According to the EPA, Americans generate 25% more trash than usual between Thanksgiving and New Years. That’s about an additional 25 million tons.* We’re talking a LOT of empty containers of eggnog and canned yams! Not to mention all the cards, paper and gift boxes that still get thrown in the garbage instead of the recycle bin. This season, make a promise and an effort to gift Mother Earth. Here are a few ways to start: Read more.
Clutter
Repurpose Your Wine Tote – Tip #1
You don’t have to be a wine drinker to appreciate those cute tote bags. Everyone from Trader Joe’s to Fred Meyer offers bottle carrier bags in a variety of materials and patterns. I find the pocketed totes perfect for storing/transporting any number of things. First tip: shoes. These make for great portable shoe bags. Holds three pairs with each shoe getting its own pocket. For optimum protection, place clean shoe heel in first with sole facing out. Works best with low heels/flats/sandals. Tote fits easily into a closet for storage or in the back seat of your car for travel. Eco note: Whether they are poly or jute, reusable bags only help the environment if they are reUSED a lot. Be sure you get the most mileage from yours by thinking creatively and acting resourcefully. Thank you for helping to make the earth a clearer place.
New Review for Wisdom Cards
This just in from a new customer in North Carolina. So lovely to know that the Wisdom Cards are shining their light near and far! “There are so many things to love about this deck. There is a combination of inspiration and practicality which I think is fantastic. I love that the cards are their own guidebook. One side displays a beautiful photograph, title and keyword, and then a detailed message appears on the back of the card. I am very happy that the production of the deck was environmentally friendly. Finally, it was a pleasure to do business with Jane. She is a very conscientious and gracious seller. I recommend these cards and her shop very highly.” Don’t have your deck yet? Order today and start living with a clear place!
Say YES to Less!
You win on so many levels when you clear out your stuff.
This PDX homeowner saw firsthand the magic that can happen when you say YES to clearing out. Find out more and get FREE ACP Sorting Guide.
View “Say YES to Less” from A Clear Place.
HAPPY EARTH DAY … thanks for making it a clear one!
Clear Your Desk in Simple Steps
Put a positive spin on tax week by using the time to clear your space of paper clutter. Sorting can seem like a daunting task but it doesn’t have to be. Here’s an abbreviated approach to my usual ACP Sorting guideline to get you started:
Put two paper grocery bags on the floor by your desk/counter. Label bags: KEEP and GOES. Depending on how high the piles, you may want to use boxes instead of bags. Sort items into one of the above categories. Aim for 80% or more of the stuff to go. Continue this process until surface is cleared. It may require several trips to the recycle curb and that’s ok. No judgments here. Unless you are involved in a litigation, bankruptcy or other legal process, anything dated older than 6 months goes. If you are undecided about an item, put it in the KEEP bag temporarily. Next, go through the KEEP bag and take out anything that can be regifted or donated (calendars, stationery, office supplies). Keep only what is current and absolutely necessary to have on hand for your lifestyle. Then designate a place for each of your KEEP items i.e. a file folder, plastic bin. Make sure those containers are labeled and within easy access. Limit your surface display to three items only and resist the temptation to set anything else down on your now clear desk top.
EXTRA: Shift the energy by placing a stem or two of fresh flowers on your desk. A small plant works well, too. Use glass objects to reflect natural light and brighten your work area. Include a smile factor like a favorite card or small toy. Finally, let go of the fear factor. Most of our paper clutter comes from credit card and bank statements and receipts. With today’s online banking and digital records, there’s very little that can’t be replaced if need be. If you’re still unsure about purging paper, here’s a good guideline to help ease the letting go – Receipts: Which to Keep.
Backyard Chore Brightens My World
Clearing out old stuff absolutely has its rewards. In the process of letting go, we can uncover surprising gifts. You just have to be open to the release. Read about the treasure I unearthed in my own backyard. Spring Gift Under the Junipers
Getting Clear about The NEXT America
If you haven’t yet read Paul Taylor’s, The Next America, put it on your must list. Click here to find out why it’s a book not to be missed. And what you can do to be a part of the solution.
The time is ripe for clearing, sharing and creative lifestyle choices.
Ready to start the ball rolling? Get “no blame, no shame” help. Remote or hands on options available. Click here to get the Green light!
Keeping Cool by Getting Clear
Hot temps got you feeling drained? Want to know the simplest way to lower your AC bill and raise your spirits? How about a visual cooling off moment with the gorgeous Clarity card. Click here to get cool! PS: Be sure to read the latest fan mail.
Before and After – Light Matters
Taking a space from dreary to dynamite requires effort but maybe not as much time or money as you might think. Click here to read Part One of the before and after on this garage/cottage redo: Light Matters!
Wheel Gratitude
Your car is a rolling reflection of your attitude and your energy … it’s important to extend your clearing practices out to your wheels.
Do you have a great relationship with your car? Want an even better one?
A Clear Place 