Kathi,

I hate to clean but can’t afford a housekeeper. How can I clean in as little time as possible? It seems to take me at least 10 minutes just to get started and find my cleaning supplies.

Marissa, San Marcos

Marissa,

Ready to clean but can’t find the scrubber brush?
Keep a separate bucket of cleaning products in each major cleaning area, i.e. a complete set for kitchen & a separate set for each bathroom.
Each bucket should contain sponges, gloves, cleaner sprays & separate specialty items such as toilet bowl cleaner, shower door spray or oven cleaner.

When you are ready to tackle the job, simply pull out your bucket & begin cleaning! Once the job is completed, put it back in the cabinet under the sink and you’ll be ready to go again.

Dear Kathi,

All of my friends are confused about attending parties with our children. When the party is held at a home, we have a hard time deciding whether we are required or expected to stay for the entire party.
What is the proper way to let parents know if they must, should offer, or don’t need to stay for a 5 year olds’ birthday party?

Vicki, Oceanside

Vicki,

Invitations should state clearly whether parents should plan on attending the event. An easy way to let parents know they are off the hook is to include wording on the invitation that says, ‘ childcare provided’. Or if it is optional, you can state ‘parents stay is optional, there will be ample child care’.

If the invitation does not indicate that there will enough adults to oversee the event, this usually means that the parents are expected to stay to help watch their child during the party.
It is appropriate to call after receiving the invitation to clarify if you are expected to stay or if you can drop off your child and return at the end of the party.
Thanks for asking this question.

Dear Kathi,

Is it optional to wear nylons at work these days? I work at a bank and would love to forgo the pantyhose ordeal.

Christy, Del Mar

Christy,

The business environment in Southern California is more casual than most other cities. With the warmer climate, women often wear sandals and open-toed shoes 6-9 months of the year. In my opinion, with the proper shoes, you can dress very professionally without hose.
With this in mind, if you are still doubt about your particular bank, ask a trusted manager. If this isn’t possible, pay attention to your superiors. Does everyone wear hose every day?
It pays to dress similar to your superiors. It makes it easier for them to see you as a pier and your chances for advancement are increased. Some banks are still very conservative and you don’t want to jeopardize your job advancement.
Remember, dress not for the position you are in, but for the position you aspire to attain.
Kathi is a professional organizer, image consultant and event planner based in San Diego California.

Please submit your questions to: advice@addspacetoyourlife.com
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San Diego Professional Organizer