Creating Order from Chaos: How I Helped a Long-Time Friend Prepare to Sell Her Home

When a dear friend of over 50 years reached out because she needed help to prepare her home for sale and felt overwhelmed because of clutter, I was eager and excited to help. She had followed my work with Chaos Organizing and felt inspired by the transformations I had achieved for others and within my own home. Balancing work and family life, she felt paralyzed by the daunting prospect of such a big project. Her initial concern was, "Don't judge." My heartfelt response was, "Are you kidding me?" My focus was solely on supporting her and applying my organizational expertise to bring order to her home as I would for any client. 

An added bonus, I couldn’t get back to Baton Rouge because of the snow!  We ended up having 3 additional days of organizing (I tackled the closet under her stairs!) and playing in the snow!  

The Plan: Targeting Key Spaces

We approached her home using my signature CHAOS Organizing Method:

• Categorize

• Helpful or Hurtful (Evaluating emotions vs. goals while purging)

• Action (Keep, Toss, Donate)

• Organize in Bins

• Simplify with Labeling

This straightforward yet effective system empowers families to maintain order long after the initial organization. You can explore this method further in a book I co-wrote, Southern Chaos: Organizing the Southern Home. Learn more at www.organizingsouthernchaos.com.

Our primary focus areas were the pantry, kitchen, and master bathroom. We incorporated drawer organizers and labeled, durable organizing bins so that order was maintainable and streamline her upcoming move.  

Step 1: The Pantry

We started with the pantry—an easy win since expired food is a no-brainer to toss. Like most busy moms, her pantry had become a catch-all for random items that belonged in other parts of the house. We grouped similar things, tossed outdated ones, and created a designated "Breakfast Food" zone to make her early mornings simpler.

Clear bins made it easy to sort snacks, baking supplies, and more. If you're shopping for bins, look for durable, stackable options with handles for easy access. Labeling them ensures order is easy to maintain.

As we sorted, we laughed over some long-forgotten snack packs and joked about how kids seem to stash random items in the most unexpected places. Moments like these made the process enjoyable and reminded her that organizing doesn't have to be overwhelming.

Step 2: The Kitchen

Next, we tackled the kitchen. By zoning it for prep, cooking, and serving, we made it easier for her to know where everything belongs—a system that makes cleanup a breeze. We decluttered drawers packed with toys, tools, and gift cards her kids had stashed. Out went unused gadgets, making space for things she loves, like her cherished fondue pot and a new set of matching silverware. (Where do all the spoons go?)

We also created a beverage zone where she could easily find coffee, tea, and everything needed to mix a cocktail. Drawer organizers gave every item a home, making the kitchen more functional and easier to maintain.

One particularly fun find? A stash of photos tucked away in a junk drawer that included snapshots of our children together when they were young. It brought back a flood of cherished memories, and we couldn't help but laugh and reminisce about those special times.

Step 3: The Master Bathroom

Finally, we turned her bathroom into a spa-like sanctuary. We tossed old makeup, consolidated medicines, and labeled purchase dates with a wet-erase marker. Clearing the counters by organizing drawer space and making better use of under-the-sink space made the bathroom look more spacious and inviting.

With organizing bins for toiletries and drawer inserts for smaller items, the space transformed into a peaceful place to relax. By moving everyday essentials into drawers, we left her counters clear, instantly creating a more polished and clean look.

She shared how much easier her mornings were now, with everything at her fingertips and no clutter to sift through. It was a small change that made a big impact.

Results: A Sanctuary for Now and a Showpiece for the Future

Helping my friend prepare her home for sale was a labor of love. Together, we created a space that felt calm for her family to enjoy during the selling process and inviting for potential buyers. Clearing counters, zoning spaces, and decluttering unused items made the home feel spacious and organized.

The process wasn't just about decluttering—it was about rediscovering joy and creating a fresh start. My friend told me she felt a weight lifted off her shoulders and couldn't wait to replicate these systems in her new home. 

If you're overwhelmed by clutter, whether preparing to sell or simply creating calm at home, I'd love to help. As a professional organizer—and a busy mom—I understand the struggle. Let me help you turn chaos into order with personalized solutions that make your space functional and beautiful.

Let's tackle the overwhelm together—because every mom deserves a home she loves.

Click here to request a consult!

Get Your Southern Home Holiday Ready Without the Stress

Get Your Home Holiday-Guest Ready Without the Stress

Well, it’s that time of year again! The leaves are falling-kinda, the air’s a little crisper, and soon enough, your front door will be swinging open to welcome holiday guests. Whether it’s your in-laws, best friends from way back, or a gaggle of cousins you only see once a year, having company over is part of what makes the holidays so special.

But let’s face it—getting the house ready for guests can be overwhelming. If you’re feeling more “WHERE DO I EVEN START?” than “Deck the halls!”, don’t worry. I’ve got some simple tips to help you get your home cozy, tidy, and ready for all those MERRY moments.

1. Start with the Spaces They’ll Use Most

This is NOT the time to deep-clean your attic or alphabetize your pantry (unless you really want to-but sipping eggnog while enjoying your tree is a MUCH better idea!). Focus on the areas your guests will actually see and use:

• The Entryway: Make sure it’s welcoming. Clear away any clutter and set out a rug or mat to catch any debris (And keep your floors cleaner!). If you’ve got a festive wreath, (If you’re Southern, you have at LEAST 3) now’s the time to hang it up.

• The Guest Room (or Space): Clean sheets, fresh towels, and a little space to unpack are the basics but Southern hospitality is all about going the extra mile! Add a touch of charm with a small basket of travel-size toiletries -like shampoo, conditioner, toothpaste and maybe even a spare toothbrush-just in case your guest forgets something. It’s the little details that say, “You’re welcome here!”

• The Bathroom: Nice scented soap, a fresh hand towel, and a scented candle can make even the smallest bathroom feel spa-like. Extra toilet paper is a must! I keep pretty bottles of shampoo, conditioner, body wash and lotion in the bathroom for overnight guests.

2. Declutter Like You’re Hosting Santa Himself

Now, don’t panic—I’m not saying you need to make your entire house look like no one lives there!. But taking 10-15 minutes a day to tackle clutter hotspots (like the kitchen counters or coffee table) can make your home feel instantly more put-together.

Pro tip: Stand in your doorway and get a glimpse of their first view of your home. Not ready…see the next pro tip!!

Pro tip: Grab a laundry basket, toss in anything that’s out of place, and stash it away in a closet until after the holidays. Nobody’s going to judge you for that—we’ve all done it!

3. Set Up a Snack Station

One thing I’ve learned? Guests love a little self-serve setup. Put together a tray or basket with community coffee pods, tea bags, hot cocoa, and a few snacks like pralines, pecans or cookies. Add a few mugs and napkins, and you’ve got yourself a cozy little corner where guests can help themselves.

4. Add a Dash of Holiday Magic

Get that wreath out of the wreath closet! You don’t need to go full-on Griswold with the decorations, but a few festive touches will make your home feel extra special. Think twinkle lights, stockings on the mantle, a wreath on the door with a monogram sash or even just a vase of fresh greenery. It’s the little things that say, “Welcome, we’re glad you’re here!”

5. Don’t Forget the Fridge

If your guests are staying overnight, stock up on breakfast basics—eggs, bread, fruit, cereal and maybe a little something sweet. And while you’re at it, make sure you’ve got their favorite drinks on hand. Nothing says “I thought of you” like a fridge stocked with Diet Coke or that eggnog your sister loves.

6. Relax and Enjoy the Moment

Here’s the most important tip of all: Don’t sweat the small stuff. Your guests are here to see YOU, not inspect your baseboards. Light a candle, put on some holiday music, and focus on making memories.

If all else fails, just remember: A warm smile and a old fashioned can cover a multitude of sins. Now go pour yourself a cup of something yummy—you’ve got this!

And if all this still feels like too much, you know where to find me. Visit www.chaosorganizing.com to learn how we can help get your home in tip-top shape, so you can spend less time stressing and more time enjoying the season.

Say Goodbye to Chaos. Step into a New Year of Order and Calm.

We have gift certificates that make great Christmas Gifts!

Martha-Carol Stewart

MC@Chaosorganizing.com

225-205-6400

Step-by Step Guide to Combating the Medicine Cabinet Chaos

Hello My Friends!

Today's tip is brought to you by our Chaos organizer, Autumn!  

With 4 children, Autumn is an expert at organizing but especially great with meds for cold and flu season.  Read about how she organizes using the CHAOS method!  

5 Steps to Getting your Medicine Cabinet Organized!

We can’t believe it’s fall already! Or “false fall” if you live in South Louisiana!

Whether you’re spending your weekends at a high school sporting event or tailgating for the tigers, we want you to be gameday ready ( and healthy!) when it actually starts getting cold out!

Here’s five quick steps to get your medicine cabinet ready for the cold and flu season using the C.H.A.O.S. organizing method!

Step 1- Clear Out and Categorize!

      Remove everything from your medicine cabinet and categorize! Wipe down the cabinets you just emptied, so that everything can be returned to a clean and tidy space! Every family is different!  

Keep the categories as broad or as simple as your family needs!

Some medicine categories include:

• Allergy/Asthma

• Adult Cold and Cough

• Kids Cold and Cough

• Digestive

• Pain Relief

• First-aid

• Bandages

• Essential oils

• Medical supplies

• Vitamins and Supplements(Keep kids vitamins separate)

• Pet Medicine

• Prescriptions

• Sleep

• Sun Screen

• Eyes

• Skin and Ointments

Step 2- Helpful or Hurtful?

Here’s your chance to remove everything that doesn’t belong in the space you’ve designated! Did your son drop his goggles in the cabinet when he brought back the sunscreen? Did your spouse confuse this for the space where you store daily vitamins? It’s time for these things to be put back into their homes! Remove the items that hurt your vision for this space!

Step 3- Action!

Time to check expiration dates! Keep what’s still serving your family and toss those nausea meds from your last pregnancy three years ago! We’re not judging! And we won’t tell if you won’t!

Step 4- Organize!

Now that you know what categories you need, it’s time to contain them! Whether you purchase new containers or use existing ones in your home - containment is key!

Step 5- Simplify!

Label your categories so that things are clearly marked when an illness or emergency strikes!

*Bonus step 6 - Stock up in places where you see a void! Whether you decide to place an Instacart order while sipping sweet tea or run to Target for “just a few essentials”- it can’t hurt to be prepared for the upcoming season change! 

Health is wealth!

Kindly,

Autumn 

and

The Chaos Organizing Team

A Guide to Hurricane Prep

 HURRICANE PREP

Certain sounds from hurricanes stay forever embedded in our mind. The loud thud of trees hitting the ground, screeching and howling as the winds whip around your house and the waves of pounding rain as the hurricane bands pass by. It can get scary at times for sure and you have to be ready to evacuate or hunker down. Here are a few tips from this seasoned southern organizer that can help you if you are new to this season. It’s certainly not everything but it’s a good start!  It may just be refresher info for those of you seasoned Gulf Coasters.

The CDC breaks down prep into 2 categories: Prep before and actions after. I am addressing the prep before the storm here.    

PLAN

• Review your homeowner’s insurance. This needs to be done prior to storm season because by the time it’s in the gulf, it’s too late to change anything. Here’s a link with some great questions to ask your agent. 

• Make sure you have emergency numbers stored in your phone. This includes but is not limited to your doctor’s numbers, local police or fire and rescue numbers, local hospital, utility companies, your veterinarian, animal control, family members, insurance agent, boss, school/daycare and neighbors. I keep a printed backup copy with my important papers just in case something happens to my phone. Here is a free printable from Apartment Guide so you can have these numbers on hand.

• Personal papers such as insurance papers, passports, birth certificates, immunization records, wills, vet records and anything else deemed important should be kept in waterproof bags or containers. See example here. 

• Create a First Aid kit or order one online. These can include non-prescription meds. Talk with your doctor about getting an emergency supply of essential meds as well as a list of current medication, dosages, allergies and any other pertinent medical information that you may need to know.

• Have emergency power sources in case you lose power. Make sure your electronics are charged ahead of time. (Extra battery phone chargers, flashlights with extra batteries, hearing aid batteries, generators, car chargers.) Here is a list from the CDC.

• Have a printed evacuation plan (in case your phone isn’t working) and an emergency plan for tornados. If you have pets, be sure to include them in this plan. This includes names and phone numbers of hotels that allow pets. 

• Protect Home-board windows and secure anything that might fly away. This is when my kids realize I have a million potted plants! lol

• Clean your shrimp boots.

• Clean your margarita machine.

STOCK UP

• Infant care items 

• Pet care items- medicines, leashes, bowls for food and water. They will need good collars with their tags attached. Make sure their vet records are with your important papers.

• Emergency food and water. CDC recommends 1 gallon of water per person per day. Food that needs little to no prep and no refrigeration is recommended because you may not have utilities. Plan for people with special dietary needs such as the elderly or infants. Here is more information about emergency foods. 

• Don’t forget to include contacts, contact solution, asthma inhaler, blood sugar monitor or any other items that you or a family member will need if you have to evacuate.

• Gas-For car and generator!

• Paper goods-Be sure to include a manual can opener.

• Ziploc bags filled with ice or freezing water bottles can help keep your freezer and refrigerator cold for a little bit if the power goes out.

• Hurricane drink supplies.

• Toilet paper-I may become a toilet paper hoarder after the Covid-19 shortage!

WE NEED AS MUCH PEACE OF MIND AS POSSIBLE THIS HURRICANE SEASON. IF YOU ARE FEELING OVERWHELMED WITH ANY SPACE IN YOUR HOME AND NEED HELP GETTING ORGANIZED, LET US HELP!

PLEASE CONTACT US AT 225-205-6400. 

Back to School Chaos to Calm

Back to School! Yes, I've said it! I know it's the phrase kids dread hearing right now. While the carefree days of summer are wonderful, there's something comforting about the routine and structure the school year brings, even if it can be a bit hectic.

With one in college and one starting his junior year, my schedule is a lot freer than it ever has been.  That being said, I remember the hustle and bustle of the mornings and evenings with younger children like it was yesterday.  It was so hard!  I like to think back to the many mornings that went off with out a hitch, but who’s kidding? So many times I ended up with someone in tears on the ride to school because by the time I said, “Get your shoes on!” for the fourteenth time, I was losing it.  Some days I was the one in tears on the way to school feeling like a terrible, chaotic mom. How could anyone have a good day if it started this way?  I have a degree in Early Childhood and Family Studies, for Pete’s Sake!  I can manage a classroom full of children, what is going wrong here?? I longed for routine and order.

The truth is we all do what we can, the best we can.  Some days this means we hit all the targets and our children look as organized as the Von Trapp children with the Captain. Other days it means we look like we are herding cats while trying to juggle chainsaws.  It’s ok, we all have those days. We get it! Well, let me tell you what I learned in those days: I finally realized I needed to apply my classroom management skills to my home. Maybe this idea can help you too!

Routines.  Routines were the key to my classroom and they were certainly key to my family having smooth mornings and evenings.  Evening routines were the most important, especially with young children. They thrive on consistency and routines. Think about your mornings.  What could be done in the evening to alleviate stress in the mornings?  For my family, this meant laying out clothes and packing lunches the night before.  

Here is a sample of our evening routine when my children were young:

• Clean up toys 

• Dinner

• Make lunches (Kept in fridge until the A.M.) 

• Get out school clothes

• Pack any papers needed in backpacks and put backpacks at the door. (Should be done at homework time.)

• Bath/Potty

• Pjs

• Books

• Lights out

Every bit of this can be done with the help of your children.  We had approved snack baskets in the fridge and in the pantry for them to make healthy choices.  They were able to help make sandwiches too.  One child didn’t want bread so she simply rolled up lunchmeat and cheese!   

If you don’t want to fight about the clothes every night, get a 5-tiered shelf that hangs on the closet rod.  On Sundays put outfits together (1 per shelf), socks and underwear included.  

If toys are given a specified home, then clean up is easier.  Mom and Dad, you have to supervise this because kids are not a fan of clean up time.  They WILL shove things where they don’t belong if you aren’t in there.  Sorry, but you all know it’s the truth.  15 minutes should do it if it’s a nightly routine.  Clean up to music to make it more fun. 

Another suggestion that children will not be a fan of:  No electronics during the week.  I was not going to fight with my children every night to put away the ipad.  Once they had phones, they were plugged in to charge in our main hall at night.  

Now that all of this is done at night, the morning routine is easy.  (Insert evil laugh)  Well, easier than before?

Here is a sample of my morning routine:

Here is a sample of our morning routine when my children were young:

• Breakfast-try to think healthy and protein filled.  You can make breakfast muffins on the weekends if needed but kids need a healthy breakfast.  

• Get dressed-Hair, clothes, shoes and brushed teeth

• Put lunch in backpack 

• Grab backpack

• Off to school.

That’s much better, right?

Now, here’s the best part.  Type your lists on your computer. (Use pictures along with the words for young children who can’t read.)  Insert these lists into sheet protectors and hang them on the refrigerator.  Tie a dry erase marker to the page.  Now, the kids can check off their own “to do” lists so you aren’t having to be responsible for every step.  You are the overseer/assistant.  The children gain a sense of independence and you gain some peace.   (Each child had its own age appropriate list.)

I unfortunately cannot alleviate the stress of homework and projects that come with this time of year, but with these routines I hope I can help you organize some of the Chaos that going back-to-school can bring.

Need help? Email us at info@ChaosOrganizing.com