I have something to show you!

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:: IN THIS VIDEO ::
Simplicity Parenting Book: amzn.to/3NlzMHq
Seed Starting Trays: amzn.to/3HifN92
Grow Lights: amzn.to/429Zvaf
Plastic Tags: amzn.to/3HnivKb
Take Your House Back Course (Just $94 for a few more days!-- regularly $597!) The next All Day Declutter is Saturday, May 6 (replay available!) Full details: cli.re/Take-Your-House-Back-Dawn
:: RECENTLY MENTIONED ::
Tom's KZbin Channel (Rusty Judgment): / @rustyjudgment
Buy the Bundt Cake Book (& Donate) here: cli.re/bundt-cake-recipe-book
Decluttering by Faith Devotional: cli.re/Devotional
:: TIMESTAMPS ::
00:00 Minimalist Frequently Asked Questions
00:53 Do you have a TV?
02:40 What was the hardest part for you?
04:03 Favorite Minimalist Parenting Resource?
06:32 Did you sell things?
12:18 How did you decide where to donate?
14:01 How do you define minimalism?
16:42 How has minimalism impacted relationships?
24:24 Do you have things that aren't minimalist?
26:19 Do you ever want bigger, better, newer?
LOOKING FOR MORE SUPPORT?
We have a few ways that we can come alongside you:
1) PRIVATE DECLUTTERING GROUP:
This takes place in a private Facebook group. Here's what you can expect:
- 5-10 minute videos each weekday with guided decluttering tasks
- monthly themes, weekly challenges
- 1 hour live guided decluttering sessions twice a month for accountability
- encouragement & support from other members
- cost is $15/month
This is ideal if you're looking for more motivation & accountability.
To learn more and to sign up, visit here: cli.re/minimal-mom-private-group
2) DECLUTTER YOUR HOME IN 15 MINUTES A DAY WORKBOOK:
This workbook is designed to walk you through decluttering each area of your home in 15 minute lessons.
- 168 full color pages
- easy to follow lessons designed for limited time & energy
- our key concepts (like inventory, the silent to-do list, the endowment effect & more) are spread throughout the book, too
Ideal for those looking for a self-paced guidebook to declutter their home quickly & efficiently.
The workbooks are $20 (digital or spiral bound)
Shipping: $4 flat rate domestic US
Find more details here: cli.re/declutter-workbook
3) DECLUTTER YOUR HOME IN 15 MINUTES A DAY COURSE:
Declutter Your Home in 15 Minutes a Day course: cli.re/Course
In the Declutter Your Home in 15 Minutes a Day course we go through the workbook, breaking down specific areas of your home in detail to be able to declutter faster and with more confidence. If you want to know specifics (like how many of each thing to keep) this course is for you.
..................................
:: DECLUTTERING PLAYLISTS ::
New to our channel & Minimalism? Start Here :: cli.re/START-HERE
Kitchen Decluttering :: cli.re/Kitchen-Decluttering
Storage Spaces :: cli.re/declutter-storage-spaces
Kids' Toys :: cli.re/toys-playlist
Sentimental Things :: cli.re/Decluttering-Sentiment...
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:: C U R R E N T L Y R E A D I N G ::
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:: M O S T P O P U L A R O N O U R B L O G R I G H T N O W ::
Pumpkin Spice Bundt Cake: cli.re/pumpkin-bundt
Chocolate Chip Cookie Bars: cli.re/choco-chip-cookie-bars
Chocolate Sour Cream Bundt Cake: cli.re/chocolate-bundt
Minimal Mom Frog Planner: cli.re/Free-Planner
Minimalist Meal Planning System: cli.re/meal-planning
#minimalism #familyminimalism #minimalist
:: M O S T P O P U L A R V I D E O S R I G H T N O W ::
57 Things We No Longer Buy: • 57 Things We Don't Buy...
Organized Minimalist HOUSE TOUR: • My Organized Minimalis...
Cook MORE, Clean LESS: • Simplify your Kitchen ...
How to Declutter WITHOUT Making a Mess: • How to Declutter WITHO...
The Silent To-Do List: • The Silent To-Do List ...
*AFFILIATE LINKS! THANK YOU!!!*
..............
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..............
Royalty-free music used with permission from the KZbin Creator Studio, Epidemic Sound and purchased from AudioJungle.net

[@TheMinimalMom]

Get 25% off Blinkist premium and enjoy 2 memberships for the price of 1! Start your 7-day free trial by clicking here: www.blinkist.com/theminimalmom Have a great weekend! - Dawn

[@thisoldnest6963]

The point of minimalism isn’t owning as little as humanly possible. It’s about making room for the things we love and being able to enjoy them. Even throw pillows 😉

[@juliatepe5760]

I like to say, " I'm "simplyfying " to have more time for what we truly enjoy!" Took 3 old cell phones to recycling center that accepts them yesterday. That felt good! Passing on a hat rack we no longer use to someone who can later this week. Good look with the plants friend! I'm just gonna wait till it warms up and push those little seeds in the ground and hope for the best, Lol!

[@jackimanley3056]

I think decluttering is my hobby. I currently have nothing left to declutter, so I've turned my attention to helping my friends! Some of them just needed a little encouragement and then they take off! I love it!

[@lucystrider728]

I know what you mean, you end up with all these empty baskets and bins and you think it would be fun to help someone else get free of their smothering stuff!

[@bodaciousmo]

Same! I got my friends going by taking the Clutterbug quiz then let them know any makeup over 2 years (mascara is 3-6 months!) is trash. No thinking, just tossing. It is a great kick start!

[@gcsmom9153]

Lol.....me too!

[@crybebebunny]

You ladies need to come over my home❣️ Take turns in helping me a Dung Beetle🪲❣️ I have chronic health problems and a level 3 Horder because of the room. You need to take turns because I am stubborn and struggle❣️

[@jackimanley3056]

@@crybebebunny i would if I could 😊

[@rebeccamyers805]

After my husband passed away. It’s been 4 years since he passed. I had four truck loads I sent to Salvation Army. I still have stuff I need to get rid of and I took a load to the resale shop. It’s an ongoing process. I’m a disabled veteran and I’m usually in pain. So it’s been difficult but I’m doing it!!😊❤

[@jinglesh1398]

Your passion on minimalism is contagious!

[@NN-hs3uv]

Why do you use so much plastics? It is so bad for the environment and our health 😢

[@lindamcdermott9980]

I started with my down sizing two years before I moved into my apartment. I was a working single mom to three daughters and one grandson, it expanded to a total of 50 years because of their age differences. When you referred to season of life of the kids, imagine this in the same year and month, one graduated from kindergarten, one from eighth grade, one from high school, the fourth was an infant. Then there were high school and college graduations in the same month…. Everybody got their own cake! When the last one was ready to leave the nest, downsizing moved into high gear. I never looked back. I moved into a sr. apt. seven years ago. Still had too much stuff, and continued to pare it down. There were KZbin videos out there that helped guide and motivate me. That was probably around the time I discovered your channel, you guided me through the refinement stage. Through which I am still traveling. I am mindful of what I buy and bring into my space, and continue to evaluate the things that are here. I read the Art of Swedish Death Cleaning, which motivates me more to consider at 76, how much of the stuff on my shelf do I actually think I will use or need. I’m ready for another purge. I don’t think there is anything I look back and wish I still had. You are at a season of life where you need a place to work, have guests, and home school. That building is a necessity not a luxury. Having it, you can maintain your home, life, give your children experiences that they might never otherwise have. You are doing everything right! I once had a 1/3 acre garden that fed my family for the whole year, I made all my kid’s and my clothes, baked bread every week, ironed clothes and held a full time job. Looking back, I don’t know how I did it, but it is a good memory. You deserve the satisfaction of the seeds, grow lights, cake stands and throw pillows. You are a good mom and a role model for many. Kudos to you.

[@carolinedelosso6429]

How DID you do that? Made your own clothes too? Wow.

[@lindamcdermott9980]

@@carolinedelosso6429 I made my own clothes since I was 11. Then I taught neighbor housewives how to sew, when I was 16 I got a job in the fabric dept of a store. Sewing was natural, inexpensive at the time, college I majored in home Ec, studied clothing, design, textiles & chemistry.

[@anaalves3658]

You are a super woman 💪, that is amazing. I'm super impressed 👍😁.

[@rachaelmasters5623]

I have become obsessed with your channel over the last couple of months! I even caught myself “quoting Dawn” at Target the other day lol. My husband and I have set a goal to pay off our house in the next year, before we both turn 25! Seeing all of the things I wasted money on asI simplify our home has encouraged me not to spend money on all the extras. I would LOVE to see a minimalist/no spend boredom activities video that aren’t hobby shopping!

[@mydogismyheart23]

When I first started decluttering I tried to sell a lot of stuff through Facebook marketplace. I found that people just didn't want to pay much and were very unreliable. I got tired of driving to meet people to gain $25. Then I discovered buy nothing and that has been amazing. Not only do I gift lots of stuff there but I gain a lot too. You can ask for anything on buy nothing, including the gift of services. I've had someone send their husband to install a new light fixture for free. Another came and helped me take down a huge built in storage shelf. Twice I've gotten help with yard work. I can also get things I need vs spending money and have used it during no spend months. Ive also borrowed items when i just needed it temporarily. Because of this, I've had no trouble letting go larger ticket items to my buy nothing group. I no longer worry about the money because I know I'll gain it back when I need things!

[@lisaallen5901]

I like that you are a minimalist without your home looking bland and bare. Your home looks bright and cosy and inviting. It has inspired me to become more minimal, since watching you over the years without losing my personality in my home. Thank you for being on youtube ❤

[@oliviarucker5013]

I agree with this!

[@catchingthewind1]

Agreed!

[@LynsAlteredArts]

That’s the difference between minimalism as in having less stuff and minimalism as a decorating style.

[@bellaluce7088]

16:41 - 22:14 This kind of honest sharing about the psychology of motherhood with a messy house is so destigmatizing and healing. ❤ I appreciate Dawn's authenticity so much! 😀

[@jn4049]

I agree! I needed to hear a few of those sentences.

[@carolc6364]

I love “ No one else has to live in your house.” So true!

[@singerjo5791]

My sister made a snarky remark about how I like to read and look at my blank walls. I don’t have blank walls but I do have a mostly minimalist home. It is peaceful. She is attached to lots of stuff.

[@LynsAlteredArts]

I have heard “it looks like nobody lives here“, “where is all your stuff“, and “it looks like a model home“. I take them all as a compliment.

[@natalieeubank4533]

My 9 yr old last week on a whim decided to take of her paper clutter and I was never so proud to see her able to do things like that on her own and she decluttered her big Barbie house along with the Barbie’s and extra toys as well

[@bobbihofacker2706]

Gardening.. Don't look at it as saving money. Look at as a hobby you enjoy, the relaxation, and knowing how your food has been grown. 🌱🌿 Also, plants need darkness to rest, just like us 🌞

[@emmelia-6068]

Thank you, Bobbi, well said! It's a beautiful hobby and does good for me, my family, and people we can share with... ❤

[@annwade1876]

As you mentioned you feel uneasy about knowing when to water your plants, here's my best tip. Put your finger right down into the soil (don't just feel the surface). If the compost feels dry or nearly dry, then water your plant{s}. If it's damp or wet, don't put more water on them. Plants need air in the soil as well as water. Too much water will drown a plant. Too much is worse than too little. So just think "minimal" water, Minimal Mom. Heartfelt gratitude for all your inspirational tips, and for your cheerful good nature. You are helping me transform my 71 years of cluttered life and it is so freeing. Thank you so much.

[@HannahRainbow88]

My Nanna also taught me to dig an empty flower pot into the ground next to our tomato plants, and to pour the water in there (not on the surface) so they would root lower and stronger too 😊 bonus points if the pots also catch a few slugs that were trying to munch the plants 😂

[@lauriereber8939]

As your seedlings get bigger, you should have a light air moving to promote strength in the stems. A small fan set on low moving over them should be enough. I love your attitude about learning and failing at a new hobby. This is what keeps hobbies fresh and enjoyable. Thank you for all your hard work and for encouraging us along the way.

[@conniesoares157]

What a treat seeing you on Friday again!

[@juliejackman2649]

I got what I thought was a great idea of having some land to build a tiny home community on the west side of my city and put it on our city's website to see what others thought of it. I got very negative feedback..even angry emojis from people and I couldn't understand why. So I googled that question of why people are so angry with me, and the answer was because more is still more to most people and I was "bucking the system." I never even thought of that. I just thought it would be great to keep up on easily and have more time to spend with family, friends or whatever people wanted to do. I also suggested a garden and small patch of grass and a small fenced in yard for each tiny house. I still love that idea and wish people would come around to that way of thinking. 😀.

[@Susan_1952]

Dear Dawn, I finally understood your message when you said to think of all the things in our home as “inventory” that we must keep track of 24/7. That was a real eye opener for me and I thank you. I’m now able to move forward with decluttering by asking myself “have I used this or is it just taking up space?” Another great question is, “would I be able to find it if I needed it?” Chances are NO so out it goes! Little by little it’s coming together … by the way, I’m 70 so I better shake-a-leg😉! P.S. I love watching you (Tom and the kids too) when you post a video because you’re always so encouraging. ❤ Susan in California

[@jilltibbetts3]

You don't need grow lights, you can bury your seedlings higher up the stem when you re-pot them. Garden Answer showed this and it worked well for me (strong stems)!

[@karenhoward8542]

Never owned a TV. But always watch it when I am in a hotel. Am using two free nights to stay over to watch the Coronation ceremony starting at 4 a.m. my time--smile

[@victoriaturnershoemaker3723]

Love your shout-out to Jess (Roots & Refuge) Full circle now- Jess mentions Becky (Acre Homestead) Becky mentions you And now you mention Jess! It’s like my friends are all becoming friends lol

[@lizs7012]

To make it easier to donate your stuff, look for local fundraiser rummage sales. Our local humane society has a huge rummage sale every year to raise money for the shelter. Because my husband and I love animals, we don't think twice about giving away things that are sentimental, or that we spent money on, etc. It's just so satisfying to help the animals!! Look for a charity rummage sale (you may find them online) that you would like to help, then giving away your stuff is easy! Thanks, Dawn, for all the effort you put into showing us that less is better.

[@janiceyoder621]

I hear the phrase 'Why do you have so much stuff?' from my 15 yr daughter who is also a clutter bug. Overwhelmed is the right word to describe what keeps happening in my family. Slowly but surely, we are working on it.

[@AmythefirstA]

I love your point about how decluttering made your family relationships more functional. I've experienced this, and I know many other women have: when I'm frustrated with my husband and children for not helping, but really, our house is so overwhelming and our storage systems so convoluted, that it's nearly impossible for anyone but me to clean it. Simplifying everything makes it possible for our families to know how to help!

[@bonniestearns2965]

Dawn, I have nothing to teach you about decluttering -- I am learning from you on that score. But gardening -- I do have some thoughts. For one, you can keep most seeds from year to year if you protect them from heat or drying out. Keep seeds in their original envelopes and then into a zip-top plastic bag in the refrigerator. I keep one bag for flowers and another for vegetables. There is a fine chart in Mel Bartholomew's book "All New Square Foot Gardening" that shows how long you can expect to save seeds and when are the right times to plant them. His square foot philosophy goes hand in hand with minimalism and I think you'd enjoy it. It would be a great project for each of your children. I would not suggest you purchase seeds from a rack in most stores -- they haven't been stored well and may have been on the rack for months -- drying out. (And always check the date on the envelopes.) It's worth the money to purchase directly from the see company even if it takes a couple of weeks longer. I noticed you planted dozens of cucumber seeds. You'll have more than you can eat! The thing you could start dozens of seeds (spread over several weeks) is LETTUCE. You won't believe how tender home-grown lettuce can be. And carrots (in the ground in early spring.) And of course tomatoes. But tomatoes can be tricky from seed. You could watch them thrive for weeks then they can wither and die from a damping off fungus and you've lost weeks of growing time overnight. I would suggest you buy a few varieties of tomatoes and keep a record of your favorites. Tomatoes and peppers from 2" pots at a nursery are worth the investment. Plant some chives near you kitchen -- great to cut a fistful for a salad or on top of baked potatoes. Once you have them growing they will come up year after year. Learned this when I was in kindergarten when my mom trusted me to cut them! When planting rows of seeds in the garden, lay out string to mark the rows, planting an occasional radish seed. Radishes germinate in just a few days and even after removing the string, you'll easily see your rows and know where to watch for the slower-growing plants. You'll be eating the radishes before they crowd the other plants. Next year you may want to think about a "cold frame" made from scrap wood and an old window to start seeds in a sunny spot outdoors. No need for grow lights. I see you bought your trays from Burpee. Burpee is a wonderful source for gardening help (besides your family and neighbors) The Burpee website is a wealth of information on growing each item. Read reviews from others who have grown the varieties that interest you. They are voices of experience and can save you time and money. Enough! Enjoy your garden and I hope your children do as well.

[@jonelledavenport8701]

Thanks for sharing 🤗

[@emmelia-6068]

This all made me so happy. I love gardening whether it's a "successful" year or not... I always learn something new and it's a wonderful opportunity to practice gratitude. The original SFG book is what got me started back in the mid 80s ❤😊

[@shub9919]

You are the most down to earth and genuine minimalist I know! Thank you for continue to share the message and encourage others in this journey.

[@upnorth316]

Dawn, maybe you've heard this...a quote something along the lines of, "A man who knows himself cannot be defined." (Woman, too, of course.). I feel that way if others are confused about my minimalist journey. The more confident I became in the process, the less I relied on outside opinions. ❤

[@darlenemartin248]

There is nothing like a peaceful home. Minimalism has changed not only my life, but family that visits, especially my grandkids. They have way to much stuff. My son told me today that they have volunteered to get rid of some of their things so they can feel comfortable and at peace. Thank you for teaching me how. Now I can't stop teaching everyone that will listen. Thanks so much Dawn.

[@sarahswitzer4084]

So just today, I tackled the dreaded basement, the black hole. I was inspired by your most recent 5 minutes matters video. Although it took much longer the 5 minutes the starting was all I needed. It's not completely done, but it is so close, and I physically feel lighter. I have watched you for years here as a WI neighbor and have learned so much! Thank you for all the encouragement! Keep on growing, your faith, and those cute little cucs! 🥒

[@FrugalGardenerOntario]

To make free planter labels I cut up plastic that I’m recycling into label sizes and use permanent marker 🪴I’m glad you’re gardening too!

[@HannahRainbow88]

My Nanna taught me to garden, and in the potting shed we would rotate the seed trays every few days to correct for (straighten up) plants leaning towards the light/window side.

[@susanlawson5926]

I’m thrilled!! Two posts in a week!!!! Yay!!! Yay!!!!!

[@kayalford6746]

I think minimalism can be different to everyone. I am an avid TV watcher. But when cleaning I have to have either the tv on or an audio book. I can put on a program I want to watch and clean that room without getting bored. The same with audio books. I use them to get cleaning done.

[@tonyacourtney3816]

I do this when doing laundry. When I’m cleaning, I turn music on. 😊

[@SassySue67]

I suffer from the just in case syndrome, but I’m getting better. Have been clearing out my now defunct sewing room ( just don’t feel like sewing anymore). I’ve been doing five to ten minute clean outs and I’m making progress. Your videos are helping me declutter. I keep visualizing your just in case video with Tom to keep me on track. Most of the stuff hasn’t been used in 6 years so I think I can finally let it go.

[@bodaciousmo]

My sewing hobby had become a "fantasy self" so I found a young friend starting out that was soooo excited for my things. Way to go on the 5-10 min clean outs-- it really is incredible when you look back how much you can get done in small doses 😊

[@cynthiafisher9907]

@Lucysmom Oh man, I need to clean out and organize my sewing room so badly, it’s a mess. I get overwhelmed just thinking about it. The 5-10 minute idea will help me to start in on it, thank you!

[@Julie-rc7wl]

I love that you have lots of throw pillows and cake stands! It makes me happy that they bring you joy!!

[@beataylor641]

Watching you plant the cucumber seeds and be so gentle with them was so relaxing and therapeutic! 😁 Good to see you on a Friday again as a one off.

[@debbiematthews981]

I thought the same thing. I was mesmerised until an ad snapped me out of it 😄

[@phyllisscott2343]

I love Jess from Roots and Refuge, she and Dawn are my best KZbin friends :)

[@lizwilliams8406]

I have found that cucumbers do better straight in the ground. I live in Mn too

[@creativelycountry1617]

Same!

[@beckyrosenowgartman3445]

I love your word " band width". It resonates with me. But my husband who is 77 and not at all computer savvy, looks at me when I say it and says, Huh?😊

[@alishajennings2013]

I am currently decluttering as a coping mechanism. We had a supply line break under our house (kitchen sink) and it ran 3 days before I knew it was broken. I thought the sound was the fridge about to die bc it's 15 years old. The repair man told me it wasn't coming from the fridge and investigated for me and found it was a ton of water spewing everywhere under the house. So our kitchen cabinets and flooring is pulled out and we have fans and dehumidifiers in and under the house. It's a huge inconvenience to say the least. But today I had a septic company come out and do an exploratory dig to diagnose the issue with our septic tank. Turns out the pipe coming out the back is old and filled with dirt so it will need to be replaced. That is 10 thousand dollars I wasn't expecting to spend. I feel like everything is out of my control. But instead of focusing on everything that's going wrong, I'm focusing on the fact that thankfully we have our finances in order and we don't have any debt except 32K on our mortgage and we do have 17k in an emergency fund to cover something like this. It isn't the end of the world but it is a bummer that between the 2 we have to basically drain all of our savings and then start saving up all over again. We wont hit our goal of paying off the mortgage by March 2024 anymore. Anyway to regain some control over things I'm decluttering today. The more I can get rid of the easier it will be to maintain and that will lower some stress so I can handle the stress of not having a kitchen or any savings (sarcastic smile emoji)

[@happyfeetdancewi]

I share your pain!!! Currently decluttering after a lightning strike hit our house and cause a ton of damage and mess. Hugs to you as you sort out the damage and move forward! ❤

[@missushoneybee]

Emergency funds change everything!

[@angelamelum4304]

It’s a good thing I like watching your videos because the first ad at the beginning was over a minute and I couldn’t skip it.

[@marianneperry6924]

It showed up for me about halfway though. I have to confess I didn't completely believe you, surely there was a Skip Ad button, but not on this minute-long ad. KZbin must really want us to purchase the ad-free option.

[@marianneperry6924]

Big Family Homestead today discovered there's a new button that turns on automatically that allowed an ad to be run in the middle of their live. 😯

[@aliciacalderoni1865]

You are such a breath of fresh air in this world we live in! I started implementing a minimalist lifestyle in 2020 while stuck at home and it has been the most lifechanging decision I have ever made. It is often discouraging because my husband isn't on board yet with minimizing his things, but just the other day he said he preferred the minimal vintage decor in our house and it made me so happy! Thank you for sharing such encouraging content :)

[@cfw900]

The only thing I watch on TV is The Chosen via DVD.

[@jaimepiano1985]

I watch that one and All Creatures Great and Small is my other one I’ve enjoyed!

[@emmyfalb859]

I have raised a big garden for 20 years but never had success with starting my own seeds. They always were leggy like yours. I recently heard that you need to transplant them deeper into deeper containers to cover more of the long stem when they get leggy. I tried it this week. They immediately started getting all beautiful and leafy within a day or two of transplanting and quit shooting up so fast! So excited!!! I actually just started them in individual Dixie cups and transplanted them into styrofoam cups. 😋 Great job with your gardening! Also, you’ve changed and are still changing my life with your minimalist influence! I’m about 6 months into decluttering and am addicted! Thank you, Dawn! 🥰

[@kjohnsonshelton0923]

My philosophy is to hold on to what brings me joy and/ or makes my life easier. Clutter does not bring me joy nor does it make my life easier. What sparks joy and makes life easier is very individualized.

[@brennakschuler]

Planting tips: ☺️ Your grow lights need to be only 2 inches above your plants and use them on the both the seedlings and the plants that have not emerged yet. If you are using a heat mat turn it off when the plants emerge they dont need it anymore. This should all help prevent legginess. Also Zinnias do well planted directly in the ground. This is how we prefer to grow them here in Kansas. If you have extra seeds try directly sowing them in the ground along with your indoor started plants and see what works best for you.

[@randomharts]

I don’t know what Dawn’s growing season is like but in Wyoming, I have to start zinnias indoors or I will not get any…yes, they don’t like transplanting and growing indoors but at a 90 day growing season, that’s the only way for me to have zinnias😉

[@katieallen3927]

​@@randomhartsDawn is in zone 3 and most things need to be started by seed indoors or the growing season is too short.

[@michelleprice5945]

One huge difference i noticed after decluttering is it now only takes an hour and a half to clean our house! Of course I pick up every day as well. Always do the dishes before bed!

[@lisamorris4232]

Goodwill uses 84% of it's profits for community programs and job-training. I think that's pretty awesome for a big organization!

[@racheldyer9250]

I just have to say how much this video has touched me; especially the part about parenting, being overwhelmed, and the messages the home and clutter send us. I watch a lot of these videos, have truly taken on decluttering as a hobby and inspiration. I have always been very passionate about organization, so decluttering has made so much sense to me. I am not a minimalist, but I certainly am a minimizer. I am king of stuck now, where parts of the house are still beyond overwhelming for me, as I have not been able to declutter them since its other family members things. I just pray that they see how impactful the decluttered areas are and eventually choose to tackle their areas as well. Thank you so much for all of your inspiration and support. Though we have never met, I truly feel blessed and honored to have you as a friend.

[@annettevanderklippe1653]

So fun that you are gardening! It's my favourite hobby, my second favorite is decluttering. I would plant spinach, lettuce and kale outdoors right now, they love the cold and can handle frost. You'll get a bigger harvest. The rule here in S Ontario is to plant on Victoria Day weekend which is one week before Memorial Day. So our timing is really similar! But those cold weather vegetables go to seed awfully quick when it gets hot.

[@midsouthhomestead7527]

I love that you are planting at the same time videoing. Now that I have been getting rid of STUFF for 8 years. Planting and watch things grow is so much more satisfying than STUFF.

[@annesorsa7038]

Your videos are so inspiring. I've been a stay at home mom for my two boys and soon three. The stuff at home really gets my spirit down and your videos has been encouraging to really start my decluttering journey. With yours, Cassies and Dianas youtube channels on the background "body doubeling" and decluttering and cleaning with me. Big help. Thank you! 🙏🤗

[@user-oy8kk4hh4t]

Dawn, I can't imagine you not being a good Mom ! Any child would be incredibly blessed to have you for their mother ❣️

[@bernadette6211]

I use wooden lollipop sticks and permanent marker. I like the fact that like just wear away when I'm finished, I found the plastic was just more rubbisb in the garden. Love your videos, thankyou ❤

[@simmiedavissimmiesings8185]

Great idea!

[@MerrowMeghan]

That's so funny! I used the wooden sticks last year and they turned into compost before I was ready. I'm using plastic this year because I will be able to re-use them next couple of years

[@rosywilson3076]

I just cut up yoghurt pots to make labels - recycling! 😊

[@MerrowMeghan]

@@rosywilson3076 Yes I saw someone do that. I am using the plastic from empty butter containers

[@Wootane01]

I’ve found that the more I simplified, the more I wanted to simplify! As a stay at home mom of two under two and pregnant with my third baby (so in June it’ll be three under two) and I have HG, having found your channel last year just changed my life so much in the ease of how our days go! ❤

[@bernadettecostantino9156]

This year, take your favorite tomato, and let the seeds fall onto a paper towel. They will dry. That’s your next year seeds. After they dry put them in a little airtight container. My mother did this every year. They are seeds inside your pepper. Etc..

[@sciencemama6801]

??? HELP! How do you start minimalizing kids' LIFESTYLE when you have TEENAGERS? I envy so much the life you get to give your kids. I've been working for months on decluttering to simplify our stuff which is going pretty well and it's making cleanup easier and cooking happening a little bit more even though I'm disabled & it's very difficult. But I also wish I could go back to stuff I did more when kids were littler- less TV/ computers, having them read before bedtime every night (they never read anything now), they never play with any toys. "No Screen Days" or even hours are a thing of the past. Now that they are 15 and 18 I feel like it's "too late" for me to try to backtrack and enforce them changing their entire lifestyle and habits (and mine! I too am screen-addicted b/c I can't do all the physically demanding hobbies I had pre-disability). But I can tell this lifestyle is a bad influence & big stressor for my 15-year-old especially. I also know he is going to FIGHT me HARD if I try to do anything, and with my disability it's super hard to try to tackle anything like that, my mental health and energy brreak down and I "have to" give up pretty fast to survive. I keep trying to tell myself now that I certainly still had big life changes during MY teen years, it should be perfecgly possible and I shouldn't give up. But I don't know what to do, how to do it, or if I can handle it. (Single parent too btw, apartment life, no yard or other outside area to speak of, we do have some "creative" toys from when they were younger and lots of books none of us have read! Too poor to pay for cool vacations or other activities.) Thank you so much if anyone actually read this whole thing, and thanks even more if you have any response for me. Have a great day!

[@lyannecb8499]

I have to approach things differently now my sons are in their twenties than when they were younger and I could set down the rules. But, they still live in my house, so they do listen when I ask them to do things, rather than telling them (they don't always do them, but they do generally listen!) My house is still cluttered up, and that doesn't help. But I've made a big push this year on dealing with that, starting with the kitchen-diner. And we've gone back to meals together at the table, and the boys have been the ones to put phones down. We take it in turns to choose the music through Spotify and will look things up on our phones to decide a disagreement, share a news article by reading it out loud, etc.

[@sciencemama6801]

@@lyannecb8499 What do you mean your boys have been the ones to put their phones down? They've independently been using them less? Do you mean just during meal times? I do ask and they do usually do chores, if that's what you mean by you asking them to do stuff. Do you also ask them to do non-screen things, or invite them to? Thanks for responding, can use all the help I can get!

[@lyannecb8499]

@@sciencemama6801 More during meal times, but the better communication has had the effect of reminding us all that we like to spend time with one another. So younger son and I spend time sitting on the sofa talking and Elder Son talks to me when we walk the dog. The conversations get deeper too - or we carry on topics from a couple of days ago. It's baby steps there, just as when we first become parents. They need to know we still love them unconditionally - we have expectations of course! But our love is more than that.

[@robinsonsontheroll5482]

Dawn, you have been a source of inspiration on what my life can be if I declutter. I know you have had people judge you on wearing too much black or the throw pillows. I don’t know why people feel the need to say things like that. You do you! You are succeeding in life! I’m so happy for you, and hope to be there someday (probably when my kids have moved out!). ❤

[@hollyweaver7292]

I don't know how anyone could see Jessica's videos and not come away convinced they could garden. I'm not gardening right now, but I'm still watching her just to see how beautiful the farm is.

[@laury-pf5qc]

Thank you Dawn for another video this week. Am having a tough few days and your videos really help lift my spirits. Thanks from Australia 🇦🇺

[@jujube2407]

Is it worse to throw it AWAY or give to good will... goodwill may not be the BEST... but my gunked up house is not good either... when you know better you can do better! Get it out by any means necessary... but then once you got the bulk OUT... then worry about making better choices, and better donations when it's reasonable and slowed down!!! ❤

[@lawaincooley6788]

One term you teach is "real estate" regarding the precious space in your home and making sure that it isn't wasted on un-used stuff.

[@rachelcowan8879]

Started following you last week and am hooked! This week I have slowly started working through each room of our house while I watch your KZbin videos 😅 We have 2 sets of identical twin girls! With another girl in-between. So many toys, clothes, and shoes!! I just finished going through all their clothes WITH them and paired down to 8 bottoms, 8 tops, and 7 summer church dresses. This afternoon…it’s my turn…GULP!! We live in Michigan and I started seedlings three weeks ago. I bought the same-looking grow light and have all our seedlings in the basement until this darn weather cooperates!!

[@TheMinimalMom]

This is so fun to read Rachel! WELCOME! I'm so glad we get to spend time together!!!

[@rachelcowan8879]

Thinking back, I think I started watching you when we were getting ready to move from our home of 8 years in South Dakota where we worked on one of the Native American Reservation to here in Grand Rapids, Michigan (in 2020 of all years…🤦‍♀️🤦‍♀️). We had to leave all but our dining room table and the older girls’ triple bunk bed my husband made and that was it for furniture. We lived 2 1/2 hours from any donation place and since we moved in April, the time when we could have did a yard sale or whatever, we were on lockdown. Our neighbor got the word out and people just came by and took everything we left for free and then he took the rest to the dump. That was so hard - but free-ing! Now it’s been 3 years and though I’ve kept my kitchen down (super small kitchen, one small counter) the rest of the house, um, yah, got a bit away from us. 😬. I had had enough last week when I re-found your channel!! You are so sweet and supportive and super practical and helpful!! (We fostered for two years and had custody of a boy for 6 years also - so hard in many ways but we made sure to do it for them and not for ourselves). We’ve thought about fostering again here but I’m homeschooling all five of our kids now and though we have 1/4 acre in the suburbs, most of our yard is garden and we’re going to be getting chickens soon so I’m not sure about getting back into it yet. Whew! I wrote wayyy too much again. Thanks so much for your reply and your time!

[@ellen8996]

I'm near GR too. The 80 degree days followed by days of snow, then 60 then freeze. Have you discovered the Home School Building. Great homeschooling resources there.

[@rachelcowan8879]

Hi! 👋. I haven’t been to it myself yet but I’ve heard a lot of great things about it!

[@sandradowd6732]

In my area there are stuff you can post for free, and most the time it's picked up within a day.

[@tlr1604]

I love the put it in a bag or box-put in the basement if you have not used in1 year-donate-no guilt. I love that we are working on if you don't love it, or use it, then donate so someone else can get used out of the item-this is how it was growing up. We each had 4 clothing outfits, there were 5 of us so we did laundry enough that these few outfits were not uncommon. Some had 2 outfits, so there were not many more things or money growing up. Who would have thought it was a simpler time. We rec. 1 $20 Xmas gift and 1 $20 bday gift-that was it for the year. We each got to eat out 1 time for our bday-all this was just a simpler time. We played outside, we did not have DVD, VCR, or cable, we played board games if the weather was bad, and colored, and then outside when the weather was nice. Even the richer kids did not have a ton, they might have 2 Barbies and a few outfits which we loved. We had 1 Sunday outfit and possibly a new one for easter or passed down from a sibling or someone in town.

[@ladykatietx]

I like the idea of using those zippy things that comforters come in for storage 👍🏻

[@Jeannette.akaJnett]

The trays and the lights look cool. I don't have a clue. I did do tomatoes for a couple of years but I had to do the self-watering setup. In Michigan , between the growing time (like where you are) and the fact that I was the only one who ate them it just didn't seem worthwhile. Now that hubby has passed and my sister is here, she would help me eat it but I found the critters in my yard ate so much of it that for now I'll just be go to the local farmer's market and support them. In our neighborhood, they set up each Friday and I can reap their rewards.

[@evapmama-blue77]

I don’t watch ‘TV’ per say since 15 years - I use my iPad to watch my KZbin channels and a movie that may interest me. When my daughter visits on a weekend- we binge watch a favorite show on a larger screen - other than that I don’t use the large screen as it uses more energy I have to pay for - I wish I had your input when I raised my daughter- now I see her struggle not knowing how to deal with her stuff - I try guide and help her and mention KZbin names that help me 😊I offer to help her declutter - so far she has not taken me up on it - maybe she is waiting to see how much further I get with my own - always enjoy listening to any of your videos while tackling a box or corner- thank you I just boxed it up and dropped it straight at Goodwill- lots of kitchen and home decor and craft stuff etc

[@jessicayerden9043]

I love that you referred to Simplicity Parenting- such a great book and important concepts for our time! My big thing with decluttering for kids is this- my almost 8 daughter thinks everything is special. Collects little items nonstop. Makes things out of clay to use. She’s super creative, and I love and encourage that, but we have a small home and are running out of room to store all the tiny, special things. She also gets overwhelmed easy and I know from experience that she does better with a super minimal amount of stuff. How do I help her find the balance and understand that “if everything is special, then nothing is special”?

[@tamiwigginton7137]

Really loved this one!!!

[@Leebramy]

My 5yo asked what I was listening to when I was cleaning and wanted to take a look…. and now she is fascinated because of all the gardening/planting you’re doing in the background!

[@AshleyRJones8]

Tip from a former plant nursery worker...Sharpie will fade on those plastic tags, it's better to use pencil or a wax pencil. Have fun in your garden!

[@pattym2402]

You did good with the placement of the light, it should be about 4-6 inches from the top of the plants as they grow plant. You will have to up pot quite a few of those starts before they go out to the garden. When they get their second set of leaves you can fertilize them at 1/4 strength. Don't forget to do the hardening off process, Plants outside 1 hour first day 2 hours next, three hour etc. for a week at least then overnight then into the garden. Water them well the night before you plan on planting them in the garden, preferably on a cloudy day. Have fun with the process. Thanks for sharing. Enjoy our weekend.

[@d.zyned2thrive584]

The point of minimalism isn't being a minimalist, the point is getting stuff out of the way so you can enjoy life. Therefore what's clutter for one person enhances the life of another.

[@nancylutsch6018]

Getting ready to move after 41 years. Lots of stuff won't be making the cut.

[@cmeo7642]

Trust me. You're not missing out on anything TV and it's great that your children aren't either!

[@elizabethsokol2545]

My Goodwill participates in textile recycling. I find that so helpful in letting go of worn things. Since I found a couple of deals there, I had an easier time of donating a skirt I never wore for someone else to enjoy.

[@laurabotts4064]

The definition of minimalism is different from one person to another. It's a very personal journey as to what you need, want and enjoy in your home and your life. People shouldn't judge others for their decisions. We are all individuals !

[@LauraRodriguez-rn4um]

It’s refreshing to hear that this is doable and reasonable, and the status quo isn’t automatically ok for everyone.

[@randomharts]

You can usually reuse plastic plant tags by using high % isopropyl alcohol to remove the writing and then wash and dry for next years use😉 Reusing to minimize waste👍🏻

[@terrybouck5192]

Always glad to watch you and toms too! You’ve got it together!

[@ShoshanahDeborah]

I loved this! So calming! Thank you 🥰🥰🥰

[@dawnbrinker5732]

Thank you Dawn, you are so inspiring!

[@katysuemarfil2148]

Also love Jess! Thank you for the input!!!

[@kennethbailey9853]

Love the new set up!🙂

[@joannaseymour7662]

You always have the best advice! ❤

[@kristyleavitt8007]

I just love your videos, Dawn! Thank you for making them! 🥰

[@ashleyallen1858]

Love you!!!

[@thebudgetbee9694]

I'm enjoying gardening with you and this q and a! Thx!

[@tiffanysibbett7]

I have loved your videos for years!!! 🤩💜

[@kfetter9046]

Dawn, you have the gift of being a great communicator! BTW, the grow lights should be about an inch or two above the seedlings. If you keep the lights too high, the plants will keep reaching. You can the lights higher up as the plants get taller.

[@leithawalling9519]

What I understand what you’ve done has been to simplify your life, your family’s life so that you have less stress, more time to do priorities etc… but you can still choose to have a few things that don’t fall into minimalism such as your throw pillows or cake plates. I don’t feel one has to be a purist to make minimalism work for you. You are so encouraging! I love watching you and Tom. TV doesn’t have too many shows that I’d give up time to watch. But love some KZbinrs keeping me company while I cook or clean…

[@jennifergilbertson1144]

One of your best videos to date!❤

[@karolinasundkvist5762]

You are amazing! I am so inspired both when it comes to decluttering and growing plants!

[@LMAS3]

You can run a fan on them too to help them be stronger when they get outside 😊

[@dianemamrus1588]

Sooooo glad I found you on u-tube!!!!!

[@enigmasky1680]

Thank you for touching on this again. People have been conditioned into thinking that we are going to destroy this planet that our father created for us and that’s not going to happen. They are told by society that it is them destroying it and only they can fix it and we can do neither. I love that you hit on these things without being super preachy or rude.

[@allikat1352]

The Goodwill performs a service. They take things that would end up in a landfill and they find a use for it. If they are your only choice, then don't feel bad about using them.

[@cindywiemers9149]

Just love visiting with you Dawn! Thanks for this video! Happy weekend, love ya, Cindy💗🌻🥒🌽🫑🫛🍅🥦

[@33snowgal]

I love your gardening habit.