Simplifying Life: Oganization Printables & Ideas--Errands, Menus, Cleaning, Chores!

I am always trying to find ways to keep structure and organization in our home. Let's just say, I've never been one to "just wing it". I found two websites through Pinterest, Design Finch and Desiring Virtue. They offer free Organization Printables, covering everything from weekly planners, menu planners, chores, and cleaning schedule lists. With Spring coming soon, what a great time to get things in order around the house! You can even use these to give you ideas on how to create your own weekly list. For example, I made a weekly list that only had a Menu Schedule, Appointments, and Chores. I broke it down by days of the week, and spread my chores out evenly throughout the week. I even did one for the kids, to ensure that their work is getting done, and give them some responsibility in the home. Here are some things I was sure to include on my lists:

House-Cleaning Chores:

Laundry
Dust

Clean Bathrooms

Vacuum

Mop Floors

Sheets Changed

Dishes
 Quick Pick-up of Piles

Other Chores:

Pay Bills

Grocery Shop

Get Gas for Car

Clip Coupons

Go to Bank

Menu Planning

Kids Chores:

Make Bed

Clothes off Floor

Brush Teeth

Feed Dog

Put Their Own Laundry Away (on the days I wash laundry)

Clean Up Shoes in Entryway

Empty Trash Cans

Playroom Picked Up

Sheets off Bed (for me to wash)

Trash/Recycle to Curb

I had this system already going, but on several different lists, which made it confusing to track. This basically consolidates it all into one! I must say, I am a firm believer that when you have a task written down, it tends to get done a little quicker. There is satisfaction in being able to cross things off, as the day goes on! The key is to plan your weekly chores out in a way that doesn't overwhelm you. For instance, I mop my floors on the same day I vacuum, as I need to get the dog hair up first any ways. I also determined what days I would do specific chores, based on other set events happening during the week. For instances, if you have less events happening on Mondays and Tuesdays, then schedule your larger chores on those days, verses cramming it into an already full day. Also, organize your children's chores around yours. For example, I have them cleaning their playroom the day before I am scheduled to vacuum, or emptying trash cans the day it needs to go to the curb. It is helpful if you work out your schedule and set the chore dates, verses changing it every week. It really does make life easier, as well as release the stress of wondering "when you'll get it done"!