You’re looking at what I found behind the dryer in my new apartment. Yep. A collection from the former tenant of stuff that went astray. At least nothing had legs. (I’ve heard some pretty scary stories involving bones and antennas.) Keeping it clear around appliances is an often overlooked task. Do your space – and your energy bill – a favor. Put time on your calendar to check and clean these hidden areas at least twice a year. Use a vacuum nozzle or microfiber brush to remove dust and lint build-up behind and under your washer/dryer. And, of course, empty the lint tray after every use. Clean ducts annually. In the kitchen, pull that fridge out and vacuum the coils. Wash the floor and wall before sliding back in place. If you can’t move the stove, at least pull out the bottom storage drawer (if your model has one) and clean the newly exposed area that way. It’s a hassle well worth the effort. And who knows? You might unearth a long lost treasure. Ready to clean some more? Here are some easy tips on cleaning the inside of appliances (including the garbage disposal) worth a look: Washington Post. Okay – one last favorite item on laundry that’s good to know anytime of the year. Read my tip on this easy energy saver!
earth friendly
The Energy of Passion
Find out why passion matters and view examples of two gals on opposite corners of the country who prove it’s never too late to explore your own. Also, get a neat repurposing packing tip and learn about a nonprofit whose mission combines education, recycling and art around the globe. View A Clear News November and Happy Thanksgiving!
How to Recycle Mattresses – Earth911.com
My recent mattress purchase seemed a good time to send out a reminder on recycling options. Most donation centers don’t accept mattresses anymore and the ones that do have gotten tighter with their standards. My fav recycling resource, Earth911, just posted this nice guide including how to disassemble your mattress in order to save it from the landfill. http://earth911.com/recycling-guide/how-to-recycle-mattresses/
Fall Clearing Tips, Free Deals and a Feisty Friend in Sept Enews
It’s here! A Clear Place September Enews. Meet my feisty 86 yr. old friend and learn how she’s still making a difference; get an update and helpful recycling link from Earth911; get a quick tip on organizing your clearing and download a FREE sorting guide. And, in honor of Autumn – the season of letting go – get FREE shipping on ACP Wisdom Cards. All this and more. Happy Fall and happy clearing! View Enews now.
Clear News March 2016
Matt Damon, Socks for Water, IKEA, and Earth Hour are all part of this month’s Clear News. Find out how you can help support Water.org in their global game changing programs. It’s tax time so I’ve included a reminder on what you do or don’t need to hang on to and tips on how to finally get on top of that paper clutter mountain. Plus, get some help with keeping your brain clear … something we can all use! View now.
Clear News Feb 2016
Learn about the queen of spices and how you can support efforts by Heifer Intl to raise its farmers out of poverty; peek inside a $20k home designed by Rural Studio; get an online tool that helps you determine the dollar value of your stuff; listen to my top picks for music guaranteed to put a wiggle in your clearing out tasks … and more. View Clear Ways to A Better World – February 2016. Enjoy!
New Format for ACP Clear News
Challenge: Find a better way to present multiple topics, links and graphics on one page that all open easily with mobile devices. It needs to look good and inspire action. Oh … it should also have a personal vibe and consistent quality. Something that’s professional yet warm and, of course, always clear in voice and message. Result: Today I launch my latest Clear News format … thanks to MailChimp and lots of pots of jasmine tea. Hope you enjoy it!
Not on the ACP mail list? Send me your email address to get the monthly ACP Clear News delivered directly to your inbox. Addresses are never shared or used for promotion.
ACP In the News
Prompted by next week’s workshop, Saying YES To Less (hosted by the Tualatin Public Library), the local Times did a nice feature on ACP. After the interview, I asked the reporter if he personally had experienced any issues with stuff. A young guy who recently went through a move, he admitted being surprised at how much he had accumulated in a short time and in finding things stored away that he had forgotten about. Yep. That’s a common tale. Dealing with stuff has no generation boundaries. It can get to the best of us … and bring out the worst in anyone. I love sharing the how to’s of getting and staying clear and the immediate relief it can bring to any space. And there’s no time like the present to start! Read the Times.
House Call for Ailing Space
“No blame, no shame” guidance for whatever is ailing your space.
Clutter issues? Sharing space?
Downsizing? Stuffed rooms?
Out of ideas?
House Call to the rescue! Perfect for figuring out where to start and for getting a fresh perspective on your space. No nonsense, practical steps. The perfect gift for you or anyone on your list. Options include onsite or online consultations. Contact me or view packages and purchase at the ACP Etsy shop. Make it a happy green holiday!
Where Stuff Matters
I just couldn’t share enough about this wonderful organization, so here’s a follow up to last week’s feature. Community Warehouse Communications Director, Rena Satre Meloy, took time from her busy schedule yesterday to give me the inside view of this bustling nonprofit. The warehouse was buzzing during my entire visit – a continual stream of donations coming in and going out. And just like their Tualatin location, everything was done with efficiency and a smile. Adjacent to the warehouse, we toured the Estate Store and as at their SW branch, I was impressed with the organization and clean and attractive displays. And such diverse items! Everything from a Murano glass chandelier to a nautical folding screen to a vintage doll complete with clothes and trunk. All at bargain prices with proceeds supporting the CW programs. Rena shared that an average of 40 families a week are outfitted with everything they need to set up house. An additional 20 families are serviced weekly at the Tualatin location. It’s amazing how much work can be accomplished by so few when the hearts are dedicated. Thank you, Rena, for being such a warm ambassador for a worthy and much needed cause. You guys are the real deal.
DONATE, SHOP & SUPPORT – Be mindful of stuff and get it/bring it where it matters. CW Estate Stores are open 7 days a week. Click here for address and hours. Watch here for more updates and ideas on helping our community by helping Community Warehouse. Don’t live in the PDX area? Visit the ACP Resources page or Contact me with your location and I’ll find an organization that can use your stuff. As always, thanks for making it a brighter world!
A Clear Place 