Storage ottoman

When it comes to decorating and design, I consider about 500 items/sources/magazines, think some more, and then finally decide to buy. Since we are in the process of staging our house to sell, we are trying to pare down items, find items for a smaller space, and use furniture that is multi-functional. Enter ottoman. There are a million to choose from and yes we could have purchased a really high-end, long-lasting one but since none of our other furniture is high end, we wouldn't want the rest of the room to be jealous. This one's from Target and about about $80. We have it as a quasi table (with a tray on for a level surface), but you can also use it for additional seating, and you can store blankets/pillows/junk inside.

Dymo Personal Label Maker LetraTag Plus LT-100H

(Left item) Okay, I know this is a bit Type A but I love this thing. We recently organized all of our important documents in a file cabinet. I spent a great deal of time separating and categorizing bills and documents. This item accomplishes this--and many other related tasks--easily. I got the label maker at Target (it was about $19) and the refills are about $6 (2/pack). I think it's easier to read when it's printed with no particular person's handwriting. Corey used it to organize items in his classroom, and we have a more sophisticated version at work. In fact, this was the most sought-after Christmas gift at our exchange last year. I can imagine it: one great big craft/scrapbook/photo closet, divided and organized with these labels...

Method cleaning products

Since I am pretty much allergic to everything anyways, the push for retailers to start offering organic/non-toxic cleaning supplies works for my consumer interests. Target features a line of plant-based, non-toxic cleaning products called Method. Some of them still have scent but they are all natually-derived. I've used the bathroom cleaner, wood cleaner, multi-purpose cleaner (in unscented & grapefruit--YUM). Oprah's got a whole list of other companies that offer non-toxic supplies, so I am sure I will try some of those out too. I've tried the Seventh Generation powdered dishwasher soap (in which I was only trying to buy the cheapest version of a pricier product) but it left some chunks on my dishes. Method also carries microfiber and other cleaning cloths (I have the one to use with the furniture polish), mops, and air fresheners (I've got two) that used soy-based, all-natural scents that are non-toxic. They smell great and last a long time.