Thursday, July 16, 2009

Think outside the list!

I myself am a big fan of lists. Sometimes I just don't have the time to write everything down, especially if I am in a hurry. Here is a little trick I use to help shortcut the process. I place an item strategically as a visual reminder of a task that needs to be completed. For example, recently, I needed to remind myself to make a jello salad for a picnic. After I did the grocery shopping, I put the boxes of jello on my kitchen table. Other examples of times where I use objects as cues are putting the slips for dry cleaning, postal reminders, etc. in a visible area of my car. This also saves me gas because I don't have to run home to get the slips before completing my errand.

One important thing to keep in mind is to be careful not to overuse this trick or you might find yourself creating clutter instead of reminders.

Unleash Your Organized Me!

Wednesday, July 15, 2009

Survey...In need of feedback regarding what characteristics of websites attract attention.

Hi everyone!

I am currently taking a survey for a web design class I am enrolled in. I am looking for feedback in regards to what characteristics of websites attract your attention the most. Here are examples of questions to fuel your thought.

Is it the format? If so, what do you like about how it is organized?

How about the way content is written?

Do you feel that the use of graphics helps or hinders your ability to interact with the website?

Do you prefer websites with multiple pages or do you like content to be arranged on one page?

What features do you feel are most important for website authors to include on their pages?


Any feedback is highly appreciated! Thank you!

Unleash Your Organized Me!

Monday, July 6, 2009

Make A Rainy Day an Organizing Day!

It's summer in Rochester and there is no shortage of rain! I can almost hear the litany of children's voices singing the "I'm Bored Blues". Rainy days are perfect for organizing! Organizing is like a puzzle! I know there are some of you who are doubting that your children would be interested in organizing. What I can tell you is that most of the time when I am organizing, the children always want to help. Many times, we uncover a favorite item that was believed to be "lost" but was merely underneath a pile of clutter.

With a few supplies and a little creativity, you can keep your children engaged for hours! Here are some suggestions on how to create "kid friendly" organizing tasks:

Start with areas that have items the kids will use. Such areas might be the basement or garage where sports equipment, pool supplies, and toys are often stored. Summer is the perfect time to take an inventory of what you have on hand so that you are prepared for all those barbeques and sleepovers. It is also a good time to set unwanted items aside for garage sales. You can use the proceeds towards a fun summer activity!

Provide an ample supply of different sized storage containers and shelf space. This can be a little painful if you have shelves that are already full. Nonetheless, you will need to clear them. Start with one section so it doesn't seem overwhelming. I am known to literally "dump" everything on the floor and start from scratch. It lets you survey the array of items that need to be organized. It's like opening a new jigsaw puzzle!

Use that rain water! Set some of those dirty garage or basement items out in the rain to help wash them off. While the rain might not get all that grime, at least you are putting it to good use. Keep a garden hose handy for additional rinsing.

Have snacks and beverages handy. Organizing involves physical activity, so people tend to get hungry and thirsty. While you are at it, put some good music on! Before you know it, everybody is having fun and by then, maybe the rain will be gone!



Unleash Your Organized Me!