The New and Improved Open Kitchen Pantry

Our Kitchen "pantry" was a disaster.  I just had everything on the shelf in an area but there was no way to keep it there.  (This is where I am kicking myself because I didn't take a before picture),  I went to the Dollar Tree and bought these baskets.  I couldn't decide if I liked it or not (I liked that it was about $10).  The next morning I checked it out again and I really didn't like it at all.  I decided it was time to put a little more money into this project. 

I went to IKEA for several items and found these containers in the office organization area.  These are supposed to be recycle bins, but I have used them as containers to organize the pantry.  There were definetely more than I wanted to pay for them but compared to other options, I didn't mind.  I love the different sizes available.  I used the large one on the bottom for the extra Bulk bags from Winco that I use to refill other containers.  The small containers on top hold spice packets and peanut butter.  I think the small ones were $5.99, the Medium $6.99 and the Large one was $9.99. 

I bought labels this past week that I am going to print and stick onto the front of the containers.  

Coffee Filters

Coffee Filters have the most incredible uses and they are so cheap!  Looking for an easy way to save on time, money, effort, unnecessary dishes, etc. etc.

Mike bought Coffee Filters about a month ago.  Here are some of the many uses we are getting from them:

• Spoon rest 
• A plate for breakfast items (toast, english muffins, waffles with jelly) 
• A small bowl to share popcorn with 
• Spill picker upper 
• Window washer 
• Peanut Shell Collector 
• Coaster 
• Pot/Pan Separator (put it in between pans so they don't mess up their finish) 
• Put one in between plates, any time of class or ceramic to keep them from banging together while        transporting
• Put over a bowl or plate while microwaving 
• portion control for snacks  

As you can see the list can go on and on and on.  Simple treasures, simple solutions, simply cheap and easy!

Pinterest Craziness!!

So, I have finally been able to do some easy, low cost projects I have found on the website, Pinterest.  Pinterest has a way of making some people feel inadequate.  I used to feel that way, so I stayed away from it.  I have now realized that the people on Pinterest that make you feel that way, they can't possibly be real and they can't possibly have a life outside of their computer.

I have accepted that my means are what they are.  Most everything I am doing right now are from supplies I have found at The Dollar Tree.  Making meals is something I despise.  I hate getting dinner ready.  I hate the frustration it has with it and that I am not a great cook.  Because of this, I have decided to bite the bullet and start prepping crock pot meals.

I am going to blog some of my journey.  Keep in mine, I do have a real life.  I work 2 jobs, raise 2 kids, have 2 great Danes, and value getting to spend time with my love.  My kids have activities and the house doesn't clean itself.

Our blog is called "The Carr Shop" because sometimes we need to take our Car's in for maintenance and for repair work.  The "Carr's" are in definite need of going to the shop.  We need to refocus, get reorganized and prepare ourselves for what is to come.

If you would like to find fun and easy things to do around your house, healthy crock pot meals or hear a story that will make you say, "Thank God for my life, because the Carr's life is just crazy" then this is the place for you.  Follow us, subscribe or check back often to get updates!

Can't wait to start sharing easy ways to take your family, house, meals, or self to the "Shop".

Lots of love,
Melissa