Michelle, you've hit on the trick that is good for small children. All of the toys don't need to be out at once. It's a good idea to have a place to store 1/2 to 2/3 of them, and every few weeks exchange an equal number. They'll be like new again. That worked with my kids.

Stage two of my organic weed control took place today. I'm using the mix of 1 gallon 10% vinegar, a couple of ounces of orange oil, a tsp of detergent, and a tablespoon of molasses. Mix it so the molasses dissolves, then spray it on the turf while the lawn is still dormant and it is just the weeds growing. I used a gallon over the weekend and can see where the weeds died, so went over the gaps and then extended my spray to the next zone. And in a couple of more days, I'll do that again. If I can get those weeds out now it'll make the garden easier to keep weed free during gardening season. Fewer seeds and less spreading. No toxic bagged weedkiller that compromises the health of the soil and the garden.

I've had another brainstorm as far as how to make the house look less cluttered. I'm debating where the bulk of the objects that sit on crowded living room shelves and around the house should be stored. (This is much like the advice to Michelle - every so often put away what is out and take out some of the other items for display). I built shelves for Moonglow years ago and I want them back now. Probably for my sewing and craft stuff, because some of the glass and crystal won't fit in there. I have a cupboard in the sun room I could use for the crystal and glass, but the contents would have to be moved out. That's where the lion's share of the craft stuff lives. If I do this, I'll probably thin it out.

There's a lot of stuff in the way in the sun room before I begin such a task. So . . . my work is cut out for me.

SRS