by kathilipp | Feb 20, 2018 | Clutter Free Podcast, Podcast, tips and ideas |
Erin MacPherson is back with Kathi in a discussion you don’t want to miss. They continue their chat on the topic of preparing a Natural Disaster Kit and the importance of being prepared.
In this episode, Kathi and Erin discuss how thinking ahead can make a world of difference in a disaster or unexpected moment. Thinking now will save time later and it might just save your furry friends. They, of course, share how to do it without collecting clutter.
Erin MacPherson lives in Austin, Texas with her husband Cameron, her sons Joey and Will and her daughter Kate. She is the author of “The Christian Mama’s Guide Series“, a staff writer for Dun & Bradstreet and a freelancer for publications like Thriving Family Magazine, MOPS MomSense, FamilyLife Magazine, Daily Guideposts and BEMag. She blogs about her life, her kids and her faith at ChristianMamasGuide.com.
by kathilipp | Feb 13, 2018 | Bible Study, Clutter Free |
Friends, I am so thrilled about tomorrow morning. We’re launching our second year of the Clutter Free Bible Study with a few hundred (maybe a couple thousand) friends over on our Facebook group. We’ll spend the next 40 days taking a deep dive into the spiritual side of Clutter. Going Clutter Free is a lot like peeling an onion, every layer removed reveals something hidden beneath. Together, we’re going to figure out the emotions that lurk below the surface of our attachment to our stuff. I want YOU to come join us. Wonder if you’re ready to take on the challenge?
Here’s what last year’s participants have to say about their experiences:
“I have learned so much through this process about the ways clutter affects not only my house buy my body and my mental health too. I am learning to let go of stuff that before had a hold on my life I didn’t even realize. I am so grateful to be on this journey with all of you!” ~ Robin
“On Christmas Eve 2013, my youngest son wanted to host a tea party for his grandparents but our house was such a disaster that they were forbidden from coming inside and we had a picnic in the back yard instead. After doing Clutter Free in 2015, this year they’re allowed ANYwhere in my house! What a difference a year makes!” ~ Tabitha
“I discovered fears I didn’t know I had – fears of poverty, scarcity and of losing control. I learned to trust God to provide what I needed when I needed it.” ~ Tonya
You can get more details about the study here. This year the Online Group kicks off on Februray 14 and runs until March 28. If you sign up before February 14, you’ll get a great deal for the online study access for just $14.99 (normally $25) by using code CFBSFEB18. Talk about a Valentine’s gift to yourself.
Plus, join us in the nicest corner of the internet – the Clutter Free Academy Facebook group, absolutely free. Join others who are finding freedom and sharing their #onesmallwin moments as they tackle clutter and find ways to be all that God has designed them to be. You can do it and we’d love to help.
by kathilipp | Feb 13, 2018 | Clutter Free, Clutter Free Podcast, Podcast, tips and ideas |
Erin MacPherson is back in an episode you don’t want to miss. With so many natural disasters and unplanned emergencies happening this past year in our country, it’s easy to see why a little preparedness will go a long way. Kathi and Erin discuss how and what to put together to make sure you are prepared for those unexpected moments. And of course, how do we do it without collecting clutter.
Erin MacPherson lives in Austin, Texas with her husband Cameron, her sons Joey and Will and her daughter Kate. She is the author of “The Christian Mama’s Guide Series“, a staff writer for Dun & Bradstreet and a freelancer for publications like Thriving Family Magazine, MOPS MomSense, FamilyLife Magazine, Daily Guideposts and BEMag. She blogs about her life, her kids and her faith at ChristianMamasGuide.com.
by kathilipp | Feb 6, 2018 | Friendship, How to, Podcast |
Kathi invited her friend Joy Beth Smith, author of Party of One, a book just releasing today, to discuss finding freedom in whatever walk of life God has us in right now. Beth is single woman living her life for the Lord, and trying to help the world reframe the language around singleness in the church.
Kathi and Beth delve into topics of singleness, online dating, weight, personalities, and our own significance when the world tells us we have to earn our space in this world. They talk about how to support our single friends or family members as well as how our churches can include our singles into our language and culture. This is such an honest conversation between two women that want the best for one another and the people listening in. Don’t miss this great conversation!
FREEBIE download from Joy from her new book (click to download the pdf):
GIVEAWAY
We are giving away 3 copies of Joy’s book, Party of One. To win, answer the question below:
(if you aren’t single) How can encourage a single person in a significant way?
(if you are single) How do you most want to be encouraged as a single person?
*Giveaway open to US citizens only.
Get your copy of Party of One here. (affiliate link)
Extra stuff mentioned in this episode:
Enneagram Test
Joy Beth is a managing editor with Christianity Today and winner of the Evangelical Press Association’s Higher Goals in Christian Journalism Award. She’s been published in the New York Times, Washington Post, Salt Lake Tribune, Virginian Pilot, and Christ and Pop Culture. After earning her MA degree in English Lit, Joy Beth had a brief stint as a teacher, but now she happily resides in the Chicagoland area, where she no longer has to give anyone permission to go to the bathroom.
by kathilipp | Feb 1, 2018 | Clutter Free |
About this time last year, I thought I was a Clutter Free queen. My house wasn’t what I would call “Pinterest Perfect,” but it worked for our family and we didn’t mind drop-in visitors. Then I was asked to lead the Lenten Clutter Free Bible Study through a private members-only Facebook group. The study walks participants through what Jesus has to say about our stuff. It digs deep. Many of us find our Clutter Free journey like peeling back layers of an onion – there is always more that lies beneath. I went into the bible study thinking I would get a handle on some cluttered corners in our home. Instead, I spent six weeks decluttering my head and heart.
I discovered fears I didn’t know I had – fears of poverty, scarcity and of losing control. Fears that my husband would consider me spoiled or wasteful. No matter how often I decluttered my pantry, it would inevitably reach a point where it was bursting at the seams yet again. Why? Because I was terrified that something would happen, and we’d have no money for food. I would stockpile food, even food we didn’t like, without realizing it. I had clothes that were neither my taste nor my style cluttering my closet because I feared letting them go. If someone offered to give me something, I felt obligated to say yes. Who was I to think I was too good for someone else’s generosity – even if it was the product of their own decluttering?
By the end of the six-week study, other than the closet, my house didn’t look much different. I, on the other hand, had changed completely. I learned to trust God to provide what I needed when I needed it. I was able to joyfully release the canned sardines that had been sitting in the pantry for years, as well as the ill-fitting clothing from my closet. I also learned to trust God to provide for my stuff. I stopped worrying about what could or would happen to the things I released. I no longer fret over which charity is most deserving of my donations or feel obligated to sell belongings to recoup costs. I just focus on releasing that which no longer brings me joy, and I trust God to sort it out according to His plan.
The study changed our online group as well. It didn’t take long for us to realize that the work of Clutter Free was bigger than just six weeks. We needed a 24/7 year-round support system for those continuing their Clutter Free journey and for those who were just beginning. Now known as Clutter Free Academy, our group is a thriving community of 3,800 members who all grapple with Clutter in our heads, hearts and homes. We say we’re the kindest corner of the internet because we are all about support and encouragement without judgment or shame.
Are you ready to find out what Jesus says about your stuff? We’re walking through the Clutter Free Bible Study once again. Launching on February 14, the study includes videos, resource downloads and the 24/7 year-round support of the Clutter Free Academy Facebook group. Join as we dig deeper together to explore why we acquire what we don’t need, keep hold of stuff we don’t use or love, and how all of that makes us feel.
To be a part of the study club, get access to our online videos and booklet for just $14.99 (regularly $25!) between now and February 14, 2018 with coupon code: CFBSFEB18. Click here for lifetime access to the study and join our private Facebook group for daily encouragement from Kathi and Tonya for Lent this year.
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Tonya Kubo is the illustrious, fearless leader of Kathi Lipp’s Clutter-Free Academy Facebook group. She and her husband, Brian, are raising two spirited girls in the agricultural heart of California. She writes about fighting the demons of comparison, clutter and compulsion on www.tonyakubo.com.
Facebook link: https://www.facebook.com/AuthorTonyaKubo/
by kathilipp | Jan 30, 2018 | Bible Study, Clutter Free, Podcast |
Kathi Lipp invited our Clutter Free Academy queen Tonya Kubo to the studio to discuss her epic transformation from doing the Clutter Free Bible Study this time last year. We talk a lot about Clutter Free in terms of our stuff. But this week we get down to the nitty gritty about the heart and spiritual side of our clutter. What does Jesus have to say about our stuff? It turns out, quite a bit.
Kathi and Tonya talk about how the spiritual side of their clutter was an integral piece of changing their own hearts and in turn, their lives. We also discuss what to expect on our upcoming online group study. For more info on our group study click here.
To be a part of the study club, get access to our online videos and booklet for just $14.99 (regularly $25!) between now and February 14, 2018 with coupon code: CFBSFEB18. Click here for lifetime access to the study and join our private Facebook group for daily encouragement from Kathi and Tonya for Lent this year.
Tonya Kubo is the illustrious, fearless leader of Kathi Lipp’s Clutter-Free Academy Facebook group. She and her husband, Brian, are raising two spirited girls in the agricultural heart of California. She writes about fighting the demons of comparison, clutter and compulsion on www.tonyakubo.com.
by kathilipp | Jan 24, 2018 | Clutter Free, Success Story |
Since releasing my book Clutter Free three years ago, I have heard from hundreds of people whose lives have been changed and it absolutely thrills me every single time. Your stories of healing and breakthrough are inspiring and I want to share some of these stories with you. So every month we’ll highlight a couple of your stories. We’ll be highlighting different stories in the newsletter this year too so if you aren’t getting that in your email, sign up here. Our first story of the year is from one of our awesome Clutter Free Academy Facebook Group super members and encourager, Jenn Buell.
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Have you ever had that one spot of clutter that gets under your skin but somehow you just can’t seem to tackle it? It may not take that much time but it doesn’t feel like there will be a huge payoff and it’ll take time you don’t think you have. So you hide. Yeah, that was me and my junk drawers. Yes, that’s right, I said “drawers” plural.
Over Christmas break, I had the motivation to take this odious clutter-catcher on. My kids were off school and my eldest was home from college. My eldest was even feeling helpful and suggesting the family do some decluttering. Seize the day!
So, one night as we sat down to dinner, I informed the kids that no one was leaving the table when we were done eating. We were going to sort the chaotic two drawers that hold pens, pencils, rulers, tape, scissors, and crayons. These two drawers were overflowing with these items and yet we often couldn’t find a working pen and tossed back in dried up markers or broken pencils.
Surprisingly, no one balked at the idea. We grabbed scrap paper to test pens and markers and dumped the offending drawers on the table. We tossed a grocery sack in the middle and everyone put broken crayons, dried up markers, and empty pens inside. We even made the call to toss nasty pencils—you know the cheap kind that won’t sharpen and break often. Why were we keeping them?! I’d say it was to be thrifty but they weren’t doing us any good and just took up space.
The final outcome was delightful. I’m going to get some pencil boxes to keep the markers and pens and pencils separate in the second drawer in the picture. My eldest kindly suggested this would be our benchmark about keeping anything new. If it doesn’t fit in the box, it doesn’t get kept. Love it!
So if you have a cluttered up drawer full of office supplies like this, why not put the whole family to work to fix the problem? I’d say it took no more than 30-45 minutes to get it done. (I’m guessing because we didn’t watch the time and no one complained. Win!)
I’m so glad that I have embraced Kathi’s encouragement to tackle clutter one small project at a time and to celebrate each #onesmallwin. Now, onto the next small win!
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Friends, we’d love to hear your stories. Email us your successes along with your before and after photos to info@kathilipp.com. And join us at the nicest corner of the internet at Clutter Free Academy Private Facebook group.
We are having a sale!
Our men’s and women’s shirts are on sale and perfect for Valentine’s Day. Free shipping with any $25 purchase. Learn more at shop.kathilipp.com.
by kathilipp | Jan 23, 2018 | God, Podcast, Praying God's Word |
Kathi and good friend Mary DeMuth, author of 36 books, come together to discuss the making and inspiration behind Mary’s new devotion, Jesus Everyday. The unique thing about this journal that interested Kathi so much is that the reader is learning how to communicate and connect with the Father on a deeper level.
Mary shares a part of her story where she began to see the power of prayer in her life. From those instances she became passionate about prayer for her own life. If praying is something you have trouble with, this is an amazing episode of inspiration, hope and empowerment for people in every walk of life.
Mary has generously given the podcast three copies of her new devotion, Jesus Everyday. Answer the following question in the show comments below for your chance to win: “How can I incorporate prayer into my life today?”
*US residents only.
Sign up for Mary’s Monday prayers here.
Get your copy of Jesus Every Day at
Amazon
Barnes and Noble
Mary DeMuth is the author of more than 5 books and speaks about living an uncaged, freedom-infused life. Her biggest accomplishment? Being happily married to Patrick for 25+ years and raising her three amazing kids. Find out more at
MaryDeMuth.com
by kathilipp | Jan 19, 2018 | Books, Clutter Free |
Welcome to the Clutter Free Book Club, where I share the books I’ve been reading (and hopefully loving.) Every couple of weeks, I review a book I’ve read, and because I am living a Clutter Free life, I pass that book on to ONE OF YOU! To be entered into the drawing, just comment on this post and you’ll be entered to win.
But there is one catch: if you win the book, you have to promise to pass it on to someone else when you’re done (keeping this book club Clutter Free.)
When you comment below, share either 1.) A book you’ve read that you think I should put on my list or, 2.) The name of the person you will pass this book onto when you’re done reading it!
by America’s Test Kitchen
Where I bought it: Costco
Where I read it: In my kitchen where I tried out multiple recipes…
I went from feeding a family consisting of famished teenagers to becoming an empty-nester is a matter of mere years. The problem? I still have the tendency to cook as if a soccer team may stop by after practice needed to be fed. I still cook with leftovers on purpose (LOOP meals), but I’m learning to dial back and sometimes, just cook for two. I love this cookbook with loads of recipes for just two, that are mostly simple and (with every recipe we’ve tried) delicious. The ONLY reason I’m giving my copy away is that my mom bought me the hard cover version for Christmas.
Highly recommended.
Just a word on the books I read and review: I have a wide and varied sense of taste when it comes to books. I would love for you to enter and win one of my books – but if you are offended by book content, I would ask that you go online to read reviews to see if this book is for you before you enter to win.
Only US readers are eligible to receive the free book.
Affiliate link used.
by kathilipp | Jan 16, 2018 | God, Identity, Podcast |
In this episode Kathi chats with Kristen Kill, author of Finding Selah, The Simple Practice of Peace When you Need it Most. After the birth of her oldest daughter, before post-partum depression was widely diagnosed, Kristen remembers the fog that surrounded her. Rather than cry out to God, she retreated, tiptoeing around God, afraid to speak.
Kristen shares the need for us to create a space of rest, a space of quiet in our lives so we can re-sync with Jesus throughout our day.
Join us for this thoughtful episode and be encouraged!
FREE DOWNLOAD
Kristen has generously offered a Free Download Print by Rachel Jacobson from Portland, OR for our listeners. Click here to download.
WIN!
Three giveaway copies of the book to 3 random people who comment the answer to this question in the comments section below: “How today are you going to create just a place of selah in your life?”
Kristen Kill is a woman transformed by the delight of God. A contributing editor at The Better Mom, and co-host of At Home, a popular podcast with Sally Clarkson, Kristen is passionate about encouraging women who feel stretched thin with the truth that, even in the tension, God is singing over them with love.
After spending the last seven years in the hustle of New York City, Kristen and her husband, Josh, are learning to go slow as they raise their five kids in the Pacific Northwest. Her days are filled with homeschooling, walking her slightly anxious hound dog, and putting off the cleaning for one more day.
Find Kristen writing at kristenkill.com and follow her on Instagram @kristenkill.
