It's a brand new day......the first Wed. of the year, right?

Thanks to Renee's inspiration, I've been cleaning out the spice cabinets, how about you? I didn't have too much to get rid of, but I did find some multiples of things I use regularly, and now at least I know what looks a little tired and needs to be replaced. And it's a little more orderly...what about you, how are your spices organized? Are they alphabetically stored, categorically by sweet or savory? What do you do to bring order to your spice cabinet? Do share and we can all learn from it! I did find so many cupcake papers, you'd think I was having a party a month for the next year! Perhaps I'll share those with a friend...and cookie cutters! Let's just say that when grandchildren come along, I am all set for making sugar cookies and playing with playdough!

I thought I would do a little research on storing/using spices....here's a few links to what I found and learned about:

http://www.spicebarn.com/storing_spices.html
http://www.condells.com/kitchens/storing-spices/
http://www.helpwithcooking.com/spice-guide/introduction-spices.html


So for today's challenge, Renee is encouraging us to go to the family game and puzzle closet! I have done this once not too long ago, but with my children nearly out of the nest, I am sure there are games up there that could be eliminated! Let's do it!!! Don't you love these simple, small things Renee is bringing to us....doable, yet making steps toward uncluttering, and simplifying our homes and lives. Join us!

Now from Renee, at Add More Chocolate

New Year, New Start: Day 6

The games people play…or don’t! It might have been fun once, but perhaps a piece or two is missing, no one remembers the directions, or your kids have simply aged out. Tastes change so do people. Don’t hang on to something that’s not useful any more.

This is a good time to put in a note about blessing others. Why keep something that someone else might be able to enjoy? Sometimes we need help to recognize what should have gone in the trash a long time ago. Other times we need a gentle nudge to let things go and let them have a new home. If one of your games or puzzles (in good condition!) can be shared, and it will take you less than 5 minutes to put a “donation bag” in your trunk, then go right ahead!

Speaking of games, Renee is a game wizard! She had some pretty good success when she went on the gameshow Jeopardy.......you'll have to ask her about that!

As for games OUR family likes, a few favorites over the years are Quiddler, a fun card game that focuses on making words, Scrabble, Yahtzee and Apples to Apples. What about your family? Are you a game playing family and what are some of your favorites?