I love couponing and getting the deals.  I buy 6 papers each week for the coupon inserts (if you get coupons & don’t want them, feel free to send them my way, lol!), which means I’m able to stock-up on great deals.  That stockpile has to go somewhere, preferably somewhat organized. That presents somewhat of a challenge for me because space, especially storage space of any kind, is very much at a premium here.  Confession: I do not have a pantry.  My cabinet space is sparse, but admittedly not as well utilized as it could be. 

I have a goal this year (well, not a goal persay, but I’m taking little steps in all areas making improvements) to really get all the “stuff” organized.  I discovered Sterlite’s clear bins (lid colors vary by season) in 3 sizes that are really working for me: shoebox size, 16 qt, and 56 qt.  I love that the clear bottoms helps me know exactly what is inside & the lids are very flat and simple, no extra bulk. 

I discovered that the 16 qt fits nicely between the dryer & water heater in the laundry room, which is just off the kitchen.  We put in a few shelves in the laundry room, some of which I’m using for food items (need to add more to maximize the space).  Putting like items together in a bin makes it very easy when looking for something specific and I’m loving the organization. It is a small step, but it is working for now. Still have much to organize, even with just the food items.

The bottom bin is full (crammed full!!) of different types & brands of cookie mixes.  The next bin up holds a wide variety (also crammed full) of Homemade Gourmet mixes. Bin #3 from the bottom has 12 bags of Chex Mix (and there are another 7 bags that wouldn’t fit - what can I say? It was an awesome deal!). On top of the Chex Mix bin, there are 3 shoebox size bins: (1) packets of seasonings, gravy, marinades, etc; (2) (can’t see in pic) unopened spices; and (3) cornbread mixes and Crystal Light packets.

I am using the spare room’s (was the office when my computer was in there, but is basically a storage room / dump zone) closet for stockpiling all the non-food stuff, but it is in need of desperate reorganization, so I hope to work on it soon and possibly add in a few more shelves.

For more Tackle It Tuesday, click here.  For more Tuesday Toot, click here.  For more Works For Me Wednesday, click here.

I created a calendar that I think will actually work for me!  I printed monthly pages, hole-punched using a three-hole punch, and then put them in a 1/2″ notebook.  

At first, I kept the notebook on a shelf within arms reach of my computer, until I realized I just wasn’t reaching over for it often enough. 

Above my computer is a large shelf the width of my desk hutch, filled with magazines, DVDs, etc.  I opened the notebook and slid one side under the DVDs / magazines.  This holds it in place, open to the current month.

As the month passes, I can move that page to back of the notebook..  Opening and closing the notebook isn’t a problem at all.  

Thanks, Shannon, for hosting Works For Me Wednesday!  Always lots of great ideas!!