Pre-Holiday Decluttering Tips

Are you ready to waltz into the holiday season? I like to decorate the house on the day after Thanksgiving and enjoy the sights, smells, and sounds of Christmas until January 6th; it’s a magical time of year. When we got our Christmas tree into the house this year, it looked so puny. But have you ever noticed how even the littlest, most crooked tree always transforms into a perfect tree? Kinda like that Charlie Brown tree.

If you want some quick tips for decluttering before the holidays, check out this recent Real Simple article. Their tips for things to get rid of are too good not to share:

·      Old decorations you haven't used in two years (Last week I almost donated one my Mom gave me years ago and I’d never used…and then realized I had the perfect spot for it!)

·      The holiday card collection (especially those that are just signed…or even less personal, imprinted with no handwriting at all)

·      Old bikes and outgrown toys (Indy folks can donate their bikes to Freewheelin’ Bikes or Volunteers of America.)

·      Gifts you've never used (Seriously, it’s FINE to regift or donate, and don’t let that guilt take any more room in your head.)

·      Old linens and bath towels (These are great to donate to nonprofits that provide housing for refugees, veterans, victims of domestic abuse, LGBTQ youth, etc.; check the Decluttering list on the Spirit & Space website.)

·      Duplicate (and triplicate) kitchen tools (another great donation for nonprofits providing housing)

·      Winter clothing you aren't excited to wear (Purging your closet each year goes a LONG way, preventing bursting closets full of stuff you don’t really like or wear.)