Welcome to the NEWSLETTER. Many of you have said they miss having my newsletters, so here goes.

Each newsletter will be filled with info and/or tips that might help us, or anyone really, parents, adult children, grandparents, & friends. Feel free to pass it along.  Everyone can use some organizing…somewhere. We get a calmer, more organized space, get holiday ready, and/or if you do sell someday, you’ll be ready to be ready.

You know how it goes, one thing leads to another. My challenge this month was that we needed a new bed, which led to a new bedroom set (40 years since we’ve purchased bedroom furniture). Oh wait, we need new sheets & blankets to fit the new mattress.  I know!! Then there is that under the bed stuff…ugh, very bad feng shui. So, let’s tart with the easy things first. Bedding…

 Decluttering Tip Extra Sheets and Bedding! 

If you’re working on decluttering your home, here’s something you can do today: take a look at your linen closet! Over the years, it’s easy to accumulate numerous bedding sets, sheets, blankets, and comforters. Do you still need them all? Here’s how to decide what to keep and what to let go:

•           Keep only 2-3 sets of sheets per bed for easy rotation (one on the bed, one in the wash, and one as a backup or seasonal option).
•           Assess the bedding: Are these sheets or blankets still comfortable, in good condition, and used regularly?
•           Ask family members if they want any of the bedding or sheet sets.
•            Donate gently used bedding to local shelters, thrift stores, or charities and pet rescues need the extras to help someone in need.
•            Lastly, repurpose some of them in the garden shed for the frosty nights when you need something to cover your potted plants and/or shrubs.                                                    

Decluttering now will free up space and make future moves more manageable! 

Your comments and gentle ribbing encouraged… I’d like to hear what tips you would give for any of us who have accumulated too much stuff and how you manage it.

Aging in Place: The Choice for Many Seniors

You don’t have to look far to appreciate that the U.S. population of older adults, those at least 65 years old, is increasing at historic rates. In the last decade, the population of older Americans increased by over 15 million, with many baby boomers now entering their 80s.

The majority of those seniors live in their own homes. And while some older adults may prefer the assistance offered by senior living, the vast majority prefer to continue living in their homes for as long as possible—according to the Joint Center for Housing Studies of Harvard University, nearly 90 percent of adults over 65 want to remain in their current homes as they grow older.

Labeled simply “aging in place,” this phenomenon will have a significant impact on the real estate market and how you might work with clients, friends and even family.

The Vast Majority of Older Adults Live in Their Own Homes (Thousands)

Notes: Own home refers to older adults living in a home in which they or a spouse/partner are the household head. Those living with nonrelatives only may reside in their own home or another person's home. Group quarters include locations such as skilled nursing facilities, residential treatment centers, group homes, military barracks and correctional facilities.

Source: JCHS tabulations of U.S. Census Bureau, 2021

American Community Survey 1-Year Estimates.