We are home from vacation and I am craving more structure to my days. Today I am cultivating sanctuary by finishing some tasks, including tidying, that will set me up for a more focused day tomorrow. ⁣ ⁣

One of the systems that has long served us well is having a transition zone at the top of our stairs. Our home has two levels—the main floor that includes the kitchen and the lower level that includes the family room, Miss T’s room, Andrew’s office/studio, and a bar area where we also keep the Keurig for coffee. ⁣ ⁣ When we set things on this dresser, it’s code for “take this down stairs.” Then the next time one of us goes downstairs, we take some items down and carry them to their home or final destination.

We use a ledge and a landing at the bottom of the stairs that serves a similar function when we are in clean up mode downstairs and have items (usually dirty dishes and laundry, recycling, or books to return to school) that need to travel upstairs.⁣ ⁣

This practice has served us well because it helps us to keep momentum on a task in one part of the house before moving on to the next. Usually clearing the transition zone takes no more than 5-6 minutes with a few quick trips up or down the stairs moving items to their destination.⁣ ⁣

What practices do you use to help keep or restore order in your home? ⁣ ⁣

What simple practices make a difference for your day?⁣