What is Assertive Communication and Why Do We Struggle with It?

If you struggle to communicate with family, friends, or coworkers, you aren’t alone. Communication in any type of relationship can at times feel tricky, leading to unnecessary conflict, stress, and drama. Luckily, the powerful tool of Assertive Communication can help navigate relationships with honesty and clarity while strengthening your confidence and self-esteem. 

Print Friendly, PDF & Email
Read more

Organizing Kid Stuff When Your Family is Still Growing

Hey fellow parents, be honest with me. How many closets in your house are completely packed full of toys your kids don’t play with anymore? How many kitchen drawers are filled with bottles and baby spoons your little ones have outgrown? And how many bathroom cabinets are stuffed with towels that aren’t big enough to dry off your child’s leg after that last growth spurt? 

If you’re not planning on having more kids, the answer is easy…and one I bet most parents could easily sing along with Elsa: let it go. But what if you’re not finished growing your family? 

Print Friendly, PDF & Email
Read more

A Love Letter to So-Called Lazy Susan

Dearest Lazy Susan— 

First of all, I’m terribly sorry for the unfortunate name that has been so unfairly bestowed upon you. If I had it my way, I would have called you Hardworking Susan or Ever-Evolving Susan or Lady Susan of Spinnington. Nevertheless, I would like to express my sincere gratitude for your existence and dedication to organization during this month of love and appreciation for those who hold a special place in our hearts.

Print Friendly, PDF & Email
Read more

All in the Family

I certainly still miss living on base and having access to certain things, especially the commissary. But there is a bright spot that has recently come to our recruiting environment—my brother. My brother has been in the army for about 8 years now, and has spent his entire career at Fort Bragg, with my sister-in-law and their kids. But he decided to volunteer to become a recruiter, and is now moving to our area. It’s the first time in nearly a decade that my siblings and myself will all be living near one another, and be able to be there for family events that we have missed out on over the years.

Print Friendly, PDF & Email
Read more

9 Things a Professional Organizer Does in January

As a professional organizer, the first few weeks of January hold a special place in my heart. There is something so wonderfully refreshing about clean new planners, optimistic resolutions on bulletin boards, and packing away the beautiful chaos of the holidays. The reset button is a magical thing and New Year’s is a perfect time to hit it! Your mileage may vary, but these are the things I refresh each January that truly help me step into the new year with confidence, purpose, and a sense of calm.

Print Friendly, PDF & Email
Read more

Managing Boundaries During Holidays

Boundaries. Maps have them. People need them (probably way more than they realize).

What are personal boundaries you may ask? They are expectations and needs that help you feel safe and comfortable in your relationships. 

Expectations in relationships help you stay mentally and emotionally well. Knowing when to say “yes” or “no” is an essential part of feeling comfortable when interacting with others.

Print Friendly, PDF & Email
Read more

Top 10 Children’s Books for Christmas

We follow a fun Christmas tradition in our household, one I realize many of you may do as well. Beginning on Dec. 1 each year, my children take turns opening one wrapped Christmas book every night before bed, and we read it aloud together. We continue this every night until Christmas morning. The kids love opening the books they’ve seen and read, time and time again, reacting as if it’s the first time ever! Unwrapping a gift or opening a gift bag is always exciting, and snuggling up together for a good read never grows old.

Print Friendly, PDF & Email
Read more