Every spring, nature shows us how to have a new beginning. All around us, new buds are forming and flowers pop up from the ground. It's nature's way of saying, “out with the old and in with the new!”

Our version of spring's new beginning is the tradition of “spring cleaning.” When the pollen's gone and the windows are open, our thoughts turn to getting our home in order and refreshing our surroundings. It's the best time of the year to get rid of the unused, clean what's left, and get organized for the months to come.

Are you ready for your own spring cleaning?

To help you get started, here are seven steps that will ensure your spring cleaning is worth every minute you devote to it.

Get rid of the clutter. Stop saving those magazines  you just can't get to and those long-expired coupons. If there's a ...