Friday "Flower" Finds

I love flowers.  There's just something in a bunch of blooms that make me smile.  See what I have found today.



Orchid Explosion Candle Holder by LaBellaCandela

Surprise Visit

Just started to do some "cleaning up" when I had a surprise visitor last Saturday.  My Entryway is already nice and presentable.  Remember the shoe boutique? Well, it's gone. 

By getting my kids excited, they were able to clear up the Living Room in 30 mins. Guess where they dumped all their toys? 

As for the Bathroom  (yes, this is a visitors must see), I'm proud to say that I do my best to keep it tidy all the time. Everyday, I make it a point to keep the sink area clutter-free by just having the soap dish and hand lotion.  To make that area guest ready, I always have a decorative scented soap on the sink soap dish.  Call it an indulgence, but believe me a pretty soap can make a nice impression to any guest.  

What? Decorative soap for everyday use?   Why not!  Yes, I'm encouraging you to use those soap gifts you've receive 4 Christmases ago.  I know some are too pretty to use but you'll create more impact when you literally "use" it.  To pricey? Not really!  You can get "samples" from local crafters at fairs and flea markets. I've found great shops in Etsy that make affordable, beautiful and guest size soaps.    One of my favorites is from http://www.luchi.etsy.com/ . The rose soap is not only pretty and moisturizing, it also gives a fresh rose scent that doubles as an air freshener. 

Not in Season?

My Entryway is a major clutter zone and it's the first thing that people see.  Last night when I got home after a "decent quiet time", my mood changed instantly when I opened the door.  There's at least 30 pairs of shoes and winter jackets for the whole gang.  Hello, Memorial Day is over and it's already 85 degrees out.

Clean up tip for today --- If it's not in season, it shouldn't be out! 

That means no more coats, boots, gloves and scarves.  Plus, only 1 pair of shoes per family member allowed on the stairway.  That's 6 pairs total.  (Yup!  I'm not exaggerating when I mentioned 30 pairs welcomed me.)

Simple enough? Boy, what a big difference!

Thanks http://www.galleryoncentral.etsy.com/  for the great photo.

Time for a "Clean House"

It's been a year since I invited someone to my house.  "What's the big deal?"  Well, I just happen to grew up in a house that's considered to be "the best hangout" place ever.  Entertaining is always a big part of me.  Why my two girls (who's now 6 and 4) still remember the excitement each time we expect company.  

What's keeping from entertaining then?  Clutter!  With my super O.C. personality, I can't seem to make my house people-ready.  I guess my daughter got tired of my excuse of "cleaning up" first before we invite her friends over that she never bothered to ask me anymore.  

For those with kids under 5 who are staying at home would probably agree with me that keeping a tidy house is next to impossible.  Take note... "Next to Impossible".  This means that there's still some hope of having a house that one can be proud of when there's an unexpected knock at my door.

Since the "Clean House" team will not come to my rescue, today, I decided to tackle the problem.  With just an hour to spare each day,   I'm challenging myself to make my house visitor ready.  Something I  want to accomplish before I leave for vacation in 20 days.