Hayden got a bigger bed for his growing body. Now that he’s FIVE, I wanted to transition to more of a little boy’s room. My sister Jordyn and her husband Cody came out to help and boy did they!

Here were the things I needed to consider: 1) We are still renting, so I didn’t want to invest in anything we couldn’t take with us. 2) He still loves his animals (“stuffies”). Since there will come a day soon where he won’t want all of them, I’m holding on to this sweet time for now. 3) I needed to make use of a small space and somehow reduce clutter. READ ON for details on everything, as well as our solutions!

The first thing to consider was where to put the bigger bed from Evolur. We debated against the wall to give more floor space but ultimately, this placement looked best. The bed is a full WITH A TRUNDLE (see photo below). Eventually, I’ll use the trundle to hold a mattress for guest, but for now (GENIUS IDEA FROM JORDYN), it’s much needed storage. The nightstand next to it is a universal model from Evolur. FYI: Evolur’s furniture is very well made, easy to assemble and incredibly durable.

I had the idea to take some of his nocturnal animals and put them in the tree. It adds interest and character! This is a 6 foot faux fiddle leaf tree under $180! It’s easy to maneuver and place limbs and leaves where you want them. I love this tree!

The large giraffe is staying with us for now. We still love this guy! Such a big impact and well made for a great price.

One of the best ideas my sister had was this AFFORDABLE white storage unit. It streamlined his toys and looks so neat and clean. Plus, these large, white bins are the perfect size for him to come grab himself and bring to another room if he wants.

The acrylic collector’s lamp over Hayden’s book shelf is one of my favorite things. We change the theme often (from cars, to dinosaurs to holiday items). It would also look fun in a little girl’s room full of sea shells or something. Right now, there’s free shipping!

Things are always a work in progress, but this feels good for Hayden for right now. I know I didn’t link everything, so if you have a specific question, please let me know and I’ll hopefully get it answered. xoxo AAJ

WIN YOUR VERY OWN PANTRY MAKEOVER from RUBBERMAID®

As I’ve mentioned on the blog already, March is National Nutrition Month. It spurred me to take a look at our pantry and see what snacks we have readily available. I also wanted to make sure they were easy to find and healthy! Although we did a great job making over the pantry last year, it’s a good idea to give it great refresher every 6-9 months. It was the perfect time to go throw a few things out and combine items in baskets. If you’re in need of more than a refresher… like a FULL BLOWN MAKEOVER valued at $5000!… keep reading! This is NOT a sponsored post. I worked with Rubbermaid® this to spread the word about their giveaway on social media, but this blog post was not a part of it. I just really want one of you to win!! LOL. So, read on and ENTER! Also, I had too much fun organizing with my mini-me (see photos below:) and wanted a place to share all these silly, fun pictures. I’m definitely oversharing here—- there’s so many!

Last year, Metro’s Other Woman came to help with organization and gave a few tips that stuck with me.

1. DO NOT keep boxes. This takes up unnecessary space and you can’t tell when you are running low on commodities. Throw out the packaging and DO KEEP items in containers or baskets. Rubbermaid® Easy Find Lids™ are an awesome solution.
2. DO KEEP “like with like.” For instance, keep all your bars (protein, granola) in one basket (I like wire ones I can still see the items, some people like solid baskets). All the pastas together in containers, crackers and chips, etc…. you get the idea.
3. DO USE Lazy Susans and can holders to maximize space.
4. DO utilize back of pantry door with racks (we haven’t done this yet, but I’m looking into it).
5. DO NOT keep expired items. Check your dates, throw out expired items to create space!

Honestly, the first rule of thumb about not keeping boxes will make a world of difference. I created so much extra space, I was able to carve out a section for the kids. Hayden and Huck’s little art cubby was one big messy basket. But now, it looks so creative and inviting, with little kid-friendly snacks. Hayden LOVES to “help” me in the kitchen, so this one way to keep him engaged!

So just in time for that spring cleaning fever, enter the Easy Find Lids™ sweepstakes between March 17-May 5 for a chance to get your dream pantry: www.EASYFINDWIN.com. There are two ways to enter: with a receipt of a qualifying purchase of Easy Find Lids™ or without a qualifying purchase. All info can be found with that link ->easyfindwin.com. If you have any questions, please comment below and I will get answers for you! In the meantime, start your organizing! Rubbermaid® made these Easy Find Lids especially for me, I swear. Lids are like socks sometimes. They just get lost. These lids are “easy to find” because they are red and snap to the base of the container. They are stackable, dishwasher, microwave and freezer safe-- and affordable.
How often do you go through things in your pantry? It feels SO GOOD to declutter and create space. If you’re one to keep up with organization, what is your top tip to share?

ps- my super soft t-shirt is on SALE FOR $9! And jeans are on SALE FOR $37!