tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-21800836691291930152024-02-19T09:15:02.989-08:00ROAD TO SIMPLIFYClaires Healthy Homehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/07591046931633390994noreply@blogger.comBlogger27125tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2180083669129193015.post-64831558771032202322011-10-22T16:08:00.001-07:002011-10-22T16:08:43.030-07:00Cha-Cha-Changes!<p><font size="5" face="Arial">Redesigning my blog and vision. Hope you will hope over to my </font><a href="http://claireshealthyhome.blogspot.com/"><font size="5" face="Arial">New</font></a><font size="5" face="Arial"> one and follow there!</font></p> <p><font size="5" face="Arial">Bear with me as I finish the construction.</font></p> <p><font size="5" face="Arial">I will also be setting up a FAMILY blog soon if you want to keep up with our journey of preparing for a year long US tour in an RV.</font></p> <p><font size="5" face="Arial">Stay tuned….</font></p> <p><font size="5" face="Arial">Have a blessed day,</font></p> <p><font size="6" face="AR BERKLEY">Claire</font></p> Claires Healthy Homehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/07591046931633390994noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2180083669129193015.post-24087403840897330322011-10-21T15:31:00.001-07:002011-10-21T15:31:24.410-07:00Day 14: Slave or Master of Clutter?<p><font size="4" face="Arial">Are you a ‘slave’ to your clutter? Seriously…think about this. Is clutter causing your life to stall? </font></p> <p><font size="4" face="Arial">I know for myself this can be true! The more clutter I see in my house, the more cluttered I feel which leads to procrastination, feeling uninspired and un-motivated.</font></p> <p><font size="4" face="Arial">There are many days when I have a list of tasks to accomplish, but I must first clean up the visual clutter to feel ready to tackle the list. </font></p> <p><font size="4" face="Arial">So this led me to think…am I a ‘slave’ to my clutter? Does it control or contribute to decisions and actions in my life? Hmmm…deep food for thought. </font></p> <p><font size="4" face="Arial">One thing I do know…I want less stuff. The less I have, the less I need to give it my time.</font></p> <p><font size="4" face="Arial">What about you? Cluttered house, cluttered mind?</font></p> <p><font size="4" face="Arial">Have a blessed day!</font></p> <p><font size="6" face="AR BERKLEY">Claire</font></p> Claires Healthy Homehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/07591046931633390994noreply@blogger.com2tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2180083669129193015.post-68933600282630244042011-10-21T14:59:00.001-07:002011-10-21T14:59:04.054-07:00Day 13: Cleaning Supplies<p><font size="4" face="Arial">Today we are clearing out the cleaning supplies and getting down to the necessities!</font></p> <p><font size="4" face="Arial">Here is a picture of where I started….</font></p> <p><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh4yNvRWy4YdYMx-5NPrvDRkLxXrPXAUctGFk310iSgJZ1FyZBS4k74zUcUA6FlpKDzjsQlxfoLLzu-rSJquis4Y5sq_ihfVZ87Cmu_5yb6065A1c66N2YezQeJyRDLdlVwGh8V4LLTmq4/s1600-h/100_4033%25255B11%25255D.jpg"><img style="background-image: none; border-bottom: 0px; border-left: 0px; padding-left: 0px; padding-right: 0px; display: inline; border-top: 0px; border-right: 0px; padding-top: 0px" title="100_4033" border="0" alt="100_4033" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh52SqwPdtFwZuBIbyMVv10fUuTyATOYSUWzcQMAyUx1jvxxLxbqpxrvl0uplIyCsgHdjVA8AEQIP31ZWcSt9cpDGLu0lPD6jcniEIn0WA88cEIExJogkx1u0EMcfdLCavENHrR1KjbAq8/?imgmax=800" width="429" height="286"></a></p> <p><font size="4" face="Arial">I changed my whole cleaning routine completely back in April 2011. This involved removing all the toxic cleaners and replacing them with natural ones. You can read more about that quest </font><a href="http://claireshealthyhome.myshaklee.com/us/en/about_my_shaklee_story.html"><font size="4" face="Arial">HERE</font></a><font size="4" face="Arial">, but bottom line was because they were making me sick.</font></p> <p><font size="4" face="Arial">And this is a picture of what I have now! So much better, right? Waaaaay less to store. LOVE the idea of a concentrate.</font></p> <p><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgzfgc13jTAj52CVLihjd9kBGP0mS0QOOjOk59nWgH6jWUy8I88glUjK6ZBHczKwSqNUauJOEmph0sEWHgB0HrR_2eT87NkOzV0WzqQAVzPtlCm0CusGAUDVg0SSVvbS3xFuzInFWX_P00/s1600-h/100_4039%25255B12%25255D.jpg"><img style="background-image: none; border-bottom: 0px; border-left: 0px; padding-left: 0px; padding-right: 0px; display: inline; border-top: 0px; border-right: 0px; padding-top: 0px" title="100_4039" border="0" alt="100_4039" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi2vHxMy82G1GHWehpOoay2Aqo2nsaVkva2PaWxYmiYfbdbo5MktnzmLEmg8y0mARqJ9vOF2AaTZ5ru59idcmHsVGk8HNwiYp3IGQAXMR6AUbFoCfAIcc3InltX8E7SjzpexiwVl5yoJVY/?imgmax=800" width="404" height="491"></a></p> <p><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEid7koeZoJKKqV46FqsaEMl0nKt-DDJjdTHTALnJYineJ6A8ODeucmXRT_2xybhtRLoqOsqj3jqskFW7sO5NnjE3KFr19lF85sIglS1cl8F4gUcIrbSkZxMw7VIGDXkuWzix04ohdOAZiE/s1600-h/100_4038%25255B7%25255D.jpg"><img style="background-image: none; border-bottom: 0px; border-left: 0px; padding-left: 0px; padding-right: 0px; display: inline; border-top: 0px; border-right: 0px; padding-top: 0px" title="100_4038" border="0" alt="100_4038" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhSyXdHvh-PPVRzfQgrrO9gqpvuh0ap40Ayw-CLQZg6XF535xnhFvAsFozMQGNd66Msi0wQ_wzoCpPIZYIzmBQqjPqeUe6eAFrtRIeGz26CxvuY4iK4fkCIlk7_nyFNpjGLRzy4UuA_58I/?imgmax=800" width="404" height="309"></a></p> <p><font size="4" face="Arial">I keep everything in a caddy so I can take it with me from room to room and it provides good organization which in turn leads to less clutter. </font></p> <p><font size="4" face="Arial">These 4 bottles and small jar clean everything in my house from the mirrors to the floors. Safe on every surface and safe for people and pets.</font></p> <p><font size="4" face="Arial"></font></p> <p><font size="4" face="Arial"></font></p> <p><font size="4" face="Arial"></font></p> <p><font size="4" face="Arial"></font></p> <p><font size="4" face="Arial"></font></p> <p><font size="4" face="Arial">If you are curious what I use…you can learn more about it </font><a href="http://claireshealthyhome.myshaklee.com/us/en/products.php?sku=89108"><font size="4" face="Arial">HERE</font></a><font size="4" face="Arial">.</font></p> <p><font size="4" face="Arial">How about you? How do you store your cleaning supplies? Are they hidden and lost in cupboards or do you use everything you have? Sort through it to keep the ones use.</font></p> <p><font size="4" face="Arial">Have a blessed day!</font></p> <p><font size="5" face="AR BERKLEY">Claire</font></p> <p><font size="4" face="Arial">Need to catch up?</font></p> <p><font size="4" face="Arial"><a href="http://roadtosimplify.blogspot.com/2011/10/day-1.html">Start with Day 1</a></font></p> Claires Healthy Homehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/07591046931633390994noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2180083669129193015.post-65176721117954479742011-10-16T21:40:00.001-07:002011-10-16T21:40:02.049-07:00Day 12: Kids Clothes<p><font size="4" face="Arial">Welcome back!! How are the kids rooms going? My kids all grumbled at first when it was time to declutter and now they are soooo happy! It feels more calm for them and my youngest has discovered ‘lost’ toys and has been busy playing. </font></p> <p><font size="4" face="Arial">We are finishing up the kiddos rooms today by going through the clothes. Now, I have all boys….I think it does mean not quite as many clothes than if I had a girl. My boys are no frills…all about comfort. My 14 yr old wears sport shorts year round with short sleeve tees only. The only request this mama has is that he has a pair of ‘nicer’ shorts for church. Of course, this helps keep his laundry under control, too. I had the boys help me with this task so I could get their feedback on what they like and wear. We also take the time to save things they have outgrown to hand down to the other boys or friends. We have appreciated this from others as well!</font></p> <p><font size="4" face="Arial">We also don’t have dressers. We are blessed with big closets so we use closet organizers with drawers. This saves so much space in their rooms for other things.</font></p> <p><font size="4" face="Arial">Here is a pic of my oldest boys’ closet after we cleaned and organized….</font></p> <p><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhqpXr0t0ncUeqTcgKdj47SB1cLXAC2PArmn68cveTmSHl3xORF4NcWifP9SSleOU5iU61HqKVOGAoEjZ8111vMbWZEPLFHiLaY4ONr_yQ-u6kXMjeUre3x8WGx_h8z0fNG6fqT4iK0zjc/s1600-h/100_4030%25255B9%25255D.jpg"><img style="background-image: none; border-bottom: 0px; border-left: 0px; padding-left: 0px; padding-right: 0px; display: inline; border-top: 0px; border-right: 0px; padding-top: 0px" title="100_4030" border="0" alt="100_4030" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj3CmKJ5PrkzwN6iVGPpyQtL7LZ9BHII6uVRFQrrcj-hc77B6JvN08fC3UpVmhTPd72VQuAHbmmtHV_X6wHCq8gvkKE5ZtGw2CX3dH-dkmRb_2GaX9Zw1_w3eyFe8lKOdAzKgs89-KlSLg/?imgmax=800" width="403" height="537"></a></p> <p><font size="4" face="Arial">He does have a few things hanging out of view…the rest are in the drawers.</font></p> <p><font size="4" face="Arial">Happy decluttering!!</font></p> <p><font size="4" face="Arial">Have a blessed day,</font></p> <p><font size="6" face="AR BERKLEY">Claire</font></p> Claires Healthy Homehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/07591046931633390994noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2180083669129193015.post-14449975610474249902011-10-12T14:39:00.001-07:002011-10-12T14:39:56.792-07:00Day 11: Kids Toys #2<p><font size="4" face="Arial">With 3 boys you can bet we have LOTS of nerf guns and Legos! Great toys….just a lot of pieces.</font></p> <p><font size="4" face="Arial">Finding a home for toys can help eliminate clutter. I have tried MANY different ways to store the legos and our current and last method we have been using for quite awhile and it will definitely stay. I actually got the idea from my mom who did the same storage solution with my brothers’ legos when he was younger.</font> </p> <p><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhSb-SfiAmzKfipmWGDKJP2tkn3xqtY7Qma2R5WZo9YPAa4n8Dme5XFgbW9ciNJyVL5x3Ka9WkyARWdjspupgP8giePvs0EbQxQauKY3zlGNtLSxiGhg0zNGjtxQTcurqdB4PJXZBxGlJ8/s1600-h/100_4036%25255B6%25255D.jpg"><img style="background-image: none; border-bottom: 0px; border-left: 0px; padding-left: 0px; padding-right: 0px; display: inline; border-top: 0px; border-right: 0px; padding-top: 0px" title="100_4036" border="0" alt="100_4036" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjnhc7uuvfLwRzxjM3fucXJWVuOyfWo_DK7XKLC1UqHCqK-xMGjbquQ_u_Ws37Pg_r2m3Yy-dmqvk1fifiPWtFFiYI6g3koXCD4rJ7TqAGMSNqWkGakffuzxiygP4hGpuYwbmorUTMSpdU/?imgmax=800" width="421" height="514"></a></p> <p><font size="4" face="Arial">The bin on the right is where we store the pile of loose legos for building.</font></p> <p><font size="4" face="Arial">The drawers are for storing his special pieces and creations. If they are full then he knows he needs to make some choices on what can stay built and what needs to go back in the big bin.</font> </p> <p><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjkcrLHNzEucsbUBJyAwbOJl3EPfJnNQKCCNigjZNFEwOWLH4UcKfOnOGQCFukndhm8mwEWHVtTwf6lD3NBNfNIXFcnk-Q9ZXxV54HA0ZyXs0ak77UYX7kQu5np2DtfaKrwPvo01dEB_Bw/s1600-h/100_4037%25255B6%25255D.jpg"><img style="background-image: none; border-bottom: 0px; border-left: 0px; padding-left: 0px; padding-right: 0px; display: inline; border-top: 0px; border-right: 0px; padding-top: 0px" title="100_4037" border="0" alt="100_4037" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi1A3-Zqnafmnb9eXDSvwCHU6puaXHbF6erIctpMa-4xRMU03GjBdXL3ptq7uIs1qwysvJdL3C_h0u_PZClHt15lyVXfOQgMDYHLo__t7mnGiYqsgy3xuujHF9AVQJ9I3BOjaPoRPbv9f8/?imgmax=800" width="439" height="493"></a></p> <p><font size="4" face="Arial">This is the best part and the tip my mom gave me! Put them in a sheet or blanket inside the bin. We used a twin sheet. Then you can lift the whole sheet out for the kids to play with on the floor. The legos stay on the blanket for easy pick up! Simply gather the ends and put back in the bin. Super easy and the kids like that they can spread them out to see what pieces there are.</font></p> <p><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhQVzRgfQMnjJHslYqETgLwnm2oiHeoF0tqxMGc3bCNw0puJUQd2glThMv4NM_itAXStSL6AcdIZ3xk59yyB0yuXWTUX9frnmAE43MpO9eAVzTSUYRwqUfLd5av65Jeda6jtD6-37Bb3t0/s1600-h/100_4031%25255B7%25255D.jpg"><img style="background-image: none; border-bottom: 0px; border-left: 0px; padding-left: 0px; padding-right: 0px; display: inline; border-top: 0px; border-right: 0px; padding-top: 0px" title="100_4031" border="0" alt="100_4031" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEheRxGxC-3LZ0tw0zcyUibW1P6x0pr97e_HUKIKSdAtrd2LoJcBpsuM3zUBL7TSav9BdiRzm1ZkPVsvNlFYHP-QoNyToEpngv9G0_bzO3sxwr-SUp5gZKaVJBuZToR7c10n13Y95VJUDKs/?imgmax=800" width="404" height="307"></a></p> <p><font size="4" face="Arial">My older boys are more lego collectors now so they store theirs on their shelves in their rooms.</font></p> <p><font size="4" face="Arial">Nerf guns are the other toy abundance around here. My husband and I came up with a great solution for us. Peg Board!</font></p> <p><font size="4" face="Arial"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgicFQT1n9NFqDbh-e8cgjb__eat8XRokr6ErZwmgvv1IaOHd0DvUxq3QSSMVbHVBZyMNLlWgMTpxtVy0rQoB_RYpmudThp6gEkXWL-npgnfrN4-SIQaSfEyT5iEQUmTPCdiGzpW78NK-s/s1600-h/100_4034%25255B6%25255D.jpg"><img style="background-image: none; border-bottom: 0px; border-left: 0px; padding-left: 0px; padding-right: 0px; display: inline; border-top: 0px; border-right: 0px; padding-top: 0px" title="100_4034" border="0" alt="100_4034" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj6ZvruAT3XD7viOst1vsjs6KotsFhdag7Ffnhklr5RsJrHrLXY6Tr-OQeyxKpeT41YvJN-6PQ90slsZdqL-X0ClfKrhQqV7eXZJ501-RwZ0b6I3sENVcigZKNgBwhM_rxfIfCHWQttIVo/?imgmax=800" width="448" height="275"></a></font></p> <p><font size="4" face="Arial">This one is under a loft bed.</font></p> <p><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEipq_tX4Dkxmm8coc_UGIrnVA8ZnCMnYcwvRMjdYOAVE7BxvP0BIF8JRjxzL0mZjs0pjbTdN_CJGMyklfQzSAaKSMTKBiOHh_d4dQWoXPdcI4bliiRQOdSngp0YusEs3ZR9iucU3LiFkKs/s1600-h/100_4035%25255B6%25255D.jpg"><img style="background-image: none; border-bottom: 0px; border-left: 0px; padding-left: 0px; padding-right: 0px; display: inline; border-top: 0px; border-right: 0px; padding-top: 0px" title="100_4035" border="0" alt="100_4035" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjyCQFcYIzcNduZq5f_kWlR5ghOObwascYQT_76ZVtT6X0UpGPJ8nuaUmQvgB8D_4hZQK9pedhuFknB5kAw5SxwUnp3RV7mKau2jEL1Ji0F3XIcrQGkwk2WS41aO-F3J8BLWpTRJyoEBRA/?imgmax=800" width="398" height="543"></a></p> <p><font size="4" face="Arial">This one is behind the bedroom door.</font></p> <p><font size="4" face="Arial">So, there you have it! Some simple storage solutions for all you out there with boys like us.</font></p> <p><font size="4" face="Arial">What ways do you control toy clutter?</font></p> <p><font size="4" face="Arial">Have a blessed day!</font></p> <p><font size="6" face="AR BERKLEY">Claire</font></p> Claires Healthy Homehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/07591046931633390994noreply@blogger.com4tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2180083669129193015.post-2702434552012897342011-10-12T13:50:00.001-07:002011-10-12T13:50:38.539-07:00Day 10: Kids Toys<p><font size="4" face="Arial">This one is a constant clutter for us with three boys! We are always looking for new ways to help the kids control it whether it’s passing it on to another child or organizing.</font></p> <p><font size="4" face="Arial">Here is a repost of how I help my youngest sort his toys….</font></p> <p><font size="5" face="Browallia New">WOW!! PLEASE tell me I am not the only house with a messy kid room?!<br>My youngest loves to play and play and play, but when it comes to clean up... not so much.</font> <p><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjtWu5KT4v11ynmk2FGM7hTRmGYqSvFKHhyTaBomAZ1_CS3dHjgMeeZbgF6SbmXguXY_nt_2F_hyMSTRm6fsrGSECGhyphenhyphenoGoDFYf1LPoLO2wiPoPZAUixvTfhnErQskl8dlS_iZ0JAML7-k/,%20not%20so%20fun%21%20%3Ca%20href="><img border="0" alt="" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjtWu5KT4v11ynmk2FGM7hTRmGYqSvFKHhyTaBomAZ1_CS3dHjgMeeZbgF6SbmXguXY_nt_2F_hyMSTRm6fsrGSECGhyphenhyphenoGoDFYf1LPoLO2wiPoPZAUixvTfhnErQskl8dlS_iZ0JAML7-k/s320/100_3504.JPG"></a> </p> <p><font size="5" face="Browallia New">In his room he has cubbie shelves with bins for all of his small toys.<br>When the room gets like this, it tells me there is too much STUFF!<br>Time to SIMPLIFY and declutter.<br>I like to have my kids help with this process for a few reasons....<br>1. It's their stuff<br>2. It's their mess<br>3. Prime moment to teach the technique<br>After all, they won't always have mom to help....<br>So we separated the the legos, nerf guns & bullets and stuffed animals from the small loose toys. These toys get put away in their own place.<br>I pulled 3 bins out near the pile of small toys and told youngest it was time to downsize. We need to fit all of the STUFF into 2 bins.</font></p> <p><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiXGA7z_ASY6DmJSJRUSkqhPJxr7IKKYD8NvL6-gTwgRa2Cj9frV9vJBSwOQOxntKszjmC609tBTPbWtW_I0O04J7sWFeDExv4tXoZnRukWNlswcrCQAnno2wH8X-alQwgDG0PoJ9g7Bfg/s1600/100_3506.JPG"><img border="0" alt="" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiXGA7z_ASY6DmJSJRUSkqhPJxr7IKKYD8NvL6-gTwgRa2Cj9frV9vJBSwOQOxntKszjmC609tBTPbWtW_I0O04J7sWFeDExv4tXoZnRukWNlswcrCQAnno2wH8X-alQwgDG0PoJ9g7Bfg/s320/100_3506.JPG"></a><br><font size="5" face="Browallia New">He got right on it and was able to sort and toss it all quite quickly. He ended up with a good size bag that he doesn't need anymore.<br>Doesn't it look fabulous?! He was so proud of himself and I am proud to see him take such responsibility.</font></p> <p><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjAJQIuhu_SdU9NQXrowWBGUEV8Ji-1s4j4ViBR7F5-DtBjaPpa-Q8AeQX2nayAuCry23YJ7A5Tz_cqjz2nB9WDIsFZdVPFlGnVWWkeZFVgQmuD1kEU5Bo3R_WzX0UVEOBQEFRfTew-qkk/s1600/100_3507.JPG"><img border="0" alt="" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjAJQIuhu_SdU9NQXrowWBGUEV8Ji-1s4j4ViBR7F5-DtBjaPpa-Q8AeQX2nayAuCry23YJ7A5Tz_cqjz2nB9WDIsFZdVPFlGnVWWkeZFVgQmuD1kEU5Bo3R_WzX0UVEOBQEFRfTew-qkk/s320/100_3507.JPG"></a></p> <p><font face="Browallia New"><font size="5"> He loves it when his room is clean, too! I try to give lots of praise and really hype up how great it FEELS to have a clean room. Hopefully this will pay off in the long run.<u></u><u></u></font></font><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg7Uc61_N5PkNWnWAumvAAleYaGgBLOuP0dRBEfF3YRq3slZmZgZ84NgV85vLYyUTqjWBmo0E3Op4PqINrW_gIrK1h-KDv22P6Paa7imCQarc2EC1sgsjL3EVokRDWRpD5Tit99fuO0Dew/s1600/100_3513.JPG"><img border="0" alt="" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg7Uc61_N5PkNWnWAumvAAleYaGgBLOuP0dRBEfF3YRq3slZmZgZ84NgV85vLYyUTqjWBmo0E3Op4PqINrW_gIrK1h-KDv22P6Paa7imCQarc2EC1sgsjL3EVokRDWRpD5Tit99fuO0Dew/s320/100_3513.JPG"></a> </p> <p><font size="5" face="Browallia New">He is overwhelmed if I tell him to clean his room, but if I break it into tasks he feels capable.<br>I think it helped having a specific task.</font> </p> <p><font size="4" face="Arial">Give it a try with your kiddo!<br>Hope it helps you too!<br>Post a comment if you have tried this or if you have another idea!</font></p> <p><font size="4" face="Arial"><br>Have a Blessed Day!</font><br><font size="6" face="AR BERKLEY">Claire</font></p> Claires Healthy Homehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/07591046931633390994noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2180083669129193015.post-11533483884664511442011-10-11T09:23:00.001-07:002011-10-11T09:23:51.409-07:00Day 9: Jewelry<p><font size="4" face="Arial">I keep my jewelry in my bathroom because of the great storage I have in there. I also have waaaaaayyyy too much that I do not use. In my quest to simplify, I went through it with the thought of keeping my favorite pieces as well as some specialty and <font size="6" face="AR CARTER">FUN</font> pieces.</font></p> <p><font size="4" face="Arial">Knowing what I have and being able to see/find it means it will get used! </font></p> <p><font size="4" face="Arial">This <a href="http://roadtosimplify.blogspot.com/2011/10/day-1.html">series</a> isn’t about organization, but take a look at <a href="http://iheartorganizing.blogspot.com/2011/02/iheart-valentines-day-and-easy-diy.html">THIS</a> by <a href="http://iheartorganizing.blogspot.com/">I Heart Organizing</a>! I see this project in my near future. Simple and Lovely…</font></p> <p><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg0Mq7jn-wuoB3xf3rm8JhnemIlAExqCdTmKnVmVPhukhl1tdjieOdIyG_OWo-8qr_whoVJGAuJ0nKQs09rE26-llPzse3zNHn8ZVLFC3QSXzT1Xc8kSgcTjILENA6VL-S0lpuDsxmVXRA/s1600-h/JewelryOrganizer1%25255B4%25255D.jpg"><img style="background-image: none; border-bottom: 0px; border-left: 0px; padding-left: 0px; padding-right: 0px; display: inline; border-top: 0px; border-right: 0px; padding-top: 0px" title="JewelryOrganizer1" border="0" alt="JewelryOrganizer1" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhndtnJLn-BXlJ74oE8PgG08BwHbK-0TNj_5Fbga4BIWUX96Q6oS-IJMtUtW-WxUygl8uDoDNh7Xujw8gYxeUNFfDsiAJ617RygqzuVTgEVycCRP81U_JKlnRkN5IipTWqM5vNTqnnYGjk/?imgmax=800" width="404" height="604"></a></p> <p><font size="4" face="Arial">She is one of my favorite bloggers.</font></p> <p><font size="4" face="Arial">What about you? What type of jewelry do you have? Too much? Does it get used? How do you store it?</font></p> <p><font size="4" face="Arial">Have a blessed day!</font></p> <p><font size="6" face="AR BERKLEY">Claire</font></p> Claires Healthy Homehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/07591046931633390994noreply@blogger.com2tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2180083669129193015.post-80609743431515090442011-10-10T08:55:00.001-07:002011-10-10T08:55:09.119-07:00Day 8: Master Bathroom<p><font size="4" face="Arial">Welcome to Day 8 of </font><a href="http://roadtosimplify.blogspot.com/2011_09_01_archive.html"><font size="4" face="Arial">31 Days of Decluttering</font></a><font size="4" face="Arial">! If you are just joining us we are tackling the <font size="5" face="AR DARLING">STUFF</font> in our homes for 31 days to reduce the noise of clutter. I was inspired by </font><a href="http://www.thenester.com/2011/08/youre-invited-31-days-of-change.html"><font size="4" face="Arial">the Nesters challenge of 31 Days of Change</font></a><font size="4" face="Arial"> and am purposing to complete this before the holidays hit as well as fulfilling a personal goal as explained </font><a href="http://roadtosimplify.blogspot.com/2011/09/31-days-to-declutter.html"><font size="4" face="Arial">here in Step 1</font></a><font size="4" face="Arial">.</font></p> <p><font size="4" face="Arial">Today we are diving in to the linen closet. </font></p> <p><font size="4" face="Arial">Remember to ask yourself the 3 QUESTIONS in your decision making….</font></p> <p><font size="4" face="Arial">1. Do I LOVE and USE it? (keep)</font></p> <p><font size="4" face="Arial">2. Can I donate it?</font></p> <p><font size="4" face="Arial">3. Should it be thrown away?</font></p> <p><font size="4" face="Arial">Now get to it! Set aside just 15 min to finish the task…and you are on your way to decluttering that linen closet. And because I am such a visual person, here are a few pics of pretty linen closets to share.</font></p> <p><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiYGNLYycg1xGZRHNy4LlpHxktYyBe0XhT4v0EEhogsKCuBxZqGvgThDZQQVdoslTvT-GBpxjCvxHKQrcKYqKb5mFcIMRlTyl16LPfuqL73lT7xCuP6Gt3-6puhqWCkJ1BzlmzFsq8Rs5w/s1600-h/linen%252520closet%25255B4%25255D.jpg"><img style="background-image: none; border-bottom: 0px; border-left: 0px; padding-left: 0px; padding-right: 0px; display: inline; border-top: 0px; border-right: 0px; padding-top: 0px" title="linen closet" border="0" alt="linen closet" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgZTTCbA1EhXAHlsrHnbT189SsBlRxydSZfZytJ-uvDPdur8MgVugbFPuVuwms8yJg0EWjdaYbXEMPIEePbhE2vclatKX-wNNwSWB9lPenooTFp0y8_wGVHFH7nvEuXzH9YgEIfGXC4WiQ/?imgmax=800" width="404" height="537"></a></p> <p><a href="http://www.google.com/imgres?q=pics+of+linen+closets&hl=en&sa=X&biw=1366&bih=664&tbm=isch&prmd=imvns&tbnid=1-RnkndpJYHjnM:&imgrefurl=http://www.familycircle.com/family-fun/organization/ideas/linen-closet-organization/&docid=UgVTlBl0VhJP9M&w=300&h=400&ei=cxSTTt_VDqX8iQLhuPTLCA&zoom=1&iact=hc&vpx=1131&vpy=125&dur=1779&hovh=259&hovw=194&tx=137&ty=129&page=1&tbnh=151&tbnw=110&start=0&ndsp=25&ved=1t:429,r:8,s:0">via web</a></p> <p><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjCFsBSPRG-RKW9a2wc_Ocfn2pjeabau_BfCO5vXOfIkIEBocXp9XP9BZ-v9DFLdB9qBwl7Pbo6r2jD4rmuIuKA3sml_qgZEFcCDg5MoHoLVkBR9PuU8MFzglpfnBqWag4ubWGcQdyx3Vk/s1600-h/linen%252520closet%2525202%25255B4%25255D.jpg"><img style="background-image: none; border-bottom: 0px; border-left: 0px; padding-left: 0px; padding-right: 0px; display: inline; border-top: 0px; border-right: 0px; padding-top: 0px" title="linen closet 2" border="0" alt="linen closet 2" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhy_ca_4LhUtz6XdNp3wD4IxDG6c5YEXfDWf1rUUXhGIz6G27RDdshC13_r-JIXHtwTSHRQuKixaDIFgo2CrD4J846QPB9A1Bzj_wDZgM1cu_cn5dpDcgwMKjNL6bdJl0qdBQAGussoB5I/?imgmax=800" width="404" height="869"></a></p> <p><a href="http://www.google.com/imgres?q=pics+of+linen+closets&hl=en&sa=X&biw=1366&bih=664&tbm=isch&prmd=imvns&tbnid=SHULKw1aD9NA1M:&imgrefurl=http://raindrops-on-roses-tiffany.blogspot.com/2010/03/green-spring-clean-day-6-linen.html&docid=DvdkL9uci6s77M&w=234&h=508&ei=cxSTTt_VDqX8iQLhuPTLCA&zoom=1&iact=hc&vpx=1059&vpy=175&dur=983&hovh=331&hovw=152&tx=120&ty=177&page=5&tbnh=129&tbnw=59&start=103&ndsp=25&ved=1t:429,r:23,s:103">via web</a></p> <p> </p> <p><font size="4" face="Arial">Love the white and baskets! Visually appealing and calming….</font></p> <p><font size="4" face="Arial">Have a blessed day!</font></p> <p><font size="6" face="AR BERKLEY">Claire</font></p> Claires Healthy Homehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/07591046931633390994noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2180083669129193015.post-61157279601731866232011-10-10T08:23:00.001-07:002011-10-10T08:23:14.655-07:00Day 7: Words for Thought<p><font size="6" face="AR CENA"></font> </p> <p><font size="5" face="Arial">Philippians 4:11-12 </font> <p><font size="5" face="Arial">I am not saying this because I am in need, for I have learned to be <font size="6" face="AR DARLING">content</font> whatever the circumstances. I know what it is to be in need, and I know what it is to have plenty. I have learned the secret of being <font size="6" face="AR DARLING">content</font> in any and every situation,whether well fed or hungry,whether living in plenty or in want.</font> <p> <p><i><font size="6" face="AR CHRISTY">Clutter:</font></i> <p><font size="6" face="AR CHRISTY">A confused or disordered state</font></p> <p><font size="6" face="AR CHRISTY"></font> </p> <p><font size="6" face="AR CENA">Simplify: </font></p> <p><font size="6" face="AR CENA">to reduce to fundamental parts; to make less complicated</font></p> <p><font size="6" face="AR CHRISTY"></font> </p> <p><font size="4" face="Arial">Have a blessed day!</font></p> <p><font size="6" face="AR BERKLEY">Claire</font></p> <p><font size="6" face="AR CENA"></font></p> Claires Healthy Homehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/07591046931633390994noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2180083669129193015.post-36907234278313943832011-10-08T22:26:00.001-07:002011-10-08T22:26:48.725-07:00Day 6: Master Bathroom<p><font size="4" face="Arial">We are moving on from the master closet to the bathroom! In our home we are blessed to have a master bathroom. It also has GREAT storage! Lots of cupboards! But last time I looked in an RV this definitely is NOT the case. I will have my work cut out for me. For now, baby steps…just decluttering….I will worry about space later.</font></p> <p><font size="4" face="Arial">Here is a pic of the storage….</font></p> <p><font size="4" face="Arial"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjw6RuzsCPMi5GUtRBz0gdj0nND3t1pdkYKRCkb-c2hjiyR16ukyk8PK5kaNdWIW3ZIdf6RMx1KEhT621Ng8wsl2KV14jxQ7GJIuJtQAQfKCldKZfbUhnwMsfYdoBENht6hJ_y0S8ThzMA/s1600-h/100_4026%25255B6%25255D.jpg"><img style="background-image: none; border-bottom: 0px; border-left: 0px; padding-left: 0px; padding-right: 0px; display: inline; border-top: 0px; border-right: 0px; padding-top: 0px" title="100_4026" border="0" alt="100_4026" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiRvxkKYtnidAmO6ZMB2Q7Kh6pakhebjH3mmhfurrOFfpVs7KZfdwkIfGeAJ7VcTUW1rfS6uJ0M7KSSiTozJo-F8dDAJtq5hPWinp78zHRInK7xaf_nkyq2hK23pAWkWD0MU70nhpE5E6k/?imgmax=800" width="404" height="304"></a></font></p> <p><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjNReiDkD3dnE6jNIEgvVTis3KeizsblFW9dxUESU4bKKl0p8Ms4Ng6WOVI8AaMvVgUV1pi1YMssSwou6G318holh2Dp7ScCJf2x2aAoTQXV0-_Ip0vhpCZDQrWghngS-_ecPf-FXFQE9A/s1600-h/100_4027%25255B7%25255D.jpg"><img style="background-image: none; border-bottom: 0px; border-left: 0px; padding-left: 0px; padding-right: 0px; display: inline; border-top: 0px; border-right: 0px; padding-top: 0px" title="100_4027" border="0" alt="100_4027" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj4ru35B-XQf-VoDcQVFl0_ibs3fHl-QA5_SFdDa_RltlTAp4LWwbfm3tZcIkwYsEjBpzQLhwq1xr0AcLTkSwh8IC38AImqLdpmV9hTnhJZapKurkroizjcv9EeWjLUlEOephkfyTRLhH8/?imgmax=800" width="412" height="525"></a></p> <p><font size="4" face="Arial"></font> </p> <p><font size="4" face="Arial">I think since we are biting off small chunks lets break it down. Today just go through your toiletries. I actually organized this cupboard in the summer. </font></p> <p><font size="4" face="Arial"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEioj5z5JZcPcTujPl2jq_9ut8waVBlUlHGM14iawkazFpB9vg_j49T9339gObN5qokUPMpqZS6bPhn16Bi0bwpq8DZLaXP-gYPIZ2wedZAaxTMJj1UaXcwnqo07XYiEaRZLxTJKd8lI8NE/s1600-h/100_4028%25255B6%25255D.jpg"><img style="background-image: none; border-bottom: 0px; border-left: 0px; padding-left: 0px; padding-right: 0px; display: inline; border-top: 0px; border-right: 0px; padding-top: 0px" title="100_4028" border="0" alt="100_4028" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgpa0efbrpc8VK2KD0htjcakTvgKn4KfInKDi_2ETzdLS3VzeCefNlcLZmpLdw7P5mIkcsxnXGEiqNZh5oXoGi8WUmRc8kR9Bf6E4_G2hIM8RUi2beTgaUp1xT8qU4eU4Qd_1aNhP8344Q/?imgmax=800" width="404" height="304"></a></font></p> <p><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhpEho04whMp_yHmkyIfQx7GgHh2OqSm3zfu5nYQ2sQ4Q8msZZYOmGeEPjmAvLJjyj8yKRHFKBXs1I25MWK8QpQqPO2fc1D2C20hxXUAeHYEtyY-YEPipjhbpmT1FZzSFD87Al8c3rgEdU/s1600-h/100_4029%25255B6%25255D.jpg"><img style="background-image: none; border-bottom: 0px; border-left: 0px; padding-left: 0px; padding-right: 0px; display: inline; border-top: 0px; border-right: 0px; padding-top: 0px" title="100_4029" border="0" alt="100_4029" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhVcatuqp4FJl-WQj4oIU5T-v3jSPhFnBL9OLDXqRORxv2kYTrAyJUv3HvtG9bnvsLvdyE5hZVFuvl84DE5JCSdLmuN5GgfelJDouhQeZ0ksv0UmOTsupbkM6RC6Vodd0AYFGtDF-mvSjY/?imgmax=800" width="404" height="304"></a></p> <p><font size="4" face="Arial"> Surprisingly I was still able to toss or give away a huge bag! I find that if I have too much stuff then I forget what I have in there and make double purchases. I also have been switching out soaps for ones that are soap-free. I have found two things with this. One…NO chemicals. Two….No soap scum in my shower! LOVE that! You can check out what I use <a href="http://claireshealthyhome.myshaklee.com/us/en/category.php?main_cat=Beauty&sub_cat=ProSante">HERE</a> and <a href="http://claireshealthyhome.myshaklee.com/us/en/products.php?sku=39073">HERE</a>. Also <a href="http://claireshealthyhome.myshaklee.com/us/en/products.php?sku=00015">THIS</a> is the BEST for bubble baths and shaving your legs. Leaves them soft and again, no soap scum. I mean really…who likes to clean that anyway?</font></p> <p><font size="4" face="Arial">So get on it and get to tossin’ in your bathroom.</font></p> <p><font size="4" face="Arial">Have a blessed day!</font></p> <p><font size="6" face="AR BERKLEY">Claire</font></p> Claires Healthy Homehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/07591046931633390994noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2180083669129193015.post-66314875908288039482011-10-05T21:34:00.001-07:002011-10-05T21:34:04.788-07:00Day 5: Purses & Bags<p><font size="4" face="Arial"></font> </p> <p><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi-ev9Wp9imB4rojVBaIvBgHHa66-PYiRNRIR98lKe3ISSIub-2tcUUeOyPm5ElAE-uYVBCZ4S72MAGad6hux0qikBMwv4Xq8QCBxb1ojytgXllW7l5PboOzaSibmflgDz9wrAF2F02s1Y/s1600-h/image%25255B2%25255D.png"><img style="background-image: none; border-bottom: 0px; border-left: 0px; margin: 0px; padding-left: 0px; padding-right: 0px; display: inline; border-top: 0px; border-right: 0px; padding-top: 0px" title="image" border="0" alt="image" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiZalflzgPhaD-p6fDSadAahGwBzwr0stAE8sUfmp35rZ9M2Et1V6yoh0yaDS_z7EzYhFzMRbjEvgsyTWLzeb73176sEwikCLXuogHE6MaHgzOoPLJEbPD8IUxYeHYhvnkIK3_lZPsySs0/?imgmax=800" width="129" height="102"></a></p> <p><font size="4" face="Arial">Hello! If you are new here or missed a few days, we are on day 5 of 31 Days of Decluttering. I was inspired to join in with the <a href="http://www.thenester.com/2011/09/31-days-participants.html">Nesters 31 Days of Change</a> as explained <a href="http://roadtosimplify.blogspot.com/2011_09_01_archive.html">HERE</a>. It’s not too late for you to dig in to decluttering with us! We are taking our time and giving just 15 - 30 to tackle the daily task. Scroll down to see Days 1,2,3, & 4 on the right side and click on it. It will get you up to speed.</font></p> <p><font size="4" face="Arial">So, my purses and bags are stored in my master closet and this will wrap up this area. You may have yours stored in another spot.</font></p> <p><font size="4" face="Arial">I used my ‘pull everything out into a pile’ trick to see what I was dealing with.</font></p> <p> </p> <p><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhXy7KhCBaMrazWRoMRniuosnriIVYPSfqJrPYYAQmwfZMGoCEK3Sg9nzSZvlrXemuqbCfzP0tMfTzDyQQO755yXg-x-asoBJ9nxnCTuflIpAqov-mcAiWJ2a4nwoFk9U_bnLadN93YjHI/s1600-h/100_4020%25255B16%25255D.jpg"><img style="background-image: none; border-bottom: 0px; border-left: 0px; padding-left: 0px; padding-right: 0px; display: inline; border-top: 0px; border-right: 0px; padding-top: 0px" title="100_4020" border="0" alt="100_4020" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEisWsLDfvuuFX7EAaEmAWGCVBsSdlXH14LFLLgr7b0IMGQ7ciMQsVbg6jOZ9tUs8rSy7Tm9HYYALwrBIEQhwedzMTWMC5ngHb0U6Kxy5ZTHyFOzydKWWH6KZWkRmWx7ouEGwFIb-ap3mgs/?imgmax=800" width="357" height="347"></a></p> <p><font size="4" face="Arial">WOW! There were bags and purses I didn’t even know I had!</font></p> <p> </p> <p><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjnmd3qjpbj1GLRxCoGC75YnxRoiAF99LTaq-OCBxx_jv8p6Iz0Fk-L9vGzGrSP7Ajr6D1ZQeeSLfp3mVwGWHTkzyO2p3NubPS_u_UAtPOmWrK9DFdDKH5fkevOLWNAkjZsbUkfHDUUuls/s1600-h/100_4021%25255B13%25255D.jpg"><img style="background-image: none; border-bottom: 0px; border-left: 0px; padding-left: 0px; padding-right: 0px; display: inline; border-top: 0px; border-right: 0px; padding-top: 0px" title="100_4021" border="0" alt="100_4021" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEin9mSmI76gTRnxngwpqfPpJgzZZ-x8i_xUrh1E2RNemkQEx_wRncRjwL-dzNgmVBlE0KkRR981srT05gpWqVdKsD25_IOkKffuChb0d5TLZSOu-h_lIFhp529F6JMbWkd2ZCvUhUc9_zw/?imgmax=800" width="314" height="397"></a></p> <p><font size="4" face="Arial">I realized that I really don’t use most of these so I was able to purge a lot! On the left side (I don’t know why this pic is blurry?) there is this weird wasted space between the dresser and cube shelving. We have always just shoved our travel bags there and piled them up. Great system, right? lol I put 3 hooks on the wall and was able to hang them up. Now I will be able to find the one I need without pulling out the whole pile. I know, I know, big stuff! I think it’s the type A in me that gets giddy about my things organized. </font></p> <p><font size="4" face="Arial">But the biggest thrill is the EMPTY shelves!! And, no, I am not planning on filling them up. Remember our <a href="http://roadtosimplify.blogspot.com/2011/09/our-dream.html">BIG plan</a>? I’ve got to downsize people. This is just a tiny start but it feels good to see.</font></p> <p><font size="4" face="Arial">Anyone out there a bit type A like me and get super excited about open space? Leave a comment….so we can rejoice together!</font></p> <p><font size="4" face="Arial">Have a Blessed Day!</font></p> <p><font size="6" face="AR BERKLEY">Claire</font></p> <p> </p> <p><font size="4" face="Arial">psstt…come back tomorrow for more!</font></p> Claires Healthy Homehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/07591046931633390994noreply@blogger.com2tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2180083669129193015.post-70994578502279764592011-10-04T20:26:00.001-07:002011-10-04T20:26:11.405-07:00Day 4<p><font size="4" face="Arial">I finished up my clothes!! We ended up with 3 bags to donate. What about you? Did you find things not needed anymore?</font></p> <p><font size="4" face="Arial"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEimTXDw96x78Im2_WMTc-_aGpQfxYPWwGVAtZKlzm6p1PhIuBU5_tz1Fi_y25leEgJr8StIinAdJRVVcxEfwurpmRagEMnUJY5yJhkcQV3dPcMUNZRBz3BvIATw1UGntJ0LVO8LAmAebDk/s1600-h/100_4015%25255B7%25255D.jpg"><img style="background-image: none; border-bottom: 0px; border-left: 0px; padding-left: 0px; padding-right: 0px; display: inline; border-top: 0px; border-right: 0px; padding-top: 0px" title="100_4015" border="0" alt="100_4015" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgzAKXroW0WnJrBl48CHUqzr4vEd9Kf1BkruOAZg_t7T4h_T0nXj_3ocjiuCfv9gAnX_LHaQZk5RyXu44nVz_U9MXSvJ2lSuE9g3tcMBQUBPObVhbzAZVCtt340Qkr5gMH5dR4KjPo1dSg/?imgmax=800" width="231" height="239"></a></font></p> <p><font size="4" face="Arial">Ahhhh….love it when things look neat and orderly.</font></p> <p><font size="4" face="Arial">Tomorrow we will tackle purses and bags!</font></p> <p><font size="4" face="Arial">Have a blessed day!</font></p> <p><font size="6" face="AR BERKLEY">Claire</font></p> <p><font size="4" face="Arial">psssst….just joining in? <a href="http://roadtosimplify.blogspot.com/2011/10/day-1.html">START HERE</a></font></p> <p><font size="4" face="Arial"></font></p> Claires Healthy Homehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/07591046931633390994noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2180083669129193015.post-90366543264381266432011-10-03T21:27:00.001-07:002011-10-03T21:27:42.426-07:00Day 3<p><font size="5" face="Arial">Welcome to day 3 of the 31 Days of Decluttering!</font></p> <p><font size="5" face="Arial">How did you do with your shoes? I stored my summer shoes in a seasonal bin I have in my closet and put out only the shoes and boots I will wear now until spring. Saves me a little visual clutter which makes me happy.</font></p> <p><font size="5" face="Arial">Now it’s time to tackle all those clothes! </font></p> <p><font size="5" face="Arial">The first thing I did was pack away all my summer things. Depending on where you live, you may have already done this, but in my area we can still get nice days through September. October seems to mark the official start of fall and it’s time to pack away the capris and shorts.</font></p> <p><font size="5" face="Arial">I was able to purge and went from 4 bins to 2. Whoohoo! Feels good!</font></p> <p><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhjlPdLQnRmLLFrVkuuSQtbfK8Uw5823uPKILIFjYSTfwhMnwyymwosue_JMJ4uZz0F6ldhU9S8j_7ODQvP5AvrszFU9IQGD-N7tMsH1PSxmLnryiCB4SXJuoAf4ITQewfrQ1Dd6kRg9rw/s1600-h/100_4013%25255B14%25255D.jpg"><img style="background-image: none; border-bottom: 0px; border-left: 0px; padding-left: 0px; padding-right: 0px; display: inline; border-top: 0px; border-right: 0px; padding-top: 0px" title="100_4013" border="0" alt="100_4013" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjCiouTObBUZsgkyuL7UPLLWRPi_5uDZcSmUigSCkGeQRYDWwNZe_NqrnLW-GhCdMryDnFWXxFbJBo9D-PlfmVrLbuxwJGEohmPFRSWFCUh4XGPHYcKLi19L0iU7OmxfdlSWcR9XmP_okY/?imgmax=800" width="355" height="196"></a></p> <p><font size="5" face="Arial">Totally empty!</font></p> <p><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEijbfmnRhMMsHiEovZ1a85lVlNttbvVwrgYyUEjsnt4H8m9k9TuQgA-NfRt2bMbx2vkEOWv_qF4SArNcLaK6xlSbDyZVKPw9cl9N4KojDO69kCbvZOJrfNarlSKg1VBf7UBlWhJyoEcKsk/s1600-h/100_4014%25255B14%25255D.jpg"><img style="background-image: none; border-bottom: 0px; border-left: 0px; padding-left: 0px; padding-right: 0px; display: inline; border-top: 0px; border-right: 0px; padding-top: 0px" title="100_4014" border="0" alt="100_4014" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhaLwIRRoczpyVHmdAd9m5LVVZ-EvIjesdZlo67U2m7UsOI73XyZhqGMzHnPG9ceXaOtfkeLi9Sev2V5oCSmcyNJXFs8u_stsO99AXKJsJ8UWjsrkvZ3j4VXP6bXHI3SdaCcyTU7n9dKso/?imgmax=800" width="372" height="188"></a></p> <p><font size="5" face="Arial">These used to be stacked two high.</font></p> <p><font size="5" face="Arial">Because this is such a BIG part of the closet we will take 2 days to complete. Don’t want anyone to get overwhelmed.</font></p> <p><font size="5" face="Arial">Just remember our </font><a href="http://roadtosimplify.blogspot.com/2011/10/day-2-shoes.html"><font size="5" face="Arial">3 questions</font></a><font size="5" face="Arial">…and get working on those seasonal clothes.</font></p> <p><font size="5" face="Arial">How about you? Do you store seasonal clothing or do you have it all out at the same time?</font></p> <p><font size="5" face="Arial"></font></p> <p><font size="5" face="Arial">Have a blessed day!</font></p> <p><font size="6" face="AR BERKLEY">Claire</font></p> <p><font size="5" face="Arial"><a href="http://roadtosimplify.blogspot.com/2011/10/day-1.html">Day 1</a></font></p> <p><font size="5" face="Arial"><a href="http://roadtosimplify.blogspot.com/2011/10/day-2-shoes.html">Day 2</a></font></p> Claires Healthy Homehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/07591046931633390994noreply@blogger.com3tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2180083669129193015.post-18148772580206792842011-10-02T20:36:00.001-07:002011-10-02T20:36:31.045-07:00Day 2: SHOES<p><font size="4" face="Arial">Our mission of 31 Days to Declutter starts in the master bedroom closet. I picked my bedroom first because I am really looking forward to getting my peaceful space back. </font></p> <p><font size="4" face="Arial">No matter the size of your closet, somehow it never seems big enough. Why is that? My first house had a teeny,tiny closet for my clothes and this house has a small walk in. I remember thinking 13 years ago…WOW! This is huge! And, yet, today it is busting at the seams. I have my work cut out for me <a href="http://roadtosimplify.blogspot.com/2011/09/our-dream.html">NEXT YEAR</a>!</font></p> <p><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgFKIQIvmwQiZo-i0z9bih9rZxv6O65e1znOaLk2F03jkTs7D71TiRw9cfDkJGLlHknrLctnLt1Kbbjtt1xz06rx6Mn6r3zHSsagqdtM25rMUpSl1FIxwIh5fAobTzbpr3I4oxkynkpmSw/s1600-h/100_4002%25255B9%25255D.jpg"><img style="background-image: none; border-bottom: 0px; border-left: 0px; padding-left: 0px; padding-right: 0px; display: inline; border-top: 0px; border-right: 0px; padding-top: 0px" title="100_4002" border="0" alt="100_4002" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgTwtrgV5f2yiJig0lnwfprqUeMzw7xURm-7vsyvs9yeT7C8hiFnOnIWZD5qQk6woFo1-fWMHKWwhP4Q5zul-4qjwS1BU1wT_m9VL4FhuSNUgat3MY6gpTLY7n8oCj8a3IjbjOJk_RqkGE/?imgmax=800" width="304" height="464"></a></p> <p><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEimVkisWKZVdM4JXRd1qNHokYrGmz8IzMDKmOjAkHqZUggjVS5pUMC86Hq0KdifxHYY0l-dEKoLI4EEkXjtHWihYfbHUy4hrmTHgaikHAy9pltyr7kUXiciC25Y4eOrL1cDiP1DeHnPKyo/s1600-h/100_4003%25255B7%25255D.jpg"><img style="background-image: none; border-bottom: 0px; border-left: 0px; padding-left: 0px; padding-right: 0px; display: inline; border-top: 0px; border-right: 0px; padding-top: 0px" title="100_4003" border="0" alt="100_4003" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhpPsW_PI7L2b6p7h8bbbT83p6Ycbh6THocexJ16BPYbLDWqTohS-C7afM3n9BmI62hDeFlX3hbbgs5O5uXRuc2MYHAi4P4j8auCxGA7Q6F7vpHv0AytZov1uWKVL9t0OEvSvh17ZvZcFc/?imgmax=800" width="317" height="387"></a></p> <p><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhl3H3g9ReX8BTsN4xUfqlbmxr1MrIerqnWP8EUlrm7cDKwk_hf_NbFhaQ1baUW-mPWiRGIPjd-DUW6YskKBCdtn8M5eb8gBkQUFgwQ1vWooF6F0Bjq3KJwFShH61868dTq1rwgxhc9dyI/s1600-h/100_4004%25255B7%25255D.jpg"><img style="background-image: none; border-bottom: 0px; border-left: 0px; padding-left: 0px; padding-right: 0px; display: inline; border-top: 0px; border-right: 0px; padding-top: 0px" title="100_4004" border="0" alt="100_4004" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjTrRAHZS7DNMCdrlhiCBk6A2gJ78WAsAOJfzP-uoqh1AtIbLwjujGxWPKvkNnfsrNQgq5d5K5H_czD0xdyJvQA7_omm8uTyMLmISF4ocyOIF8DeIbkh7KC0aroLjC46b8w0izVzdIxplw/?imgmax=800" width="310" height="396"></a></p> <p> </p> <p><font size="4" face="Arial">But…back to the challenge! Let’s start with shoes today.</font></p> <p><font size="4" face="Arial">I started by taking ALL of my shoes out. Then I divided summer and winter. </font></p> <p><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiGuEIsWFu4pX-_wIHFz36RDpu6thuShoz7U1Wvg-W9PY7pIRkg90RGmO8BJfxQivrK4ELxOrdiMdPoQWs9ly2hS2F3-_5CWtweGfkCqmJ_S1qaLb69j965LvTAoiQjbsdu5S9YfHtxFdk/s1600-h/100_4009%25255B10%25255D.jpg"><img style="background-image: none; border-bottom: 0px; border-left: 0px; padding-left: 0px; padding-right: 0px; display: inline; border-top: 0px; border-right: 0px; padding-top: 0px" title="100_4009" border="0" alt="100_4009" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgq-OmWgxuqrroaNHrjDX3kSTffNMJw0ELlqhLwHwNf28Z3OeReTkKaB7qGonnS4BLuLszvXG-X7X92hvl53SPU4qs7F5qykso386tcO2G3x00KzBxFfnRkcWEsji26QmMj18ydCPW3iV8/?imgmax=800" width="296" height="235"></a></p> <p><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgtogUsHOKIl7VBvxIWYcOYw-cRQFrier94poa8COTVL8CeQoov2gcl6UxNA9e4u0w4hiX7Sj4NoFQ2JKA3om1VRm11cOaeGn329u7M0zzaZ_NN8Tzqxe8pXu3CH2JPfVHD0gh4-GvaS4w/s1600-h/100_4011%25255B6%25255D.jpg"><img style="background-image: none; border-bottom: 0px; border-left: 0px; padding-left: 0px; padding-right: 0px; display: inline; border-top: 0px; border-right: 0px; padding-top: 0px" title="100_4011" border="0" alt="100_4011" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg7neR2ffjLJlOzGthZel_yjPyFPyRHvJEoSafEDV3aqj3d4pyJl90wPmSl36KqavO9wkwfTYknNZwpjwOelH7DKI17fsACpvF7hPC9BZGYRnth2ndkjBsJXwEwWAm3qF84YuCuKTPK_gg/?imgmax=800" width="344" height="202"></a></p> <p><font size="4" face="Arial">There are 3 questions I ask myself when I look at my stuff.</font></p> <p><font size="4" face="Arial">1. Do I love it AND use it? (keep)</font></p> <p><font size="4" face="Arial">2. Can I donate it?</font></p> <p><font size="4" face="Arial">3. Should it be thrown away?</font></p> <p><font size="4" face="Arial">We are all at different places with our shoes! Some of us are shoe fanatics and have lots. That is obviously not me so don’t go by the amount I have, but rather what is going to work for you. </font></p> <p><font size="4" face="Arial">After you have gone through them and made your decisions, simply put them back in whatever way you store your shoes.</font></p> <p><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjZ3qKUlzC-msMvdZCjn0_UqU-Sl9FBklUFfywfjbwIUlfwowdF0iw33IQJXydmbiz4Q4n6j7mRegbAsiO7sD2HrwAEE4PSrcw6YSTvukc8HupIDHbwrkd-DHFg4PjRiAfZ1o3ZFxsGQB0/s1600-h/100_4012%25255B6%25255D.jpg"><img style="background-image: none; border-bottom: 0px; border-left: 0px; padding-left: 0px; padding-right: 0px; display: inline; border-top: 0px; border-right: 0px; padding-top: 0px" title="100_4012" border="0" alt="100_4012" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhJP0MlLG2bg5w6M13PSkL-tcs6jqWH7JjE0gfTv0Xc93Drnwx1W9RBA57vVsQ3knAavGncX6KXPtEdZeNtFCV8XcTEtgVzzFWeI3kje9JOD0gk3M3N_rHsPtnJ5z5AcORARjXIlLjf12E/?imgmax=800" width="239" height="514"></a></p> <p><font size="4" face="Arial">I love that mine fit in my shoe space now! Although, I do need a new pair for fall. Last year I got rid of quite a few because they were just too old. But for now it fits and feels great!</font></p> <p><font size="4" face="Arial">How about you? Are you a shoe fanatic? Or not, like me?</font></p> <p><font size="4" face="Arial">Be sure to come back tomorrow as we continue on in the closet!</font></p> <p><font size="4" face="Arial">Have a blessed day,</font></p> <p><font size="6" face="AR BERKLEY">Claire</font></p> Claires Healthy Homehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/07591046931633390994noreply@blogger.com4tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2180083669129193015.post-60908519715555671442011-10-01T19:29:00.001-07:002011-10-01T19:29:46.117-07:00Day #1<p> </p> <p><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhV_lUtovE5ZlxsjrZ3lmOMjFHCe5VV2QY2amdLD_9KeherdPYsi0G6hAvfOb5nyNU9YTGB6tIZvXhGPrmVtYg3G5y9S4z1yoQv68IE42pZPY0YxwqXpBpT9SGOU9ORHi9b8C3K_a8Mxrs/s1600-h/blogbutton%25255B3%25255D.jpg"><img style="background-image: none; border-bottom: 0px; border-left: 0px; padding-left: 0px; padding-right: 0px; display: inline; border-top: 0px; border-right: 0px; padding-top: 0px" title="blogbutton" border="0" alt="blogbutton" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjLd4mXkv8cB08J2Pvy0HYhVQH6eGY_r_LQSvL61z7bZ7fDD8blDTSgKCWYvC3TkZoJx5GW2VzffDJP3qP8uXaV8lEVE7l-wRJNYgsL3-XOjDnE5htH4zJ3IF-WWRbH91iR4yQjzdGOyKg/?imgmax=800" width="129" height="102"></a></p> <p><font size="4" face="Arial"></font> </p> <p><font size="4" face="Arial">As I shared <a href="http://roadtosimplify.blogspot.com/2011/09/our-dream.html">HERE</a>, our family has BIG changes coming next year and we must start preparing now for a major downsize. One of the questions I have been asking myself is how much stuff does one really need? I think it will be a process, so this month will be the first decluttering. Then, come spring, hopefully?…it will be one step closer to our life of minimalism on the road.</font></p> <blockquote> <p><font size="4" face="Arial"><font size="5">TIP #1</font> Start small! Our first area to tackle starting tomorrow will be the master bedroom closet. We will actually break it down into several areas. Allow yourself just 15 min per day and we can accomplish LOTS in 31 days. </font></p></blockquote> <p><font size="4" face="Arial"></font> </p> <p><font size="4" face="Arial">So what about you? Does it sound totally appealing to have your stuff in order and downsized before the holidays? Then come on and join in!</font></p> <p><font size="4" face="Arial">Come back tomorrow and be ready to purge the stuff!!</font></p> <p><font size="4" face="Arial">Be sure to check out the inspiration at the <a href="http://www.thenester.com/2011/09/31-days-participants.html">Nesters 31 Days of Change</a>.</font></p> <p><font size="4" face="Arial">Have a blessed day!</font></p> <p><font size="6" face="AR BERKLEY">Claire</font></p> Claires Healthy Homehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/07591046931633390994noreply@blogger.com2tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2180083669129193015.post-85366615296837579272011-09-30T13:42:00.001-07:002011-09-30T13:43:19.001-07:0031 Days to Declutter<p> </p> <p><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiPWj0xfnh8evMVL5XSdZ1SiwO_DMgKANyAkYw0oKDE1F3Hr_EOLzXdtPQbODIcYaDMM_LCTzDryM3stvwiDKuB-eH9iy5RH4TaSQUL_ozFiO8UfD0n7MAeWwyA3qK_pnXb19sMJ8MkDFY/s1600-h/blogbutton3.jpg"><img style="background-image: none; border-right-width: 0px; padding-left: 0px; padding-right: 0px; display: inline; border-top-width: 0px; border-bottom-width: 0px; border-left-width: 0px; padding-top: 0px" title="blogbutton" border="0" alt="blogbutton" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiAtvA1v452i1u-Q0Sa5nT1T4qnIYXypY9d1eatjPQXSCArXd5tCkXZOEp2rdWyLonuE8K8PLrSTA78gbomcuwuIiX2hv9wGcwvTt1Cd_VNkmuO490B5hnBSTQRp-_oreUELS7ykyxmj2I/?imgmax=800" width="129" height="102"></a></p> <p><font size="4" face="Arial">Yep. That’s right. October is THE month the Leightons’ are decluttering and purging the house of STUFF! </font></p> <p><font size="4" face="Arial">I am participating in <a href="/http://www.thenester.com/2010/08/31-days-of-change.html">The Nester’s 31 Days of Change</a>. So</font><font size="4" face="Arial"> starting October 1 through the 31, I will post daily tips and ideas on purging the ‘stuff’.</font></p> <p><font size="4" face="Arial">As told in our story <a href="http://roadtosimplify.blogspot.com/2011/09/our-dream.html">HERE</a>…we are preparing to hit the road July 1, 2012 in an RV to travel the US for ONE year with our 3 boys. That means 9 short months to prepare our house to rent and learn the ropes of minimalism. Yikes!</font></p> <p><font size="4" face="Arial">First step is decluttering the house. </font></p> <p><font size="4" face="Arial">So follow along and maybe even be inspired to join in! Imagine how great it will <font size="4" face="Arial">feel with less clutter and stuff….especially before the busy holidays.</font><font size="4" face="Arial"> </font></font></p> <p><font size="4" face="Arial">Leave me a note if you are joining me too.</font></p> <p><font size="4" face="Arial">If you are a blogger, grab my button on the right to post on your blog.</font></p> <p><font size="4" face="Arial">It’s gonna be a great month!</font></p> <p><font size="4" face="Arial"></font> </p> <p><font size="4" face="Arial">Have a blessed day!</font></p> <p><font size="6" face="AR BERKLEY">Claire</font></p> Claires Healthy Homehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/07591046931633390994noreply@blogger.com4tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2180083669129193015.post-4950067909127929712011-09-30T13:38:00.001-07:002011-09-30T13:38:19.774-07:00Our Dream<p><font size="4" face="Arial">My husband and I have a crazy dream to travel the United States with our children in an RV….for ONE YEAR. We have been asked a lot how we came to that thought and I don’t know if I can give just one easy answer to that question. </font></p> <p><font size="4" face="Arial">Our biggest inspiration and catalyst to even hearing about this idea came from Tim and Stephanie Sheaffer from <a href="http://giveeveryday.com/blog/">Give Every Day</a>. We ‘stumbled upon’ their blog and immediately felt pulled to the idea of serving others. We also held some fascination for the idea that families actually do this! The thought hadn’t really crossed our minds before except when thinking about ‘some day’ when we retire…maybe.</font></p> <p><font size="4" face="Arial">At the same time, we had started to feel a bit heavy with the way our life was. My husbands’ job was stressful but mostly, it seemed we were just ‘surviving’ instead of living and experiencing. We were hungering for passion and purpose again in ways we weren’t even aware of…..until we saw the opportunity in the travel. I know that for most people, a time such as this may never arise and that we should give it some thought. </font></p> <p><font size="4" face="Arial">Several things in our life lined up….transition with hubbys’ job, support from family, opportunity to make an income online, the ideal time for our kids to pull out of school for a year, and the biggest one…we had just paid off all of our debt (not including mortgage). The freedom from those bills actually opened a new door for us and we decided to jump in with both feet!</font></p> <p><font size="4" face="Arial">We are giddy with excitement, nervous about details (ok mostly me) and absolutely thrilled to have the chance to be with our kids as one family before they are too big and off to college.</font></p> <p><font size="4" face="Arial">We would love to share the journey with you! Become a follower and like me on facebook. </font></p> <p><font size="4" face="Arial">Ask us lots of questions…I will try my best to answer them!</font></p> <p><font size="4" face="Arial">Have a blessed day!</font></p> <p><font size="6" face="AR BERKLEY">Claire</font></p> Claires Healthy Homehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/07591046931633390994noreply@blogger.com2tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2180083669129193015.post-83259341681989446612011-09-26T11:49:00.001-07:002011-09-26T11:49:06.609-07:00Light The Night Walk 2011<p> </p> <p><font size="4" face="Arial">Each year, in communities all across the United States and Canada teams of families, friends, co-workers and local and national corporations come together to raise funds for The Leukemia & Lymphoma Society's (LLS's) Light The Night Walk events and bring help and hope to people battling blood cancers.</font></p> <p><font size="4" face="Arial">Our family participated in the Light the Night 2011 on Saturday with friends and family.</font></p> <p><font size="4" face="Arial">.<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi6QCCydG488D1drdNjSJEF5DKKZUcAxuuaw5kmFiAD2bRYl3WODckNusjXuYifE_inqL0RGVi0JhgC-0AnwXVGlAyYtZU-UHDTUcWVhMem0icHcmmZgfEWwGx2JZiArFoEV0fxoTLW6ts/s1600-h/100_3989%25255B10%25255D.jpg"><img style="background-image: none; border-bottom: 0px; border-left: 0px; padding-left: 0px; padding-right: 0px; display: inline; border-top: 0px; border-right: 0px; padding-top: 0px" title="100_3989" border="0" alt="100_3989" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh-T3AX66S05HbqkvY9JQ4IEE59jRxbsd6Huv-pdDYHeAVHK1AuzGUfooNTQZbKgAbeADa2jjWEXLUkp4PW5-UHrY2sEDkqwpFCoY9V1tGNd3DV5I3bCrto6p1N2ELdEIEfxuHPf_joMnM/?imgmax=800" width="404" height="304"></a></font></p> <p> </p> <p><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjkZFRWcbIqLxA5sqpI5_TMO3kIhpIePUZGZ6gdb4zt1T84XFPf4puJjU1w_ef58R-YvOrTQMtlrFqXdKOW19-a1ga944FVOv6hvjy9QAnH9hY1gyhf5t5h1gKXy-e_bfQoMDMMjsJ_cp4/s1600-h/100_3985%25255B9%25255D.jpg"><img style="background-image: none; border-bottom: 0px; border-left: 0px; padding-left: 0px; padding-right: 0px; display: inline; border-top: 0px; border-right: 0px; padding-top: 0px" title="100_3985" border="0" alt="100_3985" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhfA72nE2MJEx7ASMvtO_WM9SsKEeFTKUGJqGou5smV4SiUfWTtTSQ3Aabw35EYzccp54cYizIECN7yTKzf2jgG5Y7Vx8M2WZrRRYcbgGfR6Y9AKQ16Ne6eXvNkH5LV_bHIObbWRjkdxFg/?imgmax=800" width="404" height="322"></a></p> <p><font size="4" face="Arial">(youngest doesn’t always like his picture taken…lol)</font></p> <p><font size="4" face="Arial">This particular walk is close to my heart because 8 years ago I was diagnosed with Lymphoma Cancer, Hodgekins Disease. It was right after I had my youngest son and quite the shock as well! He was 4 months old and due to my illness and treatments, I was unable to care for him fully for almost the first year of my life. We were so blessed with a fabulous church family and friends who cared for our whole family during that time. I’m talking house cleaning, meals, child care, gifts, encouragement, prayer and the list goes on and on! It was quite humbling to need others in this way and to accept the help, but I am so grateful. </font></p> <p><font size="4" face="Arial">My angel was my mom. She lives out of town and came for every treatment to stay for a week and care for me and my baby. I do not know what I would have done without her! Especially for caring for my son and nurturing him in his first year. My sister-in-law and mother-in-law were also HUGE in my care. Seriously…such a reminder why we need others. We felt so loved and cared for during that hard and scary time.</font></p> <p><font size="4" face="Arial">And now….I have been cancer-free for 7 years! Many times I feel like it was ages ago…other times it feels like just the other day. Certain smells, for example, can take me right back to that time. It has taken me this long to be able to participate in something like this because of the memories. I only got a little teary when people spoke of loved ones gone. It humbles me to know that I was given the gift of life while others had a different plan for their life. Who am I? Why me? Such questions may never be answered but it reminds me to be faithful to the God who gave me life and to trust Him.</font></p> <p><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjGja0p3fsQtlUMr73_1gxcqMcPX2pLvLRq9pEY4cafBWcJS6rgpStSe-LqWWP7_p-12HwteVcgD2tRsltbyG462-PScdojkMnNxgnQPCfCl5V5jQAB1m6ofKBULPbTAEL0KJfqOnl4uOU/s1600-h/100_3986%25255B10%25255D.jpg"><img style="background-image: none; border-bottom: 0px; border-left: 0px; padding-left: 0px; padding-right: 0px; display: inline; border-top: 0px; border-right: 0px; padding-top: 0px" title="100_3986" border="0" alt="100_3986" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEggz2VhI3tJa-yc3RUToUg7DURn8Oaj_D_x_zzk0nn3o4O7jvwPJyDo_e0nHGkZVpGabAbcZHRgUzb49Sht1UYQBntk3WFGATuQI8OAVFzjsIpVcRYzOyzbG7hr8xbQwx9vLuoZkQMzoa0/?imgmax=800" width="404" height="326"></a></p> <p><font size="4" face="Arial">This is me with my hubby, Clark. He is my ROCK! He was Mr. Mom while I was ill and did it fabulously. He never complained. It was a very tough time for him too, but he tried to stay strong for me. </font></p> <p><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgYKy6qWk3ylcf4nF_suH1-Hdktkc-S7oFm9OGY5KmCfhRVMxWvrNCYDE8l1o-Ro9X2RAkFFu43bBscGF1NVqnLAoHH1dBdRB4IT7_B96ePtA9D_XSuwSSaiVyGHECT8Gb5uNxMNzsfHh0/s1600-h/100_3991%25255B6%25255D.jpg"><img style="background-image: none; border-bottom: 0px; border-left: 0px; padding-left: 0px; padding-right: 0px; display: inline; border-top: 0px; border-right: 0px; padding-top: 0px" title="100_3991" border="0" alt="100_3991" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgDk0h5Tkgc_q8syOuAG9TLe_ThV6RIFJjcIFM9wpb6_R6Ht_FL_CZzW98F6nsqXWyNJ1I9TcqWFX5Ayl1XJSKRAw9360Z8ZjpubqPZBCRPXWw4oTqvW4Pz_fbIEaiYDednH4nDLiVPR0k/?imgmax=800" width="404" height="404"></a></p> <p><font size="4" face="Arial">So, we celebrated with a 3 mile walk and lighted balloons! Red for supporters and white for survivors. What an awesome sight to see so many there to take part in something greater than ourselves.</font></p> <p><font size="4" face="Arial">What about you? Have you experienced a ‘bump in the road’ like me? </font></p> <p><font size="4" face="Arial">Hope each of you have a blessed day!</font></p> <p><font size="6" face="AR BLANCA">Claire</font></p> Claires Healthy Homehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/07591046931633390994noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2180083669129193015.post-40076654083892571572011-09-22T08:36:00.001-07:002011-09-22T08:42:33.041-07:00Dinner Shortcut<p> </p> <p><font size="4" face="Arial">Meal times are c.r.a.z.y around here! We currently have soccer 4 nights a week and high school football games on Fridays. So between work, school and activities the dinner hour can be super hectic. </font></p> <p><font size="4" face="Arial">Planning ahead is always my saving grace and things run so much smoother when I do.</font></p> <p><font size="4" face="Arial">One of my favorite shortcuts is buying roasted chickens. I get mine at Costco because they have quality meat, they are good size and the price is right.</font></p> <p><font size="4" face="Arial"></font> </p> <p><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgrMjGdolNputMJVnwxZfYmxnLujkussmW8C71dG80yqWcDw2bF4t_M4NIRPrO7VJOoQTP7Xohxze2wCkGpda4qugpW1pvYngOXLdzbvpGOspslMUSYKFaZrTCfiheh40ffmt9NVe9cLdg/s1600-h/100_3705%25255B12%25255D.jpg"><img style="background-image: none; border-right-width: 0px; padding-left: 0px; padding-right: 0px; display: inline; border-top-width: 0px; border-bottom-width: 0px; border-left-width: 0px; padding-top: 0px" title="100_3705" border="0" alt="100_3705" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi4uxk3eMeUmXjCPeElOq0GC3faXbVP43Yy0vhnL-5KDVJVDMIcBMUdz_aLxWrYXIUnf1IPoAxMke8FW2JaOyCH85mtYk0oqwoc5Wo9W9-MpaspuNhy7zRPSTt16i49FKTYCrb8lxXClj4/?imgmax=800" width="404" height="197"></a></p> <p><font size="4" face="Arial">Doesn’t this look yummy?</font></p> <p><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgl5oF_o4RMKv4Ik1SIlYtDH1poDz3Lsau50PsKG2cRTh6z-PAd3BjVPDHQpPDJRAXmk24Mcq8mjmewyWbEMcNlNjwS5rAtzPu46Ya5pT6Cd9Ock-8q9wDmzndGCLzDP2j-f3ioxCo2_GM/s1600-h/100_3706%25255B11%25255D.jpg"><img style="background-image: none; border-right-width: 0px; padding-left: 0px; padding-right: 0px; display: inline; border-top-width: 0px; border-bottom-width: 0px; border-left-width: 0px; padding-top: 0px" title="100_3706" border="0" alt="100_3706" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj2SoAmLigi34ZFM8qNm9MhmtCRX7708YxQPCEQv_X68X4OW4ZAHhl_NkWx2BwucltlK-XrQiMzN9JxusweBmA9KmRCKP23wHxoWNDn8naYpfpO8ux3xtrCS-TJ45u_sl-weNuerbJ9e7M/?imgmax=800" width="404" height="204"></a></p> <p><font size="4" face="Arial">Then I take the meat off, cut up or shred and put into bags to freeze. </font></p> <p><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj-_D01g8gqS9CSECMefCU4kUUHb2CAa8uUxhZ_PGro-fYW5K1bQHaIvLTUoLfx78IvPiXYYOO42Z0cyZ6-464D_lp7zGlyVFSIN0W1kxHLS8RbZ4SpHPTthFfAvLs9FGrIPE_57LndlnU/s1600-h/100_3707%25255B10%25255D.jpg"><img style="background-image: none; border-right-width: 0px; padding-left: 0px; padding-right: 0px; display: inline; border-top-width: 0px; border-bottom-width: 0px; border-left-width: 0px; padding-top: 0px" title="100_3707" border="0" alt="100_3707" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgFCQru9ANQ-Wraj3Vh0s535l2emDzplhLhdJ89uizjq1wa96fMR8L0g9_g3tZB8irjOnDLttWVZ3ItH589nuUm1CqQ-BXQIGXptONS-nnUtftA04EtQ_jP_5AGaUFJk4PXKLpLvxva3P8/?imgmax=800" width="404" height="189"></a></p> <p><font size="4" face="Arial">Now I have 3 meals prepped and ready to throw together. We use it for quesadillas, pizza, sandwiches, soup, etc…. You may get more meals out of it depending on the size of your family.</font></p> <p><font size="4" face="Arial">It allows me to whip up a healthy meal in 20 mins or less for my active boys.</font></p> <p><font size="4" face="Arial">What dinner shortcuts do you have? I love new ideas!</font></p> <p><font size="4" face="Arial"></font> </p> <p><font size="4" face="Arial">Have a blessed day,</font></p> <p><font size="6" face="AR BLANCA">Claire</font></p> Claires Healthy Homehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/07591046931633390994noreply@blogger.com4tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2180083669129193015.post-74252961692405455732011-09-19T11:05:00.001-07:002011-09-19T11:05:16.831-07:00Crooked River Camp Out<p> </p> <p><font size="4" face="Arial">Every August our church gathers for a huge camp out at Crooked River in eastern Oregon. Some of us go for just the weekend, some for the entire week and others even longer! This past August marked our 13th year going. We started before we had our first child. Our boys have grown to absolutely love this week spent with good friends and family swimming, frog hunting, hiking, eating and playing games. It is one of our most treasured family memories together.</font></p> <p><font size="4" face="Arial"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhK9aqyaGIuDfD5-LebJzvDMQJd8SziPdAfHqVRHrMhzxJQntVOaUIxaZd2aM0BARJIs9BZgVQ0GdD9c0vGNI8dBYguIY9XL1NeLFYa7jDrBpUJXzsPrRjmYGeFxAmfWbis7FzsTJcXC4I/s1600-h/100_3885%25255B5%25255D.jpg"><img style="background-image: none; border-right-width: 0px; padding-left: 0px; padding-right: 0px; display: inline; border-top-width: 0px; border-bottom-width: 0px; border-left-width: 0px; padding-top: 0px" title="100_3885" border="0" alt="100_3885" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgWsQqsr7IU0LMTJf2pbQJ7_HME_vkl4hQz9cgeLwD1HeewQxajv1us8ikBJTxVvYQKoNl8d4RKf0bYG0WZRWSbFTZtTVbws4Ewx173-dWaHD8Hw7EXPll683_1zJe44xoyOCFfBMzLv9Q/?imgmax=800" width="404" height="304"></a></font></p> <p><font size="4" face="Arial">Here we are getting the truck and trailer packed. This takes us all day, but thankfully the boys are at an age to help quite a bit.</font></p> <p><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhoVvVujMPOMwRrP4W4-IBw-46iup3hLQBoecwlwkB-VXfid3sr0Hc7FU53ateP_A5NdX8JCOFpok0jLgUIVERZixnQGG-BiZQD9kDEVietYai0rOT-jx9yqQBBFYydR5m-yQJPFgUDLL4/s1600-h/100_3887%25255B11%25255D.jpg"><img style="display: inline" title="100_3887" alt="100_3887" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiCbAoVm1TaVIAdEdrcerfo9FOFIrT9wnLHDlBzPBwNPD3nTQLkCWlOaQfP7pTcSxBhfDGlCzZwWr7XCViou9Ox3dYkqdo94eaHgUbJZc8RhkCUctnal3UEfdj_HANeHj5LXKpyzwgeHDI/?imgmax=800" width="400" height="229"></a></p> <p><font size="4" face="Arial">We stopped in Madras at the new Sonic that opened. You order and eat outside or order from your car and the waitress brings you your food while on rollerskates! We ran into friends who stopped on their way to the campout too.</font></p> <p><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj78BjQbJTL5Yza4uw50Ozdb-3NLFbvsjKJiGO3fGvbhjG9Cgtknqn5sYzatHWORvOi_UTH0P58q_MtFb_p0wgkhyphenhyphenHZ55gJKWQwXtMCIIA9q_a52Ltlf_QtRJ5KGziM6vSOHvfqChEWA8E/s1600-h/100_3888%25255B6%25255D.jpg"><img style="background-image: none; border-right-width: 0px; padding-left: 0px; padding-right: 0px; display: inline; border-top-width: 0px; border-bottom-width: 0px; border-left-width: 0px; padding-top: 0px" title="100_3888" border="0" alt="100_3888" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh4-hGE1-js7NNL5ZM6wv9ku5rRAjwafGgwKORJxuLzqcVTHP0z6r2vawbjhLsB_uLalPEcNFnM7mQwtYVwKjIjnnQcyhr0M5YbMagM7V6uk2WOrqGLlxr_nuHAzteTi3R0yRMJVkBpzcM/?imgmax=800" width="404" height="297"></a></p> <p> </p> <p><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhXjhr8c80vy3lucb9RhheDO4xgdio5SfLZrK_G2n99F6LhFWsYeTJq_V1Ymu1HJXs2z1DfPaPLgbcaQonPCedx_ROegK0JjnjsZfwjOWWctj8snbXPbTxOa7XcqJmICS7Niiw9uMQuUmc/s1600-h/100_3917%25255B10%25255D.jpg"><img style="background-image: none; border-right-width: 0px; padding-left: 0px; padding-right: 0px; display: inline; border-top-width: 0px; border-bottom-width: 0px; border-left-width: 0px; padding-top: 0px" title="100_3917" border="0" alt="100_3917" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgfHMJQR_rPvQZ2148_BW2mkj0E8zVORX9qEbOsScOcQPrO-PIADaADNAyp-K_AAOY3gKucat-n07sQZdCniPRPEsdfnN_47zvHoT5GJtdWlYu2Y2C21Bn3xWYtqJinKZiUhV0G3ka5cKI/?imgmax=800" width="404" height="427"></a></p> <p><font size="4" face="Arial">I love this view of Crooked River. Near the campground there is a lookout tower and this is the view from there. It is an amazing view of God’s creation and so peaceful. Isn’t it breathtaking?</font></p> <p><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhlaHb9lYOeoHfqbQD__c8rAr3Ti4ZB1-YUF5-G-pCoDApoRHa64FmEVSMOAK4-BWYuZERlvZEqwbJTLO61R_rh-s2cb4ZDWpQYLqmRW99PFv5Kav2Ro8O05t8G3-tarMgZjoRpbVAobAk/s1600-h/100_3932%25255B8%25255D.jpg"><img style="background-image: none; border-right-width: 0px; padding-left: 0px; padding-right: 0px; display: inline; border-top-width: 0px; border-bottom-width: 0px; border-left-width: 0px; padding-top: 0px" title="100_3932" border="0" alt="100_3932" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgILhiuztAd7MxTuVqa4W25sByTvd8CScig3lGqVqaKP6ZUNLwusOB0sEjXNRUF_9g8p4_b28BsxM7y6lQIIt_r8Kh7e4OlWC3m40rfjMCay8OUo5MlYNfDTIcD5fc0un-tSGksaraLr1U/?imgmax=800" width="404" height="241"></a></p> <p><font size="4" face="Arial">There is a trail that leads down to the river. Here is our family just before we hiked down. We went with another family and took a bunch of youth kids with us to hike and swim in the river.</font></p> <p><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiuya1GML8tZxZvJj7jttOTWE9jnfP2p4R8vL5FwVHBhf0LoicbKOzF6mLa05syDMer0SQ400Ao2RcDoWMvQCL1iEO-jZdTjwWwe2P5BJTFrJ-gQUVo_8m5Xd2qjEv_f4jccDZFTRjHlqw/s1600-h/100_3920%25255B8%25255D.jpg"><img style="background-image: none; border-right-width: 0px; padding-left: 0px; padding-right: 0px; display: inline; border-top-width: 0px; border-bottom-width: 0px; border-left-width: 0px; padding-top: 0px" title="100_3920" border="0" alt="100_3920" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhhmr3nLHtCnocS9Nw7EtO7TB3PTRjKz8pYRpAlN-X1Abm5FWizcw3KTwavKhX9yHvFDqdELUL3iiaTBnRiCJHZxI8-P1uJ0XRJEX0z8GyHgIqbWa6fhR6GQlpGbyHoXVzVzwOqg4CuWA0/?imgmax=800" width="304" height="229"></a></p> <p><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiBpEMS2O_YnXiqbJ5Bw78HQ4pz3VPfMfv6A0RvblgvVLdPDs6z1JvSLN1h1Z58U30TaJNpejRAdta6KcD95GKrMQCtqeug_TBHMK3O_Cn2KE0eumh9Oczhd0iaCSwYA2h2SLgl2ENuKRw/s1600-h/100_3923%25255B7%25255D.jpg"><img style="background-image: none; border-right-width: 0px; padding-left: 0px; padding-right: 0px; display: inline; border-top-width: 0px; border-bottom-width: 0px; border-left-width: 0px; padding-top: 0px" title="100_3923" border="0" alt="100_3923" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj02v2toBATsrO5GeSkHsHGTSue-2ko2zhuQHaE5lxdcQKHim5sFvHL0e5-bp_CrYL-v3pE_3jjNDQcNkMLM0uf1zf84-8_gsJ-3M7-ZFt7y4jLk2VtIbNdOPGHVQr5YmeFqajUwFBCUlg/?imgmax=800" width="304" height="268"></a></p> <p><font size="4" face="Arial">Coming back up…several of the kids chose to add a little rock climbing in as well.</font></p> <p><a href="http://lh5.ggpht.com/-7fzkQbIF2u0/TneELmqD2fI/AAAAAAAAAJg/cisQLV1UuA8/s1600-h/100_3891%25255B5%25255D.jpg"><img style="background-image: none; border-right-width: 0px; padding-left: 0px; padding-right: 0px; display: inline; border-top-width: 0px; border-bottom-width: 0px; border-left-width: 0px; padding-top: 0px" title="100_3891" border="0" alt="100_3891" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjRj2cfMDOE1Mf9RcjSU9ESvOx_oQoZq8TpfNHl77_n4vGDICvUZ46zSltFU5xKvyggHjeMRbhjW4YSMeGpaZfV05AnY5DmkX4yGqIn-xF0XyRRiQoRBnKTWlThhWoDX5ugOH0mQBYFYbw/?imgmax=800" width="404" height="304"></a></p> <p><font size="4" face="Arial">The Ranch campground is fabulous! There is a nice pool that we used everyday.</font></p> <p><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhtVDDw4es2CzYB5YyMMkF2ASzx1EU9Vty817y8u24Nm88mMFBPNP08DV0JJH4bA30sYXnh01G8_YpP8krfL8D19Egyo6MAQOZxQzeW7sQ2nkzylH4SLoV0vumNzSeomKiW30TOBcdfhXs/s1600-h/100_3892%25255B9%25255D.jpg"><img style="background-image: none; border-right-width: 0px; padding-left: 0px; padding-right: 0px; display: inline; border-top-width: 0px; border-bottom-width: 0px; border-left-width: 0px; padding-top: 0px" title="100_3892" border="0" alt="100_3892" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjggFWMwFT-eOMNIpGa__KDDTK3NHmrJOCtJ0tuhsDlqHG0-w_A59NpPNKFRUBZo_ng7WwJwJNIVVH6R1RSCL55OJMC5uVbu57t4UJuBX8HnS9SmvH_qW9RP3_xizJxw995q0_U90CnM5A/?imgmax=800" width="404" height="304"></a></p> <p><font size="4" face="Arial">This church is right next to our campground and they let us use it every year for a special Saturday service. This is one of my most favorite parts of our church campout. Fabulous music with a breathtaking view of the canyon followed by great preaching and sharing and ending with communion.</font> </p> <p><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhh3Wl3xLg2DfdHxljaDtssukK86M-YzPmqEvPtNTJ6rX7AhU_Okvz_ZNWIf588MlNlM8IS1CMPDdXZWCtLVwWpuRHE9YCW-airTXExWbFJrfS9lrOPOV74yHmq01TH0pqsT2nVM0uEIMg/s1600-h/100_3914%25255B6%25255D.jpg"><img style="background-image: none; border-right-width: 0px; padding-left: 0px; padding-right: 0px; display: inline; border-top-width: 0px; border-bottom-width: 0px; border-left-width: 0px; padding-top: 0px" title="100_3914" border="0" alt="100_3914" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhiekF37JB-obBbQrK0GSAXR3cKzYZSwFVhaUtUIsp9ho2AzEfMNRO-LNAAKKtXwdqXqdScokyuFqcw7WWX8tEaGS1wQG6fXLs39VikCF4-64wguH_VFfosqayWFUC8j8UqO4Av7xPOAXE/?imgmax=800" width="304" height="162"></a></p> <p><font size="4" face="Arial">These two pictures give a small view of how much our church takes over the campground. lol</font></p> <p><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhfb0PD-TT3LMwPeH0aDY6BSnX9Q9dInXELYhH41E5zlisE8G1QpqpJHujLlCHTGesqiMjTuuX3LX6TYLzr_HurHW60MrkaOAIYOyi2XmVYWoRdNwVY2m0Vy2Usldvu8yd6hsG3vgwXhyk/s1600-h/100_3915%25255B6%25255D.jpg"><img style="background-image: none; border-right-width: 0px; padding-left: 0px; padding-right: 0px; display: inline; border-top-width: 0px; border-bottom-width: 0px; border-left-width: 0px; padding-top: 0px" title="100_3915" border="0" alt="100_3915" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhIY1JdadcOfS6vyYHX5kDPpcqJhs8OBOC5PeylwqHu_tceqJ-UpqeT4Jvg8cQEi0AIJa52uwxTlcloXY7d3Ucp2CqjaUt8dC1185LwOGbTaMhMHW7dIILyXj1olcuvgINZR1lEYyg2v4k/?imgmax=800" width="304" height="173"></a></p> <p><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjxPnWmf_mr8tIfOBHS_yc7rt1QagRrCOT5aWFFO_P4YIlDFwUw6TsTim6id1Dmy9wlEIHoHO_vRVfqfD3CRButMfAhjplkyyuW-FIugF6rDNm5425uIBrIz3suh6ekabmDb_yPcyyiKnc/s1600-h/100_3901%25255B5%25255D.jpg"><img style="background-image: none; border-right-width: 0px; padding-left: 0px; padding-right: 0px; display: inline; border-top-width: 0px; border-bottom-width: 0px; border-left-width: 0px; padding-top: 0px" title="100_3901" border="0" alt="100_3901" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjT2TrcVMSqii_A4O0ONukeDwYMcCA6ljqYWkVnDY0bCE9iv0AxcUwzkBHs-KIKCxucbJ5f799FchZlcyUEXrvVCRpF9izSm4AENrrl5x8ffHfUc0zmfEI72C5zIlNUVQIWbtGpBxvhZtA/?imgmax=800" width="404" height="304"></a></p> <p><font size="4" face="Arial">Boy #3 all smiles.</font></p> <p><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEisRhCX48-Ca2ZLm7bbQdSZTb2UGZyndCWA-5gt1JkH20xOp2ad4QOXbvLa6ogwtRTFAlRtoyuRLZEqpedQGDtutHsl8niZzC_S_HqsQLmJpEfDvc_si6XYhVMkK2ANijzAf1loLxBjUpM/s1600-h/100_3902%25255B6%25255D.jpg"><img style="background-image: none; border-right-width: 0px; padding-left: 0px; padding-right: 0px; display: inline; border-top-width: 0px; border-bottom-width: 0px; border-left-width: 0px; padding-top: 0px" title="100_3902" border="0" alt="100_3902" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgCMj_YTHsraGFz_3KH47dGKJ_H1CyEt86xUgaLCQjz5GpHxjnQN35CUHU9N1puhY7zH4MT9z4sN5oMXOmfnnkWRDWrIq3C7OhKasOTzBwafHsC06XP_YLR9MoqwGo-W606l5sGfnto31U/?imgmax=800" width="404" height="515"></a></p> <p><font size="4" face="Arial">Boy #1 just weeks before starting high school.</font></p> <p><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgRgGFojS6P4Xaag7873K95WYhybyIDPG4ywza_CSf-wvQwv1ePjj8h5Uwtt_ujnDCVSoiH8ygyTumI1R7Q4jcpx1xNRcCCOQcsy9sPSnfoBGR-WYZ3K7-SwdeANburptlzdk_SD0o794o/s1600-h/100_3893%25255B6%25255D.jpg"><img style="background-image: none; border-right-width: 0px; padding-left: 0px; padding-right: 0px; display: inline; border-top-width: 0px; border-bottom-width: 0px; border-left-width: 0px; padding-top: 0px" title="100_3893" border="0" alt="100_3893" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjkIzREvtjYJfAJDY68ree419AjxMn4Z_HhzCZ0G78g00zTazhQ82KNXyWnwstYixcM56ReQWH6sd9ubYTch4elXhEWY4BgP-ErwvdUSbj0eJgUsOCCeRrej4w4Xf1svgGjfuVnlDZzOXU/?imgmax=800" width="404" height="292"></a></p> <p><font size="4" face="Arial">Boy #2 chillin’ in the air conditioned trailer.</font></p> <p><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgQMCwaf3fRWedVfbl9YnC556O6SC0y1hZ6kpTnTw_JbmN3gEAgVWltwJTkqhPFfm7_Atklq4Pd4VicadpuJe4NecsuO5Cyk5VgXHnkzFU-R7QbeE91ce2r4GHKWhhu3a6cM-_d56k5RJs/s1600-h/100_3906%25255B9%25255D.jpg"><img style="background-image: none; border-right-width: 0px; padding-left: 0px; padding-right: 0px; display: inline; border-top-width: 0px; border-bottom-width: 0px; border-left-width: 0px; padding-top: 0px" title="100_3906" border="0" alt="100_3906" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjYjFShp8U7hxY6o5IXEY8o1AiNHjsjRwIG8SoeSaVwamjh-0YufDV8UQg-NyoVZEkhHtsfR9TbFSM7MgMIIQTCnjaAZn5KsyT20_GM976kldpV-AfcyRVOgkGXkw1j7qDTGZyEgpoxzsI/?imgmax=800" width="404" height="537"></a></p> <p><font size="4" face="Arial">Frog hunting is probably the boys’ favorite memory of all at Crooked River. We go at night to a pond to look for bull frogs and catch little tree frogs. Aren’t they cute?</font></p> <p><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi2jfVWJrbwmk14t0kBc8FcZK8zgYbDbAljIrPtY914Wvx3e3ZbJxYh3T4G3-y5qTHgmSyn292g4XLAVNkNtZ4XES1Q1owUCHYQXt2MADS_tAo8S5nkwe6pil6XsQSaQgAF_j8y2au-1Jk/s1600-h/100_3908%25255B6%25255D.jpg"><img style="background-image: none; border-right-width: 0px; padding-left: 0px; padding-right: 0px; display: inline; border-top-width: 0px; border-bottom-width: 0px; border-left-width: 0px; padding-top: 0px" title="100_3908" border="0" alt="100_3908" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhDM6W0Gb3YkcxYVAGABhEGKnjIp4zvnQnRMmeypbAa-YWjTtcVQUE0uXHLUaQk1Na9OeTDwSXGum1DNIL3F4mbtfERtx8-0t6r82MRLLQE82Y0ZKpcOHqoQy1Ew2cnoPu_2aDVPyDCCdQ/?imgmax=800" width="404" height="304"></a></p> <p><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiH7Vmu-xZRc-PQS7VUab4zUFD-Uio2A0VcO77bAlTODjKQ6bMgIl7Y2pVrMOBTpZyl4CIugmvgXZAzGiX-XQR-X_kfgZfnJG8viu9ZdA_A86ZADhrC3V3ZE_iqd6Ms1j-YlnYO8uF2eH0/s1600-h/100_3910%25255B5%25255D.jpg"><img style="background-image: none; border-right-width: 0px; padding-left: 0px; padding-right: 0px; display: inline; border-top-width: 0px; border-bottom-width: 0px; border-left-width: 0px; padding-top: 0px" title="100_3910" border="0" alt="100_3910" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj3dHjsOLwk9ewrU5sjjPtSXW81aOT1u4PPtfPaXq2BcIoDMvSTvfTRAoO-UgTKpnQGFPWdciBQliqIsjtW4g1R5v60n3i9ksiZfn84ev6Mb_QLuTJpn0YyKqRcntMq3fxoq0kE7JgfmmE/?imgmax=800" width="404" height="304"></a></p> <p><font size="4" face="Arial">Hubby and Caden playing games. There is a Risk tournament at our trailer every year with a few of the boys plus many, many card games. The choice game this year was poker, Texas Hold ‘em. Even Caden learned to play. ( no money tho!) The cage on the table is a frog habitat. In it lives JoJo…the pet frog that Caden caught.</font></p> <p><font size="4" face="Arial"></font> </p> <p><font size="4" face="Arial">Our first years were spent tent camping, but one year we were able to borrow an RV from my brother-in-law and….the rest, as they say, was history! Not only did I love the convenience of a kitchen, bathroom and bed, but the air conditioning was heaven. In previous years, I would feel ill from the heat and this was the first year headache free. We were hooked and purchased our first little trailer for the following summer.</font></p> <p><font size="4" face="Arial">My hubby, being the handyman he is, made a few upgrades and we were able to sell it the following year for a small profit. We then purchased our current trailer….a bit newer and bigger than the last. We have used this one for the past 3 summers and hubby once again made improvements, like a new floor. It has served us well, but we are ready to go BIGGER again!</font></p> <p><font size="4" face="Arial">We are on the hunt for a 5th wheel now for our year long US tour. More on this story coming soon!</font></p> <p><font size="4" face="Arial">What about you and your family? Any favorite camping spots and memories?</font></p> <p><font size="4" face="Arial">Have a blessed day!</font></p> <p><font size="6" face="AR BLANCA">Claire</font></p> <p><font size="4" face="Arial"></font></p> Claires Healthy Homehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/07591046931633390994noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2180083669129193015.post-75753038774795446702011-09-17T17:25:00.001-07:002011-09-17T17:25:54.426-07:00How to Remove Permanent Ink<p> </p> <p><font size="4" face="Arial">My boy #2 is an excellent artist and loves to create with his permanent sharpies. He created a piece of art for the cover of his school binder, but unfortunately it leaked through onto our kitchen table! Oooops!</font></p> <p><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg5wzv3SKnvyQkXHDpqhgKcLzvsrmwSodYyoyb6J8s-iCE-LV8io47ZPbxMWQYgtVKSI_hmzuVhG66qMVfaNzNOFd7-y6yb0BmOnnMk9FM5Gi4MAmKX9mEV9XWuCw2-hfxbPcc363HzY24/s1600-h/100_3959%25255B102%25255D.jpg"><img style="display: inline" title="100_3959" alt="100_3959" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh4IwUO0ugsH4pCzHeV9tQl8lFJRUGMcFLfpxJhgcix8pYYEfRJz6mtOSpGmmF1UqvVIVeHPrWTX3e2212d2DzModvItnwHZ4sI7JJogIPMWgl5_xlRd0Xo-Ah187T3ckFdKr8NmfiPMIk/?imgmax=800" width="400" height="268"></a></p> <p align="left"><font size="4" face="Arial">Then, boys #3 says, ‘Mom! Get your <a href="http://claireshealthyhome.myshaklee.com/us/en/about_my_shaklee_story.html">Shaklee</a>!’. lol </font></p> <p><font size="4" face="Arial">So, I did. Here is a picture of our <a href="http://claireshealthyhome.myshaklee.com/us/en/products.php?sku=00430">Scour Off</a> from the Get Clean line. It is natural, non-toxic and is made from cherry pits. Smells great…no harsh fumes and safe to use around my kids.</font></p> <p><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjzma35yq2Je_mutQupkWodyq-bku6u5-6y73M1om8m7Vl54sgj9j3Yo4y98iSx6wudpqch2_Y2d9y8DeNwpo86vTvffAmMqc6ckofQK6Ecbsf3zpLYWmml2gOKlYMBMTaIdad2SfP7gx0/s1600-h/100_3963%25255B13%25255D.jpg"><img style="background-image: none; border-right-width: 0px; padding-left: 0px; padding-right: 0px; display: inline; border-top-width: 0px; border-bottom-width: 0px; border-left-width: 0px; padding-top: 0px" title="100_3963" border="0" alt="100_3963" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgaOTxe_oYiN_RPhCfT2NIQqIeuCk-1ualMaASTSfaarb3GJVSoXOofFosINLhOy9_De4FwgHjNiREtNGEZKlIjZ4ZScqOneduHIbHucHpOXuX7lt-ufq2i4WJQB_CvmbiTIbQ1FOZpQRM/?imgmax=800" width="404" height="304"></a></p> <p><font size="4" face="Arial">A little is all you need on a wet rag! It goes a long way because it is a concentrate. Then wipe on the ink. Super easy!</font></p> <p><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhCE09_EHE_g1OsLbn54h-bWaJs_cRhMRTwdDvuKhvEFTXbvE90WNqk2kQ81YiCw1yUrmq9-Uon-LS11EqmLvVr_ZzyVcAuw83XfYRW1Z_1ITtmE6E8fBmWDX_R28EJC62TIqhvgO59MLU/s1600-h/100_3967%25255B10%25255D.jpg"><img style="background-image: none; border-right-width: 0px; padding-left: 0px; padding-right: 0px; display: inline; border-top-width: 0px; border-bottom-width: 0px; border-left-width: 0px; padding-top: 0px" title="100_3967" border="0" alt="100_3967" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgkGc40Z9FViDFnG-5_NCT4ke2Lv4oH5GAsU4zE4dhEwBlgTXLhIp12ZgEu-J8iumMdQ6s4QCWMJAAyohXuVo0AS7IRtWsLCKnZ9XwH_IWY-SCDLO_kQ9wG0AiD1mWQa-H2oFyRGgJJYcQ/?imgmax=800" width="404" height="314"></a></p> <p><font size="4" face="Arial">WOW!! Look at the ink on the rag. Came right off.</font></p> <p><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgQpp5HzMYLIGNoLYrUXQMAppqNQ6LkVkeNbmcX6ofjxS7AhqlVoqdyQvxcjlJSCsn5JEQhRHXmjb3RsodeJSSA7NY25Go7EP78k5gOlKYmdUOxq0xXgSPrQRCB7nhH9ud2q6rYRh2DoC4/s1600-h/100_3968%25255B8%25255D.jpg"><img style="background-image: none; border-right-width: 0px; padding-left: 0px; padding-right: 0px; display: inline; border-top-width: 0px; border-bottom-width: 0px; border-left-width: 0px; padding-top: 0px" title="100_3968" border="0" alt="100_3968" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj5OYvcvY2HiaXMesCq3KB639sDUxsqRu9xZujB-bwlrykWFG7Sw-EZJ7823PNbaC0GFMvD767fVhreeFBI5onFcJ2TkdnC8uGvIG7_WjIFwZQ4Q2qyg3k74RAr7iJ_hP3g9Up2CYne8Zs/?imgmax=800" width="404" height="384"></a></p> <p><font size="4" face="Arial">Here it is ‘ink free’. Good thing because this was my hubbys’ grandmas’ table!</font></p> <p><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhncYUCCGuYodglHnA-R8yoqdr8RBG8xFnqehZJM9v094PphlwzxjHWjyEVTltuHZEnm-Xz7b9viNVyUqenlRfdUhuBSnN2rpk207gQ7oCumdToTj4Qq2Pg0Rs07PTkUrggK1HOwA_4n_s/s1600-h/100_3970%25255B8%25255D.jpg"><img style="background-image: none; border-right-width: 0px; padding-left: 0px; padding-right: 0px; display: inline; border-top-width: 0px; border-bottom-width: 0px; border-left-width: 0px; padding-top: 0px" title="100_3970" border="0" alt="100_3970" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEii4h08EETj62qBs2gQ-NUQYlEmS_SAj7mWoNVroHAZhWYWNz2-nGImFQ99Cdjtrnjx8gVaUwjbtIsReqkTbFz3U-wTZsdZNWuWZN4PEZgmXLXSahYJz2fUSS23DH2kROJiKOpRuXCx5mU/?imgmax=800" width="404" height="257"></a></p> <p><font size="4" face="Arial">Here are few facts on the <a href="http://claireshealthyhome.myshaklee.com/us/en/about_my_shaklee_story.html">Scour Off Heavy Duty Paste</a>.</font></p> <p><font size="4" face="Arial"><u>ALWAYS SAFE<br></u>✔ Nontoxic<br>✔ No chlorine bleach<br>✔ No toxic fumes</font></p><font size="4" face="Arial"> <p><br><u>ALWAYS POWERFUL</u><u><br></u>✔ Cleans toughest cooked-on food from<br>ovens and barbecues<br>✔ Removes rust</p> <p><br><u>ALWAYS GREEN<br></u>✔ Natural mineral abrasives<br>✔ Biodegradable surfactants<br>✔ No dyes<br>✔ No phosphates<br>✔ Recyclable packaging<br>✔ Safe for septic systems and<br>graywater</p> <p></font> </p> <p><font size="4" face="Arial"><u>Benefits</u><br>• Natural ingredients remove the toughest dried-on splatters and spills, burned-on grease, baked-on food, and sticky messes without hazardous chemicals or toxic fumes.<br></font></p> <p><font size="4" face="Arial">• Scour Off is made from natural mineral abrasives and biodegradable cleaning agents. It does not contain chlorine bleach or dye.</font></p><font size="4" face="Arial"> <p><br>• Scour Off gently removes stains other cleansers can’t and is great for cleaning tubs, ovens, sinks, and tiles.<br></p> <p>• It will even remove rust, and is great for cleaning these surfaces: copper, grout, cement, and ceramic.</p> <p><br>• Wide-mouth jar makes it easy to use.</p> <p> </p> <p>Anyone else have mishaps with permanent marker?</p> <p>Have a blessed day,</p> <p><font size="6" face="AR BLANCA">Claire</font></p> <p></font></p> Claires Healthy Homehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/07591046931633390994noreply@blogger.com2tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2180083669129193015.post-67182891271850897232011-07-26T13:01:00.001-07:002011-07-30T22:26:46.965-07:00The Great Outdoors<h1><font size="4" face="AR CENA"><font style="font-weight: normal">Hiking is an activity our family loves to do! Exploring, exercising, fresh air…all good things. I especially love the break from the tech world to just slow down, breath and take in God’s creation together.</font></font></h1> <p><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgkWuByCHQ008b9jQ5SIBqsdUjZ6_521DpC4r8OX8x546g7mgS7DMvjjMCVk29AqMA1qHRET_Ir-3GwxisMWcSoC91bQPppYWXSEov49fuS7RAAJ2QW6LFHC85FxHVpc0UF-R5p_U2jpg8/s1600-h/100_2978%25255B13%25255D.jpg"><img style="background-image: none; border-right-width: 0px; padding-left: 0px; padding-right: 0px; display: inline; border-top-width: 0px; border-bottom-width: 0px; border-left-width: 0px; padding-top: 0px" title="100_2978" border="0" alt="100_2978" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiNQQCI4h3OV_zvSAtXrXunnxvyJ9iW5bQQhFo92Wzq_FlsBrJjdsxY2J_GM13QZYi2G9yK7pez3gD4iFl3zPQLAOv3rLEtaMadbCfEftbhmCjLq_498aVuyR1zK2OoIe99fZq289McSpk/?imgmax=800" width="244" height="188"></a></p> <p><font size="4" face="AR CENA">It can create an opportunity for talking and sharing with each other that may not happen in the distraction of other stuff. Not to mention this is a free activity for the family! Be sure to pack water and snacks. (and band-aids…just in case) We use a book we found at a local bookstore that gives a huge list and description of hikes for children that we use a lot. Or you can get ideas from friends or the internet.</font></p> <p><font size="4" face="AR CENA">My sis-in-law and her boys love to hike too! Check out her blog for hikes in the Pacific NW! </font><a href="http://livinthehikelife.blogspot.com/"><font size="4" face="AR CENA">Livin the Hike Life</font></a><font size="4" face="AR CENA"> </font></p> <p><font size="4" face="AR CENA">What about you? Do you like to hike? Where have you been?</font></p> <p><font size="4" face="AR CENA">Have a blessed day!</font></p> <p><font size="4" face="AR CENA">Claire</font></p> Claires Healthy Homehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/07591046931633390994noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2180083669129193015.post-62527658787544653392011-05-23T21:47:00.001-07:002011-05-23T21:47:07.380-07:00My Favorite Cleaning Product<p><font face="Comic Sans MS">I clean <strong>Only</strong> with non-toxic cleaners in my home.</font></p> <p><font face="Comic Sans MS">I absolutely LOVE </font><a href="http://claireshealthyhome.myshaklee.com/us/en/products.php?sku=00015"><font face="Comic Sans MS">Basic H2 Organic Super Cleaning Concentrate</font></a><font face="Comic Sans MS">!!<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjn5sX7t2V2Nk2EdioJrg7EgoHKWo9KvnWh5Xu9-Pfcs1WRbHohYWyydE_wHbNZphM2jrEzGZs-opGVHZ6qII3x4vE4W9_9sw6h_-jykWFTS-hteUCXSByZi5mlpVLSnBXIU6zu0Gard60/s1600-h/100_3494%25255B25%25255D.jpg"><img style="background-image: none; border-bottom: 0px; border-left: 0px; padding-left: 0px; padding-right: 0px; display: inline; float: right; border-top: 0px; border-right: 0px; padding-top: 0px" title="100_3494" border="0" alt="100_3494" align="right" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhHgjYSLv7bzgq3ypCy6lP0ovxLsp1MHAl4Y35gjT_68JT9GFyc2ngM3A8GB01E5d3NrMRPAoaId45IUu5jm5iQoizpf_C68Jt0BiOcRWkOaGXcRqdvvDX8IoYTfudD4zYFaRMK2Wd4TOw/?imgmax=800" width="187" height="484"></a></font></p> <p><font face="Comic Sans MS"> It is Safe, Powerful, Non-Toxic and Cost-Effective!</font></p> <p><font face="Comic Sans MS">No rinse, No residue, No streak formula.</font></p> <p><font face="Comic Sans MS"> It is super concentrated and from ONE bottle I get a window cleaner, an all-purpose and a degreaser. One bottle of <a href="http://claireshealthyhome.myshaklee.com/us/en/products.php?sku=00015">Basic H2 Organic Super Cleaning Concentrate</a> = over <strong>500</strong> 16oz bottles of all-purpose cleaner! It is a concentrate so you add your own water. This means less waste and keeps the cost down. I use <a href="http://claireshealthyhome.myshaklee.com/us/en/products.php?sku=50443">these</a>.</font></p> <p><font face="Comic Sans MS"><u>Window/Glass</u></font></p> <p><font face="Comic Sans MS">1 to 2 drops of Basic H2 + 16 oz water ….YES Drops!! </font></p> <p><font face="Comic Sans MS"><u>All-Purpose</u> </font></p> <p><font face="Comic Sans MS">1/4tsp. Basic H2 + 16 oz water</font></p> <p><font face="Comic Sans MS"><u>Degreaser</u></font></p> <p><font face="Comic Sans MS">1 1/2 tsp Basic H2 + 16 oz water</font></p> <p><font face="Comic Sans MS">I use this stuff <strong>ALL</strong> over my house…..windows, countertops, sinks, granite, floors, dusting, spot cleaning, cupboard doors, shampooing the carpet, the car….</font></p> <p><font face="Comic Sans MS">It is <strong>safe</strong> for all sealed surfaces.</font></p> <p><font face="Comic Sans MS">It is <strong>safe</strong> for my children, too, which is the most important!</font></p> <p><font face="Comic Sans MS">Basic H2 has been on the market for over 50 years!</font></p> <p><font face="Comic Sans MS">To purchase some for your family or to learn more about it, visit my online store at <a href="http://www.claireshealthyhome.com">www.claireshealthyhome.com</a></font></p> <p><font face="Comic Sans MS">Have a Blessed Day!</font></p> <p><font face="Comic Sans MS">Claire</font></p> <p><font face="Comic Sans MS"></font></p> Claires Healthy Homehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/07591046931633390994noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2180083669129193015.post-71977866648816711752011-04-30T16:07:00.000-07:002011-05-02T21:20:19.288-07:00Green Means Go!So I thought I would explain a bit more the jobs my boys do on the <a href="http://http//roadtosimplify.blogspot.com/2011/04/job-wheel.html">job wheel</a>.<br /><br />My boys are 8, 12 & 14. So the expectation for how well they complete the job needs to stay age appropriate. When I introduce a new chore I work with them for awhile to teach them how to do it properly. That way they really are a help to me! I definitely don't expect perfection. With my 8 year old I still work with him on his job since he is younger. The point is to teach them responsibility.<br /><br />So....here is our list that we rotate on the wheel. Each boy is in charge of 2 jobs a week.<br /><br />1. Vacuum..this is for our living room and stairs. It is our main living area.<br /><br /><br /><p>2. Sweep...the kitchen/eating area.</p><br /><p>3. Garbage....take out trash from EVERY room in house. Replace bag.</p><br /><p>4. Dinner....set the table, clear the table or even help cook. I have been slowly teaching them how to cook simple meals. The goal for me is to have them cook dinner or any meal to help out! Love this!! They each know a few breakfast meals that they can cook for the family. Such a huge help!!<br /></p><br /><p>5. Dishes....Empty and Load. Even the 8 year old is getting good at this!</p><br /><p>6. Bathroom...In the past this only involved a daily wipe down of mirror, counter & sink because I was nervous about letting them use the cleaners for the toilet bowl. I knew they were toxic. Imagine my SHOCK when I found out that even my all-purpose cleaners and mirror cleaners have toxic chemicals that are HARMFUL! </p><br /><p>So now, we ONLY use <a href="http://http//claireshealthyhome.myshaklee.com/us/en/">Get Clean</a> products!! They are Safe, Powerful & Cheap! Seriously!!</p><a href="http://2%20%20%3ca%20href=/"><img style="TEXT-ALIGN: center; MARGIN: 0px auto 10px; WIDTH: 320px; DISPLAY: block; HEIGHT: 240px; CURSOR: hand" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5602338336885025826" border="0" alt="" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg-ajOKdJ6NeFeGqJRlBt647YivwaNZx121RRX3S_V0d5qVlVQhk0WxWhB7iwmdgmKLxMfwHW5GgVMpNU_eBYDIZSxs8ZUiTtIIxcqGfszsUD1BGZYTph3q0plpi4pYGt5cKYTL5QZz-9A/s320/100_3500.JPG" /></a><br /><br />I have been cleaning houses for 8 years and I have used alot of different products on many different houses and these are SIMPLY the best that I have EVER used.<br /><br /><p></p><br /><p>And, best of all, it is completely SAFE for all of my boys to use and clean the Whole bathroom. </p><br /><p>Can you just imagine how excited they are about this? HAHA!!</p>Actually...they really are great helpers. <br /><br /><br /><p>So now in our house GREEN means GO with all jobs for each of us. We do not have to worry about coming into contact with any harmful or breathing in any toxins. The more I have researched these products the more EXCITED I have become because they truly are that GREAT!</p><br /><p>Check out the <a href="http://http//claireshealthyhome.myshaklee.com/us/en/">website</a> for more info and get on the ROAD to a CLEAN home.<br /><br />Have a Blessed Day!</p><br /><p>Claire<br /></p>Claires Healthy Homehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/07591046931633390994noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2180083669129193015.post-25048427895506218662011-04-27T13:51:00.000-07:002011-05-02T21:23:41.713-07:00Job WheelI LOVE this job wheel we have been using for my 3 boys (ages 8, 12, 14)!!<br /><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEihKBeOLSFzhxsj8v3XQ-X8Cyl9U4D8GFMOvqKFxijhE7XK_rNDPdDB6vxiIKJHdk_-aB7nRcjSdcG83KZwpxOg1R2iHW_pEgg0IcBdEYMAkyHcVQWRK5Noutr3iRwbj4deAv8hCm9z22o/s1600/job+wheel+6.jpg"><img style="TEXT-ALIGN: center; MARGIN: 0px auto 10px; WIDTH: 400px; DISPLAY: block; HEIGHT: 300px; CURSOR: hand" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5601070517699674546" border="0" alt="" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEihKBeOLSFzhxsj8v3XQ-X8Cyl9U4D8GFMOvqKFxijhE7XK_rNDPdDB6vxiIKJHdk_-aB7nRcjSdcG83KZwpxOg1R2iHW_pEgg0IcBdEYMAkyHcVQWRK5Noutr3iRwbj4deAv8hCm9z22o/s400/job+wheel+6.jpg" /></a> I got the idea from my good friend (thanks Sheree!) who got the idea from her good friend (thanks Amy)...you know how it goes. Gotta love the mom network.<br /><br />Anyway, the way I use it is super SIMPLE for us.<br />Each boy is given 2 jobs and we turn the wheel each week on Saturdays. The goal is for them to be done daily BEFORE any 'screen time', but sometimes life gets in the way. I am flexible. However, these are their paid jobs and they get a weekly allowance paid on Fridays. If the jobs are not done for the week, then no pay.<br />They each also have general jobs just for being part of the family that they do NOT get paid for. These include, laundry, cleaning rooms, toy pick up, yard work and any other extras dad or I ask them. Our motto "we are a family of five and we ALL pitch in!"<br /><br /><br /><br /><div>Here is a tutorial on how to make one for your kiddos...<br /></div><br /><br /><div><br /><br /><div>1. Select Paper<br /></div><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjgrl537Umf5L-71Ldem8BFrZl0tl7t5Dvx-QTqVwuKDAgw-uPa76BjSyqnn1K0_Fk7_BPS5FXyNJZ0tNIswMg7sxq5XpBP2GyaSv970mHRljB5cytDex-Bm2NeIIEp4vc6yJwno7qSpKk/s1600/job+wheel.jpg"><img style="TEXT-ALIGN: center; MARGIN: 0px auto 10px; WIDTH: 400px; DISPLAY: block; HEIGHT: 300px; CURSOR: hand" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5600416840295135570" border="0" alt="" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjgrl537Umf5L-71Ldem8BFrZl0tl7t5Dvx-QTqVwuKDAgw-uPa76BjSyqnn1K0_Fk7_BPS5FXyNJZ0tNIswMg7sxq5XpBP2GyaSv970mHRljB5cytDex-Bm2NeIIEp4vc6yJwno7qSpKk/s400/job+wheel.jpg" /></a><br />2. Cut and Glue<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEggGYJd8wiXwu44h56HU85Tu09SF1Uc6pkJQxU8UEmfQ82JbX9Ov46wKLsmjVyr6PJ4FIYVM0AwJmHW1wRO5LKQ7YjXMdjsWIBdmd8vij2690Xm8OhL4Dsx0NRP0d8aGKPTQaU55KpyGgs/s1600/job+wheel+7.jpg"><img style="TEXT-ALIGN: center; MARGIN: 0px auto 10px; WIDTH: 400px; DISPLAY: block; HEIGHT: 300px; CURSOR: hand" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5601070877202964322" border="0" alt="" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEggGYJd8wiXwu44h56HU85Tu09SF1Uc6pkJQxU8UEmfQ82JbX9Ov46wKLsmjVyr6PJ4FIYVM0AwJmHW1wRO5LKQ7YjXMdjsWIBdmd8vij2690Xm8OhL4Dsx0NRP0d8aGKPTQaU55KpyGgs/s400/job+wheel+7.jpg" /></a> 3. Trace and Cut the 'wheel'<br /><br /><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi1Enss6WmrboHdiv15FMOwpJlhlY4X9Qlddq7gw5l2JqWaCSfydXVmc6BrWhWMp9BAiSuNAnbVWN1XSRn_zcY-FkMIJpIUyYGnRCYWpNE5mxr0FQ15x8htzN_xifoSaPpcP8E78SuPhMA/s1600/job+wheel+4.jpg"><img style="TEXT-ALIGN: center; MARGIN: 0px auto 10px; WIDTH: 400px; DISPLAY: block; HEIGHT: 300px; CURSOR: hand" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5600490334679483474" border="0" alt="" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi1Enss6WmrboHdiv15FMOwpJlhlY4X9Qlddq7gw5l2JqWaCSfydXVmc6BrWhWMp9BAiSuNAnbVWN1XSRn_zcY-FkMIJpIUyYGnRCYWpNE5mxr0FQ15x8htzN_xifoSaPpcP8E78SuPhMA/s400/job+wheel+4.jpg" /></a> 3. Label....my hubby gave me mine for Christmas and I use it all the time.<br /><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj80Knjj6wrPFl_Aa3cCbr6tq918O1SBxOe4ybY7OMSEVPUokTMUFafveBR3ET-1g8_SPpPUia_9mso_TKd_95mN_R9iS8w87n0xrp22CLd4BWWY-A4MiZWaM9IWWjy5neok9E5UmTSaZE/s1600/job+wheel+3.jpg"><img style="TEXT-ALIGN: center; MARGIN: 0px auto 10px; WIDTH: 400px; DISPLAY: block; HEIGHT: 300px; CURSOR: hand" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5600417788223185378" border="0" alt="" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj80Knjj6wrPFl_Aa3cCbr6tq918O1SBxOe4ybY7OMSEVPUokTMUFafveBR3ET-1g8_SPpPUia_9mso_TKd_95mN_R9iS8w87n0xrp22CLd4BWWY-A4MiZWaM9IWWjy5neok9E5UmTSaZE/s400/job+wheel+3.jpg" /></a> 4. Tack on to the Bulletin Board....the little wheel will be able to turn.<br /><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjC77I7Tw8NoHZCk0rABFBKO73V9Z1GeAnUS0DJN0dHMuIoUtNc0LSNL9z_3s2m5c2Kz4lbidbPqutkbTYUlZyDzQT7wNhkqTJxGycE_dtVc4aOrXgpWACCswgVsGazI3FNDR20SV_Irbw/s1600/job+wheel+6.jpg"><img style="TEXT-ALIGN: center; MARGIN: 0px auto 10px; WIDTH: 400px; DISPLAY: block; HEIGHT: 300px; CURSOR: hand" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5601071803777085074" border="0" alt="" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjC77I7Tw8NoHZCk0rABFBKO73V9Z1GeAnUS0DJN0dHMuIoUtNc0LSNL9z_3s2m5c2Kz4lbidbPqutkbTYUlZyDzQT7wNhkqTJxGycE_dtVc4aOrXgpWACCswgVsGazI3FNDR20SV_Irbw/s400/job+wheel+6.jpg" /></a><br />You can tailor the jobs to work for your kids, but I really do love this! I have used many different charts, but it was way too hard for me to keep up with the check marks and/or stickers.<br /><br />Hope this helps someone else too!<br /><br />Have a Blessed Day!<br />Claire </div><br /><br /><br /><br /><br /><br /><div>I am linking to...</div><br /><br /><br /><div><a href="http://www.houseofhepworths.com/2011/04/27/hookin-up-with-hoh-46/">House of Hepworths</a></div><br /><br /><div><br /></div><br /><br /><div></div><a href="http://chiconashoestringdecorating.blogspot.com/" target="_blank"><img alt="Chic on a Shoestring Decorating" src="http://i968.photobucket.com/albums/ae163/kstrieg/Blog%20Components/COAS-Party-Pick-up-Button2.png" /></a><br /><br /><br /><br /><br /><br /><br /><br /><div></div>Claires Healthy Homehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/07591046931633390994noreply@blogger.com0