Homekeeping 101: S.H.E. System Week One

Join me as I get back into the Sidetracked Home Executives
card file system for organizing your homekeeping & life :)
21 Essays about the SHE System:
organizedhome.c...
Supplies:
3X5 Card File Box
3X5 Index Cards:25 yellow, 25 blue, 25 pink,100 white
4 or more blank dividers
Jan-Dec dividers
1-31 dividers
A-Z dividers
you might want colored pens, stickers & washi tape if you want to
decorate your cards.
Blog:
GlitteringDixie.com
Facebook:
/ dixiedebutantes
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/ dixiedebutantes
Follow me on Instagram to see what I am up to:
/ dixiedebutantes
"Fan" mail:
125 S. State Road 7
Suite 104 #224
Wellington, FL 33414

[@jeanshimpeno45]

I use one inch binders to keep me organized. They take up very little room. I have a cleaning one , menu and grocery list one, medical, what ever you need ect. I typed up the room name and everything I clean in that room. I place them in a sheet proctor. I clean one room a day. You can use a dry erase marker to check off as you go. You can wipe it off when you are finished. I just tidy up the other rooms. I clean my shower while I am taking a shower. The toilet and sinks are cleaned daily. I make the bed as soon as i get out of it. I wash dry and put away the dishes after each meal. Clean your refrigerator the day you are going grocery shopping. You won’t over buy them. These are just good habits to get into and only take seconds to keep your home clean and you organized. This system really works for me. Also you need a home for everything. I downsized a lot as well. If you don’t use it then it needs to go.

[@donnagajewski5375]

Hi KellyAnn, I stumbled upon your blog while I was trying to find the S.H.E. system online because I CAN'T find my books! Haha! Which is WHY I need to get back on this system! 😆 I found this way back in the 80s as a new stay at home mom & followed it religiously and it WORKS! I know you know that too as a past S.H.E. But then I started working & raising my children & fell off it (a shame because I KNOW it would have made my life easier). Now I'm retiring all these years later and my house is an unorganized MESS! But because I know this system works, I also know I can conquer it too. I just have to start with baby steps too because I tend to get all these grandiose ideas but never follow through. I know your posts are from a couple of years ago & I will assume you've "slayed your dragon" and have joined the ranks of "RE-S.H.E.s", those of us that KNOW it works & have embraced it once again. 😊 I LOVED how I ALWAYS felt my house was clean & orderly. And I was guilt free by 10 am, free to do anything or go anywhere I wanted with no guilt, knowing my house was clean and my meals were planned etc. I want my retirement years to be comfortable, restful & happy. I know the S.H.E. system will get me there! Thanks. I will be following you regularly.

[@findingkellyann]

Donna Gajewski Thanks for commenting, sad to say I have been a hot mess lately. I need to recommit to my SHE routine, it helps everything run smoother! Follow me on Instagram @FindingKellyAnn, I’m more active there 🤗

[@antoniaizuebe7228]

I love this system. I hope more and more people get to know about this tried and true way to more peace in our homes

[@qtluvBilly3]

I am so happy you are making this series! I love FlyLady, but several years after discovering her, I read the SHE books. I started using their system and actually like it better. In multiple ways, there is so much flexibility using index cards. You never see systems like this anymore cause everything is electronic or in binders and planners. I actually like the "old-fashioned" cards. I still have a binder for storage usage. For operations, I prefer the cards.

[@jamieramos8079]

I have been looking into a way to "break back in" to S.H.E. thank u for this.... having 7 children and 3 on the way I SSSOOOO need my schedule back ....and peggy and pamper are so awesome and humble !I love them!

[@KatesFree]

Thumbs up for giving yourself a sticker!!! That is so relevant to me, you don't even know!

[@nana88812]

These books changed my life when I read it in "85. And stll does!

[@findingkellyann]

Mine too! This system always works for me. I need to get back to it in 2024

[@1972southpaw]

Thanks Kelly!! This is the motivation that I needed. Like you, I was a young Mom and now an "EmptyNester' at the age of 43 (hence the name) and I am going stir crazy. I think you nailed it on the head whenever you said having "outside schedules" forcing me to do stuff. Besides going to work, I am BORED. Without the kids here to "make" me get moving...I sit. I feel that I go to work, come home make dinner, coffee and lunches for the next day and then I get on Pinterest or YT and NOTHING else is getting accomplished. Even today, I am off for the Holiday (hubby got called into work) and I am looking at YT and Pinterest TRYING to get motivated. You posting this video was EXACTLY what the doctored ordered. Count me in!! :)

[@BoredorBananas]

Awesome! Crank up those tunes! I dance my house clean everyday. Just picture the babysitter in "honey, I shrunk the kids." Haha love it!!

[@findingkellyann]

That must be why your kitchen is clean, your bed is made and you are a size 4!

[@leadavis494]

I have all of the original books and was a big time home exec. I loved the system! And I have been sidetracked for about 10 years. Time to get back into it. I still have my cards! I hope you update often or at least let us know how you are doing. Thank you for sharing this!

[@PhenomenallyFlyDiva4]

Thanking the good Lord for you and this helpful, inspirational video! Going into my favorites' playlist IMMEDIATELY.

[@MariasMiscellany]

I work full-time but my husband works nights and sometimes I stay up meaning to get stuff done and don't get anything accomplished. I'm going to try to join you on this journey. I definitely need a new morning routine instead of just rushing to get ready and yelling at the kids to do the same. Thanks for this :-)

[@findingkellyann]

Mornings are so important! Sets the tone for the rest of the day. I always plan on getting so much done after 4 but I am usually just too tired. Hopefully getting my mornings off to a good start will help with that.

[@MoonlitBrenya]

I love this approach. I am taking bits and pieces from so many different people on how to get and stay organized, declutter, so on and so forth. I am going to make a note of that book and add it to my own wish list. I want to do the full list for each room, but I have a lot of things going on right now and I don't want to overwhelm myself. I am doing a serious declutter right now, and really have only gotten started. So what I am thinking I will do is, once I "finsh" a room, I am going to make said list, and incorporate that list into what I call my Dailies or Weeklies, as opposed to housework, I hate that word, lol. Great video, and I am looking forward to the rest of the series.

[@findingkellyann]

Great Job incorporating the system to your needs! That is why I like it so much, take what you can use and leave the rest! Good Luck with the declutter :)

[@MoonlitBrenya]

thanks, lol I need it.

[@judithgorham-nye4255]

Thanks for sharing this with us. I was "in the box" many years ago and now I'm definitely out of the box. Desperately need this series. Have enjoyed your other videos. Looking forward to this series.

[@findingkellyann]

I know there was a reason I saved my card file! I haven't used it since around 2000 (at least that is when the calendar inside is from) I am looking forward to a routine & a clean house LOL

[@shawner4640]

My hubby and I have separate beds as well. He needs to get up at 4am for work and I am the snoring culprit. Plus I toss and turn all night which does not make for a happy hubby. I think it is a smart solution to have separate beds. I know we are much happier this way. As for this plan I did this years ago as well and need to get back on it as well. I found my cards and will start going through them and making up new ones for this home. I plan on starting once vacations are over and have just been trying to get myself back into the mindset and motivated to start. I will be viewing your vlogs for that much needed motivation. Thank you for posting them. :)

[@rhiannonnicks715]

Shawne Roach ..I , myself...I snore too.. it's weird it's usually the hubby that snores. I have a sleep mask for my snoring

[@dianechoate2906]

Love this book and system. Used it and it helped a great deal with getting my baking and cooking and cleaning done. Love the system! GOOD girl!

[@kathleenfunk8163]

Great video and very inspiring! I followed the S.H.E. system when my boys were younger. Now I'm a single, empty-nester and don't keep up with the house as well as I would like (too many hobbies and social media!). Going to get back S.H. E. system so I can enjoy my other activities even more!

[@dianechoate2906]

Kathleen Funk me, too .

[@simplyraisingarrows7369]

New subscriber!!!! I tried fly lady I just couldn't stick to it. I am homeschooling my boys and I have a 16 year old in public school!

[@IslandTime79]

I too am an empty nester with the I've got all day syndrome. Looking forward to your series.

[@nataliemorelli7729]

I'm really excited for you to do this series! Your past home keeping videos really helped me with being a new stay at home wife/mom and gave me the confidence that I can do it and do it well :-) looking forward to future videos!

[@findingkellyann]

Natalie I'm sure you are doing just fine! I am so happy you found my channel and are going to follow along!

[@annab3745]

I feel as if you read my mind!!! My husband also works night shift and it's crazy! I teach kindergarten so in the summer I struggle. I'm so excited to try this...it doesn't seem as overwhelming as some programs that I've seen. Thank you so much for sharing! You're such a lovely and well spoken lady!

[@findingkellyann]

Anna B Thank you so much! I love this plan because you can customize it to your life. Good Luck! I would love to hear how it goes!

[@ChefRondaE]

These 2 ladies are from my hometown and I have the original SHE book (blue cover) & thw Get your act togetger. I used it on my old house and I LOVED IT!!!, and now in my new house I cant find the original box of cards I made so I just purchased all now cards and holder. (You know ill find it after I remake it all for the new place)

[@lisafarrow6840]

This series/system sounds awesome! The "I have all day" syndrome really hit home, so I'm on board and ready to establish a routine and schedule too! Thanks for the motivation :)

[@pinknleopard]

Thanks for sharing! I'm going to try this out! I'm always looking for ways to improve my homemaking & I respond well to having routine.

[@rebaseymour1810]

Cute Stickers...you’re in touch with your inner child 😉

[@lauralowrance7577]

Thank you for putting in perspective for me, I know I’ll be able to do this!

[@kyliejones7149]

I so need a schedule too. Looking foreword to this.

[@chjehi]

I got out my file box this week and was looking on you tube to see if the sidetracked sisters had a video or web site and I found your site. I did this also for years about 30 years ago!! I love this system and I did my file box when I moved into my current home about 10 years ago so it is all ready to go. I also am an empty nester but work full time and so my home is usually really organized and picked up but I love this system to know that eventually everything will be cleaned in due time! no more frantically deep cleaning in a fit! I saw your video a few minutes ago on the binder you made and then I saw this video of yours and I agree- I could never do a binder when this is so simple and nice I also saw a bunch of young gals being obsessed with an Erin Condren life planner and thought Oh wow this looks so expensive to purchase just to be organized. I also have the original Sidetracked Home Executive book, I did own the menu planning book they did and used it for a long time and I still have the Happiness File book which I want to revisit and redo my file box on that because, I just got it out and the cards in that are 15 years old or so!!! Need to update for sure- it is a fun book and you file quotes, goals, all personal info and family stuff - I loved doing it - just got away from it-- I will follow your channel and join you in your journey!!!

[@findingkellyann]

Thank you! It is such a great system. I read alCatch Up on the Kitchen and Happiness File. I do my menu planning like they do in the book (when I menu plan :( I agree on all that planner nonsense, I'm sure some use it as a scrapbook or journal. Welcome to my channel and thanks for connecting with me!

[@owlyouneedishealth]

So, I watched a video of yours from a while back and then purchased this book. I started reading through it and kind of got overwhelmed with how this system works even though it seemed pretty straightforward in that other video of yours I watched. I even skipped over this video when I saw it a few weeks ago (sorry! lol) but I came back to it and realize you are breaking it down and now I think I will give it a try even though I have some catching up to do :)

[@owlyouneedishealth]

To be clear, I watched a video of yours from a while back on this system (the way I wrote that up there is confusing). Anyway, thanks for the inspiration!

[@findingkellyann]

I'm so glad you are going to adapt this system to your needs. I find I just do better with a system in place.

[@nacole93]

Glad you are back!!! Love your channel

[@findingkellyann]

Thanks Heidi!

[@kathywehmeyer55]

If you ever run across the original pale blue book, SNATCH. IT. UP! The first part doesn't say much about the S.H.E. System but it is HILARIOUS! Pam & Peggy have such a wonder sense of humor, even your husband will want to read it just to see what your laughing about!

[@findingkellyann]

I actually own the original book. My mom had it when I was a teenager and when I married I read it, loved it and implemented the system. I have read all their books and loved them!

[@noelc2]

We had the original, and I bought the revised....the original had so many more stories- so funny! My mom used this as well, and as a genuine SHE it worked wonders for her.

[@pinknblonde86]

Thank u! I love this and u have no idea how much I need this please keep them coming thank you!

[@CammyHell]

You should have your husband get a sleep study - he may have sleep apnea and he may need a cpap machine which would stop his snoring. Also maybe try some earplugs 🥰

[@findingkellyann]

He has had a sleep study, no apnea. I do wear earplugs when we travel but they don't block out all the snoring. I am a very light sleeper :( And now, 5 years later, I am in menopause with all the hot flashes and night sweats, so I'm sure i would keep him up at night, uuuggghhh

[@amyhowell4000]

Hi. I love this idea. I have no routine to my house and i think that's why it looks the way it does. I"m not sure if i will be buying the books. Bit i thinking the idea of writing a list for every room is great. I will then write a daily list of things to do and cross them off as i go. I had to laugh with the smiley face stickers. So cute. Good luck with your organization xxx

[@findingkellyann]

No plan is definitely my problem. I was sick the first 2 days of the week so I got a little behind but I looked at the cards I missed doing and prioritized the most important jobs and then left the rest for the following week.

[@Ethan-qq6pf]

I am so excited for this series!! This is exactly what I need to stay motivated. I am motivated in my homeschooling because I am passionate about teaching and educating, but not so much in my home. Thank you for filming this :)

[@findingkellyann]

Good luck. I really had my kids do a lot of chores when we homeschooled because I just couldn't do it all.

[@Ethan-qq6pf]

I do too. My husband helps a lot also.

[@Ethan-qq6pf]

It's just too hard to do wverything by myself.

[@MimisMixedBag]

I'm going to try to find the book. I am so less organized and motivated since I left my full time career 6 years ago. Looking forward to your series.

[@findingkellyann]

I hope you enjoy it! I think the book was funny and I enjoyed their style. It is always nice to know others are doing the same thing and we can hold each other accountable :)

[@DanaCook60]

Just subscribed to your Channel. I am a retired 60 yo married mom to to wonderful adult children. I am suffering from Can't Have Anyone Over Syndrome. I have committed to do better. Your gift Will help I'm sure. I have a You Tube channel too. I do hauls, pocket letters & makeup videos.

[@cheryls2angelschicdonecheap]

Going to see if I can get this book. I will try and do this along with you. Looking forward to it I am 40yrs old with 4 children ages 16-8 and need to get organized. Thanks for sharing with us

[@findingkellyann]

I had made little card files for each of my kids when they were learning about chores, my daughter really enjoyed it my son tolerated it :)

[@cheryls2angelschicdonecheap]

Well I guess I would have 1 liking it and 3 no so lol I have 3 boys and 1 princess. lol

[@lisagage2163]

I mentioned to you on instagram that I had just ordered this book...I'm so excited that you made this video! :) I'm in the process of making my cards. Thanks for sharing, girl. :)

[@findingkellyann]

You go Lisa!

[@jpgaffney248]

yes, I did miss you. thanks for the nudge I need to get back on track. no kids at home & retired from a 36 yr full time job...a year ago! maybe it's really a kick in the butt not a nudge.

[@findingkellyann]

It's so hard to get it together when you have no set schedule.

[@maddiejoy7896]

I checked out this book at the library after seeing it on your instagram! New camera quality is looking great!

[@findingkellyann]

Thanks! I am really trying to learn how to best use my new toys!

[@cheykath]

Thank you for this! Are you still using this system? Great video series!

[@joanlantis4497]

i have a really bad case of empty nest syndrome and i'm very hopeful this system will help. thank you soooo much.

[@TheRealLydiaSenn]

My mom loves the Side Tracked Home Executives. I think I remember one of the books had a two diagrams one was a sloppy woman with a heavy purse and flip flops and one was a neatly dressed woman with a tiny clutch. I don't know why that stuck with me... I am the woman in flip flops.

[@findingkellyann]

There are all kind of cute illustrations like that in the books. I find it hard to believe you are the woman in flip flops, you've got it goin on!

[@TheRealLydiaSenn]

DixieDebutantes That's because I put on lipstick and comb my hair before I point a camera at myself... sometimes.

[@motherto3girls]

Your so funny, this video had me laughing all the way through

[@findingkellyann]

Thanks! That's me in real life! My tag line on my business cards is Southern Tradition with a Touch of Irrereverence ;)

[@Mouserjan0222]

The other book I have is Catch up on the Kitchen, I never hear anyone talk about that one

[@thebudgetbee9694]

I just bought that one from someone on Amazon! Jazzed to read it!

[@karenrich9092]

I have used this book for gathering and sorting my recipes. It was also great for making the master grocery list, which is now on my computer on an Excel spreadsheet. I would use the blank spaces to add special items as well as to use for my list of errands for the day. Then, you number them in the order to do them so there's no backtracking.

[@amiradeshon5501]

Great job ! Great advice. I'll try this book.

[@polyglotmona]

May I ask how long your morning routine takes you? Do you have tasks that you consider as must-do on a specific day after your morning routine? Thank you for reminding me that I need a schedule!

[@iowan1999]

Get your husband tested for sleep apnea. Severe snoring can be dangerous. Thank you for the video.

[@MustardSeedish]

I'm the worst offender of being a sidetracked home executive. I just reserved my book and looking forward to walking with you through this.

[@findingkellyann]

Welcome! I would love your insights and any ways you will be adapting the system for your own home.

[@LibbyWithnall]

Have you ever looked at Flylady.net Her system was based on SHE. It was a lifesaver for me when my girls were young and I realized I was pretty clueless at running a house while raising a family :-). Might buy the books you recommended though, as I usually find the best system is bits and pieces taken from various sources. But I too need to develop a new daily routine (now that my girls are in high school and I'm dealing with fibromyalgia).

[@findingkellyann]

Hi Libby. I tried following Fly Lady but I just couldn't get into it. I feel like she was "talking" to me like a child.

[@Tulsaannie]

Are you still around girl?

[@findingkellyann]

I post mostly on Instagram @FindingKellyAnn

[@rememberwhen...3483]

We have to be long lost sisters.. I am the same exact way. Thank you for being real.

[@ItsAmandasLife1]

I love this! I def am going to try and follow along

[@findingkellyann]

Im so happy to see you back! I sent you a little something, hope you received it!

[@ItsAmandasLife1]

Totally threw me off guard, made me cry, made me smile! It really made my day!

[@findingkellyann]

I'm so happy I could brighten your day!

[@karenrich9092]

I noticed you had a link to the 21 SHE essays from Cynthia Ewer, Organizer. Unfortunately, she has closed her site, but I have them myself. I bought the first 3 books as a homemaking gift to myself when I was first married: SHE From Pigpen to Paradise, Sidetracked Sisters Catching Up on the Kitchen, and The Happiness File.

[@findingkellyann]

Yes, I had them all as well!

[@shannondavidson1886]

I was hoping you would do something like this!

[@findingkellyann]

Well I hope you join in!

[@mjkzkn11]

Miss seeing you on KZbin! Hope you’re doing great!

[@marilynbreed6715]

I really wish that I could find their original newsletters. I owned them all and really miss playing with them.

[@findingkellyann]

I never had their newsletters :( I think there may be some youtube videos of their old TV interviews

[@frugalmomofmany]

I have heard that Young Living's Valor essential oil will stop snoring. Sneak a little on his big toe when he's asleep. 😊

[@jolenemiller4958]

There’s actually a first one that was copyrighted in 1977.

[@findingkellyann]

Yes I know. That is the one I started with

[@skyeangel61]

I wish there was something for the mom who works 40 or more hours a week. I can't get anything done till the weekend. I'm way to tired to start cleaning when I get home.

[@msbarron2162]

Your husband needs a CPAP machine. He should get a sleep study done. He's not getting enough oxygen if hes snoring.

[@rhiannonnicks715]

Ms Barron so true..I, myself have a sleep mask..it works wonders.

[@bondee5865]

Great information; the 'like' button appears to be removed.?

[@findingkellyann]

Thank you. It really is a great system.

[@dianashelton1371]

CPAP!

[@greengiant3421]

I am a new subscriber to your channel. Loved this video & will be checking out some more! 😉

[@findingkellyann]

Tammy welcome! I am so glad you found me I hope you enjoy!

[@racerx8335]

hell yeah

[@vivavaldez]

are you still practicing the S.H.E. program? I'm just reading the book now. Thanks for the supply list...reading it I realized I didn't order the A-Z dividers!

[@findingkellyann]

I haven’t been using it but I need to get back to it. I have been a hot mess 😳🤣😁

[@vivavaldez]

@@findingkellyann I can relate to that!! 😃

[@teresasnamesake4784]

Thank you for being honest about your day to day. I am looking for aids to help me battle procrastination. *Also I have a snoring husband ☺️

[@katelyndockum4223]

Where do you find the S.H.E. Book and cards?

[@findingkellyann]

I’ve had them for years but I believe you can get them on Amazon. Also try the library

[@FizzleFF]

Hello. Is FindingKellyAnn still around?

[@findingkellyann]

I'm on Instagram :)

[@Kate98755]

You just listed multiple symptoms of gluten intolerance, go gluten free for two months to clean your system , if you feel better you need to continue. It is inflaming your system, which is linked to diseases.

[@dianedeckelnick8842]

He should go to the doctor for a c-pap machine.

[@LocaOrrKai]

Now way! You do not look like your forty-five years young. You look about thirty years young.