Simplify Life

Make Your Next Business Trip an Opportunity for a Family Vacation

noreply@blogger.com (Caitlin Campbell) — Mon, 25 Jul 2011 15:30:00 +0000

It used to be that mixing business with pleasure was taboo. The family stayed home and you flew off to your business trip. Maybe you stayed in a lonely hotel, did what you had to do for work and watched the late movies in the hotel room.

Thankfully it’s become more acceptable, even encouraged to take the family on some trips. If you feel like you’re neglecting your family that kind of stress isn’t good for you and it’s not good for your business. Studies show that business travelers make many more medical claims than others in the office.

While not all business trips are conducive to taking the family, you can turn many of them into a nice family vacation with just a little imagination and planning. With that in mind, here are some suggestions on how you can combine your next business trip with a family vacation:

Business conventions are often held in great places and are planned with family activities in mind. Do some research on that area and find out what your family wants to see and do.

Some people choose to drive rather than fly to the business destination. If you plan well, you and your family can visit many attractions along the way. In time, your family will get to explore much of the United States.

Extend your stay past the business part of the trip and take a few days with the family. Just remember the flight for your family and the personal expenses are coming out of your pocket. (Be careful not to include personal expenses or you’re leaving yourself open to an unwanted audit.)

Why not meet your spouse half way for a romantic get-away? Many airlines have hubs in great destinations. Sure you’ll have the expense of that extra flight for your spouse, but if you search for a great deal you’ll end up with a fairly inexpensive vacation. Then you can fly home together after a refreshing couple of days.

Ask your boss if it’s okay to make a detour and fly home by way of your relatives’ home. It may tack on some extra expense to the flight that you should cover, but the bulk of the travel expense would be already covered by the “business trip.”

You can combine a business trip with a family vaction but it does require a balanced attitude. Just make sure that during the business part of the trip, you take care of business and don’t ignore it. And when you’re out doing activities with your family, try to keep your focus and attention on them, not on your work.

Nothing dampens the enjoyment of a trip more than returning home to a mess. We at Simplify can give you peace of mind – knowing that your home is well taken care of while you’re gone. That way, when you arrive home to a sparkling clean house and a well-manicured lawn, you’ll keep those happy, relaxed feelings intact a little longer.

How to Get Your Kids Enthusiastic About Helping You around the House

noreply@blogger.com (Caitlin Campbell) — Wed, 20 Jul 2011 23:10:00 +0000

Are you doing ALL the work around the house this summer? Is it a challenge to get your kids to pitch in and help? If so, you are not alone!

The biggest reason why kids don't like to help around the house or do their chores is because "it's boring." They would rather do something that is fun. But come on...who doesn't? Children must learn that fun has to be balanced with responsibility. That is the reality of life especially when they grow into adults. By preparing them to help around the house now, you are not only spreading the workload you’re also preparing them for the future.

Here are tips to help you implement a chore routine into your household:

Make it FUN! Doing chores is usually considered the opposite of fun – so why not make it more enjoyable? Can you turn a chore into a game? There are lots of creative ways to do this. Click here for some suggestions that we liked. How about turning up the music and dancing while working?

Match the right chore to the right age. Choosing the right task for the right age is important to keep in mind. If it’s something too difficult, your child will likely get discouraged. As they get older, give them more responsibilities. Also start when they are young. Training them when they are little is only going to help you out more when they get older.

Don't punish with chores. Chores should be a regular part of life, not something that is used to punish children. If you turn chores into a punishment, it will only make them hate it even more.

Give them a choice. Allow your child to pick what chore they would like to do. Give them two or three options to choose from. That way they get a say, but they still have to participate. You still maintain control while allowing them an amount of freedom.

Clean as a family. Your child will feel less put out if they see everyone participating in a household chore instead of just them. Have a regular time during the day that everyone gets their own housework done.

Set expectations. Children need boundaries. When assigning the chore that you would like them to do, explain how to do, how long they have to get it done, and then the consequence if they do not follow through. By doing this, you can avoid nagging which is an irritant to children. Make sure to follow through with the consequence if they do not meet the expectation. If you do not, then your child will never take what you say about chores seriously.

Lots of praise. Everyone performs better when they are praised. Look for opportunities to praise your child's hard work. If the chore has been done incorrectly, don't criticize. Rather, commend them for their efforts and then kindly give them a suggestion for next time. Some parents have found that a reward system in addition to verbal praise works well.

If the chores seem to be adding up and you just can't keep a handle on them, consider hiring a housekeeper. If you live in the Silicon Valley our home concierge service can help you to find one that suits your needs. We want you to enjoy your summer with your loved ones. Contact us for a complimentary in-home consultation.

How to Eat One Meal Together as a Family (at Least Five Times a Week)

noreply@blogger.com (Caitlin Campbell) — Mon, 11 Jul 2011 15:30:00 +0000

Life today is BUSY. With the high cost of living, many families need both parents to work longer hours. Single parent families deal with even greater demands. And with so many activities available, it’s become the norm for families to grab fast food on the fly.

More and more experts recommend that despite our busy lifestyle, families should try to eat one meal together each day. That may seem old fashioned and impossible to many, so here are some of the benefits families can experience as well as some tips on how to make it doable. You’ll see that, even though it requires effort, the benefits far outweigh any inconveniences.

The benefits of eating together as a family:

Improves communication. Mealtime is a relaxed time to discuss what everyone’s done during the day, funny things you’ve seen, new things you’ve learned, or times to tell family stories to give children a sense of their history. If children learn to feel comfortable talking with parents over these little things, they’ll more likely talk about the big things.

Develops good relationship skills. It’s a unique opportunity to prove to your children that you value them and enjoy being with them. Also they can learn good manners by simply saying, “thank you for passing the salt” “please, pass the butter” or “may I have the ketchup”. And, as everyone helps prepare the table and food for the meal, you’re learning to work as a team.

Improves nutrition. Eating healthy meals together in a warm, secure environment can decrease the risk of developing eating disorders. And you’re more likely to eat healthy fruits and vegetables. As a result of improved nutrition, children are less likely to be overweight thus avoiding future illnesses such as heart disease or diabetes.

Improves scholastic performance. Because of better communication and language skills practiced at mealtimes as well as the self-confidence and self-worth nourished within a loving family, children do better at school.

Lessens the risk of abusing addictive drugs, tobacco, and alcohol. The close relationship that forms between parents and children at mealtimes provides a sense of belonging that children need. It helps them to excel in life and they won’t feel the need to escape through these abuses.

Once you’re convinced that the effort is worth it, here are some tips for establishing a regular family mealtime.

View family meals as a priority.
Work around schedules so everyone can be there. If someone has an evening appointment, plan your family meal for breakfast that day.
Get rid of all distractions including the TV, radio, text messaging, books, etc, during the meal. This is time to interact with each other.
Shop and prepare ingredients on the weekend for the busy weekdays.
Make extra dishes that can be frozen for later use.
Get an easy cookbook and develop some family favorites that are easy to fix.
Learn to use a crockpot that cooks your meal while you’re at work.
Pick up healthy, tasty food from your favorite restaurant or use a meal delivery service.

Families who make the effort to eat at least 5 meals per week together get the most benefits. We at Simplify want to assist you in every way possible – which includes planning meals, shopping for healthy ingredients, and preparing food right in your own kitchen. Contact us for a free consultation and learn how you can create more time to spend with your family.

Tips on How to Make Your Bedroom a Relaxing Oasis

noreply@blogger.com (Caitlin Campbell) — Mon, 04 Jul 2011 15:30:00 +0000

What does your bedroom look like? Maybe a better question is – what does it feel like? Hopefully it is calm and soothing like a little personal oasis. If it isn't, then you might want to consider making some adjustments. Your bedroom should be a place where you can escape from the chaos, relax and rejuvenate. Making this transformation can be simple.

Here are a few suggestions to turn your bedroom into your personal haven:

1. Choose the right paint color. Blue has been proven to be the most soothing color of all. If blue is not your thing, then stick with any of the cool colors like green or neutrals.

2. Get rid of clutter. The more clutter you have in your bedroom, the harder it will be for you to relax. All the things you keep in your room are just reminders of what you need to do. So clear out anything that does not belong in a bedroom.

3. Organize. Whatever you decide to keep in your bedroom, keep it neat and organized. Invest in a bookshelf for books, hide extra blankets in a chest, and be sure to pick up the dirty clothes that are on the floor and put them in the hamper.

4. Smell like a spa. Make your bedroom smell delicious by spritzing essentials oils on your pillows or sheets. Lavender, bergamot, chamomile, and marjoram are great choices. Another option is to light candles or incense. For a more subtle approach, place fresh cut flowers on your nightstand.

5. Invest in good quality sheets. Higher threads counts ensure a softer sheet. This can really affect your comfort level when you sleep. It’s a worthwhile investment!

6. Eliminate electronics. It's so tempting to have a TV, laptop, or cell phone in the bedroom, but all of those devices are stimulators. If you have to have them, at least put them out of sight when they are not in use – blinking lights are not relaxing.

As a busy working mother, you deserve a place where you can escape from the rest of the world. If decorating and organizing is not your forte, consider hiring an interior designer to help you turn your bedroom into a retreat. Simplify can help you find the right designer for you needs and taste. Contact us for more information.

Top 10 Things Your Family Can Do Together This Summer

noreply@blogger.com (Caitlin Campbell) — Mon, 27 Jun 2011 21:47:00 +0000

Summer is a great time to try fun new activities. Here in the Silicon Valley it’s an ideal time to be outdoors and traveling. It’s also a good time to think about how you can draw your family closer together. Are there new family traditions that you can start now that will be really meaningful to your children in years to come?

Below is a list of ten things your family can do together to have a great time:

Visit local museums, zoos, and parks. Palo Alto Children’s Museum and Zoo and Children’s Discovery Museum are popular places for families. Many museums have free admission one day a week, so check the websites. Save some money by looking for the CityPass network, which offers tickets to popular places for about half of what you’d pay at the gates.

Play in the water. Nothing is more refreshing on a hot summer day than taking a dip in the cool water or playing in a sprinkler. Make sure you teach your kids to swim. If they’re still too little to really swim you want to start by teaching them water safety. That way you can visit the beach, streams, or pools with greater peace of mind.

Get plenty of exercise. Try some new age-appropriate activities whether it’s playing sports, flying a kite, jumping rope, riding bicycles, etc. A unique fun center to burn off some of that excess energy is Sky High Sports in Santa Clara – it’s a trampoline you can’t fall off of.

Learn a new creative skill in arts and music. You can do it yourself or you can check out the Community School of Music and Art in Mountain View. They have great programs for all ages from toddler to adult and they’re masters at helping children with special needs to artfully engage with the world around them.

Explore your own city. Now’s the time to find those special places close to home. Get a guidebook and visit the local attractions. Try new places to eat. Visit a farmer’s market like the one downtown San Jose on Fridays.

Explore neighboring cities and see what they have to offer in the way of entertainment and new cuisines. Just the sights and sounds in San Francisco alone could keep you busy all summer.

Take a road trip. It doesn’t have to be stressful if you get a travel guide and plan fun things along the way. Be spontaneous and take that side trip to something that sounds interesting. Take along healthy snacks, CDs of music and books, games, and layers of clothing that are easy to wear.

Begin a new family tradition Many people take photos to remember special times. Why not take it a step further and begin a new tradition?

Collect one ornament or memento per year for your child that summarizes what made the year special.
Visit a different winery each year and buy a bottle of wine that stores well. By the time your child moves out, graduates from college, or gets married you’ll have a collected a unique gift to give them.
Plant a tree and take an annual picture of your child next to it showing how much each has grown.
Read together as a family for 15 minutes every night. Snuggle on the sofa, as mom reads the narrative and dad reads the dialogue giving each character personality, can’t you just hear the giggles and see the smiles?

Make meaningful connections with your family. How long has it been since grandparents have visited? Are there aunts, uncles and cousins your children don’t know? Don’t let another year slip by. Why not invite them to visit and record the family stories so their heritage doesn’t get lost. Make videos, recordings, scrapbooks, photos, or even begin a family diary so you can capture all of those memories.

Connect with the earth and the wonders around you. Get your hands in the earth and grow a garden and make garden decorations. Visit the Hakone Japanese Gardens in Saratoga or the Heritage Rose Garden in San Jose for a scent-sational experience. Lie on the grass and see the shapes in the clouds overhead. Go where it’s dark so you can see the stars and the fireflies. Visit a planetarium or observatory.

With the incredible variety of wonderful things to see and do in Northern California, it won’t be hard to pick something your whole family can enjoy doing together. The challenge is to make the time to do it before your children are grown and you’ve lost the opportunity.

How to Hire and Possibly Fire Your Housekeeper

noreply@blogger.com (Caitlin Campbell) — Mon, 20 Jun 2011 15:16:00 +0000

You’ve work hard all day and come home to the same dingy house you left. The dishes are still on the counter, the floor is still sticky from spilled syrup, the dining room table has a smiley face in the dust, and the sofa cushions are wadded up because they haven’t been fluffed in ages. And you’re too tired to care.

Rather than putting up with it, have you considered hiring a housekeeper? Imagine how wonderful that would be!

There are many factors to consider when hiring a housekeeper. Will you use an agency or hire an independent housekeeper? Will you be home while they work or will you need to let them in? Will you trust them with a key? How often do you want the housekeeper to come? Will you pay by the hour or job?

What you should do before you hire a housekeeper:

Know what you want done. Time how long it takes you to do the cleaning you want. It will give you an idea of how long it should take the housekeeper and if you’re making reasonable requests.

Write a list of all the jobs. This will ensure that there’s clear communication and nothing is missed. Check to see if the work is done and give the housekeeper honest feedback – commendation as well as areas to improve.

Be up front about extra jobs you’ll want. A housekeeper has a set routine of doing things, so you can’t expect extra jobs to be done for free. Be sure to pay a reasonable fee for them

Straighten up the clutter. You’ll save money if you let the housekeeper concentrate on cleaning not organizing your stuff.

Put away money and valuable so there’s no temptation. If you have possessions you don’t want them to touch, clearly tell them.

Keep your relationship businesslike. Some people run into trouble when they’ve made the housekeeper a part of their family and then can’t fire them when the work isn’t being done well.

Set house rules. Do you want your radios or TVs used? Are there rooms that shouldn’t be entered? Can they eat your snacks?

Now that you’re ready to hire, what questions should you ask?

Are you bonded and insured?
How long have you been working as a housekeeper?
Do you have references?
Are you reliable in arriving at the scheduled day and time?
Will you supply your own cleaning products and vacuum or use what’s here?
Do you know how to care for possessions that need special care?
Are you willing to do all the work that I require?

But what if you need to fire the housekeeper?

Be honest and firm but kind. If you’ve been supplying regular feedback on what they’ve done well or neglected, then you have a basis for terminating them if they fail to improve.

Stressed out about the whole process?

We, at Simplify, have fully qualified every one of our service professionals and we’ll match the perfect one for you. We take care of the time-consuming background checks and carefully verify licenses, insurance, and professional references. Additionally, Simplify is fully licensed and insured for your protection. You can forget those emotional confrontations. We’ll handle the hiring and firing. All you have to do is enjoy life in a sparkling clean home.

Simplify Your Laundry Routine

noreply@blogger.com (Caitlin Campbell) — Mon, 13 Jun 2011 15:50:00 +0000

Before you had kids did you ever dream how much time you’d have to take out of your life to do laundry? On these beautiful, bright sunny days, who wants to be stuck inside doing chores like laundry? While it’s not the most glamorous thing to do, it’s unavoidable and getting behind makes it even worse!

So how can you take the drudgery out of laundry to make it easier to handle?

Organize Your Laundry Room

Keep your detergent and stain remover on the shelf next to the machine. For a “greener” solution instead of softeners, white vinegar works and it also tames any unwanted odors or fragrances. Your clothing won’t smell like a pickle I promise.

Keep a small waste can nearby for emptying the lint trap after every load. The machine will work more efficiently that way, and you don’t have to worry about lint building up and causing a fire. Also, it’s handy for things that are left in the pockets.

Have hangers available so you can hang items directly from the dryer. First give you clothes a quick shake to loosen any wrinkles and then hang them.

Organize Before Washing

Time how long the washing machine and dryer takes to go through the cycle. Many machines have buzzers that remind you when the load is finished. But if you can’t hear it from the other side of the house, clip a timer to your pocket so it’ll remind you when to tend to the laundry. That way no forgotten, wet clothes sit and mold in the washing machine and you won’t have to iron out the wrinkles from those left in the dryer.

Teach your family to turn clothing right side out and empty pockets before things go in the laundry basket. Make the consequences of leaving things felt – you have the right to confiscate or throw those items away.

Keep a stain stick in each bedroom and treat stains as clothing is removed. Just remember to keep it safely out of reach in your small child’s room.

Don’t go crazy with your sorting. Sorting isn’t nearly as critical as it once was because of the quality of materials and cleaners available today. So you can probably limit it to three piles – darks, lights/whites, and towels – to cut down on that tedious task. Many have found Shout Color Catchers work well. You can economically use 1/3 of a sheet and still get good results.

Organize After Drying

Fold and hang clothes while still warm from the dryer. It not only feels good, but it cuts down on having to iron. If you don’t catch the dryer in time, just throw a damp lint-free towel in with the load and run it again for 10 to 15 minutes.

If you have a number of children to fold for, sorting will be easier if you color code a marking system for the clothing. Pick one color for each child. Then you can write names in the waistbands, dot colored permanent marker on the inside cuff of a sock, or put a knot of thread in an inconspicuous place. You’ll tell at a glance whose it is.

Wear clothing more than once. This might not work for your kids but everything adults wear, except for underwear and socks, can more than likely be worn a number of times. If you want to keep it separate from clean clothes in your drawers, have a space in your closet designated for these to be folded on until they’re worn enough to be dirty.

If you’re just sick of laundry, there’s one more solution to consider. Hire someone to take care if it for you. That will free up your time to spend it on yourself or your family! If you live in the Silicon Valley, contact Simplify to set up laundry service for your family today.

Bounce Back after Experiencing a Failure

noreply@blogger.com (Caitlin Campbell) — Mon, 06 Jun 2011 17:33:00 +0000

Whether it’s in your personal life or professional life, failure is inevitable. What happens to you after you experience failure? Do you pick yourself and move on or wallow in pain and disappointment? The latter is usually the easier route and the route well traveled. But to experience real success and happiness in life is to pick yourself up and learn from your failures. If you have started this unhealthy pattern of wallowing in your failures, don't worry, you can change!

Here are a few tips to help you move forward when you experience failures in your life:

Feel the emotions. Don't shy away from the feelings you experience when you fail. The key is to acknowledge yet not hold on to these emotions. After experiencing the emotion, ask yourself why you felt that way.

Learn from the experience. What turned your attempt into a failure? Were you ignoring certain signs that could have changed the outcome? Is there another direction you could have taken? Reflect on what could have been the causes and see if you can change your direction the next time. Be adaptable. Keeping a journal of your experiences can be beneficial. This way you can remember the choices you made, the directions you took, and how you felt about it.

Try again...and again....and again. Thomas Edison put it nicely when he said, "I have not failed. I just found 10,000 ways that don't work." Don't be afraid to keep trying. No one is perfect, so stop being a perfectionist.

Remember you are not the only one. Every person on earth has experience failure. In order to be successful, you must fail. Even some of the most famous and successful people have failed multiple times. Thomas Edison, Bill Gates, Oprah Winfrey, Abraham Lincoln, Vincent Van Gogh....all experienced major setbacks and failures in their careers.

Failure can lead you to success whether it helps you get to where you want to go or just helps you learn a lesson that could be of value in the future. So, don't be afraid of it, rather use it to your benefit.

Sometimes, failure can stem from simply not having enough time to pursue what you want. Simplify wants to assist busy professional families to be successful in whatever venture they choose. Contact Simplify for ideas on how to simplify your life to give you needed time to follow your dreams.

Can You Simplify Your Work Commute?

noreply@blogger.com (Caitlin Campbell) — Mon, 30 May 2011 15:30:00 +0000

According to the U.S. Census Bureau American Commuter Survey, Americans spend around 100 hours every year commuting to work. That’s a lot of time you’d probably rather be doing something else. And if you live in the Silicon Valley you are well aware of our notorious traffic jams!

Spending time commuting to work is also STRESSFUL! Traffic, road rage, high gas prices, bad weather....The list goes on and on. Have you ever considered trying to simplify your work commute? Sometimes the commute is inevitable but maybe you have just never considered making a few adjustments.

If you would like to SIMPLIFY your work commute, take these ideas into consideration:

Take public transportation. Consider taking public transportation to work instead of driving yourself, even a couple days a week. Instead of dealing with all the stress that comes with driving, you can use that time to get things done or to unwind before arriving home. Public transportation is cost effective and better for the environment. If your work is relatively close, many people enjoy riding a bike to work – it’s a great way to squeeze in some exercise into your busy day.

Work from home. Have you even investigated working from home? Check with your boss to see if this is an option even for one or two days a week. By working from home, you can eliminate commuting which will give you more time at home with your family. Yes, working from home can be a challenge. (Click here for tips to overcome distractions when working at home.)

Rearrange your schedule. It may not be the distance that is causing you stress, but the time in which you leave. Commuting during rush hour can tack on a lot more time to your commute. Consider rearranging your commute to avoid rush hour traffic. See if you can come into work earlier or after rush hour. Another option would be to see if you can work a little longer a few days a week and then eliminate one work day a week all together.

Choose a more economical vehicle. Gas prices are on the rise again. If you have to commute long distances, choose a vehicle that is economical. It will save you a lot of money in the long term.

The real key to simplifying your commute to work is to think outside the box. There are options out there, so be willing to investigate them.

If you are unable to change your commute circumstances, then how about simplifying your work load at home? Wouldn't it be nice to have dinner ready, a clean house, and no dirty laundry to come home to? Simplify can help you lessen your work load at home so you can come home, relax, and enjoy time with your family. If you live in the Silicon Valley and could benefit from a home concierge, contact Simplify to set up a complimentary in-home consultation.

Tips for a Fun Stress-Free Kids’ Party

noreply@blogger.com (Caitlin Campbell) — Mon, 23 May 2011 15:30:00 +0000

With summertime just around the corner, you may be thinking about planning a party for your kids. Kids’ parties can be a lot of fun, but at the same time, they can be stressful. In theory we know that simpler is usually better, but when it comes to planning parties for our kids, we sometimes feel we have to make a major production out of it.

Guess what? You can have a great party without the stress! How?

Why not have a simple, stay-at-home party that allows your kids’ creativity to shine?

Get started by picking a theme based on what your children enjoy. It could be a favorite sport, hobby, animal, TV or book character. Having a theme will help you decide how to decorate, what foods to prepare, and stay within your budget.

Invite guests a month in advance. Here’s a good rule of thumb to determine how many children to invite: take your child’s age and add one. So, if your child is two years old, invite three children. When you get too many it can be overwhelming to your children as well as the adults taking care of them.

Ask the parents to come with their children. They’ll enjoy seeing their little ones have fun. You’ll get a chance to get to know them better and you’ll have some adult help. Just make sure you include some adult-friendly snacks.

Plan entertainment that’s age appropriate. Start with a fun craft project so if any child is late the others don’t get tired of waiting. Music can set the tone for having wild fun or calming down. Games will get them wound up, so choose them wisely. Treasure hunts are a great way to keep them busy too.

Make food preparation easy and fun. Instead of a cake, try cupcakes that the kids can decorate themselves. Or you can ask them to bring their favorite fruits and then you can make smoothies according to their wishes. It’s easy to arrange a platter of veggies cut into fun shapes with a variety of dips. If you want to avoid a mess, supply boxes of juice or bottles of water instead of red punch for fuss-free drinks.

Recruit help. You can ask other parents to help with snacks or you can hire a caterer. Having an extra pair of hands to help with set-up and clean-up can make a big difference. The idea is to make sure that you enjoy yourself rather than fussing about all the details.

If you’re prepared and keep it simple and fun you and your child will have a great time! And make sure you get the help you need so on party day you can relax, take plenty of pictures and create some wonderful memories! If you would like help finding a caterer, photographer, or other party professionals in the Silicon Valley contact Simplify for more information.

How to Plan a Fun (and Safe) Family Road Trip

noreply@blogger.com (Caitlin Campbell) — Mon, 16 May 2011 15:30:00 +0000

Are you planning a family road trip this summer? Maybe to a National Park, theme park or family reunion… Road trips can be great fun, but it can take a little more forethought and planning when you have a family. By putting these helpful hints into action, your family road trip can be full of fun and excitement wherever your destination may be!

Plan your route as a family. Yes, spontaneity is the spice of life, but when you have children, it’s better to prepare in advance. Go online or pick up a road map and decide as a family which route to take. See if there are any sites along the way that might be fun to stop at. Research what you want to see especially if it’s a historical site. It’s also wise to plan for an alternate route just in case of road closures or bad weather. If the trip will take multiple days, look online to find hotels or camp sites that you can stay at overnight and book them in advance.

Provide entertainment. A road trip can really drag without any entertainment. If your children do not get car sick, bring along books, magazines, and coloring books. Audio books can be great fun, especially if your children are older. Get input from your children about what music they would like to listen to...maybe have each member create their own play list. Another source of entertainment can be games. Click here for list of 27 games to play on a road trip for free. Portable DVD players are another entertainment option and don't forget to bring along earphones. For one last entertainment tip, plan for entertainment at the pit stops. Children have a lot of energy and a pit stop is a great time to get some of that energy released. A football/soccer ball, baseball and gloves, or even a game of tag will only take a few minutes and leave everyone feeling refreshed.

Bring snacks!!!! Kids get cranky when they are hungry...I guess adults do too. Pack plenty of snacks for everyone. Sliced fruit, string cheese, granola bars, and trail mix are easy options. Avoid high sugar food and drinks. Most importantly, bring plenty of water! I would also suggest packing a picnic lunch. It will give everyone a chance to get out of the car as well as guarantee a good meal which can be hard to find when you are on the road.

Establish ground rules for behavior. Before leaving the driveway, establish what type of behavior you expect of your children and the consequences that will ensue if they are not followed.

Put together an emergency kit. Make sure you have a well stocked first aid kit. Have a spare tire, jumper cables, and a tool kit for minor car repairs. Also include a flashlight, matches, and blankets. This tip is pretty obvious, but make sure you car is in good working condition way in advance so you have time to make necessary repairs before leaving.

Make it comfortable. Have each child bring their own pillow and blanket. Dress in layers so if the weather changes you will be prepared for warmth or cold.

Have fun! This is my favorite tip. Use this time together as a family to connect. Put the cares of the world away and focus on each other. These are memories that will last you a lifetime.

If you would like assistance planning your family road trip or need someone to keep an eye on your home in the Silicon Valley while you’re away contact Simplify for more information.

How to Safely Store Food in Your Refrigerator (and Save Money)

noreply@blogger.com (Caitlin Campbell) — Mon, 09 May 2011 15:54:00 +0000

It’s one of the most used and well-loved appliances in your home – the refrigerator. But are you properly storing your food? By doing so, you’ll avoid throwing away food that spoiled before you could eat it (BTW - great money saver) and prevent food-borne illnesses. Simplify loves to make your life a little safer, healthier, and even save you some money.

We have some great tips to keep your food fresh and safe in your home refrigerator:

Keep it cold. Check your fridge's temperature. The recommended temp should be between 34-38 degrees Fahrenheit. This will prevent bacteria growth.

Separate fruits from veggies. Fruits and vegetables give off different gases so keep them separate. Putting them together can cause quicker deterioration. It’s best to store them in the crisper section of the fridge since it was designed for fruits and veggies. It is also wise to store fruits and veggies in bags that allow for circulation. An easy way to do this is to punch holes in the plastic bags that you package your food in at the grocery store.

Wrap raw meats. Raw meat can cause serious food illness if not handled properly. When storing raw meat in your fridge, keep it in its original wrapping from the store. If there is a possibility of leakage, place a tray or plate to catch any drips. Place raw meats on the lowest rack in the fridge so if it does drip, it won't contaminate the rest of the food in the fridge. If you will not be eating the meat within 2-3 days, it is best to freeze it to preserve its freshness.

Do not leave leftovers on the counter. Bacteria grows faster at room temperature than in colder temperatures. As soon as you are done with the food, place it in Tupperware and then in the fridge. Storing in smaller containers will allow for a quicker cool down. Throw away any leftover that have not been eaten after 3 days.

Clean your fridge regularly. A good rule of thumb would be to clean out your fridge every time you go to the grocery store. Throw away any spoiled items before you put in your new produce. Any time you see a spill, wipe it up immediately. Wash racks and drawers with warm soapy water.

If you would like more information about proper food storage, visit foodsafety.gov. If you’re interested in meal preparation or grocery shopping services in the Silicon Valley, Simplify would be happy to connect you will the right professional for your needs. We would love to give you one less thing to worry about!

5 Steps to Eliminate Paper Clutter from Your Home

noreply@blogger.com (Caitlin Campbell) — Mon, 25 Apr 2011 15:30:00 +0000

Paper clutter can have a mind of its own. It loves to pile up in inconvenient places and grows at a rapid rate. Can you relate to feeling like paper clutter is taking over your counter space? Don’t worry, you’re not alone!

Follow these five simple steps to be paper clutter FREE:

The first step is to identify where all the paper is coming from. What is in the stack? Is it junk mail, advertisements, magazines, bills, homework, receipts…? Knowing what is in the stack of papers will help you with the next step…

Identify why you are accumulating all that paper. Ask yourself: Is the clutter accumulating due to a lack of storage space? Do I not have the right kind of storage? Am I accumulating things that I could eliminate? Am I just being lazy? Am I afraid to throw things away?

Now it’s time to start sorting. Locate all the paper clutter and sift through each piece. Stack each piece into a new pile. Label the new piles: Keep, Throw Away, Recycle, and Shred. If you’re struggling to decide if it’s a "tosser" or a "keeper," identify what the purpose of the paper is and if you will use it or need it again. Don't hang on too tightly. That might be one of the reasons you’re in this paper clutter dilemma in the first place.

Next, invest in the right storage and equipment. Purchase a paper shredder for old bills, receipts, or other personal documents. Have a bin to store all the papers that can be recycled. For the "keepers" decide what type of storage system would work best for the type of papers you have. A filing cabinet or accordion is a great option for bills, documents, receipts, or coupons that you need to keep. And don't forget to label where these papers should go. That will save you a lot of trouble in the future if you are looking for a particular piece. If you really want to go the extra mile, file the papers according to the date. Homework and artwork from your children is a common paper clutter culprit. Read How to Create a System for Incoming School and Artwork for specific tips to handle this particular paper problem.

The last step is crucial when it comes to having a paper clutter free environment – regularly sort, throw away, and file. Most of the time, we don't do this until the paper clutter is out of control. Take a few minutes every day and sort through your paper. Then once a month, go through your filing system and throw away, recycle, or shred anything that may now be unnecessary. That will help eliminate cluttering your filing system.

We hope that these few suggestions will help you get a grip on your paper clutter. If you would like help from a professional organizer and live in the Silicon Valley contact Simplify. We have can help you find the right person for your needs.

How Bay Area Families Can Stay Fit and Healthy

noreply@blogger.com (Caitlin Campbell) — Mon, 18 Apr 2011 15:30:00 +0000

American families are struggling to be healthy. Childhood obesity statistics are skyrocketing and according to a new study, new parents are more likely to let their health slip. Life is busy and stressful. Because of this, many Bay Area families put their health on the back burner and the result can be dangerous. Even though the statistics say one thing, you can make the choice as a family to do the opposite. How? Make a healthy lifestyle a family affair! With the weather getting better and longer hours of sunlight, this is a perfect time to makeover your family habits.

To make it a little easier on you, here are a few suggestions to help your family get fit together:

Play outdoors. Being outdoors is conducive to being active. During the week, go for a family walk after dinner, ride bikes around the neighborhood, or play ball in the front yard. It is important to participate in these activities with your children. By doing so, you are setting a good example for them and showing them that healthy activities are important. It is so easy for parents to say, "Go outside and play." It will mean so much more if you go with them. On the weekend, plan a trip to the park, go for a hike, or take a swim at the local pool. Look for local family events that center around outdoor activities. Check out Bay Area Parent for a listing of all kinds of fun family outdoor activities.

Choose the right type of entertainment. Children love TV and video games and so do parents. They have become the "babysitter" when a parent is busy or stressed because it can occupy the children for a long period of time. Of course, TV and video games are not bad, but they can create a sedentary lifestyle. The good news is that there are now so many great entertainment options out there that are fun and promote movement and activity. Video games like Wii Fit, Dance Dance Revolution, and Playstation Move are all centered around exercise. You can also invest in exercise videos. As a parent, get involved and participate in these activities with your children. But remember even though these are great options, it is important to keep a limit on this type of entertainment and mix it in to other types of activities.

Center chores around physical activity. This idea is great because it kills two birds with one stone. Chores get done and it keeps you moving as a family. Work in the yard together or even plant a garden. If you have a dog, take it for a walk together or outside to play fetch. If you are doing indoor chores, put some fun music and dance while working.

Teach them the value of nutritious food. In addition to being physically active, eating healthy food is a major part in maintaining a healthy lifestyle. To help your children appreciate nutritious food, visit a farm or go to the local farmers market. Ask them for suggestions and allow them to pick out the fruits and veggies that they would like and then have them help you prepare them. For more suggestions, read How to Win the Veggie Battle. Also, make time to eat one meal together as a family every day. This gives you time to talk and connect as a family.

Make the choice to be healthy as a family. The benefits are well worth the time and energy it may take to get into a new routine. Contact Simplify if you would like help with meal planning and preparation. We have some wonderful healthy ideas for your family!

Unusual Gift Ideas for the Working Mom

noreply@blogger.com (Caitlin Campbell) — Mon, 11 Apr 2011 22:27:00 +0000

Giving gifts can be just as fun as receiving them. The hard part of giving gifts is knowing what to give to important moms in our lives. Many times we fall back on the classics...flowers or a box of chocolates. Maybe that is because we cannot think of what else to give.

Well, think no more! Whether you are looking to give a gift to another mom, give a hint to your husband, or even get something for yourself, here are some great gift suggestions for the working mom. The key is to find something that will give her more time, energy, and refreshment.

A day at the spa. Who doesn't want a spa day? Time to relax and rejuvenate is what every working mom needs. It allows them completely focus on themselves. Consider purchasing gift card to a local spa or even setting up a monthly massage appointment. Select a treatment that they will enjoy.

Take over a weekly household chore. I love this gift idea especially for husbands. Select one household chore and take care of it for them. For example, dish duty one night a week, cooking one meal a week, or getting the kids ready for school one morning. It may not seem like a lot, but to a working mom, having one item removed from her plate will be a breath of fresh air.

Center the gift around her hobby. What does your working mom love to do? Exercise, read, cook, take bubble baths, watch romantic comedies...Choose a gift that will allow her to indulge in whatever hobby she has. Sometimes it is hard to spend money or time on those little fun things for yourself, but when someone else gifts it to you, it can make it a whole lot easier.

Purchase Simplify services. Simplify was designed specifically for the working mom. Grocery shopping, meal preparation, laundry service, housecleaning...you need it, we got it! By taking care of these household responsibilities once a week or even once a month can give a hardworking mom a few valuable moments to spend however they would like. Simplify is the perfect gift for any mom, any time of the year!

Don't delay in spoiling your favorite working mom! For even more great gift ideas contact Simplify.

How to Arrange for Childcare Before Maternity Leave Even Starts

noreply@blogger.com (Caitlin Campbell) — Mon, 04 Apr 2011 15:30:00 +0000

Nothing changes your life like having a baby. There are all the changes to your body and way of thinking, all the work to prepare for the delivery, all the adjustments you weren’t prepared for getting used to the baby’s needs. And if that’s not enough, learning how to leave your precious little one in someone else’s care so you can return to work.

Some parts of preparing for your return to work should start long before you deliver your baby, especially when it comes to lining up the childcare provider. Finding proper childcare will be a huge weight off your shoulders. This is usually the biggest area of stress for a new mother. Here are some tips on how to do it:

Decide on the best type of childcare for your situation.

Decide what type of childcare situation you are interested in. Will family be taking care of the baby? Are you interested in hiring a nanny/babysitter? Is daycare the best option? Be specific about what you are looking for and don't settle! Click here for some suggestions to keep in mind when you are looking for a babysitter/nanny.

Thoroughly research your childcare.

Many childcare centers have long waiting lists – up to a year! This is definitely something you don’t want to attend to at the last minute. After doing all of your research and choosing which center you want, don’t just leave it at that. Make periodic visits to the facility while you’re on maternity leave so that they recognize you as an involved parent. This gives you a good chance to make sure this center is the right fit for your family. Also make sure you have backup childcare ready in case something happens to your primary childcare provider. Oftentimes, relatives will be glad to fill in for a day.

Schedule some trial runs for childcare.

Before you begin working again, practice being away from your baby. Leave your child at the childcare facility for an afternoon so everyone can get used to the new arrangement. You won’t have the angst of leaving your baby for the first time piled on top of your anxiety about starting work again.

Accept your range of feelings.

You are going to have a range of emotions when you start preparing to back to work. Most moms experience some guilt. It’s important to remember that you are not a terrible mother because you have to go back to work. The purpose of working is so you can provide the best for your family and that includes your newborn.

Newborn babies are precious and they grow up quickly. You may have to work, but maybe you can spend more time with your baby by enlisting the help of Simplify. As moms ourselves, it’s important to us that you get to enjoy as many special moments as possible so contact us for a free consultation. And look for more tips in an upcoming blog that will help you deal with a heavier workload – especially those first few weeks back to work.

Nurture Creativity in Your Children

noreply@blogger.com (Caitlin Campbell) — Mon, 28 Mar 2011 19:50:00 +0000

Many parents are concerned that creativity skills are at risk among kids today because of too much time in front of the screen, television or games, and too much emphasis on learning by rote and standardized testing. Is creativity really that important?

All children start with the ability to be creative. But if it’s not used and encouraged, research shows that by age 10 many have lost up to 70% of their creative skills. This won’t just affect their ability to enjoy play, but as adults their ability to be creative thinkers and problem solvers will be hampered. Those of us who live in the Silicon Valley know how important innovating thinking is in the current and future job market.

How can parents nurture creativity? Here are some of our favorite “creative” suggestions:

Don’t place needless limits, rules, and restrictions on your children when they’re playing or trying to solve a problem. Have you ever noticed when you give a child a toy, they often spend more time playing with the box? That’s because the toy has a limited number of uses, the box however has limitless possibilities for a child with an imagination. This requires a conscious effort on the part of the parent and a great deal of patience, especially if you have a tendency to micromanage everything.

Remember that it’s not about getting the right answer but learning a skill. The sense of satisfaction in conquering a problem motivates the creative process, not the finished product. The experimentation nurtures the creativity. As a parent then, don’t emphasize the end results or try to influence them to do it in a prescribed way. Encourage the process of learning.

Let them make mistakes. We all learn the most from our mistakes and striving for perfection is one of the greatest hindrances to anyone getting anything done in life. So as parents we don’t want to impose that on our kids.

Don’t stifle their natural tendencies toward humor, silliness, daydreaming, or curiosity. Let them be children, not expecting them to be little adults. All of these are important to the creative process.

Respect your child’s right to be who they are. Rather than taking everything as a reflection of your parenting skills, take pride in who your children are. Of course, if you see something that needs correction in order for your children to get a long with others or be a good person, then you’ll have to give the direction needed. Otherwise, give commendation a lot more than criticism.

Speak positively about being creative. Expressions such as - “It’s fun trying something new”, “There’s more than one way to do things”, “Here are the art materials you can use, let’s see what you can do with them” – let your children know you give them the freedom to do it their way and that you’re confident they’ll come up with something wonderful.

Encourage story telling and make believe. Try creating your own new words to popular songs or poems. Children especially love to personalize them

Take your children to museums that encourage creativity like The Bay Area Discovery Museum. It’s dedicated to developing creativity in all children and it’s a fun place to be for the whole family. Click here, for more fun suggestion for spring break activities in the Silicon Valley.

Give a “Creativity Party” for your children and their friends. Supply a container with ordinary items that are safe for the age of the children – crayons, paints, a selection of paper, glitter, fabric, buttons, yarn, cardboard tubes from the rolls of paper towels, empty squeeze bottles from catsup, wooden spoons, paper clips, cardboard, wheels off of broken toys, different sizes of pieces of wood, plastic pop bottles – and let them choose 5 items to make something. (Put plastic tarps over tables for easy cleanup.) After they’re done creating their masterpieces, have each one stand up and tell about what they’ve done. Make sure everyone claps and praises each child enthusiastically.

Parenting is a huge job and you only get one chance to get it right. If you’ve been encouraging the creative spark in your children, you’ll be rewarded with a happier and a smarter kid. If you would like to free up some time, contact Simplify. By allowing our home concierge services to help you care for some of your needs, you can spend time with the people that are most important in your life.

Crazy Busy? You Still Need to Make Time for Your Friends

noreply@blogger.com (Caitlin Campbell) — Mon, 21 Mar 2011 15:21:00 +0000

No matter who you are, we all need friends. When you’re a working mom, it can be especially difficult to find time to spend with your friends, but it’s necessary to do so. Research has shown that having quality friends can actually impact your health for the good. Good friends can help you build up your self-esteem, cope with stress, and even help motivate you to take better care of yourself.

But, how can you make time for your friends? Here are a few suggestions we love:

Focus on quality. We all wish we could give our friends ample time in our lives, but that’s not always possible. So, when it comes to friends, you may not be able to dedicate a lot of time, but you can make sure the time you spend is quality. When you do get to spend time with your friend or friends, be engaged. Avoid making them feel like you "have" to be there, but that you "want" to be there.

Integrate your lives. What do you have in common with your friends? If you both enjoy the same thing, try working out a schedule to do it together. For example, do you both like to exercise? Instead of doing it alone, do it together. If you have kids around the same age, try setting up a weekly play date for the kids which will allow the two of you to have time together as well. Maybe you both have errands to run...can you do them together? Look for the opportunities to merge your schedules and get creative with your friend time.

Plan in advance. If you really want to have some good fun girl time, plan it in advance. Try setting up a standing "friend appointment" to go to lunch, go shopping, have a spa day, or even plan a yearly getaway. Put it on the calendar! That way you make sure you get that time in. If you for some reason are having a hard time setting up these type of "friend appointments" maybe set up a regular time to catch up on the phone. A great time to make phone calls could be on your lunch break. If a window of time does become available at the last minute, be spontaneous!

Don't forget the little things. An email, a text message, a hand written card are all little things that you can do to make your friend feel special. It doesn't have to be much. Friends just love to know that you think of them.

Let us know if you have any tips for squeezing in some time with your girlfriends. And if you would like to free up some of your time, contact Simplify. By allowing our home concierge services to help you care for some of your needs, you can spend time with the people that are most important in your life.

Get Ready for Spring in California

noreply@blogger.com (Caitlin Campbell) — Mon, 14 Mar 2011 15:14:00 +0000

The first official day of spring for 2011 is March 20th. That’s just around the corner! I love this time of year...warmer weather, longer days, beautiful flowers. It's an excellent time of year to tackle life with renewed energy and enthusiasm.

We want to share with you a few ideas to get you prepared and excited for the upcoming spring season:

Spruce up the yard. The yard usually gets neglected during the winter season. With spring being such a beautiful time of year, you want your yard to reflect that. Clear up any trash or debris that has collected. Hose down you porch or patio area. Prune back plants and bushes. If yard work is not your expertise, consider hiring a landscaper.

Make your house sparkle. Spring is the typical time that we decide to tackle the big indoor cleaning projects. I recommend making a list of the indoor cleaning projects you would like to get done this spring and then make a schedule. For a comprehensive list of spring cleaning tips, click here.

Change up your exercise routine. If you are going to spruce up your house and your yard, maybe you should consider doing the same for yourself and your workout routine. Consider trying a new class at the gym, sign up for a half marathon, or take your workout outside. Whatever you decide to do…try to challenge yourself and keep it fresh.

Buy seasonal fruits and vegetables. Food always tastes better when it’s in season. Living in California, we have a wide variety of amazing produce. Asparagus, grapefruit, kiwi, oranges, peas, radishes, and strawberries are just a few of the wonderful spring produce we have available. To get your family on board, plan a trip to a local farm.

From us at Simplify, we hope you have a wonderful spring! For any of your spring time projects, Simplify has a team of top professionals for your needs. Please contact us for more information.

Simplify and Other Tips to Make Moving Day Easier

noreply@blogger.com (Caitlin Campbell) — Mon, 07 Mar 2011 16:30:00 +0000

I don't think anyone loves moving day. You may love being settled in your new home, but the process of packing and unpacking can be very stressful. The good news is that it doesn't have to be stressful. Making a move can be quite smooth as long as you simplify and get organized!

Here are a few of our favorite tips to help make your moving process a little easier...

When packing:

Pack up one room at a time. When you do this all items for that particular room (kitchen, bathroom etc) stay together. Don't mix and match different rooms or you will waste time trying to figure out where the different items go.

Label thoroughly. In big, bold letters, label each box. Write the room that the box should go in when it arrives at the new location and include what is inside the box (for example - "Kitchen - Silverware & Dish Towels"). If your box includes an item that is breakable, write "Fragile" on it.

Keep only what you want. If you come across things in your old house that you don’t use or want anymore, DO NOT pack them. Have an area designated for trash or things you would like to give away or donate. Keeping things that you don't want will take up space in your new home and also eat up your time because you’ll be trying to figure out what to do with them.

When unpacking:

Don't rush. Moving is a big deal. Plan ahead in your schedule to allow for adequate time for your move. If you need to take off some time, then do it. It will be well worth it. The sooner you get it done, the sooner you can relax and enjoy your new home.

Set up a game plan. Before you arrive at your new destination, decide how you want to work through the unpacking process. Be methodical. Place all boxes in the appropriate rooms before you start unpacking. Then go through one room at a time. The kitchen is usually the best place to start. Then work your way to the bathrooms, bedrooms, and then living areas. If you have children, get them involved. They can be great helpers!

Focus on the essential living areas first. Don't worry about areas such as the deck, garage, or shed. Those are areas that you can take time to organize later. Get the most important areas done first. By focusing on the essentials, you will avoid getting bogged down.

Have the proper tools. Set aside tools that you will need to help you doing the unpacking process. Scissors, X-acto knife, screwdriver, and hammer are good to have available.

By keeping these tips in mind, hopefully your moving day will be a pleasant experience. If you live in the Silicon Valley area and are interested in having professional help to get you packed and/or unpacked during your move, we would love to help you. Please contact Simplify for more information.

What You Need to Know Before You Hire a Landscaper

noreply@blogger.com (Caitlin Campbell) — Mon, 28 Feb 2011 16:00:00 +0000

What You Need to Know Before You Hire a Landscaper

We would all love to have a beautiful yard, but the truth is it’s hard to find the time to make it happen. So, what can you do if you want that gorgeous yard without spending any time on it? Hire a landscaper! The beauty of hiring a landscaper is that they can get your yard in good shape and they can help you maintain it.

Now you are left with the task of finding someone to do the job. Due diligence is required to make the right choice because whenever people work at your home you want someone you can trust.

Here are five tips to follow when hiring a landscaper:

Define your needs. Before you start interviewing anyone, take some time and think about what you want done to your yard. Decide what you want done regularly (lawn mowing), semi-regularly (weeding, pruning), and seasonally (fertilizing, lawn aerating). The more specific you are about your needs, the more clearly you’ll be able to identify what type of landscaper you want and you’ll be better equipped to communicate your needs to whomever you hire.
Be specific during the interview process. Make a list of all the important things you want to cover during the interview. Be sure to include: price, availability, and cancellation policy. Ask for 3-5 client references for you to follow up on. Find out what guarantee they provide if you’re not satisfied with the service.
Inform yourself on any legal and tax regulations that may apply to your situation, so you know who’s responsible for taxes, social security and worker’s compensation.
Ask about insurance. Make sure that whoever you hire is covered by insurance. Don’t forget that this is a protection for you just in case someone gets hurts while working on your property.
Get it all in writing. Outline all the costs and services before you begin the service relationship. That way if there is a misunderstanding you have something to refer back to.

If you would like assistance in finding a landscaper, Simplify would be happy to help. If you live in these areas: the Bay Area Peninsula and South Bay, including Palo Alto, Los Altos, Menlo Park, Atherton, Los Gatos, Saratoga, Cupertino, and San Jose we have carefully-screened landscapers ready to work for you! Our home and lifestyle management firm gives priority to your privacy, safety, and security. We are also fully licensed and insured for your protection. Please contact us for more information.