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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.

  • Halfway Through December: A Gentle Tune-Up for a Calmer Home

    We’re mid-month—packages, people, glitter, and good chaos. If you’re feeling behind, you’re not. December always expands. The goal isn’t a perfect home; it’s a steady, gentle rhythm that makes the next two weeks feel lighter.

    Below is a simple mid-month tune-up: tiny resets, quick decisions, and a short checklist you can actually finish tonight. You’ll also find real-life examples and a friendly nudge to choose less but better so you can enjoy the moments you’re making.


    Start with the Wins You Already Have

    Before we fix anything, notice what’s working:

    • A corner that stays tidy (why does it work? copy that to another spot)
    • A routine that’s stuck (maybe your nightly closing shift)
    • One system your family actually uses (shoe bin, hook, or tray)

    Say it out loud: “We’ve got this.” Momentum comes from wins, not from perfect plans.


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

    Think of this like a pit stop. No deep clean. Just a reset of the spots that carry the most weight.

    1) Entry Landing Zone (5 minutes)

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

    • Pile all packages in one spot (bench, basket, laundry shelf)
    • Break down empty boxes; toss wrapping scraps in a bag
    • Keys in the tray, shoes in bins, coats on hooks
    • Start a “Returns/Exchanges” tote near the door

    Why it matters: A clear entry keeps mess from migrating into the rest of the house. For a fuller walkthrough, see Laundry & Drop-Zone Setup.

    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 have a robot vacuum, start it now

    Why it matters: This single habit reduces morning stress more than almost anything. Deep dive here: Kitchen Reset Guide.

    3) Holiday Tools Bin (5 minutes)

    Give seasonal clutter one home.

    • Label a small bin: “Decor Tools” (hooks, ribbon, ornament hangers, lint roller)
    • Toss stray decor bits inside as you find them
    • Keep the bin near the tree or where you decorate

    Why it matters: No more glitter hunts or hook emergencies.

    4) Gift-Wrap Tote Touch-Up (2–7 minutes)

    If you’re still wrapping, refresh the tote.

    • Scissors and tape back in, pens working, tags stocked
    • Three-paper rule: one neutral, one kid-fun, one elegant
    • One medium bag + tissue for weird shapes

    Why it matters: You’ll wrap faster and put it away in seconds. Pair with the 10-minute system in your Gift-Wrapping Tote card from the lead magnet.


    Tiny Decisions That Buy Back Calm

    Mid-December is full of micro-choices. Decide them once:

    • One in, one out: When a new item arrives, choose one to donate or toss.
    • Paper control: Open mail at the entry tray; junk out now.
    • Two-gift limit: In any wrapping session, do two gifts only. Stop at done.
    • Small laundry rule: A load started after dinner must be put away before bed (even if it’s just a small stack).

    Real-Life Snapshots

    “Company at 6:30”

    Problem: Guests are coming and the house looks “lived in.”
    Shift (20 minutes): Entry reset (5) → kitchen surfaces (8) → living room glow-down (7): fold throws, tray the remotes, cups to sink, lights low.
    Result: Feels finished, not perfect—exactly right for December.

    “Apartment + Packages Everywhere”

    Problem: Boxes blocking the hallway.
    Shift (15 minutes): All boxes to one “landing basket.” Break down empties, start a returns tote. Clear the kitchen counter last.
    Result: You can walk again. Visual noise drops immediately.

    “ADHD + Busy Kids”

    Problem: Transitions are hard; clutter multiplies after 8 pm.
    Shift (playlist + timer): One song = entry reset. One song = kitchen. Visible caddy under the sink.
    Result: Short cues, fewer decisions, consistent wins.


    The Halfway-Point Mindset

    • Lower the bar, keep the rhythm. A 70% reset beats no reset.
    • Rotate focus. Kitchen nightly, living room every other night, bathroom quick wipe on Thursdays.
    • Use your floor plan. If you pass a space daily, give it a 60-second touch-up when you pass.
    • Leave cues out. Put your caddy under the sink, not hidden in the hall closet. If you see it, you’ll use it.

    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 (2–7):

    • ☐ 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.


    When Motivation Slips

    Try “just one corner.” Clear a 2-foot square: island corner, coffee table corner, or entry bench. Small clear spaces invite more clearing.

    Play the “photo trick.” After your 15-minute reset, snap a quick photo. Tomorrow-you will want that again.

    Ask a tiny question: “What would make tomorrow morning easier?” Do that one thing.


    Keep the Rhythm With Two Companion Routines

    • Nightly Closing Shift (10–20 minutes): The short routine that resets your kitchen, entry, and laundry. See the guide: [Closing Shift] (SWAP-LINK) or pair with your Kitchen Reset.
    • 5-Minute Morning Reset: A fast morning flow that takes the edge off breakfast and departure. Try: wipe sink, start diffuser, toss last-night’s towel in the hamper. Deep dive: 5-Minute Morning Reset.

    (Internal links are placeholders—swap in your actual posts.)


    You’re Doing Great

    Mid-December isn’t for perfection. It’s for kind systems that hold your home together while you make memories. Your home doesn’t need to sparkle to feel good; it needs a rhythm you can keep.

    Do tonight’s tune-up and let tomorrow feel lighter.


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

    • Subscribe: Join the Weekly Home Reset (one calm tip each week)
    • Follow: Instagram @happy_organized_me • TikTok @deseretbaker • Facebook Happy Organized Me

  • The 15-Minute Holiday Home Reset (Stay Festive, Not Frazzled)

    December gets full fast—packages at the door, glitter on the table, guests popping in. Instead of “I need a whole weekend,” try a tiny, repeatable reset you can run most days this month. I call it the Holiday Home Reset—a 15-minute flow that keeps your space cheerful and calm without perfection or marathons.

    This post gives you a simple plan, real-life examples, and a printable-friendly checklist you can tape inside a cupboard. Breathe. You’ve got this.


    Why a Holiday Reset Works

    Think of it as “housekeeping lite”—swift, kind to your future self, and totally doable after a long day.


    Your 15-Minute Flow (Three micro-zones)

    Set a timer for 15. Play two songs. When the music ends, you’re done.

    1) Entry & Packages (5 minutes)

    Goal: one landing spot, zero floor piles.

    • Bring every package to a single landing zone (bench, basket, or laundry shelf).
    • Break down empty boxes; toss wrapping scraps into a bag.
    • Shoes in the bin, coats on hooks, keys and mail on a tray.
    • If you need returns later, label one tote “Returns/Exchanges” and park it by the door.

    Tip: If your entry doubles as a hallway, use a narrow tray + vertical hooks. Horizontal surfaces attract piles; vertical storage stops them.

    2) Kitchen Touch-Up (6 minutes)

    Goal: clear surfaces for tomorrow morning.

    • Load or start the dishwasher; wash the one pan that always lingers.
    • Wipe island/counters/stove (crumbs first, then a quick spray).
    • Put away party platters/cookie sheets you won’t need again tonight.
    • Start the robot vacuum while you finish the last minute of the reset.

    Pair this with your normal closing shift if you like a deeper tidy. If you’re wrapping gifts tonight, set your wrapping totenearby and use the “three-paper rule.”

    3) Living Room Glow-Down (4 minutes)

    Goal: make the room feel finished (even with the tree up).

    • Fluff pillows, fold throws, stack remotes in a tray.
    • Return stray ornaments/ribbon to a small bin labeled “Decor Tools.”
    • Two-minute sweep: cups to the sink, toys to the basket, mail to the tray.
    • Switch lights to cozy evening mode (lamps > overheads).

    If you’ve got five extra minutes: take a picture of your tidy space. The visual proof makes starting tomorrow’s reset easier.


    Real-Life Snapshots

    Busy Parent, late bedtime:
    They run the entry + kitchen steps, then hand the living-room glow-down to a teen (two-minute toy sweep, throw blankets folded). Everyone’s asleep on time, and the breakfast start is actually calm.

    Apartment couple with limited storage:
    Packages go straight to one paper bag by the door. They keep a fold-flat box cutter in the same bag, plus one “Returns” tote under the coat rack. Floor stays clear, sanity saved.

    ADHD-friendly approach:
    Timer + playlist + visible caddy. They place a small basket in each zone to scoop and move items at the end, so decisions are minimal and momentum doesn’t die.


    The Holiday Tidy Capsule (stuff that makes this easy)

    You don’t need a full haul. You need the right handful of helpers:

    • Entry: narrow tray, key bowl, hooks, one returns tote
    • Kitchen: spray, cloth, dishwasher tabs, a small broom or robot vac
    • Living room: lidded basket for toys, slim tray for remotes, a “Decor Tools” bin (hooks, extra ribbon, ornament hangers)
    • Gift-wrap tote: scissors, tape, pens, tags, twine, mini trash bags, three papers (neutral, kid-fun, elegant)

    Label once. Use all month.


    Troubleshooting (tiny problems, tiny fixes)

    “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. Open it there. Only bills and keepers enter the kitchen.

    “Glitter everywhere.”
    Keep a lint roller and handheld broom in the 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 minutes every time.


    Simple Checklist: 15-Minute Holiday Reset

    Entry (5):

    • ☐ Packages to landing zone
    • ☐ Boxes broken down, scraps bagged
    • ☐ Shoes binned, coats hung, keys/mail on tray

    Kitchen (6):

    • ☐ Dishwasher running / pan washed
    • ☐ Counters + stove wiped
    • ☐ Party tools away, robot vac on

    Living Room (4):

    • ☐ Throws folded, remotes in tray
    • ☐ Strays to baskets (toys, cups, mail)
    • ☐ Evening lights on

    Bonus (if time):

    • ☐ Gift-wrap tote staged (three-paper rule)
    • ☐ “Returns” tote labeled near the door

    Print this and tape it inside a cupboard—or grab the printable below.


    Keep December Gentle (habit tips)

    • Pick your window. Right after dinner works for many families; late-night people run it after tea.
    • Stack it. Pair the reset with a habit you already do (putting the kettle on, kids’ toothbrushing, letting the dog out).
    • Stop at done. When the timer ends, you’re complete for tonight. Perfection is not invited.

    Ready for the calm-holiday era?

    Do tonight’s 15-minute reset and let tomorrow feel lighter.
    Grab the Holiday Home Reset Checklist (fridge-ready PDF) plus a Gift-Wrapping Tote card you can tuck into your caddy.

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

    • Subscribe: Join the Weekly Home Reset (one calm tip each week)
    • Follow: Instagram @happy_organized_me • TikTok @deseretbaker • Facebook Happy Organized Me

  • How to Get the Chanel / Old-Money Glam Christmas Look at Home

    If you love Christmas but you’re not a red-and-green girl, this one’s for you.

    Think less “Santa at the mall” and more “Chanel boutique at midnight.”
    Soft lights, black and cream gift boxes, velvet ribbon, pearls, and just enough sparkle to feel expensive—not loud.

    The good news? You don’t need designer decor or a brand-new tree. You can create this Chanel / old-money glam look with a few key colors and some styling tricks.

    Let’s break it down step by step.


    1. Start With the Color Palette

    Chanel-inspired + old money = quiet, rich neutrals.

    Use this simple palette:

    • Deep espresso / black – boxes, ribbon, accents
    • Cream / ivory – fabric, candles, paper
    • Metallics – champagne gold, soft silver, a touch of mirror or crystal
    • Evergreen – garland, tree branches, wreaths
    • Optional: pearls or soft white “jewelry” details

    If something is bright red, lime green, or super shiny plastic, set it aside for another area. Here we stay calm, neutral, and intentional.


    2. Choose Your “Runway” Spot

    This look is perfect for:

    • A long dresser or buffet
    • An entry console
    • A fireplace mantel

    You want a flat surface with a little wall space above it. In my house, I used a dark wood dresser with a big sunburst mirror and two crystal lamps on each side.

    Tip: Keep the background simple so your decor can shine. If you have a mirror or artwork above, that’s a bonus—it reflects the lights and doubles the sparkle.


    3. Lay the Foundation: Fabric, Greenery, and Lights

    Step 1: Soft base

    Lay down a neutral runner or piece of fabric:

    • Cream, ivory, or soft champagne
    • A tiny bit of shimmer or beading is welcome, but not required

    This gives your decor a “stage” and protects the furniture.

    Step 2: Green garland

    Run a faux evergreen garland along the back edge, from lamp to lamp (or end to end).

    • Fluff the branches so it looks full and soft
    • Let a few tips spill forward over the runner

    Step 3: Warm lights

    Weave in a strand of warm white fairy lights:

    • Hide the cord under the garland
    • Tuck the bulbs in and out of the branches for a dotted glow

    Already feeling fancy, right?


    4. Wrap Like Chanel: Gift Boxes as Decor

    The secret to this look is elevating simple boxes into decor.

    Use any boxes you have—shoe boxes, Amazon boxes, little jewelry boxes.

    1. Wrap some in deep brown/black paper (or the darkest neutral you have).
    2. Wrap others in cream or soft metallic.
    3. Add simple satin ribbon:
      • Light ribbon on dark paper
      • Dark ribbon on light paper
      • Clean bows, long tails, nothing fussy

    Now style them:

    • Create one tall stack on one side (3 boxes, biggest on bottom).
    • Place one or two flatter boxes on the other side.
    • Angle them slightly toward the center so it feels intentional.

    They should look like Chanel gift boxes that just happen to be lounging on your dresser.


    5. Add a Glam Centerpiece

    Next, you need one focal piece in the middle.

    Choose one of these:

    • glass cloche filled with metallic ornaments
    • footed bowl or compote piled with champagne and pearl ornaments
    • tall silver or glass hurricane with a chunky candle and ornaments tucked around the base

    Keep it in the center but not too tall—you don’t want to block your mirror or art.

    Designer trick: If your centerpiece is too short, set it on a wrapped box or a stack of pretty books with the dust jackets removed. Instant “old town library” vibe.


    6. Details That Make It “Old Money”

    This is where the magic happens. Small, quiet touches make it feel expensive.

    Velvet ribbon on the mirror

    If you have a mirror above your console:

    • Tie a black velvet bow at the top.
    • Hang one simple ornament (gold, champagne, or pearl) from the center so it floats in front of the glass.

    It’s such a small detail and it changes the whole mood.

    Pearls and jewelry

    Use what you already own:

    • faux pearl necklace, gold bead strand, or soft metallic garland
    • Drape it loosely around the base of your centerpiece or along the front of a gift stack

    Think “I just tossed my necklace here for a second,” not “carefully staged pearl shrine.”

    A small, framed photo

    Old money decor almost always has family somewhere in the mix.

    • Add one small black-and-white photo in a gold or silver frame.
    • Tuck it beside your gift stack or next to the cloche.

    Instant history.


    7. Edit Like a Stylist

    Once everything is on the surface:

    1. Step back a few feet.
    2. Squint slightly and look at shapes, not objects.

    You’re looking for:

    • Symmetry in height – lamps on each side, medium-height decor, then lower items in the front
    • Breathing room – a little open space in the center so your eye can rest
    • Repeating colors – black or dark brown in at least three spots, metallic in at least three, greenery flowing behind it all

    If an object feels random or steals attention, remove it. Old money style is less about “more stuff” and more about a few beautiful things, well-placed.


    8. Bring It Into the Rest of the Room

    Once your console looks ready for a Vogue Christmas shoot, echo the look in small ways:

    • Add one black-and-cream gift box under the tree
    • Swap bright tree ribbons for velvet or satin neutrals
    • Use matching gift wrap on presents so everything feels cohesive
    • Pop a little piece of greenery and a black ribbon on a stack of coffee table books

    You don’t have to change your entire house—just repeat the same language: cream, deep brown/black, metallic, greenery, and clean lines.


    Want a Step-by-Step Checklist?

    If you’d like a printable Chanel / Old-Money Glam Decorating Checklist and a simple shopping list you can take to the store, I’ve put one together for you.

    👉 Join the Home Reset

    Light your candles, turn on the fairy lights, and enjoy that quiet, luxurious glow. You absolutely can create a high-end holiday look with what you already have—one bow, one box, and one little detail at a time.


    January is right around the corner!

    I’ll be teaching you how to put all of your holiday decor away so it comes out next year looking just as beautiful as it does today—while also protecting it, simplifying next year, and keeping the whole process calm and doable.

  • The 10-Minute Gift-Wrapping System (So Presents Don’t Take Over Your December)

    If gift-wrapping always turns into a floor-covered, tape-stuck, can’t-find-the-scissors situation… this one’s for you. A simple, portable wrapping system keeps the holidays fun and your home calm. No spare room needed. No marathon session. Just a tote, three papers, and a 10-minute plan you can repeat all month.

    This isn’t about perfect bows. It’s about fast, pretty, done—with zero search-and-rescue for tape.


    Why a System Beats a Wrapping Sprawl

    • Everything in reach. One tote = no wandering the house for tape or tags.
    • Less choice, faster finish. Three papers beat fifteen. Decision fatigue disappears.
    • Portable. Wrap at the table, on the island, even on the bed—then put it all away in seconds.

    If you like this approach, pair it with the Kitchen Reset Guide so holiday messes don’t linger, and the 5-Minute Morning Reset to keep your energy steady. Bonus: use your Laundry & Drop-Zone Setup as the “gift landing zone” so packages don’t roam.


    Your Wrapping Tote (What Goes Inside)

    The Tote: medium caddy, toolbox, or handled bin. It should be light, sturdy, and easy to carry.

    Inside the Tote:

    • Scissors (one sharp pair that lives here only)
    • Tape (two rolls: standard + double-sided if you like crisp seams)
    • Pens/marker (fine-tip black, silver/white for dark paper)
    • Gift tags (pre-punched or sticker tags)
    • Twine or ribbon (one neutral spool, one festive spool)
    • Mini trash bags (for paper trims; this keeps the workspace tidy)
    • Flat glue dots (optional, for bows or twine ends)
    • Fold-flat shirt boxes (2–3)
    • A few spare cards (for gifts that need a note)

    Keep paper and tissue separate in a vertical magazine file or paper bag beside the tote.


    The “Three-Paper Rule” (Choose Once, Use All Month)

    Pick three styles that cover every vibe:

    1. Neutral: kraft, white, or soft sage—works for anyone.
    2. Kid-fun: bright pattern or whimsical print.
    3. Elegant: metallic dot/stripe or deep blue/emerald.

    That’s it. Three. You’ll move twice as fast, and your tree will still look beautiful and cohesive.

    Tip: add one roll of solid tissue and one pack of gift bags in two sizes (small + medium) for odd-shaped items. Bags are not cheating; they’re smart.


    The 10-Minute Wrapping Flow

    Set a timer. Play one song. When it ends, you’re likely done.

    Minute 0–1: Stage Your Space

    • Clear a counter or table.
    • Tote on the right if you’re right-handed (left if left-handed).
    • Trash bag clipped to the tote or set on the chair.

    Minute 1–3: Measure & Cut

    • Place the gift on the paper.
    • Pull paper up each side to meet at the center; if it overlaps by 1–2 inches, you’ve got the right width.
    • Cut with long, steady strokes. (If your scissors skip, flip the paper around and cut from the other side.)

    Minute 3–5: Wrap & Seal

    • Tape the center seam.
    • Fold ends into a neat triangle: top flap down, side flaps in, bottom up.
    • For slippery paper, add a dot of double-sided tape under the seam.

    Minute 5–7: Tie & Tag (the 1-2-3 finish)

    • One wrap of twine or ribbon around the short side.
    • Simple knot or single bow—no perfection needed.
    • Initial tag: write the recipient’s initial on the front corner. (Fast ID under the tree, fewer tag disasters.)

    Minute 7–10: Reset & Put Away

    • Snip scraps into the trash bag.
    • Return tape and pens to the tote.
    • Stack wrapped gifts in your gift landing zone (shelf, basket, or under-tree bin).
    • Tote and papers go back to their spot. Done.

    Real-Life Examples

    Busy Parent Wrapping After Bedtime

    • Problem: every night the table explodes with paper.
    • Shift: the tote lives on the pantry floor. Three-paper rule + 10-minute flow.
    • Result: two or three gifts done per night—no mess left behind.

    Apartment Dwellers with Zero Storage

    • Problem: nowhere to leave supplies out.
    • Shift: a compact toolbox + a roll bag for paper stored under the bed.
    • Result: wrap on the bed, drop scraps into the mini bag, slide everything away in 30 seconds.

    ADHD-Friendly System

    • Problem: starting feels hard, options feel loud.
    • Shift: timer + playlist. The tote reduces decisions; three papers give instant boundaries.
    • Result: easy start, quick win, and finish signals (song ends, trash bag tied).

    Common Sticking Points (and Simple Fixes)

    • “I can’t find my scissors.”
      Pick one pair that lives in the tote. Add washi tape to the handles so they don’t wander.
    • “My corners are messy.”
      Use boxes inside for soft items; folding rigid edges makes clean corners automatic.
    • “Bows cost too much.”
      Twine + a sprig of evergreen (real or faux) looks chic and is budget-friendly.
    • “Paper tears.”
      Your cut is too tight. Add 1 inch to the width; reinforce the seam with double-sided tape.
    • “It still takes forever.”
      Limit yourself to two gifts per session, then stop. Consistency beats marathon wrapping.

    Simple Checklist: Quick Gift-Wrapping System

    • ☐ Tote stocked: scissors, tape (2), pens, tags, twine, mini trash bags
    • ☐ Three papers: neutral, kid-fun, elegant
    • ☐ Two bag sizes + tissue for odd shapes
    • ☐ One clear workspace
    • ☐ 10-minute timer + one song
    • ☐ Initial tag on top corner
    • ☐ Reset tote + stash supplies back in place

    Print this checklist and tape it inside a cupboard door, or tuck it into your tote.


    Where to Keep It All (So You’ll Actually Use It)

    • Kitchen pantry floor or laundry shelf: easy access, easy put-away.
    • Bedroom closet: great if you wrap last thing at night.
    • Under-bed bin: perfect for apartments or tight spaces.

    Label the spot: “Wrapping—Do Not Move.” (It helps families help you.)


    Ready to Wrap the Calm Way?

    Set your tote once. Choose your three papers. Then wrap when it suits you—10 minutes at a time. You’ll finish faster, spend less, and keep your home peaceful instead of paper-covered.

  • December Calm:

    A 20-Minute Reset That Survives the Holidays

    Tiny wins, warm rooms, and zero guilt—because December is full enough.

    If your home feels like wrapping paper met glitter met guests, breathe. December doesn’t need perfect; it needs a forgiving rhythm that makes rooms usable and spirits calmer. This month I’m running a 20-Minute December Reset—two quick 10-minute blocks that fit between cocoa breaks, concerts, and last-minute errands. No marathons. No shame. Just traction.


    • Micro > marathon. Short bursts prevent the “lost my whole day to cleaning” spiral.
    • Visual wins first. Clear surfaces soothe holiday-busy brains.
    • Same steps, every time. A simple script beats decision fatigue when the calendar is packed.

    Mantra: Done is better than perfect. (We love a lived-in holiday home.)


    Block 1 — Clear & Calm (10 minutes)

    1. Trash + dishes (2) – small bag loop; dishes to sink/dishwasher.
    2. Return the strays (3) – shopping bags, mail, gifts → into a Reset Bin.
    3. Surface sweep (3) – clear the most visible surface (island/table/coffee table).
    4. Quick contain (1) – one tray/bin per zone. Corral, don’t overthink.
    5. Mood flip (1) – lights on, diffuser/candle, blanket folded. Done.

    Block 2 — The Holiday Landing Zone (10 minutes)

    Create one surface where “all the things” can land without chaos.

    • Choose a spot: console table, sideboard, laundry counter, or a tray.
    • Divide into four mini-zones: In/Out Mail • Gifts to Wrap • Returns/Receipts • Events/School/Church
    • Label with painter’s tape.
    • Evening 5-minute reset: restore piles to their mini-zones and move one item forward (wrap 1 gift, schedule 1 return).

    Wild day? Do Block 1 only. Calm day? Stack both. Either way, you win.


    • Kitchen: clear sink, wipe stovetop, reset island, fresh towel, set out cocoa mugs.
    • Living Room: fold throws, clear coffee table, stack remotes/books, lamp on.
    • Entry/Mudroom: shoes lined, one hook per person, mail to tray, keys to dish, shake mat.
    • Bathroom (guest-ready): towels up, clear vanity, mirror swipe, soap + TP restock.
    • Bedroom: smooth duvet, clear nightstands, put away visible laundry, breathe.

    1. One in, one out (holiday edition). For every décor piece you add, remove one.
    2. Paper has a home. All receipts and handouts → Landing Zone → Returns/Receipts.
    3. Good enough is gorgeous. Your table doesn’t need a catalog spread to feel like home.

    • Tools tote: scissors, tape, pens, tags, twine, small trash bag.
    • Three papers total: one neutral, one kid-fun, one elegant—less choice, faster wrap.
    • Initial tag: write recipient initial on top corner; easy to spot under the tree.

    • Use the same playlist for every reset—let the music cue the habit.
    • Ask: “What’s my next 60-second win?” then do only that.
    • Time blindness fix: set a 10-minute timer twice instead of one 20.


    Pick a Landing Zone today. Snap a tiny before/after and tag @happy_organized_me with #HappyOrganizedReset. I’ll feature a few wins in the next newsletter.


    Ready for a calmer December?
    Join the Happy Organized Me Newsletter for weekly tiny wins and pretty printables—so your home feels peaceful, even when life is busy. You’ll get the Reset Cards instantly.
    👉 Grab the free printable + join the list today.


    FAQ (quick)

    How often should I reset? Most days, just Block 1. Add Block 2 when juggling returns and events.
    What if I miss a day? You didn’t “ruin” anything. Start the next 10-minute block.
    Where should the Landing Zone live? The first clear surface near your entry or kitchen—where chaos naturally lands.





    Your advice could be exactly what someone else needs.

    • Which surface will you claim as your Landing Zone?
    • What’s your next 60-second win right now?
    • Share a pic with #HappyOrganizedMe for a chance to be featured.

  • Tame the Shelf Chaos: How These Stackable Closet Baskets Turn Piles into Peace

    Disclosure: This post contains affiliate links. That means if you purchase through my link, I may earn a small commission at no extra cost to you. I only share products that genuinely help create calmer, more functional homes.

    If your closet shelf is doing that “avalanche” thing every time you reach for a sweater, you’re my people.

    Stacks of shirts, random towels, one lonely hoodie, a purse you forgot you owned… and somehow everything you want is always at the bottom of the pile.

    That’s why I’m loving the 5 Pack Stackable Closet Storage Basket—a simple little upgrade that turns those leaning towers of clothes into neat, easy-to-reach zones instead of chaos.

    👉 You can check it out here: [sponsored Amazon product link]


    Why Stackable Baskets Work So Well for Busy (and Tired) Brains

    When life is full—kids, work, hormones, holidays, all the things—your home has to help you, not fight you.

    Stackable baskets are especially good for:

    • ADHD / easily-distracted brains – Clear visual categories instead of “mystery piles”
    • Tired evenings – You can toss items into the right bin without perfect folding
    • Mornings on the go – You see what you have at a glance; no digging, no refolding

    Instead of one big “everything shelf,” you create tiny homes for your stuff:

    • A home for workout leggings
    • A home for everyday tees
    • A home for towels or sheets
    • A home for “I’ll wear this again” clothes

    Tiny homes = tiny decisions = calmer brain.


    Meet the 5 Pack Stackable Closet Storage Basket

    This set gives you 5 matching baskets that stack neatly on top of each other, creating vertical storage without needing any tools or permanent shelves.

    Key things to love:

    • Stackable with an open front
      You can slide clothes, towels, or containers in and out from the front without unstacking every single bin.
    • Foldable when not in use
      If you rearrange a space or don’t need all five at once, they fold down and tuck away easily.
    • Durable, waterproof PP plastic
      They’re made from sturdy, waterproof plastic, which means you can use them in bathrooms, kitchens, and laundry rooms and simply wipe them clean with a damp cloth. Temu+1
    • Neutral white, clean look
      The white color works with almost any style—minimal, farmhouse, modern, whatever your house is doing right now.bedbathandbeyond.com
    • Roomy size
      Similar stackable sets run around 16.7″ long x 13.1″ wide x 7.3″ high per basket, which is a comfortable size for sweaters, jeans, towels, pantry backstock, or kids’ clothes. Amazon

    In plain terms: they’re strong, wipeable, neutral, and big enough to actually be useful—not just cute.

    👉 Take a closer look here: [insert your Amazon associate link]


    5 Smart Ways to Use These Baskets Around Your Home

    You don’t have to keep these only in your closet. I love multipurpose pieces that can wander all over the house as your life shifts.

    1. Bedroom Closet: Calm the Clothing Pile

    Use the five baskets to create “zones” on a single shelf:

    1. Everyday Tees & Tanks
    2. Workout Gear
    3. Jeans & Leggings
    4. Sweaters / Hoodies
    5. “Wear Again” Basket (lightly worn but not dirty)

    Label the front with clip-on tags or simple sticker labels so your future self doesn’t have to think — just drops things into the right home.


    2. Laundry Room: Catch the Overflow

    Laundry rooms get chaotic fast. These baskets work well for:

    • Stray Socks – No more sock graveyard on top of the dryer
    • Clean But Not Folded – A landing zone for clean clothes waiting for their owner
    • Towels & Rags – Keep cleaning cloths separate from nice towels
    • Laundry Products – Corralling detergents, dryer sheets, stain sprays

    Because the baskets are waterproof and wipeable, they handle spills and humidity better than fabric bins. Temu


    3. Bathroom: Towels, TP & Hair Tools

    Small bathrooms especially need vertical storage.

    Stack the baskets under an open shelf or in a linen closet for:

    • Hand towels & washcloths
    • Backup toilet paper
    • Extra toiletries (shampoo, body wash, razors)
    • Hair tools – Curling irons, straighteners, brushes, and products

    The open front lets you grab what you need without knocking everything over.


    4. Kitchen & Pantry: Backstock Without the Mess

    Use a set in the pantry for:

    • Snacks – Granola bars, chips, lunchbox treats
    • Baking Zone – Flour, sugar, cocoa, baking powder all together
    • Grab-and-Go Breakfast – Oatmeal packets, protein bars, nut packs
    • Paper Goods – Napkins, paper plates, plastic cutlery

    Because the bins are plastic, they’re perfect for food-adjacent areas where crumbs and spills happen. A quick wipe and they’re good again. Walmart.com


    5. Kids’ Rooms or Playroom: Rotate the Chaos

    Kids’ spaces get visually noisy fast. These baskets can help you:

    • Separate Legos from dolls, from art supplies
    • Create a “This Week’s Toys” stack and keep the rest stored away
    • Set up a simple “Sunday Reset” where everything goes back into its bin

    You can even assign one basket per child for shared spaces: socks, accessories, favorite little treasures—they all get one contained, stackable home.


    How I’d Set These Up in a Real Closet (Step-by-Step)

    If you want a quick win, try this:

    1. Choose one problem shelf
      Don’t organize your whole house tonight. Pick the messiest shelf in your closet, laundry room, or bathroom.
    2. Empty it completely
      Lay everything on the bed or floor. (Yes, it looks worse before it gets better.)
    3. Sort into five piles
      Think in “baskets,” not in categories at first:
      • Pile 1: I use this every day
      • Pile 2: I use this weekly
      • Pile 3: Seasonal or sometimes
      • Pile 4: I’m not sure / may donate
      • Pile 5: Trash / obvious “no”
    4. Assign each pile to a basket
      Put your most-used categories in the easiest-to-reach baskets (front and center).
    5. Label the fronts
      Even a piece of masking tape and a Sharpie works. Future you will be grateful.
    6. Do a 30-second reset at night
      Before bed, toss anything that wandered onto that shelf back into its basket. Tiny habit, huge payoff.

    Is This Set Worth It?

    If you are:

    • Tired of clothes and linens sliding into a messy heap
    • Short on closet space but long on stuff
    • Wanting a system that doesn’t require building shelves or buying a whole closet kit

    …then a simple, 5-pack of stackable baskets is a solid, low-commitment upgrade. You can start with one shelf, one room, one tiny win—and expand from there.

    At the time I’m writing this, sets like the 5 Pack Stackable Closet Storage Basket are typically priced in an affordable range and give you five sturdy, reusable organizers you can move around your home as your needs change. Amazon+1

    If you’ve been waiting for a sign to finally tackle that “danger zone” shelf, this is it.

    👉 Shop the stackable baskets here: sponsored Amazon product link]

    Then come back and tell me in the comments:
    Which shelf did you calm first—and how does it feel every time you open that closet now?


    Want tiny shelf-and-closet wins sent to you once a week? Join the Weekly Home Reset and I’ll send one calm, doable task to your inbox → Newsletter


    Curious about the bins I used here? You can find them (and my other go-to containers) on Shop HOMe


    Stackable storage basket
    Sponsored – Stackable storage basket

  • 🌙 When the House Gets Quiet

    There’s a moment in every season when the noise fades.
    The to-do lists are shorter, the house feels softer, and even the air seems to sigh.

    It’s in these quiet moments—when the hum of the day slows down—that you can finally hear what your heart’s been trying to say all along.

    🕯 Listen to the Stillness

    The quiet isn’t empty.
    It’s full—of gratitude, memories, laughter that lingers, and sometimes even a few unspoken things you’re still sorting through.

    Sit with it.
    Let it hold you.
    Let it remind you that growth doesn’t always look loud or busy. Sometimes it’s a single deep breath in a still room.

    🍁 The Meaning of Home

    Home isn’t just walls and furniture—it’s the way the light hits your favorite chair, the scent of dinner cooking, or the warmth of someone’s laugh echoing down the hall.
    It’s where the layers of your life quietly gather and soften over time.

    When we stop long enough to notice it, home becomes a mirror of our inner world—messy, beautiful, evolving.

    ✨ The Quiet Kind of Gratitude

    Gratitude doesn’t always need to be shouted or written in a journal.
    Sometimes it’s as simple as pausing in the middle of the day and whispering, thank you.
    For the people who stay.
    For the lessons that took time.
    For the version of you who didn’t give up when it got hard.


    Final Thought

    This November, don’t rush to fill the quiet.
    Let it soften you, guide you, and remind you of how deeply loved and capable you already are.
    Because sometimes the most powerful transformation happens—not when life gets louder—but when you finally listen.

    Subscribe to HOMe Newsletter

    Get more in-depth information in our Newsletter

    Leave a comment

  • The 10-Minute Morning Reset: Start Your Day One Tiny Win at a Time

    Some mornings feel like a race you didn’t sign up for.
    You wake up already behind, the kitchen is loud with yesterday’s dishes, and your brain is juggling work, kids, appointments, and the never-ending “I should really…” list.

    10-Minute Morning Reset is a gentle way to change that.

    Not a full clean. Not a complete life overhaul.
    Just a short, kind routine that helps you:

    • Clear a little visual noise
    • Give your brain a calmer starting point
    • Stack one tiny win before the day takes off

    Think of it as your “good morning, future me” ritual.


    Why a Morning Reset (Especially If Nights Don’t Go as Planned)

    You might already have a night reset (or you’re trying to build one), but life happens:

    • Kids need extra attention
    • You stay up late working
    • You’re simply too tired

    That’s okay. Morning can be a second chance.

    10-Minute Morning Reset:

    • Helps you recover from a messy night without shaming yourself
    • Keeps the house moving forward even when yesterday didn’t go as planned
    • Sends a quiet message: “I can start fresh whenever I need to.”

    You don’t need a perfect streak.
    You just need a small, repeatable rhythm that feels doable on real-life mornings.


    What Is a 10-Minute Morning Reset?

    Simple definition:

    A 10-Minute Morning Reset is a short, focused routine that resets your bed, laundry, surfaces, and one “hot spot” so your home feels lighter all day long.

    It’s not about scrubbing baseboards or organizing closets.
    It’s about touching a few key areas that give you a big feeling of calm for a tiny amount of effort.

    Here’s what we’ll cover:

    1. Make your bed (even if it’s simple)
    2. Do one tiny laundry move
    3. Clear and wipe one main surface
    4. Reset one hot spot
    5. Take three slow breaths and choose one “home move” for the day

    You can do this in one 10-minute block, or in little 2–3 minute bursts as you move through your morning.


    Step 1: Make Your Bed (2 minutes)

    This is your first tiny win.

    You’re not creating a hotel bed. You’re just pulling things together so it looks “on purpose” instead of “still sleeping.”

    • Pull the sheets and blanket/duvet up
    • Smooth it once with your hands
    • Straighten pillows, or at least stack them neatly

    Why it matters:

    • Your brain gets an instant visual “done”
    • The room feels less chaotic, even if there’s still laundry or clutter
    • It’s a quick win you can stack other wins on top of

    If you do nothing else in the morning, making your bed still counts as a reset.


    Step 2: Do One Tiny Laundry Move (2–3 minutes)

    Laundry can feel endless because it is a full cycle. But a reset is about movement, not completion.

    Choose one:

    • Start a small load of the most urgent category (school clothes, towels, work clothes)
    • Move last night’s load from the washer to the dryer
    • Take one finished load to the bed, ready to fold later
    • Spend 2 minutes putting folded clothes into drawers

    Set a micro-goal like:

    “Morning laundry = one move. That’s it.”

    You’ll be surprised how much lighter the day feels when you know something is already in motion.


    Step 3: Clear + Wipe One Main Surface (3 minutes)

    Now we give your eyes a place to rest.

    Choose one:

    • Kitchen island
    • Dining table
    • Main bathroom counter
    • Desk or command center

    Then:

    1. Remove the obvious clutter
      • Trash in the trash
      • Dishes to the sink or dishwasher
      • Items that belong somewhere else into a small “re-home” basket
    2. Wipe it down
      • Quick swipe with a cloth or wipe is enough
      • No deep scrub required

    Why one surface?

    Because one clear, clean surface can shift how the entire room feels—especially when you walk back in after work, errands, or school drop-off.


    Step 4: Reset One “Hot Spot” (2–3 minutes)

    A hot spot is any place where clutter gathers like it owns the place:

    • Shoe pile by the door
    • Mail stack on the counter
    • Toys around the couch
    • Random “stuff chair” in the bedroom

    For your 10-Minute Morning Reset, you’re not “fixing” the whole category—you’re interrupting the pile.

    Try this:

    • Set a 2–3 minute timer
    • Focus on just one hot spot
    • Toss trash, put away the easy stuff, and move anything tricky into a labeled basket

    A good label for tricky items: “Decide Later” or “Sort Tonight”

    You’re giving the clutter a temporary home so it’s not shouting at you all day.


    Step 5: Three Breaths + One Home Intention (1 minute)

    This might be the most important part.

    When you finish your quick reset:

    1. Stand still for a moment.
    2. Take three slow breaths in and out.
    3. Ask yourself:

    “What is the one thing my home needs from me today?”

    Examples:

    • “Start the dishwasher after dinner.”
    • “Fold the laundry on the bed before tonight.”
    • “Clear the entry bench after work.”
    • “Take that donation bag to the car.”

    Write it on:

    • A sticky note
    • Your planner
    • A note in your phone

    That “one thing” becomes your home anchor task for the day. If you get to it—amazing. If not, you still completed your 10-Minute Morning Reset, and that is enough.


    Make It Easier: Use a Visual Checklist

    Our brains love simple, visual prompts—especially on groggy mornings.

    You can:

    • Jot the steps on an index card
    • Write them on a sticky note on the bathroom mirror
    • Use a printable checklist you can laminate and reuse

    Here’s a simple version you can copy:

    10-Minute Morning Reset

    • ☐ Make the bed
    • ☐ One tiny laundry move
    • ☐ Clear + wipe one main surface
    • ☐ Reset one hot spot
    • ☐ Three breaths + choose “one thing” for today

    👉 If you’d like a pretty, kitchen-friendly version, grab the 5-Minute Morning Reset Checklist and use it as your visual anchor:
    Download the 10-Minute Morning Reset Checklist


    What If You Don’t Have a Full 10 Minutes?

    Life happens. Some mornings are pure chaos.

    Here’s how to adapt:

    • Only have 3 minutes?
      • Make the bed
      • Toss trash and stack dishes near the sink
    • Only have 5 minutes?
      • Make the bed
      • Do one tiny laundry move
      • Wipe one surface
    • Already overwhelmed?
      • Skip to Step 5: three slow breaths + one intention
      • Do just one physical action (make bed OR clear a surface)

    You’re allowed to scale it to your energy, your schedule, and your reality.


    Tiny Wins Add Up (Even When No One Sees Them)

    You’re not “just” making a bed or wiping a counter.

    Every small reset is a quiet message to yourself:

    “I’m allowed to live in a home that feels calmer.”
    “I’m worth a softer start to my day.”
    “I don’t have to be perfect to make progress.”

    The 10-Minute Morning Reset isn’t another chore list.
    It’s a friendly, repeatable rhythm that:

    • Gives you quick visual wins
    • Supports your future self
    • Helps your home feel a little more peaceful, one morning at a time

    You’re not behind. You’re building something new.
    One bed, one surface, one breath at a time. 💛


  • The 20-Minute “Closing Shift”: Tiny Nightly Reset, Calmer Morning

    Hey friend—if mornings feel loud and rushed (keys? backpack? coffee?), a short evening reset can change the whole vibe of tomorrow. I call it a closing shift—same idea as a café tidying up for the night, but softer, homier, and very doable.

    No perfection. Just tiny wins that add up.

    What is a closing shift at home?

    It’s a 15–20 minute routine you do most nights:

    • put things back,
    • clear the surfaces you touch first in the morning,
    • prep one or two small “tomorrow” items.

    When you wake up, your space is already on your side. Your brain doesn’t have to fight clutter or decisions before coffee. Yes, please.

    Why this works (and feels good)

    • Less visual noise. Clear counters = calmer thoughts.
    • Fewer morning decisions. Clothes, bags, and breakfast pieces are ready.
    • Fast momentum. Starting the day with a win makes the next win easier.

    I’m all about simple, repeatable steps that don’t require a whole weekend or a full makeover. This is that.


    Your 20-Minute Plan (follow this order)

    1) Kitchen Reset (6 minutes)

    • Dishes in the dishwasher or drying rack.
    • Wipe counters + stove.
    • Quick sweep or start the robot vacuum if you have one.

    Swap internal link: [Kitchen Reset Guide]

    2) Living Room Sweep (4 minutes)

    • Toss trash/recycling.
    • Fold throws, stack remotes, return cups to the sink.
    • Do a two-minute “pick up what doesn’t belong” walk.

    Swap internal link: [Laundry Zone Makeover] (great for basket systems near the living room)

    3) Bedroom Glow-Down (4 minutes)

    • Clear the “clothes chair.”
    • Lay out tomorrow’s outfit—shoes included.
    • Set a soft light or diffuser if you like; send your brain the “we’re winding down” signal.

    4) Tomorrow Prep (6 minutes)

    • Pack bags + lunches, fill water bottles.
    • Set the coffee maker or tea kettle.
    • Two-minute glance at tomorrow’s calendar.

    Swap internal link: [5-Minute Morning Reset] to pair with this routine


    Real-Life Snapshots

    Tasha, mom of three
    She starts the robot vacuum, loads the last dishes, and drops school forms straight into the backpacks. Morning Tasha isn’t hunting papers—she’s pouring cereal.

    Miguel, studio apartment
    He does “touch it once”: keys in the tray, blanket folded, counter wiped. The whole place reads calm in five minutes.

    Rae, night-shift nurse
    Her closing shift happens at 9 a.m. after work. Same steps, different clock. It still works—because it’s about transitions, not time of day.


    Make it even easier

    • Use the 80/20 rule. Leave a little open space (about 20%) in drawers and bins so tidying has somewhere to go.
    • Timer trick. Set 10 minutes. When it dings, stop or keep going if you’re in the groove.
    • Share the load. Give each person one job: dishes, floors, or entry drop zone.
    • Weekend boost. Pick one hotspot and declutter just what doesn’t belong there—nothing extra.

    Simple Closing-Shift Checklist

    • ☐ Dishes done or running
    • ☐ Counters + stove wiped
    • ☐ Quick sweep or robot vacuum started
    • ☐ Living room reset (trash, throws, surfaces)
    • ☐ Clothes put away + tomorrow’s outfit set
    • ☐ Bags/lunches packed, water bottles filled
    • ☐ Coffee/tea ready, calendar peeked

    Tip: Print and laminate this. Dry-erase checkmarks feel satisfying.


    FAQs

    What if I miss a night?
    Start again tomorrow. No guilt, just a reset.

    How long should it take?
    Aim for 15–20 minutes. If that feels heavy, try the “lite” version: dishes + counters + bags.

    Where do I start if everything feels messy?
    Begin with the sink. Clear, wash, wipe. Then the counter right next to it. That’s your runway.


    Ready for your calm-morning era?

    Do tonight’s closing shift and let tomorrow feel lighter. For a head start, grab my Closing Shift PDF—it pairs with this routine and keeps the steps front and center on your fridge.


    Leave a comment

  • 🕯 The Art of a Slow Thanksgiving: Finding Peace in the Pause

    Every year, we promise ourselves we’ll make Thanksgiving “simpler.”
    And yet somehow, the week arrives and our calendars, grocery lists, and hearts all feel full to bursting.

    But what if this year, “doing less” wasn’t just a goal — it was the tradition?

    🌾 Step 1: Redefine “Perfect”

    Perfect doesn’t mean polished—it means present.
    A crooked candle, mismatched napkins, or a pie that cracked in the oven? That’s life reminding you it’s real. Let it be real.

    🍂 Step 2: Create a Morning Ritual

    Before the kitchen wakes up, take five minutes to breathe in the stillness.
    Open a window and feel the crisp air.
    Light a candle and whisper a few words of gratitude.
    Ground yourself before the noise of the day begins.

    🧡 Step 3: Focus on Connection, Not Performance

    Instead of trying to impress, try to include.
    Invite others to chop vegetables, set the table, or stir the gravy. These little shared moments are what people remember—more than any perfect centerpiece.

    🕊 Step 4: Protect a Quiet Moment

    When the meal is over and dishes pile up, don’t rush.
    Step outside for a moment, take in the sunset, and listen. Let your body rest before your hands return to work.

    ✨ Step 5: End with Intention

    That night, before bed, write down three things that truly mattered.
    Not the details, not the dishes—the feelings.
    Carry those forward into the rest of your season.


    Final Thought

    Thanksgiving isn’t a performance. It’s a pause.
    It’s a gentle reminder that joy often hides in the slow moments—warm light, shared laughter, and the comfort of simply being together.

    Share your favorite holiday activity.

    Leave a comment

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