This giveaway is now closed. Check back soon for the winner!
Since I’m all about simple living, I’m also all about getting the most out of the things I use in my daily life. To me, living simply isn’t about needlessly suffering without life’s necessities, or as I mentioned earlier, winning some backwards contest over who can get away with the least amount of stuff.
But it does mean being very intentional about what things you allow in your home, and being deliberate about how you spend your time. Living simply asks you to evaluate your choices and make sure they’re congruent with your family’s priorities.
So when I find things in my life that allow me to do more with less, I use them with gusto. I value quality over quantity, which means I’d prefer 10 well-made tools in my arsenal that allow me to manage my home well rather than 100 cheap things that serve only one purpose.
Here are my favorite tools that serve me well, do more than one thing, and are worth their cost. Some are high-tech; others, not so much.
1. Laptop
This first tool might be obvious, but it does so much for me. This workhorse serves as my main portal to the Internet for work, but we also Skype with the grandparents, download and Photoshop family photos, keep records of our family budget, store documents for a bajillion different things, watch TV shows on Hulu and movies on Netflix, and countless other tasks.
On one of our recent semi-monthly dates, Kyle and I plugged in my laptop to our minivan speakers (that’s how we roll as parents, g), went to a city park that had free wifi, and created our own little drive-in theater. Beats spending $20 at the movie theater, in my book.
2. Toaster oven
I hesitated buying a toaster oven when we first moved back to the States because they take up precious kitchen counter space. I’m really glad we have one now, though. They’re great for reheating leftovers (and makes them taste so much better than the microwave does), and besides toasting the obvious, you can also make individual pizzas and quesadillas. We’ve even done hamburgers. This is great for those of us in warmer climates, when heating the full-size oven causes near-heat stroke.
3. Buckets and baskets
We prefer having open-ended toys in our house, and these tend to have loose parts. By “open-ended,” I mean toys that allow the kid to play, instead of entertaining the kid because it plays on its own. We’re not hyper-vigilant about no batteries, but honestly, what’s fun about watching Elmo dance around? Instead, we invest in blocks, cars, wooden train tracks, play food, Tinker toys, dress-up clothes, and dolls.
These all require storage solutions, and buckets fit the bill for us. We got these Trofast buckets for $4 apiece at Ikea, and they also fit beautifully into their Expedit shelving system. Baskets are great, too — thrift stores are a great place to score sweet deals on them.
Baskets and buckets are also perfect for magazines, stuffed animals, art supplies, and keeping a small stash of separate toys in the living room.
4. Printer
Our printer does much more than print. We have the Epson Artisan All-in-One, which not only prints in both color and black and white, but it also scans, photocopies, and faxes (though we don’t use this feature). Plus, it prints photos with a higher quality than our local photo printer, can make lined and graph paper, and can turn any picture into a coloring page. Great for kiddos.
Invest in a quality printer that can handle multiple jobs, and it’ll save you trips out of the house when you need to scan or fax; plus having one machine will save you valuable counter space.
5. Dressers
Photo by Nester
I’m inspired by Nester‘s passion for dressers, because as she says, these versatile furniture pieces can hold so much more than clothing. They work beautifully as dining room buffets to hold plates or linens if you’re short on kitchen storage, or if you don’t have storage for towels and toiletries, they can work in the bathroom, too. We currently have a dresser in the living room that serves as our arts & crafts station — it holds drawing and paint supplies, scrap paper, glue, scissors, and the like.
6. Great-fitting jeans
On Facebook last week, I asked those of you who follow Simple Mom to name your favorite brand of jeans. The most mentioned brands were Gap and Levis. These brands aren’t the cheapest, but they’re popular because they fit well.
A great-fitting pair of jeans will carry you from home with the kids and folding laundry to your evening date with the hubby — just change out of your t-shirt and into something eye-catching. Invest in the pair that fit you best, and take good care of them so that they’ll last years.
7. Google Calendar
You can create unlimited calendars within Google Calendar, and I use my account all throughout the day. I have one calendar for our family events, another for our menu plan, and Simple Living Media keeps track of its editorial calendar with a separate calendar for each blog channel (which each writer can see in their own account). Our local church uses Google Calendar, too, so I’ve imported this into my own account as well — this way, we can easily see when it’s our turn to serve in the nursery. And last year, I also had a separate one for our homeschool syllabus.
8. Baking soda and vinegar
I have a box of baking soda in my kitchen pantry, one under the sink, another in the laundry room, and yet another upstairs in the master bath. This is because I use it for cooking, cleaning the house (some of my recipes are in my new book), and cleaning my hair. Baking soda is a gift from God.
Likewise, I have a giant bottle of all-purpose vinegar in the laundry room and smaller bottles in the same places mentioned above. I also use vinegar to cook, clean the house, and clean my hair. This product, too, is a miracle.
9. Smartphone
A smartphone is much more than a phone. It’s a tool for staying connected on the Internet, for taking and storing photos, for listening to music, for watching movies on the go, for serving as your GPS, and a bajillion other things (some that increase productivity; others, not so much).
What’s that, you say — you don’t have a smartphone yet? Well, how about you win one, then?
Giveaway time!
Microsoft wants to give one Simple Mom reader one of their brand new Windows Phone 7 smartphones! These things really are hot off of the press… They were just released this month in the U.S.
Be one of the first to get your hands on one of these phones, and let this tool help you do more with less. It’s valued at about $500. So fun!
How to Enter
To enter, simply leave a comment on this post! Easy peasy. You can leave a comment every day from now until the 29th, so long as it’s useful, not spammy, and is about doing more with less.
This giveaway is open until Novemeber 29. After that, I’ll randomly draw the winner’s name and will be in touch with them about details. Head here to read the nitty-gritty official rules of the contest.
So, to get you started on entering the contest, here’s today’s post question: What’s your favorite tool in your life that helps you do more with less?
This giveaway is brought to you by the new Windows Phone 7. Less MIA. More PTA: Learn more about Windows Phone online and see it in person at local T-Mobile stores today.
About Tsh
My favorite tool has to be my current smart phone but unfortunately it isn’t working the way it was promised. I’d LOVE to have the Windows 7 phone to be even more productive with less time.
PS I love SLM!
Definitely my computer.
Couldn’t live without it.
I would love a mobile version.
Thanks for the great giveway.
I love using dressers all over the house too! Easy to make sure there’s a place for everything.
Sandra´s latest post: Kindergarten Week 9
I would really like to win any of these gadgets ,but the smart phone would be really nice.
other than my computer, I’d have to say my tool for doing more with less is our Public Library…we visit the library several times a week to check out all sorts of books, from wonderful fiction to cookbooks to self-help to do-it-yourself. We are empowered with knowledge without spending a dime. That’s not to say that your book wouldn’t be a welcome addition to our home library! :}
I was thinking of that one, too. I use the library for all sorts of things… Good call.
My favorite tool is my Mac laptop. And along with that, I LOVE my google calendar. It keeps track of my daily schedule. I’m lost without it!
Sorry.I didn’t read this one carefully.I find I use my computer for everything from research,keeping in touch, encouraging and informative blogs to watching movies.We also use it for school lessons.
I love my laptop, and my toaster oven!
I have never had an iphone or anything like it, so it would be very cool to see how organized I could be with that!
)
I completely agree on baking soda and vinegar, and would add olive oil to round out a perfect trio. I cook with it every day, but also use it as a facial cleanser (mixed with castor oil) and moisturizer.
I have a round ottoman that will open for storage that I use in our family room as a “table” in front the sofa (picture what we used to call coffee tables) and the storage areas stays empty. It has a specific use – when the doorbell rings announcing unexpected visitors, I gather up whatever we’ve had out in the room that doesn’t belong there and put it in the storage section so the room doesn’t look messy. I have two rules with regard to the ottoman: (1) It stays empty until it is needed for the above and (2) it *has* to be emptied and things put back to their proper places just as soon as the visitors leave!
Okay, this sounds weird, but my current favorite “tool” are the dish towels in my kitchen. I have recently given up paper towels and this random assortment of linens have been cleaning up all sorts of messes all over my house. I never thought I could do it, but I just kept “forgetting” to buy paper towels at the store, which essentially forced the whole family to find other ways to clean up spilled juice on the counter, finger painted hands and a myriad of other messes. We have a separate pile for cleaning the bathroom and other “yucky” things. I am working on color coding the rags for different areas of the house, but for now we are using what we’ve got and it’s working great.
Hands down? my apple iphone. It does everything but cook dinner.
hmmm…I have a tie going between my ipod touch, our laptop, and my crockpot! I use all three soooo much-every day, throughout the day.
My earplugs help me sleep when my husband is on night duty
my food processor and laptop
I love my google calendar. I have one calendar for each family member and then I can easily turn calendars on and off in my view depending on what i’m trying to figure out (if I just want to know when the baby’s next check-up is, I can just look at her calendar and it is much faster).
I’ve been looking for a new solution for storing stuff (dvds, books, video games, etc) in the livingroom. I was looking at TV stands even though the TV wouldn’t actually be on them, but I think I’ll check out dressers as well. Thanks for the idea!
LOOOOOVE my laptop, work, play…it does it all! Now to get all of the old computers into one laptop, daunting!
Would love to win this. I’ve been thinking I should get one, so many obviously GENIUS apps that could save me time, money, possibly my sanity?! Thanks!
My favorite item is my old fashioned spiral top notebook and pen that stays in my purse. I use it to make lists, pen letters for work and friends and play tic-tac-toe with my little ones while waiting on things like an oil change.
No laptop here, no google calendar, no blackberry. A simple calendar page hanging up in the kitchen helps us keep it all together. We haven’t missed any appointments yet!
Thanks for a chance at a great giveaway!
Karen@CandidDiversions´s latest post: Weekend Reads
I’m all about these time and space saving tips. I love the dresser idea (but my small house is short on space for those).
Thanks for the give-away!
Tonya´s latest post: When she grows up
well, it’s definitely my laptop. I am bedridden much of time due to life threatening illness. My laptop is like having a 2nd right arm! I can use it for communicating via email, chat, skype, social media(twitter!), and so much more. It keeps me in touch with my friends and family around the world, without needing stamps, high long distance fees, and airline tickets. Without having to go to the library, I can research on anything, without leaving my bed… for myself or others that call and ask me to help the in some research. It is truly one of the greatest tools of modern age…along with the cell phone!
cathy b
pbprojecthope at yahoo dot com
http://insearchofthebest.blogspot.com
@projecthope7 twitter
Cathy B´s latest post: Protect Your Active Kids from MRSAEQUIP THEM WELL PROGRAM
I have to agree – my laptop saves us so much time – I’m constantly looking something up to solve any problem that arises, or finding us something fun to do on a rainy day!
I saw someone mention their husband. Great answer! Mine is fabulous and we help each other a lot. Just a couple days ago he said to me, “I’m glad you’re so smart. It’s helps my life a lot!” Funny guy.
I just can’t quite get my head around the toaster oven concept. We’ve debated one for years, never actually caving in for the purchase…Maybe….
I know, I’m with you. We finally decided to just get one off Amazon for $25. We figured we’d try it out for a few days and see if it was worth the money; if not, we’d sell it on Craigslist for $10 or something. But honestly, six months later, I use it near daily. Who woulda thought…
My favorite tool? In this season of my life…it’s got to be my video baby monitor. I never had the desire for one with my first child, but after receiving one as a gift for our second baby, I can’t believe how many trips it’s saved me from running up the stairs to check on my little girl. It gives me more time to focus on my 2 1/2 year old downstairs or outside!
I am in the same situation! I love my video monitor! I can make sure my daughter’s leg isn’t stuck in the slats just by looking in the monitor instead of creeping in & waking her up! Plus, if I go in the room, my 2 1/2 year old wants to go too & we all know they are not quiet!
Yes! Between my older one trying to “help” me but not understanding how to be quiet, and the old creaky hardwood floors in our house, it’s best for everyone to not go into the baby’s room! : )
I use my cell phone for reminders about my daughter’s activities such as gymnastics, piano, early-out day from school and play dates. I’d LOVE a smartphone for keeping track of all of this stuff.
Love my old school calendar/planner, but I will have to give the google calendar a go. So enjoy all the tips/ideas in your blog!
My well stocked pantry is my best tool, I always keep enough things on hand so I can make any meal or dessert my family wants without making a run to the store. I would really love to make this smartphone my most used tool though!!
I 100% agree with the laptop being my most essential tool. I don’t know what i would do without it.
This is an amazing giveaway. I would give this phone to my sister, who has been trying to find a new phone for months but she isn’t eligible for an upgrade from her carrier yet.
Christine´s latest post: Shrimp Tempura Sandwich Banh Mi-Po Boy from World Sub
I don’t have a smart phone, mostly b/c I’m leary of the jump in monthly fees. But if I win, I’d glady give it the ol’ college try! Love your site; it’s a sanity refresher for me.
My little notebook and pen keep me organized. Simple, but true!
I love having my blackberry! I can multi-task while waiting to pick up my kids, email, text and search for things!!
Great post
I rt’d this amazing opportunity to receive the new Smartphone!!
@ShopperGal1 Shopper Gal
Do More With Less with 9 Essential Tools (& then win one!) — Simple Mom http://bit.ly/9dlB4z
I like the idea of the “drive-in” movie in your car! I never even thought of doing something like that, but it would be a great cheap date. Our computer is slowly dying, and we’re getting ourselves a new one for Christmas. We were debating laptop v. desktop…but that idea might’ve just tipped the scales in the laptop direction!
Glad to have helped you out! We honestly have only done it twice, but it really is so much fun. You’re still getting out of the house, but it’s cheap.
I too love my toaster oven. I dont have a microwave and I use it for everything!
I would include an electric kettle in this list. We use it to boil water for tea and coffee at all times of the day. If we start the water and get to doing something else, it shuts itself off and waits with piping hot water. It’s also much faster than boiling water on the stove.
Frances´s latest post: A smarter cell phone without the upgrade
My cast iron pans. We used them for our everyday cooking, but they are also great to flatten things (like tortillas
) and bake in. And they are so easy to clean once you get them seasoned!
We don’t use dressers that much but we do have an old wardrobe that works just as beautifully. One side I use the drawers to organize the majority of our crafting and art supplies the other side contains board games. It’s handy having it in the dining room also so we can dig it out and put it up with ease.
I have to add I love that you mentioned a toaster oven! We actually went microwave free a few years ago and I haven’t missed it a bit. The toaster oven does such a better job, sure you might have to wait 5 minutes more but the taste is worth it!
What a fun giveaway! I agree with your comment about dressers. When living in a small college town, we picked up two free dressers when one of the dorms was getting new furniture. Those things are workhorses. And we can always sand, paint, resand, paint again… So much fun!
Corrie´s latest post: more on Story
The computer/internet keeps my life organized! Keeps me in touch with family, finds me the best prices on future purchases, find me cool crafts to do with the kids, provides me with a calendar (a BIG life saver!)… just TOO many to mention! Now if I could get it to do my housework
I loved your list and must shout out that good fitting jeans can make your entire day! Kitchen shears… I think I could empty my entire utensil drawer and stick with my kitchen shears, a paring knife and a good spatula and I’d be set! Very cool.
Definitely my laptop. It helps me the most with my meal planning each week. I find most of my menu online. I would be in trouble without it!
Google – I keep everything there.
I still use a 5 year old flip-phone, so I could use an upgrade. I just can’t part with something that works fine.
I would say my iPad, it is small and easy for me to carry around the house. There are some amazing apps on it, but it also has most functions that a typical computer performs. It’s also amazingly simple for my toddler to use when she wants to play a game.
Hi Tsh,
Thanks for the helpful tips! I read your blog and feel slightly odd since I don’t have children. But I am getting married in January and have made a commitment since 2006 to live more simply, starting with spending a year in Malawi Africa, which I immensely enjoyed.
The most universal and well loved tool for me isn’t exactly a tool but a scarf. I wear scarves nearly every single day and keep a stack of winter scarves and summer scarves handy during the appropriate season. With my tendency to be cold, they keep me prepared as layering is an effective temperature control. They also allow me to accessorize with color so that I can jazz up my Old Navy t-shirts or solid colored turtleneck sweaters that I wear all winter long.
And even though this may be TMI, I have had to use one as a handkerchief on occasion because I have terrible allergies and am not always prepared with kleenex. But that’s only in emergencies!
Scarves are a great one! I hadn’t thought of that.
And you’re in good company… There are plenty of readers here sans children.
My library card! I LOVE books and seem to collect them. Now that I’m homeschool mom, the expense and just the overwhelming amount of books in our home doesn’t make for simple living! I realized that I could go online to the library catalog and pick them up in a couple of days! Way easier…when we are done reading, I don’t have to find a home for the book!
I agree about baking soda and vinegar! I have saved a ton on cleaning products, not to mention reducing the toxic substances that my family is exposed to, by making my own all-purpose cleaner. A few drops of lemon essential oil and voila! It works just as well as anything I was using before!
With the birth of my daughter, one of the things that has helped me stay home is cloth diapering. We have been able to financially save money and feel greener about our footprint. When my daughter is out of the diaper stage, these diapers will become wash cloths, dust rags, etc. So, doing more with less to me means, less impact on the wallet and the earth through utilizing cloth.
Thanks to everyone, about the Daily Docket! I’m so glad you like it.
And YES to the kitchen shears. I hadn’t even thought of that, but you’re right, I use those daily for all sorts of things.
My essential kitchen tool is my Kitchen-Aid. It does so much in the kitchen that I do not think that I would attempt to bake without it.
I’m with you on the toaster oven! During the dog days of summer, I do anything to avoid turning on my big oven.
My favorite KISS tool is my label maker…I just can’t live without it
It makes everything so much easy to find when you label it and then you can clearly see it and find things when you need them. My oldest son is 31 and when he was a child I labeled his dresser drawers and shelves in his room so that he would be self sufficient. I’ve always used modular mates and labeled them in my pantry and my boys have continued this practice in their own homes. Labels…are the bomb 
Roberta´s latest post: The 21 Purge- Day 8Choosing Wisely
My favorite tool is a pen and paper, I make lists of what I need to purchase/plan/do.
I’ve been married almost 40 years and find this still works best for me. I love the internet and my cell (dumb, not a smart one) phone.
Maybe a new smart phone will get me into the 21st century.
Because of my Blackberry, I feel so much more productive with what use to be wasted minutes of my day- waiting for the school bus, sitting in the doctors office, etc. Not only am I able to stay in contact with family and friends via email, text and facebook, but it is wonderful to be able to answer the amazing questions of my two children with immediate internet access!! If they ask me a question I don’t know the answer to- they say, “Ask your phone!”
My Favorite tool is e-mail. I am a busy mom of 2 small boys and just don’t have time to always call and chat with friends and family like I want to. E-mail lets me stay in touch, forward family photos,send invitations, and handle any business task at a moments notice. It is always there for you, available everywhere and it is free! The internet is definitely the tool that helps me do more with less and would be great to use on the new Windows 7 phone ! Is it ok to beg? Pick me, Pick me !
My most useful tools would probably be my laptop and my ipod touch. They keep me a little more organized than I have been in the past. My laptop is used to keep up with family and friends, as Im not one to talk on the phone, it also helps me budget and balance our bank accounts. My ipod can do the things above as well, but I really enjoy having the calendar and Notepad. The Calender alerts me for Doctors appts and such while the Notepad can keep my “lists” (birthday party planning, grocery shopping, Christmas lists, etc.) Honestly, I dont even want to think about how disorganized my life was before…..
My fav? Probably baby wipes right now…
My favorite tool is my sewing machine. Basic as it may be, I can take a thrift store shirt and make multiple gifts and toys. And no more paying for simple hemming. I could live without it, but it has saved me oodles on decorations, kids clothes and bags/purses!
I totally agree on the toaster oven. When I moved into my house last year it was apparent that there was only room for the microwave or the toaster oven. And it was an easy decision — since I use the toaster oven all the time and barely used the microwave anyway. Yeah, things take longer, but who cares when they taste so much better. Another thing a toaster oven is great for that you didn’t mention — small batches of cookies. I worked for someone once who didn’t like cookies once they went cold, so she would make cookie dough and freeze it, and just make a small batch at a time in the toaster oven, so they were always warm when she ate them! It’s such a great tool!
Visiting your site after seeing your book on The Nester’s blog . . . I gotta say I think I’m addicted! I’m a full time working wife and mother to a 3 year old and 10 month old so your blog calls to me!!! The Google calendar is brilliant – I had no idea there was anything besides a search engine on Google (just kidding/sorta)!
I am so very, very grateful for my camera. I got it last year for Christmas and not only does it help me do my job, it helps me capture all these little moments throughout the day. Now if I could only find the perfect tool for dealing with ALL THESE IMAGES!
)
My most helpful tool would be my Bible. I know everyone may think “that’s kinda weird don’t cha think?” But it’s so true. That Tool helps me in so many ways. I get up, open my Book up to read a really good story that energizes me in my daily task. When I’ve got so much on my mind that could possibly cloud my day and all the “stuff” I have before me…..my time spent reading a good verse like “trust in the Lord with all your heart and don’t lean on your own understanding” (prov 3:5), gets my mind clear and unclouded to do great things.
I feel like a Wonder Woman, able to conquer anything that comes my way today!
……..winning a phone would release me from my ancient phone that one of my younger children would inherit…….♥
hmmm… I’m trying to think of my essential tool and I’d have to say it’s my laptop. That and m iPhone because it’s where I keep my Google calendar, To Do lists, and all the other apps that I use throughout the day. Oh – and it has a camera which is a bonus!
Tabitha – From Single to Married´s latest post: Rock Star
defintely vinegar! well, the laptop too… but vinegar is my go-to for virtually everything. it’s just so darn safe, and effective
It would have to be my computer. I would really love one of these phones though. I LOVE that commercial currently running about it.
Denise´s latest post: Im back
I know this isn’t original, but I use my laptop for coupons, organizing, budgeting, everything!
Great post and awesome giveaway!
My favourite tool is my pantry chef spatulas. The do so many different jobs in the kitchen that I can’t think of anything I would want to hold on to more. It makes so many different cooking jobs so much easier. What an exciting giveaway!
my husband LOVES his headlamp–at first I made fun of him, but now I have to admit it has come in handy MORE than just a time or two. If I win, my husband’s new favorite tool will be his smartphone. thanks!
Definitely my laptop. I use it for so much. But one of those Windows phones would probably pretty darn useful too!
I think my tools must be pretty outdated and I could REALLY use that wonderful phone! Currently I think my sassy red tote bag is a very effective tool allowing me a portable office, snacks on the go, calendar container, books for reading whenever I can and it moves seamlessly from home to van to office, to school and church.
Missy June´s latest post: All I Want
I would never have thought to put a dress in my living room! What a great idea. I love the extra storage and spot of color.
amen to the dressers…I made a mistake selling a really nice one in a knee-jerk effort to streamline and free up space, and so regret it. One thing about simplifying, it’s best not done as a reactionary measure, but an intentional one. *sigh*
I’m new to the smart phone concept – I’m gadget suspicious, as most are gimmicks, but I guess this one is here to stay? It’s a great giveaway, regardless. Thanks.
One of my favorite tools is Cozi, just for the shopping list feature. I like that I can update my list throughout the week on the internet, and then when I’m at the store, I can have my list sent to my phone as a text message.
I’d have to agree with baking soda and add washing soda to that. I use it for cleaning, washing my hair, in my laundry and for making my own baking powder. It is wonderful!
I’m still working on finding my choice Home Management tools. I never consistently use my computer, and my notebook is a little too big to carry around out and about. I’ve actually wondered if a smart phone would be the connection I needed to have everything on my computer.
However, I love love love my self-designed Home Management Notebook. It has everything in there, and a space for everything that isn’t (space to create) I really enjoy keeping it updated, which makes me a little more excited to get done with everything I need to do : )
so originally i thought you were giving away a magnetic strip for the kitchen {which I’ve had me eye on} But a smart phone, how wonderful. I am sure that the phone would be an awesome accessory to any of the moms/dads who read your blog. Your tips and wisdom is such a blessing to read. Thanks.
My laptop is my essential tool as well as Google services like Docs and Calendar. I document everything with these! And Docs makes it easy to collaborate and share my planning with others which worked out swimmingly for planning our wedding, buying our house and etc!
My computer! It’s tough to get along without it.
I have to agree that baking soda and vinegar are perhaps the most versatile and useful tools in a household. Even more wonderful, they’re CHEAP!
My son just dunked my cell into a glass of water and it’s now really hard to view the images!
wow! What a giveaway!
I love my Swiss army knife- very practical- I look forward to giving one to each kid when they turn 12 (that’s what my dad gave me)
I would have to say my kitchen shears. I use them for cutting all kinds of foods. It is so much easier than trying to cut up kids food with a fork. They are also nice in a pinch if you can’t find a regular pair of scissors
With a 9-month old baby, the Ergo carrier is my essential tool right now. I take it with me everywhere, and it’s so much easier than a stroller.
I’d have to say the computer. But, it is sort of a double-edged sword. I can too easily lose track of time – which ends up hurting my productivity instead of helping it!
My goto item these days is my computer. I finally have my calendar set up in google and it’s the first things I see. Helps me stay organized and in charge of the days schedule (or at least makes me feel like it!) Plus I just love the internet and the way it helps me stay connected! Facebook, blogs, blogging, sharing…..it really is a wonderful tool! Would love that smartphone to add to my goto list!!!!! Thanks for this awesome chance!
rani´s latest post: Shimelles First BIrthday Blog Hop!
Oh, I would love to win that phone! Hope it’s Verizon compatible!
I couldn’t live without Google Calendar. I, too, use it for my meal plan (and everything else), and my favorite thing about it is that if plans change all i have to do is drag and drop the meals around in the calendar! Didn’t have that this week? No problem- move it to next week! And I can go back and see what we haven’t eaten in a while if I get in a rut!
I agree about the Google Calendar. I’m so amazed at how easy it is to link my computer calendar to my iPod Touch calendar. No matter where I am when I add an event to my calendar, it all links up in to one big calendar!
I enjoy reading your blog!
I was surprised to see jeans on the list. But you’re right! I live in my jeans, they take me almost everywhere! Thanks for the giveaway opportunity.
Brandy´s latest post: Dino Days
One of my favorite tools is my mattress.
Without proper sleep, I do not function. After almost 5 years of sleeping in a queen size mattress with my 6′-4″ husband and me being a light sleeper, we finally got a Cal King Sleep Number. It wasn’t cheap but I fall asleep a lot quicker and don’t feel him move (which was a big deal in our other bed that kept waking me up). I feel more rested during the day so I’m able to be more productive. 
Roaster and Crock Pots. Steel Cut Oats steamed overnight are calling our names right now
Kendra´s latest post: Classic Re-Post- Christmas Books to Add to Your Collection
our new netflix membership is awesome! we get 2 dvds in the mail each week (no more driving to the library or redbox!) and we get TONS of great programming on our tv via an internet connection to netflix all the time. we have a very basic dish network package but weren’t getting the shows our 4 year old loves. now, for $8.99 a month, we get 8 dvds and all the thomas the train she wants!
anything & everything that has to do with my laptop. it’s so convenient & doesn’t take up a lot of space. i’m very thankful to have one & all the tasks i can do on it. thanks for the chance to win a smart phone. i keep telling myself i need to upgrade & this would be the perfect opportunity to do so!
My toaster oven and laptop get lots of use, too, and we buy baking soda at the club store in 13.5 lb bags. Probably my most-used tools that’s not on your list would be plastic zip-top storage bags, sticky notes, and tote bags (similar to basket use on your list).
I agree with everything on your list (and I’ve been eyeing the Windows Phone 7 for quite some time!). One thing I’d add is my kitchen radio, which is mounted under the cabinet so it doesn’t take up any precious counter space. I have it fixed on NPR, so I’m getting my news, catching up on the latest books and movies, keeping track of time, following business and economic news, and in general feeling connected to my local community as I cook, clean and drink some wine!
Definitely Google calendar. It keeps me sane!
Somebody vacuumed up something highly inappropriate with my Dyson recently, and even after cleaning it like crazy, every time I turned it on it smelled *horrible*. I knew I couldn’t put wet stuff in it, like Febreeze, so finally I poured a ton of baking soda in the floor and vacuumed it up. The vacuum smells much better now.
Dawn Camp´s latest post: Leaves and Light
I love all of these ideas, and I’d love to win a smartphone too!
I have a love/hate relationship with my laptop! So useful, but so addicting. Beyond that, my must have is my sewing machine.
Would love to have that phone.
I’m not a mom, but I just found your site through another blog I read. I had fun searching through your old posts yesterday. I have to agree with you about the Jean comment. I own three pairs of GAP jeans, and they never look bad.
gotta try that google calendar.
Honestly, my favorite item is probably sticky notes! We could wallpaper the house with those things, and I’m just not focused enough to remember unless it’s taped to the counter or front door.
Of course, the laptop and Ipod touch are invaluable on a daily (hourly) basis. I would love a smart phone that would let me carry my email and internet with me, but I haven’t accepted the offer from my office to get one because I don’t want my WORK EMAIL tracking me after hours. I think it’s an important separation to keep.
Alissa´s latest post: Teeny Tiny