The transition from Summer to Fall must be my favorite time of year. I love the long summer days, ending in cool summer nights. I love that the beaches are still empty while everyone works their 9-5’s; but the water is still warm enough for a dip. I love gearing up for the taste of pumpkin beer, coffee and everything associated with that wonderful gourd. Most of all, I love this wonderful opportunity for a semi-annual “Summer-Fall-Clean.”
Most of us are used to the term, “Spring Cleaning,” where you air everything out, mind, body, soul and house from the hardened days of winter. However, as a professional organizational and lifestyle consultant, I find it necessary that we do this more than once a year. The transition from Summer to Fall provides another perfect opportunity.
Fall is often associated with “Back-To-School” for kids. However, even as an adult, this is a wonderful time to update your organizational zones, office areas and overall house necessities.
Home Decor: Although marketed mostly to college students and dorms, do not underestimate the sales and general buzz around department stores for home decor. Everything from bedding, posters, frames, candles, closet organization catering to every room in the house is on sale right now. Stores are trying to make room for new inventory and most of what you see will be considered, “out of season.”
So if what you want isn’t on sale- Make An Offer! Never be afraid to make offers- yes- even in department stores! You never know where discounts are if you don’t ask! Also keep in mind that a lot of coupons don’t expire- even if they say they do! Many stores, like Bed Bath and Beyond, will still honor them. I have coupons from January 2011 that are still valid!!!
Office Areas: It’s best to just sign up for the points card: as long as there’s no credit, APR, etc. and it’s strictly a point system, associated with these (and other) stores. I have a specific email that I use when I sign up for things, (whether it’s stores or trying to win something), my very own ‘spam’ email address. This way all promotions and contact information for me operates through this account only.
That being said, Staples, Office Max, etc. will offer a LOT of online sales and promotions via email! Pair that with what’s being offered for “Back To School Days” and you are able to stock up on basics* with the most bang for your buck. *How everyone loses pens is beyond me, but we all do 🙂 Staples, tape, file folders, paperclips, post-its and sharpies are some other handy dandy organizational staples among others.
Donations: As you go through your home, apartment, office area or otherwise stocking up and storing for fall, keep an eye out for what no longer serves a purpose for you. Marking the transitional change in the seasons, maybe you have clothes that you no longer wear. Or perhaps you have extra office/school supplies that can be donated.
Consider it your own personal Fall Harvest, bounty that can be shared with others. What a great way to enter into the upcoming *holiday* season of thanks to realize how fortunate you are and give to others.
Until then, keep finding ways to “Elevate Your Everyday”
XO
*DivAmber
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