Gift Certificates are for Giving

There are many commonalities when I work with my clients. Just to name a few: loose change, excess junk mail or an abundance of gift certificates. Today, I am compelled to discuss gift certificates.

Gift certificates are a great idea for the person who has everything. It can be extra special if it is for a favourite store.

When you receive gift certificates, I always recommend keeping them together in one location. Some ideas are a decorative basket, vase, dish or box, and within your sight. If they are kept together, you will save time (and money!) searching for misplaced valuable gift certificates.

If you accumulate too many, it is time to start using them. There are several ways to redeem the certificates.

1. Sale items

Check flyers for sales and save even more cash on your special purchase.

2. Treat yourself

What do you dream about constantly? What is your muse? Is there something you want but just don’t take the time to treat yourself? Recently I was given a coupon for one of my favourite stores, I was so excited by the thoughtfulness that it took me a few days to put the certificate to good use. It finally dawned on me that I should make the time to go out and buy the item I had been thinking about for the last 6 months or so. (Imagine that!) Every time I look at my new purchase it puts a smile on my face and I think fondly of my thoughtful friend who took the time to buy me the personalized gift certificate.

3. Pay it forward

There are many charities that could benefit from your gift certificate donation. Whether is used for much needed, essential items, it can also be used to raise funds. Not too long ago, I had the pleasure to serve on the Board for Girls Inc Durham. A non profit agency like Girls Inc can use the gift certificates to raise funds as an auction item.

However you decide to use your certificates, be sure to use them within 2 months. Don’t let them collect dust; enjoy and appreciate the gift of giving!

Lurlene Anderson
Professional Organizer
Writer & Speaker
http://www.organizeyourworld.ca/
http://www.lurleneanderson.com/

Seven steps to a Clutter Free Christmas!

Christmas is a special time, a wonderful season and reason to spend time and catch up with family, friends and loved ones. It is also a time when you feel the most stress; too much to do in so little time. Here’s a few tips to help you clear the clutter in your home so you can look forward to entertaining.

You can clear your home with a check list of easy to do steps. Before you start, have bags and bins ready for sorting.

Step 1

Go through your home and put all the recycling in your recycle bin or bag.

Step 2

Gather all items you no longer use, love or damaged. Put all the usable items in a bag and donate to charity. A lot of Thrift Stores will pick up from your home; the pickup will help save you time for other priorities.

Step 3

Put all trash items together to be disposed.

Step 4

Put all the dishes in your dishwasher or sink to wash right away.

Step 4

Clear and wipe clean all table top and counter surfaces.

Step 5

Dust

Step 6

Wash the floors

Step 7

Clean the bathrooms. And remember to hang fresh, clean towels!