March 2025


Rachel Writes


It's that time of year again—the days are longer, inviting more time outdoors, which always feels refreshing and rejuvenating. This is my favorite season, as I enjoy the sense of freedom that comes with open windows, fresh air, and the cheerful sounds of children playing outside.


Recently, I had the opportunity to present a program at the University of Denver for a women's wisdom group on downsizing personal possessions—whether your own or those of a loved one now in your possession. We explored why sorting and thinning out the belongings behind our front doors so often falls to the bottom of our to-do lists. The discussion was highly engaging, prompting deep self-reflection on why we tend to avoid the task despite feeling the desire to tackle it.


One attendee shared that she would rather hike, ski, and spend time with her children and grandchildren than sift through years of accumulated "stuff and things." With sensitivity and support, I gently asked why she couldn't do both—enjoy her passions while also creating a timeline to declutter. Her response? "I guess the project needs a higher want." That statement reinforced the idea that discipline in any project, including downsizing, is ultimately a reflection of personal priorities. The key is to commit to what truly matters to us and to prioritize in a way that enhances our surroundings and well-being.


I invite you to join me on April 10 for a program on downsizing personal possessions. Together, we’ll explore why getting started is often the hardest part and discuss practical strategies to overcome hesitation and move forward with clarity and confidence. Please click here to register soon as space is limited.



Warmly,

Rachel  

Living with Loss, One Day at a Time

Zoom Workshop with Rachel

The Art of Managing Possessions: 

What to do with all your stuff?


Thursday, April 10 at 5p MT


If you're downsizing your personal belongings or sorting through a loved one’s possessions, this workshop will provide techniques that allow you to determine what to keep, what to share and what to donate.

Click here to register

Upcoming Events

Thursday, April 3

Candid discussion about Living with Loss, One Day at a Time

Zoom


Thursday, April 10

The Art of Managing Possessions: What to do with all your stuff?

Zoom

Calendar details here
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Financial Times Article

Clearing a loved one’s home after their passing is an emotional and overwhelming task, blending grief with logistical challenges. Hannah Shuckburgh of the Financial Times reflects on sorting through her late father’s belongings, questioning what to keep, what to discard and how to navigate this process, balancing practicality with sentimentality.

Read article

Camp Widow Documentary

Camp Widow the Documentary had its global debut at the SXSW Film and TV festival earlier this month in Austin, TX. The documentary will be available for free streaming on PBS’ Independent Lens on June 23rd, International Widows’ Day. This powerful film captures the heart of what makes Camp Widow® so special—the connections, the understanding, and the hope that widowed people find when they come together. Check back here for details on upcoming screenings in cities across the country.

Finding Peace, One Piece at a Time Podcast

Tune in to my podcast with Teresa, where we dive into my book Finding Peace One Piece at a Time. We explore the journey of sorting, thinning and repurposing personal possessions — finding meaning in the pieces we keep. Hope you enjoy and take away something insightful from the episode.

Listen to podcast

One-on-one downsizing consultation

Taking the first step to downsize your possessions doesn’t have to be difficult. Together we can build an approach to minimize the stress and uncertainty through a proven decision-making process to thin, sort and repurpose your belongings. Schedule a free 20-minute assessment with me today.

Schedule a free assessment today
 
 
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Book reviews help spread the word. Thanks in advance for providing your feedback:

Finding Peace, One Piece at a Time: Amazon | Good Reads
Living with Loss, One Day at a Time: Amazon | Good Reads
 
 
Rachel Kodanaz

Rachel is an author, speaker and advisor who provides encouragement to those who are suffering a loss or setback.

She has inspired thousands of people with her unique blend of writing, presentations and workshops. More information is available at rachelkodanaz.com


Contact Rachel: 303.619.3547 | rachel@rachelkodanaz.com

 
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