A week today will be Mother’s Day, and many of us are undecided as to what special gift to give our Mothers. Mother’s day is a celebration to all Mother’s to say thank you for all that you have done and for being that special person that we could always turn to anytime we needed advice, wisdom or a shoulder to lean on. So what do you get your Mother this year for Mother’s day? Although flowers are always nice, here are a few unique ideas that you can do for you Mother on Mother’s Day!
1. Second Set of Hand’s gift certificate – I couldn’t go without mentioning that Second Set of Hands provides gift certificates. Let your mother decide which service she would like, whether it is virtual assistance, home or office organization, errand running, personal shopping, downsizing assistance, etc. We rarely say no to a request, so whatever you mother wants, we will be more than happy to help her in any way we can!
Gift Certificates
2. Scrapbooking – Create a Scrapbook. What a wonderful way to have a keepsake picture made into a beautiful piece of art. You can purchase scrapbooking materials at local craft stores or some of the big box stores. You can also use websites like Shutterfly or Moleskin to create your book.
via: www.scrapbook.com
3. Family Tree – Surprise you Mother with a family tree. This may be more time consuming but if you have the time, what a wonderful way to have your mother reminisce about her family. Try to get old photos of as many family members as you can and put the photos where the names are. It will turn out to be quite a masterpiece and a conversational piece at the same time.
4. Sweets – Saying Happy Mother’s Day with a special cake, cupcakes or cookies are always a nice treat. Besides going to your local grocery store, you can always try something new and exciting by special ordering from one of your local bakeries. Sweet Clementine’s is one of Ottawa’s finest bakeries that specialize in custom order sweets for events and occasions. You can check out their facebook page for more pictures of their amazing treats!
5. Just Ask! – Don’t be afraid to ask your mother what she would like, or what she would like to do for Mother’s day. You may be surprised by her request. Some mothers may want to go to the spa, or out to lunch while other may just want to go for a walk, or drive by their old neighbourhood where they once grew up. It is her day, so make it special!
I hope all you Moms have a wonderful Mother’s Day! If any of you want to share what your plans are for that day, or what you ended up doing, please feel free. I would love to hear from you!
https://www.secondsetofhands.ca/wp-content/uploads/2014/05/Mothers-Day1.jpg334500Kathy McEwanhttp://www.secondsetofhands.ca/wp-content/uploads/2017/12/logo-800x267.pngKathy McEwan2014-05-04 21:16:172018-01-30 18:34:51Mother's Day Gift Ideas
Turn all your clothes hangers backwards and after you use an item, hang it back the right way. After a certain length of time, normally a year or two at the most, if your hanger is still turned backwards, time to get rid of that item. Make sure you write down the date you turned your hangers backwards. The 1st of a month is an easy day to start. So what do you think? Do you have items that you wonder, ” When was the last time I wore this?”
https://www.secondsetofhands.ca/wp-content/uploads/2014/05/Get-Rid-of-Old-Clothes.jpg526296Kathy McEwanhttp://www.secondsetofhands.ca/wp-content/uploads/2017/12/logo-800x267.pngKathy McEwan2014-05-04 15:34:462018-01-30 18:35:45Determine what clothes you are not wearing!
Keep business cards out of sight and organized by putting sheet metal on the inside of one of your kitchen doors and use magnets to hold the business cards. You can also use this area to add a note pad, grocery list, a to-do list etc. An alternate choice could be corkboard and pins. So let’s get organized!
https://www.secondsetofhands.ca/wp-content/uploads/2014/05/Appointments-and-Business-Cards.jpg514403Kathy McEwanhttp://www.secondsetofhands.ca/wp-content/uploads/2017/12/logo-800x267.pngKathy McEwan2014-05-04 12:20:492018-01-30 18:36:30Appointments and Business Cards
What a great way to cover up cat litter! I saw these two Litter Boxes on e-bay but have seen them on other sites as well. Which one do you like best and would you use them? Source: ebay. Name of products not known
Now that the warmer weather is around the corner and I can’t wait to get into my flip flops, what do you think of this DIY idea for flat shoes and flip flops?
I was able to drop off a large number of bags for donation to the Shepherds of Good Hope (serving the poor and the homeless) thanks to a very generous client that is downsizing. They were thrilled when they saw how many bags there were, and thanks to my client, there will be a lot of happy people. What a pleasure to work with such a kind and generous client!
I was given this cute box full of chocolates for Easter. Thought the box was so cute, I am now using it as a holder for my office desk. The power of recycling!! Thanks Emma you are awesome!
Moving can be a very stressful time, but add downsizing to the situation, and it can be even more stressful. Whether you are an empty nester, senior, or someone who is in a 3 bedroom condo moving to a studio apartment, there are lots to consider when downsizing. Here are 8 Top Downsizing Tips designed to make the process easier.
1. Make a list of all the big items that you really want to keep and then evaluate your wants versus your needs. Your list should contain items that you feel you really want to keep, but then go back over it and decide if there is anything on that list that you really do not need. If you are able to cut back on your list, that means less packing, less items to move and more living space at your new home.
2. Start going through your personal belongings at least 3 months before your move. Don’t wait until the last minute. Take an hour each day, or a half day per week and go through those packed closets, drawers or cupboards. Kitchen utensils, mixing bowls, and Tupperware are areas you can tackle early and won’t mind letting go. If you have lots, keep what is necessary. The garage is another area that you can focus on. If you are downsizing to a condo or retirement home, you will not need the snow blower, lawn mower, gardening tools etc.
3. If you are feeling overwhelmed, then focus in one area. Downsizing can be very emotional and overwhelming. If you have the feeling of not knowing where to start, then start with one room, one corner, one drawer, one closet, one cupboard etc. Once you are done in that area, you can move on to the next. It takes time but you will get through it.
4. Let go of specialized items that are rarely used. If you collect items that are rarely used and are often kept in storage, now is the time to let them go or perhaps keep one of those special items. For example, Christmas hand towels or glassware. Instead replace them with year round glassware and hand towels.
5. Recycle, donate, sell, or if you have to, put in the garbage. Only put items in the garbage that are broken or that are of no use to anyone else. Auctioning off your items is an option if you have several items, or calling consignment stores and antique dealers to see if they would be interested in your items. If you want to give your items away, you could have an Open House for friends and family members and let them know you are giving away certain items. Don’t feel offended if they do not want your older furniture or knickknacks. Another option would be to donate your items to your local charities such as Salvation Army, Value Village, or Women’s Shelters.
6. Not sure what to keep? Ask! If you are having a hard time deciding what to keep and what to let go, then ask a second party. Your friend or family member will be honest with you and let you know if they think you will ever use that item again.
7. Ask for room measurements of your new home. Ask the landlord or real estate agent for the measurements of the rooms in your new home. Draw a floor plan of the items you will be using. This is the best way to get an idea of what size furniture you should use. If moving to a retirement home, have a family member help you with the measurements.
8. Use color coded stickers or numbers when packing. When I bought my first home, I put numbers on the bedrooms, and numbered my packing boxes with the corresponding bedroom numbers. I remember the movers saying how easy it was for them to do the move and it was easy for me as well. I used numbering for just the bedrooms, but you can use it for all rooms. Another option is to use colour coded stickers.
Check back for more tips and useful information!
Bye for now,
Kathy
Owner, Second Set of Hands
B.A., Professional Organizer and Moving Specialist
Member of the Canadian Organizers in Canada and the Institute of Challenging Disorganization
It was a family members birthday recently (my one and only sibling), and at the very last minute, I found myself without a birthday card for her. It was then that I realized that I better practice what I preach. Although I did have some cards on hand, they were not organized and therefore I was left scrambling at the last minute. Well I am glad to say I shouldn’t have that problem anymore! Yippee!
I went shopping and bought myself a cute decorative box. Luckily, I brought a greeting card with me to measure because buying a box that was the right size was actually harder than I thought.
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I added a oval shaped sticker and the words Greeting Cards using sticker lettering.
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I added a sunflower for colour, but you can add any decorations you like, or keep it simple with just the Greeting Cards label
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I bought a large assortment of greeting cards and separated them with labels. The labels were made using card stock and stickers. I placed plastic behind the stickers for added durability. By the way, I was pressed for time, so I did not use my printer to print off labels which may have looked nicer than the hand written versions. However, our cards should be hand written and not signature stamped, so I guess there is nothing wrong with hand writing the labels as well. Some might say it looks more personable.
As you can see, the above picture shows two different styles of labels. I am sure you can find other styles as well. I chose the one on the left, however, I am not sure why as I usually go for the more simple or modern look.
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I am now ready for the next time I will be needing a greeting card. Does it ever feel good to be this organized!
You too can be this organized. Take an afternoon one day and make one!
If you would like one of these boxes but don’t think you have the time to make one, then feel free to contact me. I would be more than happy to make one for you. They would make a perfect birthday gift, a gift for a senior citizen, or anyone else that has a hard time getting out to a store to buy greeting cards.
Bye for now,
Kathy
Kathy McEwan is a professional organizer and member of the Professional Organizers of Canada.
Second Set of Hands is a concierge and personal assistant service that provides errand running, personal shopping, home and office organization and just about any service that is legal, ethical and moral.
Contact Second Set of Hands today via email if you would like to subscribe to our promotions and get our blog sent directly to your inbox. Also, feel free to contact us for a free no obligation quote, or if you have any questions. We would be more than happy to help!
https://www.secondsetofhands.ca/wp-content/uploads/2014/05/Greeting-Card-Box.jpg281500Kathy McEwanhttp://www.secondsetofhands.ca/wp-content/uploads/2017/12/logo-800x267.pngKathy McEwan2014-05-04 09:34:032018-01-30 18:42:23Greeting Cards Box - So Easy to Make and So Organized!
Do you have an old tv armoire that you do not use anymore and thinking of selling it or giving it away? If so, after reading this blog you may want to reconsider. There are many ways of refurbishing old armoires into functioning spaces!
If you do not have a tv armoire, and would like one, you may want to check out your local consignment shop. Armoires are often being dropped off at consignment stores, and have been, ever since the beginning of flat screen televisions.
Check out the following 6 amazing transformations of tv armoires!
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This Linen Closet is Fresh and Clean! Love it!
via countryliving.com
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Store crafts in this old tv armoire! Close the doors to keep it looking clean and tidy!
via twopeasinabucket.com
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This office is fun and stylish! Love the addition of wallpaper!
This bar is classy and functional! Add a mirror, porcelain shelf, wine rack shelf, and stemware hangers!
via ths.gardenweb.com
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This kids area is practical and unique! The chalkboard paint on the doors adds character and kids love it!
via kidspacestuff.com
These are just a few ideas of how you can refurbish your tv armoires into functioning spaces. If you don’t have a kitchen pantry, you can always use your tv armoire for added kitchen storage. Or you can use a tv armoire as a clothes wardrobe. Add a pole and hang clothes. Use the drawers for clothes, belts, scarves and jewelry.
https://www.secondsetofhands.ca/wp-content/uploads/2014/05/Organizing-Armoires.jpg600450Kathy McEwanhttp://www.secondsetofhands.ca/wp-content/uploads/2017/12/logo-800x267.pngKathy McEwan2014-05-04 09:04:202018-01-30 18:43:26Organizing With Old TV Armoires! Amazing Transformations!
Do you find it difficult to find items in your dresser drawers? Do you find it stressful and time-consuming when you are in a hurry and you can’t find your favorite item? Have you ever tried to open your drawer to find it crammed packed and hard to open? Well you are not alone! The good news is that there are quick, easy and inexpensive ways organize your drawers.
Take for example the spring loaded drawer dividers by Real Organized:
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Or the box organizers by Garnityr:
These two items are inexpensive and can be purchased for less than $20.00.
BEFORE AND AFTER
Check out the before and after pictures below using a set of 6 drawer boxes.
BEFORE
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AFTER
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DRAWER ORGANIZER THAT COST NO MONEY AT ALL!!!
Here is a great tip for teenagers or anyone who would like to organize their drawers without spending a penny!
Use cardboard boxes!
Yup, that’s right! Cardboard boxes. My daughter found a few boxes in our recycle bin and cut them up to size. Check out how she organized her make-up drawer without spending a penny on any organizing products!
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Check back for more tips and educational information and feel free to share any ideas or comments.
Bye for now.
Kathy
Kathy McEwan is a Professional Organizer and a member of the Canadian Organizers of Canada. Kathy will not only help you de-clutter and organize your home or office but will also help you balance your lifestyle. Being the proud owner of Second Set of Hands, Kathy provides full concierge services in Ottawa and surrounding areas which include errand running, personal shopping, Home Watch services and so much more.
https://www.secondsetofhands.ca/wp-content/uploads/2014/05/Drawer-Organizer.jpg168300Kathy McEwanhttp://www.secondsetofhands.ca/wp-content/uploads/2017/12/logo-800x267.pngKathy McEwan2014-05-04 00:25:152018-01-30 18:44:18Quick, Easy and Inexpensive Ways to Organize Your Dresser Drawers
It is the beginning of a new year and now is a good time to start thinking about how you can become organized for year 2014 and after.
Here are 5 Tips on How to Start the New Year off Right by Being Organized!
1. If you don’t already have one, buy a 2014 daily organizer or use an electronic one. Myself, I still prefer the old fashion way of using the soft copy planner that is big enough to write appointments, meetings, and important information in. Most planners have a section that you can add phone numbers and other important information as well. Although some people keep their contact information in their electronic devices, I tend to use the soft copy calendar for important phone numbers in addition to my cell phone because if anything were to happen to my cell phone, I would be lost without the information. Get organized early and fill in your calendar with all your important information as soon as possible.
2. Keep pens, your daily organizer, a calculator, a note pad and anything else you may need right beside your home phone. If you do not have a home phone and only use a cell phone, then put them all together in one spot that is easy access. You never know when you will get a call from your doctor, financial advisor, accountant etc. and will need your items. Put your appointments in your calendar right away and not on a piece of paper that may end up being lost.
3. Have your banking, life insurance, pension plan, estate planning etc. information together and in a safe place. Tell at least one close relative or friend whom you can trust where the information is. Have all the documents organized with the contact names of your financial advisor, life insurance agents etc. handy in case it is needed. The information is not only important for estate planning but for you to have easy access to as well.
4. Buy holiday, birthday, get well, thank you, invitation, sympathy, anniversaries, blank cards etc. ahead of time. Store them in a binder or box with dividers for easy access. This will save you a lot of time and stress of having to go out and buy cards at the last minute.
5. Did you buy or get new clothes for Christmas or New Years? Do you know the rule of thumb when it comes to getting clothes? One comes in and one goes out! For every new item you bring into your closet, an old item is supposed to go out. Go through your old clothes that you do not wear anymore (or at least get rid of the same number that you just brought in) and donate them or give them away to someone you know who can use them.
Hope these little tips helped and if we can be of any assistance at Second Set of Hands, please let us know. We provide home/office organization and concierge services – errand running, personal shopping, home wait service – for the repair/delivery person, home watch service and so much more. Visit our website at www.secondsetofhands.ca or call us at 613-454-5706.
https://www.secondsetofhands.ca/wp-content/uploads/2014/05/Get-Organized.jpg194259Kathy McEwanhttp://www.secondsetofhands.ca/wp-content/uploads/2017/12/logo-800x267.pngKathy McEwan2014-05-02 12:40:222018-01-30 18:45:255 Tips on Being Organized!
