Dear Reader,
Have you noticed?
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Spring is definitely making its presence known! πΌ The daffodils are popping up, those April showers are starting early, and let's not forget the yellow dusting of pollen covering EVERYTHING. (My gray car looks like it's been spray-painted yellow overnight! π€§)
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With all these spring elements coming our way, your home's entryway is about to become ground zero for muddy shoes, drippy umbrellas, and yes - pollen-covered jackets.
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Did you know that the state of your entryway actually affects your mood every time you come home?
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It's true!
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When you walk in the door after a long workday and immediately face a jumble of shoes, backpacks, and random winter gear, your brain registers it as another task you haven't completed.
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Hello, stress!
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But when you enter a functional space that catches all that outdoor chaos before it invades your home? That signals "welcome home" to your brain instead of "here's more work."
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This week in our Winter RESET: Making Space for Spring GROWTH series, we're focusing on transforming your entryway from winter chaos to a functional spring activity center!
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Your Complete Entryway Reset Process π§Ή
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Step 1: The Clean Slate Approach (15 minutes)
Start by taking EVERYTHING out of your entryway. Yes, everything!
- Remove all shoes, coats, bags, and random items
- Wipe down all surfaces (this area collects surprising amounts of dirt)
- Vacuum or sweep thoroughly (including corners and baseboards)
Taking a "before" picture here is super motivating! You won't believe the difference when you're done.
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Step 2: Evaluate What Actually Belongs (5 minutes)
Ask these questions about each item:
- Is this needed daily or weekly during spring?
- Does this actually belong in the entryway?
- Is this serving our family right now?
Be ruthless! Winter boots can go into storage. Holiday decorations still lingering by the door? Find them a proper home!
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Step 3: Create Spring-Ready Systems (10 minutes)
Now rebuild your entryway with these spring essentials:
- A waterproof mat for rainy day puddles
- Hooks at appropriate heights for each family member
- A dedicated spot for umbrellas (a simple bucket works great!)
- A small basket for sunscreen and allergy medications
- A pollen-management station (small towel for wiping shoes/paws)
Make It Work for YOUR Family π¨βπ©βπ§βπ¦
The most beautiful entryway on Pinterest means nothing if your family won't use it!
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Some family-friendly tips:
- Label hooks and bins with names or pictures for younger kids
- Keep systems super simple - more steps means less compliance
- Place a small stool for little ones to sit while removing shoes
- Position frequently used items at eye level for the users
The 3-Minute Daily Reset That Changes Everything β±οΈ
Here's my secret weapon for maintaining your entryway: the 3-minute reset.
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Every evening, set a timer for just 3 minutes and quickly restore your entryway to its functional state:
- Return shoes to their spots
- Hang up jackets
- Empty the mail basket
- Wipe down any visible dirt or pollen
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The best part? Turn on some music and make it a family challenge! Get your whole crew involved by saying "Beat the Timer!" and have your kids (and hubby) see who can put away the most items before the 3 minutes end. π
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You'll be AMAZED at what your family can accomplish in just 180 seconds of focused effort - and how much calmer your mornings feel when you're not starting the day with yesterday's chaos!
Want to follow along with our FREE Checklist?
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πͺ Your Quick-Win Challenge: πͺ
Before our next email, I challenge you to:
- Schedule 30 minutes this week for your entryway reset
- Take a βbeforeβ picture (this is so motivating!)
- Create at least ONE new spring-ready system for your entry
- Practice the 3-minute daily reset for one week
- Share your progress! Tag @ndorganizing #MarchReset
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The transformation will amaze you - and the daily ease it creates is priceless for busy moms!
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Here's to walking through your door with a smile,
Sandy
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P.S. Spring cleaning your entryway? Don't forget to check those winter items before storing them away! This is the perfect time to note which boots leaked, which gloves lost their match, and which coats need repair or replacing before next winter. Your future self will thank you! πβοΈ
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My most popular posts
β¨ Seasonal Decluttering - Refresh your home year-round. Link ββββββhereβ
β¨ 7 Game-Changing Steps to Start Your Organized Year. Link hereβ
β¨ 5 Foundation Systems for Family Organization. Link ββββββhereββ
β¨ 30-Day Declutter Calendar. Link βhereββ
β¨ How to get Organized in just 5 minutes a day! Link βhereββ
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