Guest Picks: How to Get It Together in the New Year
20 items to help you get organized and on top of things in 2012
Every year I make the same resolutions: to be more organized, to take better care of my stuff and even to eat my vegetables (or at least to get my kids to do so). This time, I've got a secret weapon to help with my follow-through: 20 pretty finds to motivate me to get it together this year. — Steph from Modern Parents, Messy Kids
Wall Mounted Magnetic Organizer in Espresso by Umbra®
The magnetic surface of this mail organizer makes a great home for everyone's keys. It's ideal for use as a landing strip when space is tight.
Storage Bags
These storage bags have a very hip, almost homemade look, and they're "generously-sized."
Felt Bag-in-Bag
I'm forever losing my keys and phone to the black hole that is my purse. Used as an insert, this bag-in-bag adds tons of compartments to your favorite tote. A clean look and fresh color options also make it a nice little bag in its own right.
If I had a cell phone case as distinctive as this, I might never lose my phone again. These two designs are only the tip of the iceberg, as there's a huge selection of background styles, fonts and colors to choose from.
The vivid colors on this cell phone case are beautiful without being overly girly.
Index Notebook
No matter how smart my phone gets, I'll always have a soft spot for a cute little notebook that I can easily slip in my purse. I like that this one is indexed for planning, contacts and note taking.
Happy Shapes 2012 Calendar
Calendars are a great way to add a small dose of fine art to less-than-glamorous spaces like a messy desk or mail landing strip. I like the simplicity of this one.
2012 Calendar by Poppytalk Handmade
I'm much more likely to actually use a calendar if I like looking at it. The bright and vintage style of the photography in this one makes me happy.
2012 Calendar, Cute Superhero Printable PDF by Loopz Art
This Cute Superhero printable calendar is modern yet kid friendly, making it perfect for families with young children. The flaming skull character for October is my favorite.
Leather Mouse Pad, Gold
This lovely leather and gold mouse pad will keep you motivated to keep your desk neat and tidy.
The End Bookend
I'm not sure what I like most about these bookends: the words or the color. Either way, they're an eye-catching way to actually start displaying books on my bookshelf.
Jason Polan Glass Decoupage Trays
It's hard to find a masculine storage tray for my hubby's wallet, watch, phone, etc. One of these just might fit the bill.
Modern Text Bamboo Wall Art
This year I'm finally getting some family photos up on the wall. This bamboo panel is a step above framed or canvas printed photos, and the custom text on the bottom corner is a nice touch.
Felt Office Storage
Felt storage accessories are perfect for everyone in the family, regardless of age or gender. These numbered storage bins would look fantastic grouped on a playroom bookshelf or next to the bed in a teen's room.
Washing Machine Hamper
This is the type of hamper I'd imagine a hipster would have — but I love it too.
TPS Blue File Cabinet
If you have to have a filing cabinet, why not have one in a bright, modern color? These look especially great with all four colors side by side.
Monster iPad Sleeve by Yummy Pocket
My iPad deserves a happy little cover like this because it keeps my kiddos happy while I get stuff done.
Eclectic Baby Cups & Dishes
If this guy doesn't get my kids to eat their veggies this year, then I'm afraid nothing will.
Eight-Arms Hook
I'm not sure who would like this more as our new bathrobe hook — me or my son.
Next: More ideas for storage and organization
Next: More ideas for storage and organization