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Tag: Central Command Center

Central Command Center Revamped (again)

The year has been a little slow going for me.  With the 2 week christmas break for the kids + a couple involved (but uber-exciting) client projects + computer issues (my laptop keyboard stopping working due to a virus – UGH), I’m a bit behind.  BUT, I’ve got something good for you…  My Revamped (again) Central Command Center. 

Family Central Command Center - Design it to fit your family needs! Created by @Jenna_Burger, WWW.JENNABURGER.COM. Featured in Better Homes and Gardens "I Did It"

I Did It again.

This is the 3rd time I revamped our family central command center (the previous posts can be found here and here).  Our hub of the home.  The 30″ wall that keeps our family on track so we know where we are going when.

So why did I change it once again?  Because our family needs have changed in the last year.  Over time, I found that there were elements on the CCC that we weren’t using and I found that there were other things that we needed.  Keep on reading and I’ll tell you all the particulars about the changes…

But before I share the 411 on the details, you might not know a little something.  Our central command center (the previous version) is featured in this month’s (January 2014) Better Homes and Gardens magazine on the last page in the “I Did It” section.  If you want to read more about the article + some behind-the-scenes footage, take a look at this post.

@Jenna_Burger featured in the I Did It section of Better Homes and Gardens January 2014

So onto the revamped (again) command center.

One of the major needs for our family (actually more so the needs of the 2 kids) were a spot to put ALL THE IMPORTANT PAPERS that they receive from school.  Even though we are a “paper-less” school, a lot of 8.5 x 11’s come home each day.

When making the decision to revamp the CCC, I was on the lookout for some file folders.  Obviously since the wall is small, I couldn’t get anything that was overly large.  After a little searching and waiting, I found a great 3 file wire bin on Joss and Main.  The size was just right, so I snagged it.

Each of the kids now has one opening and there is enough room for a few small folders for the different kinds of papers that come home (ie: school, sports, religion, etc).  A cute little label front in an apple green hue pulls it all together and adds a splash of color.

Family Central Command Center - Design it to fit your family needs! Created by @Jenna_Burger, WWW.JENNABURGER.COM. Featured in Better Homes and Gardens "I Did It"

So as you might notice from the before CCC, the black bins came down (after we redid the foyer, they weren’t needed anymore), and we reduced the amount of clipboards from 4 to 2.  The clipboards that remain now contain our grocery list and a peek at the week ahead.  The other 2 charts that went away – the chore chart and the reward chart – were relocated to another spot.  BUT, I’m still going to share ALL the chart printables with you – see below.

The top of the CCC also had a few changes.  I reduced the amount of inspiration framed images to one and replaced the others with a round wall clock.  I realized other than the oven clock, we didn’t have any other place to tell time.  Plus, an actual wall clock (which I scored at Target for less than $10) is great for learning versus the typical digital style.

The 2-month personalized calendar is still in use – a definite MUST-HAVE for our family to run!

Family Central Command Center - Design it to fit your family needs! Created by @Jenna_Burger, WWW.JENNABURGER.COM. Featured in Better Homes and Gardens "I Did It"

One more change…  The corkboards.  Aren’t they adorable with the ikat pattern?!  They are by Nate Berkus available at Target and each square panel was about $10.  I put 2 together to make a rectangular look.  With the previous command center, I didn’t have a place to pin ‘stuff’ like invitations, announcements, cards, etc.  That was a major need, so now we have that.

Family Central Command Center - Design it to fit your family needs! Created by @Jenna_Burger, WWW.JENNABURGER.COM. Featured in Better Homes and Gardens "I Did It"

The glass jar pipe clamp pen/pencil holders are still in tact and they are great + uber-functional.

Family Central Command Center - Design it to fit your family needs! Created by @Jenna_Burger, WWW.JENNABURGER.COM. Featured in Better Homes and Gardens "I Did It"

And that’s about it for the updates.

The result…

Family Central Command Center - Design it to fit your family needs! Created by @Jenna_Burger, WWW.JENNABURGER.COM. Featured in Better Homes and Gardens "I Did It"

And a breakdown of the changes I made for the revamped 2014 central command center…

Family Central Command Center - Design it to fit your family needs! Created by @Jenna_Burger, WWW.JENNABURGER.COM. Featured in Better Homes and Gardens "I Did It"

Here’s an interesting before + after.  The blank slate I started with 2 years ago and how it looks now…

Family Central Command Center - Design it to fit your family needs! Created by @Jenna_Burger, WWW.JENNABURGER.COM. Featured in Better Homes and Gardens "I Did It"

It’s truly amazing how such a small wall can be used to the max.  From floor to ceiling, side to side, this wall is 100% functional!

Okay, so I mentioned earlier in the post that I’d share the printables that I created for this wall.  Some I still use and some I don’t, but were featured in the magazine article.

Calendar

Personalized Calendar Printable created by @Jenna_Burger, WWW.JENNABURGER.COM

Click to Print: Calendar Printable (for personal use only)

Grocery List / Weekly Menu

Grocery List / Weekly Menu Printable created by @Jenna_Burger, WWW.JENNABURGER.COM

Click to Print: Grocery List (for personal use only)

Chore Chart

Chore Chart Printable created by @Jenna_Burger, WWW.JENNABURGER.COMClick to Print: Chore Chart_2014 (for personal use only)

Reward Chart

Reward Chart created by @Jenna_Burger, WWW.JENNABURGER.COM

Click to Print: Reward Chart (for personal use only)

Peek at the Week ahead

Peek at the Week ahead created by @Jenna_Burger, WWW.JENNABURGER.COM

This is a printable I created for the BHG photoshoot, but the idea for this printable came from Jen at I Heart Organizing.  I would never want to take someone’s idea and present it as mine, so I’m not sharing a copy of this for you to download.  Instead I encourage you to print the one she created (which is much cuter than mine) or be inspired and create your own.  Click here for Jen’s Peek at the Week Printable.

If you have any trouble downloading the printables, please let me know.  I don’t often create printables, so I hope they are easy to print.  From my end, they look good to go!

Later this week I will be guest posting about ways to create a command center in your home over at the Style Spotters blog on the Better Homes and Gardens website.  Be sure to check it out and of course, I will share a link.

In the meantime, cheers to 2014 and getting organized + making life simpler for the New Year!

I’m a CoverGirl

I was thrilled when the Fall issue of Saratoga Mama (affiliated with SaratogaMama.com & Saratoga Today) hit the stands last week because not only do I love finding out what’s happening in my neck of the woods, but I got to finally see the space I designed featured on the front cover.

My first cover! I’m officially a CoverGirl.  Well kinda…

One of the fun & challenging projects I took on this Summer was to partner with Colleen of Saratoga Mama to makeover 3 rooms for a feature in the back-to-school issue.  In 2 days (not consecutively, thankfully) we scouted, shopped, staged, and shot the spaces.  It was a whirlwind, but it was a blast.

Here is the result.

Fall Issue of Saratoga Mama Magazine

All 3 spaces were okay.  Just okay.  But they needed a little TLC to ultimately be more stylish & functional.  Once a plan of action was set, we were on our way!  Check out more of the process + what worked/didn’t work {here}

Now to the details of each space…

Space 1: Central Command Center

Creating a Central Command Center

The homeowner of this space was in major need of an organized drop space for everything to keep her family running. They needed a spot for all the everyday ‘stuff’ like keys, kids school papers, announcements, invitations, etc.  We decked out the open wall space between her kitchen and dining room with a new central command center to get her family on track.  The space includes:

  • A personalized 2-month calendar (similar to the one I created for my family)
  • Clipboards to easily rotate and change the weekly chore chart and homework chart
  • Metal bins for each child
  • A corkboard for important things
  • and a little Personalization!

After we shopped, I layed out the items on the floor to create the perfect montage.  I created a faux wall on the floor using painters tape so the measurements would be exact once translated to the wall.

We moved, rotated, tweaked, and adjusted until it was just right.  Here is the result of the layout…

Creating a Central Command Center

And the final Central Command Center on the wall…

Creating a Central Command Center

Creating a Central Command Center

And finally, the layout in the magazine.

Creating a Central Command Center

The homeowners kids were super cute.  And even though the little girl didn’t want to be photographed, it all ended well and the photographer captured an adorable photo.

Creating a Central Command Center

In the end, the homeowner was thrilled and expressed how useful + functional this space is for her and her family. It’s a real space she uses everyday!  It’s incredible what can be created with a little thought and focus.  In all, this space cost less than $100 to create.

Here is a breakdown:

  • Clipboards: $5
  • Personalized Calendar: $15 (for the frame; calendar is a DIY creation)
  • Red metal files: $30 (homegoods)
  • Corkboard: $30 (homegoods – it’s supposed to be hung horizontal, but I removed the original hooks and added new white hooks placed vertically for keys)
  • Pen holders: $8 (even though meant for the desk, I hung them using a nail)
  • Shelf & wall decor:$0 (repurposed from another space)

Space 2: Mom Cave

Office Makeover in one day + on a budget

This was an awesome space to transform.  Most of the elements were already there and actually remained in the space, but with some minor tweaking, this office looks completely different!  The desk area is located at the landing of a second floor cape-style home.  The ceilings slope to about 4′, but the area was too large to be wasted.  Just recently, the homeowner moved her desk to this area and it’s been a great, quiet haven to work.  YET, it wasn’t pretty and inviting.  It needed something!  With a few quick changes, this space went from drab to fab.

The first thing I noticed when I walked up the stairs to this space was the lack of color.  It needed something for the eye to draw in.  The ideal wall was the low wall behind the desk.  It was begging for something intense.  I chose Benjamin Moore Rhubarb for a splash of color against the white distressed desk. It was the perfect solution for this office makeover. A few other elements included:

  • A new desk lamp. (Target)  The old style was too harsh, so I brought in a non-typical task lamp that gives a soft glow to the space instead of an intense, direct light.
  • New knobs. (Hobby Lobby) Changing the top knobs added definition to the desk + they pick up the new rhubarb wall color & gold tones in the lamp
  • Storage for desk organization. (Homegoods and Staples)
  • A corkboard. (Homegoods)
  • A desk chair. (TJ Maxx)  A comfy and non-traditional desk chair.

The space was so fun to put together and in the end I saw how happy the little changes meant to the homeowner.  Little things do make a difference.

Office Makeover in one day + on a budget

I’m in love with this lamp.  The faux snakeskin lamp base gives the space texture and depth, and an unexpected elegance.  The brass tones at the bottom of the lamp base were also picked up in other areas of the room (small doses, of course) like the labels on the corkboard organizer and the new knobs.

Office Makeover in one day + on a budget

What was supposed to be a picture frame got changed into a daily corkboard organizer using a roll of cork + stick on labels.  Now the homeowner can add reminders for the week and break it up per day.

Office Makeover in one day + on a budget

The side wall used to hold 2 floating shelves that protruded too far into the room.  Now a photo montage wall filled with black & white family photos + meaningful elements makes this wall a happy place.  Adding in a repurposed chair + a standing lamp with a new shade was the final touch.  This space is now inviting, comfortable, and ideal for a work-from-home mom.

shoot26

Office Makeover in one day + on a budget

The final result in the magazine…

Office Makeover in one day + on a budget

A few of the elements in this space are new, but most were repurposed from other rooms throughout the home.  It’s a space that is warm + welcoming, & ideal to work in.

Space 3: Kids Corner

Kids Corner Makeover

If you’ve got kids, most likely they love to color and create.  A place in the home just for them to call their own is so important.  A place that holds all their stuff so that at any time they can grab a puzzle, a book, or a paint brush will make them happy and independent.  The newly created kids corner in this home was once a dark space with a chair that covered most of the corner.  The outcave that was meant for a TV was unoccupied leaving a large span of open space, and the doors below were serving no purpose for what was behind them.  A new functional space was needed!

The first step to transforming this space was to remove the cabinet doors.  With my suggestion of a soft blue hue, the homeowner painted the interior of the cabinet, as well as the shelves + the new shelves above.  Then on our scouting adventure, we found fun baskets to hold paper, books, and all the necessary crafting supplies to fill the shelves. Books, puzzles, and pictures from around the home quickly filled the rest.

The new spot was coming together…

Kids Corner Makeover

Sometimes the most unexpected items end up being the best.  My most favorite element in the new kids corner is definitely the industrial-style arrow.  The homeowner thought I was a little crazy about purchasing this for the space, but I felt it was right.  It was fun, unique, and totally not expected.  It also makes the ideal space for holding books, stuffed animals, and other cute accessories.  Lastly, I love this arrow because it heightens that space.   Even though the wall is narrow it needs to be filled.  Filling it draws the eye up, which makes the room feel larger and taller.

Kids Corner Makeover

Kids Corner Makeover

Finding this ‘desk’ that was actually part of a nesting table set makes for the perfect work space.  Even though this wall is only about 30″ wide, it’s the perfect spot for a little creator.  The top of the desk wasn’t flat (not ideal for working), so I suggested the homeowner have a piece of glass cut to size.  It cost about $15 and make the best flat surface.

3 adorable coat hangers are hung on the side wall to easily change out artwork & beautiful one-of-a-kind creations.

Kids Corner Makeover

The result in the magazine…

Kids Corner Makeover

And that’s a wrap.

It was awesome to be apart of such 3 great transformations.  In just 2 days, Colleen and I accomplished a whole heck of a lot.  It’s amazing how much can be transformed with a plan and a small budget.  If you live in the Saratoga area, be sure to pick up the latest issue of Saratoga Mama Magazine.  If you’re not in the area, no worries, click here to read it online.

Have a space in mind that you’ve been wanting to give a makeover?  Start by shopping your home.  Repurposed items that you already own are the best way to give your home a new look without spending a dime.  As an example, you should check out how I spiced up my bookcase with $5. Yes it only cost $5!

How-To Make a Chalkboard Wall

Chalkboard walls are not just for kids.  They are super fun & functional for everyone, at any age.  While the kids are busy creating new drawings, us moms are making lists so nothing’s forgotten at the store.  The need for a chalkboard wall in a home can also change and evolve as your family changes and grows.

Another plus about chalkboard walls is that with the use of chalkboard paint, they are super easy to create.  For less than $10 and a few spare hours, a new wall can be created anywhere in your home (or office)!

Inexpensive & Easy-To-Create "Framed" Chalkboard Wall using @frogtape by @Jenna_Burger, SASinteriors.net

Earlier this week, I shared my revamped CCC {Central Command Center}.  This 30″ wide spot in our home has had about 6 (or maybe more) makeovers, but it’s an intracle spot that keeps our family on track day-to-day.

For this new CCC, I decided to add a chalkboard backdrop.  To create this fun, yet important part of the wall, I used chalkboard paint.

chalkboard paint

This lil’ old can has been around for almost 2 years and has been used on a ton of projects.  The largest before this project was the chalkboard wall we created in the basement for the kids a couple of years back.  Anyway, this can has lasted a long time!

Before starting the chalkboard wall, I decided I wanted to create a “frame” surround.  There really is no “frame” on the wall, but by leaving 3″ of the yellow wall color, a “frame” surround was created.

Inexpensive & Easy-To-Create "Framed" Chalkboard Wall using @frogtape by @Jenna_Burger, SASinteriors.net

To create the frame, I applied two layers (two rows of tape side-by-side) of FrogTape.  This was my first time using FrogTape and I’m in love!  It was great.  Y’all know what a pain of a time I had when I painted the mouldings white, well this stuff would have come in handy.  Basically this tape has a sealer that when applied to the wall it doesn’t let paint seep underneath.  I had a few spots that the paint went under, but for the most part, it was great!

Inexpensive & Easy-To-Create "Framed" Chalkboard Wall using @frogtape by @Jenna_Burger, SASinteriors.netI wasn’t provided product from FrogTape.  I bought it myself because I’ve been wanting to try it out for a long time.  It gets my seal of approval!

Inexpensive & Easy-To-Create "Framed" Chalkboard Wall using @frogtape by @Jenna_Burger, SASinteriors.net

Once I applied the FrogTape and “burnished” it (pressed down really hard at the edges), I was able to start painting.

Inexpensive & Easy-To-Create "Framed" Chalkboard Wall using @frogtape by @Jenna_Burger, SASinteriors.net

I applied 3-4 coats of the chalkboard paint so the surface was fully covered and no wall color from underneath came through.

Once I knew no more coats were needed, I removed the paint.  If the paint is still wet, that’s okay.  As you peel away the tape, you’ll see your crisp, clean line! What a beauty.

Inexpensive & Easy-To-Create "Framed" Chalkboard Wall using @frogtape by @Jenna_Burger, SASinteriors.net

And then you’re ready to stand back and admire!

Inexpensive & Easy-To-Create "Framed" Chalkboard Wall using @frogtape by @Jenna_Burger, SASinteriors.net

Once your chalkboard wall is complete, the fun of either drawing or layering can begin! Since this is more of a functional spot than a fun spot, I created a Family Central Command Center.  This is how it resulted…  And you can learn more about it {here}.

Central Command Center_11a

Have you ever used chalkboard paint before? If so, what have you created?

Want to see more of my chalkboard projects (using this one can of paint)?
New Years Sparkly Tablescape with Chalkboard Candles
Kids Play Kitchen
Framed Chalkboard Medicine Cabinet
Chalkboard Platter

Revamped Family Chalkboard Central Command Center

Chalkboard Family Central Command Center for the heart of the home including a monthly calendar, kids charts, inspirational quotes, and more.  Created by @Jenna_Burger via sasinteriors.net

This 30″ wide wall has had more makeovers than any other spot in my home.  In the almost 3 years that we’ve lived here, I think it’s had at least 6 lives – thank goodness it’s not an entire room.  But I have to say, this 30″ wall is the key to how we function – it’s our Central Command Center… a.k.a. CCC

I couldn’t let the year begin without making a few updates to this small, but important part of our home (the previous CCC can be found here).  I actually had made a few changes about a month ago, but it just wasn’t right.  After living with it for a while, I knew what it needed…  A chalkboard.  An entire wall of chalkboard.

The revamp started with removing everything from the CCC, patching up the old holes, and touching it up with some fresh paint.  Once the wall was ready, I was off applying the chalkboard paint.

I’ll share more on the specifics of how I created the chalkboard backdrop in a separate blog post, but in the meantime, let’s take a tour of my NEW Family Central Command Center…

Chalkboard Family Central Command Center for the heart of the home including a monthly calendar, kids charts, inspirational quotes, and more.  Created by @Jenna_Burger via sasinteriors.net

One of the major changes to the CCC is the calendar.  The calendar that I had previously created was for only one month.  SO many of you asked me, “I love the one month, but what do you do with plans you need to write down for the next month?”.  I actually had the same dilemma and now it’s resolved.  There are two calendars for two months.  Problem solved. When the month we’re in is on the bottom, I put the next month’s dates on the top.  It’s a little backwards having the month after above, but it works!

Chalkboard Family Central Command Center for the heart of the home including a monthly calendar, kids charts, inspirational quotes, and more.  Created by @Jenna_Burger via sasinteriors.net

On the picture frame turned calendar, I still use a sharpie, dry-erase pen, or these handy-dandy pens by NameBubbles that are available with their write-on labels.

Did you notice the frames on the calendar & pictures above are now white instead of black?  Once the chalkboard was painted on the wall, the black frames disappeared, so I spray painted the old ones.  Using a white primer spray paint + a white glossy top coat, the frames are as good as new.

I still love my inspirational quotes and those are the same (in their new white frames).

Chalkboard Family Central Command Center for the heart of the home including a monthly calendar, kids charts, inspirational quotes, and more.  Created by @Jenna_Burger via sasinteriors.net

Below the calendar are the new additions to the CCC.  A month ago when the wall got an update, I made these 4 fun clipboards with scrapbook paper.  In between them are our key (and misc stuff) boxes that I had purchased at TJs and spray painted them black.

Chalkboard Family Central Command Center for the heart of the home including a monthly calendar, kids charts, inspirational quotes, and more.  Created by @Jenna_Burger via sasinteriors.net

Chalkboard Family Central Command Center for the heart of the home including a monthly calendar, kids charts, inspirational quotes, and more.  Created by @Jenna_Burger via sasinteriors.net

The top clipboards hold our grocery list & our Peak at the Week schedule.  Now I have no excuses to forget anything at the store – haha (wishful thinking)…

Chalkboard Family Central Command Center for the heart of the home including a monthly calendar, kids charts, inspirational quotes, and more.  Created by @Jenna_Burger via sasinteriors.netLooking to print these out – click {here} for the Peak at the Week chart created by iheartorganizing.com; Click {here} for the Grocery List created by The Time-Warp Wife (thanks to the awesome reader who found the link!)

And below are the kids charts – a chore / responsibility chart for my son and a reward chart where both kids get to add stickers when they’ve made good choices / decisions.

Perfectly at their level!

Chalkboard Family Central Command Center for the heart of the home including a monthly calendar, kids charts, inspirational quotes, and more.  Created by @Jenna_Burger via sasinteriors.netLooking to print these out – click {here} for the chore chart and click {here} for the reward chart

I chose this spot of the home because it’s in the ideal location, kinda close to the foyer and kinda close to the kitchen.  It’s a small spot (a large wall or space isn’t really needed), yet is efficiently and thoughtfully put together for all our family needs.

Chalkboard Family Central Command Center for the heart of the home including a monthly calendar, kids charts, inspirational quotes, and more.  Created by @Jenna_Burger via sasinteriors.net

One of the major needs that was missing in our previous CCCs was something to write with.  Somehow we can NEVER find a pen or a pencil in our home (our kids must eat them – hehe).  Being inspired by others who used mason jars for storage, I grabbed some hose clamps from Lowe’s and installed two pencil / pen holders next to the charts.  I put them high enough, so little fingers hopefully won’t touch them. {A tutorial on how-to create jelly jar pen holders to come soon}.

Chalkboard Family Central Command Center for the heart of the home including a monthly calendar, kids charts, inspirational quotes, and more.  Created by @Jenna_Burger via sasinteriors.net

Chalkboard Family Central Command Center for the heart of the home including a monthly calendar, kids charts, inspirational quotes, and more.  Created by @Jenna_Burger via sasinteriors.net

Something that I haven’t shared, but created a long time ago is our family stool.  It’s something so simple, but used everyday!  From using it in the kitchen and closet or as an extra seat, our Ikea step stool is awesome.  When I bought it, it had a natural wood finish, but with a little paint (the same color as the kitchen), I revamped it.  Then using the same stencil that I created for my pallet box, I added our family initial: b.

Chalkboard Family Central Command Center for the heart of the home including a monthly calendar, kids charts, inspirational quotes, and more.  Created by @Jenna_Burger via sasinteriors.net

Lastly, of course we had to chalk-up our new wall!  That’s the point of chalkboard!!

Chalkboard Family Central Command Center for the heart of the home including a monthly calendar, kids charts, inspirational quotes, and more.  Created by @Jenna_Burger via sasinteriors.net

I love how a chalkboard wall allows you to continually change it.

Chalkboard Family Central Command Center for the heart of the home including a monthly calendar, kids charts, inspirational quotes, and more.  Created by @Jenna_Burger via sasinteriors.net

And that sums up the tour of our 30″ wide everything wall!

Chalkboard Family Central Command Center for the heart of the home including a monthly calendar, kids charts, inspirational quotes, and more.  Created by @Jenna_Burger via sasinteriors.net

 How does your family stay organized?  Do you have a central “spot” in your home?

DIY: Personalized Dry Erase Calendar

Last week I shared some inspirational ideas on creating a Central Command Center, as well as my new CCC spot.  One of the features in my newly organized space is the personalized dry-erase calendar that I made.  I had previously purchased a dry-erase board from Tar-Jay, but it was just too small to write all the activities and notes to keep my family on track for the month ahead.

We needed something that had space for our daily schedule, as well as a place for notes, like:
bring books to the library by Tuesday or
pick up the dry cleaning after 6 on Friday or
don’t forget to buy MILK!

Hopefully with this new and much larger calendar, tasks and plans won’t fall through the cracks…


Last week right after finishing this CCC wall, we had some friends over for a bbq.  While enjoying our cocktails, the husband shouts out while pointing to the calendar, “That’s exactly what we need, where did you buy that?”

My response, “I didn’t buy it, I made it”

His response, “really?” … (he totally wasn’t believing it!)

But I really did make it myself and so can you… for less $15! I started off with a 16″ x 20″” frame from AC Moore.  The Portrait frames are always on sale for 40 or 50%, so I scored this for about $13.

At the time of purchase, I wasn’t sure how I was going to pull this calendar together, but I knew I wanted to add some color and pizazz.  I found some pretty scrapbook paper (which was also on sale) for $0.40 a sheet. I loved their modern designs and vibrant hues… a perfect compliment to the kitchen and dining space. (I have a lot of paper leftover, which I will definitely be using for another project!)

Then using the Excel program, I was able to make a calendar and print it on 11 x 17 paper.  I also made a separate sheet for notes.  Using the cells in Excel, it’s really easy to create.  Are you an excel user?  It’s one of my favorite programs to use ~ weird, I know.

Using my good ole’ imagination, along with my pretty paper and magic scissors, I created my personalized dry erase calendar.

To add a bit of personalization, I included our family name – Burger – to the top, using one of the stylish papers and my printer.  No silhouette machine here… ( I would love one though!)

I have to admit, this vibrant red polka-dot paper wasn’t the best choice for writing our name on, but O well, it works.  A quieter background would have been better – you learn from your mistakes, right?  That’s what is great about this personalized calendar… I can continually change the background and it’ll only cost pennies!

Here it is, complete and ready to be used!

After Post Note: I’ve received ALOT of questions about writing directly on the glass.  Just like a dry erase board, a dry erase marker can be used to write on the glass and it’s easy to clean with the felt end tip, a paper towel, or even your finger. DO NOT USE A SHARPIE – that will not erase!

It wasn’t up on the wall for five minutes and was already filled out…

And if you missed my new Central Command Center, here’s a peak and you can read this {post}.

In making this calendar, I was inspired by the personalized calendar that Beth created using one of her favorite go-to resources.  Check out her post {here}. Thanks Beth!

How do you stay organized?  Do you have a ‘go-to’ spot in your home where everything is layed out for the whole family? Do you have a family calendar? or a Central Command Center?  I have to admit, it sure is nice to be organized (at least in one area of my house, ha)!

My New Central Command Center

With back-to-school (well in my case first-time to school since my son is starting kindergarten) around the corner, I wanted to be armed, prepared, and organized for all the papers and plans that will be coming in only a few short weeks.

Creating a Central Command Center has been on my mind for quite some time, and when a wall in my kitchen/dining room area was all of a sudden blank, it was a perfect spot to create this hub-of-the-home.

When visualizing this space, I thoroughly thought through the needs of my family and what we were currently lacking – a family go-to calendar, a place for keys, and all the “stuff” that doesn’t have a home.

In my previous attempt to create a Central Command Center, which can be seen in {this post}, I purchased a dry-erase board that was just too small to fit all the details needed for our daily activities.  This is the wall before and the way-too-small family calendar.

Bye Bye store-bought dry erase board…  Hello to my custom home-made family calendar~

Check back next week for a whole tutorial on how I created this beauty!

I couldn’t just put a calendar on the wall and call it a-day.  I needed more!

Yes, I needed a spot to put the keys, outgoing mail, digital camera, and all the misc “things” that never have a home.  With this project in my mind for a while, I found these mail caddy’s at TJ Maxx last month and scooped them right up.  At the time of purchase, I didn’t have a plan for them, but since then they’ve gotten quite a transformation.

A little black satin spray paint did the trick to transform these once Sea Shell boxes into sophisticated mailboxes for “The Hub”!

To customize and identify these new mail boxes, I removed the label hardware from an old photo box and used liquid nails to glue the metal labels onto these boxes.  Now I just have to put in a label – ‘his’ and ‘hers’ – and they’ll be complete.  Since these handy mail boxes sit directly under the dry-erase calendar, I added a strip of magnet for the pen… it’s tucked in the corner and will hopefully stay out of sight and reach of little fingers (I hope, but I’m probably wrong).

Another detail added to this CCC, are the framed inspirational pictures above the family calendar.  Aren’t they adorable?!

My go-to place, Pinterest, is filled with inspiration and I found these quotes a while ago and have been saving them for a good place to display.  I love being inspired by great words and this was the perfect spot to see them and be inspired on a daily basis!

I printed them on my computer, cut them, and used simple black Ikea frames, to display them – Art is easy to make!

Before everything went up on the wall, I layed it out on the floor to make sure it all fit and to get the spacing just right.  I also had the intention and need for a cork board, but it got the ax since there wasn’t enough room – I’ll have to put that someplace else.

and here it is…

My Completed Central Command Center

It’s already filled with family events and mail to go out ~

And of course, my son couldn’t resist being in the shot – he used to hate the camera, but now loves it!

It feels great to be getting organized before school begins and I loving having a spot where everyone knows whats happening when!  Check back next week for a tutorial on created a personalized dry-erase calendar.

Have a great weekend!  Any plans or DIY projects in the horizon?

My New Central Command Center

With back-to-school (well in my case first-time to school since my son is starting kindergarten) around the corner, I wanted to be armed, prepared, and organized for all the papers and plans that will be coming in only a few short weeks.

Creating a Central Command Center has been on my mind for quite some time, and when a wall in my kitchen/dining room area was all of a sudden blank, it was a perfect spot to create this hub-of-the-home.

When visualizing this space, I thoroughly thought through the needs of my family and what we were currently lacking – a family go-to calendar, a place for keys, and all the “stuff” that doesn’t have a home.

In my previous attempt to create a Central Command Center, which can be seen in {this post}, I purchased a dry-erase board that was just too small to fit all the details needed for our daily activities.  This is the wall before and the way-too-small family calendar.

Bye Bye store-bought dry erase board…  Hello to my custom home-made family calendar~

Check back next week for a whole tutorial on how I created this beauty!

I couldn’t just put a calendar on the wall and call it a-day.  I needed more!

Yes, I needed a spot to put the keys, outgoing mail, digital camera, and all the misc “things” that never have a home.  With this project in my mind for a while, I found these mail caddy’s at TJ Maxx last month and scooped them right up.  At the time of purchase, I didn’t have a plan for them, but since then they’ve gotten quite a transformation.

A little black satin spray paint did the trick to transform these once Sea Shell boxes into sophisticated mailboxes for “The Hub”!

To customize and identify these new mail boxes, I removed the label hardware from an old photo box and used liquid nails to glue the metal labels onto these boxes.  Now I just have to put in a label – ‘his’ and ‘hers’ – and they’ll be complete.  Since these handy mail boxes sit directly under the dry-erase calendar, I added a strip of magnet for the pen… it’s tucked in the corner and will hopefully stay out of sight and reach of little fingers (I hope, but I’m probably wrong).

Another detail added to this CCC, are the framed inspirational pictures above the family calendar.  Aren’t they adorable?!

My go-to place, Pinterest, is filled with inspiration and I found these quotes a while ago and have been saving them for a good place to display.  I love being inspired by great words and this was the perfect spot to see them and be inspired on a daily basis!

I printed them on my computer, cut them, and used simple black Ikea frames, to display them – Art is easy to make!

Before everything went up on the wall, I layed it out on the floor to make sure it all fit and to get the spacing just right.  I also had the intention and need for a cork board, but it got the ax since there wasn’t enough room – I’ll have to put that someplace else.

and here it is…

My Completed Central Command Center

It’s already filled with family events and mail to go out ~

And of course, my son couldn’t resist being in the shot – he used to hate the camera, but now loves it!

It feels great to be getting organized before school begins and I loving having a spot where everyone knows whats happening when!  Check back next week for a tutorial on created a personalized dry-erase calendar.

Have a great weekend!  Any plans or DIY projects in the horizon?

Creating a Central Command Center

If I’ve said it once, I’ve said it a gazzillion times alot…I’m always moving things around my house.  As I’ve mentioned in previous posts, my foyer has been making quite the transformation with repurposed items, along with the newly stenciled wall and glazed cabinet.  With a few moves, there was a wall in my kitchen/dining room that was all of a sudden left empty… Yes, it was blank and something had to be done with it!  A blank wall with nothing on it…that’s sinful (ha)!  I thought and thought…what to do?  what to do? 

Let’s take a step back ~ a while back I had created a central command center by my refrigerator, but it really wasn’t useful.  With much thought, I decided to use this newly blank wall for a new CCC (central command center)!

What’s a central command center, you ask?

Well, I will tell you!  It’s the go-to place for EVERYTHING.  A spot (especially if you have kids) where all the daily details are layed out, where papers are organized, and where there’s a detailed calendar of events so you know where everyone is going at a certain time, on a certain day.  A must need for any home ~ don’t you agree?!

I had alot of thoughts in my head of what I needed and how I wanted to design this space, BUT before I started, I wanted to check around for some inspiration.  Where was my go-to place?  Pinterest, of course!

Pottery Barn has some great items to help with organizing your family.  A reader just emailed me yesterday about the picture from this post and it’s the incredible modular system that Pottery Barn offers, that helps pull together any space to create an efficient organzational hub.

Buckets, Baskets, and a Bench… What more do you need to create a central command center?

Isn’t this CCC beautifully layed out and functional?  I really like the idea of having the initial of each member of the family and their information in one place – it’s easy to identify and grab on-the-go!

This Kitchen Command Center created by The Clay Family is a must for any family to stay organized!  With a spot for a daily menu, notes, and kids chore board there is no question of who does what and when…right?!

We all love chalkboard (am I right?) and this CCC that Sarah of The Yellow Cape Cod created is perfect for any large (or small) family.  The daily responsibilities of everyone in the family is simply stated with no questions asked! And I love the quote – “Many Hands Make Light Work” (so true!)

Sometimes a central command center isn’t just for the family, but instead a place where we keep all of our “stuff”.  Candice Stringham created this office/studio/art supply closet to hold all her supplies.  With all the “objects in her office”, now everything has a home.

My kids are young and haven’t been overloaded with homework … YET.  DaNita of Delightful Order created this Homework Bulletin Board for her family, so she can easily keep track of her boys school and activity schedules.  I like how she has added a picture of each of her kids, so their space is easily identifiable.

Two more Pottery Barn spaces that are gorgeously designed.  Great look and fabulous idea for the hub of the home !

House of Fifty (published by one of my favorite bloggers, Janell of Isabella and Max Rooms), a seasonal online magazine has a fabulous article in their premier issue about creating a Command Center for the home.  I love that stylish cork board and just recently made one for myself – I’ll be sharing that soon!

BHG always does it right and has awesome organizational ideas ~ Check out some of their strategies on storage {here}

Lastly (but certainly not least), here’s a sneak peak of my Central Command Center, which I will be revealing tomorrow….

Stay Tuned!

What projects have you been up to lately?

You would have thought after my kitchen makeover that I would have taken a break (that was my intention, but didn’t happen – O, well).  I can’t wait to show you what I created for our new CCC