Omaha author earns title of 'America's Clutter Coach'—February 29, 2008
Any good, winter housekeeper worth his/her weight in swept-up street sand knows that crocuses in bloom mean it's time to throw open the drapes, roll up the sleeves and get to work. But if you're one of those homemakers who would rather be reading than spring cleaning, let me introduce you to "America's Clutter Coach," Omaha author Cyndy Salzmann.
Salzmann earned the "clutter coach" title for her approach to housecleaning that gives busy homemakers more time to do the things they love. She published two novels and three self-help books that outline her strategies and promise to bring peace, joy and order to the home. Also a popular motivational speaker, Salzmann has offered encouragement and practical advice to audiences across the country.
She'll be speaking in Hastings, 8 p.m. April 8 at the city auditorium, in a presentation hosted by the Friends of Hastings Public Library. "Unclutter Your Heart, Unclutter Your Home," will be the focus of her presentation.
She, a mother of three, wife and business owner, Salzmann drew inspiration for her books from her own struggles with an impossible schedule, overflowing closets, piles of paper and a never-ending to-do list. Sprinkled with personal anecdotes, humor and warmth, Salzmann's books and talks offer help to those she calls "domestically challenged."
Salzmann's non-fiction books each address specific challenges facing today's busy families.
"Making Your Home a Haven" presents doable ideas for housekeeping, as well as for digging out from under years of accumulated clutter. "An organized and orderly home brings freedom to our family, leaving our hearts and minds open to embrace the important things God brings our way," Salzmann maintains.
"The Occasional Cook" is an interesting collection of recipes and methods meant to simplify meal preparation while satisfying discriminating palates and providing variety to picky eaters. Even if you enjoy leisurely cooking, you'll appreciate Salzmann's time-saving tips and recipes - from classic meatloaf to huevos rancheros.
"Beyond Groundhogs and Gobblers" is a resource for parents who want to make holidays meaningful and memorable for their children. The historical and spiritual significance of each American holiday is presented, along with activities and more recipes for kids of all ages.
Flecks of Salzmann's deep spiritual convictions and message for a well-ordered life appear in her non-fiction as well as her fiction writing. Her two fiction books are light mysteries that include unique recipes woven throughout the chapters. I recommend you bake a batch of Salzmann's "apple almond biscotti," perfect to dunk in a hot beverage and munch while meeting the six ladies of her "Friday Afternoon Club" mysteries.
"Dying to Decorate" is the first book in the club series. Readers will identify with her fictional characters caught in the chaos of raising a family, maintaining friendships and sorting out the items of intrigue that draw them in.
"Crime and Clutter," Salzmann's most recent publication (2007), brings the club ladies back together as they work to clean out the stash in a storage unit and discover shattering secrets from the 60s.
"So how does 'America's Clutter Coach' begin HER spring cleaning regime?" I asked her.
"I hate to admit it but I am a person who thrives on immediate gratification," Salzmann explained. "I LOVE to look out of clean windows so that is first on my list. The next is to clear out all the winter muck out of the garage. After that, I'll likely write-up a 'not to do' list and enjoy some serious 'porch time' with my feet propped up."
Welcome spring with inspiration and motivation from a book by Cyndy Salzmann. And save the date, April 8, for her Hastings presentation. Tickets are available now at the library.
