It’s officially summer. I love the longer days with more chance to get out into the sunshine and soak up that vitamin D.
This is a fun time to look for organizational tasks that take us outside.
· Deck or Patio
Declutter and clean your deck or patio area. Envision how you want to use this space. What do you want this space to look like and how do you want to feel when relaxing or entertaining on the deck or patio? Schedule time to pressure wash the surface and clean the furniture. Do you want to clean or refresh the cushions? If you have planters in this space, take time to re-pot any tired looking plants. To add to the ambiance consider adding lights, a rug, or art.
· Birds
Clean out and restock any birdfeeders. Check the birdhouses and birdbaths.
· Yard Games
Pull out your yard games - badminton, croquet, cornhole, Bocce. Are all the parts there? Are they still games you want to play? Get rid of anything that you will not want to use.
·Water toys
If you have water toys, take time to see that they are still usable. Is last year’s wading pool still in good shape? Are any toys chipped, broken, or no longer wanted? Get rid of unwanted or unused items to make room for any new additions.
· Gardening supplies
Check on your gardening tools and supplies. Are you still using them? Do they need a good cleaning or sharpening? Organize them according to how you use them and store them where they are easy to access and put away.
· Grill
Give your grill a deep cleaning to start the summer grilling season off to a good start. Check out your grilling tools. Are some just hanging around for show and you haven’t used them in years? Pass them on to someone else who might use them. Have some gotten rusty? Give those a toss. Check you inventory of propane tanks, charcoal and lighter, or wood chips to see if you have enough for the first summer cookout. There is nothing worse than trying to start your charcoal fire with damp charcoal that has been stored in a shed all winter.
As you are working on these outdoor organizational tasks, schedule time to just be outside and enjoy your space. Don’t wait for everything to be perfect. Sit on that deck and read a book. Have a friend over for morning coffee or an evening drink. Celebrate as you work through your list of projects!
If you want help or just some accountability in working any organizational plan either outside or inside your home, join Diane Quintana and me on our Clear Space For You clutter support group.
Jonda S. Beattie, Professional Organizer owner of Time Space Organization, and co-owner of Release, Repurpose, Reorganize. She is based in the Metro-Atlanta area. As presenter, award-winning author, as well as a retired special education teacher she uses her listening skills, problem solving skills, knowledge of different learning techniques, ADHD specialty, and paper management skills to help clients tackle the toughest organizational issues. Jonda does hands on organizing and virtual organizing. For more of Jonda’s tips connect with her on Facebook.
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