Holiday Un-Decorating

Decorations

As you’re taking down the decorations look for ones that are worn out/broken and discard them. Only keep those that are special to you and will be used next year. Donate unwanted decorations that are in good condition. Make sure to have appropriate and clearly marked containers with labels on the outside so everything will be easily located next year.  Store like items together so you can pull out boxes as you need them.  Learn more…

Holiday and Winter Clothing

Sort through and donate winter coats, jackets, gloves, hats, and scarves that no longer fit or that your family hasn’t worn. Never going to wear that gift of a hand knitted snowman sweater? Donating to a thrift shop or charity makes sure it reaches someone who will.  Safenest is one local charity supporting women and children; they have donation bins throughout the valley.

Kids’ Toys

Holiday time is the ideal time to help your kids sort through their toys and books, and encourage them to pass on any they don’t use. For next year, suggest listing one new toy for charity for every two toys they list for themselves.  Here are a couple of organizations to get you started: Positively Kids, St. Jude

Food

Now that the holidays are over, it’s time to clean out your fridge, freezer, and pantry. Toss (or compost) anything from the fridge or freezer that you’re unlikely to eat. Do the same in your pantry, setting aside food that’s non-perishable and unexpired for donation.  One organization accepting donations is Three Square, a local food pantry providing ready-to-eat meals to those in need. 

Holiday Card List

The holiday season is best time to update everyone’s contact information. There are many ways and places to save names and addresses, but do you know what card you sent someone last year?  SendOutCards is a service that lets you see what you sent, to whom and when.

Before the next holiday season, become a PRO – Prepared, Ready & Organized. With just 15-20 minutes each day, you’ll discover a home that’s less cluttered for the year ahead.

By Tanya Allason – Tanya has been a Professional organizer since 1999.  She is currently assisting people with the organization of their homes, garages, closets and offices in NV, CA, IL & TX.

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