Looking for the perfect work bag/tote/purse?

If you are like me, you are always on the look-out for the perfect work bag that will hold everything you need, and still look stylish. The "perfect" bag FOR ME not only has to hold a laptop, phone, and some paperwork files... but also keys, wallet, (sun)glasses, a make-up bag and maybe even a sweater? The "perfect" bag will also allow me to find all these things easily so functionality and organization is a must. I prefer to sling my bag over my shoulder, but there are times I need my hands. So a longer strap is a great accessory to allow it to be worn "messenger bag" style which keeps everything on my body but still easily available. Lastly, this bag should be able to fit under an airplane seat without dumping over!

I recently did some research for a client and from that I've created a list of my favorite handbags and totes. Now you'll also have to understand that I am pretty frugal and always looking for a deal, so while I may covet some of the more expensive ones listed, I will end up buying something similar that I find at TJ Maxx!

Kate Spade – Hadley Road Dina $348

A classic leather shoulder bag with open-top so everything is easily accessible. Plus it comes with a removable pouch that doubles as a clutch. (*Use this with the organizing insert below...)
SIZE 10.7"h x 13.5"w x 6.4"d.  drop length: 9"

https://www.katespade.com/products/hadley-road-dina/PXRU9473.html

Dagne Dover - Legend Tote $265

This bag has so many pockets and separate compartments, it can hold everything including a drink!  The zip top ensures that items won't spill out if knocked over.
SIZE 11.5"h x 14.75”w x 7”d.  9" Handle Drop.      
https://www.dagnedover.com/collections/legend-tote

 

Knomo – Grosvenor Place $199

Two easy-access front pockets with RFID lining – perfect for cards, passport and phones.  Main compartment: padded section for laptops; 2nd compartment for tablets or other; zippered top.

SIZE 13"h x 16.5"w x 5.5"d Handle Length: 10"

https://knomo.com/products/grosvenor-place-15-laptop-tote-119-209-blk

 

Michael Kors - Whitney Large Leather Tote $298

An everyday, everywhere bag crafted from 100% leather. The spacious interior can accommodate a laptop or extra pair of shoes. Zippered top. (*Use this with the organizing insert below...)
SIZE 11"h x 17.5"w x 7"d. Handle Drop: 11.5"https://www.michaelkors.com/whitney-large-leather-tote/_/R-US_30S8SN1T3L

 

Kate Spade - Molly Large Tote $228
An effortless everyday bag. A removable pouch snaps in & out, a dog-clip closure keeps the tote closed while giving you easy access to inside. (*Use this with the organizing insert below...)
SIZE 11.5”h x14"w x5”d, handle drop: 9.5”

https://www.katespade.com/products/molly-large-tote/098687329965.html

 

Madewell - Transport Tote $188

The top zip closure ensures all your necessities stay in place.  (*Use this with the organizing insert below...)

SIZE 13.5h x 14"W x 6 ½"D. 8" strap drop.

https://www.madewell.com/the-transport-tote-53228.html

These are from Amazon, and have great prices. I would buy these!

YALUXE Women's Vintage Style Soft Leather Work Tote Large Shoulder Bag $60
https://www.amazon.com/YALUXE-Womens-Vintage-Leather-Shoulder/dp/B079HV83SJ/ref=lp_14308055011_1_2?srs=14308055011&ie=UTF8&qid=1537461881&sr=8-2&ascsubtag=[]c2[i]eq5Pmb&tag=thecutonsite-20

SQLP Fashion Women's Leather Handbags ladies Waterproof Shoulder Bag Tote Bags $34
https://www.amazon.com/Womens-Leather-handbags-Waterproof-Shoulder/dp/B01N18UU4X?ref_=fsclp_pl_dp_2&ascsubtag=[]c2[i]7nJCuO&tag=thecutonsite-20

If you choose one of the tote types above that does not have a lot of inside pockets or sections, you may be interested in one of these?  I found this on a Facebook ad so I don't know anything about this vendor.  But I thought it was a great add-on!  It comes in Red, Grey or Beige.

EasySwap Premium Purse Organizer $29.99
https://proudqueen.com/products/easyswap-premium?fbclid=IwAR2wgtVjcEiX5uexgDixFnh1FQnzoCsIwSJ4KmfGIeKj0RJCcoVN7VEgKvk


If you are into the backpack style for ease of carrying, but still want have organized access, check out this pack for a great option.  Again, I found this ad on Facebook so would love to know if anyone purchases it and what they think! 

Modernistlook LUXE Smart Backpack $89.99
https://www.modernistlook.com/en/product/modernist-luxe-brilliance-series-smart-backpack/?utm_campaign=NoInterestManual&utm_source=USALLA&utm_medium=facebook&utm_term=&utm_content=video1&fbclid=IwAR1oTZSZ_BDpLFlMtWdihPIqAN9CPYicU5cDJY4rBKf088yrZKVb3gl2fd4


And finally, one more Facebook find.  A great weekend bag for when you want to un-plug and leave the laptop at work!  This great bag seems perfect for a quick trip whether on a plane, train or boat. It's soft sided but has a great shoe compartment, can fit under the airplane seat and offers outside pockets for easy access to passport and tickets!

 

Lo & Sons - Catalina Deluxe $158.00
https://www.loandsons.com/pages/catalina-deluxe-womens-weekender-travel-bag

5 Surprising Remodel Trends We'll See In 2019

Here's the latest on five surprising remodel trends that experts expect to be popular in 2019, along with predictions about which ones are likely to have staying power.
- Courtesy of Craig Nosler RE/MAX Integrity P: 425-765-5588, www.CraigNosler.com

5 Surprising Remodel Trends We'll See In 2019

1. No Upper Cabinets In the Kitchen

Many interior design experts are talking about the growing popularity of kitchens that have no upper cabinets. It’s a clean, clutter-free look that pairs well with today's minimalistic trend, but it doesn't come without a trade-off.

 

Having no upper cabinets can result in a nice “win” in the looks department as long as the kitchen still has sufficient cabinet space. If the result is a lack of storage, however, it's likely to be a net loss.

Fad Factor: Low to high. It depends on how much storage space you end up with. The level of functionality you may lose is an excellent deciding factor for most rooms (and especially when it comes to the kitchen).

2. Sinks Made of Bright Metallics

The craze for metallics is one fad that’s bucking the current trend of minimalism, which means that this year you’ll see more sinks made of copper and bronze.

Some designers are confidently advising a matte finish, but you don’t have to look far to find someone else telling homeowners to boldly go towards the look of shiny gold.



Native Trails Farmhouse Sink, courtesy of Build.com.

If you like features that make a statement but want to play things safe for future resale, an eye-catching style in a matte metallic may be a good option.

Fad Factor: Low to moderate. As long as a sink style is not too "out there" and the sink itself is a practical design, it's likely to stay reasonably desirable.

3. Terrazzo for Floors, Backsplashes, and Countertops

Terrazzo is a composite material made from chippings of marble, quartz, granite, or glass set into cement. It was popular in the U.S. from the early 1900’s through the 1950’s.

And now… it’s back. :) Here's an example of what it can look like, although it comes in a huge variety of other styles and colors:


Terrazzo's versatility makes it a good candidate for inventive backsplash designs, which are in high demand right now. It can be poured in place or purchased as ready-to-use tiles.

Fad Factor: Moderate. With such a wide range of styles available, how durable the Terrazzo trend may be for your home depends a lot on how unusual a pattern you choose.

4. Matte Black and Hunter Green In Kitchens and Baths

Last year gray seemed to be everyone’s favorite color, but in 2019 expect to see black and hunter green used more frequently in kitchens and bathrooms.

(This might not be the hunter green that immediately springs to mind. The color showing up in many design blogs is a dusky mix of gray and dark sage, as you can see in Benjamin Moore's 2019 Color Trends palette below.)

 
Fad Factor: Moderate. A black or dark gray color scheme may be a safer option than green.

5. Bold Floral Pattern Wallpaper

Yes, bold and colorful wallpaper is making a comeback... and floral patterns are trending. (But wait, keep reading! :) If you look at current design blogs you'll see a wide range of other fresh styles to choose from.

As long as the thought of wallpaper doesn’t make you want to dive into the nearest sensory deprivation chamber, you might enjoy browsing through the LED wallpaper collection from Meystyle, or Piet Boon’s amazing concrete-inspired designs.



LED wallpaper by Meystyle.
Image courtesy of Meystyle.com.

Fad Factor: Moderate to high, depending on the style. Bold floral designs make a statement that's hard to ignore and can make rooms feel smaller. Patterns that create an understated, contemporary look will have more staying power.

On Their Way Out?

To everything there is a season.... These are the styles some design experts say are losing popularity:

- The all-white kitchen.

- Classic subway tiles.

- Ornate features, such as heavily styled cabinets.

- Gray as a base color scheme.


Still Going Strong

- Deep drawer kitchen cabinets. (Expect these to be around forever.)

- Concrete countertops.

- Boldly colored kitchen appliances.

- Pendant light fixtures. 

The Bottom Line...

On any day you can usually find one expert saying a trend is "in" while another says it's going out of fashion. Styles that are both attractive and highly functional are the ones most likely to stand the test of time.

My good friend Sheila's article about "Upsizing" for Zillow's Porchlight on-line magazine.  Not only is she a great writer... but she interviewed me for this one.  LOL!  Thanks Sheila!


https://www.zillow.com/blog/upsizing-your-home-217193/

Your New, Bigger Space: 5 Ways to Win at Upsizing Your Home

By Sheila Cain on 30 Jun 2017

What to do with all that new space? Experts weigh in on filling it affordably and thoughtfully.

As a new generation graduates from renting to homeownership, they face plenty of uncertainties: How much homeowners insurance is enough? Is a home warranty necessary? How do you fill a 4-bedroom home with the stuff that used to be in a 1-bedroom apartment?
Transitioning from an apartment to a larger home is always tricky, but making that move — known as “upsizing” — is extra complicated for today’s young home buyers because they’re really going big.
“When Millennials do become homeowners, they leapfrog the traditional ‘starter home’ and jump into the higher end of the market by choosing larger properties with higher prices, similar to homes bought by older buyers,” states the Zillow Group Report on Consumer Housing Trends. “They pay a median price of $217,000 for a home—more than Baby Boomers, and just 11 percent less than Generation X. The Millennial median home size is 1,800 square feet, similar in size to what older generations buy.”

Many millennial home buyers move from small apartments into 1,800 square feet or more. Photo from Zillow listing.

When you upsize from an apartment into a spacious new home, opportunities abound — plenty of closet space, a yard for the dog, and extra rooms for that home office, spare bedroom, or home gym you’ve always dreamed of.
But once the moving van’s gone and the boxes are unpacked, new homeowners often face the harsh reality of upsizing: The furniture, wall hangings, and knickknacks that fit so perfectly in your small apartment occupy only a fraction of your larger home’s space. And that spare bedroom would be perfect — if only you had a spare bed.
Many new homeowners’ first instinct is to hit the discount stores and buy affordable pieces to fill the space. While budget-friendly furniture has its place, it shouldn’t make up the bulk of your new acquisitions.
There are plenty of ways to use what you already have — and optimize your spending for the things you don’t — to make your new house a cozy home.

Don’t buy things just to fill space

It’s tempting to stockpile new furniture and decorations, but it’s an effort that can easily backfire, according to Jennifer Dwyer, professional organizer and owner of Seattle-based A Logical Mess. Inevitably, the measurements are wrong, or the piece doesn’t match your existing style or decor.
“People naturally want to fill the space, but you really have to consider how you’re going to use it,” advises Dwyer. “Wait until you move in, place the furniture you have already, and assess at that point.”

Start by placing the pieces you have, then decide what to add. Photo from Zillow listing.

It’s OK to sparsely furnish the new place while you get a feel for your new home and the style you’re after. “You can tell when people just go to, say, Pottery Barn and buy what’s on the showroom floor,” says Jason Mathews, owner of Seattle interior design and home staging firm, Jason Mathews LLC.

Prioritize with a special piece

To furnish a large living room or family room, Dwyer recommends investing in a sectional couch. Like a dining room table that expands to seat more people, a sectional sofa pulls apart and goes back together depending on design preferences. And such sofas often have expansion pieces you can buy later to further fill space, adds Dwyer.

Sectional sofa components can be separated and expanded to change the room. Photo from Zillow listing.

Mathews agrees that a sofa is a good investment piece. “It’s something you’re going to use every day,” he says. Furthermore, sectionals pull apart to create more than one focal point in a room — think an L-shaped seating area and coffee table in one part of the living room, and a smaller couch and lamp in another for a cozy reading nook.
Not everything needs to be a statement piece, both Dwyer and Mathews emphasize. Once your sofa is in place, find inexpensive side chairs or perhaps an antique table to repurpose as a coffee table.

Place furniture thoughtfully

Furniture arrangement can make a big space seem smaller. Area rugs are ideal for anchoring furniture groups and making a space feel more homey.

A patterned area rug defines a space within a larger room. Photo courtesy of S+H Construction.

“The great thing about rugs is that they don’t have to be expensive — even a large rug,” Mathews says. He advises centering the rug, then placing furniture on and around it. “Even if the rest of the room is empty, you’re starting out with a cozy spot.”
Homeowners often make the mistake of pushing furniture right up against the walls. But pulling the furniture toward the center of the wall helps minimize an expansive room.

In an expansive room, arranging furniture away from the walls creates natural living areas. Photo from Zillow listing.

“Even just six inches off the wall,” advises Mathews. “It gives the room a chance to breathe a bit.”

Decorate your space

Once you’ve furnished your new home, it’s time to decorate. Items like a standing coat rack in an entryway or decorative vases in a stairwell are classic pieces that also fill space — and they don’t have to be expensive.
“I’m a big fan of T.J. Maxx and Ross,” says Dwyer. “You can play around with ideas, and if they don’t work out, you’re not out a ton of money.”

A few well-chosen decorations give a room a personal touch. Photo from Zillow listing.

Give extra rooms purpose

Empty rooms hold such promise: Will you have a home office? An extra bedroom for visiting families? A place for a treadmill, weight set, and stationary bike?
It’s OK to take some time to think it over — just shut the door if the emptiness bothers you. But whatever you do, don’t use that extra space as a storage room, warns Dwyer, or it will never become anything else.
“Find a home for everything, and don’t leave those boxes lying around,” she says. “If you don’t know where to put it, you probably don’t need it in your new home.”

Top photo from Zillow listing

Related:

• What to Unpack First in Your New Home
• Top Home Design Trends for 2017
• Your Essential Moving Checklist

About the author

Sheila Cain

Sheila Cain is a freelance editor and writer whose focus is on the architecture, construction and real estate industries. She loves cooking and baking, and enjoys experimenting with new flavors of chocolate truffles. She lives in Seattle’s Phinney Ridge neighborhood with her husband, teenage son, and various animals. You can check out her work at www.sheilacain.net.

Logical Mess Website

Jennifer Dwyer
PROFESSIONAL ORGANIZER
www.LogicalMess.com

LIFE - HOME - OFFICE - EVENTS

Room Organization & Design
Space Planning
Feng Shui
Interior Design
Storage & Organization
Kitchen Remodel and Design
Closet Organization
Clutter Control
Real Estate Staging
Packing & Relocation Services
Event & Party Planning
Personal Assistant
Personal Shopper
Personal Projects (photo albums, gift shopping for birthdays or holidays, mass mailings, etc)

What is a Professional Organizer?
A professional organizer enhances the lives of clients by designing systems and processes using organizing principles and through transferring organizing skills.  A professional organizer also educates the public on organizing solutions and the resulting benefits.

A Logical Mess
Jennifer Dwyer, Professional Organizer
Seattle, WA
(206) 351-4194
logicalmess@comcast.net

2014 NFC Championship Game: Seahawks vs 49ers

Sunday is the day!  The 2014 NFC Championship game between the Seattle Seahawks (yah!) and the San Francisco 49ers.  In case you didn't know, game time is Sunday January 19th, 3:30 PM PST.

Here in Seattle, we are very proud!  Every one is a Twelfth Man Fan!  We all love Russell Wilson (QB) and Richard Sherman and Marshawn Lynch, just to name a few....

But here is another player that is getting a lot of recognition this week.  Partly because he made an amazing fumble recovery to score a touchdown in (which game) but also because he the only deaf NFL player.  Derrick Coleman (#40 running back) has been deaf since age 3. 

Bio:
Ht: 6' 0"  Wt: 233  Age: 23
Born: 10/18/1990, West Los Angeles, California
College: UCLA
NFL Experience: 2nd season
Salary: $405,000

Duracell Battery asked him to do a commercial.  It's moving and inspiring... made me a little teary.
http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=u2HD57z4F8E

Then he did an interview with Seattle's own Evening Magazine.
http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=WA1KQO3RaeU

And now there have been several followup interviews from local news reporters, the Seahawks coaches and Derrick Coleman himself.

http://www.seahawks.com/news/articles/article-1/Thursday-in-Hawkville-Derrick-Coleman-a-role-model-but-also-a-good-player/7cd8d74d-6603-42d7-a0a7-87db4ea7c2a8

http://www.seahawks.com/videos-photos/videos/Seahawks-Daily-Extra---Derrick-Coleman--Duracell/6d5d6129-9d31-42e3-9931-f031903d76d6

More info about Saturday's game:

The National Anthem will be sung by Seattle's Ann Wilson (Heart)

http://wncx.cbslocal.com/2014/01/14/ann-wilson-to-sing-national-anthem-before-nfc-championship/

 

 

Macklemore and Ryan Lewis will perform during the Halftime Show

http://www.seahawks.com/news/articles/article-1/Macklemore--Ryan-Lewis-to-perform-at-halftime-of-NFC-Championship/0169233f-7be4-4151-9584-91eb3bc3ec37

 

 

Wedding Planning - it's all about the numbers!

This blog entry goes out to my friend @NoreenTiongson in NYC who just recently got engaged!  Congrats Noreen!  I found some interesting websites for you to check out - when you get some time.  Here are some helpful checklists, tips and do's/don't to help you get through it all!  Planning a wedding is all about the numbers!  So I tried to find lists that go in numerical order (it's harder than you might think!) but also tried to find relevant articles too!  I hope you like?!  ;-)

3 Planning Tools from Brides Magazine (you might have to log on and be a member to use these… but may be worth it?)

http://www.brides.com/myweddingplanner/tools-intro

4 Steps to Try On Wedding Dresses — online!

http://www.brides.com/wedding-dresses-style/dressing-room/

5 Essential Finance Tips for Newlyweds

http://www.brides.com/wedding-answers-tools/wedding-etiquette/2012/12/newlywed-finance-tips#slide=6

6 Hidden Honeymoon Getaways

http://www.brides.com/honeymoons/2012/08/honeymoon-ideas-hidden-honeymoon-getaways#slide=9

7 clever kitchen gadgets

http://shopping.yahoo.com/news/7-clever-kitchen-gadgets-230757035.html

8 Tips For Taming Your Guest List

http://www.brides.com/wedding-answers-tools/wedding-timeline-budget/2006/11/taming-your-guest-list?currentPage=1

9 Tips For Acing Your Wedding Hair Trial

http://www.brides.com/wedding-dresses-style/wedding-hair/2012/05/how-to-have-a-great-wedding-hair-trial#slide=1

10 items couples forget to register for

http://shopping.yahoo.com/news/10-items-couples-forget-to-register-for-184440239.html

11 Things to Avoid the Week Before Your Wedding

http://www.brides.com/wedding-dresses-style/wedding-beauty/beauty-countdown/2012/08/ten-things-to-avoid-before-your-wedding#slide=1

12 Steps How To Create A Wedding Checklist

http://www.ehow.com/how_7525336_create-wedding-checklist.html

13 Examples of Wedding “Style”

http://www.brides.com/blogs/aisle-say/wedding-style-planning/

14 Fascinating Engagement Facts

http://www.brides.com/wedding-engagement/engagement-rings/2012/11/brides-cool-facts-about-getting-engaged?mbid=synd_yshop#slide=1

14 Ways to Cut Your Wedding Budget in Half

http://www.brides.com/wedding-answers-tools/wedding-etiquette/2012/11/how-to-cut-your-wedding-budget-in-half#slide=1

15 Wedding-Day Beauty Emergencies and How to Solve Them

http://www.brides.com/wedding-dresses-style/wedding-beauty/beauty-countdown/2012/09/easy-fixes-for-wedding-day-beauty-emergencies#slide=1

15 Favorite Wedding Invitations of 2012

http://www.brides.com/wedding-ideas/wedding-invitations-stationery/2012/12/brides-best-wedding-stationery-2012#slide=1

15 Wedding Flower Mistakes to Avoid

http://wedding.theknot.com/wedding-planning/wedding-flowers/articles/15-wedding-flower-florist-tips.aspx

17 Things You Didn't Know About Your Wedding Dress

http://www.brides.com/wedding-dresses-style/wedding-dresses/2012/12/cool-facts-about-wedding-dresses-brides-magazine#slide=1

18 Brides Editors Favorite Things

http://www.brides.com/wedding-dresses-style/2012/08/brides-editors-favorite-wedding-products-wedding-ideas#slide=18

21 Wedding Hairstyles that Work Well with Veils

http://www.brides.com/wedding-dresses-style/wedding-hair/2013/01/wedding-hairstyles-with-veils#slide=1

24 of America's Most Beautiful Cakes

http://www.brides.com/brides/2011/09/americas-most-beautiful-cakes-brides-magazine#slide=1

25  Food Trends for 2013

http://www.bonappetit.com/magazine/2013/01/25-food-trends-for-2013

30 Best Wedding Bouquets of 2012

http://www.brides.com/wedding-ideas/wedding-flowers/2012/12/brides-best-wedding-bouquets-2012#slide=1

41 Unexpected Flower Ideas

http://wedding.theknot.com/wedding-planning/wedding-flowers/articles/41-unique-wedding-flower-ideas.aspx

47 Wedding Shoes We Can't Live Without

http://www.brides.com/wedding-dresses-style/wedding-accessories/2012/03/the-best-wedding-shoes#slide=1

50 Wedding Photos You Can't Do Without!

http://wedding.theknot.com/wedding-planning/wedding-photography-videography/articles/50-wedding-photos-you-cant-do-without.aspx

100 Top Wedding Reception Songs

http://tophitsnewsongs.com/best-wedding-reception-songs-2012/

Whew!

Nerium - the fountain of youth!

I am writing this blog post so I can share something important with all my sexy, stylish friends!  As you know, things start to change after 40. The wrinkles start showing, age spots appear out of nowhere and we start noticing the drooping of eyelids and jowls. I realize that I have been blessed with pretty good skin (at least on my face) since you all have been nice enough to point it out to me over the last couple years. Thank you by the way! But even I cannot deny the forehead wrinkles and lines around my eyes. I also have freckles that are getting larger and turning into the dreaded “age spots”! I have already had one scare with melanoma on my face (lip) and to top it off, since I have suffered from eczema for decades, and I now have the hands of an old woman!

Recently I have been hearing more and more of my girlfriends talking about laser peels, Botox and other potential surgeries that are being considered to battle this aging process. I hear all this and I begin to wonder if I too need to start saving for these procedures? Most of you know how frugal I can be about skin care… I don’t spend a lot of money on cosmetics, skin care or anti-aging. I am pretty much a gal who still uses Cover Girl, washes my face with water, and the only real skin care product I use daily is my Mary Kay moisturizer! (Even my Mary Kay rep can’t make any money off me because I only use the lotion, nothing else, LOL!) Never then less, I can’t help but pay attention to the daily Groupons that come my way for hydra facials, laser peels, Botox and cosmetic surgery – and I see the prices and gasp! So expensive – even with a Groupon!

About a month after my first “free” hydra facial (where I was consulted that I’d need many more visits to get my face/skin into shape) I got an email from my dear friend Debbie (who most of you have met) asking if I had heard about a new skincare product called Nerium. I got the email at work and was pretty busy so I didn’t pay much attention to it. However, it came from a close friend who typically does not spam out beauty care secrets. So it made me take notice of the email, but still my usual response was “no, I don’t need that…” Soon after, that same friend sent her own before and after pictures having used the product for just 2 weeks. I couldn’t believe how amazing she looked. Now this friend is in her early 50’s so a little older than me, and she had the typical amount of wrinkles that anyone that age has. The 2-week results pictures showed much shallower wrinkles for sure and a definite tightened up chin line. But what I really noticed was how her skin tone had evened out so much. The last couple times I had seen her I had noticed the red rosacea patches growing on her cheeks, and the freckles on her chest were getting larger. So these pictures showed a complete transformation there! Glowing, pink skin on her cheeks, and even skin on her chest. So I called her and said “what the hell are you using and could it help me with my growing freckles and eczema?!”

Debbie told me about this night cream that she was using called Nerium. www.nerium.com She sent me emails and more before/after photos of all her friends who were now using it. I have met most of these women before so I couldn’t believe the differences. It’s like they all went to some fountain of youth! Now I am pretty skeptical by nature and Debbie knows this. She simply said, give it a try and see what you think. There is nothing to lose.

The product is a 100% natural, organically grown botanical extract that was originally used to heal skin cancer. Doctors found that not only was the skin cancer healing incredibly quickly, but the skin around it was healing too. They did more studies and found that this plant extract was healing and rejuvenating the skin cells from the inside out and that it was eliminating fine lines, deep lines, wrinkles, sagging skin, acne, rosacea, psoriasis’, and a host of other skin issues. They decided to patent the product and eight months ago started a company using just this one product. It is taking the skin care and anti-aging market by storm because NO OTHER product can come close to doing what this one does. Though the timeframe is a little different for everyone, EVERYONE gets results and most people get them fast! Debbie didn’t think she was seeing results after the first week, but then went back and looked at her “before” photos and started crying! The change was definitely noticeable! So I bought some and have been using it for a week now myself.

The best part about this lotion is that it is so easy to use! The routine is simple. All you do is wash your face at night and while your skin is still damp you rub it on. The next morning you wash your face and use your regular products and then go on with your day. That’s it! It’s just one product and it’s that easy. So you can still use the cleansers, day moisturizers and potions that you already own and use regularly.

Debbie had a party last weekend with all her girlfriends and she invited me to come so I could see her friends that were using the product and hear their stories. It was truly amazing to see all their before/after photos and hear how the product has literally saved them thousands of dollars in fillers, face lifts, and other crazy anti-aging potions. Every single one of them was glowing and beaming with confidence and beauty.  With all the results from Debbie and her friends, I decided to become a distributor (known as a “Brand Partner”). I’ve spent hours on the website and talking to other brand partners and I’m just astounded by the integrity and the commitment this company has. Their vision is not only to help people look and feel better, but to succeed in business and in their lives. The company was only started 9 months ago and it has already been named by Forbes as the fastest growing company in the US. The prediction is that it will become a billion dollar company in the next year, and they haven’t even officially launched the product yet!! It’s just one product and the stuff is THAT good. After trying the product and doing my homework on the company I knew that I didn’t want to be sitting around with a bunch of friends a few months from now with them all talking about their success with Nerium and wishing that I had taken advantage of this opportunity, so I decided to become a distributor!!

Here is my personal Nerium web site that has a great video on it about the product. www.jenniferdwyer.nerium.com

I’m telling you, this stuff is amazing! Most of you know that I would never share something with my friends and family that I didn’t believe 100% in, so trust me when I tell you that this product will blow you away. I’m not trying to rope you into anything…I just can’t wait to share this with every single person I know because the results are so incredible and I believe in this company so strongly that I just have to let you in on it! Not that any of you need anti-aging… but I know you all want to be as stylish and fabulous as possible. This product eliminates the need for fillers and botox and other expensive skin things that cost a fortune. They have a 100% money back guarantee and if you don’t get results…no questions asked. So far no one has returned their product because they are all getting phenomenal results and the company reports a less than one tenth of one percent return rate!

If you decide that you would like to purchase the product, you can do so right on my Nerium web site. Just go to where it says “purchase” and you can sign up to be a customer. You can save $30 a month by signing up for the “preferred customer”. If you want to know more before you order it, call me (206) 351-4194, or email me and I will try to answer all of your questions. If you decide after using it that you want to get into the business like I did, I can help you with that too. Also, if you begin using it and you have three friends that want to use it (and believe me, you will once you start using it) you can get your product free!

If you are interested in more info, please feel free to email me at jenniferdwyer8@comcast.net.  Thanks!

Spring Organizing Tips

Spring has sprung, it's time to get organized!

1. Open the windows and blinds! Let the full daylight in so you can enjoy spring. On the practical side, this not only helps you see your space but you can see it with renewed eyes. And let’s be honest, we’re going to kick up a little dust, you know? We’re going to need some fresh air to get rid of dust and cleaning fumes.

2. Tackle one room at a time! This helps you to stay focused and avoid getting overwhelmed. If you stumble across items that should be moved into another room, put them in a pile and distribute them toward the end of the project.

3. Start with small, manageable projects. How about that “junk drawer” in the kitchen. You know you have one! Once it’s organized, you’ll feel so inspired, you’ll want to move to a bigger project!

4. Think “seasonal” changes when organizing. Winter vs. summer. If space is an issue, you may need to store winter gear (clothing, sports equipment/toys, and home furnishings) so you have room for the summer gear you are going to be using.

5. Sort, sort, sort. Group similar things together. Like with like. This gives you a great visual of your “stuff” and helps you see what doesn’t belong.

6. Merge, merge, merge. In the closet: Hang similar color clothes together. In the dresser: Pair your socks. In the kitchen: Nest pots and pans with appropriate lids.

7. Purge, purge, purge. Get rid of the duplicates. Get rid of the unmatched pairs or things that don’t fit. Ask your self the question “Do I use it?” Get rid of things that you don’t use, don’t wear, and don’t love. 

8. Remember that organizing doesn’t have to cost a fortune. Please do not run out and purchase costly shelving systems and storage containers before you’ve done the steps I mentioned above. Low cost solutions may already be in your home. For example - Ziplock bags! All sizes. So many uses!!

9. If you do need to purchase organizing product – measure, measure, measure. Do not buy anything until you know it will fit (on the wall, on the shelf, under the sink, behind the door) wherever you need it to go!

10. Last tip… call me! Enlist the help of a Professional Organizer.

Jennifer Dwyer, Professional Organizer
A Logical Mess
Cell: 206-351-4194
Email: logicalmess@comcast.net
Web: http://www.logicalmess.com/

Meditate on this... Baby's First Bath

I stumbed upon this video/article and I had to share it on my Facebook page.  I have already seen comments relating to this video bringing tears to eyes.  I will have to just cut and paste it for you all to check out yourself. So relaxing, so emotional, so cool.

http://www.elephantjournal.com/2012/04/skip-your-morning-meditation-watch-this-instead/

What separates “boring” from “peaceful”?

Arguably it is the magic and beauty of innocence that emerges when we are truly open. Anyone who has practiced sitting meditation for more than a few minutes knows that you have to sit through a lot of “boring” (and sometimes worse) before the peace and magic begins.

This video of a baby’s first bath, on the other hand, cuts straight to the chase!

This video will do in five minutes what takes your meditation two hours.

About the writer:
Kristin Luce is slowly going sane by using her actual life and relationships to wake up. Her quest for truth has led her through a B.A. in Philosophy, an M.A. in Buddhist Psychology, 20 years of retreat practice, certification as a Meditation Instructor, two life-changing relationships and two life-changing kids. A Psychotherapist for 15 years, she now encourages everyone to find their own truth using The Work of Byron Katie—working with individuals and couples in her Boulder and Denver offices and by phone. An avid writer, she has been featured in such publications as Mothering Magazine and The Buddhadharma, among others. Find out more about her on Facebook, Twitter, her website or contact her at info@kristinluce.com.

Emergency Preparedness - Hurricane Irene

With the recent earthquake and the current threat of hurricanes on the east coast... I thought it important to bring up the Emergency Preparedness Kit again. I know I told everyone I know to get an Emergency Kit together a couple years ago so you may have followed this advice? If you did - great. Now it's time to pull it out again and check the contents. Even though the hurricane Irene threats are not going to effect us on the west coast, it's still a good reminder to check your kit and make any changes needed. For instance, check batteries in flashlights and change them out, and make sure that any food/water/meds that you put in there are not expired. Most importantly, check your chargers to make sure they are still working. I do NOT recommend solar powered chargers like I have seen on the news. Obviously these are not going to work at night and you can't be sure how much sunlight you are going to have in a hurricane or other natural disaster. I recommend the hand crank type charger so that you will always have a charge even in the dark. The one I purchased came with several different connectors so that you can charge many different things (many different phones). What you want to check now is that the connectors still work with your current phone. I know my charger worked with my phone three years ago... but I have since updated and I need to make sure the charger has that connector as well!

If you don't have a Emergency Preparedness Kit, you should make one. Here are some tips, links and advice to help you!

Hurricane Preparedness:
http://www.ready.gov/america/beinformed/hurricanes.html
http://www.nhc.noaa.gov/HAW2/english/disaster_prevention.shtml

Emergency Kit:
http://www.ready.gov/america/getakit/index.html
http://www.nhc.noaa.gov/HAW2/english/prepare/supply_kit.shtml

Be prepared! Good thoughts are going out to friends on the East Coast who are in the danger zones. Please stay safe!

Breast Cancer is Striking More Women Under 40

My friend Sheila was diagnosed with breast cancer over two years ago. I remember getting the email from her that started with "This is the hardest email I've ever had to write..." and she went on to explain her symptoms, tests and diagnosis. It was devastating to read those words and to hear her terror, sadness, anger and confusion. I could only imagine what she was about to go thru. She was already in the midst of planning her wedding, raising her son, growing her business. Her life was going to change drastically. And it did.

Here is an article she wrote for Seattle Magazine. It will be in next month's issue (July 2011).

Breast Cancer Is Striking more Women Under 40 than Ever Before.
Why more young women are being diagnosed, and what you need to know to keep yourself safe.
by Sheila Cain

[Cancer-free for two years, Cain holds one of the wigs she wore during chemo. Image Credit: Hayley Young.]

When I received that fated phone call from my doctor telling me I had breast cancer, all I wanted to do was fall on the floor and cry. But first I had to go pick up my son from kindergarten.

Somewhere between the mammogram and the core biopsy, I had become one of a growing number of young women diagnosed with breast cancer. Statistics show that breast-cancer diagnoses in women younger than 40 have increased in the last decade, possibly because of improved screening methods. In 2010, the American Cancer Society predicted about 207,090 new cases of breast cancer in women; between 5 percent and 7 percent of those women will be younger than 40.

Two years ago, at age 38, I went from being a busy, self-employed freelance writer, a kindergarten reading volunteer and my 5-year-old son’s boo-boo kisser to a stage II breast cancer patient reeling from a mastectomy, 16 rounds of aggressive chemotherapy and five weeks of daily radiation treatment. Accustomed to juggling assignments, phone calls and interviews, I had to get used to letting my husband schedule my blood draws, doctors’ appointments and weekly infusions. Instead of cooking meals for my family, I accepted casseroles from friends and neighbors. And after more than 20 years of adulthood, I once again cried in my mother’s arms like a child.

While a breast cancer diagnosis at any age is devastating, younger women face unique challenges. Many of us are just ramping up our careers and raising families. Others are still dating or considering having children. My friend Nicole, diagnosed with stage III breast cancer at age 34 and unable to lift anything after her double mastectomy, had to use jellybeans to coax her toddler into his car seat. Luchie, 33, still hasn’t had a chance to become a mother. She had to abort her fetus when, at three weeks’ gestation, she was diagnosed with stage III breast cancer.

I met these women and many others like them at the Young Survival Coalition meetings at Gilda’s Club in Seattle, a support group geared toward women younger than 40 facing breast cancer. There, we shared our fears and celebrated our victories with others who had lost a breast, their hair and their dignity—but were fighting like hell to get them all back.

Diagnosing breast cancer in younger women can be tricky. Their breast tissue is generally denser than that of older women. By the time a lump is felt, the cancer is often advanced. Delays in diagnoses are also a problem, because many young women ignore the warning signs—such as a lump or unusual discharge—because they believe they are too young to get breast cancer.

On my doctor’s recommendation, I started receiving mammograms at age 35, since both my grandmothers had been diagnosed with breast cancer. Even so, I found my 5-cm. lump on my own—despite having a clear mammogram two months earlier. By then, it had spread to two of my lymph nodes. Frighteningly, this type of story is not uncommon among younger women. The mammogram remains the go-to scan, even though the technology is no match for the compact tissue often found in the breasts of younger women. MRI—or magnetic resonance imaging—can detect some cancers readily, but carries a high price tag. Many young women, like me, find their breast cancers themselves, through self-examination.

Though I did self-exams a few times a year, like many women my age, I hadn’t spent time worrying that I might have a potentially fatal disease. Luckily, two years after my diagnosis, I show no evidence of disease. But the fear of recurrence is always there.

It’s often difficult to be vigilant about my health when faced with everyday responsibilities, but it’s worth staying focused. I have a job that I love and a family that depends on me.

And my mom promises to lend me her shoulder whenever I need it.

Finding support: The Young Survival Coalition (YSC) is a nonprofit group dedicated to the issues unique to young women who are diagnosed with breast cancer, a disease that usually doesn’t affect women until their 60s. The YSC Seattle chapter’s support group meets the first and third Wednesdays of each month, from 6:15 to 8:30 p.m. at Gilda’s Club on Capitol Hill, 1400 Broadway, Seattle; youngsurvival.org/seattle.

http://www.seattlemag.com/article/best-seattle/top-doctors/breast-cancer-striking-more-women-under-40-ever

BEVERAGE SERVICE TIPS FROM THE GO2GIRLS!

(Some very good info from my party planning friend Leasa. I thought it worth sharing!)

BEVERAGE SERVICE TIPS FROM THE GO2GIRLS!!

A well-stocked assortment of alcoholic and nonalcoholic beverages ensures that you can quench every guest's thirst. But how much do you really need to keep glasses filled? Keep this guide handy when purchasing beverages.

Ice: Nothing is more refreshing than a chilled beverage, so put ice at the top of your shopping list. Buy 1 pound of ice per guest (or three times more than you think you'll need) and store it in coolers during the party.

Nonalcoholic options: Offer choices such as regular and diet soft drinks, bottled water, coffee and lemonade. Plan on two nonalcoholic drinks per guest for the first hour and one for each subsequent hour. Consider the weather also, people drink more when it's warm outside.

Alcoholic beverages: Stock your bar with traditional offerings: gin, vodka, bourbon, rum and dry vermouth. Expect guests to consume two drinks the first hour and one drink each hour after, and plan on 1½ ounces of liquor per drink. Mixers: Club soda, tonic water, ginger ale, coke, diet coke, 7up, orange juice and cranberry juice. A quart of mixer should serve three people.

Garnishes: Cut limes, lemons, cocktail olives and cocktail onions. Don't forget essential barware: A shaker, strainer, corkscrew, glasses, cocktail napkins, straws and toothpicks make serving drinks a breeze.

Wine and beer: Three to four drinks per person is sufficient for a four-hour party. One bottle of wine serves four to six guests. If a toast is in order, break out the bubbly. For a pre-dinner party, have one bottle of champagne for every three or four guests. For a cocktail party, purchase 8 to 12 bottles per 24 guests.

Remember you know your friends best!! This is based on the moderate drinker, if your friends like to have more fun than the moderate drinker we would suggest an increase in your quantity of alcoholic beverages and of course a hired shuttle service or cab rides home:-)

We hope you have a wonderful and successful party. Please think of The go2girls when you are planning your next party and/or event and want to hire professional help. Please visit our website and "like" us on Facebook for occasional helpful hints, tips and recipes!!

http://www.thego2girlseventplanning.com/

Leasa P: 360-298-0422 E: info@thego2girlseventplanning.com

Doing Time on The Board (HOA)

I bought a condo a couple years ago. It was my first purchase, my first home. I love it! I feel so grown up by having it and I take great pride in keeping it neat and nice. Now I am not a negative person, but I do like to think about worst case scenarios, just so I can prepare for the worst. Being prepared takes some of the sting out of unexpected events. I was aware of the downsides of home ownership because I had heard all the stories from friends. So I knew that repairs and emergency issues could come up and could cost a lot of money. I felt like I was going to be able to handle it. I had a stable job, a few bucks in the bank and my inspector had told me that my condo was in good shape and probably wouldn't need any major repairs for a while. Whew, looking good. What I was not prepared for was THE HOA BOARD. I knew these things existed and I knew the premise of why they were needed. I also knew from friends that I should avoid being on the HOA Board at all costs. They say "It's an unpaid time suck and no one is ever satisfied." So, you can imagine my apprehension when I was approached by the HOA President and asked to consider joining the HOA Board. He said there was a position to fill and it would only be until the next election which was coming up soon. I was intrigued because I have a strange desire to organize things, educate myself, be in the know, have a say in how things work, voice my opinions, lead. Being a new home owner meant I had a lot to learn. So I thought maybe a short stint on the Board would help me understand the condo association, info about my building, and be a good way to meet my neighbors? Maybe I felt honored because he said I was smart, organized and responsible and I would be a good addition to the Board?? Maybe I am just a sucker? Whatever happened, I accepted the position. I took the position of Treasurer and got to see the budgets, the income/expenses, the past assessments, who owes what and more. I worked with the President on such issues relating to repair, landscaping, old legal issues, parking and the like. Interesting stuff. Nothing too major. I learned a lot. Mission accomplished. Fast forward two years and a half years and I am now in my second term as President. How did that happen?? I must be a glutton for punishment because no one in their right mind does this. Let's remember that the real estate market has taken a dive. So while my short term as Treasurer was all about general maintenance issues around the building, I am now having to deal with the all the repercussions of a bad market. Major issues like late dues, collections, foreclosures, bank repos, utility shut offs, lawsuits. I am still learning a lot, but now I am learning all the bad, negative stuff. It's kind of like dating someone who is getting divorced. You go into the relationship thinking everything is new and exciting. You are hopeful and positive and wanting everything to work out. You dream about being together forever. Then you find out that the other person in the relationship is negative, bitter and jaded, and thinks the relationship will fail like their last one did. It's hard to have a forward moving relationship with someone who is moving backwards out of theirs. You realize it's best to just end the relationship before the blaming, name calling, and regrettable outbursts happen. Unfortunately for me, I can't break up with my Association. And I don't want too. I still want to feel like I am helping to make our living experience better. Don't get me wrong, most of my neighbors are great and there are no problems. But there are a few out there who have become bad seeds. Owners who get behind on dues and blame the HOA for being to expensive. Or they treat the HOA like we are some sort of free service, no-interest bank service and they can pay here and there, whenever they feel like it. Some owners simply don't want to pay their dues or assessments - and think they don't have to. It's not optional you know, it's not like deciding you don't want to pay for cable anymore. You knew the deal when you bought the condo! Lately there are some owners who walk away from their units and trash the place causing the HOA to have to spend more money in repairs. It's getting bad! Yes, I do understand that the economy is in a downturn and property values have dropped. I understand if someone can't afford their mortgage anymore and needs to walk away. That is between you and your bank. What I don't understand is people who start punishing the HOA too. By making accusations or judgements against the HOA for their personal financial misery. Or skipping out on their HOA dues along with their mortgage. HOA dues are not part of the mortgage, and they aren't paid to some nameless, faceless corporate entity. They are the fees that pay for the common ground (landscaping, utilities, cable, repairs). Our HOA charges the very least that they can to pay the expenses that everyone wants and votes on. Trust me there is no stock pile of cash sitting in an account somewhere. I think sometimes owners don't get that. Don't they realize that skipping out on dues means you are skipping out on your neighbors. The expenses still need to get paid. The neighbors end up having to make up for it by paying more? It's unfair to expect your neighbors to make up the differences when they are themselves feeling the budget crunch that everyone is. Here is the thing. If you have to walk away from your mortgage, you have to. But please have some respect for your neighbors and Board members and don't make it harder on them. We are all hard working people who are trying to be responsible and give our time to this Association. We "work" for free on HOA issues, in addition to our already busy work & personal schedules. We are just home owners like you, we are not lawyers, real estate agents, accountants or bankers. We are your neighbors and we are just trying to do the best we can for all of you. Please don't blame us for your financial troubles, threaten to sue us, vandalize our property, or verbally slander us. Please know that we never wanted to be on the Board either, we just did it because someone had to. The ultimate goal would be that everyone take their turn willingly. A stint on the Board would give everyone the understanding of the responsibility at hand - and maybe association members would start to appreciate the Board. Whew, glad to get that off my chest, sorry for the vent!