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Ten Uses for Dawn

Posted on by Dawn Link Posted in Cleaning, Moving, Paper Management, Time Management

Ten Uses for Dawn

Hmmm… got your attention, right? Which ‘Dawn’ am I referring to?

Well, my Facebook feed constantly displays clickbait suggesting multiple uses for WD-40, baking soda, vinegar, and, yes, Dawn dish soap. Let’s have a little fun and list ten uses each for Dawn, the dish soap, and Dawn, me, the Certified Professional Organizer.

Dawn, the dish soap:

  • Clean garden tools, grill grates, and tire rims
  • Remove sticky substances like gum, Silly Putty, and slime from hair
  • Blow bubbles!
  • Remove gummy residue from stickers and labels
  • Clean soap scum
  • Soak air filters
  • Unclog drains
  • De-ice steps and walkways: mix 1 teaspoon of Dawn dish soap, 1 tablespoon of rubbing alcohol, and 1/2 gallon hot/warm water and pour over walkways
  • Relieve poison ivy itches and keep the rash from spreading
  • Remove fleas from your dog instead of expensive shampoo

Dawn, the Certified Professional Organizer:

  • Declutter
  • Organize your paperwork
  • Customize and organize your files
  • Set up efficient office systems
  • Develop routines to keep you on track
  • Advise on time management
  • Provide motivational coaching
  • Prepare for moving; packing & unpacking; upsizing/downsizing
  • Set up bill paying systems
  • Help you efficiently use programs for your Mac or PC

As you can see, both ‘Dawn’s can be very useful for you. Please call and use me!

Photo: Pixabay

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Eh, Might as Well

Posted on by Dawn Link Posted in Procrastination, Productivity

Eh, Might as Well

Have you heard of the “eh, might-as-well” mindset? Apparently this started on Reddit, where someone described it as a brain trick for reframing a task into a convenience.

Here’s how it works: Going from the bedroom to the kitchen? Might as well take the laundry with you. Going to grab the mail? Might as well take the trash out since you’ll pass the trash can.

You can use it to complete tasks as well. Tell yourself you’ll pay one bill, fold one t-shirt, reply to one email, and you might find yourself saying, “Eh, might as well do the rest.”

Photo: Pixabay

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Winter Cleaning Hacks When Everyone Keeps Tracking in Snow

Posted on by Dawn Link Posted in Cleaning, Declutter, Winter

Winter Cleaning Hacks When Everyone Keeps Tracking in Snow

Winter is beautiful—until it ends up all over your floors. The minute the first snowflake hits the ground, it’s like everyone in the house suddenly forgets how to wipe their feet. Boots, puddles, salt, and mystery slush… your entryway becomes a crime scene.

However, with a few simple tricks, you can keep the chaos under control (and keep your sanity intact).

  1. Create a “landing zone” for the mess.
    Think of it like an airport for wet boots. A heavy-duty mat outside the door and another mat inside buys you time before the water hits the floors. Add a boot tray and—boom—melting snow has a place to go that isn’t your rug or your hardwood floors.
  2. Make slippers a house rule.
    It sounds bossy, but once people get used to swapping boots for cozy slippers, everyone’s happier (and cleaner). Keep a little basket of extra pairs for guests so that no one feels awkward.
  3. Keep a towel by the door—yes, really.
    A simple hand towel saves you from chasing puddles around the house. Quick swipe under the boots, problem solved. Bonus points if you toss a spare towel in your car, too.
  4. Vacuum more, sweep less.
    Winter dust and salt grains are sneaky. A fast vacuum pass in high-traffic areas does more than a broom ever could, and it keeps that gritty feeling off your floors.
  5. Declutter the entryway.
    The less stuff sitting around, the easier it is to clean up the wet footprints that inevitably appear. Hooks, baskets, and a designated spot for everything make winter mess feel a lot more manageable.

Winter might insist on coming inside with you, but it does not have to take over your whole house. A few smart habits go a long way—and your floors will thank you in the spring.

Photo: Pixabay

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Using Winter as Your Secret Organizing Superpower

Posted on by Dawn Link Posted in Declutter, Winter

Using Winter as Your Secret Organizing Superpower

Winter gets a bad rap for being dark, cold, and full of reasons to stay inside… but honestly, that’s exactly why it is the perfect season to get your house organized.

Think about it: you’re already indoors more. The pace slows down. The social calendar chills out (literally). Suddenly, all those little projects you’ve ignored all year start whispering your name—stuffed closets, mystery drawers, that corner of the basement you pretend doesn’t exist. Winter is basically giving you permission to deal with them.

Treat winter like your annual home reset. While the weather outside is doing whatever it wants, take an hour here and there to sort one tiny area at a time. A shelf. A drawer. A basket that somehow became the Bermuda Triangle of mail. It’s amazing how much progress you can make when you tackle things in small wins instead of trying to “organize the whole house” in one heroic (and impossible) weekend.

Plus, winter organizing feels different. It’s cozy. You can put on soft socks, sip something warm, and declutter while a candle burns nearby. It’s basically self-care with a side of productivity.

Here’s the best part: by the time spring shows up with all its energy and sunshine, your house is already in great shape. You get to skip the big “spring cleaning panic” and enjoy the season instead of spending it knee-deep in forgotten sweaters and expired pantry items.

If winter’s going to keep you indoors anyway, you might as well let it work in your favor. Grab a blanket, pick a small project, and let the season help you get your space (and your sanity) back.

Photo: Pixabay

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New Year, New Attitude About Stuff

Posted on by Dawn Link Posted in Declutter, New Year's Resolutions, Stress

New Year, New Attitude About Stuff

Every January, your house sighs with relief. The holiday decorations go back in their bins, the wrapping paper is finally out of sight, and suddenly you can see your countertops again. That is when it hits you: this is the version of your home you want all year.

This year, make a simple New Year’s resolution: keep the clutter out—out of the house, out of the closets, and most importantly out of your brain.

I am not talking about becoming a minimalist who owns three bowls and a plant. I mean the slow, sneaky buildup of “stuff I might need someday” that follows you around like a guilt-trip. If you haven’t used it in a year, it’s time to thank it, donate it, or toss it. (Sorry, mismatched Tupperware lids. Your time has come.)

Also “future you” should no longer be responsible for cleaning up after “current you.” If you take something out, put it back. If you open a package, the packaging goes straight to recycling. If you buy something new, something old must leave. And yes, that rule includes clothes… which means it might be time to part ways with the jeans you’ve been hoping will magically fit again since 2016.

The best part? Clearing clutter instantly makes life feel quieter, calmer, and a little less like you’re starring in a reality show called Help, I Can’t Find My Keys. When your space is lighter, your brain is lighter. And honestly? That feels better than any shiny new planner or inspirational quote.

Here’s to a new year with less stuff, more space, and a home that doesn’t require a search-and-rescue mission every time you open a drawer. Cheers to keeping it simple—and keeping the clutter out.

Photo: Pixabay               

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Wishing you a Bright Peaceful New Year

Posted on by Dawn Link Posted in Holidays, New Year's Resolutions

Wishing you a Bright Peaceful New Year

As the year draws to an end, it’s the perfect time to pause, take a deep breath, and appreciate how far you have come. Whether this year was full of growth, change, or simply getting through: You did it.

The start of a new year brings a clean slate, fresh opportunities, and the chance to reset your priorities. Instead of making endless resolutions, consider setting gentle intentions like more laughter, more rest, or more time spent doing what truly matters to you.

Thank you for being part of this space over the past year. Your support means so much. Here’s to a new year filled with peace, purpose, and plenty of small joys. 

Happy New Year! May it be your best one yet!

Photo: Pixabay

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Keeping Calm Amid Holiday Chaos

Posted on by Dawn Link Posted in Christmas, Holidays, Self Care

Keeping Calm Amid Holiday Chaos

The holidays are supposed to be joyful, but they can also become a whirlwind of shopping lists, social plans, and family expectations. Before you get swept up in the chaos, take a breath. A calmer season starts with a few simple mindset shifts.

First, let go of perfection. The cookies don’t need to be flawless, and the house doesn’t have to look like a magazine spread. Focus on what really matters: connection, laughter, and moments of rest.

Next, protect your time. Schedule downtime the same way you would any event. A quiet evening at home or a walk in fresh air can do wonders for your stress level.

Finally, remember that saying “no” is a complete sentence. You don’t have to attend every gathering or take on every task. Simplifying your commitments helps you show up more fully for the things you truly enjoy.

The holidays will always be a little busy, but with a calm heart and clear boundaries, they can still feel peaceful and full of joy, setting the standard for calmer ones to come.

Photo: Pixabay

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Why You Should Hire a Professional Home Organizer Instead of Going It Alone

Posted on by Dawn Link Posted in DIY

Why You Should Hire a Professional Home Organizer Instead of Going It Alone

Trying to tackle clutter on your own can feel overwhelming. I mean where do you even start? While DIY organizing sounds budget-friendly, bringing in a professional home organizer can save you time, energy, and even money in the long run.

A professional organizer sees your home with fresh eyes and a clear plan. She can quickly identify what’s working, what’s not, and how to create systems that fit your lifestyle, not just look pretty for a week. She knows how to make the most of your space, whether that’s rethinking closet layouts or setting up storage that’s easy to maintain.

Plus, organizers help with the emotional side of decluttering. It’s hard to make decisions about sentimental items or years of accumulated stuff, but a pro provides gentle guidance and accountability to keep you moving forward.

In the end, hiring a professional organizer isn’t just about having a tidy home — it’s about creating calm, order, and more time to enjoy life.

Bonus, if you are a DIY’er, virtual organizing is a very cost-effective approach to helping you feel less overwhelmed and supported throughout your organizing project.

Photo:Pixabay

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How to Write a Thank-you Note that Sounds Genuine

Posted on by Dawn Link Posted in Gifts, How To

How to Write a Thank-you Note that Sounds Genuine

A genuine thank-you note can really stand out in a world full of quick “thanks!” texts. Here’s how to make yours feel heartfelt and natural rather than stiff or generic:

  1. Start with something personal. Instead of jumping right into “thank you,” begin with a warm greeting or small personal touch: “I’ve been thinking about your help last week…” or “I just wanted to tell you how much your support meant to me…” This sets a sincere, conversational tone.
  2. Say exactly what you’re thankful for. Be specific. Mention the act, gift, or kindness directly. “Thank you for spending your afternoon helping me pack up my apartment.” or “Your homemade soup was the perfect comfort when I was under the weather.” Specific details show you noticed and appreciated their effort.
  3. Explain why it mattered. This is the emotional heart of the note — why their gesture meant something to you. “It made a stressful day so much easier.” or “It reminded me how lucky I am to have a friend who always shows up.”
  4. Add a warm closing thought. End with something that reinforces your connection. “I can’t wait to return the favor soon.” or “Let’s catch up over coffee next week — my treat!” Then close with something that fits your tone: Warmly, With gratitude, Love, All my thanks, etc.

Example of a genuine thank-you note:
Hi Sarah,
I just wanted to tell you how much I appreciated your help organizing the fundraiser. Your calm energy and clever ideas made everything run so smoothly. I learned so much from you — and I had fun doing it! I’m grateful to have someone like you to team up with. Let’s celebrate soon — coffee or lunch on me.
Warmly,
Dawn

Photo: Pixabay

 

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Holiday Gifting Beyond the Stuff

Posted on by Dawn Link Posted in Goals

Holiday Gifting Beyond the Stuff

The holidays do not always have to mean shopping bags and wrapping paper. In fact, some of the most memorable gifts aren’t things you can put in a box at all. If you’re ready to skip the clutter and give something more meaningful, here are a few ideas.

Gift experiences. Tickets to a concert, a cooking class, or a museum pass create memories that last far longer than another sweater.

Give your time. Offer a “coupon” for a home-cooked meal, babysitting, or even just a coffee date. It’s thoughtful, personal, and priceless.

Subscriptions and memberships. A streaming service, audiobook subscription, or a local gym membership can bring joy month after month.

Homemade gifts. Bake cookies, put together a playlist, or write a heartfelt letter. These are simple but always appreciated.

Charitable gifts. Donate in someone’s name to a cause they care about—it’s a way to spread holiday cheer beyond your circle.

At the end of the day, the holidays are about connection, not stuff. When your gift shows you’ve thought about what makes someone happy, it becomes something they’ll truly treasure—no wrapping required.

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