tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-56518332664695408222024-03-08T03:33:45.491-08:00The Neat Get Neaterorganization, neatness, tidiness, cleaning, house, home, neat freak, tipsBethhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/12887675399476057016noreply@blogger.comBlogger136125tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5651833266469540822.post-18960130083833858962015-02-09T06:26:00.000-08:002015-02-09T06:26:01.632-08:00Day 148: Favorite Scent<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgBlKJkzbyOM8aqpfVcv57bt-0SgGPpU3etR6e368t3kSsMWDaOAj-6wa8zogNsWwYhmOvVEXul7N22dccX_-YfsWiqGPTJLP7Re7cmYlltOlDKeT2eENM7JsjasTQQ-GMSC45A3mkJ0PYQ/s1600/MMCD_LEM_GiftSetBucket.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: right; float: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgBlKJkzbyOM8aqpfVcv57bt-0SgGPpU3etR6e368t3kSsMWDaOAj-6wa8zogNsWwYhmOvVEXul7N22dccX_-YfsWiqGPTJLP7Re7cmYlltOlDKeT2eENM7JsjasTQQ-GMSC45A3mkJ0PYQ/s1600/MMCD_LEM_GiftSetBucket.jpg" height="320" width="244" /></a></div>
I love <a href="http://www.mrsmeyers.com/" target="_blank">Mrs. Meyer's Clean Day </a>products. The natural, powerful, high-quality products make my house look great, and the bright, clean, wonderful scents make everything smell incredible. <br />
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But I may be in a rut. I love the lemon verbena -- in everything. Admittedly, I think I have this aroma in just about <i>every</i> Mrs. Meyer's product.<br />
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So... I'm curious. What scent is YOUR favorite? Perhaps I need to branch out a bit and try something new this spring? I'd love to hear your thoughts!Bethhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/12887675399476057016noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5651833266469540822.post-55212389392792090342014-11-03T13:32:00.000-08:002014-11-03T13:33:14.660-08:00Day 147: Dirty FansDirty fans creep me out - a lot. I just don't get it! In our household, the ceiling fans are on almost all the time... so, how is it that they get SO filthy? What about that quote: a rolling stone gathers no moss? Shouldn't that concept transfer to the fan? You know, a circulating blade gathers no dust? But, alas. Instead, our fans always look like THIS! <i>Ewwwwwww</i>!<br />
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My husband is usually the one who gets so grossed out y this that he tackles the cleaning task - with paper towels and Pledge. The blades always look shiny and new, but then there's chunks of dust bunnies all over the couch or bed or floor (or on all of the above).<br />
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SO... here's a new plan: pillow cases. That's right! PILLOW CASES! Put this one in your neat freak cheat sheet! If you use a pillow case to clean your fan blades, those nasty, dirty bits will end up IN the case, and you can simply toss them in the washing machine afterward.<br />
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgAcGeh9HeuIymUMIsWvxilQtqfiuQQOWVvfC1KGQ36WXM67RxZ4n00PqFiMOrM5B4StcXeAawEZxbxqvlUVG7pSNYmuhs-7M8Wr5zfhABDIVm2ats6rh9Gy4-_crQ41RqGaFNJ9qKBK0SD/s1600/photo-4.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgAcGeh9HeuIymUMIsWvxilQtqfiuQQOWVvfC1KGQ36WXM67RxZ4n00PqFiMOrM5B4StcXeAawEZxbxqvlUVG7pSNYmuhs-7M8Wr5zfhABDIVm2ats6rh9Gy4-_crQ41RqGaFNJ9qKBK0SD/s1600/photo-4.jpg" height="300" width="400" /></a></div>
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<span style="font-style: italic;">Now, THAT's neat!</span><br />
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Bethhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/12887675399476057016noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5651833266469540822.post-56411489368844388572014-09-16T06:53:00.003-07:002014-09-16T07:14:03.808-07:00Day 146: My Pro Mist Obsession<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjR-ob-F8UG4zx67O1iiTwKpFxcz9piJ8WlqDNxg_etqtWvECD3pJZQJ5GCeEKkvyvEdyWl-o6S4p2TDxysv6L8U8NRFOBmTyCyjGCRbyzphxnHIO6TFptbbZQVOoEd7R4hH98L7KTcMf0N/s1600/photo+1.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjR-ob-F8UG4zx67O1iiTwKpFxcz9piJ8WlqDNxg_etqtWvECD3pJZQJ5GCeEKkvyvEdyWl-o6S4p2TDxysv6L8U8NRFOBmTyCyjGCRbyzphxnHIO6TFptbbZQVOoEd7R4hH98L7KTcMf0N/s1600/photo+1.JPG" height="640" width="480" /></a>I <i>love</i> when I find a new cleaning product that absolutely <b>WOWS</b> me! And the <a href="http://www.ocedar.com/promist?gclid=CjwKEAjwv9-gBRD5ofn2jd2N0UUSJACcdilsBKU9ojCk31vazD3x1iZWH9UuKLyjwxT9UFOl5sgFphoCcZjw_wcB" target="_blank">Pro Mist</a><a href="http://www.ocedar.com/promist?gclid=CjwKEAjwv9-gBRD5ofn2jd2N0UUSJACcdilsBKU9ojCk31vazD3x1iZWH9UuKLyjwxT9UFOl5sgFphoCcZjw_wcB" target="_blank"> </a>has done just that - on so many levels!<br />
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I have been using this microfiber spray mop from O-Cedar for the past two months... to REALLY test it out in our home. I've used it on our hardwood floors and on the tile in the bathrooms, and it has done a superb job, all around!<br />
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Following the directions, I added water to the one-button, easy-to-fill-use-and-remove container and mixed in some all-purpose rosemary mint cleaning solution from Gold Canyon. Then I sprayed and mopped, and sprayed and mopped, all over the house! My kids immediately noticed the smile on my face and were anxious to get in on the fun. Funny thing, they love it SO much, both my 12-year-old daughter and my 4-year-old son ASK if they can clean the floors with this handy -- and fun -- spray mop! <i>(This added bonus, alone, is worth way more than words can express!)</i><br />
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The Pro Mist creates a wonderful mist/spray with great coverage at the squeeze of a handle, so there's no bending, fussing, fighting, or readjusting! Our house immediately started to smell heavenly, like a luxury spa... and it was super easy and effective to clean up the <span class="a-list-item">dirt, dust, and grime with the durable, refillable, washable pad. (It says the microfiber pad is </span><span class="a-list-item">machine washable over 100 times... and I've already sent two of ours through the cycle about 5 times, each!)</span><br />
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I used to think that nothing could be better than my Swiffer. But I'm pretty convinced that this Pro Mist can take most other wet mops to the cleaners.... <i>ha-ha! </i> Seriously, though, this spray mop has really come through for our family and has helped THIS neat freak retain some level of serenity as Rowdy, our four-footed family member, has aged and, recently, has lost some of his bladder control. <i>EEK</i>! Our poor, deaf little dog tends to dribble, unknowingly, as he trots around the house. So, I've left our Pro Mist out, indefinitely, in the kitchen where it's super simple to grab and use to clean up the piddle spots. (<i>The disposable refills are GREAT for this very thing, by the way.</i>) The whole family is armed, trained, and ready at a moment's notice to spray/mist and clean. We couldn't have done it without O-Cedar! After all, there's also a 10-month-old baby around here who has just learn to crawl. And we want to be sure she's got a clean path, wherever she chooses to go!<br />
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Want your own Pro Mist? Snatch one on Amazon right <a href="http://www.amazon.com/O-Cedar-ProMist-Microfiber-Spray-Mop/dp/B004HBCIR6/ref=sr_1_3?ie=UTF8&qid=1410874930&sr=8-3&keywords=pro+mist" target="_blank">HERE</a> for less than $25! It just may become your family's cleaning obsession, too.<br />
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<span style="font-style: italic;">Now, THAT's neat!</span> Bethhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/12887675399476057016noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5651833266469540822.post-49884477679900332522014-06-27T06:06:00.002-07:002014-06-27T06:06:11.943-07:00Day 145: Scarves + Tension Rods = BrilliantGet your Neat Freak Cheat Sheet ready to go, because I spotted an <b>incredible</b> idea for scarves the other day from apartmenttherapy.com ...<br />
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Now, technically this a solution for people who live in apartments (<i>or who have little storage space</i>), but it can be easily adapted for a bathroom or closet, no matter where you live! <br />
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I think the photos speak for themselves, but the idea is that you get several tension rods (<span style="font-size: x-small;">which are usually inexpensive ... BONUS!</span>) and hang them up in what may be a typically unused space, like behind a door or in a small nook in a closet or a bathroom. Get out that colorful collection of scarves and hang them up by slipping them on the rods using an easy-to-remove knot. <br />
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It looks amazing, it takes up very little room, it's all organized... AND it's so easy to get your scarf pick for your outfit that day!<br />
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<span style="font-style: italic;">Now, THAT's neat!</span> <br />
Bethhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/12887675399476057016noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5651833266469540822.post-58831513919483056822014-06-11T09:07:00.003-07:002014-06-11T09:09:08.129-07:00Day 144: The Mini Vac - My Salvation, My SanityI got a purple Shark Pet Perfect II Hand Vacuum this past Christmas. <i>Don't judge!</i> I received a full-size vacuum cleaner for Christmas several years ago! :) (Hey - it's NOT a bad gift for a neat freak.) It's such a handy "neat freak cheat sheet" item that every household should have, especially if you have pets... or kids!<br />
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiMCcE40RzFcC3izF3_Kt4HFW632rNH4gVawFUsOBQDKjKaekDgPgKJ7XGSarBrtpqcTvTo-C-YnjbzEjMBqOkz3-Ch-LMY9cecWXSXbRu5Pnd58-AKlNb1utbjTOp2y3bId7FTnETBzild/s1600/13477771.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiMCcE40RzFcC3izF3_Kt4HFW632rNH4gVawFUsOBQDKjKaekDgPgKJ7XGSarBrtpqcTvTo-C-YnjbzEjMBqOkz3-Ch-LMY9cecWXSXbRu5Pnd58-AKlNb1utbjTOp2y3bId7FTnETBzild/s1600/13477771.jpg" height="200" width="200" /></a> I've decided that this little wonder is one thing that helps me keep my cool each and every day with three children... and a dog... and a husband with a dirty job! I no longer have to break out the "big guns" when cereal gets all over the floor or when dirt clumps create a "welcome" mat on the hardwood floor, right in front of the door to the garage. Better yet - even my 4-year old can use this lightweight mini vac! The kids actually ENJOY cleaning with this machine!<br />
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The mini vac has truly been a lifesaver, even this morning when I had to vacuum eggs out of my son's hair. Yes. Eggs. And, yes... I<i> vacuumed them out!</i> I had just sucked up the mess he left on the couch, so I turned toward him and spotted the food he was wearing/storing... or whatever was going on there. He thought it was pretty funny. And... <b>it worked!</b> Way to save the day - and my sanity - again, mini vac! <br />
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<span style="font-style: italic;">Now, THAT's neat!</span>Bethhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/12887675399476057016noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5651833266469540822.post-51344551476462068332014-06-05T09:09:00.001-07:002014-06-05T09:09:15.642-07:00Day 143: Cleaning, scheduling and staying organizedI'm one of those people who has the exact same "cleaning day" set aside, each and every week. I can't help it. In some ways, I even get a little bit excited about it! After all, I <u><b>am</b></u> a neat freak, and I just <b>LOVE</b> the look, smell and feel of a clean house! <br />
Some people, however, love to use lists and check off cleaning and organizing items throughout the week. For instance, Monday may be the day you clean out the refrigerator. Tuesdays may be laundry day. And Saturdays may be set aside for disinfecting the bathrooms. <br />
See, I just can't bring myself to work this way. If I do little bits and pieces, scattered through the week, I feel like things are left undone... and are never truly clean. I know it can be quite a chore and quite a challenge, but I like EVERYTHING clean at ONE TIME! (I guess I have a little OCD mixed in with my neat freakishness!)<br />
What about you? Do you prefer to work on a little at a time... or do you, also, attack the whole shebang? <i> (Somebody tell me I'm not alone! Ha-ha!)</i><br />
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<span style="font-style: italic;">Now, THAT's neat!</span>Bethhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/12887675399476057016noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5651833266469540822.post-60912423506868273942014-01-28T05:07:00.001-08:002014-01-28T05:09:34.462-08:00Day 142: A GIVEAWAY!I love neat things... and a few neat things that make that neat list include: watches, calendars and clocks... neat things that I can wear or display or just use that help me keep my life in order.<br />
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SO, I just absolutely HAD to share this awesome <a href="https://www.facebook.com/LiveLifeInspired" target="_blank">"time spent with family" clock giveaway</a>! It's a beautiful kit with the hands/mechanism and the vinyl (in YOUR color choice to matchy matchy!)... all you add are the frames and photos - 4 of them... or all 12 for the whole clock! What a beautiful and wonderful reminder of what really matters the most in life!!!<br />
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LOVE this... so, be sure to click here and visit <a href="https://www.facebook.com/LiveLifeInspired" target="_blank">Beth's Uppercase Living Facebook page</a> for your chance to WIN! OR... you could always get your own <a href="http://bethalcazar.uppercaseliving.net/ViewItem.m?CategoryId=275&DesignId=&ItemId=64245&Keyword=clock&CurrentPage=1" target="_blank">family clock kit </a>by going directly to the <a href="http://bethalcazar.uppercaseliving.net/Home.m" target="_blank">website, here, </a>to order! There are LOTS of other neat things <a href="http://bethalcazar.uppercaseliving.net/Home.m" target="_blank">there</a>, too! (My favorite <a href="http://bethalcazar.uppercaseliving.net/Category.m?CategoryId=356&CatalogId=DEFAULT" target="_blank">chalk labels</a>, for one! Check out more about those on my blog, <a href="http://getneater.blogspot.com/2011/07/day-107-chalk-label-obsession.html" target="_blank">here</a> in the pantry and <a href="http://getneater.blogspot.com/2012/04/day-120-chalk-labels-strike-again.html" target="_blank">here</a> for more ideas!)<br />
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<span style="font-style: italic;">Now, THAT's neat!</span>Bethhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/12887675399476057016noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5651833266469540822.post-7602487536744722202013-07-13T06:33:00.005-07:002013-07-13T06:34:01.292-07:00Day 141: Instant Bib HolderOh, kids... and their neat freak moms. ;) I would have LOVED to have thought of this little "neat freak cheat sheet" tip a few years ago! Instead of running to the laundry room for a bib<i><span style="font-size: x-small;"> (or for ANOTHER bib or 3 for those spaghetti nights)</span></i>, a stick-on hook on the back of the highchair does the trick perfectly. Anyone else having one of those <i>why-didn't-I-think-of-that</i> moments? Well, it's a-ok. Just stick and hang away, and make meal time a little less chaotic!<br />
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<span style="font-style: italic;">Now, THAT's neat!</span>Bethhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/12887675399476057016noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5651833266469540822.post-88474215259951338142013-07-01T10:45:00.001-07:002013-07-01T10:45:15.018-07:00DAY 140: Share YOUR Neat Ideas!<br />
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Have a neat product? Stumble upon a really neat idea? Try something neat for yourself? <i><b>Well, let us know! </b></i><br />
This is a blog all about neat things, and I know I'm not the only one out there who loves the tips, techniques, resources and ideas. Send me an email (<i>bethiswriting at yahoo dot com</i>) with your photos or thoughts, and we'll get your neat thoughts out here for the world to see!<br />
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<span style="font-style: italic;">Now, THAT's neat!</span>Bethhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/12887675399476057016noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5651833266469540822.post-4031906304651744312013-06-18T08:06:00.001-07:002013-06-18T08:06:27.426-07:00DAY 139: His & HersI honestly don't think that anyone in his or her right mind would <i>ever</i> confuse my husband's closet with mine... or vice versa, but that doesn't take away from the fact that it's fun to have an Uppercase Living vinyl "label" on each door. It adds an element of whimsy to your door decor. And it's just one of those neat, little things that I like! You can do the same kind of thing with vanities/mirrors in your bathroom or over the towel racks, to show whose towel is whose! There are lots of fun ways to separate the genders in your household!<br />
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<span style="font-style: italic;">Now, THAT's neat!</span> </div>
Bethhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/12887675399476057016noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5651833266469540822.post-1266978415293701362013-06-17T11:05:00.000-07:002013-06-17T11:05:06.706-07:00DAY 138: Neat PlateWhen I was a child, I did NOT like my food to touch. For instance, I would have a plate for chicken, a bowl for green beans and a separate bowl for rice... and I'd have a fork or a spoon for each food item! I have always had a "selective palate," so to speak, and one thing that bothered me (<i>and still does</i>) was food running together. I like plain, simple (bland?) food, and I don't like many sauces or cheeses, so it was always tough for me to enjoy a happy meal (ha-ha), especially when I went to other people's homes for dinner. "Oh, you're a <u>picky</u> eater," they would say. "<i>What in the world will we feed you</i>?" And then they'd set down a plate full of runny meat juices and oozing cheese. EEK! Honestly, I don't think I'm that picky at all. <span style="font-size: x-small;"> (And I don't use separate vessels or utensils for each food item anymore!) </span> I just like simple, delicious food! And I don't want all those simple, delicious foods to blend into one another. I want to enjoy each one separately. <br />
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That's why THIS plate is a pretty ingenious (and neat) invention. Of course, it's perfect for portion control <i>(anyone dieting!?!)</i>, but it's also a clever tool for those of us who like to keep our foods separate. You can use the old "cafeteria-style" plate or tray, but this is just another fun option for meal measuring and divided dinners! AND, once you are finished with the plating of your food, you can remove this shield-type device, leaving behind a perfectly proportioned (and separated) meal!<br />
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<a href="http://www.amazon.com/Meal-Measure-Portion-Control-Color/dp/B008WNVRA4/ref=pd_sim_hpc_7" target="_blank"><img border="0" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiGOtG3ZUV4_ETzd0uGMyBmrElyohotpAmhG3NLVh_TGfWAwQ5PRTTHQ3Iq0yND-zrCMD45yeUZvadVNmDhQUFcT8BYHC5I28sSHll4UlQYVyQq-OM5fVVdv6QDOikNKMw2WsLKq9P9PfRr/s320/51dsn3mNsAL._SY450_.jpg" width="316" /></a></div>
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<span style="font-style: italic;">Now, THAT's neat!</span>Bethhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/12887675399476057016noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5651833266469540822.post-64728964010680549522013-06-14T05:41:00.000-07:002013-06-14T05:42:50.877-07:00Day 137: MORE vinyl in the kitchen!<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgbkHQRVnj8N_UZoByErXsOTlDChZFxA4cSjpPtmf00yfaDC1UlJfgkMNT8bZO1iGv6pdfXn7COuYb0D-VOR4gszN1-vXhwj9QZABI2qGZ-vHteQM7KA-EKe2HaOKbwgr1z2guFBrANp8qD/s1600/1017459_10201432589356016_1412600011_n.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="311" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgbkHQRVnj8N_UZoByErXsOTlDChZFxA4cSjpPtmf00yfaDC1UlJfgkMNT8bZO1iGv6pdfXn7COuYb0D-VOR4gszN1-vXhwj9QZABI2qGZ-vHteQM7KA-EKe2HaOKbwgr1z2guFBrANp8qD/s400/1017459_10201432589356016_1412600011_n.jpg" width="400" /></a></div>
I can't sing the praises of vinyl lettering enough for fun, decor AND organization! I LOVE it! For a neat person who would have a special container and a label for EVERYTHING, you just can't beat this! :) I had to show this lovely photo of a woman after my own heart, who is getting her pantry super neat. And YOU can do it, too! Find some containers of your choosing - whether you go to the Container Store or buy Tupperware or you head to the nearest Dollar Tree and get everything for a buck, it's up to you, your style and your needs. Go with glass, or select plastic... pick one color, or color coordinate! THEN, get rid of those annoying cardboard boxes and put common, useful things like sugar, brown sugar, powdered sugar, rice, pasta, cake flour, all-purpose flour and whatever else you'd like (think cookies and crackers, too) into your containers.... and LABEL THEM! I prefer to use Uppercase Living chalk labels (or dry erase labels). You can even purchase a whole chalk (or dry erase) panel and cut them down to size! OR, chose a font and color and custom your own lettering for each container. Just be sure to measure twice; order once! :) <br />
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<a href="http://bethalcazar.uppercaseliving.net/ViewItem.m?CategoryId=356&DesignId=&ItemId=62003&Keyword=chalk&CurrentPage=3" target="_blank"><img border="0" height="237" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgB3bfXCPV2Fbw14MlhUfI9x-tCChhochQBh88Yex1BV-KMcTvBsQOKUZeQr8htDDnD6bCT3AyHOyg-heyDS2__hYG-0n0Rc9ygdGlx0c38Aenw5z6YT38sqTgDmtmEDHhhKpja4jetrfs0/s320/Screen+shot+2013-06-14+at+7.37.11+AM.png" width="320" /></a></div>
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<span style="font-style: italic;">Now, THAT's neat!</span>Bethhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/12887675399476057016noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5651833266469540822.post-36070359082549731712013-03-04T11:26:00.003-08:002013-06-14T05:42:03.140-07:00Day 136: Mail Bucket<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
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I don't know about y'all, but the mail in my house has a tendency to spread out... and to migrate... and to take over many "usable" spots and work spaces in my kitchen. Of course, I have a little system for wrangling bills... I open them immediately and then "file" them in a little holder on the counter... so I don't forget to pay them. <span style="font-size: x-small;">(Out of sight, out of mind... so they day!) </span> But what about all the OTHER stuff - you know, those letters, fliers, coupons, catalogs and other random odds and ends for my family?<br />
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Well, I finally got tired of this "OTHER stuff" being all over my kitchen counter, so I decided to reuse a little item I've had for a while now... in a closet! I just took this tin bucket and repurposed it. Instead of adding flowers and nailing it up on a wall or hanging it outside, I put in a little burlap <span style="font-size: x-small;">(which didn't make it to the photo - sorry, <i>afterthought</i>!</span>) and then applied a meaningful, <a href="http://bethalcazar.uppercaseliving.net/Home.m" target="_blank">Uppercase Living </a>expression, to give the old bucket some new life and interest!<br />
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjuYSxGeA3Mz_vaScTuzoQGnwlXKKmjOShQG3LCLjapqpOY8KGJqfrsy1v1vq7O8RVAVrg8I9B2ASu44SYvf6Bp7aBw16iWjQrI4rNUVBgtUo8s1UTVIFMWEqPWtcaVb5dfPIfiuW3yfmHU/s1600/556159_548179245212310_716906766_n.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjuYSxGeA3Mz_vaScTuzoQGnwlXKKmjOShQG3LCLjapqpOY8KGJqfrsy1v1vq7O8RVAVrg8I9B2ASu44SYvf6Bp7aBw16iWjQrI4rNUVBgtUo8s1UTVIFMWEqPWtcaVb5dfPIfiuW3yfmHU/s320/556159_548179245212310_716906766_n.jpg" width="240" /></a></div>
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Now, this fun little holder hangs from a burlap ribbon on the door to our garage, which is <u>in</u> our kitchen, <u>near</u> the counter where the mail used to collect. I simply stuff the items inside, and we remove, use or toss those items as we get to them. It's a really pretty - and organized - alternative to those random paper stacks!<br />
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<span style="font-style: italic;">Now, THAT's neat!</span><br />
<br />Bethhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/12887675399476057016noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5651833266469540822.post-16192981967255905592013-03-01T11:55:00.001-08:002013-03-01T11:56:34.191-08:00Day 135: Over or Under?<br />
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This particular household debate has been going on since... <i>uh</i>... the dawn of toilet paper! And "The Neat Get Neater" would like to know: do <b><i>you</i></b> replace the roll so the paper goes <b>OVER</b>... or <b>UNDER</b>!?!?<br />
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I'll have to admit it; I'm an over-kind of girl. I don't want to have to reach for... look for... or fish for the toilet paper. Ever. And that's what often happens when the toilet paper roll is loaded UNDER. I, personally, like when my TP is conveniently located on top of the roll, and that's what happens when you load the paper OVER.<br />
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As far as looks... <i>does anyone really look at the toilet paper roll</i>? And does one re-loading method ] look better than the other? I seriously contemplated this and nearly decided that it <u>does</u> look a little better when it's loaded UNDER the roll... EEK! But then I realized that even the fanciest resorts load the toilet paper OVER, and then they fold the ends to a neat, little point. Now, you won't find my guest bath loaded with pointy TP. But, hopefully, guests will only notice that the toilet paper is there. That it's soft. And that it works. Enough said...<br />
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<span style="font-style: italic;">Now, THAT's neat!</span>Bethhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/12887675399476057016noreply@blogger.com3tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5651833266469540822.post-20355932369374837552013-02-18T06:51:00.002-08:002013-02-18T06:52:51.975-08:00Day 134: Hedgehogs in the Dryer?My husband knows me too well.... I am quite a sucker for cute gadgets and cute animals. So, when I spotted dryer balls that looked like little, white hedgehogs, I was hooked. I pointed them out to my husband, who kind of shrugged it off. SO, I was completely surprised -<i> and delighted </i>- when I received said hedgehogs as a Valentine's Day gift! <span style="font-size: x-small;"><i> (Aren't they CUTE?!?!)</i></span><br />
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<a href="http://www.amazon.com/Kikkerland-Hedgehog-Dryer-Balls-Set/dp/B005U9Y71Y/ref=sr_1_1?ie=UTF8&qid=1361198690&sr=8-1&keywords=hedgehog+dryer+balls" target="_blank"><img border="0" height="176" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhnw2mSsQONzBNrsCA_0O1ZdCPcB9ptXNSNWJgC7Owd70IDrgMhIONvhIMz1_RTKMxh45A1vv5zMrokggs487KMlWkXKeqZqwqXpotj7CJuVJbwBf2fH8HMlHBFsIuJyt0WfBwxpxSfcl03/s320/31tqsUksoKL._SX450_.jpg" width="320" /></a></div>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgdRk0EBWZwxQ8a2VLHCuKawvQk9AdiYjDrLT_doWxbAZSu85d7nOZCVER1jn3NokofQkxvLj8ahogEDS7cs6dESgajnPwOLtfygYFah3GcClEwczLC-m3XAOvkUIbPA1Na44pWHnb9OYag/s1600/IMG_2136.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="clear: right; float: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: 1em;"><img border="0" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgdRk0EBWZwxQ8a2VLHCuKawvQk9AdiYjDrLT_doWxbAZSu85d7nOZCVER1jn3NokofQkxvLj8ahogEDS7cs6dESgajnPwOLtfygYFah3GcClEwczLC-m3XAOvkUIbPA1Na44pWHnb9OYag/s320/IMG_2136.JPG" width="240" /></a><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh6saDodjI8xBOcFI_ioGqsumzCpDUGHa0U7UfPPzEfN_IW78IfAD1ydJghq1ydDaTnwCsUfwhWg3Kn1hdXaTY0nRu7383lWU498a30oRc_WrOsOp2VllA0uRmj3MuhTa6eR7aPwThOGyu-/s1600/IMG_2137.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh6saDodjI8xBOcFI_ioGqsumzCpDUGHa0U7UfPPzEfN_IW78IfAD1ydJghq1ydDaTnwCsUfwhWg3Kn1hdXaTY0nRu7383lWU498a30oRc_WrOsOp2VllA0uRmj3MuhTa6eR7aPwThOGyu-/s320/IMG_2137.JPG" width="240" /></a>I have been using dryer balls for about 3 years now, and I really can tell a difference. Our clothes dry much faster with dryer balls tumbling around, separating the damp items with their little "fingers." They seem to reduce static and soften the fabrics, as well. <span style="font-size: x-small;">(I have gone through two sets of dryer balls. The little nubs wear down after a while, so be sure to replace them to get the full effect!)</span><br />
I've been quite happy with cutting down on drying time <span style="font-size: x-small;">(and expense to run the dryer!).</span>.. and NOW, I am even happier when I get our clean, dry clothes, and little hedgehogs come tumbling out or little hedgehog eyes are peeping out at me through the clothing.<br />
OK, you can say, "simple minds, simple pleasures," if you'd like. I won't take offense. I think my new hedgehog dryer balls are very useful... and so darn cute!<br />
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<span style="font-style: italic;">Now, THAT's neat!</span>Bethhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/12887675399476057016noreply@blogger.com5tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5651833266469540822.post-76682997409726956932013-01-25T08:35:00.001-08:002013-01-25T08:36:49.471-08:00Day 133: Clever containers for the pantryLike many households, we have lots of little, random things floating
around in our pantry. Actually, they don't float at all, but they do
fall down between the wire shelves, get stuck behind (or under) other stored food
items or get completely lost and forgotten somewhere in the spaces we
can never see - <i>or reach</i>. For those pesky little things, little things
like seasoning mixes, soup packets, drink mixes and other pouches, snacks or small
bags of things, I have found that Clever Container's containers are
quite a clever solution!<br />
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjwY7JtwNKm7Dk_sohDXl5H6mX3a4wWQlj83NaLeGfLWnaCPRzXhINdtT8AFJ86-atLDO2B3AzGRjaHKtSUmt_YtcOlUMQTyc9VzBZYAgJVQUr9jSExfF6eIRkZyR00EvLMyhcHmX8vCGiY/s1600/photo(1).JPG" imageanchor="1" style="clear: right; float: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: 1em;"><img border="0" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjwY7JtwNKm7Dk_sohDXl5H6mX3a4wWQlj83NaLeGfLWnaCPRzXhINdtT8AFJ86-atLDO2B3AzGRjaHKtSUmt_YtcOlUMQTyc9VzBZYAgJVQUr9jSExfF6eIRkZyR00EvLMyhcHmX8vCGiY/s320/photo(1).JPG" width="240" /></a>I recently purchased 2 of these little cabinet organizers and put them to immediate use. Now my pesky pouches and packets are well behaved... and easy to find. AND... since they are all rounded up and in clear view, it makes it easier for me to see what I have... and what quick meal or snack I can whip up for kids or company!<br />
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<span style="font-style: italic;">Now, THAT's neat!</span> </div>
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<span style="font-style: italic;"></span>Bethhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/12887675399476057016noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5651833266469540822.post-26429593639985258912013-01-04T08:15:00.003-08:002013-06-14T05:45:05.823-07:00Day 132: The Dreaded Kitchen Drop-OffYou know that little space in your kitchen... the one that gets trashed by everything as soon as anyone comes home?!?! Yes, THAT one. No matter what you do to keep it clean, neat and orderly, somehow, candy wrappers, school papers, junk mail, bills, magazines, socks, jackets, toys and other odds and ends end up here. Well... one solution is to just trash everything! And believe me, I have been tempted to do this, MANY times! :)<br />
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The other option is to create a little "command center." If you have time (and energy... <i>and gumption</i>), you can purchase a nice, organizational wall hanger or box... hey, even a file holder works to sort through papers, and they have some decorative ones or fun ones to fit your decor!<br />
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Another simple, quick method to get those papers to cooperate is to get some clothespins, write some helpful labels on them, and just pinch all that stuff together until you have a moment to look through and sort everything!<br />
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgbP_mMOpPoDo2U2f23EV53XCELUmBSv7MxtpHyLH7JfCVcnGUL9olngaPGYSxCDGaeiIwZsxULd4CG8GQdkffeKjYdBGRkSCZYBQ86EnbPgPThfRtCa4lX4oiTu3Z5PrAPtsgLM4oLCa9Y/s1600/il_fullxfull.204306056.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="240" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgbP_mMOpPoDo2U2f23EV53XCELUmBSv7MxtpHyLH7JfCVcnGUL9olngaPGYSxCDGaeiIwZsxULd4CG8GQdkffeKjYdBGRkSCZYBQ86EnbPgPThfRtCa4lX4oiTu3Z5PrAPtsgLM4oLCa9Y/s320/il_fullxfull.204306056.jpg" width="320" /></a></div>
AND... of course, y'all know I love baskets and bins. But a few, and throw things in there so they are out of site but still easily accessible! <br />
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Finally, purchase some fun, useful dry erase or chalk panels so you can keep track of menus, phone numbers, to-do lists, appointments and events and still have room to write down a motivational quote or an "I love you because..." Uppercase Living offers so many wonderful options. Click <a href="http://bethalcazar.uppercaseliving.net/Category.m?CategoryId=356&CatalogId=DEFAULT" target="_blank">HERE</a> to see them, and order anytime, online! <br />
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<br />Bethhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/12887675399476057016noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5651833266469540822.post-31147092517264461692012-10-02T07:58:00.002-07:002012-10-02T07:58:29.245-07:00Day 131: Oh yes... I did<br />
I am somewhat of a sucker when it comes to fun, new cleaning/organizing products.... and as I was tootling around the other day on an online shopping website, I stumbled across something neat: the "Slipper Genie." <br />
These soft, colorful, fuzzy slippers are a neat freak's dream come true! Whenever my feet are cold, or whenever the floor has that not-been-mopped-lately look, I can slip these on <span style="font-size: x-small;">(with a pair of socks if it's REALLY cold</span>) and zip across the hardwood floors (or tile) in my home<span style="font-size: x-small;"> (and get a little exercise, too)</span>! As you can see, the bottoms of these clever foot covers are fluffy cleaning "fingers" that can grab dog fur and swipe up dirt and dust bunnies... while I am busy cleaning or organizing other things. Talk about multi-tasking! <br />
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My daughter thinks these slippers are pretty fun, so I might have to buy her a pair, too. <span style="font-size: x-small;"><i>(YES - dual cleaning action... or is that quadruple, since there are four feet involved?!?!!)</i></span> AND... since my little boy likes to copy just about everything his big sister does, I may end up with 3 of us, slip-sliding our way around the house.... all while banishing crumbs, hair and particles! YES - there are kid versions... adn they are super cute! (Oh, and the good thing is, the bottoms of these "mop flops" can velcro off, so you can toss them in the wash when you've been too busy cleaning floors!)<br />
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjhvCflqZkVw8bu3FrMFU6KIFrt6oMmVzXUGhnvvyqtC9Q_jTQcYO0p1Fm6Hx-jN3NaRDV05gW9wU_QwQBKMrk2Krtx7sGEteBjp7lhfI1XdGcQ6lmaEH4WeY3pqo66YBI-5-CQW2NFq5UU/s1600/Slipper-Genie-Kids_11154-l.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="213" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjhvCflqZkVw8bu3FrMFU6KIFrt6oMmVzXUGhnvvyqtC9Q_jTQcYO0p1Fm6Hx-jN3NaRDV05gW9wU_QwQBKMrk2Krtx7sGEteBjp7lhfI1XdGcQ6lmaEH4WeY3pqo66YBI-5-CQW2NFq5UU/s320/Slipper-Genie-Kids_11154-l.jpg" width="320" /></a><br />
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<span style="font-style: italic;">Now, THAT's neat!</span><br />
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<br />Bethhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/12887675399476057016noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5651833266469540822.post-63127317882016496212012-09-14T05:39:00.001-07:002012-09-14T05:45:24.680-07:00Day 130: Bread ties - who knew??!<br />
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh4LxsVU8pLVzwY8ufUXwd08NaMuJWgQ3LBUe4sLrAiqSi3lOS4LPkNoTAkJr6Wn6u8nWFctDyCfzqm46tOn09onUi-Xx3ofchG4eQlAoRdOMUvGRamY81pKiKKeQaMQ8_TTBqDUPTG1ccK/s1600/plastic_things.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="240" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh4LxsVU8pLVzwY8ufUXwd08NaMuJWgQ3LBUe4sLrAiqSi3lOS4LPkNoTAkJr6Wn6u8nWFctDyCfzqm46tOn09onUi-Xx3ofchG4eQlAoRdOMUvGRamY81pKiKKeQaMQ8_TTBqDUPTG1ccK/s320/plastic_things.jpg" width="320" /></a></div>
Plastic things. You know, the ones you find on bread bags? Some people call them "bread ties;" most people call them annoying! Every time you take one off to get a slice of bread, it disappears, and you end up just twisting the end of the bread bag and tucking it in on itself instead! I'm sure we have all misplaced many of these plastic bread ties or have just thrown them in the trash without a second thought. <i>Until now..</i>..<br />
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Anyone else ever get mad at the tape roll <i>(and at whoever used it last without folding a piece down</i>)? Sometimes you turn that sticky roll over and over and over again for who knows how long, not able to locate that darn end. And when you finally do find the end, you can't get the tape to unstick from itself, or the tape rips off into little shreds, and you end up wasting about 2 feet in the struggle!<br />
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Well... think back to the aforementioned bread ties. Yep; those little plastic annoyances can become useful tools... in a whole new way! Ready for this little tip from the neat freak cheat sheet? Just stick one of these bread ties (or two, if the tape is wide) on the end of the tape roll, and you have an automatic saver... and an instant starter for next time! <br />
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BRILLIANT!<br />
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<span style="font-style: italic;">Now, THAT's neat!</span> Bethhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/12887675399476057016noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5651833266469540822.post-42960105598619030172012-07-25T15:34:00.001-07:002012-07-25T15:36:28.833-07:00Day 129: Jewelry Jumble... no more!<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgu-_aatg_fjIeYfjHWvZ5adCHTKoxePjkcrGRpKmAuoedf44gp8jHV2WLVmvKU8Fyq7RXsusiqwsAeXuzsoEiDGWAQWSuEFGByyQ2jfc5jPN9vG06WnZoZnoCQ02sryMkN9j1v18XL1js0/s1600/IMG_0968.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="240" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgu-_aatg_fjIeYfjHWvZ5adCHTKoxePjkcrGRpKmAuoedf44gp8jHV2WLVmvKU8Fyq7RXsusiqwsAeXuzsoEiDGWAQWSuEFGByyQ2jfc5jPN9vG06WnZoZnoCQ02sryMkN9j1v18XL1js0/s320/IMG_0968.JPG" width="320" /></a></div>
You may remember a while back when I posted about a truly unusual - <i>and VERY neat</i> - <a href="http://getneater.blogspot.com/2012/01/day-112-little-black-dress.html" target="_blank">little black dress</a>.... a little black dress that's actually an organizer for jewelry! Well... I couldn't resist this adorable doo-dad. I put it on my "wish list," and my wonderful hubby bought it for my birthday!<br />
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Following is the saga of getting all my jewelry - and the jumbled, annoying heap of boxes and bags it had become - into tip-top shape and ready for my new, little black dress!<br />
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhzjU9716xhInK5Yy7IaClCJBideUr1tn7DhxXsO6TREWLw06Gr6t-WG0O06uyQkMXZdEwWsvWxFMtGNMuGmH6oKTcASN3A9t2LKtVXRNBtWq2dE2RnHZAgDd-esKDlfl1fD-GmHs7OfCSI/s1600/IMG_0967.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="clear: right; float: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: 1em;"><img border="0" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhzjU9716xhInK5Yy7IaClCJBideUr1tn7DhxXsO6TREWLw06Gr6t-WG0O06uyQkMXZdEwWsvWxFMtGNMuGmH6oKTcASN3A9t2LKtVXRNBtWq2dE2RnHZAgDd-esKDlfl1fD-GmHs7OfCSI/s320/IMG_0967.JPG" width="240" /></a></div>
First and foremost, here is the jewelry holder I <i>was</i> using. I was on the right track, with a convenient, hanging organizer on the back of my closet door... BUT this two-sided, pocket-loaded item did <u>not</u> have specific places for bracelets or necklaces. So, most of those bulkier items stayed in their boxes... and ended up in my sweater organizer!<br />
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I don't have a jewelry box, so the sweater organizer was the next best place. Everything was together... but everything was a mess. Any time I got any new jewelry, I just piled it on top of the other stuff! So, it looked like THIS!. :(<br />
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgleyyO8tHnUR-ed_5RDy-k9YKAUfwn5v8L5Pufll4Nhyphenhyphen77woliveT9ibfNp8les2ArRMK3eSqCv4TVWZ8Y8gJjzm2iyXYvhqmaMbSd7HLMpnFygl1Q55qQM6bWjeNmf07P0fcbIg65VEDx/s1600/IMG_0966.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgleyyO8tHnUR-ed_5RDy-k9YKAUfwn5v8L5Pufll4Nhyphenhyphen77woliveT9ibfNp8les2ArRMK3eSqCv4TVWZ8Y8gJjzm2iyXYvhqmaMbSd7HLMpnFygl1Q55qQM6bWjeNmf07P0fcbIg65VEDx/s320/IMG_0966.JPG" width="240" /></a></div>
The next step was to take everything out of the sweater organizer and spread it out on the bed. Here is the mass of boxes and bags. Goodness! <i>What a
disaster!</i> <span style="font-size: x-small;">(And quite an embarrassment for a neat freak!)</span> There was stuff in there that I hadn't seen in years... it was
just too buried underneath all the other jewelry boxes!<br />
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjQafAIcQDRoeXYqLKBvD0Z_kFHIKItIRnuISFhzypPaJnqU6IAH_GSrKWUlYNKsYj1V9qbnuLMi0Cs5c9veY1EyJTx0UxW5-gHupQ1FDie07xHdcpK24LTc8rQAivJdMmkkDEkLEEvIOjv/s1600/IMG_0971.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjQafAIcQDRoeXYqLKBvD0Z_kFHIKItIRnuISFhzypPaJnqU6IAH_GSrKWUlYNKsYj1V9qbnuLMi0Cs5c9veY1EyJTx0UxW5-gHupQ1FDie07xHdcpK24LTc8rQAivJdMmkkDEkLEEvIOjv/s320/IMG_0971.JPG" width="240" /></a>I sorted through everything and tried to put items in places where they would be convenient and neat and where they would make sense to me... with "popular" earrings and necklaces near the top and less-often-used or larger items near the bottom. <br />
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjT6BBLW7UQufZxxRMmo5BUMODb5NtGZEzqsXFzNRVSQaybVCYjCRrCVjSq74wEgLDpJpAxnNQUJiaXwlfNyGolQVqqvj9IKjKJLH3wu0krE-qU6gMJmuXOVgfxrFiYJ0o9Ze3pbKhkMgWr/s1600/IMG_0970.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjT6BBLW7UQufZxxRMmo5BUMODb5NtGZEzqsXFzNRVSQaybVCYjCRrCVjSq74wEgLDpJpAxnNQUJiaXwlfNyGolQVqqvj9IKjKJLH3wu0krE-qU6gMJmuXOVgfxrFiYJ0o9Ze3pbKhkMgWr/s320/IMG_0970.JPG" width="240" /></a></div>
I worked this method the same way on the flip side of the dress for all my necklaces and bracelets, and I tried to keep sets close together, as well! Everything looks super cute and super organized now! I just need to put it in my closet. <span style="font-size: x-small;"> (BTW: I did keep the other organizer with some other jewelry items in it; I just placed the organizer behind my clothes instead of on the door!)</span><br />
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg90jhbMOp2Tw51T7FR00UEX2aIOPWE7H6-u51WZ8Yups1jNRRV0343BbILUYVsFkCwg-rZnU-OXfi6o_uRT6UL5zw5XvXhZTHj98L0atqbT4h6JiSwWKIQsR3c90F4iPJc368_-duGuoDW/s1600/IMG_0973.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="clear: right; float: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: 1em;"><img border="0" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg90jhbMOp2Tw51T7FR00UEX2aIOPWE7H6-u51WZ8Yups1jNRRV0343BbILUYVsFkCwg-rZnU-OXfi6o_uRT6UL5zw5XvXhZTHj98L0atqbT4h6JiSwWKIQsR3c90F4iPJc368_-duGuoDW/s320/IMG_0973.JPG" width="240" /></a>I only had a few boxes and random items left over from the massive clean-up, and those went back into the sweater organizer. And one important item I kept here, mostly for convenience, is my watch. You can see it there on the bottom left. I wear it every day, and it was just easier to have it here! I can slip it on while I gaze at my lovely, little black dress of bobbles and bangles! ;)<br />
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<span style="font-style: italic;">Now, THAT's neat!</span> <br />
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<br />Bethhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/12887675399476057016noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5651833266469540822.post-41679183893798637902012-07-11T14:07:00.001-07:002012-07-11T14:10:31.287-07:00Day 128: Beautiful, neat fridge<div class="" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhdEt3VHEQZmLqGRHuTYgvcoyecMVBZMu-28hv_BMRTj51EfeGfcFwQU-JAWvsZ7Pxm84UCQqCfCV70JE4qoFhq_pB9h60T0hL2FuRSRiSsikDRU_78xxArBrvINDNykhdCIREqAGvb-v5C/s1600/IMG_0869.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="clear: right; float: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: 1em;"><img border="0" height="240" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhdEt3VHEQZmLqGRHuTYgvcoyecMVBZMu-28hv_BMRTj51EfeGfcFwQU-JAWvsZ7Pxm84UCQqCfCV70JE4qoFhq_pB9h60T0hL2FuRSRiSsikDRU_78xxArBrvINDNykhdCIREqAGvb-v5C/s320/IMG_0869.JPG" width="320" /></a>Ok... so I have talked about cleaning <a href="http://getneater.blogspot.com/2010/05/day-42-forget-about-top-of-fridge.html" target="_blank">BEHIND and UNDER</a> the refrigerator before, but beyond throwing away anything <a href="http://getneater.blogspot.com/2010/02/day-10-refrigerator-refurbish.html" target="_blank">green or growing</a>, I have not addressed cleaning INSIDE it. Of course, as a neat freak, I am <i>always</i> cleaning up crumbs and spills with cleaning wipes. But, this time around, I decided to remove EVERYTHING... and get this darn ice box in order!</div>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgrJ7N6r8Z4-BlI-cYDPq7zKKzGtHF0QhyphenhyphenvBtArpW0bNRTgP-tsli_XVd_R_8SsuZr242vLxYcp7My97VN637EvZCwwktjBES5wa1n_NwQSIaBsaNyhGc4QhGDL4TNNJJvNEoT3cr_2OPi0/s1600/IMG_0870.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="240" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgrJ7N6r8Z4-BlI-cYDPq7zKKzGtHF0QhyphenhyphenvBtArpW0bNRTgP-tsli_XVd_R_8SsuZr242vLxYcp7My97VN637EvZCwwktjBES5wa1n_NwQSIaBsaNyhGc4QhGDL4TNNJJvNEoT3cr_2OPi0/s320/IMG_0870.JPG" width="320" /></a> You can see in this photo that the spills and stains weren't <b>terrible</b>... but they were still there! <i>Gross</i>! And these goops and blobs, of course, can cause your fridge to smell a little funky. (I'm just glad I decided to do this before grocery shopping! The fridge was already a bit packed, and there was food spread out all over my kitchen counters!) Once all the food items were out, I removed all the trays and drawers, washed them and wiped them down with cleaning wipes. <i>Ah, fresh, lemony clean!</i></div>
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<a href="http://fridgecoaster.com/" style="clear: right; float: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: 1em;" target="_blank"><img border="0" height="240" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgByZ-ZozmgQwGjlPF3hPgP5dgzWbuESZwNlV3GeHRUvtfkASl2ywGNcmhyphenhyphenn94DQPpos22x3YzgiNt8Bo67Xitl_dhthAnWTbErNb33zzUA8ONXLt0NNKVm85T5f7tBVzAi68q4gPD4YDTN/s320/IMG_0871.JPG" width="320" /></a>OK.... I'll admit it. I sort of had ulterior motives with this whole fridge clean-out thing! About a month ago, I spotted yet another neat product that I knew I had to try: <a href="http://fridgecoaster.com/" target="_blank">Fridge Coasters</a>. What the heck is a fridge coaster, you may ask? Well, simply put, it's a decorative, absorbent cardboard-thick liner that goes in your refrigerator! There are super-cute patterns and colors (gray, blue, pink and yellow) and different sizes for different needs, but I knew I wanted gray and a mix of patterns. <span style="font-size: x-small;"> (Hey all these patterns are so IN right now!)</span> I was extremely fortunate to receive a "fridge pack" from Fridge Coasters.... BUT, my hubby knew I had been talking about these handy things, and he gave me a "fridge pack" as a birthday present! YAY! TWO whole fridge packs were just enough for me to cover every space! All I did was line up the coaster with my shelves and drawers and figure out how to size them. I removed some perforated pieces, and I cut down some others. It's super easy. No real thinking involved! :)</div>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh5AvT31rdauODZJKPi2kHWmenj8jKuE4e660J4hqQDbGoNKaQ7u1POoTFTqpEqNL87Y7_s6uOyzXKy504V8ozwXNWNwc-B0G6HKKcUD43B4GR97pOm454LW5TDdv-wu8INCHKyf-cg-c0M/s1600/IMG_0873.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh5AvT31rdauODZJKPi2kHWmenj8jKuE4e660J4hqQDbGoNKaQ7u1POoTFTqpEqNL87Y7_s6uOyzXKy504V8ozwXNWNwc-B0G6HKKcUD43B4GR97pOm454LW5TDdv-wu8INCHKyf-cg-c0M/s320/IMG_0873.JPG" width="240" /></a>These photos show how incredibly cute -and neat - my super-clean refrigerator door turned out, with my gray fridge coasters dressing up a once all-white, dull bunch of bins, and how dapper and tidy the drawers and shelves look! I love it... almost enough to NOT return the food.... <i>Hmmmmmm</i>.<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjNtDuEJzL7Xhex95Q8cDkCQirS-ClUSGYU-SV0639bXCV25HAAIjj7U04-QqGyZ3VTPrfr5WDTygCcM3Tj5oM4TxHRc-l8O_nzz_jd8Ka7fvBmJkyYrVxaObZUR1FsD29AtqFA4VIKWerP/s1600/IMG_0874.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjNtDuEJzL7Xhex95Q8cDkCQirS-ClUSGYU-SV0639bXCV25HAAIjj7U04-QqGyZ3VTPrfr5WDTygCcM3Tj5oM4TxHRc-l8O_nzz_jd8Ka7fvBmJkyYrVxaObZUR1FsD29AtqFA4VIKWerP/s320/IMG_0874.JPG" width="240" /></a></div>
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Since a refrigerator with no food makes no sense, I went ahead and reloaded my food items (sans a few expired or unneeded things), and now we can enjoy a clean, organized fridge that stores food... <b><i>in style!</i></b></div>
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<span style="font-style: italic;">Now, THAT's neat!</span></div>
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<span style="font-size: xx-small;">NOTE: Fridge Coasters supplied me with one pack of "fridge coasters," but they did not pay me to say any of the above. Those are all my thoughts!</span></div>Bethhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/12887675399476057016noreply@blogger.com11tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5651833266469540822.post-14299678451274485972012-07-02T13:27:00.000-07:002012-07-02T13:49:09.933-07:00Day 127: Clever Travel Tool<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
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<a href="http://www.etsy.com/listing/99328324/travel-towel-roll?ref=sr_gallery_20&ga_search_query=travel+towel&ga_view_type=gallery&ga_ship_to=ZZ&ga_min=0&ga_max=0&ga_search_type=handmade" target="_blank"><img border="0" height="240" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjzd0FuUNtBzeE36MXa1em-Jt-CmW9jhrrQ2Yq37m-k5NcKimF8bjnsjqNTQK8VG_zOziN2l_f51_HjMopLW1REyedJXYEcrB3KkUahDujB_tvUUUOZd-V8sXt6nB0Ll1rUw42FmqA0JDsU/s320/il_570xN.335267118.jpg" width="320" /> </a></div>
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<span style="font-size: xx-small;">Photo from </span><span style="font-size: xx-small;"><a href="http://www.etsy.com/shop/breaboutique?ref=seller_info">breaboutique
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<a href="http://www.etsy.com/listing/102158697/washcloth-travel-pouch?ref=sr_gallery_16&ga_search_query=travel+towel&ga_view_type=gallery&ga_ship_to=ZZ&ga_min=0&ga_max=0&ga_search_type=handmade" target="_blank"><img border="0" height="213" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhXxUG8N7m2NihaB3Pc0sn2dzDrN7INyvZpozO97aU1f9MmYbtaUyVVf66vtCP8NuBz-ErIAFFUmn4qTyXqgUTJiNOitF5WF_GZrlEICECVGQjDIYRz70BLjp8VLt3t26_Cd1sUaleAkS1t/s320/il_570xN.345642104.jpg" width="320" /> </a></div>
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<span style="font-size: xx-small;">Photo from </span><span style="font-size: xx-small;"><a href="http://www.etsy.com/shop/hannahsbowtique?ref=seller_info">hannahsbowtique
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SO.... I spotted this clever, little washcloth/towel wrap on Etsy the other day, and I <i>wished</i> I had seen it just a little bit sooner, so I could have used this ingenious little tool on a recent trip!<br />
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These tidy, terry travel pouches are just SO darn neat! I usually just store hair products, tooth brushes and other like items in a
1-gallon ziplock bag; but they almost ALWAYS end up soggy, sticky and gross. Well, this soft pocket-thing is perfect for packing all those "messies, leakies and drippies" for any occasion away from home. Best of all: after using this wrap, just toss it in the wash when you return home,
and it will clean up nicely and be fresh and ready for your next trip.<br />
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If you're handy with a sewing machine, just get a large washcloth or a hand towel, fold one edge up a bit, and sew in some different sized pockets. If you're not into sewing, don't have a sewing machine or just don't have the time or energy to figure it out, then look up "travel towels" on Etsy (or click the photos, above, for these fun styles)!<br />
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<span style="font-style: italic;">Now, THAT's neat!</span> <br />
<br />Bethhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/12887675399476057016noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5651833266469540822.post-63909866297336263592012-06-15T06:27:00.001-07:002012-06-15T06:32:54.255-07:00Day 126: Clever Scent SpotDo you want your bathroom to smell lovely, without burning out all of your candles or using up air fresheners? <span style="font-size: x-small;"> (Don't get me wrong, I LOVE using lovely-scented everythings in our WCs, but sometimes I am not there to refresh, plug in, spray or light!)</span> Well, here is a clever, little tip, straight from the "Neat Freak Cheat Sheet." Just put those scented oils to use!<br />
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Every time you load up a new roll of toilet paper <span style="font-size: x-small;">(and you know it will be you, since apparently no one else in the house knows how to reload those oh-so-complicated TP tubes!)</span>, add a drop or two of your favorite scents. Every time someone spins the roll, the scent will be released! Simple, right! ;)<br />
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<span style="font-style: italic;">Now, THAT's neat!</span><span style="font-family: "Book Antiqua"; font-size: 11pt;"> </span><span style="font-family: "Book Antiqua"; font-size: 11pt;"></span></div>Bethhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/12887675399476057016noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5651833266469540822.post-68125996971530420022012-06-06T09:48:00.001-07:002012-06-06T09:48:56.285-07:00Day 125: Washing the Dish Washer<style>
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<span style="font-family: "Book Antiqua"; font-size: 11pt;">We’ve broached the topic of <a href="http://getneater.blogspot.com/2010/09/day-59-do-you-clean-your-washing.html" target="_blank">washing the washing machine</a>, which I never in all my life thought would be necessary. So, of course, another device that doesn’t
<u>seem</u> to need cleaning would be – <b><i>the</i> <i>dishwasher</i></b>. I mean, it’s running all the time, cleaning dishes,
so you’d think it would remain sparkling, sanitized and perfect. Right!?!? I suppose if we ran on that theory, then the shower and the tub would never need cleaning, either. <i>Yuck</i>.
So, if your dishwasher looks or smells a little funky, just give these three simple
steps a try! You can get a cleaner, gunk-free dishwasher, and you may improve the overall
life of this much-needed kitchen appliance, too!</span></div>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgtisxWaeroZlYj2djRKD8cTFcM6rlTfnjML1HaReClP_g37G3lkA-NJBU-A7OHt3byuSt-sI8nn4H7zzI-JXGOHa2mOMGO2oIc6dltoCMSbvwHft7zlfzRy9VQoH-C2sleAv-sKO9BRUC9/s1600/IMG_0689.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="clear: right; float: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: 1em;"><img border="0" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgtisxWaeroZlYj2djRKD8cTFcM6rlTfnjML1HaReClP_g37G3lkA-NJBU-A7OHt3byuSt-sI8nn4H7zzI-JXGOHa2mOMGO2oIc6dltoCMSbvwHft7zlfzRy9VQoH-C2sleAv-sKO9BRUC9/s320/IMG_0689.JPG" width="240" /></a></div>
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<span style="font-family: "Book Antiqua"; font-size: 11pt;"><b>FIRST</b>: </span><span style="font-family: "Book Antiqua"; font-size: 11pt;">Remove the
bottom rack and examine the drain area; make sure there are no nasty food bits
or random chunks of stuff that could block the drain, cause damage to the pump
or even scratch your dishes! When I unscrewed the dishwasher spray arm (white thing in my hand) from the bottom of our dishwasher, I found a small, sharp (very clean) pairing knife lodged by the pump/motor (gray thing). That's probably not a good thing... ;) </span></div>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEixePDXmnpeatx_sCkknb5QcxcmrU6FWaWoVol1XrY4DAdiVHPIam1AbCOK8hJT0AkEemJ3IAGLbYWoz7R24hQwEXRiaYuczxAianaLRja35p5I1Oy1rHw8T4mOxqMpHQj2ugqoUQp_ckiq/s1600/IMG_0690.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEixePDXmnpeatx_sCkknb5QcxcmrU6FWaWoVol1XrY4DAdiVHPIam1AbCOK8hJT0AkEemJ3IAGLbYWoz7R24hQwEXRiaYuczxAianaLRja35p5I1Oy1rHw8T4mOxqMpHQj2ugqoUQp_ckiq/s320/IMG_0690.JPG" width="240" /></a><span style="font-family: "Book Antiqua"; font-size: 11pt;"><b>SECOND</b>: </span><span style="font-family: "Book Antiqua"; font-size: 11pt;">Place
a dishwasher-safe cup filled with plain
white vinegar on the top rack of the dishwasher. Using the hottest water
available, run the dishwasher through a cycle. (Except for the cup of vinegar,
the dishwasher will be empty.) The
vinegar will help sanitize your dishwasher and will help remove any musty odors.<br style="mso-special-character: line-break;" />
</span><span style="font-family: "Book Antiqua"; font-size: 11pt;"></span></div>
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<b><span style="font-family: "Book Antiqua"; font-size: 11pt;">THIRD</span></b><span style="font-family: "Book Antiqua"; font-size: 11pt;">:
When the cycle is complete, sprinkle a cupful of baking soda around the bottom of your dishwasher, and run it through
a short but complete cycle using the hottest water. The baking soda will help
freshen the smell of your dishwasher and will brighten up the look of the
inside of the appliance by removing stains.</span></div>
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<span style="font-family: "Book Antiqua"; font-size: 11pt;">Now you can use your dishwasher again, as normal... but hopefully it's much cleaner... and safer!</span></div>
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<span style="font-style: italic;">Now, THAT's neat!</span><span style="font-family: "Book Antiqua"; font-size: 11pt;"> </span><span style="font-family: "Book Antiqua"; font-size: 11pt;"></span></div>Bethhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/12887675399476057016noreply@blogger.com3tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5651833266469540822.post-4206961369231100982012-05-28T06:06:00.001-07:002012-05-28T06:09:05.118-07:00Day 124: Overpower the power cords<a href="http://www.countryliving.com/" target="_blank"><i>Country Living</i></a> magazine posted a super-neat idea for wrangling up all those tangly, high-tech charging cords from cell phones, MP3 players, PDAs, cameras, etc.... while repurposing a low-tech shoe box! And I just had to share this with all of you! <i><span style="font-size: x-small;">(And now I am on a hunt for extra-large eyelits... and you will soon see why!)</span></i><br />
<br />
Just so you know, I am kind of torn when it comes to shoe boxes. On one hand, they are nice places for shoes to go when they are not on someone's feet, but shoe boxes can take up a <u>lot</u> of room, and, let's face it, how often are the people in your home putting shoes back in their shoe boxes after or between uses!?!? That's why shoe boxes most often end up in the recycling bin at our house, unless my daughter has some creative craft project in mind or we need to make a diorama! :)<br />
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At any rate, we all know how much more "plugged in" we all are nowadays. And if you don't have a handy gadget like this for multiple USB ports and regular plugs, then those cords can easily become a bit of a nightmare!<br />
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhJ2gBXd5K__Kl8fGaBUtni1gGYr8RoEKG8bTNBY_J3schX7-vkNLRiFS_A4gY_Nla82llcZ5O-3rg-1mWv9Kufv27ZI6Ipjx0CAKJy4xGkj-6lk0dvUt8aYXcZZcwOC997vtoONFdcRtMB/s1600/photo.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="240" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhJ2gBXd5K__Kl8fGaBUtni1gGYr8RoEKG8bTNBY_J3schX7-vkNLRiFS_A4gY_Nla82llcZ5O-3rg-1mWv9Kufv27ZI6Ipjx0CAKJy4xGkj-6lk0dvUt8aYXcZZcwOC997vtoONFdcRtMB/s320/photo.JPG" width="320" /></a></div>
Where do you plug them in? How do you store them? How do you keep them from taking over a kitchen counter, nightstand or desk? Well, that little, white Belkin hub in the outlet in our kitchen certainly helps with the first question. But here are steps to create an awesome (and lovely) cord storage/organizer and tackle those other important questions! <b><br /></b><b></b><br />
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgtzg3daxzJ3H5YEP050-25IT661Ia0c0s7iUhXW0KTTtsoxe1gfqHBd_rm8Ihc6KfHC6UFchr71TSPcKYYzFg-JhASlK4o4d6YiX8em_imFdlipQ9dwykqDAJabfZ-r82cG5qkB2q7dGE5/s1600/39195459226681685_hK3u45wm_f.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgtzg3daxzJ3H5YEP050-25IT661Ia0c0s7iUhXW0KTTtsoxe1gfqHBd_rm8Ihc6KfHC6UFchr71TSPcKYYzFg-JhASlK4o4d6YiX8em_imFdlipQ9dwykqDAJabfZ-r82cG5qkB2q7dGE5/s320/39195459226681685_hK3u45wm_f.jpg" width="250" /></a></div>
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<b>STEP 1:</b> Find and empty out a clean, sturdy shoebox. Measure and cut wallpaper, heavy-duty wrapping paper, scrapbook paper
or decorative fabric to the dimensions, wrapping the top and bottom
pieces separately. Secure the material or paper with spray adhesive. (You can also use Mod Podge or other glues, but spray adhesive is AWESOME for projects like this!)<br />
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<b>STEP 2:</b> On one side of the box, measure and mark placements
for four, evenly spaced eyelet holes. Make the first hole about 3 inches
in from the box's edge. Cut eyelet holes with an X-Acto knife. Repeat on
the other side, aligning the holes so the cords can cross through the box.<br />
<br />
<b>STEP 3:</b> Purchase an extra-large eyelet kit from a hardware store,
and fit the pieces using the manufacturer's directions as a guide.<br />
<br />
<b>STEP 4: </b>Plug in your cords, feed
the wires through both sets of holes and close the lid; recharge your
gadgets.<br />
<br />
<b>{{{{SAFETY TIP</b><i>: Keep electrical devices such as plugs and power strips outside the shoebox, to avoid risk of heating up or fire}}}} </i><br />
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Now, go to it! You have the power to overpower the power cords in your household! ;)<br />
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<span style="font-style: italic;">Now, THAT's neat!</span></div>Bethhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/12887675399476057016noreply@blogger.com0