Feeling cramped in your home even though you haven't moved? It could be a sign that you have too much stuff and not enough space. Clutter builds slowly—one drawer, shelf, or corner at a time—until suddenly your home feels more chaotic than comfortable.

Here are 10 signs you may be drowning in stuff and simple, doable solutions to reclaim your space and peace of mind.

1. You Can’t Park in Your Garage

The Sign: Your garage has become a glorified storage unit, filled with boxes, holiday décor, sports gear, and random stuff that never made it back inside.
The Solution:

• Set a weekend to declutter.

• Categorize items into keep, donate, sell, toss.

• Install overhead storage racks or wall-mounted shelves to free up floor space.

• Only store what’s essential—and reclaim that parking spot!

2. You Have a “Junk Room” or “Drop Zone”

The Sign: One room or area in your home is the catch-all for everything you don’t know what to do with.
The Solution:

• Empty the space and start fresh.

• Invest in multi-functional furniture (like storage benches or ottomans).

• Add labeled bins or baskets for organized sorting.

• Set a clear purpose for the room and stick to it.

3. Your Closets Are Overflowing

The Sign: Clothes, shoes, and bags tumble out when you open the door, and you can’t find what you need.
The Solution:

• Try the “one in, one out” rule—donate one item for every new one you bring in.

• Use slimline hangers to maximize space.

• Store off-season clothing in vacuum-sealed bags or under-bed containers.

4. You Buy Things You Already Own (Because You Can’t Find Them)

The Sign: You keep rebuying items—scissors, batteries, tape—because you don’t know where the originals are.
The Solution:

• Create dedicated zones for commonly used items.

• Use clear bins and label everything.

• Do a quarterly home audit to reset and restock efficiently.

5. You Feel Stressed Just Looking Around

The Sign: Visual clutter is causing mental clutter—you feel anxious, irritable, or overwhelmed in your own home.
The Solution:

• Start with a 10-minute daily tidy-up.

• Focus on one surface at a time—clear the kitchen counter, coffee table, or nightstand.

• Bring in calming elements like plants or neutral decor to create visual breathing room.

6. You Don’t Have a Clear Dining Table

The Sign: Your table is buried under mail, groceries, homework, or laundry, leaving no space for actual meals.
The Solution:

• Set a daily or weekly goal to reset the table.

• Use the “don’t put it down, put it away” motto.

• Use a decorative centerpiece—if it’s there, you’re less likely to pile things on it.

• Add a paper or mail sorter nearby so incoming clutter has a designated home.

7. You Struggle to Clean Your Home

The Sign: Vacuuming or dusting takes twice as long because you’re constantly moving stuff out of the way.
The Solution:

• Aim for minimalism on surfaces—clear countertops, shelves, and floors.

• Use decorative baskets or bins to corral loose items.

• Keep only what’s functional or beautiful in shared spaces.

8. You’ve Started Using the Floor as Storage

The Sign: Boxes, bags, or piles of things are living on the floor—permanently.
The Solution:

• Get creative with vertical storage—think shelves, hooks, pegboards.

• Purge items that are no longer serving you.

• Stop trying to find the perfect person to gift every item to, instead take it to charity trust that the most perfect person will own it next.

9. You Constantly Say “I Might Need This Someday” or “Just in Case”

The Sign: You’re keeping items based on possibility, not reality.
The Solution:

• Ask yourself: “Would I buy this again today?”

• Ask yourself: “Can I live without it?”

• Store sentimental or rarely used items in clearly labeled bins in the basement or attic.

• For emotionally tough decisions, take a photo and let the item go.

10. Your Home Doesn’t Reflect Who You Are Now

The Sign: Your space is filled with outdated hobbies, kids' toys from years ago, or decor that no longer fits your lifestyle. Gifted and hand-me-down items that fill the space, not giving you a chance to make it your own.
The Solution:

• Redesign your home with intention.

• Donate or sell items that belong to a past phase of life.

• Curate your space to reflect your current values, goals, and personality.

Megan Golightly at GoSimplified. 

You don’t have to do this alone. Check out Megan’s organizing services: https://www.go-simplified.com/shop-services 

Find inspiration from GoSimpilified on Social Media:
Instagram
Facebook
YouTube
TikTok
Pinterest

Living in a cluttered space doesn’t mean you’re messy—it usually means life got busy and things accumulated without notice. The good news? You can take back control, one step at a time. With 5, 10 or 20 minutes per day. Start small, stay consistent, and remember: your home should serve you—not the stuff inside it. 

Figuring out your organizing style will help you stay organized and understand the organizing styles of those you live with goes a long way in creating systems that will stick. Check out the Clutterbug quiz: https://clutterbug.me/ 

Simple, Eco-Friendly Tips for a Bite-Free Summer

Warm summer evenings in Calgary are perfect for BBQs, gardening, and unwinding outdoors—until the mosquitoes arrive. While our climate isn’t as mosquito-heavy as some parts of Canada, our rainy springs and warm summers can still invite these pesky biters into backyards, especially after thunderstorms or during humid weeks.

If you’re looking to enjoy your outdoor space without resorting to harsh chemicals or bug zappers, here are natural and effective ways to reduce mosquitoes in your Calgary backyard:

1. Eliminate Standing Water

Mosquitoes need stagnant water to breed—even as little as a bottle cap’s worth!
Focus on:

• Emptying birdbaths, kids' toys, and flower pot saucers weekly

• Cleaning out gutters and ensuring proper drainage

• Refreshing water features like fountains with circulating pumps

2. Encourage Natural Predators

Create a backyard ecosystem that naturally keeps mosquitoes in check.
Attract these beneficial allies:

• Bats: Install a bat house on a tall pole or tree—one bat can eat thousands of mosquitoes a night!

• Birds: Purple martins and swallows love mosquitoes. Add nesting boxes and shrubs for shelter.

• Dragonflies & frogs: Build a small pond with native plants to draw these mosquito munchers in.

3. Plant Mosquito-Repelling Greenery

Several plants naturally deter mosquitoes thanks to their scent or essential oils.
Try planting:

• Citronella grass (in pots for mobility)

• Lavender

• Lemon balm

• Basil

• Catnip (mosquitoes hate it—cats love it!)

• Marigolds

Plant near seating areas, patios, or doorways for best effect.

4. Use Natural Yard Sprays

Skip the synthetic sprays. Instead, opt for natural solutions:

• DIY garlic spray (blend garlic cloves with water and spray around the yard)

• Neem oil spray – safe for plants and pets, but discourages mosquitoes

• Essential oil sprays with citronella, eucalyptus, or tea tree oil mixed with water

Always test sprays on small areas of plants first to avoid damage.

5. Install Outdoor Fans

Mosquitoes are weak fliers. A gentle breeze from a fan can disrupt their flight path and keep your patio comfortable and bug-free. This is especially useful for covered decks and pergolas.

6. Keep Grass & Shrubs Trimmed

Mosquitoes rest in cool, shady areas during the heat of the day. Keep your yard tidy to eliminate hiding spots:

• Trim tall grass

• Prune dense bushes and trees

• Avoid overwatering—damp, shady soil is a mosquito magnet

7. Use Mosquito-Repelling Lighting

Standard lights can attract mosquitoes, especially in the evening. Try yellow LED bug lights or solar lights designed to deter insects. Bonus: they’re energy-efficient and won’t ruin your ambiance.

8. Try Coffee Grounds in Water Features

Sprinkling used coffee grounds in stagnant water (like in planters or rain barrels) can kill mosquito larvae and prevent hatching. It’s a safe, eco-friendly option if you can’t fully eliminate a water source.

Enjoy a Bite-Free Summer

With a few intentional changes, you can transform your Calgary backyard into a more enjoyable, mosquito-resistant space—naturally. Whether you're hosting friends, playing with the kids, or simply enjoying the peace and quiet, these methods will help keep the buzz at bay.

Have a favorite natural mosquito tip or DIY trick? Share it in the comments below!

Not everyone wants to live downtown — but more and more Calgarians are craving a walkable, convenient lifestyle where groceries, gyms, cafes, and services are just a few blocks away.

Whether you’re a young professional, downsizer, or a busy family looking to reduce reliance on your car, these 10 Calgary neighborhoods offer the perfect balance of suburban space with urban-like convenience.

Let’s explore Calgary’s most car-optional communities beyond the city core.

1. Seton (SE)

Why it’s great:
Nicknamed the "Downtown of the South," Seton was built from the ground up as a walkable urban village.

• South Health Campus

• Superstore, Save-On-Foods, and more

• YMCA (huge rec centre), Cineplex VIP, restaurants

• Wide sidewalks, bike paths, and future LRT stop

Best for: Professionals, healthcare workers, young families

2. University District (NW)

Why it’s great:
A master-planned community that blends student life, modern urban design, and day-to-day walkability.

• Whole Foods, Cineplex, Staples, pet stores

• Gyms, cafes, medical offices, and green space

• Easy access to the U of C, Market Mall, and Foothills Hospital

• Bike-friendly infrastructure + great transit

Best for: Students, hospital staff, professionals

3. Bridgeland-Riverside (NE fringe of downtown)

Why it’s great:
Though technically close to downtown, Bridgeland offers a distinct, cozy neighborhood feel with everything you need nearby.

• Blush Lane, Bridgeland Market, restaurants

• Yoga studios, F45, pathways, cafes

• CTrain access + excellent cycling

Best for: Urbanites who want charm and calm

4. Marda Loop / Garrison Woods (SW)

Why it’s great:
A trendy inner-southwest community with boutiques, dining, and groceries all within walking distance.

• Safeway, Blush Lane, Shoppers Drug Mart

• Boutique fitness (Barre Belle, F45, yoga)

• Strong community vibe and great schools

Best for: Upscale buyers, young families, professionals

5. Mahogany (SE)

Why it’s great:
Combines lakeside living with serious shopping and dining power — walkable for many residents depending on their location within the community.

• Westman Village retail district: Analog Coffee, Diner Deluxe, fitness studios

• Sobeys, banking, salons, clinics nearby

• Beach club, paths, and year-round activity

Best for: Families, downsizers, lake lovers

6. Aspen Woods / West Springs (SW)

Why it’s great:
These upscale communities offer suburban luxury without isolation — thanks to growing commercial hubs like Aspen Landing and West 85th.

• Safeway, Blush Lane, banking, dental, gyms

• Great public and private schools

• Short drive or transit ride to downtown

Best for: Professionals, families, and commuters

7. Chinook Park / Kingsland / Haysboro (SW)

Why it’s great:
Mature communities near Macleod Trail with solid transit access and surprising walkability.

• Proximity to Chinook Centre, Heritage CTrain Station

• Local restaurants, fitness centres, clinics

• Quiet streets but close to everything

Best for: Commuters, seniors, savvy buyers

8. Capitol Hill / Mount Pleasant (NW)

Why it’s great:
Bordering SAIT, North Hill Mall, and Confederation Park, these communities blend residential charm with easy access to shops and services.

• Safeway, Starbucks, banking, clinics nearby

• Fitness studios, CTrain, and walkable to SAIT/U of C

• Fantastic bike lanes

Best for: Students, urban families, professionals

9. Lake Bonavista / Willow Park (SE)

Why it’s great:
Mature communities with an established lifestyle — now benefiting from proximity to Southcentre Mall and Lake Bonavista Promenade.

• Walk to groceries, medical, fitness, and dining

• Access to LRT, recreation centres, and green spaces

• Bonus: Lake access (Bonavista) and golf 

Best for: Families and active retirees

10. Auburn Bay (SE)

Why it’s great:
Another lake community that’s just steps away from South Health Campus, Seton YMCA, and major retailers.

• Walkable to Superstore, Sobeys, and services

• Pathways, lake, dog parks, and schools

• Quick access to Deerfoot & transit options

Best for: Young families, healthcare professionals

🏡 Final Thoughts: Suburban Doesn’t Mean Car-Dependent

These communities prove that you can have space and convenience — no long commutes or daily car reliance required. From groceries and gyms to schools and services, Calgary’s newer urban villages and mature hubs offer walkability without sacrificing lifestyle.

Thinking About a Car-Light Life?

Let’s find a home in one of these convenient communities! Whether you’re buying your first place, relocating, or downsizing, I’d love to help you discover the best fit for your lifestyle.

📩 Contact Chris Marshall
📞 403-585-5362

When summer finally rolls into Calgary, there’s nothing better than escaping the heat by dipping your toes—or your whole body—into a refreshing lake. While Calgary doesn’t have natural lakes within city limits, there are several beautiful, swimmable lakes just a short drive away. Whether you're looking for family-friendly beaches, scenic picnic spots, or tranquil waters surrounded by nature, there’s a perfect lake for you.

Here are some of the best swimmable lakes near Calgary to explore this summer:

1. Johnson Lake (Banff National Park)

📍 Approx. 1.5 hours from Calgary

Tucked in Banff National Park, Johnson Lake is a hidden gem with crystal-clear water, soft beaches, and spectacular mountain views. It’s one of the few lakes in the national park warm enough for swimming, thanks to its shallower depth. It’s also great for paddle boarding, kayaking, and lakeside picnics.

💡 Tip: Bring water shoes—the beach is a bit rocky in places.

2. Ghost Lake Reservoir

📍 About 45 minutes west of Calgary

Ghost Lake offers a blend of adventure and relaxation. It’s a large reservoir with areas for swimming, boating, windsurfing, and sailing. The water tends to be on the cooler side, but it’s perfect on a hot summer day.

💡 Note: This lake is popular with boaters—stick close to the designated swimming areas for safety.

3. Sikome Lake (Fish Creek Provincial Park)

📍 Within Calgary city limits

If you want to stay in town, Sikome Lake is your go-to urban beach. This man-made lake is open seasonally and features lifeguards, change rooms, picnic areas, and sandy shores. It’s ideal for families and anyone who wants a convenient swim spot without leaving the city.

💡 Pass required: There is a small entry fee for access.

4. Chestermere Lake

📍 30 minutes east of Calgary

This large lake is right next to the city and perfect for a day trip. The designated public swimming area is located near Anniversary Park, where you’ll also find a sandy beach, playgrounds, and picnic spots. There are two other lakeside parks as well: Cove Park and Sunset Park. The water is relatively warm in summer and suitable for swimming, paddling, and boating. 

💡 Parking can fill up fast—arrive early!

5. Sylvan Lake

📍 1.5 hours north of Calgary

One of Alberta’s most popular summer destinations, Sylvan Lake boasts a long sandy shoreline, shallow waters, and a bustling beach-town vibe. You’ll find everything from swimming and jet-skiing to beach volleyball and food trucks along the boardwalk. The Sylvan Lake Aqua Splash park is a fantastic attraction - a blast (and a workout!)!

💡 Make a weekend out of it—there are lots of cabins and rentals nearby.

6. Barrier Lake (Kananaskis Country)

📍 1 hour west of Calgary

While known for its icy-blue color (and equally chilly temperature), Barrier Lake is breathtakingly beautiful. Brave the cold for a refreshing dip, or simply relax by the shore and enjoy the views. It's also a great spot for hiking and picnicking.

💡 Kananaskis Conservation Pass required.

7. Sibbald Lake

📍 1 hour west of Calgary

Sibbald Lake is a smaller, quiet lake in the Kananaskis region. The beach area is rustic but peaceful—perfect for families or those looking to unwind. It’s also surrounded by great hiking and camping options.

💡 Ideal for a day trip or overnight camping.

🌞 Summer Lake Day Essentials

Before heading out, don’t forget to pack:

• Sunscreen & hats

• Towels and swimsuits

• Snacks & lots of water

• Water shoes (some beaches are rocky)

• A portable speaker or book

• Life jackets

Final Thoughts

Whether you’re craving a beach day close to the city or a scenic mountain escape, Calgary’s surrounding lakes have something for everyone. Just remember to check for seasonal updates or restrictions (especially in provincial and national parks) before heading out. 🌿

Happy swimming! 🏊‍♀️💦