November 2025 - Season of Gratitude
- Judy Granlee Gates
- Nov 11
- 3 min read
Newsletter Topic of the Month
As the season of gratitude arrives, it’s the perfect time to slow down, clear space, and create comfort, for yourself, your loved ones, and your guests. Whether you're hosting Thanksgiving, preparing for guests, just your own family ,or simply trying to stay ahead of holiday overwhelm, here’s how to stay grounded and get grateful… one thoughtful step at a time.
Decluttering and Organizing:
“Declutter Before the Holidays: Pre-Guest Panic Plan”
Avoid the last-minute rush with this simple 7 Day or Weekend Declutter Sprint designed to get your home guest-ready without the stress!
The 7-Day Mini Plan:
Day 1: Coat Closet Clean out – Make room for guests’ coats by removing off-season items and unnecessary extras. Add hangers and a fresh sachet. Donate unused coats to a local coat drive!
Day 2: Guest Bathroom Blitz – Clear under-sink clutter, toss old products, and stock fresh towels, TP, and toiletries.
Day 3: Kitchen Counters – Remove appliances and gadgets you don’t use daily to free up prep space.
Day 4: Fridge & Pantry Edit – Toss expired items, make space for upcoming grocery hauls, and stock basics (butter, broth, baking staples).
Day 5: Guest Bedroom Prep – Clear surfaces, make space in a drawer or closet, and set out extra blankets. Clear out any items (like workout gear or odd furniture) to give your guests a place to relax. A comfy chair and small table is always nice in a guest room. Make sure there is access to power outlets and provide a multi charger for phones and electronics.
Day 6: Living Room Sweep – Declutter side tables, stow remotes and cords, and refresh throw pillows. Check under those couch and chair cushions do and give them a good cleaning.
Day 7: Final Touches – Wipe down high-touch areas, add a candle or diffuser, and enjoy your clean space.
Weekend Option: Group these into AM/PM sessions over two days for a quick reset!
Home Edits:
With guests coming, work on some table-scape ideas to make the meal extra special.
Use layered textures like woven chargers, linen napkins, and ceramic plates for warmth and depth.
Try a gratitude centerpiece: a tray with candles, small pumpkins, pinecones, and a framed quote or hand-written gratitude card.
Keep it functional, avoid towering decor that blocks conversation or too much stuff that makes it hard to eat!
Guest Space Refresh:
Add a luggage rack or small bench at the end of the bed.
Include a tray with water bottles, tissues, spare phone charger, and a welcome note.
Use a small basket for towels and a nightlight for comfort.
Flexible Furniture Tips:
Store a folding table or stackable stools behind a closet door or under the bed.
Use an ottoman with storage as an extra seat or blanket bin.
Move a rolling cart into service as a bar, dessert station, or guest-nightstand.
Short Term Rentals:
Check your kitchen for these holiday needs:
Turkey baster, roasting pan, pie server, rolling pin, pie pan
Serving platters and extra dish towels
Foil, storage containers, and Ziplocs for leftovers
Cozy Entertainment for family gatherings and cold nights:
Board games (Monopoly, Scrabble, Uno)
Deck of cards and puzzles
A fall playlist + Bluetooth speaker
If you decorate, do so simply, greens and wreaths and a possibly a small light tree without ornaments, or done in an understated way. We use pinecones from our place and white lights.
Your goal is to anticipate what makes them sigh with relief after traveling—and deliver it before they even have to ask.
Have a topic idea? Area of struggle? A fun tip? Send it in and I may make it the topic of the month. Email me at hello@judygranleegates.com
Join in the conversation at Home Elevated on Facebook or Home_Elevated_WA on Instagram!
