Saturday, January 31, 2009

What's in a name?

I think I should start out by explaining the name of my blog--dot org. Did it have you scratching your head and wondering?

That name is also on my business cards, so I thought I would keep it simple. You see, that is the whole point of the business. I organize residential rooms for customers, most of whom I get by word of mouth. The business is in its infancy at this point, but I like the flexibility it allows me. I can schedule my appointments around my kid's school schedule and only work as many days as fit for me that week. In other words, this service oriented company allows me to put my family first. In terms of service, they are my priority.

So, if you live nearby and you need some organizational help, I would be glad to offer my services. My fees are very reasonable. As I'm beginning this endeavor, any experience I have is beneficial to me as well as the client.

If you would like me to address an organizational dilemma/question you have, please leave a comment. I will answer questions in future posts, yet another opportunity for me to learn along the way.

Thanks for allowing me to "plug" my services and offer my help to online friends, as well.

Angie

Wednesday, January 7, 2009

Shopping for Christmas 2009

There is no denying it--I enjoy getting a good deal. But when it comes to gift giving, I really try to find/make a gift that will be appreciated by the receiver. So I shop the after-Christmas sales with one-part adrenaline rush, one-part list of recipients in mind. This gets more complicated when buying gifts for my husband's department at work.
This year he asked me to assemble gifts for 8 men and 8 women, most of whom I don't know. (I don't have pictures, so bear with me.) In the gifts bags for the women, I included a Glade candle, a loaf of pumpkin bread, packet of "good" hot cocoa, and a pack of Christmas napkins, all nestled in a holiday bowl. In the men's gift bags, I had the same holiday bowls with napkins, breads, bag of assorted nuts, and an outdoor wipe mitt (great find at Dollar Tree). Each gift, including wrapping, cost under $5!
I'm so excited to already have my idea for the co-worker gifts for 2009: At Walmart, I found large plastic red/green bowls with holiday motifs around the brim. They were 50% off ($1.20) and will make the perfect fruit bowl. At Michael's, I found large cellophane bags marked down to .49/each. They will wrap the finished fruit baskets, and I will tie them with a pretty bow. (Ribbon also found on clearance.)
I plan to fill the bowls with pineapple, clementines, apples, bananas, and whatever else is on sale. A few wrapped candies scattered on top will add the final touch. Once again, I think I can assemble these gifts for under $5/each.
What is your favorite gift to give to non-family members?