Being organized plays a big part in the frugal lifestyle. Organization helps save time, thereby helping save money. Here are a few easy to implement ideas to help you be better organized this year.

1. Never pay a fine again for an overdue library book or video. Place a large calendar in a convenient place, such as on your desk; I keep mine on the side of my fridge. Then, write due dates on your calendar, along with appointments, etc. Check it every morning.

2. Keep a running grocery list in a handy spot in your kitchen. No more last-minute trips to the store for just one item!

3. Keep all your receipts in one spot, so when you need to return an item, you can find the receipt easily. For items like small appliances, tools, staple the receipt to the instruction book.

Keep receipts for car parts that carry a warranty in the glove box of the car.

4. Store items near where you use them. This makes sense in every room of the house. ex.- Don't store all your bathroom cleaning supplies under the kitchen sink--keep them in the bathroom!

5. If you don't love it or use it, it's just clutter. Gather up unwanted or unloved items and have a yard sale.

6. Have a spot near the door where you put your car keys, lunches, homework, etc.

7. Try to run all your errands for the week on one day. Plan your route so you don't backtrack. You'll save money on gas and also tons of time,not running to town every day!

8. Cooking meals is quicker in an organized kitchen-- keep your fridge organized and clean. Once a week, clear out leftovers--use them or lose them!

9. Make this your Rule of the House: If you get it out, you put it away!

Everyone who got where he is had to begin where he was. -Robert Louis Stevenson