It’s the end of school year. They came home with backpacks chock full of…stuff.
Piles. Piles. Everywhere!!
Piles of art that Ella worked on for hours making just perfect. Piles of stories that Ethan wrote with his crazy imagination that are too cute to toss. Piles of Kindergarten memories from Matthew that I cannot let go of because he cannot grow up.
And it is about to drive me out of my ever-lovin’ mind.
I am about Type A as they come. I love for everything to have its own spot. If it doesn’t, I break out in a cold sweat. If I could have a shopping spree at any store, it would be The Container Store. If I could add anything to my house, it would be a tricked out laundry/mud room. Hooks, shelves and cubbies for everyone and everything. My favorite Pinterest board is my Organization one. These are the few pins that I actually attempt to execute.
A few months ago, I finally had enough time to tackle a Pin that I knew would get the piles off my floor and desk. And today – hallelujah – it took me about 2 minutes to clean up the piles and put the piles right in their own spot.
One of my favorite blog’s is http://iheartorganizing.blogspot.com . That is where I found the project that would save my sanity – The School Paperwork Storage System: http://iheartorganizing.blogspot.com/2010/11/school-paperwork-storage.html Praise the Lord! Something to help me with the piles of school treasures that I want to save!!
I did a little different version, but it was very similar. I decided to use a file box so I could stack them up. You can get them from any office supply store for about $10. I got brightly colored hanging files because colors make me happy. 🙂 I have a folder for each grade – preschool through 12th grade. She had some pretty colored labels you can print. However, I am too cheap to buy a color printer. I went a different route with my favorite thing in my office – my beloved label-maker. I get down right giddy anytime I get to use it!
In each grade, I put several things:
- Art
- Keepsakes (not just from school – church or made at home too)
- Copy of their school picture (and sports picture for the boys)
- Brownie/Cub Scout
- Star Progress Reports
- Teacher Conference Notes
- Year End Report Card
If I had lots of extra storage, I may put them in a closet. But I don’t, so I made them extra snazzy and put an 8×10 picture of them on the front. They are so cute, why would I put them in a closet anyway? It is actually handy having the boxes accessible. Then as things come home, I can immediately either toss in the trash or file in their adorably organized box.
Piles Poof! Be gone.
Very Happy Mama.