Cleaning your house while your kids are still growing is like shoveling the walk before it stops snowing. ~Phyllis Diller

De-cluttering your home isn't really as hard as you might think. Before you take the plunge to get started, you first need to create an action plan. Take the time to get a realistic view of your clutter. Try to create a written plan and zoom in on the most cluttered space and start there.

Don't forget to start a "Bit's & Pieces" mosaic tile treasure box with those newly discovered found objects. What an exciting way to reuse and recycle the clutter in your life. Now may be a good time to focus and prioritize. Write down your clutter-free dream and work on the one area that will provide you with the most satisfaction to move forward.

Before you take the plunge and get started with your spring cleaning project, you first need to create an action plan. Take a few minutes to take a realistic view of your clutter.

Here are a few simple steps that continue to help me believe that my life is somewhat organized.

1. Write down your largest organizational nightmare & start there.
2. Create a clutter-free dream and write it down, something like....I would love to see my countertops or dining room table.
3. Gather 4 large boxes. Label each one as a sell, donate,throw and treasures.
4. Set a timer for 60 minutes and don't stop until the buzzer goes off.
5. Only touch each object once while distributing it into the proper box. Don't become attached to it once it has left your fingertips. Your first impression is always the best one.
6. Finish clearing the area you have chosen and get out the cleaning supplies. Move the sell, donate and throw boxes into the next area you plan on conquering, if they're not already full.
7. Finish cleaning the designated area.
8. File, fold or hang any treasures that can be immediately be put away.
9. Step back and relish a job well done or at least until the kids come home.
10. Take a break or better yet get outside and go for a walk.

Creative Ideas for Your Stuff

Before you visit thrift stores, flea markets, antique malls, estate sales and auctions for pieces to transform, clear out your own spaces to see what you can discover.

The key to creating treasure from trash is to look at things in a different light and be open to possibilities.

Remember, most wobbly furniture can be strengthened with glue, dings can be covered up and stains can be cut out.

You don't need a huge budget for a creative dramatic change. Your furniture may not be glamorous, but it's functional -- you may not need to buy a new table or desk.

Bringing new life to objects is a perfect spring project. Please be sure to check out our mosaic tile workshop schedule that is now posted online @ http://www.225waterstreet.com
Create your own workshop to bring in the treasures you've discoverd in your quest for a clutter-free home.

225 Water Street Creative Arts & Holding Company
225 Water Street • Jordan MN 55352
Phone: 952.492.6442
Email: mailbag@cre8tivegang.com