Cassandra Aarssen's Blog, page 9

10 Organizing Must-Haves for a Clutter-Free Home

There are 10 home organizing systems that most tidy homes have and most messy homes don’t.  And the good news is that once you create them, it’s SO much easier to keep your space tidy and clean all the time!

1. The Action File

This is a game-changer! An action file is a designated spot for all those important papers you need to deal with—bills to pay, forms to sign, or invitations to RSVP. It’s not for reference papers but for urgent ones.

Set up your action file where you naturally pile papers. It could be a file folder, a magazine rack, or even an old container. The key? Schedule a weekly date to go through it and tackle the tasks.

2. Command Center

A command center is like the control panel for your home. It can include:

A family schedule (I love the Skylight Frame for this—color-coded schedules for everyone!)Meal plansA chore list

If digital isn’t your thing, try a household management binder (you can download a free one here)  This’ll be your home’s instruction manual, with everything from medical info to emergency contacts in one spot. 

3. Important Documents

No more birth certificates in the bathroom or passports in sock drawers! Gather your essential documents like wills, passports, and social insurance cards in one spot. Better yet, use a fireproof safe for added security. Trust me, it’ll make things a whole lot easier when you need to find those important papers (and it’ll make it easier for others to find as well) 

4. Cleaning Station

Where do you keep your vacuum or mop? If it’s “out in the kitchen,” it’s time for a change. Create a cleaning station with:

Over-the-door racks for cleaning suppliesA closet or small cabinet for your vacuum (bonus points if it has a charging spot!)A cleaning caddy for easy transport around the house5. A Zoned Kitchen

Think of your kitchen as a map with zones. Keep like items together: spices with spices, baking supplies with baking supplies, and so on. Periodically rezone your kitchen to avoid things getting scattered over time. This makes cooking faster and keeps your kitchen tidier.

6. Laundry System

Laundry chaos is a real thing. Here’s what you need:

A spot for dirty clothesA temporary home for clean clothes (hello, stackable laundry baskets!)Hooks for “too dirty to put away but too clean to wash” clothes like jeans or hoodiesA solution for air-drying clothes (an over-the-door hook works great!)7. A Random Stuff Bin

Not a junk drawer, but a home for those “sometimes useful” things like carpet tape or spare parts. Limit yourself to one bin. When it’s full, declutter. This keeps random clutter from sprinkling all over your home.

8. Everyday Essentials

Batteries, light bulbs, and furniture pads shouldn’t be hiding all over your house. Create labeled bins or baskets for these everyday household items. You’ll always know where to find them!

9. A Donation Station

Tidy homes declutter constantly. Set up a donation bin in your closet or garage. As soon as you decide you don’t need something, pop it in the bin instead of putting it back in its old spot. This keeps your home clutter-free.

10. A Medicine Organization System

Medicine doesn’t belong in your kitchen (unless it’s something you take daily). Use baskets or turntables in your linen closet to sort medications by type (pain relief, allergies, etc.). It’s quick, efficient, and frees up valuable kitchen space.

Having these 10 organizing systems in place can transform your home from chaotic to calm. Start small, pick one system to implement, and see the difference it makes. Remember, the goal isn’t perfection; it’s progress!

Download the FREE Basic Home Management Binder Here
Download the MEGA Home Management Binder Here

Organizing products I love and use:
Action File Box: https://www.containerstore.com/s/office/desktop-collections/stockholm-collection/bigso-desktop-organizer/123d?productId=11018984
Tidy Tote: https://urlgeni.us/amazon/MQpgQ
Laundry Hamper with Handles: https://www.containerstore.com/s/closet/hampers-carts/white-stackable-laundry-basket-with-grey-handles/12d?productId=10030934
Slim Line Felt Hangers: https://urlgeni.us/amazon/57j0o
Skylight Frame: https://urlgeni.us/amzn/VxLeD

PRODUCTS I RECOMMEND TO MAKE LIFE EASIER:

1. Roomba: https://urlgeni.us/amzn/RoombaCA
2. Tidy Tote: https://urlgeni.us/amzn/TidyToteCA
3. Spray Mop: https://urlgeni.us/amzn/spraymopca
4. Dusting Wand: https://urlgeni.us/amzn/SwifferCa

My Amazon Store: https://urlgeni.us/amazon/Clutterbug
Podcast Channel on Youtube: @ClutterbugPod
TikTok: https://urlgeni.us/tiktok/TikTokClutterbug
Instagram: https://urlgeni.us/instagram/ffwh
Facebook: https://urlgeni.us/facebook/Clutterbug

A Bedroom Makeover That’ll Inspire You to Get Organized!

A bedroom makeover that tackles clutter and creates a serene, Zen-like retreat.  Let me show you how—starting with Krista’s inspiring journey to a clutter-free bedroom.

Meet Krista

Krista is a busy mom and clothing store owner whose bedroom had become overwhelmed with piles of clothing. Like many of us, she found washing and folding easy but struggled to put things away. She dreamed of walking into her room and feeling peace rather than stress.

The First Step in her Bedroom Makeover

When I walked into Krista’s bedroom, I immediately noticed that her storage system wasn’t working. The closet was blocked with baskets of clothes, and her favorite items were left out in plain sight. This told me she needed a system tailored to her organizing style.

What’s Your Organizing Style?

Krista’s style is a mix of a “Ladybug” (prefers hidden storage) and a touch of “Butterfly” (out of sight, out of mind). Identifying your organizing style helps create solutions that work for you—and actually stick!

Step 1: Decluttering Tools 

Before you start decluttering, gather these essentials:

Time Capsule Box: A cardboard box for items you’re not ready to part with but don’t want in your closet.Clear Gifting Bags: Perfect for donating clothes while keeping them in great condition.Trash Bags: For clothing that’s beyond saving.Selling Zone: A designated spot for items you might want to sell.Step 2: The Yes/No Method

We used the “Yes/No” method to tackle Krista’s clutter. Here’s how it works:

Take one item at a time.Ask yourself:Have I worn it in the past year?Does it make me feel fabulous?Would I buy this again?If the answer isn’t a hard “yes,” it’s a “no.”

Pro Tip: Don’t focus on organizing while you declutter. Piling similar items together can distract you from the real task—deciding what to keep.

Tackling Sentimental Items

Christa had a few “goal” clothing pieces that she kept in hopes of losing weight. I call these “closet bullies” because they make you feel bad every time you see them. Instead, we put these items in a time capsule box and set a reminder to revisit them in a year.

Step 3: Quick Wins with Accessories

Once Krista’s clothing was sorted, we tackled her accessories. From hats to jewelry, we gathered everything in one place and focused on keeping only the favorites. The result? A streamlined, accessible system that works for her busy lifestyle.

The Power of an Hour: Bonus Spare Room Declutter

In addition to her bedroom, Krista’s spare room had become a catch-all for clutter. In just one hour, we:

Zoned a shelf for kitchen items.Created a memory zone for photos.Cleared out items for donation and trash.

This quick transformation showed how even small bursts of effort can make a huge difference.

The Results

After just two days of work, Christa’s bedroom makeover was complete.  What a transformation!  She let go of 15 bags of clutter, and her space now feels lighter and more functional. Best of all, she’s not missing a thing.

Ready to Declutter Your Space?

If you’re feeling inspired by Krista’s journey, start with your bedroom. Use the tools and tips shared here, and remember: it’s not about perfection. It’s about creating a space that makes you feel calm and happy.

Take it one step at a time, and you’ll be amazed at the transformation. You’ve got this!

The reveal:

Have you ever dreamed of walking into your bedroom and feeling like you’ve entered a luxurious boutique? Well, get ready to be inspired! This story takes us through an incredible closet makeover journey, filled with practical tips, emotional moments, and a little bit of DIY magic.  Krista’s bedroom was bursting at the seams. Clothes were scattered everywhere, her husband’s garments were relegated to a temporary rack, and the lack of storage made the space overwhelming. Krista is a self-proclaimed “ladybug organizer” — someone who loves quick, easy storage solutions. The goal was clear: create a functional and beautiful space that accommodates both her fashionista lifestyle and her husband’s wardrobe needs.

The Solution: IKEA PAX Wardrobes to the Rescue

The first step was bringing in the big guns: IKEA PAX wardrobes. These units are a game-changer, offering tons of customizable storage without taking up too much floor space. With a bit of measuring and some assembly magic, the wardrobes were ready to transform the room.

Why PAX WorksMaximizes Wall Space: It’s like gaining a walk-in closet.Customizable Storage: Shelves, drawers, and hanging space for everything.Compact Design: Takes up the same footprint as a dresser but offers exponentially more storage.Organizing Like a ProZoning Is Key

Once the wardrobes were built, it was time to tackle the clothes. Everything was laid out on the bed to create “zones”:

Krista’s Casual Wear: Sweaters, jeans, and everyday items.Krista’s Dressy Clothes: Stored neatly on hangers.Her Husband’s Wardrobe: Finally, a dedicated space for his clothes with drawers for socks, pajamas, and pants.Ladybug-Friendly Tips

Krista’s organizational style meant focusing on speed and simplicity. Here’s what worked:

Bins, Bins, Bins: Large, lidless bins keep things tidy and accessible. Dollar store finds kept the makeover budget-friendly.Drawer Dividers: Perfect for socks and underwear, these dividers make “basketballing” items into place a breeze.Clip-On Labels: Affordable and reusable labels ensure everything has a home — and stays there.

Adding Boutique Vibes

Accessories on Display

To make Krista’s space feel special, we repurposed items from around the house:

Dollar Store Risers: Bent into chic organizers for sunglasses and jewelry.Scarves and Bags: Artfully displayed on hooks to add personality and charm.DIY Jewelry Organization

Using old corkboards and push pins, we created a custom jewelry display. Not only is it practical, but it also doubles as wall art!

The Big Reveal

When Krista walked into her transformed bedroom, her reaction said it all: “I feel like the luckiest girl in the world!” With everything in its place, the space now radiates calm and joy. Even her husband, Jeff, has his own dedicated closet — a major upgrade from his previous garment rack setup.

Lessons Learned

Decluttering Is Step One: Letting go of items that no longer serve you creates space for what truly matters.Customize to Your Style: Whether you’re a “ladybug” like Krista or a detail-oriented organizer, design your storage to fit your habits.Treat Yourself: Adding boutique-like touches can make everyday routines feel luxurious.

Products Used in Krista’s Makeover:
Labels – https://urlgeni.us/amazon/I8ocP
Shoe Organizer – https://urlgeni.us/amazon/endzF
Shoe Organizer – https://urlgeni.us/amazon/Vt9Wx

Take the FREE 30-Day Declutter Challenge Here: https://clutterbug.me/declutterchallenge2024

Join the BUTT-KICKING 30-Day Organizing Bootcamp Here: https://clutterbug.thinkific.com/courses/30-day-organizing-bootcamp

PRODUCTS I RECOMMEND TO MAKE LIFE EASIER:

1. Roomba: https://urlgeni.us/amzn/RoombaCA
2. Tidy Tote: https://urlgeni.us/amzn/TidyToteCA
3. Spray Mop: https://urlgeni.us/amzn/spraymopca
4. Dusting Wand: https://urlgeni.us/amzn/SwifferCa

My Amazon Store: https://urlgeni.us/amazon/Clutterbug
Podcast Channel on Youtube: @ClutterbugPod
TikTok: https://urlgeni.us/tiktok/TikTokClutterbug
Instagram: https://urlgeni.us/instagram/ffwh
Facebook: https://urlgeni.us/facebook/Clutterbug

Tough Love – House Cleaning Motivation

Sometimes we all need a little kick in the pants to help us get started. In today’s podcast I’m giving you a little house cleaning tough love to motivate and jumpstart your 2025 journey towards a beautifully organized home.

Master Your Mornings with Amy Landino

Do you struggle to start your day off right? In this episode, I sit down with productivity expert Amy Landino uncover the secrets to a successful and energizing morning routine. Amy shares practical tips and real strategies to help you create the best morning routine tailored to your lifestyle.

From mindset shifts to actionable habits, this conversation is packed with inspiration to kickstart your day with purpose and positivity.

💻 Connect with Amy Landino: https://amylandino.com/

📱 Follow Amy on Social Media:

Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/officialamylandino/

Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/schmittastic

YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/amytv

 

Get Your Family Helping (Without the Complaints)

Struggling to get your family or spouse to pitch in around the house or embrace decluttering? In this episode, I share practical strategies to inspire teamwork at home and turn chaos into calm. Plus, I chat with Rod Jeter, founder of YBangry Couples Games, about his unique 14-step game designed to help couples resolve conflicts and strengthen their bond. Don’t miss this mix of actionable tips and relationship-transforming solutions!

Visit Rod’s website for more information on himself and his game YB Angry: https://ybangry.com/

Speed Cleaning Routine for a Spotless Home in 30 Minutes

The speed cleaning routine to get your home sparkling clean in just 30 minutes! Yes, you read that right. I’ve timed it.  Growing up, cleaning for the holidays was a major operation—a week-long event of scrubbing and polishing. But I’ve discovered the magic of shortcuts and hacks.

Now, I’m sharing them with you, so you can get a spotless home without spending your entire weekend cleaning. Bonus: here’s a free printable cleaning checklist to keep you on track.

Ok, let’s jump into my best Christmas speed cleaning hacks.

Step 1: Conquer the Bathroom

Gloves on, friends! We’re starting where it counts: the bathroom. Grab your favorite cleaner, spray down every surface, and let the cleaner do its thing.

Key Spots to Target:

Around the Toilet: Spray the base, wall, and all surrounding areas. If you’ve got boys in the house, you’ll thank me.Under the Toilet Seat Tabs: If it’s been a while, pop those tabs off and give them a good scrub. Trust me, it’s oddly satisfying (but not necessary for a speed clean, but you may want to circle back to this at some point).Finishing Touch: Drop a bleach tablet in the toilet tank to keep it fresh with every flush.Step 2: The “Spray and Walk Away” Tub Hack

Your bathtub doesn’t need elbow grease—it needs time.  A quick speed cleaning tip is to spray your tub and shower with your favorite cleaner …and walk away.  Let the cleaner handle the soap scum and then all you need to do is rinse it off after 15 minutes.  No scrubbing required!

Step 3: Tackle the Counters and Mirrors

Clear the clutter with a “Get Ready Bin”.  This is the container where you gather all your daily essentials that are sitting on the counter, put them into the bin and tuck it away when you’re cleaning.

For mirrors and glass, use a foaming glass cleaner. It’s quick, effective, and leaves zero streaks. Pair it with a microfiber cloth for shiny results in just 30 seconds.

Step 4: Main Living Areas

The Magic of the Tidy Tote: This is your secret weapon. Keep all your cleaning supplies in one tote, and use the empty middle space for things that don’t belong.   As you move from room to room, put away misplaced items without backtracking.

Clutter Catchers: Strategically place baskets around your living spaces for common clutter—toys, papers, or random items.  These baskets keep surfaces clear and make tidying up a breeze.

✨ Pro Tip: Take a picture of your living room or kitchen. You’ll notice clutter you’ve been blind to because you see it every day. Use this perspective to target trouble spots.

Step 5: Kitchen in 8 Minutes

Focus on Dishes: Spend five minutes loading the dishwasher or clearing the sink. Dishes are the biggest visual culprit of a messy kitchen.

Clear the Counters: Use your Tidy Tote to gather items that don’t belong. Just like in the living room, keep a clutter catcher in the kitchen for mail, papers, and odds and ends.

One Product Wonder: Choose a multi-surface cleaner that’s ammonia-free. It works on glass, stainless steel, wood, and countertops, saving you time and effort.

Step 6: Dust and Floors in a Flash

Dust: A Swiffer duster is your best friend for speed cleaning. It traps dust on light fixtures, cobwebs, and surfaces in seconds. For heavier buildup, you may need to wet dust, but a regular Swiffer pass every week or two keeps things manageable.

Mop: Forget the bucket and mop combo. Use a spray mop (like this one) with a reusable pad for quick cleanups. In one minute, you can tackle sticky spots or spills in your kitchen and living areas.

Step 7: De-Stink Your Home

The final touch to a clean house is a great smell.  Guests can smell what you can’t.  Light a candle or whip up a simmer pot with oranges and cinnamon sticks for an inviting holiday aroma.

There you have it: a sparkling home in just 30 minutes!

The secret to speed cleaning is consistency and smart shortcuts.   When you speed clean daily, your home never gets out of control and with these tips, even last-minute holiday guests will think you’ve been scrubbing all weekend.

Don’t forget to grab the free printable cleaning checklist here.  It breaks down each step and includes how much time you should be spending on each task to help keep you on track.

Oh and if you’re looking for to go a little deeper – here’s some deep cleaning motivation!

Happy cleaning, and enjoy your spotless, festive home!

PRODUCTS I RECOMMEND TO MAKE LIFE EASIER:

1. Roomba: https://urlgeni.us/amzn/RoombaCA
2. Tidy Tote: https://urlgeni.us/amzn/TidyToteCA
3. Spray Mop: https://urlgeni.us/amzn/spraymopca
4. Dusting Wand: https://urlgeni.us/amzn/SwifferCa

My Amazon Store: https://urlgeni.us/amazon/Clutterbug

Let’s Connect! 
TikTok: https://urlgeni.us/tiktok/TikTokClutterbug
Instagram: https://urlgeni.us/instagram/ffwh
Facebook: https://urlgeni.us/facebook/Clutterbug

10 Simple Holiday OrganizingTips for a Stress-Free Season

Here’s 10  holiday organizing tips for a stress-free season. The holidays are a magical time of year, but let’s be real—they can also bring a whole lot of stress and mess.

1. Create a Holiday Binder (Your New BFF)

One of the best things I’ve ever done is put together a holiday binder. Think of it as your holiday headquarters. Inside, you can track gifts, budgets, meal plans, and schedules. Planning is 90% of the battle, and this little gem has saved me countless hours year after year. And the best part? I’ve got a free printable version for you right here!

2. Pre-Plan Your Holiday Outfits

Say goodbye to those frantic “What do I wear?” moments before a party. Pick 5-7 outfits ahead of time—complete with accessories. I even use Ziploc bags for jewelry and hang them with the outfit. Whether it’s for a party, a shopping day, or a casual family dinner, having your outfits ready to go will save you from decision fatigue and you’ll look and feel fabulous.

3. Simplify Ornament Storage

Forget wrapping ornaments in paper or hoarding those original boxes. Grab some cardboard, cut it to fit your storage bin, and glue plastic cups onto it. These cups are perfect for holding ornaments—no wrapping needed. You’ll save time, space, and avoid those heartbreaking ornament casualties. Peep a super quick video tutorial here.

4. Declutter While You Decorate

Pro tip: If you’re not using certain decorations this year, it’s time to let them go.  Anything left in the box can be donated to someone who will love it.  Post your extras on a free site or donate them to a local thrift store. Decluttering now means less to pack up in January AND it helps someone else have a festive home.

5. Teach Kids to Declutter with a Santa Sack

Get the kids involved by giving them a “Santa Sack” or festive bag and asking them to fill it with toys or clothes they no longer use. It’s a fun way to teach them the joy of giving while making space for new gifts.

6. Use a Gift Giving Guide

Avoid those late-night “Did I forget someone?” panics with a simple gift-giving guide. Write down everyone you’re shopping for, gift ideas, budgets, and even which stores to visit. Keep this list with you, and you’ll save yourself multiple trips and a whole lot of stress. (Psst… there’s a printable version of this in the holiday binder you can download for FREE!)

7. Set Up a Wrapping Station

Gather all your wrapping supplies in one spot—scissors, tape, bows, tags, and paper. Use an under-the-bed storage bin, a laundry hamper, or even a bucket to keep it all together. Having a dedicated wrapping station means no more hunting for tape when you’re already late for a party.

8. Meal Plan for the Busy Weeks

I’m not a huge fan of meal planning, but during the holidays, it’s a lifesaver. Plan quick and easy meals (think crockpot dinners or frozen lasagnas) for the two weeks leading up to Christmas. This way, you’ll avoid the temptation of fast food and have more time for holiday fun.

9. Schedule Holiday Traditions

Don’t let your favorite holiday traditions get lost in the chaos. Whether it’s a weekly Christmas movie night, a trip to see the lights, or setting up a hot cocoa station, put these activities on your calendar. Setting reminders ensures you won’t forget to make those magical memories.  Want some more fun ideas – download this holiday bucket list for inspo!

10. Be Ready for Unexpected Guests

Prepare for surprise visitors with my handy acronym: GUEST.

G: Keep small, wrapped gifts on hand (candles, chocolates, etc.)U: Focus on keeping uncluttered living spaces (kitchen, living room, guest bathroom)E: Always have easy snacks available (store-bought cookies or crackers and cheese)S: Stock up on extra seating like foldable chairsT: Tidy up with a quick “10-minute reset” This way, you’re always ready to welcome guests without breaking a sweat.Bonus Tip: Don’t Forget to Breathe

It’s easy to get caught up in the hustle and bustle, but remember—the holidays are about joy and connection. Use these tips to simplify your season and focus on what really matters. Happy organizing and happy holidays!

Want more holiday organizing tips? Watch my holiday home challenge playlist here: https://www.youtube.com/playlist?list=PLzglswYcXP2j–1-t-QLSWD-GTCbmbIL4

Watch more organizing tips here: https://www.youtube.com/playlist?list=PLzglswYcXP2jmldtkZ4Mwp7y9wMgIjf-d

PRODUCTS I RECOMMEND TO MAKE LIFE EASIER:

1. Roomba: https://urlgeni.us/amzn/RoombaCA
2. Tidy Tote: https://urlgeni.us/amzn/TidyToteCA
3. Spray Mop: https://urlgeni.us/amzn/spraymopca
4. Dusting Wand: https://urlgeni.us/amzn/SwifferCa

My Amazon Store: https://urlgeni.us/amazon/Clutterbug
Podcast Channel on Youtube: @ClutterbugPod

Let’s Connect: 
TikTok: https://urlgeni.us/tiktok/TikTokClutterbug
Instagram: https://urlgeni.us/instagram/ffwh
Facebook: https://urlgeni.us/facebook/Clutterbug

How to Stay Organized When Life Feels Overwhelming

In this episode, I’m joined by Tyler Moore, a dad, teacher, and influencer known for his practical tips on keeping life organized. Tyler wears many hats—father, husband, teacher, and creator—all while maintaining a clean and tidy home. How does he manage it all?

Tyler opens up about his journey, sharing the habits and systems that help him balance a full-time teaching job, a thriving social media presence, and quality time with his family and friends. He also gives us a sneak peek into his upcoming book, packed with simple tips to help anyone stay organized and create more time for what matters most.

If you’ve ever wondered how to find balance in a busy life, this episode is full of relatable insights and practical advice to inspire your own journey.

Learn more about Tidy Dad here: https://thetidydad.com/

Pre-order Tidy Dad’s Book Here: https://thetidydad.com/preorder

Follow Tidy Dad on Social Media: 

Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/tidydad

Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/tidydad/

20 FREE Christmas Ideas to Create a Magical Holiday!

Here are 20 free (or nearly free) Christmas ideas to spread kindness, create cozy traditions, and enjoy festive fun with your family and friends.

The holidays don’t have to be expensive to be magical!

With a little creativity and some thoughtful traditions, you can create beautiful memories that bring joy and connection to the season.

Spread Kindness and Love This Holiday Season1. Gratitude Garland

Turn strips of paper into a gratitude garland with your family. Write down what you’re grateful for daily or weekly, then connect the strips into a chain. This doubles as heartfelt décor and a reminder of what truly matters.

2. Secret Santa Notes

Hide sweet notes for your loved ones with kind words or inspirational quotes. Slip one into a makeup case, tape one to the bathroom mirror, or tuck one under a pillow.

3. Christmas Treats for Wildlife

Make peanut butter-coated pine cones rolled in birdseed or string popcorn and cranberries for your backyard critters. This is a fun, hands-on way to give back to nature and enjoy watching animals appreciate your effort.

4. Mistletoe Moments

Hang mistletoe in your home, but instead of a kiss, give compliments! Whether it’s your child or a guest, brighten their day with a kind word every time they pass under it.

5. Random Acts of Kindness

Spread holiday cheer with simple acts of kindness like baking cookies for neighbors, shoveling a driveway, or paying for someone’s coffee. One fun tradition is “elfing” neighbors—leaving anonymous treats with a note that says, “You’ve been elfed!”  Download the printable note for free here so you can do your own “elfing” this season.😄

6. Adopt a Senior

Participate in programs that connect you with seniors in nursing homes who may not have family nearby. Spend time with them or gift them something small to make their holidays brighter.

Create Cozy Christmas Traditions7. Letters to Santa

Write letters about hopes and dreams for the coming year, then seal them away until next Christmas. Reflecting on last year’s wishes is a heartwarming way to see how far you’ve come.

8. Candles for Loved Ones

Honor loved ones who have passed by lighting a candle and sharing your favorite memories of them. It’s a meaningful way to include them in your holiday celebrations.

9. Family Christmas Playlist

Create a playlist with your family’s favorite holiday songs and share the link with extended family to add their favorites. It’s a great way to set the mood for gatherings.

10. Candlelit Dinner

Dim the lights, light candles, and enjoy a cozy family meal—even if it’s just pizza or spaghetti! The ambiance makes it feel special and memorable.

11. Christmas Movie Marathon

Snuggle up with blankets and watch holiday classics like Elf or Home Alone. Make it a cozy family night or invite friends to join in.

12. DIY Family Photo Shoot

Set up your phone, grab props, and take festive family photos. Matching pajamas or outdoor winter scenes make for cherished memories without the cost of a professional shoot.

13. Drive to See Christmas Lights

Explore neighborhoods with dazzling holiday displays. Many communities share maps of the most decorated houses, making it easy to plan a magical evening drive.

Free Holiday Fun Ideas14. DIY Holiday Games

Use Solo cups, string, bows, and small treats to create fun holiday games like Christmas-themed beer pong or a mini stocking stuffer scavenger hunt.

15. Paper Snowflakes

Fold and cut plain printer paper into intricate snowflakes. Hang them up for a festive touch or use them as a fun group activity during family gatherings.

16. Window Art with Paint Pens

Decorate windows and glass doors with washable paint pens. Drawing snowflakes or holiday scenes is fun for kids and easy to clean up after the holidays.

17. DIY Wrapping Paper

Customize wrapping paper by printing collages of your favorite family photos. Use plain printer paper and transform it into thoughtful, one-of-a-kind wrapping.

Make Festive Food Special18. Hot Cocoa Station

Gather hot chocolate, marshmallows, candy canes, and mugs into one spot for a dedicated cocoa station. It’s a cozy tradition your kids will adore—and it’s perfect for guests too!  I have a FREE printable for your Hot Chocolate Station it’s got cute signs, 6 recipes, 1 cookie recipe and a few other treats –  download it here. 

19. Christmas Tree Snack Boards

Arrange fruit, veggies, or snacks in the shape of a Christmas tree. Use toothpicks to attach treats to a foam tree (wrapped in plastic) for a fun, festive centerpiece.

20. Decorate Christmas Cookies

Whether you bake them from scratch or grab store-bought sugar cookies, decorating cookies with icing and sprinkles is a classic tradition that never gets old.   Snag my fave sugar cookie recipe here! 

My Amazon Store: https://urlgeni.us/amazon/Clutterbug
Podcast Channel on Youtube: @ClutterbugPod
TikTok: https://urlgeni.us/tiktok/TikTokClutterbug
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Facebook: https://urlgeni.us/facebook/Clutterbug

Stressed? Try These Easy Tips!

Do you ever feel overwhelmed and wonder how to manage stress better?

In this episode, I sit down with Dr. Aditi Nerurkar, a Harvard-trained physician and stress specialist, to uncover the truth about stress—what it is, how it affects your brain and body, and why understanding it is the key to feeling better.

Dr. Aditi explains the two types of stress we all experience, how to recognize them, and shares simple yet powerful tips to help you de-stress in your daily life. She also highlights the six essential elements of living an incredible, balanced life.

This conversation is packed with insights and practical advice that can truly transform the way you handle stress and improve your overall well-being. You won’t want to miss it!

Learn more about Dr. Aditi Nerurkar Here: https://www.draditi.com/

Order Dr. Aditi Nerurkar Book here: https://www.draditi.com/the-five-resets-book

Find Dr. Aditi Nerurkar social media:

Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/draditinerurkar/

Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/draditinerurkar/