Works for Me Wednesday: The Peanut Butter Basket

I think the inspiration for this little brainstorm was the book, Confessions of an Organized Housewife (which book, by the way, caused my friend Lisa to about die with laughter when she spotted it on my shelf, half hidden behind a flower vase, three hair barrettes, and an old disposable camera, while helping me pack for the move).

The author of that book talks about kitchen organization, and storing items commonly used together in one place, instead of, say, measuring cups in cabinet X and measuring spoons in drawer Y. Makes more sense to keep your measuring cups and spoons together along with the electric beaters, your favorite mixing bowl, and possibly the baking powder.

I thought that was a great idea and promptly took her advice (some six or seven years ago).

Later it occurred to me to use that grouping technique for the lunch-prep items my kids and I use almost every single day. I got a plastic basket for the pantry, and that's where we keep the peanut butter (creamy and crunchy), honey, and a loaf of bread. It's much easier to pull out that one basket than to have the kids rummaging through the pantry for the various items.

Hardly rocket science, but it works for us!

(And of course this is the same principle at work in my famed Personal Salad Bar.)

Comments

[mistihollrah]

I have "stations" like that set up around my house & kitchen. It's the only way to go!

[Jennifer]

Great idea! I recall the Personal Salad Bar too, it's wonderful to have adaptable ideas, isn't it?

[Eileen]

Lissa,
What A great Idea!!!I am browsing from the beach.Can't wait to discuss low tide homeschooling :)!!!!-Eileen

[Sarah]

I hadn't thought of grouping items for lunch or a type of meal (like the salad bar) but we do have two plastic bins in the pantry for all the snack items my dd and her friends can access on their own. I love that she knows what she is allowed to get for snack and can serve herself.

[Ann C.]

I loved your jazzy Personal Salad Bar idea when you first wrote about it, Lissa, and I made one for myself. I can't help thinking of you with a smile every time I refresh its contents.