What’s In Your Trunk?

When was the last time you took a good look at the items in the trunk of your car? The other day I opened my trunk to retrieve my daughter’s stroller. I struggled to get it out as it was lodged in between a toolbox, an extra diaper bag, and some rather large winter boots. After working through the aggravation of prying the stroller free (and in the process unloading half the contents of my trunk), I decided enough was enough… it was time to get organized. I enlisted the help of my friend (and former colleague), Eric. Eric is … Continue reading

Packing Part 2: Packing Post 9-11

Whether you are packing for an annual family trip or for the trip of a lifetime, traveling post 9-11 means putting more thought into what and how you pack. With the new checked baggage screening procedures in place, the Transportation Security Administration (TSA) has come up with some packing tips to help save you time and money. · Keep all checked bags unlocked. If your bag is selected for random screening, agents will have to break the locks to get inside. And believe me they will. When this policy was first implemented I didn’t realize what happened after you left … Continue reading

Packing Part 1: What To Know Before You Go

I love to travel, but I hate to pack. Perhaps I inherited my severe dislike for packing and unpacking from my mom (she blames my grandmother). Whatever the reason, traveling equals packing and knowing a few time-tested strategies can go a long way in helping make packing more tolerable and your next trip more enjoyable. 1. Martha Stewart swears by it and I must admit I tried it and it works. It’s tissue paper and it works especially well on delicate items (like a sequined dress or blouse). Lay the item face down and place tissue paper on top. Fold … Continue reading

Emergency Kits: Part 1

Someone I know had to evacuate her house a few months ago. She lives near a busy road, and there was some kind of accident, nothing too serious except that the truck involved in the accident was carrying some kind of dangerous chemical. So there she was, with her small children and another child she was babysitting, when a police officer knocked at her door to tell her to get out of the house immediately. She explained that it would take her a few minutes to get everything together and the officer told her she didn’t have a few minutes. … Continue reading

Your Home: Packing to Move

Part of home life involves moving out of your home to relocate. Moving can be a stressful experience for any family, but these tips will help make the job a bit smoother. 1. Start early. As soon as you learn that you will be moving, start packing things you don’t need right away. Take down artwork and pack it up. Pack your holiday decorations and other seasonal gear. Anything that isn’t a necessity can be packed early. Designate a space for pre-packed items, such as one closet, the guest room, or an area in the attic. 2. Sort before you … Continue reading