BS: 2010-Jan De-clutter & accountability ^^^

Subject: RE: BS: 2010-Jan De-clutter & accountability ^^^
From: maeve
Date: 09 Jan 10 - 02:01 PM

Michelle and all- I'm here, thinking of you all and continuing to breathe. My Truelove found me a warm amethyst handwoven cape at the thrift shop, and I realized I have a Book of Kells pewter brooch found in the ashes by one of the firefighters...perfect blending of old and new favorite things.

maeve

Subject: RE: BS: 2010-Jan De-clutter & accountability ^^^
From: LilyFestre
Date: 09 Jan 10 - 01:55 PM

Sloppy Joes sound GOOD especially for a cold winter day....might have to make a crock pot of that for us!

SRS......I've got my fingers crossed for you and your son and that scholarship, what a GREAT thing that would be!!!!

Kat....hope you are listening to your Doc and are taking it easy! I'm learning that it can be hard to do that and especially asking someone to do things you normally do yourself (like the dishes)! They are starting a qi gong class in our area and I think of you every time I see the ad in the paper.

Catherine...you're rocking!

Susan, I too have a stash of fabric. My most recent excitement was over a bird covered fabric that reminds me of my Nana and the curtains she had in her kitchen and over the blank spots above the cabinets near the ceiling (there's a word for it but I can't think of it at the moment...soffet I think). It probably would remind you of the wall paper in your living room. It brings back some very fond memories for me and I intend to make curtains for my office with it. As for what it's all about for me and what makes my world work a little smoother....I know it's simple, but a clean counter top, sink and clear kitchen table. When those things are in order, I can think more clearly and therefore get more done. Of course, they aren't always clear...but they do make my world run smoother. :)

Michelle

Subject: RE: BS: 2010-Jan De-clutter & accountability ^^^
From: wysiwyg
Date: 09 Jan 10 - 10:08 AM

By the time we leave for our Sat. svc. late this afternoon, my office will be carpeted.

Also, though, my friend's Xmas tree will be stored, our men will be happy with all the praise they get, food, and guytime they enjoy, and my galpal and I will have enjoyed some much-needed galtime and pizza-- she's not used to getting galtime and is only now starting to realize how badly she needs it!

The respective households' doggies also will have received their favorite entertainment/treats. My pick-either-one-of-two office doggies will have a nice thick, warm spot under my desk to hang out-- while I put back everything I neatly stored as I stripped the office so the men could lay the rug "sans furniture" as they requested. It's not a mess to sort. It's stuff I love and know exactly where it goes, in bunches MY fibromyalgia-healing shoulders can handle BY MYSELF.

The matching fabric is all set out for Hardi's favorite sewing project-- an enormous roll-up shade to cut heat loss. I see the designers do this all the time-- take a horrendous color and decorate around it so it looks like it was chosen on purpose? The rug is an odd color, but it was free. And I DO have, on hand, fabric that puts just the right amount of that color with all the other colors in that room-- fabric I chose long ago because I liked it! There will be enough for the shade where the window freezes me, plus at least a back pillow for the rocking chair allocated to that room.


The lesson I take from this is that for each of us, it's all about the [insert yours here]. For me, it's all about the fabric and the system. I stockpile fabric, but not other non-used stuff-- and I always find a use for it eventually in this move-often, rental-housing paradigm. The system is one I adopted as a young lass-- never buy anything I cannot move by myself if need be. Learned that from my ma. The hard way.


What is it "all about," for you? What is the one thing (or two) that, as long as you keep your eye on that ball, makes the rest WORK in your world? (In practical terms.)

~Susan

Subject: RE: BS: 2010-Jan De-clutter & accountability ^^^
From: Catherine Jayne
Date: 09 Jan 10 - 10:02 AM

double exercise class this morning....an hours spinning and an hours body pump.

Subject: RE: BS: 2010-Jan De-clutter & accountability ^^^
From: Stilly River Sage
Date: 09 Jan 10 - 01:58 AM

Winter is definitely here. It's about 12 right now in Fort Worth. Not what we're used to.

This weekend we're finishing the Gates Millennium Scholarship application. I had to call to get some information and ended up asking a few more questions of the guy. This is "the scholarship of all scholarships," he said, and described how it can be renewed for 10 years, through a Ph.D. Wow. And here I was just looking at the undergrad program. The idea is for a kid to go through school without having to work (take time from studies) or take out loans. Thousands apply, I'm not sure how many are chosen. Fingers crossed!

SRS

Subject: RE: BS: 2010-Jan De-clutter & accountability ^^^
From: katlaughing
Date: 08 Jan 10 - 10:55 PM

Didn't do anything but a little bit on the PC, nap, PC, nap, Lunch, PC, nap, etc. all day. We've had an air inversion for a couple of days which have caused problems for anyone with breathing issues...it's been hard to catch my breath outside, so I've stayed home. It's been in the 20s for over a month and got to 10 below last night which is unheard of here. Supposed to be colder tonight. I was up a lot last night, so I guess it caught up with me, today. I slept a lot and feel much better.

Tomorrow we will finish putting away the rest of the linen, wash dishes, run some errands. The ironing will have to wait. My doc said I really did a doozy on my rotator cuff..pulled one of the muscles and it is very sore and other muscles are sore trying to compensate for it, so...gentle qi gong and careful housework. Rog might even have to do teh dishes.:-)

Subject: RE: BS: 2010-Jan De-clutter & accountability ^^^
From: maire-aine
Date: 08 Jan 10 - 09:30 PM

I really wanted to go out to the session tonight; I am really missing playing with a group. But, I also wanted to stay home and stay warm. Since it is 23F (-5C) now, and supposed to go down to 12F (-11C) overnight, I'm at home. It's supposed to "warm up" into the 30s by Tuesday, so I'll go out then.

Made a pot of Sloppy Joes; had some for supper & some went into the freezer. Freezer is filling up.

M

Subject: RE: BS: 2010-Jan De-clutter & accountability ^^^
From: Stilly River Sage
Date: 08 Jan 10 - 04:15 PM

Virginia, VPN has a big downside, as I experienced a year ago during the holidays. I put in a new cable Internet line (had ultra slow DLS that had to go) and at logon the computer was combatting between my university VPN client and the new modem. To sort it out I uninstalled the VPN software, to reinstall once the connection was stable. That night I turned off the computer and after that it wouldn't turn on, I couldn't even get a blinking cursor. I think it eviscerated my WinXP Pro. I ended up rebuilding the computer (since I was going to have to reinstall the OS and all of the software, I might as well do it on a bigger, faster hard drive!)

Just so you know (as they say, "careful what you wish for.")

Humidity super low, doesn't help dry skin on hands. That is an ongoing problem. I'm using the dishwasher more, and wearing gloves a lot.

I agree about being acclimated to the weather. In my home state of Washington I would be just fine with the temperatures and conditions now, but since I haven't been exposed to much cold like this for a long time, my system is rather assaulted by it. And though the dogs wanted to spend time outside this afternoon (it is sunny), it was about 24 and I left them out for only about 20 minutes.

I had an "ah-ha!" moment this morning, when I remembered all of these wool lap robes (several from my great aunt's house, and one a gift from my sister after a trip to Scotland) I have in an under the bed zipper case. I pulled out three or four and scattered them on chairs and couches around the house. This way the thermostat doesn't need to be adjusted if you can wrap up in a shawl.

SRS

Subject: RE: BS: 2010-Jan De-clutter & accountability ^^^
From: VirginiaTam
Date: 08 Jan 10 - 04:00 PM

who said I was resting. I have been stressing over work from office and not having VPN access to things I need.

Should be able to set it up this weekend.

Hanging in there with you Michelle.

Subject: RE: BS: 2010-Jan De-clutter & accountability ^^^
From: LilyFestre
Date: 08 Jan 10 - 03:16 PM

Active morning with routine chores....counters cleared and cleaned, mail sorted, all downstairs floors swept, bathroom mopped and a load of laundry done.

Got together with some girl friends from high school for a few hours. One of them just adopted a baby girl so I got to hold Audrey, who is 2 weeks old for 2 hours. So sweet!!!!

Now I'm relaxing with my honey who stayed home from work today (messy roads earlier this AM).

Thank you for the continued prayers and well wishes....I wish I knew the right words to express how much they mean to me! Biopsy results due on Monday.

*pray*
*breathe*
*pray*
*exhale*
*repeat*

Michelle

Subject: RE: BS: 2010-Jan De-clutter & accountability ^^^
From: maire-aine
Date: 08 Jan 10 - 02:05 PM

Made a full batch of wholewheat-blueberry waffles, and froze all except one section, which I had for lunch. I realized, as I was putting stuff away, that I omitted the sugar, but I never even missed it.

m

Subject: RE: BS: 2010-Jan De-clutter & accountability ^^^
From: wysiwyg
Date: 08 Jan 10 - 12:49 PM

Here's hot news, VT-- REST COUNTS AS TAKING CARE OF YOURSELF. It's as important as activity.

So you could just set a goal on rest vs. activity and then brag about it here! :~)

What's the ideal amount of activity in your situation? A friend here with RA thinks about it in terms of minimum to be done even on bad days and maximum to stay below even on good days. She says that if the sticks to that and does not get too active when having a good day, she's been able to stay pretty level.

And hey, wasn't rest in that long adrenal recovery doc I sent you? :~) (Is it time to go get more B5 yet?)

~Susan

Subject: RE: BS: 2010-Jan De-clutter & accountability ^^^
From: VirginiaTam
Date: 08 Jan 10 - 12:30 PM

Well I have been reading the thread everyday, but not commenting because... well shucks I hain't been doing nuffin round the flat. And I hain't been particularly accountable re diet and exercise neither.

This weekend will be getting new laptop set up ad transferring stuff from old lappy to new. Then finish ironing. Then make some fairies.

I was working from home most of this week, so able to peek into Mudcat at all times of the day. Next week back in the office so will be catting only when I am home.

Subject: RE: BS: 2010-Jan De-clutter & accountability ^^^
From: maire-aine
Date: 08 Jan 10 - 11:19 AM

I finished running the snowblower, and it wasn't too bad. There's a little weak sunshine, so it looks quite pretty. Followed that up with a cup of amaretto-flavored coffee. The roads are being cleared up, so I may be able to make it out to the session tonight. No more snow in our forecast until Monday.

m

Subject: RE: BS: 2010-Jan De-clutter & accountability ^^^
From: AllisonA(Animaterra)
Date: 08 Jan 10 - 08:07 AM

Oh, SRS, it's so hard to deal with the cold when you aren't acclimated! Here in New England we grumble and have to adjust (usually in November) but by now it's mostly business as usual. DH and I are learning the limitations of this house- no, you can't heat the entire thing with 3 cords of wood (the architect had said 2 cords), yes, we still have time to install a furnace and yes, we should do just that.

I felt crummy all day yesterday and just kept a low profile; got plenty of sleep and woke feeling great (you know, how it's almost euphoria when you've felt rotten and feel WELL!). Today, perhaps, I'll tackle my "in box". Or perhaps I'll just plug away at the 12 songs I need to arrange for the upcoming Animaterra season...

Michelle, I'm late in sending my love and well-wishes, but believe me that they're strong and radiating your way.

Maire-anne, PM coming re FB

Kat, hooray for less pain!

WYS, you are an inspiration! Everytime you mention clearing out the inbox, etc. I think I mught just get to mine!

Allison

Subject: RE: BS: 2010-Jan De-clutter & accountability ^^^
From: wysiwyg
Date: 08 Jan 10 - 01:52 AM

(((SRS)))

(((dogs)))

~S~

Subject: RE: BS: 2010-Jan De-clutter & accountability ^^^
From: Stilly River Sage
Date: 08 Jan 10 - 12:50 AM

It is so cold and so dry here, it's difficult to do normal stuff. Want to take the trash out? Get dressed up to the eyeballs or freeze your nose off heading out into the driveway. I'm taking the dogs out every couple of hours--normally they're always out, and spend their nights and any cool times in the garage. It's supposed to get down to 12 overnight in North Texas. I'm headed for a soak in a really hot tub. Wouldn't a sauna be nice about now? After the bath, one last trip out for the dogs, then all to bed. Indoors. Warm and toasty.

SRS

Subject: RE: BS: 2010-Jan De-clutter & accountability ^^^
From: maire-aine
Date: 07 Jan 10 - 11:46 PM

It has been snowing all day-- the very fine, light stuff-- and not much wind, so there isn't a lot of drifting. I plan to wait until morning to run the snowblower. It looks like it will only be about 3 inches.

I have wasted most of the day playing in Facebook. I recently gave in and set up a profile, just because I was missing out on so many things. Friends would say "Oh, we put it on FB...."

Michelle, I hope you get the best news possible. I have waited out the results of a biopsy myself.

Maryanne

Subject: RE: BS: 2010-Jan De-clutter & accountability ^^^
From: wysiwyg
Date: 07 Jan 10 - 10:18 PM

OK..... processing...... more info via PM is welcome. But I think I see enough of the sequence for the prayer-side, and I think that's all I need to know?

~S~

Subject: RE: BS: 2010-Jan De-clutter & accountability ^^^
From: LilyFestre
Date: 07 Jan 10 - 06:56 PM

Pathology report due Monday or Tuesday. Surgery on the 15th which is the following Friday. The results of the biopsy will determine if extra parts need to come out. I don't know. I think that's how it goes. They won't know the pathology of the cyst until it's out. Today was for the uterus.



Michelle

Subject: RE: BS: 2010-Jan De-clutter & accountability ^^^
From: wysiwyg
Date: 07 Jan 10 - 06:51 PM

LF--

Pls confirm/modify: Results from today's biopsy next week, then surgery the 15th, then path report after surgery?

Wanna keep it straight.

~Susan

Subject: RE: BS: 2010-Jan De-clutter & accountability ^^^
From: Stilly River Sage
Date: 07 Jan 10 - 06:16 PM

Michelle, from that cat's point of view, you're making life very pleasant! A recliner, a blanket, and a warm body is what many cats crave (mine do!)

The dogs have been in and out all day, but now that the sun is going down, they'll be in more. They are house broken, but they're not accustomed to having to wait long periods of time between trips out (though I think once they're in for the night they usually stay in, so they go 8 - 10 hours then). It is bitterly cold out, and my pit bull loves her fleece jacket. Cinnamon and Poppy took a quick turn around the yard this afternoon.

SRS

Subject: RE: BS: 2010-Jan De-clutter & accountability ^^^
From: LilyFestre
Date: 07 Jan 10 - 06:05 PM

Accountability means taking care of myself and that's what I did today. I didn't want to do it. I cried half the way there but I did it: Blood work, EKG, anesthesologist talk, chest x-ray, mamogram and the endometrial biopsy.

The people were phenominal....every single one of them. They helped me breath through the biopsy, talked me through everything. Kinda funny...I was breathing deeply in and out of my nose....as we do in yoga...they had to remind me to open my mouth to let the air out...never thought of it. Yoga is indeed part of my being.

Weighed in at WW too...down another 14.6 pounds. NOT THE WAY TO DO IT...but ok.

I am now going to crash in my recliner with one of my favorite blankets and Jack, my snuggle kitty.

I
am
tired.

Much love to you all and many thanks for prayers and encouragement....surgery is a week from tomorrow...should find out biopsy results on Monday or Tuesday.

Michelle

Subject: RE: BS: 2010-Jan De-clutter & accountability ^^^
From: wysiwyg
Date: 07 Jan 10 - 05:55 PM

Correx, duh:

Clearning office in prep for laying a huge rug. Clean + Clear appears to equal "Clearn."

I devoted some time to putting some Maxine pages ON a small, empty box (like decoupage but with temp tape).

~S~

Subject: RE: BS: 2010-Jan De-clutter & accountability ^^^
From: wysiwyg
Date: 07 Jan 10 - 03:56 PM

VT, I just rewarded my labors by printing and laminating the beautiful-but-strong fairy (angel) wings from one of your posted photos. It will go on my outbox when the carpet laying fun is over and I get my office back. It's on the very top of my inbox, now, where it will be such a nice "surprise" to come back to! I'll think of our friendship every time I look at it, and when think about what I am sending out into the world from this office.

~Susan

Subject: RE: BS: 2010-Jan De-clutter & accountability ^^^
From: wysiwyg
Date: 07 Jan 10 - 02:53 PM

Clearning office in prep for laying a huge rug. Found a lot of quick to-do's that I could knock out, which reduced the feeling that office tasks were getting away from me.

I devoted some time to putting some Maxine pages in a small, empty box for a nice reminder to take things "light," AND hold some pesky office supplies I'd rather not look at.

I found the wedding invite Hardi and I'd sent to folks 17 years ago, with the couples' mission statement we'd written, and framed that in the frame I also found in the pile. It included the work I'm doing now, from the day we met. I set it by my visitors' chair.

The rest of the pesky/undone "important" stuff fit neatly in my very-shallow inbox. I'll never use a deep one, again! :~)

I found a large box suitable as an OUTbox, and my printer ink arrived today-- I can print VTs wings now!!! RIGHT now!

~S~

Subject: RE: BS: 2010-Jan De-clutter & accountability ^^^
From: Stilly River Sage
Date: 07 Jan 10 - 12:57 PM

Michelle, good luck with that. I've had a few biopsies myself, but my method is to focus on some other part of the body where nothing is wrong and try to let the difficult stuff happen with as little stress from me as possible. The breathe and relax bit that kat mentioned. The Lamaze approach to biopsy. ;-D

Damned cold out there today, though it is very sunny. You can see the light sparkle off of all of the ice on the ground from the rain we had right before it froze. The dogs are in again for a while, but they do like to go out and run around periodically. The cat is tucked away in my daughter's room with a padded window seat and a fuzzy cat bed on top of her bed. It keeps him out of the path of the dogs (who do not get along well with him). I may go visit him at lunch, give him a cuddle and take a little cat nap (so to speak . . .)

I put the trash out in a bag this morning instead of in the usual metal can. One less thing to have to do outside this morning, and giving the trash guys a cold metal can to pick up makes their day just a little chillier. I passed the truck as I drove home this morning and they were in mittens and ski masks and breathing steam.

Writing today. Clearing up work, I hope.

SRS

Subject: RE: BS: 2010-Jan De-clutter & accountability ^^^
From: katlaughing
Date: 06 Jan 10 - 11:30 PM

Hi,maevedarlin'...so good to see you here. Thanks for checking in. You are missed.

I guess I did some body decluttering, too. I went to Doc Jeri for OMT, today. She is really pleased at how well my lower legs and feet are doing. I've been having real problems with them since the pneumonia etc. We've finally turned a corner on that front, too. Now, I cna do a lot more without pain!

Michelle, we are here for you. Remember to breathe and try to relax.

Animaterra, I LOVE your party idea!

Subject: RE: BS: 2010-Jan De-clutter & accountability ^^^
From: wysiwyg
Date: 06 Jan 10 - 10:27 PM

Listen up. If it hurts when they do it. you go right ahead and scream your head off. It helps.

~Veteran of many endo biopsies

Subject: RE: BS: 2010-Jan De-clutter & accountability ^^^
From: LilyFestre
Date: 06 Jan 10 - 10:22 PM

I have an endometrial biopsy tomorrow at 1:00......any and all prayers and good thoughts would be most appreciated.

XOXOXOOX

Michelle

Subject: RE: BS: 2010-Jan De-clutter & accountability ^^^
From: AllisonA(Animaterra)
Date: 06 Jan 10 - 09:28 PM

Oh! I get it!

Subject: RE: BS: 2010-Jan De-clutter & accountability ^^^
From: wysiwyg
Date: 06 Jan 10 - 08:21 PM

YMMV = your mileage may vary

~S~

Subject: RE: BS: 2010-Jan De-clutter & accountability ^^^
From: AllisonA(Animaterra)
Date: 06 Jan 10 - 07:46 PM

YMMV?? I do not understand.

But I do understand about the motivation to move forward when pulled there, even when not sure where "there" is.

And SRS, I second WYSYs wise words- my 20-somethings had to endure hour upon interminable hour of my words of wisdom in the car, and now they, like WYWY's, are capable thinkers and doers.

No de-cluttering of house today. Some de-cluttering of mind, but only just a bit. But I did get to the gym, where I have been working on building my "core strength" after throwing my back out in early Dec. I was happy to be able to hold my "plank" position on my elbows for much longer than before! So I guess I'm de-cluttering my body, a bit, too!

Subject: RE: BS: 2010-Jan De-clutter & accountability ^^^
From: maeve
Date: 06 Jan 10 - 04:41 PM

Happy New Year, y'all. I do check on you from time to time, as possible. Be healthy and happy.

maeve

Subject: RE: BS: 2010-Jan De-clutter & accountability ^^^
From: wysiwyg
Date: 06 Jan 10 - 11:54 AM

That is all going to pay off BIGTIME, SRS. We have a coupla kids now long past that age, and it's been amazing how their ability to do that stuff serves them in life.

For one thing, it makes them the go-to person for their friends, and from that place they can actually help their friends in a million ways-- compare this to one kid who had only just learned to feel comfortable in the kitchen when he moved out, but serving his dad a steak dinner at Navy grad-time, WITH "vegetable matter" (OK, cold out of a can but it was THERE and he had actually bought it because he liked it).

Goodonya!

~S~

Subject: RE: BS: 2010-Jan De-clutter & accountability ^^^
From: Stilly River Sage
Date: 06 Jan 10 - 11:34 AM

Last night's laundry episode was wonderful--it's not a big deal in the scheme of things, but it means that my son, who always knows when he's running short of stuff anyway, now has more control over his wardrobe. I usually did the asking "do you need pants or shirts" before deciding to do laundry, but now we can skip that and he can do laundry when he knows he needs it. One tissue ended up left in a pocket, but it didn't cause a snow day in the dryer. :)

This morning I told him a story on the drive to school. About being prepared for things like weather events (we're due 2-3 days of very cold weather, it hasn't been this cold in many years). I described the "10 essentials" of mountain climbing as identified by the Mountaineers (I was in the Everett, WA, branch), where I took a climbing course, then taught it for several years. I told him about some of the folks I worked with, but then wrapped it up with thinking my way through my pickup as we were driving. I had almost all of them with me at that point, because I've incorporated them into what I consider reasonable gear for general preparedness at any time. Who knows if the story sinks in, but he listened with interest, didn't nod off to sleep for the 20 minute drive. I want him to think about how to be prepared to go places or do things, work out a mental checklist (interesting, they've been talking about a book this week about medical checklists. That author is on Diane Rehm right now).   

SRS

Subject: The Combination Lock
From: wysiwyg
Date: 06 Jan 10 - 10:12 AM

Allison,

YMMV, but....

One way my slowing down became feasible was that, while using the personal-growth tools we've discussed, I spotted a huge insight one day that gave me a structure within which to understand my "hard-wiring." It was a metaphor so apt that it stopped me dead in my tracks to LOOK at it, walk around it on all sides, look inside it, etc.

What I "saw" in this mettafer was the inside of a combination-lock. Tumblers of many sizes and shapes, spinning. Spinning until they lined up. Then, when lined up, the satisfying, quiet "tunck" of an unlocked lock in perfect alignment. (I'm the tumblers.)

It was a pretty enough and useful mettafer, but looking closer I could see that the tumblers were changing as they spun. ("Huh? What's up with THAT?" "Look closer...." So I did.)


As I looked at this image, I could see God stretching me inside that now-open lock until I no longer fit the sides of the lock perfectly... I saw myself growing (and spinning as I grew), till I'd get to the next lock I was being grown to fit.

Then, TUNCK, and another period unlocking THAT lock, and another period of outgrowinbg it, spinning to the next.... etc.

===

So obviously there are questions there such as, who is spinning the tumblers.

Who is directing where I spin off to, next.

How is the unlocking mechanism maintained.

How to support the growth more intentionally.

And so forth. (Those questions are still coming.)

====

But as soon as I had the metaphor, I had a paradigm from which to encourage the slowing down, and a near-complete release of defensiveness in response to folks who do not understand any of that, about me, and who are usually several steps behind me because I keep going forward just when they think they have a handle on whatever the LAST big change in me might have been.

So I gave up on being understood. If I have to choose between being understood and continuing to grow-- I choose the latter, so I have to be willing to give up the former. I mean that's just logical. Do I want to go here..... or there....?

I'm Called to go There.

From that it's much easier to prioritize, say Yes or No with the right (most effective) attitude, and compassion for those who are not like myself but have to deal with me during any of it. :~)

===

These declut threads have been a huge help because it's the first time in many years there's been a place and space (in practical terms) to look at my own stuff instead of someone else's stuff, or being distracted off my own stuff because their stuff is getting in the way of helping me look at my own stuff.

~Susan

Subject: RE: BS: 2010-Jan De-clutter & accountability ^^^
From: AllisonA(Animaterra)
Date: 06 Jan 10 - 08:11 AM

I'm noticing how extremely well my confusions sort themselves out when I stick to the basics. While I DO them, my mind keeps pointing me in the right direction...I've learned the trick of HOW to "slow down."

And here I am, enjoying what I see and nodding companionable sympathy and approval!

I did a successful purge yesterday AND a good deed as well- my sister-in-law loves to "gift" us at Christmas with loads of little, cheap, er, useless crap. Now that the 12 days are over I'm ready to take down the tree and so on (well, not really ready but aware that soon it will have to happen!).
Also, the "advisory circle" aka Board of my chorus has been having some uncharacteristic difficulty amongst themselves- squabbling, competing for my approval- silly stuff, that just needed to be nipped in the bud. So last night we had a potluck "retreat" at my house (they were all excited to see it). And I wrapped all the SIL gifts up in big boxes, re-using the giftwrap that hadn't yet made it to the recycling center. And we had a "Yankee Swap" which I introduced by giving the Rules: Have Fun, Laugh, Give a Compliment, Keep it Positive, and All of the Gifts Must Leave My House By The End of the Evening.
Then we drew numbers, and each person in order got to choose and open the gifts. She could keep it, give it away, or swap with another person, but if she got rid or swapped, she had to give a compliment to the person she was dealing with.
Lots of laughter, everyone had fun- and all the gifts disappeared! And I ended up with the one thing I thought was a keeper- a perpetual birthday calendar, which will end up on the "office" wall once I have an office, and won't take up much space in the meantime.

SRS, do check the link. There won't be updates for awhile yet. We're waiting for the guy who is supposed to finish the siding (my DH calls him "The Messiah- his coming is promised but never fulfilled"- very funny, dear.) . And we have to dig through the snow to get at the 2 x 4s to frame the upstairs- so that may be awhile yet- but the downstairs is reasonably tidy. But I do miss having a desk, file cabinet, and shelves for my stuff!

Subject: RE: BS: 2010-Jan De-clutter & accountability ^^^
From: VirginiaTam
Date: 06 Jan 10 - 07:39 AM

I got work... which is kewl. As I am capable of working but not sitting at desk in cold office, I asked line manager if she had anything I could work on at home. And she did, so now I don't have to report a sick day, which always worries me. Due to RA, feel I have too many non working days. we are trying to get me VPN so I can work from home on very bad days like today.

Sorry you have cold LtS. No playing in the snow for you today.

Subject: RE: BS: 2010-Jan De-clutter & accountability ^^^
From: Liz the Squeak
Date: 06 Jan 10 - 05:16 AM

I god a cowd... I'b dot goig to do anthig but slob in bed.

LTS

Subject: RE: BS: 2010-Jan De-clutter & accountability ^^^
From: VirginiaTam
Date: 06 Jan 10 - 01:15 AM

I'm finally at a puder whose monitor does your wings justice.

Wings, Susan? Do you mean the fairies? If so, When I get some more made I would like to start posting out to fellow declutterers.

Will be staying home today. I have been up most of the night with joint pain. I guess the snow fall has done it to me. As my right hand is particularly bad I won't be making fairies. But I might sort out bits into fairy making kits for MBSLYNNE - (see 13 year old with leukaemia thread). Hil brought me some headdresses back from US so those too will go to LYNNE.

I am off to send email to line manager now.

Subject: RE: BS: 2010-Jan De-clutter & accountability ^^^
From: Stilly River Sage
Date: 06 Jan 10 - 12:51 AM

WHoo hooo! My son did a load of laundry tonight! He looked at his supply of clothes based upon the thing he runs out of soonest (shirts), and washed dark stuff. He said he needed dark shirts, so I told him to do all of the dark laundry, including checking the pockets. Now it's all in the dryer.

I have a closet that is a mess; I know you all know what kind of challenge this is. This is the one in my office and has a mix of camping gear, scholarly research papers, and holiday ornament storage, along with some extra day packs, cloth shopping bags and rolling soft luggage. Shelves on two sides are built in, and there is a heavy-duty wire storage rack on the back wall. I have a plug built into this space and had a counter-height shelf put in so I can put my photocopier or other equipment there.

I brought in the step ladder and rearranged some of boxes (with holiday decorations) stored on upper shelves, and repacked some of the ornaments that were used this year. I still have to bring in the outdoor lights, but most of the rest of it is up and out of the way. I'll see if there is anything else I can store on those shelves while I'm at it.

I have a cuppa hot herbal tea now, and I think I can relax with the dogs outside tonight. Only down to about 30, so their area will be plenty warm with their heater. But in the next couple of days it will be down to 20 or lower, so they'll be back in. That 10-12 degrees makes a huge difference.

SRS

Subject: RE: BS: 2010-Jan De-clutter & accountability ^^^
From: wysiwyg
Date: 05 Jan 10 - 02:44 PM

VT, remember when I was think-posting about an emblem/basket-type for my OUT basket? I'm finally at a puder whose monitor does your wings justice. Hope it's OK to print the one I liked best, of your wings, because it's the perfect image and the perfect reminder of what my real work is all about.

BTW lady, them wings look STRONG, to me. :~)


And Animaterra, remember that stuff I asked you to partner/PM with me on? It will all be right here in the thread from now on, in batches that you may be able to keep up with-- I've learned the trick of HOW to "slow down." The rest-- it's just about obsolete now, because I was still in speed mode when I sent it. :~)

~Susan

Subject: RE: BS: 2010-Jan De-clutter & accountability ^^^
From: mouldy
Date: 05 Jan 10 - 02:44 PM

Well we all (son in law as well) went to a pub about 3 miles away for lunch - and I felt stuffed half the afternoon! I'm sure it'll all show on the scales next week!

I did make a start on the study, and started sifting through some of the random bits of old staplers etc that were left from Ian's office stuff. Why on earth I thought I needed 4 staplers, 2 desk calculators, a slide-rule and the like, I'll never know! I don't even know how to use a slide-rule! The plan is to do away with the big desk. I have filled a small basket with all the cableage from camera/camcorder/ipod etc.

However I gave up after an hour or so, and I'm intending to have a good session on it tomorrow, as I have nothing else planned.

Andrea

Subject: RE: BS: 2010-Jan De-clutter & accountability ^^^
From: Stilly River Sage
Date: 05 Jan 10 - 01:02 PM

I'm working my way through the diet this week with some non-diet meals (I had a ham sandwich for lunch just now) because I don't want to waste this food from over the break, but I am keeping the portions modest.

It's warming up, and it is a bright day, so I may be able to take down some lights from plants out front later. I unplugged everything and moved the electrical cords from the lawn yesterday. The dogs enjoyed coming in and wanted to stay in, but now they're out doing their usual thing--sleeping in the sun. Tough life. Amazing how much heat they can collect when they lie in just the right spots even on a cold day.

Virginia, my most-heavily-used key on the keyboard is the "backspace" button. I'm always correcting typos. Welcome to my world!

SRS

Subject: RE: BS: 2010-Jan De-clutter & accountability ^^^
From: wysiwyg
Date: 05 Jan 10 - 12:47 PM

.... where I find that a teensy job needs to be done which I have ALL the needed tools already HERE (done!), and sugar-free YUMMY hot chocolate to warm me up (done!), too!

And MY work, waiting for me to get back to it.

I think of our upstairs now not as an insurmountable set of stairs, but a second ranch-house (portable classroom) on top of the other (dnstrs) one!

~Susan

Subject: RE: BS: 2010-Jan De-clutter & accountability ^^^
From: wysiwyg
Date: 05 Jan 10 - 12:31 PM

BUT I have been enjoying how THIS iteration of my worklife is different, just because of the self-care and house-care routines that have become part of my gray-haired life. I LIKE GOING SLOWER, for the first time in my life I think things have a good chance of STAYING in balance instead of the rushrush/crashcrash cycle of earlier times. Time to reflect and consider others' viewpoints (firstly God's) are built in to this rewiring jobbie!

In that vein, I'm noticing how extremely well my confusions sort themselves out when I stick to the basics. While I DO them, my mind keeps pointing me in the right direction.

By last night, for instance, my "gut" was so out of whack (literally) that I had to pay attention to the growing un-ease the next few days' schedule seemed to be causing. Upon waking, the inner voice finally said loudly but calmly, "S...T...A...Y... H...O...M...E... please!"

And the MOMENT I implenented that, the loveliest day began to unfold.


It feels like stolen time, but really it was mine all along, and some of it includes decluts now possible in the office (a lovely creative profusion in there is now becoming chaotically upsetting)-- to be able to put down the warm rug earmarked for it! All the fixings for lunch are up there, and Sadie wants to play office today, and......

~Susan

Subject: RE: BS: 2010-Jan De-clutter & accountability ^^^
From: maire-aine
Date: 05 Jan 10 - 09:18 AM

Happy Birthday, Andrea.

M

Subject: RE: BS: 2010-Jan De-clutter & accountability ^^^
From: Catherine Jayne
Date: 05 Jan 10 - 08:33 AM

Yep It is taking up space in my front room! The kids love it so I don't mind! Thank you Liz!.....glad Phoebe can get to her wardrobe now!!LOL!!

Subject: RE: BS: 2010-Jan De-clutter & accountability ^^^
From: Liz the Squeak
Date: 05 Jan 10 - 08:24 AM

HAve a good birthday Andrea - you deserve it!

I have reached a full stop... I did sort one or two boxes, but nothing major. I did declutter the pond of some duckweed, courtesy of the ice it has on it, but it was so cold it's started the cuts on my fingers bleeding, so I'm back in the warm and preparing to declutter a couple more boxes... so I really should get back to it...

Oh, we did declutter an egg-shaped, revolving, children's chair from Limpit's room, now it's cluttering up someone else's house, isn't it Catherine! It's being loved and used as a chair and not a clothes horse which is the important thing.

LTS