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 🎙️ JJs Declutter Podcast – Episode 20
Title: Spring Cleaning Functional Zones: Entryways, Kitchens & Under Sinks
Watch on YouTube: https://youtu.be/87l27doiBnY

🧼 Episode Summary:
Ready to spring clean with purpose? In Episode 20 of the JJs Declutter Podcast, Julie and Janis guide you through a functional zone refresh that will help you transform your entryways, kitchen, and under-sink areas into organized, efficient spaces. No overwhelm—just practical, do-able steps to help you declutter, clean, and refresh for the season.

🧹 What You’ll Learn in This Episode:
✅ 00:01:18 — How to declutter and organize high-traffic entryways (front door, back door, garage entry)
✅ 00:03:13 — Step-by-step guide to refresh your kitchen pantry: toss expired items, group categories, and use clear storage
✅ 00:07:09 — How to deep clean kitchen appliances using natural solutions like lemon and vinegar
✅ 00:09:18 — Tips for decluttering cabinets and drawers, including matching lids and organizing with bins
✅ 00:11:04 — Strategies to tackle under-sink chaos and create functional storage using bins, tension rods, and vertical dividers

✨ Download the FREE Printable Checklist:
Grab your Spring Cleaning Functional Zones Checklist here: 

💬 Julie & Janis Say:
“If you haven’t used it in a year—it’s time to let it go!”
“Start small. Functional zones make a big impact!”

🔗 Links & Resources Mentioned:

• Join the ABC Declutter Community: https://www.facebook.com/groups/abcdecluttercommunity
• Follow us on Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/abcdeclutterwithjj
• Visit our website for tips & tools: https://www.abcdeclutter.com
• Listen to more episodes: https://www.TheJJsDeclutterPodcast.com

Support the show

Keep it Simple, Keep it Intentional, and - as always - Keep Decluttering!!

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Spring Cleaning – Cozy Spaces Reset

JJs Declutter Podcast 🎙️ | Hosted by Julie & Janis

🌿 Watch on YouTube: Spring Cleaning: Cozy Spaces Reset

Episode Summary

Spring is the perfect time for a Cozy Spaces Reset! In this episode, Julie and Janis guide you through three key areas to refresh your home and mind:
✔️ Flip & Freshen Your Mattress – Extend its life and improve sleep quality
✔️ Scrub Your Bathroom – Top to Bottom – Create a spa-like sanctuary
✔️ Purge the Paper Piles – Say goodbye to clutter and hello to organization

Get ready to clear out dust, declutter stress, and refresh your most-used spaces!

Timestamps & Topics

[00:00] Intro – Why a cozy reset matters
[01:20] Flip & Freshen Your Mattress – Cleaning, deodorizing & deep care tips
[7:37] Scrub Your Bathroom – A complete, step-by-step guide to a sparkling clean space
[12:44] Purging the Paper Piles – Organizing, minimizing & preventing future clutter

Key Takeaways & Pro Tips

✅ Mattress Maintenance: Rotate, vacuum, and refresh with baking soda & essential oils
✅ Deep-Clean Your Bathroom: Work top to bottom, focus on high-touch areas, and use natural cleaners
✅ Paper Clutter Fix: Implement the Keep, Shred, Recycle method and a one-touch rule
✅ Ongoing Organization: Set up a “drop zone” for mail and create a sustainable cleaning routine

Resources & Links

📌 Download the FREE Spring Cleaning Checklist
📌 Follow us for more decluttering tips:
➡️ Instagram: @abcdeclutterwithjj
➡️ Facebook Group: ABC Declutter Community
➡️ Website & Blog: www.abcdeclutter.com
➡️ Podcast Website: www.TheJJsDeclutterPodcast.com
➡️ YouTube Channel: @abcdeclutterwithjj

🎧 Subscribe & Leave a Review!
If you loved this episode, let us know by rating and reviewing the podcast! Your support helps us continue sharing tips to keep your home clutter-free and stress-free.

Support the show

Keep it Simple, Keep it Intentional, and - as always - Keep Decluttering!!

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 Episode 18: Spring Cleaning – Windows & Dusting High and Low

🎙 Hosts: Janis & Julie
📺 Watch on YouTube: https://youtu.be/-_ekVNvPdcQ

Episode Overview:

Spring is here, and that means it’s time for a deep clean! In this episode, Janis and Julie break down spring cleaning tips for tackling windows, window treatments, and dusting those high and low areas that often get overlooked. A clean and fresh home is just a few steps away!

✨ In this episode, we cover:
✔️ The best way to clean windows inside and out (without streaks!) (00:02:15)
✔️ How to freshen up curtains, blinds, and window treatments (00:05:30)
✔️ Dusting high areas: ceiling fans, vents, and light fixtures (00:09:45)
✔️ Tackling baseboards, door frames, and under furniture (00:14:10)
✔️ Pro tips to make cleaning quicker, easier, and more effective

Why You’ll Love This Episode:

✅ Easy-to-follow step-by-step cleaning guide
✅ Pro tips to save time and effort
✅ Simple solutions using natural and DIY cleaners
✅ Encouragement to start small and make progress

Resources & Links:

📌 Get Your Free Spring Cleaning Checklist – Visit our website
📌 Join Our Decluttering Community! – Facebook Group
📌 Follow Us on Instagram – @abcdeclutterwithjj
📌 Listen to More Episodes – The JJs Declutter Podcast

Share the Love!

💬 Love this episode? Leave a review! Your support helps us bring you more tips and motivation to keep your home clutter-free and organized.

Support the show

Keep it Simple, Keep it Intentional, and - as always - Keep Decluttering!!

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 Episode 17: Magazine Moments Judgy Pants—Reviewing 19 All-Natural Spring Cleaning Tricks for the Kitchen

🎧 Listen now: Watch on YouTube

Spring is here, and it’s time to freshen up your kitchen the natural way! In this episode of The JJs Declutter Podcast, Janis and Julie put on their Judgy Pants to review an article from Food52 about 19 all-natural spring cleaning tricks for the kitchen. 

Some of these tips are game-changers—others? Well… let’s just say they left us scratching our heads.

What You’ll Learn in This Episode:

✅ The surprising cleaning power of vodka (hint: it’s not just for cocktails 🍸)
✅ Why mineral oil might be your new go-to for shiny stainless steel ✨
✅ Classic cleaning staples like white vinegar, baking soda, and salt—do they really work?
✅ A debate over Goo Gone and whether it truly belongs on a “natural” cleaning list 🤔
✅ The unexpected use of ketchup (yes, ketchup!) for cleaning cookware 🍅
✅ Our personal takes on which of these tricks are worth trying—and which ones we’re calling out as questionable!

Resources Mentioned:

📝 Original Article: Food52 – 19 All-Natural Spring Cleaning Tricks for the Kitchen

Join the Decluttering Fun!

🌟 Subscribe to our YouTube Channel: ABC Declutter with JJ
🌟 Follow us on Instagram: @abcdeclutterwithjj
🌟 Join our Facebook Community: ABC Declutter Community
🌟 Check out our website: ABCDeclutter.com
🌟 Listen to past episodes: The JJs Declutter Podcast

👉 Don’t forget to leave us a review! It helps others find the show and keeps us motivated to bring you more decluttering and cleaning wisdom.

 #SpringCleaningHacks #EcoFriendlyCleaning #NaturalCleaningTips #GreenCleaning #ToxinFreeLiving #DIYCleaning #HomeOrganization #KitchenCleaning  #VinegarForCleaning #BakingSodaHacks #CleanWithVodka #StainlessSteelCleaning #GooGone #KetchupCleaningHack #MineralOil #AllNaturalCleaning #CleaningMotivation #DeclutteringJourney #ClutterFreeLiving #HomeHacks #CleaningTips #OrganizedHome #JudgyPantsReviews #ReviewingCleaningHacks #TheJJsDeclutterPodcast #PodcastEpisode #DeclutteringPodcast #CleaningPodcast #SpringCleaning #NaturalCleaning #DeclutterYourHome #MinimalistLiving 

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Keep it Simple, Keep it Intentional, and - as always - Keep Decluttering!!

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Spring is here, which means it’s time to swap out heavy winter clothes and bring in the light, breezy outfits! But how do you tackle a seasonal swap without stress or clutter? 

In this episode, Janis and Julie share a step-by-step system to help you declutter, organize, and store your wardrobe with ease.

By the end of this episode, you’ll learn:
✅ How to prep for a seasonal clothing swap
✅ How to declutter winter clothes before packing them away
✅ Smart storage solutions (and common mistakes to avoid!)
✅ How to organize your spring wardrobe
✅ Small space storage hacks & capsule wardrobe tips

Grab a cup of coffee (or start sorting your closet!) and let’s declutter together—one season at a time.

Timestamps & Key Takeaways

🔹 [00:00] Welcome & Introduction
Janis & Julie kick off by sharing why seasonal swaps often feel overwhelming—and how to simplify the process.

🔹 [01:14] Step 1: Prepping for a Seasonal Swap
Set aside an hour and gather your supplies: storage bins, vacuum-seal bags, labels, donation boxes.
Pro Tip: Keep a trash can (for pocket junk) and a laundry basket for items that need washing.

🔹 [02:54] Step 2: Quick Decluttering Before Packing
Ask:
✔ Did I wear this last winter?
✔ Is it damaged, outdated, or uncomfortable?
✔ Does it reflect my current style?
Struggling to decide? Try the “Maybe Box Trick”—store unsure items for 6 months and revisit them later.

🔹 [04:17] Step 3: Storing Winter Clothes the Right Way
Everything should be clean—body oils attract pests!
✔ Coats & sweaters → fabric bags or bins
✔ Delicates → cotton bags + cedar blocks
✔ Boots → stuff with paper or pool noodles
❌ Avoid cardboard boxes, plastic bags, and hanging heavy knits.

🔹 [07:06] Step 4: Organizing Your Spring Wardrobe
Refresh your closet—wipe shelves, vacuum, and swap bins.
Sort by:
✔ Type (tops, pants, dresses)
✔ Occasion (casual, work, dressy)
✔ Frequency (keep favorites in reach)
Mini Try-On: If it doesn’t fit, flatter, or feel good—let it go!

🔹 [08:37] Step 5: Storage Strategies for Small Spaces
Use under-bed bins, hanging organizers, and multi-use furniture.
Luggage works great for off-season items!
Prefer simplicity? Try a Capsule Wardrobe—fewer mix-and-match pieces.

🔹 [11:16] Listener Q&A: Small Closet Solutions
Q: “What if I don’t have much storage space?”
A: Use vacuum-seal bags for bulky items, and vertical storage (stackable bins, shelves, rolling racks).

🔹 [12:17] Pro Tip: Leave Notes for Future You
Track what you wore most and what you missed—so you can plan smarter for next season or shop end-of-season sales.

🔹 [13:06] Wrap-Up & Final Thoughts
Ready to tackle your seasonal clothing swap without stress? You’ve got this!
📌 Join our Facebook community: ABC Declutter with JJ
📌 Follow us on Instagram: @abcdeclutterwithjj
📌 More tips at www.abcdeclutter.com
📌 Watch this episode on YouTube: Spring Seasonal Clothing Swap & Storage

👉 Love this episode? Subscribe, leave a review, and share it with a friend.

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Keep it Simple, Keep it Intentional, and - as always - Keep Decluttering!!

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Episode 15: Decluttering Digital Spaces – Simplify Your Digital Life

📱💻 Feeling overwhelmed by digital clutter? In this episode of JJs Declutter Podcast, we’re tackling the chaos in your digital world! From overloaded inboxes to cluttered desktops and endless notifications, we’ll guide you through simple steps to reclaim your digital space.

🎙️ What You’ll Learn in This Episode:
⏳ [00:00] Introduction – Why digital clutter is just as overwhelming as physical clutter.
⏳ [02:00] What is Digital Clutter? – Understanding how digital clutter impacts your productivity and focus.
⏳ [03:00] Decluttering Files & Folders – Steps to organize your desktop, downloads, and documents.
⏳ [05:00] Tackling Email Overload – Inbox decluttering strategies, from unsubscribing to creating filters.
⏳ [07:00] Organizing Photos & Videos – How to remove duplicates, create albums, and manage storage.
⏳ [09:00] Managing Apps & Notifications – Clearing out unused apps and reducing distractions.
⏳ [11:00] Digital Security & Maintenance – Updating passwords, enabling two-factor authentication, and protecting your data.
⏳ [13:00] Creating a Digital Decluttering Habit – Small daily and weekly routines to keep digital clutter under control.

✨ Why It Matters:
Just like physical clutter, digital clutter can create stress, reduce efficiency, and make it harder to find what you need. A tidy digital space leads to better focus, productivity, and peace of mind.

🔗 Links & Resources:
📌 Join our Decluttering Community
📌 Follow us on Instagram
📌 Watch more decluttering tips on YouTube
📌 Visit our website for more tips

🎧 Listen & Subscribe:
Never miss an episode! Subscribe on Apple Podcasts, Spotify, or your favorite podcast app.

👉 Challenge for You: Pick one area of your digital life to declutter this week. Whether it’s your inbox, desktop, or phone apps, start small and build momentum!

Support the show

Keep it Simple, Keep it Intentional, and - as always - Keep Decluttering!!

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Welcome back to The JJs Declutter Podcast! 

Today, Janis and Julie are diving into one of the most common (and overwhelming) clutter zones—your closet. If your wardrobe feels chaotic, your drawers are overflowing, or choosing an outfit feels stressful, this episode is your game-changer.

You’ll learn step-by-step strategies to declutter your clothes with ease, plus smart tips for donating, selling, or recycling what no longer serves you. It’s time to build a wardrobe that works for your lifestyle—calm, functional, and filled with clothes you love.

✨ What You’ll Learn in This Episode:

✔️ The emotional side of decluttering clothes—how to let go of guilt and sentiment
 ✔️ The 4-Pile Method for efficient wardrobe sorting (05:22)
✔️ Key questions to ask when deciding what stays
✔️ Where and how to donate, sell, or recycle clothing (07:01)
✔️ How to build a wardrobe you love with intentional habits
✔️ Simple strategies to maintain a clutter-free closet (12:28)

👚 Declutter Your Clothes with the 4-Pile Method (05:22)

1️⃣ Keep – What you love, wear often, and feel great in
2️⃣ Donate/Sell – Still in good shape, but no longer your style or fit
3️⃣ Recycle – Worn out, damaged, or unsalvageable items
4️⃣ Seasonal/Maybe – Items to revisit later before making a final decision

Ask yourself:

• Do I love this?
• Do I wear it regularly?
• Does it fit me well right now?
• Would I buy this again at full price?

👉 If you hesitate or have to justify it—it’s time to LET IT GO.

♻️ Where to Take Your Decluttered Clothes (07:01)

👗 Donate – Local shelters, thrift shops, or community drives
💰 Sell – Try Poshmark, eBay, consignment shops, or Facebook Marketplace
♻️ Recycle – Textile bins or store programs (H&M, Levi’s, Patagonia, etc.)

👖 How to Maintain a Clutter-Free Closet (12:28)

✅ Follow a "one-in, two-out" rule
✅ Do seasonal closet edits (every 3–6 months)
✅ Store off-season clothes separately
✅ Shop with intention—buy what fits your body, life, and style

💬 Resources & Community

👉 Join our Facebook Group: ABC Declutter Community
📸 Follow us on Instagram: @abcdeclutterwithjj
🌐 Visit our website for more tips & tools: www.abcdeclutter.com

🎧 Listen now and take the first step toward a simplified, intentional wardrobe.

Support the show

Keep it Simple, Keep it Intentional, and - as always - Keep Decluttering!!

Send us Fan Mail

The JJs Declutter Podcast Episode 12 – Magazine Moments: Judgy Pants

Episode Description:
Join hosts Julie Weisgerber and Janis Kosmala on a fun-filled, insightful journey into the world of home organization in this episode of The JJs Declutter Podcast! In “Magazine Moments: Judgy Pants,” the duo shares two unconventional decluttering hacks that challenge the status quo and spark laughter along the way. Whether you live in a spacious home or a cozy apartment, these creative tips—from the popular Library Cart Method to a quirky Balloon Dusting Hack—will inspire you to rethink how you tackle clutter.

What You’ll Learn:

Library Cart Method: Organizing with Wheels

●        Inspired by Apartment Therapy’s organizing challenge (Feb 3, 2025), this method suggests using a rolling cart to consolidate items before putting them away.

●        Discover why this approach might work well in larger homes—and why a simple basket can sometimes be the better option for smaller spaces.

●        Pros, cons, and real-life insights from Julie and Janis’s honest conversation about creating a "junk drawer on wheels."

Flat Surface Scramble: A Smarter Decluttering Trick

●        A quick decluttering tactic for those with limited space: set a timer, grab a basket, and clear flat surfaces room by room to keep your home organized.

●        How this method avoids clutter hotspots and keeps your space tidy without adding more furniture.

Balloon Dusting Hack: Does It Really Work?

●        Borrowed from House Outlook’s viral dusting trick (Sept 16, 2024), this offbeat method shows how a simple balloon can help lift dust from tricky surfaces, from keyboards to baseboards.

●        Apartment Therapy also tested it, but does it really work? Julie and Janis put it to the test—with hilarious results!

●        Perfect for a family activity or party game that turns cleaning into a playful challenge.

Timestamps:

⏱ 00:00 – Welcome & Introduction to Magazine Moments: Judgy Pants
⏱ 00:00:43 – The Library Cart Method: Pros, Cons, and Practical Alternatives
⏱ 00:04:53 – Flat Surface Scramble: A Basket Approach for Small Spaces
⏱ 00:08:35 – The Balloon Dusting Hack: How to Use a Balloon for Cleaning
⏱ 00:15:00 – Wrap-Up & Final Thoughts: Keep It Simple, Keep It Decluttered!

Why You Should Listen:

If you’re passionate about decluttering, home organization, and discovering creative cleaning hacks, this episode is for you! Julie and Janis break down trends from Apartment Therapy and House Outlook with wit and practicality, providing actionable tips that will help you maintain a clutter-free space while having a good laugh.

📌 Links & Resources

📺 Watch the Full Episode: YouTube Video
📌 Read More About These Hacks:

●        🏠 Library Cart Organizing Method: Apartment Therapy

●        🎈 Balloon Dusting Hack: House Outlook | Apartment Therapy

🎙 Subscribe: Don’t miss future episo

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Keep it Simple, Keep it Intentional, and - as always - Keep Decluttering!!

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Episode Summary
Decluttering can sometimes feel like a bomb went off in your home, but that messy middle stage—what we call the “Messessary Middle”—is actually proof of progress!

In this episode, Janis and Julie break down why this phase is essential and how to move through it without feeling overwhelmed.
You’ll learn practical strategies for managing the chaos, staying on track, and avoiding rebound clutter so your space stays organized long-term.

Key Takeaways & Timestamps
⏳ [00:00:50] What is the “Messessary Middle”?
The unavoidable messy phase of decluttering
Why it’s a sign of progress, not failure
⏳ [00:01:22] The Three Phases of Decluttering
Planning – Setting up your goals & gathering supplies
Messessary Middle – Sorting through items, making decisions
Completion – Restoring order & enjoying your clutter-free space
⏳ [00:03:45] The Rolling Sort Method
Avoid feeling overwhelmed by tackling small sections at a time
How to declutter in short bursts while maintaining progress
⏳ [00:05:16] The KEEP or LETS GO Method
Keep (stays in the area)
LE (Lives Elsewhere – needs to be relocated)
Trash (discard immediately)
Sentimental (store for later review)
GO (donate, sell, return)
⏳ [00:07:24] How to Prevent Re-Cluttering
Store like-with-like and use labeled containers
Periodically revisit decluttered spaces to ensure they stay organized
⏳ [00:10:06] Using Reminders for Items You’re Not Ready to Let Go
Set a deadline (e.g., 60 days) to reassess sentimental or uncertain items
Use a calendar reminder to revisit decisions later

Resources & Links
🌟 Join Our Facebook Community: https://www.facebook.com/groups/abcdecluttercommunity
📸 Follow on Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/abcdeclutterwithjj
🌎 Website & Blog: https://www.abcdeclutter.com
🎙️ More Podcast Episodes: https://www.TheJJsDeclutterPodcast.com
📺 Subscribe on YouTube: https://youtube.com/@abcdeclutterwithjj?si=1xnbt-YE1i7z60JR

Call to Action (aka Homework)
👉 Decluttering Challenge: Pick one small space today—a drawer, a shelf, or a pile of papers—and start sorting. Remember, the mess is temporary!
💬 Comment below with your biggest decluttering struggle, and let’s tackle it together!
🔔 Subscribe for More Decluttering Tips and turn on notifications so you never miss an episode.

Support the show

Keep it Simple, Keep it Intentional, and - as always - Keep Decluttering!!

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 Transform Your Spring Cleaning with the Fastpitch Game!

In this episode of the JJs Declutter Podcast, we dive into our innovative Fastpitch Game—a rapid-fire method designed to help you declutter fast and efficiently during spring cleaning.

Whether you're a decluttering beginner, someone with ADHD who benefits from focused, quick bursts, or just looking for simple, actionable tips to organize your home, this episode is packed with motivational insights and practical steps.

🔗 Watch Now: Fastpitch Game & Spring Cleaning

What You'll Learn:
[00:00:06] Introduction & Overview:
Discover how the Fastpitch Decluttering Game can revolutionize your spring cleaning by turning clutter clearing into a fun, game-like challenge.
[00:00:42] Why Fastpitch Works for Everyone:
Learn why this rapid-decision method is perfect for decluttering beginners, individuals with ADHD, and anyone looking to bypass decision fatigue.
[00:01:04] The Fastpitch Method Explained:
Understand how to use a 1-minute timer to make fast, 2–3 second decisions on each item—transforming your approach to speed decluttering.
[00:04:07] The Four Key Categories:
Master the simple sorting system:
Safe: Keep items you love
Out: Store items elsewhere
Pitch: Toss out unwanted items
Out of the Park: Donate items in good condition
[00:05:07] Real-Life Spring Cleaning Scenarios:
See how to apply Fastpitch to everyday spaces like your living room and closet for immediate, noticeable progress.
[00:06:34] Customizing Your Approach:
Get tips on adjusting the timer (90 seconds or 2 minutes) if needed, ensuring the method works for your unique pace and physical needs.
[00:07:28] Overcoming Emotional Attachments:
Learn strategies to shift your mindset—from feeling like you're losing cherished items to gaining space and freedom.
[00:08:40] Pro Tips for Maximizing Results:
Discover extra tips like setting clear goals, playing energizing music, and inviting a friend to make your spring cleaning even more effective.
[00:10:04] Listener Q&A & Success Stories:
Hear answers to common questions about handling sentimental items and learn how others have transformed their spaces using the Fastpitch method.
[00:11:07] Inspiration & Final Motivation:
Get inspired by success stories and a final call-to-action to check out the Speed Decluttering book and join our upcoming workshop for even more decluttering hacks.

📺 Subscribe on YouTube:  https://www.youtube.com/@abcdeclutterwithjj

🌟 Join Our Decluttering Community: Facebook Group  https://www.facebook.com/groups/abcdecluttercommunity

📸 Follow Us on Instagram:
 https://www.instagram.com/abcdeclutterwithjj

🖥️ Website: https://www.abcDEclutter.com

🎙  Listen to More Episodes:  Podcast website: https://www.TheJJsDeclutterPodcast.com

📬 Email: [email protected]


💡 Action Step:
Set a timer for 1 minute, pick a small area in your home, and try the Fastpitch Game during your next spring cleaning session. Turn your decluttering into a fun, fast-paced game and reclaim your space with speed decluttering!
If you enjoyed this episode, be sure to subscribe, leave a review, and share your spring cleaning success stories using hashtags like #FastpitchGame, #SpringCleaning, and #DeclutterFast. Happy decluttering!

Support the show

Keep it Simple, Keep it Intentional, and - as always - Keep Decluttering!!