Eye/Ear Candy

cheap in the form of a lightbox

I made a light box for my photo taking needs. This is super cheap- cardboard box, tissue paper, and packing tape. I've already put my finger through the tissue paper on all sides. I want to make a box out of foam core at some point. This is a photo of travel tissue cases I made out of a file sheet, a piece of computer paper, and some decorative paper. Super easy to make and I put my business card on the back side to do some marketing. I will show you how to make soon!

I hate to see you go but love to watch you leave

I sold my chaise lounge yesterday on craigslist. It was so big- it was a commitment owning it. So happy it is gone. Make room for art room downstairs to be closer to the computer. Technology rules my world.

Be Good

Reusing your lunch items saves money and is good for the planet. Love the Ziploc baggie but it is hard for me to use it for a snack and then toss it. I just rinse and hang and reuse until they start to look bad. Why use plastic silverware? I grabbed a bunch of mismatched utencils from the thrift store so I don't have to worry about losing my good set- also comes in handy if you throw a party. Everyone uses recycled bags now a days- at least everyone I know. Easy to toss in your purse- buy the pretty ones. Check out delight.com for some great planet-friendly sets.

AM Routine: 5:00-5:30 Brew Coffee, Make Lunch, Check Weather

When I get up in the morning I go down to the kitchen, turn on the TV to check the weather. That will determine if I am going to ride my bike or walk to work. Then I turn on the already-set-up-to-brew-in-the-am espresso maker- I like to fill it up after I make one so it is always ready. Then I make my lunch- usually a salad, fruit, and yogart. I used to spend $40 on starbuck's coffee and $30 on lunches during the 5 day work week. Now I spend $40 for a week on groceries. That's $6 a day for breakfast, lunch, dinner, and lattes for 7 days. It is tight but doable. Stock up on espresso beans when they are on sale and freeze what you can for a rainy day.

Best Timer Ever!

I find that the best way to stay focused when you are frazzled and on a time limit is to set a timer. These are the best timers ever. They are made by Salter, come in great colors, have a magnet on the back and a stand, and are only 10 bucks at Sur La Table! I had to buy on for my boyfriends' place also. It's amazing what you can get done in 15 minutes.

My Morning Routine- The Break Down

I thought I would give you a look at my morning routine. I made it so I wouldn't have any excuses for being late to work or not exercising. You can make your own routine by writing down all your to-dos in the am and going backwards from your departure time. That will give you the time you need to get up in the morning- that's 5:00 for me. I made my morning list on checklist.org, then made 2 copies- 1 upstairs and 1 downstairs. This is the life of a 37 year old with no kids, no pets, happily-dating-but-not-living-together, female. I do have 40 houseplants (yes,40. I just counted). My mornings are like a easy listening 70's song- feel the breeze? Ahhhhhh