I’ve shown you guys this Cupcake Courier before. It’s been awhile, but I still love it and I wanted to show you a couple more ways you can enjoy it.
First and foremost, it carries cupcakes.
It can hold 36 cupcakes. Or 24 or 12 or any amount in between. Just remove the stackable trays to suit your need.
Perfect for larger batches of cupcakes or taking them to a holiday party or get together.
And if you remove all three trays…
Then you can use it for cakes. And pretty big ones, too.
But here is the best part. The real reason I have fallen deeper in love with this carrier. It allows me to do much more when it comes to carrying my baked goods.
I am talking specifically about cake pops here. Yep, because the courier is so tall, it triples as a handy dandy cake pop courier, too.
It serves multiple purposes. One… it simply allows you to store them upright without having to wrap them in treat bags.
And two… it allows you to carry them more easily to happy recipients. With or without treat bags.
Here … let me show you what I mean.
Tah dah. Perfectly protected pops. Of course you’ll have to imagine them made for full effect. I just used sticks and styrofoam to illustrate the idea.
If you use 6-inch paper lollipop sticks (8-inch sticks would be too tall) and some styrofoam, it will fit just fine in the base of the courier.
Styrofoam blocks come in many sizes and one of the common sizes is 4 x 12 x 2 inches high. Grab two of them and place them side by side on the base and then make 12 holes in each block. You can then easily carry 24 cake pops. And if you can’t find the styrofoam in that size, then cut down a larger piece of styrofoam to 8 X 12.
Either way it’s a great way to get more out of an already handy product. You can find them on amazon.com.
Hope that helps all you guys that are cake popping and cupcake making… and of course, carrying.
And to celebrate finding ways to do more with less, here’s a fun giveaway.
- This giveaway starts November 15 and goes until November 29, 2010. Time’s Up! Winner Announced below.
- To be entered in the giveaway, just leave a comment on this post and describe something you’ve found to be more productive or some way you do more with less. That’s it.
- One winner will be chosen at random using random.org and announced on this post at the end of the contest period following verification. See complete rules for details.
- The prize is one (1) Windows Phone 7 (all features and details of the phone will be determined by the Sponsor.)
Okay, here’s the winner, chosen at random.
Congratulations Wendy! Have fun with your new phone.
And thank you everyone for so many great ideas to do more with less. You guys are really resourceful. I’m impressed.
This giveaway is brought to you by the new Windows Phone 7. Less tech tired. More tech trendy: Learn about Windows Phone online and see it in person at local T-Mobile stores today.
Pyrex storage containers! I use to buy those plastic ones all the time….. and they would always end up in the trash with still a gazillion of them in my cupboards. so they all got pitched and *poof* now i have more cupboard space and pretty glass storage containers to boot:)
I make cookie dough, scoop it onto a cookie sheet and freeze it. Then I bag the dough balls for easy access on a cold, blustery night. I usually make several batches all at once and this gives me more time to spend with my family. I am considering using this as a gift – frozen dough balls and instructions for baking to order!
Happy Holidays. My new multi purpose love is castile soap. It can be used as shampoo, for shaving, household cleaning, laundry. You name it!
I like to make almost all our food from scratch. My grocery bill is way less when I don’t buy lots of premade things and I know exactly what my family is eating. It helps that I love to cook!
TO get off the icky gross stuck on food from pans, I put a squirt of dish liquid and some water and simmer it on the stove top on low while I was the other dishes. By the time I am done with the rest of the dishes the stuck on pan is already to get cleaned and no scrubbing required!
I have my children pick a theme for their birthdays in January (their birthdays are May and July) and then I can start planning for the event. I have been able to find many great deals and makes the time right before the party less stressful because all I have to do is pull the things I got for the party out of the closet.
I also have that cupcake holder and was so excited to see that I could use it for cakepops too. I actually made some for our soccer party and transported them in the holder! Thanks for the tip!
I’m so impressed by the person with the $30 grocery list! I wish!! I know that if I tried that I would give up in an instant because I’d get a headache from trying so hard to save money. Can you do my groceries for me? ;-)
I am a major coupon queen! I never pay full price for anything if I can help it. I am most productive in finding way to make our budget stretch as far as it can, with 5 children, hubby and I , Now all the things we never used to be able to afford is more within our reach! Thanks!
I’m all about doing more with less by using free tools such as the Google calendar to organize my day, week, month, year…need I go on!!!
Staying organized keeps productivity up—ziploc baggies are great for odds and ends, etc.
I’m more productive when there no distractions around me! I like it when it’s quite I concentrate more.
I made myself a list of everyday of the week and then I assigned a chore to that day and then when I get off work, I go home and know what I should be doing…i get overwhelmed when thinking of everything that needs to be done and usually end up getting lots started but nothing finished :)
Since my hubs is the pickier eater, I have him plan the weekly menu and all I do is pick up the ingredients. Well, and cook. But he does help clean up! Having him plan the menu takes the pressure off of me to come up with healthy, interesting ideas every week.
Thanks for the great giveaway!!
When I truly busy and life is crazy around here, I have to have my “to Do” list. i use to have them everyday when I worked, and now I have them so I can get work done around the house.
I use an awesome gold meditating frog statue to hang bracelets, elastics and necklaces off of :)
My husband loves putting leftover meat with cheese and toasting it into a quesadilla. One more dinner I don’t have to worry about.
I recycle toys with friends. We give each other our good condition toys that our own kids have gotten tired of so that other kids can enjoy them. Since we exchange, it cuts down on Christmas gift costs.
Well since I just finished painting my family room, I’ll give two related tips: First but one of those cups (and the disposable liners) with the strap handle and the magnet. The magnet holds the paintbrush when you need to stop paining for a bit, the strap makes it easier to hold, and the cup is the perfect size for painting trim or cutting in. Second, if you have to stop painting for a few hours, or even overnight, leave the brush right in that cup and cover the whole thing with Glad press-n-seal, making a tight seal around the top of the cup. Your paint won’t dry out and you can start and stop painting easier that way.
Binder clips are one of my favorite use things. I have used them of course to bind papers together but they are also great as chip clips. Another use I have for them is when I want to keep the kids clothes clean and they are eating or doing something messy I take a dish towel and wrap around their shoulders and clip it together in the back. Just like a baby bib only bigger and not for a baby..lol. I have even used them to hold hair up out of my eyes (hey..desperate times ya know). If you have lost the clips to one of your 3D pans you can use the binder clips instead (I wouldn’t use the painted ones though). I also use them to clip pant outfits together on one hanger. Clip them to the bottom part and then clip pants to them and hang the shirt over it. Perfect for childrens outfits or even adults outfits you want to keep together. They also work great for clothes that you are supposed to hang to dry. Clip them to the hanger then you don’t have hanger shoulders. :)
I try to make my grocery list in the order of the store where I’ll be shopping. It saves time since there is no backtracking and just buying what’s on the list helps keep my budget in check.
All the glass I used for my wedding to hold candy treats and our favors I now use to hold all my crafting supplies. Plus it looks pretty cute to use some blue ball jars to hold buttons!
I have to turn off the computer, have my husband hide the iPad, and turn of the ringer on my cell! Then I can be productive…but then I still have those pesky kids to slow me down! :-)
I am not near as creative as many of these comments, but I have some great ideas now that I have read them and plan on using some!
Thanks for all your great ideas and an amazing website that I always look forward to reading!
I have found that I love to use mini cupcake tins to make everything bakable! Whether it’s brownies, cupcakes, cornbread, biscuits, monkey bread, sausage balls, anything!!
I make all our families breads & crackers. My grandson loves to help make his own graham crackers. Great with using a fork to poke holes!!
Sleep makes me very productive!
I use vinegar for cleaning my floors…and in my laundry. I love vinegar!
I try and make cake pops as gifts and as gift bags for the holidays and for the kids birthdays. The kids seem to love them and so do the adults. Cant bake enough!! Happy Holidays
I use a toothbrush (unused) to clean a whole realm of things…kids bath toys…tile…I could go on and on. Thanks so much for the wonderful giveaway, hope you pick me!
Erin (eoskey@hotmail.com)
Oh Bakerella, you have the best things on your website! I love the carrier that you have shown. I have been needing something to transport cupcakes it and this carrier is awesome!
My husband and I both work full-time and have 2 kids, so to keep track of who is doing what…our relationship has moved the electronic mode. We send calendar invites to one another so we know when one of us needs to work late, the kids have an event or just any daily reminder. It shows up on our work calendar which makes it easier to pay attention to one calendar….I tried keeping seperate calendars but have found it be easier to just keep one.
Each time I am on the phone for more than just a minute or two I start cleaning. I not only work faster, but I forget that I am even cleaning. Thanks for the giveaway!!!
What I have found to be more productive is…. to take a nap! If I can squeeze in a very short nap sometime in the day, I tend to be more productive at work and at home!
Papertowels are an amazing thing.
My kitchen aid mixer. Cant live wit out it.
We don’t buy Christmas ornaments, we make them out of pine cones, paper chains, recycled Christmas cards and whatever else we can find. This year I’m making some out of left over starfish that I had for some summer projects.
This may sound odd, but I’m going to say Bisquick. I knew there was a reason my mom always had some on hand when we were growing up…so many uses..one little box.
I’ve found having two ovens is more productive than just having one! Thank heavens for that.
My best tool that lets me be consistent with sizes in my baking is my self ejecting ice cream scoop. I could not live without it now and have them in all the sizes I could find. I even use one of them to scoop the dough out for when I make cake pops so they are all the same size and I get the maximum amount out of a batch of batter!!!
Turning off the computer does wonders. hehe =)
I buy meat in the big packages, and as soon as I get home I open it up, divide it into small packages (for just the 2 of us), wrap it in plastic and and freeze it. I put all of it into empty ice cream buckets in the freezer that I have labeled beef, pork, chicken, etc. No more rummaging through the whole freezer to find just 2 small pork chops!
I love the cupcake carrier! It can also be used to help seperate beads or any small item that needs to be organized!
My girlfriend and I are sharing household items and chores. We recently purchased dog clippers so we can start grooming our dogs at home. We are also meal planning for a month and then when get together once a week to make ahead much of that week’s meals.
I make memory boards. They are great for showing off pics of your loved ones, but I have found out other great uses for it.
I have one hanging on my fridge and I put the Dr. appt cards and messages for the kids on it. It is a central location “communication center.” Anothe use is if you have a daughter that loves to wear hair ribbons, you can store the ribbons on the memory board and they don’t get lost :)
I love reading everyone’s ideas!
Happy Holidays everyone,
Cyndi
I’m more productive when I have less time to accomplish something. I am very easily distracted, but if I think that I need to have the house clean in 1/2 an hour – I immediately put everything down that I am doing and become a cleaning machine! :)
I knit while sitting in my university courses so at the end of the week i have my head stuffen full with knowledge AND a paif of socks=)
Keeping my fabric stash neatly tucked in zip lock bags makes it easy to store and easy to see when I need just that right piece of fabric for my embroidery applique designs.
I honestly can’t think of much… I scoffed at my husband when he wanted to get an iPod Touch, but now that we have one we use it for so many things!
I really make an effort to repurpose leftovers, trying not to through away food. I’ve started making my own breadcrumbs with leftover bread products, etc. Money saving and practical, too!
I find I am more productive if I have everythng organized. I keep some of the stuff in small plastic bins for example food coloring in plastic bin and I can grab when I need to decorate
my cookies or cupcakes… Voila!
My Cookie cutters, I use them to do everything, cut cookies of course but decorate pies and cupcakes, cut out cute sandwiches and just make food fun in general. I’ve been practicing cute food for when my son gets old enough to eat real food.
I get more with less by doing comparison shopping using Bing.
I use witch hazel (distilled) for spots, bruises, mosquito bites, rashes, and general cleansing and toning. It is good for everything!
plastic grocery bags. I use them to clean up our rabbit’s cage, and I use them in every small trash can around the house. Oh, and Lysol wipes. They make cleaning the kitchen and bath so much easier!
I just made my own laundry detergent and it was easy! It didn’t gel up like it was supposed to, but it works anyway.
My daughter gave me large bag for mother’s day, complete with her photo & hand drawn pictures in the windows on the front of it. I use it for everything from carrying clothes to picnic lunches!
Ziploc bags are super useful! I use them for everything, from piping frosting to being my coin purse!
I am definitely a list kind of woman. If there is anything that keeps me on track….it is making a list. Whether it is for shopping or vacations…I write a list. I rarely forget things this way.
I use half plastic bottle of water for cooking my “buche de noel”
christmas dessert !
Wow, cool carrier! I would love to get one of those =)
I bake about 8 pies at Thanksgiving and I make my own crusts as well and they are so good! I think I need to try your chocolaty brownie pecan pie this year though! It looks delicious!! Let’s see, well I usually have end up putting some of my pies in cake carriers too because I don’t have enough pie carriers and sometimes when I make cheesecakes, if they fit in my cake carrier I like to transport them in there as well so they don’t get ruined.
Recently I have found a lot more crockpot recipes including side dishes and desserts. This saves me a lot of time and trouble as an at home mom with 3 kids.
I rather found my planner to be a good device for me to keep myself in line with regards to deadlines and tasks I have to do!
i re-use cereal boxes to carry cupcakes i find that the twin pack boxes are sturdier and work best :)
I always save trimmings from my cakes , I pop them all in a bag in the freezer and add to it , then when I want to make rum balls or cake balls or a crumb crust for a pie I pull them out and use them!! delicious and cost effective
Riding the bus to/from work has made me more productive. I use less money and gas to get to work. I use the time on the bus to sleep which I never have enough of so more sleep makes me work better or I use the time to read a book which I normally would never find the time for. Plus riding the bus completely eliminates my chances of getting in an at fault car accident which my insurance company and my pocketbook LOVE!
When making cheesecakes, it is a timesaver to put the cream cheese bars and eggs in some warm water if I forgot to leave them out to reach room temperature. I have to change the water several times with the cream cheese, but when time is short, it is the only way I can get warmed bars without melting them.
using coupons really help to do more with less i save alot of money a year .
I’ve found that I’m most productive when I divide my work in sections and do each one of them little by little, switching between them because I tend to get too distracted when I do the same thing for hours…
I am a preeschool teacher and do alot of activities with children, and most of the activities and games that I do with childen are homemade… That’s why I keep all the boxes and containers to make toys and activities for the children… Sometimes, I end up using them for something else around the house, wraping a gift, making card,….. I feel bad sometimes when somebody says that I collect trash, but I recycle all the boxes that I have without bothering myself to buy the materials for the project ;)
To be more productive I pour a glass of wine to help me focus on my task. :]
Well since my husband has been out of work for 3 months i plan on getting more presents for less money on black friday. does that count?
baking and cooking more (a work in progress) means I need fewer things and a lot less clutter without all the packaging and packages, it is amazing how few staples are needed to make a variety of tasty, nutritious things.
I trust four sources when cooking/baking…Rachel Ray; Bakerella; Martha Stewart and SOME Kraft recipes. I found that anytime I trust another recipe…it’s awful! I only trust these four!
Uh, I seriously doubt if I’m going to win, BUT
I have been known to use garbage bag wires to wrap my presents in a pinch.
I find I am way more productive when my area is clutter free…..and when I am not on the internet! :)
My kitchen aid mixer, use it to make everything!
This is common sense to most people, but I just figured out to plan out my weekly menus for grocery shopping! its more productive, because I find ingredients that will work for more than one meal-so instead of just tossing perfectly good food, I use it in another recipe! I’ve also saved lots of money by not just aimlessly wandering through the store!
Keeping friends and family updated with our family’s events through a simple email list. It saves time and trees and everyone feels important to be in the know.
This year, it’s about shopping sales and making money stretch. most gifts have been bought and I was able to find a Cricut Cake cutter on sale for only $50 from Michael’s. it made my day, and will certainly make baking for the holidays easier! i would love to see you use he Cricut in your blog. i read it all the time.
Those Magic Erasers clean my ceramic top stove like a charm. I would really *LOVE* a gas stove. Maybe you can give one of those away! :-)
I love the cupcake courier!! One of the best things I have ever bought! Besides holding cupcakes and cakes, I like using the cookie cover sheets that come with it to hold mini cupcakes! And it holds ALOT!
When I think “multitaskers,” I think of my boyfriend. He’s a low-budget gourmet, so he doesn’t have half of the tools to pull off the dishes he’d like to cook, but he makes it work if only because he’s more resourceful than anybody deserves to be. For example, he’s got a massive bag of Basmati Rice, but he doesn’t have a strainer to wash it with. So he uses a mesh splatter shield to wash it, instead. He’s a smart cookie!
Making a meals menu for the whole week, before going to the grocery store, can help you save time and money.
I use q-tips for everything. Nails, makeup, craft projects, you name it.
I recently moved and don’t have a dishwasher. My husband keeps reminding me that it is easier to wash dishes as you go instead of having a huge pile-up to take care of at the end of the day. Makes sense. I try.
I’ve found that a standard eating spoon has a multitude of uses… Yes it can scoop, “spoon”, cradle, and ladle, but did you also know the back of it is perfect for smoothing creamy foods like peanut butter, mayonaise or any other sauce? It’s also pretty good at cutting when you don’t have any other choices, and let’s not even get on the topic of a spoon being a great musical instrument. It’s one of the most useful inventions.
ziplock bags! I use them to organize my craft supplies, I use it to put away extra pencils and pens in my desk and to keep everything oraginzed everywher eelse. Especially little loose bits and ends.
:D
I use toothpaste at night to dry up a zit. Many times, one night of sleep with toothpaste on my face and I wake up blemish free!
I have found buying bread/bagels/rolls from costco saves me lots of money and time and we always have some on hand just set it out and defrost and always tastes great!
I always save boxes over the year so I can make the perfect size box for christmas time. It takes more time, but it makes the gift more personal and it saves money in the long run. All i have to buy is tape!
coupons!!!!! and cooking extra large meals and freezing half for later.
Staying off the computer allows me to be more productive, but I can’t seem to sign off…
I use pledge on my stainless steel appliances. It is way less expensive than stainless steel cleaners. They seem to be very streaky, but pledge works perfectly. Love the holder. Thanks for such cool giveaways!
I’m more productive when I share the housework load – with my kids! Daily chore routines take the burden off of me, prepare my boys to be able adults, and make me less grumpy!
I am most productive when i dont sweat the small stuff.
A dvd player in the car for my 18 month old has made my life SO MUCH EASIER! Car rides are so much more pleasant now! ;)
while on long car rides, we give my son a cookie tray to use on his lap in his car seat. the edges are high enough to keep crayons and cars from rolling off and it acts as a magnet for the letters/numbers we bring too. it gives him hours of fun and less complaining for us!
coffee filters come in large quantities and can be used to cover food in the microwave, mop up a small spill, hold candy or crackers on the table, and be used for crafts!
When I’m lying in bed at night agonizing over everything I need to do the next day, week, month or in the year, I make a list. I list out everything I want/need to get done the following day or build on my list for the week, month or year. To make my life simpler, I put a number or star by items that I would like to accompish first or have high importance. Not only am I more organized when I start my day, but I also sleep better getting all of my worries on paper and off my mind!
When I add specific time ranges to my to do list, it gives me little mini deadlines and helps me get more done!
lists, lists and more lists! they help keep me on track!
Turn off the computer!!
My laptop = With as much as we travel/move…it’s my sanity when I need a break from the chaos of being stay at home mama. My websites, email, music, everything is on here.
I’m more proactive when I actually manage to shut the computer off. Sad, but true!
Treasure the small moments of life. I’m much more productive when my attitude is one of gratitude.
My favorite basil pesto comes in a really cute jar so I started saving them and they’ve been good for salad dressings in packed lunches, buttons, and so many other random oddities.
I’ve just recently discovered I enjoy baking. I bought a cupcake holder from target that hold 24 cupcake but it doesn’t work well with decorated cupcakes. So I stick to using paper box tops (free from work).
Daylight savings time makes me more productive because I try to get everything done before the sun goes down:)
I never buy kitchen garbage bags. I just tie a knot into one end of my dry cleaning bags and use them. They are stronger than you think.
Dryer Sheets!! They are SO useful! If you have static in the clothes you are wearing, rub a dryer sheet on you. When I take a freshly washed blanket or sheets out of the laundry I wrap a couple of dryer sheets in when I fold them and get that fresh clean scent for a longer time. But the best is when you have a pan that has baked on stuck on muck, fill it with hot water and place a dryer sheet in it. Let sit overnight and in the morning, just wipe all that baked on icky stuff off. Amazing!
I use an old tea strainer to get the uneaten food out my fish bowl!
I make sure everyone in the house knows to load the dishwasher right after each item is used, and I wipe kitchen counters every evening before bed.
I have four laundry baskets: white, towels, colors and hand wash. Everyone if the house is expected to put their laundry in the appropriate basket-this saves SO much time since all I have to do is just pick up a basket and load it into the washer.
Cordless phones and/or cell phone with headset frees me up to do some dusting (or other noiseless chore) while chatting.
I have the cupcake courier as well. And I really use it for everything…. but you know what else I use, ya know those containers that are plastic with the black bottom and the clear top. I reuse them all the time and when I can, I take them(empty containers) and reuse them all the time, untill they break.
Mary
I am most definitely more productive with a smart phone. I love being able to look up recipes no matter where I am. When I am baking I turn on music for inspration and relaxation. There is no better way to relieve life’s stresses.
Hi,
Congratulations , your work is fabulous. I have a store in Lisbon, Portugal. The store is a sugarcraft and kitchen things store and i’d love have your book there to sell. Do you think it’s possible? Who I have to contact?
Thank you and congratulations for your work.
Mônica Cunha
I use my Tarte Blush as both lipstick, blush, and sometimes eyeshadow! The thing has lasted for over a year and has saved me both money and time.
I use a baby bottle dishwasher container (can’t rememeber what they’re called) to put decorating tips and couplers in to wash them in the dishwasher.
I sometimes wrap gifts in left over packing paper. Looks so recycled and cool!
I use paper for most decorating… halloween, thanksgiving, christmas. I make memories with my kid while I make silly looking deocrations. And paper is cheap…
I use men’s razors when I shave. When I used to use the crummy disposable women’s razors, I would go through several a month. Now, I only have to change out my razor once every few months. It saves me money in the long run, and I rarely, if ever, cut myself shaving. I recommend the trick to everyone I know!
I think I will look for one of these soon…I could really use one. It seems like when Im under stress I can do more…Im not sure how that works but it gets me movin! =)
Thanks for all the great ideas!!!
I cook my foil wrapped potatoes in the crock pot. I can set it on high or low depending on how many hours I will be gone. When I get home, I have nice baked potatoes for dinner. (Potato bar, Chili and cheese on baked potatoes, Potato tacos – everything you would put on a taco except the lettuce, or twice baked potatoes. Easy dinners!)
Funny you should mention phones because my smartphone helps me all the time with the calendar, email, and even recipe apps. Who knew I could be so organized?
Home made cleaning fluids. We use it for everything. Cutting back on laundry soap if possible.
I save milk jugs and am making an igloo for the kids to play in this winter
I use old jars from sauces and stuff for flower jars or to keep items I get in bulk like beans, oatmeal, granola, etc. In the pantry. They’re clear so u can always see what you have and how much.
oh wow, i’m SO super excited about this giveaway.
i love your blog.
to be more productive, i enter things into my phone’s calendar so that my phone alerts me when i need to be doing something.
unfortunately, my current phone spazzes out and forgets to go off, so a new phone would be PERFECT!!!
Freezing extra sauces, is great !!!
I do more with less by diluting All Purpose cleaner.
Not sure if I can use brand names here! The one I use is more expensive than supermarket brands but I love the smell of it and ultimately am saving money instead of buying less costlier products more often.
A 2 pint bottle has lasted me 11 months so far and I easily have another 2 -3 months of usage to go!
I found that a 99 cent small plastic spray bottle filled with 1/4 cleaner + 3/4 water with extra elbow grease works just as well if not better than using the cleaner at full strength.
I get to exercise my arms! Use my favorite cleaner, my apartment smells lovely, everything is spotless and I’m saving money.
Thanks for this giveaway!
I try to use coupons and match deals to help our family stretch our pennies and make do with spending a little less!
I do way more when I watch less tv :)
Manage your time efficiently!
I use my muffin tins for tons of things. Little food carriers for my kids, craft storage to keep things organized, I cook all sorts of things in them. I E> muffin tins!
I have found that the cardboard inside toilet paper rolls is for more than just keeping the the roll round. We painted them in a Christmas theme and they will be wonderful pillow boxes filled with treats for classmates, they also make cute little carolers (just add a face, hands and a tiny little song book), hold together bundled cords/lights…it’s amazing. Who knew TP could be the gift that kept on giving?
I plan my meals for the next week on wednesday when the new sales flyer comes out. I then match coupons, and plan the meals so there’s no expensive surprises during the week.
I have found a big crockpot of stew on sunday makes me more productive through out the week. No eating out and no worrying about cooking.
I actually bought this one on a whim despite the fact that I already had three cupcake carriers. I am so glad that I did because I LOVE it and now I know that it will work for my cake pop creations! YEA – now if we can just get an insert with stick size holes in it…
I have found a big crockpot of stew on sunday makes me more productive through out the week. No eating out and no worrying about cooking.
After baking Christmas Cake and Christmas Pud I use any leftover fruit and nuts to make Panforte to give as Christmas gifts – yum!
I must say I love the post about baking cookies and then giving them blank as a gift with toppings – brilliance!
The food shopping dilemma. First check that pantry, refrig. & freezer. Make your list up by the layout of your foodstore. Boy your in and out in no time flat. When you get home you will never say darn I forget that! Love your blog. My grandbabies and their friend love love love the cake pops. When they see me coming that’s the first thing they ask ” Did you make cake pops!”
When I make dinner, I will make enough for two meals. Eat one and freeze the other. This way when dinner arrives before I am ready, all I have to do is pull a meal out of the freezer, stick it in the oven and it’s done! I LOVE the Cupcake Courier, I have three and they are fabulous!
a to-do list makes me more productive and focus!
I usually use two half sheet cake pans to transport cupcakes to my kids classes – not only can I fit all the cupcakes in, but I can also carry plates, napkins and extra frosting (for those little mishaps).
This cupcake carrier might be a little more protective so that when my purse falls over it doesn’t fall into the cupcake frosting!
I’m more productive when I have a list and a plan. That way I know what needs to done and how it’s going to get done. I can’t make excuses for forgetting or not knowing what needs to get done this way.
I’ve found that we don’t need so much “junk” around here – the less stuff I have to deal with, the more productive I am!
I use petroleum jelly for a lot of things .. replacing a lot of pricier beauty products. Lip balm. It also makes a great cuticle/hangnail cream. A little tiny bit across the knuckles softens hands. Rubbed on chapped cheeks after playing in the snow. Smeared on my son’s feet with a thick pair of socks helps relieve the cracking he seems to get seasonally.
We bought a motion sensor trashcan. I hate smelling trash. After cracking eggs or hand mixing meatloaf, it’s worth it’s weight in gold. But, honestly, it’s become our most commented item by all guests in the history of people with houses. We have given people trash can envy. Who knew that existed?
I need to find a more convenient way to carry my baked goods – somehow something always falls. Maybe I’ll try this out!
I take grocery store bags and crochet them, they make excellent reuseable market bags or pool or beach bags. I use one as a purse and have made baskets for my shelves from them too..ITs my favorite green thing to do.
My baking hobby and my other (slightly geekier) hobbies sometimes collide in interesting ways. I’ve found Hershey’s baking cocoa containers — the rectangular plastic tins — to be surprisingly useful and versatile. I’ve turned them into everything from a coin bank to a scabbard for a boffer sword for Live-Action RolePlaying. I told you I was a geek. Empty vanilla bottles also make dandy potion vials. It’s a good thing I bake so much!
For organizing my busy schedule – I love my momAgenda day planner, which has room for me to list each of my kids’ activities separately. And my Macbook, which makes EVERYTHING simpler.
In the kitchen – My CrockPot & my Pressure Cooker, and, of course, Pampered Chef stoneware and tools.
For cake decorating – http://www.cakecentral.com
lol i want the cupcake holder too!!! I am an embroiderer so I multipurpose like crazy! a cloth jewelery box as a travel embroidery kit. an empty floss container as a portable embroidery floss container (and cutter – you can take it on a plane!!!) etc etc. love your blog Bakerella!!! Thank you!!
i stopped playing Farmville and just bake instead…:)
I do all of the chopping at one time and bag/freeze in ziplocs (onions, bellpeppers, celery, garlic). I also keep a family-contributor list where everyone adds the things we need at the grocery.
I use vinegar for everything: to clean windows and mirrors, freshen the garbage disposal, even to rid my hair of soapy residue. The best part is… it’s CHEAP!
I’ve been going through my entire house and eliminating things that I have not used in over a year and, in general, getting rid of lots of my stuff. I’m more productive without all the extra things I never use.
Something productive would be using a tool box to carry my paints and paint brushes.
I save my dryer sheets and do a quick dust on the window sills with them!
I am more productive by using dry shampoo instead of trying to wash and dry my hair everyday!
Music on and everyone is working together. My kids are actually helping…my husband is being productive and that’s when harmony sings it’s sweet melody. And that is when I get the most accomplished.
I buy a big (5 gallon I think) container of vinegar from Costco and use a vinegar/water mixture for all of my cleaning needs. It lasts me forever!!
I use a storage ottoman as a toy box. Looks nice and hides all the toys :)
I am most productive when I pay attention to my calendar and know what’s gonna happen when!
You know those little plastic discs that are used on bread bags? I save them. If you average a loaf of bread a week, then its 52 discs a year. I use them to tie up bags of frozen vegetables, chocolate chips, cracker bags, etc. It cuts down on placing things in a ziploc bag – I love it
I have 3 kids and I am always running them here and there. One thing that I have done to make my life easier is give them each a folder that is stored in my kitchen. I put all of their important information from school in there as well fun things that they have made for school. Later, I go through all of it and purge or keep–it keeps it from being all over my house though!
When I recently needed a new power cord for my laptop, the manufacturer sent it in one of those bubble wrap-padded envelopes. I have since been using this envelope to store my battery when I can hook my computer up to an outlet and use it without the battery. The bubble wrap is still fairly bubbly, and it keeps the battery from getting damaged. It’s not much, but it’s the only multi-purpose item I can think of right now.
I get rid of clothes that I haven’t worn in that season and try to give away something whenever I buy something new.
Thanks for the giveaway!
I’m more productive when I get up early in the morning rather than sleeping in.
I try to sit down and make myself a to-do list every night before bed. As part of my new “birthday-panic-must-get-stuff-together-now-before-I’m-a-total-failure-at-life” plan, those lists along with a lot of other things will be going into a new (cheap but cute) journal I bought myself.
I loooooove my Cupcake Courier. I teach cake decorating classes and it has made my life infinitely easier.
Hm…I wish I were more productive and resourceful! One thing I do is that when I use plastic bags, I rinse them out and reuse them so I only have to buy new ones every year or so.
I use fabric from old shirts, jeans, pants, whatever, and use it to wrap presents with! It seems really weird, but it actually ends up being really cool looking.
I especially like to use old pj pants, because the tie can be used as a ribbon that already matches!
I find that i have to listen to music to be productive. Specifically the Rocky Horror Picture Show soundtrack! lol
I use my iron board for a lot more then just ironing, sometimes it’s more like a cupboard other times its a table!
Tine
Enrolling my 4 yr old in preschool has helped me be more productive. I get lots of errands run and chores around the house done while he’s at school!
List making lots of list..but then I have to remember where I put my lists…..
I do more with less by spending LESS money on consignment clothes! I consign my children’s clothes and then buy “new to them” clothes with the money I make from their old outfits. I get even more by shopping the sales at the consignment shop. A barely used Gymboree shirt for $2? Don’t mind if I do! ;)
i constantly go through my clothes and donate items I haven’t worn in 3 months. This helps with less laundry and makes for easier decisions when I’m dressing! It is my hope that others enjoy my hand-me-downs:)
I am more productive the busier I get! I tend to make lists so that I have something to cross off, which keeps me motivated!
As a 6th grade teacher I have learned that allowing my students to pass back papers, run errands to the front office or media center allows me to stay focused on teaching. The unexpected plus is my students feel empowered because they know that I trust them to complete the task in an appropriate manner.
I find that with big projects, I break them up into small term goals, and do them a day at a time so Im not rushing to finish by my deadline. I also take breaks and bake, draw, or exercise so I can keep from feeling I’ve been working all day.
We’re doing our own wedding – everything is DIY – dress, stationary – desserts – decorations – everything you can imagine for a wedding – I will probably be making. I think that qualifies as doing more with less money being put towards everything. Although I’m not sure because I don’t pay attention to the receipts when it comes to crafting. If I don’t look – when the fiance asks how much it costs I can be honest and say “I don’t know”.
I’m most productive when I make a good old fashion list of items I. Keep it simple keep it easy.
I find I’m more productive at cleaning when I’m on the phone with someone who is ranting! While I listen, my hands like to stay busy! It sounds silly, but it really works for me!
I found that getting my first dog made me much more productive. I had to start getting up at a set time every day, even weekends, and going on long walks at least once a day. Never varying my sleep schedule and getting daily exercise has made a huge positive change in my energy levels.
Good dog!
I do more with less by getting devices that have multiple functions, and try to get rid of ones that only do one thing. I love my alarm clock/dock/speaker/radio!
I left the workforce to be a full-time mom even though I was earning more than half of our household income at the time. I have a lot less in the material sense, but I have much more of what really counts: being present to hug and kiss my adorable boy all day long, make him three meals a day, watch him grow, learn and play, impromptu trips to the park, etc. I am able to do this because I scrimp and save, shop with coupons and sales, and just plain do without sometimes. It’s worth it.
I multi-task in the morning. I start a load of laundry while a heat up my curling iron and let my cereal start to soak in milk and run through the shower, then I can do lots of chores all at once without waiting.
I have found waiting until the last minute makes me very productive. You wouldn’t believe what you can accomplish in just one night HAHA though I try NOT to do this.
Love all the ideas that everyone has left on here, seriously going to have to use a few.
I found a great way to reuse the bottle warmers my sister was about to throw out, I use them to keep my bags of chocolate warm when decorating cake truffles or cookies! The low temp keeps the chocolate at a workable temperature without melting the bag or overheating the chocolate!
Binder clips can do more than just hold papers together. We use them for chip clips, to help keep cereal fresh, or when I need something held together while I sew. They are great!
At Michael’s in the dollar bins they sell 4/8in pads of paper with a couple magnets on them. These things save my butt. I make a menu every week on them and since it’s posted for the fam to see I am more inclined to stick to it. I make tons of lists on them and since they are posted I remember I made the lists!
I live in Hawaii and we have very small homes here. I dont even have a house…a townhouse. Given that with less space and no yard, I take my kids out and enjoy the outdoors everyday, even if they have been in school all day. Its free!
I am always looking for more ways to be productive and still spend time with my family. I like working on my crafty projects until they get to a certain point and then finishing them on the couch while I watch tv with the kids.
I place cake batter in a ziplock bag so that I can squeeze it into muffin tins without getting messy!
As an art teacher, I have found ways to use every scrap, every odd container, and every last drop! One particular tip: frosting cups make great containers for paintbrushes, leftover paint, and sorting beads and buttons.
I figure out ways to use things in ways they aren’t necessarily intended. For example when doing the laundry, I will sometimes use a towel or big shirt to transport the rest of my load. I lay the towel open, pile the clothes on top, and bundle the pile up with the towel. It saves space and plastic (from not having to buy extra laundry baskets).
I’m more productive now that several different bloggers gave me “permission” to buy a couple more sets of measuring spoons and cups.
I’m productive when I have a plan. A list, items to check off. it gets me moving!
I’m a teacher, so we are always looking for cost effective ways to do more with less. Styrofoam egg cartons work great for mixing paint then storing until next time. It’s also easy clean up.