Thank you so much for joining me this week for the Clean Your House for Christmas Challenge. It made such a big difference in our home and it inspired me to continue cleaning out other neglected areas in our home in the coming days and weeks.
Today was the first day all week that I’ve finally felt almost completely 100% again — which was such a blessing after days of being sick and then just feeling really tired as a result of being sick. I’m so grateful to be on the mend and back to full steam again!
Silas made scrambled eggs for breakfast — and needed almost zero help from me to make them! I still turn the burner on for him and oversee him carefully, but it’s exciting to see him really picking up on cooking skills this year.
I started the She Reads Truth 1 & 2nd Peter Study today… I can already tell I’m going to benefit greatly from it! Taking time to be quiet and spend time studying God’s Word, reading from a good book, and counting my blessings is such a great start to my day!
I love that this girl has really started to love reading! I keep catching her with her nose stuck in books this week!
While I was working on finishing up my morning cleaning, Silas asked if he could help clean all the windows. He spent an HOUR working on cleaning all the windows on the first floor! I was quite impressed!
The rest of the morning was spent on homeschooling. Right before lunch, I finally had a chance to get in a quick run on the treadmill. And then Jesse got home and made lunch while I hopped in the shower and got dressed and ready.
I came downstairs and we ate lunch and read aloud together. Then Jesse took over homeschooling and I headed out to spend a few hours working at the shared office space we have a membership to. I was grateful to finally feel up to getting out of the house today… while I love being home, I find that I’m much more productive when I leave for the afternoon and working at the office space. Plus, it was just good to get out of the house after being home almost all day every day for the past week because I just haven’t felt well.
When I got home, I tackled the bathroom cupboards. I’m kind of embarrassed to show you this one… because you see that duffle bag stuffed in the cupboard?
That’s a duffle bag we packed for a trip we went on in AUGUST.
Um, yeah.
I wasn’t kidding when I told you I’ve neglected deep cleaning…
It feels SO good to f-i-n-a-l-l-y have that bag unpacked and put away. And to have that bathroom cupboard cleaned out and organized.
Bathroom cupboard #2: Before
And after. Much better.
While I didn’t get all the deep cleaning done that I’d hoped to this week, I tackled a LOT of projects and areas that have been very neglected these past six months of my life and it feels so good to open drawers and closets and cupboards and see such neat and organized spaces again.
Now I’m determined to work on keeping them that way!
Leave a Comment & You Could Win This Stack of Books!
In my cleaning today, I found some more books that I’d love to pass on to a good home, most all that are ones I’ve loved and just want to share with someone who could be encouraged by them! Plus, I threw in a copy of both my audiobook, Say Goodbye to Survival Mode, and a copy of my new Choose Gratitude Blessings Journal that’s now out of stock in our store (I have a few copies left!), and a copy of my first book, The Money Saving Mom’s Budget.
Who wants to win them? To win, just leave a comment on this post and I’ll choose one winner tomorrow evening and will mail them to you so you’ll have them in time for Christmas. Some of these books are great condition and might even work as gifts for people on your Christmas list!
Did you work on cleaning your house today? If you blogged about participating in this Clean Your House For Christmas Challenge, leave the direct link to your post below that is specifically about this challenge. Or, leave a comment telling us how your cleaning went today.
The winner of yesterday’s stack of books is Jennifer (jjsbarrilleaux@) — I sent you an email tonight to ask for your address.
The winner of this stack of books from today’s giveaway is Kaitlin (literarymademoiselle@) — I sent you an email requesting your address. Congrats!
NLD says
That’s a lot of work!
T says
How do you let go of so many books? What are the questions you ask yourself?
I have done well decluttering toys & clothes, and I need to do books but I have a hard time parting with them! I’m not sure if it’s that I feel they have valuable information so I can’t let that go? I don’t know. I have over 1000 books in my house and can’t even find what I need. The books you give away are GREAT, so do you just think about it like once you’ve read it you probably won’t again, so better to pass it along to someone who will?
Before you had MSM, did you just donate to Goodwill or where?
Thanks for your thoughts!
T
Crystal Paine says
Because we have such a great library and I rarely read books more than once, I don’t hang onto many books unless they are hard-to-find books we love, books that have some other sentimental value, books I know I’ll use again in our homeschooling, or books I know I’ll want to hang onto to reference or something.
I love to loan books out or just pass them onto to a good home… because I’d rather someone else be benefiting from them than them just sitting on our shelves.
I’ve done many things with our books — swapping them on PaperBackSwap, selling them in used book sales, selling them online, trading them in for credit on Amazon, selling them in our garage sales, and passing them onto friends.
T says
Thanks so much for taking the time to reply. That really does help.
Your daughter’s minimalist wardrobe inspired me to tackle my daughter’s room today. It took SIX hours to do closet, drawers and all, but it’s clean and lovely and so great. We both love it. The key was getting rid of a bunch of stuff of course!
Your half empty closets and drawers just inspire me so much. I honestly never considered that my drawers didn’t have to be stuffed full before! So much easier to clean & maintain this way. Tahnks for opening up your home and life to us–I know it’s hard to be vulnerable to strangers!
Crystal Paine says
Thanks so much for your kind encouragement! I’m so grateful that it’s been an inspiration to you!
Kelly M says
I am inspired by your cleaning and living vicariously through you! Deep cleaning is on my agenda for next week!
Crystal @ Serving Joyfully says
Love seeing this peek into your day…thanks for sharing!
April Morin says
I too have neglected my organizing the past few months. Your post just inspired me to tackle it today. I would love to win the books. I know something is missing in my life in guidance and I am hoping to find it in 2015.
Beth Mendoza says
I have been cleaning and purging all month. Thanks for the encouragement to continue!
Teri says
Thank you for all the encouragement and hope! This is a blessing!
Trish says
My husband and I finally tackled the fridge last night and when my 7 y/o daughter opened the door, she said “wow, we have no food Mom!”
amy wayne says
All those titles look amazing and I love to lead by example so if my girls see me reading it may encourage them to read a lil extra too ! thanks for all you do !
Rachael Novak says
I feel like I’ve been decluttering/organizing my house every week for over a year, and while it feels satisfying once you finish a project short term, I feel like a week or 2 later there’s always another project I just HAVE to do next. I work from home with 2 little ones (1 & 3) and organizing is a never ending process. When my house gets cluttered, my mind gets cluttered! I think I just do it to feel more in control ;). That busy book caught my eye lol I’m going to see if they have it at the library tomorrow!
Janice says
How ironic. I was just wondering what you did with all the books that you read. I didn’t know if you kept them for building a library for later use, donated them, or gave them away. Now I know! lol
Manuela says
With a toddler in the house it’s hard to keep order but we strugle to be organized!
Erin says
Looks like a great stack of books!
Brenda Albers says
I love all the ways you encourage and motivate others to be their best!!! Thanks!! I would love to win and read through the books you have as your giveaways to continue growing as a wife and mom, friend and family member!!!
Cari says
Great job on the duffel bag and below the sink area. They both looked so intimidating. I really like how little clutter you have.
LInda says
I am working on getting some cabinets clear out but we cleared out one of my many bookcases. My daughter thinks I am a book hoarder so with her help we will be donating two tote bags full of books. 🙁 oh well. We still have about 4 more book cases to go through. Thanks for the inspiration.
Felicia says
Cleaning out some stuff is on my Christmas break list.
Meagan Hemingson says
I did some organizing on the first and second day, but I just finished up a bunch of homemade Christmas gifts and got them mailed off today. It feels good, but definitely made a bigger mess to pick up 😉
jenny says
I’d love to win some new books to read this coming year!
Sabrina says
I would love to win some free books!
Thanks!
Sabrina
Lind says
Enjoy reading your blog – just cleaned out all the crevices in the vacuum cleaner – a chore in itself but with 2 dogs needs to be done more often than I care to admit. The books look amazing and would be thrilled to read them.
Thank you
Mindy says
Your cleaning posts inspire me to get my butt into gear with mine 😉
Krystal Arnold says
This is motivating… would love to read those books!!
Rhoda says
Good job. Looks like a good stack of books!
Jen says
I’m studying to be a teacher and I love that your kids read!!!! Love that picture:-)
I’d love to read those books so I hope I win:-)
Jaime says
I would LOVE to win this stack of books!
Kristi Frick says
I love seeing I wasn’t the only one on a cleaning mission. After 12 loads in 2 days, I hate to see my water bill….and I already have more dirty laundry ! Lol
wendy says
Wow- so great to see your posts and then see how they inspired so many others. I’d love to read the books and share them with family.
Mari says
I’d love to read these books
gloria says
I would love to win the books
Kim says
I am always inspired by your blog to become a better mother, wife and all around better woman. Not only do I come here to comb through the blog and get inspired to clean my house, save money, but this is also soul cleansing as well. Thank you! 🙂
Kristen says
Another great round of books! I always love to see what you read/have on hand. Also, it’s impressive how Silas does so well with his cooking at such a young age. I think I was 22 years old before I attempted to make scrambled eggs…you inspire me to teach my kids from a young age how to cook. It’s such a great skill to have.
becky says
Your cleaning inspires me to tackle a cleaning project as well!
Grace says
Looks like some great titles! Would love to win these.
Vanessa says
More books! Yes, please! 🙂
Charlene E says
If these cupboards are your idea of a mess, then throw me in pigpen prison! Seriously? OH MY Goodness. These are soooooo not filthy by any means. I get that an unpacked duffle needs to get unpacked, but I keep my spaces up quite often and they are still 4 times as full as your spaces. Not wrong, just different.
Anna says
I’ve been working on keeping our flat surfaces clear of clutter. It’s amazing how much of a difference that makes!
Heidi says
It’s inspiring to see Silas cooking and cleaning on his own. My 9-year-old is very helpful; I’ll be sure to get him going on windows!
KatieP says
Love that you are sharing your cleaning challenges!! I feel motivated to clean my bathroom cupboards now too…it’s been too long! And how fun that you are giving away your books!
Happy Healthy and Wealthy Girl says
Wow I am impressed how Silas is being such a great little helper!
I totally need to join this cleaning challenge!
Mindy Miller says
I would love! Downsized our whole family a few months ago and moved from MN to AZ! Moved a family of 4 in a 6×10 foot uhaul!
Jen H says
Thanks for the chance
shirley says
You’ve inspired me to do some deep cleaning this week! I went through all the kitchen cabinets and baby clothes this week. It feels so good to have things organized and a bag of clothes is ready to go to goodwill!
christine geary says
Cleaning one small project like the bathroom vanity is a small victory that can give a large sense of accomplishment when you have only a small amount of time. Thanks for sharing.
Heather says
Would love to win your stack of books, and send some of your energy this way too please! 🙂
Cristin Callahan says
I have been trying to declutter my house for about a year now, and this is a good reminder to go back through the areas I did a while ago. Stuff has crept back into some of them, and they all need cleaning. I went through the kitchen cupboards and removed everything, cleaned them, and replaced only what I actually need. Now I have another box of kitchen stuff to donate. 🙂 Happy Holidays, glad you are feeling better.
Megan says
Need to declutter, too!
Cheryl Wagner says
I would love to win! The books look very interesting. Thank you.
Sarah Hernandez says
Looks like a nice stack of books. Would love to win!
Heather says
Glad you’re finally feeling better!
Maureen F. says
I’m trying to get some deep cleaning before the new year. I would love to win the stack of books–there are some books in there that I really want to read.
Julia says
It’s Sunday, and I overslept. LOL I know I need to get the dishes under control and clean off my dining room table. There is so much to do I am overwhelmed, so I need to focus on the basics for now, or they will never get done! Thank you for your challenge, it’s really motivating me! 🙂
JoAnna Smith says
Thanks for all your encouraging posts! Would love to win! ☺
Jess Frias says
Thx for all the tips and.tricks 😉 Getting a lot of cleaning done. Hope to win the books!
Nicole B says
I love to read and it would be so fun to win all those books!
Olivia Adair says
Oh the cleaning I need to do! Of course, if I win the books, I may be even more distracted. And I’m okay with that! 🙂
Emily says
Oh my goodness I would love to win all these books! I participated in this challenge and it was amazing to see how quickly clutter can be created! My husband is in law school, so since we are one income, I through everything I can into my job to get us through with zero debt! I neglect cleaning sometimes. Thanks for this challenge!
SaRena says
i would love to read your books to see how you do all the great things you do !!
Diana Campbell says
I would love to win.
Rochelle says
Not much cleaning yesterday but I did finish a Christmas present I made for my sister-in-law. One more thing off the list….yay!!!
Angela M says
I have been working on deep cleaning my house as well. Since we put up our Christmas tree, I have been going through crates and crates of stuff purging…All Christmas stuff!!! We don’t have any storage space in our new house so I decided instead of buying a shed to put stuff in, we just need to get rid of stuff. Thanks for sharing your cleaning project, it is definitely helping keep me motivated 🙂
Joan Martin says
Would love to win thay stack of books. NEED to get deep cleaning. Ugh
Darla says
Boy, my deep cleaning has been neglected lately too! Following this Monday our Christmas programs are done and my schedule will have a little breathing room again! I feel more stressed when my schedule is full and my house is a mess!
Jamie says
I’m not feeling well now, I just want to have my entire family healthy for Christmas day. The dirt will still be there (unfortunately!)
Elisabeth Bishop says
I’ve enjoyed following along with your challenge. We are not ready to start deep-cleaning yet. My hubby is a pastor, so this time of year adds a Wednesday evening service every week of December on top of his normal duties. And as I am his secretary extraordinaire 🙂 I have to make up the service folders and other things, so we are just doing bare minimum. But with January comes some slowing down, and I’ll be working through our deep cleaning then! If you haven’t already gotten a winner for your stack of books, throw me in the drawing, please! I’d love a chance to get them. 🙂
Gretchen says
I have been sick as well and lots of cleaning is getting neglected!
Valerie Bryant says
Thanks for all the great tips and suggestions. I’m organizing closets to finally put away summer clothes but took a break today.
Sharon says
I am a full time mom and college student so deep cleaning rarely gets done during the semester. I take my winter and summer breaks to get to the deep cleaning. Obviously more gets done over the summer break than winter break because summer break is longer and winter break is filled with holiday fun 🙂
connie says
Put away ALL of my clean clothes, made the bed, cleaned up shoe area and removed several pairs that were worn out or no longer comfortable…will make a donation of shoes and clothing tomorrow…moving along items that I do not need. Thanks for sharing!!
Christie Sheffield says
I very much enjoy your blog.
Jennifer says
Looks like a productive day!
Mike Zoril says
Time to win some books!
Ashley says
I’ve been out of town for two weeks and I’m looking forward to cleaning and de-cluttering so I can FINALLY decorate for Christmas! Your blog and especially this series of posts have been so motivating! Thank you
Melissa Kaiserman says
I have been super intentional the past couple of weeks about our kitchen–keeping the counters clutter-free, putting away the dry dishes in the side of the sink, and sweeping & mopping daily. Having the kitchen clean and in order completely affects my day!
Tamboliya says
PART 2: I tried to start some homemade Christmas gifts so that I can give them away and thus, declutter my house (an indirect way of working on my house). I did this by cutting and pinning some green bric brac onto a hot pink t-shirt to resemble a flower stem and then pinned some yellow strips of fabric onto the shirt to make the flower. These will be gifts to my friend/sister-in -Christ’s 2 identical twin daughters (matching princess pink T-shirts that I decorated/embellished myself). I have never sewed these before so I feel a little out of my element, especially since I do not know how to sew very well! :O Yikes. But I am trying any way. 🙂
Cathy R. says
I really enjoy reading your blog posts. My favorite is when you post the free ebooks! I’m so delighted to be able to download those. I also love your email updates. Thanks so much for all you do. 🙂
Michelle says
I am thankful for you and your courage to be real and honest about your daily life. I also love how you share ways you’ve found to be more organized and to manage money and daily household tasks more efficiently and how you encourage other women to do the same. Thank you! If I win your stack of books, I will not only read them but pass them on to my 2 daughter in laws and other young homeschooling Mama’s that I am blessed to know.
Heather says
Yay!
Amy Graham says
Thanks so much for this challenge this week! I’ve tackled all of our bedrooms and a kitchen cabinet and donated 11 garbage bags and 1 box of books today!! We also threw away 5 bags full of trash/broken/ unsalvageable items! I still have more to do but I feel like I accomplished a ton this week!
Emma McArdel says
I did absolutely no cleaning today! It was a great family day.
Tamboliya says
PART 1: Today I opened shades; fed cats; scooped litter boxes; spent quality time w/ my cats (petting & playing w/ them, helping them get exercise, stimulation & bonding time); made spaghetti brunch; checked online & called many pet stores to inquire of certain pet products; dealt with email; downloaded many free ebooks from Amazon; took a nap; returned a call finalizing plans w/ a friend; wrote items on calendar; signed up for a free sample; made dinner; listened to sermon on radio; etc.
Natalie C says
You are an inspiration to what a little organization and hard work can do! LOVE your blog!!
Gloria says
Under the counter looks so lovely and organized, but where did your hair dryer disappear to?
Manon says
Thank you so much for sharing your ideas and tips with all of us. I love to have a clean and organized home but lately it looks like I’m just falling off the wagon, ;-). With two boys and a third on the way ( just days away) and a very small space to work with, I really feel overwhelmed sometimes. But I thank God for his mercy and constant presence in our home. I just hope and pray that in a couple of months everything is going to get better. Thank you again for everything that you do and God bless you!
Melissa says
Thank you for your posts. They are so encouraging. I would love to win the book giveaway!
Katie A says
Deep cleaning my house has been something on my “to-do” list for some time! Any suggestions on how to get it done w/ 3 kids 3 1/2 yrs apart (ages 4, 2, and 8 mo.) and working nights? The kids and hubby help out, I just feel like we are in the “busy” season of our lives, so the house is never as clean as I would like it. When I do manage to get it to a certain standard of clean, I feel like I sacrifice my time at home w/ my kids-I only get 2 nights off a week (and then it’s messy the next day anyway).
On a seperate, unrelated note, that stack of books contains a LOT of books I would love to own. 🙂
april says
I got no cleaning done today, we were on the run! A birthday party for the afternoon followed by a live Journey to Bethlehem and dinner with family. Thanks for continuing to be such a positive inspiration!
Angel Thode says
You are such an inspiration! I put off deep cleaning until next week. My husband graduates from a very intense college program on Monday so he’ll be around to help me manage our rambunctious boys so I can get it DONE!!! Can’t wait!
Janine says
I would love these! Thanks!
Erin B says
Congrats on the accomplishments this week!
Missy says
I would love to win this stack of books! I always need ways to fill my cup around the holidays, and my morning reading is so special to me.
Cindy J says
The “before” pic of your cabinets looks much better than my “after” pic. 🙂 Thank you for the motivation and tips, you are the best!
ali says
Great job Crystal. I am glad you are feeling better, you inspire me because you are so busy and still manage to do a lot more.
Besides I would love to read your book because I never had a chance to.
Dominique Saito says
I’m so inspired by your spirit and attitude! I love your blog! Hope you have a great Christmas and good work on the cleaning!
Cassandra Peterson says
Loved this post, and all you stand for! Would love the stack and books 🙂
Jess says
Great post, great books!
Sonia says
It was a rough day so I didn’t clean. Hopefully on Monday!
Tina says
We cleaned out the basement and passed 2 full bags of clothes onto a friend of mine. Felt so good to get rid of it!
Rebecca Y says
This looks like a great stack!
Amy says
Just seeing the title of these posts motivates me to clean. The office and downstairs are done.
Susan T says
My husband deep cleaned our daughter’s room today. He filled an entire leaf size trash bag full of papers and other broken bits of fluff she had collected. At age 7, sometimes it is still better to tackle the deep cleaning and let her handle daily maintenance because the deep stuff is too hard. She “loves” all of her things and can’t throw anything away! She was so grateful to come home and find her room sparkling thanks to her Dad and big brother. I was thrilled too!
Melanie says
I so need to clean my bathroom cupboards, it has been MUCH longer than several months! Thank you for the inspiration.
Barb Jolly says
I would absolutely love to read these books.
Traci says
I am glad you are feeling better! You should take the kiddos to the Ice exhibit at opry mills hotel property it is incredible. We are a few hrs away near Louisville and go. It is worth it. Also… My mom’s group is doing the best yes study…. How will you purposefully choose wisdom? I love it!!!
Crystal Paine says
Thanks so much for the recommendation!!
Megan says
Very motivational! I need to get moving on my list for this next week. I’d love some new reading material! 🙂
Sara Pulliam says
I love your blog and I would love to win the books!!!
Lindsay Witwer says
I would love to win some new reading material!
Lynn says
These look like great books! Thanks for sharing.
Crystal says
I could use some inspiration. I love reading your blog someday I hope to master all your wonderful ideas.
Shea says
Even your “clutter” doesn’t look that bad.
Roslyn Martinez says
I hardly ever comment but I need new books to read. 😉 at least I’m being honest. But I did follow along with you and my kids and hubby mentioned how tidy things look. So yay me! And you Crystal. 🙂
Rhonda says
Got home from work & then had a date with hubby. Got 1 load of clothes washed. Hopefully, I’ll accomplish more tomorrow, but I call today a success. I made hubby happy.
Kim says
I tackled the mountain of clean laundry on my bedroom floor. I folded for over an hour and then spent another 15 minutes putting all the clothes away. It’s so nice to see my bedroom floor again!
Sarah says
Oh my goodness. Books are my kryptonite. This is amazing.
Jen Even says
Not gonna lie, I slept in this morning and didn’t get much cleaning done. But I needed that and it will only make me stronger for tomorrow. My major clean up for the day was just spending some extra time with my kiddos from such a long week of being on the computer and prepping for an event.
Carrie Tucker says
I am completely with you on the deep cleaning. I gave birth to twin boys two weeks ago, and after spending time in the ICU, I’m finally home. I’ve been lying around for the past 3 months dreaming of getting down to business with cleaning. I never thought that would be a top priority once I felt well.
Tara Martin says
Pick me!! Pick me!! Would love to win this stack of books. 🙂 Thanks for all your hard work. You motivate me daily!
Carrie says
Cleaned floor and kitchen!
Ashley Merrithew says
I’m jealous of how little you have in your bathroom cupboards!
Nydia says
I loved this post! You are an inspiration 🙂
Anissa says
Wrapping presents today. Is that like organizing? I removed them from all the hiding places 🙂
Tamara V says
Thanks for the inspiration! I love your blog!
Melissa says
Glad you are feeling better! Today I cleaned out my laundry closet and also our coat closet. It feels so good to have those clean even if no one else sees it.
Jan says
I look forward to reading your posts from my email every night!
Angie says
Great job, I love that you involve your kids in daily tasks, sometimes that is so hard to do, but I know it will be worth it in the end.
Kristin @ The Touring Camper says
Looks like a great stack of books to win! Thank you for the giveaway!
Leslie says
I know these books would so inspire and encourage me right now in this phase of my life. Thank you for offering them out to truly bless someone this season!
Kelly says
I would love reading material as I’m stuck in a hospital bed at home & find times where I would love to read to relax.
Deanna says
Wow, great inspiration! love the books 🙂
Priscilla says
I’d love to win your gratitude journal!
wendy says
Thank you for all of the great tips and ideas!
Paula M says
Getting motivated from your posts! Cannot wait to wrap up my busy workload and tackle some household cleaning projects. Thank you so much for all of your hard work and have a blessed holiday.
Amy says
I helped around my mom’s. Vacuuming and shopping with her.
Rachell Averett says
Thank you for being such an inspiration to me all these years. I have been following you since 2008.
Sarah says
I am so impressed Silas is cooking on the stove. Wow!
Ruth says
Recently found and love your blog! Thanks for passing along the encouragement! 🙂
Natalie says
Love this post! Your mission is so inspiring! Thank you for everything you do…!
Amber says
Not only would I love to win the books, but I’m inspired by this post. I need to dig under my bathroom sink and see what’s hiding under there. I’m also going to see if I can convince my 6-year-old to clean my windows!
Karla says
Today was a struggle at home. Just a day of sas and disobedience. I know it happens some times, but wow dig it bring me down. I did however get some household chores done.
Heather Schneider says
I would love to win these….good job on day 5!
kathy wallace says
You are really getting a lot done. Great job!
Leslie says
I would love to know more about your routine for quiet time in the Word. I would love to know what books/devotionals you would recommend, and ways/ideas to get started. I know that is something I have wanted to add to my day, I just don’t know where to start! Thanks!
Suzanne says
Glad you are feeling better
Patty S. says
I’ve spent a lot of time this week working on some deep cleaning and decluttering projects I’ve been wanting to get done before Christmas. My 4 year old loves to help out around the house. My 9 year old…not so much :).
Josephine says
Would love to win some books to add to my reading list
Becky Goins says
Enjoyed reading this! It’s pretty easy to get behind on the deep cleaning! Thank you for the inspiring (as always) article and the chance to win this awesome looking stack of books. 🙂
mary beth says
I have been trying to get “caught up” on cleaning this week too….made good headway today…now I need to keep the momentum going!
Sarah D. says
Good for you! Even if you didn’t get everything accomplished that you wanted to in your challenge, you still got SOMEthing done, which is better than nothing!
Angella Bundz says
Hello, thank you for the cleaning encouragement. Our dishwasher has not been cleaning so well. So today I called the appliance company and I was going to just ask them to come out and fix it. But I wanted to save the money and so I asked them about it. So I took out the filter in the bottom of the dishwasher and cleaned it all and realized it needed to be tightened to the bottom. Maybe this will help someone else with something I didn’t know.
Dori says
Glad you’re feeling better! Great progress and thank you for being a REAL person 😉 We love you!! And I loooooove to read!
Faith Still says
I would love to win these books. Thank you for sharing such a wonderful blessing with a lucky reader.
Chris says
good looking books!
Natalie Schroeder says
I didn’t get to my bedroom as planned today, instead I took a much needed nap with my daughter, took my dog on a run outside (which in the middle of Dec. in ND is amazing!), and spent some quality time with my husband this morning!
Karen says
Thanks for motivating us to get done what we can get done each on cleaning our houses. This was the first day all week that I feel we made much progress, but it was a lot of progress. We started the week very tired from a long trip and with two cases of strep, so school, meals, and the bare necessities were about all we could manage. But everyone is well now and mostly caught up on their rest.
The stack of books looks like a really nice selection to win.
karen b says
helped our daughter make some Christmas presents for a couple friends
Jennifer Madigan says
I love how real you are on your site. Thank you for showing us all that we can strive to be our best selves but don’t have to keep up with the Jones. This year we are working in debt so we can one day live the way we really want.
Lisa says
I have sooooo loved this series! You have motivated me to work on some neglected areas in my house. Thanks for all you do!
K. Couch says
I would love a chance to win the books:-) it was really sweet of your little guy to make breakfast. I have been letting my four and six year old help more and more in the kitchen. It does take more time, but they will definitely learn by doing and be more willing to try different foods if they help. Kids want to be just like their parents when they are little:-)
barb corile says
Today was the first day in a long time that I hardly cleaned at all. It was nice to play with my boys.
Leah Pipkorn says
Me, pick me! 😀 Thank you for these awesome giveaways – and for sharing your cleaning adventures with us.
tracy criswell says
I need to give my home a deep cleaning.
Cheryl says
Thanks for inspiring me to deep clean in manageable chunks. Love that you focused on a few cabinets, rather than an entire house, as I would be prone to do. I tend to go all or nothing!
Love to receive the stack of books! I’d be especially excited to read your older budget book. I already have a well used copy of Say Goodbye to Survival Mode, so I’d share the new one with a friend. 🙂
Nyree says
I’m always inspired by your posts! Thank you! Been working on having the kids help more with small cooking tasks and cleaning. They love it!
Debrah says
Glad you are feeling better. It’s tough when you can’t do all that you want to do. Thanks for this challenge, I’ll be working through it next week, since my son had surgery this week.
Brandy Fisk says
I’m trying to get my kids more involved cleaning and cooking!
Mandy Medbourn says
I’d love to win! There are a lot of books here that I’ve been really wanting to read 🙂
Julie S. says
Very inspiring!! Hopefully with the help of my 5 children, we can clean and get organized before Christmas! Thank you Crystal!
Elizabeth says
After reading all your cleaning post this week, I am really inspired to go through and clean my place. Though hopefully it won’t take breaking it up by days, as I live in a one-room apartment! Anyway, thanks for the inspiration! I need someone to help hold me accountable too, even if ya’ll don’t know that’s what you’re doing!
Cindy says
I love reading your posts. You have a beautiful attitude about life!
Bethany says
Cleaned the bathroom and the stovetop- both were a tad yucky.
denise says
Some cleaning got done today. Mostly by my children on their own initiative! Yeah! They are such a blessing. 🙂
Allison T Jones says
thanks for the chance to win the books!
and good job on the cleaning!
Jill peel says
Yay for boys making eggs! Reminds me of my boys- they love making eggs and it’s such yummy cheap protein – I can’t argue that! Enjoy your holiday Crystal!
Krista says
You’ve inspired me AGAIN, Crystal! I’ve been going through those boxes of “stuff” that have followed me around since college (20 years ago!!! And have only grown in size…) and lived in the back of several closets. Ugh! But no more…they are getting smaller, and one is completely empty and in the recycling bin! I WILL keep this going! Thank you 🙂
Kathleen says
I didn’t do any cleaning today, just the normal maintenance. But we enjoyed some family outing time which was nice!
Maria says
Such a good idea to let your son learn to cook. You can see his sense of pride doing it himself.
Becky says
I would love to win some books. I should be cleaning for Christmas.
Sarah W says
Seeing what your children can do to help out around the house is inspiring. My oldest is Silas’s age, and we’ve begun working on a variety of chores with him. Today was my youngest child’s first birthday party, so cleaning was put on hold as we celebrated with friends.
Krista miller says
I have been reading your blog for years and still love it!
Jennifer says
One of my sons loves to clean and is a window person like your son. It tickles me to see him have so much fun making things look nice. I’m not nearly “free” enough with letting my children cook by themselves. I need to kick that part of my perfectionist personality out so they get more chances at kitchen creations. Thanks for sharing!
Wendy says
I like seeing the age other people train their children to cook. It makes me realize that I need to be more diligent about life skills.
Amy says
Wow – seeing that picture of Silas at the stove makes me think I might want to let my daughter get more involved with cooking. (She loves to help with baking!) We have a gas stove, though, so I’m not sure I’m ready to let her near the flame!
Wendy says
I love books and would be so happy to add these to my collection!!
Brittany Barber says
You are such an inspiration and awesome motivator! Now if I could just get someone to take my 4 kids for the day, I could really get something done! 😉
Kristina says
I would love some new reading material!
Susan Stowell says
It would be great to win these books, especially yours, Ann Voskamp, and Dave Ramsey. That’s a great stack of books! Appreciate your generosity especially at Christmas.
Brigette says
It’s so motivation to read your posts. Your children are so motivated! You really inspire me to get on the ball! I’ve tackled my closet and have to bag to give to charity.
Emily Boven says
Good for you letting Silas take on those tasks! It’s so hard for me to let the little ones do it and not correct them!! 🙂
Trisha says
I should really join you in the Christmas cleaning challenge!
Jill Smith says
The clutter piles are a constant battle at our house. They come back so quickly. I just don’t know how to keep them away.
Heather says
I did not clean or organize at all today. But, I would be beyond blessed to win these books. Thanks for your amazing blog!
Susan Dobbins says
Glad you are on the mend! The forest for the trees thing…if we tackle a little at a time, pretty soon, the whole forest is tidy! LOL. Thanks for posting, hope I win.
Bridget Burritt says
I hope I win these books. I will be taking three weeks off from homeschooling and I look forward to cleaning and organizing.
Kelli says
Thanks for the chance to win the books! I’m always trying to find time to read more. That is one of my goals for next year.
Melody J says
thanks for the inspiration. I need to clean places like that again.
Crystal says
I love your website. I’m really enjoying this series! Sometimes cleaning takes a backseat when your a mom!
Deana says
Thanks for the chance to win. These books all look great!
Lindsay Jones says
Love the idea of clearing out before Christmas and starting fresh and de cluttered for the new year!! Enjoy your blog posts so much!
Ann says
I would love to win the books! Thanks for all that you do to help families.
Linda Olsen says
I’m not feeling well today, but would love to get going on Christmas cleaning. You are an inspiration!
Rachel says
Would love to win these books!
Wendy says
It was so nice to have a clean house today when we had family over. New goal: Keep it clean until Tuesday when we have people over again!
Tara G says
I would love to win these! Thanks for the chance to win them. 🙂
Kerri W. says
You’re so thoughtful to share these books with others! Thanks for the opportunity to win. 😉
jenna says
I’ve been procrastinating reading blogs and commenting. Oh wait, that’s every day, haha! I would love to win these books, but thanks for the chance and for giving them away!
Brandy Smoker says
Yes please! You have helped SO much!
Lyndi A says
books are paper treasure! Would love to win 🙂
Kendra says
Books look like great reads!
Lauren says
Nope. Didn’t work on any cleaning today! Saturday’s are for relaxing!
nicole says
Great job, Crystal! I hope to start using a gratitude journal in 2015.
Melia says
I’m not participating in the cleaning challenge, but I need too! 🙂
Kaitlin says
I would love to win! Thanks for offering this giveaway! If I won, I would be able to give away another copy of Ann Voskamp’s life changing book. That book changed my way of thinking completely!
D says
I’d love to win books! 🙂
Beverly says
Would love these!
harmony wilson says
i wish my bathroom closets were so uncluttered!
Sherilyn says
thanks for your great blog posts!
Stephanie says
Thanks for giving me the motivation for getting my home cleaned up before family and baby arrives! And keep up the good work!
Susy says
You can never have too many books!!!
Teresa says
Would love some books.
Lenore says
I am sorting my bill box today. January will start off with a cleared out bill box. 😀
I’m also spending part of the day decluttering the basement. I like it as it is, but my hubby is anxious for me to get it cleared out (teaching materials) so we can use it as a family room again. I love being at home and taking my time to declutter. It makes me feel happy!
Brooke sheppard says
I would love to win these books! Love reading your blog! Thank you!
Brecklyn Ferrin says
Oh pick me! I have no money for books right now because we’re saving for my husband to go to grad school next year!
Jackie says
One of my goals in the new year is MORE reading! (of “real” books) Would love to win this stack!
Janet says
Would love to win the books!
Deanna says
Another great pile of books!
Diana M. says
I would love to win these books. Thank you for inspiring me daily.
L Short says
Thanks for the encouragement.
Amy says
Worked on Decluttering my dsughter’s room.
Ramona says
Crystal,
I love your honesty (posting a pic of a forgotten duffle bag). You are such a genuine person to share that. You keep things real on your blog. Thank you being an inspiration to others.
Crystal Paine says
Thanks so much for your encouragement!
Kira says
Would love to win! Will bless others after I read. Thank you for the chance!
Ann Marie Curatolo says
Thank you for the chance to win such an awesome prize.
Nicole W. says
I’m a 1st time mother and came across your site several months ago during a late-night feeding. Many of your posts have helped me just when I needed it. Would love to win your books! (And try to find time to read them while chasing after a 9mo old!)
Britney H says
Great job cleaning! I am just beginning my journey toward becoming more minimalistic, organized, and especially frugal! I am really loving your site and just came across your Facebook page today. Very inspirational and helpful! Thanks! God bless.
Jennifer Hackett-Slimm says
I would love to win a stack of books.
L.L. says
Great Job! You have really inspired me to start unpacking from my move. Thanks!
Jessica says
Thank you for the inspiration!
Kelli Dornblaser says
Definitely need your new book! Would love to win the stack.
Side note.. Not sure if you know but The Color of Money by Michelle Singletary listed your book Say goodbye to Survival Mode first in Book Club Favorites. 🙂
Crystal Paine says
I didn’t know that! Thanks so much for letting me know!
Sara E says
I’d love these books!
Annie says
Things are looking good at your house.
Alex says
I just moved to the States from Argentina, so I needed to give most of my books there, and I LOVE books! So it would be a huge blessing if I can win that pile of books.
I need to say that since I moved here your blog is helping me a LOT in learning about shopping and saving money here in the States, so thank you!!
Saralyn Crawford says
Wish my husband loved deep cleaning as much as me!
I’d love to win some books.
Karen G says
I would love to win those books and then pass them on to bless someone else:).
monica says
Great job cleaning! Looks like a great stack of books too!
monk5 at charter dot net
Jodi epps says
I’d love to win these books!
Christine says
Today I baked a batch of Christmas cookies. I will decorate my tree and house. I baked a casserole, which will be several meals since we only have 2 people. I’ll be taking some to my elderly father-in-law. I washed my sheets. I am working a little on my freelancing job. I did the dishes and will be cleaning up in the living room some. I would love to see an updated minimalist wardrobe vlog from you! 🙂
Rebecca says
Yes I need to tackle my bathroom cupboards! Don’t feel bad, I have a bag I packed for travel still sitting, barely touched from a few weeks ago.
Would love to win those books!
Patrona Dyck says
These inspirations for cleaning my own house for the Holidays have been wonderful! in between menu planning, shopping ahead, cleaning for guests, and Finishing my home made christmas gifts. this is a busy season!
Elisabeth Mark says
Kudos to a job well done! Afraid I have MUCH deep cleaning to be done in my house! Looks like a fantastic pile of books that I’d very much love to read!
Renee says
I have been LOVING this decluttering challenge! Just needed the push to get inspired to do it! I, too, didn’t get everything done I wanted to this week but am delighted by the progress I’ve seen! Thanks again, Crystal for this challenge!
Crystal Paine says
You are so welcome!
Kristen says
Would love to win, thanks!
Courtney says
You have been finding a lot of great books! LOL! Good job on following through and getting your house clean. Looks great!
Becky P says
I would love to win these awesome books! 🙂
Melinda Countess says
Thank you Crystal! You truly inspire me. Help me find more time!!! Would love to win the books for Christmas presents.
Sarah says
You’ve really inspired me to do some deep cleaning around here!
Lauren says
I would love to win some new books!
Chelsea says
Great job! Thanks for inspiring me to tackle projects these last five days. I hope to keep working toward this too over the next several days. You really feel so accomplished afterwards!
Dana Long says
Such a great reminder to not neglect that deep cleaning. I would also love to win those books.
Karen says
just came across your blog in the past month or so and am learning so much…would love to have this stack of books…some great resources! Thanks for all of your encouragement!
Sherry Scheurer says
So happy I found you! Thanks for the book giveaway. They look like good reads.
Johnna says
I love how you are a minimalist. I still have a little ways to go to get there!
Rachel says
I’d be thrilled to win this stack of books! There are many that I’ve wanted to read. An audio version of your book would be great! Thanks for giving us the opportunity to win! Great job on your cleaning. I haven’t started but you’ve inspired me.
RJane says
Would enjoy reading your stack of books!!
Cheryl Rogers says
You have been a catalyst for me this week! I have gotten quite a few projects done and have even focused on some things that will touch others too! Thanks for being honest and real here on your blog!
rosemary crawshaw says
the books would be great to share with family
HoosierMom says
Got caught up with dishes and tidying up the kitchen after having a party this week. Continuing to tweak organization all through my house after moving a few weeks ago.
Melissa Jones says
I’d love to win a stack of books!
Lacie says
Glad you’re feeling better! Your house look great and these look like good reads 🙂 would love to win them
Joyce Bulmer says
I think need to find that 1 & 2 Peter study
Amy S says
So good to get old things out of the house before the new Christmas ones come into it!
Christina says
We got our Christmas decorations up in mid-November, but I STILL had some of the totes (and one tree box) sitting upstairs around the washer and dryer. I finally hauled them down to the basement and was reminded of how much better you feel when you just take 5 minutes to complete the task you’ve been putting off! 🙂 Thanks again for the chance to win! You have such great taste in books!
Kathy Y says
Thanks for the motivation! I needed it this week and will need more next week. We always have a busy December because my son’s birthday is December 15th and I usually have to clean for his party and for a Christmas party. I usually wait until the last minute and frantically clean in a panic. I am trying to be ready early this year!
Abbey Harder says
I think every home has hidden messes somewhere! 🙂 I’ve just recently started reading more (thanks to your blog and love for reading!) and have read a few of the the books you’re giving away, but they were borrowed from the library. I would love to have my own copy of “Start”! I devoured it last January and have been meaning to get my own copy – in fact I was just telling my husband this morning how I’d love to buy a box of them and give them to graduates we know of each spring. Thanks for all your invest in this blog!
Teddy (Theodora) says
Hi, I love receiving your emails and following you on Facebook. That’s just what I’ve been doing is following and not doing. (Bear with me and I’ll get to the point). I’ve been sick since 2007 and in and out of the hospital too. I have fallen so far behind with everything and I was beginning to think that I would never catch up. I found you on the Fly Lady’s website and had more hope about getting my house back in order. It’s taken me this past year to do “the make your bed every morning thing” and then following your posts on Facebook for “the Clean Your House For Christmas” gave me more hope that maybe I could get it done. So, funny enough was we got a new mattress and bed frame. Well, I had to get to work on getting things out of the way for the delivery men. I am a “Pack Rat” to make things worse. Anyway I had to get that done, but the feeling I had after I got our bedroom situated was great. So I took my inspiration from you and started on my kitchen. Under the sink was my first tackle. I’m hoping to keep up what you and your posts have inspired me to do. Thank you for all that you do.
Crystal Paine says
Thanks so much for your kind encouragement! And I’m so proud of you!
Christina says
I had baby # 5 (8 and under) 2 months ago and am just finally getting into the swing of life again. I haven’t tackled deep cleaning yet as I know it’ll put me over the edge, esp with Christmas coming, but I plan to in a few months. As I read your posts, it would be easy to be jealous of how much you accomplish….but then I remember how much you encourage people to stay within their season of life…and deep cleaning is not in my season of life for the moment! So, I will patiently wait until I get to that season in life and enjoy this season’s baby snuggles instead! Today I am batch cooking to help alleviate the stressful dinner time crunch…another of your tips 🙂
Jessica says
I’m so glad I read this reply. I was lamenting not having time to deep clean my bedroom. I have a 7 month old, a two year old and a four year old. I’m doing my best in little pockets of time, but to deep clean a whole room in a day is just not possible in this season of my life.
Dorcas says
Your house is looking great, and the stack of books looks awesome!
Carla says
I’m hoping cleaning happens. This morning has been full of laundry and grocery shopping!
Would love those books!
Kim Chmielewski says
You’ve totally inspired me to be a minimalist;)
Becky F says
Great job! I would love to win a pile of books 🙂
Terri D says
I love reading books and have begun deep cleaning my house this year too!
Stephanie @ Six Figures Under says
Glad you’re feeling better!! 🙂
martha says
Thank you for the great encouragement. I am so surprised about how empty or clean you’re finished bathroom cabinets are. Where do you store things? I could really use the books!
Stacia says
Congrats on having an organized house. I am on week 3 of 4 weeks to a more organized house. Great encouragement!
Susan Dougherty says
We had a rehearsal for our church Christmas program all morning, and now the whole family is pitching in to straighten up the house–before family nap time:)
Rosa says
Crystal, I think what I admire you most for, is how you have raised your children. Kind, helpful and happy. God bless you 🙂
Jessica says
Merry Christmas!
Tatum Buckholtz says
Looking great!
Katie holden says
Thanks for sharing the before and after photos, it really helps bring encouragement because you can almost feel the excitement that you are feeling wen you see a space al cleaned up and organized. Even though it’s not your own space, looking at the pictures makes it almost seem like such a simple task that it encourages us to go clean out/up our own cupboards or closets 🙂 I think the hardest part I deal with is getting rid of the ‘just in case’ items like another reader mentioned. Any suggestions or encouraging words? Thanks Crystal!
Kimberly says
Wow!–ANOTHER great giveaway! Thank you so much for the entry…and for showing us all these photos, including your cabinets’ “Before” pictures…that normalizes/validates things for many of us!!
Jennifer says
Would love a chance to win! Thanks!
Andrea says
I just came across your challenge this morning. Love the idea since we’re already into our holiday cleaning mode. Today’s challenge is our master bedroom which tends to be where we dump things and close the door on when guests come over.
Kara says
Thanks for all the great money saving tips and mom motivation.
Niki says
i found joining facebook swipswap sites has really helped me. When I see something in the house I no longer use, snap a picture and post and make some $ 🙂
Ebie says
Oh, Start looks interesting. thanks for the chance!
Carrie O. says
I’ve been wanting to read Start by John Acuff. Thanks for the giveaway!
Annaruth says
I would love to read these books. You always have great book suggestions.
lyss says
Would LOVE these to read and share!!!
Hannah Day says
Thanks for sharing your day with us! It definetly helps motivate me to get to work on my own home!
Lori says
This post is an inspiration!
Charity says
Keep up the good work
Katie says
My house needs a deep cleaning but I have also been sick! I could also really use tips on how to get my son to love reading… I love reading.
Katie
Deana says
Would love that big stack of books!
Sherri says
Thanks for the motivation this week. Our house looks better.
Denise G. says
I need to get some deep cleaning done this month.
Susan says
Doing the baseboards and floors today
Elaine says
Crystal, your blog is such a blessing and inspiration to me. Your cleaning posts have inspired me to get going on my even more cluttered home. It is taking me a long time, but my goal is to finish by the time I host Christmas Day at my home.
Sunni says
So, how is The Best Yes? I have not gotten it yet but it is on my to-do list as soon as I make it through the holidays.
Crystal Paine says
So far, I’m really finding it helpful and thought-provoking!
Juli RAILSBACK says
I’d love yo have some good reading material.
I was just saying to my husband I wonder what MSM does with her books when she’s done with them?!? Now I know.
Denise Roy says
Good job!
Denise says
Your cabinets look great!
Lana says
I would love to win the books!
Kathryn Smith says
Pick me, pick me!
Beth says
Some of those books are on my “to read” list!
Kathleen M says
Wow, what great books! I’d love to curl up this winter with a cup of tea and get to reading them!
Krista says
We love books too!
Kim D says
Would love to read some of these books!
Stephanie says
Those look like some great books!
CW says
Your house looks great! Thanks for the inspiration.
Whitney @ It's Gravy, Baby! says
I clicked over to your blog because I was in need of some inspiration- this post definitely did it. I need to tackle our bathroom cabinet like that!
angie slothower says
Awesome and encouraging posts this week! I especially love the day in the life! Wonderful stack of books I would love to use! Thanks!
Risha says
Your posts and pictures inspire me in two ways: To do a deep purge of all the stuff I’m hanging onto “just in case” and to get my kids more involved in cooking! My oldest two are the same ages as your youngest two, and I am not giving them enough opportunities to learn alongside me! Glad you are feeling better!
Mary says
Thanks for the entry (and yay! that you’re feeling better).
Jennifer Allen says
So much fun to see you accomplish your list. Love your stack of books! Great reads it looks like! Blessings!
Meg says
Thanks for the inspiration! I would love to win the books 🙂
Lisa says
They look fun to read!
Alison S. says
I have enjoyed these posts all week. Thanks so much!
Sarah says
Do you mind sharing what treadmill you use? Or any other MSM readers here? I’ve been on the search high and low for one that is good quality but not crazy expensive. We live in a small town, so I can’t take them for a ‘test run’ at any big box stores. Thanks in advance!
Crystal Paine says
My husband bought mine for me as a gift a few year ago and it wasn’t cheap (he’s the spender and he loves giving nice gifts — which I’m learning more and more to love and appreciate since he balances me out well!!). Maybe some other readers here have some suggestions?
melissa l. j. says
What a great giveaway! Thanks for your blog!
Dee says
Awesome books! Thx for the chance!
Dana says
Would love to win these!
Jaclyn says
You are inspiring. Would love these book.
Jennifer says
Crystal, I know you guys are minimalists but I still can’t fathom how you have so little in your closets and cabinets. I want a home like that too. What do you do with still the free samples you get through the mail, for example?
Crystal Paine says
I only sign up for those I know (or am really sure) we’ll use and then we use them pretty much right after they come or I put them in our sample tub in the bathroom closet to use on trips, etc.
kriswithmany says
I need to do a cleanup in my house. Too much stuff all over. The kids’ rooms are atrocious. Like I tell my kids, “Santa doesn’t come to a dirty house!” We’ll focus on the surface clean and see if we can get to the deep. :S
Tracy says
Great job on the cleaning!
Glad to hear that you are feeling much better!
Elaine says
Thanks for the chance. I would love to win a stack of books!
Christina Z says
I love to read! Some of those authors are wonderful!
Kimberly in NC says
Looks like a lot of books are leaving your house this month!
Michele says
I work 12 hr shifts. It can be challenging keeping up with household tasks. I spend my days off playing catch up.
Diana Burk says
I’ve been following these posts all week, and I really needed the motivation! And I would love these books!!
Monique says
I would love to win these books to read. I’m always looking for something to read. Thank you so much for sharing your treasure. I’m glad I’m not the only one who recycle books to good homes.
Esther says
So glad that Silas is such a helper! It’s great when the kids help *willingly*, and when they ask for more!
Maegen says
I have been working on cleaning too and it feels good to get things done that have been neglected for way too long.
Tina says
Great Job on the cleaning. I am doing different deep clean projects than you but this was a really good idea tackle before Christmas.
Samantha says
That steak of books looked fabulous! And glad you are feeling better!
KristenW says
Would love to win the books!
Christy says
What a fun idea 🙂
Jessica Norris says
Aww, I love how your little ones help out so much! I really need to do a better job of teaching the kids how to cook and do other chores. The duffle bag made me laugh – I lived out of my vacation duffle bag for a while too!
Abby Larsen says
Thank you for all of your posts.
Erica Serna says
When I saw the duffle bag it gave me a good laugh because I also have an unpacked duffle in my laundry room cupboard since a trip we took to Chicago in August but it been unpacked and put away now thanks for reminding me that we can’t all be perfect
Crystal Paine says
Woohoo! Way to go on unpacking that August suitcase, too! It feels so good, doesn’t it?
Rachel says
Haha love the duffel bag. Truth be told, I have one I basically never full unpack because I’m using it often… I just rotate out clothes each time. Thanks for offering more books, I see some I’d love to win for myself and some to share!
Erin K. says
I would love to have some new books to read. 🙂
Julie says
Thanks!
Shannon says
I love reading these posts every day!
Jennifer O says
I love how real you are. That is motivating for me.
Karen says
There are some really neat looking books in this stack!
Susie says
I’d love to win, too!
Jennifer Brees says
I love to read, especially over Christmas break!
Julie Waldron says
I would love to win this for my almost 19 year old daughter. She loves to read!!! Merry Christmas to you & your family.
Jenny says
I would especially love to read your books and Dave Ramsey’s.
Meghan says
How much Christmas decorating do you do?
Crystal Paine says
It depends upon the year. Sometimes we do quite a bit (like last year) — including putting up lights outside, etc. This year, we’ve only done a little because I’ve only done what our kids have asked to. I decided to just keep it simple and focus on what’s important to them this year.
KMC says
Wow, that looks like a great stack of books! I’d love to win them. I’ve never been able to purchase any of your books and my library doesn’t carry them, so that would be really exciting to get to read those. My husband and I are switching to a cash only budget in January, so I’d especially love the Dave Ramsey book took. Happy Holidays to you and your family.
chantel says
Today I am going to finish all Christmas shopping. I know what I am going to buy but haven’t actually went out and got the items.
Amber says
I have been running every single day since a couple of weeks ago and my house has been suffering, so stumbling on this challenge has motivated me! I would love to win these books. They’ll keep me busy in the New year while sitting and nursing my newest baby coming (#6!)
Janae' Cook says
Books are like gold to me. Would really enjoy winning! Thank you for your honest cleaning pictures, it’s nice to know I am not the only one:) Your blog is always inspiring.
Brianna K says
I started the challenge on Monday, and it felt so great to have that closet organized! Then the rest of the week slipped by…starting again this Monday!
I would LOVE to win those books! I noticed a Linda Dillow book–I’m reading “What’s It Like to be Married to Me” right now, and I know Id enjoy another by her.
Becca h says
would love to win!
Elizabeth jones says
I actually feel a little caught up. I cleaned up yesterday. All that’s left today is two bathrooms and a ridiculous amount of laundry to fold. :/ thanks for the chance to win!
Yolanda M. says
Today’s task: declutter rooms downstairs while kids are out of the house.
Darcy Hicks says
Would love this stack of books!!
Amy says
Nice stack of books! Saving deep cleaning until after holidays!
Pam says
Not much cleaning, but I am planning to knock some out today!
Melissa says
Didn’t feel good today so no deep cleaning got done. Could have used some new books to read through the day!!
Shari says
oh goodies!!! I’d love to sit and read again. Life’s so crazy, I miss reading and its a goal of mine in the new year.
Vicky Snyder says
Love to read!
Amy l says
Would love these books! Thank you so much!
Manette Gutterman says
This mom deserves a reading break and a birthday gift!!
Lori Moats says
would love to read your stack of books. I could even send you a stack because I have some good books I have held on to, but need to let go. Thanks for great post. I am not getting much organizing/cleaning done this month, but I am going to start strong in 2015!
Sara Reich says
Looks like some great books! Was able to go through old toys and homeschooling books that I no longer need. Also tackled one bathroom
Jana says
I love your honesty with all the cleaning and what works and doesn’t! I have tried this week making lists and keeping to them and its worked about 75% of the time. At least I feel like I’m being more productive but its a slow progression.
Jennifer says
Merry Christmas! I would love to be the winner of these books! Yay!
Beth says
Not much cleaning but a little baking…cinnamon rolls and handing out Christmas goodies! Books look great!
Jessica Nirri says
I would love the books ! I’m an avid reader and always run out of books to read in home.. Lol
I need to deep clean as well but no motivation at all … For many reasons.. But winning these books would lift my spirits !
Maria Constantino says
I would love to win these books!
Melissa says
Today I deep cleaned the garage! Yuck!
Jessica W says
I put my very active 10 month old son in a carrier so I could make a dent cleaning off the mountain of clutter on our kitchen table. A little bit of cleaning everyday goes a long way!
Laura says
Your pictures inspire me to keep minimizing my household!
Hope says
Super motivated to tidy, clean, and purge! I worked on the cupboard with baking and pantry items. Tossed junk and organized! So pleasant to open the cupboard doors! I also took everything out of our bedroom that doesn’t belong. Why does our room become the dead end for so many odds and ends? Well, they are being dealt with! Yay!
Joanna Mattas says
Glad you are feeling better, and great job on the cleaning this week! Thanks for the chance to win the books!
Jen D says
My house could use some deep cleaning too. Maybe I’ll tackle under my bathroom sink.
Sara says
books… books… books… 🙂
Nancy stoltzfus says
We just finished Financial Peace and are on a Christmas budget.The book START is on my list for husband.Maybe this is why I didn’t order it yet. Actually I was waiting to see if I can find it cheap somewhere.Anyway,I would love this!
Mandi says
Merry Christmas!
Kelli says
Thanks for the chance to win.
sousou says
Thanks for the opportunity to win
Carrie says
I am working my way through a mountain of laundry! Then on to the next thing… 🙂
Pam says
I would LOVE those books!! Would be a great way to start my New Year’s resolution to read more!
Lynn L says
Just wondering, even with the choice living with minimal items, how is it that your under the bathroom sink can look down right bare? I’m just curious, as my bathroom is always overflowing with stuff even when I try to downsize… Don’t you keep some medical supplies and bathroom essentials (shampoo, conditioner, styling products, etc) and if so where do you keep them if not in the bathroom? I’m drawn to your minimal lifestyle but the mother in me says, keep it, with a family, you might need it. What’s your strategy?
Crystal Paine says
We also have a closet in the bathroom where we store things like shampoos, etc. I had hoped to get to it yesterday, but didn’t. So hopefully that will happen sometime in the next few weeks!
judy says
you’ve done great!
i would love them! thanks for offering!
Laura Rogers says
I agree – having things organized makes me feel so much calmer in general! And makes things run much smoother.
Gail says
Did some deep cleaning a week ago, so now working to maintain! Laundry, dishes, Christmas present wrapping, holiday party….all on the list today 🙂
Sweta says
I’d love to win thanks for the chance.
Brooke says
Great stack of books!
Monique says
I would love these 🙂
Melissa says
I’d love to win! I’ve been wanting to learn more about Dave Ramsey’s system and see one of his books there!
tracy says
I want these books! 🙂
Andrea says
Great stack of books!
Angela Johnnides says
What a great stack to have! I’m crossing my fingers and toes!! 😉
Lisa says
No cleaning. Just sickness.
Paula says
i would love to read these! I need to get my household finances in order and have been struggling with ingratitude lately.
julie says
I’m trying to find homes for the appreciated but huge supply of Christmas projects coming home daily with my kids. Ceramic angels, Christmas bracelets, a reindeer terra cotta pot, coffee liner angels, a clay manger scene…. I’m trying to balance tidiness with Christmas stuff and am having a hard time. I am sitting to read this and eat my banana, then it’s back to it. Also, I think I vacuumed up a few more Lego pieces 🙁
Heart and Haven says
sounds like great Christmas presents for family members? 😉
Nancy says
If you keep chopping, eventually the woodpile will get smaller. Pretty big “woodpile” at my house presently!
Michelle says
I would love some new books to read!
melanie says
I’d love to win!!! Especially the gratitude journal!
Laurie says
Love your blog. Sweet, simple and so relatable. Thanks for the inspiration.
Lori says
A great stack of books, most of them are on my “to read” list.
Jacqueline says
My laundry is completely caught up! It feels so good. Thanks for the opportunity to win some great books.
Sharon says
Thank you for the chance to win some great books!
Cambria says
Nothing too deep yesterday but I did get some of our closet purged, picked up our bedroom & did a few loads of laundry – so still a productive day 🙂
Karyn Nixon says
No cleaning at our house today except for the mountains of laundry! 🙂
Ginger Adams says
I would love to win! A good book is a good stress reliever!
Melissa says
Thank you for the giveaway, it would be so nice to read some of these!
Krissy says
I’m actually working on my cleaning today. Hope to get the carpet cleaned as well as put away a mountain of laundry. Those books look awesome!
Mee Jean says
Love to win!
Patty says
What a great selection of books! I’d love to win!! I entered up above, but when I try putting in my URL, it keeps telling me that I need a ' in the URL; no matter how many times I redo it, it still won’t work. Can you still enter me in if I give u my info here?
[email protected]
http://Graceunending.net
Merry Christmas!
Crystal Paine says
I think I got it added correctly. Is it showing up for you? So sorry for the issues! I have no idea what that was about!
Amy Kuestersteffen says
You are such an inspiration!!! Love all your posts!!!
Kat H says
Would love to win these!
Nicole T says
I so wish I had your purging gene! I would love a fresh start this new year with lots of inspiring books, please!
Bernadette says
Thank you for this chance to win!
Rebekah says
I would love them!
MK says
Looks like a great stack of books! No deep cleaning, but I moved a mountain of dishes and feel better for it!
louise b says
relax with a book
reagan law says
I would love to win these books!
Jenn in Indiana says
Glad you got so much done!
Terry C says
I am starting in my bedroom today. 🙂 Would love to read those books.
Laura says
I’d love to win 🙂
Rhonda B says
Worked really hard gutting closets last week. Now to finish!
Liz says
My family is entering a new phase of life and each and every one of these books look like the perfect resources!
Kelly C says
Always love your book recommendations. Would love to win that stack of books!
Megan N. says
I see lots of titles on my reading list!
Amanda Peterson says
Thanks for your honest posts! …and for being willing to share your books with your readers.
Donna says
Would love to win a stack of books.
Amy Poller says
Oh my where do you keep all of your stuff? With clean cabinets like those I like to imagine you have a bottomless Mary Poppins bag that holds all the clutter.
Karen says
Those books look amazing!
Elizabeth says
Another great job cleaning and another great giveaway!
Margaret B says
What was the drink in the picture for your devotional reading?
Crystal Paine says
The Good Girl Moonshine — ice, water, apple cider vinegar, ginger, and stevia. So refreshing and good for you!
Elisa says
Would love to read some of those titles!
Emily Fife says
Love some reading books.
Connie Fink says
Am an avid reader, would love to add these to my collection.
Lora says
I’m like your daughter whom you often find with her nose stuck in books!
Andrea says
Our bathroom looks amazing, the rest of what I wanted to do today will wait I have a nap to take to be well rested fir a Christmas party tonight.
leann says
Would love to win….thanks for inspiring me to get moving and get some decluttering done before Christmas!
Maggy Roof says
I would love to read these books as I get ready to plan our 2015 budget!
Krista says
I would love some new books to read over Christmas break!
I never thought of putting the bathroom trash can under the sink. We have tiny bathrooms, and that is a great idea. Now I have to clean out under the sink better. Great inspiration to get rid of stuff and make space. Thanks!
Melissa says
It looks amazing! And I did this challenge and feel great about my progress!
Tammy L says
Looks like some great books!!! Glad you are feeling better!
Jerrianne says
My goal for 2015 is to read more. I would love to win these books.
Jacki says
I caught up on cleaning my beautiful gas stove. Thanks for the book giveaway!
Emily says
Now I’m inspired to get busy tackling some projects around my house! And I would love to win those books – they look wonderful!
Jenny M says
I didn’t do any cleaning yesterday because I had a full day at work. But I was blessed to come home and find my husband had tackled the laundry and made a really nice dinner! Success 🙂
Marsha says
I would love them! We just went from two incomes to one so that I can stay home with our infant son. I can use all the budgeting tips I can get. =)
Denise says
Love to read! Would love to win! Thanks!
sarah says
I would love to win some good books for my 2015 reading list.
Jennifer says
I’d love to win these books. I would like to start reading more books this year and this would be a great way to start.
Raquel Evans says
Amazing how all the books in that stack either I would read, or I know someone who would really enjoy reading them. 🙂
Raven Cruz says
I would love these books because I love to read. I don’t have a Dave Ramsey book. I checked an old one out at the library and have been trying to implement his tips. 3 bills paid off so far!
Jessica says
What a great give away idea! One that can easily be paid forward by kids and adults!!
Melissa Bergstrom says
I’d love to win this. Just told my husband that I need to get some books, it’s been a while since I’ve read anything.
Erin @ My Mommy World says
I worked on decluttering my kitchen cabinets this week…it feels so good to have organized cabinets! I found some food that had expired in 2012, so that tells you how long it had been since my last decluttering session 😉
Jennie Petersen says
Would love to win!
Kelly Johnson says
I would love to win the stack of books!
kim wersman says
I would love to win!
Amy Dunn says
Would love to win. Thanks for the inspiration!!
Steph says
i would love to win! Thanks for encouraging others!
Sindy says
I love to see I’m not the only one who needs to deep clean some areas in the house. Glad you are doing better! I SO love your posts!
Bethany Davis says
You always have great book ideas!!
Jennifer says
Thanks for the inspiration to deep clean before Christmas!
Wende Hinrichs says
Love this idea! I’m always giving away books that have impacted my life, as well. Will be sure to pay it forward if I’m lucky enough to win these.
Jamie says
good job!!!!!!!!
Laura says
Thanks for the chance!
Kori says
I’m always looking for good books.
Shannon says
I’d love to win these books. I could use some encouraging reading.
Sara says
Such a nice offer, I’d love to win these books! I have one of your books in my wish list for Christmas this year.
Kim says
Such cute kids! As an avid reader I love seeing your daughter with a book!
Melissa says
Would love to win!
Laura Davenport says
Thanks for doing this. And offering prizes that are helpful! Would live to win those books!
Tina says
Would love these
Jill says
You are such an inspiration to others. Thank you for sharing your money saving tips and decluttering/organization info. I would love to win the books! I’m familiar with some of the titles and have been wanting to read them.
Barb says
Who doesn’t love more books?!? I would love to!! Especially that gratitude journal! I think it would be great for our family time each night!!!
Maira says
Going to try my luck.
Shannon says
Thank you for the motivation this week!
Valerie Rose says
ive been working on cleaning up and organizing every room of this house! Just getting a little bit done but it feels good to not walk by and see that pile of stuff, again!
Allison herod says
I’m cleaning and organizing today, my family comes to see our new rental tomorrow and after moving, finding out I was pregnant with our 4th baby, and starting a new full time job all in two weeks time I’ve had very little time to get my house in order..so my goal today is to get it presentable to show to friends and family..wish me luck. I would love these books I have your book on the kindle and would love a Dave Ramsey book of my own!
Maple Corea says
Hope I can win this time!
KenzieH says
I love books & the rewards of deep cleaning!
Wendy says
I would love to win your stack of books. It would be my Christmas present! Love this blog, has helped me tremendously!
Merry Christmas!
Kelly says
Glad you’re feeling better! I’d love to read those books!
Tina goins says
Great giveaway!
Jeni says
I see a few Christmas gifts in that stack 🙂
Gwen says
Such an awesome gift! I really need to read more.
Katherine Lewis says
I cleaned out the pantry today. I had been putting it off for a few weeks.
Danielle young says
oooh what an awesome giveaway! Am I entering in time?
Brittany says
Your clean house is inspiring! 🙂
Betsy says
Would love to win those books!
deborah says
There’s several books peeking out of that pile that I’d love to win! What a fun idea!
And your organization looks great. It always feels good to get things done and straightened up.
Melody says
I would love to win! Thanks for the chance!
amy says
I’d so love to read Start and some of these other books!
Katie says
I would love to win! Some of those books are ones I have been wanting to read. Glad you are feeling better!
Michelle says
I would love to be able to read all of those wonderful books! Good job on the cleaning.
Carly says
I have really enjoyed this challenge and reading about your progress. I only really got some things done Monday, but I figure it was more than I would have without reading this! 🙂 Hopefully, I can do a bit today after work. Thanks so much and happy weekend!
Karen says
I would love to read all these books then pass them on!! so awesome!!
kendra says
I’d love the books!
Chrysti says
I’d love to win these! Some of those titles have been on my to-read list for a while now!
Laurie says
I would love to win these! Thanks for the giveaway!
Rachel says
Those look like wonderful books! Would enjoy reading them and learning from them! I appreciate all of your posts they are very inspiring and encouraging!
Karen T. says
Thanks for sharing your life with us. Your posts really motivate me to get in gear!
Michele Fowler says
I definitely need to do some deep cleaning, and we have only lived here since July. So sad!
I would love to win the give away too. 🙂
Reva says
Look like good books to read
Casey says
I would love to read those books!
Susan. Goss says
I would LOVE to win these books!!!
Emily Nielsen says
Looks like a great stack of books!
Tara H says
I’d love to win these!
Bethany says
Some of theses books I have been wanting to read!
Dee Dee Pennington says
Wow! Winning these books would be amazing!!!
Katie says
Another great stack of books. Thanks for this series, inspiring.
Jennifer says
i am always writing down your book titles these would be great additions! Thank you for offering the chance to win to your readers!
Ashli says
I’d love to win these! Looking forward to a major de clutter after the holidays!
Erica Fisher says
I would live to win these books! I especially want to read your first book, Dave Ramsey’s, and the Blogging one. They are actually on my book wish list, but I only let myself but two books a month and this month I’ve already bought your gratitude journal and Say Goodbye to Survival Mode. I also give one away each month to our book swap at work… This is the only version of cleaning I like:)
Ivy Berres says
I would love to win these books! They all look like great reads and I’ve been looking at getting the gratitude journal, but it’s always sold out!!
laura says
I would love to win!
louise b says
I would love to be blessed by these books.
Kasey says
You have been a very busy lady! Books are always good.
Tammy says
Thanks for the chance to win!
Erin H says
Love to read!
Sheri says
I love that you are open to share your before and after photos. Thanks for sharing!
Andrea says
Thanks for being encouraging and real. Looks great. I’d love to win the books, I saw a few titles in there that I have been wanting to read.
Lindsay says
I’d love these books!
karen says
I’ve been working hard this morning. Thanks for the inspiration. I would love to read those books.
Theresa says
It does feel good to get everything put in its right place! What a great stack of books! I’d love to win them!
Laura says
We have a babysitter coming tonight–that definitely motivates me to clean, hah!
Beth S. says
Looks like a great stack of books! Thanks
Kellie says
I would love to win the books.
anne b says
Had to work-so cleaning will happen saturday
Kandee says
Looks like some good reading. Great giveaway!
Lynn says
Working on kids.room before. Christmas!
Sarah says
Everything is looking so GOOD in your house! Way to go! After Christmas I think I need to follow your example and tackle some big piles of things in some of my work areas! 🙂
I’d love to win those books! Some I would keep, and some I would pass on to friends who would enjoy them.
Nikki says
That looks like a great stack of books! I would love to win them!
Helen Ruth Patrick says
I would love to win these books!
Kimmie says
Would love to win these books:-) thanks so much for doing a “clean house for Christmas” posts everyday this week- really motivated me!!!!
Kelly S says
Glad you are feeling better! I threw in the towel when I got a cold, but I think I will pick back up next week.
Corey Lesko says
These are awesome giveaways thank you!
Pam says
I would love to read those books!
Julie says
I can’t wait to start deep cleaning in January. I’d love to win some books!
Jen says
Seems like all week the unexpected has interfered with my to do list. Yesterday was a friend and her kids stopping by for a few hours. But that was way more encouraging than a checked off list, so I’m thankful!
Melissa says
I love how you offer to giveaway your books. They all look so good (especially “Start” by John Acuff!) and you are so generous! 🙂
Chasidy says
i didn’t join the challenge but I enjoyed residing about it and plan to do it soon! I would love to win the stack of books! 🙂
Julie says
I just moved into a new house, and the previous owners definitely avoided deep cleaning. It’s taking a long time to clean, but everything looking and smelling so fresh has been such a good feeling! (Sure would love those books to read in my newly cleaned house. 🙂 )
Carla says
I am thankful you are better, and love seeing the pictures and hearing about your day. I would love to win the books. It would really be fun!
Megan says
Thanks for the cleaning inspiration!
Ruth says
I cleaned the bathrooms and vacuumed the living room. I met my cleaning goals for yesterday. It felt very good.
Ali says
I didn’t even know that you were doing this challenge this week. This week turned out to be my deep clean week too.
Bonnie says
Books, books, books…never enough of them! 🙂
Sarah Sudduth says
I would love to read these books!
Christina says
Enjoy the journey, that’s my motto and boy would these reads help me do that my fullest! I LOVE reading- EVERYTHING! I would enjoy reading any and all of those and pass them on when I am finished! 🙂
Kelly says
I’d love to read these books (although reading books is sometimes what keeps me from cleaning my house!!). 🙂
Melanie B says
I’d still love that journal of yours-just in time for the New Year!
Judy says
I love seeing the projects you complete. Motivates me to tackle some more clutter and cleaning before Christmas.
Sara R says
I am always looking for new books. I love to read! Also these posts are so inspiring, you are getting me to look at what I can do here.
Lisa Mathews says
please pick me:)
Kristi Wilson says
Headed to my films for the weekend but cleaning out a bathroom drawer while blow drying my hair.
Beth says
My goal is to have one bag to take to the thrift store every week. It feels so good to get rid of STUFF after years of hanging on to everything!
Mandy P says
Wow Silas…such a good helper!
Jane Nahgahgwon says
I am always amazed at how much weight I feel is lifted off my shoulders when I clean and get rid of clutter.
Sarah Hernandez says
I love books. I love how motivated you are. How do you stay so motivated? I can do good for three weeks and then exhausted the next week.
Tanya says
I’m not a deep cleaner either but luckily I married one!
Carly Ceccrelli says
Great work! Can’t wait
Until I get the chance to clean!!!!
rebecca says
You have inspired me to get busy and get some rooms organized in my house in time for the holidays. I just began maternity leave so I am trying to make room for newborn and all that “comes with them.”. 🙂
Mona says
Looks like a great stack of books to read!
Tanya C. says
My husband cleaned the entire basement while I worked today! I was able to tackle the dining room and some laundry after dinner.
tera Andrecht says
I would love to win.
sarah says
It’s amazing how good it feels to be better after being sick!
Michelle F. says
Would love some new books and the blessing journal!
Daphne Murray says
I did NO cleaning yesterday but instead made a bigger mess from crafts that involve glitter. I’ll get to the cleaning today 🙂 Thanks for this great giveaway!!
Beth says
I need to deep clean at my house!! I love clean and clutter free spaces.
Misty N. says
Yeah! More books!
Jessie says
I would love to win those books!
Judy Clear says
This is another great grouping of books – I’d love to win them!
Erin R. says
These books look great to help kick off a new year!
Brooke B says
Wow, there are so many books in this stack that I would LOVE to read. 🙂 Thanks for the opportunity.
Lee Privette says
I have a few more spaces that need to be gone through, but I think I can make it for Christmas.
Michelle says
Money Saving Mom is my favorite place to be online! Just this week, I tried the chocolate banana muffins you posted about and the sloppy joe casserole! I have some great free ebooks too, thanks to you, including an Advent devotional my husband and I are both reading. The cleaning, I am working on. It can be overwhelming sometimes, like shoveling the walk while there is still snow coming down! But each day, we keep trying! Thanks for the encouragement and the fun you post on your site, Crystal! <3
Sandi says
oh boy, do I need to do some deep cleaning! Thanks for the inspiration.
Ashley says
I love a good book!
Michelle Kennedy says
Thanks for sharing your day. Glad you are feeling better. I love books. Would love the chance to read those you are giving away and also your Choose Gratitude Blessing Journal looks like fun!
B Landis says
Loving these giveaways!
Sara says
I would love to win those books!
christina says
I feel inspired to clean before the holidays now! Thank you! I love books!
Kathy says
Looks good Crystal !! Thanks for the motivation!
Mandy g says
Would love to win!
Christie says
We moved in April and our third bedroom is still a dumping ground of boxes. Need to tackle them asap
Stephanie says
What a great cleaning week! And those books would be great when my guy wakes me up at dawn not to do anything just to be with him while he plays:)
Laura Visser says
I got around to cleaning out my microwave and stovetop. I have been doing a lot of cooking and it was showing!
Katherine says
I pulled several tee shirts out of the dresser that I never wear.
Jo Hast says
The books look great!
Eunice says
Would love to read those books!!
Amy says
Thank you for always sharing great tips and motivation! I love to save money 🙂
Valerie says
I would love to win these books!
NeeNah B says
First I wanted to say Thank You for your openness on your blog…It is very inspirational. And I love the books in this giveaway!!! The three I would enjoy first…Saying Goodbye to Survival Mode, Loving the Little Years and Complete Guide to Money.
Amanda says
I wiped out my Lazy Susan yesterday. Thanks for the motivation! I love how the accumulation of just 15-20 minutes a day can make a big difference in my home!
Laura in NC says
Great stack of books!
Jill says
I would love to win these books and share them with my church.
Danielle says
I’d love to win those books!
Leah says
I was a little behind, so I cleaned out my kitchen/fridge yesterday. Ew!
Katie says
What wonderful books; I would love to win them.
Sarah M. says
I’m in the thick of it–5 kids aged 7 and under, homeschooling, and managing our chimney business. I don’t deep clean much these days. I feel like I’m doing well if I keep up with laundry, everyone is fed, and I sweep and vacuum as needed! Ha. I’d love to win the books as I’ve been wanting to read several of them. Thank you for offering them; may they be a blessing to whomever wins. Merry Christmas, dear sister!
Kathryne says
Great job getting so much cleaned this week!
Theresa Walker says
I would love to win this stash of books (and yours of course too!). Thanks for being real with your cleaning!!!
Laura says
I love these book giveaways from your own library, thank you!
Kelly says
I did not get the cleaning done this week that I had planned to! (Thanks for the opportunity to win the books!)
Robin Y says
You’ve inspired me to let my 5 year old have a little more involvement in the kitchen. Awesome job, Silas!
Melissa says
Yeah ! I did a quick clean today! 🙂
Brett Marie says
Thanks for keeping it real & not pretending everything is always all together and organized. Awesome giveaway 🙂
Rachel says
I’d love to win those!! Thanks so much!
Christina says
These titles look so good! Would love to win!
Melyssa Lee says
Love to win these! Kudos to you for all the cleaning you’re doing!
jeannie says
I was not able to get much done yesterday but I did get one drawer all cleaned out and some old newspapers thrown away.
Kellie says
Looking good!!! I wish I had a bathroom sink cabinet, I only have a pedastool sink 🙁 lack of storage in that area
Stacey says
Loving the cleaning posts!
Raina says
I love books!
Nicole says
Great job this week!
Dawn says
I usually keep up a minor clean around the house (looks good enough where I wouldn’t be horribly embarrassed if someone came into my house) but I still need to tackle some areas like my closets that are terrifying. Your cleaning is inspiring but I think I’ll still put those closets off until next year. I don’t want to get buried under a pile of junk before Christmas arrives!
Laurie says
Would love to win the stack of books. Thanks
Rachel says
I love reading your blog, and your giveaways are always so generous! Thanks!
Cj Strong says
1 set of bathroom cupboards/drawers tackled, 3 to go….
judith says
always up for more books. 🙂
Mary Jo says
Another nice looking stack of books!
Karie says
I need to get busy cleaning
Erin says
Would love to win these books! Thank you so much for the chance 🙂
Emily says
I love to see your son helping (happily) & your daughter busy reading! Both are goals of mine! I want to raise willing helpers. And readers too!
melissa says
Yes, these little jobs that glare at us n loom bigger than they really are… Thx for the inspiration to get a move on them n tackle them!
Susan says
I absolutely love your blog! I have learned so much from you! Awesome give-away!!
Jen Lloyd says
I did NOT know your book had an audio version! Awesome!
Jo says
Thanks fOr your post, I would love to win these books. 🙂
Melissa says
Have a wonderful weekend enjoying your clean house!
Marie McVay says
would love to read and share these books with my mom who loves to read..
Jessica says
Great to see that you’ve passed on your love for reading to your daughter! Inspirational
Betsy says
This would be fun to win. Thanks!
Jessi Fearon (@TheBudgetMama) says
I need to do a serious deep clean around our home. I’ve been slowly working through our cabinets in the kitchen to get them back to their original organized state. Great job and love seeing how your kiddos help out! 🙂
Jennifer Jackson says
You are so motivating! Thank you for sharing this challenge! I worked on our bedroom last night, as it is always neglected. I will finish it today. Would love to win!
Mary Ann says
I’d love to win those books. I see several that would make some nice gifts!
Miranda says
Good job! I need to do some declutterung and just need to devote time to doing it!
Jonathan says
Great stack of books today!
Tracy B. says
Would love to win! 🙂
Maureen Polderman says
Love this! I hope someone puts it to good use….I am an avid reader, but with 3 kids under 5 (including my 5 month old!) I feel like my reading days are over!! Or at least shortened to a paragraph every three days, HA! Thew deep cleaning rarely gets done here either…just this stage of life…before o know it I’ll be organizing closets and reading books, but for now I try to remember to put my little people over my little projects and just enjoy these days that are going so quickly!!
Cayla says
Would love some new books to read!
Rose says
Cant wait for the days off Ill have the next few weeks to tackle some of these jobs!! Since starting to work full time 7-4 Mon-Thurs and 7-12:30 Fridays, my housework has suffered considerably : (
shannon harbison says
I am sure I could make use of the books……
Lisa Hurst says
I would love this stack for read for the new year!
Busy Mama says
My goal has more to do with getting Christmas cards in the mail. When my family heads out this afternoon (hopefully with the stack of cards ready to take to the post office!), I will be able to get some more cleaning done.
Robin Lynch says
Great job this week! You he been a great inspiration. Thank you!!!
Lisa DeCourcey says
Great stack of books! And thank you for the encouragement to keep my home clean and organized, even during the holiday rush.
Michelle says
I am working on the cleaning but especially as a mom with an outside job, I sometimes feel overwhelmed, like shoveling the sidewalk while it is still snowing. I know it is a process, but you do all the laundry and then you realize your family is wearing a load of clothes. You clean the kitchen and then it is time to eat! My standards are not super high, either. 🙂 (I remind myself I am thankful for a healthy family and ample grocery budget.) I look forward to your posts every day! Thanks to you Crystal, I have a bunch of free eBooks to read, including an advent devotional my husband and I are both enjoying. This week, I made the chocolate banana muffins and the sloppy joe casserole you posted about. MSM is my favorite place to visit online! 🙂 Merry Christmas! 🙂
Crystal Paine says
Thanks so much for your kind words! {hugs!}
Sarah says
Those books look great! This week I’ve just been trying to get caught up on laundry…but I did organize my kids drawer of drinking cups. Got rid of many we didn’t need!
Ashley says
I would love this!
Tammy says
I would love to have these books
Shana says
I haven’t felt well this week, so I’m behind on my daily cleaning. I had planned to catch up on Friday, but then my husband unexpectedly had the day off. He’s been working long hours 6 or 7 days a week. So I was happy to spend some time with him instead and let the cleaning wait one more day!
Rhianna says
Thank you for sharing the photos and showing me that you’re not Superwoman. Makes me feel better about my non-Superwoman days. Love your blog!
Courtney says
Thanks for your encouragement to “moms of Littles” need that! Enjoy the blog – so helpful!
Yen says
Thanks for the opportunity! 🙂
Tara says
I’d love to hear how you read aloud at meals. Does that mean you read while the family eats and then you eat last or later? Sounds like a great thing I’d love to try but am curious about the logistics of it. Thanks!
Heather says
I love this post! I always feel more grounded and centered when my house is clean and decluttered. I feel like I have more time to crochet, play games with my kids, and read! Thank you for running such a great giveaway!
Kristan says
I didn’t get much of any cleaning done this week, but this weekend when my husband is home is another chance. Had a lot of good quality time with the kiddos at least!
Lanna says
Unfortunately I didn’t clean, other than hubby helping me folks four loads of sheets to put away after kids wake up in the morning (which is still pretty awesome). I went out to an ornament exchange with some friends tonight after also being sick and cooped up in the house for a few days.
shirley says
I am trying to clean at least 1 drawer or cupboard each day, and hope to keep them organized.
Beth says
What a fun week! Thanks for allowing us to journey with you! We all ended up in better place than when we began the week!
Heather says
I’d love these books!
Lyn says
Shooting for a productive weekend at home…planning to turn on some good music, including holiday tunes, and hopefully get motivated!
Tanna says
With as many kiddos as I have I never stop cleaning, its just delaying the inevitable, so I may as well Eat That Frog! lol. Would love to get some new books! Thanks for the chance!
Su says
I did better today. I cleaned the bathrooms and vac and dusted the main areas. Thank you for the giveaway.
Dianna Annette says
Didn’t get.much done but I did get to clean and vacuume under the dogs bed (it’s an elevated one)… Oh My Grapes there was a whole not her dog under there…. the hair was crazy, and it mush of cushioned the dogs as.they layed.on the bed….. 😉
Jonelle says
Books are so pretty! I love your stack. I have START, but have never started it! If I win, I still start by giving that to someone who needs it. 🙂 Merry Christmas!
Nikki B says
It’s more than coincidence that I started following the blog and Facebook posts this year. It has been filled with financial issues that were not under our control due to my health. I realized after paying attention to your work that we can get by on so much less than we thought! I hope next year brings even more information, grace, and peace as my family adapts to these major changes. Blessings to your family this Christmas. <3
Melissa says
So glad I’m not the only one that doesn’t unpack!
Lynda West says
There are some books in that stack that have been on my list to read for a while. I’d love them!
Kathleen says
I did some surface cleaning today.
Tonya says
Thanks for the awesome giveaway! I hope you and your family have a wonderful Christmas!
Lisa Kuo says
Love to win those books 🙂
Meg says
Im starting my five day clean today while my two oldest are off with grandparents! Hope I can conquer a bunch, you’re an inspiration!
Laura J says
What a great stack of books!
Sara Truax says
Nice collection of books.
Tia Robertson says
I WISH my camera worked to prove to you that your house is in NO WAY CLOSE to being the worst Crystal!!! My husband came home from work tonight and actually volunteered to help me do all of the laundry (which took 9 loads to do, and we still have three to go- I was in no way slacking on the task, but I hate folding, and he hates it too, so most of it ends up on the floor or stays in the dryer, and gets re-washed and re-washed (and re-washed) again every week)! This normally wouldn’t be much of a help, but HE NEVER helps with housework (even the garage is ‘my job’ to clean and organize)! He must have been sick of it! The bathrooms are probably worse (I wouldn’t know, we only use one, the kids use the other three!) I stocked up on Clorox wipes for the weekend… Wish me luck!
Rachel Worley says
Love all the cleaning! Merry Christmas!
Lucy says
The books look awesome. I would love to win them!
Tanya says
What a great giveaway! Thanks for offering it!
Charlene says
I meant to get to my bathroom doors and cabinets this week, but it just didn’t happen–yours look so nice and organized!
Kandace says
I’d love to win those books, especially Ruth Soukup’s book. I just preordered her new one!
Lauren L says
My cleaning today was non-existent. For too long I have tried to be and do so much — and so too many areas of my life have suffered. I am in desperate need of simplifying and and organizing my life better. These books would surely help me go in that direction! I have 6 kids, and I would love to teach them a better way than what they have seen for too long — a too-busy, stressed out mother!! Thanks for all the fun giveaways this week.
Uma says
Thanks for the inspiration Crystal. I joined you for the challenge and my house looks much cleaner now. Today I cleaned the office room and my handbag (took a easier job due to busy schedule)
Shannon says
Thanks for the inspiration and chance to win!
Anna says
Thanks for encouraging us with your clean up!
Meghan Bergunzi says
Great list of books again!
I need to clean underneath of my bathroom sinks also. I have been doing a lot of coupon shopping lately and have acquired quite a collection under my sinks. I think I might make this a weekend project.
Kristin A. says
Way to go with your cleaning and organizing! Thanks for the chance to win!
robyn says
i’m so hoping i win one of these stacks of books!
Jen Arnold says
Thank you for inspiring me to declutter!! I made it through one of my boys dressers! Now he can wear clothes that actually fit him and aren’t two sizes too small!!
Pamela J says
Thanks for the chance to win some great books! Love these peeks into your blessed life.
Lynora says
thank you for the motivation this week! I didn’t have major projects to tackle, but I needed to keep up which is hard this time of year. Needless to say it was a productive week.
Crystal says
Love the blog. Thank you
Michele says
I got my cleaning done today after the kids went to bed. The only problem with that is I tend to stay up too late! 🙂
Denise says
We did some picking up tonight and my husband hung some pictures…he is going to clean more tomorrow while I’m at work and then we are having friends over! Love finally owning our own home and being able to do this!
Heart and Haven says
I got the laundry caught up on & put away, kitchen cleaned tonight, & downstairs vacuumed. (will have to mop tile floors & vacuum upstairs tomorrow)
While the kids were watching Christmas movies after dinner, I got the playroom thoroughly cleaned and went through every single basket of toys & shelves of books & puzzles! Got rid of 2 boxes of toys/books they no longer play with….AND FOUND THE MISSING LIBRARY BOOK I’VE BEEN SEARCHING FOR!!! 🙂
Audrey says
Would love those books!
Mackenzie says
I would love these books… Who doesn’t love a good hand me down 🙂
Rachel says
Love the books in this stack! 🙂
Jessica says
Today we finally got the lights on the tree and mantle, hung ornaments, dusted, and put out some greenery. The kids and I watched “Elf” while we worked, and finished up with some chocolate chip cookies and milk. Thanks for the challenge this week!
sarah says
Would love to add these to my collection!
Jaimie says
I would love to read those books!
Rachel Anna says
Thanks for the encouragement to keep tackling all these cleaning projects!
Stephanie says
So glad you’re feeling well again! Those books look great.
Cindy says
Oh wow! Great job on the cleaning! Once I get an area done, it seems like I’m drawn to it and will just stop and stare at it…I guess in amazement!
All those books in that stack look amazing! I’d love to win even half of them! Thanks so much for the chance to win them in the giveaway! : )
Lori says
You have inspired me this week, I didn’t get much done today in the way of cleaning, but did get out of the house for the first time in 3 days, (I have been sick too). I got some great deals on diapers and wipes at Walgreens, so excited to save money on those items.
Dianna says
Way to go! I must say I hate unpacking. 🙂
Tara says
I really need these books 😉
Anne says
This is another great stack of books. I’d love to read them.
Sarah says
You’ve inspired me to tackle some neglected closets and cupboards as part of my weekly cleaning tomorrow.
Pam says
We got the kitchen cleaned today!
Elaina says
I made a baby step, decluttering bedroom today. Hopefully, I will get to deep cleaning of all the rooms before Christmas which could be hard with 2 kids and one more to come soon. Thanks again for inspiring post. I’d love to win those books, especially your gratitude journal.
Kimberly says
Great job! You’ve worked so hard this week!!!
Kim Gibson says
Well done! You inspire me! Have a blessed weekend!
Jessica S says
Ugh… Alas, I had other stuff going on today, and I did not get to tackle cleaning projects. However, I will say that I wiped out a shelf in the fridge and cleaned one shelf in my pantry. Baby steps… 🙂
Tara says
Great work on the bathroom cupboards!
Jen says
I didn’t do any cleaning today, I worked, ran errands, and got a massage. I’ll be doing my regularly scheduled cleaning sometime this weekend.
Jen says
I would love to win your books!
Bonnie S. says
I’d love to win the books!
Kristin says
Ahhhh, there are four books I see right away that I would ❤️ to read!! I really enjoy the monthly goals and follow along type of posts. They are very motivating!
Luba says
Great job, Crystal. I am slowly but surely making progress at home. Thank you for giving away books. Your generosity is amazing. 🙂
Anna says
Great job and nice book stack.
Joan says
Congrats on getting so much accomplished, especially since you had not felt up to par!
I would love to win these books!
Need A Nap2 says
We were gone most of the day, now I need to clean up from dinner (take out pizza boxes!). 🙂
Melissa French says
There are some great books I’ve been wanting to read in this stack tonight. Would love to win it. Glad your finally feeling better!! 🙂
Beth says
Would love those! 🙂
Jess Connell says
I did some cleaning today, but also made a mess by making my waffle batter too thin & it somehow worked like glue, fixing my two waffle plates to each other on BOTH waffle makers! ACK!!
I desperately need to declutter & deep clean our master bedroom… it’s always the last place I am likely to spend my energy cleaning.
Kelli S says
I would love to win! And a quick glance under my bathroom sink would reveal MUCH more than that. I guess I better get moving!
Kristen says
I Would love a copy of one thousand gifts and the choose gratitude book especially.
Davonne Parks says
Whoa, I think that’s my favorite book stack of the week! Several great ones in there and a few that I’ve REALLY been wanting to read! I enjoyed the daily updates on your cleaning and your house looks fantastic!
Beth Sheppard says
I love reading. Can’t get enough books. Great gifts also. Thanks for a chance to win them.
Katey Kendall says
Great job! I’d love to win the books.
Laura says
I would love to win that stack of books!