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I must admit I am pretty organized, but I was attracted to this book because as all homeschoolers know, even the most organized homeschooler occasionally becomes overwhelmed. Always searching for new ways to keep on top of it all, "Home Management 101" did not disappoint me! Written in an easy to read, step by step format, just reading one chapter a week should motivate even the most reluctant to get started on the path to a more organized home. There truly is something for everyone!
Mrs. Williams starts out by outlining a simple 4-step process to getting our homes under control complete with little goal sheets and planners (nothing overwhelming here). Chapter 2 covers ideas for storing, shelving and sorting all that stuff we seem to accumulate. It also highlights some suggestions for enlisting your recruits for this "team-effort" project and establishing a paper de-clutter system. Chapter 3 deals with common areas where we as families seem to accumulate the most clutter: closets, kids rooms, staircases, and kitchens. The Organized Parent is the title of Chapter 4 and it could be subtitled, "Preparing for Life's Ups and Downs, Most importantly the Downs." I really found some common sense wisdom in this one! The final 3 chapters focus on organizing the office or workspace (substitute class room for homeschoolers), time management, and streamling cleaning duties.
Now if this is not enough for you, sprinkled throughout the book are little "bright ideas" like the following paraphrase: "Create a list of people and occasions that you need to buy for each year, complete with the amount you have to spend and gift suggestions. Store this on your computer so that it can be easily updated, but keep a copy in your wallet so that you can make notes while out shopping."
In the appendix, you will find a recommended reading list for further ideas, and a list of organizing products and websites, along with other various notes to aid you in your journey. Like I said, this is an easy read. I read the entire book in the doctor's office. It is a worthwhile read. Most of us could use a little help in one of the above areas. The 4-step process used by Mrs. Williams can be applied to any area where change is needed. "Home Management 101" is effective organizing help for busy parents!
--Product Review by: Teri Lucas, Staff Writer, The Old Schoolhouse Magazine
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