Join the movement {Mommy back-to-school organization}

Well with my children on a vacation to visit my great-aunt I decided I would try not to miss them too much by staying busy.  My husband and I took photos of just the two of us that were much needed for our bedroom and had a mini date night.  It was definitely an interesting beginning since I missed the kids so much I wanted to just lay in bed and talk to them on the phone.  Can’t wait for them to come home but I’ve definitely been productive preparing for back-to-school; I’ve gotten most of my school shopping done (including supplies), the MommyMobile (aka Honda Odyssey) cleaned inside and out, progressing through my house deep cleaning one or two rooms per day and lastly diving head first into learning to begin extreme couponing.   

The MommyMobile was my first assignment that I figured I could tackle on my lunch break boyyyy what was I thinking.  I was successful in cleaning everything very good excluding the two front door panel pockets and the trunk which remains on my to-do list (I’ll get it done I promise…lol). 

Next, starting on my room schedule because who has time to deep clean when the kids are in school and fall sports/activities begin.  Not Me!!!   So thus far I have most of the laundry done (but need to fold and put away) so I’ve been going through each of the children’s bedrooms cleaning out drawers and deep cleaning them so that the laundry has a nice neat home.  I’ve completed the 6 year old Diva bedroom, the 3 year old twins bedroom and almost completed the 13 year old bedroom (have her dresser drawers remaining).  This type of success makes a mommy really excited because it is difficult to have ALL clothes folded in drawers, nothing on the floor, fresh clean linens and all hangers facing the correct direction and clothes categorized in the closet.  I have our playroom to get cleaned and back organized b/c it is a wreck, the laundry room needs a good organizing touch (which may have to wait for my mommy’s assistance) and then to deep clean the master bedroom and bathroom.

School shopping was a breeze for me as is most shopping for clothes and shoes since that is one of my hobbies.  Yes, I said it I love to shop for clothes and shoes it makes me smile.  J  I found wonderful deals shopping Justice clearance rack and receiving an additional 20% off of the clearance price for the Diva.  I received more deals shopping Marshalls a discount department store for my teen and got wonderful deals including a pair of skinny jeans for $5.00.  I moved my deal hunt to Staples for school supplies which I was able to get everything for under $35.00 (following their weekly ad).  I was also formally introduced to Ebates.com, which I had previously heard about but never took the time to research myself and sign up.  So of course all of my online shopping was done through Ebates stores to get any dollar or two back that I can.  I have a few last minute items to purchase when they are back to try them on and I can then close that chapter as well.  Look at that Mommy success!!

My great deals lead me into my new adventure of determining to become a successful extreme couponer.  I’ve researched organization techniques all week to find which is best for me from; Ziploc bag techniques, totes, small plastic bins, large plastic bins to my choice of the binder technique.  Now upon choosing the binder I was not aware there are different filing techniques for the binder.  For all things savings and organizing I always rely on my trusty friends at thekrazycouponlady.com   These ladies are the go to for all coupon needs, organizing needs, weekly ad needs and all else savings (I’m sure you get my point).  So for my mommies out there that are looking to join me in this couponing organization adventure I have copied the link to the video that I’m using below. 

http://thekrazycouponlady.com/2010/09/24/how-to-start-your-coupon-binder-this-ones-for-you-kathie-lee/

I’ve decided to organize using the category technique but it’s best to do what works for you.  I typically shop with all or most of my children so I like to have the quickest trip possible while in the grocery store and be as prepared as I possibly can be.  I plan to add a note pad for my shopping list to the binder and it will be stored in the trunk (just ordered a new trunk organizer as well).  

Collapsible trunk organizer

You see there are more steps that we as mommies can take to have additional peace and organization in our lives when preparing for back-to-school.  I wish I would have figured this out years ago rather than waiting until my oldest is headed into 8^th grade.  So I figured I would share some of my preparations with you all, hope they help someone.

Until Next Time.