The first cool morning of fall always catches me by surprise.
This week, I pulled on my old gray sweater, poured my coffee, and looked around the kitchen. And I had the same thought I have every September.
The holidays will be here before I know it. And this house feels full.
A couple of years ago, I waited too long. I tried to clear everything the week before Thanksgiving. I did the kitchen, the hall closet, and the guest room, all in four days.
By Thanksgiving morning, my back ached, my knees were sore, and I was too tired to enjoy my own family. (I fell asleep in my chair before the pie was served.)
So last year, I did it differently.
I started at the end of September. I did a little at a time, three short sessions a week, all the way through fall. By the time the grandkids came for Christmas, the house felt lighter. And so did I.
It worked so well that I’m starting again this week. And this time, I wrote the whole thing down for you, so we can do it together.
This is my 12-week fall and winter decluttering plan for women over 70. It’s slow, it’s gentle, and it leaves you with energy for the people you love. Let me walk you through it.
How This Plan Works
Before we get to the weeks, here are the simple rules that make this plan work.
First, you only do three short sessions a week. I do mine on Monday, Wednesday, and Friday mornings, right after breakfast. Pick the days that suit you best.