get into the zone

As you know, I’m all about finding SIMPLE ways to get and stay organized; and what better time to simplify your organizing routine than in the summer? One of the SIMPLE techniques I use to stay organized is to create a mini zone—a small container or designated spot that houses everything you need to do a particular activity. These are a few of my favorite summer zones.

• Outdoor eating mini zone: in a plastic bin, corral together items for eating outside, like a small salt and pepper shaker, non-breakable plates and cups, along with napkins and utensils in a utensil caddy. Place your bin on a melamine serving tray and you’ll be ready to eat outside at any time the weather is just right!

• Outdoor gear mini zone: corral together items like sunscreen, sun protective lip balm, insect repellent, sunglasses, and hand sanitizer into small galvanized buckets. Put this mini zone by the door you use most when you’re heading out to picnics, barbeques and ball games. Just grab what you need from the buckets on your way out—and you’re good to go!

• Pool gear mini zone: store everything you need for a trip to the pool in the same spot—beach towels, goggles, pool toys, your current at-the-pool reading materials, and a lock for the pool locker. (Store this near your outdoor gear mini zone or add sunscreen and sunglasses to your pool gear mini zone!)

• Gardening mini zone: keep your gardening gloves, a small trowel, spade and other tools needed to weed in a 5-gallon bucket and keep it by the back door or in the shed. Not only will you have all your gardening supplies in one spot, but when you dead head flowers or pull weeds you can put them in the 5-gallon bucket for added convenience!

Mini zones make it simple to get ready for an event and put things away afterward! Why not take action today and set up your own summer mini zone?