Category Archives: Decorating

AARP Says 30 Days to declutter… My Kitchen Strongly Disagrees

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The Kitchen Declutter project begins. Doesn't look too bad if you don't open the cabinet doors

Making Peace With a Slow Declutter

I knew I’d never complete the AARP decluttering challenge in the 30 days they promised. So far, the only room that moved at their suggested pace was the bathroom. The kitchen? That beast took me two full weeks. It’s technically “finished” now only because I’m assigning the cupboards that open into the dining room to the dining room. They really belong to the kitchen, but at this point I’ll take any help I can get.

The Cookbook Situation (Yes, It’s a Situation)

I’ve sold a few things on Facebook Marketplace and listed all my old cookbooks there as well. Right now, they’re just piled up waiting for a buyer. I have this funny quirk: I cannot throw out books. I may end up giving these cookbooks away, but tossing them in the trash? Absolutely not. It would feel like throwing out my own child.

The Hall Closet/Pantry: My Biggest Victory So Far

The biggest project so far was the hall closet/pantry. I’ve reorganized it as much as I can for now. I’m still debating a few items, so I’m letting things settle to see if the current setup works for me. I bought new canisters for flour, sugar, and other staples so I can actually see what I have — no more half‑open bags lurking in the shadows. These should keep everything fresher, too.

Remember what that closet looked like when I started? Look at it now. I’m genuinely proud.

Before. Is it a closet or a pantry. I don’t think it knows

After- A pantry reorganized and cleaned out

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

Banner and Balboa’s “Help”

Banner and Balboa gave the newly organized pantry — which has always been off‑limits — their full approval. Of course, that may be because they managed to sneak in and “help” while the door was open. They’ve both protested now that the door is closed again. I’ll admit I’m not as worried if they manage to get in these days, since I no longer have nails and tools scattered all over the floor.

The Spice Cabinet: A Whole Other Adventure

The other big project wasn’t the mugs so much as the spices. Whew. What a mess. I did some serious purging because most of the one‑offs were expired anyway — things I bought for one recipe and never made again. Here’s the before and after of the spices. Much better.

Before, A crowded and confused spice cabinet. A bit disorganized but functional

 

 

After. Still full but all organized by spice and type

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

Next Up: The Bedroom and Closets

The next part of the decluttering project heads to the bedroom, closets, and personal spaces. My bedroom is a mixed bag. I’ve already cleaned out one nightstand, but I have a huge cabinet that holds my winter coats and photography paraphernalia. One closet is pretty organized but full — it holds all my luggage, and it gets pulled out often because the HVAC unit is in the back and needs yearly service.

The second closet is… a nightmare. I’ve had good intentions, but I always get overwhelmed. I’m not sure how far I’ll get. I can feel my momentum and enthusiasm slowly dying, but I can say this: a start has been made. If I can maintain what I’ve already done, I can always pick the project back up.

But I say this firmly: No, AARP. This is not a 30‑day project unless you’re doing a superficial clean‑out.

And Now… The Grand Finale

Press onward, intrepid declutterer — the closet awaits, and it isn’t going to clean itself.
Behold… the beast I’m tackling next.

 

 

 

Declutter Adventure: Week 3

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The Start of the Kitchen declutter adventure

Falling Behind the AARP Timetable (And That’s Okay)

Well… I’m not keeping up with AARP’s decluttering timetable. The kitchen turned out to be a much bigger challenge than I expected. You’d think a tiny kitchen would be easy, but I forgot one crucial detail: the hall closet, which has slowly evolved into my pantry over the years.

And then there are the cabinets added during the 2014 kitchen refresh — the ones under the counter between the kitchen and dining room. I needed storage space desperately back then, and boy, did I fill it.

The Hall Pantry: A Time Capsule from 2006

I started with the hall pantry/closet. What a mess. I pulled out things that have been sitting untouched since I moved in back in 2006. Some of it went straight onto Facebook Marketplace. If it doesn’t sell, it’s getting tossed. No guilt, no hesitation.

I didn’t think to take a “before” picture of that frightening closet, but here’s what it looked like after my first 30 minutes. It’s still pretty bad, but progress is progress. I’m determined to get that space cleaned out if nothing else. Honestly, I may need two weeks for this part alone.

The Mug Situation (A Partial Victory)

The mug collection is trimmed down… a little. There are still more mugs than any single person needs, but I just couldn’t part with all of them. Still, they’re better organized, and that counts.

New Organizers Incoming

Speaking of organization, I ordered some new organizers from Amazon — including a fresh set of canisters for flour, sugar, etc. They should arrive by Monday. Once those are in place, I think I’ll finally feel like I’m making progress.

A Little Cooking Validation from Quora

In the middle of all this decluttering, I had a fun moment of validation. Someone on Quora asked how to keep chicken breasts tender, and the top answer was exactly what I’ve been saying for years on my blog:

Use a cast‑iron pan.

It’s always nice when the universe confirms you’re on the right track. And yes — my cast‑iron pans have a permanent home in the kitchen. They’re not going anywhere.

A Condo Meeting Twist: Yard Sale Opportunity

We had a condo meeting Wednesday night. They’re planning a “Community Day” to socialize and meet neighbors. I asked if we could add a yard sale to the event — and they loved the idea. So now it’s a combined Community Day + Yard Sale.

Maybe I can unload some of my clutter there too.

The Long Game: Maintaining Momentum

If I can maintain the areas I’ve decluttered over the next year, I think I can do a spring clean each year and slowly weed out the unnecessary items. I can’t even imagine tackling the storage unit with its boxes of ornaments and photo props. Just thinking about it gives me nightmares. But I’ll get there eventually.

At least you can see my countertops now. Next post, I’ll share the finished kitchen pics.

Banner and Balboa’s Review

Banner and Balboa love the empty spaces. They think I’ve created new real estate just for them.

The Kitchen Declutter Adventure , Week 2

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Excellent progress on the bathroom. It truly took just 30 minutes a day — even with Banner and Balboa “helping.” All that’s left is to sweep out the bottom of the vanity and I can call Week 1 wrapped.

 

 

  • The Vanity Corner

Week 2: Kitchen & Pantry — The Real Test Begins

My decluttering adventure continues.

As you may recall, AARP claims you can declutter your entire home in 30 days. I’m testing that theory, one week at a time. Week 1 went surprisingly well — and yes, it really did take less than 30 minutes a day. It helped that I redecorated the bathroom a couple of years ago, so I wasn’t dealing with 20 years of fossilized lotions. Plus, I had Banner’s “help” with the medicine cabinet and Balboa’s supervision from the over‑the‑toilet storage shelves.

Somewhere in the middle of all this, my browser crashed. Not the computer — just the browser — but it slowed me down enough that I ended up “decluttering” my hard drive instead of my home. That saga deserves its own post.

But onward. Week 2 is Kitchen and Pantry, and the rules remain the same: no more than 30 minutes a day.

My tiny kitchen where culinary magic happens

My tiny kitchen where culinary magic happens

AARP suggests tackling the junk drawer on a weekday and getting rid of duplicates. Cabinets are also weekday tasks, except for the “big ones.” In my tiny kitchen, I’m not entirely sure what qualifies as a big cabinet, but the bottom line is clear: declutter them all.

Not a junk drawer, mostly confused

This is where things get emotional.

The mugs.

The Mug Cabinet

I have souvenir mugs from trips, funny mugs, mugs with pictures, mugs that remind me of people, places, and moments. One of the tasks this week is to thin those out and make room on the shelf. The rule is simple: if you don’t use it, out it goes. The rule is also cruel.

At least I can say one cabinet is already in good shape. The under‑sink cabinet is practically a showpiece at this point — I’ve been cleaning it out for the past year. Can I count that as “one down”? I’m counting it.

Pots, pans and baking essentials, all necessary for my culinary adventures

Pots, pans and baking essentials

Of course, Banner and Balboa will be deeply involved in this week’s work. They love the under‑sink cabinet. They’ve both figured out how to open the door even though it’s on a spring. I always know when they’re in there because I hear the rhythmic thud… thud… thud of the door swinging shut behind them.

The spice cabinet

So here we go. The clock is ticking, the mugs are trembling, and Week 2 begins. Can we get the kitchen back to it’s former glory? Let’s find out.

Counter Clutter

 

March Comes In Like a Lion… Or Maybe Just a Squirrel

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gray squirrel

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Checking the Weather the New England Way

There’s an old saying that “March comes in like a lion and goes out like a lamb.”
Here in Massachusetts, that lion has a flair for the dramatic. Some years it roars in with a blizzard, other years it tiptoes in like it’s afraid to wake the neighbors. And sometimes it just shrugs and gives us mud.

So this morning, before I did anything else, I performed the official New England March 1st ritual:
I looked out the window to see what kind of mood March was in.
(Cold, Light rain and snow. Yuk)

Meanwhile, at the Deck Slider…

While I was assessing the weather, Banner and Balboa were conducting their own March 1st investigation. Both were crouched at the deck slider, tails whipping like furry windshield wipers. Outside, the squirrels were running back and forth, pausing just long enough to give the boys a look that clearly said:

“Ha ha, you can’t get me.”

Banner took this as a personal insult. Balboa, ever the dramatic one, flattened himself into full panther mode. The squirrels, of course, remained unimpressed.

If March did come in like a lion today, the squirrels didn’t get the memo.

A Little Spring Inside the House

No matter what’s happening outside — roaring lion, sleepy lamb, or taunting squirrel — March always feels like a turning point. The light lingers a little longer each afternoon, and I start craving small changes that make home feel fresher.

One of my favorite early‑spring rituals is swapping out my heavy winter curtains for something lighter. Even if the weather is still acting up, it makes the whole room feel like it’s leaning toward spring.

This year I’ve been eyeing the Joydeco curtains — soft, modern, and perfect for letting in that slowly returning daylight.
Explore  Curtains here

Lion, Lamb, or Something in Between

Whether March arrived roaring, purring, or just sending squirrels to mock my cats, I’m welcoming it with a warm mug, a hopeful heart, and a few small changes around the house.

Here’s to brighter days ahead — and to Banner and Balboa keeping the squirrel population on high alert.

 

A Simple, Stylish Bedroom Makeover

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Fresh Ideas for a Modern, Cozy Retreat

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A bedroom makeover doesn’t have to mean knocking down walls or buying all new furniture. Sometimes the most transformative changes come from simple updates—fresh bedding, a new rug, better lighting, or a thoughtful rearrangement of what you already own. Whether you’re craving a minimalist cocoon, a modern sanctuary, or something with a little mid‑century flair, you can refresh your space step by step and still make it feel uniquely yours.

Below are some inspiring ideas—plus easy upgrades like quality linens from Promeed—to help you create a bedroom that feels calm, stylish, and deeply personal.

Start with the Basics: Build a Foundation for Better Sleep

Before diving into décor, set the stage for comfort.

✔ Invest in a quality mattress and linens

A supportive mattress and breathable bedding are the heart of a restful bedroom. Soft, durable sheets and a comforter that suits your sleep style make a world of difference. Neutral tones—ivory, mocha, gray, soft beige—create a timeless backdrop that works with any décor. We recommend checking out Promeed for linens and accessories

✔ Layer your lighting

Modern bedrooms rely on lighting that works in layers:

  • A main overhead fixture
  • Bedside lamps or sconces
  • Optional accent lighting like string lights or a soft-glow nightlight

This creates ambiance and makes the room feel warm and intentional.

✔ Choose soothing colors

Whether you love crisp whites, earthy browns, or soft coastal hues, pick colors that help you unwind. Modern design leans toward clean lines and calming palettes.

Modern Bedroom Inspiration: Clean, Calm, and Personal

Today’s  bedrooms are all about simplicity, comfort, and thoughtful details. Here are a few design directions inspired by House Beautiful:

Go for a Headboard + Nightstand Combo

A statement headboard instantly elevates the room. Some designs even include built‑in nightstands for a sleek, custom look. Pair this with soft neutral bedding and warm lighting for a balanced, modern feel.

Keep It Neutral and Natural

Mocha walls, gold-toned linens, and a jute rug create a cozy, autumnal cocoon. Natural textures—linen, jute, cotton, wood—add warmth without clutter.

Make It Minimalist

A minimalist bedroom doesn’t mean empty—it means intentional.
Try:

  • A simple gallery wall
  • A built‑in shelf above the bed
  • Hooks for robes or accessories
  • A sculptural pendant light

These small touches keep the room serene but interesting.

Textiles & Decor: The Easiest Way to Refresh Your Space

Textiles are the quickest, most affordable way to transform a bedroom. Consider:

Bedding

Upgrade with quality linens, decorative pillows, and throws in layered textures.
Bedding and Linens

Rugs

A soft area rug or runner adds warmth, color, and grounding. Accessorize with a throw banket. Find more ideas at Joydeco

 

Curtains

Fresh curtains can soften the room, control light, and instantly modernize the space. Check out Joydeco for quality curtain and shade ideas

Plants

Real or faux greenery brings life and freshness to the room.

Lighting

Swap outdated fixtures for sconces, pendants, or soft accent lighting.

Nightstand Styling

A tray, a book stack, and one or two personal objects make the space feel curated, not cluttered.

Furniture & Layout: Small Changes, Big Impact

Floating Nightstand

You don’t need new furniture to make the room feel new.

Rearrange the layout

Sometimes simply moving the bed or shifting a dresser opens up the room.

Add a statement headboard

Upholstered, wood, rattan—choose something that reflects your style.

Improve storage

Floating nightstands, storage ottomans, or under‑bed bins help keep clutter at bay.

DIY upgrades

New knobs on a dresser, a fresh coat of paint, or repurposing an old piece can make a big difference.

Finishing Touches: Make It Yours

These small steps pull everything together:

  • Make the bed daily—instantly tidier and more inviting
  • Add personal touches—secondhand finds, DIY art, or sentimental objects
  • Use scent—lavender, eucalyptus, or your favorite calming fragrance
  • Keep surfaces simple—a few meaningful items go further than a dozen small ones

Ready to Refresh Your Bedroom?

A modern bedroom doesn’t have to be complicated. With thoughtful updates—especially new bedding and linens from Promeed and fresh curtains from Joydeco you can create a space that feels serene, stylish, and unmistakably you. Whether you’re going minimalist, natural, or mid‑century inspired, these ideas help you build a bedroom that supports rest, comfort, and your personal design story.