2016 is around the corner and the theme for this year is return to simplicity.

Here are a ten ways to simplify your living space in the new year.

1. Clear the Clutter Then Organize. It is never about having enough space it is about having too much stuff.

2. Keep only one of an item. Who needs 5 ice cream scoops?

3. Shred old paperwork. Piles begin when old paperwork is ignored.

4. Get rid of “what if” clothing. Every time you look at these clothes in your closet it’s depressing. Wear what you love and looks good on you and get rid of the rest.

5. Go Paperless. Use this option when asked to get paperless receipts sent to you and keep in an electronic file.

6. Make Lists. Keeping a list helps you stay organized on a daily basis.

7. Keep a shopping bag in your closet. When you try something on and don’t like the way you look or feel in it drop the item in the bag to consign or donate.

8. Take 10 minutes and a garbage bag and scan your house. If you see something that is broken, outdated, or you just don’t love it. Let it go!

9. Have a place for everything! I know you have heard this before but it’s so true. That’s how the junk drawer was invented.

10. Change your hangers. No list would be complete without mentioning hangers. It is an inexpensive solution and you will see instant results.

Make these small changes in 2016 and you will not only simplify your life but you will notice significantly less stress in the new year.

Happy New Year!

Today I turn 53. What is different about today than any other day? I am a year older and a year wiser.

A few years ago I saw Jane Fonda on The Oprah Show. She said “if just one young person would listen to the advice about aging from an older person they would be one step ahead of the game” and it has stuck with me.

Here are a few of my tips to those of you out there playing the aging game.

-At 50 I thought I was old and now I look back and realize 50 is young and it has only been 3 years!

-Take a deep breathe, it really does work.

-Listen to your body it never lies.

-Everyday is a gift and realizing this is the best present you can give yourself.

-Keep busy especially helping others. It makes you feel like you have a purpose.

-Exercise but don’t kill yourself. If you end up injured you don’t exercise at all!

-Listen to music. It’s calming and brings back memories.

-You will never be 20, 30, 40 or 50 again so stop looking back and stay in the present.

-Everybody has problems and I mean everybody. Some are just better at hiding it.

-Tell the people in your life how important they are to you. You will never regret it.

-Reality TV is not reality!

-Don’t make any important decisions in your life without a good night sleep.

Gotta run and take my husband to the Orthopedic Specialist to deal with his back pain. This is the reality of turning 53!

Quote via

Today’s quote seemed the perfect fit. I am speaking to a group about the importance of clearing the clutter and getting organized.

I know I will be saying theses words quite a few times…YOU CAN!