Organize your center

It's been said that the kitchen is the center of the home.  It's where we meet and where we prepare food for out loved ones.  It's the gathering space.  Ever notice how everyone ends up in the kitchen?  And ever notice how every THING ends up in the kitchen or on the table?  And how many times have you been asked where some food item is?  Since the kitchen is the "go to" spot in so many homes, it is essential to keep it organized.  That means keeping certain items in and other items out. 

Establishing the purpose of a space will dictate what items are allowed in it.  If your kitchen is also your office or homework space, it is important to dedicate specific drop off areas where items can reside until it's dinnertime.  Some solutions could be having a drop off space in the entryway, a mobile office that packs up each day, hooks for backpacks in the hall or closet or even individual bins for each member of the family.

Once the purpose has been established, the next step is to keep your toolkit stocked.  As shown in the photo above, keep pens, scissors and homework supplies handy if they are always in use.  Or make an arts and crafts mobile toolbox that resides in a cupboard. 

Finally, don't forget the fridge. .  Ok, not the most exciting, but keeping your refrigerator organized can help you keep your sanity.  Especially if you are a family on the go.

• The holidays are over and any leftover food should be thrown out.
• If you have started a diet, those cookies go too! 
• Clean your fridge one area at a time even if it means you do one shelf a day. 
• Check the dates on condiments. 
• Toss anything that is expired or that smells funky. 
• Put an open date on the outside if it is an item you rarely use. 
• To keep "mystery items" from hiding in the back of the fridge on a small shelf, put a big pack of batteries or soda cans. 
• Label, label, label.  Label both what's inside a container and make a list of what your family can find to eat inside. 

The more you keep yourself organized, the more you are centered and the more you are able to be your best.  Clearing the mental and physical path allows the emotional path room to expand.  And when it does, you are able to share more of your most wonderful you.

To your most centered and organized home.