Keeping the House Under Control During Loosey-Goosey Times

I'm sharing some important things to remember as we head into the loosi-goosiness of summer.
www.aslobcomes...

[@barbaracarr17]

My sister just had a heart attack. She's in the hospital. I'm trying to help get her house better--not perfect--for her to come home. She was really having trouble with her health and Covid-caused inability to get some help. Your techniques are helping me so much to help her: look for trash! I'm doing probably 20 loads of clothes today. You are a lifesaver Dana! Because of you I don't feel so overwhelmed and am able to do one step at a time. Always look: I looked through a pile of her mail and discarded junk mail. Found 4 overdue important bills that I could take care of to keep her insurance from being canceled and get her cars registered, etc . And, yes, DO THE DISHES!

[@KatyInNH]

Bless you for helping her !

[@bethjloveswax]

Barbara, your sister is so blessed to have you. My dad had a heart attack in January and my mom and I had to do a lot to help him feel less overwhelmed with everything going on. Once we finish 5 or 6 little things, it has a bigger impact than starting to help with something big. Praying for you and your sister and for her heart to heal.

[@barbaracarr17]

@@bethjloveswax Thank you so much!❤

[@Fiery154]

You are such a blessing to her

[@kimcoburn9798]

God bless you for coming along side your dear sister. Prayers for her recovery.

[@joyceroberts1354]

Dana…Dishes!! Ugh! But you are spot on! After living in China for 2 years, My daughter stayed with me for a short time.Several times I caught her hand washing the dishes..I told her “just use the dishwasher.” Her response… Mom, it helps me to acclimate.” Washing dishes is a world wide necessity since the beginning of time. And for my daughter it was therapeutic. Thx for sharing experience & knowledge.

[@user-ij9uk8tn8i]

"But do you know what actually changed my house? Doing my dishes. And doing 5 minute pick-ups. And getting stuff out of my house". Amen to that. So true. I'm sitting here, tired, overwhelmed - looking to you for a bit of inspiration/motivation/encouragement - and there it is right there. Do the basics. Little and often. One small step at a time. Progress not perfection. We can do this!! Thank You Dana :) xx

[@sarahamill1793]

Enjoy your time off! Us “true” slob fans will still be here waiting for your return! Savour your summer with your family, thanks for all you do for us xoxox

[@gailmpintos7232]

Hi Dana, hope you are enjoying your time with the kids this summer. Just want to let you know that the concept of limiting the space to keep items in our "living container" has been a Godsend! I am one of those "but what if I need it" people that has anxiety if I think of getting rid of something I think is useful. It has gotten worse with the recent shortages. I have been VERY successful with limiting the amount I keep to one container.....and I recycle or remove the rest. Keeps everything manageable, and I have it if I need it......no anxiety when it goes in the trash or recycling. I am also a multicrafter.....sewing, quilting, embroidery, knit, and crochet. I have been diligently reducing all my stashes, including tools I do not use. I have been working on finishing projects, I cannot buy yarn unless I need it for a specific project. I shop my stash first. I just boxed up 90% of my embroidery stash to give to my little sister. I only kept a few projects that I thought I might finish......and where would I look for it first? also has been a Godsend. So, thank you....look forward to your return. 💜💜💐

[@jeanerdman143]

You create phrases that become my go tos. New this time-don’t reinvent, restart. You are a mastermind of phrases. It is your talent. Now that my material stuff is an inventory I can manage. I have also learned to take it there now right away throughout the day so my pickups don’t take so long. I am now thinning out and reducing activities and commitments. I also do much less shopping as a form of relaxation and stress relief. I am living a more meaningful life.

[@magswilliams-fuller8879]

Have a brilliant summer. Enjoy the break and recharge. Love to you and your family. Special thanks to Reid for slowing the credits so I can read them now. xxx

[@msmellowmood84]

Thank you. No one has spoken to my type of thinking like this.

[@jodi9295]

Oh, I should have watched to the end. You have a great summer. Being a mom is plenty of work. I know! Having a break can be really refreshing. Can't wait until fall!

[@metalheads228]

Wow! Putting your mental health and your family first...what a concept!! Good for you girl!!

[@Ann.shecopeswithhope]

1. We love you! 2. Cried when you talked about summer off, because YES my kiddos are grown and out - TAKE the summer and BE with them!!! 3. Cried again when you choked up that Reid is going away. 4. Lost it with the end notes and laughed at the same time. HUGS my friend. God bless you and your summer!!!

[@user-ij9uk8tn8i]

Hahah! Yes - those credits were brilliant!! :D

[@josephdaly2015]

Looking after yourself is and should alway be top priority. Well done 👏 Have a wonderful summer. Stay safe and healthy. Mary 👏👍💪🙏💐

[@kayelle8005]

I’ve been really ill for the past two and a bit years and have just had a run of flu in January gastro in February, flu in March, flu in May and now bacterial bronchitis on top of my chronic health conditions. Living alone in a simplified house has made this much easier than it would have been otherwise. Doing the dishes is sometimes all I can do and other times I can add in the five minute pickups but my house has stayed under control virtually the whole time. Not perfect behind every cupboard door in the bedrooms, but all the other drawers and cupboards and all the visible surfaces are company ready. Thank you for all your tips, wisdom and inspiration.

[@annseigman1824]

Will miss you. Recharge and refresh. Enjoy the freedom of summer!

[@gabs190]

I like “loosey-goosey” instead of “in a rut” lol 😂 how about having a newborn and 4 siblings under 11 😂 wish me luck this summer! 💪🏼🙏🏼

[@astrongmama]

Summers off is a great idea, especially at the big transition times. Big kudos to Reid on his great accomplishment. I think it's safe to say that we are proud of him with you.

[@freeschmidt]

Dude, do you know how super helpful it is to have you keep saying the obvious things like 'do the dishes' and 'throw out the trash'? sooooo helpful. Your videos and podcasts and audiobooks are the soundtrack of me working on my house. Thank you so much for being willing to say the obvious thing over and over. Have an awesome summer! See you in the fall!

[@amy2284]

I love your tips… I always think 🤔 you are the best person to draw on when I freeze from feeling overwhelmed- your steps unsticks me from immobilization.

[@mossyoakmom8880]

I was making sure to clean my bathroom once a week. It didn’t matter what day, just as long as it was done Friday at the latest. I did so good with it for several months. We then went on a 2 week trip and my habit went all to heck...the trip was 4 years ago😂.

[@jillianguilford5191]

I have a plan of eating from my pantry/freezer and fridge and growing food indoors at big windows. I'm setting up the pantry areas by cuisine in unbreakable containers that stack. The take it there now works well for this project. I'm retired and chronicly in pain or ill. So my life's definition is loosy-goosy.

[@minimalqueen7523]

“Better and less” is one of my favorite quotes. Thanks!

[@estherniekoley21]

This summer I started getting the children to clean up their bedroom floors in the morning (dirty laundry etc). And also we make their beds every morning. For me that’s a huge boost if we can get that done!

[@StitchinGranny]

Dana I hope you see this. I just want you to know how grateful I am to have found your videos! Everything you teach makes sense and has helped me so much!!! Today I finished the majority of my upstairs that every summer when school was out I was going to declutter and clean. One example: I chose a space for my knitting and crocheting books and now have 3 stacks of books to take to the library! Even a cherished collection of one author! Every year friends and family have chuckled, rolled their eyes, etc. when I say I’m going to do this when school is out. Well not any more!!!!!! It feels like a weight has been lifted!!!!! This will be the first year I can go back to school not feeling like I failed yet again!!! And I’m so happy you take summers off to enjoy your family! Enjoy your break and thank you again for all of your wonderful advice! I’ll read your latest book while you’re offline.

[@ninak8506]

Also... I have moved to a new home & have also been using your decluttering & cleaning habits. Trash first, donate bin & "take it there now". As my daughter & I were setting up the dining room, we found stuff from all over the house. I'd grab it or hand it off and say, "Dana says take it there now!" 😁 thx Dana

[@rosannabare6710]

You have changed my life so much!! Thank you for all of your podcasts, videos, and I hope to one day buy the books! I am a teacher and mother, so thank you for enjoying your summer with your family. Meanwhile, I’m restarting your Podcasts from the beginning, and I must say, thank you for being brave enough to share your struggles. You feel like my big sister.💕

[@terryharmon4542]

"Take it there now" has helped me in so many ways... unpacking from business trips, and just coming home each day. Thanks for the inspiration!!

[@debrabowie5141]

Have a good summer.

[@simplegiftsandtruths8263]

We'll miss you Reid. Thank you for helping/working for your mom so we can all enjoy these videos. All the best for you. And congratulations on graduating! Yay! Thank you Dana for your ever practical help.

[@rosanne7804]

Dana, I hope you have an absolutely wonderful Summer. I hope you and your family squeeze every single moment out of every single day. A season of rest, self-care and time with those you love is vital. ❤️ Kudos to you, Reid. Congratulations on your next chapter.

[@ginabee1212]

Enjoy your summer, Dana! We have plenty of your videos to watch and review!! Thank you again!

[@lizzabbott]

Oooh yes ! Take the summer off, Dana ! Rejuvenate yourself & prevent burn out. Pacing yourself for the WIN ! I love this !! Thanks for another great video ! Hugs from Buffalo NY , Liz

[@kimberlywalker280]

Dana, you're being so wise...to really focus on your family...kids need their parents EVEN MORE when they're teens....and, for yourself You need that time...I APPLAUD you. LOVE your videos ....so practical. Yesterday, I was putting away the Easter...and, getting out the summer decor. I decided, at that moment, to practice your method of "putting it away" with the decor that suddenly became donations....it felt so good to just go put it in the garage donation box right at that moment....in fact, I got rid of 1 whole tote...YAYYYY!!😀😀😀

[@lovinglife3954]

Good for you. I think that’s great you’re taking a kind of Sabbath/sabbatical over the summer. I have teacher friends who get this as part of their job. The rest of us need to figure out how to make something similar happen for ourselves.❤ I’ve just started with your books. I’ve listened to Decluttering at the Speed of Life at least twice and now listening to How to Manage Your Home Without Losing Your Mind. Good stuff!

[@cyclone8644]

I have never seen a KZbinr put up such timely and relevant videos. It happens with your vids over and over, lol! The last 2 weeks my controlled areas went full kaboom due to schedules and now garden season. Thanks for this. If I need a SCC fix, I'll just pull up one of your audio books! Enjoy your time with Reid!

[@barbkandel777]

Dana, it's perfectly great that you want to take a summer break and spend time with your family!!! We'll be here when you get back! Have a great summer!!!!!!!!!!

[@littlesheetable]

Thank you Dana for take it there now! This concept screamed NOOOO! to me on so many levels down to my core. But then in my head I saw all the times that I had piles all over a room to take places and I got a phone call and I had to stop, well I ran out of time, or I ran out of energy or day. I put all the piles back together in one big pile and promised myself I'd do it the following day or weekend. Did that happen? NOOOOOO! I realize now that you are brilliant and I'm a tad slow. Thank you so very much Dana for everything! Enjoy your family! Hugs to you💜

[@happyeveryday13]

Love this one! With 11 kids, their spouses, 17 grandkids and in-laws living with us, life is only loosey-goosey.🤣 Thank you for the reminder!

[@katiesoderling3596]

Wow!! That’s a lot of people in one house! Puts thinks in perspective for me! 😆

[@jinglesh1398]

Enjoy your summer with your family. You and Reid will be missed deeply. 🥲

[@marvellousmrsmoller]

Thank you! My husband is disabled. On good weeks he goes out for an hour on Tuesday and Thursday mornings. But it is not reliable, and he often comes home sooner than I thought. For a long time I have not felt able to start the sorting-out because I might be interrupted, I do get interrupted! Doing the dishes means we have clean plates and cutlery and saucepans. When I get to other bits, that's a bonus.

[@myaccount9498]

Yessss 💕

[@angelastoutenger7944]

Family comes first! Enjoy the summer and time off. We will be here whenever you are.

[@MakeItFunJackson5]

This is so relevant. My kids are 3, 6, & 7. My oldest has special needs & has been hospitalized 7 times since September. My house was already OOC (out of control) and it’s gotten worse and worse. Thank you for making me feel normal.

[@myaccount9498]

Hope yr 7yo is well again soon 🤗. Yes the clutter struggle is real. 5mins better is good enough 💕

[@justlovelyj.l.349]

Goodness I will miss y’all like crazy. Thanks for letting us know it’s just a temporary break. You are such a blessing to my family. I am so grateful for all you give to us viewers. Thanks Reid for helping your mom- you are amazing!!

[@rmf4]

Enjoy your time with your family. We'll be here on your return.💗🙋‍♀️🇦🇺

[@newmoondarkmoon]

Dana I hope you see this message. I know you don’t consider your self to be a minimalist. I have been practicing minimalism for 6 years. Your work which I came across maybe a year ago and have really embraced over the past 5 months ago - has been more helpful and impactful than any single persons method or info. I always recommend your videos to people because it’s the thing that can make the biggest difference especially for beginners. When I first saw Dawn do the no mess decluttering method in one of her videos I’m sure I rolled my eyes and thought it was just silly to work in that way. I’m definitely a convert now tho. And with take it there now, the container concept etc- I’ve been able to go farther than I have in the past. Thank you

[@babytexan3038]

I feel the same!

[@Fiery154]

Me too! I have read so many books and they can be so dang preachy. Dana has been down in the trenches and her method is so simple and straight forward. I can do her method.

[@njmaryannez]

I remember that video from Dawn! So glad she found Dana & eventually both teamed up with Cass so that I could Take Back my House. Have a great summer Dana & Reid!

[@Alice-iu5wr]

As a retired teacher, I understand the need for summers off. ENJOY!! And many thanks for all that you do💝.

[@barbg4331]

Have a fabulous summer with your family! We will enjoy seeing you again when you return. Make some fun memories! And I do want to hear about that okra…but first family.😊❤️

[@melissaweller3718]

Way to model self care! Good job Dana and Reid! Also, doing the dishes first is really helping, I am including picking up trash now. Thank you Dana, have a rejuvenating summer!

[@susanbliese3603]

Dear Editor, she cares. I can see the Mama love in her eyes as she paused. I have one joining the army. It is hard as a mama. You will both make it.

[@tonialsup1750]

Hope you’re blessed with a safe and joyful summer and a wonderful time with your family.💜✝️

[@fianorian]

I'll miss your pep talks, but I totally get the need for time off. I look forward to your return with the colder weather. Have a great summer. (And washing the dishes has become my go-to nowadays.)

[@cltinturkey]

You and Reid are both great, and I hope you have lots of time for summer fun! Thank you for your clear, consistent messages and strategies. They really resonate with me and I'm chipping away at the overflow bit by bit. Rest, relax, and play this summer!

[@lyndallparker8186]

Hi Dana!! Since I read your new book, I have been mostly doing the dishes before bedtime. I'm going to go on a holiday for respite and hoping to rest up and walk along the beach...hoping the weather will be nice!! it looks promising!! Thank you so much for turning my life around without you, Dawn and Cassandra, I would be in a bigger mess now..

[@mariaolker]

Have a relaxing summer!

[@carlalambousy824]

This resonates! I’ve read two of your three books and l’m nearly finished decluttering the house with the goal of all spaces limited to 60% full or less. l’m newly retired, so l’m having more visits at my house. Company dropped in unannounced last week and I enjoyed the co. in a clean and neat house. These are my deals… 1. Beds made, and dishes done immediately after any snack or meal. 2. Laundry started, but not removed from the dryer until I can fold and put each load away (with the exception of clothes l don’t want wrinkled). 3. Everything else is in its place because I don’t put it down, l put it away where it belongs, as you suggest. This, friend, is golden 🏆!!! 4. Multi-tasking leaves several projects scattered around. l don’t do that (except for laundry). One task means a fast pick-up. 5. l stick to a daily schedule of housework duties. ln the summer, l double them up because l have yardwork to do and some painted house-trim to keep clean. So, it doesn’t take me longer than 10 minutes to tidy the house before someone says they’re on their way. In that situation, I might have only to sweep the front porch, and wipe down the front door. Basically, chores are non-negotiable, unless life happens, as in summer when the grandkids are here often. I’ll use your tips. Thank you.

[@cherylbowers4502]

You deserve to have a summer off. Enjoy your family and relax! Some will be waiting and some will be impatiently waiting for your return. I hope come back with wonderful memories of your family and relaxed.

[@suestewart546]

Very wise decision. Enjoy your summer Sabbath.

[@janeanderson2514]

Congratulations on reaching 100,000 subscribers! You have been such a help to me through your books, groups, KZbin, etc. It's awesome seeing so many others benefitting from the insights you share. You are so much appreciated. Thank you for all you do to keep us moving forward and hope you're enjoying your time off!

[@JustineAnderson1]

Have a wonderful summer! Thank you, Reid, for all of your hard work! I always enjoy the credits!!! I look forward to videos and podcasts in the fall, and meanwhile I will simply rewatch, relisten, and reread. No one else helps me as much as you do. Thank you!

[@myheartsdesire643]

Thanks Dana...well I'm a retiree...no kids at home only 5 little dogs and I still got loosey goosey and let my house go for awhile ...bad decision cuz as we all know then the bad fairies bring in stuff and I get over whelmed again...but I'm back to gettin it done again! You are very wise Dana to take the summer off and enjoy your life and your family all you can. We all need that kind of mental reset too. Love Reid for his credits and humor ...like mother like son. I wish you all the best and will see you in the fall!!

[@pameehanson3866]

I say my clutter has babies in the night! Actually I forget the one in and out thing. Even with decluttering i realize it is a process and takes time. Thanks for sharing

[@FrattandChelsea]

Enjoy your summer with your family, Dana!!! Thank you for all you do AND thank Reid too!!!!

[@jackierux1345]

Praying for Texas

[@TheMrsbrady]

I totally understand why you need to take a break. Have a wonderful summer. I want to thank you for your videos They really help me. I’m not where I should be but I’m not where I used to be and for that I’m truly grateful . See you in the fall. May God bless you as much as you have blessed others!

[@jennalacaria3924]

Oh Dana Dana Dana where have you and this message been the last 10 years? I don't think I could even count how many times I've tried to reinvent how to manage my home when all I needed to do was restart. And I'm notorious for making a big mess in an effort to declutter an area and then never get back to it when I get pulled away before it's done. It's so encouraging to know it doesn't have to get worse before it gets better. And always knowing where to start (Do the dishes!) gives my brain a much needed break and also gives me a chance to have clarity about where to go next while I'm mindlessly doing the dishes. Thank you for your inspired ways.

[@leilei6576]

I am a chronic “I’ll make piles for each room and be so much more productive & take it there all at once” and then my toddler boys find all the things and redistribute them. 🤦🏼‍♀️ Why don’t I learn!?! 🤷🏼‍♀️

[@laurasell2353]

Thank you for living out what you teach and being a healthy role model for us fellow slobs!!

[@kims914]

Dana I will soooo miss your videos for the summer. Enjoy your family time. My favorite parts are the credits!!!!! So funny! I guess I’ll spend this summer rewatching your old videos. 🙂

[@colemine7008]

Wow, when your babies move out it is rough. I felt that.

[@sarahreinhardt1414]

Enjoy your rest and your summer with Reid!! I felt those momma tears choking back at the end there! I dread the day my babes will fly the coop.

[@stefaniegrant1337]

This was my week. After my son being in a play over the weekend, teens leaving for camp, spending as much time as possible at the pool, I had to stay home today to get all the clean laundry put away. We kept moving it on and off the couch so I just had to get it taken care of. I was surprised after getting all the clothes put away, how the house wasn’t really that bad after getting that done. I can really see how much better things are with sticking to decluttering!

[@melissaclontz1]

Thank you SO MUCH for this video! It came just in the nick of time! My son graduated from HS last week and the day before his graduation party this past weekend he and I got sick and we had to cancel the party! My house is upside down and loaded with so many things for the party that didn’t happen. Now that I’m starting to get my energy back, I really feel overwhelmed. I’m going to start slow…and of course, start with the dishes! Enjoy your summer!!!

[@brianacpratt]

I'm so happy for you - that you take care of yourself by taking summers off! Thanks for the support and encouragement you offer all of us 💛.

[@rachelheath1208]

Looking forward to your return , your podcasts have been inspirational while your on break . Thank you so much for all you share , hope your having a fantastic summer 🤩

[@katiesoderling3596]

This is just what I needed to hear. My life feels like this almost all the time with three little kids. I look around and get overwhelmed by the big projects. I think if I break them down into smaller sections I’ll feel like I have some wins. So glad to hear how you’re prioritizing your family in the summer and resting!

[@vzimmer1951]

I will miss you, and will be glad when you are back. It is the teacher in you!

[@grandmasewhappyhomestead187]

I'm going to miss her but I'm so glad she putting her family first

[@shereemoon]

Thank you! What a BLESSING you are to me! You bring me hope and renewed motivation!

[@natalies5818]

Good luck Reid!! Don't worry about your mom after summer -- us 'slobs' will keep her busy and entertained!! To Dana, you got this!!!

[@kellyvarley946]

Have an amazing summer Dana. You will be missed and if anything I will wash my dishes every day 😊

[@S.F.L]

Breaks are so important. Enjoy! We look forward to seeing you after your break. 💞

[@Claycat4]

Have a great summer!

[@robyngaffel5113]

Always miss you as our holidays and seasons don’t align. But, o go back over your output in my season from last year. Though I am new to your KZbin. enjoy your time and extra these last few days, hug your loved ones tight. And don’t underestimate the emotion in a child moving away from home. No matter how far that move is. No matter how excited you are for their future, it’s impactful.

[@lucycliburn2344]

Thank you for having right priorities! See you later.

[@hollyb5432]

Have a kick a-- summer! (Something I haven't said since high school, but am amused to say now....) 😁

[@nancyharkins6570]

Dana - good for you for taking time off for yourself and your family. This precious time will not come again.

[@marium1866]

Thank you so much for these great tips, as always! Enjoy your family time and some relaxation this summer! We'll be here when you return. It's great that you are prioritizing what matters most - family and time to rejuvenate.🌺

[@rachelseibert7882]

Enjoy every minute you can with your family! God bless!

[@famlyfun747]

Last night I was overwhelmed with my house' I heard your voice,, 'Just do the dishes' Awexome Thanks Nony Dana

[@shadegarden7375]

We will miss you, but totally understand!! Reid, you are a hoot!!

[@kayjohnson5619]

Have a great summer. I am glad you are taking time off for yourself and your family.

[@maria_w311]

Enjoy your summer!

[@babytexan3038]

You understand my brain like I've never understood it before!! 😭 All of your suggestions are SO helpful!

[@dottief6057]

We're gonna miss you but enjoy your time with your family. I loved summer with my kids at home and the loosey goosey schedule! Enjoy it while you can. They are gone in the blink of your eye. 💗

[@MissTiffanyK1]

It continues to surprise me how many aspects of my life are better off using your approach. For instance, my "planning/project brain" had spent a week forming all the little piles of errands and things I need to return or exchange. Yesterday I switched to action and after work I completed one small thing entirely (a UPS drop off), and then I made one stop again today (a return at a store). Instead of spending my time making, moving, and organizing piles, I just started dealing with them piece by piece and it feels so good!

[@colleenwyjad7697]

I just watched your "living with it" for awhile video and then this one and I feel like I've had some kind of therapy session! Your videos are chalked full of encouragement not just by what you say but how you deliver it. Very thankful for the encouragement. The tips and tricks. The advice. And knowing where your priorities lie are such a huge positive example in itself. Thank you for putting your family first above this.. And in doing so showing us all what it means to be balanced and to have healthy boundaries.. Just needed to add this message to the sea of messages you get.. Cause we'll I'm truly grateful. So I'm just letting you know.. There is one more person among the many out there who appreciate your efforts and the time you do invest to create these motivating videos. ❤️ Thank you.

[@moniquefuselier7711]

Enjoy your break!

[@jillbrumbaugh8252]

Enjoy your summer!!!

[@barblydell9800]

Dana, this is an incredibly profound reminder! I’m just facing a major illness with both my husband and my brother. Life feels like an earthquake right now. Your advice pertains to life in general as well as my house. Thanks for the timely great advice!! Enjoy your summer!!

[@pameehanson3866]

I am a caregiver to my husband and that is Loosey Goosey times all year around. It's the little things I do each day that keeps me from feeling overwhelmed. You are not alone and thanks for sharing. This is a great community

[@rosabaltazar1309]

Enjoy your summer will be here when you come back!

[@gailwright9427]

Thank you for all your wonderful advice, Dana. Enjoy your well-deserved summer break xx

[@caro2983]

What a wonderful model you are for self care. Your time is also a container. You have chosen wisely what to put in your time container. Wishing you a rejuvenating summer!

[@grandmaofthree897]

I am working on my closet today! I am trying to be brutal about it. I feel myself slowing down…so I have been listening to you for motivation!

[@angelinacrafts5385]

Enjoy the summer!