My {Happy} Organizing Accident

Just last weekend I traveled to Southern California for my nephew's baptism day celebration. And while I only had a short amount of time to pack, I experienced a happy accident along the way. You see, purely by luck I discovered an already packed overnight bag ready and waiting for me in my closet! All I had to do was add a few things, and my overnight bag was ready to go! Yay!

You may be asking yourself, "Why did Cathy have an already packed overnight bag in her closet? And why is she so excited about it?" Let me just tell you! A couple of weeks ago, I planned to spend the weekend at my brother's house where my parents were visiting. I packed my bag, brought it with me, and ended up staying for only one night. When I got back home, I put the bag in my closet, intending to unpack it later that evening. Little did I realize, I forgot all about my packed bag...until it came time to pack it again!

For me this was a very happy accident! Then I had a light bulb moment. Wouldn't it be nice to keep a pre-packed overnight bag ready and waiting in my closet all the time? This way, whenever I need to spend the night again, my packing will be done in no time at all.

So that's exactly what I did!

Here are the contents of my (newly pre-packed) overnight bag...

an unopened toothbrush
a tube of toothpaste
shampoo & conditioner
a comb & ponytail holders
an extra blow dryer
a make-up bag
sunscreen
a baseball cap
a camera
a pair of pajamas
underwear and socks

The next time I go away for the weekend, all I have to do is pack a few outfits, some shoes, and I'll be ready to go! Easy! Who knew a little procrastination could actually lead to better organization? ; )

We had a wonderful time at my nephew's baptism, and the day couldn't have turned out nicer.

What items would you include in your own (pre-packed) overnight bag?

Happy organizing, saving & packing,

Cathy

Photo courtesy of Vanessa Christenson

An Attitude of Gratitude

Today, I'm feeling grateful for this beautiful brick church across the street from our home in Michigan. Every afternoon, the church bells ring, and they are such a peaceful presence in our neighborhood.

Here is a lovely and inspiring quote written by Author Melodie Beattie...

“Gratitude unlocks the fullness of life. It runs what we have into enough, and more. It turns denial into acceptance, chaos to order, confusion to clarity. It can turn a meal into a feast, a house into a home, a stranger into a friend. Gratitude makes sense of our past, brings peace for today, and creates a vision for tomorrow.”

What are you feeling grateful for today?

Happy organizing, saving & feeling grateful,

Cathy