Ask me Anything: Finally ready to talk about this

[@TheMinimalMom]

Thank you so much for watching! I’d love to help you declutter your house in the new year! Take Your House Back (Just $94): urlgeni.us/TYHB Have a great weekend! - Dawn ❤

[@MyFocusVaries]

Dawn, I get migraines, and sourdough (and some other fermented foods) are a trigger for me. It could be the sourdough vs the gluten that's the issue for Tom.

[@SnowySpiritRuby]

Don't know about anyone else, but I'm decluttering this month. The thrift stores near where I live don't take some of the things that I get rid of, so those come with me when I drive to my parents' house for Christmas each year (and go back with my parents in their car if they drive out to visit me during the year). And every time I visit them, I go through more stuff in my old room.

[@Chrissyhappy]

Had a massive issue with photos 😮🤦🏼‍♀️. My daughter who’s in her twenties now, has special needs. So I took so many photos when she was born in case I lost her. And every year after! Had them all in albums. Very neat but over 8000 in albums! So I sat, for a whole day. Whittled them down to about 2500 photos. It was the hardest thing disposing of the photos I was letting go. I made four little albums for my daughter to have herself because she loves to look at them and was wrecking mine😂. Some of the spare photos I put in a basket and we still look at them, but ultimately I got rid of about 4000 photos. They were duplicates and not great quality. For about three days I felt really bad. Then it lifted. Now I absolutely love what I have. They’re in one small cupboard. We look at them all the time. They’re all lovely photos. It’s worth it, but it’s hard. Good luck to everyone on their declutter journey.❤

[@megangilchrist315]

I am in the same position with my Son!! I took SO many photos and videos in case I lost him :’( I look back and see a bunch of duplicates and blurry pics, I’m not ready yet to declutter them from my Google pics, it was just such an emotional time (He is almost 4 now and thriving despite his disabilities! No longer knocking on deaths door! Praise God!)

[@ixi9]

Hey Dawn! Since this video got so personal, I also feel like sharing... :) I've been watching you for atleast 3 years now. I am a 30-year-old woman from Estonia, no kids (2 cats) and not married to my partner. So I can't relate 100% on all the mom life stuff and also I am not Christian by any means (fun fact: Estonia is one of the most atheist countries in the world), if I had to tick a box then maybe spiritual-ish :) But despite not having a super similar background, I just simply love your personality and all your videos. You are so so wholesome and obviously just want to help people and make the world a better place! I really appreciate all your caring, calming, encouraging vibes😇🥰

[@rover790]

Well said. Thank you for saying what many of us think and can't put into words as well as you have. Xx

[@E.Cerulean]

Ohh! I am muslim and there is an Estinion influencer who converted to Islam, her name is Eslima on instagram I believe. I need to look up estonian food, it must be wonderful, and also learn about the culture.

[@ericboyer6464]

😢😢😢 eternity is so real. Jesus, only Jesus 💙

[@E.Cerulean]

my comment has been deleted, bc I said I am muslim and I know an estonian revert ?? Ok interesting

[@nthebeavec]

My home is not a storage unit it for other people!!! I have to remind myself that it’s not my job to find the perfect new home/owner for each item I declutter! I can’t hold onto things for someone to pick something up that they said they wanted a week ago! The stress of my home being cluttered far outweighs the guilt of donating something that was a gift, the gift giving was the experience, not the keeping and storage of the gift itself!! We have to let go of the responsibility we let things put on us!!

[@KarenScroggins]

Dawn, my heart goes out to you. Please give yourself a heaping measure of grace and mercy about foster care. It is NOT easy. Our family had a very difficult experience with a foster child that made me realize that I did not have the "bandwidth" to manage this. It was negatively impacting our family in ways that I had not imagined it would. Until someone has experienced it, they just don't understand how difficult it can be. There is no shame in saying this is not something I am able to do. Find someone or a place that you can help support who is taking care of foster children. Taking them into your own home is not for everyone; you are not alone in this discovery.

[@mikametcalf3783]

Love this advice. I wanted to foster and adopt. My husband wasn't up for it. His family struggled adopting his sister. He loves her, but it was a long hard road, and he was honest about not feeling equipped to do that. Pandemic happened, life changed. Maybe in future, but for now it's off the table. I'm not going to put a wedge in our marriage, and if he's not fully on board, it's not the right thing right now. But I still share info about foster care with others who show interest, I try to donate clothes, backpacks, necessities to places that help foster kids and families. There's always Big Brothers Big Sisters, respite care, or volunteering in some way, like becoming a CASA advocate.

[@Lark-x5u]

You make a great point, in that people can still show support by the things you mentioned. I work at a residential treatment facility for foster kids. I probably will never foster but I am helping to support those who do. @@mikametcalf3783

[@lucystrider728]

Thank you for mentioning respite care! People doing intense caregiving can get so overwhelmed and exhausted. Also, some parents live in fear of having no backup in an emergency! If you can do the intense caregiving for a brief period of time, you are doing the angel's work and making it possible for the family to carry on successfully. Deep thanks to anyone who works or volunteers in respite work!

[@amys5669]

@@lucystrider728 Respite care, court appointed special advocate (CASA), working with groups that support foster families (Foster the Family, Comfort Cases etc) - lots of way to be involved with fostering without being a foster parent full-time.

[@ElizabethDohertyThomas]

My whole family rolls their eyes every time I mention your name, BUT they know you are awesome and they have felt the benefits of decluttering. 😁 My kids are 16 and 18 now and I KNOW they will have much better adult lives feeling the joy of donating and decluttering!! It's basically Elsa on loop: let it go.... let it go!!

[@sarab9385]

This makes me laugh because I always tell my mom about Dawn from The Minimal Mom and that we’re best friends, Dawn just doesn’t know me. 😂

[@felipelozano933]

IVE BEEN WATCHING MIDWEST CLEANING ABOUT CLEANING HOARDER HOMES...NOW I WANT TO GET RID OF EVERYTHING !

[@Pepsibear63]

You look GREAT in RED DAWN ❤

[@tinaschmitz9232]

To the mom who has an unfinished scrapbook for child. Girl SAME! and my kids are teens now...😅 it's ok. My mom didn't finish my baby blanket until I was 10. 😂 still love my mom.

[@julietsvalstad399]

Take time with your mother and enjoy her. My mother has been gone now 40 years and I still wish I could pick up the phone and call her or go over to her house, so enjoy your mother while you have her.

[@suzie2080]

My mom has been gone since 2010 and I still will think to myself "I should ask mom", and then I remember I can't. You can never get the time back.

[@lisawilliams4669]

You are not alone.

[@happynanna4749]

I say, AMEN!”

[@amyheelis-cannon811]

@@suzie2080I’m sorry you lost your mom. I lost my mom in 2015 and my father 1981. It is hard. Like you I think I need to go visit my mom/dad or phone and then I realize I can’t.

[@lindaroyal8161]

I honestly prefer this type of Q & A; where questions are gathered ahead of time, then responded to on video. I, personally dislike watching the Q & A's where the screen is getting read in actual time, searching for questions. I don't find anything entertaining about watching someone read a screen, just my thing. I take away more from the Q & A style you did today. Thank you.

[@sl9906]

I love these “practical therapy visits” with you! Gosh you’re the BEST! I remember what you said re:gift giving/decluttering that gave me so much peace. You said,”when someone gives you a gift, you thank them and the transaction is over. There is NO requirement/obligation on what you do with that gift after you receive it graciously. Just don’t regift it to that same person 😂

[@sarab9385]

Trying to convince my mom and MIL not to buy so much for my 1 year old son. I have offered the suggestion that instead of buying little $5 or $10 gifts here and there, consider setting that money aside and every time the hit $100, give it to us for his investment account (our solution to college savings). But I’m also going to find a tactful way to let them know that I reserve the right to get rid of anything gifted to him (or to me) in the time and manner that I see fit. I can’t handle the gift guilt!

[@graceday7203]

Hi Dawn, I have wondered what became of the foster care intentions, but I can't say I am disappointed. Yes, I know that good foster care homes are needed, and I think that you and your husband would be fabulous parents to foster kids. In our family, the foster kids were all special needs, and all of the attention it took to provide them with what they needed took all of that attention away from our own children. Our oldest son was affected the most- angry and resentful of all the extra doctor's appointments, special arrangements made for activities for them, the extra time we had to put in. I don't know what the answer is, but in looking back, I wish we had not taken that on. I didn't even feel like we made a difference in the end- abused children were returned to their abusive situations. One little girl clung onto us and screamed that she didn't want to go home. Anyway, when you first announced your plans to foster, I prayed that God would direct your steps. If the time hasn't been right for your family, I'm thankful that you didn't push ahead with it.

[@janeymitchell4675]

I’m so sorry for the time you lost from enjoying your own children.

[@monamorgan9452]

Dawn if you haven’t done this over the last 10 months, paint the inside of your bottom kitchen cabinets white gloss , I did my moms older homes kitchen cabinets and oh my goodness , the difference is amazing. It is like I put a window in the cabinet! Light, bright and you really can see in the back wasteland of the cabinet. A cheap fix👍🏻

[@Dreblueskies]

Wonderful idea!

[@SheilaEnglish2]

I agree!

[@SimpleLife365]

Yes, yes, yes, to this! All closets and cabinets should be white inside. Gloss, semi-gloss, or we prefer a quality washable water-based satin. Clean, bright and easy to touch up as needed.

[@brittanyk3241]

“Wrap with Me” - meanwhile Dawn doesn’t wrap 😂. No judgement, just an observation. I enjoyed listening while making homemade cream of mushroom soup 😊

[@kathy777]

I noticed that too … it’s true multi tasking doesn’t work. 😂 Great video Dawn

[@cindyhenry1410]

Haha I was going to say the same thing....she also changed the title of the video because of it 😅

[@annas4128]

I noticed that about halfway through the video and laughed in my head and thought- I do the same thing when I invite a friend over to be with me while I XYZ. I just end up talking 🤣 We love you Dawn!

[@juanitadejager2273]

She is so passionate and really connects so the wrapping happened later....1000% committed to whatever she does...like a friend visiring and sitting with your feet folded in under you ...sipping coffee and sharing your heart !❤ Love you to bits

[@andreamiller6200]

Dear Dawn, like you like to say: "permission to let [it] (foster care) go" - the time is not now and the future is yet to be written. I fully agree that the way you may best do it, will reveal itself when it is its turn. Having lived for 67 years now with two careers (went to medical school at age 38), I have now had experience with wanting to do something and even proclaiming that I would, only to find that there were many more barriers to proceeding, and then coming to the realization that the time was not right. I had to admit and accept that I was just not going to do right by the goal I thought I could reach, and that benefitted nobody. But at a later point, I did have the capacity to do the thing I thought I could serve and later I did it, or a variation of it to real tangible result. You have so many doors to go through, and isn't that fabulous? You will definitely discover how to partake of this goal of betterment when the time is right. You already are an amazing resource for your audience and for the causes you support. High five and happy holidays!

[@TheMinimalMom]

You are so wise Andrea! Thank you for all of your love and support ❤

[@paulagormley6109]

Dawn, not to add to the anxiety of rapidly aging children….when my son was 15, he started seeing a girl. Two weeks into their relationship, he came home and said, “mom, you’re number two now”!! 😮 They are getting ready to celebrate their 11th wedding anniversary in a week!!!!

[@rebeccab9]

When i was a teenager, i realized my baby photo album only had like a hand full of pages in it. I was a little offended, then went ahead and completed it myself. Guess what? It was fun, i got to choose what pictures of baby me I thought were special, and it was kind of a joke in our home that i made my own baby album. Skip the scrap book, and most of all, skip the mom guilt! ❤️

[@mikametcalf3783]

I love that idea, I think it might be fun to finally make a baby book WITH my still growing kid. Definitely want to consider that if we have another down the road, to remind him he was little once and just as special.

[@graceday7203]

My parents never finished mine, either... so when I was around 40 years old, I let myself into my dad's house, found the closet with all my photos, and brought them to my home to make my album. Yeah... that was 30 years ago and I never even started it! I eventually confessed to my dad what I had done, but I don't regret it since he passed not long after and his wife would have thrown those all in the dumpster like she did with nearly everything else in the house (except for the antiques, which she sold.)

[@ElizabethRBain]

This is a BRILLIANT idea! It could even be a mommy-and-me project with a younger kid.

[@SherryMacoy-dk4zh]

I love the “I’ve been kind of looking at ideas for greenhouses, (haven’t told Tom yet)” 😂😂

[@zitasoregi9340]

It is so refreshing to hear someone (especially someone working with content creation) to say I just wanna go to people’s home and not video it! Well done Dawn you are awesome ! You do you :))))❤

[@mikametcalf3783]

Yes! It's very considerate. I know an influencer and she makes her family be in videos and gets upset if they don't want to. Plus, it's food to be in the moment and focused on the person and the task at hand, not on making it all look good for views.

[@lind774]

As a retired (30+ years) teacher, I appreciate your appreciation. Near the end of my career, I told new teachers 1. the first year is really rough, and about year 5, you will start to feel as if you actually know what you are doing.

[@drewconway7135]

Number of gifts wrapped this video: 0 😂

[@autumncole3283]

My mom and I started watching your videos back in January and can I just say that it has transformed me in my love for my house. I have decluttered and am still decluttering and falling in love with my home more each day. I have also noticed a change in my daily stress and attitude. This journey is amazing!

[@sarahcats8683]

A word of hope to you! 16 is not the end. My girls are 17, almost 18, 14 and 11, almost 12. Our almost 18-year old loves spending time with us at home. We have lots of time with her still. I think this depends a lot on the child and their friends and how much they have going on. Wishing you and your family a Merry Christmas!

[@what.would.Celia.do.....]

Absolutely, your children are only children for a small part of their lives, you build a relationship that will last into adulthood..I think THAT is the goal.

[@Another80sClaire]

Are there any videos about consumerism and stopping the stuff coming in in the first place? I just feel we could all do with help to break the cycle of buying stuff and constantly decluttering.

[@terribrandt8117]

As a retired homeschool mom I just want to encourage you…you are not going to regret this decision because it is fitting your family. Adjusting each year is part of education so adjust…it’s a process. I even saw my educational values change throughout the years. I’m pretty sure yours will change as well. Be blessed!

[@E.Cerulean]

Who is life after homeschooling ???? I am soo curious

[@allison_JR4E]

Would love to see a video of you (and maybe Diana) sorting and decluttering what’s left of yours at your parents house. 🏠👍🏻

[@idid138]

I think she Dawn did this vid. I saw her talking through boxes of things from her girlhood, old dolls and such.

[@jessicamillerbsnrn14]

I’m a foster mom and have been fighting depression the past two months. Fostering has been extra hard lately. I just couldn’t deal with the mess a few kids left in my home. I was hoping for motivation and turn on your vids. I have actually found my depression clearing out. Thank you!

[@rebekahmbbrown8921]

As a homeschool family with four very young kids, we are very often the first family that people think of when they are decluttering clothing, school supplies, toys, etc. I have developed the habit of telling people either “Thank you so much! I’ll pick through this and if there is anything that we don’t need, I’ll pass it along to someone who does” or “That is so sweet of you to think of us! I think we already have what we need of (enter category of things here), but I really appreciate it. Thank you so much!” I have never, EVER had someone be offended at that. (Note: I’ve been pursuing minimalism for a year now thanks to you, Dawn. We aren’t there yet, but our family is just raking in the benefits of the journey.”

[@pegballou9629]

Rebekah helped ME, her MOM! To be able to minimize my things. Great adapter of your material.

[@cynthiaslebodnik6945]

I am a crafter: sewing, quilting, crocheting, scrapbooking. I have put the first one on hold because I don't have the time or energy to multitask my hobbies, so I just spend time on scrapbooking. It is time-consuming but I enjoy the end product. I realize I need to spend time with God, especially reading the Bible, and if hobbies get in the way, my priorities are not in the right place. Enjoy your videos and watch your family grow and change. Merry Christmas 🎄

[@angelahagemeyer698]

No contentment without God! The fasting thing is huge - so thankful the Church builds it into Lent 😂 though or else it would be hard to start. Keep up the good work Dawn!!!

[@cactusbutterfly2939]

About Tom's headaches - fermented foods are a common headache/migraine trigger (wine, balsamic vinegar, kumbucha, etc.) As a longtime migraine/headache sufferer, Neurologists will have you keep a headache journal where you notice what you were doing, eating, the environment when you experience headaches or migraines. Oftentimes, just avoiding triggers can help a lot.

[@claudia_christianmommy]

Dawn, you are the most inspiring person I know (well.. sort of know lol) The way you speak with volumes of wisdom and grace is just a breathe of fresh air and guides me in how I want to maintain my Christian journey. It’s a joy to hear you (even today on my birthday.) whenever you post videos. I am a first time homeschooler of my kindergartner and have been simplifying my home over the last 3 years. You are a gem and a blessing. Thank you!!

[@hillcrew9370]

Dawn, you are an intelligent, interesting person who has hit upon the answer for millions of folks. Many have yet to discover your posts. I have you on my facebook homepage in hopes someone will look you up. You have helped me more than you could know, you and Dana K. White. I'm your new neighbor, living near Eau Claire WI; moved here from Washington state. Because of your help, I was able to downsize the clutter before moving across country. In my new home, I have only what I need, no excess "stuff", which makes clean-up quick and easy. Tidying the house is a breeze! I'm more relaxed with free time to spend with the grandkids thanks to your words of wisdom! God bless you always!

[@kathygoff6942]

I especially appreciated the insight about how we envy something we have disqualified ourselves from. I've been struggling with all my "I can't...." assumptions due to current family obligations. I need to re-examine what I've disqualified myself from and figure out what I really DO have the ability to make happen. AND I got a lot of kitchen stuff done while listening - body doubling really works!

[@liatori6214]

I actually did declutter today, unplanned. 5 items, plus a small stack of paper. The Swedish death cleaning was on my mind, the rest was natural. 😊

[@serenitysummers8514]

YES!!!! Please please please do a certification!!!! My dream is to help other women declutter and I would LOVE a certification course YOU create!!! 💜

[@lisakrings5419]

I adore how you present your thoughts that include Santa in a way that doesn’t give things away. You’re so thoughtful. I also love how, no matter how well known you get, you continue to be so down to earth and real. 🎄🥰

[@sandramesa6945]

A friend of mine would get migraines and she found out she had an allergy to the chemicals on the wheat. So she uses organic flour and doesn’t have that problem anymore..versus being gluten intolerant.

[@ShamelesslyCreative]

I forgot....We also have mostly given up gift giving but when we do, we ask what is one thing you want that you just keep not buying for yourself. Usually it is a simple thing a book, a class, a mug, a craft supply or a new frame for a favorite picture... sometimes the simplest things we go without because we dont NEED it so it get down graded but it could give us joy. When asking they get excited about finally getting that one thing which ends up usually the best gift and it is the thing I will hear a lot about over the following time period or see it in their home being used because it has that momentum of wanting behind it.

[@KellyBoettcher-qo9tx]

I tell my husband all the time. The minimal mom says ...... ha ha. I've been decluttering big time about 25% gone.

[@ourfamilyvideos7283]

Ours is 19 and she LOVES to be with us..we play games, watch tv and go out to eat and church together…spending time now will ensure they want to spend time in their teens

[@cherylciston]

Dawn...I got alot done during our visit😂, but I have to mention YOU didn't get anything wrapped! I want to let you know how much I appreciate you!!

[@meggonemad2024]

I wish the system worked, but it seems to be broken in every state. We have been fostering for almost 5 years and hope to have an adoption go through in spring of 24. We always thought we would have more than one child but the commitments that CPS wants from foster parents are out of control and working full-time makes it very difficult. It breaks my heart when I have to turn down a placement but we’re blessed to have the child that we do and hope to have our adoption done soon. Bless you for helping I know how you feel because once we are done next year, we are done.❤

[@christinae30]

@meganfedrick5983: I so hope that the adoption will go through! Will pray 💙💛💚🙋‍♀️🇸🇪

[@tiffanieshannon1068]

Getting caught up in envy and always searching for something else becomes less and less, the deeper we come to know and experience God. Our hearts are restless until they rest in Him. We find in Him the love we crave, our purpose and the meaning of our life. We come to be content in all circumstances, yet everything begins to be put in right order as an effect of our relationship with Him. We share the gifts, that we come to recognize in ourselves that He's given us, with others. Thanks for sharing your gifts, Dawn.

[@nataliej7135]

I started another decluttering session today and looked for something on KZbin for motivation to listen to in the background-lo and behold Dawn posted a new video, BEST MOTIVATION ever!! After few hours took a big bag to a donation site,. When my husband came home he looked around the house and said “it looks more spacious!” Thank you Dawn!!

[@cindytaylor698]

Good Lord willing, you have lots more years with her, Dawn. Things will change but you will always be close because you foster the relationship. My kids are 43, 35, and 29 and I am still incredibly close to them. 💙❤️❤️

[@KasiJayPeil]

I know not every wants to hear this answer. But contentment comes from so much it's not a one and done thing. Living beyond ourself and purposefully for others really helps, but ultimately contentment is found in Jesus. And we're not gonna find it everyday, we're going to find it by seeking him day in and day out and letting him transform us into his likeness. Well never be perfect well still have bad days, but contentment is found in Jesus and his sacrifice and love for us, dedicating our lives to Him.

[@SimplyEnjoyingLife]

I have a partially completed wedding scrapbook.....I've been married almost 19 years. 😂 I've given up any thoughts for doing other scrapbooks but since we don't have an actual wedding album, I would like to finish the scrapbook. I had started out with minimal embellishments so it shouldn't be hard. I need to revisit it come January and either complete it or buy an album for my pictures. 😊

[@ashleybenchek7352]

I am seeing bandwidth absolutely changes with the seasons in your life. This year was the first time in about 10 years that we have put up a Christmas tree. The last tree decorating I did before this year was not enjoyable, took weeks to complete (worked a lot of hours as a RN), and was something I had come to dread. Not putting up the tree for those years, I see now, was the best thing I could have done for my sanity. We have since had 3 children, moved while finishing a fixer-upper, and finally this year when my youngest (4 yo) asked about a tree, I felt the excitement again about decorating a Christmas tree. People used to look at me like I had 2 heads when I told them we didn't do a tree. Now the time is right and we are enjoying it everyday. Be true to yourself and listen to how you feel.

[@designdoctor247]

21:42 we gave up trash pick up for a year and when we brought it back i felt RICH!!! seriously😊

[@AMcDub0708]

My oldest just turned 16. I literally blinked. One day I was driving her to school and activities and the very next she’s driving herself while I’m waving goodbye at the door in my pajamas and coffee in hand. I thought I would be like “yessss!!” and pat myself on the back. Instead I cried in my coffee and can’t believe how it all changed like that. She works, has speech, concert choir, swing choir, is in the school play, leadership club etc. So no, now I NEVER see her 😭

[@Lindster2012]

😭❤ your comment made me emotional. I’m not a mom, (yet?) but I love children, I was a teacher for several years and I love watching children grow up, I practically raised my two little sisters when they were small, and now they’re grown, it’s such a beautiful blessing but bittersweet. God bless.

[@strawberrylove5684]

I was so happy to hear that you’re not a judgy mom about homeschooling versus not homeschooling! A healthy attitude 💖

[@NaomiC336]

I wish we would have had internet in my young years. I remember probably 35 years ago a friend started decorating her kitchen with apple items. So many people gave her stuff. She told me “I don’t feel obligated to keep everything people give me if I don’t want to”. That really spoke to me and I’ve started using that motto especially since watching you. Thank you.

[@evatoon984]

❤Dawn, your video of your trip to Mexico broke me in a way I didn’t know I needed breaking 💔 the story you shared and the video footage, the gratitude of the people receiving a home that we would call a garden shed. It created so much contentment in my heart ♥️, we were just moving into an unfinished but new home, and it made me see it in a whole new way, it is still unfinished and most days it doesn’t bother me in the least. Thank you for sharing 💚

[@BayRaeDay]

I hope there’s a part 2 where we can see what you wrapped and hear you talk through gift giving thoughts!

[@diana.l.gentry]

Contentment is reached more at a spiritual level than what you do.

[@annalisamolina2394]

53:00 I decluttering all of my yearbooks, and I have never regretted it. it was super freeing that I had the power to not let that take up an entire shelf of my one bookshelf, when I had not looked at it in 11 years

[@lynn7348]

I believe we are unsatisfied looking to worldy things for comfort. Its the love and attention from our Heavenly Father that fulfils our heart desires and makes us content. Personal opinion.

[@RachelAnn27]

Scrap book? Mom guilt? (Are they fed, loved, warm enough, have functional clothing and do you put your phone down when they are talking to you)? If so, permission to let go the guilt. ❤

[@tondacottle8454]

I absolutely agree. But, in addition I don’t do candles. The smell will turn me off after awhile. Even the scents I normally like, after a while are just like if I never smell that again it will be too soon. If I want candle light I use battery operated. I don’t do cards at all. People may keep them awhile and then throw them away. As far as people buying me gifts, I tell them I don’t want anything. But if they insist, I tell them don’t buy me anything that can’t be consumed. If I can’t eat it or clean with it, thanks but no thanks. 🥰

[@leighannamullett5201]

My kids and I literally just finished decluttering toys to make room for new ones they will be getting for Christmas! It feels so good. We always have a donate box in our garage for things we don’t need. Where we live there are several charities that come certain days to pick up boxes by the curb. It is so easy and convenient!

[@ginazee84]

Gluten Free Sourdough! My hubby converted his starter by using GF flour when feeding it. Eventually we figure it has worked the original flour out. He makes me scones and so many other things with it. I love that! In my experience of receiving items from others I have implemented a couple of phrases to use. First, I say ”This is so generous. Thank you! If it doesn’t work for me, do you mind me passing it along?” Or I say, “I will try it and if I’m not able to use it where would you like me to take it?” Both have worked in the toughest of situations. From my own declutter journey I learned that having someone else move my stuff along helps me let go, so I will do that for others. Even if I just take it to the donation center myself.

[@SassySue67]

Just took a box of Christmas stuff I don’t use to the thrift store today. I declutter daily even if it’s five minutes. I used to hold on to things because someone gave it to me out of guilt, I don’t anymore. If I’m not using it or don’t love it, it goes in the donate box.

[@Chrissyhappy]

I’ve done the same this year. First time.😊

[@ashleymcdaniel6188]

We just found out we’re expecting for the 1st time at 38. I’m excited but terrified of clutter I’ve worked for 2 years watching you to slowly declutter our home and it feels so much better… we have no idea what we need but man I have been so Overwhelmed with all the add of stuff “you have to have” for baby and mom i would love and appreciate a video or resources on what’s actually needed and beneficial I think that would be a neat video from you and Dianna since she’s in that season now I DO NOT want unnecessary items coming in our home and want to know what should actually go on the registry

[@TheDeepRedCharlie]

If you are involved with other moms in a similar or somewhat ahead of you life stage, you will often find that you can borrow or get as hand-me-downs many many baby items. Our church has what feels like a revolving library of baby things, and when someone is done using an item for that baby, they offer it to the next mom coming to that need. So don't think that you personally have to possess many of these things, or that they have to be stored in your house when you aren't using them.

[@ashleymcdaniel6188]

@@TheDeepRedCharlie that’s a great idea your church has started!

[@michele6708]

Don’t feel like you have to do everything up front. If people want to gift you things, see if they will consider gift cards or a delayed gift you can redeem as you determine what you really need. You will always need diapers, if nothing else, but who knows what size? My son went from 8 lbs to 17 in 2 months, so newborn clothes/diapers were not a thing for long! You will have more time than you think in the first few weeks after the baby is born, so you can work through things bit by bit. As your child outgrows things, pass them on so someone else can use them and they don’t become clutter.

[@magpie3571]

About a season when one has more time (minute 37:10), since the year after my son graduated home school (I stayed an extra year in co-op for the last pre-K child), I have had so much time on my hands. I'm good at finding things to do, but I still need to know what I'm here for. When I was 16 and prayed and gave my life to God, the thought came to me, "You're going to have a child and homeschool him." Now what? Maybe I should pray again. It's like a weird holding pattern. The book, "You're Late Again, Lord!" is phenomenal. That's the answer! That's what I'm doing now - work while you wait. There are things to be learned while waiting for the next thing.

[@rosannasauereisen2827]

My kids are 18, 16, and 13 now. The oldest graduated from our homeschool this spring. I'm struggling what I'll do when there all gone from home. I already feel like I have too much time on my hands only homeschooling two. I need a direction but I don't know what it is.

[@magpie3571]

@@rosannasauereisen2827 I've been praying about if for 2 years. Now I'm in a sewing class. Sometimes the answers are in front of us, but we don't recognize them. It's like making a cake. We want the cake, but there are multiple factors, ingredients, and steps that have to be taken care of first.

[@rosannasauereisen2827]

@@magpie3571 I've wondered if I should get a part time job...But I've never known what I wanted to do with my life apart from being a wife and mom. I didn't plan to homeschool but God clearly told me to. It isn't that there aren't things to do, there are. I think I feel a lack of purpose. I should pray about it more, though. Thanks for that reminder.

[@teresaschwarz1243]

My daughter is grown now and we are best friends. ❤️

[@Saaaa2324]

Here’s what I do when my dough needs to rise: I place it in the oven with the light on. I close the door and turn the oven on the lowest temp for about 20 seconds. Then I turn the oven off (but leave the light on). I set a timer for the rise, and it stays warm enough! If you get back into sourdough making, perhaps this method will work for you too! 😊

[@teriw56]

Dawn, I like your videos. I like when you collaborate with other video bloggers. Your videos are non judgmental and encouraging. Keep up the great work.

[@bonnisnyder6964]

We homeschooled (unschooled) our daughter for her entire school career, beginning at age 3 ½. I know that every situation is different, but for us, it was the best possible choice. She has now "graduated" and is in her second year of college, making almost all As (1 B) and has made the Dean's list or President's list each term. As for socialization, I always hated that question. We always joked that homeschooling was a misnomer because we were almost never home. There were too many activities and playdates!

[@ginazee84]

I agree about the socialization worries people express. My kids knew so many people and could converse with adults and kids alike on many subjects. Homeschooling my kids was good for them. We too spent time in many activities.

[@bluefan84]

I homeschool our three kids and this is always my thought too. My challenge is making sure we spend enough time at home to actually get stuff done and have some downtime. There are so many fun and educational opportunities in our area it seems like we could be out with friends everyday!

[@sherryg1838]

Same here! We had lots of activities with our homeschool groups and co-op. We weren’t unschoolers, but we were very relaxed. My daughter is now 23 and in her last year of college.

[@dsmith9796]

The ages of 9 through 14 are magical years - enjoy every precious day. I wish I could have a Time Machine and go back if even for one day as now my daughter is 30, a doctor, and works 5 hours away by car!

[@conniegibson9740]

Scrapbooking: My kids are now 34, 30, 24 and 21. I have time to scrapbook. I have finished the scrapbooks I started when my kids were kids. I have filled several 200 page albums. And I organized the rest of the photos into photo boxes, after I went through them and destroyed the doubles. I laid out all the portrait packages and school photos and asked family members what they wanted. I’ve given away and recycled the rest of the scrapbooking materials. Only two of my children want albums. Once they are settled in their own homes, I’ll pass them on and just keep a couple for myself. So if you are in the middle of the whirlwind raising kids, keep taking photos, and print a handful each year, but don’t stress about getting them in scrapbooks. You’ll have time later.

[@singerjo5791]

I think contentment comes with serving others.

[@kristinastyers3004]

YES!!! Homeschool mom of 3 boys here (in our 10th year) and it is totally sanctification on steroids!!!! That is the best definition ever!!!

[@pamelamaurer2076]

I have a suggestion in regards to foster care. My family (growing up and now with my own kids) is the Fresh Air Fund. It is a program where kids from inner cities come stay with you in the country for a week in the summer. That felt a lot more manageable Another thing we did was have kids stay with us for either a weekend or week from Japan. I am in Massachusetts so I don’t know what exists in your area.

[@sherryhammaker3640]

As far as contentment, yes decluttering helps and using what we have instead of purchasing helps. For me, these things have helped, but the one thing that has brought lasting contentment is a personal relationship with Jesus. He gives me everything I need in life, and it's only by His grace that I can find freedom from the pulls of this world. He is the definition of peace. I hope that this Christmas, you take a second look at the baby in the Manger. He was born for the purpose of dying on a cross for our sins. He is alive and can bring you lasting peace and contentment if you surrender your life to Him!

[@namelessname1930]

Beautiful

[@camm8832]

Dawn, I grew up in many different foster homes & group homes & now as a full time professional with a blended family of my own, being a foster parent won’t work for me at the moment but I am a volunteer Guardian Ad Litem in a nearby county & I highly encourage you & your viewers to look into this. In FL there are classes & a background check required & then you’re able to visit youth in their placements (group or foster homes) to advocate for them and their needs while in care of the state. Happy Holidays everyone! ☮️

[@nancyhurt7145]

I'm a volunteer CASA (court appointed special advocate) for foster kids. After I retired, I wanted to be of service but felt I was too old to have foster children in my 70's! This is a way to be involved and the rewards are many with this program which is all over the country. I have numerous foster families that offer a loving and stable home for kids, and then a few which I pray are doing a better job than my heart tells me. Yes, they are there for the kids, but the love and family I recognize from my own family just feel like it's missing something in a few foster homes. One has 7 foster children with 2 of their own for a total of 9 in a 3 bedroom home. They just keep dropping off more as there just aren't enough homes available. The system is messed up and overworked for sure. Enjoyed this video, Dawn!

[@suzie2080]

You have really changed my life Dawn. I absolutely love your honesty.

[@johnangelformby106]

Dawn, I think you are an awesome. Thanks for sharing and being open.

[@katiej8596]

Thank you from the bottom of my heart for your honesty around the 33 minute mark about decluttering gifts and what you want from your home that you want it to be minimalist or simple and to be easy and that you don't want to take 2 hours to have to clean it and all that. I just really appreciate your open and honest comments and advice. This hits hard in my heart so thank you for understanding what it's like and to helping us through all this.

[@madde89bubbsan]

If fostering is on hold for now, are you going to rearrange your kids room and move anyone downstairs? Just because you've talked about the boys room being a bit small for them

[@Karen-DeMars]

Such lovely, high-quality content … thanks for enriching my life, Dawn! 🥰

[@daisybuchanan5378]

Dawn, no guilt. I worked with my beautiful Golden Retriever to become a therapy dog, and after all the training and education, I guiltily admitted I don’t want to, and don’t have the bandwidth or personality to undertake this wonderful endeavor. I’ve given myself grace to move on without guilt. And the teen years are wonderful; you’ll be glad you devoted all the time to your kids.

[@blackwhite1406]

Yes! I LOVE the longer videos. I cant get enough of them ❤ Thank you! Blessings to you 🙏🤍🙏🤍

[@Amandcr]

If you sew you can make reusable fabric bags to put presents in. I do that for our presents (for birthdays too) and wrap gifts to give away.

[@erikastanger7848]

Yes, it's absolutely true that once they drive, you don't see much of them. My daughter goes to school, dances five days a week, does church stuff, and friends. She drives to all of them. All of that time I would have been driving her is gone. I don't see her much. It's the way of life, but it's so sad that they grow up so quickly! My next one in line will have her permit soon. It's crazy!

[@lilliemcneil4458]

A suggestion for the childhood yearbooks... offer them up to former classmates, alumni groups, and/or schools. I know people that have experienced fires/disasters where their belongings were destroyed and desired to collect items like this again.

[@LP-tu8li]

Homeschooling is an adventure you will never regret.

[@snellingd1]

I am a twin also and though we have not always been close, we have as of late become very close (I lost my husband last October and shortly after her husband asked for a divorce 😢) so now we have each other’s back!!! ❤ you and Diana are so 🥰

[@CarynRowland]

Love your suggestion of putting all photos in one scrapbook!!! I have at least 3 different ones partially done!!!

[@kathy777]

We had a garage before we moved and then another after. That was 20 years ago. Now we just use marketplace or free sites.

[@dustiehayden3545]

Contentment comes with the love of Jesus. That's all I could hear and thinkvof when you spoke. Look to Him, not others or other people's situations to make you feel a certain way. He can only fulfill you🤗

[@stacievoorhis5160]

You are an awesome, amazing human. Thank you for sharing your thoughts and wisdom with us. ❤

[@loritompkins6333]

Every kid is different but at some point (15-20”ish”) they will stop wanting to spend time with you. It will hurt so much! But on the flip side, it means you have taught them to be their own person. The good news is, they will “come back” to you. The years in between will be so hard and often times heartbreaking, but it seems to be the way life progresses. I say all this from personal experience and from talking to friends with kids of varying ages. SPEND TIME WITH THEM WHILE THEY WANT TO BE WITH YOU! Even if it’s just one afternoon every couple of weeks or so. Doing something they want to do and have conversations they want to have. Then, hang on to the moments while you wait for them to realize they can be independent AND want to hang out with mom. 🥰

[@jwuertz7101]

A scrap book middle ground is to have an album with a photo in one sleeve and then an index card in the sleeve below or opposite to provide a description or memory.

[@cindygrim3060]

I have met Dorothy too, her ministry is amazing

[@VickiDecie]

The best gift I have given my adult kids is when I told them they never had to keep anything I have gifted them unless they want to.

[@missybrown4734]

I have 6 kids, i homeschooled them. They are all grown up but i dont ever feel like I lost them. I am still very close to them, its more of a friendship but i do still let them know I am mom and at times still correct them. They have blessesd me with 14 grandkids and one more on the way. You dont lose them they add to the blessing

[@NickyJ311]

This is my first year of homeschooling

[@susanhammitt7080]

I agree that you need to hold things loosely. I know when I try to force my will and not wait on God I make it so hard for myself.