:carrot:Hi Ladies,

Just a quick drive by, I will try to be back later after work.

:carrot: loaded and unloaded dishwasher.
:carrot: Washed all quilts from cedar chest. (at least 50 years old)
:carrot: Off to post office to mail insurance documents and a late arrival christmas present.

Work rest of day, dinner planned and grocery run as we may be getting some more snow. May it come for the farmers and their efforts~

Hi declutterers!

A quick check in....I traveled very early this morning and the usual 2 hour commute was 3 with some pretty slippery roads. I was tired after lugging all my stuff into the house. Leaving it wasn't an option due to perishables and freezing weather. I AM remembering this trip is taxing on the bod due to extreme altitude fluxuations and I am more hungry on these days. I made a protein lunch and am going to try resting/listening to the radio for a bit before resuming.

old clutter-I will try to work on W-2's this afternoon. It would be nice to get them finished for my mom.

current clutter-I picked up all my stuff before leaving one space this morning and put everything away BEFORE doing anything else upon my return to my other space. credit.

clean-I will vacuum the room today where I had the cat boxes set out. I work tomorrow and everything else will wait.

Hi Ladies,

Ann, I wanted to thank you for sharing this simple truth:"I am just placing one foot in front of the other, it will all fall in place." I made this a card to remind me to keep on keeping on with the day to day. Glad when you post to let us know how you are doing.

OnebyOne: Kudos for getting so much done. I like clear boxes and clear ziplock bags for receipts. I am a visual person that likes to see what I have. Hope you are staying warm and cozy in your home.

Lexxiss: Anytime a 2 hour drive in the mountains takes 3 because of slippery roads, deserves some down time from the stress. I love how you keep plugging away. I am doing the same thing pushing the ball forward. Small movements make the goals possible.

Julia150: Thinking of you today, hope your appointment was helpful. Hope you are taking care of yourself from your great purge this weekend.
Hi to anyone I might of missed. Blessings on your efforts.

Off to make chili and fold laundry. Have a good night.

more
 

Hello :carrot: Movers and Shakers:

Short checkin:

cleaned the breakfast dishes so I didn't add to the pile-alos cleaned and cleared off counter for the evening

dealt with the old clutter of receipts in a bag. Sorted through the ones the guild owes me for tea room supplies. It wasn't much--like about 1/5th of what I have spent to supply the tea room over the last two years BUT I am re-starting so it's ok. It'll be more complete next year as I will be more organized with filing away the receipts this year.

Also discovered more receipts to do with my art business so will get to that tomorrow. Soon, if I keep this up, I will have made no money for the year. Oh well.

Managed to get some dishes done too-- could get them all done tomorrow. Yay.

Tami/HelpingRachel,
Thank you, the appointment went well. Something the counselor told me was kind of comforting. She said that some people like my parents who were born at the end of the depression/WWII are known to have not developed emotional intellect and aren't too good at nuturing. I don't know why that is comforting but it is.
Julia

Hi declutterers!

I slept in and work early today. Days like these I use flyladys technique of getting dressed(including shoes) before doing anything else. That way when I realize I need to be running out the door...I'll be dressed. lol I also have a more realistic expectation of what I can get accomplished, too.

Because I slept in my saboteur told me I didn't need to do anything. Today I understand with me it's about a daily ROUTINE.

So....

Today's 1-2-3 :dance:

old clutter-yesterdays current turned into today's old. I picked up my office desk of paperwork I unpacked yesterday. credit.

current clutter-made the bed, put away laundry, put away pile of shoes that had accumulated

clean-vacuumed kitchen and cleaned upstairs toilet

Julia, thanks for sharing your counselors insight. Coming from an emotionally detatched family it is a bit comforting.

onebyone, yay for continued sorting of receipts. It's really comforting to know that the past stuff doesn't have to be perfect because there is a plan set in place (and being executed) for current.

Home today as we had school cancelled because of a snow storm. I wrote my menu out on a pad of paper (thanks-Lexxiss) as I was ready to go on an eating binge with everything that wasn't tied down. No awareness of hunger. I guess I think snow days = calorie free days. Made a batch of kale and stuck in under my 1/2 cup of chili to feel full at lunch.

Clean- MBR- Hang all clothes and put away the one basket that I have been walking around for 3 days.

Old Clutter: File my invoices and admin. work for my Jan billing cycle. Put it back in it's home.

New Clutter: Wednesday is grocery ad day, need to cut out coupons and make my list for this week.

In a funk:dizzy: from this weather. I was sharing with my husband how much nature de- stresses me. I may fire up the snow blower to get the drifts out of the driveway just to get outside. Boss has me on a call at 3 for "The psychology of willpower-great white bear experiment". Should be interesting or at least stimulating.

Hello all. I am checking in. I don't get to read the thread every day but manage to get here once every couple of days and catch up. I keep trying to take away things from here that I learn and I think about these things lots. Right now I am working on skipping the middle step and putting it way at the moment I am done. Definitely a work in progress and a challenge. I am also trying to figure how to put it all together. Thank goodness for the advice of just jump in. Somedays I feel like I am a living breathing blob of chaos.

I am also realizing that working on this in conjunction with weight loss may be a good thing. I feel frustrated at my weight situation having gained since last fall and am now working on turning it around again. I have a long slow road ahead of me and focusing on the chaos (aka clutter) allows me to see progress when I might not see progress related to my body. And besides, I have always felt the two were related in my world.

Hope everyone is doing well.

Michele

Hi declutterers!

I have an entire day off and also have some heavy thoughts on my mind. My brother let me know last night that his hubby is in the throes of late stage alcoholism and is having a difficult go. As a recovering alcoholic, myself, I understand the difficulty AND the joy of getting to the other side. I have written my brother back and am hoping he will update me (after dr appt. later today)

So, the best thing I can do is take care of myself. My summer-helper is needing some work and my initial thought was to get him painting my tv room. I really thought it through (he tends to be a somewhat sloppy painter) AND my conclusion was:
"I am not ready for this project yet and doing it "just" to accommodate his financial situation is not where I need to be right now."

So, today, I will move forward AND feel my feelings.
Michele(znaoic), reading your post regarding decluttering and seeing progress where you might not see progress otherwise rings very true to me today. ...in a bit of a different context. Today, I can see progress at home while I live with the uncomfortable-ness of my DB/BIL's situation.
Tami(helping rachel), the weather this time of year is definitely "mood affecting" in my book. Yesterday morning's drive to work was quite miserable and my thought was to write a list of fun things to do when it was nice out again. Until then, I might as well keep forging ahead inside.

Todays 1-2-3 :dance:
Clean-cleaned in the kitchen including scrubbing sink.

Current clutter-picked up downstairs and WILL pick up in my office AFTER finishing my "old clutter" project

Old clutter-sometimes I just "get into something" and know it's time. This morning I opened a hutch next to my piano. It's been hiding piano music and an old vcr. I opened it because I was thinking about how I could put my small tv downstairs to use with my walking videos. I haven't figured it out but I have piano music strewn all over my dining room table.
It is a 1-2-3
1. Identify stuff I don't want-music I am not interested in but is destined for thrift.
2. Identify stuff that is recycle only
3. Put what I want to keep back in the cupboard and piano bench.

The bonus here was that I actually opened up the piano and played a few songs..."enrich your life" Dr. Beck says. It seems I never play because there is always too much undone "stuff" and because my music is a clutter bomb. It's a nice thought that my piano once again be used to it's true purpose instead of a giant catch all for clutter. credit.

Will be back later for indies....

Lexxiss: It's a blessing to see you practice self care in the midst of feeling sadness and pain with dear family members. Throws co-dependency right on its ear. I pulled out my list of what it looks like as a sober recovering co-dependent aka as Queen of Caretaking to revisit movements and check to see if I need to tweak anything. A reminder is helpful that we must take care of ourselves before we take care of anyone else.

Michelle- I have lots of thoughts about this but I am out the door for work...Be back with my 1-2-3- list and some insight that I have experienced.

Hi declutterers!

As is frequent with my "routine" (yes it is becoming routine) I start somewhere and one thing leads to the next. I got up early hoping to finish the company paperwork but a question which came up can only be answered by my mom during regular business hours. So I moved on to some cleaning and decluttering.....

Today's 1-2-3 :dancer:

clean-big bookcase in living room...quite dusty

old clutter-weeded out quite a few more books as I cleaned the bookcase

current clutter-I picked up the kitchen last night and 1/2 took care of my office this morning. I will finish once bookwork is done.

The bookcase looks and feels better. No need for outdated travel books...we'd acquire new ones if we ever decided to go anywhere. Weeded out a few more cookbooks which no longer synch with the way we eat.

I'm really going to try to get all the stuff to thrift today....it's in piles right now.

Up and going in this beautiful -5 weather. (Not)

Laundry in while coffee brewing.

MBR dusted/bed made before I go out the door.

Planning on filing when I get home tonight during my favorite Friday night shows.

Grateful that I am 10 lbs lighter than the 1st day of January. I need to fire up new thoughts and goals for February. I would like to include a consistent exercise routine as I am all over the place. I love water aerobics with a kind and encouraging teacher. They teach Zumba in the water as well. I looked up the schedule and need to put action behind that knowledge.

Hope you have a blessed day, Declutters.......Shedders of things to the real you.

Greeting Declutterers,

Lexxiss/Debbie-so sorry to hear about your BIL. My dad died an alcoholic (probably a contributing factor but not the direct cause) Do take care of yourself and be gentle. Good choice on not hiring a sloppy painter to meet his/hers financial needs. I find when I do that, I end up kicking myself later. Peace with your decision..NO GUILT!
I've not been doing my daily dance for the last 3 days. You are so right that it has to be "no choice" for me. I need to do at least the 5 minute dance whether I feel like it or not. Thanks for being such a good role model aby reporting your "walking the walk" everyday.

Tami Winter sucks, that's all I have to say. Well done on the 10 January pounds gone. :carrot: That is such a milestone! Biggg credits. You are so right saying we have to take care of ourselves before we can take care of others. That's part of why I'm suffering emotionally now, as a family we went through a huge crisis lasting a year and a half. Dad's death was the straw that broke the camels back.

Michele I learn alot on this thread too. I also feel motivated and inspired when I read about other people's progress. Chaos is the exact word to describe my home. Little by little, step by step...

OnebyOne, IBelieveInMe2, Ann- I hope all is going well with you.

JuliaGettingBackTo1-2-3

Hi declutterers!

Quick check in..I'm drinking my smoothie and off to work. I thought I had a food event last eve and despite my best efforts the casserole was a flop; the eggs didn't set and even as I tried to fix it in my frying pan it was yuk. I came up with plan B and set out to p/u my friend. In the car I remembered it was Feb 1 and the potluck was last Fri. of the month. :lol:

Came home to the big mess...looked and absolutely pitched the entire mess. The old me would have tried to figure out how to freeze it for something later. It just wasn't going to happen. It was bad and nothing would fix it. credit for not cluttering the freezer with inedibles.

Woke up late this morning and decided to 1-2-3 anyway NO CHOICE

1. old clutter-took vita c packs from upstairs bathroom downstairs where they belong
2. current clutter-made bed, put away yesterday's clothes, picked up dining room table.
2. clean-washed my bedroom nightstand, washed the small drawer in my fridge, cleaned up cat barf.

I'm so glad I cleaned up the kitchen mess last night. I was very grateful not to have to wake up to it.

Happy Saturday!

Lexxiss I got a laugh out of the flopped casserole that you didn't need anyway.
Today's 1-2-3
Old Clutter-Saturday project-dejunk basement closet under the stairs
New Clutter-get packages mailed to Mom and DS
Clean-So many choices

Out of the door to watch my DD give a speech for a State DECA leadership conference. Dishwasher done, laundry done---will put it away when I get back.

My clean will be the floor in the shower/bathroom area-MBR. You could weave a small toupe out of the hair on the floor. And my husband is bald---Yikkes!

Have a good Saturday.

Hi declutterers!

Julia, yay for getting back to a 1-2-3!

Tami (helping rachel), I used to gripe (to myself) because DH trimmed his beard everywhere. Then a few months ago I got down on the bathroom floor to give it a real cleaning....it was my hair that was all over. Now I try to be neater about it....stepping up to the plate, I guess.

After anticipating a quiet day at home I was called in to work. My coworker had a little too much fun last night and texted me a 130am. It works for me because she'll trade me for a Saturday after her DH returns to Alaska and I'll be able to spend an extended weekend poolside.

Recognizing I wouldn't have the day off I hopped into a brief 1-2-3
Old clutter-put away some old cassette tapes I had decided to keep. Washed a crystal candle thingie from the bookcase and put it in thrift. Threw away a multi plug electrical outlet I determined is defunct.

Current clutter-picked up, doing laundry right now

Clean-cleaned out the cat box.

I had a nice surprise this morning...I was looking on the floor for my work pants...discovered I had folded them and put them in the drawer. An automatic response I don't remember yet a good sign.

Hey Declutterers:

Alert: Lots of detail here. I like to process my decluttering and dejunking.

Another busy Saturday project! DH,DD and I cleaned out the closet under the basement stairs. No treasures, just a lot of "Why is this in here?" Cleaned out the game/toy closet as well. We had a whole truck load of stuff for the dump and a big load for good will. We didn't put it off, we went as soon as we had a load. Also the library got a bunch of kids books for their sale.

I did keep some things that will probably not make the cut later. I used to do dried flower arrangements. (that hobby didn't last too long) My sister-in-law was able to get wholesale dried flowers for me. I have boxes of dried flowers that I don't just want to throw away. I'm going to sort through them and consolidate into fewer boxes if possible. Maybe they will get donated someday. I can think about this one for awhile. I kept some of my son's first duplo blocks, their first puzzles and a box of toy cars, barbie clothes (why?). I guess I kept some memories that I wasn't able to part with just yet. It takes up less than a shelf in the game closet. If I ever have grandchildren, they will be nice to pass on or have to play at grandma's house. I am crying as I write this, I miss my little ones now that they are 18 and 20.

On to a lighter note. My DH is an engineer. He has brought home so many electronic things from work and has always been a collecter of gadgets. I found a box of old portable dvd players (I think there were 4 of them-none working). Yesterday he sorted through 2-3 boxes of power cords and wires. I'm don't think that many are getting thrown away but I'm going to keep my mouth shut. They are sorted, bagged in ziplocks and labeled. We've already destroyed 3 computers (2 laptops) and donated for salvage. We've been through all the rooms and closets down there except for the storage room. I have decorations for all seasons that can be weeded out and lots of other unknown junk.

Old clutter: the basement project continues
New clutter: recycled pop cans around the house.
Clean: dishes

Today's plan:
Clean: family room (vacuum/dust/etc)
New clutter: newspapers, pay bills
Old clutter: finish yesterday's project (putting odds and ends away)

Julia
p.s. I just heard the cat barf. I can add that to my clean list if the dog doesn't get to it first. :)

Yay Julia! Thanks for the detail, including the part about shedding some tears. This is an emotional process with great rewards. Glad that your DH is participating, too. There are sentimental things we will "save" and that's ok. There are also sentimental things we will choose to let go of and that's ok, too. Items like your dried flowers can sit until you have the right answer. When you are hauling so much stuff out you will have so much more space, anyway.

Me:
Woke up with resolve to finish the company books 100%. DONE! (old clutter)

I have done the dishes and will make the bed (current clutter)
I didn't make any messes yesterday!

clean-sweep the landing at the top of my stairs and upstairs bathroom. This will take 2 minutes.

Hi All!

Plugging away at weight loss and de-cluttering goals for February. I cleaned my first floor in an hour today. I am realizing that that area is almost in "maintenance" stage. Most of the clutter is done from 6 rooms so it is easy to get in there and pick-up/dust/vacuum. I cleaned and organized my 2 son's room on 2nd level. Both closets are in need of a good decluttering.

Lexxiss: Wow! Reading "company's books 100% done" makes me happy to see the results from your consistent-staying power to git-R-done!.

Julia: You are making amazing progress in the basement. Sending hugs for those tears of memories with your kids. I have custom bowling balls from my deceased mother that I hope one day, a grandkid might like. I have a sewing project in the attic and I am not ready to give it up .......yet.......so it sits......maybe someday.

I have out my beck book tonight and am digging deep for a new focus for February to go with my CBT thoughts. If I land on anything, I will post ....at least my nose isn't in the ice cream.

Quick check in
Guess What? I have lost 15.2 pounds since early November. DD noticed and commented (unsolicited)on my slightly smaller size this morning. Yesterday was a pretty good day. DH took 2 big boxes of electronic waste and extra cords to Goodwill. WhooHoo for him
Yesterday:
Clean: vacuumed family room, dusted all but bookshelves, swept and damp mopped kitchen and laundry and powder room. cleaned toilet, counter and sink in powder room.
Old clutter: retirement statements left on coffee table for 2 weeks after they were entered on spread sheet shredded.
New clutter: newspapers to recycle bag, clothes washed and folded
Lexxiss-WTG on 100% done. What a great feeling! Were you really posting at 3:51 am? You must get up before the chickens.
TamiHaving a whole floor in the maintenance stage? What an accomplishment! I'm looking forward to the day...

Current clutter: put stuff back in place after using family room to work out to a video. (lame, I know)
Old clutter: Throw away some trash from the phone desk
Clean: dishes/countertop

See ya tomorrow.
Julia

Hi! Oh gosh, I really need to do this challenge. Here's the deal, pickles. I live in a tiny Japanese apartment that got away from me about halfway through my first year, and it's been crazy trying to wrangle it ever since. It's not good. Not good at all. Some of the trouble comes from the fact I need to toss some big bulky items out--well, I keep putting it off, because I don't want anyone to see the clutter around the bulky items. Plus, I need to call a company to pick them up and each item costs money--so I have to time it right.

So, that's going to be a major goal for me. I'll make it February's goal: Get the bulky items picked up and out from the apartment.

The clutter needs to go. I know one way to do it... "Do I need it immediately? Is it easy to replace?" For stuff like craft/school supplies... "Is this going home with me?" For things I don't want to leave in Japan. "Can I give this to a friend? Will she/he actually want it?"

The other reason I need to tackle the clutter is because of my fridge. It's tiny. It's very difficult to get things sorted out (or will be) to a routine that will work with my diet plan. It's nutritarian. That requires copious amounts of veggies... right now, it's cold enough, I can keep them out on the counter and they're okay. Once Spring comes, so too does the mold. You can't leave ANYTHING out, unless you want to come back in an hour or two and see it start growing hair or turning colors. Ugh!

I may invest in another fridge. The place is tiny... so I cannot have bulky furniture in the way.

Hi declutterers!

Welcome Nerdlass! Noting Japan, I'm certain your apt. is very small. Kudos for recognizing that you need to get to basics. We're here to lend an ear and it sounds like you're off to a great start.

Julia, yay for posting two days worth of progress forward! In my opinion, nothing we do is "lame". My 3 minute floor job yesterday DID move me forward. Congrats again on that scale movement.

Tami (helping rachel), I'm interested to hear what you find in your Beck book! Yay for a downstairs that is almost to maintenance stage! (me, too)

Me:

old clutter-hauled the trash, recycle and bag of cat box (stuff) out to the porch while coffee was brewing. Final destination: car for transport to the upper street. Too heavy and bulky for back stairs walking when I'm home alone.

current clutter-picked up 70%

clean-cleaned out my compost container and am hoping to have time to swipe down kitchen cupboards and countertop before heading out to work.

I reflected over my cup of coffee, that it's been exactly one year since I sent DH away so I could sand and finish the hardwood floor downstairs with the final goal of having the new carpet I had dreamed of for years. Now that it's done I marvel everytime I look at it. It would have never become reality except for my commitment to declutter. I'm grateful.

It seems that finishing the company books was the end to that "year". I feel more relaxed and am looking forward to a new goal for 2013.....the first time ever since starting that bookwork in 2003.

In 2013 I will do the books monthly....All I will need to do in Jan. 2014 is run reports. credit.

Gotta get ready for work!

all over the map
 

Hello Decluttering Buddies:

Well I've been busy cleaning up and prettifying/reclaiming a space I don't live in but am (voluntarily) responsible for. I planned, arranged, and participated in the painting of the 15.5' x 20' tea room for the potters' guild I am member of. I am the tea room manager and OMG who knows when that room was painted and the colour in there sucked all the life out of you. I chose the paint colours, bought all the supplies, asked for volunteers (who came through for me) and I started last Wednesday and the painting was completed on Saturday with a 1st stab at putting everything back into palce yesterday. I had some kidn of a delayed reaction to the stress of the whole thing and my mind just went NO CAN DO and I left after just simply getting the tables and chairs back into their spots. The final straw was that the last two tables (there are 7 total), all of which have a layer of glass on top of them, well the corners of the glass kissed ever so gently and a 1" piece just cracked off. OMG. Another chore to do I thought. And that was it. I went home. Prior to this I had alos had a long conversation with OMG so many Big Plans that I want to implement, that I've started to work on. Why the HECK am I DOING all this I ask?!? On "good" days it's effortless but when I am feeling like I can't get myself righted, let alone sailing off into some kind of direction, the thought that all this other work is more organized just drives me nuts.

I am not taking care of myself.

And if I am not taking care of myself then I am sure to fall off that wagon which has been travelling the rut in the road for far too long. I am taking steps to change course but geez louise it's not easy.
Oh well.

DH did do some dishes and with the tea room painted that's one big project done and gone. *credit* My next goal is to remove the boxes from the table under the dining room window so I have a place to set up my seed trays since soon I'll be starting seeds for my community garden plot. I have also started another donations box with 2 items in it so far. *credit*

Thats all folks.

only good update yet!
 

Well, I'm checking in and mostly have read posts of all you awesome people who are doing something to declutter your lives, you are an inspiration! :carrot:

So, for the first time in a while I managed to clean up and declutter with enthusiasm....still had to take down my Christmas stuff, finally did! Then I sorted a stack of boxes that's been lurking, sorted and took care of most of my random clothes, and took 2 bags and 2 boxes to thrift....all in all, pretty good. Made at least one bag of trash too!

Still have the clothes in my room to do, that can be done tomorrow!! Will look so much better!

Hello declutterers!

NightAngel, kudos for progress with decluttering, especially finding "enthusiasm". For me, participating with others here has fueled that enthusiasm which has been life changing.

onebyone, kudos for completing the tea room project. carrot: I'm sorry about the chipped table...don't be too hard on yourself. It's really ok. Perhaps you could transfer your success at the tea room to an "I can do this" at home (and with your food plan).
As a "recovering volunteer" :lol: I can share this. There are infinite opportunites for going out in the universe and accomplishing many things for others, and don't get me wrong, these are all good. What I finally had to do in order to start the process of "learning" to "take care of myself" was to finish the outside commitments I had made to others then start saying NO CHOICE to the new ones in order to free space so learn to take care of me. The difficulty with the outside projects is that because I was responsible to others' my home and food life suffered. Now that I have whittled it down to "basics" (a bit painful) I am able to have more of the 12 step mindset First Things First.
Anyway, you did a great job and I wish I could visualize the finished results a bit better.
I hope you have a more settled day today and can find yourself a little more grounded.

Me, I have success to share today. This morning I really felt the "freedom" of being decluttered, organized and clean. I work today then have 4 days off to go over and hang with DH and the pup. I do think they'll return with me on Sunday eve.
I don't have anything "to do" other than to pack. I am going to put my stuff in the car before work then walk out the door at 330 and head right over. I truly feel today that my daily progress has finally shifted me from dysfunction to functional. I am grateful.

So Todays 1-2-3
old clutter-nothing today
current clutter-entire house picked up laundry is in bed is made
clean-scrubbed my kitchen sink

For me, my daily 1-2-3, forces me to learn to take care of myself on a daily basis.
Thanks for being here everyone!

Hello declutterers!

Sometimes I think I won't post when I'm the only one here but in my journey here it seems it's important for me to keep making that daily plan and this is where I do it. credit.

I traveled yesterday then went grocery shopping as soon as I arrived. Everything got plunked down and we went to bed early. I woke up early...restless...and came out of the bedroom to a big mess...everywhere.
I had some big emotions around this...this used to be my home base and now I just visit. DH may or may not come back with me and I'm already very sad to leave my pup behind since he's sick and we don't really know "how long he has".

I knew I had two choices:
1. leave it all "as is" and live out of a tote for 4 days
2. pick up, put away and enjoy my time here.

I chose #2 and put everything away...cleaned out the fridge then went back to bed. When I re-woke it all felt alot better....even knowing I'll have to leave soon.

I'm going to ENJOY some old clutter today. When I was on the other side I noticed some missing knitting needles....circular not cheap. In the old days I'd just go buy more. Instead, I decided I'd relocate them. As suspected, they are on some unfinished hats in a container from ??4 years ago. I could rip them off or finish the hats. Today I'll finish the hats and my pup can snuggle with me on the couch. Yay!

so:
old clutter-finish hats
current clutter-Done
clean-cleaned out refrigerator...there's always more to clean but it can wait until tomorrow.

:hug:Lexxiss:

Your posts are a ray of bright sunshine in my life. Thank you for sharing your journey as I witness your story it helps me to know that I am connected.

You shared this the other day..... This morning I really felt the "freedom" of being decluttered, organized and clean.

That was gasoline in my tank to know if I keep doing the small stuff I will get to the other side. Wisdom from experience is the only way that can be shared.

I have had a very touch week, my Dad called and said he was getting remarried and plowed right over my feelings. I reminded him of what happened in his last marriage (she took him for a ride) and he disconnected from everyone of his kids. I struggle with the feeling of abandonment and lack of provision from him. I shut down for a day but now I am back moving. I have not eaten off plan but wanted to pull into every McDonald's that I passed and dreamed about eating a whole pan of brownies.

I have a saying "What is it about you that I am using as an excuse not to live my life by my values" ? Meaning -that I can be affected by people, (humanness) but I don't have to let them derail my sense of self and my values.

I have kicked in some self care movements like going to bed early, reading a book, keeping the house picked up. Too overwhelmed to add a big declutter project right now. The stormy sea will settle or at least I am adjusting my sails.

:hug:OnebyOne: Glad to see you posting again. What a beautiful expression of caring for the community by painting and keeping the tea room running. If I lived close, I would love to come by and buy you a cup of tea.

:hug:Julia150: 15.2 lbs! since November. I hope you are holding your accomplishment with joy. I wonder how much declutter weight you lost....5 lbs for each box, 10 lbs for each bag. Let me know!

:hug:Welcome Nerdlass! I love that you use the word pickles. We are here to support you as you work toward your Feb. goal.

:hug:Hi NightAngel: Way to trash and thrift! Less clutter to clean up. I have our christmas tree still up at the cabin. I told my husband I would take it down in March....:)

:hug: Sending out good thoughts to Ibelieveinme2, Ann, Michele. Michele, I am still thinking of how weight loss and decluttering go together.

Off to do something. Basement stairs vacuumed, Kitchen floor mopped. Counters wiped clean. That is it.

Micro de-cluttering: I just said 'No' to a three-year renewal for a magazine at a REALLY GOOD PRICE. Hated to miss the bargain but, actually, I don't like the magazine and only get it because some three years ago I subscribed for a REALLY GOOD PRICE. Methinks I see a trend here.

Anyway, CREDIT moi for 36 issues that won't stack up waiting to be read.

going forward
 

Decluttering Buddies

Actually that greeting is entirely *inaccurate* as I don't have any buddies I want to declutter... so, instead, let me say Hi!

Well, I am *thrilled* to have found a solution to my in-home composting dilemma. Ever since I moved here the garbage rules of this town have confounded me. I still can't figure out where/how best to place my garbage can, but nevermind that as I solved my composting troubles. I have large green bin that I bought from the town when I moved here. It's required. It's for all compostables. The problem with it is that the composting bags (and the town will only take away compostable bags) are really big and by the time you have used them for a few days, the bottom falls out of them, leaving you with a smelly mess and/or a yukky bin when they've emotied it. So I bought a small compost bin, with a lid that you pus in with your hand but DH HATED it and said the lid is always open ie. smelly and we have very very little counter space so, where to put the thing? I liked the smaller size cause it was more manageable but then we started composting the kitty litter and we were back to the big green bin. The small one ended up without the swinging lid in the new pantry holding all the garbage bags and such. Well, this morning I pulled out the small bin and lined it with a small compost bag and used it to gather the scraps from my veggies today. And then I PUT THE WHOLE SMALL BIN inside the big bin. *amazing* I get to use the small bin, it gets to stay intact inside the small bin and the smells get contained int eh big bin and if the small bin fills up, I pull out the bag, drop it in the bottom of the big bin, and sit the small bin on top of it--maybe on a cardboard "shelf"/insert. SO GREAT. I feel like a genius.

And on that note, the dishes are waiting for me. Almost done and will be done today *credit*

A new decluttering plan is coming for me. Spring is coming afterall.

Bye.

Checking in and so encouraged to hear from my buddies :lol: This is often a lonely process and the keeping each other company is priceless to me. I am knitting and taking care of phone business....typing from iPhone ...not gray for long posts. bbl

Ps attaching pic of pup helping w/ knitting

OBO --Glad I am not being decluttered.

Love the picture of your knitting and your companion-helper-snuggler!

Originally Posted by Lexxiss:
..typing from iPhone ...not gray for long posts. bbl

:lol: ...not GREAT for long posts....I'm also not great at catching the auto spells, either, although I do find them useful for texting.

BBE, I think NOT renewing a 3 yr subscription is a BIG DEAL! Kudos! Realistically, I do not find the mags as interesting as they used to be...so many ads....

Tami (helping rachel), I am glad you are taking care of yourself during this rough emotional time. It is so hard to accept some of the seemingly obvious kooky things our family/loved ones engage (no pun intended) in...especially when they have further reaching consequences. I guess the thought popped into my head (which is what I'm doing in my own home) is "all the more important to make MY home an OASIS (thx onebyone).

onebyone, Yay! for finding a solution to your composting dilemma. I, too, compost and it's always been about finding that solution that works between the kitchen and it's final resting place. I find it's a big part of having a workable kitchen.
In Alaska it was too cold to compost very well and here we have an issue w/skunks/raccoons/bears. On the East side I have one of those plastic fancy rotating ones in the yard to keep the critters out and on the West side I just pitch it into a little fenced pile out the back door. More than once, I have opened the back door to a skunk...pretty cool as long as the pup is in the house.

Well I finished the brown hat...but it was pretty imperfect so I just took it apart. Saw some boo boos in the green one before I even started so took it apart, too. Needles are reclaimed and I'm enjoying what I wanted to knit in the first place.
Had a nice afternoon browsing the RESTORE upvalley. It's incredible...gets all the Aspen rejects...absolutely incredible furniture . I bought two pillows and may purchase several more. (credit for not buying the rest until I make sure they'll work) I have been looking for replacement pillows for the antique couch for months now and think these are the ones. Shimmery gold...will connect with the brass fireplace cover and large picture frame above the mantle. It will be another piece of the puzzle as I reclaim my "space".
Well goodnight...

Thanks for the supportive response, Lexxiss. This I know the resources and the provision that I had as a child are quite different than the resources and support that I have as an adult. A grown a$$ adult that I choose to be!! That is ok with me, I will journey on and prepare for care and competence with what I was put on earth to do. Connection is in the mix. Thanks for getting me!!

Blessing sent out to all my friends who are struggling with life and focus. May you find peace within. Your story matters and you matter. Each and everyone of you.

Quick post, hope to get back here after working all day.

Cleaned Utility Room, Mopped, Dusted, Wiped down washer and dryer. I also organized cleaning products.

Made DD breakfast this am, cleaned sink-dishes and off I go.

quicky here, too.
Current clutter-done
Old clutter-went through a kitchen cupboard and pitched
Clean-will clean mentioned cupboard

Greetings declutterers,

I have been reading but not posting the last few days. I've had a tough work week. I had to make a CPS referral on a student today. I was one of a group of staff making the call so I wasn't alone but it is a horrible feeling. The child in question is not being abused physically but the situation is just sick. I don't know if anything will be investigated but it would have been negligent to not do it.
I haven't been doing 1 & 2 but I have been keeping the dishes done (3). The big weekend projects have made progress both in the house and my mind.
Tami, a big hug to you. I'm so sorry your dad's choices have set you on your heels emotionally.
OnebyOne Kudos on all your recent project! It's hard, I agree, to put yourself first. I will give my job my best efforts and settle for what ever I have energy for for myself. This week, work sucked the life out of me.
Debbie, you may feel alone here sometimes but I am reading everyday and your success inspires me.
I just want to order some comfort food, watch a silly movie and relax tonight. I marinated salmon for DH and DD, so comfort food is probably not in the plans.
JuliaInAFunk

Good Morning.

Julia150: Sorry to hear of your stressful week. Glad our school systems have advocates like you in place. It matters to provide help.


Not much going on here. I plan to work in my office and craft area today. Labeling and putting like items together. I was working on an art project yesterday and couldn't find metallic pens. Made me frustrated which leads me to a new project to get organized.

Decluttering involves our minds as well. Planning on mid afternoon nap today.

Hi decluttering friends!

Julia, I hope the weekend has found a little relaxation for you!

Tami(helping rachel), best wishes with your project today. PS I hate when I have an idea than can't locate an important piece.

Me, had a big shut down yesterday. Today, back at it. I had to bake a cake for an auction and CREDIT didn't have to clean the kitchen first. I picked up the mess right after.

I travel later today so current clutter will be packed or put in place. No old clutter this trip. I'm sure something awaits for my return. lol

greetings declutterers,
I did nothing around my house yesterday. I just took a day to vegetate. I am feeling better about the CPS call. I am hoping that CPS doesn't just set it aside as a report (as they do sometimes when physical abuse or neglect isn't involved) This kid is vulnerable because of his disabilities.

Actually I did do something. I paid bills for the month (hence cleaning a stack of papers off the countertop!) and worked out a budget. Having 2 kids in college next year is going to be a shock to our system. DH has been resistant to being careful but I think I got his attention.

Tami Oh I so understand the frustration of not being able to find something. It happens here daily. Just yesterday DH and I went to the hardware store to get a tool he is pretty sure he already has but is unable to locate. And I agree, sometimes the mind needs to be decluttered also!

DebbieKudos for not having to clean before you bake. And cleaning up afterward! As I say to you everyday, you inspire me.

Today's plan:
Clean kitchen, dishes have been neglected.
Old clutter: finish the stuff left over in the basement from last week
New clutter: Weed out last weeks mail for junk vs important stuff.

After the last few weekend's big projects I need to remember to just bite off small chunks of dejunking. Otherwise, I run out of time and energy and end up with more mess to have to work around.

Four days until we leave for Phoenix. The weather forecast is for sun and temps in the upper 60's. I am so excited to get out of this gloom and to see my SIL.

JuliaWithRenewedEnergy

p.s. weight is at 197.5, lowest I've been for at least 4 years. I've lost a total of 12.5 since January 10th!