March Into Simpler Spaces - inside and out

INSIDE

March is the window between the cozy hibernation of winter and the high energy of spring. We naturally feel the urge to clean, simplify and plan for the seasons ahead. If you are ready to transition to a lighter, more organized home, here is a manageable plan to work with this month. Take the first step and get started or reach out. I can work with you.

1. Closets and Clothes - professional organizers use the Core 4 Method. I highly advocate this system applied in every part of your life but particularly when it comes to wardrobes. Clear out (empty the space you are working on), Categorize ( put all jeans together etc. ) Cut Out ( if you really, really haven't worn something in years - let it go. If you have 20 of an item - let some go), Contain (store items).

   
   

2. Hidden Clutter - drawers. You can start with one drawer in any part of your home; kitchen, bathroom, side table. Once again whenever you can gather all like items together. If you have measuring tapes in four different places - pick one dedicated space . Occasionally I have mutliples like scissors in my kitchen and in my office but normally keep one spot. Trust me - it works!

   
   

3. Clean - windows, appliances, cars, rugs, tile. If you can hire a professional detailer or carpet cleaner. They are experts and it saves so much time and is done so well.

   
   

4. Fix/repair/finish - I like to make a list per room of what is in need of repair or a not completely finished project. If you have ever decided to sell a house and finished all these details believe when I tell you it's something you always wished you had done sooner.

   
   

5. Create sustainable habits - put away clutter daily. Take 15 minutes at the end of the day and do a sweep of your space.

OUTSIDE

Assess your outdoor space - do you enjoy being outside or more looking at a beautiuful garden space or yard. If you would like to be in your garden more do you have a dedicated space for it? There are so many ways to create one for so many different budgets. First and foremost - plan ahead - make your dream space no matter how big or small.

Tidying up and seed starting!

1. Tune up mower and power equipment, sharpen saw and pruners. Schedule irrigation and pool opening.

   
   

2. In the garden once temperature is in the 50s(F) remove all the dead branches from shrubs and trees. Cut back perennials and rake up leaves you didn't get to in the spring.

   
   

3. Seed starting:

   Warm -Season Crops to allow 6 - 8 weeks of growth for planting in May

   Cold - Hardy Crops: sow onions, leeks, broccoli, cabbage, cauliflower now for early spring planting.

   Annual flowers: Start marigolds, zinnias, cosmos, and snapdragons for summer blooms.

   
   

4. Direct Sowing: If the soil is workable (not frozen or muddy), you can sow peas, spinach, radishes, and sweet peas directly into the garden.

   
   

5. Amendments: Add a layer of compost to vegetable beds to prepare for spring planting.

t's the month where we naturally feel the urge1. to shed the "winter weight" of our homes—the extra blankets, the holiday lingering, and the general indoor clutter.

If you’re ready to transition into a lighter, more organized space, here is a manageable plan to tackle your home this month.