ie=UTF8&qid=1257210528&sr=8-1

My book is DONE!

2009-10-29T18:32:00.000-04:00

The book shares not only our personal story of the fire that changed everything, and includes many of my de-cluttering tips, but I also wrote it with space for journal entries at the end of each chapter. You can find it by visiting my website http://www.cashinclutter.com/ or by going directly to the e-store at https://www.createspace.com/3406247. It will also be available on Amazon.com within 3-5 days. Will keep you all posted when it is in Amazons search database. VERY excited!!

On Pins and Needles

2009-10-26T18:31:00.000-04:00

It's coming today. My first book (notice how I said first) will be arriving today for my final review before it will be available for purchase on amazon.com. The name of it is "Me...Simplified" and I am so thrilled that I am actually at this point. I am on pins and needles wating for the FedEx man! I'll keep you all posted!

What is my cancer?

2009-10-19T18:30:00.000-04:00

Yesterday I had the amazing opportunity to listen to Kris Carr, from "Crazy Sexy Cancer" speak at Geisinger Medical Center. Kris was diagnosed with stage 4 cancer 6 years ago. She probably will never be cured from cancer, yet she considers herself a survivor.

What is a survivor? According to: wordnetweb.princeton.edu/perl/webwn it is "one who lives through affliction." It is not living despite affliction, and it is not living after the affliction is cured. It is living through the affliction while it may be ever present.

Kris asked us what our personal cancer was. I ran through all my ailments which paralyze me from time to time. I am not a patient of the hospital, but I wear a gown of fear. Kris was talking directly to me it seemed and in that moment, I think I finally got it. All this time I wanted to be cured from my afflictions: self-doubt, feelings of unworthiness, debt, and countless others... yet the cure was not the key to overcoming these obstacles. I need to live through them, allow those things to make me better; use my ailments as my teacher.

The light-bulb glowed so brightly above me, I am quite sure those around had to have seen! My life is not just starting gate and finish line. It is all the twists and turns along the way, and if I don't hold onto the steering wheel and enjoy the ride, I will spend so much time trying to look ahead to see where life is going next, that I'll forget to look out the window on my right and left side and see all I have right in this moment.

Today is a new day and I am still not perfect. Rather than spending the day doing an imperfect inventory on myself, I am going to embrace my flaws and persevere. If I did everything perfect all the time, what fun would that be? right?

Untying my gown of fear and putting on my big girl pants! Who's next??

Betsy

Planning a yard sale next spring? Better do your research first, or you could get a HEFTY fine!

2009-09-18T18:29:00.000-04:00

Do you know which items in your house right now that have been recalled by the manufacturer? I know that I don't! Did you know that if you sell that recalled item in your cleaning-out-the-house yard sale, you could get slapped with a hefty fine?

As of last year, it is now illegal to sell items that have been recalled. It does not matter if you are selling it on eBay, Craigslist, or for a buck-a-bag at your next yard sale. It doesn't even matter if you don't have a clue it has been recalled. Don't think you have anything that has been recalled because you don't have any children's items? You could very well be wrong! There are many non-children items that have also been recalled.

So, what do you do with your recalled merchandise? You can't sell it... right? You certainly cannot donate it either. The best thing to do is to contact the manufacturer and ask for their recommendations on proper disposal or recycling methods.

For more information please read the following article, and see below for some links to check out if your clutter is unsafe goods!

Taken from the article: http://online.wsj.com/article/SB10001424052970204261704574274200783855602.html

Spreading a little fairy dust...

2009-04-21T18:28:00.000-04:00

Sitting outside my office is 5 bags of outgrown clothes from my family, ready to be sent to the local charity store. This is the best feeling! Now, I admit, I love shopping. I love everything about it! Malls, outlet stores, catalogs, and online; I simply love a good bargain; and wearing a new outfit makes me feel simply amazing. But new clothes are only new for a moment and the feeling fades quickly, doesn’t it? That is why being able to pack up clothes that I don't use, can make me feel even better! Especially when I know someone else will use that which was simply cluttering up my space.

Often times as I am working with clients they struggle with getting rid of things that they "might" need someday. I understand this, but I am also am a firm believer that what goes around - comes around. Why keep something you "might" need, when someone else DEFIINATELY needs it right now. Now, I am not saying that you should toss out baby clothes when you are planning on another child, but when you are finished with that chapter, it is a great idea to give to someone else who is in need. And it can, quite frankly, feel amazing.

There are many different categories of clothing that we have in our closets, but today I want to focus on used prom gowns. There is a wonderful organization that I read about recently called Operation Fairy Dust: www.operationfairydust.org This amazing charity is in NYC and is a non-profit group that is providing prom dresses, accessories, and even makeup to girls who might otherwise not be able to afford to go to their prom. This organization is made up of volunteers who are spreading their love to those around them, but they could not operate without the donations of those who are willing to keep their memories of their proms, but let their dresses fulfill the dreams of someone else.

If we could all accept that mantra; to keep the memories but let go of the stuff... our homes would be so less complicated, wouldn't they? The next time you are going through your drawers and closets, instead of saying, "What if I might need it someday," ask yourself, "Who could use this now?" I promise you, the reward of giving is well worth your effort, and your de-cluttered drawers and closets will thank you!

Betsy

Missed Opportunities

2009-01-12T18:27:00.000-05:00

Every year directly after the new year begins, I get the unyielding desire to fix everything that was broken in 2008. I have always been one who wants to fix things, and trust me; if there is nothing broken I have the unique ability to create problems that will need fixing. This year is not special, it is time for me to look around at my world and correct those wheels that are squeaky; and there are many…

Sometimes I think the biggest mistakes I make in life are not the things that I have done wrong, but the things that I have not done at all. Missed opportunities that pass me daily, and I don’t even recognize them for the gifts that they are. Some of the most amazing turning points of my life were actually the result of simple ripples of fate, not booming life altering experiences.

My hope for this year is that I’ll do better savoring the everyday moments. I hope to be more thankful for all the experiences that come my way, especially the ones in which I get to share laughter with those around me that I love so dearly. I pray that my eyes are more open to the important, yet seemingly simple opportunities, that I often cast off as irrelevant or a waste of my time.

Finally, my hope for this year is that I can continue to show those around me how deeply I care for them.

The Happiest Place on Earth

2008-12-15T18:26:00.000-05:00

Friday - Scott took the day off. We finished packing and getting things together and then left after the kids were done with school. We drove over to the grandparents to say goodbye, and then we were off. We left their home at 4:30pm. We stopped at 10pm for the kids to go to the bathroom and brush their teeth and they fell asleep right after that for the night.

Saturday - Scott drove until around 2am (I did some dozing while he drove). I took over until we were past Jacksonville, FL but still a ways from Orlando (which was about 6:30am and the point where both kids were now awake) we stopped to eat breakfast (should have called one of the Jax girls). We arrived at hotel #1 (Comfort Inn Lake Buena Vista) at 9am. Lucky for us, our room was ready! We all got showers, brought in our luggage, and were off to Gatorland for the day. We ate at CiCi's for supper and then went back to the room for an early goodnight (about 7:30pm we were all fast asleep).

Sunday - We ate breakfast (free) and then checked out of our hotel by 8am and checked into our new room at Disney's Port Orleans - French Quarter. Our room was not ready yet, but we hopped on a bus to go to Hollywood Studios and actually got there before opening. On our first ride we were awarded the 2008 Dream Passes (part of Disney's Year of a Million Dream Event) so we had fast passes for all the rides. We had so much fun!! We left the park at 3:30 and went back to the hotel to get checked into our room and eat supper in the alacart restaurant they had on premises. We bought a free refill travel mug for each of us $13.00 each, so meals were not too pricey at the hotel restaurant when we ate there. (under $25.00 for lunch and dinners and under $15.00 for breakfasts). We went back to Hollywood Studios and stayed until 8pm and then went back to the hotel for the night.

Monday - We woke up early and headed out to the Crystal Palace at Magic Kingdom for breakfast. It was so yummy!! We finished up and got out of the restaurant before the park opened. We rode a ton of rides and then noticed the park was REALLY filling up. Miley Cyrus had been at the park over the weekend and I heard it was a MAD HOUSE). Thank Goodness we missed that!! We had a moderate amount of crowds, but it was warm and the kids were tired, so we went back to the hotel for some quiet and swimming for the kids. After swimming we ate at the hotel and then went off to go back to the park for Juliet and Dylan's 6pm appts. at Bippity Boppity Bootique.

Sidenote: Our economy is bad??? Its hard to see that when you see what you see at that shop. Now, mind you, we spent $60.00 for both kids to get their hair done...yikes Dylan was only $9.00. Juliet also got her makeup done and was given a bag full of makeup to take home. It is still a TON of money for us, which is why it was her birthday gift! In addition, she has been wanting this done everytime we go, and I realized that window of time in which she would like it is quickly coming to a close - my little girl is growing up. Now, as I said... we were just doing the hair ("Coach package" for Juliet and "Cool Dude" for Dylan), but most people were doing the large package that includes full outfit, shoes, wand, and nails for a whopping price of $250.00. And the place was JAM packed at 7pm. The person in front of us had 4 daughters and spent over $1000.00!! It made my $60.00 investment feel less painful. There were about 12 stations (heck... maybe more) and the place was full with many people waiting to get done. We had to make reservations months before our trip because it gets booked up so quickly. Mind you, the above is not a judgement... just an observation.

We left the castle (Bippity Boppity was in Cinderella's Castle) and the park was absolutely jam packed. I don't know why, but it was HIDEOUS. Absolutely hideous. We rode some rides, did some walking around the park, and left around 9pm. Back at the hotel I wrapped Juliet's hair with toilet paper and put it into a shower cap (per the hairdressers instructions). Dylan was horrified that his hair was crunchy, so we washed his Cool Dudeness out of his hair. We went straight to bed!

Tuesday - We slept a bit in on Tuesday and then we ate breakfast in our hotel. Jules was thrilled to learn that her hair was still PERFECT. I brought along cheerios, juice boxes, and raisins, and purchased milk... so we were good to go! We did not arrive at Epcot until 9am, but were quite lucky and got to ride on everything we wanted to right off the bat. We did have to fast pass Soarin (since we did not want to wait 40 minutes), but otherwise it was easy breezy. We ate at a Japanese counter service restaurant for lunch (my kids LOVED this meal the most I think). We spent the afternoon exploring the World Showcase and truly had a perfect afternoon. We had dinner reservations at the Garden Grill for 7pm and we were all STARVED by the time we got there. Soon after dinner was over we left the park and let the kids swim at the hotel until 10:30pm!

Wednesday - we ate breakfast at our hotel restaurant (another cheap meal at $10.00) and then headed off to Animal Kingdom for the day. We got in there for the opening and were the first group on the safari. We had an awesome day, with the highlight for me being the Nemo show. It is every bit as good as any show I have seen on Broadway (just quicker). This is the second time I have seen it, and I just love it. I had my normal frozen Chai and we split a couple pretzels. I also carried snacks in my bag everyday, so we always had munchies with us if needed. We left Animal Kingdom at 5pm and went back to our hotel, let the kids swim for about a half hour, and then we jumped on a boat to take us to downtown Disney. We spent the evening there and ate at Planet Hollywood. I guess we left at 9:30ish, and the kids fell asleep on the boat ride back to the hotel.

Thursday - We ate another cheerios breakfast in our room and then headed out to Magic Kington. Now, we KNEW it was supposed to rain, so we wore crappy clothes topped with ponchos. We looked pretty rough!! Luckily there were no crowds at all for the Extra Magic Hour in the morning and we rode tons and tons of rides (starting with Dumbo). The rain poured from about 10-12 and we watched a lot of shows during that time just to stay semi-dry. At 12:30 the sun came out and it turned gorgeous out. Of course, we looked absolutely horrible (dried drowned rats) but did not have time to get back to the hotel and come back for our dinner reservations at Cinderella's Castle...so we just went with it. Our clothes dried, but we walked around with squishy wet sneakers (yuck).

We stayed at the park until 7pm and then went back to the room to pack (((sigh))).

Friday - We woke up early, got our things packed into the car, checked out of our hotel, ate breakfast at the hotel, and then boarded a bus to Epcot (the kids favorite park - Scott and I like it as well). Dylan loves Mission Space (low intense with me) and Juliet loves that and Test Track. Their favorite is Spaceship Earth (the big round ball). We were there until 3:00 and then boarded the bus to take us back to the hotel. We ate a late lunch and then left the hotel at 4:30pm to head for home. We stopped at 8pm for another small bite to eat (McDonalds) and kept going. Scott drove from 4:30-10pm and then I drove from 10pm until 5am (Richmong Va). It was a LONG night. I drank 3 large diet cokes and listened to a chick lit on CD.

Saturday - Scott drove us home and we arrived at 9am. I only had time to get the stuff out of the car and then I had to go to choir practice for 10am! I made it!! I had told them I may not make it, but was so glad that I was able to get one last practice in! When I got home we jumped back into the car and got groceries and then went to 2 different train display layouts and then went out to eat (per tradition).

Looking back, it was a wonderful trip. We had so much fun just being together. I do have to say though, that when we arrived back home and saw that the house was still standing I felt I could breathe a bit easier again. Despite the billions of dollars spent to make DisneyWorld a magical place; the happiest place on earth is home.

Betsy

Bare Necessities of Life

2008-10-17T18:24:00.000-04:00

I was listening to a Retail expert speaking about the economic crisis and the tremendous impact on retail stores. I am horribly saddened by the impact that the slow down of our economy as it affects many in the retail industry (owners, employees, investors, etc). but I am also encouraged by a change of direction by us as Americans.

As I was listening to this expert, he said that the huge crunch to the industry has been caused by people just buying the necessities. People are trying to make each dollar count, and are making careful considerations before spending anything. The days of the buy now, pay later (sometimes with big interest) may be over.

On one hand I am glad that we've come to this realization. I am just sad for the many casualties left behind - and those inevitable ones which have yet to feel the swift kick of reality. Our lives are changing; it us up to us to choose whether we will make it change for the better or worse.

Money will not bring happiness, but it does help offer security. Faith without works will not pay the electrical bill, and positive thinking without effort won't buy groceries. What am I getting at? We must make a consious decision to take the life that is now upon us and make it work for us. It may be hard, but the rewards will be great; perhaps far greater than if these days had never occured in our lives.

Consider what are the necessities in your life. Spend time with those that you love. There are some estimates that go as high as 40% of a decline of the time that Americans spend with their children compared to 30 years ago.

I pray that we as a society come out of this a stronger more grounded group of people. I pray our children learn as a result that they cannot buy their soul; and they are more than what they own. My hope is that our bare necessities, priorities and goals will mesh creating within us a more contented, fulfilled individuals immersed with gratitude for what we have, rather unrest for what we seeminly want.

Enjoy the bare necessities in your life...

My #2 is #5

2008-10-15T18:24:00.000-04:00

I did it again. I blinked!! How in the world did my little boy turn five years old? I wonder if there is anything better in the world than holding the complete admiration of your son in your hands. I do not know if I am prepared to face the pain when he sees my apron strings as an anchor; yet I know the day will be inevitable, and important for him - yet devastating for me...

Dylan Scott Kramer came into our world a bit early. A boy after my own heart; super punctual albeit a bit too early. He literally has a smile that could melt your heart, and big bright brown eyes. His kisses are sloppy and his hugs are tight.

I completely eat up Dylan's adoration for me. He picks me dandelions and tells me they are for me because I am beautiful. He walks up to me at least 5 times a day and says, "I love you too, Mom..." and kisses whatever body part is closest to him (sometimes my arm, sometimes my leg, and a few times even my tush! LOL). He even told his teacher that his Mommy is "So very very booteeful."

Tell me this will never end....

(((sigh)))

5 years old, oh how my world has changed with you in my life, my sweet Dylan.

Carving Pumpkins

2008-10-12T18:22:00.000-04:00

Sometimes the greatest joy I get out of life is rewriting the simple memories of my childhood with my children as the new cast members. From picking out the perfect pumpkin, creating the jack-o-lantern's personality, pulling out the slimy gooey guts, and basking in the soft yellow glow from a candle burning bright inside their masterpiece; carving pumpkins is a memory I simply adore.

We spent Sunday afternoon with my husband Scott's family for the annual pumpkin carving tradition. The grandchildren draw on the faces and my father-in-law does all the cutting. My 21 year old nephew even hands over his pumpkin for his Pap to do the careful cutting. My Father-in-law takes his own artistic liberties when he feels the cutting will be made easier with alterations.

Per our family's tradition; after the pumpkins are all decorated, we wait for 24 hours and then roast the pumpkin seeds. The aroma hit us nearly immediately, and it seemed like forever until the seeds were ready to eat. We were greatly awarded for our patience when we indulge in deliciously warm roasted pumpkin seeds.

Want to taste them for yourselves?

Betsy's Roasted Pumpkin Seeds

Rinse the pumpkin seeds well and drain

Place clean pumpkin seeds on a non-terry towel and allow to airdry for 24 hours

Preheat oven to 275 degrees

Place the pumpkin seeds in a bowl and drizzle about 1 TBS of olive oil (depending on how many seeds you have)

Add liberal amounts of season salt and garlic powder

Stir the seeds to even distribute oil and seasonings

On a foil-lined cookie sheet, spray non-stick baking spray

Pour seeds on the cookie sheet

Bake for 1 hour, stir after each 15 minutes

YUM!!

A Decade of Blessings

2008-09-17T14:26:00.000-04:00

10 years ago I became a mommy. While other kids were making plans to become Doctors, and Lawyers, policemen, and firefighters, all I wanted to do was have a family. I was far too old to play with dolls, yet cuddling and nurturing a toy gave me a glimpse into the future I so desperately wanted.
The road to become a mommy was not simple. There was infertility and loss. I did everything right, yet seemed unable to have a baby. I made the painful conscious decision that if I were not blessed by having a baby of my own, I would make it my mission to be the best aunt, cousin, etc. to the children in my life. Not soon after making the proclamation to myself, I became pregnant... and stayed pregnant, and had my baby girl. The baby girl for whom I had dreamed of since I was old enough to dream.

Now, Juliet Kramer was not born the sweet, kind, and happy girl that you would see in her today. She came into the world with drama (I had pre-eclampsia with her and had to deliver her early), and she made her presence VERY known during the first three months of her life, as she had one massive case of colic that rendered her screaming for hours upon hours upon hours... and so on, and so on, and so on. I cannot believe that her vocal chords, and our dwindling patience, could handle such screaming.

During this time, we burned out 2 vacuum cleaners. It seemed the best thing to calm her was to turn on the vaccum cleaner; so if you had popped by our home during that time, you would find bleary eyed parents, watching closed caption television, and listening to a blaring vacuum cleaner running yet parked in the corner.

Those months are but a brief memory, and her addition to our life is irreplaceable. When we had Dylan nearly five years ago, I realized what completion felt like. Looking at perfection in my arms, my heart felt full, nearly overflowing.

Happiness and contentment for me is being a Mom. Knowing that someday my kids will look to me at where the bar should be raised as a parent is a huge responsibility; and one I do not take lightly. I make mistakes daily, and I wish I knew all the answers and pray that someday they will use my mistakes as lessons for themselves. I know there will be rough days ahead, but I am so grateful for every last day that has been behind us.

The bad moments don't even compare to the blessings that being parents have brought to our lives. Thank you, God, for giving us these two beautiful blessings to take care of for you. Now I just pray you stand by our side even closer as we approach the TEEN YEARS!!

Many thanks to Volunteers

2008-09-03T18:20:00.000-04:00

This weekend our small town celebrated its 89th annual All Home Days celebration www.allhomeday.org Up until this year I always was so busy organizing different aspects of it that I barely got to appreciate all that it offered. This year I was able to attend it as a community member, as my husband stepped in to take my place and I simply was his helper from time to time.

What would we do without volunteers? So many wonderful things in our communities operate solely on volunteer help and donations, and so often the volunteers are not even thanked, actually from my experience they are often criticized. My parents were always very active in our community and I always felt it to be an obligation to be as well. As I have gotten older and am now having my own children volunteer, I have finally matured to realize that it is not an obligation, rather it is a priviledge to create a better world in my own community.

I would like to take this time to thank all of those who take precious time out of their weeks to work as:

Sunday school teachers

PTA members

Volunteer firefighters

Mentors

Program coordinators for various events

Environmental clean-up crew members

Sport coaches

Scout Leaders

Big Brother/Big Sisters

Library helpers

Meal delivery personal for elderly

and many many others...

My goodness, the list goes on and on...doesn't it? There are many other volunteers than what I have posted here and each one is very necessary and their work is greatly appreciated. If you get a chance this week, thank the volunteers in your own life. I guarantee, they will appreciate it, and it helps rekindle the spark in them to continue when they know they are making a difference in the lives of others.

Thicker Than Water

2008-08-07T07:49:00.000-04:00

This past weekend a few of my female adult (I term I use loosely) relatives and went away for our annual shopping extravaganza. Our destination was not even 2 hours away, yet we saw it fit to require 2 nights stay at a hotel. Who needs 3 full days and 2 nights shopping? Noone, but we certainly weren't sharing that information with our husbands! It was not the shopping that we needed, it was the time together.

Being the good professional organizer, I was my #1 client for the week leading up to the trip. I cleaned out all of our closets so I had a clear understanding of not only what I needed, but what I did not need (far more important). I created my list and I was ready to go! I remind all of you to make sure you do this before you shop. It is amazing what you forget that you own!

We started this annual shopping trip a few years ago and every year it has become more and more an essential part of our summer plans. To devote a few days to yourself (money & time) is so needed. To allow yourself a little bit of what you freely give to everyone else throughout the year is so welcomed and needed. But even more important, to strengthen your family roots somehow makes your own leaves that much brighter and the fruits of your spirit that much sweeter.

A Renewed Spirit of Living

2008-07-29T09:16:00.000-04:00

On Friday I saw the news headline that Randy Pausch, the "Last Lecture" Professor, had succumbed to the pancreatic cancer death sentence that had inspired millions of people to engage fully in living life, to become an active participant. (For more info check out his website: http://download.srv.cs.cmu.edu/~pausch/ ) My heart broke, but at the same time was filled with the memories of the words that had haunted me from his lecture and subsequent interviews. It is a harsh reality that through his family's pain, so many others received hope.

As people worldwide grieved the loss of Randy Pausch, grief hit a bit closer home to us. On the same day, my Uncle lost his father. He was the pillar of his family, well respected and loved by many. I was honored to attend his funeral yesterday. To celebrate a life now passed really helped to renew in me a spirit of living.

While honoring the life of this man, I could not help but ponder my own mortality. I don't just want nice things said about me; I want to earn great memories from others. Not of wealth and popularity, but of a spirit so filled with love for others that it spilled out in every aspect of my life. I want to live my life as a clear reflection of my priorities, so that there is no doubt who I love and to what lengths I would show it. I desire to be a great example of what I preach, that attachment to things is meaningless, yet relationships with people are irreplaceable.

For those of us who still have work to do on earth, I remind you (as I remind myself) that life is such a gift and one that comes with great responsibility. Be mindful to drink all of life's milk before the expiration date, because when the time is up... it is too late. Sure, it makes it a bit trickier when the expiration date is so smudged that it is not legible, but that is why we are to savor each and every day.

A Blog without a Box

2008-07-23T12:40:00.000-04:00

I knew I wanted to put a blog on my website, but was not sure exactly what the rules were. What was the right way, and what was wrong. I started reading as many blogs as I could, to try and discern the proper blogging method. The only common thread that I could find was that the blog was a bit of an excerpt from the mind of the blogger. Just as all of us are unique; so are the blogs that we create. I have read some amazing blogs, and I have read some that caused me to scratch my head in amazement and think, “Whoa, do people really think like that?”

I guess through it all I have realized that there are no rules with blogging; an aspect that I admit I don't feel very comfortable. I like to be firmly placed inside a box of comfort and boundaries. It is not just with blogging, it is with life in general. I like to know what to expect, and know that what I am giving others will meet their expectations. That can't happen when there are no rules, can it?

It is probably no coincidence that my job is to help others put things into boxes, and place the containers neatly away. I enjoy boxes; I like the cleanliness of containerized things. I enjoy order and systems. A line is to be colored inside. It is a rule somewhere... right?
So, here it is. I am stepping out of my world of comfort and giving you an excerpt into my thoughts. In this blog I plan on sharing the everyday ways that I have found to make living my life just a bit more simplified. Organized = Simplified. Does that seem like an oxymoron to you? Do you see people who are organized as having too much time on your hands? I can share with you the secrets to doing more with less time!

Keep reading future blogs and perhaps by me stepping outside of my box, you'll find the strength to push yourself past your own self-imposed limitations.

Betsy