Next Project-Office Files

Ok, call it what you will, but I'm on a major organizational rampage. I know, I know, as the days gets closer to baby's arrival it's only going to get worse - but I just can't help it.

Zach came home the other day to find ALL of our office files out of the cabinet and on the desk (or floor) and a huge pile of papers to be shredded! I was on a mission to organize every single piece of paper in every file folder. I was determined to find a home for everything.

I bought new file folders at Costco because I wanted to have all matching folders (a little much I know but it makes me feel good). As each folder came out with the files, each paper got a new home - either in my new folder or in the shredder pile.

It was amazing what I found - many documents were no longer needed (insurance papers from an accident 8 years ago, my first bank statement from '98) and we were able to pair down a lot simply because so much in now available online.
All papers now have a home...I find this critical to keeping an office running smoothly.

I put all of these categories together and then separated them into sections: Investment statements, Bank statements, Mortgage documents, Insurance (both cars and homes), Medical & Health Insurance, etc. And then I had many files of misc. items.
As for how long to keep certain statements I found several helpful websites that told me if I should keep something or shred it. So if you're curious that info. is definitely out there. For example, the utility bills aren't necessary to keep - just check it against last month's statement and then get rid of last month's bill. This will really help with just the amount of papers floating around your home or office.

I didn't have any pictures of the process - probably a good thing - but I do have a few of how it all looks in the cabinet...

Nice and Tidy

Some of the Misc. Documents

(I put these files on the bottom because of the infrequency of use)

So pretty!

And then while I was at it I touched up the top part of the cabinet.

P.S. The cute picture on the middle shelf is of my sister Jess (on the left) and me when we were about 2 & 4 years old. I thought I'd blow up the shot so that you could see us:

If you look closely you'll see that I had a "baby bump" then as well! :)

Don't ask me why I was standing like that.

My mom says that I still stand that way -with my gut out like that!

At least I don't have a mullet...right Jess! :)