Welcome back to our bi-weekly news about cultivating simplicity with simple touches of clean living, sourdough bread, and natural skin care. Links to 3rd party web sites may be provided on this Site. When you click on an affiliate link, I may receive a small commission. See FAQS for more information.
Thank you for reading this post, don't forget to subscribe!Hello there,
As September arrives and the rhythms of a new season begin, I find myself drawn to one simple idea: making room for what matters most. The big question is what are you ready to release this fall and what are we ready to embrace?
Cultivating Simplicity
“The ability to simplify means to eliminate the unnecessary so that the necessary may speak.” — Hans Hofmann
We live in a world that constantly encourages us to do more, buy more, achieve more, and carry more. Before long, our homes, schedules, minds, and hearts can begin to feel crowded. We may find ourselves stretched thin, overwhelmed, or disconnected from the things that truly bring us peace and purpose.
Cultivating Simplicity-What Are You Ready to Release this Fall?
That’s why this month, we’re embracing the theme of Cultivating Simplicity.
Simplicity isn’t about deprivation or perfection. It’s about creating space. It’s choosing what deserves our time, energy, and attention—and gently releasing what doesn’t.
As we begin this journey together, I invite you to pause and reflect with these journal prompts:
- What feels cluttered in your life right now?
- What has become overwhelming or unnecessary?
- What are you holding onto that may be keeping you from moving forward with greater freedom and peace?
These questions take us to a quieter place where we can genuinely reflect on what matters most. Making this a regular routine puts us more in touch and clarifies our deepest wishes and hopes and gives us a clearer direction.
Here are my favorite journals I use to organize, dream, and gain inspiration: INSIDE THEN OUT Better Everyday Journal – Guided Daily Journal with 365 Pre-Dated Prompts for Self-Love, Reflection, Growth, Gratitude, Wellness, and Healing, Vegan Leather Journal Gift Set with Pen 192 Pages, Flower, and Hardcover Spiral Notebook journal with Removable Dividers Tabs, 300 Pages Leather 5 Subject Notebook.
Cultivating Simplicity-What Are You Ready to Release this Fall?
Perhaps it’s an unrealistic expectation, an overcommitted schedule, a habit that no longer serves you, or even physical clutter that’s been weighing on your mind.
Whatever it is, remember that letting go is not a loss. Often, it’s the first step toward making room for something better.
This season, may we choose less rush, less noise, and less pressure—and more clarity, intention, and joy.
I’d love to hear from you. Reply to this email and share one thing you’re letting go of this season. Simply email me at he***@*******************ps.com or drop a comment.
Here’s to a simpler, more meaningful September.
Warmly, Rebecca
“Simplicity is making the journey of this life with just baggage enough.” — Charles Dudley Warner
As a small gift, I’ve included a Cultivating Simplicity & Decluttering Checklist and Pantry Purging Tips List to help you create more space and peace this month. Pick one item, start small, and remember that lasting change often begins with a single step.
Just a Touch of Organization-
To help you get started, I’ve created a simple checklist you can print and work through this month. Don’t feel pressured to tackle it all at once—choose one small area and begin there.
Cultivating Simplicity: Decluttering Checklist:
☐ Clear one kitchen drawer
☐ Donate or discard 10 items you no longer use
☐ Unsubscribe from 5 unwanted emails
☐ Organize your pantry or refrigerator
☐ Clear off a countertop or flat surface
☐ Sort through your purse, bag, or wallet
☐ Declutter your nightstand
☐ Remove unworn clothing from your closet
☐ Donate duplicate household items
☐ Organize digital files on your computer
☐ Delete unused apps from your phone
☐ Unfollow social media accounts that don’t inspire or serve you
☐ Review your commitments and identify one thing to say “no” to
☐ Create one evening each week with no scheduled obligations
☐ Write down three priorities for this season
☐ Spend 10 minutes in quiet reflection or prayer
☐ Make a list of what you’re ready to release
☐ Celebrate one small step toward simplicity
Purging the Pantry for the Holidays:
As the holidays approach, one of the best ways to prepare your home is by purging and organizing the pantry. Over time, pantry shelves can become crowded with expired ingredients, half-used packages, and forgotten specialty items purchased for recipes long since abandoned. Taking a few hours to sort through everything not only creates more space but also helps you avoid unnecessary grocery purchases during the busy holiday season. Here are a few pictures of my pantry after purging. And as you can see, you don’t need any fancy equipment to get it done. I am linking some of my cost-effective organization tools below to get you started:
My favorite storage finds are Chef’s Path Pantry Storage Containers, Joy Jolt Glass Storage Containers, and Moforoco White 9-Tier Over the Door Pantry Organizer, Pantry Organization and Storage, Metal Hanging Spice Rack.
Also take a look at these fabulous finds Prep & Savour Daleah Stackable Airtight Sealed food storage containers -24 pieces, Ivy Bronx 24pc Glass Storage Containers with Lids, 12 Food Storage Containers with 12 Airtight Lids, and Ebern Designs 3-Piece Airtight Kitchen Canister Set For Coffee, Sugar, And Flour with Bamboo Lids And Silicone Seals.
Start by removing everything from the shelves and checking expiration dates. Discard anything that is no longer safe to eat, and set aside unopened, nonperishable items that your family is unlikely to use. These can often be donated to a local food pantry, helping others while reducing clutter in your own kitchen. As you go, group similar items together, such as baking supplies, canned goods, snacks, and spices. This makes it easier to see what you already have and simplifies meal planning.
A pantry refresh is especially valuable before holiday baking and entertaining begin. You may discover extra bags of flour, cans of pumpkin puree, or unopened boxes of stuffing mix that can be incorporated into upcoming meals. Creating designated spaces for holiday essentials allows you to quickly find ingredients when preparing recipes, reducing stress during what is often a hectic time of year.
Once the pantry has been decluttered, consider giving the shelves a thorough cleaning and investing in a few storage containers or labels. An organized pantry not only looks appealing but also makes holiday cooking more efficient. By starting the season with a clean, well-stocked space, you’ll be better prepared to enjoy festive gatherings and focus on what truly matters—spending time with family and friends.
Need a bit more inspo? Click here to read my post about organizing your home the easy, sensible way.
As you close the pantry door on a freshly organized space, take a moment to appreciate the simplicity it brings. Clearing away the excess isn’t just about making room for holiday ingredients—it’s about creating room for peace, gratitude, and joyful gatherings. With every shelf in order and every item in its place, you’re setting the stage for a season filled with warm memories, shared meals, and heartfelt celebrations. Here’s to a holiday season that feels a little lighter, a little brighter, and wonderfully prepared. ✨🍂🎄
Want video tips on simple ways to bake sourdough? Visit my YouTube channel where I dive deeper into the simpler ways to make the healthiest of breads!!!
XOXO,
