Thursday, February 25, 2010

Online Library Lists

One of my favorite new features on the Delaware County Library System website is their library lists option.

Simply search for a title using the online catalog. When you find the title you like, check the checkbox next to it, and click on the "Save to My Lists" button at the top of the list. Sign into your record with your name and library card number. Use the drop-down menu to select "Create a New List." Type a name for your list, and click on the "Submit" button. The title you selected is now saved to that list, and you can log into your record at any time to view your lists.

I have a list for organizing research, as well as for fun reading. Now I can check my lists before I go to the library, or even use the library's catalog computers to check them while I'm there!

Monday, February 22, 2010

Procrastination Story

CBS Sunday Morning had a great story about procrastination. It seems there are a lot of new books and studies on the subject. If you or someone you know is "time-challenged," take a look at this report: http://www.cbsnews.com/stories/2010/02/21/sunday/main6228451.shtml?tag=contentMain;contentBody.

Wednesday, February 3, 2010

Wardrobe Strategy

If you're sick of digging through piles of clothes and trying on ten outfits each morning, maybe it's time to take stock of your wardrobe. Forgetting that you have things, unworn items with tags still hanging from months ago, and re-buying things are all signs that you need a wardrobe overhaul.

If you're ready to "go minimal," try this method: look at your life and what you where when. Then do the math to make sure you have no more clothes than you would need for two weeks, in any season. This means that even if you can;t do laundry for a few weeks, you're still covered, but the laundry pile doesn't overflow with a month's worth of clothes.

For example, say you work in an office five days a week, go to the gym three days a week, and like to garden on your weekends. With this system, you would have no more than ten pairs of work pants, ten work shirts, ten suits, etc. for each season. You would have no more than six sets of gym clothes for each season. You would have no more than four grungy gardening/housework outfits, and you would have no more than 14 t-shirts and 14 sweaters.

If you can live with less, great!

If you're really ambitious, try using layers in basic colors to skip the seasonal shift altogether. Try wearing black pants, jeans, and khakis that can transition easily between seasons. Cardigans, blazers, and light jackets also work well.

Some exceptions include dresses, tuxedos, and costumes for special occasions. But be honest with yourself! Will you wear it again, and will it fit?

Attack of the Closets

If one of your winter organizing projects is tackling your overflowing bedroom closet, here are a few ways to do it.

Yes, Maybe, No
The most aggressive process, this method is meant for people who have a pretty clear idea of what they want to purge. The “yes” pile is for items to keep, “no” is to give away, and “maybe” is to decide later. After the first round of sorting, take a break, then return to divide the “maybe” pile into “yes” and “no.”

Past, Present, Future
Your wardrobe may span several time periods: now, high school, when I lose twenty pounds, if I ever get invited to a gala, etc. These clothing items can be sorted into “past,” “present,” and “future” piles. To reclaim closet space, it may be a good idea to set limits on how many “past” and “future” items stay in your closet. Consider implementing rules such as not keeping anything more than two sizes too large or too small, or not keeping anything over five years old.

Always, Sometimes, Never

If you’re not sure how to start sorting, use this method to sort your clothing into piles for items you wear at least once a month, wear at least once a year, or haven’t worn in years. Look at your piles, and consider letting go of items you haven’t worn in years. For items worn once a year, consider how many of these items you really need to have on hand.

When putting items back into your closet, use a system that works for you. It doesn’t have to be color-coordinated or “like with like” if that’s not how you will look for items. Consider putting outfit separates together, sorting by frequency of use, or sorting by purpose if you wear a uniform or business attire to work. As with any organizing project, avoid buying boxes, shelves, and hangers before sorting and purging.