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Abigail Smoker Abigail Smoker

Squirrel! (If You Know, You Know)

Your brain is wonderfully unique. Let's organize to celebrate that.

For many neurodivergent people, staying organized can feel like a constant uphill battle. Everyday tasks can become mountains of overwhelm, leading to frustration and anxiety. If this resonates, know you're not alone, and help is available.

As a professional organizer, I specialize in supporting neurodivergent individuals with ADHD, autism, and other special considerations. I've worked extensively with clients across the spectrum, learning how to tailor organizational strategies to specific needs. I know that a "one-size-fits-all" approach doesn't work, and I pride myself on creating customized systems that truly support my clients’ brains and goals.

Did you know that studies have shown a significant link between clutter and ADHD? Research indicates that approximately 87% of adults with ADHD struggle with clutter, impacting their focus, productivity, and overall well-being. This isn't a matter of laziness or lack of willpower; it's a direct result of the challenges associated with executive function, working memory, and attention regulation that are common in ADHD. And while that specific statistic focuses on ADHD, the challenges of organization can be present in many forms of neurodivergence.

Sometimes, even with the best intentions, staying on top of everything feels impossible. I offer compassionate, non-judgmental support to help you create and maintain order. My approach is collaborative, prioritizing your specific needs before developing any plan.

Here are some ways I can assist you:

  • Body Doubling: Sometimes, just having someone present while you tackle a task can make all the difference. I can provide the external structure and encouragement you need to stay focused and motivated.

  • Decluttering & Organizing: We'll declutter, create storage solutions, and develop maintainable systems.

  • Paper Management: Conquer those paper piles! From mail to filing, I can help.

  • Financial Organization: Set up systems for bills, finances, and deadlines.

  • Meal Planning: Simplify meals with organized plans and shopping lists.

  • Time Management: Develop strategies for managing time and appointments.

Many of my clients find that ongoing support is key to maintaining long-term organization. That's why I offer weekly or monthly maintenance sessions, where we can work together to address any challenges that arise, tweak existing systems, and ensure that you stay on track.

I'm here to help, not judge. I recognize that everyone's brain works differently and provide a supportive environment. If you're feeling overwhelmed and ready for change, reach out. Let's create a space and system that truly supports you.

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Abigail Smoker Abigail Smoker

Sorting Through Grief

Sorting Through Grief (and Maybe Some Sentimental Socks): Organizing After Loss

Grief. It's a messy, complicated, and deeply personal experience. There's no right way to grieve, no timeline to follow, and definitely no instruction manual . If you're also facing the task of sorting through a loved one's belongings, well, that adds another layer of complexity. It can feel overwhelming, emotionally draining, and sometimes, even a little bit… weird. Like, why did they keep that many mismatched socks? (Just kidding… mostly.)

If you're navigating this challenging time, please know that you're not alone. And if the thought of tackling those boxes, closets, and drawers fills you with dread (or just a strong urge to binge-watch Netflix instead), I get it. That's where I come in.

As a professional organizer, I understand that this isn't just about decluttering or creating more space. It's about honoring memories, processing emotions, and gently transitioning to a new chapter. It's about more than just "stuff"—it's about the stories those items represent. And those stories? They deserve to be treated with care.

My approach to organizing after a loss is rooted in compassion and understanding. I create a safe, non-judgmental space for you to process your grief while making decisions about your loved one's belongings. There will be tears (likely), laughter (hopefully), and maybe even some moments of "Wait, they kept that?" And that's all perfectly okay. I'll hold space for whatever emotions arise, without pressure or expectation.

We'll work at your pace, whether that's sorting through a few items at a time or tackling a whole room. Together we can decide what to keep donate, and even figure out how to best display or honor those keepsake, but the decisions are ultimately yours. This is your process, and I'm here to walk alongside you, gently and respectfully.

We'll take it one step at a time, one box at a time, one mismatched sock at a time. And together, we'll create a space that honors the past while allowing you to move forward with peace and comfort. Because even in grief, there can be glimmers of hope, and maybe, just maybe, a little bit of humor along the way. (Especially when you find that box of sentimental socks.)

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Abigail Smoker Abigail Smoker

A Muggy Place

I was living in a muggy place…

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This is the ultimate before picture… of me… before coffee.

I've been living in a muggy place lately. And no, it's not the weather – it's the middle of winter in Pennsylvania, after all. I'm talking about my kitchen cabinets. They were overflowing with mugs, a fact I didn't fully realize until a recent client visit.

While organizing her kitchen, I was struck by the sheer volume of mugs she owned – more than some tourist gift shops! Did she collect them? Not intentionally. Some were handmade by her children, others were gifts from loved ones' travels, and still others had simply accumulated over time. They were scattered everywhere: on the counters, in cabinets, and on a coffee cart.

She had nearly 60 mugs, but only used four regularly, and perhaps eight throughout the entire year. My math isn't perfect, but that means over 80% of her mugs were just taking up valuable real estate. With limited counter and storage space, she desperately needed to reclaim every inch of usable area.

We talked about how some mugs held sentimental value, like the ones her son had made. Others reminded her of relatives, and some were her favorites to drink from. But most were simply clutter. She had no idea where they even came from and never used them. She felt no attachment to them, yet had never considered getting rid of them. Ultimately, she decided to donate some, and we packed others away in her basement. Removing so many mugs freed up cabinet space, allowing her to store items that had been cluttering her counters. This created more food prep space, and now she can even eat dinner at her kitchen table!

Returning home, I took a critical look at my own mug cabinet. I realized my family also only uses four mugs regularly, yet I had over 20 crammed inside! Pulling them all out, I discovered a full set of matching mugs that came with my dishes, rarely used. I suppose I was keeping them "just in case" I ever hosted a coffee party for ten friends who all wanted matching cups? I also found mugs that are truly special to me, but not the most comfortable to drink from. They were hidden in the back, practically forgotten. It was time for a mug migration! Only the mugs we use regularly went back in the cabinet, including a favorite from my brother that perfectly captures my pre-coffee persona.

The special mugs that bring me joy now reside in an open cabinet where I can see them every day. Other mugs were donated, and the matching set? They're tucked away until I host that ten-person tea party.

Maybe it’s time to take a look in your cabinets. Are you living in a muggy place?

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Abigail Smoker Abigail Smoker

A Welcoming Place

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You deserve a home that welcomes you – a place where you feel happy, excited, and at peace. But if your home isn't organized, achieving those feelings can be difficult.

Do any of these scenarios sound familiar?

  • You feel like you're constantly cleaning, yet your home always feels messy.

  • You've replaced something, only to find the original later.

  • You frequently misplace your keys, phone, or glasses.

  • Choosing an outfit is a struggle, even with a closet and drawers overflowing with clothes.

  • Blending your belongings with your partner's feels overwhelming.

  • You're drowning in kids' toys.

  • Instead of relaxing at home, you're constantly thinking about cleaning or unfinished projects.

  • You frequently waste food.

These are common concerns I hear from my clients (and struggles I've experienced myself). Life is messy, and as a mom of two kiddos, believe me, I understand mess! But I can assure you that through organization and thoughtful space planning, you can feel better about your home.

I know how intimidating it can be to invite someone into your home, and I want you to know that you will never be judged. I've worked on projects of all sizes and have seen many different types of homes and families. I will always work to find solutions that you and your family are comfortable with.

I would be honored to help you create a more peaceful and organized home.

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