New year, fresh start! 2022

It’s been a busy couple of weeks with Christmas and the start of the New Year but I love a fresh new start, don’t you? And “Fresh” is my word for 2022 (see my recent YouTube video at the end of this post to find out why)! So here’s a very quick round-up of how I keep our home clean, organized and hygge (cosy). And myself fresh and motivated. Every single day!

When all is said and done, for me a good day starts with…a simple Good Morning Routine! You can see mine below. I have the same routine every day of the week, all year round. The order/timing change daily, but I make sure to get all of the points done. Because it supports me, makes for less work and keeps me feeling light, bright and positive!

My daily Good Morning Routine

If you’re not sure what to put into your Routine, how to adjust your Routines whether you are working from home, are working shifts, have changed circumstances (added a new baby to the mix, are newly retired), I have lots of advice in my Flylady Refresher Course YouTube series…

My Flylady Refresher Course series on YouTube

I also find that assigning one day each week (a daily focus) for things like errand shopping and paperwork really stops the overwhelm. Have a think and see what schedule works best for you. You may want to combine grocery shopping with tidying up your car. How about doing your weekly clean on a Saturday morning with all the family helping, then enjoying some fun activity or favourite snack together afterwards? I have ideas in my Flylady Refresher Course videos which explain the Weekly Plan, how I use mine and how it can benefit you (and your family)!

And what about cleaning and decluttering your home? Monday is Weekly Home Blessing Hour in Flylady Land (a short upkeep clean of the high traffic areas of your home) but choose any day of the week that suits you and your family! Get everyone in the family to help. Kids can help from an early age and can clean their own rooms with a little supervision and a lot of encouragement. I usually spread my Weekly Upkeep Clean over the week, but you can do it all at once (a brilliant way to get in a mini workout) if you prefer. If you are having a really hectic week or your Mojo has taken a vacation then set a timer (on your phone or, better still, an old-fashioned kitchen timer) and spend just 5 minutes on each task. You’ll see a huge difference in a short time! Setting a timer gets us started but also stops us from going overboard or getting “stuck” on one task. I prefer not to use the timer on my telephone because I can often get sidetracked by checking notifications, etc. I love working along to music or listening to a podcast or audiobook on my wireless headphones. Switch on some LED candles, put some uplifting oils in your diffuser. Remember to add hygge to your daily Routines!

I have a whole library of “clean with me” videos on YouTube – here’s one where you can join me in doing my Weekly Upkeep Clean…it took less than 25 minutes!

Need more help or someone to hold you hand? I offer private “Single Session” coaching for those wanting a more tailored in-depth approach. More details, pricing and booking information right here. I also do a Giveaway on my YouTube channel each month, where you can win a free coaching session with me. Simply leave a comment on the Giveaway video saying “yes, please” to enter! Good luck!

Private coaching with Diane in Denmark

And here’s my recent YouTube video, explaining why I chose Fresh as my word for 2022!

Wishing you a fantastic new week and New Year! Keep putting one foot in front of the other. We are moving forward, one day and one simple routine at a time!

LLAP!

Hugs

Diane

FLYLADY – SELF-CARE BY ZONE (plus bingo card)!

Thanks to everyone who has contributed to these Zone inspiration ideas over the past months! Choose a few things to add to your bingo card (or write them down on a piece of paper, make a list on your smartphone), and enjoy some self-care this week! We are taking care of us and taking care of our homes. Keep scrolling down, there is something for everyone!

SELF-CARE/PAMPER/SELF-PRESERVATION

ZONE 1 – ENTRY, HALL, DINING ROOM

  • cut a bloom from the garden/buy a single flower for the hallway
  • add a flower pot to your entryway/postbox area
  • “redecorate” the area with items borrowed from other places in the house (vase, candlestick, lamp)
  • add a blanket for the cooler evenings outside on the porch/veranda
  • use your “best” china and glasses from the dining room – every day is a special occasion!
  • use one of your “best” glasses (wine, crystal) and enjoy a glass of chilled water, add some fresh mint or a slice of lemon
  • set the dining table with flowers/candles, turn on some background music and enjoy lunch or dinner – alone/with family/online with friends
  • hang a crystal in the dining room window or entryway
  • make paper flowers to display on the dining room table
  • make a wreath or welcome sign for your front door
  • make a small “tableau” in the hall/entryway or dining room (some candles, a flower, a photoframe, something which makes you smile)
  • diffuse your favourite scent or light a candle while doing your zone work
  • listen to your favourite music/podcast while doing your zone work
  • once you’ve completed some zone work (decluttering or cleaning), sit outside/in your favourite chair and read for fifteen minutes
  • sit outside on your porch/veranda and read or enjoy a cup of chilled water or hot coffee
  • sit outside on your porch/veranda and admire your efforts!

ZONE 2 – KITCHEN

  • Homemade face mask, lip or hand scrub, bath salts/bombs, homemade foot cream. Use herbs or flowers from your garden or pantry items (honey, sugar exfoliating scrub, olive oil egg yolk hair treatment, vanilla bath salts).
  • Keep a tube of hand cream by the sink.
  • Additional hand-care with some lotion or a mini-manicure.Make one day this week a “detox” day, with juicing and relaxation.
  • Search online for a new recipe to try, or reread a favourite cookbook.
  • Write down your favourite family recipe and make a copy for your children.
  • Have a go at that recipe you saved and never got round to.
  • Try making a new healthy snack, biscuit or cake.
  • Prepare a ‘new’ or ‘special’ snack to enjoy later on with a cup of tea!
  • Tidy and/or discard old recipes.
  • Tweak your diet, research healthier eating ideas and add one to your menu plan this week.
  • Add some fresh mint or a slice of lemon to your water.
  • Make homemade chocolates, truffles or fudge (for Zone 4 stash 😊).
  • Sit outside with your morning tea or coffee and listen to the birds.
  • Candlelight dinner with your best china, alone or with your significant other, on the balcony or in your garden.
  • Put together a pamper snack basket for the week, something special each day to enjoy.
  • Add your favourite meal to this week’s menu plan.
  • Sit at the dinner table, add candles, background music, serviettes, eat outside weather-permitting.
  • Enjoy the light in the kitchen for reading or doing a crossword.
  • Try a new type of tea or coffee or savour a cup of your favourite brew. Use the one you have been saving “for a special occasion”.
  • Indulge yourself and enjoy your favourite dessert, or a new ice-cream flavour.
  • Use one of your china teacups/saucers that you only keep for guests, or drink water/juice from a crystal wine glass.
  • Put together different salads, trying new combinations of veggies and fruits you’ve never tried, use a variety of lettuces and greens.
  • Add something which makes you smile while you’re cooking/doing the dishes: a bloom from the garden, a pot plant, a candle, a photo frame.
  • Make paper flowers to put on your windowsill or table.
  • Take a couple of pieces of the “good china” you save for special occasions out and have lunch or a snack, a cup of tea. Take a photo and invite a friend to do the same for a “separate but together” teatime, or eat “together” via FaceTime or Skype.
  • Hang a beautiful crystal in the window to make sparkles and rainbows.
  • Attach a perspex bird feeder to the kitchen window.

ZONE 3 – BATHROOM PLUS ONE OTHER ROOM

  • Diffuse some essential oils, candle.
  • Try a soothing hydrating face mask (oats, natural yoghurt, honey) or a gorgeous body scrub (sugar, olive oil, orange essential oil). Use what you have in the kitchen. The scrub is also really good for gardeners hands if you add a little liquid soap as well.
  • Condition your hair and let it dry in the sun. Deep condition hair (steam/protein treatment).
  • Put a fresh flower or plant in the bathroom.
  • Have a bubble bath or pamper shower. Use bubble bath or a few drops of a luxurious oil. Play some music in the background, light a candle, drink a glass of your favourite tipple.
  • Keep some hand lotion by the sink.
  • Have a “mini spa day”: facial, mask and hands, enjoy your favourite drink.
  • Epsom salts (ginger and clay) soak for pamper.
  • A foot bath (or electric foot spa) and foot cream, finish by putting on a pair of fluffy socks and relax.
  • Read a magazine or chapter of a book. Read an e-book from the library.
  • Do some colouring (online or printed colouring pages).
  • Pedicure and manicure , try out some nail art.
  • Listen to some new music while you are getting ready for the day. Add new music to your pamper playlist.
  • Use a lip exfoliator to get rid of dry skin, apply a nice lip balm to make them really soft ready for summer.
  • Depilation.
  • Body self-massage with lotion, feet and shoulders. Apply lotion to knees and elbows for some extra care. Head massage.
  • Take time to sit and “just be”.
  • Write in your journal or read your prayer journal
  • Keep a small manicure kit and some essential oils handy and use them when having a bubble bath or pamper shower. The essential oils can be calming or energizing.
  • Before showering, place a drop or two (not too much, especially if one suffers with respiratory ailments) of Eucalyptus essential oil on the floor or wall of the
  • shower – the room will smell like a spa.
  • Put coconut oil around the fingernails & back of hands.
  • “I keep a solid rectangle bin that both my feet will fit in under my bathroom sink.  I have it filled with some Epsom salt, 2 cans of beans, a foot scrubber, and a towel.  I pull it out and fill with hot water , some good smelling soap, and some Epsom salt.  I soak my feet for 10 – 15 minutes and then scrub them.  I then pat them dry and roll the cans under my feet for a good massage.”
  • “I love the idea that every day is special. I used to save everything until it would go bad… now I use my wonderful oils on my face and neck before bed. I also love burning lavender incense at night to relax.”
  • Rotate my body gel, lotion, and body spray sets to a new or seasonal scent (eg. change from musk to citrus for spring and coconut for summer). 

ZONE 4 – MASTER BEDROOM/CLOSET

  • tidy out a drawer in your night stand, adding pretty lining paper to make a comfort drawer for all things pertaining to sleep and relaxation eg chocolate/violet creams, hand cream, night rescue remedy, herbal sleeping tablets, notepad and pen, gratitude journal, eye mask, massage oil, lavender sleep balm, etc
  • use a guided meditation, open the window, place an incense stick on the shelf and just be
  • say/listen to positive affirmations before going to bed/while you are getting ready in the morning
  • try a new sleep diffuser blend/spray, nighttime body lotion or light a candle when getting ready before bed,  or while getting ready in the morning
  • a foot pamper with socks for the night for extra hydration
  • wash your eye mask or try a weighted one
  • use gourmet handmade earth-friendly soaps and oils
  • wear a piece of sentimental jewellery or an item which you only wear on special occasions…every day is the special occasion!
  • make a cover for a clothes hanger adding a brooch that you love but may not wear as a way to still enjoy it
  • use a perfume/lotion which you have been keeping for a special occasion…every day is the special occasion!
  • play with the items in your wardrobe and make new outfit combinations and wear them this week
  • once you’ve completed some zone work (decluttering or cleaning), sit on the bed/chair and read for fifteen minutes
  • make sure you are getting enough sleep, start your evening routine a little earlier
  • switch off your phone and read a magazine or a couple of chapters of a book before you sleep
  • put a fresh flower or plant on your night table or dresser
  • “redecorate” the room with items borrowed from other places in the house (vase, candlestick, throw pillows, soft rug, lamp)
  • apply hand/foot lotion in the morning or evening
  • enjoy your favourite drink/coffee in bed in the morning
  • read a magazine or chapter of a book. Read an e-book from the library.
  • listen to some new music while you are getting ready for the day. Add new music to your pamper playlist.
  • body self-massage with lotion, feet and shoulders. Apply lotion to knees and elbows for some extra care. Head massage.
  • take time to sit and “just be”.
  • take time to sit and enjoy your clean, orderly bedroom!
  • use a basket to keep your pyjamas, slippers, hand cream, magazine, spectacles and other items together
  • write in your journal or read your prayer journal
  • spritz the bedding with linen spray or essential oils before you make the bed in the morning and enjoy the scent/a relaxing sleep at night
  • keep hand, foot and lip cream/balm in your bedside table and apply them as a bedtime ritual
  • play “white noise” or ocean sounds to promote sleep, or check out Binaural Beats for Deep Sleep
  • keep a tiny fan or water spray on your nightstand for hot flashes/humid weather
  • keep a small manicure kit and some essential oils (calming or energizing) by your bed handy and use them when you have 5 minutes during your day, or before bed.
  • “I love the idea that every day is special. I used to save everything until it would go bad… now I use my wonderful oils on my face and neck before bed. I also love burning lavender incense at night to relax.”
  • change your body gel, lotion, and body spray sets to a new or seasonal scent (eg. change from musk to citrus for spring and coconut for summer). 

ZONE 5 – LIVING ROOM

  • watch an episode of your favourite tv show, or half an hour of your favourite movie
  • watch a concert video while you are doing your zone work and sing along!
  • watch a themed movie (summer, Christmas, etc)
  • add a summer weight blanket for the cooler evenings on the sofa
  • bring the fan out for the hot days and wipe the blade with aromatherapy oil of your choice (lemon, lavender…) and let the fan move the scent around the room
  • “I watch a show or movie my family wouldn’t care to watch , usually Hallmark type things ”
  • search online for new book ideas, order books from the library
  • ask a friend for movie/tv series/book recommendations
  • use a guided meditation, open the window, place an incense stick on the coffe table and just be
  • a foot pamper, mini-pedicure or foot massage, paint your toenails
  • “I put all my pamper snacks in one 3-liter glsss jar with a tight lid.  Looks nicer than having several bags open and clipped. When I ran out, I noticed that I felt the lack of not having something in the house. Having the pretty snacks on display makes me feel abundance and I can just take one piece or just look at it and feel really satisfied.”
  • once you’ve completed some zone work (decluttering or cleaning), sit on the sofa/in your favourite chair and read for fifteen minutes
  • put a fresh flower or plant on the coffee table or sidetable
  • “redecorate” the room with items borrowed from other places in the house (vase, candlestick, throw pillows, soft rug, lamp)
  • read a magazine or chapter of a book. Read an e-book from the library.
  • have a dance party in the living room!
  • take time to sit and “just be”.
  • take time to sit and enjoy your clean, cosy livingroom!
  • gather your favourite items in a pamper basket (eyemask, slippers, hand cream, magazine, spectacles, small manicure kit and some essential oils (calming or energizing)

And if you’d like help with cleaning and decluttering in the Flylady Zones, I am here to guide you through!

💡 ZONE 1 IDEAS: ERRAND DAY, SELF-CARE, GARDEN

Woo hoo, thanks again for all the brilliant ideas you have sent in for FLYLADY ZONE 1 (entry, hall, dining room ) Errand Day, self-care and gardening! I will add to the list as more ideas come in. Keep scrolling down, there is a lot of inspiration here!

ERRAND DAY OR THINGS TO REPLACE/BUY

  • fresh plants or flowers for the hall, porch or dining room
  • candles
  • lightbulbs
  • cleaning suppies
  • entry mat

And here’s a nice idea for Errand Day! “Errand day pampering for me usually includes a coffee and my favorite podcast or audiobook playing in the car as I go place to place. Simple but special.”

This is my “self-preservation” bingo card. I pick a couple of ideas from the lists below and it makes me more deliberate about “taking care of me” during the week! You can click the photo, save and print or copy paste into your own document. Or if you’d like to customise, here’s a link to Canva (though you need a paid subscription to edit)
https://www.canva.com/design/DAD8DjpSh0U/8vcD9PcTJpbAad46yREGmw/view?utm_content=DAD8DjpSh0U&utm_campaign=designshare&utm_medium=link&utm_source=sharebutton&mode=preview

SELF-CARE/PAMPER/SELF-PRESERVATION

  • cut a bloom from the garden/buy a single flower for the hallway
  • add a flower pot to your entryway/postbox area
  • “redecorate” the area with items borrowed from other places in the house (vase, candlestick, lamp)
  • add a blanket for the cooler evenings outside on the porch/veranda
  • use your “best” china and glasses from the dining room – every day is a special occasion!
  • use one of your “best” glasses (wine, crystal) and enjoy a glass of chilled water, add some fresh mint or a slice of lemon
  • set the dining table with flowers/candles, turn on some background music and enjoy lunch or dinner – alone/with family/online with friends
  • hang a crystal in the dining room window or entryway
  • make paper flowers to display on the dining room table
  • make a wreath or welcome sign for your front door
  • make a small “tableau” in the hall/entryway or dining room (some candles, a flower, a photoframe, something which makes you smile)
  • diffuse your favourite scent or light a candle while doing your zone work
  • listen to your favourite music/podcast while doing your zone work
  • once you’ve completed some zone work (decluttering or cleaning), sit outside/in your favourite chair and read for fifteen minutes
  • sit outside on your porch/veranda and read or enjoy a cup of chilled water or hot coffee
  • sit outside on your porch/veranda and admire your efforts!

GARDEN/BALCONY/PATIO/PORCH

  • take a “step back” and look at your porch/entryway – what would a visitor notice?
  • clean and organize your deck/patio/porch
  • declutter dead plants, remove weeds from plant pots, etc
  • sweep the paths
  • sweep the pavement
  • prune any overhanging branches
  • sweep the garage
  • create a garden basket to live by the front door
  • create a herb pot to live by the front door
  • wash the front steps
  • wipe down the front door (repair/paint any scratches, etc)
  • remove weeds from the garden paths
  • dust off porch/veranda furniture
  • change the wreath/flower decoration/welcome sign

And if you’d like help with cleaning and decluttering in the Flylady Zones, I am here to guide you through!

PRINTABLES – BATHROOM (Zone 3) CLEANING/DECLUTTER LIST

Here’s my cleaning/declutter list for the bathroom! 🎉 Once again, in order to save on printing ink (said the canny Scot…), I typed my lists in black ink and printed them on coloured paper. If you don’t have a printer/don’t want to print, you could take a screenshot of the list and keep it on your phone. I’ve based my lists on my own bathroom and things to declutter in this area. Remember to adapt – make these lists work for you! You can also find full detailed cleaning lists for zone 3 on the Flylady website (click here). Flylady Zone 3 is the bathroom plus one other room of your choice (more information about that here). Simply cut and paste what you need into your own blank document. If you are someone who thrives on lists, you may also want to make a list for your guest bedroom/laundry room/office/garden shed, etc. Just make sure that you are getting off your “bahookie” (backside) and cleaning things, and not getting bogged down in making perfect lists! LOL!

I printed my cleaning list and declutter list and put them back to back in a plastic sheet. Ready to cross off the tasks as I go! During the week I keep the list in my cleaning caddy. That way I can use any spare minutes I have to do one of the tasks. No more marathon cleaning sessions…do you hear me?! LOL! The aim is not to cross everything off the list this week but to keep moving forward in this zone and get something (anything!) done.

I created my templates using Canva. You can use my template for Zone 3, CLICK HERE. Or you can easily make your own. Here are some ideas to get you started, or use the Flylady lists for inspiration! Simply copy/paste on to your own blank document.

CLEAN

Scan the room, put things away
Dust ceiling/corners
Wipe skirting boards
Dust flat surfaces/window sills
Wipe door handles/light switches/
fingerprints or marks on walls
Shine windows, mirrors
Detailed vacuum session
Mop
Wash bathrug
Wipe down shower/bath/sink (inside and out)
Straighten cabinets
Empty/wash rubbish bin
Clean fan extractor
Clean shower drain cover
Dust/water plants
Wash brushes/combs
Rotate seasonal items/candles

RESTOCK

Medicine, first aid supplies
Toothpaste, toothbrush heads
Soap, shampoo, conditioner
Toilet roll, cleaning supplies
Masks, hand sanitizer
Deodorant, Hygiene products, shaving items

DECLUTTER

Empty bottles
Raggedy towels/facecloths
(donate or cut up and use as rags)
Medicine, first aid supplies
Makeup and toiletries
Bubble bath/shower gel
Hair products and accessories

PROJECTS

Clean grout/reapply
Touch up paint on “dings”, scuff marks

Would you like some ideas for pampering, gardening and errand day in this zone? See this blogpost for inspiration! https://dianedenmark.com/2020/05/13/zone-3-ideas-errand-day-self-care-garden/

And if you would like some company while you clean or declutter, I am always reading with my cleaning caddy and my pom poms to cheer you on!

Let’s clean and declutter in the Flylady Zones!

Have fun!

LLAP!

May the Danish hygge be with you!

Diane

💡 PRINTABLES – KITCHEN (ZONE 2) CLEANING/DECLUTTER LIST

Woo hoo, I’m ready with my cleaning/declutter list for Flylady zone 2, the kitchen! 🎉 Once again, in order to save on printing ink (said the canny Scot…), I typed my lists in black ink and printed them on coloured paper. If you don’t have a printer/don’t want to print, save/take a screenshot of the list and keep it on your phone. I’ve based my lists on my own kitchen and things to declutter in this area. Remember to adapt – make these lists work for you!



I printed my cleaning list and declutter list and put them back to back in a plastic sheet. Ready to cross off the tasks as I go! During the week I keep the list in my cleaning caddy. That way I can use any spare minutes I have to do one of the tasks. No more marathon cleaning sessions…do you hear me?! LOL! The aim is not to cross everything off the list this week but to keep moving forward in this zone and get something (anything!) done.




Here are some ideas to get you started! Simply copy/paste on to your own blank document.

CLEAN
Scan the room, put things away
Descale kettle/coffeepot/dishwasher
Dust ceiling/corners
Dust or wipe skirting boards
Dust flat surfaces/window sills
Wipe kitchen table/legs/chair/legs 
Wipe door handles/light switches/
fingerprints or marks on walls
Shine windows, glass door, mirrors
Detailed vacuum session (underneath/back fridge)
Mop
Wipe down cabinets/handles
Wipe/clean refrigerator/one shelf or drawer
Underneath sink/rubbish/recycling
Wipe down microwave
Wash cutlery holder
Tidy drawers/cupboards
Wipe around stove top, oven knobs, and oven door
Wash pillow covers


DECLUTTER
Fridge
Freezer
Crockery
Kitchen utensils
Bowls, pots and pans
Baking paper/plastic bags/elastic band drawer
Tupperware
Water bottles/lunch boxes/thermos
Baking supplies
Tinned goods/pulses


PROJECTS
Sand and oil countertops/chopping boards


Would you like some ideas for pampering, gardening and errand day in this zone? See this blogpost for inspiration! https://www.dianedenmark.com/2020/05/zone-2-inspirationerrands-self-care.html

Have fun!
LLAP! May the Danish hygge be with you!
Diane

💡 FLYLADY ZONE 1 CLEANING/DECLUTTER LIST (PRINTABLES)

Woo hoo, I’m ready with my cleaning/declutter list for Flylady zone 1, the hall, porch/entryway to your home and dining room! This time, in order to save on printing ink (said the canny Scot…), I’ve printed out my lists in black ink and put coloured paper in the printer. If you don’t have a printer/don’t want to print, save/take a screenshot of the list and keep it on your phone. I’ve based my lists on my own home (we don’t have a porch but we do have steps leading up to the house) and things to declutter in the zone. Remember to adapt – make these lists work for you!

I printed my cleaning list and declutter list and put them back to back in a plastic sheet. Ready to cross off the tasks as I go! During the week I keep the list in my cleaning caddy. That way I can use any spare minutes I have to do one of the tasks. No more marathon cleaning sessions…do you hear me?! LOL! The aim is not to cross everything off the list this week but to keep moving forward in this zone and get something (anything!) done.

 

1

2

I created my templates using Canva. You can use my template for Zone 1, click here. Or you can easily make your own. Here are some ideas to get you started! Simply copy/paste on to your own blank document.
 
CLEAN
Scan the room/porch, put things away
Dust ceiling/corners
Dust or wipe skirting boards
Dust flat surfaces/window sills
Dust dining table, chairs
Wipe door handles/light switches/
fingerprints or marks on walls
Shine windows, glass doors, mirrors
Shine or dust lamps
Detailed vacuum session
Check wood burning stove/fireplace
Vacuum or shake rugs outside
Dust tops/underneath bookcases
Dust main light fittings
Straighten the hall cupboard
Water/dust plants
Wipe down the front door
Sweep the porch/entrance to house
Change over the decorations/floral decorations
 
DECLUTTER
Hall cupboard
(shoes, coats, gloves,
seasonal items, shopping bags)
China, Glassware
Cutlery
Table accessories
Table linens
Wines/spirits
Books
Reference books
Music/piano
Candlesticks/bits n’ bobs
Cushion covers/rugs
 
Have fun!
LLAP! May the Danish hygge be with you!
Diane

💡 ZONE 5 IDEAS: ERRAND DAY, SELF-CARE, GARDEN

Woo hoo, thanks again for all the brilliant ideas you have sent in for FLYLADY ZONE 5 (living room) Errand Day, self-care and gardening! I will add to the list as more ideas come in. Keep scrolling down, there is a lot of inspiration!


ERRAND DAY OR THINGS TO REPLACE/BUY
  • Candles
  • Firewood/firestarters
  • Lightbulbs
  • Cushion covers/rugs
  • Plants/flowers
Here’s my “self-preservation” bingo card. I pick a couple of ideas from the lists below and it makes me more deliberate about “taking care of me” during the week! You can click the photo, save and print. Or if you’d like to customise, here’s a link
SELF-CARE/PAMPER/SELF-PRESERVATION
  • watch an episode of your favourite tv show, or half an hour of your favourite movie
  • watch a concert video while you are doing your zone work and sing along!
  • watch a themed movie (summer, Christmas, etc)
  • add a summer weight blanket for the cooler evenings on the sofa
  • bring the fan out for the hot days and wipe the blade with aromatherapy oil of your choice (lemon, lavender…) and let the fan move the scent around the room
  • “I watch a show or movie my family wouldn’t care to watch , usually Hallmark type things 😂”
  • search online for new book ideas, order books from the library
  • ask a friend for movie/tv series/book recommendations
  • use a guided meditation, open the window, place an incense stick on the coffe table and just be
  • a foot pamper, mini-pedicure or foot massage, paint your toenails
  • “I put all my pamper snacks in one 3-liter glsss jar with a tight lid.  Looks nicer than having several bags open and clipped. When I ran out, I noticed that I felt the lack of not having something in the house. Having the pretty snacks on display makes me feel abundance and I can just take one piece or just look at it and feel really satisfied.”
  • once you’ve completed some zone work (decluttering or cleaning), sit on the sofa/in your favourite chair and read for fifteen minutes
  • put a fresh flower or plant on the coffee table or sidetable
  • “redecorate” the room with items borrowed from other places in the house (vase, candlestick, throw pillows, soft rug, lamp)
  • read a magazine or chapter of a book. Read an e-book from the library.
  • have a dance party in the living room!
  • take time to sit and “just be”.
  • take time to sit and enjoy your clean, cosy livingroom!
  • gather your favourite items in a pamper basket (eyemask, slippers, hand cream, magazine, spectacles, small manicure kit and some essential oils (calming or energizing))
GARDEN/BALCONY/PATIO/PORCH
  • clean/organize your deck/patio/porch
  • declutter the garden shed/garage, one shelf or box at a time
  • declutter tools/flower pots (offer them to a neighbour/friend)
  • create a summer garden basket to live by the back door
  • create a summer herb pot to live by the back door
  • gather together a summer blanket, pashmina, sun lotion, bug spray, pack of cards,sunglasses, sun hats etc in a tote or basket
  • wrap solar twinkle lights around the trunk of a tree
  • hang bunting up around your lounging space
  • empty some glow sticks into a mason jar for some evening glow
  • plant up summer pots
  • keep bird baths filled
  • sweep out the shed
  • sweep out the garage
  • check the car/bike lights and tyres
  • sweep paths
  • deadhead flowers in the beds
  • cut lawn edges of beds

💡 PRINTABLES – ZONE 5 CLEANING/DECLUTTER LIST

Woo hoo, I’m ready with my cleaning/declutter list for Flylady zone 5, the living room! This time, in order to save on printing ink (said the canny Scot…), I’ve printed out my lists in black ink and put coloured paper in the printer. If you don’t have a printer/don’t want to print, save/take a screenshot of the list and keep it on your phone. I’ve based my lists on my living room and things to declutter in the zone. Remember to adapt – make these lists work for you!

I printed my cleaning list and declutter list and put them back to back in a plastic sheet. Ready to cross off the tasks as I go! During the week I keep the list in my cleaning caddy. That way I can use any spare minutes I have to do one of the tasks. No more marathon cleaning sessions…do you hear me?! LOL! The aim is not to cross everything off the list this week but to keep moving forward in this zone and get something (anything!) done.

And here are some ideas to get you started! Simply copy/paste on to your own blank document.

CLEAN
Scan the room, put things away
Dust ceiling/corners
Dust or wipe skirting boards
Dust flat surfaces/window sills
Dust tables/legs, Pledge the coffee table
Wipe door handles/light switches/
fingerprints or marks on walls
Shine windows, glass doors, mirrors
Shine or dust lamps
Detailed vacuum session
Vacuum sofa/chairs, flip sofa foam
Dust underneath/behind the sofa
Check wood burning stove/fireplace
Wash cushion covers/blankets
Vacuum or shake rugs outside
Dust tops/underneath bookcases
Dust main light fittings
Change over the decorations/floral decorations
DECLUTTER
Pamper basket
Library/book/magazine basket
Books
Reference books
Games/toys
DVDs
Music/piano
Candlesticks/bits n’ bobs
Table linens
Cushion covers/rugs
Sewing basket
Have fun!
LLAP! May the Danish hygge be with you!
Diane

💡 ZONE 4 IDEAS: ERRAND DAY, SELF-CARE, GARDEN

Thank
you once again for all your brilliant ideas! Here are FLYLADY ZONE 4 (master bedroom) ideas for Errand Day, self-care and gardening. I will add to the list as more ideas come in. Keep scrolling down, so much inspiration here!

ERRAND
DAY OR THINGS TO REPLACE/BUY
  • Pyjamas/nightwear/underwear/hosiery
  • Slippers
  • Bedding
Here’s my “self-preservation” bingo card. I pick a couple of ideas from the list and it makes me more deliberate about “taking care of me” during the week! You can click the photo, save and print. Or if you’d like to customise, here’s a link
SELF-CARE/PAMPER/SELF-PRESERVATION
  • tidy out a drawer in your night stand, adding pretty lining paper to make a comfort drawer for all things pertaining to sleep and relaxation eg chocolate/violet creams, hand cream, night rescue remedy, herbal sleeping tablets, notepad and pen, gratitude journal, eye mask, massage oil, lavender sleep balm, etc
  • use a guided meditation, open the window, place an incense stick on the shelf and just be
  • say/listen to positive affirmations before going to bed/while you are getting ready in the morning
  • try a new sleep diffuser blend/spray, nighttime body lotion or light a candle when getting ready before bed,  or while getting ready in the morning
  • a foot pamper with socks for the night for extra hydration
  • wash your eye mask or try a weighted one
  • use gourmet handmade earth-friendly soaps and oils
  • wear a piece of sentimental jewellery or an item which you only wear on special occasions…every day is the special occasion!
  • make a cover for a clothes hanger adding a brooch that you love but may not wear as a way to still enjoy it
  • use a perfume/lotion which you have been keeping for a special occasion…every day is the special occasion!
  • play with the items in your wardrobe and make new outfit combinations and wear them this week
  • once you’ve completed some zone work (decluttering or cleaning), sit on the bed/chair and read for fifteen minutes
  • make sure you are getting enough sleep, start your evening routine a little earlier
  • switch off your phone and read a magazine or a couple of chapters of a book before you sleep
  • put a fresh flower or plant on your night table or dresser
  • “redecorate” the room with items borrowed from other places in the house (vase, candlestick, throw pillows, soft rug, lamp)
  • apply hand/foot lotion in the morning or evening
  • enjoy your favourite drink/coffee in bed in the morning
  • read a magazine or chapter of a book. Read an e-book from the library.
  • listen
    to some new music while you are getting ready for the day. Add new music to
    your pamper playlist.
  • body self-massage with lotion, feet and shoulders. Apply lotion to knees and elbows
    for some extra care. Head massage.
  • take time to sit and “just be”.
  • take time to sit and enjoy your clean, orderly bedroom!
  • use a basket to keep your pyjamas, slippers, hand cream, magazine, spectacles and other items together
  • write in your journal or read your prayer journal
  • spritz the bedding with linen spray or essential oils before you make the bed in the morning and enjoy the scent/a relaxing sleep at night
  • keep hand, foot and lip cream/balm in your bedside table and apply them as a bedtime ritual
  • play “white noise” or ocean sounds to promote sleep, or check out Binaural Beats for Deep Sleep
  • keep a tiny fan or water spray on your nightstand for hot flashes/humid weather
  • keep a small manicure kit and some essential oils (calming or energizing) by your bed handy and use them when you have 5 minutes during your day, or before bed.
  • “I love the idea that every day is special. I used to save everything until it
    would go bad… now I use my wonderful oils on my face and neck before bed. I
    also love burning lavender incense at night to relax.”
  • change your body gel, lotion, and body spray sets to a new or seasonal scent (eg. change
    from musk to citrus for spring and coconut for summer).
GARDEN/BALCONY/PATIO/PORCH
  • edge the borders of the lawn (I use a trimmer or weed burner)
  • remove weeds from flower beds
  • deadhead flowers in the beds
  • remove weeds from the vegetable plots
  • stake floppy plants in flower beds
  • feed the bulbs that are finished
  • cut lawn edges of beds
  • sow some annual seeds to go into the gaps in the beds
  • sow bi-annual seeds in trays to put out in early autumn
  • sweep paths
  • remember to put your tools “to bed” when you have finished using them
  • put up a hammock or swing chair for a relaxing moment in the garden

💡 PRINTABLES – ZONE 4 CLEANING/DECLUTTER LIST

Here are my cleaning and decluttering lists for Flylady Zone 4!

Adapt to your home! You can use my Canva template, CLICK HERE. Or simply copy/paste my ideas below to your own blank document. Here’s some inspiration…

CLEAN

Scan the room

Fold and put away aired clothes

Dust ceilings and skirting boards

Dust flat surfaces/window sills

Shine windows, large mirror, small mirror, painting

Shine bedside lamps/standard lamp

Detailed Hoover session, hoover under bed

Check bedside tables for clutter, rotate books

Wipe fingerprints from walls & light switches

Clean make-up brushes/eyelash curlers, hairbrushes

Rotate makeup

Dust main light fitting

Flip mattress

Dust underneath bed frame

Dust or wash ornaments/knickknacks

Straighten chests of drawers/wardrobe

Wipe fingerprints from walls & light switches

Vacuum rug/area rugs

DECLUTTER

Makeup/hair products/nail varnish

Underwear and socks

Trousers

Sports clothes/swimming gear

Pyjamas

Jumpers

Tops

Blouses

Dresses/skirts/jumpsuits

Jackets

Belts

Necklaces

Earrings

Bracelets/Brooches

Handbags

Coats and jackets

Scarves, gloves, hats

Shoes, sandals, boots

Travel bags/beach bags/seasonal

And if you want more inspiration for working by Flyady Zone, check out my ideas for gardening and self-care in Zone 4! CLICK HERE

💡PRINTABLES! ZONE 3 IDEAS: ERRAND DAY, SELF-CARE, GARDEN

Thank
you once again for all your brilliant ideas! Here are the inspiration lists for FLYLADY ZONE 3
(bathroom plus one other room) with ideas for Errand Day, self-care and gardening. I will add to the list as more ideas come in! 

ERRAND
DAY

  • Soap,
    shampoo, conditioner
  • Toothpaste, toothbrush heads
  • Toilet paper
  • First-aid
    supplies
  • Medicine,
    vitamins and minerals
  • Baby
    supplies, nappies/diapers, lotion
  • Hygiene
    products, shaving items
  • Cleaning supplies

Here’s my “self-preservation” bingo card for this week. You can click the photo, save and print. Or if you’d like to customise, here’s a link

SELF-CARE/PAMPER/SELF-PRESERVATION

  • Diffuse some essential oils, candle.
  • Try a soothing hydrating face mask (oats, natural yoghurt, honey) or a gorgeous body scrub (sugar, olive oil, orange essential oil). Use what you have in the kitchen. The scrub is also really good for gardeners hands if you add a little liquid soap as well.
  • Condition your hair and let it dry in the sun. Deep condition hair (steam/protein treatment).
  • Put a fresh flower or plant in the bathroom.
  • Have a bubble bath or pamper shower. Use bubble bath or a few drops of a luxurious oil. Play some music in the background, light a candle, drink a glass of your favourite tipple.
  • Keep some hand lotion by the sink.
  • Have a “mini spa day”: facial, mask and hands, enjoy your favourite drink.
  • Epsom salts (ginger and clay) soak for pamper.
  • A foot bath (or electric foot spa) and foot cream, finish by putting on a pair of fluffy socks and relax.
  • Read a magazine or chapter of a book. Read an e-book from the library.
  • Do some colouring (online or printed colouring pages).
  • Pedicure and manicure , try out some nail art.
  • Listen to some new music while you are getting ready for the day. Add new music to your pamper playlist.
  • Use a lip exfoliator to get rid of dry skin, apply a nice lip balm to make them really soft ready for summer.
  • Depilation.
  • Body self-massage with lotion, feet and shoulders. Apply lotion to knees and elbows for some extra care. Head massage.
  • Take time to sit and “just be”.
  • Write in your journal or read your prayer journal
  • Keep a small manicure kit and some essential oils handy and use them when having a bubble bath or pamper shower. The essential oils can be calming or energizing.
  • Before showering, place a drop or two (not too much, especially if one suffers with respiratory ailments) of Eucalyptus essential oil on the floor or wall of the
  • shower – the room will smell like a spa.
  • Put coconut oil around the fingernails & back of hands.
  • “I keep a solid rectangle bin that both my feet will fit in under my bathroom sink.  I have it filled with some Epsom salt, 2 cans of beans, a foot scrubber, and a towel.  I pull it out and fill with hot water , some good smelling soap, and some Epsom salt.  I soak my feet for 10 – 15 minutes and then scrub them.  I then pat them dry and roll the cans under my feet for a good massage.”
  • “I love the idea that every day is special. I used to save everything until it would go bad… now I use my wonderful oils on my face and neck before bed. I also love burning lavender incense at night to relax.”
  • Rotate my body gel, lotion, and body spray sets to a new or seasonal scent (eg. change from musk to citrus for spring and coconut for summer). 

GARDEN/BALCONY/PATIO/PORCH

  • Wash
    your gardening gloves.
  • Clean
    the lawnmower, garden tools, lanterns, patio set.
  • Set
    up hoses for vegetable garden.
  • Check/clean
    water features, hoses, attachments, water toys.
  • Clean
    out ponds or fish ponds.
  • Consider
    getting a water butt/rainwater collector.
  • Water
    grass and hanging baskets.
  • Wash
    the garden cushions/rugs.
  • Sweep
    the patio.
  • Put
    up a swing or hammock. Or make yourself a comfy “reading spot”.
  • Take
    a walk in your neighbourhood admiring all the flowers in the front yards.
  • Clean
    the bird feeder and fill up.
  • Clean
    the bird bath and fill with fresh water.
  • Clean
    outside windows or shed windows/greenhouse windows.
  • Research
    gardening by the lunar calendar.
  • Pressure
    washing or clean the pavement/sidewalks, patio, porch or deck.

💡 ZONE 2 INSPIRATION…ERRANDS, SELF-CARE, GARDEN!

FLYLADY ZONE 2, THE KITCHEN

Thank you for all your wonderful suggestions on YouTube and Instagram for things we can focus on in Flylady zone 2 (the kitchen) for shopping, self-care and working in the garden! 😄 I shall keep adding to the list as more ideas come in…

Here’s my “self-preservation” bingo card for this week. You can click the photo, save and print. Or if you’d like to customise, here’s a link

https://www.canva.com/design/DAD8DjpSh0U/8vcD9PcTJpbAad46yREGmw/view?utm_content=DAD8DjpSh0U&utm_campaign=designshare&utm_medium=link&utm_source=sharebutton&mode=preview



ERRANDS – SHOPPING LIST

  • Washing up liquid
  • Rubber gloves
  • Dishwasher detergent/tabs
  • Rinse aid
  • Dishwasher salt
  • Coffee/tea
  • Baking parchment/wrap
  • Kitchen roll
  • Cleaning liquid

SELF-CARE, PAMPER

  • Homemade face mask, lip or hand scrub, bath salts/bombs, homemade foot cream. Use herbs or flowers from your garden or pantry items (honey, sugar exfoliating scrub, olive oil egg yolk hair treatment, vanilla bath salts).
  • Keep a tube of hand cream by the sink.
  • Additional hand-care with some lotion or a mini-manicure.Make one day this week a “detox” day, with juicing and relaxation.
  • Search online for a new recipe to try, or reread a favourite cookbook.
  • Write down your favourite family recipe and make a copy for your children.
  • Have a go at that recipe you saved and never got round to.
  • Try making a new healthy snack, biscuit or cake.
  • Prepare a ‘new’ or ‘special’ snack to enjoy later on with a cup of tea!
  • Tidy and/or discard old recipes.
  • Tweak your diet, research healthier eating ideas and add one to your menu plan this week.
  • Add some fresh mint or a slice of lemon to your water.
  • Make homemade chocolates, truffles or fudge (for Zone 4 stash 😊).
  • Sit outside with your morning tea or coffee and listen to the birds.
  • Candlelight dinner with your best china, alone or with your significant other, on the balcony or in your garden.
  • Put together a pamper snack basket for the week, something special each day to enjoy.
  • Add your favourite meal to this week’s menu plan.
  • Sit at the dinner table, add candles, background music, serviettes, eat outside weather-permitting.
  • Enjoy the light in the kitchen for reading or doing a crossword.
  • Try a new type of tea or coffee or savour a cup of your favourite brew. Use the one you have been saving “for a special occasion”.
  • Indulge yourself and enjoy your favourite dessert, or a new ice-cream flavour.
  • Use one of your china teacups/saucers that you only keep for guests, or drink water/juice from a crystal wine glass.
  • Put together different salads, trying new combinations of veggies and fruits you’ve never tried, use a variety of lettuces and greens.
  • Add something which makes you smile while you’re cooking/doing the dishes: a bloom from the garden, a pot plant, a candle, a photo frame.
  • Make paper flowers to put on your windowsill or table.
  • Take a couple of pieces of the “good china” you save for special occasions out and have lunch or a snack, a cup of tea. Take a photo and invite a friend to do the same for a “separate but together” teatime, or eat “together” via FaceTime or Skype.
  • Hang a beautiful crystal in the window to make sparkles and rainbows.
  • Attach a perspex bird feeder to the kitchen window. You can see our one here…

GARDEN/YARD

  • Sow vegetable or herb seeds, plant up tender vegetables in a greenhouse, sow cress or micro seeds for quick fresh greens.
  • Watch the birds at the feeder.
  • Read outside in the garden, make a reading spot for yourself.
  • Use a special cuticle and hand cream after you’ve been working outside.
  • Sit outside and “just be”.
  • Rub your hands in the thyme, lavender, basil or mint bush.
  • Prepare the area for the vegetable garden.
  • Clean and check outside furniture.
  • Clean/prepare the barbecue and implements. Gas/charcoal.
  • Wipe down the parasol.
  • Take care of fruit trees or bushes. Swap excess garden produce with friends or neighbours.
  • Light a small bonfire.
  • Toast marshmallows.
  • Have a go at growing herbs in containers or recycled tin cans or plastic pot.
  • Water plants, set up a rainwater collector.

MY EASY RECIPES AND CRAFTS PLAYLIST!

💡 PRINTABLES My caddy, cleaning checklist (plus kids)! Liberation of Denmark candle t…

Here’s my Weekly Home Blessing cheat sheet!

Here’s a link to make your own checklist!

https://www.canva.com/design/DAD7NV2f2lU/bhWlY_Kdb1LZRFeWQUWP8w/view?utm_content=DAD7NV2f2lU&utm_campaign=designshare&utm_medium=link&utm_source=sharebutton&mode=preview

And another, to make your own kids’ checklist!

https://www.canva.com/design/DAD7SaiUu7o/q3Lpsmbi90JRVxbPS3k2kw/view?utm_content=DAD7SaiUu7o&utm_campaign=designshare&utm_medium=link&utm_source=sharebutton&mode=preview

💡 PRINTABLES – MY WEEKLY UPKEEP CLEAN CHECKLIST

Here’s my checklist. You can save the photo and print. Or use the link below to customise it to your own needs! 

Make your own version here…

https://www.canva.com/design/DAD7NV2f2lU/bhWlY_Kdb1LZRFeWQUWP8w/view?utm_content=DAD7NV2f2lU&utm_campaign=designshare&utm_medium=link&utm_source=sharebutton&mode=preview

The next one is for kids, 5 minutes on each task.

Adapt it to your needs here!

https://www.canva.com/design/DAD7SaiUu7o/q3Lpsmbi90JRVxbPS3k2kw/view?utm_content=DAD7SaiUu7o&utm_campaign=designshare&utm_medium=link&utm_source=sharebutton&mode=preview