A Happy Home Office with HomeGoods

There have been a lot of really amazing and fun opportunities that have come my way over my blogging years, and with each one, I find myself in awe.  Blogging has gone from a fun hobby to a complete passion and I absolutely <b>love</b> to write about our home journey, document our renovations, share our organizing solutions and connect with the best audience around.  That's what it has always been about, everything else is icing on the cake!<br><br>With that, I have always been really selective about the brands I partner with and the opportunities I say "yes" to.  This has allowed me to create really solid relationships and stay true to why I come back here each day, yet some of those opportunities have stretched me and allowed me to grow in many new ways.  Ways that I ultimately get to bring back here!  Sounds like a bit of a full circle moment, doesn't it?<br><br>Last week was one of those really incredible moments.  <a href="http://www.homegoods.com/" rel="nofollow" target="_blank">HomeGoods</a> was hosting an event at a loft in New York City as part of their #makehomeyours campaign, and they invited me to design one of the spaces!   <br><br><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgRNdNxk-ERuxE5U9ZlMK30e5oUarmKioOYAvH98nOC3JWm8QAa3oCCHRcKaIYEZOfnUUMtHfiJ33E3t2ApoilhRds3VVNWx146fT34HyPfu99GCudDYd2M41HWDsLFJ5PO_ek91fHVW7xw/s1600/MH_Homegoods-0535.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgRNdNxk-ERuxE5U9ZlMK30e5oUarmKioOYAvH98nOC3JWm8QAa3oCCHRcKaIYEZOfnUUMtHfiJ33E3t2ApoilhRds3VVNWx146fT34HyPfu99GCudDYd2M41HWDsLFJ5PO_ek91fHVW7xw/s1600/MH_Homegoods-0535.jpg"></a></div><br>I know right?  Amazing.  <br><br>HomeGoods is all about offering beautiful and unique items for individuals looking to create a home that tells their personal stories.  Stories of favorite memories, of travels, of hobbies and passions.  The stories that make your house a home.  They challenged three different bloggers to design a room using only HomeGoods products (as well as a few of our own personal items), to not only portray our style, but to tell our stories.  They really wanted each room to be a reflection of how we live within our own homes.<br><br>The other two bloggers?  The talented Gabrielle from <a href="http://www.designmom.com/" target="_blank">Design Mom</a> and Claire from <a href="http://fashionbombdaily.com/" target="_blank">The Fashion Bomb Daily</a>.<br><br><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhy2dS9GqHxgOlqXEi28hm-jlFy4oaNHRb-leMpHhTIPZQYC_x8huCTO3YjIcW0LT0ePl7omyT0UZNEkQK8Tns7SfoXbiDAPnFTKambEkZmLRJw4xMtvzDZIr07mOd7vHpi_5fJl-ItkhaX/s1600/MH_Homegoods-0612.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhy2dS9GqHxgOlqXEi28hm-jlFy4oaNHRb-leMpHhTIPZQYC_x8huCTO3YjIcW0LT0ePl7omyT0UZNEkQK8Tns7SfoXbiDAPnFTKambEkZmLRJw4xMtvzDZIr07mOd7vHpi_5fJl-ItkhaX/s1600/MH_Homegoods-0612.jpg"></a></div><br>Can you tell which room is mine of the three finished spaces below? <br><br><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhEumNlOZcYUjIx5V-fgyDvi_eB0Wf-aKIk9lgekeZ23Hw6uddun_7i04heEJ7H_ZXsxMt2BhzgGgbf2GNLCt5Qj4ugqt6SNAVOZYtaLCjO91HhQhAXTb9TRf3bOyLSAtX4AOKTT3ymWUcN/s1600/HomeGoodsCollage.png" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhEumNlOZcYUjIx5V-fgyDvi_eB0Wf-aKIk9lgekeZ23Hw6uddun_7i04heEJ7H_ZXsxMt2BhzgGgbf2GNLCt5Qj4ugqt6SNAVOZYtaLCjO91HhQhAXTb9TRf3bOyLSAtX4AOKTT3ymWUcN/s1600/HomeGoodsCollage.png"></a></div><br>OK, I know I sort of gave it away in my post intro photo, but what I love about the images above is that each room is so distinctively different.  You can read about <a href="http://www.designmom.com/2015/03/kid-friendly-family-room/" target="_blank">Gabrielle's family room here</a> and <a href="http://fashionbombdaily.com/2015/03/23/the-bomb-life-making-home-yours-with-home-goods/" target="_blank">Claire's bedroom here</a>.<br><br>The space I was challenged to create was a home office!  Love.<br><br><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgcv1WpktpLXjOKd7-KG0-twGlX35rw9Y-DFrH24miy5oUnrG3R999ehLzjdI1oTcZf5eeVe339UcRyl1qalOqbG5LM3ORoeKWBVJm5jai5wgnuil2WwEvgPTPwaz7UBbQz2QFk-hTd6Fss/s1600/MH_Homegoods-0088.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgcv1WpktpLXjOKd7-KG0-twGlX35rw9Y-DFrH24miy5oUnrG3R999ehLzjdI1oTcZf5eeVe339UcRyl1qalOqbG5LM3ORoeKWBVJm5jai5wgnuil2WwEvgPTPwaz7UBbQz2QFk-hTd6Fss/s1600/MH_Homegoods-0088.jpg"></a></div><br>Being that I work from home, I spend many, many hours in my home office.  So I was really excited and passionate about creating this space for the event.<br><br>There was definitely a bit of prior planning in the days leading up to the event; furniture checklists, color selections and talks about key elements.  When I arrived in New York, I took a trip to HomeGoods and felt like I was on a TV show.   They gave me a cart and said, "Shop until you drop!"  The goal was to have a lot of items to select from back at the loft space to be sure the room would come together in time for the big day.<br><br>Monday afternoon the loft was a complete blank slate.  When I arrived, they were putting up walls and panels to divide each room.  A lot of magic happened within 24 hours to pull together each space and prep them for the filming and media visits.<br><br><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjcT8NCnTvW3nvl5T3LCXhabmWbf0SE4LDeywMmUXCHoYpg8XmseHyaQqczS28xLz_a98_H3z9-HaRz49YABZ0OKqLkaotBmdrJKzOMadwqXLtOauDkEnZQoy2CPCd1vBErER9m80-MsRh0/s1600/MH_Homegoods-0075.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjcT8NCnTvW3nvl5T3LCXhabmWbf0SE4LDeywMmUXCHoYpg8XmseHyaQqczS28xLz_a98_H3z9-HaRz49YABZ0OKqLkaotBmdrJKzOMadwqXLtOauDkEnZQoy2CPCd1vBErER9m80-MsRh0/s1600/MH_Homegoods-0075.jpg"></a></div><br>A lot of thought goes into designing a room, it is more than pretty colors and textures.  I started with a color palette that makes my heart smile, and it is pulled from the sea.  Living in a cold and dreary state half of the year, I find so much joy designing with aquas, navys, teals and greens.  Especially because trips to the Florida Gulf have become so special to our family over the past couple of years.  Also found in the south are vibrant pink flowering plants and shrubs.  So, I say yes to pink as well.  It is my favorite color after all.  So yes, even the colors selected for the space have deep rooted meaning.  Here are a few more tips I used when creating this beautiful home office.<br><br><br><span style="color: #999999;"><b>FIND YOUR MOTIVATION MOJO</b></span><br><br>When it comes to both organizing and designing a space, select pieces that inspire you and will motivate you to want to use and maintain the space day after day.  For me personally, I get all giddy inside when I open a drawer and see pretty papers showing through acrylic organizers.  That prevents me from wanting to toss random items and piles in on top.  In fact, acrylic organizers just may be my favorite things ever.  #obsessed<br><br><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiYmPpfIJRJ4qmS30BktmnWjzUGYyKLnU0w6o3O4xfvbbqYqb3hVWK5cSMLvO2RrPV1OEi16qCpagAmNVj9IxRnf4Oe_3noRDqcrpvB7gc6Em0eDo2c-LS4fvEtM2LMi_YkKe7ebz4d80RT/s1600/MH_Homegoods-0462.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiYmPpfIJRJ4qmS30BktmnWjzUGYyKLnU0w6o3O4xfvbbqYqb3hVWK5cSMLvO2RrPV1OEi16qCpagAmNVj9IxRnf4Oe_3noRDqcrpvB7gc6Em0eDo2c-LS4fvEtM2LMi_YkKe7ebz4d80RT/s1600/MH_Homegoods-0462.jpg"></a></div><br>And filing paperwork might feel like a chore some days, but it is a bit easier when you are smitten with the cabinet you are using to hold those important documents.<br><br><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiGixgtpQ9xWVhF2rp2ID8LxIvon7QsoqEF0zp13kbv99mM026oKVJACqbPXru_yZCU-QxyujLZFjkHLjNMOJV-F7lN6RaQ-M0ZlYGIUCEuCCeXp0Jfw1lqyvwQjfqiO1vM3rofdet3lp0h/s1600/MH_Homegoods-0979.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiGixgtpQ9xWVhF2rp2ID8LxIvon7QsoqEF0zp13kbv99mM026oKVJACqbPXru_yZCU-QxyujLZFjkHLjNMOJV-F7lN6RaQ-M0ZlYGIUCEuCCeXp0Jfw1lqyvwQjfqiO1vM3rofdet3lp0h/s1600/MH_Homegoods-0979.jpg"></a></div><br><br><span style="color: #999999;"><b>INJECT YOUR STORY</b></span><br><br>Feeling at home in a space is all about filling it with things that you love.  For me, my family is my passion, so I brought in framed family photos and artwork created by my children.  I also pinned up my favorite Instagram photos on the memo boards right in front of the desk.  Those memories make the space feel like home to me.<br><br><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgCj4i_zAYHvQoZ93DVLH67iXOysZNhjHwktQyDlFkjzVEurxyRJ4f6Wv67c8R6niZAMdIjYAvd5IUU9iY4opxMR19NsJPTsqZyzu1rnaFRmwV0Xgfi0xe1uBhEzcoHMeCiwJOlUATRNYnX/s1600/MH_Homegoods-1046.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgCj4i_zAYHvQoZ93DVLH67iXOysZNhjHwktQyDlFkjzVEurxyRJ4f6Wv67c8R6niZAMdIjYAvd5IUU9iY4opxMR19NsJPTsqZyzu1rnaFRmwV0Xgfi0xe1uBhEzcoHMeCiwJOlUATRNYnX/s1600/MH_Homegoods-1046.jpg"></a></div><br><br><span style="color: #999999;"><b>FIND YOUR WOW MOMENT</b></span><br><br>If you have been reading here for awhile, you know I am big with graphic statement walls.  Our birch tree stencil wall in <a href="http://iheartorganizing.blogspot.com/2012/10/our-playroom-reveal.html" target="_blank">the playroom</a> has brought so much life to that space and the <a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEguZI4tAZG-J-sTOkP95tCh1FahIK9sl4BzqXTiW4N9Dd2VSGYLdl9nfzUMaBY4_15Lh2CJsWG-JVV7fdn5zmKdhD0WHVi4-XWm3JHS9X7DmpS5GcFbmWZkC-KaqkBIEfK-2d1CBNJVCS4/s1600/IHeart_Guest_Bedroom_2.jpg" target="_blank">wallpapered closet nook</a> is about the happiest space in our home.  Oh, and <a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhbiaoXpLQ2mLHclTxWory_QNAYJEQXu6oOv-pAXyZ6N2s0asW9nv5OM6nhyphenhyphenb5nyhqMbcA3HMNM5Is8qFdPV5nVC17o4kC_Wsjb6M38rVPOZgMtXoBBBHNzdmfr4tl1Bqzf7ZLmmvQLQt4/s1600/IHeart_Dressing_Room_Closet_1.jpg" target="_blank">our stenciled dressing room wall</a> is amazing, I still get asked all the time where I found the "wallpaper".  Love that.<br><br>I wanted to recreate that moment in this space, so I used HomeGoods gift wrap to deck out a wall!  Their papers are so thick and the patterns are always so fresh and fabulous, that you would never know it isn't wallpaper (<i>bonus: each roll I used was only $2.99 for 10 ft of wrap</i>).  A little double stick tape and I had an instant wow moment.  The best part, gift wrap is temporary and you won't feel as bad taking it down as you would painting over a stencil or tearing down expensive wallpaper.<br><br><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhFgaC0s3weqMIPwLTJ2-PqWCIh4cyEkMzTW6JfdJxOxa1vdTTfSvBG8WVkjvQSozBknOh8tWWRo8rVp60hZHli_oy41YJJdWdPCWZQ49eTn1Ut08C8mcXZBqkdjl3OIYl57gTJlhvbG8X6/s1600/MH_Homegoods-0065.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhFgaC0s3weqMIPwLTJ2-PqWCIh4cyEkMzTW6JfdJxOxa1vdTTfSvBG8WVkjvQSozBknOh8tWWRo8rVp60hZHli_oy41YJJdWdPCWZQ49eTn1Ut08C8mcXZBqkdjl3OIYl57gTJlhvbG8X6/s1600/MH_Homegoods-0065.jpg"></a></div><br><br><span style="color: #999999;"><b>CREATE A SETUP THAT WORKS WELL FOR HOW YOU WORK</b></span><br><br>One thing I have found to be really helpful in my own office, is having two workspaces that serve as different functions.  I appreciate having a counter height option that allows me to spread out and wrap gifts, write out cards and work on small craft and DIY projects.  And sometimes I just want to stand!  By having the second space, I can leave out my projects and go to a clean desk to sit and do the computing and business side of things.  It is always important to think about how you use your space, and set it up accordingly, yet don't be afraid to continuously tweak it until you find an awesome daily flow.<br><br><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh9k26AJcHaQK-3n4OIOiqZ-yfXg2Ux890pAjflt7CABPGoy6bdoC0wLBVnhQBqxNVhZgBCJDjezJa9mteSO6BxX5-gD7HYuDku9lCuui3xP_F2IQlQffIP6gHqQ1bne_5JRN8x3hIprd-f/s1600/MH_Homegoods-0261.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh9k26AJcHaQK-3n4OIOiqZ-yfXg2Ux890pAjflt7CABPGoy6bdoC0wLBVnhQBqxNVhZgBCJDjezJa9mteSO6BxX5-gD7HYuDku9lCuui3xP_F2IQlQffIP6gHqQ1bne_5JRN8x3hIprd-f/s1600/MH_Homegoods-0261.jpg"></a></div><br><br><span style="color: #999999;"><b>THINK OUTSIDE OF THE STORAGE BOX</b></span><br><br>One of my biggest tips for setting up a space, is to be open minded when you are sourcing your storage and furniture pieces.  One of my favorite office supply organizers in this space was actually found in the cosmetic department.  The craft desk is a console table intended for living and dining spaces.  Rolls of gift wrap are stored in an umbrella stand and a planter from the garden department.  <br><br><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi9TZzZjXc7pGWiHq_VyZEn7v6SBymTvE8rvzXGZDKMnx7jappe5rCaWXSflJt0zqx5MwJABaHi7t1yzWPS2qfaTe3M1wDF71M91GJY5hhWjY1WeTfA7h3nlOi8Hz-6cWpbYJxSK7hHy2Y0/s1600/MH_Homegoods-0966.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi9TZzZjXc7pGWiHq_VyZEn7v6SBymTvE8rvzXGZDKMnx7jappe5rCaWXSflJt0zqx5MwJABaHi7t1yzWPS2qfaTe3M1wDF71M91GJY5hhWjY1WeTfA7h3nlOi8Hz-6cWpbYJxSK7hHy2Y0/s1600/MH_Homegoods-0966.jpg"></a></div><br>I also used a bar cart to act as a tech station, perfect for docking a computer and/or printer.  Add a few boxes and baskets and you can store reams of paper, printer cartridges and small media.  Seriously, bar carts are amazingly versatile and so gosh darn adorable in any setting. <br><br><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiCi4Z8eUBoX_Z_hTsPiB54T7ojapxd2-F7TXtXxXVGVFmJdAgKZmGO_sMYOSCloiPt8ND6u4ZcforqWlxd-ayK7Y7gYxCOFCicUzN8GsQb2w_YFi1TB1QqCifnLmJ5rKJfIVUtnqTRKgZF/s1600/MH_Homegoods-1040.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiCi4Z8eUBoX_Z_hTsPiB54T7ojapxd2-F7TXtXxXVGVFmJdAgKZmGO_sMYOSCloiPt8ND6u4ZcforqWlxd-ayK7Y7gYxCOFCicUzN8GsQb2w_YFi1TB1QqCifnLmJ5rKJfIVUtnqTRKgZF/s1600/MH_Homegoods-1040.jpg"></a></div><br>Oh!  And don't be afraid to put organizers into organizers!  Some of my favorite storage solutions were as simple as placing mail slots and drawer organizers inside of the baskets on the shelves.<br><br><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg2J5s1zTAysNoAjAI2KGKVO-RC9wbnoHyjhcDb2ERU5oExecUxwWBFi2NSfhj4_vTlm_jZ9hsoPlZiCieGDXgT2tD2noh0gFvSrFA3gZUwUm1UWuKZJOL2rbby2kj18UnAJnMD9iFBXDXO/s1600/MH_Homegoods-0941.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg2J5s1zTAysNoAjAI2KGKVO-RC9wbnoHyjhcDb2ERU5oExecUxwWBFi2NSfhj4_vTlm_jZ9hsoPlZiCieGDXgT2tD2noh0gFvSrFA3gZUwUm1UWuKZJOL2rbby2kj18UnAJnMD9iFBXDXO/s1600/MH_Homegoods-0941.jpg"></a></div><br><br><span style="color: #999999;"><b>FAMILY FRIENDLY OPTIONS </b></span><br><br><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjqmN6EaJRnPpOkwyyz1IO_4BYFlIgiL3uSZHIJd4t7Mw_cxg2MEnUPnLDF_Lvt9VLwY3SIVVe_nfbaF94_jNwCjDg9zS32k7zkjgBvsZoKZLj47uV0mB2kQU6tkY0OZeM_wCWM0CoCkeRY/s1600/11049380_782958768426367_773567254_n.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjqmN6EaJRnPpOkwyyz1IO_4BYFlIgiL3uSZHIJd4t7Mw_cxg2MEnUPnLDF_Lvt9VLwY3SIVVe_nfbaF94_jNwCjDg9zS32k7zkjgBvsZoKZLj47uV0mB2kQU6tkY0OZeM_wCWM0CoCkeRY/s1600/11049380_782958768426367_773567254_n.jpg"></a></div><br>Although I am the primary user of our home office, I welcome my boys into my workspace with open arms.  They do their homework there, they craft there, they <i>live</i> there.  I want them to know that my space is their space, so I keep baskets of their favorite books and toys out in the open to encourage them to hang out with me.  Crafts are always within their reach and I make sure to have enough working surface so they can join me whenever they wish.  I also select kid friendly finishes and products; rugs that hide stains, an easy to clean sofa, soft sided furniture and surfaces that wipe up in a jiff.  A kid filled home can still be a beautiful home.<br><br><span style="color: #999999;"><b><br></b></span> <span style="color: #999999;"><b>DECOMPRESSION SPOT</b></span><br><br>Space permitting, it is nice if you can carve out a corner for relaxation and taking a mental break.  A chair, bench or sofa is not only fantastic when you just want to sit and look at a magazine or write down thoughts in a journal, the seating spot also offers visitors a place to get cozy in your space.<br><br><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj7s_tX-Pz1OrsUQSP7z5xSV4YFeHk6qm3h_pik7AqAEqNSKnBZEh1QLhMS0c5FWZC3ckdF7Pz-ieEzpdELCrN4p5UbK8yueiK1-a0iJ8OhNeIT_0NHI2E-VUfTsc1A8hGKRF3RIBNi_W2b/s1600/MH_Homegoods-0451.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj7s_tX-Pz1OrsUQSP7z5xSV4YFeHk6qm3h_pik7AqAEqNSKnBZEh1QLhMS0c5FWZC3ckdF7Pz-ieEzpdELCrN4p5UbK8yueiK1-a0iJ8OhNeIT_0NHI2E-VUfTsc1A8hGKRF3RIBNi_W2b/s1600/MH_Homegoods-0451.jpg"></a></div><br>I knew we would appreciate having a bench in our home office, but I never expected it would get as much use as it does each day.  <br><br><br><span style="color: #999999;"><b><strike>SIR</strike> SURE MIX A LOT!</b></span><br><br>Truly, mix and match it all.  Although I was only in the space for a couple of days, I fell for it hard.  There were so many elements that I loved, but what I really appreciated was the variety of finishes and patterns.  The variety and combinations really made the space come alive.  I had geometrics on the wall, florals on the floor, damask on the chair and bits of whimsy in the pillows.  <br><br><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjZAUZ_8Pl-3yyHKf977tuTaLP9dzqwZfkLWzdNb19kFAl-ljUdpjN2tcECyObnzY8aP3P3Nnm3QWAADP7ymh9Zc4kxxsTPcbJs4M6l5-7S7pMMewezGPR1EaKmBK-SwpB6f3jHiF6oD-89/s1600/MH_Homegoods-1043.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjZAUZ_8Pl-3yyHKf977tuTaLP9dzqwZfkLWzdNb19kFAl-ljUdpjN2tcECyObnzY8aP3P3Nnm3QWAADP7ymh9Zc4kxxsTPcbJs4M6l5-7S7pMMewezGPR1EaKmBK-SwpB6f3jHiF6oD-89/s1600/MH_Homegoods-1043.jpg"></a></div><br>Same story for hardware finishes; a bronze task lamp, rose gold accessories, nickel nail head trim and gold photo frames.<br><br>Beautiful wood toned console paired with a clean white parsons desk and a playful teal filing cabinet.  Acrylic pieces galore matched up with woven baskets.  Oh!  And a coral inspired bowl on top of a faux croc tray on top of a linen tufted bench.<br><br><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhkzQFMx3zujEPejR5B_mNIa9HjGpxvcQES6-AcWKVkrZS5gBcEhLEVROlbzWo_rKVZHXwX1lSztHhwD7LiNw3QpaEot_AzuBntykYja_SHFFCvsw_PlcPcZinQHKZMpKulaR7kWbJhOWIv/s1600/MH_Homegoods-0393.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhkzQFMx3zujEPejR5B_mNIa9HjGpxvcQES6-AcWKVkrZS5gBcEhLEVROlbzWo_rKVZHXwX1lSztHhwD7LiNw3QpaEot_AzuBntykYja_SHFFCvsw_PlcPcZinQHKZMpKulaR7kWbJhOWIv/s1600/MH_Homegoods-0393.jpg"></a></div><br>Everything in the space is all so different, yet it all works together whether through color, pattern or the story behind each piece.<br><br><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiTRLHQnPUfyqIxHypRXzJYM1S81ssuPAYhGaXkopnHwQXHmHtHfHYh6Ew8IiSYYnma-K_sd4_3fb7lZSEtdlopsHr2F56riJYbz7XKQD5weEN9QiHxWOtSK3hbbz8zMuFUBK99TSUHy8UU/s1600/MH_Homegoods-0248.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiTRLHQnPUfyqIxHypRXzJYM1S81ssuPAYhGaXkopnHwQXHmHtHfHYh6Ew8IiSYYnma-K_sd4_3fb7lZSEtdlopsHr2F56riJYbz7XKQD5weEN9QiHxWOtSK3hbbz8zMuFUBK99TSUHy8UU/s1600/MH_Homegoods-0248.jpg"></a></div><br><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"></div>Over the course of the day, I had the pleasure of meeting and chatting with a lot of media.  I shared with them many of these same tips and I really appreciated the opportunity to build a variety of new relationships.<br><br>Can you believe that everything in this space, minus my photos and children's art, is from HomeGoods?  Every last basket, organizer, accessory and piece of furniture.  I really appreciated that I was able to create a cozy home office that really reflected the way I live at our home each day.<br><br>What is something you are sure to inject into each space you design?  I would love to hear more about how you #makehomeyours.  <br><br><i>Photos by <a href="http://mattharrington.photo/" target="_blank">Matt Harrington</a> for <a href="http://www.homegoods.com/" target="_blank">HomeGoods</a>.</i><br><br>

A Happy Home Office with HomeGoods

There have been a lot of really amazing and fun opportunities that have come my way over my blogging years, and with each one, I find myself...

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IHeart Organizing is on Joss & Main!

Well friends!  Today is a big, BIG day for this gal!  I was recently invited to partner up with one of my most favorite online retailers, to curate a collection of some of my most favorite items! <br /><br /><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhpKUldUFYjAqet_VB5zvI1LKpusT7dr7V3rwFK9vtAwNI_apd-d-YQbfUra_aF4hv7ulNnpD6FdkZpkB_D_AXW_oL5Iw1n0nvqdRhkiJUayZNInhDAG7SRil9eLiUxbMeKgUZiKqf6i1XU/s1600/IHeart_Joss_Main.png" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhpKUldUFYjAqet_VB5zvI1LKpusT7dr7V3rwFK9vtAwNI_apd-d-YQbfUra_aF4hv7ulNnpD6FdkZpkB_D_AXW_oL5Iw1n0nvqdRhkiJUayZNInhDAG7SRil9eLiUxbMeKgUZiKqf6i1XU/s1600/IHeart_Joss_Main.png" /></a></div><br /><a href="https://www.jossandmain.com/?refid=curjm53" rel="nofollow" target="_blank">Joss & Main</a> is a daily flash sale site, which requires a <b>free</b> membership to check out their steals and deals, sometimes up to 70% off retail prices!  And once you are in, you are IN!  What I love most is that they bring new items each day, so the variety is always endless.  They provide instant access to home decor, jewelry, travel gear and household products that would be otherwise challenging to track down, allowing you to create a home that has a unique and collected over time feeling.  <br /><br />I recently updated <a href="http://iheartorganizing.blogspot.com/2010/01/iheart-my-home-home-tour.html" target="_blank">my home tour</a>, and many of my favorite items were sourced from Joss & Main.  So of course when they asked me to partner with them on a collection that was built to represent <i>my personal style</i>, I was over the moon thrilled!<br /><br /><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi9lj3CadnNKjj4SupO2C1mmZt7sW4dZQY5cjnjO22gwt3mMVJtDxlxZrZcgYVkLlOsPAfwvQgN-38oygYpZ_mK51whOxNZor2gfvSs54SOeWk7qIEbgOlfn0MkbgA12PRbD_ROaW5iO2WE/s1600/IHeart_Joss_Items.png" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi9lj3CadnNKjj4SupO2C1mmZt7sW4dZQY5cjnjO22gwt3mMVJtDxlxZrZcgYVkLlOsPAfwvQgN-38oygYpZ_mK51whOxNZor2gfvSs54SOeWk7qIEbgOlfn0MkbgA12PRbD_ROaW5iO2WE/s1600/IHeart_Joss_Items.png" /></a></div><br /><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"></div>Working with them is always a dream!  I was able to select items from their site that I use in my home, or have on my current wish list, and they built the iHeart Organizing collection from there.  Storage, furnishings, accessories and more storage galore!  So good!<br /><br />Because this is a flash sale, it will be over in a flash (<i>ending next Tuesday morning</i>)!  So if you are interested in seeing my collection, and maybe even doing a little shopping, you can <a href="https://www.jossandmain.com/?refid=curjm53" rel="nofollow" target="_blank">sign up and check it out here</a>.  You can also check out my guest post on their blog <a href="https://www.jossandmain.com/magazine/expert-ideas-for-a-neat-space-from-i-heart-organizing/" rel="nofollow" target="_blank">here</a>.<br /><br />Thank you to you all for your continuous support of iHeart Organizing and my partnerships!  Smooches pals!<br /><br /><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEib886ONINdjXX7gQZvibOuUdyEwxKBiFSTBjXbyBzWBCG5Eoj1wP7zr4Lv2ITwE_r8rPjIL4So_-g_NTkUtiwmPnccd1InMCEftEAJvYLpf2K41iY6bP_viO1qR1cGWz_qIH0p7vgbJkk/s1600/BlogClosing.png" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEib886ONINdjXX7gQZvibOuUdyEwxKBiFSTBjXbyBzWBCG5Eoj1wP7zr4Lv2ITwE_r8rPjIL4So_-g_NTkUtiwmPnccd1InMCEftEAJvYLpf2K41iY6bP_viO1qR1cGWz_qIH0p7vgbJkk/s1600/BlogClosing.png" /></a></div><br />

IHeart Organizing is on Joss & Main!

Well friends!  Today is a big, BIG day for this gal!  I was recently invited to partner up with one of my most favorite online retailers, to...

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Extra! Extra! Organizing Reads!

Hello hello! <br><br>There has definitely been a lot going on behind the iHeart scenes lately.  <a href="https://www.etsy.com/shop/IHeartOrganizing" target="_blank">My shop</a> has been super busy this month and I couldn't be more appreciative of your sweet support!  To say thank you, I am offering 20% off everything through this Saturday, January 17th <i>(not valid on prior purchases)</i> with code <span style="color: #a20067;"><b>IHEARTYOU20</b></span>.<br><br><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj7PwNjPWzshBSM4accL-9wgA1blwwXhH9NIRnL5CFSzB-h48JMLTyvb_BjRloynYkVhW_5Fi-dISgaCvif2Kta8nVjdJ8zaALNkaBriELf5A9DR4ZKLasVfGyJcXDhs79iymoKKtM3H5A5/s1600/IHeartPromo.png" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj7PwNjPWzshBSM4accL-9wgA1blwwXhH9NIRnL5CFSzB-h48JMLTyvb_BjRloynYkVhW_5Fi-dISgaCvif2Kta8nVjdJ8zaALNkaBriELf5A9DR4ZKLasVfGyJcXDhs79iymoKKtM3H5A5/s1600/IHeartPromo.png"></a></div><br><br><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"></div>We have also been making progress in the kitchen now that the holidays are over!  Woot!  Feels great to finally be getting our hands dirty!  Funny thing is that we are working on it as often as we can, yet really don't have a single project done to blog about.  So, I am thinking I will start doing a kitchen check-in every Friday, just to share progress and stay true to what a blog is really intended for; documenting the journey.  Hoping to get one out this week yet!<br><br>With all that we have going on, I have had a hard time adding extra project posts to my lineup, so I thought I would stop in to share where you can find a few more organizing related reads that I have worked on, including my most recent posts on the <a href="http://www.bhg.com/blogs/better-homes-and-gardens-style-blog/" target="_blank">Better Homes & Garden's Style Spotter's Blog</a>.<br><br><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgpCYJBEGk9wm9AgZRbA0uHfZU6SJJc2Ycx5BDg9ismZITMWi4zNBRiVYgMffGyPJ6Cqd1hKI9E1b-u-i2TxRXsqbOAU9fHVQu96Z-jnsHCcEaS-dGQabehOlIWpW_UIE7qjzO70F28dUo/s1600/style_spotters_masthead.jpg" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgpCYJBEGk9wm9AgZRbA0uHfZU6SJJc2Ycx5BDg9ismZITMWi4zNBRiVYgMffGyPJ6Cqd1hKI9E1b-u-i2TxRXsqbOAU9fHVQu96Z-jnsHCcEaS-dGQabehOlIWpW_UIE7qjzO70F28dUo/s1600/style_spotters_masthead.jpg"></a></div><br>Although the holidays have come and gone, you can be create a <a href="http://www.bhg.com/blogs/better-homes-and-gardens-style-blog/2014/12/04/organize-this-a-holiday-ready-home/" target="_blank">holiday ready home</a> far in advance this year!<br><br><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="http://www.bhg.com/blogs/better-homes-and-gardens-style-blog/2014/12/04/organize-this-a-holiday-ready-home/" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEioDzxpuD24f7Hvzt-14BmAVUdCI_Vmu5K2xHXwPPlGJZKbGn93-174vpkSVDUjKm9l2z0xs2VeK1z5-jwoHJGFLFUMvSjdu8IZiK6fc2oE9e1IkYUcBESMkQgPZvgZa8hEDfzU7GPCb5v8/s1600/HolidayReady.png"></a></div><br><br>I chatted about my personal goals to get organized in 2015 <a href="http://iheartorganizing.blogspot.com/2015/01/so-you-want-to-get-more-organized-in.html" target="_blank">here</a>, and over at BHG <a href="http://www.bhg.com/blogs/better-homes-and-gardens-style-blog/2014/12/18/getting-organized-in-the-new-year/" target="_blank">I broke it down even more</a>.<br><br><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="http://www.bhg.com/blogs/better-homes-and-gardens-style-blog/2014/12/18/getting-organized-in-the-new-year/" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgagkBSevydbTkAku7xkBpnhvQo_WCz8pec7fklTBoxgss0RSu5Ct76mXHEZ82uIEYESvVCIelOinsMfpkKw5DRYtrHZwUia2vbLomAmNLbKYykJkMNFWnG-hiIPtOW15OVppAo8RtQxMLV/s1600/Organized2015.png"></a></div><br><br>Not all laundry spaces are created equal, and most require you to get creative and truly <a href="http://www.bhg.com/blogs/better-homes-and-gardens-style-blog/2015/01/01/organize-this-space-saving-laundry-nook/" target="_blank">maximize the space available</a>. <br><br><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="http://www.bhg.com/blogs/better-homes-and-gardens-style-blog/2015/01/01/organize-this-space-saving-laundry-nook/" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjbrYNmHmBbNPIL_QlNS_HThnU-LBXLMWZxF_fO80VopWz4xmkVTHm1UFlwsHavBngGzKl2PlhW9CR715v0FU3AUlSZ7NwCGulM17EQS2G0pkROkcHcplxG6WhkbbKki4JoV3gYLMWmNwKe/s1600/SpaceSavingLaundry.png"></a></div><br><br>As much as I love organize my home with good basket, there are times when <a href="http://www.bhg.com/blogs/better-homes-and-gardens-style-blog/2015/01/15/organize-with-this-sanity-saving-gadgets/" target="_blank">gadgets can make the day run smoother</a> as well!<br><br><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="http://www.bhg.com/blogs/better-homes-and-gardens-style-blog/2015/01/15/organize-with-this-sanity-saving-gadgets/" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjDXFbXaJrUv4UGIFypRKkOhC3ZaXGipUC7sVzMnONM2JIgFKbgRc-d7GSlqUhAtM6FOzMq4Wv4lJW4UF22nejfKku-6u6fDnPDTwY4xSqhz6f2fNCLXsY55qOVG4lm4t1SQxlmCP8rmbxo/s1600/SanitySavingGadgets.png"></a></div><br><br>You can also spot iHeart Organizing being featured at a few fabulous places around the web.  One that may have knocked me right out of my chair is the Elle Decor shout-out, where they shared <a href="http://www.elledecor.com/design-decorate/ideas/diy-storage-solutions-house-beautiful#slide-14" target="_blank">15 Storage Solutions to Make Your Life Easier</a>. <br><br><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj7iCPDRstKymBXSNi0wXen2LHuigOcvHREPNr1DFESXhpeXnQ1c-LxaTv0pgvozYxSooJUwLrdvve_ZdVpE8WFDYWpDYHCTiqFNHDYVBx4ZU6TnVbyEIh7WshqaWAj5NuF5wQvNUlZOVhyphenhyphen/s1600/PlayroomCrateBookShelfElleDecor.png" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj7iCPDRstKymBXSNi0wXen2LHuigOcvHREPNr1DFESXhpeXnQ1c-LxaTv0pgvozYxSooJUwLrdvve_ZdVpE8WFDYWpDYHCTiqFNHDYVBx4ZU6TnVbyEIh7WshqaWAj5NuF5wQvNUlZOVhyphenhyphen/s1600/PlayroomCrateBookShelfElleDecor.png"></a></div><br><br>My pals over at Good Housekeeping rounded up <a href="http://www.goodhousekeeping.com/home/cleaning-organizing/organized-closet-lessons#slide-4" target="_blank">some pretty fantastic closets</a>, and it was such an honor to be included!<br><br><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh5P10RhWcuGnlLjwtj7K9H9OBzRDEUIgvc90n3XGXQ1BOO4q6qimR-48S6Sz_kxrn6LDpNKOscXaABK3k_izse9BMC2YixqHHRlduCR6Na7Nyib55CJ9FaRZT7kMuc1nLCG9HbXXkkth_Z/s1600/Clutter_Busting_Closet_Organization_GoodHousekeeping.png" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh5P10RhWcuGnlLjwtj7K9H9OBzRDEUIgvc90n3XGXQ1BOO4q6qimR-48S6Sz_kxrn6LDpNKOscXaABK3k_izse9BMC2YixqHHRlduCR6Na7Nyib55CJ9FaRZT7kMuc1nLCG9HbXXkkth_Z/s1600/Clutter_Busting_Closet_Organization_GoodHousekeeping.png"></a></div><br>When I first started blogging, I always loved reading a good magazine, but never thought I would actually be featured in one.  I still pinch myself each time it happens and count my lucky stars that big things can happen to those with big hearts.  Whenever I partner with a magazine, I still feel big happy butterflies, become school girl giddy and call everyone in my family.  Every opportunity I have had to collaborate with a publication has come due to all I have learned right here on this blog over the years.  <br><br>I kicked off 2015 with a first, which was being published in a UK based magazine, <a href="http://www.lifestyleetc.co.uk/" target="_blank">Living Etc</a>!  This magazine looks really fantastic, covering all topics home and lifestyle.  A friend is sending me a copy in the mail and I can't wait to flip through the beautiful pages!   <br><br><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiFVrDs5sNoOQ1WMY17sgHP1XoZn_Yx7vKdcC6aGlB6o2sax5_airq_YJZno7yy28yCHhB_wyvsbPfnihQuSi9vQ3YbsOiz_ddGL8s1kfNmGNYa9t-MlLzxrE57oRD4jUNhyphenhyphenlmIoUkwTk8P/s1600/LivingEtc.png" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiFVrDs5sNoOQ1WMY17sgHP1XoZn_Yx7vKdcC6aGlB6o2sax5_airq_YJZno7yy28yCHhB_wyvsbPfnihQuSi9vQ3YbsOiz_ddGL8s1kfNmGNYa9t-MlLzxrE57oRD4jUNhyphenhyphenlmIoUkwTk8P/s1600/LivingEtc.png"></a></div><br>Remember that one time <a href="http://iheartorganizing.blogspot.com/2012/10/a-surprise-craft-room-before-after-story.html" target="_blank">I surprised a local friend with a top-to-bottom craft room overhaul</a>?  I think it is safe to say that the project has filled my heart with more joy than any other.  Knowing how special the project is made it even more exciting to see it mentioned in the premier issue of Room to Create!<br><br><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj8xW_6Qr6OZonMECrB-uOcIEA6rojmVaQ3Nb-QyCxZQthlHAd0fJ6B8QVtu7gT45EeTUWiHxzW0dLK25yYlV1QKJzLwtMKPMM_RGMdnOV-cM35pPlJV6luBhSgxykIyvMnK6r1AF6UwzLk/s1600/RoomToCreate.png" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj8xW_6Qr6OZonMECrB-uOcIEA6rojmVaQ3Nb-QyCxZQthlHAd0fJ6B8QVtu7gT45EeTUWiHxzW0dLK25yYlV1QKJzLwtMKPMM_RGMdnOV-cM35pPlJV6luBhSgxykIyvMnK6r1AF6UwzLk/s1600/RoomToCreate.png"></a></div><br><br>I have a few business bucket list goals, and was able to check one really big box off of my list.  I am not sure if any of you are familiar with the super talented Martha Stewart (of course you are!), but this girl right here may have been asked to offer advice and tips in the February 2015 <a href="http://www.marthastewart.com/" target="_blank">Martha Stewart Living</a> magazine!  Say WHAT?!<br><br><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh1y0i9JZTqFR86dIG3mIXnsEwk1HXvwKXCgO4awvwzP-3_jwYQp9XzO8nv5sFibNDsLfkJqlFcfiYJhxaOrsRkfT354RoxJKOpxQUbiCGxbw5IrnzOcmT4TOkyOxMtZxQNTRoHEETvU1Sb/s1600/MarthaFeature.png" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh1y0i9JZTqFR86dIG3mIXnsEwk1HXvwKXCgO4awvwzP-3_jwYQp9XzO8nv5sFibNDsLfkJqlFcfiYJhxaOrsRkfT354RoxJKOpxQUbiCGxbw5IrnzOcmT4TOkyOxMtZxQNTRoHEETvU1Sb/s1600/MarthaFeature.png"></a></div><br>I have looked up to Martha since long before becoming a homeowner.  The work done by her and her team has always left me feeling motivated and encouraged to do great things within our own home.  I love her clean and simple style, her beautiful products and of course her website, magazine and books.  To say I am now a tiny piece of one of those publications gave me good reason to pop the cork and sip some champagne. <br><br><br><br><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgD94gaFkFl3D-a2LDGC9cuj_sRLo-cPivoVjrSxMD4YYD4mvWKraY4KJIEYHuWixf1Mle3H3vC8CtvciBoQ21sEOIcevf2z8SnyMZByZJ7WzGjNc4DeySUpunpEjkwx7cOnH7yPyEKLSRG/s1600/wm-best-of-the-net-sm+copy.png" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgD94gaFkFl3D-a2LDGC9cuj_sRLo-cPivoVjrSxMD4YYD4mvWKraY4KJIEYHuWixf1Mle3H3vC8CtvciBoQ21sEOIcevf2z8SnyMZByZJ7WzGjNc4DeySUpunpEjkwx7cOnH7yPyEKLSRG/s1600/wm-best-of-the-net-sm+copy.png"></a>This little site of mine, I'm gonna let it shine!  IHeart Organizing was included in this year's <a href="http://www.workingmother.com/content/working-mother-2015-best-net" target="_blank">Working Mother's Best of the Net for 2015</a> list!  I am lumped in with so many other sites I admire and love, so I am feeling pretty smitten with the news.  Woot!<br><br><br><br><div style="text-align: center;"><span style="color: #afcdd7;">_______________________________________ </span></div><br>And last but certainly not least, a GIANT thank you to everyone to expressed interest in my 2015 contributor openings!  The response was absolutely INCREDIBLE!  I know I have been doing a lot of gushing already, but I felt so incredibly blessed to have such a talented group of folks write in and share with me their love for all things home and organizing. <br><br><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiCN6-sBJ_7q1GmJDk6yCXFNqr_oT_5AuDi0EZoONve7Zsq2n4i69cLvrp6P1Pbo4aPmFkSYZQePrhzVIqST2FGvR6l90SljPNfXz2DeR53DL_Lz3S7hTN3Z5zxgJ0lJ-zmXbe3OjbZtCc/s1600/uheart.png" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiCN6-sBJ_7q1GmJDk6yCXFNqr_oT_5AuDi0EZoONve7Zsq2n4i69cLvrp6P1Pbo4aPmFkSYZQePrhzVIqST2FGvR6l90SljPNfXz2DeR53DL_Lz3S7hTN3Z5zxgJ0lJ-zmXbe3OjbZtCc/s1600/uheart.png"></a></div><br>I <i>finally</i> have narrowed it down to add a few new fresh faces and am in the process of finalizing all communications.  Contributors start back up next week, so stay tuned for updates to my sidebar and the My Team tab at the top of the page.  I couldn't be more pumped about what is ahead!<br><br><div style="text-align: center;"><span style="color: #afcdd7;">_______________________________________ </span></div><br>And a very important reminder that this blog would not be possible without my monthly sponsors.  They are each amazing companies that I love and support right back, you can check each of them out below or on the sidebar.<br><br><div class="nopin"><table style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: left; width: 500px;"><tbody><tr align="center"> <td width="250"><a href="http://www.alejandra.tv/3-day-get-organized-video-series-iho/?utm_source=iheartorganizing.blogspot.com&utm_medium=banner&utm_content=ad1&utm_campaign=3DVS"><img src="http://i917.photobucket.com/albums/ad14/iheartorganizing/Blog%20Images/Alejandra_zpsdc0df525.png"></a></td> <td width="250"><a href="http://www.stylebookapp.com/?q=iho"><img src="http://i917.photobucket.com/albums/ad14/iheartorganizing/Blog%20Images/Stylebook_zps4cc959af.png"></a></td> </tr><tr align="center"> <td width="250"><a href="http://fridgecoaster.com/"><img src="http://i917.photobucket.com/albums/ad14/iheartorganizing/Blog%20Images/FridgeCoaster_zps8ede3bcf.png"></a></td> <td style="text-align: center;" width="250"><a href="http://www.letteredandlined.com/"><img src="http://i917.photobucket.com/albums/ad14/iheartorganizing/Blog%20Images/LetteredLined_zps021687da.png"></a></td> </tr><tr align="center"> <td width="250"><a href="http://simplify101.com/create-home-reference-binder.php"><img src="http://i917.photobucket.com/albums/ad14/iheartorganizing/Blog%20Images/Simplify101_zpsdec867bd.png"></a></td> <td style="text-align: center;" width="250"><a href="http://www.etsy.com/shop/ATime4Everything?utm_source=blog&utm_medium=sidebar&utm_campaign=iheart"><img src="http://i917.photobucket.com/albums/ad14/iheartorganizing/Blog%20Images/ATimeForEverything_zps827767a8.png"></a></td> </tr><tr align="center"> <td width="250"><a href="https://www.etsy.com/shop/cape27"><img src="http://i917.photobucket.com/albums/ad14/iheartorganizing/Blog%20Images/Cape27_zps564d5529.png"></a></td> <td width="250"><a href="http://www.jototes.com/"><img src="http://i917.photobucket.com/albums/ad14/iheartorganizing/Blog%20Images/JoTotes_zpse95f3db7.png"></a></td></tr></tbody></table></div><div style="text-align: left;"><br></div><div style="text-align: left;"><br><i>Two weeks are remaining to link up your organizing projects as part of this month's organizing challenge!  Check them out and link up <a href="http://iheartorganizing.blogspot.com/2014/12/monthly-organizing-challenge-lets-get.html" target="_blank">here</a>!</i><br><i><br></i> <br><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhYHyjEmnKwCbbcRjrm1Y_xhfQBp__bCK-ydDtMQ9YVWgo8y2JNRc2J_VxPh_Q2ER4BKrIBM1c8yXBgnLblur_-ywIUXqbaMQmsFby6ScBsPvbYhjc_SYn8T1Vi5d95phsAfnP93m58qv4/s1600/BlogClosing.png" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhYHyjEmnKwCbbcRjrm1Y_xhfQBp__bCK-ydDtMQ9YVWgo8y2JNRc2J_VxPh_Q2ER4BKrIBM1c8yXBgnLblur_-ywIUXqbaMQmsFby6ScBsPvbYhjc_SYn8T1Vi5d95phsAfnP93m58qv4/s1600/BlogClosing.png"></a></div><i><br></i></div><a href="https://www.pinterest.com/pin/create/extension/" style="background-color: transparent; background-image: url("data:image/png; border: medium none; cursor: pointer; display: none; height: 20px; left: 78px; opacity: 0.85; position: absolute; top: 152px; width: 40px; z-index: 8675309;"></a>

Extra! Extra! Organizing Reads!

Hello hello! There has definitely been a lot going on behind the iHeart scenes lately.  My shop has been super busy this month and I couldn...

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Extra! Extra! Organizing Reads!

First, let's do a little happy dance to welcome the weekend!  Anyone have anything fun and exciting planned?  Traveling?  Some organizing?  A project?  Maybe some guest entertaining?  I love this time of the year when things start to slow down a little and we have more flexibility in our weekends, so we will be entertaining <i>and</i> projecting.  Football Sundays are always good too!<br /><br />We are going to put some energy into our storage room and will also be tackling our paint storage problem (since we removed it from our storage room earlier this year).  So fingers crossed we make some progress and I have a few fun new things to share next week.<br /><br />Today, I am popping in to give you some extra organizing reads to check out around the blogosphere.  As many of you know, not only do I write at this place I call home, I also contribute over at <a href="http://www.bhg.com/blogs/better-homes-and-gardens-style-blog/" target="_blank">Better Homes and Garden's Style Spotter's Blog</a> and occasionally work with other websites and blogs as well.  <br /><br /><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgpCYJBEGk9wm9AgZRbA0uHfZU6SJJc2Ycx5BDg9ismZITMWi4zNBRiVYgMffGyPJ6Cqd1hKI9E1b-u-i2TxRXsqbOAU9fHVQu96Z-jnsHCcEaS-dGQabehOlIWpW_UIE7qjzO70F28dUo/s1600/style_spotters_masthead.jpg" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgpCYJBEGk9wm9AgZRbA0uHfZU6SJJc2Ycx5BDg9ismZITMWi4zNBRiVYgMffGyPJ6Cqd1hKI9E1b-u-i2TxRXsqbOAU9fHVQu96Z-jnsHCcEaS-dGQabehOlIWpW_UIE7qjzO70F28dUo/s1600/style_spotters_masthead.jpg" /></a></div><br />My most recent articles on the Style Spotter's Blog have been inspired by our climate changes and the upcoming holidays.   Our air is getting crisp, the ground is frosting over, candles are being lit, delicious treats are being baked (by our local grocery store) and the bin of winter gear has been pulled out of the garage.  Autumn is officially here!<br /><br />For those that love to bake, how do you best store all of your baking supplies?  <a href="http://www.bhg.com/blogs/better-homes-and-gardens-style-blog/2014/09/11/organize-this-baking-supplies/" target="_blank">In this article</a>, I touched on everything from mixers to sprinkles and even those awkwardly shaped baking pans.<br /><br /><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="http://www.bhg.com/blogs/better-homes-and-gardens-style-blog/2014/09/11/organize-this-baking-supplies/" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjhBFOSsmYDQ95iCKszPD81SLsuCQhZ-KmvTrQ_0-0E_h4PMJT5rCFMlf1NB7xSGTi7SPV5mrbvmflAWWUf9WqxUW0CBORnwvBxJi2QR0CxboOErHUfrC9PDbTaIfyHYDFP-Ep79W7chR8/s1600/OrganizeThis_BakingSupplies.png" /></a></div><br />Not only is it baking season, it is entertaining season!  With the holidays quickly approaching, do you have a favorite way to store all of your cherished serving pieces and linens?  I personally love a good <a href="http://www.bhg.com/blogs/better-homes-and-gardens-style-blog/2014/09/25/organize-this-china-cabinet/" target="_blank">china cabinet</a>!<br /><br /><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="http://www.bhg.com/blogs/better-homes-and-gardens-style-blog/2014/09/25/organize-this-china-cabinet/" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjl5_UWb5VXqqTCtcr4lW9_N8cxIJ1ViYCvUgv_YDk0w_SioBj5xYsDYYdm5cWZ39mVP3Ojg_6IAn1gQQL0ILFKHZb7VWxXc6lGBwnd5oXZ25oicf19b1dV3LsJPLAJl0b5dGGgYsUTngQ/s1600/OrganizeThis_ChinaCabinet.png" /></a></div><br /><br />And now that winter gear is officially out of the bin and coats are on hangers in our closet, I thought I would share <a href="http://www.bhg.com/blogs/better-homes-and-gardens-style-blog/2014/10/09/organize-this-multi-functional-entryway/" target="_blank">my favorite entryway alcove</a> and why I think it works so well!<br /><br /><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj_DPsM7jBY_3ToqWUMjrpOgPn9_FUT-Hg7QQTNk1uDSQ9EiIXhZTJhAE-JB8ja5hOq4iznGB5ZkCyFxgzoii-nfo-_8s596XFRXB0MxU6nBQPF2rWzEKE9Y3CygQxLFzLT3izGza4E1SA/s1600/OrganizeThis_Entryway.png" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj_DPsM7jBY_3ToqWUMjrpOgPn9_FUT-Hg7QQTNk1uDSQ9EiIXhZTJhAE-JB8ja5hOq4iznGB5ZkCyFxgzoii-nfo-_8s596XFRXB0MxU6nBQPF2rWzEKE9Y3CygQxLFzLT3izGza4E1SA/s1600/OrganizeThis_Entryway.png" /></a></div><br /><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"></div>Last month I shared my excitement when I found out I was featured by my gal pal Oprah.  Oh wait?  She still doesn't know who I am?  A girl can pretend right?  Anyway... her peeps featured me again!  Twice in two months is totally making me blush!<br /><br /><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="http://www.oprah.com/createyourspace/Bathroom-Makeovers-Bathroom-Decorating-Ideas" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgDq7wFzejoTvbaYx2leFWWvzY9uDzKmjlyoDVii_oaoeYqfK68nsVLLIAGOEP9_J_IJNDHhxLh6lrBE_s5lUSHqiTcEIQuVqJ6qS1Fl8BiTmgfaGWEZVKiYmiGJkLWammD0u3zq3A6qxo/s1600/OprahBathroomDrawerBeforeAfter.png" /></a></div><br /><a href="http://www.oprah.com/createyourspace/Bathroom-Makeovers-Bathroom-Decorating-Ideas" target="_blank">This round-up</a> includes quick and easy yet super inspiring tips for making updates to your bathroom.<br /><br /><br /><a href="http://iheartorganizing.blogspot.com/2013/01/diy-cereal-box-drawer-dividers.html" target="_blank">Our cereal box dividers</a> have officially been Bob Vila approved!  They were also featured on his website which is sharing amazing <a href="http://www.bobvila.com/diy-drawer-dividers/47871-a-storage-hacks-for-the-best-dorm-room-on-campus/slideshows?bv=wn#.VDg8K-dRl8t" target="_blank">organizational solutions for dorm dwellers</a>.<br /><br /><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEic1B-fetyll2ApIwAgULZzNSpDlhuavfx6KW6bqfxwwzz9P5WOadRa3bfmptrfDk6knb_GcTUPlGGM2OJylKe32M7eM9l5AIeWUUzrs7zz18beMQRN2ZYDG9zNHtpM0a3zccJXoMqXFX8/s1600/BobVilaCerealBoxDividers.png" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEic1B-fetyll2ApIwAgULZzNSpDlhuavfx6KW6bqfxwwzz9P5WOadRa3bfmptrfDk6knb_GcTUPlGGM2OJylKe32M7eM9l5AIeWUUzrs7zz18beMQRN2ZYDG9zNHtpM0a3zccJXoMqXFX8/s1600/BobVilaCerealBoxDividers.png" /></a></div><br /><br /><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"></div>I am continuing to contribute to the <a href="http://thedailymom.com/" target="_blank">The Daily Mom App</a> feed, which I still love for a variety of reasons.  The daily jokes are also a huge hit with the kiddos. <br /><br /><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhopBN97hZOwf4SArqjKCDKb5ElQTsnIshe5CieirepiWKEcP1C8XblouKV14Jt2ltHNLTV21U7Zv5eUuj7_jmo_su1fjkOnmWSMjSYvIeFSaD7aFtgwFUEEsNH9YLtTcBrWhR0Hp2qU-s/s1600/DailyMom.jpg" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhopBN97hZOwf4SArqjKCDKb5ElQTsnIshe5CieirepiWKEcP1C8XblouKV14Jt2ltHNLTV21U7Zv5eUuj7_jmo_su1fjkOnmWSMjSYvIeFSaD7aFtgwFUEEsNH9YLtTcBrWhR0Hp2qU-s/s1600/DailyMom.jpg" /></a></div><br /><br />Earlier this week I had the privilege of being interviewed by the folks over at <a href="http://www.goodhousekeeping.com/" target="_blank">Good Housekeeping</a>!  Their name is one I have admired since my childhood years and the opportunity to collaborate with them on an article is a really big milestone moment for myself, and one that I can't wait to share with their biggest fan, my grandmother.<br /><br /><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="http://www.goodhousekeeping.com/home/cleaning-organizing/jen-jones-i-heart-organizing-tips" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhpSwANobuFwBW6sJ7MQB1GbHKbNwhjkFmBL6k1sXNks4_mZUx3xgB1mUZ5C_LO4u6frEOdMCCrMAPXRcrFRr8uyiZcAbZvpmJoLxKJmzYPoQX7WoO4Gl3PEUwp3QsTIeI0reQgnAYzyNI/s1600/Good_Housekeeping_Organizing_Feature.png" /></a></div><br />Although I love to organize, I would never proclaim to be the most organized woman on the internet (yet so honored they would title the article as though I am).  However, I did share <a href="http://www.goodhousekeeping.com/home/cleaning-organizing/jen-jones-i-heart-organizing-tips" target="_blank">ten super simple tips for starting an organizing project</a> and chatted about a few lessons learned along the way. <br /><br /><br />It was an honor to celebrate my five year blogging milestone in September and I just wanted to thank you all for your kind comments, emails and notes on social media, congratulating and encouraging me along the way.  Blogging is never something I take for granted and I hope that I still have a few more years ahead of me.  At the end of the day, you pals keep me motivated to continually tackle spaces and share it here, so consider this as me hugging you in a very bear-like way.  <br /><br />Last, but certainly not least, this blog would not be possible without my monthly sponsors.  They are each amazing companies that I love and support right back, you can check each of them out below or on the sidebar.<br /><br /><div class="nopin"><table style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: left; width: 500px;"><tbody><tr align="center"> <td width="250"><a href="http://www.alejandra.tv/3-day-get-organized-video-series-iho/?utm_source=iheartorganizing.blogspot.com&utm_medium=banner&utm_content=ad1&utm_campaign=3DVS"><img src="http://i917.photobucket.com/albums/ad14/iheartorganizing/Blog%20Images/Alejandra_zpsdc0df525.png" /></a></td> <td width="250"><a href="http://www.stylebookapp.com/?q=iho"><img src="http://i917.photobucket.com/albums/ad14/iheartorganizing/Blog%20Images/Stylebook_zps4cc959af.png" /></a></td> </tr><tr align="center"> <td width="250"><a href="http://fridgecoaster.com/"><img src="http://i917.photobucket.com/albums/ad14/iheartorganizing/Blog%20Images/FridgeCoaster_zps8ede3bcf.png" /></a></td> <td style="text-align: center;" width="250"><a href="http://www.letteredandlined.com/"><img src="http://i917.photobucket.com/albums/ad14/iheartorganizing/Blog%20Images/LetteredLined_zps021687da.png" /></a></td> </tr><tr align="center"> <td width="250"><a href="http://simplify101.com/create-home-reference-binder.php"><img src="http://i917.photobucket.com/albums/ad14/iheartorganizing/Blog%20Images/Simplify101_zpsdec867bd.png" /></a></td> <td style="text-align: center;" width="250"><a href="http://www.etsy.com/shop/ATime4Everything?utm_source=blog&utm_medium=sidebar&utm_campaign=iheart"><img src="http://i917.photobucket.com/albums/ad14/iheartorganizing/Blog%20Images/ATimeForEverything_zps827767a8.png" /></a></td> </tr><tr align="center"> <td width="250"><a href="http://theinkroad.com/"><img src="http://i917.photobucket.com/albums/ad14/iheartorganizing/Blog%20Images/inkroad_zpsfa9566a3.png" /></a></td></tr></tbody></table></div><div style="text-align: left;"><br /></div><div style="text-align: left;"><br />Cheers to five more years of organizing fun and to the weekend!  And who is ready for the next organizing link party?  I will have that to you soon!</div>

Extra! Extra! Organizing Reads!

First, let's do a little happy dance to welcome the weekend!  Anyone have anything fun and exciting planned?  Traveling?  Some organizin...

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