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“Tiny wins, calmer rooms, and gentle resets for real-life homes.”

Gentle home organizing for real women, busy minds, and messy seasons of life.

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As a professional Realtor and mother of four, I have been helping buyers and sellers since 2006. I have successfully built my career upon a foundation of trust, communication and a strong commitment to excellence. I work hard to negotiate the best deal possible for my clients, and I strive to build a lasting relationship with those I represent, based on genuine courtesy and friendliness. My ability to quickly assess and find creative solutions to a wide range of technical issues has helped me to earn the trust of each client. It is my goal to provide you with exceptional service based on a core value of honesty, integrity and reliability. Please feel free to contact me for all of your real estate needs. It is always a pleasure to serve.
  • The Gentle January Reset

    The Gentle January Reset

    (No 10-Step Programs Required)

    This is going to be a good year.
    Not because you’re going to overhaul your entire house in January.
    Not because you’ll finally “get it all together.”

    But because this year, we’re doing things gently, intentionally, and in a way that actually sticks.

    If January has ever made you feel behind before you even start—this post is for you.

    Why January Resets Feel So Heavy

    January has a reputation.
    Fresh start. Clean slate. New habits. Big goals.

    But real life usually looks like:

    • Low energy
    • Short daylight
    • Full closets
    • Half-used planners
    • A home still recovering from the holidays

    Trying to force a dramatic reset right now often backfires. You burn out. You quit. You feel like you failed—when the system was the problem, not you.

    The Gentle January Reset exists to change that.

    What “Gentle” Actually Means Here

    Gentle does not mean lazy.
    Gentle means sustainable.

    A gentle reset:

    • Works with winter energy, not against it
    • Focuses on relief, not perfection
    • Prioritizes flow over aesthetics
    • Leaves breathing room

    Think: lighter, calmer, easier—not spotless or Pinterest-ready.

    The Only Goal for January

    Here it is. Just one:

    Make your home easier to live in.

    That’s it.

    Not prettier.
    Not bigger.
    Not more minimal.

    Just easier.

    If a space already works? Leave it alone.
    If something annoys you every day? That’s where we start.

    Step 1: Reset One Daily Friction Point

    Instead of picking a whole room, pick one moment that feels annoying or heavy.

    Examples:

    • Shoes piling up by the door
    • Mail landing everywhere
    • Counters filling up overnight
    • Can’t find what you need in the morning

    Fix that—not everything.

    Ask yourself:

    • What slows me down daily?
    • What do I sigh about the most?
    • What feels heavier than it should?

    That’s your January reset spot.

    Step 2: Remove Before You Organize (Always)

    Before bins.
    Before labels.
    Before systems.

    Remove first.

    You don’t need to make decisions about everything—just the obvious no’s:

    • Trash
    • Duplicates
    • Items that belong somewhere else
    • Things you already know you don’t want

    This step alone often solves half the problem.

    Step 3: Create One Simple Home for Things

    January is not the time for complicated systems.

    Use what you already have:

    • A basket
    • A drawer
    • A tray
    • A hook

    The rule:

    If it’s easy to put away, it will get put away.

    If you have to open lids, stack things, or move items to reach it—your system will fail. That’s not a character flaw. It’s design.

    Step 4: Reset in Short Bursts

    Winter energy likes short wins.

    Try:

    • 10 minutes
    • One drawer
    • One surface
    • One category

    Stop before you’re tired.
    Stopping early builds trust with yourself—and makes it easier to come back tomorrow.

    What We’re Not Doing in January

    Let’s be clear:

    ❌ No full-house declutters
    ❌ No 12-week transformations
    ❌ No guilt for unfinished projects
    ❌ No pressure to “catch up”

    January is about stabilizing, not optimizing.

    Gentle January Reset Ideas (Pick One)

    If you want a starting point, choose one that matches your energy:

    Low Energy

    • Clear one surface
    • Empty one bag
    • Reset tomorrow’s outfit area

    Medium Energy

    • Entryway refresh
    • Bathroom counter reset
    • Kitchen sink + dish zone

    High Energy (Rare but Welcome)

    • One small closet
    • Pantry shelf reset
    • Laundry station tweak

    You only need one win.

    The Secret to Keeping It Going

    Consistency doesn’t come from motivation.
    It comes from relief.

    When your home gives something back—time, calm, ease—you’ll naturally want to maintain it.

    That’s why we focus on:

    • Daily-use spaces
    • Frequent pain points
    • Small, repeatable resets

    Not magazine spreads.

    A Simple January Reset Checklist

    Use this as a guide, not a to-do list:

    •  Choose one friction point
    •  Remove the obvious no’s
    •  Create a simple home
    •  Stop early
    •  Notice how it feels
    •  Repeat when ready

    That’s it.

    This Is the Year You Stop Starting Over

    You don’t need a new personality.
    You don’t need more discipline.
    You don’t need a color-coded system to be “good at organizing.”

    You need systems that match your real life.

    This year, we’re building a home that supports you—quietly, consistently, kindly.

    And January?
    January is just the beginning.

    💛 Ready for the Next Gentle Step?

    If you’d like a little structure without overwhelm, join The Weekly Home Reset—one small focus, one calm win at a time.

    Or bookmark this post and come back whenever you need permission to slow down.

    This is going to be a great year.

    Leave a comment

  • HOMe Tiny Wins ClubPaid Newsletter – January 2026Issue No. 02 – Entryway Reset for Real Life Winter

    Subscribe to continue reading

    Become a paid subscriber to get access to the rest of this post and other exclusive content.

  • New Year Ready: 3 Tiny Tasks, Big Relief

    New Year Ready: 3 Tiny Tasks, Big Relief

    The days after Christmas have a special hush. Lights are still twinkling, but routines are wobbly, the fridge is odd, and every surface is catching stray ribbon. This is the perfect time for a gentle reset—not a huge clean, just three light lifts that make January feel easy.

    You’ll do three spaces, 20 minutes each:

    1. Entry Launchpad
    2. Fridge & Food
    3. Laundry & Linens

    Set a timer, turn on a playlist, and let “good enough” count.

    Why these three?

    • Entry is the gatekeeper. When it’s clear, the mess stops migrating.
    • Fridge controls how your mornings feel (and what you eat first).
    • Laundry & Linens resets comfort—fresh towels and sheets = instant win.

    None of this is perfection. It’s a launchpad for the new year.

    Win #1: Entry Launchpad (20 minutes)

    Goal: clear the walkway and prep for real life to resume.

    Do this:

    1. Put one medium tote by the door. It becomes your Returns/Exchanges spot for the week.
    2. Sort fast: Keep by the door (coats, boots), Take elsewhere (gifts, craft supplies), Trash/Recycle.
    3. Add a donation bag right now—clip it to a hook or tuck it in the tote.
    4. Create a tiny everyday tray: keys, wallet, one pen, scissors, tape.
    5. Sweep/vac the entry mat and call it done.

    Pro tip: If you’ve already set up a Returns Station, just refresh it—empty the tray, add any gift receipts, and schedule one errand loop.

    Win #2: Fridge & Food (20 minutes)

    Goal: make breakfast and snacks easy again.

    Do this:

    1. Pull just one shelf + door bin. Toss expired dips and mystery leftovers.
    2. Group fresh starts at eye level: eggs, yogurt, berries or clementines, greens.
    3. Make a “Eat-First” bin (leftovers you will finish by tomorrow).
    4. Fill a water pitcher. Put tomorrow’s lunch basics together.
    5. Wipe the shelf, close the door, and stop there—you don’t need the whole fridge today.

    Pro tip: Bag up holiday sweets you want gone and set them by the coffee station for one last share tomorrow—then done.

    Win #3: Laundry & Linens (20 minutes)

    Goal: freshen touchpoints you’ll feel all week.

    Do this:

    1. Start one household load: towels or sheets (fastest visible refresh).
    2. While it runs, fold the clean pile in the basket—only what’s there.
    3. Replace one bed’s sheets (yours or the guest room).
    4. Restock the bathroom: two fresh towels per person + extra hand towel.
    5. Put a small “Missing Socks” bag on the laundry shelf so strays don’t roam.

    Pro tip: If energy is low, swap steps 2–4 for a 10-minute “hang & reset”: hang coats, return laundry to rooms, toss trash. Movement counts.

    Real-Life Mini Scenarios

    Small apartment, no entry closet
    Use a narrow basket under a bench. Roll scarves into a bowl. Boots on a tray. Returns go into a tote beside the door—errand-ready.

    Busy family + travel laundry
    Do one load a day this week: towels, darks, lights, bedding, delicates. A simple loop keeps Mount Laundry from rebuilding.

    ADHD / low-spoons week
    Use the two-song rule per space. When the music stops, you stop. Leave tools visible (cleaning caddy under the sink, not buried in a closet).

    What NOT to do this week

    • Don’t empty every closet. Pick launchpad tasks only.
    • Don’t reorganize gift wrap right now. Box it, label “Sort in January,” move on.
    • Don’t keep returns in five places. One tote by the door wins.

    Make January Mornings Soft

    Tiny upgrades that pay off:

    • A lamp on the kitchen counter for early light.
    • A small bowl of grab-first fruit where you see it.
    • A “tomorrow tray” by the entry (keys, badge, water bottle, lip balm).
    • Clean pillowcases tonight—you’ll sleep better.

    Troubleshooting

    “I ran out of time.”
    Do one space per day instead. Entry today, fridge tomorrow, linens the next.

    “My family keeps undoing it.”
    Add a 1-minute evening sweep: shoes in bin, keys on tray, mugs to sink. Seventy percent done is still done.

    “Our fridge is overflowing.”
    Make two “Eat-First” bins (savory & sweet). Label with tape and a marker. Easy decision = actual follow-through.

    Simple Checklist (screenshot or print)

    Entry (20)

    • ☐ Returns tote set
    • ☐ Donation bag clipped
    • ☐ Keys/scissors/pen on tray
    • ☐ Walkway cleared + mat swept

    Fridge (20)

    • ☐ One shelf + door bin sorted
    • ☐ Eat-First bin made
    • ☐ Breakfast basics grouped
    • ☐ Water pitcher filled

    Laundry & Linens (20)

    • ☐ One load started (towels or sheets)
    • ☐ One bed refreshed
    • ☐ Basket folded or put away
    • ☐ Spare hand towel set

    Tape this inside a cupboard or add it to your phone notes so you’ll actually use it.

    Gentle pep talk

    You don’t need a perfect home to start a fresh year. You need a clear path, an easy fridge, and soft towels. Do these little resets now, and January will feel welcoming when it arrives.

    Share a win in the comments below

    Leave a comment

  • Close the Holiday Loop: Set Up a Returns & Receipts Station (Done in 7 Days)

    Close the Holiday Loop: Set Up a Returns & Receipts Station (Done in 7 Days)

    The holidays were fun—and a little chaotic. Before the piles of boxes, tags, and receipts swallow your entryway, let’s close the loop with a simple system: a Returns & Receipts Station. It lives by the door, works for every household, and helps you finish the season without stress (or lost money).

    This is not a marathon. It’s a one-bin setup and a short, 7-day plan you can start tonight.

    Why a Returns & Receipts Station?

    • Saves money: You actually return what doesn’t fit or isn’t needed—on time.
    • Clears space fast: Boxes and bags leave the house instead of camping by the sofa.
    • Lowers mental load: Everything for returns lives in one place. No hunting.

    Pair it with your nightly tidy and you’ll feel the home get lighter—fast. For easy mornings, see 5-Minute Morning Reset. For entry control, peek at Laundry & Drop-Zone Setup. And when you’re ready to reset kitchen surfaces, try the Kitchen Reset Guide.

    What You Need (one tote, five simple pieces)

    Park a medium tote or bin near your main door. Add:

    1. Flat tray (for today’s items to process)
    2. Folder: Returns (store receipts + printed labels)
    3. Folder: Exchanges (items that need an in-store swap or size change)
    4. Folder: Warranty/Keep (warranties, manuals, gift receipts you’re keeping)
    5. Pouch with: tape, scissors, pen, sticky notes, small roll of paper tape

    Optional add-ons: a mini scale for mailing, a few padded envelopes, and one donation bag clipped to the tote’s side.

    15-Minute Setup (tonight)

    1. Put the tote by the door you actually use.
    2. Label the three folders and the pouch.
    3. Sweep the house once: boxes, gifts to return, wrong sizes, duplicate toys, gift receipts, all into the tote.
    4. Drop anything you already know you’ll donate into the donation bag.

    That’s it. Station ready.

    The 7-Day “Close the Loop” Plan

    Day 1 — Gather & Sort (10–20 min)

    • Everything questionable goes into the tray.
    • Match items with receipts/gift receipts and put those into Returns or Exchanges.
    • No receipt? Add a sticky that says “No receipt—ask for store credit.”

    Day 2 — Easy Online Returns (15–30 min)

    • Start with the stores that email you a label.
    • Print or create a mobile QR code return if offered.
    • Pack, tape, and put boxes in your car or by the door for tomorrow’s drop.

    Day 3 — Mail & Drop-Off (errand loop)

    • One trip: parcel drop, Amazon/UPS counter, and any in-store returns you can finish in minutes.
    • Script to save time:“Hi! I’m returning these with the app code. Store credit is fine if a refund isn’t possible.”

    Day 4 — Exchanges (20 min)

    • Try-on / test items quickly. Keep only what you love and will use.
    • Put exchange items + sizes needed in a bag inside the tote so you can grab and go.

    Day 5 — Warranties & Manuals (10–15 min)

    • Move keepers into Warranty/Keep.
    • Snap a photo of serial numbers and drop into a phone album called “Warranties.”
    • Recycle extras you don’t need (most manuals are online).

    Day 6 — Donation Run (10–20 min)

    • Toss duplicates, “nice but not us,” and toy overflow into the donation bag.
    • Put the bag in the car and drop it during any errand today.

    Day 7 — Reset & Celebrate (10 min)

    • Clear the tray.
    • File the last receipts.
    • Collapse or recycle empty boxes.
    • Put the tote away until next year—or keep it as your permanent Returns Station for everyday life.

    Real-Life Mini Scenarios

    Small apartment, no car

    • Use a collapsible tote and schedule one carrier pickup (USPS/UPS) during a work-from-home day.
    • Save padded mailers from deliveries to reuse.

    Busy family with three sizes to return

    • Keep a sizing card in the pouch (family members + current sizes).
    • Do exchanges at the nearest store only—skip hunting for “perfect.”

    ADHD / low-energy week

    • Stick to one task per day only.
    • Make a 5-minute rule: when the timer ends, you’re done.

    What Goes Where (quick guide)

    • Returns: wrong size, duplicate, not our style, damaged on arrival
    • Exchanges: same item, different size/color
    • Warranty/Keep: electronics, appliances, outdoor gear, batteries
    • Donate: usable items with no receipt or not worth the drive
    • Recycle: flattened boxes, paper, plastic film (if accepted)

    Common Snags (and easy fixes)

    • “I missed the window.” Put it in Donate and move on; the space is worth more than the guilt.
    • “No printer.” Choose QR-code returns—most stores scan your phone and print the label there.
    • “I always forget the tote.” Hang your car keys on the tote handle the night before.

    Simple Checklist (screenshot this)

    Setup

    • ☐ Tote by the main door
    • ☐ Folders: Returns / Exchanges / Warranty-Keep
    • ☐ Pouch stocked (tape, scissors, pen, notes)
    • ☐ Donation bag clipped to tote

    Daily (7-Day plan)

    • ☐ Day 1: Gather & sort
    • ☐ Day 2: Online returns + print/QR
    • ☐ Day 3: Mail/drop-off loop
    • ☐ Day 4: Exchanges
    • ☐ Day 5: Warranties & manuals
    • ☐ Day 6: Donation run
    • ☐ Day 7: Reset & celebrate

    Gentle Pep Talk

    You don’t need perfect systems—just a station that catches the chaos and a short plan that finishes it. One week from now, your entry is clear, the boxes are gone, and your bank account thanks you.

  • Quick question: which holiday zone is driving you the most crazy right now?

    Quick question: which holiday zone is driving you the most crazy right now?

    1. Entryway (shoes, coats, packages)
    2. Kitchen (treats, dishes, clutter)
    3. Living room (decor + “where do I put this?”)
    4. Gift wrap / bags / tape chaos

    I wrote a post with what’s trending in holiday organization and how to copy the wins without doing a full-blown overhaul.

    👉 Here it is: Happy Organized Me

    If you comment 1, 2, 3, or 4, I’ll reply with a tiny 10-minute reset you can do today.

    Leave a comment

  • The Holiday Exit Plan: Pack Away in 90 Minutes (and Love Unboxing Next Year)

    The Holiday Exit Plan: Pack Away in 90 Minutes (and Love Unboxing Next Year)

    Tiny wins now = calmer you next December. This is my zero-overwhelm system for packing décor fast, protecting the pretty things, and making January feel lighter.

    Why this works

    • Time-boxed: one focused 90-minute session (or 3×30 minutes).
    • Fewer decisions: same order, same labels, every year.
    • Open-first box: you start next season with a win, not a dig.

    The 5-Zone Pack-Away

    Set five containers on one table or floor zone:

    1. Open-First Box – the “start the season” kit: extension cords, light clips, command hooks, tree stand hardware, timer, scissors, tape, 2 rolls of neutral wrap, a Sharpie.
    2. Ornaments – wrapped by type (glass, sentimental, kid-made) in small boxes within the big bin.
    3. Lights + Tech – each strand wrapped around cardboard, one strand = one zip bag; remote batteries stored separately.
    4. Textiles + Soft Décor – stockings, tree skirt, table runners, pillows.
    5. Wreaths + Bulky – wreaths in clear bags, garland coiled, large figurals.

    Mantra: Pack by category, not by room.

    Step-by-step (90 minutes)

    Minutes 0–10: Stage + sort

    • Put the five containers out. Pull everything off surfaces into one staging area.

    Minutes 10–35: Ornaments

    • Wrap high-risk items first (glass, heirlooms) with tissue or coffee filters.
    • One box = one label (e.g., “Glass—Silver/White”). Place box into the Ornaments bin.

    Minutes 35–50: Lights + tech

    • Wrap each strand around a cardboard “H”; tuck ends into the notch.
    • Bag with a slip that says where they hang (e.g., “Mantel, 9 ft”). Into the Lights bin.

    Minutes 50–70: Textiles

    • Launder runners + stockings now so they’re fresh next year.
    • Fold and stack by size; compress bags only if fully dry.

    Minutes 70–85: Wreaths + bulky

    • Bag wreaths; coil garland; secure with soft ties.
    • Place the “Open-First Box” on top of everything else.

    Minutes 85–90: Labels + done

    • Add a large label to each bin + a small “Box #__ of __” sticker.

    Labeling that makes next year easy

    • Use Avery 5160 (or painter’s tape) and write like this:
      • HOLIDAY — ORNAMENTS — Glass (Silver/White)
      • HOLIDAY — LIGHTS — Mantel + 2 Windows
      • HOLIDAY — TEXTILES — Stockings/Tree Skirt
      • HOLIDAY — WREATHS — 24" Front Door
      • HOLIDAY — OPEN-FIRST — Hooks/Clips/Timer/Scissors

    Want QR labels? I can generate a DIY set that jumps to a pre-filled row in your Google Sheet inventory. Say the word and I’ll attach the printable + sheet template.

    Micro-declutter rules (so January is lighter)

    • Repair or release: anything broken goes to a “Fix by Jan 15” bag; if not fixed, it’s gone.
    • Half-used candles: consolidate to one jar or toss.
    • Decor math: if it didn’t go up this year, it earns a donation tag.

    The Open-First Box (your future self will cheer)

    • Timer, remote batteries, command hooks/strips, light clips
    • Extension cords, mini zip ties, twist-ties
    • Scissors, tape, Sharpie, 10 spare ornament hooks
    • 1 neutral table runner + 1 strand of working lights (for an instant start)

    ADHD-friendly tweaks

    • Use a playlist that ends at ~90 minutes—no clock-watching.
    • Put a bright sticky on anything that needs attention next year (“Replace mantel lights”).
    • Take one photo of your tree/mantel—tape a printout inside the Open-First Box.

    Troubleshooting (quick)

    • Tangled lights: if a strand tangles twice, cut your losses. Replace it next year; note it on the sticky.
    • Glitter everywhere: slide glitter items into clear garment bags.
    • Heavy bins: switch to more, smaller bins. Your back will thank you.

    CTA — Join the Weekly Home Reset

    Want calm systems that actually stick? Join the Happy Organized Me Newsletter for weekly tiny wins and pretty printables. January’s issue includes Pack-Away Labels + an Inventory Sheet to make next year even easier.
    Subscribe now and get the download.

    Nows your time to shine!

    What goes in your Open-First Box?

    Which bin filled up fastest for you—Ornaments or Lights?

    What will you donate so next year is lighter?

    Share in the comments below, I can hardly wait to hear your amazing answers.

    Leave a comment

  • If your holiday “organization” is starting to look like piles with seasonal excuses… you’re not failing. You just need the right tiny win.

    If your holiday “organization” is starting to look like piles with seasonal excuses… you’re not failing. You just need the right tiny win.

    I pulled together what’s actually trending right now (the stuff real homes are doing, not Pinterest-perfect homes) + how to steal the wins in under 15 minutes.

    👉 Read it here: HappyOrganizedMe

    And if you want me to send you one tiny reset each week (free), hop on the Weekly Home Reset list here: Weekly Home Reset link 💛

  • 🌲☕ Welcome to Your HOMe Tiny Wins Club (December Project Inside!)

    🌲☕ Welcome to Your HOMe Tiny Wins Club (December Project Inside!)

    December – Newsletter

    Hints, tiny wins, and a complete step-by-step project to create a cozy hot drink station—supply list included

    Hey friend—

    Welcome to the very first paid HOMe newsletter. 🎉

    This is where we slow things down, pick one tiny-but-mighty project, and walk it all the way from “ugh, that corner” to “look what I made!” ☕️

    For December, we’re going cozy, welcoming, and fun:

    Project of the Month:
    A simple, beautiful Hot Cocoa + Tea Station that makes your kitchen feel like a little café.

    You’ll get:

    • Quick hints & tiny wins you can use anywhere
    • A full supply list (so you know exactly what you need)
    • Step-by-step instructions from blank counter to styled station
    • A clear picture of what “done” looks like (plus a photo prompt you can use)

    Ready?

    Tiny Wins & Hints for December

    Use these anywhere in your home this month, not just in the project space:

    1. One-tray rule:
      If it doesn’t fit on the tray, it doesn’t live there. Trays create instant boundaries and stop spread.
    2. Container first, then stuff:
      Choose the bin, basket, or jar first—then decide what earns a spot. It keeps the space from overfilling.
    3. Visible = used. Hidden = forgotten.
      Put your most-used items in clear view and your “fun extras” just a little out of the way.
    4. Think “experience,” not just storage.
      Ask: How do I want this to feel when I walk up to it? Cozy? Clean? Minimal? Let that guide your choices.
    5. Timer magic:
      For any micro-project, set a 15–20 minute timer. Decide that when the timer ends, you either stop or only finish the step you’re on.

    Project of the Month: Cozy Hot Cocoa + Tea Station

    Project Snapshot

    Goal: Create a small, organized hot drink station that makes evenings and mornings feel special, not chaotic.

    Where:

    • A corner of your kitchen counter
    • A sideboard or buffet in the dining room
    • A little cart if you have one

    Time estimate:

    • 45–60 minutes total (or two 25-minute sessions)

    Vibe: Cozy, simple, welcoming. Think: “I can actually keep this up.”

    Supply Checklist (Everything You’ll Need)

    Use what you already have first. Then fill in gaps with simple, affordable pieces.

    Surfaces & Bases

    • 1 medium tray or wood/metal board (approx. 12″–18″ wide)
    • Optional: small runner or placemat under the tray

    Containers

    • 2–4 jars or canisters with lids (for cocoa, tea, sugar, toppings)
    • 1 small basket or shallow bin (for packets, syrups, or honey)
    • 1 mug rack or space for 4–6 favorite mugs

    Tools

    • 1 small spoon rest or tiny dish
    • 2–3 teaspoons for stirring
    • Optional: small electric kettle or spot near your existing kettle/coffee maker

    Ingredients & Goodies

    • Hot cocoa mix or cocoa tin
    • Assorted tea bags (or your favorite loose-leaf tea in a jar)
    • Sugar, honey, or sweetener of choice
    • Marshmallows, peppermint sticks, cinnamon sticks, or flavored syrups (choose 1–3 favorites)

    Styling & Extras (Optional but fun)

    • A tiny plant or sprig of greenery
    • A postcard-sized “Cozy Drinks” label or simple handwritten tag
    • 1–2 small seasonal decor pieces (tiny house, tree, candle—nothing too tall)

    Step-by-Step: From Blank Counter to Finished Station

    Step 1: Clear the Zone (10–15 minutes)

    1. Pick your spot.
    2. Remove everything that’s currently there.
    3. Toss obvious trash and relocate anything that clearly belongs somewhere else.
    4. Give the surface a good wipe so you’re starting fresh.

    Tiny win: pause and enjoy how good the empty space looks. Your brain loves this.

    Step 2: Gather & Edit (10–15 minutes)

    1. Walk your kitchen and gather:
      • All hot cocoa mixes
      • Tea boxes or tins
      • Sweeteners
      • Mugs you actually love using
    2. Put them all on a nearby table or counter.
    3. Edit:
      • Toss anything expired or that no one drinks.
      • Limit mugs to a small, curated set (4–6 is perfect).
      • Choose just a few toppings/syrups you’ll actually use.

    This is your “menu”. Too many choices = clutter.

    Step 3: Contain & Assign Homes (10–15 minutes)

    Now we give everything a place.

    1. Put your tray or board on the clean surface.
    2. Start with the tallest items in the back:
      • Cocoa tin
      • Tea jar
      • Sweetener jar
    3. Add a basket or shallow bin for packets (tea bags, cocoa packets, sweetener).
    4. Place your mugs:
      • On a little stand or rack or
      • In a neat row beside or just in front of the tray.
    5. Add your stir spoons in a small cup or jar, plus a spoon rest.

    Think: zones on the tray

    • Left: bases (cocoa, tea)
    • Center: sweeteners & toppings
    • Right: mugs & spoons

    Step 4: Style & Finish (10–15 minutes)

    Here’s where it feels fun and fresh instead of random.

    1. Add one small greenery element—a tiny plant, sprig of pine, or faux leaf.
    2. Tuck in one or two simple seasonal decor pieces (not six 😉).
    3. Make a tiny label or sign:
      • “Cozy Drink Station”
      • “Cocoa & Tea Bar”
      • Or just “Warm Up Here”
      You can handwrite it on a tag, use a spare place card, or print a simple label in your HOMe colors.
    4. Step back and look:
      • Can you easily reach everything?
      • Does anything feel crowded?
      • Remove one thing if it feels too busy.

    Rule of thumb: If your eye doesn’t know where to rest, remove one item.

    What “Done” Looks Like

    When you’re finished, your Cozy Drink Station should feel:

    • Clear: No random junk, mail, or gadgets mixed in
    • Simple: A small number of well-chosen items, not a whole pantry
    • Inviting: You can walk up, make a drink, and put everything back in under 2 minutes

    Image idea for your newsletter and blog:
    A warmly lit kitchen corner with a wooden tray on the counter. On the tray: a jar of cocoa, a jar of tea bags, a small basket with marshmallows and peppermint sticks, a honey jar, and a couple of simple white mugs. A tiny plant and a handwritten tag that says “Cozy Drinks” sit to the side. The background is calm—no clutter, just a clean backsplash and maybe a kettle nearby.

    You can:

    • Take a real photo of your own finished station (best option!) or
    • Recreate this look using a styled stock photo or AI-generated image based on that description.

    Use this as the hero image at the top of the email and on your site so paid subscribers see the “after” right away.

    Keep It Going: How to Maintain Your Station

    • Do a 30-second reset each night:
      • Put packets back in the basket
      • Return spoons to their cup
      • Toss any trash
    • Once a week:
      • Wipe the tray
      • Refill jars
      • Swap out a seasonal decor piece if you like

    If it ever starts feeling cluttered, remove one item. Your station should never feel like another chore.

    With you in the cozy tiny wins,
    Deseret
    Happy Organized Me

    P.S. When you finish your hot cocoa station, snap a quick photo and reply to this email—I’d love to see your version. If you’re comfortable, I may ask to feature a few (with permission) in a future issue to inspire other HOMe friends.

    If you’d like next, I can:

    • Turn the Project of the Month section into a printable 1-page project guide, or
    • Help you write a short teaser post for your free blog that points people toward this paid newsletter issue.

    Start here: A Gentle Tune-Up for a Calmer Home

    Get the free email resets: Join the Weekly Home Reset

  • What’s Trending in Holiday Organization (and How to Steal the Wins)

    What’s Trending in Holiday Organization (and How to Steal the Wins)

    If December has you juggling packages, ribbon, and houseguests, you’re not alone. Good news: this year’s holiday-organization trends are all about doing less, labeling smarter, and storing better. Below are the top ideas showing up across magazines, tests, and pro tips—plus simple ways to use them tonight.

    Want tiny weekly wins like this? Join my free Weekly Home Reset emails → [Join the Weekly Home Reset]

    1) Gift-Wrap Stations Go Mobile + Minimal

    Dedicated wrapping closets are pretty, but the trend that actually sticks is a portable tote/cart and fewer choices (think: one neutral paper, one kid-fun, one elegant). Reviewers and testers also love slim under-bed or zip cases that keep rolls tidy between sessions. The Spruce

    Try this tonight

    • Load a small caddy: scissors, tape, pens, tags, twine, mini trash bag.
    • Limit to 3 papers so you finish faster and clean up in a minute.
    • Park the tote by the tree; put it away after each session.

    2) QR Labels for Decor Totes (Know What’s in Every Bin)

    A fast-growing, real-life trend: QR-coded labels and inventory apps so you can scan a bin and see exactly what’s inside—no opening, no guessing. Options range from ready-made labels with companion apps to DIY lists that generate your own QR codes. totescan.com+2Smart Labels+2

    Try this tonight

    • Pick one bin (ornaments). List contents in an app or sheet, add a QR label, and stick it on the lid. Do one bin a night—done by New Year’s.

    3) Eco-Friendly Wrapping (Furoshiki + Recyclable Paper)

    Sustainable wrapping keeps rising: recyclable paper, paper tape, and cloth wraps (furoshiki) are everywhere this season. They’re pretty, reusable, and kinder to the bin day after the holiday. The Guardian+1

    Try this tonight

    • Swap plastic tape for paper tape.
    • Keep a few square cloths on hand for odd-shaped gifts—tie and go.

    4) Micro-Decor in the Kitchen (but Keep It Functional)

    Small, cabinet wreaths and mini touches in the kitchen are trending—sweet, fast, and renter-friendly. The key: decorate above the work zone and keep counters clear so your nightly reset still flows. Better Homes & Gardens

    Try this tonight

    • One tiny wreath on upper cabinets away from the stove.
    • A single lamp or mini tree in a back corner—clear counters win mornings.

    5) Pro-Approved Storage (and What Actually Tested Well)

    Round-ups this year focus on purpose-built containers for trees, ornaments, lights, and wrap—tested for durability and ease so you’re not rebuilding boxes next year. Real Simple and The Spruce both published updates and hands-on tests. Real Simple+1

    Try this tonight

    • Choose one category to upgrade (lights or ornaments). Buy once; label once; relax next year.

    6) The 10-Minute Declutter (Still Going Strong)

    Editors are doubling down on quick wins—10-minute tidy spots (entry, counters, junk drawer) that you can finish between events. It’s the perfect pair for a nightly “closing shift.” Better Homes & Gardens

    Try this tonight

    • Two songs: entry then counters. When the timer stops, you’re done.

    7) Plan the Post-Holiday Reset (With Donation Reality Checks)

    Post-holiday guides recommend a short list for undecorating and focused decluttering (kids’ toys, seasonal outfits, extra baking tools). Also trending: a reminder that some donation centers won’t take used seasonal décor right after the holidays—check first so you don’t drive it back home. Real Simple+1

    Try this tonight

    • Make a “January 6” note: lights → ornaments → wreaths → linens, in that order.
    • Keep a “review” box for décor to reassess next year, not tomorrow.

    Real-Life Mini Scenarios

    Small Apartment, No Closet

    • Rolling cart + 3-paper rule + under-bed wrap case. QR-label two bins only: “Tree & Lights,” “Ornaments & Hooks.”

    Busy Family, Pile-Prone Entry

    • Hooks at kid height, shoe bin per person, returns tote by the door. Nightly 10-minute reset keeps the walkway clear.

    Eco-Curious Gift Giver

    • Brown craft paper, paper tape, and two cloth squares in a tote. Tag with twine and a sprig—done.

    One-Hour Holiday Organization Sprint

    1. Entry (10 min): Packages to one landing spot; boxes broken down; keys in tray; coats on hooks.
    2. Kitchen (15 min): Dishwasher on; wipe counters/stove; stage morning mugs/bowls.
    3. Wrap Zone (15 min): Load tote; pick your 3 papers; recycle scraps.
    4. Storage (10 min): QR-label a single bin; update list.
    5. Plan (10 min): Add “Undecorate Order” + “Donation Check” to your calendar.

    Tape this to a cupboard or save it as a phone note.

    Start here: A Gentle Tune-Up for a Calmer Home

    Get the free email resets: Join the Weekly Home Reset

  • A Gentle Tune-Up for a Calmer Home

    A Gentle Tune-Up for a Calmer Home

    We’re mid-December—packages, glitter, guests, and good chaos. If you feel behind, you’re not. The goal right now isn’t perfection; it’s a steady rhythm that keeps your home friendly and functional while you enjoy the season.

    This post gives you a simple mid-month tune-up you can finish tonight (15–25 minutes), real-life examples, and a checklist you can tape inside a cupboard. Breathe—you’ve got this.

    Why a Mid-Month Tune-Up Works

    • It’s short. Small wins done daily beat big projects you never start.
    • It targets December pain points. Entry piles, kitchen surfaces, wrapping supplies.
    • It protects tomorrow. A five-minute decision tonight saves twenty minutes in the morning.

    Pair this with routines you already know, like the Kitchen Reset Guide and a 5-Minute Morning Reset. If your entry is a trouble spot, set up a mini mudroom with the Laundry & Drop-Zone Setup.

    The Mid-Month Tune-Up (15–25 minutes)

    Set a timer. Play two songs. When the music ends, you’re done.

    1) Entry Landing Zone (5 minutes)

    Give everything a home at the door so clutter doesn’t roam.

    • Packages to one landing spot (bench, basket, or shelf).
    • Break down empty boxes; toss wrapping scraps in a bag.
    • Shoes in bins, coats on hooks, keys and mail on a tray.
    • Start a “Returns/Exchanges” tote by the door or in the trunk.

    Why it helps: When the entry is under control, mess stops at the border.

    2) Kitchen Surfaces (8 minutes)

    Clear counters = easy mornings.

    • Load/start the dishwasher; hand-wash the one pan that lingers.
    • Wipe island, counters, and stove (crumbs first, then a quick spray).
    • Stage the morning: mugs, bowls/spoons, water bottles.
    • If you can, start the robot vacuum while you finish.

    Why it helps: Nothing sets the tone like an empty sink and a clean prep zone.

    3) Holiday Helpers (5–7 minutes)

    A) Decor Tools Bin
    Label a small bin and park it near the tree: ornament hooks, ribbon, scissors, extra light clips, lint roller. When a stray shows up, it has a home.

    B) Gift-Wrapping Tote (Three-Paper Rule)
    Keep one portable tote stocked with scissors, tape, pens, tags, twine, mini trash bags, and three papers only:

    • one neutral (kraft/white/sage)
    • one kid-fun print
    • one elegant print

    Less choice = faster wrap + quick cleanup.

    Tiny Decisions That Buy Back Calm

    Make these “once and done” choices and use them all month:

    • One in, one out. When a new item arrives, choose one to donate or toss.
    • Paper control. Open mail at the entry tray; recycling out immediately.
    • Two-gift limit. In any wrapping session, do two gifts and stop at done.
    • Laundry loop. If you start a load after dinner, fold and put away before bed—even a small stack counts.

    Real-Life Snapshots

    “Company at 6:30”

    Problem: Guests are coming and your space looks “lived in.”
    Tune-Up (20 minutes): Entry (5) → Kitchen surfaces (8) → Living room glow-down (7): fold throws, tray the remotes, cups to sink, lamp on.
    Result: Feels finished, not perfect—exactly right for December.

    “Apartment + Packages Everywhere”

    Problem: Boxes and returns block your walkway.
    Tune-Up (15 minutes): Everything goes to one landing basket. Break down empties. Start a returns tote and put it by the door. Finish with a quick counter wipe.
    Result: You can walk again; visual stress drops.

    “ADHD + Busy Kids”

    Problem: Transitions are tough; clutter multiplies after 8 pm.
    Tune-Up (playlist + timer): One song = entry reset. One song = kitchen wipe. Keep a visible caddy under the sink so you don’t hunt for supplies.
    Result: Fewer decisions, consistent wins.

    How to Keep It Going (without burnout)

    • Lower the bar; keep the rhythm. 70% done beats 0% perfect.
    • Rotate focus. Kitchen nightly, living room every other night, bathroom quick wipe on Thursdays.
    • Use your floor plan. If you pass a space every day, give it 60 seconds as you pass.
    • Leave cues out. Store your caddy under the sink, not hidden in the hall closet. If you see it, you’ll use it.

    Troubleshooting Quickies

    “Packages still pile up.”
    Shrink the landing zone. A smaller basket forces a nightly empty.

    “Counters keep collecting mail.”
    Everything lands on the entry tray first. Only bills or keepers reach the kitchen.

    “Glitter everywhere.”
    Keep a lint roller and handheld broom in your Decor Tools bin. Two minutes = reset.

    “I miss nights.”
    Do the micro version: entry (2 minutes), wipe island (2 minutes), fluff throws (1 minute). Five minutes beats zero.

    Simple Checklist: Mid-December Tune-Up

    Entry (5)

    • ☐ Packages to landing zone
    • ☐ Boxes broken down; scraps bagged
    • ☐ Shoes binned; coats on hooks
    • ☐ “Returns/Exchanges” tote by the door

    Kitchen (8)

    • ☐ Dishwasher running / pan washed
    • ☐ Wipe island, counters, stove
    • ☐ Stage morning (coffee/tea, bowls, bottles)
    • ☐ Robot vac on (if you have one)

    Holiday Helpers (5–7)

    • ☐ Decor Tools bin stocked (hooks, ribbon, lint roller)
    • ☐ Gift-wrap tote refreshed (scissors, tape, pens, tags)
    • ☐ Three-paper rule set

    Optional (if time)

    • ☐ Two-gift wrapping sprint
    • ☐ One laundry action (move, fold, put away)

    Print this, tape it inside a cupboard, or save it on your phone so it’s easy to find at 8:30 pm.

    Gentle Pep Talk

    You’re not behind. You’re building a rhythm that fits real life. The tree can lean a little, the counters can sparkle tomorrow. Tonight, do the small things your future self will thank you for.

    Start here: A Gentle Tune-Up for a Calmer Home

    Get the free email resets: Join the Weekly Home Reset

    Like simple systems? Subscribe for weekly tiny wins—and follow along for quick visuals and reminders.

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